It’s Incredible and Started Almost a Week Early!
Hey,
I’m going to ramble like a carny hawker today. The rally fired up last weekend with massive crowds, while vendors scrambled to hoist their tents. Almost a week prior to major events brothers and sisters rolled into the region ready to party.
I attended the very moving flag raising ceremony at the Chip to honor fallen veterans and the crowd filled the engine bar and surrounding area. Anxious brothers and veterans collected over 800 flags and carefully placed them on posts. We saluted, said the pledge out loud, listened to inspiring speeches by local dignitaries and thanked god we’re Americans.
It’s amazing and unique in the history of man. And I’m proud and honored to be a member of the military for a short period of time during the Vietnam era. Hang on for this report.
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: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.
Bikers gather in support of good causes all over the country. Some say if the total funds raised in any given year were ever totaled, it would max out higher than the GDP of a small nation!
This year, at the 85th Annual Sturgis Rally, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame challenges riders to leave some good behind in the Black Hills after they’ve headed home: in the form of peanut butter. The inaugural Peanut Butter Drive, sponsored by the Museum and Bling Devas MC, aims to gather a literal ton of peanut butter during Rally week. The peanut butter will be distributed by Feeding South Dakota, a partner of Feeding America.
Why peanut butter? It’s shelf stable, packed with protein, and liked by both kids and adults. In fact, it’s the most requested item at food banks nationwide!
Drop-off locations during Rally week include: Bandit’s Emporium and Black Hills Rally & Gold – both on Main Street in Sturgis, The Sidekick Saloon on Lazelle Street, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum on the corner of Junction and Main Streets, where collection bins will be placed.
Bring a jar to any drop-off location or buy a jar at the Museum gift shop and toss it in the bin. Easier still, scan the code on the flyer to reach our Amazon page and in a couple of clicks, your purchase is on the way directly to Feeding South Dakota.
–Marilyn Stemp
Editor:
•Iron Trader News
•Kiwi Indian E-News
•Flying Piston Benefit
Marilynstemp@gmail.com
828-205-8482
AUGUST 8, JACKPINE GYPSIES RIDE-IN BIKE SHOW AND TT RACES–
Join us for a night of high-flying racing while showing off your pride-and-joy at the Jackpine Gypsies Super TT on Thursday, August 8, 2025 in Sturgis, SD! Before the racing takes over the track, roll into the Ride-In Bike Show hosted by V-Twin Daily, where your ride could take home serious bragging rights and cash.
Awards for:
- Best of Show
- Best Paint
- Best Bagger
- Best Clubstyle
- AFT Best Tracker
$2,500 in cash up for grabs, courtesy of BELL!
Location: 1216 Short Track Road, Sturgis, SD
Gates open at 4:30 PM – Get there early to enter and check out the festivities!
This is your shot to show off your build, enjoy epic flat track racing, and maybe even walk away a winner. Don’t miss the most exciting night of Sturgis Rally week! See you at the track!
TEXAS WEATHER REPORT–
So I bought one of those portable machine shop systems. Has a 2n1 Mill-Lathe combo, depending on which way you turn the 2×4. Precision grinding work, metal shaping and can even crack your nuts.
Pecans, pronounced PA-CON, NOT PEE-can. And Yes that is a Betavision you see, I’m willing to part with it for the right price.
—RFR-FXR Life
BARNETT CLUTCHES EXPLAINED—
With 100% more surface area than stock and multiple spring options to tune it to your preference, our Scorpion performance clutch is exactly what your motorcycle needs.
Proudly designed and produced in the USA
MAKE GAS CANS GREAT AGAIN– by Improving Flow
From the EPA Press Office
Recently, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued letters to portable fuel container (PFC or gas can) manufacturers encouraging them to add vents to gas cans to ensure safe and effective refueling. This announcement comes in response to years of complaints about slow, frustrating fuel flow from modern gas cans. With this reminder to manufacturers to incorporate self-closing vented designs, EPA wants to help make it easier and faster for Americans to refuel.
