2021 Black Hills Iron Riding Edition

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Plan for the ride!

Top 10 tips for a successful journey on the bike

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Iron

SPEARFISH — Traveling long distances on a motorcycle is no small feat, and anyone who has put any miles on their bike will tell you that making the right preparations can mean the difference between a blast of a time or the bust of a trip. From packing just enough of the right gear, to making sure your ride is properly maintained and situated for the trip, here are our Top 10 tips for a successful motorcycle tour.

10. Transport mode Sometimes it’s just easier to tie the bike down in a trailer, than to endure those long stretches of road enroute to your riding destination. Particularly for bikers traveling to the Black Hills, or other areas of the country that are known for their twists and turns, some people just want to save their energy for the fun rides instead of wasting it on the Interstate. Hey, we get it! But if you’re going to put the bike on a trailer or in the back of your pickup, make sure to put it in transport mode before you do. On a Harley, simply pressing both turn signals and holding them for five seconds after starting the bike, can ensure that your bike is ready to go when you arrive at your destination. Doing this is important for late-model Harleys that are equipped with security systems that can sound off for the entire trip and drain the battery.

Transport mode will prevent the security system from firing, and can mean the difference between getting in the wind right away when arriving at your destination, or trailering to the nearest dealership for a new battery.

9. Pack light No, you’re probably not going to read all of those magazines or books when you’re on a bike tour, and they can add weight and hassle to your ride. Before packing, know how much weight your bike can handle while still achieving optimal performance, and pack accordingly. Use a scale to weigh individual items or bags of items, to ensure that you have

balanced weight in both saddle bags and in a back hatch.

8. Pack smart Speaking of packing, don’t forget some key essentials. A rain suit is always necessary, as are gloves. Heated gloves are even better for chilly early mornings or late evenings. A full-faced helmet can often mean the difference between mild inconvenience during a rainstorm, and feeling like you’ve been pelted in the face with BB guns.

A basic tool kit with some wrenches, screw drivers, a spool of wire, zip ties, wire snips, and some bolts can keep you from getting stranded on the side of the road. Use the envelope system for long trips. Label envelopes with individual dates of your trip, and put itineraries, reservation confirmations, and other necessary literature and paperwork required for that particular day’s journey. Also, make sure to have all of riding essentials on top or easily accessible. You don’t want to be digging through your saddle bags for things like money, license and registration, and riding gear. Lastly, bring an extra key and store it somewhere easily accessible but not obvious on the bike.

7. Protect yourself Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, lip balm, ear plugs, long sleeves, and pain reliever! Always use more sunscreen than you think you’ll need. While you’re riding, your skin will dry out, making it more susceptible to burns.

6. Prepare your bike Do all of your oil changes, pressure checks, and general bike maintenance before you leave, because doing it on the road presents a risk you don’t want to take when riding long distances.

Black Hills Iron file photos

3. Avoid high traffic areas Plan your trip so that you leave early in the morning and/or arrive in high traffic areas late in the evening. Start-and-stop traffic is a terrible way to start or end a great ride, and it takes unnecessary toll on your bike.

5. Prepare yourself Riding for long distances can be mentally and physically draining. Make sure that you are well hydrated on the trip, and that you have plenty of sleep and are alert to the road.

A hydration backpack is often a useful tool for those who don’t want to take frequent stops.

Additionally, before embarking on a major motorcycle adventure, take several shorter, local trips on your motorcycle. These trips will help train your muscles and your mind for long rides, and in the long run will translate into a much more comfortable, safe trip.

2. Plan your trip Most bikers recommend mapping out your route on a paper map, and checking essentials such as the distance between gas stations, traffic forecasts, and construction sites. Be sure to share your itinerary and route with loved ones back home, so they can have an idea for where you are if there are problems or an emergency arises. Pack a small gas can to serve as an extra boost on long stretches in between towns. Make hotel or campground reservations ahead of time, and allow yourself plenty of time to get from stop to stop.

4. Make sure your have a 1. But don’t overplan Overplanning your trip with too many comfortable seat Gel seats are worth their weight in gold, but some bikers will even switch out seats periodically throughout the ride, in order to change pressure points that are impacted along the way.

miles in one day can cause fatigue and sore muscles that can seriously impair your riding ability. Also, tight deadlines can kill the joy of the trip. So, give yourself a break and some time to explore the regions you will be riding to! Above all, enjoy the ride!

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www.bhpioneer.com Courtesy illustration

Rebuilding a bike — Rebuilding lives

‘Build Abbott’ bike rebuild helps foster care children make life connections

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Iron

foster kids understand that they have the power to take control and build their own lives into something beautiful.

