Stray Paths by Rhys
with illustration by Wayfarer

Eased the old Shovel to a stop. Pulled into the bar parking lot for a quick beer. A little kid approached, not much more than 5, holding a puppy.

He held out the dog to me, and I took it to give it a couple of pats. I turned and the kid vanished. Not wanting to let the little guy go on a busy city street I tucked him in my vest and headed home. On the way his little head poke out into the breeze.

At home I noticed an injury to the hind quarter. The vet unable to fix, I had to let him go.

At least he got to feel the wind in his face.

(publication dated 25-March-2024)

---

What motorcycle do you like that everyone seems to hate?
Ujjwal Dey presents his case

Author’s Confession: Originally assigned to write a road test review about the latest localized venture of Harley-Davidson– the reluctant rider and long-time collaborator did not seem to know where to begin or how to present it to a predisposed, unhappy American audience. Well, the product is good and the sales are well…

It is not ugly nor a poor person’s substitute. It is actually a wonderfully designed and ingeniously engineered motorcycle. Moreover, it showcases adaptability for climate and terrain for a motorcycle. Besides, wasn’t Harley-Davidson always meant to be a motorcycle for the working class and not a fancy fashion accessory for some billionaire to park in his 50-acre garage?

The oil-cooled engine is a long-stroke engine that helps with low and mid-range torque. It can beat any 350cc Enfield in power as well as top-speed.

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

Harley-Davidson X440– There I said it and don’t regret admitting it.

It is not ugly nor a poor person’s substitute. It is actually a wonderfully designed and ingeniously engineered motorcycle. Moreover, it showcases adaptability for climate and terrain for a motorcycle. Besides, wasn’t Harley-Davidson always meant to be a motorcycle for the working class and not a fancy fashion accessory for some billionaire to park in his 50-acre garage?

The motorcycle is available in three variants and the top one is called X 440 S which only comes in a deep black color. All of them carry only the Harley-Davidson badge and branding. It is built on a tubular trellis frame which packs all the power and performance tightly between your legs. This is the only motorcycle in the segment offering auto-illumination and hazard lights. All LED lights, dual-channel ABS, USB charging, GPS navigation are some other features. Only the top-variant can get you a HOG membership though.

The oil-cooled engine is a long-stroke engine that helps with low and mid-range torque. It can beat any 350cc Enfield in power as well as top-speed.

The most criticized and obviously standout feature of the X440 motorcycle is its off-putting exhaust pipe. It looks bizarre and even cheap but is it? The nation of India follows closely the EU emission norms. Along with that is the noise pollution restrictions. I guess, they made the best possible exhaust pipe that can work with the engine’s purpose as also produce a “firing” that announces the Harley-Davidson on the street. The “thump” mania of Enfield “silencers” have also been dampened by the exact same laws and regulations.

If only, the top variant had more color options, but that would drastically change the variables for the accountants at their factory. The number crunching calculator holders, do hold all production models at ransom—the return on investment and effort—a tangible number that is derived through thinning hair of these mathematical “genus”.

Hence, the perfect, targeted product called Harley-Davidson X440 has been meticulously engineered, designed and marketed with precision. You can test-ride it before rejecting its looks. Once you know what it can do, you will know what you were missing. The catch, they won’t shine on stateside showroom floors.

For those who came in late, Harley-Davidson made an exit from India in October 2020 after ten years of being the most popular “premium” segment motorcycle brand in India. Apparently, they expected to do more than just outsell Triumphs and Polaris Indians. They had hoped a nation of billion people would at least buy a million units of a motorcycle costing more than a Mercedes entry level sedan model in India.

While this nation is the largest producer and consumer of two-wheelers, it is not for the purpose of collecting and customizing that people keep buying this alleged death machine called a motorcycle. We are not weekend riders nor are we people who ride during riding season.

Indians ride all day every day. A motorcycle or a scooter is the preferred vehicle for commute as well as for transport of goods, including commercial or retail goods and restaurant takeouts. One can see an entire family of five on a Honda scooter coming back with groceries from a mall. Everyday, a steady stream of two-wheelers ride to work and back, in-between struggling, haggling and arguing for parking space.

So clearly, Zeitz and his Board of Directors didn’t appreciate the lack of desire for world’s most desired V-Twins in a nation that rides till their butts are as good as horse-hooves. They wrapped up their statistics, numbers that don’t reveal their success and popularity and HOG rides in India—and overnight shutdown their Indian offices, abandoning their dealerships, showrooms and customers.

How does one ever build confidence in a company or a brand that acts in such a reckless, fickle-minded and rash method of business operations? Easy! Why not win over the trust of the most trusted Indian brand in India?

So, Zeitz & Co (because that’s all there is to Harley-Davidson legacy it seems) came up with a plan to make a comeback without coming back!

They franchised the Harley-Davidson badge to Hero MotoCorp, which is the world’s highest selling two-wheeler manufacturer. Originally, they had started as a partner to Honda under the brand Hero-Honda. A few decades ago, with liberalization and foreign direct investment being admitted to Indian coffers—Honda went for a solo seat and Hero decided to continue in its two-wheeler journey by coming up with their own models, designs, marketing and branding.

As recently as January 2024, Hero MotoCorp became the first Indian Factory Team to get a overall podium finish in the iconic Dakar Rally which had some grueling new stages such as ‘marathon’ stage and 48H chrono stage.

https://blog.bikernet.com/hero-motocorp-finally-gets-a-podium-finish-at-dakar-rally/

Alas, in Wonderland
So, clearly, this “Hero” was a survivor, innovator and competitor that suited the needs and ambitions of Harley-Davidson for India market. Volume sales was making Royal Enfield into a global player. Additionally, Bajaj two-wheeler brand of India had equity in global brands such KTM and Husqvarna. TVS produced BMW models in India. TVS also purchased rights to Norton while earlier Mahindra Group grabbed rights to BSA, Jawa and Yezdi. This Indian juggernaut was growing heads, wings and tails—expanding and offering a range of models for all mindsets and purposes of riding, in India and overseas.

BTW—did you know the origin of the word “juggernaut” comes from the Indian mythical God “Jagannatha’s” annual journey in the Holy city of Puri, Orissa in eastern India? “Jagannatha” literally means “Lord of the Universe”, i.e. Vishnu.

