Hey,
This is one of those days. Greece and Italy may tank, and suddenly our Congress is saying, “Fuck the politics, save the country.”
Ron Benfield, from Saddlemen, just returned from the Milan show. That show draws 500,000 attendees, including families and kids. So the country may go BK, but motorcycling won’t.
I’m going to work with Saddlemen next week on a seat for my Mudflap girl FXR. Hang on for the Wire Plus tech and the Saddlemen surprise tech. We have some seriously exclusive material headed your way on Bikernet:
VAGABOND DEAL OF THE WEEK–Hello Everyone- Hope this finds you doing well and warmer than most- I am sending this info to all my friends- My one of a kind custom Vagabond Chopper that was built for the ROT Rally is up for sale- this bike is a true collectors ride, appreciating the work that goes into any build like this that is rideable. I have attached pictures to ask if you know of anyone including yourself that may be interested please let me know. I hate to let it go, but I have to build the next one that is already in my brain. This bike has so many cool features –
This bike has so many accomplishments- ROT RALLY FAVORITE- AMD WORLD SHOW COMPETITOR-SEMINOLE HARD ROCK ROADHOUSE FEATURED BIKE 2009 – CYCLE SOURCE MAGAZINE FEATURE MAY 2010- EASYRIDERS TOUR FEATURED BUILDER BIKE 2010-2011- LONESTAR RALLY DISPLAY BIKE 2010 – YOU WILL NEVER SEE ANOTHER BIKE LIKE THIS- EVER!!!
•Custom Vagabond “V-Hive” Oil Tank ( only 2 ever made and installed ) made from twin-cam cylinders with custom grooved and o-ringed piston top removable caps-
•Foot controls made from “N” grind cams- fold-up, spaced out -welded and timed correctly with lifter clutch and brake pedals (YES IT IS A FOOT CLUTCH/JOCKEY SHIFT)
•Foot Clutch Linkage made from a rocker arm/shaft and pushrod- connected to a new style five speed trans with an old style five speed door ( All SPUTHE)
•Upswept Thunder header mounted with a Harley style valve package – totally custom
•Custom Vagabond fork stops made from jet ski valve packages- when you get to coil bind the valve is completely open
•Rocker Arm fender mounts
•Safety Wire Style rear fender mounts with custom Star Taillight
•Center stand is made from a softtail swing arm with a kick start return spring for action and a Harley shift peg for tab- AGAIN SUPER CUSTOM
•Custom Jeffrey Phipps Custom Seat
•Jay Brake hand brake
•Custom cables and lines ( Black)
•Custom Texas Flag and Wrinkle Finish with scalloped dish metalwork-
•Custom Battery mount and set up with electric start
My cell number is 954-465-8164 and also if you know of anyone ever in need of an elite mechanic for their fleet that comes to them- keep us in mind. My husband and I have started a unique service for some cool people and celebs- we have references and can service/repair any motorcycle they may have.
–Athena ” Chickie ” Ransom
Vagabond Chopper Company
4700 N. Dixie Hwy., Suite 11
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33334
(954) 360-0075 Fax: (954) 642-8658
www.vagabondchoppers.com
www.vagabondchickie.com
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT VOCABULARY LESSON–askance uh-SKANS, adverb:
1. With suspicion, mistrust, or disapproval.
2. With a side glance; sidewise; obliquely.
People had been looking askance at him for as long as he could remember, and he thought it was time to put a stop to that.
— Richard Russo, The Risk Pool
Grasping this essential of life in a big city he sees the place not as a confronted whole, but continually askance.
— V.S. Pritchett, The Complete Essays
The origin of askance has not been verifiably determined. It is possibly a variant of the Old Norse word askew meaning “to one side.”
BRING A TOY, and join The Hells Angels San Fernando Valley at SFV’s Clubhouse Sunday December 4
DON’T FORGET: Hells Angels BERDOO TOY RUN, Sunday December 11.
You can ‘Ho-Ho-Ho’ 2 Sunday’s in a row!
THE TATTOO OF THE WEEK– I average about 10 people a week at events taking a pic of my Tattoo on the back of my head. Lol. Maybe a magazine next????
–Rogue
THE BOSS OF CUSTOM CHROME RESIGNS–November 17, 2011: Custom Chrome today announces the resignation of Holger Mohr as President and CEO of DAE –IL USA, Inc. dba Custom Chrome effective immediately. KC Cho will assume the position of CEO in the interim.
Please direct all media inquiries to Brian Marion @ (408) 825-5878.
CALIFA TO RECEIVE MORE GRANTS– The Folsom Police Department announced that is has been awarded an $180,000 traffic safety grant for a yearlong program aimed a preventing deaths and injuries on the city’s roadways.
The grant awarded by the California Office of Traffic Safety will help fund equipment purchases and special traffic enforcement measures.
Grant-funded activities will specifically target speed and intersection violations that are the greatest contributors to injury collisions in the city, according to a Police Department news release.
The department also will target impaired drivers and those driving without driver’s licenses, through saturation patrols and DUI/driver’s license checkpoints. Officials said research shows that crashes involving alcohol drop by an average of 20 percent when well-publicized checkpoints are conducted often enough.
Grant funding will allow three officers to receive specialized training to detect drivers impaired by legal and illegal drugs. The training will provide for on-the-spot assessment of drivers suspected of impairment.
