A Global Event Covered by Katmandu with photos by Catherine Palmer

International Female Ride Day (IFRD) is a one-day motorcycle riding event happening each year on the first Saturday in May since 2007.

Click here to read this exclusive photo feature only on Bikernet.com

It’s been 14 years since I did Ladies Day Out, a local Treasure Coast women’s ride. From 1999 to 2010, the girls got together and we rode out in support of a local animal shelter. Then I got a real job and put the photojournalism on the back burner. Still rode when I could, supported when I could, (like so many of us) and as you probably know, always took my camera with me.

I have seen and heard of this particular event. I wasn’t able to attend or my head, and heart, were somewhere else. I have always been a champion for women riders. So now settled in a small home in a motorcycle Mecca, I can do more to be there for the girls with the jolt for more. Here’s some history courtesy of the this globally known motorcycle riding event, and how the ladies did it up in Daytona Beach this year.

International Female Ride Day (IFRD) is a one-day motorcycle riding event happening each year on the first Saturday in May since 2007. According to International Female Ride Day – Women’s Motorcycle Ride Day (motoress.com), “Those years ago, Vicki Gray, the founder of Motoress.com, came up with a brilliant idea to bring awareness to the growing numbers of female motorcyclists: designate one day in May for women riders to simply get out on their motorcycles and ride.“

Above photo courtesy of Motoress.com is Vicky Gray.

“A few years ago, seeing the huge growth in the interest—and realizing that many people work on a Friday—the day was moved to the first Saturday in May.” Motoress and many other motorcycling, road, sport, trike, antique, what be your choice of motorcycle, outlets have spread the word about this International Female Ride Day. This was my first time attending a world-wide riding event. Imagine, women is New Zealand doing the same thing we were doing on this very day.

The goal of the IFRD is to will other women to take up the handlebars. One of the points I appreciated the most was, “Can I ride alone or do I have to ride with a group?” You can ride to a staged designated beginning area or ride by yourself to any event you know about. Or show up with some girlfriends who ride also, toast to all of us brave and beautiful beings and feel your knees in the breeze.

Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson, also known as Destination Daytona, began the celebration in style, as always, with a early morning group ride from the dealership to visit our Veterans at the Emory L Bennett Memorial Veterans Nursing Home, which was about ten miles south in a more locale of Daytona Beach. The residents were eager to see these impressive women on all sorts of motorcycles. The gentlemen and one lady veteran lined up early and excited.

This part of the day was the brainchild of Athena Ransom of Vagabond Choppers and Rebecca Young, marketing manager of the dealership who together put forth the call for women riders to join in the day-long event. Our favorite friend of all things righteous, Willie from Tropical Tattoo, along with Mike Erthal both who have been decades long supporters of this nursing home, earnestly worked to make this happen for IFRD and our retired veterans.

 A group of 20 gorgeous women riders rode to the Nursing Home, with much inspiration as they all talked freely, hugged freely and got to take pictures with the veterans. It was such a heartwarming experience for everyone as smiles and laughter filled the front foyer. All the armed forces were represented and as you can tell by my photos, memories were made. The staff was thrilled as much as we were to be there.

Then, together, the pack headed back to Destination Daytona for a Ride-In-Bike show. Early May weather did not disappoint, and the dealership’s open arms were around every corner and uncluttered door. The bike show classes included; Big Twin, Sportster, Bagger, Trike, Vintage, Metric, Best Paint and Dealer’s Choice. Once the winner were announced, we were asked to ride up in front of the sand- like sculpture of the dealership’s logo for photographs.

My 1993 FXLR, “Rubber Soul” turned thirty this year. I wasn’t sure about which class, with a ten-dollar entry fee, Vintage or Big Twin, so for another five dollars, I went for both. The girls were thrilled to win, but also to meet other women riders, talk motorcycles, check out some new blue jeans and find a shady spot. I am so impressed with the, ahem, older women, who come riding in on their 1972 or 1973 stock FLH Shovelheads, floorboards, windshields, fiberglass saddle bags and wide glides as they find a tight parking spot. They make it look so easy.

Athena did her magic at judging the bikes that entered as her grandson, Baron, helped with anything he could. He’s five, going on six. He is a delightful youngster who was so gracious with the veterans. Once again, Rebecca and her entire staff put on a top notch show for those that stayed and played. Gift cards were the prizes, and as we all dispersed, we hug and wave and call each other “Sister Friend.”

Learn more about this internationally known day for women riders of all types. Look up the websites listed below. Subscribe to Bikernet.com. We don’t care what you ride, as long as you respect the pack, know the road and watch out for each other.

Love and respect always,
–Katmandu

https://womenridersnow.com

Photos and Text by Chris Callen, Cycle Source

A good old fandango, kicking-up some dust Texas-style in Fredericksburg. If you’re into motorcycles, chances are you are also into old ones. There’s no better way to snatch a weekend full of antique and vintage two-wheel machines than an AMCA (Antique Motorcycle Club of America) meet.

Problem can be some of the AMCA meets are a tad slow-paced, and sometimes if you pull in on a chopper, you’ll get a raised eyebrow or two. That’s not true in Texas, with the Cherokee Chapter of the AMCA. They initiated the Texas Fandango, and 2024 marked the third annual Fandango in Fredericksburg, Texas. It was a huge success.

Click here to read this photo feature article on Bikernet.com

* * * *

Divide and Run by Gearhead
with illustration by Wayfarer

TJ on his ‘80 Super Glide, Budreu on his ‘80 Wide Glide and me on my ‘70 Electra Glide jammed. The local sheriff waited for us to make a slip up for days.

We knew all the back roads.

We left the Rusty Nail bar one night and spotted the Sheriff in our vibrating sideview mirrors. Three abreast, we pulled up to the only dingy stop light in town. He turned on his flashing cop lights, and we left on the hazy green signal in three different ways.

He pulled into the intersection and just sat there.

(publication dated 11-May-2024)

* * *

Check out this year’s winners and all the entries since last year by visiting Bikernet.com
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Bikernet_100_Word_Fiction_Contest_2024.aspx

A good old fandango, kicking-up some dust Texas-style in Fredericksburg. If you’re into motorcycles, chances are you are also into old ones. There’s no better way to snatch a weekend full of antique and vintage two-wheel machines than an AMCA (Antique Motorcycle Club of America) meet.

Problem can be some of the AMCA meets are a tad slow-paced, and sometimes if you pull in on a chopper, you’ll get a raised eyebrow or two. That’s not true in Texas, with the Cherokee Chapter of the AMCA. They initiated the Texas Fandango, and 2024 marked the third annual Fandango in Fredericksburg, Texas. It was a huge success.

But this story covers exactly what this event stands for. The Cherokee Chapter managed to be an open-door for all motorcycle people, even the Chopper maniacs. Because of this, it’s the chapter Heather and I belong to, even if it’s1000 miles from home.

Their attitude towards inclusion and celebration of motorcycle culture, is a major reason why it has the largest memberships in the country. Plus, it organizes and hosts one of the best events nationwide.

Cycle Source Magazine sponsored the bike show at Fandango since the beginning, and we worked in conjunction with Steve Klein, the spiritual leader. He organized an incredible display of vintage motorcycles every day. This year was no exception, with the addition of truly unique trophies for all class winners.  

I mean, after all, if you do anything worth a damn in Texas, you get a saddle for it. So, in the spirit of the west, these handcrafted, beautiful little leather saddles were adorned with class winner tags for the best bikes. And man, this was a tough room between the Fours, the old Pans, the genuinely unique motorcycles, even Bultaco’s two-stroke Astros were painstakingly restored.

This was a tough event to judge. Just outside the vintage bike show was the Chopper Corral, which displayed a plethora of modified motorcycles and a great party.

Flat track racing tore-up the red clay throughout the weekend, but the Chopper Drag races were the highlight. It should be no surprise Danger Dan once again took the championship and was honored as the best drag racer. The swap meet kicked-it, and I took away a killer set of saddlebags for a Cycle Source shop project. Jason Sims displayed early twin cylinders, but in the middle of serious negotiations Heather (the wife) showed up and squashed the deal, damn.

When the sun dipped at Fandango, things on the midway got sorta quiet. That doesn’t mean the gang crashed for the night. They headed to the campground to kick-off the party. Every night kick-ass entertainment rattled the impromptu stage.

In other campsites, folks BBQ’d and shared time and road stories. Secretly, I think we all waited for Merle “The Pie Guy” to deliver some fantastic, juicy slices of pie. He also owns a beautiful ‘48 Panhead, one of the winners in our show.

Steve, the AMCA and the Cycle Source crew produced another flaming, fantastic, fun Fandago for 2024. Don’t miss it next year.

Hey,

Every week has a vibe. I started to watch a Jerry Lee Lewis documentary and he mentioned something I’ve felt a few times in life, pure Nirvana. He said he encountered BB King in a blues joint and listening to the blues and R&B tunes made him feel as if he had died and gone to heaven.

Sometimes these soulful occurrences happen as kids. Sometimes they happen encountering the vibration and rumble of a Harley. Sometimes they happen in the arms of a woman or at 5:00 in the morning, as you crest a hill and experience the rising sun on your fast-paced Dyna.

The point is Nirvana is there. It’s all around us but our minds must be open to the freedom to accept it.

Let’s hit the news.

–Bandit

Click here to read the Weekly News only on Bikernet.com

* * * *

Get Bikernet.com ? Get a Membership ! Click here to get your Kickstart today.

Hey,

Every week has a vibe. I started to watch a Jerry Lee Lewis documentary and he mentioned something I’ve felt a few times in life, pure Nirvana. He said he encountered BB King in a blues joint and listening to the blues and R&B tunes made him feel as if he had died and gone to heaven.

Sometimes these soulful occurrences happen as kids. Sometimes they happen encountering the vibration and rumble of a Harley. Sometimes they happen in the arms of a woman or at 5:00 in the morning, as you crest a hill and experience the rising sun on your fast-paced Dyna.

The point is Nirvana is there. It’s all around us but our minds must be open to the freedom to accept it.

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, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.

THE MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION MAY MOTORCYCLE SAFETY EFFORTS—MINNESOTA

Morning, after a noticeable absence, the Governor of Minnesota has made the proclamation that May is “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.”

Respectfully submitted
Dale Peterson – Iron Range M.C.,
Abate of Minnesota liaison to
National Coalition of Motorcyclists-
Region IV Co chair of NCOM,
Assistant state representative of our MRF.

ARKANSAS
Arkansas had their Motorcycle Awareness Proclamation reading today at Rock City Harley- Davidson as well as the ABATE of Arkansas Freedom Rally which containing HD Riders Edge coarse going on Grill & Chill, Show & Shine, Silent Auction. CMA Run for the Son.

–Rodney Farley

OREGON
Just left ABATE of Oregon/BikePac of Oregon’s Awareness Rally and the Governor’s May is Motorcycle Safety Ceremony.

I really appreciate the efforts State’s are putting forth, keep them coming.
–Hardtail
MRF

NEW HAMPSHIRE

NHMRO held the first annual NH Rides Day today with the NH Motorcycle Safety Task Force , vendors, food and other types of our motorcycling community.

We received the Proclamation for awareness month from the Governor and also from the Mayor of Manchester where the event took place.
We did safety demos and it was a great day !

–Traci

ALABAMA
This is excellent. Alabama’s had a LOT of fatalities so far this year. I wish I had time to put together a campaign like this.

Best,
–Kris Cook
Treasurer
Assistant Alabama State Representative
205-617-9944

INDIANA
Just FYI, here is what we’ve done in Indiana. We recorded the Zoom session which a number of media representatives attended and have made it available to several media outlets, after the fact. Additionally, we’ve been interviewed by television stations in four major Indiana media markets. Feel free to use any components of our press kit as you see fit. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact us.

Ride Safe,
Ride Free,
–Jay Jackson

INDIANA
May is Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month

Governor Eric Holcomb has proclaimed May as Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month in Indiana. This is in conjunction with a national campaign promoted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). As warmer weather arrives, more riders are taking to the streets after what is usually a several-month sabbatical during the winter. May presents the ideal time to remind motorists to look for motorcyclists, as well as offer tips for riders who have been inactive since last fall and could be a bit rusty.

This year is a little different than most. Generally, Indiana records very few, if any, motorcyclist fatalities from November through April. With a mild winter and early spring, motorcyclists were out more than usual during those months this year. Regrettably, we are off to a tragic start with three fatalities occurring in only four days, just in Indianapolis.

We all understand that sometimes things just happen. However, most motorcycle crashes are avoidable. Multiple-vehicle crashes where a motorist violates the rider’s right of way would not occur if drivers take the time to not only look but truly see motorcyclists. Single-vehicle crashes where the rider loses control are usually the result of the operator exceeding their limits. Knowing and riding within your limits is the responsibility of each motorcyclist.

Riders, especially new riders, who have not had the benefit of formal rider education, as well as those who are unlicensed or improperly licensed, continue to be over-represented in crashes. Enrolling in recognized rider training and being properly licensed and endorsed are steps that reduce the likelihood of being involved in a crash.

ABATE of Indiana urges bikers to be properly licensed and trained, continually develop and practice their skills, and be prepared to react to motorists who fail to see them. ABATE also asks drivers to be conscious of motorcyclists in traffic, allow riders ample space and share the road courteously with all road users.

Just like the bumper sticker says, “Save a life, be aware, motorcycles are everywhere”.

Indiana Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month ABATE Media Event

May 1, 2024 12:00 PM Indiana (East)

In recognition of Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month, ABATE of Indiana will hold a virtual media opportunity at noon on Wednesday May 1st. A short presentation of statistics and concerns, as well as some tips for riders and drivers will be followed by an opportunity to ask questions regarding motorcyclist safety.

You can also feel free to contact me directly, should you prefer an on-site interview or require further information.

Ride Safe, Ride Free,
Jay Jackson
Executive Director
ABATE of Indiana
Cell – 765-426-0048

THE MAY REPORT— Sent just a little update. It’s getting close. I built a battery tray out of the old super glide tray. Welded angle iron under it with threads. Two 5/16 bolts and the tray will slide right out. I couldn’t find a battery short enough to fit under the starter.

Finally found one but it only has 190 cca. I hope it will start it.

–Bill May

“Shit, my battery for the VLXAFL-5 only has only 120 cranking amps. Let’s see what happens.” –Bandit

DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS NEWS–
Later this month, on Memorial Day, we’ll honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. For those who stood shoulder to shoulder with our fallen heroes, this day of remembrance often carries an especially heavy weight.

That’s why during difficult times like these — and every day of the year — DAV will be there for the veterans who were able to return home, albeit forever changed because of their sacrifices.

Will you make a Memorial Day gift to DAV today and provide critical support for veterans healing from visible or invisible wounds of war?

Honor the sacrifices of our fallen. Support the veterans who returned home forever changed. Give Now

DAV is proud to provide critical support — at no cost — for ill and injured veterans and their families, caregivers and survivors. But we can only do this work with the help of our donors.

