THE STRANGE BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for May 11, 2023
By Bandit |
Hey,
Get this. I thought it was the 12th today, my computer said it was the 10th and my calendar called it the 11th. Strange times.
Hell, look at the news. Wait, you better not. It’s not good. Biden Energy Secretary is cracking down on dishwashers to save the planet from climate doom.
I can’t look at the news anymore, it’s nuts.
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, Las Vegas Bikefest, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.
DENNIS KIRK HAS ALL YOUR EVO NEEDS COVERED—From engines to replacement parts.
They have carbureted and injected engines.
Here’s an example:
S&S Cycle Polished V124Ei Assembled Engine – 310-0665
Certified for “new build” bikes, S&S offers the 124 for 49-state EPA engine packages.
FITMENT: Aftermarket frames with motor mounts for 1984–’99 big twins
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
49-state emissions legal
S&S Delphi style EFI with Classic Teardrop air cleaner cover
Chrome gearcover, tappet covers, and rocker covers
Includes all required certification, documentation and labels
Two-year warranty
OLD ROYAL ENFIELD DISCOVERED—
I wish I could send it to you. Enfield India started assembling these motorcycles in 1955. When the UK company went defunct in 1970s, Enfield India was already manufacturing them under license. Soon they owned the British company because we wanted these — the economy was closed and Japanese and other companies including CocaCola were not allowed entry to protect the closed market. After liberalisation in economy, it meant cool Japanese bikes and cars for all. Enfield was forced to either reinvent themselves or become extinct like its colonial ancestor.
Yup, they reinvented themselves alright! Enfield is now again a global player in motorcycle industry.
The 1955 chassis was more or less the same as in this one (and same as my 2007 Bullet). Even the engine had seen very little changes since 1955 model Std Bullet.
I don’t know if it’s mid-life crisis wanting to own this old technology, but it’s a carburetor based mechanical machine — unlike modern motorcycles full of technology that won’t work in a dystopian future (as in the novel Sam Chopper Orwell by Keith ‘Bandit’ Ball).
I will send you some photos after they do some polishing and buffing and minor repairs on it. In all it cost me $1100 to make it look younger, register it as a new owner and get mandatory insurance. After 2026, I will have to again apply to the transport department for “Fitness Test” where they will decide if this vehicle is road-worthy.
Meanwhile, here is a blast from my youthful past –photos of my first Enfield from 2007.
–UD
International News Desk
SPEAKING OF BOOKS—We are revisiting my second book Outlaw Justice and I ran across this quote:
When he was a younger man, John had cared for the bike like it was his Rolls Royce. But his nature was changing. The scoot still meant more to John than any other material possession, but drugs, violence, and cheap thrills were getting in the way. What once had been his ticket to women, the key to his unbridled mobility, and his vehicle on the freeway to freedom, now shared the limelight with whiskey and white powder. His patch and the bike were John’s only property, his brothers, his sole companions.
We hope to have new model available in the near future. The last version was sold out. There is a version available in Bandit’s Cantina.
–Bandit
THE LATEST FROM LINDBY–
Adjustable Footrest for the FLH Models
Chrome Black FLH Model
$449.99
The Lindby Custom Adjustable Footrest for the FLH Models
High-tensile, triple chrome-plated 1-1/4? steel tubing construction with the Lindby Custom unique look and protection that’s unparalleled.
Features:
Front bars are made from 1 1/4? high-strength steel for long-lasting durability.
Replaceable Bonded Rubber Footrests provide traction and added comfort and traction in all climates.
Available in triple-chrome-plated or gloss black powder-coat finish.
BRAND – HARLEY DAVIDSON
AVAILABILITY – IN-STOCK
“The Lindby organization is moving into a new facility.” –Bandit
TEXAS WEATHER REPORT–
Went up to MC Creations today, the humidity from just that short trip about 11 and I’m back hiding in the garage today.
Is it a 68/69(?) Sportster, 1970 original Shovelhead & mine has 2 tanks and bags back on her!
–RFR
NEWS FROM THE TIP OF THE CLIMATE WEATHER STATION–What a bunch of losers.
It is the knowledge they are losing the battle for hearts and minds which is what is driving radical greens to ever more frantic attempts to grab public attention. In the very near future they will be completely isolated – attention is already shifting to the next great fake crisis, the threat of malevolent AI.
One day soon, in the not too distant future, we will look on green radicals as just another kind of quirky survivalist, just another bunch of frightened people holed up in their bunkers, wasting their lives away waiting for the apocalypse which never arrives.
–WUWT
5-BALL RACING NEW SHOP—Frankie is setting it up in Venice, California, in an alley behind the coolest area in town.
I took the Dicey Knuckle out for a ride after the winter. I was wearing a 5/8 Jak shirt.
I’m wearing a light speedway vest in this shot.
Check our line-up online.
–Bandit
SPEAKING OF CLIMATE DOOM—
A local company runs and operates billboards around the Sturgis, SD area. If they don’t have a customer, they have free billboard art to post from non-profits. Unfortunately, this supposedly non-profit provides them with political messages like the one above.
