Hey,
I’m watching a documentary series on the Curse of Oak Island. Folks have been searching there for buried treasure for 200 years. Six dudes have died hunting, and so far, no one has found anything except little trinkets. Amazing.
Get this, I even published an article 35 years ago about Shakespeare original manuscripts buried on Oak Island by the real author. Incredible.
I’m also watching another series on the Brain and much of it discusses mindfulness and recently the history of meditation. Meditation started before Buddha, but he was a great practitioner and student of meditation. It works for anxiety and brain strength and longevity. Amazing.
What’s this got to do with motorcycles? Nothing and everything. The first speaks to brothers who want to build their own custom motorcycle, but never seem to get off the dime. Desire is everything. Following the correct path is everything.
And the brain is often the only thing keeping us moving forward, or not. Through meditation we’ve discovered we can change and or open our minds. One of the major benefits for meditation is decision making. We react less and relax and take more time with decisions. Could save your life or a relationship. 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.
VINTAGE ELECTRIC INTRODUCES POWERFUL NEW 48-VOLT THROTTLE BIKE INSPIRED BY CARROLL SHELBY’S LEGENDARY COBRA–
Using Most Powerful Battery Pack Yet, Vintage Electric Presents Hot Rod Two-Wheeler Celebrating One of Motorsports Most Famous Race Cars, the Cobra
SANTA CLARA, CA – Vintage Electric is known for designing high-performance electric bikes that perfectly pair bygone-era aesthetic with state-of-the-art technology. Now, ahead of the major motion picture release documenting one of the greatest racing victories of all time in Ford v Ferrari, Vintage Electric is excited to present the all-new 48-volt Shelby throttle bike. Inspired by Carroll Shelby’s personal metallic blue 289 Slabside, Vintage Electric partnered with Carroll Shelby International to craft a two-wheel hot rod that celebrates the iconic race car that started it all, the Cobra.
“To channel Carroll Shelby’s spirit of design, you have to be in the presence of the phenomenal vehicles that he created. Walking around these celebrated Shelby cars, touching them, driving them, and seeing every last detail that Carroll poured into them is truly where our inspiration came from in making the new Shelby bike,” comments Vintage Electric Founder/Lead Designer Andrew Davidge. “When you walk up to a Cobra, this first thing you notice is the timeless aesthetic that has been celebrated for generations. The Cobra is an American icon, and we wanted to express that in our newest Vintage Electric Shelby bike.”
As part of the bike’s development process, Vintage Electric also met with Aaron Shelby, Carroll’s grandson and closely researched one of the racing legend’s very first personal 289 Slabside cars. Alongside driving the Cobra, Vintage Electric also took great care in incorporating the smallest details and classic finishes into the new bike’s overall design. The new Vintage Electric Shelby is outfitted in the exact matching blue metallic N6 paint scheme as Carroll’s own 289 Cobra with matte black racing stripes and iconic Shelby logo alongside distinctive Cobra badging.
To further express the classic Slabside aesthetic, Vintage Electric crafted the rugged handle grips and saddle seat to perfectly mirror the interior design of Carroll’s original blue 289. In fit and finish as well as color, tires, wheels, and brakes, every facet of the new bike echoes the legendary Cobra car it was modeled after. The black striping and metallic blue are tastefully accented with tones of silver throughout to make sure that the new Shelby bike immediately makes an impression out on the road.
Above all, the Cobra is known for its visceral, aggressive performance. Vintage Electric kept that in mind by integrating the most powerful battery pack the company has ever used for the new Shelby bike. The newest Vintage Electric throttle bike features a massive 48-volt battery along with a muscular 1,123-watt battery cell. The more powerful amerpage allows Vintage Electric Shelby bike riders quicker off the line speed and torquey performance on road. The large battery is housed in a stunningly crafted matte black cast-aluminum housing that briskly charges in a speedy 4.5 hours.
In another nod to classic Shelby race cars, the new high-performance Vintage Electric Shelby bike features a specially tuned ‘Race’ mode that is capable of speeds up to 36 mph on private-property/closed-courses. To unlock the full performance of the ‘Race’ mode, Vintage Electric Shelby riders must take out a specially designed speed key that is installed in every battery pack.
After a full charge, the Vintage Electric Shelby reliably offers up to a 75-mile range. The new bike features a high quality hydroformed aluminum frame made for striking the perfect balance out on the road with an MRP inverted-fork system. The front suspension supplies 60mm of front wheel travel. The Vintage Electric Shelby also integrates a stately LED headlamp and rear taillights that not only illuminate the open road for riders but recaptures the celebrated American spirit of race cars.
“As a company, Vintage Electric is really trying to blur the lines between an electric bicycle and electric motorcycle,” continues Vintage Electric Founder/Lead Designer Andrew Davidge. “For this new Shelby bike, our company is taking a platform that is relatively simple in theory, and we’re applying a very Shelby formula to every detail, which means we’re adding significant amounts of power and performance while giving this new Shelby bike an incredibly unique, one of a kind Cobra look.”
