September 2008

Buell Recall

Buell has issued a recall for some 2007 and 2008 Buell Blasts. The fuel tank may deform under certain conditions, contacting the engine and causing a leak. Please read the details below.

Manufacturer: Buell Motorcycle Company
Model Year: 2007-2008
Models affected: Blast
NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V439000
Potential Units Affected: 1307

Problem: Buell is recalling 1,307 model year 2007-2008 Blast motorcycles. The fuel tank may experience some local deformation under high-heat conditions that creates contact of the tank with the cylinder head. In some of these cases, the cylinder head rubbing on the fuel tank has created a fuel leak. This could result in a crash or fire, which could cause injury or death to the rider.

Corrective Action: Dealers will install a bracket which will prevent the fuel tank from contacting the cylinder head. The recall is expected to begin on or before September 8, 2008. Owners may contact Buell at 1-414-343-8400.

McCain & Obama Look For The Biker Vote

McCain tells a motorcycle rally that he'll take the roar of Harleys over crowds in Berlin. Obama says his GOP rival opposed a requirement that the government buy American-made motorcycles.

John McCain's recent appearance in South Dakota at the Sturgis Rally, America's largest motorcycle convention, was by most accounts a roaring success. But Barack Obama's campaign isn't going to give up the biker vote without a fight.

At Sturgis, McCain ridiculed Obama for drawing "hundreds of thousands" of people to an outdoor speech in Berlin. "I'll take the roar of 50,000 Harleys any day," he boasted, as dozens of cyclists revved their engines.

Now, Obama is airing a new radio spot in Wisconsin -- the home of Harley-Davidson -- attacking McCain's quip.

The spot quotes McCain's Sturgis Rally joke, and then calls the Republican a hypocrite for opposing a requirement that the government buy American-made motorcycles. "When it comes to his record," an announcer says, "American-made motorcycles like Harleys don't matter to John McCain."

The ad closes with fighting words: "It's time to hear the roar of the strong American economy again -- and stop John McCain from shipping our jobs overseas."

Sturgis Crowds & Sales Down

The annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has been over for nearly a week, and reports are in saying the crowd was indeed much smaller than last year.

South Dakota - The state Revenue Department says sales and tourism taxes collected from temporary vendors in Meade and Lawrence counties were down 11% this year.

Slightly more than $761,000 in taxes were collected, down $92,000 from last year.

Officials say there were 1,191 vendors at the motorcycle rally, compared to 1,327 last year and 1,371 in 2006.

Gross sales in Meade and Lawrence counties were nearly $11.4 million. That was a decline of $1.2 million from last year.


Corbin Fuels The Can-Am Spyder's Growing Popularity

It looks like Corbin has come out with a full line of accessories for the Can-Am Spyder providing the same comfort and integrated storage they’ve been adding to motorcycles for years. There is a modular saddle system, Fleetliner saddle bags, the Smuggler trunk, a rear fender and an upper Fleetliner fairing to pick up where the factory left off. They look pretty nice and the bags are huge, 50 liters each side, that’s over 13 gallons per side (for the non metric among us.)

The fairing raises the air flow and decreases turbulence for a more comfortable ride, the trunk is a convenient place to store a small laptop computer and all of the smaller stuff you probably want along on your commute. The seats look downright comfy, they have optional backrests, too. It’s a well integrated package just like many of the other accessory groups we’ve seen from Corbin. They come color matched for all of the standard Can-Am Spyder color options.

If you’ve got a Spyder or you’re thinking about getting one and want to give it a little more all around practicality or if you just can’t tolerate the completely stock look, Corbin might have what you need.

Harley Recall

Harley-Davidson has issued a recall for many of the 2008 FLH models for a problem with their fuel filters. Please read the details below for specific models.

Manufacturer: Harley-Davidson
Model Year: 2008

Models affected: FLHP, FLHPE, FLHR, FLHRC, FLHRSE4, FLHT, FLHTC, FLHTCU, FLHTCUSE3, FLHTP, FLHX, AND FLTR

NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V357000

Potential Units Affected: 47579

Problem: Harley Davidson is recalling 47,579 model year 2008 FLHP, FLHPE, FLHR, FLHRC, FLHRSE4, FLHT, FLHTC, FLHTCU, FLHTCUSE3, FLHTP, FLHX and FLTR motorcycles. These motorcycles may experience a cracking of the fuel filter shell leading to loss of fuel pressure. This loss of fuel pressure can cause diminished performance and, in some cases, may cause an engine stall or a no-start condition. This condition could lead to a crash which could cause injury or death to the rider.

Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the fuel filter shell free of charge. The recall was to begin on or before August 4, 2008. Owners may contact Harley Davidson at 1-414-343-4056.

Layoffs Announced At S&S

S&S Cycle of Viola, Wisconsin announced layoffs due to declining sales. A total of 60 employees were either laid off or offered voluntary separation, a total of 195 employees remain at the company’s 2 locations in Viola and LaCrosse.

Company President Brett Smith announced Friday that 60 workers have been cut this month through voluntary separation and layoffs. “This was a very, very hard decision personally,” Smith said. “People I’ve known for years were impacted.” … All but two of the cuts were made at the company’s Viola site rather than the La Crosse location, Smith said.

S&S recently had a very successful 50th Anniversary celebration hosting an estimated 28,000 motorcycle enthusiasts. S&S builds some great engines, the new X-Wedge is already certified by the EPA for the 2010 Tier 2 standards, hope they get things turned around soon.

S&S and Jesse James Announce Collaboration

California - Jesse James of West Coast Choppers and S&S Cycle Inc. have announced an exclusive collaboration, marketing and endorsement agreement. James and his company West Coast Choppers have been an avid supporter and customer of S&S Cycle for many years. While complete details of the agreement have not been released, it includes exclusive use of S&S engines in all American V-Twin motorcycles built by James and West Coast Choppers. Jesse James also has plans to build special construction motorcycles for S&S in support of the companies 50th anniversary celebration featuring X-Wedge and Flathead Power branded S&S engines. Also, James & S&S will collaborate on a new apparel line, done in conjunction with S&S’ anticipated reintroduction of the Flathead Power line of products at Sturgis this August.

Helmet Law Under Attack In Connecticut

Hartford - A double-motorcycle fatality last weekend has rekindled debate over the freedom of Connecticut riders to wear helmets.

Gov. M. Jodi Rell this week said that Connecticut should align its laws with neighbors such as New York, where helmets are required, and repeal the state's 1976 law that gave riders over the age of 18 the option. But Speaker of the House James A. Amann, a former Harley-Davidson aficionado whose exploratory gubernatorial campaign has been endorsed by the Connecticut Motorcycle Riders Association, said Tuesday there is no will in the General Assembly to change existing law.

He said Rell over-reacted, noting that there were also four people killed in car crashes over the Fourth of July holiday, and when drivers want to speed they take big chances.
"There she goes again, being a total reactionary," Amann said in a phone interview recalling his old Harley Low Rider, which he drove without a helmet. "What's ironic about the double fatality on I-91 in Rocky Hill is one of the riders had their helmet on."
He said the high speed at which the two men, ages 33 and 34, were operating their vehicles was the reason for the crashes. One cycle crashed into the rear of a tractor-trailer and then all three collided.  "Unfortunately, these individuals decided to be reckless," Amann said. Rell, in Cheshire on Monday, told a WTNH-TV reporter, in reaction to the Rocky Hill fatalities, that the General Assembly should reconsider the helmet option.

"I often see people come across the state line, take off their helmets and continue to drive in Connecticut. To me, it just absolutely makes no sense," Rell said. "If you can wear it all the way through New York, you can wear it in Connecticut and perhaps it is time that we take another look at it." It has been several years since a revived helmet-law proposal got very far in the General Assembly. The last time a bill even got to a public-hearing stage, weekend enthusiasts joined bikers including state chapters of the Hells Angels to speak out against the proposal.

House Majority Leader Christopher G, Donovan, D-Meriden, who is expected to succeed Amann as speaker of the house, said Tuesday that the will of the Legislature hasn't been tested for awhile. "The issue comes up periodically," Donovan said in a phone interview. "In the past, assemblies have not voted and I assume that that would happen again. It's not a hot issue. The motorcycle riders themselves, some choose to wear helmets and others not." While fatal collisions involving motorcycles have gone up slightly in recent years, the number of registered motorcycles has risen sharply, indicating that more riders are driving safely, according to the state Department of Transportation, which offers a popular safety program.

In fact, the number of registered motorcycles in the state has risen from 50,734 in 1997, to 89,100 last year, Kevin Nursick, a DOT spokesman, said Tuesday. "If you look at the accident statistics, there is no demographic for bike crashes," Nursick said. "You have young riders, old, experts, novices, sport bikes, cruisers, choppers, high-performance bikes. There is no real type of bike or age group you can point at and say they're at risk."
In 1985, there were 61,242 registered motorcycles and 74 operators and 13 passengers were killed in collisions.

During the first nine months of 2007, the latest time period summarized with statewide statistics, 39 riders and five passengers were killed, when about 50 percent more motorcycles were registered than in 1985.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 20 states and the District of Columbia require all motorcyclists to wear helmets. Laws requiring only some motorcyclists to wear a helmet are in place in 27 states. In Connecticut, no person under the age of 18 can operate or be a passenger on a motorcycle without wearing protective headgear.

Only three states — Illinois, Iowa and New Hampshire — have no motorcycle helmet use law.

Nursick said that one of the reasons why the fatality rate may be holding steady while the number of motorcycles rises by a couple of thousand each year, is the DOT's rider-education course, details of which are available on the DOT Web site (ct.gov/dot and search rider education).

Those who pass the basic rider course receive a waiver for the riding portion of the Department of Motor Vehicles' motorcycle-license test. "Back in 1985 we trained 856 people," Nursick said. "In 2007, there were 6,192 riders trained. From our perspective, training is extremely important. [The training] wholeheartedly advocates using a helmet and all protective equipment."

