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THE STORIED BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS—for July 16th 2026
Hey,
This is a wild week. Almost daily we receive stories about folks who have serious or family history in the industry. A guy contacted us about his badass mom who was on the cover with Rip.
A brother drove from Colorado to show me his father’s bike. He took his entire family to Wyoming to scatter his Dad’s ashes with at his grandfathers home.
Another brother sent me photos of all the bikes his dad built. He’s also a builder and still has his first Harley. Jake may take on the family history as an editorial project.
It’s amazing and new stories surface all the time. I love stories revolving around regular folks who made choppers their non-stop thing. They’re not famous builders but guys who loved the build, the open road and the romance of finding a woman who shared the passion with them through thick and thin until the end.
Watch for these stories to unveil themselves in Easyriders magazine and on our blog. It’s a kick, inspiring and heart-warming. Hang on.
Let’s hit the news.
The Bikernet Weekly News was created by our non-stop, never give up staff: The Redhead, Wayfarer, LA Laura, Viscous Vickie, Danial James, Freak Show Team, Sturgis Prospect Kendra, Paul Davis, Agent Zebra and Berry Wardlaw.
Quote of the week from Vinnie Terranova:
Don’t let people live rent free in your head.
–the Blade
ANOTHER GUN NUT REPORT TO CONSIDER–
We wanted to take a moment to share why litigation remains such an important tool in advancing and protecting our Second Amendment Rights.
Litigation plays a critical role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that laws and regulations do not infringe on our freedoms. When other avenues-such as legislation, or administrative processes-fail to resolve disputes or address harm, litigation provides a structured and enforceable path to accountability and the restoration of our Second Amendment rights.
Beyond resolving individual cases, litigation can have a broader impact. Court decisions often set precedents that clarify legal standards, influence future conduct, and shape policy outcomes. In this way, strategic litigation can drive systemic change, protect rights, and deter unlawful or harmful behavior. For several years, your NRA-ILA litigation department was involved in the landmark 2022 U.S. Supreme Court case NYSRPA v. Bruen. This case affirmed our individual right to carry a firearm for self-defense while fundamentally changing the legal review process for firearm related legislation nationwide.
Litigation also serves as a check and balance within our legal system. It ensures that government agencies, corporations, and other powerful actors remain accountable to the law, reinforcing public trust and institutional integrity. Your NRA-ILA Litigation team is involved in dozens of active cases nationwide, and you can read all about them here: https://www.nraila.org/legal-legislation/current-litigation/.
For these reasons, litigation is not simply about winning a case-it is about safeguarding our rights, reversing government overreach, and advancing long-term objectives that might otherwise be unattainable.
–NRA
TRUMP STANDS UP FOR GUN NUTS–
Trump Reinforces Support for the Second Amendment During National AM250 Address
Trump Reinforces Support for the Second Amendment During National AM250 Address
It may not need to be said, but we’ll keep saying it: Donald Trump is the most pro-Second Amendment president in the NRA’s history of protecting the right to keep and bear arms. While the nation watched the amazing celebration of the 250th anniversary of America’s independence from the British monarchy on July 4, he once again made that clear.
Judge Rules Preliminary Injunction Against Virginia “Assault Firearm” and Magazine Bans Secured by NRA Applies Statewide
LEGAL & LEGISLATION
Judge Rules Preliminary Injunction Against Virginia “Assault Firearm” and Magazine Bans Secured by NRA Applies Statewide
In the NRA’s challenge to Virginia’s “assault firearm” and magazine bans, Santolla v. Katz, Judge Jeffrey L. Campbell of the Washington County Circuit Court issued a letter opinion yesterday making clear that the preliminary injunction preventing enforcement of the bans applies statewide.
A CLIP FROM A STORY– So amidst the million and one self-help books, podcasts, and symposiums targeting every adult chasing that brass ring and existential fulfillment, we can learn this one one simple rule from my dad and his Vietnam pals: have some fucking fun.