Pairing classic aesthetic with the best in modern technology, the Vintage Electric Shelby bike features groundbreaking EV technology. The sleek electronic interface on the handlebar is clear and intuitive, allowing riders of all levels easy, on-demand acceleration at the simple push of a button. Alternately, the thumb-throttle provides convenient access to five extremely smooth power modes. Speed ranges from a steady ramp to a powerful launch for riders looking to go full throttle. Another helpful feature on the Vintage Electric bike is the rear regenerative disc brake, which provides incredible stopping power while also recharging battery power.
For more information on the $7,249.00 Shelby bike or other Vintage Electric models, please visit www.vintageelectricbikes.com, or call (408) 969-0836.
THE EASYRIDERS LEGACY—
With all the talk about ER ‘s demise I came across an old Easyrider’s T and the remnants of another. The old skull logo, along with a signed pic of the Miraculous one. Enjoyed that rag from the early ‘70s.
Sold my collection years ago when money got a little tight. Ya gotta do what ya gotta do.
–Rhys H. Ralston
NEWS FROM INDIA–
It is the time for the biggest festival in India – Diwali – the festival of Light. I wish for you that the Divine Light brighten your present and future and cast away all shadows of the past.
Happy Diwali and wishing you a prosperous New Year.
– Ujjwal Dey
International Editor Supreme
Bikernet News Desk India
THE CALIFORNIA DISASTER–If I’m not mistaken Trump has alluded to this type
scenario on a few occasions when speaking about the necessity of the wall. Imagine a government capitulating to something completely disastrous to its citizens and economy. Hmmm, sort of like the current California government giving in to political correctness, becoming a complete sanctuary state and turning it over to the homeless and we’ve all seen the effects of that brilliant move in at least three of our major cities; San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego. I’m not sure how many of you have seen the newly proposed state flag so I’m including a picture of it.
https://medium.com/navigating-life/what-the fuck-just-happened-in-mexico-b98eff2b340c
–from Steve B.
Undercover agent
Pirelli is Confirmed as the Official Tire Supplier for all Classes of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship Until 2023–With the extension of the partnership with Dorna WSBK Organization for an additional three years, the relationship established in 2004 between Pirelli and the production-derived series will boast a unique 20-year collaboration in motorsport
In response to the evolution of supersport machines, and confirming Pirelli’s role as a leading tire manufacturer in the international racing scene, starting from 2020 all WorldSBK Championship classes will use DIABLO™ Superbike slick tires
In the WorldSBK category, the larger sizes become the new standard, as well as the rear 190/60 for WorldSSP, and the switch to slick tires will gradually involve the national championships in which Pirelli participates. The SCX option will enter the DIABLO™ Superbike range and become available on the market
Pirelli has been confirmed by Dorna WorldSBK Organization as the Official Tire Supplier for all classes of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship up to and including the 2023 season. In agreement with the promoter and organizer of the production-derived series and with the FIM, the International Motorcycling Federation, the Italian tire company has extended, as per contractual conditions, the current supply agreement, set to expire in 2020, for three additional seasons.
Pirelli, in agreement with Dorna WSBK Organization and the FIM, also announces that from 2020 all WorldSBK Championship classes will exclusively use DIABLO™ Superbike slick tires. This means, starting from next season, the WorldSSP and WorldSSP300 classes and the newborn Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup will also have the maximum technology and performance offered by the top product in the Pirelli range, replacing the DIABLO™ Supercorsa SC treaded tires used in those classes.
, Marc Saurina (Dorna), Giorgio Barbier (Pirelli).jpg)
Beginning in 2004, and initially designed to contain the overall costs of running the Championship, the technical partnership established by Pirelli with the Federation, promoter, teams and racers represented the first example of single tire formula in the history of top motor racing competitions. Now, after almost 20 years, it has proven to be a winning choice that has been followed by other two and four-wheel championships, offering all riders and teams the same opportunities to compete for victory, through a fair and identical tire supply for all.
Also, the choice of Pirelli, which has always been a leader of market trends and needs, to make the WorldSSP, WorldSSP300 and new Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup compete with slick tires, is the result of the brand’s strategy to respond to market changes and to the performance evolution of modern medium and small displacement supersport machines. Then the goal of Pirelli is to gradually involve the national championships in which it participates, offering the same product that will be used in the World Championships. The slick solutions are in fact not only able to guarantee better performance than treaded ones, thus allowing riders to exploit the full potential of their machines, but they have also become the new reference for all motorcyclists and amateur racers who love to use their own motorcycle on the track while participating in track days.
In the WorldSBK class, the rear tires will all be in the 200/65 rear and 125/70 front sizes which, as per the rules, the riders will be able to use a maximum amount of 11 front and 13 rear to cover the entire race weekend.
— Casey Huntley
VISION ZERO MEANS ZERO FREEDOMS—This was my response to a recent NMA article regarding Vision Zero efforts and Infrastructure. We are living in the best of times, yet the control freaks (Halloween) never relax.
Beyond the above statement, these vision Zero statements miss the point entirely. I defined it as infrastructure for a growing population. This includes not just fixing roads and bridges, but building additional roads, two-tiered roads, additional lanes for more cars and a growing population.
We should take a pro-active stance for making the population more comfortable while driving, having more fun and more able to travel. The other side seems anxious to attack, ban and regulate everything. They are missing the point.
