Shinya Kimura

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via : the Selvedge Yard

In 1962 I was born in Old Town Tokyo

I was brought up surrounded by the smell of oil and steel, and the sound of machinery

I think this is why this life suits me well

I have Images but I am not inspired by any particular thing

I don’t draw either

I cut steel or bend aluminum listening to how I feel at that moment

I use my own hands and break my back making the bikes

I believe that speaks to peoples emotions and makes them want one... Read more

image by Scott Pommier

http://shinyakimura.blogspot.com



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Motorcycle Organizations You Should Know About Part 2

Hello Everyone,

Welcome to part 2 or our series on "Motorcycle Organizations You Should Know About".  We do hope the first article was very informative and enlightening.  Yesterday we highlighted Motorcycle Safety Foundation(MSF) and Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments(ABATE).  Today we will highlight American Motorcyclist Association(AMA) and our personal favorite Aid to Injured Motorcyclist/National Council of Motorcyclist(AIM/NCOM).  Enjoy

American Motorcyclist Association(AMA) www.ama-cycle.org

Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the motorcycle lifestyle.  AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate many different routes on their journey to the same destination:  freedom on two wheels.  As the world's largest motorcycling organization, the AMA advocates for motorcyclists' interest in the halls of local, state and federal government, the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public opinion.

Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other organization in the world.  AMA member receive money saving discounts from dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike rental, transport, hotel stays and more.  The AMA is everything motorcycle.

AMA membership is as follow: 

Champion $39 a year with free AMA roadside assistance
Defender $49 a year to help protect your right to ride 

As an active member of the world's largest motorcycling advocacy organization, you'll receive:

Free AMA Roadside Assistance
Access to money-saving benefits

Monthly Newsletter - American Motorcyclist
Access to more than 3,000 AMA sanctioned road rides and other events
The ability to enter AMA Racing competition events
Discount on motorcycle gear, apparel and equipment

And most importantly the satisfaction that comes with knowing you're helping safeguard the motorcycling lifestyle through the work of AMA watchdogs who ferret out bad motorcycle laws and ensure the future of the sport.

Help safeguard the future of motorcycling.

For more information on the AMA and their membership benefits visit their website.

Aid to Injured Motorcyclist/National Council of Motorcyclist (A.I.M/NCOM) www.aimncom.com

A.I.M/NCOM is a nationwide legal services with affiliated law office in every state and Canadian Province to serve the legal needs of the motorcycling community ( All The Lawyers Are Motorcyclist who better to have fighting for your rights).  A.I.M. is dedicated towards informing all motorcyclists of their legal rights and help protect and enforce those rights.  

 

A.I.M is 100% Free to all motorcyclist, and there are currently 2 Million A.I.M. Members throughout North America.

This organization is sponsored, completely financed by the Law Offices of Ricard M. Lester(Founder and a Motorcyclist) and is designed to give more complete medical and legal protection to motorcyclists throughout the USA and Canada when involved in an accident.  If your are involved in an accident, your A.I.M ID card instructs emergency medical personnel to call the toll free 1-800 ON-A-BIKE Emergency Hotline and the 24 hour A.I.M. operator will relay your critical medical information and will then immediately notify the emergency contact listed on your membership form.

A.I.M. Also provides the following Free Services:

Lifetime Emergency Membership I.D. Card

24-hour Hotline for all emergency medical personnel

Emergency accident notification

24-hour Free Legal Consultation for all accidents throughout North America

Immediate investigation of all accidents

24-hour Criminal Defense phone consultation

In addition to providing medical protection and legal resource, A.I.M. is also the sole financial sponsor of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists.  The A.I.M attorney legal fees ( a percentage of your damages only if there is recovery), are equal and in some cases, lower than other attorneys.  These fees are in part, donated back to finance N.C.O.M.  However, being an A.I.M. member does not obligate you to use any of the A.I.M. attorneys.

The program currently has three main sections:

Consumer Protection - Making roads safe for motorcyclists and creating liability if they're not

Education - Informing the general public of the problems of motorcyclists and continuing the "Know Your Rights" talks and the A.I.M./NCOM legal/legislative newsletter so that all motorcyclists will be aware of their rights and thus, be able to protect them.
And finally, the most important section, Assistance to the Injured Motorcyclist - Volunteers that will go to any motorcyclist that has been involved in an accident, inform him/her of all rights and help in their hour of need.

110 Offices through North America

Free Legal Consultation

No Recovery = No Fee

We Make House Calls

Attorneys In Every State and Province Who Ride

No Fee on Motorcycle Damage Recovery

Also Auto Accidents

 

Keep your A.I.M. card in your wallet for legal protection any time, anywhere ...
and we hope we never hear from you!

