April 2018

W H A T ’ S

I N S I D E

MO NT HLY C O L U M NS FREE WHEELIN’ ..................................................3 WHATCHATHINKIN’ ...........................................4 POSTCARDS FROM THE HEDGE.......................5 ON THE MARK ....................................................6 THOUGHTS FROM THE ROAD ..........................7 BACKLASH..........................................................8 INDUSTRY INFOBITES.......................................9 MYSTERIOUS AMERICA..................................12 BIG CITY GETAWAY .........................................14 GREAT ALL AMERICAN DINER RUN ..............16 WE’RE OUTTA HERE ........................................18 WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE ............................20 INSIDE SCOOP .................................................22 UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR ...................48

Motorcycles, Travel & Adventure

24 32 37

FE AT U RE S FALL FIESTA 2017 RECAP ...............................24 LITTLE BIT OF SUMMER IN FEBRUARY ........32 CLASS OF 2017 ................................................37 SPRING BREAK 2018 NEWS ...........................45

PR O DU C T R E V IE W S NATIONAL CYCLES MOHAWK SHIELD .........13 CRUZTOOLS SWIPE ........................................21 MOSKO FATTY TOOL ROLL ............................30 VAMPLIERS ......................................................31 REVIEWS AND SPOTLIGHTS.....................34-36

We want to send out a HUGE thank you to our neighbors Lisa and Michael who became Backroads North during the storm that took out our power without you two this issue would not have gotten done.

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Brian rathjen • Shira Kamil

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Mark Byers, Bill heald, Cheryl Stewart, Dr. Seymour O’Life

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BaCKrOaDS (iSSn 1087-2088) is published monthly by BaCKrOaDS™, inc. 2018. all rights reserved. BaCKrOaDS™ may not be reproduced in any manner without specific written consent from the publisher. BaCKrOaDS™ welcomes and encourages submissions (text and photos) and suggestions. include phone number with submissions. BaCKrOaDS™ will only return material with enclosed sufficient postage. the written articles and opinions printed in BaCKrOaDS™ are not necessarily those of the publisher and should not be considered an endorsement. the rip & rides® published are ridden on the sole responsibilty of the rider. BaCKrOaDS™ is not responsible for the conditions of the public roadways traversed. Please respect the environment, read your owner’s manual and wear proper protective gear and helmet. ride within your limits, not over them.

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

FREE WHEELIN’ Brian rathjen Tossing The BaBy ouT WiTh The BaTh WaTer We have all heard this phrase before.

It has been around for a long, long time and it find its roots from a German proverb, “das Kind mit dem Bade ausschütten.”

The earliest record of this phrase is in 1512, in Narrenbeschwörung (Appeal to Fools) by Thomas Murner as this book includes a woodcut illustration showing a woman tossing a baby out with wastewater.

The same wood cutting has a guy taking a dukey as well – but that is another idiom – Don’t crap in your own backyards and we will save that for another Free Wheelin’.

This phrase crossed my mind when I went about one of my mid-winter traditions – actually washing my riding suit. In this case a bright and protective Aerostich Roadcrafter suit in gray with high-viz ballistics.

I am not sure how many riders actually take care of their gear on a regular basis. Like anything, your riding suits, gloves, boots and helmet all need a little TLC now and again.

Some things are easy to handle and should be done on a daily, or at least every few days, routine, such as your helmet. When we park for the night both our helmets get put on a shelf with foam rings to keep them from rolling around – first we give the shield and most of the helmet a good cleaning with Plexus or some sort of equivalent and then the Bluetooth comms are plugged in to charge up for the next adventure.

Boots don’t get as much love and kisses, but giving them a cleaning and

Page 3 polishing helps to keep them at least a bit fresher and shiny.

Gloves can always use a bit of leather cleaning too – it keeps them supple and helps with water-resistance as well.

This brings me to the mission at hand.

Washing the suit – which is not a thing to do lightly as it takes some time and a little preparation too.

With my Roadcrafter suit, I first remove everything from the pockets and I check that twice – as I constantly get the “stink eye” from Shira when I leave a tissue or coin in my pockets and cause mayhem when she does laundry.

Then all the armor comes out of the suit’s jacket and pants. I mark each piece with blue painters tape, labeling what goes where and which side is up.

Then the zippers are zipped, pockets closed and I head to the machines.

These days I use Nikwax Tech Wash – which is excellent for riding gear to do the initial wash.

After that is done I run the suit back through a cycle, this time using Revivex Wash-In Waterproofing to help for the rainy days that I am sure to run into this season.

Both of these are available from Aerostich and various camping outlets.

Follow the directions and all should be good. Before you do – check those pockets again – trust me.

While doing this first step, with my suit submerged in a Nikwax solution of suds, I stopped the machine to let it soak for a few minutes.

Looking down I could see how much dirt, grime and filth had come off the suit and was floating around in the tub.

Continued on Page 11

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

WHATCHATHINKIN’ Shira KaMiL

This and ThaT The end is in sight – the driveway, which up until today was being used for the US Curling Team, is sufficiently passable and, barring any more ice/snow events, the motorcycles are free to roam. Of course, Brian is able to get any bike out in almost all conditions; I am a whole other story.

This past week has been occupied with keeping half an eye on some of the Olympic events as well as my alltime favorite non-motorcycle competition, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. I won’t go into it again except to say that IMHO the winner was a fluff ball and not up to Best in Show compared to its competitors. Okay, sure, the Bichon certainly was cute, with its cotton ball look and prancy step, but just LOOK at the majestic stance and muscle of the Giant Schnauzer; how could he not have won?

We were given a small respite from the February chill with a couple of days well above 50 degrees. As soon as the fog dispersed, Brian and I were out in the garage, primping and prepping for a lunch ride to meet some folks, who we hadn’t seen for a while, at the Sky Café in Pittstown, NJ. It’s amazing how quickly the motorcycles return to the tarmac when the smell of spring is in the air. With the Daytona 500 in the books (quite the wreckage of a race), which is my marker for the beginning of warmer weather up north, the battery charging plugs are pulled, the bikes are given a quick wipe with the microfiber, and for many, the first real ride of the season is under way. Backroads Central sits on a fairly heavily trafficked motorcycle road, and for the better part of the afternoon all manner of two-wheeled fun were zipping by. I liken it to the hibernating animals returning to the real world, and hope that they all make it across the road (how did that skunk get hit on that deserted road?) The next day was back to the February norm, but for that one day, we were basking in the sun and the company of riding friends.

Speaking of weather and its fickleness, I have about six weather apps on my phone and am constantly searching for the ultimate in predicting perfect weather. I came across an article in Outside magazine rating apps and, of the top four that they listed, I had two (now three) of their suggestions. How many times have you seen a forecast for a few days from now, calling for a picture-perfect day, and planned to play hooky for a mental health day of riding only to have that day dawn gray, rainy and far from what was promised. Disappointment fills the soul and you trudge off to work, never emerging from the gray mood the clouds have set.

When watching the local channel’s weather person, have you ever heard them say that tomorrow is going to be a great day to be out on your motorcycle? Heck no! It’s golf this, hiking that, get your boat out blahblah-blah. To try and fix this, I added an app called Wunderground. Quoting from the Outside review, ‘Search “weather” in the App Store and you’ll be bombarded with an endless scroll of options—from radar imagery good enough for meteorologists to an app that shows you a different picture of a kitten every time you check the weather. Seriously. Weather kittens. But if you’re using that app to plan an adventure, or even just figuring out when you should walk the dog, you’re going to need more than just cute kittens.’

There are several good things about Wunderground, first of which is it’s free. It uses NEXRAD radar (operated by the National Weather Service) as well as personal weather stations around the world, each having their own instruments that gauge temperature, humidity, pressure, rain fall and wind speed. This brings you trustworthy radar imaging and real time reports from the station closest to you. What I loved was the ability to create my own Smart Forecast with specific parameters for my outdoor activity – motorcycling. I have it so it will let me know when my acceptable and ideal conditions are met: temperature, rain and wind. I have pretty much relied on Dark Sky (free on Android/ $3.99 on iOS) as my go-to weather predictor, but I’m really liking the look and accuracy of Wunderground.

So, here’s to clear blue skies, smooth pavement or awesome trails, whichever brings that big grin to your face. And now you can always take the weather with you, or at least know which direction to head to find it.

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

POSTCARDS FROM THE HEDGE BiLL heaLD

The arT of ConTrapology I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: There are two kinds of people. The first type thinks there are two kinds of people, and the second type thinks that’s ridiculous. For the purposes of this lecture, I will abandon my usual tribe of the latter philosophy and enter the camp of the former. And what are these two kinds of people, then? Those that keep things box-stock, and those who customize with wild abandon. The stockers have their attributes, to be sure, as they tend to keep things as the manufacturer created them so as to use the motorcycle the way it was intended. This strategy often includes meticulous maintenance practices, and thus excellent reliability. In case you haven’t noticed, when you join the “two kinds of people” philosophy you get to make sweeping generalizations.

In fact, it’s encouraged.

Anyway, the other type of people are much more entertaining, for they have various levels of obsession when it comes to the alteration of stock machinery. At the bottom rung we have the vast majority of the riding community, and they tend to make carefully considered alterations to their ride that usually revolve around the application of OEM accessories. Since several manufacturers, especially Harley and BMW, have huge catalogs filled with well-engineered adornments and performance enhancers that typically bolt right on (and actually fit and function perfectly), this is a substantial group of riders. True, some do tend to eventually get out of hand, for as the disease progresses they dive deep into the aftermarket and roughly double the curb weight of their machine. One thing leads to another you see, and when you get the windshield you HAVE to get the lower seat to maximize its effectiveness, right? Of course.

Page 5 But this is nothing compared to driven creations of the true artist, the mechanical sculptor, the odd duck in his overstuffed garage that fills the night with the screams of power tools and foul language. Here we find the mind to which accessories have no meaning, for the machine should be rendered such that little of the original chassis can be seen, or even recognized. Behold the Contraptologist, whose only equivalent in the world of human physiology is Victor Frankenstein. Now that Spring is trying oh so hard to emerge, I have observed many a winter project escape from its cocoon and fly free among the other bikes and reveal the mind of a true inventor. Or, when the machine in question is an abomination, it exposes the brain of a real nutcase (depending on your taste for metal). The first type is more sedate and therefore less revealing, but the second type is a true mirror into the soul of the builder.

You can tell so much about a person who builds a trike with a Subaru engine, that rides on some sort of crude frame cut from a hay wagon and is finished with a log cabin poised on top of it all as a “cab”. Such a Road Warrior displays not only an aptitude for mechanical engineering but for carpentry, interpretive dance and taxidermy as well. As something of a purist when it comes to motorcycles, I am initially revulsed by such shocking transports as they roll towards me. But like a ballet of pachyderms going through an airport lobby, I must stare and absorb. How do such things roll?

What happens when they hit a pothole? Is there a reverse, and from whence came the gearbox? How much motorcycle is there, anyway? I witness a Springer front end from a recent Harley mishap, so there’s that. Familiar bits and bobs flashed by, and yet I feel the Creator was unable to leave unmolested even the simplest component. There’s a fine line between stupid and clever, or so says the chapter on Art of Motorcycle Manipulation in the book of Spinal Tap. One other part of this design puzzle that tasks me is the observation of the age of those that have built some of the more extreme rat bikes, choppers, and ground-bound gyrocopters. There are exceptions of course, but for the Continued on Page 11

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

Nowhere is the mentality greater than the issue of helmets. Another frank admission: there are times when I move a motorcycle without a helmet.

MarK ByerS Oh…my…gawd! Typically, you find me doing it as I move a dirt bike from where I washed it in the driveway into the shed where I keep it. I am well aware of the risk I undertake: there is a chance that something innocuous The unforgiven will trip me and I’ll land on my head and suffer a serious injury or death. I Have you ever done something get it and I wouldn’t exit my cul-de-sac without one, but at least around the risky? I have. Each of us has a line we’ve drawn on the risk/reward curve house, I get to choose my own level of risk. and that picture is very different depending on who we are. There are those In my mind’s eye, I can already see someone rushing to his keyboard to who will not ride at night because their perception of the risk of hitting a type a reply to this esteemed publication to excoriate me for being so brash nocturnal animal is too high. Personally, the only deer I’ve hit in 43 years of as to admit that I have anything other than a 100% ATGATT approach to riding was at 8:30 AM, but everyone’s experiences and prejudices are difrisk. Perhaps someone will feel so aggrieved as to cancel their subscription ferent. There are riders who won’t go near a track on a motorcycle, even for as a result of my frankness. People who know me will tell you that I am a a school, because of the perceived risk and professional who takes a very conservative there are professional Gran Prix motorcyclists here’s no reasonableness, just an overdevel- approach to risk, but there are wound colwho won’t ride on the road. Some revere the oped sense of righteousness and an unwill- lectors who will look at my admissions as Isle of Man TT as a pinnacle of motorsport and ingness to let a perceived “crime” go the damning confessions of a fool. some revile it as a bloodbath. Risk is personal. unanswered. To them, everything is an abLet’s be real: the Backroads’ ethos is to Nowhere is risk more personal than in the sesolute. Hmmm, I could be talking about a lot treat motorcycling with respect and advolection of riding gear. I know people who of things, but let’s stick to motorcycling. cate a reliance on ATGATT to prevent inwouldn’t dream of riding without a helmet, but jury should something go awry. There are who think jeans and a denim jacket are always suitable protection for their similar positions on noise and riding behavior, especially when they endanger torsos. I will readily admit that there are times every year that I elect to wear others or cause our group to be painted in an unfavorable light. But if you a helmet, gloves, jacket, and boots, but forgo the special pants for a local ride move your bike at a rally from one parking space to another without your of a reasonably short distance. OH MY GAWD! A Backroads scribe just adhelmet, I won’t treat it as unforgivable or “run to tell mom.” There are no mitted to a less than 100% adherence to ATGATT (All The Gear, All The absolutes. What will get my dander up is when your risk decisions out on Time)!!! There might be people who read this and write impassioned emails the road start affecting the rest of the group. If there’s something you are or even threaten to cancel their subscriptions. doing that I perceive is egregious, I’ll probably approach you quietly with An article in Psychology Today called them wound collectors - “…indimy observations. I’d ask the same of you. viduals who go out of their way to collect slights and grievances, injustices Acceptance of risk is a very personal thing and there are folks out there or wrongs, real or imagined.” I see it all the time in internet forums, where who view anyone who accepts a different level than they do as either foolsomeone has to be the kid who says, “Awwwwwww, you did something hardy or too conservative. George Carlin reportedly said, “Have you ever wrong, I’m TELLING!” There’s no reasonableness, just an overdeveloped noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going sense of righteousness and an unwillingness to let a perceived “crime” go faster than you is a maniac?” Let he who is without sin cast the first stone. unanswered. To them, everything is an absolute. Hmmm, I could be talking about a lot of things, but let’s stick to motorcycling.

