We’ve hosted some pretty wild diversions on previous El Diablo Runs, none more ludicrous than The Circle of Death. On a makeshift dirt track carved into the silt with old tires and rebar, chopper freaks banged elbows while a thousand spectators rooted for carnage and mayhem. Ten years ago, Biltwell co-founder Barnacle Bill Bryant took his shovelhead for one last spin on that legendary loop. Hairbrained shit shows like The Circle of Death and McGoo’s Coctagon are no more, but the spirit and infamy of the EDR lives on. Mark your calendars—the devils will ride again May 2-4, 2025. Photo: Aaron Brimhall.
04 DOIN’ THE BURT
Davin and Geoff ride with friends from our distributor in New Zealand
08 2024 PEOPLE’S CHAMP
The unsung artisans, builders, and blue-collar bad asses of Born-Free
17 2025 PEOPLE’S CHAMP CONTENDERS
Gentlemen, start your torches—The People’s Champ and Born-Free are coming
18 RAMBLR SUNGLASSES
Not another collab. We’re officially in the sunglasses game
20 EXFIL-105
Our waterproof trunk bag for two-wheeled adventures
22 SHOP SOFTY
The Biltwell crew shows Harley’s new dog some old tricks
26 2025 GRINGO
Everything old is new again
28 RIDGECREST GLOVES
Our newest glove works overtime on dirt trails and shop benches
30 TIME MACHINE
Riding through history at the Harley museum
32 FISH TACOS AND DIRT
Revisiting the time Team Biltwell raced the NORRA 1000 on a Sportster
36 BELLISSIMA!
Biltwell + Moto Morini cook up a spicy Italian dish
40 GRINGO S
Feast your eyes on this year’s line
42 JOB SHOP
Behind the scenes at Café’s Customs
46 KERNVILLE KAMPOUT
Good times every time!
48 RIDGELINE GOGGLES
A proper goggle for off-road riding
50 FUEL CLEVELAND
Our friends in the Buckeye State know how to throw a moto show
56 GRINGO SV
This year’s line takes Bold New Graphics to a whole new level
trip report: new zealand
Doin’ the
In February last year, Biltwell’s photographer Geoff and I flew to New Zealand at the peak of the southern hemisphere’s summer to meet the team at our new distributor, and to check out the Burt Munro Challenge. If you don’t know who Burt Munro is, he’s Anthony Hopkins’ character in the feel-good biopic, “The World’s Fastest Indian.” “The Burt” as Kiwis call it is five days of every kind of motorcycle racing imaginable: Drag racing, flat track beach racing, road racing, hill climbing, you name it. All of the events take place in and around the late, great Burt Munro’s hometown of Invercargill, an old port town on the southern tip of NZ’s South Island.
We landed in Auckland on a Thursday morning, picked up our rental bikes, and headed south to Hamilton to meet the boys at Level Limited, our authorized NZ distro. On Friday we hit the road with Ryan on a bike and Ben trying to keep up with us in his chase van. We stopped at a couple motorcycle dealerships on the way down and timed it perfectly to hit some shit weather on our way to Wellington. Saturday morning started with a quick rip to the ferry terminal for a three-hour boat ride to the South Island.
CRAWLING SOUTH
Ryan had planned our trip with what looked like fairly short days on paper,
but when you get out of the cities you realize the entire island nation is twolane country roads with 100 km/h speed limits that drop as low as 30 km/h—18 mph—in every town. It felt like another small town popped up on the horizon every 20 minutes. With a population of five million, New Zealand has roughly the same headcount as Alabama.
NZ’s North Island is known for warm weather and beautiful beaches, but the South Island is where most of the country’s lakes, rivers, glaciers, and mountains hide. We took the scenic route through Lewis Pass and Hanmer Springs down to Christchurch to meet up with another lad from Level Limited
named Oscar. From there we climbed up Arthur’s Pass through Otira, then to the west coast for more roads heading south. Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier, Lake Wānaka, Lake Hāwea, and Cardrona all whizzed by during the next few days of riding. The ride down the Crown Range Road from Cardrona to Queenstown was particularly beautiful. Queenstown is probably my favorite city/town in the entire country. After leaving Queenstown, the boys from LL bombed down to Invercargill to set up for the rally. Checking the weather, Geoff and I had a clear forecast to Milford Sound, only a day’s detour away. New Zealand’s southern fjord lands only get a few clear weeks
Continued on page 7
Words: Davin Wirtanen / Photos: Geoff Kowalchuk
Burt
Doin’ the Burt
Continued from page 4 per year, so we took advantage of it, and holy shit was it beautiful! After our little detour we spent the next four days with the LL team in Invercargill. The rally was great and it was cool to see such a broad mix of bikes in attendance.
HOMEWARD BOUND
Our route back wasn’t as chock full of sights as the ride down, but we did get to see Mount Cook, which was epic. We made our way back to Christchurch to drop off Oscar, then took the eastern coastal road back up to Picton to catch the ferry to Wellington on the southern tip of the North Island. The last day of riding was a doozy. While only 398 miles, it took over 12 hours thanks to the annoying speed limits and all the damned road construction.
When all was said and done, we spent 15 days riding around the country. The South Island is a magical place and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for somewhere to ride motorcycles and have fun. Kiwi’s summer is America’s winter, and the 21-hour time difference from SoCal is so far ahead you can pretend it’s only three hours behind. This trip gets a 10 out of 10 in my travel log, and we’ll definitely be heading back soon.
2024 People’s Champ
Since taking the reins for the People’s Champ build-off six years ago, Biltwell’s grass-roots contribution to custom motorcycle culture has grown from strength to strength. By any metric—builder talent, voter participation, audience size, sponsor support, or cash and prizes—People’s Champ is a must-see kickstart to Born-Free, America’s premier custom motorcycle expo.
It’s difficult to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship on display at last year’s People’s Champ premiere without attending the event personally, but Geoff’s photos provide a small taste. For a video exposé on every man who made the finals, click the QR code on each builder’s profile. Because voting for People’s Champ is conducted online, last year’s build-off was a truly global affair, and winner Andy Martin proved it. The Kiwi came all the way from New Zealand to ride his ’48 Panhead to Cook’s Corner on the eve of Born-Free. For his trouble, Andy earned a spot on the lawn with Born-
Free’s invited builders, plus a giant cardboard check for ten grand.
