Hey,
This is nuts, but we all knew that. Just as some of the industry is flying to Europe to be apart of Robin Bradley’s first Industry Show in Essen, I’m heading to Greece to sail around the coast. What the hell? You only go around once in life, and I’m writing a drunken sailor article for the new magazine Cruising Outpost, and of course for Bikernet, and Adventure Voyaging. There is still one space available, if someone wants to jump on board.
The day before I leave, while negotiating with Sin Wu on what bag to take, and doing my utmost to pack and not forget anything, yet not over pack, learn the language, figure out the taxi service from the Athens airports, etc., I stumbled onto streamlined trike clarity. That’s right, I think I have a plan and can’t wait until I’m back to implement it.
I spoke to the official Delaware Chassis Works and the boss, who is an ECTA official about race car frames costing as much as $18,000. About the time I started to choke he turned me onto a frame builder in Southern California, Kiwi Steve. So as a jump onto a plane to Frankfurt, Germany, I’ll pencil a list for the shop when I return. I’ll be pumped and ready for another salty adventure, or salt flats adventure.
Let’s hit the news:
The Bikernet Thursday News is sponsored in party by IronWorks Magazine.
DREW’S RACING NEWS–Good parenting should cover ALL areas of a youngsters life; which naturally includes proper motorcycling protocol.
Proverbs 22:6
Works for me!
DREW GATEWOOD
AMA/F.I.M. Technical Steward
GEARS – Gatewood Engineering And Race Support
P.O. Box 2568
Chesterton, IN.
email: gears55@frontier.commailto:gears55@frontier.com
www.gearswebsite.com
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY HISTORY CLASS FINDINGS–Only two people signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, John Hancock and Charles Thomson.
Most of the rest signed on August 2, but the last signature wasn’t added until 5 years later.
Q. Half of all Americans live within 50 miles of what?
A.Their birthplace
Q. Most boat owners name their boats.
–from William Di Salvo Sr.
ROAD 2 SMOKE OUT VIDEO TEASE– Here is the Indiegogofundraiser project that I was refering to. It’s called ROAD 2 SMOKE OUT and is a new film from Zack Coffman, Producer of Choppertown.
http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/road-2-smoke-out/x/2281696
-Jeff
TODAY I CELEBRATE LIFE– Today I am going to pause just to celebrate Life. Everywhere I look I see and enjoy Spirit’s Creations. What a wonderful world we Live in.
Today I see past any false beliefs and conditioning, I realize my Truth; as of this moment every negative thought leaves me. I have no fear, no stress, no feelings of unworthiness, no tension. Every cell, tissue, organ in my body is operating in Perfect Harmony, Perfect expression of Love, Joy, Health, Peace, Confidence, Vitality, Abundance, Prosperity is flowing through me.
I give and receive an abundance of Love. I celebrate my work, my friends, my family, my world.
Today Know: Today I celebrate My Life. I am who I am because of where I have been. My world truly is Perfect, Whole and Complete. I am Divinely Discontent always moving to a Higher Level of Living, a Higher Level of Expression, a Higher level of Being. I am Grateful for this journey that I am on and all the lessons that I have learned from. Life is a God’s Gift and I accept only the best.
And So It is
Namaste’
Take the time to contemplate all the gifts in your Life and celebrate
–Yale
Yale Custom Cycles
403-453-1999
2003 11 ST SE
Calgary AB
T2G 3G6
BIKERNET UNIVERSITY ENGLISH DEPARTMENT FIGHTING OVER THE WORD OF THE DAY–quibble KWIB-uhl, verb:
1. to equivocate.?2. to carp; cavil.
noun: 1. an instance of the use of ambiguous, prevaricating, or irrelevant language or arguments to evade a point at issue. 2. the general use of such arguments. 3. petty or carping criticism; a minor objection.
— Kurt Vonnegut, Welcome to the Monkey House, 1968
— William Faulkner, Light in August, 1932
THIS JUST IN, New Bikernet Reader Comment!–
TAKE-A-BREAK THURSDAY NEWS FOR MAY 2, 2013
http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=11033
I’m absolutely astounded by the sheer stupidity of car manufacturers. As I understand it, text messaging and mobile phone usage is as large of a concern as drunk drivers are, so their remedy is to install touch screen in automobiles, but limit them to 20 seconds of usage. According my calculations that could mean 20 potential deaths. North America: Founded by geniuses, run by idiots.
–One Eye
Windsor, ON, Canada
BANDIT ON HOG RADIO– Here is direct link to show we did with you Friday night.
http://blog.hogradio.net/2013/05/03/hog-radio-episode-279-keith-ball-interview.aspx
I will call you this week so we can do more talking about the MRF committee and also working together to support each others efforts.
