gaz Ma our le T cyc tor Mo
JUNE
2014
ine
Motorcycles, Travel & Adventure
THE GATHERING
Volume 20 No. 6
W H A T ’ S
I N S I D E 38
MON T HLY COLUM N S
Motorcycles, Travel & Adventure
FREE WHEELIN’ ...............................................................4 WHATCHATHINKIN’........................................................5 POSTCARDS FROM THE HEDGE................................6
Publishers
Brian Rathjen • Shira Kamil
ON THE MARK.................................................................7
Contributors
Jeff Bahr, Mark Byers, Dave Erfer, Bill Heald, Tim Kessel, Jeffrey Kurtzman, Kirk Landmesser, Mike Stackhouse, Dr. Seymour O’Life
THROTTLE BLIPS ............................................................8 THOUGHTS FROM THE ROAD..................................10 BACKLASH ......................................................................11 INDUSTRY INFOBITES .................................................12
RiderWearHouse hits the road
34
MYSTERIOUS AMERICA .............................................15
Editorial Office BACKROADS, POB 317 Branchville NJ 07826
BIG CITY GETAWAY ......................................................17 GREAT ALL AMERICAN DINER RUN.......................19 WE’RE OUTTA HERE ....................................................21 SHIRA’S ICE CREAM RUN..........................................23 PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO SEE....................32 UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR.............................36 WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE......................................47
FEAT URES WE LEAVE THE GOOD LIFE ......................................25 RIDING UPSTREAM ON THE COLORADO ............38 GATHERING OF THE NORTONS...............................42 WHEN LIFE THROWS YOU A CURVE....................44
PROD UCT REVIEWS SHAD USA ZULUPACK DRY BAGS .........................31 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHTS .............................................48
The sun sets in the…East?
21
phone
973.948.4176
fax
973.948.0823
editor@backroadsusa.com
online
www.backroadsusa.com
Advertising
973-948-4176
BACKROADS (ISSN 1087-2088) is published monthly by BACKROADS™, Inc. 2014. 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.
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS
Page 4
FREE WHEELIN’ BRIAN RATHJEN
JB It is with great sadness that I tell you of the passing of our dear friend and “Throttle Blips” columnist Jeff Bahr. Jeff was killed while riding his Triumph Tiger near Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania – the victim of an 86 year old man leaving a grocery market and pulling directly into Jeff’s path. Jeff attempted to swerve into the northbound lane, but could not avoid the impact, state troopers reported. The front of the motorcycle struck the left front of the Cadillac. Jeff died at the scene. I have known Jeff since he showed up for a ride one Sunday at the State Line Lookout back in the 90’s. From the beginning he was a problem, in the best of ways. Never one for convention Jeff did an excellent job of calling some people and things for who and what they were. He rarely minced words when he thought somebody was wrong or something was amiss. He was one of the most “unfiltered” guys I knew. Shira would receive his monthly column armed with her red pen. This endeared him to many, infuriated others and separated him from the rest. This magazine is not large enough to hold the repartee between us, over the years, on capitalism, politics and bikes. Not to mention the occasional starlet.
A prolific writer Jeff was the author or co-author of more than a dozen books - including Weird Virginia, Amazing and Unusual USA and a number of Arm Chair Readers. He stood in for Dr. O’Life many a time, was an original member of Seymour’s ‘Tanked Bags’ and was a wealth of peculiar knowledge - remembering names and details of some of the oddest things and events. His Throttle Blips column, here in Backroads, always got readers thinking – for better or worse. Jeff recently survived Stage-4 lung cancer and the loss of an adopted stepson. It had been a difficult last few years. Jeff and I had cancer at the same time. During these months we were a support team to each other, with neither of us letting the other get too down, depressed or in any sort of despair. It seemed the one was always looking for the other and the next sunny and warm day to go exploring the backroads on two wheels. This is exactly what Jeff was doing when fate stepped in. After going through all this Shira and I wonder how, in any world, this can be fair. As those of you who have been with this magazine for a while and have attended any of our events know – Backroads has a large extended family and Jeff Bahr was a big part of that family. Our deepest thoughts go out to Jeff’s mom and sister, Maria and to all those who knew his words or were fortunate to know Jeff personally. Jeff Bahr was one of the finest and unique men I have ever known and Shira and I will miss him beyond words. Head west, brother.
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BACKROADS • JUNE 2014
W H ATC H AT H I N K I N ’ SHIRA KAMIL
Don’t Let time SLip AwAy This a particularly hard issue to put together. Yes, the weather has improved and sitting at a computer on a finally warm, sunny day is difficult, but that’s not what makes this troubling. It’s the fact that the space that should hold the words of our lost scribe, Jeff Bahr, instead is in memoriam. The photos used for the Mysterious America column were compiled by Jeff, as he was one to frequent these weird and wacky wonders that fill that column. Putting together the index page, I could not bring myself to take his name from the contributor’s list, as his thoughts and influences will continue to be a part of this magazine. Being blocked for what to pen, I remembered this piece I had done some time ago and felt it a good time for a revisit. Brian and I went for a great brunch ride recently; just sort of Googled brunch spots in NJ and found a cute little place snuggled down near Frenchtown. The morning broke to sunny skies, and, after what seemed like a lifetime, the temperatures were predicted to be above 60 degrees. Gearing up in preparation, I fitted my earplugs complete with speakers, to my zumo, and spun up some tunes. Normally I just let it shuffle, but I usually set the tone for the day and pick a good first riding song. That day it would be Robert Palmer’s ‘Twenty Million Things.’ It comes from confusion, all the things I left undone It comes from moment to moment, day to day, Time seems to slip away. I got twenty million things to do. All I can think about is you, with twenty million to do. Scooting down Route 521 listening to Mr. Palmer sing, I became quite sentimental thinking of his demise. So many things left to do, and no time to do them. That led to thinking of all the times I’d put off taking the bike out, even just to run simple errands, just because I had too much to do and hopping in the car was so much easier.
Page 5 I’m sure not by coincidence, the next few songs to whirl up were by an equally talented and departed artist, Steve Goodman. Unfortunately, I discovered Mr. Goodman after his passing, but have latched onto his songs and lyrics quite enthusiastically. ‘You better Get It While You Can’ ran through a similar scenario of taking advantage of the time: You better get it while you can, you better get it while you can. If you wait too long, it’ll all be gone, so you better get it while you can. Doesn’t matter if you’re rich or poor, it’s the same for a woman or a man. From the cradle to the crypt, it’s a mighty short trip, So you better get it while you can. This set my brain on how fortunate I am to be doing what I’m doing and having the time to ride and travel while I can enjoy it. I certainly realize that so many people have limited vacation and days to spend just tooling around on their motorcycles, but even a short hop for an hour or two can help get you in a great state of mind. I know many folks who commute on two wheels, and while sitting in traffic or being on some uninspiring roadways may not be the optimum situation, it’s still better than a car, train or bus. This month Andy Goldfine’s 23rd Annual Ride to Work Day will take place. Hopefully all you folks who don’t generally take your rides to work will do so, thus increasing the awareness of motorcycles on the roads. Seems with the rising oil prices and general economic status these days, it just makes sense to hop on the bike whenever possible – perhaps Andy should change it to Ride to Work Month until things calm down. As has been written many times in these pages, get out there whenever you can. Make that list of places you’d like to see, near and far. It could be that little museum in your town that you just never got to, or something you read about in Backroads, or a trip to Mongolia – whatever. Kind of like the Bucket List, only motorcycle-related and not so maudlin. Whatever you do, make time for something on that list at least once a month, if not more often. And just to confirm that some things disappear from this world far too soon, up popped Harry Chapin’s ‘A Better Place to Be.’ Slipping through the farmlands of New Jersey, I couldn’t think of a better place to be on that day, riding with my best friend and taking advantage of the time I’m given to get it while I can. I suggest we all do the same thing, as per Mr. Goodman.
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS
Page 6
P O S TC A R D S FROM THE HEDGE BILL HEALD
the GpS ConunDrum First, I wish to say one thing about the loss we just experienced: Godspeed, Jeff Bahr. It was an honor to be in the same publication as such a unique spirit. We are surrounded with many wondrous inventions that are designed to make our lives easier. That said, I think we have to be cautious in our adoption of these miracles, because even though we really are living in a Brave New World the application of the latest conveniences often comes at a price. I’ve been wrestling with GPS navigation since before it became commonplace, and I have to admit I really have a love/hate thing going on with what is after all some pretty amazing technology. This is especially pertinent these days thanks to the fact the GPS units are getting more accurate, more comprehensive in their coverage, more compact and durable, and even more affordable. This is further supplemented by what you can download to your “portable electronic device,” for a lot of apps for phones and tablets have GPS chops that rival the quality of dedicated units. Clearly, then, the Love aspect of my relationship has to do with the devices themselves, which are quite brilliant at doing what they’re supposed to do. It’s no exaggeration to say they’ve become pretty indispensable in modern life, at least with a substantial part of the population. Unlike ABS brakes, GPS navigation in various forms became available quite quickly after it showed up on automobiles, and there are presently several companies producing units aimed at motorcycles as well as a few that are incorporated with big touring rigs as a factory option. For the touring rider, these devices have made getting around in unknown places a snap, at least compared to having to consult a conventional map, right?
Shoot, these days you reveal a paper map and it looks like your unrolling the Dead Sea Scrolls. We can argue about what this means some other time. Now to the other side of the coin. The Hate part of my GPS relationship is a strange derivation of what I just mentioned that makes them so useful: their wonderful functionality when you’re a Stranger in a Strange Land. Even though statistics state (or at least they used to-I haven’t looked over them in a while) most accidents take place fairly close to home, I think there’s far more danger lurking out there when you’re in an unfamiliar place. While there’s certain acts of driver idiocy that seem universal, I have always felt different regions, cities, etc. have there own special flavor of stupid that drivers engage in, and one day I hope to produce the definitive work on the subject. In addition to driver behavior, there are also pockets of weirdness in the guise of traffic patterns, one-way systems, right-onred regulations, even traffic circle/rotaries (or roundabouts, as they are known in other countries). That last outrage should be banned in the US, because I feel most American drivers can’t deal with these swirling pools of mayhem. It’s not that they’re incapable of grasping the concept of rotary intersection where traffic doesn’t stop; it’s more that they are so comparatively rare in this country that out-oftowners (and even some locals) get terribly confused when they encounter one. Suffice it to say, when you are monitoring your GPS and encounter one of these Nine Circles of Hell you will have an awful lot on your attention plate when you need to divert 100% of your shield power to traffic. Throw in some potholes or other local landscape irregularities and things can get decidedly perilous in a hurry. It all comes back to what dominates my thinking these days when it comes to riding. I have discovered as I age, my faculties are not quite as sharp as (Continued on page 14)
BACKROADS • JUNE 2014
ON THE MARK MARK BYERS
ZZZAAAApp! Zzzaaapp! is NOT the sound you want to hear unless near one of those blue lights that’s sending a damn mosquito to bug Valhalla. It’s definitely not a sound you want to hear near your motorcycle. Surprising, then, is why manufacturers don’t provide more appropriate ways to tap the electric sap from your alternator. OEMs know we’re going to farkle. Driving lights, heated gear, MP3 players, GPSs, and intercoms are among the things we love to add, so why don’t they give us the option to do so in a safe, effective way? As usual, when customer service is absent, I suspect lawyers at play, but I’m tired of going to great lengths to get my tweek on. Give us some ready-placed connectors, like the auto guys do with trailer wiring. I just got through farkling the Wee, but I had to add a fuse panel to run wires to an assortment of gizmos. You can’t just put in a panel, however, or something’s bound to drain your battery, so it begets a relay, a relay begets a trigger wire, and a trigger wire begets a trigger circuit. If that sounds Biblical, it’s because by the time you get everything relayed and heat-shrunk and zip-tied, the hanging gardens of Babylon seem simple by comparison. You can try to run everything to terminals on the battery, but on one bike I needed longer battery screws just to accommodate them all. Speaking of zip-ties, they are genius…until you run the back of your hand across one that some other nerd didn’t cut off straight and it leaves a nice, bloody track (for you racers and track-day guys, also see “safety wire”). If properly installed, zip-ties are as handy as a buddy with a service manual. I think I used 2,000 of them on the Wee. When farkling, you need shrink – the head doctor and heat shrink. Fortunately, even though Radio Shack is now just a phone store, they still sell the little tubular Shrinky-Dinks for wires. The best is called SumiTube and it has glue inside that is activated by heat. One piece of advice: don’t appropriate the wife’s hair dryer and definitely stay away from a butane match as a heat source (unless you LIKE the smell of barbecued plastic). You can get a cheap heat gun at Michael’s and your wife can steal it for crafts. If zip-ties are from the gods, other things are tools of the devil. Those blue connectors that cut through the insulation are one example. If you need to tap into a wire, use a Posi-tap instead. If you’re going to use crimp connections, learn how to solder. A little dollop of solder will make sure that baby doesn’t pull out, then you can cover it with heat shrink and be confident that your gear won’t fail just when you need it. I use solder to tin the ends of the wires that go into the fuse block. A good solder joint is shiny: if it’s dull gray, it’s trouble. Dielectric grease is your friend. It’s a non-conducting goo that should go in any connector that is subject to water intrusion, on your light bulbs, and everywhere else you don’t want corrosion to happen (bullet terminals are infamous for corroding into oneness). If you coat the outside of your battery terminals with it, they will be less prone to grow a beard. Overkill? There is no such thing as overkill when you’re 200 miles from home in the cold rain and your heated grips give up, taking your driving lights with them. You may end up with no fuel injection or a fried electrical harness. Or, those double-wattage headlights
Page 7 you added fry your handlebar switches because, like the Wee, they’re not on a relay and all the power goes through the switches. Heaven help you if you have a CAN bus (short for Can’t Add Nothing). It is possible to hang things off that bus, but it takes farkling to a new level. If you’re a V-Strom owner, here’s a shameless plug for a one-man company called Eastern Beaver. He makes beautiful wire harnesses using OEM connectors so you can add farkles and trigger circuits and not have to cut into any wires. He also makes a replacement headlight harness that adds relays so your switches don’t go bad and you can even add a cutout switch to turn off one of the lights when you need the extra juice for heated gear. Farkle away, but beware the Zzzaaapp!
