Black Hills Iron Rally Edition 2019

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Harley-Davidson’s first electric motorcycle — LiveWire

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BY CODY ERTMAN Black Hills Iron

gears to run through, allows the LiveWire to go from 0 to 60 in only three seconds.

RAPID CITY — In July 2018, “This is not a bike that is for Harley-Davidson announced to the faint of heart,” said Terry the world their plans to expand Rymer, general manager and into the world of electric motorco-owner of Black Hills Harleycycles. They released several deDavidson. “It’s the real deal. It’s sign ideas and a rocket ship. a prototype It’s extremely to their first performance planned reoriented.” lease of a moLiveWire torcycle called also features This is not a bike LiveWire, a a lightweight fully electric that is for the faint frame and an powered moadjustable of heart. It’s the real torcycle with suspension a unique dedeal. It’s a rocket system for sign scheme. riders to dial ship. It’s extremely The anin the ride nouncement performance they want. of LiveWire The power oriented. was part of a source of larger marketLiveWire is a ing strategy Terry Rymer, high voltage, designed to Black Hills Harleylithium-ion get more peoDavidson battery. ple worldwide There are GM and co-owner onto a Harleysome factors Davidson moinvolved in torcycle. This battery life plan, named More Roads to Harley-Davidson, and range, but Harley-Davidson is advertising that LiveWire is detailed certain goals Harleyable to travel anywhere from Davidson wants to achieve by 80 to 140 miles at full charge, the year 2022. The plan includes depending on the type of riding the release of many new models and on environmental factors. to expand their customer base.

LiveWire features two LiveWire is the first of the new charging options for the batmodel releases and will be availtery. The first is the onboard able in August 2019.

Level 1 charger, which can be LiveWire features the brandconnected to a household outlet new H-D Revelation powertrain, and will recharge the motorwhich is a permanent magnet cycle overnight. For a quicker, electric motor capable of achievon-the-go charge, LiveWire can ing 100 percent of the rated be charged at a Level 3 DC Fast torque instantly. This, coupled Charge station. Full charge can with the fact that the LiveWire be reached in a little over an has no transmission, clutch, or

“

”

Courtesy photos hour at one of these stations.

Black Hills Harley-Davidson in Rapid City has chosen to become a LiveWire dealer. They are in the process of getting ready to carry the LiveWire, but before they can carry the motorcycle, they need to build a few charging stations at the dealership and have their mechanics trained to work on them. With all this yet to do, it is likely that they won’t carry the LiveWire until next summer. However, Black Hills Harley-Davidson is accepting pre-orders, and they

have even sold several already.

Harley-Davidson has several other designs for electric motorcycles to accompany LiveWire in the future. Recently, HarleyDavidson opened a new facility in Silicon Valley to design, improve, and develop their electric motorcycles.

“In the next five or 10 years the technology is going to get so much better,” said Rymer.

“They’re going to get lighter; they’re going to charge quick quicker; they’re going to last longer.

That’s what they’re doing in

the Silicon Valley right now is designing a better mousetrap for E-Vehicles, and when more minds go after it and think of better, more efficient ways for battery technology, you know the product is going to improve year after year.”

Those interested in LiveWire may have the chance to view the motorcycle at this year’s Sturgis Rally. There has been rumors that Harley-Davidson corporate could be displaying LiveWire at the Rally, but nothing definitive has been confirmed yet.

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Students join industry icons in bike build

Student C.J. Murray, left, works to fit a metal cover for the battery box on the late-model bike while Keith Terry, center, and fellow student Dylan Janke look on. Black Hills Iron photo by Deb Holland

High school students get hands-on experience of tearing bikes apart and building them from the ground up

By Deb Holland Black Hills Iron

Dylan Janke drills a hole in a bracket for the late-model bike at the Competition Distributing garage in Sturgis.

STURGIS — Eight high school students have spent a portion of their summer vacation building motorcycles from the ground up.

As part of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame Youth Build Program the students work with seasoned professionals once a week building late-model and old-school bikes which will then be put on the auction block.

The co-ed youth build program is open to ninth- to 12th-grade high school students from the Northern Black Hills. Interestingly, this year’s class of eight students all come from Sturgis Brown High School.

They include: Cody Nelson, Dean Relf, Mason Nash, Dylan Janke, C.J. Murray, Jace Sims, Race Garvin and Jadon Kaiser.

The 2019 build is a “new vs. old” competition with a group of students building a late-model motorcycle and the other group tackling a 1920s Harley-Davidson. Mentors are Jason Sims and Keith Terry.

Sims, director of operations/promoter of the Motorcycle Cannonball, is leading the team building the 1920s Harley-Davidson.

He said he is participating in the build in hopes of bringing a resurgence of youth in the motorcycling world.

“It’s really been a dying thing. Hopefully this will get kids interested in motorcycles again,” he said.

Terry, of Terry Components of Spearfish,

which is considered one of the nation’s more successful custom motorcycle parts manufacturing companies, is leading the students building the late model motorcycle. He’s getting lots of help from Randy Cramer of Dakota V Twin, also located in Spearfish.

“I couldn’t do it without him,” Terry said.

“The bike is my concept, then I go out in the industry to make that concept real. I hand that over to Randy and he puts the parts on the bike. That teamwork works for us. I’m there watching, but I don’t have to worry about the fit.”

The Terry team had completed the fabrication on the bike and were ready to start the finishing work by the end of June.

Terry said the students have been excellent workers.

“We have students who are maybe seeing all of this stuff for the first time. They can’t get enough of it. They would stay around all night if that is what we decided to do,” Terry said.

And the students understand how fortunate they are to be taught by icons of the motorcycle-building industry who have connections to help them get the very latest parts available.

“Even some in the industry haven’t seen these parts because we are getting the first ones,” Terry said.

The grand reveal of the bikes is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 7 at the Sturgis

BIKE BUILD Pg 26

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Inyan Kara Enduro enters its 24th year

BY CODY ERTMAN Black Hills Iron

Black Hills race named top enduro 10 times

UPTON, Wyo. — Every year, the quiet town of Upton, Wyo., comes alive with the roar of motorcycles participating in the Inyan Kara Enduro.