ON THE MARK

T

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

THOUGHTS FROM THE ROAD CongesTion priCing in nyC Will affeCT you You may have heard by now that it could cost as much as $11.52 to drive your passenger car into Manhattan anywhere below 60th St. That’s the area that Governor Cuomo and his FixNYC Panel have called the Central Business District. Traffic in that part of NYC certainly does suck. The idea behind congestion pricing is that a prohibitively large toll is expected to deter people from driving into Manhattan unless they absolutely must. The revenue raised is supposed to fund repairs to NYC’s subways.

You may not have heard that the proposed congestion pricing plan does not exclude scooters and motorcycles from this toll. As of this writing, the plan doesn’t even offer two-wheeled vehicles a discount. Under the proposed plan all passenger vehicles, from tiny scooters to large SUVs, would pay the same hefty toll. After the plan was announced Riders Against Congestion, which includes NYC’s AMA District Rep and representatives from the New York Motorcycle and Scooter Task Force, as well as from the Sirens Women’s Motorcycle Club, sat down with Sam Schwartz, noted traffic consultant and architect of the proposed FixNYC plan. Sam apologized and honestly told us that the FixNYC panel simply forgot about us when designing the plan.

The stated goal of Governor Cuomo’s FixNYC plan is to reduce congestion in Manhattan’s CBD. The goal of our meeting with Sam Schwartz was to remind him that our fuel efficient motorcycles and scooters are potent tools for congestion reduction, and therefore should be 100% excluded from congestion tolling. We were surprised that he required a reminder since Schwartz himself had authored a study in 2008, commissioned by Piaggio, which demonstrated tremendous traffic reductions achievable with a mode shift to 20% two-wheeled vehicles in NYC’s traffic mix. Schwartz’s prescient report recommended an exclusion or a steep reduction from any future congestion tolls for two-wheeled vehicles, as is done in London, in order to encourage the mode shift from traditional passenger vehicles to two-wheeled vehicles.

One of the primary tools utilized in London’s successful congestion pricing

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Cheryl Stewart plan, as with successful congestion reduction efforts undertaken in cities such as Stockholm and Milan, has been full exclusion from congestion tolling for motorbikes. London’s city planners recognize that our vehicles are part of the traffic congestion solution and actively encourage use of two-wheeled vehicles instead of autos. Not only are motorbikes exempted from London’s substantial congestion fee, two-wheeled vehicles park for free on all roadways in the congestion zone. That makes perfect sense when you consider that six scooters and motorcycles can park in the space occupied by one SUV. London’s congestion pricing plan, featuring a mode shift towards twowheeled vehicles, was ultimately quite successful in decreasing traffic. If you enjoy reading reports and traffic studies, the London report is particularly interesting. If you’re my kind of geek, you’ll also enjoy the Leuven study out of Belgium. Those numbers are even better than the Schwartz study.

Sadly, the central role that two wheeled vehicles play in congestion reduction has been entirely absent from all the congestion pricing discussions thus far. This is significant because other cities in the U.S., such as San Francisco, have been considering congestion pricing to solve their traffic woes. If congestion pricing comes to NYC, whether or not our fuel efficient, congestion reducing vehicles are treated as part of the problem or part of the solution will have national implications.

Everyone is watching. Let’s make sure we get this right.

I wish I could say that we convinced Sam Schwartz to amend the FixNYC plan to exempt scooters and motorcycles 100% from any future congestion related tolls in NYC. In a partial victory, Schwartz pledged to recommend to Governor Cuomo that scooters and motorcycles get a 56% discount, which is the same discount we get on the MTA bridges and tunnels. As of this writing there’s been no official word from the Governor’s office regarding changes in the tolls we might face. Riders Against Congestion will continue to work for a 100% exemption from any future congestion pricing tolls in NYC. We’re part of the solution.

Continued on Page 11

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

BACKLASH Space TMI USS Backroads • Stardate 232018: While enjoying an episode of the original series, I was called on an away mission to boldly go where many men have gone before. Reading the article Romulans of the Forest with the show sounds in the background was a truly moving experience. Thanks. ron “a Klingon at heart” d Ron, you might need a red riding jacket?

Hey Brian, Thanks for the mention in A Day At The Museum. Everyone here enjoyed the columns featuring Motorcyclepedia!

Hope to see you soon, dharman abdullah

Fake News?

Brian, A couple of corrections to your editorial.

First, given that the study’s co-author is Professor in Behavioral Science and Public Policy and professor of psychology and public affairs at the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, and that most

Letters to the Editor of the sites describing it refer to the research as having been done by “Princeton researchers,” it is inaccurate to refer to it as a University of Toronto study.

Second, to suggest that that “the average ride on a motorcycle is more dangerous than a drunk driver with no seat belt traveling the same distance” is not at all equivalent to saying that “every motorcycle rider out on the road is equivalent of a drunk driver.” david allen Somewhere in Canada….

David, Point taken. All this was from a Princeton University press release citing a Canadian researcher. I didn’t make it up. Sounds like you are still stinging up there in Canada from that gold medal our gals got in hockey.

Hooky…

Thanks again for the recent mental health trip to the Sky Cafe—great to see you again!

I’d like to order a 20-year t-shirt, size M! Also, volunteer to be an ad-hoc bowler at the Big Backroadski! As I told you, my wife Jo’s driving to Staunton to see Macbeth; she last joined us in Jim Thorpe about 14 years ago! dale snead Brian & Shira, Thanks for organizing the lunch meet at Sky Manor Airport today. You couldn’t have picked a more perfect day, the area is great for riding, and the food was good too. The best part was getting to see so many Backroads friends! It was a great day; riding, eating, and camaraderie! A beautiful interlude; now back to Winter!

Gives me time to loosen up today’s aching muscles... paul T. donoghue Hi Shira, We’ve talked of our love of maps and that won’t change, but in an effort to ease the eye strain of my chief navigator (my mate for life ) we thought we’d try the Garmin with BaseCamp and plug into our Autocom.

Well, quite a few hours later we’ve decided we would rather do a high speed run down Rte. 519 BLINDFOLDED taking verbal and knee cues from her.

Does it really take forever to plot a day trip? Is there a better system? Is it just us? This is just not worth the time at a keyboard. Certainly gained a greater appreciation for what you do.

Back to the maps, dwight Dwight, Routing gets much easier with practice. When we first started it did take much longer than it does now. While I will always reference paper maps for the overview of where I want to go, BaseCamp offers those little roads that don’t appear on the maps (generally). Sometimes good, sometimes not so good, but always interesting.

I do reminisce about the days of writing directions on index cards, but don’t think that I could do that today with my eyesight and the horrible lack of attention of others on the road.

Don’t walk away from it; when you know where you want to go give the keyboard a maximum of half an hour and see what you come up with.

Shira & Brian, Thanks again for the LAME award in Austin. My teenage kids got quite a laugh…

Cool March cover shot with upgraded paper.

Thanks for riding in focus! See you down the road.

Regards, Kevin Wing

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

IN DU STRY INFOBITES 1951 VINCENT BLACK LIGHTNING BREAKS RECORD FOR MOST EXPENSIVE MOTORCYCLE EVER SOLD The record for the highest price ever paid for a single motorcycle was just shattered by a 1951 Vincent Black Lightning that went for $929,000 at a Bonhams auction in Las Vegas. The record was previously held by a yellow 1915 Cyclone owned by Steve McQueen which is one of just six known to exist today. It sold for $775,000 in 2015.

This isn’t the first record set by this particular Vincent. One of 31 models of its kind ever built, this Black Lightning was owned by racer Jack Ehret who used it to set Australia’s land speed record of 141.5 miles per hour. That historic achievement, combined with the fact that it’s already a sought-after collectible in unrestored condition with original paint, was enough to push the price to almost seven figures.

The British-made, Australian speed-record-setting bike is now officially the most valuable motorcycle ever sold at auction. Bonhams now holds the distinction of having sold both the most expensive motorcycle and most expensive automobile at public auction.

AMA HAZEL KOLB BRIGHTER IMAGE AWARD GIVEN TO HERO RIDER! The recipient of the 2018 AMA Hazel Kolb Brighter Image Award, Scott A. Witt, M.D., medical director for the newborn intensive care unit at Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital, received national recognition for his heroic efforts to transport babies under his care during the devastating wildfires in

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News from the Inside Santa Rosa, Calif., in October 2017. Witt’s actions were all the more notable because he accomplished them using his BMW R nineT motorcycle.

In an online article published by NBC News, Witt said, “I got called at 2 a.m. because the flames were getting close enough to the hospital so the staff thought that we’d have to evacuate... The intensive care unit already smelled with a lot of smoke and I wanted to move everybody to a parking lot without any fire in it... I feel like these babies are like my own babies. I just wanted to make sure I was there to help them.”

There can be no doubt that Witt’s unselfish actions honored the award’s namesake, Hall of Famer Hazel Kolb, for activities that generated good publicity for motorcycling.

“I am truly touched and honored for being included in this group of good people,” Witt said, who explained the nursing staff at the hospital were equally heroic.

“I think of the ‘gentleman motorcyclist’ idea as my standard of conduct while riding,” he said. “So many of the motorcyclists I have met are kind, caring people who will go out of their way to help others, so I am glad that I was found promoting a better image of motorcycling. In this instance, the motorcycle was simply the only way I could have contributed to the evacuation the way I did. I think of mine now as an honorary emergency vehicle.

Thank you so much for this award.”

No – thank YOU!

TWO WHEEL TV NETWORK SET TO LAUNCH For motorcycle enthusiasts who can never get enough two-wheel action on television, TwoWheelsTV.com “all motorcycle network” is set to launch this Spring. Whether you’re seeking live racing action, or commentary from leaders within the industry, the new “over-the-top” (OTT) streaming network is dedicated entirely to motorcycles.

“Like Netflix for motorcycling,” according to founder Alan Smith, Two Wheels TV (TWTV) will be available on an annual and monthly basis, and

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

promises to deliver live motorcycle racing that’s streamed from all over the world, plus an on-demand library of movies, shows, race archives and other exclusive motorcycling programs.

The soft launch is for iOS and Android devices; register at TwoWheelsTV.com. The full launch is expected in April, and TWTV will be supported by Google Chromecast, Apple TV, Amazon Fire and Roku.

TOURING BIKE NIGHT AT HANOVER POWERSPORTS Hanover Powersports opened their doors and put out a spread of food, drink and good time with an end of the winter Touring Night at their shop on Route 10.

Featured that night were the new Honda Gold Wing and Gold Wing Tour along with Yamaha’s Star Eluder and Venture.

Although both bikes were made for major miles on America’s big roads, they both attack that ride in different ways; one modern and the other a more classic approach.

That night we got to talk with Vinny, Billy and crew at Hanover about both machines, as well as all the other motorcycles (Honda, Yamaha & KTM) that can be found at Hanover Powersports.

Thanks for a great, and much needed, motorcycle night on a cold and wet mid-winter’s night.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES 115TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Milwaukee will be the center of the motorcycle universe over Labor Day weekend when Harley-Davidson riders and fans gather for the culmination

of a year-long celebration of 115 years of riding freedom and the city’s most-iconic brand.

Plans for the Harley-Davidson 115th Anniversary Milwaukee Celebration, set for August 29 – September 2, include new venues, first-ever motorcycle racing and an unmatched taste of moto-culture.

“Harley-Davidson is gearing up to celebrate 115 years of the world’s best motorcycles here in Milwaukee,” said Bill Davidson, Vice President, Harley-Davidson Museum.

“We’re welcoming everyone, motorcycle riders and non-riders alike from around the world, to the birthplace of Harley-Davidson to join in the celebration.”

New for the 115th anniversary in Milwaukee will be motorcycle events throughout the city. Harley-Davidson will host – for the first time ever – beach motorcycle racing on Bradford Beach on the shores of Lake Michigan, as well as sponsoring “Run What You Brung” drag racing, Flat Out Friday flat-track racing and more.

With acres of free outdoor activities all weekend long, the Harley-Davidson Museum will be the epicenter of 115th Anniversary activities in Milwaukee. The Museum will host motorcycle field games, a custom bike show, tattoo artists, live music, local food and more.

The Milwaukee 115th anniversary celebration will start thousands of miles away on Tuesday, August 21 with Harley-Davidson Rides Home. Led by Motor Company executives, the Harley-Davidson Rides Home will convoy to Milwaukee, stopping at dealerships and adding more riders along the way.

A complete list of 115th Anniversary events and activities – including rides home details, Rally-Pack specifics and their exclusive benefits, motorcycle rentals, organized local rides, tour routes, street parties, as well as lodging and camping – is available at H-D.com/115.

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018 free Wheelin’

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posTCards from The hedge

Continued from Page 5

My first thought was that I should maybe do this twice a year. But, then it hit me what I was really seeing.

Much of the dirt, grime and filth was not just something that needed to be cleaned, but instead to be relished and remembered. This was not just muck floating here – but cherished memories of road trips gone by. In this chaotic mix of dust, bugs and soot were miles and miles of riding adventure.

That red tinge shading part of it had to be the red South Carolina clay that I slammed into over and over while taking part in BMW’s off-Road school.

That grayish flotsam could only be part of the 6,000-mile journey Shira and I made to Newfoundland in the beginning of last summer.

The other shades of grunge were the Backroads Spring Break, Summer Squeeze and Fall Fiesta. Everything else was the universe’s way of imprinting where we have been, what we have seen and what we have experienced.

I began writing this while washing this suit and just a second ago the wash cycle rang a little gong that told me it was done.

Peeking into the basket I could see that my Aerostich suit looked almost new. Washed away were all the miles and smiles, the cold, the wet, the exhilaration, fun and joy of last year. It is almost sad in a way. I felt like I tossed out the baby with the bath water.

It is too bad we couldn’t bottle this hellbroth, label it and put it on a shelf…

Season of 2017. But, on a good note, my suit is clean as the slate is for 2018.

