www.bikernet.com
THE BLEEDING BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS—for April 10th
Hey,
Slipping into the shop can be sorta like making time for the gym. It’s a meditation of sorts. Okay, so I rewired the King Bike, changed the seat from the classic Danny Grey to a sprung canyon seat.
The safety pin springs included with the seat were bullshit. Maybe an elephant’s ass would have budged them. I ordered two sizes of common sprung seats and went for the longer ones.
With the wiring dialed in, a new 400 amp Lithium battery installed it fired and ran like a champ. I made two brackets to hold the seat to the springs and the chromed springs to the rigid frame. But wait, I still hadn’t bled the front brakes.
I tried everything including consulting with Irish Rich, a master builder. He said more than once, to make sure I listened carefully. “Hit the caliper with a heavy screwdriver handle to dislodge the bubbles.”
So, day before yesterday, I took the system completely apart and started from scratch. The lines were cool and the DOT 5 moving in the right direction. I removed the caliper and split the cases. I dug through my stash of O-rings and discovered two. They might work, and I replaced them.
I held the caliper high and started the bleeding process. Everything flowed in the correct direction, but would I feel tension. Then I did, or was my perception a dream? I installed the caliper, bled with the bleeders. The tension improved. Good god, I felt braking against the disc. Incredible, I succeeded.
Yesterday I started to clear the lift. Today, I will lower the lift and remove the King. Tomorrow we ride.
Let’s hit the news:
The Bikernet News is brought to you by our resilient team: The Redhead, Wayfarer, Danial James, Sturgis Vicky, LA Laura, Palma, Freak Show Kendra.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON LAUNCHES RIDE--New Global Brand Platform Sets Stage For New Era of Harley-Davidson, While Honoring Its Heritage
Harley-Davidson reignites the brand with the global launch of RIDE, a refreshed brand platform that honors more than a century of driving motorcycle culture, designed for the riders of today, and paves a path forward for Harley-Davidson.
More than a word, RIDE is, at its core, the very idea that defines and drives Harley-Davidson. It is an action, a feeling, and a way of life that has been embedded into the brand since its founding in 1903. Harley-Davidson doesn’t have merely owners, rather a community of passionate riders. The very notion of RIDE brings people together, clears the mind, and turns miles into stories, reaffirming that life is better on two wheels.
“I’m thrilled to launch the RIDE platform as a full reset of the brand ahead of our company strategy rollout in May. It celebrates the fun and joy people experience riding the world’s greatest motorcycle, a Harley-Davidson,” said Artie Starrs, President and CEO, Harley-Davidson.
With the launch of RIDE, Harley-Davidson unveils a new visual identity, anchored by the return of the historic Harley-Davidson bar and shield logo; a nod to where it all began and a signal to the role heritage continues to play in shaping the future of Harley-Davidson.
The platform debut comes to life through a video set to the iconic Willie Nelson’s “On the Road Again,” featuring raw, authentic footage of real riders and the joy of the RIDE. The visual spotlights the true spirit of the open road and the culture that exists around it, a community Harley-Davidson originated and continues to champion. The video will air nationally across broadcast and streaming platforms, along with a comprehensive internal and external integrated campaign.
For over a century, Harley-Davidson has defined what it means to ride. RIDE is the next chapter, celebrating every rider, those who have been with us from the beginning and opening the road to anyone ready to join in. More riders. More rides. More freedom. More stories to be told.
Check out the full-length RIDE video here.
NEWS FROM THE TOWN OF THE CHIP– A True Highlife Moto Celebration
CAMP ZEROPart Campground, Part What-The-Heck-Was-That?!
Featuring The KING OF FUN…
And 2x the Events
(More on These Below)
BTW Access to Attend CAMP ZERO Events is FREE
THROTTLE ADDICTION—Meets Wiring Issues
Want your chopper’s wiring to be this clean? It helps when you use our Hardtail kit for Sportsters. The oil tank that comes with our Deluxe Kit is designed to be just large enough for a small profile lithium battery. Add in a hollow backbone for running wires that exits right in the battery box and you’ve got a perfect setup.
Rocking a big twin? Check out our other chopper wiring harnesses:
ANOTHER CLASSIC COMPANY MAKES A COME-BACK–
Corum Watches Founded: By René Bannwart and his uncle Gaston Ries. The brand became known for innovative, bold designs like the Golden Bridge (a baguette movement suspended in a case) and Coin Watches (using real gold coins as cases), as well as the Admiral’s Cup collection.