–Bandit
LOWBROWS LATEST FILM–Fuel Cleveland 2019 Show Video
The 5th annual Fuel Cleveland took place at the end of July. We hadn’t made a show video since 2016 and we figured, as Fuel was at a new venue this year and the show has grown quite a bit since, it was overdue…
Scope out the Fuel Cleveland 2019 video or take a look at photos of the event. Leave us a comment on the video or reply to this email and let us know what you think. And plan on being in Cleveland in July 2020 for the next Fuel Cleveland!
The people are what really makes the show. Yes, the motorcycles are great, but so is the varied and eccentric crowd that makes its way to Cleveland from all over North America.
#lowbrowlife
The people below are using motorcycles in the proper fashion: excitement, adventure and passion. Get out of the house, out of your comfort zone, tag @lowbrowcustoms and hashtag #lowbrowcustoms, #lowbrowlife, #lowbroworder or #rideeverywhere for a chance to see your post highlighted here.
VINTAGE RIDES ROLLS THROUGH MONGOLIA–Mongolia on a Royal Enfield Himalayan,quite a story in itself…
That’s it! Mongolia’s 2019 summer season is over. We thought it would be an emotional one…
Let me tell you a story. We need to go back to the summer of 2018. Our fleet of Machismo in Mongolia (our old Royal Enfields) was beginning to crack up. They weren’t going to make another summer in the steppe….
It was a tough call for us. Vintage Rides was born with the Royal Enfield Classic 500. And at the time there was only this model in Chennai. But in 2018 the Himalayan was available. So began a heated debate at the office between supporters of the Classic 500 and those in favor of using the Himalayan on more off-road destinations. Conservatives versus progressives. When you wear the word Vintage, it’s legitimate to debate the question.
Part of the team had the opportunity to rub shoulders on the tracks of Kashmir and Ladakh with the new trail. Guillaume, Jean and Baptiste had been delighted by the capabilities of this small motorcycle, designed for the trip. It still aroused the curiosity of the locals, without being frightening because of its size. The old-fashioned trial will tell….
So, we decided to embark on this new adventure. The character of a motorcycle journey is, above all, a state of mind. We ordered motorcycles and sidecars from our friend Jean Burdet of Alternative Sidecar. We do offer sidecar trips in summer and winter – on a frozen lake – in Mongolia.
Very excited and waiting for our riders’ reactions on the first laps, we decided to capture it on video when the time came. We shared the idea with a group of friends, led by Fred, who have already gone to Rajasthan with us. They had just registered to travel this summer. A cheerful team of fellows, mostly from New Caledonia. They seemed just as impatient as we are.
The bikes arrive in Ulaanbaatar in the spring, just long enough for the running-in. The snow melts in the steppe. They are waiting for the first riders. Tuk will be our local guide for the season. A dependable guy.
The first groups finally arrive. As they discover the steppe and the capabilities of this new bike, the smiles are ear to ear on the faces of our Vintage Riders. The bike is easy and playful. It makes it possible to get to grips with off-road driving for those who are not great endurance riders. In other words, it is perfect for the large expanses of the steppe.
Thank you to Fred’s group for their patience and kindness.
Thanks to all the Vintage Riders of the Mongolian 2019 season. Your feedback has been valuable, and we have modified our trips to adapt them to the pace difference between the Classic 500 and the Himalayan.
Thank you to Tuk and our mechanics for helping you discover their beautiful country by motorcycle.
Thanks to Jules and Maryne from the blog Explore the World for the pictures and to Seb Sega for the editing.
Thanks to Royal Enfield and Mutuelle des Motards for their support.
Photo credits: Jules Bloseur & Maryne Amar
[page break]
5-BALL FATHER AND SON IN AUSTIN—My grandson, Frank Jr. flew out on a red-eye to tattoo with his dad Frank Ball at All Saints, on 6th in Austin, Texas. They were both wearing 5/8 Jak shirts from 5-Ball Leather. They better..
Atomic Bob is working on our new image as we prepare the puppy for its first runs.
We have a photoshoot scheduled for Monday with Markus Cuff, Frankie, Em and Maxine. Shortly afterwards we will bring you updated, lower prices, new products and hot photography. Hang on!
–Bandit
BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
WEEKEND ROUND-UP for October 30, 2019
https://www.bikernet.com/pages/WEEKEND_ROUNDUP_for_October_30_2019.aspx
Hey Bandit, I was born in Laconia, NH. At 68, I had enough of moving snow from the roof, the driveway and digging out my 18- wheeler.
I am now a couple miles from Daytona Beach. Hope I never have the pleasure of snow and freezing my ass off for several months every year.
Ride safe have a great day.
–AJ
Deland, FL
We will see. Maybe I’ll keep the headquarters. But I would like to do something in the Badlands for motorcycling. I have a couple of notions I’ll share with you very soon.–Bandit
SCARY DEAL FROM NASH MOTORCYCLES–Happy Halloween.
This is the holiday that allows us to celebrate all things black, a staple motorcycle color choice. In celebration, we’re giving you 33% off all things black in the store!