“Build Abbott” is a three-month classroom project that gives youth involved with the Bridges by Abbott House foster care program in Rapid City the chance to work with custom bike builders, to learn how to build a motorcycle. It was originally the brainchild of custom builder Laura Klock, of Klockwerks Customs in Mitchell, S.D. when Klock started her Helping With Horsepower project to work

with ladies in the Abbott House residenmeet at Black Hills Harley-Davidson tial inpatient treatment program. From to work. Katie and her husband, James, 2011 to 2017 Abbott House residents teach the kids about various components RAPID CITY — There was nothing helped build a bike to be raffled off to of the bike and techniques, and the kids particularly special about the 2013 Road benefit the facility. put their newfound knowledge to work on King when kids from the Abbott House This year, Katie and James Washnok, the build. Additionally, the class includes foster care program first laid eyes on it. owners of Blackout marketing instruction But by the time they finish re-building Industries, worked with from Black Hills Harleythe bike and crafting the parts to match representatives from Davidson sales staff. the inspiration the project has given them, Black Hills Harley“Hosting something it will truly be a work of art. The project Davidson and Rapid City like this for the kids is to rebuild and rejuvenate the motorcycle Abbott House officials huge for us to be able into a beautiful piece of art helps the to resurrect the program to help the community to benefit the foster care and do our part, since arm of Abbott House. we do have this huge Bridges by Abbott House facility,” said Andrew foster care program has Reiman, general manager two residential facilities of Black Hills Harleyin Rapid City.

Davidson. “There’s plenVirginia Wishard ty of room for them to do Lambert, director of everything they need and development at Abbott they’re exposed to moHouse said the bike build torcycling in general on is extremely important in — Andrew Reiman a bigger level, because the kids’ lives. they’ve gotten to see the “I think for them it is really an opwhole process. We talked to them about portunity to work as a team and to give the things that go into selling a motorcysomething life again, kind of like they’re cle, so they can build the right bike to get doing with their own lives,” she the most for their organization.” said. “They’re working on improvKatie Washnok said the whole experiing their own life and at the same ence of teaching the kids has been amazKatie and James Washnok, of Blackout time they’re working together to ing, as she watches them make consistent Industries, teach a class about custom bike give this bike a new life.” positive connections between their building to foster children from Abbott House This year the class of 24 students lives and building the bike. Nationwide in Rapid City. Courtesy photo is broken up into four groups that support for the project has also been

“Hosting something like this for the kids is huge for us to be able to help the community and do our part, since we do have this huge facility.”

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www.bhpioneer.com heartwarming, as there have been many parts and monetary donations for the bike. The staff at Black Hills Harley has also been great to work with, she said.

“The greater motorcycle community has really supported this project,” Washnok said. “Every time we’ve been there all of these guys jump at the chance to help us. The impromptu mentor roles have been really, really cool. You get these big bikers who are big tough guys, and they’re all just teddy bears. The Black Hills has such a great heart. I can’t wait to see their response when we finish.”

As part of the project, Washnok said the kids had a contest to design the paint colors and to name the motorcycle. The winning name, “Inspire,” couldn’t be more fitting, she said.

“Each of these kids is a true inspiration, making the name of this bike even more fitting,” Washnok said. “We feel honored to work with this outstanding group of young people, raising money for such a worthy cause. The Abbott House is an invaluable asset to the most worthy of our community, as they help kids from across the state of South Dakota. We can’t wait for the public debut of this one of a kind custom motorcycle, and to celebrate all of the kid’s hard work!”

Abbott House Executive Director Eric Klooz said, “All of the enhancements – the unique design, new handle bars, saddle bags, exhaust and other features, and hands-on work helps our youth understand they have the power and the skills to improve the motorcycle all while

improving their own lives.”

Once the bike is completed it will be raffled off, with proceeds used to provide therapy and education for children in the Bridges by Abbott House Foster Care program. Only 750 tickets will be sold at $100 each. The bike, a completely refurbished 2013 Harley-Davidson Road King

Katie Washnok, of Blackout Industries, teaches a class about custom bike building to foster children from Abbott House in Rapid City.

Courtesy photos

with 13,000 miles on it, will be unveiled when the Abbott House opens its newest foster home in Rapid City, June 8. After that, the next time the public can see the bike in person will be June 10 for Rapid City Summer Nights in downtown Rapid.

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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 Sona O’Connell, advertising manager Katie Hartnell, layout Foster children from Abbott House have been working to refurbish a 2013 Harley-Davidson Road King that will be raffled off to raise money for Abbott House in Rapid City.

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Cover photo courtesy Letti Lister.

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. © 2021 BLACK HILLS IRON, all rights reserved.

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Harley unveils new e-bike division

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Iron

RAPID CITY — An electronic bicycle worthy of the Harley-Davidson name has hit the market, and urban commuters will not be disappointed.

The Serial 1 Cycle, powered by HarleyDavidson, is the newest division of the motor company intended to satisfy the needs of those who commute long distances on a bicycle. The name refers to Harley’s “Serial Number One,” which was the first bike the company built in 1903.

