100 word fiction contest continues…. #100WFC Cop Out by Wayfarer with illustration by Wayfarer Man without a plan, rabblerouser without a pause, I set out to ride one last time before winter sets in. Clear skies lighted up, straight, almost empty highway. Next beer at State line I thought. A siren blasted behind me as my Fatboy touched 120 mph. “Papers,” officer says. As he searched me for drugs, I noticed his car had bad blinkers. I stared at them and he caught my line of sight. He grunted as if to dare me to mention it. “Will that be all officer?” I asked. He retorted, “Limit yourself. Doesn’t have to be Vegas or bust!” and closed his book. I got the drift and got away.

* * *

WINNER for the month of November 2023: TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON Know past winners and read all entries ever published by visiting: https://www.bikernet.com/pages/100_Word_Fiction_Contest.aspx All you gotta do is subscribe to Bikernet’s free weekly newsletter and send in your entry to wayfarer@bikernet.com

CYBER MONDAY!!

Great Deals Start Here!

When ordering through our website use Promo Code: CM2023

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Family Owned and Operated for over 25 years

Proudly Made in the USA

WindVest Motorcycle Products

* * * *

Tell ’em Bikernet.com sent ya !

CHRISTMAS DREAMS: The Family Code
By Bandit with illustrations by Wayfarer

Gabriel rode hard, fought hard and searched his soul year after year after he found himself in the Chopper homeland of Sturgis, South Dakota. He ultimately discovered a spot of land in Boulder Canyon, containing a modest cabin and a heated shop space to die for, but a double shot of Jack on the rocks at the Oasis lounge in downtown became his solace from his haunting blues.

Something clawed at him like a bad dream, a scolding mother or the fight, when he nearly killed a man in a blind rage. He felt like a soldier missing an arm.

“What’s eating at you,” Shirley said and knew when to pour him another drink.

“I don’t know,” Gabriel said. “I can’t figure it out.”

“Was it a girl?” Shirley muttered making change. “It usually is.”

“There’s been a few,” Gabriel said and took a swig of the Jack before the ice fully melted. “There was one.” His voice drifted off.

Click here for reading this illustrated romance thriller only on Bikernet.com

* * * *

Get some Motorcycle Adventure Books to stuff stockings — head to the 5-Ball Racing Shop by clicking here.

https://5-ballgarage.com/

100 word fiction contest continues…. #100WFC

Thanksgiving Ride
by Rhys
with illustration by Wayfarer

Fired up the ole Shovel. There was a nip in the air being late November. Pulled on my leather over the hoodie and off I went. Sunny but chilly I rode my favorite back roads I travel when don’t have a particular destination. As the afternoon passed I stopped at a deli and ordered a Thanksgiving turkey sandwich.

There’s a price to pay for freedom and being a loner. Good sandwich.

Happy Thanksgiving to all.

* * *

Know past winners and read all entries ever published by visiting:
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/100_Word_Fiction_Contest.aspx

All you gotta do is subscribe to Bikernet’s free weekly newsletter and send in your entry to wayfarer@bikernet.com

Motorcycle Mania! Black Friday’s Mega Sale on Antique Parts is Here

15% OFF at Competition Distributing!*

BLACK FRIDAY ONLY!

Ends Friday 11/24/23 11:59PM EST

*Sale on all products but Pistons, Lifts, Fuel Tanks, and Handlebars

https://www.competitiondist.com/collections/top-end-parts

Shop Competition Distributing

* * * *

Tell ’em Bikernet.com sent ya!

Hey,

I want to wish everyone the best Thanksgiving ever. We are actually living in the best of times. This next year could be the most comfortable and rewarding for the human race in the history of mankind.

What the hell does that say for bikers? We are capable of riding all over the globe, almost. We can build any motorcycle from something technologically advanced to a 1913 Board-track racer. We can build and restore Panheads and Knuckleheads forever and keep them alive.

We can build any chopper we can dream up with stock replacement frames, Paughco springers, you name it, it’s possible. We can build and tool up any shop and teach our kids how to build, weld, machine, anything and everything.

Hell, there’s more whiskey choices than ever before. The Buffalo Chip has Whiskey, Jesse James has whiskey and so does Mike Ballard at the Full Throttle Saloon.

So, have a great time, rejoice, and next year, let’s kick some ass.

Let’s hit the news

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

CALL TO ACTION!–Tell Lawmakers to Stop the Environmental Protection Agency’s Attack on Internal Combustion Engines.

Bills in the U.S. Senate and U.S. House are taking direct aim at the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) attack on the internal combustion engine. Over the next decade, the EPA is preparing to institute regulations that would compel over two-thirds of new vehicles to be electric by 2032.

The Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Acts (S. 3094 & H.R. 4468) attempt to block the EPA from mandating the use of specific technology in new motor vehicles or issuing rules that result in limited availability of vehicles based upon the engine.

In the brief time since these bills were introduced, 33 U.S. Senators and 34 U.S. Representatives have signed on as cosponsors. Now is the time to act! To save the internal combustion engine, motorcyclists need to speak up to the folks in D.C.

Remember, these bills are like the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Acts (H.R. 1435 & S. 2090) but are focused instead on the federal government. While H.R. 1435 and S. 2090 are targeting states like California, which are trying to restrict internal combustion engines.

Even if you have answered the call to action on the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act, you can and should support these two bills!

Click BOTH links listed below to reach BOTH of your Senators and your Representative!

To contact your Senators and ask them to support S. 3094, click here.

To contact your Representative and ask them to support H.R. 4468, visit MRF website.

–MRF

DIRECT FROM BIKERNET BUSINESS NEWS–Amazon to sell Hyundai vehicles online starting in 2024

Amazon will begin selling Hyundai vehicles online in the US starting next year, the two companies said on Thursday.

Customers will be able to shop for, equip and buy a car at Amazon and schedule delivery through a local Hyundai dealer, the companies said.

Read more at:
https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/passenger-vehicle/amazon-to-sell-hyundai-vehicles-online-starting-in-2024/105276217

Electric car demand set to stall in Europe’s ‘valley of death’

Fully-electric sales in Europe were up 47% in the first nine months of 2023, but instead of celebrating, automakers including Tesla, Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz sounded a sombre note. High interest rates and a subdued market are putting customers off, they warned, with Volkswagen’s EV order intake half what it was last year.

Dealers in Germany and Italy as well as research by four global data analysis firms say there is more behind the slower uptake than economic uncertainty, with the consumers unconvinced that EVs meet their safety, range and price needs.

“We call it the valley of death, which we will be going through in 2024 to 2027: low residual values, high supply, and low demand.”

Read more at:
https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/industry/electric-car-demand-set-to-stall-in-europes-valley-of-death/105189498

–Wayfarer
Editor: Bikernet Blog & Facebook Page

HERE THEY COME, THE QUOTES IF THE WEEK—

“Anybody can jump a motorcycle. The trouble begins when you try to land it.”
– Evel Knievel

from SturgisRally.com

THE FUTURE OF THE STURGIS RALLY—

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has been an iconic destination for motorcycle enthusiasts and music lovers since 1981. Over the past few decades, the Rally has seen major improvements, provided countless unforgettable experiences and cemented its status as a mecca for motorcycle culture. As we peer into the crystal ball and attempt to envision the future, let’s explore what the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally might look like in 50 years.

Technological Advancements:

In 50 years, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is likely to embrace a plethora of technological advancements. You can anticipate the integration of cutting-edge technology to enhance the overall experience for visitors. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) may transport attendees to immersive virtual environments, allowing them to relive the rally’s historic moments or explore fantasy worlds on the fringes of their imaginations.

Autonomous vehicles might become the norm, allowing attendees to travel effortlessly around the city and beyond. Smart infrastructure will likely be in place, providing a seamless and interconnected experience for all attendees, from advanced ticketing systems to smart wristbands for entry, payments, and personalized recommendations for popular destinations, like the Sturgis Buffalo Chip.