1/3RD OFF ALL THINGS BLACK…Use Code:
Colorourworldblackened
ALLIANCE FOR TOLL-FREE INTERSTATES UPDATE–Summer/Fall 2019
Despite all of the negative impacts of tolls, the growing use of tolling pilot programs, such as the Value Pricing Pilot Program (VPPP), and the federal bridge exemption illustrates that lawmakers throughout the country still view tolling as a viable option to raise funds for transportation needs. The Alliance for Toll-Free Interstates (ATFI) is committed to keeping existing interstates toll-free and open as they were intended.
At ATFI, we strive to educate the public, policymakers and the media about the negative ramifications that tolling existing interstates has on American communities and businesses and why it will not solve our transportation needs. Here are the states we have been monitoring and engaged in during 2019. We welcome your involvement to find substantial solutions for our country’s highway funding difficulties that don’t involve tolling existing interstates.
Alabama – A proposed toll bridge on Interstate 10 (I-10) across Mobile Bay and Mobile River estimated at $6 each way for vehicles has been getting a lot of attention lately. This would be one of the nation’s largest infrastrucutre projects at over 10 miles in length and suspended hundreds of feet in the air above the water near downtown Mobile. While the bridge is badly needed, transportation officials claim the state can’t afford this massive $2.1 billion project on its own. The hotly contested proposal has enormous public opposition and even state officials have failed to reach a consensus. Despite Governor Kay Iver’s outspoken support, Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth voiced his opposition, calling it a burden on the region’s working families. At the end of August, Governor Ivey declared this plan dead after the Eastern Shore Metropolitan Planning Organization voted to eliminate it from its short-term plan. However, many residents fear that this tolling project might show up again in the near future.
Connecticut – Connecticut is undergoing a heavy battle on funding its Special Transportation Fund. At the start of the 2019 Connecticut General Assembly Session, Governor Ned Lamont went back on his campaign promises to not toll cars in the state by proposing to establish electronic tolls across the state. There are claims that tolls could raise $800 million annually, and as much as 40% of revenues could come from out-of-state travelers. However, information from the governor’s office has not been consistent by constantly changing details about the number, location and rates of the tolls. Republican legislators have offered a counter-proposal, named Prioritize Progress, which would steer clear of tolls. Lamont intends to call a special session on tolls before the 2020 regular session, but it has not been scheduled at this time.
Florida – In the spring, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill from the Florida House creating three new toll roads in western and central Florida, including Orlando. No studies have been completed that address whether the toll roads are needed, and basic questions about the projects are set to be figured out at a later time. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will manage the projects and have final say over whether the roads become reality. At the end of July, FDOT set up a website for public comments on these three toll projects. To learn more, see here: www.FloridaMCores.com.
New York – New York became the first American city to impose congestion pricing to alleviate traffic and raise money for other transportation needs in the spring. Beginning in 2021, motorists will have to pay to enter the heart of Manhattan. The Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority, which is a piece of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, will decide how to implement congestion pricing after hearing to reflect on public comments and the findings of a traffic study.
South Carolina – Fortunately, South Carolina rejected tolls on existing interstates this year. At the request of the legislature, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) completed a study recently about turning Interstate 95 (I-95) into a toll road. The comprehensive study examined how much it would cost to build the tollbooths and how long it would take the state to complete the project. The 199-mile stretch of I-95 would be separated into four points where a toll would be charged to cross each of four bridges. SCDOT found it would take the state 35 years to produce the money to pay for the project and cost an estimated $3.5 billion.
Rhode Island – In December 2018, the state announced that it would begin construction on the next 10 truck-only toll gantries on I-95. Despite opposition from major trucking groups and a lawsuit from the American Trucking Associations (ATA), the first toll booths opened in June 2018. In March 2019, the lawsuit from the ATA challenging Rhode Island’s truck-only tolls was dismissed by a federal judge who said the case needs to be tried at the state level. In early April, ATA appealed a federal judge’s ruling to dismiss the group’s lawsuit. Moreover, state officials say drivers crossing Rhode Island’s Newport Pell Bridge have tallied up $9.6 million in unpaid tolls, fees, and fines throughout the last six years.
Virginia – During the 2019 Virginia General Assembly Session, legislators considered several bills to toll Interstate 81 (I-81). ATFI partnered with the Virginia Trucking Association, Virginia Manufacturers Association, Virginia Forest Products Association, and several other trade associations to oppose the toll proposals. After the legislation was defeated, the General Assembly adopted a series of sales and gas tax increases and higher fees to fund improvements to I-81. This was a huge victory and complete reversal from the Virginia Governor Ralph Northam’s original plan for tolls in January. His message was clear: Virginia rejects tolls on existing interstates.
Wisconsin – In July, Governor Tony Evers signed the two-year state budget while using his line-item veto power to eliminate of several provisions. Most notably was a $2.5 million Department of Transportation study on mileage based fees and tolling that he deleted. Governor Evers vetoed this provision, saying: “I am vetoing this section because I object to the financing of another study that will show, yet again, that the motor fuel tax is the most effective way to approximate a user fee of roadway use and the most cost-effective way to collect revenue. The Legislature has had more than enough evidence and enough time to study the issue. It is time for the Legislature to stop stalling and act to secure a long-term transportation funding solution.”