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS
Page 8
THROT TLE BLIPS • FAREWELL
TO
A
FRIEND
JB, that’s what I called him. Not sure why, or when that started but he said he liked it cause it made him feel important, and he was. Some mornings while I was on my way to work he would call me from either his favorite bagel shop or his bike and tell me of his plans for the day. He’d tell me about a great road he discovered or another museum he found, and he found a lot of wonderful museums to see. We’d talk about where we would ride that weekend, or a trip we should take. He would talk and talk and talk and I would listen because when I needed someone to vent to, he would listen. We were there for each other, and I think that’s why we were such good friends. I miss the big lug, the roads won’t be the same without him guiding me on the next adventure. Farewell JB, I hope you’re riding your perfect motorcycle now as fast and as far as you desire. Dave Erfer
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS
Page 10
TH OUGHTS FROM THE ROAD trAveL
Jeffrey Kurtzman
and selected my poison. Nobody sympathizing with me “you look soaked hon. Have some coffee. Hope you have a good trip”. No testing out of my A $13 Anchor Steam doesn’t taste any better than a $4 one but this beer is witty waitress banter. Just the cold glow of Apple’s finest and moments later pretty good nonetheless. To get to a point where I could order said investa lukewarm beer was delivered without fanfare – 18% gratuity already added. ment grade beverage I have endured the traffic laden roads of New York City, I wonder what the IPad is saving its tip money for. A new Android phone? three full parking lots at LaGuardia Airport and one very irate young lady in There was one bright spot. As Diane passed through security the TSA agent a truck with Jersey plates on it. This apoplectic female was hanging far commented about the motorcycle endorsement on her license. He then saw enough out the passenger window so as to make sure I could clearly see her me and we had a moment. What kind of bike do you ride? A Yamaha R1. raised middle finger directed at me. I do not need to be a lip reader to unBlue of course. We could have spent hours talking bikes but the pressure of derstand what she is trying to convey to me although I have no idea what my the line of sheeple building behind me made it a certain bet I would soon be transgression involved. Jerseyites. They are such an angry people. Despite observing my second bird of the day –maybe a whole flock. this soul bleaching experience, after I parked and began the mile march in With no seats available in the newly designed terminal, the family and I the rain to terminal D when I saw a lady and her son pulled up to the closed are relegated to staking out some floor space which I promptly annex as Jefgates of yet another parking field I felt their pain. I had driven around the fland north and declare all its residents free to do what they want within our airport for a half hour only to be rejected at each lot until I found one of the four by four borders. We are a peaceful country although we get very little last five spaces on the roof of a parking garage. I slogged across the busy done. We spend a lot of time on the floor – whether on purpose or the result roadway and explained to her where she could find this nirvana. She looked of too many $13 beers. grateful and sped off. I did not mention the $33 a day parking fee. Why ruin And all this is tolerable. No, it’s really just barely acceptable because there the surprise? is no other option today when it comes to flying and getting from point A to Such is airline travel today. To order my beer in the terminal restaurant I Point B as quickly as possible. But a month from now, I will quietly roll a never spoke with a waitress. Instead, I perused a menu on a table top IPad motorcycle out of the garage as the sun pushes up against the darkness from the east. I will turn the key and watch the needles sweep across the gauge faces. If all goes well, the bike will fire without incident and I will hop on board. We will then point ourselves in the direction we want to go and some ten hours later we will arrive somewhere tired but in good stead. Along the way we will probably encounter traffic, some irate drivers and who knows what else. Hopefully, a good dose of who knows what else. Sure, technology will intrude in the form of a GPS unit on the bike and maybe even some tunes in the helmet. But, when I stop for a burger at a small café somewhere in the mountains of Virginia you can bet your ass I won’t be punching my order in on a machine. Nope, the waitress might ask where I’m from and the cook might come out and give the motorcycle a once over if he is not too busy with what passes for a lunch crowd. Maybe when I leave I’ll find a family outside walking around the bike with the dad telling the children how he used to ride. That is when I ask if I can lift the kids on the seat. The youngest boy looks worried at first but then he succumbs to the magic that is motorcycles. Another rider is born. Back in my current reality I learn that the flight is delayed another two hours as the rain pours down. I’m told by a nice lady in a polyester suit provided by the airlines that there is a colossal storm hovering over us HIGHER TORQUE. SMOOTHER RIDE. FEWER FILL-UPS. and from what I have seen I believe that to be true. The INTRODUCING THE ALL -NEW 2014 SPYDER® RT. woman who I directed to a parking space over two With a new Rotax® 1330 ACE™ high-torque engine and a new 6-speed transmission, the road has hours ago somehow recognizes me in the chaotic ternever been so inviting. The high-torque response of the ACE engine gives you 40% more low-end torque and now can go up to 252 miles at 62 mph on one tank of gas.* While the new 6-speed minal. She actually takes the time to fight her way transmission provides an incredibly smooth ride for you through the stream of people to come over and thank and your passenger. Add in a unique Y-frame design me. Suck it lady from New Jersey. Your middle finger and 7 automotive technologies, and that rush you feel will be equal parts exhilaration and confidence. has been trumped by this lady’s moment of kindness in a very weary world. Jeffland is rapidly running out of provisions. It’s time to move the tribe onward to the gate. If I was instead traveling by bike I would be pulling on a rain suit right 4116 Sunrise Highway about now and getting ready to continue on my way. Massapequa, NY 11758 No standing on line three hours from now at a rental car 888-379-8652 counter at some sterile airport a thousand miles away from here. Instead, the people cowering under the www.IslandPowersports.com awning with me at the rest stop as they wait for the delOPEN 7 DAYS uge to slow so they can run to their cars would ask, “What are you going to do on that motorcycle? It’s rainThe Tri-State’s #1 Spyder Dealer ing.” The answer is as it always has been: ©2013 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP) All rights reserved. ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. In the U.S.A. products are distributed by BRP US INC. *Tested at a constant speed of Ride. 62 mph. Fuel mileage may vary depending on the following: Spyder RT models, personal riding habits, weather conditions, trip length, vehicle condition, vehicle configuration and other conditions. Up to 202 miles tested at
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BACKROADS • JUNE 2014
Page 11
BACKLASH Brian and Shira , I just received a “share” of your Facebook post from Ken Condon regarding Jeff’s death. What a tragedy. Dan and I didn’t know him well, but we felt we did through his articles and the few times we exchanged correspondence over book projects. I am so sorry to hear this, and hope that you will convey our sadness and fondness for him to his family. He was an “original,” and will be very much missed as part of the Backroads circle. Judith M. Kennedy • Whitehorse Press Shira and Brian, Came home an hour ago from a weekend of camping with my son up at Stokes, and was absolutely shocked by your email and this news. Can’t believe the absolute rotten timing of a disoriented 86 yr old! Sad, scary. Through BR’s rides and magazine, I felt he was part of my expanded brotherhood, and know it must hurt you both so much more. My prayers and wishes to his family, fiancé, and you - his close friends. God Bless all with Safe Riding, Craig Brian, I was at the Kitchen Shop in Honesdale, PA over the weekend and I ran into a lady wearing a Backroads jacket. I commented that it was my favorite magazine. Imagine my surprise when she introduced herself as your Mom! We had a wonderful conversation. Just wanted to let you know. It’s such a small world. BTW, it’s been 2 1/2 years, your Mom is due for another bike ride!!! Hint, hint.... Russ Bloomfield Dear Backroads Magazine, I want to sincerely thank you for bestowing the Backroads Lifetime Achievement in Motorcycling Excellence upon The Polar Bear Grand Tour. What an honor it is to have such an award!
Letters to the Editor On behalf of the staff and members of the Polar Bear Grand Tour, I thank you for this award. We will always treasure it! Ride safe, and enjoy the back roads. Bob Hartpence • Chairman Dear Editor, After reading your column in this month’s Backroads Magazine, a came across a glaring and inexcusable error. On page 4, second bullet point. “I know if I am in the back I ALWAYS like to know what is coming up next.” Who are you trying to kid? After riding with your for close to 20 years, I’ve never seen you anywhere close to even the back half of a group, none the less the “tailgunner”. What a joke! I doubt it will ever happen, but the day you’re not leading is the day you lost your GPS AND the day your tank fell off with your map in the bag. Loving regards, MB
Got something to say? We’d love to hear it. Letters may be edited, never censored, to fit.
Mail: BACKROADS • PO Box 317, Branchville NJ 07826 Fax: (973) 948-0823 • Email: editor@backroadsusa.com
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS
Page 12
IND USTRY INFOBITES
News from the Inside
LET’S PARTY LIKE’S IT’S 1984! V2V FOR MOTORCYCLES? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has stated that they do in fact intend to include motorcycles in the research they will be doing about vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication technology. V2V technology, in theory, allows for individual vehicles to communicate with each other on the road. The conversation would let the individual vehicles inform other vehicles as to how fast it is moving, where it is moving to, and how far away it is from other vehicles. The theory goes on to assume that using this technology will reduce crashes and therefore injury and loss of life. The technology works something like this: if a vehicle is approaching another vehicle at a greater rate of speed and a collision is imminent, the vehicle can brake itself to slow down and avoid the collision. Or if a distracted driver is bearing into your vehicle’s space, it will automatically employ evasive actions such as hard braking or swerving. “Vehicle-to-vehicle technology represents the next generation of auto safety improvements, building on the life-saving achievements we’ve already seen with safety belts and air bags,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “By helping drivers avoid crashes, this technology will play a key role in improving the way people get where they need to go while ensuring that the U.S. remains the leader in the global automotive industry.” When NHTSA announced that it was going to begin taking steps to enable V2V communications technology for light vehicles, the concern was that motorcycles would be negatively affected by not being included in the discussion. It was revealed that the initial research will focus on passenger cars, but motorcycles will be included eventually. NHTSA plans on equipping motorcycles with V2V technology so that the vehicle can transmit signals to other vehicles on the road to provide a warning of potential vehicle collision and avoid it. Technology changes to motorcycles are certainly beginning to rise. Liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, touch screen equipped Harley-Davidsons are just
the first wave. What comes next is anyone’s guess. Some of it is certain to be helpful, like GPS, but taking full control of a motorcycle away from the motorcyclist is one of the worst possible ideas in the universe – taking any controls away from the rider is not acceptable.
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OUR PASSION IS MOTORCYCLES - LET US SHARE IT WITH YOU
BACKROADS • JUNE 2014 spots.... Dates are October 20 to 31 - 12-day all-paved tour. They have all BMW GS models available for the Motorcycle Legends Tour. But you can also choice to ride other great Adventure bikes like the Kawasaki KLR650, Suzuki V-Strom DL650 or 1000 ABS or Yamaha’s XT1200Z Super Teneré.
DRIVER PRIVACY ACT AMENDED TO SECURE MOTORCYCLISTS’ INFO PROPOSAL NOW COVERS ALL MOTOR VEHICLE DATA A proposed change in the language of the Driver Privacy Act in the U.S. Senate would expand the bill’s scope to protect all information recorded by event data recorders installed on all “motor vehicles,” including motorcycles, the American Motorcyclist Association reports. The substitute amendment was offered in committee by Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) to S. 1925, which deals with information collected by event data recorders, sometimes referred to as “black boxes.” While the government does not require the installation of event data recorders on motorcycles, some current models are equipped with the devices. “The American Motorcyclist Association supports the Klobuchar amendment and believes that all information collected by event data recorders belongs to the owner of the vehicle or the person leasing the vehicle — whether they are on two, three or four wheels,” said Wayne Allard, AMA vice president of government relations. “Access to that data should come only at the discretion of the vehicle owner or lessee.” Allard thanked Sens. John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Klobuchar for working with the motorcycling community to make this needed change.
UN CALLS FOR MANDATORY HELMET USE Recently the 68th session of the United Nations voted to approve a non-binding resolution entitled “Improving Global Road Safety,” which sounds innocent enough, but when closely examined, has some very disturbing ideas concerning motorcyclists, motorcycles, and helmet laws. The most disturbing directive is “to encourage Member States (countries participating in the UN) to enact comprehensive legislation on key risk factors for road traffic injuries including the non-use of helmets.” Or in other words, universal mandatory global helmet law. Keep in mind this is a non-binding resolution, but many countries and legislative bodies take the UN’s suggestions very seriously. This is the warning shot across the bow. The United Nations is coming for motorcyclists. That is why it is so unfortunate that America’s own Permanent Representative to the United Nations, and a member of President Obama’s Cabinet voted in support of the resolution. She even spoke to the General Assembly in strong support of the resolution. The non-binding resolution has some other very troubling issues with regards to motorcyclists. For instance, one of the directives claims that there are insufficient policies in place to protect motorcyclists. The idea that one type of policy would work for every country in the United Nations is beyond fantasy. Our diverse global motorcycle community cannot exist under a one-size fit all approach. Another section of the resolution recognizes and commends The UN Economic Commission for Europe and the World Forum for the Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations to modify vehicle regulations to increase safety. This is essential in the UN calling for global harmonization of policy that could include helmet laws and universal vehicle anti-tampering measures. Both of these would devastate the motorcycle community and aftermarket industry in America. It is a clear picture of the mindset of the UN to support such an over-reaching resolution. By muddying the waters with controversial policies, the UN loses support for some very good ideas concerning distracted driving and Good Samaritan policies.
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SCHUBERTH NORTH AMERICA TO DISTRIBUTE HELD IN USA Schuberth North America is proud to announce their partnership with German motorcycle apparel and equipment manufacturer Held. Schuberth NA will serve as the sole distributor of Held products in the United States, with a selection of products to become available in June 2014. This selection will include Held’s famous GORE-TEX, leather and textile riding gloves, premium GORE-TEX textile adventure riding suits for both men and women, and waterproof bag systems. More information to be provided in coming weeks. “We are very excited to welcome Held Rider Equipment to the Schuberth North America family,” said Randy Northrup, Vice President of Schuberth North America. “Held uses the highest quality materials and draws on decades of engineering innovation to produce some of the best motorcycle gear available, which we believe will perfectly complement our offering of Schuberth helmets.” Best known worldwide for their award-winning glove lines, Held also designs and manufactures premium motorcycle safety gear, utilizing the highest quality materials and armour. Held’s innovations include being the first equipment manufacturer to implement naturally abrasion-resistant kangaroo and sting ray leathers in its products, the first to use a special inside stepped seam to eliminate seam discomfort, and the first manufacturer to use a titanium knuckle cover on their gloves.
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EPA ACKNOWLEDGES THAT ETHANOL DAMAGES ENGINES The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has publicly acknowledged that ethanol in gasoline can damage internal combustion engines by increasing exhaust temperatures and indirectly causing component failures, the American Motorcyclist Association reports. The EPA statements are found in a rule proposal issued by the Federal Trade Commission regarding a new label for pumps that supply fuel blends high in ethanol. According to the EPA, “[e]thanol impacts motor vehicles in two primary ways. First ... ethanol enleans the [air/fuel] ratio (increases the proportion of oxygen relative to hydrocarbons) which can lead to increased exhaust gas temperatures and potentially increase incremental deterioration of emission control hardware and performance over time, possibly causing catalyst failure. Second, ethanol can cause materials compatibility issues, which may lead to other component failures. “In motorcycles and nonroad products [using E15 and higher ethanol blends], EPA raised engine-failure concerns from overheating.” These EPA statements, contained in the FTC document, back the long-held position of the AMA. “The American Motorcyclist Association has fought the distribution of E15 fuel blends in an effort to protect motorcycle and all-terrain vehicles from the damage that ethanol causes,” said Wayne Allard, AMA vice president for government relations. “Now the EPA acknowledges that ethanol itself is
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS harmful to emissions hardware and other components on all motor vehicles. It is time for the federal government to pause, take a hard look at this product and change its entire approach to ethanol in fuels.” None of the estimated 22 million motorcycles and ATVs currently in operation can use fuels with blends higher than 10 percent ethanol. Doing so could void the manufacturer’s warranty, in addition to causing damage to the vehicle. We applaude the EPA’s decision in its proposed rule to roll back the requirement for wider distribution and use of E15 under its Renewable Fuel Standard.
POLARIS INDUSTRIES INC. CANCELS AMERICAN VICTORY RALLY IN 2014 DUE TO EXPANSION Polaris Industries Inc announced it is canceling the 2014 American Victory Rally due to extensive transformation of manufacturing lines at the company’s Spirit Lake, Iowa facility, home of the Victory product line and annual rally. “All of us at Victory are disappointed that we are unable to host the rally this year as we know our riders are passionate about their bikes and the opportunity to connect with each other, the Spirit Lake community and Victory employees at the annual rally,” said Marcy Bosch, committee chair, American Victory Rally. While the American Victory Rally won’t be happening this year, Victory owners regularly organize local rallies across the country. Rally attendees are encouraged to talk to their local dealers for information on other rallies or Victory events that might be happening in their area. poStCArDS from the heDGe (Continued from page 6) they were when I was in my twenties (I know-how can that be possible? I thought that only happened to OTHER people). Oh sure, there are those who knew me in my twenties who would argue that my faculties where pretty much on sabbatical most of the time during those salad days, but I wasn’t the guy who flipped the Suzuki when trying to perform a wheelie in front of our neighbors in Austin, was I Douglas? Most embarrassing. So there we are, in a city with streets and driving patterns and drivers and road hazards that we are unfamiliar with, and naturally we would rely on GPS to navigate as it’s really good at that. But it’s here where I think the Genie should be put back in the bottle and you should stay focused solely on the world around you, with few other distractions. But wait: how do you find your way around, and get to your destination? Well, in the past when I was going into a new city, I would stop (usually for gas) before diving in the maw of Evil, and literally memorize the map and directions as to where I was going. If needed, I’d write VERY simplified directions on a map and put it on my tank bag or Aerostich sleeve. Yes, I would be distracted for a second if I needed to glance at these aides, but I made them very simple, large and free of unnecessary detail. As good as the latest GPS is, I still think it’s more distracting and I feel voice instructions are a tad better than relying on a visual display but still distracting. I have had problems even in cars when I’m told to take the next left, as there is often a smaller road it’s not referring to that I go down by mistake. This is a personal failing, not a flaw in the software. I guess the ultimate motivation for my continual harping on staying focused and eliminating distraction is being aware that it’s the only real tool we have in a world full of deadly drivers. We have to know what they’re going to do before they do, and always expect them to do the dumbest, most dangerous maneuver imaginable. Tragically, there are some scenarios that we can’t do anything about, but as long as we ride we need to do the best we can and eliminate any and all potential distractions. Hey, I love GPS, but remember, like any miraculous technological solution, it’s a two-edged sword.
