Hey,
This week has been beyond interesting. All the bottom line goals were almost realized.
I talked about Not Giving Up, and you can’t. This week held examples. I believe Phil, from Phil’s Speed Shop in Orange County inspired me to find the solution to a 4-year challenge. My Crazy Horse, now V-Plus 100-inch engine sputters.
I’ve just switched out the ignition, coil, and Battery for Twin Power jobs from Biker’s choice. It starts and purr, but at about 30 mph it goes to hell. We switched out the breather gear, checked fuel delivery, tested air intake and then called Phil. He confirmed that someone could have pressed off the gear and located it in the wrong position.
We will check it out next week. Hang on for the ignition installation this weekend.
Let’s hit the news. The vast and unrelenting Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by Cycle Source Magazine, Iron Trader, Motorcycle Riders Foundation, and Las Vegas Bike Fest.
MRF REPORTS, OUTSTANDING, PERFECT TIMING as we enter the Federal Fray–Today the motorcyclists of Maryland, specifically ABATE & THE MARYLAND
COC made history when Governor Larry Hogan signed the nation’s second motorcycle Anti-Profiling bill into law.
The bill which passed both houses unanimously will go into effect on October 1st.
We hope that more states will follow our lead and that the MROs & Clubs can come together and work to get more positive legislation passed all across the country up to and including the new Federal Anti-Profiling bill.
— Lenny Holcomb
JIMS TOOL OF THE WEEK–
JIMS No 97225-55 Big Twin Sprocket Shaft Bearing Installation Tool and No. 973 Adapter for Late “Fine Spline” Sprocket Shafts.
To install the Timken bearing or inner bearing race on flywheels that use a roller bearing, JIMS offers No. 97225-55 Sprocket Shaft Bearing Installation Tool.
This tool will install the flywheel assembly into the left case on Timken equipped models from 1955-2002 and later models that have been converted to use Timken bearings.
JIMS No. 973 adapter allows tool No. 97225-55 to be used on late “fine spline” sprocket shafts found on 2006-present Dyna models and all 2007-present Big Twins.
The MSRP for No. 97225-55 is $197.45 and for No. 973 is $86.10.
Both tools are proudly made in the USA and feature JIMS lifetime tool warranty. No. 97225-55 is for use on 1955-2006 Big Twins except Dyna, and when No. 973 is added, the tool works on all Big Twins from 1955 to present.
QUICK, OPEN THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY–
An Engineer dies and goes to Hell. Dissatisfied with the level of comfort, he starts designing and building improvements. After a while, Hell has air conditioning, flush toilets and escalators. The engineer is a pretty popular guy. One day God calls and asks Satan, “So, how’s it going down there?”
Satan says, “Hey things are going great. We’ve got air conditioning and flush toilets and escalators, and there’s no telling what this engineer is going to come up with next.”
God is horrified. “What? You’ve got an engineer? That’s a mistake- he should never have gone down there! You know all engineers go to Heaven. Send him up here!”
” Satan says, “No way. I like having an engineer on the staff. I’m
keeping him.”
God says, “Send him back up here or I’ll sue. “Yeah, right,” Satan laughs, “and where are you going to get a lawyer?”
–from Jerry and Rogue
HARLEY-DAVIDSON ASKS “WHY BICYCLE SHARE WHEN YOU CAN MOTORCYCLE OWN?”–
Riders Can Own a New Roadster Motorcycle for $7 a Day
For less than seven bucks a day*, Americans can own a new Dark Custom Harley-Davidson Roadster motorcycle. To bring $7-a-day to life, Harley-Davidson created its first-ever free motorcycle-share pop up so everyone (at least through Friday) can test ride a new motorcycle and feel the difference of the nimble Roadster’s air-cooled 1200cc V-Twin engine in urban environments.
“We borrowed the popular bicycle share concept for a few days to showcase how folks can afford to own this new racing-inspired motorcycle,” said Dino Bernacchi, Harley-Davidson U.S. Marketing Director. “This will give riders an opportunity to experience an all-new and more exhilarating way to get around the city. A trip across town on two-wheels will never be the same.”
Temporary Harley-Davidson motorcycle-sharing stations featuring the Roadster will pop-up in select U.S. cities, including Portland, Los Angeles and Harley-Davidson’s hometown of Milwaukee, just as the new motorcycle hits local dealerships.
“This whole effort is designed to show just how attainable a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle can be. So, if folks can’t make it down to one of our pop-ups, they can head to a local Harley-Davidson dealer and see for themselves how owning a new Roadster or one of eight other new Harley-Davidson motorcycles can cost less than $7 a day,” Bernacchi added. “It’s easier now than ever to own a Harley-Davidson with the new Roadster, or look into the Street 500 starting at $99 a month**.”
Harley-Davidson motorcycle-share location and hours:
Milwaukee: May 18-20, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• The Harley-Davidson Museum
• Third Ward District – Broadway between Chicago and Menomonee
Portland: May 18, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• PDX Speedshop, 1313 NW Kearney Street, Portland OR
Los Angeles: May 18, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Glendale Harley-Davidson, 3717 San Fernando Road, Glendale CA
Fueled by 60 Years of Heritage, Roadster Leads the Pack
Ideal for city streets, the latest Dark Custom model provides modern performance with a combination of new wheels and tires mated to premium suspension components and an air-cooled 1200cc V-Twin engine that delivers a strong pulse of mid-range torque so riders can turn it loose at the green light.
The new Roadster model joins the Dark Custom lineup with a minimalist, fastback design inspired by classic models and current trends in garage-built custom bikes. At home in urban environments and on twisting roads, Roadster makes a bold visual statement and features a minimalist retro design with a profile reminiscent of vintage racing motorcycles from the 1950s and 1960s. The Roadster is featured in Harley-Davidson’s current Live Your Legend marketing campaign: https://youtu.be/9MdVZ6poN7E.
“Since its introduction in 1957, the Harley-Davidson Sportster has proved capable of constant reinvention, and the Roadster writes a new chapter in that story,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Director of Styling. “We’ve watched our customers take the Sportster in so many different directions. The Roadster is a mash-up of styling genres, but the intent was to build a rider’s motorcycle, a Sportster that boasts premium suspension components and a balanced, athletic stance that connects the rider to the road.”
To test ride a Roadster or any of the 2016 motorcycles, visit a Harley-Davidson authorized dealership or schedule a test ride online at H-D.com.
*Riders must have a valid motorcycle license and proper riding gear in order to participate in the motorcycle-share program.