Please make a Memorial Day gift today in honor of a loved one — or for all our nation’s heroes. Your special gift will honor the fallen in an especially meaningful way — by providing life-changing support for veterans of all generations.

–Nancy G. Espinosa
DAV National Commander

“If you know of an American Vet from any war who is not a member sign ‘em up. The DAV helps!” –Bandit

BREAKING NEWS–Congress Introduces Resolution to Overturn EPA’s Tailpipe Regulation

In response to the EPA’s recently finalized tailpipe emissions standards for Model Years 2027 to 2032, which require automakers to ramp up electric vehicle sales to comply, U.S. Representative John James (R-MI) and U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution, H.J. Res. 136 and S.J. Res. 75, to overturn the regulation. SEMA strongly supports the CRA, which simply requires a majority vote in both the Senate and House in order to pass it.

Under the EPA’s tailpipe emissions standards, up to 83% of new vehicles sold by 2032 could be forms of electric vehicles. Congress must pass this resolution, which would stop the EPA’s regulatory overreach, allow consumers to have the freedom to decide which vehicle works best for their families, and prevent vehicle manufacturers from being forced to meet unrealistic mandates driven by the most aggressive motor vehicle emissions regulations in U.S. history.

–SEMA

Go to the SEMA website to send a letter encouraging your federal legislators to support the resolution

TRIKES OF THE WEEK—

–Sam Burns
Trike Curator
Bikernet.com™

QUOTE OF THE WEEK–

 “They say love is the best investment; the more you give, the more you get in return.”
– Audrey Hepburn

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–

THE WICKED BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for May 2, 2024

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/THE_WICKED_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_May_2_2024.aspx

I am honored to have been chosen the month’s 100-Word fiction winner.

Thank you…

–Rhys

NEW AND HOT FROM S&S–MK136 BLACK EDITION ENGINE

Introducing the next generation of Proven Performance for your 2017 & newer H-D Touring Models, the MK136 Engine.

This is the newest version of the complete crate engines S&S is known for, ready to install in your M8 Touring bike.

We took our MK-Series Crankcases, married them to the 136-inch cylinders and flywheels, and then fit High-flow cylinder heads with +1mm Valves and .605-inch springs. This huge displacement engine is sure to not only create huge power, but also put a huge smile on your face when you lay into the throttle. It is the purchaser’s responsibility to consider the suitability for their application. Engine noise and damage from abuse is not covered under warranty.

Fitment

2017-2023 Harley-Davidson M8 touring models (oil-cooled)

Features & Benefits

• Cylinder Heads – High-flow cylinder heads with premium seats, guides, valves, springs, and seals
• +1mm oversized intake and exhaust valves
• Valves are .030-inch longer than stock for improved valve-train geometry
• .605-inch max lift valve springs
• High-strength alloy used in cylinder head casting, improved strength at high temperatures
• Enlarged cooling passage around the exhaust seats • S&S Exclusive breather boxes

MK136

• Forged pistons
• S&S performance oil pump and cam support plate
• Premium tappets and tappet cuffs
• Billet aluminum covers • Sprocket shaft spacer included
• Champion spark plugs • Retains stock engine height
• Includes Cam Cover Badge
• Powder coat finish matches factory finish
• Huge displacement increase means a huge power increase
• Crankcase
• All premium quality components
• Patented Dual-Spray Piston Cooling Jets
• Precision machined oil scraper
• Enlarged oil sump
• Contoured floor allows oil to easily drain back to the sump
• 49-State MK136 Engine Calibration Information

MK136

S&S MK136 Engine Without Fuel And Ignition Systems

Chasis Style Finish
(RACE ONLY)

2017-2023 Touring Models

BIKERNET EDITORIAL–

Hey yo whoa: I have assigned myself the task, an enjoyable task, of creating COMMON SENSE.

2. Having Common Sense: 1 at hand and reading it for the first time, I am going to correct Mr. Paine’s erroneous assumptions while advancing his revolutionary ones and take his encouraging of Americans to break from England and advance that to encouraging humanity to break away from government altogether.

Mr. Paine points out in his first short paragraph that “time makes more converts than reason.” He says that because he has written a reasoned argument for his cause. He is quick to note that reason is routinely ignored in favor of custom. This will take some effort, a lot of it has been composed, but it is an effort of construction.

When you’re building something from the ground up and you can see the finished product in your head you enjoy the process. A lot of the stories I wrote for Easyriders on a ribbon and paper, when I was done, I was always reluctant to send it in immediately.

I was also often reluctant to finish the tale because that meant the process was over and I knew the end result way before hand, and I wanted to hold onto the process as long as possible. Same with this.

This will be my ray zone day tare. That’s French. I’m a bit of a cultured motherfucker. You could be thinking that saving humanity is a bit of a hard target to hit. Well, I don’t care if they get saved. But I DO think Christian charity if nothing else, and that would be basically all it is ‘cause fuck humanity.

But I think since I know what the essential problem is preventing the replacement of politics with job performance, or the public sector from the private sector….that I should inform everyone of it.

Apparently, no one else has figured out what the problem even is much less solve it.

Till next time!!

–J-dog

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE RALLIES OWNERS’ COMMUNITY TO SUPPORT FUNDRAISING EFFORT TO BENEFIT FOLDS OF HONOR—

Indian Motorcycle Owners Around the Country Come Together to Raise Funds for Nonprofit Organization Supporting the Families of Military Service Members & First Responders

Folds Of Honor Provides Educational Scholarships to the Spouses and Children of U.S. Military Service Members and First Responders Who Have Fallen or Been Disabled While Serving Our Country and Communities

Indian Motorcycle to Giveaway Custom Indian Springfield to Individual Who Raises the Most Funds, Additional Product & Prizes Offered for Various Levels of Donations

Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced a fundraising effort in partnership with Folds of Honor, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing families of fallen or disabled service members and first responders with life-changing educational scholarships. Rallying its owners’ community, Indian Motorcycle is coordinating regional owners’ rides around the country on August 24, 2024. Indian Motorcycle owners can donate and register to participate before midnight on August 24, 2024.

The fundraising effort encourages Indian Motorcycle owners’ groups from around the country to get involved by donating to the cause and participating in the Folds of Honor charity ride. Every contribution, regardless of size, fuels its mission of making a meaningful impact in the lives of the families of fallen or disabled service members and first responders. As a special incentive, Indian Motorcycle will gift the individual who raises the most funds with a brand-new, custom Indian Springfield. Additional product and prizes will be offered at various levels of contributions.

“Supporting U.S. military service members and first responders has always been core to our brand, which is why we’re excited to be partnering with Folds of Honor and rallying our owners to give back and support those families in need,” said Aaron Jax, Vice President for Indian Motorcycle. “As riders, we understand the power of community and the joy of giving back, and with our legion of owners all around the country, we are beyond excited to make an impact for such an important cause.”

For nearly 20 years, Folds of Honor has provided educational support to the families of fallen or disabled service members and first responders. Folds of Honor has awarded more than 52,000 educational scholarships totaling approximately $244 million in educational impact. Providing 45% of all scholarships to minority students, the organization is significantly impacting educational opportunities by fostering diversity and empowerment within academia.

“We are grateful to the team at Indian Motorcycle and to the proud patriots who ride,” said Lt Col Dan Rooney, Founder and CEO of Folds of Honor. “The individuals who participate in these nationwide rides have made a choice to never forget the sacrifices made by these American heroes and to help provide academic scholarships to their spouses and children.”

The Folds of Honor charity ride serves as one of many events featuring the Indian Motorcycle Riders Group (IMRG). With approximately 137 chapters and 7,500 riders from around the country, IMRG hosts hundreds of rides and events each year for members and general motorcycle riders alike. To learn more, visit the IMRG webpage.

Registration and donations are now available at the IMRG National Charity webpage. For more information, please visit IndianMotorcycle.com, or follow along on Facebook, X and Instagram.

To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.com.

LATEST 100-WORD ENTRY—- DIVIDE AND RUN

TJ on his ‘80 Super Glide, Budreu on his ‘80 Wide Glide and me on my ‘70 Electra Glide jammed. The local sheriff waited for us to make a slip up for days.

We knew all the back roads.

We left the Rusty Nail bar one night and spotted the Sheriff in our vibrating sideview mirrors. Three abreast, we pulled up to the only dingy stop light in town. He turned on his flashing cop lights, and we left on the hazy green signal in three different ways.

He pulled into the intersection and just sat there.

–Gearhead

HOLDING ONTO THE COMMON GROUND THAT UNITES US–

Bikers Inside the Beltway: an event deemed necessary to bring us together to hold onto the common ground that the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, partner SMROs and motorcycle clubs fought hard to gain. In 2009, when bikers conceived the idea of Bikers Inside the Beltway, the mission was and remains – united, we will send a clear message to Congress that motorcycling is worth protecting.

How is this for common ground that is under attack?

Autonomous vehicles tragically not built well enough to recognize motorcycles are killing motorcyclists with enough regularity for it to be more than just a “design flaw.”

Ethanol 15 – E15 fuel — now available year-round in eight midwestern states with little or no warnings at the pump that it will damage motorcycle engines, among others.

The Environmental Protection Agency, National Highway Transportation Safety Administration and their bosses at the Department of Transportation continually ignore requests from Congress to address the concerns of motorcyclists. The MRF is making sure that Congress addresses this request!
Without the Right to Repair, the threat to the livelihood of thousands of aftermarket motorcycle businesses increases to the point of putting them out of business – forever!

The end of the internal combustion engine will be the death knell of motorcycling.

All the above items are on the 2024 legislative priority list of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation. Bikers Inside the Beltway is where Congress hears our collective voice.

In 2023, motorcyclists attending Bikers Inside the Beltway visited all 535 congressional offices. That same orchestrated visit will be part of Bikers Inside the Beltway 2024. It is not too late to make plans to attend Bikers inside the Beltway – May 20 & 21, 2024. Event registration is free. However, we request that you register early to help us plan the event.

To ensure that the mission of getting our message to Congress continues to be successful, make your hotel reservations and please consider the following as you make plans to attend Bikers Inside the Beltway:

• Make your appointments locally or in Washington.
• Familiar with the briefing points. (Available at the pre-event briefing).
• Confirm your appointment locally or in Washington.
• Make notes on your meetings with members of Congress.
• Share your meeting notes with the MRF.

The MRF Board of Directors will meet on May 20th, before the trip to Capitol Hill. They will host a Q&A briefing scheduled for 7:00 p.m. that evening at the Embassy Suites, 1900 Diagonal Road, Alexandria, Virginia. Rooms are available through the hotel direct line 703-684-5900 and use reference code MRF.

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s Bikers Inside the Beltway is more than holding common ground — it is about protecting the future of motorcycling and the common ground that unites us!

Thank you for your commitment.

Yours in Freedom,
Fredric Harrell
MRF Director of Conferences & Events

[page break]

AMRA Harley Drags March Though Maryland

PennGrade1 AMRA All-American motorcycle drag racing series pre-race advance–

event: PennGrade1 AMRA Maryland Nitro Nationals
when: April 26-28, 2024
where: Cecil County Dragway in Rising Sun, Maryland USA

April showers brought nitro power to Cecil County Dragway, as the PennGrade1 AMRA Harley-Davidson drag racing series shook off a full day of Saturday rain to qualify and race on Sunday, April 28 at the Rising Sun, Maryland speed facility. The Maryland Nitro Nationals saw winlights flash for legends and those that will be.

Circle M Ranch/ Dove Fuels Top Fuel
When it comes to the living legends of Circle M Ranch/ Dove Fuels Top Fuel Harley, it’s hard to top “The Bulldog,” Jay Turner. These days, the North Carolina Hall of Famer most often shows up riding his ongoing ProCharged project bike. As that piece moves closer to competitiveness, Jay has seemed comfortable to cede the winners circle to others—and he works to see that it’s one of his teammates hoisting the trophy.

But when Randal Andras chose to skip Cecil County, Turner mounted Randal’s normally aspirated Nitro Harley and focused his own attention on the spoils of victory. He looked to have number one qualifier sewn up until Jordan Peterson’s 6.42 at 210 mph secured that honor on the Steve Horne-owned, Mike Romine-tuned bike he sometimes rides.

Peterson had the round one bye in eliminations, while Turner faced what would normally be his biggest challenge—the two-time and defending AMRA champ Ryan Peery. But Peery’s clutch has yet to awaken from its winter slumber and he spun the tire while Jay ran a 6.45 at 217—both lows for the round.

“Crazy, I’ve spun six of eight passes this year— more than I have the past two years combined,” said Peery. “My theory is the clutch hat springs are worn out. I’ve never been this light of weight on the primary fingers and it’s still blowing the tire off. I’m going to rebuild.”

Turner nudged his numbers to 6.44 at 219 to trailer AMRA’s own John “JT” Toth in the semis, while Peterson advanced past Virginia racer Robert “Ziggy” Stewart.

Turner’s .024 light put .020 on Peterson at the hit in the final, and his 6.42 at 219 kept Jordan’s 6.47 at 211 at bay in what was a great side-by-side, thundering final round.

“The Romine crew (Mike, Jack, and Patty) worked their asses off all weekend long,” said Peterson. “We tested Friday and ran a 6.42 off the trailer. We found out it hurt the engine on that test run and had to replace both cylinders. We qualified number one, and Romines gave me a bike that could win, but I dropped the ball. I didn’t ride very consistent, especially at the tree, and just made silly mistakes. I was very disappointed in myself. It’s one of those things you don’t get over until you can get back on the bike again.

“On the plus side, bike owners Steve and Doug Horne were able to attend this race, and they dove right in with a helping hand between rounds. Plus, with Doug’s riding experience, he was right there with advice. I can’t thank enough the Romines, the Horne family, and Horne Concrete for the opportunity to race this bike again. Also, thanks to my girlfriend Casey Jo (AKA Sluggo) for being extremely supportive and willing to help anyway she can.”

Nitro Funnybike
Nitro Funnybike champion Jim Doyle made his first appearance of 2024 pay big time, qualifying number one and taking the win over Jason Leeper. Doyle took the tree .040, then easily built more of a gap as Leeper took a Pro Fuel bike to the Funnybike final round for the second straight race.

“I was trying some new things that improved the bottom end but hurt the top end of the run,” said Doyle. “Even with the cold weather I didn’t hurt anything on the bike, but I still had enough to get the win.

“The cold and rain didn’t give the fuel bikes much of a chance to run. Cold temps and nitro don’t go well together. The AMRA and the track did a great job getting the race completed.

“Thanks to Gerry Renaud from B+R Machine and the Lamaroux Brothers from Genden Car Quest Auto Parts.”

Hawaya Racing Pro
The Nitro Funnybike field was hit pretty hard with mechanical carnage at Cecil County, but not so for Hawaya Racing Pro Fuel. The carbureted nitro bikes traded punches every round, with “Bad Apple Mary” Dangrow punching longest for the win.

