November 2014

NOVEMBER

2014

Motorcycles, Travel & Adventure Volume 20 No. 11

Backroads Fall Fiesta 2014

Road Tested - Kawasaki Ninja 1000 + 300 Mysterious Insanity Summer Riding Recaps Monthly Columns and More

W H A T ’ S

I N S I D E

MONT HLY CO L UM NS FREE WHEELIN’ ..................................................4

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Motorcycles, Travel & Adventure

WHATCHATHINKIN’.............................................6 ON THE MARK.....................................................7 POSTCARDS FROM THE HEDGE.......................8 INDUSTRY INFOBITES ......................................10

Publishers

Brian Rathjen • Shira Kamil

Contributors

Mark Byers, Mark Brown, Bill Heald, Von Smythe-Smythe Mike Simonette, Dr. Seymour O’Life

BACKLASH ........................................................12 WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE ............................13 WE’RE OUTTA HERE .........................................14 BIG CITY GETAWAY ..........................................16

Editorial Office BACKROADS, POB 317 Branchville NJ 07826

GREAT ALL AMERICAN DINER RUN ................18

phone

973.948.4176

MYSTERIOUS AMERICA ...................................20

fax

973.948.0823

UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR.....................36

email

editor@backroadsusa.com

SHIRA’S ICE CREAM RUN ................................38

online

www.backroadsusa.com

MOTORCYCLE MARKETPLACE .......................46

advertising

973-948-4176

FEAT URE S

44

BACKROADS FALL FIESTA 2014......................23 AMERICADE 2014 RECAP ................................44

MOTO R CY CLE RE V IE W S 2014 KAWASAKI NINJA 1000 + 300.................30

PR O D UCT R E V IE W S SARGENT CYCLE KLR 650 TOURING SEAT ...35 GARMIN ZUMO 590LM GPS ............................40 TOURATECH ZUMO 590LM MOUNT ...............42 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHTS ..................................43

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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.

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NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

FREE WHEELIN’ BRIAN RATHJEN

Camp Re-Fugee A few months back I attended a rally in upstate New York. It was specifically a BMW rally, although other machines were welcome if they were invited and came with a BMW rider. That might have been a bit of a red flag, but it was a private club and private event. Like some other brand-specific events the only thing you needed to attend was a BMW motorcycle or friend with one.

This BMW rally is like many such held around the country each year and, like so many of these, camping plays a large attraction for some. This really is a BMW phenomenon and it might work for many BMW riders.

Me? Not so much.

I have always wondered at the allure of camping at BMW rallies. For sure we have done our fair share of ‘roughing’ it in some field somewhere but, as time went on, the siren call of camping fell silent.

I do believe my epiphany was the morning of one overnight rally when we were in the middle of some wet field with a serious lack of anything else… but a wet field. It was a beautiful morning as the mist encircled the camp ground giving a real Swamp People effect while the rising sun did its best to burn through the weather. It would happen about three days later.

It was around the time when the water poured down my back as I got out of the tent on this drizzly morn that the angel Tortellini appeared to me and handed me a list of better inns, B & Bs and hotels on the planet.

We have been spreading this message in our We’re Outta Here column ever since.

At this recent event in New York, the PA announcer, at the closing ceremonies, was telling the crowd a number of stats and one was how many attendees chose to stay at local hotels, rather than camp.

It was their choice; and I never saw any one of these folks putting down

those who chose to tent it rather than hotel it. Well, until now.

So, I was a bit surprised at the loud round of boos and hisses that resounded at attendees who chose a hotel room. There was an honest ‘us against them’ mentality and I almost thought they were going to get some ropes. I was very taken back by this and just a tad resentful that they felt the need to get so petulant.

Let me be clear on this – in my humble opinion – you booers and hissers have bought one of the priciest machines on the planet - a BMW - or have restored some, at great expense, to their former greatness. You have some cash – obviously – but, honey, let’s go camp.

Camp? Sorry, not for me if I can get around it.

I am not against it in the far corners of the planet, but in the USA or any MOA rally – no thanks. How’d that Saturday night rain work out for you?

Was that a bear, skunk or rabid dragon outside your tent at 3 am?

While at this rally one of the Eds’ came up and wondered why more of these folks didn’t come along on some of our Backroads Events – the Spring Break, Summer Squeeze or Fall Fiesta?

We wonder that too.

Our events are fun and friendly. They offer great rides and lots of wonderful and appealing miles. There are always in an interesting area with plenty to see and do. And, unlike every other rally, ride or event in the motorcycle world – they are free.

You only pay for your own expenses and not for something you will not use or participate in. Backroads will do our best to provide the fun.

There’ll be no camping and you won’t get wet unless it’s the hot tub, pool or shower. Rain on the ride doesn’t count, it’s part of the magic of riding.

When it comes to camping always remember…

There is a common denominator in all of these places.

Work camp, prison camp, labor camp, refugee camp (or according to Stan Smith of American Dad “Camp Re-Fugee”) or CYO Day Camp – they are all bad. So if you feel that staying in a hotel, inn or B & B is less than a pure experience please keep the heckling to yourself and we’ll arrange for a food drop for you.

See you at Backroads’ Camp Re-Fugee!

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NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

W H AT C H AT H I N K I N ’ SHIRA KAMIL

Take a seaT Riding around on a beautiful autumn day will put you in touch with, and in sight of, many different riders. As the movie says, on any Sunday you are bound to pass and be passed by motorcyclists from all walks of life. With the warm weather in the northeast waning, we’re ‘getting in as much riding as we can.

On such a day, while meandering here and there, I starting to thinking about the different styles of motorcycles and their riders. Tourers, cruisers, sportbikes, on and off-road and everything that may fall outside those bounds.

But I wasn’t thinking so much about the machines as I was about the passengers on them.

Having been a co-pilot on pretty much all manner of two, and three, wheeled motos, I was thinking of the different mindset of each. My first ride was on the back of a Triumph Bonneville. With its long, flat saddle, nothing even close to proper riding gear and something that probably passed for a helmet, we would take short but enjoyable rides, mostly up the Palisades Parkway. I held on for my life, as the pilot was not so smooth and I was not so learned in being a motorcycle passenger.

Let’s analyze just what’s out there…

Sport Bike: With some of the smaller seats on the market, the sport bike pillion has the least real estate out there. If the owner of the bike likes to keep the sleek, svelte profile as designed, the passenger usually has to perch precariously, either wrapping arms around the pilot or clinging to the sometimes-present grab rails. For the most part the footpegs are set so high that one’s elbows could easily rest on one’s knees. These spots are best left to the young and flexible, with small bottoms and fearlessness.

I remember when Brian bought his Ninja 600; it was such a beautiful bike and I couldn’t wait for the weekends when we would pack up the bike and head out in any direction. In those days we used to camp and I would have

this very, very small spot behind him, surrounded by our camping gear and change of clothes. It was quite a funny sight and I couldn’t believe, after switching out for a Concours, that I had really ridden all those miles with so little underneath me.

Touring Bike: Ah, the lazy chair of the motorcycle world. What more could a passenger want than a wide, cushy seat, padded backrest with arms, floorboards to rest the feet and, most likely, a cup holder. I know, many touring bikes are as nimble as a whippet without the Barkolounger look, but for my analysis that’s not what I’m looking for. In all my years attending Americade, the king of touring rallies, I have seen every conceivable outfit that could be worn on the back of one of these bikes. Back in the day, it was the ‘balloon’ pants in the wackiest of prints and billowing satin jacket. When the weather got too warm, shorts, flip flops and tank top, sipping out of a Big Gulp from 7-Eleven. I’ve seen women doing their nails, reading a book and knitting.

Not really sure why they are on the back of the bike doing this, but at least they had a nice view and comfortable seat.

Adventure Tourer: I’ve probably spent more time on the back of one of these bikes than any other. Most, whether it’s a Ducati Multistrada, KTM Adventure, Yamaha Super Tenere, BMW GS or whatever, have been farkled and outfitted out the wazoo. Saddlebags, big fairing, oversized footpegs and top cases are pretty standard, thus giving the passenger a pretty nice spot to occupy while traversing the gnarliness that is adventure touring.

One of the most memorable back seat trips I’ve ever taken on a BMW 1200 GS was in South America, traveling from Osorno to Ushuaia, the end of the world. I was supposed to have ridden my own F650 GS but at the last minute we were two-up on the 1200. Riding down Ruta 40, the national road, in 40 mph winds on the most rocky road I can remember, I kept hold on the grab rails and yelled out the scenery to Brian; “Look, there goes a Puma.

Hey, I think that was a Guanaco. Look out for the Rhea.” I had to keep myself occupied lest I realize what a really scary ride this was.

Here’s to all the co-pilots out there; that little boy or girl, sitting behind mom or dad for the first time and taking the first ride around the neighborhood; the young couple heading off on their first long adventure; the couple with hundreds of thousands of miles under their butts. No matter what style of bike you’re on, take a seat and enjoy the ride.

BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

ON THE MARK MARK BYERS

anTiCipaTion Remember when you waited with such breathless anticipation that you trembled? If you were waiting for a mail-order trinket, you’d check the mailbox dozens of times a day or stalk the mailman like a sniper. Or maybe it was summer vacation for which you longed – that temporary parole from academic imprisonment. Perhaps it was just the end of the day for which you pined, watching beautiful dirt-riding hours slide by the windows while some old guy droned on about social studies.

I feel that way about motorcycle events. I put them in my paper calendar, on my electronic calendars, and post flyers on the refrigerator.

This spring, I lusted for the Backroads Spring Break in Marion, Virginia so I could see old friends and discover new apexes. Then, it was Pridmore’s school at VIR. Then it was Summer Squeeze. Later in October, it’ll be the CLASS school again, but right now, it’s the 20th Anniversary edition of the Shenandoah 500 Dual-Sport ride.

I’m like a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs over Shenandoah.

At the end of July, I blew out my Mediate Cruciate Ligament (MCL). They should call it the “most excruciating ligament” because your thigh goes one way and your lower leg another, leaving you in a paroxysm of pain. I groveled on the ground, spewing obscenities at MotoGP speeds. One of the first things that went through my head was the thought “I’m not going to be able to ride!” Fortunately, a sadistic PT named Caroline got my knee in shape.

I desperately want to ride Shenandoah: I had a new top end put in the CRF250 and I had the opening of registration marked on about seven calendars.

At the magic hour on registration day, I was online getting ride tickets and on the phone making campsite reservations. Then there was the internet crawl through shops carrying everything from tire tools to roll chart holders. I was a kid again, except it was the UPS man I stalked: Santa in a brown suit and sleigh.

Page 7 For the past two weeks, I’ve rewired the bike, arranged for insurance, gotten it registered, cleaned, lubed, and checked it thoroughly, and done a shakedown ride. Fender bags were mounted, tubes were acquired, and new brake pads affixed. The staging area, AKA kitchen table, is festooned with gloves and helmet, offroad pants and jerseys, tools and first aid kits and goggles and on and on and on. Yep, I’m a royal pain in the ass right now. My poor wife.

I picked up the trailer tonight and the EZ up is staged on the front porch, where it’s been for the last, oh, three weeks or so. Good lord, I even had a furtive meeting with my tool pusher on the side of the road tonight to slake my socket jones. Forget ebola, baby, I’ve got a raging case of Erolla, the dirt fever. I’ll barely be able to contain myself at work tomorrow, knowing I have the tent and gas cans to pack. There are Gaerne boots to oil lovingly with baseball glove treatment and stuff I don’t even need to do that I’ll do anyway. I’ve got a four-door truck with a short bed, but a long trailer – yeah, I’m so gonna overpack.

There’s nothing a dirt-riding detail freak likes more than to get his prep on. But it goes deeper than that: the minute this weekend concludes, before the mud has dried and the emotional tide can fully recede, another wave of anticipation will roll in carrying the thrill of prep for the next ride. There’ll be different equipment to lay out: offroad pants will become leathers and dirt helmets will become full-faces. As a special bonus, two friends are joining the fray at the track, neither of who have been before. I can hardly wait to sit with them on the veranda of the bar at VIR, dissecting the day dicing the track…but I digress - first things first.

I can already smell the campfire at Natural Chimneys Park. In my mind, I see dual-sport vendors set up in the paddock by the tech inspection tent. Note to self: don’t forget the tire gauge, because Virginia rocks are sharp. Mentally, I’m already kicked back in a camp chair, staring at seven colorful woods weapons locked and loaded underneath an EZ-up, ready to be fired at forest roads and singletrack on the spine of the Blue Ridge. I’m salivating like Pavlov’s dog. I’m giddy with anticipation.

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NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

POSTCARDS FROM THE HEDGE BILL HEALD

a new sTaRT FoR ama RoadRaCing?

