News:

New Round added to ASRA schedule: VIR North Course

Main Menu

Recent posts

#1
Safe for work / Passwords - how good are they ...
Last post by Biketographer - Today at 07:37:28 AM
Very informative analysis of passwords and a lot of information on how they are 'guessed.'
https://www.hivesystems.com/blog/are-your-passwords-in-the-green

#1 thing is never re-use a password on any other site or software. 

What I question a great deal about this Hivesystems.com article is that they do not mention the log-in rate limit.  You have likely experienced the "too many login attempts: locked out for 10 minutes" because, hey, our fingers do not always hit the keys we intended.  So the hacking computers can not really try hundreds of times per second.

I worked one place that implemented new password policy.  It was the stupidest in the world.  We had to create a new password every 14 days, even if you were on a 21 day vacation.  They required all the stupid uppercase/lowercase/special-character/numbers rules and the worst part it could not contain a word in the English dictionary.  

So how did most of the employees deal with it?  They wrote the passcode on a post-it note and stuck it to the monitor.  I swear, I walked around the cubicles and half of them had the post-it note in plain view.

There are 175,000 words in the English dictionary on my shelf.  Use three words (that do not make a sentence or recognizable phrase) and you have 175,000 x 175,000 x 175,000 possibilities;  that is 5,359,375,000,000,000 possible combinations, even if you used all lowercase letters.  Use four English language words increases that to 937,890,625,000,000,000,000 possible word combinations.  And that's if you TOLD them you used four English language words and all lower-case letters.

Most of the "hacking" that I have heard about is due to re-used passwords.  Think about it, how many websites etc, want your username to be your email address?  Most!  When a database is breached, the bad people's computers just start trying your email address and that password 'everywhere.'

Some sites, including this one, allow your username to be different from your log-in name.  So the hacking computers might be trying your username and would still be unaware of your log-in name.

Do you use a 'password manager' program?  I never will.  Someday some machine will find a way into password managers.  When they do, they will have ALL of your passwords and logins.

Now I would like to say what I believe is your most important passwords;  your email password !  Seems like every website,etc, has a 'reset password' function and they work by sending a link to your email.  So when, someday, the hacking industry gets your email address (it is everywhere) and your email password, it will be only a matter of minutes that they have changed all your passwords.

Your thoughts ?
#2
Motorcycle Talk / New Hepco & Becker Accessories...
Last post by Biketographer - Today at 06:30:52 AM
Built for Real-World Riding: German-Made Luggage and Protection for the BMW R12 G/S

STERLING, Va., Jan. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Moto Machines, a US importer and distributor of premium motorcycle parts and accessories, is proud to announce the release of new Hepco & Becker products for the BMW R12 G/S.

Hepco & Becker is internationally recognized for German-engineered durability, premium fitment, and real-world touring functionality. They have a long history in the motorcycle industry, manufacturing the original Krauser luggage for BMW motorcycles such as the iconic BMW R80 G/S (1980-1987)—the very same bike which inspired today's R12 G/S. With the BMW R12 G/S being ready for everything from weekend exploring to long-distance travel, these new accessories enhance the bike's protection, cargo capability, and everyday versatility.

"BMW's R12 G/S is made for those who want classic character with modern usability," said "Ed Stiley" at Moto Machines. "With Hepco & Becker's latest protection and luggage solutions, riders can confidently build a setup that's ready for the road, backroads, and more."

Hepco & Becker Accessories Now Available

    Crash Bars
    Skid Plate
    Headlight Guard
    Handlebar Guards
    C-Bow Side Carrier
    Rear Smartrack
    Kardan Protection
    Tank Bag

Find out more and shop the Full Collection on the website!
https://www.motomachines.com/shop-by-bike/bmw-motorcycles/r12-gs-accessories

About Hepco & Becker
Hepco & Becker is a German manufacturer that has been in business for over 50 years; specializing in motorcycle protection, luggage systems, and touring solutions. Known for precision engineering and long-term reliability, Hepco & Becker products are trusted by adventure and touring riders worldwide.

About Moto Machines
Moto Machines is a family-owned business that imports and distributes premium motorcycle brands such as Hepco & Becker. They offer a curated selection of top-tier brands, expert fitment support, and fast shipping to help riders build their version of the ultimate bike.

Contact:
Email: info@motomachines.com
Website: www.motomachines.com
#3
Racing Discussion / Tickets Now on Sale for 2026 L...
Last post by Biketographer - January 23, 2026, 04:58:44 PM
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 23, 2026) – Mees Promotions is happy to announce that tickets for the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season events at the Lima Half-Mile powered by Parts Unlimited and the Springfield Mile powered by Parts Unlimited are officially on sale. Both legendary venues will host high-stakes doubleheader weekends featuring the return of the fan-favorite Mission Triple Challenge on the first of each event.