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Morton’s BMW Motorcycles Presents Dr. Seymour O’Life’s M Y STER IOUS AMER ICA DAreDeviL muSeum of niAGArA fALLS 303 rAinBow BLvD , niAGArA fALLS, ny 14303 • 716- 282-4046 Who ever said this was a man’s world? Well, up north, where New York and Canada share the mighty falls of Niagara, it was a woman who first conquered the famed waterfall. The year was 1901 and the now infamous Pan American Exposition was taking place in Buffalo, New York. History was made when President William McKinley was shot by an anarchist, Leon Czolgosz. The newly developed X-ray machine was displayed at the fair, but doctors were reluctant to use it on McKinley to search for the bullet because they did not know what side effects it might have had on him. Still even with all these history-changing events happening at Niagara, other news was to be made as well. On October 24th of that same year Annie Taylor became the first person and the first woman to go over the falls in a barrel and survive. Taylor, a 63 year old school teacher from Michigan, accompanied by her cat, decided to tempt fate in an effort to gain fame and fortune. With all that was going on at the Pan American Exposition Taylor felt she would be able to attract a huge crowd. On the afternoon of October 24th, 1901 a small boat towed the barrel containing Taylor and her cat into the main stream of the Niagara River where it was cut loose.
At approximately 4:30 p.m. the barrel was seen edging over the brink, only to reappear less than a minute later where it was seen floating at the base of the falls. Fifteen minutes later the barrel reappeared close to the Canadian shore, where it was dragged to a rock and the barrel lid removed. To everyone’s amazement, Annie Taylor and her (we would think) unhappy cat, emerged from her barrel, dazed but triumphant. Her only injury was a cut on her forehead that she received while being extracted from her barrel (or mauled by her cat?). Thus began a history of ‘daredevils’ attempting to grab their own bit of history. As you would think, many times things did not end well at all. On July 25, 1911 the infamous Bobby Leach plunged over the falls in a steel barrel.
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Page 16 Bobby broke both kneecaps and his jaw during his daring event. Years later while touring in New Zealand, Bobby slipped on an orange peel and died from complications due to gangrene. On July 11, 1920 Englishman Charles G. Stephens equipped his wooden barrel with an anvil for ballast. Charles tied himself to the anvil for security. After the plunge, Chuck’s right arm was the only item left in the barrel. Ouch! The first Canadian to conquer the falls was Karel Soucek. Karel survived the plunge, but later that year Karel was killed while recreating the drop from a platform inside the Houston Astrodome when his barrel hit the edge of the water tank. Do you see a trend here, kids? Still today you can see many of the barrels and vessels that have sailed over the edge of Niagara at the Daredevil Museum of Niagara Falls. Step into the barrels and floatation contraptions of Niagara Falls most famous and infamous stunt attempts at the Daredevil Museum of Niagara Falls on the New York side of the border. This exciting museum chronicles the sometimes deadly, sometimes heroic feats that have been attempted at Niagara Falls and includes some incredible artifacts. Visitors to this free museum will see the inner tubewrapped barrel used by Steven Trotter in 1985. Trotter returned to the falls again to make his second attempt; this time with a female partner, Lori Martin, a caterer from Georgia. They were the first male and female to make the big drop together. Probably the most dramatic attempt was Robert Overcracker who tried to pilot a jetski over the brink of the Horseshoe Falls to help promote awareness for the homeless. His parachute did not open and he plunged to his death. His body was never recovered. Some people didn’t feel the need for a barrel like Kirk Jones who went over the falls with nothing but the clothes on his back. He miraculously survived with just some bruises but was fined $2,300 and banned from Canada for life! Oh, the shame! Many of these barrels, contraptions and craft can be seen at the Daredevil Museum of Niagara Falls - a fascinating place where you can get up close and see some of these artifacts and fiascos in person and certainly a place that has a spot in this Mysterious America. O’Life out!
SLIM CHANCE YOU’LL FIND ANOTHER BOBBER LIKE IT…
…ANYWHERE. Cross Country Open House Saturday June 7 see website for details
Cross Country Open House • Saturday, June 7 See website for details
Cross Country Powersports 911 Middlesex Ave, Metuchen, NJ (732) 491-2900
www.CrossCountryPowersports.com ®
Victory and Victory Motorcycles are registered trademarks of Polaris Industries, Inc. Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing and obey the speed limit. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. ©2013 Polaris Industries Inc.
Cross Country Powersports 911 Middlesex Ave, Metuchen, NJ (732) 491-2900
www.CrossCountryPowersports.com
BACKROADS • JUNE 2014
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Hanover Powersports Presents
BIG CIT Y G ETAWAY prohiBition DiStiLLery 10 union St, roSCoe, ny • 607-498-4511 tAStinG room AnD tour hourS: noon – 6pm monDAy thru SunDAy Disclaimer: Tasting is not drinking. Be Responsible. Buy a bottle, or two, for consumption when the bikes are parked. Now, on to the good part… The year was 1920; to be specific January 16th. The 18th amendment was enacted and with it brought the end of legal drinking in the United States for the next 13 years. But did that stop us? Heck no! It did start a booming business of folks selling alcohol under the radar screen. Speakeasies popped up across the nation, helping people break the law and continue to enjoy themselves. Rum-running, smuggling of alcohol over water, became a huge business, with ships bringing rum (duh) from Bimini to Florida speakeasies. With rum being so cheap, there was not enough profit, so they began bringing French champagne and English gin to New York City and Boston, where the prices were high. According to the PBS documentary ‘Prohibition’, the term ‘bootlegging’ was popularized when thousands of city dwellers would sell liquor from flasks they kept in their boot leg. The heydey of American spirits was born, with everyone from school teachers to presidents keeping a supply on hand. Moonshiners, bootleggers and rumrunners were making a fortune, the Roaring 20s was in full swing, women were drinking with men in public and, soon after with the 19th Amend-
daytrip ideas to get out of the daily grind ment, they were voting as well. Life was good, sort of. The 21st Amendment, repealing Prohibition, showed us that it is better to imbibe, and the liquor was soon flowing freely, as well as legally, once again. The year was 2009. Brian Facquet and John Walsh, said ‘to heck with the financial woes’, quit their jobs and followed their dreams to produce a locally crafted spirit that respected a sense of tenacity found in the American entrepreneur. What they ended up with is a damn fine hooch made from 100% corn, locally grown and produced in the town of Roscoe, home of fly fishing and beautiful motorcycle riding. Their initial recipe won a silver medal at the San Francisco World Spirits competition and, from there, they spent some time perfecting it to bring you the floral smoothness you taste today in Bootlegger 21 New York Vodka, named for the 21st Amendment which brought booze back to the public. They moved to their current digs in the historic fire house in 2013. The space is perfect for their needs, with a beautiful tasting room and enough real estate for stills, drums and bottling, and the aging barrels which will soon produce their line of bourbon and whiskey. Our long-time acquaintance, Jeannette Moser, who is helping Brian and John with tastings and such, brought us around for the tour. We learned what ‘6 times distilled’ meant and exactly what ‘charcoal filtered’ is and does. We
Page 18 saw the different stills and the difference between vodka, gin and whiskey distilling and what goes into, and comes out of, each metal tank from start to finish. Did you know one of the differences between bourbon and whiskey comes from the barrels in which they age? Bourbon can only be aged in ‘virgin’ barrels, while whiskey can spend its time in used barrels. Their bottling is done on premise as well, with each bottle hand labeled. Their wonderful retro-botanical, stamped glass bottle is worth the price of admission alone. The label, which is based on the old prescription note one received to buy ‘medicinal’ alcohol during the days of prohibition states that Bootlegger 21 is ‘officially ‘not’ prohibited in all fifty state.’ What you’ll get when you taste Bootlegger 21 is smooth. It’s a ‘big’ vodka, almost full-bodied, and Brian Facquet likens it to unaged white whiskey. The smell is slightly sweet, which you’ll notice on your tongue, making it a superb sipping vodka. Throw in a couple of ice cubes and you’re good to go. If you like Bloody Marys, I highly recommend tasting the McClure’s Bloody Mary mixer that is sold at Prohibition Distillery. Made from all natural ingredients and based on their spicy pickle brine, you will not taste a better vegetable juice cocktail anywhere. Add some Bootlegger 21 and your Sunday brunch will be perfection. The town of Roscoe is also home to the Roscoe Brewing Co., maker of Trout Town American Amber Ale and the Barleyhopper. Located sort of around the corner, they have a tasting room and gift shop where you can sample their wares and see the works of some
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very talented local artists. If you happen to be staying in the Catskills, look for their brews on tap at many of the local restaurants and pubs. Here’s a short hop from Port Jervis, NY to Prohibition Distillery. You can certainly make a much longer loop, heading into Catskill Park and ending in Roscoe or, better yet, stop at Prohibition and pick up a bottle and then end your day at any of the great lodgings available in this region. Whatever you do, enjoy yourself and remember, tasting is not drinking and be responsible. Shira Kamil rip & ride® page 52
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G REAT ALL AMERICAN DINER RUN the humminGBirD houSe 310 route 94 South, newton, nJ 07860 973-300-0333 • www.humminGBirDhouSenJ.Com The story of Route 94 is really a tale of two rivers as this historic highway runs some 80 miles from the Hudson River Valley to the Delaware River. Another good thing about Route 94 is the incredible number of fantastic roads that run in and around this old piece of pavement. Along the way it meanders through historic towns, some big, some small and there are a number of great restaurants along the way, but this month we want to feature a relative newcomer to Route 94 that has put up shop in an old farm-style home just south of Newton, New Jersey. Welcome to The Hummingbird House. The Hummingbird House was once known as the James Mattison House. This house was built in the late 1700s, probably around 1793, by James Mattison who had come to Sussex County in 1780. It has had a colorful history since. We spotted the new incarnation of this establishment that was a Tea House in a previous life. It had sat closed for a bit and seeing it now open and serving breakfast and lunch we knew we’d soon have to stop in and do some research for the GAADR! We took a spin over one bright late winter day, meeting some friends there that had ridden over to join us. The Hummingbird House has a distinct and comfortable country feel to it. Located right on Route 94, they have a large lot that’ll hold any good-sized riding group, stone patio and wooden wraparound deck – all good for al fresco dining during the warmer months. There are a number of decent sized rooms and we all commented on the great old and wide wooden plank floors.
tasty places to take your bike quently visit the family after Mike Biron’s passing. The family feels that the hummingbird would visit to let them know that the future would be great. It turned out to be such a good omen. In addition to the bird being apart of the logo the strong mountain behind it is the beautiful Burgess Adirondack Mountain where Mike’s ashes rest. Entering the restaurant we took a seat at one of the larger tables in the first of many rooms and took a gander at their breakfast menu. Almost everything on the morning menu comes with their special Hummingbird home fries. Fear not, there are no little mashed birds in this mix, rather a wonderful combination of spices and potatoes that everyone at our table raved about. The eggs benedict looked to be delicious and filling, as did their steak and farm fresh eggs. You can have two or three farm fresh eggs any style you’d like and add bacon, sausage, taylor ham (Jersey favorite) or the more conventional ham. The Hummingbird House offers four different
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omelettes including western, veggie, Italian or meat lovers or you can create your own, like I did staring with a meat lovers and adding fresh spinach and feta cheese. It and the Hummingbird home fries were perfect this day. Pancakes and French toast are well represented with seven selections including a dujour and their magnificent Hummingbird House French toast. Shira opted for their stuffed French toast, which featured bananas foster and was more like dessert than breakfast – always a plus. If you just want a sandwich they have you covered here as well, but we recommend the Fat Boy that serves up bacon, sausage, egg, cheese and hashbrowns. Straight to the aorta we say! We returned for lunch a week or so later. If you are thinking light try one of their salads – you have five to choose from including the special Hummingbird (what can we say they like the name!) which has a scrumptious combination of sun dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, and feta cheese. The Caesar was most excellent as well. You
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will also find a number of tasty sandwiches and paninis. How about something different and healthy – green apple and brie? You will find a fish sandwich which is ightly panko breaded and pan-pressed for a crisp exterior and flaky moist inside served with homemade tartar sauce. The burgers are most excellent as well and the special HBH burger comes with fried shoestring shallots, cheddar and a homemade aioli. All the burgers can be had with a choice of cheddar, provolone, American, brie or fresh mozzarella. Another nice idea, if you are not famished or feel like something different, is to try their meat and cheese platter; a selection of meats and cheeses served with a fresh rustic loaf and homemade pesto, a great combination sure to please. The Hummingbird House is open Tuesday – Sunday: 6am-3pm and they are closed Mondays. As we said Route 94 is a neat and historic road, but we’ll bring you up our own way – along the backroads from Harriman State Park. Also available is the GPS route for your Garmin device – enjoy! Rip & Ride® page 52
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Bergen County Harley-Davidson Presents
W E’RE OUT TA HERE inDiAn roCk inn 2206 river roAD / route 32, upper BLACk eDDy, pA 18972 610- 982-9600 • inDiAnroCkinn.Com We have seen many a nice sunset, after a good day’s ride, but as we gazed westward from our perch on the porch of the Pennsylvania side of the Delaware River it struck us that we were on the PA-side yet watching the sun set over the river and New Jersey. I’m no geography major, but doesn’t the sun rise in the east and set in the west? At least that is what I have always understood. Still here we were… and there was no denying that our star was quickly
a weekend destination keeping you on the backroads heading towards the horizon and the drinks, company and ambiance of the large wooden porch in front of the Indian Rock inn, as superb as it all was, was indeed facing west. Located just south of the city of Easton, along a nook of the Delaware River that flows to the north and Pennsylvania is actually east of New Jersey, you will find the Indian Rock Inn. To push our credibility even more I’d like to say that we were told that this spot on the river has been in the service industry for more than 700 years. Okay, how’s that? Well it seems that in pre-European times the local Lenape tribes fished this part of the river and created a large stone pool at the base of the high and rocky palisades above the river to hold their catch. They added to the natural pool with rock and stone and created a holding tank that would keep the fish till other Lenape could come shopping, as it were. When the building that is now the Indian Rock was first constructed back in 1820 this stone holding tank was used in the original foundation. There are even tavern licenses dating back years before – so no matter how you look at it, for years this part of the river has had a great allure for we humans. It still does today. Unlike most of Bucks County, which can be a bit pretentious and expensive, Beverly and Tom, who now call the inn home, keep things friendly, inviting and reasonably affordable. The weekend of the big Norton Gathering at Washington’s Crossing, about 30 miles south, we meandered over to Upper Black Eddy and took a room at Indian Rock.
