Hey,
It’s raining cats and dogs and of course someone will blame it on man-made climate change. Can’t be Global Warming, it’s too cold.
This is a big weekend in Los Angeles. Arch Motorcycles is having a party Friday Night, Mooneyes is having a show in Irwindale on Saturday and the David Mann Chopperfest is rocking Ventura on Sunday. I hope to make two outta three if it will stop raining.
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. Most recently the Smoke Out and Quick Throttle Magazine came on board.
GUN NUT REPORT–California: Firearm Excise Tax Legislation Introduced
This week, the California Legislature convened for an organizational session and swearing in ceremonies for legislators. During their short stint in Sacramento several new anti-gun proposals were introduced, including Assembly Bill 18, sponsored by Assembly Member Marc Levine (D-10).
AB 18 would place an additional excise tax on handguns and semi-automatic firearms. While the legislation lacks details of how the actual proposal will look, it expresses the intent to place an additional tax on handguns and semi-automatic firearms for distribution to various community based intervention and prevention programs. Once again, lawmakers are saddling lawful gun owners with additional taxes and fees for the misdeeds of criminals.
The legislature reconvenes on January 7 for the 2019 session and we are anticipating many more gun control proposals to be introduced. We are expecting the same push we see by anti-gun lawmakers in California year after year, more restrictions and costs placed on law abiding citizens while criminals will continue to operate outside the system and circumvent the existing laws already on the books.
Continue to check your inbox and the California Stand and Fight web page for updates on issues impacting your Second Amendment rights and hunting heritage in California.
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
A CHANGING WORLD SUNDAY POST
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/A_CHANGING_WORLD_SUNDAY_POST.aspx
Two things, Frank is laying down some killer ink! Impressive work.
Second, have you watched the Man in the High Castle on amazon tv? The premise is the US lost WW2 and the country is German run in the east and Japanese on the west coast. In between is the neutral zone. The neutral zone reminds me of your book where we have to go to live out our lives on motorcycles in the wild west.
You are prescient ol’ wise one!
Ride on
–Paul Aiken
aiken@aeromach.net
Charlotte, NC
LAW NEWS OF THE WEEK–
New Joint FAU/UM Study Shows Laws Designed to Ban or Curb Drivers’ Use of Cell Phones are Saving Lives of Motorcyclists
Laws to ban or curb drivers’ use of cell phones and other handheld devices have greatly reduced the rate of fatalities for motorcyclists, according to a new study by faculty at Florida Atlantic University and the University of Miami.
The study’s findings, recently published in Social Science & Medicine, show that states with moderate to strong bans have motorcycle fatality rates that differ by as much as 11 percent compared to states with no bans.
“In the case of motorcycles, these laws seem to be effective,” said study co-author Gulcin Gumus, Ph.D., an associate professor in health administration in the Department of Management Programs at FAU’s College of Business. “While it’s not clear that these laws have had an impact on reducing the overall number of traffic fatalities, when we focus specifically on motorcycles, we find that these laws are having a major impact in reducing deaths among motorcycle riders.”
Motorcyclists account for a much higher proportion of traffic fatalities relative to the share of motorcycles among all motor vehicles and vehicle miles driven in the U.S. The study’s authors obtained annual data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System on total and motorcycle-specific traffic fatalities for all 50 states during the period of 2005-2015.
Those data were then merged with state-specific characteristics, texting/handheld device laws, as well as other traffic policies to estimate the effectiveness of strong, moderate and weak bans compared to no bans.
While automobile safety has greatly improved over the last several decades, bringing the overall fatality rates down with it, motorcycle fatality rates have not declined. Although research is mixed on the effectiveness of texting/handheld bans for overall traffic fatalities, the study’s findings indicate that motorcyclists are at elevated risk of being a victim of distracted driving and thus could greatly benefit from these policies. This result is driven mainly by multiple-vehicle crashes (e.g., car hitting motorcycle) as opposed to single-vehicle crashes.
“Every day about nine Americans are killed and more than 1,000 are injured in traffic crashes that involve distracted drivers,” said study co-author Michael T. French, professor of health economics in the Miami Business School’s Department of Health Management and Policy and an avid motorcycle rider. “While our initial goal was to understand whether these laws save lives on the road, the broader application of our findings is even more powerful.”
The researchers argue policy makers should consider strengthening texting/handheld bans along with their enforcement to improve safety and save lives, especially among motorcyclists.
“We have a better appreciation for the range of policies across states and years, and what makes texting/handheld bans strong and effective, especially for motorcyclists,” French said. “Hopefully these results will facilitate a more informed discussion between legislators, law enforcement officers, and the general public about distracted driving and traffic safety.”
These areas provide opportunities for faculty and students to build upon FAU’s existing strengths in research and scholarship. For more information, visit www.fau.edu.
–Jim Hellegaard
HEAD OF BIKERNET SECURITY STAFF PASSES—In a surprise show of aging process, Tank shut down and stopped eating suddenly. We raced him to the Western Vet Clinic and they drew blood.