Future Sturgis Rally

Expanded Entertainment and Experiences:
As the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally looks toward the future, the realm of entertainment is bound to undergo transformation. Music, which has always been a cornerstone of the rally, will likely evolve to include a diverse range of genres and performances by holographic and virtual artists. Imagine witnessing legendary musicians of the past resurrected on stage through holographic technology, captivating audiences with their timeless hits.

The Rally could feature more state-of-the-art performance venues, incorporating interactive elements and advanced audiovisual setups. Attendees may find themselves immersed in 360-degree audio experiences, transcending traditional concert settings. The inclusion of emerging technologies like haptic feedback suits could allow visitors to feel the music pulsating through their bodies.

Future Sturgis Rally

Community and Global Reach:
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has fostered a close-knit community over the years, bringing together motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world. In the next 50 years, you can anticipate the Rally expanding its global reach even further. With the advent of advanced communication technologies, attendees may be able to connect and interact with enthusiasts from different parts of the globe, creating a truly international community.

Virtual attendance could become a reality, enabling motorcycle lovers who are unable to physically be present at the Rally to participate remotely. Livestreams and virtual reality experiences might provide a front-row seat to concerts and events, transcending geographical boundaries.

Envisioning the future of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in 50 years is a thrilling exercise that combines imagination and technological trends. While no one can predict the specifics with certainty, it is likely that the Rally will embrace emerging technologies and expand its global community.

Sincerely,

–Artificial Intelligence
www.Sturgis.com

Concerts At the Legendary Chip

Ladies and gentlemen, the future is already here. This whole article up to this point was written in about 10 seconds by Chat GPT, an artificial intelligence chat bot.

We can take some comfort in seeing how unimaginative and dry Chat GTP made this article and predictions. The great and fearful A.I. doesn’t seem all that worrisome when you realize it has no true imagination for what the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally could become.

Sturgis.com Blog

Still, imagining the future is freakin’ crazy. With how far the Rally has come in 83 years, a lot of the things that this robot suggested for the next 50 years are not really that out of reach.

But the traditions built at the Rally are important, and some things will never change, like the four pillars of what you come for – Music, Motorcycles, Freedom, and Friendship. And we can guarantee what will never change is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally’s dedication to providing the center for motorcycle enthusiasts and to put smiling faces on otherwise plain boring heads.

Cheers,

–An Actual Human

BIKERNET HOLIDAY LETTER–

Hey,

Happy Holidays from the Bikernet Staff and 5-Ball Racing. I wanted to report in and ask for your continued support for 2024, which will be an amazing year for Bikernet, our 28th year.

As you know, this is going to be a turning point year for our country and the world.

I have been involved in motorcycle legislation and the freedom fight for over 50 years. This year with the help of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, we created a resolution to demand scientific truth from Washington. I was awarded the Thomas Paine award at the annual Meeting of the Minds legislative conference in Harrisburg, Pennyslvania in September and Bikernet, 5-Ball Leathers, and Bikers for Truth received a certificate of appreciation.

I am also a part of a new legislative effort to support motorcycle shops all over the country, the IMA, Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket. The fight for our lifestyle is more strident now than ever.

Bikernet.com has been around a long time and through enhanced technology the competition is tougher than ever. Throughout 2024 Bikernet.com will undergo a complete upgrade and transformation. It will be costly, but we want to insure all our historic content is safe and accessible. Bikernet.com will be reorganized and easier to navigate or we’ll die trying.

I want to thank you from the bottom of my outlaw heart for your continued support. We are also working hard to reach into the entertainment industry and present movie makers with story lines that reflect the true nature of our industry and the outlaw spirit.

Wish us luck and we wish you a tremendous holiday season.

Keith R. Ball
President
Bikernet.com
5-Ball Racing

P.S. I must give massive credit to Wayfarer, who is a Royal Enfield rider and writer. He’s been with Bikernet for over 15 years and recently dove into AI illustrations. He created the art for our calendars and the turkey illustrations.

FREEDOM FIGHTER READER COMMENT—

Just read your article in the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Nov. 23 issue.

Excellent information and a lot of details that I had forgotten.

Al Gore is a true opportunist who used the public trust to become a wealthily Socialist. I was at a Meeting in 1975 in D.C. for Am Farm Bureau.There was a person attending from his Home state. His comment was, “Al Gore preaches Energy conservation, but his monthly Electrical usage was documented at 15,000 per month and his house was 35,000 sq. feet with two outdoor pools.”

If this is conservation of energy, please explain what is considered as wasteful.
Keep up the good work and stay and ride Safe. Keep up the excellent articles for Bikernet.com

–Joe Smith
Garden State Abate V.P.
Joe@peachcountrytractor.com

CHOPPER MAGAZINE REPORT–PRE-BLACK FRIDAY SALE is here

15% Off Site Wide

No discount code needed
Order early before stock runs out
Early access for email subscribers

“We are just about to receive the lasted issue of Choppers Magazine. Can’t wait.”
–Bandit

LATEST FROM AMERICAN PRIME–TPP VARIABLE PRESSURE CLUTCH ASSIST

The TPP Variable Pressure Clutch Assist and pressure plate applies up to 60% more pressure against clutch pack enabling use of lighter black diaphragm spring for up to 50% lighter lever pull.

When used with a silver or even gold spring it exponentially increases the pressure against the clutch pack making it ideal for larger displacement, high performance motors.

Can be used on APM Comp Master Clutch or Rivera Pro Clutch. (1056-0032 Comp Master Clutch for M8 Models shown above right). We also have a new version for OE H-D hydraulically actuated clutches.

Got a TPP already? All the little bits and pieces that make up these units are also available! Just call the Clutch Pros at APM!!

ENTERTAINMENT ON AMAZON’S WILDERNESS

Well, since they are destined to take over the world and Mars too—we thought of looking into the large library of war movies on Amazon Prime streaming service.

Not to overwhelm you– we picked just a few you might not have otherwise watched.

While everyone talks about the Oppenheimer movie, and it is expected to release on Amazon Prime–back in 2018 there was an interesting movie on Nobel winning physicist Heisenberg in Nazi Germany and an American baseball player turned spy, sent to stop the Nazi development of the Atomic Bomb.

It’s also on Amazon Prime.

https://m.imdb.com/title/tt4602066/

(Beginning on Tuesday, November 21, Oppenheimer will be available to buy and rent digitally on Amazon Prime, Google Play, Apple TV)

If you haven’t already, check out Al Pacino starrer Hunters season 1 and 2 on Amazon Prime. It’s like someone stole Tarantino’s braindump and made a pulp extravaganza for Amazon Prime. Every time I say no to binge-watching, “they pull me back in !”

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7456722/

Meanwhile, pariah actor Tobey Maguire started producing his own films to earn back his lost reputation (and jobs) in Hollywood.

He showcases a game of brisk onset of insanity unfolding onscreen in the role of chess legend and recluse, Bobby Fischer.

On Amazon Prime.

https://m.imdb.com/title/tt1596345/

P.S. Did you know, The Frederick Forsyth novel title ‘The Dogs of War’ is based on a phrase from William Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar: “Cry, ‘Havoc!’, and let slip the dogs of war.” The movie of the same name, as of November 2022, is available for free viewing on Amazon Freevee.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/splash/freevee_findus

–Wayfarer
War-mongrel, Dept. of Dogs of War
Bikernet University dog-house.

[page break]

FROM THE BIKERNET BLOG–
Honda launches a renewed 350 to rival Enfield Classic 350

Honda CB350 launched at Rs.2,00,000, will take on Royal Enfield 350. This is an even better retro-styled motorcycle from Honda than their previous 350 efforts in India and offers a lot of modern features that Enfield never has– at a price that can win customers over to their stable.