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In fact, not that you will be bringing your pooch along on the bike (well, maybe some of you will) but, the Indian Rock is a pet friendly inn – they even like children and will let them stay too. The Saturday afternoon crowd at the Barking Dog was upbeat and very friendly as was the bartender, who did his profession proud and had a serious knowledge of good music, which he kept flowing, along with a well constructed cosmopolitan with extra (like a milk shake). I sauntered downstairs after the massage to find a happy buzz to the place and a serious sunset beginning to form over the river and the canal, which also runs directly in front of the Indian Rock. With the sun oddly setting over the skylands of New Jersey all was good with the world, but it was about to get better as the approaching darkness set off the diner bells in our heads and we took a seat in the many windowed dining room, watching the world pass by and taking a bit more interest when the occasional group of sport bikes came by at a rather brisk pace. Indian Rock has a lot to offer - great location, superior roads, nice porch with baffling sunset and the comfortable bar just steps away. But, it is their restaurant that really will grab you. Here Chef Val Roy Gerischer serves up some quality seafood, beef and game dishes inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, with entrees from northern Africa and Europe. This is a We’re Outta Here and not a Great All American Diner Run, but it could be – something to think about. With that being said let me just touch on some of what was offered that night. First off their Caesar was awesome and who wouldn’t love the asparagus with fresh goat cheese and pesto wrapped in puff pastry? Shira dove into their fried oysters that were so plump and flavorful by themselves that any dipping sauce was really an unnecessary evil. For dinner I chose the Deep Fried Pork Loin, coated in panko bread crumbs, deep fried, served with apricot horseradish sauce, and mashed potatoes. The apricot horseradish sauce was and is a brilliant idea and two flavors I would not have combined myself but, if I serve it to you at my home, know I made it up. The menu also included salmon, steak, rack of lamb and other tasty decisions. You could not go wrong with anything on the menu, but you must save room for dessert. The carrot cheeseClockwisee top left: White table clothes but casual dining • Take a seat on the porch to watch the world go by and the cake, split between us - as we are not total glutbeautiful sunset over the Delaware and New Jersey • The perfect Cosmo at the end of the day with an excellent meal tons - was divine. Other temptations included The old place has great charm within and without, and the friendly greeta white chocolate bread pudding with a whiskey hard sauce and vanilla creme ings from fellow travelers and some locals sitting on the sun drenched porch brulee. and at the bar was taken as a very good sign. The Indian Rock serves up Sunday Brunch, making it an excellent weekThere were some early diners and fellow riders in the two dining rooms end ride destination. and in a short time Beverly was showing us our home for the night – a large The next morning a cup of coffee and the silent atmosphere of the river nicely appointed room with a super comfortable queen bed and private bath. and the rocks was only occasionally disturbed by the trilling of song birds The room was phone and TV free, which worked for us as we wanted a and the occasional motorcycle heading south to Washington’s Crossing. At quiet evening and both had good books to read. this moment of time all was well in the world and we wouldn’t want to be Massages are available at the inn with prior arrangement which Shira had anywhere else. done, getting me, what she called, a month early birthday present. As you can tell we think the Indian Rock Inn is a most excellent place and Me, I will take a good massage any day and Judy gave a great one. far more real and comfortable than many of the more expensive and aloof While I was getting slightly pampered Shira was meeting and schmoozing inns further to the south. To make it even better we will give you a nice three with the local color at the long bar at their Barking Dog Saloon, named after state ride to this cozy getaway along the part of the Delaware that flows north, the Daschunds that really run the Indian Rock. not south. Enjoy! Rip & Ride® page 51
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hoLSten’S BrookDALe ConfeCtionery 1063 BroAD St, BLoomfieLD, nJ • 973-338-7091 • www.hoLStenS.Com mon-SAt: 11Am-11:30pm • Sun: noon-10pm Don’t Stop Believing – that there will always be ice cream, for better or for worse, in the pages of Backroads. And this month, we are definitely dealing with the better of the ice creams to be found on our hunt for homemade delights. Even though Holsten’s Brookdale Confectionery has been serving their finest dairy and chocolate temptations since 1939, it took the end of one of the hottest series on television to bring them to the spotlight. Much to the dismay of the locals who have been stopping in for their burgers, fries (NOT onion rings), ice cream sodas and take-home chocolates, Holsten’s, for whatever reason, was chosen for the last location shooting (no pun intended) of the Sopranos. I am a Jersey girl, born and bred, having pork roll running
through my veins (YUCK!) but I have to admit that I did not watch one episode of this series. No, I didn’t know ‘these’ types growing up – I was a good girl and had nothing to do with that element in Cliffside Park (although Frank Sinatra did attend his father’s wake at Macagna Funeral Home and one Willie Moretti was gunned down at Joe’s Restaurant across from Palisades Amusement Park). So the allure of sitting where Tony Soprano ate his last onion ring was not compelling as were the tweets and yelps heralding Holsten’s ice cream and all things creamy. Bloomfield may not be the quintessential motorcycling mecca, but it’s not Manhattan either. There are plenty of good roads to be found in Passaic county, and certainly in the rest of the state leading to your golden ring. We arrived on a weekday, and parking was easy to find. The store-
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front looks like you will be walking in to an old-timey luncheonette/ice cream parlor. The tinkle of the bell will remind you of days gone by, when you were a kid entering the penny candy store. To your left is the counter with appropriate red-covered swivel bar stools, soda fountain manned by the soda jerk (said with affection) who happens to be the person responsible for making the wonderful treat you are about to consume. He also makes fresh whipped
cream and the assorted sauces to dowse your ice cream of choice. Behind him is the grill that will sear your burger, should you be a bit peckish.
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Glancing to your right, your eyes will widen and you’ll start to feel a slight drool developing in your mouth, as you take in the cases of homemade chocolates – dark and milk, truffles, miniatures and, bestill my heart, butter crunch. Not to disappoint, they have some of those candies from days gone by, such as candy cigarettes (probably illegal in most states).
We slid onto two stools and perused the flavor menu. No surprises here, and no cute, trendy names to decipher. You’ve got your vanillas, chocolates and coffees’ strawberry, black raspberry and cookies and cream; some sherberts and ices and their flavor of the month, as well as some sugar free. Should you be a purist, order up a cup or cone with or without whipped cream. Should you be a glutton, how about a Banana Split or, better yet, a Holsten’s Special (four scoops, two toppings whipped cream, nuts, sprinkles and, of course, a cherry). There’s milk shakes, regular or ‘heavy’, floats, sodas and the always popular egg cream. On this day, I opted for a scoop of their Special Flavor – Vanilla Peanut Butter; how could I pass that up – and coffee chip, with peanut butter sauce crowning this beauty. Brian decided on a milk shake sporting cookies and cream. Both were excellent, decadent and extremely satisfying. We managed to escape without giving in to the chocolate devil, but if I find myself back in this part of Bloomfield, I don’t think I’ll be as lucky next time. If you venture to Holsten’s, and I highly recommend that you do, don’t be worried that the screen will turn to black before you can leave. Just be concerned that you’ll go into a sugar coma from all the goodness they have to offer.
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“We Leave the Good Life!” Mike Stackhouse
e’re planning a ride to the Isle De’ Madeleine, do you want to go?” That was the question asked by my good friend Michele late winter of 2013. “When?” was my reply. I wasn’t sure if Nadia and I could get away as it was going to be my first summer at a new job, Nadia was moving in and there were numerous other priorities planned out for the summer. BUT, I knew I was going to need a break so I tentatively said OK. I went online and checked out the archipelago the Isles form and, to be honest, my first thought was meh… . it looks very nice, but I want to go for a motorcycle ride. Good thing I had the good sense to trust my friends! Our friend from Montreal, Nancy-Lynn, was going to be the tour coordinator. This was great because, to be honest, I really didn’t have the time to plan things as busy as the summer was going to be. I did put in a request though. I noticed one of our favorite bands, Great Big Sea, was doing a concert in New Gloucester N.S. during our trip and I thought it would be fun to include the show. Nancy-Lynn was going to be riding her brand new Can Am Spyder RT, bought because her boyfriend didn’t ride and he’d be passenger. She’s been riding two wheels a long time but she’s also a little peanut of a woman (only in stature!) so she knew she’d need something
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to help support the load. Where there is a will, there is a way! Take note of this ladies and gents. Michele, on the other hand, was to ride her new (used) V-Strom 650. However, I received a call from her just before the trip and she said she felt more comfortable on her little Kawasaki EX500. After talking with her for a bit, I told her to ride the Strom up anyway and I’d see if I could “fit” it to her a bit better. Everyone met at my place in Maine (Nancy-Lynn coming from Montreal and Michelle from south of Boston) and we had a great evening meal and a few drinks while we checked out the machinery and made last minute plans. I got to meet Andre’ (Nancy-Lynn’s boyfriend) for the first time and we hit it off great. I was also happily surprised that our friend Chantal, also from Montreal, was joining the ride to PEI. After breakfast the following morning, I checked out Michele’s V-Strom. Her complaints were, she didn’t like the way it handled and she couldn’t get her feet on the ground like she wanted. There were also a couple other minor nit-picks to be addressed. It’s amazing, to me, that folks can ride bikes that aren’t even close to properly set up. Looking at Michele’s bike, I realized the previous owner had the bars and levers rotated forward, plus the aftermarket seat was too wide and spread her legs causing her to not be able to plant her feet at a stop. Furthermore, the shock pre-load was maxed out causing the bike not to settle when she was aboard. As I have a Wee-Strom as well, I grabbed my old stock seat and set it on her bike, I rolled the bars back and adjusted the controls, I set the pre-load down and I raised the fork tubes about an inch in the trees to lower the front end a bit. When Michele took it down the road, she came back all smiles! I even talked her into keeping the
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS
top box on so she could use it. (She was afraid it was going to make the bike too top heavy) With the little details out of the way, we were off. It was a prefect Maine day and we were almost 3 hours from my house when I realized I’d left my driver’s license and credit card at the house! On the breakdown lane of I-95 I weighed my options. Nadia had our passports and her credit cards so I made the executive decision to proceed. If I was asked for my license at the border, we’d just have to head home. With fingers crossed, we proceed across Maine to the Canadian border. Passports in hand, we breezed through customs much to my (and everyone else’s) relief! First stop, the Hilton in St. John New Brunswick. Nancy-Lynn sure knows how to pick them! We had some great rooms and proceeded to the streets where we sampled the music, art, and entertainment that makes the waterfront of St. John so much fun. While hoisting some drinks and toasting, Andre and Nancy-Lynn said, “We leave the good life!” Slight broken English? Nah, sounded great to everyone and for the rest of the trip “we LEAVE the good life” was our mantra. Saddling up the following morning, the plan was to hit the highway and blast to Amherst and then take the Glooscap Trail down to Joggins Fossil Cliffs. The weather was cooperating and we soon found ourselves on the beach at Joggins checking out fossils and petrified trees. If you’ve never been to Joggins, it’s a great place to take a break. Take a guided tour and check out the center which tells how some of the oldest fossils in the world are at Joggins. Even in my motorcycle boots, the walking was fine.
BACKROADS • JUNE 2014 After Joggins, we wound our way along the coast but had to cut inland due to our time schedule. We got into Pictou and checked into our rooms just in time to head to the Great Big Sea concert. If you’ve never heard of Great Big Sea, they’re a Newfoundland band that combine traditional folk flavor with rock. I’ve never seen them when they didn’t put on a high energy show. Alan Doyle’s (one of the lead singers) throat wasn’t good when he hit the stage and he could hardly speak but he still belted out some good songs with the rest of Great Big Sea filling in what he couldn’t do. They were on their 20th anniversary tour and you could tell they’ve been doing this and loving it for a loooong time. All in all, a great time. After a restless night in Pictou, we were off for Moncton, New Brunswick. We needed to be in Moncton for the following morning as the Can-Am needed its first service. The plan was to do Cape George and then meander across the Sunrise Trail back to Moncton to spend the night there. Cape George was breathtaking but also had Nancy-Lynn on her toes, as it was the first real test putting the Can-Am through a bunch of corners. She adapted quickly though and we were soon back on the Sunrise Trail. Along the way we hit some of the only rain of the trip. As we were coming into Tatamagouche, the skies started to open up. What do you do when it starts to rain in Tatamagouche? Pull into the Train Station Inn for lunch! I’ve written about the Train Station Inn before but it deserves another little blip. Without a doubt, we had the best chowder and the best dessert of the trip at the Train Station. I hadn’t had the chance to eat there on past trips but I will certainly not miss it if I’m within 50 miles the next time I’m in the area! If dining in an old railroad diner car and having some great food wasn’t enough, the heaviest rain came down while we were
Page 27 sipping coffee and having hot chowder. Sometimes you just live right. (Or, as we chanted, we leave the good life!) By the time we were done, the rain had lightened up and we headed to Moncton. If you’ve ever been between Amherst NS and Sackville NB, you know there is a spot of low lands between the two that the wind can HOWL through. I could say it was windy when we went through but, instead, let’s just say I’m going to get about 1000 more miles out of the right side of my tires than the left…. Yeow! We were looking for semis to hide behind. We pulled off at Fort Beausejour in NB to take a break after we got across the low lands. Fort Beausejour is one of those places you blast by on the highway and not notice. This is a crying shame because, for starters, the location is just plain beautiful. Sitting on highlands above the tidal plains and meadows of Fundy Bay, you can look for miles around you. The dykes and trenches from the Acadian settlers, wind farms, the ocean, all there to see. Even after hours, like we were, you can stand on the hill and just soak in the beauty that surrounds you. You can also see weather coming in like we did! The skies toward Moncton looked EVIL! You could see a serious rain line approaching and we figured it was going to be a wet ride to end the day. We saddled up and left the fort, but not before we learned it was the last outpost of the French. It fell to the British in 1755, and shortly after, the Acadians were driven out of the area, many to settle Louisiana and become what we now call Cajuns. Back to the ride though. As evil as the clouds looked from the fort, an odd thing happened about an hour into our ride. The highway started a gradual
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Page 28 turn to the north, AWAY from the storm. By the time we headed into Moncton, there were clouds and rain on either side of us, but no rain where we were! We pulled into our hotel and just as we got off the bikes, the sky opened up, while we stood under an overhang. We DO leave the good life. At dinner that evening, Andre’ said I was like Moses parting the seas. Not so sure about that but I’ll take that kind of luck anyway I can get it.
In the morning Nancy-Lynn and Andre’ got the CanAm serviced and back to the hotel by the time the rest of us were ready to leave. Michele had a patient (she’s a dental hygienist) that had asked her to go to Bouctouche, NB and take a picture of the welcome sign, as his folks were from the town. So I was told to lead the way. ‘Cept I really didn’t know the way and after taking us about an hour or so out of the way, we finally got going in the correct direction. We made it to Bouctouche eventually, had lunch, took said picture and then, after a stop in Shediac, high tailed it to Summerside, PEI where we were staying that night. I may have led everyone astray but at least the weather was PERFECT.
The only thing I’m going to say about our hotel in Summerside is, I think it’s going to be one of those places you read about on the news….Bought by an outfit out of China, its sole purpose is to funnel busloads of Chinese tourists through on their way to see the Ann of Green Gables house. Exits not marked, no hall lights, etc. If you end up in Summerside and the hotel you booked has a couple of Chinese Lion statues on either side of the entry, run away. You’ve been warned. A ride across Prince Edwards Island is never a bad thing and the weather was once again great. We made the ferry to the Isle De’ Madeleine in time and secured the bikes for the crossing. We took turns playing cards, checking things out, and sampling desserts on the menus. (Maybe a cocktail or two as well) Above deck the weather was SPECTACULAR. I don’t think I’ve ever been on as smooth a crossing as that day. The seas were flat calm and the lighting as we caught sight of the islands was perfection. The Isles couldn’t have looked more striking. The first islands we noticed were Entry Island and Havre Aubert Island. The slow rolling green hills with cliffs falling into the ocean just take your breath away. Interestingly, we found later that Entry Island and Grosse-Ile Island are actually Anglo and they call the Isles the Magdalen Islands there. Oh, did I mention that few people speak English? Actually, it really wasn’t that much of a problem as there always seemed to be someone who could help translate. Plus, we had Andre’ and Nancy-Lynn as personal translators. We stayed at a place right off the ferry and it was above an Italian restaurant. Lovely smells wafting in through the open windows. Windows open because there was no AC in the rooms… But no matter, we would still have a great time while we were there. We did learn that the bar next door didn’t stop playing music until around 2:30am. The good news was it was very good acoustical music and not something like AC-DC. Plus, we didn’t have to get up early. (LOVE island time!) One of the planned activities was to do a guided sea kayak tour. Nadia had put up with many miles on the back of the bike without a peep so it was only fair to agree to a morning out on the water. Truth be told, I would not have
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missed it for the world! We had a great guide and he took us on a fantastic tour through tunnels in the cliffs, that the sea had carved out of the soft rock that makes up the islands. Some of the tunnels lead into cavernous rooms where the ceiling had let go allowing the sun to shine in. They looked like something out of Indiana Jones. Nadia commented on the bright colors of the houses along the shore and we were surprised to hear the houses were painted the different colors so the fishermen could tell which house was theirs, when returning from the sea. We spent a good three hours plus on the water and couldn’t have asked for a better time. It was pretty cool to ride our motorcycles to a beach, strip out of our gear, go kayaking and then hop back on the bikes and ride off.
And ride we did. Every island seemed to have something different. Havre Aubert Island, on the south end of the archipelago, had a little artist colony with a bunch of cool shops and things to see. The islands are tied together by sand bars, on which the roads are built. There are sandy lagoons, dunes, places to swim, (the water is quite nice by the way) wind surfing, places that rent kite powered dune buggies, bicycle rentals, and I could go on and on. Basically, what I thought was going to be a “meh” trip turned out to be one of the best I’ve taken. As we often do, the group split up and went our different ways. We had the best crab meat sandwich I’ve ever tasted, while we were there, and really didn’t have a bad meal at all during our visit. The green rolling hills on the islands made for many photo ops. and you always had a view of the water it seemed. We saw the prototype vertical shaft wind generator that the world’s tallest, in Cap Chat, QC, was based on, while riding through the dunes. We also stopped at the interpretation center for the salt mine on the way to Grosse-Ile. The salt mine was another highlight on the trip. Although you can’t actually go down into the mine, the center pretty much fills you in on all the workings. We learned the archipelago was formed by a huge salt dome under the ocean floor. No one knew there was salt under the islands until the 80s when they were drilling test holes for oil and stumbled upon it. Interestingly, the point where the salt is closest to the surface is also a point where there are no neighbors and the inlet is deep enough to almost park a freighter at the mine! I didn’t think anyone could get that lucky. We also saw salt of all different colors. Clear being the purest, other salt resembled the rock salt we put on the roads and, believe it or not, (to the delight of Nadia as well I might add) PURPLE salt. We were told, you put salt into water and the minerals left on the bottom after it dissolves is what gives it the color. Curiously, the purple salt leaves nothing! Another thing we learned was the equipment that they use to mine is disassembled and brought down in
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Page 30 the elevator. Once below ground, they are reassembled and put to work. They never see the daylight again. Garages below ground service the vehicles because if they ever came up from below, no matter how much they were cleaned, the salt dust in all the nooks and crannies would corrode the vehicle solid in a matter of a few weeks. I thought the mine stop was very cool. The rest of the islands were equally as interesting. We stopped at
Old Harry on Grosse-Ile Island and walked the grounds where, in the 1700 and 1800s, walrus herds were hunted to extinction. We read how a dozen people could kill as many as 300-400 walrus in a night for the fat, hide and meat. It was very overwhelming to stand on the spot of such bloodshed. Still, the history of the island and the beauty of it made for one of those trips that you promise to repeat sometime. The evening return on the ferry came with another bout of rain and we were lucky enough to befriend a couple on a Harley that lived just down the road from the hotel we were staying in. They were happy to lead us through the fog and rain to our destination and, believe me, as tired as we were, we were thankful for their help. When we finally headed back home, there were hugs all around. NancyLynn and Andre’ were staying longer and heading to Cape Breton so Michele, Nadia and I hit the road and after 11 hours on the road, we rolled into my place. We had done close to 2000 miles, had eaten some of the best food I’d ever had, had been blessed with some perfect weather, caught some stellar music, and best of all, we had gotten to hang out with some GREAT people. I guess we do leave the good life! Resources Joggins Fossil Centre, 100 Main St, Joggins NS Canada 888-932-9766 • www.jogginsfossilcliffs.net Train Station Inn, 21 Station Rd, Tatamagouche NS Canada N 045º 42.534 W 063º 17.017 888-RAILBED • www.trainstation.ca Fort Beausejour National Historic Site 111 Fort Beausejour Rd, Aulac NB Canada 506-364-5080 • www.pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/nb/beausejour Centre D’Interpretation Mines Seleine 56 road Prinicpal, Grosse-Ile, Quebec Canada 418-985-2318 • open Mon-Sat. June-September 2014
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
SHAD USA ZULUPACK DRY BAGS SHAD USA is proud to introduce their new line of Waterproof Dry Bags. Covering practically all Powersports Industry segments to include ATV, UTV, Scooters, On & Off Road Motorcycles and Watercrafts, SHAD Zulupack Dry Bags offer a best in class range of twelve distinct and innovative products that cover virtually every waterproof luggage requirement.