The findings were confirmed and after some investigation we determined Tank’s age well over 100, amazing for a pound mutt. He will be sorely missed.
–Bandit
NEWS FROM THE RODDER’S JOURNAL–Page Flippin’ & Calendar Shippin’
Our 2019 calendars are in stock and shipping now! These full-size calendars celebrate our 25th anniversary, and they’re filled with a carefully curated mix of hot rods, customs and racecars that we feel represents our first quarter-century in print. (That’s right, TRJ has been publishing since 1994). Only 2,500 have been printed and when they’re gone, they’re gone. Each calendar is signed and numbered by the publisher.
Measuring 15×23 inches, these calendars are like oversized issues of TRJ for your wall. In addition to the world-class, full-color photography, they also include important car show dates throughout the year. Just like the magazine, they’re printed with pride in the U.S.A.
To place an order, click the box above or give us a call at (800) 750-9550 in the United States, (877) 479-2627 in Canada or (650) 246-8920 internationally.
Cheers!
Your Friends at The Rodder’s Journal
P.S. Our 2019 Holiday Catalog is in the mail and on our website here.
CRY WOLF STORY–Short Stories: The Boy Who Cried Wolf by Aesop. A shepherd-boy, who watched a flock of sheep near a village, brought out the villagers three or four times by crying out, “Wolf! Wolf!” and when his neighbors came to help him, laughed at them for their pains. The Wolf, however, did truly come at last.
In our case Al Gore cried wolf about Climate Change and the real wolf is Infrastructure.
–Bandit
EASYRIDERS COMING TO CHARLOTTE– Just realized the Easyriders show here in Charlotte NC is the National Invitational Show. It has always been in Columbus Ohio.
This is great news for the bikers here in Charlotte!
–STEALTH
THE NEWEST CANTINA GALLERY– The 2018 Deadwood Legends Ride. What a terrific ride and especially its reason for being.
The bikes are amazing and Jack does it again with stellar photos, even from the top of buildings.
Check out the images in this gallery of the pre-ride and next year, try to attend. You won’t be disappointed.
The Deadwood gallery has been added to the site – https://www.bikernet.com/pages/DEADWOOD_2018.aspx
–JACK MCINTYRE
Co-editor of Bandit’s Cantina
BIKERNET.COM
jackmcintyrephoto.com
GS – BECAUSE WEEKENDS WERE MADE FOR FUN!–The new exclusive t-shirt for all BMW GS riders and fans
What were weekends invented for? Tons of fun on exciting excursions with a BMW GS, of course! That is why the print of the new t-shirt for the riders and fans of this bestseller on two wheels reads: “GS – BECAUSE WEEKENDS WERE MADE FOR FUN!”
The white supersized print brings this motto to life in concert with a GS emblem, which takes up the domains of this enduro bike – winding roads and high mountains.
The black high-quality “GS – BECAUSE WEEKENDS WERE MADE FOR FUN!” t-shirt sells for 23 euros and comes in sizes M to 3XL. It sells exclusively online at www.BeemerGS.com.
NEWS FROM HAWAII–Aloha to everyone that came out to support & who joined us on the 44th Annual Toy Parade Ride this past Sunday. Also thank you all for showing and welcoming Kurt Yeager & Jenny to Hawaii. It was great to share the Aloha Spirit, Hawaii’s Culture and the “Local Biker Life Style” with Kurt & Jenny.
They really enjoyed there visit here & enjoyed everyone’s company. I also want thank & give a Big Mahalo to the Kanaka Hekili MC for allowing Kurt & Jenny to be our “Guest Riders” on the Toy Parade Ride and also making them feel like part of the Ohana!
Thank you also to the Street Biker Union of Hawaii SBUH for organizing such a great event each year. The 44th Annual Toy Parade was another successful event…. will see you guys next year & Ride Safe!
This is the divider
Race Ready Fitness
I would like to acknowledge a really close friend of mine. Thank you to Chris Cousins for bringing down Kurt Yeager & Jenny to Hawaii & having me be their guide and giving them a glimpse on the Biker Life Style here in Hawaii.
Chris has created Race Ready Inc. as a means to help you prepare to meet and exceed your goals and dreams through coaching, managing, and health, fitness, and nutritional training. No matter who you are, you’re background or history, Chris and the Race Ready Team want to prepare you for the ride of your life.
Visit: racereadyfitness.webs.com
Kanaka Hekili MC
Big Congratulations to the Kanaka Hekili MC on recently celebrating their 15th year Anniversary!
Thank you to our club President Mr. B for organizing one of Hawaii’s Finest “Family Oriented Bike Clubs” in Hawaii & giving me the opportunity be part of a great club and to ride next to some of Hawaii’s Finest Bike Riders!
Thank you to all my Kanaka brothers & Sisters that always give their time to coordinated and volunteer on every special events that we we organized especially for making this year’s Xmas Party one to remember!