While it is primarily aimed at dethroning the King –Royal Enfield Classic 350 in sales pie-charts, it seems by co-incidence it will compete effectively with customers divided between Hero-made Harley-Davidson 440 and Bajaj-made Triumph Speed 400.

Those who want an Enfield will listen to no reason nor rhyme to change their mind about their purchase.

Meanwhile, Enfield is sending Meteor to USA (well the motorcycle model, relax!) and Honda H’ness 350 which was first designed and launched in India was soon released in Japan as well. So will America see a Honda 350?

It would be interesting if Honda and Kawasaki (Z650RS) brought the retro-styled motorcycles they presented in India to USA– because surely Harley-Davidson and Triumph won’t be bringing their 440cc and 400cc bikes over to ruin their American Dream of selling big bikes.

Clearly, sales volumes in India, a more dynamic and responsive market than China, seems to tempt brands to change their strategies in their primary/major markets as well.

All said, Honda still has a ‘big’ drawback with its sales and servicing of mid-weight bikes. Only Honda Big Wing brand of authorized dealers can sell and service these 350cc motorcycles apart from their other big engine bikes such as Fireblade, Africa Twin or Goldwing. This is silly because a 350cc engine is a common sight in all cities in India–thanks to Royal Enfield’s success at marketing and branding them.

So, unless Honda leverages its vast number of dealers who sell 100cc to 150cc commuter motorcycles and scooters, I don’t see a large dip in sales of Enfield Classic anytime soon. Ever since it was launched, Royal Enfield Classic 350 has been the highest selling model not just in Enfield’s range but also in the industry segment it created, namely, middle-weight motorcycles.

On Bikernet Blog:
https://blog.bikernet.com/honda-launches-a-renewed-350-to-rival-enfield-classic-350/

Other sources:
https://www.msn.com/en-in/autos/news/honda-cb350-launched-at-2-lakh-will-take-on-royal-enfield-350/ar-AA1k8wx6

https://www.rideapart.com/news/491449/honda-cb350-wide-global-release-rumors/

–Wayfarer
Exploring the wheeled world on the web
Editor: Bikernet Blog & Facebook Page

THE TRUTH FILES ARE OPEN–Texas, Textbooks & the CO2 Coalition

In late October, education experts at the Texas Public Policy Foundation asked the CO2 Coalition to assist in reviews of science textbooks in the Lone Star State.

Time was very short, and we quickly assembled a team of science and education experts. Within three days our team completed an analysis of the problems that we identified.

A common denominator was the demonization of carbon dioxide and fossil fuels while avoiding discussions of the benefits of either.

On November 17, the Texas State Board of Education outright rejected some textbooks, while approving others with recommended removal and editing of some of the worst offending material.

The important role that our team played in this effort was recognized by those leading the effort:

Many thanks to CO2 Coalition… This was a fantastic effort to impact K-12 science books that will be used around the country for a decade.

–Jason Isaac – Director of Life:Powered TPPF

–CO2 Coalition

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS HONORED— With “Tennessee Music Pathways” Marker In Oak Ridge, Tennessee

The Oak Ridge Boys Continuing To Add Shows On Their Historic ‘American Made: Farewell Tour’

“The City of Oak Ridge is proud to partner with the Tennessee Department of Tourism to honor The Oak Ridge Boys at the historic Grove Theater. 80 years after they first performed here, we get to unveil this marker for Oak Ridgers and visitors to see for decades to come.”

– Oak Ridge Mayor, Warren Gooch

“The Oak Ridge Boys have achieved enduring success and widespread acclaim, and it all started right here in Oak Ridge. It is an honor to recognize the group’s achievements and contributions to our state’s rich music heritage, as a part of the Tennessee Music Pathways.” – Commissioner Mark Ezell, Tennessee Dept of Tourist Development.

GRAMMY Award-winning and Country Music Hall of Fame members, The Oak Ridge Boys were honored by The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development with the unveiling of the “Tennessee Music Pathways” marker in Oak Ridge, Tennessee on Monday, November 20. William Lee Golden and Richard Sterban were in attendance representing The Oak Ridge Boys along with Tennessee Representative John Reagan, Oak Ridge Mayor, Warren Gooch, and family members of former Oak Ridge Boys’ Wally Fowler and Lon “Deacon” Freeman, both original members of The Oak Ridge Quartet. Oak Ridge Mayor, Warren Gooch also presented The Oak Ridge Boys with a key to the city and a proclamation honoring their contributions to the city.

“I can’t think of anywhere I would rather have been than at the Grove Theater in Oak Ridge with the kind folks at The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development who worked so hard to design this marker,” expresses Richard Sterban. “The Oak Ridge Boys as a group goes back 80 years to the original members, Wally Fowler, Lon “Deacon” Freeman, Curly Kinsey, and Johnny New, and we have never forgotten them or their contributions. It has been a privilege to build on that.”

The Oak Ridge Boys are officially celebrating their 50th Anniversary this year and recently announced their American Made: Farewell Tour. The group, Duane Allen (1966), Joe Bonsall (1973), William Lee Golden (1965), and Richard Sterban (1972) shared the announcement with Billboard and People, as a way to celebrate with their fans.

In the early seventies, The Oak Ridge Boys continued to expand their cutting-edge style. After the addition of Richard Sterban in 1972 and Joe Bonsall in 1973, the Oaks were forever changed with a new direction, a new sound, and a new path. Their career stands alone with its legacy, its style, and its continued contributions to gospel and country music.

The Oak Ridge Boys Upcoming Tour Dates:
NOV 21 – Vern Riffe Center for the Arts / Portsmouth, Ohio
NOV 24 – Honeywell Center / Wabash, Ind.
NOV 25 – Paramount Theatre / Anderson, Ind.
NOV 26 – Midland Center for the Arts / Midland, Mich.
NOV 30 – Weldon Mills Theatre / Roanoke Rapids, N.C.
DEC 01 – Renfro Valley Barn Dance / Mount Vernon, Ky.
DEC 02 – Anderson Music Hall / Hiawassee, Ga.
DEC 07 – Firekeepers Casino / Battle Creek, Mich.
DEC 08 – Island Resort & Casino / Harris, Mich.
DEC 09 – Island Resort & Casino / Harris, Mich.
DEC 12 – Ryman Auditorium / Nashville, Tenn.
DEC 14 – The Carson Center / Paducah, Ky.
DEC 15 – Effingham Performance Center / Effingham, Ill.
DEC 16 – Crystal Grand Music Theatre / Wisconsin Dells, Wisc.
DEC 17 – Egyptian Theatre / Dekalb, Ill.
DEC 30 – Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa / Greenville, Miss.

2024 Tour Dates:
JAN 20 – The Grand 1894 Opera House / Galveston, Texas
JAN 21 – The Grand 1894 Opera House / Galveston, Texas
FEB 02 – Boot Barn Hall / Gainesville, Ga.
FEB 29 – Florida Strawberry Festival / Plant City, Fla.
MAR 01 – The Alliance Center / Burlington, N.C.
MAR 03 – North Auditorium, University of North Alabama / Florence, Ala.
MAR 15 – Foxwoods Resort Casino – Great Cedar Showroom Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Reservation / Mashantucket, Conn.
MAR 16 – American Music Theatre / Lancaster, Pa.
MAR 17 – American Music Theatre / Lancaster, Pa.
MAR 23 – Sugar Creek Casino / Hinton, Okla.
APR 05 – City of Morganton Municipal Auditorium / Morganton, N.C.
APR 06 – Alabama Theatre / North Myrtle Beach, S.C.
APR 10 – Clay County Agricultural Fair / Green Cove Springs, Fla.
APR 13 – George H. Henderson Jr. Exposition Center / Lufkin, Texas

For The Oak Ridge Boys’ full tour schedule, visit their website.

NEWS FROM THE MASTER IN THE DESERT—

Deal of the Day “Wash Day “Painted in the ‘90s, Wash Day has become an iconic work of art. This image is in collections worldwide and the Original is on the secondary art market for $96,000.00.