Prior Ownership: In 2013, it was acquired by the Hong Kong-listed Citychamp Watch & Jewellery Group (formerly China Haidian Holdings), which also owned brands like Eterna. Under foreign ownership, the brand faced challenges, including reduced activity, restructuring, and a lower profile in the market.
The 2025 Management Buyout
On April 30, 2025 (during Corum’s 70th anniversary year), the company announced a management buyout that transferred ownership back to Swiss control.
Led by: Haso Mehmedovic (who started at Corum as a watchmaker in 2011 and rose to International Sales Director). He became CEO and Chairman, backed by a small group of Swiss investors from luxury and finance sectors.
Previous owner: Citychamp exited fully in a collaborative transaction. All assets (including patents, IP, archives, and the La Chaux-de-Fonds manufacture) remained in Switzerland.
This was widely reported as a positive “return to roots” for the brand, aiming to restore its creative independence and heritage focus.
Current Status (as of 2026)
A model from 1986
Corum is actively rebuilding:
Relaunch plans: Focused global relaunch in mid-2026, with a sharper distribution strategy (reduced from over 300 to ~70 points of sale for better quality control).
New Releases: At Watches & Wonders 2026, they presented refreshed collections, including new Admiral models (with in-house calibers, redesigned cases), Golden Bridge Sapphire variants (fully translucent sapphire cases), and heritage revivals like updated Coin Watches.
The official website and brand communications emphasize a “new era” while staying true to its innovative history.
In short, nothing catastrophic “happened” like bankruptcy or closure—Corum endured a period of foreign ownership with some struggles but has now reset under passionate Swiss leadership for a stronger future. The brand continues producing distinctive luxury watches from its historic base. For the latest models or news, check corum-watches.com.
INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE OF THE WEEK–
Collectors open their Golden Book to a blank page, inscribed with a quote by Ernest Hemingway: “Now is no time to think of what you do not have. Think of what you can do with what you have”.
BAD SHIT OF THE WEEK– Understanding EPR Costs, Compliance, and What Comes Next
Extended Producer Responsibility laws are advancing in multiple states, with the potential to create new costs and compliance obligations for manufacturers, distributors, and dealers. In an April 9 MIC Symposium, MIC’s Government Relations team and experts from Redwood Materials will explain what’s changing and what it could mean for the powersports industry.
“EPR is here, but it doesn’t have to be doom and gloom,” said Phillip Lighty, MIC Government Relations Manager. “We still have time to help shape and influence the EPR policies being developed today — we just need to hear from you.”
–MIC
RIGHT TO REPAIR GOOD NEWS—
Hey did you here John Deere settled and will allow access to tools , diagnostics and software.
–Bob KayBiker Pros LP
ALL THE KIDS MEET WITH THE FLYING PISTON–
We’re incredibly grateful for the continued support of the Flying Piston Benefit and the impact they’ve made on All Kids Bike over the years.
Since 2019, Flying Piston Benefit has contributed over $150,000, helping bring the All Kids Bike program to more than 30 schools nationwide. Because of their generosity, thousands of kindergarteners have had the opportunity to learn to ride a bike—gaining confidence, independence, and a skill they’ll carry with them for life.
One of the most special ways they support this mission is through their Tiny Strider Custom Program, which began in 2018. Each year, these one-of-a-kind custom bikes are auctioned during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally—with the silent auction taking place at the Flying Piston Benefit Breakfast. Proceeds directly benefit All Kids Bike, turning passion for riding into meaningful impact for kids.
At the heart of it all is a shared commitment: getting more kids on bikes today to help inspire the next generation of riders. By supporting early learn-to-ride experiences, Flying Piston Benefit is helping build confidence, spark a love of riding, and ultimately support future motorcycle ridership.
Year after year, Flying Piston Benefit brings the riding community together to make a lasting difference—helping kids across the country find their balance, their confidence, and their freedom on two wheels.
To the entire Flying Piston Benefit community—thank you for riding it forward.
Check out Flying Piston Benefit on Instagram
Flying Piston Benefit is stepping up once again—this time to support Kincaid Elementary in Anchorage, AK. For a limited time, they’re matching every donation dollar-for-dollar up to $3,000. Give today and help double the impact for these students!
