Hey,
Life is happening fast. With a growing everything and new technology it’s happening daily, how can anyone keep up. The Redhead can lay in bed all day and holler out on-time reports from anywhere on the planet.
I talked about time management recently, but it’s way more. And if you have kids. Holy shit, how can anyone keep up. I’m writing to the Trump administration. I’ve got a few more goals for him to focus on. Make it so one parent can stay home with the kids. Make life simpler. Good luck with that one.
Can you believe how corrupt our government became in the last 20 years? Can you believe mayors would rather burn your homes and pay drug addicts to live on the streets, over cleaning the streets and protecting citizens. It’s nuts. I knew it was happening, the destruction of America. I fought back by supporting the MRF, IMA, the CO2 coalition and SEMA’s SAN.
I tried to inform my readers about the Climate Doom conspiracy. Whether you’re red or blue, the truth matters.
As you can see all around you, the brothers and sisters can’t stop Mama Tried, The Smoke-Out, Born Free. They’re all growing. Choppers ain’t dead. Loud pipes save lives and helmet laws suck.
Fuck it, build something cool and ride wherever you want. But try to find a minute to get involved.
Let’s hit the news.
The News was provided by the Bikernet Team including: Wayfarer, the Redhead, Bob T. Sam Burns, Laura, Barry Green, El Waggs, J.J. Solari, Amy White, Jenn and the rest of the crew.
The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.
NEW CHOPPERFEST A SUCCESS—
The gang at Choppers Magazine took over Chopper Fest in Ventura and this last weekend it rocked. Here’s the Frank Ball Jr. report:
No drama. Other than Brian breaking a bottle on a dude’s head for pulling a blade on me…The booth did good. A lot of people bought stuff and came by and hung out and showed respect.
Ride was fun, weather good, smooth overall. People are really stoked on the brand and your Bonneville Trike record, my tattoo shop, everything.
—Frank Ball Jr.
MECUM AUCTION NEWS–
St. Paul-made motorcycle sells for record $1.32 million
The bike, produced by Joerns Motor Manufacturing Company, had rare street riding components
A 1915 Cyclone V-Twin motorcycle, manufactured by the Joerns Motor Manufacturing Company in St. Paul, sold Sunday at auction in Las Vegas for $1.32 million, a record sale for a vintage motorcycle.
For the whole story google St. Paul Pioneer Press
–Mecum Auctions
The bike was restored by Stephan Wright, a motorcycle historian in Southern California. According to my source his effort was a cobbled together motorcycle out of parts and pieces over 20 years. “Only the front end and front fender are real. Engine internals are all H-D.” –Bandit
NEWS FROM THE DIME BAG EMPIRE—
Here’s a update on my shop on Route 66 in Atlanta IL.
Close to finishing my motorcycle worktable, just need to get a sheet of 3/4 plywood for top and lower shelf, as well get a wheel chock to bolt down.
Will be able to offer inhouse custom seat pans fabrication for custom builds, steel or fiberglass.
Got a flux core welder to start manufacturing DimeBag leather seat pans for choppers frames and early H-D swingarm frames. And of course, custom seat pans.
Always growing here at DimeBag Leather
–Adam Croft
Dime Bag Leather Works
THREE REMASTERED ALBUMS ARE NOW AVAILABLE– on Vinyl & CD
Legendary singer-songwriter Don McLean, best known for his timeless classic American Pie, is bringing his music to a new generation by re-releasing three iconic albums. McLean’s classic records, Believers, Chain Lightning, and Prime Time, have been remastered and returned to physical formats today on vinyl and CD via BFD/Audium Nashville.
“It’s incredible to see these albums getting new life,” McLean shared. “The songs on these records hold deep meaning for me, and I’m grateful to BFD for helping make them available to longtime fans and a whole new generation of music lovers.”
The three reissued albums are available now: fanlink.tv/DonMcLeanReissues.