Great show and great getting to know you better. Looking forward to working with you.
–Steve Johann
The Hog Radio Show
425-743-6161
HARLEY-DAVIDSON WORLD RIDE READY TO RUMBLE– June 23-24
All Riders Invited to Join H.O.G. in Celebrating 110 Years of Great Riding
Let’s ride. The Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) invites Harley-Davidson motorcycle riders from around the world to join its members in celebrating the 110th Anniversary of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and the 30th Anniversary of H.O.G. as they enjoy the freedom of the open road during the 2013 Harley-Davidson World Ride on June 23-24.
In 2012, riders from 66 countries participated in the World Ride and collectively logged more than 7,800,000 miles. For 2013, H.O.G.’s goal is to raise the mileage total to more than 10 million miles. Whether it’s a ride across town or cross-country, or simply around the block to work, every mile counts and can be recorded by logging into Harley-Davidson’s online mileage accumulator at h-d.com/worldride, where a rolling odometer will record the collective distance traveled by all participants in the World Ride.
At the completion of the ride, a commemorative certificate of participation can be printed to display each rider’s mileage total for the day and riders are invited to share their riding stories online through Harley-Davidson’s My Epic Ride experience at h-d.com/110epicride.
For more information about the Harley Owners Group visit hog.com.
ROGUE’S BAD COP FILES– Deputy charged with robbing victim BONITA SPRINGS — A Lee County Sheriff’s deputy has been arrested for allegedly battering and robbing a man he’d offered to give a ride.
Lee County officials said Michael Ronga and other deputies received a call about a disturbance at a restaurant in Bonita Springs. Ronga offered to give the victim a ride home, but instead authorities say the deputy drove somewhere else and battered and robbed the victim. The victim ran off and Ronga allegedly drove off. Ronga was charged with robbery and placed on administrative leave.
— from Rogue
BROKEN SPOKE CAMPGROUND IN STURGIS, S.D. AND LIVE NATION ANNOUNCE NEW PARTNERSHIP FOR 2013 MOTORCYCLE RALLY–
– THREE CONCERTS JUST ANNOUNCED –
BLACK CROWES, QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, GARY ALLAN
AND ONE MORE MAJOR CONCERT YET TO BE ANNOUNCED
Ticket information available at www.LiveNation.com
The Broken Spoke Campground located in Sturgis, South Dakota and Live Nation today announced a new partnership for the 2013 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally for four concert events; including the return to the road for THE BLACK CROWES on Sunday, August 4, a night of rock from QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE on Monday, August 5 and country music superstar GARY ALLAN on Wednesday, August 7 and one more major headlining act for Tuesday, August 6 that will be announced in the near future.
The full 2013 entertainment schedule featuring additional concerts and motorcycle events at the Broken Spoke Campground will also be announced in the next several weeks. The Broken Spoke Campground at the 2013 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally will be open from July 29 – August 11.
“The Broken Spoke Saloon campground and resort has always been the place to be for bikers looking for plenty of space, great scenic views and, of course, our massive pool and party complex featuring a 5,000 square foot swimming pool, two-10 person hot tubs, BBQ area, sundries shop, stage and clean shower/dressing rooms. This new partnership with Live Nation will enable us to also offer superstar talent to our entertainment line-up. It’s going to be big,” said Brian Lash, CEO of the Broken Spoke.
Tickets for The Black Crowes (August 4), Queens of the Stone Age (August 5) and Gary Allan (August 7) are available at livenation.com and ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster outlets, participating Wal-Mart locations or charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000. Tickets for the Queens of the Stone Age concert will go on sale this Friday, May 10 at 10:00 a.m. (MDT). Tickets for the other concerts are on sale now. Camping packages at The Broken Spoke Campground and resort can also be purchased thru Ticketmaster and for more information on camping and other motorcycle activities visit brokenspoke.com.
BIKERNET 5-Ball RACING WHEELER REPORT–
Adrenaline Junky List:
*2nd Grand Child, It’s A Boy, Leon Gerald Wheeler, arrival, early June
*NHRA* ….*M/C*….5/30-6/2, Englishtown, N.J., 6/20-23, Epping, N.H., 6/27-30, Chicago, Il.
