by Rogue and others I made plans to attend Harley Davidson’s 120th Anniversary in Wisconsin, when I got a phone call from Berry Wardlaw. He told me about the Panhead Anniversary and the event that was happening to celebrate it in the Milwaukee area. The Event was June 22-24 and the Harley Reunion was July 13-16. That would mean two rides to Milwaukee from Florida and back. With almost a month between the events, so it was doable.

Click here to read this report only on Bikernet.com

* * * *

Follow Bikernet Free Weekly Newsletter to get latest Motorcycling news, updates, reviews, tech, tips, events & lot of fun. Click here & take a test ride.

I made plans to attend Harley Davidson’s 120^th Anniversary in Wisconsin, when I got a phone call from Berry Wardlaw. He told me about the Panhead Anniversary and the event that was happening to celebrate it in the Milwaukee area.

 The Event was June 22-24 and the Harley Reunion was July 13-16. That would mean two rides to Milwaukee from Florida and back. With almost a month between the events, so it was doable.

I contacted Greg Lew who promoted the event and made arrangements to attend. I even got a VIP badge, something to do with being old I was told. 

Well, I got caught in one of those rain storms that made it difficult to see the front wheel on my way from Florida to Accurate Engineering in Alabama. I ride through them on a regular basis in Florida, but it does slow me down some. The weather report announced more rain on the way to Milwaukee. We faced a run schedule, and I did not want to be the one holding us up.

It turned out Vivian’s Pan and the Indian were going in the van and my bike on the trailer. I personally do not like trailering a motorcycle, if it is rideable, but do realize that sometimes it is necessary. As it turned out putting it on the trailer this time was the thing to do.

We had a great trip to our friends Tony and Vickie’s house just outside of Milwaukee where we would be staying.

 

My new Ultra let me know it was not happy going on a trailer. Luckily, I caught it the first night we stopped. I fixed the issue and all it took was a short low charge of the battery in Tony’s garage to correct her attitude.

Tony has a sharp, organized shop set up in his garage, and the vintage bikes faced last-minute adjustments.

The generator was not working on Wigwam (Molly’s Indian), so it was decided to just run it off the battery and not use the headlight. A spare battery went along on the rides, just in case. These things happen and the mission was to make the ride and fix the motorcycle when parts and time were available. Mission Accomplished.

On site features thanks to Tom Hinderholtz included sprawling grass areas for tents, parking with water, showers, electricity and other facilities.

There were hotels and RV parks close by as well.

On Saturday morning a reported 108 Panheads and other motorcycles met at Wetzel Brothers Lot in Cudahy for a Police Escorted Ride to the Harley Museum.

Since Berry was on an Indian, and I was riding a new Ultra we rode in the back of the group.

When arriving at the museum the Panheads were lined up handlebar to handlebar for a panoramic photo with the oldest motorcycles in the middle of the photo.

After the photo there was a bike show in front of the museum and also other motorcycles were involved in field games.

What a great, historic day.

I should note that Vivian did offer to let me ride her Panhead in the parade, but I did not feel right doing that as it was not mine. That’s a Good Sister.

 I thought I would mention a lot of these older motorcycles have lights that are not that bright even when they are working (6-volt). “We need to get home before dark,” said many vintage riders.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Holy shit, the rally is already all over us. Brothers and sisters are riding into the Black Hills by the droves. It’s going to be an interesting event, with the H-D Anniversary hitting Milwaukee in July and the rally just a couple of weeks after thunder rocks the asphalt all over Wisconsin.

I’ve been waiting on my chain primary drive from Tech Cycle and Paul Cox, it’s cool albeit terrifying, but what the fuck. We only go around once. It arrived the other day and we started the alignment procedure, which didn’t fair worth a fuck. Answers and solutions are coming.

Then we looked into how the drive chain would align with the sprocket on the transmission and wheel. Fortunately, I had three different offsets. None of them came close. I was going to need to move the wheel, but everything was tight.

Irish Rich suggested flipping an offset sprocket over. Crazy, I started to machine the lip of the PBI sprocket. Then it became apparent that the sprocket still had to come in contact with the seal spacer. The difference was just a few thousandths of an inch.

I found some galvanized rings used for plumbing or home projects, but they contained the correct inside diameter, 1.750. Each one was about .035 thick. Together they did the trick. I may need one to create a sprocket locking washer as you will see, unfortunately, it won’t work. I need something with a 1.5 inch inside diameter and wide outside diameter so I can drill a hole in it and bolt it to the sprocket.

McMaster Carr has stainless shims. I believe they will do the trick.

Since I flipped the PBI sprocket over, standard locking devices won’t work.

Okay, so I had trans plate issues, I had clutch sprocket to engine sprocket issues, and I had trans sprocket to wheel sportor sprocket problems.