Around 300 riders every year take part, riding all types of dirt bikes and trail bikes through 100 miles of terrain surrounding Upton and Inyan Kara mountain.

Twenty four years ago, the local motorcycle group, Inyan Kara Riders, started the enduro after riding in the Rocky Mountain Enduro Circuit (RMEC). The group enjoyed their local riding area so much that they invited the RMEC to host an enduro in Upton. Paul and Debbie Douglas originally organized the event and continued to do so for 21 years. Three years ago, they handed the baton off to Scott, Steven, and Chelsea Gerber, who

ENDURO Pg 6

Each September, several hundred riders roll into Upton, Wyo., to race in the Inyan Kara Enduro. The off-road race has been named enduro of the year 10 times and has been home to five national events. Courtesy photos

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from Pg 5

ENDURO have continued to hold and improve the enduro year after year.

Enduros are essentially long-distance time trials on off-road terrain. Riders participate in 10 sections throughout the Inyan Kara Enduro that are timed. Between these sections are travel points that are not timed as well as places where riders can fuel up.

The terrain of the Inyan Kara Enduro is what keeps riders coming back year after year. There are sections of the enduro that travel over prairie, single track through tight trees, and an exciting canyon section that is challenging to navigate to say the least. The trail is also changing each year. Volunteers go out every year and change the trail as well as add new and challenging obstacles to keep the enduro fresh and exciting.

Not only is the enduro a pleasure for the riders to partake in, but the people of Upton welcome the riders with open arms and have fun with the enduro. Each year, Upton school opens its doors and parking lot to racers needing a place to hang their hats. Kids and local organizations provide food, showers, and other services. The starting line is within the town of Upton, and the starting events always draw a large crowd of local onlookers. The whole town gets behind the event, and every year they have more than enough volunteers to help with the enduro.

Since its humble beginnings, the Inyan Kara Enduro has blossomed more each year, winning RMEC enduro of the year 10 times, and the enduro has even been host to five national events.

These national events have brought in riders from all over the world as well as pro riders racing on the national circuit. The turnout for these national events has been huge, with large equipment manufacturers, like KTM, displaying products and offering test rides, and national motorcycle media personnel attending as well.

The future of the Inyan Kara Enduro is looking bright. The support from the community, the local landowners, and the forest service have made the event into what it is today and will ensure the Inyan Kara Enduro will thrive in the years to come.

The 2019 RMEC Inyan Kara Enduro is scheduled for Sept. 29.

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Dee Snider to captain Buffalo Chip Legends Ride STURGIS — The Buffalo Chip’s signature Legends Ride charity event taking place on Monday, Aug. 5 has long been the place to see and meet the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally’s top celebrities. This year, consummate heavy metal front man Dee Snider of Twisted Sister will act as ride captain and lead the parade of celebrities, industry leaders and riders supporting local charities on the ride through the beautiful Black Hills. Additional celebrities joining the Legends Ride include Academy Award-nominated actor Tom Berenger, star of History’s “Counting Cars,” “Horny” Mike, and other Hollywood and moto-industry superstars.

The kickoff gathering on Deadwood’s Main Street attracts hundreds of Rally goers for camaraderie and a charity auction. Several items of special interest including fine artwork, signed guitars and a custom motorcycle will be auctioned before the ride departs. Those who register for the ride are invited to line up their bikes, on a first-come, first-served basis on Deadwood’s Main Street beginning at 11 a.m. One hundred percent of rider fees from the event benefit the South Dakota Special Olympics Rapid City Flame’s Buffalo Chip Gym and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.

Since its inception the Sturgis Buffalo Chip has donated more than $750,000 to charitable organizations in the Black Hills.

“The Legends Ride is one of the most momentous events of the Sturgis

and fighting veteran suicide. Those who purchase passes to the Legends Lunch receive premium motorcycle parking beginning at 10:30 a.m. Reservations are very limited and must be made in advance. Call (605) 347-9000 to reserve your seat and premium bike parking.

Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider will lead this year’s Legends Ride.

Courtesy photo

2019 Legends Ride schedule

Motorcycle Rally and we are honored that our friend and rock superstar, Dee Snider has agreed to lead the way,” said Rod Woodruff, Sturgis Buffalo Chip president. “Dee is joining a host of celebrities and industry superstars who will once again gather to support vital local charities.

And on Tuesday night everyone who has had a chance to meet Dee at the Legends Ride can come out to the Chip and watch him rock the main stage as he opens for Disturbed.”

Those interested may find more information and make reservations at LegendsRide.com.

Legends Lunch Executive Celebrity Charity Event

People may also join Snider for some one-on-one time and a gourmet lunch in one of Deadwood’s finest restaurants before attending Legends Ride events.

The Legends Restaurant will prepare a meal accompanied by wine or cocktails.

The cost to attend the lunch is $300 per person. All proceeds benefit the Naja Shriners Patient Transportation Fund and the Sgt. Colton Levi Derr Foundation, a local organization assisting veterans

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Monday, Aug. 5, Main Street Deadwood 10:30 a.m. – VIP bike parking for Legends Lunch attendees only 11 a.m. – Bike parking begins for Legends Ride participants 11 a.m. – Legends Lunch begins at the Historic Franklin Hotel’s Legends Restaurant (ticketed separately $300 per person) 1 p.m. – Lunch concludes 2 p.m. – Legends Ride auction on Deadwood’s Main Street (open to the public) 3 p.m. – Legends Ride departs for those who have purchased a Ride pass 5 p.m. – Ride arrives at the Buffalo Chip for a catered reception 7:15 p.m. – Concerts begin in the Buffalo Chip amphitheater featuring Collective Soul and headliner Styx (concert included for first 200 Legends Ride reservations) Reservations for the Legends Ride and Legends Lunch are sold separately and may be made at LegendsRide.com or by calling (605) 347-9000.