Rep. Michael P. Lawlor, D-East Haven, co-chairman of the Legislature's Judiciary Committee, said Tuesday that he would support a mandatory helmet law because of the millions of dollars in support the state has to give to people who can't afford long-term medical care after crashes. "They call them 'donor cycles,'" Lawlor said, referring to organ donations that are often reaped from motorcycle fatalities.

"It's definitely safer to have a helmet on, like it's definitely safer to have a windshield when you drive a car," Lawlor said. "For some motorcyclists, you get to the issue of, if it's your life on the line, why do so many other people care?" Lawlor said. "Well, to be crass about it, we have to pay your hospital bill. The guys who die, they don't have that problem, but the people who survive and end up with TBI, can rarely afford it."
Lawlor said he would probably vote for a mandatory helmet law. "If everyone wore a helmet on their motorcycle, we'd save a lot of money," he said.

Rep. Terry Backer, D-Stratford, who's been riding his 2003 Indian more often now that gas is getting more expensive, said Tuesday that his helmet use depends on his mood.
"I very often wear a helmet and other times I won't wear a helmet," Backer said. "Nothing guarantees your safety, but racing and driving at high speeds can certainly get you closer to an accident." He said bike riders, as a breed, are risk takers. "It's my choice to wear a helmet, yet there are often horrendous accidents in which people get traumatic brain injury," Backer said.

Backer said the seasonal helmet debate is a non-issue compared to the rising cost of fuel and what it's poised to do this coming winter to seniors and others on fixed incomes in his district. "We should be declaring a heating oil emergency," he said. "That's what's wrong with this state. I'm worrying about $5-a-gallon heating oil and people are arguing about bike helmets.”


Though a crowd packed Myrtle Beach's City Council chambers Tuesday afternoon -- both supporters and protesters of the May motorcycle rallies -- only seven people signed up to speak during the public comment period, and only two of them on the pro-rally side.

South Carolina - The council's meeting room holds about 300 people and was almost full. Many ar-rived an hour before the mayor's gavel dropped to ensure they had seats to show their support or disdain for the city's moves toward discouraging bike rally visitors in Myrtle Beach, including passage of a 3-mill property tax increase to fund as-yet-undetermined anti-rally efforts.

Mayor John Rhodes gave each person three minutes to speak during the 30-minute public forum period at the beginning of the meeting. There's another at the end of every meeting, but those who spoke didn't even take up the first half hour, and all left when it was over.

The audience appeared to be about 60 percent against the rallies, 40 percent for. Some of those who were there in support of the rallies sported Harley-Davidson patches and insignias to support the 10-day Harley-Davidson rally in May and the shorter, smaller one in October.

Noticeably missing were vocal supporters of the Memorial Day rally, Atlantic Beach Bikefest -- a four-day, sport-bike-oriented event that draws crowds of young people, many of whom come by car to hold a street party on Ocean Boulevard.

Local bartender Zachary Winrow said he spoke for the food-and-beverage-service industry in favor of the rallies.

"My family's well-being is threatened" if the city works to end the events, he told the council. Service workers are the city's lifeblood, he said, and if they leave, no one will re-place them. "I don't understand why we're refusing service to some of our best customers," Win-row said.

Lawyer Tom Rice offered the council statistics he had gathered showing that traffic tickets, crashes and crime go up during May, and urging the council to stay its course.

Birgit Darby, who sits on the city's Community Appearance Board, thanked the council for "standing up for the residents."

Resident Charles Launi offered ideas City Council could consider for reducing the bike-rally numbers, including lowering noise-level standards, working with the state to enact a helmet law, having event sponsors ante up before the rallies start for the costs of law-enforcement overtime and city cleanup, and asked for a resolution on the November ballot to accurately determine the wishes of those who live in Myrtle Beach.

David Utterback, a member of the city's Friendship Team, said in his 10 years walking Ocean Boulevard during the May bike rallies to greet people and serve as a community liaison, "I notice it gets worse very year."

Mike Shank, a rally event promoter, told the council he wasn't there to present argu-ments for or against the rallies but rather to let the city know he and others who support the rallies want to work "with all groups, for and against, to continue making Myrtle Beach a better place."

Second Annual Harley-Davidson Women's Day slated for August 7, 2008

South Dakota - Harley-Davidson plans to feature many activities and events geared towards women during the historic 68th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August. Among the activities planned at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center in Rapid City, August 2-9, is a Harley-Davidson interactive women's area featuring giveaways, prizes and motorcycle information.

Women who visit the interactive area will find information on the special Harley-Davidson Let Freedom Ring promotion, women's Garage Parties and Riders Edge(R). The Motor Company will also host the second annual Women's Day at the Civic Center on Thursday, August 7, 2008. Activities planned for Women's Day include women's demo rides, as well as seminars focused on teaching women how to customize their motorcycle and how to pick up a fallen motorcycle.

"We're excited about Women's Day, as well as the other women's activities at Sturgis," said Leslie Prevish, Women's Outreach Manager for Harley-Davidson Motor Company. "These are just part of our overarching programs to encourage more women to act on their dreams of learning to ride."

Over the past decade, women have increasingly embraced the sport of motorcycling -- seeking the freedom and empowerment associated with hitting the open road. Today, women represent nearly 12 percent of new Harley-Davidson motorcycle purchases.


Hell Ride. Quentin Tarantino's new age version of 60's biker "b" movies promises lots of stuff guys like. Guys like motorcycles, violence, and hot chicks. This movie delivers all of that in badass style.

US Nationwide - Hell Ride is a feature film from Larry Bishop being released under the "Quentin Tarantino Presents" banner. The film promises to be a blood and sex-soaked tale of motorcycle revenge and retribution.

Bishop took extra duties on this film by not only starring in it, but wrote, directed and co-produced with Michael Steinberg and Shana Stein producing and Quentin Tarantino taking on the job of Executive Producer.

This is Bishop's modern-day take on those 1960s motorcycle flicks he used to turn out for B-movie masters American International Pictures. It's the project Tarantino inspired Bishop to begin some five and a half years ago, when he told Larry, "It is your destiny to write, direct and star in a movie,'" and said he would help produce it.

Hell Ride is set for release late summer 2008.

Harley-Davidson, Inc. announced the signing of a definitive agreement to purchase the Italian motorcycle maker MV Agusta Group.

Wisconsin - Under the agreement, Harley-Davidson will acquire 100 percent of MV Agusta Group shares for total consideration of approximately 70 million euros ($109 million), which includes the satisfaction of existing bank debt for approximately 45 million euros ($70 million). In addition, the agreement provides for a contingent payment to Claudio Castiglioni in 2016, if certain financial targets are met. MV Agusta Group is privately held, with the Castiglioni family owning 95 percent of MVAG shares.

The acquisition is expected to close in several weeks, pending the satisfaction of contingencies and receipt of regulatory approvals. Harley-Davidson intends to fund the transaction primarily through euro-denominated debt.

MV Agusta Group has two families of motorcycles: a line of exclusive, premium, high-performance sport motorcycles sold under the MV Agusta brand; and a line of lightweight motorcycles sold under the Cagiva brand. MV Agusta’s F4-R motorcycle, powered by a 1078cc in-line four-cylinder liquid cooled engine, is rated at 190 hp. The company sells its products through about 500 dealers worldwide, the vast majority of them in Europe. In 2007, MVAG shipped 5,819 motorcycles. During 2008 MVAG has significantly slowed production due to financial difficulties.

“Motorcycles are the heart, soul and passion of Harley-Davidson, Buell and MV Agusta,” said Harley-Davidson, Inc. Chief Executive Officer Jim Ziemer. “Both have great products and close connections with incredibly devoted customers. The MV Agusta and Cagiva brands are well-known and highly regarded in Europe. They are synonymous with beautiful, premium, Italian performance motorcycles,” Ziemer said.

Harley-Davidson, Inc. plans to continue to operate MV Agusta Group from its headquarters based in Varese, Italy. Following closing, the first priority will be to appoint a leadership team to include a new Managing Director and to resume the manufacture of current models.

According to Ziemer, the acquisition is intended primarily to expand Harley-Davidson, Inc’s presence and footprint in Europe, complementing the Harley-Davidson and Buell motorcycle families. Retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles have grown at a double-digit rate in Europe in each of the last three years, as the Company has increased its strategic focus on global markets.

“The acquisition of MV Agusta Group will enhance Harley-Davidson, Inc’s position as a global leader in fulfilling customer dreams and providing extraordinary customer experiences. We look forward to a long relationship with the MV Agusta and Cagiva families of customers and employees,” said Ziemer.

In addition, Harley-Davidson intends to finance a portion of the consideration by borrowing funds and its level of indebtedness may increase as a result, which may cause Harley-Davidson to incur additional interest expense and limit Harley-Davidson’s ability to obtain additional financing. It could also increase Harley-Davidson’s exposure to general adverse economic and industry conditions and adversely impact Harley-Davidson, Inc.’s earnings per share. Furthermore, Harley-Davidson may have challenges successfully integrating or profitably operating the business of MV Agusta Group.

Company Background:

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company (HDMC), Buell Motorcycle Company (Buell) and Harley-Davidson Financial Services (HDFS). Harley-Davidson Motor Company produces heavyweight motorcycles and offers a line of motorcycle parts, accessories, general merchandise and related services. HDMC manufactures five families of motorcycles: Touring, Dyna ®,Softail ®,

Sportster ® and VRSC™. Buell produces premium sport performance motorcycles and offers a line of motorcycle parts, accessories, and apparel. HDFS provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs primarily to Harley-Davidson and Buell dealers and customers.

Save Money .. Buy A Harley ??