–JEN HOYER
Harley-Davidson
I agree. Sportsters are an Icon in the Harley mix. There’s new young blood flowing into the motorcycle industry. It’s up to us to make the adventure exciting. –Bandit
MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION HOLDS SUCCESSFUL WASHINGTON, DC ADVOCACY DAY– WASHINGTON, DC – Last week over 100 members of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) made the trip to Washington, DC to connect with elected officials from across the country in support of motorcyclists’ rights. Twenty-four states were represented this year and more than 300 meetings with members of Congress and their staff took place over the course of May 10th, 11th, and 12th.
Members of the MRF brought their bikes, as well as their personal stories from back home, to Capitol Hill and discussed issues critical to the 2016 MRF’s legislative agenda. Among these included opposing the REFUEL Act; supporting the Motorsports Act, as well as recommendations of the charter for the newly re-established Motorcycle Advisory Council. In addition, legislators heard about updating the definition of a motorcycle, as well as concerns over the profiling of motorcyclists.
Every meeting attended by MRF members marked another critical step forward in building and maintaining relationships with congressional offices. Each meeting provided the opportunity to communicate directly with a wide array of lawmakers who are currently considering legislation that would affect the rights of motorcyclists.
The MRF staff in Washington, DC will begin the process of follow-up with many of the offices that were targeted. However, it is imperative that local groups and clubs continue to advocate in your home states to ensure that progress continues. As constituents, the visits in the home district are extremely impactful. The talking points used on Capitol Hill can be found on the MRF website.
A genuine thank you goes out to everyone who participated in this year’s Bikers Inside the Beltway event!
BUCKLE GUY NOW STOCKS ½-INCH KEY RINGS– We have added a third key ring size, ½-inch, to go along with our existing 7/8-inch and 26mm (roughly 1-inch). We are stocking six finishes, which includes our new gun metal and black matte finishes.
Thanks Everyone!
WORTH WATCHING THIS ~ HEADS UP, THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT!
New Gas Coming To Stations. Looks like they are starting to really push this stuff now so be careful what you pump. Pumps have to be clearly marked so don’t use it.
The cost will be slightly cheaper than the other options so it might look tempting. Most stations don’t have it yet but be aware just in case. The EPA has changed the rules on corn used to make gasoline. Important if you have a car made before 2012. Do watch the short video. Don’t use NEW GAS COMING TO STATIONS (everybody PLEASE READ and send this along to everyone you know).
5-BALL RACING REPORTS– Lee Chaffin sent the rebuilt Mikuni Carb back for the Bonne Belle.
We are scrambling to find two sets of WR cylinders, one for the Bonne Belle and one for Dale Walksler, and the Wheels through Time Museum.
–Bandit
THE BIKERNET GUN NUT REPORT–
The hypocrisy of the anti-gun movement – and its cheerleaders in the press – is so obvious and consistent that it rarely bears special mention.
They claim to support the Second Amendment, but they want to ban guns. They claim to embrace gun safety, but they’re too ignorant and afraid of guns to understand their common use and would rather criticize NRA for training people to safely use and own firearms.
They express outrage at violence in America’s cities, but they don’t want law-abiding urbanites to have the means to protect themselves. They claim to stand with victims of violence, but they denounce attempts to empower the vulnerable as “shaming.” They don’t want you to have a gun, but they want better, braver people than themselves to use guns to protect them.
WHEELS THROUGH TIME 2016 AUCTION CLASSIC—WIN THIS BIKE!!
It with great pride honor and excitement Wheels Through Time presents the 2016 RAFFLE BIKE and PRIZES
Every year our famous fundraiser has blessed a lucky winner with the Grand prize.
Each year the winner has claimed the big prize or 20 thousand dollar cash prize.
New offering for 2016
Grand prize–1946 Harley Davidson Knucklehead
Second prize–10,000 cash
Third prize– 5,000 cash
The 2016 Knucklehead was hand built by museum founder/restoration expert Dale Walksler in the WTTM restoration shop. Over 250 hours and countless dollars were spent on this timeless restoration. Dale hit his stash of hard to find knucklehead parts time and time again installing the final touches moments before the 2015 raffle bike was given away on November 14 ,2015.
The result———– “I know for sure this is best bike we have offered sine we started our raffle way back in 2003. It runs like a new one and is equipped with the best parts and pieces that I could find.
Special thanks to John Dills of Dill Paint works for the perfect color and finish also would like to thank my pal Wayne at Heathers Leathers for the gorgeous hand tooled seat and bags. Vintage parts guru Jeff Coffman at Jeff’s American Classics in Dundee Oregon supplies the rare original 1946 speedometer, spotlights and miscellaneous accessories. I am thankful to have friends in the industry to collaborate with”-Dale Walksler
The special 1946 engine was rebuilt by Dale in the restoration shop at WTT.
The 4 speed transmission was reworked by Ralph Camp at Ralph’s Racing and shifts like new. The overall package is stunning and there are more surprises coming on this “American Restoration.”
Ticket specials are 1 ticket for $10 and 3 tickets for $20, and our best package gets you 7 tickets for $50, with a Free Short-sleeve WTT T-shirt and DVD. You may also substitute a Time Machine Video Subscription in place of the DVD, just note on your order form.
So get in on the 2016 WTT Raffle Today! Not only will you have a chance to win a piece of motorcycle history, but you’ll be supporting the great cause of keeping America”s transportation heritage on two wheels for generations to come! All ticket purchases go directly to helping Wheels Through Time preserve motorcycle history for future generations to enjoy.
Remember, Wheels Through Time is a 501c3 Not-For-Profit institution, so all contributions to this years raffle help keep us “The Museum That Runs”!!!
*Non-US residents are eligible to enter the raffle. You do not have to be present to win.*
BANDIT’S 50TH HIGH SCHOOL RENUION. They asked for a short Bio. Here goes: Vietnam 3 times, outlaw club, Nat. Director grass roots motorcycle lobbying effort, 2001 around the World in 4.5 months, wrote six books, four World Land Speed Records, Easyriders Magazine Editor, Executive VP 35-million publishing co., owned three magazines including part of Sailing Magazine. Rode Indian Cross Country. One movie, several TV shows.
Sailed 7 seas. Live in small 3rd World Country between Long Beach and San Pedro. Own MC web site, apparel line, racing team, and was inducted into Sturgis Motorcycle HOF. Second in class 2005 La Carrera Pan Americana Vintage road race in a 1952 stinkin’ Lincoln. Married five times. Working on a motorcycle screen play. Not done yet.