Sam White started his Pro Fuel title defense with a win in Louisiana and looked strong in Maryland, qualifying number one with a 7.23 at nearly 175 mph. But even while racing to the final, White started looking vulnerable as the day went on. A development part was failing, along with Sam’s hopes for the win.

Dangrow, meanwhile, had consistency on her side and delighted the locally strong Bad Apple faithful with the final round winlight.

“This was the first race with the Maxx Race ECU on my bike, so we came planning to collect as much data as we could since we have none on this bike,” said Dangrow. “I ran with no computer and a Dyna ignition on this bike since I got it, so no one knows what normal is for this bike.

“I was one of the (racers) able to make a pass on Saturday for qualifying before the rains came. That pass was a slow pass for us and it turns out I hurt the rear piston and spit some oil out on the track. But unfortunately or fortunately for us, two Pro Fuel bikes were unable to qualify before the rain, so our run was tossed out and we re-qualified on Sunday morning.

“Tracy (Kile, Mary’s man and the Big Bad Apple), Jon Wayne Stephens, and Frankie (Capone) pushed my bike into the trailer and replaced my cylinder and piston and took apart my oil pump to be sure there were no issues there. With everything back together we were ready for qualifying Sunday morning.

“We progressively worked through some issues on Sunday. Things popped up and the guys handled them calmly like champs. We worked our way through rounds and once again found ourselves in the final against Sam. He’s a tough one to face.

“Cecil County Dragway is a special place for Bad Apple Racing with many of our friends and family attending. They come every year to see us and with Tracy unable to ride right now, his words to me on the way to the track were ‘No pressure, but you know I’ve won the most races in my career at Cecil County and that is a home track to me, so we’re all counting on you.’ Yeah, no pressure?!

“This was also a special win because Tracy’s brother Steven Pier (the 2012 AHDRA Pro Fuel champ) was here this year. With the passing of their mom in February, I really wanted a win so I could have a picture of the three of us together in the winners circle. I was so happy when I got that.

“I’d like to thank my sponsors Vanson Leathers, Capone Landscape, and Fairview Tavern for doing what they do so Tracy and I can do this. Also on board this year is Ted Munsell from Trick Works. I need to thank Ted for the amazing paint work on my bike.

“As always, the support from the Nitro Harley family is indescribable and greatly appreciated. Many from Top Fuel and Pro Fuel are willing to help me learn and get better. The support of the Bad Apple Nation is second to none and of course, none of this would be possible without my biggest supporter Tracy Kile. I am truly blessed that the good Lord made our paths cross. All glory be to God!”

Pro Modified
Pro Modified champ Billy Doherty wanted more competition after his Louisiana win and he got it at Cecil County. Still, he was able to qualify number one with an 8.52, a couple of ticks below 158 mph.

Keith Carper took the tree by a whopping .166 in the final but encountered problems on his run, while Doherty streaked to an 8.42 low ET for the class at the event.

“I left home not feeling well,” said Doherty. “I self-doctored myself and thought that I had gotten better by the race.

“This was the first race of the year with the Banana and Larry Pratt (Bimbo) at the races. On Saturday we had the best air but didn’t capitalize on it with a time that we were happy with during qualifying. We were number one qualifier but we knew we were off.

“Bimbo and I put our heads together and from that point on each pass got faster and faster through the weekend. I ran our fastest time in the finals at 8.42 for the win. That was a good thing because I was slow on the tree all weekend.

“The reason showed up when I got home. I went to the doctor to find out I had a serious upper respiratory infection. We are now turning our attention to Norwalk for our next race of the season.”

Axtell Cylinders Hot Street and Outlaw Street
Charley Douglass took two wins at Cecil County, Axtell Cylinders Hot Street and Outlaw Street. He was unopposed in Outlaw, but qualified number one and took the Hot Street final against Joe Petersen. Douglass took the tree and out-ran Petersen on track.

“This was the first race of the year for Douglass Racing,” said Charley. “I did a complete frame-up tear-down of my Outlaw Harley in the off-season and didn’t get it back together in time to make this race. I made some small changes to my Hot Street motor over the off-season, so I rode it in Outlaw street and Hot street. Some of my competitors also had trouble getting their bikes completed.

“With no testing, I was a little rusty. Saturday morning I realized my rear exhaust pipe was broke. Jay Turner welded it up for me—thanks again Jay! My first pass the shift solenoid stuck and dumped all the air out of the system. I replaced the solenoid just in time to make the Outlaw pass.

“Fast forward to Sunday. Between my dad and I, we had three number one qualifiers and three wins!

I want to thank Kent Foltz at Energy one clutches, Chad Hart at Xlxbhorsepower, Steve Alsteadt, Andy Simon Sr., CP-Carrillo, Lynchburg H-D, Joe Perry at Joe’s parts, Brian at line 2 Line Coatings, and Dan Dafner at R&D machine/ Axtell cylinders for sponsoring the Hot Street class.

“I want to thank my dad for always being there for me and the biggest news—my wife Angel was back with me at the racetrack after five years of staying home to take care of her parents. This was bittersweet because we lost both of them last year. We also have our German Shepard pups racing with us this year. One of my best friends for over 35 years also hung out with us this weekend. Johnny and some cousins came to cheer us on Sunday.

“I spent some time with Dave, the AMRA chaplain, and enjoyed the church service Sunday morning. I want to thank God for watching over us and keeping us safe. Got Jesus? We are looking forward to a Great year of racing!”

Zippers Performance Modified
Like his son Charley was in Outlaw Street, Gary Douglass was unopposed and won Zippers Performance Modified.

“Made some gearing changes (in the off-season), nothing major,” reported Gary. “The change made no improvement in performance, so back to the old.

“Being the first race of the year for me, showed at the tree. Ran some decent numbers but can do better. Disappointed in the turnout, but that’s racing.

“Thanks to Charley and Angel for taking care of me. Also, my friends Lewis Armstrong and Johnny Sim

onetti for their help getting me to the staging lanes and back. Cecil County Dragway knows how to prep a track. They have the equipment and personnel, thank you.

“Thanks to Zippers Performance for sponsoring the Mod class. Thanks to Energy One for their continued support and friendship. Thanks to Jerry Johnson and Billy Mathias. Thanks to Tim Hailey and Tom McCarthy for their continued excellence in coverage and photography.”

Thundermax Street Eliminator 11.50
Hot Street runner-up Joe Petersen went on to win the Thundermax Street Eliminator 11.50 final over Kenny Satterlee when Satterlee committed the cardinal sin of index and bracket racing. As a wounded Petersen slowly limped down track, Satterlee didn’t look back and broke out with an 11.497. Petersen won with 2.37 light and a 20.504 pass at 29 mph!

“This is a special race win for me, as Cecil was the last track I raced at with my mentor and friend Robert “Brain” Dumas of B&J Cycles in Ayer, Massachusetts.

“This was the first event with a brand new bike entirely built in the house at Performance Cycles Of Wilmington, inc. The new bike ‘Amazon’ won 11.50 and runner-upped in Hot Street My black bike ‘F-Bomb’ went to the semifinals in ET.

“Almost turned around on the way to the track. (I was) disappointed in my dyno-tuning prior to the race. Made the best out of what I had. Thank God and family!

Thundermax Street Bagger
Dave “Paco” Cartwright qualified number one and won Thundermax Street Bagger. The slender Evansville, Indiana, rider gave up .106 at the tree to his teammate Jeff Boudreaux in the final, but Boudreaux slowed and Cartwright kept his steady 9.90s pace rolling for the win.

“I just came on board with these guys,” Cartwright said about the Mutant Motors by Wolf team that fields his Road King. “It’s amazing what I’ve learned in the last few months being on this team, how professional they are. Been a pleasure working with them. Totally dedicated to the sport and the AMRA.

“Had a really bad outing in Louisiana, so we went from zero to hero.

Just wanted to go A to B and consistent 9.90s

Cartwright thanked the team, Wolf Grasser of Mutant Motors, Dan Fitzmaurice and Zipper’s Performance, Dan Daffner and Axtell, Bobby Wood of Wood Performance, VP racing, JT’s Auto and Cycle, and supporters Meg and Chris Mann, Jay Dekerlegand, and Poppa Boudreaux.

“We’re looking forward to Ohio.

Top Eliminator 9.30 and Super Gas 9.90
Chris Hoppe and Cody Hayworth traded a couple of wins and runner-ups at Cecil County. Hoppe beat number one qualifier Hayworth in the Top Eliminator 9.30 final, running closer to the number with a 9.31 after giving up .011 at the tree.

“We had a great weekend at Cecil County,” said Hayworth. “Went number one qualifier the first time I ever raced in 9.30! This is our 9.90 bike from last year that we put some new XLXBhorsepower pistons in over the off season, and it put us right on the number. Bike ran great all weekend, went to the finals with Mr. Hoppe and it went right down to the wire. He pulled out the W with a stellar 9.31 to my 9.36.”

Hoppe runner-upped to Robert Alther in Super Gas 9.90, giving up .044 at the tree and straying too far off the index as well, as Alther’s 10.01 sealed the deal against Hoppe’s 10.17.

“Not to start off on a bad note, but my wife passed away May 2023,” said Alther. “She was my partner and teammate in racing my whole career. Continuing without her hasn’t been easy, but she was the driving force behind me. This win is for her, I love and miss you Mel.”

Pro Eliminator 10.90
Cody Hayworth won Pro Eliminator 10.90, beating octogenarian Bill Grove in the final. Hayworth’s .023 caught Grove sleeping with a .161 and was able to cruise to the win with an 11.11 to Grove’s sharper 10.90. Brad Reiss Jr. qualified number one.

“In 10.90 we qualified fourth and rode it all the way to the finals,” said Hayworth. “A familiar foe in Bill Grove was our opponent for the finals, where we took home the chicken dinner!

“I want to thank my entire family for making all of this possible, and all the racers and sponsors for keeping this awesome sport alive. Last but not least, the wonderful guys behind the lens—Tim Hailey and Tom McCarthy.”

BK Electric Super Pro 10.30
John Shotts qualified number one and won BK Electric Super Pro 10.30, taking the final round over National Anthem singer Heather Jendruch. Shotts had a small .012 advantage off the starting line and ran a 10.37 to Jendruch’s straying 10.53.

“Well it was a tough weekend for us,” said Shotts. “I was running three index classes: 9.30, 9.90 and the 10.30. The previous race in Louisiana, we came up short with two runner-ups in the 9.90 and 10.30 classes, and we’ve had a long dry spell on getting a win. But all in all it was a good weekend for us and this win put me in first place in the 10.30 index points.

“Thanks to Jimmy and Carol that help me at the track and my sponsors 7th Ward Tap and Barlow Plumbing Service.”

Eliminator Dial-in
After a long day of timed runs and racing, Bob Willis took the Eliminator Dial-in final over William Quinn. Neither rider posted a reaction time to brag about, with Willis’ .173 having the advantage over Quinn’s .291. Willis ran a 9.72 against his 9.64 dial, while Quinn was 10.79 on a 10.70.

“Good event overall,” said Willis. “Put the one bike in the winner’s circle. Ironically it was the bike I had clutch issues with all weekend. First hit off the trailer was great 9.32 then slowed to the 9.60s by the end of the event but got the job done.

“Super Gas in the money with bike two. Lost in the semifinals. Bike was good rider was not—crazy bad light!

“Like to thank Greg Baugh and his wife for always putting on a good event. Also my girl Kelly for getting everything ready and prepared for all the race trips.”

Zipper’s Performance Pro Bagger
Matt Hillen won Zipper’s Performance Pro Bagger on his 120″ Twin Cam, bone stock frame ‘99 FLH with an MS3PRO ECM. “Built, tuned by me,” said Hillen, who thanked Eatmyink Motorsport Media for coverage of the races.

Shutdown Area
AMRA’s Greg and Julia Baugh, and John “JT” Toth and Marianne Miller get right back at it at the Disney World of dragstrips—Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio. AMRA welcomes the whole Harley-Davidson drag racing family to the Ohio Nitro Nationals on May 17-19.

AMRA thanks PennGrade1 oil, Zipper’s Performance, Hawaya Racing, Axtell Cylinders, BK Electric, Johnny Mancuso’s Circle M Ranch, Dove Fuels and Thunder Max.

Visit AMRA website for more.

THE 5-BALL RACING REPORT—There’s more stuff coming from Frankie’s creative brain from wild tattoos to new apparel.

Check out his shop if you have the misfortune to be in LA.

He’s going to send me one of these helmets made by an HA member in Ventura, CA.

Hang on for 5-Ball Bikinis.

–Bandit

COLORADO BANS ELECTRIC–

On the last day of session, Colorado legislators finally gave final approval to SB 24-065: A Bill CONCERNING THE USE OF MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICES WHEN 102 DRIVING A MOTOR VEHICLE, AND, IN CONNECTION THEREWITH, 103 MAKING AN APPROPRIATION.

Colorado passes bill outlawing hand-held use of cellphones by drivers (denverpost.com)

Thanks to all (ABATE of Colorado/Stump) who worked tirelessly with the Colorado legislature to get this bill passed. We have pursued similar legislation for several years without success. Tenacity pays off.

–Deb Craig
MRF Corporate Secretary

THE EV WEEKLY BIKERNET REPORT–

Money Mail can today reveal a timebomb looming in the second-hand market for electric vehicles (EVs).

Our investigation found that many EVs could become almost impossible to resell because of their limited battery life.

Experts said that the average EV battery guarantee lasts just eight years. After this time, the battery may lose power more quickly and so reduce mileage between charges.

Many EVs will lose up to 12 per cent of their charge capacity by six years. Some may lose even more.

Yet the cost of replacing an EV battery is astonishingly high, our research found.

A five-year-old Renault Zoe costs £9,100 but a new battery will set you back £24,124

In some cases, the cost of a replacement battery is as much as £40,000. For certain EVs, the cost of replacing the battery could be ten times the value of the vehicle itself on the second-hand market.

That means used EVs have a limited lifespan — which makes them a bigger and bigger risk as the years go by.

Research into EV batteries is yet to be conclusive and the second-hand EV market is new, given the first popular EVs were rolled off the production line in 2009.

Last night, one motoring expert said customers should be wary of buying a used electric car beyond its warranty (typically eight years), as after that timespan there is no easy way of measuring how much the battery will degrade before it needs replacing.

This may mean you end up needing to pay for an expensive new battery.

Motor expert Shahzad Sheikh, who runs the YouTube channel Brown Car Guy, said: ‘With a decaying battery, the range will be poor and you may find it becomes increasingly hard to resell the vehicle after eight years.

Buyers will know that they’ll only get a small amount of life out of the car so will pay only a small sum, if anything at all.’

This problem is exacerbated by the fact all new cars coming onto the market by 2035 are forced to be electric and motorists will have to get used to paying around £10,000 more than it’s petrol equivalent, for a vehicle which is not built to last as long.

