Hey,

Everyday is a miracle. I wake up saying, “Today is going to be amazing.” It could be that I’m going to receive the crates I need to keep this departure moving. It could be something she said yesterday. It could be a new motorcycle paint job or some parts.



It could be a party. Last week I receive a fortune cookie and the message said, “You will receive a surprise very soon.” It didn’t lie. I read something recently about being lucky. Some 40 years ago I walked into a Chinese Restaurant in Calabasas, had lunch and received a fortune cookie. I cracked that puppy and read the message. It said, “You will be Lucky for Life!” I have been.

Luck is not a myth. It’s a mindset. If you feel lucky, you are positive luck will come your way, so you look for it, you foster it, you follow up on it, and you have a blast.

If you feel unlucky, you’re not looking for shit. So, what do you get? You got it. Let’s hit the news. It’s going to be a lucky day.



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







BIKERNET BOOK OF THE WEEK CLUB–THE MOTOLADY’S BOOK OF WOMEN WHO RIDE: MOTORCYCLE HEROES, TRAILBLAZERS & RECORD BREAKERS written and curated by Alicia Mariah Elfving, founder of TheMotoLady.com and the Women’s Motorcycle Show, and arguably the most notable advocate for women in the motorcycling hobby.

The MotoLady’s Book of Women Who Ride subverts all the tired women-and-motorcycle tropes, offering the true stories of the women past and present who ride and wrench as well as anyone, proving every bit as indispensable to maintaining and growing a positive motorcycling culture.

Elfving presents more than 70 figures in the motorcycle world, from the Americas to Europe and even the Middle East and South Asia—stunt riders, racers, builders, customizers, organizers, and more. Elfving links today’s women motorcyclists with those of the past and illustrates the freedom represented by two wheels, and how motorcycles allow women to transcend cultural expectations confidently

This book arrives as the number of women riders is increasing every year. Women make up 19% of motorcycle owners, up from less than 10% under a decade ago; among Millennials, women make up 26% of all motorcycle owners.

For a review copy, just reply to this email with your address; you can also preview the book here: http://bit.ly/3qPKdVB





READER RIDING RHYME— A lil’ rhyme for the Scooter Trash out there: The Suns in My face, The Wind in My hair, I’m off chasin’ dreams again without a care

Fork in the Road, Toss of a Silver Dollar, Which way to go it will Decide, Won’t let them catch me on this Midnight Ride, Mr. Seger Lived out your Songs, With a few from a guy name Buffett along

Sand in the Bearin’s and Broke Down, But all is Fine, Beautiful Beach Bunnies Helped to Pass Time

Hollister, Gulf Port, Sturgis, Rt. 66 in Depew, Can’t Remember it all Witches Brew

Livin’ Easy Lovin’ Free, Who could Disagree

Here I am on the Run Again, here I am Chasin’ Dreams Again

Here I am in Lifes Rage, Burn The Page

In another City In another Town, Get the Hell Away before They bring you Down

Ride Free, With No One to Answer to but Me

Flat Tires and Busted Chains, Empty Faces are all the Same, And so are all the Names

Suns in My Face, Winds in My Hair, I’m off Chasin’ Dreams, Without a Care

FuckTheWorld as We Say, Ride Free, No One to Answer to, Just Me.

Ride On In The Wind. I’m no writer as if you couldn’t tell so you can edit it if you find it worthy of print.

Stay warm, I may see Ya’ll soon. Ride on In the Wind.

— Blacksheep







NEWS FROM OPERATION GRATITUDE–As we continue to fight a global pandemic, our hope is that many new veterans, service members, and their families will participate in and lead OG service projects. They will play a vital role in helping us achieve our mission, and in the process, unite our country and our individual communities.


Sara took the next step like so many of our recipients and became a volunteer at our Assembly Day in Philadelphia, bringing dozens of Airmen and military families with her to pay it forward. She then went on to further that service by organizing a delivery of Battalion Buddies to new military children in her squadron during the pandemic and wrote a blog about our military families program which perfectly captures the essence of what we do as an organization.


And here is where Sara’s service with Operation Gratitude shows the true potential of veterans and military families helping us bridge divides between civilians and first responders in communities nationwide: Sara joined our Ambassador corps last fall and single-handedly coordinated a community-wide appreciation luncheon that impacted 100 police officers, firefighters and EMTs. Bringing together Chambers of Commerce, the local VFW post, dozens of businesses, and civilian and military families serving side by side, she built bridges with first responders in two small towns near her husband’s new duty station in Illinois on National First Responder Appreciation Day. The very next week she organized a similar service project in her driveway where the civilian-military community came together yet again to assemble care packages for doctors and nurses at their local hospital.


Over the next few weeks, you too have a chance to do exactly what Sara and Jared did as OG Ambassadors. In response to a state of emergency in Texas, we are going to lift the spirits of up to 5,000 first responders in Austin, Georgetown, and Killeen. Under the leadership of our VP of Marketing and Communications, Army Spouse Danielle Tenconi, military families stationed at Fort Hood will serve side by side with their civilian neighbors to assemble and deliver our care packages and a much needed, morale boost to first responders working around the clock. With the help of our volunteers, we will strive to do the same thing to recognize frontline responders in other parts of Texas and other states ravaged by snow and ice storms, frigid temperatures, and COVID-19.

Join the effort!








HANG ON FOR THE GEORGIA GRUNDLE RUN 5— September 17-19 2021

My limited experiences with Ranger, Georgia consists of a railroad track, chicken farms, and the best party this side of the Mississippi River—The Georgia Grundle Run.

Whether the event happens in the middle of summer on a chicken farm, or on 69 acres of private property blessed by the beautiful weather leading into the Fall, there is no way I will miss this party. Georgia Grundle Run 4…20 went down back in September and you can bet your bottom dollar I was there.



GGR is a no-holds-barred event that the boys from Long Brothers Choppers put together. I honestly feel like the event was tailor-made for me. They have combined my two passions, choppers and professional wrestling, in a perfect amalgamation of partying, choppering, catching up with buds, and the thrills of the squared circle. Anyone who knows me, knows of my passion and respect for the business of professional wrestling. So, when I heard that GGR was teaming up with Renegade Championship Wrestling out of Chatsworth, Georgia, at GGR2, I made it a priority to be there that year and every year since.

A new addition to the event this year was a free-to-vend swap meet. It even came in handy for some folks who had those pesky mechanical issues on the way in and needed a set of points or new chain by the time they got there.



Being able to shop for parts to fix up your bike while partying, or picking up a few odds and ends for future builds was an added bonus. The Black Dog Tattoo Tour trailer was also there all weekend, setting permanent reminders in the flesh of those in attendance. And the sponsored raffle delivered yet again with tons of goodies from makers, brands, builders, craftsmen, and craftswomen all over the country.

It was nice to see the ol’ “Whack-a-Honda” brought back to life from the parties of bygone eras. However, having a sweet spot in my heart for those plastic road beasts, a tear or two may have been shed. After the sun went down and the bludgeoning ceased, the beast’s limp, shattered carcass was hoisted atop round bales of hay, and its lifeless body was offered to the old gods in a pyre fit for an ancient king.

Putting together a party of this scale is not an easy feat.


I was standing by my van when I told my wife that I had better go see who wins the raffle to get a photo of the winner for the “Smut Butt Magazine” feature. As I walked over to the crowd and heard the numbers being called, I reached into my pocket and pulled the little purple and red ticked from beneath my keys. I looked at the numbers on the ticket as Cody read them aloud over the speaker. He read them again. I read along, number by number. I was in shock. I looked to my left. I looked to my right. I was speechless. The numbers he was reading were the numbers on my ticket.

–Grundle
Chop Cult




A WORD OF TWO FROM THE MING BALL’S TEMPLE OF DOOM ON INTEGRATION—

Man, ordinarily is a crowd. No man ordinarily is one, but many. And that´s why there is so much noise within – many voices, many faces – and a constant quarrel. One part wants to do one thing. Another part is simply against it and wants to do something else. It is a miracle how we go on managing to keep ourselves together. Otherwise we are constantly falling apart. There is no center. The master is missing.

There are only servants, and each servant is trying to claim masterhood. For a moment each servant sits on the throne, proclaims himself the master, and in that moment you think, “This is the master.” When there is anger, anger becomes the master, but soon it will be gone. It is a constantly changing scene. After anger comes regret. Then regret is the master and you feel sorry. Sometimes it is love, sometimes it is hate, and the scenes change so fast. Still you do not become aware that you cannot be so many things. We become identified with anything that comes in front of us. When the cloud of anger is there we think we are anger. When the cloud of love is there we think we are love. When compassion is there we think we are compassion. When sadness is there we think we are sadness.

We are none of these – we are the watcher! Anger will come and go and the watcher abides. Sadness comes and passes by and the witness remains. To remember that witness more and more will make you integrated, because that is the only center which is everlasting, eternal. Only on the eternal rock of witnessing can a real life be built.

This moment remember only one thing, because that is the very spirit of the awakened one. Be a witness. Just watch and don’t get identified with anything. You are not the body, you are not the mind, you are not any spiritual experiences either. You are just a witness. Witnessing is the greatest science for inward revolution.

–Osho
The Madman’s Guide to Enlightenment

–from the Wayfarer
Supreme Monk
Ming’s Temple at the base of the Gray Mountain
India





A MESSAGE FROM THE TWISTED ROAD–Twisted Road member Clay G. talks about his life on bikes (both moto and motorized) and the best rides in his home of Nashville. Read on to find out what he’s done with the extra cash he’s made from having his bikes rented on Twisted Road.

Tell us about your riding experience. How long have you been riding, and how many bikes have you owned? How did you first become interested in riding?

I’ve been riding off and on for 40 years, starting on the venerable Honda CT70 that was a hand-me-down from my older cousins way back when. It was great because a few of the other kids in my neighborhood had Peugeot 103 mopeds and just like that, I had the fastest two-wheeler on the block.