–Bandit
BRITISH BIKER BUILDING MONSTER ENGINES– I’m making my own XR style top ends for the Evo big twin engines. They will also fit twin cams and Sportsters. Twin cams can use stock cases, XLs and EV80s need after market cases with a 6-inch deck due to the cylinder sizes.
These come in 4 and 4 ¼-inch bores and feature a 6 ½-inch gasket pad, same as the heads and the cylinders are spigoted like a Shovel only much bigger.
The cylinders are long enough to use a 8 ¼-inch rod with a 5-inch stroke, if needed and are shortened to suite any other stock piston deck or rod combination you like. Heads will be set up with either 2- 2.1 or 2.250-inch intakes with carb sizes from 46mm to 53mm flat slide lectrons.
Exhausts are 1.7 to 1.8-inch running 2-inch headers or 2 1/8 depending on engine size and exhaust flow needed. Flow figures are good swirl velocity is exceptional. I like high velocity, it gives good cylinder fill and torque curves.
Evo rocker boxes will fit my heads but I’m making Shovel-style boxes, which will be doweled to the heads, unlike the stock boxes and all other aftermarket boxes which are bolted only, this is not good.
My boxes also feature a large metal one-way reed valve which allows the engine to breath through both boxes and out to the air. This way I can totally remove the rotary breather and the engine will then breath on demand not timed.
There is another trick I’m doing in the boxes which has never been done before. I will let you know that one when I have done it. I have more plans yet to improve the Evo engine but I need to finish the top end and dyno it and do the road miles, etc., before I move on any further. Anyway, there’s a bit for you to think about.
–Jimmy Doom
jimmy.doom@aol.co.uk
VERY OLD ORIENT SINGLE COMING TO THE CANTINA— You won’t see this bike parked in front of the Redhead’s Saloon on Saturday night, but you will find it in Bandit’s Cantina shortly.
—Wrench
POP’S GARAGE FABRICATION– Restoration, upgrades and all around bad ass builds.
Nick is a good kid. His dad Gordy, is one of my favorite people, and the lad can ride! We’ve been to Sturgis numerous times.
These boys are hooking yours truly UP!…..I was stunned, totally unexpected. Blew me away…..I truly just enjoy their company.
I’m looking into the Ultima motor rebuild program for my 113-inch El Bruto. The thing still runs like a beast, but it’s due….somewhere between 60-80K on it. I’ll be handling this part of the build.
When Nick is done I want it to be finished, finite-o, DONE,…. Ride for long time sailor boy…..wink wink, giggle giggle.
I’m being told fresh powder-coated frame. Some new pipes, 2-into-1. The front end is a ZX14 I believe…..I’m wondering where the trail will land, but I’m confident Nick has that down. That spoked tubless front wheel is frikkin SWEET!…..Nick mentioned going back to the stock FXR rear fender, which I kinda like….new shocks too!
Nick has done some really nice work on FXR’s, as you can see…..beautiful stuff. Nick owned and rode an FXR some time ago. Its good to see him back on what I consider the best bike the HD factory ever made….with the help of Mr. Eriki Buell of course.
Gordy (Nicks dad and all around great guy / avid rider), has come into the FXR fold I’m glad to say…….hopefully I had some influence in that. Kirk Taylor did also.
Anyhow sir, I’ll keep you posted. I’ve hit Nick for some pics. It’ll be nice to document this. I appreciate your help, and the boys at Pops Garage of course!
–Charles Young
LA SHOP OF THE WEEK HAZAN MOTOR WORKS— Another artist builder with the touch. “Motorcycle are an artistic medium,” Max Hazan said. “I approach the process as if it were a painting or sculpture, each part is the same as a brushstroke.”
He doesn’t build choppers, bobbers or café bikes. “I love beautiful creations regardless of category.” He likes to let the shape of the engine dictate the what to build around it.
“The piece should reflect your willingness to build whatever you can imagine.”
He currently sold all of his latest creations and is working on some projects for August. We can’t wait.
Motor Crew Neck: White
$ 19.99
Hazan Motorworks, motor painting crew-neck tee in white
Slim / Standard Fit
4.5 oz., pre-shrunk 100% combed ringspun cotton, 30 singles
Shoulder-to-shoulder taping
Double-needle stitched sleeves and bottom hem
Watch for more on local shops in the next couple of weeks.
–Bandit
Bennett’s Performance Evo Engine Rebuild
Great article. I have almost completed my tear down. Would like recommendation of shop near me to rebuild lower end on my 1990 FXRS. Also looking for someone to rebuild heads. Would like to then do reassembly myself.
Thanks for your help!
–Mark Reynaud
Mreynaud@suddenlink.net
Reno, NV
Hey Mark,
You have options. You might ask the guys at Paughco for a shop recommendation for the lower end. You have Baisley’s in Oregon, or you can swap out your heads with Branch. They do a masterful job and you can have a fresh set of heads in a week.
–Bandit
BLM OPENS SALT FLATS SUMMIT– after initially saying it was invite-only
Although visitors to the I-80 rest stop learn about the salt flats’ racing history and get a chance to walk out onto the flats, racing and speed enthusiasts wonder whether speed records will continue to be tested and set on the flat. Poor salt conditions at the Bonneville Salt Flats have led to the cancellation of many recent land-speed racing events. Many factors contribute to lack of salt on the flats, including weather conditions; racers say that mineral extraction also diverts salt and water.
Federal agency said it had planned to ban media to make invited stakeholders comfortable.
The Bureau of Land Management will discuss the management and preservation of the Bonneville Salt Flats on Tuesday during an all-day summit, but some may have been told that the meeting was closed to those without an official invitation.
Lisa Reid, a spokeswoman with the BLM, told The Tribune that she’d been instructed to tell members of the media that the meeting, to be held at the Natural History Museum of Utah, was closed to the public. Reporters would have to wait outside the room, and meeting attendees would not be allowed to record video or audio.
The policy was changed Monday, Reid said, adding that there is nothing unusual about the meeting or the restrictions initially applied to it.
“It is not a secret meeting,” she said. “We have meetings all the time that the media is not invited to.”
Closing such a meeting would be unusual, said Jeff Hunt, a Salt Lake City media and First Amendment attorney. It isn’t illegal, he said — the state’s open meetings laws don’t apply to federal agencies — but did seem like a bad policy.
“I’ve never heard of restrictions like these when you have a meeting of this sort, where you have matters of public interest and concern,” he said. “It seems counter-productive to impose these sorts of restrictions.”
