Hey,
I went to dinner with some excited folks. I now own a Captain America and Billy bike built by Mil Blair and refurbished in 2019. We decided to go get ’em and film the ride back to Sturgis. This group included our new girl in Sturgis, her husband and son. They were very excited and fulla ideas, but when I said, “Who’s going to organize this production?”
They’re response was, “We thought you would handle it.” Holy shit, I started to make notes. The Redhead immediately researched Go-pro cameras and drones. We will jump in our Nissan hightop van, hook up the trailer and drive, maybe in May.
We will load up tools, points, fresh batteries and go find our bikes. And we need to have them titled in South Dakota.
We finished dinner in the Knuckle Saloon, then stepped into the next massive room where we watched the indoor bull-riding action. We’ve been twice and it was packed, even if it was snowing outside.
Here’s my Lithium story. Lithium batteries scare me. I’ve read a lot of stories of fires. When Randy tuned the King bike he recommended a Lithium battery. I pulled it as we made modifications and I rewired the King Chopper built by the ten greats for the Biker Build-Offs in the ’90s.
Last weekend I stuck it back in and attempted to fire the beast. It wasn’t happy and I may have smoked that battery. I dug around and discovered a ground wire that slipped off the bolt before it fully attached. That ground wire made all the difference.
Then I researched charging Lithium batteries and Grok vs. standard batteries. Seems there is a difference and it’s good to have a Lithium charger. Also Groked charging from your alternator vs. cell batteries. You need to read this. So, I pulled one battery, but recently someone gave me this 400 amp Lithium. I finally unwrapped it and was blown away by the quality. Maybe tonight I’ll install it and give it a go.
Something else came up recently. Two brothers, industry leaders have come down with Parkinsons disease. It’s nasty, and I happen to know another brother who recently had an implant operation. It relieved all his Parkinsons symptoms. I hooked everyone up. It’s amazing what happens, when you find the correct resources.
Let’s hit the news:
EXTENDED PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY COMING–The Motorcycle Industry Needs to Prepare.
Battery and packaging laws being enacted state by state could require manufacturers, distributors, and/or dealers to fund and manage recycling programs for products they sell.
The policy model behind these laws is known as Extended Producer Responsibility, or EPR. It shifts some end-of-life management costs from governments to producers, and in practice can mean mandatory participation in stewardship organizations, reporting requirements, registration with state agencies, and financial contributions tied to covered products.
“Companies selling in multiple states should assume this warrants review,” said Scott Schloegel, MIC Senior Vice President of Government Relations. “The right time to understand exposure and ways to address new EPR laws is before implementation deadlines arrive.”
MIC will examine battery stewardship and the broader expansion of EPR policy during an upcoming symposium on Extended Producer Responsibility, featuring MIC’s Government Relations team and experts from Redwood Materials. The session will take place on April 9 at 10 a.m. PDT (1 p.m. EDT) and is free for MIC members ($50 for non-members). Learn more and register here.
–MIC
DIRECT FROM COMPETITION DISTRIBUTING–Kickstarts & Chronicles:
The Forgotten Racer Who Won 7 International Motorcycle Titles, Ray Tauscher
Article From ADV Rider
If you’ve never heard of Ray Tauscher, you are not alone. Ray was born in Portland, Oregon, in 1905. He grew up on Portland’s local streets. In high school, he was a multi-sport athlete. Ray competed in weightlifting, wrestling, and golf, ultimately becoming a weightlifting champion.
As an early 20th-century “thrill seeker,” Ray and his brother Jack enjoyed attention from the media for stunts like skydiving and motorcycle polo. But in 1920, Ray began riding motorcycles in earnest. Inspired by the racing at a local 1/2-mile dirt track called the Gresham Speed Bowl, by 1923, Ray was entering local speedway races. That year, he went on to win the regional championship.
With that title under his belt, Ray was recruited in 1929 by the London Star newspaper to travel and race motorcycles in England. Once there, Ray set a new one-lap speed record at Wembley stadium of 36.81 mph.
