THE CONTEST GOT JUMPSTARTED — NOW LET’S ALL KICK IT INTO GEAR

Blow Up a Sportster by Gearhead
with illustration by Wayfarer

Nicko worked at the garage down the block when his Mom called in a panic. Nicko hauled ass in his hopped up ‘67 Cougar. The alley gate lock to the storage yard swung open. Where is Dad’s Tahiti blown race boat?

“Which way did they go,” Nicko yelled. “Did they steal anything else?”

“I don’t think so,” Mom said.

Nicko ran into the garage and still under the tarp was his turbo-charged Sportster street racer. Nicko flew from the garage in a wheel stand heading West down the alley. When his front 21 touched down, he rolled into the gas station where the thieves stopped to refuel.

(publication dated 15-March-2024)

THE CONTEST GOT JUMPSTARTED — NOW LET’S ALL KICK IT INTO GEAR

She’s Gone by Jeffrey aka JJ Spain
with illustration by Wayfarer

I left Hill City on highway 385 north to Deadwood, I had to see it for myself. The temperature was in the low 30s, a little cold for a ride but it wasn’t respectful to go in a car.

Dark smoke belched from the black mass of rubble, as a small breeze drifted the smokey haze into the pines. A police officer directed traffic while firetrucks and volunteer firemen hosed the area.

Thirty straight rally years did I enjoyed many a beer, burgers and conversations at this place. Now she’s gone.

I hope the Sugar Shack can make it back.

(publication dated 15-March-2024)

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Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative Grants Exceed $1 Million in 2023

Yamaha Continues Empowering Communities and Enriching Outdoor Recreation

MARIETTA, Ga. – March 14, 2024 – Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, is proud to announce the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) contributed over $1 million in grant awards in 2023, marking the largest annual funding total since the program’s inception in 2008. This significant increase, nearly double from the previous year, reaffirms Yamaha’s position as a leader in the powersports industry, advocating for access to public lands for motorcycle, ATV, Side-by-Side, and e-bike owners, and enriching the greater outdoor recreation community.

Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s motorsports marketing manager, stated, “Yamaha’s goal for the Outdoor Access Initiative is to serve as a meaningful resource to those supporting access to public land for all types of recreation. Investing $1 million in one year is a significant achievement. We remain committed to supporting those who work tirelessly to ensure riders and outdoor enthusiasts can continue to enjoy our nation’s outdoor spaces.”

In the fourth quarter of 2023, the funding cycle focused on projects aimed at educating and inspiring the next generation of motorized and outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Two notable recipients were Cycle Kids, Inc. and the Strider Education Foundation, which engage elementary school-aged children in bike riding fundamentals as part of physical education curriculum. Additionally, the Sierra Foundation will provide local 5^th and 6^th grade students the opportunity to attend the Rich Oliver Mystery School 4-week Ride & Wrench camp to learn motorcycle riding and maintenance skills.

“Riding a bike often marks one’s first taste of adventure and independence in an outdoor setting, and Yamaha is thrilled to provide kids with the chance to learn in a safe, structured environment,” Nessl added. “Fostering a love of outdoor recreation is central to our mission, and these grants to school-based programs mark the beginning of many students’ journeys.”

Over $300,000 in grants were awarded in the fourth quarter of 2023 to organizations including:

• Colorado 500
• Itasca County Land Dept.
• Lakeville SnoTrackers, Inc.
• Lutsen Trailbreakers Snowmobile Club
• Northwest Colorado Trail Corp
• Pennsylvania ATV Trail Development
• The Nature Conservancy – Tennessee
• Wild Rivers Coast Mountain Bike Assn.

The application deadline for consideration in the first funding cycle of 2024 is March 31^st. Visit YamahaOAI.com to learn how to apply for a grant and review the submission guidelines, as well as find the grant application form and an informative blog featuring project recaps for inspiration.

Stay connected with Yamaha through channels such as the Yamaha Outdoors podcast, social media @YamahaOutdoors, and by tracking the following hashtags:  #Yamaha, #YamahaOAI, #REALizeYourAdventure, #ProvenOffRoad, and #AssembledInUSA.

Secure your spot for the world premiere of the all-new Indian Scout at indianmotorcycle.com/BornFromIcons

Born from icons. Ridden by legends.

Joey woke up early. He had to blast to work, a new job. The sky shown a brilliant blue with sparce clouds over the vast Wyoming plains. He was new to the area after riding his Sportster out from California and finding an apartment. He immediately faced a daunting issue, though. Winter loomed and motorcycles didn’t fit. He needed to find a garage and a used 4-wheel drive pickup truck. He also needed a dojo and there weren’t any in the small town of Pina.

The growing berg was split by a highway and the founding fathers of the community wisely put the town on one side of the highway and the industrial area and growing oil fields on the other. Joey showered, trimmed his tightly cut Vandyke facial hair, dressed for work and rode a couple of blocks to Mable’s Diner for breakfast. He passed fresh new franchise joints being built like plastic toy boxes and an old brick building being restored. The Pina was clean, vibrant and growing.

Joey rode passed a new bicycle shop. The hippie crew rehabbed an old clapboard building and moved in. He pulled up to Mable’s ’50 stone restaurant front. He kicked his sidestand down and strolled inside to the counter. Folks seemed friendly and happy except for a group on youngsters sitting at a table in the corner. They all wore nylon quilted, fluffy down vests over sweatshirts and goofy knitted stocking caps.

Joey sat down and Shirley the blond bombshell waitress pushed out through the polished swinging door from the kitchen. Her smile completed the sunrise outside. Her teeth white as snow sparkled as did her baby blue eyes. She was a sight for any soiled, grim-soaked oil worker.

“Hey Handsome,” she smiled. “What would you like this morning.

“How about chorizo and eggs but cut the onions,” Joey smiled back. “And I’ll take some coffee and an order of your special toast.”

“You’re working in the oil fields across the highway?” Shirley asked eyeing the stained canvas jacket under his brown leather vest sporting a Sturgis rally pin. She poured him a cup of joe in a ceramic cup as she checked out his bright green eyes and constant smile under his mustache and crisply cut facial hair. Sandy blonde, there was something honest and wholesome about his direct and upbeat nature. He had confidence and looked strong.

“Yep,” started last week.

“Better work hard,” a voice came from behind him. “Those oil fields are going down along with all Fossil Fuel products.”

Joey spun on his stool and came face to face with a bearded hippy in a knit cap. He was angry as a bull with a wooden sliver stuck in its hoof.

“Then I can get a job in your bicycle shop and pay for my growing family with Shirley?” He turned to Shirley and winked.

“We’re going to sue the oil company out of business,” this guy said and stood.

“Where are you getting the funds for that?” Joey returned. “The slum lord George Soros?”

The other three hippies got to their feet, two were American Indians. “We’re killing fossil fuels, just wait and see,” the leader said and they headed for the door joking with one another. They didn’t pay their bill, just tossed a couple of ones and change on the table.

Joey sat back down and turned toward the counter and the lovely Shirley. “My family has lived here for a couple of generations,” she said. “This place is growing finally, we have new streets, new schools. They’re working on bringing a community college here.”

“Good luck with that,” Joey said. “And no more asphalt streets if Fossil Fuels are gone. Hell, your chef won’t be able to cook my chorizo and eggs. It’s nuts.”

“Why is this happening?” Shirley asked.

Joey turned and looked outside through the plate glass windows. He could see his shiny Sportster and the pickups parked at the curb diagonally. The sun glimmered and life was good. “Because they can,” he said. “Don’t you know, we’re doomed.”

Shirley looked at him quizzically and moved onto another customer. Joey enjoyed his breakfast smothered with fresh salsa, the warm coffee and homemade toast.

He rode less than a mile over the highway to the oil fields beyond. He worked maintaining the rigs and at lunch met with the team. “What about the ban Fossil Fuel crew in town?” Joey brought it up over a chicken burrito from the lunch truck. He was a new guy but needed to test the waters.

Some of the guys stared at their plates and didn’t say a word. “There’s a town hall meeting at the end of the week,” an older worker muttered.

“We need to be there,” Fast Fred said, one of the other bikers. Maybe 50, Fred was wide and buffed, with numerous tattoos, maybe a patch-holder at one time. There were three bikers on the crew, Joey one of them.

“I was there for the helmet protests in the ‘70s,” Grizzley muttered a short graybeard and a Vietnam veteran. “If we don’t step up…”

“We will!” Fred snapped. “We will all be there.”

“That’s what bikers do,” Grizzley muttered and they split up to go back to work.

Friday, after work the brothers showered, dressed and rode to the small town hall, concrete building for the city council meeting in the court chambers. A handful of folks sat on either side of the mayor Martha Jones, a large middle-aged woman with a stern look and massive boobs sat in a dress that covered every inch of her being like a tent.

The environmental group in their knit hats sat in the front row and chatted loudly between each other. The secretary, another woman, thin and also middle aged read the minutes from the previous meeting, all normal stuff about the next festival, the plans for the Christmas Parade, new roads and infrastructure being built to allow the town to expand. There was the mention of hiring another police officer and checking the budget for an additional police car.

They voted to accept the minutes and moved on to discuss current issues. That’s when Martha asked for public comment and the alarmist started to shout about banning fossil fuels, suing the oil company, defunding the police and housing issues. This time Joey caught the leader’s name, Richard Marshall, a tall Irish looking sort with a red full beard. He barked a lot.

The startled mayor stammered and didn’t know which way to turn. Joey raised his hand and walked forward to the podium. “Just two things, maybe three. I get it. If we’re doomed, we gotta act fast, but what if we’re not. CO2 can’t be the issue. It’s the molecule of life. We need more not less. Second, we’ve got it pretty good now, the town is growing and these guys want to stop all the goodness and make it bad. So, what the hell are we going to do. I would like to propose a test.”

Richard jumped to his feet. “We’re in a climate emergency. We can’t test, we need to stop everything to do with Fossil Fuels, now.”

“What are you going to do with 80 gallons of oil in each wind turbine?” Joey said.

Richard stumbled and the mayor’s eyes brightened.

“Doesn’t it make sense to see if their plan will work before we step off the cliff?” Joey asked the city council.

“How would you propose to go about this?” The mayor ask, but Joey could tell she was relieved to encounter common sense.

Grizzly stepped forward with a one-page map of the town. He looked at it, rolled it up and used it to point to the framed map on the wall. “Let’s see if we can divide the city. There will be the green side and the oil side. We will eliminate all fossil fuels from the green side and go on with our life on the oily side.”

“We can’t do that!” Richard and his band of greenies jumped to their feet, “We’re here to take over not negotiate.”

The mayor’s gavel slammed against her podium. ?“No one is taking over anything.”

“But big oil is taking over the town,” Richard frothed at the mouth. “It must be stopped. It’s an environmental crisis.”

“Oil brought us wealth, stability, transportation, our new roads, medicine, electricity, you name it,” the mayor said. “It brought us you in your gas powered cars, spandex pants, oil-based tennis shoes and you’re afraid of a test?”

