Hey,
When I stepped into this Easyriders gig my mind rattled with notions of saving the true magazine and making it sing again. There’s something engaging and romantic about making it happen for the good of all bikers everywhere.
Then there’s the reality. It’s like buying your dream bike. Ya gotta get a loan or sell something else. Better find the paperwork, check the numbers, charge the battery, check the fuel, call your insurance agent, go to the DMV, you name it. This is a similar drill on a massive scale.
But when it comes to passion for the code and chrome there’s no stopping the vibe. Folks are stepping up and calling in the middle of the night to share their open-road, whiskey soaked notions.
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.
NEW FROM THE FEULING CREW– #5443-S
BA Air Cleaner SLIM
Twin Cam
$649.95
EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT VOTES FOR NEW DRIVING LICENSE RULES–
On Tuesday 21 October 2025, the European Parliament confirmed an update of EU driving licence rules that aim to contribute to road safety and reduce collisions with almost 20,000 lives lost on EU roads annually.
MEPs backed a review of EU driving licence rules introducing provisions on novice drivers, a digital licence, and driving disqualification.
New training requirements – To qualify for a licence a driver’s test will now have to include knowledge on blind spot risks, driver-assistance systems, the safe opening of doors, and phone usage distraction risks. As a result of demands by MEPs, new training and testing requirements will place a greater emphasis on risk awareness of pedestrians, children, cyclists and other vulnerable road users.
Validity and health checks – Driving licences should be valid for 15 years for motorcycles and cars, with the possibility for member states to reduce the validity period to 10 years if a driving licence is used as a national ID. Driving licences for trucks and buses will be valid for five years. EU countries may reduce the validity period for drivers aged 65 or older in order to submit holders to an increased frequency of medical checks or refresher courses. Before qualifying for their first licence or when applying for a renewal, a driver should pass a medical check, including tests of their eyesight and cardiovascular condition. EU countries may opt to substitute the medical check for car drivers or motorcycle riders by self-assessment forms or other assessment systems designed at the national level.
Novice and accompanied drivers – EU rules will set a probationary period for inexperienced drivers of at least two years. These drivers will face stricter rules and sanctions for driving under the influence of alcohol and not using safety belts or child-restraint systems. In addition, 17-year-olds will be able to get a licence to drive a car (category B), but they will have to drive accompanied by an experienced driver until they are 18.
Mobile driving licence – Under the new rules, a digital driving licence, accessible on a mobile phone, is intended to gradually become the main licence format in the EU. However, MEPs secured the right for drivers to request a physical licence, which should be issued without undue delay and in general within three weeks.
Driving disqualification – To reduce reckless driving while abroad a driving licence’s withdrawal, suspension or restriction will be passed on to the EU country which issued it, to ensure the cross-border enforcement of penalties. National authorities will have to inform each other, without undue delay, about decisions on driving disqualifications related to the most severe traffic offences – including drink or drug driving, involvement in a fatal traffic incident, or excessive speeding (e.g. driving 50 km/h faster than the speed limit).
Next steps – The new rules will enter into force on the 20th day following their publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. EU countries will have three years to transpose these new provisions into national law and an additional year to prepare for their implementation. The revised EU driving licence rules are part of a road safety package presented by the European Commission in March 2023, which aims to improve safety for all road users and to move as close as possible to zero fatalities in EU road transport by 2050 (‘Vision Zero’).
Good – Thankfully not all proposed measures made it into the finale version of the driving licence rules: proposed differentiated speed limits for holders of A1, A2 and A motorcycle licences are no longer being discussed. This could have led to situations where motorcyclists were confronted with other, larger, and heavier, vehicles with higher speed limits on the same roads. We considered this a dangerous situation for already vulnerable road users and for other road users. The last thing a motorcyclist needs is car drivers “pushing” motorcyclists and more overtaking manoeuvres.