The mounting studs screwed into the bottom of the S&S Transmission case weren’t long enough because Rich made the VL 3-speed frame into a 4-speed trans excepting frame by adding and welding the 4-speed tranny plate into place. I ordered and searched for longer studs. I found some at ACE hardware, too short. McMaster Carr did the trick, but they are coarse threads at both ends.

All this alignment stuff has prevented all sorts of projects from being completed. Even the rear fender could not be final mounted.

I did make a coil mount with a Paughco chromed, Knucklehead top motor-mount. I’m working with three fastening methods. Some things will be brazed, some silicon bronze TIG welded and some mild-steel TIG welded. My Miller MIG welder always backs me up.

I brazed the coil bracket and put it in place without bolting it to the engine. Engine needs to be aligned and bolted to the motor-mounts first.

I also had to search for a taillight lens. John gave me this taillight early on, but with the wrong lens. It’s interesting trying to find the correct lens and the license plate window. Shit, it’s impossible to find. I even found a company focused solely on old glass lenses. I wrote and called; they’re gone. Let me know if you have a connection.

Charlie Rust said he had a box of old glass lenses in his shop, well sorta. I took a half-dozen home to try out. The only one that came close was a clear Lucas lens, and I started grinding the edge. The key to grinding glass is heat. If it gets hot, it will crack. And it’s best to have a very fine grinding wheel, I do now.

Meanwhile back at the 5-inna-4-speed case transmission. We put it together several times with various shafts and gears. Our assortment of gears and shafts messed with us big time.

We even had a variety of trap doors which we fumbled with until we had a complete transmission, but not a tapered shaft, so the Evil belt system was set aside. That’s when I was introduced to Tech Cycle.

Charlie gave me a cool, old, Shorty muffler with a pipe stuck inside. That bastard would not budge. We heated it, beat on it, twisted it but nada. We finally cut it off and welded it directly to the 2-into- 1 pipe system. It came with a goofy tip and I was determined to use it. I also TIG and MIG welded some connections and then brazed one. I thought I fucked up, but when the system was completed, I tried silicon bronze TIG welding each joint completely. I messed with the heat some, and it worked to unify each weld.

I TIG welded my seat pan, drilled and shipped it to Howard Knight for leather work, along with the straps. The oil tank is tested and ready. So much to do and so little time.

Check it out. I ground the Lucas glass lens until it fit in the light socket, then the retaining ring wouldn’t fit. I made a ring from a chunk of exhaust pipe and then tried to figure out how to fasten it down. It works, albeit strange.

Hang on, the 120th anniversary was last weekend, two weeks until the rally, six weeks until Bonneville. This week I will endeavor to line up the rear wheel with trans sprocket and finish mounting the fender.

Ride on and Ride Forever!

–Bandit

SOURCES:

Atomic Dice

Clauser’s Machine Shop
Spearfish, SD

Dakota V-Twin
Spearfish, SD
www.dakotavtwin.com

JIMS Machine

McMaster Carr
www.dakotavtwin.com

Paughco

Shamrocks Customs
Sturgis, SD

S&S

TechCycle
www.techcycle.com

Terry Components
Check on J&P Cycles

Nash Motorcycles

Colony
www.colonymachine.com

Black Bike Wheels
www.blackbikewheels.com

Custom Chrome
www.customchrome.com

Barnett’s clutch and cable

Dennis Kirk

“Heard from staff that there are 30,000 motorcycles parked just in the parking lot! Record breaking crowds enjoying Harley Davidson’s 120th Anniversary in Milwaukee. Seeing so many friends is so special. Meeting so many people too!”
— Lori Struck DeSilva

Stay tuned for more reports on this epic mega-event.

We decided to get our readers engaged in fiction focused on motorcycling lifestyle. The contest is completely free for anyone to participate. All you have to do is subscribe to Bikernet weekly newsletter and email us your fiction. Can you weave a tale in 100 words or less?

The May 2023 winner was announced on June 22, weekly Thursday News — click & read it here.

We are glad to announce the winner for the month of June 2023 is Chris Dutcher for his 100 words adventure “A Hundred”. As Bikernet Metaverse Editorial Emperor Bandit himself stated “Great story, no wasted words, emotion and action strong. Well done.”

You can read all the multiple fiction entries for this contest at Bikernet.com by Clicking Here.

Chris is not new to fiction writing. He has published two novels in his “Storm Rider” series. You can read a review of those books on Bikernet.com itself.

• Storm Rider – Book One — click for review
• Storm Rider – Book Two — click for review

Chris Dutcher wins a fantastic goodie bag, full of Bikernet gifts, signed Bandit books and swag. Don’t miss your chance. The July winner will be announced next month.

