My grandson, Frank Ball Jr. and I made the run to Sturgis with a Kendon two-bike trailer, our 1928 Shovelhead and the 5-Ball Racing Crazy Horse powered mascot bike. Both quirky, flat-side tank bikes. We jammed out and rode around the rally and had a blast.

Of course, he got the bug and had to make the run on his own terms in 2021. The changing times have been enormous. When I started coming to Sturgis it was about 50/50 between electric starts and kickers. The last couple of years Frankie rode a Pro Street styled FXR with a CCE glide front end I built, and Bob T.’s FXRP, but he was having the engine upgraded by Bennett’s Performance and Eric pulled a cylinder stud and we were on the hunt for a new set of cases. S&S came to the rescue with the help of Jason Mook at Deadwood Custom Cycles



Frankie had a few years under his belt with the evils of custom motorcycles, breakdowns and hard-to-find components. Plus, his dad recently bought a late model Road Glide and natch, wanted his son to be riding a similar bike.


Bada Bing, Frankie stumbled into Bartels, where Deb Black handles our 5-Ball Leather line. He plunked down $32,000 and rode out on a new Midnight Crimson Road Glide, which was blacked out. “Family seems to be moving away,” Frankie said. “I needed something reliable for long distance runs.”

That was his jab, since his dad moved to Austin, Texas recently, and I peeled out of California for the Badlands.

Rally time approached and Frank started checking his run options. He could ride with his brother, Charlie, the Barber, to Vegas and Salt Lake and across Wyoming on the 40 and then north and east into the Badlands.

He also met up with a group heading into Montana and then Yellowstone, sort of the long scenic way. But then he hooked up with Jeff Holt, the V-Twin Visionary with a shop in Phoenix. Jeff had a plan to ride the million-dollar highway out of the desert, into Wyoming and onto Deadwood, where they would all crash at the 5-Ball Headquarters in Deadwood.



There was an additional benefit to riding with the Visionary, who was scheduled to produced bike shows for Harley-Davidson. Jeff’s Phoenix based shop was available to install and new pipe on his Glide.

“He had a bunch of aftermarket stuff at his shop to throw on my Road Glide,” Frankie said. “Jeff was ready and experienced at installing the Sawicki, stainless, two-into-one bagger exhaust system.”



Charlie and Frank had a plan to peel out of Los Angeles before the crack of dawn. They could hardly sleep after packing, checking, packing, checking and packing again.

The coast to Phoenix would blister and LA traffic was always a challenge. They rose with a start at 3:00 a.m., suited up and hit the road by 4:00 a.m. They jammed in the dark from homeless encampment Venice to interstate 10 and across downtown Los Angeles on the escape route to Palm Springs where commuter traffic diminished and they could push their speeds and ramble around lumbering semi-trucks taking goods all across the country.



Outside Palm Springs Charlie signaled for a gas stop. The sun began to crest the mountain pass leading into 74 Palms, California where we have a brother who lives in a rusting ’59 Cadillac shell. They gassed up but recently learned of unrelenting traffic snarls leading into the Phoenix metropolis. They had to fill-up, pay, down a protein bar, share a coffee and hit the road.

The Bandit recommendations allowed them to dodge morning traffic as the sun warmed the asphalt desert streets. Frankie was excited. Everything went as planned, but Phoenix was hot. Their late model bikes carried them effortlessly to Jeff’s shop and they hung out for an hour before the Visionary arrived.



It was breakfast burrito time as they checked out the Super clean shop. Three lifts stood ready on Jeff’s side of the shop. They shared mechanics with Jeff and FXR manufacturing.

Maggie has an office. The industrial park was surrounded by galvanized chain link fence, sand and broke down cars.



The Collective of Phoenix shop shared a building with FXR Division, aftermarket performance shop, building exhaust and T-Bars. They also build super-strong brackets for Thunderheaders.


They went to work installing the two-into-one Sawicki Performance Pipe, Pro One running boards, LED headlights and bullets in the front and rear. Heading to Dyno-Tune, the Visionary noted that Harley changed the mapping on the 2021 models and no one had the software needed to dyno his new bagger. They had an aftermarket air cleaner, but he held off. “Can’t dyno-tune your bike,” said Jeff. “If you do it will void your warranty.”



The highly trained mechanic, Danny, Motorwitch, Ray who worked at Bartels previously took care of everything.

He’s also turns 114-inch M8s into 129 road dragons. Shops were cool and nice. Outside it blistered at 110 degrees.

They had some hand guards he wanted but they wouldn’t fit a ‘21. Otherwise, everything bolted up. They reach out to Zipper’s for help with mapping.

Everything went smooth except the second bracket nut to the Sawicki, which bolted to transmission. Sawicki didn’t ship with square nuts to fit inside the bracket, made it impossible to attach both mounting bolts.



Here’s the official data from Sawicki

**NEW** 2-into-1 Bagger Mid-Length Pipe

Our Bagger Midlength is now available, off the shelf, ready to ship TODAY!

Features:
Designed with Performance in mind. For a deadly look and great sound.
Same classic stepped performance headers from our best-selling Bagger Shorty pipe
Mandrel Bent Stainless Steel Tubing, 1-3/4″ primary to 2″ step to allow maximum transfer
Mid-length muffler terminates midway beneath standard bags
Hand Formed Merge Collector allows precise flow performance.
All TIG welds performed by hand in our Charlotte, NC manufacturing facility

Finish Options:
Brushed Stainless Steel
Black ceramic coated Stainless Steel
End Cap Options:
Billet end cap allows you to tune the sound for your liking, by adding or removing packing
Sealed End Cap “Cannon” is a fully welded stainless end cap



Badge:
All sealed-end Cannon pipes come standard with a badge on the front muffler cone

Other Details and Fitment Notes:
Accepts 18mm o2 Sensors for aftermarket tuners or 12mm Sensors with reducers
Must use flat mesh race style exhaust gaskets (not included)
Flanges not included
O2 sensor lengths may vary by year; extensions may be required
pre-’08 bagger models will require spacers at the mounting bracket

1. Remove existing exhaust, all existing aftermarket and factory exhaust brackets. **On baggers you will need to remove the Right-side floorboard to adjust the pipe into the correct position**

2. Remove factory exhaust gaskets. Replace with Part# 17048-98, Screamin’ Eagle Performance Exhaust Gasket kit. *These are required and provide a correct fit and ensure no gasket material blocking the port*

3. Remove transmission side cover (if your model has this cover). Remove two lower transmission housing bolts.

4. Install the mounting bracket to the transmission housing using the factory hardware. Torque to 13-16 ft-lbs. (Ensure the bracket is not cocked or caught on anything, it should be flat on the transmission housing) Make sure any factory standoffs are removed.

5. Move factory exhaust flanges and retainers to new exhaust system. *If installing a Ceramic Black pipe, leave protective film on the exhaust so it does not get scratched*

6. Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the threads of the oxygen sensors and install them into the new head pipe. **18mm to 12mm oxygen sensor adapter may be required on some models.** All of our Pipes run 18mm O2 bungs so you can run an auto tune system with Wideband o2 sensors.

7. Using stock flange nuts, carefully install the header assemblies onto the motorcycle. *Do NOT tighten, just start them a turn or two.*

8. Slip the collector onto the headers. You may have to use a soft/rubber mallet on the headers to slide them into the collector.

9. Position the muffler and headers so that it clears all points of the motor, frame and controls. **Remember, this is a 3-part system so it will require some adjusting to make everything line up**

10. Start the bracket hardware and snug down *Do not tighten them yet*

11. Check fitment and clearance around all critical areas; this is your opportunity to adjust the system by twisting and rotating.

12. From back to front, tighten down the exhaust system, ensuring that nothing moves as you go. (We question this procedure.  All other exhaust systems for rubber-mount bikes call for tightening from front to back. You don’t want to wedge the exhaust system against a vibrating engine. Could cause cracks.)

13. Install supplied exhaust springs once everything is tight.

14. Check all fasteners, fitment, and wiring. This is a great opportunity to make sure everything is clearing how it should.

15. Good practice with Raw stainless pipes is to get all the oils from your hands off before starting up so that it does not stain. You don’t need to go crazy! Acetone or something similar with a shop towel works great for this.

16. Start the bike and allow it to idle until the pipe is hot. Allow the pipe to completely cool. This will ensure that the coating is completely set up on black pipes and it will temper raw brushed pipes, so they keep that nice flashy stainless color!

17. You’re done! Go forth and disturb the peace!



Important Notes:

– A stainless steel pipe is a great indication of how your bike is running. A pipe that turns black or is unreasonably hot is an indication there is a tuning issue.

– We often get asked what to do if you burn something onto a Raw pipe. The best solution is to brush the affected area until it is free from whatever is stuck to it. We use RED Scotchbrite pads here. Go perpendicular with the grain of the pipe, not lengthwise.

This is a great way to renew the finish of a well-used pipe; Stainless can always look brand new with enough elbow grease!



FAQS


Do your pipes have O2 Bungs?

Yes!! All our pipes have 18mm bungs in them, so you can use aftermarket wideband sensors or factory sensors. If your bike came from the factory with 12mm sensors, you will need a 12mm-18mm Sensor adapter. If your bike doesn’t have O2 sensors you will need a 18mm sensor plug. you can request Custom pipes without sensor bungs if you so prefer

Does your pipe come with 12mm-18mm adapters?

No. You will need to get 12-18mm adapters from your local dealer if you are running the small style sensors.

