A Review by J.J. Solari

Hells Angel… And Beyond, by George Christie

The first sentence of Chapter 13 of this 16-chapter book is….. “Solitary confinement is the worst thing one man can do to another.” Now, since this is a “book review” and since I don’t know this guy, but I do know who he is, mostly from the “news,” once I got to the above-mentioned sentence in the course of my already having read the first 12 chapters of the book – which I was reading not to give a “report” on it but to get some familiarity with the fellow, from, ya know, his own self, rather than from the news…….where was I. Oh yeah: so I’m reading this here book, and most of it has been read and stuff, I’m almost done, and I’m goin’ along fine, and then I get to this sentence, the opening sentence of chapter 13.

Click here to read this detailed review by J.J.only on Bikernet.com

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Get the culture that matters — visit our riveting reviews section: https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Movies___Music_Reviews.aspx

100 word fiction contest continues…. #100WFC

Shallow Grave
by Rhys
(illustration by Wayfarer)

Gary finished his Triumph chopper metal flake gold with helmet to match. Out for a shakedown run. Cruising back roads all seemed good, until a truck rounded the bend on the wrong side. Both rider and bike slid off the road.

Gary awoke in the ditch his bike several feet away. In incredible deep pain, a bone protruded through his jeans. He yanked off his helmet and flung it up onto the road hoping a passerby would see it. A car stopped. The driver snatched the lid and left. Did he hear Gary’s screams?

The DWP crew found Gary’s lifeless body a week later.

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Yup, its a weekly contest open to all. Just sign up for the free weekly newsletter by clicking here.

Then email us your 100 word limit fiction to the editor wayfarer@bikernet.com

WINNERS SO FAR:
1. for the month of May 2023: “Been There Done That” by Steven Sanner
2. for the month of June 2023: “A Hundred” by Chris Dutcher
3. for the month of July 2023: “First Time” by Rhys
4. for the month of August 2023: “Hilary” by Gearhead

2024 KAWASAKI KX™450, KX™450X AND KX™ 50th ANNIVERSARY EDITION MOTORCYCLES

THE BIKE THAT BUILDS CHAMPIONS

Over the last 50 years, the Kawasaki KX™ brand of motorcycles has helped pave the path to championships for the some of the most popular motocross racers of all time. Today, the KX family remains one of the most dominant motocross and supercross brand of motorcycles available, with the all-new KX™450 once again raising the bar. With development cues taken from the Monster Energy® Kawasaki factory racing team, the all-new 2024 KX450 is one of the strongest and race-ready machines on the dirt. To commemorate the celebration and success of 50 years of the KX brand, Kawasaki is pleased to announce the release of 50th Anniversary Edition motorcycles. Equipped with a limited retro-inspired KX shroud graphic, a Uni-Trak swingarm graphic, blue seat, silver wheels and white fork guards, the 2024 KX250 50th Anniversary Edition and the KX450 50th Anniversary Edition motorcycles will spark nostalgia and tug at the heartstrings of motocross enthusiasts across the globe.

ALL-NEW 2024 KAWASAKI KX™450 HIGHLIGHTS:

• NEW Engine tuning
• NEW Cylinder head
• NEW Straight exhaust port and center exhaust
• NEW Smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX*
• NEW Handlebar-mounted traction control switch
• NEW Brembo brake system
• NEW Lightweight aluminum perimeter frame
• NEW ODI Lock-On grips
• NEW Easy-to-remove side cover
• NEW Slim ergonomic bodywork
• NEW Kawasaki TRaction Control and riding modes

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Stay updated, stay ahead of the curve…with Bikernet Free Weekly Newsletter, click to get going!

Hey,

I said it was the odd Bikernet Weekly news, because we are living in strange times, but there’s always hope. One of our major parties, not even a splinter group, is trying to destroy America. We are actually living in the Best of Times, and everyone has the opportunity to grow, build, learn, better themselves and prosper.

Others have bad opportunities, because we are living in easy times, easy to hate, destroy, damage and teardown. They actually want to send us back to bad times, because they can. Why would they have any other reason.

I say there’s hope, because like this weekend, brothers and sisters from all over the country are meeting in Harrisburg, PA to discuss strategies for freedom at the Meeting of the Minds. It’s not too late to be a part of the action. There’s always hope.

Here’s a bit of positive news from last week:

HR 1435 just passed 222-190. That bill would stop internal combustion engine bans. All the house Republicans voted for it plus 8 democrats, amazing. It doesn’t have a prayer in the Senate and Joe Biden won’t sign it unless… Who the fuck knows?

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.

OUTLAW JUSTICE BACK IN PRINT—

After it sold out 20 years ago, Outlaw Justice has only been available in Bandit’s Cantina. Through new technology, Kindle, help from Kate Meadows in Rapid City, her editor/ designer Trisha and many hours of reading and re-reading we finally have an updated version ready for sale.

Check out the 5-Ball Garage Shop for books, leathers and bling.

–K. Randall Ball, (Keith “Bandit” Ball)

100-WORD FICTION WINNER FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST— GEARHEAD Wins.

Hilary
by Gearhead

We rode from Northern Cal. The rain came down in buckets. I pulled off under the redwoods in Big Sur. My wife crawled into the back seat of a car. I threw a sleeping bag on the ground under a leaking makeshift lean-to. It didn’t stop raining.

The next morning the fog threatened like a dense cloud of gray paint, and my wife said, “It won’t lift until late afternoon.” We had to ride.

We packed up and pull out in the rain moments before the murkiness engulfed the highway. We fought downpours, the cloud of doom, wrecked cars, 18-wheelers, dead animals and limited vision until we caught the glimmer of Santa Barbara just before nightfall. We slipped the veil of death once more.

“This piece speaks to rides we all encounter and even our daily adventures on two-wheels. Well done.” –Bandit

Read all contest entries and list of winners at:

SEMA ACTION NETWORK ALERT—

House Passes Bill to Stop California’s ICE Vehicle Ban. Quick, reach out to your Senators.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the “Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act” (H.R. 1435), which now awaits consideration in the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee. This SAN-supported bill seeks to preserve vehicle choice for consumers and prevent the State of California from choosing only one form of technology (such as electric vehicles) over the many others to achieve their emission reduction goals.

The “Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act” has also been introduced in the Senate (S. 2090), which includes the same text as H.R. 1435.

“Click and let your Senators know how you feel.” –Bandit

THE REAL BATTLE GROUND–Order Clintel’s unique and critical analysis of AR6 and support us!