Take a new petrol-driven Renault Clio — it costs around £20,000, while its all-electric opposite, the Renault Zoe, costs closer to £30,000.

While you can drive a traditional petrol or diesel car for around 200,000 miles over 14 years before the engine needs fixing or replacing, by comparison a new EV is typically guaranteed under a warranty for 100,000 miles over eight years.

And there are external factors at play with battery degradation — including use of fast chargers and even a colder climate.

The high cost of EV batteries is a result of it being difficult to mine metals such as nickel, cobalt, lithium and manganese that are used in the lithium-ion batteries.

They are also in demand for the production of other electronics, including mobile phones and laptops.

–by Paul Homewood

[page break]

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM NEWS—

Expansion report: We had a terrific meeting with the Heavy Constructors crew, Jack, Bob and Dave. We have our homework assignments moving forward. We must nail down, as best we can, the size and elements associated with the building.

On our side was Woody, Me, Kirk Willard and Darcy. Woody said we need to write, “Why?” A short ditty, maybe a paragraph about why we need to expand the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum? I’m open to suggestions. Here’s my initial Mantra: It needs to be a world class museum for the Museum’s Future, for the Historic Sturgis Rally, for the City of Sturgis and for the Riders and the Motorcycle Industry World Wide. When a rider or a collector anywhere in the world says they want their collection in a Museum, the first museum to come to mind is and will continue to be the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. “Why? Because Sturgis is the spiritual center of motorcycling and the bikes in our museum have both souls and stories to tell,” said Kirk Willard, board member and president of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation.

“I was just pondering an example of how someone else raised the $ for a very expensive building with only a drawing and an appealing why,” said Woody, the boss of the Buffalo Chip. “And, of course, it isn’t about the building – it’s about having a building that is “better” than any other to serve the company’s mission.”

• WHY is there a need for a Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & HOF
• WHY can’t that need be met with existing facilities?
• WHY is this exactly what’s needed?
• WHY should it matter to the prospect?

Curation Committee: They met and approved three new/old motorcycles to be included in our exhibits. “The 1914, and restored 1916 Harleys were approved for acceptance,” said board member Kirk Willard. “They also approved a very rare 1929 and race worn 1929 DL H-D hillclimber ridden by Reiman.” It actually competed in the Jack Pine Gypies Hill Climb competition in Sturgis back in the day.

The curation committee approved the Michael Lichter photography we plan to use in the gift shop to introduce customers to the history of the Sturgis Rally. It’s my turn to get to work on the layout.

Marketing Meeting: We held our very first Sturgis Motorcycle Museum marketing meeting. Holy moly, with Marilyn Stemp, Steve Piehl, myself and Heidi on the committee, we covered everything from magazine distribution to business cards, web site, events and ads. Hang on.

–Bandit

THE IMA REPORTS IN–Protecting the Right to Modify is Protecting Our Culture

There are many different aspects of modification to be considered. The Right to Modify is the basis of our culture considering young men coming back from WWII no longer wanted the full-fendered accessory laden motorcycles. Personalization is what separates motorcycles from other modes of transportation. A new biker will start personalizing his or her bike immediately with different grips, pipes, intakes or whatever trim detail grabs them.

Performance modifications are popular because of the exhilaration you feel every time you blast down the Highway. Performance mods are the most threatened by local, state or national government agencies. The claim is our performance mods pollute and are too difficult to control, so the preference is to just ban them.

They would like to see performance bikes purchased only through franchise dealers i.e. the Dodge Demon. The main problem is the factory performance bike cost is prohibitive and eliminates the variety of personal performance choices. When it comes to customization and performance products, you can count on the styles of intakes and exhaust to be minimized due to increased costs of compliance.

The other threat to customization is the reduction in choices of paint, metal finishes and materials. The idea of being able to add a few accessories or build a custom bike from the ground up makes motorcycles more personal than cars.

I believe the biker culture we live today started at the end of World War II. The boys who left home to protect our way of life came back as men with an unrest that could only be satisfied by the open road.

Hence, the beginnings of the bobber/chopper style we still enjoy today. The first mods were simple; chopped fenders, abbreviated seats, higher handlebars, longer front ends and of course drag pipes.

Once most of the weight was reduced to make the bikes go faster then came internal engine components, most notably S&S who is still producing performance parts today. A distinct characteristic of this time was the freedom to do what you want, not to conform and most importantly not be controlled.

Our current political leadership doesn’t understand CO2 or the climate and wants to control everything. I know what’s best for me as opposed to some elitist in Washington D. C. We must hold strong now and demand scientific truth. Government agencies, including the EPA are reducing our ability to tune our bikes every day.

The IMA and MRF need your support to continue the battle to protect our rights. You can do nothing and ignore the signs of excess government intervention in our lives, or join today and fight back!

BABE RIDERS OF THE WEEK—

–Sam Burns
Talent Scout
Bikernet.com™

LEGAL SHOWDOWN: 26 States File Lawsuits Targeting ATF Anti-Gunner Rule
Jeff Charles

In a remarkable move, 26 states have launched a legal counterattack against the Biden administration’s assault on the Second Amendment. The states filed lawsuits against the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Justice Department on Wednesday.

At the heart of the matter is a new ATF rule finalized on April 19, 2023, that requires thousands of law-abiding gun owners to register as firearms dealers. The rule derives from the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, a federal anti-gunner law passed in the aftermath of one of several high-profile mass shootings:

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach announced their multi-state coalitions at a joint press conference in Frisco, Texas, on Wednesday.

The announcement was the first time Paxton has held a press conference about official state business since he was impeached last year. Paxton was the first Texas attorney general to be impeached in state history after 60 Texas House Republicans voted to impeach him on 20 counts. He was acquitted by the Senate last September.

The states sued the ATF and the Department of Justice and their effective heads over a new ATF rule the Biden administration finalized on April 19. The administration argues the rule is implementing aspects of the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act spearheaded by Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas.

The lawsuit is being filed by two coalitions led by Texas and Kansas.

The Texas coalition includes Louisiana, Missouri, and Utah. Their lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court Northern District of Texas Amarillo Division:

The Kansas coalition includes Arkansas, Iowa, Montana, Alabama, Alaska, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Their lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas Delta Division.

Paxton framed the legal battle as a fight to defend constitutional freedoms, stating, “Yet again, Joe Biden is weaponizing the federal bureaucracy to rip up the Constitution and destroy our citizens’ Second Amendment Rights.”

President Joe Biden has relied on the ATF to advance his anti-gunner agenda due to failed attempts to get Congress to pass the radical anti-gunner legislation he promised on the campaign trail. This is the reason why the administration seeks to redefine who qualifies as a firearms dealer. It would require those who sell only a few guns per year to register, undergo background checks, and maintain records. These are requirements typically reserved for commercial dealers.

The ATF’s rule is a prime example of constitutional overreach of executive power, and a violation of the Second Amendment. It is a brazen effort to make it harder for people to keep and bear arms.

Moreover, requiring individuals to register as firearms dealers involves not only federal oversight but would place an unnecessary financial burden on these folks. From licensing fees to potential penalties for non-compliance, it is clear the rule is intended to discourage people from selling their personal firearms.

The complexity of the world of selling firearms is already difficult enough to navigate. This rule will only make it worse. As Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach highlighted: “Biden’s latest attempt to strip away the Second Amendment rights of Americans through ATF regulations will make many law-abiding gun owners felons if they sell a firearm or two to family or friends.”

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody also chimed in, slamming the rule for its potential to “force thousands of law-abiding gun owners to navigate a federal bureaucracy as a precondition to engaging in constitutionally protected activity.”

As the lawsuits progress, they will highlight not only the rule in question, but also the larger debate over the push to use federal executive power to infringe on the right to keep and bear arms. We’ll keep you posted on any developments.

Jeff Charles is the host of “A Fresh Perspective” podcast. He is a contributor for RedState, Newsweek Opinion and also has a Substack called “Chasing Liberty.” Jeff is also a freelance writer and political contributor who has appeared on Fox News, The Hill’s “Rising,” Fox Soul, Newsmax, and the First TV Network. He enjoys reading, binging TV shows, learning to play the banjo (badly), and all things nerdy. He also believes that any steak cooked above medium rare is burnt, and an abomination. Check out all of his information. You can follow him on Twitter: @jeffcharlesjr

–Redstate.com

PIRELLI AND JASON WATERS— Set New Motorcycle Track Record at Roebling Road Raceway

Waters Sets New Lap Record of 1:09.897 Aboard BMW S 1000 RR, Equipped with
Pirelli DIABLO Superbike Slick Tires

Pirelli congratulates Jason Waters on setting the new absolute motorcycle track record at Roebling Road Raceway in Bloomingdale, Georgia, during the WERA motorcycle road racing regional round on Saturday, May 4. Waters’ new lap record of 1:09.897 was set aboard a BMW S 1000 RR equipped with Pirelli DIABLO Superbike slick tires.

Jason Waters set the new lap record of 1:09.897 at Roebling Road Raceway | Photo: Motorsport Photo LLC

“It was an exceptional day at Roebling Road Raceway,” said Waters. “Breaking the lap record was beyond my expectations. Pirelli’s dedication to delivering top-tier performance from their DIABLO Superbike slicks was evident throughout the race, and I’m grateful for their support.”

Waters set the new lap record during the A Superstock class race and relied on the performance of Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike 125/70 R17 SC1 front and DIABLO Superbike 200/65 R17 SC0 rear tires.

“Jason’s accomplishment represents a new standard of excellence,” said Oscar Solis, Senior Racing Manager, Pirelli. “Setting track records requires precision and skill, particularly at a circuit like Roebling Road Raceway. We commend Jason on his achievement and are proud to have played a part in his success. This underscores Pirelli’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance in motorcycle racing.”

Waters relied on the performance of DIABLO Superbike SC1 front and SC0 rear slicks. 

This record-breaking performance is a testament to Pirelli’s ongoing pursuit of excellence in motorcycle racing. As we look ahead, Pirelli remains dedicated to supporting riders like Waters as they continue to raise the bar in motorcycle road racing across the globe.

NEWS FROM THE BIKERNET TEXAS WEATHERMAN— So you drive up to an apartment gate system, the entry gate is broken & stuck open as usual. No one is trying to come through it, why do you pull up to the closed exit gate and wait for it to open? Inquiring minds want to know?

Took the bars off the Dyna so I’d stop riding it, before I damage the engine. Needs chains and lifters, anyway I think they look good on the Shovelhead. Need to remember to add a helicoil to the crossover pipe mount on the primary, my stick in bolt came out & the pipe was no where to be seen. As it had rotated almost all the way over to the road, usually I grab it and stick it back in the headpipe.

Believe I may be stuck in Houston, new home prices are crazy! Which makes 2 car garage rentals just as crazy and VA loans are no longer no money down by the builders. So I guess I’ll pull the FXRP fairing to paint it, as I may be here a while. 6 month lease $500 more a month, one year $20.00 more, I’m trapped!

MC Creations Iron Cylinder Run coming up Memorial Day weekend

RFR-FXR Life
Official Regional Weather Reporter
Bikernet.com™

HERE’S THE OMG REPORT OF THE WEEK—

IndieWire: Only 9.6 percent of 250 films analyzed passed a Bechdel Test created for climate change. Last month, non-profit group Good Energy launched what it called a Bechdel Test for Climate Change, a simple set of criteria designed to determine if it was clear climate change was present in a film. The real Allison Bechdel even endorsed it.

As part of the “Climate Reality Check,” just three movies nominated for Oscars this year passed the test’s two simple rules: “Climate change exists” and “a character knows it.”

Now a more extensive study published by Good Energy and Colby College’s Buck Lab for Climate and Environment has analyzed 250 of the top grossing movies between 2013 and 2022 under the same criteria. Global warming has been with us for a while now, but only 12.8 percent — 32 of the 250 films studied in that time span — even passed the first criteria saying that climate change exists. Only 24 films, or 9.6 percent, passed both criteria of the test.

–Climate Depot

BRAND NEW TERRY THE TRAMP REVIEW-–

Amazon finally sent me an email to review Terry the Tramp, so I left this one:

K. Randall Ball is an incredibly gifted writer. He takes the reader right into the very experience of old outlaw MC life. The story of Terry the Tramp is one a lot of us have known for years, and is also very interesting for anyone unfamiliar with his life on two wheels leading one of the biggest MCs in the USA. By the time you finish reading the book, you feel as if you know Terry’s club brothers. The book also enlightens the reader to how corrupt cops and our justice system can be. I highly suggest this book.

***Thanks again for all you have done and continue to do in the Two Wheeled World.

–Dave

THE LAST New Bikernet Reader Comment!–Chop N Grind Surfaces

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Chop_N_Grind_Surfaces.aspx

Have seen these guys race on the salt l flats Utah. They were very professional and friendly group. Also my son is one of the founder’

–Linda Oliver
Rupert , ID

WHAT IS DBT?–Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Zen Buddhism. Created by Marsha Linehan, it was originally used to treat Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Now it is used to treat many different emotional dysregulation and impulse control disorders and symptoms.

DBT is made up of many skills that help you regulate your emotions, improve your relationships and withstand times of distress without impulsivity. These skills take practice to incorporate into your daily life. They work like a muscle, building up strength with practice over time. DBT teaches you which skills are best used when and how best to apply them.

The ultimate goal of DBT is to build a “life worth living.” It has a few core components that help you do this:

The first is the principle of dialectics. Black and white thinking is common among people with BPD and others. Dialectics is the shades of gray in between. The idea is that two opposing things can both be true. It’s something that learners have to accept.

Another core component is Mindfulness. In fact, it’s the first of four modules in the treatment program. Mindfulness practice helps you live in the moment and stop holding onto painful emotions. It also helps you gain the space from the troubling situation that you need to use other DBT skills.

DBT is evidence-based, meaning that there is research supporting its effectiveness. Data show reduced rates of suicidality, hospitalizations, and self-injury. Research on the efficacy of DBT for various disorders is ongoing.

The core of DBT is that there is a therapeutic alliance, where the professional and client are on the same level with no hierarchy and goals are to agree upon. DBT views clients as an ally who work together for solutions to help the client.

https://dbtselfhelp.com/what-is-dbt/

IN MEMORY OF HARLEY THE DOG— Oh Fully Realized One. Here is the memorial I read over my beloved big dog Harley at the moment of his death It’s what I believe happens to all sentient beings including me and you in our next life. Does it ring your bell too?

–Hugh King
Director
Biker Build-Offs
Discovery Channel

THIS IS NUTS—But I’m trying. I need to apologize. I have a list of content. It’s not complete and on the site, but it should be.

I have a cool piece from the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum magazine about active race bikes in and around the Museum.

Bikernet longtime contributor Bob T. pointed out the arrow above his door after he saw mine.

I spotted Mike Kane or “The Fucking Bastard,” in the recent issue of the AMCA magazine. It’s one of the best mags out, but you must be a member. He’s in the center, but he built the other bikes. Neat and talented guy.