You never know when your painting hits a “Home Run” but this 4-month project definitely was.

SOLD

I have (1) Canvas Giclee’ from my 23 display for $500.00/frt. Normally $850.00.
(480) 280-8738 eric@ericherrmannstudios.com 

SPORTSTER OF THE WEEK—

This 1993 XL883 was Nick’s daily runner last year. Then winter hit, and he decided to put it under the knife. The paint was done by Amanda over at Black Widow Custom Paint.

Build by Augment Collective.

Augment Collective is available at https://www.lightandgears.com

They publish a plethora of subjects on a variety of media platforms; one being custom motorcycles.

Apparently, Nick (last name unknown) was the owner/builder.

Black Widow Custom Paint is:
Amanda Brisebois
Guelph, Ontario.

info@blackwidowcustompaint.com
416.723.7706

@blackwidowcustompaint

–Sam Burns
Bike Feature Editor
Bikernet.com™

BLACK FRIDAY ACTION FROM NASH MOTORCYCLES—

NEXT WEEKEND BLACK FRIDAY SALE DISCOUNT WILL BE 30% OFF!

PROMO CODE: early40

EXCLUDES: ON THE ROAM PRODUCTS & PTM * PARTS

SHOP NOW

WONDERFUL NEWS FROM THE WHEELS THROUGH TIME MUSEUM–

We’re proud to announce that Alex Casey, from LaPlata, Maryland, is the lucky winner of our 2023 Annual Raffle! Alex visited the museum for the first time in October when he purchased his tickets. Alex was in disbelief when Matt called and couldn’t believe that he really won.

The second prize went to Bruce Wilson of Locust Grove, Georgia, and the third prize went to James Lane of South Jersey!

YOU are what fuels “The Museum That Runs!” Thank you for your support!

Among the festivities on Raffle Day, Matt unveiled the raffle bike for 2024, a stunning 1936 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead. Finished in H-D Factory Custom Gold, trimmed in Brillant Black, and hand-striped with chrome accents. This 61c.i. OHV Knucklehead powerhouse sports a 4-speed transmission, art deco styling with full fenders, iconic “skull” dash, and 100 mph speedo. Plus, a list of one-year-only parts too numerous to mention.

The machine was meticulously restored to showroom condition in the WTT Restoration shop for one reason…

Going home with one lucky winner this 2024!

SEE THE 2024 BIKE

We are now closed for the 2023 season and will re-open on April 4th for the 2024 season. But don’t worry! You can follow along all winter long to see the newest projects hitting the Wheels Through Time Museum on our Facebook and YouTube!

EAT YOUR OWN CAKE–
And maybe stop comparing with the rich

Rich people have inspired plenty of fiction of all genres. From Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to Dumas’ The Count of Monte Cristo. There is the more appealing Pride and Prejudice with a rich bachelor and The Taming of the Shrew with a fake nobleman. We admire some, loathe some, envy some and some of ‘em seem mysterious or even inspiring.

Popular culture hasn’t ignored rags to riches stories or stories of how a super-rich celebrity loses all their wealth. Bad habits to bad decisions, pretty women to pretty awful life choices. There is a crime-drama biopic on John Dillinger which is thrilling and a more recent sports biopic on George Foreman that reinforces our faith in man and God.

Music is not left untouched by the beat of the penny and its pounding. There is ABBA’s all-time-hit radio mainstay ‘Money, Money, Money’ and of course Aerosmith’s ‘Eat the rich’.

What does a rich person signify to you? Do you imagine all of them or most of them have bent rules, laws, bent people and institutions to get where they are? Do you believe they have an obligation to rest of the citizens or nation and society? How important do you consider charity as a trait among mankind? Do you donate (time, effort or money) and feel the rich therefore should do more than the average Joe/Jane?

Personally, the below article seems like click-bait headline with lot of circumstantial allegations and implications. It also kind of makes me rethink doing any charity at all. If it is all fake or appears to be fake to others, why waste my resources? We can agree that’s an unhealthy way to consider it. Yet, such articles seem to discourage an average guy with a job, commute, bills and family from going the extra mile and giving a helping hand to his fellow citizen or community.

Ultimately, man is defined by what he does, not what he possesses (be it money or talent).

What fiction or poetry comes to your mind as you pore over the bitterness in the below article?

Billionaire Philanthropy Is a Scam
A new report from the Institute for Policy Studies finds, these pledgers aren’t following through on their commitments—and the often self-serving nature of their philanthropy is actually making things worse for charitable organizations.

From SubStack: https://hotaircoldlove.substack.com/

–Wayfarer

TRIUMPH OF THE WEEK— Bonneville T-120

Built by Pitstop Motor Werks

–Sam Burns
Feature Bike Editor
Bikernet.com™

BILLY RAY CYRUS AND FIREROSE CYRUS
SIGN WITH BUCHWALD FOR GLOBAL REPRESENTATION–

Buchwald has signed GRAMMY winning multi-hyphenate Billy Ray Cyrus and Firerose Cyrus for worldwide representation in all areas outside of music.

Billy Ray and Firerose continue to be managed by Scott Adkins and represented by Nick Meinema’s Action Entertainment Collaborative for agency representation for LIVE music bookings.

Their Top 20 single, “Plans,” climbed to No. 16 on both Mediabase’s Adult Contemporary Chart and Billboard’s Adult Contemporary Chart. Recently, the pair appeared on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” and performed together on “Good Morning America.”

Billy Ray Cyrus is a critically and commercially acclaimed superstar who has established himself as a household name across multiple areas of the entertainment landscape, including music, television, theater and more. Throughout his nearly three-decade career, he has achieved global success as an actor including the beloved series Doc and carried Doc as the lead, which ran 4 seasons and 88 episodes.

Doc opened the door for worldwide syndication for Billy Ray and his film and television brand. Billy Ray also created and starred in the CMT comedy series Still the King, which ran for two seasons. In addition to Hannah Montana: The Movie, film credits include Mulholland Drive, Christmas Comes Home to Canaan, and The Spy Next Door, to name just a few.

Billy Ray exploded onto the music scene when his first album, Some Gave All, debuted on the all-genre Billboard album chart at No. 1 and stayed there for a record-breaking 17 weeks in 1992. The lead single, “Achy Breaky Heart,” became a phenomenon and went multi-platinum, also becoming the first ever song to achieve triple platinum status in Australia. After “Achy Breaky Heart,” Cyrus followed up with back-to-back hits “It Could’ve Been Me,” “She’s Not Crying Anymore,” “Wher’m I Gonna Live When I Get Home?” and the anthemic “Some Gave All.”

Cyrus knocked himself out of the top Billboard position with his second No. 1 album, It Won’t Be The Last, featuring smash hits “In the Heart of a Woman,” “Words By Heart” and “Somebody New.” His success continued with dozens more singles that redefined country music. In 2021, he celebrated the highest RIAA® 14x Diamond-certified song in recorded music history with Lil Nas X on the worldwide smash, “Old Town Road (Remix ft. Billy Ray Cyrus).”

Australian-born singer, songwriter and actress Firerose duets with her husband Billy Ray on their new single, “Plans,” which climbed to No. 16 on both Mediabase’s Adult Contemporary Chart and Billboard’s Adult Contemporary Chart. She has performed on national television programs, including “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” “LIVE with Kelly and Ryan,” “Good Morning America,” and has been featured in People Magazine, American Songwriter, Taste of Country, Us Weekly, CNN, iHeartRadio, The Today Show Australia, and many more. Be sure to follow Firerose on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and Spotify. To keep up with Cyrus, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, TikTok and visit billyraycyrus.com.

[page break]

BIG BUFFALO CHIP SURPRISE–The announcement arriving on

Black Friday will come as a surprise!

Don’t let the upcoming price increase catch you off guard, too.