Richard fumed, his bright red beard shook as though it might come alive like Methuselah’s snakes. He sat down and whispered to a couple of his comrades. They slid out the back door.

The mayor, a middle-aged farm girl felt caught in the middle. “I’m going to table this issue for today,” the Mayor said and moved onto the festival of lights. The committee chair got up and gave a lengthily report and there was much discussion of the holiday decorations and who was responsible for what. Shirley from the restaurant stood up. She wore skin-tight denims and a plaid shirt. Her curly waves of blond hair danced on her shoulders as she spoke.

Mesmerized, Joey wanted to capture her attention and moved to a seat she couldn’t miss as she turned to leave. That’s when a knit cap ran in the back door and screamed, “Fire.”

The fire chief ran for the door followed by everyone inside. They discovered Joey’s Sportster seat ablaze and two alarmists handcuffed to his front wheel. They held a cardboard banner containing rough felt pen lettering, “WE MUST ACT NOW!”

Their leader stepped forward to proclaim, “We are not messing around. Fossil Fuel use will end immediately.”

Joey rounded Richard with the fire extinguisher. “We wouldn’t have fire extinguishers without fossil fuels,” he said and blasted his motorcycle. “It’s just like you bastards to do something that makes no sense. If my gas tank had caught fire, your brothers wouldn’t make it.”

The two kids handcuffed to the front wheel squealed as the front tire expanded with the heat and popped. Their cardboard plaque started to sizzle and they screamed to be released.

“I hope you have insurance,” Joey said stepping back from his smoldering bike. “You owe me a new motorcycle.

“They’ll all be banned shortly,” Richard shouted backing away from the flames, afraid.

“What, you’re not going to rescue your comrades?” Joey smacked. He used the fire extinguisher sparingly, allowing the flames to continue toward the gas tank.

The whimpering increased at the flames caught their cardboard banner on fire.

“Should we let them burn?” Grizzly asked staring at Richard who continued his frightful retreat. None of the other alarmist wanted anything to do with the conflict and scattered with their ol’ ladies.

Fast Fred stepped forward, a seasoned outlaw who carried a handcuff key on his keyring constantly. He unlocked the cuffs and the singed alarmist scrambled for safety their hair smoldering.

Joey finished off the motorcycle with the foaming extinguisher as the fire department arrived in their fossil fuel vehicle.

“They just caused 20 times the emissions of all the cars in town for the year,” Fast Fred said. “Sorta like a mini-volcano. Are they going to ban them?” He shrugged. “What’s the plan?”

The portly Mayor stood on the sidewalk. “Hey mayor,” Joey said. “How about that test. Maybe we can get to the bottom of this.”

“This is bullshit,” Martha said startling the others. “Something has to be done. Let’s do it.”

“Hallelujah,” Joey shouted. “We just want the truth, simple. The kids deserve to know what the real deal is.”

“You’re right,” Mayor Martha said. “We are going to divide the town into the Oily Gang and the Green Nation tomorrow.”

By noon the next day, the mayor had the city guys install a chain link fence down the center of town to the bridge leading to the oil fields on the other side of the highway. For security reasons the Green Nation wasn’t allowed across the bridge into the oil fields. Only one lane was allowed over the bridge and one back. No lanes were allowed off the highway into the Green nation, no trucks or fossil fuel vehicles allowed.

As the week progressed the mayor allowed heavy excavators into the Green area to remove all the asphalt. Troops from the local National Guard facility were allowed to walk into the Green Nation to confiscate anything made with fossil fuels. They searched and took all chemicals, plastics, computers, cell phones, you name it right down to women’s panties. All medicines were removed and when folks complained, the town council posted signs on the fence facing the test area, “No Fossil Fuels allowed.”

They sent tow trucks into the area and hauled out any fossil fuel powered vehicles, including lawn mowers and tractors. All natural gas connections were turned off, so stoves no-longer worked, neither did heaters or washers and dryers.

At the next meeting the alarmists looked a little frail and dirty. “We’re going to make this work,” Richard pounded the podium. “The President’s infrastructure bill gives us billions to build wind turbines and solar farms.”

“Sorry,” the mayor responded. “No wind farms, they are full of oil and solar panels are made from fossil fuels. And I need to point out that building fires or using your barbecues to cook won’t be allowed. That’s a no-no.”

“What the fuck,” Richard spat his scruffy red beard shaking. He turned to the three bikers sitting behind him, screamed and attacked pulling a wooden post from his padded vest.

“Sore loser,” Joey shouted and jumped to his feet. They went to blows right in the middle of the city hall city council chambers. The three bikers fought back as the cops from the back charged.

There were eight alarmists, but only four leapt into the violent fray.

As the cops approached one alarmist, a slick looking Hispanic, pulled a pistol and shot one. “We’re defunding you, right now,” he shouted and cocked his weapon again.

Joey made a move on the big man’s wooden bat. He jammed his open palm against the man’s fist, and then slipped his hand along the dowel-like post until he reached the end and the point of leverage. Twisting the wooden weapon, he took control of it, jammed it into Richard’s solar plexus and pushed him far enough away to smack the kid’s revolver arm.

It went off, missing the other officer, the bullet slamming into the wall. The next swing broke the kid’s nose and sent him to the deck.

The cops rounded up the alarmists and drug them off to jail. “You guys won’t have any problem,” a snarky looking cop told them after taking statements.

Three days later the alarmists were back on the streets, cut a hole in the chain link fence and strolled into Mable’s, sat down and drew out a wad of cash. “We need to order,” Richard spat.

Later that day two black SUVs cross the bridge and federal officers arrested the bikers. “What the fuck,” Joey said while being dragged off the derrick platform.

Handcuffed and tossed into the back of the long dark Excursion with tinted windows, they were given their rights but not told what they were being charged with.

The next day while residing in a holding cell in county lock-up, Richard walked into jail looking clean and over-confident. “Just thought you should know,” he said smugly. “I got cleaned up in your apartment. We are taking all the homes and handing them out.” He looked directly at Joey. “We will have the mayor arrested tomorrow.”

“What the fuck for?” Grizzly jumped to his feet.

“Because we can,” Richard muttered. “She’s a racist. She won’t be your friend anymore. We will replace her.”

“So, take some of your federals funds and buy me a new motorcycle,” Joey spat and charged to the bars. “What’s the deal, anti-capitalism?”

“No motorcycle for you, pal,” Richard muttered smugly. “We’re going to take over this town, close the oil fields down and make it ours. Yep, it will be socialists. Everyone gets a home for free, but they can’t own it. I will own ‘em all.”

Two weeks later the three bikers and the mayor stood in front of a county judge for a bail hearing.

“You were far too radical and aggressive during a city meeting,” the judge snapped. He wasn’t tall, but his snarky countenance indicated a small man desperate for power and suddenly he had it. “And the mayor didn’t perform her duty to control the situation. The violence is her fault.”

“What are they charged with your honor?” The oil company supplied an attorney. They needed their guys to be on the job.

“We’ll get to that,” the judge snapped, “but first bail. A man died during this shameful altercation. This must be handled very carefully.”

“These men had nothing to do with the gun fire. In fact, one of them prevented the gunman from firing again, perhaps saving another officer’s life,” the attorney, a young confident man, who was well groomed, direct but unfamiliar with wok politics.
“They attempted to bring sober reality to a difficult climate movement.”

The statement infuriated the judge who mopped his sweating brow and bald head with his white linen bandana, sporting his embroidered initials. “Nothing they are doing, has any political motivation or ideological rationale. It’s entirely a reaction to threatening science, to the mathematics and physics that explain what is happening to our planet. We are doomed if we don’t act immediately. I honor their efforts and will not set bail for six months. This case is closed for now.”

The brothers, jarred by the ruling each reacted differently. Grizzley, pissed off wanted to shout. Fast Fred grabbed the front of his plaid shirt as if he might have a heart attack and Joey pulled on his mustache and looked at the attorney.

The attorney turned to Joey and just nodded. “I don’t believe this. Then he turned to the concerned mayor who slumped in her chair terrified and stared at the wooden deck.

Martha’s gaze simmered. “What’s next?”

The attorney just shook his head dismayed.

“Hey,” Mark said to group as they were led back to their cells. “They don’t have any charges. They don’t have a case. They just want to control this situation and take over the town.” He turned to the mayor who looked disillusioned. “Your political career is over. They’ve assigned a new progressive mayor.”

“What about us?” Joey stepped forward.

“If you keep your noses clean in here, they will drag this out for a year and then charge us with a hefty fine or jail time,” Mark said shifting his briefcase. “I just want to get away from this place. It’s smells of corruption.”

Six months passed and they were finally given bail.

Shirley picked up the crew in Mable’s Diner van and they piled in with the Mayor sitting up front. As Shirley pulled away from the County lock-up curb she looked over at the Martha. “You’re going to choke on the new mayor. He’s all over working with the alarmists to destroy the town and the oil fields. The town has gone to shit.”

“Is Mabel’s still open?” Joey asked.

“Nope,” Shirley said. “They mandated all gas stoves be shut off. We can only make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. They shut down the local chicken farms, and your oil company is gone.”

“When’s the next city hall meeting?” Fast Fred asked.

“This coming Friday,” Shirley said.

“We’re staying in the next highway truck stop,” Grizzly said to Shirley. “The Makeshift Motel.
Our bikes have been moved.”

“Okay,” Shirley said.

“We’ll be at the meeting,” Joey said and touched Shirley’s shoulder. He still had a thing for her, but he didn’t know how she felt. The mystery continued.

The meeting kicked off at 4:30 so the brothers rolled in on their bikes at 4:00. As they rolled off the highway, suddenly they were confronted by the transition. Homeless tents line the streets. Most businesses were closed and drug addicts sat on the curbs. There were no cars or lights on as dusk settled around the town. Trash and debris lined the streets. Illegals moved into the abandoned gas station, but there was no heat or food

As they pulled up in front of Mabel’s Diner Shirley came to the door a terrified frown on her face. Richard pushed her aside and stepped out of the door with a guy in a silky looking suit following. “This is the new mayor, Gavin…”

“I don’t care what the fuck his name is.” Grizzly snapped.

“Motorcycles are banned,” The tall angular, slick mayor said in a creepy way.

“And were taking yours,” Richard said forcefully and pulled on his red beard. He bubbled with authority and power.

Tough guy Fast Fred dismounted to confront the big redhead in his knitted beanie hat. Suddenly the brothers were surrounded and the fight began. Out-numbered four to one, the brothers came prepared with pipes and ballpeen hammers. They fought valiantly but there were too many and they kept coming. Joey signaled to make their escape.

They scrambled to their bikes and fired them to life. “You’re done here,” Richard screamed. “No more bikers in this town. You’re not welcome. He pulled Shirley to his side and wrapped his arm around her.

Wounded and cut, the brothers rode back to the Makeshift Motel where Martha met them. “You’re lucky you didn’t come,” Joey said. “There’s something slimy about that new mayor.

Martha and the cute Hispanic cleaning lady helped clean up the brothers. Joey called the shop in the next town over to thank the owners for fixing his bike. Fast Fred bought a used computer and started to google research the new mayor. Once healed the brothers rode over to the shop in the nearby town for a meeting with a local club of bike builders and shop owners.