BILLY LANE SONS OF SPEED RETURNS—
Two-day Hot pass now available
Friday 2/28 action starts. Watch Practive from the grandstands. Meet and greet with Billy and the racers and receive a commerative poster and special Hot Pass.
Saturday with full pit access you can see all the race action and interact with the pit crews who are crying because they lost…
Billy Lane
United States
HOT BIKE MAGAZINE ACTION–
2025 PRINT MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE NOW!
We’re back with 4 killer printed issues in 2025, delivered right to your mailbox! Support the independently owned and operated Hot Bike with this high-quality, coffee-table style printed motorcycle magazine, delivered Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter in 2025.
Get your print subscription RIGHT HERE and stay tuned for what’s in store in 2025!
SEMA ASKED, YOU ANSWERED–
SEMA Action Network (SAN) advocates delivered more than 16,000 letters of support from all 50 states for crucial cabinet positions to Congress in less than a week, unmatched by other trade associations.
Why this matters: SEMA’s strong support for each nominee is based on their extensive qualifications and the important role these departments play in regulating the automotive aftermarket, off-road and racing industries.
Key Posts:
Former U.S. Rep. Sean Duffy leads the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin leads the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Former North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum leads the U.S. Department of Interior.
The reality – Our advocacy strategy is unique. We do not rely on huge lobbying teams. We have several experts on staff who are backed up by YOUR grassroots muscle, which other groups lack.
The SAN’s strength is our grassroots program – we need your help making sure we reach everyone in the community.
–Sema
HANG ON FROM THE BUFFALO CHIP EMPIRE—
ZZ TOP IS COMING
No ifs, ands, or beards about it…
This will be the largest kickoff party the Sturgis Rally has seen!
Featuring that Little Ol’ Band from Texas…
Join the Kickoff Party Parade to Ride In and Watch the Show!
THE LATEST FROM GREASE AND GEARS TV–
Hey,
We’re stoked to announce the release of our latest video, How it Was Built – The 2024 FXRTea Episode 5: Upgrading The Mechanical & Electrical! We can’t wait for you to check it out.
You can watch the video now on Grease & Gears TV – please help spread the word and share the news of this new drop on your social media. Tell them you saw it on Grease & Gears TV.
Ride Safe & Be Cool!
–Chris and Heather
THE FLYING PISTON IS LANDING IN DAYTONA–
Extraordinary art from Dana KT of MetalWood Garage showcased at Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson for the Flying Piston Benefit Breakfast on Monday, March 3. Be there (tickets at: https://shop.daytonaharleydavidson.com/) or bid online here: https://qtego.us/qlink/flyingpiston
Who comes to the Flying Piston Benefit Breakfast during Daytona Bike Week? We’re proud to welcome guys like Michael Lichter! Be there or be square… Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson, Motorcycle Safety Lawyers, Metal Works, All Kids Ride.
Thanks. Photo attached. Also sending you the event flyer with all the details.
The ticket link is: https://shop.daytonaharleydavidson.com/
The auction link is: https://qtego.us/qlink/flyingpiston
We also have pics and videos of Dana Tilling fabricating metal art for the event. I’ll copy Jeff Najar on this so he can send you those.
–Marilyn Stemp
Boss
CAN HARLEY BE FIXED—
A reader answers the question.
I’m going to fix H-D.
Seems the foreign turnaround artist they hired to run the show is running the company the wrong way. Bring back the $3995 or relative price-basic Sportster that a newbie can buy and after a year he gets his $3995 back to use towards an affordable big twin.
Phase out half the baggers and bring back a cool easy to handle basic black swingarm bike and a bare bones nostalgic Softail equipped with a two-up seat and passenger pegs. My 2 cents
–Geno out
“Harley-Davidson has revealed its financial results for the 2024 fiscal year, and they were far from ideal. In fact, there was a clear decline.” — Bandit
Source: M Sports
https://search.app/6xyBXtspDa7uUDGB7
TERRY THE TRAMP REVIEW–
Your ears must have been burning. I was just talking about you yesterday. Someone was talking about a story that one of our contributors wrote which included references to the history of outlaw bikers. I asked him if had ever read your book, Terry the Tramp. They had not. I told them if they want to know the real history, get that book.