What kind of performance gains?

Our Exhaust systems will provide performance gains across the RPM Range. The results will vary based on Displacement, Compression and General Performance modifications done to the motor. Please refer to our Facebook/Instagram for dyno Graphs we post.

Do your systems include exhaust port gaskets?

No, we suggest Screaming Eagle Exhaust Gaskets from your local Harley Davidson dealer.

Can I repack my muffler?

Mufflers with our removable endcap can be repacked to your liking with a variety of packing. they come packed with Stainless steel wool, but fiberglass and other options work very well and change the tone of the pipe.

Our Sealed cap / Slash Cut mufflers are non-Serviceable .

Do you make custom exhaust systems?

Yes! Contact us at admin@sawickispeedshop.com for all custom inquires

What if my pipe breaks?

We handle warranty based on a case-by-case basis. Unless the pipe is obviously broken from a crash/hit/dragged, then we will happily issue you a Warranty repair or replacement if it is within the first year (sometimes longer even). All warranty or repairs require the item in question to be sent back to Sawicki Speed Shop before a replacement/repair is sent out. please see

Where can I get spare parts?!

Almost everything is available under the “parts” section of the store. If you don’t see what you’re after shoot us an email.


Questions not answered here?

Feel free to email us at admin@sawickispeedshop.com with any questions we didn’t cover here

Much of the above, which was well thought out, will apply to almost any system.



They left the shop and rode to the Hotel. It was time to relax at a Phoenix Italian joint with Jeff and his magnificent and hardworking wife. After a good night’s sleep, they jumped out of the sack and met Jeff at 7:00 for breakfast and rode to Payson, Arizona, an hour away, at a cooling elevation of 5000 feet and met up with two other guys. One came from Oklahoma on a Road King. He had a 129-inch M8. It ripped. Fastest bike in the pack, but he took it easy, maybe out of respect for the other riders and the chase vehicle.

The other guy, Mark, was from Payson, with a population of 15,000. Frank tattooed him in Austin, Texas. Funny guy on a white Road Glide. Apes. He has a Shovelhead Chopper back home.



Jetted out through Navajo Nation and ran into a spiritual Indian biker, who gave them pins and wished them a safe trip. “We were in New Mexico briefly then into Colorado to Durango and met up with folks from Durango, H-D,” Frankie said. “We met with their Social Media girl at a famous barbecue place in Durango around the corner from the dealership.”


Next morning, they rode through Durango and over the winding Coal Bank pass on the San Juan Skyway with the Million Dollar Highway connecting Silverton and then into Ouray. Frankie felt good and strong as his bike crested the 10,000-foot pass and descended into the town of just over 500.



“Some in the pack were burnt out,” Frank said, “so we stayed in a small town. We didn’t make it that far but crashed out and hit it early.”

“Everything was running good,” Frank added. “The glide sounded like a real Harley, running strong.” In Montrose they headed East toward Gunnison and Salida. As they hit the road north out of Salida toward Wyoming, Charlie got crossed up at one of the many junctions outside Denver. The brother may have been looking for a two-laner around Denver and into Wyoming. “I went back for Charlie,” Frank said. “Then we peeled to Denver, got gas and hit Highway 28 as quickly as possible to catch the pack in Cheyenne, 100 mph all the way.”



They didn’t hesitate or hang out in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where monsoon rains met them, but they barreled through the state and into the Badlands and ultimately Deadwood to the new Bikernet Nerve Center in the center of town. They could smell the girls’ perfumes and chili from the crest of the pass in Lead, South Dakota. They followed lingering smells wafting through the canyon and the buzzing glow of the intergalactic headquarters as it generated 17 million watts of supreme chopper knowledge through the World Wide Web via staff members at all corners of the globe. It’s a little terrifying to watch a 100-year-old home glow against the hillside in the historic presidential district, but they didn’t hesitate to keep rolling.

“We were excited to get there,” Frankie said. They arrived on Thursday and by Saturday, refreshed they rolled to Legends Suspension on Whitewood Road on the outskirts of Sturgis. Speaking of high energy, Sturgis is the supreme being of motorcycle towns. Every year more brothers and sister move to the epicenter of the Chopper Nation. The sidewalks rumble. Buildings are made of old exhaust pipes and steel sculptures line Main Street. There are 400 bars, one motorcycle museum and two restaurants. Even the hardware store sells motorcycle parts.



The largest Indian Dealer in the World has three massive buildings on the edge of town. More and more motorcycle industry giants are moving to Sturgis just to feel the vibe 365 days of the year.



Legends did the same. They wanted a Road Glide to use for a tech for the V-Twin Instagram page. They chose Frank’s 2021 Glide to install front and rear suspension system. The Visionary set it up and here’s the straight scoop from the Legends World Headquarters on the edge of Motorcycle Nirvana.



I believe we installed our AXEO front cartridges and the 13-inch Revo-ARC Black Remote Reservoir system on Frank’s bike. Below are details on each of the products used.

The Legend REVO ARC (Adjustable Rebound & Compression) is available in Piggyback models for Dyna, FXR, and Sportster models and as Remote Reservoirs for all FL models.



The Legend REVO-ARC’s feature Adjustable Rebound & Compression damping and utilize Legend’s touring specific extended coil length. This creates a larger “sweet spot” without increasing overall shock length providing an improved, plush, yet performance ride quality featuring increased control, and resistance to bottoming out. Legend’s unique spring rate requires minimal pre-load adjustments between riders’ weights or loads. ACME course threaded body easily adjusts by hand, so no tools are required.

The Legend ARC provides optimum rebound and compression performance for any given rider weight, personal ride quality preference, or personal riding style. Seven position external adjuster knobs allow fine-tuning of compression and seven more adjustments fine-tune rebound. Light to heavy riders can fine-tune ride preference while aggressive to casual riding styles can tune to desired quality or personal preference.

The shocks feature 35mm billet aluminum monotube dampers, deflective disc damping valve stack, low friction sealing system and PTFE based sliding bearings allow stiction-free movement for improved performance and feel, balanced piston and base-valve designed specifically for motorcycle applications and include a Nitrogen gas bladder design allowing ultra-fast response. Easy installation and alignment are provided by spherical bearings on both top and bottom.

Made in the USA and backed by a lifetime warranty, Legend REVO ARC Remote Reservoir and Piggyback coil suspension systems are designed for optimum performance with any of Legend Suspensions’ AXEO high performance front cartridge kits.

Legend REVO ARC Piggyback and Remote Reservoir systems are available in 13” or 14” standard, or heavy-duty applications, with a Black Type III Hard Coat Anodize finish.



NOTE: FL Heavy Duty applications are recommended for 500lb. + rider and passenger total weight.

NOTE: DYNA, FXR, SPORTSTER: Heavy Duty application are recommended for 250lb.+ rider and passenger total weight. Also consider Heavy Duty if most of your riding is 2-UP, stunt riding, or aggressive riding style.



AXEO – Basic Overview

Our AXEO front end kits include two identically built cartridges with our unique design due to a floating piston that separates the oil filled damper chamber from a nitrogen chamber. This floating piston is essentially a load sensing component that allows for a nice comfortable ride while the suspension is traveling over normal road conditions (i.e., expansion joints, cracks, etc.) where you’re using the first couple inches of stroke.

In the situation where the fork travels into the third and fourth inches of travel due to high-speed cornering, hard braking or extreme road hazards (i.e., uneven bridge joints and railroad tracks, man hole covers, drain basins, etc.) the floating piston is engaged to provide the extra bottoming resistance. This is due to the velocity at which the fork is traveling and the fact that the damper piston cannot keep up with demand to flow oil through the piston and shim stack.

The difference in pressure forces the floating piston into the nitrogen chamber which compounds the pressure and reduces the bottoming effect. The other benefit to this is that the nitrogen pressure when compressed, assists the springs to return the front end back to the extended position, keeping the front wheel firmly planted on the road and the chassis back to the proper ride height. We have had resounding comments from customers that have installed the AXEO’s stating that they’ve never felt the front end of their bike feel so stable, secure and positive.

“First they replaced the rear suspension on a lift,” Frankie reported. “They took the bags off. It was easy except for mounting the adjustable reservoirs. They provided night and day suspension and handling over the stock system.” With the Legends system he could adjust for riding style, passenger or load. “It turns better and is cleaner and smoother the faster you go.”

Sturgis was once a wild party, and an escape from citizens, a showdown for clubs, the wild west for the last time. Over the years it calmed, became the highpoint of any biker’s year. It was the epicenter of the custom world with shows every day, celebrity builders, hot entertainment at night and open road rides to die for.



The bikes changed from stripped down choppers to full touring rides with high-tech electronics, massive bags and bling. The Visionary was hired by Harley-Davidson to produce a bagger show in Deadwood in Outlaw Square. Baggers rolled in from all over the country. They’ve become the lowered and metal flake ’59 Cadillacs of the motorcycle industry.

But recently they’ve challenged the factory. “Wild how baggers are done up like Dynas and FXRs,” Frankie said,” all performance and handling.” It’s up to the Visionary to market this movement through his vast social media marketplace.

Sturgis is shifting again to become the aftermarket marketplace center to meet the manufacturers and have custom or performance packages installed. It started years ago, when mechanics set up stations and discovered the money was in changing tires. Charlie had to wait several days and in line for several hours to have his thinning rear tire replaced. He stuck it out and got the job done.



True Track, designed by the late Will Phillips sets up for installations at only one event annually, and Ron kills it at the massive Black Hills H-D lot in Rapid City. It’s the only event he attends every year.