Last year I posted an opposing view regarding CO2 and stoves. I’ve come up with another notion. A photo of a beached whale against a shot of an ocean mounted wind generator with the line: A WHALE OF A MISTAKE
What do you think?
–Bandit
NEWS FROM THE LAW TIGER TEAM—American Flat Track Sacramento Mile, May 13, 2023, Gates Open at 2:00 pm
Get ready for a heart-pumping, adrenaline-fueled motorcycle racing experience at the American Flat Track Sacramento Mile, presented by Law Tigers! Held on May 13 in Sacramento, California, this event is the pinnacle of professional flat track racing, featuring top riders and teams from around the world.
Watch as competitors navigate the challenging one-mile dirt track at speeds of over 100 miles per hour, battling it out for supremacy in multiple race categories, including the AFT Twins, AFT Singles, and AFT Production Twins.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. With Law Tigers as the proud sponsor of the event, you can also expect a fun-filled atmosphere, complete with live music, delicious food and drink vendors, and plenty of other entertainment options.
525 Fentress Blvd. Ste B Daytona Beach, FL 32114
THE BIKER MOVIE RELEASED—
I will send you the packaged set of the dvds for you. If you don’t have a dvd player I’ll get you one if you like.
It’s been going really good…just getting things off the ground. Giving some copies away to people who are in the movie or support it.
Building an arsenal of really good reviews and quotes from people to launch on my other pages.
I’ve got one hell of a movie. You won’t be disappointed!
–Pete Alva
DYNA SEATS FROM LE PERA—
The world is your playground… shred it! This is the seat that every adventurous rider would be stoked to own. The maximized back support and ample seating area offer plenty of options for riding – or showing off – at a moment’s notice.
Shown with TDV Brown Distressed Vinyl seating and sides with the Diamond Stitch. Also available with Basket Weave, Pleated Stitch and our new Gripp Tape material – for when traction is needed! Many other custom materials and stitch graphics are available as well!
Specs
Driver Seating: 11″ Wide
Passenger Seating: N/A
MSRP: $560.00
Part Number: LK-591DMBRNBK [’06-’17] Dyna
BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER FINDINGS—
“Socialized medicine has only one way to guarantee its own survival: by killing its customers.
Normal medicine – meaning free-market medicine – has only one way to guarantee its own survival: by CURING its customers.
There actually IS a difference between socialized medicine and capitalist medicine And it’s the same difference that exists between life and death: meaning; it’s huge.
–J.J. Solari
WISDOM QUOTE FOR THE WEEK:
“In a society that has you counting money, pounds, calories, and steps, be a rebel and count your blessings instead.” ~ Lisa Heckman
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–Bon Ami King Charles
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/Bon_Ami_King_Charles.aspx
Good analysis of the new king. He’s been waiting so long. With any luck William will ascend soon. Diana got royally screwed again. She would’ve made a much more pleasing queen than dogface, but then there was a price to pay.
–Rhys
Florida
WEEKLY DOSE OF INSPIRATION–
Do not love half lovers
Do not entertain half friends
Do not live half a life
and do not die a half death
If you choose silence, then be silent
When you speak, do so until you are finished
Do not silence yourself to say something
And do not speak to be silent
If you accept, then express it bluntly
Do not mask it
If you refuse then be clear about it
for an ambiguous refusal is but a weak acceptance
Do not accept half a solution
Do not believe half truths
Do not dream half a dream
Do not fantasize about half hopes
Half the way will get you no where
Half an idea will bear you no results
Half a life is a life you didn’t live,
A word you have not said
A smile you postponed
A love you have not had
A friendship you did not know
The half is a mere moment of inability
but you are able for you are not half a being
You are a whole that exists to live a life
not half a life.
~ Khalil Gibran
JIMS HOT PRODUCT OF THE WEEK—
Part No. 6021, 6023 – JIMS Milwaukee Eight Low Profile Billet Tappet Covers & Pushrod Cover Kits
Part No. 6021, 6023 – JIMS® Milwaukee Eight Low Profile Billet Tappet Covers & Pushrod Cover Kits
The tappet covers on the Milwaukee Eight engine have grown substantially in height compared to Twin Cam engines. This additional height not only makes it challenging to adjust pushrods, but the covers have lost a bit of styling in their redesign. Make way for the new JIMS billet “low profile” Milwaukee Eight tappet covers.
Not only do the JIMS tappet covers have a sleek new look, but they are approximately 1/2? lower then stock – making pushrod adjustment easy to do. Made from 6061 billet aluminum, these covers have JIMS “DNA” embedded in their design & work with stock and aftermarket alignment guides.
To achieve this height difference, the covers were designed to be installed with Twin Cam pushrod covers, they will NOT work with standard Milwaukee Eight pushrod covers. JIMS also offers these tappet covers with JIMS billet pushrod covers for the ultimate valve train cover upgrade for your Milwaukee Eight engine.
MSRP for the tappet cover kits, available in black and chrome range from $251.00 to $321.00. MSRP for the tappet cover AND pushrod cover kits, also available in black and chrome, range from $656.00 to $795.00.