Don’t ever stop riding or writing…

–Wayfarer

* * * * * * * *

Read Free Short Fiction and Facts on Bikernet.com by clicking here.

Read entire Novels on Bikernet.com in Bandit’s Cantina, click to view.

5-Ball Bonneville Racing : Salt Torpedo

We have about six weeks before we roll into the Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials in Utah. We will haul our hand-built Salt Torpedo one of the first streamlined trikes powdered by a 135-inch JIMS Twin Cam.

I’m going to try to deliver a brief report every couple of days. Let me know if you have any questions. And of course we’re looking for sponsors to support this effort.

Just recently, Terry components helped with one of the items on our list, battery shut-off cables and jumper cables. I’m working on the trailer today.

–Bandit

* * * *
https://5-ballgarage.com/

by Buck Lovell with photos from Buck Lovell

This little Yellow Bobber sold for above $15,000 dollars at a recent Mecums auction

Most motorcycles in America in the early 1950s were no nonsense, kick-start only iron with few if any frills or comfort features as we have today. America’s modern super-speed interstate highway system wasn’t even a twinkle in President Eisenhower’s eye, and gasoline was less than 15 cents per gallon almost everywhere across the Unites States. Two wheeled motorcycles were economic, fair-weather transportation for those men and women who loved the sun on their face and the wind in their hair!

Click here to read this photo feature by master photographer Buck Lovell on Bikernet.com

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

Stay updated, stay ahead of the curve…with Bikernet Free Weekly Newsletter. Click to take it out for a spin.

Digital Discovery gathers some tunes and fumes

Music is creativity and creativity is exploration. No wonder there are so many popular musicians fascinated by two-wheels and the motorcycling lifestyle.

Have a look at these music album covers that prominently feature a motorcycle.

EXCLUSIVE in Bandit’s Cantina. Click here to read. Join Cantina today with the best online membership benefits.

* * * * * * * *

Hey,

Today suddenly turned significant. The Prism gang reminded me that today marks the first day of the Harley 120th Homecoming.

Then I heard that we might have a meeting with Senator Mike Rounds regarding our resolution with the Motorcycle Riders Foundation regarding Scientific Transparency.

Let’s see how the day rolls out. 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.

NEWS FROM THE PRISM GANG—

Our latest My Garage episode brings us to the Sunshine State where we visit Jim Root. Jim needs no introduction as a guitarist. With a legendary career with Slipknot and a best-selling signature guitar bearing his name, he’s solidified his place in music history.

Off Stage, he’s developed an affinity for high-horsepower vehicles. Alongside racks and racks of guitars, his garage is adorned with period-correct Mopars and a different Harley-Davidson for nearly every occasion.

Like his eclectic motorcycle collection, Jim’s guitars are set up in a way that suits his style and upsets purists. But, with a Grammy and multiple Platinum records on his shelf, it’s clear that Jim doesn’t need to follow convention.

Watch for the Prism Gang at the Homecoming this weekend.

BIKERNET RESEARCH TEAM FINDS ALBUM COVERS CONTAINING MOTORCYCLES

Brigitte Bardot

Janis Joplin

More to come:
John Fogerty
Meatloaf
SailCat
Grateful Dead
Diana Ross
James Brown
Judas Priest
Canned Heat
Bad Company
John Hammond

We will bring you the whole story in the very near future.

–Wayfarer
Editor, Bikernet Blog

HEARTLAND FREEDOM DINNER–Don’t Delay! Early Bird Discount
ENDS August 1, 2023

America needs John Stossel’s tireless voice for liberty now more than ever. The government has assumed vast new powers, spending is out of control, and individual liberty is in retreat.

John Stossel has exposed these excesses for decades on his way to winning 19 Emmy awards, five awards from the National Press Club, and a Peabody award.

You won’t want to miss John Stossel’s latest analysis and inside stories about the mainstream media at Heartland’s Benefit Dinner.

To purchase tickets, reserve tables, or learn more, go to Heartland’s benefit dinner webpage, call (312) 377-4000, or email think@heartland.org.

Show your support for Heartland and liberty by reserving your seat today.

“Sure, this isn’t motorcycle, but if you’re in the neighborhood, it could be very interesting. Heartland supports freedom, the truth, liberty and scientific transparency.” –Bandit

LEGENDS SUSPENSION IS READY–Hometown Rally 120th Anniversary

We are excited to see you, talk suspension, and have a good time! We will be located at House of Harley-Davidson during the Hometown Rally 120th Anniversary.
July 12th – 16th

For more information and location details please visit:
https://www.legendsuspensions.com/events/
OR
https://houseofharleydavidson.com/event/19817/harley-davidson-homecoming-rally

KNUCKLEHEAD OF THE WEEK—1942 FL

–Sam Burns
Feature Bike Editor
Bikernet.com™

CALIFA GUN NUT REPORT—

Before the Legislature recesses on July 14th, policy committees in the Senate will hold more hearings on anti-gun bills, including Assembly Bill 28 for a gun tax and Assembly Bill 1587 for credit card companies to surveil gun owners.