Just about finished wiring the VLXAFL-5 Knucklehead. Way too many interruptions.

Katmandu sent me a story about a women’s ride in Florida. Hang on, it’s coming.

I’m sorta bummed. I sold the house in Deadwood, but I did buy a cool old vintage building in Sturgis on Main. Hang on for project reports.

Foggy in the morning, it hailed in the evening. Never dull. The Chevy is running, but stumbling again. I should just grab the wrenches and go to work…

Another story by Chris Callen I’m behind on. He sent coverage of Fandango in Texas. Maybe tomorrow.

Found an old funky barbed wire adorned wooden picture frame. This will be the perfect Michael Lichter photo. Hang on.

Try to relax, take a ride, feel the wind and fight for freedom to return.

–Bandit

Editor’s Note: Enclosed is a post by Dave Arthur called “Buy an electric car, go to prison.” It’s first rate shit from an original Satans Slave. I asked him if I could send it to you. He said not a problem. This dude’s a first rate communicator and totally with a 1%er genuine article disposition and ability-rating. He’s older than me and living life 24 hours a day non-stop. PLUS he can fucking think and express himself.

–J.J. Solari

The other day I was talking to someone who was thinking of buying an electric car. I told him he should first get to know a good bail bondsman and a lawyer. I told him that I am serious about this.

This is the vision I have.

You buy an electric car, you think you are helping the environment. You completely ignore the pollution caused from pit mining in order to get the materials to make the batteries. You also ignore the problems of disposing of these batteries in landfills or wherever once they are used up.

Maybe you buy the electric car cause you want to save money by not buying gasoline. You ignore the fact that it still costs plenty of money to charge the batteries in these cars. Electricity is far from free. You also ignore the initial cost of these cars which is one third or more higher than a comparable gasoline powered mode.

Maybe you think if you’re not buying gas you will soon recoup the difference. You weren’t too good at math. It might take eight or nine years to recoup that money in gas savings, but by then the car-battery will be no good anymore and you will need a new car. What about disposing the old one?

So what does all that have to do with going to prison because you bought an electric car. The answer is “nothing.” Now you own the car and you are starting to drive it. You like how quiet it is and how fast it seems. You like doing your part to save the world from certain destruction oblivious to the fact that 99% of the people in the world are not driving electric cars and you driving one won’t do anything to change whatever is happening to the climate, if anything.

In any event you bought the damn thing and you are happy, this is all about to change. Reality is about to set in. You look at your gauges, and you see that you only have 30 miles left before the car will need a charge. Luckily you are in the city so there should be a charger available close by.

You drive a few more miles and you spot the sign claiming the special place where you can charge an electric car. With a smiling face you pull into the spot thinking to yourself what good luck you have, no one else is here and there are two chargers.

As you walk up to the charger, it looks as if the cord has been cut or broken and there is a yellow plastic sign hanging there that says “OUT OF ORDER.” You walk over to the other one and it also has the same sign hanging there but at least it still has a cord. You try to hook your car to it, but it still doesn’t work.

You resign yourself to the fact that you have just wasted 10 minutes, but at least you still have 20 miles left before you run out of battery. As you are leaving you notice several cars filling up their gas tanks at the gasoline pumps located at this very same station with the electric car chargers. They are filling up rapidly and leaving.

Since you’re here already, you stop your car and walk over to the attendant to ask him what’s wrong with the charger. He tells you that it’s been broken for two weeks. They are waiting for parts before it will be fixed.

You leave and drive six more miles to another charging station that your IPhone led you to. You notice other cars there, so you figure at least it must be working. You talk to the guy in front of you and he tells you that the owner of the car on the charger should be done in about 20 more minutes, if he only wants a quick charge.

He also says that he wants a full charge because he needs to drive to some town which is 150 miles away. He says his type of charge will take over an hour and that maybe you should get in the other line as it might be quicker.

You agree and move to the other line. You are now starting to get aggravated. So you sit in your new car playing the XM radio because the battery is no longer a concern. You sit and you sit before you finally go to the car hooked to the charger to see how much longer he will be. You notice it’s already fully charged but the driver is gone!

You walk back to the car in front of you and ask him if he knows where the driver of the fully charged car is? He said the guy told him he would be back soon… He was going to walk down the street to a little bar that has food and get lunch but it’s been an hour and he hasn’t come back yet.

Realizing there is nothing you can do, you just go back to your car and sit. After 15 more minutes you are pissed off knowing that the driverless car is fully charged and is just wasting your time. Plus, there is still another car in front of you.

Meanwhile the guy who was going to charge his car to full capacity in the other lane is almost finished, but two more cars are already behind him. If you had stayed there, you would have been next. So, you sit some more getting more pissed off until you finally decide to get out of your car and just unplug his car and push it out of the way.

The problem is it’s in PARK and is locked and will not move. You go back to your car and sit in it again. It’s now been two hours and the guy in front of you decides to leave.

Your luck has changed for the better and at least you are now next. You’re thinking maybe you should drive or walk down the street to the little bar that sells food and find the fucking driver of the car.

You’re really running out of patience now when another car pulls in behind you. The driver of that car gets out to ask you how long the other car has been there and how long you will be. You explain, you have been here over two hours, and the other car plugged into the charger is fully charged but the driver is gone.

He goes back to his car and you are sitting in yours hating this. You’re having second thoughts about the electric car. Finally you see a guy walking towards the charging station and figure its finally him, but to your amazement he just walks on by, he is not the driver.

It’s about three hours now and you realize your whole day is fucked up, there isn’t enough time left to get the things done. You’re just really tired of this whole thing. You’re even starting to hate the XM radio.

You decide fuck it, you’re gonna break out the guy’s window, take the car out of PARK and move it. Maybe you’ll even push it into the street where it will get hit and destroyed by another car. You hope the bastard has no insurance, or it will be a hit and run.

You walk over to the car with a jack handle and break out his window, unlock his car and open the door. You try to pull the lever out of park but then realize it needs an ignition key to get it out of PARK. You’re so pissed off, you’re ready to kill when you hear this voice yelling.

“What the fuck are you doing asshole?”

It’s finally the driver and he’s drunk enough that you can smell alcohol on him. You start to say something when he takes a swing at you. That does it, your right hand slams into his face. He falls down instantly but whacks his head on the cement curb. He doesn’t move.

The guy in the car behind you comes running up and tries to revive the guy. The guy does not respond. You think it’s time to get the fuck out of here, as the guy who came out of the car behind calls 911.

You realize your electric car is being blocked by his car and that it can only go a few more miles because the battery is almost dead.

The cops show up and the guy in the car behind me tells them he’s a witness and you broke the window on the dead guy’s car, punched him in the face and watched as the guy fell to the concrete.

There it is, I got arrested and now I’m in jail with a class two homicide charge. I’ve been here 72 days and my case isn’t scheduled until early next year. Remember what I said. My advice to you is to stay out of prison, never by an electric car.

Buckle Up: XDA Drag Racing Titans Set to Take Over VMP

The 38th annual MTC Engineering Summer Nationals is set from May 17-19 at Virginia Motorsports Park. With a promise to uphold a tradition of high-speed excitement, this event will feature more than 700 professional, sportsman, and grudge motorcycle racers.

XDA is committed to delivering a competitive arena that is not only thrilling but also secure and professional for every racer. Whether it’s the precision of index racing, the strategy of bracket battles, or the high stakes of the Gambler’s race, there’s a slice of the drag racing pie for everyone. It’s more than just a competition; it’s a weekend-long festival celebrating speed, skill, and the essence of motorcycle racing.

Along with a substantial cash purse of $90,000, the MTC Summer Nationals will feature a vast vendor midway full of great deals on motorcycle parts, accessories, and apparel.

Orient Express Racing Pro Street

Prepare to be thrilled as the world’s most electrifying street-tire motorcycles roar back into the spotlight for the exhilarating Orient Express Pro Street class. Witness these engineering marvels—each boasting over 650 horsepower—shatter expectations. Every launch off the line is a spectacle, sending shockwaves through the crowd as they blaze down the quarter-mile at jaw-dropping speeds exceeding 230 mph, all in a breathtaking six seconds.

Rodney Williford, the reigning king of Pro Street, is in the midst of his fourth dominant year, already clinching an early victory this season. Known for his impeccable skill and tactical prowess, Williford faces fierce competitors, each poised to dethrone him.

The Race to the World Cup Finals

But there’s more at stake than just the championship title. Pro Street racers are also vying for the coveted spots at the 28th annual Haltech World Cup Finals, sponsored by Wiseco, set to take place at the Maryland International Raceway from October 30 to November 3, 2024. With an audience of over 50,000 racing enthusiasts and a hefty $5,000 prize from Platinum General Services, competitors are pushing their limits. Only the top ten in points will earn the chance to battle it out on one of drag racing’s grandest stages.

DME Racing Real Street

Discover the high-octane DME Racing Real Street class, featuring street-legal sportbikes that push beyond conventional limits. Designed for bikes with minimal modifications and a hand clutch, this class showcases awe-inspiring speeds of up to 190 mph and lightning-quick 7-second runs. David Fondon, a seasoned competitor and newly crowned points leader, currently tops the standings. His remarkable victory at the season opener marked his first-ever win in Real Street, setting a high bar for the competition.

As a proven champion known for his dominance across various classes, the pressure intensifies as his rivals gear up for the next event. They know that the key to the championship could lie in shifting Fondon from the lead early on. The race is on to prevent him from securing an unassailable lead before mid-season, turning up the heat in what promises to be a showdown of epic proportions next weekend.

MaxxECU Pro Xtreme

After making his Pro Xtreme debut with XDA last year, international sensation Dale Leeks from the United Kingdom leads the MaxxECU Pro Xtreme points. This class features the World’s quickest Turbocharged, Supercharged, and nitrous-injected big tire wheelie-bar motorcycles running three-second passes in the eighth-mile.

After making a sensational debut in the MaxxECU Pro Xtreme category with XDA last year, Dale Leeks from the United Kingdom has quickly ascended to the top of the points leaderboard. This exciting class showcases the height of motorcycle racing, featuring the world’s fastest turbocharged, supercharged, and nitrous-injected motorcycles equipped with big tires and wheelie bars. Competitors in this category dazzle the crowds with astonishing three-second sprints over the eighth-mile, pushing the boundaries of speed and engineering to new heights.

MaxxECU Pro Xtreme is presented by Billy Vose Racing, Fast by Gast, DME Racing, Dunigan Racing, Grothus Dragbikes, Harley Haul, Rob Bush Motorsports, Robinson Industries, Schnitz Racing, Timblin Chassis, and Worldwide Bearings.

HTP Performance Super Stock

The battle for supremacy in the HTP Performance Super Stock class hinges on who can master the clutch next weekend. Governed by stringent rules, this class keeps modifications to a minimum: stock wheelbase, stock motor, MR12 spec fuel, and no technological aids like air shifters or dataloggers. There’s simply no room for error. Jeremy Teasley, widely acclaimed as the GOAT of the drag strip, currently leads the pack after clinching victory at the Platinum General Services season opener. However, with a field brimming with talent, the title is up for grabs next weekend, and victory could go to any skilled contender ready to seize the opportunity.

HTP Performance Afterdark

Brace yourself for an electrifying Saturday night at Virginia Motorsports Park. As dusk falls, the HTP Performance Afterdark Underground program will satisfy your adrenaline appetite with the ‘Running of the Bulls’ grudge shootouts and endless ‘Clocks Off’ racing, offering pure, unbridled competition. It’s not just about scoring those crucial points; it’s a chance for the racers to flaunt their prowess on one of the best-prepared grudge surfaces anywhere. #KillerMillerSpiller

So, dig into your wallets, gather your friends, and make your way to witness the spectacle. The lineup features our five elite Shootout classes: the Boosted Bulls (Turbo Bikes), Nitrous Bulls (Nitrous Bikes), 3 Sixty 5 Transport Monster Bulls (Heavyweights), Tommie’s Motorsports DMV Bulls (Rising Stars), and All Motor Bulls. This is a night of high-octane excitement you won’t want to miss!

Vance & Hines 4.60

Vance & Hines 4.60 is recognized as the fastest eighth-mile sportsman index category in motorcycle drag racing. With only 660 feet to make their mark, competitors need unmatched precision and speed as they react to the four-tenths pro tree. This electrifying short distance amplifies the intensity, where every millisecond and every move can make the difference between victory and defeat.

This premier category draws the sport’s elite, turning even the qualifying rounds into a display of high-octane determination as racers give their all in every pass. After showcasing his skill at the season opener, Mac McAdams leads this star-studded class in points. Yet, as the next weekend approaches, his adversaries are poised and ready to challenge his lead, each eager to claim the coveted top position for themselves.

Expect a spectacle of skill and speed, where legends are made and hearts are broken on the race track. The Vance & Hines 4.60 offers more than just a race; it is a testament to the spirit and passion that drive this adrenaline-charged sport.

XDA Sportsman

The XDA shines a spotlight on the stars of the sportsman world with a thrilling lineup of six distinct classes. Each class showcases the best in precision, skill, and competitive spirit, making them must-see events for every race enthusiast. Participants will battle it out in the finely-tuned 1 Stop Speed 5.60 Index, the fiercely competitive Mickey Thompson Tires Top Sportsman, the strategic VooDoo Components Bracket Bash, the demanding MPS Racing Pro ET, the adrenaline-pumping Brock’s Performance Street ET, and the crowd-favorite Hard Times Parts & Service Gambler’s race on Friday night.

At XDA, sportsman racers are not just participants; they are the highlight of each event. With a professional atmosphere and a hefty $28,000 in guaranteed payouts at each race, XDA elevates these classes, celebrating the skill and dedication of the sportsman racers who bring their all to the track. Experience the thrill where the true stars shine in XDA’s sportsman racing classes. 

Make plans now to come out and watch or, better yet, #racewithXDA on May 17-19, 2024.

Visit www.xdaracing.com for event information, class rules, payouts, entry fees, schedule, and more.

Class Entry List and Resources

XDA prides itself on having a close-knit group of racers. Below, you will find a list of racers attending this event and links to class-specific groups that you can access to talk to other racers and get your questions answered. Together, we are strong.

XDA Facebook Groups

• XDA Racers – https://bit.ly/3feasis
• Pro Street – https://bit.ly/3fgZx7D
• Real Street – https://bit.ly/3hmHvm8
• Pro Xtreme – https://bit.ly/30AsBmu
• 4.60 Index – https://bit.ly/2UADKA6
• Super Stock – https://bit.ly/3hlXsZN
• 5.60 Index – https://bit.ly/3fjOBpZ

About XDA Racing

The Xtreme Dragbike Association (XDA) is an east coast motorcycle drag racing series with 700+ motorcycle racers competing at each event. Every XDA event hosts professional classes, sportsman classes, grudge racing and a vendor midway. Lifestyle activities such as bike shows, bikini contests, DJ and live bands are also held at select events. For more information on the XDA, please visit www.xdaracing.com or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube @xdaracing

* * * *

TELL ‘EM BIKERNET.COM SENT YA

Hey,

This has been a massively exciting week. While the bros party in Daytona under summer-like skies, we struggle to stoke the fires of freedom in the cold northwest. Our governor sliced away regulation while other states attempt to reenact helmet laws that harm more than they protect.

