by Daniel Patrascu from https://www.autoevolution.com

Back in 1949, the year when parts of this here bike were born, humans were not even dreaming of becoming space explorers. The world was fresh out of the worst years of its existence, a time when most of the planet’s nations tried to obliterate each other in more or less creative and horrific ways.

They tried to do so by using rockets, too, an invention that eventually helped open up humanity’s appetite for space exploration. After the war ended, Germany’s most prestigious rocket scientists, Wernher von Braun and his Nazi V-2 rocket team, found themselves working for the Americans. Faster than you could say “Man belongs wherever he wants to go,” we went to space, reached the Moon, and sent a small army of rovers to Mars.

The fast pace of space exploration was of course sung in literature and movies, but also on mundane objects such as teacups or T-shirts. And yes, even on cars and motorcycles.

This 1949 Harley-Davidson Panhead is one of the objects celebrating space exploration. It does so by displaying one of the most intricate and detailed custom paint jobs we’ve seen on such a project.

Despite the rather limited real estate available, the bike reeks space no matter where you look: there is a big NASA logo visible on one side, a couple of planets and a self-propelled astronaut on top of the tank, suns, moons, and alien UFOs on the side of the thank, and a fancy human spaceship on the frame.

The motorcycle is part of the larger lot of two-wheelers known as the Legends Motorcycles Museum collection. No fewer than 36 of them, including this one, are going under the hammer in April, during the massive Mecum auction, which is to be held in Las Vegas.

There is no estimate on how much the bike is expected to fetch, but those with a big enough passion for Panhead Harleys and space can boldly go where their competitors cannot, as this one is selling with no reserve.

by Kyle Hyatt from https://www.cnet.com

This promises to be a much more approachable and affordable naked bike from the Italian brand. Enough power, very light weight and top-tier safety tech make the Tuono 660 pretty appealing.

The Aprilia Tuono V4 is one of the most over-the-top, terrifying, wonderful and life-affirming machines I’ve ever had the pleasure of riding. It’s massively powerful, thanks to its 1,077-cc V4 engine, it sounds like half of the world’s angriest Ferrari, and it’s packed to the gunwales with brilliant electronics designed to keep your tires on the pavement. It’s also not a bike I’d recommend to most people as a first, second or even third motorcycle. It’s just overwhelming.

Aprilia seems to understand that issue with its Tuono V4, so it’s done the only sensible thing and lopped two cylinders off it, calling it the Tuono 660 and making it a much more accessible motorcycle. It teased the Tuono 660 alongside the RS 660 sportbike at EICMA in 2019, and now it’s getting its official debut, according to an announcement on Wednesday.

The Tuono 660 makes a reasonable 95 horsepower (the V4, for comparison, produces over 170 hp) and has a curb weight of just 403 pounds. This means that things with the baby Tuono should be plenty rowdy but not quite so hectic as on the V4.

Like its bigger brother, the Tuono 660 sports a more upright riding position than the similarly powered RS 660, which means it should be more comfortable for longer rides. It comes with a KYB suspension with limited adjustment, paired with decently sized, radially mounted Brembo brakes. While miles away from the high-zoot stuff on the more expensive V4, this combination should be more than adequate for some hardcore canyon carving for most riders.

To help make the 660 more friendly for newer riders, it comes standard with Aprilia’s excellent APRC rider-aid suite, which includes multilevel traction control, antiwheelie control, cruise control and user-selectable engine maps. Corner-sensitive, multistage antilock brakes are standard as well.

The 2021 Aprilia Tuono 660 will be available in the US towards the end of Q1 for a starting price of $10,499 before dealer fees. It will be interesting to see how it compares to Ducati’s all-new Monster and KTM’s 790 Duke.

Pirelli DIABLO ROSSO™ in Numbers: Five Million Tires Sold Plus a New Upcoming Fourth Generation

Since 2008 the DIABLO ROSSO™ Brand has Been Using the Technology Developed by Pirelli in the FIM Superbike World Championship to Offer Uncompromising Riding Performance

ROME, Ga. (January 7, 2021) – The Pirelli DIABLO ROSSO™ tire family enters the new year with record numbers and celebrates the achievement of an important milestone: over 5,000,000 radial tires sold since its introduction on the market in 2008.

The origins of DIABLO™ and DIABLO ROSSO™ brands

DIABLO™ represents Pirelli’s excellence in the world of high-performance tires designed for two-wheeled vehicles. The DIABLO™ product family, after its introduction into the market in 2002, has rapidly evolved to include in its broad portfolio tires dedicated to other market segments, from professional racing to the supersports road arena. The DIABLO™ brand brings with it more than 18 years of experience, technology and victories in the most prestigious national and international two-wheeled competitions.

Within the DIABLO™ range, the DIABLO ROSSO™ products are dedicated to road machines of a sport leaning. The name DIABLO ROSSO™ was born with the intention of honoring the distinctive color of the Italian national motorsport team since 1922, which was the color racing red (PANTONE® 185C).

The most prestigious motorcycle manufacturers in the world choose DIABLO ROSSO™ products as original equipment for their top models, while many respected international magazines and websites consider DIABLO ROSSO™ products a benchmark for this sector. Among the leading products of this family there are currently tires such as DIABLO ROSSO™ Corsa II, DIABLO ROSSO™ III and DIABLO ROSSO™ Scooter, still reference tires in their respective segments.

Thanks to the high performance of each of these products, supported by the ability of Pirelli engineers to anticipate the demands of a constantly evolving market, and to use cutting-edge materials and technologies, the DIABLO ROSSO™ product family has been able to reach the important milestone of 5,000,000 radial tires sold worldwide.

Respectable numbers that allow Pirelli to announce with great satisfaction and pride the fourth generation of this tire family, with the arrival of DIABLO ROSSO™ IV, the new supersports product created to continue the history of this successful brand. As the direct successor of DIABLO ROSSO™ III, DIABLO ROSSO™ IV raises the bar of this product range even higher, pushing the qualities of handling and grip to the highest levels, both in dry and wet conditions.

DIABLO ROSSO™ IV is dedicated to motorcyclists who love a more dynamic riding style, owners of supersports, hypernaked or crossover bikes who demand from a tire a high level of grip, on all types of asphalt and weather conditions, as well as precise feedback and great handling to make the most of the high performance of their bikes.

For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit Pirelli.com

Hey,

This is going to be an interesting news. I pride myself in staying centered and relaxed under any circumstances. Buddhism has helped with my understanding of the universe and everything around me. But our government is stressing me out. I don’t want to hear about what’s going on. I just want it to go away.

A wise man told me once that when you are stressed sit quietly and breathe. Then think about the element that is stressing you out. When you open your eyes, do so with the realism that whatever it is, was just a thought. It wasn’t real. Stress is a fabrication of your mental agility. You can be stressed about anything and nothing. It’s just the way you think—so change it.