Aid to Injured Motorcyclist - (800) 521-2425 24hour Legal Assistance

Aid to Incarcerated Motorcyclists - (800) 235-2424 24hour Legal Criminal Defense

                   

National Council of Motorcyclist www.aimncom.com

NCOM is the other half to A.I.M.  NCOM has over 1000 motorcycle clubs and organizations.  NCOM is not for individual membership but for motorcycle clubs as a whole to join.  If you belong to a club then your club should belong to NCOM.

As a member of NCOM you would become part of a nationwide united voice that speaks out to protect the rights of motorcyclists and the the future of motorcycling.  Throughout networking with other groups, clubs and associations, we can strengthen our political clout and become more aware and educated int he process.

In addition to networking valuable information and experience, your group would have access to a databank of motorcycle information, legal and legislative services, discrimination protection, speaker program, loan program, safety projects, public awareness and promotional assistance.  Your group would be invited to attend the Annual NCOM Convention, the Annual Board of Directors meeting and regional meetings.  Your group's input could help chart a new course for bikers rights in America.

All we ask in return is that you ensure that each member of your organization receives a free Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) emergency ID care.  Unlike other associations, NCOM is not supported by membership dues and does not solicit funds from member groups or individuals.  All operating costs are paid through the A.I.M. nationwide network of attorneys who are the sole financial support for NCOM.  A.I.M. attorneys contribute a significant portion of their legal fees from motorcycle accident cases back into motorcycling by providing all funding for NCOM...a way of recycling money from motorcycling back into motorcycling.

The National Coalition of Motorcyclist would be a stronger voice with your organization's participation.

For more information please go to their website and the other organizations we have featured in this two part series and make an informed decision.

Motorcycle Organizations You Should Know About Part 1

As we spend all this money on our gear, "hooking" up our motorcycles we need to also pay attention to legislation and see what laws are affecting us as motorcyclist.  As a motorcyclist you should at least join a motorcycle rights organization so you can stay informed.  These organizations are here to fight for our rights.  They are motorcyclist as well, they are not outsiders.  They have a stake in this as we do so their passion is their passion. 

With recent legislation that was trying to get passed for example the South Carolina Helmet Law, the pipe law in NYC, harassment that is taking place against motorcyclist these organization are here to help.

I will be listing four organizations I'm apart of.  We will list two today and the other two tomorrow.  Take your time to research these organizations and see what's best for you but join at least one organization.

Motorcycle Safety Foundation(MSF) http://www.msf-usa.org/  -The Motorcycle Safety Foundation® is the internationally recognized developer of the comprehensive, research-based, Rider Education and Training System (MSF RETS). RETS curricula promotes lifelong-learning for motorcyclists and continuous professional development for certified Rider Coaches and other trainers. MSF also actively participates in government relations, safety research, public awareness campaigns and the provision of technical assistance to state training and licensing programs. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation is a national, not-for-profit organization sponsored by BMW, BRP, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Piaggio, Suzuki, Triumph, Victory and Yamaha.  If you have any questions concerning training and safety this is the place to go.  They offer group training, individual training as well.  

There is no membership fee but they do accept donations.  Your contributions make a difference. Once hundred percent of your contributions goes to work for the National Motorcycle Safety-Fund none is lost to cover administration or other related costs.  

   
Here's a small sample of some key programs you'll be supporting: 

Assisting in the development, production and distribution of educational material on riding responsibly and the perils of riding under the influence of alchol or other drugs.  Producing and distributing rider-awareness public service announcements, seminars and video aimed at educating car drivers on the importance of noticing motorcyclists.  Developing and distributing on-and off-highway riding tips booklet and other materials. Supply helmets and other training materials and aids to rider-training sites across the nation. 

Their slogan is "We're motorcyclist working for motorcyclist and we need your help"   

Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments (ABATE)  http://www.abateny.org/  The name alone should let you know this  organization means business.  ABATE fights for the rights motorcyclists.  There are essentially ABATE chapters throughout the United States and abroad.  They promote motorcycle safety, awareness and education.  There are membership dues associated with ABATE but that's OK because how else are they going to fight our fight.  There are three levels of ABATE membership of NY and they are Full Member $25 per year, Associate Member $20 per year and Member at Large $25 per year.  For explaination of each membership level visit their site.  

If you live in NY here is a brief description of the NY ABATE chapter but do keep in mind there are ABATE chapters throughout the United States. 

 ABATE of New York Aims and Purposes

A.  To review and inform our members about federal, state, and local levels 
      of government motorcycle legislation and to promote favorable 
      motorcycle legislation regarding the following:

1. Insurance
2. Licensing
3. Modifications
4. Bans
5. Restrictions
6. Emissions
7. Noise Levels

B.  To improve road condition thus making roads safer for motorcyclists.

1. Alerting the D.O.T. of dangerous roadway conditions.

C.  To help prevent accidents through education.  

     1.  Promote motorcycle awareness programs for all motorists.  

     2.  Promote rider education course for motorcyclists.  

     3. To work towards insurance reductions through motorcycle 
         rider education and lower motorcycle accidents.

D. To promote positive community relations.

1. Active participation in activities benefiting the common welfare of the community.
2. Active participation in events sponsored by/for charitable organizations.