BUILT, NOT BOUGHT
Taking stock of all the metallurgical talent on display at Cook’s Corner last year was challenging. All six finalists chose a Harley for their donor bike, and no one skimped on the flash and filigree. People’s Champ caretakers Josh Gilbow, Bill Bryant, and Mike Deutsch see their event as the best way for lesser-known builders and homebased fabricators to break into the big leagues at Born-Free, now entering its sixteenth year on the chopper social calendar.
Before giving Andy Martin and his fellow finalists 15 extra minutes of fame, props to the brands and businesses that make this Biltwell event possible are in order. Thanks Baker Transmissions, Born-Free, “Choppers” magazine, Claybourne Co., Harley-Davidson, J&P Cycles, Liquid Death, Lowbrow Customs, Metzler, Paughco, Russ Brown, S&S, Thorogood, Whiteknuckler, Super73, American Metal whiskey, Junior’s Hand Made, CT Newman Engineering, FnA, Morris Magneto, and 805 beer. If you’re a fan of custom motorcycles, please support the companies that support us.
Words: Harold McGruther
Photos: Geoff Kowalchuk
hard work pays off
andy martin
Favorite details: All the molding on the bike—the frame leg fins, the tank scoop, and the fender scoop that houses the taillights. I’m also stoked on the spiked chain clutch release, exhaust brackets, and top motor mount that all share the same detailing.
Biggest hurdles: Getting parts in New Zealand is a struggle, and long lead times always slow you down. I had a ton of issues with chrome plating, and re-plated over 50 percent of the parts due to bad polishing.
How it rides: It’s really fun to ride, and sounds awesome when you’re ripping along. It handles great and rides straight as an arrow at 75. The brakes even work well, which was a nice surprise.
Thanks: Jack, Steve-o, and Dean for all their help; Dave at ABFX for laying down the paint for me; and of course, my family and the Dunedin crew for their support.
the 2024 people’s champ
2024 People’s Champ @andrewcjm Dunedin, New Zealand
It rides straight as an arrow at 75. The brakes even work well, which was a nice surprise
hard work pays off
ANDY MARTIN
1948 H-D Panhead
tony medellin
Tattoo artist and metal engraver Tony Medellin can add People’s Champ finalist to his eclectic CV. The Reno native was excited to be part of last year’s build-off because he knew the five other finalists would push his creativity and build skills to the limit. A blown head gasket the night before Friday’s mandatory shakedown ride eliminated Tony from final voting, but not even that gut punch could diminish his stoke.
@tony medellintattoo
Reno, Nevada
1940 hd Knucklehead
An electrician by trade, Derek Savage made his first trek to Born-Free in 2018 and picked up a case of chopper fever not even more cowbell could cure. After building a few bikes, Derek submitted an entry in 2023 and landed on the list of 12 semi-finalists. Derek’s combination of confidence, attention to detail, and excellent tools pushed him and his ’39 Knuckle into the final six, where the man and his machine garnered much acclaim.
craig westfall
Like his day job as a high-school teacher in Buffalo, New York, building a head-turning motorcycle presented Craig with both perks and challenges. Mr. Westfall has always wanted to do two things: Travel across the country, and build a chopper. To hear Craig tell it, entering People’s Champ last year was the most efficient way to do both. Ten months later, Craig and his Evo chopper made the 50-mile shakedown ride from Lake Elsinore to Santiago Canyon without a hiccup. Class dismissed.
Running a custom fab and full-service motorcycle shop in the United Kingdom for many years has given Joe Gazendam the confidence to build just about anything on two wheels. Joe’s Shovelhead has the powerful stance of a British bulldog, and was a more-than-worthy entry on last year’s dais. The handcrafted stainless-steel swingarm frame at the center of Joe’s build “was a pain in the ass but a labor of love,” but on final inspection we’d say it was worth it.
nick turner
Whether it’s on two wheels or four, petrol flows through Nick Turner’s veins. The automotive fleet mechanic out of San Jose, CA, says his ’55 Panhead was sitting around unloved and unfinished for so long, he needed a “kick in the ass” to get it done. The boot that got Nick off the couch and into the shop was the entry he submitted to People’s Champ in late 2023. “I was stoked—I couldn’t believe it. And all it took was one Instagram post!” Nick makes it sound easy, but building a proper chopper is anything but. Nice work, Mr. Turner.
2025 contenders
This year’s contenders are working hard! Voting goes live on June 16, on www.biltwellinc.com
NAME: MIKEY BARRON
INSTAGRAM: @bandits_mikey
HOME: California, USA
BIKE: Motor: 1969 Harley-Davidson
NAME: BRENT FAVREAU
INSTAGRAM: @BrentFavreau
HOME: Massachusetts, USA
BIKE: 1940 Harley-Davidson EL
INSTAGRAM: @HellOnWheels
HOME: Alabama, USA
BIKE: 1946 Knucklehead
INSTAGRAM: @Mikebellomo
HOME: Michigan, USA
BIKE: 1947 Dual Carb Flathead
INSTAGRAM: @unity.mfg
HOME: Ohio, USA
BIKE: 1953 Panhead
INSTAGRAM: @Baykoshit_
HOME: British Columbia, Canada
BIKE: 1957 Panshovel
NAME: HUNTER KELLY
NAME: ZACH GOSTELI
NAME: MAX BAYKO
NAME: MIKE BELLOMO
RAMBLR
YOU SPOKE. WE LISTENED.
After partnering with popular brands on several sunglass collabs, Biltwell customers who missed those boats let us know it. “Enough with the limited-edition drops—please make some damn sunglasses we can buy without the Instagram-fueled shopping frenzy.” We heard you loud and clear, and during an R&D junket last year we met a great OEM in the optics industrial complex. The result of that hookup is RAMBLR. These comfortable, classically styled sunglasses boast impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses in Grey Smoke or Red Mirror finishes. Both lens options include anti-scratch, anti-glare, and UV blocking treatments, and the frames feature stainless-steel hinges for premium-grade function and finish. RAMBLR sunglasses are available now at authorized Biltwell dealers and biltwellinc.com—no online shopping scramble required.