I currently own a little Suzuki TU250X and am really loving my Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom that I bought in 2019. Probably gonna be an UltraGlide next.



The photo above is my 49cc hand-built bike, totally custom everything. It’s a HuaSheng motor on Micargi beach cruiser—for that terrifying early 1900s riding experience. I used to ride to work on it and she’s street-legal here in TN. I probably put 300+ miles on her.



Have you taken any long moto trips? Tell us about them – where did you go, where did you stay, who did you ride with?

Not yet; I haven’t had the time, but soon! The longest trip the group I ride with has taken was was only a little over 300 miles to hit some regional breweries in Tennessee and Kentucky. BS Brewery in Springfield and Asgard in Columbia are our favorites. Of course, everyone likes taking the Trace (Natchez Trace Parkway) down to the village of Leiper’s Fork for Beer, BBQ and good live country music. Great spot to check out other bikes.


Tell us some more about you – where do you live? What kind of work do you do?

I’m a Nashville chef and restaurateur for over 20 years. I’m working on a new project @punkwoknashville after my last restaurant SILO was destroyed in the March 3rd tornado.

Read more on the Twisted Road…






TUNE IN ALERT– American Masters – Charley Pride: I’m Just Me Set To Air February 23 at 5pm CT on NPT-HD

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — PBS Nashville (Nashville Public Television) continues to celebrate Black History Month and Charley Pride with a February airing of American Masters – Charley Pride: I’m Just Me which can be seen on NPT-HD Tuesday, February 23 at 5:00pm CT.

American Masters – Charley Pride: I’m Just Me traces the improbable journey of Charley Pride, from his humble beginnings as a sharecropper’s son on a cotton farm in segregated Sledge, Mississippi to his career as a Negro League baseball player and his meteoric rise as a trailblazing country music superstar.

The new documentary reveals how Pride’s love for music led him from the Delta to a larger, grander world. In the 1940s, radio transcended racial barriers, making it possible for Pride to grow up listening to and emulating Grand Ole Opry stars like Ernest Tubb and Roy Acuff. The singer arrived in Nashville in 1963 while the city roiled with sit-ins and racial violence.

But with boldness, perseverance, and undeniable musical talent, he managed to parlay a series of fortuitous encounters with music industry insiders into a legacy of hit singles, a Recording Academy “Lifetime Achievement Award” and a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame.

The film includes original interviews with country music royalty, including Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker, and Marty Stuart. It also includes several on-camera conversations between Pride and special guests, including Rozene Pride, Willie Nelson, and other fellow musicians.

The film also features many songs from his repertoire of classic country hits, along with more modern cuts like “Standing In My Way,” from his latest album Music In My Heart, released in 2017.

“At a time when African-American singers were more notable for R&B hits, Charley Pride followed his passion for country music, overcoming obstacles through determination and raw talent to make a lasting impact on the genre and create a legacy that continues today,” said Michael Kantor, executive producer of American Masters. “We are honored to share the inspiring, and largely untold, story of this barrier-breaking performer with viewers nationwide.”

Notable talent in the film:
• Charley Pride
• Garth Brooks
• Dolly Parton
• Willie Nelson
• Tanya Tucker (narrator)
• Brad Paisley
• Darius Rucker
• Marty Stuart
• Sylvia Hutton
• Charlie Worsham
• Jimmie Allen
• Whoopi Goldberg





NEW FROM THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM–1932 Harley-Davidson VL
?Jimmy Washburn Stunt Bike

The December 7, 1948 Santa Clara, California newspaper, The Sportsman, featured stunt rider Jimmy Washburn on its front page as he was contracted to perform on a fair tour. It cites that Washburn rode a large circuit of events on his stripped down 1932 Harley-Davidson VL. By then Washburn had become an international crowd favorite and his stunt riding destinations included six states, Canada and “the land down under,” Australia.

Washburn began his stunt riding career in 1929 by crashing through a flaming board wall as part of an auto racing event at Alum Rock Speedway in California. The newspaper article gives a good history on Jimmy and says he performed at Chicago and New York World’s fairs in the era and won the International Congress of Dare Devils at St Louis in 1933 and 1934 by, “Hurtling through mid air on his motorcycle over eight sedan cars, a stupendous leap of 65 feet through space, being 15 feet above the ground at the highest point.”

Cyclemania and Crash Donovan were two MGM films Washburn is featured in. His wife Vi was part of some of his acts which involved him riding blind folded, or hooded, “up a narrow ramp…and leaps the heavy machine over his prone wife.” That stunt ended when… when a bad plank broke, but Vi suffered no injuries.

Washburn’s stunts also included riding the VL through a flaming 25-foot-long tunnel, fueled by ”Twenty gallons of high octane Ethyl gasoline…”

Washburn’s career lasted into the 1950s but according to his son, ended in a burning car stunt at San Jose Drag Strip in the mid-1950s. Washburn was to drive a gasoline doused car, with a bomb in the trunk, down the strip. Unfortunately, some fuel landed on him and he sustained second and third degree burns and had skin grafts, spent a lot of time in the hospital.

Luckily, the bomb did not detonate. Stunt riders like Washburn and Knievel often sustained serious injury, possibly part of our fascination with their riding, their careers.



John Parham bought not only Washburn’s VL Harley stunt bike at auction about six years ago, but also trophies, photos and even a ledger in which Washburn recorded his performance expenses. His promotional expenses like programs, ads and banners, but also lumber for his flaming walls, also ushers, concessionaires and others who played a role in the stunts are among entries.

While motorcycles can survive the times, it is rare to find so much of a stunt rider’s history through memorabilia and artifacts as his family have kept with Washburn’s bike.

While the most interesting thing about this Harley VL is its stunt riding history, before it was stripped down for shows it was a typical VL, the model that followed the successful “J” models.

You can see quite a few modifications Washburn made to the bike including the chrome plated tubular shield that probably helped him crash through burning board walls. Foot board are replaced with pedals, the back fender bobbed and the sharp edge protected by reinforced rubber, a crisp lucky “7? painted on number plates.


And here’s a little information on Harley-Davidson VLs, one of the Motor Company’s finest machines. The first Harley-Davidson VL’s appeared mid-year in 1929. Unfortunately, this was two months before the stock market crash and the new motorcycles had a few mechanical problems. The engine is a true flathead, otherwise known as a “side-valve,” an improvement over the J as was its new frame. Here and abroad the 1930s were tough times and soon after release of the V models bikes sales declined to their lowest in 20 years.

With Harley-Davidson low on funds there was more focus on paint and graphics than further technical improvement, and the V models were beautiful machines. But keep in mind that the landmark OHV twin also hit in 1936, the 61 cubic inch “EL” we now call the Knucklehead. With great optimism, no doubt, the Knucklehead was developed in the Depression era.

Harley’s first V-Twin came out in 1909 and set a path the Motor Company would stick to for as long as they made motorcycles; the 45 degree V-Twin, exceptions being the 60 degree V-Rod and VR1000 road racer. Compared to the J Model, the VL offered some new features, but weighed almost 100 pounds more. New gasket technology offered detachable cylinder heads, there were interchangeable wheels and bigger brakes.

The VL also offered a lower seat and more ground clearance. The V produced 28 horsepower, the higher compression VL pumped out 30, the VLH about 34 horsepower. Lubrication remained total-loss. The new fork was a forged “I-Beam” design with “Ride Control” friction damping, battery and magneto versions of the V and VL were available.

Two-tone color schemes included striking Maroon with Nile Green plus Sherwood Green with Silver, Teak Red with Black, Dusk Gray and Buff, Venetian Blue with Cream. Our featured bike was painted more recently in a scheme similar to what the master stunt rider, Jimmy Washburn used.

Jimmy Washburn’s Harley-Davidson and related memorabilia are part of the Jill and John Parham Collection.



Specifications:

Engine: Air-Cooled V-Twin
Type: 45 Degree Side Valve
Bore & Stroke: 3.44 inches x 4.00 inches
Displacement: 74 Cubic Inches
Compression Ratio: 5.5 : 1
Ignition: 6V Battery, Coil & Points
Carburetor: Linkert M51
Lubrication: Total Loss
Starting: Kick Only
Horsepower: 30 HP
Primary: Duplex Chain
Clutch: Dry, Multi-Plate
Final Drive: Chain
Transmission: 3-Speed, 4-Speed Optional
Frame: Double Down Tube, Steel
Front Suspension: Leading Link Sprung Fork
Rear Suspension: Rigid, Sprung Seat
Brakes: Drum Front / Drum Rear
Wheelbase: 60 Inches
Wheels / Tires: 4.50 x 18 /. 4.50 x 18
Weight: 545 Pounds
Top Speed: 90 MPH, Solo Bike







[page break]



AUSTRIAN MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM BURN REPORT—According to our inside report, the vehicles they had on exhibit were too burnt to document for the insurance purposes.






The fire that destroyed this state-of-the-art facility and all the exhibits including —- motorcycles was caused by electronics. The printer in the security system got the info on tape.





–Don Whalen
Official Motorcycle Curator
Bikernet.com





THE NUCLEAR CARD–
Today, The New Yorker magazine has published an article that says, “Much of what we think we know about nuclear is wrong. Instead of being the most dangerous energy source, it is one of the safest.”

This is significant because The New Yorker more than perhaps any other publication has led the campaign to fear-monger about nuclear energy for 75 years.

Occassionally, the magazine has written fairly about the technology, drawing attention to the long-term potential of things like fusion and other far-off nuclear energies.

But today’s piece recognized why today’s real-world nuclear power plants are essential for keeping electricity cheap, reliable, and clean, and yet are being threatened with closure in California and around the world.

Five years ago, when I founded Environmental Progress, I consciously chose to make the campaign to save California’s last nuclear plant, Diablo Canyon, our first initiative.

The movement to save Diablo and other nuclear plants has grown significantly ever since. Environmental Progress has played an essential role in saving nuclear plants in Illinois, New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, Ohio, South Korea, and in building new plants in Britain and South Korea.

