California’s history is as rich as the gold that once lured thousands to its rugged mountains and remote deserts. Scattered across the state are ghost towns that tell the stories of boom and bust, where fortunes were made and lost in the blink of an eye. These eerie remnants of a bygone era invite you to step back in time and explore the dusty streets, crumbling saloons, and abandoned mines that were once alive with the promise of wealth. Here are 10 of California’s most intriguing ghost towns that deserve a spot on your exploration list.   1. Ballarat Stone marker in Ballarat ghost town, California. Source: Flickr   Established in 1897 as a supply hub for the mines in the nearby Panamint Mountains, this Californian desert ghost town quickly grew during the gold rush. It’s located in the Panamint Valley of Death Valley National Park and served over 500 residents at its peak.   Back in time, Ballarat featured seven saloons, three hotels, a jail, a school, and a post office. They all catered to adventurers and prospectors alike. But, as mining prospects dried up, the town was abandoned by 1917.   Ballarat’s remnants include today weathered stone structures, rusting trucks, and other relics that paint a picture of its vibrant yet fleeting past.   One of the most famous residents of Ballarat was Charles “Seldom Seen Slim.”  He was a long-time hermit who lived in town until he died in 1968.   The town jail is one of the most notable historical sites to visit in Ballarat. This small stone building once held unruly miners and visitors. Another key landmark is the Ballarat Cemetery, which houses graves of early residents.   2. Cerro Gordo Silver mining ghost town of Cerro Gordo, California. Source: Wikimedia Commons   This town is located in the Inyo Mountains of California and was a thriving silver mining town in the late 19th century. Cerro Gordo was founded in 1865 and quickly grew after local businessman Victor Beaudry acquired several mining claims and established essential infrastructure. This included a general store and the lucrative Union Mine.   By 1869, this historic Californian town became the largest producer of silver and lead in the United States, with mule teams transporting the wealth down to Los Angeles. This boom led to Cerro Gordo’s rapid expansion, which included numerous mining structures, saloons, and a hotel.   Several historical sites still remain today in town, and one of the most notable ones you should see when visiting is the original 1871 American Hotel. Other places to see include the 1904 Bunkhouse and the Belshaw House, which was built in 1868. As for the general store, it’s been turned into a small museum where you can learn about Cerro Gordo’s lively past.   Although there was a fire in 2020 that damaged several of these structures, efforts are ongoing to restore the site as a tourist destination.   When visiting Cerro Gordo, you’ll also have the chance to see remnants of the Inyo Mine and the Gordon House. The latter dates back to 1909, the town’s “zinc era.” It’s also worth exploring some of the other mining relics scattered throughout the area.   3. Calico Calico, a ghost town located in Yermo, California. Source: Wikimedia Commons   This historic ghost town is located in Southern California and was founded during one of the state’s largest silver strikes in 1881. Calico had 500 mines when it quickly boomed, producing over $20 million in silver ore. However, when silver prices plummeted in the mid-1890s, the town became deserted so quickly, actually, as fast as it had grown. By 1896, the once-bustling mining town was largely abandoned, leaving behind a few hardy residents.   Nestled in the Calico Mountains, this Californian historic town also faced many devastating fires during its early years. The most notable of these is the fire that occurred in 1884 when numerous structures were destroyed. Also, another major blaze in 1887 decimated 135 buildings. After this incident, many buildings were rebuilt using stone to prevent future fire damage.   In the 1950s, the founder of Knott’s Berry Farm, Walter Knott, purchased Calico and restored it to its former glory. He converted it into a tourist attraction where history lovers can experience the Old West. Today, the town is managed as a regional park, where you can enjoy tours, historical exhibits, and ghost town reenactments.   4. Bodie County Barn, Bodie, California. Source: Wikimedia Commons   Located in the high desert of California, Bodie is one of the best-preserved ghost towns from the Gold Rush era. The town was founded in 1859 after Waterman S. Body discovered gold. Since then, it transformed into a thriving boomtown in the 1870s. By 1879, Bodie had a population that peaked at around 10,000 and over 2,000 structures, including saloons, gambling halls, and opium dens.   But, as mining dwindled, the town declined, and by 1942, Bodie was completely abandoned. In 1962, the Californian town became a State Historic Park, preserved in a “state of arrested decay.”   When visiting Bodie today, you can explore several historical sites, including the Standard Stamp Mill, which processed tons of ore in the town. There’s also the Methodist Church, which is the only church still standing in Bodie. Don’t forget to visit the J.S. Cain House, which was home to Bodie’s richest resident, J.S. Cain. As for the Miners’ Union Hall, it is now a museum that showcases artifacts and memorabilia from Bodie’s mining past.   Other notable historical sites to visit in town include the Boone Store & Warehouse, the DeChambeau Hotel & I.O.O.F. Building, and the Lottie and Eli Johl House.   5. Johannesburg Silver mines and graveyards in Johannesburg, California. Source: Wikimedia Commons   This small, historic mining town is located in the high desert of Kern County, California. Johannesburg was established as part of the Rand Mining District in the 1890s alongside neighboring towns like Red Mountain and Randsburg. The town was named after the gold-rich Witwatersrand in South Africa. Its development was closely tied to the nearby mining activities, such as the King Solomon Mine, which is still a site you can visit today.   Thanks to the presence of the Randsburg Railway, Johannesburg became a bustling transportation hub at its peak. The railway was used to transport equipment, supplies, and ore for processing. Despite the fact that the railway tracks are long gone, you can still explore today the remnants of Johannesburg’s mining heritage. This includes the Old headframe of the King Solomon Mine as well as the Johannesburg Cemetery, where you can learn about the lives of past residents.   Some of the other notable historical sites you need to visit when in this historic Californian ghost town include the remains of the town’s early post office, boarding houses, music hall, and saloons.   6. Saltdale Cudahy Old Dutch Cleanser Mine near Saltdale. Source: Wikimedia Commons   Saltdale has a unique history rooted in salt harvesting. It’s a small, unincorporated community in California’s Kern County. It was founded in 1914 to extract salt from Koehn Dry Lake, a rare “moist” playa where groundwater naturally surfaced and deposited salt. In 1916, the Fremont Salt Company established the first saltworks there, followed by the Consolidated Salt Company, which took over in 1922. Saltdale’s production reached around 22,000 tons per year during its peak.   Fast forward to the late 1920s, and Saltdale has a company store, post office, and a small school for the children of the workers, despite the fact that the latter struggled with low attendance. Saltdale was relatively isolated, relying heavily on the Southern Pacific Railroad for the transportation of salt and other materials. Over the years, the town experienced several booms and busts, where it faced power and water shortages that hindered production.   At present, you can visit the mostly-abandoned town where you can see only remnants of its industrial past. This includes old foundations and traces of the salt ponds.   7. North Bloomfield Malakoff Diggings State Park, North Bloomfield, California. Source: Flickr   Located within the Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park in California, North Bloomfield is a well-preserved ghost town that was established in the mid-19th century. It originally bore the name “Humbug City” before becoming a prominent hydraulic mining town during the Gold Rush era.   The town grew around the Malakoff Diggins, the largest hydraulic mine in California, where powerful water jets washed away entire hillsides to extract gold. However, this technique caused significant environmental damage and led to landmark litigation that ended hydraulic mining in the 1880s, which contributed to North Bloomfield’s decline.   Today, you have the chance to experience the Gold Rush history when visiting this Californian ghost town. For instance, the Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park, which encompasses 3,143 acres, includes various historic sites such as the North Bloomfield Museum, a church, preserved homes, and the remnants of the mining operations.   