WindVest Motorcycle Windshields is in full production of replacement windshields for the 2018-Present Indian Challenger. Like the Indian Chieftain and Road Master, the windshield is motorized. You have the option of moving the windshield up when on long distant rides or put in a lower position for cruising around town. The replacement WindVest is available in either a 7” or 8” screen. Both come in a dark smoke tint only. All of our windshields are designed to look over the top of, out of your line of vision. Contact us with any questions you may have. 408-762-7180 877-370-7326 toll free sales@windvest.com www.windvest.com

Biker’s Choice Addresses Top Requested H-D Mod with Lowering Kit for Harley-Davidson Tourers

October 15, 2020 – Fort Worth TX – Confidence – that’s the feeling motorcycle riders are after when handling their motorcycle. For many, confidence comes with solid footing at a stop, often achieved by lowering the seat height of their bike. The new Biker’s Choice Lowering Kit for Harley-Davidson touring bikes is the most economical way to attain a lower seat height.

“Most riders who want a lower seat height invest hundreds of dollars in new rear shocks, which is an expensive way to go,” said James Simonelli, brand manager for Twin Power and Biker’s Choice products. “Our lowering kit allows riders to keep their existing shocks and lowers the seat by a full inch.”

“All sizes of riders have asked us for this product, not just short guys and women,” Simonelli continued. “With long distance riders adding pads and touring seats, lots of riders can use that extra inch of confidence.”

The Biker’s Choice kit adjusts the bottom mounting point for the shock. Riders with stock or aftermarket shocks on their 2009 to 2020 Harley-Davidson touring bikes can use the kit. It’s finished in black (P/N 483294) and retails for $94.95.

About Biker’s Choice
For almost 40 years, Biker’s Choice has been the source of great accessories and apparel for the American V-Twin enthusiast. Run by dedicated, life-long bikers who understand the American motorcycle enthusiast. The Biker’s Choice lineup includes great products like cables, handlebars, lowering kits, levers, mirrors and over 2,000 products.

Hey,

It’s a strange day in Paradise. I voted yesterday. You’ll see some strange shit about voting in the news. I also spoke to a VA nurse. She wanted me to haul ass back to the hospital. Every time you speak to someone in the medical profession you get a different story. I’m adapting to be the primary care specialist. Call me Dr. Ming Ball.

In each case it’s up to me to inform the nurse or the Doctor of the findings, conclusions, recommendation and how the hell I’m feeling. Actually, we are the best doctors during our diagnosis. You are Dr. Self and you can read your reactions, symptons and status better than any specialist. Use the Doctors and nurses as your research team. Keep asking questions until you receive the correct answers. Enough of that bullshit.

 My grandson Frank Ball Jr. rode over yesterday. He came blasting into the Bikernet Headquarters on the other Spitfire FXR I built pro-street style. Whenever Frankie shows up, we always end up working on his bike.

He’s a very talented nut. His art is expanding and becoming more detailed every week. I’m trying to get him to paint on canvas.

You’ll see in the news a pitch from the MRF to sign up new members. I’ve always supported the MRF because they have worked tirelessly for decades to maintain our freedoms. There’s been competition with the AMA, NCOM and the MIC. I always felt the MRF was the most pure freedom fighting group. They are supported by and support the state rights groups. They aren’t connected to law firms or overseas manufacturers. They are simply freedom fighter devoted to street motorcyclists rights.

Everyone should join the MRF, even members of the AMA and members of the MIC. The industry would be better off. For a longtime we tried to work with the industry guys and shops, but Industry guys thought they were covered by the MIC. That’s not the case. Anyway, it’s good to be a member, if only to stay abreast of the challenges our industry faces. I could go on a major rant about what the MRF membership has done to keep you free, less harassed, and able to work on and build bikes, but it would take me a week. Just join and tell ‘em Bandit sent you.

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

REPORT FROM THE BAY AREA IN CALIFORNIA–What’s up, Dude?

Well, I just returned this morning from a work project in Martinez, California and wanted to share my observations from a difficult environment there. Sad state of affairs there as a major refiner decided to shut down the facility and lay off hundreds of workers across the U.S. This site specifically had workers walking around with the knowledge that October 30th is their final day, the layoffs to number in the hundreds.

My company was commissioned to help with the shutdown of processing units and cleaning them for eventual demo. I was not looking forward to this job as I was sure this “lefty” state would be a full on two-week battle with negative outlooks and dreary workers…I was wrong.

For the most part the operations team was very laid back and cool, each operator knowledgeable about their equipment and offering to help when needed. Unlike most of the jobs I attend, the timeline was much more relaxed, as we weren’t battling the ever-imposing “Start-Up” date that’s the usual moving target at most turnarounds.

Each guy had their own story and I did my best to listen whenever one wanted to talk as we were there to clean their units for a basic mothball shutdown. Even as these guys faced their last days working for this giant corporation, they were overall very optimistic and seemed to have good spirits. I’d ask them what their plans were now and most have no clue. “I guess I can work at Wal Mart as a freaking greeter,” seemed to be a consistent plan. The range of backgrounds and stories was incredible, some less than 2 years from retirement, some as young as having 2 years experience. It was surreal.

California people are funny to me, some seem in such a hurry, but for what? They look at you strange when you greet them with any salutation like “good morning”, or “how are you?”

New Yorkers hardly look at you, if they make eye contact at all, as if you’ve offended them, but Cali folks just seem surprised you are even taking to them. The media constantly throws all the negative shots about violence and unrest, but I didn’t see any of that either. I even flew my wife out for a few days, and we visited San Francisco and Oakland. Arlen’s shop showroom was closed to the public and looked to be in a transition stage…sad.

The Pier 39 crowd was a little light from my memory of past visits, maybe due to the fact you have to wear a mask everywhere. Even running through the park I noticed people exercising wearing a mask…you’re outside for Christ Sakes, what in the hell is the mask for outside on a run?!!!

There were a lot less bikes than I would’ve imagined. It seems I see more bikers in Texas than Cali, which seemed odd with the weather. Maybe it was due to the fires and the irritation to their sensitive throats, I’m not sure.

Overall the trip was an encouragement into the resolve of the American people and even in the most pessimistic times, they seemed to be in good spirits and ready for the next adventure.

One thing was unanimous, they all seemed to envy the fact I live in Texas! I told them we are full, but Louisiana and Oklahoma have plenty of room for them, LOL! I’m back home in Houston today and can’t wait to take “The Rainmaker” for a ride, as I’m sure we could use it. Talk to you soon.

–Johnny Humble
Factory Research Specialists
Bikernet.com™

Photos at Born Free from Sam Burns

SADDLEMEN SEAT OF THE WEEK–1997-2007 FLHR, FLHX Heated Roadsofa™ CF Seat

The Roadsofa™ is crafted specifically for riders that love lay down 500+ miles of the open road in a day. It is the ultimate long-distance touring seat for Harley-Davidson touring models. Standard features include rider and passenger Gelcore™ Technology, a split-cushion lumbar area designed to sit you into the Gelcore™ instead of hammocking your body onto the cover like most OEM and aftermarket seats on the market.

Upgrade options include driver’s backrest, extended reach profiles for the taller rider that needs that extra room, rider and passenger heated options, trunk pad covers, and more.

Our Gelcore™ Technology (explained) is a guarded company secret that no other manufacturer can duplicate. Don’t be fooled by other companies foam only, air and gel stories. Our Gelcore™ is formulated and manufactured in house and is engineered to dampen, divert, and deflect energy through a mechanical process resulting in a smooth, therapeutic ride.

• Designed and made in the U.S.A.

• SaddleGel™ in front and rear reduces tailbone pressure and increases circulation and comfort for both driver and passenger.

• Our tall lumbar support and wide driver saddle-support the back and legs for superior comfort, while the streamlined nose improves the rider’s reach to the ground.

• The refined split-cushion design separates the seating surface from the lumbar support, reducing tailbone and back pressure from maximum long-range comfort.

• Every cover is constructed with contrasting carbon-fiber weave and Original Saddlehyde™ for that show-stopping look.

• Hi/low seat heaters provide warmth, comfort, and the convenience that today’s riders demand. (Available on some models)

• Matching passenger backrest / Tour-Pak pad cover completes the custom look. (Sold Separately)(for models that require)

• Models are available with a built-in backrest that eliminate additional brackets that mount to the fender. (Does not accommodate Saddlemen or H-D fender-mounted Backrest)

Brand Fitment: Harley-Davidson
Model Fitment: FLHR, FLHX (TOURING MODELS)
Year Fitment: 1997-2007

–Saddlemen Team

2020 BIKETOBERFEST REPORT–If you want to know what is going on in Daytona and Biketoberfest suggest checking out Cochise Chops Magazine.

I rode up to Daytona yesterday to see Todd from Klock Werks.

People setting up here and there, Main Street quiet, should pick up some next couple of days.

I am going to Tropical Tattoo on Thursday and not sure what else yet.