– SAVE BIG –

Through Thursday Nov. 23 at 5 p.m. MST

40% Off 3-Day Package A

50% Off Select Multi-Day & VIP Passes

Don’t miss your chance to get 3 days of concerts, bike shows, camping and all-around good times for

ONLY $178!

BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY OPEN FOR THE HOLIDAYS—Let’s eat

1. My husband and I divorced over religious differences. He thought he was God and I didn’t.
2. I don’t suffer from insanity; I enjoy every minute of it.
3. Some people are alive only because it’s illegal to kill them.
4. I used to have a handle on life, but it broke.
5. Don’t take life too seriously; No one gets out alive.
6. You’re just jealous because the voices only talk to me
7. Beauty is in the eye of the beer holder.
8. Earth is the insane asylum for the universe.
9. I’m not a complete idiot — Some parts are just missing.
10. Out of my mind. Back in five minutes.
11. NyQuil, the stuffy, sneezy, why-the-heck-is-the-room-spinning medicine.
12. God must love stupid people; He made so many.
13. The gene pool could use a little chlorine.
14. Consciousness: That annoying time between naps.
15.. Ever stop to think, and forget to start again?
16. Being ‘over the hill’ is much better than being under it!
17. Wrinkled Was Not One of the Things I Wanted to Be When I Grew up.
18. Procrastinate Now!
19. I Have a Degree in Liberal Arts; Do You Want Fries With That?
20. A hangover is the wrath of grapes.
21. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a cash advance.
22. Stupidity is not a handicap. Park elsewhere!
23. They call it PMS because Mad Cow Disease was already taken.
24. He who dies with the most toys is nonetheless DEAD.
25. A picture is worth a thousand words, but it uses up three
thousand times the memory.
26. Ham and eggs…A day’s work for a chicken, a lifetime commitment for a pig.
27. The trouble with life is there’s no background music.
28. The original point and click interface was a Smith & Wesson.
29. I smile because I don’t know what the hell is going on.

Appreciate every single thing you have, especially your friends!
Life is too short, and friends are too few!

–El Waggs

JOIN THE IMA, INDEPENDENT MOTORCYCLE AFTERMARKET, BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE—

A new group of aftermarket shops and builders was recently formed under the MRF Motorcycle Riders Foundation umbrella, to keep our industry free and alive.

We are facing tough challenges the toughest in our history. Here’s just a touch of what we’re up against:

From the CO2 Coalition:
In our Scientific opinion, all of these Net Zero regulations and actions are scientifically invalid and fatally flawed science because they:

Fabricate data or omit data that contradicts their conclusions, for example, on extreme weather and internal combustion engines.

• Rely on models that do not work.
• Rely on iPCC findings, which are government opinions, not science.
• Omit the extraordinary social benefits of CO2 and petroleum products and internal combustion engines.
• Omit the disastrous consequences of reducing fossil fuels, internal combustion engines and CO2 emissions to Net Zero.
• Reject the science that demonstrates there is no risk of catastrophic global warming caused by fossil fuels, internal combustion engines and CO2.

–CO2 Coalition

About the Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket

Founded on the principle to protect independent dealers and custom bike builders’ rights to repair and modify motorcycles, the IMA membership is determined to keep us free.

We are fortunate to be aligned with the MRF, Motorcycle Riders Foundation, which fought to protect our culture for over 40 years, has excellent
lobbying efforts in D.C and is connected to state organizations all over the country.

The IMA is pro-active and working on these issues every day, but we need your support now. The attack on internal combustion engines and the free-thinking values of the biker lifestyle makes support of the IMA an urgent and critical matter.

Go to mrf.org/join and click on the search button.

BABES RIDE OUT ACTION–Welcome home! We are thrilled to celebrate Babes Ride Out Borrego 5, home of where it started 11 years ago with a full blown Homecoming weekend to celebrate the kick off of another year of good times, good friends, and two wheels.

The homecoming theme is “Desert Disco” and the official homecoming “party” is Sat night so plan those outfits accordingly as there will be prizes, a crowning of the furthest rider as our “queen” and so much more!

We’ve rented out the entire Palm Canyon Resort to host an incredible weekend of riding. This location looks more like a western town with beautifully kept hotel rooms, glamping units, camping, and 80ft pull through RV spots for those who need more space or want to bring their off-road vehicles. Each camping spot has power, water, and access to hot showers, clean toilets, hot tubs and pools!

Space is limited so book your spot before we sell out!

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–

Stock # 13666 is a 2015 Black/Silver Harley-Davidson DYNA LOW RIDER FXDL with only 12136.00 miles!

This bike is a super clean Dyna low rider done right and some of the features/Add-ons on this bike are

* 103c.i.Motor with a 6-Speed trans.
* Stainless Bassani Exhaust and a Arlen Ness high flo air cleaner
* Chrome mid controls-shifter-pegs
* Legends rear adjustable shocks
* Crash bar with sliders
* MX style risers and bars with
* Chrome levers
* Dual front disc brakes
* Two-tone paint

This bike is only $14,500.00

Plus license, $85.00 documentation fee, and local sales tax. NO HIDDEN FEES like some dealers. And we have no reconditioning or prep fees. This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 92-point safety/mechanical/structural inspection.This motorcycle has not been refurbished and does not come with any warranty expressed or implied! EXTENDED WARRANTIES are available!

Fill out an online application today. We have EZ FINANCING

Lifestyle Cycles is located at 1510 State College Blvd,Anaheim,CA,92806. Open 7 days a week.

NOT LOCAL? WE HAVE SHIPPING AVAILABLE! Call today (714) 490-0155.

Please contact me at
buffie@lifestylecycles.com

WEBSITE REVIEW—Flirty Neighbors

Here is the synopsis. A website for the lonely called Flirty Neighbors. It seems to incorporate all kinds of women. The age brackets I was doing research on is 47 to 67. Boredom is a finicky mistress.

Well Keith there are many subcategories in this environment. We have women putting hits on my portfolio from all over the country. I will get into the categories in a moment.

We know that entertainment isn’t cheap. A bored biker can get really get screwed up in this program. You have to register, and your portfolio becomes part of their file to use for the female or male applicants.

The price is thirty dollars for about five visits to whomever is in the files of persons. Do we get entertained by applicants or do we go to the strip joint for a thirty-dollar lap dance?

I just want to make the biker community aware of the society snares of our brothers and sisters.

–Gearhead

ROGUE’S HISTORY LESSON OF THE WEEK—

In 1915, Effie Hotchkiss bought a new Harley-Davidson and attached a sidecar to carry her mother, Avis, as a passenger.

The pair then set out from Brooklyn to see the Panama Pacific International Exhibition in San Francisco. Avis had instilled confidence in her daughter, and when asked if she had fears about the arduous cross-country journey, Avis replied, “I do not fear breakdowns, for Effie, being a most careful driver, is a good mechanic and does her own repairing with her own tools.”

The pair were the first women to cross America by motorbike, at a time when the roads, where they existed, were simply horrendous. After visiting the Pacific Coast, the pair rode back to Brooklyn, for an epic 9,000-mile journey.

–Rogue
Senior Editor
Bikernet.com™

A SIGNIFICANT QUOTE OF THE WEEK—

“A man does what he must – in spite of personal consequences, in spite of obstacles and dangers and pressures – and that is the basis of all human morality.”
~ John F. Kennedy

THE WOLFPACK ROAMS DEADWOOD–
STEP INTO DEADWOOD, WHERE DESIRE AND DANGER COLLIDE DESIRE IN DEADWOOD

In 1876 Dakota Territory, Deadwood is the most devilish and delightful, wildest and wickedest town on the frontier.