Bad – Several member states allows the holder of a B licence to ride an A1 motorcycle (<125cc or electric equivalent), with some additional requirements (age, experience, training) in their own country. This possibility still exists in the new rules, but FEMA would have liked to see this upgraded, so that these riders can actually cross a border legally. These light motorcycles are mostly used in low-speed traffic by commuters who try to avoid traffic jams. By doing this they contribute to the reduction of congestion
Source: European Parliament
Glad I don’t live in Europe. –Bandit
So Much More to Saddlemen Now Available at Lifestyle Cycles
If you’ve ridden long enough, you already know the name Saddlemen® — and you probably know why. For nearly four decades, they’ve been redefining what real comfort and performance feel like on two wheels.
At Lifestyle Cycles, we’re proud to be your Authorized Saddlemen Seat Center, bringing riders not just their world-famous Gel-Core™ seats, but also the complete line of fairings, luggage, covers, and their new carbon fiber body parts — all built right here in Southern California.
From Comfort to Carbon — Saddlemen’s Evolution
Founded in 1987, Saddlemen started with one goal: to make motorcycle seats that keep riders in control, pain-free, and ready to chase the horizon. By blending SaddleGel™ medical-grade technology with Progressive Density Foam, they created their Gel-Core™ system — a seat foundation that absorbs road vibration, distributes weight evenly, and keeps blood flow steady through every mile.
But Saddlemen didn’t stop there. Over the years, their innovation has expanded beyond the saddle — shaping the way modern Harley riders build, protect, and travel on their bikes.
Explore Saddlemen’s Expanding Lineup at Lifestyle Cycles
Saddlemen has turned comfort engineering into a full line of performance-driven motorcycle accessories — and we carry them all right here at Lifestyle Cycles Anaheim and in our Online Mega Store.
GANG TASK FORCE DATABASE–
The Texas Confederation of Clubs is working on HB1274 which will require notification regarding inclusion of your information on an Intelligence Department database, often referred to as a gang task force database. Along with ABATE of Texas they also worked on the passage of HB2440 which is a Freedom of Choice and Protection of the Internal Combustion Engine bill.
ABATE of Wisconsin worked to get SB184/AB161 passed which would give consumers a choice to purchase a vehicle with their desired fuel type, electric or internal combustion engine driven, it is currently sitting on the Governor’s desk awaiting a signature or veto. AB135/SB127 are Right to Repair bills moving through committee.
ABATE of Ohio is working on HB357 which looks to increase penalties for vehicular assault and vehicular manslaughter, the intent is get drivers serious about looking twice to save a life when it comes to motorcyclists.
Watch out for SB1216 in Hawaii which enforces noise restrictions on motorcycle exhaust systems and looks to increase penalties for violations.
ABATE of Iowa and the Iowa Confederation of Clubs are working on HF46 which addresses law enforcement training to prevent motorcyclist profiling and to improve rider interactions.
TURN 14 POWERSPORTS CARRIES NEW BRANDS–Launches and Racing Partnerships
Turn 14 Powersports announced today that its twelve iconic brands, including ProTaper, Kuryakyn, Answer and Dragonfire Racing, will once again exhibit at AIMExpo, which takes place January 7–9, 2026 in Anaheim, California. The exhibit will feature all of Turn 14 Powersports’ owned brands, highlighting new product innovations, updated packaging, and process improvements designed to strengthen dealer profitability and consumer appeal.
This year’s appearance marks a significant milestone for Turn 14 Powersports as the company continues to expand its presence in both Open Road and Off-Road markets. Each of the company’s brands will have its newest products and dealer programs that they will share at the show.
A major highlight of the 2026 show will be the global launch of the Answer Racing 50th Anniversary Limited Edition Race Apparel Collection. This exclusive, limited production line pays tribute to five decades of Answer’s championship-winning heritage. The range of off-road jerseys and pants blend retro-inspired graphics with modern technical materials and performance features. This limited-edition series captures the evolution of Answer Racing—from its early motocross roots to its continued leadership in racewear and riding gear.
In addition to new products, Turn 14 Powersports will also highlight its official race partnerships with Star Racing, KTM Husqvarna, and Ti-Lube Honda for the 2026 race season. These partnerships demonstrate the company’s commitment to supporting elite-level competition and will provide brand visibility on the global stage.