You can enjoy the guided tours, which are available daily through October. They will take you through North Bloomfield’s original buildings and teach you about the rise and fall of hydraulic mining. The park also features guided gold panning experiences on Humbug Creek, so you might consider these as well.   8. Chinese Camp Chinese Camp Elementary School, Chinese Camp, California. Source: Wikimedia Commons   This historic town in California was established during the Gold Rush era around 1849. English miners were those who initially founded Chinese Camp by employing Chinese laborers. The town quickly became a hub for Chinese mining companies as well as a community center for thousands of Chinese immigrants. It was home to over 5,000 Chinese residents at its peak and played a major role in the region’s mining operations.   Chinese Camp gained notoriety for being the site of California’s first recorded Chinese Tong War in 1856 between the Yan Woo and Sam Yap tongs.   When visiting this ghost town, you’ll have the chance to explore several notable historical sites, such as the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. The latter was established in 1855. This makes it the oldest church in Tuolumne County. Despite the fact that it was renovated, the church is now in a state of disrepair. However, it remains a key historical landmark. Another preserved structure that you must visit in Chinese Camp is the old stone-and-brick post office, which was built in 1854.   It’s worth noting that Chinese Camp has been featured in several films thanks to its preserved historical buildings and rustic ambiance.   9. Jamestown The Jamestown Hotel in Jamestown, California. Source: Wikimedia Commons   This historic Gold Rush town is located along the Highway 108/49 corridor in California’s Tuolumne County. Jamestown was one of the earliest settlements established after gold was discovered nearby at Woods Creek. This was in 1848. The Californian ghost town retains much of its Old West charm, with several original buildings dating back to the 1870s and 1880s. If you want to experience California’s Gold Country, then Jamestown should definitely be on your bucket list.   One of the most notable historical sites to visit in town is the Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. It’s known as “The Movie Railroad.” This landmark features the Historic Jamestown Shops and Roundhouse, where vintage steam locomotives are still maintained and repaired. Visitors can take guided tours here or ride the historic trains. The park’s locomotives have appeared in over 200 films, including “Back to the Future Part III” and “High Noon.”   Don’t forget to visit the historic Jamestown downtown, where you can see antique shops, restaurants, and local inns that offer you a glimpse into life during the Gold Rush era.   10. Amboy Roy’s motel and cafe in Amboy, California. Source: Flickr   You can find this small Californian ghost town along historic Route 66 in the Mojave Desert. It was originally founded in 1858 as a mining camp and became a significant stop in 1883 when it was established as the first in a series of alphabetical railroad solutions built across the Mojave Desert by the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad. Amboy reached its peak in the mid-20th century. It was all thanks to the rise of automobile travel along Route 66. During this period, the town was home to several businesses, such as cafes, motor courts, service stations, and a school.   The first iconic landmark you need to see when visiting Amboy is the Roy’s Motel and Café. This Route 66 fixture was opened in 1938. It served as a much-needed rest stop for travelers crossing the arid desert. Known for its distinct 1950s Googie-style neon sign, Roy’s became a symbol of Route 66’s heyday. Despite the fact that Amboy saw a decline after the Interstate Highway System was constructed, Roy’s has been preserved and restored by Albert Okura. The latter bought the town in 2005 and wants to revitalize it.

  Although Canadian Thanksgiving shares some similarities with its American counterpart, its origins, historical development, and the cultural practices surrounding it make the day a distinct and unique tradition. Initially celebrated on various dates from April to November, the date of Canadian Thanksgiving was officially set to the second Monday of October by a proclamation of parliament in 1957.    The decision was made to distinguish the celebrations from the solemn observance of Remembrance Day in November. The earlier date also reflects Canada’s generally cooler climate and earlier harvest, aligning Thanksgiving with the end of the agricultural season.   When Was the Earliest Thanksgiving in Canada? Commemorative stamp issued in 1963 representing English arctic explorer and privateer Martin Frobisher, Source: Wikimedia Commons   While Thanksgiving in the United States is famously linked to the 1621 harvest feast shared between English Pilgrim colonists and the Wampanoag people of Plymouth, Massachusetts, Canadian Thanksgiving also has early roots in the colonial period.    According to some historians, the earliest celebration in Canada is attributed to Sir Martin Frobisher, an English privateer, who, in 1578, participated in a feast of thanksgiving with his crew in present-day Nunavut (Newfoundland) to celebrate their safe passage to the New World.    Another Thanksgiving-like event in Canada occurred in 1614 when French colonists, led by Samuel de Champlain, instituted a series of feats known as the “Order of Good Cheer” to celebrate the survival of early French settlers (owing to assistance from Indigenous people) after being trapped by the winter ice on the island of Île-Ste-Croix in the Bay of Fundy.    In both cases, the roots of the modern tradition of Thanksgiving emerged in Canada some decades before the historic gathering of pilgrims in Plymouth, Massachusetts.    When Was Canadian Thanksgiving Standardized? A Thanksgiving service, attended by Canadian troops, in Cambrai Cathedral, France, 1918, Source: Wikimedia Commons   After the fall of New France to Britain in 1763, sporadic thanksgivings were held in what is now modern Canada. Especially following the termination of the 1812 War between France, the United States, and Great Britain and above all, after Lower and Upper Canada were merged into the United Province of Canada in 1841.    The first official Thanksgiving day in Canada on record came after confederation on April 15 1872 to celebrate the recovery of the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) from a serious illness. By 1879, Thanksgiving was declared an official Canadian national holiday, though its precise date shifted between November and October for years to come.    Armistice Day ceremony in Dominion Square, Montreal, Canada, 1937, Source: Wikimedia Commons   Critically, from 1921 to 1930, Canadian Thanksgiving was celebrated alongside Armistice Day. After 1919, Armistice Day – now known as Remembrance Day – was inaugurated across the British Empire to mark the end of hostilities during the First World War.    In 1921, the Canadian parliament passed the Armistice Day Bill to observe the commemorations – alongside Thanksgiving – on the first Monday of the week of November 11th. To separate and better distinguish between the two holidays, in 1957, Canadian Thanksgiving was moved by proclamation of parliament to the second Monday of October.    What Are Canadian Thanksgiving Traditions Today? Traditional Thanksgiving foods which center around turkey. Source: Oliver & Bonacini   Though in Canada Thanksgiving is a relatively low-key affair and less commercialized than in the United States, it remains a cherished national holiday, marked by family gatherings, the observance of national sports, and Thanksgiving Day parades.    Generally, the traditional Canadian Thanksgiving meal resembles its American counterpart, with its famous spread of roast turkey served with stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetables, and cranberry sauce. For dessert, spicy pumpkin pie, topped with whipped cream is common, as are sweet butter tarts, Nanaimo bars, and apple pie.    Traditional Thanksgiving foods which center around turkey. Source: Oliver & Bonacini Regional traditions also play an important role. For instance, in Newfoundland, many families share what is known as a “Jiggs Dinner” consisting of boiled meat and split pea pudding, in a similar style to the original dinner of Salted beef and mushy peas said to have been enjoyed by Martin Frobisher and his fleet in 1578.    In some coastal provinces ham or seafood either complements the turkey or replaces it altogether. By contrast, in the provinces of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick Canadian Thanksgiving is barely observed at all.