The Mission Triple Challenge brings an exciting shakeup to the schedule, turning up the heat with three races of escalating intensity and challenge points to determine each event's ultimate victor. For the 2026 season, the Mission Triple Challenge will headline the opening day of action at both the Allen County Fairgrounds and the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

In a commitment to fan value, Mees Promotions is offering an automatic $20 discount for all 2-day event packages. Additionally, in a major update for the 2026 season, there will be no charge for parking at either the Lima or Springfield events.

Event Schedule and Ticketing

Lima Half-Mile powered by Parts Unlimited I & II (June 26-27, 2026)

    2-Day Event Package ($20 Savings): Purchase Here
    Day 1 (Mission Triple Challenge): Purchase Here
    Day 2: Purchase Here

Springfield Mile powered by Parts Unlimited I & II (Sept 5-6, 2026)

    2-Day Event Package ($20 Savings): Purchase Here
    Day 1 (Mission Triple Challenge): Purchase Here
    Day 2: Purchase Here

VIP and Fan Experience Upgrades

Fans looking to elevate their weekend can choose the VIP Experience, which includes a reserved grandstand seat, access to a VIP room with a catered meal, five alcoholic beverages, and a pit pass.

For general admission and reserved seat holders, Pit Passes ($40) are available as a standalone add-on. Please note that pit passes are not included in standard tickets this year; fans can add them via the pop-up box after selecting their seats on the Tixr platform. For 2-day package holders, ensure both Day 1 and Day 2 add-ons are selected if you wish to have pit access for the full weekend.

Camping and Facilities

    Lima Camping: Available on a first-come, first-served basis at the track for $50 per night. Sites include water and electric hookups.
    Springfield Camping: Managed by the Illinois State Fairgrounds. For camping inquiries, fans must contact the facility directly at 217-524-9894.

For assistance with ticket purchases or seating questions, please contact Mees Promotions at 419-991-1491 (Lima), 217-632-0277 (Springfield), or via email at Meespromotions@gmail.com.

Jeffrey Carver Jr. (123) leads the field at the Springfield Mile. [Photo: Tim Lester/AMA Pro Racing]

Springfield+Mile-Small_1c36.jpg
#4
Racing Discussion / IRVING VINCENT “P5”
Last post by Biketographer - January 23, 2026, 09:14:57 AM

SPECIFICATIONS

    1300cc 2-Valve

    Bore: 100mm

    Stroke: 82.55

    Compression Ratio: 13:1

    BHP: 160 at 7000 RPM

    Torque: 125 ft-lb at 6000 RPM

    ACCOMPLISHMENTS

        Lap Record P5 Historic: Eastern Creek

from Australia Motorcycle News: https://amcn.com.au/editorial/super-hooligans-2026-irving-vincent/
QuoteEighteen years after their unforgettable Battle of the Twins victory, the Irving Vincent team is returning to Daytona with a familiar rider, a reunited crew and a two-valve, air-cooled V-twin built for one of the toughest racetracks in the world
In March 2008 Craig McMartin rode a hand-built Australian air-cooled twin to a landmark Battle of the Twins victory at Daytona International Speedway. It was a win that stunned the locals, elevated the Irving Vincent project onto the world stage and proved that two brothers from Melbourne – Ken and Barry Horner – could take on the high banks of Daytona and leave with a winner's trophy. Eighteen years later, the team is going back.

more information: https://www.irvingvincent.com/motorcycles
#5
Motorcycle Talk / INDIAN MOTORCYCLE NEW CHIEF VI...
Last post by Biketographer - January 23, 2026, 09:07:22 AM
Taking Design Cues from the 1940s, 2026 Chief Vintage Recalls the Style and Craftsmanship of America's Golden Age of Motorcycling

MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- In the wake of kicking off its year-long 125th anniversary celebration, Indian Motorcycle today unveiled the 2026 Indian Chief Vintage – honoring its heritage by reimagining a timeless classic into a new icon for today's riders. Inspired by the 1940s Chief, its flowing valanced fenders and unmistakable silhouette pay tribute to Indian Motorcycle's roots, while the Thunderstroke motor delivers the power and presence that set today's standard. Built with thoughtful, American craftsmanship and obsessive attention to detail, Chief Vintage reflects Indian Motorcycle's Never Finished spirit, defined by fearlessness, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to provide riders the choice they've always deserved in American motorcycling.