Thank you to the “Kanaka Officers” for doing what they do best….and I thank all the Kanaka Hekili MC Chapters from the Outer-Island and from the mainland who made the journey to make it to the 15th Kanaka Hekili MC Anniversary!
Last but not least, I wanted to address & give a Special Thanks to two Kanaka Hekili MC Members for lending out their motorcycles to Kurt Yeager & Jenny making their ride with the Kanakas one they will never forget!
Thank you “Hambone” for letting Kurt Yeager use your Street Glide for the ride, and Thank you “Gerry Welsh” for letting Jenny use your Slim for the Toy Parade Ride. You guys are Awesome & are true Brothas!
Visit Kanaka Hekili Mc
CHOW HALL OF THE WEEK– WINGS, BONE SAUCE and PORK CHOP!!
These wings will lift you right up off of your feet! The Bone Sauce that Pit Master Pork Chop makes is so good that I can drink it straight out of a cup (They make a Bloody with it).
These wings are Dry Rubbed, Smoked, Deep Fried and then tossed in The Bone Sauce! Get to South Moon BBQ in Hinckley, IL. Their food is so good they have been on Chicago’s Best twice.
They also have a location in Sandwich, IL.
–Bikerdude
POWERPLANT PARTS THAT WORK–P16 RISERS – BLACK
$ 289.95
Please select a size
5, 8 and 10-inch
DESCRIPTION
High Quality Aircraft Aluminum. Includes Stainless ARP Hardware. Features I-Beam design for maximum strength and stability.
Fits 1-inch bars and most stock Harley- Davidson models.
Made Here in Los Angeles, CA. Available in 5, 8 and 10-inch tall.
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GEORGE CHRISTIE ESCAPES TO SPAIN–
George left for Spain on Thursday. He is working on the series, but I don’t exactly what he is doing from day to day. He will be acting sometimes, and working with the writers and advising the producers on other days.
More specific info and photos coming soon.
–Fred Anderson
[page break]
WACO NEWS–Judge says Twin Peaks civil lawsuits can proceed
U.S. District Judge Alan Albright’s ruling during a 40-minute teleconference with attorneys in the cases does not include the two dozen bikers with pending criminal cases in McLennan County, only those with civil suits pending whose criminal cases have been dismissed or those who were never indicted.
The lawsuits allege McLennan County, city of Waco and state officials violated the plaintiffs’ civil rights by wrongfully arresting the bikers en masse and without probable cause after the May 2015 shootout at the former Twin Peaks restaurant that left nine bikers dead and 20 wounded. About 200 bikers were arrested and 155 initially were indicted on identical engaging in organized criminal activity cases.
The bulk of those criminal cases were dismissed after McLennan County District Attorney Abel Reyna was defeated by Barry Johnson in the March Republican primary.
The lawsuits were filed in Travis County, where Senior U.S. District Judge Sam Sparks had issued a stay on the civil proceedings while state and federal criminal cases against leaders of the Bandidos motorcycle group were being played out in Waco and San Antonio.
Sparks has since transferred the cases to Albright, who was sworn in as Waco’s new federal judge in September.
Sparks denied a motion last year from defendants in the case to transfer the cases from Austin to Waco. On Friday, Albright was asked by Mike Dixon, who represents the city of Waco in the Twin Peaks suits, if he would consider another motion asking that the cases be heard in Waco.
Albright said he will review Sparks’ ruling on the venue matter, but said his “gut reaction” is to allow the plaintiffs to have the cases heard where they chose to file the lawsuits, which is in Austin.
Federal courts in Waco and Austin are part of the sprawling federal Western District of Texas.
Albright’s lifting of the stay allows the plaintiffs to amend their petitions and for the defense to file challenges to the claims. After that stage, attorneys will seek discovery and schedule depositions.
Tom Brandt, who represents McLennan County and Reyna, told the judge he will be filing motions claiming defenses of qualified immunity and said deposing Reyna and others should be postponed until the judge rules on his motion to dismiss the cases.
Albright left it with the attorneys on both sides to work together and said he would get involved in discovery issues when the sides could not agree.
He compared the complex case with multiple parties to “herding cats.”
Besides McLennan County, Reyna and the city of Waco, other defendants include former Waco Police Chief Brent Stroman; Waco Detective Manuel Chavez; Waco police officials Robert Lanning, Jeffrey Rogers and Patrick Swanton; and Department of Public Safety officials Steven Schwartz and Christopher Frost.
One of the suits also names Peaktastic Beverage, which held Twin Peaks’ liquor license; Front Burner Restaurants, the former franchise holder; and Twin Restaurant Investment Co., the restaurant chain owner.
— https://www.wacotrib.com/news/courts
–from Rogue
QUICK, OPEN THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY–
Q: What does it mean when your boyfriend is in your bed gasping for breath and calling your name?