Alabama - "I get to go more places now. I went to Crestview this weekend; I went to Chatom, Alabama this weekend on $26 worth of gas. If I had taken my vehicle, it would have cost me over a hundred," explained Johnson.

Johnson isn't alone. Harley employees say the floor is usually covered in motorcycles. But just like gas prices, bike sales are through the roof. "Sales here have been great. We did 101 total units at both stores last month," said David McCrary, sales manager for Harley-Davidson.

It may be a sign that folks are ready to park their cars for good, and hop on a motorcycle to save some dough. "Well, your bikes are getting an average of 40 to 50 gallons a mile. They're much more fun and much more efficient," said McCrary.

If you think burly men are the only ones riding motorcycles, think again. The old biker cliché is now a thing of the past. "We've got lades riding them anywhere from four foot eleven to men six foot five," said McCrary.

Ladies like Nina Johnson, who wouldn't have it any other way. "It's been wonderful. I put over 400 miles on it this weekend alone and I just love it," said Johnson

Motorcycle Deaths On the Rise

South Carolina - Most motorcyclists who died during a recent 18-month period studied by the S.C. Highway Patrol either had a beginner's license or no license at all, and troopers fear the problem could grow as high gas prices push more first-time riders toward two-wheeled transportation.

"With gas prices on the increase, more people are riding motorcycles to work," Lance Cpl. Bob Beres said. "They're not just using them for leisure."

Averaging about $3.88 a gallon on Tuesday, gas prices in Charleston are almost $1 above what they were a year ago, according to AAA.

The owner of Velocity Power Sports motorcycle dealership in Summerville has noticed more customers asking about fuel efficiency. And good gas mileage is something owner Jerry Cristo can deliver — the Hondas, Yamahas and Kawasakis he sells get anywhere from 50 to 70 miles per gallon.

Cristo said sales at his dealership were up 35 percent to 40 percent last month compared to May 2007. "It's dramatically increased," he said.

The popularity of small- displacement models has been a large factor, he said. Manufacturers have been taking note and have been advertising to people interested in transportation, not just enthusiasts.

Troopers worry that inexperience could put newer riders at greater risk. Of the 99 fatal motorcycle crashes they investigated from July 2006 to December 2007, 36 riders had beginner's licenses — the same number as those with a regular license. Twenty-five had no license and two had expired licenses.

Motorcycle riders were at fault in about three-quarters of the fatal crashes. The major causes were speeding, failing to yield the right of way and driving under the influence. Most of those who died were middle-aged men not wearing helmets. Helmets are not required for riders 21 or older.

Troopers hope to curb the problem with a safety campaign that distributes a DVD geared toward first-time riders. It will be available through dealerships starting today to anyone buying a motorcycle.


Biker Lawyer Looses Bid

Louisiana - A Harley-Davidson-riding lawmaker has given up on his effort to let his fellow motorcyclists decide whether they want to wear a helmet.

Head protection will continue to be mandatory in Louisiana after a hostile Senate committee blocked Rep. Mert Smiley's bill on Wednesday, as the legislative session winds down toward its June 23 end date. A companion bill had earlier stalled on the House floor, and Smiley said he had no chance to get the law repealed this session.

"I fought a gallant fight," said Smiley, a Port Vincent Republican. But he said he'd try again next year.

House Bill 1295 dies for the session despite support from Gov. Bobby Jindal, who argued that bikers ought to have the freedom to decide whether to wear head protection.

Smiley's package of two bills would have required that motorcyclists under 18 wear head protection, and created a requirement for new motorcyclists to undergo a training course run by the Department of Public Safety.

Among other things, the safety course would teach future bikers of the importance of wearing a proper helmet, instead of plastic "novelty" helmets that offer little or no head protection, Smiley said. Combined with the training course, he said passage of his bills would mean the state will produce better-trained and better-equipped bikers.

Louisiana is one of 20 states that require all motorcyclists to wear a helmet.

The Senate's health committee blocked the proposal after hearing testimony from Jim Champagne, the state's former highway safety chief, who said the mandatory helmet law saves lives and prevents debilitating crashes that leave bikers "wards of the state." He said helmets are often the only chance motorcyclists have to avoid massive head trauma in a crash.

"Nobody carries enough insurance to protect themselves against being in the hospital, or in a ward, for the rest of their lives," Champagne said.

Champagne was dismissed from his post when Jindal's administration took over from that of Gov. Kathleen Blanco, who signed the helmet requirement into law. Champagne testified for the second time this session that he was fired because he refused to go along with Jindal's position on motorcycle helmets.

Smiley said Champagne's exit had nothing to do with helmets. "It's not my fault," Smiley said, "and it's not the motorcycle riders' fault, that he got dismissed."

Another motorcyclist death during the annual Harley-Davidson spring motorcycle rally in Myrtle Beach.

South Carolina - According to Myrtle Beach police Captain David Knipes and The Sun News of Myrtle Beach a biker, whose name has not been released, died Saturday afternoon when he failed to negotiate a turn in the resort town. Two other motorcyclist deaths happened on May 10th.

The 10-day rally typically draws about 200,000 people to the 60-mile stretch of beaches from Georgetown to the North Carolina state line. Three people also died in motorcycle accidents during last year‘s event.

Motorcycle daredevil, Robbie Knievel getting ready to retire.

Texas - Captain Robbie Knievel (son of the motorcycle legend Evel Knievel) Says he'll make another leap on June 7th when he jumps 20 side-by-side Hummers before the Bombardier Learjet 550K Indy Car race at Texas Motor Speedway.

"I'm coming back to Texas for one more," said Knievel at an interview at the Texas Motor Speedway.

Knievel last jumped at the speedway back in 2001, when he cleared the 25-car starting field of the Indy Car Chevy 500. He jumped more than 175 feet that day. The coming June 7th jump, will be longer according to the 46-year-old daredevil.

"That's basically what my dad's life was, and my life - going further and further and further," he said. "Physically, I don't want to hit the pavement again at 85 mph. I think I'm stronger mentally because I'm paying attention more so that I don't hit the pavement."

The TMS jump will be one of about five or six jumps he plans to make this year. After those jumps, Knievel said, "This year might be my last.”

Knievel is still launching himself off 10-foot high ramps. Though other motorcycle jumpers are going greater distances with the aid of higher ramps, Knievel hasn't changed his ways.

"I'm old school," he said. "I hit [the landing ramp] hard, and I don't know how much longer my back's going to take it."

With no apparent future Knievel jumpers to take his place, he sees his TMS date as "another jump to keep the name Knievel the most famous on two wheels."

It's the idea of continuing his father's legacy that has carried him this far.

"To carry on that name, that legendary thing my dad started that a lot of little kids looked up to him like I did - like a superhero," Knievel said. "He was my hero all my life, and I wanted to do what he did."

Harley-Davidson has announced that the iconic rock band Foo Fighters has been added to the already stellar line-up of musical talent performing during the Motor Company’s 105th Anniversary Celebration in Milwaukee.

Wisconsin - Foo Fighters, along with special guest Three Days Grace, will play Friday, August 29, 2008, at the outdoor venue dubbed Roadhouse at the Lakefront, which is located just north of the Milwaukee Art Museum. Stand-alone concert tickets will go on sale at 8:00 a.m. CDT on Saturday, May 31, 2008, at www.ticketmaster.com. Purchasers do not need a Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary ticket to secure tickets for the Foo Fighters concert. All tickets for Foo Fighters are general admission lawn seating and cost $27.50, plus shipping and handling charges.

Harley-Davidson’s 105th Anniversary celebration is poised to be the must-see music event of the summer. Blending a diverse mix of music, the Motor Company will showcase the classic genres that are at the core of American influence.

In addition to Foo Fighters and Three Days Grace, American icons like Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band and ZZ Top, as well as rising stars like Daughtry are scheduled to perform during the 105th Anniversary. The Motor Company also plans to feature other popular acts including The Black Crowes, Dierks Bentley, Los Lonely Boys, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Buddy Guy, Cameo and more.

For more information on all the 105th activities, including limited edition Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary motorcycles, visit www.harley-davidson.com/105th.

$1 million pledge from the Harley-Davidson Foundation to support the Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

This is the second year of the Harley’s Heroes™ tour. The mission of Harley’s Heroes™ is to provide access to benefits for all veterans and show appreciation for their service and sacrifice to our country. Thanks to a $1 million pledge from the Harley-Davidson Foundation, the 2008 Harley’s Heroes™ Tour to support the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and its Mobile Service Office program will make stops at Harley-Davidson dealerships around the country from May through November.

The tour provides benefits counseling to veterans who have service-connected disabilities but may never have filed a benefits claim. The Mobile Service Office units will appear at various dealer events recognizing veterans and will be staffed by highly trained DAV National Service Officers, all of them wartime disabled veterans.

In 2007, the inaugural tour produced great results. More than 180 Harley-Davidson dealers hosted events serving more than 7,000 veterans.

“In the truest sense of our mission to build better lives for disabled veterans, Harley’s Heroes™ will enable the DAV to reach a greater number of veterans and their families.” said Arthur H. Wilson, National Adjutant of the 1.4 million-member DAV. “Many of our youngest veterans are unaware of the benefits they have earned. Informing those veterans of their rights will be a most important task of the DAV during the 2008 Harley’s Heroes™ Tour.”

For an up-to-date list of Harley’s Heroes™ Tour stops or for more information please visit www.harleysheroes.org.

About the Harley-Davidson Foundation:
The Harley-Davidson Foundation, Inc. was established in 1993. Harley-Davidson, Inc. utilizes this non-profit organization to support the communities in which the Company has facilities. The majority of the Foundation's investments are in the areas of education and community revitalization with funds also supporting programs in arts and culture, health, the environment, and national veterans initiatives. For more information, visit www.harley-davidson.com.