A striking tribute to an American classic from the heart of the golden age of motorcycling, the new Chief Vintage fuses classic design with power, precision, and innovation that has defined the brand for 125 years. More than a motorcycle, the 2026 Chief Vintage is a legend reborn for the road ahead.

"Indian Chiefs from the 1940s remain one of the most recognizable and celebrated motorcycles in American history," said Ola Stenegärd, Design Director for Indian Motorcycle. "With its iconic V-Twin engine, valanced fenders, and unparalleled reliability, the Chief set a standard for performance and design that resonates today. It represents the spirit of Indian Motorcycle – bold, timeless, and always pushing forward."

Honoring its iconic lineage, the Chief Vintage seamlessly blends a timeless design with modern performance and technology. Celebrating its 125th anniversary, Chief Vintage stands as a statement: The legacy of Indian Motorcycle isn't a finish line, it's a launchpad.

Timeless Design
With sculpted lines that pay homage to post-war classics, Chief Vintage looks as though it rolled straight off the original Springfield, Mass., production line in the 1940s. Its unmistakable Indian Motorcycle valanced front fender is complemented by the iconic lit headdress ornament, while a narrow rear subframe and Vintage Handlebars reference the era's timeless designs. The bike's Vintage Solo Seat is reimagined for superior comfort and ergonomic support, while wire-spoke wheels complete the timeless American design.

Featuring heritage in every detail, the finish on the Chief Vintage's Thunderstroke engine captures the spirit of 1940s craftsmanship with non-machined black cylinders and silver-painted cylinder heads and pushrod tubes. These painted components and non-machined fins pay tribute to the raw aluminum finishes found on the original Chief models.

Collectively, the valanced fenders, Vintage Solo Seat, Vintage Handlebars, engine details and wire wheels are not just retro touches: they're the design cues that defined an era.

Modern Performance & Technology
Chief Vintage delivers modern performance and technology wrapped in heritage. Powering the Chief Vintage is Indian Motorcycle's air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 V-Twin engine, delivering 120 ft-lbs of torque for effortless passing power in every gear. Three selectable ride modes (Tour, Standard, and Sport) allow riders to tailor throttle response to their preference for a personalized experience.

Delivering industry-leading technology, Chief Vintage is equipped with Indian Motorcycle's 4-inch Round Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND. The 2026 system features an all-new software, improving startup time and loading times by approximately 25 percent. The new software, now available for all Scout and Chief models with the 4-inch Round Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND, introduces Indian Motorcycle's App Enhanced Navigation, delivering seamless integration between a rider's mobile phone and their on-bike display. With App Enhanced Navigation, riders can intuitively search for destinations on their phone via platforms like Google Maps, Waze and Apple Maps and send them directly via Bluetooth® LE to their bike's display.

Riders can operate Indian Motorcycle's 4-inch Round Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND via hand controls or the full-color IPS touchscreen. The display offers multiple interface options, including two gauge configurations, detailed bike and ride information, and turn-by-turn navigation with connected services, such as live weather and traffic overlays. If using a wireless helmet communicator, riders can control their music within the RIDE COMMAND system once their phone is paired via Bluetooth® or USB. Riders can also access phone information, including recent calls, contacts, number pad and text message history. When connected, incoming calls will appear and can be accepted or declined directly through the RIDE COMMAND system.

Authentic Accessories

Comfort & Style
Launching with Chief Vintage is a curated selection of premium accessories designed to elevate every ride. Riders can equip front Highway Bars for low-speed tip-over protection and add Highway Bar Lower Closeouts to reduce wind buffeting and shield against road debris. The 17.8-inch Quick Release Low Windshield delivers added wind protection while maintaining a sleek, low-profile aesthetic. Prioritizing practicality and comfort, Indian Motorcycle's durable, weather-resistant Vinyl Saddlebags provide more than five gallons of storage per bag. Complementing the collection, select Premium Handle Grips elevate both style and tactile feel, while available rider floorboards offer a wider, more stable platform for increased comfort and control.

For two-up riding and all-day comfort, riders can pair the Classic Solo Seat with a matching Passenger Pillion. A Passenger Touring Backrest Pad can also be added, enhancing comfort and making two-up riding more accessible—all without compromising the bike's classic styling.