1) Molded clamshell case is crush resistant and features a soft, anti-scratch interior
2) Polycarbonate frames feature satin finish with gloss black logo detailing
3) Both styles meet European CE standards (individual colorways sold separately)
4) Drawstring cleaning sack with embroidered logo included with every pair
5) RAMBLR’s 4-color cardboard box is damn near worth the price of the entire kit: $39.95 at biltwellinc.com and authorized Biltwell retailers today. 1 2 3 5 4
HAUL IT ALL
OUR WATERPROOF TRUNK BAG FOR TWO-WHEELED ADVENTURE
We designed our EXFIL-105 bag for DIY fitment across the seat, rear fender, luggage rack, or saddlebags on a wide range of motorcycles—everything from V-twin baggers to ADV machines. As the digits in its name imply, this piece of Biltwell moto luggage provides enough interior volume to gobble up 105 12-ounce cans. Multiple tie-down points around EXFIL-105’s perimeter allow customizable attachment with a variety of available Biltwell straps or third-party options. The bag’s main compartment features thermal welded seams for 100% water resistance. You can access contents in EXFIL-105’s two smaller side compartments without removing mounting straps or opening the rolltop lid on the main compartment—a nice feature for speedy getaways.
UV treated, 1000D tarpaulin PVC material for maximum resistance to the elements
Fart Valve Technology lets you bleed out inside air to reduce volume
Thermal welded seams ensure dryness inside waterproof main compartment
Multiple tie-down points make universal fitment and DIY attachment easy
MOLLE on all sides for attachment and expansion
Oversized quick-release buckles securely fasten the rolltop opening
Reflective stitching on webbing for nighttime visibility
Biltwell sales veep Davin Wirtanen probably clocked 10,000 miles on early prototypes during EXFIL-105 development. Davin can sniff out weaknesses in moto gear hidden inside a sewer pipe. If EXFIL-105 meets his standards, we guarantee it will exceed yours.
We have a weird stable of motorcycles at Biltwell HQ. There’s a few modern Harleys here and there, but most of our individual collections comprise crusty choppers, modern ADV bikes, off-road bikes (both vintage and modern), the odd Hinckley Triumph now and then, and of course my trusty FXR. Last year we decided to add a “shop bike” to the mix and Davin picked the most generic H-D Softail Standard available. It’s nice to have a reliable machine anyone on the payroll can take for an extended getaway, but let’s face it—stock is boring.
We couldn’t just leave our Shop Softy alone, but we also didn’t want to spend hundreds of hours or thousands of dollars customizing it, either. This bike’s main purpose is to serve as a fitment mule for new luggage and hard part prototypes, so if we made dramatic modifications it would no longer serve that purpose. With that in mind, Davin and I sat down with part-time Biltwell wrench Rouser Rob to plan our “build”. We steered clear of the wheelie popper aesthetic that feels pretty tired these days and went with a mildly customized style that should age well over time. Without any ironic retro bits, our Shop Softy is a modern, comfortable cruiser that’s perfect for short hops, weekend getaways, and week-long photo shoots at a moment’s notice; the Moto Company’s silky smooth, M8 engine is good like that.
FLAMING HOT DOGS
Of course, the biggest visual change was paint. We’re right around the corner from Hot Dog Kustoms, and Pete personally doused our Softail’s tins in black pearl paint with classic “blurple”
flames. The Advanblack T-Sport fairing and belt guard got the same treatment. This was the most expensive part of the
makeover but worth it, as the bike pops in the sun. Our now not-so-standard Softail breathes easier after Rouser installed the S&S Mini Teardrop air cleaner and Grand National slip-ons. A generic license plate mount cleaned up the rear fender, and FXR Division’s adjustable rear brake pedal linkage was essential. LePera’s Tailwhip seat puts the rider more “in the pocket,” and looks way better than stock.
PRACTICAL PERFORMANCE
In standard trim our donor bike came with a lot of shiny bits, so we pulled chrome Murdock risers, Tracker bars,
and our digital dash panel from stock to complement the bike’s blingy vibe. Remaining Biltwell goodies on the spec sheet are easy upgrades anyone with basic tools can install at home. Since we wanted this bike to excel at both multiday adventures and mundane daily commuting, an EXFIL-3 2.0 bar bag, EXFIL-18 saddlebags, and an EXFIL sissy bar handle all cargo requirements with ease.
After completing this build last year, Davin and I have taken our Shop Softy on numerous multi-day adventures without surprises. After sending his clapped-out Chevy Aveo to the bone yard last January, Erik has been doing his 120-mile round-trip commute on our shop bike, and loves the comfort, reliability, and gas mileage he gets from Harley’s Big Twin cruiser. Fact is, practically everyone who rides our lightly tweaked H-D M8 Big Twin seems to dig it.
Words: Bill Bryant
Photos: Geoff Kowalchuk
The New Dog in Biltwell’s Kennel Learns Some Old Tricks
SPECIFICATIONS
Biltwell PARTS:
10” Murdock risers
Tracker Mid handlebars
AlumiCore TBW grips
AlumiCore TPV rubber replacement sleeves
Perch-mount teardrop Utility mirrors
M8 Softail Dash Panel
Sanderson foot pegs
’18-up EXFIL sissy bar
EXFIL-18 saddlebags
EXFIL-3 2.0 bar bag
Other Stuff:
Paint by Hot Dog Customs
Advanblack T-Sport fairing
LePera Tailwhip seat
S&S Grand National slip-on mufflers
S&S Mini Teardrop air cleaner
Drag Specialties saddlebag support brackets
FXR Division adjustable rear brake linkage
Shop Softy’s EXFIL-18 saddlebags and sissy bar together like Rogaine and Viagra at a sexy seniors cocktail mixer.
Yeah, Pete can paint.
Gloss Black
Vintage White
Sunset Spectrum
Metallic Catalina
Metallic Lime Competition Orange Flames
all-new ridgecrest gloves
Built Like a Second Skin, but More Comfortable
Named for the high-desert mining town in SoCal’s Mojave desert where we host the Biltwell 100 off-road race every April, prototypes of our newest glove quickly became every tester’s favorite during development. When Ridgecrest arrives this spring, it might be your new favorite Biltwell glove, too. Inspired by the super comfortable, stretch synthetic gloves favored by motocross pros, Ridgecrest takes our “less is more” aesthetic to its logical extreme. We didn’t choose its minimalist construction just to meet a price point. Ridgecrest’s single-layer synthetic suede palm, Lycra finger gussets, and polyester back and thumb panels are crafted to follow the contours of your greasy meat hooks like a second skin. The adjustable hook-and-loop wrist wrap is built with more synthetic suede and a tear-resistant interior laminate to reinforce this high-stress area. Colorful graphics are sublimated to avoid compromising comfort and dexterity. Rubberized traction graphics in the palms vary by glove style, but our Blackout colorway is subtle enough for cat burglars and ninjas. Available in six sizes from S to 3XL at authorized dealers and biltwellinc.com soon.