*Texas Mile* …..212 mph…..VALERIE THOMPSON ….212 mph ….www.texasmile.net
*Ohio Mile 2013* June 8-9 July 6-7 Sept. 28-29 ….www.ecta-lsr.com
*El Mirage 2013* *May 18-19, June 9, July 14, Sept. 15, Oct. 20, Nov. 9-10.. www.scta.org
*Loring Maine* The Maine Event July 12-14 ….www.lta-lsr.com
*Bonneville, SCTA* *95 Days….August 10-16, 2013* ….www.scta-bni.org
*BUB Speed Trials* *104 Days…. *August 24-29, 2013* ….www.speedtrialsbybub.com
*Mojave Mile* October, 12-13 ….www.mojavemile.com
Very confusing news on this Mon. evening, late (95 days until Speed Week ). The news usually posts Thursday evenings (92 days until Speed Week), are we confused yet? After bustin’ his ass all year, feedin’ the watch dogs, building and ridin the new FXR..the boss is takin a few days off. So, the news is early and the limo awaits at the curb for a trip to LAX Wednesday afternoon, up-up and away plus adventures on the high seas.
Please note. The remaining staff will promptly answer all calls, immediately place all calls on hold and continue to party.
Progress on all fronts the past couple of days. After a weekend of contemplation the decision was made. Call the team at Pro Charger in Lenexa, Kansas for their input on an intercooler. Rather than reinvent the wheel again, we ordered a front mount unit just after the crack of dawn Monday.
We’re rebuilding the existing air plenum by adding a heavier backing ring. Willie mounted the plenum on a set of parallel blocks on the shops solid Bridgeport mill, then bolted the plenum securely, set up a fly cutter on a 1/2 bar and machined the existing ring off. Our in house welding pro Toby will weld on a fresh 1/4 inch attaching ring for an airtight alibi.
During a parts run over the weekend at the local Ace, we found the perfect spring to hold the oil pan baffle in place.
We opened the billet primary to bolt the through shifter sleeve in place, discovering the outer primary had a slight glitch. The primary cover gasket had very little contact in the lower, rear area. Solution, build a dam and add J B Weld, machine or file flat for an oil tight seal.
Solutions and success must run hand in hand.
Dream, Build, Ride.
Thanks….With one helleva lot of help from my family and Industry friends….Thanks, Thanks, Thanks.
We’re on track for a stellar year on the street and on the Bonneville Salt Flats.
3 Ex-Wives, My 3 Sons, Aerocharger, All Balls Racing, Kent Rich, Dutch and the Crew@Air Tech Streamlining, Arai Helmets, Keith Ball and the Crew@Bikernet, Bikers Choice, Brad Beach@Beach Racing, Dr. Willie Lanham, Long Beach, Ca., Cometic Gaskets, Dan Thayer@vtwinfuelinjection, Allen Alvarez@Daytona Twin Tech, ERC Race Gas, George The Wild Brush, ET Krankvents (Thanks Ted Shrode, Ph.D—- R. I. P.), Fisher Harmonic Damper, Dan Stern@House of Thunder H-D, Horsepower Inc., Ron Williams, Jeff, Kevin@Hardtailz, Randy Torgeson, Michelle and the Crew@Hyperformance, Jim’s Machine USA, K&N Air Cleaner, Paul Kittrell@Lyndall Racing Brakes, Marc Susman@Colorado Custom Cycle Wheels, Juan, Colorado Custom Cycle Wheels, Ray Whitehead@Pegasus, Pingel, Walt, Pro Charger, Jim @Sharp Eye Transmission, Reggie and Crew@R&R Cycle, Ben Kudon@Rivera Primo, Matthew Wiley@Race Tech Suspension, Rick Tedder@ R/T Performance, Schnitz Racing, Mr. McCahill@Spyke, S&S Cycle, Matthew Negherbon@Thunder Motorcycles in San Jose, Guy Caputo@Tiger Racing, Steve The Turbo Doc, Tsubaki Chains, Vanderbeck Race Cars, Vanson Leathers, Dr. Willie, World Wide Bearings, Duncan Keller, Yankee Engineuity in San Jose, Ca..
Haul Ass!
Ride for your Life!
–Ray C Wheeler
Performance Editor
wheeler@bikernet.com
ULTIMATE MUSTANG TANKS FROM PAUGHCO–Paughco has just reintroduced what may be the most popular Chopper gas tank of all time, THE MUSTANG TANK.
The popular Chopper tanks are available in eight different sizes. Shown here is the model 804 2.2 gallon model which measures 16 ½”L x 9”W x 7” H. Integrated mounting tabs at the front and rear make for simple and clean installation to any chassis with a top tube.
Pressure tested before shipping the Paughco MUSTANG TANKS can be ordered with 1 or 2 caps, and in capacities up to 3.4 gallons. Each tank is fit with accommodations for a pair of ¼” petcocks.