Please go to the NRA website to read more about these anti-gun bills and to ask the committee members to OPPOSE them.

Take Action!

Yours in Freedom,
Ken Lan
Communications Coordinator
NRA-ILA

ANOTHER CALIFORNIA UPDATE–U.S. Senate Companion Bill Introduced to Stop California’s Car Ban

Encourage support from lawmakers on these proposals:

U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) introduced a SAN-supported bill, the “Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act” (S. 2090), to protect Americans’ right to choose the technology that powers their motor vehicles. S. 2090 includes the same text as the House bill (H.R. 1435) that U.S. Rep. John Joyce (R-PA) introduced in March. H.R. 1435 and S. 2090 respond to California’s plans to ban the sale of new gas- and diesel-powered cars and trucks in 2035 unless certain conditions are met. If passed into law, the legislation would prevent the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from allowing California’s Zero Emissions Vehicle regulations that would ban the sale or use of new motor vehicles with internal combustion engines from taking effect.

Lawmakers Must Hear from You Right Away!

Use the following website link for an overview and lawmaker contact.

NEWS FROM COMPETITION DISTRIBUTING—Historic Fuel Tanks Now In Stock!

Fuel Tank J & JD Harley Davidson 1918-1924
Harley Davidson Fuel Tanks 1918-1924 J & JD model Fuel Tanks

Fuel Tank J & JD Harley Davidson 1925-1929
Harley Davidson Fuel Tanks 1925-1929 J & JD model Fuel Tanks

Fuel Tank Peashooter Harley Davidson 1927-1930
Harley Davidson Fuel Tanks 1927-1930 Peashooter Fuel Tanks

–Competition Distributing

DIRECT FROM THE CLIMATE DEPOT—

“First, they came for your energy, then your meat, gas cars, dishwashers, gas stoves and furnaces, flights, pizzas & now…YOUR ICE CUBES!

Stop the climate madness. Stop Net Zero goals. Stop food, ice, and meat restrictions. Stop gas-powered car bans. Stop pizza oven restrictions. The climate change agenda targets every aspect of your life and will take no prisoners in a relentless effort to Sovietize every aspect of American life.

The USA was an aberration in human history when it came to individual rights and economic freedom. But the climate agenda is set to revert the USA back to the norms of history — submission to our overlords.

–Climate Depot’s Marc Morano

See Economist Milton Friedman in 1999: “Free societies of the kind we’ve been lucky enough to experience for the last 100, 150 years — are a very rare exception in human history. Most people, most of history…have lived in tyranny and misery.”

I watched a documentary series about life on earth 10-15 thousand years ago, when man first started building pyramids on Malta and South America. The narrator focused on how old and how well-built they were. He’s trying to rewrite history, but he missed one item.

Pyramids weren’t built by union workers. They were built by slaves.

–Bandit

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY–

“The best way to keep a prisoner from escaping is to make sure he never knows he’s in prison.” ~ Fyodor Dostoevsky

— Wayfarer

New NASH Product– The “Straight Up” Handlebars

The Straight Up bars designed with a similar feel and look to the Smart Gimps but with one slight but important tweak, no inward curve towards the bottom of the bar. From the bottom bend the Straight Ups, do just that, go straight up, all the way to the top grip bends.

Grab a pair in Chrome, Copper or Powder Black!

GRAB A PAIR TODAY

NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM HISTORY LESSON—1951 SUN BEAM S7.

During its development the Sunbeam S7 was plagued with vibration and misguided engineering approaches. Yet today the Sunbeam S7 seems a handsome heavyweight machine distinguished by shaft drive, an overhead camshaft engine, “balloon tires,” rounded fenders and its Mist Green, silver or black paint.

In the course of being a manufacturer of high quality bicycles, Sunbeam’s founder, John Marston was also a Japanner, one skilled at applying black lacquer to bicycle or motorcycle parts, baking them for a hard and shiny finish such as was used on Henry Ford’s Model T. At the age of 76 he branched out into motorcycle manufacture. Most of his early Sunbeams used engines sourced from MAG or J.A.P. and some big-bore Sunbeams were prime for sidecar use. With the Sunbeam name being sold to BSA in 1943, the end of the original Marston/Sunbeam line came about.

The S7 design was the work of independent designer Erling Poppe who based it around the BMW R75 since BMW manufacturing rights were given to BSA as part of the War Reparations. The double-cradle frame with plunger rear suspension and a telescopic fork resemble the BMW, but the engine unit was completely new. At 487cc, the engine was a parallel twin turned around so that the crankshaft ran in line with the frame.