  Our Lady of Guadalupe is the name given to a series of apparitions of the Virgin Mary in the territory of New Spain—modern-day Mexico—in 1531. Throughout centuries, Our Lady of Guadalupe has stood as an unwavering pillar in the formation of the Mexican Catholic faith and national identity. Considered the patron saint of Mexico and continental America, Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of the most widely venerated religious icons, celebrated annually in Mexico and the United States on December 12.   The Apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe The Virgin of Guadalupe with the Four Apparitions by Nicolás Enríquez, 1773. Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art   The story of the apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of the most fascinating in the Catholic tradition. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared to Juan Diego, a Nahua convert to Christianity, on December 9, 1531, on Tepeyac Hill. It is said that a sweet voice beckoned Juan Diego, who soon discovered the apparition of the Virgin Mary on the hill. The message from Our Lady of Guadalupe was clear: she requested a shrine to be built on that very spot. When Juan Diego reported the apparition and the Virgin’s request to the bishop Fray Juan de Zumárraga, the latter was skeptical and asked for more evidence from the peasant.   Discouraged, Juan Diego returned to the same spot and had another encounter with Our Lady of Guadalupe, who prompted him to collect roses from the top of the hill. The roses were to serve as evidence of divine intervention since this specific type of rose, originating from southern Spain, was impossible to find anywhere near Tepeyac Hill during the winter. In awe of what he had just witnessed, Juan Diego hurried to the bishop to report the miraculous apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe. When Juan Diego unfurled his tilma, a cloak made of bamboo or other natural material, dozens of roses fell to the ground, revealing yet another miracle: the sacred image of a dark-skinned Virgin imprinted on the fabric. In awe and convinced of the Virgin’s divine apparition, the bishop ordered a church to be built on Tepeyac Hill.   La colegiata de Guadalupe, Luis Coto, 1859. Source: Museo Nacional de Arte, Mexico   The current-day Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe stands on the same spot where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to Juan Diego, now situated in a suburb on the outskirts of modern-day Mexico City. Millions of pilgrims flock to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe annually to make offerings and pray to the Virgin. It is also a chance to get a glimpse of the Virgin’s image imprinted on that piece of fabric in 1531 and, against all odds, remaining intact for 500 years.   Our Lady of Guadalupe’s Predecessor: Tonantzin Virgin of Guadalupe, Patron Saint of Mexico, Salvador Dalí, 1958. Source: Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí   Before the apparition on Tepeyac Hill in 1531 and the subsequent construction of a shrine, the very same spot already held spiritual significance for the indigenous population: it had been a sanctuary dedicated to an Aztec deity, Tonantzin. Tonantzin, a revered figure in Aztec mythology, her name meaning “our sacred mother,” was often referred to as the snake woman and is associated with the mother goddess archetype. Following the apparition of the Virgin to Juan Diego, however, the worship of Tonantzin gradually appears to have given way to the reverence of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Today, the indigenous goddess is often viewed as an incarnation of Our Lady of Guadalupe.   Notably, the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared to Juan Diego at the peak of the evangelizing efforts implemented by the Spanish monarchy in colonial Mexico. The revelation of the Virgin of Guadalupe before an indigenous peasant coincided with the proliferation of baroque arts in the Spanish colonies. The Baroque, rich in artistic imagery and hybridization of cultural imaginaries, served as a favorable space for communicating the Catholic message through the power of images. Since local populations did not speak Spanish, the image came to serve as a tool for disseminating the Catholic faith, and the Spanish Monarchy used it to the fullest during the Baroque era. Not coincidentally, the image of a dark-skinned Virgin Mary stands as one of the most iconic representations of the Baroque era and a testament to the formation of new colonial identities.   The image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, displayed at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. Source: National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM)   However, while many indigenous were converting to Christianity, complete evangelization proved to be an unsuccessful endeavor for Catholic authorities. As colonial Mexico was undergoing Christianization and new, hybrid spiritualities were emerging, a question arose: were indigenous peoples actually going to Tepeyac Hill to worship Our Lady of Guadalupe—or Tonantzin? Many scholars hold the view that indigenous populations continued practicing the worship of Tonantzin in an act of resistance to Spanish colonization.   There are no definitive answers regarding the connection between Spain’s evangelizing efforts and the apparition of the Virgin of Guadalupe on a site dedicated to an Aztec deity. Today, however, Mexico honors religious diversity and the presence of spiritual syncretism and hybrid belief systems across all of Latin America is an undeniable fact.   The Enigmatic Image of Our Lady of Guadalupe The image of Our Lady of Guadalupe imprinted on Juan Diego’s tilma, 1531. Source: Open Edition Journals   The image of Our Lady of Guadalupe holds mysteries that have intrigued historians and scholars for centuries. The longevity of the fabric it was imprinted on, for instance, has sparked debates and speculation for years.   In recent years, a group of researchers from Cornell University investigated the material of the tilma and rebuked claims that the image was painted on a material from Europe, namely cotton or linen, instead suggesting that the tilma “seems to have been woven from hemp, a plant native to Mexico.” Materials from hemp are known to last for hundreds of years due to their strong fiber composition, which provides further insight into the tilma’s durability.   The eyes of the Virgin in the image have presented another mystery that researchers have struggled to understand. A microscopic study has revealed what appear to be images of human beings within the eyes of the Virgin. These images have puzzled digital engineers, art historians, and scientists alike. What secrets do the eyes of the Virgin hold? A scientific explanation for the images remains elusive. Skeptics, however, hold that these so-called images are simply the result of viewers’ overactive imaginations.   Guadalupe’s Influence and Legacy Parade of the Virgin of Guadalupe by Emiliano Zapata’s followers, 1914. Source: Fordham University   The cultural hybridity and religious syncretism embodied in the Virgin have been strong factors in forming collective identities. Recognizing the powerful impact that the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe has had on the formation of Mexican national identity, political actors, revolutionaries, and religious leaders alike have utilized the symbolism of the Virgin during key moments that dramatically changed the course of history.   The figure of Our Lady of Guadalupe stood at the forefront of the Mexican War of Independence between the country’s patriot forces and the Spanish colonial government—an armed conflict that lasted from 1810 to 1821, eventually resulting in Mexico’s independence from the Spanish Empire. On September 16, 1810, a day now celebrated as Mexico’s Independence Day, Catholic priest Father Miguel Hidalgo launched an independence campaign proclaiming: “Death to the Spaniards and long live the Virgin of Guadalupe.” The image of Guadalupe decorated the flags, banners, and sombreros of the rebels. Even though the image of the Virgin had already been elevated to the status of a national symbol of Mexico, it was during the Mexican War of Independence that the Virgin of Guadalupe was truly transformed into the patron saint of Mexico.   Nearly a century later, revolutionary leader Emilio Zapata would utilize the image of Guadalupe during the Mexican Revolution when he marched into Mexico City with his peasant rebels in 1914, holding up a banner with the image of the Virgin as a telling symbol for the fight for social justice and land.   The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims arrived at the Basilica of Guadalupe, 2022. Photo by Isaac Esquivel. Source: Al Jazeera   From colonial times to the War of Independence, the Mexican Revolution, and into modern-day struggles, the figure of Guadalupe continues to be a symbol of cultural identity and a source of pride for Mexicans. The symbolism of the dark-skinned Virgin, embodying Mexico’s cultural and racial diversity, conveys a message of empowerment to marginalized communities and their fight for social justice.   A symbol of hope, faith, and resilience, Our Lady of Guadalupe is celebrated every year on December 12th in Mexico and beyond its borders, with celebrations also taking place across the United States. On that day, millions of pilgrims travel to Mexico City to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe and honor the Virgin at the renowned Basilica, a display of adoration unequal to any other deity in the region, past or present.