The Frozen Climate Views of the IPCC is by far the most important publication in the history of the Clintel Foundation. The book came about through the cooperation of ten scientists and experts from the international Clintel network, including Canadian Ross McKitrick (known for his criticism of the hockey stick graph), Italian Nicola Scafetta (known for his work on the influence of the Sun on our climate) and Fritz Vahrenholt (known in Germany because of his book Die Kalte Sonne).

In the book we analyze two vast parts (the Working Group I and II report) of the most recent IPCC report AR6. In thirteen chapters we evaluate by theme whether the IPCC did a good job.

In short, we conclude that the IPCC has made several serious mistakes. These mistakes all point in the same direction: they make climate change ‘worse’. Some of our conclusions are frankly shocking, because the IPCC acted so shamelessly.

In one particular instance, the IPCC ignored almost all literature (on the subject of damage due to extreme weather) and leaned on one (flawed!) study that presented the apparently preferred conclusion (i.e. a claimed rise in damage by CO2).

See a presentation of the results by Marcel Crok here

Order the book and support Clintel
Not surprisingly, the book was completely ignored by the mainstream media. So, we will have to remain patient and keep hammering on the contents of the book. Sooner or later, the IPCC will have to deal with our criticism because it is so devastating.

The publication of the book was coordinated by the American author Andy May and Marcel Crok, the director and founder of Clintel. They have now made their research avalaible as e-book and as paperback as well.

For 35 euro’s (including international shipping) you can order a signed copy (by Marcel Crok) of the book from Clintel. This would also mean a little bit of support for Clintel. More support for this important project, which is far from finished for Clintel, is of course more than welcome. You can do this through a donation.

Or please, become a Friend of Clintel and receive a signed copy of the book as a welcome gift!

Thank you in advance!

Guus Berkhout & Marcel Crok
Founders Clintel

THIS JUST IN FROM THE BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER IN WEST LOS ANGELES–

Outcome of consuming protein supplements

What could be the results of consuming protein supplements

In this brief article, we will review what happens to people who consume protein powder every day; what are some affects you can expect to see.

Whey protein is the most popular supplement for those who exercise regularly and compete in any sport as a professional or even as an amateur. It’s a healthy milk-based vegetarian product. As with consumption of anything, how and when you consume such supplements may cause minor to major differences in results when compared to fellow athletes.

Not just sports professionals, even office-goers today grab a whey protein milkshake as part of their breakfast to help them endure the city life and long hours at offices.

Protein itself is an essential macronutrient every human body needs for proper functioning. However, your daily diet or lifestyle may not always allow you to consume required amount of various vegetarian and non-vegetarian sources of protein, or digest those foods daily for that matter. Hence arises the need for a protein supplement in the diet.

So what will happen if you consume protein supplements (protein powder) everyday?

1. It results in healthy blood pressure
2. Helps maintain healthy body-weight
3. Gains in muscle development
4. Not known to cause any addiction nor dependence to whey
5. Using poor quality protein brands is known to result in exposure to heavy metals including arsenic, cadmium, mercury and lead. Fly-by-night brands or fake and counterfeit protein products may have such dangerous metals. Chronic exposure can result in development of renal disease, thyroid disruption, weakened bones and neurological dysfunction.

Check the “Country of Origin” of the products. Additionally, you can look where and who has manufactured the product and manufacturing has been undertaken for which company / brand. Is it a licensed version of a foreign brand?

Look for third-party tested products and seek out peer-review regarding which brands are of repute in the multi-billion dollar supplements industry.

While this article only mentions Whey protein, there are over two dozen other types of popular supplements, some have been tested for decades and some which are recent with unknown long-term usage effects.

Always check if your protein product is filled with sugar or has ingredients you actually need and paid for.

So, is Protein Powders safe and good for use?

1. A balanced diet can contain protein powders as another healthy part among other food products.
2. Ensure you follow consumption guideline and note it in your exercise log-book.
3. Use the protein powder which is relevant to your physical needs and not based on what someone else in the sport, dojo, gym or office is using.
4. Choose a brand carefully after scrutiny of third-party verification, expiry dates, genuineness / seal. Get an invoice / bill from the seller when you purchase it.
5. It is a supplement. Do not use it as a meal replacement!

In conclusion, yes, whey protein is safe and reliable, yet you need to check and investigate the sources and brands and serving sizes appropriate to yourself.

Say no to drugs. Refer help for addicts and addictions or consult a medical practitioner.

Source: https://www.taijutsu.art/2023/09/outcome-of-consuming-protein-supplements.html

–from Dr. Way
Chief Nutritionist
Bikernet Medical Center
Homelessness Torn West Los Angeles, California

STURGIS 2024—Where will you be?

Seal the Deal on a Trip You’ll Remember for the Rest of Your Life

Sturgis Buffalo Chip 2024 Passes On Sale September 19

For a limited time only, when you reserve an Early Bird Pass you get a place to party and crash for a very special price.

2024 PRICES WILL NEVER BE THIS LOW AGAIN

Prices Will Jump Dramatically When the Pre-Sale Ends

Click through to explore your camping options now, because coveted RV camping areas, cabins and RV rentals are sure to go FAST!

In addition to a place to party and crash, you’ll get free entry to:

• Join the Best Party Anywhere® in 2024 before Presale Ends
• Explore Camping Options

BIKER QUOTE OF THE WEEK—

“Happiness isn’t around the corner, happiness IS the corner.”
– Unknown

–from the Sturgis Rally.com

BIKERNET TECH READER COMMENT—Custom Cycle Engineering Dyna Mounts:

Click here to read this Tech

Could you please send me the part # on these motor mounts front and rear and the link to order …I have all Dynas and I hate doing the Dyna dance…

–Ritchie Card
Navarre, FL

“I would suggest checking with Custom Cycle Engineering. I would need the year of your Dyna.” –Bandit

JUNKYARD GEMS– Finding value in toxic waste

No, this ain’t about Barn Find Hunter Tom Cotter’s book or life. The secret here is the technology used by UK Royal Mint.

There is a reason why most mobile phone and laptop sellers are willing to accept your old device in exchange for a small discount for purchasing a new device. They need the rare elements in digital devices and it’s not just about chip-shortage anymore.

Have you ever been in a situation that no one wants your old device even if you are giving it away for free? Well, if yes, have you cracked open your defunct device to tinker with it like a tot?

However, things might look upwards if this news catches on globally.

Put on your old iPods and start mining in your local landfill. Playlist? I just added “Digging in the dirt” by Peter Gabriel and “Dirt Rich” by Brothers Osborne.

BBC recently reported: The gold jewelry made from old phones

E-waste is mounting. Now the UK Royal Mint has found a new way to extract the precious metals hidden in laptops and phones to reduce our reliance on raw materials.

The Royal Mint has licensed chemical technology to extract gold from circuit boards found inside discarded laptops and old mobile phones.

