It’s All Good, At Least It Should Be…
Merry Christmas !
Hey,
We mean it deeply. We are actually living in the best of times. The very best of times from a human development standpoint. Thinks about it, as bikers we can build anything. We have the technology to do it all from wild artistic components to ultra-high performance.
From a health standpoint, if we don’t let Anthony F. and his thugs kill us all, we can easily live to be 100. How about travel. We can load a chopper on a plane and show it in Qatar the next day, where the streets are air-conditioned. We can ride across every continent and hike to the top of Mt. Everest. If we get a little light-headed someone can fire up a little hand-held oxygen producer and add much needed spring to our step.
Unfortunately, a side of our citizenry wants to paint everything as bad, but it’s actually not, not in anyway. Sure, folks made mistakes, stumbles, were greedy, but overall progress has been amazing and continues to be unbelievable.
Let’s hit the news:
The News was provided by the Bikernet Team including: Wayfarer, the Redhead, Bob T. Sam Burns, Rogue, 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: Easyriders Magazine, Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.
AIM EXPO ALERT–
With regulatory pressures increasing at both the state and federal levels, it is essential for the Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket to stay ahead of developments that directly affect our
operations, customers, and long-term profitability. In partnership with the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, we will be hosting a targeted industry workshop at AIMExpo to provide the
information and strategic guidance needed to protect our collective investment in motorcycling.
Please add the following to your schedule:
Thursday, January 8
3:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Anaheim Convention Center, Level 2, Room 205A
Led by respected industry spokesman Bob Kay, this two-hour session will deliver concise, actionable insights designed to help business owners, suppliers, and builders anticipate
regulatory impacts, reduce risk, and strengthen future ROI.
Your participation is an important step in safeguarding the stability, growth, and future of the motorcycle aftermarket and our industry.
Please RSVP by responding to this email.
We look forward to seeing you in Anaheim.
Bob Kay
bkay@abikersgarage.com
Fred Harrell
fred@mrf.org
Penny Osiecki
Lucky Penny Marketing
KYLE PETTY CHARITY RIDE NEWS– Darcy Betlach is with Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America and 3 others
Well, well, well… do I have news today.
Remember Build #3 I’m leading at Northern Tool — The Legends Build with the flat track icons, Billy Lane and the students at LaVergne High School? Yep, that one.
We just signed a TV deal with RACER Network for a multi-episode series next fall covering the build, the legends, the bike—and most importantly, the students. This is a first for Northern Tool, a first for our builds, and a huge moment for these kids.
Here’s why I’m beaming:
They’re turning a Harley-Davidson Nightster into an XR750-inspired flat track racer in 174 days.
They’re learning real, hands-on skills that translate into great careers in the trades.
They’re doing it with mentorship from Scott Parker, Chris Carr, Billy Lane and more. Legends. Full send.
Please join me in celebrating this crew—their talent, and the futures they’re building with their own hands.
Follow along for monthly updates (hosted by Kyle Petty) and plenty of behind-the-scenes: more noise, more sparks, more pride.
Here’s a quick shot of the students when they heard the news—they basically freaked out.
–Rogue
Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005
www.bikerrogue.com
BUELL BEGINS DELIVERIES– of Much Anticipated Super Cruiser After EPA & CARB Approvals
Buell Motorcycle Co., the iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, proudly announces the start of customer deliveries for its long-awaited Super Cruiser. Now fully certified with EPA and CARB approvals, this milestone marks a new era for Buell and the American motorcycle market.
The Super Cruiser has ignited enthusiasm since its concept debut in 2023, capturing the imagination of riders nationwide with its bold design, brutal power delivery, and unmistakable presence on the road. After rigorous engineering, production and retail customer delivery of this highly anticipated model has officially begun.
“It’s exciting to be delivering the bikes to the customers. It has been a journey re-growing Buell to this stage of production and now the customers can take their own journey on the Super Cruiser,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycle Co.
Responding directly to rider feedback, Buell intentionally incorporated a high percentage of domestically sourced components, reflecting the company’s commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Each Super Cruiser is hand-assembled in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where Buell’s team blends precision engineering with the raw character enthusiasts have come to expect.
Buell offers direct-to-customer sales and delivery, or delivery through Buell’s network of Premium Service Centers. Buell’s national service footprint has expanded to more than 80 authorized service locations, delivering expert support coast to coast, with plans to grow to 120 service centers in 2026. This growth demonstrates Buell’s long-term commitment to nationwide coverage and rider confidence.