Today, there is a grassroots movement of pro-nuclear groups which hold rallies, write opeds, and create Tik Tok videos about Diablo Canyon and other critically important nuclear plants. One of those groups is Mothers for Nuclear, an inspiring grassroots movement organization created by Heather Hoff and Kristin Zaitz, who are the subject of the New Yorker story.

We will save Diablo Canyon. The plant is set to close in 2025 and be replaced mostly by natural gas. We need to keep up the pressure on California Governor Gavin Newsom, and other gubernatorial candidates, who claim to care about climate change, to keep the plant operating until 2065.

If the pro-nuclear movement makes as much progress in the next five years that it made in the last, our victory is assured. But we can’t do it without you. If you would like to volunteer, please reply to this email, with a sentence or two about how you’d like to be involved, and we will connect you with one of the important efforts underway

And, either way, please consider making a donation to Environmental Progress so that we can continue to build the pro-nuclear movement.

As always, if you make a donations of $100, we will send you a signed copy of Apocalypse Never, or a Save Diablo, Atoms for Peace, or Marie Curie t-shirt!



–Michael Shellenberger,
Founder and President
Environmental Progress
2569 Telegraph Avenue




QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
THE TRUTH BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for February 18, 2021

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/THE_TRUTH_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_February_18_2021.aspx

“Hauled off and questioned by authorities.” Just hire the same attorney the AG of South Dakota did – problem solved. – Doug

— Doug White
Buchanan, MI







MISSOURI REINTRODUCES BILL TO ELIMINATE MILEAGE RESTRICTIONS FOR HISTORIC VEHICLES
DON’T DELAY! Please contact the members of the Senate Committee on Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety to request their support for S.B. 278:
YOU MAY USE THE FOLLOWING POINTS IN YOUR MESSAGE:

S.B. 278 would allow historic vehicles to be issued license plates without a per-year mileage restriction.

S.B. 278 recognizes the burden that the current system of tracking places on historic vehicle owners.

S.B. 278 endorses the fact that historic vehicles are overwhelmingly well-maintained and infrequently driven.

S.B. 278 brings the state in line with other states seeking to reward automotive enthusiasts and expand opportunities for these prized vehicles to be enjoyed.

S.B. 278 recognizes that the collection and restoration of historic and classic cars is an important part of preserving the technological achievements and cultural heritage of the United States.

Overview: SAN-supported legislation (S.B. 278) has been introduced in Missouri that would allow historic vehicles to be issued license plates without an annual mileage restriction. Current law limits historic vehicle owners to 1,000 miles of driving for personal use per year. A similar bill was introduced in the state last year and failed to receive a committee hearing. The bill currently awaits consideration in the Senate Committee on Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety.

–SEMA



THE LATEST FROM NASH MOTORCYCLES— Whether you missed out on the first round of hammers or just want to add to your collection, we’ve just released a limited stainless-steel version of our Double-Knuckle Hammer.



Remember these bangers are individually numbered and Jason always gets #1!







J.J. SOLARI ON SCIENCE OF ENVIRONMENT–
The climate summary, by me: Humans have no effect on the climate. anymore than they have an effect on the orbit of mars. speaking of which there are people who believe the orbit of mars has an effect on humans. Not on dogs and cats, just people, which brings me to the Main Announcement: Climate change people are Reverse Astrologists. Basically, you will be delighted to know that I am the only human on earth who is actually bright enough to be aware of this. Well actually, you and me now. ‘Cause I just told you.

You want to know a great truth of majestic awesomness regarding human caused global warming? I am sure that you do. Who the fuck wouldn’t? I actually know why the idea of human-caused global warming actually exists at all. It’s not a ruse, it’s not a trick, it’s not a ploy, it’s not a conspiracy…..it’s certainly not a fact……but it IS something.



You know what it is? do you know what yin and yang are? It’s that hippy sperm and honky sperm 69-ing each other thing doohicky logo design thing. It’s a so-called representation of the “balancing” of all things via opposites. It’s yin and yang. Human caused global warming is the yang of the yin of astrology.

In astrology the wise and mighty planets – except for the earth – control humans. In reverse astrology the wise and mighty humans – who are guided by the distant planets – control the powerless and ineffective earth. It’s yin and yang. it’s humanity balancing the stupidity scale with an opposing and opposite and equally stupid fuckhead notion.

It’s gathered from out of thin, human-caused, air. That’s all it is: balancing the stupidity, bringing pagan dirt-eating nonsense into nonsensical fruition. It’s Age of Aquarius shit. and only EYE…….. have seen the truth. ‘Cause, ya know, that’s what I do. Thank you.

–J.J.Solari
The Notable One
Bikernet.com





A WORD FROM THE DIME BAG WORLD HEADQUARTERS–Hey yall, hope your path is full of cool motorcycle stuff this past week and this coming week.



This week at Dimebag Leather we finished a handmade leather seat for Mario’s Triumph. Mario with friends started a new Facebook Group called “Chopper Show”, so check it out. One seat after another as us seat makers like to say, we began a custom seat for Carl for his FLH. He sent us a new solo FLH Le Pera seat to customize. Le Pera seats has been a family owned and ran business for over 45 years. Impressive to say the least and another inspiring motorcycle company in our industry.



Moving on, Carl requested the White Tiger from Jerry Garcias guitar art with some filler. Carl was outstanding with his gratitude and appreciation. It was a revival in my soul for me to get that feeling of building a badass motorcycle part for a cool chop.
We are starting to finish a DimeBag Leather handmade leather chopper seat for Flying Pistons Benefit.



I believe they are auctioning off all donated pieces. Check with them. Speaking of Flying Piston Benefit, Adam Croft will be building a handmade King/Queen POWMIA chopper seat loaded with handmade goods with other artists contributing to the seat.

I called upon a longtime friend Robby Smith to help with the seat pan. So, we will cover that. The entire leather seat package will be donated to Flying Pistons Benefit for Children and Veterans. Marilyn Stamp has been very helpful and excited along with others to make this a great event. They always do a great job. Also, Adam Croft will be starting a new seat for Billy Lanes Blue, the is a legendary seat build for a legendary chopper.

New seat work coming weekly and a DimeBag Leather Double Doobie case?!?!?! In the works??? Yup, so be ready for that coming soon. We appreciate your time and energy. We will be in touch and close to the news and video you all provide us.

Thank you.
–Adam Croft
Dimebag Leather
Dimebagleather@yahoo.com







LATEST WEAPON TO HIT THE STREETS–
The Utsidihi is a mid-sized fixed blade knife that is well suited for everyday carry and is also well equipped for various cutting chores, a great knife to take along on a hike or camping trip.

The Utsidihi is made from Nitro-V stainless steel with a Rockwell hardness rating of 59-60. The knife features a 3.5″ blade that includes a Savage Stainless Cerakote finish for corrosion resistance and durability. Weighing in at only 4.5 ounces, the Utsidihi is deceptively light, but tough as nails featuring a full tang and tubed rivet handle construction, this is one tough and durable little knife. The beveled and contoured Explore More (Gray & Orange) G10 grips feature a diagonal texturing that offers a very secure grip without being overly aggressive or uncomfortable, performing well in wet or dry conditions.

The Utsidihi comes with a molded kydex scabbard including two MAD straps that allow for scout carry (horizontal) and inside the waistband (IWB) vertical carry. The scabbard is intentionally more snug on this model so it can be run upside down if you would like. The scabbard is MOLLE compatible so it can be attached to any pack, plate carrier or similar gear with PALS webbing. The scabbard will work with most of the popular clips and mounts like the Discreet Carry Concepts Clip and UltiClip.

Specifications

Overall Length: 7 3/4 in
Blade Length: 3.5 in
Blade Thickness: .130 in
Weight: 4.5 ounces without sheath
Blade: Nitro-V (59-60 HRC)
Handles: Explore More G10
Sheath: Kydex
In the box: Utsidihi Knife, Kydex Sheath, User Documentation





DON HOTOP–From Billy Lane’s page….



Another legend gone. My favorite photo of Don Hotop, of Don’s Speed & Custom in Fort Madison, Iowa.

–BILLY





TIP FROM THE LOWBROW CREW–To most people, the numbers and letters on the side of their tires are cryptic and indecipherable. This guide will help you understand the codes on the side of your motorcycle tires to be sure you know which tires you are currently using, and which others will fit your motorcycle. The tire size will also indicate what size rim strip and motorcycle inner tube is needed. Rim strips are rubber strips that go around the rim, covering the inside edges of the spokes, before the tire is mounted. They help protect the inner tube from a potential puncture from continual wear against the spokes. Inner tubes are common, though tires are also run without tubes on many modern motorcycles with mag wheels.



A- Tire width
B- Aspect Ratio. The smaller the number the lower profile of the tire. In metric this is a ratio between height and width. ex. A 170/80 means the width is 170mm, and the height would be 80% of that. )
C- Rim diameter
D- Load capacity

Size may be indicated in inches, metric, or by letters (alpha). It is helpful to know how these compare with each other so you can compare different brands of tires and see which might be the best fit for your bike. This chart shows the approximate comparison of the different size indicators.



Street Tire Conversion Chart

Inch2.75 / 3.003.253.503.75 / 4.004.25 / 4.505.00 / 5.105.506.00
Metric8090100110120130140150
AlphaMHMJMMMN/MPMRMTMUMV
E- Tire speed rating (ex. S=112mph, H=130mph, V=149mph, W=168mph)
F- Tubeless (TL) or Tube Type (TT) tire.

Rim Widths

British motorcycle rims (Triumph, BSA, Norton etc.) are marked with a letter and number designation. This is helpful to know what tires you can mount on your rim based on the manufacturer’s specs.

WM0WM1WM2WM3
1.50 inches1.60 inches1.85 inches2.10 inches




The following chart shows some common tire sizes, including their width and the diameter. Very handy when choosing which tire will fit your bike, or which motorcycle rear fender to buy to fit the tire you want to run on your new build!