For more information, please contact us at (805) 482-6913, email us at sales@jimsusa.com, or visit www.jimsusa.com.
ARTIST OF THE WEEK—Billy Cune
I believe we featured Billy before, but if we didn’t here’s the master.
–Sam Burns
Official Art Curator
Bikernet.com™
NEW FROM NASH–THE KNUCKLE BUCKLE WITH STRIPE BELT–Limited Quantities
The Knuckle Buckle is the latest collaboration between Nash Motorcycle Co and Jason Momoa’s On The Roam.
Jason and Taber Nash both have a passion for Harley’s first OHV motor, the iconic Knucklehead. First developed in 1936 this motor transcended the 2nd World War and developed a cult following from Harley enthusiasts and custom bike builders around the globe.
To commemorate the unique design of this motor, Jason and Taber have designed The Knuckle Buckle. Cast in bronze with an antique finish and polished Knuckle Nuts. A prodigy that is built to last a lifetime just like the venerable Knucklehead engine.
These buckles are a limited run and once they’re gone, they’re history!
The Knucklehead belt is crafted from 100% high-grade thick 8-10oz leather that is guaranteed to hold your pants up for years of hard work. These belts are natural tanned and burned leather for a unique striped look and stamped with KNUCKLEHEAD across the back as well as the On The Roam and Nash Motor Co. logos.
These belts do not have a slot for a traditional frame & prong style belt buckle.
LG Buckle – 5″ x 2.25″
Regular Buckle – 3.75″ x 1.75″
LG Buckle Belt – 1.75″ Wide
Regular Buckle Belt – 1.5″ Wide
Belt Sizing:
SM (WAIST SIZE 28-30)
MD (WAIST SIZE 32 – 34)
LG (WAIST SIZE 36 – 38)
XL (WAIST SIZE 40-42)
2XL (WAIST SIZE 44-46)
Nicolas Serrazin works at The Forge de la grenouillère in Bizanet, France. Ironwork, sculptures, stair rails, knives, almost anything iron.
WORDS FROM THE EMERALD TEMPLE—
There are four very important words in life:
Love, honesty, truth, respect.
Without these in your life, you have nothing.
–Ray Russell
Senior Monk
Bikernet Down Under Temple
Australia
BIKERNET BOOK OF THE WEEK CLUB—
Are you looking for a new book to lose yourself in? Want a good old-fashioned Western? What about a Thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with these stories for just $0.99!
Special 99¢ Deals
Diablo Double Cross by Robert Vaughan
A WESTERN ADVENTURE FILLED TO THE BRIM WITH ACTION AND INTRIGUE
DIABLO DOUBLE CROSS
Introducing Marcus Quinn and his raiders: ex-rebels out to take what they can get and then some. The war between the States is over, and Quinn’s Raiders, the fiercest unit of guerrilla fighters in the South, are on their way to Texas to swing for their crimes. But no Yankee prison train can hold these boys for long.
$0.99
[page break]
BLACK HILLS MOTORCYCLE SHOW SPONSORED BY LAW TIGERS–Black Hills Motorcycle Show
May 27. 2023
Noon – 8:00 pm
Join Law Tigers for a thrilling day of motorcycle excitement at the Black Hills Motorcycle Show on May 27! Located in Rapid City, South Dakota, this event is a celebration of all things motorcycle, featuring an impressive lineup of bikes, vendors, and entertainment.
Get up close and personal with some of the most stunning motorcycles in the country, from classic vintage models to sleek modern machines. And with a range of vendors on site, you can also check out the latest gear and accessories, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy a range of other fun activities.
You can even Register To Win –
$2,500 worth of Paul Yaffe original/bagger nation products installed by Deadwood custom cycles!
Enter email on their website to register to win!
** must be present at Black Hills Motorcycle Show to WIN **
Black Hills Motorcycle Show
Deadwood, South Dakota 57732, United States
NEW WindVest Windshields–The 14×14-inch Gun Smoke screen with Black Hardware for 2010-2017 HD Fatboy Lo
The Gun Smoke tint is available in most sizes and can mount to any of our hardware.
The design of our windshields gives you the ability to look over the top of the screen and yet getting the wind protection of a larger windshield.
Take the fatigue out of your ride and keep that cool blacked-out look
Order Yours Today!
408-762-8180
877-370-7326 toll free
sales@windvest.com
www.windvest.com
Also available in clear and light smoke. Hardware finish in chrome or powder coat black.
NEW FROM INDIAN—
Indian Motorcycle today continues its ‘Forged’ custom Sport Chief video series, releasing the second of its three-bike build series (video here). For this build, Indian Motorcycle tapped Jake Cutler from Barnstorm Cycles to create a one-of-a-kind custom Sport Chief for highly decorated MMA fighter T.J. Dillashaw.
When designing the bike, Cutler wanted to create a locked-in riding position. To achieve this, Cutler narrowed the tank and added knee cutouts to allow T.J. to tuck into the bike for a more comfortable and secure riding position.