Tansy Wiley, with a cloudy past, is hiding behind the name Jigger Crown and fears Bolton is tracking her. But when she rescues the handsome stranger from the saloon next door and chaos erupts—there to capture her or not—Bolton wants the sexy adventuress.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU PUT A FOSSIL FUEL EXEC IN CHARGE OF SOLVING CLIMAT CHANGE–

https://time.com/6335225/sultan-al-jaber-cop28-interview/

Sultan Al Jaber, the Ph.D. economist turned renewable-­energy executive turned ADNOC CEO, who is presiding over the U.N. climate conference to be held in Dubai in December. The conference, known as COP28, comes as, at the close of the hottest year on record, scientific consensus demands that we cut fossil-fuel use right now. At the same time, money continues to flow into fossil fuels; more than $1 trillion in new funding was invested this year alone, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).

Al Jaber, as the head of both COP28 and one of the world’s largest fossil-fuel companies, is tasked with reconciling those realities. Sitting in a meeting room at the Emirates Palace hotel dressed in the traditional white thobe and sneakers, he is both a target for criticism and a symbol of possibility.

“It’s so unfortunate real journalism doesn’t exist much anymore. This isn’t the hottest year on record, not by a long shot. There is no Climate Consensus and there is no Climate Emergency that needs to be dealt with by eliminating our much needed Petroleum products. Oops.”
–Bandit

Registrations open for 2024 Budweis Indian Motorcycle Custom Show

The only custom show 100% dedicated to Indian Motorcycles

American Motorcycle Dealer “Approved” status

Visionary and “Godfather of Baggers”, Brian Klock, joins as President of the Jury

Pre-registration guarantees entry and includes three complimentary tickets

Registrations are now open for the third edition of the Budweis Custom Indian Motorcycle Show (BCS) where passion, creativity, and the roar of engines come together in a celebration of two-wheeled artistry. The AMD-Approved event, and the only custom show to be 100% dedicated Indian Motorcycle, builds on the success of last year and promises an even grander spectacle with the entirety of hall R1 dedicated to the custom show during the Indian Riders Fest in Ceské Budejovice (Budweis), Czech Republic, from June 13 to 16, 2024.

“There isn’t much in life that gets me more excited than a custom motorcycle show. As a designer and custom builder, I really feed on that creative energy. With the BCS totally focussed on Indian Motorcycle, it is a standout event for me. As a long time Indian Motorcycle fan from way back as a kid, the growth of this show in such a short time is food for my soul. The 2023 class winners were exceptional, and I’m looking forward seeing the creativity and ingenuity infused in metal, chrome and paint at BCS24,” said Ola Stenegärd, Director of Product Design for Indian Motorcycle

BCS24 is not just a display of chrome and steel; it is a celebration of the extraordinary craftsmanship of European custom bike builders and Indian Motorcycle dealers. Committed to fostering a community of creativity, the BCS welcomes builders of all levels, from aspiring rookies to seasoned veterans and with more exhibition space than ever before, the highly anticipated event promises an eclectic collection of innovative, and skilfully crafted motorcycles.

With its importance in the global custom scene recognised by American Motorcycle Dealer magazine conferring their approved show status to the BCS for a second year, the international judging panel is also bolstered by Brian Klock, President of Klock Werks, joining as President of the Jury. Inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2012, Brian Klock is a standout name in the industry and is acclaimed as the “Godfather of Baggers” with a plethora of awards and a long association with Indian Motorcycle.

During the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Klock confirmed his acceptance of the Presidency saying, “Indian Motorcycle is near and dear to my heart. Having been part of the aftermarket advisory team since 2014 and designing many of the limited editions coming out of the factory, just like Ola, a custom show dedicated to Indian Motorcycle is something I’m really excited about. I cannot wait to meet everyone at Budweis next year and see their craftsmanship and incredible skills.”

Klock, his wife Vanessa, and other dignitaries including Stenegärd and Onno Wieringa, Official AMD World Championship photographer, will evaluate the entrants in seven distinct classes with one build also being awarded the prestigious Best In Show trophy.

In a shake-up to last year’s classes, the ClubStyle/Performance Baggers class has been introduced in keeping with current trends and, to allow even more creativity, the new Freestyle class is the only category where entrants do not need to be road legal. However, entries in all classes must be able to start and ride their builds onto the podium to accept their awards.

The seven classes designed to ensure that every participant has an opportunity to showcase their unique style and creativity are as follows:

• Indian Scout
• Indian Chief / Non-Fairing
• Indian Motorcycle Bagger
• Indian Motorcycle Vintage
• Indian FTR / Sportbike
• Indian Motorcycle Freestyle
• Indian Motorcycle ClubStyle / Performance Bagger

While ride-in entries will be accepted until Saturday, June 15, potential participants are encouraged to secure their spots through pre-registration. Pre-registration not only guarantees a place in the spotlight but also includes three complimentary entry tickets to the Indian Riders Fest 2024. Pre-registration closes on Friday, May 31, 2024. To register an entry, please use the form at:

www.budweiscustom.show/#BCS24form

For more information about the 2024 Budweis Indian Motorcycle Show visit www.budweiscustom.show
Contact email for BCS24: customshow@indianridersfest.eu

Honda CB350 confirmed for launch in Japan with a new name and colours

Almost within a week of India launch, Honda Japan has announced that the new CB350 retro-styled motorcycle will go on sale in its home market. The new Honda CB350 has been christened as the new ‘GB350 C’ in Japan and will also get new colour options in the land of the rising sun. The new CB350 was launched earlier this month and comes closer than ever to challenging the Royal Enfield Classic 350 in the segment.

SOURCE: https://www.msn.com/en-in/autos/news/new-honda-cb350-confirmed-for-launch-in-japan-with-a-new-name-and-colours/ar-AA1khmuS

–Wayfarer
International Correspondent
Bikernet News Desk

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS—One of my accomplishments for this week was a major task. I had to remove the ’58 from the Deadwood garage and find a temporary home or a repair location. Jason was set to replace the garage doors.

I had no brakes and no gears to move. I solved the issues and found my original mechanic had an opening at his shop in Whitewood 15 miles away. It was shaky, the brakes faded, but I made it through the Crooked Canyon.

Received a text message from Cabana Dan this morning revealing his wife’s Christmas present. What a kick, the Coney Island special from 1980. Check the paint and the owner must have been terrified of getting rear-ended.

He’s not going to do anything to it, but a tune-up and put the electric starter back on it. He found it in Ohio.

Here’s a shot of Micah’s recent customer project. He’s the master. He called me about the carb. He wants an early S&S L carb.

Meanwhile back in the shop I’m rebuilding John’s 1967 4-speed transmission and taking pictures of all the parts I’m digging up out of the Bikernet bins and lockers.

My grandson, Frankie, is working on his winter 5-Ball clothing line.

Dan’s also trying to score this old J twin, but after trying for 15 years it might go to his cousin’s uncle. Seems the school teacher liked him better…

Hang on for the holidays.

–Bandit

Gabriel rode hard, fought hard and searched his soul year after year after he found himself in the Chopper homeland of Sturgis, South Dakota. He ultimately discovered a spot of land in Boulder Canyon, containing a modest cabin and a heated shop space to die for, but a double shot of Jack on the rocks at the Oasis lounge in downtown became his solace from his haunting blues.

He leaned on the bar, all 6’3” and 220 pounds with a massive full head of hair and a full beard. Whispering to the bartender, a worn out blonde who got dumped during the rally five years ago, he yearned for female companionship. He drank almost every evening and watched the holidays roll into town.

Gabriel recently started smoking cigars. He ate steak tips and French fries from the Loud American club down the empty street. Something clawed at him like a bad dream, a scolding mother or the fight, when he nearly killed a man in a blind rage. He felt like a soldier missing an arm.

“What’s eating at you,” Shirley said and knew when to pour him another drink.

“I don’t know,” Gabriel said. “I can’t figure it out.”

“Was it a girl?” Shirley muttered making change. “It usually is.”

“There’s been a few,” Gabriel said and took a swig of the Jack before the ice fully melted. “There was one.” His voice drifted off.