You can even order a deep tunnel, wide body MUSTANG for that popular “FATBOB” look. You get all this and Paughco’s renowned quality starting at just $189.95! For complete details call 775-246-5738. On the Web at www.paughco.com
PPG REACHES KEY WATERBORNE CONVERSION MILESTONE– More collision centers in the National Rule areas of North America are now using PPG Automotive Refinish waterborne products than in low-VOC regulated areas. The announcement was made today by Tim Jones, PPG waterborne segment manager. Of the 9,000+ collision centers in the United States and Canada using PPG waterborne products, over fifty percent of them are in areas not required to meet current lower VOC limits. Such limits are in place in California, Canada and Delaware and will soon be implemented in Maryland, Utah and other regions.
Regulated (compliant) regions require collision centers to use low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) refinish products. PPG’s waterborne basecoats were introduced to serve such markets. While collision centers outside the low-VOC regions have more latitude in using traditional solvent-borne products, a significant number of shops have chosen to convert to PPG’s ENVIROBASE High Performance and AQUABASE Plus waterborne systems even though there is no obligation for them to do so.
“The wave of conversions has been remarkable,” said Jones. “In areas not restricted by current or impending low-VOC compliance standards, more collision centers apparently understand the value and quality of PPG products and service. They are making the change as a matter of preference. They realize PPG is not just a great waterborne option—it’s a great overall option.” Jones attributes the success of PPG’s waterborne products to several factors including product quality, ease of use, superior color match and PPG’s highly effective CONVERT WITH CONFIDENCE conversion process.
“Change can be difficult, and switching to waterborne is one of the most important decisions a shop can make. Customers are discovering that our unique process makes the conversion simple. And once a shop has converted, it can capitalize on the advantages and benefits PPG waterborne provides over solvent for color match, ease of use and productivity.” PPG initially debuted its waterborne technology to the automotive OEM market in 1986. In 1992 it introduced the world’s first commercialized automotive refinish waterborne basecoat, and in 2006 PPG launched its third generation and current waterborne technology, as found in the Envirobase High Performance and Aquabase Plus brands.
For more information about PPG and the Envirobase High Performance and Aquabase Plus lines of waterborne products call (800) 647-6050 or visit www.ppgrefinish.com.
AMD CHAMPIONSHIP RETRO CLASS ENTRY– This is what I just finished for the AMD Championship Retro modified class. I built it part as a bet and also to stimulate the younger generation.
It costed just less than $600 to build, and was built 99.9% without professional tools and painted with spray cans.
More here:
http://www.paulfunkdesign.com/content/honda-cb-450-steve-mcqueen-flat-tracker
What do you think?
–Paul
[page break]
THE BAD POLITICIAN FILE–NEW YORK Not guilty plea in corruption case ??NEW YORK — A oncepowerful New York state senator has pleaded not guilty to charges of embezzlement, obstruction of justice and lying to the FBI. Federal prosecutors have offered a plea deal to Sen. John Sampson, who had his first court appearance Monday.
Sampson was a court appointed referee to watch over escrow accounts for sales of foreclosed properties in Brooklyn. It’s alleged he embezzled $440,000 between 1998 and 2008. He’s accused of funneling funds into his failed campaign for Brooklyn district attorney.
The arrest is less than a week after prosecutors revealed former Sen. Shirley Huntley made secret recordings of other officials in a bid for leniency in her own corruption case.
Associated Press
–from Rogue
UNCLE MONKEY FIGHTS CITY HALL—Well, the city has slammed the door on my plans. My garage is woefully undersized for what I need. On the other hand my three-story house is way more house then Mrs. Monkey and I need. We had thrown our house on the market to downsize the house and upsize the garage. As the time has ticked away now is the time that I needed to move to plan B – keep my house and build a garage. The short summer would be consumed with construction but by next fall/winter I would be in a nice sized heated garage for all my projects.
I filed my paperwork with the city planning department and waited patiently for the go-ahead. It is a straightforward process that involves little more than a rubber stamp…or so I thought. The city has come back and rejected my building plans.
They cited numerous reasons from it being an eyesore apparently overwhelming the two and three-story houses that surround me. Another reason was that the long time established residences in the area do not want some gear head working out of his garage.
As I look around every single one of my neighbours have moved here in the last four years – I am that long time resident. They did offer a compromise. A new 12×20 garage would be allowed to replace my 11×18 garage. Hmm $30,000 to build and an additional $800 a year in property taxes for an extra 42sqft.
I’d rather put that $30,000 into another bike that ironically wouldn’t fit into that extra 42sqft.