Now a brother can ride a stock bike to Sturgis and have it completely rebuilt in a week with products from any company in the country including S&S, Baker Drivetrain or…


There’s one aspect of riding to the Badlands, which hasn’t changed, and the granddaddy of the lot is the Buffalo Chip. Brothers and sisters come from all over the world to facilities like the chip, to pitch a tent, park a motorhome, or rent a cabin and party. The chip has all the facilities available from restaurants, state of the art concerts with major players, to shows, demonstrations, and you never need to leave the facility. Rod “Woody” Woodruff and his entire family run what will become the City of Buffalo Chip, like a fine-tuned clock.

In the early days, brothers were introduced to events encompassed in one location and cut off from the town to allow the party to rage without interference from the Man. That was a big deal in those days because the Man fucked with bikers constantly. The Chip took on that mantra. Once you rode through the tall gates, girls could be topless all day long and smoking a joint or revving straight pipes was cheered not frowned upon or ticketed. It was pure party 24/7.



One of Frankie’s other goals was to see and meet tattoo artists from all over the world. His missions included, jazzing up his dresser and checking what the tattoo wild west was up to.



Too soon the week dwindled, and folks started to peel for home, or maybe a ride through Yellowstone or the painted desert before heading home. “I felt like folks left early,” Frankie said.
Getting ready to leave the Badlands, Charlie broke his spark plug off in his rear head. He was bitching about his handlebar bushings. But Frank convinced him to leave them alone. So Charlie turned to replacing his spark plugs. They kept twisting on it and finally it left the threads in the head, bad news.

Bennett’s Performance upgraded his drivetrain and his bike contained tons of anxious torque and top end power. “He didn’t need to change his plugs,” Frank said.



This is a mystery to me. He didn’t just break off the ceramic top but took the nut with it leaving the threads in the head. I was up late consulting with the group as to the options before him. I was on Covid lockdown, so unable to help in the shop in Deadwood, but Jason Mook, from Deadwood Custom Cycles could, but he was going to shut his shop down for much needed break after the rally.

We made arrangements to deliver the bike to Jason’s shop for the repair. Ultimately Jason was forced to remove the head, remove the plug, check the threads and put it back together.



That wasn’t the only issue facing Charlie on the run back to the West Coast, and the story gets even better. But Charlie has a new love, so we won’t dwell on Strippers, disease, Vegas and delays.

Charlie followed Frankie and another rider in a rental car to Salt Lake where he lost his way. Frankie spent the night and the next morning his riding partner was gone and Charlie, well, I can’t go there.



Frank peeled onto Interstate 15 south and rolled into the Mandalay Bay resort for shower and an overnight rest. Charlie arrived late, but he had the Covid, so Frank peeled out at the crack of dawn to meet up with his Tattooing partner the magnificent Em. 

With state-of-the-art technology, GPS and communications he could navigate off the interstate to Amboy, through the desert and meet her in the parking lot of the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs. At 28, this was his first solo ride, his first Sturgis run and still the glowing smile on Em’s lovely face made his day.



He’s already planning for Sturgis ’22.

Sidebar: Shortly after arriving back in Venice he noticed a problem with the Sawicky pipe but fixed it with exhaust gasket tape and a hose clamp until a new system arrived. Then he rode to San Francisco for a tattoo convention and broke the pipe bracket, had it welded at a shop, and it was cracking again when he rolled back into LA. He’s looking for another two-into-one system. What do you recommend?

Batteries
Some amusing lagniappe with some interesting information on the subject.

See Also: https://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2021/12/breaking_the_maritime_shipping_impasse.html

Bassani Exhaust, Legends Suspension, and V&H Fuelpak
by Johnny White

My 2016 Road Glide Ultra FLTRU has been a reliable ride that has endured 70,000 miles without any major issues.

One of the first things a guy wants to change is the sound – as a new Harley sounds great until you hear it next to one with a tuned exhaust system.

The change now vs. days of old is it’s no longer change your pipes and re-jet the carb.

Now, with electronic fuel injection, ‘void warranty’ and emission controls, it can seem a bit daunting if you don’t know where to look.

Well, it’s easier today than most realize and it doesn’t require a ton of time, knowledge, or money … well, it does require some money.

CLICK HERE To Read this Detailed Tech Article only on Bikernet.com

Join the Cantina for more – CLICK to Subscribe Now !!!

by Misled

In 2005 John “Rogue” Herlihy was inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the Freedom Fighter section of the HOF which is for individuals who fought for motorcycle rights.

Hall Of Fame Rings did not become available until 2020. In 2020 the inductees received Hall of Fame Rings designed by Frank Zubieta owner of NINO 925.

Members of the Sturgis Hall Of Fame were given the opportunity to have rings made for them by contacting Frank.

CLICK HERE To Read this Photo Feature Article on Bikernet.com

CLICK TO Sign Up for our Free Weekly Newsletter to get latest motorcycle news, tech & updates

by Emily Chavous from russbrown.com

Whether riding a motorcycle or challenging norms, Gevin Fax is no stranger to blazing trails.

She says, “I think this is the best, most wonderful country in the world, but we are not flawless. I want women to not sell themselves short. We are stronger than we give ourselves credit for. We are more possible than we could ever imagine.”

“Everybody kept telling me my life was going to change after I bought the Harley. Let me tell you something: Everything changed.”

CLICK HERE To Read this Feature Article on Bikernet.com

Get all motorcycle news, updates & tech – CLICK To Sign Up for our Free Weekly Newsletter

This weekend, ABATE of Michigan hosted its annual seminar in Saginaw, Michigan. In attendance were two longtime legislative champions for motorcyclist rights. Current Congressman, Tim Walberg and former Congressman Jim Barcia, joined the event.

Congressman Walberg is the Co-Chair of the House Motorcycle Caucus and a leading advocate for motorcyclist rights in Congress. Representative Walberg has championed a number of issues bikers care about, including work against the profiling of bikers and the need to ensure autonomous vehicles can recognize and react to motorcyclists.

Former Congressman Jim Barcia of Michigan fought against federal helmet blackmail efforts in the 1990’s. Along with Congressman Petri of Wisconsin and others, Representative Barcia defeated federal regulations that established a penalty, whereby a certain percentage of a state’s highway funds were shifted to safety programs if the state did not have a universal helmet law. This regulation effectively blackmailed states into enacting helmet laws by holding federal funds hostage. Working hand in hand with the Motorcycle Riders Foundation lobbyist at the time, Wayne Curtain, Congress changed the law and freed states to make helmet law determinations without federal government interference.

It’s great to see past and current leaders in the motorcyclists rights movement taking the time to attend seminars like this. Thank you to ABATE of Michigan for building and maintaining these relationships which benefit all bikers across our nation.

About Motorcycle Riders Foundation
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders.
Visit Website: https://mrf.org

The sound…potato-potato, a rumble from within, these are all one in the same: this is Harley-Davidson. Whether young or old, once you have heard it, I believe, you will never forget it. Even more gripping is the emotion that “the sound” brings to anyone who has thrown a leg over the famous cycle and spent any time on the road with one. To be honest, it’s an addiction that I have yet attempted to curb. The feeling of the engine, the roads’ vibrations and the rhythmic thumping gets into your soul and once you are bit, it never truly goes away.

I am experiencing a real winter for the first time in my cycling life. My wife and I moved from Houston, Texas, where we’ve lived together since our marriage in 1996,
 to just outside Chicago, Illinois. I now understand the “chrome sweats”, and for the first time in my motorcycle enthusiast lifetime, I get to upgrade the bike in the winter and long for the warmer springtime to ride again.

The wonderful thing about modifying is it at least gives you an outlet until the roads thaw out and the bike can be taken out again. You have time to plan, to dream, to save, and to do the work if you can find a warm spot in the garage.

Whenever I would hear of adding pipes to a fuel injected motorcycle, I would cringe thinking of pipes, tuners, air filters, dyno time, dyno tuners, and the like. This combination of possible issues can be confusing at times, especially today as the newer bikes are becoming harder and harder to legally tune without the fear of the dreaded “voiding your warranty”. Almost like the Catholic kids getting threatened with the punishment of their evil thoughts, the warranty fear is held over your head and creates the dreaded “I don’t want to void my warranty” scare. Today’s market makes it much more enticing to try though…especially when you do a little research.

For myself, I decided it was time to remove the heavy, hot, stock head pipe (with catalytic converter), mufflers, and replace it with an actual exhaust system. Even though my bike is twin-cooled, it would get ridiculously hot on the right side. I have made two previous exhaust mods to this bike in the 6 years since I’ve had her, such as Rush Big Louie slip-on mufflers, Screamin’ Eagle Street Cannons, and added a high flow filter hoping to get a little rumble without breaking the bank.

I always loved the look of a clean 2-into-1 performance pipe and Thunderheader was the “go to” in years past. D&D came on the scene and I believe is now the most popular choice among those in the “performance bagger” world. Two Bros. Racing is starting to gain traction as well with their stylish and versatile applications. For me and my money, style had to match looks and I wanted the pipe that I feel has the sexiest bends in the biz, The Bassani!

I searched and searched and finally decided on the blacked out Bassani Road Rage 2. Being in Illinois, I’ve heard the roads can wreak havoc on chrome and the black has a durable reputation…we will see. Quick search on Amazon, placed it in my cart, and click…it’s on the way.