There will be a lot going on at places like Destination Daytona and the Bars and Campgrounds outside of Daytona.

–Rogue

Massachusetts Motorcycle Association–Annual Meeting
Election Results

Announced via email to active members in good standing of your Massachusetts Motorcycle Association, an annual meeting was held on October 7, 2020 at 7PM using an online virtual meeting platform. In addition to the Board of Directors, several long-time and new members also participated in a review of the current State of the MMA’s business and the election of officers.

Reelected as Secretary was Diane Alba who has served in this capacity for 2 terms. Diane has provided an efficiency in the operation of the corporate operation of the association which has proven invaluable during a period of restructuring and growth.

Also reelected as Motorcycle Riders Foundation State Representative was Doc D’Errico, MMA Chairman. Your Massachusetts Motorcycle Association is a founding Sustaining State Motorcyclists’ Rights organization of the MRF. Appointed annually to the MRF, the MRF State Representative is not a Board Position, rather an advisor to the Board as well as to the membership of the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association. Doc also serves as the MRF’s Director of the State Representatives Program and has been the MRF State Representative for the past 10 years.

Reappointed as Ex-Officio are Dave Condon and Kevin Griffin, both past Chairmen of the MMA, and John Pecora, a long-tenured Board Member who continues to support the MMA in various capacities since his retirement from the Board.

We thank all who attended, including those members who provided valuable insight and suggestions during the meeting, and especially Diane, Doc, Dave, Kevin, and John for their continued dedication to the Association and our members.

For more information, please contact chairman@MassMotorcycle.org

CALIFORNIA ALERT–My family and my company are leaving California.

It’s heartbreaking.

My parents moved to California four decades ago. I grew up here. For 33 of the 36 years I’ve spent on this planet, I’ve lived here.

I was born at St. Joseph’s in Burbank; I attended elementary school at Edison Elementary; I went to college at UCLA. I co-founded a major media company here, with 75 employees in Los Angeles. I met my wife here; all three of my kids are native Californians.

How are socialists deluding a whole generation?

This is the most beautiful state in the country. The climate is incredible. The scenery is amazing. The people are generally warm, and there’s an enormous amount to do.

And we’re leaving.

We’re leaving because all the benefits of California have steadily eroded—and then suddenly collapsed. Meanwhile, all the costs of California have steadily increased—and then suddenly skyrocketed.

It can be difficult to spot the incremental encroachment of a terrible disease, but once the final ravages set in, it becomes obvious that the illness is fatal. So, too, with California, where bad governance has turned a would-be paradise into a burgeoning dystopia.

When my family moved to North Hollywood, I was 11. We lived in a safe, clean suburb. Yes, Los Angeles had serious crime and homelessness problems, but those were problems relegated to pockets of the city—problems that, with good governance, we thought could eventually be healed. Instead, the government allowed those problems to metastasize.

As of 2011, Los Angeles County counted less than 40,000 homeless; as of 2020, that number had skyrocketed to 66,000. Suburban areas have become the sites of homeless encampments. Nearly every city underpass hosts a tent city; the city, in its kindness, has put out port-a-potties to reduce the possibility of COVID-19 spread.

Police are forbidden in most cases from either moving transients or even moving their garbage. Nearly every public space in Los Angeles has become a repository for open waste, needles, and trash. The most beautiful areas of Los Angeles, from Santa Monica beach to my suburb, have become wrecks.

My children have personally witnessed drug use, public urination, and public nudity. Looters were allowed free reign in the middle of the city during the Black Lives Matter riots; Rodeo Drive was closed at 1 p.m., and citizens were curfewed at 6 p.m.

To combat these trends, local and state governments have gamed the statistics, reclassifying offenses and letting prisoners go free. Meanwhile, the police have become targets for public ire. In July, the city of Los Angeles slashed police funding, cutting the force to its lowest levels in over a decade.

At the same time, taxes have risen. California’s top marginal income tax rate is now 13.3%; legislators want to raise it to 16.8%. California is also home to a 7.25% sales tax, a 50-cent gas tax, and a bevy of other taxes that drain the wallet and burden business.

California has the worst regulatory climate in America, according to CEO Magazine’s survey of 650 CEOs. The public-sector unions essentially make public policy, running up the debt while providing fewer and fewer actual services.

California’s public education system is a massive failure, and even its once-great colleges are now burdened by the stupidities of political correctness, including an unwillingness to use standardized testing.

And still, the state Legislature is dominated by Democrats. California is not on a trajectory toward recovery; it is on a trajectory toward oblivion. Taxpayers are moving out—now including my family and my company. In 2019, before the pandemic and the widespread rioting and looting, outmigration jumped 38%, rising for the seventh straight year. That number will increase again this year.

I want my kids to grow up safe. I want them to grow up in a community with a future, with more freedom and safety than I grew up with. California makes that impossible. So, goodbye, Golden State. Thanks for the memories.

–2020 CREATORS.COM

GMA #1 choice in Custom FWD Controls–The latest version of GMA’s award winning forward controls incorporates noteworthy modifications targeting specific customer requests. Mounting brackets have been completely reshaped from earlier models providing a lower profile and unique, super clean appearance. Additionally, control kits Part # GMA-FC-100 & GMA-FC-200 now feature a splined shift shaft and shift shaft arm with pinch bolt for plenty of indexing options.

The shaft is also larger in diameter and supported by an oil impregnated bronze bushing pressed into the left side mounting bracket. They’ve also fit an adjustable actuating rod and clevis design for the rear brake pedal, while retaining the adjustable indexing foot lever. A nice touch to get both the brake and shifter levers right where you want them.

The new controls will fit your standard OEM (3) hole left side and (2) hole right side FX and early FL style frames. GMA calls out 1986-1999, but they will fit earlier models. 70’s Shovelhead applications require a modified voltage regular mount. Manufactured 100% in the USA the high tech controls provide the ultimate in form, feel and function.

GMA controls are available with ROUND or FLAT pegs, and finished in show chrome, gloss black or polished. GMA is a member of the Belt Drives LTD., family of companies. For complete details visit the BDL/GMA site at www.beltdrives.com

BARN FIND OF THE WEEK FROM PRISM SUPPLY–
1952 Harley-Davidson FL Hydra Glide

Posted by Jake Hindes

It’s no secret that Jake Hindes, co-founder of Prism Supply, is into vintage Harley-Davidson motorcycles. If the fact that he and his brother built a company centralized around the niche isn’t enough, proof can also be found in his current and past personal collection. From survivor ’60s choppers to fully-custom show bikes, he’s no stranger to the brand from Milwaukee. But, there is one box he’s yet to check.

During a recent trip to Concord, North Carolina to look at a motorcycle for sale, Jake heard the seller casually mention another “pile of rust” in passing that was stored nearby. An inexperienced buyer would likely ignore the comment for fear of a hopeless money pit. However, Jake knew better than to leave any stone unturned and decided to inquire. 

A few cell phone photos later, Jake saw enough to know there was something special about the rusty motorcycle and wanted to keep digging. But, the seller wasn’t ready to treat the sale seriously, so they let a few months pass and stayed in touch.
 
“Today’s your lucky day,” read a text Jake received from the seller one day in early summer. The seller was ready to talk and soon after, Jake was en route back to Concord.

The “pile of rust” turned out to be a one-owner 1952 Harley-Davidson FL Hydra Glide sporting the paint color Bronco Bronze Metallic, which was only offered in ’52. Those two facts alone put the motorcycle in a rare category, but upon closer inspection, Jake realized there was something else that made it stand out. 

Underneath the rust were all-original components. From the bolts holding everything together to the engine seals, nothing on the motorcycle had been touched. Come to find out, the last time the bike was fired up was back in 1994 when the original owner used the Panhead to commute to work at Freightliner here in Charlotte, the same city in which the bike was purchased from a local Harley-Davidson dealership. Even the paper Freightliner parking pass remains in the front windscreen to this day.

This was a rare find indeed that Jake was able to purchase and bring to its new home at Prism Supply. Now, the bike will stay in the Queen City where it was first sold over half a century ago.

As for Jake, he can finally check that last box off his list and officially add the elusive barn find as a notch in his belt. And as for the Panhead, it’s currently collecting dust as office decoration. But, there are big plans for the future of this motorcycle. 

“I want to do a complete mechanical restoration on the bike. Visually, it’s important that nothing changes. You won’t find a Prism Supply petcock or taillight on this thing, it’s going to maintain the original aesthetic that Harley intended,” Jake said as he explained his intentions for the bike’s next chapter. 

–Prism Supply Co.

BIKER’S CHOICE IS BACK–Biker’s Choice adds Lift Kits to its Lineup for Harley-Davidson Tri Glide and Freewheeler Models

Fort Worth TX – Biker’s Choice line of parts for Harley-Davidson Tri Glide and Freewheeler trikes now includes a lift kit, one of the products most requested by H-D trike owners.