Let’s get dirty!

most part the designers and fabricators of these unique mounts tend to be older than most of the engineers that built the original hardware, which got me to thinking about my own advanced years. After decades of fairly sane motorcycles, will I one day wander too close to the workbench, grab my trusted Facom #3 screwdriver and gaze at my Triumph in an unhealthy manner? Will I Violate the VFR? Will I deconstruct both machines, add some of my defunct Sears lawn tractor parts, pull up that rowboat I found sunken in a nearby pond and combine everything into an unholy twin-engined Road Kraken?

Strange things happen as we age, don’t you think? When I was 20, the world seemed a very different place compared to when I was 12. Now that the candles on my cake are demanding more and more air power to extinguish, I see things in a different way. Years and years of not doing anything irrational to the machine in my life may lead to odd behavior, almost as if the 12-year-old that I once was is emerging once again to wreak havoc on some poor mechanical device that couldn’t defend itself. I built a snow plow for our lawn tractor in Texas as a lad, and while it seemed the thing to do at the time there was never enough snow to plow. Such creative mischief remains dormant I think, only to rise like a Phoenix when you reach a certain age. Or, so is my theory on this contraption conundrum and I’m sticking to it for the moment. Now, about this clearly defective keyboard I’m using.

Where are my pliers. . .

ThoughTs from The road

link for the sam schwartz/piaggio: web.archive.org/web/20070704213544/http://www.vespanomics.com:80/Tra fficModel.cfm link to the london study: www.mwigan.com/mrw/Pubs__Motorcycles_files/04%200800%20wsp%20 dft%20tfl%20Motorcycles%20and%20congestion%20final%20summary%2 0report.pdf link to the leuven study: www.tmleuven.be/project/motorcyclesandcommuting/home.htm

Continued from Page 7

Call Governor Cuomo’s office to let him know how you feel. Contact your NY State Congress member and your NY State Senator. Help them decide which way to vote on this important issue.

Cheryl Stewart is Co-Founder of the New York Motorcycle and Scooter Task Force and a Founding Member of the Sirens Women’s Motorcycle Club NYC References: riders against Congestion: https://medium.com/@motorocking

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

Morton’s BMW Motorcycles Presents Dr. Seymour O’Life’s MY STERI OUS AM ERI CA The sunday roCK ROADSIDE HIGHWAY 56, SOUTH COLTON, NEW YORK I was riding just west of the hamlet of South Colton in the northwestern Adirondack foothills when my eyes caught a glimpse of a rather large rock along the roadside.

It had an Historical Marker beside it and, even as I passed by, I knew it was a glacial erratic – a leftover from the last Ice Age and a bit rare in this part of New York. I made a quick U–turn and rode back to see what this was all about - I was glad I did.

I had heard of this ancient marker a number of times, but now had just serendipitously ridden passed it. Lucky us!

The Sunday Rock, as it is called, is an important landmark for locals and travelers alike. At 11 feet high and 64,000 pounds, the oblong boulder has been the stuff of local legend for at least 200 years, and has been important to the people of South Colton and around for just as long.

Twice, in the twentieth century, local citizens rallied to save it from demolition during highway construction, and it is now safely located on its own small park by Rte. 56.

Stories of the meaning of its name vary. Some accounts suggest it marked the point where the law and order of settled communities in the St. Lawrence River valley to the north stopped and the adjacent Adirondack wilderness began; south of it there was no Sunday, because lumber camp life and work were the same every day of the week.

Others tell of a preacher, seeking to bring the gospel to the people in that part of the woods, being told not to bother going past the boulder because beyond it there was no Sunday or religion. Somewhat later on, the rock began to stand for the freedom, sport and leisure of the woods and mountains to the south of it.

Because of its long value to local people as a landmark,

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Sunday Rock has been relocated twice in response to public highway projects on Route 56 that threatened its survival.

It was first moved in 1925 to make way for a new paved highway to replace the original dirt road that wound around it. Original plans were to remove the boulder by blasting; however, strong public outcry intervened and money was raised by scores of small contributions to pay for moving it to a safe place beside the highway. It was subsequently moved 12 feet north from the center to the side of the road. In 1965, Sunday Rock was again threatened with demolition to make way for a highway widening. Public outcry once again intervened and Sunday Rock was moved to the opposite side (south) of Route 56 on farmland donated to the town by Thomas’s family, who had lived in the town for several generations. Sunday Rock now rests on a grassy island, alongside the road in a half-acre park with picnic tables and benches.

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

MOHAWK FROM NATIONAL CYCLE

It has a blacktop entrance, exit and parking area. Two concrete monuments with metal plaques flank the mammoth boulder, each with plaques that commemorate the two moves and a narrative of the history of the rock.

The plaque nearby simply states: ‘Welcome to Sunday Rock - An Adirondack Landmark and Legend. This glacial boulder, twice preserved by local citizens, marks the gateway to the “Great South Woods.” In the frontier days it was said there was no law or no Sunday beyond this point. May all who pass this way continue to enjoy the beauty of the mountains.’

Placed on the State and National Register of Historic Places - 2010 If you keep your eyes peeled it is amazing what you will find along the backroads of this Mysterious America.

O’Life out….

Continuing the minimalist, sporty tradition of their famous Flyscreen, the new Mohawk features a taller and wider size with a special ‘V’ profile for added wind management; perhaps the start of a new classic.

As with the Flyscreen, the new Mohawk is adaptable to many motorcycles – cruisers, standards, and naked sport bikes.

The Mohawk utilizes the Flyscreen’s mounting hardware, so there is a lot of built-in versatility. The fork tube mounts are available in three different diameters, while the headlight mounts will fit almost any bike with traditional left/right headlight mount brackets.

The Mohawk Windshields has many outstanding features such as thick 4.5mm dark tint hardcoated polycarbonate for durability and long-lasting good looks, state-of-the-art manufacturing, smooth radius edges, superb forming, and sharp optical quality. The new 44-51mm diameter Fork Clamp added, which eliminates excessive fork gaskets and patented brackets are engineered for fork width adjustment from 8.5”-11.0” (21.6 - 28.0cm) spacing.

The Mohawk’s high strength, lightweight, machined steel brackets have the look of custom billet and all National Cycle polycarbonate windscreens are protected by a 3-Year Warranty against breakage. Starting at $189 log onto National Cycle’s website at www.nationalcycle.com for more information or to order yours.

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

Hanover Powersports Presents

BIG CITY GETAWAY

daytrip ideas to get out of the daily grind

frederiC remingTon arT museum 303 WashingTon sTreeT, ogdensBurg, ny 13669 315- 393-2425 • frederiCremingTon.org ‘the soldier, the cowboy & rancher, the indian…. will live in his pictures. and bronzes, i verily believe all time.”

Theodore Roosevelt October 1907 We all know his work, even if we do not know his name.

At this last Fall Fiesta, which went north along Lake Ontario, one of our more interesting stops along this rally was the Frederic Remington Art Museum in Ogdensburg, New York.

Remington, now considered one of our nation’s greatest artists, was also known for his prolific writings and specialized in tales of high adventure in the West. His magazine articles were collected into books, and he published works of fiction as well, amounting to eight books in all including Pony Tracks, Crooked Trails and Stories of Peace and War. His magazine work also included self-assigned reporting missions, which resulted in many articles both written and illustrated by Frederic Remington.

Remington made his name as an illustrator, mostly of western and military subjects, for most of the widely circulated magazines of the late 1800s.

Among the magazines he illustrated were Harper’s Weekly, Harper’s Monthly, Century, Collier’s, Outing, Boys’ Life, and Cosmopolitan. He remains most closely associated with depictions of the old West.

He created most of the art for reproduction in books and magazines using black and white media: pen and ink, ink wash and gouache, and black and white oil.

Over his career he completed over 3,000 flat works but what he is best

known for are his incredible bronze statues.

It was in 1895 that Remington began to make sculptures, producing 22 different subjects – many of which have become American icons.

He first worked in clay and then his clay models were cast in bronze at art foundries. His first four subjects were cast using the sand casting method at the Henry-Bonnard Co. In 1898 he began working exclusively with Roman Bronze Works, N.Y., which employed the lost wax casting method.

To ensure accuracy Frederic Remington traveled west time and again to report for magazines and to accumulate photographs, make sketches and buy props for his studio. This enabled him to create accurate details and gain inspiration each day in the comfort of his studio.

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The museum: Founded in 1923 the museum is housed in Remington’s own home on Washington Street in Ogdensburg.

The main building of the Frederic Remington Art Museum was built in 1810 by David Parish, an early developer of large tracts of land in St. Lawrence County and a prominent player in the shipping and lumber industry.

He resided in the home until 1816 when he returned to Europe. Other Parish family members followed and occupied the property into the 1860s.

We found his paintings just as enticing and the home, now museum, to be a wonderful example of the period and style of architecture that exemplified the era.

While riding in the Thousand Island region of New York State a stop at the Frederic Remington Art Museum is not only well worth – it is almost demanded.

After Frederic Remington’s death in 1909, this home became the residence of his wife, Eva. This was made possible through the generosity of Ogdensburg industrialist, George Hall, and the Remington’s friend, John Howard. Eva lived here with her sister, Emma, from 1915 to 1918. The Museum was founded as the Remington Art Memorial in 1923. The original collection, which was derived from the estates of Eva and Emma, included Frederic’s sculptures, oil paintings, family possessions, personal art collection and studio contents.

Since the Museum’s founding, purchases and donations of Remington art and personal artifacts have added significantly to the breadth of this internationally acclaimed collection.

We had a number of our ralliers head to the Frederic Remington Art Museum while we were there and it was amazing to see bronzes, such as the Bronco Buster, Coming Thru the Rye and The Cheyenne up close and personal.

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

G REAT A LL AMERICA N DINE R RUN CreeKside resTauranT 160 main sT., CaTsKill, ny 12414 518-943-6522 • nWWW.CreeKsideCaTsKill.Com We’ve said many times the recipe for a masterful Great All American Diner Run is that slick combination of great roads, nice ambiance and good eats.

During the summer months we can add one more when we can – water!

Eating along the beach, lake or, in this case, creek will make for a bit more fun and a better dining experience all around.

The Creekside Restaurant is located on the Catskill Creek less than a mile from the Hudson River, at the marina right next to the tower of the old Hopo’-Nose Knitting Mill. We sought out this waterside restaurant on our way back from this year’s Backroads Summer Squeeze and it turned out the Creekside is a real winner both for its great food and nice and comfortable locale.

The place has a good size indoor restaurant, but we took a table along the dock with a bucolic view of the boats and a family of ducks and ducklings seeking out anything that might get “tossed” their way.

Once seated we heard the specials of the day, which were delectable and a bit varied, with the seared scallops on their Asian salad a real nice touch.

tasty places to take your bike

The Creekside has four salads to keep it healthy – the classic Caesar, an arugula, a wonderful harvest and the Asian. You may add chicken, Cajun or boneless wings, steak or shrimp to any of them.

Shira chose the Tuscan chicken sandwich and requested it on the Caesar. Not on the menu, but they were happy to oblige. The waitress thought it should be on the menu all the time.

Appetizers included their Creekside chowder, crab cakes (for which they are known), PEI mussels in a great broth, oysters and DJ shrimp.

We were keeping an eye on what others were ordering and the food all looked bright, fresh and delicious.

According to the Creekside menu the favorites include fish & chips,

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

Page 17 ribs, mixed seafood basket (fried) and a lobster roll.

This day I went for the California turkey BLT wrap and stole a bit of Shira’s salad creation as the servings were fairly large and “waste not, want not.”

The dockside eatery also has a number of burgers and sandwiches including a crabwich that is a bit different.

We dropped by the Creekside Restaurant for a summertime lunch, but they handle dinner as well with a variety of pasta dishes and we’d love to try the fiery Alfredo with shrimp and scallops. You will find steak, ribs and pork chops too.

As important as your meal is – dessert counts too! Chocolate lava cake, orange creamsicle pie, and something called a raspberry sorbet bomb might catch your eye and tastebuds. It did ours.

The Creekside is open 7 days a week during the summer from 11:30 am till 11 pm.

What’s not to like about a place like this?

As we said it has that neat mix of great roads, nice ambiance, great food and the cooling breeze off the Catskill Creek and that is why the Creekside Restaurant is a stop on this month’s Great All American Diner Run.

Rip & Ride® • CREEKSIDE RESTAURANT 160 MAIN ST., CATSKILL, NY 12414 518-943-6522 • WWW.CREEKSIDECATSKILL.COM DOWNLOAD GPS ROUTE: www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/1in8mk

START: JUNCTION OF RTES. 59 AND 17 IN NY RTE. 17 NORTH PAST TUXEDO LEFT AT ORANGE TURNPIKE (PAST RED APPLE REST) LEFT AT 17M FOLLOW SIGNS TO RTE. 208 NORTH LEFT AT RTE. 52 OVER MOUNTAINS RIGHT ON RTE. 209 NORTH LEFT AT CR 213 (CR4) FOLLOW SIGNS TO ASHOKAN RIGHT ON RTE. 28A FOLLOW RESERVOIR ROAD OVER DAM LEFT ON RTE. 28 FOLLOW SIGNS FOR PHOENICIA (ON RIGHT) RIGHT AT RTE. 214 RIGHT AT RTE. 23A TO TANNERSVILLE DOWN PAST WATERFALLS – PRETTY, RIGHT? BEAR LEFT AT RTE. 9W NORTH INTO CATSKILL BEAR RIGHT TO BRIDGE STREET RIGHT AT MAIN STREET (BEFORE UNCLE SAM BRIDGE) CREEKSIDE ON LEFT IN HOP-O’-NOSE MARINA

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

WE’RE OUTTA HER E inn aT haven harBor 20950 roCK hall ave., roCK hall, md 21661 800-506-6697 • WWW.havenharBour.Com What would another year and summer gone by of Backroads Motorcycle Tour Magazine be if we did not sneak in a few days down along one of our favorite places to be in the warmer months - the Chesapeake Bay. The Bay, being as big as it is, offers a wide variety of places to stay, from chain hotels to warm and cozy bed and breakfasts.

In fact, the surface area of the Bay and its tidal tributaries is approximately 4,480 square miles. Two of the United States’ five major North Atlantic ports, Baltimore and Hampton Roads, are on the Bay. The Bay and its tidal tributaries have 11,684 miles of shoreline, more than the entire U.S. west coast.

So in late July we made our way south, with the final leg over the big bridge crossing the bay to Kent County, Maryland.

