Chris Brown's 1978 Suzuki GS750 Cafe

hris Brown may be the perfect example of where the motorcycle culture may be heading. Yes, c we will talk about a killer bike, but guess what? This bike was actually not built by a bike builder, or was it? Let’s see... Chris and Brain Bucket

Specialty Paint Shop are based in Newburgh, NY. I actually first met Chris through my buddy Evan Favaro of Speakeasy Motors. I needed to have my Memphis Shade fairing painted, and after seeing the paintwork on Chris’s Suzuki GS, 750 at the New York IMS show, I knew I couldn’t go wrong.

As for Chris, let’s just say he will paint anything! Known for his killer paint skills that can be seen on many bikes, including some work that has rolled out of Speakeasy, Chris has been slinging paint for over 15 years. At any given time, you can walk into the shop and find anything from a motorcycle to a Rat Rod and even a bar in need of a finished topcoat. A BOCES alumni, Brown worked his way through the ranks of BMW, it

Article And Photos By: Msrk Velzquez

was only a matter of time until Chris took his skills and ventured off on his own.

So why a Suzuki? Not that’s there is anything wrong with these rides. As a matter of fact, these were the track leaders back in the late ’70s. Most of his buddies were sporting CB 750’s, Chris being Chris, wanted to stand out. By the luck of Craigslist, Chris happened to run into a 1978 Suzuki GS 750 being sold by its original owner in its very stock and very well maintained condition. The owner was trying to convert the point system to electronic, and he thought he killed the coil and could never get the bike to run again. With that said, he surrendered the bike to Chris for $500.

Knowing that he had a roadworthy Sportster, Chris took in the bike and figured it would be a great winter project. Brown began to research the coil issue and dropped in a new Dyna Tech. Believe it or not, after adjusting the timing it only took a couple of kicks, and the bike was purring like new! Nothing more was needed for this bike to roll, except, of course, for taking off the very stock extra large windshield.

With the bike now running, what else would you do but tear it down? With no real direction in mind, Chris began to chop, weld, and paint. I guess dismantling a bike to the frame is the only way to go. With the bike in pieces, the rebuild began. Putting all his skills to work, tricks he learned from buddies, and just being around bikes since he was eight years old, the process started. With only the frame, a killer clean black with silver metal flake paint was added. The tail section was extended and re-

fabricated. All the rear electronics were hidden in the tail or frame. The rear lights are hidden behind a resin inlay and can only be seen when the bike is on. Foot controls were taken from an ’04 GSXR and welded to the rear passenger brackets, which were moved to the front. Bars from Dime City Cycles were added. A custom handmade weathered leather seat was crafted, and 35mm Kayaba forks top off the design.

Now the paint, I have seen bikes done by some of the best, so why would I be surprised that this would rival the best of the best. When you walk up to this bike, the mirror reflection is beyond perfect. The black

Owner: Chris Brown City/State: Clintondale, Ny Fab. By: Chris Brown Year: 1978 Model: Suzuki GS750 Value: Lost Count Time: 1 Year

Engine Year: 1978 Model: GS750 Builder: Chris Brown Ignition: Dyna Tech Displacement: 748cc/45.6 Cu In Pistons: Stock Heads: Stock Carb: Mikuni Vm26ss Cam: Stock Air Cleaner: K&N Exhaust: Vance & Hines Primary: Transmission Year: 1978 Make: Suzuki Shifting: Aint Easy Frame: Year: 1978 Make: Suzuki Rake: Stretch: Forks: 35mm Kayaba Type: Builder: Extension: Triple Trees: Wheels, Tires, Brakes Front Wheel: Gold Mag Size: 19” Front Tire: Bridgestone Battle Axe Front Brake: Single Piston Rear Wheel: Gold Mag Size: 18” Rear Tire: Bridgestone Battle Axe Rear Brake: Paint Painter: Chris Brown/Brain Bucket Paint Shop Color: Black And Silver Metal Flake Type: Hok, Tropical Glitz, Tamco Graphics: Thumb Print, Cross Hatch, Lace Molding: Chroming: Accessories Bars: Dime City Cycles Risers: Hand controls: Fuel Tanks: Stock Front Fender: Cut Up Stock Rear Fender: Custom Fiberglass Tail Seat: Custom Weathered Leather Foot Controls: 04 GSXR Mirror: EBay Special Oil Tank: Headlight: Daymaker Taillight: Hidden Resin Inlay Speedo: DCC Mini speedo Photographer: Mark Velasquez theme layered with graphics of a thumbprint – crosshatch lace gives you the impression of a mix of carbon fiber meets layered ice. I was speechless by the finish.

In the end, what was once a haymaker in her day was given a new lease on life. This is a daily trouble-free rider. Nothing like a stock-built engine! Chris puts many miles on this bike and has told me it will never be for sale.