“We can’t ride into that town anymore,” Charlie Chrome said, a little guy with a vest full of chromed event pins.

“What the fuck are we going to do about it?” Grizzly said. “Bikers fought for our freedoms back in the ‘70s. When the AMA said we couldn’t race, we started our own races.”

“They kicked the cops out of the town and defunded the police,” Charlie Chrome said.

“If we want it bad enough, we’ll go get it,” Joey said. “I don’t want it for you and me, I want it for the community and the kids. And fuck it, we want to ride free. Besides, did you hear they want to ban chrome.”

“We’ve got a month to get our shit together,” Fast Fred said. “We gotta be smart. This isn’t going to be easy.”

Joey looked around the room at the motley crew of grubby bikers who looked beat and concerned. “Reach out. We will be back in touch with you motherfuckers in two weeks to see if you’re still afraid.” Brothers started to sit up. “If you don’t believe what we are saying ride into Pina.”

“I will,” Rep Ricky raised his hand. “Goddammit, I’m not afraid. I need to see for myself.” A youngster and a member of the AGAVE MC a tequila drinking motorcycle club stood up. “I’m sure my brothers will support me and have a shot of 100% Reposado waiting when I get back.”

“I like it,” Fast Fred got to his feet with Joey and Grizzly. They thanked the brothers for their time and for hosting them.

“This is a no bullshit game,” Joey said. “We’ll be in touch in two weeks.”

They rode back to the scruffy Makeshift Motel. Funds fading, they didn’t have government supported income to keep the freedom fighters going. Seemed strange, but every day they packed every minute with survival activities. Joey trained, Fred lifted makeshift weights, and grizzly hunted for weapons.

At the end of the week Rep (for reposado) Ricky, sorta buzzed rode into the shattered town, over run with homelessness, drug addicts and shuttered buildings taken over by migrants. Dismayed and startled, he almost turned around immediately to escape, but kept going. One truck had pulled over in front of the bicycle shop. As he closed in on the vehicle, he noticed Mexican cartel guys unloading cases of nitazenes tabs—up to 20 times more potent than fentanyl.

There was some disagreement about the payment as he pulled up. “Where’s the rest?” A wiry Hispanic man wearing blue neoprene gloves shouted at Richard. “You get money from the feds and these losers.” He nodded to one of his men who pulled a 9mm auto and shot the environmentalist holding the bag of cash. He snatched the bag of cash as the young radical slumped to the pavement.

The leader pushed the last box of pills off the tailgate. It fell in the gutter, split open and pills scattered everywhere. The cartel guys scrambled into their grubby box truck and turned to leave.

Suddenly, this biker in the center of the street became the object of attention. Ricky recognized his dire predicament, revved into a burn-out 360 degree spin to reverse his direction and get the fuck out of dodge. The roaring FXR almost on its side spun and held off the ensuing cabal of alarmist charging in his direction.

Ricky pulled a wheel stand and headed after the escaping box truck, but not before the same slithering alarmist who gunned down the cop pulled his long-barreled revolver and fired. The bullet slammed into Ricky’s tequila drinking patch and he went down in a shower of sparks sliding along the fossil fuel constructed street surface. He was immediately surrounded by a gang of extremists who kick and beat him until his last dying breath, and then they set his beautiful motorcycle on fire.

Shirley captured the images on her phone from atop Mabel’s and sent a link to Joey. The film went viral. Joey called Country Cycle. Charlie Chrome called the local framers. They set a meeting in a barn in a field far from town. Joey, Fast Fred and Grizzly rode over.

The yard surrounding the large red wooden barn contained a hundred bikes and just as many pickups. Hispanic field workers, winery owners, spinach farmers, corn growers were all there.

Charlie Chrome introduced Joey and he stepped up on a milk crate. “I’m just a grubby biker trying to make a living here and they want to destroy everything we do,” Joey said, not knowing exactly what or where he was going. “Do you guys get it and what the hell are we going to do about it.”

“They want to shut down our farms,” one farmer said. “How can we feed the communities?”

“I just don’t get it,” A corn grower stepped up. “Why doesn’t anyone question their motives?”

“Shooting a guy in the back…” The big round boss of the Wild Agave MC shouted starting to breakdown. “We have got to do something.”

“They’ve pushed too far,” another biker shouted.

“So, what the hell are we going to do?” Joey asked.

Fast Fred noticed a little guy in the back pushing the barn door open, while glancing over his shoulder and bolting out the door. Fred followed. Outside the kid mounted a dirt bike but Fred snatched him before could leave and pulled him inside. The kid squirmed and fought but Fred dragged him to the front and slapped him.

Joey jumped down from the crate. “So, what’s the deal,” he said grabbing him by the collar.

“You people don’t have a chance,” the kids said and pulled a knife. He scrambled back and jumped to his feet. He stabbed a farmer who collapsed.

Joey snatched up the plastic milk crate, using it for protection the fight was on. The kid lashed out attempting to cut Joey, but a farmer handed him a long-handled rake.

“We can kill all of you and burn your homes,” the kids screamed lashing out at Joey and cutting his arm.

Joey struck back with the rake but it broke off.

The kid laughed hauntingly. “The authorities won’t do a damn thing. We own them.”

Joey dodged his knife, smacked him in the face with milk crate and drove the jagged end of the rake handle into his chest. The kid went down, blood gurgling from his mouth. “They’ve got your girl.” He laughed and died on the hay-scattered dirt floor of the barn. Ranchers and farmers started backing away.

“We’re farmers not warriors,” an old obese farmer said opening the wooden slat barn door.

“We can’t get involved with this,” Another business owner said. “I’ve got a family.”

Joey stood in the center as some of the folks in attendance departed. “We can’t give up,” he said holding the bloody rake handle.

“Fuck it,” Joey snapped and tossed the rake handle into a pile of hay. “I’m going to give it hell or die trying. The crowed parted as Joey jammed out the door to his Sportster. He grabbed Fred’s Ballpeen hammer from the scabbard attached to his rear shock. Grizzly tossed him a gun belt loaded with .357 magnum rounds and a 4-inch barrel revolver.

Joey cut a dusty trail across the fields to the highway. He had less than 15 miles to formulate a plan. Emotions running high, he ground his teeth against the wind as he neared the town and dipped off the highway into the storm drain gulley. Leaning his precious Sportster against the grassy dirt wall, Joey stepped back. He knew this might be the last time he rode her. He also knew this might be his last opportunity for escape, run, but he knew there was no escape from what was happening to his country.

Joey snuck into town looking for the back of Mabel’s. Alarmists and illegals seemed suddenly everywhere, but not doing much except destruction. He crept between buildings and around structures. A young guard spotted him, but Joey knocked him out with the ballpeen before he could alert anyone else.

He reached the back of Mabel’s and slipped into the back door to the store room, which was virtually empty and then into the kitchen. He could hear voices in the dining room as he approached. “You don’t have a clue,” Richard said to a lieutenant and to Shirley, who was tied to a dining room chair.

“We are basically taking over this country,” he continued.

“But what about the future?” Shirley asked struggling against her bonds.

“We don’t care,” Richard said. “We’ll be rich and in control.”

“So, you will turn it into a third world country, and then what?” Shirley squirmed some more and Richard smacked her across the face. “Stop, you can’t stop abject destruction.”

“What will you eat, bugs,” Shirley asked and Joey strolled into the dining room.

Richard jumped to his feet. His guard did the same but Joey had the drop on them pointing his pistol. “Fuck integrity and science,” Joey said. “You’ll rule with an iron fist and fuck anyone who doesn’t like it, right?”

“That’s right,” Richard said. “We politized everything from the top right down to city governments, the military and the courts. No one will stop us.”

Joey looked at the counter and saw a jar of some kind of new drug. “What’s this?”

“That’s even stronger than Fentanyl, Nitazene,” Richard said. “This will be in every American high school next year.”

Joey, still wearing his leather gloves grabbed a couple and tossed them to the guard. “Take them, then leave,” Joey ordered. He lifted the revolver and aimed it at the kid and cocked the hammer.

The kid downed them but didn’t make it to the door before he collapsed.

“Strong shit,” Joey said as he cut the ropes incasing Shirley. She jumped to her feet and rubbed her bruised wrists.

“Can you get out of here?” Joey asked.

“Not without you,” Shirley said.

Richard made a move and shoved the table at Joey and then bolted for the door shouting. Joey dodged pulled the bloody ballpeen hammer out of his belt and threw it as hard as he could at Richard.

The hammer head scuffed the side of Richard’s head and he went down but rolled and jumped to his feet as Joey hit him. “Go,” Joey shouted to Shirley. “They’ll be coming.”

“I’ll be back,” Shirley muttered and ran out the back door.

Richard, knocked down again, clamored for the door to alert the alarmist troops. Joey the smaller of the two hit Richard again, but he kicked him away and reached for the door. They fought for their lives crashing from table to the deck. Joey, determined to give Shirley enough time to escape, fought with all he had against the bigger man who seemed hell bent for destruction of everything.

The two of them crashed into the glass door and shattered it. A shard cut Joey and Richard pulled a knife slicing Joey’s cheek. The two of them crashed outside onto the porch and Richard made a final attempt at slitting Joey’s throat. Joey ducked the blade and came up with the revolver. Richard stood as guards started to approach. Joey shot him and he backed into the street and fell in a lump to the dirt.

Richard raised his right arm and pointed at Joey. “Kill him slowly and then burn him alive.” His hand fell to his side and his last breath escaped his quivering mouth.

Surrounded, Joey knelt and fired. He backed into the gunshot shattered and neglected dining room and ran out the back door, where he reloaded the revolver. A bullet whizzed over his head and ricochet off the adjacent wall. Joey ducked and ran down the alley to a shuttered bank building, but the bullets kept coming. He recognized the report from the long barreled 44 mag used in the city hall. The owner came around the corner of the bank along with the rest of the knit-cap radicals.

Joey stuffed the revolver back in its leather holster. The town destroyed, debris tossed everywhere he searched for a chunk of pipe. He a found a chain-link fence connecting rod used for a gate about 3-feet long. As he picked it up two young men rounded the opposite corner, started shouting and charged.

Joey stood between the buildings and knew his time was limited, the shooter would come and he had to move. He swung the galvanized rod and the youngsters cringed and ducked but followed. Joey forced to run directly into the street turned and smacked the alarmist. One went down and the other one backed away. A bullet, large caliper hit the asphalt at his feet.

Joey looked up as Enrique took aim from the top of the bank building. Joey dove and rolled, bullets smacking the pavement around him. He made it alongside the city hall but more attackers came. Some just followed the crowd, no desire to fight, some as mad as maniacs screamed, fools shouted socialist propaganda.

Surrounded, he threw the galvanized pipe into the crowd and drew his weapon. Behind him a voice challenged his position. “So, it’s just you and me,” Enrique said and holstered his weapon.

“I doubt that,” Joey said and turned toward the murderer. “You like to kill.”