The news is interesting, let’s hit it:

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

IS HYDROGEN A CONSIDERATION?–
Here is a little more information from the interweb on Toyota’s hydrogen car.

The flagship Toyota Mirai limited has a list price of US $67,095, meaning the list price could drop as low as $27,095-or 60% less than its current cost.

A Toyota Mirai takes a total of 5 kg of hydrogen. So, a full tank would cost around $180 and return around $312 miles of EPA-estimated range (taking the 2018 model as an example). That works out to $0.58 per mile, which is abysmal.

Currently there are only 59 open retail refueling sites in the United States, most of them in California.

BOOK SCORE OF THE WEEK—

Harry Sucher was the founding member of the SoCal AMCA with Chuck Vernon and John Eagle.

–from Don Whalen

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM REPORT—

We’re hustling on the next Sturgis Rally Magazine. It will be packed with Sturgis resources and rally info.

“You still have a couple of days to buy an ad. It’s an annual book. One ad lasts all year.” –Bandit

THERE’S A SPECIAL PLACE FOR GUN OWNER—

I have been blown away by the strong advocacy efforts that have been made by our friends at the USCCA For Saving Lives Action Fund – and I wanted YOU to hear about it.

A new website section has been launched on the Action Fund site, centered around pieces of state-specific legislation. This is a great place to check out legislation happening not only in your home state but around the country as well.

Today, I invite you to go check out what is happening in your neck of the woods – because YOU deserve to know. YOUR God-given 2A rights deserve to be protected, no matter where you are in the country. Our friends at the Action Fund are determined to advocate for your rights every single day at both the state and national levels, and want to ensure you are kept in the loop on all the latest developments.

Take a few minutes TODAY to check out the newly launched site here.

This is an exciting update that I am proud to share with you – 2024 is a crucial year and now is a more important time than ever to make sure you are kept in the loop.

Take care and stay safe,

Tim Schmidt
USCCA Chairman & Co-Founder

BANDIT WORKS ON A LETTER TO THE SUPREME COURT–

Hey,

I know your crew is super busy with one case after another, but don’t you see a trend? It’s almost absurd that this terrific country is going through two decades or strife over something that could have been addressed in two weeks.

It’s also nuts that our entire government has allowed this to get to a point where the only thing that might save the entire country is your group, the Supreme Court.

I would hope, but I don’t expect the Supreme Court to make the decisions, but you can force the right people to step up and address the climate alarmism once and for all.

At one time this country was all about finding the truth and the answers. We need American unity once more. We need kids all over the world to know we are living in the best of times and not doomed. Don’t you see what’s happening?

All the best of times ahead,

–Bandit
The Bastard Biker in the Black Hills

This is a work in progress…

STARTING THE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTES OF THE WEEK–

“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.” – Winston Churchill

THIS JUST IN FROM THE BABYLON BEE—

Though many people try to make the case that religion and politics don’t mix, the truth is that political affiliations have been a part of history for thousands of years. Even your most beloved biblical figures were committed supporters of specific political parties.

The Babylon Bee is here to shed more light on the topic by revealing the following list of Bible characters and their political parties:

Noah: Democrat. Huge believer in climate change.

Methuselah: Democrat. Currently serving as President of the United States.

Sodom & Gomorrah: The entire city was filled with Libertarians.

Lazarus: Republican when he was alive. Democrat when he wasn’t.

Caiaphas: Democrat. He loved dragging his political enemies to court on false charges.

Balaam’s Donkey: Democrat. Party mascot.

Job: Republican. Couldn’t stop losing.

Peter: Denied party affiliation three times.

Satan: Democrat. Founder of the party.

Jesus: Republican. Everybody knows this.

–Babylon Bee

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–

DAYTONA BIKE WEEK BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for February 29th, 2024– click here to read

Proposed 15-yr no repair bill!? They will have to pry my Shovelhead out of my dead cold hands!

–Rob Rhoades
USA

DAYTONA BEACH BIKE WEEK REPORT—

Chrome and crowds: Motorcycles take over Main Street as Daytona’s Bike Week begins

It wasn’t even 11 a.m. on Bike Week’s opening day, but Dan and Sue Phillips already had claimed a prime viewing spot for the parade of chrome and characters outside the Boot Hill Saloon on Main Street.

“I’ve had this spot for a long time,” said Dan, 70, referring to more than the two hours that the Daytona Beach couple already had spent that morning on the outside deck of the landmark watering hole.

“My first Bike Week was in 1978 and this is where I was,” he said.

Sue, his wife of 50 years, joined him for the first time two years later. For most of the years since, the couple traveled on their Harley-Davidsons from their home in Dayton, Ohio.

‘A big party, yes?’ Bike Week newcomers explore Main Street.

On opening day, Bike Week rumbled at full throttle on Main Street, the epicenter of the 10-day event that now attracts an estimated crowd of 300,000-400,000 motorcycle fans throughout a region that includes Volusia, Flagler, Brevard, Seminole, Orange, St. Johns and Duval counties.

The scene offered a familiar carnival for the senses that blended the tantalizing aromas of grilled sausages and burgers melded with the scent of leather and exhaust fumes, the sound of molar-rattling engines and the sight of gleaming chrome, custom paint jobs and colorful crowds.

An informal survey of license plates illustrated the event’s appeal: Pennsylvania, Ohio, Georgia, South Carolina, Michigan, Illinois, Minnesota, New York, South Dakota, Ontario and Quebec, among others.

The throng also included more far-flung visitors, such as the boisterous group of roughly two dozen members of the Scamps Motorcycle Club from Woerden, a city in the Utrecht province of The Netherlands.

“If it ain’t Dutch, it ain’t much,” said Rob Kromwijk, 44, a welder informally nominated as the group’s spokesman as they nursed cold beers outside Dirty Harry’s Pub.

He and his friends also were early birds on opening day, arriving on Main Street before 7 a.m.

Merchants, vendors expect ‘a great week’
On opening day, merchants and vendors also were optimistic about the 10-day event.

“We’ve been working around the clock, literally, getting ready for this,” said Laura Humphreys, vice president of family-owned Humphreys & Son Jewelers, a Main Street fixture since 1954.

Rain: An unwelcome Bike Week wild card?
Weather could be a question mark, reflected in cloudy skies on opening day that yielded misty rain around lunch time. Based on the extended forecast issued by the National Weather Service in Melbourne, rain chances range from 30-60% into next week.

The prospect of a few raindrops didn’t faze Chris Snyder, 62, a retired building inspector who left behind much less hospitable weather in Buffalo.

“It was snowing and 20 degrees when I left,” said Snyder, watching the scene across from the Full Moon Saloon. “It’s great to get out of Buffalo this time of year. This is a perfect spot. I would stand here all day and do this.”

Snyder is among the visitors who have made multiple trips to Bike Week.

History lesson: Daytona Beach’s Bike Week: A history of beer, bikes, cole slaw and ‘rowdyism’

Those returning fans are the best part of the event, said Johnny Sanchez, owner of John’s Rock ‘N Ride, another longtime Main Street business.

“To me, it’s like a homecoming,” he said. “These are people I only see once or twice a year. I look forward to seeing them, and they look forward to seeing me. They were customers, but now we’re one big family. Yeah, it’s just like a homecoming.”

–By Jim Abbott, Daytona Beach News-Journal

“I cut the hell out of Jim’s report. While it snowed in the Black Hills and I worked with museum projects, but fielded many calls from Daytona. An excited old friend Catherine Palmer called and spoke of a terrific time riding through downtown and out to the Broken Spoke. Some complain to the gentrification of Daytona and the efforts to force the bikers out.

Hamster brothers reported from one party to the next. Michael Lichter hit the ground running with his ammo belt of cameras and note pad. We’ve been back and forth about exciting museum projects and his history with the rally.

Rogue reported in and already submitted reports from Billy Lane’s vintage bike racing events and training for youngsters. More reports on their way…”

–Bandit

THROTTLE ADDICTION GIVEAWAY—

This is our biggest giveaway EVER! SOMEONE will WIN this Truck + Chopper + $5,000!

EVERY PURCHASE GETS YOU ENTERED!*

That’s right- every dollar you spend at ThrottleAddiction.com gets you entered, INCLUDING hard parts!

We’re launching with a HUGE 10X multiplier on all entries! Don’t miss this limited bonus period!
Check it out!

BONNEVILLE 2004 ACCURATE ENGINEERING PLAN–

The eagle, er, the Assalt Weapan has landed at Accurate Engineering’s World Headquarters. We are making our list but first there are a couple customers to finalize. Thank you so much, Keith R. Ball. Much Love my Brother.

Five-Ball Racing, Rough Boy Racing, Ben Stuck Speed and Machine, and Accurate Engineering.

–Barry Wardlaw

ILLINOIS HELMET EFFORT–

You asked, we listened. Phone calls start today. Tell Representative Didech NO on his mandatory helmet bill!

State Representative Daniel Didech appears to be standing alone on his legislation (HB5620) to force motorcyclists in Illinois to wear DOT rated helmets. Many of you asked about making calls, so today we start the calls.

Starting today 3/5/24 after 9am, and until the bill is pulled from consideration.

1) Call Representative Daniel Didech’s Springfield office at 217-782-0499.

We are only calling his office at this time. If the situation changes and ABATE feels that other legislators need to hear from us, we’ll send out another alert.

2) Firmly, but politely let the Legislative Coordinator know that you are a rider who will be affected by his legislation, and that you want the Representative to pull his bill from consideration. Let them know that you want Representative Didech to work with us on issues that actually affect motorcycle safety such as distracted driving and restoring Motorcycle Safety Training in Northern Illinois.

Again, be polite. The young lady who will be answering these calls is a very nice person and she didn’t file the bill. ABATE is known for being some of the best at lighting up phone lines and “killing with kindness”. Let’s keep that reputation going.

3) Share the webpage abate-il.org/helmet with your friends and family. It will have the latest on this fight including videos and links to witness slips.

4) Check our this map of the 59th District. Call your friends, family, and businesses in this district to encourage them to call his district office and complain about the helmet bill.

5) Don’t forget to file your slips “opponent” to the original bill, “record of appearance only”.

“It’s time for ABATE to do what ABATE does best” – Josh “SKI” WItkowski, Legislative Coordinator

QUICK, HEAD TO THE TEMPLE TO FOR A TUNE-UP–Trusting in The Power

“Trust is the glue of life. It’s the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It’s the foundational principle that holds all relationships.”

–Stephen Covey

The words of Henry Ford ring with a profound truth: “If you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” Our beliefs shape the reality we experience, as the Universe responds to the level of our conviction. The Universal Law of cause and effect operates impartially, manifesting in accordance with our predominant thoughts.

Napoleon Hill’s timeless wisdom in “Think and Grow Rich” resonates deeply: “What the mind can conceive and believe, the mind will achieve.” Consider the power of this statement.

Many of us unwittingly reinforce negative affirmations, declaring, “I’ll never lose weight, can’t afford it, I always attract the wrong people or ????? Such beliefs inevitably materialize in our lives. Conversely, those who affirm their perfect weight, ideal relationships, and alignment with their life’s purpose witness the manifestation of good through the Universal Law.

To alter our lives, we must transform our thoughts. Zig Ziglar so profoundly said, “Get rid of your stinkin’ thinkin’ and have a checkup from the neck up.” It’s imperative to shift our core beliefs and conversations towards positivity.

Today, let us embrace change in our thinking. Let us open ourselves to the unfolding goodness in our lives, releasing any limiting beliefs. By harnessing the Universal Law of cause and effect, we invite wonderful new outcomes. Our days are filled with uplifting thoughts, and we revel in the results. We acknowledge our Divine guidance, trusting in right thinking.

Grateful for this truth, we affirm: Today, I know I can.

And So It Is.

Namaste’

“The mind is everything. What you think you become.” –Buddha

–YALE
Confirmed Motorcycle Monk

Hey, it’s almost time for Babes in Borrego, the ultimate homecoming weekend!

Some call it Motorcycle Spring break but we call it Babes Ride Out Borrego Springs! We are just 2.5 weeks away from racing down the grades and into our favorite desert oasis. Ticket sales and transfer end March 8th so if you plan on coming, this is your reminder to get your tickets now.

Friendly reminder that no passes will be sold the week leading up to the event or on site. If you are ready to kick back, relax, and ride with friends near and far in an amazing area, let’s GO GALS!

MAJOR NEWS–Wyoming Senators Standing Tall in the Saddle

We recently reported on Wyoming and climate change in our latest regional publication. This was supported by our team of experts that toured the Cowboy State, speaking at three universities and testifying before the Wyoming Senate Agriculture Committee.

On February 28, the state Senate voted to strip $347 million from the governor’s Energy Matching Funds program. Projects eliminated include carbon capture utilization and storage, carbon dioxide transportation, industrial carbon capture, hydrogen production, biomass, lithium processing and battery storage for wind and solar energy.

This legislative success was led by Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Cheri Steinmetz. In an email thanking us for providing the scientific basis that confirmed that increases in carbon dioxide were hugely beneficial for both Wyoming and the planet, she stated:

“We are extremely grateful for the work of the CO2 Coalition and their ability to provide sound scientific data to public policy makers. It is essential that we have accurate information and place a high regard on the truth as we govern the State of Wyoming. The CO2 Coalition has provided invaluable research, support and willingness to tackle the tough issues we are facing.”

–CO2 Coalition

ARKANSAS AND CLIMATE—

Next up on the schedule for our state and regional climate series is Arkansas. Breaking news! There is no climate crisis in Arkansas.

Rather than unusual and unprecedented warming, there has been a nearly 3-degree Fahrenheit decline in maximum temperatures since the 1930s in “The Natural State,” which is the state’s nickname.