66 April - May ‘21 - CYCLE SOURCE MAGAZINE

April - May ‘21 - CYCLE SOURCE MAGAZINE 67

Hey, There are a couple of jewels in this report. One will save the planet and the other makes internal combustion engines kings once more. I’m not jiving. I’m not pulling your leg. This is a dream come true and it’s true, factual and scientifically proven. Hang On!

Vance & Hines Announces Sponsorship Program for 2021 AFT Series Valued at Over $70,000 - Santa Fe Springs CA - Vance & Hines, one of the nation’s premier performance motorcycle accessory manufacturers, announced a full slate of contingency sponsorship payouts for the 2021 American Flat Track (AFT) racing season.

The program includes payouts for the top five riders in each class for every event and a $5,000 bonus for each class champion. In total, the company is offering riders $73,650 in 2021. “Our company was born on a racetrack, so we know how hard it can be to fund a racing program. We’re happy to continue to partner with AFT to support all levels of riders in this great American racing series” said President of Vance & Hines Mike Kennedy.

Vance & Hines produces the XG750R motorcycle for Harley-Davidson, which competes in the AFT Production Twins class. Race teams purchase the bikes directly through the Vance & Hines Racing Development Center in Brownsburg, IN. The company’s 2021 AFT contingency sponsorship provides cash awards to the first through fifth finishers in AFT SuperTwins, AFT Production Twins and AFT Singles at each of the 17 races on the schedule. The payouts range from $500 for first place to $50 for fifth place, with $1150 available per class at each event. At the end of the season, Vance & Hines will offer a $5000 bonus to the number one finisher in each class.

To qualify for the contingency payments, riders must run an eligible Vance & Hines exhaust system, a Vance & Hines decal on their race bike

and have a Vance & Hines patch on their racing leathers.

Owner Of Famous Wheels Through Time Museum Passes - Dale Walksler has been fighting cancer for awhile, and now he’s gone. The guy was one of the brightest, mechanical masterminds I ever met. He helped me and the 5-Ball racing team with several projects for Bonneville. I hope his son, Matt, will follow in his footsteps and keep the magnificent museum going. -Bandit

S&S Cycle To Support Royal Enfield Build Train Race Programs - S&S Cycle will provide parts and support to BTR grassroots programs. Milwaukee, Wis - - Royal Enfield announced today its continued technical partnership with S&S Cycle into 2021, collaborating on projects including the BUILD TRAIN RACE (BTR) road racing and flat track programs.

Royal Enfield and S&S Cycle established a relationship in developing the FT411 and Royal Enfield’s American Flat Track program in recent years. S&S Cycle also manufactures multiple aftermarket parts and accessories for Royal Enfield motorcycles. This year, S&S Cycle will create parts to assist with the BTR road racing program, including exhausts, footpegs and triple clamps, and continued support of the BTR flat track program. S&S Cycle will also help to develop a Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 road racing package and consult on future racing opportunities in the Americas. “S&S Cycle and Royal Enfield continue to grow our relationship through our racing programs,” said Breeann Poland, Marketing Lead for the Americas and Global Brand Manager for the Continental GT platform. “S&S Cycle is a renowned manufacturer in the performance aftermarket industry and its teams have supported our BTR flat track over the last year. Royal Enfield is excited to partner with S&S Cycle again for the road race iteration of the program, leveraging the brand’s capabilities to design, develop and manufacture some of the best performance parts in the industry.”

S&S Cycle is based in Viola, Wis, just a few hours drive from the Royal Enfield North America headquarters. Establishing itself as one of the premier V-Twin

aftermarket parts manufacturers, S&S Cycle has expanded into other markets, including developing a wide range of performance parts for the Royal Enfield Twins model lineup.

“Royal Enfield is a great partner for S&S Cycle and allows us to reach a new audience of riders,” said Paul Langley, president of S&S Cycle. “The programs that Royal Enfield has developed have not only provided female motorcyclists the opportunity to get involved in racing but afforded us the chance to develop parts and accessories for the Royal Enfield Twins platform. Royal Enfield is one the global leaders in motorcycle production and getting access to the brand helps S&S Cycle as we look to expand our business.”

After the successful debut of the flat track BUILD TRAIN RACE program, Royal Enfield looks to road racing as the program continues to evolve. Seven female motorcyclists were recently announced to build, train and race with road racing prepared Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 motorcycles.

To follow along with the BTR program, visit BuildTrainRace. com and to see S&S Cycle’s line of Royal Enfield parts, visit SSCycle.com. Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 125 dealers in North America, including the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. RENA currently offers the Himalayan and the all-new 650 Twins: INT 650 and Continental GT 650 motorcycles along with a range of genuine motorcycle accessories and apparel.