This is just a small selection of the wide array of cool motorcycle tires we stock and ship daily.

BrandSizeWidth (inches)Diameter (inches)
Avon Safety Mileage MKII5.00-165.226.3
Avon Safety Mileage MKII4.00-184.426.7
Avon Safety Mileage MKII4.00-194.327.6
Dunlop D401130/90-165.125.4
Dunlop D404130/90-165.125.4
Dunlop K704.00-184.1726.73
Duro HF3025.10-165.325
Firestone Deluxe Champion4.00-184.2526.6
Firestone Deluxe Champion4.00-194.2527.6
Firestone Deluxe Champion 4.50-184.8427.4
Firestone Deluxe Champion5.00-165.3526.4

See the complete story at Lowbrow.







NEW MAGAZINE IS NOW ONLINE

?MARCH (BIKE WEEK)
FULL THROTTLE 2021
Check it out.

–Toni





QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTIN BAD JOKE LIBRARY–The old man sitting on his front porch down in Louisiana, watching the sunrise, sees the neighbor’s kid walk by carrying something big under his arm. He yells out “Hey boy, what’cha got there?”

Boy yells back “Roll of chicken wire.”

Old man says, “What you gonna do with that?”

Boy says, “Catch some chickens.”

Old man yells, “You damn fool, you can’t catch chickens with chicken wire!”

Boy just laughs and keeps walking.

That evening at sunset the boy comes walking by and to the old man’s surprise he is dragging behind him the chicken wire with about 30 chickens caught in it.

Same time next morning the old man is out watching the sun rise and he sees the boy walk by carrying something kind of round in his hand.

Old man yells out, “Hey boy, whatcha got there?”

Boy yells back, “Roll of duck tape.”

Old man says, “What you gonna do with that?”

Boy says back, “Catch me some ducks.”

Old man yells back, “You damn fool, you can’t catch ducks with duct tape!”

Boy just laughs and keeps walking.

That night around sunset the boy walks by coming home and to the old man’s amazement he is trailing behind him the unrolled roll of duct tape
with about 35 ducks caught in it.


Same time next morning the old man sees the boy walking by carrying what looks like a long reed with something fuzzy on the end.

Old man says, “Hey boy, what’cha got there?”
Boy says, “It’s a pussy willow.”

Old man says, “Hold on, I’ll get my hat.”


–EL Waggs
Certified Librarian
Bandit’s Cantina




LE PERA SEAT OF THE WEEK—Touring Model, Tailwhip, double-diamond seating.

Overview

Taking our popular Kickflip one step further! If it’s more comfort for the passenger or just another platform to let your adventurous side explore, the whipped-up tail will give you what you are looking for!

Shown with Double Diamond seating area. Also available with Basket Weave, Pleated Stitch and our new Gripp Tape material – for when traction is needed! Many other custom materials and stitch graphics are available as well!
Specs

Driver Seating:
14.5″ Wide
Passenger Seating:
6.5″ Wide

MSRP:
$509.00

Part Number:
LK-587DD [’08-’21]







RALLY NEWS–Allegiant Airlines Plans Special Flights To Sturgis.

The Sturgis Rally has already announced that it will be open for business in 2021. This year’s rally dates are August 6 through August 15th, 2021. With COVID still rearing its ugly head, some fear that the rally will become a super spreader event.

Whether 2020s Sturgis Rally was a super spreader event is hotly contested, it’s clear that large groups of people in close proximity increase the chances of COVID transmission. But that is not stopping the Sturgis Rally from once again planning to host the event in 2021.

And now it seems that another company is getting in line to support those who wish to attend the rally. Allegiant Airlines says that it will offer nine special limited routes to Rapid City South Dakota’s, Rapid City Regional Airport. The company says it plans to “offer an affordable option to those who plan to attend the annual City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August.”


Sturgis allegiant

According to Drew Wells, Allegiant’s Senior Vice President of Revenue:

“As summer approaches, we expect a lot of pent-up demand for travel, especially for places where people can hike, fish, camp or visit the beach. With this expansion, we’ve added even more service to destinations known for their outdoor appeal. Now, with Allegiant’s low-cost, nonstop service, travelers will have easy, affordable access to the cities they want to visit.”



The new routes to Sturgis are:

Appleton, Wisconsin via Appleton International Airport (ATW) – beginning Aug. 4, 2021; and
Indianapolis, Indiana via Indianapolis International Airport (IND) – beginning Aug. 4, 2021; and
Peoria, Illinois via General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport (PIA) – beginning Aug. 4, 2021; and
Nashville, Tennessee via Nashville International Airport (BNA) – beginning Aug. 4, 2021; and
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania via Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) – beginning Aug. 5, 2021; and
Grand Rapids, Michigan via Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) – beginning Aug. 4, 2021; and
Orlando/Sanford, Florida via Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) – beginning Aug. 5, 2021; and
Knoxville, Tennessee via McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) – beginning Aug. 4, 2021; and
Punta Gorda, Florida via Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) – beginning Aug. 6, 2021
With all the airlines struggling to stay solvent during the COVID crisis, it appears that Allegiant is willing to double down in support of the Sturgis Rally. What do think about Allegiant’s plans to provide more flights to Sturgis? Let everyone know in the comments below.

–from advrider.com




[page break]


NEW FROM THE MASTER OF LIGHT–Artist David Uhl – Daytona 2021 Commemorative

As many of you know, since 2005 David Uhl has offered a special piece for Daytona Bike Week each year. More details on that later in this email.

** A quick update on his recent “Bounty Hunter” release…the 24 x 24 size has reached “Rare” status and the price has increased from $1,295 to $1,895.

Now back to Daytona! We are happy to announce that this year’s beautiful piece, titled “Southern Comfort”, has just been completed. David painted his favorite model Elizabeth, taking in the welcome sign as she nears her destination for freedom and fun.

After a foot of snow here in Denver last night, we are ready to go! Makes me love this piece even more!

We are now taking orders for the signed and numbered canvas prints, which are available at special Rally pricing through the end of Bike Week (March 14).

These Fine Art prints will come framed and we will also include shipping within the contiguous 48 United States for orders placed by March 14.

** Image size appx 20 x 26.5, $895 framed

** Image size appx 30 x 40, $2,250 framed. NOTE: We are offering a special pre-rally price of $1,895 for orders that are placed prior to March 4th, when the gallery opens in Daytona.

As always, edition numbers will be assigned as orders are taken and matching numbers are available for those who are adding to their Daytona Series pieces.

Please let me know if you’d like to add “Southern Comfort” to your collection. As always, thanks for your time!

–Greg Rhodes
International Sales Director
David Uhl Fine Art
Uhl Studios
303-913-4840


EXPLORE ENDLESS HORIZONS: NEW HARLEY-DAVIDSON PAN AMERICA 1250–
Built to Endure, Designed to Explore, and Engineered for Adventure


The Pan America motorcycle is Harley-Davidson’s explore-it-all machine for riders who see touring as detouring – on road and off. This rugged, powerful, technologically advanced multi-purpose vehicle is designed from the ground up to inspire rider confidence and fuel the spirit of adventure, wherever the road may take you.

Harley-Davidson has leveraged its cutting-edge design and engineering capabilities to create the Pan America 1250 and Pan America 1250 Special, all-new, adventure-touring motorcycles, each designed with premium features, outstanding performance and innovative technology.

“From its inception more than a century ago, when many roads were little more than dirt trails, Harley-Davidson has stood for adventure. So, I’m very proud to present Pan America as the first adventure touring bike designed and built in America,” said Jochen Zeitz, chairman, president and CEO Harley-Davidson. “The Pan America models exude that go-anywhere spirit, shared today by riders in the US and around the globe who want to experience the world on a motorcycle.” That same adventurous spirt is deeply shared by actor and brand ambassador, Jason Momoa, who is joining creative forces with the Company to bring Pan America’s passion for adventure to the world.

Pan America 1250 and Pan America 1250 Special models are powered by the new 150hp Revolution® Max 1250 engine, a liquid-cooled 1,250cc-displacement V-Twin designed to offer a broad powerband that builds to a rush of high-RPM power. To minimize overall motorcycle weight (Pan America 1250 534lb. wet/Pan America 1250 Special 559lb. wet), the Revolution Max engine is integrated into the vehicle as the central member of the chassis.

Pan America models are equipped with technologies designed to enhance the riding experience, including multiple electronically controlled ride modes plus Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements. This broad collection of technologies is designed to match motorcycle performance to available traction during acceleration, deceleration and braking.

The Pan America 1250 Special model is equipped with electronically adjustable semi-active front and rear suspension. As an industry-first innovation, Pan America is equipped with Adaptive Ride Height (ARH), a revolutionary new suspension system which automatically transitions between a low stopped position and optimal ride height when the motorcycle is in motion.

Harley-Davidson design and engineering teams collaborated throughout the process of creating and refining the Pan America™ 1250 and Pan America™ 1250 Special models with a vision guided by utility. Like a good multi-tool, function leads the form of these Harley-Davidson® models. From grab handles to integrated luggage mounts, to a horizontal headlamp configured to better illuminate an off-road trail, function defines style. Inspired by the spirit of rugged North American off-road versatility, the Pan America 1250 and Pan America 1250 Special models stand out visually in the adventure touring landscape, with design that reflects the capability of the motorcycles.

Harley-Davidson® dealers will offer a complete line of accessories for the Pan America 1250 and Pan America 1250 Special models, including three durable luggage systems, and new technical riding gear for men and women developed in collaboration with respected European motorcycle apparel specialist, REV’IT!.

The Pan America 1250 and Pan America 1250 Special models will arrive at Harley-Davidson dealerships in Spring 2021.




LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–
2011 Harley-Davidson FXDF – Dyna Fat Bob for $9,995.00

SEE IT HERE: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9984905

This bike is a super clean Fat Bob with bags



ONLY 28932.00 Miles !!!!!