Hey, I’m trying out a whole new News format and system. We are getting a hang of it, and I’m negotiating with the Web Team to deal with the Homepage. Someone said something about a meeting next Thursday the 17th. Don’t they know I produce the News on Thursdays? What’s the agenda? What will be accomplished between now and next Thursday? Yikes. Let’s see what happens next. This process has taken almost a year now. Sometimes they comment about 16,000 articles are being moved. Recently there’s rumors that something may have been lost. We are living in strange times. I had a meeting with the lovely mayor of Sturgis. She’s being impeached. Half the staff resigned and turmoil abounds. Talk about mayhem, check our government. The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum has issues, so it’s no wonder Bikernet doesn’t share in the confusion. Ah, but we will survive and ultimately be better than ever… The News was provided by the Bikernet Team including the Wayfarer, the Redhead, Bob T. Sam Burns, 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: Cycle Source Magazine, the MRF, Iron Trader News, ChopperTown, BorntoRide.com and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum. 40th Anniversary MOTORCYCLE RIDERS FOUNDATION Recap The last weekend in September, Freedom of Road Riders hosted the 40th Annual Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) Meeting of the Minds, in St. Louis, Missouri. This annual event allows motorcyclists’ rights advocates the chance to share the legislative accomplishments of their states, shape the MRF’s federal legislative agenda and learn from leaders in the movement about how to be effective voices for motorcyclists. As Fred Harrell, MRF Director of Conferences and Events stated at the event opening, “We are getting better with age, as we embrace the future.” Part of that history and forward vision is a growing belief that building and maintaining partnerships across the motorcycling community is vital.  An impressive number of groups were represented at the conference, including 40 state motorcyclist rights organizations, the American Motorcyclist Association, Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the Independent Motorcycle Aftermarket, the National Coalition of Motorcyclists, the National Council of Clubs, the National Council of Informed Riders, the Specialty Equipment Market Association, and hundreds of freedom fighters who all have a shared passion for defending our lifestyle.  These partners participated in developing and strengthening our federal legislative agenda for 2025. This agenda ensures that we are fighting for the priorities that matter to you in Washington, D.C. The MRF has come a long way in 40 years! What started in a crowded hotel room has become a powerful force in our nation’s capital. Nothing demonstrates that more than a message sent to the MRF from Congressman Tim Walberg of Michigan.  “As a lifelong motorcyclist and the Co-Chair of the House Motorcycle Caucus, I am glad to see so many bikers engaged in the political process. Millions of Americans share my passion for motorcycling and events like Meeting of the Minds educates bikers on how best to protect our motorcycling lifestyle and heritage.” (link to Congressional Record below) Thank you to the Missouri Freedom of Road Riders for hosting this year’s event and to the Missouri Council of Clubs and Soldiers for Jesus Motorcycle Club for providing extra resources. Finally, thank you to the hundreds of bikers who journeyed to St. Louis. –MRFLet’s keep fighting!We look forward to seeing you next year in Shreveport, Louisiana, for the 41st Meeting of the Minds! New Bikernet Reader Comment! THE BANANAS BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for September 26th 2024 https://www.bikernet.com/pages/THE_BANANAS_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_September_26th_2024.aspx The Porsche six-stroke is fascinating. I found this on the web. I have no connection with this person. I am sending it for your information. At 19 minutes, he discusses why this would be developed. I would love to hear this thing at speed.— Paul Henderson, NV Peace, Harmony, and Unity Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” Have you ever heard two voices sing together in perfect harmony, blending so seamlessly that they sound like one? I’m often reminded of this when I watch shows like The Voice and American Idol, where the incredible talents of these Divinely gifted individuals create such beautiful music. One thing I’ve noticed is that as the show progresses, the contestants who remain seem to become more at peace with themselves. As they trust their coaches, the band, and their own abilities, the experience shifts from a competition to a concert, where unity and harmony blossom. These performers, already talented, only truly shine when they harmonize with others, revealing their full potential. This same principle applies to life. Many of us forget that we have a constant source of support—Spirit—waiting for us to align in harmony and unity. Each day, we can take a few moments to close our eyes, connect with the Divine within, and feel the peace that comes from knowing we are One with a higher power. When we choose to unite with Spirit, life transforms. Like the performers on those shows, we gain confidence and discover new paths, trusting that we are Divinely guided, guarded, and supplied. In this place of unity, we unlock a deeper level of peace and harmony, allowing our unique music to flow. Sadly, many people never reach this place, dying with their music still inside them. But I know that each day, I have the opportunity to live, to be, to do, and to experience more of life’s fullness. Harmony surrounds us in every facet of life. It’s present in nature, in the homes we live in, the cars we drive, and even our own bodies. Consider the harmony that must occur to build a car—from mining steel, to creating glass, to constructing roads and bridges. There’s so much harmony in every manifestation of our world. Today, know this: As I begin my day, I take a few moments to notice the amazing harmony of life. I realize how much has come together to create the world around me. Today is an opportunity to find peace, harmony, and unity in my own life. I am One with the Source of all life, and I take a moment to close my eyes and recognize the peace and harmony within my world. I refuse to let anyone or anything pull me from this path. Today, I will let my music flow, and I am deeply grateful for the peace and harmony that fills my day. And so it is.Namaste. When we unify with Spirit in harmony, we are blessed with peace in our lives.—Yale NEW, WAIT, OLD FROM MIKUNI– Here’s something to get excited about! Mikuni HSR42 for Shovels & IH Sporties ~These kits cannot be sold into the State of California~1 kit fits all Shovel models(1041-0055)Assemble in the United States1 kit fits Ironhead XL models(1041-0056)–BEN KUDON, AMERICAN PRIME S&S CYCLE ANNOUNCES HOWARD KELLY RETURNS S&S is excited to announce Howard Kelly has returned to the company as the Senior Director of Marketing. Kelly steps back into the marketing department at S&S Cycle from MiTek, a Berkshire Hathaway Company, where he spent the last six and a half years serving the commercial construction industry in the USA, EU and APAC markets. Kelly was last with S&S from 2004 – 2009 working on marketing and communications efforts leading up to the S&S 50th Anniversary and a series of engine service manuals. Post S&S Kelly gained valuable experience in the industrial air conditioning world, heading up an advertising agency that supported a major vehicle OEM, and leading an apparel line in a niche market that went from a napkin sketch to a brand distributed across the US. “We are excited to have Howard back home at S&S Cycle,” said Mark Platt, S&S Board Chair. “Howard brings uniquely valuable experience, passion, and excitement to the S&S Team and he for our customers, keeping them at the center of everything we do.” Now back at S&S Cycle, Kelly will drive marketing efforts across the globe bringing awareness to the Proven Performance line of parts and engines the company is known for. “I left S&S saying I wanted a break from the powersports industry, during a season when worldwide economic pressure was impacting our industry’s spirit and comradery”, said Kelly. “With the next few projects we have lined up, I hope to see that come back. I must thank S&S Board Members Brett Smith and Mark Platt for showing me what I was missing and encouraging me to get backto my real passion.” Kelly’s return to S&S Cycle, along with other recent organizational changes, further bolsters the company plans to continue its legacy of creating industry leading marketing programs for insiders and customers. New products and core products that have driven the success seen over the last six decades will get plenty of attention and there may just be a few events that remind the industry just how much reach S&S brings. With Kelly back, the S&S Cycle marketing team will be focused on delivering the ultimate customer experience in the Powersports Industry through Proven Performance. New Bikernet Reader Comment! 