Hey,

Major announcement: The Bikernet Team is about to shift from the old, antiquated program to a new WordPress platform after almost a year of work transferring over 16,000 articles. Bottom line, no content from now until the end of next week. But then bada-bing we will be new and fresh and open for bigger business. Hang on.

Let’s hit the news: It’s going to be wild and way informative. Hang on!



The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.


The News was provided by the Bikernet Team including the Redhead, Bob T. Sam Burns, Laura, Barry Green, El Waggs, J.J. Solari, Amy White, Jenn and the rest of the crew.





INTERNAL COMBUSTION—A major hot topic from the Motorcycle Riders Foundation.

Recently, at both the state and federal levels, lawmakers have been fighting against the effort to kill the internal combustion engine (ICE). This past Friday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.J. Res 136. The vote was 215 in favor and 191 opposed. The resolution blocks an Environmental Protection Agency rule to more strictly regulate passenger vehicle tailpipe emissions and accelerate the transition to electric vehicles.

Whether it be a call to action, discussing it at Bikers Inside the Beltway, or our D.C. team lobbying on this issue, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) has pushed lawmakers for action on this and other legislation that would save ICE.

Congress can block rules and regulations from an agency such as NHTSA by passing a joint resolution of disapproval in both chambers, subject to a presidential veto. Once a rule is disapproved under this process, the agency cannot issue a similar regulation unless Congress passes a separate law allowing it. While the current U.S. Senate will likely not act on H.J. Res 136, one chamber of Congress continues to fight to save our ability to buy the engines we want.

Outside of D.C., the Ohio State Senate recently passed S.R. 155, their effort to go on the record and save the internal combustion engine. The resolution states: “To express support for consumer choice in the automotive marketplace and against government-preferred vehicle technology mandates that will harm Ohio's consumers by prematurely requiring the transition of the automotive fleet from internal combustion powered vehicles to all-electric vehicles.”

The Ohio Senate sent copies of the resolution to "the President of the United States, the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy, the Secretary of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Speaker and Clerk of the United States House of Representatives, the President Pro Tempore and Secretary of the United States Senate, the members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation, and the news media of Ohio.”

Actions like these in D.C., Ohio and other states demonstrate that lawmakers across the country are waking up on this topic. Luckily, the MRF never falls asleep on issues like this. Thank you for supporting the MRF and allowing us to be the watchdog for your rights.

Read the referenced legislation at these links:
US H. J. Res 136
Ohio S. R. 155





WE REACHED OUT TO A.J. VANCE FOR AN INTERVIEW—This week I wrote to the Governor of South Dakota, Kristi Noem:

I have two things I would like to discuss with you, but let’s hit the most important first. I have been trying to reach JD Vance for an interview.

I would like to cover the policy issues, the items the mainstream media seems to gloss over, except the border. He is very straightforward and I believe could explain to the public what they’re in for if we don’t get out and vote.

I’m a Sturgis resident and would like to host the interview in Sturgis. I’m a member of the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame more than once. I’m very involved with the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and I have been involved in Motorcycle journalism for over 50 years. Yep, I’m old.

I was told you might be able to help reach JD.


--Bandit






ROYAL ENFIELD CLASSIC 650-- Spotted In UK; India Launch Soon


Royal Enfield is all set to launch the Classic 650 in India, in the next couple of months. The motorcycle was spotted in Europe at a ride.

Expect Royal Enfield to launch the new Classic 650 in India in the next couple of months, at EICMA 2024. Price will probably be announced at Enfield MotoVerse (annual event at Goa) 2024.

It will be the fifth motorcycle to get the 648 cc parallel-twin engine setup after the Interceptor 650, Continental GT 650, Super Meteor 650 and the Shotgun 650.