The status of who could attend Tuesday’s meeting all came down to a “miscommunication,” said Kevin Oliver, manager of the BLM’s West Desert District. The meeting was never officially closed, he said, but it was purposely never advertised — the intent was to have an open dialog between stakeholders, not hold a media event.
Reid said the BLM had decided to block media access and ban recording to make invited stakeholders more comfortable. The BLM believes, Oliver added, that people become more reticent when they know they are being recorded or when media is present.
Groups invited to participate in the meeting include Intrepid Potash, the University of Utah, the governor’s office, county commissioners and the mayors of Wendover and West Wendover.
The summit is set to begin at 8:30 a.m. at the Natural History Museum of Utah, with introductions and expectation-setting for the meeting. Afternoon sessions will include scientific presentations.
The BLM’s goal for the meeting is that stakeholders — environmentalists, the BLM itself, the racing community and industry that operates near the salt flats — will agree on a way to move forward to protect the salt flats.
Dennis Sullivan, chairman for the Utah Alliance to Save the Salt, said his organization wanted to film the meeting, but the request was denied.
“Utah Alliance would like to have the media there because we don’t trust the BLM and would like to have their word in print or video,” he said in an email.
The Bonneville Salt Flats is widely regarded as one of the few surfaces on Earth that is large enough, and flat enough, for land vehicles to reach speeds of 300, 400 or even 500 miles per hour. Concern about the evident decline of the flats reached new heights last summer, when several high-profile racing events, including Speed Week, were canceled for the second straight year due to poor salt conditions.
Motorsports enthusiasts have criticized the BLM’s management of the area, saying the federal agency failed to protect the fragile salt crust despite recognizing the salt flats as an area of “critical environmental concern.”
Utah lawmakers have also adopted a resolution calling on the BLM to do more to restore the Bonneville Salt Flats.
While the BLM acknowledged last summer that the salt crust was extremely thin or absent entirely from some areas of the salt flats, the agency’s scientists have struggled to explain the crust’s change and variability. The BLM has tapped the U. to study the salt flats, hoping to understand whether the crust’s decline is the result of human activity or some complex but entirely natural cycle, as others have suggested.
–By EMMA PENROD
The Salt Lake Tribune
[page break]
STRANGE FACTS FROM THE BASEMENT– Glass takes one million years to decompose, which means it never wears out and can be recycled an infinite amount of times!
· Gold is the only metal that doesn’t rust, even if it’s buried in the ground for thousands of years.
· Your tongue is the only muscle in your body that is attached at only one end.
· If you stop getting thirsty, you need to drink more water. When a human body is dehydrated, its thirst mechanism shuts off.
· Zero is the only number that cannot be represented by Roman numerals.
· Kites were used in the American Civil War to deliver letters and newspapers.
Hang on for more bullshit in Bandit’s Cantina. –Renegade
REALLY, THE LAST CHANCE IS TODAY!
This the very last time you will be able to get DISCOUNT TICKETS. They’re available till tomorrow morning, May 18th.
Secure your tickets and camping passes —– Click here to getr’ done.
Good Times – SO 17
WHATEVER’S ON THE LINE
Who Knows What You Will Miss if you Miss SO17. So don’t blow it. Get your discount tickets now so you won’t miss:
Kick A$$ Music
Chop-Off
Drag Racing
Mini Bike Racing
Drift Triking Falderal
Painted Lady Contest
Bike Show
Stunt Show
Click here for your camping tickets and passes.
LEGENDARY RENEGADE WILLIE NELSON– Kicks Off 2016 Sturgis Buffalo Chip Festival.
So many of music’s greatest legends have come and gone. In the world of country music, renegades who played by their own rules like Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings and Merle Haggard have all left a wave of musical memories in their wake.
But one performer who dared to be different and led the movement is still entertaining and will be creating more magical memories at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip this August. The great Willie Nelson will be giving Buffalo Chip guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as he jumpstarts the Chip’s 35th anniversary party.
The living legend will kick-off the party on Friday, Aug. 5 with Drake White. A short video honoring the spirit of rebellion and announcing the performance can be found here: http://bit.ly/S2oE2l
Nelson’s nearly endless portfolio of beloved music has been a soundtrack of his life as well as America’s. Songs like “Hello Walls,” “Crazy,” “Willingly,” “Bloody Mary Morning,” “Blues Eyes Cryin’ in the Rain,” “Mommas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to be Cowboys,” “Good Hearted Woman” and “If You’ve Got the Money, I’ve Got the Time” helped him earn a staggering 11 Grammy Awards, 7 American Music Awards, 9 CMA Awards, 5 Academy of Country Music Awards and many more.
Willie Nelson is an 83 year-old American icon, who has inspired generations with his talent and independent spirit. His appearance at the Buffalo Chip on Aug. 5 will offer a connection between the people who adore him and the legend who has championed their way of life and American values.
“We don’t get many moments to share with a legend like Willie Nelson,” said Buffalo Chip president Rod Woodruff. “He’s taken us all on one hell of a ride, and he always brings us back home. This concert opportunity is one you’d kick yourself later for missing.”
The list of celebrated musicians scheduled for the 35th anniversary of “The Best Party Anywhere” continues to grow, with the lineup currently including the following acts:
Friday, Aug. 5 – Willie Nelson, Drake White
Saturday, Aug. 6 – 3 Doors Down
Sunday, Aug. 7 – Kid Rock, Leon Russell
Monday, Aug. 8 – Lynyrd Skynyrd, Elle King
Wednesday, Aug 10 – Reverend Horton Heat
Thursday, Aug. 11 – Miranda Lambert
Saturday, Aug – “Weird Al” Yankovic
More band announcements will be forthcoming until the Buffalo Chip’s 9-day festival schedule has been announced. Those wishing to purchase passes may do so by going to BuffaloChip.com or calling 605-347-9000.
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HARLEY-DAVIDSON Will Face Class Action Over Hot Engines– A defective products class action lawsuit against Harley-Davidson, filed by four bikers who allege their Harley Davidson motorcycles were defectively designed, can go forward.
The class action lawsuit claims that the Harley Davidson engines run so hot that they pose a constant danger to riders in that the engines cause burns and are therefore not fit for their intended use.
The complaint alleges that since 1999, Twin Cam 88, 96, 103 and 110 cubic inch engines in Harley motorcycles produce severe, excessive heat causing clothing to catch on fire, burn injuries and the danger of burn injury to riders and passengers as well as overheating causing premature engine wear and in models manufactured after 2006, transmission failure.
Although Harley -Davidson asked the Eastern District of California court to throw out the claims under state law, a U.S. District Judge sided with the bikers. The recent ruling allows the case to move forward, and Harley-Davidson will now face Class Action Certification process at the end of the month.