“I fit right in with this crowd,” Enrique snarled. “They’re killing the country and I’m killing anyone who gets in the way.” Standing between the two buildings the sun began to set and the shadow grew and spread across the narrow space. Joey pondered his options, but there weren’t many. The crowd behind him expanded but split in case an errant bullet missed its target.

Behind Enrique another group gathered carrying makeshift weapons. “Kill him, brother,” one outspoke member of the gang hollered. “The town is ours. No more oil or capitalism! It’s all ours.” The kids around him shouted.

“What’s it going to be?” Enrique shouted at Joey.

“An old west shootout,” Joey said and shifted his gun belt. “The good citizen protecting his town against the evil marauders…”

Over-confident, a killer to the bone, Enrique grabbed at the ivory handle of the long-barreled .44 mag, but the gun was heavy, unbalanced and awkward for a fast-draw competition.

Joey knelt, yanked the .357 mag and aimed. For the second time in a day, he could end a man’s life. He had no choice as Enrique gained control of his weapon and attempted to aim. Bullets flew and Enrique’s gun shattered. The man’s face sliced by metal fragments caused him to dodge. His gun hand also severely wounded he screamed and fell in the dirt.

Members of his clan ran to Enrique’s side. Surrounded, Joey spun and fired into the air, he attempted to escape up a building’s fire latter. Alarmist uncertain of what to do milled in the alley like rats wondering where to find their next meal.

Joey knew they would be coming and ran to the apex of the building searching for options. The setting sun glared in his strained eyes as he looked west toward the highway and spotted a caravan of farm equipment heading his way. He looked north and saw a pack of motorcycles blasting into town. From the south slat bed trucks came carrying Hispanic workers packed in the beds with shovels and bats as weapons. From the south came emergency vehicles, fire trucks, loaded down with firemen, EMTs in ambulances, sheriff’s vehicles from the county, they all came. Oil field workers filled buses. They all came.

Only a handful of shots were fired before the alarmists, the illegals, drug addicts and homeless were rounded up. All were loaded and shipped to San Francisco. In a day the streets were cleared and calm returned. In a week, the bros returned to work, Mabel’s reopened, and Martha returned as Mayor. The slimy one was asked to leave. Folks came to town to open shops. Street lights glowed, house plants blossomed in pots outside stores, and gas stoves cooked the best burritos around.

Another week passed and a fossil fuel powered festival energized weekend activities with mariachis and colorful vendors selling fossil fuel fired ceramic pots. A vintage car show lined the street and a long chopper glistening with chrome and metalflake paint rumbled through the center of Pina pipes blaring. Kids ran to the curb screamed with joy and started clapping…

Joey woke up early. He had to blast to work, a new job. The sky shown a brilliant blue with sparce clouds over the vast Wyoming plains. He was new to the area after riding his Sportster out from California and finding an apartment. He immediately faced a daunting issue, though. Winter loomed and motorcycles didn’t fit. He needed to find a garage and a used 4-wheel drive pickup truck. He also needed a dojo and there weren’t any in the small town of Pina.

The growing berg was split by a highway and the founding fathers of the community wisely put the town on one side of the highway and the industrial area and growing oil fields on the other. Joey showered, trimmed his tightly cut Vandyke facial hair, dressed for work and rode a couple of blocks to Mable’s Diner for breakfast. He passed fresh new franchise joints being built like plastic toy boxes and an old brick building being restored. The Pina was clean, vibrant and growing.

Click here to read this heart warming global healing adventure, only on Bikernet.com

Hey,

I try to help people find their way during stressful times. We have a ton of shit flying at us constantly, and I mean that, it’s shit. It’s wasteful garbage. I specifically don’t like the impact on kids.

Wait a minute, I wanted to make a couple of simple points, not rant. First, sometimes we need to take our minds out of gear for a fresh perspective. If you study meditation, it will make a major difference in your life and even assist with healing.

The second point includes one of my meditations that I can do anywhere at any time. It sets me free and keeps me on the right path. My meditation includes three sections. Promises I make to everyone, the definition of suffering and the path to end all suffering. Here’s just the final path:

The right contemplation
The right concentration

The right thoughts
The right intentions

The right plans
The right practices

The right actions
The right outcomes

And I add “forever” at the end to cement the notions. It’s an exercise for your mind and your integrity. It’s like lifting weights for the brain. The more you do it, the stronger you become.

Let’s hit the news:

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

FICTION STORY OF THE WEEK—

Here’s something I wrote. I’m working with a producer in Hollywood and she said the industry is in turmoil. I said I would send her a story that will fry Hollywood on a gas powered stove. Hang On…

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

–Bandit

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM ANNUAL MAGAZINE—

When you purchase an ad in our Official Sturgis Magazine you reach a large swath of the 14.7 million people visiting the state of South Dakota this year. In May we’ll begin distributing 20,000 plus free copies to 100s of locations across the region and beyond. You’ll receive terrific exposure not only during the rally but all year long.

New Magazine Format for 2024

Our magazine is being designed to be the ultimate go-to guide for all your local needs – from top dining spots, riding destinations to must-see attractions. We will entertain with stories of Sturgis History from national contributors including Michael Lichter, from museum curators such as Dr. Randy Hayward, and our own colorful Sturgis Museum History from Keith R. Ball.

Make your company apart of the full-color annual magazine package.

We’re offering very reasonable ad rates
Full Page – $1,900
1/2 Page – $1,100
1/4 page – $ 750
1/8 page – $ 600

Contact us at 605-347-2001
magazine@sturgismuseum.com or donna@sturgismuseum.com
for more information

999 Main St,
Sturgis,SD 57785
(605) 347-2001
magazine@sturgismuseum.com

THE WEEK’S KICK-OFF QUOTE—

” Know what you stand for, who you stand with, and what you stand against!” ~ Travis Haley, Founder – Haley Strategic

 haleystrategic.com
Haley Strategic Partners
16655 N 90th St Ste 100, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 351-8066″

MRF REPORT—

Representatives Visit Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Test Center

Last week, Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) Vice President Jay Jackson and D.C. Lobbyist Rocky Fox visited the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) at its crash test center 100 miles outside Washington, D.C. in Ruckersville, Virginia. The IIHS is an independent, nonprofit scientific and educational organization dedicated to reducing deaths, injuries, and property damage from motor vehicle crashes through research and evaluation and by educating consumers, policymakers, and safety professionals.

The meeting was a combined effort by both parties to find common ground on policies that can help achieve mutual success. First and foremost, we appreciate the IIHS goal of reducing deaths among motorcyclists. We should all be able to agree that the all-time high of over 6,000 deaths in 2021 is an unacceptable number.

The timing of our visit was fortuitous as today the IIHS announced a new rating program aimed at partial driving automation systems. As the report states, “Vehicles with partial automation are not self-driving — though automakers sometimes use names that imply their systems are.” Of the fourteen (14) systems tested, only one earned an “acceptable” rating. Two (2) systems were rated “marginal,” while the remaining eleven (11) were rated “poor.”

To see the models tested and how they rated refer at the end of this article

The underlying message of the report from IIHS is that “Partial driving automation is a convenience feature that is meant to make long drives easier. There is no evidence that it makes driving safer, and, in fact, it can create new risks by making it easier for the driver’s attention to wander. For this reason, it is essential that all partial driving automation systems incorporate robust safeguards.” We at the MRF wholeheartedly agree with this statement and thank the IIHS for taking the lead in evaluating this recent technology.

The IIHS has also begun assessing front crash prevention technology in cars and trucks as they relate to motorcycles. Previously the IIHS only evaluated this technology in automobile vs. automobile situations. IIHS has now branched out to assess how this driver assistance technology recognizes and reacts to motorcycles. We are excited to see what their report reveals.

All too often, after a crash between an automobile and a motorcycle, the driver will admit that they “did not see the motorcycle.” Any technology that aids drivers in seeing bikers is welcome. Additionally, knowing which makes and models of vehicles can and cannot see motorcycles will be crucial information for motorcyclists on the road. The MRF anticipates both the IIHS report and their vehicle ratings on this issue.

While discussions were within the office, the IIHS did invite the MRF representatives to see a crash test conducted. For their viewing pleasure, a 2023 Chevy Tahoe was slammed into a brick wall at 40 MPH. This crash allowed researchers to study the effects on the occupants of the Tahoe and the performance of the Tahoe’s safety features during an impact.

The crash test was a great reminder of how even relatively low-speed crashes can have devastating ramifications for those involved. We thank the IIHS for the invitation to meet and look forward to a continuing dialogue on issues that matter to both organizations.

–MRF

AMA PAST PRESIDENT ED YOUNGBLOOD– Passes Away at 80

Youngblood spearheaded the AMA’s efforts from 1981 to 1999

The American Motorcyclist Association is saddened to hear about the passing of former AMA President Ed Youngblood on March 10, 2024, and offers condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. Youngblood was 80 years old.

Born on Sept. 28, 1943, in Muskogee, Okla., Youngblood bought his first bike — a 165cc Harley-Davidson — at the age of 14. After graduating from college with a master’s degree, he went to work with AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famers Chuck and Sharon Clayton as an editor of Cycle News East.

In 1970, Youngblood joined the AMA staff as managing editor of AMA News, which later was replaced by American Motorcyclist. In 1978, he was put in charge of the AMA’s government relations department.

In 1981, Youngblood was appointed AMA executive director. He led the organization until 1999. During his tenure, Youngblood focused on improving member communication, growing the AMA’s government relations efforts, and building stronger ties to the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme. For 25 years Youngblood was a delegate to the FIM, and he eventually became the deputy president, which was the second-highest rank in the organization.

Youngblood also helped establish the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.

He was instrumental in forming the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation in the early 1980s to raise funds for the Hall of Fame Museum. The American Motorcycle Heritage Museum was opened in 1990 within the AMA’s old headquarters in Westerville, Ohio.

During Youngblood’s tenure the AMA’s headquarters was relocated to Pickerington, Ohio — which remains the AMA’s home today.

The American Motorcycle Heritage Museum followed the AMA to Pickerington, assuming a new name: The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum.

Youngblood resigned from the AMA to focus on his interests in history and writing in 1999 and was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame later that year.

About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the orld’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year.

Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing.

American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.

TEXAS WEATHER REPORT— I’m a photographer, so I take pictures for myself, to document it, and to share my exploits with my Bikernet brothers and sisters.

I recently acquired FXRP fairing, but quick, the weather. It not only froze in Houston again, but was a holiday for some. With the roads having some icing issues I decided to do a YouTube search for Fiberglass Motorcycle Fairing Repairs and came upon an Australian dude who introduced me to Plastex, an American made product.

Simple to use and fast acting and sand-able too. It’s just a powder and an activating agent, that you do not want to use in an enclosed space! Then I watched another individual in the States using the JB Weld for plastic, also sand-able. I didn’t watch his entire video as I’ve repaired a couple of tanks with JB Weld, no electricity needed welder, so I’m familiar with the mixing. Both products come in different colors as well.

I was lucky in the way my fairing was damaged, the main crack where the inside of the fairing meets the thicker outer shell and a smaller crack not too far away.