–CO2 Coalition

[page break]

FLORIDA ABATE ACTION–

—-General Bill by Transportation & Collins Violations Against Vulnerable Road Users: Designating the “Vulnerable Road User Act”; requiring a person who commits a moving violation that causes serious bodily injury to or the death of a vulnerable road user to pay specified fines & attend a specified driver improvement course; requiring the court to revoke the person’s driver license for a specified period; defining the term “vulnerable road user”, etc. Effective Date: 07/01/2024

CS/CS/SB 838: Proceeds Funding

Motorcycle Safety Education GENERAL BILL by Appropriations ; Transportation ; Collins Proceeds Funding Motorcycle Safety Education; Requiring that the motorcycle safety education fee be used for a safety & education program administered by FL not-for-profit corporations; specifying requirements for the administrators of such program; requiring the Dept of Hwy Safety & Motor Vehicles to enter into certain contracts for a specified purpose; specifying the requirements of the safety awareness & education programs; requiring the department to select program administrators & enter into specified contracts by a specified date, etc. Effective Date: 7/1/2023

ABATE of Florida, Inc – Legion Riders and LAMA

https://floridapolitics.com/archives/614417-gov-desantis-signs-motorcycle-safety-bill/

The bill moves the state’s motorcycle safety program into the hands of 3 charities. 3 motorcycle safety organizations are set to receive funding for promotional campaigns under legislation Gov. Ron DeSantis just signed. “FL is home to more than 650,000 motorcyclists who are able to ride all year long,” DeSantis said in a released statement. “It is important to continue promoting motorcycle safety & education programs that will prevent accidents & make our roads safer.”

According to DeSantis’ Office, he signed the bill (SB 838) on Wed, even though he held a bill signing ceremony on Tues after the Cabinet meeting with members of the organizations . Before the ceremony, his aides kicked out all members of the press out of the Cabinet room. FL Channel cameras rolled as the ceremony took place, but the audio feed was cut off. The bill shifts revenues from the $2.50 motorcycle safety education fee included in motorcycle registration fees used by the Dept of Hwy Safety & Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) for a safety education program.

Instead, those funds will go to three nonprofit groups to administer their own program. The groups must be licensed charities in FL & have existed for 20 years as a motorcycle safety “grassroots” organization with at least 1,000 members. Under the new law, the DHSMV must select the 3 groups by Oct. 1, & enter into 5-year contracts with them. The law directs the agency to “award the contracts pursuant to this act to eligible entities even if a sufficient number of qualified entities have not applied.” Payments are to be issued quarterly, with the first payment due on Oct. 1.

(that is my husband with the beard behind Gov Desantis – they call him Griz, he is also the new president of ABATE of FL, Inc)

“V “- Newsletter Editor
ABATE of Florida, Inc
Lake County Chapter
PO Box 492
Astatula, FL 34705
‘A Motorcycle Rights Organization’
https://abatefloridainc.com/ ABATE state
https://www.facebook.com/ LAKE FB
http://www.lakecountyfloridaabate.com/ LAKE Web

New TECH Bikernet Reader Comment!–Forking by Frank is Still a Thing!

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Forking_by_Frank_is_Still_a_Thing.aspx

“Thanks for the walk down memory lane. Forking by Frank. That’s great!” –Sam
TX

Plus, MOTOR has you set for Lenten fish frys, Easter brunch and egg hunt, and a pop-up Supper Club.

When it was first debuted in 1949, Harley-Davidson’s Hydra-Glide represented a significant new chapter in Harley-Davidson history. The introduction of the Hydra-Glide telescopic front suspension for Harley-Davidson E and F models offered a smoother ride for folks looking to explore the highways and byways of America.

Today, the 2024 Hydra-Glide Revival model, the fourth installment in the Harley-Davidson Icons Motorcycle Collection, celebrates the 75th anniversary of that 1949 landmark bike, a champion of the Panhead era. And the new bike could be yours.

Visit the H-D Museum to check out the original 1949 model in the H-D Museum’s Motorcycle Gallery. Then throw a leg over the 2024 Icon in the Experience Gallery and learn how you could be riding home on one of these limited-edition bikes.

But that’s not the only new installation coming to the crossroads of 6th & Canal. Learn more about how H-D put the “motor” in Motor Company in the 1920s and 1930s and then head to the Clubs & Competition Gallery to get a look at the threads motorcycle crews sported in the 20th century.

Hoop heads, there’s still time to hop on the Marquette Golden Eagles bandwagon before the madness begins this month. Hear directly from the head coach Shaka Smart, head coach for the Marquette men’s basketball team, as the finale of Marquette Thursdays at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant arrives on March 7.

March is also a great time to check out what’s cooking at MOTOR Bar & Restaurant. Whether it’s the famous AYCE Friday Fish Fry for the last weeks of Lent, the St. Pat’s-inspired Irish specials or the Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt, MOTOR has you covered any day of the week. And 1903 Events are showing off there Wisconsin roots with a special pop-up Supper Club.

And tickets are moving fast for this summer’s Harley-Davidson Homecoming™ Festival. Visit HDHomecoming.com to secure your two-day general admission tickets at this year’s lowest prices for headliners like Jelly Roll and the Red Hot Chili Peppers in July.

The end of winter is nigh, which means the H-D Museum is back to being open seven days a week. Check out H-D Museum 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. every day of the week. The Harley-Davidson Shop and H-D Factory Outlet will both be open 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. And MOTOR Bar & Restaurant keeps rolling, opening at 11 a.m. daily (Sun – Wed, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Thu – Sat, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.)

MUST-SEE EXHIBITS AND INSTALLATIONS

“Mama Tried: Bringing it Together” (on display now)

The Mama Tried Motorcycle Show and adjoining Flat Out Friday races are a bright spot in the dead of cold, Wisconsin winters. The show has amassed an army of followers and fans that give the weekend its signature style: People are the heart of the show; the bikes are the social lubrication. The Harley-Davidson Museum’s special exhibit, “Mama Tried: Bringing it Together,” focuses on the builders, the racers and the fans that gather over a bike or a brew.

A riot of bikes awaits you: outrageous custom bikes, lovingly restored vintage machines and one as rare as hen’s teeth – 1929 FHAC with FLXI Sidecar Factory Racer. Don’t come alone; bring your crew. That’s what Mama Tried is about, after all. And if you haven’t already tuned in, hear directly from David Kreidler, curator of the exhibit, on the Mama Tried podcast.

1972 Custom Sprint 350 Single (on display now)

J. Shia’s unconventional 1972 350cc Sprint custom just went on display at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Inspired by Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet “Swan Lake,” Shia designed a dual bike project to reflect both the contrast and parallels of the black and white swans. The “white swan” can now be found at the H-D Museum. Shia’s build style for this project is unique in both function and materials, which she designed and fabricated all out of her Boston-based shop, Madhouse Motors.

Shia incorporated unexpected parts from other products to create the bike: The headlight is the projector from a microscope and the taillight is a pencil sharpener. The carburetor intake is a modified juicer, and the foot-pegs are stove handles, while the turbocharger’s exhaust is a soprano saxophone bell. This amazing build is a symbol of ingenuity in moto customization and needs to be seen to be believed.

“My Papi Has a Motorcycle” / “Mi Papi Tiene una Moto” (on display now)

From award-winning children and YA author Isabel Quintero and illustrator Zeke Peña comes the Harley-Davidson Museum’s first-ever bilingual exhibit, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” / “Mi papi tiene una moto.” Based on the beloved children’s book of the same name, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” shares a story of family bonds strengthened by the simple act of taking a joy ride on a two-wheeled machine. With brilliant, colorful art from Peña paired with heart-warming stories from Southern Californian riding families, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” will draw smiles from kids of all ages. It’s an exhibit that focuses not only on where you can take a motorcycle, but where a two-up motorcycle ride with a loved one can take you.

Experience Gallery (on display now)

With inspiring stories from riders who have turned their dream of learning to ride into reality, a look at the epic journeys you can only experience behind the bars of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, plus the chance to throw a leg over a new Harley-Davidson #FreedomMachine, the Experience Gallery shows the world how United We Ride!

And now you can hop in the saddle of a limited-edition 2024 Icons Collection Hydra-Glide Revival motorcycle that celebrates the 75th Anniversary of the original with graphics and design cues taken from Hydra-Glide models of the 1950s and ‘60s.

Worthington Scout Overgreen Engine (on display now)

In 1927, the Worthington Lawn Mower Company launched the Scout Overgreen model, the first walking mower with three connected – also known as “ganged” – decks. Between 1929 and 1935, Worthington contracted Harley-Davidson to build about 500 engines for the innovative triplex mowers.

Long-Time Riders: Lee & Pearl (on display now)

At the H-D Museum entrance, a new case featuring two long-time Wisconsin riders is on display. Lee and Pearl Christopherson have been together since meeting on a motorcycle in 1958. Lee was a member of the Blue Knights, a group of active or retired law enforcement officers.

While Lee can’t begin to guess how many miles he’s ridden over 76 years, Pearl has kept track of her time in the saddle and surpassed 175,000 miles in the summer of 2023.?The display features Pearl’s Motor Maids shirt and vest along with a Blue Knights Club vest from Lee, and the couple’s H.O.G.® patch and pin collection.

Clubs & Competition (on display now)

The early days of motorcycle culture were marked by board track racing, hillclimbs, endurance events, and more. Our latest Clubs & Competition gallery update is a reflection of how these riders shaped the future of bikes.

In the early part of the 20th century, motorcycle culture was a homegrown phenomenon. It grew out of the passion of riders for their evolving sport. The camaraderie that developed around riding and attending competitive events led to the formation of motorcycle clubs that hosted destination rides, family picnics with motorcycle games and other riding competitions.

The latest clothing selection on view in the gallery includes uniforms from clubs organized by region or city. Some of the clubs represented in the case are the Beer City Riders from right here in Milwaukee; the Red Wing Motorcycle Club in Detroit; and the Aztec Motorcycle Club from National City, California. The H-D Archives collection includes Motorclothes® apparel sold in H-D® product catalogs but also non-H-D produced clothing items that have been proudly customized by riders.

“Off-Road Harley-Davidson” (on display now)

In the decades before America paved its highways, early riders had to be prepared for all sorts of terrain: sand, clay or dirt – and wandering those makeshift byways were Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. Today, it’s called off-road or adventure touring; back then it was just called riding. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson® motorcycles proved their toughness by riding over wooded hills, through stone-choked creek beds and up mountain sides.

“Off-Road Harley-Davidson” tells the history of motorcycles designed for rough roads, the people who rode them and the adventures they shared. This exhibition will close this month, so make tracks to see “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” before it hits the road.

NEWS FROM THE FIVE-BALL EMPIRE—

Frankie would like to buy a house, but he keeps buying more motorcycles. He can’t seem to get one complete, before he’s into another one. I wonder how tall these bars are?

His shop is coming together and I found a print he needed for the wall of the one and only Denver Chopper I built back in the ‘70s. I loved the way they fit big guys, but didn’t like the handling for a hard-riding LA freeway rider.

Check out his shop if you’re in the Venice area of LA between the homeless tents.

Tackling PFAS Regulations in Maine and Minnesota–

Maine and Minnesota have both passed PFAS chemical bans into law that will go into full effect in 2030 and 2032, respectively, and their regulatory agencies are now considering exceptions under “Currently Unavoidable Use” designations – when there is no alternative to PFAS in the manufacturing of a wide variety of consumer products.

“With so many critical powersports vehicle components dependent on PFAS use, we are advocating for sensible and targeted relief for our powersports industry from overly broad PFAS laws,” said Scott Schloegel, senior vice president of the MIC Government Relations Office. “These bans won’t go into full effect for several years, but the regulations are being written today and any exclusions for currently unavoidable use must be made now.

Minnesota is trying to define currently unavoidable use and Maine is considering which individual products and parts will be designated CUU for when the statewide ban goes into effect in 2030.”

In a letter to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, and a similar one sent to Minnesota, the GRO stated:

“Motorcycles, ATVs, and ROVs are complex vehicles that are required to comply with many state and federal regulations…. Numerous parts and components in our powersports vehicles contain PFAS to withstand extreme heat and chemical blends in fuel and other fluids, and for water resistance, corrosion resistance, and friction properties…. Without a CUU exclusion for these vehicles and parts the state risks an exit from the market of motorcycles, ATVs, and ROVs which are used by Mainers for commuting, recreation, agriculture, law enforcement, parks and forest officials, fire, rescue, and the military…. In addition to granting our vehicles and parts CUU designation, there needs to be recognition and allowance for parts, vehicles, and replacement parts that are already in inventory across Maine awaiting sale.”

PFAS BACKGROUND: Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances are a class of synthetic chemicals used for decades in a wide range of consumer products. Some PFAS chemicals are water-soluble and can easily enter the environment, and there are others that are polymerized and widely considered to be lower risk. The powersports industry largely uses the low-risk, polymerized PFAS.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, these are “long lasting chemicals, components of which break down very slowly over time” and “are found in the blood of people and animals all over the world and are present at low levels in a variety of food products and in the environment.”

Both federal and state governments have examined the health impacts of PFAS chemicals in recent years and many bills have been introduced to ban their use. Some states are also setting up registries to list any vehicles, components, parts, and clothing that contain PFAS.

As you know, we are at war with Fossil Fuels for all the wrong reasons. As Alex states over and over, “We are never looking at the benefits of Fossil Fuels,” which are massive, unrelenting and unstoppable. Interesting. In some respects, PFAS is dusts, but it’s under attack, hence because of climate doom it’s not really challenged. Someday it will be…

–Bandit

THURSDAY NEWS FREEDOM QUOTE-–

“A true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.”

–submitted by Wayfarer
International Editor
Bikernet.com™

BUFFALO MASSIVE STAFFING CHANGES—

The Sturgis Buffalo Chip has elevated the roles of executive team members Daymon Woodruff and Jeff D’Entremont. Woodruff is moving to President from Executive Vice President, and D’Entremont is moving to Executive Vice President from Vice President of Global Brand Alliances. Rod Woodruff remains at the helm as Sturgis Buffalo Chip CEO.

Daymon Woodruff has quite literally been bred into the music and motorcycle entertainment business. Learning from the ground up over his decades-long tenure, the previous Executive Vice President has immersed himself in every aspect it takes to execute a world-renowned destination like The Largest Music Festival in Motorcycling, including marketing & media, artist entertainment, merchandising, reservations, bar operations and many others.

Woodruff’s journey has prepared him well for this new role and molded him into the unique leader he is today. He is not your typical suit-and-tie exec and is the first to point out you shouldn’t take yourself too seriously when your job is selling fun.

“In the olden days, families became known for the fabrics they wore. It just so happens that our Woodruff family fabric is woven from a mission to throw the Best Party Anywhere for the nicest people on the planet,” says Daymon Woodruff. “If we stick to our mission, pump it full of vision and bring people together to share the magic of real human connection, we’re going somewhere big. Together.”

D’Entremont has been in the motorcycling scene for decades and has been an invaluable asset to the Buffalo Chip since starting full-time in January of 2023. Leading national touring events like the International Motorcycle Show Tour has brought him a level of customer and sponsor perspective few others can match. His work with a variety of OEMs, sponsors, international clients, and the aftermarket gives him the ideal foundation for helping to lead The Largest Music Festival in Motorcycling. As VP of Global Brand Alliances at the Chip, his influence helped bring in powerful relationships like Progressive Motorcycle Insurance, TIXR and many others.

“The next few years will be outstanding for the Buffalo Chip and our partners, and I’m excited to expand my role and build on our momentum,” says D’Entremont. “History is on our horizon with the 85th Anniversary of the Rally followed by the 45th Anniversary of the Chip. It’s time to celebrate our legacy while building an even more unforgettable future. Chip fans better cinch their helmets tight; it’s going to be a helluva ride!”