For the seat, Cutler used custom upholstery with gripper fabric. The handlebars are raised two inches with a slight pull back, while the front end was lifted an inch. With color-matched wheels, the bike’s high-finish paint was completed by Blue Moon Kustoms in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
“The end result of the bike is pretty much how I mapped it out,” said Cutler. “The colors are where I wanted them to be, the design is what I was hoping it would be.”
The Indian Motorcycle ‘Forged’ series will conclude with the final build by Carey Hart, set to debut May 18.
Episode 1:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiKSFgKKP8A&t=33s
Episode 2:
https://youtu.be/lptE_xv5vmg
Parts List: 2023 Indian Motorcycle Sport Chief
- Beringer Brake Master and Clutch Cable Control
- Barnstorm Hand Control Transition adapters
- Barnett +2″ Clutch and Brake Cables
- Barnstorm “Lane Splitter” +2″ Pullback
- Handlebar Risers for Chief Models
- Indian Motorcycle Stock Sport Chief Moto style Handlebars
- Joker machine Left Side Bar end Mirror
- Hart Luck ODI Grips
- Front end lifted 1″ with Bareknuckle Performance INDIAN CHALLENGER FORK EXTENSION
- Kuryakn Bullet Atto Amber front turns
- LED Headlight with custom extension mount.
- Joker Machine Pegs “Race” Foot Pegs
- RSD Traction Shift and Brake Pegs
- Barnstorm Chief/Chieftain Final drive chain conversion
- Barnstorm + Audette Motorcycles Complete Thunderstroke Engine cover set:
- Revere cam cover
- Renegade horn cover
- Revere outer valve covers
- “BBolt” Sprocket Cover
- Barnstorm + Audette Motorcycle Moto Hi-Flo air Intake
- Barnstorm “BBolt” Primary Cover medallion
- Barnstorm signature modified gas tank with hand fabricated “Knee cuts.”
- Custom seat upholstery stitched by Seamless Custom in Leicester, Massachusetts
- Custom Powder coating done by C.A.S. Services in Oxford Massachusetts
- Custom paint sprayed Blue Moon Kustoms is Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Photo credits: Sean MacD,
Drew Ruiz
THIS JUST IN, New Bikernet Reader Comment!—
THE WHACKY BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for Cinco de Mayo, 2023
(Click here to read the Whacky News)
I’m REALLY interested in learning MORE about that Paul Cox Primary Drive set-up. It might look GREAT in the Indian Board Track re-creation I’m build right now….
Get in touch with me Bandit….or I’ll be huntin’ YOU down…
–El Waggs
airstreamstudio@live.com
Oceanside, CA
THE BIKER LOVE POME– Saved Las Vegas
I dreamt that we were at the Bellagio
lookin’ at the fountain
Your hand went down my pantage front
You said my balls they needed countin’
And while you were takin’ inventory
My semen count was mountin’.
Your hand felt like a lotus
On my scrotal baggage
You said “I cannot help but notice
You’ve got a lotta saggage”
I said “You should not talk of scrotes
A-dragging on the ground
Because, my dear, between your legs
Are the ears of a basset hound
Dangling far below your crotch
Like two large theater curtains
That you must think are coy enticements
In your arsenal of flirtins
But let me tell you something toots
That you might find surprising
When it gets cold my sagging balls
They start into a-rising
No longer do they scrape the ground
Unlike your groinal dewlaps
You’d trip and fall a thousand times
Were you to run a few laps
No matter what the weather was
You’d walk on your dragging labs
You’d also trip and fall a lot
From slipping on your crabs
That even now are in cascading
Downpours of disgust
At having spent their miserable lives
Meandering through your crust
And all the other things between your legs
That do not have a name
That even HR Giger
Could not draw and frame”
You then said “This is poetry!
Your words ignite my crotch!
Let’s fuck here on the sidewalk
and kick Las Vegas up a notch!”
And so, we fucked there on the street
Me with my sagging balls
And you with your two slabs of meat
Like dangling overalls
We inspired the crowds of passersby
They applauded and threw coins
That we had elevated Las Vegas
With the union of our groins
To Sin City status once again
As it had been in the past
Now statues of us fucking
Line the streets of sin at last
We saved Las Vegas from the kids
that once had owned the town
They fled my sagging stench-filled balls
And your crusty crotch-slabs hanging down
Burma shave.
–J.J. Solari
THE GUN NUT FIND OF THE WEEK– NOW AVAILABLE IN 9MM
For those that demand a no-nonsense approach to their defensive grade pistol, the new Operator® 1911 in 9mm stands ready to deliver. Crafted on the solid foundation of a forged frame, slide and barrel, the Operator 1911 builds on the century-plus of service behind the gun and adds the benefit of the ever-popular 9mm round.
Tactical Rack rear/tritium front sights, G10 grips, ambi safety, two 9-round magazines with bumper pads, forward cocking serrations, and more combine to make the Operator 1911 from Springfield Armory a must-have tool for self-defense.