A: You didn’t hold the pillow down long enough.
–from Rogue
HAL ROBINSON ART DISPUTE RESOLVED, SORTA—After reviewing Ann Robinson’s documents from Lou Kimzey and her attorney, we concluded that she never had any rights to use Hal’s work and Joe Teresi, the Supreme Emperor of Easyrider was correct in his request.
Joe cut me some slack on the time we have to sell off our inventory, and Ann Robinson wants to know how much it would take to purchase Hal’s art? The game isn’t over yet.
Hang on for more reports. This maybe the last of them and then maybe not.
–Bandit
5-BALL BONNEVILLE SALT FLATS BOOK NEWS FROM WOLFGANG– You should have a copy of the Pete Hill book – if not it will show up soon.
And… I plan to convert the Bonneville Salt Flats motorcycle to a print-on-demand book – available through the ‘net.
The POD version will carry a higher price of $32.95 US. (Amazon has some copies for sale at $64.00).
–Timothy Remus
Wolfgang Publications
I believe the Worlds Fastest Panhead build book is $22 at the 5-Ball Racing Garage Shop site.
NEWS FROM THE CALIFORNIA MOTORCYCLE DEALERS ASSOCIATION–
CARB is determined to do away with new Red Sticker (2-stroke) motorcycle sales, so I’ve been busy trying to forestall the inevitable, as long as possible.
Since the last time that we spoke about the increased enforcement for the use of non-CARB-certified aftermarket parts, there were one or two more workshops, but then, CARB went dark. So, I don’t have much to report on that.
The enforcement staff was going to try and get a booth or presence at the last SEMA show; if you attended, did you see them there? They would have been clearly identified. They wanted to access as wide a dealer and user audience as possible.
They chose cars because that represents a much bigger problem than motorcycles, even though probably more motorcycles per population have, at least, technically been modified.
— John Paliwoda
Executive Director
California Motorcycle Dealers Association
MUSIC NEWS–Plus, Cody Johnson concert rescheduled to March 2, 2019.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – East Tennessee’s most legendary nightclub, Cotton Eyed Joe, is proud to announce their #ShowAtTheJoe December lineup which brings Tobi Lee & Mustang Sally, and The Lacs to the stage.
New Year’s Eve at Cotton Eyed Joe will be done the right way, with tons of party favors and giveaways, plus a balloon drop at midnight with champagne. More details to be announced at CottonEyedJoe.com
Additionally, the Cody Johnson concert originally set for November 30, has been rescheduled to March 2, 2019. All tickets purchased for the November 30 date will be transferred to March 2, 2019.
December Concerts & Special Events:
DEC 06 – Tobi Lee & Mustang Sally
DEC 07 – The Lacs
NEWS FROM INDIAN LARRY–Because we know you had enough in your inbox regarding Black Friday deals and Cyber Monday sales, we’ve decided to wait and send our savings a week later! Our Cyber Monday deals will only apply to online orders where we are gifting 25% OFF all apparel, accessories and select parts. Take advantage of this great ONE DAY ONLY deal and get your holiday shopping done early.
Enter code ‘CYBER’ upon checkout
All of our parts are handmade and built to last. The attention to detail is so unique to the Indian Larry name and is the definition of quality. Treat yourself or that special someone to something that is both practical and eye catching.
Question Everything Foot Pegs
$300
Push Rod Collars
$150 – $240
Our fashion encompasses styles for both men and women. Graphic tees, vets, caps and more you’re sure to find something for everyone!
Sale does not apply to bikes for sale, builds or frames.
Our mailing address is:
Indian Larry Motorcycles
70 North 14th Street
Brooklyn, NY 11222
FEMA’s news update–This is a news update from FEMA, the Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Associations.
FEMA’s mission is to promote riders’ interests, to defend riders’ rights and to protect and preserve motorcycling throughout Europe and globally.
European Council: ‘motorcycle safety must be part of road safety procedures’
The European ministers for transport agreed to reform and strengthen road infrastructure management rules. It will become mandatory to take account of vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists in road safety management procedures.
The European ministers for transport gathered in Brussels for a meeting of the Council of the European Union, where they agreed to reform and strengthen road infrastructure management rules.
The Council of the European Union agreed its position on a proposal from the 3rd Mobility package by the European Commission to strengthen road infrastructure management to reduce road fatalities and serious injuries.
The Council of the European Union is the institution representing the member states’ governments. Also known informally as the EU Council, it is where national ministers from each EU country meet to adopt laws and coordinate policies. Photo: European Union.
The reform of the Road Infrastructure Safety Management Directive will extend the scope of the current rules to motorways and other primary roads beyond the trans-European transport network (TEN-T). This will contribute significantly to the improvement of road infrastructure safety across the European Union. The directive would also cover roads outside urban areas that are built using EU funding (which is something FEMA has been lobbying for extensively).