2011 Sedona Orange Harley-Davidson DYNA FAT BOB FXDF



Some of the features/Add-on’s on this bike

* 96c.i. Motor
* 6-Speed
* Passenger backrest with luggage rack
* Saddle bags
* Drag bars
* Vance & Hince exhaust



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

EZ FINANCING-SHIPPING AVAILABLE!!!

Fill out an online application and ride today!!!

**Open 7 days a week**

Just $9,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155







Experts fear gas prices could hit $3 per gallon by summer due to ‘energy crisis’–ST. LOUIS (KMOX) – The extreme cold that is crippling parts of Texas could be leading to some of the highest gas prices the country has seen since 2019.

Gas Buddy says the national average has been rising for six straight weeks and could jump another 10-20 cents in the next two weeks. The current national average is $2.54. The gas trackers say its due in part to 11 refineries in Texas and one in Kansas have at least partially shut due to the extremely cold weather.

GasBuddy expects the national average could rise closer to $3 per gallon closer to Memorial Day weekend. There’s typically a rise in gas prices this time of year due to refineries switching over to EPA-mandated cleaner summer fuels.

“That’s the fear economist have right now amid the energy crisis that started in Texas,” Tom Busby of Bloomberg reported. “Forty percent of the nation’s oil output is now offline. The governor there banning natural gas from leaving the state to ensure Texas has enough supply and that oil above $61 a barrel, the highest in more than a year.”

Missouri’s current average price is $2.31 and in Illinois it’s $2.77.

Here are some useful tips to save money on gas amidst price increases:

– Shop around: Gas prices can vary as much as $1 per gallon in metropolitan areas. Searching for the best gas prices before filling up with tools like the free GasBuddy app can ensure drivers pay the lowest price.

– Drive mindfully: Aggressive driving can reduce gas mileage by as much as 40 percent.

– Pay and save: Joining a gas station loyalty program or using payments services like Pay with GasBuddy can save drivers hundreds of dollars per year on gas.


–WBBM News Radio

–from NMA







FROM THE GEARHEAD DIARIES–We occasionally remembered how we got started with motorcycles, whether that is riding or building to ride. This is the story of one of those old school guys who helped me .

My Uncle Geno use to tell me stories of the late ‘50s and early ‘60s, that was before he became an engineer in areo-space. He would not go there with me though. I had to find my own way. I found old bikers, so I could learn the ropes of the culture.

I ran across a guy by the name of Ed Walker for that bridge. Ed is on in his years now, I think he told me he is 80 years old and still building bikes and motors. He still owns his own shop but is starting to forget more than most of us will ever know about these machines . His history is deep in the outlaw culture. This means that he is a real classic act. He has spent 65 years as a bike builder. His shop name is Walker’s Engine and Frame.

I got to know Ed around 1980. He is always good for parts and information about bikes. He has been like a big brother to those of us from back in the day. We learned the process of the build and how to get to the final product. His advice on the build is as important as whatever he built for us in the process.

He is now looking at retirement . Guys like that will be missed when that happens. Brothers and Sisters give the man some business so he can make his dream happen. He is located in Torrance on Main and Torrance Blvd.

Choppers forever and forever Choppers
–Gearhead





Avenged Sevenfold and Four Corners Motorcycle Rally–Announces ‘Ride Now and Rock on the Road’ Sweepstakes Building Homes for Heroes

Win the Ultimate Avenged Sevenfold Experience + a 2020 Harley-Davidson Street Glide
Legendary Rock Band Avenged Sevenfold Join Four Corners Motorcycle Rally To Help Build Homes For U.S Veterans

Named one of seven best motorcycle rallies in the United States by Motorcyclecruiser.com
DURANGO, Colo. – Four Corners Motorcycle Rally is proud to announce that they have teamed up with legendary rock band Avenged Sevenfold for the ‘Ride Now and Rock On The Road’ Sweepstakes.

Participants can donate for a chance to win a VIP rock and roll vacation for 2 to see Avenged Sevenfold at a future concert in the continental US (side stage access, backstage tour, lodging, and transportation) PLUS a customized 2020 Harley-Davidson Street Glide from Durango Harley-Davidson, or $20k in cash! Donations will benefit Building Homes For Heroes, who will build a mortgage-free house for a veteran.

Sweepstakes ends March 28, 2021. Four Corners Motorcycle Rally happens annually over Labor Day Weekend in Durango, Colorado; 2021 event dates are Friday, September 3 – Sunday, September 5.


Visit HERE to learn more about those who will be generously affected by your donation through the efforts of the nonprofit organization, ‘Building Homes For Heroes’.

Fans can visit www.FourCornersMotorcycleRally.com to make a donation benefitting Building Homes For Heroes. Donations can be made in denominations of $10, $25, $50, up to $100 – the higher the pledge, the exponential increase in entries*. Entries will close on March 28, 2021. One winner will be chosen at random to win the grand prize.





‘We’re Not Stopping’: Effort to Recall CA Governor Newsom Reaches Key Milestone with 1.5M Signatures–


Leaders of a movement to recall California Democrat Gov. Gavin Newsom say they have enough signatures to force a special statewide election. The organization known as Recall Gavin Newsom 2020 says it has now gathered more than the minimum 1.5 million signatures needed to qualify the measure for the ballot.

Randy Economy, a senior adviser to the organization, says they will continue to work to get hundreds of thousands more and validate them all before the March 17 deadline “We’re not stopping at the 1.5 million signatures that we’ve collected thus far,” he told Fox News. “Our ultimate goal is to get … 1.8 million to 2 million because we don’t want to leave any doubt in anybody’s mind in regards to the validity and the accuracy of what we’re doing here.”

Recall leaders cite Newsom’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has included strict statewide lockdowns on businesses and schools. He has even forced closures of churches. Recent polls show Newsom’s popularity has been sliding among Californians.

Even some state Democratic lawmakers have criticized the governor’s COVID-19 response.

Michael Trujillo, a Democratic strategist who has helped run campaigns for former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, told the Los Angeles Times it’s accurate for the governor to brand the recall backers as highly partisan. But he said that message is undercut when the Left is voicing criticism too.

“I think a lot of rank-and-file Democrats see Gavin Newsom as a combination of Charlie Brown and Lucy, where he wants to kick the football but he pulls it out himself before he can do it,” Trujillo said.

The governor also faced a public drubbing for dining out with friends and lobbyists at an upscale San Francisco Bay Area restaurant last November, at the same time he was telling residents to stay home.

Democrats Cry ‘Partisan Politics’ as California GOP Gives $125,000 to Recall

Over the weekend, the California Republican Party announced it was giving $125,000 to the recall effort. The funds will go toward hiring workers to gather signatures. So far, that work has fallen largely on volunteers, along with mailings sent to households around the state.

Newsom’s chief strategist Dan Newman said, “The facade is gone. It’s never been more clear — they’re admitting that the Republican recall scheme is simple partisan politics.”

If Signatures Prove Valid… Then What?

After collecting and validating the signatures, there’s a set period of time that people can withdraw their signatures, and other paperwork for the recall effort which is required by the state, according to KGO-TV.

If all of the signatures are legitimate, then the Lt. Governor would set the election within the next 60 to 80 days, according to California law. This means the recall election might be sometime this summer or in the early fall.

Could 2021 Be a Golden State Repeat of 2003?

As CBN News reported last month, Newsom lifted COVID-19 stay-at-home orders for the Golden State after he used previously secret projections for future hospital intensive care unit capacity.

State health officials said they were keeping all the data secret because it’s complicated. The release of the data came after coronavirus experts, joined by a public access organization and a business group, said the information should be public, and as Gov. Newsom’s political opponents decried the secrecy.

The secrecy in the Democratic Newsom administration brought recriminations from Republican legislative leaders and from former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer, who is exploring a challenge to Newsom.

“Californians want to follow the science. Instead, we’re forced to follow a governor who decides on a whim the fate of millions of Californians while refusing to release the data behind his contradictory and arbitrary decisions,” Faulconer tweeted.

California’s most recent recall effort was back in 2003 when Democrat Gov. Gray Davis was recalled. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) was the elected successor and served until 2011.

By Steve Waren CBNNews






EARLY TEXAS WEATHER REPORT–
72 today, wasn’t supposed to happen till Wednesday or Thursday.

Just in case people outside of Texas don’t understand the love for Pre-College football. This is a football stadium at an Elementary School…



–RFR





BAD GOVERNMENT FILE NOW OPEN–California DMV hit by a data breach, exposing millions of drivers’ personal information to hackers.

The company that the DMV has been working with to correct and verify vehicle registration addresses was hit by a ransomware attack earlier this month. A DMV spokesperson says that approximately 38 million records have been potentially compromised but data such as social security numbers and birth dates were not part of the leak.

This follows a DMV breach in late 2019 when thousands of social security numbers were exposed.





BIKERNET STAFFER COMMENT–I got to watch the release of the new Harley-Davidson dirt bike today. Nothing impresses me about it. We quit riding dirt bikes when we were kids! They say H-D is not new to these bikes and they show the old war bikes, a different time and a different need.

They really believe these are going to sell? Harley-Davidson made their life’s blood on bikes blasting down the black top not riding in the woods!

I just do not get it!

–STEALTH
Feature Editor
Bikernet.com






WHAT’S NEXT—I spoke to Chris Dunkle, of the Dunkle Brothers about plans to move the shop. There are still more options to consider. I’m hoping to hear from Haul Bikes next week.

Shit is happening fast. And of course some brothers wanted to come over to install a performance upgrade and new cams in a Sportster. Plus, Jeremial and Honor want me to make them some belt buckles. WTF?




Next week, the Bonne Belle will arrive at Departure Bike Works in Richmond, VA. There Lee and his crew will install our new 45 Flathead engine and dyno tune it.

The Redhead and I are packing and planning like crazy. It’ll come together or I’ll die trying…

In the meantime. I would like to buy a 2019 Dyna S. Bartels has one, but I don’t want to buy it in California. We’ll see.