After figuring out how to pull the main crack tight, I used the JB to secure the corner after a bit of curing I turned my attention to the front side of the main break. The Plastex needs a bit of a groove to properly adhere, like an actual weld. After completing that task, I loaded up the area with the powder and tapped it in, figuring how to get that area level was interesting. Then I began to start dripping the activator on the powder, did I mention the garage door was closed–oh my gosh that stuff was strong!

Plastex takes no time to harden for handling, yet I waited a while before carefully turning it over to add some additional strength to the back side with the JB. I also added the rebar or sheet rock tape. I learned from the gentleman in Australia, although I didn’t do it with the top side repair.

While I haven’t started sanding yet, on its first journey it held together. There is still an inner brace missing from that side that I want to replace, but I need a piece of ¼-inch metal and a video on what product to use to secure it? Harley put them there for a reason and whatever they used to secure it is hard as a rock! I’ve noticed on the internet most RP fairing are damaged on the right side.

The “ONLY” possible issue I see is the Plastex states not to let it come in contact with other products. The small hole I drilled in the second smaller crack and filled with the powder, I later added JB to the back side. So, it’s possible, in a Back To The Future sorta way, that when I reach 102.634 miles per hour these two products will have a chemical chain reaction, leaving a hole the size of Rhode Island?

Hang on!

–RFR

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM REPORT—

Today the president of the Black Hills Antique Motorcycle Association stopped by to thank us for straightening out an old problem with the Museum. He offered us bikes and would like to join the board.

We hooked up with the new Mayor of Sturgis and plan to host Angela on a tour of the facility to discuss expansion and who on the city council will become a board member for the future.

We are moving and enhancing exhibits. We’ve edited and expanded the historic rally timeline and we are working with Quick Signs in Spearfish to blow up this font of information and position it on a 5 by 8 board against one of the entrance walls.

We are reworking the Sturgis Museum Website and building the annual magazine with more pages, more content and more resources.

Hang on.

–Bandit

VINTAGE RIDES TAKES YOU TO THE MOTHERLAND OF MEDITATION—

Nepal & Bhutan in the Heart of the Himalayas

A road trip through this mythical world is an experience well beyond your ordinary motorcycle tour. This Himalayan adventure awakens the senses and invigorates the soul; it is a voyage of discovery, not just of these legendary lands but of oneself.

MAKE IT TO LEGISLATIVE DAY WITH ABATE of Illinois— Statehouse Update

Want to make your voice heard? Join Us for Legislative Day – April 17th

Representative Daniel Didech Gets another Sponsor for his Mandatory Helmet Bill for Illinois Motorcyclists – Witness Slips Needed AGAIN!

State Representative Daniel Didech added Representative Margaret Croke to his legislation (HB5620) to force motorcyclists in Illinois to wear DOT rated helmets. It is still in the House Transportation Vehicle Safety Committee. The Representative from Buffalo Grove wants to take away your fundamental right to choose what gear to wear when riding.

We need to file Witness Slips Again to continue Opposing this Bill

1) Click this Link – Witness Slip

2) Fill it out manually, do not use autofill.

3) Make sure to put ABATE of Illinois – Chapter name under Firm & Self under Representation

4) Mark “Original Bill:, OPPONENT” then “Record of Appearance Only”

5) Share this link with your friends – abate-il.org/helmet

6) Call Representative Didech at 217-782-0499 & ask him to withdraw his bill.

7) Call Representative Croke at 217-782-8062 & ask her to remove her name as a sponsor of the mandatory helmet bill.

Remember to be firm yet polite with the legislative staff that answers the phone. They deal with a lot of rude folks, and we don’t need to add to that list. ABATE is known for lighting up phones and being nice about it, so let’s keep that going.

It’s been a long time since ABATE has had a good helmet fight – Mike ingram, ABATE of Illinois Member.

Always See the latest at
abate-il.org/bills

Questions? email: Legislative@abate-il.org

THE INTERNATIONAL HARLEY-DAVIDSON MODEL REPORT—

What motorcycle do you like that everyone seems to hate?

Harley-Davidson X440 – it’s not ugly nor poor. It is actually a meticulously designed motorcycle and as for its low price–Harley-Davidson was always meant to be a motorcycle for the working class– not for some billionaire to showcase in his 50 acre garage.

Launched on July 3, 2023, the Harley-Davidson Motor Co does not offer the X440 for sale in the USA.

–Wayfarer
International Editor
Bikernet.com™

THE LATEST ACTION WEAPON FROM RMJ—

The forged Raven Bearded Ax is a fully custom made, Nordic inspired bearded ax.

Forged from super tough 80CRV2 steel, it is a true working ax, not just a collectors’ item as it appears. The neck features a Viking knotwork design forged into the steel and the handle scales are linen Micarta textured with an interlocking Celtic pattern.

It comes with a custom Chattanooga Leather Works scabbard and leather Baldric ring for belt or MOLLE carry. The Raven also includes a solid wood box with laser engraved touches, an a leather patch. The Raven is designed, forged, and finished by our inhouse blacksmith Reid Carmack.

Specifications:
Head Length: 4. in
Overall Length: 14 in
Handle Length: 9.5 in
Forward Cutting Edge Length: 3.25 in
Steel Thickness: .375 in
Weight: 1 pound 3 ounces (without sheath)
Weight: 1 pound 5 ounces (with sheath)
Blade Material: 80CRV2 Carbon Steel
Steel Finish: Fire scale
Handle Material: Micarta

FAIRPLEX Special Ticket Offer—

The California Overland Adventure & Power Sports Show – March 16 – 17, 2024, at the Fairplex, Pomona

As a partner and exhibitor at this exciting event, we have secured Up To 400 Free Tickets and are happy to pass this great offer to you, your family, friends, and colleagues. We invite you to attend SoCal’s ultimate outdoor lifestyle event featuring products and brands in Overlanding, RVs, ATVs, Motorcycle Brands, Autos, E-bikes, Camping, Hiking, and more.

Early attendees to the show will receive Logoed Back Pack, a full year free subscription to OVR Magazine, and other items, and those early attendees will have a chance to win some great products.

Please visit our booth during the show. We look forward to seeing you!

Get Your Free Tickets Here While They Last!

INSPIRATION FROM THE BIKERNET THOUGHT TEMPLE– Fear

False Evidence Appearing Real

“I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear.” –Rosa Parks

Fear is a formidable adversary, disrupting our peace and hindering our ability to perform at our best. When anxiety consumes us, we are unable to fully engage with the present moment, and the fear we harbor today often carries over into tomorrow, perpetuating a cycle of dread.

It steals our sleep, robs us of joy, and leaves us drained and unable to move forward. Dwelling on our problems only serves to entrench us further in fear, preventing us from accessing the solutions we seek.

Today’s Affirmation: Today, I choose to reject fear’s grip on my life. I affirm that I am guided by a Higher Power and shielded from harm. I release the burdens of yesterday, refusing to dwell on past fears. Instead, I direct my energy towards finding peace, joy, and trust within myself, confident that the solutions to my challenges lie within me.

I embrace a Higher Consciousness, grateful for the lessons I have learned and the growth they have brought. With each challenge I face, I stand firm in my inner confidence, knowing that I am supported and equipped to overcome. I elevate my mindset with gratitude and benevolence.

And So It Is!

–Namaste

The lessons of Life are repeated until they are learned

“Always do what you are afraid to do.” –Ralph Waldo Emerson

–Yale

“See, it’s all about the mind. And you can change your mind by working out…”  –Bandit

[page break]

HARLEY-DAVIDSON FACTORY RIDER KYLE WYMAN SNAGS DOUBLE DAYTONA VICTORIES TO OPEN 2024 KING OF THE BAGGERS RACE SEASON-–

Cory West Tops All-Harley Podium in Saturday’s Super Hooligan Race

Harley-Davidson Factory Racing rider Kyle Wyman scored a Daytona double by winning the first two MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers races of the 2024 season at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Harley-Davidson Factory Racing rider James Rispoli finished in third place in both races. Wyman and Rispoli were aboard the team’s new race-prepared 2024 Road Glide motorcycles.

Team Saddlemen rider Cory West rode a race-prepared Harley-Davidson® Pan America 1250 Special motorcycle to victory and topped an all-Harley podium in the Mission Super Hooligan race on Saturday. Team Saddlemen rider Jake Lewis finished second, and Gator Harley/KWR rider Cody Wyman was third completing the sweep. West also finished in third place in the Super Hooligan race on Friday and leads the series points after two of 10 scheduled rounds.

The first King of the Baggers race on Friday saw a thundering pack of 17 bagger race motorcycles topping 185 mph on the high-banked oval portion of the 3.52-mile Daytona International Speedway road course. Wyman and Rispoli were part of a four-bike group that battled for the lead for the entire race and started the last of six laps separated by less than one second. Wyman had been quick through the backstraight chicane all race and on the last lap got a strong drive out of the final corner to pass Factory Indian rider Troy Herfoss for the lead heading onto the last section of the oval.

Wyman had enough momentum to hold off Herfoss and Rispoli across the finish line with a 0.018 second advantage over Herfoss and 0.137 second over Rispoli. Defending King of the Baggers series champion Hayden Gillim finished fourth on the RevZilla/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson Road Glide, 0.837 seconds behind Wyman.

“On that last lap we were just about parked, but I refused to pass to lead the race until the moment it counted,” said Wyman. “I saw a window coming out of the chicane and was just able to hold them off for the win.”

The second King of the Baggers race on Saturday saw Wyman, Rispoli, Herfoss, Gillim, and Factory Indian rider Tyler O’Hara break away from the pack early in the race and swap positions on each lap. On the final lap, Herfoss gapped Wyman on the back stretch but braked late and over-shot the entry to the chicane, giving Wyman an opportunity to pounce.

Wyman again got a strong drive onto the last section of the high-bank oval and was able to out-run Herfoss to the finish by 0.137 seconds. Rispoli finished 1.518 seconds back in third place.

“I was in survival mode on the last lap,” said Wyman. “I lost my quick-shifter and I was going to be happy to finish second, but Herfoss gave me a chance and we made it work. Hats off to my entire Harley-Davidson crew for all their hard work this weekend.”

“What an unreal weekend,” said Rispoli. “There was so much nervousness before the races. So, it was a massive relief to get two podiums in my first weekend with the Factory Harley-Davidson team. I am so stoked for the entire team, and I know we will be a force for the future rounds.”

After 2 of 18 rounds in the 2024 MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers series Kyle Wyman leads with 50 points. Herfoss is second with 40 points, followed by Rispoli with 32 points and Gillim with 24 points.

Harley-Davidson® Factory Racing returns to action at the Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas, April 12-13 at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas.

The Mission King of the Baggers series features race-prepared American V-Twin touring motorcycles. Harley-Davidson Factory Racing Road Glide motorcycles are powered by modified Screamin’ Eagle Milwaukee-Eight 131 Performance Crate Engines. The team bikes also feature upgraded suspension components, including Screamin’ Eagle/Öhlins Remote Reservoir Rear Shocks, plus competition exhaust, race tires and lightweight bodywork.