Source : https://hotaircoldlove.substack.com/p/junkyard-gems

–Wayfarer
Editor: Bikernet Blog

[page break]

QUOTE OF THE WEEK-–

“The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them.” — Ernest Hemingway

–from Epoch times

ROCKET RACE CLUB: “INSANE AND FAST” SPRINT BIKES–

We’re big fans of European 1/8-mile sprint racing, where custom-built bikes from workshops across Europe compete head-to-head in old school-style drag races at events like the Glemseck 101.

The wildest, most creative of these was the highly popular Sultans of Sprint series, featuring a wildly diverse array of high-powered twin-cylinder sprint bikes, crazy costumes, and a whole lot of burning rubber:

“It’s perfectly normal to bump into zombies, yetis, Frankenstein and Hercules: Sultans wear crazy outfits. Because not only speed but also performance and power in the form of style, creativity and craziness are very much part of it. So, there are points for the race and points for creative design and party-hungry behaviour… Freaky is the name of the game.” –BMW Motorrad

Unfortunately, the Sultans of Sprint series was discontinued in 2019, leaving a quite a vacuum in the sport. Fortunately, Philipp Ludwig of Kraftstoffschmiede (one of the original Sultans founders) and Krzysztof “Kris” Szews of Man & the Machines, both of Rennstall Moto, stepped forward to found Rocket Race Club.

Check the whole story at Bikebound.com:
https://www.bikebound.com/2023/09/15/rocket-race-club/

FEATURE BIKE OF THE WEEK—from Nine Hills Motorcycles in Poland.

+48 783 563 275 ninehillsmotorcycles@9hm.pl
Kaldus, Chelmno, Poland

–Sam Burn
Feature Bike Editor
Bikernet.com™

WTF News for the Week– Acer forays into EVs, launches MUVI-125-4G bike with eBikeGo

MUVI 125 4G is the first vehicle to have the Acer insignia on it.

The EV wave is catching on with many companies coming forward to introduce their innovative solutions for sustainable mobility. The latest to join the bandwagon is the Taiwanese tech giant Acer which is known for its PCs, laptops and accessories.

At the ongoing e-mobility expo in Greater Noida (India), the brand unveiled its e-bike MUVI 125 4G. This is the first time that Acer is foraying into the EV segment, a significant milestone for the company.

Acer ebike’s standout features include swappable batteries as this could be a game changer in longer journeys. The lightweight yet robust chassis offers ease of movement and it comes with 16-inch wheels that offer stability and safety. It offers a top speed of up to 75 kmph and a range of 80km.

(Keep in mind, India is the world’s largest consumer of two-wheelers. Not surprisingly, Acer debuted the e-bike in India where they have a considerable market-share in entry-level laptops and authorised service centres.)

Read the madness in entirety at:
https://www.msn.com/en-in/lifestyle/shopping/acer-forays-into-evs-launches-muvi-125-4g-bike-with-ebikego/ar-AA1gIvXc

Wayfarer’s Note: In my previous editorial in Thursday News dated August 31, 2023 (Always Hope Bikernet Weekly News) I had mentioned how EV will have the same dependence and pollution as your electronic gadgets and gizmos. Well, here is the WTF news for the week. And yeah, I told you so!

Apple, Microsoft, Meta (Facebook), Google and others won’t be far behind. Especially, I would say the edge in competition lies with Apple. Why? Because of Steve Jobs’ vision and greed of controlling or “owning” the hardware and software on all Apple products. Their EV will truly be a corporate tool up your @$$.

Meanwhile, Google and social media majors will have plenty of data to own and sell since you are never ever going to read that lengthy “user agreement” that pops up whenever you create a new account or install a software, etc.

–Wayfarer
Mad Scientist
Bikernet.com

THE FEULING REPORT–
We’re diving deep into the new 121 CVO VVT engine and we’ve found some interesting changes the factory has made compared to the previous Milwaukee Eight models!
.
Check out what we’ve found and more on our YouTube Channel!

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1ZwrZv8zMPP8NmHO2gmeA

GAS PRICES HIT $7.05 IN CALIFORNIA—And the California authorities don’t care. In fact, they prefer the prices increase. Actually, they prefer that you don’t exist. There you have it. Just what you voted for, right?

–WTF, over?

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–

2019 FLTRXS Road Glide Special with only 13,252 miles!

Stock #13998

The Road Glides are one of the best H-D selections in a full dressed Bagger, or for some a performance race motorcycle, either way you will definitely want to be the person to own this bike!

* 107 Cubic Inch Engine
* Black Engine Guard
* Custom Rider Floorboards
* Harley Two Seater
* Custom Passenger Pegs
* 12-Inch Black Meathook Handlebars
* Beautiful Red Paintjob
* Dual Brake Discs
* These tires are magnificent and ready to have more miles under their tread!
* Custom Hand Grips
* Powerstands Racing Clutch and Brake Levers
* Dual Black Aftermarket Exhaust

This bike is only $21,995.00

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 visit www.LifestyleCycles.com or www.facebook.com/LifestyleCyclesUsedHarleys/

MASSIVE CELEBRATION IN INDIA THIS WEEK—

Here is a photo of an idol of Hindu God Ganesha. He is the son of the Mahadev (God of gods) Lord Shiva. This year, Lord Ganesha’s centenary is celebrated on Tuesday 19-September as per Hindu lunar calendar.

Gan-esha is derived from words that mean “first among the army of Gods”. Some academicians suggest, in ancient times, Ganesha, also commonly known as “Ganapati” was a God of war and was well represented with armies of various kingdoms who included soldiers mounted on elephants.

In modern times, Ganesha is known as “remover of all obstacles” and is always worshipped first before beginning any new work, project, or even ritual worship. For example: prayers to Ganesha before riding a new vehicle or prayers offered to Ganesha even if you want to do ritual worship of any other God or Goddess.

The Hindu pantheon and mythology is vast and elaborate, somewhat similar to Greek mythos, Egyptian, Roman and Nordic myths.

–U Dey
Fan and subscriber, Bikernet.com 

GLORY DAZE MOTORCYCLE SHOW— 

PITTSBURGH’S VINTAGE + CUSTOM MOTORCYCLE SHOW

Saturday, September 23, 2023

Noon – 7pm

Carrie Blast Furnaces
Carrie Furnace Blvd
Rankin, PA 15104

SPACE AGE HELMET COMMUNICATIONS COMING–Cardo Systems Announce New PACKTALK EDGE Half Helmet Kit and Shoei Adapter Kite

I have some exciting news to share – Cardo Systems responds to customer demand with the release of the new PACKTALK EDGE Half Helmet Kit and Shoei adapter kite. Cardo Systems, the global market leader in wireless communication systems for powersports, continues to expand accessories to meet the needs of their loyal consumers.