E. To promote political involvement of motorcyclists.

1. Informing members how elected or appointed government representatives voted on legislation affecting motorcyclists.
2. Encouraging members to register and vote.
3. Encouraging qualified members to run for public office.
4. Encouraging members to write their representatives at federal, state, and local levels, on all issues concerning motorcycles: Favorable or Unfavorable.
5. Attending motorcycle events and distributing information on current status of motorcycle legislation. Report on elected officials at all levels of government who approve or disapprove of said legislation.
6. To act as an information source to help discrimination against motorcyclists.

F.  To act as a legislative liaison between motorcyclists and goverment 
      authorities, police departments, government agencies, insurance 
      compaies, and other organizations.

G.  To report and discourage biased news reporting of motorcyclists.

H. To present and promote a better public image of motorcyclists.  Keeping 
     ABATE of NY, Inc. Sponsored events orderly and peaceful.

TOMORROW PART TWO OF MOTORCYCLE ORGANIZATIONS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT!! 

 

Carson Brown Vintage Motocross

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By Carson Brown via : www.dirtrider.com


I started racing Vintage MX this winter and it's been a blast. This past weekend was the big Dino Daze vintage race up here in the Northwest. It was the 25th annual race and it has grown over the years into one of the biggest vintage races, bike show and swap meets in the country.


If you are into XR75s , Maicos, Huskys and other bikes I can't pronounce, this is the place to be. Vintage racing is for bikes that are usually 1980 and older, but there seems to be a class for just about any older bike you show up with. The old bikes are cool because a lot of the parts on them are handmade and pretty crazy to look at. Some of the owners are just as crazy! These guys are into every little part on their bike and have tons of riding and racing stories from “back in the day”. I think some of the guys like working on and talking about the bikes more than riding them. I can relate.


My dad and I have been restoring XR75's for as long as I can remember. Hunting down the original parts or finding trick aftermarket stuff is fun. Going to the swap meets or checking out E-Bay to find that one last part to finish a restoration is hard work but worth it when the bike turns out perfect.


The thing I like most about vintage bikes is riding them. You can learn a ton from riding a bike with bad suspension and a slow engine. It teaches you how to be smooth. If you over jump something or just try to pound through the whoops, the bike is going to beat you! You also have to learn how to work on them. Vintage bikes seem to have problems that you don't run into on modern bikes (chains coming off, spokes breaking, fouled spark plugs, etc.) ... Read more




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Isle of Man TT 2010 Goes To Electric Zero MotoCzysz

The annual Isle of Man TT races can certainly be described as electric. Manufacturers and riders view the 37.7 miles of narrow twisting road as a proving ground for engineering and skill.

More than 200 riders and several spectators have lost their lives to this chase to push the performance envelope.


But there is now another electric element to the races. Starting last year, the event introduced a zero-emissions race. At the moment, zero emissions means electric.

Last year’s winner was the British-Indian team Agni, with an average speed of 84 mph and a top speed of 102 mph. With conventional bikes, an average of 100 mph is considered the benchmark of indisputable proficiency. The fastest lap ever recorded by any bike was set this year by John McGuinness at 131.578 mph.

This year an American team brought to the fray a unique machine built from the ground up: MotoCzysz’s E1 PC.


MotoCzysz  (pronunced Moto-sizz) sported proprietary batteries, hand-built by a company that also supplies NASA, and an oil-cooled electric engine. The bike won the zero-emissions race with a lap speed of 96.820 mph and a top speed of 135 mph.


We could well see the zero-emissions race turn in times that rival standard races within a few years. And like all such races, this is a proving ground for the technologies and designs that will eventually make their way to the average consumer.


MotoCzysz holds several patents on this advanced electrical technology, and rumor has it the company is in talks with manufacturers, including Indian automobile giant Bajal.


Truly, the electric motorcycles at the TT races are giving us performances that can be described as, well, electric.


—  Isle of Man TT 2010 by Guy Wheatley, the author of  TEXARKANA GAZETTE.COM - a source for motorcycles and bike riding in Texarkana.


Highlights of the 2009 Isle of Man TT & 2010 Isle of Man TT 


Following the success of the inaugural clean emissions motorcycle race on the Isle of Man in 2009, the Isle of Man Government Department of Tourism and Leisure became the official promoters of Zero TT 2010 on the TT Mountain Course, as part of the 2010 TT Race program.