1985
Single-layer vegan suede anel in thumb friction zone
for shop use and stealth runs
Blackout Perfect
Forest Colorful sublimated graphics
Chinook Thermal-bonded rubber branding on wrist
TIME MACHINES
Whenever we find ourselves in Wisconsin for the Mama Tried show, a visit to the Harley-Davidson Museum is always tops on our todo list. It’s become a tradition, and for good reason. Every time we step inside there’s an air of anticipation, knowing we’ll encounter something new and aweinspiring. Even familiar sights
like the museum’s famed wall of gas tanks never fail to impress. The museum serves as a sanctuary for motorcycle enthusiasts, offering an endless array of perfectly restored and preserved bikes that beg to be photographed and studied. The Harley-Davidson Museum encapsulates over 120 years of the iconic brand’s contributions to all things V-twin.
The facility
celebrates adventure, freedom, and The Motor Company’s monumental impact on the American motorcycle experience. Whether you’re deeply entrenched in the world of vintage Milwaukee iron or merely interested in the company’s history, the MoCo museum delivers a wallop to the senses like no other historical repository. It’s a journey that will leave you educated and inspired by Harley’s impact on global motorcycle history.
High school history was never like this.
Riding Through History at the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee
Top left: The wall of gas tank liveries is a sensory overload of colors, styles, and eras across Harley’s 120+ year timeline.
Top right: The MoCo Museum is a candy store for people with a sweet tooth for gasoline.
Bottom left: Harley-Davidson Serial No. 1
Bottom right: When you see artist and motorcycle collector Jeff Decker’s bronze homage to vintage hill climb racing, you know you’re in the right place.
This is Frijole XL883, the custom V-twin desert sled that carried four masochists and the spirit of an entire company to the checkered flag in 2018. If there is a physical manifestation of Biltwell’s collective energy, teamwork, and foolishness, this is it.
TACOS & DIRT
Words: Bill Bryant
Photos: Geoff Kowalchuk
Seven Years Ago, Team Biltwell Ate Both on a Harley in the NORRA 1000
Prologue: Aboard a modern dirt bike, the NORRA Mexican 1000 is one of the most challenging things you can do on two wheels. Entering the race on a Harley Sportster—even a highly modified one—is a recipe for disaster. Nevertheless, racing a V-twin desert sled 1,300 miles from Ensenada to San Jose Del Cabo, Baja, was exactly what we set out to do in 2018. Starting was foolhardy. Finishing would be a miracle.
On April 22, 2018, NORRA organizers waved the green flag on another edition of their legendary all-terrain rally in Baja. Run for the first time in 1967, the NORRA Mexican 1000 pits desert racers and their purpose-built two- and fourwheeled machines against some of the harshest terrain on earth. That year’s stage race thundered past free-range cattle and clapped-out farm trucks over boulders, beaches, and silt beds down both coasts of the Baja peninsula before crossing the finish line in San Jose Del Cabo. For the first time in the race’s history, Biltwell Inc. co-founder Bill Bryant—with massive support from co-workers, family, and friends—saw the checkers on an H-D 883 Sportster. Doing their part in this history-making endeavor were Team Biltwell co-riders
Mike Deutsch, Erik Westergaard, and Chris Moeller, along with crew chief Rob “Rouser” Galan.
NUTS AND BOLTS
To vastly improve the odds of simply finishing, Team Biltwell enlisted parttime master motorcycle mechanic and full-time surf nerd “Rouser” Rob Galan to customize and service the Frijole XL883. Upgrades to the essentially stock 2000 Sportster included suspension mods; redundant onboard electrical systems; and vastly superior handlebars, hand controls, and foot controls. Knobby tires with airless inner tubes on strong, lightweight alloy wheels helped the V-twin tractor navigate harsh terrain as efficiently as machines with half the weight and twice the Vmax. Onboard equipment
for bike maintenance and rider safety included a tool kit, reflective blanket, Lowrance satellite with iPad Google Earth backup, fuel, food, water and a huge wad of cash. Trust us when we tell you, we needed all of it.
DETAILS MADE THE DIFFERENCE
Team Biltwell’s strategy for the fiveday event called for two riders to swap seats at speedy gas stops in strategic locations. None of the riders missed their checkpoints at any time during the race. Every evening, Rob changed fluids and filters, tightened spokes, checked nuts and bolts, and replaced worn parts as needed. After sleeping on an army cot next to his hand-built Harley, Rob and Team Biltwell rose before the sun for 6:00 a.m. check-in at each day’s starting line.
Continued on page 34
from page 33
All things considered, riding the Frijole was surprisingly easy… until it wasn’t. Frijole’s low-end grunt was perfect in the sand—it simply ploughed right through it. On rocks at low speeds our 500-pound desert sled was less predictable, but the weight had positive gyroscopic and momentum effects every rider learned to anticipate and control. High-speed washboards and twisty ascents were a blast. If we did it again, we’d add a permanent kickstand, hotter cams, and a longer swingarm to improve stability at high speeds. As it was, Frijole 883 performed as capably as anyone could hope for a Harley on such diabolical terrain.
According to NORRA race results, 43 motorcycles started the 2018 edition of the Mexican 1000, and 32 finished. Our Frijole 883 was among 21 socalled modern motorcycles in its class, and finished 14th. None of the 13 motorcycles ahead of the Frijole 883 started life as an American V-twin cruiser, and few if any weighed over 300 pounds. In full race trim we barely squeezed 70 miles per fill-up out of Frijole’s stock Harley gas tank. Wise men say you shouldn’t bring a knife to a gun fight; we brought a WWII Sherman tank. When the dust settled, however, everyone on Team Frijole 883 was a winner. After the race we parked the Frijole—still crusty from a week-long desert race—in our HQ’s showroom to prove what’s possible when average people combine talents to do extraordinary things.
Epilogue: As of this year, no one has yet finished the NORRA 1000 on a Harley like Team Biltwell did.
Want action? Watch the full-length race video here. Want specs? Get the full explainer video here. Background photo: Bill brings it into the wash just west of Loreto after a very long day
Moeller lived up to his Mad Dog nickname the whole week!