Performance & Technology
Chief Vintage includes a range of premium accessories designed to elevate both performance and rider safety. The Pathfinder 5¾-inch Adaptive LED headlight delivers exceptional illumination, automatically adjusting for turns and providing an added layer of safety during night riding. The precision-engineered Chief Stage 1 Slip-On Exhaust produces a deep, powerful tone while improving acceleration and throttle response. Complementing the exhaust, the slash cut tips add bold visual flair and enhance the exhaust growl, with the Thunderstroke Stage 1 High-Flow Air Intake improving engine breathing for smoother, more responsive power delivery.

Starting at $19,999, the 2026 Indian Chief Vintage is available in Black Metallic and Indian Motorcycle Red and will be arriving at dealerships in March.
#6
Racing Discussion / AHRMA vintage flat track Feb 2...
Last post by Biketographer - January 22, 2026, 06:43:16 AM
https://southerndirttrackassociation.com/ hosting Antique & Historic Motorcycle Racina Assoc. flat track races.

7197 NW Gainesville Road, Ocala, Fl
#7
Racing Discussion / Sons of Speed Vintage Racing F...
Last post by Biketographer - January 22, 2026, 06:32:09 AM
New Smyrna speedway, Florida
February 28, 2026
Gates open 10:30
Races 13:00

see photos from 2019 here.
#8
Motorcycle Talk / March Moto Madness 26 – 29 Mar...
Last post by old.racer - January 20, 2026, 04:27:08 PM
MARCH MOTO MADNESS IS AN OLD SCHOOL RALLY HOSTED BY RIDERS FOR RIDERS.  NO MATTER WHAT YOU RIDE WE HAVE A SPOT FOR YOU.  GREAT SITE, FANTASTIC RIDES, GAMES, FOOD, MUSIC AND MORE. COME RIDE AND PLAY WITH US


Tent Camping at MMM by MOTO CAMP NERD
Camp where you wish or if you prefer to go "old school"  for 2026 and beyond we're designating the south field to be nylon only by three wheels or less.  No RV's, street lights or generators!  Plenty of trees for hammocks and we're adding a small shelter of sorts, some picnic tables and a nice big fire pit.  Thanks to Moto Camp Nerd we're also dropping the price for guests who arrive and live off their motorcycle, trike or sidecar!

https://marchmotomadness.com/
#9
Racing Discussion / 2026 DAKAR RALLY POLARIS' THIR...
Last post by Biketographer - January 20, 2026, 08:49:18 AM
Too many wheels, but some people may find this interesting.....

QuoteMINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- After covering nearly 5,000 kilometers (3,045 miles) across 13 grueling stages, Polaris' RZR Factory Racing program, in partnership with LOEB FrayMédia Motorsport (LFM), again dominated the Side-by-Side (SSV) class with a third consecutive overall victory at the 48th running of the 2026 Dakar Rally. In their second showing at the event, the all-American duo of Brock Heger and navigator Max Eddy Jr. returned to the Saudi Arabian desert and once again delivered a masterclass in precision and endurance, earning their second consecutive class win behind the wheel of the dominant Polaris RZR Pro R Rally race machine, designed to meet the new FIA rule changes.


Widely regarded as the most demanding race in the world, this year's Dakar saw Heger and Eddy lead nearly the entire 13-stage event, ultimately claiming victory by over an hour. In only his second showing at the event, Heger once again delivered a historic performance, securing an unprecedented six stage victories, including the prologue. In addition, Heger finished on the podium two more times, earned two additional top-five results, and only finished outside the top five just four times throughout the entire event. Adding to Polaris' remarkable performance, SLR teammate and 2024 SSV champion Xavier de Soultrait, also piloting a RZR Pro R Rally, rounded out the podium with a third-place overall finish.

2026_Dakar_Rally.jpg

"Coming back to Dakar for my second year and being able to win again is absolutely incredible, and I could not be more grateful for Polaris, LFM and our entire crew," said Brock Heger. "This race pushes you in every possible way, and to come out on top again is something I'm really proud of. Max and I work seamlessly together. His navigation was spot on from start to finish, and that trust and communication between us made all the difference over two demanding weeks. The RZR Pro R Rally performed flawlessly every single day. It's a machine that's truly unmatched, and it just keeps getting better and better. Having a vehicle you can trust completely at Dakar is everything, and Polaris delivered exactly that."