Needless to say the bad news took the wind out of my sails, so much that I couldn’t even get pumped working on Snow White’s wiring. Moving boxes and tools from one side to the next to do a simple job; carefully leaping over this and that to retrieve a tool from the other side to venture back to remove a bolt hoping it wouldn’t get lost in the clutter until I could turn it back in.
I had followed the rules and regulations or so I thought only to find that government amended and interpret those rules to their own liking. If I were a political figure in this city I could sway the decision for my own personal gain, profiting from my own greed but I would much rather be riding.
– bad Uncle Monkey
WOMEN RIDERS NOW RIDE FOR GODADDY– I got a call out of the blue from Go AZ Motorcycles, 9-line dealership owned by GoDaddy’s Bob Parsons in Scottsdale. They wanted to work with me on their May Women Riders Month activities and did NOT know I was right next door, when they called. Complete coincidence that I was in Sedona, Arizona, so close to Phoenix.
I ended up meeting with them and am now working with them on two of their events… one of which was last Friday’s International Female Ride Day. I was included in a cool promotional ride we did to promote it that was shot with a helicopter, and I did it with your friend Valerie Thompson, who I finally got to meet in person. We became good friends fast and I look forward to hanging with her more.
Amazing opportunity to be shot with a helicopter like that. I took the attached shots from the saddle.
And check out this video:
http://youtu.be/1EImkxq8_94
–Genevieve Schmitt?Founder / Editor?WomenRidersNow.com?
Bammer Racing Shines in National Magazine–Hot Rods and Harleys– Larry “Drums” Brancaccio and Bammer Racing is ready to go racing but one of their winter projects involved a full photo shoot and after press time, you can find Drums in Issue 2 of Hot Rods and Harleys Magazine. page 52-57. Publisher, Paul Kenworthy and associate editor Maria Hinchcliff did a great job with not only the images they used but they seemed to capture the essence of Drums–wide open nitro wild man. You can find Hot Rods and Harleys at Barnes and Nobles Book Stores throughout the US.
Bammer Racing will next race at NHRA -Harley-Davidson Drag Racing Series “The Mickey Mart Rewards Cavalcade of Stars presented by Budweiser” at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park, Norwalk, Oh, May 17th-19th.
Crew chief, Michael Hopkins has Drums’ bike ready but there might be a few changes as Brancaccio has been trying out some other seats. Stay tuned.
Bammer Race Team consists of
Drums Brancaccio
Crew Chief: Michael Hopkins
Dickie Roberts
Joe Wysocki
Richard Murray
Sponsors for 2013 include:
Central Metal Fabricators www.CentralMetalFabricators.com
Anthony Augliera, Inc www.augliera.com
Richard Murray
Keith’s Custom Seats www.keithscustomseats.com
World Wide Bearings www.worldwidebearings.com
Capone Landscape www.caponeracing.com
Vanson Leathers www.vansonleathers.com
Tattooville Tattoo www.tattooville.com
Autolite www.autolite.com
Chris Dimaggio Property Management Services
Starlight Tattoo
website. www.bammerracing.com
NEWS FLASH– Are you getting the maximum use of your vehicle? Get the job done or die trying.
–Rik Savenko
STAGE SET TO SELECT IOWA GRAND MOTORCYCLE RALLY ‘BATTLE OF THE BANDS’– The lineup for the 2013 Iowa Grand Motorcycle Rally’s featured ‘Battle of the Bands’ will be set in motion on three consecutive Wednesday nights, May 8, 15 and 22, at the Seven Flags Event Center in Urbandale.
Billed as the ‘Iowa Grand Jam’, and hosted by popular KGGO afternoon radio personality ‘Clutch’, the 7:30 pm preliminary rounds will pit four local rock bands each Wednesday night in a showdown of talent, with one finalist selected each night to compete on Thursday evening, May 30, opening day for the Iowa Grand Motorcycle Rally at Iowa Speedway in Newton.
Two of the three finalists competing in the’ Iowa Grand Jam’ will make it to final eliminations on Friday evening, May 31, during the Iowa Grand Motorcycle Rally, with the ultimate ‘Battle of the Bands’ champion opening for the Rally’s headline acts on Saturday night, June 1.
“We’re looking for the best of the best in local rock bands to compete in the ‘Iowa Grand Jam’,” the iconic ‘Clutch’ said from behind KGGO’s control panel at the Cumulus Media studios. “If you think your band has what it takes to play the Iowa Grand Motorcycle Rally, then bring a demo to the studios. We’ll pick four bands to play each Wednesday, and then we’re gonna rock the house!”