Otto in one of those early mornings that only Baja can deliver
Westy with the day-one starting line butterflies
This mission would have been impossible without Rouser’s tireless work ethic
Bellissima
The Biltwell + Moto Morini STR Sport Collab
Moto Morini is an Italian motorcycle marque with rich engineering and competition stories to tell, starting way back in 1937. The brand’s halcyon days took root on home soil after WW II, and reached new heights during America’s disco days when the scrappy manufacturer introduced a sophisticated new 4-stroke V-twin with six-speed gearbox.
The 1975 Moto Morini Corsaro’s electronic ignition was a technical masterstroke, but its 80mph top speed was even more impressive given the machine’s diminutive 350cc displacement. Of course, Moto Morini suffered many of the same slings and arrows that hobbled other European bike brands in the waning years of last century, but fresh talent, more money, and a massive injection of manufacturing might from a Chinese automotive partner in 2018 righted the ship. Today Moto Morini does what manufacturers like Harley and Honda can’t or won’t—they build incredibly fun, impressively stylish, shockingly affordable motorcycles.
When I saw the company’s new models at the AIM Expo in 2023, it was amore at first sight. After exchanging pleasantries and business cards with Chris McGee, Moto Morini USA’s maggiordomo, Davin and I promised the eager leader we’d stay in touch. After supplying some demo bikes
for test rides and photo sessions, Chris agreed to provide a Moto Morini donor bike for a Biltwell collab. Last summer, a shiny new STR Sport showed up in our workshop with very few strings attached. “Go nuts and have fun” was Chris’s only request.
HOW TO SAY “FUN” IN ITALIAN
Moto Morini’s middleweight street carver, the Seiemmezzo STR Sport (see-im-mezoh, literally “six-and-a-half” in Italian) lives up to its melodious name by cramming a fluid-cooled 650cc parallel twin into a nimble, naked bike platform. Clean lines, comfortable ergonomics, and a stacked spec sheet help the 6-1/2 punch way above its weight both functionally and stylistically, even more so when you consider its MSRP: about 7,300 dollars out the door, far less if you can find a 2023 edition in dealer overstock.
Because it’s a sophisticated motorcycle engineered to navigate strict Euro
Words: McGoo
Photos: Sheldon Ivester
Rouser Rob scavenged some DIY bits from the Biltwell parts bin to custom fab the tail tidy and turn signal mounts on the BW + MM 6-1/2 collab.
Bellissima
Here’s a short list of things we did to enhance Moto Morini’s already sexy Italian aesthetic:
√ Paint by Hot Dog
√ Seat by Duane Ballard
√ Ti bolts on exposed engine components
√ Motogadget LED turn signals
√ Cut and fill side panels with brass screen
√ Gold chain
√ CRG mirrors
√ Fresh Pirelli rubber
√ Cerakote wheels, bars, engine covers, and other bits
√ Customize stock exhaust, add a new stainless-steel can
√ Trim fat, remove clutter, peel off reflectors and decals
standards for safety, sound, emissions and other technological speedbumps, Davin, Bill, and part-time wrench Rouser Rob elected to keep radical chopping and bobbing on our STR Sport to a minimum. That said, the three surgeons responsible for our sexy Italian’s facelift still made deep cuts well below the skin. A truncated list of the most important cut-offs and bolt-ons are shown in the accompanying sidebar.
MOLTO BENNO
After fine-tuning and a brief shakedown, Davin tossed me the keys to our Seiemmezzo and I worked with Sheldon Ivester to create the photos seen here.
After 45 years of building sets and schlepping lightboxes, I still love working in the studio, never more so than when the assignment is shooting a cool motorcycle. This sexy Italian looks beautiful. Hot Dog’s understated paint takes the 6-1/2’s already attractive factory livery to 11. Gold Cerakoted wheels, engine covers, and other bits pop against the metallic red, and the matte black bits on the tank and mini fairing complement Moto Morini’s stock swingarm and engine finishes perfectly. And what about the custom upholstery by Duane Ballard? Only the finest pelle lavorata a mano, of course.
Duane Ballard added curves and comfort to the donor bike’s stock seat foam before crafting this leather upholstery with red stitching and brass vent accents.
Last winter the Biltwell + Moto Morini STR Sport collab went on the trade show circuit, appearing in public for the first time at the Parts and Labor Motorcycle Show in San Diego early January before heading to Moto Morini’s booth at AIM Expo in Las Vegas. At the latter event nearly 10,000 people ogled Biltwell’s collective handiwork. When the bike returns to our stable, I intend to take it on a proper adventure. If this Moto Morini is as fun to ride as it is to drool over, I’ll probably buy one.
No one at Mochas and Motos will believe us when we tell them the donor bike under this refresh retails for around seven grand.
Rob convinced a pair of Biltwell Mushman pegs to fit perfectly onto the STR Sport’s stock frame castings after changing their appearance with subtle cutting and filing.
Gringo S
The Helmet that Launched a Revolution
When we added a face shield to the eyeport of our iconic Gringo helmet, we gave global bikeriders a whole new—or should we say old?—way of looking at style and safety for two-wheeled fun. Before Gringo S, the popularity of sport bikes and their aerodynamic aesthetic had rubbed off on helmets until the majority of modern lids now look more like stealth aircraft than motorcycle gear. So many fins, vents, bone lines, and diffusers. While such superficial filigree might work great in Moto GP, much of it seems like overkill if you’re just riding a Ducati Scrambler to a campground in Baja. If “Less is More” is your credo, Gringo S is your helmet. Built by hand with the same materials
as its stripped-down sibling Gringo, our Gringo S meets both US DOT and European ECE R22.06 standards for rider safety. Its injection-molded polycarbonate shield features simple hinge hardware with discrete aluminum washers you can swap out with other anodized colorways to customize the look. Because the shield is CE certified, it meets all European standards for impact- and scratch-resistance and boasts anti-fog treatment for optical clarity in suboptimal riding conditions. For daytime excursions, a broad range of smoke and mirror accessory shields is available. For those who prefer a pinch of space-age magic in their moto gear, we offer a Gringo S replacement
shield with Pinlock photochromic lens that transitions from clear to dark in harsh sunlight—the best option for all conditions.