24th Annual Twisted Nipple Races https://www.bikernet.com/pages/24th_Annual_Twisted_Nipple_Races.aspx Great article and great to see Fred. It’s been a long time.  I’ll have to try and make it there sometime. — Larry RuttDeltona, FL Kick off October at the H-D Museum with a party for pups and build up to Skulloween at the end of the month with tricks and treats from MOTOR® Bar & RestaurantPlus, celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month by checking out the H-D Museum’s first bilingual exhibit before it hits the road. Yes, MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant has one of the city’s most welcoming patios for four-legged friends – complete with H-D-branded puppy treats. And it gets pawsitively better when Oct. 5 sees the return of one of Fido’s favorite days of the year. That’s when Bark & BBQ comes back to the Harley-Davidson Museum campus. OnMilwaukee and Milwaukee Radio Alliance’s B93.3 are ready to “raise the woof” at the 2024 Bark & BBQ. The fun takes place noon to 4 p.m. on the Harley-Davidson Museum® campus, where parking is always plentiful and free. This is a free event where the first 93.3 (!?) guests receive a Stella & Chewy’s goodie bag. More than 30 vendor booths and food trucks with loads of treats will be on site along with shopping and dog-related services. Plus, loads of activities to entertain and engage the pups. Check out the VIB (Very Important Barker) tickets, which feature early entry, two drinks at MOTOR, an appetizer buffet on that MOTOR patio, H-D Museum admission and more! Visit the H-D® Shop tent for dog toys, bandanas and more that will have pups looking fetching. Come on down and come over to “the bark side.” Speaking of MOTOR, the kitchen is leaning into the spooky season with its October specials. If you dare, check out the Sticky “Bat” Wings (chicken wings with a midnight hoisin sauce), Witches Brew Soup, Don’t Fear the Reaper Chicken Sandwich and a Pumpkin King Cheesecake. Eat, drink and be scary! Specials begin Tuesday, Oct. 1, and are available all month long. MOTOR will also be the spot for Skulloween 2024, where everything black and orange will be celebrated on Halloween (Oct. 31). Your creative costume could earn you a $250 H-D Museum™ campus gift card and BiG SWiG will be providing the soundtrack that will put a spell on you. Finally, it’s your last chance to check out the H-D Museum’s first bilingual exhibit, “My Papi Has a Motorcycle” / “Mi Papi Tiene una Moto,” before it closes on Nov. 3. Take one last trip with author Isabel Quintero and illustrator Zeke Peña and share in the freedom and fun parents and their kids find when they take to two wheels. PROGRAMMING / EVENTS Bark & BBQ, Oct. 5, noon – 4 p.m. Bark & BBQ, a collaboration with Milwaukee Radio Alliance’s B93.3. Bark & BBQ returns Saturday, Oct. 5 from noon-4pm on the Harley-Davidson Museum® campus. Bark & BBQ Presented by Camp Bow Wow and Bentley’s Pet Stuff, features over 30 vendor booths with loads of treats, shopping and dog-related services. Activities include: The SwiftPaws Lure Course, Camp Bow Wow Ball Pits, Ralphie’s Off-Leash Area, Bark N Scratch Outpost Photo Booth with Brew City Events, Hydration Stations throughout the event courtesy of NutriSource Pet Food, Bacon Flavored Bubbles with Yutka Fence, Peanut Butter Station with State Farm Agent Adam Chamorro, Flyball Demonstrations throughout the day courtesy of The Barkbarians and K-9 Turn and Burn, BBQ food trucks and more! Skulloween, Oct. 31, 5 – 9 p.m. Head on down to one of Milwaukee’s most popular haunts, MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant, for a celebration of all things black and orange at Skulloween, powered by Budweiser® & Bulleit® Bourbon. Those who dress to impress will have a chance to win bragging rights in the H-D Museum’s costume contest. The outfit with the most votes at the end of the night will win a $250 Harley-Davidson Museum® Campus gift card! In the meantime, check out MOTOR’s spooktacular food and drink specials, giveaways, outdoor fire pits, carved pumpkins, live music by BiG SWiG and more as we celebrate the season. Don’t forget to check out the Harley-Davidson® Shop & Factory Outlet, which will be open until 9 p.m. Factory Tours Harley-Davidson Factory Tours in Wisconsin are back and better than ever! Guests are invited to “Walk the Line” and enjoy an all-new guided tour of the Powertrain Operations factory in Menomonee Falls, Wis. This tour takes place on the actual factory floor. The sights and sounds of the manufacturing of H-D® engines and transmissions is an experience like no other. This is a walking tour lasting about one hour. Safety googles and vests are provided. Fully enclosed walking shoes are required (1-inch heels max). Our highly rated ‘Engines 101” Class is also back in session! Tours and classes are offered on Mondays and Thursdays (excluding major holidays). Advance reservations are required. Visit the Harley-Davidson Museum Web Store to make yours. Private group reservations may be accommodated; call 414-287-2789 for more information or reach out to us at groups@h-dmuseum.com. MUST-SEE EXHIBITS AND INSTALLATIONS “Creating a Legend: Art & Engineering at Harley-Davidson” (now open) At Harley-Davidson, design and engineering work together to create machines with big emotional impact. Functional improvements fuel changes in look and feel, yet visual or market desires also shape operating innovations. The process of how ideas move from concept to prototype, and production involves a lot of people and many kinds of materials. From pencil and paper to CAD, clay, and 3-D printing, see how Harley-Davidson design and engineering teams have envisioned iconic products for over 120 years. You can also take the opportunity to create your own masterpiece with sketch paper and hang your artwork in the H-D Museum. “My Papi Has a Motorcycle” / “Mi Papi Tiene una Moto” (closing Nov. 3) From award-winning children and YA author Isabel Quintero and illustrator Zeke Peña comes the Harley-Davidson Museum’s first-ever bilingual exhibit, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” / “Mi papi tiene una moto.” Based on the beloved children’s book of the same name, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” shares a story of family bonds strengthened by the simple act of taking a joy ride on a two-wheeled machine. With brilliant, colorful art from Peña paired with heart-warming stories from Southern Californian riding families, “My Papi has a Motorcycle” will draw smiles from kids of all ages. It’s an exhibit that focuses not only on where you can take a motorcycle, but where a two-up motorcycle ride with a loved one can take you. Google Arts & Culture For over 100 years, Harley-Davidson has created strong bonds with those who fight for our freedom. In the Harley-Davidson Museum’s latest Google Arts & Culture exhibit, read through a brief look at how the Harley-Davidson Motor Company, employees and riders contributed to the defense effort during World War II. Then make your plans to visit the Harley-Davidson Museum and experience the gallery dedicated to World War II, including the famed WLA, “the bike that won the war.” Harley-Davidson® Shop Sweatshirt season is here! Get ready for the cooler temperatures with these new thick and soft additions – including green & gold gear. Plus, check out all the toys, water bowls and bottles, bandanas and more now stocked in the H-D® Shop (and set up outside for Bark & BBQ on Oct. 5). MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant October specials Sticky “Bat” WingsSmoked & seasoned chicken wings served with a midnight hoisin chokeberry glaze. Served with carrot and celery sticks.Witch’s Brew SoupCreamy, autumn harvest of pumpkin, butternut squash and apples with beet bacon and topped with spiced pepitas.Don’t Fear the Reaper Chicken SandwichSpicy, breaded chicken breast, Carolina Reaper honey, spicy pickles, lettuce, tomatoes and Pepper Jack cheese on a Breadsmith cheddar-peppercorn bun. Served with a side of french fries.Pumpkin King CheesecakePumpkin and cranberry swirled cheesecake with cinnamon ginger graham crust, cranberry sauce and a jack-o’-lantern deco. Save the Dates:Veterans