“2026 will be one of our most exciting years yet,” said Bob Schuetz, President of Turn 14 Powersports. “The Answer Racing 50th Anniversary line not only honors our past but sets a tone of innovation for all our brands. AIMExpo is the perfect venue to share that story with our dealers, partners, and the powersports community.”
Turn 14 Powersports is the owned-brands division of Turn 14 Distribution, one of the top distributors in powersports and automotive products. Turn 14 Powersports brands include Answer, Biker’s Choice, BikeMaster, DragonFire Racing, FirstGear, Kuryakyn, ProTaper, QuadBoss, River Road by Kuryakyn, Speed and Strength, Skid Lid and TwinPower.
JUST IN FROM THE LOWBROW GANG–Get just the look you want with extended fork tubes.
We keep ‘extending’ our selection of fork tubes…
Now available, +8″ 39mm and +10″ 39mm fork tubes, for your pleasure!
We also have 41mm and 35mm fork tubes available in stock and extended lengths.
SHOP FORK TUBES
Want a long front end but don’t know how to make it happen?
The Lowbrow team produced video to show you the process.
EASYRIDERS SUBS ARE ROCKING–
I’m gonna subscribe and tell the world to subscribe. It’s so cool to have some tangible and cool to read again Viva Easyriders.
–Geno
S&S CYCLE ANNOUNCES PASSING OF TIM OSTERBERG
October 30, 2025 Viola, WI — S&S Cycle regretfully announces the passing of Tim Osterberg on 10/28/2025. Tim started with S&S Cycle in November of 2021 as Vice President of New Product Development & Methods and in that role made significant contributions to new and current products.
Tim was a leader, serving on our Senior Management Team and as a mentor to many of the engineers in Product Development and Core Product Engineering. His long-standing involvement with the motorcycle industry made him an incredible asset to the departments he worked within. While suffering with cancer, Tim would show up in the office or on video calls to ensure his team was being supported, his dedication was apparent to all he connected with.
“I had the pleasure of collaborating with Tim over the past several years and he was dedicated to his passion of product development through his last moments. As recently as last week he was fully engaged in strategic planning conversations.” Said Brett Smith, who then said, “Tim will leave an indelible mark on S&S through his efforts to create new opportunities for the company—many of which will come to fruition in the next 12-18 months. Before passing, he actively identified a potential successor, Scott Cain. His transparency with the company regarding his situation and his faith were a model for us to emulate and follow. He will be sorely missed not only by the S&S team and family, but also by the many others’ lives touched throughout his time on Earth. Godspeed Tim and God bless your family.”
“It was truly a privilege to work with Tim and get to know him professionally and personally. He worked tirelessly to advance the mission of S&S Cycle and deliver Proven Performance to our customers and teammates,” said Mark Platt. “We will miss Tim’s strong professional presence, his technical expertise, and his steady demeanor. His legacy will live on through the products he developed, the projects he stewarded, and the team he built. We at S&S will continue to hold up Tim’s family in our thoughts and prayers.”
We will miss Tim more than these words can convey as he was not just a team member, but a true friend to the S&S Cycle employees and family.
BAKER DRIVETRAIN NEWS LETTER–Kick It Like You Mean It
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of firing up your bike with a good old-fashioned kick. The BAKER Classic Kicker Gears are built for riders who appreciate that authentic mechanical connection — and want a setup that won’t let them down.
Precision-machined right here in the USA, these gears are crafted from the same top-tier materials we use in our modern drivetrain components. Designed for 1936–1986 H-D™ Big Twin kicker-equipped models, they deliver that smooth, positive engagement you remember — without the grinding, skipping, or “hope it catches” feeling of worn-out OEM or imported replacements.
From Flatheads to Evos and everything in between, if your 1936–1986 H-D™ Big Twin’s got a kicker, it deserves BAKER gears. Because when it’s time to bring it to life, there’s only one way to do it — kick it with confidence.