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BHSU Jacket Ride set for Tuesday of Rally Week SPEARFISH — Black Hills State University invites motorcyclists and supporters to join the seventh annual BHSU Dennis Kirk Yellow Jacket Ride for Veterans scholarships during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

The 2019 Jacket Ride will be held Tuesday, Aug. 6 with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the Joy Center on the BHSU Campus. Participants will enjoy a lunch followed by kickstands up at 10 a.m. before departing on premier route in the Black Hills.

“It is a really great way to give back to our student veterans,” said Kanda Guthmiller, scholarship coordinator at BHSU. “We are a very military friendly school … and this is one of many ways we support our veterans here on campus.”

During the ride, bikers will drive through Spearfish Canyon to Lead, and Nemo before heading down Vanocker Canyon before ending at Scott Peterson Motors in Sturgis.

Lunch will be served at the dealership.

Jacket Ride registration is $50 for a single rider and $75 for a rider and passenger.

Registration includes lunch, a t-shirt, and door prize entry.

All proceeds support scholarships for veteran students at

BHSU. Lunch will be catered by Rent-a-Chef catering.

Guthmiller said thanks to sponsors Dennis Kirk, Scott Peterson Motors, and the Black Hills Pioneer, the cost of the ride, meal, and shirts are fully funded meaning that all funds from the rider entries go to fund veterans’ scholarships.

“It’s so much fun,” Guthmiller said. “Group rides are so much fun. You’re with your friends, the camaraderie.

We get lots of repeat riders.

In 2018, three scholarships were awarded to BHSU student

veterans thanks to the support of the Jacket Ride participants.

Amanda English, a elementary education major from Piedmont; Barndi Ferguson, a masters degree candidate in sustainability from Rapid City; and Sterling Holmes, a elementary education major from

Box Elder all received scholarships.

“Seven years ago we created this great event for Veteran’s at BHSU. We have had many scholarship students that have benefitted from this and are so grateful for the support of our

sponsors and participants.”

Steve Meeker, vice president of University Advancement.

For more info on the Jacket Ride or to register, visit www.

BHSU.edu/JacketRide or contact Guthmiller at (605) 642-6335 or Kanda.Guthmiller@BHSU.edu.

The 2018 Black Hills State University Jacket Ride is Tuesday, Aug. 6 with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. The seventh annual event is held during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and proceeds from the ride go toward scholarships for student veterans. Black Hills Iron file photo

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Jason Sims D-Day tribute and European adventure

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BY ALEX PORTAL Black Hills Iron

NORMANDY FRANCE — After storming the beaches of Normandy as part of the 75th Anniversary of D-Day, Jason Sims, owner and operator of the Glencoe Campground in Sturgis, as well as owner and promoter of the Motorcycle Cannonball, along with four biker buddies spent the month of June tooling around Europe on their vintage 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA motorcycles.

“It was very surreal, and very humbling,” Sims said in an email with Black Hills Iron. “We stayed only like 20 meters from the official Utah beach.

We stayed in a campground along with many other people that were there for the celebration that were fully dressed in for World War II attire. On the morning of June 6 we got up before sunrise and rode our motorcycles onto the beach at almost the time that the troops would be coming in, and sat on our motorcycles as a sunrise came up along with lots of other people in military vehicles and there was a few celebrations on the beach in the morning and was

D-DAY Pg 10

Jason Sims, above, and a group of vintage motorcycle enthusiasts, bottom right, stormed the beaches of Normandy France in remembrance of the 75th anniversary of D-Day. The motor-minded madmen then continued on a two-wheeled tour of Western Europe. Courtesy photos

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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 Paul Baker, 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. © 2019 BLACK HILLS IRON, all rights reserved.

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Tributes and reenactments littered the beaches of Normandy France on June 6 in solemn remembrance of the 75th anniversary of Operation Overlord.

Courtesy photo. from Pg 9

D-DAY incredible.”

Sims said the crew rode on Omaha, Sword, and Juno beaches.

“There is only really less than a handful left of true D-Day veterans,” he said. “But they were treated like A-list celebrities wherever they went in the Normandy region. The locals would cry and cheer for the veterans, they are true heroes!”

According to the Department of Veteran Affairs, in 2018 496,777 of the 16 million Americans who served in WWII were still alive.

Sims said that the Europeans were very welcoming to him and his group.

“Everywhere that we went in Europe we were treated like rock stars,” he said. “People would see us and follow us, invite us to their house, feed us, house us, etc. When we would stop in a city or a gas station we would have a huge spectacle of people wanting to take pictures and know more

information.”

The vintage motorcycles themselves held up well to the extensive European tour, Sims said.

“For the most part they ran great and had very little issues,” he said. “The only (issues) we had, we could fix on the side of the road, we would spend an hour a night doing maintenance on the machines to prepare for the next day.”

All in all, Sims said he was very moved by the reception and reaction the group got all across the continent as they made their way from France to Poland.

“There were many people from Europe that are more proud of America and what we have done than what Americans are,” he said. “It was so crazy to see so many Europeans dressed up in full American clothes and have American vehicles, they all wish they could be part of the history.”

Sims and two of his compatriots returned to the states on June 28, while two others continued on to Bulgaria.

For more information about Sims’ European tour look for 75th D Day Harley WLA Tour 2019 on Facebook.

From a historic B-25 Bomber!

Experience History with a flight in the historic B-25 “Miss Mitchell” August 2-8, 2019 at Black Hills Airport Book a flight in advance at www.cafmn.org or come tour the aircraft from 10 am to 6 pm.

For a $10 donation, you can also have a photo taken with Miss Mitchell and your bike!

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Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame

STURGIS — The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame will induct nine new members in the Hall of Fame during this year’s Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

The induction ceremony will be Wednesday, Aug. 7, at The Lodge in Deadwood. Those to be honored include: Frank Fritz, Jill Parham, Danny Fitzmaurice, Ron Finch, Ron Paugh, Terry Rymer, Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient, Gloria Struck;

Danny Fitzmaurice

As an 11-year-old in 1970, Danny Fitzmaurice’s neighbor Ron Helms opened a new HarleyDavidson dealership. The business was small with many challenges, and it did not take this kid long to figure out Danny an opporFitzmaurice tunity to volunteer was possible. From this point on, most of Fitzmaurice’s life going forward revolved around motorcycles. He wanted to know how to develop and make more power from all the great people he would encounter.