The bike comes in four different models — the Mosh/ CTY, Rush/CTY Step-thru, the Rush/ CTY Stepover, and the Rush/CTY Speed each vary in price between $3,399 and $4,999. According to the Harley-Davidson website, the first three models can reach speeds up to 20 mph, while the Rush/CTY Speed can get up to 28 mph. Model sizes range from small to extra

large, but the step-thru model can only go up to a size large. Another important difference is the battery, with the first two models reaching 529Wh, and the higher-end models featuring a much more powerful battery of 706Wh. The bikes also feature a mid-mounted motor with integrated battery, integrated lighting and internal brake lines and wiring.

Mike Maloney, marketing director for Black Hills HarleyDavidson, said the bike was released in March. However, it is primarily available in urban areas, where the commuter market is strong.

“We’re not a dealer yet,” Maloney said of the local Rapid City store. “The e-bicycle program is it currently sits, are commuter bikes and we don’t have much of a commuter community in the bicycling world in the Black Hills.”

Maloney said the

Courtesy photo

motor company has announced that it intends to explore electronic mountain bike development, but those plans are still developing.

“According to the HarleyDavidson website, the first three models can reach speeds up to 20 mph, while the Rush/CTY Speed can get up to 28 mph.”

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Pan American 1250

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— Harley’s new adventure

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Iron

LEAD — Harley-Davidson has taken adventure riding to a whole new level with its new Pan American 1250.

According to the motor company’s website, the latest model Harley-Davidson rolled out in 2021 is billed as a “two-wheeled multi-tool that is built to endure, designed to explore, and engineered for adventure.” The motorcycle combines the function and utility of a trail-riding dirt bike, with the comfort, speed and features Harley riders have come to appreciate in street bikes.

“The Pan American is HarleyDavidson’s first adventure touring model, which is a completely different section of the motorcycle industry,” said Mike Maloney, marketing manager for Black

Hills Harley-Davidson. Maloney, who loves to take dirt bikes on the trails of the Black Hills, said he is particularly excited about this model. “Adventure touring is both on road and off road. This is a Harley-Davidson that you can take off road and on to the trails, on to the fire trails, and all across the world.

There are a lot of places where you want to do a lot of miles and tour and see all kinds of things, and concrete doesn’t always lead you there. So, Harley-Davidson built a premium, very competitive adventure touring motorcycle.”

The bike comes in two models, the standard and the special. Both models come with cruise control, electronic ride modes, linked brakes, lean-angle aware traction control, cornering ABS, linked brakes, hill hold,

drag-torque slip control, LED lighting, adjustable windscreen, phone connectivity and blue tooth capability. The standard model features a manually adjustable suspension.

The Pan America 1250 Special packs a punch of special features. Most importantly, the special model includes an electronic suspension that can automatically or manually raise to allow for ground clearance on the trails, just as easily as it lowers for safe stopping at a traffic light. An aluminum skid plate, engine guards, hand guards, heated grips, a center stand, tire pressure monitor, a multi-position rear brake pedal, and two customizable ride modes round out the features on the advanced model.

The V-Twin motor, is specifically designed for low-end torque and a low speed throttle response. Variable Valve Timing also helps improve efficiency and power to the motor that many reviewers say can be fully load-

Courtesy photos

ed with a passenger and full bags, without losing performance. The Revolution Max 1250 engine is a structural component of the bike’s chassis, which does not have a traditional frame. The design significantly reduces weight and increases maneuverability.

The bike features a low center of gravity and super rigid frame.

“This takes someone who either came from the dirt bike road and wants to spend time on the street, but who wants to hit a fire trail once in awhile and not be afraid to go on the gravel,” Maloney said. “Or, it takes guys who have only spent time on the concrete and they’ve driven by a couple of gravel turnoffs on the road and wonder, ‘what’s down that road,’ and they’ve never been able to do it. This will be the bike that can take them there.”

Maloney said the new model is expected to hit dealerships in May.

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Courtesy Photo

Bagger Drags coming to the Hills

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Iron

the ankle boots, full length pants, long sleeved shirt and a jacket.

“The trend in the V-Twin industry right STURGIS — It’s street racing in the now is racing and performance,” Maloney safest way possible, when Black Hills said.

“There is a national series that are Harley-Davidson and Sturgis Dragway racing Harley-Davidson and V-Twin bring Bagger Drags to the track this summotorcycles against mer! each other on tracks The need to demonstrate which are like road race speed and performance is courses. We wanted to great amongst the V-Twin bring the national trend community, and Mike to the Black Hills. We Maloney, marketing director don’t have any road race for Black Hills Harleycourses, so the only safe Davidson said the company and effective way we can plans to fulfill that niche do that is to partner with here in the Black Hills.

Sturgis Dragway and Races will be held June 19, — Mike Maloney have racing on the dragJuly 17, and Sept. 11. The strip. This is as close to gates will open at 4 p.m., street racing as you can get, while being and the track will go hot at 5 p.m. The safe.” entrance fee will be $5 at the gate, and Maloney explained that all bikers racers will pay $15 each to participate. who own a street-legal, factory All racers are asked to wear full safety motorcycle with saddle gear, including a helmet, gloves, over

“The trend in the V-Twin industry right now is racing and performance ”

bags are invited to compete in the bracket-style races. Racers will make two practice runs to determine their average time.