Since the Middle Ages, Europeans had been fascinated by accounts of the Ratha Yatra “Temple Chariot procession” at Puri, which claimed that pilgrims threw themselves under the wheels of the temple chariots which carried the idols of the Lord and his siblings. The gigantic chariot, its wheels and components are entirely made of wood and joined without any screws or metals.

The word juggernaut was contrived to refer to a literal or metaphorical force regarded as merciless, destructive, and unstoppable. This English usage originated in the mid-nineteenth century and was the early rendering in English of Jagannath, a very important deity in the Hindu pantheon and mythology of north-east India.

Hero MotoCorp itself probably knew that its homegrown rivals are growing at a brisk pace through technical and financial collaborations. It was a deal made in Heaven when Hero was appointed exclusive distributor for Harley-Davidson in India.

Wall Street and Americans themselves may have been vary of the deals with Hero in India and QJ Motors in China. Yet, the one in India made better noise in media –especially Indian media and that’s what matters to get sales numbers rising.

In China, Harley-Davidson released a 350cc model whereas for India, they decided that they gonna beat Royal Enfield by being neither 350cc nor 750cc (refer the formerly India-specific model called Harley-Davidson Street 750). Enfields were churned out at 350cc and 500cc engine power in fixed rigid designs, branding, sales and service. Then they stopped 500cc to promote their 650cc twin engines. Then suddenly they flooded the market with a dozen models, with multiple variants, having differing features and colors. All out of the V-Twin master’s playbook?

Well, Harley-Davidson decided, their India checkmate model will be 440cc, a weird number that Zeitz pulled out of his helmet.

Worse still, it won’t be a twin-engine, the very iconic emblem of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

Why not reintroduce the Street 750 in an updated model? Well, that shite was buried with COVID dead bodies and Zeitz wanted a new playground in old territory.

Okay, yes, it ain’t as pretty as a Road King or Nightster or Iron48. Well, those are still available for sale at Harley-Daivdson dealerships in India run by Hero MotoCorp. So go grab it if that’s where your heart is. They are still prohibitively expensive, but then so is a Polaris Indian Chief or the Scout or a Triumph Bonneville.

Which is why we have the brainstorming between two giant brands to develop something that satisfies multitudes in the market.

At least its not a hogwash. It turned out to be a well-researched and thoroughly tested motorcycle which became a challenger to not just Royal Enfield, but many other brands within the 350+ segment –locally called under the trade term “middle-weight” motorcycles.

While Harley-Davidson is not known for a single-cylinder engine, they have had single-cylinder models till as recently as the 1970s.

https://youtu.be/aNkNzKcw2Ro?si=7wTO1wmeuCXJL_-M

Neither of the newly engaged business partners rushed to rehash a product of theirs for volume sales under the famous badge. It took three years of partnership to finally announce Harley-Davidson X440 to the world. Pre-bookings were surprisingly higher than expected –the price had suggested a low powered, poorly equipped motorcycle.

All that changed with the launch and media and fans getting to ride and post their reviews, video-logs and comments online.

I have to admit, launched on July 3, 2023, the motorcycle is not yet a common sight on urban roads which ply an Enfield at every end of the street. Once bitten, twice shy.

Buyers here buy for a very long-term. Then they also consider re-sale value. In-between it all, there needs to be assurance and consistency for maintenance, service and parts. All this is not very convincing from the better-half, Harley-Davidson, who upped and flew the cuckoo’s nest called Indian automotive market.

Hero MotoCorp is bearing the brunt of the crucifix, carrying the burden of past Karma of its partner, attempting to develop faith in the born-again brand and deliver a second-coming for its American friend in the improving economy & infrastructure of India.

How does this compete with the rapidly spreading, government-aided gospel of electronic vehicles?

Well, there have been explosions of EV scooters in India and fires on EV cars reported in the past. The EV subsidy was revoked and then re-evaluated. Stricter standards and demands were placed on EV manufacturers. While it is common to see EV two-wheelers and cars on the street, their penetration is solely urban. Why? Well, electricity is as much a privilege here as gasoline.

The nation imports 86% of its crude oil requirement, losing precious foreign exchange for it. Hence the push for sugarcane derived ethanol in petrol and solar power generation. Self-sufficiency is the motto but just as seen in Europe, it might ‘backfire’ and slow or stall the pace of industrial and economic growth of India and its people.

Will petrol and diesel disappear? Will there be a riot? Will all the billions of ICE vehicles in the world be collected and burnt in heaps reminiscent of book-burning mania of the Gestapo?

Hey, live or die, loss is the seemingly eternal feeling we have with possessions and people. Are you a person that cherishes what you buy or are you a modern brat who buys, breaks, throws away and buys again?

Don’t lose your dreams and ambitions! Only lose your cash once! Ride a vehicle that matters to you, that you can visualize riding free forever. The motorcycle offers cashback in terms of thrilling experience and epic memories.

Just as the Chinese made Harley-Davidson X350 was denied sale on American soil, ironically by Harley-Davidson USA, in the very same disembodied spirit, X440 is not allowed to be sold in USA. 

While Americans are not allowed access to this vehicle, I believe the rest of Asia and even South America and Africa would love to ride this into new horizons, making record profits in the history of sales charts of nerds at Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Well, they can’t all be square at the top brass, if they made this concept to rock and roll. As for segment leadership—no dice. That’s gonna take a while. Hero MotoCorp is rapidly re-hauling its existing showrooms and service centers to cater to X440 and other possible collaborations including the recently launched Hero Mavrick 440 which uses the same engine and trellis frame as X440.

Slowly but surely, people are getting interested in the X440. There is no widescale advertising and motion picture placement gimmicks. The only way to win over riders is to get them to ride. They need more test-ride vehicles is what I recommend from personal experience.

Will there be a second model from within this price and displacement range by Harley-Davidson? We are eagerly awaiting the next 4th of July hoping pre-bookings for something is announced by Harley-Davidson as the festive seasons starts from late August in India.

Buy it? Reasons? One, for the money’s worth. Two, for the show you will put on. Three, to get ready for your best riding experience for years to come. Now, go, cash it, go!

* * * * 

Burn Out by Wayfarer
with illustration by Wayfarer

The winds slapped his body as he kept his head steady, guiding the Fat Boy through backroads, out past county lines. The roads uneven, but the path was known to him. The brothers had brought the fight to the establishment.

The State however considered them a malignant minority. Even as cops and Congressmen thrashed the group with harsh laws and fines, the rider’s outlook was – all for one and one invaluable Constitution.