As well as the usual prize money available to teams and riders, the Isle of Man Government created a £10,000 prize fund for the first TT Zero Race team to record a 100mph lap (160.93kph) around the 37 and 3/4 mile course. This landmark was achieved for the first time by a conventional bike in 1957, when Scotsman Bob McIntyre lapped the TT Course in 22 minutes 24.4 seconds for an overall average of 101.03mph. Rob Barber and Team Agni recorded a fastest lap time of 25 minutes 53.5 seconds (87.434mph) in the 2009 clean emissions race.





TT Zero 2010 - The Zero TT clean emissions race on June 9th was an integral part of this year's Isle of Man Time Trials, with the Isle of Man Government offering a £10,000 prize to the first team to record a 100 mph lap. Isle of Man TT racing was established in 1904.


There was no one to challenge John McGuinness as the HM Plant Honda rider dominated all six laps to take the 2010 Isle of Man TT win, setting a new outright lap record and a new race record.


McGuinness is now a 15-time TT winner, with three 130mph+ laps on his way to victory – including a new outright lap record of 130.442mph on lap two, despite slowing down to pit.


The clean emissions race in 2009 was widely credited with accelerating the development of clean emissions transport and many of the technical innovations that were introduced in the Isle of Man are expected to become an integral part of future mass market transport. The event was conceived with the support and involvement of numerous Departments of the Isle of Man Government as part of the Island’s Freedom to Flourish program.


The 2010 clean emissions race on the Isle of Man was renamed "TT Zero" and has become part of the core TT programme, featuring riders from all race classes. The one lap race was open to clean emission motorcycles at 4:30pm on Wednesday June 9th, following the Royal London 360 Superstock and Supersport Races. Qualifying was on Saturday June 5th and Monday June 7th.


Hon Martyn Quayle, MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, Isle of Man Government, released this statement :“We are delighted that the Isle of Man was the first country to run an electric bike race and the fact that there are now events scheduled around the world is a tribute to the Island’s entrepreneurial, innovative spirit and shows what an achievement it was for the Isle of Man to run the groundbreaking inaugural event. We are now building on this fantastic start by properly integrating the clean emissions class into the race program - this really does send a clear signal that electric motorsport is fast evolving and that the TT Races remain at the forefront of motorcycle sport.”


The next Isle of Man TTs are May 28 to June 10, 2012.

The Sunday Movie

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http://MuscleCarFilms.com

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Laconia 2010: Biker Chicz TV Trailer

The East Coast Biker Chicks (ECBC) filmed at Laconia Motorcycle Week and will continue to film in New England this summer. More than 130 women riders from Maine to Vermont, and the greater Boston area belong to ECBC, said club founder Lucky Belcamino. The 1st episode was shot in Boston and on the road to the 2010 Laconia Motorcycle Rally.

Biker Chicz TV will debut worldwide in the fall of 2010. Produced by Blockhead City Entertainment and created by biker author Edward Winterhalder, "Biker Chicz" is a docu-reality TV series featuring the colorful, entertaining and engaging women who are members of an all-female motorcycle club known as the "East Coast Biker Chicks" (ECBC).

Their 47 second trailer was shot in Metro Boston and on the road to Laconia.

Laconia is known as "The Riding Rally" because everyone rides, every day of the rally, and there are so many wide, curvy mountain roadways.

There are more registered motorcycles per capita in New Hampshire than any other state in the USA and nearby, Loudon is the home of motorcycle racing. There was a lot going on at the 87th Annual Laconia -- the oldest motorcycle rally in the country.

Biker Chicz TV will focus on the positive aspects of the Harley-Davidson biker culture and the everyday lives of the East Coast Biker Chicks, based in Metro Boston. The empowered women riders are from all walks of life: a social worker, a scientist, a stock broker, a mortgage broker, a chiropractor and others who are in many ways average everyday typical American women. The members of the club are bound together by their independence, love of motorcycles and the open road, and the camaraderie and fellowship which the ECBC provides.

In the series, we will see the women at home with their families, at work with their colleagues and socializing at motorcycle events, charity functions and club meetings. They will also be featured on various motorcycle rides around New England and in the communities in which they live.

For details, visit their new website: BikerChiczTV.com

Greatest Biker Radio Interviews

I am listening to some really great interviews on BikerRadioMagazine.com. You can listen to the latest radio show on their site. You can also subscribe to the RSS feed and download some of their best interviews, so that you can listen to them when you're working in the shop or chillin' in the den. The downloads are FREE and high quality... MP3s (so give them a few minutes to download to your media player.)