Of course, this modification also required a tuner. I decided on the Vance and Hines FuelPaK 3 as it is a blue tooth enabled program that plugs directly into my 6-pin connector and provides a basic map for my configuration. Plus, with this tuner, there’s no need for a dyno tune. As I read more about it, I realized this tuner has many more facets and features than I could want or need, so for the money it was the one I chose. Let’s see how I feel in a couple of years. It’s received reviews from every end of the spectrum but has been around long enough I’m hoping the bugs are all worked out.

The last modification came as a need vs. a want is my rear suspension. I decided on the American-made Legends Revo 12” for the rear. While they have the same height as the H-D Low shocks, they have more travel and better sag setting. Again, you can get into a whole new set of options when you decide to shop for suspension and can spend anywhere from 350-1500 on a set of rear shocks. I went with the base Legend Revo, which has great reviews and was reasonably priced.

Meanwhile back at the exhaust system: I removed the main fuse first, then the bags, then the mufflers. I had to remove the right floorboard and bracket to clear the way for the headpipe maneuvering and removal. I was extremely careful before I started removing anything and sprayed all the fasteners I would be working with the night before with some penetrating oil. Rust and corrosion had shown signs on a few fasteners and the last thing I wanted was to twist something off.

When you remove the headpipe, be extra careful when removing the O2 sensors and remember which one goes where. I always use a pen and paper to write notes while working on the bike and noted the plug positions, the black connector to the rear pipe and gray connector to the front pipe.

I made sure to loosely attach the headpipe, main bracket, main muffler bracket, and muffler support bracket until I could line everything up and then slowly tightened the headpipe first, then the main bracket, and then the muffler last. Of course, I plugged the main fuse back in at this point. Before I put the tuner or the heat-shields on the bike, I decided to heat cycle the pipe a few times to warm it up then recheck the tightness of the fittings. I also checked for exhaust leaks at the head pipe with a little spray of carb/choke cleaner at the exhaust connections (on first start up so as not to have a fire), and I didn’t hear or feel a change in exhaust note or intake noise.

It was hard to be patient as the more I placed each piece on the bike, the more awesome it looked and I wanted to rush to fire her up. Because it was in the low teens outside, the weather would force me to take breaks and go back inside to warm up. While this slowed the operation, it assisted in preventing me from rushing and screwing something up.

Once the pipe was on and heat-cycled three different times, I just followed the directions for heat-shield placement and carefully attached the shields. The look of the pipe was outstanding in my opinion and from the small sample I heard sounded dramatically different, and definitely in a good way. The deeper rumble replaced the old rattling and I am sure is far lighter than the stock monstrosity. Definitely worth the money for me.

Next step was the Fuelpak, which couldn’t have been easier.

You will receive instructions asking you if you would like to pair the tuner to your bike and gives you the option for maps. You can also select an “Autotune” option, but I just went with a pre-mapped program. You will be prompted that the bike has paired and mapped the download and then you get instructions to turn off the power for 30 seconds. Your phone’s app will automatically start a timer so you don’t screw up and then you get a prompt to turn the bikes power on.

The last mod for this project was the rear suspension. The shocks are as simple as it comes. Just jack the bike up enough so the wheel is stable but the swing arm is neutral, or doesn’t hang down. Remove one shock and replace with the Legend shock.

So, I basically spent a couple of bucks on Amazon, a couple of afternoons in the garage, and I was able to change the look and feel of my motorcycle significantly to improve overall enjoyment in my ride. While I can guarantee this isn’t the last mod I’m planning, it has been one of the easiest I’ve tackled. Since I made these changes, I have already ordered some new brake rotors and will replace next week.

I used basic hand tools, a Harbor Freight Motorcycle lift, a scissor jack, and a good radio station to keep me calm during the whole thing. I can tell you, if you start hitting a sticking point, or if you start having trouble with a nut, it is best to take a break. I have cost myself thousands over the years because I was in a rush and would push it past my limits and either I’d hear a pop, a snap, an abrupt release on the wrench…all bad things that required replacing something and more time down.

The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.

CLICK HERE To Read the Weekly News on Bikernet.com

Join the Cantina for more – Click Here to Subscribe

Hey,

This should be interesting, but first I need my second cup of coffee. The shop is flying together, but weather is a constant factor. It might start to snow tonight or tomorrow.

Jason’s crew is moving quick to build the exterior walls, add the trusses and roof. Once the exterior is in place we can heat and pour the interior slab.

So, what’s a poor biker to do but to buy parts and pieces, so when the shop has the green light there’s shit to build.

Let’s hit the news:

The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.

LATEST FROM THE PRISM GANG–Prism x Bates

The Prism x Bates Solo Seat and P-Pad were 100% made by the Bates team in Long Beach using the original templates, material and decades of experience their team carries with them.

OVERLAND’ AT THE PETERSEN MUSEUM–THE LATEST EXHIBIT FROM
THE MOTORCYCLE ARTS FOUNDATION TEAM

Curated by Paul d’Orléans, and presented by the Sasha Tcherevkoff and the Motorcycle Arts Foundation (with support from Harley-Davidson), ‘ADV:Overland’ celebrates the spirit of adventure! Round-the-World, long-distance racing, off-world prototypes, and sci-fi fantasy vehicles in one remarkable exhibit.

NEWS FROM THE MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION–Lawmakers Head to the Exits in 2022

Happy New Year! As is the case every two years, 2022 is an election year for much of Congress. All 435 members of the U.S. House of Representatives, and 1/3 of the U.S. Senate are up for reelection in November. Add state and local elections to that and literally thousands of elections will take place this year.

What’s been interesting about this year’s congressional races is the number of lawmakers who are retiring, and not seeking reelection. While every year has a handful of retirements, 2022 might set a record! As of this week, 37 Representatives (26 Democrats and 11 Republicans) as well as 6 Senators (1 Democrat and 5 Republicans) have announced they will be stepping down at the end of the year.

The reasons for retirements vary, some are seeking higher office, others are fed up with Washington D.C. and others are simply avoiding potential election defeat. Regardless of the reason for these departures, it’s surprising that nearly 10% of lawmakers are headed for the exits.

There are two important things you as a Motorcycle Riders Foundation member should take away from these retirements. First, if your elected official is retiring, have they been supportive of MRF priorities in the past? In the final months of their time in D.C., many congressional offices will change their tune on issues and be more supportive of topics they avoided in the past. It doesn’t hurt to reach out again, and push for MRF priorities before the lawmakers are gone for good.

Ask the MRF D.C. team if we can help!

Second, with so many vacancies around the country, it’s a great time to get to know new candidates. Getting in on the ground floor and building relationships early in the process is one of the best ways to impact change and support your fellow bikers.

In 2020, bikers in Michigan developed an early relationship with a candidate for office months before the election. That candidate won and became a U.S. Representative! She still fondly remembers the support she received early on from riders in her district. So, get involved early and introduce yourself to the new crop of leaders headed to D.C.

Below is the current list of lawmakers departing their current positions. This list will grow in the coming months, keep your eyes and ears opened and stay up to date on who represents you in D.C. Reach out to the MRF D.C. team if you have any questions about the changing make up of Congress.

Alabama: Brooks, Shelby
Arizona: Kirkpatrick
California: Bass, Lowenthal, Roybal-Allard, Speier
Colorado: Perlmutter
Florida: Crist, Demings, S. Murphy
Georgia: Hice
Illinois: Bustos, Kinzinger, Rush
Kentucky: Yarmuth
Maryland: Brown
Michigan: Lawrence
Missouri: Blunt, Hartzler, Long
New Jersey: Sires
New York: Reed, Suozzi, Zeldin,
North Carolina: Budd, Burr, Butterfield, Price,
Ohio: Gonzalez, Portman, Ryan
Oregon: DeFazio
Pennsylvania: Doyle, Lamb, Toomey
Texas: Brady, Gohmert, E.B. Johnson, Vela,
Vermont: Leahy, Welch
Wisconsin: Kind

NEWS FROM THE BUCKLEGUY–When to Use Pricking Irons & Stitching Punches

The primary difference is pricking irons cut slits or pricks through the leather, while stitching punches make actual holes. With the irons, the different options are based on the shape and direction of the cuts, which determines the length and direction of the stitches. With punches you instead have the option to choose the size of the holes that are cut from the leather.

The other big difference is your personal aesthetic; do you prefer the final look of pricking irons, or the round hole punches?!

Both pricking irons and stitching punches work with a variety of threads used for hand stitching. These include Maine Thread, Ritza Tiger Thread, and Fil Au Chinois. With stitching punches you also have the ability to use a thicker thread or lace as well.

Made in South Korea, Sinabroks irons and punches are top-of-the-line tools due to their fine materials and craftsmanship. They all have hand-polished teeth for precision cuts and smooth entry and exit. We recommend using vinyl pricking pads to protect the teeth instead of a standard cutting board.

–The Buckleguy Team

NEWS FROM THE AEROSTICH SERVICE CENTER–Our repair experts are available to turn-around incoming work quickly this time of year.

So, this is a great time to get your Aerostich gear carefully repaired or refurbished – or even have us clean and renew the water-repellent treatment. Your suit, jacket, or pants will be ready to ride again well in time for spring.

(Average turn-around is 1-3 weeks.)

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY NEW ZEALAND CAMPUS REPORT–Have a read of this and quiz your grandkids.?
Lost Words From Our Childhood

Mergatroyd! Do you remember that word? Would you believe the spell-checker did not recognize the word Mergatroyd? Heavens to Mergatroyd!