Fitzmaurice worked day jobs and repaired engines at night, all to help fund more racing. As his skills developed, the dream of getting a pro license in 1981 was quickly realized. After the spring Florida racing series, these dreams went up in smoke when Fitzmaurice and racing/ business partner, Dave Zehner, realized their expanding engine business was growing fast. This step led to the official formation of Zipper’s in May 1981 with Dave Zehner.

They were blessed with plenty

Freedom Fighter, Vince Consiglio; and Pappy Hoel Award - in memory of Lonnie Isam Jr. Inductees to the Hall of Fame are selected for significant contributions to the sport and lifestyle of motorcycling.

Members of the Hall of Fame are honored on a perpetual basis at the museum.

“We honor our Hall of Fame members by telling the stories that showcase their contributions and accomplishments. In

doing this, we hope to inspire our visitors and the riding community,” said Museum Executive Director Emma Garvin.

Currently, you can find the Hall of Fame display in the lower level of the museum. The exhibit includes various items, videos and vehicles that spark conversations about these great people, Garvin said.

Pioneers, innovators and living legends inducted into 2019 Hall of Fame of customers building and tuning street and track engines, many for dirt and asphalt drag racing. As the U.S. economy was improving, business was growing and fans wanted to attend and ride to racetracks to see the action. Because of the continued growth of Zipper’s, and commitment to customers and staff, by 1995 Danny Fitzmaurice and Dave Zehner started to scale back racing, selectively attending events to compete in. They were lucky to race during a time of great competition and the ability to compete against and learn from some of the best in the industry.

At the time, they set many records and pursued championships, racing in six different sanctions. Today, these records are long gone with progress of new machines and innovation as they should. Fitzmaurice remains grateful for the impact that so many people made on his experiences of racing.

Frank Fritz

As a youngster, Frank Fritz wasn’t interested in extracurricular activities. He was interested in motor bikes and collecting beer cans, stamps, and all the “staples.” As Frank got older, his step-father told him that if he wanted something, he had to work for it. Frank attended summer school every year and worked in the afternoons. By Fritz’s sophomore year in high school, he was making $7 an

hour and he was finally able to buy a 1959 HarleyDavidson Sportster.

After all, according to Fritz’s father Frank “you can Fritz get killed on a 350 Honda or a Harley.” Fritz could be seen and heard riding his Sportster to school while other kids were getting dropped off by their parents. Fritz still has his 1959 Sportster today.

Fritz said he appreciates the freedom he feels owning, working on and riding motorcycles.

For many years, Fritz would ride his 1959 Sportster to the south side grounds in Sturgis for the Rally. At the farthest, he would go to Deadwood. Fritz recalls making laps up and down Main Street from sun-up to sundown. Now people are amazed that Fritz still rides to Sturgis and camps in the same spot.

Fritz doesn’t roll up in a motor home or fly in to stay in a hotel, he does what he has done for the last 30 years.

Fritz says his greatest achievement as a person was always working hard, seeing what he wanted and working for it, and hanging onto life-long friends, who he sees regularly.

As a motorcyclist, Fritz consid-

ers one of his greatest achievements keeping his first bike and still riding today. Many friends got Harley-Davidson tattoos and had bikes here and there but motorcycling has never left Fritz’s blood.

“To be inducted into the Hall of Fame, is the biggest praise that I have ever received,’’ said Fritz. “It means everything to me. It is a dream come true. I have been long-time friends with several inductees and it is truly an honor to be included alongside them.”

Gloria Struck

While Gloria Tramontin Struck came from a motorcycling family, she didn’t originally have any burning desire to ride.

Struck was born in 1925 behind her family’s business, Lexington Cycle Shop, in Gloria Clifton, Struck New Jersey.

The business had been selling bicycles and ExcelsiorHenderson motorcycles since 1915.

In 1946, at age 21, Struck joined the Motor Maids that had been established in 1941. Struck

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is the longest standing member still riding.

Struck has logged more than 500 thousand miles, riding all 48 continental states many times over. Struck ‘s family shares her love of riding. Her daughter, Lori, also is a Motor Maid and can always be seen riding with her mother.

Jill Parham

It is rare that a husband and wife can work closely side by side in the same business. In 1979, Jill Parham helped expand company focus from swap meets to mail-order parts sales.

After working two jobs Jill for more Parham than 10 years, and now seeing some family income from J&P Cycles, Parham quit her job in 1991 and moved to J&P Cycles full time.

Eventually, J&P Cycles became the world’s largest retailer of after-market motorcycle parts and accessories. In the period of the industry’s greatest growth, Parham became a pioneer in the motorcycle industry, one of the early women leaders in a historically male-centric industry.

HALL OF FAME Pg 26

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Choosing the Right Harley

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Which rider are you?

If you are planning to purchase your first Harley-Davidson, it’s easy to be overwhelmed when you walk in a showroom door. Sure, the salesman will be helpful in determining which bike is right for your needs, but going in prepared helps you set a price point that makes sense to your budget.

Here is a look at a two of the most common types of Harley-Davidson bikes and which riders they are built for.

Softail

These specialized bikes are ideal for a general rider. The family gets its name due to the hidden rear-sus rear-suspension system built with springs or absorbers to make riding more comfortable. Harley-Davidson has a great lineup in the Softail family, making it easy to find the style you like and the handling you need.

Each bike in this group is paired with the powerful Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin engine. Newer models also include a reinvented frame which makes the machines lighter and stiffer than previous options.

For the first-time motorcycle owner, a Softail provides performance, easy operation and superior comfort. It’s a great option as a daily driver and allows new riders to become accustomed to the Harley-Davidson lifestyle.

Touring

The Touring family is for anyone who wants to travel the country on two wheels. These machines are built for travel, which means unprecedented comfort, air deflectors and high windshields and intricate details in the body and suspension to create an enjoyable ride.