Time flies when you stick around awhile. My concept of this whole time thing has always been a bit dodgy, and significant events seem to get crammed together like a saddlebag tightly packed with exotic underthings. Not that I’d know anything about that such apparel, you understand. My point here is that is seems like only yesterday that I was down in the Daytona press room, hearing Roger Edmondson and AMA Czar Rob Dingman explain the new ownership of the AMA roadracing series. It had been taken over by the Daytona Motorsports Group (DIS), and there was much caution in the press corps on whether this was a good thing or not. You have to remember DIS means NASCAR, and NASCAR and motorcycle roadracing are very different beasts. Even given the fact that at the time (2008) the stock car series was rolling in cash, there was some healthy skepticism as to the acquisition would mean the motorcycles would start racing primarily on ovals with detergent sponsorships, or if the new overlords would try to get back some of the magic found in the nineties when the series had full factory involvement and tremendous popularity.

Suffice it to say, things haven’t quite gone the way we would have liked.

The reasons why are diverse and plentiful, including the general state of the motorcycle economy and the lack of participation by several major factories.

In the “old days,” we had factory-backed teams run by genuine personalities, Like Rob Muzzy (Kawasaki), Vance and Hines (Yamaha), Eraldo Ferracci (Ducati) and numerous others, not to mention legendary riders like Scott

Russell, Doug Polen, Eddie Lawson, Colin Edwards; all guys that also won World Championships and marked a time when Americans dominated the world stage. One of the Greatest of the Great was Wayne Rainey, who I’m delighted to report is a key figure in the current changes taking place to the AMA professional roadracing series. DIS is out, and KRAVE is in, and this could be a true Godsend for all involved.

I could devote several columns to Wayne’s tremendous life on motorcycles, and this singular rider would have garnered even more championships had fate been kinder. If you may recall, Wayne’s roadracing career was tragically cut short in 1993 when he was injured in a fall during the Italian Grand Prix in Milano. He has been wheelchair-bound ever since, but his indomitable spirit has kept him racing in karts as well as managing roadracing teams and staying involved with all aspects of racing. He is an expert on the business side of the sport as well, and to say he’s qualified to be at the helm of a new series is an understatement. His organization (called KRAVE) has purchased the rights to the AMA pro roadracing concern and therefore Wayne and his partners will be running what will be called the MotoAmerica series. As things have just been officially handed over to Rainey and Co., they have a formidable task ahead of them to organize an all-new series that hopefully bring back manufacturers, riders and fans in a very short period of time. When the series will likely start with the 2015 Daytona 200 in March, the only thing we know right now is that the Superbikes will be the mounts for the Premier race, instead of the 600s that have been running it for the last several years.

During its tenure running the series, the Daytona Motorsports Group tried all kinds of things. These included even running the race at night, and trying to (initially) make the whole Daytona 200 weekend look like a NASCAR gathering which no doubt some patrons liked but many others did not. What happened to AMA racing was ultimately a perfect storm of bad decisions

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS made during challenging times for the industry, and to be honest it’s been very depressing to see, especially since so many talented riders haven’t been receiving the exposure and support that would have helped train them for international competition. Wayne Rainey wants to change all that, and if anybody can right this ship Rainey and his group may just be the ones to do it.

And why does any of this matter to the street riders and long-haul touring riders anyway? Will the success or failure of professional roadracing have any effect on the hauling capacity of your sport-tourer? Racing and street riding are more connected than you might think, and the motorcycles we all ride owe much to the racetrack. It is here where some of the most important engineering takes place, and much of what is discovered can ultimately find its way to production machines. Engines, suspension, chassis, brakes, and especially tires get the ultimate shakedown in the harsh environment the track dishes out, and it is here where fresh ideas get tried and the technology of riding gets advanced. This is another reason why the manufacturers need to be as involved as they used to be, for not only is it good for the brand when they perform well it adds valuable data to R&D departments. Add the advancements in safety equipment and apparel that have evolved as bikes have become faster, and you can see another reason why the success of the series reaps benefits to the whole riding experience.

And, there’s one more aspect of this racing thing that is of great value. As a sport, racing these machines at the edge of controllable performance is an amazing thing to see, and it’s an incredibly exciting, fast-paced competition that is perfectly suited for the latest in miniaturized on-board camera tech-

Page 9 nology and high definition hardware. The men and women who compete are athletes in every sense of the word, and can inspire new riders to learn the operation of their machines and hone their skills to a much higher degree (which makes them safer riders). So here’s to Wayne and his crew, and best wishes that 2015 will see a true renewal of a very important pastime.

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IND USTRY INFOBITES

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

News from the Inside

TRAMONTIN HARLEY-DAVIDSON’S ‘BUB’ PASSES

ON ANY SUNDAY…. THE NEXT CHAPTER

Arthur ‘Bub’ Tramontin, 94, President of Harley-Davidson dealership, WWII Army sergeant, a lifelong resident of Clifton, N.J., died Tuesday, Sept.

16, 2014, at St. Mary’s Hospital, Passaic, N.J. Arthur was born Sept. 30, 1919, in Passaic. He was the son of the late Ernest and Pierina (Harabalja) Tramontin.

He was married to the late Dorothy Tramontin. He served in the U.S. Army during the World War II from 1944 to 1946 as a sergeant.

Arthur was the president of Tramontin Harley-Davidson, Clifton/Hope, N.J., which is celebrating its 100th year anniversary this coming 2015.

Arthur was an avid motorcycle racer and hill climber. He was a lifetime member of the American Motorcycle Association and was owner of the oldest motorcycle dealership in New Jersey.

He is survived by his son, Robert Tramontin and wife, Carol; two daughters, Jacqueline Moyer and husband, Carl, Terry Cheney and husband, Gerald; one sister, Gloria Struck; his companion, Julia Loczko; seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

For those desiring, donations may be made to Puppy Rescue Mission, (Soldiers saving puppies, puppies saving soldiers), P.O. Box 1516, Celina, Texas, in memory of Arthur.

Red Bull Media House, in association with Freeride Entertainment, announced it will release a new motorcycle documentary “On Any Sunday, The Next Chapter” in theaters nationwide on November 7th. From director Dana Brown (“Step Into Liquid,” “Dust to Glory”), the film is a follow-up to the 1971 Academy Award®-nominated documentary, “On Any Sunday”, directed by his father, Bruce Brown. The 90-minute documentary film features today’s powered two-wheel superstars including MotoGP riders Marc Márquez and Dani Pedrosa, action sports superstar Travis Pastrana, freestyle motocross pioneer Robbie Maddison, Pikes Peak International Hill Climb motorcycle champ Carlin Dunne, women’s motocross champ Ashley Fiolek, motocross legend Doug Henry, custom motorcycle designer and former racer Roland Sands and one of the most successful riders in supercross history, James Stewart.

The film will release nationally throughout the major theatrical chains including Regal Entertainment, AMC Theatres, Cinemark and Carmike Cinemas on November 7th and is available for distribution worldwide. For showtimes and locations, visit www.onanysundayfilm.com.

“This is the first time a feature film from Red Bull Media House will have national theatrical distribution in the United States,” said Werner Brell, Managing Director of Red Bull Media House North America. “Releasing the film nationally gives us the opportunity to reach new audiences and excite those who ride, where they ride.”

When “On Any Sunday” premiered in 1971, it wasn’t just any movie. Di-

BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

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rected by Bruce Brown – who also helmed surfing classic “The Endless Summer” – this insider look at motorcycle culture reached a wide audience that was fascinated by the heartfelt stories of the men behind the bikes, earning an Academy Award®-nomination for Best Documentary Feature.

Director Dana Brown suggests that the timing was just right for a followup to his father Bruce Brown’s film, “On Any Sunday”: “Bikes are better, athletes have progressed, and there are so many disciplines now. In fact, we couldn’t possibly do justice to all of them in this 90-minute movie. We set out to show a cross- section of motorcycling today, and here’s hoping we’ve succeeded.”

started racing on the salt, so it’s an awesome achievement for me. I can’t thank my team enough for their outstanding fight to the end. Ray Garcia did an incredible job of making all the right calls on the bike’s set up. Now I can focus on setting more records and going faster with the Red Hat,” added an ecstatic Thompson.

According to USFRA secretary, Ellen Wilkinson, more than 150 teams pre-registered for the event, which was cancelled last year due to rain. “This was my first time racing at an USFRA sanctioned event and I was very impressed. Everything went smooth and we got a lot of runs in. I can’t wait to come back next year,” said Thompson.

VALERIE THOMPSON RED HAT BECOMES ONE OF THE NEWEST MEMBERS OF THE BONNEVILLE 200 MPH CLUB

CHINESE UNIVERSITY DEVELOPING TRACKED MOTORCYCLE

Motorcycle racer and team owner, Valerie Thompson, set her 7th land speed record on her CTEK sponsored BMW S 1000 RR during the Utah Salt Flats Racing Association’s 28th Annual World of Speed event September 69 at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Wendover Utah.

Thompson spent a month in Utah to compete in the three most prestigious land speed racing events held at the famed Salt Flats, including Speed Week, the Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials and World of Speed. Speed Week was canceled due to heavy rains. Weather and track conditions during the Motorcycle Speed Trials prevented Thompson from setting a new record despite making a strong 203.77 mph pass.

This gives the phrase “rides like a tank” a whole new meaning.

China’s Chang’an University has filed a patent for a motorcycle that rides on a single track instead of tires, Visor Down reports.

Details are scarce, but the vehicle features a continuous track threaded around at least four wheels and, based on the livery, is intended as a go-anywhere rescue vehicle.

The design brings to mind a pair of proposals submitted to the Michelin Challenge Design competition in 2006, but featured tracks that could be deflected side to side to provide steering, something a single track can’t do well on its own. Unfortunately, neither was ever built to prove the concept. Earlier attempts at this type of ride-on also never met with much success.

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Thompson’s patience paid off during the World of Speed event where her BMW S 1000 RR was fast right out of the trailer. Six out of eight of Thompson’s passes were over 200 mph. On her last run of the event, Thompson enjoyed her best speed on the salt with a first pass at 209.85 mph and a return run of 207.71 mph, setting a new MPS-G 1000 record at 208.81 mph. The new record earned Thompson lifetime membership in the prestigious Red Hat Club, recognizing her 200+ mph performance.

“I’ve wanted the 200 MPH Club Red Hat since I

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BACKLASH Travel Far Grasshpper Hey Backroads, I am earning my sticker.

Halfway through 2000-mile backroad journey through mountains of Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Kentucky. GS getting christened.

Gary Angiulis Hello Shira and Brian, It was nice to sit on the Café’ porch and visit with like-minded riders yesterday afternoon in beautiful downtown Hamden. Hope your afternoon was as good as mine and you guys found some backroads that you had never ridden on before. I finally found out where my friends, part of the PCTD group in NE PA, were hiding/riding. You no doubt have met up with some of our loosely formed club, the Pocono Crash Test Dummies (PCTD) on the road or at the campfire.

They were in the eastern Catskils south of Hunter Mountain.

Well take care now and hope to see you down the road.

David Moss Backroads, Just read the October issue. Ron Davis’ article on ‘How to Change your Oil’ was hysterical! My face still hurts from laughing out loud and smiling.

Barry Ellman

Backroads Fall Fiesta 2014 Backroads, Great weather, great friends, great roads, and upon my return home finding the October issue of Backroads waiting - PERFECT! Tony Lisanti Hi Guys, Thanks for putting together a wonderful weekend with great roads, great people, great place, great food, great weather. Overall - GREAT. Thank You, Michael & Nuri Wernick Brian & Shira, I want you to know how gratified Jean and I were at the warm reception she and my grandson Avery received in Shippensburg. The decision for them to come was made with hesitancy. We realize these Backroads affairs are not family get togethers but we wanted Avery to meet our friends, see the motorcycles and see how a night or two at a hotel worked out.

We anticipated everyone to be polite but didn’t expect the warm, caring reception he received. The attention, patience, and even little gifts were gratifying. Just another confirmation of the loving nature of the Backroads Family.

The great riding in the area was icing on the cake.

Thanks to all for everything.

John & Jean Petrocelli Brian & Shira Mike and I want to thank you for ordering the wonderful weather, the great hotel, the beautiful roads and wonderful people that always show up at your rallies.

It was great seeing everyone and catching up.

I am sure everyone is looking forward to see what you have in store for 2015…

Thanks again and see you soon. Safe riding Mike & Pam

BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

Letters to the Editor Brian and Shira Thanks for another great event. How do you do it year after year?

This Fall Fiesta was somewhat unique in that it fell on the same day as the second day of the Jewish New Year, Rosh Ha Shana. We keep track of the Jewish Holidays on the Hebrew lunar calendar, and the Backroads events are, of course, on the Gregorian solar calendar. Scholars have examined both calendars and determined that the next time the two events will fall on the same day will not be for another 500 years.