The first S7’s were produced just after World War II, 1949 and incorporated some 30 patented design features. But the worm gear final drive was fragile, and the fix was to lessen stress by decreasing engine output! The in-line twin vibrated calling for rubber engine mounting, which called for a flexible exhaust pipe connection. Shifts in focus of the mother company, BSA, sidelined the Sunbeam brand for good in 1956. In concept the S7 and the later S8 were good designs you could see working today. But they needed further engineering work. When you visit the National Motorcycle Museum before it closes September 4, you can study the Sunbeam, and also several BMWs for comparison.

This fine Sunbeam will be among hundreds of motorcycles and thousands of pieces of memorabilia offered in the John Parham Estate Collection Mecum Auction at the National Motorcycle Museum, Anamosa, Iowa, September 6 – 9, 2023. Watch for information on the Mecum Auctions website, Mecum.com For schedule information or to register as a bidder for this and all Mecum events, visit Mecum.com, or call (262) 275-5050 for more information.

US Utilities Lobby Congress to Keep Gas Stoves Legal—

American gas utilities are lobbying support for bills to keep gas stoves operational, as the Biden administration recommends their elimination for climate change purposes.

Natural gas companies are gathering their political allies in Congress to ward off any attempts that gas stove use be curtailed, according to federal records.

Gas utility companies fear that gas stove bans are the start of a broader phaseout of natural gas, as climate change activists aim to electrify more of the energy system.

Leftist climate change activists are now going after natural gas consumption after destroying the U.S. coal industry under the Biden administration.

Biden Admin Ponders Ban On Gas Stoves
About 69 percent of Americans said they are against a government ban on gas stoves, according to a June poll conducted by the Harvard Center for American Political Studies and Harris.

The controversy exploded in January after the White House said it was mulling a nationwide ban on gas stoves, citing a report linking its use to asthma and other health risks.

A top official at the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) suggested that a national ban on gas stoves could curb air pollution, but that statement was denied by the agency’s head.

It was also later revealed that the agency had been considering a ban on gas stoves for months.

The backlash grew even further after the Department of Energy introduced new regulations in February that would impose harsher energy efficiency standards on new gas stove models by 2027.

However, the Energy Department insisted that it had no plans to ban gas stoves, calling the accusations “absurd.”

Gas stoves account for less than 1 percent of natural gas consumption in the United States, and more than 47 million, or 38 percent of households, cook with gas, according to the Energy Information Administration.

–Brian Jung
Epoch Times

TRIKES OF THE WEEK—From Kotaka Kiyotaka

–Sam Burns
Feature Bike Editor
Bikernet.com™

LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–2017 Harley-Davidson FLSTC – Heritage Softail Classic

https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=14074992&p=2&s=Year&d=D&fr=xPreOwnedInventory

Comfort as modern as this morning’s news and the power from our High Output Twin Cam 103B™ engine, but the look still blazes straight from this machine’s authentic dresser past.

This is too good to consign to history.

The Heritage Softail® Classic is rich with the nostalgia of days gone by, but the hidden suspension gives you the authentic look of a hardtail without the bone-shaking ride. You get the comfort of standard cruise control and a low center of gravity, plus standard ABS, and a High Output Twin Cam 103B™ engine. We maintained the classic look and re-invented the ride.

Location: Anaheim, California
Condition: Pre-Owned
Stock Number: 13892
Year: 2017
Make: Harley-Davidson®
Model: FLSTC – Heritage Softail® Classic
Family: Softail®
VIN: 1HD1BWV18HB022927
Color: RED
Engine: Air-cooled, High Output Twin Cam 103B™
Mileage:19,172

EDITORIAL OF THE WEEK–
Over the past half decade, there has been a growing trend signaling a shift in the perceived and accepted role of science. It is not uncommon to see slogans and mottos such as “the science is settled” and “believe in science.”

Statements like this present two major problems: first, science is determined to be final and indisputable; second, it is accompanied by a value or moral judgment. For example, scientific studies indicate that wearing a helmet can reduce head injury by 48%, serious head injury by 60%, traumatic brain injury by 53%, [and] face injury by 23%.”

While it takes little effort to align with science on such a matter, I intend to demonstrate that an application of the first behavior is contradictory to the foundation of science and the second lies entirely outside its purview.

To establish common ground, we begin by reviewing the merits and fundamentals of the scientific method. First, an observation is made, followed by a question regarding the observation. A hypothesis is then formed that could potentially answer the question. A prediction about future results based on the hypothesis is then tested via experiments.

Analysis of the results of the experiments are utilized to confirm or reject the hypothesis. If the results seem to demonstrate that the hypothesis is correct, then confidence begins to build in the predictive power of the hypothesis and its ability to describe the real world.