Then when they race, the participant who comes in closest to their average time will win.

“If my bike is slower than yours, it doesn’t matter,” Maloney said. “It comes down to who is the most consistent. The most consistent rider and motorcycle will win a bracket race.”

Trophies will be awarded to participants who have the fastest time, the fastest reaction time, and the best burnout.

For more information visit blackhillshd. com or sturgisdrags.com.

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Wild Bill Motorcycle Classic kicks off summer bike runs

By Jaci Conrad Pearson Black Hills Iron

DEADWOOD — Running with the pack doesn’t need to wait until August, as June 19, the third annual Wild Bill Motorcycle Classic & Poker Run opens full throttle in Deadwood during Wild Bill Days.

“The main focus of our classic is going to be the Poker Run, which will be held on Saturday … through the Northern Black Hills,” said Tom Koth, event founder and organizer. “We’ll have registration from noon to five at West River Whiskey on Friday and then between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. at the Welcome Center on Saturday. The main focus of our Poker Run is to do it as locally as we can and to benefit a veteran’s organization.”

The following six locations will be featured on June 19’s Wild Bill Motorcycle Classic Poker Run route: Deadwood to Sturgis Harley, to Nemo Mercantile via Vanocker Canyon, to Trevino Leather, to Cheyenne Crossing, to Latchstring Inn in Spearfish Canyon, to Bullwhackers in Whitewood, and back to Deadwood.

As one of Deadwood’s newest events, Koth said the event continues to grow each year.

“It’s a building process that we’ve been trying to establish these last three years,” Koth said. “The main focus of our event is to help out veterans organizations in the region. This year’s donations for the Poker Run will be to the Black Hills National Cemetery, the Avenue of Flags. There’s a group out of Rapid City, the American Legion, that helps with the maintenance of the flags, the flag poles, and all of the hardware. And we’ve been in contact with those folks and we’re excited to team up with them to help their cause.”

Koth developed the idea for the Wild Bill Motorcycle Classic four years ago when Wild Bill Days attendance began trending downward. In order to help boost attendance, Koth suggested having Deadwood’s own motorcycle rally.

“My main focus was to bring more people to Deadwood in the spring, help out our local businesses, and get something established in the spring of the year and cater to

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ssic will b rcycle Cla to o M l il d’s Wild B Wild Bill Days.

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the local motorcycle enthusiast that may not want to go out riding the first week of August during another rally,” Koth said. “I found there was a lot of interest in that. A lot of feedback from people that said, ‘Hey, we want to participate in an event, but we don’t want to have to deal with 500,000 people.’”

Koth said, as a result, he placed a focus on developing an event that brought an opportunity for motorcycle enthusiasts to ride in the spring.

“These motorcycle riders are itching to get out and ride their bikes in the spring,” Koth said. “I think it’s a perfect fit. And I hope that people realize that this is some-

thing that Deadwood could really build on and have its own identity for the motorcycle community.”

The Wild Bill Motorcycle Class registration fee is $20. All Poker Run cards must be returned to West River Whiskey Company by 5 p.m. June 19 and winners will be announced on the Main Street stage at 7 p.m., just prior to the free Wild Bill Days concert entertainment.

Exclusive Main Street parking is available to Wild Bill Motorcycle Classic participants from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. June 18-19 on Lower Main Street from Wild Bill Bar to Belle Joli Winery and at the Celebrity Hotel Parking Lot on Main Street.

Deadwood 3 Wheeler Rally trikes into town July 11-16

By Jaci Conrad Pearson Black Hills Iron

DEADWOOD — It’s the most fun on three wheels Deadwood will see all summer, as the Deadwood 3 Wheeler Rally (DW3R) makes its way to town July 11-16.

DW3R Event Coordinator Teresa Schanzenbach said the 3 Wheeler Rally is now in its seventh year.

“And each year we try to add some sort of new dynamic to the event in order to keep it fresh and fun for those who return each year,” Schanzenback said. “This year, we have the Sioux Falls band ‘6 Feet Over’ playing four nights and will be doing Karaoke on Tuesday.

We discovered Karaoke was quite popular after we used it as a substitution when our contracted band came down with COVID in 2020.”

Also new this year is a homemade pie and ice cream fundraiser for the Road Warrior Foundation.

“A group of Road Warriors riding across the United States will join us on Monday before the last leg of their trip takes them to Mount Rushmore,” Schanzenbach said.

“Later in the week we will do a ‘Cowboy Shoot-Out’ fundraiser involving oversized cowboy hats and Nerf guns. It should be a big hit.”

Other new items on the itinerary include a “Do Deadwood” scavenger hunt and a “Ladies Only” ride to Keystone on July 13.