We were a bit shocked at the amount of tree damage, as a storm the week before had leveled houses on Kent Island, reeking havoc along the main road.

Still, things seemed to return to their usual agricultural peacefulness as we scooted north along Route 213 and back west towards the town of Rock Hall.

Rock Hall is a true historic town, with the likes

a weekend destination keeping you on the backroads of George Washington and James Madison having passed this way many times as the town was a ferry hub for hundreds of years. News of our victory over the British at Yorktown came to Philadelphia via Rock Hall’s ferries.

Today it is a quiet burg that still welcomes visitors, but without any overt tourist traps that towns like St. Michaels seem to embrace.

We have passed though and stayed here in the Bay town a few times, but this day we took a room at a place we had heard a bit about – the Inn at Haven Harbor. Part resort, part marina the Inn at Haven Harbor has a number of well appointed buildings housing a wide array of rooms at varying prices and offers just a bit more.

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

We took the Rita Room at the Boat House, which we had to ourselves, and found it very welcoming. The Boat House itself, with its comfortable sitting room and kitchenette, would make a great hideaway for a few friends that don’t mind sharing a house along one of the prettiest part of the Chesapeake Bay. The grounds of the inn are simply beautiful and the flowers seem to abound everywhere you look – exquisitely manicured and making a wonderful place to stay into something far grander.

Open Friday evening thru Sunday lunch, seasonally mid-May thru mid-October, their bar & grill Passages offers that Margaritaville-feel and if you decide to get nautical you can grab one of the inn’s kayaks or Hobie Cats.

On the grounds we found gazebos, koi pond, croquet, horseshoes and a beach area with fire pit. Two pools are available for those who like to keep wet on land and not venture into The Bay. There is an on-premise store as well and the town’s center is within walking distance if you feel the need to venture out. And, you should, as the Rock Hall area is well worth exploring.

When we were there mid-week Passages was closed and the truth is Callinectes Sapidus - the Blue Crab – is a big reason we love the Chesapeake Bay so much.

Summer would not be summer without multiple fixes of Old Bay coursing through the blood stream.

Page 19 In Rock Hall crabs means Waterman’s Crab House, situated at the foot of Sharp St. in historic Rock Hall. Waterman’s has become legendary for its dockside location, ambience sunsets and, of course, crabs!

Trust us when we say that a dozen big Jimmies will feed two easily.

Yes, crabs are a bit of work, but what great things in life are not?

Sunset was perfect on The Bay and Shira found Get the Scoop ice cream shop for dessert as the waxing crescent moon rose in the west.

The next morning we had a filling breakfast (included in your stay) of quiche, yogurt, fruit, muffins and hard boiled eggs at the Main House, with a wide view of the Haven Harbor and its array of boats moored for the season and then took a ride down to Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge.

This natural beauty is a 2,286-acre island located at the confluence of the Chester River and the Chesapeake Bay. One road in and out, we spied a dozen osprey, nesting and hunting one with a fishy breakfast clutched in its talons. Over the old wooded bridge crabbers were already out catching lunch – it is amazing what a string, weight, piece of chicken and a net can bring to the table.

Some of the Refuge was flooded out and after attempting to head to the wharf we decided that the GT was not my GS and would return another day.

Needing to get back to New Jersey this day we sped across the Chesapeake, very secure with the knowledge that we would soon return.

We can’t help it – Old Bay is in our blood.

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

The Law Office of Paul G. Gargiulo Presents

Welcome to the Jungle - The Art of Learning to Ride Skillfully A column dedicated to your riding survival THE BLACK SWAN OR HOW TO ‘UNINSTALL’ GARMIN MAPS FROM YOUR COMPUTER I recently heard a phrase of which I was not aware – the Black Swan Event.

Basically, the Black Swan Event is a metaphor describing an event that comes as a surprise, has a major effect, and is often inappropriately rationalized after the fact with the benefit of hindsight. The term is based on an ancient saying, which presumed black swans did not exist, but the saying was rewritten after black swans were discovered in the wild.

For me my Black Swan happened in a hotel room during a three-week road tour up north – and it wasn’t the event that came as a surprise or had a major effect that you would think of.

Nope – it was when my Powerbook, that has done yeoman’s work for nearly 10 years (a thousand years in today’s computer world) came up with a message that I was down to just 20 gigs of space on my hard drive.

There was a time when a gig was a lot – but there was also a time we flew to the moon and back with slide rulers.

When things like this happen you can ask yourself two questions: Can I fix this? Or, better yet – How can I fix this? I will always go with the latter and immediately went to seek a little help from my friend and Mac specialist Edd Dicker at pCps / maxhelp! (pcps.com) Edd and crew have been keeping us up and running and massaging my older devices along the backroads for years now. He is the best. If you ever have Mac issues give them a call.

An email was sent immediately and, a short time later, I got a text and follow up phone call.

Edd was sure there was a memory hog lurking in my laptop that was eating up gigs and gigs of now precious hard drive space.

Through the magic of the internet, Edd took control of my computer and programs began to open and close mystically on the screen.

I imagine him sitting in his castle, wrapped in his ermine robes smoking a pipe by a low fire… while I was tucked away in a small dank room in Newfoundland with a view of icebergs floating off the dock outside and a freezing rain pelting down on the bikes outside. A group of bull moose had gathered outside trying to decide which one was going to have sex with my bike first.

The phone rang again – it was Edd. “Do you know how many Garmin maps you have?”

“Well, I guess – I update them all the time.”

“Yes, well – you might want to delete them when you get new complete map sets.”

“Yes, oh wise one.” Even though Edd was thousands of miles away I bowed and averted my eyes.

Edd sent me instructions (readily available on Garmin’s web site BTWduh) on safe and easy removal – with the thought to leave the current year’s versions in place.

I walked over to the office of the motel, shooing the moose away from my

now terrified BMW, and got a cup of coffee before attempting the needed mapectomy.

Like most things the task was far easier than I let my imagination create and soon I was safely doing keystrokes in the deep side of the free hard drive space pool.

So, do you update your Garmin maps all the time – like we tell you in this magazine?

Right…well you might also want to give this a quick and easy check and, if you have a good number of maps, you might want to delete the older ones (Make sure they are the OLDER ones!) It will make your Mac run like it has U.S. Keds on - it’ll run faster and jump higher!

How to Uninstall Garmin maps from your computer Garmin map products may be removed from a computer if they are no longer needed or to free up disk space. each map product and version will be listed individually and can be uninstalled separately.

To remove maps Windows: On the Keyboard, press the Windows Key + r key together in the text box, type appwiz.cpl Click OK right-click the map product to uninstall Click Uninstall Mac OS X: Open Finder Open applications Open Garmin MapManager Click the map product to uninstall in the lower left corner, click the gear icon Click Delete map in the pop-up window, click Delete Once these steps are completed, the product will be uninstalled from the computer.

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Page 21

SWIPE WITH A TWIST CRUZTOOLS PRO-GRADE SAFETY WIRE PLIERS

It’s not uncommon to find safety wire pliers in a technician’s tool box, especially if they’re involved in competition. Often referred to as SWIPES (for ‘Safety Wire Installation Pliers’), they ease the operation of twisting wire that firmly secures fasteners and other parts. The two primary components of swipes are the locking jaw and a lever that rotates pliers when pulled out. To the casual observer, all swipes may appear equal, but close observation will reveal significant differences. Quality ranges from very good - and thus very expensive - to quite poor. Professionals will agree that quality pliers are necessary for confident completion of the task, especially if safety of the rider is at stake.

CruzTOOLS set out to develop safety wire pliers that rival top professional units, but priced for a much broader audience. The SWP8 features a precision diagonal nose jaw and heat-treated cutting blades, using pro-spec chrome vanadium material.

The locking mechanism operates with ease, as does the self-retracting twist lever.

Fit and finish is professional-quality. The SWP8 measures 8.5” tip-to-tip and retails for $39.95.

“We don’t normally develop specialty tools,” stated Dan Parks, President of CruzTOOLS, “but found the Powersports market lacked a moderately-priced pair of pro-grade safety wire pliers. We’re also gratified that our general aviation customers have shown interest for common safety wiring needs in aircraft.”

CruzTOOLS provides highly functional tools and tool kits to the motorcycle, music product, and general aviation industries, which are sold through dealers and distributors internationally. For more information, please contact CruzTOOLS at PO Box 250, Standard, CA 95373 U.S.A.; toll-free 888-909-8665; fax 209-5360463; or visit their web site at www.cruztools.com.

RIDE LIKE A PRO NJ Advanced Riding Training Classes Being Held in New Jersey ‘NEVER FEAR that U-turn or dropping your 800lb. or any motorcycle again’ • You can learn the 3 simple techniques that master low speed maneuvers that Motorcops have been using for years • Our instructors - all active or retired motor officers - will instruct the use of Motorcop riding techniques to help you better control your motorcycle

There is a difference between just riding and riding well

Pre-registration is recommended as classes fill quickly.

Gift certificates available • Course Fee is $175.00 Visit our website to take advantage of this special offer.

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

llama iCe Cream 266 river road, easT sTroudsBurg, pa 570-269-1777 • llamaiCeCream.Com and faCeBooK.Com/llamaiCeCream seasonal: WinTer friday + saTurday 2-9pm riding season 11am-9pm There are TONS of homemade ice cream shops on my list, but finding one open in the middle of February is about as difficult as finding the bolt you dropped when fixing your bike.

Fortunately, not too far from Backroads Central, there is a sane person who realizes that ice cream is NEVER seasonal and should be enjoyed year round.

So, during a very brief but welcome hiatus from winter in February, we hopped on the bikes to sample the unusual and colorful flavors offered at Llama Ice Cream in E. Stroudsburg, PA. Situated on River Road next to a very good Peruvian restaurant, I’m sure that this shop is hoppin’ during the summer season. When we pulled up, it was us and Iris, the proprietor and glacier in charge of making these delicious flavors. She had just unlocked the doors and was prepping the ice cream for the day. As she pulled out each flavor, she handed me a little tasting spoon, naming the exotic flavor.

‘This is cherimoya, this is guava, this is maracuya,’ Iris announced with each vibrant taste I inhaled. This was a very good thing, as I had not a clue what any of these were.

There is a good description, with images, on the wall to describe the fruit from which the dairy delights are created. Most are native to Central and South America.

Not to worry, should you be shy of giving these adventurous flavors a go, as Iris has some thirty classic ice cream flavors filling the tubs; Cherry Cheesecake, Cappuccino Blast, Toffee Crunch, and Orange Creamsicle to name a few. And if your dairy intake needs to be tempered, there are several 100% natural real fruit sorbets to quench your sweet desires. After doing an extensive taste test, I opted for a double scoop of maracuya (also known as passion fruit) and coconut. The coconut was spot on, super

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Whether you’re riding offroad, backroads or on the track, we’re here to get you where you need to go.

In northern New Jersey there isn’t a friendlier or more knowledgeable staff than ours. We’re happy to help you find the parts you’ve been looking for.

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BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

Page 23 creamy, not too sweet and very refreshing. The maracuya had a terrific citrus flavor with a hint of vanilla and I can see it being a top seller during the dog days of summer – very crisp.

The shop itself is clean and bright, with seating inside for now and outdoors when the heat is on. Pricing is reasonable and you can get anything from a single scoop in a cup or cone to a fully packed sundae with your choice of ice cream and toppings like pineapple, blueberry, home made hot fudge or dulce de leche. Should you like to sip your ice cream there are smoothies and milkshakes.

Iris has been dishing out her homemade ice creams and sorbets for the past year, with to-go pints and quarts available. There are some great roads around this area of Pennsylvania so we’ll give you a tasty twisty ride on your way to some terrific ice cream.

There are several restaurants in the area as well should you like to get some lunch before dessert. Enjoy and don’t be afraid to try something new!

Here are two routes; a 155-mile loop from Hermy’s in Port Clinton, PA and a one-way 85-mile from Hanover Powersports in Hanover, NJ. You can download them from these links:

hermy’s: www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/0qvfgd hanover: www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/uyb0rv

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

North to the Finger Lakes…

Shira and I met a few others for the first day’s ride up to Canandaigua at the Elias Cole restaurant, on Route 23, just south of High Point State Park early on a stunner of a Thursday morning.

Crisp, cool and, most important cloudlessly clear!

Some folks like to get away, take a holiday from the neighborhood hop a flight to Miami Beach or to hollywood But i’m takin’ two wheels along the hudson river line i’m in a new york state of mind …. New York State of Mind - Billy Joel (kinda) With Hurricane Jose spinning its way just off the coast of New Jersey, the riders who would be joining Backroads on our 19th annual Fall Fiesta – which we were calling the New York State of Mind Tour - were getting ready to do a bit of spinning themselves to the Finger Lakes region of the Empire State and the town of Canandaigua at the north edge of the large lake with the same name.

Our ride brought us up along the Delaware River, through the Hawks Nest and then across to the Pennsylvania side of the river before finding our way onto a number of miles of some pristine dirt roads.

Are they not all pristine - until they are not?

Down one small country lane we came across a bit of odd art – PA-style. Along this road we found one side completely filled with just weird, wacky figurines and tree hangings. The Largest Weedwacker Sculpture in Pennsylvania, for instance, made up

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018 of dozens of old weedwackers, a tree full of bicycle parts and so on.

We are not sure of the backstory on all this, but we are sure O’Life will be on the case as soon as he is let back into the United States.

Our route took us over the Susquehanna River and then into New York State that seemed to be under virtual construction for many miles north.

By afternoon we had crossed over into the Finger Lakes region, coming down and through Watkins Glen and stopping for coffee and pie in Hammondsport before setting off for the final run into Canandaigua and our night stop at the always pleasant Inn on the Lake.

But, with just five miles to go, I heard Shira’s voice frantically come across the Sena communicators with a whistle like “Whoa, whoa, whoa…”

One of our riders had just been hit by a very large deer.

Remarkably he (who will not be named to protect his marriage) spotted the furry flash and got onto the brakes, scrubbing off just enough velocity that Bambi just grazed his front wheel, tearing off the fender and jarring loose the top case, which went spinning down the road. Lord Voldemort then made the greatest Sampson-like motorcycle save this side of Valentino Rossi.

Looking at the bike we could see that the front end had fur on it and the deer – well, it kept going; probably to talk smack with his cervidae friends later about how bad and dangerous them damn motorcycles are.

Crisis somewhat avoided, we arrived just in time to shower and head lake-side with the beautiful shore, tables, chairs and sunset – which came in time for a few of us to celebrate, as we have in the past, Rosh Hashanah – the Jewish New Year. Shofar blown. Challah, honey and gefilte fish for everyone!