Another perk to these bikes is their storage ability. HarleyDavidson realizes long trips require more stuff and most come equipped with under-seat space, saddlebags and even room for a passenger. Accessories like luggage racks can be easily added to most models.

The manufacturer doesn’t skimp on power just because these bikes are larger. You’ll have no trouble navigating through rough terrains, climbing mountains or even joyriding down the highway.

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The Humble Beginnings

The Humble Beginnings

Much like other iconic American companies, HarleyDavidson launched its journey from humble beginnings.

The team’s incredible work ethic and passion to produce quality machines turned them into much more than a motorcycle manufacturer. HarleyDavidson is a lifestyle.

Entering the Market

It can be hard to imagine that the giant corporation started its venture in a 10-by-15-foot wooden shed in Milwaukee. The highly recognizable bar and shield that Harley is known for was also lacking as “Harley-Davidson Motor Co.” was scribbled on the main door by co-founders William Harley and Arthur Davidson.

The duo began working in the shed in 1901 with the

blueprint of an engine designed to fit on a bicycle drawn by Harley. It was 1903 when the co-founders introduced their first product to the public, featuring, according to the manufacturer, a 3-and-a-half-inch stroke. While much tamer than today’s motorcycles, at the time it was an impressive machine.

In 1904, the first HarleyDavidson Dealership was opened by C.H. Lang of Chicago.

Moving On Up

After much applause from the American public, the group determined the shed could no longer support its production efforts. In 1906, a new factory was constructed on what is today Juneau Avenue. In comparison to their last building, the new addition was a huge upgrade, it

measured 28-by-80-foot and employed six people full time.

In 1907, the Harley-Davidson Motor Co. incorporated. By this time, Arthur Davidson’s two brothers joined the crew and stocks were split among the four co-founders. By 1910, the Bar & Shield logo was trademarked at the United States Patent Office. It has remained essentially unchanged since its initial inception.

Harley would flourish. In 1917 when it dedicated about one third of production to

the United States military.

After wartime, it held a significant part in American history that continues today.

The Motorcycle’s Wartime Role The motorcycle was an incredibly flexible and important machine during wartime. Its small stature made it the perfect vehicle to navigate difficult terrains much quicker than on horseback. One important role it had was to transport couriers with important information between units without compromising electronic communications, which were commonly breached by enemy forces.

Another

Courtesy photos

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way soldiers took advantage of these speedy bikes was to deliver ammunition and even transport injured soldiers out of harm’s way. Some machines were even mounted with weapons to be used in battle efforts.

HarleyDavidson’s Contributions

With the popularity of the motorcycle in foreign militaries, it didn’t take long for America to take notice and enlist the help of Harley-Davidson to build specially designed bikes.

According to the Corporate history of Harley-Davidson, Gen. John Pershing was tasked with pursuing Mexican Gen. Pancho Villa. Pershing understood he would be traveling difficult terrains and knew a motorcycle would be his best mode of transportation.

It just so happened that he was a fan of the HarleyDavidson motorbikes; he placed an order of 12 machines while HD was still generally unknown as a manufacturer. This motion threw them into the spotlight and led to advertising their motorcycles as “Uncle Sam’s Choice.”

The team would ultimately deliver approximately 15,000 machines toward the American war efforts. During World War I, Harley-Davidson worked tirelessly to build higher-horsepower engines and specially designed fenders to make navigating through mud an easier task.

In World War II, HD was the prime supplier when the United States military ordered the largest deployment of motorcycles in our history.

The manufacturers received a prestigious Army/Navy ‘E’ Award for Excellence in Wartime Production.

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James Rispoli to race the Black Hills Harley-Davidson XG750R

BY CODY ERTMAN Black Hills Iron

RAPID CITY — James ‘The Rocket’ Rispoli, a renowned motorcycle racer, has signed on with Terry Rymer and Black Hills Harley-Davidson to ride the Harley-Davidson/Vance & Hines XG750R in the American Flat Track Production Twins Class for the rest of the 2019 season.

At the age of 27, Rispoli has been racing motorcycles for 22 years. He has won two AMA Super Sport Championships, a multitude of amateur national titles in dirt track, holds a land speed record, and has won many other titles along the way. Rispoli has spent the last five years racing Super Sport in the U.K. but recently returned to the states to race flat track again.

Rispoli and Rymer met at Daytona this year following a race, then a few weeks later, Rispoli received a phone call from Rymer the day after a race in Texas, where Rispoli finished in seventh-place. Rymer asked if

he would be interested in riding the Black Hills Harley-Davidson sponsored XG750R for the rest of the season. Rispoli accepted and a deal was struck between the two.

“It’s kind of cool because we were looking for the opportunity,” said Rispoli. “And with Black Hills being part of the first Harley-Davidson dealerships to come back into the sport after the absence of the XR is incredible and you know, myself to try to be a part of Black Hills HarleyDavidson is one of the most prestigious dealerships, especially in the Midwest, so I’m very excited.”

Rispoli first got on the Black Hills Harley-Davidson sponsored XG750R at the So-Cal Half-Mile at Perris, Calif., and was impressed by how well it rides.

“I think it’s a very, very good machine,” said Rispoli. “Vance & Hines and Harley have done a ton of development on it, and I think I jumped on it at the right time, when they’re just on the upward swing…I think it’s going to be really competitive package for

the rest of the year.”

This will be Rispoli’s first year racing an entire flat track season in about 10 years, so his goals for this year are to rebuild and solidify his place as a flat track racer.

Despite this being a rebuild year for him, Rispoli still has high hopes for the long flat track season ahead.

“For us, if we can get some wins and podiums, I mean, it would be huge, it would be astonishing,” said Rispoli. “So for us this is kind of a rebuild year.

I haven’t raced dirt track professionally in probably 10 years.

I’ve done a couple wild cards, like Daytona and stuff like that, but for me it’s just literally about getting this back together, get back on the podium, show them what we can do, you know, especially on the twin because that is where the future is still, and I really believe I can be a top twins rider.”