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PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO AND SEE MOTORCYCLE AND SCOOTER RIDE TO WORK DAY • MONDAY, JUNE 16TH You’ll notice a few more motorcycles on the road this year on June sixteenth because it’s the twenty-third annual ‘Ride to Work Day’. World-wide, more than an estimated million riders become two-wheeled commuters to demonstrate riding as a fun and practical form of utility transportation. “Motorcycles and scooters take up less space in parking areas and on roads. And there’s a lower footprint. Riders seek recognition for this form of personal mobility, and government and public awareness of the many benefits,” states Andy Goldfine, an event organizer. Over 100 American cities formally recognize Ride to Work Day by proclamation, and rider’s clubs around the world encourage their members to participate in this annual demonstration. According to the Ride to Work non-profit organization, for hundreds of thousands of US workers, riding is a socially beneficial form of transportation which provides a broad range of other public benefits. According to the United States Census Bureau and the Department of Transportation, over eighty million cars and light trucks are used every day for commuting, and only about 200,000 motorcycles and scooters are a regular part of this mix. On June 16th the practical side of motorcycling and scootering becomes more visible as a higher percentage of America’s 8,000,000 cycles and scooters replace automobiles. www.ridetowork.org
ALTRIDER’S CONSERVE THE RIDE 2014 • JUNE 27-29TH Climb elevations on pristine riding trails, take in the beauty of the lush forests, and enjoy all the bumps along the way. Join adventure motorcycle outfitter AltRider on June 27th -29th, 2014 for one of their signature adventure rides, Conserve the Ride. Conserve the Ride will take place in the spectacular Pennsylvania State Forest, a vast expanse of diverse terrain and stellar riding trails. Designed to highlight the thrill of off-road riding, the trek will utilize GPS-led routes full of lush scenery, gorgeous flora, epic vistas, and plenty of dirt and mud if you want to get a little dirty. The tracks are curated for riders of all skill levels exclusively by members of the nonprofit organization Seven Mountains Conservation Corp (SMCC). Proceeds from the three-day event will benefit SMCC’s efforts to preserve the forest for trail activities. Register for the event at www.altrider.com/ConservetheRide. This year’s Conserve the Ride will also offer an exclusive optional class with Dakar Rally star and skilled instructor Jimmy Lewis. Lewis is one of the only Americans to podium finish at Dakar and a four-time International Six Day Enduro Gold Medalist. “The expertise Jimmy brings to our events is bar-none,” Jeremy Lebreton, AltRider President says. “He lives and teaches his class in Nevada, so this is an excellent opportunity for guys on the east coast to experience everything he
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has to offer.” Lewis is offering his off-road training class at a deep discount from his normal school rates (www.jimmylewisoffroad.com) in Nevada. The $239 registration for Conserve the Ride includes two nights of camping, five catered meals including a special pig roast, adult beverages, an endurocross race on a custom built track with professional racers and compelling presentations from travel bloggers and Jimmy Lewis. In addition, there will be plenty of prize giveaways from sponsors Icon, Akrapovic, Rox Risers, Motorcycle-USA, BMW of Manhattan and Kissell Motorsports. To see what’s in store for the ride, check out the video from Conserve the Ride 2012 @ www.altrider.com/event
ROCK, RIBS AND RIDGES - 2 DAYS OF GREAT MUSIC AND MOUTHWATERING BBQ • JUNE 28-29TH FREE PARKING FOR FIRST 100 ARRIVING BY MOTORCYCLE COURTESY OF RIDER INSURANCE The music and the smokers will both be cooking as the summer concert and barbecue season heat up as the 5th annual Rock, Ribs & Ridges festival moves to its new home at The Sussex County Fairgrounds in Augusta, NJ on June 28-29, 2014. Presented by Franklin Sussex Auto Mall, Rock, Ribs & Ridges is an annual, two-day celebration of great music from legendary artists and mouthwatering barbecue served up by award-winning regional chefs. “We’re very excited to announce new artists and a new venue for our fifth annual festival,” said Executive Producer Howard Freeman of Promo1. “We’ve grown to a new location and the fairgrounds with its 145 acres of beautiful farmland allow us to open up an exciting new layout with amenities that music and food lovers will really appreciate. We have expansive space for new VIP seating and parking options and we will be able to offer on-site camping and RV options, too, as we present our biggest festival ever.” George Thorogood & The Destroyers head the lineup of nine artists performing over the weekend. Known as the “World’s Greatest Bar Band,” their immortal hit “Bad to the Bone,” has been featured in everything from the James Cameron movie “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” to a Wrangler jeans commercial. Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Artimus Pyle of Lynyrd Skynyrd returns after first playing the festival in 2012. Other headliners include Grand Funk Railroad, the Outlaws, New Riders of the Purple Sage and Leslie West of Mountain. Also performing are The Pfeiffer Twins, Citizens Band Radio and The Farmer Phil Band. Festival-goers will be equally thrilled by the delicious comfort food served up by top chefs, who will also compete for thousands of dollars in prize money in a juried rib cook-off and the coveted titles of “Best Ribs,” “Best Sauce,” and “Weis Markets People’s Choice.” Barbecue teams include 2013 Best Ribs champions Chumley’s BBQ & Catering Company of Florida, NY; 2013 “Best Sauce” and “People’s Choice” winner Texas Smoke BBQ of Jefferson Township, NJ; Three Men & a Baby Back of Bergen County, NJ, the 2012 Jack Daniels Invitational World Grilling Champions and the first “Best Ribs” winners at Rock, Ribs & Ridges in 2010; and the award-winning Pigtails Barbecue Company of West Salem, Ohio. Tickets ($40-75/adults • $15-25/children) are available at any Weis Market in New Jersey or online at www.rockribsandridges.com.
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BOB HARTPENCE AND THE POLAR BEAR MOTORCYCLE TOUR RECEIVES BACKROADS’ LAME AWARD words: Brian Rathjen • images: Bernard Walsh At this year’s Polar Bear Stop in Easton, Pennsylvania we gave our annual Lifetime Achievement in Motorcycling Excellence to Bob Hartpence, the Chairman of the weekly motorcycle runs held during the winter each month. For 36 years the New Jersey based runs have brought riders out of their winter slumber each week to various destinations around the state and beyond. Rides now end up north to the heart of the Catskills and south into Delaware. In our travels around the nation we have often been asked about these AMA-sanctioned rides; as they are unique in the country and highly successful. Considering how many riders manage to get out on their machines during the winter months, solely because of the Polar Bear Motorcycle Tour, and the incredible work of Bob Hartpence, the “Flight Leaders” and all the other volunteers we felt that they truly deserved Backroads only award this time around. Congratulations to Bob and all involved with the annual Polar Bear Runs and thank you for all you do. The Backroads Lifetime Achievement in Motorcycling Excellence, also known as the LAME Award, is giving semiinfrequently to a person or groups that have shown to promote our sport of motorcycling and have encourage others to ride and enjoy the open road on two wheels in a safe, fun and consistent manner.
AEROSTICH ROLLS INTO THE NEW JERSEY/ NEW YORK REGION For the eighth time the famed RiderWearHouse has done a “Pop-Up Store” far from their Duluth, Minnesota home. For those of you who do not know of Andy Goldfine - and his ground breaking Aerostich riding suits - he and his company have been one of the best sources to find extraordinary motorcycle jackets, suits, helmets, boots, gloves, tools, bags, and other accessories from around the planet. And, the great state of Minnesota, oh sure, you betcha. But, until recently, unless you were to ride to Duluth and their factory headquarters, you had to order from their ample catalog. Sometimes catalog ordering can take a few times to get correct. Suits need to be sized correctly to be righteously comfortable and, in truth, quality needs to be seen and felt to be truly understood. With the advent of their Pop-Up Stores RiderWearHouse has brought the Mountain to Mohammed, so to speak. (Please – no fatwas) In late April Aerostich opened the doors on their weeklong event in Edgewater, New Jersey, along the Hudson River – easily accessible for those in the Garden State, New York City, Connecticut and U.S. Airway jets. We took a spin down to say hello and see what Aerostich had brought to our home state. They brought plenty – trucking in over 5,000 pounds of gear.
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BACKROADS • JUNE 2014
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Every Aerostich suit and style, a multitude of colors and sizes all were there to be tried on and properly fitted. Gloves, heated vest, liners, fleecewear and other gear, along with a plethora Mr. Happy puppets were there to be seen as well. No, you couldn’t buy a suit and ride away with it, but you could have it custom fit by one of the many RiderWearHouse personnel on hand and get that perfect fit and a good idea of what colors worked best for you, thus avoiding the possibility of the wrong size, ill fit or lack of perfect happiness with your new suit when it arrives at your home (or garage) a short time later. And they threw in free shipping to boot.
Our pal and traveling companion Notso Happy, and his side-kick Pepe, came along - as Hap wanted to see his cousins and was excited to meet Aerostich maven Lynn Wisneski herself! Andy had watched too many Sopranos episodes and didn’t come. We hope you were able to make this event and that Aerostich comes back to our area soon; as many serious riders are faithful wearers of their gear and those who have not seen their products and quality should really take a good look - up close and personal. It might change your riding habits for the better. You see, to the folks at Aerostich motorcycles are part of the “Social Good,” and one of the best things a human can get involved with. Well, we agree and with all the happy Aerostich faithful rolling into Edgewater for this short event we think others do too.
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UPCOM IN G EVENTS CAL ENDAR EVERY MONTH - WEATHER PERMITTING Every Tuesday • The Ear - Spring St, NYC. Come meet some fellow riders and do some benchracing or whatever. 8pm-ish Every Tuesday • Bike Night @ Texas Smoke Barbecue, 400 Route 15 South, Jefferson, NJ. Dine indoors or out with dinner specials. Meet and kick some tires while enjoying some terrific barbeque • www.TexasSmokeBBQ.com • 862-209-4078 3rd Tuesday • Two Wheels Tuesdays Harley Davidson Long Branch @ MJ’s Restaurant • 3205 Route 66, Neptune, NJ • 6-9:30pm • Start May 20 through Sept. 16 4th Tuesday • Ladies Only Rides • Harley Davidson Long Branch, 671, Broadway, Long Branch, NJ • Meet at 6pm • Runs through Sept. 732-229-8518 2nd Wednesday • Restore the Shore Dinner Ride • Harley Davidson Long Branch, 671, Broadway, Long Branch, NJ • Meet at 6pm • Runs through Sept. 732-229-8518 4th Wednesday • Jersey Shore Ice Cream Run • Harley Davidson Long Branch, 671, Broadway, Long Branch, NJ • Meet at 6pm • Runs through Sept. 732-229-8518 Every Wednesday • Chelseas Restaurant/Pub, 1051 Rte. 22 East, Lebanon, NJ 6-9pm, weather permitting all summer • www.chelseasrestaurantpub.com Every Thursday • Bike Night at the Chatterbox Drive-In, Rtes. 15/206, Augusta, NJ. Tire kicking, good food and friends • www.chatterboxdrivein.com Every Saturday • Stop by the dealership at 9am for coffee and bagels. Ride departs at 10am. Return to the dealership for FREE food and music. Proper attire MUST be worn! No shorts or sneakers. • Bergen Harley-Davidson, 124 Essex St, Rochelle Park, NJ • 201843-6930 • www.bergenharley.com
JUNE 2014 May 29-June 1 • 42nd BMW RA NATIONAL RALLY. Barber Motorsports Park/Museum, Birmingham, AL. Get ready for a close encounter with every little thing you love about our sport: grand scale riding, the finest motorcycle museum in the USA, good food and drink, grassy and comfortable camping and thousands of your moto brothers and sisters-new and old. As an added bonus, Keith Code’ California Superbike School will be on hand with his fleet of BMW S1000RR superbikes. Participate or watch as students fly around the fabulous undulating track. Your rally fee includes 3 nights camping, admission to the Vintage Museum, entertainment and much more. www.BMWRA.org May 31-June 1 • Rollin Fast Cycles Victory Demo Days. Food, music & specials. 104 Main St, Lebanon, NJ • 908-236-9000 • www.rollinfast.com May 30-June 8 • 12th Annual Warrensburg Bike Rally. Schroon River Rd, Warren County Fairgrounds, Warrensburg, NY. Free parking and admission, vendors and demo rides. 1 • Morton’s BMW Off-road training - exact date and details TBD. Stay informed with our News & Notes e-newsletter or check our website. Morton’s BMW, 5099A Jefferson
What’s Happening Davis Hwy, Frederickburg, VA • 540-891-9844 • www.MortonsBMW.com 1 • Humane Society of Port Jervis & Deerpark Ride & rock for Rescues. Pre register: Riders $15 • Passengers $10 • Party only $10. Day of Event: riders $20 • Passengrs $15 • Party only $15. 10am 202 Rte. 209, Port Jervis, NY. More info www.pjhumane.org 1 • Born to be Wild Nycak Hospital Motorcycle Run to benefit the Maternity Dept. Sign in/Endsite @ Nyack Hospital Parking Lot, corner of 5th/N Midland Aves, Nyack, NY: 911am with breakfast refreshments • 60-mile ride through scenic Rockland County with route sheet/GPS/escorted ride available • Picnic lunch 11:30-2pm with live music by Action entertainment, prizes, raffles 50/50. Prereg: $20/rider;$15 pass • after 5/23: $25/rider;$15/pass;AMA discounted. For question and for full details www.hudsonvalleyharleyriders.com • 845-629-1013 1 • Bergen County Harley Davidson/Fort Lee Art & Music Festival Ride-In Bike Show, Municipal Parking Lot, Fort Lee, NJ. Registration Free by 11am • Trophies by 3:30pm • For more details call Rich @ 201-843-6930 2-7 • Americade • World’s Largest Touring Rally Returns. Lake George NY. For all the details and registration information visit www.americade.com 7 • Bikers for Brooke MC Run/Family Fun Day to benefit the Brooke Healey Foundation. Police escorted run • Sign-in: Our Lady of Peace Church, 111 South St, New Providence, NJ 10-11:30am • Bike Blessing 11:45 • Leaves: Noon • $25/pp; under 10: $10 • Endsite: Mount Carmel Hall, 56 River Rd, Berkeley Heights, NJ 2-6pm • www.bikersforbrooke.com 7 • Cross Country Powersports Open House. 911 Middlesex Ave, Metuchen, NJ • 732635-0094 • www.crosscountrypowersports.com 6-8 • AltRider Adventures Conserve the Ride Weekend. Ride the scenic, lush trails of Pennsylvania. GPS routes (created by the locals in Seven Mountains Conservation Corp.) for all skill levels on scenic off-road trails, 2 nights of camping at Woodward Caves in Central PA, 5 meals including a special pig roast + adult beverages, off-road seminars, live EnduroCross race on a custom built track, prize giveaways from our sponsors. Find out all the details at www.altrider.com • info@altrider.com 13-14 • Rhinebeck Grand National Meet. 8am-5pm. Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6550 Spring Brook Ave, Rhinebeck NY 14 • Bergen County Harley-Davidson Father’s Day Bike Wash to benefit Disabled American Veterans • Noon-3:30 • $5/bike • 124 Essex St, Rochelle Park, NJ • 201-8436930 • www.bergenharley.com 14 • 4th Annual Carney Vetrano Benefit. Sign in: Shore Lanes Bowling Alley, Rte. 35, Neptune, NJ. Poker Run sign in: 10am-Noon. Bowling Noon-5pm. Ride-in Bike Show Sign in 1pm. Poker Run $20-rider/$15 passenger • Car & Bike show $20/entry • Bowling $20. All proceeds beneift the Ronald McDonald Childrens Cancer Camp. Contact Steven Vetrano: svetrano@thebarhamgroup.com