–Speed and Engines.com
Pussies: If you are afraid of riding a motorcycle go get a car.
–Rogue
METALSPORT TESTIMONIAL OF THE WEEK–
“Coolest F%@#in’ wheels I’ve ever seen!”
– Eddie Trotta
“World class product and service to match! Thanks for your help in making “Bodacious” the world’s first bagger with a 24? front wheel, I Can`t wait to see what MetalSport can do for my next build!”
– Gary Buckley
I-Team: Hillsborough firefighter says he’s an Outlaw but not bar fighter–
A Hillsborough County firefighter and emergency medical technician who also acknowledges membership in an outlaw motorcycle club is facing a charge of battery on a law enforcement officer after a weekend incident in St. Petersburg.
The arrest of 32-year-old Clinton N. Walker of Bradenton, follows just days after an ABC Action News I-Team report about two fire captains, including another member of his Hillsborough department, serving as presidents of local chapters of outlaw motorcycle clubs identified by federal authorities as criminal gangs.
Walker’s arrest came after St. Petersburg police were called early Saturday to the Del Mar Gastro Lounge at 243 Central Ave., where a man had been knocked unconscious. The injured patron was later hospitalized with a cracked skull and bleeding on the brain, according to a police report.
A witness told police that Walker hit the man. When police tried to detain Walker, they say he became combative and officers needed to use a Taser to subdue him. Police also charged another Hillsborough firefighter, Robert Ramirez, with obstructing or resisting law enforcement without violence.
In a telephone interview Tuesday, Walker denied hitting anybody last week and told the I-Team that he is confident that various videos capturing his altercation with police will exonerate him.
In four short video clips provided to the I-Team, Walker is seen wearing a shirt with the name and logo of the Outlaws, one of the bike gangs that has been labeled a criminal organization by federal agents. Walker says police told him to put his hands behind his back.
“They assume he did something wrong because of the patch he wears on his back,” said Walker’s attorney, Jerry Theophilopoulos of Tarpon Springs, who provided the cellphone camera clips. “He’s literally standing there with his hands behind his back and then they Tasered him to the ground. And then they continued to Taser him.”
The I-Team doesn’t have a full video of the entire incident, but Theophilopoulos believes the bar’s surveillance camera will reveal the rest.
Walker says he is proud to belong to the Outlaws and disagrees with the feds labeling them as criminals. A Hillsborough firefighter since 2006, Walker says he served in the Marine Corps and fought in Iraq.
The I-Team found an online photograph of Walker posing with James Costa, a Hillsborough fire captain whom law enforcement contends is the president of the local Outlaws chapter. In addition to Costa, the I-Team reported last week that law enforcement has identified Pasco County fire Capt. Glen Buzze as president of another outlaw motorcycle club, the Pagans. Neither Costa nor Buzze has a criminal record.
–by Jarrod Holbrook
ABC Action News.com
–Rogue
UNCLE MONKEY ON BETRAYAL–
This ain’t no Sunday ride. No swaying grass, no soaring eagles high over the clouds. This is revenge, vindication, and justice. You wring more fuel into the motor. Slam through the gears quicker then you can get the clutching in knowing the Baker will hold up.
The cars and the road side are a blur as you thunder past. You knew better than to trust him, knew better than to trust them, and then to trust her. Now, you are closing the gap between you, as fast as Milwaukee will let you. You don’t know what you’ll do when you get there, don’t care what you’ll do when you get there.
You shoot the gap between a minivan and the wall. More fuel, more rage. This is why you spent all that money, all those late nights spinning wrenches honing your machine into a speed demon. It was never suppose to be for this reason, but in the back of your mind you knew the double cross was coming, knew that you would be on the road like this one day.
Howling obscenities at the wind, at what awaits your wrath. The joint in the freeway bucks you high in the air only to slam down hard – more fuel for your own fire. There will be no cause or effect, no judge and jury for them as you’ll bring hell down upon them. This ain’t no Sunday ride, no time for remorse.
-bad Uncle Monkey
KAWASAKI’S Model Year 2017 Spring Product Announcement–
We are very excited to announce the launch of our 2017 spring products which includes our ATV, Mule, Teryx, KX and KLX models!
The following models are ALL NEW for 2017:
KX250F – The most dominant motocross bike gets an upgrade
Lighter weight
More powerful engine
Improved handling
KLX140G – The KLX line gets a full size trail bike
Full size wheels
Electric start
Light weight
MULE SX – The Mule family gets a little brother
MULE PRO inspired styling
Compact size (will fit in the bed of a full size pickup truck)
More than 50 Kawasaki Genuine Accessories available
In addition, the following 2017 models are also introduced:
Motorcycle
KX450F
KX100
KX85
KX65
KLX110/L
KLX140/L
ATV
KFX90
KFX50
Brute Force 300
Brute Force 750 4x4i/EPS/EPS Camo
Mule
MULE 4010 Trans4x4/SE/Camo
MULE 4010 4×4/SE
MULE 4000
MULE PRO-FXT/EPS/EPS LE/EPS Camo/Ranch Edition
MULE PRO-DXT/EPS/EPS LE
MULE PRO-FX/EPS/EPS LE/EPS Camo
MULE PRO-DX/EPS/EPS LE
Teryx
Teryx/LE/Camo
Teryx4/LE/Camo
[page break]
KILLER WALL ART–Vehicle Wall Art offers a wide range of wall-mounted car sides to fit any setting whether an office reception, retail entrance, or private residence.
Our Mission is to showcase the beauty and elegance of world motoring and it’s rich history. We become upset when seeing rare cars taken off the road, destined to be sold for parts or even worse,scrapped.
Our aim is to restore vehicles that are no longer in use and display them as works of art to be admired by their new or original owners.
For more information please contact Danny
+44 (0) 800 056 4966 / 07931 317 007
danny@vehiclewallart.com
www.vehiclewallart.com
KEEP THE BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY OPEN FOR LUNCH– Kids today don’t know how easy they have it … when I was young, I had to walk 9 feet through shag carpet to change the TV channel …
I love being over 65, I learn something new every day, and forget 5 others …
–from Jerry and Rogue
VICTORY MOTORCYCLES RACING FOR A RETURN TO THE PODIUM AT ISLE OF MAN TT WITH ALL-NEW VICTORY RR ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE– William Dunlop set to pilot new race bike that serves as a test bed for future powertrains
Victory Motorcycles, a brand that delivers Modern American Muscle™ by producing motorcycles with head-snapping acceleration, power and handling, is returning with the Victory Racing team to compete in the Isle of Man TT Zero race with an all-new electric race bike called the Victory RR.