Wayfarer predicts: Is this going to be the most affordable twin engine motorcycle by Enfield. Well, since Classic 350 model is the bread-and-butter of Enfield --the highest selling model they have had ever since they launched Classic 350 in India and overseas back in 2009---it seems likely that they will keep this one as the most accessible model in 650 segment of theirs as well. Thus enabling aspiring riders to feel the power and thrill of the twin exhaust, twin engine bike--tempting customers and their compatriots to test ride the various models in the 650 cc line-up

Refer details at
https://www.ndtv.com/auto/royal-enfield-classic-650-spotted-in-uk-india-launch-soon-6622076/amp/1


--Wayfarer
Associate Editor
Bikernet International News Bureau
India






MEETING OF THE MINDS PANEL DISCUSSION—The MRF board asked their panelist a simple question. “What keeps you up at night regarding legislative issues.”

I’ve read several carefully crafted contributions, and they covered most of the current dire legislative challenges.

Here’s my slant from the Black Hills of South Dakota, the outlaw homeland where brothers and sisters still roam free, where Wild Bill was shot and whorehouses were legal.

I’m kept up at night pondering the American dream restored, where legislators support freedom and love it. Where technology is thoroughly tested and vetted before a brother is harmed. I can’t let go of the dream that helmet choice is respected and riders fly across the land unchallenged by rogue authorities.

My mind roams through communities where the law is respected, the streets are clean, infrastructure repaired, folks are looked after and our freedoms are cherished. When I wake up, I smile knowing kids are comfortable and fully aware we are living in the best of times once more. I know it’s going to be the best day ever because we all came together for America.

--Bandit





BREAKING NEWS--Act Now: Massachusetts Introduces Bill to Allow On-Road Use of Imported Vehicles

The Massachusetts legislature introduced a bill (H.D. 5357) to allow on-road registrations to be issued for imported vehicles manufactured at least 25 years ago. Under federal law, these vehicles are exempt from federal safety and emissions standards.

--SEMA






S&S CYCLE NEWS-- Additions from the Masters of 'Proven Performance'­SuperStreet Exhaust for M-8 Softails

The latest out of the S&S house of horsepower is an all-stainless steel classic 2-1 style version of its popular SuperStreet exhaust for the Softail platform. Combining a stainless header with stainless shields and muffler make for a great look without the punishment of melting boots (like most of the other stainless systems).



S&S doesn't build anything unless it makes power, and the SuperStreet does exactly that with an average of +15% gain in hp out of the M-8 Softail models, combining that with the perfect length and angle, clearing bags, passenger pegs and forwards. Warranty-friendly and 50 state legal, fitments include 2018-2023 Street Bob, Low Rider, Softail Slim, Fat Bob, Deluxe, Sport Glide and Heritage models (standard chassis). Saddlebag supports compatible.

It works with OEM and similar size saddlebags (like Heritage or Sport Glide models). There are full heat shields on both front and rear, headers are brushed stainless steel, and there is a stainless steel stepped header construction. An S&S engineered high-performance catalyst brings legal performance to the street, with computer aided design and precision-bending for class-leading ground clearance.

The exhaust also features a multi-faceted, machined end cap design, and oxygen sensor ports allow use of wide band or stock O2 sensors. A passenger peg bracket is included (for the Fat Boy, FXDR and Breakout versions) - all others use OE Heritage location).




Grand National Slip-On for 2024 H-D X500 Models

The all-new Harley-Davidson X500 is a unique build. It is a 500 cc motorcycle that takes its styling cues from the lines of the new Sportster and comes stock with adjustable front and rear suspension.







MOTORCYCLING RACE HISTORY REDONE--The hat trick of wins at the first-ever Cremona WSBK round also carved his name deeply into the history books.

Danilo Petrucci took first a Superpole win, and then following it up with wins in both Race One and Race Two to truly seal the deal at his home WSBK round, Petrucci also entered brand new territory. There's only one racer in all of history now who's done what he's done, and it seems like that's unlikely to change any time soon.

What did he do that was so special, you ask? See, he just became the first racer ever to win in MotoGP, Dakar, MotoAmerica, and now World Superbike. That's all.

There's really not anyone else who's even attempted to run in all four of these series, the way that Petrux did.