BACKROADS • JUNE 2014 14-22 • 91st Anniversary of the original riding rally- Laconia Bike Week. Weirs Beach, Laconia, NH. www.LaconiaBikeWeek.com • 603-366-2000 16 • RIDE TO WORK • www.RideToWork.org 16-20 • Concours Owners Group 25th Anniversary ‘SilverDammit’ National Rally. Rally Headquarters: Holiday Inn of Johnson City, TN . Tent and RV camping located nearby. registration available online @ concours.org/national/nationalrally2014 19-21 • Mid-Atlantic Women’s M/C Rally. Gettysburg, PA • www.MAWMR.org 22 • 6th Annual Baer’s Poker Run to benefit Multiple Sclerosis • Sign-in 9am-Noon: Baer’s Sports Center, 330 Grandview Ave, Honesdale, PA or Harmony Lodge No. 8, 519 Rte. 206, Andover Twnshp, NJ • $20/pp incl. pin or patch, raffles, 50/50, vendors, live music and ride • www.WRVR.net • 570-253-2000 24 • Liberty Harley-Davidson Blacktop Bike Night. Live music, vendors, food/beverage • 12 W Milton, Rahway, NJ • 732-381-2400 • www.libertyharley.com 28 • Woodstock Harley-Davidson Red, White & Blues Party Car & Bike Show • AACA Mid-Hudson Region trophies. Free BBQ. All makes and models welcome • 949 SR 28, Kingsotn, NY • 845-338-2801 • www.woodstockharley.com 28-29 • Rock, Ribs & Ridges Music and BBQ Festival • Sussex County Fairgrounds, 37 Plains Rd, Augusta, NJ. Presented by Franklin Sussex Auto Mall. 2 days of peace, music, bbq and brew. Adults: $40-75; Children: $15-25 • www.rockribsandridges.com 29 • I Bike for Animals 7th Annual Rally to benefit common sense for animals of Warren County NJ. Sign-in/Endsite: Landslide Saloon, Pattenburg, NJ. 50-mile scenid ride with huge food fest at endsite. Raffles, auction DJ and the school of rock • www.commonsenseforanimals.org • 908-859-3060 29 • 8th Annual Nassau County Fireriders Christmas in June Toy Run to benefit SCO Family Services. Sign-in with breakfast: Applebee’s, 938 S Broadway/Rte. 107, Hicksville, NY @ 9am-Noon • $10 plus unwrapped toy • Endsite with BBQ: Tappen Beach, Sea Cliff, NY 29 • Warriors Run Motorcycle Ride for our Military to benefit Wounded Warriors. Police escorted ride. Start/End: Madison Avenue High School, New Milford, NJ. Sign in: 8-10am; KSU 10:30 sharp. Rider: $25; Passenger: $15; Walk-in: $10. After party food, motorcycle demonstrations, entertainment, vendors • www.warriorsrunnj.com
JULY 2014 2-5 • Wing Ding - Madison, WI • www.GWRRA.org
Page 37 and breakfast, pins, patches, and dozens of prizes and awards are part of the package. *Total participation strictly limited to 400 – Rain or Shine this event is always a sell-out. Further information and money-saving advanced registration forms (highly recommended) are available on-line at www.ramapomc.org 19 • Woodstock Harley-Davidson Rock N Rumble • 949 SR 28, Kingsotn, NY • 845338-2801 • www.woodstockharley.com 20 • Second Generation MA 11th Annual Motorcycle Dice Run to benefit United Hospice of Rockland County. Sign in : Rhodes North Tavern, 40 Orange Tpke, Sloatsburg, NY • 9:30-11am. Riders: $20; passengers: $10; Walk-in: $20 • Scenic country ride, huge barbecue, live music by Love Cats • www.secondgenerationma.org 18-20 • AMA Vintage Motorcycle Rally. Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course - Lexington, OH • www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com
AUGUST 2014 2-3 • Odd Ball Old Dob 10th Annual Bike Show and Ride, Curtiss Museum Classic Motorcycle Festival, hammondsport, NY • 607-569-2160 • www.oddballolddog.net 17 • FW Speer Yamaha Foggy Mountain Reliability Run. Registration: $20. Sign in 8:3010am at dealership. Expert/Novice classes. 7 Main Ave, Passaic, NJ • 973-778-6256 • www.speeryamaha.com
SEPTEMBER 2014 5-7 • Women’s Sportbike Rally VIII - Deals Gap, NC • www.WomensSportbikeRally.com 7 • Lost Wheels MC Poker Run to benefit Montrose VA Hospital, Castle Point Food for Vets, Vassar Hospital Children's Ward, Food Bank of the Hudson Valley. NEW SIGN IN: McDonald's, Route 9, Fishkill, NY (Dutchess Mall) 9-10:30am Registration • Run ends @ 3pm. $25/riders; $15/Passenger; $10 under 15. Endsite: Canopus Lake Beach, Fahestock St Park, 1498 Rte. 301, Carmel, NY. Ride the route and join us for great food, live music, games, vendors, door prizes and %0/50. Cash prize for best poker hand. Trophies for best rep club and bike show People's Choice and Best of Show • www.lostwheels.com • Pat: 845-800-0041 10-13 • Westchester Beemers NY Trio Tour 2014. Sport-touring ‘scavenger hunt’ event. 3 consecutive daily rides begin and end at Hampton Inn, Elkins, WV base location. Daily rides average 8.5 hours covering 350 miles. Limited to 33 riders. $50 incl. Sat. evening closing dinner, rider card and prizes for top three finishers. Discounted lodging arrangements in place at base location (304-630-7500). For full details call or visit 914-3287909 • www.triotour.org
11-13 • New Jersey Motorsports Park hosts AHRMA Vintage Motorcycle Festival. Thunderbolt Raceway, Millville, NJ. Racing and exhibition. www.njmp.com
Sept. 26-28 • Backroads Fall Fiesta • Shippensburg, PA
12-13 • 38th Annual Ramapo 500™ • Sign in and 'day-of' registration 7-9am, Veterans' Memorial Association, 66 Lake Foad East, Congers, NY. This two-day 500-mile tour, designed and orchestrated by the Ramapo Motorcycle Club, will take participants on an original ride through the northeast along back-country roads and routes less-traveled, culminating at a unique camping venue (hotel accommodations will be available). Dinner
16th Backroads Fall Fiesta. Shippen Place Hotel, Shippensburg, PA. Surrounded by some of the most scenic and twistalicious roads in Pennsylvania. We’ll have a group dinner Saturday night (pre-registration IS required for dinner) at the University Grille, at the hotel - $34/pp. Rooms start at $87/night. Call today and get yours. Please ask for Backroads Group when booking. www.shippenplace.com • 717-532-4141
INTRODUCING TUESDAYS BIKE NITE @
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Visit us June 28-29 at Rock, Ribs and Ridges Music and BBQ Festival Sussex County Fairgrounds Augusta, NJ
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JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS
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Riding Upstream on the Colorado River
words and images: Tim Kessel “Eventually, all things merge into one, and a river runs through it.” Norman Maclean, A River Runs Through It I have ridden the banks of a good number of America’s great rivers. There is a magic in tracing the pavement that ribbons along the path that big water has carved. Many regions of North America lay claim to a plethora of major waterways. A look at a good map of notable American rivers reveals exactly what I am talking about. The northwest has its serpentine flows such as the Snake and the Columbia. The Midwest is an amazing arterial drainage laced with magnificent waterways. The east has its share of geographically and historically significant rivers. However, when you look on that same map to the desert southwest, there is but one river that has continentally significant flow and length – the Colorado. As it drains from the
Rocky Mountains of Colorado to the southwest, the Colorado River produces some pretty significant magic. It is the Colorado, after all, that continues to carve the wondrous Grand Canyon. A motorcyclist can get a great view of the Colorado River in that Grand Canyon – from a distance. However, to truly ride a significant portion of the Colorado River, one has to look further to the southwest. This is where the powerful Colorado defines the jagged vertical border between Nevada, Arizona and California on its way toward Mexico. A river flows one way, motorcycles are more flexible. My ride of choice on the Colorado is upstream – for no particular reason. A word to the wise, this is not a midsummer ride. Towns on the Colorado River often boast the nation’s highest temperatures in the dog days. However, there is a flipside to this thermal coin. When most other major rivers in the nation are iced up and frigid, the Colorado is a winter rider’s delight. Yes, my friends; winter is a time to pack your saddle bags and head southwest.
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BACKROADS • JUNE 2014
Page 39 desert. Riding over the liquid ribbon, I am welcomed into California. From this point on, my route will never deviate more than a few miles from the river. After a short ride west into California, I head north on what is still US95 - yes, this highway takes a strange and circuitous path up the Colorado River. For miles on this northern journey up the Colorado, the road and the river repeatedly converge and separate like double-Dutch jump ropes. Whereas the early part of the ride had the contrast of desert and rugged mountain ranges, this portion has a triple contrast. Yes, the desert and mountains are still in evidence, but there is the added element of the green ribbon that skirts the river. It is a kind of trifecta of visual delights. I finally part ways with US95 when I meet up with the California 62, which takes me east back toward the river and Arizona. After reentering Arizona over the Colorado, I meet up with another highway 95. This time AZ95 takes me north on the river. This stretch is possibly the most visually stunning on the ride. From Parker, AZ to the north, the trek is winding and exhilarating. The road is skirted to the west by the Colorado and rock spires accent the view on both sides of the river. Speedboats and Jetskis slice the cold, blue water of the Colorado, and resorts punctuate the river at regular intervals. However the big punctuation of this part of the ride is the Parker Dam, which transforms the Colorado River into Lake Havasu. At this juncture, my ride is on the banks
The Ride
An upstream ride on the Colorado has a natural starting point of Yuma, AZ. The “snowbird” Mecca of Yuma is only a fistful of miles from the Mexican border and resides on the southernmost stretch of the Colorado that is still in the US. A look at my tank bag map shows that there is not a route to the immediate north of Yuma that will keep me on the banks of the Colorado. The Arizona route deviates miles from the river and so does the California option. However, it is clear that while the CA route reconnects with the flow a bit sooner, the AZ route will get me there faster. I opt for the Arizona path. While not on the river, US95 is a strikingly beautiful ride in a barren kind of way. It skirts the western portion of the Kofa wildlife refuge for most of its path from Yuma to Quartzsite, AZ. This mostly straight road is a quick and scenic path back to the Colorado. The visual contrast between the cacti-spotted desert and the purple-hued stone mountains in the distance makes up for the lack of curves on this stretch. At Quartzsite, there is a decision to make. I can opt for another fast route north that is still off of the river, or I can head due west toward the river which will take me over the Colorado and into California. This time, I opt for the slower more scenic route. While this ride to the west is on Interstate 10, it is still also the 95. After a few miles on this path, I finally reenter the Colorado River Valley at the river town of Ehrenberg. The deep blue waters of the Colorado are a beautiful contrast to the muted hues of the
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of the lake rather than the river. I miss the “flow”, but the growing expanse of the water brings its own beauty. At the southern tip of the lake, I ride upon another vision that seems out of character for the desert southwest – a riparian wetlands area. The vast reed-filled expanse of the waterway is like nothing else along the Colorado River. It is visually similar to the wetlands in the Midwest. After a ride of panoramic straights and rock-skirted sweepers, I drop into
one of Arizona’s most interesting and incongruous cities. Lake Havasu City is a vision of contrasts. It sits on the expansive desert lake and has at its core, The London Bridge. Yes, that’s right. In the middle of the southwestern desert rests the impressive relic of British history. The stone bridge that once spanned the River Thames from the mid1800s was purchased and transported to Arizona in 1967 and now towers over a portion of Lake Havasu. The arcing bridge supports dip into the blue-green waters creating a vision reminiscent of some ancient European waterway. However, a look to the horizon brings my reality back to the American Southwest. My stay in Lake Havasu City is made even more enjoyable by a major triathlon that has swimmers, runners and bikers competing in the shadow of that impressive bridge. After another beautiful ride north, the AZ90 takes a western turn toward the third state on this ride upstream. Entering Nevada, I cross what has again become a river and take a quick stop at Park Moabi. This area is a regional park that has been developed into a rather eclectic and entertaining mix of tropical themes. From here I do a short stint on Interstate 40, before embarking on the last stretch of road that skirts the Colorado. The Needles Highway parallels the river all the way to Laughlin, NV. This ride has rugged grey mountain views to the west and the river valley to the east for its full length. Laughlin is a small, vibrant gambling town on the banks of the Colorado. It is a miniature version of Las Vegas that most find more welcoming and less hectic than its much bigger brother. I rent a room in one of the towering
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BACKROADS • JUNE 2014 casinos for about $20 and thoroughly enjoy my evening walking the main street and people-watching. However, the highlight of the Laughlin stay is sitting on the riverbank and watching the neon hues the casinos cast on the Colorado. It is a great time to “reflect” on where the waters will flow – under the London Bridge, through a reed-filled wetlands, in the shadows of red canyons near Parker, and ultimately into Mexico.
Laughlin could logically be the end of a Colorado River ride since just above the town, the Colorado becomes Lake Mohave. However, there is one more stretch that affords me a view back to the river valley. Crossing back into Arizona, I make the winding climb toward Kingman. The view back toward the Colorado is another visual delight. The river is visible at several vistas through the rugged stone mountains. Again, this is a perfect ride for late fall, winter, or early spring. A ride upstream on the Colorado includes a smorgasbord of ecosystems and is dotted with interesting towns. It is well worth a spot on your riding calendar.
ride Length: 300 miles • route map: http://mapq.st/1cwxlzl
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EVENT RECAP
21ST GATHERING OF THE NORTONS – WASHINGTON CROSSING HISTORIC PARK, PA On a crisp Sunday morning, in late April, the break of day peacefulness along the Delaware River in Bucks County was occasionally disturbed by the revelry of a most pleasant tone. The sound of dozens of motorcycles – solo, and in groups, purringly making their way along the river and to the historic park at Washington Crossing. They came in all types, sizes and ages – with a great deal of the British Marque Norton found in their numbers. A true sign of spring is when the Delaware Valley Norton Riders hold their annual Gathering of the Nortons in this historic park. Here, hundreds of years ago, the Continental Army was looking to get rid of the British and Hessians – this day they were welcome back in the forms of classic motorcycles of British tenure and others as well.