As they stood their ground, an underground parking lot exploded.

“Outlaws!”

“Scum!”

Age-old slimy propaganda to delude the masses. In a city that banned ICE engines, it was anybody’s guess what had exploded.

(publication dated 23-March-2024)

READ ALL THE YEAR 2024 ENTRIES BY CLICKING HERE
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Bikernet_100_Word_Fiction_Contest_2024.aspx

Call To Action — U.S. Senate Bill S. 3094

Wednesday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its final rule on tailpipe emissions. The plan calls for greenhouse gas emissions limits for the 2027 through 2032 model years for passenger vehicles. The original plan would have required 67% of new light-duty car and truck sales to be electric by 2032. After pushback from numerous groups, hybrids became included in the calculations and targets were slightly lowered. Nevertheless, over 50% of cars for sale in less than a decade, will need to be electric.

Last year the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act with bipartisan support. The vote was 221-197. The bill prevents the EPA from enacting these rules, thereby protecting the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE).

Unfortunately, the Senate refuses to act. Only 37 U.S Senators are currently supporting the companion bill, S. 3094. If you care about preserving the Internal Combustion Engine, now is the time to act.

Tell your Senators to push back against the mandate for electric vehicles. Click the Call To Action button below! Add your voice to those that want to defend our lifestyle.

There is speculation that new bills will be introduced to protect the Internal Combustion Engine but we must keep up the pressure!

If bikers do not stand up now, will they hear us later?

!!Call To Action!!

Join The MRF — The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. The MRF is chiefly concerned with issues at the national and international levels that impact the freedom and safety of American street motorcyclists. The MRF is committed to being a national advocate for the advancement of motorcycling and its associated lifestyle and works in conjunction with its partners to help educate elected officials and policymakers in Washington and beyond.

PLEASE VISIT : http://mrf.org/

THE CRUISING RIDER’S IDEAL

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

Reserve yours and become a part of history.

Be unique, reserve now!

https://broughsuperiormotorcycles.us

Brough Superior is the first brand to have produced motorcycles that could go above 100 mph. After relaunching Lawrence of Arabia’s legendary S.S.100 and collaborating with Aston Martin to create the only existing bike of the brand, Brough Superior decided to produce the most high end motorcycle of the world: the “Lawrence”.

The Brough Superior Factory is a mesmerizing place where ideas take shape into beautiful objects. Each part of a Brough is thought, drawn and designed by the Factory’s engineers and designers. It is then hand-built with the finest existing materials by Brough Superior’s craftsmen. Hand-built with the best materials available (titanium, carbon fiber, aluminium), the Lawrence benefited the strong local aeronautical industry network to be developed.

Lawrence of Arabia: Eternal Brough Superior icon Lawrence of Arabia, also known as Thomas Edward Lawrence or T.E Shaw (when he enrolled in the Royal Air Force), owned seven Brough Superiors.

Secure your spot for the world premiere of the all new #IndianScout at indianmotorcycle.com/BornFromIcons

Original style and an unrivaled legacy.

Indian Motorcycle

For more information, visit: https://www.indianmotorcycle.com/en-us/

 

I’m a Below The Knee amputee riding a 2019 Street glide. I’ve had issues riding two wheels I’ve had to overcome in riding style and or by modifying the motorcycle. One of the biggest issues I’ve had is when parking the motorcycle. Pushing backwards on flat surface was a challenge enough with a grip of one foot. Add some sand or incline and you would most likely be asked to help me pick up my motorcycle. Due to this I worried where to park, so I could ride out forward. Not an easy task at an event where there are a ton of bikes all jammed together.

                     Baker Drivetrain’s reverse kit solves this issue 110%!

            F6R GIVES DISABLED RIDERS AND OTHERS A PUSH                                                                  BACKWARDS

Baker (www.bakerdrivetrain.com) has been designing, building and testing Harley Davidson driveline products for over 25 years. The F6R kit adds a reverse gear to any existing 2008-later factory Harely Davidson Touring motorcycle. With the required modifications the kit can also be installed in 2007 and later Softail and 2006 later Dyna models. For more information on required modifications, you can call Baker at (517) 339-3835.

 This kit gives you a reverse gear in your transmission allowing you to use your clutch, stock gear shift lever and the power of your Harley power plant. The latest edition of this kit has some solid manufactured components to modify your factory transmission to have R-1-N-2-3-4-5-6.

 To make sure that it will not accidentally shift into reverse it has a lockout. On this model it is operated by a cable that exits the side cover facing to the rear, which allows it to be used with numerous exhaust systems. It is very important when running this safety cable to follow the instructions carefully. This cable must have a 3-inch radius arc and make sure it doesn’t get pinched when running up and through your triple trees and fairing to the lock out lever on your handlebars.

 The Kit, made in the USA, comes with billet bearing door and side covers made from 6061-T6 aluminum. The shift drum is made of 12L14 of billet steel and 4140 billet steel shift forks. Add the precision ground gears and you have quality second to none.

The side door and cover are offered polished or gloss black. Also, the side cover is offered with a hydraulic or cable clutch system. Baker has truly evolved this F6R to meet all the needs of different setups.

 The kit comes with Very Complete Instructions. I strongly suggest you read them carefully as it does require a competent mechanic with knowledge of Harley’s six-speed transmission. One of the major requirements is a 20-ton press for assembly. You will also need the appropriate tools to pull countershaft gear, Inner primary race serviced tool, Pulley locking tool and Primary drive locking tool. The instructions are very detailed and their support line is top notch and quick should you need it.

To install the kit, you will need to take your primary side off, remove the side cover and door of the transmission and pull your transmission gearset out, replace the side door with the provided one, add the new countershaft and shift drum and reassemble. The reverse gear goes in between the door and side cover. And the provided shift drum allows you to shift into reverse. The 4.98:1 ratio reverse gear in the F6R gearset, which is 45% shorter than the stock 1st gear ( 3.34:1). This makes it an essential creeper gear.

 I chose to have my local dealership do the installation. Space Coast Harley-Davidson (www.spacecoastharley.com) located in Palm Bay, FL has a great service team. Their technicians are very knowledgeable and will go the extra mile in taking care of the needs of your motorcycle.