Heger made an immediate statement for the second consecutive year by winning the prologue, securing a critical advantage heading into Stage 1. When the competition officially kicked off, teammate Xavier de Soultrait showcased his experience as the reigning 2024 Dakar winner, driving flawlessly to claim the Stage 1 victory and take the early overall lead. De Soultrait continued his strong run in Stage 2 with a second-place finish, while Heger placed fifth, maintaining De Soultrait's advantage in the standings. From Stage 3 onward, Heger and Eddy shifted into command, capturing back-to-back stage wins to seize the overall lead. From that point forward, the duo never looked back, methodically guiding their Polaris RZR Pro R Rally through the unforgiving Saudi Arabian desert. Heger went on to claim additional stage victories in Stages 8, 10, and 11, while adding a third-place finish in Stage 5 and a fourth-place result in Stage 7, cementing a commanding and consistent performance from start to finish.



The standout performance underscored the precision engineering of the Polaris RZR Pro R Rally, which delivered the reliability, power, and agility required to conquer Dakar's treacherous terrain. When the dust settled, Heger and Eddy completed the marathon rally in 55 hours, 11 minutes, and 56 seconds, more than four hours faster than last year's winning time.





With new FIA regulations in place for the SSV class, Polaris engineered the RZR Pro R Rally to meet stringent homologation requirements while preserving the race-winning performance and durability that define the platform. Built around a largely stock-based chassis and bodywork, the vehicle retains key production RZR Pro R components, including the engine, driveline, and suspension, highlighting the inherent strength of the consumer platform. Enhanced suspension control and precise handling allow the RZR Pro R Rally to conquer the harshest terrain mile after mile, delivering the reliability, endurance, and performance required to secure victory in the world's most demanding rally conditions.

"To kick off the new year with a third consecutive Dakar Rally victory is truly an incredible achievement for both Polaris and Loeb FrayMedia Motorsport," said Alex Scheuerell, Polaris' Director of Off-Road Motorsports. "This partnership has been the recipe for dominance at Dakar, and to come away victorious again is incredibly rewarding. Because of the new rule changes in the SSV class, the team spent countless days and nights over the past year refining and evolving our platform. Seeing Brock and Max deliver another virtually flawless performance, along with Xavier securing a third-place finish on the podium, is a true testament to that hard work. They overcame some of the most intense conditions imaginable, and I can't thank everyone at Polaris and LFM enough for the dedication and effort that made this victory possible."



In addition to Heger's victory and De Soultrait's third-place finish, the crew of Johan Kristoffersson and navigator Ola Fløene delivered a strong performance behind the wheel of the RZR Pro R Factory T4, finishing eighth overall in Kristoffersson's first Dakar Rally appearance. The duo recorded three podium stage finishes along with an additional top-five result. Florent Vayssade's rally was highlighted by a second-place finish in Stage 2, while young driver Gonçalo Guerreiro and navigator Maykel Justo put together an impressive and consistent run, earning one stage victory, two podium finishes, and three additional top-five stage results before being forced to retire following Stage 8 after a collision with another racer.



Collectively, these performances showcased the depth, strength, and unity of the Polaris and Loeb FrayMédia Motorsports, reinforcing their dominance at one of the most demanding motorsport events in the world.

To learn more, please visit Polaris.com/RZR or join the conversation and follow on Facebook sm, Instagram sm, YouTube sm and Xsm. To follow the Loeb FrayMédia Motorsports team, check them out on Instagram sm.



About Polaris
As the global leader in powersports, Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII) pioneers product breakthroughs and enriching experiences and services that have invited people to discover the joy of being outdoors since our founding in 1954. Polaris' high-quality product line-up includes the RANGER, RZR and Polaris XPEDITION and GENERAL side-by-side off-road vehicles; Sportsman all-terrain off-road vehicles; military and commercial off-road vehicles; snowmobiles; Indian Motorcycle mid-size and heavyweight motorcycles; Slingshot moto-roadsters; Aixam quadricycles; Goupil electric vehicles; and pontoon and deck boats, including industry-leading Bennington pontoons. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a robust portfolio of parts, garments, and accessories. Headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves nearly 100 countries across the globe. www.polaris.com
#10
Motorcycle Talk / OHV riding place Bunnell, FL
Last post by old.racer - January 18, 2026, 12:16:03 PM
Florida Cracker Ranch is a family oriented outdoor adventure club located in Flagler County. We offer families a wide range of outdoor adventures including ATVs, camping, horse trails, fishing, swamp buggy area, dirt bike area, mudding, and much more. Because of this, it is of the upmost importance to slowly integrate all ideas to ensure that a well thought out plan exists, creating outdoor fun for everyone. Our plan includes implementing Florida Outdoor Adventure Membership levels for year round use, all while preserving the land and history of this pristine piece of old Florida. Florida Cracker Ranch is a family club, where communities near and far can enjoy the outdoors. https://centralfloridaoffroad.com/about-us-2/