In December of 1930, Ray won the World Dirt Track Derby in Brisbane, Australia, at the Davies Park Speedway. Then, in 1931, Ray went on a winning tear.
On February 14, 1931, he entered and won the Australian Solo Championship at the Wayville Showground in Adelaide, Australia. Returning to England, he stunned the speedway racing world by winning the Star Speedway Rider’s Cup at Wembley stadium in front of 80,000 cheering fans.
Not to be stopped, Ray continued racing against Europe’s best riders. That year he won the German, French, Danish, and Italian championships. By this time, Ray’s accomplishments become well known. His skills are noted throughout the European press, which credits him with four international championship titles in a 12-month period.
TWO WINNERS, INTENSE BATTLES AND HISTORY MADE AT BAGGER WORLD CUP OPENER IN AUSTIN–
The opening round of the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup delivered intense on-track battles and dramatic moments at the Circuit of the Americas, as the new global championship in partnership with MotoGP™ officially came to life alongside the MotoGP™ Grand Prix of the Americas.
Both the races of the weekend were fought until the final laps, producing the first two winners in the history of the category. Archie McDonald (Joe Rascal Racing) claimed victory in Race 1 on Saturday, while Oscar Gutiérrez (Niti Racing) secured the win in Race 2 on Sunday.
Race 1
At the start of the first race in championship history, young Australian Archie McDonald launched perfectly from the grid, getting the better of teammate Eric Granado, who had secured pole position in qualifying with a lap time of 2:12.387.
The battle between the two intensified at mid-race, with Granado taking the lead after a mistake from McDonald. However, the Australian responded shortly after, reclaiming the position when Granado lost the front under braking and dropped back through the field.
Jake Lewis (Saddlemen Race Development) delivered a strong and consistent ride to take second place, showcasing experience and control across the race distance, while Filippo Rovelli (ParkinGO Team) secured third with a composed and disciplined performance to round out the podium.
Race 2
McDonald and Granado were once again protagonists at the start of Race 2, with the Australian repeating his strong launch off the line. The two Joe Rascal Racing riders immediately set a fast pace, but were unable to break away from Oscar Gutiérrez (Niti Racing), who steadily increased his rhythm lap after lap. The Spanish rider closed the gap and executed two clean overtakes to take the lead, going on to secure victory at the checkered flag.
On lap five, Gutiérrez also set a new benchmark for the category at the Austin circuit with a time of 2:12.348, establishing both the race lap record and the all-time lap record for the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup at Circuit of the Americas.
Second at the finish line was Archie McDonald, but a three-second penalty for failing to complete the prescribed Long Lap after twice exceeding track limits dropped the Australian to third in the final classification, promoting Eric Granadoto second.
Jeffrey Schuessler – Director of Global Racing Programs, Harley-Davidson
“This weekend delivered exactly what we set out to build. Close racing, battles decided in the final laps, and riders pushing these machines to the limit from the very start. The level of competition showed up immediately, and that’s a strong indication of where this championship is headed.
We also saw different riding styles coming together on track, with riders finding their own way to be fast on these bikes. That created some really interesting race dynamics and showed how competitive and adaptable this grid already is from the first round.
What’s been especially powerful is the global nature of the championship, with riders and teams from different parts of the world coming together to be part of something new. That’s a significant step forward for the series.
And then there’s the emotion. You feel it in the sound, the torque, and the presence of these bikes on track. It’s raw, it’s different, and it’s real. This is not just racing. We’re building something new here, a global platform that brings a different kind of energy to the MotoGP stage and connects with fans in a way that is authentic to Harley-Davidson.”
Archie McDonald – Joe Rascal Racing
Race 1 Winner
“History. That’s the first word that comes to my mind. It was the first race in the history of the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup, and I took the first win, hopefully the first of many. I’m really happy. There has been a lot of preparation behind this project, from myself, the team and Harley-Davidson, so this result feels amazing. I had a strong start, even if leading early wasn’t ideal. Granado passed me after a mistake, I stayed with him, and then he made a mistake and I took the lead again. My plan was to wait until the final laps to make a move, but in the end I didn’t need to. I’m sorry about Eric’s crash, as it’s not the way I wanted to win, but I’m still enjoying the moment. I’m really proud of my team and Harley-Davidson for making history with me, and I thank them all.”