Racing fans will be able to see Rispoli and the Black Hills James ‘The Rocket’ Rispoli will ride this year for Black Hills Harley-Davidson XG750R at the Harley-Davidson. He will compete at the Black Hills Half-Mile Black Hills Half-Mile Aug. 6 at Aug. 6 at Black Hills Speedway. Courtesy photo Black Hills Speedway.

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What’s new for Harley in 2019 Each year, fans of Harley-Davidson motorcycles eagerly await the release of a new lineup. Next year’s model promises to be no disappointment. In addition to a brand-new model in the Softail family, there are also exciting upgrades in the CVO group. Here’s what you can expect.

FXDR 114

The Softail family is welcoming the new FXDR 114 bike. Its sleek appearance

takes cues from a drag-racing bike while offering premium suspension and the popular Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin engine. It’s built with performance, agility and comfort in mind.

One feature that has everyone talking about this Softail is its epic-lean angle.

Thanks to the large wheels being finetuned to the bike’s chassis, its handling is incredible. Harley-Davidson paired the engine with an exhaust system unlike anything it’s done before.

Its unique appearance stands out as a visual treat while performing flawlessly.

New CVO Features

Another popular group of HD motorcycle is their Custom Vehicle Operations family. Under this faction Harley creates limited-production bikes to appeal to the most die-hard fanatics of their machines. In 2019, the manufacturer is including some incredible technology to all their CVO options.

Being included as standard in all new models is the new Boom! Box GTS system which uses Bluetooth to wirelessly connect up to eight headsets with exceptional sound. Communicating with passengers or fellow riders has never been easier.

On board tire-pressure monitoring sensors will

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reveal the psi in both tires and displays alerts when pressure is low and can warn of a puncture if it is losing air.

The incredible Milwaukee-Eight 117 is exclusive to CVO models and will be receiving its own recognition on 2019 models.

The rocker boxes are embossed with a bright Blaze Red band to identify the popular motor.

Courtesy photos

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2019

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 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.

Spearfish Canyon on Two Wheels

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

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

look at one 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

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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 HarleyDavidson 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 Highway 24, you’ll turn 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 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

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

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

Top Rides Pg 21

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www.bhpioneer.com 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 LeadDeadwood 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

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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, bison, 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.

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

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

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

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

Top Rides Pg 23

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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

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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 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

Top Rides from Pg 21 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 monument’s surface trails and facilities are open free of charge. A fee is required for

vehicle. The rolling hills and 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, 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

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

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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 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.

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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.

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

s file photo

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Sturgis Motorcycle Rally headquarters

Schedule of Events – 2019

Open Aug. 1-10, 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

Black Hills Harley Davidson Events: www.bhhd.com

July 27-28 — Pre-Rally Roll-out July 27 — Boots & Bikes for Heroes Poker Run July 31 — All Vendors Open Aug 24 — The Original Black Hills 21 Run 2019

RIDES Sturgis Events: www.sturgissuperstore.com

July 31 — Prairie to the Hills Director’s Ride Aug. 2, 6, & 9 — Ride with a local Aug. 4 — Legendary Sturgis 5k Aug. 5 — 17th Annual Sturgis Mayor’s Ride Aug. 6 — Tattoo Tuesday Aug. 7 — Fast Ride Aug. 8 — Angels Ride Aug. 10 — The Legendary Sturgis Adventure Ride

Deadwood Custom Cycles Events www.deadwoodcustomcycles.com

Bike Night — Every Wednesday from till Sept. 25 (except for July 31 & Aug 7) Kickstands up at 6:30.

July 10 — Mustang Sallys July 17 — Bodega July 24 — Madam Peacocks Aug. 14 — Jacobs Art Gallery Aug. 21 — Deadwood Mountain Grand Aug. 28 — Sick Boy Cycles Sept. 4 — Gem Sept. 11 — Deadwood Tobacco Sept. 18 — His and Hers Ale House Sept. 25 — Silverado / Franklin

Rushmore ABATE Events: www.rushmoreabate.com

RACES AND CLIMBS JACKPINE Gypsies Events: www.jackpinegypsies.com

Short Track Races (mini — sprints, go — carts, and flat track races) July 13 July 20 Sept. 13-14

American Flat Track Races Aug 6 — Black Hills Half Mile www.americanflattrack.com

Sturgis Dragway Events www.sturgisdrags.com

July 6-7 — Bracket Racing — NHRA King of the Track & Junior Dragster Challenge July 19 — Street Legals/ Small Tire/Big Tire shootout July 20 — Corvette Rally July 21 — Bracket Racing Aug. 2 — Street Legals Aug. 3 — Small/Big Tire shootout/ Grudge Racing Aug. 4 — MC Rally – Move in / Test & Tune/ “Run What ya brung” Aug. 5 — MC Rally — Nitro Drag Qualifying Aug. 6 — MC Rally — Nitro Drag Finals Aug. 7 — MC Rally- Rain make up day/ Baker “All in to go all out” Aug. 8 — Street Legals / Diesel Drags Aug. 9 — Diesel Show and Shine/ Diesel Shootout Aug. 23 — Kool Deadwood Nights Cruiser Drags/ Street Legals/ Small Tire / big Tire Shootout Aug. 24-25 — Bracket Racing Aug. 30-31 — Mustang Rally

July 20 — Honda Riders Moonlight Madness Run Aug. 3 — Honda Riders Iron Mountain Poker Run Aug. 8 — Whitewood social Aug. 18 — Lost Members Ride

Black Hills Sling Shot Group Events:

(all events leave from Rice Honda @ 6pm in Rapid City unless otherwise noted) July 18 — Center of the Nation July 20 — Badlands Midnight Madness. Leave at noon July 23 — HRCA Sugar Shack ride Aug. 3 — HRCA Poker Run @ 1PM Aug. 15 — Canyon Run Sept. 4 — Highway 40 ride Sept. 17 — HRCA Mystery Ride Sept. 29 — HRCA Color ride. Leave at 1 p.m.