 

 I was a little apprehensive of using the reverse with my prosthetic and not wanting to fall over. That lasted for about ten seconds. The safety lockout mechanism is located on the bottom of your front hand controls allowing easy ergonomic control with your thumb. To put the motorcycle in reverse you will pull in your clutch and shift into first. Then you simply push the safety lever forward with your thumb and shift down again into reverse. The motorcycle will not shift into reverse unless this lever is pushed out and the motorcycle is in 1st gear.

 You will need to ease off on your clutch and remember you are being powered by your engine. My first test was in my driveway and within seconds I was very comfortable with backing up. As soon as you shift back into first gear your safety lever will spring back and you should hear a click and feel tension on it knowing it has locked back into place.

 NOTE  You Are In First Gear Not Neutral

 After a few times using the F6R I started challenging myself with more inclined surfaces, eased my mind and no longer worried about where I would park if situations arose that would normally bother me.

 Even though this system wasn’t designed specifically for bikers with disabilities, Baker Drivetrain definitely helped me continue to ride.

 Without a doubt this was the best system I could have installed on my motorcycle. The only question is why did I wait so long?

 

-MISLED

www.bakerdrivetrain.com

(517) 339-3835

 

www.spacecoastharley.com

Hey,

I’m working with a producer in Los Angeles who has pitched some of my stories and books. We haven’t had much luck because Hollywood has gone WOK and won’t allow certain films to be produced.

If Bikernet blinks once in a while, we’re rebuilding the entire site on a new platform. Hang on…

Let’s hit the news
— Bandit

Click here to read this week’s news only on Bikernet.com

Hey,

I’m working with a producer in Los Angeles who has pitched some of my stories and books. We haven’t had much luck because Hollywood has gone WOK and won’t allow certain films to be produced.

I joked to her that I was working on a story that would fry Hollywood. I mentioned that last week. If you check out the Climate Movie below and read the story, bada bing. We’ve smacked a lot of nails on the head.

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

Check it out. And check out the latest Climate Film, “There is no Climate Emergency. It’s a hoax.” It’s a strange conundrum. The kids who support the hoax are lost. They are anti-oil and anti-establishment, but their program would end up with an anti-freedom dictatorship.

Anyway, check it out. And if Bikernet blinks once in a while, we’re rebuilding the entire site on a WordPress platform. Hang on…

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 LATEST CLIMATE MOVIE—

Last week, Clintel organized the Dutch premiere of Climate: The Movie (The Cold Truth) in the Figi Theatre in Zeist, The Netherlands. Podcaster Tom Nelson, the producer of the movie, was present. It was a wonderful evening in a fully packed (570 people) theatre (see picture above).

This week the film has been released globally and you can watch it for free. The official website is https://www.climatethemovie.net/.

YAMAHA EXPANDS bLU cRU INVITATIONAL 2024 —

Featuring Three U.S. Races and First-Ever Invitation for Three Top Performers from YZ65, YZ85 and YZ125 Classes to Represent Team USA at YZ bLU cRU SuperFinale in Europe

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, has launched its 2024 bLU cRU Invitational series featuring three exclusive motocross racing events in the U.S., followed by a first-ever opportunity for three talented riders to represent Team USA in the YZ bLU cRU SuperFinale in Europe.

bLU cRU Invitational Race Series
Highlighting the bLU cRU program expansion for 2024 is a three-race “bLU cRU Invitational” series that spans the United States. These Yamaha-exclusive races allow owners to enjoy a family-friendly weekend of racing that includes a three-moto format, followed by fun family activities, prizes, exclusive gifts and special guests. Racers who achieve a podium finish in their class will earn an exclusive trophy at the end of the weekend.

This year’s three bLU cRU Invitational events are open to all skill levels ages 4 to 60+ and include:

• May 17-19: Glen Helen Raceway; San Bernardino, CA
• June 21-23: Washougal MX Park; Washougal, WA
• July 12-14: Budds Creek Motocross Park; Mechanicsville, MD

Yamaha YZ bLU cRU SuperFinale in Europe
New to the bLU cRU Invitational series is an incredible and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for three youth racers to compete in Europe at Yamaha’s annual SuperFinale event.

This year, the race will take place during the Motocross of Nations at Matterley Basin in the United Kingdom. Chosen youth racers will be hosted by Yamaha for the week-long experience designed to make them “feel like a factory racer” where they will race a GYT-R kitted, Yamaha-prepared motorcycle as well as receive exclusive Alpinestars gear, along with more perks to make this a lifelong memory of competing for worldwide recognition at an iconic track.

Yamaha’s Team USA will have the opportunity to take home top honors while competing with SuperFinale racers from Europe, Australia and Canada.

Classes eligible for the SuperFinale include:

• YZ125cc: 13 to 16-years-old
• YZ85cc: 11 to 13-years-old
• YZ65cc: 8 to 11-years-old

To be selected, racers first need to compete in at least one of the three U.S. bLU cRU Invitational events, place in a qualifying top three position or be selected by Yamaha as a wild card entry. Next, qualifying riders will need to submit an application and resume to Yamaha. Final selections will be made by a panel of qualified industry judges.

Register for bLU cRU
To kickstart the 2024 racing season, all new and existing bLU cRU members must register on the new bLU cRU website, YamahabLUcRU.com, regardless of past registration.

Stay updated on all bLU cRU program developments by visiting the bLU cRU website, following @bLUcRUofficial on social media, and keeping an eye out for email updates.

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM REPORT—

Exciting news. We’ve expanded the board once more. Marilyn Stemp has come on board from Iron Buffalo Chip. and a long history with the industry to start our fund raising committee and assist me with the marketing side.

Steve Piehl formerly from Harley-Davidson communications arm is now a non-voting member because we also pay him to be our PR arm. He’s also a member of my marketing committee.

Steve’s next press release will cover Scott Jacobs cover painting for the Sturgis Magazine. The annual magazine is growing and changing this year with resourceful content more pages and terrific history pieces.

We shared our first Daniel James museum expansion concept drawing with the board and all were very excited. Two more detailed versions to come in the near future. This one shows a skywalk over Junction Avenue, which would lead to the historic 1936 built auditorium. We might be able to use it for training in the future.

We met with Angela, the new Mayor of Sturgis this week and covered a bunch of helpful topics. We will start attending city council meetings in the next two weeks to enhance our communications with the city. There’s way more to report on regarding our meeting with the new mayor who is a gaming enforcement officer out of Spearfish. But I’ll hold off until next week.