Riders may ride but there is no guarantee that they'll be equally good at every discipline they attempt; or even good enough to win at one of them.

Petrucci's however has done it. He's won races (or in the case of Dakar, stages) in all four series. It's a testament to what a solid talent he is, and he and everyone who's supported him along the way should absolutely celebrate all of it.

with inputs from rideapart.com

--Wayfarer
International Race Editor
Bikernet News Desk
Mumbai





AN AUTOMOTIVE INVESTIGATION--
Ford’s new patent allows eavesdropping on the road

Automaker Ford’s new patent allows the car to eavesdrop on what’s being said by individuals aboard the vehicle for targeted advertising purposes. The carmaker would allow drivers and passengers to view targeted ads based on user data. The patent included being able to listen in on conversations inside the car.

See more on newstarget.
www.newstarget.com





LATEST FROM GREASY KULTURE--Issue one. Last few. (Really!)

We thought we'd never see this issue again, but we've just found a few more of the very first issue during a spring clean (in autumn!). New condition. If you want one, be quick. This really is the last of them.

We also found a few more super cool old Japanese titles to fill the gap before our new issue 101 launches end of next week!

If you're heading for the webstore, check out our big bundles and digest bundles for unbeatable back issue deals – plus lots more hard-to-find goodies in our collectibles attic!







FIRST QUOTE OF THE WEEK--
"Reputation is what others think about you. What’s far more important is character because that is what you think about yourself."

- Billie Jean King
1440 Daily Digest





New TECH Bikernet Reader Comment!--
RevTech DFO Performance System

https://www.bikernet.com/pages/RevTech_DFO_Performance_System.aspx

So, I have a 2001 Road King with straight pipe fishtails (no baffles) and stock air filter with outer cover off and my bike back fires constantly could you possibly send me tunes to help get it under control. It did it before I did anything to the bike but I’d rather try to get it right it would be very much appreciated


--Evan
Canadensis, PA

Check for exhaust leaks.

--Bandit







STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM NEWS—The new WordPress web site is coming together fast. Web sites demand fast and new content constantly. Schaarec and the staff including the Bikernet gang are working hard to keep it vibrant.



An AMCA Member approached me about exhibiting two fine Harley restorations in the Museum. I will share these photos with the Curation Committee, Sir Foss, the chairman in the next couple of weeks.



“This is Todd Wyant,” Todd said. “Here are few bikes that we could discuss putting in the Museum.
The picture of me on the pan was taken in the late ‘70s and was in the Easyriders mag for in the wind.. good times!”



We are working with a lifetime resident on a story about his 31 year Jackpine Gypsy Hill Climb record. We recently spoke to a member of the Jackpine Gypsy’s who offer us a sidecar ride around the half mile track.

Members of the staff and board will attend the next Sturgis City, Monday’s budget meeting. The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum is in the Budget and we need to make sure it stays there.



We received an RFP regarding expansion from Bob Wessel at Gustafson Contractors, which we have presented to the board for comment. I will then work up a report to submit back to Bob so we can refine the process to submit to contractor around the region and the city for their consideration.








HOW ABOUT A SIX-STROKE PORCHE ENGINE?--

The patented engine design features a special crankshaft that adds more power and compression strokes to the cycle.

Porsche has revealed a strange (and possibly brilliant) idea for a six-stroke combustion engine. If you don't know the fundamentals of an internal combustion engine, we'll try to keep this simple. If you do know how engines work ... we'll still try and keep it simple.

With very few exceptions every combustion-powered car uses a four-stroke engine: intake, compression, power, and exhaust. The intake stroke is where air and fuel come into the cylinder. Compression is when the piston pushes that mixture to the top of the cylinder. The mixture is ignited, shoving the piston back down for the power stroke. Exhaust is the final step, pushing the remaining gas out of the cylinder.