–Mistina
mistina@thebrandamp.com

BIKERNET GUN NUT REPORT UPDATE—

New Mexico Governor’s Unconstitutional Carry Ban Temporarily Halted, NRA Files Suit

On September 8, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Grisham (D) surprised her political opponents and allies when the politician purported to suspend the U.S. and New Mexico constitutions and state statute using a “public health emergency order.” The governor’s directive attempted to unilaterally prohibit law abiding gun owners from exercising their right to bear arms for 30 days in Albuquerque and the surrounding Bernalillo County.

Coming on the heels of the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, some of those tasked with enforcing the governor’s edict immediately recognized the improper measure as illegitimate and refused to enforce or defend it. In Bruen, the Court held, “the Second and Fourteenth Amendments protect an individual’s right to carry a handgun for self-defense outside the home.”

Further, Article II Section 6 of the New Mexico Constitution protects the right to bear arms. The provision does permit the state legislature to regulate “the carrying of concealed weapons” (within the bounds of the federal Second Amendment). However, the relevant provision states, “No law shall abridge the right of the citizen to keep and bear arms for security and defense.”

As some observers have pointed out, Grisham seemed to telegraph her intent to use “public health” as a justification for all manner of government control at the May 5 Johns Hopkins University Health Policy Forum. The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health is named for former New York City mayor and billionaire Michael Bloomberg, who has given over $3 billion to his alma mater. Bloomberg founded the gun control group Everytown for Gun Safety.

At the forum, Grisham stated, “Everything is a public health issue. Gun violence is a public health issue.”

Shortly after Grisham put forward her order, Bernalillo Sheriff John Allen issued a statement explaining, the temporary ban challenges the foundation of our Constitution, which I swore an oath to uphold. I am wary of placing my deputies in positions that could lead to civil liability conflicts, as well as the potential risks posed by prohibiting law-abiding citizens from their constitutional right to self-defense.

During a September 11 press conference, Sheriff Allen made clear that his office would not enforce the governor’s order.

On September 12, New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez notified Grisham that he would not defend her gun control order against litigation. In a letter to the governor, Torrez stated,

Though I recognize my statutory obligation as New Mexico’s chief legal officer to defend state officials when they are sued in their official capacity, my duty to uphold and defend the constitutional rights of every citizen takes precedence. Simply put, I do not believe that the Emergency Order will have any meaningful impact on public safety but, more importantly, I do not believe it passes constitutional muster.

On September 13, U.S. District Court Judge for the District of New Mexico David Urias granted a temporary restraining order blocking Grisham’s carry ban in response to a federal lawsuit filed by pro-gun groups. The governor’s outrageous conduct proved too much for the Biden appointee. Citing Bruen, District of Columbia v. Heller (2008), and McDonald v. Chicago (2010), Judge Urias acknowledged “given the directives and holdings of this Supreme Court precedent, the Court concludes that Plaintiffs have shown a substantial likelihood of success on the merits of their Second Amendment claim.”

Also on September 13, a group of U.S. Senators called on Attorney General Merrick Garland to vindicate New Mexicans’ Second Amendment rights. The senators, including John Kennedy (R-La.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), demanded that the Department of Justice “act swiftly to stop this unconstitutional power grab.” The group added that action is necessary “to show that this kind of unconstitutional abuse will not be tolerated in New Mexico or anywhere else in the United States.”

Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 242) provides, in part,

Whoever, under color of any law, statute, ordinance, regulation, or custom, willfully subjects any person in any State, Territory, Commonwealth, Possession, or District to the deprivation of any rights, privileges, or immunities secured or protected by the Constitution or laws of the United States… shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than one year, or both;

On September 14, NRA filed a suit challenging Grisham’s unconstitutional order in state court. Every Republican member of the New Mexico legislature, the Republican Party of New Mexico, and the Libertarian Party of New Mexico joined NRA as plaintiffs.

As previously noted, the New Mexico Constitution protects “the right of the citizen to keep and bear arms for security and defense.” In the case State Ex Rel. Whitehead v. Vescovi-Dial (1997), the Court of Appeals of New Mexico made clear that the state right to keep and bear arms provision “stands shoulder to shoulder with the most basic guarantees of individual liberty against the power of the state.”

Grisham’s order also presents separation of powers issues. The state Constitution vests legislative authority in the legislature. New Mexico law generally allows law-abiding individuals to carry firearms openly or concealed with a license. Grisham has a constitutional duty to execute state law—and the Constitution. She must allow people to exercise the legal rights granted to them. There are no exceptions. The Constitution does not take a vacation during so-called emergencies. The New Mexico Supreme Court directly told the governor this in Grisham v. Reeb (2020), making clear that the state’s Public Health Emergency Response Act’s “purpose is to … ‘provide the state of New Mexico with the ability to manage public health emergencies in a manner that protects civil rights and the liberties of individual persons.’”

On September 15, Grisham amended her order to limit the firearm prohibition to “public parks or playgrounds, or other public area provided for children to play in . . . .” This vague prohibition still has the same problems as the original order: it violates the right to keep and bear arms and the separation of powers.

Making matters even more interesting, on April 7, 2021, Grisham signed the New Mexico Civil Rights Act.

That law provides,

A public body or person acting on behalf of, under color of or within the course and scope of the authority of a public body shall not subject or cause to be subjected any resident of New Mexico or person within the state to deprivation of any rights, privileges or immunities secured pursuant to the bill of rights of the constitution of New Mexico.

Further, the act waives sovereign immunity for the government and persons working on its behalf and notes,

In any claim for damages or relief under the New Mexico Civil Rights Act, no public body or person acting on behalf of, under color of or within the course and scope of the authority of a public body shall enjoy the defense of qualified immunity for causing the deprivation of any rights, privileges or immunities secured by the bill of rights of the constitution of New Mexico.

A “public body” is defined to include, “a state or local government, an advisory board, a commission, an agency or an entity created by the constitution of New Mexico.”

Prevailing plaintiffs may secure up to $2 million in damages and attorney fees.

Gun rights supporters should continue to follow NRAILA.org for the latest on the effort to combat Grisham’s unconstitutional order and vindicate New Mexicans’ Second Amendment rights.

–NRA

[page break]

NEW 100-Word Fiction–

Gary finished his Triumph chopper metal flake gold with helmet to match. Out for a shakedown run. Cruising back roads all seemed good, until a truck rounded the bend on the wrong side. Both rider and bike slid off the road.