–Keith Kizer
AMCA
Available in the 5-Ball Garage
WHY WE RIDE HEADS TO THE QUAIL–
Only 24 Hours Left ….
for returning riders to register before pricing goes UP for this year’s
9th Annual Why We Ride to The Quail Motorcycle Gathering!
LATEST NEWS FROM THE FULL THROTTLE SALOON–
JOIN US AT THE MAMA TRIED BIKE SHOW!
Mama Tried Bike Show: Awake from Harley Hibernation with Custom Bikes, Races, and Much more!
Discover Why Full Throttle’s Pappy Hoel Campground is the Top Spot for Sturgis Rally Goers—Epic Amenities, Biker Vibes, and Front-Row Access to the Action!
http://FullThrottleSaloon.comon.com
COMMENT FOR Daily News Byte Department
Harley-Davidson X440 unit sales comparison
https://blog.bikernet.com/harley-davidson-x440-unit-sales-comparison/
“A pos from India”
—- William Hofelt –
Atchison, Kansas
WAYFARER ELABORATES—
Entry level models play a crucial role in automotive industry and its related economics. Once the bakery gives you a taste of its goodies, you get the sweet tooth and sooner than later, you are tempted to go back and get something more or something bigger and better. I think it’s not just about volume sales though that is a primary and immediate benefit toward maintaining a global brand presence.
If one has to compete with the ideology of urban mobility and utility and commuting costs as evangelized by Electric Vehicles (EVs) then smaller engine motorcycles can be a great competitor and even push away the Electric Vehicle imposition by governments and bankers and Wall Street.
A customer’s preference is the ultimate mandate to discourage manufacturers having unsold stock and debts to pay to angel investors among tech startups.
For those in love with big V-Twins, the smaller capacity engines can be a great second bike or an introduction bike for wifey or teenage kid. Enjoy your big V lifestyle while you utilize the local benefits of a lightweight bike or single cylinder engine.
Don’t discount the X440, they are coming up with a new updated spec and design this year. They sure don’t discount the practice of cross sales and add-on sales. After all, Harley-Davidson is a lifestyle product. It is never just a motorcycle sale.
–Wayfarer
International Editor
Bikernet.com
BILLY RAY CYRUS UNLEASHES LOST WITH TOMMEE PROFITT AND SAM TINNESZ–
With much anticipation, two-time GRAMMY winner Billy Ray Cyrus joins Tommee Profitt and Sam Tinnesz on LOST, available everywhere today. Cyrus’ soulful and gritty vocals on LOST showcases his stylistic approach on this alternative masterpiece.
LOST is the second release from Tommee Profitt and Sam Tinnesz upcoming album “The Fall,” out April 11th, and epitomizes the new music which blends poetic storytelling with an intense melody, giving a feeling of endless wandering and existential yearning.
“The Fall,” which features Cyrus on LOST, also includes collaborations with Our Last Night, Shaya Zamora, MaryJo, and more.
This summer, Cyrus will release a new album of all new music produced by his son Braison Cyrus.
To keep up with Cyrus, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, TikTok and visit billyraycyrus.com.
MYSTERY OF THE WEEK–Where’s the Hell Raiser?
Where is the Hellraiser event? The stars may align and give me a few days to attend. It is a crap shoot but it might just work.
Just let me know where it is, and I will see if I can work it out.
—Scooter
scootershoots@gmail.com
CLIMATE CHANGE GOES TO COURT—
One energy expert told Fox that “energy policy should be set by elected officials, not litigated into existence by activist lawyers”
The climate change movement was issued a massive blow on Wednesday after a trial judge permanently closed a Democrat-charged lawsuit claiming that big oil was to blame for climate-caused damages in the state.