“Part of Powering the Great American Comeback means ensuring manufacturers have the clarity and encouragement to deliver products Americans want,” said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. “The confusion surrounding gas cans has been a frustration for years. We are proud to address this issue head on. Moving forward, Americans should have gas cans that are compliant, but most importantly, that are effective and consumer friendly.”
Today’s letter is part of EPA’s broader effort to address the issue of regulatory confusion and accurately communicate to make sure manufacturers and the public understand EPA’s requirements. This will clear the way for manufacturers and consumers to be able to produce and use gas cans that are safe, compliant, and consumer friendly.
Background
In 2007, EPA finalized a rule requiring PFC manufacturers to reduce evaporative emissions by sealing in gasoline vapors. These rules took effect in 2009 and specifically allow vents as long as they close automatically when not in use. Due to widespread confusion, many manufacturers stopped installing vents altogether.
In 2008, Congress passed the Children’s Gasoline Burn Prevention Act, requiring that gas cans be child-resistant, similar to a prescription bottle cap. These child resistance rules led to many of the spring-loaded, hard-to-use nozzles. This is enforced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
In 2020, Congress enacted the Portable Fuel Container Safety Act, also enforced by CPSC, which mandated flame mitigation devices in cans to prevent flashback ignition. This further complicated nozzle and spout designs.
EPA’s evaporative emissions standards were designed to protect public health without compromising usability.
42nd Annual Whitewood Social Hour — During Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) is calling on all motorcyclist rights advocates and freedom-loving riders to come together in solidarity at the Whitewood Social Hour International Motorcyclists Rights Gathering hosted by A.B.A.T.E of South Dakota during the legendary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
Date: August 7th
Time: 12:00pm to 3:30pm
Location: Whitewood City Park
The Whitewood Social Hour has long been a cornerstone event for those who believe in defending and advancing the rights of motorcyclists across the nation. This is more than a social gathering; it’s a rallying point for advocates who understand that protecting the future of motorcycling requires unity, visibility, and shared purpose.
This event is a time to reconnect, recharge and recommit to the fight for motorcyclist rights at the state and federal levels. Hear from leaders with the MRF, Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket and State Motorcyclists Rights chapters from around the country.
The MRF invites all freedom-fighting riders who have lobbied lawmakers, fought helmet mandates, stood up against motorcyclist profiling and other important issues to gather, connect, and celebrate the power of grassroots advocacy.
This year, make Whitewood part of your Sturgis tradition.
Join the MRF and fellow defenders of the road for a meaningful afternoon of networking, camaraderie, and shared mission.
Trump Signs Bill to Prevent Veteran Home Foreclosures
The government estimates that 60,000 American veterans are at risk of losing their homes. The Trump administration is doing something about it.
The president signed legislation to empower the Department of Veterans Affairs to help prevent the foreclosure of veterans’ homes on Wednesday, stating that the program could benefit as many as 3.7 million retired service members.
The bill’s Congressional summary outlines its provisions. Among them is the authorization of “the VA to pay the holder of a loan guaranteed by the VA an amount necessary to avoid the foreclosure of the loan, provided that the holder of the loan and the veteran obligated on the loan execute documents to ensure the VA obtains a secured interest in the property covered by the loan.”
“Thanks to this bill, the Department of Veterans Affairs will be empowered to pay loan holders the necessary amount to prevent foreclosures on our veterans, so our veterans won’t be foreclosed and put out onto the streets. It’s very important,” Trump said during the signing ceremony.