About Disabled American Veterans:
The 1.3 million-member Disabled American Veterans, a non-profit organization founded in 1920 and chartered by the U.S. Congress in1932, represents this nation’s disabled veterans. It is dedicated to a single purpose: building better lives for our nation’s disabled veterans and their families. For more information, visit the organization’s Web site www.DAV.org.

Hell’s Angel Speaks Out For First Amendment Rights

A 45-year-old member of the Hells Angels Motorcycle club, recently stood up for his First Amendment right to freedom of expression.

California - Timothy “Fuzzy” Timms, a resident of the San Diego’s South Park community, refused to take off a black leather vest with the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club's “Death's Head” insignia when he reported for jury duty. He's a big burly man, 5 feet 8 inches, 250 pounds, with a full beard and auburn-colored, shoulder-length hair.

Timms, a big, burly man, 5 feet 8 inches, 250 pounds, with a full beard and auburn-colored, shoulder-length hair, got himself dismissed from the San Diego Superior Court's Hall of Justice by sheriff's deputies, along with another Hells Angel who also refused to remove club vest.

Nine hours later, representatives for both the Superior Court and the sheriff's department apologized to Timms and fellow club member Mick Rush (also reporting for jury duty) for “misunderstanding” an order issued on April 24 by Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Fraser.

According to court spokeswoman Karen Dalton, “It all boils down to a misunderstanding of Judge Fraser's order by court security”. “He (the judge) does have a case before him involving Hells Angels members and his order applies only to that case and to his courtroom, not to the entire courthouse.”

Court documents showed that Fraser has banned four defendants in a felony drug possession case from wearing “Hells Angels clothing in/out of the courtroom for security reasons.”

Lt. Brian Conway, a court security supervisor, said: “Based on that misunderstanding, we certainly regret any inconvenience that we caused to these two men. Everybody has since been informed among our security, so we don't expect any similar problems to be repeated.”

Timms said he was happy to get his apology just before 5 p.m. He also was given credit for showing up Monday and told he fulfilled his service. But, he still plans to report to jury duty the next time he is called, and he will again wear his Hells Angels vest.

“A lot of people try to get out of jury duty, but I feel that people ought to be proud to serve,” said Timms, who works as a real estate loan officer. “Without a jury, all you have is a judge making a decision. Through the jury process, you can choose a jury of your peers to hear your case and decide what is fair.”

Attorney Anthony Colombo, Jr., who represents one of the Hell Angels on trial before Judge Frazer, said he plans to file a written challenge to the judge's order on grounds that the defendants' rights to freedom of expression and freedom of association outweigh the court's security concerns.


Dark Custom Collection from Harley-Davidson searches roots for a new beginning.

Wisconsin - There's a time in everyone's life when necessity trumps extravagance. One look at Harley-Davidson's collection of chopped-up, stripped-down and purposely unpolished bikes and you suddenly realize what that bumps-and-bruises feeling of self discovery is supposed to look like. But don't be fooled by its vintage designs. Dark Custom is anything but a historical retrospective. With a new generation of riders embracing these bikes, it is clear Dark Custom is here and now.

For generations, Harley-Davidson has defied the status quo, rebelliously representing counter culture. However, over the past decade, the average Harley-Davidson rider has crept up in age. This has inspired the company's designers to revisit the Harley-Davidson roots and bring back that simple yet honest authenticity that rallied so many restless riders who came before.

"Like previous generations of bikes, Dark Custom represents an attitude," said Paul James, Director of Product Communications for Harley-Davidson. "We'd be kidding ourselves if we said history didn't have an impact on the designs of these Dark Customs. The same sort of utilitarian attitude that drove bike design in the postwar years is alive and well today. Dark Custom is about stripping away the chrome and embellishments that don't define a younger generation of riders and exposing the bike in a way that screams 'make your own statement.'"

Dark Custom's stripped-down designs are not only about anti-embellishment, they also allow Harley-Davidson to make these bikes affordable for up-and-coming riders. While other more expensive models may lead young people to believe a Harley-Davidson is simply out of economical reach, some Dark Custom bikes are under $10,000, with several others only slightly higher. Last year's break through stripped down sportster model, the Nightster ®  retails for $9,600 while others such as the Street Bob ® are under $14,000. In addition to the Nightster ® , the Dark Custom collection includes the all-new Cross Bones ® , Night Rod ® Special, Night Train ®, Fat Bob ® and Street Bob ® .

In lieu of chrome, full fenders and other features considered traditional Harley-Davidson, Dark Custom is a free-spirited group of bikes with deliberate under- and overtones of rebellious expression. While darker components such as blacked-out wheel rims, fenders, hubs, engine assembly and handle bars mold the collection's darker image, Dark Custom's distinct persona is more about self expression.

Whether it's the bobber style soft tail, classic Sportster ® or anything in between, every Dark Custom holds a rebellious grudge with aggressive, often random styling. Take the black handle bars using the same paint used to tag bridges and buildings back in the day, or the chopped and bobbed fenders. Then there are the signature "fists-high-in-the-air" handlebar designs, the stitched seats and a punk rock color scheme. Subtleties include front fork gaiters, mag wheels and grind pegs reminiscent of your '80s BMX bike. The overall clean design exposes more components and contributes greatly to the collection's randomly raw and gritty appearance.

Each class of bike within the Dark Custom collection carries basic performance and design traits of its immediate family, but that's where the familiarity -- and friendship for that matter -- ends. You can sum up the style of the Dark Custom collection in three words: raw and random.

But raw and gritty is not all you get. Things like Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), straight-shot exhaust, reduced clutch lever effort, high performance carbon fiber drive belts, more responsive engines and redesigned gauges are enough to take any unsuspecting outlaw out of the '70s and into the now.

"Dark Custom is raw and genuine, so young riders can make their own statement," said Willie G. Davidson, Vice President of Styling. "It starts where we began. Rebellious. Lean and hungry. Honest and familiar. It's good to be home."

The Harley-Davidson Dark Custom collection includes:

The all-new Cross Bones ® : The only thing soft about this Softail® is the seat. It features a chopped front fender, retro air cleaner cover and a smooth lowered suspension that's closer to the road than any model in its class. It also boasts an air-cooled, rigid mounted, 1584cc Twin Cam 96B balanced engine with a blacked-out finish that's pure badass.

 

The 1200 Nightster ® : The Sportster® has seen a lot of refinement over the years and this one is no exception. It features a gray and black color scheme with old-school fork gaiters, chopped rear fender, low suspension seat and a narrow, nimble frame for prowling back alleys. The 1200cc Evolution V-Twin engine hits the ground running.

 

Night Rod ® Special: It came from the dark side of wherever your mother told you not to go. The Night Rod's ® race-inspired detailing and shades of black metal mesh perfectly with the bike's performance characteristics. The liquid-cooled Revolution® engine gets an upgrade to 1250cc for 2008 while a new slipper clutch and optional ABS complete the high-tech package.

 

Night Train ®: An unforgettable dark profile with an even darker soul. Night Train's® narrow front wheel, bobtail fender, drag-style bar on risers and forward controls are complemented by a black powder-coated engine and six-speed transmission. The bullet headlamp, low-riding seat and totally exposed engine assembly give this bike a classic yet commanding look.

 

Fat Bob ® : Thick and compact like a bulldog, the Fat Bob ® is aggression on two wheels. Its design centers on the power and glory of a vibration-isolated Twin Cam 96® engine while the solid 16" wheels, dual headlamps and Tommy-gun exhaust shield on custom pipes offer ample warning to stand back.

 

Street Bob ® : It brings you back to a day when the best way to make a bike go faster and look mean was to strip off metal parts. The Street Bob's ® low-mounted solo seat, powder-coated covers, sculpted emblems and high handle bar design give it a powerful profile while neighbors are sure to recognize the rumble of its V-Twin engine.

 

 

Hells Angles Founder Sues HBO

California - Hells Angels Founder, Sonny Barger filed a lawsuit last week in federal court in Los Angeles against HBO, the White Mountain Production Company and the project's writer/executive producer, Mr. Michael Tolkin, claiming in the suit that the cable network and producer cut him out of an upcoming pilot he helped develop.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the series "1%" set in Arizona, is a story of one of the toughest motorcycle clubs in the country, a chapter of the fictional motorcycle club, the Death Rangers. The central character is a biker, ‘Misfit‘, sent in from a Northern California chapter to bring it under control. HBO is getting ready to start production on the show, which will feature Donal Logue as the character ‘Misfit‘.

Barger claims in the suit that he and Tolkin pitched HBO on a motorcycle club-centered series. The cable network turned to Tolkin to create it.

Among the objections Barger lists in the suit are "that some characters introduced by Tolkin too close resembled or depicted living persons (in particular a character named 'Chief,' which for decades has been a well-known nickname and/or alias for Sonny Barger). Also, that some place names used in the script were too identifiably associated with Sonny Barger and the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club (such as the primary location being Carefree, AZ, which is the town adjacent to where Sonny Barger currently resides, and that the principal character of the series had moved from Northern California, which is exactly what Barger did)."

The name of the ‘Chief’ character has since been changed to ‘Cap‘, the setting of the show has been moved to Apache Junction, Ariz., and ‘Misfit’ now comes from Valhalla, Ore.

The suit seeks to make the show's script a joint work of Sonny Barger Productions and Tolkin, and seeks to keep the program from being sold or telecast. Barger also wants compensation for what he calls the exploitation of his publicity rights.

S&P’s Eye On Harley-Davidson

Standard & Poor's Ratings Services said it has placed its ratings, including the 'A' corporate credit rating on motorcycle manufacturer Harley Davidson Inc. on negative watch following the deteriorating outlook for the United States’ motorcycle market.

S&P said the company has reduced its full-year 2008 guidance and will take several actions to deal with the difficult market conditions as its domestic retail sales declined 12.8 percent for the first quarter.

S&P said the actions taken include the elimination of 730 personnel, representing 7.8 percent of its total staff, and a decrease in motorcycle shipments of 7.0 percent - 8.2 percent from 2007.

