2014 Black Hills Iron Rally Edition

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White Platers

Take Sturgis back to its racing roots

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Pioneer

J.C. “Pappy” Hoel is shown here in front of his motorcycle shop in the 1930’s.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is not about the T-shirts you buy.

It’s not about the concerts.

It’s not about the beer, or the party, or the crowds.

At least, that’s what a group of veteran bikers who are working to bring the Rally’s roots back to the forefront of the event say.

According to the White Plate Flat Trackers Association, Sturgis is about the racing.

In fact, the roots of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally are firmly based in racing, and the White Platers — an elite organization of some of the country’s top racing veterans — want to make sure that racing is what brings the Rally into the future.

Started in 1979 by J.C. “Pappy” Hoel and Al Burke as a way to group all of the country’s best motorcycle racers and honor them by preserving the names and history of the professional expert motorcycle flat track racers, the White Plate Flat Tracker’s Association is a national organization of about 180 members. Membership spans motorcycle racing stars from as early as the 1940s to the present, many of whom are members of the American

Motorcyclist Association Hall of Fame and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame.

Recently, the city of Sturgis gave the White Platers stewardship over the historic half-mile track, located on Ballpark Road, for 2014-2016.

The association plans to use those years to promote and preserve the half-mile races that were the humble beginnings for the massive party that is today’s Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

“The track is historic,” Jerry Petersen, a member of the White Platers, said. “It’s over 100 years old. It’s older than radio. It’s a real tangible connection to not only the 100 years of Sturgis history, but also that’s where the Rally started. If it wasn’t for this race, the Rally would be somewhere else. The White Platers, their mission statement is to protect that form of American racing. Most forms of racing were borrowed from Europe. The only real American racing on motorcycles is the one that America is the most known for, and that is flat track racing. If it wasn’t for the track, this history, or that form of racing — flat track racing — we wouldn’t be the Sturgis everyone knows today. Our history is directly linked to it.”

As the stewards of the track, Petersen said the White Platers in-

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Seventy-four years of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally history started here at the start/finish line shown here.

Courtesy photos

tend to make sure the half-mile race is the biggest event inside the city limits of Sturgis during the Rally.

“Most of the big events take place in Meade County,” Petersen said.

“The race being brought back to the forefront of the Rally is a natural, just like Indian motorcycles coming back to Sturgis. The crowds look to be as big as ever.”

Petersen pointed out that this year there are more races in the Black Hills than history can record. “You’d have to go back to the heyday of racing in the Hills to compare to the racing we have this year,” he said. “I think we have come full circle. The stars are aligned to make this event — like it was for decades — one of the things you do for sure that everything adds to. It’s just finding its place back in the sun. This is what it did for six decades, it was the event, and everything led up to the race. This was the formula that worked. Quite a few of us believe that to put it back to the forefront of the Rally only makes sense, because we want to be around another 75 years.

“People say it’s antiquated. We agree totally. Antiquing is cool. To go back to vintage motorcycling, these guys were screaming around White Platers PAGE 4

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White Platers from PAGE 3 the track with no brakes and trying to shift like they were driving a car. It’s crazy.”

Part of what makes racing in Sturgis so popular and special is the historic half-mile track that puts the crowds right into the racing environment.

“This isn’t a stadium like the Daytona race track that sits 400,000 people,” Petersen said. “There you can be closer to the bathrooms and the snack bar than you are the racing. In this situation you can’t be any closer to the racing unless you were holding on the handlebars. There is something very intimate about it. You smell it.

You see it. You breathe it. You feel it.”

And the track is still heaped in tradition.

Spectators who pay close attention may just find themselves rubbing elbows with racing champions from history. Recently the track hosted a 93-year-old man who had been denied his victory lap when he won the race in 1951 due to inclement weather. At 93, he was allowed to take his victory lap — 57 years after winning the championship.

“Motorcyclists from those days and from that era seem to have found the fountain of youth,” Petersen said. “We have a lot of members who seem to go into very much extended ages.”

Petersen said the White Platers hope that their new stewardship of the half-mile track will help bring dignity and promotion back to the historic race that started the Rally. In recent years, he said, the race has White Platers PAGE 5

The Sturgis half-mile track gives spectators a closeup look at the races. Courtesy photo

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White Platers from PAGE 4 been underplayed, and when it was cancelled at the last minute last year, the White Platers decided to step in and help out.

“The White Platers decided to get together to ensure that there would be no question from here to the forseeable future that the race would be properly handled and treated with the correct respect and with the correct fanfare and the correct excitement just for the history and to acknowledge its part in the Rally,” Petersen said. “People who come here deserve more than a belly full of beer and a bag full of T-shirts. (The White Platers) want to play a more prominent role to make sure our visitors understand and give more respect to the track and the race and then let them take those memories home to share with their family and friends, so we can continue to draw people to Sturgis for the right reasons.”

The historic half mile “Pappy Hoel Classic” will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 5 and Wednesday, Aug. 6 during the Rally.

On Tuesday racers will have a Harley versus Indian vintage showdown. On Wednesday racers will compete in the pro half mile race that features a $10,000 purse and is sanctioned by the American Motorcyclists Association.

For more information about the half mile races call (605) 490-3632.

White Platers return to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with races on Aug. 5-6.

Courtesy photo

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Peace, perspective, and motorcycles

58-year-old Rick Rochelle, of Spearfish, rides his 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 more often than not in the cold, snowy winter months. Photo courtesy of Danielle Osloond

A lifelong disciple of the two-wheeled church on enlightenment and the road

By Adam Hurlburt Black Hills Pioneer

The freedom of the open road. There is no ethos more singularly American. It’s engrained in our culture so deeply that we’re born with it tattooed on the inside of our skulls. The motorcycle, completely open to the elements unlike the four-wheeled machines it shares the road with, is the ultimate motorized expression of that freedom. For the vast majority of motorcyclists, however, that ultimate expression of freedom is abandoned in favor of practicality, safety, and comfort when inclement weather rears up, especially in winter. Understandable. No one judges those who make that choice, not even those who choose instead to ride year-round. Those people are rare, but they do exist. They aren’t any better than their cycle comrades. More dedicated?

More passionate? Maybe. But such presumptions are reckless, irresolute, and utterly worthless.

What about “crazy”?

Rick Rochelle hears that one more than anything else every winter. The 58-year-old Spearfish motorcycle fanatic commutes to work as a ski and snowboard instructor at Terry Peak, just outside of Lead, on his red 2009 Kawasaki KLR 650 more often than not in the snowy winter months thanks to years of riding experience, passion for motorcycling, and the carbide studs he personally affixed to his tires.

“It’s a lightweight bike. People think you’re nuts going down the road, but in traffic I can actually stop quicker than a car,” Rochelle says, peering out his Spearfish garage at his current stable of five two-wheeled companions resting in his driveway (KLR; 2009 Yamaha V-Max, black; 2011 Ducati Diavel, black; 1986 Honda 500 Interceptor, red, under construction; 1985 Kawasaki Eliminator,

black, under construction). “I find that riding in any kind of weather is its own adventure, so I’ll take it whatever way it comes to me.

“The correlation in the wintertime between riding a motorcycle and skiing/snowboarding — it’s a different ride every time — really interfaces, there’s a close match a lot of the time. The conditions are always changing: the road is changing, the slope is changing, the temperature is changing, the sun’s coming out. Every one of those is a factor because it’s an outdoor sport. They both hang together.”

Rochelle’s been in the motorcycle game for about 48 years, now. He grew up on a farm in eastern South Dakota and twisted the throttle on a cycle for the first time at 10 years old — a Honda StepThrough 50 owned by a buddy’s father. He was immediately hooked. Two years later he bought his first motorcycle, a 175cc Bridgestone. Riding it on the street was illegal, of course. “But out on the farm you can get by with a lot of things,” Rochelle says.