“The future is looking bright,” says Sturgis Buffalo Chip CEO Rod Woodruff. “Daymon grew up in this business and has held almost every role there is. The more responsibilities and leadership he has, the better off the Buffalo Chip is. Jeff has been a dream come true for the Buffalo Chip ever since he arrived. His industry and event experience will allow him to provide the top experience for our guests and sponsors. We’re making plans for the future, and with these two hardworking and intelligent guys running the ship, we’ll be ready for all the coming years including the 85th anniversary of the Sturgis Rally in 2025, the Buffalo Chip’s 45th anniversary in 2026, and even the 100th anniversary in 16 short years!”

The Sturgis Buffalo Chip remains one of the oldest and longest-running family-owned-and-operated music festivals in the country. Rod Woodruff is the CEO of the Buffalo Chip, with son Daymon taking the title of President. CFO is Carol Woodruff overseeing box office operations. Daughter Toni Woodruff is the Vending and Biker Belles director.

BANDIT ABOUT TO TURN 76—Shares his life’s thoughts:

Good to talk to you. Make sure all your kids take some sort of martial arts training. Is the IMB academy still around? I liked there Pilipino stick fighting and close quarters combat training. Today, especially in cities kids need awareness and self-defense training.

It goes way beyond fighting, situational awareness, threat recognition, understanding evil in all social circumstances. Each one could save lives, reputations, relationships and more. Besides they afford confidence and calm in tough situations.

Let it be written, let it be done.

–Bandit

BABE OF THE WEEK–

Aimee Lindee works at Freelance Photographer and Studied Welding and Metal Fabrication at Daytona State College. She is an avid free diver and is known as Coralia Dives.

–Sam Burns
Talent Scout
Bikernet.com™

[page break]

New EDITORIAL Bikernet Reader Comment!-–

MAKING STUFF HAPPEN BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for February 22, 2024– click here to read.

Another great article. Keep up the great work! Speaking of which, I wanted to ask if there has ever been a comparison of springer front ends vs. hydraulic?

Is it nostalgia for springers or do they actually function better than hydraulic forks? Care to provide your wisdom on the topic?

–Kolohe West
Citrus Heights, CA

Hey K. West,

“Springers and girders do function. But in general, springers don’t have damping. If the girder uses a shock, then it does have damping. Late Harley springers have shocks. Damping controls the rebound effort.

Here’s the other drawback to springers and girders, travel is limited. If you look at the rockers on a springer you can see the travel is limited to 2-4 inches. Whereas, a hydraulic frontend can travel 6 inches plus.

Bottom line. If you ride like a madman or you like to race, stick with a glide front end. If you cruise springers and girders do the trick and can be a lot of fun.”

–Bandit

AMERICAN MADE LEATHER BELTS—

They’re made by the Nash Crew and sponsored by Choppers Magazine.

Get ‘em while you can. But there’s more:

–Bandit

EUROPE IS BANNING CHROME for 2024–

Studies Reveal Chrome to Release Pollutants 500 Times more Toxic than Diesel Fumes

Hexavalent chromium – chromium-6 or Cr(VI) – is used in the process of welding, spray painting, and acid dipping. Known to cause lung and nose cancer, the stuff is particularly bad for you if airborne and inhaled, being archived as a lung and nose cancer, as well as a cause for liver damage and reproductive issues.

Existing machines are safe for the time being, though any change of color to a vehicle must still be reported to the Direccion General de Trafico (DGT) and insurance providers “to comply with regulations and insurance policies.”

the ban, by the way, also floats over newer machines like Triumph’s Chrome Collection, Norton’s V4SS, and a slew of Harleys( including the 2023 Harley-Davidson Road Glide® Special).

–from Geno and web bike world

“Again, we’re not getting the whole story. Hang on for more reports.” –Bandit

E15 CHANGES–In The Midwest

Last week the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a policy change related to gasoline with 15% ethanol (E15). In 2025 this new policy will allow gas stations in eight Midwestern states to sell E15 fuel year-round. Current policy prohibits E15 sales between June 1st and September 15th because of concerns that it adds to smog on hot days.

In 2022 and 2023 the EPA announced emergency waivers that allowed for summertime E15 sales, citing market disruptions, including the war in Ukraine. This move by the EPA will make those temporary changes permanent in the selected eight states.

The rule, which takes effect in April 2025, will apply in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin. This decision comes after governors and farm groups in these eight states requested that the federal government change this policy.

This modification is a prime opportunity to remind everyone to be mindful of the fuel that you use. Verify that the fuel you are using in your bike is compatible with manufacturers’ guidelines. Stay vigilant as these changes take effect over the next year!

Ride Safe and Ride Free

–MRF

BROUGH SUPERIOR HAS OFFICIALLY LANDED IN THE USA–

Experience the timeless elegance of the Brough Superior SS 100 at its exclusive launch in California. Be among the first to own this motorcycle icon.

RESERVE NOW

Reserve yours today and become a part of history.

This legendary motorcycle, celebrated alongside Lawrence of Arabia, embodies luxury, beauty, and speed. It’s a masterpiece handcrafted in Brough Superior’s French workshop, blending classic design with modern engineering.

Experience the thrill of riding a Super Sports 100. Its updated look and cutting-edge materials like a titanium chassis and quad-disc brakes ensure both style and performance.

Don’t miss the chance to own a piece of motorcycle history. Get behind the handlebars of the Brough Superior Super Sports 100 today!

AMA National and Regional News

Washington, D.C. — The Biden administration is planning to give carmakers more time to ramp up sales of electric vehicles amid weak demand for EVs, according to a report by the New York Times. The relaxed rule is part of a pending regulation that limits tailpipe emissions that will soon be finalized by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Under the EPA proposal submitted for review to the White House Office of Management and Budget, about 67 percent of new car sales — including sedans, crossovers, SUVs and light trucks — would be required to be electric by 2032, a dramatic increase from over 7 percent in 2023. It would also require up to 50 percent of buses and garbage trucks, 35 percent of short-haul freight tractors and 25 percent of long-haul freight tractor purchases to be electric.

Automakers and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation have urged the Biden administration to slow the proposed ramp-up in EV sales. They have said EV technology is still too costly for many mainstream U.S. consumers, and more time is needed to develop the charging infrastructure.

The availability of functioning charging stations remains a key issue, both for automakers and for many consumers. Although many EV drivers charge their vehicles at home, advocates have complained about a lack of functioning public charging stations across the country.

San Francisco — Waymo’s application to expand its robotaxi service in Los Angeles and San Mateo counties has been suspended for 120 days by the California Public Utilities Commission’s Consumer Protection and Enforcement Division. The decision doesn’t change Waymo’s ability to commercially operate driverless vehicles in San Francisco. However, it does put an abrupt halt to the company’s goals to expand where it can operate — at least until June 2024.

The Commission said on its website that the application has been suspended for further staff review. According to Waymo, the “suspension” is a procedural part of the CPUC’s standard and robust review process. However, San Mateo County Board of Supervisors vice president David J. Canepa took a different position. He stated that Waymo has hindered meaningful discussions regarding planned expansion into Silicon Valley and that this delay will provide the opportunity to fully engage the autonomous vehicle maker on their public safety concerns.

Waymo operates a commercial service 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout San Francisco. Waymo is also allowed to give people free driverless rides in parts of Los Angeles. The company kicked off robotaxi ride testing with employees in Santa Monica around March 2023 and has since opened it up to some members of the public, but is still not able to charge for those rides.

State News

Carson City, Nev. — The Bureau of Land Management announced that the Sierra Front- Northern Great Basin Resource Advisory Council (RAC) will host a public meeting on April 11, and a field tour on April 12. The 15-member BLM Sierra Front-Northern Great Basin RAC serves in an advisory capacity concerning issues relating to land use planning and the management of the public land resources located within the BLM’s Winnemucca, Elko, and Carson City Districts. The meeting and the field tour are open to the public.

The April 11 meeting will be held in-person at the Carson City BLM District Office, 5665 Morgan Mill Road, Carson City, Nev., from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PDT. A virtual participation option will also be available. Agenda items include district updates, Sage Grouse effort, Sand Mountain Recreation Area, Mining Law, Tribal Consultation process, and Solar Preliminary Environmental Impact Statement.

The meeting agenda and meeting access information for individuals that prefer to participate virtually will be posted two weeks in advance of the meeting at blm.gov/get-involved/resource-advisory-council/near-me/nevada.

Also — Nevada State Parks is currently accepting grant applications for motorized trail projects in anticipation of the 2024 Federal Highway Administration funding of the Recreational Trails Program. RTP funding may be awarded to counties, municipalities, state and federal agencies, non-profit organizations and tribal governments.

Applications must fall within one of the following categories:

Industry News

Jeff Emig was awarded the AMA Veteran/Senior Racer of the Year, while Jack Brucks was recognized as the AMA Youth Racer of the Year.

The AMA Female Racer of the Year was Mikayla Moore, who brought home the MotoAmerica Build, Train, Race Championship in 2023.

American Motorcyclist Association

13515 Yarmouth Dr
Pickerington, OH 43147
Email: grassroots@ama-cycle.org
www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com

Phone: (800) AMA-JOIN
(800) 262-5646
(614) 856-1900

THE LATEST WHEN YOU ROLE THE DICE– Issue 103

Here we go mates! Issue 103 is ready to roll out to you beautiful people.

You can grab a print or digital subscription or even just a single.

Enjoy DicE responsibly.

REPORT FROM THE MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION–Stay Vigilant!

Regarding motorcycle safety equipment, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation has long advocated that the government should “Let Those Who Ride Decide.” That is why recent news out of Illinois should make all bikers take notice.

A new bill, HB5620, would require all motorcyclists riding in the state to wear helmets. Illinois is one of thirty-three (33) states that allow some level of choice in the use of motorcycle helmets. In fact, Illinois, along with Iowa and New Hampshire, is one of only three (3) states that do not have a law regarding the use of motorcycle helmets. While states like Missouri and Nebraska have moved to allow more options for riders, this proposed plan in Illinois would be a step backward for those who believe in freedom of choice.

ABATE of Illinois is a powerful and effective organization for riders in the Land of Lincoln. They have engaged state lawmakers and are pushing back against this proposed legislation. But it should be a warning to all state motorcyclist rights organizations that if they can try it in Illinois, they can try it anywhere. Illinois has a long and proud tradition of allowing those who ride to decide what they wear. The MRF applauds their vigilance, and we will help them however we can.

There will be a committee hearing on Wednesday, March 6th, regarding HB5620.

To learn more about the battle in Illinois and help ABATE of Illinois with their coming efforts, click the “Help Illinois” button below.

Now more than ever, ride safe and ride free!

DAV ALERT–

Women veterans are dying by suicide at a staggering rate, especially when compared with their male and civilian counterparts.

This week, DAV released a new report, Women Veterans: The Journey to Mental Wellness, showing that despite years of progress in recognizing, serving and understanding women veterans, too many women continue to be at risk of falling through the cracks due to gaps in lifesaving mental health care.

This in-depth report — DAV’s third report focused on the unique experiences and needs of women veterans — shares alarming new statistics and calls on the VA to step up efforts to ensure the health and safety of our nation’s women veterans. We can and must do better for the women who served — and sacrificed — for our country.

Read the full report today, which includes personal stories from women veterans and more than 50 policy and legislative recommendations to spark change and save lives.

INSPIRATIONAL QUOTES CONTINUE–

“The most powerful factors in the world are clear ideas in the minds of energetic men of good will.” — J Arthur Thomson

–from Epoch times

ALERT, Hidden Helmet Legislation–

The Connecticut Motorcycle Riders Association (CMRA) has identified helmet legislation within a bill called HB5330:

AN ACT IMPLEMENTING THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION.

This legislation covers several topics, with language regarding wetlands, building permits and bicycles. However, section 19(b) on page 22 of the 29-page bill introduces the topic of helmets. This section seems aimed toward new riders, following section 19(a), which requires helmets for riders under the age of eighteen (18). Section 19(b) would require wearing a helmet for the first three (3) years after receiving a motorcycle endorsement on their license.

The wording is such that it would require an experienced rider moving to Connecticut to wear a helmet for the next three (3) years.

The CMRA is working to organize riders in the Constitution State to attend a hearing on the bill at 10:00 am on March 4th, 2024. They will address lawmakers in an effort to push back against this proposed legislation. This bill in Connecticut is a second warning in as many days to all state motorcyclist rights organizations that attempts at helmet legislation are not dead. We must remain vigilant to continue allowing those who ride to decide what they wear. The MRF applauds this vigilance, and we will help them however we can.

To learn more about the bill in Connecticut and help CMRA with its efforts, click the buttons below.

Now more than ever, ride safe and ride free.

A FINAL INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE OF THE DAY-–

“When you’re righteous, you don’t have to tell people that you’re righteous.” – Shaquille O’Neal

from 1440 Daily Digest

HOLD YOUR HORSES—

This year is nuts. I was asked about Museum auction items for Hamster banquet and it got me thinking. I haven’t been inspired to go metal art mad in the Black Hills. There’s a lot metal art talent in the area, and I suppose I’ve been intimidated.

So, I had a notion. And immediately another Hamster stepped up, Randy Cramer at Dakota V-twin. I’m going to wrap a spoked 21-inch wheel with a metal diamondback rattlesnake.

Hang on for reports. My son Frank is working on a tattoo-styled sketch.

Lee Clemens, another Hamster and former bike shop owner works on 45 flatheads and came up with an additional pump to pull oil out of the lower end. I don’t get it yet, although he’s explained it a couple of times. It’s complicated.

Jon Towle penned this illustration for my dad’s birthday. Son Frank came and tattooed my 80-some year old dad with a Hamster tattoo, since Hamsters were kind enough to ride to his block party every year until he passed. This year Son Frank packed Frankie on his back.

Here’s the original stencil. My Dad saved it, and I gave it to Frank for his 50th birthday. Big spender…

Here’s the major challenge of the week. I got the front chain lined up, the ring gear was spaced properly with the starter jackshaft.

The rear chain is aligned after making more space for the Sprotor bolts. Then I bolted up the starter and the chain rubs. Plus I ran the thinnest chain I could find from D.I.D.

I machined the transmission mainshaft nut down to allow the starter plate to be moved back 1/16th of an inch, helped some.

Fuck, it’s whiskey night and I ran across another poster for Doughboy Whiskey. Maybe tonight’s the night.

Johnny Humble’s chopper. He likes the new Tobacco line of Harleys and is seriously tempted to buy the Softail with the fairing. He’s also posting a report on Mama Tried.

I found this from Milwaukee Iron from the ’80 and offered it to the master, Randy Simpson. I mounted it and will take a shot before I ship it out.

In the meantime, ride fast and free forever.

–Bandit