Hey,

Another strange day in paradise. I woke up this morning with an ugly thought on my breath. Like the heavy whiskey days when you wondered, just what the hell did I say last night? So, I told a story last night, then pondered, was I out of line. Time will tell and shit will smell, right?

I often catch a vibe from the news items I collect leading up to Thursday. Sometimes I sense political upheaval, other times I sense a creative vibe. Of course it’s also the time of a full moon and it could get scary.

I also note the number of jokes contributed. If no jokes are forthcoming I get concerned about the state of our economy or political aura. It’s as if folks can’t think of a good joke because they have negative shit on their minds.

Well this week was the opposite. A batch of new, fresh jokes arrived, so that must mean Nirvana is on the rise. There is peace in our hearts and joy engulfs our minds. Keep the faith, goddammit.

Let’s hit the news:

The News is sponsored in part by the staff of Cycle Source Magazine.






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BREAKING NEWS: Harry Reid Corruption Behind Nevada Standoff--Yesterday, we were greeted with excellent news. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and other federal agencies have decided to stop seizing Clive Bundy’s cattle in Bunkerville, Nevada.

As I wrote yesterday, the BLM has been rounding up Bundy’s cattle to pay for the $1.1 Million of “grazing fees“ the government claims is owed. The purpose of these fees? To dissuade farmers and ranchers from using this PUBLIC land that also happens to be occupied by the endangered Desert Tortoise.

The BLM, in concert with other federal agencies, planned to sell Bundy’s cattle in order to pay his debt.

Well, yesterday, over 300 brave patriots showed up to the ranch off of I-15 in Nevada. The protesters and self-described militiamen showed up on horseback and carrying weapons ready to defend Clive Bundy and his family from what was a clear example of tyrannical government overreach. Armed protesters stood up against the government thugs, and the federal government blinked, showing restraint for once and staving off another potential “Waco” incident.

News broke yesterday that while the whole crisis, on paper, was over a turtle, there are other corporate interests at play, looking to gain access to the region’s water and mineral rights and other natural resources. And as usual, when an individual’s rights are being trampled for gain, the scandal goes all the way to the top and Sen. Harry Reid is at the center of it!

Tell Congress it must put an end to this cronyism and STOP Harry Reid’s corrupt Nevada land grab!

So here are the specifics. Evidence suggests that Harry Reid was using the BLM to bully ranchers like Clive Bundy off of the land in order to open the door for foreign investment and development.

The Director of the Bureau of Land Management, Neil Kornze, is a former Reid staffer. The allegation is that Harry Reid has been conspiring with the BLM for years to evict Bundy’s “trespass cattle” to open the door for Chinese investment and development of a solar farm.

Prior to this crisis, the BLM website explained that Clive Bundy’s “trespass cattle” were directly impeding on development in the region.

“Non-governmental organizations have expressed concern that the regional mitigation strategy for the Dry Lake Solar Energy Zone utilizes Gold Butte as the location for offsite mitigation for impacts from solar development, and that those restoration activities are not durable with the presence of trespass cattle,” the purged document says.

The BLM has been trying to create a large solar farm in Nevada and BLM Technical Note 444 shows that not only do Bundy’s cattle graze on this land, but Bundy’s property is also within the targeted area!

Back in 2012, it was reported that Harry Reid’s son Rory was the primary representative for ENN Energy Group, a Chinese company seeking to build a $5 Billion solar plant in Nevada.

So now we have a situation where Harry Reid’s son and former staffer may have been coordinating to evict an American rancher in order to open the door to Chinese investment. Harry Reid has denied participating in the deal, however multiple news organizations, including Reuters, have confirmed that Senator Harry Reid was influential in pushing for the deal! This is cronyism, plain and simple! To have the Majority Leader of the U.S. Senate conspiring with a foreign company to displace a hard-working American rancher is atrocious!

Tell Congress it must put an end to this nonsense and STOP Harry Reid’s Nevada land grab!

The American dream is under threat. Not because Americans are no longer working hard… We are working harder than ever to provide for our families. Yet, at every step of the way, the federal government tries to slap us down and restrict our upward mobility.

The allegations that Harry Reid is behind trying to put an American rancher out of business in order to line his pockets should infuriate you! The BLM used an endangered tortoise as an excuse to round up Clive Bundy’s cattle and kick him off public land. Before this crisis, the Bureau of Land Management was actually euthanizing the turtleson the land because they were too expensive to maintain! However, when the land became valuable to the solar industry, then the BLM used the technicality to try to evict Clive Bundy and seize his cattle! Instead of preserving the land as the agency claims, the Reid family is conspiring with a foreign company to develop the land for their profit!