With EPA and CARB approvals finalized, production momentum strong, and deliveries underway, Buell once again proves that American engineering, passion, and performance can redefine what riders expect from their motorcycle.
Buell Motorcycle Co.
AMERICAN PRIME STEPS UP WITH–CV Parts Warehouse!!
The CV (constant velocity) carburetor was standard equipment on most Harley’s in the ‘80s & ‘90s.
We stock most parts for rebuilding your CV carb.
CV Performance Parts
We stock all the parts you’ll need for your CV carb INCLUDING A FULL SELECTION OF
MAIN & SLOW JETS!!
FIVEBALL RACING LEATHER ACTION– My grandson is always up to something cool with his leather line on Instagram.
And check out his very cool beanie helmets from Ventura.
CHIP HOLIDAY BAND ANNOUNCEMENT–MEGADETH
Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026
With 50 million records sold worldwide, a GRAMMY Award (plus 12 nominations), billions of streams, seven Top 10 albums on the Billboard 200, and decades of sold-out arenas and stadiums, their legacy is untouchable, and this is a show you can’t miss.
NEWS FROM THE WARMING NORTH POLE OR MAYBE NOT–Climate Grinches Ignore CO2 Gifts
There is a gift arriving right on cue to meet a continuous increase in population and demand for food.
This gift of plenty is a remarkable increase in agricultural productivity that is due, in large part, to a process fundamental to all life, starting with plants: Photosynthesis is a mechanism by which plants use CO2, water and sunlight to make sugars for food. And the more CO2, the better!
Only the Climate Grinches would oppose such a bounty of greening from modern warmth and CO2 concentrations. These are the characters who have dominated headlines in popular media and policy roundtables in Brussels and Washington. They steal not only the joy of experiencing this natural abundance by spreading false fears but also the prosperity and sovereignty of nations.
Climate Grinches look at a greening planet and see disaster. When NASA announces that Earth has added vegetation equivalent to two American continents, they warn that this cannot last, that benefits are temporary, that doom still awaits. When farmers report bumper harvests enabled by longer growing seasons and CO2 fertilization, the Climate Grinches insist that gains are outweighed by unspecified future horrors.
So, this Christmas season, when you gather with your family, look at the spread before you with new eyes. Reject the guilt that climate orthodoxy seeks to place on our shoulders. Modern lifestyles are not destroying the planet. We are basking in a vibrant ecosystem that supports more greenery, more people and more human potential than at any other time in history.
Spurious Correlation: Stock Market Drives Temperature Increase
Those promoting climate doom due to increasing man-made emissions rely on the fact that generally increasing temperatures also coincided with increasing atmospheric CO2 over the last 130 or so years. All the while, they ignore the longer history over many hundreds and thousands of years that contradict this failed hypothesis.
Spurious Correlations is a popular site that showcases strange correlations such as the correlation between ice cream sales and shark attacks. Our Science and Research Associate, Byron Soepyan, had some fun and found a great correlation between recent temperature and the Standard and Poor Stock Market Index.
We continue to remind you that correlation is not causation.
Read Vijay Jayaraj’s entire commentary here, first published by American Greatness on December 8, 2025.
SEARCHING FOR THAT PERFECT GIFT? It’s available at American Prime.
Our world-famous Mini Handlebar controls are the answer for the biker in on your top two list! These people don’t want a sweater or a pair of socks, they want motorcycle parts, and these controls are the parts they want!!
These controls are small in size, but very large in stature! Designed to handle the harsh environments typically found when on a motorcycle, they come in 9/16″, 11/16″ & 7/16″ master cylinder bores for all types of different applications. Available in stunning show chrome, polished or black powder coated finish to fit that perfect machine perfectly. Features a sight glass in the master cylinder for visual inspection of the amount of brake fluid and every kit includes a mirror stem.
Whether you’re building a minimalist chopper, old skool sled or a bobber, these controls will definitely round out the “look”!
FRED’S SPEED A SPORT BACK IN THE NEWS– Watch for a couple of Fred’s bikes to show up on the pages of Easyriders in the near future, including this rig. Fred has a touch with bikes like no one else does.
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK– 2021 Indian Motorcycle Scout Bobber for Sale, $9,995
The Scout has everything and more for a Bobber, a true ride for a rider!