Even at such a young age, Rochelle had no interest in staying off his motorcycle when the snow fell. Back then he winterized his bike by putting sheet metal screw into the knobs on his tires, which gave him enough traction to get moving and slide the bike around. And he wasn’t the only maniac out there.

“There was a group of us that grew up together in Eastern South Dakota, and about five or six of us in my class had motorcycles. And we were farm kids,” Rochelle recalls. “We’d get out on the gravel roads in the middle of winter and have fun. So, I learned how to ride in a different way, you know, on rural Rick Rochelle hasn’t been without at least one motorcycle in his life in the past 48 years. Here he poses with a few of the five in his current Year round stable at his Spearfish home.

PAGE 7 Photo courtesy of Anthony Holguin Raymond Photography

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Year round from PAGE 6 roads, which was an advantage in a lot of ways.”

Rochelle hasn’t been without at least one motorcycle since that first one. The thrill of speed bit him early and didn’t let go, as it does with so many young males the world over. Once those teeth pierce the skin there’s no pulling them out; they sink deeper and deeper over time, eventually entwining seamless into the double helix of the subject’s genetic makeup. Cut it away and you cut away an integral part of the man.

Speed is in Rochelle at a molecular level, now. At a metaphysical level, even.

“I’m always trying to better what I do.

Do I speed? Yeah. Do I go fast in corners? Yeah. But there’s two sides to that,” Rochelle says. “People think you’re crazy, and if you don’t have the talent or the ability to do it, yeah you might be taking it too far to the edge. But with experience and with knowledge — I’m actually tuning my senses. So for me personally, going fast is OK as long as you know your limits. But at the same time, if you know how to trail brake, if you know how to exit a corner, if you know how to position your body, those are all things that would help you in the event that you get into a situation. Then you’ve got the extra bit of tools in your tool bag to maybe know how to hit the brakes just right, or not to apply too much, or when to downshift, any part of that.”

Ask anyone who’s ever ridden a motorcycle at high speed more than once and they’ll tell you the same thing: The sensation comes first, the immense forward thrust into gravity. A smile cracks across the face. The needle pushes deeper and deeper into the speedometer. The wind rips at the body. The smile closes up. The road below, the scenery around, and all thoughts, stresses, and baggage of daily life blur out as focus sharpens to a fine and necessary point. The dual nature of man and machine falls away. There is no past, there is no future, there’s no room for them.

There’s only the eternal, ecstatic truth of right here, right now.

“People find their peace, their nirvana, whatever, doing something,” Rochelle says. “This, in some ways, is me at peace.

A place where my soul is tranquil — even

Rochelle geared up and ready for the ride from Terry Peak to Spearfish. Courtesy photo doing 100 mph. I’m a little on edge, but I’m still cool with it.”

But there’s more to motorcycling for Rochelle than Zen speed. One does not fully experience the true beauty and freedom of the open road if the road is all they see. Kerouac would’ve been nothing more than another rambling wino beatnik if “On The Road” focused only on the road itself.

There are places, there are people, there are experiences.

“You pick the destination, you run into people in different towns, you have coffee, you camp out, and you end up waking up in the morning and here’s an old guy on a

Photo courtesy of Anthony Holguin Raymond Photography

Victory from down South — I think North Carolina — and he invites me to come down and have a cup of coffee together.

He’s probably got 20 years on me, and he’s still riding,” Rochelle says, providing a perfect example.

You might say Rochelle’s a prolific tourer. He’s ridden in nearly every state in the continental U.S. outside of a handful in northern New England and Alaska (pending). He rides the two-lanes when he has the time. That’s where the people, the places, and the stories of real America reside.

But if he’s riding in the dead of night or pressed for time he’ll take the Interstates.

And as you might expect, Rochelle strives for a higher level on the long haul, too.

“When I ride tour I don’t quit, so to speak. I did one last year out to Virginia, out to see my sister and brother in law. I drove straight through. 1,895 miles,” he says. “Now when I say ‘straight through’, you stop and get gas, and then you pull over for a 5-10 minute cat nap, and then you go.

That’s pushing the endurance side of it.”

Ask Rochelle to name his favorite motorcycle trip memory and you’ll be around for a while. There are a lot. And there should be if you’ve been riding motorcycles yearround for 48 years. It’s not that Rochelle tells you as many stories as he can think of in deep detail. No. Rochelle is one of the most grounded, mindful, modest human beings you’ll ever meet. When you spend time with him you get the notion he’d rather sell off his favorite bike in the stable than come off boastful. Picking one particular motorcycle memory over any other, it seems, does a disservice to all the others, each of them just as special, but in different ways.

“As you go through time and age, they’re

all memorable. There’s not one any different than another one,” Rochelle says.

“Those are progressions in life, different stages in life, different times in life. Every one is memorable. As you progress with age there’s not one any more important than any other one.”

There’s another aspect to Rochelle’s inspiring life on two wheels that really must be included, something that only those who can relate through experience and personal practice can truly understand, an aspect that creates the deepest of the bonds between man and machine. It’s been a deep part of Rochelle’s motorcycle life for a very long time, and it’s only gotten deeper working part time as a mechanic under the expert tutelage of Mike Coyle at Spearfish’s Metric Motors.

“Besides riding, I can enjoy working on it. … There’s a certain sense that, by working on your machine, and the metal, and the plastics, and whatever else you deal with, that ties you to that machine. I see people bring their bikes in to get worked on — and that’s cool, I’ll work on them, but they don’t have that feel, that need, that oneness with the bike — you understand what’s happening to it. Whereas people just ride it, put it away, get it out, ride it, put it away — and that’s how they enjoy the sport. That’s fine. There’s nothing wrong with it. But there’s a kindred spirit with it, not to make it too light-hearted,” Rochelle says. “Why did guys on their ship give it a female name, or why did they paint something on their bomber, why do they still do that today? Because they’re tying themselves to that piece of metal. Whether you realize it or not, in that metal is little molecules and we’re all tied in one source or another.”

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BH Harley to expand

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Pioneer

Black Hills Harley-Davidson just keeps getting bigger.

Due to the ever-expanding and unwavering support from customers around the world, the Rapid City-based Harley dealership announced its plans for a major expansion, with construction starting in late August. The project will add 25,000 square feet to the sales and show room floor.

“Our business is growing so much,” said Black Hills Harley-Davidson co-owner and General Manager Terry Rymer. “Business is brisk enough that we have to make some expansions just to handle the amount of traffic that we get, not only for the Rally but all year long.”

The project, which will expand the store front by about 200 feet, will kick off on Aug. 21 and run through June 21, 2015 — right when summer riding is in full swing.

In addition to the increased customer traffic, Rymer said the dealership needs to make room to showcase even more Harleys.

“Our new bike allocation has grown sub-

stantially in the last four years,” he said. “So we need an expanded show room for all the new models.”

In addition to the expanded retail and show room space, the project will move the service department to the basement, where Harley Davidson technicians will be able to handle a larger volume of customers for full service mechanics.

But Black Hills Harley-Davidson is not waiting until after the 2014 Rally to start looking at expansions. This year’s Rally expo will feature at least 20 percent more vendors than ever before, with activities and showcases throughout the week to keep visitors busy. The best part about the Rally tent will be the increased number of bikes for sale. But visitors can also browse the wide array of apparel, jewelry, parts and accessories, artwork, and more.

“We will have more bikes for sale than ever, more to see and more to do than ever before,” Rymer said.

Last year, Black Hills Harley-Davidson welcomed bikers to the Rally by adding three acres to their parking lot — expanding parking by about 50 percent.

Black Hills Harley-Davidson will add 25,000-square-feet to its sales and showroom floor following this years Rally. Pioneer photo by Mark Watson

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Sturgis Motorcycle Museum

officials maintain grand vision for expansion

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Pioneer The vision for a planned expansion at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame would more than triple the size of the building, and create an iconic destination point for visitors to the Black Hills, museum officials say.