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BACKROADS • JUNE 2014
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Although called a gathering of Nortons there were wonderful examples of many machines to be seen. All were welcome. The brilliant day brought in hundreds of machines and riders and you would easily need a couple of hours to really take in the entire gathering. Although Backroads had covered this event in the past this was the first time we had made the ride down to the park and we have to tell you – if you love great old bikes, in all sorts of conditions and styles – this is the event for you. Being a free ride–in event you could not beat the price and the feeling that was running through the large crowds, especially after this past winter, was one of admiration, wonder stirred in with the occasional “Oh my God” gawking. They say a picture is worth a thousand words so we’ll give that a try and make a Sunday free for late April next year for the 22nd Gathering of the Nortons. for up to 60 months
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Throws You a Cu e f i L rve… en h W
Lean In and Turn
Kirk Landmesser My brother Eric and I have been riding together since 1980. We both started with old /5 BMWs we purchased from two guys in the military. We were not lured by the temptation of the Japanese brands that were quicker, cheaper, and looked fast parked in a driveway. Eric and I wanted to own “the best touring bike” made and did not realize that 10 year old, neglected BMWs were not as bullet proof as new Hondas or Yamahas. Our adventure started a “bit left of center”, and over 30 years later we have experienced many great bikes and rides together. My brother and I were also into antique cars. I do not mean we owned muscle cars which in the early 80’s were still basically used cars, no we were into cars most people thought belonged in a museum. Eric had a 1915 Model T Ford roadster, and I had a 1930 Packard coupe. If you have not put two (2 old /5 BMWs instead of new Japanese brands) and two (two antique cars over 50 years old and primitive) together you can see that sidecars were dif-
ferent enough for us to be alluring. Eric almost bought an old BMW /2 with a Steib sidecar in the mid 80’s for less than $2,500, but he needed a bit of financial assistance from our father. Dad was not in the mood to subsidize the purchase, so sidecars were relegated to another time. It was my turn in 1995 to try entry into a sidecar. I saw a Hannigan at Americade and came home trying to convince my wife that our 3 year old son would love riding with his father strapped into his child seat in the rig beside me. She told me no way was our son riding in a sidecar! I tried to use the seatbelt-child seat argument but I know when to quit. Fast forward over 30 years and my brother is diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer. I will not go into the gory details but after about a year of chemotherapy and surgery my brother decided he had lost his confidence for two wheels. The decision to sell his BMW was not easy for him. I supported his decision, but I was upset that my brother’s life was being changed for
BACKROADS • JUNE 2014 him. Eric was also feeling like he was letting me down which, for me, was a heart breaker. He was still not “out of the woods” medically, so emotions were running high. I told my brother if he changed his mind in the future he could always buy another bike, so not to worry. It was also a hard change for me, since 90% of my riding has been with my brother. We have ridden most of the New England states, Novia Scotia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Upstate New York. We anticipate each other’s moves on the road, and the thought of riding with someone else almost feels like abandoning a buddy for someone new. OK, here is where we ‘leaned in and turned!’ Eric put his bike up for consignment with the dealer where we have purchased all our new BMWs. They usually do not take bikes on consignment, but we have been customers since their first year in 1998 and they decided to assist Eric in this tough decision. Well, a few months later Eric sees a small, local dealer selling new Urals and mentions for me to check it out. I found my way to the Ural dealer in less than a week. I was hooked! The Ural was bright blue with a large white stripe (think Shelby Cobra meets Frankenstein). It looked like it could go anywhere, and it had the old /5 BMW look. I wanted to demo the Ural but the dealer was too small to let a bike go on the road for a demo. We found another dealer 25 miles from home and they had a demo, plus 2 rigs in stock. Eric and I arranged on Black Friday to finally drive a sidecar! The childhood excitement of the holiday season was back, maybe there would be a sidecar in the garage before New Years. We took out a chamo model Ural and I deferred to my older brother to be the first one to drive it. I jumped
Page 45 into the chair and we did a few laps around the strip mall where the dealer was located. We then jumped out onto the highway for about a 5 mile ride. It was a weird feeling to be riding in the chair but it only took about a mile for me to settle into it and start to laugh. We were riding a sidecar and it only took 33 years! Eric quickly commented that it was surely not a modern BMW and we would be returning to the performance of our old /5’s. Well, was it guilt on Eric’s part for not leaving me to ride alone, or my guilt in wanting to keep him distracted from constant thoughts of cancer? I think it is more about two guys who love to ride, and more importantly want to ride together. We decided the same day as the demo ride to take the plunge and buy sidecars. We wanted to trade our BMWs (1998 Cruiser and 2004 RT) but the deal was so bad we just could not agree to the terms. The dealership wanted to give us wholesale for our pampered BMWs and pay only $400 off two Urals which would be purchased the last month of the year, end of model year, and major upgrades were coming in 2014 (fuel injection and triple disc brakes). We could not believe they did not want to move two 2013 Urals in December. Soon keeping our BMWs was about to become fate. The sidecar bug had bitten hard and I was cruising the web. I showed Eric numerous web sites on sidecars. One site had a picture of a BMW Cruiser with a color matched S500 Steib. The S500 Steib is the sidecar that looks like a giant bullet. The look is straight out of the 1930’s. Eric was hooked. He decided he wanted to put a Steib on his Cruiser. Eric threw down the gauntlet and said if he was going to buy a sidecar would I buy a sidecar for my RT. How can I turn down my riding partner, he was back in the hobby!
F.W. SPEER YAMAHA 7 Main Ave • Passaic, NJ • 973-778-6256 • www.SpeerYamaha.com Tri-State Metro Area’s Oldest Yamaha Dealer + Last of the Mom and Pop Shops.
41st Foggy Mountain Reliability Run • Aug. 17 @ 9am A YAMAHA CONSUMER EVENT - CALL FOR DETAILS
THE MALLTERNATIVE
Page 46 It was easy for me to select a Hannigan for my RT BMW. Eric and I had seen Hannigan products since we joined the BMW Owners of America in 1980. Hannigan attended a BMW Owners National Rally years ago where Eric and I spoke to the founder for about 45 minutes. His sidecars are made for BMW’s and incorporate a lot of technology. I liked the fact they are relatively light, have a disc brake, and even have Electronic Camber Control too. I called Hannigan directly and asked numerous questions. I also called numerous times before finalizing my decision. Buying a sidecar rig for your bike is not as easy as going into a dealer and buying a new bike. There are many different models of various sizes with many different features. I have to admit the price moves quickly, but in for a penny in for a pound. By the time I stopped saying yes to all the features the price was what I would have spent to buy a new Ural with trading my BMW. I had made the right decision because I still have my anti lock disc brakes, fuel injection, heated grips, electric windshield, bags, power outlets and my BMW! Eric’s decision to buy a Steib sidecar reminds me of the time I sent my 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass convertible to a restoration shop. The unknowing owner may think the discussion to “redo the motor” is straight forward, but by the time every component is rebuilt and the engine compartment is detailed the price has doubled! There is one dealer on the East Coast that imports Steibs into the US from Germany. We learned a lesson in patience with
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS this process. Even though the dealer has offered sidecar installations for over 20 years it is a specialty that seems to get squeezed in between their normal process of selling new bikes and doing routine maintenance. The Steib is all metal and the body is in 8 major sections held together by aluminum. This sidecar company has made these sidecars in a similar way for over 75 years. The dealer sends the Steibs to a specialty painter who takes them completely apart, paints them, and then reassembles. The frame is then color matched to the frame of the bike. Eric did not have many option decisions, but he did order the red interior because that was the color of the rig he almost bought in 1985. Yes, the cost was adding up like an antique car restoration. I will not even get into the process of shipping the bikes, and the frustration of not being able to walk into the shop to check on progress. My brother and I are now so anxious for spring to arrive. We have not ridden in our 50’s as much as we did in our 20’s and 30’s but 2014 is a new beginning. We have looked for a regional training course but it seems Virginia is as close as it gets to NJ. Eric purchased Driving A Sidecar Outfit by David L. Hough, so we can jumpstart our knowledge. Eric and I will be 33 year veterans, who are really sidecar rookies! We will be the “sidecar brothers”! If you see two guys on BMWs with sidecars, wave, we would love to spread the gospel of 3 wheels to anyone who might want to experience a different riding lifestyle.
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MAKES A GREAT FATHER’S DAY GIFT
BACKROADS • JUNE 2014
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Welcome to the Jungle - The Art of Learning to Ride Skillfully A column dedicated to your riding survival
The Eyes Have It
On winding country backroads get used to looking as far as you can. Sure everyone glances around and sees different things closer to the motorcycle but don’t fixate on them. Keep your eyes down the road and that is where you will end up. As I said, some riders are really good at this, others not so much. I have had experiences with riders that just have a hard time coaching themselves into this life-saving habit, especially at slower speeds. How many riders do you see coming to a stop or making a tight u-turn staring at the front wheel? I would say a good number. When this happens it is okay to acknowledge this but then you need to practice where your eyes are looking in order for it to become easier and more natural. As it has been proven time and again your motorcycle goes where you look. It is a reality of motorcycle riding and one we must all be aware of. Anyway you look at it the eyes have it!
One common thread that just about every motorcycle instructor will repeat over and over is “Look where you want to go!” This basic mantra is a constant, if off times repeated, whether it be an MSF Basic Rider Course or more intensive instruction such as CLASS or other track-based instruction. This one truth rings in all motorcycle, bicycle and even car driving. It is not so hard to understand. Professionals call it “Target Fixation.” And, it is something that we, as riders, must consciously work on improving, if not perfecting. As I stated professionals do this instinctively, some of us need to remind ourselves or be reminded by others. Years back I was attending a Honda CBR1000RR intro at the big track in Las Vegas. This, coincidentally, was the home of Freddie Spenser’s school back in those days. Honda had contracted Freddie to give all the attending moto-journalists an abbreviated version of his school – hitting on all the basics and high points with classroom time and track time combined nicely. One of the major tire manufacturers was also in attendance and our 1000RR was shod in the morning with their best high-performance street tires and then in the afternoon with pure track rubber. In between sessions our tires were wrapped in warmers to keep their temperature and grip up. Although you do feel a bit special when coddled so, the truth was deep inside I wondered just what the heck Backroads – a touring magazine - was doing with the new hot set-up from Honda on a track in the desert surrounded by far more talented and faster riders. I did my best not to get into a losing argument with speed and gravity; doing my best to not get run over or ruin anyone’s line. Instead I listened to Freddie’s instruction and did my best to improve with each lap. After lunch and now on ‘track tires,’ something I had never experienced before, I was amazed at how tight the machine now felt and how well these tires gripped and handled. The feedback was incredible and my lap times dropped. Just when I thought I really was moving I was blasted by World Champion Freddie Spenser who, while dragging his knee through the left hander, turned to look at The Vulcan® 1700 Vaquero® has an impressive presence that lets everyone know this big, stylish V-twin me – holding onto the bike with just one hand, while bagger excels on the open road. Engineered and built for long-term dependability the Vaquero also brings dragging said knee –gave me the sign to look further a healthy dose of practicality in addition to its dominating presence. Its roomy cockpit and long list of down the track. standard features like electronic cruise control and a high output audio system make this much more Later he took me to the side and stated firmly that than just a powerful cruiser, they give the Vaquero the impressive ability to handle a night on the town even though I thought I was looking ahead, at that speed or a week on the road with an equal measure of grace and style! I REALLY had to look further ahead. My laps after this talking to got a bit better and, more importantly, more consistent. YCLE ENTER Look where you want and need to go and the bike will follow. Experience the full line of Kawasaki motorcycles, On the streets if you round a corner and you spot a sales and service we have to offer. large pothole, choose a line around it and look to the far point in that line. 115 Route 23N • Hamburg NJ If you stare at the pothole you will probably ride right into it. The same goes for simply making a u-turn on a tight lane. Get that head and eyes turned and look into the direction you need to go. If you falter and look at the curb chances are you will run right into it and topple over.
TOWN & COUNTRY C
C
• 973-875-2111 www.townandcountrycyclecenter.com
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHTS SCHUBERTH INTRODUCES NEW MINERAL WHITE FINISH FOR THE C3PRO AND C3PRO WOMEN FLIP-UP HELMETS The C3Pro, and its fit-for-women counterpart the C3 Pro Women, are the result of over 60 years’ experience in developing the world’s most advanced helmets, combining improved comfort and fit, optimized aerodynamics and ventilation, and a compact construction making them quietest flip-up helmets available. Together the two helmets make a perfect two-up compliment for any motorcycle, especially the mineral white K 1600 GTL Exclusive BMW www.schuberthnorthamerica.com
CASEBUDI IPAD CHARGER TRAVEL CASE Some of you might be wondering why we feature non-motorcycle specific products like this CaseBudi? Truth is we travel a lot and these days there are always a small cadre’ of wires, adapters and plugs coming along for the ride. Sometimes we will just stuff them into a small fanny pack which has found use as a travel companion but, invariably, these wires and cables ‘Christmas tree light’ and become a tangled mess to rival the Gordian Knot. Well, at least for the iPad this has become a bit simpler. The CaseBudi iPad Charger Travel Case has a tough black ballistic nylon exterior and the case holds and protects your iPad charger in style. It is designed specifically for the iPad charger and has a lanyard clip so you can lock it onto your luggage or iPad case. The CaseBudi people make a number of cases for different applications and for the $14.99 that this case cost we thought it a worthy travel investment • www.casebudi.com
TWISTED THROTTLE’S NEW SEAT-RACK FROM SW-MOTECH The New SW-MOTECH Seat-Rack is a luggage carrier that replaces the original passenger seat. The Seat-Rack is secured using the bike’s seat lock mechanism and can be removed using the ignition key. No modification to the bike is necessary, installs in moments. The rugged 4mm black powder-coated aluminium Seat-Rack features various slots for securing gear and luggage using standard straps. Special rubber seals ensure a perfect fit and
FALL FIESTA 2014
September 25-28 Motorcycles, Travel & Adventure
A SHAMOKIN’ TIME IN SOUTHCENTRAL PA Join us for our 16th Backroads Fall Fiesta We’ll have our base camp at the historic Shippen Place Hotel in Shippensburg, PA Surrounded by some of the most scenic and twistalicious roads in Pennsylvania You can explore the beautiful Michaux State Forest, take a spin to Mr. Ed’s Elephant Museum or check out Centralia, the town on fire. We’ll have a group dinner Saturday night at the University Grille, at the hotel.
Rooms start at $87.20/night Call today and get yours. Please ask for Backroads Group when booking.
www.shippenplace.com • 717-532-4141
BACKROADS • JUNE 2014
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protects against sand, mud and water. The Seat-Rack is available for select motorcycle models, including BMW R1200GS LC, KTM 690 Duke 4, and KTM 1190 Adventure, from $189.99. More applications are in development. • www.twistedthrottle.com
SW-MOTECH HAWK LED LIGHTS FROM TWISTED THROTTLE SW-MOTECH has launched a second generation of their popular HAWK Fog Lights, using the latest LED technology for optimum visibility, long life, and low maintenance.
The minimal draw of the 4-inch, 10-watt LED lamps project a broad beam of light to improve visibility in foggy conditions and carry the ECE test mark. They are housed in a black powder-coated aluminium body for durability and include a wiring harness with a waterproof switch. Installation is easy and requires no special tools.The SW-MOTECH Hawk LED fog lights retail for $399.99 per pair and are available through Twisted Throttle and its network of dealers throughout North America. While each light includes a U-shaped mounting bracket, complete mounting solutions are sold separately. For bike-specific and universal mounting solutions, visit the Twisted website • www.twistedthrottle.com
HELIBARS® FIRST-EVER ADJUSTABLE HANDLEBARS FOR HONDA GOLD WING AND F6B MOTORCYCLES These groundbreaking, Luxury Sport Touring bars pivot wrist angle positions over a 36-degree range, are up to 2-1/2 inches taller than stock, have 7 inches of forward/backward movement and are up to 4 inches closer to riders, striking the perfect balance between greatly enhanced comfort and more nimble handling. In development for six years, the LST comfort kit is much more than a pair of lowtech, bar-rising plates. It addresses every drawback of the stock, fixed-position bars on Honda GL1800 Gold Wings made from 2001 to 2014 and the radical FB6. To achieve perfect ergonomics for bodies of all sizes, they enable fine-tuning adjustment one dimension at a time—using a simple Allen-head wrench—until the ideal setup found.