Triumph Motorcycles America Partners With Motorcycle Safety Foundation To Offer Free Basic Ecourse To New Riders - (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Central to the values of Triumph Motorcycles is a passion for riding. To share this passion Triumph Motorcycles America has partnered with the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) to make the MSF Basic eCourse available free of charge to prospective new riders, or former riders interested in riding again.

The 3-hour eCourse, valued at $20, is a great introduction to riding. It is also a prerequisite for the hands-on MSF Basic RiderCourse, which in most states will make student eligible to obtain a motorcycle endorsement upon completion.

“Triumph Motorcycles has always been ‘For The Ride’, so this is a very fitting partnership to help share that passion. Now more than ever, people are looking for new forms of recreation, so I couldn’t think of a better time to help them discover the joy of riding.” Rod Lopusnak – General Manager, Triumph Motorcycles America.

To facilitate the offer, Triumph has launched the website TriumphRider. com, where prospective riders may complete a form to be emailed a unique promo code, which can be applied when they register on the MSF website to redeem the Free Basic eCourse, compliments of Triumph.

Americade Moving To September 2021 - The 38th annual Americade Motorcycle Touring Rally is moving from

early June to the week of September 21st-25th according to Christian Dutcher, Americade’s director. The additional three months of time should provide more confidence that the event will happen for Americade’s motorcycle industry partners, Expo vendors, attendees, and Lake George businesses. “We want to make 100% sure that a 2021 Americade will happen, but we’re not confident an event of this size will be permissible in June,” said Dutcher. “But, moving it to September gives us a very high likelihood of it happening. And, September is also a perfect time of year for riding, with mild temperatures, no rain, and foliage season beginning. It should be beautiful.” Americade’s customers are extremely motivated for the event to return, and the motorcycle industry is looking forward to an Americade 2021 regardless of the date. However, finding an alternate date to Americade 2021 is challenging due to the need for multiple key venues to be available, as well as the need to not overlap another national motorcycle event. It turns out, the September dates are the only dates that would allow for an Americade 2021. “We’re very lucky to have found a 2021 date that works for the community and for the motorcycle industry,” said Dutcher. “I feared we may have to cancel until Americade 2022, but miraculously we are able to slide it into September.” A June Americade is viewed by local businesses as ushering in the summer season in Lake George; this year the event will be at the tail end offering a new season for the thousands of attendees to explore the area. A September date will allow participants to see the beauty of the Adirondacks at the peak of fall foliage, and not overlap with annual family vacations that dominate Lake George from late June through Labor Day, a concern expressed by many local businesses after last year’s rally was postponed to July before ultimately being canceled.

Indian Motorcycle Celebrates 100 Years Of Chief With Completely Reimagined Indian Chief Lineup - Combining Lean & Mean Minimalism with Modern Technology, Three New Chief Models Pay Homage to the Past, While Embracing the Future. In 1921 Indian Motorcycle unveiled the iconic Indian Chief, one of the most historic and influential motorcycles of all time. Now, in celebration of 100 years, America’s First Motorcycle Company is unleashing three new, totally reimagined Indian Chief models for its new lineup. Combining iconic, American V-twin style with modern performance and technology, Indian Motorcycle designed the new Chief with a simplistic and mechanical aesthetic that pays homage to the glory days of American motorcycling. All based on a timeless, simplistic steel-tube frame and powered by Indian Motorcycle’s powerful Thunderstroke motor, the new Indian Chief Dark Horse, Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse and Indian Super Chief Limited offer three unique takes on the classic American V-twin, each appealing to a slightly different rider.

The new Chief provides a strippeddown riding experience where power,

minimalism and attitude lead the way. It reaches back to the glory days of American V-twins when hitting the road to nowhere, with good friends and only the essentials, was the stuff of legends. Then there’s the new Chief Bobber Dark Horse. With bulky tires wrapped around spoke wheels, a muscledup front end and a solo bobber seat, the Chief Bobber Dark Horse pays stylistic homage to the classic postwar era V-twins, bobbed and chopped by military veterans and blue-collar rebels, intent on breaking the mould. And finally, Indian Motorcycle offers the Super Chief, Limited with saddlebags and a windshield, it offers a bit more versatility and begs riders for longer miles and even bolder escapes.

“The Indian Chief is a truly iconic motorcycle and what better way to celebrate its 100th birthday than unleashing an entirely new Indian Chief lineup,” said Mike Dougherty, President of Motorcycles. “These bikes capture the mechanical simplicity and attitude of classic American V-twins, yet bring it all forward with modern sophistication and features. We could not be more thrilled to bring this new platform into our lineup.”

The new Indian Chief lineup marks the intersection of simplicity and power. Mechanical and simple, Chief models are based on a classic steel welded tube frame. The lineup features a 15.1-litre fuel tank, bobbed rear fender, dual outboard preload-adjustable rear shocks, dual exhaust, LED lighting, keyless ignition, and Pirelli Night Dragon tires. Along with cruise control, Chief riders can adjust throttle response by selecting one of three ride modes: sport, standard or tour.