Here are links to some of their best:

July 9th, 2010


This week on Biker Radio Magazine.... Part II of our interview with Marc Mazerolle as he preps a couple of students for a bike build in Sturgis, Lock Baker of Eastern Fabrications joins us, as does Rick Fairless and Bean're. Biker Radio Magazine for Friday, July 9, 2010.  7_9_10.mp3


June 25th, 2010

This week on Biker Radio Magazine, Kevin Baas talks about teaching kids to build bikes, Dan Lawson of the Dan Lawson Band talks about the Service and playing for well known artists before we knew them, Jeff from Bars4Bikers.com talks about... well, Bars and Jack McIntyre takes pictures of bikes and women. For a living. That's Biker Radio Magazine for June 26,    2010.6_25_10.mp3


June 18th, 2010

This is Biker Radio Magazine for June 18, 2010. This week... Chris Croft, Jeff Starke from the "International Master Bike Builder's Association, Belt Drive Betty and some non-scientific noise testing on motorcycle exhaust systems at bike night. Sorry about the wind noise during that segment but there wasn't much we could do about it. You'll get the idea all the same. 6_18_10.mp3

June 11th, 2010

This week, The Canadian Biker Build Off, The Biker Coffee Company, Cindy Rutherford from Century Cycle in California and Irish Rich all join us as we look at Build Off's, refreshments, Father's Day and just building customs... PLUS a top 10 list! 6_11_10.mp3

Motorcycle Safety - THINK!!

We can never stress motorcycle safety enough.  It saddens me when I hear about a motorcyclist passing away on a motorcycle.  The first question I think we all ask are:  How did they go?  What happened?  The answers are usually the same the car didn't see them, they swerved quicker than the car could respond, they were dipping in and out of traffic, whitelining, speeding, etc.

As motorcyclist, motorcycle safety should be the first and last things on our minds.  We have to remember that a motorcycle is a chair that can go 190mph.

We at Biker-Space have complied a list of things motorcyclist should consider when riding when it comes to their safety.  These are things as motorcyclist we need to do as a matter of fact we must do when it comes to our safety.  If you know of anything else that you would like to add feel free.

• Ride defensively at all time.  I don't care if it's an open road.  Your mind should be thinking of the what if and what will be your out.  A deer, dog or cat can come out on you in the middle of the highway and yes it has happened and unfortunately they didn't make it.  It was late at night and he assumed it was all good.

• Always stay aware of all cars around you.  Really watch their movement.  Eventually you will just get a feeling like this mofo is getting ready to do something stupid.  When you stay aware you can call it right on time.

• Always look at least four to eight cars ahead of you not just the car in front of you.  The car in front of you may not be paying attention and by the time he/she pays attention to what's happening up ahead it's too late they are in the mix of the accident.  At least if you are looking ahead you have time to decide how you are going to react to the situation.

• Never ride up on a car.  There is no need to be on their bumper.  If the car suddenly stops you will be in the backseat of their car.  If you are on their bumper you have not stopping distance.  There is no room to maneuver around the situation and if a car is behind you, it's going to be real ugly.

• Really realize the power and the speed of your motorcycle.  You can be up on a car within three seconds flat and make a move and the driver of the car doesn't know the speed of your motorcycle so they figure they have enough time to move out of your way and the crazy thing is they are going in the same direction your motorcycle and now it's too late.  They think they have time.

• Use your mirrors.   Use your mirrors.  We can't stress that enough.  They are there for a reason.  You should get in the habit of also looking over your shoulder as that extra precaution.  If you drive a car driver you know there is a blind spot so it don't hurt to do the little extra move.

• Learn to use both brakes.  Most people either use the front brake and when you coming at a high speed and have to stop they will be thrown over the bike.  If you are only using the back brakes then you will fish tail and start swerving.  When you use both of your brakes it increases your stopping power and it's more safer that way.

• Swerving in and out of traffic.  When you dip in and out of traffic you have to aware that cars do the same thing without signaling and most of them think they can beat you to the lane and we know they can't.  When swerving in and out of traffic and you suddenly end up in the lane realize that we some times scare the motorist.  Either they are going to move back into their lane or just panic.  Use caution and look before you swerve.

• Always use your signals.  Use them use them use them.  Most of us have them in our mirrors, in the front and the back.  They are there to help us be more visible when we are crossing lanes.  Let the cars know what direction you are going.  You should start signaling as soon as you have it set in your mind which direction you are going before you head in that direction. 

• Whitelining.  I hate whitelining but I do it because I'm not going to be stuck in traffic at all period.  Definitely not on a motorcycle.  But you need to white-line with safety in mind and realize what you are doing is very dangerous.  When you white-line use your horns and rev your motorcycle to let the cars know you are coming through the middle.  You should not be speeding along the white-line because as cars sit in traffic and they see a opening they just come over with or without signaling.  If you are speeding you have no way of stopping in time, you will be in their back seat or side door.  Ride at a decent speed to allow you to stop.

We can't depend on cars to consider our safety, that is something that me must do for ourselves and stop assuming it's all good.  Stay aware to stay alive. 