If the results seem to demonstrate that the hypothesis is incorrect, then the scientific method loops back on itself and the hypothesis is challenged, refined, modified, or discarded. The process is rigorous, thorough, and exacting. It is also deeply empirical, meaning it relies on information from the real world; it can only extract data from things that have already happened. In its most basic form, this process is what constitutes “science” as commonly referred to in media and conversation.

With common ground established, the first major problem can be addressed. It is, ironically, anti-science to ever declare that science is settled. There are a few characteristics of the scientific method that substantiate this claim. Since the scientific method is based on empirical data in relation to a hypothesis, it is reliant on the senses and perceived experiences. This means it is wholly dependent on the past. Science cannot properly predict the future; it can only model what has happened and make a reasonable projection about what could happen. Scientific law hangs on statistical probability.

In addition, since man is not omniscient, the future will forever remain unknown. As man continues to explore the physical world, there always exists the possibility that enough data will accumulate to falsify, or at least cast into doubt, a well-established scientific conclusion.

Because of these conditions, statements declaring the science to be settled are altogether unscientific: they reject the core principles and practices of the scientific method and the nature of human experience.

Such conditions expose the ridiculousness of any insinuation that science is settled. Strictly speaking, science is unable to ever be settled. Imagine the carnage if scientists around the world had retired their lab coats and accepted the alleged “clinical proof” that certain cigarettes were not actually harmful or medically superior to other brands. Fortunately, continued use of the scientific method has built a compelling counterargument that cigarettes are in fact very detrimental to the body.

The second major problem may have more perilous implications when thoroughly examined. In the preceding discussion, it is clearly shown that science is only able to approach statistical truth based on empirical evidence. Science is, however, utterly unable to tell us what is right or wrong.

There is nothing naturally occurring within the scientific method that empowers it to make value judgments or moral decisions. It cannot tell us what is good, bad, better, or worse. In essence, science is never able to say “should” or “must.”

To return to our previous example, science may conclude that wearing a helmet prevents head injuries in motorbike accidents, but it is powerless to dictate that motorists should wear helmets. To do so is to make a value judgment that can only be made by individuals.

Wearing a helmet is only prescriptive if the individual motorist values the possibility of preventing a cracked skull more than riding freely in the wind. Knowing the risks and being informed by science, most motorists would likely choose to wear a helmet, but science is unable to tell them that is the choice of highest value, since individuals have different, and differing, value systems. In regards to science, what is right is dependent on the precise ends desired by individual actors and their values.

As Austrian economist Ludwig von Mises stated, “There is no use in arguing about the adequacy of ethical precepts…. Ultimate ends are chosen by the individual’s judgments of value. They cannot be determined by scientific inquiry and logical reasoning.”

Allowing science to make universal value judgments also enables it to define morality. An example of this can be found in the debates surrounding abortion law. Science can tell us when a heartbeat begins, how developed a baby is in the first, second, and third trimester, and even the sex of the baby. But again, it is absolutely powerless to tell us whether it is or is not moral to abort the baby. Such an evaluation would rest on the value judgments and moral code of the individual.

The issue, then, with slogans like “believe in science” is the tendency to conflate science with morality and value. When science is wielded to make laws, it is most often done with a moral code attached. It has been shown that science is not able to do this, so the only way science can be used to make law is for someone, some real person or persons somewhere, to draw a moral conclusion based on the science. This personal, individual moral conclusion is then applied wholesale upon all that the law will reach. It is for this reason that science should never be used as a justification in any government action to enforce moral systems.

Doing so results in the morals and values of the few being imposed upon the many. But it is only individuals who can make decisions about what they will do in regard to any scientific consensus. F.A. Hayek put this neatly when he said that “individuals should be allowed … to follow their own values and preferences rather than somebody else’s.”

The results of any scientific study require interpretation, and any interpretation is necessarily subjective. The interpretation of results may go on to inform value judgments and moral codes. But if science moves into a space where its conclusions can never be challenged and it also determines morality, then it suddenly ceases to exhibit characteristics of science and has assumed characteristics of religion.

When conveniently married to power, an exaltation of science to this status can have disastrous effects, as evidenced by the acts committed by the Third Reich and other totalitarian regimes.

“Science cannot lie, for it’s always striving, according to the momentary state of knowledge, to deduce what is true,” Hitler famously asserted.

The further scientists drift from the scientific method to tell people what they should do, the more they undermine science and increase the potential to restrict choice, destroy human liberty, and harm real people.

It should always be remembered that while science can tell us that a phone will carry our voices through the air, it will never be able to tell us what should be said.