All in all – a pretty perfect day.

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To the Thousand Islands (okay,1,864 islands) Heavy fog plagued us for a good part of morning and many miles as we zigzagged towards Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. We have been here before and the wide-open space that runs along the New York State Thruway is an impressive bird preserve operated by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, encompassing part of the Montezuma Swamp found at the north end of Cayuga Lake.

Arriving in the murkiness we had a short wait before the Nature Center opened its doors for us and we took in the exhibits and story that told of this oasis for migratory birds, and the like, that has been here forever and helped by man since 1938.

A few miles of dirt road brought us up and around the refuge under a pristine sky that had suddenly cleared; allowing for the spotting of hundred of birds and dozens of different species. It was all very groovy indeed, especially the giant eagle statue that faces the Thruway.

Now that has to be scary if not expected in the middle of the night.

Continuing up through the region we followed along the Erie Canal and then across the feeder canals along the Oswego River near Phoenix,

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS New York where we found an odd, but very enjoyable, lunch at the locks.

This town is historic in many ways, but infamous that on September 23, 1916, Phoenix was almost completely devastated by a fire that destroyed most of the business district. The fire knocked out use of the fire fighting pumps that the village relied on and left the town defenseless against the blaze. The fire lasted until early the next morning.

Phoenix has since come back and is one of the more pleasurable little burgs in the region.

The State Street Café was fun and Tammy the owner did a bang up job for the riders who swarmed her restaurant at lunch time – with a little help from Barb from the Guard.

We were there for a bit and got to watch a few large boats pass through the lock system and under the heel trunnion single-leaf bascule bridge – one of the last of its kind in the US. Many of us had never seen the lock system really work and it is truly a magnificent feat of engineering.

We were not expecting such an eventful and fun lunch, but we guess we just “locked” into this town. Sorry.

The rest of the day followed a wonderfully enjoyable ride up through the central part of New York State, eventually

running past Black River Falls outside of Watertown.

We cruised into the Thousand Islands and the Bonnie Castle Resort in Alexandria Bay by late afternoon… in time for a dip in the pool, hot tub and happy hour at the deckside bar overlooking the Saint Lawrence Seaway and a fantabulous sunset behind Boldt Castle across the water.

That evening we strolled into town and did a little exploration before dinner with friends at the “trendy” Kitchen.

The owner of the Bonnie Castle’s daughter was getting married this weekend so we shared the place with the fairly large, young and party’ing wedding party – which included a Friday night concert by Joey Belladonna of Anthrax fame and his band.

They must have been excellent at their craft as the place was rocking, the younger crowd was dancing… and I knew maybe half of the songs they played. They were great but can they play Saturday in the Park?

Perhaps not.

Free Day Around Alex Bay Our ride this day started with a stop at the overview of the Saint Lawrence Seaway, with a bit of geologic and historic information of the region. As a history buff I love to read about the War of 1812, much of which was fought along these waters.

In the town of Odgensburg, New York a stop at the Frederick Remington Art Museum was a must.

Remington was one of the most phenomenal American artists, and first garnered praise for his commercial magazine work before becoming one of the nation’s preeminent sculptors. We all know his

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018 work, as it is some of the most easily recognizable on the planet.

While we headed to see the Remington’s bronze statues most everyone else head to the town of Clayton and the Antique Boat Museum.

We had been here a year back and highly recommended it to our group. Many are boaters and all are motorheads - so this museum was a natural for our Backroads’ family.

Although we had two separate routes that were suggested for this day Shira, Backroads contributor Jeff Kurtzman and I mixed up the two and made a third heading from Ogdensburg along some of the Amish packed farm roads that crisscross this part of New York State, before returning west for lunch.

On one road we all saw something we had never seen before – nor considered – when an Amish horse decided he had enough of it all and reared up and bolted away from the young man driving the buggy.

The kid took off after the agitated beast. But, the problem was, ponyboy was galloping down the road straight at us! Holy crap!

Eyes very wide, we three quickly pulled way off to the side on the gravel and grass and watched as the fellow, now running after his charge, final got into the buggy and slowed the large black horse down.

Damn. Okay then.

At this point we spun into Shira’s route and headed toward Canada over the Thousand Island Bridge, hopping off right before the border onto Wellesley Island, the largest of the many isles here, and for lunch and ice

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cream at Guzzles on the island’s south end - a most excellent place for food and the much needed ice cream.

That afternoon’s boat tour of the Seaway and the Thousand islands’ many homes was a perfect sunny first day of Autumn and a bit different for our group.

Dinner led into the night with tables full of ralliers enjoying the illuminated Boldt Castle across the water underneath a clear sky, painted with stars.

We called it early this night as we had a long cycle east through the Adirondacks the next day.

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

Lake George – the final frontier Our cloudless skies continued this day, although it was going to get a bit warm for late September.

But, for those of you who have been on a few of our previous adventures you know we were not complaining.

We know we will pay for this superb weather on another rally – but today all was good once again.

Today’s pounding of the pavement started early and headed east along the Saint Lawrence Seaway and then into the farm and woodlands that ring the region.

This is Amish country for sure and, being Sunday, we ran past a dozen or so horse and buggies heading to services.

I always say to wave to the Amish – it’s good luck I believe - and today that luck paid off with a dozen smiles and waves back. Two young girls especially stood out, sitting rearward in the buggy and shyly waving back to us in between giggles.

The road here was surprisingly technical – made so by the lane and half width, the rough cuts along it, sand and occasional slick surface. It seemed everyone slid in the same spot.

Add in the bright morning sun in your face and you have a technical road.

We found two things in the town of Colton: breakfast and The Sunday Rock. The Sunday Rock, a glacial erratic, was used by Indians and early settlers as a landmark when traveling into the mountains. In the early days of settlement it marked the boundary of law and order. Beyond there was none, and no Sunday either. The big rock became a dividing line, separating the woods from the world. When people passed by the rock, things got a bit more interesting.

Soon we were in the Adirondacks proper and making wonderful time along some of the best riding roads of the Fall Fiesta so far.

By early afternoon we had gotten to Ticonderoga and, with a few hours to kill, I vectored our two-wheel shuttlecrafts to the Star Trek Original Series Set Tour in the town.

Both Shira and I had been here before, but none of the others riding with us had, and it has only gotten better since our first time travel Mystery Ride a few years back.

This place is a must see if you love the show or have a keen interest in how TV was made back in the day.

You will learn about both.

We spent an hour or so in and around the USS Enterprise before slingshoting around the sun and back to 2017 and down the western shore of Lake George to the Melody Manor Inn in Bolton’s Landing.

This place came from a tip from our off-road guy Tony Lisanti and friends Mike and Lisa and by late afternoon both the bar and the lake were filling with slightly overheated ralliers.

Shira and I, neither of us water people, tried our hand at boating and somehow returned safely.

Okay it was a paddleboat and a kayak… but still.

We had set dinner up that night at a very local German restaurant called Pumpernickels and, with most everyone from the rally still there, we got to say a few words of thanks to all who came along and even gave out a new award for Backroads – The Piece of the Road. Handed out to Mike Mosca, who exemplified how we feel about riding, as he spent a few weeks riding just to see his grandson in Washington State. The night ended once again under a palette of stars that were so many light years away we’d really need the Enterprise to get to them.

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own final dessert on the road for pie and ice cream at the Elias Cole in New Jersey – where we started this excursion some five days before.

Final Thoughts…

The Ride Back Home…

With mostly everybody needing to get back home to the real world hugs and goodbyes were given all around after breakfast at Melody Manor.

It was a fantastic five days on the road, but it was that time…

I sometimes think that the name Shira is really ancient Hebrew for “road that is really not there.” Those who met the Thousand Island pig farmer on this trip know what I mean.

So, trusting whole heartedly on my lady’s route back home, we started on our way – and immediately due north on a gravel road.

Yes, my friend… take the Sheee-ra to the first oasis on the left.

Seriously we had an awesome ride back south (eventually), through the Adirondacks, and the Leatherstocking region before making a lunch stop at the Fly Creek General Store, in aptly named Fly Creek, before roaming down into and through the Catskills.

In Port Jervis we found a gaggle of our peeps who had stopped for rejuvenating pie at the diner and we stopped to say final goodbyes – but saved our

Both Shira and I were a little reluctant on linking together a few different parts of New York State that were not exactly known for riding paradises.

That being said, we could not have been happier with how it worked out.

We thought the routes (always a concern to us) worked better than just fine and suggested stops, museums and the boat tour a great mix of fun and history and the hotels comfortable and accommodating.

But, once again, and as always, it was all the friends and riders who joined us for five days of whizzing around the Empire State that made this rally such a success. We even had a dozen new faces on this rally and we hope they bring a dozen more. It’s all good!

Indeed it is this magical camaraderie – the little cliques and groups that have formed and the friendships that have been forged… that go way past the motorcycles themselves. It is the Backroads Effect in full brilliance.

Thank you for making this almost easy.

I don’t have any reasons I left them all behind I’m in a New York state of mind…

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHTS AND REVIEWS MOSKO FATTY TOOL ROLL There seem to be two types of riders out there these days. Those who actually carry some tools along for the ride and those whose tool box is carried in their wallet.

Okay, maybe three – there are also those who ride with friends who carry tools with them… and then hope to borrow those when things go bad.

Me? I like to have myself covered for all possibilities while on the road - thank you.

Many years ago I carried a small roll up pouch for my tools but, after carrying it around for a long season in not so water-tight luggage, I found that moisture had done a nasty job on some of them; so I went it search of a better tool carrier.

For the last half decade that solution was a small Otter Box. Sure, it did the job, but searching for any specific tool necessitated spilling out the tools – not ideal by any means.

Enter Mosko. These folks are creating some serious adventure riding gear and they have put their real-life riding experiences to work when creating their various bags and packs.

When looking through their catalog of products I spotted their Fatty Tool Roll.

Hmmm. This seemed to be just what I had been looking for and one was on order that morning.

The first thing that struck me was the high quality of the bag’s construction.

This tool roll was created with ADV and dirt riders in mind and it even comes with a highly abrasion-proof, welded-seam, waterproof rain cover to help keep moisture out if you have the Fatty Tool Roll strapped to your motorcycle out in the elements.

My tools have a mostly dry home these days, so I can leave the cover at home – making the Fatty a little less chubby.

Opening the Fatty Tool Roll I saw all sort of possibilities for my tools.

There are two rows of tool storage pockets, with webbing straps to hold everything in place.

Inside the flap there is a zippered mesh pocket to carry smaller items that tend to disappear over the miles.

If you need to carry tire irons the Fatty Tool Roll has pockets for those too.

Inside you will find two large zipper pockets that I used to carry sockets, pliers, vice grips and longer type tools that always seem a hassle to pack – not with this roll.

There is a clear zipper pocket for documents, an air gauge, or anything else you want to tuck away.

They even added a conversion table printed on the front and a place to put your name.

(Okay, they also added a recipe for a “Mosko” Mule cocktail).

I was impressed as well with the heavyduty belt strap that keeps this all closed up and tidy with its blue aluminum buckle and the carrying strap that allows for easy hanging.

If you are searching for a neat, compact and well-built system to carry your tools while on the road this tool roll might well be your answer.

The Mosko Fatty Tool Roll sells for $69.99 and can be found at www.moskomoto.com. ~ Brian Rathjen

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHTS AND REVIEWS VAMPLIERS SCREW PLIERS ARE THESE THE MOST IMPORTANT PLIERS YOU WILL EVER OWN? Maybe yes!

Don’t let the name fool you. These pliers don’t suck.

We first heard of the Vampliers Screw Pliers in an article from the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club. Trust us, these guys know of stuck fasteners.

Intrigued we ordered their smaller model - the VT-001.

The idea of the Vampliers Screw Pliers is that, although they work like regular pliers in most cases, they were really made to unfasten the unfastenable. To break loose those stripped screws, rounded-off nuts and snapped bolts that can bring many a shade tree mechanic to their knees.

As things go we bought these pliers and had no real chance to use them – going through an entire summer without our usual FUBAR-style routine of mechanics.

Then we came upon a situation. A non-bike issue – but the problem was the same.

We were changing the office door deadbolt that had been wonky since it was painted nearly a year or more ago.

When we went to loosen the two screws that hold the lock together it was apparent that the last time this lock was taken out - it was reassembled by some off-world power tool of great strength and ability and was abused in the worse way. Half of the heads were rounded off.

Our first thought was drill them out, followed quickly by the second thought of calling in the locksmith who should have been called in the first place.

But then Spenser remembered the Vampliers Screw Pliers that were in the tool caddy. It was our first chance to see if they worked as promised.

They did - incredibly well too!

The Vampliers differ from ordinary pliers in that your run of the mill grabbers are lined with horizontal serrations. If you try to grab a screw head that is frozen or stripped they simply slide off. The Vampliers have both horizontal and vertical serrations – the specially designed jaws generate a lot of gripping strength and get a serious bite on the head of stripped, rounded and broken bolts and screws.

They work as advertised and we had the lock off in minutes – in an amazingly easy fashion.

We were more than impressed and ordered another set to be carried on the bikes.

The Vampliers, made in Japan, are available at most fine tool stores as well as on-line and come in a variety of sizes and prices. They also have a neat rubber storage sleeve – a nice touch. Ours ran about $30 – money well spent the first time we used them. www.vampiretools.co

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

A Little Bit of Summer in February

you better get it while you can if you wait too long, it’ll all be gone and you’ll be sorry then…

Steve Goodman

By the time you read this in the pages of Backroads we would hope that winter will be far in our mirrors but, in the middle of this past February the Weather Gods gave the northeast a day of strong reprieve from the wintery grip of the season and a strong Bermuda high ushered up record breaking temperatures throughout much of our region.

The last time we had highs like this on this date was 88 years back in 1930 (just sayin’). So, with a few days up-front notice we thought it would be a perfect “Two-Wheel Hooky Day,” a pop-up ride if you will, and put out a call, via email and the Backroads Facebook Pages to meet for lunch at the Sky Café in Pittstown, words & images Brian Rathjen New Jersey; our thought being that a day predicted to reach mid-70s, on the cusp of Aquarius and Pisces, is a rare treat and should be taken advantage of.

So that is what we did.

Unlike many of our rides which start with a strategic meeting point, we had thought that just getting out on the road was magic enough; so the plan was to simply meet at Sky Manor Airport’s restaurant around noon.