In the meantime, ride fast and free forever.

–Bandit

Press Release: IDTechEx from https://www.scoop.co.nz

IDTechEx expects electric motorcycle sales in Europe to grow at least 50% year-on-year in 2020, building on the momentum of recent years. This is driven by continued policy support from governments alongside start-ups and incumbent OEMs entering the market with new model releases, finds the recent report from IDTechEx.

Growth is also being boosted by consumer awareness and acceptance in Europe of the benefits of electric motorcycles. Besides the low cost of ownership, electric motorcycles improve the riding experience, taking away the noise, fumes, vibration, shifting, and clutching from the user experience, alongside the environmental benefits of low emissions. The result has been strong growth on par with the electric car market since 2017.

How are electric motorcycles different? Electric motorcycles are unique, serious machines with power and energy requirements orders of magnitude higher than other common types of electric two-wheelers such as electric scooters, both the standing kind – think Lime – and the sitting kind – think Vespa.

Indeed, electric motorcycles typically utilize electric motors beyond 40kWp, which is more comparable to those found in electric cars than electric scooters, in a much more restricted space. This high-power need, coupled with the limited space on the motorcycle, means manufacturers rarely use off-the-shelf parts and design motors in-house from scratch. The situation is the same for the battery packs, which actually take up the most space in boxy designs unconventional for the moto industry (even when utilizing high-energy automotive-grade Li-ion cells). In contrast, low energy, cheap LFP packs sourced from China can be used for the low energy needs of electric scooters.

Zero Motorcycles, the global market leader for electric motorcycles based out of California, USA, is a good example. It uses locally sourced NMC pouch cells in a custom pack and has an impressive custom-built permanent magnet AC motor (passively air-cooled). The motor has no transmission and is direct drive to the rear wheel, with instant torque.

The result is that electric motorcycles are expensive compared with equivalent combustion models, and start-ups often focus on developing competition or racing bikes, which are less price-sensitive markets. So, while the market is growing, the price remains the main hurdle: a motorcycle with a 14kWh battery pack sells for over $15,000 today. The issue is exacerbated by the fact that electric motorcycles have the most appeal to environmentally conscious millennials who tend to have less purchasing power than older generations preferring loud pipes. In fact, young people are less inclined to buy a motorcycle in general, which is an existential problem the overall industry is grappling with. The high price of electric motorcycles should naturally improve as battery costs continue to decline from the economies of scale of the automotive industry, which may be enough to entice a new, younger audience.

To learn more, the new IDTechEx report “Electric Two-wheelers 2021–2041” (www.IDTechEx.com/E2W) addresses and forecasts electric two-wheelers with pure electric modes under 4kW (‘electric scooters’) and over 4kW (‘electric motorcycles’) with historic data back to 2015 and forecasts to 2041, with insight into the drivers and uptake by region (China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, EU + UK, US, RoW). The report further explores key technology trends, such as the transition away from lead-acid and the reliance on permanent magnet motors for all power classes. Market shares of companies are provided regionally, based on primary interviews with market leaders.

This research forms part of the broader electric vehicle and energy storage portfolio from IDTechEx, who track the adoption of electric vehicles, battery trends, and demand across land, sea, and air, helping you navigate whatever may be ahead. Find out more at www.IDTechEx.com/EV.

YOUR VOICES NEEDED NOW

Critical Deadline Looms for Comments
to Keep Oceano Dunes Open for OHVs

Comments from enthusiasts and everyone throughout the powersports industry are needed no later than March 2 to protect OHV use at California’s famed Oceano Dunes. Recent proposals threaten to prohibit OHVs or severely limit use there.

Click here to quickly send messages to key state entities, through the Americans for Responsible Recreational Access website. It takes less than one minute to fill out a short form (you can make any edits you wish), and properly formatted letters will be automatically sent to California State Parks, the California Coastal Commission, and the Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission.

Last week, the MIC Government Relations Office sent a special letter to the director of California State Parks, with public comments from 17 organizations, opposing a draft public works plan to limit and phase out OHV recreation at Oceano Dunes.

from https://top40-charts.com

New York, NY (Top40 Charts) Austin-based indie rockers Arrows To Fire have announced their new single ‘I’m Supersonic’, hot on the trail of their pandemic-inspired single ‘A Million Miles Away’, a guitar-driven track that was inspired by struggles experienced during the current pandemic.

Driven by solid guitar power, their sound is in keeping with a tradition of ’90s-rooted alternative rock, only with a current twist.

Just as the previous single ‘I’m Supersonic’ was mixed by legendary producer Tim Palmer (David Bowie’s Tin Machine, The Mission, HIM, U2, Robert Plant, Tears For Fears, Ozzy Osbourne, Goo Goo Dolls, Pearl Jam).

A US-French collaboration, Arrows To Fire is Austin native John Joyo on vocals and French/American guitarist Chris Lavigne (guitarist, composer), who warns listeners about this single “Get ready for a ride and rock on”.

“Chris and I both love Harley Davidson motorcycles and both love anything that goes fast. “I’m Supersonic” is written from the perspective of a vintage 74 cubic inch Harley Davidson Shovelhead motor,” says John Joyo.

“Even though it’s old, it has guts and will kick your ass every time you ride it. This motor is psyched out of its mind to be ridden hard and can’t wait to melt your face off. We basically channeled the energy of one of the baddest motors ever built into this song. Hopefully people will feel that when they hear it!”

Joyo and Lavigne – both biotech entrepreneurs – first met in 2016 during a meeting about medical devices. They soon discovered a shared passion for alternative rock and strong desire to use music as a forum to address varied subjects – both personal and political. It didn’t take long for them to find common ground in sound and grow a path that led to releasing their 2016 debut album.

The band has since blazed its way onto the alternative rock scene with their 2018 album ‘Here We Go’ and a series of YouTube videos that have racked up nearly a million views collectively, most notably for ‘This is Here’, underlining the song’s call to action for planetary preservation. Indie Rock Cafe listed Arrows to Fire a band to watch after their 2018 South By Southwest debut. Amazon’s music curators were equally impressed, including their cover of Golden Earring’s ‘Radar Love’ in their epic Open Road Amazon Original playlist.

Their songmanship influenced by Pearl Jam, Kings of Leon, The Killers, Foo Fighters, The Presidents of the United States of America, Band of Horses, The Hives, Fu Manchu and Weezer, but Chris Lavigne notes, “It’s important to us that we don’t box ourselves in too much or stick to the same sound all of the time because we like to approach music like we approach life – be adventurous, try new things, and be open to inspiration that could come to you from anywhere or from any type of music. We like to think that comes through in the variety of sounds you’ll hear in our new music.”

‘I’m Supersonic’ will be released on February 18 and will be available across online stores such as Apple Music, and streaming platforms such as Spotify.

All songs and lyrics written, performed and recorded by John Joyo & Chris Lavigne
Recorded at the ATF World headquarters in Austin
Mixed by Tim Palmer in Austin, Texas
Mastered by James Bacon in Sheffield, UK

 

Harley-Davidson Pan America Goes Live as 1250 and 1250 Special, All Bets Are Off
by Daniel Patrascu from https://www.autoevolution.com

It’s been a hell of a ride for Harley-Davidson these past few years. In a very short time, it lost its CEO, had to abandon a major market, and decided to realign its racing priorities. It even had to unofficially cancel the launch of some new bikes, like the Bronx, but at the same time managed to hang on to its biggest bet in ages, the Pan America.

The bike, revealed in full on Monday, February 22, is the iconic bike maker’s first major foray into the world of adventure bikes. Harley is finally making a motorcycle that could be easily be ridden both on the road and off of it, and that’s a big gamble for an entity that in recent times liked to play it safe.

As expected, the Pan America will be made available in two versions, 1250 and 1250 Special. Both get their kicks from the same engine of the liquid-cooled Revolution Max V-Twin family, 1,250cc in displacement and capable of generating 150 hp of power. For weight-saving reasons, the engine is integrated into the bikes as the central member of the chassis, helping the 1250 tips the scale at 534 lb (242 kg), and the Special at 559 lb (254 kg).

The 1250 rides on 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, and adds things like cruise control, a 5.6 gallons (21 liters) fuel tank, and all-LED lighting. The Special builds on that with Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), adaptive headlamp, and heated handgrips, among others.

The bikes ride on electronically adjustable semi-active front and rear suspension systems and are packed with electronic rider aides, including ride modes. Harley went one step further in the technology department and is offering something called Adaptive Ride Height (ARH), which is a system that automatically transitions between a low stopped position and optimal ride height when the motorcycle is in motion.

“From its inception more than a century ago, when many roads were little more than dirt trails, Harley-Davidson has stood for adventure. So I’m very proud to present Pan America as the first adventure touring bike designed and built in America,” said in a statement Jochen Zeitz, CEO Harley-Davidson.

“The Pan America models exude that go-anywhere spirit, shared today by riders in the US and around the globe who want to experience the world on a motorcycle.”

To make sure the Pan America appeals to a great number of riders, Harley and its partners will offer all the needed accessories, from luggage systems to riding gear.

Full details about the two versions of the Pan America can be seen on Harley-Davidson website.

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 is an off-road hog
by Gary Gastelu from https://www.foxnews.com

Harley-Davidson is taking the brand into the wilderness.

The Milwaukee-based motorcycle company has unveiled the production version of its first adventure touring style bike, the Pan America 1250.

A far cry from its classic cruisers, the Pan America 1250 was built for on and off-road riding and is powered by the Revolution Max 1250cc engine. The all-new V-twin is rated at 150 hp and 94 lb-ft of torque and serves as a stressed member of the chassis and sends power to the rear wheel through a six-speed transmission and chain.

The 534-pound bike has 8.3 inches of ground clearance and is equipped with a Showa suspension that provides 7.5-inches of wheel travel via inverted front forks and a monoshock rear swingarm. The top Pan America 1250 Special adds a semi-active version that adjusts damping through several ride modes for different surfaces and lowers the bike a couple of inches when its parked to make it easier to mount and dismount the saddle.