“These lift kits allow you to easily raise the rear of the trike by 1.5 inches,” said James Simonelli, brand manager for Twin Power and Biker’s Choice products. “The greater height reduces the chance of scratching or scraping the bikes exhaust.” Many trike owners rave about the improved handling and steering of their vehicle after installing lifts on their bike.

The Biker’s Choice Lift Kits feature durable gloss black powdercoat finish and are sold in pairs. They are proudly made in the United States. There are two versions, P/N 601804 (fits trike models from 2017 to 2020), P/N 601805 (fits trikes from 2009 to 2016).. Both versions retail for $173.95 and are available immediately.

Biker’s Choice products are distributed exclusively in the United States by Tucker Powersports. See your local Tucker V-Twin dealer for more info about Biker’s Choice products.

THE EXCLUSIVE HANDCRAFTED LANGEN TWO STROKE MOTORCYCLE GETS OFF TO A SMOKING START FOLLOWING ITS PUBLIC DEBUT–After a decade as the Chief Design Engineer at acclaimed CCM Motorcycles, where he created a number of ground breaking motorcycles, in 2019 Christofer Ratcliffe (a.k.a. Langen), took the bold decision to break the shackles of a larger company and establish his own British motorcycle brand with some original and innovative new motorcycles.

NEWS FROM THE TWISTED ROAD–
Should you rent or buy a motorcycle? Tips on how to decide.

Until recently, the question of whether to rent a motorcycle or buy one was never much of an option. You see, we all agree on one thing: we all wish we had one more bike. But i’s only recently that renting a motorcycle has become a reality. And it couldn’t have come at a better time. Indian is launching flat-track inspired motos, while Ducati is focusing on the hipster crowd. Harley-Davidson is trying to win back younger riders with their LiveWire electric motorcycle, just as BMW is about to launch a cruiser. We all feel like the proverbial kid in a candy store—excited to be here but paralyzed by choice.

Group of riders
What should we do?

Well, finally it’s easy—and we have prepared our own rent or buy a motorcycle quiz to see which one is best for you. For years the “rent or buy” decision was an option available everywhere except the moto community. Consumers weighed whether they should buy or lease a car, while business owners decided whether they should rent or purchase real estate. Even hiring decisions (full time or temp) are lease or buy propositions. Only recently can we use the same analysis when deciding which bike we’ll ride next. BMW, Indian, and Hertz are all launching traditional motorcycle rental locations while Twisted Road has introduced peer-to-peer motorcycle rental in the US.

With additional options, there are three primary considerations

1. Total cost of ownership

2. Type of preferred riding

3. Lifestyle

Cost

In almost every situation, renting a motorcycle is less expensive than owning one. For example, a new Harley-Davidson Fat Bob retails for $19K, or $372 a month. Once insurance and maintenance are considered, the cost can approach $500 monthly. Renting a new bike is considerably less, and can average $100-$125 per day.

Now you’re probably thinking “If I ride my bike 5 days a month, it’s better to buy, right?” Not necessarily. First, you need to truly understand how often you will ride. Are you really going to ride 5 days a month, every single month of the year? I live in Chicago, where we’re lucky to get six good riding months annually. Given the reduced season, I would need to ride 10 days every month during the season to offset the months without riding while my bike is hibernating.

On the other hand, some regions are made for year-round riding. For example, not only can you ride year round (and rent a motorcycle) in Los Angeles, but you can also lane split. In San Francisco, you’ll see dedicated motorcycle parking on the street due to the sheer volume of bikes. In these climates, many people commute on their motos. It’s a rider’s dream.

Mountain Ride
Type of riding

Motorcycle rental options can be a little limiting. Many don’t offer trikes or scooters, and none of them allow for off-road riding. If you love to ride a dirt bike, or need to take your BMW 1200 GSA on an off-road adventure, consider buying. But if you will be on two wheels, on the pavement, there are often motorcycles available that will meet your needs.

In addition, maybe you just want a Vespa to take shorter trips, or a Slingshot to “see and be seen”. All fun toys, but in these cases, rental options are more limited. If you have the space in the garage, it may be time to buy.

Twisted Road Motorcycle
Lifestyle

Do you crave variety? Do you drool at motorcycle shows and yearn for the day when you can afford the latest innovation? Do you travel frequently and always mutter the same six words (“I wish I had my bike”?) If so, rental is likely the best option.

There are some riders who have the benefit of additional space and income. These riders can afford to own multiple bikes – a café racer to zip around town, and a touring bike for longer riders. An adventure ride for off-roading, and even a track bike to hone their skills. If you have the resources, by all means purchase another bike. Or two. Or three.

In addition, if you love to wrench, or evolve your skills with some new stunts, or if you enjoy customizing your pride and joy so it stands out at Sturgis, then go to your local dealer and buy a bike. Rentals won’t give you what you need to fill your lifestyle needs.

While you are deciding, make sure you take the quiz. It will give you some direction as to whether renting or buying is right for you. But whatever the decision, make sure you do one thing: just ride.

BY AUSTIN ROTHBARD

KODLIN USA Extends Lowering Kit Program–

More news from Kodlin USA about the company’s award-winning lowering kit for 2018 and up single shock M-8 Softails such as the FLHC/FLHCS Heritage Classic, FXBR/FXBRS Breakout, FLFB/FLFBS Fat Boy models, FLSB Sport Glides, FXBS/FXFB Fat Bob, FLDE Deluxe and FXDR 114.

The kit lowers the bike by up to 40 mm and does not require shortening of the threaded rod or sending in of the suspension for final assembly. The company is reporting excellent initial sales for the kit, but though it is a genuinely reversible ‘plug and play’ install that includes pre-installed bearings, the company says some dealers are nonetheless reporting issues working on the shock to get to the bolt to install the Kodlin part.

There is a tool available from Motion Pro that gets the job done, but Kodlin has also now developed what it describes as a “simple but extremely effective” shock/spring compression tool of its own for M-8 Softail models.

In additional news, a new version of the kit is now also available for M-8 Softails such as the Street Bob, Slim, Standard etc. that is without the pre-load adjuster knob.

KODLIN MOTORCYCLES & PARTS
www.kodlin.com
www.KodlinUSA.com

Magnesium wheel pioneer passes.
–Roberto Marchesini, 1941-2020

The other day I had to write off another friend from the old days, Roberto Marchesini. He was not a racer or a team manager, but in the paddocks of any Grand Prix he was one of the most popular name among racers, technicians, and team managers for the very simple reason that Roberto can be regarded as a pioneer of cast magnesium motorcycle wheels and the immensely dedicated promoter of their constant evolution to ever higher levels of efficiency and safety.

No doubt that Marchesini was very popular with racers and team managers, but his highly focused technical mind did not prevent him from having an extrovert personality and very friendly manners—spiced up by his very positive humor.

He was born in Bologna in 1941 and after he graduated from the technical high school, in 1960 he went to work at the local Campagnolo light metals foundry. Old genius Tullio Campagnolo not only was the first to conceive and realize a multi-speed group and related shifter for bicycles, but he also was a great visionary who immediately perceived the potential of many new technologies. Roberto soon became one of the chief technicians and was placed at the head of the department that would develop the casting technologies needed to manufacture car and motorcycle wheels. And make them the lightest and the strongest possible.

Magnesium motorcycle wheels had already been produced, but were heavier than the characteristics of magnesium would allow, and they also looked clumsy. Roberto learned how to optimize air temperature and humidity in the casting area to prevent all possible flaws in the wheel castings. Campagnolo magnesium motorcycle wheels were a huge success. Roberto soon reached a top position at Campagnolo, but he knew he had to aim higher.

He left and went to Marvic and helped the then-small company to become a major player in high-performance magnesium motorcycle wheels. From there, in 1988, Roberto took over a small light-alloys foundry and started his own firm, Marchesini Wheels. He worked with enormous dedication and creativity, progressively evolving the cast magnesium wheels to a higher stage of technology: forged magnesium wheels, even lighter and stronger.

Being also a practical man, he adapted the technological innovations achieved to create forged aluminum wheels more cheaply and thus reaching a much vaster audience. Around the year 2000, Marchesini Wheels was acquired by the Brembo Group, and this opened new perspectives of technological refinement….

By Bruno dePrato
Read the whole story on Cycle World

NEW FROM S&S–NEW – 540 Torque Cam for Big Bore M8 Models

Big horsepower numbers are the status symbol of a performance engine, but more often than not, the bolstered torque spec is what you really feel when riding it. This is particularly relevant for the heavy touring machines as it’s torque that rockets you onto the highway and it’s definitely torque that lets you effortlessly push a loaded bagger around slower traffic.

With that in mind, S&S Cycle created the 540 cam for M8 powered bikes. The 540 is designed to work with their 124” and 128” big bore kits and produce stump pulling torque down low in the RPM range as well as maintain respectable horsepower numbers.