For the third consecutive year, the department also will have three special motorcycle safety enforcement operations. Officials say motorcycle fatalities have dropped in California following a decadelong rise. In 2010, 353 motorcyclists were killed statewide, a 37 percent drop from the all-time high for California in 2008.
During the next 12 months, Folsom police will conduct specialized enforcement efforts, with extra officers patrolling areas and events where motorcycle crashes and incidents have occurred. Officers will crack down on violations by motorcyclists and other motorists that result in many of the motorcycle collisions, injuries and deaths.
–Rogue
Sturgis Freedom Fighters
NEW BIKERNET SPONSOR COMING–Starting a Revolution! Revolution Cycle Manufacturing designs and builds front-running custom motorcycles and high performance aftermarket parts. At our state of the art 12,000 sq ft facility in Marietta, GA, Michael Kamalian and his team, which consist of Justin Lowe our lead machinist and many other members of the squad, draw from the latest technology available to create cutting edge motorcycles and parts, as well as a few hot rods.
We have a collection of the latest in CNC equipment as well as waterjet cutters and rapid prototyping machines. We are equipped to design on-demand for clients and create products that are well engineered, tested, and define originality. Our portfolio includes one-off custom bikes, hot rods, and a catalog of kick ass carbon fiber, steel, and billet parts for any customization.
Because of our rare and unique styling approach, we have been approached to design parts for well-known motorcycle designers such as Rodger Goldammer (Goldammer Cycle Works), Russell Mitchell (Exile Cycles), Brian Klock (Klock Werks), and many others. Our products have been showcased on Discovery Channel’s Biker Build-Off, Speed’s American Thunder, and by top motorcycle press and magazines such as Cycle World, Barnett’s, Hot Bike, American Bagger/Cycle, Bikernet.com and many others both national and international.
We are the foremost experts for fuel-injected motorcycles. We were the first and are the best tuning center in the state. We are an authorized Tuning Link center for Dynojet’s Power Commander as well as Daytona Twin Tec’s line of units and even HD’s race tuner. We also deal with carburetors as well and have a full line of hop ups for them also.
Revolution Cycle Manufacturing is a federally licensed manufacturer. Our bikes come with new, clean titles and are easily registered and insured unlike most other shops that claim to be builders.
Revolution Manufacturing
1435 Field Park Circle Bldg 100
Marietta, GA 30066
770-420-9191
www.RevolutionSpeed.com
DARKHORSE TWIN CAM LOWER ENDS–We are working with DarkHorse to rebuild Ray C. Wheeler’s lower end for his street hot rod. Nobody does it like DarkHorse:
“Here is a photo of our proprietary balancer,” said John E. Dahmer, “engineered to dynamically balance each individual flywheel to give our dealers the most accurate balance you can achieve in a common crankpin, V-Twin style flywheel on the market today.
Here is another photo of our case simulator we utilize to measure run-out measurements before they are installed in cases at our dealers.
–John E Dahmer
Hoban Cycle GM
Home of Darkhorse Crankworks & Hoban Brothers Racing
4 time National Roadracing Champions
P – 920.726.4990 F – 920.726.4991
www.hobancycle.com
www.darkhorsecrankworks.com
www.jghbracing.com
THE BEST NON PARTISAN POLITICAL JOKE EVER!!!!!!!!!–A driver is stuck in a traffic jam on the highway. Nothing is moving.
Suddenly, a man knocks on the window. The driver rolls down the window and asks, “What’s going on?”
“Terrorists have kidnapped Congress, and are asking for a $10 million dollar ransom. Otherwise, they are going to douse them all in gasoline and set them on fire. We are going from car to car, taking up a collection.”
“How much is everyone giving, on average?” the driver asks.
The man replies, “About a gallon
–from the OK Hamster
THIS JUST IN FROM THE BIKERNET TICKET COUNTER– A DC airport ticket agent offers some examples of ‘why’ our country is in trouble:
1. I had a New Hampshire Congresswoman (Carol Shea-Porter) ask for an aisle seat so that
her hair wouldn’t get messed up by being near the window. (On an airplane!)
2. I got a call from a Kansas Congressman’s (Moore) staffer (Howard Bauleke), who wanted to go to Capetown. I started to explain the length of the flight and the passport information, and then he interrupted me with, ”I’m not trying to make you look stupid,
but Capetown is in Massachusetts ….”
Without trying to make him look stupid, I calmly explained, ”Cape Cod is in Massachusetts , Capetown is in Africa ”
his response — click.
–Buckshot
FASTENERS OF THE WEEK–Hose clamps. These are the kind of hose clamps used at the factory. They are clean and easy to install. The drawback is that once installed they are somewhat permanent. You destroy them during removal. They are inexpensive and run in a variety of sizes from Air Fasteners.
There is a trick to ordering. You need to shove your oil or gas line onto the spigot and precisely measure the diameter with a set of calipers. Different nipples and tube sizes can vary the size of the clamp, but you’ll dig them once they are installed. Super easy to install.
–Ray at Air Fasteners
626-392-4466
www.AFChromebolts.com
THE SEARCH FOR EMPIRE FRAMES– I wanted to get in contact with Bill Ford from Empire Frames.
I built one of his bikes a few years back and he had plates to adjust the axel position. I had to put a new chain on and need a new set of axel plates.
Any help would be great, as they have disappeared off the internet.