Inside, Gringo S features a handstitched three-piece comfort liner. For fine-tuning your fit, we offer accessory cheek pads in different thicknesses. Outside, every Gringo boasts a handcrafted, automotive-quality paint finish, with this year’s line offering five standard and three limited-edition graphic colorways. Gringo S. Is it modern? Is it retro? The answer to both questions is yes.
Desert Spectrum
Gloss Black Flat Black
Gloss White
Gloss Storm Grey/ Black Tracker Garnet Red Flames
Gloss Agave Metallic Ugly Gold
JOB SHOP
behind the scenes at CAFÉ’S CUSTOMS
The first time I met Casey “Café” Fernandez was at the starting gate of the BMX track in Perris, California. He said, “Hey, I know you. I work at the parts counter at the Harley dealership. You and Rob come in all the time.” I’d probably seen him before, but nothing rang a bell. The next time I was in, I made sure to wait for Casey to help me out. The bald guy with the goatee, coincidentally name KC, had been a bit of a jerk and didn’t know much, so anyone was better bet than him. That’s how our friendship started.
Not long after that, Café left the dealership to open his own shop. He’d gone to MMI as a young guy, worked as a tech in a few shops, and then as a parts guy at Temecula Harley. By then, he’d been building big HP motors in his garage for a few years and was tired of the usual bar-and-shield nonsense. This was the move that turned his parttime performance shop into the fulltime tune and service center known as Café’s Customs.
Located in two nondescript commercial condos in Temecula, Casey has become the go-to guy for H-D’s Twin Cam engines and newer models. He built a name by crafting a customer experience that riders from all over the West Coast seek out. I know to be cautious of his upselling, but I also know that every bike I’ve gotten back from his shop has left me stoked. While Evo’s aren’t his usual focus, I’ve been ordering off his “secret menu” for years
and have always been impressed with how OCD he is about dialing them in. He’s also worked his magic on my wife’s Lowrider ST, turning it into a reliable, mile-munching machine that’s quick, too.
BACKSTORY
How did he get into customizing bikes? Growing up in Tucson in the mid ‘90s, Casey was introduced to dirt bikes by a friend. Casey convinced his dad that he needed a knobby-tired freedom machine, and the rest is history. With a garage full of his dad’s tools and a curious obsession with how things worked, he was tearing apart and rebuilding bikes to ride with the neighborhood kids. Soon, those kids were bringing their bikes to Casey for help, and the obsession with internal combustion engines took root.
Fast forward a few years, and after working in a powersports shop, Casey
got bit by the Buell bug. Not quite a dirt bike, not your typical Harley, but a Buell Ulysses came across his radar and he snatched it up. Before Harley’s Pan America, there was the Ulysses. A more dual-sport bike than a canyon carver, the Ulysses was ahead of its time and short-lived—but it allowed Casey to hone his tuning and customizing skills away from the service writers and judgmental customers. While Buells still hold a spot in his heart and shop, these days you’ll mostly find M8powered bikes on the lift at Café’s. The predecessor to the Twin Cam engine, M8s have quickly become the go-to for riders looking for speed and reliability. Casey’s got the hop-up formula down, and he recommends at least a cam and a tune to really amp up the riding experience. If the budget allows, he’ll be more than happy to go bigger with aftermarket throttle bodies, upgraded headwork, and, of course, one of his custom tunes.
Continued on page 44
Words: Mike “Otto” Deutsch
Photos: Geoff Kowalchuk
Having invested in a dyno a few years ago, Casey’s OCD kicked into overdrive as he moved away from off-the-shelf tunes and started creating custom setups for his clients. Want low-end grunt for your track bike? No problem. Big bagger for hitting Sturgis with your ol’ lady? Easy. Daily rider that just needs a little excitement? He’s got that covered, too. While dyno sheets aren’t my thing, after seeing a dozen of them on Casey’s desk, it’s clear that he’s passionate about the service he provides and loves getting feedback from customers after they’ve logged some miles on their bikes.
Casey’s also one of the first in the game to invest in drivetrain alignment tools and equipment. As a fan of the FXR platform, I know how tricky it can be to align a rubber-mounted motor. With the newer H-Ds putting out way more horsepower and torque, aligning everything with lasers and fixed points beats the old-school methods of welding rod and tape measures. Café’s perfected this service, making subtle adjustments even to bikes that just rolled off the showroom floor, improving the riding experience in ways you wouldn’t expect.
HABITS, NOT CHORES
It’s these “habits, not chores” that Casey applies to everything in his shop. Whether it’s mopping the floor or tuning a new motor, that what make Café’s Customs stand out. When you drop your bike off, there’s no service writer— just Café. When you pick it up, he’s the one who explains the work done and how it should perform. When it comes to fast V-Twins, Casey’s a one-man powerhouse and a true professional. I’m lucky to call him a friend.
@Cafes_Customs on Instagram
Daily rider that just needs a little excitement? He’s got that covered too.
Good Times - Every Time
If the paper placemat at the Chinese restaurant where I’m writing this story is correct, 2025 is the year of the snake. It’s also the tenth anniversary of Kernville Kampout, the oldschool motorcycle weekend we cooked up a decade ago to give our staff, customers, and friends something to do in the fall. Since I like motorcycles way more than kung pow chicken, I know where I’ll be this October. What makes Kernville Kampout special? Simple: Participation. Our recipe for fun has five ingredients—bikes, booze, camping, party games, and live music—and NO cages, chase trucks, or motorhomes. And since this one’s the big one-oh, it’s going to be a banger. Special musical guest Dale Watson and the Lone Stars are playing Saturday night. There will be contests with prizes for Spaghetti-O slurping, tug-o-war, arm wrestling, joint rolling, and beer roulette, plus an open bar with free beer and whisky both nights, while it lasts. Tickets go on sale July 7th at www.kernvillekampout. com and it always sells out!
the 10th annual kernville kampout
Words: McGoo
Photos: Geoff Kowalchuk
Ridgeline Goggles
If Dirt’s your Thing, this is Your Goggle
Our new Ridgeline goggle is engineered to provide tack-sharp optics and robust eye protection for serious off-road riding. Its comfortable, flexible urethane frame features a wide eye port to maximize peripheral vision. Outriggers on the frame help the adjustable woven strap pull the goggle tight against your face, sealing out mud, dust, and airborne debris. Posts on the optically precise polycarbonate lens make tear-off installation easy. Available now at biltwellinc.com and authorized Biltwell dealers worldwide.