–Tucker Carlson Network
INSIDE THE MAGNAMOUS TOWN OF BUFFALO CHIP–THE NEWS
FEAST YOUR EYES (AND EARS) ON THE 85TH ANNIVERSARY LINEUP THAT TOUTS
- 151 combined Top 10 singles
- 482 double platinum, diamond and gold records
- 84 million monthly combined Spotify listeners
- 13 bike shows and exhibits
- Two days of Daredevil Stunts
- 25+ contests and games
- Multiple days of racing
And wayyyyyyy more
LOST HISTORY FROM COMPETITION DISTRIBUTING–Article from Motorcycle Classics
Very little is known about the Rush motorcycles except that they were built between 1922 and 1934 by racer/constructor by the name of Van Geert. Initially, he used British components, then from 1927 on used motors of his own design. Van Geert rode one of his machines to victory in the 250cc Italian Grand Prix in 1924. These Rush motorcycles were primarily low-cost, low-tech transportation machines.
- Country: Belgium
- Engine: Air-cooled single cylinder 4-stroke (British Blackburn)
- Ignition: Bosch Magneto
- Power rating: 10 bhp (approx.)
- Displacement: 348cc
- Valves: Side
- Fuel system: Single Amal carburetor
- Transmission: Burman 3-speed (British)
- Suspension: Front Webb girder fork, rigid rear
- Brakes: British Hub Company drums, front and rear
- Weight: Approx. 230 lbs.
- Top speed: 55 mph
SALES NEWS FROM THE MIC–Sport Bikes Lead Among Young Riders
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Sport bike sales show consistent growth, even as other areas of the market have slowed – and younger riders are fueling the trend.
BY THE NUMBERS
Over a five-year span, sport bike sales climbed by 71%. Recent data shows nearly half (47%) of Gen Z motorcycle buyers choose sport bikes, making it their top segment.
WHAT THEY WANT
Performance is the top priority for sport bike buyers, followed by brand.
–MIC
QUOTE OF THE WEEK–
“Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, and knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful.”
—Samuel Johnson
Celebrate 85 Years of Sturgis with Free Shipping!
In honor of the 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, we’re rolling out a deal that rides strong through August.
The 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is more than a party—it’s a milestone, and we’re cranking up the savings.
To celebrate, we’re offering FREE Ground shipping* on all orders over $850, now through August 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EDT.
Whether you’re gearing up for your next trip or building the dream machine, now’s the time to save on shipping and invest in quality, American-made drivetrain parts.
–Baker Drivetrain
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK—Sturgis Ready!
2018 Harley Davidson Street Glide
- 15,514 Miles
- 107 Cubic Inch Harley Milwaukee 8 Motor
- 6 Speed Transmission
- Harley OEM Twisted Cherry Paintjob
- King Tour Pak with Passenger Backrest, and Black Luggage Rack
- 4 Point Docking Hardware
- Two-Up Harley Seat
- Stock Air Cleaner
- Dual Disc Front Brakes
- Stock Dual Black Exhaust
All that for only $19,995
Plus license, $85.00 documentation fee, and local sales tax.
The MIC Acquires USMCA to Expand Rider Access to Nationwide Network of Coaches
The Motorcycle Industry Council has acquired the United States Motorcycle Coaching Association, an organization dedicated to connecting riders with certified motorcycle coaches across the country. The acquisition, part of MIC’s broader market expansion initiative, reinforces the organization’s commitment to supporting lifelong rider development and growing participation in the powersports industry.
“USMCA connects riders with trusted, skilled coaches through an easy-to-use platform,” said Christy LaCurelle, President and CEO of the MIC. “And since each coach must pass basic prerequisites and background checks, riders and their families can feel confident in their safety and quality of instruction. This acquisition strengthens MIC’s efforts to grow ridership in meaningful, sustainable ways, and ensures we’re supporting riders long after their first ride.”
–MIC
BONNEVILLE MOTORCYCLE SPEED TRIALS–Salt Updates
We took a quick trip, get ready to race!
We just got back from a quick trip to put our own eyes on the salt, checking conditions and locations for our courses. We are happy to report that the salt is dry and we’re really confident in our course location options. While there may be very little salt crust around the access road entrance, the surface is hard packed. Like the other organizations have reported, we’ll also be pushing our start locations further out onto the salt flats.