Christine Page-Diers, director of the museum, said the organization is still in the very beginning stages of raising the funds to make that happen. The museum board is in the process of hiring a development director to help with the capital campaign that seeks to raise $7 million — $5 million to build a new, 25,000 square foot facility, $1 million to be spent on exhibits, and $1 million for a museum endowment that will take the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame well into the future. Page-Diers said the board would like to reach its fundraising goal within two years, “but we’re still ramping up.”

“We’ve had a building fund for quite some time, but now we are looking at an actual major

push,” Page Diers said. “It’s fabulous to have the money from the Legends Ride and from other donations that we have gotten, but in comparison to what we’re looking to raise, those are just a start.”

Though the museum has been working to raise funds with such Sturgis Motorcycle Rally events as the Legends Ride and Kids and Chrome, Page-Diers said the board is not ready to announce its fundraising progress just yet.

It is currently actively seeking donors who are willing to gift the expansion project with $50,000 or more. Once that campaign has been completed, she said the museum will move toward more public fundraisers.

“We will be looking to everyone to help us get over the edge at the end of that campaign to help put us over the top when we get close to our goal,” Page-Diers said. “Throughout that process we will be looking at other ideas for raising funds.”

Some examples for fundraising ideas include other rides in other areas, where a portion of the proceeds will benefit the

museum expansion fund.

The concept of the new museum starts with its existing location on Sturgis’ Main Street, but adds about 11,000 more square feet to the north and to the east.

Current ideas are to have a motorcycle coming out of the side of the building, making it readily recognizable as the iconic Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame.

“We want people to have a feel for the fact that we are looking to be an iconic structure in the Black Hills,” Page-Diers said.

“We want to be that place, yearround, where people say ‘I need to have my picture taken by that building.’”

In addition to its fundraising and expansion plans, Page-Diers said the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum is also busy planning major rides, exhibits, and of course its annual Hall of Fame breakfast. This year the museum will induct six people into the Hall of Fame, and will name one person as a Freedom Fighter.

Those who will be inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame include,

Clyde Fessler, Jesse Jurrens, Jay “Lightnin” Bentley, Keith Terry, Bonnie Truett, and Paul Yaffe.

The 2014 Freedom Fighter is Deb “Tiger” Chandler.

While the museum is looking forward to its popular Legends Ride and Biker Belle’s Ride — both annual fundraising events from which the museum is a benefactor — this year PageDiers said there will be another ride added to the mix. The Blue and Chrome Ride will be held Aug. 6, and will benefit the Rapid City Fraternal Order of Police, as well as the museum.

Major exhibits during this year’s Sturgis Motorcycle Rally will include one that further celebrates women in motorcycling.

“Through the Decades,” will feature women who have not been highlighted before in any other exhibit — but who also made significant contributions to motorcycling.

“It celebrates women in motorcycling from the beginning of motorcycling on,” she said. “We chose women who have not been highlighted in any of our other exhibits. In the time I have been

here, the women’s exhibits have included the Motor Maids exhibit, the first ladies of motorcycling, and now our “Paving the Way: Women of the Hall of Fame” exhibit. All three of those exhibits highlighted women who are well known in motorcycling. So when you go to this exhibit you’ll actually see women who may or may not be as well known, but who have made a significant contribution to the sport of motorcycling.”

Such women as Maggie McNally, who is the first chairwoman for the American Motorcyclist Association, and Effie and Ava Hotchkiss — a mother-daughter riding team who left Brooklyn, N.Y., on a motorcycle with a sidecar, and rode 9,000 miles in 1915.

During the exhibit, which will be held at the Legendary Buffalo Chip art gallery, visitors will also have the opportunity to write about their female inspiration in motorcycling and share it with museum staff.

For more information about the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame visit sturgismotorcyclemuseum.com.

Shown here is a conceptual drawing of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum expansion, showing additions to the existing structure on Main Street. Courtesy photo

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Legends roll in to ride for charity STURGIS — The Sturgis Buffalo Chip’s signature Legends Ride is poised to host a record number of riders and raise more charitable funds than ever before on Monday, Aug. 4.

The annual event draws in some of the biggest names in television, film, music, and motorcycling, along with hundreds of riders from around the globe; and the 2014 roster of celebrity guests is shaping up to be one of the most spectacular to date. The Buffalo Chip organized the Legends Ride in 2008 to bring riders together to raise funds for local charities including Black Hills Special Olympics and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame. In its six consecutive successful years, the ride has raised more than $325,000 for worthy Black Hills charities.

“The Legends Ride is an opportunity to meet the Rally’s biggest celebrities,” said Rod Woodruff, Sturgis Buffalo Chip CEO. “It gives riders the chance to give back to Black Hills charities, ride with the stars through some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery, bid on a magnificent custom bike and enjoy world-class entertainment.”

Riders gather on Deadwood’s Main Street beginning at 11 a.m. on Aug. 4 to check in, meet the celebrities and check out the

bikes. The 2014 Buffalo Chip Student Build Challenge bike will be auctioned in support of the Legends Ride in front of Deadwood’s Historic Franklin Hotel. The motorcycle is a fully customized 2014 Harley-Davidson Street Glide built by Sturgis Brown High School students under the instruction of industry veterans. Students worked side-byside with the experts and learned state-ofthe-art techniques while creating a beautiful, custom, 155 horsepower bagger. They entered the bike into the renowned Donnie Smith Bike Show in St. Paul, Minn., where it took first place in the High School Build Open Class. It also won first place in the Full Custom Bagger Division at the Black Hills Motorcycle Show.

Celebrities so far confirmed for the 2014 Legends Ride include: • Frank Fritz, star of History Channel’s “American Pickers” • R. Lee Ermey, film star and Golden Globe Award nominee • Kristy Swanson, actress • Arlen, Cory and Zach Ness of Arlen Ness Enterprises • Lloyd Eisler, Olympic bronze medalist and the 1993 World Champion skater • Joe Sylvester, TORC (The Off Road Championship) Pro Light Racer

The annual Legends Ride will help kick off the 74th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally on Monday, Aug. 4. Courtesy photo • Mark Kvamme, TORC (The Off Road Championship) Pro 4 Racer • Honky Tonk Man, professional WWE wrestling icon.

The ride departs from Deadwood’s Main Street at 2:30 p.m. and leads participants through the most scenic areas of the fabled Black Hills. The ride culminates at the Buffalo Chip with a private catered reception and pre-concert party. A $150 donation is required from all riders, 100 percent of which benefit the two charities. Sponsors graciously provide riders general admission

to Monday’s concerts by the Zac Brown Band, John Mayall and 4onthefloor, in addition to a Legends Ride souvenir gift pack and miles of the Rally’s best memories.

The Buffalo Chip’s Legends Ride has been featured on CMT, the National Geographic Channel, the Tonight Show, the FX Network, Funny or Die, and the Travel Channel, as well as countless print, online, and newspaper articles.

For more information or to purchase tickets call (605) 347-9000 or visit LegendsRide.com.

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Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame announced the 2014 inductees into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame and the Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame.

Deb ‘Tiger’ Chandler

Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame — Deb “Tiger” Chandler has been an active part of the motorcycling community for more than 40 years. In partnership with the Colorado Confederation of Clubs, she assumed the role of Colorado Commander of the Coalition of Independent Riders — a registration of independent riders. Tiger has worked tirelessly through the state legislature to address issues of importance to motorcyclists in Colorado.

Clyde Fessler

During his 25-year career at the HarleyDavidson Motor Company, Clyde Fessler played an integral role in the turnaround of the company. He served in multiple marketing positions including, director of marketing, vice president of general merchandise, vice president of motor accessories, and vice president of business development. He was responsible for many innovative programs, policies, products, and marketing strategies that made Harley-Davidson one of the most recognized brands in the world.