Stock# 14640
2021 Indian Motorcycles Scout Bobber with only 1,983 miles!
The Indian Scout is better than what you can first imagine and now is the time to come down and get this one!
* OEM Black Paintjob
* Forward Controls
* Dual Black Exhaust
* 1100CC V-Twin Motor
* LED Lighting
* ABS Brakes
This bike is only $ 9,995.00
Plus license, $85.00 documentation fee, and local sales tax. NO HIDDEN FEES like some dealers. And we have no reconditioning or prep fees. This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 103-point safety/mechanical/structural inspection.This motorcycle has not been refurbished and does not come with any warranty expressed or implied! EXTENDED WARRANTIES are available!
Fill out an online application today. We have EZ FINANCING
Lifestyle Cycles is located at 1510 State College Blvd,Anaheim,CA,92806. Open 7 days a week.
NOT LOCAL? WE HAVE SHIPPING AVAILABLE! Call today (714) 490-0155.
Huge selection of Street Glides, Road Glides, Road Kings, Ultras, Sportsters, Softails, Dynas, and much more!
We are California’s pre-owned Harley Mega-Store with over 200 Pre-Owned Harley-Davidsons in stock! To view our current inventory,
Please visit www.LifestyleCycles.com or www.facebook.com/LifestyleCyclesUsedHarleys/
HERE IT IS, DIRECTLY FROM CYCLE SOURCE TV–
We’re thrilled to announce the release of our latest video, What’s In Your Garage – Bears Vintage Motorcycle Museum! We can’t wait for you to see it. You can watch the video now on our website Cycle Source TV – please feel free to share it. We hope you enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed creating it. Thank you for your continued support!
Watch Now
NEW CALIFORNIA LAW– RESTRICTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SALE AND SHIPMENT OF FIREARM PARTS
California AB 1263, which goes into effect January 1, 2026, places certain restrictions on the sale and shipment of “firearm accessories” and barrels to consumers in California.
AB 1263 significantly broadens the definition of unlawful firearm manufacturing; imposes new rules for barrels, “accessories,” and manufacturing machines, such as three-dimensional printers and CNC mills; increases liability for distributing digital firearm manufacturing code; and creates new ten-year prohibitions for the possession of firearms for certain misdemeanors, including manufacturing an undetectable firearm or knowingly or willfully causing another person to engage in the unlawful manufacture of firearms.
AB 1263 imposes onerous requirements on members of the firearms industry selling barrels and certain other firearm parts to consumers in California.
MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION ALERT–Sign Online Petition Opposing Florida HB-429
Florida’s House Bill 429 (HB-429) seeks to loosen the standards required to qualify for gang membership. This bill would require a two-factor system, where meeting two of the listed criteria would qualify individuals for the criminal gang database. These criteria do not require you to have participated in criminal conduct or criminal activity. The criteria included are as simple as commenting on identified social media posts or being observed twice in the presence of anyone previously identified as a gang member.
Other criteria include adopting the style of dress of a criminal gang. However, that style of dress is not identified and left to the discretion of law enforcement. Another criterion is having a tattoo identified as used by a criminal gang. With this broad option, if a gang began using a heart-shaped tattoo, all citizens with heart tattoos would be eligible for the criminal gang database at the discretion of law enforcement.
Understandably, Florida citizens are alarmed and have started an online petition to oppose HB-429. This petition is open to everyone nationwide. The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) encourages all freedom fighters to click the button below and sign on. We are also including a button linking to the text of HB-429, so that you may read the two-page bill for yourself.
Online Petition
HB-429 Text
The content of this bill has quickly stirred up opinions and commentary nationwide. If you would like to read further about the potential abuses opened by HB-429, we are including an analysis by ABATE of Arizona’s Legislative Director, Michael Infanzon.
HB-429 Analysis
Join The MRF, visit https://www.mrf.org/
MOTORCYCLES SAVE LIVES– Kevin Hesse
Community. It’s one of those words that can be tricky to define, but when you have it, you know it. It’s a feeling, and not something that you can package and sell. The folks at Motorcycle Missions understand this. You can create a setting, but community building has to happen on its own. Of course, a shared interest is foundational: the definition of community literally means a group of people with common interests. Cue the motorcycles.
Kevin jumped into the deep end at Sturgis, since it is a week long ordeal of attending or putting on events. Among the events this year was the first ever Pancakes and Pistons event. A free breakfast and bike show held in Outlaw Square in the town of Deadwood, it began with an early morning set up and a fast paced day, serving pancakes, keeping the merchandise booth stocked, and answering questions from those attending.