Available in gear or chain drive and in a complete cam chest kit with pump, plate, pushrods and tappets. Check out their dyno charts for the hard numbers (130+ lb ft and on a conservitive 124” build!) and for more info hit up https://www.sscycle.com/feature/valve-train/m8-valve-train

Big Bore M8’s are the new black, so naturally we are focused on making them better! We recognize (and encourage!) torque is often more important than HP and built a cam specifically to extract as much grunt out of a 124/128 big bore M8 as possible. Hit me up if you need a sample for editorial ~ DZ

–David Zemla VP – Marketing
S&S® Cycle, Inc.
14025 County Highway G, Viola, WI 54664
Office 608.627.0358
Email dzemla@sscycle.com

ALERT FOR BLUE WATER VETERANS–VA’s collaboration with NARA digitizes Vietnam-era deck logs

The Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019 gave VA an opportunity to consider new and previously submitted Blue Water Navy claims. Now, thanks to collaboration with the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), VA and NARA are helping to determine ship locations and to digitize more than 1,800 vessels’ deck logs.

The data contained in these ships’ deck logs is critical in determining qualifying ship locations in accordance with the law. For the first time, VA will have each of these ships mapped with precision, providing a comprehensive view of their locations.

VA estimates that there are between 420,000 and 560,000 Vietnam-era Veterans who may be considered Blue Water Navy Veterans. The law also extends benefits to survivors and dependents of those Veterans with confirmed service and whose claims would have been granted as a result of the new law.

What Veterans need to know

NARA’s and VA’s collaboration has already assisted in granting more than 22,524 claims since Jan. 1, 2020. The effort digitized more than 29 million images from U.S. Navy and Coast Guard deck logs. It has also provided data, such as ship name, date and coordinates to feed an internal claims-related technical processing system that identifies the vessels that may have traveled within the offshore waters of the Republic of Vietnam. This proactive approach ensures that Rating Veterans Service Representatives have the evidence needed to render a decision the first time a case is reviewed.

This effort has resulted in faster service for Veterans and reduced the need for physical handling of archival records which preserves our nation’s historical documents. NARA is in the process of redacting the images to make them publicly accessible on the National Archive’s website.

How to file a claim

VA works with Veteran Service Organizations (VSO) and other partners to ensure Veterans and survivors are aware of the changes and know how to determine eligibility for disability compensation or Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) when filing a claim.

If Veterans, survivors or dependents have previously filed and were denied a claim, they can file a supplemental claim. VA encourages Veterans to work with an approved claims representative or VSO to determine if they qualify.

To learn more, please visit https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/blue-water-navy.asp.

Daniel Kuester and Meghan Badame contributed to this blog. Kuester is a Navy Veteran and a Public Affairs Specialist for VBA’s Office of Strategic Engagement. Badame is a Communications Specialist with VBA’s Media Relations team.

[page break]

MRF MEMBERSHIP DRIVE–
Your Happy Hour Challenge for this afternoon, should you choose to accept it…

I think we still need to come up with a good catchphrase / tagline for MRF’s new membership promotion.

Some of the BOD liked “One For The Road”, but I’m not crazy about that one because of the alcohol connotations.

Some BOD members liked “Ride With The Leaders”, which is a fine, trademarked tagline for MRF, but it doesn’t really connect to this membership campaign directly.

Our target audience for this particular promotion is our existing membership, the ‘true believers’ in the MRF. We are asking each of them to sign up at least one new MRF member.

Part of the campaign will be to encourage existing members to carry an MRF application with them at all times so that they’ll be prepared to sign someone up when the opportunity arises. Another advantage to getting members to carry an app with them is that the app will serve as a constant reminder for our members to talk to friends, family, acquaintances, people they run into at biker events or gas stations, or complete strangers about joining the MRF.

In Phase One of this promotion, each of our current members will receive three paper applications in the mail from us, along with a letter from me explaining the campaign and how important it is for them – our members – to help us grow. The focus will be on the old “Each One Reach One” or “Each One Teach One” theme, but we obviously want our members to sign up more than one new member over time. Initially we just want to challenge them with signing up at least one new member.

My latest tagline idea, which I’m still not sold on but I think is headed in the right direction, is:

Sign Up One – Git ‘Er Done
Sign up Two – Good For You!
Sign Up Three –Keep Us Free

Get those Happy Hour brains of you and your friends working and see what you come up with!

Also:

Some ideas for signing up new members. Please add to this list if you can!

Our regular recruiters, i.e. MRF State Reps / Asst. State Reps, have historically set up an MRF membership table at biker events, swap meets, etc. Still a very good tactic. Also, attending SMRO meetings or meetings of other groups, talking about MRF and recruiting new members. If the State Rep / Asst. State Rep is a regular at Confederation meetings, another great opportunity.

The 50/50: I like Jennifer Dewitz’s idea of selling 50/50 tickets, then picking someone to win an MRF membership using the proceeds.

The Bar: The old, tried and true ‘get ‘em while they’re vulnerable’ approach. Some of the best recruiters I’ve ever known would – nicely – pester people at the bar who would eventually sign up just to get them to stop talking about ABATE or the MRF!

On The Road: Carry those applications with you! The next time you strike up a conversation with another biker at a gas station or a restaurant, be ready to recruit them. Several years ago, one of my old friends signed up more than 50 people for ABATE of Colorado using this technique.

Membership Dinner Party: Invite three or four (or more) non-member singles/couples over for dinner and – if you’re so inclined – drinks and fun afterwards. Tell them you want to talk about the MRF when you invite them, but don’t beat them over the head with it. Have your MRF ‘talking points’ on hand to help get the message across. You could team up with another person or couple who are current MRF members. Have them join the party and help you – and themselves – to recruit the new members. Who knows, these Membership Dinner Parties could get to be a regular thing!

Keep a Contact Calendar: Keep track of how many people you talk to in a week or a month about joining the MRF. Set a personal goal, something like “I’ll talk to at least one person each week about joining the MRF.” This would be a great way for our current members to ‘hone their recruiting chops’. Practice makes perfect!

Local SMRO Group Challenge: Get your local SMRO chapter/region/district to set a goal of having 10% of the local membership as individual/couple MRF members. Encourage other chapters/districts/regions to follow suit.

Christmas / Birthday Present: What better present for the discerning biker than a membership in the MRF!

I’ve decided to copy the MRF BOD and some top recruiters on this email.

Brainstorming works!!!

–Mark Buckner

Powerhouse Brands – Performance Machine, Progressive Suspension and Burly Brand focused on the future with their new state of the art facility.

La Palma, CA – October 7, 2020 – Powerhouse Brands, comprised of Performance Machine, Progressive Suspension and Burly Brand will move its operations from La Palma, California to a new, state of the art facility in Cerritos, California.

The move to the new company headquarters will support a 44% increase in the number of employees and will allow for the addition of a full second shift.

“It’s a short ride from La Palma to Cerritos, but it will have a huge impact on Performance Machine, Progressive Suspension and Burly Brand,” said company CEO and President Chris Lindstrom. “Our new facility presents an opportunity for us to re-engineer our design, manufacturing and distribution processes which will result in improved efficiency and increased production capacity. This will be a big win for our customers in improved delivery time”

The new facility offers several features that improve design, testing, production, shipping and employee experience.

Quality Lab size increased by 27% with improved testing capabilities

New research and design labs and an engineering lab that is 20% larger than current facility

Enhanced testing capabilities with In-house wheel testing, brake system testing and In-house suspension testing
In-house polishing department to ensure high quality product finishes

In-house assembly and packaging using the latest technology and automation

Warehouse space increased by 70% to provide better order fill rate

Updated offices to support employee collaboration
Automatic touchless doors in main paths of employee travel

“With demand surging in 2020, we are preparing for continued growth in the custom motorcycle business,” Lindstrom continued. ” Dealers are seeing a tremendous increase in the sales of used motorcycles. That is ideal for us as our custom wheels, brake systems, controls, accessories, and suspension products are all great items to purchase to personalized and enhance a rider’s experience.”

The move will begin later this year after the new location is completed by A.R Mays Construction. Powerhouse Brands expects to have the move completed in Q1 2021.

Hubless Motorcycle Revealed–Futuristic electric motorcycle with cool looking innovative hubless wheels. Baxley Moto – computer digital renderings of hubless electric motorcycle concept designed by Shane Baxley. Also check out: Omnidirectional Motorcycle

–from Harvey Tow

NEW TECH FROM LOWBROW–Follow along with Todd as he inspects and repairs a 650 Triumph clutch…

Having a clutch that doesn’t operate is a literal drag. It is also very frustrating…

As usual, Todd knows how to get that Triumph riding like a champ!

In this article (chock full of easy-to-follow, informative photos), he walks you through Triumph clutch inspection and service. Ensure all your power is getting transferred smoothly to the rear wheel!