Brembo brakes and custom-designed Michelin Scorcher Adventure tires come standard along with a host of electronic traction and stability management systems and a hill-hold feature.

The Pan America’s 6.8-inch touchscreen display is adjustable and provides instrumentation, entertainment and navigation via a connected smartphone app.

Pricing starts at $17,319 for the standard 1250 and and $19,999 for the 1250 Special, which is on par with the big adventure bikes from the likes of Kawasaki, Ducati and KTM, but lower than BMW’s.

The Pan America 1250 is scheduled to go on sale in May.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 ventures well off the beaten path
by Jeremy Korzeniewski from https://autos.yahoo.com

Harley-Davidson is known for lots of things — big V-twin engines dripping in chrome, heavyweight touring motorcycles, leather — but they definitely aren’t known for diving into completely new market segments. The brand-new Pan America 1250 challenges that perception. It’s a clean-sheet adventure touring motorcycle, and even if it’s still sporting a V-twin, this one is liquid cooled and tuned to produce 150 horsepower, 94 pound-feet of torque, a 9,500-rpm redline and “a broad powerband that builds to a rush of high-RPM power.”

That 60-degree, 1,250-cubic-centimeter, double-overhead-cam engine is a stressed member with a front frame, mid frame and tail section bolting directly to it to make up the chassis. A cast-aluminum swingarm stretches the wheelbase to 62.2 inches, which is just a half inch longer than the Ducati Multistrada V4. Cast aluminum wheels measure 19 inches up front and 17 inches at the rear. The seat height adjusts between 34.2 inches in the low position and 35.2 inches in the high position.

An upper-level Pan America 1250 Special model gains electronically adjustable semi-active front and rear suspension, tire pressure monitoring, a steering damper, a center stand, brush guard and skid plate, an adjustable rear brake pedal, an adaptive front headlight and heated handgrips. The electronic suspension automatically drops the bike when at rest and raises back up under motion.

Michelin Scorcher Adventure tires designed specifically for the Pan America come standard, and Michelin Anakee Wild tires with a more aggressive tread pattern will also be offered. Tubeless laced wheels will also be offered.

The radial monoblock four-piston brake calipers were co-developed with Brembo. The 47-mm inverted front fork and rear shock are sourced from Showa and provide 7.48 inches of travel at each end. A tilting 6.8-inch touchscreen display features Bluetooth connectivity and navigation through an app offered for Apple and Android phones.

Road, Sport, Rain, Off-Road and Off-Road Plus ride modes are selectable, each tailoring the bike’s electronics package to suit the needs of the rider and the terrain. The Pan America 1250 features Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements, which relies on an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to offer Cornering Enhanced Electronically Linked Braking, Cornering Enhanced Antilock Braking System, Cornering Enhanced Traction Control System, Cornering Enhanced Drag-Torque Slip Control System, and Hill Hold Control. Cruise control comes standard.

The Pan America 1250 will start at $17,319, which undercuts the Multistrada V4 (which is a clear competitor, though more powerful with 170 ponies from its four-cylinder engine). The Special edition model is $19,999. Both will arrive in dealerships this spring. Naturally, a whole host of accessories will launch alongside the adventure bike, including luggage options, seats and windshields. We expect a few more new motorcycles featuring this Revolution Max engine will be revealed in the coming months.

 

All-New Liquid-Cooled V-Twin to Power Pan America 1250 and Pan America 1250 Special

MILWAUKEE (February 22, 2021) – The Harley-Davidson® Pan America™ 1250 and Pan America™ 1250 Special models are powered by the all-new Revolution® Max 1250 engine, a liquid-cooled V-Twin designed to offer flexible, engaging performance with a broad powerband that builds to a rush of high-RPM power surging through the redline. The Revolution Max 1250 engine has been tuned specifically to deliver desirable power characteristics for the Pan America 1250 and Pan America 1250 Special models, with an emphasis on smooth low-end torque delivery and low-speed throttle control applicable to off-road riding.

“Through its history Harley-Davidson has embraced technological evolution while respecting the heritage of our brand, with engines that produce real-world performance for real-life riders,” said Harley-Davidson Chief Engineer Alex Bozmoski. “The Revolution Max 1250 is a clean-sheet, advanced-design effort that will carry Pan America riders over new horizons with reliability, efficiency, and exciting performance.”

A focus on performance and weight reduction drove both vehicle and engine architecture, material choices, and aggressive component design optimization. To minimize overall motorcycle weight the engine is integrated into the vehicle as the central member of the chassis. The use of lightweight materials helps achieve a desirable power-to-weight ratio. The Revolution Max 1250 engine is assembled at the Harley-Davidson Pilgrim Road Powertrain Operations facility in Wisconsin.

Revolution® Max 1250 Engine

Displacement: 1250cc

Bore x Stroke: 4.13 in. (105 mm) x 2.83 in (72 mm)

Horsepower: 150hp

Peak Torque: 94 ft. lbs.

Peak RPM: 9500

Compression Ratio: 13:1

 

Revolution® Max 1250 Engine Technical Features

V-Twin Architecture
A V-Twin design provides a narrow powertrain profile that centralizes mass to enhance balance and handling, and also provides ample foot/leg room for the rider.
A 60-degree V angle of the cylinders keeps the engine compact while providing space between the cylinders for dual down-draft throttle bodies that maximize air flow and increase performance.

Optimized Design for Light Weight
Reducing the weight of the powertrain contributes to lower motorcycle weight – reducing weight can enhance every aspect of motorcycle performance: efficiency, acceleration, handling and braking.
The use of finite element analysis (FEA) and advanced design optimization techniques in the engine design stage minimized material mass in cast and molded components. For example, as the design progressed, material was removed from the starter gear and camshaft drive gears in an effort to lighten these components.
Single-piece aluminum cylinders with nickel silicon carbide-surface galvanic coating are a lightweight design feature.
Rocker covers, camshaft covers and primary cover are lightweight magnesium.

Stressed Member Powertrain
The Revolution Max 1250 powertrain is a structural component of the motorcycle chassis.
The engine serves two functions – providing power and acting as a structural element of the chassis.
Eliminating a traditional frame significantly reduces motorcycle weight and results in a very stiff chassis.
A front frame element, mid frame element and the tail section bolt directly to the powertrain.
The powertrain is designed to be both strong and very rigid so that it can effectively function as a chassis component.
The rider realizes optimized performance due to a significant weight savings, a rigid chassis and mass centralization.

Liquid Cooling
Heat is an enemy of both durability and rider comfort. Liquid cooling the engine maintains a stable and controllable engine and oil temperature for consistent performance in changing environmental and riding situations.
Powertrain performance is enhanced by tight component tolerances that can be achieved when engine temperature is controlled (there is less expansion and contraction of metal parts).
Desirable engine sounds – a stirring exhaust tone – can predominate because noise from internal engine sources is reduced by liquid cooling.

The engine oil is also liquid cooled, which ensures that engine oil performance and durability will be maintained in challenging conditions.

The cooling system is designed to be esthetically pleasing, easy to service and rugged.
The coolant pump is internal and features high-performance bearings and seals for extended service life.
Coolant passages are integrated into a complex stator cover casting to save weight and reduce powertrain width.
A coolant drain plug is recessed and guarded by a foot peg to limit vulnerability to damage in off-road riding situations.

Offset Connecting Rod Journals
The two crankshaft connecting rod journals are offset by 30 degrees. Harley-Davidson leveraged its extensive experience in flat track racing to help inform the cadence of Revolution® Max 1250 engine power pulses.
The 30-degree offset creates a 90-degree firing order that produces a smooth power delivery, especially at higher RPM.
The cylinders are offset slightly to accommodate the crankshaft design, with the rear cylinder positioned to the rider’s left on the crankcase, a choice made to enhance ergonomics.
The rider may gain control and confidence because the power pulses of a 90-degree firing order may improve traction in some off-road riding situations.
The 90-degree firing order produces a stirring exhaust beat.

Four-Valve Cylinder Heads
Four-valve cylinder heads (two intake and two exhaust) permit the largest-possible valve area.
The rider realizes an optimal performance profile for adventure touring – strong bottom-end torque with a smooth transition to peak power – because the flow of gasses through the combustion chamber is optimized to match the desired performance requirement and engine displacement.

The exhaust valves are sodium-filled to better dissipate heat.
Suspended oil passages within the heads are made possible by a complex casting technique, and reduce weight because the head wall thickness is minimized.

The cylinder heads are cast from high-strength 354 aluminum alloy. Because the heads act as a chassis mounting point, they are designed to be flexible at that mounting point but rigid over the combustion chamber. This is accomplished in part through targeted heat treating.

Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC)
The Revolution Max 1250 engine is equipped with separate intake and exhaust camshafts for each cylinder.
The DOHC design facilitates higher-RPM operation by reducing valve train inertia, which produces higher peak horsepower.
The DOHC design permits independent Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on the intake and exhaust cam, optimized for the front and rear cylinder, to broaden the powerband.

Specific cam profiles are selected to produce the most-desirable performance characteristics.
The drive-side camshaft bearing journal is part of the drive sprocket, a design that makes it possible to remove the camshaft for service or a future performance upgrade without disassembling the camshaft drive.
The camshaft drive chain guides and sprockets have been optimized to reduce as much mass as possible. The chain tensioner is internally mounted and incorporates design features to minimize start-up clatter.

Dual Down-Draft Throttle Bodies
Separate throttle bodies are located between the cylinders, positioned to create minimal turbulence and impedance to air flow.
High-velocity air flow into the combustion chamber is optimized for improved performance.
Fuel delivery can be optimized individually for each cylinder, which can improve economy and range.
The central location of the throttle bodies permits the ideal position of an 11-liter airbox over the engine. Airbox capacity is optimized for engine performance.