Mac Hinman flew 550 combat missions at tree-top level concealing a guerrilla force desperate to kill him. He has never forgotten that. As a result, he has had one hell of a good life. He runs, he hikes, he skis, he reads, he laughs, he fishes, he dines, he parties, and he yes, he drinks—because drinking too much beer and whiskey will never be as hazardous to your health as a gun fight with the Viet Cong.
The great C.S. Lewis, veteran of the First World War and legendary writer, once said this with a giant smile:
“There’s no sound I like better than adult male laughter.”
So take a breath fellas and call upon your pals. Drink too much, eat too much, tell offensive jokes, raise hell, get loud, and consider your hangover a reminder from God that life is meant to be lived with hearty laughs and pervasive hugs.
So here’s to my dad and his band of brothers who escaped the grim reaper in Vietnam and saw every day thereafter as gravy. As the years and decades have passed, they’ve never forgotten how to live—embracing, celebrating, and coveting the most important ingredient for a happy life: Fellowship.
–ED HinmanFrom his story The Barbarian in You
Integrated Risers- Raw by Universal Cycle
SKU 9031 with Current price $279.99
Springer Fork unitized tree and riser for inline Spring Forks, Big Twins, 45″ models and most custom chopper forks. Features a cast steel construction. Riser is investment cast with satin nickel plating and vibration ground finish. Includes parkerized hex bolts, 7/16 x 20 included. Risers accepts 1″ handlebars.
Accepts 1″ Studs 4.75″ on center.
FITS:
EL 1937-1945
FL 1941-1945
W 1937-1952
–Throttle Addiction
THE LATEST FROM PROGRESSIVE–ULTRA-TOURING SHOCKS:
Featuring an all new look and the same great performance, the 944 Ultra Touring is designed to sit 1” lower than a stock H-D Touring model and provide exceptional ride quality. Utilizing our patented Frequency Sensing Technology (F.S.T.), 944 Series shocks shine in their ability to adapt to road conditions in real time by dynamically adjusting compression and rebound settings, eliminating the need for external adjustments. These shocks are available in Standard (good for combined rider weights up to 250 lbs), Heavy-Duty (250 lbs to 350 lbs), and Super Duty (350 lbs and up).
ULTRA-LOW SHOCKS:
Featuring an all new look and the same great performance, the 944 Ultra Low is designed to sit 2” lower than a stock H-D Touring model and provide the best ride a short shock is capable of. Utilizing our patented Frequency Sensing Technology (F.S.T.), 944 Series shocks shine in their ability to adapt to road conditions in real time by dynamically adjusting compression and rebound settings, eliminating the need for external adjustments. These lowered shocks are available in Standard (good for combined rider weights up to 250 lbs) and Heavy-Duty (250 lbs to 350 lbs).
Frequency Sensing Technology (FST) allows the shocks to sense the frequency of a bump and automatically adjust damping for superior ride quality
Sits 1” lower on most models
Adjust spring pre-load by hand, no special tool needed
Progressive Rate Main springs specifically designed for touring
Available in Standard and Heavy Duty spring rates
Lifetime Limited Warranty
We are considering this scooter for a feature.
RIGHT TO REPAIR RULES— The White House has released a Presidential Memorandum — “Promoting the Freedom to Fix” — regarding conducting emission-related repairs that directs the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide guidance, increase clarity for aftermarket manufacturers, and allow individuals to repair their own vehicles in good faith.
This memo, along with the recent Federal Trade Commission settlement on agricultural right to repair, indicates the strong support the right to repair issue has at the federal and state level. The AMA will continue to monitor right-to-repair efforts and work to ensure motorcycles are included in any new guidance.
Also — The first public meeting of the revitalized Motorcyclist Advisory Council (MAC), which includes AMA Washington Representative Zach Farmer, will take place on July 15, from 1 to 5 p.m. More information regarding the inaugural meeting can be found at federalregister.gov/documents/2026/05/18/2026-09844/motorcyclist-advisory-council-notice-of-public-meeting.