Even if you don’t own a Triumph, the principles are the same for most motorcycles. Knowledge is power!
READ MORE

PS – If you enjoyed this article, do us a favor…
Please copy the link below and post it on your favorite motorcycle forum or group to help spread Triumph knowledge!

https://www.lowbrowcustoms.com/blogs/motorcycle-how-to-guides/triumph-650-clutch-inspection-service

BIKE QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
“WE RIDE NOT TO ESCAPE LIFE, BUT FOR LIFE TO NOT ESCAPE US.”

Martin Moto Deal of the week: 2013 TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE SE

ENGINE TYPE: AIR-COOLED, DOHC, PARALLEL-TWIN, 360º FIRING INTERVAL. $19,000 invested in this one of a kind street tracker! Previously owned by Martin Moto store owner with many additional upgrades by current owner.

This amazing looking machine looks hot and rides hotter. DO NOT blend in! There’s a lot to list but we’ll give it a try:

Engine has been ported, polished by Bill Himmelsbach
High compression piston kit with hotter cam tuned for torque
Canyon Cycles custom wheels with Avon trail rider tires
Canyon custom rear and front sprockets new DID chain
Galfer Brake kit (front and rear)
Dennis Hyde brake and clutch lines
British Customs exhaust system
ASV adjustable levers
Pro taper handle bars
R and G engine protectors
Suede saddle on a Mule seat cowl
Joker Machine foot pegs
Joker machine rear mirror
Motone vented side covers
Motone shifter
Motone Monza gas cap
Oil temp gauge
New headlight (yellow lens)
Hagon shocks
Custom front fender and paint

Martin Moto
1037 UNGER LANE
BOYERTOWN
PA 19512 (610) 369-3120

TECH DISCOVERY OF THE WEEK—from the Week Magazine.

Scientists in the U.K. have developed a cocktail of enzymes that can break down plastic much more quickly than current methods, a possible game changer for recycling.

Researchers have been seeking to harness the natural digestive qualities of enzymes since the discover of plastic-eating bacteria at a Japanese landfill in 2016.

The new super enzyme is a combination of PETase-an enzyme previously shown to break down plastic-and another enzyme called MHETase.

When these are stitched together, the scientists found, the speed of the breakdown increased sixfold. The process leaves behind the building blocks of plastic, which can be used over and over again.

–The Week Magazine

Electric motorcycles are the future: ‘American Chopper’ star–Harley Davidson’s first electric motorcycle dubbed the Livewire is viewed by many in the motorcycle industry as a dud.

But that doesn’t mean electric motorcycles are consigned to being dead on arrival simply because the industry Goliath fell flat on its face. In fact, with so much focus on how to prevent climate change — and considering advancements in battery technology — it’s likely electric motorcycles begin to flood the market over the next decade.

“It has a lot of great benefits. The biggest thing with that is technology has now caught up to the idea which is great. So, these things go further and faster and they work better and don’t break down. Even some of the cheaper bikes out there are holding up and doing what they are supposed to do which is get you basically from point A to point B without leaving you stranded. And the emissions, there are none,” explained “American Chopper” star and CEO of Paul Jr Designs, Paul Teutul Jr. on Yahoo Finance’s The First Trade.

Harley’s Livewire debuted in October 2019 after at least five years in development under former CEO Matthew Levatich. It was a key part of Harley’s plan to release 100 new “high impact” bikes by 2027 in an effort to attract new riders — several of the bikes were electric and smaller, targeting urban millennials. The folks at Harley were also keen on fending off surging upstart electric bike maker Zero Motorcycles.

Livewire boasted impressive specs out of the gate as Harley tried to set the bar for the industry, including 105 horsepower, but also a hefty price tag of nearly $30,000 and limited range. Both of those negatives hampered early demand for the product. Consumers didn’t have much time to order the bike, however. Harley quickly halted production and delivery of the Livewire citing an undisclosed build issue.

The bike has since returned to being available at roughly $30,000. Harley told Yahoo Finance it remains committed to the Livewire.

To be sure, Teutul’s comments may come as a surprise to the cycling faithful.

–Brian Sozzi
Yahoo Finance

MORE ON THE INK MASTER HAL ROBINSON–Harold (Hal) Robinson was the originator of a detailed caricature of a town or city with his pen and ink drawings of Seal Beach and Avalon. Both were drawn in the early ‘70s.

Each drawing took six hundred hours apiece from beginning to completion. Robinson is remembered by many as a master at mesmerizing his viewer with his ability to draw with a flourish as he lived each swirl and turn, pen and inked line.

One can recognize many of his drawings by its quasi psychodelic, euphoric, 3-D effect. Unexpected items to look for are hidden pictures, names of good friends, wives, children, and relatives, funny sayings and words, flies, trash, flying objects, chaos, etc. People love all the detail in his work and there are always things you haven’t seen the first time, or the second, and each time after that.

People have tried to copy Robinson’s (H. Hal, Harold) style and have even copied his signed name from his drawings to look like his original signature. Hal’s original work can be viewed on halrobinsondesigns.com. and bikernet.com His work can also be found on Instagram and Facebook.

Legislative Agenda set during Meeting of the Minds 2020

One of the most important events at Meeting of the Minds is the legislative strategy session. Each year, during this session, state motorcycle rights groups develop the federal legislative priorities for the following year. Items are discussed, debated and eventually voted on, with each Sustaining State Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization (SSMRO) having a voice and a vote. Legislative priorities are placed in one of three categories, “High,” “Medium” and “Monitor”. These priorities will serve as a roadmap, for the Motorcycle Riders Foundation Washington D.C. team, as we focus on 2021.

While you can see the full detailed list of priorities in the next American Bikers’ Journal, below is brief preview of the “High” priority items approved during the session.

Renewable Fuels: Advocate for targeted changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).
Autonomous Vehicles: Advocate and monitor any legislation or regulations related to motorcycles concerning connected and autonomous vehicles.

Definition of a Motorcycle: Educate policymakers and advocate for change to current definition, that better reflects the current two- and three-wheel motorcycle landscape.

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.

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 that impact motorcyclists in the Highway Bill, now set to expire in 2021.

Remember, as part of your MRF membership you receive an issue of each American Bikers’ Journal (ABJ). Not a Member of MRF? Click here and join today! The next ABJ is where you will find more details on these specific priorities, as well as the list of over a dozen other priorities in the “Medium” or “Monitor” categories.

Looks like 2021 will be a busy year!

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–
2018 Harley-Davidson® FLSL – Softail® Softail Slim for $15,995.00

see it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=9491797

This bike is a cool softail slim low stance low mean look

ONLY 17314.00 Miles !!!!!

2018 Industrial gray denim Harley-Davidson SOFTAIL SLIM FLSL

Some of the features/Add-ons on this bike

* H.D. low profile seat
* MX style bars
* Chrome shotgun exhaust
* 103 C.I.
* 6 Speed trans
* Blacked out rear pegs and rider floorboards

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 $15,995.00 at Lifestyle Cycles (714) 490-0155

Legendary Soul Man Sam Moore Celebrates 85th Birthday– Moore Performs Friday, October 16th On ‘Great Performances: GRAMMY Salute To Music Legends®’ on PBS

“Hold On, I’m Comin’” featured during NBA Finals in Michelob ULTRA ‘Worth It’ commercial featuring Los Angeles Lakers starter Anthony Davis, Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler, and more

MIAMI, Fla. – The Legendary Soul Man Sam Moore turns 85, and is celebrated today and this week by many of his colleagues. Moore was initially set to be honored with an all-star tribute concert, but like many other planned events for 2020, the tribute has taken on a decidedly different form. Receiving videos from far and wide, Moore was surprised today through a virtual birthday greeting card and salute coordinated by Florida International University with messages from Jon Bon Jovi, T. Graham Brown, Rita Coolidge, Alice Cooper, Israel Del Toro, Zucchero Fornaciari, Janie Fricke, Lee Greenwood, Deana Martin, The Oak Ridge Boys, Charley Pride, Brenda Russell, Valerie Simpson, Sting, Travis Tritt, and many more! After an invitation-only Zoom gathering Monday evening, select videos will roll out to Moore’s Facebook page as well as his official website, sammoore.net.

Moore, one-half of the award-winning Sam & Dave duo, made famous global R&B hits such as “Soul Man”, “Hold On, I’m Comin’”, “When Something Is Wrong With My Baby”, “I Thank You” and more, and came to be known as ‘Double Dynamite’ for their dynamic performances.

Sam’s Still ‘Having A Ball’

“Hold On, I’m Comin’” was recently selected for Michelob ULTRA’s ‘Worth It’ ad featuring Los Angeles Lakers starter Anthony Davis, Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler, and more, airing extensively during the NBA Finals. Watch the ad here.

Additionally, Moore is set to honor his good friend, the legendary songwriter/producer Isaac Hayes during ‘Great Performances: GRAMMY Salute To Music Legends®’ Friday, October 16th at 9 p.m. ET/PT on PBS (check local listings), pbs.org/gperf, and the PBS Video app. Additional honorees include Chicago, Roberta Flack, Iggy Pop, John Prine, Public Enemy, and more with performances from Philip Bailey, Brandi Carlile, Cynthia Erivo, Chris Isaak, Jason Isbell & Amanda Shires, Cyndi Lauper, Leslie Odom, Jr., and Yola.