“What happened?” Shirley wasn’t half-bad looking as she shifted her large boobs under her taught bra straps and her succulent cleavage jiggled, but Gabriel wasn’t having any of this local broad. His soul searched but he didn’t understand the rule.

“She was the best,” Gabriel stumbled as if he tripped over a bottle of whiskey. “I couldn’t settle down, I had to ride.”

“Where?” Shirley asked but wasn’t waiting for an answer. A young cowboy pushed in the front door and made for the bar with a bag of sliced sausages churned with spices and peppers from a recently cleaned deer.

Gabriel looked at the Christmas lights flickering through the half empty tumbler of Jack Daniels. He looked up as Shirley’s mini-skirt bouncing down the rubber pads that insulated the concrete deck from her synthetic work flats. She still looked cute and her butt bubbled to the rhythm of the country song drifting from the flashy jute box, “Just give me a girl…” the singer said over and over.

Gabriel gathered up his gear and stepped out of the swinging doors into the Sturgis night. He looked up and down the empty fall street and made his way to the only friend he had, his rusting Softail with upsweeps and high-bars. Christmas cheer began to lighten the street with glistening ornaments and shimmering garlands.

Shortly before Thanksgiving, the weather was still dry and reached 60 degrees during the day. He wasn’t taking care of personal business and his bike looked grubby and grimy.

He worked in gold mine above Lead, and his pad was 3/4s the way up Boulder Canyon, but still held a Sturgis address. He turned off off Eddy Lane near where the famous photographer lived, Buck Lovell, before he took his life in Deadwood.

His home was a biker’s nirvana, warm, on a couple of acres in the Jack Pine strewn forest with a view of the rolling Black Hills around it. His shop, although beautifully insulated and drywalled with windows to the forest was unkept, held just a few active tools and an FXR manual. He also had a J&P catalog and a small work bench with one vice, still not bolted down. All his remaining tools and equipment were sequestered in crates and boxes. The unused shop was a biker’s dream, but no projects promised action on lifts even after three years.

The bastards turned off daylight savings time and darkness swept the canyon way too early. He crawled into bed with his socks on and fell asleep thinking about his conversation with Shirley and the girl who got away. She wasn’t the hottest broad on the block, but she worked with him, supported him and stood by him.

His depressed pattern started again the next morning when he awoke, made strong coffee and stumbled into the shower. He wound his way up to Lead where he operated an excavator linked to a massive drill bit and dug from 8 to 5, with an hour for lunch and usually an El Pollo burrito and a Coke. He checked out the cute Hispanic girl behind the counter with long flowing hair and dark mascara made up eyes. She wore a tight skirt cupping the ass he would like to grasp with his dirty hands.

She winked at him and he pulled on his long full beard and wondered what she saw in his dusty overalls and flannels. He piled rock until the angle of repose took over and started another pile. An engineer guided his mindless operation as he grabbed a rubber grip coated lever and started to drill another hole. Vibration and noise surrounded him.

At 5:00 he made his way to his Harley and started to think about the snowfall coming. He would need another way to get to work. By 5:30 he was slouched over the Oasis bar on his favorite rickety stool. Shirley rushed to his spot on the horseshoe bar.

“The usual?” She asked. Her smile bright and glistening. Her fingernails adorned with a copper metalflake coating glistened and sparkled as Christmas lights came to life. The soft rouge on her cheeks would warm any new customer.

“Yep,” Gabriel said. “Jack on the rocks.” As she walked away her mini-skirt revealed freshly shaved legs. The enhanced softness, the curves of her calves and the alluring motion of her thighs made him want to break his rule.

She returned with his tumbler briming; the amber shared only with the correct number of ice cubes. He took a sip and immediately felt pain relief.

“How are you feeling today?” Shirley asked concerned.

“It just doesn’t go away,” Gabriel said and lit a cigar, the brown tint pushing into his mustache.

“It will,” Shirley muttered and dashed off to another customer. She really wasn’t interested. She’d heard it all before.

Downtown Sturgis felt the Holiday spirit with the Harley-Davidson block fully adorned with crimson and sparkling white decorations. Gabriel wasn’t feeling it, when in walked a semi-tall broad wearing a business suit.

Gabriel’s compressed-leather upholstered barstool positioned him, so he could see the entrance on main and the entrance to the side street, Harley Avenue.

He faced the side street but couldn’t mistake the woman in the warm red overcoat with a mink collar. Her high-lighted brunette locks bounced perfectly on her shoulders. She immediately opened her coat to reveal soft white cleavage framed with a matching set of pearls perfectly enhanced with her dainty pearl and diamond earrings.

Like a Ferrari rolling into a biker bar parking lot, she appeared like a bastion of wealth and sex from her high-heals, the amber stockings, her perfectly contoured body, the brass buttons glimmering against her vest and the satin white unbuttoned blouse.

She threw open the overcoat and removed her cashmere scarf. Her brown eyes scanned the bar and suddenly contacted Gabriel. In the flash of a camera, he sat up straight, pulled at his dusty beard and yanked his long thick hair into a pony tail and tied it off.

With each carefully placed female step, his muscles twitched, the dust disappeared from his work boots and his buckle shinned for the first time in months. She moved around him and looked at the leather pad on the adjacent wooden barstool.

“May I?” She asked her voice as soft as an Al Green song.

“Of course,” he stammered.

Gabriel stood briskly and helped her remove her overcoat. He hung it on a brass hook on the massive wooden pole at the corner of the bar.

She smiled and moved over the barstool as if it was her golden thrown, her face as warm as a glowing candle. Thin and angular, shapely with her torso enhanced with magic boobs she sat.

Shirley approached glistening. Even she blushed slightly as she asked. “What can I get you?”

“Make it an old fashion,” she said and turned to Gabriel as if they were old friends. She smiled and said, “Can I get you anything?”

That’s when it happened. He looked into her soft brown eyes as she slipped a delicate hand over his thigh. Her eyebrows, perfectly tattooed, eyelashes enhanced, lips Botox augmented, luring, sparkling red lipstick aligned with those lips didn’t mean a fucking thing. She had her hand on his thigh.

Gabriel tingled everywhere. His heart pounded and he began to melt. He managed to sputter. “What’s your name?”

“Bethany,” she said, took a sip of her drink and licked her luscious lips. Then in walked two big road workers wearing their flourscent vests splattered with asphalt tar. They joked and hollered to Shirley for beers. The taller one turned toward the bar and froze.

Bethany’s sleek palm left Gabriel’s thigh abruptly. She stood, took a deep slug of her Old fashion and snatched her overcoat off the hook.

The big man sneered at her but didn’t say a word. Suddenly, Bethany foamed at the mouth in a psychotic rage and smeared her lipstick with the back of her hand. Gabriel stood, not knowing what to do or whom to do it to, but he suddenly understood the transformation he encountered and the thin veil of her allure.

Bethany stormed out the door. “Motherfucker,” was all she said and disappeared. The big man sat at the left corner and took a swallow of his beer and sighed. “She nearly destroyed my business and my family. I’m Fred,” he said and reached out for a friendly shake.

His partner rolled his eyes. “He’s right, she’s trouble.”

“She’s the hottest thing I ever had in bed, but then I knew my family came first,” Fred said and rubbed the stubble on his chin. “In fact, I need to finish this beer and head home. You’re lucky I came in.”

“Thanks, I think,” Gabriel said and took a slug of his glass of Jack.

“Do you have a family?” Fred asked. “My kids are more important than any roll in the hay.”

“No,” Gabriel said. “Well, I did have a supportive old lady who had two sons, but I didn’t stay.”

“Have you ever reached out?” Fred asked. “We all make mistakes.”

“I should have,” Gabriel said. “It’s been a while.”

“It’s never too late,” Fred said. “All the make-up and cologne in the world can’t hold a candle to the kids. We miss that too often. It’s all a rouse and cover-up for what lies beneath the big boobs and died hair.”