Gary awoke in the ditch his bike several feet away. In incredible pain, a bone protruded through his jeans. He yanked off his helmet and flung it up onto the road hoping a passerby would see it. A car stopped. The driver snatched the lid and left. Did he hear Gary’s screams?

The DWP crew found Gary’s lifeless body a week later.

–Rhys

NEW FROM THE V-TWIN VISIONARY—

MAKE YOUR MOTORCYCLE MORE ENJOYABLE BY GETTING RID OF HEAT!

Any motorcycle rider knows that exhaust can get hot and dangerous! Especially to riders with shorter legs, when stopped in traffic, or when getting off your bike. Help reduce that heat, protect yourself, and make your ride cooler and more comfortable with one or more of these great options…

HEAT SHIELD LINER KITS
• Easiest to install
• Lines the back of factory shields
• Reduces 50% of the heat radiating through the heat shields
• No adhesive or modifications
• Harley, Indian, and Triumph Custom Fit kits available for stock
and aftermarket headpipes
• Universal Cut to Fit kits available

DEI POWERSPORTS
https://deipowersports.com/

BMW stops selling all its motorcycles in US except for electric motorcycles

BMW Motorrad has issued a “stop sale” notice for all of its internal combustion engine motorcycles in the US. The notice covers both new and used models, and specifically lists the BMW CE 04, an electric motorbike, as the only model still for sale from the company’s dealers.

The issue appears to be related to the fuel system in BMW’s motorcycles, and is likely to be a problem that has spanned several generations of the bikes based on the stop sale notice covering all model years.

The BMW CE 04 is the company’s only electric model currently for sale in North America. The 31 kW (42 hp) bike is best classified as a maxi-scooter, though it takes on a futuristic design and lacks the typical deep step-through frame of most scooters. It began production roughly two years ago, when there was little in the US electric scooter market to compete with its 75 mph (121 km/h) performance. Now similarly capable electric scooters have begun to enter the market, though few can match BMW’s design chops.

The CE 04 will soon be joined by BMWs next electric motorbike, the BMW CE 02, though that model is not yet available in North American dealerships.

–Micah Toll
Electrek.co

–from Jay Jackson
MRF

NEW BIKERNET READER COMMENT—

STRANGE BIKERNET NEWS for September 14th, 2023 (click to read)

I remember one of those times you quit – You were the Editorial Director for Hot Bike, Street Chopper and Hot Rod Bikes. I had quit editing Tailgate for Paisano over creative differences and you hired me to work on Hot Rod Bikes. I wasn’t at HRB that long when you said adios to the Editorial Editor gig and I quit HRB shortly afterwards.

You’ve done a lot through the years to help me and I really appreciate it.

–Crazy John Gilbert

“Thanks John. There’s more to life than a job, or titles. There’s integrity, freedom and adventure to be considered.” –Bandit

MORE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTES OF THE WEEK—

“Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind.” ~ Rudyard Kipling

“Think Big, Think Fast, Think Ahead. Ideas are no one’s monopoly.” ~ Dhirubhai Ambani
(industrialist)

–from Wayfarer
Editor: Bikernet Blog

ACTION IN TEXAS–Texans are headed to Arkansas this weekend for the new version of Bikes, Blues & BBQ. The rally is now centered in Rogers.

If you’ve followed the drama, the former host city pulled the rug out from under the rally organizers and forced a cancellation previously. This new home assures a continued success for this great getaway.

This year, the rally is being held in a welcoming community, and if you don’t have other plans, consider heading up for some fun in Arkansas.

Here in Texas, the Temple All Harley Drags are back. This fun, homegrown event draws a distinguished group of racers to the Little River Drag Strip.

Get Out and Ride!
Be Safe Out There!

–Reynolds Mansson
Events Newsletter Editor
Associate Publisher and Managing Editor of Ride Texas Magazine

AS THE MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION BOARD BEGINS TO MEET–

Very exciting news!!!!

MRF National Pres. Kirk “Hardtail” Willard has confirmed that he will be at our Chapter meeting on Oct 1st as our guest speaker… This will be a packed meeting and we will have a short ride after for a meet and greet. Please let us know who all is coming.
If you plan to have breakfast at the Eagles I suggest you show up early or eat off site at a nearby breakfast place (Sunrise Cafe & Rivergate Cafe are close).

As far as I know this will be the first in person meeting between ABATE of FL and the MRF in recent history.. hopefully this will be the beginning of a new, improved relationship and lead the way into the future!!!!

We would like to see some State officers and a few Chapter Pres/VP’s to attend if available.

ABATE of FL, Inc
Daytona Beach Chapter
OCT 1ST @ 10am
Eagles Post 3800
190 S Nova Rd
Ormond Beach, FL 32174

–Alfy, Pres
ABATE of FL, Inc.
Daytona Beach Chapter

ELECTRIC KAWASAKI ANNOUNCED– Ninja E-1 and Z E-1

These Electric models will aim to capture the 125cc commuter class for urban mobility.

Kawasaki Europe has officially announced full specifications and details about its first electric motorcycles.

Ninja e-1 sportbike and the naked Z e-1 are to be launched in Europe. Both models are classified as 125cc-class motorcycles and will reach European markets soon. It is expected that other markets including Australia, Japan, and America will get these too.

Kawasaki has claimed charging time from 0 to 100% in just 3.7 hours for each battery, and a partial charge from 20 to 85% in 1.6 hours.

Knowing the industry reputation of Kawasaki in heavy machinery and not just motorcycles, one can be assured of quality and performance from electric motorcycles presented under a Kawasaki badge.

Read more at
https://blog.bikernet.com/electric-kawasaki-announced/

Wayfarer
Editor: Bikernet Blog & Facebook Page

WHEN WICKED MEETS REALITY–

Anti-police activist does U-turn after being carjacked– Three years ago, the “defund the police” movement got its start in Minneapolis, MN. A number of leftist politicians wasted no time in jumping on the bandwagon, along with a bunch of Hollywood celebrities – all of whom thought it was a great idea to slash police funding or, in some cases, to abolish the police entirely.

Shivanthi Sathanandan, currently the second vice-chairwoman of the Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor (DFL) Party, was one of these early supporters. In June 2020, she called for taking action against the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD). “We are going to dismantle the Minneapolis Police Department” because “MPD has systematically failed the black community, they have failed ALL OF US … If you are still disagreeing with that BASIC FACT, I’m not sure what to say to you.”

That was then, and this is now. “Shivanthi Sathanandan, police hater, just got carjacked by reality,” reads a New York Post headline. The piece describes Sathanandan as a new convert to the law-and-order movement after a violent carjacking in which she was allegedly attacked in her yard by four “very young” men with guns.