The Victory RR has been developed over the past year using data gathered during last year’s TT Zero and will be ridden by William Dunlop.
“One way we continuously push ourselves in performance is through our Victory Racing initiatives,” says Alex Hultgren, Director of Marketing for Victory Motorcycles. “The Isle of Man TT is one of the most challenging motorcycle races in the world, so of course we have to be there.”
Victory’s international R&D development program is well underway and the Victory RR bike serves as a test bed for technology that will be used in the brand’s future products.
According to Brian Wismann, Victory Racing’s team manager: “Our electric Empulse RR race bike placed third on the podium in the TT Zero race last year, which we were thrilled with. Using the data we gathered on our laps of the TT course has helped us to develop a new battery module as well as improving the powertrain. We feel like we can return to the TT with more performance as well as being able to test this technology for our future products.”
“This year with a new machine and new technology behind us we continue to have high expectations,” Hultgren adds. “We are working to develop the best platform for our racer, William Dunlop, who is familiar with the view from the podium.”
“The newly developed battery leverages the lessons learned from our entry in last year’s TT Zero event,” Wisemann says. “The battery is a ground-up new design with the help of our technical partners at Brammo and necessitated a big change in the chassis design – from an extruded aluminum twin spar to a steel trellis frame.
The biggest difference in the battery itself is an improvement in both the overall energy / capacity we’re carrying onboard the bike, as well as a marked improvement in the energy density of the battery itself. As you know, lithium-ion battery technology is improving every year and with the Victory RR we are leading the way to batteries that will provide more performance, greater range and less cost in future vehicles.”
Some enhancements have also been made to the electric motor. Developed in partnership with Parker Hannifin, the motor is called the Parker GVM. It boasts world-class specific power (the power to weight ratio), producing a peak of over 170hp from a package that is only eight inches in diameter and five inches long. With peak efficiencies topping 97 percent, it is clear to see why Victory gets excited about the potential of this powertrain for future products.
“Compared to the electric motor we used in the TT Zero event last year, this year’s version features an even further optimized winding configuration based on the data gathered from last year’s bikes,” Wismann says. “Coupled with the increased energy on board in the battery, William Dunlop will have access to more of the power available from this motor than in 2015.”
The first practice for the TT Zero is scheduled for Friday June 3 at 8:40 p.m. A second practice takes place on the Monday June 6 at 4:25 p.m., and the race itself begins Wednesday June 8 at 4:20 p.m.
Visit www.victorymotorcycles.com/en-us/isle-of-man for more information about Victory Racing at the Isle of Man TT. Learn more about Victory Motorcycles at VictoryMotorcycles.com or follow on Twitter and Facebook.
BIKERNET TO COVER Heroes Motorcycles, Los Angeles– Located in the prominent La Brea Avenue of Los Angeles, California, Heroes Motorcycles is a unique store specialized in restoring and selling vintage motorbikes.
Owning the business and managing the day to day operations is Serge Bueno, who brings over 20 years of experience in design and engineering, fuelled by a deep and long lasting passion for classic motorcycles. Serge initially had the idea of a “Motorcycle Gallery” back in France where he comes from.
Watch for a full report on the new/old school hip shops in LA on Bikernet in the next week.–Bandit
AH, WORDS FROM THE MOUNTAIN TEMPLE– Life is All About What We Pay Our Attention To:
With Each and every day we are faced with choices. We all have our demons that try and take over. We all have fears, challenges and obstacles, but how we choose to Live today is up to us.
I know we have that within us that supersedes any challenge and supports us with the Universal Law of cause and effect. Henry Ford said “If you think you can or you think you can’t your right.”
Buddha said, “All that we are is the result of what we have thought. The mind is everything. What we think we become.”
These teachers and many more have simply said that what we think about is what we become. One of the most important things is to take the time out and listen to your conversations and thoughts. Are they positive, confident uplifting or negative limiting thoughts?
Are you talking about the problem or the solution?
WOW, these are some heavy thoughts but we have choices of how we want to start today and how we choose to go forward with Life from this moment on. I know that we are perfect whole and complete and have the choice to Live the Life we want if we truly choose this path.
Like Ford said, “If you think you can or you think you can’t your right.” He was right. He thought he could build a car company and he did.
–YALE
Venerable Master of the Bikernet Temple
5-BALL RACING CLUB CONNECTION— If you have a group or a club and you want distinct vests, Jeremiah is your guy. He will show you our three vest styles and get you hooked up for a great price.
If you have a large group and want something special, only for your group, we can make it happen. Just drop him a note: Jeremiah soto
–Bandit
WACO ACTION, Lawyer seeks to remove DA from Twin Peaks cases– McLennan County District Attorney Abel Reyna should be disqualified from prosecuting cases arising from the Twin Peaks biker shootout because he overstepped his authority by “commandeering” the investigation, a Houston attorney said Tuesday.
“There is a big difference between advising and commandeering,” attorney Abigail Anastasio said.
Anastasio represents Ray Nelson, 42, president of the Hill County Cossacks and one of 154 bikers indicted in the May 17, 2015, shootout at Twin Peaks in Waco that left nine bikers dead and more than 20 wounded.
She filed a motion Tuesday in Waco’s 54th State District Court seeking to disqualify Reyna and assistants Michael Jarrett and Mark Parker from prosecuting the Twin Peaks cases because she
alleges they are potential witnesses because of the way Reyna inserted himself into the investigation on the evening of the shootout.
“They started calling the shots,” Anastasio alleged in a press conference after filing the motion. “They were the ones who determined the course of the investigation, what steps to be taken next, without law enforcement having a significant role in that.”
Reyna did not return messages Tuesday. Jarrett and Parker both declined comment on the motion.
No hearing date has been set for Judge Matt Johnson to consider the motion.
The motion alleges that Reyna arrived at the Waco Convention Center after the shootout and changed the scope of the investigation by insisting that everyone linked to the Cossacks, Bandidos or any of their support groups be arrested and charged with first-degree felony engaging in organized criminal activity.
Before Reyna and his assistants arrived, Waco police and other agencies had questioned, identified and processed a busload of bikers and released them from the Waco Convention Center. After Reyna arrived, the remaining bikers went to jail, the motion states.
“This interview with the district attorney’s office changed the scope and course of the investigation,” the motion alleges. “The decisions involved were made not by the law enforcement officers, but by the above prosecutors (and possibly others within that office). The affidavit supporting arrest was not written according to the facts noted by any individual officer, but by the district attorney’s office.”