Harley-Davidson registered a reduced revenue growth of 10.8 percent during the first quarter of 2008 largely due to a strike at its plant in the first quarter of 2007.

The rating agency, while it is encouraged by management's steps to address difficult market conditions, also said, that there is a strong possibility demand could fall further before it improves and additional cost-cutting measures may be needed.

S&P said it will meet with management and evaluate the company's contingent plans for dealing with potentially worsening demand and the effect on credit quality to resolve the credit watch listing.

The Milwaukee-based company HOG also announced that its full-year results are tracking well below target levels. Consumers having grown increasingly hesitant to dish out up to $25,000 for a motorcycle with the current economic climate.

"The economic slowdown has affected Harley-Davidson along with many other businesses and sectors, and there's no sign of when things may turn around," according to HD CEO Jim Ziemer.

Mean time Harley-Davidson company handed in earnings of $187.6 million, or 79 cents a share, down from $192.3 million, or 74 cents a share, from the previous year. Also,  there were about 237.3 million shares outstanding in the most-recent period, compared to 258.2 million for the same period a year ago.

Retail sales throughout the U.S., which account for about two-thirds of total unit shipments, dropped 12.8%. Though disappointing, Harley said the overall market for heavyweight motorcycles fell 14%. Internationally, motorcycle sales jumped 16.8%.

The motor company has announced it will decrease its unionized employee base by 370 staff members and will reduce shipments through temporary plant shutdowns and adjustments to their daily motorcycle production rates. The company will also reduce its non-production workforce by 360 employees. In the end, Harley also says it plans to ship 23,000 to 27,000 fewer motorcycles this year than in 2007.

In Ohio, Tyrone Bilal, a Concord Township firefighter is already riding his '97 Yamaha Royal Star Motorcycle to work.

Now that fair, sunny weather has arrived, Bilal says he plans to make that his primary vehicle. "I bought the bike in the spring of last year because I like to ride," he says. "It worked out great because now I’m saving money on gas. The last time I filled up my Chevy Trailblazer. it cost $76, so I'm definitely going to park that now that the weather is nice."

As fuel prices continue to hit record highs, (with predictions of over $4.00 a gallon this summer) motorcycle dealers nationwide have begun seeing their sales increasing earlier in the year than usual. "Based on sales volume, we're up close to 30 percent," according to Brian Haueter, GM of Just for Fun Honda in Northeast Ohio. April through August is normally Haueter's peak season, followed by September and October. This year, his store was busy well before the last frost was over.

"It was weird. March was really strong for us," Haueter says. "When we had that big snowstorm, whole families came out on those crappy roads to buy cycles they couldn't even use yet. Yesterday, we sold every used cycle we had." "I had a construction worker come in and say he puts $100 worth of gas in his truck from here to Mentor, Ohio. With current rebates and low financing, you can get a brand-new motorcycle today for less than $100 a month."

Bob Lapp, sales manager for Western Reserve Harley-Davidson in Mentor, has also noticed a significant increase in floor traffic and sales for this time of year. "Harley-Davidsons are very fuel-efficient," Lapp said. "Depending on how you ride it, they can get more than 50 miles to the gallon."

They also can get rather pricey, but even that isn't stopping people from buying them. "I believe the increase is due to people who maybe always wanted to have a Harley now have reasons to justify the $25,000 purchase," Lapp says. "The Harley is the Jaguar and the Mercedes-Benz of the motorcycle industry."

In some cases, a popular motorcycle can cost more than a Mercedes C-Class sedan. Just as the economy might be heading into a recession, manufacturers are rolling out a troupe of powerful, feature-laden, high-end motorcycles at prices that would have seemed too outlandish for something on just two wheels a few years back.

Harley-Davidson’s Rocker C looks like a custom-built "chopper," and costs $19,545. BMW AG is taking orders for its $25,375 HP2 Sport, and Ducati Motor Holding SPA is charging $72,500 for the Desmosedici RR, based on a model raced in professional competitions.

But at Leo's All Season Vehicles Inc. in Chardon, Ohio, high-tech scooters are generating more interest and sales right now, according to owner Dan Leonetti.

Starting from $1,999 to $2,999, some of the fancy scooters get a whopping 141 miles to the gallon. "It's unbelievable gas mileage," Leonetti says, “If you’re only going a few miles, why start the big car up?"

Nationwide. More than 1,000 Best Western Hotels in the United States and Canada are now identified as "rider-friendly," according to company officials. Best Western will now offer motorcycle riders wipe-down towels at check in and access to a wash station at no additional cost. In addition, some properties will offer designated parking, tar remover, sunscreen and lip balm.

The hotel chain's commitment to designating participating hotels as "rider-friendly" is part of a multi-year agreement between Best Western and the Harley-Davidson Motor Company to bring travel benefits to Harley-Davidson enthusiasts.

"Best Western recognizes that Harley-Davidson and motorcycle enthusiasts have unique needs when on the road, and we're committed to providing them with amenities that make their rides more enjoyable," said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western's senior vice president of marketing and sales. "We're thrilled that more than 1,000 Best Western hotels are 'rider-friendly,' and we will add to this total throughout this year."

Harley-Davidson(R) riders can also register for the Gold Crown Club International Ride Rewards(TM) program, a free, specially-themed rewards program for Harley-Davidson enthusiasts. Harley-Davidson(R) owners or enthusiasts can register by going to http://www.bwrider.com. Once registered online as Ride Rewards members, Harley-Davidson(R) riders will earn 10 points for every U.S. dollar (or Canadian equivalent) spent on qualified room rates, or 250 airline miles per qualified stay, at any of the 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide, including the 1,000 "rider-friendly" properties in North America. By joining Best Western's Gold Crown Club International Ride Rewards loyalty program online, Harley-Davidson enthusiasts will automatically receive Gold Elite status, which includes 10 percent bonus points on every Best Western stay and the ability to purchase points for award redemption, along with other signature benefits.

 

As a complement to Ride Rewards, Best Western will also serve as a preferred hotel chain for Harley-Davidson's interactive Web application "Ride Planner," found at www.harley-davidson.com/experience. Using Microsoft(R) Virtual Earth(TM) technology, the application maps out a variety of picturesque U.S. "Great Roads" and shows Best Western hotels and Harley-Davidson(R) dealerships along the way. Each property listing features hotel descriptions along with a directory of services and amenities. A 10 percent savings is available to customers who book their Best Western reservations through this Web site, or by calling 1-888-224-BIKE.

Most states at one time required all motorcycle riders to wear helmets. But after 1995, the federal government decided to stop withholding highway money from states without helmet laws. Hence, a trend in the other direction began accelerating.

With states weakening or repealing helmet laws, the percentage of riders who wore helmets also began dropping and motorcycle fatality rates increased.

In 1996, 5.6 motorcyclists were killed for every 10,000 registered motorcycles, according to federal transportation officials. By 2006, (the most recent data available), the rate had risen to 7.3 for every 10,000 motorcycles.

In raw numbers, the annual death toll for motorcyclists rose from 2,160 to 4,810 during that same period. These numbers seem to contradict claims by some motorcycle groups that helmet laws alone don't save lives.

"The data is pretty compelling," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters, herself an avid motorcyclist who survived a crash while wearing a helmet she displays in somewhat battered condition in her office. "It's discouraging to see the (fatality) numbers going up. But at least people are talking about it now."

GNS analyzed data from the federal government's Fatality Analysis Reporting System on thousands of motorcycle deaths between 2002 and 2006. The analysis found:

About 42 percent of riders killed were not wearing helmets.

 

Green Motorcycles?

Hybrid Dynamics,  a hybrid technology company, has entered a letter of intent to acquire New Jersey-based manufacturer, Delaware American Motors. The Utah-based, Hybrid Dynamics develops proprietary technology which combines gasoline engines with electric motor and hydraulic technologies. In essence, a drive-train design that uses three separate motors to maximize fuel efficiency.

“Delaware American’s in-house design and state-of-the-art prototyping capability, coupled with Hybrid’s broad-market vision and green-technology approach, make the two companies perfect partners,” says Paul Ressler, president of Hybrid Dynamics.

Delaware American is known for high-end luxury motorcycles, limited to just 13 bikes, one for each of America’s original colonies. Each motorcycle in their line-up features the proprietary DAM Apex design with an S&S 124 cubic inch 140 horsepower v-twin engine with a top speed of 140 mph.

The proposed acquisition could see future Delaware American motorcycles featuring Hybrid Dynamic’s Extend Range Technology. “Hybrid’s emphasis on advanced drive-train technologies can only enhance our already impressive performance characteristics,” says Mark Klein, owner of Delaware American. “Both companies bring deeply-experienced, innovative management to the table. These two groups together make a formidable team that can do great things in the motor sports arena.”

The proposed purchase is expected to close by April 30th, 2008.

Vintage Motorcycle Racing Returns To Willow Springs

It has been announced, that the fast 2.5 mile track at Willow Springs International Motorsports Park in Rosamond, Calif. will be the third stop on the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) Historic Cup Road Race Series. Over thirty classes of modern and vintage motorcycles will race between  April 12th & 13th, 2008 highlighting The 13th Annual Corsa Moto Classica.

Race classes will include pre-1940 motorcycles, classic race bikes from the ’60s & ’70s, and superbikes from the ’80s. Modern motorcycles will compete in a separate race and there even a race featuring motorcycles and their sidecars.

In addition to the AHRMA race, the Corsa Moto Classica will hold a vintage motorcycle bike show featuring such classic bikes as Norton Manx and Harley KR motorcycles.

Admission to the entire weekend’s events including pit pass access is $10.00 per person. Children under eight years of age are free with a paying adult.