Easier said than done from time to time, yet it is supremely attainable. Let’s hit the news and think about wild choppers, Bonneville racing, new projects and beautiful women. My stress is gone.

Click Here to read the Weekly News on Bikernet.

Join the Cantina – Subscribe Today.

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/custom/subscription.aspx

Hey,

This is going to be an interesting news. I pride myself in staying centered and relaxed under any circumstances. Buddhism has helped with my understanding of the universe and everything around me. But our government is stressing me out. I don’t want to hear about what’s going on. I just want it to go away.

A wise man told me once that when you are stressed sit quietly and breathe. Then think about the element that is stressing you out. When you open your eyes, do so with the realism that whatever it is, was just a thought. It wasn’t real. Stress is a fabrication of your mental agility. You can be stressed about anything and nothing. It’s just the way you think—so change it.

Easier said than done from time to time, yet it is supremely attainable. Let’s hit the news and think about wild choppers, Bonneville racing, new projects and beautiful women. My stress is gone.

THE MOTORSPORTS STUDIO NORTH SCOTTSDALE IS NOW OPEN—
Our Air BnB is booking up for the winter, so schedule your trip to sunny Cave Creek now. The town & golf courses are open and our facility is clean & private. Only 5 miles from town with the best view in the County!

Motorcycle & Trailer, RV Storage available. From $150.00 per night.

–Eric Herrmann
eric@ericherrmannstudios.com

LOWBROW GLOVE COLLECTION–MotoStuka is a company founded on principles rare in today’s throw away culture. Their products represent a dedication to simple, elegant design, high quality materials, and an obsession with time honored craftsmanship.

From the “ME23 Gigante” Tool Roll to the “Hog Butcher” shop aprons, MotoStuka accessories are designed using their hearts as well as their heads. Shanks start out as high-quality cow hide gloves. At the MotoStuka studio, they undergo the “treatment”.

“Shanked” and finished out with waxed thread, they’re then conditioned with a balm made of locally sourced beeswax, natural oils, and distilled tree spirits. This age-old recipe waterproofs the leather and gives it a distressed rich copper finish. The process is dynamic and unpredictable so every glove is unique in color and feel, but ALL get more beautiful with every mile!

Shanks are available in Medium, Large, and Extra Large.

NAMZ Custom Cycle Products–Replacement Rear Fender Harness

Oreland, Pennsylvania based NAMZ Custom Cycle Products continues to “make it easy for you to do it right,” says NAMZ CEO Jeff Zielinski.

This replacement rear fender harness is a 100% plug and play install, and when used as an OEM style replacement harness, it simply plugs into the OE circuit board behind the taillight. “When used on 2018-current FXLR/S models, it allows the use of custom taillights with integrated turn signals as well.”

NAMZ is celebrating 21 years in business providing ‘World Class’ electrical components, LED lighting (Letric brand), Badlands lighting modules, wiring harnesses and installation supplies. NAMZ and Badlands products are available through Drag Specialties, Parts Unlimited, Tucker, Mid-USA, J&P Cycles, V-Twin, Parts Canada, Parts Europe, Custom Chrome Europe, Motorcycle Storehouse, W&W, Zodiac, Rollies Speed Shop and Performance Cycle Wholesale Limited, or directly from the company’s website.

Letric Lighting Co. products are available through Tucker and Rollies Speed Shop or also directly from its website.

NAMZ CUSTOM CYCLE PRODUCTS
www.namzccp.com

–from AMD
Posted by DealerWorld

Motorcycle Riders Foundation LEGISLATIVE ALERTS – 2021 Legislative Priorities

At the 2020 Motorcycle Riders Foundation’s (MRF) 36th annual Meeting of the Minds Conference held in Indianapolis, Indiana a Legislative Strategy Session was hosted by the MRF’s Legislative Committee. The purpose of the session was to establish and prioritize the MRF’s Federal Legislative Agenda for 2021. These priorities are
categorized below. Note that at any time, an item may move to a different category depending on the likelihood of activity. This list should remain fluid and can be adaptable depending on the issue and political environment

2021 HIGH PRIORITY OBJECTIVES

Profiling:
Sustain lobbying efforts for the passage of resolutions or legislation that promotes awareness and prohibition of motorcyclists profiling. Seek opportunities including, but not limited
to H. Res 255, with language that:

– Promotes increased public awareness on the issue of profiling of motorcyclists.

– Encourages collaboration and communication with
the motorcycling community and law enforcement to engage in efforts to end profiling of motorcyclists.

– Urges state law enforcement officials to include
statements condemning profiling of motorcyclists in
written policies and training materials.

– Outlaws the practice of profiling of motorcyclists.

Renewable Fuels:

Advocate for targeted changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) including the following actions:

– Support the universal availability of approved fuel
blends, containing no more than 10 percent ethanol
by volume.

– Promote additional research and independent studies concerning the effects of higher blends of renewable fuels on motorcycles.

– Ensure the availability of separate pumps (i.e., no
multi-dispensing) to minimize the risk of damage to
motorcycle engines where higher blend of renewable fuel blends is available.

– Sustain lobbying efforts for the passage of the
Consumer Protection and Fuel Transparency Act of
2019 (H.R. 1024) or similar legislation which requires information to be provided to the public about the risks associated with the improper use of E15 fuel in certain vehicles, engines, and equipment.

This legislation:

– Revises current EPA rule to include warning labeling requirements for fuel pumps that dispense E15.

– Requires the EPA to create a public education
campaign about the risks of unauthorized use of E
15 as well as the vehicles, engines and equipment
prohibited from using E15.

– Defines multi-dispensing nozzle and requires an
additional warning label on multi-dispensing nozzles to warn consumers of the residual fuel left in
gasoline pump hoses from the previous individual
dispensing.

Autonomous Vehicles:

Advocate and monitor any legislation or regulations related to motorcycles concerning connected and autonomous vehicles (AV):

– Endorse rulemaking to set new standards specific
to seeing, detecting and properly reacting to motorcycles.

– Ensure motorcycles are part of all testing and development procedures.

– Promote that any AV public user advisory committees should include a representative from the motorcycle community and a motorcycle manufacturer.

– Require a public, easily accessible and searchable database where consumers can look up important safety information such as the limitations and capabilities of different products offered by AV manufacturers or service providers.

– Require that all AV manufacturers must submit safety evaluation reports to detail and make public how their vehicles identify motorcycles among other road users. Manufacturers must also include human error analysis in safety reports.

– Require that all AV manufacturers must report
crash data reporting incidents between AVs and motorcycles just as they would incidents between AVs and other road users.

– Protect the safety of motorcyclists with any rules or standards as it relates to electronic and cybersecurity systems including the clarification of rights of data ownership of any recorded data in the context of connected and autonomous vehicles.