I want to thank all who attended the Kiddish on Thursday night.

Danny Herbst Thanks to all who attended our rally in Shippensburg, PA. 2014 brought great weather and riding for all our events, and as soon as we figure out how to do that again next year, we’ll spread the word where it will be.

BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

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Welcome to the Jungle - The Art of Learning to Ride Skillfully A column dedicated to your riding survival

SITUATIONAL AWARENESS - IF What does it take to survive the jungle? It takes a lot of things, one of the most important is “situational awareness”. That’s right, knowing what is going on around you 360 degrees, left, right, front, back, north south, east, west and everything in between. IF we know what is going on and we can see it then we are able to respond to a situation that may occur before it happens IF “we can predict it, we can prevent it”. This is only IF we see it or know it is coming our way.

In order for things to startle us they must first catch us off guard. The reason things startle us is because we do not see them coming. I want to be able to predict a situation and make sound decisions about my riding before the bad starts to happen. I want to respond to what traffic could do instead of reacting to what it is doing. IF we are reacting we are already behind, why? Because we are basing our reaction to someone else’s action therefore putting us behind the curve and the best we can hope for is a tie and a tie in motorcycling is not good enough. IF we lose then we would have damage and injury. If we tie then we could possibly have damage and injury. I want to win so I do not have damage or injury. I want to take opportunities, not chances. IF I’m using my situational awareness and predicting what may happen then I should create more opportunities for myself and my bike.

Situational awareness is keeping your eyes moving at all times. Looking left, checking left mirror, looking right, checking right mirror and looking forward. When checking my mirrors I like to check them about every 5 – 7 seconds. When looking forward I’m scanning left to right, conducting a surface appraisal looking for traffic that may turn left in front of me, looking for traffic that may change lanes on me, looking at traffic way in front of the vehicle that is immediately in front of me so I can see and predict what the

car in front of me is doing or may do therefore start predicting my escape route or my response to take evasive action or slow down or speed up and get out of the way. It depends on the situation but the bottom line is if you don’t predict it through situational awareness then you can’t prevent it from occurring and you become a statistic.

My Martial Arts teacher taught us the 3 A’s, Awareness, Avoidance, Action.

The first, of course, “awareness”. Be aware of your surroundings and know what is going on. IF you don’t like the situation then try to avoid it. IF you can’t avoid the situation then you must take action. Dealing with the highway roadway jungle is the same way. IF I’m aware of a bad intersection and realize the dangers then I can put me and my motorcycle in a position to see and to be seen and avoid blind spots as I approach. IF I’m in the best position possible based on my awareness and I’m avoiding blind spots and putting myself so others can see me then I’m taking action and preparing for the worst or pretending like I’m invisible then the reactionary gap is now on my side and the car driver. Call me crazy but I like to stack the deck in my favor.

I do not believe in luck. The definition of luck is when preparation (situational awareness) meets opportunity. Our heightened level of situational awareness helps us to take those opportunities and not take chances. Remember the difference in opportunities and chances are when taking chances you’re betting you have a 50/50 shot of making it. Taking opportunities allows for a higher success rate and a lot better return on your investment predicting a positive outcome so you can prevent the bad outcome.

Mark Brown is the owner and lead instructor at MotoMark1 North Carolina’s Premier Motorcycle Training School For more information log onto www.motomark1.com

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NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

Bergen County Harley-Davidson Presents

WE ’RE OUT TA HE RE Riding THe CRaggY maine CoasTLine FoR LoBsTaH THe QuaHog BaY inn 5 LOBSTER LANE, HARPSWELL, ME 04079 207-725-9995 • WWW.qUAHOGBAYINN.COM RATES START AT $125/SPRING As Backroads so eloquently puts it “We’re Outta Here”. We felt it was time to take the first long ride of the season, exercising the motorcycles and getting into our riding shape. We decided to head to one of our favorite places, the quahog Inn located on Lobster Lane in Harpswell, Maine. Carving along the backroads of Maine we are pleasantly surprised to have light traffic and fair skies. The ride there was pleasant and uneventful and the motorcycles fully awake after a long winters nap. The weather cooperated for most of the way, a sprinkle here and there. In the month of May along the coast you get that slight sea breeze that chills you a bit, you know the one that you do not get in July when you need it most.

Once there, we were pleasantly surprised that the showers had stopped and the sun was shining brightly.

The quahog Inn is a lovely place to spend some quality time with your favorite person. There are many rooms (as big as an apartment) to choose from and you can’t go wrong with anyone of them. The pride that the owners take in this property is very evident. The rooms are spotless and are equipped with a full kitchen, dining area, living

a weekend destination keeping you on the backroads room and either one or two bedrooms. Our room on this visit, the Crow’s Nest, had a balcony that we utilized heavily for cocktail hour and morning coffee. The view is fantastic!

Growing up along the coast of Maine it brings back all those childhood memories like digging for clams and playing in the tidal pools. The Inn itself shares the dock with the quahog Lobster Company so it is a working dock.

Sometime in the night a good size fishing vessel came in to the dock and the fishermen were unloading the bounty of the sea. During our leisurely morning coffee and cigar we would notice men of the sea come and go. We noticed a shuttle that was taking carpenters and masons to an island where a home is being built. You can still enjoy the dock yourself, as Jane and John the owners of the quahog Inn rent out several different types of water vessels. They have a 14ft skiff, a 19 ft. boat, kayaks and canoes for your enjoyment, all at very fair rental prices. There is a caveat on the boats though; you must have some sailing abilities as you will be the captain of the ship.

If your idea is to sit back, relax and read a book this is the place. What makes the Inn even more special is that you can order lobsters in the morning and Jane will cook and deliver them to you for dinner, at boat prices!

You cannot beat this. The kitchen is a full kitchen so bring whatever sides you want to serve with your lobster and prepare it right there. No driving into town on your bike looking for the perfect lobster dinner.

Harpswell itself is a very quaint Maine town. It has 216 miles of pristine coastline and is 10 minutes south of Brunswick which used to be the home of the Brunswick Naval

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BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

Air Station. Look on the map of Maine and you will see the peninsulas that extend like fingers into the water.

Most homes are very modest and there is small town feel and charm that has been there for centuries. Harpswell is a town in Cumberland County, Maine within Casco Bay in the Gulf of Maine. Harpswell is composed of land contiguous with the rest of Cumberland County, called Harpswell Neck, as well as several large and small islands: Sebascodegan Island, Orr’s Island, and Bailey Island. Almost every home along this craggy coast has lobster traps and a lobster boat in the front yard this time of year either waiting to

Page 15

put the traps in or changing out the traps already in, as this is how many people either make or enhance their living in this town. There are many things to see and do. If you do venture out for a meal, Cooks Lobster House is a restaurant that has been serving up lobster since 1955. It is everything you would expect from a Lobster House. To add to your experience of dining by the sea, you will have an unparalleled view of the world’s only Cribstone bridge. The bridge was built in 1927 and entered on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 and a National Civil Engineering Landmark. The bridge was rebuilt in 2009-2011 to hopefully withstand another 85 years of ceaseless motion and exposure.

When the morning arrives, Jane offers a very nice continental breakfast in the dining room attached to the office. Generally you will find her famous homemade 1 pound muffins, yogurt, oatmeal, breads, coffee etc. and good conversation and recommendations on where to go and what to see.

This is a mini vacation that revives the soul and makes you appreciate the beauty that nature has to offer.

W.W. Von Smythe-Smythe

Page 16

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

Hanover Powersports Presents

BIG CI T Y G ETAWAY musTang FaCToRY TouR - made in THe usa words: Brian Rathjen • images: Brian Rathjen + Mark Byers As you ride into the town of Three Rivers, Massachusetts the sign tells you it is a “Nice Place to Live.”

You wouldn’t have to convince the folks at Mustang Motorcycle Seats.

They have called this old industrial town home for a long time and it is here, in a building dating back more than a century, Mustang creates some of the finest and most comfortable motorcycle seats in the world.

We had been invited by Marilyn Simmons, part of the family that have operated the company for decades, to take the in-depth tour they are offering to riders and riding groups of the Three Rivers factory. On our way back from this year’s Summer Squeeze we happily did the quick 90 mile ride down into Massachusetts from Vermont.

We were greeted at the door by Marilyn and, after getting a quick rundown on what to expect, getting our safety glasses and signing the waiver, we were escorted through the main doors an into the mammoth facility.

This building was once home to a textile mill and looking at the wide hardwood floor and high ceilings, you can feel the building’s history.

Every time we have taken a factory tour we have always left with the knowledge that so much more goes into creating the things we take for

daytrip ideas to get out of the daily grind granted than what we originally thought - if we thought at all.

Nothing done well is done easily and the same goes for creating excellent seats and saddles for today’s motorcycles.

There are some universal truths and one of them is that your motorcycle, as it comes from the factory, will need a saddle replacement somewhere along the line - as these guys can make great machines but skipped the classes on seat development.

Enter Mustang.

Their large, 80,000 square feet, facility holds everything that it takes to create state-of–the–art seats, from the design studio where new machines are brought in and Mustang saddles are carefully and expertly designed to the machine and metal shop where fabrication begins to the fiberglass shop and leather and vinyl stitching areas.

The tour, which lasts a good hour and a half, takes you from the early ideas and sketches to model fabrication to the actual building of each saddle.

Yes, they have motorcycles there being measured and fitted to make sure every application

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BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

Page 17 is perfect. We were fortunate to have the seat guru himself, Al Simmons, join us for a short stop and explain the process behind new model design and Mustang’s productions.

Like most factories we have visited, at least the ones that make high quality and respected goods, the vibe is very up beat and the people working there know they are making something special and appreciated.

We got this feel at the Martin guitar factory and we got it in Three Rivers too.

Most of the employees are New England natives and many have been with the company for many years.

Karen Lundquist, the head of the sewing department has been with Mustang for well over three decades. She is as much a part of Mustang and their success as any of the owners.

They all seem to have a certain pride in what they do and it shows in every Mustang saddle.

Mustang is a stickler for details and all the saddles start with a solid foundation from the creation of well-made and supportive seat pans, designed to offer rider all day support to the final stitch and inspection.

The foam used for each saddle is also the best on the planet, allowing for both the perfect look and fit.

Powder coating and hardware is all state-of-the-art and watching the stitching department create intricate details, down to the smallest button, was incredible to see.

No machines here – each saddle is hand stitched by experienced seamstresses.

Then each piece is individually checked for any flaws or imperfections.

When all is done new inventory is stacked in the familiar white Mustang boxes awaiting shipping to various dealers and riders.

In the past we have fitted Mustang seats on various project and test motorcycles, always with happy results, and it was great to finally get to see where all the magic is thought up, worked on and created.

Mustang Motorcycle Seats welcomes group, clubs and organizations to do their own tour – all you have to do is call and schedule one up.

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Page 18

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

Rollin Fast Indian Motorcycle of Lebanaon Presents

G RE AT ALL AMER IC AN D INE R R UN

tasty places to take your bike

Van giLdeR’s JuBiLee ResTauRanT 2067 RTE. 940, POCONO PINES PA 18350 570-646-2377 • WWW.POCONOJUBILEE.COM More than a century back the small mountains just west of New Jersey were the place to be. The Poconos, named for Minsi or Munsee Indian word Pokawachne (pronounced Poke Ah Waak-nay), which means “Creek Between Two Hills” was long an area of resorts, getaways and mountain retreats for the affluent and wealthy from Philadelphia and New York.

Most of the old hotels are long gone, but the natural and man created beauty still remains and the Poconos have two distinct sides – the crowded mall-strewn main routes and the hidden beauty of the Pennsylvanian backroads that surround them.

Not far from the river and the Delaware Water Gap you will find Lake Naomi and alongside it an eatery that has been serving travelers, summer guests and locals for generations Van Gilder’s Jubilee Restaurant.

Like most places that have been around for a while the Jubilee has a history.

Back in the day Pocono Pines was a very small summer vacation community and Lake Naomi Club had just formed. The motor lodge consisted of 18 motel rooms, a pool in the rear of the property and a small coffee shop. Originally the Pocono Pines Inn was located on the property. It was one of many old inns in the area where vacationers in the early 1930’s and 40’s came to vacation. Like many places in this region the old inn met its demise with a fire.

In 1968 Harry & Anna Eberhart bought the place and it has stayed in the family since then.

Today, the road along Lake Naomi has gotten a bit busier, but the flavor and friendliness of Van Gilder’s has not waned.

The place has gotten the name the “Breakfast King of the Poconos.”

Who are we to dispute royalty?