OPERATOR 1911
—www.springfield-armory.com
PANHEAD DEAL OF THE WEEK— $23,500.00 from Clint Landry. Greg at MC Creations in Houston can help.
I wonder how original it actually is?
–Sam Burns
BETCHA DIDN’T KNOW …
The liquid inside young coconuts can be used as a substitute for Blood plasma.
***************
No piece of paper can be folded in half more than seven (7) times.
Oh, go ahead.. I’ll wait…
****************
Donkeys kill more people annually than plane crashes or shark attacks.
(So, watch your Ass)
************
You burn more calories sleeping than you do watching television
**************
Oak trees do not produce acorns until they are fifty (50) years of age, or older.
****************
The first product to have a bar code was Wrigley’s gum.
*************
The King of Hearts is the only king WITHOUT A MUSTACHE
***************
American Airlines saved $40,000 in 1987 by eliminating one (1) olive
From each salad served in first-class.
**************
Venus is the only planet that rotates clockwise
(Since Venus is normally associated with women, what does this tell you?)
(Those women are going in the ‘right’ direction…?)
****** *********
Apples, not caffeine, are more efficient at waking you up in the morning.
***********
Most dust particles in your house are made from DEAD SKIN!
************ ****
The first owner of the Marlboro Company died of lung cancer.
So did the first ‘Marlboro Man’.
***************
Walt Disney was afraid OF MICE!
**************
PEARLS DISSOLVE IN VINEGAR!
******** *********
The ten most valuable brand names on earth: Apple, Coca Cola, Google, IBM, Microsoft, GE, McDonalds, Samsung, Intel, and Toyota,
in that order.
************
A duck’s quack doesn’t echo, and no one knows why.
************
Dentists have recommended that a toothbrush be kept at least six (6) feet away from a toilet to avoid airborne particles resulting from the flush.
(I keep my toothbrush in the living room now!)
***************
Turtles can breathe through their butts
(I know some people like that; don’t YOU?)
************* *******
Remember, knowledge is everything, so pass it on…..
Now go move your toothbrush!
–DR. Feel Good
LAW TIGERS SPONSORED EVENT–Tennessee Motorcycles & Music Revival
Rev up your engines and get ready to rock out at the Tennessee Motorcycles & Music Revival, sponsored by Law Tigers! From May 18-21, Hurricane Mills, Tennessee, will be the place to be for an unforgettable celebration of motorcycles and music.
Experience the thrill of the open road with guided rides, motorcycle demos, and a vintage bike show. And when the sun goes down, the party heats up with a lineup of legendary musical acts, including Whey Jennings, Nikki Lane, Paul Cauthen and many more.
But that’s not all – with Law Tigers as the proud sponsor of the event, you can also expect a range of exciting entertainment options, delicious food and drink vendors, and an atmosphere of camaraderie and community among fellow motorcycle enthusiasts.
Loretta Lynn’s Ranch
8000 Tennessee Highway 13, Hurricane Mills, Tennessee 37078
THE 5-SPEED FILES–
I’ve run several stock Softail 5-speeds on old 4-speed frames. No problem at all. I ran the whole Softail primary assembly from about 1990 on the last chopper I built.
I find them on eBay for under $500. None of that cutting is necessary if you can space out your knucklehead engine sprocket enough to match the clutch you are running. I get that you might be running an original knucklehead bottom end with the old tapered keyed output shaft.
I have had great luck with Ultima 2-inch belt drive kit. But was always running a cone motor so I could run the inner brace.
You got me thinking now. I love the transmissions with splined main shaft so you can run a modern clutch but with those old motors you could run an engine pulley for a 3-inch belt and run a 2-inch or 1 ½-inch on it and make it run straight that way.
–Bill May
New TECH Bikernet Reader Comment!–
WIRE PLUS Wiring System for the Bikernet/Cycle Source 15th Sweeps Bike
(click here to read the Wire Plus Article)
Can you help me? I am searching for wireplus light module it’s on an OCC CHOPPER 2009.
–Normand de Chantal
Djnorm@sympatico.ca
Qu?bec city , QC, Canada
“Wire Plus is missed. But fortunately NAMZ has most everything anyone needs regarding wiring and electronics.”
THE ENERGY SECTOR–
Bill Gates had referred to Terrapower, his unique modern power generation company in the documentary about him titled “Inside Bill’s Brain” on Netflix.
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10837476/
He hired a guy who holds the maximum patents, all of which are critical to US Armed Forces. With his input they realized no research has been done on nuclear power for over 50 decades — so they did the research to build a prototype of a nuclear power plant that’s safe and generates far less nuclear waste.
In the documentary he explains how the Japan Fukushima reactor accident happened, and why it can easily be avoided.
Now, here is the working real world nuclear power plant of Bill Gates and his key Terrapower people.
https://www.gatesnotes.com/Wyoming-TerraPower
TerraPower is partly funded by the US Department of Energy (DOE) and Los Alamos National Laboratory. TerraPower chose traveling wave reactors (TWRs) as its primary technology. Their major benefit is high fuel utilization that does not require nuclear reprocessing and could eliminate the need to enrich uranium.