Interested local rock musicians may submit their bands’ demos in person at Cumulus Media, 4143 109th Street in Urbandale, or log on to www.kggo.com for more information. Bands will be contacted by KGGO, and will be responsible to transport and set up their own equipment at Seven Flags Event Center on the designated ‘Iowa Grand Jam’ Wednesday night.
The track is owned and operated by U.S. Motorsport Corporation and designed by NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace, now an anchor and analyst for ABC-TV/ESPN. Call 1-866-RUSTY-GO, or visit www.iowaspeedway.com to learn more.
MISFIT BAGGERS SLIP FIT NECK KIT– Slip Fit Neck Kit for Big Wheel Baggers. This kit allows you to run a 30-inch front wheel maintaining stock trail. Only 1.5-inch of neck lift when using this kit.
By running a short neck setup like this we gained 3″ clearance. You can also use the kit to tun a 26″ wheel. We Recommend the use of front air ride when using with a 26-inch wheel only because the additional 3 inches of suspension clearance.
Misfit Baggers introduces the latest in Innovative products for your Bagger. Our latest full line of products can be seen at www.misfitbaggers.com
MICKEY THOMPSON PERFORMANCE TIRES & WHEELS RETURNS TO WESTERN MOTORCYCLE DRAG RACING ASSOCIATION’S AMSOIL
STURGIS NATIONALS AS OFFICIAL TIRE SPONSOR– Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels (Mickey Thompson) will support the 2013 Western Motorcycle Drag Racing Association (WMDRA) AMSOIL Sturgis Nationals scheduled for Aug. 5-7 at Sturgis Dragway as the official tire sponsor. In this important role, Mickey Thompson will award the winners in Top Fuel and Pro Dragster with a Mickey Thompson drive tire. Also, new this year, WMDRA introduces the Mickey Thompson Pro Gas “Quick Draw Challenge” where the first round competitor with the lowest reaction time wins a free Mickey Thompson drive tire.
“It’s great to expand our support of the sport of motorcycle drag racing,” stated Tom Kundrik, Motorsports Manager, Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels. “Dragbike competition is some of the most exciting racing around and we’re looking forward to another great event this August.”
The WMDRA was founded in 2011 to support professional drag racers and promote the sport of all motorcycle drag racing, both American and metric, in the western United States. For more information, visit www.westernmotodrags.com
The company was founded in 1963 by racing legend Mickey Thompson and is headquartered in Stow, Ohio, USA. For more information, visit:
http://www.mickeythompsontires.com/
BECOME A MEMBER OF THE WHEELS THROUGH TIME MUSEUM AND SAVE– 2013 Spring Membership Drive Underway — And we need your help!!!
In order to continue to fulfill our mission of preserving our American transportation history, we need your help! Wheels Through Time is holding a Spring Membership Drive this 2013!! We are asking our visitors to help with our goal of 100 new members by the end of May.
Lifetime Museum Membership comes with many benefits, including complimentary admission for the member and half-priced admission for a guest; advanced notice to upcoming shows and events at WTT; Museum store discounts, and access to the entire library of WTT videos on the museum website….just to name a few!
When you become a 1-year or a Lifetime WTT Member, not only will you be helping keep us “The Museum That Runs”, you will also benefit knowing that you are personally supporting the museum and it’s future!
So, how can you help? By visiting the Member Page on our website, or the “Shop” tab on our Facebook page, you can join our membership program with just a few clicks of the mouse!
*Special Offer* — All new Lifetime members that register through May 31st will receive a complimentary WTT T-Shirt and patch!*
Thank You For Helping Keep History Alive
@ Wheels Through Time !
MICHIGAN Woman accused of faking rape, fraud DETROIT — A woman who appealed for money to fight her cancer was charged Monday with fraud, just a few days after she was accused in another case of falsely reporting a rape and using makeup to show injuries.
Besides two criminal cases filed against Sara Ylen, 38, in less than a week, she also was involved in the prosecution of James Grissom, who was released from prison last fall after nearly 10 years.
Despite no physical evidence, Grissom was found guilty of raping Ylen in 2001 in a parking lot. A judge threw out the conviction after authorities learned she had made up sexual-assault allegations in California, information that wasn’t available to the defense at trial.
Associated Press
–from Rogue
AMD CUSTOM BIKE SHOW INVITATION HARLEY-DAVIDSON 110th —This is your invitation to participate in the AMD Invitational Custom Bike Show at the Harley-Davidson® 110th Anniversary Celebration. A total of 28 custom motorcycles from North America will be selected to attend the competition.