Moore has never been one to slow down and has been hard at work readying new projects that will be unveiled in the coming weeks.

Climate at a Glance: Hurricanes

Bullet-Point Summary:

• There has been no increase in hurricanesas the planet has modestly warmed.

•Even the U.N.IPCC agrees, findingno increase in the frequency or severity of hurricanes.

•The United States recently went through its longest period in recorded history without a major hurricane strike.

•The United States recently experienced its fewest total hurricanes in any eight-year period.

•Florida, America’s most hurricane-pronestate, recently underwent its longest period in recorded history without any hurricanes.

Short Summary: Devastating hurricanes occurred long before the invention of SUVs and coal-fired power plants. Real-world hurricane activity shows little or no impact from global warming.

Even the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change 2018 “Interim Report”observes there is “only low confidence for the attribution of any detectable changes in tropical cyclone activity to anthropogenic influences.

”The U.N. observation reflects hurricane and tropical storm data in Figure 1, below U.S. Impacts: Hurricane impacts on the United States are at an all-time low. The United States recently went more than a decade (2005 through 2017) without a major hurricane measuring Category 3 or higher, which is the longest such period in recorded history.

The United States also recently experienced the fewest number of hurricane strikes in any eight-year period (2009 through 2017) in recorded history. Additionally, America’s most vulnerable state, Florida, recently concluded an 11-year period (2005 through 2016) without a landfalling hurricaneof any size—the longest such period in recorded history.

The Gulf of Mexico also recently) benefited from its longest hurricane-free period in recorded history (2013 through 2016). More Wind Shear Negates Warmer Oceans: Whenever a hurricane forms, global warming activists claim modestly warmer global ocean temperatures are allegedly “supercharging” the storms.

However, warm ocean water is just one factor in the formation and intensification of hurricanes. Wind shear inhibits strong storms from forming and rips apart storms that have already formed. Scientists have learned that global warming is likely to cause more wind shear in places where hurricanes form and intensify.

That is one reason why even the U.N. IPCC admits there has been no increase in the frequency or severity of hurricanes. It is misleading to discuss one factor in hurricane formation (warmer oceans) while failing to discuss an equally important factor (wind shear) that diminishes hurricane formation and intensification.

–Heartland Institute

EL WAGGS REVIEWS SAM’S PICKS–Interesting piece. I like the intro about ‘Social Dilemma’. I feel, and it seems you do too, that docu-film is important information that needs to be shared with everyone and anyone who is involved and active in the social media networks.

I have a few ideas and thoughts on your article. I like the way you’re trying to work in the simplicity of the past. I’m looking forward to reading it as it develops.

I wish I’d had the time to read your stuff while I was at the shop office. That’s where my desk-top is and I can write faster and easier.

–El Waggs

J.J. WRITES TO PRESIDENT TRUMP ON A REGULAR BASIS– speaking of Trump are you aware that I have written him probably a thousand overland letters, since he came down the escalator? He’s like a woman. He doesn’t listen. Haha, I have actually told him that.

I should put them in a book called “Useless Letters To President Trump.” I say things to him no one on earth would have the balls to say to him. Wanna hear something funny? I have long sheets of stationery I had printed up with 15 ER etc. covers with my name on them that I sometimes use.

Once I got one mailed back with a staple badly stapled holding the envelope closed and it had a photo of the anthrax dudes in their hazmat suits holding the stationery up for the camera. Said to myself “SOMEONE in that load of bureaucrats likes my letters at least.”

–J.J. Solari
Easyriders Magazine
Author

ANOTHER FXDR FOR SALE— one in Austin (dealer) 1656 miles $16,360. There was one in Florida in the 14″s but link is no longer working.

If you find more funds than you need please feel free to donate to the Sam Burns replenishment fund. Thank you for your support.

–Sam Burns
Somewhere in Texas

There’s another one:

Seller’s description
2019 Harley-Davidson DAVIDSON FXDRS SOFTAIL FXDR 114 is available for sale at G&C Honda of Shreveport.

For more information call or message us now. Our team is here to answer all of your questions and make your buying experience a pleasure.

– Trade-ins Welcome

– Financing Available

THE FUEL INJECTED FLATHEAD– Since I get a lot of questions regarding the heads on the fuel injected Flathead UR motor. I thought it was about time to show you guys how I did them. Making wooden casting patterns from scratch is an extremely time consuming and painful process but well worth it in the end.

This way the heads you make will have a much more old and genuine vibe to them than anything 3D printed or computerized cad programmed mumbo jumbo. These heads are our personal take on KR heads with UL 9 bolt configuration, the heads features a ‘Tom Sifton’ late style KR combustion chamber machined for 2-inch intake valves, .600-inch lift and vertical spark plugs (not angled like on U Models and 45s) And so far this is the only set we made – so this is not a product Vardhalla offers at this moment.

–the Vardhalla Team
https://www.facebook.com/vardhallasweden/

Watch for the whole Vardhalla story on Bikernet in the near future.–bandit

NEW FROM THE MASTER OF LIGHT–David recently returned from his childhood home in Michigan. While there, he completed a piece he had been wanting to paint for some time, “Secret Admirer”.

As David states, “With the cancellation of nearly all shows this year, the extra time has allowed me to approach some projects that have been awaiting my attention. “Secret Admirer” is one such piece. So much of my work being of a historical nature has a built in narrative. Most of my audience has responded to these stories as a parallel modality of appreciation. This work and the pieces in this series are NOT derived from any such things, they are solely based on the visual merits assembled within its composition. For example the shapes of where the light hits the subject create a rhythmic progression to a crescendo at the focal point. And my values (light&darks) are all aligned to build up contrast to magnify that same area. The edges of where the shadow meets the lights are most defined at this same pinnacle of focus.

So in layman’s terms, this painting is based on the inherent beauty of its interplay of shape and values. Most of the finest paintings in the world are. My lovely lady just happens to be in the right place at the right time!
So , I guess we can all secretly admire her now.

“Secret Admirer”
David Uhl 2020

We are offering an exclusive watercolor paper print version of this stunning masterpiece. A total of 74 prints are available in two sizes. Each piece will be hand-signed by David, numbered and accompanied with a Certificate of Authenticity.
** Image size 12×16, $195 unframed ($450 framed). Edition of 30 prints, plus 4 Artist Proofs and 3 Hors d’ Commerce.

** Image size 18×24, $595 unframed ($895 framed). Edition of 30 prints, plus 4 Artist Proofs and 3 Hors d’ Commerce.

The original watercolor, measuring 13×18, is also for sale. Please inquire.

As always, we appreciate your time. Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional information.

You can place your order by return email, or by calling me at 303-913-4840.

Thanks,

–Greg Rhodes
International Sales Director

Uhl Studios
15801 W. Colfax Avenue
Golden, CO 80401
303-913-4840

Uhl Studios Website

AND THAT AIN’T THE END OF IT—Tomorrow we are going to attempt to rescue Jeremiah’s Pan/Shovel from behind his brother’s house. Then we need to hit Cycle Gear. I bought the wrong-sized Lithium battery, returned it without the fasteners. I need to give them back.

I also bought a cheap battery tender. It worked for one battery and died. Need to see if they can help. It was in the cheap bin, no wonder. My CTEK charger is also acting funky.

We put the bottom half of the body on the Salt Torpedo. We may start a handling test this Sunday with Jeremiah at the helm. We just need to make sure it goes straight comfortably, maybe 30 mph.

AHDRA motorcycle drag racing series pre-race report

event: AHDRA’s MTC Engineering Sunshine Nationals

when: October 17-18, 2020

where: Orlando Speed World, Bithlo, Florida, USA

AHDRA Bringing Nitro to Orlando

AHDRA is bringing all-American motorcycle drag racing and the smell and fury of nitro to Florida’s Orlando Speed World with their MTC Engineering Sunshine Nationals on October 17-18.

Click Here to read this drag race report on Bikernet.

JOIN THE CANTINA –  Subscribe Today

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

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

Terminator 2: Judgement Day will probably remain the most famous movie in the franchise, as no matter the efforts put into coming up with something better, no subsequent flick rose to its level. Story aside, what made the movie great was the still young Arnold, his T-800 , and the tools and weapons he used to fight off the bad robot chasing John Connor.

One of the machines used in the movie was a 1991 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy. Thanks to the status of the movie, the motorcycle is considered one of the greatest two-wheelers to ever be captured on film, partly on account of a rather impressive chase scene (see video below for more).

Now, that bike was brand new at the time when T2 came out, so quite impressive. But what if we were to take back a more recent Fat Boy, not stock, but customized, and hand it over to the Terminator? Would it/he love it?

Probably, if the bike in question is this one here. Officially called Brave Guy (not a very cool name, we’ll give you that), it is the result of custom work performed by a German shop that goes by the name Thunderbike.