ELECTRIC Bikernet Reader comment
It would seem that these people humping the electric bandwagon are overlooking the cost of these batteries in the elements used to make them and most of them are not recycle friendly and hard to put out when they burn. I will stick with my fossil fuel.
I guess future generation just won’t be able to listen to the sound of a big block and 4-speed, and I sure as hell do not want my Harley to hum.
–A.J.
TRADITIONAL BIKERNET Reader Comment—Speed Meets Style
Kool bike (chopper) BUT, I do NOT understand why, what in my day, the ’70s, THIS was a ‘Chopper’. This one is certainly a much more elaborate one than the ones in the ’60 & ’70’s, but NOT a Bobber’.
SO my question is; why NOW is that style being referred to as a Bobber and not a chopper??? It doesn’t look anything like what I remember and know to be a Bobber.
HOW about doing an article or feature on Traditional Bobbers. The bikes that inspired chopper. Let’s educate these young’ns
Just say’n
–El Waggs
BOB AND WEAVE FOR FREEDOM—
I feel like I’m bobbin’ and weavin’ to dodge restrictions and keep riding free. Sometimes, I feel like a broken record. I only want the truth, goddammit.
This week was jammed with projects from yard art to the Knucklehead. I had to switch-up the goofy pond art for an antique wheel. Crazy
Finished our ¾ base road to the shop the other day and arranged for more parking. May start to look into an enclosed trailer for the Salt Torpedo.
Waiting on a call from Airhart’s customs regarding the ’58 Chevy. Took the Redhead a dozen calls and two dozen photos and documents to get the damn thing insured.
Got the parts to build a flag pole but needed to coat them with metal paint. Almost there, and then I want to test the fit before we attempt to put them in position… Hang on.
We used this jack for the Torpedo trailer operation, but in the end it failed. I ordered another jack, but when I opened the instructions, it mentioned the oil level and how to check it. I did, it was down. Bada bing, fixed. I serviced it and we’ll see.
New shop art from Buck Lovell. It’s an Indian Prince from 1926. Note the noisy kicker on left and low tires. He seriously worked over the original sepia print to create this master.
I jammed to Lonnie Sr’s shop to discuss a 1913 twin engine and he and Rob were cleaning the shop and needed to move a lift. I told them about this puppy.
The Redhead escaped to visit her folks, so I’m on the lamb and back to top Ramen with chicken and vegetables and avocado toast. Not bad.
I’ll bring you an update on Dan’s projects next week including these pocket valves. You could carry a spare in your tool box.
I’m hoping to spend the weekend working on the Knucklehead. Let’s see.
Ride free, forever!
–Bandit
The Strange Bikernet Weekly News for May 11, 2023
By Wayfarer |
Strange is a calm word for the News…
Click Here to read this week’s news only on Bikernet.com
I feel like I’m bobbin’ and weavin’ to dodge restrictions and keep riding free. Sometimes, I feel like a broken record. I only want the truth, goddammit. This week was jammed with projects from yard art to the Knucklehead.
Frankie is setting up a new 5-Ball Racing Shop in Venice, California, in an alley behind the coolest area in town.
I’m hoping to spend the weekend working on the Knucklehead. Let’s see.
Ride free, forever!
–Bandit
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A Touch of Motorcycle Engine History
By Sam Burns |
The versatility of J.A.P. engine design can be seen in their stationary engines, which have powered a wide array of industrial equipment such as generators, rotavators, water pumps, milking machines, hay lifts, and numerous machines in the agricultural industry.
–Sam Burns
Antique motorcycle curator
A Touch of Motorcycle Engine History
By Wayfarer |
by Sam Burns
J.A.P Prestwich, otherwise known as J.A.P.
In the early years of motorcycle manufacturing, many manufacturers used bought-in engines for their motorcycles as the cost of developing engines was beyond the means of many of them. Of all the manufacturers of proprietary engines, possibly the most famous was J.A. Prestwich, otherwise known as J.A.P.
Without the J.A.P. engine, many British motorcycle manufacturers would never have got off the ground and, over the years, J.A.P. supplied engines to Brough Superior, Triumph, AJS, Enfield, HRD-Vincent and Zenith, as well as manufacturers in France and Germany.
Click Here to Read this Blast From The Past only on Bikernet.com
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Celebrating Life of Still Ray Fitzgerald
By Wayfarer |
We will be hosting a celebration of life for Still Ray Fitzgerald on Saturday, May 13th 12:00 at 840 Rodeo drive, Prescott, AZ — MRF
The Financial Weightage of Light-Weight Motorcycles
By Ujjwal Dey |
Why did Japanese motorcycle wave wipe-out the UK and then almost the US motorcycling brands?
What was the circumstances in the 1970s and now?
How different is the global economy at present?
1.Not only are motorcycles meant for recreation, it is a legitimate and essential commuter vehicle on most parts of the world.
2.Tiny Jap engines saved petrol at an era when petrol crises plagued the world and petro-dollars came into creation.