Featuring a short wheelbase of 1626 mm, a low seat height of 662 mm and a wet weight as low as 304 kg, the Indian Chief lineup inspires confidence and is approachable for any rider. The Chief’s conventional 46mm front forks with 132 mm of travel, 28.5-degree lean angle, and comfortable ergonomics, create a capable machine for even the most technical of ride routes.

“We wanted to capture a timeless look that never goes out of style, and looks beautiful whether naked or fully dressed,” said Ola Stenegard, Director, Industrial Design for Indian Motorcycle. “We also wanted to keep it simple enough to allow riders’ imaginations to take flight with personalization options and possibilities. Ultimately, this is a bike that evokes emotion with simple mechanical styling and raw American muscle. It’s a pure riding machine.”

The Indian Chief trim levels are detailed as follows: Chief Dark Horse, Chief Bobber Dark Horse, Super Chief Limited Powering all premium Chief models is Indian Motorcycle’s Thunderstroke 116 (1890cc) engine with 162 Nm of torque. ABS is standard, while premium finishes set these bikes apart and further showcase the craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each Chief and Chief Bobber Dark Horse model packs further attitude with premium gloss black finishes, while the Super Chief Limited touts premium chrome finishes. Additionally, each model delivers a premium experience with its industry-first, 101 mm round

RIDE COMMAND system. Riders can operate the RIDE COMMAND system through grip controls or via the digital IPS touchscreen display. Riders can cycle through multiple interfaces, including two different gauge configurations, bike and ride information, and turn-by-turn navigation. If using a wireless helmet communicator, riders can control their music within the RIDE COMMAND system once their phone is paired via Bluetooth or USB. Riders can also access phone information, including recent calls, contacts, number pad and text message history. When connected, incoming calls will appear and can be accepted or declined directly through the RIDE COMMAND system. - Harley-Davidson Celebrates A New Year with 80 Prizes for the Rides Ahead

MILWAUKEE (February 8, 2021) – Harley-Davidson’s mission brings people together and helps riders experience freedom for the soul. Harley-Davidson is celebrating its mission with the “Get Out and Ride” sweepstakes. There are 80 prizes to win in honor of the 80th Anniversary of Daytona Bike Week, and one custom grand prize motorcycle to celebrate the start of a new year of riding.

“Following Harley-Davidson’s global celebration of riding at the virtual H-D 21 event, we’re excited to get riders rolling into a great year ahead,” said VP Marketing Theo Keetell. “The ‘Get Out and Ride’ Sweepstakes is HarleyDavidson’s invitation to kick off the riding season and rediscover the road.”

From February 8 to April 16, HarleyDavidson is giving riders reason to celebrate with a sweepstakes that everyone in the U.S. can participate in. Through riding-related activities and visiting your local Harley-

Davidson® dealer, participants earn entries for a chance to win prizes celebrating the community and spirit of two wheels. This includes the grand prize custom 2021 Harley-Davidson® Road

Glide® motorcycle and weekly drawings for 80 additional prizes.

“Get Out and Ride” Sweepstakes

Riders can earn entries by participating in the following: · Enter the “Get Out and Ride”

Sweepstakes · Come back for instant win prizes throughout the campaign · Visit your local participating

Harley-Davidson dealership · Demo Harley-Davidson motorcycles

The “Get Out and Ride” Sweepstakes is a perfect opportunity to demo, try-on, and experience all the new HarleyDavidson products for 2021 including motorcycles, parts and accessories, and general merchandise.

For more information visit: https:// harleydavidson.promo.eprize.com/ getoutandride.

Hang on! If you need a news fix more often slither over to Bikernet.com for a weekly fix. In the meantime, fight for freedom and celebrate riding free. -Bandit

S&S Cycle - Air Stinger High Flow Air Cleaner Kit S&S Cycle’s Stealth air cleaner kits have been a solid performance addition for the v-twin market since their launch in 2012. The Air Stinger takes the existing high flow Stealth air cleaner and replaces the air smoothing stinger with a similarly shaped filter element. More filter surface equals a 55% gain over a factory filter in an M8. The Air Stinger is also available with the classic Mini Teardrop cover in black or chrome (hard to go wrong with the S&S Teardrop!) or as a replacement cover plate to update your existing Stealth system. The S&S Air Stinger filter element is washable just like the Stealth filters and designed to last for years. Applications for most Harley® Models from 2001 to current. Check them out https//www.sscycle.com/ air-stinger

Twin Power Brand New Nano Gel Technology Batteries Twin Power’s new Shocker Gel Battery lineup launches nanogel technology, innovative design and an affordable price to the motorcycle replacement battery market. Extra thick plates and sealed packaging for the battery cells allows the units to be leak and maintenance free, and vibration resistant. Riders love the increased cycle life, wide operating temperature range and superior cold weather performance. Because of their design, gel cell batteries can be mounted at any angle, which is a great benefit for custom bike designers and builders. Unique flush-mount battery terminals provide consistent amperage transfer and eliminate the arcing and corrosion that can affect a traditional-style battery terminal. Fitments are available in all popular 14, 20 and 32 Amp configurations. MSRP $112.15 - $185.95.