‘It will become mandatory to take account of vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists in road safety management procedures’
The proposal introduces a network-wide road safety assessment, which is a snapshot of the entire road network covered by the directive used to evaluate accident risk. Authorities will use the findings to carry out more targeted road safety inspections or take direct remedial action.
It will become mandatory to take systematic account of pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists and other users of powered two-wheelers in road safety management procedures. These road users accounted for almost half of road fatalities in the EU in 2017.
The presidency of the European Union is currently held by Austria. Norbert Hofer, Minister for Transport, Innovation and Technology of Austria, said: “Well-designed and properly maintained roads reduce the risk of road accidents. This reform will help the EU to progress towards its goal of halving the number of road deaths by 2020.”
FEMA general secretary Dolf Willigers “This is a pleasant surprise. The decision of the Council is exactly what we have asked for. This is great news for motorcyclists. From now on road authorities will have to take vulnerable road users, including motorcyclists, into account with all decisions regarding the main roads in Europe. This will lead to an better road safety for us. It is now up to the European Parliament to follow this good example.”
Top photograph by Husqvarna.
VETERANS’ NEWS--Bike club, nonprofit say Cove police hurt fundraiser for veterans
Frenchy Brea, chairman of the United Clubs of Waco, was joined by more than 20 fellow motorcyclists in Tuesday night’s regularly scheduled Copperas Cove City Council meeting.
The otherwise laid back council chambers inside the Technology Center grew tense when Brea expressed “great disappointment” in the city’s police department.
The Copperas Cove Silverbacks, a motorcycle club among 70 that comprise United Clubs of Waco, and Killeen nonprofit We Leave No One Behind, held a bike washing fundraiser in support of veterans Sept. 17 at the nightclub TrackSide on Joe’s Road off U.S. Business Highway 190. They say the Copperas Cove Police Department had an over-the-top presence that dissuaded residents from attending the event.
“They staged their vehicles just off the property and created the appearance that something was going on at this establishment, causing several groups who were planning on attending this event to turn around,” Brea said. “This, in turn, took money away from the fundraiser.”
Squad cars lined around the property, Brea said, and eight police officers and several Department of Public Safety officers could be seen inside the club.
“Your police department is attempting to profile, harass and intimidate motorcycle clubs,” Brea told the Copperas Cove City Council, mayor and interim city manager.
After Brea’s alotted five minutes during the public forum portion of the council meeting expired, James “Righteous” Norwood, president of We Leave No One Behind, echoed many of his sentiments.
We Leave No One Behind works with area police to connect veterans in crisis to mental health resources. In addition to free counseling, the group says it has provided hotel rooms, meals and transportation in certain circumstances.
Norwood, an active-duty major in the Army, said forming the organization was inspired when a police officer in 2015 contacted him after encountering a veteran in crisis while on call.
“There were things that were done and decisions that were made that negatively affected the motorcycle club’s ability to sponsor our charity,” Norwood said. “We provide person-to-person contact continually … the prejudice that was used against the individuals in the motorcycle club, who were doing something to benefit the community on a whole — is that a good thing to do? Should we allow preconceptions to affect our decision-making process?”
“They just kept showing up,” Bryant said. “They surrounded us in the bar. There was nothing for them to do.”
Sgt. Kevin Miller, CCPD spokesman, said the department assesses the necessary response in every situation, and feels the presence at the event held by the Silverbacks and We Leave No One Behind was appropriate.
“It is distressing that the presence of public safety officers at an event is viewed as being prejudiced or inappropriate when it was neither,” Miller said in a written statement. “CCPD and the City will continue to work proactively with organizations and events to provide an environment that’s safe for all involved.”
TrackSide staff could not be reached for comment.
–by Matt Payne
Herald staff writer
http://kdhnews.com/news/local/
–from Rogue
THE NEW BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY FOCUSES ON ONE-LINERS–
Q: What do you call 2 guys fighting over a slut?
A: Tug-of-whore.
Q: If the world is a Jacket where do poor people live?
A: In the hood.
Q: What’s the cure for marriage?
A: Alcoholism.
–from Rogue
ANOTHER PIECE FROM THE BALL DYNASTY–Angel I made today at the shop, my client was in town from San Jose. I tattooed him in October up at the Bay Area convention in San Francisco a couple months back. He wanted a cherub to represent the good.
–Frank Ball Jr.
MORE FROM FEMA–Will Banning Bikes Solve Spain’s Pollution Problems?
Member news by Wim Taal – November 26, 2018
The Spanish cities of Barcelona and Madrid will make entering the city centre on a motorcycle virtually impossible. This is reported by Spanish FEMA member AMM (Asociación Mutua Motera).
In the last decade the Spanish city of Madrid, for example, took measures to counter pollution by lowering speed limits on roads entering the capital. Madrid also introduced APRs (Áreas de Prioridad Residencial), areas where non-residents are not allowed to drive.