This level of corruption is absolutely despicable! How many other government actions are fueled by congressmen and senators just trying to line their pockets? How many other examples of government tyranny and overreach are just manifestations of congressional greed?

This must end and Harry Reid must be held accountable for this! For the Majority Leader of the Senate to conspire with the Executive branch and a foreign company to put an American rancher out of business is UNACCEPTABLE!

Tell Congress it must put an end to this nonsense and STOP Harry Reid’s Nevada land grab!


--Joe Otto




THE RAKE AND TRAIL MYSTERY-- The factory FLH trees are running a -2.455 inch offset, add to that they have 4 degrees of rake from the factory in the trees . ran with a stock neck of 26 degrees and a 21" wheel ya get 7.3 inches of trail.

if ya change the rake to 35 ya get 9.5 inches

and at 40 ya get 12.24

would be like turning a freight train. and front end flop would be nasty

Hawg halters uses a 35 degree neck with 11 degree trees for a 23" tire for a trail of 6.13 which is what a softtail runs

the problem is from the factory trees running negative offset. If we run a set of Wideglide trees with a 40 degree rake ya get a trail of 4" which is about what the Shovel has.

I have learned more about touring frame geometry than I ever wanted to know.

--Richard Kranzler
Bikernet Baggers
1-360-259-6461
www.bikernetbaggers.com






UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY CALLS FOR MANDATORY HELMET LAW--  Recently the 68th session of the United Nations voted to approve a non-binding resolution entitled Improving Global Road Safety, which sounds innocent enough, but when closely examined, has some very disturbing ideas concerning motorcyclists, motorcycles, and helmet laws.


The most disturbing directive is to encourage Member States (countries participating in the UN) to enact comprehensive legislation on key risk factors for road traffic injuries including the non-use of helmets. Or in other words, universal mandatory global helmet law. Keep in mind this is a non-binding resolution, but many countries and legislative bodies take the UNs suggestions very seriously. This is the warning shot across the bow. The United Nations is coming for motorcyclists.

That is why it is so unfortunate that Americas own Permanent Representative to the United Nations, and a member of President Obama's Cabinet voted in support of the resolution. She even spoke to the General Assembly in strong support of the resolution.


The non-binding resolution has some other very troubling issues with regards to motorcyclists. For instance, one of the directives claims that there are insufficient policies in place to protect motorcyclists. The idea that one type of policy would work for every country in the United Nations is beyond fantasy. Our diverse global motorcycle community cannot exist under a one-size fit all approach.


Another section of the resolution recognizes and commends The UN Economic Commission for Europe and the World Forum for the Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations to modify vehicle regulations to increase safety. This is essential in the UN calling for global harmonization of policy that could include helmet laws and universal vehicle anti-tampering measures. Both of these would devastate the motorcycle community and aftermarket industry in America.


It is a clear picture of the mindset of the UN to support such an over-reaching resolution. By muddying the waters with controversial policies, the UN loses support for some very good ideas concerning distracted driving and Good Samaritan policies.


The MRF is engaged on this and will keep you informed about this issue.







BRAND New Bikernet Reader Comment!-- S&S Twin Cam Gear Drive Set Installed

http://www.bikernet.com/pages/story_detail.aspx?id=1800

This is the best write-up I've found regarding not only the install of the S&S gear driven cams, but also the major differences between the S&S setup and stock.

Regarding the tensioner "shoe" on the stock setup: Why would H-D ever use a plastic bushing as a major engine component knowing these failures can and will occur? How much more difficult would it have been to simply put a tensioner gear in its place. Yes, it would still have the inefficiencies of the chain, but there wouldn't be small chunks of debris being pulled off and unexpected tensioner failure causing major engine damage.

I had an opportunity to "play" with both setups at the S&S booth at AZ Bike Week a couple weeks ago. The difference in parasitic loss is astounding. Not to mention all the other previously mentioned benefits.

Keep the great articles coming!

--John T
Two or More Races (Not Hispanic or Latino), AZ






SADDLEMEN AQUIRES PHANTOM PAD-- Another Quality Product Added to the Saddlemen Fleet.

Saddlemen, a leader in high-quality aftermarket seats, luggage and accessories for all types of motorcycles, has acquired exclusive rights of Phantom Pad products, the innovator of removable suction cup passenger seats. Saddlemen will immediately start manufacturing the complete line of Phantom Pad products. Phantom Pad becomes the third company owned and operated by Saddlemen, with All American Rider and American Kargo being the other two.