AMA To Give Away Five Motorcycles

The American Motorcyclist Association will give away five motorcycles this year.
The five bikes being given away represent a broad spectrum of two-wheel classes, offering a prize to suit every different riding taste.

A Triumph Bonneville is the top prize of the AMA Membership Sweepstakes. Members can enter the sweepstakes by completing the required form included in their AMA renewal package. Three other sweepstakes winners will win US $1,000 gift certificates from BikeBandit.com. AMA members are also eligible to win bikes at events from four different series.

The AMA will also give away a Suzuki DR-Z400S, a Suzuki Street Bike,
a Moto Guzzi Norge Sport-Tourer, and a new BMW F800GS. More info can be found at AMA’s website: www.amadirectlink.com

The Boss Rocks The 105th

Harley-Davidson has recently announced that Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band will be one of the legendary bands and performers to take center stage at Harley's 105th anniversary celebration on August, 29th & 30th, 2008 at the Summerfest grounds in Milwaukee,WI.

"Our 105th Anniversary entertainment line-up is second to none and really epitomizes the diversity of the Harley-Davidson family and experiences," said Joanne Bischmann, vice president, Licensing and Special Events. "We're very excited to welcome home our extended family to Milwaukee as we celebrate the future of Harley-Davidson."

It's a massive celebration this year for all things Harley-Davidson, or Harley related. In addition to the 105th year of business for the motor company, the Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary as well.

 

 

"Easy Rider" associate producer Bill Hayward has died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said Thursday. He was 66-years-old.

California - Bill Hayward shot himself in the heart with a handgun in Castaic, California on March 9th, according to county coroner's spokesman, Craig Harvey. The suicide occurred in a trailer where Hayward was living. Hayward has already been cremated and a memorial service is planned for April according to family and friends.

"He was a wonderful man and this is a great tragedy for our family," "Easy Rider" director and star Dennis Hopper said in a statement. Hopper was married and had a daughter with Hayward's sister Brooke in the 1960’s.

Hayward was born March 27, 1941, the son of theatrical agent Leland Hayward and actress Margaret Sullivan, whose family is as famous for its tragedy and torment as its movie making.

Sullivan, who starred in the film "The Shop Around the Corner" and who also had been married to Henry Fonda and director William Wyler, died of a drug overdose. Her daughter Bridget also died of an overdose just eight months later.

Bill Hayward and his sister Brooke, a model and later an actress, both were sent to ritzy boarding schools and to equally pricey mental institutions during their teen years. The family's troubles were chronicled in Brooke Hayward's best-selling 1977 memoir "Haywire," which became a 1980 TV movie that Bill Hayward produced.

In 1969, Hayward collaborated with Peter Fonda and Hopper on "Easy Rider," the groundbreaking, counter-cultural biker movie and then worked largely as an entertainment lawyer, with occasional producing credits. The movie "Easy Rider" led to a lifelong love of motorcycles for Hayward, who liked to ride his Harley-Davidson around Hollywood in the 1970’s. He had a serious motorcycle accident about five years ago that left him severely injured and mentally diminished.

In addition to sister Brooke, Bill Hayward is survived by a son, Leland Hayward of Los Angeles, and a daughter, Bridget Hayward of Washington, D.C

MILWAUKEE (AP) - A continued sluggish U.S. market for motorcycles pushed Harley-Davidson Inc.'s third-quarter profit down 15.3 percent, and the motorcycle maker said it expects next year to be difficult, too.

Domestic buyers are seeing oil prices rising and the home market crumbling, so they're being cautious about spending, even when it comes to the iconic brand's bikes, Chief Executive Jim Ziemer said in an interview. "It's all of those, with the consumer on the sidelines saying 'We're going to wait and see what's going on,'" he said.

Domestically, sales were down 2.5 percent in the three months ended Sept. 30, while the overall U.S. heavyweight market fell 4.4 percent. Overseas, Harley's sales were up 8.8 percent. Worldwide retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles were flat in the quarter, down 0.2 percent. Revenue dropped 5.8 percent to $1.54 billion from $1.64 billion last year.

The company had figured sales would be difficult, so they cut bike shipments and earnings expectations in September. Shipments were down 10.8 percent to 86,535 units. Net income for the quarter totaled $265 million, or $1.07 per share, compared with a profit of $312.7 million, or $1.20 per share, a year ago.

The earnings decline still beat Wall Street projections. Analysts had expected a profit of $1.05 per share on revenue of $1.52 billion, according to a survey by Thomson Financial. Revenue was slightly above analyst expectations of $1.52 billion.

Harley-Davidson shares fell 65 cents, or 1.33 percent, to close at $48.30 Friday.
Ziemer said the results were disappointing but not unexpected. The company knew in September that sales were slowing and expects a challenging environment next year, he said. "We know what we have right now, we're going to manage the business prudently and cautiously, and err on the side of being very cautious," Ziemer said.

The company lowered its earnings expectations for the year last month and maintained those on Friday. Harley anticipates 2007 net income to drop 4 percent to 6 percent, to a range of $3.69 to $3.77 per share. Analysts have predicted earnings of $3.73, according to Thomson. The company reported a 2006 profit of $3.93 per share.

Harley-Davdison also kept intact its 2008 earnings expectations of growth between 4 percent and 7 percent, on moderate revenue growth and lower operating margins. It had previously forecast earnings growth between 11 percent and 17 percent for 2008 as well as 2009.

Last month, Harley-Davidson announced it was no longer providing 2009 guidance.
The Milwaukee-based company expects full-year shipments to be between 328,000 and 332,000 units, down from 349,196 units last year.

For the first nine months of the year, worldwide retail sales were down 0.8 percent, with U.S. sales down 4.7 percent, slightly outpacing the overall U.S. heavyweight market's drop of 4.4 percent in the same period. International sales were up 12.9 percent for the year. Revenue so far this year fell 1 percent to $4.34 billion, while earnings per share have fallen 0.3 percent to $2.95 a share.

The company expects international sales to continue outpacing domestic ones, as they've been doing for the past three years.

International sales are growing as Harley-Davidson takes over independent distributors in countries such as Italy and Australia, Ziemer said. International bike shipments account for nearly 27 percent of shipments so far this year, compared with 22.5 percent last year.
Harley repurchased 9.7 million shares of stock, at a cost of $509 million, during the quarter. So far this year, the company has repurchased 17.3 million shares at a cost of $1 billion.

UBS analyst Robin Farley wrote in a research note that UBS expected the company to repurchase $200 million in stock in the quarter. Each $100 million of repurchase may add 2 cents to earnings per share for the full year in 2008, she wrote.

MILWAUKEE - Cities from New York to Denver are giving motorcyclists the silent treatment. This worries riders rights groups, which fear that a wave of ordinances aimed at muffling Harley-Davidsons, Hondas, Choppers (and the like) will create a confusing patchwork of laws that motorcyclists won't be able to navigate. The motorcycle industry is concerned it could turn these frustrated riders away.

"From our perspective, this creates enormous problems for us because people notice the one motorcycle that makes a lot of noise," said Bill Wood, spokesman for the American Motorcyclist Association. "They don't notice the 50 that pass that don't. So there's a perception that motorcycles are noisy."

Ordinances come in many forms. Some are against certain types of products, like mufflers that would rattle the apples off of trees, while others are aimed more on the intent of the driver, who may want to turn some heads or rile up the neighbors on a Sunday afternoon.

As of July 1, riders in New York City are subject to a minimum $440 fine for having a muffler or exhaust system that can be heard within 200 feet.

In Lancaster, Pa., starting this month riders, and all motor vehicle drivers, could be ticketed for drawing attention to themselves, whether by creating too much noise by revving their engines or doing hard accelerations. Tickets start at $150.

As of July 1, motorcyclists in Denver could be ticketed $500 for putting mufflers on their bikes made by someone other than the original manufacturer, if the bike is 25 years old or less. These so-called after-market products can be louder than their manufacturer-made counterparts.

Denver's plan is unique because it targets the after-market equipment. Wood said it limits riders' freedom to choose what products to use. Many motorcyclists who need to replace parts use these products, rather than go to a dealer, which can be more expensive, Wood said.

Ordinances restricting motorcycle noise have been around for years. The American Motorcyclist Association does not track the numbers of such ordinances and often only hears about them just as they're being passed, Wood said. The association would rather see an ordinance that targets all vehicles or uses a decibel test to measure actual noise output.

The changes leave riders confused, said Pamela Amette, vice president of the Motorcycle Industry Council, the industry's trade group. Enforcement can be subjective, too.
The Council is working with the American Society of Engineers to establish a sound test that would help equalize enforcement. A similar test has been set for off-road bikes, and several states have adopted it, Amette said.

The group hopes to have the test ready next year. The new tests could even heighten demand for quieter systems, she said, because riders will know what they need.
"Unless it's very precise and adopted uniformly, then it's just really not fair to the riders and to the industry," Amette said.

The stakes for the industry are big. There were 1.1 million new motorcycles sold for $9.8 billion in 2005, the most recent year available, the Council said. Parts, including those after-market mufflers, accessories and riding apparel, were an additional $2.8 billion.
Noise complaints of all types are on the rise, as more Americans feel they are losing control of their neighborhoods, said Ted Rueter, who leads a national anti-noise group. Denver's ordinance is music to his ears.

"I think more and more people are putting pressure on communities," said Rueter, director of Noise Free America, based in Madison, Wis. "That fact that Denver has done so is going to give a lot of encouragement to people who love peace and quiet."
Harley-Davidson Inc., which tried in the 1990s to trademark its products' distinctive rumble, is monitoring the growth of anti-noise ordinances that target motorcyclists, said Rebecca Bortner, a Harley spokeswoman.

The Milwaukee-based motorcycle maker feels the issue is less about the equipment and more about what riders do with it. The company asked its dealers a few years ago to stop carrying the loudest of after-market mufflers, straight un-muffled pipes, Bortner said.
Harley is asking dealers to encourage riders to be considerate, she said. Sometimes, that means riders should put a bike in neutral when they're in a driveway. They can fire up the engine down the street.