• Scratch- and shatter-resistant anti-fog polycarbonate lens filters 100% of UV light
• Molded urethane goggle frame is pliant and flexible to seal tight against your face
• 17mm thick, 4-layer laminated foam with moisture-wicking fleece touch point seals comfortably around your eyes to filter dust and debris
• Removable nose guard offers additional face protection above and behind the helmet chin bar
• Heavy-duty woven strap with double D-ring adjusters features silicone strips to ensure proper placement on the helmet
• Four colorways available
Bolts
The 2024 Fuel Cleveland motorcycle show, held at the historic Hale Farm and Village in Cleveland, OH, showcased why Lowbrow Customs’ annual motorcycle and art show is a red-letter weekend on every chopper freak’s social calendar. Ensconced in the rustic charm of this Buckeye venue, last year’s Fuel Cleveland had something for everyone.
Hale Farm & Village is a thoughtfully preserved 19th-century facility that puts the “culture” in “agriculture.” The venue’s blend of history, architecture, and open space makes it ideal backdrop for hand-crafted motorcycles and the people who build and love them. As always, the bikes were the stars of the show. Enthusiasts from across the country presented their machinery, which ranged from meticulously restored classics to more modern custom builds.
Workshops and live demonstrations provided an additional layer of spectator engagement and entertainment at last year’s soiree. Gawkers and grease monkeys alike watched skilled artisans shaping metal, painting tanks, and demonstrating pinstriping techniques. These hands-on tutorials provided insight into the effort and artistry required to build world-class motorcycles; when you admire custom bikes as long as we have, the devilish labor it takes to achieve perfection often gets lost in the details.
Much of Fuel’s well-earned reputation for showcasing craftsmanship, creativity, and community spirit belongs to Mikey Revolt, Lowbrow’s media guru and Fuel curator. Don’t let Mikey’s hillbilly beard and youthful visage fool you— the photographer, storyteller, and big dreamer is a creative firebrand in his own right. Those who experienced Fuel Cleveland last year won’t soon forget it. If you missed out, Mikey and the guys at Lowbrow Customs are already doing the early footwork and heavy lifting for Fuel Cleveland 2025.
Story by P&L Staff
Photos by Geoff Kowalchuk
Ralph Paollilo
Tom Wohlfield
Ken Napier
BIll Balcer
Ryan Kehrer
Danny McGill
Spanky Caudill
Joe Zito
Ian Smith Birmingham, AL
Gringo SV
Refined, not Regurgitated
In a nod to our obsession with clarity— or did we just run out of clever?—the “SV” in our most feature-rich Gringo stands for “Shield and Vents.” Pretty self-evident, right? But by simply adding closeable brow inlets, chin bar side scoops, and the exhaust ducktail from our iconic Lane Splitter, we elevated the appearance and performance of Gringo SV to create a helmet for motorcycle enthusiasts with discernment and taste. Gringo SV delivers function without fuss, style without heavy-handed adornment,
and category-leading comfort for retro/ modern motorcyclers. No matter how many or what kind of motorcycles you have in your stable, There’s a Gringo SV in our ’25 line to complement all of them. We’re especially proud of Gringo SV’s bold new Intersection colorway. Conceived by Biltwell co-founder Bill Bryant and sprayed on early prototypes by legendary painter “Hot Dog” Pete, Intersection features simple lines and warm colors to give our premium Gringo SV a bold new look.
Regarding construction and compliance, Gringo SV is identical to every full-face helmet in our line. Its dual density EPS safety foam, hand-sewn comfort liner, and CE-certified polycarbonate shield are the same components found on Gringo S, but SV’s outer shell features clean, internal vent closures and beautiful vent styling on the actual shell—not delicate pieces of tacked-on plastic. Like every Biltwell full-face, Gringo SV meets US DOT and Europe’s robust ECE R22.06 standards for safety and comfort.
Gloss Black
Flat Black
Gloss Chalk Grey
Gloss White
Clockwise from top left:
Previous People’s Champ runner-up Jacob Conard and his lady made the drive from Texas to show off his sick salmon-colored chopper. Stackin’ ‘em deep.
Sellin’ ‘em cheap.
One of our favorites, and perhaps the meanest-looking motorcycle ever: Cutrate Oliver’s wicked shovel.
Clockwise from top left:
Not every motorcycle at this year’s Parts and Labor Expo was a chopper or a vintage crust bucket. Plenty of modern bikes dotted the parking lot, and this Bagger Racing League contender turned lots of heads.
Vendor aisles were teeming with bargain shoppers and chopperazzi all weekend.
“Hot Dog” Pete Finlan’s hand-painted genius caught everyone’s eye.
After 15 years of steady growth and fine tuning, what started as little more than a blowout sale in Biltwell’s parking lot every January has morphed into the biggest little motorcycle trade show in SoCal. Last month’s edition of the Biltwell Parts and Labor Motorcycle Expo— our annual stampede for bargain shoppers and two-wheeled obsessives—went down as always at San Diego’s Del Mar Fairgrounds.
Photos: Ed Subias & Geoff Kowalchuk
One Man Army
diving deep with ed subias
Like other men of a certain age who are contributing to the evolving motorcycle culture, Ed Subias got his first taste of two-wheeled fun on a BMX bike. Ed’s passion for pedaling, combined with his skills and curiosity for all things digital— photography, desktop publishing, video production, and social media—mutated over decades to bring Brown Bear where he is today. When Ed’s not riding or camping on his beloved Tenere 700, you might see him at a dirt track race in Sturgis or at the Biltwell 100 in the Mojave—Ed runs at the sharp end of the Hooligan pack on a well-worn H-D XL. For fun, Subias chronicles his adventures on Instagram reels, YouTube channels, and in a slick, self-funded and 100% hand-crafted magazine called “The Faction Moto.” Biltwell’s events and social media manager Mike “Otto” Deutsch is a member of Ed’s tribe, and caught up with his friend and fellow fun seeker for this thought-provoking chat.
What’s your deal, Ed? Who are you, what are you up to, and how’d you get here?