AWARDS – We will be awarding over $30,000 in cash and prizes. The FreeStyle class winner secures a bid to the AMD World Championship in Essen, Germany in 2014. The Modified Harley winner takes possession of a Screamin’ Eagle 120R High-Performance engine.
REGISTRATION – This is how the process works. Go to http://bikerpros.com/register-for-bikeshow/museum/ and register by making a $250 payment. After you register we will follow up directly with you to confirm your participation. This is our first round of invitations.
CLASSES – The classes include:
•FreeStyle
•MOD Harley (1984 & Up)
•RADICAL Bagger
•Retro MOD.
They were selected to allow a broad spectrum of motorcycle styles, engine configuration and design.
BIGGEST HARLEY EVENT – The 110th Anniversary is the biggest in the motor company’s history and we feel honored that the Harley-Davidson Museum has relied on AMD and Biker Pros to deliver a world class competition that honors their celebration.
Load-in kicks off on Wednesday August 28th and wraps up on Sunday, September 1st.
BIKERNET MEDICAL CENTER STEALS FINDINGS FROM DR. WEIL–four Reasons to Eat Pistachios. Pistachios, like most nuts, are a healthy snack when eaten in moderation, and their fat content can help stave off hunger pangs. If you need more reasons to pick up a bag of pistachios, consider this – pistachios:
1.May help reduce the risk of heart disease. They are rich in the amino acid arginine, phytosterols and unsaturated fat – all of which promote heart health.
2.Are a good source of polyphenol antioxidants, which protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
3.May promote eye health. Pistachios have high levels of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, which can reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
4.Provide fiber. One ounce of pistachios (about 47 nuts) has three grams of dietary fiber – more than a half-cup of spinach and the same amount as an orange or apple.
I recommend avoiding nuts that are dyed red or white (fortunately, these are rare nowadays), and eating only the natural ones – the green hue of the actual nut is natural and comes from chlorophyll.
To keep pistachios fresh and crunchy, store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drawing moisture from the air and becoming soggy. If you keep them in the refrigerator or freezer, you can store them for as long as a year.
BIKEMASTER ARROW GRIPS FROM BIKER’S CHOICE–All of our new 7/8-inch grips have superior materials and construction. High quality compounds results in comfort and maximum grip. High tolerance manufacturing for accurate and secure fit.
High spec materials mean years of performance and functionality. Constructed with ultra comfort dual compound grip. Arrow pattern adds flare, with a soft-top compound to reduce vibration.
Top compound has micro ridges for better grip. Fits 7/8” handlebars. Grip measures 120mm long.
PN: 10-5930, 105931, 10-5932, 10-5933, 10-5934
MSRP: $15.95
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GUN NUT REPORT FROM THE WASHINGTON POST–Chart of the day: Gun homicides are down 49 percent since 1993.
A new report from Pew Research finds that gun homicide rates in the United States have dropped 49 percent between 1993 and 2010. Other types of gun violence have dropped 75 percent over that period. Here it is in chart form:
There are a few twists here. As the chart makes clear, virtually all of the decline in gun homicides took place during the 1990s. That downward trend stopped in 2001 and only started falling again in 2007, albeit more slowly. The same is true for other types of gun violence — assaults, robberies, sex crimes.
Meanwhile, even as gun homicide rates have plummeted, gun suicide rates have declined at a much slower pace. As a result, Pew reports, “gun suicides now account for six-in-ten firearms deaths, the highest share since at least 1981.”
So why has gun violence declined? The report lists a whole slew of theories, from demographics to the economic boom during the 1990s to the drop in lead in the environment:
By the early 1990s, crack markets withered in part because of lessened demand, and the vibrant national economy made it easier for even low-skilled young people to find jobs rather than get involved in crime.
At the same time, a rising number of people ages 30 and older were incarcerated, due in part to stricter laws, which helped restrain violence among this age group. It is less clear, researchers say, that innovative policing strategies and police crackdowns on use of guns by younger adults played a significant role in reducing crime….
Another theory links reduced crime to 1970s-era reductions in lead in gasoline; children’s exposure to lead causes brain damage that could be associated with violent behavior. The National Academy of Sciences review said it was unlikely that either played a major role, but researchers continue to explore both factors.
Curiously, Pew reports, most Americans are also unaware of this drop: “According to a new Pew Research Center survey, today 56% of Americans believe gun crime is higher than 20 years ago and only 12% think it is lower.”
Further reading: There’s a lot of good info in the Pew report. And here’s a write-up of similar new Justice Department data from my colleague Jerry Markon.