We’re pretty good at getting around ‘sprawl’ so we plotted a route from the north, crossing into PA at Dingman’s Bridge and then along Silver Lake Road, past the magnificent waterfalls at Child’s Park and then across the Poconos on Snow Hill Road. Unfortunately this day Snow Hill was blocked, so we did a bit of ad libbin’ to get back onto our route and to the Jubilee. By the time you get there that interesting little cut-through should be back open.

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BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014 Arriving at the restaurant, that also has a large pub attached to it, we took a booth seat and scanned the ample menu.

By this time of the day I was ready for lunch, but others were in search of the King – and we don’t mean Elvis.

With over 35 breakfasts to choose we saw that the King meant business.

We’ll just mention a few, starting with their Breakfast Tostadas – two crisp corn tortillas topped with refried beans, pork carnitas, two scrambled eggs, cheddar Jack cheese, diced onions, tomatoes and then drizzled with chipotle sauce. On the omelette side you can build your own with 10 different meats, 9 cheeses and 9 veggies or go for one of the featured servings which include a Buffalo chicken (self-explanatory), Carolina – which uses BBq pulled pork onions and cheddar, the Irish with corned beef, the Tuscan with pesto, chicken and bruschetta or go for one of what we had - the Philly Cheese Steak omelette – that was very, very tasty.

Pancakes and waffles will be found too with Challah French toast leading the charge followed by a stack of chocolate chip pancakes and fresh grilled bananas called the Funky Monkey – as you might know, we love monkeys.

There are plenty of addons and add-ins for the waffles and pancakes as well.

Van Gilder’s Jubilee Restaurant serves lunch and dinner as well, and since most of us will be dropping by around lunch time let’s talk about that for a bit. Their menu for this is big with appetizers of potato skins, nachos, quesadillas, spring rolls and more. The lodge favorites include crispy honeydipped chicken and home made meatloaf that was the best we have ever had outside Backroads’ kitchen. The Jubilee chicken looked scrumptious too.

Being on a lake they have a good selection of seafood all brought in fresh that day.

What, you thought they got the shrimp and mahi-mahi out of Lake Naomi?

There are ten salads to choose from, many of which will even have a carnivore ordering them.

The Jubilee’s basic burgers are anything but with the Lodge burger featuring their Tennessee whiskey sauce.

We had the wings with this and it was delicious.

Sandwiches, wraps and paninis are well represented as well and the special ‘meatloaf panini’ did the job that day.

The Van Gilder’s Jubilee Restaurant can hold most large groups with their ample seating and the route there is worth every mile.

We’ll start this Rip & Ride from the junction of Routes 206 and 15 (The Chatterbox) in Augusta, New Jersey and along the way you can visit Tillman’s Ravine and a phenomenal waterfall in Pennsylvania’s Childs Park. It’s all good.

Rip & Ride can be found on page 33

Page 19

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Page 20

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

Morton’s BMW Motorcycles Presents Dr. Seymour O’Life’s M YSTE RIOUS AME RICA TRans-aLLegHenY LunaTiC asYLum 71 ASYLUM DRIVE , WESTON, WV 26452 304-269-5070 • TRANS-ALLEGHENYLUNATICASYLUM.COM

“Almost heaven, West Virginia” - John Denver Who, reading these words, has never ridden in the Mountain State of West Virginia and not fallen in love with its roads, people and motorcycle-riding atmosphere? I know I have had a love affair with this state from the first time I rolled into it decades back.

But, even though John Denver sang about its heaven, I am talking about the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum.

This mammoth building, constructed over 28 years – from 1858 to 1881 (held up by the Civil War) – and composed of local hand-hewn blue stone is the largest hand-cut stone masonry building in North America, and the second largest in the world, with only the Kremlin being bigger. To walk all its halls would cover over 3 miles!

There is beautiful detail in the stonework, including several carved faces — called Grotesques - built in to protect the patients from marauding evil spirits by Irish stonemasons. The building is surrounded by a large tree-shaded park, which is enclosed by a wrought iron fence. The central clock tower, some 200 feet tall, is the building’s most striking feature. Rising from the roof of the central administration building, the tower is topped by a long spire. It is a stunning building, if one with a very odd history.

The asylum was designed by the renowned architect Richard Andrews following the Kirkbride plan, which called for long rambling wings arranged in a staggered formation, assuring that each of the connecting structures received an abundance of therapeutic sunlight and fresh air.

How nice. What started as a brilliant idea quickly spiraled downward into the stereotype of what you think a “lunatic asylum” really was.

In my research one of the more interesting things I came upon was the list of ‘Reasons for Admission.’

These alone are shocking and so bizarre that this spooky old place easily slides into Mysterious America. Let me list just a few…

Tobacco & masturbation, bad whiskey, vicious vices, masturbation over 30 years, parents were cousins, time of life, suppressed masturbation (I guess you were damned if you did or dammed if you didn’t), kicked in head by horse, seduction and disappointment (story of my life), carbonic acid gas (the farts?), exposure and quackery (WTF?) and religious enthusiasm.

This odd and dubious list goes on.

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It seems that just about anybody, for any reason, could get tossed into this pit of desolation and despair.

Its name was changed to Weston State Hospital in 1913. Not that it made things much better; in fact it got far worse.

The original hospital, designed to house 250 souls when open to patients in 1864, reached its peak in the 1950’s with 2,400 patients.

Nearly ten times the original number of patients is was designed to care for.

As you would think - from its original plans in the 1800’s to the mid-twentieth century things degraded just a bit.

By 1994 the Weston State Hospital was forced to thankfully close its doors.

Despite being designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1990, the hospital has deteriorated to the point where its very survival is threatened. The entire facility and 300 acres were privately purchased in August of 2007 and the name changed back to the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum from The Weston State Hospital. With the aid of government grants, private donations, fundraising events, and a team of dedicated local volunteers committed to restoring the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum building and grounds to its former stateliness, thus reviving the local economy and preserving an important piece of Mysterious American history.

These days the new owners seek to give it a renaissance of sorts and the ample grounds have been used for fairs and events and is open for those seeking the paranormal.

The Asylum has had apparition sightings, unexplainable voices and sounds, and other paranormal activity reported in the past by guests, staff, SyFy’s Ghost Hunters, Ghost Hunters Academy, the Travel Channel’s Ghost Adventures and Paranormal Challenge. If this hits your fancy you can step back in time and see how the mentally insane lived, and died, within these walls.

Thousands have been committed to the asylum over the years, and hundreds, unfortunately, died here. You can decide for yourself if they’re still occupying the historic wards and treatment rooms if you do an overnight tour of the Asylum, flashlight tours or private tours if you want the building for yourself. You can even spend the night roaming the building undisturbed – or maybe not.

Bring all the equipment that you have, cameras and ectoplasm gauges and investigate your favorite hot spots.

Who you gonna call? O’Life Out!

Page 22

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

greystone Lunatic asylum New Jersey History to be Torn Down

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When Greystone opened in 1876 it was a state of the art Kirkbride design, created by Samuel Sloan and built to handle the overcrowded conditions at other area psychiatric hospitals. Like the Trans–Allegheny Asylum, Greystone also was an architectural wonder, having the largest continuous building foundation ever constructed. It remained this world-record holder till the construction of the Pentagon in the 1940’s.

The inside was once stunning, with the main building’s tiled flooring and exterior marble columns.

But, the once mighty Greystone has been left to seed and will be torn down this fall.

As a lover of fine old and mysterious places I wonder why this is so. It will cost the state of New Jersey some 30 million dollars to tear this place down and yet a number of plans have been offered to rehabilitate the place for other purposes, saving the state all these millions. Some

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of these plans would transform the Greystone property into a “working farm” with a ranch and family retreat, classroom, exhibit, laboratory, campus office or apartment space. Most would include persevering and restoring part of the Greystone site as a tourist destination.

I love the state of New Jersey, but have a problem with them crying poverty and then wasting money of that magnitude on tearing down a great piece of Jersey and American history. It is such a shame to destroy such a magnificent building when it is totally unnecessary.

One hopes that they will at least save the majestic trees that surround the facility – looks to me as if they have been here for a very long time.

A bit of TV trivia – Greystone doubled as the Mayfield Psychiatric Hospital in the House episode ‘Both Sides Now’, where Dr. House is admitted at the show’s end to rehab for his drug habit.

To see more pictures of how fine a building this was and how it turned into a million square-feet ruin log onto: www.kirkbridebuildings.com/buildings/greystonepark O’Life Out!

BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

Page 23

F

rom atop the high road, crossing the Appalachian peaks, the valley was hidden in the morning’s dense fog that stretched the 10 miles or so to the other ridge. It almost looked like an ocean reaching to a nearby shore. With the morning sun striking it from above it looked phenomenal and far too bright for more than a moment’s glance.

The day’s route brought us down through the hairpins and into the fog along a, more or less, straightaway through the corn and soybeans to the other side of the valley before heading back up and out of the fog into the intense sunshine once again.

It was the first morning of the 2014 Backroads Fall Fiesta and the intensity of the day stood in stark contrast to our start just 24 hours earlier.

Fall Fiesta 2014 Who said Pennsylvania was boring? words + images: Brian Rathjen

Page 24

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

Although riders would be coming from Delaware to New Hampshire, our small cadre’ of riders met at the New Jersey / Pennsylvania border in a misty drizzle on that soggy Thursday.

A quick bite to eat and we were on our way across the Delaware River and along some of the smaller roads that we are fond of, heading towards the Susquehanna River.

Before we had left Backroads Central I had taken one last look at the storm that had been heading up the coast.

It’s timing was not fortunate and it was pretty heavy in places as well. Heavy enough to postpone Major League Baseball in Washington the night before but, it seemed to me that, the further west we rode the better our chances were at getting some respite from the wet weather.

On this morning’s ride it seemed that every mile began to matter as the sky was lightening to the west and we went from steady drizzle, to heavy mist, to bothersome spritzing, to just annoying wet roads.

Life was good on our boat as the storm vacated the area - heading northeast and we southwest.

Soon we were deep in coal country and crossing through the burg of Mahanoy City, where both Shira and I got a POI ‘gong’ from our Garmin Zumos.

POI means Point of Interest and we have Roadside America’s program running on both our machines. Roadside America is the premier website for unusual things and oddities along America’s roadways. I spend a lot of time here.

It seems that there was a bronze statue of a Molly Maguire about to be hung to be found along the main road and we found it easily. Behind a wall. Next to the firehouse. Easy.

For those who don’t know of the Molly Maguires, they were a secret society with origins from Ireland. Here in the coal country of Pennsylvania they got involved with the local coal miners and their issues and were accused of murder, arson, kidnapping and other crimes.

The argument of who did what and who was guilty goes on till this very day.

I can only think that this statue and its story deserve to be followed up more diligently than our Fall Fiesta recap and feel a trip with Seymour O’Life might be in order here.

There is also something else here in the Pennsylvanian coal country and we have talked about and visited it a number of times in these pages and that is the ‘once town’ of Centralia.

The coal fire is still burning under the town and the area frequented by kids, urban explorers and dirt bikers is now covered for about a mile with spray painted graffiti.

I would normally frown on this sort of thing (the spray paint), but here in Centralia it just adds to the mystery and quirkiness of the region. For those with us, who had not seen it before, it was jaw dropping.

Our ride was supposed to bring us over the Susquehanna River on the Millersburg ferry, the oldest ferry of its type in the nation, but it was Thursday and the ferry was docked and low water levels from our lack of solid rain would keep it docked for weeks.

We took lunch in Millersburg and then crossed over via a regular road bridge in a regular way. Ho hum. Soon we were back on point heading toward Shippensburg and our host hotel, the Shippen Place.

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BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014 Shippensburg was given its name after Edward Shippen, grandfather of the wife of Benedict Arnold – Peggy Shippen - a woman who, I dare say, with the help of her lover Major Andre’, caused a bit of a problem for her husband and our fledgling nation, by pressuring him (how did she do that?) into committing treason.

After a summer of the Continental spy network running through these pages, this town and its history would work nicely for this rally.

Our run over Waggoners Gap and Route 74 was almost roller coaster at times and by evening we were parked and the bikes began to roll in, filling the parking lot behind the hotel.

That evening the bar was packed with ralliers and college kids, which made for an interesting evening. At the same time our large Jewish contingent (we had a minyan), who realized that there was no better way to end one year and begin another than on a motorcycle trip, was celebrating Rosh Hashanah with all the trimmings and a badly blown shofar. Jewish mothers throughout the land should be proud.

The next day was superb weather-wise and soon we were off in different directions as small groups went out exploring the various routes

Page 25 and suggestions that Backroads put out.

A number of riders decided to head to the Johnstown Flood Museum along a route we had pre-planned weeks before.