–John
jwelbourn@gmail.com
SAMSON INTRODUCES THE LEGEND SERIES “LONGHORNS”–
Brea, CA- Samson recently introduced their new “Longhorns” exhaust, part of their Legend Series (two individual pipes on one side) for most Harley-Davidson Softails. Every exhaust manufactured by Samson is dyno tested before going into mass production for the ultimate in performance. This high performance exhaust system has been designed and tuned to produce maximum horsepower, torque and awesome sound. The removable 2 ½” massive one-piece heat shields are pre-installed and the system is ready to bolt on right out of the box.
Samson has over 675 different styles to choose from and they have all styles available for Harley’s new 2012 model lineup.
Additional Features and Benefits:
• Fits 2012 Harley Davidson Softail Motorcycles, 2006 and earlier models require O2 sensor plugs, purchased separately
• Two stepped high performance system produces up to 20% more horsepower
• Available with massive 2 1/2″ one-piece full coverage removable heat shields
• Mounting hardware included
•Equipped with 1 3/4″ diameter x 10″ long removable baffles
•Available in luxurious chrome or “sinister” black ceramic (special request)
•Limited 1 year warranty
•MSRP: $749.95
*$674.95 (*If ordering directly off of the internet)
• Don’t forget about Bikernet.com viewers special 15% DISCOUNT…order direct from Samson and mention Bikernet.com to qualify
• Listen to the sound of Samson’s exhausts right on their website
• FREE SHIPPING until the end of the year
Check out Samson Exhaust’s entire product line at www.samsonusa.com or contact them directly at (888) 572-6766; Samson Exhaust, 655 Tamarack Ave., Brea, CA 92821…email them at info@samsonusa.com.
THE DYNA S QUANDRY— In the busted Salt Shaker, we replaced the Mallory ignition with Biker’s Choice advance weights, an Accurate Engineering distributor body and a Dyna S ignition from Biker’s Choice. The problem is that the Dyna S was designed for a cone motor, where the rotor turns counter-clockwise, whereas the a distributor rotor turns clockwise. S&S makes a gear that will reverse the rotation, but Dyna S said to switch the wires on the single-fire coils. Then the advance aspect reared it’s confusing head.
The timing will advance as the rotor spins in the direction of rotation. It should not advance in either direction. Or, at least I have never seen an
advance assembly that would. A counter clockwise rotation is a typical Shovel or Evo rotation, so I would suggest starting over and wire and time the Dyna-S as per the installation
manual.
–Larry Nelson
Technical Support
Dynatek
1-800-928-DYNA (3962)
http://www.dynaonline.com
I have one more quandary. This system uses advance weights. We tested them and the weights expand whether in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. So, I thought we were cool. However, the rotor advances (when the weights expand) in a counter-clockwise direction. It doesn’t matter which way the distributor turns. So, my question is: Is it advancing the timing either way? In one case it moves the timing against the rotation of the distributor, in the other case it is rotating with the direction. Let me know your thoughts.
–Wrench
LIL’ JOE LEATHERS FOR THE HOLIDAYS–Did you know that Mike and Lori from Lil’ Joes makes all the Sons of Anarchy Leathers. We have received more calls and e-mail from folks who need to order for the holidays. Now is the time to get started, especially if you want anything special worked into your leather vest.
MOTORCYCLE DEALER SUES H-D OVER SALES RESTRICTIONS–
A Harley-Davidson dealership in St. Paul, Minn., has sued the motorcycle company for what it says are unfair restrictions on international sales and business through websites.
In a lawsuit filed in federal court in Minnesota, St. Paul Harley-Davidson complained about new restrictions that Harley set on methods for selling motorcycle parts, accessories and clothing. The dealership argued it was losing money and that its business was in jeopardy as a result of the restrictions put in place in August. It claimed to have earned $8 million a year in revenue from 2008 through 2010 from what are now forbidden sales.
“These new policies are highly controversial and may be arguable. We certainly do not feel it is fair when we’ve spent years building a customer-serviceoriented business to promote the brand worldwide,” Tom Giannetti, president of St. Paul Harley-Davidson, said on his website.
“These changes would deprive (the dealership) of literally millions of dollars of annual revenues, thereby jeopardizing its ability to remain in business,” the lawsuit noted.
Harley-Davidson dealers can no longer sell Harley-Davidson parts and accessories to any customer outside the United States, according to the lawsuit. Also, beginning Jan. 1, 2012, U.S. dealers may not sell new parts or accessories on third-party websites, such as eBay and Amazon.com.
The policy revisions illegally alter the company’s franchise agreement with dealers, the lawsuit claims.
Harley-Davidson, which strongly protects its brand, doesn’t see it that way. “We disagree with the premise of the lawsuit,” said company spokeswoman Maripat Blankenheim, declining to comment further.
St. Paul Harley-Davidson has been in business since the 1940s and says it has a company-approved website.
“For the time being, St. Paul Harley-Davidson will continue selling and shipping our products overseas. However, this policy could change at any time,” Giannetti said. “Because this situation is so tentative, we urge all of our overseas customers to place orders without delay.” For years, many motorcycle dealerships have sold parts, accessories, cloth- ing and bikes on third-party websites such as eBay.
But that doesn’t make it a good idea, said Chaz Hastings, owner of Milwaukee Harley-Davidson.