–Washington Post
–from Agent Zebra
SADDLEMEN RELEASES AMERICANO SEATS FOR SPORTSTERS– The Americano is Saddlemen’s unique take on the classic café racing seat and is available for Harley-Davidson Sportster models from 1979-present, with applications for both the peanut or large classic fuel tanks. The Americano was designed from the bike up to fuse nostalgic styling with modern comfort technology for the ultimate Sportster upgrade.
Saddlemen’s Americano fuses the nostalgic café racer look with modern comfort technology.
Element-resistant SaddleHyde cover is available in a modern pattern or classic pleated “tuck ‘n roll” pattern.
Progressive density foam and SaddleGel top layer provide rider comfort on rides long and short.
The marine-grade SaddleHyde covers the progressive density foam and a SaddleGel top layer for the perfect marriage of element-resistant durability and rider-focused comfort. The seating area and rear hump was shaped to complement the bike’s lines and provide long-lasting rider comfort, while the seat pan was painstakingly matched to the bike for a perfect fit. The easy bolt-on design means no other hardware is necessary for installation.
The Saddlemen Americano is made in the U.S.A. is and available in a modern pattern cover or a pleated “tuck ‘n roll” style cover. Click here for a full application chart.
SEQUESTRATION CUTS HALF ATF PRESENCE AT STURGIS RALLY–
By John Lee McLaughlin Rapid City Journal staff
Swarms of law enforcement agents are needed each year to make sure the outlaw culture that permeates the Sturgis Rally remains just cultural. But this year there will be fewer federal agents available to keep an eye on things for the first time in nearly a decade.
Federal budget cuts known as sequestration have benched the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives from attending the rally this year. The bureau at times sent more than 20 agents to patrol Sturgis.
One agent in Rapid City will be on call this year when the rally officially starts on Aug. 5, officials said. “If there was some sort of threat that came forward, the agency would re-evaluate the need and act accordingly to a threat,” South Dakota’s ATF resident agent in charge Bob Boland said. And the “one-percenters” will be there in one form or another, he said, referring to certain gangs.
“They have pretty much attached their names to all of your criminal activities,” Boland said. “They are the one percent who are the worst of the worst. “Specific to the rally, there is a definite pattern of criminal conduct with some of their members,” he said. “They have been involved with many violent crimes at the rally.”
Although there is a balance between petty and violent crimes during the weeklong event, Boland said the gangs’ criminal activity includes serious crimes such as assault and murder. “It’s public knowledge what happened in 2006,” Boland said, referring to a rally shootout between the Outlaws and Hells Angels at Custer Park and other violence among the gangs. “Our intelligence was pretty accurate, but we couldn’t stop everything from happening.”
He would not comment on how much money the agency saves by not attending the rally this year. “It’s just kind of a personal disappointment,” Boland said. “We like being there and supporting them. But it’s budget impacts, and we know what that means.”
Despite the lack of ATF agents this year, Sturgis City Manager Daniel Ainslie said he expects a safe rally. “Anytime there is a large gathering of people, there is a potential for an incident,” he said. “But if you look at the statistics, we are by far one of the safest places you can be.”
“Our police department will continue to provide a safe place for everyone for the week,” Ainslie said, adding the police have always been the backbone of security. He said ATF is just one of numerous federal agencies present at the rally, including the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service, the National Guard, the Bureau of Land Management and even the National Forest Service. He said last year the city hired police from nine states to help out.
Sturgis Police Chief Jim Bush said even that support will be comparatively less than in past years. “The things they were involved with won’t go away,” Bush said. “We’re going to have to find a way to do them.” Ainslie wouldn’t comment on exactly how many officers and agents will be available. “It’s significant,” he said.
–from Buck Lovell
Bikernet Baggers
Editorial Chieftain
OKAY, I’M GONE, BUT MY HEART IS ALWAYS ON A MOTORCYCLE—I enjoy sailing and new adventures, but there’s nothing like the open road and a hot running motorcycle. Gary Mraz says it so well in his Midnight Rider Book. I’m actually taking a book about Pirates, Under the Black Flag, by Don C. Seitz.
Here’s another oddity. One night someone dropped three books over our back gate into the Bikernet yard. I still can’t find out who the culprit is, but I’m taking one with me, Trunk Music, by Michael Connelly. We’ll see. It’s sorta crumpled, but I can still read it.
Stay outta trouble while I’m away. Hold all the drama at bay, and get serious shit done to the betterment of others. As soon as I return Chris Callen, Rob, and I are going to develop our first MRF Industry Council committee and set a handful of goals. Reach out to Chris, if you want to be involved.
Ride Forever,
–Bandit