DRAG SPECIALTIES SEATS SOLO SEATS FOR INDIAN® This solo seat is made narrow up front for better leg clearance to ground contact -- moves the rider back 1” and 1/2” lower compared to factory seat. Features 3” tall back for support. The seat base is made of 3/16” thermoformed ABS for a perfect fit and comes with a carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers to protect the bike’s paint. Molded polyurethane foam and a high-quality automotive-grade vinyl cover provide comfort and styling. The seat is available in Smooth, Linear stitch with black thread or Double-Diamond stitch with black, silver or red thread and measures 231/2” L overall. All mounting hardware is included. USA Made, MSRP $299.95 - $339.95. https://seats.dragspecialties.com/ products/?productId=606744 SENA 3S PLUS Boom and 3S PLUS Sena is starting the new year off with an update to one of our original headsets, the 3S. The 3S PLUS Boom and 3S PLUS Universal headsets for motorcycle and scooter helmets. The 3S PLUS Boom features a sleek design with buttons on the microphone for total integration for jet and open-face helmets. The 3S PLUS Universal is designed with an external control that attaches to the helmet’s shell, which can be installed on both full and open face-helmets. Both devices feature 2-way Bluetooth intercom and smartphone connectivity for music, GPS, phone calls, and more. Both the 3S PLUS Boom and 3S PLUS Universal are now available for $99. BuySena.com

DRAG SPECIALTIES CLUTCH PLATE KITS Designed to perform under extreme heat conditions. They allow smooth, precise shifting and can be run wet or dry. The Aramid fiber friction kit includes 10 plates that have higherdensity compound for increased durability. The steel 9-plate kit is manufactured under strict quality-control standards. Kits are sold individually. Fit 18-20 M-Eight, 13-17 Twin Cam CVO/SE and 14-20 HD FL Trike models (with slipper/assist clutch). Made in the U.S.A. The suggested retail is $43.95 (steel kit) - $111.95 (friction kit).https://www.dragspecialties.com/ search;q=11313614;r=eJyrVkrLzClJLSpWsoq OrQUAJusFKA%3D%3D DRAG SPECIALTIES REPLACEMENT AIR FILTER FOR V-ROD This high-quality paper filter meets or exceeds OEM specifications. For use with OEM stock air filter housings on 02-17 V-Rod models. Replaces OEM #29437-01A. The suggested retail is $42.95. https://www.dragspecialties. com/search;q=10114222;r=eJyrVkrL zClJLSpWsoqOrQUAJusFKA%3D% 3D

DRAG SPECIALTIES FORWARD CONTROL EXTENSION KITS Aluminum forward control extension kit extends OEM forward controls 3”. To match the bike’s style, the extension kit is available in either chrome or black. All necessary hardware is included in each kit. Fits 18-20 FLSB, FXBR/FXBRS, FXFB/ FXFBS models. An extended length custom rear brake line is required when installing. The suggested retail is $289.95. https://www.dragspecialties. com/search;q=1622-0553;r=eJy rVkrLzClJLSpWsoqOrQUAJusF KA%3D%3D DS3 PREMIUM SYNTHETIC 20W-50 MOTORCYCLE OIL All new premium full synthetic oil provides the ultimate in long-lasting protection against engine wear, protects engine from sludge buildup and aids in providing maximum power output; can be used in all three cavities of a Harley-Davidson V-Twin, including engine, transmission and primary. With the selective additive package, this oil yields exceptional viscosity, stability and lasting anti-oxidation qualities that cannot be derived from conventional base oils. Synthetic base oil provides long-lasting protection against engine wear as well as outstanding protection against sludge buildup. Extremely shear stable so the oil will stay consistent even with gear and engine forces. Extreme pressure additives protect gears and other engine parts. Excellent sealing characteristics provide maximum power output. Meets all warranty performance criteria for Harley-Davidson engines and does not void new vehicle warranties. Meets and exceeds API CI-4/SL service rating. Available in quart and gallon bottles. Made in the U.S.A. The suggested retail is $12.95 - $46.95. Cycle Source Magazine Source Stripes Cotton, Pre Shrunk, Printed in The USA https://www.hotleathers.com/products/cycle-source-stripes-logo-ss $18.00

Article By: Tyler Porter Photos Courtesy of : American Motorcycle Association

here we are, New Year, new problems, and new solutions. Most importantly though, a new race season, right? All through this off season I have been saving every email, press releases, text messages, even taking notes after phone calls so that I could put a “silly season” article together. This month’s column will certainly have some facts, but be ready for plenty of rumors and speculation too. Let’s get to work.