“The addition Phantom Pad has been a step in the right direction for Saddlemen. With companies like Phantom Pad, All American Rider and American Kargo we are able to give consumers what they want; more variety and quality products. It’s an exciting time to be here at Saddlemen,” states CEO David Echert.

Phantom Pad brings an array of highly crafted suction cup mounted motorcycle passenger pads to the Saddlemen family. The exclusive Phantom Pad suction cups are non-abrasive and designed with dual cavity and quick tabs. Unique features such as neoprene fender liner, an injection mold, ABS base plate and shock absorbing orthopedic memory molding foam are all components found in every standard Phantom Pad.

All Saddlemen products, along with their sister brands; All American Rider, American Kargo and Phantom Pad are available exclusively through Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties dealers. To learn more about Saddlemen and their other quality brands visit www.saddlemen.com.







in the case of appetite loss I drink white wine,

in the case of low blood pressure I drink red wine,

in the case of high blood pressure I drink scotch,

and when I have a cold I drink schnapps."

"When do you drink water?"

"I've never been that sick!"

--from Robin Hartfield




THE BENEFITS OF UPHOLDING THE DHARMA—In Buddhism the five precepts are the equivalent of the commandments. They are: No Killing, Stealing, Lying, Sexual Misconduct, and Intoxication.

Here are the benefits:

If we do not take life but protect it, we will naturally have health and long life. If we do not steal and instead practice giving, we will enjoy wealth and good standing. If we do not engage in sexual misconduct and instead respect the integrity of others, we will have a happy and a harmonious family. If we do not lie but praise others, we will gain a good reputation. If we do not drink and stay away from the temptations of drugs, we will naturally have good health and wisdom.

By upholding the Five Precepts, we can eliminate our suffering, afflictions, and fear in this lifetime, and gain the freedom, peace, harmony, and joy of body and mind--SIMPLE

--Dr.Feng -




Motorcycle Riders Foundation Champion Representative Tom Petri to Retire--The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) reports that long time MRF supporter, Tom Petri (R-WI), will not seek another term in Congress. This will be the last term the 35-year Capitol Hill veteran will serve. The 73-year-old congressman has been popular with his home district, sailing to re-election year after year. Petri was first elected in 1979.


Petri led the charge of the full repeal of the helmet law mandate in the mid nineties at the request of ABATE of Wisconsin and the MRF. Petri has chaired various subcommittees on the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

We at the MRF will miss his dedication, leadership, and generosity that he has bestowed upon the motorcyclists of this country.







DRAG SPECIALTIES SATIN BLACK OUTER PRIMARY COVERS--Problem: your primary cover is dinged and scuffed, and your buddies constantly joke about them being ugly.

Solution: the smooth, satin black finish and sturdy durability of these outer primary covers, only from Drag Specialties®. With their rugged, die-cast aluminum construction, you can trust that these covers offer protection as good as their looks.

Starter shaft bushings are included; seals and other components sold separately. These covers can fit a range of H-D® Softail and Dyna models. Suggested retail price is $249.95.


For more information, go to www.dragspecialties.com or contact your local
Drag Specialties dealer.


HARLEY-DAVIDSON AND MARVEL JOIN FORCES in National Search for Real-Life Fan to Star in New Digital Franchise--Iconic Brand Reunites with Marvel to Debut new Street 750, Cast Mini-Movie and Digital Comic via National Contest

Harley-Davidson and Marvel Entertainment, LLC, have teamed up once again to defend freedom and tame explosive city streets in – and beyond – the popular film franchise, Marvel’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Since the early days of Captain America, he has been associated with Harley-Davidson, and the latest chapter of the film saga is no different as the Super Hero now revs up a brand new Harley-Davidson Street 750.

To unite fans of both brands, Harley-Davidson is seeking candidates to join Captain America as “Agent 1” and star in a brand-new digital franchise, which will introduce a new chapter of action, including a group of characters created by Marvel’s Custom Division exclusively for Harley, and feature the new Harley-Davidson Street 750. The mini-movie and digital comic will debut in Marvel and Harley-Davidson online and social channels this summer.

“Our collaboration with Marvel puts fans directly into the center of the action like never before,” said Dino Bernacchi, Harley-Davidson U.S. Director of Marketing. “Starring as the hero in this new chapter with Marvel is not only the new Street 750 – but a real-life fan as well. The Street’s features are right in line with the authenticity, toughness, action and individualism for which Captain America is known and revered by fans around the world, and sourcing our new hero directly from that pool is equally as real and authentic.”