Made for one of their clients, it uses the regular complement of custom parts, some 30 of them, starting from the wheels and ending with the turn signals.

Up front the bike was changed with the addition of a 21-inch wheel, now tied to a lowered suspension to give it a more aggressive look. The fender that partially covers it is new as well, and so are the handlebars.

At the back the Fat Boy was treated with a new wheel, new fender, and a conversion that leaves very little room between the seat and the fuel tank, giving the entire build a very straight-backed appearance.

Spanning from the front to the back is a Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde exhaust system, but other than that we are not being told what (if any) modifications were made to the engine.

As usual, Thunderbike does not say how much the entire build cost to put together, but we do have a list of parts used, and punching in the numbers reveals a sum somewhere over 8,000 euros ($9,300) – that makes it one of the most expensive the Germans made all year.

 

It was 2013 when we ran into each other at Born Free.

In 2012 I sold Anya the bike I learned to ride on, which was a Yamaha XS350 and I knew she had recently upgraded to a new H-D. I was in the same boat, proud owner of a purple Sportster with a flame seat and chrome junk all over it.

I didn’t care what it looked like, it was mine and I was going to ride it. Anya is a force of energy, kind, humble, and has been riding dirt bikes since the day she could walk. I was gaining my confidence and maxing out at turtle speeds around steep curves but becoming a better rider every day.

We were both fairly new to street riding. Casual conversation turned into a “Girls Weekend” of motorcycle camping in the desert of Borrego Springs. I practiced and got to know my capabilities on the grade that drops into Borrego, when I notice all the BLM land in the area.

We planned a weekend in Oct and set the location to a dry lake bed towards the Salton Sea just past Borrego. Unaware that it might have been illegal, but hey, it’s a town that doesn’t have a stoplight, so what harm could two ladies on motos be?

CLICK HERE to read this on Bikernet.com

Join the Cantina – Subscribe Today

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

Royal Enfield BUILD TRAIN RACE Program Goes Road Racing

Four female riders will prepare Continental GT 650 motorcycles into road racing motorcycles

MILWAUKEE, Wis (October 14, 2020) — Today Royal Enfield North America announced phase two of the BUILD TRAIN RACE (BTR) program seeking out female motorcyclists to customize, train and road race Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 motorcycles in 2021. A group of women will be selected by Royal Enfield for the program through an online video selection process. Women interested in the program must submit a video and respond to a questionnaire at https://bit.ly/30aSOXT to be considered.

“Building upon the success of the flat track BTR program, we decided to carry the momentum into the road racing segment, ” said Breeann Poland, Gloabal Brand Manager – Continental GT platform. “This is a unique opportunity for women interested in road racing and to make a name for themselves on a national level. The participants will have the opportunity to learn from world class racer, Melissa Paris, which is not a chance many people get. The ladies will also be some of the first people to road race the Continental GT 650 platform, so the motorcycling world will be watching.”

Professional Road Racer and BTR flat track participant Melissa Paris has agreed to mentor the women during each phase of the program. She will consult each participant on the development of a Continental GT 650 road race motorcycle, including design and parts selection, provide insight into sponsorship aspect of racing, and provide training on and off track for the four participants.

“When I watch the video submissions I’ll be looking for entries that display the same passion and desire to get into road racing that I had when I first started out,” said road racer and BTR mentor, Melissa Paris. “This program will be such an amazing opportunity and I’m looking forward to working with these female racers who have always dreamed of lining up on a road race grid”.

The participants will be selected by Poland, Paris and accomplished racer and journalist Anne Roberts. In their videos, interested participants will need to display a passion for road racing and answer a series of questions about their background and motorcycling experience. The selected participants will then have several months and a budget to convert a 2020 Continental GT 650 Twin into road racing trim. The ladies will then race in conjunction with a national event once they’ve completed the build and training aspects of the program.

The entry period for consideration in the BUILD TRAIN RACE program starts today and will run through December 1, 2020.

To stay up to date on the riders and their motorcycles, visit BUILDTRAINRACE.com or follow Royal Enfield North America on Facebook and Instagram.

In 2012 I sold Anya the bike I learned to ride on, which was a Yamaha XS350 and I knew she had recently upgraded to a new H-D. I was in the same boat, proud owner of a purple Sportster with a flame seat and chrome junk all over it.

I didn’t care what it looked like, it was mine and I was going to ride it. Anya is a force of energy, kind, humble, and has been riding dirt bikes since the day she could walk. I was gaining my confidence and maxing out at turtle speeds around steep curves but becoming a better rider every day.

We were both fairly new to street riding. Casual conversation turned into a “Girls Weekend” of motorcycle camping in the desert of Borrego Springs. I practiced and got to know my capabilities on the grade that drops into Borrego, when I notice all the BLM land in the area.

We planned a weekend in Oct and set the location to a dry lake bed towards the Salton Sea just past Borrego. Unaware that it might have been illegal, but hey, it’s a town that doesn’t have a stoplight, so what harm could two ladies on motos be?

Excited about the weekend at hand we thought it would be a good idea to unleash a call to the lady riders we were starting to connect with on social media. We’ve seen them but never actually had the opportunity to get to know them in real life. It seemed like the perfect opportunity.

One shitty flyer, one WordPress site and one route map designed by Bill Bryant as a favor. We thought we were ready! We started reaching out to the ladies and asking them about who they were and created Roll Call. We’d tell their stories, how they got into riding, and post a picture of them with their moto. To our surprise, the responses were incredibly relatable.

My most embarrassing moments on a bike seemed to be theirs, the reasons they got into riding were incredibly similar to mine, and after reading their stories it felt like I knew them in real life. If these stories were getting us excited, who else would it reach? How awesome would it be if 10 ladies showed up?

That would be nine girls I’ve never met who liked to ride motorcycles and camp. It was mind blowing to even think about. I hadn’t been this excited about something in years. The night before the meet-up for our first moto campout dubbed Babes in Borrego, I double dosed myself with Nyquil just to get an hour of sleep.

Morning of, I packed up the bike, checked the oil and tire pressure, and hit the road to the meet-up spot with three friends who had come down from Portland. As we pulled into the Starbucks off the 79, I was amazed. There were six bikes already lined up. Ten minutes later Anya rolled up with a crew of 15, and within 20 minutes, that number shifted to 50 motorcycles.

Women had come as far as New York, Arizona, Northern California, and Oregon. This was nuts. We did a quick rundown on group riding etiquette and hit the road. I won’t go into details on the entire weekend, but I will tell you why this particular weekend sparked a movement.

To create a space where everyone is equal and eliminates all egos is impossible, but somehow it happened at Babes in Borrego. We were all there because of one reason, we loved to ride motorcycles, and that was enough. Our biggest challenge was figuring out how to keep this going down the right path, but we didn’t have to do much. The 50 ladies who came were the biggest catalyst of setting the stage for next year’s event.

Year 2:

Babes Ride Out Two, yep we were official at this point. I realized it was time to actually provide toilets and a real camping spaces. If we build it, will they actually come? Nothing to lose, so why the hell not, right?

I had stumbled upon a campsite in Joshua Tree, CA that was privately owned so Anya and I packed up and headed out to take a look. Real showers, real toilets, and actual property we could legally camp on was all we needed to sign the papers and book it.

The site was in the perfect location and offered incredible rides that looped 200 miles through some of most beautiful roads we’ve seen. Anya and I established early on that Babes Ride Out would always be a riding focused event, so every aspect of the location had to be riding centric.

If you flew into San Diego or LA you could easily rent a bike from EagleRider and hit the Sunrise HWY from the south and Angeles Crest coming from LA. You could change the scenery from desert to mountains with routes through Idyllwild and Big Bear in less than 2 hours.

We found our home and when the site owner asked us how many ladies we thought were coming for our 2nd ever event, we said “Oh no more than 150 max.” A few months later we were looking at a registration list of 500 ladies. This is the year we brought in bands, food, raffle, and more. I can remember thinking “Holy crap…a REAL band, that’s just insane! How could we ever make it better than this!?”.

Year 3:

We weren’t going anywhere. Joshua Tree, CA was now the home of Babes Ride Out. We loved the site, we loved the routes, we loved the vastness of the desert but how to we make the event better? How could we make this the best experience these ladies have ever had? Now enters Barnett English, owner of the Joshua Tree Music Festival, whom has spent 25 years creating an artistic festival space on the campground we were already on.

The space sits on 10 of the 40 acres of the property and is not visible unless you make a real effort to go off past the privacy gates. We had no idea it was there. Anya and I went out to meet him and learn about the space, his festival, and his crew that has spent years making the site what it is today.

When he opened up the doors for us to see it, we were in shock. It was perfect in every way imaginable and we were speechless. By the time we opened gates for Babes Ride Out 2015, there were 1,500 registered attendees. Women came from the UK, Japan, South Africa, South America, Canada, and all over the United States. It became, what we jokingly called, the United Nation of Babes. It truly is awe-inspiring to see that many ladies excited to be there riding so many different kinds of bikes.