It quotes Sathanandan’s social media posts, featuring a selfie of her bloodied face and her thanks to the “incredible” Minneapolis police officers for their help, with the following message:

Look at my face. REMEMBER ME when you are thinking about supporting letting juveniles and young people out of custody to roam our streets instead of HOLDING THEM ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR ACTIONS… Look at my face. These criminals will not win. We need to take back our city. And this will not be the last you hear from me about this…

These men knew what they were doing. I have NO DOUBT they have done this before. Yet they are still on OUR streets…I’m now part of the statistics. I wasn’t silent when I fought these men to save my life and my babies, and I won’t be silent now. We need to get illegal guns off our streets, catch these young people who are running wild and creating chaos across our city AND HOLD THEM IN CUSTODY AND PROSECUTE THEM. PERIOD. (Emphasis in original.)

What happened to Sathanandan and her family is horrifying but unfortunately, not unique.

Although carjacking crimes are actually down in Minneapolis from this time last year, police statistics as of mid-September show assault offenses, sex offenses, vandalism/property damage, car thefts, and stolen property crimes in the city are all on the rise. There are also less police officers available to handle this surge in crime due, in part, to the aftermath of the police abolition/defund movement she was a proponent of.

While Sathanandan was agitating for the MPD to be dismantled, officers were leaving in unprecedented numbers – 40 cops were in the process of resigning or otherwise separating from the MPD, another 75 were on medical leave for post-traumatic stress disorder caused by the riots that summer, and “dozens more” were expected to file for leave. According to a local newspaper, the attrition continued well into 2023: “as of May 2023, there were 585 sworn officers in the Minneapolis Police Department compared to a force of 892 in 2018, a decline of about 34%.”

A 2021 statement by the president of the Police Officers Federation of Minneapolis outlining the reasons for the personnel losses includes, as one, the “false narratives spewed by uninformed politicians, activist groups and ultimately pushed by the media” that “added to the hatred towards the police, [and] diminishing trust and support from the community.”

It’s possible that Sathanandan has walked back her views on the MPD. However, the official “Action Agenda” of the Minnesota DFL Party she represents shows that the DFL is on board with plenty of like-minded liberal public safety notions, starting with “policies that prioritize restoration/rehabilitation,” supporting a “model of public safety that includes more professionals who are trained in mental health issues,” and adopting what it calls “common sense gun violence prevention measures,” like criminal background checks on all gun sales and red-flag orders. The DFL opposes “any efforts to weaken or eliminate Minnesota’s requirements for a permit to carry a handgun in public,” a law that we’re guessing had absolutely no effect on the four crooks that allegedly attacked her, beat her up and stole her car.

Much like New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D), who was happy to support “sanctuary city” status in theory until reality in the form of droves of arriving illegal aliens landed on his doorstep, Sathanandan, “now part of the statistics,” has received a brutal reminder that policies have consequences.

–NRA

NEWS FROM THE PRISM GANG— Stampede Handlebars from Prism supply

Tall

Short

Our Stampede Handlebars are cut, bent and welded in house and are available in both stainless and mild steel. These are available in a 9 and 13-inch options.

UNITED STATES joins hands with INDIA to launch 10,000 electric buses—

Eric Garcetti does it again.

The United States and India have launched a joint initiative to have 10,000 electric buses on Indian streets, with the aim of reducing carbon emissions and creating cleaner and healthier cities. The partnership will also mobilize financing for the electric bus fleet and promote international cooperation in the field of electric mobility.

Read full story at:
https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/commercial-vehicle/mhcv/india-us-join-hands-to-launch-10000-electric-buses-on-indian-streets/103817431

I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO MAKE OF ANYTHING— Last Friday I had a meeting with Lonnie Isam and went over what to do next with my 1913 engine. “The lower-end you bought was for a 1915 with a larger crank pin,” he pointed out.

I need to machine these valve collars. My engine was built before they had covers for the pushrods.

We also discussed and checked my cylinders. I need to do some sand blasting and finding new valves through Competition Distributing. I’ve owned a few Sunnen Hones, and now I may need another one to bore the cylinders.

The Redhead was attacked by Covid this week, so natch, I caught it. But I had to keep moving forward with snow preparations. After several winter discussions about moving the Torpedo into trailer for storage we came up with a plan to take the chill out, remove moisture and keep the Torpedo safe, but first I had to load it.

The bros couldn’t come over due to the Covid Plague, although team member and neighborhood farmer, Luke delivered a bag of fresh tomatoes and healing beets. Powered by fresh fruit and veggies I took on loading the Torpedo myself.

It kicked my ass, but got it done.

I bought this Silver springer in a jewelry store in Athens, Greece during a sailing adventure off the coast. I got drunk and missed my flight home… Frank, my son who works at All Saints in Austin, Texas had it gold plated recently, serious bling. It’s his now.

I will publish a J.J. Solari review of George’s first book tomorrow. I’m anxious to see his book about Sonny Barger due to be published soon.

Jeremiah scored this Thor or Indian motor in storage unit in San Pedro.

Here’s another Pan or Knuck starter system. This is the cleanest.

Karley, Sinwu’s daughter reported in from the Los Angeles Harbor. She’s doing all the work on her Sportster and got it fired up the other day for her first test ride.

The bro, 45 John, with the 1960 Panhead roller is anxious to get started. So, he supplied me with the ultimate Covid cure, 100 percent Agave Reposado.

I feel better already. This shit is amazing!

Stay upright and riding free forever.

–Bandit

Lotsa Different Directions

Hey,

I said it was the odd Bikernet Weekly news, because we are living in strange times, but there’s always hope.

We are actually living in the Best of Times, and everyone has the opportunity to grow, build, learn, better themselves and prosper.

I say there’s hope, because like this weekend, brothers and sisters from all over the country are meeting in Harrisburg, PA to discuss strategies for freedom at the Meeting of the Minds. It’s not too late to be a part of the action. There’s always hope.

Stay upright and riding free forever.

–Bandit

Click here to read this week’s news only on Bikernet.com

* * * * * * * * * * * *

SHOP FOR YOUR NEXT RIDE — click & roar

Last week was a busy week for the MRF “Road Show”…

Beginning in Ohio, President Kirk “Hardtail” Willard and Vice-President Jay Jackson attended the Hall of Fame induction ceremony at the American Motorcyclist Association Museum. MRF State Rep Sherry Hill and folks from ABATE of Ohio set up a membership table at the AMA’s Bike Night on Saturday. AMA hosted a Road Captain training that was attended by ABATE of Arizona, ABATE of Indiana, ABATE of Michigan and ABATE of Ohio on Sunday.