The D3WR is expected to bring in between 850 and 1,000 registrants and more than 600 trikes.

“We are currently the largest trike rally in the United States and have all makes and models of trikes from CanAms and Harleys to Slingshots, VanderHalls, and any number of other custom and conversion kit trikes,”

Schanzenbach said.

D3WR officials are very happy with how the event has grown during its relatively short existence.

“The participants love coming to the Black Hills for great riding and to take in iconic tourist attractions like Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and, of course, Historic Deadwood, just to mention a few,” Schanzenbach said. “From the beginning, the intent of this rally was to invite trike riders from around the country to enjoy our beautiful state and leave with the desire to return each year. So, we roll out the red carpet for our registrants, put on a big South Dakota smile and treat them like family.”

The D3WR itinerary is designed for rally-goers to participate in as much or as little as they want.

“Our goal is to get the riders back to Deadwood in the late afternoon or early evening to a social where they can get something cold to drink, listen to music, and relive their riding adventures with friends old and new and still have time to take in the excitement of downtown,” Schanzenbach said.

The D3WR was developed in 2015 for a more mature motorcycle crowd that was once on two wheels, but because of health or age, have transitioned to riding a trike.

“This did not make them any less of a rider, but it did present an opportunity to get together riders with similar interests and bring them to Deadwood, South Dakota,” Schanzenbach said. “This

group of riders continues to grow and, as a result, we suspect the Deadwood 3 Wheeler Rally will continue to grow, as well.”

Opportunities for the general public to enjoy the Contact teresas@firstgold.com for more information or for a registration form via email. Register by phone by calling (605) 717-7174.

Black Hills Iron file photo

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Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame names 2021 Inductees

STURGIS — The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame has announced the Hall of Fame inductees for 2021.

Those chosen include Deb Butitta, Fred Kodlin, Jared Mees, Mike Corbin, Nick

Trask, Rick Ball, and Wayne and Donna Pingel.

The induction breakfast ceremony will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 11 at The Lodge at Deadwood. Tickets are on sale

now at https://www.sturgismuseum.com/ hof. For corporate tables, call Emma at (605) 347-2001 The Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame is designed to recognize individuals or

Hall of Fame inductees include:

Nick Trask

Nick Trask

Nick Trask was introduced to motorcycles and racecars at a young age.

Following high school, Trask worked his way through an automotive apprenticeship program and went on to build a lot of custom cars. Trask came across an ad for a motorcycle tech school in the United States. He applied and a few months later sold everything he had and came to America. Shortly after graduating from motorcycle tech school, Trask hopped on his Harley and headed to Sturgis. Trask’s passion for performance machines and crazy aesthetics lead him to be at the forefront of “Assault” style motorcycles.

Fred Kodlin

Fred Kodlin

Deborah Buttita

Deborah Buttita

Freedom Fighter Class of 2021

Pushing the boundaries of what a motorcycle can be, Fred Kodlin has built a reputation for radical custom bike building, cutting-edge product design and high-quality manufacturing. Paving the way to owning his own business, Kodlin completed a master’s degree in vehicle construction and blacksmithing. That led to the opening of Kodlin Motorcycles. Under Kodlin’s leadership and vision for more than 36 years, Kodlin has built a reputation for unique hybrid designs.

Wayne & Donna Pingel Jared Mees

Jared Mees

With each additional main event victory, Jared Mees continues to rewrite the Progressive American Flat Track record books.

With three Grand National Championships to his name, Mees has elevated his game to new heights. Perhaps most notable of all is Mees’ enhanced ability at the mile venues, culminating in a perfect six-for-six sweep in 2019. Mees is both admired and feared for his tenacity, fitness, and determination. He’s also a family man and aspiring businessman, serving as the event promoter of the Lima Half-Mile with his wife, Nichole.

Wayne and Donna Pingel

Wayne Pingel opened a motorcycle parts and service shop called Motorsport Sales and Construction in 1967. His focus was building choppers, rebuilding

Rick Ball was born and raised in Sylmar, Calif., a suburb of Los Angeles. Even before he was a teenager, Ball found himself tinkering on his minibike to make it go faster. As an adult, Ball’s passion for drag racing and motorcycles is why RC Components grew in the drag racing world. Over the next few years, RC Components became the first ever to build their own brake rotors to match their wheels, and then did the same for their pulleys. During the Chopper days, Ball designed a brake rotor to be a part of the pulley to leave the other side of the wheel nice and clean.

Deborah Buttita was born and raised in Rockford, Ill., to a modest family. As a young girl, Buttita was around motorcycles and by high school could be seen riding on the back of her boyfriend’s motorcycle.

In the early 90s, Buttita was introduced to ABATE of Arizona. In 1994, she joined the Motorcycle Riders Foundation. During her tenure with the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, Buttita held three different positions, including corporate secretary for eight years. Currently, Buttita is on the Motorcycle Riders Foundation Board of Directors, and she is the chairman for the Motorcycle Riders Foundation Awareness and Education Board of Directors.