The council was re-established to provide advice and recommendations to the Secretary of Transportation on safety regulations to reduce crashes and fatalities. More information is available on the overview page of the Motorcyclist Advisory Council.
Also — President Donald Trump has signed orders that reduced the size of two national monuments in southern Utah, the Bears Ears National Monument and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The orders reduce the size of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument from about 1.87 million acres to about 181,500 acres, and Bears Ears National monument from about 1.36 million acres to about 121,100 acres.
The two national monuments have oscillated in size through the previous several presidential administrations. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument was initially created by President Bill Clinton in September 1996. Bears Ears National Monument was created by President Barack Obama in December 2016. The latest executive orders mark the second time Trump has made such an approval. In 2017, during his first term, the president also shrank the designations, an effort that was later reversed by the Biden administration.
LIFESTYLE CYCLE DEAL OF THE WEEK– Nothing screams tear me down and build me up like a Softail Slim!
Stock# 14866
2018 Harley Davidson FLS Softail Slim with only 10,280 miles!
This Slim is badder than you can imagine, you just need to get the right parts!
* Harley OEM Industrial Gray Denim Paintjob
* 107 Cubic Inch Harley Milwaukee 8 Motor
* 6 Speed Harley Transmission
* Mustang Two-Up Seat
* Vance and Hines Dual Chrome Slip-Ons
* Rider Floorboards
* Stock Black Handlebars
* Stock Air Cleaner with Black Cover
This bike is only $11,995.00
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/
DROP ALERT: REGISTRATIONS OPEN FOR THE LIMITED EDITION ROYAL ENFIELD SHOTGUN 650 x ROUGH CRAFTS MOTORCYCLES–
Royal Enfield, the global leader in the mid-sized motorcycle segment, today commenced the registrations for its limited edition Shotgun 650, created in collaboration with the celebrated custom builder – Rough Crafts.
Inspired by the bespoke custom motorcycle ‘Caliber Royale’, this limited-edition Shotgun 650 was first showcased at EICMA 2025 followed by its showcase at Motoverse 2025, and has since generated excitement globally.
Limited to just 100 individually numbered motorcycles across India, Europe, North America and APAC, the Shotgun 650 x Rough Crafts Drop is a true collector’s piece.
The exclusive, limited edition Shotgun will be priced at MSRP USD $7,999 in the USA and MSRP CAD $10,799 in Canada, respectively. 10 units will be available for sale in the USA and 2 units will be available for sale in Canada.
The motorcycle drop sale date will be phased by geographic region between July 27-30, 2026 as per the below details:
July 27, 2026 | EMEA Sale Day | 7PM CET
July 28, 2026 | Americas Sale Day | 10AM EST
July 29, 2026 | APAC Sale Day | 7PM AEDT
July 30, 2026 | India Sale Day | 7PM IST
To be eligible to participate on the sale day, users in the U.S.A. and Canada are required to register themselves in the Drop Zone from July 15, 2026 through July 28, 2026.
U.S.A.: https://www.royalenfield.com/us/en/motorcycles/shotgun-roughcrafts-edition
Canada: https://www.royalenfield.com/ca/en/motorcycles/shotgun-roughcrafts-edition
On the sale day, customers will need to sign in and complete a registration form. On a first come, first serve basis, customers will be notified of their ability to secure one of the limited edition Shotgun 650 custom motorcycles. Those notified will have 48 hours to place a deposit with their local Royal Enfield dealership.
Born from a culture of custom motorcycles, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650, with its modular design philosophy, is a perfect canvas for self-expression and a standout platform for customization. The collaboration with Rough Crafts brings forth exclusivity and craftsmanship, reflecting Royal Enfield’s lasting connection with the culture of customization.