Until now, motorcycles have been exempt from any restrictions, but that is about to end on 30 November 2018. At that date the existing APRs will be extended and united into one big APR, called Central Madrid. The new APR will cover practically the entire downtown area of Madrid.
Residents may enter the area in their vehicles but only park in their own neighbourhood. Non-residents whose vehicles hold CERO and ECO energy labels may also enter the area. And those with B or C energy labels may only enter to park in a private or public parking lot, not in the street.
AMM will be part of the protest on Sunday 2 December in Barcelona. The protest is organized by AMC (Catalonian Motera Association) along with other organizations. Click on the AMM logo for a full statement in Spanish.
– Zero: electric with a range of 40 km or more
– ECO: electric with a range of less than 40 km
– C: internal combustion, Euro 3 or Euro 4 regulation
– B: internal combustion, Euro 2 regulation
– Without classification: they do not fulfil any of the previous conditions
For motorcyclists, the new rules in Madrid will forbid access to the city centre with bikes that are registered before 2003 (38.79% of motorcycles in Madrid are registered before 1 July 2003 and have no classification). There are only 1,625 electric motorcycles and 897 electric mopeds in Madrid. Motorcycles registered after 1 July 2003 can only enter the city between 07.00-22.00h. The fine for riding a bike into the city without the correct environmental classification label will be 90 Euro’s.
The determent of motorcycle and moped use in Madrid will not be limited to the new environmental regime: under new rules, motorcycle parking on sidewalks will be restricted. However, Madrid has 350,164 registered motorcycles and 94,113 registered mopeds, and only 6.500 dedicated parking spaces for motorcycles.
Approximately three quarters of a million people commute into the city to work every day; approximately 32.250 of these commuters use a motorcycle or other powered two-wheeler to go to work or school. If these riders were to switch to a car or to public transport, congestion (and therefore pollution) would become a lot worse.
Motorcycles should be exempt from any measure because of the benefits they bring in easing congestion in the city. Motorcyclists are not standing still in traffic jams and motorcyclists do not ride around looking for a parking space. Authorities in Madrid are focussing on walking, cycling and public transport, omitting the fact that motorcycles should be part of the mobility mix.
Top photograph by Moto1pro
NEWS ALERT FROM THE ANTIQUE MOTORCYCLE CLUB OF AMERICA--Seven AMCA Members Lose Homes to California Fires
We are writing to let you know about a serious loss suffered by a group of your fellow AMCA members. On November 8, seven Club members, all from the Ishi Chapter in Northern California, had their homes destroyed in what is now known as the massive Camp Fire in the state.
Never before in the AMCA’s history have we had so many members involved in a single tragedy. Jim Dent, Rick Haner, Craig Horner, Tom Kelly, Al Kmiecik, Mike McKinley and Brad Watkins experienced the loss of their homes and a combined total of nearly 100 antique motorcycles.
Those of us in the AMCA family are looking for ways to help in this difficult time. Although each of these members is covered by insurance, we know that the process of settling claims and rebuilding their lives will take time and resources.
Therefore, we have setup a GoFundMe account to facilitate any donations to which our membership can contribute.
In addition to or in lieu of monetary support, any help with tools, parts, vehicle loan, etc., would be greatly appreciated.
For more information please contact AMCA Ishi Chapter President, Budd Schwab at:
To make a financial donation via GoFundMe.
Photo by: AP
–Antique Motorcycle Club of America
EBR Motorcycles are back in limited production--EBR Motorcycles, the American-made superbike designed by the legendary Erik Buell, are back in limited production.
“We are going to keep the iconic brand in production with specialized and performance builds.” says Bill Melvin, an avid motorcyclist who is leading the company he acquired in 2016.
When high volume production at EBR’s Wisconsin assembly plant ended in 2017, Melvin moved a smaller operation to his e-commerce warehouse in Grand Rapids, Mich. EBR, which maintains its original offices in East Troy, Wis., has been fulfilling parts orders from the inventory for dealers and existing EBR owners ever since.
Now, EBR plans to keep the iconic brand alive on the street and track with production in Grand Rapids. EBR brought two of its top assemblers to Grand Rapids, where they are hand-building three of the exotic EBR 1190 superbikes, capable of hitting over 185mph in race trim.
“The approach is to keep it boutique and high performance driven, ala Bugatti, Koenigsegg, or Lotus,” Melvin says. More updates and motorcycles are planned for 2019, he adds.
Engine builder Eric Weber “Eroc” and chassis builder Elliot Malzahn recently put the finishing touches on their first three editions, whose fairings will get custom paint treatments to celebrate their return.
Weber began building motorcycles at the Buell factory in 1996. Malzahn began in 2000.
“It’s great to see the iconic legacy in experienced hands like Eroc and Elliot,” says Melvin. “We are fortunate the team of legacy employees stay involved to keep the only American Superbike in production. We recently received our 2019 EPA certification.”