THE LATEST FROM COMPETITION DISTRIBUTING–
11-30 Head Gaskets VL 1930-1935 Blue Teflon .050″ Thick
Regular price $45.95
Shipping calculated at checkout.
BIKERNET GUN NUT REPORT–Trump Administration Continues to Deliver for Gun Owners with Recent Initiatives
Amid a steady stream of headlines highlighting anti-gun legislative proposals in the states, ongoing litigation battles, and regulatory uncertainty, there is also good news to report on the Second Amendment front, courtesy of the Trump Administration. Recent news from the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and the United States Postal Service (USPS) provide reason for optimism. While the broader landscape of gun rights remains complex and contentious, important shifts at the federal level signal real progress is continuing.
Last week, the USPS announced a proposed rule to modify its regulations to allow certain firearms to be legally shipped through the mail. This legal reassessment is in response to the recent Department of Justice Office of Legal Counsel opinion concluding that the nearly 100-year old federal prohibition on mailing “concealable” firearms is unconstitutional. The proposed rule includes important clarifications and policy changes:
Revisions to Publication 52 specify clear definitions of “mailable firearms” and “nonmailable firearms” consistent with OLC’s opinion. The proposed revisions expand the scope of mailable firearms compared to the existing regulations by allowing lawful handguns to be mailed under the same terms and conditions as lawful rifles and shotguns. These conditions continue to require, among other things, that mailed firearms be unloaded. Additionally, otherwise nonmailable handguns will remain mailable between authorized persons consistent with Section 1715.
The rulemaking process allows for public comments to be submitted until May 4, 2026. While the usual option of submitting comments through the government’s online portal does not apply in this case, emails will be accepted. USPS advises: “If sending comments by email, include the name and address of the commenter and send to PCFederalRegister@usps.gov, with a subject line of ‘Shipping Firearms.’”
Also, in news that our nation’s veterans have long deserved to hear, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), have undertook coordinated action to remove from the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) records of VA beneficiaries who were wrongly reported as prohibited persons solely because they were assigned a fiduciary to assist in management of their benefits.
In February, the VA announced it would end this decades-old practice. NRA-ILA can now report that, according to sources within the government, updates to NICS were made on March 6. Additionally, letters have begun being mailed to the fiduciaries of affected beneficiaries providing formal notice of the steps being taken to end this longstanding injustice.
Those letters note:
Under a directive from the Secretary of Veteran’s Affairs, VA will:
Work with the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) to remove all names previously reported on this basis from NICS.
End all future reporting of fiduciary program participants to NICS.
Update VA policies to reflect this change.
And, finally, to cap off the recent positive momentum, last week, Harmeet Dhillon, assistant attorney general for DOJ’s Civil Rights Division (CRIT), announced a focused effort to hire and train more lawyers specifically for CRIT’s Second Amendment section. A report from The Washington Times stated, “her office’s goal is to have all state regulations that are inconsistent with pro-Second Amendment cases be struck down, settled or withdrawn by the time she leaves her post.” While certainly an ambitious agenda, Dhillon is clearly invested in making progress on this historic undertaking.
It has been just over one year since President Donald Trump issued his Executive Order on Protecting Second Amendment Rights, which launched a federal review of prior regulations and actions that have restricted lawful firearm ownership to ensure constitutional compliance. That audit and reset effort has been paying dividends ever since. DOJ’s commitment to expanding its legal firepower to counter state infringements will only strengthen its ability to continue the campaign against unlawful restrictions on Second Amendment rights.
Ultimately, these latest actions reflect a broader federal willingness to treat the right to keep and bear arms as a core civil liberty demanding affirmative protection through policymaking and the courts. NRA has long underscored the need for and importance of collaborative efforts at all levels, and these recent proactive steps represent the watershed effort by the Trump Administration on behalf of law-abiding gun owners and businesses.
LATEST FROM THE LOWBROW GANG—
Lowbrow has been making chain conversion kits to replace the rear drive belt on Harleys since 2012.
And our latest offering is a kit for 1984-1999 Harley Softails.
Interested in making the change over to a chain, but unsure of how to proceed? No worries!
Watch as Todd installs a chain conversion kit on a 1994-2003 Sportster or check out Rusty Butcher’s install video on an ’04-up Sportster and follow along at home!
The process is straight-forward and pretty much the same across year ranges and different model Harleys.