“Once you start offering a wholesale process to the public, it can diminish the value of the brand and the customer service that people expect,” Hastings said.
Some dealerships have used websites to sell off large volumes of parts and accessories, or to sell things that languished on their shelves. The profit margins are low in that practice, Hastings said.
“I would guarantee you that some of those guys were losing money,” he said about Harley-Davidson dealers who sold through third-party websites.
Also, if someone bought a Harley-Davidson part or accessory online, they sometimes expected their local dealership to handle any warranty issues — regardless of where the sale was from.
“These sales end up coming back to the dealer, and the company, has problems,” Hastings said.
Some people have traveled thousands of miles to buy a Harley-Davidson motorcycle in Milwaukee. It’s probably not cheaper here, although you may be able to negotiate a better price because there are more area dealerships to choose from.
Milwaukee Harley-Davidson will pay a customer’s one-way airfare here if they buy a bike from them. They also pay for a stay at The Iron Horse Hotel, tickets to the Harley-Davidson Museum and for other perks such as dinner at a nightclub.
The out-of-town buyer pays full price for the new bike, and the dealership recovers part of its costs by selling accessories, clothing and other items often purchased with a new motorcycle.
The number of bikes sold through the fly-and-buy program isn’t large enough to hurt dealerships in other states, according to Hastings, and it doesn’t reduce the dealership’s obligation to service the bike after the sale.
“We pay a premium to have a dealership. And there are a lot of things expected from us,” Hastings said.
By Rick Barrett of the Journal Sentinel
BIKERNET BLACK MARKET DEAL OF THE WEEK–In addition to their standard Classic Triumph calendar, for 2012, Wolfgang Publications brings you this full color, twelve month Classic Norton calendar. Produced on heavy gloss paper, this new celebration of all things Norton measures a full sixteen inches across and twenty four inches top to bottom when fully open.
Don’t look for bikini chicks – this is a motorcycle calendar. Lust instead over these twelve shining examples of Norton style. January starts the year off right with a Norton Manx, followed by an Atlas, a Hi-Rider, a ’75 Mark III, a John Player Special, and a Dominator. The year ends with a true classic, an 850 Commando from 1974.
The Norton calendars are in stock, so order yours now for only $15.95. Wolfgang does charge shipping of $6.00 per US calendar order – so we can send them priority mail and ensure safe and timely delivery.
THE 12th ANNUAL V-Twin EXPO delivers top industry exhibitors, show specials,
plus tools to increase your profitability.
All under one roof!
“Renegade Wheels has grown to be a market leader in the V-Twin industry. The V-Twin Expo has played a major role in exposing Renegade’s latest designs to our CORE customers. I believe we could not have had the success we’ve experienced without being at this show. The V-Twin Expo offers the best opportunity to network with existing customers as well as
developing relationships with new ones.”
–Chuck Frederick – Renegade Wheels, Inc. 
2012 V-Twin Expo Exclusive Seminars
Bagger Market Review
Patent Law Changes and How They Impact You
Make Noise on Audio Sales
Additional seminars with exciting topics to be announced later this year.
Register NOW – it’s “free” until January 20, 2012
EVO/RUBBER MOUNT SPORTSTER CHOPPER CHASSIS’–
Paughco is now offering two different style rigid frames for EVO Sportsters. The Single Loop Rigid Bobber frame is designed for 1986-2003 Sportster engines and features a distinctive 1 ½-inch single loop down tube and 1 1/8-inch lower frame rails. A variety of rake, leg and stretch dimensions are available starting at just $986.95. For 2004 and later Rubber Mount engines Paughco offers a no hassle chopper chassis that accepts all of the OEM mounting hardware. Available in a number of popular rakes and stretches the frames have a 1 ½-inch backbone and 1 ¼-inch downtubes.
Prices on the Rubber Mount Chopper Chassis start at $1,295.95 For complete details call direct to 775-246-5738 or catch them on line at www.paughco.com
LONG BEACH POLICE RECEIVE $300,000 traffic safety grant–
Funds will increase patrols, special enforcement operations.
LONG BEACH — The Long Beach Police Department has won a grant for more than a quarter of a million dollars to fund traffic safety enforcement programs and the increase of patrols, it was announced Tuesday. The $300,000 grant comes from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
It will be used to fund programs aimed at reducing the number of people killed in traffic incidents. The programs will include motorcycle safety patrols, DUI and Drivers License checkpoints, DUI saturation patrols, red light enforcement and speed enforcement, police officials said Tuesday.
“We are grateful to the Office of Traffic Safety for awarding us this grant, which will lend vital support towards commuter safety,” Long Beach Police Chief Jim McDonnell said. “In these fiscally challenging times, this will allow us to enhance our enforcement and outreach efforts to prevent and reduce injury traffic collisions and protect lives.”
A key focus of the grant-funded programs will be DUI/Drivers License checkpoints, police officials said.
The checkpoints, which are highly visible and widely publicized, are meant to deter impaired driving rather than increase arrests, officials said.
Research shows crashes involving alcohol drop by an average of 20 percent when well publicized checkpoints are conducted often enough, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And checkpoints have provided the most effective
– documented results of any of the DUI enforcement strategies, while yielding considerable cost savings of $6 for every $1 spent, NHTSA leaders said. The grant will also fund the training of 10 officers on ways to detect drivers who are impaired and under the influence of legal and illegal drugs.