AFMC (Armed Forces Motorcycle Club)

Contact John Arthur “Sarge” at (910) 934-0690 for more info Aug. 10 — Save the Vets Run, Belle Fourche

BUILDERS AND EXHIBITS Buffalo Chip School’s Out Chopper Aug. 3 Registration — Noon to 2 p.m.

Buffalo Chip CrossRoads www.buffalochip.com

FXR Show & Dyna Mixer Aug. 4 www.buffalochip.com

Buffalo Chip V-Twin Visionary Bike Show Aug. 5 Registration — 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Buffalo Chip CrossRoads www.buffalochip.com

Three-Dom Trike Show Aug. 5 Registration — 1-3 p.m Buffalo Chip CrossRoads www.buffalochip.com

Women & Wheels Bike Show Aug. 6 10:30 a.m.

Buffalo Chip CrossRoads www.buffalochip.com

Sportster Showdown Aug. 6 Registration: 1-2 p.m Camp ZERO www.buffalochip.com

2019 Motorcycles As Art Aug 3-9, 2-10 p.m.

Buffalo Chip Event Center

CONCERTS Full Throttle Saloon Events: www.fullthrottlesaloon.com

July 24-28 — Off Road Rally July 27 — The LACS in concert Aug. 4 — Colt Ford & The LACS Aug 5 — Full Throttle Old School Chopper Show Aug 6 — Paul Yaffe’s Baddest Bike Show Aug. 6 — Cheap Trick, Foghat & Puddle of Mudd Aug. 6 — Sons of Speed Vintage Motorcycle Races Aug. 7 — Saliva Aug. 7 — The Pappy Hoel Memorial Ride Aug. 8 — Jackyl Aug. 8 — Full Throttle Saloon Bike Show

Northern Hills Militiamen VMC Buffalo Chip Events: Call Chad Hartley at (605) 690—3277 for more info www.buffalochip.com

Aug. 3 — 8 Annual Northern Hills MVMC Poker Run, Spearfish Oct. 12 — Freeze your Nutz Off Poker Run, Spearfish th

5TH Annual Deadwood 3 Wheeler Rally www.d3wr.com July 9-14

Aug. 2 — Skid Row Aug. 3 — Keith Urban, George Thorogood and The Destroyers Aug. 3 — Endurocross Main Races Aug. 4 — Godsmack, American Flat Track Grand National Championship Races Aug. 5 — Styx, Collective Soul Aug. 5 — Legends Ride Kickoff Aug. 5 — Three — Dom Trike Show

rally edition

www.bhpioneer.com Aug. 6 — Women & Wheels Bike Show Aug. 6 — Biker Belles Morning Ride Aug. 6 — Disturbed, Dee Snider Aug. 7 — The Rusty Wallace Charity Ride Aug. 7 — Snoop Dogg Aug. 7 — Theory of a Deadman Aug. 8 — Toby Keith Aug. 8 — Pop Evil Aug. 8 — Freedom Celebration Veterans Charity Auction Aug. 9 — Volbeat Aug. 9 — Red Fang Aug. 10 — Zakk Sabbath, Reverend Horton Heat

Iron Horse Saloon www.Ihsturgis.com

July 17 — Colter Wall July 26 — Shooter Jennings Aug. 2 — Palisades /From Ashes to New / Hinder Aug. 3 — Naughty By Nature/ Everlast Aug 3 — 2nd Annual Garage Build Motorcycle show Aug. 4 — Red Sun Rising / Hell Yeah Aug. 5 — The Sisterhood Band/ Jamey Johnson Aug. 6 — Andrew WK / Hairball Aug. 7 — Sevendust / Hairball Aug. 8 — Adelitas Way / Hairball Aug. 9 — DED/ Corrosion of Conformity/ In this Moment Sept. 10 — Cadillac 3

Glencoe Campground www.glencoecamp.com

Aug. 4 — Revenge of the 80’s Aug. 3, 5, 7 — Big Top Radio Aug. 6-7 — Moonshine Bandits

2019

Kickstands Campground www.Kickstandsllc.com

July 29 — The Shotgun Billy’s Pre-Rally Party Aug. 1 — Saving Abel Aug 2-3 — Ryan Chrys / The Roughcuts Aug 3 — Small Town Titans Aug 4 — Jacob Bryant Aug 5 — Creed Fisher Aug 6 — Whey Jennings / Jasmine Cain Aug. 7 — Creed Fisher

Shade Valley Campgrounds

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5K Run: 8 a.m.

Fort Meade Softball Fields Hwy 34, Sturgis, SD Registration $40 starting Join us for a fun race as we run on a flat, scenic course from Fort Meade to the City Park. Proceeds will go a local charity yet to be announced.

5th annual Big Kenny’s Pool Party

Aug. 6 — 3 p.m., Deadwood Mountain Grand www.deadwoodmountaingrand.com

www.shadevalley.com

Aug 5-6 — Jagertown Aug 6-7 — Snake Oil Aug 7 — Jasmine Cain Aug 3-5 — Loaded Dice

Sturgis Vets Club www.sturgisvetsclub.com Aug. 7 — Bag Lady Sue

Dime HorseShoe Bar Sundance WY Aug. 7 — Burnout Wednesday

OTHER COOL STUFF! Legendary Sturgis 5K Aug 4 Check In/Registration: 7–7:50 a.m.

Military Appreciation Day

Aug. 6 — 3 p.m. B-1 flyover Main Street Sturgis

Tattoo Tuesday

Aug. 6 — 5 p.m., Main St. and Harley Davidson Way. Registration $10.

Anyone with a tattoo can enter.

Beard & Mustache Contest

Aug. 7 — 5 p.m., Harley-Davidson Rally Point Registration $10.

We all know that the motorcycle culture brings out the guys with the beards and mustaches. See how your beard compares to your buddies!

Sturgis Motorcycle Museum www.sturgismuseum.com

Aug. 7 — 2019 Sturgis Motorcycle Musuem Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

Courtesy photo

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2019

from Pg 4

BIKE BUILD Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame Induction breakfast at The Lodge in Deadwood.

“It will be finished. We’re moving right along,” Terry said.