Harley-Davidson Factory Racing is sponsored by Mission Foods, Rockford Fosgate, Brembo, Öhlins, Protolabs, SYN3 lubricants, and Screamin’ Eagle Performance Parts and Accessories.

MotoAmerica King of the Baggers Race Results – Daytona International Speedway Race 1

• Kyle Wyman (H-D) Harley-Davidson Factory Racing
• Troy Herfoss (Ind) S&S/Indian Motorcycle
• James Rispoli (H-D) Harley-Davidson Factory Racing
• Hayden Gillim (H-D) RevZilla/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson
• Rocco Landers (H-D) RevZilla/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson
• Kyle Ohnsorg (Ind) RydFast Racing
• Bobby Fong (Ind) SDI/Roland Sands Racing
• Travis Wyman (H-D) Saddleman/Harley-Davidson
• Max Flinders (Ind) Mad Monkey Motorsports
• Tyler O’Hara (Ind) S&S/Indian Motorcycle

MotoAmerica King of the Baggers Race Results – Daytona International Speedway Race 2

• Kyle Wyman (H-D) Harley-Davidson Factory Racing
• Troy Herfoss (Ind) S&S/Indian Motorcycle
• James Rispoli (H-D) Harley-Davidson Factory Racing
• Tyler O’Hara (Ind) S&S/Indian Motorcycle
• Hayden Gillim (H-D) RevZilla/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson
• Kyle Ohnsorg (Ind) RydFast Racing
• Jake Lewis (H-D) Saddleman/Harley-Davidson
• Cory West (H-D) Saddleman/Harley-Davidson
• Travis Wyman (H-D) Saddleman/Harley-Davidson
• Rocco Landers (H-D) RevZilla/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson
• Max Flinders (Ind) Mad Monkey Motorsports
• Jesse Janisch (H-D) Suburban Motors H-D/Slyfox/Trask Performance
• Zachary Schumacher (H-D) Nowaskey Extreme Performance
• Gunnar Ouellette (H-D) Trask Performance
• Ruben Xaus (H-D) Feuling Parts

Learn more at www.harley-davidson.com.

BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–Most Amazing Bagger

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

I love this style of bike would like to know more information on the kit that it has or how I can get one?

–Dustin Guilliams
Packers3028@gmail.com
El Paso , TX

It was a build using a kit by Cyclevisions, but it seems that kit has nearly dried up and the best place to look would be e-Bay. There’s a new kid on the block, Advanblack, making some really cool stuff turning bikes into sport tourers. I’d check them out as well as Cyclevisions just to see what’s available.

The market is saturated with a plethora of options currently.

–Johnny Humble
The White Family

WATCH FOR MOTORCYCLES STICKERS—from Hupy and Abraham, S.C.

Get yourself a free “Watch for Motorcycles” bumper sticker! https://www.hupy.com/

Order one now.

RECENT BIKERNET FEATURE BIKE WINS IN DAYTONA—

This is Chris Bienkiewicz from Game Over Cycles – a custom bike company from Poland.

I am pleased to inform you that our latest custom motorcycle won 4 trophies, including 2 Best of Show awards, at 2 competitions organized this week at the Daytona Bike week 2024, one of the biggest bike rallies in the world.

The winning motorcycle is a custom bike inspired by James Hetfield of Metallica and his 1936 Auburn Speedster “Slow Burn”.

And video presenting the project can be watched here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALO5oQZ_8EM

–Chris Bienkiewicz
Tel: +48 882 061 648
E-mail: gocpress@gameovercycles.com

ANOTHER New Bikernet Reader Comment!–

Monster Twin Cam Race Engines from JIMS–click here to read

Will the 131 JIMS engine fit in a 2014 Street Glide and if so, how much?

— Kenny Bills
Andrews, TX

Yes, part number for this application is 1708-3530
Retail Cost $8,655.40
Automatic Comp releases ADD $151.80

-Monty
JIMS Machine

DICEY DICE NEWS–

Very special & totally limited edition 20 years of DicE featuring the big legend himself, Jason Momoa on the cover.

20 YEARS YOUNG!!

This is our latest and GREATEST Issue to date it’s our 20th year anniversary issue. If that wasn’t special enough, we decided to make the mighty COLLECTORS EDITION!

The cover features our good mate, Jason Momoa and was shot by the legend, Steven Townsend.

*Limited Edition Cover – Only 100 made*

MRF ROADSHOW STOPS– Freedom of Road Riders Missouri

On Saturday, March 9th, MRF Director of Membership Eric Ross and MRF A&E Board Assistant Ron Braaksma attended a Freedom of Road Riders (FORR) conference in Jefferson City, Missouri.

Eric Ross was a guest speaker, discussing MRF accomplishments in 2023 and covering the MRF Legislative Agenda for 2024. Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) bans, Right to Repair issues and Fuel Choice were among the topics that led to engaging conversations.

In addition to a panel discussion group session hosted by FORR members, there were presentations by Sheriff Chris Heitman and Missouri State Senator Travis Fitzwater. Eric Ross also spoke on the merits of using Policy Engage and how this powerful tool can help states produce Calls-to-Action very quickly.

REPORT FROM RIDE TEXAS–

For 26 years, Your essential guide for where to ride and what to do in Lone Star state and beyond

Ride Texas is now available free at these locations. Supplies are limited.

* Kerrville CVB
* Jefferson Convention and Visitors Bureau
* Visit Mckinney
* Texas Travel Information Center – RGV
* Texas Travel Information Center – Texarkana
* Texas Travel Information Center – Langtry
* Texas Travel Information Center – Austin
* Texas Travel Information Center – Wichita Falls
* Texas Travel Information Center -Orange
* Texas Travel Information Center – Waskom
* Texas Travel Information Center – Laredo
* Texas Travel Information Center – Anthony
* Texas Travel Information Center – Amarillo
* Texas Travel Information Center – Grand Prairie
* Texas Travel Information Center – Denison
* Palestein Visitors Center
* Stephenville Visitors Bureau
* Bandera CVB
* Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop – Leakey
* Riders Biker Supply – Lewisville
* Antelope Creek Leather – Borger
* Classic Rock Coffee & Kitchen- Navasota
* Flying L Ranch Resort – Bandera
* Hotel Texan – Seagraves
* Rusk KOA Holiday – Rusk
* The Shop – Waxhachie
* Horny Toad Harley-Davidson Temple
* Haas Moto Museum – Dallas
* Moto Liberty – Addison
* Inn of the Hills – Kerrville
* Leakey Inn – Leakey
* Texas Vintage Motorcycle Museum – Johnson City
* Texas Sidecars Company – Donie
* Hill Country Motorheads Museum -Burnet

RIDE TEXAS is no longer sold on newsstands!

RIDE TEXAS is now available by subscription only.

Ready 2 Ride,
Be Safe Out There!

–Reyn
Reynolds Mansson
Publisher

SONS OF SPEED ROCKS DAYTONA—

The weather played a race roll, but all went well blasting around the New Syrma banked track and attracted more racers and spectators than ever before. Billy Lane, the show promoter and a major talent on the track inspired onlookers as far away as Europe and Sturgis, South Dakota.

THE CHEVRON DEFERENCE–Why Does It Matter

Earlier this year, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a case that could upend the current regulatory framework in Washington, D.C. The current case is questioning a 40-year-old precedent that impacts all three branches of the federal government.

A 1984 court case involving Chevron and the National Resources Defense Council created a legal principle known as Chevron deference. Chevron deference compels federal courts to defer to a federal agency’s interpretation of an ambiguous or unclear statute that Congress delegated to the agency to administer. In other words, they give executive agencies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) wide latitude to shape policy on issues that Congress has not explicitly mandated, and the court system is limited in stopping them.

Chevron deference has been used in more than 19,000 cases – Center for American Progress

Why does this matter to bikers? In recent years we have observed officials at the EPA and NHTSA use the regulatory process to achieve policy goals that impact us. One obvious case is the use of rulemaking to make the internal combustion engine (ICE) extinct.

The EPA, through emission standards, and NHTSA, through fuel efficiency benchmarks, have tried to shape transportation policy that favors electric vehicles over those powered by fossil fuels. In this case, the House of Representatives has attempted to push back on this overreach by passing legislation to block the proposed rules. However, the immense and growing power of unelected bureaucrats remains a threat.

The system of checks and balances that the Founding Fathers established must be preserved. Limiting which court cases can be heard and deferring to the decisions of the Executive Branch allows the agency to be the ultimate decision maker. This policy could dramatically alter the action away from the original intent and circumvent congressional control.

The Motorcycle Riders Foundation will monitor this case and await the Supreme Court ruling. This decision could have a lasting impact on how we fight for our priorities as motorcyclists.

Ride Safe and Ride Free

–MRF
Join the Motorcycle Riders Foundation

RUMBLE ON ANNOUNCED— Rebranding of its Proprietary Cash Offer Program and Extends its Use into RideNow Powersports Dealerships

RumbleOn (NASDAQ: RMBL), today announced a branding change for the company’s unique and proprietary cash offer program for acquiring pre-owned motorcycles, now known as the RideNow Cash Offer. The use of the cash offer system will be expanded into the company’s 54 powersports dealers, which RumbleOn refers to as its RideNow Powersports dealers.

“We are moving forward, singularly focused on the RideNow brand for our powersports business,” said RumbleOn CEO Mike Kennedy. “This means consumers can easily understand that they are working with a high quality, trusted partner when they enter any one of our 54 RideNow dealerships.”

RideNow Powersports dealerships primarily serve markets in the Sun Belt states and offer over 50 OEM brands. Parent company, RumbleOn, initially acquired two large dealership groups, after which it made smaller acquisitions, ultimately becoming the largest powersports retailer in the United States.

While still operating as independent businesses, each dealership will be part of RideNow Powersports.

RumbleOn is a leader in pre-owned motorcycle sales, largely with the assistance of a proprietary online tool, now known as the RideNow Cash Offer, allowing consumers to quickly and easily receive an offer, then sell their motorcycle into the RideNow Powersports network of dealers.

“When we incorporate the RideNow Cash Offer into our RideNow dealerships, we’re raising the standard for convenience and customer service in the powersports industry,” said Cam Tkach, RideNow’s National Director of Preowned. “The trusted cash offer process remains the same, whether online or in-store. We’re now engaging every one of our locations to make it the best possible experience for our customers.”

The rebranding of materials will begin immediately and continue until the process is completed with the company’s physical and online presence. Dealerships will continue to have individual names but will be part of the RideNow Powersports brand.

OPERATION GRATITUDE GROWS-– We are excited to announce that we are approaching a significant milestone, the 4 millionth Care Package! However, we need your help to make this event a success.

As a valued supporter of Operation Gratitude, your contribution can help us reach this milestone and make a significant impact on the lives of our service members. A donation of $25 or more will assist us in reaching our goal of $25,000, which is the cost of assembling and shipping 1,000 Care Packages.

For every $25 donated, a personalized postcard will be sent on your behalf, expressing your gratitude towards our nation’s heroes.

