It’s all happening… Hey, Every day is amazing at the Bikernet and Easyriders headquarters. The CEO of a motorcycle company called me this morning. He just got off the phone after an hour conversation with the new CEO of Harley-Davidson. He’s excited about the future of Harley. Here are a couple of quick tidbits: Bill Davidson will have an office next to the CEO. The right folks will be on the board. And the Easyriders Podcast crew is meeting tomorrow. Looks like we will have the opportunity to interview the CEO of Harley. Speaking of Podcast, Athena, who is building the next Sturgis Museum raffle bike with the support of Vickie Sanfelipo and Easyriders, is taking her Podcast on the road. Of course, she will be interviewed on the Easyriders Podcast program and I will be interviewed on her podcast. I’ve been invited to be interviewed on three podcasts this week. I’ve been hesitant to step into the sound booth until we completed our first issue, Jan/Feb of 2026, and dialed in our social media program. We could complete those tasks this coming week. Noel Noel, Let’s hit the news: The News was provided by the Bikernet Team including: Wayfarer, the Redhead, Bob T. Sam Burns, Rogue, Laura, Barry Green, El Waggs, J.J. Solari, Amy White, Jenn and the rest of the crew. The Bikernet Weekly News is sponsored in part by companies who also dig Freedom including: Easyriders Magazine, Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. THE GEARHEAD MAKES ANOTHER STAB AT THE 100 WORD FICTION CHALLENGE– My two brothers, my wife and I crossed the Nevada highway going to the bar in the desert near the Jack Rabbit Ranch. We were headed to Nor.Cal. The wife’s helmet jiggled as we crossed the two-laner on our Harleys. The Sheriff flashed his lights and chased my wife toward the head. “Stop Lady,” he yelled. She ignored him and proceeded to the restroom outside the bar. My brothers disappeared into the bar knowin’ what was fixing to go down. They both had their outlaw reasons. We were packin’ and carryin’. The wife and I challenged the sheriff’s call. Everything coulda gone to shit. “I can take you in or you can sign the ticket,” the officer snapped. The chickenshit ticket written for crossing a state highway with a helmet improperly secured was bullshit, but it coulda been worse. Lucky day… –GearheadSoCal CHOPPERS MAGAZINE & David Mann Chopper Fest Announce Exclusive Licensing Deal With Jacquie Mann and the formation of The David Mann Legacy FoundationLos Angles, CA — Choppers Magazine and the David Mann Chopper Fest are proud to announce a historic, exclusive licensing agreement with Jacquie Mann, widow of legendary biker artist David Mann. This partnership grants Choppers Magazine and Chopper Fest exclusive rights to produce and sell new posters, apparel, and merchandise showcasing David Mann’s earliest body of work—including his iconic Ed Roth–era art and other rarely-seen pieces created before his famed run with Paisano Publications and Easyriders Magazine. These early works represent the foundation of David Mann’s artistic legacy, capturing the raw spirit of late-’50s and early-’60s custom-motorcycle culture. Many of these images have never been officially reproduced for public sale until now. The new merchandise line will debut throughout 2026, with limited-edition releases tied to major Chopper Fest events, special exhibitions, and Choppers Magazine drops. As part of this long-term agreement, Choppers Magazine and Chopper Fest will also support the launch of a new nonprofit organization: The David Mann Legacy Foundation. Created in collaboration with Jacquie Mann, the foundation will be dedicated to preserving, protecting, and showcasing the artwork of David Mann, while also uplifting other influential biker artists who helped shape the culture. In addition to archival preservation, the foundation plans to host exhibitions, educational programs, and curated showcases at future David Mann Chopper Fest events nationwide. “David’s early art is where the whole story really begins,” said Jacquie Mann. “I’m excited to finally share these pieces with the world in a way that honors who David was, a true original. Choppers Magazine and Chopper Fest understand that spirit, and I’m proud to partner with them on this next chapter.” Choppers Magazine Editor-in-Chief Cary Brobeck added, “This is something we’ve dreamed about for years. To work directly with Jacquie, to bring David’s earliest art back into the light, and to help build a foundation that protects his legacy, it’s an honor. This is a huge moment for chopper culture.” The first wave of merch and collectible prints will be unveiled soon, with preview announcements coming via Choppers Magazine, Chopper Fest social channels, and partner events. For updates, visit www.choppersmagazine.com and www.chopperfestival.com. QUOTE OF THE WEEK– “Associate yourself with men of good quality, if you esteem your own reputation; for it is better to be alone than in bad company.” — George Washington TOOL OF THE WEEK– Come across as a cool, collected mechanic and be the envy of your neighborhood Install neck cups straight, and with ease, using our Neck Cup & Bearing Race Installer Tool. This simple tool has everything you need to not