– Inclusion of motorcyclists’ perspectives in discussions regarding the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS).

– Work to ensure motorcycles are a separate classification of vehicle and road user for purposes of regulation and testing of AVs.

– Protect the set aside radio spectrums necessary for DSRC vehicle to vehicle communications.

Emission Regulations:

Engage the EPA & Congress on any activity related to motorcycle emission regulations including the RPM ACT, H. 5434, S. 2602, or similar legislation.

Definition of a Motorcycle:

Educate policymakers and advocate for change to current definition that better reflects the current two and threewheel motorcycle landscape. Collaborate with appropriate stakeholders concerning the federal definition of a motorcycle, ensuring that crash and fatality statistics continue to be
separate from other classes of vehicles including autocycles, non-motorcycle powered vehicles such as mopeds, scooters, and various cabin-based steering wheel type vehicles.

Crash Avoidance:

Continue to promote the theme of crash avoidance versus safer crashing urging NHTSA and the DOT to focus on crash prevention and rider education.

Helmet Laws:

Oppose any mandatory federal helmet, apparel or conspicuity standards. Advocate for limiting funding of any federal government entity with increasing involvement in advocating for a universal helmet law or similar initiatives.

Black Box:

Pursue legislative language that any collected or available vehicle data is the property of the consumer and in which the consumer has the choice to opt-out of having their personal data communicated to interested parties.

Surface Transportation Reauthorization (Highway
Bill): Advocate and pursue legislative efforts related to the next highway bill reauthorization (expiring in 2021). Ensure the following provisions are included:

– Preserve the Motorcycle Education & Awareness
Program Grant Funding.

– Preserve the ban on federal funding for Motorcycle Only Checkpoints.

– Preserve the NHTSA Lobbying Ban and expand to
other federal agencies.

– Preserve the Motorcycle Advisory Council (MAC)
to advise the FHWA.

– Preserve motorcycles are not considered single-occupancy vehicles for HOV lane access.

– Oppose any motorcycling related federal blackmails or federal sanctions.

– Monitor for any action that would negatively impact motorcycles, motorcycling, and motorcyclists.

– Advocate the integration of an updated federal
definition of a motorcycle.

– Advocate a mandate that autonomous vehicles
must detect and respond to motorcycles.

– Advocate for expanding opportunities to address
motorcyclist profiling.

– Ensure motorcycles are not banned from federally
funded roads.

2021 MEDIUM PRIORITY OBJECTIVES

Roadway Design:

Pursue safer roadway design strategies in federal infrastructure legislation or discussions (i.e., MAC).
Discriminatory Legislation:

Oppose any motorcycling, motorcycle, or motorcyclist-based discriminatory legislation or rules proposed by the U.S. Congress or by any governmental agency.

Vulnerable Roadway User Terminology:

Monitor and ensure that motorcycles and motorcyclists are a specific and unique category or classification Gang, Club and Other Language:
Monitor and respond to federal legislative or regulatory activity concerning the usage of the terms gang, club, known associate, and associate when referring to motorcyclists.

2021 MONITOR ITEMS

Work to discourage all forms of distracted driving.

Monitor any SAE Motorcycle Roadside Sound Testing
(addressed by individual states).

International Partnerships:

Continue participation in motorcycle-related activity
in the European Union, United Nations, and Canada
informing the membership of key developments.

Continue monitoring any national studies concerning motorcycles (i.e., Federal Crash Causation Study or MSF Naturalistic Study).

Monitor and vigorously oppose any federal standard proposing stamping and certifying of motorcycle exhaust systems.

Monitor private and public organizations that oppose the legislative agenda or mission of the MRF.

Tolling:

– Monitor fair tolling concepts on federally funded
roadways and projects supported by federal bonds.

– Monitor any congestion tolling concerning motorcyclists by federal, state or local governmental agencies.

Lane Splitting:

Monitor and support federal efforts to study and review the benefits and concerns of lane splitting and lane filtering.

Emissions:

Monitor and report on any litigation related to motorcycle emissions violations.

Monitor any tariffs on imported motorcycles, parts or apparel.

–MRF

TESLA Q4 2020 Vehicle Production & Deliveries— In 2020, we produced and delivered half a million vehicles, in line with our most recent guidance. In addition, Model Y production in Shanghai has begun, with deliveries expected to begin shortly.

Q4 2020

ProductionDeliveriesSubject to operating
lease accounting
Model S/X16,09718,92011%
Model 3/Y163,660161,6507%
Total179,757180,5708%

ProductionDeliveries
Model S/X54,80557,039
Model 3/Y454,932442,511
Total509,737499,550

Thank you to all of our customers, employees, suppliers, shareholders and supporters who helped us achieve another great year.

QUICK THROTTLE EVENT MAGAZINE SHUTS DOWN—And the site hasn’t been updated in six months. Mike took over the magazine a few years back, when the writing was on the walls regarding print magazines. He worked hard but couldn’t make it fly.

–Bandit

New Paycheck Protection Program Funds
Available to Powersports Businesses–
Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration is required to issue new regulations for the reopened Paycheck Protection Program, part of the coronavirus relief act passed by Congress late last month. Firms that obtained a PPP loan in 2020 may again qualify, and first-time applicants can also request a loan out of the $285 billion in available funds. The deadline to apply is March 31.

“This is welcome news for small powersports businesses, and we encourage those who need help to visit the SBA website, see if they are eligible, and fill out an application,” said Scott Schloegel, senior vice president of the MIC Government Relations Office. “There will be more flexible rules regarding loan forgiveness and, thanks to a change in the recent bill, the loans will be tax-deductible. But, the criteria for a second PPP loan is stricter and loans are capped at $2 million.”

Second-time applicants must have fewer than 300 employees, and show that they suffered a 25-percent drop in gross receipts during the first, second, or third quarter in 2020.

The new PPP regulations extend the employee-retention tax credit into 2021, as well as a payroll-tax subsidy for employers offering paid sick-leave. The year-end appropriations legislation also included an extension of the two-wheel, plug-in electric vehicle credit. Worked on by the MIC’s GRO, this extension provides a 10-percent tax credit on the purchase price of a new electric plug-in motorcycle, up to a maximum of $2,500.

–MIC

RODDER’S JOURNAL DEAL OF THE YEAR–2021 is here and we’re starting the year off with some serious savings! From now until Tuesday, use the code NEWYEAR (no spaces) at checkout to take 25% off all subscriptions, renewals, gift subscriptions and gift certificates. These have been favorites throughout the Holiday Season, and there’s never been a better time to save.

Our New Year’s sale brings the cost of a one-year domestic subscription under $45—our lowest price in years. Looking for a thoughtful after-Christmas gift? A TRJ gift certificate is always the perfect fit. These vintage timing tag-style certificates can be emailed directly to you with a personalized message, so there’s no postage needed!