Anastasio said she intends to call Reyna and possibly his assistants as witnesses because of their role in the case. That is why she is seeking their disqualification from prosecuting it.
“During the course of this investigation, the district attorneys, while they do have a right to advise law enforcement as to how to proceed in a case, took over the investigation in this case and overstepped their bounds,” she said.
“Defense attorneys have a right to inquire as to the course of the investigation in a case. If the person directing the course of the investigation is the prosecuting attorney, then I have a right to ask that person about that.”
–Waco Tribune
–from Rogue
BATES FOOTWEAR POWERSPORTS LINE Blends Comfort and Protection with Poron XRD Technology
Since its product launch last October, the Bates Footwear PowerSports Line has taken the motorcycle industry by storm. The longtime manufacturer of tactical and dress footwear for the United States Armed Forces has applied a unique combination of materials and technology into the design and development of the PowerSports Line, and the result is a motorcycle boot that is just as comfortable off the bike as it is protective on the bike.
One such material is XRD® Extreme Impact Protection from Poron. What makes the XRD foam unique is its ability to react to stress or impact. At rest, the foam is soft and flexible to the touch, but upon impact hardens into a protective shell and dissipates impact force. XRD® is shown to absorb up to 90% of energy at high speed impact, and is being applied to a wide variety of products in many industries. Learn more about Poron at www.xrd.tech.
This revolutionary material is incorporated into the ankle areas of each of the Bates PowerSports boots, allowing for comfort and flexibility while walking or riding and yet also providing impact protection to a critical area. Rider protection is supplemented with abrasion-resistant leather and nylon outer construction, and molded TPU heels. The result is a line of boots that are flexible and comfortable enough to wear for long hours on and off the bike, while also providing a degree of rigidity and impact protection.
FRESH BATCH COMES TO BANDIT’S CANTINA– Want more Bikeweek 2016? We have plenty more to post. It’s TIMELESS, it’s HOT, it’s COOL, and it’s live from BIKE WEEK this past March.
It’s all fun to review. In many cases, they are the same faces from year to year, just aged a bit.
However this gallery very recent discovered outside a bar in Orlando, so ENJOY! Don’t tell Bandit.
–JACK MCINTYRE
PHOTOGRAPHER
Co-Editor of Bandit’s Cantina
BIKERNET.COM
The OLD TRAGIC TALE OF ABANDONED MOTORCYCLE GRAVEYARD– in Upstate New York …
This story starts with a motorcycle enthusiast named David Cuff who came across someone’s Flickr account that contained a collection of mystifying photographs showing a forgotten army of motorcycles abandoned in an unknown warehouse.
Cuff set out on a mission to find the motorcycle graveyard and thanks to a random information about the location on a sport bike forum, David and his friends discovered the exact location of the rusty graveyard – 71 Gooding Street, the City of Lockport, Niagara County, New York.
He was determined to visit the motorcycle graveyard, if it was indeed still there, take pictures, hopefully even purchase an old bike. He organized a trip with his friends and they hit the road heading nine hours north to the town of Lockport, New York, to find out if the place was truly the rusty vintage bike heaven the message boards had made it out to be.
The place was known as the Motorcycle Graveyard of Lockport. From the early 1970’s, the building on Gooding Street became the headquarters for this growing business. The company was established by Kohls Cycle Sales after collecting over 50 years worth of motorcycles and related parts. Around 1997 Kohl sold the building and motorcycles to a man named Frank Murrell, and Frank operated the business as Kohl’s Cycle Salvage which sold parts off of the hundreds of motorcycles.
“The building with the alleged motorcycles is within eye sight of the canal lock,” describes David of the moment he first eyed the warehouse. “We hung out by the lock for a little while watching boats being raised and lowered. I was getting a feel for the area and casing the building like a bank robber.”
“The buildings were trashed, stuff everywhere … There were small hints that there were motorcycles in there with a gas tank here and a beat up motorcycle frame there.
The door to the building that had the motorcycles was open a few inches and I could see a motorcycle leaning against the wall…
The basement was full of old rusty bikes that nearly rusted away from the moisture in the air…There was a set up stairs that looked like they were just days from crumbling. I lightly walked upstairs and opened the door and that’s where my jaw dropped.
The room was full of motorcycles. There were holes on the main floor with motorcycles falling into the basement and there were motorcycles on the third floor falling onto the main floor. Half of the main floor was concrete and very stable so we wondered around and tried to process what we were seeing while trying to be quiet and be aware what was around us.”
The building was condemned and owned by the City of Lockport due to unpaid property taxes. A lengthy process to acquire accident insurance would be needed for Frank to enter the building. David began to call Frank regularly, gaining his trust in the hopes of helping him save some of the forgotten bikes.
“The process was slow and I would call Frank every three to four days and inquire about the status of entry. I probably got on Frank’s nerves but I knew it would be worth it in the end. Frank was very patient with me and always gave me an update when I called.“
–The Vintage News
–from Chris Tronolone
Expressive Design, Hawaii
TWO THINGS— We are working on a new logo for the Bikernet Blog. George came up with some options. We may use all of them.
And we are looking for interesting news items for the blog and they can be crazy
For instance, from the Week Magazine, Yiru Sun had to cancel her wedding after her reception was booked. Rather than throwing $8000 away, she reached out to the Salvation army and invited 60 needy kids and their families for a luncheon with balloons, ice pops, and face painting. Not bad.
–Bandit
California GUN NUT REPORT: Senate Floor Vote on Nine Anti-Gun Bills Expected Tomorrow
Contact your state Senator IMMEDIATELY
Tomorrow, Thursday, May 19, the state Senate is scheduled to vote on NINE anti-gun bills. These bills are being fast-tracked because of political gamesmanship between anti-gun state Senators and Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom.
They are fighting to see who can take credit for removing Second Amendment rights first in California. Don’t take our word on the political fighting, click here to read a Reuters’ article, California Democrat dueling over gun control plans by Sharon Bernstein. Constitutional Rights should be treated with the utmost respect as the backbone of this great nation. It is extremely irresponsible that these anti-gun politicians would place your rights in jeopardy for political gain.
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-california-politics-gun-control-idUSKCN0Y81BZ
WE MUST send a clear message to the State Senate that regulating and restricting our constitutional freedoms will no longer be tolerated.
It is extremely important that you pass this alert to your family, friends, fellow gun owners and sportsmen asking them to contact their state Senator and then forwarding this message on to their family, friends, and fellow gun owners and sportsmen.