This series of events also allowed facilitation of a meeting between the MRF President and representatives from the Federation Internationale De Motorcylisme (FIM) out of Switzerland and a member of the Board of Directors from the Federation of European Motorcyclists Associations (FEMA) out of Belgium. The topics of concern were End of Life Directives related to motorcycles, European and United Nations activities surrounding internal combustion engines and electric vehicle mandates. We also discussed the issues surrounding motorcycle parts certification and availability of parts. The timing was ideal as it allows this information to be disseminated in real time at the Meeting of the Minds this week in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

The State Motorcycle Safety Association (SMSA) held their annual Summit in Columbus, Ohio September 13th through 16th. State motorcycle rights organizations from Alaska, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio, and others were in attendance to learn the latest statistics, trends and issues related to motorcycle safety. MRF Vice President Jay Jackson presented “Promising Practices in Rider Training” as part of an alliance with six other states. The 2024 Summit will be held in Denver, Colorado.

The week ended with the MRF President and Russell Radke, the MRF Motorcycle Club Representative to the MRF Board, attending the National Council of Clubs meeting in Dayton, Ohio. The highlights were participating in an update of the Motorcycling Profiling Project which has played a very important role in our collective motorcycle anti-profiling successes. We also had an opportunity to share strategic updates on our legislative agenda and provide an update on the concerns we share regarding the future of motorcycling to a crowded room of motorcycle club members.

About Motorcycle Riders Foundation: The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) provides leadership at the federal level for states’ motorcyclists’ rights organizations as well as motorcycle clubs and individual riders. Visit http://mrf.org

These Electric models will aim to capture the 125cc commuter class for urban mobility

Kawasaki Europe has officially announced full specifications and details about its first electric motorcycles.

Ninja e-1 sportbike and the naked Z e-1 are to be launched in Europe. Both models are classified as 125cc-class motorcycles and will reach European markets soon. It is expected that other markets including Australia, Japan, and America will get these too.

Both the e-1 models are powered by the same air-cooled interior permanent magnet synchronous motor, rated at 6.7 hp at 2,800 rpm (claimed peak output of 12.1 hp), and a claimed 29.9 lb-ft. of torque. The curb weight is 298 pounds compared to 324 pounds for the Z 125.

Each motorcycle will be powered by two removable 50.4 V lithium-ion battery packs, and each having a nominal capacity of 30 Ah. The batteries are mounted in parallel under a storage compartment where typically a fuel tank is located. After installation, the battery charge levels are shown on the left and right sides of a TFT display. Each battery has its own charge level indicator.

Another interesting feature is the three different ways to charge these batteries:

1. plugging it into a charger,
2. connecting it to a charging dock, or,
3. with the battery installed on the motorcycle, by connecting the charger to a port located in the tail.

Kawasaki has claimed charging time from 0 to 100% in just 3.7 hours for each battery, and a partial charge from 20 to 85% in 1.6 hours.

Knowing the industry reputation of Kawasaki in heavy machinery and not just motorcycles, one can be assured of quality and performance from electric motorcycles presented under a Kawasaki badge.

* * * *

Tinker and test beyond your garage. Get the free weekly newsletter from Bikernet Blog for latest industry updates.

So, if you have been reading stuff on Bikernet.com since 2006 or from past few years, you might know I ride an Enfield. I also owned an all-terrain dirt bike after selling my second Enfield. A Hero XPulse (yes, from Hero MotoCorp, the partner and exclusive distributor for Harley-Davidson motorcycles sales & service in India).

However, I recently purchased a used vehicle. An out-of-production cast-iron engine Enfield Bullet 350cc with right-hand-side gear shift, which is the closest thing available to the 1955 Enfield Bullet 350 including chassis and engine design by the Britishers among other things such as dashboard, tank, hand-painted pinstripe, etc. These come with Green Tax for the alleged pollution they may or might be making. I got a fitness test certificate from the Road Transport office, where the ownership change is registered.

There are draconian laws in the Indian nation against customization and you can be cited with a ticket (called ‘challan’) even for painting your vehicle in a different color than what is mentioned in the registration papers. Supposedly, this discourages vehicle theft and maybe even terrorism (parked scooter explosions are real and no, not the EV fires). That’s like banning guns because guns kill people? How bank robbers or terrorists manage to get their arms & ammunition is a cosmic mystery.

However, in a nation as diverse and overactive as India, maybe its best people have less access to mischief and mayhem!

My purchase wasn’t planned. Hell, I didn’t even want to ever own another Enfield after having willingly sold my second one, a Bullet 500cc. My first one was lovely, a cast-iron engine like the present one and it lasted 10 years, prompting plenty of travelogues and fiction for Bikernet.com

My frustration was with the quality of materials and work on newer mass production Enfields. Recently, Siddhartha Lal, MD, Eicher Motors which owns Royal Enfield stated or rather boasted, “our three plants crank out a motorcycle every 38 seconds”. Hey, maybe that’s the problem; not really a positive aspect of your brand?

Anyways, friggin’ social media was showing me Enfields, then came free advert listings of people selling their Enfields, then I came across movies featuring Enfields in a popular video-posting website. Was it the universally destined choice of vehicle for me or friggin’ nerds crunching ‘Big Data’ with their machine learning programs, pitching things I don’t need anymore?

Well, as luck would have it, I was on a street where an old acquaintance has a shop for buying and selling used motorcycles. Out of curiosity (which killed my bank account….later) I asked him how much do Enfield old cast-iron engines go for anyways? He showed me how he has a wonderful one which starts with just one smooth kick—took me by the arms and led me to his parking lot to prove the worthiness of the rusting black Bullet 350 from year 2004. Demonstrating the minor differences between this model and my former 2007 Enfield Bullet 350, he gladly asked me when I was planning to buy it.

My mind swirled between happy memories of my Enfield and sad realities about older vehicle related laws in the city and nation. Then the EV future loomed large, and maybe a ban on ICE engines purchases or ownership if that’s the route USA decides to go—and the world follows, including India!

Last time, when I first purchased an Enfield, i.e. a Bullet 350 with cast-iron engine in 2007, I had expedited my decision because, hey, they were gonna stop manufacturing cast-iron engines and the factory had already pulled the plug on 500cc cast-iron engines!

Again, fear and doom ruled! Will they ban ICE sales this year, next year, by the time I save enough, by the time there is a better choice of cast-iron Bullet for sale….and I bought the bait, and chewed on this purchase for four agonizing months.

Well, the motorcycle was definitely nice and the deal was cool, at a more than reasonable rate. Yet, I should have been wary when the seller offered to restore some of the eye-sores on the old horse for an extra wad of cash.