I love it when a plan comes together and this ride certainly did and the usual dirt, road closures and mayhem refused to make an appearance this day. Yeah us.

Our ride back was equally enjoyable but in a different way, over Blue Ridge Mountain at Sideling Hill Summit with its wide sweepers, and then through miles of cornfields with perfect pavement laced in between the stalks.

We got back around 5’ish with everyone else, more or less, getting back around that time too.

Some friends went to the Shanksville Flight 93 memorial, which is far different these days than when we first visited it years back. Others enjoyed the local parks and a few intrepid riders took the entire ride to Texas – the lunch stop Shira featured a few months back.

Once again the group made use of the hotel’s bar and outside patio area – the perfect place to relax with an adult beverage or soda pop, after a long day in the saddle.

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Page 26

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

Hearing about a closed road and a detour from riders who had perused her State Park Loop the previous day, Shira had posted a disclaimer, basically denying it all if things went FUBAR and saying, like Sergeant We had dinner at the hotel Shultz, that she “knows nothing!” the first night and had a bufShe needn’t worry as the detours fet set for Saturday so we and dirt were easily managed and the mooched a ride and made gist of her loop was brilliant and our way over to a local more so by the Mr. Blue Skies made eatery that night for an excellent meal.

Day and the phenomenal roads in the region.

With long-range forecasts calling for good stuff we knew that we had She had a few stops set up during the day as well. Like each rally we try clinched another year of great weather for our rallies. to feed you versions of our monthly columns. A great All American Diner Evidentially the Wicken sacrifices worked, and that Saturday we headed Run, a Big City Getaway, We’re Outta Here and Mysterious America. east, riding into the rolling Amish farmlands and state forests that border the Our stop at Mr. Ed’s certainly filled that slot, as this quirky places has more mountains to the west. pachyderms – specifically elephants – than we had ever seen under one roof. Mr. Ed was there too and compar1269 DOLSONTOWN RD ing notes we found that the actual number would vary, MIDDLETOWN NY 10940 depending on what number crossed Mr. Ed’s mind at the time. It ranged from a couple thousand to over 12K. I can safely say the correct adjective here is shitload.

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BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

Shira’s route would lead into Michaux State Forest. Considered Pennsylvania’s “cradle of forestry,” Michaux, named after French botanist Andre Michaux, is the site of the first forestry school, Mont Alto. For us it was miles of fantastic roads, sweepers and scenery.

We came upon the Historic Round Barn.

This incredible Shaker-built barn, built in 1914, is one of just a few surviving and is well worth seeking out.

Created by manpower alone, it used over 250 barrels of cement and has a circumference of 282 feet. The central silo is nearly 6 stories tall. When we were there they were setting up for a wedding. What a place to tie the knot!

This part of Adams County, just west of Gettysburg, is considered a Mecca for apple and pear orchards and the Round Barn Farm Market, on the lower level, was awash with the bounty of fall with bushels of fruit for sale.

Our loop continued around the region and by lunch we made a stop at Pine Grove Furnace Store and the Appalachian Trail Museum.

Pine Grove Furnace State Park marks the midway point along the Appalachian Trail.

Obeying tradition, hikers eat a half-gallon of ice cream here.

This day we had a nice picnic with local cheese, fruit and fudge we had bought along the day’s ride.

Page 27

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NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

The museum, opened in 2011, is really fascinating and although I could never see myself walking further than to my motorcycle I found the stories and tales of the hikers and the trail itself to be inspiring; especially Ziggy and The Geek, a man and a cat (male tabby like our Spenser) and their travels.

“He (the Geek – Greg Kurr) was stuck in Manchester, Ohio, when the remnants of Hurricane Hugo forced him to paddle his canoe to shore and ride out the storm. While he was there, a farmer offered him a kitten from a litter of Tabby/Manx kittens. The rest was history. The tiny kitten enjoyed the travels and made himself useful by being a great mouser. Mice are the bane of trail shelters, but Ziggy made sure Kurr was not troubled by rodents. Kurr said Ziggy was so good at catching mice that the kitten had reached 14 pounds by the time the trip was finished. In 10 months Ziggy had gone 5,100 miles, through 25 states.”

The park also has a more mysterious past, being a big part of the war effort during World War II. In 1943, the U.S. Army converted the CCC facility for use as a secret interrogation camp for enemy German and Japanese prisoners of war, one of only three such sites in the country.

The rest of the loop split its time between forests and farms, with passing Amish buggies becoming a regular part of the ride.

We rode through miles of apple orchards and the air was full of appley aroma. By mid-afternoon we were heading back towards Shippensburg and it was right about that time that Shira radioed over and asked if our group would mind a little side trip.

I know her – she was on a mission.

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Page 29

Riding to the north we came into Shippensburg from the other side and to Goose Brother’s Ice cream – yet another stop on Shira’s popular ice cream runs. All was good until my Cookie Monster ice cream came in Cookie Monster blue.

Blue ice cream? Feh. The Goose Brothers are known for their colorful offerings.

Back at the Shippen Place bikes were returning sporadically from day trips to Johnstown, up to lunch far north near Lock Haven, as well as the Road Kill Café’ brought to our attention by road maven and former STMC president Joe Niemech. Others rode to Gettysburg and still others just went out exploring what this great part of Pennsylvania has to offer today’s riders.

In fact more than one person came up to Shira or me and said that they were amazed at how great and diversified the riding was in south central PA. We agree.

That evening we had nearly one hundred folks join us for an excellent buffet dinner, which the hotel’s restaurant – The University Grille - did a superb job with.

Unlike the insurrection of last year’s event we had nothing but smiles all around with riding groups of friends, both old and new, scattered through the three dining rooms.

Like I said – Life was good on our boat.

The next morning saw the umpteenth time that riders were hugging each other goodbye, with promises of getting together and riding again soon.

We always hope that happens and it often has.

We do know we have been doing these rallies for a while now and we had a number of new faces join us this year, as well as old friendly and familiar riders and machines rolling along with us to Virginia this past spring, Vermont this summer and here in Pennsylvania in early Autumn.

So many times I have chatted with a rider and they have said something along the lines of “Yeah, I always say I am coming on one of your Backroads rallies, but I never seem to get there.”

Don’t be that rider. 2015 will bring a new season and some new Backroads’ Rallies. Please join us.

As a friend of ours would say… ‘It is all good.’

Page 30

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

KawasaKi NiNja 1000 aBs • Sport-tourIng wIth a capItal S words – Brian Rathjen I have always been a Kawboy. It started back with a 1974 S3 two-stroke that promptly blew up on a Cross Bay evening, followed by a ‘73 Z-1 that hung around with me for years, as did my ‘86 Ninja 600. Since then I have put 100K+ on my Concours and there is still my trusty KLR hanging in the back of the barn saying, “Take me, take me…” each time I peek my head in.

Although some might think I am a BMW guy these days, being brought to the Dark Side by dual-sport GS machines, I still enjoy something a bit more sporty from time to time and like to ride back to my roots.

When Kawasaki offered up the new Ninja 1000 with a set of the optional bags I went looking for my old Kawboy hat.

Our 2014 machine arrived in early September, just days before the introduction of the 2015 version, but no matter as we don’t think there is much revision in the upcoming year – besides color.

The machine itself is a stunner styling-wise with a sleek wrap-around look.

Kawasaki looked to their pure sports machines when it came time to create this on the drawing pad, or computer. Our machine, with its bright green paint job, always garnered looks whenever we parked it or got caught up in traffic.

Aiming at today’s sport rider looking for a machine that can easily handle a long week or two on the road it has a fairly upright riding position and a three-way adjustable windscreen to help manage the air around the rider. The pegs are a tad lower as well allowing for a bit more room for larger riders.

I stand 6-foot and daylong rides were not a problem.

Our machine had the optional color-matched 29-liter saddlebags; making overnights a bit easier ($1,270). There is a top case that is also an option; however, it won’t work in conjunction with the side bags. Kawasaki offers other accessories as well; and there is always the after-market.

The chain-driven Ninja 1000 is powered by 1043cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled, 16-valve engine that now sports revised intake cams for more low to midrange torque – useful horsepower. Re-designed air box vents, with a new non-woven air filter, increases airflow to the four 38mm Keihin downdraft throttle bodies on the 2014 Ninja 1000 ABS and combine for better high-end performance.

The six-speed transmission and the clutch are incredibly slick and the tranny has a new taller 6th gear for lower RPMs at highway or ludicrous speeds.

Also spot on is Kawasaki’s fuel injection system that is very responsive without be annoyingly abrupt and twitchy.

The Ninja 1000 has two power-modes low and full as well as well as KTRC Traction Control System.

The first two KTRC modes allow for more traction during acceleration and a third, low-traction setting is calibrated for rain and slippery conditions much like the Concours 14. The handle bar mounted switch allows the rider to turn off the KTRC as well. The two power-modes are very apparent, especially at start out and lower speeds.

We have always thought that there is such a thing as useless horsepower.

Sometimes less is more. Like Top Gear’s Stig going slower at some places yet turning a better lap time. This offers the rider a few different options as well as directly affecting the feel of the Ninja 1000.

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BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

Years ago I had my go-faster ego removed, so I had fun with the different settings; settling into Low - #2 KTRC when in and around the towns and full on power when the roads opened up.

It all can be controlled on the fly – and worked brilliantly.

At the back end of the bike is a stunningly-styled 4-into-2-into-2 catalyzerequipped exhaust that still, although offering a throaty growl, passes muster as far as Backroads’ etched in stone stealth factor is concerned.

Holding all the speed and beauty together in an advanced aluminum frame similar to the ZX-10Rs. The Ninja 1000 utilizes a 41mm inverted fork in the front and a preload and rebound adjustable shock in the rear. Stopping power is found with the Abs equipped “monoblock” calipers up front squeezing 300mm petal-type rotors offering incredible feel and feedback, as does the rear unit, offering gobs of confidence.

I have found this out a number of times, especially at dusk with the legions of Bambi that patrol this area each night.

Speaking of nighttime riding, the headlight works extremely well, throwing

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Page 31 a good deal of sunlight down the road on the darkest of nights.

As I mentioned the Ninja 1000 has a more “natural” riding point, with a far more upright seating position and peg location than some more hard core sport machines, yet it still offers that true sport flavor and feel.

With its relatively lightweight of 509 pounds and with a 32.3 seat height make it a day-to-day ride for most motorcyclists.

On the road I appreciated the crisp powerful engine and made good use of the different power-modes depending on the riding situation.

Like most stock seat, this one needs an upgrade, but it wasn’t a deal breaker.

I really liked the idea of being able to change to power modes on the fly, allowing for a Jekyll / Hyde change to come over the Ninja at the touch of a button. The five-gallon tank easily allow for 175+ miles romps between fuel stops and the three-stage windscreen offers good, but not great protection for the rider.

All this combines into one very sweet sport-tourer with the emphasis on sport.

The Kawasaki Ninja 1000 could be the perfect machine for a rider who wants the best of both worlds. This Ninja offers the looks, power and handling of a true sportbike with the comfortability, easy-going position and available luggage of a larger sport-tourer machine.

Think of it as your teenage kids dream bike …with a touch of grey and some sensibility.

The Kawasaki Ninja 1000 comes in Candy Lime Green or Candy Cascade Blue and lists for $11,999. New colors for 2015 include Candy Lime Green / Metallic Spark Black and Metallic Carbon Gray / Metallic Spark Black.

www.kawasaki.com

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NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

kawasaki ninJa 300 speCiaL ediTion When we received our tester Ninja 1000 its little brother came along for the ride.

The machine is the natural progression from Kawasaki venerable Ninja 250 and a direct response to Honda’s 250R street machine.

Coming off the Ninja 1000, directly on to the 300 the first, the most obvious thing that strikes you is, “Wow, this bike is tiny!”

And, it is - weighing just 380 pounds and with a seat height of just 30.9 inches it is a slim, good-looking package; our machine coming in a very sexy Pearl Stardust White with Ebony with Special Edition Graphics.

Really sweet.

The Ninja 300 is powered by a longstroke 296cc liquid cooled twin cylinder engine running a slick 6-speed transmission and slipper-style clutch – which you will use often.

This machine is not a high-mileage ride, and cross-country tours or the Iron Butt is not a sane option, but it is an excellent machine for the newcomer or local in town commuter.

With a whopping 68 miles to the gallon it is a miser when it comes to sipping fuel.

Combine this with the 4.5-gallon fuel cell and the math says

around 300 miles per tank full when ridden responsible (re: boringly).

Despite its size and displacement this Ninja 300 is anything but boring.

If you do use it as a local commuter you will have that grin on your face till lunchtime.

The machine is equipped with a 290mm petal-type rotor with a twin-piston caliper up front and a 220mm with the same caliper on the rear allowing for superior and well-balanced braking on this tiny sportbike.