This sale is only for a limited time, so make sure to take advantage of this offer while you can. To place an order, click the red boxes above or give us a call at (800) 750-9550 in North America or (804) 496-6906 internationally.

Cheers and Happy New Year!
Your Friends at The Rodder’s Journal

ROYAL ENFIELD’S SLIDE SCHOOL NEWS–
“I want to give more women more bikes to build and race,” says Royal Enfield’s Breeann Poland explaining how the BTR program is doubling up with flat track and roadracing in 2021.

“Our dealers were super psyched about BTR last year, so the women selected to go racing will be located close to a participating dealer and that dealer can help them with shop space or tools and help guide the builds because I’m not going to be there to mentor so many new women. It will also help get the dealers engaged… when we do identify the women with both flat track and roadracing, we will identify the dealers to work with those women.”

And how does the Himalayan fit into the growing ADV niche?

–Dealer News

Designed With Experts S&S

S&S has a proven track record (literally!) in American Flat Track and has taken that expertise and applied it to the Himalayan. In tuning the Himalayan for track use, the obligatory 19-inch rims have been added, as has a high-mount exhaust and carbon fiber seat unit.

Every bit of unnecessary road equipment has been removed, and a lightweight Full Spectrum Power battery, which reduces the total bike weight to approximately 164 kg (360 lbs), has been added. The frame remains stock with no mods to the sub-frame, perfectly fitting within the seat unit.

[page break]

THIS JUST IN FROM THE CLIMATE DEPOT--Meteorologist Anthony Watts: “New data shows the global climate-related death risk has dropped by over 99% since 1920. Despite the near constant caterwauling from climate alarmists that we are in a “climate emergency”, real-world data, release at the end of 2020 shows that climate related deaths are now approaching zero. The data spans 100 years of “global warming” back to 1920 and shows “climate related” deaths now approaching zero. Above is an update of the graph in the 2020 peer-reviewed article by Bjørn Lomborg: Welfare in the 21st century: Increasing development, reducing inequality, the impact of climate change, and the cost of climate policies.”

Bjorn Lomborg reports: “Back in the 1920s, the death count from climate-related disasters was 485,000 on average every year. In the last full decade, 2010-2019, the average was 18,357 dead per year or 96% lower. In the first year of the new decade, 2020, the preliminary number of dead was even lower at 8,086 — 98% lower than the 1920s average.

But because the world’s population also quadrupled at the same time, the climate-related *death risk* has dropped even faster. The death risk is the probability of you dying in any one year. In the 1920s, it was 243 out of a million people that would die from climate-related disasters. In the 2010s, the risk was just 2.5 per million people — a drop of 99%. Now, in 2020, the preliminary number is 1 per million — 99.6% lower.”

TODAY IN HISTORY—1789, January 07
First U.S. presidential election

Congress sets January 7, 1789 as the date by which states are required to choose electors for the country’s first-ever presidential election. A month later, on February 4, George Washington was elected president by state electors and sworn into office on April 30, 1789.

As it did in 1789, the United States still uses the Electoral College system, established by the U.S. Constitution, which today gives all American citizens over the age of 18 the right to vote for electors, who in turn vote for the president. The president and vice president are the only elected federal officials chosen by the Electoral College instead of by direct popular vote.

Today political parties usually nominate their slate of electors at their state conventions or by a vote of the party’s central state committee, with party loyalists often being picked for the job. Members of the U.S. Congress, though, can’t be electors. Each state is allowed to choose as many electors as it has senators and representatives in Congress. During a presidential election year, on Election Day (the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November), the electors from the party that gets the most popular votes are elected in a winner-take-all-system, with the exception of Maine and Nebraska, which allocate electors proportionally. In order to win the presidency, a candidate needs a majority of 270 electoral votes out of a possible 538.

On the first Monday after the second Wednesday in December of a presidential election year, each state’s electors meet, usually in their state capitol, and simultaneously cast their ballots nationwide. This is largely ceremonial: Because electors nearly always vote with their party, presidential elections are essentially decided on Election Day.

Although electors aren’t constitutionally mandated to vote for the winner of the popular vote in their state, it is demanded by tradition and required by law in 26 states and the District of Columbia (in some states, violating this rule is punishable by $1,000 fine). Historically, over 99 percent of all electors have cast their ballots in line with the voters. On January 6, as a formality, the electoral votes are counted before Congress and on January 20, the commander in chief is sworn into office.

–History.com

ART FOR THE LEGENDS RIDE IN STURGIS–
I’m humbled to know such caring, talented people like Darren McKeag and Mario Crim. The art they donated to last year’s Legends Ride – Sturgis Buffalo Chip was amazing, but their hearts are even more so.

–Marilyn Stemp
City Commissioner
Town of Buffalo Chip

TARIFF WARS ALERT–Vietnamese Imports May Be Hit Next

Potential Vietnam tariffs could hit traditional supply chains for vehicle manufacturers, as well as textiles and footwear used as safety gear in the powersports industry. The United States Trade Representative held a virtual hearing on December 29 regarding an investigation into possible currency manipulation by Vietnam.

This investigation is being fast-tracked by the Trump administration in order to impose new tariffs on goods imported from Vietnam. Many companies have shifted their production from China to Vietnam as a result of the billions of dollars in tariffs that the administration has imposed on Chinese-made products.

“The MIC’s Government Relations Office sent a letter in November opposing the possible tariffs and final comments are due just before midnight on Thursday,” said Scott Schloegel, senior vice president of the MIC’s GRO. “We’ll send in a follow-up before the deadline and we urge anyone who would like to oppose these potential tariffs to submit their comments right away.”

Submit comments to:
Regulations.gov
Ambassador Robert Lighthizer
United States Trade Representative
600 17th Street NW
Washington, DC 20508
RE: Section 301 Investigation of Vietnam’s Acts, Policies, and Practices Related to Currency Valuation (Docket Number USTR–2020–0037)

THE NEED FOR INFRASTRUCTURE FOR A GROWING POPULATION–Protecting Wildlife and Motorists through Infrastructure Design

Several states have recently announced that they have added wildlife over and underpasses, with many more on the way. Large animals such as deer, elk, and bears roam seasonally, frequently colliding with vehicles in the process. In Wyoming, for example, there are 6,000 documented collisions annually. Wildlife managers and transportation engineers use infrastructure design to help prevent wildlife-vehicle collisions. As a unique and indispensable tool for accident prevention, this kind of infrastructure also helps reestablish biological connectivity for herds.

The benefit is not just for animals but motorists too. Not only can a collision with a large animal total your car, but it will also likely kill the animal and could put your life or your passenger’s in mortal danger.

State Farm estimates that between July 1, 2019, and June 30, 2020, there were over 1.9 million animal-collision insurance claims in the US. According to a recent company study, new data show US drivers have a 1 in 116 chance of a collision with wildlife. Most of the time, collisions occur at dusk or during the night in October, November, and December.