In 2022, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin filed a lawsuit against the country’s largest oil companies, ExxonMobil, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Phillips 66, Shell, as well as the American Petroleum Institute, claiming that the fossil fuel industry was worsening the effects of climate change, and therefore, causing damage to the state.
However, the case was tossed out on Wednesday by New Jersey Superior Court Judge Douglas Hurd, who ruled that lawful oil companies could not be held liable for worldwide emissions. The case was dismissed with prejudice, meaning it cannot be reopened.
“Plaintiffs seek to regulate the nationwide—and even worldwide—marketing and distribution of lawful products on which billions of people outside of New Jersey rely to heat their homes, power their hospitals and schools, produce and transport their food, and manufacture countless items essential to the safety, wellbeing, and advancement of modern society,” said Hurd, who issued the ruling.
Hurd said that the plaintiffs could not justly claim damages caused by nationwide emissions.
“Because Plaintiffs seek damages for alleged harms caused by interstate and international emissions and global warming, their claims cannot be governed by state law. Under our federal constitutional system, states cannot use their laws to resolve claims seeking redress for injuries allegedly caused by out-of-state and worldwide emissions,” Hurd said in the decision.
STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM NEWS–
Announced 2025 Hall of Fame Inductees
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum is thrilled to announce its 2025 Hall of Fame inductees, a distinguished group of nine individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of motorcycling and the Sturgis Rally. These honorees join hundreds of notable motorcyclists already enshrined in the Hall of Fame, recognized for their support of the motorcycle community, the Museum and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
The Class of 2025 represents a diverse range of achievements, from advocating for riders’ rights, building legendary engines, promoting the motorcycle industry and capturing the spirit of motorcycling through art and photography. This year’s inductees will be officially honored at the Hall of Fame Breakfast during the annual Sturgis Rally on Wednesday, August 8, 2025.
“The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum’s Hall of Fame is a testament to the rich history and vibrant culture of motorcycling,” said Paul “Fozzy” Fosdyck, Museum Board President. “The Class of 2025 embodies the spirit of innovation, passion, and community that makes motorcycling so special. We are honored to welcome these exceptional individuals into our Hall of Fame.”
The 2025 Hall of Fame inductees are:
Michael Lichter – Lifetime Achievement Award – For over four decades, Michael Lichter has captured the essence of motorcycling through his photography. He made his name as the principal photographer for Easyriders Magazine, and now with over 1200 magazine features and eleven books, his work continues to tell the story of the people, machines and the spirit of motorcycle culture, including the Sturgis Rally, which he’s photographed since 1979. He continues to showcase his work to fans worldwide, expanding and preserving the legacy of the biker culture.
Gary Gray: With nearly 30 years in motorcycling, Gary Gray’s contributions to Victory and Indian motorcycles have left a lasting impact on the industry. With a focus on engineering and product development, his skill and passion have allowed him to blend tradition with innovation to help revive and sustain these well-known brands.
His leadership in racing and technology has reshaped the motorcycle landscape.
Darren McKeag: Darren combines his love for motorcycles, painting, and tattooing to create stunning illustrations on tanks and helmets, and even large-scale paintings. Now a successful tattoo artist and studio owner, he’s also a humanitarian, frequently traveling worldwide to support the less fortunate. A longtime supporter of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum, Darren generously donates his art to fundraising events and shares his talent with the community.
Tom Motzko: Tom has been with Drag Specialties for 50 years, starting as a young motorcycle and car aficionado working in the warehouse in 1974. While working his way up in the company doing everything from picking parts to trade shows to catalogs, he became well known for his contributions in product development and vendor relations.
A longtime supporter of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum, Tom is deeply connected to the motorcycle community.