That would allow riders from the tri-state region to get out that morning and enjoy their own ride to the café, rather than spend the first couple hours trying to get to a meeting spot just south of Nowheresville.

Still, even after the weather prediction people had sworn record weather, the day started, at least for us, cold and wet. Sometimes I feel that Backroads Central is really located on Skull Island, as it seems to be perpetually shrouded in fog, mist and moisture.

Heck, we even have some giant apes and a monkey bar too.

It was so NOT like what we had expected that, if we didn’t have a set destination and the open-ended promise of lunch for our Backroads peeps, we might have shrugged off the ride till later in the day when the sun finally broke through.

But, we did have a plan and were soon off on the first real ride of the season for us.

The roads were shiny wet, and not exactly summer-time clean either, and we were all the way down into Warren County before the fog rising off the leftover snow banks along the Lackawanna Cut-Off embankments was replaced by a purifying blaze of remarkably strong February sunshine along Shades of Death road. Nice. Game on.

Still, in usual Backroads fashion, we ran into closed roads, muddy trails and one or two U-turns. This is what happens when you are out scouting for something different – you get something different. We have been Plan B people for years and are comfortable with this.

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BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

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In spite of ourselves we got to the Sky Café a tad early, being greeted by our Pennsylvanian friend Dale who was on a needed and cathartic ride that day. Soon riders from south Jersey rolled into the airport followed by riders from the other side of the Hudson River.

It seemed that playing Two-Wheel Hooky really appealed to a good number of riders on this super gift of a day.

We quickly filled up a number of tables and the Sky Café’s staff was truly superb in handling our ever-growing entourage.

During lunch - that was really, really good - we watched as small planes took off and landed. The Sky Café is the best place in the region if you are into those magnificent men in their flying machines – and what rider is not a closet pilot wannabe?

We were not the only riders who thought the Sky Café was a great idea this day, as another riding group rolled up not long after us. Shira told me later that some of the other riders there came down from our postings, but I didn’t get to meet them or their group – although everybody seemed to be chatting it up in the parking lot after lunch.

My bad and my apologies.

As Shira has written, we are a very friendly publication – if you see us say hi – we’d love to meet you and appreciate that you like and support the magazine.

By mid-afternoon it was time for our little late winter soiree to disperse and riders geared up and headed back down the road from whence they came. It was a ride that would bring them back to winter’s chilly and wet reality as we snuck back into the barn just minutes before the temperatures began to drop, the rain began to patter and the Holly King made his unwanted return.

We are sure that some other ‘pop-up’ rides will happen during 2018 – but there is always something a bit special about that first one – isn’t there?

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHTS AND REVIEWS

RIGG GEAR HURRICANE WATERPROOF BACKPACK Nelson Rigg continues to expand their Rigg Gear brand of 100% waterproof dry bags with the new Hurricane Waterproof Backpack. This dry backpack offers functionality, durability and mounting at an affordable price.

Made from a waterproof, UV coated Tarpaulin PVC featuring electronically heat welded seams. These bags keep your contents dry and free from dust no matter what weather or terrain you encounter.

These dry backpacks have a watertight roll closure with quick release buckles and an air purge valve to simplify rolling it closed. They feature an internal sleeve to hold a laptop, two outer side mesh pockets that can securely hold a 30oz fuel bottle, a pocket that can hold an optional one liter hydration bladder, and a removable Molle panel with a waterproof pocket on one side and a waterproof clear map/document pocket on the other. The molded back padding allows for airflow while the 3-way adjustable thick shoulder strap makes carrying the bag comfortable. They include quick release strap for mounting the bags as a waterproof tail pack through the reflective side webbing. They can easily mount to most motorcycles, PWC, and snowmobile. All Rigg Gear products come with a LIFETIME warranty. Available in two sizes: 20 Liter SE-3020 MSRP $119.95 and 40 Liter SE-3040 MSRP $139.95. For more information please visit your local dealer or visit www.rigggear.com or email at info@rigggear.com.

DUNLOP TRAILSMART ADV TIRES • SMART IN SO MANY WAYS Dunlop has a knack for making long-wearing, grippy, effective tires that won’t break the budget; consequently, their Roadsmarts are the OEM tire of choice for several models. Now, ADV bikes can join the fun with the advent of the Dunlop Trailsmarts. We had the chance to do about a 3,000-mile evaluation of the Trailsmarts on a Suzuki VStrom 650, and they performed brilliantly. The Trailsmart is advertised as a 90/10 on-road/off-road tire and that’s about the proportion in which they were tested.

On the road, the Trailsmarts were quiet and nimble, yet stable, allowing the Wee Strom to turn in and maneuver the way a fun middleweight should. On a dry road, the grip allowed footpeg-dragging lean angles. In the rain, they inspired confidence and the x-shaped grooves shed the water very effectively judging by the tracks left behind the test bike. Dunlop uses silica in their rubber compound, and that undoubtedly has something to do with both their dry and wet traction. Our tester previously used a more sport-touring-oriented tire and was continually surprised at how comparably the Trailsmarts performed on the pavement.

Off the pavement, the Trailsmarts were equally at home traversing a series of gravel roads in rural Virginia. On surfaces ranging from hard-packed to fairly loose gravel, the big blocks and x-shaped grooves provided plenty of traction and confidence-inspiring tracking. Neither road nor gravel use resulted in a great deal of wear, with no cupping or uneven tread wear, even down the center. At just over 3,000 miles, there is still plenty of tread left and the expectation is to easily double that or more.

The Trailsmarts come in a good variety of sizes for ADV bikes from 650 cc’s and up, including the big, litre-plus models. They’re reasonably priced and our tester would definitely remount a pair for continued use if he can ever wear out the originals. See www.dunlopmotorcycletires.com/tire-line/trailsmart/ for fitments for your bike. Wet or dry, on-road or off, these tires are a smart way to go. ~ Mark Byers

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BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHTS AND REVIEWS

ALTRIDER REINFORCEMENT CRASH BARS FOR THE BMW R 1200 GS WATER COOLED BMW’s water-cooled R 1200 GS is a powerful and versatile bike capable of eating up highway miles and tackling trails in the same trip. But if you’re counting on OEM crash bars to protect your engine, then you should know that it has been documented that the OEM bars’ hard rubber pad can punch a hole in the cylinder header. In fact, one magazine (not us) tested the BMW R1200 GSA crash bars and flexed the bars enough to crack the valve cover.

The photo to the right shows what happened when a bike was stationary and blew over from the wind.

A 600-pound bike, moving at just 10 miles per hour, creates an enormous amount of force. This is why reinforcement bars are needed.

AltRider Reinforcement Bars use 1 inch (25.4 mm) diameter stainless steel tubing, and directs the force in an almost straight line to the frame of the motorcycle. Unlike other designs that use plastic inserts, it uses a heat-treated, CNC-machined through bolt that provides critical strength and stability. They mount to the OEM bars with full-wrap two-part high-strength alloy industrial clamps attached to 3/16 inch (4.7 mm) thick mounting flanges. Installation and removal is a 15-minute job with the included stainless steel hardware. In fact AltRider is the only reinforcement bar that works with the 2017 and new models.

AltRider’s Reinforcement Bars are available in a silver electro-polish finish to match the OEM crash bars, or black powder coat to match the engine and frame and can be found at www.altrider.com for a $216.97 – money well spent if you are serious about your engine protection.

YUASA GYZ SERIES BATTERIES

It was the first day of summer - traditionally a warmer time of the year here in the northeast. But this day we were really northeast- just a few miles south of L’Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland.

This year I had some battery issues. Mostly my fault.

Like the time I left the key on and then walking away for a long lunch and then a longer ride to the local auto parts store to pick up another lithium battery, as that seems to be what they were selling these days.

Here is where honesty comes into play. These lithium batteries – although lighter and seemingly just as powerful as today’s AGM batteries – lack the starting power in really cold weather.

First day of summer, north end of Newfoundland, below freezing…. and the angst waiting to see if my normally dependable (till it ain’t) BMW would fire up!

This had us already looking for a more conventional and steady power source, like there was an AutoZone or Pep Boys within 100 miles.

Agonizingly and eventually we had the bike fired up (Hmm?) and I promised myself I would fix this as soon as I could.

But…. quickly, as we headed south and temps really became summer-ish my GS started at every push of the button. All was good in the world. My memory was shortened.

Then football started (did we really care this year?), the World Series (who won?) and then a winter with The Walking Dead.

One day, I headed out to steal a ride on a bright and sunny 30-degree day, and things had gotten bad again.

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHTS AND REVIEWS Lithium…. it is a drug right? Not so much for a battery.

I humbly decided that my GS, that is already heavy, would not be hurt by a few extra pounds and humbly ordered Yuasa’s biggest, baddest battery, the new GYZ-Series AGM Battery. The bike is not worth much if it doesn’t start, right?

No ravioli for me, I’ll have the salad.

For my GS and its weird wiring configuration (not very stock) I ordered the new GYZ16HL (absorbed glass mat). In my hands I was reminded of the size and heft of these compared to the super-light lithium battery next to it. It was easy to get used to little batteries. But? Once installed starting was instantaneous - even at very, very cold deep winter conditions.

So, it comes down to a give & take on the benefits of a super lightweight battery or one that weighs pounds more, that works like a powerhouse every time. It seems obvious to go for bigger, modern and more reliable.

To find the battery that fits your machine and what the best option is for your application log onto www.yuasabatteries.com.

THE “49NER” BAG FROM RKA RKA has released its new flagship product, The “49ner” Bag. This newest creation from the maker of so many excellent bags and luggage has taken tail bags to the next level.

Since RKA names their luggage after places and things, it was only appropriate to name this piece of luggage “The 49ner” after its size (49 liters) and the famous Hwy 49 that runs down the spine of California called “The Mother Lode Road.”

This new RKA rack bag will fit almost any rear seat racks but it was designed and created for the GT/RT owners that do not want to pay BMW dollars (Bring Much Wampum) for a BMW hard case bag. This is a good size bag and the main compartment comes with dividers to design up to six compartments of your choice. Excellent for photo and camera enthusiasts.

There are two compartments and the top section contains a zippered see-through mesh compartment, an organizer for keys, pens, phone, sunscreen and removable vanity mirror. The straps are adjustable so you can use the included mirror at any angle or height.

The “49ner” Bag is designed to fit most OEM and after market racks and goes on and off easily. It has an adjustable shoulder strap for carrying ease off the bike.

The bag is constructed of 600 x 300 Denier Polyester with Vinyl Laminated PVC and diamond embossed material. All zippers are YKK and inserts are 60th ABS or polystyrene in the bottom. The “49ner” Bag is finished and lined in main compartments and major areas and a 3/8 inch foam combined onto a 200 denier coated nylon for the inside lining, which is a nice light blue color to make it easy to find items quickly. The rain cover is included.

The “49ner” Bag will easily swallow up your laptop, gear and gadgets that you will need to bring along for the ride whether it be an overnight jaunt or a month long tour. $325 from www.rka-luggage.com

‘50s-Style Drive-In Restaurant Full and Varied Menu Room for the Whole Gang Spring is here! Join us at

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BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

The CLASS of 2017 or the last number of years we have been attending, and then passing onto you our readers, some words about reg Pridmore’s CLaSS riding Schools, being held once a year along the southern border of Virginia at Vir – Virginia international raceway.

F

after schlepping cast and crew from the west coast for so many years we were told that this coming 2017 trip around the sun might be reg’s last to the east coast. Sad, but true, and we can understand as reg and Gigi have put in many years, thousands of miles and even more smiles on the faces of their students.

Knowing this might be the real swan song for the east we put out the invitation to friends and readers for those looking to improve their riding skills and motorcycling enjoyment.

We could just tell you about the two days with reg & Company – but Backroads is, first and foremost, a touring magazine so we’d like to paint the whole picture of the journey, CLaSS and the ride back.

words: Brian Rathjen images: etechphoto.com and Brian Rathjen

Southbound Some would meet us down at VIR, and a few of us took a circuitous route down, making a two-day run to the track.

Our ride began for breakfast in Fogelsville, Pennsylvania, which gave us a quick and easy hop through the Amish country and rolling farmlands around Lancaster and into Maryland before dropping into the Dominion State.

The day started on the colder side and a bit moist, but by mid-morning the PA sky was beginning to lighten and the temperatures slowly began to creep up as the layers of riding gear began to slip off.

We have always enjoyed this part of Pennsylvania, but truly enjoyed the Gunpowder and Prettyboy regions of Maryland.

Here the roads were tight and twisty and had some great elevation changes with the occasionally stunning view to be found.

We crossed the Potomac at Points of Rock and spun our bikes west and then past something that we had just written about here in Backroads.

I promised our group I would bring them to one of those places the U.S. government doesn’t want them to see – a site outside Bluemont, Virginia. Officially a FEMA facility, it is really one of the places where the government will go if (when) the shit hits the fan.

Our friend Gary asked if it was a secret how would we know when we were there.

We told him he would….and he did.

A mile and a half of barbed wire closed off fence with U.S Govt. Property signs every 6 feet. It is huge and, for a FEMA site, incredibly overbuilt. That’s because it is Mount Weather and it is the real deal on Blue Mountain Road just 20 miles out from Front Royal, our stop for the night.

We got in a short time later spending the last half hour’s ride battling the worst sun glare I have ever ridden in. In truth I was missing the deep clouds of the morning at this point. All in all a great first day on the road to the Class of 2017.

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The Road to Appomattox We got a good start in the crisp Virginia mountain air as we rode onto the Skyline Drive. Although 105 miles long, we’d ride just a little more than half of it south this day.

Be prepared to pay if you do not have a Park Pass, as it will take a cool Jackson from your wallet to get on this beautiful piece of Old Dominion roadway. And, beautiful it was this day with the valleys to the west lit with a clear blue sky and gatherings of clouds flitting around the glens and the Shenandoah River.

When we ran to the eastern side of the ridge the peaks rose from a blanket of deep clouds that fogged in the long valley for miles and miles.

Truly stunning and a memorable start to any day’s ride.

No one minded the gate price at this point.

We hopped off onto Route 33 looking to fill up the bikes and empty the bladders – breakfast was a good idea too – which we found all not too far off our route in Ruckersville.

Fully fed, caffeinated and fueled we continued south along some impres-

aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS sive roadways that never were too crowded and offered miles of sweepers and elevation changes giving us a great way to get loose and confident for the upcoming two days at CLASS. But, along the way there was one important place we had to stop and that was Appomattox.