The Erik Buell-designed motorcycle is unique with its fuel tank incorporated into the aluminum frame to keep its center of gravity in an ideal position. The front brake rotor is located on the perimeter of the wheel with an 8-piston inside-out caliper to maximize stopping power.
The hand-built fuel-injected 1190cc V-twin engine produces a peak of 185 hp at 10600 rpm. The final pricing will be determined by the custom finishing touches.
The company is part of the 35 year legacy of Erik Buell, a motorcycle racer and world renowned engineer for Harley-Davidson and the Buell Motorcycle Company in the 1980s.
Mr. Buell started EBR in 2010 and Mr. Melvin acquired the assets of the company in 2016.
Melvin and his father, Bill Melvin Sr., are motorcycle enthusiasts & industry experts with involvement in the sale process of the Indian Motorcycle factory in 2004, the American Ironhorse Motorcycle factory in 2009, the Buell factory in 2010, and have assisted in the sale of major distributors, dealers, and suppliers.
For more information about EBR Motorcycles, call 262-642-1627 or email info@EBR.com
MAG UK Discusses Biking With The Mayor Of London
The British Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) has held a long-awaited meeting with Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan. The topics: motorcycle access to bus lanes and the threat bikers will be charged in London’s Ultra-Low Emissions Zone.
The meeting was the result of months of lobbying, and the hugely helpful intervention of Greater London Authority Assembly Member Keith Prince AM, who secured and attended the meeting. Lembit Öpik and Colin Brown from MAG’s Political Unit were also present.
Following MAG’s visit to Mayor Khan at the Greater London Authority’s headquarters in City Hall, on 27th November 2018, MAG’s London Regional Rep, Tim Fawthrop said: “It’s been a long time coming, but it was worth the wait.”
“We covered two items,” continues Tim. “One was bus lanes and the other was the threat to charge bikers in the Ultra-Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ Charge) if their motorbikes are beyond a certain age. MAG argues that this is unfair because bikes reduce congestion and pollution and make no measurable contribution to London’s emissions. I suggested that we should find a way to exempt those bikes that can be shown to have very low emissions, and the Mayor agreed to allow us to explore this further with his staff, which is a good outcome.”
The discussion on bus lanes was even more encouraging. Mr Prince, who organised the meeting, said: “Mayor Khan agreed that motorcycles should be allowed into bus lanes. He assured us that all the so-called Red Routes in London, which are directly under TfL’s control, would remain open to bikes. He also said he’ll work with MAG to encourage the London Boroughs to open their routes up too. I’m glad to see the Mayor honour the promise he made on this matter.”
Next, MAG will meet the relevant officers to explore the best way to progress both matters. MAG’s Lembit Öpik adds: “It’s a credit to the Mayor that the meeting was not just a box-ticking exercise, but a real chance to talk about our ideas and suggestions. It leaves me optimistic about Mr Khan’s attitude towards biking now, and I’m happy to say so.”
Member news by Wim Taal
–FEMA
CLIMATE QUOTE OF THE WEEK– Identifying a potential human fingerprint on recent sea level rise is confounded by the large magnitude of natural internal variability associated with ocean circulation patterns. There is not yet convincing evidence of a fingerprint on sea level rise associated with human-caused global warming:
The slow emergence of fossil fuel emissions prior to 1950 did not contribute significantly to sea level rise observed in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The recent acceleration in mean global sea level rise (since 1995) is caused by mass loss from Greenland that appears to have been larger during the 1930s, with both periods associated with the warm phase of the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation.
by Judith Curry
I’m publishing this through my company Climate Forecast Applications Network (CFAN) as a Special Report. I regard the currently posted version to be final, although I will correct any errors that are spotted.
NEWS FROM KLOCKWERKS–Shout out to my beautiful fiancé’ tonight. She works full time at Klock Werks, goes to Dakota Wesleyan University full time for her CPA and Marketing degrees, works another part time job at LA Realty Partners and has private accounting clients as well.
Not to mention an upcoming wedding (23 days left) come celebrate my #wcw in Deadwood,SD Deadwood Mountain Grand on December 28th from 6:30 pm on at our reception!!
Love you
— Vanessa Nay
with Deadwood Mountain Grand.
–from Rogue
VINTAGE RIDES IN THAILAND– Every rider will tell you the same: What makes motorcycle trips so unique is that they offer a new approach to travelling, to discovery. On a saddle, you remain open to people and the elements, the smells and colours. With a twist of a handlebar you can go wherever you please, at your own pace, while steering clear of the timed tourist tours.
This week, we’d like to introduce two atypical trips around Thailand.
This summer, for those of you who want to have it your way, we feature a Freedom Formula: starting at two riders, you can rent our trusted Royal Enfields, a GPS and set out for the Thai roadtrip of a lifetime. The land of smiles offers stunning open roads, misty forests and lush jungle, dazzling temples and some of the most hospitable people around. The essence of motorcycle travel, we dare say!