That was the pain in the purchase. The four months of purgatory where both me and my Enfield Bullet suffered separation and neglect. Life was happening. My mother was in and out of hospitals. Work suffered, so was my health running about doing errands and familial obligations, paying bills, maintaining accounts, keeping up appearances, etc. I had already paid for the insurance, the ownership transfer, the repairs this dude was gonna do.

Then September and beginning of what is a grand series of festivals in India arrived. Till New Year’s eve, this festive season is when every salesman worth its (are they human or reptilian? “its” it is) salt doesn’t have to make any effort to hard-sell as the brands / companies offer glorious schemes and benefits for maximizing profits through economies of scale. Plus there are banks, non-banking finance firms, fintech startups, etc enabling the temptations. If you sell a million units instead of a thousand, then you can manufacture and sell the unit for a lot less – that’s the economics of a nation of billion humans. Hey, more people here have a mobile phone and/or smart phone than a television or jobs for that matter (okay, that’s just speculation, but probably true!?!)

Automotive business is booming in India and so is luxury brands. Even Electric Vehicles now have a representation in the monthly-quarterly industry sales pie-charts.

Thus, in September, I pulled up myself by the bootstraps, looked in the mirror and decidedly saw I wore pants and I pulled ’em down to make sure I am still a man! I went over to the bloke, the shop-owner procrastinating and making excuses for not handing over my motorcycle because this and that work is still pending.

I said, “Is it running?”

He answered, “Yes! Of course!”

“I’ll take it,” and off I went out of this world of misadventure.

It took me a while to figure out I had been had. Not that I am a simpleton but I give the benefit of doubt to the same person more frequently than I should. I wanted to believe he was a man of his word and would not feel I cheated him out of anything because I didn’t bargain. Back in May 2023, he had quoted a price for this used Enfield Bullet 350 and I said ‘okay.’ That was that. I didn’t haggle and he shouldn’t act like a greedy fisherwoman after the sale was done.

He had promised to help with some of the aspects of repair for the motorcycle that would make me happier taking delivery of the Bullet as it would look and run a lot better.

Ultimately, it was more than four months of anxiety and worn-out shoes strolling to his shop and a hundred plus phone calls to him before I rode away with my new prized possession. The Enfield Bullet itself runs smooth enough. It had 26,373 kms on it when I got hold of it (not like he was offering delivery gladly) – and I am sure that douchebag rode a few hundred kilometres on my motorcycle in the months between purchase and ‘possession.’

I just let go of that shopkeeper physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, because there is no point crying over how he milked me. I went to a garage that only does repair and does not sell anything at all.

The thing with people going to a repair shop or authorized service centre instead of working on their vehicle themselves is again simple logic and math. Instead of spending time and money and (precious) space for DIY repairs, you can get your motorcycle or car fixed for less than one tenth the costs (million customers per square kilometre of cities). Finding an honorable mechanic is the key to the kilometres of fun.

The garage I went to had an old-timer and his name translated to English literally means ‘King.’ He told me what spares I will need. I went to a spare parts shop and bought them. Then he fixed the immediate necessities – a horn, a turn signal bulb, the petrol pipe connecting the tank to the carburetor, the tank lid lock which was throwing out petrol because it was missing a rubber washer. He greased the spring on the central stand since it wouldn’t sprung when the stand was off the ground for riding (yes, even latest Enfield motorcycles have a centre-stand along with the Western choice of side-stand).

For all of this, his labour, his fee was Rs. 100 only. (US 1 dollar and 20 cents)

The shop from where I had purchased this Enfield had sold it to me for Rs. 68,000 + 21,000 for repairs & restoration. (USD 830 + USD 256).

I guess, some doors close and new garage doors open with a welcome change.

So far, I have done well over 100 KMs on the Bullet in two days. The petrol consumption is 20 to 23 km per litre. If I go above 60 kmph, then the petrol consumption is fast and frivolous and the old engine & chassis vibrates like the poltergeist in Exorcist and a creatively named Spielberg movie (Trivia? Spielberg was only the writer for 1982’s Poltergeist).

That’s that and now the adventure on the road begins. I hope to ride this heap of metal to November’s Rider Mania event, held annually by Royal Enfield company at Vagator beach, Goa (India).

I will write more about riding experience with this 2004 machinery on typical Indian roads and upcoming repairs if any. Hopefully, Bandit and Bikernet.com will see more travelogues rather than tech. Keep in mind, petrol is imported and thus expensive commodity here. 86% of crude oil is imported by India, losing precious foreign exchange with each drop of fuel. No wonder they imagine EV is their enlightenment. That is a separate dialogue and debate for another article or editorial.

Let’s hope ICE engines don’t suffer rapture and we all continue to have God-given freewill as civilized humans to choose what we want to ride on Earth forever. Is customer king? Well, we are all conditioned since decades if not centuries. So, data mining and targeted advertising is just another spoke in the wheel of capitalist industry.

Live and let riding make us feel alive. Meanwhile, here is a painting of Enfield in India.

A tale of two parties to a deal and one steadfast old iron engine

Text and photos by Ujjwal Dey with illustrations from Wayfarer

An Enfield Bullet 350 finds a home after being in limbo for four stressful months. The cast iron engine with right-hand-side gear shift is a well-known legend among motorcyclists, especially purists who don’t want the brand name “Bullet” associated with run-of-mill modern designs & engines. What misadventure occurred and what new adventures await?

“First time in life I decided to purchase a used vehicle. An out of production cast-iron engine Enfield Bullet 350cc with right-hand-side gear shift which is the closest thing available to the 1955 Enfield Bullet 350 including chassis and engine design by the Britishers among other things such as dashboard, tank, hand-painted pinstripe, etc. These come with Green Tax for the alleged pollution they may or might be making. I got a fitness test certificate from the Road Transport office, where the ownership change is registered.” — Dey

Click here to read this awesome anecdote about ‘love after love’. Believe it!

* * * *

Royal Enfield today launched “Royal Enfield Rentals” program to provide Royal Enfield motorcycles to individuals by partnering with motorcycle rental operators.

These rentals will include more than 40 motorcycle rental operators across 25 cities and destinations in India, thus enabling explorers and enthusiasts to rent and ride over 300 Royal Enfield motorcycles.

Mohit Dhar Jayal, Chief Brand Officer, Royal Enfield stated, “Our extended family of motorcycle rental and tour operators and mechanics have played a critical role in shaping our culture and mission of pure motorcycling. Alongside our efforts, the people of this extended ecosystem have built wider access and aspiration for our motorcycles.”

This initiative will enable access for riders to rent a motorcycle anywhere in India. It will also enhance the level of support offered by the brand to all motorcycle rental operators who represent the backbone of Enfield ecosystem across tourist and rider destinations everywhere.

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