In addition, there will be four motorcycle safety enforcement operations, which are among a number of specialized enforcement efforts that will see extra officers on patrol and that are planned for the next 12 months.
Damn, it will be tougher to ride through Long Beach.–Bandit
While motorcyclist in Michigan are trying to get the Mandatory Helmet Law changed to Freedom of Choice Fred MaHaffey did more than just go to a rally at the Capitol.
He chose to ride without a helmet and get a ticket. He then proceeded to Go to Court and Won!!!!
While trying to change the law through the legislature it is Favorable to also do it through the court system.
The judge’s decision can be presented to the legislature and help the repeal the law but it also means that that Anyone who wants to Ride Without A Helmet in that Courts Jurisdiction can use the same defense and the judge would rule the same.
If enough riders follow Fred’s example it is Not Unlikely the judge will order No More Helmet Tickets be issued in his or her jurisdiction.
Hopefully others will follow in other areas.
I have been informed that the Brief that Fred used will be available to those getting a ticket and willing to take it to court.
This just goes to show you; You Can Win if You Stand Up For Your Rights.
–ROGUE
On the ride to the Capitol at the Abate Sept. Freedom Rally Our Region 21 and B.O.L.T Member Fred MaHaffey received a No Helmet Ticket in Clinton County 65A District Court.
He choose not to back down and pay the fine of $100.00, but to fight it in Court. At some cost to himself.
He filed a Brief ( Supplied by Dondi At Katman’s Office, Thank You) with the Court, stating that the Helmet law was not Enforceable because the Michigan State police does not approve helmets and therefore, does not implement MCL 257.658 ( Michigan’s Helmet Law ) and therefore he is not required to wear a Helmet.
Today (11/14/11) Fred went to court by himself (without an Attorney) to have his case heard at a formal hearing.
The Prosecutor presented his case and the the judge referred to Fred’s brief, and Ruled that Fred was correct that the MSP had not done there job correctly and dismissed the case.
Fred walked out of the court one proud ( Insert your own word ).
Fred had the fortitude to stand up to the system and beat it.
Way to go Fred !
“Kamots”
THE DON JUAN FROM METALSPORT WHEELS– Metalsport Wheels is at it again with Don Juan. Offering pure seduction in a 30-inch 3-D wheels. The new Don Juan Torque is as sexy as they come. Illustrious Chrome plating accentuates every curve of the torqued five-spoke design, right down to where the spoke molds to the radius of the rim.
Choose your size: 30″, 26″, 23″, 21″ and 18″.
METALSPORT WHEELS INC.
Southgate, California, USA
Tel:562 776 9594
Fax:562 776 9635
www.metalsportwheels.com
H-D GOLF BUGGY RESTORED– My Harley Golf Buggy is on display at the Presidents Cup in Australia – It is a 1977 – I paid $500 for it as a wreck and I spent $17,000 restoring it to near new
Not many realise that Harley-Davidson invented the “drive on” golf cart – the compliance plate shows No 4.
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY CLASS STUDY– An economics professor at a the Bikernet U made a statement that he had never failed a single student before, but had recently failed an entire class. That class had insisted that Obama’s socialism worked and that no one would be poor and no one would be rich, a great equalizer.
The professor then said, “OK, we will have an experiment in this class on Obama’s plan.”
All grades would be averaged and everyone would receive the same grade, so no one would fail and no one would receive an A.
After the first test, the grades were averaged and everyone got a B. The students who studied hard were upset and the students who studied little were happy. As the second test rolled around, the students who studied little had studied even less and the ones who studied hard decided they wanted a free ride too so they studied little.
The second test average was a D! No one was happy.
When the 3rd test rolled around, the average was an F.
As the tests proceeded, the scores never increased as bickering, blame and name-calling all resulted in hard feelings and no one would study for the benefit of anyone else.
All failed, to their great surprise, and the professor told them that socialism would also ultimately fail because when the reward is great, the effort to succeed is great, but when government takes all the reward away, no one will try or want to succeed.
Could not be any simpler than that.
–from Vern
MARKUS CUFF SHOOTS U.S. CHOPPERS NEW RIDE–It looks like this vintage jewel will be featured in Iron Works magazine, then on Bikernet in the near future.
U.S. Choppers
“
“Are they afraid of me? Do they fear my knowledge?
It doesn’t matter which; they leave me alone. And three of those PDs are considered Gestapo-over-the-top by everyone.
“I guess the discussion about how the cops always hassle and mistreat us makes us feel important, or makes it look like we’re more of a bad-ass.”
–Mark Temple
BOLT of California
Guerrilla Lawfare
Repeal It Or Feel It
(916) 402-7981
BIOFUELS WILL ROCK THE WORLD IF WE CAN HANG ON LONG ENOUGH–US Navy tests biofuel to power ship in its largest alternative fuel demonstration to date.
SAN DIEGO — The U.S. Navy launched its largest alternative fuel test to date on Wednesday, pumping 20,000 gallons of algae-based fuel into a destroyer ship that will embark on a 20-hour trip along the California coast.
The success of the Paul H. Foster ship’s overnight trip Wednesday from San Diego to Port Hueneme is vital to the Navy’s plan to unveil next year a small carrier strike group of small ships, destroyers, cruisers, aircraft, submarines and a carrier run on alternative fuels, including nuclear power. By 2016, the Navy wants to deploy what it calls a “Great Green Fleet” of nuclear vessels, hybrid electric ships and other ships and aircraft powered by biofuels.