3.At present, Asia, South America and Africa purchase more two-wheelers than USA probably did in its entire existence (or rather since motorcycles existed).
4.Lighter the weight of the motorcycles, the easier it is for vast majority of the world’s population to maneuver the motorcycle.
Got a puncture? Out of gasoline? You may not be able to move the V-Twin, but you would be able to push a smaller engine motorcycle to the side of the road all by yourself.
First time riding a motorcycle? Well, why not try to learn riding a horse rather than riding an elephant?
They would make the mid-weight class look like a run-of-the-mill hack job, with the primary focus on cutting costs wherever possible.
Thankfully, Royal Enfield changed all of that and stepped up its game with each new model release.
Lightweight motorcycles are finally getting the attention and respect they deserve. They are not only saviors of the motorcycle manufacturing industry, they are letting people keep their jobs while adding new avenues to employment through aftermarket parts, accessories and apparel finally getting some sales momentum in Asia.
In mythology, a Lord Hanuman sets fire to the golden city of demons. Allegorically, these crap lightweight two-wheeler makers were the demons torturing the masses who needed motorcycles and scooters for daily use. Then an Indo-British company grabbed larger and meatier pieces of the sales pie-charts month after month, growing (literally) exponentially every year. They saw opportunity where others saw a fantasy. Enfield was the Hanuman that destroyed the mediocrity in lightweight and mid-weight motorcycles.
If in 2007, instead of my first Enfield Bullet 350, I had purchased equity shares of the company equivalent to the price of the motorcycle – I would’ve been a millionaire in 2017.
Such was the wildfire and brand mania generated by their new UCE engine, then the Classic 350 retro design and to top it off, an upgraded J1 engine platform. And you know what?
The fire is still blazing!
Enfield is selling dozens of motorcycles of each of its 9 models everyday – with each of them available in multiple variants. Their success and brand recall was such that they also launched a “Make It Yours” app and campaign encouraging the youth to customize their motorcycles as per their vision.
Youth is the key; India has the largest youth population in the world – which means there are millions of educated employed young men and women buying two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
This is reflecting in the sales of four-wheelers as well. Just as young India has passed on purchase of 100cc or 125cc motorcycles, going for 350 or 650cc Enfield engines – similarly, sales of compact cars have dropped sharply in India. The purchasing power, passion and ambition is driving sales of sedans and SUVs.
No wonder, Enfield surprised, nay, rocked their world with a Meteor 650cc tourer which is truly a best-in-class touring motorcycle. It looks better than its Japanese counterparts, more affordable than its European ancestors, very lightweight compared to the American legends.
Enfield has made a large dent globally, by setting up dealerships across UK and Europe. They have a North America HQ right there in Milwaukee, heart of motorcycling industry. Flat-track racing got them noticed and BUILD-TRAIN-RACE program truly made them endearing to custom culture community in USA.
Just as in Hollywood, lot of the macho-image for Enfield in India comes from the movie industry. Out of 121 languages recognized by India, 22 are used commonly in government and civilian life. So, in such a diverse culture, having a common aspect of action-hero on an Enfield is not a small miracle – it’s a reflection of history and society.
Enfield was first imported and then manufactured under license in India for use of its military and police officers. In fact, even today you might spot an Enfield rifle in a third-tier city or village of India. No, you can’t auction that Enfield rifle on Ebay because its government property and civilians are not allowed ownership of guns.
Well, what’s the next best thing to an Enfield Rifle?
Made Like a Gun, Goes Like a Bullet !
No, it’s not a bird or a plane or Superman – it’s the Royal Enfield 350cc Std Bullet model motorcycle – which has never been out of production ever since it was conceived in Enfield, UK. Yes, that is indeed a world record for longest running production model in the world.
What Enfield did for motorcycles, TVS Motors did for scooters. TVS’ innovative design and functionality boosted its scooter brand, thus fighting Honda which had the largest chunk of scooter sales.
So, whereas Europe and USA wants to ban all gasoline engine vehicles, instead of downsizing their ‘gassy’-burger – the Asian, South American and African nations are ‘supersizing’ their two-wheelers.
This is an appetite for destruction. Kipling was right. East is East and the West is West; and never shall the twain meet.
USA’s push for ethanol is reflected in Asia as well. India allows far more ethanol in petrol than their American counterparts. This is because India imports 86% of its crude oil requirements. Hence, to save the pretty petro-dollars, India is giving plenty of sops and subsidies for electric vehicles and allowing ethanol in petroleum.
Yet, there is no consensus among consumers and rightly so. The bloody electric thingies explode on a daily basis. In a nation plagued by terrorists from their unfriendly neighborhood Jihadistan – last thing office-going regular folk want is explosions in the streets and homes.
A benefit USA has over Asia is the number of nuclear power reactors. Asian and African economies depend on coal, hydro-power and other fossil fuels to generate electricity. Therefore, saving of crude oil import while burning more fossil-fuel for electricity basically defeats the entire purpose of switching to electric vehicles. Saving our environment, the planet Earth, if it needs to be saved.