Oscar Gutiérrez – Niti Racing
Race 2 Winner
“I’m very happy with this win. We did a great job regaining our focus after Race 1, and this was the best way to finish the Austin weekend. Already this morning I felt we had the potential to do it. I had a great feeling with the bike from the sighting lap and told my team that today was the right day. During the race I took my time to study Archie and Eric in front of me and understand where I could attack them. Then there was a moment when I clearly felt stronger, so I decided to increase the pace and make my moves. It’s a great victory, but we need to keep working well because the championship may look short, but it is still long with many races to go. We are already looking ahead to Mugello and continuing on this path. One area where I still need to improve is the start. At the beginning of the race I had to push to recover because McDonald and Granado started very strong. But I knew that if I stayed calm I could come back, and that’s what I did. I stayed patient for a couple of laps, then when I felt I had more pace I made the overtakes and in the end took a win that makes me very happy.”
Following the opening round, Archie McDonald leads the championship standings with 41 points, ahead of Oscar Gutiérrez and Jake Lewis, both on 33 points.
Championship Standings:
Archie McDonald (AUS) – 41 (25 / 16)
Oscar Gutiérrez (SPA) – 33 (8 / 25)
Jake Lewis (USA) – 33 (20 / 13)
Eric Granado (BRA) – 30 (10 / 20)
Filippo Rovelli (ITA) – 27 (16 / 11)
Cory West (USA) – 23 (13 / 10)
Travis Wyman (USA) – 11 (11 / -)
Cody Wyman (USA) – 9 (9 / -)
Dimas Ekky Pratama (INA) – 9 (- / 9)
The next round of the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup will take place at the Mugello International Circuitduring the MotoGP™ Grand Prix of Italy, from May 29–31.
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK–2022 Harley-Davidson Nightster for Sale
Newer and better than before the Revolution motor makes this Nightster one to be unforgotten!
Stock# 14322A
2022 Harley Davidson Nightster RH975 with 7,715 miles!
There’s no room for error on this 2022 Nightster and Lifestyle Cycles is just waiting for the right person to come through our doors and ride off with one badass bike!
* 19-Inch Front and 16-Inch Rear Satin Black Wheels
* 975 CC Revolution Max Motor
* Liquid Cooled
* Mid Controls
* Wrinkle Black 2 into 1 Exhaust
* Low Profile 27-Inch Seat
* Brembo Front and Rear Brakes
* Stock Rear Adjustable Suspension
* Showa 41 Millimeter Dual Bending Forks
* 4-Inch TFT Display with added features such as Bluetooth, USB port, and Safety Display Settings
This bike is only $7,495.00
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 92-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/
PAUL SMITH HEADING INTO THE HALL OF FAME–
Paul Smith is the graphic designer whose visionary work permanently shaped the visual identity of Harley-Davidson and defined the imagery of American motorcycling. In 1974, while working as a freelance artist commissioned by AMF/Harley-Davidson, he created the Eagle on the Bar-and-Shield, a bold fusion of Americana and Harley heritage that has become one of the most recognizable motorcycle graphics in the world. Originally designed for the 1976 Bicentennial Liberty Edition motorcycles, Smith’s creation transcended its initial purpose, coming to symbolize the company’s brand throughout the critical “buy-back” years and continuing to influence its image today.
Smith operated his own art studio beginning in 1964 and maintained an independent freelance career through 2014, contributing numerous graphics and illustrations to Harley-Davidson over three decades. His freelance status reflects both his independence as an artist and the breadth of his professional career.
The Eagle graphic became far more than decoration; it evolved into an international symbol of freedom, appearing across Harley-Davidson products, corporate branding, advertising, and enthusiast culture and even permanently inked on riders worldwide. Through a single, iconic design, Paul Smith embedded Harley-Davidson into the global visual landscape and helped cement its legacy as “The Great American Freedom Machine.” His work not only defined an era of corporate resurgence but also created one of the most enduring and recognizable trademarks in motorcycling history.