Day Appreciation Weekend, Nov. 9 – 11New exhibit, “Ezy Ryders,” opens, Nov. 23Breakfasts with Santa, Dec. 1, 8 & 15H-D Homecoming™ festival, July 10 – 13, 2025 EV Charging Network Shuts Off Support With Almost No Warning With infrastructure trust issues, companies behaving this way is a reason why EV, economy and environment fails So everyone would like to believe in fairies, elves, mad-hatter, unicorns and EVs. But the Silicon Valley Unicorns–the Tech Startups raising millions and then valuing themselves in billions have really just pig poop to offer so far to paying customers and the government doling them subsidy and tax-free benefits. It’s “hopping mad” to borrow a phrase. EV motorbikes with nothing more than a limited-range runabout, they’re hard to justify as all-rounders in 2024. Shell bought Volta and many had a broken app loop with no way to charge, at a station they had previously used for charging with no issues. That’s what happened to Enel X Way and its US and Canadian customers. Some publications have written that Enel X has exited the North American market. Since Mexico still shows active charging stations, and since Enel X’s announcement specifically only calls out an exit of the US and Canadian markets, that’s clearly not the case. Enel X Way North America announced its impending closure in the US and Canada on October 4. Rather than give much in the way of warning, it said this closure would be effective on October 11. So wonderful environmentalists, that’s one week’s notice. Now your EV is a display for your backyard and more toxic garbage for Mother Earth, the One Planet. If you are unfamiliar with Enel X Way’s JuiceBox EV chargers, there are two streams: one that consumers can purchase for home use, through regular retailers like Home Depot or Amazon. There are also commercial chargers. That’s what you get when you rush into shit as if it’s gold–the Fool card in Tarot. All that glitters now is Wall-Street pre-Christmas bonuses. No Thanks and Disregard,Wayfarer BREAKING NEWS SEMA Applauds Newsom Veto of SB 961 The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) applauds California Gov. Gavin Newsom for his decision to veto Senate Bill 961 (Wiener), a bill that would have fragmented national vehicle safety policies by mandating a state-level standard that could have conflicted with ongoing federal safety efforts and preempted national vehicle safety regulations. Under SB 961, certain new vehicles sold in California would have been required to come equipped with a passive speed notification system. SEMA, representing over 7,000 primarily small businesses nationwide, including over 1,500 in California, had expressed serious concerns about SB 961, citing its potential to disrupt the well-established federal regulatory framework governed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). –SEMA New Bikernet Reader Comment! WIRE PLUS Wiring System for the Bikernet/Cycle Source 15th Sweeps Bike https://www.bikernet.com/pages/WIRE_PLUS_Wiring_System_for_the_BikernetCycle_Source_15th_Sweeps_Bike.aspx I have problem to start a 2004 American iron horse after install the twin tec tc88a-ih ignition. I change the harness connector to install the new module but i saw after that is not fire in the spark plugs i follow the troubleshooting and found that the bike start again using a jumper wired from the positive of the battery and one of the + coil conector and the spark start working back so said that i have to change the RHC ( relay harness controller ) and said that www.wire-plus.com has it. — Joann sebastian Loaiza bonfante Joannsebas@gmail.comMamaroneck, NY Hey, like I tell everyone. Wire Plus is out of business. Check with the guys at NAMZ. They cornered the wiring market, and I’m sure they can help. –Bandit BANDIT’S 5-BALL EMPORIUM NEWS FOR THE WEEK– Hang on. I interviewed Robin of Black Hills Rally and Gold for an article for the museum in March. She commented to me something like, “Surviving the winters is tough on every business in downtown. That stuck with me like a bruise that wouldn’t go away. We are fortunate to be able to offer some of our products on line, on the Facebook Marketplace, in the Bikernet Shopify Shop and I suppose on social media. Hell I don’t know. But I do know that I will offer two items a week in the Bikernet News and on our Shopify shop. Here’s the first two from Buck Lovell, via his wife Tracy who works in Scott Jacob’s Gallery in Deadwood. With Tim Remus of Wolfgang Publishing, Buck created this Motorcycle Cop History Book. It’s amazing, historic and full of images all the way back to 1910. You can order this book here for a mere $35.00 plus shipping. The first motorized cops scared the shit out of horses on seriously rough rural roads. The bikes were basically bicycles with single cylinder engines stuffed in them. He covers the history of motor officers all the way up to the eras of FXRPs in the ’90. It’s a cool read! Second is this Buck Lovell Custom Panhead Poster above, which could make a cool Xmas gift for any motorcycle kid. We will sell these and ship them to you for small change. Watch for them next week in the shop. I’m about to post a feature on Charlie’s ’51 Panhead currently in the shop. It’s a complete restoration of a Classic Panhead and a daily rider. We have it for sale in Bandit’s Emporium for $45,900 and we can have it shipped anywhere in the country for about $1200. Let us know if you’re interested. Charley also has a sister ship ’55 Panhead in gloss black. It’s also for sale. I’m working on a street sign, so folk know we’re open. Had to use motorcycle parts, right? Quick Signs in Spearfish are handling the graphics. With Danial James help. –Bandit Team USA Takes Shape A trio of top-flight motocross racers will represent the United States at the 2024 Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) Motocross of Nations, which will be held Oct. 4-6 at Matterley Basin in Winchester, U.K. Team USA has recovered nicely after a pair of injuries held out original team members Chase Sexton and Chance Hymas. Joining Open Class rider Aaron Plessinger on the team will be Eli Tomac (MXGP Class) and Cooper Webb (MX2 Class). The United States will once again be led by motocross legend and team manager Roger DeCoster, who competed on six victorious FIM Motocross of Nations teams during the 1960s and 70s. Since his retirement from racing, DeCoster has remained an integral part of the sport as a team manager for several AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross teams. DeCoster has led the United States to 21 FIM Motocross of Nations team victories. –AMA UPDATE FROM THE WAYFARER—Team Australia wins the Motocross of Nations for first time in 2024; Team USA came in second With an MX2 and Open race win, Jett Lawrence, Hunter Lawrence, and Kyle Webster scored the overall win for Team Australia in the 2024 Motocross of Nations (MXoN). This is the first MXoN victory for Australia after coming close in 2022 with a third-place result and a runner-up finish last year. Team Australia tallied to 26 points in Olympic-style scoring, narrowly beating Team USA at 29. Leading the charge for the American team was Eli Tomac and he secured a second- and third-place finishes in his two races. Aaron Plessinger swept the top 10 in his two races, and Cooper Webb scored ninth in one of his pair of motos. Third place on the podium went to The Netherlands through Jeffrey Herlings, Kay de Wolf, and Glenn Coldenhoff. Nations Results PODIUMRiderPointsRaceClassBike1Australia26Jett Lawrence1Race 2 (MX2 + Open)OpenHondaJett Lawrence2Race 3 (MXGP + Open)OpenHondaHunter Lawrence4Race 3 (MXGP + Open)MXGPHondaHunter Lawrence8Race 1 (MXGP + MX2)MXGPHondaKyle Webster11Race 1 (MXGP + MX2)MX2HondaKyle Webster19Race 2 (MX2 + Open)MX2Honda2United States29Eli Tomac2Race 1 (MXGP + MX2)MXGPYamahaEli Tomac3Race 3 (MXGP + Open)MXGPYamahaAaron Plessinger7Race 2 (MX2 + Open)OpenKTMAaron Plessinger8Race 3 (MXGP + Open)OpenKTMCooper Webb9Race 2 (MX2 + Open)MX2YamahaCooper Webb17Race 1 (MXGP + MX2)MX2Yamaha3The Netherlands36Jeffrey Herlings5Race 1 (MXGP + MX2)MXGPKTMKay de Wolf5Race 2 (MX2 + Open)MX2HusqvarnaJeffrey Herlings5Race 3 (MXGP + Open)MXGPKTMKay de Wolf6Race 1 (MXGP + MX2)MX2HusqvarnaGlenn Coldenhoff15Race 3 (MXGP + Open)OpenFanticGlenn Coldenhoff18Race 2 (MX2 + Open)OpenFantic QUICK, New Bikernet Reader Comment! THE BANANAS BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for September 26th 2024 https://www.bikernet.com/pages/THE_BANANAS_BIKERNET_WEEKLY_NEWS_for_September_26th_2024.aspx I would like too see more on that 51 panhead? about the HA whiskey, where can I get it? — AJDeland, FL “Hey, see above about the ’51 Panhead. I’m working on the Whiskey for you. The member got hitched. He’s on his honeymoon.