Jesse Jurrens

Legend Suspensions began in 1998 when Jesse Jurrens recognized the benefits an air spring could have on motorcycles and sought to develop the technology for the Harley-Davidson Softail chassis. Eventually convinced, the Gates Rubber Company, the leader in air spring technology, agreed to lend their patented Kevlar impregnated rubber air spring technology to the fledgling South Dakota start-up. Since that time, Jesse has continued to develop innovative suspension systems. Today, Legend Suspensions manufactures Aero Air Suspension systems and Revo coil suspension systems for all Harley-Davidson models and Off-road UTVs. The company is a recognized leader in suspension technology.

Jay ‘Lightning’ Bentley

From the time he was a teenager, Jay Lightning rode in a motordrome owned by Pappy Boudreaux — first part-time and later full-time. By 1998, Jay took out a loan against his home to purchase wood and equipment to begin building what would become the American Motor Drome Wall of Death. Completed in 2000, it was the first of its kind to be built in over 50 years. For the past 14 years, the American Motor Drome has toured the country full-time. Besides keeping the drome running, Jay collects classic motorcycles and wall bikes that he displays as part of the traveling show.

Keith Terry

An avid motorcyclist since he was 15, Keith Terry’s career actually started in the

automotive industry, after which he operated a company that promoted bicycle motocross races. In 1994 Keith built his first custom motorcycle, and he’s been building them ever since. Keith and his wife Fran have owned Terry Components, the largest supplier of motorcycle starter motors and battery cables in the industry for 20 years. More recently, Keith — along with Chris Malo — started Baggster LLC, a company that manufactures custom conversion kits for Harley-Davidson applications. For the last three years, Keith has been in charge of the Buffalo Chip Challenge working with Sturgis Brown High School.

Bonnie Truett’s name will likely come up.

Bonnie started racing in the 1960s, and was constantly working to get more out of his drag bikes. He started by changing the flywheels in his own Sportster, but eventually he and his partner Paul Osborn started to create and manufacture their own flywheels, frames, cams, cylinders, and rods.

Bonnie continued to race until 1984, and he and Paul continued to run Truett and Osborn together until his retirement in 1997.

Bonnie Truett

For over 20 years, Paul Yaffe has created custom motorcycles, working on as many as 12 commissioned bikes in any given year. As part of his creative pro-

Ask anyone in the drag racing world who’s had a broad impact on the sport and

Paul Yaffe

cess, Paul often engineers new and exciting parts for one of his custom creations.

Often those parts are in demand from others in the custom-bike building world.

So, Paul created his Bagger Nation brand of custom parts and accessories for touring motorcycles.

The annual Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Breakfast is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 6 at The Lodge at Deadwood in Deadwood, S.D. Breakfast tickets are available for a $35 donation, tables of eight for $300.

Tickets can be purchased by calling the Museum at (605) 347-2001 or they can be purchased online at http://www.sturgismuseum.com/shop/hall-fame-breakfast.

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Catholic Bishop to lead motorcycle poker run

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Pioneer

Catholic Bishop Robert Gruss is looking forward to getting into the wind again — as he prepares to ride a motorcycle and lead a string of other bikers on a rally and poker run that will raise money for a new spiritual outreach center at BHSU. The first Ride with the Bishop Rally and Poker Run will be held on Sunday, July 27. The event will kick off at 8:30 a.m. with a Mass, followed by a bike blessing. Participants can also have breakfast at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Afterward, Bishop Gruss will lead the Poker Run through Spearfish Canyon, over to Devil’s Tower, and end at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Belle Fourche, where participants can enjoy a barbecue and silent auction.

For those who do not ride motorcycles, cars are welcome on the ride as well.

Though Gruss, 59, rode motorcycles in his younger years, this will be the first major motorcycle ride he has participated in since he sold his bike in 1990. It was Monsignor Michael Woster, who heads up St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Spearfish, who suggested the idea for the fundraising ride that would raise much-needed capital and awareness for a campaign to build a new Newman Center on the Black Hills State University campus. The Newman Center serves as a spiritual “home away from home” facility for students.

“I love motorcycles,” Woster said. “I have been riding motorcycles since I was about 15 years old. I was thinking about various ways in which we could draw attention to our campaign for a new Newman Center at Black Hills State University. Of course, being a biker enthusiast I knew there are many riders in the Black Hills area and beyond who love to ride. I thought people would love a chance to have a day together to enjoy motorcycles and to ride with the bishop.”

When Woster suggested his idea for a motorcycle Poker Run with the bishop, Gruss supported it with much enthusiasm.

“I think it’s a great opportunity to be with a different sector of the Catholic population that I probably wouldn’t have the opportunity to be with,” Gruss said.

“I think it’s a wonderful cause. Any way that I can help, I want to make use of the opportunity and help them out. I like riding motorcycles.

“There are all means and ways and venues in which the Bishop can be with his people and evangelize,” Gruss continued, adding that he is looking forward to meeting and visiting with the poker run participants.

Though Gruss’ motorcycle has not yet been determined, he said it will be a Harley. Gruss has been working with Jim Burgess, co-owner of Black Hills HarleyDavidson, and said the company will lend him a bike for the summer. He plans to ride it as much as possible, in order to familiarize himself with the Harley and get comfortable on the road.

“I’ve never ridden a Harley before, so

this will be a whole new experience,” Gruss said.

Participants in the poker run will have the chance to win cash prizes, said Patsy Custis, coordinator of faith foundation for St. Joseph’s Church. At the end of the ride, the top three poker hands will receive $300, $200, and $100 respectively, and a $50 prize will go out to whoever holds the worst hand.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the construction of a new Newman Center, near the BHSU campus.

Established on college campuses around the world, Newman Center’s are Catholic ministry centers for college students who are seeking a “home away from home.” Though Spearfish currently has a Newman Center, the facility is aging and is located more than a mile away from the campus, making accessibility difficult for some students. The new facility will be located less than a block away from the main campus, and will include a chapel that is equipped for full Mass celebrations, with seating capacity for more than 100 people; a complete kitchen for serving meals to college students; a large fellowship hall that will facilitate many kinds of activities; a recreation and study area; a lounge, and more.

Gruss was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI, and in July 2011 was ordained as the Eighth Bishop of the Diocese of Rapid City.

To register for the Ride with the Bishop Rally and Poker Run visit www.stjosephspearfish.com, and click on the “We Share” tab on the banner.

Monsignor Michael Woster, of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Spearfish, poses on his Harley in front of the church. The Ride with the Bishop Rally and Poker Run event was Woster’s idea as a fundraiser for a new spiritual outreach center to be built near the BHSU campus. Courtesy photos

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Pg 12

Black Hills Roundup | July 2014

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Fort Meade Museum

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66 years of peacekeeping

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Pioneer

With 66 years of history as an active, peacekeeping fort in the Black Hills, as well as a training ground for national guardsmen and a place where our nation’s heroes are taken care of through the Veterans Administration hospital, Fort Meade is a “must see” destination for anyone who has an interest in military history.

And the Fort Meade Museum, located just East of Sturgis on Highway 34, is the first stopping point to view that history. The museum, located in the old Fort Meade headquarters in the historical district of the fort, houses the historical treasures from the fort’s establishment in 1878 through 1944. It also carries many items that tell the story of Sturgis and Meade County, long after the fort was no longer an active military post.

“During the 66 years of the fort a lot of things did go on,” said Bob Kusser, director of the Fort Meade Museum. “The horse cavalry was here until at least 1942. The national anthem began here in 1892.

Also, the Marcus Reno court marshal was here. The mission of the post back then was a peacekeeper post. It was basically at the end of the Indian Wars.”

An introduction video at the museum explains that after Custer’s defeat at the Little Big Horn, widespread Indian raids plagued travelers to the Black Hills. The fort was built as the result of political pressure to help keep the peace in the Black Hills.