Federal – The United States Senate released the Investing in America’s Surface Transportation Infrastructure (IATA) Act, a comprehensive surface transportation reauthorization bill, which would expire in September 2020. The tolling highlights include a pilot program mentioned as the Congestion Relief Program. On September 11, the House Highways and Transit subcommittee held a hearing called “Pricing and Technology Strategies to Address Congestion on and Financing of America’s Roads.” Elected officials and six witnesses discussed whether tolling, congestion pricing or even a fuel tax is the best way to resolve congestion across the country. Darren D. Hawkins, CEO of YRC Worldwide Inc., spoke out against tolling existing interstates on behalf of the American Trucking Associations (ATA).
ATFI continues to be the voice of the anti-tolling movement at the national and state level. As these efforts move ahead, please join us in saying No to Tolls!
BAD COP FILE IS NOW OPEN–This $2 Test Identified Bird Shit as Cocaine. Cops Keep Using It to Arrest People.
Donut crumbs also once tested positive for meth.
Police across the country have used the same breed of shoddy $2 test to arrest people for cocaine that was really bird poop, meth that was actually crumbs from a glazed donut, and oxycodone that turned out to be vitamins.
In all of those cases, the possession or drug trafficking charges were eventually dropped after police sent the “drug” samples to a state lab that returned more-conclusive results. The original tests, known as presumptive field tests, have a history of being almost laughably wrong — if they weren’t putting people behind bars, even temporarily. And the follow-up lab tests that eventually clear people’s names can take weeks, if not months.
In the meantime, innocent people may be spooked into taking a plea deal instead of risking a longer sentence at trial. And if they can’t afford their bail, they’ll languish in jail as they decide whether to take a guilty plea or wait on better test results.
Cody Gregg, a homeless man in Oklahoma City, took the guilty plea in early October, supposedly because he wanted to get out of the city’s problem-plagued jail. Police charged him with possession after a field test incorrectly identified powdered milk inside a clear baggie as cocaine. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison and had been in jail for nearly two months before drug-lab results cleared him.
“You cannot indict somebody — put somebody in jail — over something you know has a very high rate of false positives,” Omar Bagasra, a biology professor at Claflin University and director of the South Carolina Center for Biotechnology. “It’s ignorance.”
–Vice.com
PENNSYLVANIA MAY MAKE HARLEY-DAVIDSON THE OFFICIAL MOTORCYCLE OF THE STATE–Just months after naming the Eastern Hellbender as the official state amphibian, some lawmakers are ready to add Harley-Davidson motorcycle to Pennsylvania’s collection of objects associated with the Keystone State.
The House State Government Committee on Tuesday approved legislation to name the Harley as the official state motorcycle. Getting the committee’s blessing is a first for this legislation that has been offered by state Rep. Bill Kortz, D-Allegheny County, in at least each of the last five legislative sessions. Joining Kortz is sponsoring the bill is Rep. Keith Gillespie, R-York County, whose district is home to Harley-Davidson’s Springettsbury plant.
In selling the idea to the committee, Kortz, a long-time Harley owner, said, “This is an iconic motorcycle. It’s made right here in Pennsylvania.”
He said the Harley plant employs about 1,000 workers and with announced closing of the company’s Kansas City, Mo., plant, that number will swell by 450 more.
“I truly believe this would help the business in Pennsylvania and help move this iconic motorcycle to another level,” Kortz said.
The only opposition to the measure came from Rep. Drew Lewis, R-Dauphin County, who said his reservation stems from naming a privately manufactured item as a state symbol. However, committee Chairman Garth Everett, R-Lycoming County, said the state aircraft (Piper J-3 Cub) falls into that category. Others pointed out the official state steam Iocomotive (K4s Steam) and electric locomotive (GG-1 4859) do as well.
Rep. Cris Dush, R-Jefferson County, said he fully supported naming the Harley as the official state motorcycle but joked that he wanted to amend the bill to require Harley to name the “hellbender” as one of its models.
Everett rejected that suggestion, replying, “Let’s not complicate things.”
–By Jan Murphy
From www.PennLive.com
NEW FROM WINDVEST–Replacement WindVest Windshields for H-D Sport Glide
2018-2020 Sport Glide windshields are available in 6″, 8″ and 10″
With our design the wind is redirected away from your face and over your head. Ride in comfort and style.
Your satisfaction is extremely important to us. We strive to offer quality items and service, so please take just a minute to let us know what we’re doing well. And if there’s anything you’d like to see done differently, don’t hesitate to tell us. Your feedback can only make us better!
WindVest Motorcycle Products | 408-762-7180 www.windvest.com sales@windvest.com
KIMI BY WEST COAST CHOPPERS BREAKS COVER IN TEXAS–Those who follow Formula 1 will know that Kimi Raikkonen is The Man of Few Words so when he speaks we tend to listen, thus when he offers his good name to a new fashion brand from the house of an iconic one, that’s a huge talking point because this is a rare occasion!
Kimi, a 2007 F1 World Champion, a veteran of over 300 grand prix starts, a 21-time winner of those, with 103 podiums to his name, has partnered with Jesse James of West Coast Choppers to launch the KIMI by West Coast Choppers range of merchandise.
The exciting new range broke cover during a press conference at West Coast Choppers headquarters in Austin on Tuesday, where Jesse and Kimi spoke about their plans and vision for the new range which combines Kimi’s love for choppers and motorcycle culture to his prowess as one of the best Formula 1 drivers of the past two decades.