"You hear about jackhammers in New York City and people who live close to airports," Bortner said. "We are very sympathetic to that, but our stance is that we're really encouraging riders to take steps to be considerate and socially responsible about it."
All motorcycles sold for road use in the U.S. are subject to federal noise laws keeping them within a certain range of decibels, below 80 decibels from 50 feet away, said the industry council's Amette. A good rule of thumb is that your average motorcycle, as approved by government standards, should hum like a sewing machine, she said.

But some bikes are louder. That happens when bikers buy after-market equipment, either for the sound or for more heightened performance.
Manufacturers divide their motorcycle products into two types, for highway use and off-road, which is more performance-based and sometimes louder. You can buy a road bike and then add an off-road muffler, which means it'll be louder on the street. That's what Denver's ordinance aims to stop.

Enforcement has been minimal, said Wade Eldridge, a motorcycle-riding lawyer representing a handful of riders who have been ticketed so far. He said they're trying to get the ordinance declared unconstitutional because it creates two classes of motorcyclists.

Rider Dave Christy, of Golden, Colo., said he knows some bikers now avoid Denver rather than deal with the new ordinance. The problem is riders who enjoy being loud without a thought to people who live nearby, he said. Christy, a 53-year-old mechanic, uses after-market mufflers on his bikes, but he knows when not to be loud.
"What came out of the ordinance is a result of what motorcyclists pretty much brought down on themselves," he said.

DALLAS - A police motorcycle officer died after a crash while escorting Hillary Rodham Clinton's motorcade to a campaign rally.
"I have just learned of the death of a Dallas police officer in a devastating accident that occurred as the motorcycle officers were leading our cars to this site," Clinton told reporters. "We are just heartsick over this loss of life in the line of duty."

The New York senator and Democratic presidential candidate said she planned to cut short a rally in Fort Worth, Texas, in order to visit the officer's family, as well as call the police chief to express her sympathy. "This reminds us once again what the men and women in law enforcement do every single day," Clinton said. "It is important that we respect and appreciate their service. I certainly am grateful for all they do for me and, more importantly, they do for the citizens of cities like Dallas and across the country. I just want to express my deepest condolences to the family and the Dallas police department for this tragic, tragic accident."

Dallas police spokesman Sgt. Gil Cerda said he had no details on the crash, which happened shortly after 9 a.m.

Billy Lane's DUI manslaughter trial on hold awaiting blood test results.

Florida - Well-known Bike Builder Billy Lane is facing DUI manslaughter charges resulting from an accident back in September 2006. The accident happened we Lane crossed a double yellow line and hit Gerald Morelock head on, killing him instantly.

Lane's defense team requested more time at a hearing this past Wednesday. They waiting for test results of the blood samples sent to a Colorado lab this past January.

Blood tests at the time of the accident indicate Lane's BAC level was more than twice over the legal limit.

Circuit Judge Meryl Allawas hopes to set a trial date at the next hearing which is scheduled for April 11, 2008.


Motorcyclists who used to park at Masters Hall, which is scheduled for demolition to make way for a new Life Sciences Building, will have to find new parking since campus construction doesn't include any new plans for dedicated motorcycle parking.

Texas - Scott Kangas, associate director of parking services, said two students have called and asked if there are any plans to replace the motorcycle parking. Kangas said there are no current plans to relocate the motorcycle spaces while they are unavailable during the demolition of Masters Hall and construction of the Life Sciences Building.

However, there are alternative motorcycle parking spots around campus. Spots can be found in 18 different parking lots around campus, such as the six-spot parking lot directly behind Wooten Hall. There are also parking spaces behind the Chemistry Building. A permit is required for students, faculty and staff members to park their motorcycles in those spots. Many of the spaces are 24-hour parking lots.

The end of the demolition of Masters Hall and the building of the new Life Sciences Building are planned for fall 2010. Kangas said the motorcycle parking lot would be reopened once Masters Hall is finished being torn down and the new Life Sciences Building is completed.

Motorcycle spots, like the spots behind Wooten Hall, now tend to be fuller because of the loss of the Masters Hall bike parking lot.

Chase Huddleston, a sophomore, drives his motorcycle to campus. He did not park at Masters Hall but said, "It is harder to find parking spots due to the construction on Terrell and Masters Hall…. I tried to park behind Wooten Hall the other day and these spots were all full."

Motorcycle parking spots are spaced out around campus while student car parking spots are grouped together.

Jeremy Adams, a junior, said he used to park at Masters Hall for his chemistry class.

"It would be nice to park where Masters Hall used to be," he said. "The parking spots are not noticeably fuller yet, but it is still cold. I am sure once it warms up, the spots will definitely be full."

Adams said he preferred driving a motorcycle to a car.

"Driving a motorcycle definitely gets my vote. I have a premium pass and I find it easier to find motorcycle parking spots than car parking spots," he said.


Thomas Schulman of Eltingville, NY supposedly reported his $39,500 Orange County Choppers-built motorcycle stolen in December 2005, collected the insurance money -- and kept on riding.

New York - The scheme collapsed in mid-2006 when Schulman brought the bike back to Orange County, N.Y., for some work, then got into an accident and filed a civil claim against the custom garage for shoddy work, said William J. Smith, a spokesman for District Attorney Daniel Donovan.

An investigator for the company did some digging and discovered that the bike Schulman crashed was the same one he reported stolen, Smith said.

Police arrested Schulman Tuesday and charged him with third-degree insurance fraud, grand larceny and falsely reporting an incident which are all felonies in the state of New York.

Schulman's lawyer tells a different story.

He says the bike Schulman was riding when he crashed was an entirely different ride, built separately by one of Orange County's mechanics, with a few from the original chopper before it was stolen.

"I can show that the engine, the transmission, and other key components of the bike that was seized were separate and distinct," said Edward Pavia, Schulman's lawyer.

Schulman first bought the motorcycle from Orange County Choppers, run by the father-and-son-team of Paul SR. & Jr. who star on the custom motorcycle series on cable TV, "American Chopper". The bike was built in 2002.

Pavia said Schulman's bike was, in fact, stolen. He claims someone forced their way into a trailer attached to Schulman's pickup, cut the padlocks, and took the bike.

Right before it was stolen, Schulman was planning to sell the motorcycle at a bike shop and had removed some of the custom parts, Pavia contended.

A mechanic at Orange County, who Pavia only knows as Nick, custom-built a second bike for Schulman, the lawyer said, and attached the parts from the old motorcycle.

"The second bike that was custom-built by Orange County was kind of done on the side," Pavia said. "He said he'd produce a VIN number and a certificate of title. And of course, after the bike was built, he said he couldn't provide my client with anything."

A representative of Orange County declined comment last week.

Schulman was arraigned Wednesday March 5 in Stapleton Criminal Court and released on his own recognizance. He's scheduled to return to court April 17, 2008.


The Ohio Attorney General accuses a local motorcycle dealer of using unfair or deceptive tactics.

Ohio - Andrew Cycles in Salem, Ohio is facing a consumer protection lawsuit in Colmbiana County Court for misleading advertised sales prices, adding fees such as freight assembly and dealer services to advertised prices and stating questionable odometer readings as well as other illegal practices.

The State Attorney's office is seeking to prevent Andrews Cycles from continuing with the deceitful practices, reimbursing customers damaged by the alleged misleading acts as well as a fine against the business.

Andrews Cycles has sold motorcycles for over twenty years and sells new Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki and Polaris motorcycles as well as ATVs and is heavily involved in the local racing community.

 

On Tuesday, hundreds of Harley-Davidson women riders joined together in Daytona Beach, Fla., along with Season two "American Idol" star Kimberley Locke for one of the largest Harley-Davidson women's rides in history.

Florida - Originally, the Harley-Davidson Women's Day Ride benefiting Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) was to be limited to 105 women, but after an incredible response from women riders asking to join the ride, Harley-Davidson decided to increase the size to accommodate the large demand.

Locke and hundreds of other female riders were joined by Karen Davidson, great-granddaughter of one of the Company's founders, as well as the six Get Down to Daytona contest winners as they cruised through the streets of Daytona to thunderous applause from spectators.

"The success of the Women's Day Ride reflects the growth of our female riders over the past two decades, from 4% in 1990 to 12% today. The event raised more than an incredible $67,000 in contributions," said Davidson.

Women participating in the ride raised money for their local MDA office to help send children to MDA Summer Camps. Three women received special recognition as the top fundraisers for the event: Joanne Mold of Forest Hill, Md., ($3,055 raised), Dee Roberts of Bernville, Pa., ($2,717) and Lynne Cone of Houston ($2,715). Each received a 105th Anniversary Harley-Davidson women's jacket, and had lunch with Karen Davidson, the six Get Down to Daytona contest winners and MDA ambassadors.

One week at MDA Summer Camp costs $800 per child, so women who raised that amount or more received a unique Harley-Davidson/MDA sterling silver and gold charm in recognition of their gold-level fundraising. Women who raised at least $400 received a sterling silver charm.

For more information about the Get Down to Daytona contest, profiles of the six winners, and more, visit www.harley-davidson.com/womensride.

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Buell Motorcycle Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services, Inc. Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel, and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport motorcycles in addition to motorcycle parts, accessories and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services, Inc. provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs to Harley-Davidson dealers and customers.

 

The Indiana House gave final approval yesterday to a House Bill 1318, a bill that replaces a controversial $10 annual fee for motorcycle owners, earmarked for the state Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Fund, with a 30-cent increase on registration fees for all cars, motorcycles, and light trucks.

Indiana - Lawmakers approved the provision as part of last year's state budget. The $10 fee drew immediate outrage from bikers statewide. The claimed that it wasn't right for them to bear the burden of brain and spinal cord research.