“–-Bandit QUOTE OF THE WEEK “Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities, no doubt, crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it well and serenely.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson HORSES FOR HEALTH Dennis Quaid, Darci Lynne, The Imaginaries, Lexie Hayden and more are uniting to support Horses For Mental Health and raise awareness for mental health programs by incorporating horses during Mental Illness Awareness Week Oct. 6-12. Horses For Mental Health (HMH) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit advocacy organization harnessing the transformative power of the horse-human connection to revolutionize mental well-being. This significant fundraising effort addresses the urgent need for mental health support in the U.S., where 1 in 5 individuals will experience mental illness each year (NAMI), 132 people die by suicide each day (CDC), and depression is the number one disability worldwide (WHO). Despite the prevalence, only 46% of adults receive treatment (SAMHSA), emphasizing the critical need for accessible mental health resources in communities across the U.S. HMH is at the forefront of this critical conversation, leveraging the unique bond between humans and horses to create powerful experiences and lasting positive change for individuals and communities. Equine enthusiasts amplifying HMH’s trailblazing mission include Emmy Award-winning actor and Golden Globe nominee Dennis Quaid, singer, songwriter and ventriloquist Darci Lynne (“America’s Got Talent” Winner), husband-and-wife duo Maggie McClure and Shane Henry of The Imaginaries and singer-songwriter Lexie Hayden. They join an incredible list of award-winning; musical icons, actors, journalists, and athletes who believe in the healing power of horses and proudly advocate for this campaign. “Horses are imperative to helping those heal from all the pressures we face, especially when it comes to mental health. I’m proud to support Horses For Mental Health in their mission to support everyone, especially U.S. service men and women,” says actor and singer-songwriter Dennis Quaid, recently starring alongside horses while portraying Ronald Reagan in “Reagan” the movie (2024). “Same could apply to motorcycles.” –Bandit Gogoro Seems To Be In Some Serious Trouble The future of Gogoro ultimately remains very murky. The company’s rapid growth and revolutionary battery-swapping infrastructure changed the e-mobility landscape in many countries all over the world. Gogoro’s been going through quite a rough patch lately, as it faces some financial issues, legal problems, and internal difficulties. Gogoro’s founder and CEO Horace Luke stepped down from his position last month, sending shockwaves throughout the e-mobility industry. This is attributed to financial performance of the company but its speculated that there is a fraud related scandal involving government subsidies in Taiwan. Gogoro claims that it manufactures its electric two-wheelers—particularly the Viva model—in Taiwan, with domestically sourced parts and components. As such, the company is entitled to monetary subsidies from the Taiwanese government. However, allegations arose that the company was in fact making use of Chinese-made components, all while claiming that its parts were of domestic origin. Gogoro’s reputation understandably took a hit. The company’s stock price dropped by 92% from $14.02 USD in 2022 down to just $1.05 USD—a clear sign that investors and key stakeholders in the company have lost confidence in Gogoro. To make things even worse, it was reported that Gogoro’s losses inflated all the way to $20.1 million in the second quarter of 2024—up more than three times that of the same period in 2023. It is further reported that there might be insufficient evidence to prosecute the company and that their models will be comprehensively reviewed by the government administratives. Gogoro stock has since then moved out of the rock-bottom into better numbers. Gogoro may just be another EV startup that dies before it reaches the destination–just like an EV— and leaves a mess of furious customers, toxic waste, investor losses, governance awareness and technological distrust. —Wayfarer DIRECT FROM THE ELON MUSK INTERVIEW MUSK: “There’s no point in criticizing Kamala Harris, she’s simply the face of a much larger machine. She’ll say whatever is on the teleprompter. She’ll get stuck if the teleprompter breaks…it’s whoever controls the teleprompter who is in charge.” TUCKER: “Who is that?” MUSK: “It’s not any one mastermind. Kamala is a sort of marionette with somewhere north of 100 (handlers)” TUCKER: “I bet you know 80 of them.” MUSK: “I probably know most of them. –TCN IIHS Studies Distracted Driving The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) released details of a recent study on driver behavior when using vehicles with levels of automation. The study, done in partnership with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology AgeLab, should raise the eyebrows of those charged with establishing rules for this new technology (study linked below). This initial statement from the IIHS encapsulates what many have witnessed on the road, “Drivers are more likely to multitask when using partial automation, and some manage to do so even while playing by the rules of the system’s attention requirements.” The study points to how some drivers have “mastered” the ability to prevent warnings of inactivity and thus negate the intended safeguards. The analysis included different vehicle types and driver groups, yet in every case, drivers engaged in distracting activities more often when using the technology than while driving without it. These results clearly indicate that drivers have a false sense of security when using automated driving features. Drivers are responsible for their actions when behind the wheel. However, the Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) remains troubled by marketing campaigns and narratives that intentionally or unintentionally create an overconfidence in this technology. The MRF has and will continue to raise these concerns with lawmakers and policymakers in Congress and at the U.S. Department of Transportation. Distracted driving costs lives! If this new technology encourages increased distracted driving, that is unacceptable. The MRF agrees with IIHS Senior Research Scientist Alexandra Mueller, “Better safeguards are needed to ensure that the behavior change actually translates to more attentive driving.” –MRF NEW FROM THE TOWN OF KLOCK– Maybin Rider | Shifter Peg Upgrade your ride with the Klock Werks Maybin Pegs Bundle! These billet aluminum pegs offer a clean, timeless look with knurled surfaces for extra grip. Bundle Options:Rider Pegs (set of two)Shifter Peg (one)Full Bundle (two foot pegs + one shifter/brake peg) NEWS FROM THE TEXAS WEATHERMAN Trying a bar change before Born Free Texas this month, but the genius with the tape measure, that measured the 8” factory bar rise.  And thought Great the 6” straight risers off the now missing red rigid frame & bars with a 2.25” rise equals 8.25”.  Except the 3” below the top clamp he was measuring off of! –RFR DANIAL JAMES FINE ART FILES– He’s been busy, plus got a new dog. Nobody captures an expression like Danial does, even in a dog’s mug. Then he surprised us with this the concept drawing of the Salt Torpedo at Bonneville this year. The next think I knew, he finished this piece, incredible. More and more folks are coming to the Emporium just to look at his fine art from motorcycles, babes, horses and hotrods. –Bandit BIKERNET POLITICAL COMMENTS– I have a couple of friends who seriously dislike Trump. “Don’t even care about Harris. Anybody but Don the Con.” Here’s how I responded in both cases: Sorry to step on your political choice. But to me this election is way more than Trump or Harris. It’s about saving our internal combustion engines. It’s about saving our cities and respecting our first responders. It’s about not having Critical Race theory taught to our children. It’s about saving our 1st Amendment and the 2nd. It’s about stopping Woke, ESG, DEI. It’s about stopping the financial destruction of our country. I could go on all night. There are a group of people trying to destroy our country and in a big part the Western World. We need to step up. Both agreed. –Bandit S&S Piston Cooling Jet Kit— for ’99 – ’16 H-D Big Twin Models Whether you are building a big-inch project or rebuilding your stock Twin Cam, keeping engine components cool is the key to longevity. That’s why we recommend replacing the OEM single-jet design with our new dual-jet