The other day a lady said something to her son about driving a Jalopy; and he looked at her quizzically and said, “What the heck is a Jalopy?” He had never heard of the word jalopy! She knew she was old … But not that old.

Well, I hope you are Hunky Dory after you read this and chuckle.

About a month ago, I illuminated some old expressions that have become obsolete because of the inexorable march of technology. These phrases included: Don’t touch that dial, Carbon copy, You sound like a broken record, and Hung out to dry.

Back in the olden days we put on our best bib and tucker.

Heavens to Betsy! Gee whillikers! Jumping Jehoshaphat! Holy Moley!

We were in like Flynn and living the life of Riley; and even a regular guy couldn’t accuse us of being aknucklehead, a nincompoop or a pill. Not for all the tea in China!

We wake up from a short nap, and before we can say, “Well, I’ll be a monkey’s uncle!” Or, “This is a fine kettle of fish!”

Poof, go the words of our youth, the words we’ve left behind. Where have all those great phrases gone?

Long gone: Pshaw, The milkman did it. Don’t forget to pull the chain. Knee high to a grasshopper. Well, Fiddlesticks! I’ll see you in the funny farm. Wake up and smell the roses.

Leaves us to wonder where Superman will find a phone booth…
See ya later, alligator! Okidoki.

You’ll notice they left out “Monkey Business”!!!

WE ARE THE CHILDREN OF THE FABULOUS 40’s and 50’S … NO ONE WILL EVER HAVE THAT OPPORTUNITY AGAIN .. WE WERE GIVEN ONE OF OUR MOST PRECIOUS GIFTS: LIVING IN THE PEACEFUL AND COMFORTABLE TIMES, CREATED FOR US BY THE “GREATEST GENERATION!”

–Graeme Lowen
New Zealand Editor
Bikernet.com™

HOT NEWS FROM DIME BAG LEATHERS–Working on Race and Rally leather wallets. Be sure to checkout True Grit Vintage Motorcycle Show in Daytona Beach Hosted by Warren Lane with all the greats attending.

Please Like follow and share social media links.

Thanks!
@dimebag.leather
Warren Lane @atomic_metalsmith

CULTURE–‘OLIVE HAGER, THE ‘MILE A MINUTE’ GIRL–She was probably the first woman to ride a Wall of Death, in the same year the vertical Wall was invented – 1914.

Olive Hager found fame, a career, and love on the Wall, and she rode for decades, regardless of injuries and accidents – even fatal ones.
It’s a remarkable story by Motorcycle Hall of Famer Cristine Sommer-Simmons.

5-BALL LEATHER ORDER STATUS— Thanks for keeping me posted on MY status! I think I have all your books, but I am always happy to get another!

Does it amaze you at how prophetic Sam Orwell has become? I don’t think we are there yet, but there are certainly people in the world that would love to make internal combustion engines illegal!

They have obviously forgotten their first bicycle or their first car and the sense of freedom it gave them!! And there is no feeling better than a cross country ride on your bike!!

Hell yeah!!
Ride hard, live free Amigo
–Ken

2021 was a Championship year for SBS BRAKE PADS—
Again in 2021, SBS is the preferred choice for the world’s best championship riders and teams. We are proud to support not only the leading Champions but also help the upcoming talents.

Contact your local dealership to order your posters.

Choose between:

6809726100 / #99 Adrian Huertas / World SSP300 2021
6809727100 / #77 Dominique Aegerter / World SSP600 2021
6809728100 / #95 Tarran Mackenzie / British Superbike 2021
6809729100 / #37 Ilya Mikhalchik / German Superbike 2021

NEWS FROM THE MASTER OF LIGHT–About two years ago, we announced a new “Aviatrix” series. The first piece in the series, titled “The Aviatrix” was a big success.

We are pleased to announce the worldwide release of David’s second piece in the series, titled “The Valkyrie”.

“The Valkyrie”
David Uhl 2022

David recently stated “The Valkyrie”, maidens in service to the chief god Odin, Viking saga /story. I have always loved the pantheon of the Nordic Gods, and believe they have deep connections to Atlantean times”.

We are now taking orders for the Fine Art canvas prints in this edition. Each piece will be hand-signed by David and numbered, with Certificate of Authenticity.

If you own the first piece, The Aviatrix, you have first right of refusal for your matching edition number on this new one. And all orders placed by Sunday will receive 10% off the prices below.

If you don’t have The Aviatrix and want to collect both pieces, you still have time. As an added bonus, through Sunday if you get both we are offering special pricing on the package. Please email me if interested. Having both will also grant you first right of refusal on matching numbers as the series moves forward.

Edition specifics for “The Valkyrie”:

** Image size 24 x 24, edition of 30 plus 5 Artist Proofs and 5 Hors d’ Commerce, $1,295 framed.

** Image size 30 x 30, edition of 30 plus 5 Artist Proofs and 5 Hors d’ Commerce, $1,895 framed.

** Image size 36 x 36, edition of 10 plus 3 Artist Proofs and 3 Hors d’ Commerce, $2,895 framed.

Shipping is additional.
Please let me know if I can be of assistance. As always, thanks for your time!

–Greg Rhodes
International Sales Director
David Uhl Fine Art
Uhl Studios
303-913-4840
https://www.uhlstudios.com/

SENIOR EDITOR RECEIVES STURGIS HALL OF FAME RING—John “Rogue” Herlihy just received his Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame silver ring from Frank Zubieta at Nino 925 American Made Jewelry.

For over 20 years, Frank Zubieta has been entrenched in biker jewelry lifestyle personally attending and creating biker jewelry for rallies around the country and worldwide in cities including Sturgis, Daytona Beach, Reno, Hollister, Las Vegas, New York City, and internationally attended by distribution, London, Barcelona, Italy, Germany, Portugal and many others.

Zubieta combines his love for biker jewelry handcrafted in sterling silver, yellow, rose, white gold, and platinum with precious and semiprecious stones to create wearable masterpieces that not only reflect the lifestyle of their owners, but can also be passed down for generations. That’s because Zubieta creates biker jewelry with a lifetime warranty.

Zubieta’s Biker jewelry is worn by men and women across the globe, with a certified distributor headquartered in Barcelona, Spain. Los Angeles based Nino925 biker jewelry is a known and respected brand in the jewelry industry and has been featured in multiple lifestyle magazines and on national television shows..

It means a lot to me to have this ring.

These are the Superbowl rings of the motorcycle industry in size and stature.

–Rogue
Senior Editor
Bikernet.com™

BIG AUCTION NEWS–Mecum’s Las Vegas sale is January 25-29 and returns to the South Point Hotel and Casino! Check out their list of amazing machines!

Brothers are headed that direction from all over the country.

–Bandit

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT WORD OF THE DAY–tchotchke
[ chahch-kuh ]
noun

an inexpensive souvenir, trinket, or ornament.

WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF TCHOTCHKE?
Tchotchke “an inexpensive souvenir, trinket, or ornament” is a borrowing of Yiddish tshatshke, from obsolete Polish czaczko “toy, trinket” (modern Polish cacko), which is cognate with Czech cacka and Russian cacka, of the same general meaning. These Slavic terms are all most likely of imitative origin; with the addition of the diminutive suffix -ka or -ko, the original forms (Czech caca and both Polish and Russian caca) appear to be reduplicated syllables that are typical of baby talk.

In case you thought it was a little strange that a word for “toy” or “trinket” would derive from a doubled syllable, bear in mind that English contains the similarly reduplicated term knickknack. Tchotchke was first recorded in English in the late 1960s.

HOW IS TCHOTCHKE USED?

For a reminder-through-association to work well it needs to be distinctive—something out of place that will catch the eye. To remind yourself to mail a stack of bills in the morning, for example, you might put a tennis ball on top of them …. And to remind employees to fill out the sign-up sheet for the holiday party, place it next to the brand new large snow globe on the receptionist’s desk and let people know to sign-up when they see the distinctive new tchotchke.

TODD ROGERS AND KATY MILKMAN, “A NEW WAY TO REMEMBER: THE POWER OF QUIRKY MEMORY JOGS,” SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN, FEBRUARY 7, 2017

Michael Zegen, a star of “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” is an unabashed hunter and gatherer. It runs in the family …. He says that tchotchkes make him feel good. “From the time I was a kid I’ve been into knickknacks,” said Mr. Zegen, whose collectibles include an orange Snoopy and a robot.

TONY CENICOLA, “THE FEEL-GOOD POWER OF TCHOTCHKES,” NEW YORK TIMES, NOVEMBER 27, 2018

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–2018 Harley-Davidson® FLHRXS – Road King® Special for $21,995.00

SEE IT HERE:: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=7906108

Industrial gray denim 2018 Harley-Davidson ROAD KING SPECIAL FLHRXS

Some of the features/Add-ons on this bike

* Black 18 inch Meat hook ape hangers
* Black Avon grips
* Highway pegs
* Black spike axle nut covers
* Black aftermarket floorboards
* Black ball-milled shifter knob
* Black ball-milled derby cover
* Color matched stretched saddle bags
* Satin Black Samson true dual fishtail exhaust
* Black ball-milled Rinehart Racing high-flo air cleaner/intake
* Blacked out front end
* Dunlap tires on front 19 inch and rear 16 inch Black wheels
* 107 Milwaukee 8
* 6 Speed transmission

This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 101-point safety and mechanical inspection. Whether you’re looking to commute to work, ride the coast or take that dream vacation, this bike is ready to go!!!