The Navy is investing more than $500 million in the budding biofuel industry with the hope that it will be able to supply enough alternative fuel so the maritime branch can cut its dependence on fossil fuel by 50 percent over the next decade, said Cmdr. James Goudreau, director of the Navy Energy Coordination Office.
The biofuel that went into the destroyer was a 50-50 blend of petroleum and a hydro-processed algal oil produced by San Francisco-based Solazyme, which has been changing the genetic makeup of algae to construct a new generation of fuels.
The Navy is working with dozens of companies that have been submitting a slew of alternative fuel samples made from everything from chicken parts and mustard seeds to microorganisms and municipal solid waste.
“We want to buy fuel made from something other than petroleum that will drop in and work seamlessly for our warfighters,” said Goudreau, standing in front of the Foster as it was being fueled Wednesday at a San Diego Naval station under blue skies.
Commercial aviation is increasingly turning to biofuels to fuel its planes.
The Navy has tested algae-based fuel on small ships and individual aircrafts but the Foster is the first destroyer to run on it. No changes were made to the ship’s engine to prepare it for the biofuel. Experts will be monitoring its temperature gauges and propulsion, how it runs at different speeds and how much fuel it expends as it chugs along California’s Pacific coast.
The ship made the same trip earlier from Port Hueneme to San Diego on petroleum. Naval officials will use data from that trip to compare how the ship performs when running on biofuel.
By Associated Press, Wednesday, November 16, 3:10 PM
–from Ray Russell
BIKERNET/QUICK THROTTLE THAILAND MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURE MAY STILL BE A GO–I am working something out as we speak. I am designing a trip for the same time period, and would love to bring one or two of you guys along. Will follow up asap!
If the TAT can’t help…..we’ll try find someone who can!
New Blog yesterday – for anyone who loves Thailand and motorcycling – this is for you: http://tinyurl.com/bvjczcp
Best in adventure,
Daniel and the Team at Smiling Albino
dan@smilingalbino.com
Bangkok Tel: 662-718-9560 – Direct: 668-1-171-0778 – Fax: 662-718-9562
Calgary: 403-668-9455 – New York: 917-421-9974
San Francisco: 415-839-5181 – London: 0207-096-1891
USA toll-free 1-877-THAIWAY
This time… why not see a different part of the world, differently?
Building on the success of our favorite motorcycle trips in Thailand, including Issan Steel Horses (below), our next great motorcycle adventure will be available to Smiling Albino guests in spring 2012: exploring the remote northern Thai province of Nan, where stunning roads along the Mekong River and through winding mountain passes lead to charming, boutique hotels, a picturesque golf course, and rarely visited historical attractions. Stay tuned for images from the maiden voyage of this amazing adventure that SA co-founder Daniel Frasier was leading in October 2011!
LIFESTYLE DEAL OF THE WEEK, 2004 ROAD GLIDE–HIT THE ROAD IN STYLE! ONLY $10,995.00!– Here’s a proven performer! This Road Glide is ready to take you where ever and when ever you want to go! It’s got a powerful 88 cubic inch motor, 5-speed transmission, 10″ handlebars, chrome forks, Screamin’ Eagle exhaust, highway pegs, chrome disc brakes, Arlen Ness air cleaner and much more! Like all of LifeStyle Cycles pre-owned Harleys, this bike has been thoroughly tested and inspected by a LifeStyle Cycles technician after undergoing a rigorous 38-point motorcycle inspection.
SUPER GAS MERC AIR CLEANER BY PERFORMANCE MACHINE– Performance Machine does not believe in resting on our laurels, preferring instead to push the envelope with new designs and products. The fact is front and center in our ongoing quest to improve and expand upon our line of air cleaners, and we are proud to present our latest offering: the Super Gas Merc Air Cleaner. The new Super Gas Merc Air Cleaner cruises firmly into nostalgia territory, adding some hot rod flair to the styling of our original Super Gas Air Cleaner. With clean lines and more curves than a pin-up, this piece features ribbed concentric circles and the Performance Machine logo machined into the center. Equipped with a K&N air filter, the MERC offers optimal air flow and more horsepower than the stock alternative.
Competitively priced at $419.95, this gorgeous air cleaner is CNC-machined from billet aluminum with built-in crank case breathers featuring chrome hardware and is available in Chrome, Contrast Cut, and the Black Ops finish.
For more information, please contact Performance Machine at 800-479-4037 or visit www.performancemachine.com.
–Kelli Murrow
HERE IS THE THURSDAY DEAL FROM THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS! A 1992 SOFTAIL CUSTOM! Carb jet kit, Screamin’ Eagle air cleaner, New battery, Adjustable rear suspension, Badlander seat, Vance & Hines exhaust, 22k on the clock. A clean bike for $7200! CHECK OUT THE BIKERNET CLASSIFIEDS, WHERE THE ADVENTURE IS JUST WAITING TO BEGIN!
–MIKE the STEALTH
http://bikernet.sprocketlist.com/Softail/2373011/1992-Softail-Custom.html
JAMES’ 40-PIECE CAP/PLUG MAP SENSOR SEAL KIT–Here’s a very cool kit everyone needs around the garage. No matter if you’re working on your bike, car, truck or just around the house, James new 40 piece assortment of Caps/Plugs and MAP Sensor seals has a variety of uses.