Please click here to read our previous alert on how these bills will affect California’s gun owners, sportsmen, and Second Amendment supporters.
It’s CRUCIAL that EVERY law-abiding gun owner, sportsmen, and Second Amendment supporter contact their state Senator and respectfully urge him or her to OPPOSE SB 1235, AB 156, SB 1407, AB 857, SB 880, AB 1135, AB 1511, SB 894, and SB 1006.
If you are not registered to vote, now is the time to do so! Click here to register to vote, so you can support candidates who believe in your right to keep and bear arms.
Pirelli SCORPION Trail II Wins the Enduro Street Tire Comparison Test Carried Out by the German Magazine Motorrad–
Specially Designed for the Latest Generation Adventure Touring and Enduro Street Motorcycles, SCORPION Trail II is Confirmed for the Second Time as the Number One Tire, Having Won the Comparative Test Last Year As Well.
Pirelli SCORPION Trail II is the best endure-street tire on the market. Proclaiming this is the prestigious German magazine Motorrad, which has completed a comparative test of the best endure-street tires available for sale.
The victory in the 2016 test is confirmation for Pirelli. The SCORPION Trail II had already been voted best endure-street tire in the 2015 edition of the same comparative test, and this second success further reinforces the supremacy of this tire in its segment. It also highlights, after one year since being introduced on the market, that no other tire manufacturer has been able to match the performance offered by the technological solutions developed by Pirelli.
Specifically, the endure-street comparative test was published in the 11/2016 release of Motorrad currently on newsstands. The editorial staff of the magazine compared the tires from six manufacturers in sizes 120/70 R19 front and 170/60 R17 rear mounted on the current model of BMW R 1200 GS.
SCORPION Trail II was the winner in three out of four of the tests performed: daily use on provincial roads in new conditions, wet testing and evaluation of the behavior after 4.000 kilometers of use. And in the last test, the evaluation of the tread wear, it finished second just behind the METZELER TOURANCE Next.
In each test, different parameters were evaluated and a numeric value assigned. In total, a maximum score of 500 points was available.
Below is the final ranking and score:
1) Pirelli SCORPION Trail II 458/500 points
2) Metzeler TOURANCE Next 446/500 points
3) Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A 40 429/500 points
4) Continental Trail Attack 2 425/500 points
5) Dunlop Trailsmart 414/500 points
5) Michelin Anakee III 414/500 points
From the article, we learn that the Pirelli SCORPION Trail II has positively impressed the experienced testers of Motorrad for its riding precision combined with an exceptional stability and a consistent, sporty behavior after many kilometers. The first-class wet behavior was further evidence to decree SCORPION Trail II the best in its segment.
GRANT MONEY FOR MOTORCYCLE CHECKPOINTS– As I dig in deeper to better understanding the issues facing us, I have been researching the language we advocated for regarding motorcycle checkpoints in the highway bill (FAST Act) that was signed into law.
During my research I’ve uncovered some additional information that I believe may be worth sharing with you all.
Like previous highway bills (MAP 21 & SAFETEA-LU) The FAST Act continues to require NHTSA award highway safety grants. This is where the programs we are chiefly concerned with (402 and 405(f) monies) are found.
Though the name may eventually change to “FAST Funding Programs” instead of MAP21, the FAST Act did not significantly change the structure of the highway grant programs. Primarily, it made targeted amendments to existing grant programs.
So for our purposes we should still be focused Section 405(f): Motorcyclist Safety and Section 402: State and Community Highway Safety Grants.
As I am sure you are all well aware, 1.5% of Section 405 funds are earmarked for motorcyclist safety incentive grants. A state must satisfy two out of six eligibility criteria in order to receive funds, and the use of funds is limited to motorcycle training and awareness programs.
However, Section 402 is far broader. Funds under this program can be spent in accordance with national guidelines for programs who aim to achieve any of the following:
· Reduce impaired driving
· Reduce speeding
· Encourage the use of occupant protection
· Improve motorcycle safety
· Improve pedestrian and bicycle safety
· Reduce school bus deaths and injuries
· Reduce crashes from unsafe driving behavior
· Improve enforcement of traffic safety laws
· Improve driver performance
· Improve traffic records
· Enhance emergency services
Now, what is a VERY big positive for us is that within the FAST Act it expressly states that grants CANNOT be used (regardless if they come from 405 or 402) to check for helmet usage or create checkpoints that specifically target motorcycle operations.
I know there has been a lot of discussion about NHTSA switching to the use of 402 funds rather than 405 funds to target motorcyclists. However, it’s less about which pot of money the grant comes from and more about any activity that’s being done via grant money that would be used to “check for helmet usage” or “create checkpoints that specifically target motorcycle operators or passengers”
If you believe that your state is using NHTSA grant money to do either of these things, I encourage you to contact me and be prepared to give me concrete examples in writing explaining the situation and confirming that NHTSA grant money is being used. If I can obtain some exact and specific details in writing, I can better determine if what’s being done is a direct violation to the FAST Act OR a sneaky loophole that we could perhaps address with legislative language in a future legislative bill.
GRANT MONEY REGARDING THE USE OF HELMETS
You should also be advised that if your state requires by law the use of a helmet, grant monies can continue to be used regarding education, enforcement and use of safety belts and helmets.
The following language in Section 4007 in the FAST Act contains the following:
“NOTWITHSTANDING SECTION 153 OF TITLE 23, the Secretary may not provide a grant or any funds to a State [to be] used for any program- to (1) check helmet usage; or (2) create checkpoints that specifically target motorcycle operators”
So the ‘notwithstanding’ clause emphasizes that the Secretary DOES have the authority to make grants regarding the use of safety belts and helmets assuming the state law requires a helmet:
http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:23%20section:153%20edition:prelim)
Again, as I start to dig deeper on these issues I am starting to get a better handle on how we are impacted. If I can answer any questions or if you have any comments on the above, please do not hesitate to contact me.
–Megan Ekstrom
Vice-President, Government Affairs & Public Relations
Motorcycle Riders Foundation
www.mrf.org
NEVER A DULL MOMENT—And it never ends. We came close to wrapping up a major tech. I sent docs to the city about our vast Bikernet Headquarters.
We posted Buster’s upgraded Bikernet Shrunken FXR and I didn’t run girls with the feature, since his wife is cool and he has more kids every week.
We have a bunch of new content flying at the Cantina and I just received the latest Bill Bish report. Watch for a teaser on Sunday.
I know there’s more, but I need a whiskey.
Ride Free Forever,
–Bandit