I grew up in SoCal doing typical
SoCal things: Riding BMX bikes and dirt bikes, bodyboarding at local beaches, camping and off-roading in the desert with family. I’m into other stuff, too: Graffiti, vintage mountain bikes, synth punk bands, lowriders, Japanese motorcycle and car culture, architecture, graphic design, trying to make music on an electric keyboard… I’m all over the place. Lately I’ve really been into cooking Korean food. On the business side I manage social media and websites for a couple motorcycle clients and do freelance photos and video. Of course, you and I do The Fool’s Gold Junk Show on YouTube. My career as a media and content creator in the motorcycle industry
grew organically. My favorite thing in life is riding motorcycles, so I’m always meeting people at races, trade shows, and other events. I got my break into the motorcycle world through my job in the BMX industry—there’s a lot of people and crossover between these two-wheeled realms.
Do you have any mentors in the motorcycle or journalism worlds, or are you 100% self-taught?
My technical skills with cameras and computer programs are all self-taught. I failed photography classes in high school and community college because I always interpreted assignments my own way instead of following the rules. I have a mentor in motorcycle media and it’s Michael Lichter, the famous custom motorcycle culture photographer. I ran into Michael at
a bunch of events about 15 years ago and we developed a great friendship. He has guided and supported me in all aspects of what I do, whether it’s how to deal with clients, how to tell a story through photographs, where to eat in a certain town, and just how to be a professional. He’s like a second father to me.
What’s one trait that’s worked well for you to build your career? This may sound crazy, but simply showing up and being on time. Nobody likes a flake, and there a quite a few on the creative side in this industry. This simple thing will always get you more work and help you build a solid reputation. Let it be known, however, that being “on time” really means being 20 minutes early, whether it’s a day in the office or a gig in the field.
Continued on page 68
Ed: Sportsters have been my favorite Harley model since day one. A young me on my Dad’s Ironhead. When my Dad came riding home from work, I would hear the bike and run to the front door to greet him and see the bike. A good running Sportster is always music to my ears.
You’ve ridden a lot of motorcycles over the years—what’s your alltime favorite?
Hands down, the factory Indian FTR750 flat track racer. I got to ride one in 2016 the day after Joe Kopp debuted it at the American Flat Track season finale at the Santa Rosa Mile. The bike was one of two in the entire world at the time. It oozed the “full works” vibe: Carbon fiber bodywork, fully CNC’ed engine, hand-welded frame, the works. There wasn’t one cast piece on it except for the rear brake caliper. The power was very linear and so useable; no crazy hit or hiccups. It was probably the most perfect engine I’ve ever experienced. It handled like a magic carpet, and felt as light as a beach cruiser. Indian’s FTR750 went on to win the AFT National Championships eight years running.
What’s your favorite kind of riding?
Weekend or week-long trips with two or three good friends. Definitely off-road on a dual-sport or ADV bike, where everyone carries their gear and we camp out for few nights along the ride. A tight crew all on the same page makes for some amazing, memorable trips.
Anything you love or hate about the motorcycle industry?
Lots of things I love, such as all the rad people in the industry I know from all
over the world who have become great friends. I love the actual bikes, but something people outside the industry don’t understand is that you rarely have time to actually ride, because moto industry jobs tend to be a lot more time consuming than average nine-to-fives. Hate is a strong word and requires a lot of energy, so I wouldn’t say there is anything I hate. There are things that aren’t my cup of tea, but I don’t waste a lot of time letting those things affect me.
Tell us about “Faction Moto.” What makes it worth doing in an era when newsstands barely exist. How do you make it successful?
“The Faction Moto” is a print magazine that features all kinds of bikes and motorcycle culture. Its main objective is to show all the amazing people, adventures, and motorcycles that fly under mainstream radar. The word “faction” means a small group within a larger group with differing views that refuse to conform. Faction Moto doesn’t conform to regular motorcycle magazine formulas. For instance, the first issue had a feature on lowrider cars and how they influence the custom motorcycle scene. The second issue has a story about a band called Mac Sabbath who dress like McDonalds characters and cover Black Sabbath songs to explain the evils of fast food.
The Faction doesn’t do bike or gear reviews of any kind. The Faction doesn’t have a staff. I literally do everything myself. I guess it boils down to passion, because I don’t know many people who would work a couple hundred hours on something to just break even on expenses.
When it comes to journalism you seem to do it all. What’s your most and least favorite parts of the job?
Race photography is my favorite. I love being on the track mere feet away from the bikes. It’s like being in a battlefield. You don’t have much time to think, the bikes are coming at you loud and fast, dirt is flying, the adrenaline is flowing and you’ve got to do everything instinctively. I get the same rush photographing racers as I do when I’m actually racing. Least favorite is writing a magazine article or a blog. It’s the most challenging for me. I’m OK at best, and it takes me forever to formulate a story that makes sense.
Is there a place you haven’t ridden that is really high up on your list?
Adventure riding in New Zealand. I would love to rent a Tenere 700 over there, load it up, and take off for a few weeks. Continued on page 70
“...do it because you love it, not because you want to make a lot of money or be famous, because neither of those things are likely going to happen.”
What are you doing to make the world a better place?
I always try to be the best human I can be every day. I treat others like I want to be treated and try to project a positive, friendly attitude. I do little stuff, like returning the grocery cart to the corral instead of leaving it loose in the parking lot. I recently sold some merch at the Parts and Labor Motorcycle Expo in San Diego, then spent the money on supplies for victims of the LA fires. I
delivered that stuff to an organization in LA the next day. Just not being an asshole is a good start because there are a lot of them out there.
Any last words of advice to the aspiring moto journalists out there?
I say it all the time, but do it because you love it, not because you want to make a lot of money or be famous, because neither of those things are
likely going to happen. Also, you have to put in the work… crazy amounts of work. Never do any work for free. You won’t be taken seriously, and you’ll never get paid. Never burn any bridges, because the moto world is pretty small. And finally, get off your phone and computer as much as possible and go ride your motorcycle. Passion is the one thing that will get you through everything.
Ed: Peak Hooligan days. This was at the first ever Super Hooligan event in Las Vegas where the winner won a brand new motorcycle. I stunk in the heat race and didn’t qualify for the Main and a few of us started partying in the pits much to the dismay of the professional racers and teams that were parked next to us.
“I failed photography classes in high school and community college because I always interpreted assignments my own way instead of following the rules.”
Upper Left: Ed (14) and Pops(37) in the SoCal desert way back in the day
Lower Left: Ed testing a new bike in Colorado for an ADV bike magazine article.
Upper Right: Racing in the Hell On Wheels Halloween Hillclimb dressed as a Taco.
Center Right: Rooftop gap jump on the BMX bike, 20 something plus years ago when Ed’s fear and good judgement were lacking.