"It was just unfair to only put a fee on motorcycles, especially at that large of a rate," said Rep. Carolene Mays, an Indianapolis Democrat and author of HB 1318. "Because about 47 percent of spinal cord and brain injuries come from accidents involving motor vehicles, we wanted the fee to be across the board."

About 160,000 Hoosiers suffer from traumatic spinal cord or brain injuries.

Mays introduced a plan last year that would have increased traffic fines to pay for the fund, but it was amended to also raise registration fees for motorcycles.

Later, the entire proposal was amended into the state budget where it was changed several times in the session's last few days. Fiscal leaders stripped out the increased fees for traffic violations, leaving only the motorcycle language and the provisions creating the spinal cord fund in the final version

The provision went initially unnoticed by ABATE of Indiana -- an advocacy group for motorcyclists that pushes bike safety -- and Governor Mitch Daniels, who rides a motorcycle.

"Nobody even knew this was buried in the budget," the governor said some weeks after signing the bill. "I didn't. They didn't."

Yesterday, HB 1318 passed unanimously. The new fee will generate about $1.6 million for the research fund

 

Despite the need to patrol the streets and keep bikers safe, police raided three strip clubs during the first weekend of Bikeweek and arrest 13 dancers and 2 managers.

Florida - Most of the dancers were charged with violating the city's ban on public nudity, but other arrests included prostitution, performing a simulated sex act and possession of illegal drugs. Both managers were charged with permitting nudity in a place that serves alcohol.

The arrests came a few weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court refused a request by Lollipops Gentleman's Club on Grandview Avenue to review the city's nudity and adult business zoning laws, ending a seven-year legal fight.

"This is the first time we've locked people up since the court case," police Chief Mike Chitwood said.

Police targeted every adult nightclub in the city Friday and Saturday, making arrests Saturday at three, Molly Brown's on Seabreeze Boulevard, the Shark Lounge and Club Topic on International Speedway Boulevard.

"Those that were not cited were in compliance while we were there," police spokesman Jimmie Flynt said.

William Henry Bittorf, 36, manager of Club Topic on International Speedway Boulevard, declined to comment on the arrests.

"He told us we could do this," 23-year-old Ormond Beach dancer Olivia Moesel said of Bittorf, according to a police report that also noted she danced topless.

Attempts to reach Nicholas Montagna, 55, manager of the Shark Lounge on International Speedway Boulevard, were unsuccessful.

An attorney representing Molly Brown's on Seabreeze Boulevard said the one dancer arrested at that club, Tracy Oskerson, 37, of Longwood could have defended her case.

"I'm told that the arresting officer had a lot to drink that night, particularly at Molly Brown's," said Gary Edinger, a Gainesville attorney who represents the club. "To us, that would make the case defensible, but the dancer elected to pay the ($100) fine."

Edinger said Molly Brown's is committed to complying with city laws.

The police chief declined to respond to the accusation about an officer drinking heavily, but said more than one officer was at the club.

"He (Edinger) should worry about complying with the law," Chitwood said.

City laws require dancers in clubs with alcohol to wear bikinis, not racy G-strings and pasties. Nudity is permitted only at the far west side of the city in clubs without alcohol. No such clubs currently exist.

In October, the Pink Pony, Shark Lounge and Lollipops were cited for violating the nudity law. Their cases are pending before the city's Code Enforcement Board. Chitwood said Saturday's charges would go before the Code Enforcement Board.

Police declined to reveal how many officers were involved in the anti-nudity operation and why they decided to target the clubs during Bikeweek, the annual motorcycle rally that draws nearly 500,000 motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the world.

Many bikers are questioning the timing and how it affected the decision to discontinue the motorcycle safety campaign in place last year. This year, five motor-related fatalities occurred during the first few days of Bikeweek. This rate is an increase over the eight fatalities that occurred last year while a motorcycle awareness safety campaign targeting motorists was in effect to combat the 21 fatalities in 2006

 

In one of the most outrageous acts the American Motorcyclist Association has seen in years, the New York City Transportation Department defiantly refuses to change its rules so that they comply with federal law to allow motorcycles to use high-occupancy-vehicle (HOV) lanes.

New York - The department states that it won't change its rules to comply with federal law because the New York City Police Department opposes the change. But transportation officials refuse to explain the police opposition despite numerous attempts by the American Motorcyclist Association to get an explanation. The Police Department opposition was supposed to have been recorded, but wasn't, in a public forum--a city Transportation Department hearing that was held Sept. 12, 2007 to change department rules related to motorcycle use of HOV lanes to comply with federal law. The rule change was to go into effect within 60 days of that hearing.

"New York City’s public servants are intentionally ignoring a law passed by the American people's elected representatives in the U.S. Congress," says Imre Szauter, AMA legislative affairs specialist, who has been trying to get answers from New York City transportation officials on the HOV-motorcycle issue.

"Because the New York City Transportation Department refuses to change its rules, every American motorcyclist faces tickets and fines when riding in New York City HOV lanes," Szauter continues. "This is outrageous and totally unacceptable. Karen Perrine of Staten Island, New York, suffered through a two-and-a-half-year nightmare because of a ticket she got on Oct. 26, 2005 while riding her Yamaha FZ1 motorcycle in a New York City HOV lane."

The New York Department of Motor Vehicles Appeals Board, in a letter dated February 15, 2008, agreed that Perrine was within her rights to use the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway HOV lane when she was pulled over and ticketed for an HOV lane violation. The board reversed her conviction and removed it from her driving record.

Perrine, however, is afraid to use the HOV lane again.

"When I opened the envelope from the Appeals Board I felt some satisfaction in having the conviction reversed, but it's been extremely unfair to me that I have had to sit for over a year and a half with the points from this ticket on my driver's license, while I waited for a decision from the Appeals Board," Perrine says. "I was not breaking the law.

"In the last year and a half, those points have made me eligible for a new $300 New York Drivers Assessment Fee and led to the cancellation of my auto insurance policy. The total cost of this ticket including the appeal, the Drivers Assessment Fee and the replacement auto insurance policy has been $1,270," she says.

"When I attended a public hearing at the New York City Department of Transportation in September 2007, and read a statement about my ticket and traffic court hassles, I thought that I was helping to change the local traffic laws and prevent other bikers from suffering as I have," she says. "The New York City Department of Transportation had drafted an amendment that would make local traffic rules comply with the U.S. Code, finally. The new rules were to take effect by this spring."

In recent years, motorcyclists in Phoenix and Pittsburgh also were ticketed for riding in HOV lanes. But those tickets were dismissed when the ticketed motorcyclists and the American Motorcyclist Association pointed out that federal law allows motorcycles in HOV lanes.

In fact, Pittsburgh even put up signs allowing motorcycles in HOV lanes after officials there were informed of the federal law.

The U.S. Code governing HOV lanes--Title 23, Section 166 (23USC166)--states agencies that govern HOV lanes must allow motorcycles to use the lanes unless they prove motorcycles pose a safety hazard on the lanes, and that proof is accepted by the U.S. Transportation Secretary following a Federal Register notice and public comment period on the ban.

 

The Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum announces "Awesome-Ness," a new exhibit honoring master motorcycle designer and builder Arlen Ness.

Ohio - An icon in the motorcycling industry, and 1992 inductee into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, Ness will join prominent colleagues and friends at the Museum in Pickerington, Ohio, on July 24, 2008, for the grand opening of "Awesome-Ness."

The fifth in a series of Legends exhibits at the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, "Awesome-Ness" will feature machines and memorabilia from Ness' personal collection. Curated by photographer Michael Lichter, the exhibit will do more than simply display Ness' significant creations; it will delve into the stories behind his influential career. Lichter, author of "Arlen Ness: The King of Choppers," will use his unique perspective on Ness to provide visitors an in-depth look at the celebrated customizer.

More than four decades of groundbreaking designs have earned Arlen Ness his status as an authentic legend. He began his career in the 1960s, with the customization of a 1947 Harley Knucklehead. After entering the Knucklehead in local motorcycle shows, Ness' work was noticed by the press, as well as by potential customers. Soon he was able to start a business custom painting bikes. Not long after, Ness began selling custom parts and created a catalog to keep up with customer demand. As business boomed, Ness continued to create custom motorcycles, with a stretched and lowered style and high-performance engines becoming hallmarks of his designs.

"Awesome-Ness" will feature 11 of Ness' significant creations, including "Untouchable," the 1947 Knucklehead that launched Ness' career. Additionally, the exhibit will spotlight "Two Bad," his 2,000cc twin-engine Sportster; "Ness-Tique," a modern custom inspired by a 1903 Harley-Davidson depicted on a Cartier trophy he won at a Harley-Davidson ride-in show; "Red Flame Chopper," a straightforward, high bar bike inspired by his first Knucklehead; "Top Banana," winner of top honors on the Discovery Channel's "Biker Build Off"; "Overhead Cam Sportster," a one-off 1200cc with sportbike styling that Ness keeps in his office; and "Mach Ness," his helicopter turbine-powered bike. "Awesome-Ness" will also feature three designs inspired by classic cars, "Smooth-Ness," modeled after a bronze of a 1932 Bugatti Roadster; "Ferrari Bike," which evokes the iconic Italian automobiles; and "Nesstalgia," inspired by a classic 1957 Chevy. Together, Ness' creations form a timeline of the custom-bike movement in America. His work has influenced everyone from other bike builders to factory engineers.

Mark Mederski, Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum executive director, says Ness will be the second designer to be featured in the Museum's Hall of Legends. The first designer profiled was 1999 Motorcycle Hall of Fame inductee and Vetter Corporation founder, Craig Vetter. "Like Vetter, Ness' career shaped the entire motorcycle industry," says Mederski. "Ness' contributions, both creatively and from a business perspective, have fueled a global fan club that just keeps growing. We look forward t