James said of the venture: “The West Coast Chopper brand is based in Holland since early 2000s. I’ve been a big Formula 1 fan, and Rupert and Johan, who manage the brand in Europe, always wanted to get our foot in the door. I feel like a lot of the same fans who like West Coast Chopper stuff are into Formula 1
“We were talking about the idea (and I’m friends with pretty much the whole crew of the Mercedes team) and I asked them if they had a contact for Kimi because I [needed] someone to represent the brand and create a sub-brand under his name. I thought that would be a pretty good idea so that’s how we got hooked up.
“I’ve seen, obviously, Jesse on TV for many years, and I think it’s a great opportunity. I’m excited about it and hopefully, the people who buy it are excited also.”
According to West Coast Choppers, “The collection reflects the dedication, determination and hard work needed to get to the very top with a hat tipped to the blue-collar backgrounds of both Jesse and Kimi.
“The products are made of high-quality fabrics using the finest craftsmanship to deliver a unique product where the focus is on attention to detail. Exactly how Kimi and Jesse are as people.
“The wide launch collection carries t-shirts, headwear, jackets and sweatshirts for men, women and kids. Soon new products will be added including accessories, shorts and other products. The range will be dynamic and will evolve during the course of different seasons and developed on a need to basis to keep the look continuously current and original.”
On the day of the launch, the website www.kimibywestcoastchoppers.com went live offering the products to the public, with shipping worldwide on competitive rates.
Kimi is in Austin for this weekend’s United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas where he will line-up on the grid for Alfa Romeo to contest his 313th Formula 1 race. Last year he won at the venue as a Ferrari driver.
THE WARS ON CARS BUREAU–Cities Adopt Car-Free Zones To Push Drivers Out Of Cars.
Thanks to Green New Deal ideology, cities around the world are banning cars to force drivers to give them up: San Francisco, New York, Olso, Madrid, Chengdu, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Brussels and Mexico City, among others. ? TN Editor
In her 1961 book The Death and Life of Great American Cities, urbanist writer Jane Jacobs posed a prescient concern. She forecasted one of two possible outcomes for our urban future: “erosion of cities by automobiles, or attrition of automobiles by cities.”
To put it simply, Jacobs declared that if cars (and the highways and streets they run on) were left unchecked, the nature of the city would be gradually stripped away. She predicted that sprawl would make streets unwalkable, detaching neighborhoods and public spaces from one another. It sounded all doom and gloom, unless cities could impede that growth by limiting cars and reduce their influence on the streets.
The problem isn’t cars themselves, she argued, but the cumulative effect of an urban planning system that prioritizes cars over other modes of transportation. “The point of cities is multiplicity of choice,” Jacobs wrote. “It is impossible to take advantage of multiplicity of choice without being able to get around easily.”
Cities across the US and the world are experimenting with the “attrition of automobiles” by closing certain streets and areas to cars. San Francisco recently approved a $600-million plan to remove private vehicles from its busy Market Street, which will be renovated into space for street cars, buses, cyclists, and pedestrians. (Taxis will share the curbside lane with buses and commercial delivery vehicles, but Uber and Lyft cars are not allowed on the street.)
In October, New York City turned a one-mile stretch of 14th Street into a busway, banning all cars except some trucks and emergency vehicles. European cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Oslo have established car-free zones in downtown centers, and these initiatives can prompt backlash but are often strongly supported by residents.
Citizens enjoy having a variety of options to fulfill their transportation needs, and cities are realizing that. In the past, before vehicles like electric scooters or city bikes were widely available, people were limited to cars, buses, or the subway. With more diverse transit options, cities are forced to plan for improved safety and access, to build streets that accommodate all types of transportation. And that means scaling back on what they’ve built themselves around for decades: the car.
The idea of a car-reduced city isn’t entirely new; cities have looked to close streets to vehicular traffic and create pedestrian corridors for decades. But what is new is the surge in micro-mobility options afforded to people, which have pushed cities to reassess how to organize their streets. The impending threat of climate change has also added pressure on local officials to cut back on carbon emissions. (Transportation is one of the top producers of carbon emissions for the US.)
These small, often electric vehicles — shareable bicycles, scooters, and mopeds — have popped up on city streets in recent years. Dockless scooters appear in cities overnight seemingly without warning, from companies like Spin, Bird, Lime, and Skip; ride-sharing giants Uber and Lyft also invested in dockless bikes.
Their sudden arrival has caused confusion and even anger (mainly with the scooters) among residents and the local politicians tasked with regulating them. Some cities have required their swift removal, while others have more openly embraced scooters and started crafting laws for their usage. And whether scooters are actually environmentally sound is questionable.
But one thing is certain: Residents find these vehicles convenient, and they influence how people travel short distances — closing the gap left by cars, buses, and trains as a more direct means of transportation. Certain areas in cities, particularly low-income communities, are located far from transit hubs or lack direct bus or subway routes. Micro-mobility is a cheap, accessible option that could benefit communities previously overlooked by urban planners.
“Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of scooters will be that they will force a larger discussion of whom or what we prioritize when we design cities,” wrote Vox’s Umair Irfan.