The airbox is shaped to permit use of tuned velocity stacks over each throttle body that utilize inertia to pack more air mass into the combustion chamber, which can increase power output.
The airbox is formed of glass-filled nylon with integrated internal ribs that help quell resonance and muffle intake noise. A forward-facing intake snorkel directs intake noise away from the rider. Silencing intake noise permits desirable exhaust tone to predominate.

The circular base of the washable conical air filter provides an optimal seal to the airbox.

Fully Balanced Powertrain
Internal balancers cancel most engine vibration to enhance rider comfort and improve vehicle durability.
Primary balancer: This spiral-shaped, chain-driven balancer located in the crankcase manages the primary vibration created by the crank pins, pistons and connecting rods, and also a “rolling couple,” or side-to-side imbalance, caused by the off-set cylinders.
Secondary balancer: A small balancer located in the front cylinder head between the camshafts complements the primary balancer to further reduce vibration.
The balancers are tuned to retain just enough vibration to make the motorcycle feel “alive.”
Engine balancing contributes to weight reduction and motorcycle performance because engine components do not have to be designed to withstand stress inputs from vibration.

Clutch and Transmission
The Revolution® Max is a unitized powertrain, meaning that the engine and six-speed transmission are housed in a common case.

The clutch is mechanically actuated with a large-diameter cable for smooth, consistent disengagement and minimal drag.
The clutch assist function offers a lighter feel at the clutch lever while maintaining the ability to transmit full torque and power to the transmission.

The clutch features eight friction plates designed to provide consistent engagement at maximum torque throughout the life of the clutch.

A clutch slipper function enables the rider to downshift without over-speeding the engine or slipping or hopping the rear wheel.
To minimize NVH (noise vibration harshness) the primary gear assembly was designed to achieve the optimal balance of sound quality and performance. A custom-designed scissor gear reduces both backlash and gear meshing noise.
Compensation springs in the primary gear smooth out torque pulses from the crankshaft before they reach the transmission, providing consistent torque delivery.

The six-speed transmission shift system features roller bearings to support the shift drum and Teflon-coated shift shaft support bushings to minimize frictional losses and optimize shift quality.
Internal shift components are durable but also as light as possible to improve shift quality and acceleration by minimizing power losses during shift events.

The semi-dry transmission cavity reduces parasitic power loss and increases fuel economy for the customer because gears are not churning through oil.

By MPN staff writers

Last year alone, there were more than 3,100 crashes and fatalities on Arizona roads. And, with people from the west coast moving to the state in droves, ever-increasing challenges continue to emerge…especially with regard to the number of crashes and fatalities statewide. However, one organization – Arizona Motorcycle Safety & Awareness Foundation (AMSAF) –created the first and only program of its kind in the United States to offer discounted training for motorcyclists while promoting a “Share the Road” campaign to reduce distracted driving.

According to Mick Degn executive director for AMSAF, a multitude of corporations, state leaders, small businesses and non-profits, have joined AMSAF to turn the tide on Arizona’s statistics and to encourage positive outcomes.

“Share the Road is a statewide public awareness effort aimed at focusing Arizona motorists on the critical need to be undistracted when driving and to provide scholarships, statewide, to train motorcyclists how to ride more defensively,” said Degn. “This multi-pronged movement, which is geared to reduce the number of rider and driver crashes and fatalities on Arizona roads, is supported and promoted by the Arizona governor, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (AZGOHS), AMSAF, Dignity Health (Chandler Regional Medical Center), Arizona Trauma Association, Law Tigers, RideNow, Rosenbluth Family Charitable Foundation and other interested businesses and organizations.”

AMSAF, which celebrates its 10-year anniversary this year, developed its distinctive program concept in 2011. Initially, AMSAF focused on creating a reduced cost motorcycle training effort for first-time riders and for those with years of experience who need to hone their abilities and receive an endorsement. The goal? To give riders the skills they need to ride safely and defensively. In addition to its scholarship and reduce driving leadership efforts, AMSAF worked with Arizona and major business to develop and promote a helmet assistance program that will help individuals garner a quality DOT full face or modular helmet.

In January 2021, the State of Arizona implemented a hands-off law to penalize people using cell phones. And, because riders and drivers share the state’s roadways equally, AMSAF has expanded its reach to include the rampant problem known as distracted driving. AMSAF’s unique role model program continues to expand awareness with the long-term goal of reducing distracted driving and providing reduced cost motorcycle training.

AMSAF’s mission is to promote safety and awareness and reduce crashes and fatalities. The organization is located in Peoria, AZ.

Link: AMSAF

February 22, 2021 – Fort Worth TX – When Ed Tucker launched the first BikeMaster products in 1981, they were items that every rider might need. Mirrors and Tie-Down Straps. From that day, the brand has been focused on products that are second nature to every rider. Products that make a bike look cooler, go faster, or fit its owner better.  There are tools that make a Master Technician more efficient or a weekend warrior successful. And lots of batteries, cleaners, gaskets, and brake pads.

 

“BikeMaster is a brand with a great legacy and a great future,” said BikeMaster Brand Manager Cynthia Beck. “Our anniversary year will be a time when we re-emphasize our unique place in garages and shops around the country. We’ve already been part of millions of bike projects and our goal is to help every rider feel a special bond with their bike.”

BikeMaster’s product line will expand this year to include additional tools, cleaners, grips, batteries and lubricants. The full product line is available through Tucker Powersports and at top motorcycle and UTV dealers around the United States.

 

By Michelle L. Price ASSOCIATED PRESS LAS VEGAS

Before the coronavirus pandemic, tourist-dependent Nevada had a notorious attraction: It was the only place in the U.S. where someone could legally pay for sex.

These days, even in the state known for sin, the business is taboo.

Legal brothels have been shuttered for nearly a year, leaving sex workers to offer less-lucrative alternatives like online dates or nonsexual escort services. Those in the industry said many of the licensed prostitutes, who work as independent contractors, have struggled to qualify for unemployment benefits since closures began in March and some have opted to take their work into the shadows, offering sex illegally.

Although legal bordellos might seem incompatible with social distancing, sex workers and brothel owners said that’s not the case. Like other close-contact industries such as massage therapy and dental services, they contend brothels should be allowed to reopen with protective measures.

‘We could easily do work at arm’s length, just the same as they do within the massage parlors, which are open in the state of Nevada,’ sex worker Alice Little said. ‘You can go to a dentist and have him put his hands in your mouth. You can go to a tattoo parlor and get your face tattooed right now. … You’re certainly not masked for any of those things.’

A state task force that makes recommendations on coronavirus restrictions hasn’t responded to pleas from brothel owners seeking a way to reopen. And a lawsuit Little filed against Gov. Steve Sisolak last year fizzled.

The Democratic governor recently said brothels, along with other adult entertainment like nightclubs and strip clubs, would stay closed at least through May 1. After that, the state might let counties decide whether to allow those businesses to open, as long as COVID-19 infections aren’t surging.

Prostitution is only legal in Nevada’s estimated 20 licensed brothels, whose sex workers undergo regular tests for sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS and obtain required work cards from local law enforcement after passing an FBI background check.

Other brothel workers who are not comfortable linking their faces to online sex work have had a harder time pivoting to virtual services, she said. Finding a job outside the stigmatized sex industry also can be tough, Little said, because background checks can reveal the work authorization cards prostitutes must have in brothels.

Allissa Starr, who was working at Sheri’s Ranch brothel in Pahrump, about an hour outside Las Vegas, said some women she worked with are illegally offering sex for money despite virus concerns.

Starr said she’s able to cover her bills but can no longer put thousands in savings. She moved to Pittsburgh to live closer to family and save on rent. She’s starting a self-care business but said if Nevada’s brothels reopen, she would come back to work one week a month.

‘It’s a way to easily provide money for me and my family, and it’s a way to provide security,’ Starr said.
Reopening the brothels, Starr said, is ‘a personal risk, just like traveling. If you wear your mask, if the girls got COVID tests before they came to the ranch, I think it could be done safely.’

When brothels in Nevada closed, sex worker Allissa Star moved back home to Pittsburgh to save money, but is ready to return.

 

by Colleen Morgan, Moodie Davitt Report

An exhibition exploring the history and development of motorcycling has opened at San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

The SFO Museum exhibition, in the International Terminal Departures, started on 11 February and will run through 19 September 2021.

According to exhibition organisers, early American motorcycles “reflect a bygone era of mechanical innovation and bold industrial design”. They are prized by collectors around the world and displayed on vintage rides, endurance runs, and at special events.

The exhibition presents fourteen ‘exceptional’ examples made prior to 1916, along with a collection of rare engines and photographs from the pioneering era of motorcycling.

As the presentation points out, “motorcycling in the early twentieth century was always an adventure”.

“Road conditions were generally poor and hitting a pothole or other hazard on a motorcycle supported by a primitive, stiffly sprung suspension could easily throw a rider off the bike”.

It also underlines the need for “athletic ability” to start and ride these machines and that motorcyclists had to be mechanically minded to keep them in working condition.

It follows the development of the motorcycle – “one of the earliest and most exciting applications of another new invention, the gasoline-powered internal combustion engine” – from the 1890s until 1915. The exhibition highlights the progress of motorcycle technology during that period and the evolvement of riding “from a novelty, to a hobby, sport and a reliable source of transportation”.

Early American Motorcycles is one of several exhibitions which are running for limited periods at the SFO Museum. Others include Hair Style, Instrumental Rock ‘n’ Roll, Paula Riff, Amelia Konow and Alternative Process by the San Francisco University School of Art.

The airport also offers a strong line-up of permanent exhibitions which include Pan American Airways, Harvey Milk ‘Messenger of Hope’ and Spirogyrate, an interactive children’s exploration area featuring artwork by Bay Area artist Eric Staller.

The SFO Museum, a division of San Francisco International Airport, is a multifaceted programme with rotating exhibitions on a wide variety of subjects and interactive play areas featured throughout the terminals.