Harley-Davidson engines, custom fabrication and sandblasting. In 1973, Wayne and Donna were married. They were a good fit, because Donna had an interest in motorcycling too. In 1980, Wayne and Donna decided to ride to Sturgis – that was to be their first time. In the early 80s, business started getting better and the Harley-Davidson factory was using a few of their products on the XR750 and so were custom bike builders. They expanded their product line with drag racing components. For the company to be more easily identified, the name was changed to Pingel Enterprise, Inc. in 1986. Wayne and Donna have worked side by side and say they are thankful for their journey together in the motorcycle industry.

Mike Corbin (pre-2001 inductee)

Rick Ball

Rick Ball

groups who have made a long-term positive impact on the motorcycling community.

Following are the inductees:

Mike Corbin

2021 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient

As a first-generation American born of Irish immigrants, Mike Corbin’s journey tells a classic American tale.

In his early 20s, Corbin was attending a motorcycle rally on his customized Norton when he was asked to sell the homemade seat right off the bike. After prolonged pestering, he sold the seat and rode on a balled up leather jacket. In 2000, Corbin was inducted into the National Motorcycle H.O.F, the American Motorcyclist Association H.O.F. and was also among the very first inductees into the Sturgis Motorcycle H.O.F. When asked what it meant to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, Corbin said it was especially significant because it bears the Arlen Ness name, someone who was such a pillar of the industry for so long.

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Perewitz named 2021Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Grand Marshal STURGIS — The city of Sturgis announced that Jody Perewitz will be the 2021 City of Sturgis Grand Marshal during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

Perewitz has become one of the most recognizable women in the motorcycle industry today. She has paved her own way into history by becoming the first woman to ever jockey an American V-Twin powered motorcycle into the record books Jody at well over 200 mph. Perewitz She currently holds 16 land speed records, one of which is a world record.

In 2018, Perewitz rode a 1926 Harley-Davidson JD to complete all the miles from Portland, Maine to Portland,

Jody Perewitz was named the grand marshal for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

Courtesy photo

Ore., becoming one of only three women to complete the entire Cannonball.

Jody also competed in the “Motorcycle Chase”, an endurance race across the country from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to Key West. She successfully finished this race riding a 1936 Harley-Davidson VLH. When Perewitz is not on two wheels, she handles the marketing and dayto-day activities at Perewitz Cycle

Fabricators, located in Halifax, Mass., where she works side by side with her father, legend Dave Perewitz. The Perewitz name is world renown in the custom

motorcycle industry and is known for producing some of the most sought-after customs.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally will take place Aug. 6-15. To learn more visit: https://sturgismotorcyclerally.com.

Learn more about the Perewitz Fab shop at: https://www.facebook.com/Perewitz.

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Rides, Runs, & Races May

Sturgis Dragway Events Sturgisdrags.com May 22, 23 - Bracket Racing

June Sturgis Dragway Events Sturgisdrags.com June 4 - Street Legals June 5, 6 - Bracket Racing June 18 - Street Legals and Big/Small Tire Shooutouts June 19, 20 - Bracket Racing June 25 - Camaro Invitational June 26 - Bracket Racing

July Black Hills Harley-Davidson Events: www.blackhillshd.com July 10 - DAV Poker Run and Scavenger Hunt July 10 - Bagger Drags July 31 - Aug. 1 - Pre-Rally Roll-out Aug. 4 - The Rally at Exit 55 begins 5TH Annual Deadwood 3 Wheeler Rally www.d3wr.com July 11-16 Sturgis Dragway Events Sturgisdrags.com July 2 - Street Legals July 3 - Bracket Racing July 16 - Corvette Only Drags July 17 - NHRA King of the Track - Junior Dragster Challenge July 18 - NHRA King of the Track July 30 - Street Legals July 31 - Bracket Racing

Schedule of Events — 2021 August

Buffalo Chip Events: www.buffalochip.com Aug 8 - Reverend Horton Heat and Kid Rock Aug 9 - Legends Ride Kickoff Aug 9 - Stone Temple Pilots Aug 11 - Rusty Wallace Charity Ride Kickoff Aug 11 - ZZ Top Aug 12 - Black Label Society and Anthrax Aug 13 - Black Stone Cherry and Shinedown Aug 14 - From Ashes to New and P.O.D Full Throttle Saloon Events: www.fullthrottlesaloon.com Aug 8 - Colt Dord Aug 9 - Tesla Aug 10 - Saliva Aug 11 - Wynonna Aug. 12 - Jackyl Iron Horse Saloon www.Ihsturgis.com Aug 7 - SAUL and 10 Years Aug 8 - Chancey WIlliams Aug 9 - Almost Folsom, ONE (Metallica tribute), Hairball Aug 10 - Almost Folsom, ONE (Metallica tribute), Hairball