The biggest news over the off-season is the split between Harley Davidson and the Vance and Hines race team. While The MoCo isn’t officially backing a “factory team” for 2021, they are lending support to the Latus Motors Racing Team in 2021 and your defending Production Twins champion James Rispoli is moving to the Super Twins class on the XG750R platform. You can’t deny “Hogspoli’s” talent, and imagine that James could be the only XG750R entered in the class in many rounds, so he’s definitely going to be a rider to watch. While Rispoli will remain on the Harley XG750R platform, the “old” factory Vance and Hines Harley Davidson team riders Bryan Smith, Jarod Vanderkooi and Dalton Gauthier are all pursuing other ventures. I haven’t heard much more than a peep out of the Smith camp, other than he rides his Bicycle down in Florida. My guess is that he and Ricky Howerton are cooking up something special, but I feel like this is sort of a make or break period in Bryan’s career. Of course he showed promise on

the XG750R at times, but in the past he’s struggled on the Indian platform. Jarod Vanderkooi however has already been working on his 2021 season, taking delivery of his Roof Systems of Dallas/Ben Evans Racing Indian FTR750’s. I feel like not enough people talk about Jarod, but he has quietly been marching up the rankings in the Super Twins class. Now with the preferred

bike under him, we might see big things from the Ohio native. Dalton Gauthier is another rider, who like Smith, has been pretty quiet about his 2021 plans. I do know Dalton has been doing some off season races on singles equipment, but I would assume, given his talents and skills, he would find a twins ride.

In other factory team news, you may have noticed that the Factory Indian squad has pared down its operations for 2021. The Bash Brothers of flattrack, Briar and Bronson Bauman, no longer comprise the Indian Factory effort for 2021. While your 2020 Super Twins champion Briar will remain on the squad, Bronson will in effect field

a privateer effort for the upcoming season, but will still be saddling up on Indian FTR750’s. The whispers I heard are that Indian was looking to completely shut down a factory effort and go to supporting individual racers instead. While this seems sad to me, it’s a very smart cost

saving move. Why sponsor a team when nearly the whole field is on your bikes already and you win almost every race? From what I’m told, a wrench was thrown in those plans from what I’m told though when Briar repeated his title, which triggered a contract extension clause. I’m certainly glad they are staying in the field, because they command a huge presence and are a welcome addition to the paddock. While Bronson’s efforts for 2021 will be more arduous, he is taking it in stride, using his shop equipment to build his own parts to make his 2021 bike the best that it can be.

I’m not totally sure that I can break this news, but I guess I will anyway. That’s the kind of thing you expect here, right? Dan Bromley and Nick Henderson are banding together to run a private Production Twins effort for 2021. Dan rode the Super Twins class in 2020, with respectable finishes and his high notes playing during the final rounds in Daytona. Moving down to the Production Twins class for 2021 means a new race bike platform, and the formidable duo has chosen the Yamaha MT07 for their operation. The team purchased several assets from the late Babe DeMay Racing program, and I can personally attest there are some really good items the team scooped up that hadn’t quite made it to a race track yet. They have some pretty good motorcycle industry backing as well. It will be interesting to see what the world’s tallest flattracker has in store for the new season. Dan can make it interesting for sure. Remember, he has championship winning experience in the Pro Singles class.

Do you like to cheer on the “little guys”? The under dogs”? Maybe even a multi-time Daytona 200 road racing winner? If so, you’re certainly in luck. Terchila/Berry Racing has been formed for 2021 with a combination of bike owner Jim Terchila and longtime tuner Bob Berry. They are fielding dirt trackerturned road racer-turned dirt tracker Danny Eslick on the Big-A framed Kawasaki EX650 based platform for the season in the production twins class. This team has a cool story, even outside of its free spirited rider. The “A” bike that they are fielding, was actually won in a raffle by Jim Terchila a few seasons ago! That’s right, there putting a raffle bike straight on the race track!

I’ll start to wrap this up with some AFT Singles Riders changing seats. With your AFT Singles Champ Dallas Daniels firmly in place with

the Estenson Racing crew and looking to defend his title for 2021, you have to look a little deeper into the field to see some movement. One that comes to mind is the departure of Chad Cose at Wally Brown Racing. Chad made huge waves for the team, typically being the lone Suzuki in the field. He capped of a strong season with a win in Daytona during the finale weekend, but from what I can tell right now, he will be putting all of his focus into the Production Twins class for 2021. Filling the empty seat at WBR is Trent Lowe, the young Indiana native who has been steadily improving each year of his pro career. The bike has proven to be an absolute missile, so I look forward to seeing what level he can progress to during the season.