Scott Jacobs will unveil a new flat track champions painting featuring to two number one plate winners Meese and Jarred during the rally at the Museum. The two champs will attend the ride from Scott’s Gallery in Deadwood to the Museum to sign posters.

Gonna be a helluva year!

If you plan to attend the rally, don’t miss the Museum and the Hall of Fame Breakfast. It might be sold out.

LE PERA SEAT OF THE WEEK–Le Pera ‘Tailwhip UpFront’

Internationally recognized ’boutique’ motorcycle seats designer Le Pera’s ‘Tailwhip UpFront’ for 2008 – 2023 (except 2023 and up VVT engine CVO models) is described as “taking the KickFlip one step further.”

An established top-seller and genuine Le Pera original concept, the whipped-up tail of the ‘KickFlip’ combines more passenger comfort with a platform that allows riders to “explore their adventurous side.”.

However, the new ‘UpFront’ gives the driver more ease to reach the handlebars with 6.75″ of back support and a generous 11.75″ wide seating area – wide enough for comfort, but still a narrow enough profile to be stylish.

The real ‘bump’ in the new design though is that it moves the driver a full 2″ closer to the handlebars.

Available in Double Diamond, Pleated or Basket Weave, features include a durable, black Biker Tec cover with bonded polyester thread for durability, molded Marathon Foam, a 16-gauge powder- coated steel baseplate with carpeted seat bottom and countless custom colors and options.

Le Pera celebrated its 50th anniversary as the market’s design leader last year and the still family-owned manufacturer still handcrafts all its seats in-house at its North Hollywood, California headquarters.

LE PERA ENTERPRISES
www.lepera.com

DAV ALERT—

We are two weeks into the Recruit A Warrior Challenge and so many of you have already helped grow our ranks by sharing your recruitment links — thank you so much!

If you haven’t participated yet, now is the perfect time to share your personalized recruitment link with the veterans in your life.

For every new member you recruit by April 30, you’ll be entered into our drawing for a chance to win $1,000! Plus, you’ll also collect recruitment points to be traded in for gear and other rewards.

YOUR 2024 RECRUIT A WARRIOR CHALLENGE STATUS:

DAV Member Name:Keith Ball
Suggested Action:Recruit Now!

Your Recruitment Link:

https://www.mydav.org/dav-membership?a=40759CCE-8A9F-47EF-8DEB-42C75E535B35&r=

I don’t care about the prize, but I do care about every veteran out there. The DAV can help you with your medical benefits. They can help you with your disability status. They can help you with training, finding a job, etc.

You may be depressed and hate the government for your wartime experience, but the DAV can help and maybe even change your life for the better. Give them a shot.

–Bandit

THE REAL REASON THE FEDS WANT TO BAN TIK-TOK–

Nothing that comes out of Washington is the truth. In order to know what American bureaucrats REALLY want to accomplish when they declare a new tyranny…you have to be me. Which no one is.

Only I am me. You are not me. So you don’t know what I know. One of the things I know is why the government wants to ban Tik-Tok. You’re being TOLD it’s to save your “personal data” from China. Trust me, at this point the Chinese not only know more about you than you know about yourself, they know more than everyone about everything. They’ve decided to come out from behind their Great Wall and take over.

Remember, they created gunpowder and paper: both the sword AND the pen. So to speak. However they PROBABLY don’t have social media. So if anything China would be just as interested as Biden in banning it from Americans.

Americans-with-intelligence are so rapidly discovering they are not alone in America that they are finding each other. This scares all bureaucrats but especially Lib ones, or I should say Marxist ones. ‘Cause they’re the same thing.

When government wants to ban something they have to lie about the reason. The REAL reason is always “I can keep my job a little bit longer if I ban this or at least claim to want to ban it.” The reason they give YOU is “to keep you safe from harm.” Government’s JOB is to harm people. That’s why it’s littered with sociopaths.

But the Tik-Tok ban is a little bigger than just threatening bureaucrat individuals. Tik-Tok, et cetera, is threatening the concept of “nations.”

Every government employee on earth will realize, if they haven’t already, some of them are already realizing it. Joe Biden and Co being very high on the list, they are coming very slowly to realize that Tik-Tok and every other social media entity for the first time in human history is on its way to making all governments on earth irrelevant.

This is what is called “a revolution.” What is NORMALLY called a revolution in Politi-speak is forced takeover via tanks. That’s not a revolution that’s “forced takeover via tanks.” Alternating current is a revolution. The jet engine is a revolution. The cotton gin is a revolution. Archimedes’ Principle is a revolution. E=MC2 is a revolution. The fucking ringer-washing machine was a revolution.

Nothing on that list was created by a bureaucrat. Armed-takeover via tanks and machineguns is not a revolution. Armed takeover via tanks and machinegun is warfare. There is nothing revolutionary about warfare. It’s the oldest most useless, least productive, least “keeping everyone safe” thing in human history.

However everyone on earth having the instantaneous, no-postage-required, capacity to speak personally and immediately to everyone else on earth? That’s revolutionary. That’s called The Real One World Government.

Now the LAST thing I want to sound like is a Kent State commie hippie All Power To The People imbecile. However social media entities are ON THEIR WAY to making governments and nations and countries and democracies and republics and oligarchies whatever they fuck THEY are, and kingdoms and empires and senators and constitutions and every tax-supported load of crap on earth….extinct.

For the simple reason that “the people” – you’ve all heard that expression and are convinced it is sacred so I’ll just go along with that – the “people,” meaning Tik-Tok and Fuckbook and X and Instagram and all those things people go-to to complain about shit……we don’t need “representatives” anymore.

We don’t need someone to talk FOR us. We can all now fucking talk to each other individually with everyone, person-to-person, on earth. “We the people” are now actually we the people and not just three words on a preamble that in fact only refer to the people who agreed to the preamble.

We the people can now interact. And because MOST people are sane and sensible…. over a period of time all these sensible people are going to realize….THEY’RE the ones actually running things and that libs and commies and bureaucrats and the journalists who do their damndest to keep libs and commies and bureaucrats in power…are horrifically outnumbered, and that if it comes to an actual fracas…..they’re gonna lose.

They live by deceiving the – apparently very gullible and very trusting – people who can easily overrun them and kick their asses back into Hell where they came from.