Freedom Formula in North Thailand
13 days incl. 10 days riding
Set your own dates
Many consider motorcycling more of a man thing. We beg to differ! After a first in Rajasthan, the Girls Ride — Vintage Rides 100% female motorcycle adventure — is taking the most daring riders to Southern Thailand.
Staying true to our authentic way to travel, they’ll take their wheels alongside stunning beaches, verdant tropical mountains, national parks bustling with wildlife and ancient cities. Ladies, it’s time to make your engine roar!
Girls Ride
9 days incl. 6 days riding
22nd to 31st March 2019
https://www.vintagerides.travel/motorcycle-tour/thailand
Photo credits: Elisabeth Fieujean / Hervé Fieujean
–Vintage Rides
At Grand Tour Coworking (by appointment only)
30 rue des Trois Bornes
75011 PARIS
hello@vintagerides.com
+442032898785
THE BANDIT’S CANTINA BAD JOKE LIBRARY IS IMPROVING–
An elderly, but hardy, cattleman from Texas once told a young female neighbor that if she wanted to live a long life, the secret was to
sprinkle a pinch of gunpowder on her oatmeal each morning.
She did this religiously and lived to the ripe old age of 103. She left behind 11 children, 30 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren, five
great-great-grandchildren…. and a 40-foot hole where the crematorium used to be..
–Sam Burns
THE MOST EXPENSIVE WATCH IN MONTANA– Debuting January 2019
Jeffrey created the Montana Watch Company 20 years ago and we have been extremely loyal to our look…but time’s are a-changin’ and we decided to update the look and feel of our travel showcase and branding to reflect the look our truly American Made brand.
The main background above shows off our Paradise Valley and the meandering Yellowstone River as it makes its way past Mallards Rest. The beautiful image, captured by Tyler Sharp (Modern Huntsman Magazine) really depicts everything there is to love about our neck of the woods. And a big beautiful Model 1920CE displaying the engraving of Jake Newell’s talented hands (Custom Hand Engraving) and Clint Wilkinson’s expert leather work (Wilkinson’s Fine Goods) is like nothing you have ever seen.
Then when the whole 20 feet is lit up…POW! It’s pretty impressive.
We will be debuting it in Reno at the Safari Club Convention January 9-12. Then it will travel with us to Dallas on January 17-20 for Dallas Safari Club then to Reno in February for the Wild Sheep Foundation. We are really excited to show it and our new aesthetic off. We will be continuing the feel on our social media and paper collateral as Jeff has been busy designing a new website to complete the new look for our 20th as well. Stay tuned and here’s to 20 more years!
The incredible 1930GT Lifestory Timepiece. This particular Lifestory is the second we have built as it highlights Bristol, Talledega, Atlanta IR and Daytona in addition to Nascar itself along with the family farm of the owner of this one-of-a-kind heirloom custom timepiece.
SCOTT JACOBS SITE HACKED–THANK YOU!
My family and staff saw how stressed out and emotional I was this past week. I tried keeping my emotions hidden from our collectors as I scrambled behind the scenes to save the website I’ve worked so hard to build.
I received numerous emails and messages from clients letting me know exactly what was happening on the customer’s side.
It brings tears to my eyes knowing so many people are looking out for the well-being of my family business. As a Thank You, I’ve created a coupon to show our gratitude.
15% OFF Code: thankyou2018
Expires 12/31/18. Excludes Sale Items.
HOUSEHOLD WARNING OF THE WEEK—Never buy a dog when you’re drunk.
–Tom Roth and Bobby Stark
NEVER STOP OR EVEN SLOW DOWN—Sam Burns suggested we take a hard look at the Can-Am Ryker. I’ve assigned it to couple of our reporters. Let’s see who grabs the reigns and runs with it.
The rain has slowed some and the streets are less flooded. In Califa or in LA they have installed grates over the storm drains. I clean the one on the corner on a regular basis, but I wonder what happens around the city. They can immediately clog the drains and prevent them from doing what they were intended to do.
Moving forward, we are making changes to the Bikernet business model and I reach out to anyone and all of our contributors. Jack McIntyre was very helpful this week and I hope we can count on him to load his galleries on a regular basis. He’s also involved in a trucking company, which snatches most of his time, but he would rather cover events photographically. Unfortunately journalism doesn’t pay the bills currently.
I believe Jack hit the nail on the head with his suggestions, but it’s up to me to implement them. My son and grandson are on their way to New York to be tattooed by a master. We will bring you a report.
I’ve mentioned a couple of times about the roll of business owners. Small or large these people are basically responsible for everything from the janitor to product development, to marketing. Some look at rich guys and scoff, but essentially they are making the boat float or sink. I’m in a roll-the-dice situation. It’s time for change.
Now making the tough decision are key and implementing them my job. Times are tough in the publishing world, but what the hell. At Bikernet and Bandit’s Cantina we’re all about having fun, fighting for freedom and keeping the light on. Can’t be that tough.
Ride free forever,
–Bandit