Overpasses are expensive to build. In Wyoming, two-lane road structures cost between $6 to 14 million. An interstate overpass is even more expensive, typically in the $20 to $30 million range. That is why the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and WYDOT only recommend these structures when justified and suited to the species and location. Other lower-cost options include using existing underpasses, slowing night-time speed limits, posting more visible “wildlife present” warning signs, and improving sightlines by keeping rights of way mowed and clear of trees and brush.

Data and other on-the-ground conditions must support any road modifications. Sometimes the data include decades of research on how big game such as deer, elk, moose, or pronghorn migrate. When animal bypasses are appropriately located, they have proven to be 80 to 90 percent effective in reducing collisions.

In Utah, a video was released showing how successful a wildlife overpass over Interstate 80 has become. Three-and-a-half miles of fencing guide wildlife to the overpass that crosses above six lanes of traffic. This overpass is 50 feet wide and 320 feet long. In the last two years, cameras on the bridge have captured herd animals plus black bears, bobcats, cougars, coyotes, and smaller animals like yellow-bellied marmots and porcupines crossing the bridge. This overpass came online in 2018, but in the two years before completion, Utah DOT recorded 106 collisions with wildlife, including 98 deer and three moose.

Most of these bridges are for wildlife only. In San Antonio, Texas, the city has built a human-animal natural bridge between two sections of a city park. City officials claim it is the longest bridge of this kind in the US. The Robert L.B. Tobin Land Bridge stretches over a six-lane highway and connects two sections of the 330 acre Phil Hardberger Park, named after a former mayor. The overpass has been a public-private partnership with $10 million in private donations added to $13 million from a bond approved by voters in 2017.

Recently in Colorado, the Interstate Highway 25 South Gap project added two wildlife underpasses at the Greenland Road and I-25 Interchange. Both are 100 feet wide by 18 feet tall and will hopefully prove to be highly effective at minimizing animal-vehicle interactions. The Colorado DOT plans to add two more in the area with the hope of reducing such accidents by 90 percent.

Another planned wildlife overpass is the 200 foot-long Liberty Canyon Wildlife Crossing stretching over the 101 Freeway in Los Angeles. This bridge is expected to be finished in the next five years. Many migrating animals have lost their natural range because they cannot easily cross the intimidating highway. The planned bridge will benefit all wildlife in the area and, in particular, mountain lions who face isolation in the Santa Ana and Santa Monica Mountains and possible extinction.

Protecting wildlife protects motorists in the end. Safety comes with a price tag. Not taking appropriate measures has a bigger one.

LET’S GO RACING–Task Force Plan Got Americans Back On The Track

Members of the Safe-To-Race Task Force, which spearheaded the research and writing of guidelines for conducting competition motorcycle events during the coronavirus outbreak and put American motorcycle racers back on tracks and podiums, are the 2020 AMA Motorcyclists of the Year.

Read about their efforts in the January issue of American Motorcyclist online.

AMA members can log in at americanmotorcyclist.com and read the story today.

JIMS TOOL OF THE WEEK–JIMS “On Bike” Valve Spring Compressor for Milwaukee-Eight

When changing valve springs for performance upgrades, or simply replacing a leaking valve seal, it is necessary for the technician to completely remove the cylinder head from the engine. This adds unnecessary time and expense. JIMS has developed a creative new tool that eliminates this step completely.

This patent pending “on bike” valve spring compressor kit for Milwaukee Eight engines, works with the cylinder head installed on the motor.

Simply remove the rocker box covers and rocker arms and install this unique compressor on the rocker arm shaft. Once the cylinder is filled with compressed air, the technician can easily rotate the tool and compress the top collar of the valve spring exposing the keepers to remove the top collar, valve spring, and seal. This patent pending tool dramatically saves time for any technician working on Milwaukee Eight performance upgrades or service work.

Part No. 5835 – For use on the Milwaukee-Eight® Engines.

WHACKY LEGISLATION OF THE WEEK–
Leaders in the House of Representatives announced on Friday a rules package for the 117th Congress that includes a proposal to use “gender-inclusive language” and eliminate gendered terms such as “‘father, mother, son, daughter,” and more.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Rules Committee Chairman James McGovern (D-Mass.) announced on Friday that the rules package includes changes that would “honor all gender identities by changing pronouns and familial relationships in the House rules to be gender neutral.”

I just want my democrat women friends to know and feel reassured that I will respect the wishes of the hard working Democrat controlled house of Representatives and that from now on I will refer to you as stated; “individuals who menstruate” and I suppose that for those “individuals who menstruate” that have gone through menopause (soon to be known as what, individualopause) and no longer menstruate I will refer to as “individuals who no longer menstruate” and for those who don’t take an estrogen supplement I will refer to you as “individuals who no longer menstruate, don’t take estrogen supplements and grow a beard.”

For my Republican women friends I will continue to refer to you as a woman or lady.

Is Third Time the Charm? Ban Red-Light Cameras in Florida in 2021–

Enforcement, DUE PROCESS, FLORIDA, LEGISLATION, Policing for Profit, Red-Light Cameras, REVENUE GENERATION, RIGHT-TURN-ON-RED, SAFETY, TICKET FINES, TICKET REVENUE
The Texas legislature banned them in its last session in 2019 (Texas has a bicameral legislature). Now, it’s Florida’s turn to ban red-light cameras.

Representatives have passed a bill to do just that in the last two sessions, but each bill was always stymied in the state senate. State Representative Anthony Sabatini posted HB6009 in early December and really does not like this policing for profit mechanism. He said in an interview, “They are just a taxpayer fraud scheme. They are just a way for local governments to pad their pockets and raise more revenues.”

Sabatini added that his research shows that the state’s DOT cannot prove RLCs make intersections safer:

“They actually make us less safe. There’s been traffic studies conducted by various government organizations, and what they find is accidents actually go up at intersections that have red-light cameras.”

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, 58 local governments operate more than 500 RLCs. Statewide, cities and towns have sent more than one million violation notices annually for the past four years. Also, total crashes at intersections with RLCs have increased by 15 percent since the automated devices were installed.

Fines are $158. Motorists can receive a fine if they turn right on red (legal in the state), fail to come to a complete stop, or cross the white line (even an inch) at an intersection. A recent state analysis projected that local governments could see a drop in revenue of around $75 million a year if HB6009 passes.

Sabatini said that the current law is not altering ‘bad’ driving behavior and punishes lower-income residents with the $158 ticket. This will be the third year he is trying to repeal the 2010 law. In 2018, the House approved a similar measure, but the bill failed to move forward in the Senate.

Sabatini told the Florida Daily, “What we need right now with COVID is as much tax relief as possible. The more we can cut people’s daily living expenses and taxes, the more we are going to be helping them.”