Year 4 and Beyond:

We felt confident taking the Babes Ride Out experience to the east coast and the U.K. The year prior we had hosted our first free off-roading event (Babes in the Dirt) so we decided to make that event annual as well. At this time, we’ve met so many incredible ladies who we knew we could partner with to make Babes Ride Out exist past California.

With the Gypsy Run event planning to conclude after its 10th year in production Sept 2016 (better see you there!), I put in a call to Walter of Kickstart Cycle and he gave us the green light to use his favorite campground in the Catskills.

We immediately put a call out to Virginia Hall, one of the ladies who has been coming to BRO the past two years and finalized a plan. Babes Ride Out East Coast was born and on May 27th, 2016. Some 250 lady riders descended upon the Catskills and had opportunities to ride nine different routes through the green roller coasters of roads that seemed to go on endlessly.

We also reached out to the ladies of VC London who run training camps for ladies who want to learn how to ride in the metro area and Babes Ride Out U.K was put in motion. With our expansion into other regions, our biggest event remains in Joshua Tree in the Fall and should remain that way for the foreseeable future.

Why it Matters: As the % of lady riders has risen, women are finding their space within the motorcycling community and with each other. Babes Ride Out serves as a way for digital friends to become lifelong friends and gives attendees a chance to make a real connection with the brands who support them.

We will continue to do our best to create riding focused environments and partner with those who care about the longevity of motorcycling. We are committed to safe riding, introducing learning elements for new and seasoned riders as well as building up the ever-growing community of two-wheel enthusiasts.

B.R.O couldn’t do this without the help of thousands of people (men and women) who take their time and energy to help make Babes Ride Out something we never could have imagined, the most inclusive two wheel experience in the world. – Babes Ride Out
Babes Ride Out ® – est. 2013

Babes Ride Out
27636 Ynez Rd. Ste L7 #353
Temecula, CA 92591

Customer Service: info@babesrideout.com

Sponsorship Inquiries: sponsorship@babesrideout.com

event: AHDRA’s MTC Engineering Sunshine Nationals

when: October 17-18, 2020

where: Orlando Speed World, Bithlo, Florida, USA

AHDRA Bringing Nitro to Orlando

AHDRA is bringing all-American motorcycle drag racing and the smell and fury of nitro to Florida’s Orlando Speed World with their MTC Engineering Sunshine Nationals on October 17-18.

That follows up a successful weekend of V-twin drag racing at Atlanta Dragway on October 3-4 as AHDRA works through a southern swing that finishes the season at Gainesville Raceway on November 6-8.

The lightning and thunder of AHDRA Top Fuel is not just another Florida afternoon storm. These explosive motorcycles and the macho men who ride them are the stuff of living legend.

Pro Dragsters are Top Fuel’s carbureted, smaller displacement, little brothers. Tyler Wilson beat Florida’s own Preston “President” Bartlett in the Atlanta Pro Dragster final, where Sam White was number one qualifier. Expect Bartlett and his LSR Racing partner Walter Halonski to fiercely defend their Florida home turf against all comers.

Gasoline classes make half the noise but often provide twice the excitement, and no bike makes less noise or ignites the internet more than Michael Beland’s record-setting, turbocharged Bagger. A-1 Cycles boss Beland practically owns A-1 Cycles Extreme Bagger whenever he shows up, as he did in Atlanta. With each pass, the motorcycle drag racing world breathlessly awaits to see what this combination laid down.

Numidia Mad Monkey Motorsports Draggin’ Bagger winner Branon White qualified number one in Atlanta, setting low ET and top speed of the event. But you know the rabbit and hare story—being quickest doesn’t always get you the win. That honor went to Kelly Seller in Atlanta, and once again Blair witnessed as runner-up. White’s starter failed in E2.

If Mike Motto has a motto, it’s “Two wins are better than one.” He won GMS Racing Engines Extreme Gas and Outlaw Street at Numidia and did it again in Atlanta. But Atlanta X-Gas runner-up Donnie Huffman will be on home turf in Orlando and will not look kindly towards anyone intent on occupying his winners circle. Pick that 8.70 ET up while you still have time Huffman!

Huffman’s 8.70 might not have been enough to win Extreme Gas, but a 9.87 did the job in Vreeland’s Harley-Davidson 9.70 Super Gas at Atlanta. Numidia runner-up John Shotts found himself playing that role yet again, while Bagger runner-up Blair was number one qualifier. It will be interesting to see what these guys, Numidia winner Bob Maier, and many more will do in Florida.

The time is right for T-Man Performance Pro Mod racer John Price, who’s on a two-race win streak from Numidia through Atlanta. Shane Pendergast lost the Atlanta final to Price on a holeshot and will be out for sweet, sweet redemption in Orlando.

Gary’s not the only member of the Douglass family looking for three straight, his son Charley fits that description as well. Charley won Horsepower Inc. Hot Street at both Numidia and Atlanta. Rockingham winner Scott Schenkel runner-upped at both of those races and is probably hell-bent on not letting Charley take the stripe in Orlando.

Super Pro 10.30 Index went to Butch Lowe in Atlanta, with Brad Ross Jr. the runner-up and number one qualifier.

The Atlanta Pro Eliminator 10.90 final was won by Stoney Westbrook over J.J. Stringer with Blair, again, the number one qualifier.

Illinois sportsman Kevin Winters has made a habit of doubling at every AHDRA event this year, but had to settle for one Crete’s Performance Street Eliminator 11.50 win in Atlanta. Will he get back to deuces in Florida? Or will perennial runner-up Charlie Walker take the win this time around?

Eliminator and Trophy races will abound in Orlando, so bring your helmet and enter your piece to see how you measure up at this drag racing thing.

MTC’s Eric Hochstetler, Speed World’s Ozzy and Jennifer Moya, and AHDRA’s Bill Rowe and his family, crew, and sponsors look forward to welcoming you to two straight races in the Sunshine State, with Orlando followed by the legendary Gainesville Raceway on November 6-8. This is what the racing life is all about, so trailer up and live the dream!

Orlando gates open Friday, October 16th at 3:00pm. The track will have testing from 6-11:00pm. Saturday riders meeting is at 9:30am, 10:00 -10:30am ET .500 tree time shots, 10:30-11:00am .400 tree time shots, qualifying begins at 11:30 with Top Fuel on down. Sunday is race day!

The AHDRA website is at http://raceahdra.com/

The AHDRA Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/ahdraracing/

The AHDRA Facebook group can be found at https://www.facebook.com/groups/AHDRA/

AHDRA is owned by Pulse Marketing, the Hellertown, Pennsylvania-based motorsports promotion company run by veteran drag racer Rowe and his family.

Indian Privateer Jeffrey Carver Jr. Takes Top Spot;

Wrecking Crew Riders Jared Mees and Briar Bauman Place Second and Third Respectively

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (October 10, 2020) – Indian Motorcycle Racing, presented by Progressive Motorcycle Insurance, and its championship-winning FTR750 put its dominance on full display once again, sweeping the podium in this past weekend’s Charlotte Half-Mile. In thrilling fashion, Indian Motorcycle Privateer Jeffrey Carver Jr. was able to surpass Wrecking Crew riders Jared Mees and Briar Bauman to take home his first win of the season. Mees and Bauman finished second and third, respectively, as they battle for the 2021 AFT SuperTwins Grand National Championship.

At the outset of the race, Mees and Bauman separated themselves from the pack and seemed well on their way toward a head-to-head finish. However, the complexion of the race changed dramatically when a red flag came out and forced a staggered restart. While Mees and Bauman exchanged passes through nearly every turn, Carver seized his opportunity and overtook both Mees and Bauman. Though Mees remained intent on capturing his third-consecutive win, Carver was successful in fending him off. The second place-finished proved vital to Mees’ season as it brought him to within nine points behind the reigning-champion Bauman in the season points standings.

“We’re really proud of our team for the show they’ve continued to put on this season,” said Gary Gray, Vice President – Racing, Technology and Service for Indian Motorcycle. “We know that both Briar and Jared are going to cut it loose in these remaining two races and we’re excited to see who takes home the No. 1 plate.”

Mees now has a firm grasp of second place with 264 points and is within striking distance of Bauman, who sits atop the leaderboard with 273 points on the year. After finishing fifth in Charlotte, Indian Motorcycle Privateer Sammy Halbert remains in third with 207 points. Indian Motorcycle Wrecking Crew Rider Bronson Bauman (162) holds a narrow four-point lead over both Indian Motorcycle Privateers Brandon Robinson and Brandon Price (158) for fourth place. Carver’s win is just six back of Bronson Bauman with 156 total points.

The 2020 American Flat Track season concludes on October 16-17 at the Progressive AFT Finale Doubleheader at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. For more information on Indian Motorcycle Racing, visit  IndianMotorcycle.com and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.