*******************90 day/1000 mile in house limited warranty!****************************************

EZ FINANCING-SHIPPING AVAILABLE!!!

Fill out an online application and ride today!!!

**Open 7 days a week**

***90 day/1000 mile in house limited warranty!

Just $21,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155

Monster Energy’s UNLEASHED Podcast Welcomes Motocross Champion Adam Cianciarulo–Episode 22 Interviews 25-Year-Old Dirt Bike Racing Prodigy and Team Monster Energy Kawasaki Rider

CORONA, California – January 10, 2022 – Kicking off the 2022 Supercross season with a special treat! Monster Energy is proud to host 2019 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Series Champion and dirt bike racing prodigy Adam Cianciarulo on Episode 22 of the sports and pop culture podcast UNLEASHED with The Dingo and Danny.

“I’m glad that I’ve reached this point that I’m able to go out there on Saturday nights and live my dream. Sports are always going to be up or down with results or injuries. But at the end of the day, there is nothing in my life that I would rather be doing.

It has been a crazy journey,” said Monster Energy’s Cianciarulo on the new edition of the UNLEASHED podcast.

Fans can now get the inside story of Cianciarulo’s pro motocross journey in this latest episode of UNLEASHED. Released today, the new podcast starring Adam Cianciarulo and special guest interviewer “Dirt Shark” Ash Hodges is streaming on all major platforms, including Spotify, iTunes, and YouTube.

Cianciarulo has been riding dirt bikes for as long as he can remember. He started on his first minibike at age 3 and began racing one year later. His natural talent earned the native Floridian eleven AMA Amateur Motocross National Championships – still an unsurpassed record! As a pro, the Team Monster Energy Kawasaki rider kept collecting trophies, including the 2019 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Series Championship and the coveted AMA Pro Motocross Rookie of the Year award.

Raised in Port Orange near Daytona Beach, Florida, Cianciarulo was born with a need for speed. “My whole existence is really around dirt bikes. I got a bike when I was three years old and just started shredding around on it. I started racing locally when I was four and was pretty naturally gifted at it right away. So my parents were always super supportive and did everything to help me,” he said on the episode.

Soon enough, Cianciarulo’s natural talent allowed him to dominate far beyond local races and attract sponsors at a young age. “It kind of snowballed and became my life, I guess,” said Cianciarulo, who decided to pursue a career as a professional early on. “At age ten, I knew that’s all I wanted to do. I kind of understood the gravity as I get older. But in the moment, I just wanted to win! I just had that drive for it.”

In an unparalleled reign as an amateur racer, Cianciarulo became the winningest minibike rider in amateur motocross history. He clinched eleven AMA Amateur National Championships at Loretta Lynn, considered the Super Bowl of amateur motocross racing. But he always had his eyes set on fulfilling his lifelong dream of turning pro: “Any accomplishment in amateur racing was always about, how can I be a good pro? I wasn’t counting championships or counting checks. I was always like, how can I be one of those guys racing Supercross every Saturday night? I was just so focused on the process that success came naturally.”

In 2013, Cianciarulo turned pro for Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki and soon became a force to be reckoned with in the 250 division. After years of battling for the top spot and a heated rivalry with Frenchman Dylan Ferrandis, he finally earned the national AMA championship in 2019. “I just have this desire to win dirt bike races. There is just something about me that I’m obsessed with it. I enjoy that feeling. I wake up every day, how the hell am I going to win?”

Since joining the 450 division in 2020, Cianciarulo has overcome injuries and worked tirelessly to perfect his racing skills. Speaking on the ultra-competitive league, he said on UNLEASHED: “The one thing about the 450 class is that the top fifteen guys have all won championships on 250s. So, your margin for error is just so small. The races are a little bit longer, the tracks are rougher. All the little things you don’t do well show ten times more!”

Heading into the 2022 season alongside teammate Jason Anderson, the prodigy is laser-focused on perfecting his skillset through daily training. “I figured out along the way that the joy is in the doing. To fall in love with the process of what you’re doing every day. And the results will come.” Asked what he most looks forward to in the 2022 Monster Energy Supercross season, Cianciarulo replied: “Winning!”

But better hear the full story yourself! Head over to the landing page to access Episode 22 of the UNLEASHED with The Dingo and Danny Podcast featuring Monster Energy Kawasaki rider Adam Cianciarulo.

The UNLEASHED with The Dingo and Danny Podcast is here to celebrate the personalities behind the Monster Energy lifestyle. With each episode dedicated to a unique guest or topic, listeners learn about living on the edge and advancing the state of the art in the world of high-energy sports as well as music, games, and pop culture from individuals at the top of their game. More than a drink, Monster Energy is a way of life lived by athletes, sports, bands, believers, and fans – and the podcast is an extension of this unique DNA.

For more on Adam Cianciarulo and our team of motocross athletes visit www.monsterenergy.com. Also follow Monster Energy on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok for exclusive content and athlete features.

[page break]

THE SCIENCE OF SCIENCE— this is the most sensible article ever written by someone not me.

https://fee.org/articles/why-the-bastardization-of-the-scientific-method-is-so-dangerous/?fbclid=IwAR16b4Ki2RSQhGq_fXP5CVi7nifiwDn1QRIgpmphW-sFa9TfcYr1yXQkCz4

–J.J. Solari
Investigator
Bikernet.com™

WARREN HEIR JR’S DEATH DEALER—
Warren Heir Jr. had his teeth cut for motorcycles when he was still a cub. His old man, Warren Heir Sr., ran a motorcycle shop out of the garage of their childhood home, and Heir Jr. spent time hearing stories about his father’s motorcycle escapades from all his various “uncles” — friends of the family who’d always hang around the shop.

Story By Choppers Magazine
Check Mama Tried for more info

THE HONEST BROKER: MAKING SENSE OF SCIENCE IN POLICY AND POLITICS, BOOK REVIEW–

Scientists have a choice concerning what role they should play in political debates and policy formation, particularly in terms of how they present their research. This book is about understanding this choice, what considerations are important to think about when deciding, and the consequences of such choices for the individual scientist and the broader scientific enterprise.

Rather than prescribing what course of action each scientist ought to take, the book aims to identify a range of options for individual scientists to consider in making their own judgments about how they would like to position themselves in relation to policy and politics.

Using examples from a range of scientific controversies and thought-provoking analogies from other walks of life, The Honest Broker challenges us all – scientists, politicians and citizens – to think carefully about how best science can contribute to policy-making and a healthy democracy.

–by Roger Pielke, Jr.
Cambridge University Press

NEW FROM RMJ–
We are proud to introduce the 3V Syndicate, and the introduction of the Sparrow into the Syndicate line-up. The 3V Syndicate is composed of three very select groups. One; RMJ USA’s highly skilled craftsmen and designers. Two; the hand-selected inner circle of our most dedicated dealers. Three; You, and the other purpose-driven users who seek the very best high end cutting tools.

All three groups are drawn together around top shelf products made from CPM 3V steel. This high end, American made tool steel is a lot like the members of the Syndicate, it’s cantankerous, extremely tough, and can be rough around the edges. CPM 3V is hard on the equipment used to shape it. Machinery, cutters, grinding belts, and the craftsman’s patience are all tested by this difficult to work steel. However, in the end, the tools crafted from it are worth the effort, they are the embodiment of American excellence.

Purchasing a Sparrow will give you access to the 3V Syndicate Safe House. As a 3V Syndicate member you are positioned for limited runs and exclusive products available only to members. Others need not apply!

The 3V Syndicate Sparrow is a compact bird and trout style fixed blade knife that excels in a concealed carry or everyday carry (EDC) capacity. You can use the Sparrow to cut an apple in the park without anyone being concerned that you have a dangerous weapon in your hand. It blends in well in both urban and rural settings and is a great companion for any type of adventure. The classic drop point blade has a Cobalt Cerakote finish for corrosion and glare resistance.

The 3V Syndicate Sparrow is finished with smooth carbon fiber handles scales for a stealthy look. The Sparrow comes with a molded kydex scabbard with two MAD straps that allow for scout-style carry (horizontal) and inside the waistband (IWB) vertical carry. It is also MOLLE compatible and can be set up to attach to PALS webbing on any pack, plate carrier, or similarly equipped gear. The Sparrow also includes a 3V Syndicate Coin, Leather Patch, and cherry presentation box.

Specifications
Overall Length: 7 in
Blade Length: 3.5 in
Cutting Edge Length: 3.125 in
Blade Thickness: .130 in
Weight: 2.3 ounces (without sheath)
Blade Material: CPM-3V (HRC 58-60)
Blade Finish: Cobalt Cerakote
Handle Material: Carbon Fiber
Sheath: Kydex scabbard

In the box: Sparrow Knife, Kydex Scabbard, Coin, Leather Patch, Cherry presentation box.

TRUTH ABOUT CARS— More Western Leaders Call for the End of Private Vehicle Ownership

If there’s anything that’ll get my stomach into a twist, it’s the government talking about the merits of reducing people’s ability to own things. Fortunately, the 36-hour flu I just experienced made me nigh-invulnerable and someone had forwarded me the latest on what U.K. Parliamentary Under-Secretary for the Department for Transport Trudy Harrison had to say about personal vehicle ownership. She’s very keen on public transpiration but not so interested in the plebian masses having access to their own, individual modes of transport.

Earlier this month, she told a virtual audience at shared transport charity CoMoUK that the United Kingdom needed to move away from “20th-century thinking centered around private vehicle ownership and towards greater flexibility, with personal choice and low carbon shared transport.”