Aug 11 - Almost Folsom, Hairball Aug 12 - Almost Folsom, Hairball

JACKPINE Gypsies Events: www.jackpinegypsies.com Aug 6 - Xtreem Flat Track Rally Championship Aug 7 - GP Motocross Aug 7 - Xtreem Flat Track Rally Championship Aug 8 - Motocross Race Aug 9 - Pro Hill Climb Aug 10 - Pro Verta-X Aug 10 - AHRMA Flat Track Rally Championship Aug 11 - Pro Am. Verta-X Aug 12 - Gypsie Tour Aug 12 - AHRMA TT Championship Aug 13 - Pro Am. Hill Climb Aug 13 - Pro Am Flat Track Aug 14 - DRT Racing, 2021 AMA ‘Battle of the Rallies’ Dirt Track Championship

Sturgis Dragway Events Sturgisdrags.com Aug 6 - Street Legals Aug 7 - Big/Small Tire Shootout Aug 8 - Nitro Move-in and Test and Tune. Gamblers Race Aug 9 - AHDRA Nitro Drags Qualifying Aug 10 - AHDRA Nitro Drags Finals Aug 11, 12 - Held open for rain day Aug 13 - Diesel Drags. Show and Shine.

Sturgis Events: www.sturgissuperstore.com Aug. 4 - Director’s Sunrise Ride Aug. 6, 10, 13 - Ride with a Local Aug. 7 - Mayor’s Pub Crawl Aug. 7 - Mayor’s Ride Aug. 8 - Legendary 5K Run Aug. 10 - The Legendary Sturgis Adventure Ride

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Spearfish Canyon on Two Wheels

Top rides in the Black Hills Pioneer Staff Reports

SPEARFISH — With Sturgis situated in the heart of the Black Hills, the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is the 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. The following is 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

Sundance, Wyo., to Devils Tower Sundance, Wyo., sits astride Interstate 90 approximately 53 miles west of the city of Sturgis. With a population of 1,139 souls, Sundance is visitor friendly, especially during Sturgis Rally days, and hosts a permanent full service Harley-Davidson dealer with everything from T-shirts to leathers and rain gear. I recommend you start this ride during the mid-morning hours and return during the evening. If you do this, you’ll have the sun at your back both directions. Leaving Sundance northwest on Highway 14, it is a continuous uphill climb into heavily timbered wild territory with panoramic views all around. The speed limit is 65 mph unless otherwise posted; you probably won’t get into sixth gear on the way up to Devils Tower. Pay attention while on Highway 14: wild deer abound. If you see one, there are probably several more nearby, their favorite pastime being unexpectedly dashing across the road after hearing the noise from your loud pipes. When you get to the junction of Highway 14 and

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 Highway 24, you’ll turn northbound to finish the ride to Devils Tower National Monument. At several locations midway from the junction to Devils Tower along Highway 24, spectacular views of small canyon escarpments with rocky overhangs beg for attention from you and your camera. As you continue riding uphill, the top of Devils Tower will begin to be visible as it rises above the horizon. At 5,112 feet above sea level, Devils Tower is the predominant landscape feature of the area. The rocky tower itself is a full 867 feet from its base to the summit. The Belle Fourche River slowly meanders away eastward 1,267 below the tower.

When heading back to Sundance, preferably in the mid-evening hours, the long slow descent makes it easy to enjoy the grand views of the terrain and typically white clouded blue skies. So majestic is the roadside scenery here, you may find yourself wanting to make this ride more than once, with the images of the first riding sticking in your subconscious. Total mileage here (round trip) is approximately 56 miles, give or take a burnout.

— Buck Lovell

If you’re a regular attendee of the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, chances are you’ve ridden Spearfish Canyon at least once, and probably more frequently. Spearfish Canyon is older than the Grand Canyon if you can believe that!

It’s smooth, well maintained, and its curvaceous pavement is a joy to ride for any bike/motorcyclist. The 35 mph speed limit allows the canyon walls to talk back to you in the form of your motorcycle’s reflected exhaust note. If you’ve never ridden the canyon, it’s about time you did. It’s an unforgettable motoring treat for any rider or driver. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for excessive speed vehicles; some riders can’t resist a little extra speed. Keep your eyes on the road though; you can stop almost anywhere in the canyon to take a longer look at one

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 sculpture-in-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 40,000-square-foot orientation center and theater. Nightly performances

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of the many different spots of interest.

Starting at the mouth of the canyon at the extreme east end of Spearfish, the road takes vehicles past the golf course and into the verdant and summer leafy steepwalled canyon. Halfway up the canyon is Spearfish Canyon Lodge, a great place for lunch if you don’t want to wait to arrive at Cheyenne Crossing, world famous for its burgers and hospitality. A quarter-mile hike down the trail-footpath below the lodge will get you to Spearfish Falls; don’t forget your camera. If you skip the lodge stop, and continue almost another 10 miles, you’ll get to the aforementioned Cheyenne Crossing at the junction of Highway 85. Make a left and head for Lead, S.D. It’s an uphill climb away from Cheyenne Crossing, and the speed limit is 55 mph. Throttle up, but stay within the speed limit. Continue through Lead, then Deadwood, and before you know it, you’re in Sturgis. See you on the Road.

