Show summary Hide summary
The September/October issue of Easyriders is complete, but the team has already shifted into rally season mode—organizing an exhibit on Main Street in Sturgis and scrambling to ready several Bonneville racers. Behind the scenes there’s a mix of last-minute repairs, art unveilings and product releases shaping the next few weeks for the publication and its community.
Rally preparations and a Main Street exhibit
Staff are setting up an Easyriders exhibit adjacent to the Emporium on Main in Sturgis. Installation work will begin soon as the team balances event logistics with vehicle preparations and insurance matters for the Bonneville entries.
Triumph Bonneville T40: 398cc single-cylinder powers the 2027 T40
Bikernet releases pre-rally weekly newsletter dated July 23, 2026
Everyday shop details are part of the push. Staff handled routine yard maintenance and contracted crews for heavier tasks. The magazine’s organizers say they’ll load a van with pop-up shelters, tools and a lift to support the team at the salt.
Bonneville updates from 5-Ball Racing
The 5-Ball Racing Bonneville project for 2026 received a number of technical upgrades. The control dash was rebuilt with a new master power switch, nitrous arming, ignition control and a safety tether. Technicians tested new terminals and wiring and replaced a faulty circuit breaker and relay.
Engine and data systems were refreshed as well. The team installed a Dyna 2000i ignition with an adjustable four-degree retard setting for nitrous applications. The Mychron 3 data logger is now operational, and previously damaged two-channel sensors were updated.
These notes and technical details were supplied by Berry Wardlaw of Accurate Engineering in Dothan, Alabama.
Vehicle movements and shop work
The Departure crew reported progress on the Bonne Belle, a 45‑flathead sibling to the AW 120‑inch Panhead. They located transportation to carry the bike directly to Bonneville and completed an exhaust system that incorporates a PVC valve as part of a temporary solution.
Elsewhere in the shop, a recently finished project—referred to as the Billy bike—was started and produced an oil leak that needs attention. A new seat pan and cover were fitted by Freak Show Customs.
New product: RMJ Tactical’s Lincoln Two Finger
RMJ Tactical introduced a two‑finger version of its Lincoln brass piece, nicknamed around the shop as the “Lincoln Ball Buster.” The smaller design reduces weight to about 4 ounces and is offered with a vintage patina finish for a distinctive look.
The maker describes the item as a novelty or tool rather than a carry weapon and urges buyers to research local laws before carrying it. State regulations vary, and the company advises owners to confirm legality in their jurisdiction.
Art, events and a tribute to David Mann
Artist Danial James has produced new work that will debut at an Easyriders party on Sunday the 9th at the Main Street shop. The piece is described as a tribute to artist David Mann, who is frequently referenced in the motorcycle community for his influence and imagery.
The publication plans to offer a Danial James centerfold as a high‑quality poster on its site and notes that three individuals being recognized this year as founders of Easyriders will be inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame.
Editorial direction and community priorities
In an internal note, the magazine’s editor—known to readers as Bandit—outlined the title’s editorial focus: celebrating freedom, innovation, performance and the broader culture around custom bikes. The plan includes wider coverage of different custom styles, support for racing, and outreach to young riders through mentoring programs.
Bandit said the team intends to publish stories about industry issues, mentoring initiatives and community efforts, and to seek sponsors willing to back those efforts without censoring editorial content.
Exhibits, partners and logistics
During the rally, items for display will be housed in Dakota Annie’s jewelry case at the Emporium. Photographer and archivist Michael Lichter is assisting with exhibit cards; the team expects to review a proof ahead of the show.
The staff behind the Bikernet Weekly News was credited for ongoing coverage and logistics: The Redhead, Wayfarer, LA Laura, Viscous Vickie, Danial James, the Freak Show team, Sturgis prospect Kendra, Paul Davis, Agent Zebra and Berry Wardlaw.
With the rally close and several projects in motion, the publication says readers can expect more reports and on‑the‑ground updates in the coming days.