Are you ready for the most comfortable motorcycle saddle? Heli’s Luxury Sport Touring Horizon handlebars’ multi-axis pivots fix the bikes’ steeply angled, severely rearward and awkward, low wrist angles on bars that are too close to riders. Their 36 degrees of fore/aft pain relief and ability to move away or closer to riders keep the bars ends from landing in their laps and even hitting their thighs when turning left or right at full lock, transforming the 800-pound ma-
A saddle that fits properly eliminates pressure points that reduce blood flow. It takes a solid understanding of human anatomy and extensive motorcycle experience to make a truly fine motorcycle saddle. Let Rick’s medical expertise as a critical care nurse and extensive riding experience combine to create a truly great saddle hand-made just for you. Prices start at $269.
www.RickMayerCycle.com
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS
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Route 739 • Dingmans Falls, PA • 570.828.1920
chines’ low-speed, parking-lot maneuvering. Independent test riders say these HeliBars make the bikes feel 300 pounds lighter. The wrist rotation, additional height and reach movement help riders support their weight with a less cramped, more natural seating positions that aid in minimizing upper-body fatigue, muscle ache and lower back pain. The system’s high-strength, steel handlebars are connected with a solid, aluminum crossbar that dramatically reduces handlebar flex and offers more front-end feedback. It also doubles as a convenient mounting point for electronic accessories. Heli’s exclusive HeliMount GPS adapter is optional. Bolting directly to the bikes’ top triple clamp, the LSTs use original cables, hydraulics and wire loom, requiring no permanent modifications. The turnkey kit includes all components needed for installation using common tools in about three hours with HeliBars’ comprehensive instructions. Made in the USA, the steel handlebars are pre-drilled to mate with stock switch housings and their multi-axis pivots are CNC machined from blocks of aluminum billet on state-of-the-art machines. For strength and security, the assemblies are attached to top triple clamps with aircraft-quality, investment-cast, T6 aluminum risers using the original hardware. They’re finished with a durable, UV-resistant black powdercoat. Like all HeliBars products, this Luxury Sport Touring kit is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee via Heli’s 30-day return policy, and come with a one-year warranty. Heli’s unique, multi-axis replacement motorcycle handlebar kits are also available for BMW K1600s, Honda ST1100/1300s and all Kawasaki Concours models, as well as most Harleys and metric cruisers The undisputed leader in replacement handlebars and riser systems for more than 25 years, Heli Modified, Inc. has enabled motorcyclists to ride millions of miles in greater comfort for longer durations. The company designs and manufactures more than 70 products that improve the ergonomics of Japanese, European and American touring bikes, sport tourers, sportbikes, and cruisers without changing their overall looks. Please visit HeliBars.com for more information about Heli’s innovative product line or call 800-859-4642 or visit www.heliBars.com
BACKROADS gladly accepts press releases. Please send text and images to editor@backroadsusa.com
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BACKROADS • JUNE 2014
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Rip & Ride® • INDIAN ROCK INN 2206 RIVER ROAD / ROUTE 32, UPPER BLACK EDDY, PA 18972 610- 982-9600 • INDIANROCKINN .COM GPS: WWW.SENDSPACE.COM/PRO/DL/EN7U7K
BEAR MOUNTAIN BRIDGE CIRCLE PALISADE PARKWAY SOUTH TO 7 LAKES DRIVE BEAR RIGHT AT CIRCLE ARDEN VALLEY ROAD LEFT AT RTE. 17 BEAR RIGHT RTE. 17A LEFT AT CASCADE RD. LEFT AT BRADY RD. RIGHT AT BLACK ROCK RD. RIGHT AT CR 21 LEFT AT RTE. 94 RIGHT AT RYERSON RD. RIGHT AT BLOOMS CORNERS RD. LEFT AT DREW RD. LEFT AT CR515 BEAR RIGHT RTE. 94 CROSS RTE. 23 RIGHT AT BEAVER RUN RD. RIGHT AT ICE PLANT RD. CROSS RTE. 15 STRAIGHT AT MUD CUT RD. RIGHT AT DECKER RD. CROSS RTE. 206 STRAIGHT AT PRICE RD. LEFT AT AUGUSTA RD. LEFT AT CR 519 RIGHT AT CR 626 THROUGH DOUBLE BRIDGES LEFT AT T CR 6262 LEFT AT CR 521 TO BLAIRSTOWN LEFT AT RTE. 94 RIGHT AT CR 521 TO HOPE STRAIGHT AT CR 519 SOUTH CROSS RTE. 46 RIGHT AT CR 620 TO BELVIDERE LEFT AT WATER ST. CROSS BRIDGE TO PA STRAIGHT AT MARTINS CREEK HIGHWAY BEAR LEFT AT RTE. 611 LEFT TO RTE. 611 THROUGH EASTON BEAR LEFT ON RIVER ROAD RTE. 32 TO HOTEL ON RIGHT
RiSiNg WOLF gARAgE NYC EXCLUSIVE MOTORCYCLE PARKING FACILITY We p r o v i d e a f r i e n d l y, c l e a n a n d s e c u r e environment for the motorcycle enthusiast Service Area Personal Storage Air Compressor Battery Charging
Monthly Parking Long & Short Term 24 Hour Access Video Surveillance
By Appointment Only East Village NYC Ph: 212 475 5858 • Fx: 212 505 5205
risingwolfgarage@aol.com
www.risingwolfgarage.com
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS
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Rip & Ride® • THE HUMMINGBIRD HOUSE 310 ROUTE 94 SOUTH , NEWTON , NJ 07860 973-300-0333 • WWW.HUMMINGBIRDHOUSENJ .COM (APPROX. 75 MILES) • GPS: WWW.SENDSPACE.COM/PRO/DL/N4VTZJ
START AT TRAFFIC CIRCLE FOR 7 LAKES DRIVE AND CR 106 CONTINUE ON CR 106 WEST STRAIGHT AT RTE. 17A RIGHT AT BENJAMIN MEADOW RD. LEFT AT CR 45 RIGHT AT CR 13 LEFT AT RTE. 94 RIGHT AT CR 25 RIGHT AT CR 6 LEFT AT CR 42 / 37 LEFT CR 12 RIGHT AT CR 93 LEFT AT RTE. 284 LEFT IN UNIONVILLE OVER RR BEAR LEFT AT CR 36 INTO NJ CR 651 • WATCH 15 MPH SIGNS! RIGHT AT GORGE RD. RIGHT AT RTE. 23 N LEFT AT CR 519 (SPACE FARM SIGN) RIGHT AT CR 636 LEFT AT RTE. 206 S RIGHT AT CR 521 STAY ON CR 521 FOR A WHILE LEFT AT FRANK CHANDLER ROAD (SOUTH OF CR 626) LEFT AT STOP CR 622 RIGHT AT ANDERSON HILL RD AT T MAKE LEFT AT RTE. 94 HUMMINGBIRD HOUSE ON LEFT
www.beemerboneyard.com USED OILHEAD & K-BIKE PARTS Hundreds of used parts at 50% off new cost or less Order online 24/7 ~ M/C, Visa, Discover or PayPal 100% money-back guarantee ~ parts ship in 24 hours
N EW MAINTENANCE PART ~ BELOW RETAIL No Backorders ~ We Stock What We Sell We now carry German Liqui-Moly Engine & Gear Oil for BMWs
973-775-3495 • M-F 12pm~5pm • inquires@beemerboneyard.com
August 15, 16 & 17 3 Days of Music, Food, Vendors, Beer, Wine and Lots of Fun!
Under the Big Top Tent Highlights for this year include the return of the Grand Slambovians • Friday, Aug. 15 Check website for full schedule and tickets
Lions Club Pavillion 89 US 46, Columbia, NJ 908.852.4545
www.WNTIstage.org info@wntistage.org
Rip & Ride® • PROHIBITION DISTILLERY 10 UNION ST, ROSCOE, NY 607-498-4511 • WWW.PROHIBITIONDISTILLERY.COM TASTING ROOM AND TOUR HOURS: NOON – 6PM MONDAY THRU SUNDAY DOWNLOAD GPS ROUTE: WWW.SENDSPACE.COM/PRO/DL/98HSZO
START: ELK-BROX MEMORIAL PARK, PORT JERVIS, NY NORTH ON RTE 97 RIGHT ON RTE 42 LEFT ON OLD PLANK RD LEFT ON STARLIGHT RD LEFT ON ROUTE 17B RIGHT ON CR 183/AIRPORT RD RIGHT ON RTE 55 LEFT ON CR 142/BRISCOE RD RIGHT ON SHORE RD LEFT ON RTE 52 RIGHT ON CR 149/SHANDELEE RD LEFT ON HUBER RD RIGHT ON THE GULF RD RIGHT ON STEWART RD LEFT ON HIGHLAND AVE RIGHT ON UNION ST PROHIBITION DISTILLERY/FIRE HOUSE ON LEFT
BACKROADS • JUNE 2014
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MOTORCYCLE MARKETPLACE
ALL THAT GOOD STUFF
Riverside Cafe & Lodge, nestled on the Beaverskill River in Roscoe, NY CIA-trained chef • Motel rooms and cabins • Free wi-fi Excellent base location to explore the lower Catskills
Riverside Cafe & Lodge • 16624 Cty Hwy 17 • Roscoe, NY • 607-498-5305 www.riversidecafeandlodge.com • GPS: 41°58’09”N • 75°01’32.6”W
Competing at the Rock, Ribs and Ridges Music/BBQ Festival
June 28-29 • Sussex County Fairgrounds • Augusta, NJ
Touring North Central Virginia? Then ride on over to the NEW Comfort Inn & Suites in Orange
Largest
Join Us in 2014 or 2015
in Latin America
Patagonia, Peru or Bolivia Moto-Inn Approved Tell ‘em Backroads sent you!
Visit our website for all 2014-15 tour dates Ride through Chile, Peru and Argentina. Visit the full range of our beautiful and enchanting places
The newest motorcycle-friendly Motorcyclist Owned & Operated hotel closest to Skyline Drive… Large indoor heated pool and spa • Free deluxe hot breakfast buffet just 30 miles away! Microwaves and fridges in every room • Large rooms + suites available
15 Discount to all Motorcyclists %
Comfort Inn & Suites 334 Caroline St (James Madison Hwy), Orange, VA 22960 540-672-3121 • www.comfortinn.com/hotel-orange-virginia-VA657
Fire Pit • Free WiFi Cooked-to-order Breakfast Heated Pool • BYOB
and see our lakes, other-worldly deserts, Independent touring or guided tours with multilingual guide, mechanic and support vehicle. 14 Years organizing tours and BMW rentals. 80 motorcycles in fleet. World’s 2nd Largest BMW Travel Partner and Official BMW Dealer
the dramatic Andes, snow-covered volcanoes and, of course, the magic world of Patagonia.
email info@motoaventura.cl web www.motoaventura.cl
O’TOOLE’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON
®
Serving New York’s Hudson Valley for 40 years Factory Trained Service • New Model Sales Genuine Harley-Davidson® Parts and Accessories Conveniently located near the areas of Monticello, Middletown, Ellenville, Montgomery, and Walden
4 Sullivan St • Wurtsboro, NY 845-888-2426 • www.OToolesHD.com We welcome everyone from a lone rider to a full chapter
344 Route 100, West Dover, VT www.BigBearsLodge.com 802-464-5591
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS
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MOTORCYCLE MARKETPLACE
ALL THAT GOOD STUFF
THE BIKE SHOP Motorcycle Service Repair + Parts
@ Automotive Revelations Custom welding service and PA inspections available on site
Specializing in resurrecting old bikes and Vintage Custom work 111 Mountain Spring Rd, Milford, PA • 570-228-6101 • fisherfabrications@gmail.com
MOTORCYCLE TRAILERS DAYTONA, BIKETOBERFEST, STURGIS AND BEYOND
BARN TRAILERS
SALES 718-426-7039 • www.barntruckrental.com RENTALS 57-05 BROADWAY • WOODSIDE NY 11377 (OFF THE BQE & LIE)
Worth the ride from anywhere!
Sharing your passion for good food since 1983 Member of
Sussex Hills Ltd. Now stocking a full line of heated gear Make your riding season last all year.
Specializing in Motorcycle Repair, Parts & Supplies • Cycle Tires Mounted & Balanced • Batteries & Hard Parts • Dynojet 250 Dyno available for testing
NOW AVAILABLE Barbeque Catering Flexible • Affordable Ready When You Are
973-875-2048 946 Rte. 23 South Sussex NJ 07461
Norman Gross Since 1976 Our Reputation Speaks for Itself
For All Your Harley-Davidson Needs
3 miles north of Sussex Borough
320 Front Street, Belvidere, NJ • 908-475-2274 • www.thisilldous.com
Come Ride the Dragon Deals Gap
Open Daily for Breakfast and Beyond • 7am to 4pm • Sunday 7am to 1pm Try our Full Throttle Breakfast Special every Saturday + Sunday
318 Curves in 11 Miles
www.dealsgap.com 800.889.5550 17548 Tapoco Road, Robbinsville, NC 28771
Deals Gap Store Motel Bar and Grill
The Riverton
Travel along the scenic backroads of the Delaware river. Meet the Markopoulos family and taste chef George’s Greek American cooking. Best bar menu, lunch or dinner. Fresh poppers, perogies, calamari, clams and crispy wings with 8 different sauces.
Tues. thru Sat. 11am-10pm Sunday: Breakfast 9am-Noon Lunch and Dinner served until 9pm
John, Christina, chef George and Eoanna welcome you and your friends.
The Riverton Hotel and Restaurant
Member of
At Belvidere-Riverton Free Bridge, Riverton, PA
610-498-4241 • www.rivertonhotel.com
The Boat House Restaurant Join us for Brunch, Lunch or Dinner overlooking Swartswood Lake
Member
Excellent Ride Destination Tuesday ~ Sunday 11am-9pm Brunch 10am-2pm • Closed Mondays Call for Seasonal Hours 1040 Cty Rd 521 • Swartswood, NJ 973-300-0016
www.theboathouserestaurantonline.com
‘50s-Style Drive-In Restaurant Full and Varied Menu Room for the Whole Gang
THURSDAY BIKE NIGHT IS BACK • join us at
THE CHATTERBOX DRIVE-IN GREAT FOOD • GOOD TIMES • EXCELLENT RIDING Located at Ross’ Corners • 1 Route 15 • Augusta NJ • 973-300-2300
www.chatterboxdrivein.com
BACKROADS • JUNE 2014
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MOTORCYCLE MARKETPLACE
ALL THAT GOOD STUFF
Ye Olde Landmark Tavern
lley’s Hudson Va ne Riding Number O t Restauran Barbeque W North 1076 Route 9 mery, NY Fort Montgo
oute 9W icturesque R Located on P Perkins Drive minutes from State Park and Harriman Point historic West just south of
845-446-0912 rmerbbq.com www.barnsto
5 Spacious Rooms starting at $90.00 Tavern and Dining Room Menu
Celebrate the Season with some awesome barbeque!
Serving Hours: Mon-Thurs: 5-9pm Fri-Sat: 5-9:30pm Sunday: 1-8pm Seasonal April ~ December Member of
Featured in ‘We’re Outta Here’ Sept. 2011 In the heart of great riding • Between Syracuse and Utica
Cooperstown • Finger Lakes • State Forests
If you go home hungry it’s your own fault
WASHINGTON CYCLE WORKS We cater to road racers and support all Track Day organizations Check us for Suspension Setups • One-piece Road Race suits in stock
Route 20, Bouckville, NY • 315-893-1810 • www.yeoldelandmark.com
If you didn’t like cool stuff, you wouldn’t be reading this magazine. Here’s something you’re going to love.
TORQ-IT
WCW
www.washingtoncycleworks.com
Washington Cycle Works
Junction of Rtes. 57/31 • Washington, NJ 07882
908-835-0043 Closed Sun-Mon • Open: Tues-Thurs 9:30AM-7PM • Fri 9:30AM-6PM • Sat 9AM-3PM
Screwdriver/Speed Wrench/ Palm Ratchet All In One Tool Variable Speeds Over 600RPM Low Profile, with an “Ergo” Grip and a Non-Slip Design Accepts All 3/8” and 1/4” Sockets and Extensions
BASIC SET: $19.95 • DELUXE SET: $29.95 • ACCESORY SET: $9.95
TORQ-IT PRODUCTS, INC. 1701 Manor Road • Havertown PA 19083 Tel: 1.888.876.9555 • Visit Our New Website: WWW.TORQ-IT.COM
JUNE 2014 • BACKROADS
Page 56
MOTORCYCLE MARKETPLACE
ALL THAT GOOD STUFF
American • Metric • Sport • Parts & Accessories • Award-winning Service • Performance Work • Dyno Tuning • S&S Pro Tuning Center • Power Commander Tuning Center
JDS CYCLE PARTS EST. 1988 247 W. Westfield Ave, Rosell Park, NJ
908-245-2445
ONLY Full Line KTM Dealer in the tri-state area
HUGE inventory of KTM Parts, Accessories and Apparel
Follow Us on Twitter Watch Us on YouTube Like Us on Facebook for Up-To-The-Minute News
JUNE 2014 KTM FACTORY DEMO TRUCK WILL BE AT THE STORE DEMO RIDE ANY KTM STREET BIKE check website or Facebook for date
210 Route 10 West • East Hanover, NJ • 973-428-1735 JUST 35 MINUTES FROM NYC BRIDGES AND TUNNELS
www.HanoverPowersports.com Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri: 9am-6pm • Thur: 9am-8pm • Sat: 9am-5pm SUNDAY: CLOSED - GONE RIDING
2014 CB1100
2014 Super Ténéré ES
An updated iconic clasic
2014 CTX™1300 Legendary Power Groundbreaking Style
210 Route 10 West, East Hanover, NJ
Follow Us on Twitter
973-428-1735
Watch Us on YouTube
www.Powersports.Honda.com Follow Us on Twitter
Like Us on Facebook
Watch Us on YouTube
210 Route 10 West, East Hanover, NJ • 973-428-1735
Like Us on Facebook for Up-To-The-Minute News
www.HanoverPowersports.com
honda.com ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING. NEVER RIDE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL, AND NEVER USE THE STREET AS A RACETRACK. OBEY THE LAW AND READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL THOROUGHLY. For rider training information or to locate a rider training course near you, call the Motorcycle Safety Foundation at 800-446-9227. CTX™ is a registered trademarks of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (07/13)
Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, gloves and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, please call 1-800-446-9227. Professional rider depicted on a closed course. ©2013 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. • YamahaMotorsports.com