As we all know on April 9, 1865, the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia in the McLean House in the village of Appomattox Court House, Virginia signaled the end of the nation’s largest war.

We spent a good hour at the historic site and the importance of this small farm in Virginia was not lost on us one bit.

By early evening we rolled into VIR and, although a bit tired, had to begin prepping the bikes for the next two days schooling.

Mirrors off or taped, brake light taped, bags and panniers removed and tire pressures dropped from a street ready high 30s to a far lower track friendly pressure.

Dinner was had at the track this night and by 10:30 we were tucked into bed watching Shira’s Cubbies and the Dodgers battling it out.

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BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

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Two Days at VIR hello old friend, it’s really good to see you once again. Eric Clapton There is a reason we do CLASS and other schools like Ride Like a Pro and that is everything that you learn to make your riding more fun, safer and proficient is well worth the effort.

We have been coming to Reg Pridmore’s CLASS for many years and the last five or six here along the VA/NC borderlands. Virginia International Raceway is considered one of the most beautiful, enjoyable and well-maintained circuits in the United States and we know that we love every mile of the 2.25 north course.

As Shira said when we talked during one of the breaks it was like riding with an old friend. I agreed.

While on the subject of old friends we also liked the fact that we had brought some friends along for the ride too.

After signing in and having your machine tech inspected we would break up the rest of the day with twenty-minute sessions - twenty on the track and twenty in the classroom, building on the previous discussions, ideas and riding instruction.

Reg and his team are not only excellent at what they do, but passionate as well. Each one of them has an uncanny knack of getting their points across and picking up on things, objectives and lessons that might need to be learned. With almost a dozen instructors roaming the track you are almost certain to be observed and evaluated on each session you spend riding around the picturesque Virginia countryside.

This day was a bit different as it started with a coldish 50 degree rain and most were very tentative heading onto a race course in such conditions, but Reg could not be happier as this would keep speeds down and attention up.

In truth it was some of the most fun I have had on a track ever.

Smiles all around as we came back in.

The day brightened, lessons were learned, or relearned in my case.

By late afternoon the sun was shining and we had logged nearly 130 miles of track time. Not bad for a day at school.

We had dinner once again at the Oak Tree Tavern, which is an 1850 plantation house with incredible woodwork done by Thomas Day, a rare free black man from neighboring Milton, North Carolina. His woodworking, stair cases, window frames, fireplaces and such, are known around the world and he was a true craftsman and it is rare to see such work these days, that was done by hand like his were back in the day.

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

Top Left: Day dawns cold and bright Bottom Left: Reg and Mark Byers Left: Reg imparts his wisdom Bottom: Helene is loving VIR

Top: Brian, Mike and Rick take the ride of their lives on the back of Reg’s bike Bottom: You’ll find all manner of bikes at CLASS - it’s all good!

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

Page 41

We had clear skies that night and with the front that had pushed through earlier that day much, much cooler temperatures for day two.

If I had never spent time in the rain on a track, I have never had to turn on the heated gear for the first session or two either. But that didn’t last, as the temps went up and so did rider confidence and skill levels.

This day went over much of what we had learned and practiced the previous day with additional tidbits and skill thought brought into play.

Right before lunch we did some braking exercises that really showed the progressive nature of today’s brakes on a modern motorcycle and then a bit later on a few of us took a ride on the back on Reg’s machine which, this day, was a new BMW R1200 RnineT. Great bike – very tiny passenger seat. Although Reg was wowing me with his prowess I began wishing he had taken me for a ride on my GS instead – a Gold Wing would have been better. I did not want to be the big galoot that made an AMA Hall of Famer crash Beyond my fears… riding with this living legend was amazing. He is the essence of smooth, as you could barely feel him shift and the bike leaned over to angles that I usually only reach in the middle of a get-off.

It was and is a truly eye-opening experience – just as it was when I rode behind him 19 years ago at Watkins Glen.

Thanks for the lap, Reg. Thanks for the memories too.

The afternoon passed far too quickly and soon we were out for the last session. At each lap I waited for the checkered flag to come out and signal the sad end of the day. Each time I got passed the pit entrance I made a “ding, ding, ding” jingle in my helmet.

Extra lap won!

But, all good things…

That afternoon certificates were handed out and applause was readily and gratefully sounded for Reg, Gigi and all the instructors.

It was two very full days of riding and just about 250 miles of seriously fun track time on one of the greatest tracks in America.

It seemed Richard Petty had come in the evening and took over the restaurant so we ordered a bunch of pizza from the nearby town of Milton, North Carolina and had an old-style pizza party in our paddock garage - slices, salad, beer, soda and wine for all.

A most excellent way to end this schoolin’ part of the Class of 2017.

Northward Ho! Funny thing about VIR; for us to head north we had to head south along Shira’s most excellent route into North Carolina for just a few miles before vectoring north and back into the Dominion State.

Page 42

aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS We love some of the made up names people have for great pieces of pavement down south, but here in southern Virginia they have a few interesting real names – on street signs and everything.

Climax and Tight Squeeze popped out – but the best road of the day had an easier-going and nondescript moniker – Tollers Ferry Road that spun up along the Roanoke River and then through Smith Mountain Lake.

Twisty, tight and with great hills and elevation changes it put our last two days and the lessons learned to most excellent use.

The braking drills and talk of panic control came into play when Bambi broke from the woods and shot across the pavement directly in front of bike. Instant roll off the throttle and a strong, but smooth squeeze of the front brakes while vectoring away from her ass kept her and me apart.

Close, oh so close.

And, this is why we practice and work on riding skills… not to go faster around the track – but to make it to the next town, meal and day.

It is about survival.

Shira’s route brought us up along a good bit of miles on the Blue Ridge Parkway, picking up the road at Peaks of Otter and heading north. We usually stay away from this Sunday driver tourist road, but on a Wednesday in autumn it was almost void of traffic and the few cars and RVs we ran into were kind enough to pull over and let us pass, making for some of the best BRP miles we can remember in a long time.

We had a method to our routing madness. We certainly could have gotten further north this day, but chose more westerly heading towards the small city of Staunton, Virginia riding into the town along a stellar piece of white-fenced and hilly roadway designated 252.

Our 20th Annual Spring Break will have its start here in May and, although we have been to the town before, we wanted to get an up close and overnight look at the old historic Virginian city.

The Stonewall Jackson Hotel was our bed for the night (not to be confused with the Stonewall Resort in WV) and the hotel could not be nicer, nor the staff more pleasant and accommodating.

The town of Staunton has a great, artsy and hip vibe to it, and we spent the later afternoon perusing the music store, quirky shops, coffee houses, brewery and, of course, their local ice cream parlor - The Split Banana.

Staunton is a super town and we are very much looking forward to heading back in a May. The next day reality was calling and we all needed to get back home, so we took advantage of our splendid interstate system and Shira and I were cruising up along the Delaware River by mid-afternoon, riding back into New Jersey and the small county backroads towards home. Piloting our machines with a great deal more confidence and smiles I might add – thank you Reg & crew.

Final thoughts…

When we made this offer to our friends and readers to come with us to CLASS this year we hoped some would jump on the chance to become better riders. They did.

We promised six days that would change the way you think about your riding and, for those who came, we are pretty confident we did just that.

Owning a motorcycle and knowing how to just operate it is dandy. Really knowing how to ride your machine, what you and it can do, what you and it are capable of and how to get the most out of your time spent on your motorcycle is a completely different animal.

The more you know the better it gets!

I had a conversation with a rider in Newfoundland, while waiting for a ferry, who told me he had been riding for 40 years and “didn’t need anyone to tell me how to ride.” He then paddle walked his bike onto the boat, obviously a bit scared to ride on with his feet on the pegs.

If you think you know it all, get it all and there is nothing else you can learn about riding… well, I feel a bit sorry for you.

You are cutting yourself short.

By golly, you might be a great rider after forty years.

Or, maybe you have been doing things only half as well as you could, or just badly, each riding season for four decades.

Me? I have a card on my shelf above my desk from motivational speaker Anthony Robbins. It simple says CANI. Constant and Never-Ending Improvement.

I take that to heart in everything in my life – but especially my motorcycle riding.

Since CLASS’ announcement that 2017 would be the last year coming east to VIR, they have reconsidered and, once again, added VIR to their repertoire in 2018.

Like the Eagles’ perpetual ‘Last Tour’ Reg and crew will be back October 15-16, 2018 and we highly reCommend you book your spot.

You can find all the details right here

www.classrides.com

Page 43

Route 739 • Dingmans Ferry, PA • 570.828.1920

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

Happy vs. Pepe Would you trust your ride to two puppets?

We think by now, after 20 years, you know how our rallies, and especially our routes, operate. if they work out and are just a touch off brilliant, both Shira and Brian will take all the glory and sit there nodding in Queenly and Kingly fashion when told what a great ride the day brought.

On the other hand - they both will scurry away like rats off a sinking ship if things go not exactly as planned. a little gravel does not count, right?

So as we begin to get into this new riding season and the upcoming 20th anniversary Spring Break rally we would like to give B & S a break from the stress and effort involved in creating routes for you kids, and let the boys do it…Seriously how hard can it be for two puppets?

But would Pepe work with happy? no way! Could happy put in the effort with Pepe on something this important? heck no! they are the trump and Schumer of Backroads…

So we thought we’d let them make a case for their own routes on an individual basis and you all will have a choice of whether your ride will be a happy or a very Pepe one. Whatever you choose - enjoy the ride!

Spenser T. Cat • CFO Backroads Inc.

Mr Happy: Well it is obvious why you should ride my Happy routes.

Look at me – do I not look like I have been everywhere and then some? Hmmm? My opponent, on the other hand, is a friggin’ monkey and…. Well, he is a friggin’ monkey. Nuff said, right?

I promise many, many miles of twistalicious pavement (you sure that is a word, Brian? Okay…) and a pot of gold waiting in your room when you get to the hotel.

Okay, that is a lie - but you will have a much better time than following a friggin’ monkey for I have used only the oldest, most venerated and ragged maps that I could scrounge up from way back in Monkey with a Gun where the mice live.

I tell you these maps are so old they gotta be good!

Ride Happy, ‘cause maybe I wasn’t lying about the gold.

Pepe: Well there you go again Happy – reminding us all of how old and decrepit you are – while I, like my routes, are fresh, fun and appetizing!

Unlike Blondy here I have used the latest in mapping technology, a new dartboard and the miracle of booze to create my rides and will bring you to our destinations in a seriously fun manner. It’ll be like a barrel of – well, you know.

So don’t fall for that dumb song and worry about being with Happy.

Ride with Pepe…it will be just that. Peppy!

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018

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20th Anniversary Spring Break Rally Routes As you have just read we have some guest Magellans making up the routes for us on this rally. With that in mind we thought we’d tell you a little bit about each one so you could, like a Grasshopper, choose wisely.

little different for a motorcycle rally. Should you arrive early enough, there is also the Camera Heritage Museum and the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library. Buy tickets ahead of time • americanshakespearecenter.com

CORK HOTEL TO STONEWALL JACKSON HOTEL

STONEWALL JACKSON HOTEL TO HOTEL FLOYD, VIRGINIA

Brought to you by Pepe the Monkey - 298 miles

Brought to you by Mr. Notso Happy -180 miles

GPS Download: www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/adf95y

GPS Download: www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/bdv84b

This ride will journey from Lancaster, Pennsylvania to Staunton, Virginia and is a shade under 300 miles – so get an early start.

Along the way there will be a ferry across the Potomac River the Historic White’s Ferry is the last of 100 ferries that used to operate on the Potomac River.

It will head west and then make a pass by the not-so-secret government base at Mount Weather. Look for the obvious and large FEMA signs. Stop at your own risk for a little monkey business.

By days end we will all be rolling into the Stonewall Jackson Hotel – a great place that oozes history.

That night you can visit the Bruce A. Elder Antique And Classic Museum (across from the Mill Street Grill – great place for dinner). Other options include a visit to the the Blackfriars Playhouse, the world’s only re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre, which will be performing Macbeth at 7:30 that evening. Tickets sell from $21 to $44 and this promises to be something a

As the crow flies Floyd is not so distant from Staunton, but leave it to that twisted little puppet to devise a journey that will combine pleasant and easy sweepers with some seriously demanding parts for this day – as this route will have some interesting challenges in the mountains.

As always pay attention and ride your own ride!

Make sure to fill up when you can and lunch can be found just a bit off the route in the town of Blacksburg - around 110 miles.

Note that off SR 311 is Old Catawba Rd. This road is gravely and VERY technical and Happy has stocked it with rabid dragons and angry South American pygmies with curare soaked blow darts.

To go around it (no shame) you can continue along 311 and head right on Bradshaw a bit down the road if you feel a bit sheepish.

Plenty of places in Floyd for dinner, our home for the next two nights.

Enjoy this great and very musical town.

FREE DAY IN FLOYD • WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO Monkeyin’ Around Floyd – 132 miles GPS Download: www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/20yyum

Well we are here to ride so Pepe has put together two routes for your pleasure. One is a spirited romp around the region that crosses over the mountains a number of times. The town of Christiansburg has a plethora of eateries, from local to chains, and might be a good place for lunch. From there this simian sojourn even spends a little bit of time along the Blue Ridge Parkway and the 25-mile charge over Indian Valley Road looks brilliant.

Mayberry RFD (Really Fun Day) – 126 miles GPS Download: www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/2hfku4

Pepe’s second ride is a run back to a true piece of Americana. Almost everybody has watched The Andy Griffith Show or Mayberry RFD, but not everybody knows that the TV town was based on a real place – Mount Airy, North Carolina.

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

20th Annual

Fall Fiesta 2018

Endless Mountain Excursion • Sept. 20-24 book early - rooms are limited

Thursday, September 20 Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel

Fri-Sat, September 21 + 22 Altoona Grand Hotel

Sunday, September 23 Inn at Jim Thorpe

700 Lackawanna ave, Scranton, Pa 570-342-8300 • www.radisson.com/scranton $104 + tax (Backroads Group discount)

1 Sheraton Drive, altoona, Pa 814-946-1631 • altoonagrandhotel.com $119 + tax (Backroads Group discount)

24 Broadway, jim thorpe, Pa 800-329-2599 • innjt.com $98-$148 + tax (Backroads Group discount)

Originally a French Renaissance-style train station in 1908, the Lackawanna Station has been completely renovated while keeping its history and artistic flair. Get here early and visit the Steamtown National Historic Site, Houdini Museum or just stroll downtown Scranton.