Though the matter is hardly isolated to the U.K. In the United States, the San Diego Association of Government’s board of directors has recently passed its annual Regional Transportation Plan that originally included a provision to charge drivers a fee for literally every single mile driven. It’s sort of like the fuel tax, but worse since it applies an additional 4 cents per mile regardless of whether you’re burning liquid fuel or sourcing it from the grid using an electric vehicle.

Fortunately, that particular item received sufficient opposition to have it taken out of the plan. However, the board hinted that it wanted to revisit the item at a later date, because it believes the entire premise of its existence is to create a 30-year blueprint that encourages the region (encompassing 18 Californian cities) to transition away from personal vehicle ownership as a way to enhance public transportation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

While she never weighed in on it, we’re under the assumption that the UK’s transport minister is of a similar mind.

“Changing the way people consider car ownership and dependency will take time,” Harrison said during the CoMoUK conference. “Many things seem far fetched until they aren’t and I believe the same is true for shared mobility.”

I’m only aware of Minister Trudy Harrison’s position thanks to Motorious’ Steven Symes, who has been tracking the issue and likewise tied the U.K. plotting to what’s been happening on the Western Coast of the United States.

–By Matt Posky
Truth about CARs

MOTORCYCLE TOURS FOR 2022–Adriatic Coast and Northern Islands

This tour is the shorter version of our famous Adriatic Coastal Adventure tour. Riding the stunning Adriatic Coast is something every biker should try and do at least once in their lives, it really is that special. If you want to spend your extended weekend riding one of the most scenic European rides along the coast of Adriatic, combined with beautiful hilly inlands of charming Istria, enjoying the glorious islands sunsets, this is the tour for you!

Adventure Roads Ltd
299a Bethnal Green Road
E26AH London, UK
info@mototourseurope.com

BIKERNET UNIVERSITY SCIENCE CLASS—Thought we should clarify after the movie, Don’t Look Up, was released.

Meteor vs. Asteroid vs. Comet: The Astronomical Differences Between These And More Terms

Meteors, meteorites, meteoroids, asteroids, comets … that’s a lot of terms (and space objects) flying around! Not to mention shooting stars and meteor showers. Are they all the same thing? Even though some of them may appear pretty similar to us, the answer is no, they’re not the same thing—especially not to the scientists who study them and who use different terms for specific reasons (more on them later).

You’re about to get a crash course in the differences and similarities—some subtle, some meatier—between meteors, meteorites, and meteoroids. You’ll also learn how they compare or relate to asteroids and comets. And you’ll even get some tips for when to spot them in the sky!

Quick summary

Meteor: A meteoroid that enters Earth’s atmosphere and burns up.
Meteorite: A meteoroid, especially one that has hit Earth’s surface.
Asteroid: A rocky object that orbits the sun and has an average size between a meteoroid and a planet.
Comet: An object made mostly of ice and dust, often with a gas halo and tail, that sometimes orbits the sun.

–Dictionary.com

Got it?—Bandit

GOOD NEWS FOR 2022—We now have a bunch of Chopper and classic motorcycle magazines available. Cycle Source is still the king and if you want an informative classic bike magazine join the Antique Motorcycle Club of America. Hell, I saw the cover of Outlaw Bikers and got to glance through the most recent Easyriders Classic Magazine.

Foreseeable electric car catastrophes
Imagine: It is September 4, 2035 in Miami and a large Cat. 5 hurricane is offshore headed straight for Miami.

Roughly 7 million persons are in the general area where the hurricane will come ashore in 24 hours. The governor orders an evacuation of the Miami-Fort Lauderdale area of Florida. All of the cars start heading north on I-95. All lanes are cleared to head northbound. With Congress and President Cortez having mandated that all cars built after 2030 must be electric (no hybrids) everyone heads north, but now they are caught up in a terrible traffic jam.

Hurricane Katrina on US Weather Service radar

Electric cars are starting to stall out on the I-95 as well as the A1A and the Turnpike as they run out of power. There are simply not enough charging stations to charge the cars and police monitoring the available chargers are limiting drivers to 15 minutes. Chargers are shutting down as water shorts out the charging heads on the cars. The electric cars are turning off their air conditioners to preserve their remaining charge.

You are stuck in the traffic jam all night with the storm headed right at you. No battery, no A/C/ no windshield wipers, no GPS. All that you can do is call 911 and hope for help, but they can’t because all the roads are blocked with stalled electric vehicles. The new electric police and EMT vehicles mandated by President Cortez soon are out of juice. The wind is increasing. Then Florida Power and Light turns off the grid as power lines come down.

How do you charge thousands of electric cars stalled in a traffic jam? Each car must be towed to a charger or given a quick charge just to get it off the road. With no A/C many elderly and infirm will die in their cars. In Florida or the Gulf coast thousands will surely drown.

Where is the electricity to charge these cars going to come from? Today’s grid is maxed out almost every day during the summer. No nuclear power. California has two nuclear plants and one is being totally decommissioned and the other is scheduled for decommissioning.

Lithium-ion batteries are toxic waste. Where is the infrastructure to recycle these “green” car batteries.

Oil was “discovered” for commercial development in Pennsylvania in 1859. With 150 years to develop the infrastructure and distribution system for oil and gas, we are blessed with a robust and reliable source of power. Modern gasoline powered cars yield almost no air pollution. Is it such a smart idea to trash this well-developed system to go “green”?

THE VINTAGENT CLASSICS–
‘Angels Die Hard’

A classic B-movie biker flick in which, for once, the 1%ers are the good guys, or at least, the victims of violent rednecks. It’s the first film distributed by Roger Corman’s New World Pictures: Corman launched countless careers in Hollywood, including James Cameron and Ron Howard – both big-time Oscar winners. This film is directed by Richard Compton, who went on to a very long career directing mostly TV series, from Baywatch to X-Files.

TATTOO ALERT FROM EUROPE: the muslimization of civilization continues the EU has outlawed tattoo ink.

It’ll be like heroin. you’ll have to get ink from the chinks and the wops and the spics. Get caught, 40 years in prison for tattoo ink. The Muslims run Europe now, kinda like they do here.

They don’t like tattoos, dogs, art, music, adult women, and non-Muslims. and that’s the SHORT list.

–J.J. Solari
Senior Investigator
Bikernet.com™

BANDIT’S KNUCKLESLED REPORT–Workin the first concept sketches for the Bikernet Knuckle Sled with different color combos. For this concept, I Chose a skinny 21” 40-spoke with dual large diameter polished brake rotors and small polished calipers.

Customized Blings Cycles gas tank. Handtooled leather sprung seat. Custom trumpets pipes. Rear 21” wide tire with Arlen Ness Taildragger fender. I’ll have more soon, traveling day.

Also starting to work on custom leather Key Fobs for Billy Lane at Choppers Inc for the first 7 or 50 custom motorcycle based around the Crocker he has. Read all about it in the New Classic Easyriders

All the best

ARE PEDESTRIANS VERMIN? Philosophers Debate Anti-Automobile Notions

In November of 2021, an obscure philosophy article was given inordinate attention in the press, propelled by press releases from anti-automobile activist groups. The article, “The vermin of the street: the politics of violence and the nomos of automobility” by Robert Braun and Richard Randell, appeared in the journal Mobilities, published online by Rutgers University. Its thesis is that the street—the space between the curbs—is a lawless, violent domain where drivers may kill pedestrians without penalty as if they were vermin.

The article was seized on by activists trying to sell the notion that the auto is inherently violent and can’t be redeemed—only expelled. While the original philosophical piece went largely unread, commentary on it has been widespread by people wanting to restrict auto use.

Ill-formed ideas are sometimes dressed up in foreign words. Nomos meant “law” in fifth-century-BC Greece when ownership of land was first fought over, customs were evolving into law, and the obligations of citizens were being debated for the first time.

The law of the street has evolved over the 12 decades of the automotive era, starting out as custom and progressing into standardized vehicle codes. A recent wave of propaganda says that this was not a democratic evolution but an appropriation by hegemonic automotive industries. Should the law governing the rights of pedestrians and drivers now be overthrown, and absolute power given to pedestrians?

Democracy doesn’t like absolutes. The laws that gave motorists power between the curbs are the product of democratic government and the larger legal system. The journal authors acknowledge that the decision for automobility was the same in every country, under every system of government, even in developing countries with horrific traffic casualty rates. The present system is the result of 110 years of political decisions balancing mobility, risk, and competing street uses. It’s not going to be overthrown easily.

Sure, it’s a tragedy that most streets are no longer usable for quiet strolling, markets, or children’s playgrounds. They now have a higher function: giving the great mass of people access to their world. Activists quoting the Rutgers article evidence unashamed hostility toward mobility by the masses. Remember that auto means self. When anti-auto partisans militate against automobility, they want to deny people agency over their own movement.

The journal article describes the road as a “totalitarian” environment. This is an Orwellian shift in meaning. (“War is peace. Freedom is slavery.”) Such meaning reversals are becoming common in anti-democratic politics. In the anti-auto world view, driving is violence, the highway is totalitarian, and transit is liberating. In the real world, automobility is one of the great democratizing forces in history, while transit restricts travel to a few approved destinations and rigid schedules.

ELECTRIC WORLD–Hah! not your ol’ man’s Knuckle.

The range-topper can also cover 146 miles on a single charge.

Shared from Apple News
–Geno

It’s a National Record holder and contains the best of the best stuff components. Lonnie Isam worked on it at one point.