Check out the reviews below to see what customers think, or…
LIFESTYLE CYCLES DEAL OF THE WEEK—2017 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim for Sale
Black Denim •
Used Motorcycles
The simple construction of the Slim will have you flying by traffic with nothing but a smile on your face!
Stock# 14775
2017 Harley Davidson FLS Softail Slim with only 3,830 miles!
A bike powerful enough to tear through the road, with the style of an old school chooper!
* Harley OEM Denim Black Paintjob
* 103 Cubic Inch Harley Twin Cam Motor
* 6 Speed Harley Transmission
* Vance and Hines Chrome Short Shot Exhaust with Black Heat Shields
* Mustang Solo Seat
* Stock Handlebars
* Rider Floorboards
* Low miles, ready to ride to the next adventure!
* Arlen Ness Big Sucker with Black Cover
Plus license, $85.00 documentation fee, and local sales tax. NO HIDDEN FEES like some dealers. And we have no reconditioning or prep fees. This bike has passed Lifestyle Cycles rigorous 103-point safety/mechanical/structural inspection.This motorcycle has not been refurbished and does not come with any warranty expressed or implied! EXTENDED WARRANTIES are available!
Fill out an online application today. We have EZ FINANCING
Lifestyle Cycles is located at 1510 State College Blvd,Anaheim,CA,92806. Open 7 days a week.
NOT LOCAL? WE HAVE SHIPPING AVAILABLE! Call today (714) 490-0155.
Huge selection of Street Glides, Road Glides, Road Kings, Ultras, Sportsters, Softails, Dynas, and much more!
We are California’s pre-owned Harley Mega-Store with over 200 Pre-Owned Harley-Davidsons in stock! To view our current inventory,
Please visit www.LifestyleCycles.com or www.facebook.com/LifestyleCyclesUsedHarleys/
AMSOIL NEWS—Temporary Surcharge Effective April 8
Effective April 8, we are implementing a temporary surcharge across our product portfolio. The surcharge will vary by product type and be built into the product price rather than applied during the transaction so it is abundantly clear for customers. Because this is a temporary measure to recover spiraling costs, commissions will not be adjusted. Wholesale pricing has been adjusted according to the list below. Preferred Customer and online/catalog customer pricing will adjust at a commensurate rate.
This action is necessary due to rapid and significant increases in the cost of raw materials and other goods driven by ongoing global supply disruptions resulting from the conflict in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. These events have materially impacted the availability and cost of nearly everything required to manufacture our products.
AMSOIL leadership is ahead of this issue, and our top priority remains ensuring consistent supply of our high-quality lubricants to support your business and your customers.
We are actively working to secure the raw materials needed to maintain continuity, even as costs have risen substantially. Implementing this temporary surcharge allows us to continue delivering the products you rely on without disruption.
We will continue to closely monitor the situation, and we will adjust or remove the surcharge as market conditions dictate. Price lists and catalogs will not be updated until the situation stabilizes. Accurate pricing can be found by logging in to AMSOIL.com or by using the Pricing Lookup or EZ Quote tool in the Dealer Zone.
We appreciate your understanding and continued partnership during this challenging time.
For additional details, see the FAQs in the DealerZone.
AND THEN WHAT?--Everyday presents us with amazing opportunities around Easyriders. We may receive copies of the 600th issue by the first of next week.
We are launching four or five new/old products in the Easyriders shop next week. Our subscription sales went through the roof. But occassionally there’s a glitch. The last guys who ran the company didn’t play fair and blew it. They took the sub money for themselves and didn’t use it to pay for the company expenses, like printing the magazine. We corrected it, but the other day 250 subscribers came up for renewal. Fortunately a glitch in the system didn’t allow them to renew. We fixed the glitch, and today will reach out to all 250 to tell them how they can get back inside.
Two major marketing masters reached out with amazing proposals for the future, but these aren’t just proposals for Easyriders or subscriptions sales. They will rock the motorcycle industry in major positive ways.
We realized publishing six issues a year doesn’t cut it when it comes to covering bikes being built. We are working with a coffee-table publisher to create a bike builders annual. We are in the process of discussing some surprises to be included.
It’s never dull around the headquarters. Hang on for the next report.
Ride Free Forever,
–Bandit
The post THE BLEEDING BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS—for April 10th appeared first on Bikernet.com - Online Biker Magazine.