Visitors to the Fort Meade Museum can view that history in its entirety. Cases enhanced by natural lighting tell the story of how the Star Spangled Banner originated from Fort Meade; how Maj. Marcus Reno was court martialed for peeping at the commander’s daughter; the story of Poker Alice, who, along with her working girls entertained single soldiers on the fort; and how the fort became the site for 16 Civilian Conservation Camps. All of this, and more, are told within the walls of the museum that features three stories packed full of history.

As if that isn’t enough, visitors who take the time to walk around outside can see even more history at the post cemetery, which is the only original Cavalry Post Cemetery that has not been moved to a new location. Here, more than 200 soldiers are interned in a final resting places with a perfect view of Bear Butte.

A self-guided walking tour of Fort Meade can also reveal several historical buildings, which are still

in use today. A few stone and brick buildings of note include officer’s quarters, which currently serve as private residences, and enlisted men’s barracks, which are currently used by the S.D. Army National Guard for its Regional Training Institute for the Office Candidate Program. In fact, visitors who come at the right time may see soldiers actively training at the fort.

In addition to being a hub of history and training grounds for our nation’s next military leaders, Fort Meade serves as the site of a VA Medical Center, where our nation’s servicemen and women are taken care of.

“It’s a great win-win for the community,” Kusser said of the many services at Fort Meade.

Overall, Kusser said the Fort Meade Museum hosts about 4,000 visitors per year. The museum building is open seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally when it closes at 3 p.m. due to traffic congestion on Highway 34.

Though Kusser said the Fort Meade Museum only hosts a few visitors during the Rally, he encourages all bikers to stop by and take in a bit of history while they are in Sturgis.

“We have a real interesting history,

The Fort Meade museum, which pays tribute to the early days of Sturgis and the fort, was recently remodeled.

Pioneer photo by Wendy Pitlick especially with the horse cavalry and the frontier post,” Kusser said.

“So if they come to the Fort Meade Museum they get a taste of the old fort, and how well it’s maintained, as well as the buildings that are here that date back to those early

days of the fort to the present. The museum has a great story to tell of the 66 years of active duty here. We invite them to come and enjoy it.

It’s a great venue and it’s right on the path where you drive right by.”

The Star Spangled Banner: It started here Pioneer Staff Reports

On Sept. 14, 1814, U.S. soldiers at Baltimore’s Fort McHenry raised a huge American flag to celebrate a crucial victory over British forces during the War of 1812.

The sight of those “broad stripes and bright stars” inspired Francis Scott Key to write a song The Star Spangled Banner.

Key’s song gave new significance to a national symbol and started a tradition through which generations of Americans have invested the flag with their own meanings and memories.

Fast forward nearly 80 years.

The year was 1892 and Col. C.H. Carlton was in command of the 8th Cavalry at Fort Meade. And the story goes that he ordered everyone within hearing distance to remove their hats and rise when the Star-Spangled Banner was played. His orders included the necessity of playing the anthem at all mili-

tary functions, and this order is said to have convinced Secretary of War Daniel Lamont to require the song be played during each evening retreat at every Army post.

On July 27, 1889, Secretary of the Navy Benjamin F. Tracy signed an order making “The Star-Spangled Banner” the official tune to be played at the raising of the flag.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson ordered that “The StarSpangled Banner” be played at military and other appropriate occasions.

“The StarSpangled Banner” did not become the National Anthem until 1931.

BLACK HILLS IRON©

is produced by the Black Hills Pioneer, 315 Seaton Circle, Spearfish, SD, 57783, (800) 676-2761 www.bhpioneer.com • bhiron@bhpioneer.com Letitia Lister, publisher Mark Watson, managing editor Wendy Pitlick, reporter; Adam Hurlburt, reporter Leah Shockey, layout The publisher will not be responsible or liable for misprints, misinformation or typographic errors herein contained.

Publisher also reserves the right to refuse any advertising deemed not to be in the best interest of the publication. © 2014 BLACK HILLS IRON, all rights reserved.

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Motorcyclists prepare to venture out on a cruise through the Northern Hills on the Black Hills State University Yellow Jacket Ride to raise scholarship money for veterans during the Sturgis Motorcycle rally last August.

Pioneer photo by Heather Murschel

• Sturgis Rally Merchandise • Tattoos by Animal • World Famous • Capture the Moment Pinstriper Russ Photography

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BHSU Yellow Jacket Ride set for August 5

By Heather Murschel Black Hills Pioneer

While the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally was in full swing last August, a group of riders cruised into Spearfish to participate in the first-ever Black Hills State University Jacket Ride.

Not only did they enjoy a tour through the Northern Black Hills, their support raised funds for a scholarship available for university students who are also veterans.

Because of its success, Vice President for University Advancement Steve Meeker said the Jacket Ride will continue.

It will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 5 and begins at Lyle Hare Stadium.

“The Jacket Ride is a safe ride through Spearfish Canyon, Lead, Central City, Deadwood, Sturgis, and finally ends at the Buffalo Chip for lunch,” he said.

Safety measures include having South Dakota Highway Patrol troopers assist with traffic control in certain areas along the route.

Meeker said having scholarships available for veterans is important to attracting more students to the university, while putting BHSU in the national spotlight.

“It is for a great cause,” he said.

“Many veterans that attend BHSU have young families and have a great need for the assistance and are very appreciative.”

Although BHSU was only able to award $500 in scholarships last year because of the expenses involved, Meeker said this amount is expected to increase.

“We have expenses under control this year as we’ve received a lot of donations as well as a sponsor for the ride,” he said. “We are pleased to have the Buffalo Chip involved this year with our ride. They have been great to work with and are very supportive in our effort to raise money for veterans.”

Meeker also thanked Dennis Kirk for his support noting it warranted changing the event’s name to the Dennis Kirk Jacket Ride this year, as well as others that are contributing to make this happen.

For those interested in being a part of making a difference while enjoying a tour of the Black Hills, information on how to get involved is available online at www.bhsu.edu. Once there, type in “Jacket Ride” in the search box, call 642-6228, or e-mail Meeker at steve.meeker@bhsu.edu.

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Harley-Davidson introduces electric motorcycle Harley-Davidson has introduced its first electric motorcycle, a sleek, futuristic bike that sounds like a jet airplane taking off and can go from 0 to 60 mph in less than four seconds.

The bike isn’t in production yet. Instead, the public got its first look at handmade demonstration models at an invitation-only event recently in New York. The company will now take the models on the road for riders to try and provide feedback. Harley will use the information to refine the bike, which might not hit the market for several more years.

The venture is a risk for Harley because there’s currently almost no market for fullsize electric motorcycles. The millions of twowheeled electric vehicles sold each year are almost exclusively scooters and low-powered bikes that appeal to Chinese commuters. But those focused on electric vehicle development say Harley has the marketing power to create demand, and its efforts to lower costs, build charging stations and improve technology will help everyone involved.

“It does validate what we’ve been doing; it adds additional credibility to it. It is certainly going to draw more people’s attention to electric motorcycles. The marketing horsepower of Harley-Davidson is going to be able to do things for us that we can’t do on our own,” said Scot Harden, vice president of global marketing at Zero Motorcycles, the top seller

of full-size, high-powered electric bikes.

Zero expects to sell 2,400 electric motorcycles this year, a drop in the bucket compared with the more than 260,000 conventional motorcycles sold last year by Harley.

The new LiveWire won’t make Harley’s distinctive “potato-potato-potato” chug. Its engine is silent, and the turbine-like hum comes from the meshing of gears. Electric motors also eliminate the need to shift gears and provide rapid acceleration and better handling. LiveWire’s design places the engine at the bottom of the bike.

“When you ride a motorcycle, it’s the movement of the top of the bike side-to-side that gives you agility in regard to making turns. So, if I put weight low in a motorcycle, I can turn faster. I can drop the bike down and make quicker moves,” said Gary Gauthier, of NextEnergy, a Detroit-based nonprofit with expertise in electric vehicles.