THAT’S why Biden is assuring his shitass army of imbeciles that he will sign any bill that comes his way that removes a social-interaction entity from American shores. For once he’s not lying about what he will do.

And there you have it! Now you’re as smart as me! Till next time!!

–J.J. Solari

HERTZ CEO STEPS DOWN– After Catastrophic EV Losses

Buy Electric, lose your job?

CEO steps down after being hit with expensive EV repairs and low resale prices following purchase of 100,000 Teslas

Hertz Global Holdings Inc. is replacing its chief executive officer in the wake of a disastrous bet on electric vehicles that the company began unwinding in recent months.

Stephen Scherr, who ran Hertz for just over two years after three decades at Goldman SachsGroup Inc., has decided to step down, the rental-car company said late Friday in a statement. It’s replacing him with Gil West, the former chief operating officer of General Motors Co.’s Cruise robotaxi unit. West also will join the board of directors on April 1, according to the statement, which confirmed an earlier Bloomberg report.

Scherr, 59, joined Hertz several months after it emerged from bankruptcy and started making splashy wagers on electric vehicles. Under new owners Knighthead Capital Management and Certares Management, the rental company announced plans to order 100,000 vehicles from TeslaInc., sending the automaker’s market capitalization soaring past the $1 trillion mark at the time.

Those bets went awry last year, when Tesla slashed prices across its lineup to keep growing vehicle sales. This hammered the resale value of used Model 3 sedans and Model Y crossovers just after Hertz had added tens of thousands of those vehicles to its fleet.

By December, Hertz started selling off 20,000 electric vehicles, or about a third of its EV fleet. Germany’s Sixt SE — a leading car-renter in Europe — is taking even more drastic measures, phasing Teslas out of its fleet entirely.

Read more: https://fortune.com/2024/03/15/ceo-steps-down-prices-following-purchase-teslas/

WUWT ran a story in January this year, in which we predicted Hertz’s impairment cost for selling used EVs would likely be a lot worse than the $12,250 loss per vehicle they allowed for. Who in their right mind would want a used EV? Especially a used rental EV, which has suffered who knows what abuse?

Remember, any bump, knock or production fault can potentially turn an EV battery pack into a ticking time bomb, capable of napalming any house structure it is unlucky enough to be parked in, that is if it doesn’t BBQ the occupants of the vehicle while on the road.

I guess we’ll know for sure exactly how much Hertz lost on their disastrous EV gamble, when their final EV fire sale numbers are published.

–Essay by Eric Worrall
WUWT

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–

OUTRUSH R MODULAR BLUETOOTH HELMET

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

As usual, I enjoyed this article by Rogue.

–Sam
TX

DIME BAG LEATHERS EXPANSION –

Adam Croft’s product line is expanding. All new handmade leather mudflap key fobs featuring solid bras rivets and solid brass D-rings. “I made the template with 16-gauge steel,” Adam said.

He started making more time-covers. “Got 27 made plus four custom orders.”

He’s finishing ups his custom worktable with a coat of polyurethane. “Just got some new mack brushes, so back to signs and pinstriping this year.”

MIC CEO GONE–

Following the surprise resignation of former President and CEO Erik Pritchard, MIC, MSF, SVIA and ROHVA have appointed interim leadership and retained an executive search team to replace Pritchard.

The boards of the Motorcycle Industry Council, Motorcycle Safety Foundation, Specialty Vehicle Institute of America, and the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association voted unanimously to appoint Scott Schloegel as acting President and CEO of all four Associations.

–Dealer News

“Read the whole tamale on Dealernews.com.” –Bandit

NEED HELP FOR PANHEAD BILLY—

Hey, Skipper! I hope all is well in the great North for you and the Redhead!

I was wondering if you are aware of the fact that Panhead Billy Burrows is hitting a rough patch and needs help? Maybe you can run something in the news/blog for him?

https://www.gofundme.com/f/Panheadbillyneedsourhelp

Peace!

–Ben Lamboeuf
Former Advertising Director
Bikernet.com™

SHOP OF THE WEEK—

Doum Doum Shovel – back office at Custom Chrome Europe GmbH

LostWolf Choppers motorcycle manufacturer

Worked at Team EMD/Garage des Cevennes and Worked at Légion Étrangère.
LostWolf_Choppers

–Sam Burns
Custom Curator
Bikernet.com™

HANG ON FOR THIS–Electric Vehicle Expansion

The Environmental Protection Agency yesterday finalized rules that aim to limit tailpipe emissions from passenger cars and light trucks as part of a broader effort to transition the US to electric vehicles.

The rules direct auto manufacturers to target a percentage of their new vehicle sales toward different types of electric vehicles, starting in 2027 and gradually increasing the targets through 2032. The standards are performance-based, meaning auto manufacturers can decide which types of car technologies to invest in to reach the annually reduced emissions levels of their fleets. As a whole, electric vehicles accounted for 7.6% of new vehicle sales in the US in 2023.

The transportation industry is the largest source of US greenhouse gas emissions, representing 29% of emissions, with light-duty vehicles accounting for 58% of the transportation sources (this is actually a good thing, but they won’t tell you that). The rules are expected to reduce US cumulative carbon dioxide emissions, which contribute to soot and smog, by 7.2 billion metric tons between 2027 and 2055. The figure is equivalent to a year’s worth of all US greenhouse gas emissions.

–1440 DAILY DIGEST

BANDIT’S 100-WORD FICTION CONTRIBUTION–Melanie

A miniature human with a radiant smile and satin skin. Her old man worked the oil fields, so George Wild custom painted his Sportster tank. Her one mission was to collect it in her rusting VW bug.

The magnificent flames glistened on the modified tank. George attempted to fondle the satin button, the tank nearly becoming a weapon. A weakness for abandoned pets steered her off course. The tank became the object of potential scratches and drooling dogs. Groceries dislodged and a fender bender nearly hurled the candy flames.

Still that night a brother rode to club church with a brilliant smile on his face. She made it.

–Bandit
The Bastard in the Black Hills

COMING SOON FROM WINDVEST!!!

We are so close to releasing the new replacement windshields for the 2023/2024 Road Glide CVO and Street Glide CVO Harley-Davidson.