Ride2Live**Live2Ride

 

Upcoming Motorcycle Events June 25-27, 2010

Hello my motorcycle community

Here's a list of what we have at Biker-Space.com in reference to Motorcycle Events that are occurring around town this weekend.  If you have any Motorcycle Events that you would like to be added to this blog our website send us an email to biker_space@yahoo.com.  You can also twitter us @ www.twitter.com/bikerspace1 or facebook us @ www.facebook.com/bikerspace1.

Well with whatever you end up doing do it on two wheels and remember to Ride2 Live Live2Ride be safe.

N2Deep Sistas Evolution Weekend - June 25-27

Friday meet and greet 8pm-12am @ National Past Times Sports Bar -- Gaylord National 201 Waterfront Street National Harbor, MD 20745.  They will be playing Wii, Spades, Bones, have Jello Shooters.

Saturday -- The Pink Charity Ride & Cookout 11am-5pm 13551 Fort Washington Road, Fort Washington, MC 20744 Picnic Area A.  Registration for ride is from 9am-10am

Saturday night -- Deep Luv - Part IV, The Evolution 10pm-2am @ The Knights of Columbus 3611 Stewart Road Forestville, MD 20744

For more information contact:  Storm (301) 919-7781, Juicey (301) 440-1382, Spy C (804) 319-7028

Most Wanted MC Clubhouse Pre-Grand Opening -- June 25 10pm-6am Location:  The Hideout 545 West Ave Rochester, NY

Bikers For Babies Run The Ghetto Coalition Presents 15th Annual Mother Hale House

For the last 15 years the Ghetto Coalition proudly sponsored this charity bike run which donates truck loads of pampers for the needy children of the Mother Hale House organization. So please come [bike or not] and show your support for this great cause.

Saturday June 26, 2010 At Black Boot Saloon 332 Stagg Street, Brooklyn NY 11206 Doors Open at 9am  Breakfast Served from 9am to 10:30am RUN DEPARTS AT 11am SHARP!

Destination:  Mother Hale House 152 West 122nd Street New York, NY 10027

Bring a Donation of Pampers or Baby Wipes NO ALCOHOL BEFORE RUN!
After Party at Black Boot Saloon


Executive Sponsors:  Ghetto Coalition  Ralphie Figueroa  P.C.

Hair Elegance Plus Presents:The 3rd Annual Ahman (Quest) Fralin Memorial Scholarship Hair and Fashion

Sunday, June 27, 2010 Location:War Memorial Building, 1 Memorial Drive Trenton, NJ 08628
Doors Open @ 4pm, Dinner Served @ 5pm & Show Starts @ 6pm  Cost per ticket:$ 45.00   Contact:  Mayhem (267) 401-3299 or Jaycee (302) 293-8339

For all your travel needs for those out of town trips.


For all your motorcycle needs check out the Motorcycle SuperStore.

Norton’s Rocketship, by Greg Williams

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Greg Williams is a professional writer, living in Calgary, Alberta.

His main area of interest is automotive and motorcycle journalism. A weekly column appears in the Calgary Herald’s Driving.ca section. The column is titled ‘On the Road’, see www.calgaryherald.com and click on Driving.ca under Weekly Sections. Monthly columns, titled ‘Western Perspectives’, run in Inside Motorcycles — a Canadian publication. He is also the book review editor for Inside Motorcycles. Feature articles run monthly in American Iron Magazine, the No. 1 motorcycle magazine on the newsstands, and every three months in the Antique Motorcycle, the publication of the Antique Motorcycle Club of America. He was recognized with the 1997 MAX Award for Motorcycle Journalism — awarded for an article published in the Oct. 1996 issue of the U.K. based magazine The Classic Motor Cycle regarding British motorcycle legend Bernie Nicholson. He was also recognized with the Castrol Chinthe Award for Automotive Journalism in 2003 and the Julie Wilkinson Motorsports Award for Excellence in Journalism in 2009. An avid enthusiast of vintage British motorcycles, he completely restored a 1946 Velocette MAC 350 c.c. single-cylinder machine in late 2003 and early 2004. He also own a complete, original and unrestored 1939 Triumph Speed Twin. The Triumph belonged to Bernie Nicholson, and still wears the patina obtained in the years Bernie owned the machine.

He is a professional member of the Professional Writer’s Association of Canada, a professional member of the Automobile Journalist’s Association of Canada, and a member in good standing of the Canadian Vintage Motorcycle Group, The Antique Motorcycle Club of America and the Velocette Owner’s Club of North America.

Norton’s Rocketship, by Greg Williams

The slogans ‘The Unapproachable Norton’ and ‘The World’s Best Road Holder’ defined one of the most fabled British motorcycle builders. Founded in 1898 by James Lansdowne Norton, or Pa, as he was commonly known, Norton brought to the motorcycling masses several technological advancements. Not the least of these developments was the featherbed frame as designed by the McCandless brothers.