To ban RLCs in the state of Florida, motorists need to make their voice heard by contacting state representatives and senators stating the reasons you support HB6009.

If you would to become more involved in defeating red-light cameras in Florida, contact

NMA Florida Government Relations Director Axl David at axl@motorists.org. This is what he said recently about RLCs:

“Red-light cameras in the Sunshine State and across the country are a failed experiment. Automated photo enforcement was popular during the Great Recession for cash-strapped cities facing budget deficits. Since red-light cameras have proliferated in Florida, study after study has proven they only make our streets more dangerous.”

“When red-light camera companies partner with law enforcement to incentivize unsafe driving, city officials are unlikely to jeopardize this valuable income source. The state legislature should send a clear message to local governments across Florida that this dangerous taxpayer scam must come to an end.”

If the RLC ban does not pass in 2021, it will be time to organize a ballot initiative to vote them out of existence.

Thank you for your support of Florida motorists’ rights!

By Shelia Dunn , NMA Communications Director •
–NMA

BIKERNET READER COMMENT, THE PANDEMIC BLUES–Been reading about your Pan and Knuckle starting problems. The Pan seems to be really picking on you.

I have been working on a ‘51 pan with a S&S carb. I get it started but it continually runs ragged. The timing is not critical. I can move it 10 degrees or so either way and start it right up.

I have blown off using the Mark and just try to find the place it runs best. I was fouling plugs, so I ended up using a punch on the main jet to make it smaller. It has the smallest slow jet S&S makes.

I saw that glass filter on the knuckle. I have had one of those vibrate apart going down the road and dump gas all over my leg. Just lucky it didn’t catch on fire.

Best luck with mags with fresh plugs gapped very close. Like .025. Good luck and ask me anything. I’ve got 50 years of experience with old Harleys. I know you do too.

–Bill May

NEW CALIFORNIA DMV LAWS–California has new traffic laws pertaining to good Samaritans, cell phone usage and more that are set to go into effect in 2021.

The new laws were released mid-December by the California Highway Patrol. They kick in Jan. 1, unless otherwise noted.

Emergency vehicle safety

Drivers will now be required to slow down or change lanes when approaching stationary emergency vehicles with emergency lights, such as a tow truck or Caltrans vehicle, on local streets and roads. Until now, such slowing was only required on freeways.

This law is designed to protect law enforcement officials or first responders who may be outside of their vehicles while responding to emergencies.

Unattended children

Bystanders and passersby will not face civil or criminal liability for damaging vehicles in order to remove unattended children, age 6 or younger, who are in immediate danger from heat, cold, lack of ventilation or other dangerous circumstances.

Distracted driving

Beginning July 1, driving while using a cell phone “in a handheld manner” will result in a point being added to a driver’s record. The penalty applies if the violation is the second to occur within 36 months of being convicted of the same offense.

Four points within 12 months, six within 24 months or eight within 36 months could lead to a suspended license, according to the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

The law pertains to anyone caught talking on the phone or texting while driving unless they’re using a hands-free device. Anyone under the age of 18 cannot use any devices while driving.

Emergency vehicle alerts

Authorized emergency vehicles will be allowed to use a “Hi-Lo” warning sound, which is different from a siren. It will be used to notify the public of an immediate need to evacuate an area for an emergency.

License plates for veterans

The California Department of Motor Vehicles also announced changes that will benefit veterans of the United States military.

Beginning Jan. 1, eligible disabled veterans may verify eligibility for special or distinguishing license plates or a disabled person parking placard if they present certification from the California Department of Veterans Affairs or a county veterans services officer.

Previously, the DMV only accepted certification from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs in the absence of a medical certificate.

The DMV also will waive applicable knowledge and driving skills tests required for a commercial driver’s license if the applicant is a current or former member of the United States Armed Forces licensed to drive large trucks. They need to qualify for the Troops to Trucks or Military Even Exchange program.

Desert Sun reporter Colin Atagi covers crime, public safety and road and highway safety. He can be reached at colin.atagi@desertsun.com or follow him at @tdscolinatagi. Support local news, subscribe to The Desert Sun.

—www.desertsun.com

SOMETHING FOR BONNEVILLE THIS YEAR–

https://www.torqtalk.com/home/cadzzilla-mustang-designer-larry-erickson-builds-a-bonneville-roadster

–from larry erickson
Kustoms Inc

LARRY ERICKSON
+1 248 705 4294
lerickson32@gmail.com

–from Kustoms Inc.

WARNING–Carjackings were up, in the latest bleak development of 2020

In Minneapolis, carjackings were up 537 percent in November. Chicago had more than 1,150 in 2020. Kansas City, Louisville, Milwaukee, Nashville, New Orleans, Philadelphia, St. Louis, and even Wichita, Kansas reported an increase. Car thefts are up overall too!

–NMA

Progressive International Motorcycle Shows (IMS)
Outdoor Summer IMS Dates Announced

Since the innovative October announcement that it was to abandon its time-honored winter indoor expo center based event series in favor of an outdoor summer series, Progressive International Motorcycle Shows (IMS) has now added detail to the concept announcement with dates and locations.

Initially nine dates and locations have been announced – with venue details and the possibility of more dates to be announced soon.

“IMS Outdoors will confirm the return and expansion of several fan-favorite attractions from the traditional IMS tour format, including the feature and display of the latest street bikes, dirt bikes, cruisers, scooters, ATVs, gear and aftermarket accessories.

“Other returning attractions will include the Marketplace for attendees to purchase the latest gear, an expanded Adventure Out! area featuring more RV products for the adventurer, stunt shows, SHIFT, IMS Vintage, expanded ‘Discover The Ride’ program, and the Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show.”

It is good news that the Ultimate Builder series has been confirmed, though at the time of going to press, the organizers were not saying whether J&P Cycles are to return as the headline sponsor.

Interestingly, the organizers concluded their news release by stating that “IMS is working towards expanding the tour schedule in 2022 and beyond to revisit past IMS markets and new markets that work best for attendees, participating OEMS and brands, venue operators and event staff.”

www.outdoors.motorcycleshows.com

–AMD
Posted by DealerWorld

LIFESTYLE CYCLE DEAL OF THE WEEK–2014 Harley-Davidson FLHXS – Street Glide® Special for $18,995.00

see it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9685014

This bike is a super clean Street Glide check out the color

ONLY 15683.00 Miles !!!!!

2014 Big blue pearl Harley-Davidson STREET GLIDE SPECIAL FLHXS

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

* Sony stereo touchscreen with bluetooth
* Rockford Fosgate Speakers
* MGS Custom’s slip-on’s
* Color matched extended bags
* Black ball milled grips
* Tinted windshield

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

EZ FINANCING-SHIPPING AVAILABLE!!!