Fred and his partner finished their beers and hit the road home. Shirley returned to Gabriel. “Ready for another?”

“Not tonight,” Gabriel said reaching for his keys. “He was right. I need to make a call.”

Before he reached his bike the phone rang in Montana. “Hello,” Laurie said her voice as soft as floating clouds in the afternoon.

“Baby, it’s Gabriel,” He said. “I hope like hell you’re okay?”

There was a long hesitation and Gabriel weighed his options.

“I made the worst mistake of my life, leaving you and your sons,” Gabriel stammered.

If Gabriel could see her soft face, he would have seen the big tear form and roll down her soft cheek.

“Could we, would we have a shot again,” Gabriel stumbled.

“Who’s that on the phone,” a rough voice jarred the mood.

“Please,” was the only word she said and the line went dead.

For the first time in years, Gabriel stood upright straight and narrow. He looked at the dark sky, but the brilliant flickering stars reached out to him for action. He refueled at the edge of town and rode to his house like his pants were on fire.

He showered and suited up for a long ride from Sturgis to Billings, Montana. He’d find her. He hit the road out of Boulder Canyon and down the winding 85 to interstate 90 heading due West into Wyoming and Gillett his first gas stop. His FXR felt like a happy horse bolting somewhere meaningful. The mag wheels and tires warmed the cold pavement at 80 mph for the 347 mile run. He gassed up, but the low temps jarred his bones.

The truck stop had little to offer except Christmas decorations and Santa shit. He bought a red and white felt outfit, stuffed it with newspapers and hit the road.

He rode hard for another 100 or so miles through Buffalo and into Sheridan, where he stopped for gas, rags and polish. He paused for 20 and detailed his motorcycle for the first time in years.

He found a fluffy Santa hat, which he stuffed inside his gear and kept rolling. He remembered her smile, how hard she worked as a bookkeeper and her love for her two young men. As he entered Hardin Montana his phone pinged with her address and one word, “Hurry.”

He googled the directions, gassed up and hit the road. He pondered the wicked bitch who lured him away and what Laurie said as she let him go. “My boys come first.” That was just three years ago, and the bimbo was gone in a month. He continued to roam but never understood what he needed until now.

Until Fred’s words struck home, he didn’t realize the true code of the west: The kid’s come first. He pushed into the outskirts of Billings and found Paradise Mobil Home Park, a 30-year-old dilapidated home park full of drunks, dealers and the destitute. He slipped behind the tilting home beneath the flickering, half-lit, neon sign with a rusting Office sign above the door. He donned his full-on Santa gear and rolled down the lane looking for number 13.

As he approached a beer bottle broke a side window and a man’s voice hollered. “I hate your kids.” Gabriel grabbed an aluminum baseball bat from the tall weeds and knocked on the door.

“What the fuck,” the fat bastard shouted in a drunken slur as he yanked open the door. Santa stood in front of him at the bottom of the narrow metal steps wearing shades and holding an old, tarnished baseball bat.

“Merry Christmas, motherfucker,” Gabriel said, stepped forward and drove the bat into the man’s gut, yanked it back and drove it under his jaw. He stormed up the steps, grabbed the man by the hair and pulled him out of the motorhome and into the dirt at the bottom of the steps.

The drunk scramble to his feet, grabbed a steel tubing lawn chair and smacked Gabriel. He wasn’t finished yet. Equal in height, Gabriel staggered back. He had a gym in his log cabin basement, but it only gathered dust.

Gabriel lost his bat in the weeds as the over-weight drunk charged, tackling him. Fists flying Gabriel blocked most and rolled over onto the gasping man. They rolled again and jumped to their feet. He was over-weight and had 30 pounds on Gabriel. He reached behind his waist and out came a long bowie knife. He grinned and lashed out. The treacherous blade slit the white fluffy collar beneath Gabiel’s chin. Gab stepped back to assess his options and pushed his disheveled Santa hat back in place, when one of Kate’s sons reached out with the bat.

Gabriel grabbed it, side-stepped the knife and finished fatboy’s jaw. He jumped down and snatched the long bowie-knife and handed it to the kid. “Your first Christmas present.”

Laurie ran down the steps and into Gabriel’s arms. Nick and Ron, her son’s came to his side. Gabriel kissed Laurie deeply and turned to her boys.

“It’s Christmas time, goddammit,” Gabriel said. “We’ve got shit to do. Load up. Let’s hit the road.”

They didn’t hesitate. In short moments the boys and Laurie loaded her SUV, while Gabriel kept an eye on the ex in the weeds, nursing a broken jaw. Gabriel decorated the rails above the car with red and chromed garlands. “Who’s going to ride with me,” he said as the oldest son climbed into the SUV with his mom and Ron, the younger one headed for the FXR.

“Let’s ride to your Christmas present,” Gabriel. “It’s been waiting for you guys. I knew I bought that place for a reason…”

Images by Wayfarer

Hey,

I want to wish everyone the best Thanksgiving ever. We are actually living in the best of times. This next year could be the most comfortable and rewarding for the human race in the history of mankind.

What the hell does that say for bikers? We are capable of riding all over the globe, almost. We can build any motorcycle from something technologically advanced to a 1913 Board-track racer. We can build and restore Panheads and Knuckleheads forever and keep them alive.

We can build any chopper we can dream up with stock replacement frames,

Paughco springers, you name it, it’s possible. We can build and tool up any shop and teach our kids how to build, weld, machine, you name it.

Hell, there’s more whiskey choices than ever before. The Buffalo Chip has Whiskey, Jesse James has whiskey and so does Mike Ballard at the Full Throttle Saloon.

So, have a great time, rejoice, and next year, let’s kick some ass.

Let’s hit the news.

Hang on for the holidays.

–Bandit

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https://5-ballgarage.com/

5-BALL INDUSTRIES GIVES INTO BLACK FRIDAY PROMOS–

Okay, every business across the globe is pushing Black Friday Deals. We give in. If you buy anything from the 5-Ball Garage.com I will throw in a signed book. If you buy a book I will toss in another and sign both of them.

There you have it, the 5-Ball Garage Black Friday sale.

–Bandit

This Friday & Saturday!!

NOVEMBER 24 – 25

DON’T MISS THE GRANDADDY OF ALL CHAMPIONSHIP MIDGET AUTO RACES

GET TICKETS — CLICK HERE

The 82nd Turkey Night Grand Prix

At The Best Little Dirt Track in America!!

FRIDAY & SATURDAY
November 24 – November 25
Gates at 3pm / Racing at 5pm

Ventura Raceway
10 West Harbor Boulevard Ventura, CA 93001
Just steps from the surf and Ventura Country Fairgrounds
right off the 101 Freeway!!

Purchase Tickets in Advance!
$24 – 45
Gates open at 3pm
Racing begins at 5pm on Friday
and the Grand Prix is on Saturday

GET TICKETS BY CLICKING HERE
Or Call Ventura Raceway 805-648-7223 or 805-443-4694

THE TURKEY NIGHT GRAND PRIX IS THE GREATEST TRADITION IN MIDGET RACING, DATING BACK TO ITS INAUGURAL EVENT WON BY BOB SWANSON IN 1934. J.C. AGAJANIAN AND HIS FAMILY HAVE CONTINUED TO PROMOTE THIS WINTER CLASSIC FOR 68 YEARS.

WINNERS OF THIS GRAND EVENT INCLUDE SUCH NAMES AS PARNELLI JONES, A.J. FOYT, TONY STEWART, KYLE LARSON, GARY AND TONY BETTENHAUSEN, BILLY VUVOVICH, JOHNNIE PARSONS, CHRISTOPHER BELL AND THE LIST GOES ON….
**PLUS THE BIG HORSEPOWER USAC WEST COAST 360 SPRINT CARS WITH OVER FIFTY DRIVERS**

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