only install neck cups, but to also press Timken style races into the neck cups themselves. The time saved using this tool allows the average user an additional 36 minutes of garage time to stare at the task they just completed and high five their moral support buddy. This is just one more of many original, heavy-duty, affordable tools designed and produced just for you by Lowbrow Customs. Made in the USA BEST PARTY NEWS– Let’s fill the “after Thanksgiving but before Christmas” void with something exciting…. BAND ANNOUNCEMENT COMING TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16 Find out what band will set the tone at the Official Rally Kickoff Party and join Lainey Wilson and Lynyrd Skynyrd on the lineup At The Best Party Anywhere® KICKSTARTS & CHRONICLES FROM COMPETITION DISTRIBUTING–The Flying Banana aka Wooler Article From Yesterdays John Wooler was a designer with many brilliant ideas, and all his creations were unconventional. His first product,  first presented at the 1911 Olympia Show, was a two-stroke flat single with a double-ended piston, and his last creation was nothing less than a transverse flat four, the development of which began during the Second World War. This advanced design was shown in prototype form at the 1954 Earls Court Motorcycle Show, but it never really reached the production stage, probably due to high tooling costs.During the first war John Wooler had prepared a redesigned version of his original design: it was now equipped with a flat twin four-stroke engine with IOE valve configuration, and was available to the public in April 1919. The fascinating thing with this motorcycle is that wherever you look, you find unconventional and often very advanced engineering solutions. To name a few:  plunger suspension at both wheels, detachable spare petrol tank in front of the  steering head, cradle frame entirely built up from straight tubes, expanding pulley gearing system giving  9 preset ratios including a neutral for traffic riding. The oil is contained in a bolted-on sump below the crankcase and is picked up by a chain that delivers the oil to the crankcase. No old fashioned things like hand pumps on a Wooler! Another smart detail: a Wooler toolkit has only one spanner in it, because there are only two specific hexagon sizes on the machine. And that flying banana nickname? Well, just look at the shape and colour scheme of the petrol tank…. –Competition Distributing POWERSPORTS PRODUCTS EXCLUDED– from PFAS Bans in MA and NJ What’s Happening Lawmakers in Massachusetts and New Jersey amended proposed PFAS chemical bans to exempt powersports vehicles and gear, following advocacy from the Government Relations team for MIC, SVIA, and ROHVA. What Are PFAS Chemicals? PFAS chemicals are used for their durability and resistance to heat, fuel, and moisture in a range of vehicle components and riding gear. While manufacturers are committed to finding alternatives, PFAS chemicals remain a currently unavoidable use in certain applications. Why It Matters Earlier versions of these bills would have restricted products essential to vehicle safety and rider protection. The exemptions prevent powersports gear and youth-model vehicles from being unintentionally swept into bans targeting unrelated consumer goods. ROYAL ENFIELD CELEBRATES 125 YEARS– with Major Partnership for the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track Season BTR Returns for its 7th Season: Bigger, Faster, and Coast-to-Coast One of motorcycling’s most storied brands is charging into its 125th anniversary year with the throttle wide open. Royal Enfield, a name woven into the fabric of two-wheeled history, will return as a major partner of Progressive AFT for the 2026 season, building on the momentum of its successful collaboration with the series and its growing presence within the flat track paddock. This announcement follows Royal Enfield’s previously confirmed role as entitlement partner of the 2026 Daytona Short Track Doubleheader, where the season launches with two nights of bar-to-bar intensity at DAYTONA Short Track I & II. As the brand celebrates 125 years of uninterrupted motorcycle production, Royal Enfield is set to amplify its impact on AFT’s biggest stages, honoring its heritage while pushing into a new era of American flat track competition. BTR Returns for its 7th Season: Bigger, Faster, and Coast-to-Coast Back for its seventh year in the spotlight, Royal Enfield’s BUILD.TRAIN.RACE. (BTR) program continues to elevate aspiring women racers and inspire fans across all generations. The 2026 edition will feature five showcase rounds, aligned with key stops on the Progressive AFT schedule: Rounds 1 & 2 – Royal Enfield DAYTONA Short Track I & II Daytona Beach, FL – Short Track (March 5–6) Round 4 – Ventura Short Track Ventura, CA – Short Track (April 25) Round 7 – Williams Grove Half-Mile Mechanicsburg, PA – Half-Mile (May 23) Round 8 – Nashville Short Track Hohenwald, TN – Short Track (June 6) From the sand-slinging intensity of Daytona to the inaugural event in Nashville, BTR will once again showcase raw talent, grassroots grit, and the unmistakable spirit of Royal Enfield. A Partnership Built on Heritage and High Performance “As we hit 125 