Fill out an online application and ride today!!!

**Open 7 days a week**

Just $18,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155

EICMA 2021 – 23rd to 28th November–Italian trade association ANCMA – the owner of EICMA, the ‘Milan Show’ – has announced an agreement with Fiera Milano (Rho) for dates of its 2021 expo that are two weeks later in November than usual.

The 78th EICMA will be held from 23rd to 28th November 2021, with Tuesday 23rd and Wednesday 24th (theoretically) reserved “for the press and [motorcycle industry] professionals only.” Originally scheduled for 9th to 14th November, the two week postponement is “linked to harmonizing the calendar of the trade fairs programmed in the exhibition grounds.”

In other words, EICMA A.p.A., the organizing subsidiary of ANCMA, had likely gone ahead and assumed it could have its usual dates without checking with Expo Center management!

These dates were confirmed by Paolo Magri, the CEO of EICMA S.p.A. and Chairman of Confindustria ANCMA (National Association of Bicycles, Motorcycles and Accessories), who has described the decision as “an act of responsibility in the interest of the trade fair system and a real and up-to-date instrument of opportunity of growth for the market and to relaunch companies.”

In a news release heavy on the importance of the long-term relationship that ANCMA has had with Fiera Milano, it would appear that Magri and the EICMA S.p.A. team had overlooked the long-term ‘domino effect’ that the cancelation and rescheduling of dozens of different events planned for the Milan Rho facility has had on bookings and availability.

The new dates will likely have the OEM exhibitor and some other national motorcycle industry shows scrambling – not least the MCIA’s ‘Motorcycle Live’ at Birmingham, England.
www.eicma.it

CHOPPERS MAGAZINE, ISSUE 4 IS OUT– Issue 4
$12.00
Good things come to those who wait… Issue 4 is now shipping. Its packed full of greatness as usual, including a full color pull out poster by Russell Murchie. Do not miss out… Order now to secure your copy.

NEW YEAR THOUGHT–A thought for the new year. You are older today than you ever were but you are younger than you ever will be!!

Happy New Year

–Steve Bauman

WHAT’S NEXT—Hang on, Rogue just posted a tech about dresser sound systems from Harley-Davidson. I’m working on another Cantina Episode and Bill May’s short Run to the Sun ride should be posted tomorrow.

I’m looking at buildings in Sturgis, since the guy who owns the station I wanted to buy in Deadwood doesn’t use it, but doesn’t want to sell either. I’m still working on it.

I’m working on another Sam’s Pics story about when I first became involved in the industry. We think this shit is nuts, but remember the Vietnam war and how it fuck with our country. We survived and will rock and roll again. The truth always seems to surface.

In the meantime we need to prepare for Bonneville and vaccines. This too shall pass.

Ride fast and free Forever!

–Bandit

by Daniel Patrascu from https://www.autoevolution.com

The current Harley-Davidson portfolio still includes a number of exciting motorcycles, but even if this is not very obvious today, the bike maker is also playing in the trike segment. There are three models offered for this market, the Freewheeler, the Tri Glide Ultra, and the CVO Tri Glide. All can somewhat trace their roots all the way back to the early 1930s.

Fueled by the desire not to succumb to the financial disaster that was to cost countless American businesses as the result of The Great Depression, Harley came up with the Servi-Car. It was supposed to be a tool for the automotive segment, to be used in the related service industry.

Being tiny and looking not unlike a three-wheeled pickup truck, the Servi-Car was quickly adopted by small businesses, public vendors, and even police departments. Its success would soon skyrocket, and it helped keep Harley afloat through the troubled Depression years.

The Servi-Car was in production well into the 1970s, which means a great deal of them were made. Sadly, few are still in a condition recommending them for collections or investment, and this is why, at times, people have to come up with innovative ways to quench their Servi-Car thirst.

Sitting in front of you is one of the descendants of the workhorse, a Tri Glide from 2011. It was built in such a way as to be a nod to its forefather, and thoroughly maintained as to be accepted into the Springville, Utah-based Legends Motorcycles Museum.

Sporting Guide Dogs of America logos and whitewall wheels that spin under the power stock engine and the 6-speed transmission, the trike is up for grabs together with 35 other siblings from the same collection. It will go under the hammer in April, during the postponed Mecum auction in Las Vegas. There is no estimate as to how much it is going to get.

It was a lesson in Frustration on Several Fronts

I’ve built a number of bikes and maybe I was just lucky. With the Pandemic not so lucky. Trouble getting it started in Sturgis, so we brought it home and sent the Morris Magneto back to Deadwood Custom Cycles for a check-over.

Click Here to read this Tech Article on Bikernet.

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by Daniel Patrascu from https://www.autoevolution.com

Back in the years before the Second World War, Harley-Davidson was, like all other companies, fighting for its survival. Little did it know that the changes and decisions it made during those times would make it the only other bike maker, alongside Indian, to survive The Great Depression.

But it was not a smooth ride. In the first years of the period, Harley’s sales dropped by about seven times, and as a result so did production. That means finding motorcycles made from 1930 to after the war is not an easy task today. On the other hand, those who own such a two-wheeler often find themselves sitting on a real treasure.

A large pack of such motorcycles was scheduled to go under the hammer this month, but due to the ongoing health crisis, it will do so in April. The pack is called the Legends Motorcycles Museum collection and comprises a total of 36 bikes, many of them coming from the time of the Great Depression.

The 1931 V series model we have here is one of them. Wearing an olive and orange color scheme on a body that looks refreshingly vintage, it is part of the side-valve engined family of bikes that replaced the J series produced up until the start of the 1930s.

The new series comprised the standard V line, of which this here motorcycle is part of, the VL and the VS. They were all powered by the new Harley powerplant that, coupled with a host of other improvements, made the V series a very fun to ride family of bikes.

A number of them survive to this day, and according to Hagerty, a concours condition one can go for as much as $28,000.

The one here seems to fit the description, especially because it is just that, a show bike. It sells on a Bill of Sale for display purposes only and can not be ridden on public roads. There is no estimate of how much it is expected to fetch.

I’ve built a number of bikes and maybe I was just lucky. With the Pandemic not so lucky. Trouble getting it started in Sturgis, so we brought it home and sent the Morris Magneto back to Deadwood Custom Cycles for a check-over.

When I got it back, I retimed the engine, adjusted the carb and kicked. It finally popped. I had all the elements in place, but I wanted to know more. I called Lee Clemens, the owner of Departure Bike Works for over 40 years. Throughout his tenure he built anything and everything, so I asked him for some of his precious time.

First we talked about magnetos. I was instructed to set the points at .016 by Flathead Fern’s son at the swap meet and Lee confirmed it.

(Sidebar: Fern’s son warned about a new bad condenser mag guys were running with a Chevy logo stamped in the side. They are a cheap Chinese product and won’t last. Beware.)