One hurdle Harley and others have yet to address is the limited range offered by electric motorcycles. Batteries typically must be recharged after about 130 miles, and that can take 30 minutes to an hour.

San Jose State University police Capt. Alan Cavallo helped his department buy two Zero motorcycles and said officers have been “super happy” with the quiet, environmentally friendly bikes made nearby in Scotts Valley, Calif. But he said American riders who like

to hit the highway would likely lose patience with the technology.

“That’s the deal with the cars; you can’t jump in a Tesla and drive to LA, it won’t make it,” Cavallo said, adding later, “People want the convenience of ‘I pull into a gas station, I pour some gas in my tank and I go.’”

Harley President Matt Levatich said he expects technology to improve and the company is less interested in immediate demand than

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long-term potential. True growth in electric vehicles also will require common standards for rapid charging and other features, as well as more places for people to plug in. Harley expects to play a role in that, he said, noting that its dealership network could provide charging stations.

“We think that the trends in both EV technology and customer openness to EV products, both automotive and motorcycles, is only going to increase, and when you think about sustainability and environmental trends, we just see that being an increasing part of the lifestyle and the requirements of riders,” Levatich said. “So, nobody can predict right now how big that industry will be or how significant it will be.”

Shown here is Harley-Davidson’s new electric motorcycle at the company’s research facility in Wauwatosa, Wis. The company unveil the LiveWire model in June. AP photo

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Pioneer staff photos

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NEWCASTLE / UPTON INVITES YOU TO

VER WHY THE RIDE BEGINS HERE O C S I !

D AUGUST FEST 2014

Friday, August 1, 2014 - Enjoy the sound of live bands performing on Main Street in downtown Newcastle, Wyoming. Enjoy cold beer and hot food.

Special motorcycle parking will be available on main street from August 1st - 20th

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Your 2014 Sturgis Rally

Schedule of Events OTORCYCLE 74th ANNUAL STURGIS M

RALLY

AUGUST 4-12, 2014

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE RALLY HEADQUARTERS Open July 31-Aug. 9, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

1019 Main St., Sturgis, SD 57785 (605) 720-0800 www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM & HALL OF FAME

Open 7 days a week $10 for one person, $15 for two people, $30 for five people, seniors 62+ $1 discount Free for children under 12 with an adult admission.

999 Main St., Sturgis, SD 57785 (605) 347-2001 www.sturgismuseum.com

RACES AND HILL CLIMBS

JACKPINE GYPSIES RACE SCHEDULE Jackpine Gypsies Club Grounds Short Track Rd., Sturgis www.jackpinegypsies.com Events tentative Aug. 2-3 — Moto X Aug. 4 — Amateur Hill Climb Aug. 4 — Flat Track Aug. 5 — Flat Track Aug. 6 — Verta Cross Aug. 8 — Pro Hill Climb

White Plate Flat Trackers Pappy Hoel Classic Motorcycle Races

Meade County Fairgrounds Aug. 5: — 11 a.m.

Vintage Races Aug. 6 — noon Pro half-mile

Black Hills HarleyDavidson presents AMA Pro Flat Track Race Black Hills Speedway Rapid City Aug. 5 – 7 p.m. www.blackhillshd.com

STURGIS DRAGWAY

East of Sturgis on Hwy 34 then turn North on Hwy 79 less than a mile www.sturgisdrags.com Aug. 5: Western Motorcycle Drag Racing Association/ AMSOIL Rally Races Aug. 6: WMDRA/AMSOIL Rally Races

BUFFALO CHIP

CAMPGROUND, STURGIS www.buffalochip.com TORC Off Road Championship Aug. 5-6 gates open at 10 a.m., races at 2 p.m.

Nitro National Pro Hill Climb Aug. 7-8: 4:30 p.m.

RIDES 12th annual Sturgis Mayors ride Aug. 4: 7-8:30 a.m. — Registration 9 a.m. — Departs from Motorcycle Expo, Sturgis, SD

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To register, call (605)720-0800 www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com/info-guide/ mayors-ride.php Legends Ride Celebration Aug. 4: 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. – Registration 3 p.m. – Ride leaves Deadwood 5:30 p.m. – Legends Ride Celebration at Buffalo Chip Campground 7 p.m. – Legends Ride Live Auction www.buffalochip.com

Black Hills State University’s Jacket Ride Aug. 5: 8:30 a.m. – Registration at the Donald E. Young Center in Spearfish, SD 10 a.m.–1 p.m. – Ride Lunch, prizes, Limited edition T-Shirt Spearfish, SD Contact Steve Meeker at (605) 642-6228, Or steve.meeker@bhsu.edu Biker Belles Aug. 5: 11 a.m. — Registration and activities at the Lodge at Deadwood 3:15 p.m. — Depart Deadwood for a ride to the Buffalo Chip 5-8 p.m. — Special reception and Biker Belles live auction at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip www.bikerbelles.com/ Custer Cruisin’ Mayors Ride Aug. 5: Noon — Registration at VFW Post 3442 Registration fee $25 Ride departs at 1 p.m.

721 Mt. Rushmore Road, Custer, SD (800) 992-9818 info@custersd.com

Schedule continued on PAGE 30

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Schedule from PAGE 29 Pappy Hoel Motor Ride Aug. 6: 10 a.m. – Ride starts Full Throttle Saloon www.fullthrottlesaloon.com Custer Veterans Ride Aug. 7: 11:30 a.m Registration at VFW Post 3442 Ride to follow 721 Mt. Rushmore Road, Custer, SD (800) 992-9818 info@custersd.com Third annual Haulin’ for Heroes Ride Aug. 7 Noon – Registration 2 p.m. Ride Deadwood Mountain Grand 1906 Deadwood Mountain Dr., Deadwood, SD (605) 559-0386

BUILDERS AND EXHIBITS

EASYRIDERS SALOON AND STEAKHOUSE, STURGIS www.easyriderssaloon.com

Rivera Primo Trike Show Aug. 3: 11 a.m.

Road Iron Bagger Show Aug. 7: 11 a.m.

BUFFALO CHIP CAMPGROUND, STURGIS www.buffalochip.com

Motorcycles as Art Aug. 3-9: Michael Lichter and Paul d’Orleans present: “Built for Speed – Race Inspired Motorcycles and Art” Through the Years: Women of the Hall of Fame Exhibit Aug. 3-9: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Crossroads at the Buffalo Chip

www.bhpioneer.com Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show Aug. 7: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Show 5:45-6:30 p.m. — Awards Presentation 10-10:15 p.m. — Best of Show Awards

STURGIS EXPO LOT: Lazelle & 4th St.

City of Riders Motorcycle Expo Aug. 4-10: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Swoop Productions Two Wheeled Entertainment Aug. 2-4, 6, 9-10: 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Ultimate Bagger Bike Show Aug. 4: 9:30-11:30 a.m. — Registration 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. — Show & Awards Military Appreciation Day Aug. 5: 1:30-3:30 p.m.