years, we are feeling younger than ever!” said Adrian Sellers, Head of Custom & Motorsport at Royal Enfield. “And a big part of that has been thanks to the fun we have in flat track racing. Whether it’s seeing the future of racing out there on track with the women of BUILD.TRAIN.RACE. or pushing the Twins FT to its limits in SuperTwins, we’re very excited to be back and looking forward to another exceptional year of racing.” Royal Enfield’s commitment to developing competitive flat track machinery, highlighted by the evolution of the Twins FT platform, demonstrates the brand’s long-term vision for racing in North America. Combined with the BTR program’s rider development pipeline, the partnership stands as one of the most dynamic and fan-forward initiatives in the sport. A Milestone Worth Twisting the Grip For As Royal Enfield honors 125 years of motorcycling (longer than any manufacturer on earth) Progressive AFT fans can expect special on-site activations, merchandise, storytelling features, and expanded engagement throughout the 2026 season. From the garage to the grandstands, from new riders to longtime diehards, this is a celebration tailored for the entire flat track family. Tickets On Sale Now for the 2026 DAYTONA Short Track Doubleheader Kick off the season and Royal Enfield’s 125th anniversary year where the action never lets up: under the lights at Daytona. For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, visit AmericanFlatTrack.com. NEWS FROM THE CHIP EMPIRE–RIDE SAFE, HAVE FUN WITH PROGRESSIVE There’s a reason everyone calls the Sturgis Buffalo Chip the Best Party Anywhere. Whether you’re here for the music, the miles, or the campground vibes, you’re guaranteed to head home with stories and new riding buddies. Ride with confidence knowing Progressive has your back throughout the year. Basic liability policies start at $75 per year* and they offer optional coverages like 24/7 Roadside Assistance, Trip Interruption, and Motorcycle Rental Coverage, so you can enjoy the open road with peace of mind. With colder weather coming, Progressive wants to help you keep your ride protected during those cooler months. Trust America’s #1 motorcycle insurer** to keep your next ride protected. LOTS OF CONTROVERSY WITH HARLEY RECENTLY– Harley-Davidson sold about 344,000 motorcycles during its 2006 peak but just over 151,000 in 2024, according to Common Tread. Gatto told the blog that in recent years, following the coronavirus pandemic, “especially once the interest rates went up, was when all hell broke loose and sales fell off a cliff. There was too much inventory and manufacturers were pushing dealers to take it.” The company’s shift to e-commerce has also been a challenge for dealers, Gatto told Common Tread, which noted Harley-Davidson management declined to comment for its story about the closures. Dealerships have shuttered across the country in the past two years, including in California, Illinois, New York, Florida, Missouri, Colorado, Wyoming and Pennsylvania, TheStreet reported, citing local news and industry media. A Harley-Davidson dealership on San Francisco’s Mission Street that had been in business for 110 years abruptly closed last year, according to KRON, which reported the closure in June of 2024, noting that the location was started in 1914 by Dudley Perkins Sr., was at one point the brand’s longest-running family-owned dealership and was among the oldest brands in the city. POSSIBLE EASYRIDERS FUTURE FEATURE BIKE– Yo Bandit, This is a 10 year plus project that a friend of mine bought me a set of 37 UL cases and said build me a motor. A little at a time I would work on this project having to do machining on cases etc. I did take pictures of some of the machining if you are interested in doing a story. Owner Neno Brougham did the rest.  It has electric start 80” motor. If interested let me know I was thinking of bringing it down to Chopper fest if timing works out for me. Thanks. Carlo. Yes, of course we are interested. –Bandit Best Cruiser: 2025 Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide RR Like so many categories in motorcycling, the term cruiser is open to interpretation. Your version and someone else’s might not align perfectly, but few would argue that most Harley-Davidson motorcycles (with a few exceptions like the Adventure models) get lumped together as cruisers. In our view, a bagger is a cruiser with bags, so there is no question that the CVO Road Glide RR fits the bill. There is also very little argument that the CVO Road Glide RR is the most badass production Harley ever built. When the King of the Baggers series became a regular class in MotoAmerica in 2021, no one knew what to expect. Taking advantage of the popularity of bagger motorcycles from Harley-Davidson and Indian, combined with the spectacle of watching 620-pound bikes run near Supersport-level lap times, the class has become a staple of the series. So it comes as little of a surprise that Harley would build as close of a street-legal facsimile as possible to its championship winning Road Glide for 131 lucky buyers to snatch up. The RR is powered by the 131c.i. engine Harley previously only offered as a crate engine. It pumps out a claimed 153 hp