That’s a philosophical approach some cities are taking, but it’s also being played out like a turf war, says Uwe Brandes, director of the Global Cities Initiative at Georgetown University: “How much territory in the public realm should be allocated to individual modes?”
–from Technocracy News
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INDIAN MOTORCYCLE PUSHES AMERICAN V-TWINS FORWARD WITH THE ALL-NEW 2020 CHALLENGER – THE ULTIMATE AMERICAN BAGGER
Featuring a Fixed Fairing, Inverted Front End, the Most Powerful Motor in Its Class and Intuitive Ride Technology, Indian Motorcycle’s State-of-the-Art Modern Bagger Redefines “Fully Loaded”
The bar for American motorcycles has officially been elevated. Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, has dramatically redefined the American bagger with its introduction of the 2020 Indian Challenger – a striking combination of American muscle, next-level technology, and premium comfort to deliver a truly unmatched riding experience.
Designed for the most knowledgeable and discerning riders, Indian designers stopped at nothing to ensure that the Challenger out-classed its competition and delivered the highest performing, fully loaded bagger on the market.
“The Indian Challenger delivers a new level of performance for riders who understand that the seemingly small details make a huge difference,” said Reid Wilson, Vice President of Indian Motorcycle. “Our mindset was to leave no stone unturned and deliver a bagger that exceeds the standards in categories like power, handling, comfort, and technology.”
It starts with the all-new Indian PowerPlus engine, Indian’s first liquid-cooled large displacement motor (108 cubic-inch, 60-degree V-twin) that packs a best-in-class 122 horsepower and 128 ft-lbs. of torque. The new powertrain also features a six-speed transmission with true overdrive, assist clutch to reduce clutch effort, and hydraulic valve lash adjusters and camshaft chain tensioners for a low maintenance, reliable powerplant.
The PowerPlus’ overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder deliver incredible V-twin performance and power. Riders can customize the bike’s throttle mapping by selecting one of three ride modes, including Rain, Standard and Sport – resulting in one motorcycle with three distinct performance personalities. Each ride mode has been engineered with its own distinct traction control setting to align with each mode’s specific throttle mapping.
Starting at $21,999, the Challenger features all the premium touring amenities riders expect from Indian Motorcycle, including electronic cruise control, full LED lighting, a long-haul seat, ABS, keyless ignition, and weatherproof saddlebags with over 18 gallons of storage space. In addition, a modern and aggressively styled chassis-mounted fairing sits over the Challenger’s inverted front suspension. This, combined with the bike’s lightweight cast aluminum frame and hydraulically adjustable FOX® rear shock, delivers unrivaled handling and rock-solid stability.
Pricing for the 2020 Indian Challenger, available in Titanium Metallic paint, starts at $21,999, while the Challenger Dark Horse, starting at $27,499, is available in Thunder Black Smoke, Sandstone Smoke, and White Smoke. The Indian Challenger Limited starts at $27,999, and is available in Thunder Black Pearl, Deepwater Metallic, and Ruby Metallic.
MORE FROM THE EASYRIDERS FRONT–Just sent my order via website for the new Easyriders, had to use the refund or loose it in a few days.
I WILL LET YOU KNOW HOW IT GOES. A SIDE NOTE, IT TOOK SOME SEARCHING TO FIND MY REFUND CODE.
RIDE SAFE.
–AJ
HISTORIC TIP OF THE WEEK— Ray Weishaar Hung on to his Helmet Four Laps With his Teeth
(Chicago Speedway, September 12, 1915) “In the 13th lap, however, his helmet became unfastened, Weishaar hung on to the strings with his teeth for four laps and then threw the helmet into the pits.
Chairman John L. Donovan of the F.A.M. copetition [sic] committee and Referee Frank E. Yates saw the helmet go into the pits and insisted on knowing to whom it beloged [sic]. There was considerable dispute for several laps as a result of their determination to make Weishaar stop and put on his helmet again.
As Weishaar came around each lap in the lead, those of us who where [sic] in the pits did out best to argue the officials out of their idea of forcing Weishaar to make an extra stop but they were determined in their course and as a result we had to call Weishaar into the pits in the 27th lap. This undoubtedly cost Weishaar the race.” (The Harley-Davidson Dealer September 1915)
Weishaar was made a part of the Harley-Davidson factory team in 1916. That year he came in third place at Dodge City, and he won the FAM 100-Mile Championship in Detroit. He became a dealer of Harley-Davidson motorcycles for three years after being given a dealership, but he returned to racing in 1919.
His greatest victory was in Indiana, in the Marion Cornfield Classic Road Race, which took place in 1920. He won the race, as well as beating the standing race record by 18 minutes.
The Harley-Davidson team’s mascot was a small pig, which they would take around the track with them on victory laps. Weishaar was particularly fond of it, and many photographs exist of him and the pig. It is because of this mascot that Harley-Davidson motorcycles are called “hogs.”
Weishaar had a reputation as a cautious rider who often succumbed to the forces of bad luck. Many times, he would be leading national events only to be forced to drop out to equipment malfunction. In 1923 he moved to Los Angeles after signing a contract to race at the newly built Legion Ascot Speedway Speedway.