WATCH OUT FOR AUTOMATED LICENSE PLATE READERS–
Every day, automated license plate readers (ALPRs) capture millions of records on innocent drivers—where they go, when they go, and how often they travel. Officials claim it’s about safety and stolen vehicles. But according to multiple investigations, less than 1% of all ALPR scans are ever tied to an actual crime.
That means 99% of what’s collected is surveillance—plain and simple.
The NMA has fought enforcement overreach for 40 years, but ALPRs represent something more dangerous: a surveillance network capable of tracking every driver in the country. Vendors like Flock Safety and Motorola Solutions are building nationwide databases, sharing data across state lines, and selling it to agencies that were never authorized by voters.
We’re already seeing the results. Data leaks have exposed vehicle locations, police watchlists, and even home addresses of drivers swept up by error. In the wrong hands, that information is a threat to personal safety—and a violation of constitutional rights.
The Drive Free. Drive Fair. campaign exists to stop this. We’re calling for new laws to restrict license plate data collection, block vendor profiteering, and restore the fundamental right to travel privately and freely.
But we can’t do it without you.
When you donate $100 or more to the NMA this fall, you’ll receive an invitation to our exclusive December forum—a special event featuring transportation, privacy, and legal experts who will expose how these surveillance systems operate and what can be done to stop them.
Your contribution today will fuel legislative efforts, expand our outreach, and help ensure that drivers—not data vendors—decide the future of America’s roads.
National Motorist Association
A BROTHER HATES TRUMP–Hey Dave,
I don’t get it. Trump isn’t destroying cities, he’s trying to fix them. He’s not killing our kids with Fentanyl he’s trying to prevent it. He’s not opening the borders, he closed them. He’s not trying to make it legal for men to compete in women’s sports, he’s trying to fix that. He’s not anti-human, the other folks are. He’s not trying to control and regulate everything because of made-up climate doom, the other guys are. He’s not trying to regulate speech; he’s trying to honor the constitution.
Am I missing something? Sure, he’s a weird New Yorker, but he’s trying to save the free world at 78 years old. The other guy tried to destroy it and hates everything. WTF over?
–Bandit
MEETING OF THE MINDS-– Kansas Bridge the Gap has turned into a national event with presenters from the leaders of MPP, COIR, NCOM, NCOC, ABATE of Kansas, Kansas Confederation, Club Members, and the MRF.
They were 152 attendees in the 4 hour conference and as usual another 50 outside.
The MRF had 4 board members present, 2 presented, our MRF Rep from Kansas, from Texas, and a couple assistant reps were there.
The MRF again proving when you’re with the MRF you ride with the Leaders.
Seeing Leadership from these organizations at MOTM, NCOC, and now Bridge the Gap speaks to the level of engagement and investment being made by many in our movement, it’s tremendous to see.
–Russel Radke
“GENERATIONS,” 85TH Sturgis Rally Anniversary painting by Danial James.
A magnificent piece depicting Gramps sharing Harley knowledge and stories with his son and granddaughter. Only 50 version of 36 x 24 Giclee Prints will be printed. Each comes hand signed and numbered with certificate of authenticity. Unframed – $1095.00, Framed – $1500.00.
Danial James
303-564-5961
DanialJamesfineart@gmail.com
Find it for sale in Bandit’s Emporium: www.5-Ballgarage.com
BROTHER ACE NEEDS HELP—
Berdoo is raffling off this sweet motorcycle to raise money for legal fees for Brother Ace. Any support will be greatly appreciated.
–Skeeter
WHAT’S NEXT–What’s next is right. We are always kicking around what to prepare for the next issue of Easyriders. We’re always looking for the right story for Bikernet.
Donnie’s super cool classic shopper is coming up in the March/April issue. Watch for it. I’m super proud of the January/February issue. I think it will blow your mind, but goddammit, that’s our job. Now it’s whiskey time and I’m waiting for the Redhead to appear with a brown paper bag and a smile.
In the meantime, ride fast and free forever!
–Bandit