Still time to register online.
There is still time to complete an online entry. Completing online entry allows us to ensure we have your paperwork ready to go, saves you a large amount of time waiting in line and ensures that you are able check in and get inspected and ready to race. Online registration before August 14th puts you in the Pre-Entry line for check in on the salt. Even better….. sign up before August 1st to guarantee an event participant t-shirt! For the latest details check the entry page at BonnevilleMST.com for details.
BLM Exclusive Use.
The BLM, stewards of the Bonneville Salt Flats, issued a media statement mentioning BSF closures for Summer Speed Racing events. This is public notification to ensure that we are permitted to close access to non-particpants to ensure public safety during our event. Onsite registrations, spectator tickets remain available throughout the event. For more information see the BLM statement here
Dates to mark on your calendar:
- August 15th- Online Entry Closes (Entry on the salt still available after deadline)
- August 22nd – Early Access Pass & VIR Pits Open
- August 23rd – General Entry Pits, Registration & Scruineering Open
- August 24th- 28th – Racing
- August 28th- Awards Party.
Keep Posted to our Web & Social Media pages for updates!
on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @bonnevillemst
“Hey, we won’t make it this year, but you’ll see an update soon on all our efforts for next year. “
–Bandit
NEWS FROM THE PRISM GANG– LED License Plate Frame | Product Highlight + Install
Here is our new LED License Plate Frame. A sleek, cast aluminum frame for mounting your tag while keeping it lit and road-ready.
Available in matte or polished finishes, this bracket features a built-in 3000k LED, grounding through the body (no extra ground wire needed) and routing flexibility so you can dial in a clean setup. It’s designed to easily swap in our Vintage Cloth Covered Wire using a built-in connector.
Install is quick and painless — just hook the red wire to your taillight’s running light or any +12v source, and you’re good to go.
Specs:
- Cast aluminum construction
- Fits standard 7″ x 4″ U.S. plates
- 3000k LED built-in
- Includes mounting hardware
- Works with 9v–16v systems
Monthly Feng Shui Forecast & Horoscope for the 7th Month of the Year of the Snake 2025 (8th August – 7th September 2025)
The monthly horoscope forecast brings excellent news for the Rat as the Victory Star enhances your ability to achieve success and see plans through to fruition. This is an ideal time to tackle ambitious projects or ventures you’ve been considering. The Star of Future Prosperity also promises opportunities for long-term gains, making it important to plan ahead. However, be cautious about sharing your achievements too freely, as jealousy from rivals could hinder your progress. Activate victory luck with the 3 Powers Windhorse Amulet and place the 3 Powers Windhorse or Dragon Among All Men on your desk to ensure success in competitive endeavors.
At work, promotion luck is strong. If you’ve been performing well, recognition and rewards are on the horizon. This is also a favorable period to consider a career change or pursue new opportunities, provided you make well-considered decisions. In business, step out of your comfort zone to explore new growth strategies. Your instincts will guide you, but keep an eye out for betrayal energies. Carry the Anti Evil-Eye Amulet.
In love, relationships feel more fulfilling. Couples may deepen their bonds, while singles enjoy opportunities for meaningful connections. This is also a great month for students to develop independence and broaden their horizons through new skills or experiences.
Check out your Annual horoscope & Feng Shui forecast 2025 for Rat. MUST-HAVE lucky charms and protective amulets for Rat people in the year of the SNAKE 2025: Three Horoscope Allies Amulet – Rat, Dragon & Monkey, 5 Blessing Wu Lou Amulet, “Yang More Than Yin” Mirror Amulet, Annual Amulet 2025, The 4 Element Cross with Monkey Amulet and Four Weapon Protection Amulet.
RUNNING OUT OF TIME, MUSEUM RAFFLE EFFORT—
You could win a magnificent piece of art from the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. Second prize is a special EVO S&S new engine from the Easyriders Archives. Third Prize is a super rare giclee by David Mann of the Worlds Fastest Motorcycle for 16 year, the Easyriders Streamliner.