Our first thought was to do a few overnight tours with the Ninja 1000 carrying the gear, but it was fairly apparent that romps into the Adirondacks or down the Maryland shore with the 300 wasn’t going to happen; at least with me. Shira, who is half my size, was far more comfortable on the Ninja 300 – and thought it an excellent machine for its displacement and size.

The 300’s power is fine for around town, despite the fact that the first gear is useless, having some gusto once it gets rolling all the way up to its 13,000 rpm redline.

It isn’t till further up the tachometer before the little Ninja gets into its own. Even with my bulky bulk the machine handled smartly and the more miles I put on the more I was enjoying the 300.

The Kawasaki Ninja 300 comes in four different versions – Standard, ABS SE and SE ABS, all for somewhere in the vicinity of a little over $5 grand.

If you are in the market for a first bike, or looking for a peppy little ride for commuting around town and short day trips then this diminutive Ninja could be your ticket to a whole lot of good times.

BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

Page 33

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Page 34

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

POLAR BEAR GRAND TOUR 2014-15 It is not necessary to be a member of the Polar Bear Grand Tour to do these rides. There is generally food at the destination and if you just want to go for a nice ride and join other folks feel free to attend. To check on Polar Bear cancellations & updates call A.M.A. Dis. #2 @ 908722-0128. Sign-in is from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm unless otherwise posted.

General information about the Polar Bear Grand Tour and general directions to the locations: polarbeargrandtour.com

NOVEMBER 2014 2 • IRISH EYES PUB, 213 Angler’s Rd., Lewes, DE 19958 • 302-645-6888 • www.irisheyespub.com 9 • MOLLY DARCY PUB, 39 Mill Plain Road, Danbury, CT 06811 • 203-794-0449 • danbury.mollydarcy.com 16 • BARNSIDER TAVERN, 1372 Kings Highway, Sugar Loaf, NY 10918 • 845-469-9810 • www.barnsider.net November 23, 2014 23 • HILLBILLY HALL, 203 Hopewell-Wertsville Rd, Hopewell, NJ 08525 • 609-466-9856 • hillbillyhall.com 30 • APPALACHIAN BREWING CO., 50 West 3rd Ave., Collegeville, PA 19426 • 484-9736064 • www.abcbrew.com/brewpubs/collegeville

DECEMBER 2014 7 • MONTGOMERYVILLE CYCLE, 2901 Bethlehem Pike Hatfield, PA 19440 • 215-712-7433 • www.montgomeryvillecc.com 14 • THE CABIN, 984 Route #33 Howell, NJ 07731 • 732 462-3090.

On Rt. 33 in Howell Twp. Approx. 5 miles west of Rt. #34 (east of Freehold, NJ).

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JANUARY 2015 4 • De THOMASI’s EAST 5 POINTS INN, 580 Tuckahoe Rd & Landis Ave., Vineland, NJ 08360 • 856-691-6080 • www.fivepointsinn.com 11 • UPSTREAM GRILLE, 161 Rte. 181, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849 • 973-663-2222 • www.upstreamgrille.com 18 • LAGO, 230 Washington Place, North Brunswick TWP, NJ. 08902 • 732 297-3803 • www.LagoNJ.com 25 • THE EXCHANGE, 160 E. Main St., Rockaway, NJ 07866 • 973-627-8488 • www.exchangefood.com

FEBRUARY 2015 1 • THE FRANKLIN HOUSE TAVERN, 101 North Market Street, Schaefferstown, PA 17088 • 717 949-2122 • franklinhousetavern.com February 8, 2015 8 • PIC-A-LILLI INN 866 Route 206 Shamong NJ 08088 • 609 268-2066 • picalilli.com 15 • HOOTERS, 25 Rte 23 South, Wayne, NJ 07470 • 973-837-1876 • www.hootersnj.com 22 • BAHRS LANDING, 2 Bay Ave., Highlands, NJ 07732 • 732-872-1245 • www.bahrs.com

MARCH 2015 1 • FIREHOUSE EATERY, 455 Saint Georges Ave. Rahway, NJ 07065 • 732 382-9500 • www.firehouseeatery.com 8 • LONG VALLEY PUB & BREWERY, 1 Fairmount Rd., Long Valley, NJ 07853 • 908-8761122 • www.restaurantvillageatlongvalley.com 15 • THE CHATTERBOX, #1 Rte 15 South, Augusta, NJ 07822 • 973-300-2300 • www.chatterboxdrivein.com 22 • BRIAN’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON, 600 S. Flowers Mill Rd., Langhorne PA 19047 • 215 7529400 • www.brianshd.com 29 • THE HICKORY BBQ SMOKEHOUSE, 743 Route 28, Kingston, NY 12401 • 845-3382424 • www.hickoryrestaurant.com

APRIL 2015 12 • CHEEBURGER CHEEBURGER 336 Northampton St., Easton, PA 18042 • 610-438-1311 • www.cheeburger.com/pennsylvania 19 • CAPE MAY V.F.W. post #386, N.J. 419 Congress St., Cape May, N.J. 08204 • 609-8847961

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25 • END OF THE SEASON GET-TOGETHER - At The Pic-a-Lilli Inn, starting @ 11:30 AM. The rain date would be April 26, 2015; same time. Cost to Members: $6.00 per person. There will be salad, Wings, Beef, rolls, and lemonade, plus a cash bar. You must get an arm band from your flight leader.

PLEASE SEND UPCOMING EVENT INFORMATION AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE FOR MAXIMUM EXPOSURE. Use form on website for correct format www.backroadsusa.com/events.html email: editor@backroadsusa.com • fax: 973-948-0823

BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

Page 35

PRODuCT REVIEW

SARGENT CYCLE PRODUCTS KAWASAKI KLR 650 WORLD ADVENTURE TOURING SEAT The World Adventure Touring Seat felt solid from the start all the way to the finish. And, that is what you are really looking for in a replacement saddle for your machine.

The seat is available in two seat heights - regular and low and is offered with CarbonFX vinyl seating inserts. Heating is also an option.

You will find the KLR 650 World Adventure Touring Seat, which lists for $389.95, at Sargent dealers or on the web at www.sargentcycle.com.

We have been a big fan of the KLR for years now and with the newer style of KLR coming out we were happy to get one into our extended family of machines.

There have been a number of great upgrades to the new KLRs – suspension, brakes, engine components and body work.

One thing that Kawasaki did not change much was the saddle.

Enter Sargent Cycle Products. They have been creating comfortable and stylish aftermarket saddles for so many motorcycles for years.

In the past we have ridden them on our various machines including the Ducati Monster, BMWs R1200GS and F650 GS, Honda’s 919 and many others.

We have found there saddles to be well constructed, durable for thousands of miles and, most importantly, comfortable all day long.

The secret to Sargent’s success is this - the “Advanced Theory Of Maximum Integrated Comfort.” Its purpose is to help explain the various causes of riding discomfort, define limitations, and recommend possible solutions.

According to the ATOMIC Theory, three major factors contribute to the level of comfort that can be obtained on any given motorcycle: Forced ergonomic position, size and shape of the seating platform and type of padding suspension.

With this in mind Sargent utilizes Super Cell Atomic Foam is their-own unique and proprietary blend of resilience, firmness, and vibration-absorption qualities; making it well suited for maximum long distance comfort. Its high-tech construction permanently traps air inside each cell, giving it a dynamic, spring-like suspension quality.

We think of it as Buttilicious.

The KLR saddle was smartly offset with a white welt and installation was just as easy as the stock unit, taking a few minutes with a KLR, as the seat actually bolts to the frame. They use their own lightweight PolyTec seat pan, and all the Sargent seat hardware was perfectly fitted to the millimeter.

On the road the saddle felt great, but the important thing is that the tightness, fatigue and low-grade pain in the butt and upper thighs, that usually appears after a long day’s ride, never happens with the Sargent Seat.

I have tested saddles that gave instant gratification and felt “divine” from the second I got on them only to get less and less divine, morphing into hellish as the day rode on.

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Page 36

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

U P C O MIN G E VE NTS C A LENDAR 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 Wednesday • Chelseas Restaurant/Pub, 1051 Rte. 22 East, Lebanon, NJ 6-9pm, weather permitting all summer • www.chelseasrestaurantpub.com

NOVEMBER 2014 8 • Bergen County Harley-Davidson Military Appreciation Day. Noon-5 with free food, giveaways, vendors and much more. 124 Essex St, Rochelle Park NJ. 201-843-6930 • www.bergenharleydavidson.com 9 • Liberty Harley-Davidson HOG Chapter Toy Run 2014. 12 W Milton Ave, Rahway, NJ • 732-381-2400 • www.libertyharley.com for more details 11 • Long Branch Harley-Davidson and Rolling Thunder NJ Chap. 2 7th Annual Veterans Day Run & Day Long Celebration. Sign in: 9-10 @ HDLB, 671 Broadway, Long Branch, NJ. KSU 10:15 • $10 donation (more celebrated) to benefit Veterans Children’s Scholarship Fund. End Service @ Vietnam Veterans Memorial, PNC Arts Center, Holmdel, NJ. Join after: MJ’s, 3205 Rte. 66, Neptunr, NJ • 1-4 • music, door prizes, 50/50, tailgate party. 732-229-8518 • www.HDLongBranch.com 29 • Cross Country Powersports Fall Open House. Watch our webpage and Facebook for more details. 911 Middlesex Ave, Metuchen, NJ • 732-906-9292 • www.crosscountrypowersports.com

DECEMBER 2014 1-April 1 • Bob’s BMW Polar Bear Challenge. Sign up in person @ Bob’s, 10720 Guilford Rd, Jessup, MD. Monthly winners (male and female) and two Grand Prize winners. For more info call 301-497-8949 • www.bobsbmw.com 12-14 • Progressive International Motorcycle Show comes to Jacob Javits Center in New York City. Advance tickets now available online @ www.motorcycleshows.com.

Get discounted tickets with promo code backroads15. Visit the Backroads booth for the latest issue and surprise guests.

What’s Happening Pulko, Rene Cormier, Allan Karl, Lisa & Simon Thomas and Lois onthe Loose Price.

Hear their travel stories. Plus see all the new bikes, antique & custom bike competition, shop hundreds of exhibits covering everything in motorcycling, seminars, fashion show, etc • www.cycleshow.net

MARCH 2015 6-15 • Daytona Bike Week, FL • www.daytonachamber.com/bikeweek/ce/

JUNE 2015 1-6 • Americade, world's largest multi-brand motorcycle touring rally, attracting over 100,000 annually. Come for the day or for the week to the "Best Riding Event in the U.S." with the most factory demos, a massive motorcycle expo, lots of incredible motorcycle events and more amazing rides than any other event in the country. Events include guided and unguided rides, poker runs, scavenger hunt, trade show, bike shows, vendors, entertainment, and more • 518-798-7888 • www.americade.com 13-21 • Laconia Motorcycle Week – the original riding rally. All of the attractions that you can imagine, attracting the best custom bike builders and their creations. Events and attractions are going on everywhere, but the place to be at night is Weirs Beach • 603-366-2000 • www.laconiamcweek.com 13-28 • BACKROADS TURNS 20. Come along as we celebrate 20 years of motorcycle, travel and adventure with Adriatic MotoTours’ Romania to Istanbul Adventure. For more details visit www.adriaticmototours.com or call 973-948-4176.

25-28 • Johnstown Thunder in the Valley, Johnstown, PA • 800-237-8590 • www.visitjohnstownpa.com/thunderinthevalley

JULY 2015 23-25 • 43rd BMW MOA International Rally, MetraPark, Billings Montana • www.bmwmoa.org Watch calendar and website for new events and upcoming 2015 Backroads Rally announcements. Follow us on Facebook for up-to-the-minute information: www.facebook.com/pages/Backroads-Motorcycle-Touring-Magazine

JANUARY 2015 9-11 • Progressive International Motorcycle Show comes to Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC. Advance tickets now available online @ www.motorcycleshows.com. Get discounted tickets with promo code backroads15.

FEBRUARY 2015 6-8 • Timonium Motorcycle Show, Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Rd, Timonium, MD. Adults $17; 10-15: $5; under 10 free. Featuring a NEW travel, touring and adventure area - prepare to spend some time and meet world travelers like Benka

PLEASE SEND UPCOMING EVENT INFORMATION AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE FOR MAXIMUM EXPOSURE. Use form on website for correct format www.backroadsusa.com/events.html email: editor@backroadsusa.com • fax: 973-948-0823

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way down to oriental Istanbul and the scenic Black Sea Coast, there is something for the sightseer in everyone. Riding two of Europe’s best roads - the majestic Carpathian Mountains’ Transfagarasan Road and the equally challenging Transalpina - and then snaking through the astonishing Rodophe Mountains and Greece all the way to Turkey.

