Noot: January 2020

Constant Velocity

It works. I enjoy trying different combinations - but I just can't seem to find the one that works on this motor. UPDATE ! I'm now running a 42 pilot with a smaller(factory stock) Linkert 4-bolt manifold with a rubber flange adapted for the CV spigot. I think the S&S manifold was too large, and it was killing my velocity on starts especially....

Jay Springsteen

In his early years, Jay Springsteen and his brother Charles raced short tracks. "Chuck" ran a 360cc or bigger - and the younger brother Jay raced a smaller 250cc. The lack of power to most racers would be a disadvantage, but Jay learned to make up seconds/lap with corner speed ! Holding the throttle wide open all the way around the track, steering with the rear wheel under full power - and pitching the bike sideways to scrub speed when necessary. It helped hone his skills - soon becoming a top ranked Junior - and then Expert status. The poster above celebrates his 1977 National Championship. He won the previous year (1976) and won again in 1978 - A 3 time national champion. Jay had a mysterious ailment that plagued him during his prime - causing him to miss races and forfeit points. It was years until a smart physician finally diagnosed his problem - and he came back strong as ever ! Scott Parker is the king - but Springsteen (in my opinion) is the greatest flat track racer ever - due to his skill, stamina, longevity and promotion of the sport. He's still goes fast as heck too . . .

Baker Drivetrain

One of the best investments you can make for your kick-start Harley 4 speed ! They operate smooth as silk - and I've tested these gears for 5 straight years on my kicker panhead. It's a one kick bike on most occasions, and this Baker set up is a big part of it. Not cheap - but nothin' good ever is . . .

Above: I got my first set of gears from Bert Baker himself. I won a bike show, and received a Baker gift certificate as a prize. James Simonelli, me, and Bert Baker in Sturgis, SD. I run their heavy forged kicker pedal with chrome moly shaft too. Maybe someday afford a complete transmission?

Harley K Model Head Gaskets

They don't use head gaskets. Just spray the head and cylinder with a couple coats of Harley Hi-Heat Barrel Paint, let dry - and bolt 'em on !

Cedar River Harley-Davidson Shop

Yes...it's January. Probably another 2-3 months of cold to deal with here in Iowa. This is an excellent time to get started on your "customizing" or service on your summer ride. Maybe a trade is in order??? Our local dealership has customers from all over North Iowa and beyond. If you need parts, service or otherwise - Call 641-228-2192 and ask for Bill (Parts and Service) - and there's a good chance he can help you out, get you a fair price - and ship your parts if needed.

Plenty of new and barely used Harley-Davidson (and other brands too) on hand at all times.

In business since the early 1970s...the Minert family still has some old iron sittin' around . . .

Buddy Stubbs

I talked to Buddy Stubbs awhile back when I visited Arizona. These are his personal race bikes he ran short tracks, TTs, desert races, 1/2 miles - a couple KRs and an XLR. He beat the factory riders many times - and won the Daytona 100 (250cc class). I think he said he's 80 now !