It was with such a talented team, highly capable machines, and the deep coffers of a successful, well established brand that Harley-Davidson had become one of the top three competitive manufacturers by 1917. However, the American war effort halted the momentum of the Milwaukee crew as well as the other factory teams as all professional racing in the country was suspended for 1917 and 1918. Supplies were heavily rationed and production shifted towards war machines which marked the end of the line for many of America’s smaller motorcycle manufacturers. The vast majority of America’s professional racers too halted their own career for the war, trading in their colorful wool racing jerseys in for the olive drab tunics of the U.S. Army.
By the end of the 1919 season Harley-Davidson’s racing guru, Bill Ottaway had cherrypicked some of the best and brightest racers for his new powerhouse factory team, a group that would become known as the Wrecking Crew.
I’m working on a racing motorcycle screenplay based in 1919 after WWI. I running through the draft one more time and digging through history. It’s a blast.–Bandit
CHANGE IN LINEUP FOR THE CORAL HEAD MUSICFEST, PINELLAS PARK FL–JACKYL JOINS THE LINEUP NOVEMBER 2, 2019
Due to circumstances beyond the artist’s control Vince Neil was forced to cancel his current tour. However, JACKYL has stepped up and filled the open slot.
THE NEW LINEUP/SCHEDULE FOLLOWS:
12:00 Jen
1:30 HairDaze
3:00 MPG (Mitch Perry Group)
5:00 Slaughter
7:00 Jackyl
9:00 Sebastian Bach
We are thrilled to have JACKYL performing with us again. They worked with us in Marathon Fl and the performance was incredible!
We expect nothing less from them this time around. We look forward to seeing you at the show.
Get your tickets today for only $34 at www.coralheadmusicfest.com
GET TICKETS
American Legion Riders Post 154 | 4115 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050
Sent by legionriders154@gmail.com
LIFESTYLE DEAL OF THE WEEK–2006 Harley-Davidson FLSTN – Softail Deluxe for $10,995.00
See it here: https://www.lifestylecycles.com/default.asp?page=xPreOwnedInventoryDetail&id=7940558
**JUST 21,371 MILES**
When the Softail Deluxe hit the showrooms, riders big and small couldn’t wait to take this plush ride to the road. How could we blame them? Whitewall to whitewall, every detail is sheer beauty.
Softail Deluxe combines easy-riding comfort with a heavy dose of nostalgia to create an eye-catching custom that’s a joy to ride. It hugs the road on lowered suspension. The 24.5-inch seat height make the Softail Deluxe comfortable for a wide range of riders. It’s also the lowest Softail in the line.
ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT:
Loads of chrome on this Softail!!! Glacier White Pearl / Vivid Black paint with raised tank logos is absolutely gorgeous. Chrome beach bars with steel braided lines, chrome switch housings, slotted levers, speedo with chrome hood, custom teardrop mirrors and Performance Machine chrome / rubber grips.
Chrome console with black face and leather strap with chrome badge. Chrome nacelle headlamp, passing lamps, blinkers all with thick visors. All chrome forks, axle caps, fender trim and beautiful chrome spiral spoked rims. C chrome 2:2 shotgun exhaust.
All chrome engine covers including shift link covers and H-D arm, regulator, oil bag, side mount tool box, oval 88 air, swing arms, rotors, large rear axle covers, fender supports, drive sprocket, chain guard, and more.
Solo seat with chrome passenger handle, pillion and luggage rack. Chrome / rubber floors and all controls matching grips. Tombstone taillight and chrome blinkers with visors. Beautiful softail with tires ready to eat some miles!!!
EZ FINAN
EXCLUSIVE FROM THE RODDERS JOURNAL— 2020 TRJ “Hall of Fame” Calendar–$19.95 – $29.95
In the past quarter-century, we’ve featured quite the mix of milestone cars. From the McMullen roadster and the Hirohata Merc to “Ohio George’s” Willys, we’ve always gravitated towards the machines that made a difference. For our Hall of Fame calendar, we’re zeroing in on 15 of the fastest, coolest and most influential hot rods, customs and racecars ever to grace the pages of TRJ.
In signature Rodder’s Journal style, the calendars measure 15×23-inches, are printed on heavy stock and list popular car show dates. As an added bonus, each and every one will be signed by the publisher, Steve Coonan. You will receive your calendars by the Holiday Season.
CRAZY TIMES—Looks like my offer on a house in Deadwood found a dead end. Maybe it’s not meant to be. Then again, you never know.
Regarding The torpedo. I welded the helmet canopy in place and painted it. I drilled the holes for the fire suppression lines to the engine compartment. I started to install the firewall permanently with gobs of fire puddy. I finished the left side and started to move to the right. Our firewall is like a puzzle of about seven aluminum pieces made to link to the steel sheet metal welded in the center.
Okay, about the time you think something is all wrong, shit starts happening for the good. I spoke to a brother who is active in the CBD community. He put together a formula to help with inflammation. Two of the major aging factors can be slowed down with anti-inflammation efforts and meditation. Amazing. I’m going to test it for him.
Suddenly, my 1946 Indian Chief is hot property. We’ll see. And my VA effort seems to be moving forward.
Let’s see what this weekend brings, breaks, builds, fixes or enlightens. It’s never dull around the Bikernet, 5-Ball, Bandit’s Cantina headquarters.
Ride fast and free forever,
–Bandit