The private Waters Autobody Racing team, owned by Dave Waters has been entering KTM machines for over 10 years in all levels of the professional ranks. Often having the fastest twins on the track and an impressive roster of past riders, for the 2021 season, the Waters Autobody team is looking to the youth of the sport with 16 year old Aidan Rooseveans and an AFT singles rookie from Canada, Hunter Bauer. Aidan had some flashes of brilliance during his 2020 rookie season campaign, and it will be fun to see if they can take their steel framed KTM’s to the podium this year.

Last but certainly not least, we move away from the youth of the sport a little bit and talk about the shake up in the Honda pits. For the 2021 season Honda has moved its factory support from Richie Morris Racing over to Turner racing. The “old guy” in the AFT Singles pits, Henry Wiles, along with his former teammate at RMR, Cole Zabala, will make the move to Turner Racing Wiles really had a breakthrough year in 2020. They are also adding 2020 Rookie and Springfield Short Track winner Trevor Brunner to the mix. The factory supported Hondas have been absolute rocket ships in the past season, and even though the team is changing hands, so to speak, I don’t see that changing. This team should really be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.

I think that’s enough silly season talk. I’m sure a lot of deals won’t be finalized until the week before the series kicks off, so what I HIGHLY recommend doing is buying tickets now for the first two rounds which are taking place at Volusia County Speedway on March 12th and 13th . For more ticket information, log on to www.americanflattrack.com Let’s go racing!

SPACE, THE FINAL FRONTIER

far more than disconnected, my mind couldn’t be further from thinking about the bike being two hundred miles in the wrong direction from where my family and I now call home. A few months prior, we broke ourselves from the New Jersey Bank of Unified Taxpayers’ shackles and relocated to Southern Pennsylvania, fifteen miles or so miles past the factory in York.

Now we’re here, and here is home. Though slight, the changes are immense and trying to get my bearings leaves me distant. The weather settled its grey cloak about the same time we moved in, and the repetition of the daily grind doesn’t leave much for exploration. An anxiety of some sort tucked its way into my gut, just enough to leave a waiting reminder that something is still missing.

We went from a small eight thousand square foot property with a ninety-year-old tinder box of a garage to four-plus acres and a dangerous amount of storage. We moved the entirety of our belongings into the nine hundred square foot pole barn. We slowly started the migration into the house an hour after closing. Now with an empty garage once again, that anxiety is just a little louder. It’s all a dream. I went from no room to this, and now there’s a vast expanse of polished concrete floor with one lone bike lift waiting. Boxes filled with tools sit taped up on shelves, and the workbench that takes up at least half of the wall space smiles with open arms. The long-ignored De-Rake project has waited long enough to come out of hiding and receive the attention it deserves.

Having the space to do what I want is all I’ve ever wanted. With the hundred forty-year-old house being smaller than the crib in Jersey, the overflow has found its way into the garage as well. But having a couch and a few comforts isn’t making that anxiety go away. It lingers, whispering.

This old farm is home, I knew it the first time I set eyes on it, before it was ours, before it was familiar. In the past, I had interviewed a few builders that have the same situation, and it all makes sense now. I never imagined having a space like this, but I’m reminded of being told of too much storage and the peril that it can lead too and at that time, it puzzled me. At that time, I was neck-deep in old cars sprinkled with motorcycles and their baggage, and the thought of storage was heaven to my ears. But now, it scares the living shit out of me; my potential is mindnumbing when collecting bullshit in all its forms.

Being here for just over a month and a half, I’ve only stepped foot in the barn to show a few friends. Builtin the early1800s and restored ten years ago, it dwarfs the pole barn, two floors, and a loft full of “fill me the f#@k up” space. I just don’t go there because, well, I’ll go there. One day I’ll temporarily stick a fork tube on a shelf, and then without warning, I’m thanking volunteers for helping me reluctantly remove empty boxes of cereal from the

residence the health department condemned. It’s the devil, and he has a fiddle made of gold, but this asshole ain’t plucking them strings today… maybe next week.

A late-night run in the arms of a twentyfour-degree misting rain found me heading west on 30 back home when I was passed by a bike kissing the underside of a hundred. His taillight crystalized and broke apart in the frozen water droplets on my windshield. I admired his can-do attitude and wished him safe travels on his bullet to infamy. The echo of his exhaust snapping past my windshield repeated continuously in my tired brain with determined admiration. I slid sideways up my road twenty minutes later, threw the side door open in the garage, and tossed my keys on the workbench. My breath slowly frosted in front of my eyes as I stared at my motorcycle keys hanging from a hook next to the fridge packed with Yoohoo. There it was, that waiting anxiety, louder thumping inside my throat just above my collar bone. The nest is almost full but still empty. All these uncharted roads weaving through an Amish wasteland, all these possibilities with nothing to carry me through. I need to bring the bike home; it sits safely tucked amongst my buddy’s vintage collection. Home is where the heart is, but a motorcycle carries the soul.