at 5750 rpm and 150 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4750 rpm. The chassis is as trick as anything in the bagger world, with a one-piece CNC-machined swingarm that starts out as a 220-pound block of aluminum, top-end Öhlins suspension, near-MotoGP level Brembo brakes, and enough cornering clearance to carry an inspiring pace around a racetrack. But it wouldn’t be a CVO without its amazing paint, high-end finishes, and of course a killer sound system. Add it all up and the CVO Road Glide RR is one of the most amazing cruisers we’ve ever ridden. A Huge Retraction: Journal Nature has finally retracted ‘fatally flawed’ study used to ‘justify projections of catastrophic future climate impacts’ – Authors admit errors are ‘too substantial’ for just a correction — By ROGER PIELKE JR. Excerpt: Some huge news dropped today that will reverberate through climate science and policy. Nature has finally retracted “The Economic Commitment of Climate Change,” by Kotz et al. (KLW24), more than 18 months after first learning that the paper was fatally flawed, with the authors acknowledging that its errors are “too substantial” for a correction. It is not just the retraction that matters — that’s long overdue — but the reaction to the retraction, which indicates that while the old ways still have a grip on the climate discussion, things may be changing for the better. Back in August, I explained the growing scandal around KLW24: It wasn’t just a fatally flawed paper, but a flawed paper that had taken on outsized influence in climate advocacy and policy. For instance, KLW24 was the second most featured climate paper by the media in all of 2024, according to Carbon Brief. More importantly, KLW24 has been widely used in policy around the world to justify projections of catastrophic future climate impacts and as a basis for cost-benefit analyses of mitigation. Notable examples include:     U.S. Congressional Budget Office     OECD     World Bank     UK Office for Budget Responsibility Significantly, the Network for Greening the Financial System, a consortium comprised primarily of central banks around the world, adopted KLW24 as the basis for its “damage function” used by bank regulators to stress test monetary policies against climate risks. Consequently, it is not an exaggeration to claim that KLW24 has a potential financial impact on just about everyone. Of note, the U.S. Federal Reserve withdrew from the NGFS on January 17, 2025 The Times cites some of the critics of KLW24. For instance, Christof Schötz (who, interestingly, happens to be a colleague of the authors of KLW24 at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research) pulls no punches with his accurate portrayal of KLW24:     The paper does not provide additional evidence of economic damages from climate change, nor can it serve as a basis for reliable future projections. The NYT also cites Lint Barrage, chair of energy and climate economics at ETH Zurich, who offers an important warning, and not just to the authors of KLW24, but more broadly to the climate research community:     It can feel sometimes, depending on the audience, that there’s an expectation of finding large estimates. If your goal is to try to make the case for climate change, you have crossed the line from scientist to activist, and why would the public trust you? Well said. –Climate Depot 100 Word Fiction Challenge Continues: Long ride prep by Steven Sanner I figured six days on the road. I only had two at the Hotel/Casino where we had to be “acceptable” around normal citizens that I gave a damn how I looked or smelled. Good thing they have laundry service. Three clean shirts and good jeans were necessary, four pairs of good socks, a pair of walking shoes (my old black Chucks) and then my riding gear. Plus, a bed roll. I’m glad I’m riding alone, the 600 mile days will be enjoyable. And the MOTM in Shreveport will reinvigorate this old freedom fighter. Now the bike prep. Get Bandit’s Bedroll at 5-Ball Garage, click here WHAT COULD IT BE?– How about some strange thoughts to have a Jack on the rocks with and ponder. My son loves this alien stuff. He’s convinced we’re doomed. But what if the aliens cruise by and say, “This place is the shit and look at the girls and those choppers. This is heaven. We can’t mess with it.” Think about it. Just 100 years ago the world was a much tougher place to live in and around. There are folks who want us to be portrayed as bad, even evil, but they missed the real history lesson and all that we have accomplished. It’s completely incredible. So, how does what we do fit in? And what’s it going to be for Harley-Davidson. To my way of thinking it’s all good. In fact, it’s better than good. Harley just needs to embrace the aftermarket, the history and the old scooters. They can do it while building the most beautiful, high-tech bikes on the planet. I won’t dive into it today, but maybe work out some details and share them with the CEO. I finished lots of projects on the King Bike. Have a fantastic Holiday Time, you deserve it. —— Bandit The post THE HISTORIC BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for December 11th, 2025 appeared first on Bikernet.com - Online Biker Magazine.