Since the early 1940s the brothers had been working on advanced frame designs, labouring at improving the handling of their own motorcycle – a Triumph. But the McCandless brothers came to the attention of Norton and they were persuaded to design a frame for the Birmingham, England motorcycle company. The featherbed was the result – an all welded duplex tube frame with swingarm rear suspension. The design of the frame was such that the centre of gravity was lowered, and the fuel tank placed further back from the steering head to help centralize weight.


Their featherbed motorcycle chassis, introduced to Norton in 1949 and used in the 1950 Isle of Man TT races, revolutionized how Norton motorcycles handled. There are a couple of stories about how the name featherbed was coined. The most popular is that in 1950, when Norton racer Harold Daniell first rode a 500cc single-cylinder equipped McCandless frame he was so impressed with the handling that he equated it to “riding on a featherbed.” The name stuck.


In 1951 Norton’s Model 7 500cc twin-cylinder engine slid into the featherbed frame, and that was the Model 88 Dominator. Over the years Norton used the featherbed frame for many of its motorcycles, including its more pedestrian 350cc and 500cc single-cylinder machines. It was the twin-cylinder Dominator Model 99 that grew to 600cc in 1956, and to 650cc in 1961 with the 650SS. On that bike, he frame top rails were pinched together, decreasing the width of the frame to better accommodate a rider’s knees... Read more



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American Classic Racing

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ACR is an organization dedicated to the sport of vintage motocross and hare scramble off road racing. ACR conducts AMA sanctioned amateur racing events in the North Eastern region of the United States. Click here for more club information.




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About vintage motorcycles

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via : www.collectorsweekly.com

Motorcycles have figured prominently in movies, music, wars, recreation, and just about every aspect of 20th century life. Classic and vintage motorcycles have become highly collectible, especially among baby boomers.

1975 MV Agusta 750 America

The first motorcycles were produced in the late ...19th century, on both sides of the Atlantic. Some of the earliest efforts were simply small motors attached to a bicycle. In the 20th Century, hundreds of makers produced motorcycles of all varieties, including Indian, Harley Davidson, Ducati, Crocker, BMW, Triumph, Honda and more.

RARE 1931 TT REP NORTON

Two American companies, Indian and Harley Davidson, dominated the market in the U.S. until the waves of British and Japanese imports in the 1950s and 1960s respectively. While Indian ultimately failed, Harley Davidson made a comeback in the 1980s, and its classic 'hogs' are now a favorite of riders and collectors.

1967 Triumph Bonneville T120R Bobber

and many, many more ...




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The Kestrel

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A few days ago, Amaryllis Knight from Falcon Motorcycle send me this video of Ian Barry riding the Kestrel in the desert. Its a real cool video so take time to look at it and enjoy. Frank



Second of Falcon's Concept Ten, a series of custom motorcycles designed around the engines of iconic pre- and post-War British motorcycles - The Kestrel is the engine from a 1970 Triumph Bonneville, which Falcon cut in half and completely re-engineered.

With the exception of a few critical pieces (crankcases, gearbox, and 10 inches of the original Triumph headstock), everything -- including the frame, girder front forks, gas and oil tanks, exhausts, handlebars, levers, even the cylinders -- was fabricated in-house from blocks, sheets and rods of steel, brass and aluminum.

Directed: Matt Taylor & Amaryllis Knight

Edited: Matt Taylor

Song: Torment of the Metals / Black Math Horseman

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Sturgis - 22rd Rat's Hole Bike Show Moves to Buffalo Chip

It’s time for Sturgis and the 22nd Annual Rat's Hole Custom Bike Show.
 

"The Buffalo Chip is the new home of the Rat’s Hole for the next 6 years," said Ted Smith, owner and producer of the world famous bike show. "This will be the largest show in Sturgis and the Best of Show will receive his award on the main stage before Ozzy comes on stage in front of thousands of cheering fans."

Fans from all over the world come out to share good times with Ted & Pam Smith and the Rat's Hole Gang.

"We will also have a Rat’s Hole Bar and you can pre buy a collector mug at 386.454.3496 and receive half price beer all week long at the Buffalo Chip," said Ted.

You can also get your Sturgis Mugs at the Rat's Hole eBAY Store.

The Rat's Hole Bar will be the only place serving draft beer. the mugs are double-insulated and hold draft beer equal to 3 cans... perfect to avoid consession lines at concerts. The mug will be picked up at the Rat's Hole Bar at Buffalo Chip and comes with the first "fill up."

To pre-register a bike in one of 20 Classes, go to ratshole.com.

Ozzy will cap off this year's music at The Buffalo Chip! 

Immediately after the World Famous Rat's Hole Custom Bike Show, Ozzy Osbourne will take the stage to  cap off this year's Biker Music Festival at the Legendary Buffalo Chip.