Digital Casting Call

To enter the Harley-Davidson Captain America: The Winter Soldier online contest, special agent hopefuls are invited to complete an online skills assessment and select a custom bike of their choice at www.h-d.com/marvel. After completing the assessment, each candidate receives a badge and special promotional offer. Legal residents of the United States who are at least 18 years of age can enter now through April 30.

One grand prize winner will not only land the role as the eponymous “Agent 1,” they also will rule the streets with a brand new custom Harley-Davidson Street 750 motorcycle and a rider training course, including a stunt riding lesson with Marvel’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier stunt rider Riley Harper.

The Street 750 and Street 500 from Harley-Davidson, the latest additions to Harley-Davidson’s Dark Custom line-up, feature the all-new liquid-cooled Revolution X engine, housed in a narrow and lean chassis built for agility. New suspension and a broad handlebar sweep provide the confidence and maneuverability you need when managing tight turns and fast moves in defense – or pursuit of – freedom. It also has the premium, minimalist Dark Custom style that serves as a blank canvas for riders to customize.




UNCLE MONKEY REFLECTS ON CHANGING TRENDS IN CANADA--Though I was only a wee lad back in the ‘70s, I've always been into cars and bikes. It was a glorious time of funked out vans, chopped, slammed, stretched and covered in the longest shag carpet around.

Bikes didn't escape the madness. A stroll down memory lane of the creations of builds like Arlen Ness and others proved multi-engine, twisted and psychedelic paint jobs were where the edge of sanity no longer existed. But like all trends and fashions things come and go. Early this millennium brought back the return of the long drawn out choppers making household names of builders like Billy Lane and the Teutuls.

Today it seems we have flashed back to the swinging ‘70s. Vans are making a comeback and there seems to be a whole underground "hardcore" chopper faction of builders and riders chopping and bobbing everything and anything. They are donning greasy jeans and denim vests with wild greasy long beards. Those striving to be the next generation of master builders have thrown out the rule book.

Everything is a go now with an overwhelming focus on personal hand-built one-off bikes. It will only be a matter of time before it is commercialized, sanitized and spit out for consumption but right now, today, is a Golden Era to be building bikes.

Weird and eccentric is the normal now. We accept it as a culture not just in bikes but everything. The freak show tattoo lady of the past is now every college girl, if you don't have at least some body modification you are now the freak in our Bizzaro World.

So embrace your freak flag. Run what you want, run what you can. Bolt on that kitchen sink, road kill bones and mannequin legs because this window will only stay open for so long.

-bad Uncle Monkey





BIKERNET EASTER MESSAGE—Breakfast will never be the same…

--Buckshot




BIKERNET BAD JOKE LIBRARY OPEN-- Two couples were playing poker one evening.

Jim accidentally dropped some cards on the floor. When he bent down under the table to pick them up, he noticed Bob's wife,

Sue wasn't wearing any underwear under her dress!

Shocked by this, Jim upon trying to sit back up again, hit his head on the table and emerged red-faced.

Later, Jim went to the kitchen to get some refreshments. Bob's wife followed and asked, 'Did you see anything that you like under there?

Surprised by her boldness, Jim admitted that, well indeed he did.

She said, 'Well, you can have it but it will cost you $500. 'After taking a minute or two to assess the financial and moral costs of this offer,

Jim confirms that he is interested.

Sue told him that since her husband Bob worked Friday afternoons and Jim didn't, Jim should be at her house around 2 p.m. Friday afternoon.

When Friday rolled around, Jim showed up at Bob's house at 2 p.m sharp - and after paying Sue the agreed sum of $500 - they went to the bedroom and closed their transaction, as agreed.

Jim quickly dressed and left.

As usual, Bob came home from work at 6 p.m. And upon arriving, asked his wife:
'Did Jim come by the house this afternoon?'

With a lump in her throat Sue answered 'Why yes, he did stop by for a few minutes this afternoon.'

Her heart nearly skipped a beat when her husband curtly asked, 'And did he give you $500?'

Sue, using her best poker face, replied, 'Well, yes, in fact he did give me $500.'

Bob, with a satisfied look on his face, surprised his wife by saying, 'He came by the office this morning and borrowed $500 from me.

He promised he'd stop by our house this afternoon on his way home and pay me back.'

Now THAT, my friends, is a poker player!!

--from Rogue