DEMO RIDES 2014 Harley-Davidson Demo Rides Aug. 2-9: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Rapid City Yamaha/Star, Victory, Indian, & Can Am Spyder Aug. 2-9: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Hersruds of Sturgis, I-90 Exit 30

CONCERTS BUFFALO CHIP CAMPGROUND Aug. 3-8 Buffalo Chip Campground East of Sturgis Aug. 3 — Lynyrd Skynyrd Aug. 4 — Zac Brown Aug. 4 — John Mayall Aug. 5 — Motley Crue Aug. 5 — Alice Cooper Aug. 6 — Florida Georgia Line Aug. 6 — ZZ Top Aug. 7 — Pop Evil Aug. 7 — Train Aug. 8 — The Pretty Reckless Also featuring the Charlie Brechtel Band, Iron Cowgirl Missy, Midstokke, the Living Deads, Jimmie Bratcher and Dwight York. www.buffalochip.com

Easyriders Saloon Junction Ave., Sturgis Aug. 2-9: Live music starting at 4 p.m. daily Aug. 2: 4 p.m. — Cold Hard Cash 6:30 p.m. — Lucas Hoge 7 p.m. — Kat Perkins 8 p.m. — Survivorman live – Les Stroud 10:30 p.m. — Montgomery Gentry Aug. 3: 4 p.m. — Cold Hard Cash 7 p.m. — Spacehog 8 p.m. — Eve 6 9 p.m. — Soul Asylum 10:30 p.m. — Everclear Aug. 4: 4 p.m. — Cold Hard Cash 6:30 p.m. — Hell’s Belles 8 p.m. — P.O.D. 10:30 p.m. — Hairball Aug. 5: 4 p.m. — ZZ-3 6:30 p.m. — Hell’s Belles 8 p.m. — Trapt 10:30 p.m. — Hairball Aug. 6: 4 p.m. — Hell’s Belles 6:30 p.m. — 10 Years 8 p.m. — Baker Smoke-Down Showdown 10:30 p.m. — Hairball Aug. 7: 4 p.m. — ZZ-3 6:30 p.m. – Moonshine Bandits 8 p.m. – Redlight King 10:30 p.m. – Theory of a Deadman Aug. 8: 4 p.m. — Cold Hard Cash 6:30 p.m. — Moonshine Bandits 8 p.m. — Sick Puppies 10:30 p.m. — Jack Russel’s Great White Aug. 9: 4 p.m. — ZZ-3 8 p.m. — Big Head Todd 10:30 p.m. — Parmalee TBD — Moonshine Bandits www.easyriderssaloon.com Full Throttle Saloon Highway 34, Sturgis Aug. 2 — Molly Hatchet Aug. 6 — Ted Nuget Aug. 7 — Jackyl www.fullthrottlesaloon.com Glencoe Camp Resort Aug. 2: 9 p.m. — Faster Pussycat 11 p.m. — Gilby Clark Aug. 3: 9 p.m. — Steve Augeri (Journey) Aug. 5: 9 p.m. — Steve Augeri (Journey) 11 p.m. Black Jack Billy Aug. 6: 9 p.m. — Born To Ride (Steppenwolf)

11 p.m. — Randy Houser Aug. 7: 9 p.m. — Born To Ride (Steppenwolf) 11 p.m. Fran Cosmo (Boston) www.glencoecamp.com

OTHER COOL STUFF! Military Appreciation Day Aug. 5: 1:30-3:30 p.m.

City of Riders Motorcycle Expo, Sturgis Wall of Death Aug. 2-10: 10 a.m.-1 a.m. daily Free to the public Buffalo Chip Campground Husker Helicopter Rides Aug. 1-9: 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Buffalo Chip Campground Linnaberry Wine Aug. 1-2: 9 p.m.

Live band Shade Valley Camp Resort, Hwy 34, Sturgis Lehman Trikes Factory Tours Aug. 4-10: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Factory Tours - Demo Event – Dealers I-90, Exit 14, Spearfish Art Inside Out Aug. 1-9: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily Dahl Arts Center, Rapid City Globe and Wall of Death Aug. 2-9: 12 p.m.-12 a.m.

Full Throttle Saloon, Sturgis

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Schedule from PAGE 230 Two Wheeled Entertainment Aug. 2-4, 6, 9-10: 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Lazelle & Fourth/Event Row, Sturgis Burnout Contest Aug. 2-9: 2 p.m.

Full Throttle Saloon, Sturgis Vintage Motorcycle Show Aug. 4: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

North Sixth St., Custer Vietnam Memorial Wall Aug. 4-9: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily Traveling tribute to Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. Aug. 1-9: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily Field of Flags Buffalo Chip Campground, Sturgis

Pioneer file photo Main Street photo towers Aug. 1-9: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily Main Street, Sturgis Official Main Street photo Aug. 2-9: noon Main and Junction 5 p.m.

Main and 4th, Sturgis Loud American Loud Pipes Parade Aug.: 4-6 p.m.

Lazelle and 4th, Sturgis Chopped Baggers Parade Aug. 4: 4-6 p.m.

Lazelle and 4th, Sturgis Patriotic Motorcycle Parade Aug. 5: 4-6 p.m.

Lazelle and 4th, Sturgis Sport Bike Parade Aug. 6: 4-6 p.m.

Lazelle and 4th, Stugis

LED Light Parade Aug. 6: 9:30-10 p.m.

Main Street to City of Riders Motorcycle Expo Main St., Sturgis

Knuckle Saloon Heads Parade Aug. 7: 4-6 p.m.

Lazelle and 4th, Sturgis

Hamster’s Custom Bike Show Aug. 7: 2-4:30 p.m.

Lazelle and Fourth/Event Row, Sturgis

Lehman/Champion Trikes and Sidecars Parade Aug. 9: 4-6 p.m.

Lazelle and 4th, Sturgis

Harley & the V-Twins Aug. 1-4: 9 p.m.

Live Band Shade Valley Camp Resort, Hwy 34, Sturgis

Schedule as of July 1, 2014.

All dates and times subject to change without prior notice.

Not responsible for misprints or errors.

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s e d i r Top www.bhpioneer.com

in the

Black Hills

Pioneer Staff Reports With Sturgis situated in the heart of the Black Hills, the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is a venue for some of the best riding in the country. From long stretches of highway on the scenic plains, to curves and tunnels through the beautiful Black Hills, there is something for every kind of biker here. Here’s a list of our favorite rides.

Nemo Road

Off Highway 385 Rapid City to Brownsville

A nice, lazy ride through some of the less-populated parts of the Black Hills, Nemo Road offers amazing views, twisty turns and straight highway stretches that promise bikers entertainment and relaxation. Just one trip down this road and you will understand why Sturgis Rally veterans call this “The best kept secret in the Black Hills.” The Nemo Bar & Grill also offers bikers great food and cold drinks for a scenic break from the road that is filled with first-class hospitality.

Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway S.D. Highway 240, Badlands National Park

An approximate 30-mile ride, this highway cuts through the natural rock formations of Badlands National Park. A favorite of bikers who flock to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, this route also features natural grasslands that are filled with hundreds of different species of plants and wild animals. Scenic overlooks also offer great photo opportunities.

Custer State Park

13329 U.S. Highway 16A, Custer

Custer State Park isn’t just home to one of the largest free roaming buffalo herds; it’s so beautiful that the State Game Lodge served as the summer White House for President Calvin Coolidge in 1927. This 71,000-acre vacation paradise is home to abundant wildlife and buffalo herds, making it common to encounter a “Buffalo Jam” while driving in the park. Look for elusive elk, deer, big horn sheep, mountain goats, and bands of begging burros.

Four distinct lodges offer accommodations to suit every family, from rustic and historic to elegant and upscale. All offer unique on-site activities, including Jeep rides to the buffalo herds, guided fly-fishing, and chuckwagon suppers.

There are also endless camping opportunities in the park.