Ozzy Osbourne, the hipster of dark thoughts and dark music was lead vocalist for the British heavy metal band, Black Sabbath in the '70's before becoming a multi-platinum solo artist.

"The Buffalo Chip is offering more activities, more exhibits and shows than ever before," said Ted, who agreed to bring his big show to the Chip as soon as a large enough paved staging area became available.

The music lineup includes ZZ Top, Kid Rock, Motley Crue, The Doobie Brothers and The Scorpions.

You will also be able to see Michael Lichter’s 10th Annual Motorcycles as Art exhibit, entitled "Eternal Combustion  - 30 in the Wind" that explores the explosion of interest and passion for custom motorcycles. The exhibit features the work of 30 custom builders.

To check out the music lineup and find special deals on camping  for Sturgis Bike Week 2010, visit the buffaochip.com.

What is the best motorcycle manufacture? What is the best bike?

I'm gonna be starting something in the infamous words of Micheal Jackson, so men let the testosterone's rip and if any ladies want to join in the conversation you are more than welcome.

What really is the difference in manufactures of motorcycles?  When I go my first motorcycle it was a 99 Katana made by Suzuki that a brought from a club member.  Now when I wen to upgrade to the 1000 I naturally went for the Suzuki not that I new the difference in manufactures.

Now when I ask this question to the guys in my clubs the conversation when haywire this one saying Suzuki is the best, no Kawasaki is the best, no Honda, no Yamaha is the best , Ducati, Buell, Harley and of course let's go outside and race and then we will see then.  I just love being around men cause you guys are so funny when it comes to conversation like this.

So what is your opinion and why did you pick that manufacture and compare your choice to the others.  Keep it funky and let's have fun with this blog post.

I look forward to the hopefully many, diverse and interesting comments.

Expedia 5 Day Coupon: Save $50 off a $500+ vacation package of flight & 3+ hotel nights! Use Code ExpediaAff50 at checkout. Ends 6/25/10.

Lost Australian Speedways

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Australia has abounded in speedway tracks, many of which have gone forever, buried under suburban development or just abandoned.

Here's three to start the ball rolling:

Wattle Grove Speedway, Western Australia, 1968.

Forrestfield Speedway, 1968.

Claremont Speedway, 1968.

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2010 Ride To Work Day, Monday

Motorcycle Commuters Unite! Monday is "Ride To Work Day," which is celebrated every year on the 3rd Monday in June.

On Ride to Work Day, there are an estimated 150,000 additional Ride to Work Day commuting motorcycles and 150,000 less commuting car, light truck and SUV’s. This results in an estimated savings of 60,000 gallons of gasoline on Ride To Work Day -- annually this would reduce USA gasoline consumption by 15 million gallons.


NUMBER OF MOTORCYCLES COMMUTING
If you ride your bike to work on Monday, you will be joining 129,141,982 commuters in this country (USA, 2003,) who ride motorcycles to work regularly, according to the US Census Bureau -- 11% of all commuters.

More than 6.5 million motorcycles are registered in the USA and 4.3% of them are used as primary transportation, year-round, according to the Motorcycle Industry Council. Totally, almost 15% of all registered bikes are used as primary transportation to work on at least a seasonal basis -- That's a total 932,542 seasonal and year-round motorcycle commuters.

NUMBER OF MOTORCYCLES ON THE ROAD
The most current data from the US Department of Transportation (2003) reported 5.4 million motorcycles in regular use, each traveling an average 1,800 miles per year / 9,539,000,000 total annual miles.

TRAFFIC CONGESTION
The average roadway delay per person in 2001 was 26 hours per year and in 2003 that number had risen to 47 hours per year, an increase of 81%. The average commute time one way is 25 minutes - according to the Texas Transportation Institute.


JOURNEY TIMES
The average United States driver travels 29 miles per day, on average 55 minutes per day - according to the US Department of Transportation, Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

Tests comparing car and motorcycle performance on real journeys suggest that traveling by motorcycle can shorten journey times by as much as 33 minutes of every hour for town centre and city travel, and 20 minutes of every hour for travel through a mixture of built-up and non built-up areas. These are facts that are measured by the Motorcycle Industry Association (UK.)

POTENTIAL AGGREGATE BENEFIT
Motorcycles cover 1-2% of the total distance traveled by road, and cars cover 86%. If 2% of car commuters switched to motorcycles or scooters, the current level of motorcycle utility use would effectively double. Motorcycle Industry Association (UK)

This would also result in an annual household savings of more than $7,000 per year, per vehicle when comparing the costs of motorcycle transportation and auto transportation -- $3,665 for vehicle purchases, $1,235 for gas and oil and $2,471 for insurance and misc. US Department of Labor Statistics, 2002 Consumer Expenditure Survey.

PARKING SPACES
3 - 5 motorcycles fit per automobile parking space. RideToWork.Org/