oilers, which uniformly cool both sides of the pistons. –S&S Crew JUST IN FROM THE STREETS– 42,000 Road Glides – Street Glides recalled. Electrical Issues. –Bandit WAYFARER ADDS—-Harley Recalls Nearly 42,000 Road Glides, Street Glides That Could Short Out What’s the one thing you don’t want to do with your wiring harness? On September 11 (Wayfarer’s accursed birthday), Harley-Davidson filed a voluntary safety recall report with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for several 2024 Street Glide, CVO Street Glide, Road Glide, CVO Road Glide, and CVO Road Glide ST motorcycles. The issue is a wiring harness routing that could rub against the front corner of the crankcase and could, over time, chafe the wiring insulation away. If this were to occur, the exposed wiring could then cause a short to ground, which could blow the 60-amp main fuse. The bike could lose power and be unable to restart, thus increasing the risk of a crash. Approximately 41,637 total motorcycles could be affected, according to Harley’s records. This represents approximately one percent of the population. Read full story at MSN by clicking here. INTERMOT 2024: comprehensive showcase to launch the season! Experience the latest bikes for the upcoming season live in Cologne From 5 to 8 December 2024, INTERMOT will fling open its gates, kicking off the 2025 motorcycling season in style. In keeping with the motto “Start the 2025 season with the latest models”, INTERMOT will see BMW Motorrad, Honda, Kawasaki, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, SYM, Triumph and Yamaha exhibit their new products for the first time in Germany. Ducati is even going one step further, having announced that it will unveil a world premiere. With all these brands participating, the trade fair is sure to be a highlight for all bike fans. Renowned manufacturers such as Alpha Technik, Insta360, Öhlins, SW-Motech and Wunderlich will be on hand to present a wide range of accessories, from add-on parts, luggage solutions and suspension components to action cams, and showcase everything bikers need for the new season. Altogether, the exhibitors confirmed so far already cover almost 70 per cent of the entire German motorbike market. A new motorcycling experience: innovation, community and lifestyle “We want our visitors to see motorbikes and INTERMOT, too, in a new light. To this end, we want to reimagine motorcycling with a focus on innovation, community and lifestyle as key themes,” says Alexander Wolff, Director of INTERMOT. “What innovation means to us is, above all, the unique opportunity to start the new 2025 season with the latest models, but it also stands for topics such as urban mobility. By bringing together industry experts, fans and creators, the trade fair offers the community dimension that is particularly important in the motorbike segment. They all embody the special attitude to life that motorcycling inspires,”continues INTERMOT’s director. INTERMOT – a world of experiences As well as giving the entire biker community a comprehensive overview of all the new models and product innovations from the exhibiting manufacturers, INTERMOT also delivers a unique live experience. For example, visitors can pick up valuable tips and inspiration for their next adventures on two wheels by attending a range of talks and hearing fellow bikers share personal accounts and insights on a variety of topics. Those who are more interested in motorcycling as a sport won’t want to miss out on the chance to rub shoulders with representatives of the teams racing in series including the International German Motorcycle Championship (IDM) and find out what it takes to be successful in the world of motorsport. True to its motto “Meet and greet the creators”, the Creators Lounge undoubtedly offers the best opportunity to come face to face with well-known influencers and creators from the motorbiking scene. INTERMOT signals the start of the 2025 season for the motorcycling community, making Cologne the ideal location for all bike fans to get a comprehensive overview of all the latest developments. RIDE OR DIE: Fate of Harley-Davidson’s ancestral Scottish home hanging in the balance An urgent fundraiser launched William C. Davidson grew up in the cottage and constructed the shed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where his sons built the first Harley-Davidson motorbike. A campaign is underway to save the ancestral Scottish home of Harley-Davidson. The property, widely known as Davidson Cottage, is close to the village of Aberlemno in Angus. Davidson Legacy Cottage (DLC) is behind efforts to save the cottage from being demolished. The charity set up a GoFundMe page and it is seeking to fundraise £80,000. Nyree Aitken, project coordinator for DLC, hailed the cottage as a “tangible connection” to the renowned motorcycle brand, founded in 1903. She and fellow Harley-Davidson enthusiasts hope to turn the cottage into a space for events, gatherings and workshops. Maggie Sherrit, one of the current owners of the Davidson Cottage, said: “In 2008, shortly after Angus Council’s Cultural Services Department had established its provenance, we heard the property was on the market. By then, it was under offer to a developer and we didn’t want to see it lost, so three of us, myself, Mike Sinclair and Keith Mackintosh, pooled our resources and became the proud owners of an overgrown, derelict cottage. “We were successful in getting some funding through the Scottish Rural Development Plan, which helped us to restore the place. We’ve enjoyed a lot of support from the Davidson family. “The only interest we had was from people wishing to purchase the site for development, so we’re absolutely thrilled that the Davidson Legacy Preservation Group has come forward. We wish them every success in their fund-raising efforts and future endeavours.” Harley-Davidson was founded by William S. Harley, Arthur Davidson, Walter Davidson, and William A. Davidson. PLEASE REFER: https://thedavidsonlegacy.com/ Caring regards,Wayfarer I’M SHUTTING DOWN– I know there’s more, but this new platform is kicking my ass. I know it’s going to be seriously easier as we move forward. But there’s other fish to fry. Bikernet is getting close to 29 years old. Wow, I’m going to have a helluva report to lay on you at the end of the year. I want it to end on a positive note or die trying. Wow, learning this system is a challenge. Make sure you know how and where you are going to vote and let’s Ride Free Forever goddammit……………. —–Bandit The post BAD ASS BIKERNET WEEKLY NEWS for October 10th, 2024 appeared first on Bikernet Blog - Online Biker Magazine.

The truth that's behind your emotions I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. – 1 John 5:13 After the 1912 presidential election, Woodrow Wilson made a trip to visit an aged aunt whom he hadn't seen in a long time. The two sat and talked for a while before she asked, "So what are you doing these days, Woodrow?" "I've just been elected president," Wilson replied.  "That's nice," the aunt replied. "President of what?" "Of the United States," Wilson responded confidently. The aunt gave an impatient laugh, "Don't be silly!" When it comes to what's true, our opinion of the truth has little to do with its truthfulness. You can believe with all your heart that drinking poison will be good for you. But when you take a gulp, the truth will be laid bare no matter what you believed before. This principle is especially applicable when it comes to the spiritual life. The reality is that either Jesus is who He said He was, or we are mistaken. There's no middle ground. Trust in Jesus not just because you feel it in your heart, but because you're convinced He's Lord by His death and resurrection. Be fully convinced in your faith and discover the real truth behind the emotions. Prayer Challenge Pray and ask God to help you go beyond your emotions and confirm in your heart the truth of Jesus. Questions for Thought Why do you think many people see faith as more of a feeling than an actual fact? What does that say about their faith? How do you think the truth of Jesus' death and resurrection makes your faith different from other religions?  Visit the Senior Living Ministries website Visit the Senior Living Ministries website The post The Truth That’s Behind Your Emotions – Senior Living – October 11 appeared first on GodUpdates.

With friends (and bandmates) reunited for Dream Theater’s 40th anniversary, it’ll be a special night for fans at Wembley Arena later this month

Hayley Williams shares message boosting supportive mental wellness organisations on World Mental Health Day

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