Your support will help us show appreciation to the brave men and women who serve and sacrifice for our country and communities. Thousands of Americans nationwide are coming together to be a part of this special moment in Operation Gratitude’s history. Will you join us?

Please click on the link below to secure your special Care Package and join us in celebrating this milestone:

Thank you for your support, and for making a difference in the lives of those who serve.

With Gratitude,
–Meg Barron,
Executive Director
Operation Gratitude

SERIOUS, New Bikernet Reader Comment!—

A Biker Is A Biker, A Brother, A Friend, a Road Story–click here to read

I loved the entire read. Oh my gosh, just think if this guy had not put the burr under your butt, no one would have ever been able to read and see the awesome response. Hey, let us give him this… He Tried.

During my read, I could not help but notice how well the picture you painted of yourself was so similar to my own. One big exception, I never went there and made a life of it.

Funny how people can be so alike yet our life’s paths and experiences define our differences. I mean, I was different, stubborn, wild, and not feeling free was the worst thing ever. I hated to feel confined and restricted and will for the rest of my life.

I don’t do drugs, don’t smoke, and don’t have any tattoos. Nor have I ever wanted to do these things. Yet, I yearn for days hanging out, if only for a short time, with the Hell’s Angels.

I will never forget sneaking out of our family lake cabins in McCall, Idaho in the early ‘70s. My cousin, whose parents were “Bikers”, and I left for North Beach on I believe the weekend of the 4th of July, and spent all night with some of the Hells Angels.

We were too young for them I guess, because all they wanted to do was protect us. We were our wild and free selves, and they were like nope. But we sat around the big beach fires and ran into the lake to swim. The guys seemed to like that..haha.

We hitchhiked there, but early morning hours we were sent back in a beautiful Cobra. I think his name was Rod from Boise, but who knows.

I have many times been criticized for my wild streak and my family fears for me because I love adventure and don’t mind going it alone, because I can stop whenever I want, stay wherever I want and talk to whoever I want without restrictions.

So many of us free-spirits are out there. Never think for a minute because people like me never took the first step to ride a motorcycle, so we are not freedom riders.

Every time I watch a Biker pass me, I feel that burn reminding me of who I really am.
Let Freedom Ring wherever you go however you go??

— Heidi Maule
Orangevale, CA

So well put. –Bandit

[page break]

UPDATES ADVANCE ON LAST YEAR’S NEBRASKA MOTORCYCLE HELMET LAW–

Two months after certain motorcyclists could take advantage of a new law and begin to ride helmetless on Nebraska highways, lawmakers advanced revisions Tuesday for that law.

State Sen. Ben Hansen of Blair, who successfully led the 2023 measure, brought Legislative Bill 1004 this session to address “all concerns” with last year’s changes. The updates come after working with the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, law enforcement, experienced motorcyclists and other communities, Hansen said.

2023 law fallbacks
Beginning Jan. 1, motorcyclists 21 or older were allowed to ride helmetless after completing the state’s basic motorcycle education course. The 14-hour minimum course consists of at least four hours in the classroom and at least 10 hours riding motorcycles.

Hansen’s 2023 bill required motorcyclists to complete the entire course, no matter their experience. He told the Nebraska Examiner this includes practice driving around traffic cones.

“An individual who’s been riding for 30 years must spend 10 hours learning how to ride a bike,” Hansen said during floor debate.

The requirement has overwhelmed safety courses with skilled riders, Hansen explained, instead of those who actually need to learn the basics.

Also under the law, the traffic infraction fine for riding without a helmet increased from $50 to $250 for each violation, enforced only after a citation or charge for a different violation.

2024 proposed changes
Under LB 1004, Nebraska motorcyclists with a Class M license before May 1 can complete the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s three-hour Basic eCourse to ride helmetless. Riders who receive their Class M license after May 1 would need to complete the 14-hour basic safety course to ride helmetless.

Nonresidents can currently ride helmetless if they complete an equivalent or “substantially similar” motorcycle course approved by their state and show proof upon request. However, this has been difficult for law enforcement.

“We found that there was no way of tracking this or confirming if their certification is valid,” Hansen said. “The statute is simply unenforceable.”

LB 1004 would allow out-of-state motorcyclists with a non-Nebraska motorcycle license to ride helmetless, regardless of whether they have completed a safety course.

Passengers who are older than 21 may ride helmetless if the motorcyclist is permitted to do so. Both operators and passengers must have some form of eye protection, such as goggles, eyeglasses or a windshield.

LB 1004 advanced 34-3, facing opposition from three Transportation and Telecommunications Committee members who also opposed advancing the bill to the full Legislature.

‘It’s your choice’
State Sen. Bruce Bostelman of Brainard opposed LB 1004. He said he felt Hansen’s 2023 bill came out of committee too quickly and needed work, but he said the current law should remain unchanged.

State Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard said after nearly three decades of trying to repeal the helmet law, it’s important to give riders a choice.

“We’re not restricting them,” Erdman said. “We don’t make them ride without a helmet — it’s your choice.”

Lawmakers voted 32-2 to adopt a Hansen amendment to have LB 1004 take effect as soon as it is passed and signed into law. The bill faces at least two more rounds of debate.

— ZACH WENDLING
Nebraska Examiner

BREAKING ICE NEWS–Connecticut Legislature Shelves Gas-Powered Vehicle Ban

In a win for the automotive community, the Connecticut legislature has shelved plans to adopt California’s ban on the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035. This decision comes amid concerns about the feasibility of such a drastic transition, particularly regarding the readiness of the state’s electric grid and charging infrastructure.

In late 2023, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont withdrew a SAN-opposed regulation requiring the state to adopt California’s strict motor-vehicle emissions laws and outlaw the sale of new gas- and diesel-powered cars beginning in 2035.

–SEMA

RIDING DAPPER FOR A CAUSE

The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride unites classic and vintage styled motorcycle riders from all over the world to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health.

The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride was founded in Sydney, Australia, by Mark Hawwa. It was inspired by a photo of TV Show Mad Men’s Don Draper astride a classic bike and wearing his finest suit. Mark decided a themed ride would be a great way of connecting niche motorcycle enthusiasts and communities while raising funds to support the men in our lives.

GRAND OL OPRY DEBUT–Performed Hits “Elvira” And “Bobbie Sue”

GRAMMY Award-winning and Country Music Hall of Fame members The Oak Ridge Boys brought their ‘American Made: Farewell Tour’ to TBN’s Huckabee over the weekend, performing “Elvira” and “Bobbie Sue.”

This appearance was the group’s first national television performance with new member Ben James. The group then went to the Grand Ole Opry for Ben’s official debut as an Oak Ridge Boy.

“It has been a dream come true becoming an Oak Ridge Boy,” shares Ben James. “I grew up with their music, and performing nightly with them is a “pinch me” moment with every song. This weekend was extra special as we made our way to the Grand Ole Opry for the first time together. I love the Oaks, and I love and admire Joe Bonsall!”

“Although I was not able to sing with the Boys on the Grand Ole Opry Saturday, I assure you that I was there in spirit as young Ben James sang in my spot,” shares Joe Bonsall. “My love to all my Opry family and my fervent appreciation to Ben for the incredible job he is doing!!”

The Oak Ridge Boys continue to tour the country on their American Made: Farewell Tour with nearly twenty states confirmed and more to be added soon. The Boys were also excited to launch their updated website this weekend!

William Lee Golden (1965) and Duane Allen (1966) joined the group in the late sixties, followed by Richard Sterban in 1972 and Joe Bonsall in 1973. James joined in January 2024 following Bonsall’s retirement.

Upcoming Oak Ridge Boys Tour Dates Include:
MAR 15 – Foxwoods Resort Casino / Mashantucket, Conn.
MAR 16 – American Music Theatre / Lancaster, Pa.
MAR 17 – American Music Theatre / Lancaster, Pa.
MAR 22 – Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center / Midland, Texas
MAR 23 – Sugar Creek Casino / Hinton, Okla.
APR 04 – Oxford Performing Arts Center / Oxford, Ala.
APR 05 – City of Morganton Municipal Auditorium / Morganton, N.C.
APR 06 – Alabama Theatre / North Myrtle Beach, S.C.
APR 10 – Clay County Agricultural Fair / Green Cove Springs, Fla.
APR 13 – George H. Henderson Jr. Expo Center / Lufkin, Texas
APR 26 – Robinson Grand Performing Arts Center / Clarksburg, W. Va.
APR 27 – The Paramount / Ashland, Ky.
MAY 17 – People Bank Theatre / Marietta, Ohio
MAY 18 – Tinora Performing Arts Center / Defiance, Ohio
MAY 30 – River Spirit Casino Resort – The Cove / Tulsa, Okla.
JUN 07 – Hartville, Kitchen / Hartville, Ohio
JUN 08 – Hartville, Kitchen / Hartville, Ohio
JUN 09 – Murat Theatre Old National Centre / Indianapolis, Ind.
JUN 26 – Blue Gate Performing Arts Center / Shipshewana, Ind.
JUN 27 – Blue Gate Performing Arts Center / Shipshewana, Ind.
JUN 28 – Meramec Music Theatre / Steelville, Mo.
AUG 15 – Harvester Performance Center / Rocky Mount, Va.
AUG 16 – Harvester Performance Center / Rocky Mount, Va.
AUG 17 – Shenandoah Valley Music Festival / Orkney Springs, Va.
AUG 18 – Kentucky State Fair – Texas Roadhouse Main Stage / Louisville, Ky.
AUG 29 – Midwest Old Threshers – Old Threshers Fairgrounds / Mount Pleasant, Iowa
SEP 06 – The Palace Theatre / Greensburg, Pa.
SEP 07 – Weinberg Center For The Arts / Frederick, Md.
SEP 08 – Wayne County Fair / Wooster, Ohio
SEP 12 – Prairie Band Casino & Resort – Great Lakes Ballroom / Mayetta, Kan.
SEP 13 – Grand Casino & Hotel Events Center / Shawnee, Okla.
SEP 15 – Kansas State Fair / Hutchinson, Kan.
SEP 20 – Country Tonite Theater Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

100-WORD FICTION FOR JANUARY 2024–

She’s Gone.

I left Hill City on highway 385 north to Deadwood, I had to see it for myself. The temperature was in the low 30s, a little cold for a ride but it wasn’t respectful to go in a car.

Dark smoke belched from the black mass of rubble, as a small breeze drifted the smokey haze into the pines. A police officer directed traffic while firetrucks and volunteer firemen hosed the area.

Thirty straight rally years did I enjoyed many a beer, burgers and conversations at this place. Now she’s gone.

I hope the Sugar Shack can make it back.

Jeffrey
JJ Spain
www.mikesalasnovels.com

CRITICAL THINKING COMES TO BIKERNET.COM–

In political science Mars is what Earth was before the people on Mars started using gasoline and freon. And Venus is what Earth will become if we don’t stop using gasoline and freon. This is called political science. Not actual science.

Political science is “reality is what I say it is.” Real science is “reality is what reality says it is.”