–Mike Roberts
Mike Roberts is a process engineer at Intel with a Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering and a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering. He is also a life-long advocate of free markets and free ideas.

www.fee.org

CHOPPER OF THE WEEK FOR SALE–

I spoke with Carlton (Marina owner). He said the seller spent about $80,000 assembling this bike. He said the tires and wheels alone were $10,000 apiece. This is more or less a collector’s piece or eye candy as you have suggested.

$29,000 OBO

CALL: 703-494-6611 LOCATED at Prince William Marina 12849 Gordon Blvd, Woodbridge, VA. This is a SPECIALTY ASSEMBLED CHOPPER that has been award winning in bike shows. It has a Softail frame with Dakota Digital gauges. The shocks are located underneath the bike. It has a S&S show polished diamond cut 124 cu. in. motor. It has a 6-speed Baker transmission. Priced to sell!

Teresa Allen
Prince William Marine Sales, Inc.
12849 Gordon Blvd.
Woodbridge, VA 22192
703-494-6611
www.pwmarina.com

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So, throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover — H. Jackson Brown Jr

STURGIS BUFFALO CHIP— Evo Entanglement Bike Show Sponsored by Bikernet.com

Three years in a row of the best prize package at the Rally!

Long known as Harley-Davidson’s most reliable and approachable power plant, many moto-historians also say the Evo engine saved the MoCo. Its 16-year+ run followed the company’s buy-out by the “gang of 14” and it ushered in stability in those post-AMF days.

The years of the Evo engine dovetailed with massive production numbers, too, so there are plenty of Evo powerplants still around. When the industry boomed in the late ‘90s and early 2000’s, Evo-style engines ran thousands more “American other” machines made by companies such as S&S Cycle to power Big Dogs, American Iron Horses, and many more.

So where are all the Evos now? That’s what we want to know! Bring yours – factory or aftermarket – to enter the 3rd Annual Evo Entanglement Show, presented by S&S Cycle, at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip on Wednesday, August 9th. Besides an opportunity for awesome profiling, you could win an S&S V-111 engine, Paughco frame, tank & front end, and $1000 Baker certificate. And that’s just one of the prizes!

Want to meet Sons of Anarchy actor Rusty Coones? Enter the show FREE (online in advance or day of show) to be eligible for the first-ever Rusty Coones Illusion Cycles Award, selected and presented by Rusty himself. The award includes a custom-made, one-off trophy crafted by Paul Wideman at Bare Knuckle Performance PLUS a super slick Whiteknuckler knife compliments of Lowbrow Customs

Also meet Show Hero Paul Wideman of Bare Knuckle Performance and Artist Darren McKeag as they arrive on their Bare Knuckle Evo Custom Chops – the bikes they rode in from Missouri, bugs and all.

Not enough? How about this:

The first 100 people to register for the show – and it’s free to register – get a FREE, Limited Edition Mint Speed Shop Flannel! Mark your size in your registration and pick it up at the show when you register at the QR code or https://www.buffalochip.com/bike_shows/evo-entanglement-bike-show-presented-by-ss-cycle/

This show gets a ton of support from major aftermarket companies. Prizes like $500 gift certificates are provided by: Drag Specialties, Saddlemen, Performance Machine, Burly Brand, Progressive Suspension, GMA, BDL, Fat Baggers, Avon Grips, Klotz, Cometic, Paul Yaffe’s Bagger Nation, NAMZ, Twin Power, Nelson Rigg, Memphis Shades, Chop Docs, Lowbrow, Biltwell, Blackout Industries, Twisted Tea and more. If it’s still more glory you seek, the Best in Show winner moves on to compete for top honors on the Buffalo Chip’s main stage Friday night in the Custom Series King (or Queen!) finals.

Classes include: Best in Show, Best Paint, Inaugural Rusty Coones Illusion Cycles Award, Chopper, Dyna/FXR, Custom Cruiser, Bagger, Survivor, Sportster. See you there.

VINTAGE INDIANS OF THE WEEK—

–Sam Burns
Feature Bike Editor
Bikernet.com™

NEWS FROM HEMMINGS AUCTION–2008 Blendzilla #2 With Electric Start

Looking to rev up your next party to nearly 10,000 rpm? The seller is offering—at no reserve—the perfect “vehicle” for the job, a little screaming machine known as Blendzilla #2. (Blendzilla #4 recently sold on this platform.) The seller bought this unique party machine from its builder, Howard Laramy of Natchitoches, Louisiana.

Apparently, Howard has been building these fun magnets for a few decades, modifying a blender to work with a two-stroke engine normally found powering a pocket bike. The seller then modified it to use electric start with a 12v battery.

The metal container holds 64 ounces of your favorite concoction. Mounted on an aluminum table that measures 13 inches square, this mega funster stands just 13.75-in. tall, or 20.75-in with the legs extended.