Crazy Horse Memorial

12141 Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse (near Custer)

Crazy Horse Memorial is the world’s largest sculpturein-progress, and frequent drilling and mountain blasts make each visit unique. When completed, Crazy Horse Memorial will stand 563 feet tall. The project was started in 1948 by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski and Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear to honor the heritage, tradition, and culture of North American Indians. Its namesake, Crazy Horse, was a war leader of the Oglala Lakota tribe and a prominent leader in the Sioux resistance to white encroachment in the Black Hills. His bravery and skill are admired, and he is revered by the Sioux as their greatest leader. The complex surrounding the mountain carving includes the Indian Museum of North America, the Native American Cultural Center, the Sculptor’s Studio and a TOP RIDE — PAGE 34

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Belle Fourche to Sturgis via Bear Butte

Riding from Belle Fourche to Sturgis via Bear Butte can only be described as the open prairie or high plains ride. Imagine yourself back in the 1880s riding a spirited horse. When departing from Belle Fourche traveling east bound on S.D. Highway 212, I recommend this route in the later part of the afternoon. You will then have the sun over your right shoulder. Make sure you have your gas tank filled completely, for you will have no opportunity to gas up between Belle Fourche and Sturgis city limits, unless you divert north to Newell at the junction of Highway 212 and Highway 79. The speed limit on 212 is 65 MPH unless otherwise posted. Riding 212 can only be reckoned to riding your horse at full gallop across the plains, but staying at 60-65 MPH is the best speed to enjoy this fluffy cloud-studded, blue-sky route. Make a point of checking the weather forecast for prevailing winds. Prevailing winds in August are typically west to east which will give a very pleasant tailwind from Belle Fourche to Highway 79 southbound. When leaving Belle Fourche, the first major landmark will be the Belle Fourche reservoir on the left (north side of the highway). There are several small towns with cafes serving home cooked style food and cold drinks, well worth stopping. The smooth pavement and long radius curves of Highway 212 are punctuated by hills and rises, so for safety’s sake don’t attempt to pass on those blind curves. Take you time and enjoy the view to the South of the Black Hills. They look black from out on the prairie; that’s how the hills got their name. At the junction of 212 and 79 you’ll turn right heading toward Bear Butte. If you’ve had a tail wind, it’s now a crosswind so stay alert. Also watch for deer on the road. It’s almost a straight shot to the outskirts of the City of Sturgis. You will be able to enjoy an ever changing view of Bear Butte as it grows larger the closer you get. Just before passing Bear Butte you see the Broken Spoke Campground is on the left. Continuing another 5-6 miles, you’ll make a right turn onto Highway 34 (Westbound) passing Glencoe Camp-resort, the Full Throttle Saloon on the way into downtown Sturgis. Total distance is about 55 miles give or take a burnout.

— Buck Lovell

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Top Rides from PAGE 33 40,000-square-foot orientation center and theater. Nightly performances of a multimedia laser-light show spotlight American Indian culture using dramatic animations and a stirring musical score. In June, the Crazy Horse Volksmarch opens a 10K route to hikers that winds around the base of the mountain and up onto Crazy Horse’s outstretched arm. Korczak’s wife and family have continued the project and the Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation. An entrance fee is required to enter the memorial, which is open year-round, and good for one day of admission. Proceeds fund further development of the memorial.

Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway

U.S. Highway 16A/S.D. Highway 87, Custer State Park

This ride is so cool that it deserves mentioning apart from Custer State Park. A 70-mile drive that offers amazing views of the best the Black Hills has to offer. This scenic drive incorporates the Needles Highway (S.D. Hwy. 87) and Iron Mountain Road (U.S. Hwy. 16A). The Needles Highway features hairpin curves, drive-through tunnels, and massive granite formations that draw climbers from all over the world. Iron Mountain Road features pigtail bridges that were constructed in a corkscrew fashion, as well as drive-through tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore.

Lead-Deadwood

Separated by just three miles of highway, but forever joined in their rich history of mining and gaming, the Black Hills’ own Twin Cities offer something for everyone. Visit the Black Hills Mining Museum, Homestake Visitor’s Center or the Adams Museum to see the rich mining and old-west history of this section of the Northern Hills; relax for lunch or dinner at one of the many fine establishments in both towns; browse through the unique selection of gifts and supplies in Lead; or try your luck at a gaming table or slot machine in Deadwood.

But most importantly, residents of Lead-Deadwood are ever-cognizant of the Rally, and welcome the bikers with

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Wildlife Loop ride really wild

If you’re looking for a short ride in between other Rally-related activities, and you’re in the area of Custer State Park, Wildlife Loop Road is perfect. The road itself is very well maintained black top with almost no surprise potholes or other impediments to smooth riding. Don’t even think of going on this little sojourn with some kind of camera, even if it’s just the camera on your cell phone.

Wildlife Loop Road has a strictly enforced speed limit of 35 miles per hour, but if you are like most annual visitors here, you will be stopping frequently to either let the buffalo and other wild critters cross the road in front of you, or to just have a good long look. You won’t find many motorcycle rides that will give close-up views of wildlife as seen here. In many cases, these critters will hold up traffic as they stand blocking the pavement, stare in amazement at you and your vehicle. The rolling hills and open arms. In Lead, bikers can enjoy vendors, entertainment and bike shows throughout the week and in Deadwood, bikers enjoy special parking privileges and other perks.

Jewel Cave National Monument U.S. Highway 16, 13 miles west of Custer

Located in the scenic Hell Canyon Ranger District, the ride to Jewel Cave is a gem in itself with scenic overlooks, hairpin turns and some wildlife sightings.

But once bikers get to the cave, they are absolutely encouraged to stop and stay awhile! Jewel Cave National Monument is not only the second-longest cave in the world, at more than 140 miles and counting, it is also one of the most structurally complex. Located a little more than an hour southwest of Rapid City, Jewel Cave is a regional gem tucked in the Black Hills.

Exploration is ongoing in this pristine underground labyrinth. Visit chambers decorated with calcite, nailhead and dogtooth spar crystals and other wonders like draperies, flowstone and stalactites. The

wide open grassland scenery is studded with many varieties of pine and other trees of all sizes making for very pleasant riding. Wildlife species to be seen here in Custer State Park include antelope, bighorn sheep, buffalo young and old, whitetail deer, elk, coyote, prairie dogs, and all manner of flying fowl including bald eagles and other raptor species. Custer State Park is home to one of the world’s largest buffalo herds. These buffalo live almost as they did before the West was tamed. Every year a roundup is held and buffalo harvested from the ever-growing herd.

Wild “begging” Burros live and play at the southernmost end of Wildlife Loop. While the ride along Wildlife Loop road is only 18 seemingly short miles and could take as little a 30 minutes to transit, you may find it taking just a little bit longer due to frequent stops to enjoy both the animals and the almost “as it was in the 1850s” view. I almost always do this ride both directions during the same day. No burnouts on this ride: it would only frighten the critters.

— Buck Lovell charge. A fee is required for cave tours, which are ranger-guided and are moderately strenuous lasting about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The cave is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. except on holidays. Cave tours have been known to sell out in advance; therefore waiting times could be several hours. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead for tour availability and to reserve tickets. Visit www.nps.gov/ jeca for more information.

Belle Fourche

The name “Belle Fourche” is French for “Beautiful Fork” because of its site on the “Forks” of Hay Creek, the Redwater River, and the Belle Fourche River. Additionally, the quaint little town is known for its status as the geographical “Center of the Nation.” After the addition of Hawaii and Alaska to the United States in 1959, a point 10 miles north of Belle Fourche was named the official geographic center of the United States. The site was originally in Smith Center, Kansas, before it was moved to its new home in Butte County. Visitors can have their photo taken at the monument of a 21-by-40 foot compass rose made of South Dakota granite located at the Center of the Nation Visitor Center in Belle Fourche.

Native American Scenic Byway

This 305.8-mile route takes bikers through the rich history of our Native American population. This ride on the prairie cuts through the heart of South Dakota’s grass prairie through the heart of the Great Sioux Nation. The route takes travelers through Yankton, Crow Creek, Lower Brule, Cheyenne River and Standing Rock Sioux Tribal lands. Along the way, bikers will have a chance to see prairie dogs, pronghorn, deer, bison and elk.

Mammoth Site

1800 U.S. Highway 18 Bypass, Hot Springs

More than 26,000 years ago, large Columbian and woolly mammoths were trapped and died in a spring-fed pond near what is now the southwest edge of Hot Springs.

Discovered in 1974 while excavating for a housing development the Mammoth Site is the world’s largest Columbian mammoth exhibit and research center for Pleistocene studies. It is truly a unique and natural location for the state.

Read more from Buck at BLABB (Buck Lovell’s American Biker Blog) online at www.sturgis.com.

Pioneer file photo

monument’s surface trails and facilities are open free of

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