Speaking on the limited edition drop, Adrian Sellers, Head- Custom & Motorsports, Royal Enfield, said, “An elegant new expression of the Shotgun 650’s custom-first philosophy, this latest edition carries a distinctive design language inspired by the ‘Caliber Royale’ custom build—aligning perfectly with Rough Crafts’ signature black and gold aesthetic. With this limited-run motorcycle, we are proud to bring the artistry, craftsmanship, and understated yet aggressive silhouette of the original Rough Crafts custom build to our global community of riders, proving once again the limitless creative potential of the Shotgun 650 platform. This edition stands out as a collectible icon that inspires desirability while reaffirming Royal Enfield’s deep-rooted connection to the culture of personalization.”
Styled with a combination of Gloss Jet Black and Matt Stealth Black, the motorcycle features a striking Gold Leaf stripe with a subtle grey accent flowing seamlessly across its panels, complemented by limited-edition numbering on the tank. A cast brass collaboration badge, identical to the one adorning the original custom, reinforces its authenticity. The other premium additions such as matching black bar-end mirrors, quilted leather seats, contrast-cut alloy rims, and gold fork inner tubes elevate both desirability and road presence. In addition to the motorcycle, owners will also receive a numbered limited edition gold on black artwork of a Caliber Royale custom build sketch, designed and signed by Winston Yeh of Rough Crafts.
Caliber Royale was custom-built by Rough Crafts with the Shotgun 650 as its base. It featured stretched proportions, signature fairing, handcrafted finishes in gloss and matte paint, gold leaf accents, and minute changes to the frame. Taking inspiration from the Caliber Royale, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 x Rough Crafts Drop elevates the Shotgun’s muscular stance with exquisite design elements.
For more details, visit www.royalenfield.com or contact your nearest Royal Enfield dealer.
ANOTHER QUOTE TO PONDER–
“Knowledge can last, principles can last, habits can last; but feelings come and go.”— C.S. Lewis
–Epoch Times
AMAZING NEWS OF THE WEEK–
The House of Representatives on Tuesday passed legislation that would end the biannual daylight saving time clock changes in the United States permanently. The House passed the legislation, dubbed the Sunshine Protection Act, in a 308–117 vote, sending it to the Senate for approval. Daniella above is celebrating!
–Epoch Times
OKAY, WHAT’S NEXT– Life is absolutely nuts. Try to wrap your head around my to-do list.
I’m working on the Captain America and Billy Bikes. The pipes were both loose at the head. I bought new pipe clamps from Lowbrow, but needed to cut the squish notches deeper in the pipes. I also did something crazy I do to keep the pipes in place. I’ll show you those next week. I’m hoping the Billy Bike is ready for the ride to downtown Sturgis soon.
With the help of Dakota V-Twin I replaced the rear tire and adjusted both chains. I’ve remade the pipes and I’m praying the front one works out with the s-pipe under the engine.
We are scrambling for the Rally and with the help of Ellen Teresi we were able to give several members of the staff these cool silver pendants. That’s Penny, our advertising directors. She’ll be in Sturgis for the Rally along with most of the staff.
Dave Nichols will be there, plus we’re throwing a party on Sunday to celebrate our industry, unveil a magnificent Danial James painting and here’s just a teaser.
No, that’s not the painting he will unveil, but you will see this piece in the next issue. We will also invite Team Easyriders members to come meet the staff and collect some cool ER stuff. The Party will rock downtown at the Emporium on the 9th of August from 5-8. We will offer snacks, beer, wine and a good time. And there could be an interesting surprise, and I may have more about it next week.
I’m scrambling to prepare for Bonneville just a week after the rally. Received this shot just yesterday of the Bonne Belle new exhaust system build by Andrew at Departure Bike Works in Richmond, VA. Is that sleek or what.
The rally is just a couple of weeks away and it’s never dull around the headquarters, plus we are right in the middle of putting the next issue together. I spoke to Keith Kizer from the AMCA today, the Antique Motorcycle Club of America. You should join. I’m talking to him on the phone and he mentioned my membership number from a few years back. I said something about being a member a while ago, so he checked 1975 and there I was. Suddenly, as a 50 year member I reached lifetime status and no charge. Amazing.
Okay, I need to fix motorcycles and find party favors. So, I better get to it.
See you at the rally.
–Bandit
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