A QUIET REFLECTION AT THE BASE OF THE MOUNTAIN– Is there Peace in Faith. Today we must shine our Light of Love.
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King Jr.,
Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light. –Helen Keller
Do you find that it is hard to have Faith some days with all the insanity going on in the world? I mean all you have to do is turn on your computer or TV and you are bombarded with all the terrible stuff that is happening. Then we get into conversations that re-enforce how bad things are and we even talk about how much worse it is getting. We have got to the point of accepting insanity as normal. Hate, racism, judgment, is growing everyday. Mass shootings are now accepted as the norm, politicians promoting hate is now becoming OK. Add all our own personal challenges and problems and it becomes very hard to believe that there is something greater out there for us to have Faith in.
On top of all this think about how much money and government resources are channeled into war. One minute we are supporting a countries war efforts who turn around and are attacking us the next minute.
What would happen if we took the billions of dollars that goes into wars and channeled that into making Peace? What would happen if we started channeling our energy into positive conversations? No matter how bad the media may say it is, we still aren’t bad at all. We can still make a change for the good. I have to question myself and ask am I part of the problem or part of the solution? Is there something I can do to make this a better world? Could we start a movement to get people to buy into the fact the there is a better way to talk about Life and help make this a better world. Could we get people to believe that there is a Power for good waiting for the world to embrace? I don’t know for sure but it could start with us! As John Lennon said, “Imagine all the people living life in peace. You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one. I hope someday you’ll join us, and the world will be as one.”
The Dalai Lama was asked by a reporter how can we have Peace, his simple reply was, “make friends”. What wonderful advice. Victor Hugo wrote “Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise,” Let our inner light dissipate the darkness in the world today.
Take a moment today, close your eyes, and embrace the Spirit’s light inside. Shut off the world chatter and allow The Light to dissipate some of the darkness of the world, this may be a start to change the world if we all could get together to feel and see the Light within.
Today Know: I believe that Spirit is waiting for the world to embrace Love and Peace. Today I change my thinking and conversations to seeing good everywhere I go. I will not get into negative conversations no matter how much I am tempted. I believe that we can create a Peace Revolution through a collective consciousness; we can make the change. Lyndon B Johnson said Peace is a journey of a thousand miles and it must be taken one step at a time, may the first step begin with me. I know that if we believe we will achieve.
Today is my opportunity to be part of the solution, today I have Faith that the world can change. As the Dali Lama said that best way to have Peace is to make friends, today I am going to be a friend. I am Grateful to have Faith in a Power greater than me. I Trust The Power to respond to these words. Today I go within to that place of Peace, I raise my level of Faith and do my part to make this a better world!
I am Grateful to be on this path.
And So It Is
Namaste’
Faith consists in believing when it is beyond the power of reason to believe. –Voltaire
Contemplative Questions
Where in my daily thoughts or conversations can I choose light instead of darkness, love instead of fear?
How can I become more intentional about being part of the solution rather than contributing to division?
What simple act of friendship or compassion can I offer today to help bring more peace into the world?Thanks
–Yale Gelfant
TRANS AM UPDATE– Gooooooood morning race fans!
This week’s blog is all about the first hours of every morning on the TransAm. From alarms going off way too early to the green flag waving riders out onto the route, it’s a look at what mornings really feel like for both the staff and the riders. It’s one of my favorite behind the scenes moments of the race, and I think you’ll enjoy this one. You can read it here: https://motorcycletransam.com/the-first-hours-of-every-morning/
Registration is also open and spots are already starting to fill. If the TransAm has been on your mind, now is the time to commit and get yourself on the starting line. We cannot wait to see who joins us this year.
You can register here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd13A57kTqD1jxbQjmnsXuQvYehosl6i9rjwzdLkLEHNpoogg/viewform
And if you’re looking to add a little TransAm to your holiday season, our store is always open with shirts, hats, and other goodies that help support the race. Check it out here: https://motorcycletransam.com/shop/
From all of us here at the TransAm, Merry Christmas & Happy Hanukkah! We’re grateful for this community, this race, and the people who keep it alive.