Porsche designers reckon they can add another compression and power stroke to this process. Documents filed with the US Patent and Trademark Office specifically describe this as "six individual strokes that can be divided into two three-stroke sequences." The added steps would occur between the traditional power and exhaust stroke. The first sequence, then, would be intake-compression-power, followed by compression-power-exhaust.



To do this, Porsche's patent shows a crankshaft spinning on a ring with two concentric circles—an annulus. This alternates the center point of rotation, effectively lowering the piston's travel (bottom dead center) slightly for the added strokes. That in turn changes the compression since the piston isn't traveling as far up (top-dead-center) in the cylinder. And that also means this engine has two top and bottom dead centers.

Why all the complexity? In short, this design has the potential to generate more power with better efficiency. In a typical engine, only one stroke in four actually makes power. This changes the formula to one stroke in three, and it also burns up the mixture more thoroughly. Of course, the downside is added complexity. Whether the gains are enough to justify the design remains to be seen.

--By Christopher Smith
Motor1.com

Note: The engine still has a turbo… I’m trying to get a handle on this. So, does it fire more often or does the additional stroke just build more compression?

--Bandit





THE WEEKLY HISTORY LESSON FROM COMPETITION DISTRIBUTING--Excerpt from Old Bike Barn

The credit for inventing hill climbing goes to the groundbreaking Indian Motorcycle Company. In the early 1900s, Indian would run their motorcycles up the steepest hills around the Springfield Massachusetts factory to prove that they were powerful enough to go over some of the roughest terrains.

These exhibitions started to gather an audience, especially since not every ride up the hill would go as planned, and the antics of falling riders were just too hard to ignore.

Within a few short years, these demonstrations turned into recurring events, and manufacturers like Triumph were also muscling in on the action and looking to challenge Indian in timed events. American stalwart's Harley-Davidson joined the Insanity around 1910 and quickly began to dominate the sport.

Yes, pushing a motorcycle at insane speeds up the hill became a sport. God Bless America.

--Competition Distributing







DIME BAG IN CYCLE SOURCE-- Glad to share with you that Ray Pan Man Senall Blue Shovel made the cover of Cycle Source Magazine this new month! That's great news.

Awesome to have my leatherwork on another cool chop published once again in Cycle Source Magazine.

Thanks for the support

--Adam Croft









NEW FROM WINDVEST-- 2024 Street Glide Replacement Windshields

Introducing the WindVest Replacement Windshields for the 2024 Street Glide
Looking for more wind, bug and rain protection on your new 2024 Street Glide? Want to hear your stereo better?

WindVest Motorcycle Windshields has the solution!

With our signature flip at the top of the windshield, these screens are designed to redirect the wind 3"-4" higher than their actual size.

Sizes available:
9 1/2"
10 1/2"
11 1/2"
12 1/2"

Colors available:
Clear
Light Smoke
Gun Smoke (dark)
Size Recommendation

Keep watching for updates on the WindVest Replacement Windshields for the 2024 Road Glide!!

Place your order today!
Call 408-762-7180 or
visit our website at www.windvest.com

email us with any questions
sales@windvest.com





WILD MOTORCYCLE WORLD TOURS--
Motorcycle Thailand with Himalayan Roadrunners. Get your adventure on!

--KOZ





THE FINE ART OF DANIAL JAMES REPORT—Danial James motorcycle and western art is featured in the magnificent Bandit’s 5-Ball Emporium in Sturgis, South Dakota. More originals are coming all the time.



Logos

Danial is capable of all types of logos and some are for the artists you know. He was David Uhl’s partner for 27 years. He is currently working on another logo for Scott Jacob’s new yacht.



Day of the Riding Dead

Watch out for this one. It might pop up in Bandit’s Emporium. He proposed it to Triumph and was turned down. Ouch. Let us know what you think.



Law Tigers

Danial was recently commissioned to create a fine art piece for Law Tigers and the 85th Sturgis Anniversary. This is an AI test using Shudder stock. Wild, but with Shudder stock, if you ask AI to create something it’s not yours. It becomes part of the SS Library of images.



Hang on for more reports.

--Bandit