Grady Pfeiffer: Driven by his love of custom motorcycles and inspired by his friend Arlen Ness, Grady bought his first Harley in 1982, and then, just a few years later, founded GH Marketing. His thriving company represents worldwide brands in the V-twin aftermarket, while Grady leverages his industry knowledge as a consultant and a member of the MIC’s Aftermarket Committee.
Grady’s passion for custom bikes earned him membership and a board position in the respected Hamsters USA organization.
Berry Wardlaw: Berry Wardlaw is a legend in the motorcycle world. As the first student enrolled in the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute’s Harley-Davidson curriculum, he went on to work at several Harley dealerships before starting Accurate Engineering. Known as “The Wild Pan Man,” Berry’s expertise in creating and tuning Knucklehead and Panhead engines has earned him a star-studded customer list and widespread admiration in the motorcycle industry.
Charlie Gilmore – Freedom Fighter Award – Charlie’s passion for motorcycles ignited in the 1960s, leading to a lifetime of riding and advocacy. A Vietnam veteran and ordained minister, Charlie is the former national chaplain for the Sons of Silence and a founding member of ABATE of Iowa’s District 8.
His “Price of Freedom” presentation is legendary within the rights movement. Charlie has created v-twin choppers showcased internationally and restored hundreds of motorcycles displayed in museums around the country, including the Sturgis Museum.
Lillian Farrow – Kickstands Down Award – Lilly Farrow started A.D. Farrow Co. Harley-Davidson in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband Dale in 1912. After Dale’s death in the late 1920’s, Lilly, a mother of three young children, bravely took over the dealership, becoming the first woman to do so in America.
As a dedicated rider and racer, she established The Buckeye Motorcycle Club, America’s first uniformed motorcycle club, and organized hill climbs and the flat track races. Her perseverance and passion for motorcycling make her an inspiration for all.
Ray Tewksbury (Tampa Bay Ray/Rodeo Ray) – Kickstands Down Award – Rodeo Ray was a four-time Grand National Champion for the Easy Rider Rodeo. Known for his big heart and willingness to help others, Ray was a fixture at motorcycle events and charities, including the Love Ride and Rip’s Ride. His passion for motorcycling and his willingness to help the less fortunate are remembered by thousands in the riding community.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame honors those who have dedicated their lives to the world of motorcycling, preserving their stories and contributions for future generations. The Freedom Fighter Award recognizes an individual who is making a significant contribution in fighting for the rights of motorcycle riders. The Kickstands Down Award honors individuals posthumously.
The Museum’s Hall of Fame Breakfast takes place annually and is a highlight of the Sturgis Rally. The event celebrates the newest inductees to the Hall of Fame and recognizes those already enshrined. This year’s breakfast will take place at the Lodge at Deadwood on August 8, 2025.
The ticket sales are flying. I would be surprised if we have much left by the next board meeting. If you know of anyone who is waiting to buy them please have them call me or Lacey at 605-580-0794 ASAP!!
SUSPENSION TECHNOLOGIES HITS THE BEACH—
We’re excited to announce that we’ll be at Daytona Bike Week 2025 – and we’re bringing a special offer just for you!
Stop by the Suspension Technologies trailer in the Main Lot at Teddy Morse’s Destination Daytona to get FREE INSTALLATION on our Rear Shocks and Front Fork Cartridges during the event!
Here’s how it works:
- Visit our booth or give us a call to schedule a time to drop your bike off.
- Go enjoy the Daytona festivities while we install your new shocks and cartridges.
- Come back and get ready to experience the smoothest, most comfortable ride your Harley has ever had!
This offer is only available at the show, so don’t miss out!
Call 727-233-3610 to schedule your FREE Install Appointment.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Be The First To Get the New Softail Rear Shock!
The wait is over, and after many hours of testing and tweaking, we have what we believe is the greatest Softail Rear Shock ever produced! Visit us at Daytona Bike Week in the Main Lot at Destination Daytona and see it for yourself!