In conclusion, all one can say is ICE engines is far from getting dissolved into evil through the lens of global warming. Motorcycles and scooters should be replacing those huge SUVs and sedans. Unless you car-pool daily, you are not in need of a car. This is especially true in most nations outside USA. In India there is a ‘luxury tax’ on certain products which are clearly waste of money by the super-rich. Surely, a$$holes who ride a gigantic truck-sized SUV alone to work in bottle-neck traffic of metro cities in India should not be paying the same price for gas as a motorcycle rider or compact-car driver.
Tax people per square meter of their vehicle size when selling them petrol or diesel. Similar to real estate.
Like I said earlier, in my previous related article (click here), “people don’t change when they are given a choice, people change when there is no choice.”
Meanwhile, celebrate lightweight motorcycles. It’s healthy just like you on your bathroom weighing scales. Volume sales for the company, fuel-efficiency for the government, and ease of use for you the rider.
Financial Weightage of Light-Weight Motorcycles
By Wayfarer |
Volume Sales, Fuel-efficiency, On-road manoeuvrability
A decade ago, almost all manufacturers released fairly uninspired, derivative lightweight motorcycles that fit the commuter model, and sold like hot cakes irrespective of lacking common features in American bikes. Not to mention they were fugly like Satan’s spawn.
They would make the mid-weight class look like a run-of-the-mill hack job, with the primary focus on cutting costs wherever possible.
Thankfully, Royal Enfield changed all of that and stepped up its game with each new model release.
Click here to read this global report on emerging motorcycle market.
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Sidecar Take On Coronation
By Wayfarer |
King Charles III Coronation:
Sidecar Seating Reserved
French TF1 secured a couple of Urals to cover the Coronation of King Charles III in London from the sidecar POV!
We will be posting updates of Urals navigating streets of London during this historic event on our social media channels.
Do tune in!
Big thanks to Rob and Zayne at Gusto Motorbikes and Mike at TheSidecarGuysLondon for assisting with logistics, driving, filming and most of all for representing Ural with all their heart and top level effort.
Humbled and grateful to have them on our team!
— Ural Motorcycles
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Metzeler Extends Spring Moto Rebate Program
By Wayfarer |
Metzeler Extends Spring Moto Rebate Program Through July 31, 2023
Popular Rebate Program Also Expanded to Canada and Features Eligible Street and Off-Road Tires
ATLANTA (May 5, 2023) – Metzeler North America is pleased to announce that the spring moto rebate program has been extended for residents of the United States and expanded to include residents of Canada. This program allows motorcycle enthusiasts who purchase Metzeler tires through their local participating dealership and select online retailers to receive as much as $25 USD / $40 CAD rebate per tire or $60 USD / $100 CAD rebate per tire set on eligible street and off-road tires through July 31, 2023.
https://metzelerrebates.brandecation.com/
“Metzeler is thrilled to extend the spring moto rebate within the United States as well as open it up to residents of Canada,” said Brian Davenport, Senior Sales Manager, Metzeler. “The Metzeler brand continues to expand its presence across all segments in 2023, making it a priority for us to include a variety of products and ensure that it benefits all Metzeler riders.”
A $25 USD / $40 CAD per tire rebate or $60 USD / $100 CAD rebate per tire set will be offered for the Metzeler Lasertec™, Enduro 3 Sahara, Racetec™ RR, Sportec™ M9 RR, Sportec™ M7 RR, Roadtec™ 01 SE, Roadtec™ 01, Roadtec™ Z8 Interact, Cruisetec™, ME 888 Marathon™ Ultra, Tourance™ Next, Tourance™ Next 2, Karoo™ Street, and Karoo™ 4. Additionally, the MCE 6 Days Extreme, MC360™ Mid Soft, and MC360™ Mid Hard are eligible for a $20 CAD per tire rebate or $30 USD / $50 CAD per tire set rebate.
This offer is valid for a limited time only on purchases made between March 1, 2023, and July 31, 2023, and for legal United States and Canada residents. After purchasing a set of qualifying Metzeler tires from a local dealer, participants must fill out a claim form and provide a receipt for proof of purchase to receive their physical or digital VISA prepaid card.
For official terms and conditions, click here.
About METZELER: Metzeler has manufactured motorcycle tires since 1892 and our history goes hand in hand with the history of the motorcycle. From the use of new materials and the development of innovative tread designs to the introduction of advanced rubber compounds, the German brand is always at the forefront of technical development. Learn more at www.metzeler.com.
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Jacob’s Gallery: new releases
By Wayfarer |
I know it’s technically been Spring for over a month, but in South Dakota, it started getting warm this week! 😮
When we think of the warm sunshine, my family thinks of tequila by the pool or a tasty red wine at dinner.
We pulled Scott’s Patron Platinum painting from our Archives to release as the Spring/Cinco de Maya edition!
The second image is a Caymus painting that many collectors have been waiting months for. It’s a dramatic wine painting called “Cabulous” because frankly, it’s FABULOUS!
Scott’s 82nd Sturgis Rally AND Daytona Bike Week paintings are available.
Refer: https://jacobsgalleryshop.com
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