June 13-28, 2015

Tour starts/ends: Bucharest, Romania • www.adriaticmototours.com

CALL/EMAIL TODAY • SPACE IS LIMITED

Page 38

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

CaYuga CReameRY 8421 ROUTE 89, INTERLAKEN NY 607-532-9492 • WWW.CAYUGALAKECREAMERY.COM For so many years, we have made it a habit of attending the Finger Lakes BMW Rally at Watkins Glen State Park, at the bottom of Seneca Lake, one of the prettiest of the Finger Lakes. It’s a pleasant little rally, attracting upwards of 700 like-minded, mostly BMW riders who mostly camp (you all know how I feel about that), ride the felicific byways intertwining these picturesque bodies of water, then sit around camarading with a glass of the local grape or brew.

This year we had the pleasure of sharing our long Labor Day weekend with our friends Ami and Jim, of Beemer Boneyard repute. We had one picture-perfect day of riding and one with some liquid sunshine, but that wouldn’t stop us from making the best of it and finding a dairy destination that had been recommended from friends and websites, the Cayuga Creamery on Cayuga Lake. During our daily rides, I had spied a number of ice cream joints advertising wine ice cream and sorbets, which would be a no-brainer in this neck of the woods. I had heard that Cayuga had, by far, the best around. How could I pass this by?

Heading south on Route 89, on this overcast Sunday of Labor Day weekend, we pulled into the small gravel parking lot not long after finishing our lunch stop. I explained that, while I certainly had no room for ice cream, it was my professional duty to take pictures and do a small sampling to report back to my peeps. Pulling up right in front of the very extensive menu board, I could immediately see that this might be a problem, as there were far too many flavors beckoning my taste buds to give them a try. Having some willing tasters along helped my plight, as Ami volunteered for some Honey Vanilla and Brian opted for his ice cream litmus flavor test, Cookies and Cream. I was drawn to both the Roasted Garlic and No Doze, mocha ice cream with embedded chocolate covered coffee beans. Knowing that my sugar rush might not last me all the way back to Seneca Lodge, I thought the caffeine might kick in and help. Just to give you a short sample of their flavor board, here are some of the rotating homemade goodies: Banoreo (banana ice cream with Oreos), Chilifest Chocolate (chocolate ice cream

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Page 39

with chili powder), Cinn-ful (cinnamon ice cream with pralines and a caramel swirl), German Chocolate (German chocolate ice cream with German chocolate chunks, coconut and pecan pieces), Ginger Snap (Premium ice cream made by juicing fresh ginger root and adding pieces of ginger snap cookies), Jalapeno Popper (cream cheese flavored ice cream with pureed jalapeno peppers and raspberry habanero pepper sauce swirl), Maple Bacon (maple ice cream and caramelized bacon), Nutty Nut Brown Ale (Nut Brown Ale ice cream with honey roasted peanuts) and an assortment of wine sorbets made from many of the local wineries pressings.

Cayuga Creamery ice creams start with a 14% butterfat mix from their dairy, Upstate Farms, and then add the finest ingredients available, both locally and from around the world. To keep up with ever-changing dietary restrictions, they offer gluten free, soy-based, no sugar added, fat free and creamy soft-serve custards. And just to make even our four legged friends welcome, there is a clear and cool fresh water bowl available for lapping and ice cream with dog bone topping.

For your sitting pleasure, they offer a small indoor area as well as benches and child (young and old) entertainment around back.

Back to our personal tastings; Ami’s Honey Vanilla was quite creamy, though she felt the vanilla was more prominent than the honey, but still delicious. Brian’s Cookies and Cream satisfied his taste test, with large chunks of Oreo cookie. While both Ami and Brian could definitely taste the garlic in my ice cream, I could not but the texture was pure bliss. Without a doubt, the No Doze was over the top superb, as the mocha ice cream had a good strong

coffee taste and the chocolate covered coffee beans brought me back to my childhood when I used to grab handfuls from the bowl in my grandmother’s house. Yes, I know I was drawn to this spot by their wine ice cream offerings, but that will just have to wait until my next visit to these beautiful Finger Lakes, which can not be too soon in my opinion.

Cayuga Creamery is open all year (yeah!) with varying hours, so please check before heading out for your sample of some of the finest ice cream you’ll find.

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©2014 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. Offers valid in U.S.A. only from August 1, 2014 to October 31, 2014. See an authorized BRP dealer for details. The conditions may vary from state to state and these offers are subject to termination or change at any time without notice. *Rebates up to $2,500 on select models. Rebate applicable to new and unused 2012 to 2014 Can-Am ATVs and Can-Am side-by-side vehicles. Rebate amount depends on the model and model year purchased. Dealer may sell for less. While quantities last. See a participating BRP dealer for details. Some models depicted may include optional equipment. BRP highly recommends that all ATV drivers take a training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety, always wear a helmet, eye protection, and other protective clothing.

Never carry passengers on any ATV not specifically designed by the manufacturer for such use. All adult model Can Am ATVs are Category G ATVs (General Use Models) intended for recreational and/or utility use by an operator age 16 or older. For side-by-side vehicles (SXS); Read the BRP side-by-side Operator’s Guide and watch the Safety DVD before driving. For your safety, wear a helmet, eye protection and other protective gear. Fasten lateral net and seat belt at all times. Operator must be at least 16 years old. Passenger must be at least 12 years old and able to hold handgrips and plant feet while seated against backrest. ATVs and SXS are for off-road use only; never ride on paved surfaces or public roads.

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Page 40

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

PRODUCT REVIEW

GARMIN ZUMO 590LM GPS

The latest offering for motorcyclists from Olathe, Kansas is the Garmin zumo 590LM GPS. Last year the new 390 seemed to be heading in the right direction, but lacked some extra bells and whistles. The new Garmin zumo 590LM GPS has addressed those issues in a big way and then taken the new GPS even further.

First off the unit is ruggedly built, with a design that is resistant to fuel sprays, UV rays and harsh weather (water rating: IPX7).

The zumo is made to withstand life on the road. The device is powered by a removable battery, and in addition to a motorcycle mount, zumo 590LM includes an automotive mount and power cable for use in a car.

The screen is larger than our previous 665 – a full 5-inch touch screen that is very bright and readable – even on the sunniest days. I never felt the need for a shade and switching back to the zumo 665 the difference was noticeable.

If wanted, the new 590 has dual-orientation for riders who prefer a vertical look (longer and more of the route) to a horizontal view (wider).

It also allows for a new rider interface using a highsensitivity, glove-friendly display for entering and acquiring information. It keeps the driving map onscreen at all times and displays additional information in slide-in windows, such as points of interest along the route and music.

I found this to be a real benefit on longer rides with my iPhone streaming music and offering thousands of tunes at my fingertips.

The zumo 590LM GPS also has a micro-SD card for

music and info storage and a Pandora app as well.

Using the Garmin Smartphone Link app you can access live weather radar and traffic info.

There’s a Round Trip program and one for Curvy Roads – which can be used together if you are just looking for an interesting ride.

Most of the time, I wish to run my own route, but this feature gave us a number of interesting rides and turned us onto a bunch of roads I would have overlooked in the past. Most excellent.

The LM in this unit’s name stands for “lifetime maps.” Garmin is constantly updating its maps and you can always upgrade to the latest version for free, included in purchase price.

The zumo 590LM GPS works seamlessly with Garmin Base Camp program, but our unit did have a problem with just staying or getting back to my route if I headed in another direction (restaurant, fuel, etc.) and then wanted to simply continue on the route.

More than a few times I had to go waypoint to waypoint, looking for the next marker on my route, just to keep the route going correctly.

Not what I want to do when piloting a motorcycle.

In my mind my pre-planned Base Camp Route should have priority once loaded. This didn’t seem to be the case as the 590 likes to recalculate, even when that automatic feature is turned off.

The 665 simply asked if I wanted to start from the beginning or not. I’d say no and ride to the highlighted route. Easy peasy!

On the other hand the 590 made me jump through hoops and it was a major issue with this otherwise superb unit until I got use to the way it thinks.

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Page 41 I also had the sound turn off a number of times only to have it turn back on miles down the road, another issue to deal with.

Ours was an early production unit and we replaced it with one off the shelf and this worked brilliantly.

While I am bringing up the few issues I had with the new Garmin zumo 590LM GPS I must say I had a hard time listening to ‘Samantha’ the American English voice prompt. She reminded me of a slightly condescending kindergarten teacher. On the other hand our zumo 665 had a hot female Australian voice that sounded just like Claire from LOST. That always worked for me.

After a month I began to really resent Samantha and her prissy tone. Garmin needs to make some more offerings standard.

The wiring harness has three jacks, one each for music, phone and sound system interface and hooking it into my Autocom system was a breeze.

My iPhone Bluetoothed seamlessly and making and receiving cell calls was easy and clear. In fact the Bluetooth on the the Garmin zumo 590LM GPS worked better than just about any other Bluetooth we have used motorcycle-wise.

It was refreshingly easy.

Also, the music itself on the zumo 590LM was outstanding and seemed, at least to me, to be clearer, more powerful and all-around better sounding than previous units.

Some other ‘bells & whistles’ that Garmin offers is their Tire Pressure Monitor System3 and the Garmin VIRB action camera4. Both easily interface right on the screen.

We did not test the camera, but being able to monitor the tire pressure was awesome. This is done by simply replacing the valve stem caps with the Garmin TPMS sensors, setting the sensors up and pressing a button.

I have a new appreciation for correct tire pressure now and this allowed me to experiment a bit with handling and wear characteristics.

Very, very cool.

The new 590 also comes with a Service History Log, which can come in handy down the road when service is wanted or needed. It’s always nice to know when you did what to your machine.

The bottom line, after a few months and a few tours down the road, is the Garmin zumo 590LM GPS is a great GPS. As with all higher-end GPS’ it is a serious investment – like $800 – and the tire pressure monitors and camera are extra as are some of the services.

But, with Garmin, you get what you pay for and in this case you get a very durable, intelligent, easy to use (most of the time) and stylish GPS that will give you years of faithful service.

If Santa or your significant other really loved you – you’d find one under the tree or menorah in December.

You can find the new Garmin zumo 590LM GPS at Garmin retailer or log onto garmin.com for more information. ~ Brian Rathjen

Page 42

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

TOURATECH ZUMO 590LM LOCKING HANDLEBAR MOUNT The zumo series of GPS units from Garmin are pricey. Very pricey. For sure you get what you pay for and when you make an investment on a piece of electronic gear such as this you want to protect it from odd happenings – like it popping off your ride after hitting that pothole and jettisoning down the road in a trail of crushed GPS parts or having some miscreant lift it off your bike while you are parked for lunch somewhere.

The standard cradle that comes with all the modern zumo units works easily enough but is not lockable and has been known to occasionally fail with dire results. Gravity sucks sometimes.

As far as thievery goes your zumo can be gone in an instant – unless you have it locked in with one of Touratech’s Locking Mounts.

We have used these German-crafted mounts for a number of years with the 600 and 665 series and they are, with the heavy price of the GPS itself, a great investment. With our road testing of the new zumo 590 in the standard cradle we were constantly removing the unit and stashing it away each and every time we got off the bike. We knew that Touratech would have something offered quickly, and they have.

Not only does the new Touratech zumo 590LM Locking Handlebar Mount lock your GPS in securely it also helps isolate the unit from pesky vibration.

The mount works in conjunction with Garmin’s plastic power cradle, which sits se-

curely inside the stainless steel and anodized aluminum body, which comes in black or silver anodized finishes.

Although designed to mount to 1/2 inch cross bar or Touratech GPS Mount adapter it can also be adapted to any motorcycle with RAM mount system – which is what we did in minutes.

With this mount you can view the 590 in portrait or landscape mode.

The keyed unit works easily with a two-button push and can be keyed to match other locking Touratech items such as luggage.

Installation took about a half an hour, with the standard mount and power leads seamlessly attaching to the Touratech mount and the RAM ball doing the same.

Operation is a breeze with the zumo 590LM popping as it regularly does into the Garmin mount and then the Touratech’s aluminum body closing about the GPS, holding it safely and securely.

If you have made the investment in a new zumo – regardless of model, then strongly consider this extra bit of protection -$185 from Touratech-usa.com.

BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

Page 43

PRODuCT SPOTLIGHTS Altrider HemispHere sAddlebAg Holster system This holster-only option of the AltRider Hemisphere Saddlebag adds extreme versatility to your dual-sport or adventure bike. The holster features 2 main pockets designed to carry larger items — dry-bags, firewood, groceries or whatever else you need to haul. Separate stash pockets are great for tools, extra inner tubes, a tire pump or even a 1.5 liter fuel bottle. This design keeps the weight of a heavy tool pouch or fuel bottle lower to the ground — significantly improving balance and handling of the bike. 2 upper nylon straps with metal camlock buckles allow you to secure extra items to the top such as a tent or extra dry-bag.