A long-time member of the Uglys Motorcycle Club, Smith’s connection to motorcycle culture extends far beyond the studio and into the riding community itself.
“We must have ideals and try to live up to them, even if we never quite succeed. Life would be a sorry business without them.”
—Lucy Maud Montgomery
THE LATEST FROM BAKER DRIVETRAIN– The BAKER Comptimizer Heavy-Duty Compensator Spring
Your drivetrain is only as strong as its weakest link. Introducing the BAKER Comptimizer Heavy-Duty Compensator Spring—an American-made upgrade designed to optimize power delivery for 2007-later Softail and Touring models, as well as 2006-2017 Dynas*. For just $69.95, this heavy-duty outer spring provides the increased torsional absorption capacity needed to handle real-world torque and horsepower, resulting in a quieter, more refined ride for both stock and performance-built machines.
To get the most out of this upgrade, we recommend installing the Comptimizer before excessive wear develops on your OEM sprocket or outer ramp. While it’s the perfect way to enhance performance and increase longevity on your Big Twin, it’s designed to support and protect healthy components rather than revive failed assemblies.
The BAKER Advantage:
Smoother Ouieter Operation: Precision-engineered to control excess compensator free play and resulting shudder during take-off
Confident Starts: Controls initial “wind up” for cleaner, more reliable starting performance with less kickback
Maximum Durability: Minimizes wear on sprocket and ramp when combined with serviceable components
Direct Upgrade: A simple, cost-effective replacement for the OEM outer spring (83936-09A).
Easy to install: Simply replaces the outer spring.
Made in the USA: Quality American-made part.
PROGRESSIVE AMERICAN FLAT TRACK NEWS– sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, today announced Memphis Shades as the entitlement sponsor of the Ventura Short Track on April 25 and the presenting sponsor of Nashville Short Track on June 6.
The Memphis Shades Ventura Short Track brings flat track to Ventura Raceway on April 25, delivering the world’s best motorcycle riders to the ocean front property. The Nashville Short Track presented by Memphis Shades will take the series to Sons of Speed Nashville Short Track on June 6, bringing bar-to-bar racing to one of the series’ most vibrant markets.
“Memphis Shades is excited to be part of American Flat Track. From supporting riders to being trackside, we believe in the impact racing has on the motorcycle community,” said Hillary Combest, Director of Sales and Marketing. “We’re proud to return as a sponsor of the Ventura Short Track and to be part of the Nashville Short Track in our home state of Tennessee this summer. We’re looking forward to both events and continuing to support the sport and its riders.”
Memphis Shades is known for its American-made motorcycle windshields and fairings, with a reputation built on quality craftsmanship and rider-focused design. Its continued investment in Progressive American Flat Track reflects a shared commitment to performance and the motorcycling community.
For more information about Memphis Shades, visit https://memphisshades.com/aft.
Next Up
The 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season continues with the Memphis Shades Ventura Short Track at Ventura Raceway on April 25.
For tickets to Memphis Shades Ventura Short Track, visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-ventura-short-track-168769.
THERE’S NEVER A DULL MOMENT–
I have a mantra when it comes to Easyriders. It could be foolish, but it’s my mantra just the same. It’s basically the first cover we did, Forged in Freedom.
The most important element in life is to be able to create something bigger than ourselves. Like I explained to Paul James; Harley is way more than a manufacturing company making motorcycles. I believe Easyriders is way more than a magazine publishing company. It’s about a culture, the Code of the West, Freedom and romance.
It’s not about just jobs, titles and money. It’s about a lifestyle that represents the open road, creativity and adventure. That’s why I’m here. I don’t give a shit if I make a dime, Easyriders needs to keep going and on the right path…
We may have discovered John’s issue with shifting, the linkage. He replaced his goofy linkage he had with a re-pop replica. We’re getting close.
In the meantime, ride free forever.
–Bandit