Lee added something. He gets hard-starting old Sportsters on a regular basis. He removes the point plate carefully and with a Scotch brite pad cleans the magnet plates and armature of any rust. They fire right up.

Jason Mook at Deadwood Custom Cycles told me that mags can lose their magnetic charge, and that makes sense, if a magneto sits around in the wrong position for an extended period of time. He also said the charge can be reenergized in a few minutes by spinning the amateur.

Okay, I checked the marks on the flywheels to make sure the slot was 35 degrees before top dead center on the front cylinder, but Lee warned that finding TDC and backing down to the timing slot was not the way to go because of gear lash. You want the flywheels to come up to the slot, not back down to it.

The advanced mark should show up with the front piston 7/16 of an inch before TDC. Make sure to use something that won’t break off in the cylinder. I’ll bet JIMS has a special tool.

Lee also suggested timing the locked-down mag slightly retarded. Don’t want to break a leg. I use an ohm meter on distributors to set the points to just beginning to open. Lee suggested the cellophane wrapper off a pack of smokes. He wants the thin material to just drag out from the points where you lock it down.

It’s interesting. We never set up a mag to be retarded or advanced. I don’t know of any magneto mounting plate that allows retarded and advanced positions, but I bet there is one. We will get more into that, when we discuss the Dicey Knucklehead.

Regarding the carb, this has a M-35 Linkert rebuilt by Mike Egan, 20 years ago with next to no mileage and hopefully no Ethanol fuel. Lee suggested 4 turns out on the low range jet. Linkerts don’t have accelerator pumps, so jerking on the throttle doesn’t do anything. You need to use the choke.

He suggested no ignition and kicking it four times with the choke closed and the throttle open to pull fuel into the cylinders without any spark. Then opening the choke slightly and the throttle at quarter open and kicking.

I started to check everything again. Lee also confirmed that to find the timing mark easily take the front intake pushrod all the way up, and as it starts to close, start looking into the hole for the slot. Just after the valve closes the slot will appear. In this case the wheels contained a round indent at top dead center for the front cylinder.

Okay, we timed it again. Still wouldn’t start. Took the float bowl off and cleaned all the jets. Here’s where we started to learn more about Linkerts. We got it to deliver fuel and pop out through the carb on each kick. Lee said it was too advanced. We adjusted and kicked some more.

Magnetos are so cool in some respects but positioning them and clearance can have issues. Maybe that’s why they don’t have retard and advance plates. There’s not enough room for them to turn.

Lee said the copper float bowls in Linkerts were bullshit and to replace it. The adjustment must be perfect at ¼-inch from the edge of the float casting to the float bowl ring. He also said the float needle must hold air for 10 seconds or the float will flood the carb.

If you wash the cylinders down with fuel, it will destroy a set of rings in a hot flash. He also mentioned a small stapled book about Linkerts. I will try to find one. The Linkert carb bible.

The next day we discussed oil tanks, venting and external vents. When I kicked the Pandemic the rubber oil cap popped out. There is a feed line to the oil pump and a return line, no problem right. Then there is a vent line from the cam chest to the oil tank, but that doesn’t mean the oil cap needs to be vented like a gas cap.

 Later engines had a vent off the case behind the oil pump. There is a solution for this line. “It should be at least a foot long and not contain any goofy filter at the end,” said Lee. There’s a pulse of air being released. If the line is too short and you’re riding on dusty roads, it can suck dirt into the engine. A 1-foot line should be fed to the ground, the primary chain or the rear chain.

Okay, I asked Kent Weeks of Lucky Devil Metalworks about oil tanks and he brought up a couple of items to check. He wants me to check the compression and the valves again. If compression is weak or the top end leaking, that can add addition pressure in the cam case that can push into breather and into the oil bag. It can also be caused if Evo head breathers aren’t doing their job.

We also discussed starting fresh engines and how the drive gear on the circuit breaker lines up with the intermediate gear in the cam case. If there’s slop there the timing will change. Kent said he ran into two recent examples in his shop, Lucky Devil Metalworks in Houston. One was a Pan and the other an early Shovelhead. One would run one day and not the next, because the timing shifted so much.

Get this, he wanted to take the Pan for a test ride. It was on his lift, so he climbed up and kicked it. It kicked back and launched him into the air. He came down and his knee took the brunt against a fishtip exhaust pipe tearing the flesh as he fell. Then his lower back got tweaked against unforgiving concrete on the slick deck.

That’s not all. The open shop door revealed folks outside, but no one seemed to notice, so he crawled over, slid the door shut and lay back down on the concrete in abject pain. After a while he struggled to a couch. Then the phone rang. It was one of the girls in the complex office. “Can you come over,” she said frightened. “This badass is coming and threatening me.”

“I need a break,” Kent said. “Can you handle it?”

A minute later she called back. “I’m really concerned.”

This time Kent explained what went down and how he peeled the skin away from his kneecap. “Please,” she uttered.

“Okay,” Kent said. “I’ll come over, but if he acts up there’s nothing I can do but to shoot him. If you’re alright with that I’m coming.”

Kent hobbled to the office armed and sat in the corner. Not long after he arrived the door opened and Billy badass stumbled in using crutches. His leg was badly bandaged. Seems someone else just shot him.

Meanwhile back at the Pandemic in Wilmington, California, we removed the magneto and put it in a vice and spun the bastard with a machined Allen wrench chunk. It fired like a champ. We installed, timed it and still nothing.

I had prepared for an alternate contingency and found a used classic auto-advance mag from Flathead Fern. He checked it out and installed points and a condenser. I was concerned about my ’46 Knuck. It wasn’t starting and held another Morris Magneto. It was a monster with a retard unit attached for easy firing. You don’t need to kick these units hard, just nice and easy.

I took the S&S Shorty off and it was a mess. I cleaned the jets, the accelerator pump, checked the float and it started to work. I added a new foam filter from a shop vac to the Fantasy in Iron air cleaner and it worked like a champ with the help of the Redhead.

I put it back together and corrected the mounting some, replace the fuel filter and turned on the gas.

Fuel ran everywhere, so I shut it off and fixed the leaky accelerator pump cap.

I didn’t touch the mag and it fired to life immediately. Dave from Morris Mags and I installed that mag in the mid-’90s. It’s never been touched. Amazing.

So, when it came to the Pandemic we wondered which way to turn. I spent some change on two auto-advance circuit breakers, one new re-pop from Twin Power. It was cool but the base was wrong, but workable.

I installed a coil on the Pandemic and made up another set of sparkplug wires. I fashioned an old, modified bracket for the coil around my funky wiring system. I also had to add an ignition switch, wire the coil and buy and install a small battery.

I put it all together and timed the bike. It fired on the first kick. Every time after that when attempting to fire the bike, it hit on the first kick, after choking the carb. Amazing.