Replacement Windshields
2023/2024 Road Glide CVO

Replacement Windshields
2023/2024 Street Glide CVO

Watch Bikernet for updates on release dates, sizes and colors.
sales@windvest.com
408-762-7180

QUOTES FOR THE WEEK— Here are a bunch of Bruce Lee Quotes

A student once asked Bruce Lee, “You teach me fighting, but you talk about peace. How do you reconcile the two?”
Bruce Lee answered, “It’s better to be a warrior in a garden than to be a gardener in a war.”

“You can’t organize truth. That’s like trying to put a pound of water into wrapping paper and shaping it.”

“It is not daily increase but daily decrease, hack away the unessential. The closer to the source, the less wastage there is.”

“Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do.”

“Don’t fear failure. Not failure, but low aim, is the crime. In great attempts, it is glorious even to fail.”

“If you love life, don’t waste time, for time is what life is made up of.”

Source: https://www.taijutsu.art/2023/09/martial-arts-Philosophy.html

–Wayfarer
International Editor
Bikernet.com™

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

I have used nothing but Frank’s tubes since the late 1970s when Shelby Withrow told me about them in Dallas.

The last chopper I built was the ‘67 Shovel during the covid shutdown and I run +10 overs on it. Have +10 overs on the ‘74 Shovel chop too.

Long live Frank’s Forks.

–David A Pittman
Milwaukee, WI

[page break]

BUILDER OF THE WEEK—Cole Foster, Salinas, CA.

Cole builds bikes and hot rods with a super-tight classic flair and terrific lines.

–Sam Burns
Shop Research Specialist
Bikernet.com™

WIN A HARDTAIL CHOPPER—from Throttle Addiction.

WIN a Throttle Addiction Hardtailed Chopper!

Sportster Chopper giveaway
YOU could be the lucky WINNER of our Chopper + Truck + $5,000 cash giveaway!

We built this tough-as-nails chopper in our shop using our Sportster Hardtail Kit!

EVERY $1 you spend gets you ENTERED to WIN it!

Everything in the shop counts! Merch, hard parts, helmets, fuel reserve bottles, riding glasses EVEN our hardtails!

Check it out!

MORE 100-WORD FICTION FOR 2024– Burn Out

The winds slapped his body as he kept his head steady, guiding the Fat Boy through backroads, out past county lines. The roads uneven, but the path was known to him. The brothers had brought the fight to the establishment.

The State however considered them a malignant minority. Even as cops and Congressmen thrashed the group with harsh laws and fines, the rider’s outlook was – all for one and one invaluable Constitution.

As they stood their ground, an underground propaganda campaign erupted.

“Outlaws!”

“Scum!”

Age-old slimy slogans to delude the masses in a city that banned ICE engines.

–By Wayfarer

New FICTION Bikernet Reader Comment!– Brothers for Truth

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

The overreaching totalitarianism in this story seems so impossible.

However, then I turned on the news and it’s happening??

I really want to see is what kind of reactions you get from other readers.

Climate alarmists have been committing violent acts for a long, long time. It would be curious to see how they react when the shoe is on the other foot.

— Edge
Columbia, SC

THE OVERREACH FILE NOW OPEN—

Yost Challenges SEC’s Overstep of Authority on Climate Disclosure Rule. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost is leading an effort to block the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission from overstepping its authority by meddling in environmental policy.

Suing on behalf of the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, Yost today asked the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit to review a new rule requiring publicly traded companies to report climate-related information to the SEC.

“This isn’t a debate about protecting the environment – it’s question of federal overreach,” Yost said. “The regulator of the stock market has no business setting environmental policy for the country.”

On March 6, the SEC voted to adopt a climate-disclosure rule that requires publicly traded companies to disclose on their registration statements and annual report information about climate-related risks caused by their business.

Yost contends that the rule is an unlawful attempt by the SEC to grant itself broad oversight over environmental issues that have nothing to do with financial markets.

Equally concerning, Yost argues, is how the SEC’s plan to impose immense compliance burdens on publicly traded companies would injure financial markets, industries and investments, including those of Ohio pensioners.

Joining Yost on the petition are the attorneys general for Kentucky and Tennessee. Other states have brought separate suits challenging the rule in other courts of appeals.

A full copy of the filing is available on the attorney general’s website.

Team FEULING and Flying Pig pilot Ruben Xaus made our debut at the 2024 King Of The Baggers season opener– at the legendary high banks of the Daytona International Speedway! Check out some moments from the first double header weekend of MotoAmerica KOB action.

–Feuling Performance

HANG ON FOR THE NEXT 100-WORD FICTION ENTRY–

Eased the old Shovel to a stop. Pulled into the bar parking lot for a quick beer. A little kid approached, not much more than 5, holding a puppy.

He held out the dog to me, and I took it to give it a couple of pats. I turned and the kid vanished. Not wanting to let the little guy go on a busy city street I tucked him in my vest and headed home. On the way his little head poke out into the breeze.

At home I noticed an injury to the hind quarter. The vet unable to fix, I had to let him go.

At least he got to feel the wind in his face.

–Rhys
Heading to Italy to celebrate his 50th wedding anniversary.

THE UNITED NUMBSKULLS ISSUE THEIR ANNUAL SHITSHOW OF PSEUDOSCIENCE AND THE ASS-SOCIATED PRESS BOWS DOWN IN WORSHIP–

https://apnews.com/article/wmo-un-climate-global-change-report-warming-2154285aabb0cf83dc9ca4015ea0016d

The UN, headed by a lump-faced bag of pear-shaped liquid (pictured) named Antonio Guterres, has declared, because another year has gone by since he last declared something, he has declared that global warming is – it’s either off the charts or off the rails or outside the universe…..I can’t keep track.

I DO know that the last time he made the news about making a pronouncement regarding humanity heating one of the planets in the solar system he said that global warming was now global boiling. And no reporters balked.

In other words the planet is now at 212 degrees F. I don’t know if that’s the boiling point of planets, I DO know that it’s the boiling point of water, and the earth, at least at the surface where the surface is…is mostly water.

So I GUESS the earth is now at 212 degrees. Which could be off the charts. I don’t know how high the charts go. But according to the Gute-ster the temperature of the earth is now higher than the chart goes. Apparently, there’s a chart that says how high humans are allowed to heat up the earth – which Guterres says we do – and that the earth has gone OFF the chart and is now on its own, APPARENTLY it’s on its way to turning the solar system into a double-star system.

Apparently every year the UN, an organization that now – with full USA backing and financing – runs the “nations” – all 200 or so of the fuckers.