If you’re seriously interested, give Dan a call 262-909-6937. He’s asking $35,900.

LATEST FROM THE COVID FILES–Have a look at this article in MSN today.

‘Can’t Eradicate This Virus’: Top Scientists In US, UK Say Covid Could Be Endemic

https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/world/can-t-eradicate-this-virus-top-scientists-in-us-uk-say-covid-could-be-endemic/ar-AASGQtC

“There’s no way we’re going to eradicate this virus given its contagiousness, its propensity to mutate into new variants and the large pool of unvaccinated people,” Fauci said.

Fauci said that he hoped that the US will soon enter a transitional phase where it will be easier to treat high-risk Covid-19 patients. “The country will hopefully enter a new phase where there’ll be enough protection in the community, enough drugs available so that when someone does get infected and is in a high-risk group, it will be very easy to treat that person,” he said.

He also pointed out that particular point will indicate the US is transitioning and learning to live with the virus. Fauci, however, warned that with 1,200 deaths reported daily, the US has not reached that point.

UK cases drop

The UK reported 120,821 new cases and 379 new deaths on Tuesday but cases dropped, according to a report by news agency The Guardian. The report also outlined that the total number of cases over the past one week has dropped by at least 13.1% compared to the week before.

The UK’s Office for National Statistics says that at least 95% of the population in the UK have developed antibodies to Covid from vaccination, infection or both.

SOURCE: https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/world/can-t-eradicate-this-virus-top-scientists-in-us-uk-say-covid-could-be-endemic/ar-AASGQtC

THIS JUST IN FROM DR. J.J. SOLARI:

Official response: There is no way to eradicate ANY virus. The flu mutates over and over but whatever it mutated FROM never disappears. THIS IS WHY THERE IS NO CURE FOR THE COMMON COLD!!!!! THERE’S TOO GODDAMN FUCKING MANY VARIETIES OF THE BASICALLY THE SAME VIRUS! THE FUCKING “PURPOSE” OF THE WINTER FLU AND THE COMMON COLD IS TO PUT THE FUCKING KIBOSH ON THE SICK AND ELDERLY OF THE HUMAN SPECIES!!!!! THE FLU VIRUS FAMILY IS A PREDATORY LIFE FORM THAT DEVOURS HUMANITY! AND LIKE ALL PREDATORS IT KILLS THE WEAK!! FUCKING THANK YOU!! GODAMMIT!!!

And, now that I have had three straight shots of Lapis-brand tequila, let me say, if I may, that in my opinion, based on just my examination of his insipid fucking face in newscasts and propaganda statements from his throne in DC, Fuckface Fauci is a soulless little piece of insufferable shit with some kind of weird agenda, which I have determined based on his listless rambling “explanations” of the annual cold and flu season which he has somehow singlehandedly transformed into a worldwide total loss of intelligence among the populace.

Not that the populace was ever intelligent. We’re where we are as a species because of the occasional individual who singlehandedly makes everyones’ lives better. Like Tesla. And Pasteur. And UN-like fuckface Fauci who singlehandedly, like all driven, ruthless, sociopathic wielders of power, makes everyones’ lives’ astoundingly worse. Fauci is one of these.

Look at his rambling vapid droning wandering very patiently elaborate “explanation” of 3rd grade health-and-safety about the common flu virus: like as though it’s suddenly some mighty and majestic anomaly. And that’s another thing: this whole Wuhan Schmoohan thing is a fucking fable. Designed to pretend that the annual cold and flu season is some clandestine secret lab monster accidentally let loose. The only fucking monster on the loose is Fauci.

Thank you. Take two aspirin and call me in the morning.

–JJ Solari,
Professor Enematis
Fuck U Niversity 101

THE ART OF GRATITUDE–Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. Melody Beattie

Today, as I Pause to prepare myself for my day, I think about all the things that I should be Grateful for. I Let Go of all my fears, doubts, regrets, worry, stress, and negativity. I close my eyes and think how lucky I am to be able to take on another breath of healthy fresh air.

All I have to do is look around my house and see so many things that I am Grateful for, electricity, my computer, my desk, a kitchen full of food, hot water, a toilet, toilet paper and so much more.

I have been blessed with the gift of being able to walk, talk, read and write. I have been born in a country that allows me to be, do and have anything I want if I set my Mind to it. I am thankful for all my experiences both good and bad for I would not be the person I am today if I did not learn from all the lessons.

Namaste’

–YALE

Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.

–Ralph Waldo Emerson

THERE YOU HAVE IT—We are going to bring you my first bike feature in Easyriders, direct from the pages in about the 5th issue, but I will confirm it.

I’m about to complete the Sturgis storied 2021 run with my grandson and Jeff Holt as he rode out from the west coast for the first time.

We ran into Buck Lovell, once the editor of Hot Bike magazine. He told us about the hike to the Roosevelt Tower behind the Deadwood Lodge. It was fresh outside but the Redhead and I made it. Amazing, we could see the entire state from the stone tower.

We have this 38-inch in diameter Hamster piece hanging in the Deadwood pad, but we can’t seem to find out who the artist was or where it came from.

My grandson, Frankie, had a meeting with George from Choppers Mag about advertising. George is into his long chopper, perfect for Choppers Magazine.

Frankie outside catching a sunset. He never gets a sunrise. He sleeps till noon then hits the gym.

I’m going to have just a few of these shirts, produced by Hal Robinson’s ex. She’s held onto them for a long time. Hall drew this for Lou Kimzey, who wrote under the name Spider. Lou or Spider was a trippy guy.

A couple of Hamster brothers are helping me get my hands on a driveline for another project. One of them is Carl Pussar, who recently sold his shop and is on the move. But he didn’t stop building bikes. Here’s his latest coming together in his makeshift shop.

Hang on for next week’s news. In the meantime Ride Fast and Free Forever!

I was personally reminded of this truth a few weeks ago, when I put a coat of primer on my cleaned-up winter project XR250R frame. With the freshly sandblasted and wiped-down frame hanging in the garage, I started spraying paint, and it wasn’t long before the fumes reminded me I should be really wearing some type of mask or respirator.

All of that got me thinking that I should review my garage’s safety items. Here are some items of essential kit for the home DIY enthusiast:

Safety glasses
Working on cars is tough enough when you can see what you are doing. This hobby is a whole lot more challenging if you lose your sight. Eye protection is no joke. I have a friend who lost an eye to a screwdriver, and another who had to visit the ER after a single wire from a wire brush on a grinder went straight into his cornea. Neither of them is shy about explaining what a horrible experience it is to suffer eye damage, and these two situation don’t even account for the risk of caustic chemical spray or splash.

Simple safety glasses can save your sight. Much like everything else in the garage, it’s wise not to cheap out; spend a little money here to get glasses that fit you well and are comfortable. You won’t wear them if you don’t like them, and safety glasses only work if you wear them.

Personally I have Oakley M-Frame glasses with changeable lenses. I find them to have great coverage while also being all-day wearable. Look around your local hardware store or welding supply as they typically have a range of OSHA-approved options.

Nitrile disposable gloves
The skin is also the largest human organ. Folks often think skin serves to protect our insides, but it needs to be protected too. Solvents and oils can be quickly absorbed through the skin and carried in the bloodstream, to your liver, which can’t really do much with non-organic chemicals. Over time, these can build up and cause significant health problems.

Some basic, disposable nitrile gloves can make all the difference. Latex and other glove options don’t hold up well to the chemicals mechanics expose themselves to, and thus should be avoided unless they are the only option. Nitrile is really what you want, and be sure to source a thickness that will hold up to the task at hand. Gloves offer no protection if they are torn open.

Heavy leather gloves
Nitrile gloves will keep chemicals from absorbing into your skin, but they do very little to protect from heat, cold, vibration, or abrasion. That is where a pair of leather gloves can really help. Awhile back, I got some (well-deserved) comments on an article about using an impact driver reminding me that using one without a nice glove is a quick way to lose some skin. Whether it’s holding a punch while hitting it with a hammer, keeping safe while working with hot things like welded parts, or handling items you are trying to break loose with heat, leather gloves can be a lifesaver.

Hearing protection
There is often no treatment for hearing loss. The annoyance of pausing for 10 seconds to cover or insulate your eardrums pales in comparison to the frustration of struggling to hear. Protection for your ears comes in a few forms, and each has its merits. Over-the-ear muffs are convenient, in-ear plugs are affordable and transport easily, and custom-molded are all-day comfortable (and very durable). I took an afternoon and visited an audiologist to have my custom molds made. While there, I realized I was the youngest patient by decades, which hopefully means I won’t be returning any time soon.

Respirator
The short list above covers three of the five senses, and a respirator is all about making sure you don’t taste or smell harmful aerosols. We all have to breathe to stay alive, and a respirator is designed to make sure your lungs stay in a condition that allows you to keep breathing.

A commercial garage is rife with airborne compounds you should not inhale, and home garages are not much better. Aerosol solvents and paints all have damaging effects on human lungs and should be carefully avoided. Sawdust or grinding debris is no different. Paper or fabric masks are better than nothing, but a proper well-fitting respirator is the right tool for the job. I just picked up a nice 3M unit with replaceable cartridges that covers just about everything in my garage. Only thing to keep in mind is that the replaceable cartridges do have a shelf life, both in their packaging and once opened. Extend it by keeping them in sealed plastic bags labeled with the date they were put into use, and replace them regularly.

Auto-darkening welding helmet

 

Stay safe out there!