–J.J. Solari

UPDATE: KANSAS ADVANCES BILL TO PROTECT VEHICLE CHOICE–

Overview: Kansas has introduced SAN-supported bills (H.B. 2783 / S.B. 471) to ensure consumers’ choice of vehicle power plants and fuel by preventing a state agency, county or city from limiting access to internal combustion engines.

The SAN believes that Kansas residents, not the government, should decide what vehicles are best for them and their families. H.B. 2783 passed the House Federal & State Affairs Committee and was quickly approved by the full House—the bill now awaits consideration by the Senate Committee on Federal and State Affairs, along with S.B. 471.

Go to the SEMA web site to right your legislator regarding these bills. You’ll find that Rhode Island, Alaska and Maryland also have introduced similar bills.

–SEMA

THE DOUCHING OF THE AMERICAN COWBOY

I apparently started something on Fuckbook after I channel-surfed the tv and stopped at some championship American rodeo in progress. So, I watched it for a while, and then on Jailbook I mentioned that I noticed that bullriders, and I emphasized “American” bullriders to make the shaming as clear as possible, I noticed that American bullriders were weak, using the word weak, “since they are now wearing bullet-proof helmets and chest cushioning.” Which is the way I put it.

This created something of an agitation, pro and con, something I always go out of my way to avoid lest I get the reputation of being a trouble maker. I apparently rather cavalierly tossed all that aside, however, by, after a while, commenting, “Why would anyone in their right fucking mind want to ride a fucking bull. And if you’re GOING to be that fucking stupid at least be impressively stupid and not wear a fucking suit of bounce-castle body armor for fear of – oh dear – hurting yourself. ‘Hi!!! I want to demonstrate my toughness!

But before I do I shall don this coating of invulnerability in the interests of demonstrating merely the inherent artistry of riding a fucking hysterical freight train lest I get hurt.’ yeah: that’s weak. it’s ALMOST gay.”

Feeling somewhat better after this burst of eloquence and reason I had some Cheez-its.

The resultant comments were either sarcastically in agreement or abusively hostile. I don’t really approve of sarcasm; I consider it ill-mannered. The abusive commenters however were not just ill-mannered they were genuinely hurtful. The major portion of the abuse was the oft-suggested suggestion that if I thought wearing protective gear was weak why don’t I get on a bull and ride it without helmet and vest and prove how tough I am.

I reminded these critics “I am NOT tough, which is why I don’t compete in rodeos AND I’m not stupid: which is why I don’t compete in rodeos.” I then added “Now I am not sure if American cowboys were ever not stupid but I DO know that they actually used to be tough. They didn’t wear gear. Now they wear gear. I can only assume they are not as tough as they used to be. So instead of yelling at me my critics should be yelling at them. If they aim their firearms like they aim their criticisms, this will be good news for the enemy.

Then I had more Cheez-its.

–J.J. Solari

TOURING RIDER OF THE WEEK— Luigi Visentin Ferrara, Italy touring the U.S.A.

–Sam Burns
Rider Reporter
Bikernet.com™

ABATE of Oklahoma LEGISLATIVE REPORT–

At 2:18 pm, HB 3582 by Rep. Pae failed on the House Floor, there were no questions or debate, went straight to vote. 33 Yeas / 62 Nays / 6 Excused.

Rep. Pae made notice that he would like to bring the bill back up reconsideration at a future legislative day. The only day that this bill can be brought back up on the floor for another vote is tomorrow. Otherwise at the moment this bill is dead for the year. New legislation will have to come forward in the future.

Nick from AMA and myself seen no reason for the bill to have failed.

In 2022 there was HB 2667 by Rep. Echols it passed committee and House Floor 70 Yeas / 22 Nays / 8 Excused.

Listed are the Representatives that voted NO on HB 3582, I also went searching and found that many of voted yes in 2020.

Baker (yes 2020) —– Banning —– Boles (yes 2020) —– Burns (yes 2020) —– Caldwell (C) —– Caldwell (T) (yes 2020) —–Canntrell —– Conley —– Conrnwell (yes 2020) —– Crosswhite Hader —– Davis (yes 2020) —– Fetgatter (yes 2020) —–Fugate (yes 2020) —– Gann George —– Goodwin (yes 2020) —– Grego (yes 2020) —– Hardin —– Harris —– Hasenbeck (yes 2020) —– Hays —– Hilbert (yes 2020)—– Humphrey (yes 2020) —– Kane —– Kannady —– Kendrix —– Kerbs (yes 2020) —– Lawson (yes 2020) —– Lepak (yes 2020) —– Lowe (D) (yes 2020)
Manager (yes 2020) —– Marti (yes 2020) —– Maynard —– McBride (yes 2020) —– McDugle (yes 2020) —– McEntire (yes 2020) —– Menz —– Miller (yes 2020) —– Munson —– Newton —– Nichols (yes 2020) —– ODonnell —– Olsen (yes 2020) —– Randleman (yes 2020)
Ranson (yes 2020) —– Sneed —– Staires —– Stark —– Steagall (yes 2020) —– Sterling (yes 2020) —– Strom (yes 2020) —– Swope —– Waldron (yes 2020) —– Wallace —— West (J) —– West (K) —– West (R) —– West (T) (yes 2020) —– Williams (yes 2020) —– Wolfley (yes 2020)
Worthen —– Mr. Speaker (yes 2020)

If you haven’t called or email your Representatives in House, now is the time to see if this bill can be heard again tomorrow for a re-vote.

–Kim
MRF

MARYLAND’S OLDEST POWERSPORTS DEALERSHIP UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP—

The Twigg family is pleased to share that an ownership change has occurred at Twigg Cycles and Twigg Indian Motorcycle. “Since opening the dealership 91 years ago, the fourth-generation, family-owned business has grown unlike anyone could have imagined. Now, our three new owners are looking forward to their turn to continue the Twigg Cycles’ family legacy.”

See the whole story on the Dealernews website.

BIKERNET BOOK OF THE WEEK CLUB–A Very Convenient Warming

If you liked Gregory Wrightstone’s debut book Inconvenient Facts, you will LOVE his latest release.

A Very Convenient Warming was published in January and is moving up the Amazon bestseller charts.

The book is available here for direct purchase or from Amazon here.

Reviews

I’m well into your new book and it is really excellent. A very fitting follow-up to your first book.

–Gregg G., Houston

A VERY CONVENIENT WARMING is the most readable, common-sense book I’ve ever read about CO2 and the Climate Hoax. Your book should be required reading in every school. You make it so very simple. The most significant facts concerned the effects on crops. WOW!!

— Erskine, Phoenix, AZ

You hit a home run on this new book. I was impressed on how you structured the content. You started by explaining the basic facts of climate change followed by the history of geologic earth cooling and warming cycles.

— Mark L. Greene County, PA

MRF & IMA Meet In Daytona

On Wednesday during Bike Week in Daytona Beach, FL. representatives of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF), the Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket Council (IMA), with members of the motorcycling media present, met with an important group of involved motorcycle shop owners, parts distributors, dealers, bike builders, and non-OEM parts manufacturers from the motorcycle aftermarket industry.

In the third meeting between these groups the agenda was to share updates on the MRF’s relevant legislative initiatives to combat threats to the aftermarket industry. Topics included Right to Repair/Right to Modify, Preservation of Internal Combustion Engines, strategies to limit the close collaboration and detrimental impacts that the EPA and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) continue to force on this industry, and the concerns around a continued ability to simply remain in business.

MRF President, Kirk “Hardtail” Willard, also discussed the economic impacts to small business and this industry in particular as highlighted in the Vaughn Study the MRF Commissioned during the EPA’s “Color and Chrome” only campaigns. The draconian concepts of Vehicle End of Life Directives, recent rhetoric around making it illegal to repair vehicles over 15 years old, and most recently a plan to ban chroming beyond 2024 were also hot topics.

The IMA spoke about the costly and extremely arduous process to certify aftermarket parts, an inability to submit multiple components together, a lack of clarity or availability of the standards to meet for certification. There was a consensus that the history and heritage of motorcycling demands transparency around these standards so innovators can work to meet them. There was also frustration around the fact that a well-tuned and well-built motorcycle could get better fuel mileage and produce less emissions is either being ignored or not recognized by bureaucrats bent on regulating this industry out of existence.

IMA Chair, Bob Kay, then brought up what was on everyone’s minds at the meeting. What is going to happen with requirements to sign waivers certifying race use only to have access to performance parts, potentially providing VIN numbers on bikes with parts installed, or a check the box program to acknowledge the end use of parts. This is seen as a method to transfer liability to small shop owners that would legally put them at significant risk and the IMA does not recommend doing this without checking with an attorney.

Bob Kay went on to say in his closing statement, “The IMA is happening and will be there along with the MRF to protect the right to repair and modify motorcycles for independent shops in the aftermarket industry.”

Chris Callen of Cycle Source Magazine had this to say while encouraging anyone with an interest in the motorcycle aftermarket industry to join the IMA, “The animated conquest for freedom requires many small and sustained efforts over time to be successful.”

The time is now to join the Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket Council and get involved in saving the motorcycle aftermarket industry and end users from extinction.

THE WEEK ISN’T OVER—An old brother is going blind and Panhead John from Deadwood brought me a bag fulla old ER magazines. Slowly, I’m thumbing through them.

When I come across one that’s useful for another brother, I put it in the mail or take a shot of the page and text it. I found a short piece on a gun holster and it featured the watch bands we made in 1975. Adam Croft from Dime Bag Leathers is now making them again. I sent him a shot.

Vinnie, an UGLY MC member who is on an island in the Caribbean running a bar sent this shot. He’s trying to find me a very cool kidney belt for my collection.

A retired veteran isn’t happy with his one-day a week job at Chubby Chipmunks so he’s testing his entrepreneurial skills making cotton candy. What do you think?

Panhead John’s Wife, Sharon is running for Deadwood City Council again. We had to show support.

I’m working on a concept drawing with my son for a metal-art piece to raise funds for the museum. This was his first run at a drawing.

I’m still struggling with the chain spacing.

Tomorrow it’s off to Sturgis to work with the Museum on the magazine and the website, etc. Never a dull moment.

Ride Fast and Free Forever, or die trying!

–Bandit

Students with a plan
by Rogue & Kelly Hinseth – Photos Rogue & Holly Steffi

1. Introducing Students To Sons Of Speed Vintage Motorcycle Racing In Hopes They Will Be Interested In Becoming Motorcycle Mechanics.
   
2. From Classroom to Racetrack: Vintage Motorcycle Race Gives Florida Students First-Hand Learning Experience
   
3. Volusia County, FL students visit New Smyrna Speedway as part of Northern Tool + Equipment’s Tools for the Trades™ program

Fifty students enrolled in Career & Technical Education (CTE) courses in Volusia County took a field trip to New Smyrna Speedway thanks to Northern Tool + Equipment and their Tools for the Trades™ program, designed to help address the trades labor shortage by igniting a passion for the trades in the next generation.

Read this awe-inspiring report of a pioneering effort only at Bikernet.com –click and view