Every year Sagging Lard Face Guterres gets out of his easy chair and announces to the world that humans are not devolving fast enough into the Stone Age and that as a result humans are destroying the earth by not obeying Antonio Guterres.

The above link just references the Ass-Sociated Press’s version of the UN declaration, but every other “major” “news” failed-novelist depository of bad writers has summoned one or more of their top-tier frustrated Shakespeares to give their own accounts of the UN’s declaration of doom for 2024.

This year one of the additional “secretary general”s (apparently there is an army of secretary generals in the UN) a Miss or Mrs. or, if you ask me, a Mr, ‘cause that puss looks real dude-ish to me, she or he or they was the spokesman of the day for this annual report: a Miss or Mrs. or Mr. or They Celeste Saulo. She or they or it is the sec. gen. of the World Meteorological Organization.

This is a UN sub-world-government like the World Health Organization that ordered the world to close down for two years – which actually happened – during which the flu and not the W.H.O. was held responsible for the ruination of millions if not billions of lives.

Even though the virus, if there even was one, issued no orders or mandates or protocols at any time. By the way, in order to prevent a divorce I got my government shot and two years later got Covid. I didn’t die. The Ol’ Lady got THREE shots….and got Covid. She didn’t die either.

So we’re both alive to probably actually GET a divorce if Trump becomes President and a new disease is announced. Assuming there’s even an election. Which I put at less than fifty-fifty.

Getting back to Celeste Saulo, who I have pictured here twice, one of which has the sad, manly-kissered sack of woe holding the official We Are All Going To Spontaneously Ignite publication that the UN has cordially produced for our enjoyment. Getting back to “her” SHE says that “the earth is issuing a distress call.”

We are dealing here with not only sociopathic deranged piles of shit, they are astoundingly stupid sociopathic deranged piles of shit. Naturally it is something called “fossil fuels” that are causing the earth to issue distress calls. Not volcanoes. And not the farts of the entire animal kingdom but just the farts of American and European domestic cattle.

Oh: at the end of the AP article there is an announcement from the AP that they get paid to run global warming “announcements.” So there IS at least some level of reluctant admission that this is all fucking bullshit “but what the hell, we’re getting paid, and we’re only a bunch of failed-writer hacks just trying to pay our bar tabs.”

Also it took two, not just one, failed novelist journalism majors to write the AP article. I guess because it was so scientifically arcane it required two journalistic intelligences to sort it all out and make it imperative for the reader to obey it and take action. To save the planet. Which is issuing a distress call.

The article has many additional observations and declarations and pronouncements and warnings and implications and predictions and affirmations and iterations and proclamations from something called “colleges” and something else called “experts” regarding something called “greenhouse gasses” which is basically a Kamala Harris-level “word salad” that means nothing since 1: the earth is not a greenhouse and 2: there is no actual thing called a greenhouse gas in the periodic table nor is there anything even called a greenhouse gas inside an actual fucking actual goddamn fucking greenhouse.

In fairness there was no mention of the “carbon footprint.” Another thing that doesn’t actually exist except in political science. Not to be confused with “actual science.” So in other words, someone needs to be fired: this could have been made a lot stupider and someone dropped the ball.

–J.J. Solari

BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS OPEN–A GREAT ANSWER!!

An 84-year-old man is having a drink in Harpoon Harry’s.

Suddenly a gorgeous girl enters and sits down a few seats away.

The girl is so attractive that he just can’t take his eyes off her.

After a short while, the girl notices him staring, and approaches him.

Before the man has time to apologize, the girl looks him deep in the eyes and says to him in a sultry tone: “I’ll do anything you’d like. Anything you can imagine in your wildest dreams, it doesn’t matter how extreme or unusual it is, I’m game. I want $100, and there’s another condition.”‘

Completely stunned by the sudden turn of events, the man asks her what her condition is.

“You have to tell me what you want me to do in just three words.”

The man takes a moment to consider the offer from the beautiful woman.

He whips out his wallet and puts $100 dollars into her hand…

He then looks her square in the eyes, and says slowly and clearly: “Paint my house.”

Our needs change as we get older, and we tend to look for bargains…

–EL WAGGS

QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–BAD BOY BERRY

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

I think the article is great. I love the humor and detail that was given to the bad boy! Very much enjoyed this article.

–Cat Hammes
WI

NEW FROM THE TEMPLE OF INSPIRATION—There’s Hope

I Rather Attempt to Something Great And Fail, Then Do Nothing And Succeed

As I reflect on the wisdom of Helen Keller, I am deeply moved by her profound insight despite facing profound challenges. Her words, “life is a daring adventure or nothing at all,” resonate within me, prompting contemplation of my own journey.

Each twist and turn, every trial and triumph, has contributed to my growth and understanding. As we reflect on her journey, we are reminded that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, the human spirit can soar.

Through my own experiences, I’ve come to appreciate that failures are not setbacks, but stepping stones to success.

How often do we allow fear of failure to hinder our progress, missing out on countless opportunities? How many doors remain unopened, how many dreams remain unfulfilled, simply because we hesitated to seize the moment?

Today, I choose to recognize and seize the opportunities presented to me, knowing that each one is a gift waiting to be unwrapped.

And so it is.

Namaste’

–Yale

PRAISE THE LORD AND PASS THE AMMO—

Sorry, the news went bananas today.

Here’s another sketch for our metal-art Hamster auction item. I’m having a discussion or two about the Hamsters. We give them shit about being rich, but we are missing the point from a number of positive perspectives. Originally, the Hamsters were made up of custom motorcycle builders and company owners. These were hardworking riders who built cool shit for the industry.

Okay, so they ride flashy bikes, but I’ve started to notice how many times these guys have stepped up to help the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and charities like the LifeScape children’s hospital, meals on wheels, Kids Ride, etc.

They’ve gone out of their way to help training in High Schools and most of these efforts took place far from their homes. And from a member to member standpoint, if you’re a member and need something or help with a build, there’s serious assistance to be found within our ranks.

Here’s an AI version from one of my son’s buddies. I’m going to make this and donate it to museum fundraising auction.

I struggled with clearance between starter housing and my rear chain on the VLXAFL5. I ran into a guy who said, “Go see Todd at Greer’s Indian in Deadwood. I did, they strapped it down and machined it. I had it back the next day.

Life is insane and then you die. Thank the highbar spirit for Whiskey…

Ride Fast and Free Forever!

–Bandit