MAP sensor seals are molded silicone for excellent durability and positive seal. James item number JGI-CPK retails for just $24.95 and can be ordered direct by calling direct to 775-246-2220 or catch them on line at www.jamesgaskets.com.
Dealer inquiries invited.
HOLIDAY PARTY TECH TIP– We were dressed and ready to go out for the New Year’s Eve Party. We turned on a night light, turned the answering machine on, covered our pet parakeet and put the cat in the backyard.
We phoned the local cab company and requested a taxi. The taxi arrived and we opened the front door to leave the house. As we walked out the door, the cat we had put out in the yard, scooted back into the house. We didn’t want the cat shut in the house because she always tries to eat the bird. My wife went on out to the taxi, while I went back inside to get the cat. The cat ran upstairs, with me in hot pursuit.
Waiting in the cab, my wife didn’t want the driver to know that the house would be empty for the night, so she explained to the taxi driver that I would be out soon, saying ‘He’s just going upstairs to say Good-bye to my mother.’
A few minutes later, I got into the cab. ‘Sorry I took so long,’ I said, as we drove away. ‘That stupid bitch was hiding under the bed. I had to poke her ass with a coat hanger to get her to come out! She tried to take off, so I grabbed her by the neck. Then I had to wrap her in a blanket to keep her from scratching me. But it worked! I hauled her fat ass downstairs and threw her out into the back yard! She’d better not shit in the vegetable garden again!’
The silence in the cab was deafening.
–from Irving Marsh
DOWCO GUARDIAN WEATHERALL PLUS MOTORCYCLE COVERS FROM BIKER’S CHOICE–It’s getting to be that time of year for the bikes to be stored away (for some of us). These heavy-duty polyester covers, with special Color-Lok fabric treatment, helps prevents fading and the exclusive ClimaShield Plus fabric protection helps repels water. Waterproof with heat-sealed, taped seams and Moisture Guard Vent System lets moisture escape and the Aluminized heat shields allow immediate use after riding. Interior liner protects windshield Sewn elastic shock cord and under-bike web strap Sewn-in grommets allow use of a cable lock (lock not included).
New sewn-in pockets allow use of Guardian® Alarm for added security (sold separately). Comes in a convenient storage bag and has a Manufacturer’s Lifetime Warranty.
Available in sizes Medium to XXX-large, the two pictured here retail for
$104.95.
For more information, visit www.bikerschoice.com, or visit your local
Biker’s Choice Dealer.
Happy Riding!!
–Carmen
BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER WARNING–With the holiday season coming up, parties and gatherings are sure to be part of your social calendar. As you make the rounds, you can help minimize empty calories by being aware of unhealthy drinks to avoid.
* Eggnog: Made with milk, cream, sugar and eggs, eggnog can pack up to 460 calories in an eight-ounce serving – not including calories from alcohol. Think of it as an indulgent dessert and limit yourself during the holidays; sip it slowly to savor the taste.
* Seasonal Cocktails:Watch your overall alcohol consumption during the holidays as its calories can add up after just a few glasses. Be especially aware of beverages that contain added sugars, creams and other unhealthy fats, such as:
o White Russians. This cream-and-Kahlua concoction can have as much as 460 calories in an eight-ounce serving.
o Hot buttered rum. Hot melted butter, rum and brown sugar make this holiday classic top out at around 350 calories per eight-ounce serving.
o Tom and Jerry. A “hot-rod” version of eggnog, this combination of eggs, milk, rum and spices often has between 340 and 460 calories per eight-ounce serving.
D&D POWERS UP THE BLACKLINE–The Blackline is a custom-production motorcycle in Harley-Davidson’s Dark Custom family. Designed for back-to-the-basics times, Blackline adds more fuel to the Dark Custom movement that young riders have embraced in record numbers. And D&D is providing the performance.
D&D has just completed the 2012 Softail. D&D’s desire and passion is to create high performance exhaust pipes for Harley, cruisers, choppers, bobbers and custom bikes. D&D pipes increase performance, quality and design.
Performance – D&D designs pipes to provide power off idle and in the passing zone. An upgrade of a pipe and a free-flowing air cleaner will deliver the goods.
Get all the details at www.danddexhaust.com.
ILLUSIONS CYCLES HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE– RAIN or SHINE! Visit our newly remodeled Showroom & Boutique.
~~ KID FRIENDLY EVENT ~~
BIKERNET INTERNATIONAL EDITOR FINAL SEMA SHOTS–Hang on for Art Hall’s next bevy of babes and fine iron.
–Quick Throttle Magazine
THE INCOMPARABLE “SILHOUETTE” BY LE PERA–Game changer, ground breaking, trend setting, these are just a few of the accolades given to Le Pera’s Silhouette line over the years. In 2012 Le Pera will be celebrating their 40th Anniversary. What better way to celebrate, then remind everyone of Le Pera’s most popular seat lines ever.
Clean, low, and curvaceous the Silhouette has the lines your ride deserves. Whether it is the full length, solo, 2 up, or Deluxe there’s a bitchin’ Silhouette out there for each and every enthusiast!
Visit the complete Le Pera line up at www.lepera.com or contact your local dealer.