— Buck Lovell 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 to hikers a 10K route 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! The 70-mile drive offers amazing views of the best the Black Hills has to offer. This scenic drive incorporates the Needles Highway (S.D. Highway 87) and Iron Mountain Road (U.S. Highway 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 Top Rides Pg 18

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Top Rides from Pg 17 table or slot machine in Deadwood. But most importantly, residents of Lead-Deadwood are ever-cognizant of the Rally and welcome the bikers with 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!

Belle Fourche The name “Belle Fourche” is French for “Beautiful Fork” because of its site on the “Forks” of Hay Creek, Redwater River, and 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 geological center of the United States. The site was originally in Smith Center, Kan., 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.

Wind Cave National Park

26611 US Highway 385, Hot Springs Caves are one of the Black Hills’ most mysterious and intriguing wonders. To do your exploring underground, visit Wind Cave National Park. Stretching more than 100 miles, Wind Cave is one of the longest caves in the world, and the first cave to be designated a national park. With a maze-like, underground chamber system, Wind Cave features the world’s largest concentration of box work, a rare formation of thin calcite fins that resemble honeycombs. Above ground, Wind Cave National Park includes a wildlife sanctuary of 28,295 acres for antelope, bi-

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 without some kind of camera, even if it’s just the camera in your cell phone. Wildlife Loop Road has a strictly enforced speed limit of 35 mph, 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 and stare in amazement at you and your vehicle. The rolling hills and wide

www.bhpioneer.com son, elk, prairie dogs, and other creatures to roam. Here, the ponderosa pine forest meets the rolling prairie, one of the last remaining mixed grassland areas in existence. The cave’s visitor center is open daily except holidays. An admission fee is required to tour the cave. A list of tour options can be viewed at www.nps.gov/wica.

Native American

Scenic Byway

This 305.8-mile route takes bikers through the rich history and wildlife attractions of our American Indian population. It 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 Tribes. Along the way, bikers will have a chance to see some wildlife, including prairie dogs, pronghorn, deer, bison, and elk.

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, 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, white tail 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 with 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

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 four-legged horse.

When departing from Belle Fourche traveling eastbound on S.D. Highway 212, I recommend this route be traveled during 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 flowstone, and stalactites. The monument’s surface trails and facilities are open free of 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.

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.

Bear Butte

Highway 79, Sturgis It’s simply not possible to come to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and not see one of the Black Hills’ natural wonders — Bear Butte. But seeing it and experiencing it are two different things, and all bikers should take in the scenic beauty and spiritual feeling of this site, named “Mato Paha” (Bear Mountain) by the Lakota Sioux for its resemblance to a sleeping bear. This geological formation is one of several intrusions of igneous rock in the Black Hills that formed millions of years ago. The mountain is sacred to many American Indian tribes, who go there to hold

79 southbound. When leaving Belle Fourche, the first major landmark will be Belle Fourche Reservoir on the left (north side of the highway). There are several small towns with cafés serving home-cooked style food and cold drinks, which are 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 your 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 on the left. Continuing another 5-6 miles, you’ll make a right turn onto Highway 34 (westbound) on the way into downtown Sturgis. Total distance is about 55 miles, give or take a burnout.

— Buck Lovell

religious ceremonies to this day. Also, Bear Butte was once used by multiple tribes as a meeting point to discuss the advancement of the white man onto their lands. Bikers at the Sturgis Rally can take advantage of the hiking trails to the top of the mountain, or just cruise on by the natural wonder located six miles northeast of Sturgis off Highway 79.

Mount Rushmore 13000 SD Highway 244, Keystone

Who can take a trip to Sturgis without stopping to see our nation’s Shrine of Democracy? Every year that visit gets better as there are continual improvements at the famed monument! This internationally recognized “Shrine of Democracy” is located only 17 miles from Rapid City. Surrounded

by Black Hills National Forest, the memorial protrudes from the granite with the faces of George Washington, commander of the Revolutionary Army and our nation’s first president; Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence; Abraham Lincoln, who abolished slavery in the U.S.; and Theodore Roosevelt, who reformed corruption and is responsible for our national’s national parks system and for conserving wildlife. The site also features mountain goats, the Avenue of Flags, an interactive museum, and a new visitors’ center. Visitors can also follow the Presidential Trail to the base of the mountain. An evening lighting ceremony is also a sight to see during the summer months, and it begins at 9 p.m. Additionally, if you’ve already traveled the common route to the mountain through Keystone, try entering through the back way on Highway 244, which offers some unique scenic sights and a relaxing ride through the Hills.

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

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