FREE INSTALLATION at Daytona Bike Week if you call in advance to schedule your Softail appointment: 727-233-3610
Feb 28 – March 9: Daytona Bike Week
Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson, Ormond Beach, FL
April 24-27: Gator Harley Spring Rally
Gator Harley-Davidson, Leesburg FL
May 9-18: Myrtle Beach Bike Week
Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson, Myrtle Beach, SC
June 14-22: Laconia Motorcycle Week
Hearts Turkey Farm-Main Parking Lot Next to
Laconia Harley-Davidson, Meredith, NH
*Aug 1-10: Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Sturgis, SD
*Tentative
September 18-22: Bourbon Bike Rally London, KY
October 10-18: TriketoberFest & BiketoberFest
Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson, Ormond Beach, FL
RIGHTS NEWS FROM THE NRA-–
This afternoon, the House Judiciary Committee passed House Bill 1222 by a vote of 11-1, and it will now advance to the House floor for a vote on Tuesday, February 18th. HB 1222 allows for firearms to be stored in vehicles on school grounds by permit holders.
Please contact your Representative by using the TAKE ACTION button below and urge them to SUPPORT HB 1222!
Additionally, the Senate passed Senate Bill 100, allowing carry on college campus by permit holders. The bill will now be transmitted to the House for committee assignment.
Please continue to check www.NRAILA.org and your email inbox for NRA-ILA alerts on the latest action items.
On Monday, February 10th, the House Commerce Committee unanimously passed Senate Bill 81, which will advance to the House floor TODAY, Tuesday, February 11.
The Senate State Affairs Committee passed Senate Bill 100, college campus carry, by a vote of 7-2, and now it, too, will be heard on the Senate floor TODAY, Tuesday, February 11.
Both bills will be voted on TODAY! Please use the TAKE ACTION button below to contact your legislators NOW and urge them to SUPPORT SB 81 and SB 100!
Senate Bill 81 will prohibit the use of firearm-specific Merchant Category Codes, which could be used to track firearm purchases and create a registry of lawful gun buyers. This is an important protection for gun owners, protecting private purchasing data from abuse by third parties. For more information click here.
Senate Bill 100 allows law-abiding gun owners to carry on the campus of a state institution of higher education.
Please continue to check www.NRAILA.org and your email inbox for NRA-ILA alerts on the latest action items. Rest assured that your NRA-ILA will continue to fight to promote and protect your right to keep and bear arms and hunting heritage.
If you would like to learn more about how you can get involved with NRA-ILA’s pro-Second Amendment efforts in South Dakota, please contact me at DGoble@nrailafrontlines.com.
Yours in Freedom,
Dallas Goble
NRA Institute for Legislative Action
https://www.nrailafrontlines.com
THERE I WAS MINDING MY OWN BUSINESS WHEN IT HAPPENED–
She called and all hell broke loose.
A bunch of us, including Scott Jacobs met at Scott Peterson’s secret shop in the Black Hills to ponder moving and setting up the Easyriders Streamliner in the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. We came up with a plan and went to breakfast. Ron Waldren will build a cool structure to pick it up. He needed to know how to balance it and Ellen Teresi sent me this image.
Ellen asked me if that was my shop with the streamliner. I said, “No,” but here are a couple of shots of my digs. Here’s my next project, a 1913 board track racer.
I need to put the Salt Torpedo back together. Irish Rich will give me a hand once he heals up.
Frankie sent me this old cover. My stroked Shovelhead was featured, my first feature.
Here’s Armond with the bike I’m hoping to buy.
I’m clearing out the dungeon under the Emporium in Sturgis. The bros are going to mud and paint. Gunner’s Lounge was next door, but the poster remains in the basement. I couldn’t bring myself to toss it.
I received this light yesterday. The card said something about an early BD gift. I knew it had to be Freddie Cuba.
The snow’s piling up, but it’s still not enough.
Shit is happening fast in America all around freedom, honesty and integrity. Keep riding free forever!
–Bandit