WOMEN RIDERS HOLIDAY CENTRAL— It’s that time of year when companies come to WRN to promote their products to women riders, knowing women are in the holiday buying mood.
So welcome Active Wear 4 Active Chicks and CSC Motorcycles, two companies who want you to buy from them. We also welcome back Rider Insurance–they cater to women riders.
Thank you for responding to my request last time and helping us get more than 3,000 “Likes” on our Facebook page. We made it!
Regards ~ Genevieve Schmitt, Founder/Editor, Women Riders Now
DRIVER ACCUSED OF DELIBERATELY HITTING A MOTORCYCLE– A motorcycle rider and his passenger were hospitalized today with serious injuries following a crash in which a motorist allegedly ran the bike off the road in an apparent road rage incident, right in front of police in Temecula, officials said.
Brandon Vald was arrested and booked into the Southwest Detention Center – not far from the crash scene – on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon but there was no record on him at the County Jail today.
Temecula police were running a speed monitoring operation at Nicolas Road, at Via Venecia, about 5:15 p.m. Friday, when they spotted three motorcycles heading East on Nicolas Road, sheriff’s Sgt. Mark Leggett said.
Deputies then saw a gray 2007 Saturn Vu drive up fast behind the motorcycles, swerve into the lane in which the bikes were traveling and strike one of them, Leggett said.
Officers immediately investigated and determined that the motorist and the motorcyclists had engaged in some kind of road rage incident at The Promenade and that the Vu driver had followed the riders to attack, Leggett said.
The riders, a man and a woman, were both taken to an area hospital for treatment of serious injures and Valdes was taken into custody, the sergeant said.
Anyone with information was asked to contact investigators at 951-696-3000.
From Temecula.patch.com
THE BAD COP ARCHIVES–She was a single mom who worked her way up from being a police service aide to a Lauderhill officer. They met in 2006, soon after he was hired to be on the force’s road patrol.
They briefly dated, but days ago she broke it off. And that’s when officials say he tried to kill her by emptying his 40-caliber pistol into her patrol car.
Before the night was over, Kristopher Bieger, the 30-year-old son of a retired Hallandale Beach cop, would beg fellow officers for just one more bullet so he could kill himself, according to police.
Now a traumatized Brittny Skinner, whose shirt and protective vest were left with bullet holes, is on paid leave. And Bieger is being held in jail on attempted murder charges, suspended without pay from the job he held for five years.
“This incident definitely tears us apart,” said Lauderhill Police Capt. Constance Stanley about the impact of the shooting upon the force’s 120 sworn officers. “There are a lot of mixed feelings because each of the officers has friends in the department.”
Both Skinner, 31, and Bieger patrolled Lauderhill’s eight square miles on the midnight shift. The two began seeing each other socially, but it did not go well. They argued, according to a court document, and there was jealousy and mistrust, and phone calls that pushed Skinner to break up with Bieger.
When she told him last week it was over, Bieger “began to cry uncontrollably” and begged her to take him back, according to a police report.
Skinner “made it very clear” to Bieger “that she was no longer interested in dating him,” according to police.
But Bieger, a single dad, could not let it go, police said. He called Skinner obsessively. And on Saturday around 7:30 p.m., after she rebuffed him yet again, he found her working her off-duty security job at the Inverness Plaza near Northwest 56th Avenue and West Oakland Park Boulevard, just six blocks from the police station.
According to police and a court document, Bieger drove his silver 2006 Chevy Silverado pickup to the plaza, saw Skinner sitting in her patrol car, and opened fire, emptying his Glock pistol of all 10 rounds. The trunk, rear driver’s side door and window took most of the shots.
But at least one bullet went through the patrol car seat, through Skinner’s police uniform and into her protective vest, said police.
–from Rogue
He brought it home and his wife looks at him and says, “What you gonna do with that. There ain’t no water deep enough to float a boat within 100 miles of here.”
He says, “I won it and I’m a-gonna keep it.”
His brother came over to visit several days later. He sees the wife and asks where his brother is?
She says, “He’s out there in his bass boat”, pointing to the field behind the house.
The brother heads out behind the house and sees his brother in the middle of a big field sitting in a bass boat with a fishing rod in his hand. He yells out to him, “What are you doin’?”
His brother replies, “I’m fishin’. What does it look like I’m a doin’?”
His brother yells, “It’s people like you that give people from Alabama a bad name, makin’ everybody think we’re stupid. If I could swim, I’d come out there and whip your ass!
–from the River Rat
WHATTA WEEK–We’ve seen several editors either laid off or quit, now the boss of Custom Chrome resigns. I don’t know what to make of it. The Bikernet team always tries to keep editor’s alive with freelance work, but I don’t know what I can do for Holger, from Custom Chrome.
I’ve got it, well maybe not. Here’s the positive side. Generally these guys are still motorcyclists, no matter what. Somehow, they will find a way to stay in motorcycling, writing books, freelancing, or get a job in the industry. Times are tough, but folks still want to ride. Hell, the Norton Motorcycle industry is starting all over, and Indian is finally in good hands.
To my feeble way of thinking, motorcycles represent so much more than just two-wheeled vehicles. We can still work on bikes, still sorta ride free, modify, and have some fun. We may need to step up and fight for these notorious bastards, with little or no protection, and we don’t want any. We just want to build cool shit and ride free. The government needs to take notes.
Have a helluva weekend, and Ride Forever,
–Bandit