Peace, Love, & Antique Motorcycles,
Kelsey Jackson
S&S MK136B engine for Milwaukee Eight Softail
The next generation of Proven Performance for your 2018 & newer Milwaukee Eight powered Softail, the MK136B Engine.This is the newest complete and ready to install crate engine S&S is known for. S&S took their MKB-Series crankcases, married them to the 136″ cylinders and flywheels, and then fit High-flow cylinder heads with +1mm valves and .605″ springs.
Zodiac International and S&S
HOLLYWOOD DOUBLE-DEATH REPORT–
You may have heard about the bizarre double death of Hollywood’s legendary Director Rob Reiner and his wife.
James Woods who is a vocal supporter of President Trump spoke about his relationship with the very liberal Director…..
“Because you disagree with people doesn’t mean that you have to hate people.” — James Woods
Refer interview in Variety magazine:
https://variety.com/2025/film/news/james-woods-rob-reiner-death-remarks-1236609668
—-Wayfarer@Bikernet.com
Associate Editor, Bikernet.com
AFT GOES BLING–Thom Duma Fine Jewelers Extends Partnership as Official Jeweler of Progressive American Flat Track Through 2028
Progressive American Flat Track is thrilled to announce the return of Thom Duma Fine Jewelers (TDFJ) as the Official Jeweler of Progressive AFT for the 2026–2028 seasons, extending one of the most enduring and meaningful partnerships in the paddock.
For nearly two decades, the TDFJ name has been etched (quite literally) into the legacy of the sport, crafting the championship rings that symbolize the grit, glory, and unrelenting drive of AFT’s greatest competitors. That tradition will continue as TDFJ once again creates custom championship rings for both the Mission AFT SuperTwins and AFT Singles presented by KICKER classes, celebrating each champion’s hard-fought triumph with a one-of-a-kind piece worthy of the title.
Beginning in 2026, TDFJ’s craftsmanship will reach even deeper into America’s Original Extreme Sport with an expanded slate of custom hardware. The jeweler will design and deliver new championship pendants honoring the title winners in AFT AdventureTrackers™, AFT ProSport 450™, and AFT StreetTrackers™, elevating the celebration for AFT’s fast-growing divisions and the rising stars who battle within them.
“Flat Track racing is in our blood, and honoring its champions is a privilege we don’t take lightly,” said Tommy Duma, owner of Thom Duma Fine Jewelers. “We’re excited to continue this tradition and celebrate every rider who earns their place in Flat Track Racing history.”
TDFJ’s motorsports heritage runs deep, with a family legacy rooted in racing and a longstanding commitment to elevating the athletes and culture of American Flat Track. Their designs have become iconic symbols of accomplishment, instantly recognizable, unmistakably premium, and built with the same precision and passion demanded on the racetrack.
Rev Up Your Holiday Gifting with TDFJ’s Racer Series Collection
Fans can wear their passion with the Racer Series Collection, a fully customizable lineup of racing-number pendants that make an ideal holiday gift for any flat track fanatic. Each piece is crafted in sterling silver (or 14-kt gold) to match your favorite rider’s number-plate font and comes with an 18/20″ chain.
Looking for something even more personal? TDFJ can customize virtually any shape or size—team logos, personal designs, or even your own racing number—available in your choice of metal and optionally accented with diamonds or gemstones for a truly one-of-a-kind piece.
Every piece is handcrafted to order. Simply email a photo of your chosen number plate to contact@tdfj.com and allow about two weeks for delivery. Make it personal. Make it legendary. Make it yours just in time for the holidays.
For more information on Progressive American Flat Track visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.
EVERY WEEK KNOCKS IT OUT OF THE BALLPARK–
It’s through tremendous luck and lots of friends we are making serious progress daily.
Yesterday our new art director came to our house to bring us poison cookies. We sent them to the lab to have ’em checked before we bite into one… We were shooting the shit and discussing the holidays when the UPS man arrived with a large heave box filled with the latest issue. We tore into them immediately.
As you can imagine, it’s an amazing experience to work as hard as we have to get here. Our first issue hits the stands this week. We are sharing major new developments including our amazing digital archives which come as a major portion of our Team Easyriders offer. We discovered we had every issue of Easyriders digitally archived and Chad, our web master was able to transfer almost 600 issues onto Easyriders.com. That 54 years of the Bikers’ Bible.
We were able to escape to the Number 10 Saloon for the employee Christmas Party. I don’t know how we got inside, but we did and had a blast.
Have a Merry Christmas.
–Bandit