Bare Bones Leather....................110

Battery Outlet.............................113

BikerNet.com..............................110

Bling’s Cycles...............................68

Chop Cult....................................110

Cycle Source Gear.........................4

Cycle Stop USA...........................32

DB Custom Leather.....................46

Dennis Kirk..................................115

Denver’s Choppers.......................51

Drag Specialties.............................9

Drag Specialties Seats..................5

Dutchman....................................113

Faith Forgotten Choppers..........45

Fandango......................................69

Feuling.........................................111

Flat Broke Chops & Rods..........107

Garage Built Podcast...................32

GEICO.............................................3

Hot Leathers...............................109

Kiwi Indian....................................29

Led Sled.......................................63

MC Creations..............................113

Mikuni...........................................55

Motion Pro..................................105

No School Choppers...................97

Pandemonium..............................20

Paughco...................................19,57

Progressive Insurance.................31

Providence Cycle Worx................87

Russ Brown..................................27

S100..............................................49

S&S Cycle...................................116

SpeedKing....................................15

Sporty Parts................................113

Spectro Oils...................................21

Sturgis Live!..................................79

Tech Cycles..................................29

Tropical Tattoo..............................46

Twin Power......................................2

Twisted Choppers........................85

Send Your Gut Buster to: cyclesourcemain@comcast.net

Lulabelle

Ablonde and a redhead have a ranch. They have just lost their bull. The women need to buy another, but only have $500. The redhead tells the blonde, “I will go to the market and see if I can find one for under that amount. If I can, I will send you a telegram.” She goes to the market and finds one for $499. Having only one dollar left, she goes to the telegraph office and finds out that it costs one dollar per word. She is stumped on how to tell the blonde to bring the truck and trailer. Finally, she tells the telegraph operator to send the word “comfortable.” Skeptical, the operator asks, “How will she know to come with the trailer from just that word?” The redhead replies, “She’s a blonde so she reads slow:”Come for ta bull.”

Tex

Aguy took his blonde girlfriend to her first football game. They had great seats right behind their team’s bench. After the game, he asked her how she liked the experience. “Oh, I really liked it,” she replied, “especially the tight pants and all the big muscles, but I just couldn’t understand why they were killing each other over 25 cents.” Dumbfounded, her date asked, “What do you mean?” “Well, they flipped a coin, one team got it, and then for the rest of the game, all they kept screaming was, ‘Get the quarterback! Get the quarterback!’ I’m like, hello? It’s only 25 cents!”

Brady

Aman and woman had been married for 30 years, and in those 30 years, they always left the lights off when having sex. He was embarrassed and scared that he couldn’t please her, so he always used a big dildo on her. All these years she had no clue. One day, she decided to reach over and flip the light switch on and saw that he was using a dildo. She said “I knew it, asshole, explain the dildo!” He said, “Explain the kids!”

Davis

There was a papa mole, a momma mole, and a baby mole. They lived in a hole out in the country near a farmhouse. Papa mole poked his head out of the hole and said, “Mmmm, I smell sausage!” Momma mole poked her head outside the hole and said, “Mmmm, I smell pancakes!” Baby mole tried to stick his head outside but couldn’t because of the two bigger moles. Baby mole said, “The only thing I smell is molasses.”

Mel

Two tall trees, a birch and a beech, are growing in the woods. A small tree begins to grow between them, and the beech says to the birch, “Is that a son of a beech or a son of a birch?” The birch says he cannot tell, but just then a woodpecker lands on the sapling.The birch says, “Woodpecker, you are a tree expert. Can you tell if that is a son of a beech or a son of a birch?” The woodpecker takes a taste of the small tree and replies, “It is neither a son of a beech nor a son of a birch, It is, however, the best piece of ash I have ever poked my pecker into.”

Astatue of a naked woman and a naked man stand in a park at night. Suddenly from out of nowhere, a magical genie arrives and grants the statues each one wish to be fulfilled. Both the female and male statues agree on 15 minutes as a real man and woman in the bushes behind them to “get things done.” The genie gives a knowing grin and grants the wish. The man and woman immediately jump behind the bushes and screaming sounds and laughter can be heard from their activities. 12 minutes later they return to the front of the bush again claiming they are finished. “Well now, that was kinda quick!” the genie says. “You can do it a second time for the remaining 3 minutes if you want,” the genie tells them, winking his eye. Both the female and male look at each other and smile. The man says to the woman, “Okay great, but this time you get to hold the pigeon so I can shit on him!”

Gus

Agirl realized that she had grown hair between her legs. She got worried and asked her mom about that hair. Her mom calmly said, “That part where the hair has grown is called your monkey. Be proud that your monkey has grown hair.” The girl smiled. At dinner, she told her sister, “My monkey has grown hair.” Her sister smiled and said, “That’s nothing; mine is already eating bananas.”

Turtle