The seller refers to the hyper drink maker as “the Formula One of all party blenders.” (The Schumacher SC1343 battery tender for the electric starter has no connection to seven-time Formula One champion Michael Schumacher, but it’s a fun and functional touch.) Perhaps he meant Grand Prix motorcycle racing since, to operate the machine, you grab a motorcycle handlebar and twist Blendzilla’s throttle as you would open up a bike.

“It starts easily, runs well, and is easy to maintain,” the seller states. He includes a video showing operation. As he does not use the hyper-blender anymore, it’s ready for its next party animal.

POWERTRAIN
The 49-cc engine was made in China and uses a 25:1 fuel-oil mix that’s no longer allowed for emissions reasons. “Since the majority of available fuel mixes are 50:1, I always add a bit of castor oil to the fuel I purchase from a retailer,” the seller explains. “It’s better for the engine, and the castor oil smoke smells absolutely delicious!” He reports recent work including new fuel lines, the new battery tender, and a general clean-up.

Starting requires pushing a small primer bubble, sliding a choke lever, and pushing the starter button. “Twist the right handlebar to throttle it up and it will start promptly,” the seller says. “Let it warm up before cranking it up. It idles at about 2,500-3,000 rpm.” The seller affirms there are no leaks or weeps, just the sighs of disappointed party guests if you run out of fuel.

The centrifugal clutch engages the blender drive. The seller strongly suggests holding the blender lid down. “Otherwise at high rpm, it will fly off and spray everyone with what’s inside. It’s funny when it does that, but only for about a second.”

He also suggests draining residual fuel when finished then throttling it up to let it run dry. “The carburetor does better when you let the engine run dry before putting it away.”

EXTERIOR
The seller reports storing the Blendzilla indoors when not in use. He reports some wear on the metal surfaces, some scratches on the tabletop, and minor rust on the legs. Should car show judges get nitpicky, try bribing them with a drink.

https://www.hemmings.com/auction/2008-other-other-fl-682070

RETURN FROM ALASKA—

All ya’ll – the attached pic is from Glacier National Park on Going to the Sun road. If you’ve never done that ride, it is highly recommended! This was my second time, and I already want to go back.

My wife, Sherry, my buddy Mike and I are in Buffalo, Wyoming tonight. Tomorrow evening we’ll be home. It has been an AWESOME trip riding to Alaska and back. One for the books!

8000 miles, unbelievable scenery, challenging riding… and great memories. I LOVE RIDING MOTORCYCLES!!!

–Mark Buckner
MRF

KIPLING QUOTES–

“Beware of overconcern for money, or position, or glory. Someday you will meet a man who cares for none of these things. Then you will know how poor you are.” ~ Rudyard Kipling

“I keep six honest serving men (they taught me all i knew); Theirs names are What and Why and When And How And Where and Who.” ~ Rudyard Kipling

“A man can never have too much red wine, too many books, or too much ammunition” ~ Rudyard Kipling

“There is no sin so great as ignorance. Remember this.” ~ Rudyard Kipling

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

“He who faces no calamity gains no courage.” ~ Rudyard Kipling

“If you want something and don’t get it, there are only two reasons. You either really didn’t want it, or you tried to bargain over the price.” ~ Rudyard Kipling

“Believe the best of everybody.” ~ Rudyard Kipling

OKAY—So, life is nuts. Just ran into a new book ‘The Grip of Culture’, subtitled ‘The social psychology of climate change catastrophism’, is now published by Andy West. The topic seems to be heating up, but I fail to see any action or leadership supporting the truth. Don’t ever give in, I can’t.

In the meantime, I’m trying to get us registered for the BMST. I spoke to Drew Gatewood and then Delvene Manning. All is going to be sorted out.

I’ve made more progress on the trike with additional toe-in recommended by Dennis Manning and bolted down the seat. The trailer is labeled and our logos changed to South Dakota. Just two more items on the list plus the registration.

My VL, XA, FL Knucklehead project isn’t going to make it for the rally. The primary drive I choose from Cycle Tech has issues. Nothing seems to line up. I think it’s the transmission configuration and Billy from Cycle Tech or Tech Cycle has been most helpful.

Irish Rich and I worked on rear chain alignment. I had three PBI sprockets with varying offsets. We ended up reversing the deep sprocket and I was forced to machine it, exciting shit.

I also ordered shims and longer mounting studs for the bottom of the trans from McMaster Carr. They should be here today.

Since luscious fruit is available, here’s my breakfast. I can make it quick and return to work with a cup of coffee.

Catherine Palmer reminded me of our 5-Ball trophies and shot glasses, which were hand blown in San Pedro.

That’s Gearhead, the famous Bikernet fiction writer in the Chowderbarge in Wilmington having some delicious Chowder, natch.

Paul Davis sent me this shot of Joe Giovanni who was a leader in the women’s motorcycle movement and unfortunately passed too early. Great shot.