The AltRider Hemisphere Saddlebag Holster utilizes a rack-free design that was created with dual-sport machines in mind – bikes like the Honda XR & CRF, Suzuki DR, Yamaha WR, Husky TE, and KTM EXC. The universal design will fit any dirt bike and is also compatible with many adventure motorcycles. The Holster mounts with ballistic nylon webbing straps for a full strength connection to the bike, allowing worry-free exploration of wherever your adventure takes you. Metal cam-lock buckles on the straps prevent any movement of the kit — regardless of riding conditions. Reflective logos allow high visibility for increased safety in low-light or night riding. $189.97 from aLTRider.com

sHAd sH36 side CAses

SHAD is proud to announce the launch of the new and exclusive SHAD SH36 Side Cases. Featuring a highly aerodynamic design, maximum storage capacity and, a highly unique and new patented mounting system, SHAD proves its capacity to lead with innovation. Current applications include side bag mounts for Yamaha FZ07, FZ09 and FZ6r; Honda NC700, CTX700, CB500F/R, CB500X and CBR650F; Suzuki ’14 Vstrom 1000 and 650/1250 Bandits; BMW F800S/R and Triumph Tiger 800. Models in development include Suzuki Vstrom 650, BMW F800ST, Kawasaki Versys 650, Honda VFR800. Storage Capacity is one of the features that make this new side case absolutely unique; despite its compact design, SHAD has optimized the volume maximizing space and, enough so to fit a XXL Full Face Helmet.

From the early phase of product design and conception, engineers and designers at SHAD have sought to combine performance and functionality. Keeping this in mind, they developed a totally new and different side case SH36 shows a remarkable aerodynamic shape, increasing the bike’s security and stability. It also features exclusive details like the new reflector, resistant to the elements including dust and humidity, thanks to the use of new and improved materials.

SH36 features different colors and finishes –white, black, new titanium, dark grey and the new carbon look- to perfectly fit with both bike and rider. Sold as an optional accessory, a new inner bag has been designed for this case.

The new bags retail for $469 and you can log onto www.shadusa.com for more info.

Page 44

RIDE RECAP

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

AMERICADE 2014 • BETTER THAN EVER Mike Simonetti

The arrival of June means Americade, and the 2014 edition of this benchmark rally arrived gift wrapped in great weather and packed full of both new events and old favorites.

We stayed at the Sun Castle Resort on Rt. 9N, just a mile or so out of Lake George. We’ve been staying there for the last few years to take advantage of their beautiful townhouse rentals, lakeside view, exceptional hospitability, and proximity to all the action.

We arrived on the Saturday evening preceding the opening ceremonies, and we began our week with BBq at the Barnsider along with a look at the bikes parked along Canada Street. There seemed to be more bikes present than we’d noticed in previous years at that point in time, and we chalked up the crowds to an improving economy and an excellent weather forecast.

We were joined by our friends and fellow Spyder riders John and Donna on Sunday, and spent the day riding the superb Adirondack roads and enjoying cool drinks in the evening from our balcony overlooking the lake.

Monday saw us glide through the well-oiled registration process at the Hilton before dropping off our tickets for the voluminous door prize drawings

at the Fort William Henry Hq. We spent the day exploring new roads as we discovered them and revisiting some old favorites. The rally officially kicked off Monday evening with a well attended celebration at the Fort.

We arose at the crack of dawn to slurp down some caffeine and be the first on line for the Can Am demo rides at the rally Hq on Tuesday. We arrived at 7:00, an hour before the sign-up began, and we were joined in short order by a queue of other hopefuls seeking one of the precious few slots available for demos on the 2014 Spyders. We snagged the first ride on brand spanking

new RTs equipped with the new three cylinder motor. I have a 2013 and, although I love it, this new model outperforms it in every significant aspect.

Its smoother, faster, and it sports a new radiator design for improved rider comfort along with a sixth speed in the transmission, better handling, and an “economy” mode. I’m already plotting how and when to upgrade my ride, with my wife Lisa as a more than willing accomplice.

For our next event we took part in the “Ride the Ramble” mini-tour. This tour was an easy 130 mile romp over the network of amazing secondary roads crisscrossing the Adirondack region, and it included an excellent luncheon.

Sponsored by Tom-Tom, the door prize was one of their newest motorcycle GPSs, a prize worth taking the ride for on its own merit!

BACKROADS • NOVEMBER 2014

Having abandoned my GL1800 in favor of a Spyder in recent years, I decided to take in a Trike seminar hosted by the owner or Motor Trike. The talk was informative and lively, as most Americade seminars tend to be. Featured speakers this year included perennial favorite and motorcycle pundit Fred Rau, Rider Magazine’s Greg Drevenstedt, Maggie McNally, Chair of the AMA’s Board of Directors, and motorcyclist/comedian Alonzo Bodden.

We attended Alonzo’s show on Wednesday evening, and I can confirm that he’s very funny, and an equal opportunity roaster of motorcycle riders of every stripe. His prime target was a “club” of three metric bike riders calling themselves the “Wild Hogs”. You can imagine where it went from there!

While in TourExpo I took the opportunity to have my bike photographed

by Spirit Bike. They offer a unique service in that they will take a profes-

Page 45 sional quality photo and painstakingly cut out parts, bend them to shape, and glue them back into place thereby creating a beautiful 3D effect. It takes three months to complete the process and deliver the piece. I have a spot reserved on my office wall for the one I ordered. I think it presents as a beautiful cross between a technical drawing and art.

On Friday we took the guided Seven Lake Mini-Tour which gave us an opportunity to observe some of the region’s boating culture in action. Once again the roads were curvy, devoid of traffic, and picture perfect under a warm, spring sun.

The meal was at a YMCA retreat nestled on the lake shore, and the food was the best I’ve tasted on a mini-tour in ages.

I’ve only missed five Americades since the inception of this event as Aspencade in the 1980s. It continues to grow and develop, now under the direction of founder Bill Dutcher’s son, Christian. Along with historic favorites such as min-tours, demo rides, Tour Expo, gala opening and closing parties, and fireworks, this year featured everything from a Beach Party sponsored by Scala Rider, to adventure events such as zip lining, balloon rides, and scenic airplane rides. Lake George itself offers a host of activities including a rodeo, boating, parasailing, and steam boat dinner cruises. No other event I’ve attended has offered a better place to ride or more things to do. I sincerely hope that Americade will endure for decades to come, and that I will be around to attend them!

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Page 46

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

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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

Worth the ride from anywhere!

At Belvidere-Riverton Free Bridge, Riverton, PA

Sharing your passion for good food since 1983

610-498-4241 • www.rivertonhotel.com

Member of

NOW AVAILABLE Barbeque Catering Flexible • Affordable Ready When You Are 320 Front Street, Belvidere, NJ • 908-475-2274 • www.thisilldous.com

Open Daily for Breakfast and Beyond • 7am to 4pm • Sunday 7am to 1pm Try our Full Throttle Breakfast Special every Saturday + Sunday

Ride or Drive in for some great BBQ all year round.

The Boat House Restaurant

‘50s-Style Drive-In Restaurant Full and Varied Menu Room for the Whole Gang

Join us for Brunch, Lunch or Dinner overlooking Swartswood Lake

Member

Cool Nights, Hot Bikes • Two-Wheels or Four, join us at

THE CHATTERBOX DRIVE-IN

Excellent Ride Destination Tuesday ~ Sunday 11am-9pm

GREAT FOOD • GOOD TIMES • EXCELLENT RIDING Located at Ross’ Corners • 1 Route 15 • Augusta NJ • 973-300-2300

www.chatterboxdrivein.com

Brunch 10am-2pm • Closed Mondays Call for Seasonal Hours 1040 Cty Rd 521 • Swartswood, NJ 973-300-0016

ine gaz rMa Tou

lley’s Hudson Va ne Riding Number O t Restauran e u q e b r a B W North 1076 Route 9 mery, NY Fort Montgo

oute 9W icturesque R Located on P rive D s n Perki minutes from k ar P te Sta and Harriman oint P t es historic W f o th u so st ju

845-446-0912 rmerbbq.com www.barnsto

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www.theboathouserestaurantonline.com

Motorcycles, Travel and Adventure

LOOKING FOR THAT PERFECT HOLIDAY GIFT? Celebrate the Season with some awesome barbeque!

Stocking Stuffer? Riding Club Party Gift?

For just $40 you can give a year’s worth of reading and riding pleasure with a subscription to the best magazine in the USA.

If you go home hungry it’s your own fault

Find all the details on our website: www.backroadsusa.com or call 973-948-4176 to order yours today.

Page 48

NOVEMBER 2014 • BACKROADS

MOTORCYCLE MARKETPLACE

ALL THAT GOOD STuFF If you didn’t like cool stuff, you wouldn’t be reading this magazine.

Here’s something you’re going to love.

TORQ-IT 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

Touring North Central Virginia?

Then ride on over to the NEW Comfort Inn & Suites in Orange

Moto-Inn Approved Tell ‘em Backroads sent you!

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

Motorcyclist Owned & Operated The newest motorcycle-friendly hotel closest to Skyline Drive… Large indoor heated pool and spa • Free deluxe hot breakfast buffet just 30 miles away!

Microwaves + 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

2015 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE

THE ALL-NEW VIKING™ EPS 4X4

Perfect Ride for Any Journey

Yamaha has what you need for Autumn and Winter work and fun.

Visit us at the KTM booth IMS Javits Center • Dec. 12-14

Visit Hanover Powersports and get yours today.

ONLY Full Line KTM Dealer in the tri-state area HUGE inventory of KTM Parts, Accessories and Apparel Follow Us on Instagram Watch Us on YouTube Like Us on Facebook

210 Route 10 West, East Hanover, NJ • 973-428-1735

www.HanoverPowersports.com

Follow Us on Instagram

210 Route 10 West, East Hanover, NJ • 973-428-1735

Watch Us on YouTube

www.HanoverPowersports.com

Like Us on Facebook

Shown with optional accessories. ATVs shown are recommended for use only by riders age 16 years and older. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887-2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing; never carry passengers; never engage in stunt riding; riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix; avoid excessive speed; and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. *Shown with optional accessories. Always wear your seat belt, helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Read the owner’s manual and the product warning labels before operation.Specifications subject to change without notice. ©2013 Yamaha Motor Corporation. U.S.A. All rights reserved. • yamaha-motor.com • YamahaViking.com

DON’T PANIC • BE PREPARED Honda has what you’ll need for Autumn and Winter work and fun.

Come to Hanover Powersports for your ATV, side-by-side, snowblower and generator needs. We’ve got you covered.

Visit our booth at the IMS Javits Center December 12-14 Watch our website for more details

www.Powersports.Honda.com 210 Route 10 West • East Hanover, NJ • 973-428-1735 Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri: 9am-6pm • Thur: 9am-8pm • Sat: 9am-5pm SUNDAY: CLOSED - GONE RIDING

honda.com UTILITY ATVs ARE RECOMMENDED FOR RIDERS 16 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER. ALL ATV RIDERS SHOULD TAKE A TRAINING COURSE AND READ THEIR OWNER’S MANUAL THOROUGHLY. MULTI-PURPOSE UTILITY VEHICLES CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO OPERATE. BIG RED IS ONLY FOR DRIVERS 16 YEARS AND OLDER. DRIVER AND PASSENGER MUST BE TALL ENOUGH FOR SEAT BELT TO FIT PROPERLY AND TO BRACE THEMSELVES WITH BOTH FEET FIRMLY ON THE FLOOR. PASSENGER MUST BE ABLE TO GRASP THE HANDHOLD. NEVER DRIVE WITH MORE THAN ONE PASSENGER. ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SEAT BELT, AND KEEP THE SIDE NETS AND DOORS CLOSED. ALL MUV USERS SHOULD WATCH THE SAFETY VIDEO “MULTIPURPOSE UTILITY VEHICLES: A GUIDE TO SAFE OPERATION” AND READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL BEFORE OPERATING THE VEHICLE. FOR BOTH TYPES OF VEHICLES, ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND APPROPRIATE CLOTHING. AVOID EXCESSIVE SPEEDS, AND BE CAREFUL ON DIFFICULT TERRAIN. FOR YOUR SAFETY BE RESPONSIBLE. NEVER DRIVE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL, OR ON PUBLIC ROADS. RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT WHEN DRIVING. Big Red®, Pioneer®, Rancher® and Foreman® are registered trademarks of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (11/14)