Buy at least one ticket for a measly 10 clams. Support a greatest Museum effort on the planet. Go to www.Sturgismuseum.com or call the museum at 605 347-2001.
AFFORDABLE HARLEY COMING–Check it out
A new affordable and lowest priced Harley-Davidson for the American market is planned to be released in 2026.
Is this the answer to Royal Enfield, Triumph and KTM’s increasing presence in USA ?
Harley-Davidson Sprint launches in 2026; can this $6K bike win over Gen Z?
Why does it have to be extremes — $40,000 or $6000. Why can’t Harley-Davidson find a balance in their product-price mix ?
—-Wayfarer
wayfarer@bikernet.com
NEWS FROM THE BIKERNET THOUGHT TEMPLE–Living the Dream
“As the mighty oak sleeps in the acorn, so are our dreams the seedlings of our reality.” – Cavett Roberts
For many years, the phrase “Living the Dream” has been more than just words to me—it’s been a personal mantra. In fact, it’s appeared on many of my business cards over the years. Dreams have long been a powerful motivator in my life.
I can still remember, even as a toddler of two or three, dreaming about one day riding a motorcycle. That childhood dream became the seed of something much greater—it took root in my heart and became a burning desire. I knew, without a doubt, that one day I would ride. That dream shaped my path and became a foundation for the life I live today, a life filled with blessings, adventures, and purpose.
I’ve come to understand that one of our great ambitions in life is to dream—to transform our inner visions into reality, to bring our hopes and plans into being. Sometimes, we need our dreams to shield us from the icy winds of challenge and to remind us of what’s possible.
Nothing great has ever been achieved without first being imagined. The great innovators, creators, and contributors to our world all began with a dream. As Walt Disney so wisely said, “All dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.” His vision lives on today, long after his physical presence has left us.
We must never stop dreaming, because when we stop dreaming, a part of us begins to fade.
Today, I know: I have the courage to live my dream. I hold in my mind the right dreams—big dreams, joyful dreams, dreams that uplift and expand my spirit. I know that what I consistently hold in consciousness will manifest in my world, and today I choose to dream good things. As Disney said, “If you can dream it, you can do it,” and that is the spirit I embrace. I reawaken forgotten dreams and invite new ones into my heart every day. I am grateful for this Truth.
Today, I am Living the Dream.
And so it is.
Namaste.
“If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.” – Henry David Thoreau
Contemplative Questions:
What dream from your past still calls to your heart—and how might you begin to pursue it again?
Are the dreams you hold today aligned with your deepest values and desires?
What small step can you take today to move closer to living your dream?
–Yale
NEVER GIVE UP OR GIVE IN—
America has been under fire for a decade. All of our policies and programs attacked, sure we’ve made mistakes, but unlike any country in history we have the freedom and the democratic principles to fill the sails and right the ship.
It’s so amazing what we find when truth and integrity are allowed to shine. We don’t always like it when the truth is exposed, but ya gotta admit the truth is just that: It’s the bottom line and we must except it or relish in it.
I just found out our economic system has been based on a lie. I’m learning more. I also discovered how a country we love is not doing the right thing and our president is coming to terms with it.
See, we need to stay active and defend our freedoms forever. Join your local motorcycle rights group and stay involved.
Speaking of joining and fighting for something. I’m in the process of buying Easyriders Magazine. I’m taking over with the Jan/Feb 2026 issue. We are calling it the Uncaged Easyriders Magazine. Hang on for changes and wild editorial moving forward.
We might interview the boss of Sturgis Pirate Radio in our first issue above, Tigger. He’s a trip and totally dedicated to his mission.
There’s so much more going on in the streets, the basement and on the multitude of Sturgis race tracks. Hang on as everything unfolds in the Black Hills.
Ride fast and free, forever!
–Bandit