A great two-night stop, complete with indoor pool and fitness center. Saturday you can visit Punxsutawney Phil and ride through the Allegheny Forest, head to Horseshoe Curve and take the funicular or the 194 steps to the overlook, or simply enjoy the beautiful curves and sights this part of Pennsylvania has to offer.

Built in 1849, the Inn at Jim Thorpe is a perfect stop for our last night on the road. Within steps of the front door, there are shops, dining, live music and historic sites to fill your evening. If you arrive early, visit the Old Jail Museum with its eerie dungeon cells and mysterious hand print.

BACKROADS • aPriL 2018 Mayberry RFD icon Andy Griffith grew up in Mount Airy, and it’s no coincidence that a stroll down Mount Airy’s Main Street reminds people of the town of Mayberry from The Andy Griffith Show.

Yes, there are restaurants galore in this town but dessert is more fun and a stop at Miss Angels Heavenly Pies and the Hillbilly Creamery might be a better thought – although we are not sure about Moonshine Ice Cream.

Don’t get too sugared out - as the ride back to Floyd is nothing to throw monkey-poop at!

Happy’s Hungry Mother Fookin’ Thumbprint of God Loop – 270 miles GPS Download: www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/ava3j7

Notso felt one big ride was far superior to Pepe’s two rides, so he has created a full day romp – 270 miles of twists, turns, mountains and beauty that will take your breath away and leave you done at day’s end.

This ride will head over Indian Valley but in the other direction from the previous route (these two puppets are arguing who found it first).

SR 738, known as Robinson Tract Road, is going to be very serious indeed.

A lane and half wide this is a very tight and twisty country road. It has very little traffic and crosses two mountain ridges. Along this way you will experience multiple switchbacks that will challenge experienced riders.

Later on we will ride out of Burke’s Garden – called God’s Thumbprint.

Page 47 This bowl-shaped valley carved out of the top of a mountain offers the most breathtaking scenery this side of New Zealand, with verdant farmland, and abundant wildlife. Vanderbilt wanted to build Biltmore but was unable to purchase this 8-mile wide jewel, 3000 feet above sea level geographical oddity. Lunch at Matte’s, and keep on the lookout for camels – seriously.

From here it will be a quick jump to Route 16 – The Back of the Dragon.

If you have not had enough twists, turns and technical riding – then hold on lightly to your handlebars and look through the turns – this road will wear you out as we ride towards Hungry Mother State Park. A few hours later we will return to Floyd on very pleasant pavement and we think a great southern meal and music might be in order.

HOTEL FLOYD TO SOUTH BRANCH INN, MOOREFIELD, WV Pepe’s Wild Wonderful West Virginia - 260 miles GPS Download: www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/ti20sv

Always looking for options, Pepe’s WWV Route is a great mix of mountains, valleys and Americana as we head to the South Branch Inn and the Backroads Bowling Tournament – you do have a four-person team, right?

This day you can ride for 260 miles or add another 40 miles that run up and around Lost River State Park – which is a special place that we have visited before. Enjoy the ride and get ready to bowl!

SOUTH BRANCH TO LIBERTY MOUNTAIN , PA - 160 MILES GPS Download: www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/npek80

Happy stepped up for this last official ride of the Spring Break and, not to be outdone by a monkey when it comes to secret federal facilities, he promises yet another stop from last year’s Don’t Go There series.

But first Hap’s route will bring us through Lost River State Park. We’ll head northeast to cross the Potomac at Shepherdstown before we pass through the Antietam Battlefield – always worth reverently stopping. As we pass from Maryland into the Keystone state you will see what looks to be a large satellite installation atop a small mountain. This is not Verizon kids this is Raven Rock - Site R - one of the most incredibly secure and not so secret anymore government bases (thanks O’Life) in case the monkey poop hits the fan. We will pass the front door so feel free to wave.

Park the bikes, have a cold one and enjoy the grounds of Liberty Mountain Resort.We think it works well for the final night on the road for the 20th gathering of Backroads Ralliers.

Come Ride the Dragon Deals Gap 318 Curves in 11 Miles

www.dealsgap.com 800.889.5550 17548 Tapoco Road, Robbinsville, NC 28771

Deals Gap Store Motel Bar and Grill

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aPriL 2018 • BACKROADS

UP C OM I N G E VE NT S CAL END AR

What’s Happening

EVERY MONTH - WEATHER PERMITTING

JUNE 2018

Every Tuesday • two Wheeled tuesday at Spiegel restaurant • 26 1st avenue, nyC. an eclectic gathering of motorcycles served with multi-cuisine meals. Kick some tires, have some couscous, enjoy the crowd • www.spiegelnyc.com • 212-228-2894

4-9 • americade, the largest touring rally in the world, Lake George, ny • For more details and registration online: www.americade.com • 518-798-7888

Every Tuesday • Bike night @ the ear inn, 326 Spring St, nyC Every Thursday • Bike night at the Chatterbox Drive-in, rtes. 15/206, augusta, nj. tire kicking, good food and friends • wwwchatterboxdrivein.com Every Saturday April-October • Bergen County h-D Saddle Up Saturday. 9am for coffee and bagels. ride departs 10am. returns to dealership for Free music and food.

Proper attire MUSt be worn! BChD, 124 essex St, rochelle Park, nj • 201-843-6930

APRIL 2018 5 • Morton's BMW Off-road training Day. annual off-road training day at the Massey family farm. riders from beginning off-roaders to experienced adventurers can benefit from this all-day session, which includes morning drills and afternoon trail riding, plus lunch and all the fluids you'll need. Details: www.mortonsbmw.com • 540-891-9844.

12 • Frontline eurosports thursday rider’s night with Late Until eight hours and complimentary food (bustin’ out the smoker) to enjoy while taking advantage of Flash Sales.

540-387-9780 • www.frontlineeurosports.com • 1003 electric rd, Salem, Va.

6-9 • DirtDaze adventure Bike rally, Lake Luzerne, ny • For more details and registration online: www.dirtdazerally.com • 518-798-7888 14 • Frontline eurosports thursday rider’s night with Late Until eight hours and complimentary food (bustin’ out the smoker) to enjoy while taking advantage of Flash Sales.

540-387-9780 • www.frontlineeurosports.com • 1003 electric rd, Salem, Va. 9-16 • heliBars Open house Week during Laconia Bike Week. 20 industrial Way, Cornish, Me • 9am-5pm daily. installs, shop tours, product specials. if you’re in Laconia for Bike Week take the short ride to Maine to see where heliBars are made by american craftsmen and women • www.helibars.com • 800-289-1047 9-17 • 95th Laconia Motorcycle Week, the world’s oldest motorcycle rally, presented

by Progressive. Details and registration: LaconiaMCWeek.com • 603-366-2000 20 • 31st annual Gooch’s Garlic run presented by Blue Knights njiX to benefit Families of Children stricken with illness. Sign in: 4:30-6:30pm; KSU 6:30p. rockaway townsquare Mall, rt. 80/Mt. hope rd, rockaway, nj. More info: www.BKNJIX.org

JULY 2018

14 • Morton's BMW Spring Open house, 5099a jefferson Davis highway, Fredericksburg, Va 22408. Vendors invited to attend, family-friendly, all brands welcome. Complete info on the website: www.mortonsbmw.com or call 540-891-9844.

12 • Frontline eurosports thursday rider’s night with Late Until eight hours and complimentary food (bustin’ out the smoker) to enjoy while taking advantage of Flash Sales.

540-387-9780 • www.frontlineeurosports.com • 1003 electric rd, Salem, Va.

22 • First Chai ride of the Season. Sign in: temple Beth Sholom, 40-25 Fair Lawn ave, Fair Lawn, nj @ 830-10am with Glatt kosher breakfast.$25/rider - $15/passenger. Poker run thru Bergen County with 5 stops along the scenic route. Glatt kosher BBQ lunch after ride @ Kindred MC Clubhouse. aMa sanctioned. More info: Dr. Charlie Knapp @ 201-791-4161 • FL2thMan@aol.com

12-15 • BMW MOa international rally, Des Moines, ia • for more details and registration online: bmwmoaf.regfox.com/2018bmwmoarally

26-28 • 4th annual horizons Unlimited, appomatox, Va. For those who dream of adventure along the road less travelled • horizonsunlimited.com/virginia

MAY 2018 4-6 • international Female ride Day east Coast hosted by Garden State Girls Chapter of WOW. tramontin harley-Davidson, hope, nj • www.eventbrite.com/e/international-female-ride-day-east-coast-rally-may-4-6-2018-tickets-42000885780

14-15 • 42nd annual running of the ramapo 500. Watch for details. ramapomc.org 28 • 21st annual Kids & Cancer Benefit Motorcycle run. Sign in: Zippo-Case South Parking Lot, Congress St, Bradford, Pa 9-11:45am. $20/pp or 3 raffle tickets for $50.

Cruise through the beautiful mountains of scenic northern Pa, the allegheny natioinal Forest and southern nyS. Proceeds benefit individuals and kids and cancer programs.

For more details: www.kidsandcancerbenefiterun.com • 814-368-2764 16 • Frontline eurosports thursday rider’s night with Late Until eight hours and complimentary food (bustin’ out the smoker) to enjoy while taking advantage of Flash Sales.

540-387-9780 • www.frontlineeurosports.com • 1003 electric rd, Salem, Va.

AUGUST 2018

4-6 • Frontline eurosports annual Spring rally. See website for details • www.frontlineeurosports.com or call 540-387-9780

28-Sept. 1 • 40th Wing Ding, Knoxville, tn • https://wing-ding.org/

5-6 • 12 • Frontline eurosports hosts the BMW Demo truck. See website for full details or call 540-387-9780 • www.frontlineeurosports.com • 1003 electric rd, Salem, Va.

29-Sept. 3 • 115th anniversary harley-Davidson Celebration, Milwaukee, Wi • www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/milwaukee-115th.html

10-13 • 33rd annual nCOM Convention • Mobile, aL. host hotel: renaissance riverview Plaza hotel. Special rates available, book by 4/19/18. Details and registration online: http://onabike.com/event/2018-ncom-convention 16-21 • 20th ANNIVERSARY BACKROADS SPRING BREAK • it is time to plan for the return of great riding weather. this year will be the 20th Anniversary of our Rallies, and we hope to make it another great trip, with a bonus day at beginning and end • BOOK EARLY - ROOMS ARE LIMITED. heading south to Va and WV, you can find all the details on page 38 or visit www.backroadsusa.com/rallies.html 17 • Frontline eurosports thursday rider’s night with Late Until eight hours and complimentary food (bustin’ out the smoker) to enjoy while taking advantage of Flash Sales.

540-387-9780 • www.frontlineeurosports.com • 1003 electric rd, Salem, Va. 17-20 • COG northeast Spring Fling, Wellsboro, Pa. this area is abundant with museums, wineries, terrific scenery and great roads. the event fee includes Saturday group dinner buffet. non-members welcome. ride route sheets available. Complete details and registration online: www.tinyurl.com/COGSPrinGFLinG2018 or call jason Kaplitz @ 814-615-9138 18-20 • Morton's BMW Spring Fling rally at natural Bridge, Va. Located in Virginia's scenic and historic Shenandoah Valley, this rally brings together great riding, good food, comfortable accommodations, and wonderful company at the natural Bridge hotel and Conference Center. Featuring vendors, scavenger hunt covered bridge ride, door prizes, catered Brats & Brews Friday dinner, catered Saturday buffet dinner and presentation, and more, all at one affordable price. www.mortonsbmw.com/springfling_2018.htm to register or call 540-891-9844.

18-20 • Dover Moto riding for a Cure. Full details on page 25 • dovermoto.com 19-20 • 5th annual new Sweden 450 sponsored by the new Sweden BMW riders.

450 miles of great back roads linked together in the tri-state area. the ride will take place over the course of 2 days, traversing some of the best roads in new jersey, Pennsylvania and new york (and perhaps Delaware). We provide doughnuts and coffee during registration, free camping, a great dinner on Saturday night, prizes, a 50/50 drawing, a hearty breakfast on Sunday morning, and a finisher’s patch. route sheets at starting location, directions will clearly indicate mileage, turns, and gas/eating spots. GPS uploads available (Donations accepted). this is not a group ride or a parade. Sign-in between 8:30-10 am Saturday, May 19th at Cycle-Gear, 2070 rt. 70 (east) Cherry hill, nj 08003 and ends Sunday, May 20 at Pj Whelihans, 1854, rt. 70 (east) Cherry hill, nj 08034. Pre-registration $55, day of event $60 (credit cards accepted). $5 discount for new Sweden club members. More info and registration: http://450.nsbmwr.com 25-27 • Charter Oak rally hosted by Connecticut river Valley BMW riders. Crystal Pond at Camp nahaco, eastford ‘Quiet Corner, Ct. Camping showers, pretty country roads, great food (including our famous Friday nithg chili), door prizes and an excellent reason to get your motorcycle out of the garage. More info: email rally@crvbmw.org • web http://crvbmw.org

SEPTEMBER 2018 13 • Frontline eurosports thursday rider’s night with Late Until eight hours and complimentary food (bustin’ out the smoker) to enjoy while taking advantage of Flash Sales.

540-387-9780 • www.frontlineeurosports.com • 1003 electric rd, Salem, Va. 20-24 • 20TH ANNIVERSARY BACKROADS FALL FIESTA. the endless Mountain excursion. Scranton, Pa, altoona, Pa and jim thorpe, Pa will be our homes for four days of Pennsylvania's twisties, histories and mysteries. Details on page 38 or visit www.backroadsusa.com/rallies.html

POLAR BEAR GRAND TOUR 2018 it is not necessary to be a member of the Polar Bear Grand tour to do these rides. Polar Bear cancellations & updates will be posted on the website • www.polarbeargrandtour.com • Sign-in is from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. unless otherwise posted.

4-8-18 • Brian'S harLey-DaViDSOn, 600 S. Flowers Mill rd., Langhorne Pa 19047 • 215 752-9400 4-15-18 • the hiCKOry BBQ SMOKehOUSe, 743 route 28, Kingston, ny 12401 • 845-338-2424 4-22-18 • PLUMSteD GriLL, 457 rte. 539, Cream ridge, nj 08514 • 609-758-5552 4-29-18 • CaPe May V.F.W. post #386, n.j. 419 Congress St., Cape May, n.j. 08204 • 609-884-7961