But the same can’t be said for the oldstyle team led by Sims and Lonnie Isam Sr. Isam said it has been difficult finding parts to build a 1919 vintage bike from the ground up. He said they are still missing about five major parts.

“We couldn’t find them. The stuff is so rare,” he said.

Isam owns Competition Distributing in Sturgis. They have been manufacturing antique motorcycle products in the USA for more than 40 years.

from Pg 11

HALL OF FAME Parham continues to inspire women in the motorcycle industry and comments on her contributions to J&P Cycles, ”relationships were very important to John and me, and I did very well establishing some of those.” Parham says one of the events which really brought growth and expanded the J&P Cycles customer base was the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

It is fitting that Parham is honored in 2019 as it marks 40 years of her dedication to motorcycling and motorcycle riders as well as the 40th anniversary of the company she co-founded, J&P Cycles. This induction is on behalf of John and Jill Parham’s many great friends, the thousands of employee riders of J&P Cycles over the past 40 years, and its millions of customers.

Lonnie Isam Jr.

The mindset that old bikes should be entombed in shrines has shifted quite dramatically over the last decade, due in no small part to the efforts of one very quiet, unassuming antique enthusiast. Sturgis resident, Lonnie Isam Jr. sparked a worldwide age of enlightenment with his opinion that old motorcycles should be allowed to live out Lonnie their time here on Isam Jr. Earth as they were intended: in the wind. He set about sharing that view with riders around the world and now, every other year since 2010, antique motorcycle owners take their ancient machines out on America’s back roads to prove their mechanical marvel’s mettle and that of themselves, as well during the Motorcycle Cannonball.

For his efforts, Isam is being awarded the J.C. “Pappy” Hoel Award posthumously.

The award is reserved for individuals who have played a special role in the founding, maintaining and/or promoting the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

“We usually make a lot of our stuff. The kids solder and weld, but this bike will be more of an artist’s creation. I’ve done bikes period correct. It costs a lot more, and takes more time.”

Isam says to complete a historically accurate bike could take 300 to 400 hours.

“I think we jumped the schedule a little bit. It takes me almost a solid year,” he said.

At the start of the build Isam and Sims gathered enough parts to keep the students busy.

“They loved it, but we ran out of key parts. I’m in the circle. I know everybody, so we will eventually get the parts,” Isam said.

Once finished, both bikes will be sold

by Mecum Auctions in January. The money will be put back in the fund for future bike builds and student scholarships.

Ron Finch

The focus of Ron Finch has always been from the perspective of “Art of Motion.” His ability to fuse together mechanical design, brilliant paint, and functionally establishes him as one of the premiere builders of this era.

Labeled as “too extreme” by some, his work appropriately proclaims the freedom and individualism that is Ron so often associated Finch with the motorcycle lifestyle.

The artistry of Ron Finch is not limited to metal sculpture, it is also expressed in paint. In 2008, Finch was awarded the House of Kolor Prestigious Painter Award for his work on “Finicky,” which has a rainbow of colors on the right side, and a blend of red and orange candy on the left side. Named for its fins, Finicky is a 2006 Shovelhead that features extended fins on the heads, a finned four-gallon gas tank under the seat and Finch sculpture throughout.

Finch motorcycles have been featured in hundreds of magazines, museums, galleries, and shows in the United States, Germany, France, Sweden, and the Netherlands. One of his proudest moments was having the opportunity to display 12 custom motorcycles in the Milwaukee art museum during the 105th Harley-Davidson anniversary in August of 2008.

Finch celebrated his 80th birthday in march 2019 and continues to work from the studio painting and building custom motorcycles and art. Labeled as “too extreme” by some, the work of Ron Finch appropriately proclaims the freedom and individualism that is so often associated with the motorcycle lifestyle.

Ron Paugh

For the past 50 years, Paughco, Inc. has been providing the custom and restoration Harley-Davidson market with the most diverse, highest quality line of products available.

Paughco’s success is due in no small part to the fact that it is, and always has been, a true family business. Ron Paugh began riding dirt bikes in the San Fernando foothills as a 13-year-old like many did. When Paugh was a ju-

Jason Sims and Keith Terry work on the gas tank of the old-school bike. Pioneer photos by Deb Holland

nior in high school, he bought his first Knucklehead basket for $75. Paugh started hanging out at D&D Cycle.

Boyd Defrance was the owner of D&D Cycle and became a good friend of Paugh’s. DeFrance asked Paugh if his father’s tool and die company could reproduce the early Harley-Davidson inner primary cov- Ron ers. Paugh and his Paugh dad made 500 inner primaries and put 100 in the trunk of a 1969 Cadillac his dad leased. Paugh’s dad told his son, “we can’t go selling parts with an old pick-up truck.”

That was just the beginning. One part led to another and in 1969, Paughco, Inc. refocused with the sole purpose of producing the finest in custom and replacement parts and accessories. With the husband and wife team of Robert and Ruth Paugh at the helm, and Ron Paugh heading up the product design and development, Paughco was on the move. By the late 70’s, the company was manufacturing thousands of unique products, becoming the No. 1 choice of bike builders worldwide. After completion of Paughco’s new world headquarters, Bob Paugh took his final ride in 1987, and all operations were transferred to Ron Paugh.

As Paughco celebrates its 50th anniversary, the company remains dedicated to the production of an ever-expanding line of products.

Terry Rymer

Born in September of 1960 in Aberdeen, and raised in a single-parent home with his mother and two younger sisters, Terry Rymer never really had motorcycles on his radar.

At the age of 17, Rymer purchased a new 1977 Yamaha IT175 that served as both a race and road bike. That purchase made Rymer a staple at the local Yamaha shop, which turned a free-time hangout Terry into a full-time job in 1978.

Rymer Rymer learned

motorcycle sales, parts sales, promotions, marketing, with an emphasis on improving customer interaction and experiences; all of which proved to be valuable tools for the future. At the age of 24, wanting more of a motorcycle racing scene, Rymer packed up everything and moved to Rapid City. In 1986, things started to accelerate with Harley-Davidson and the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

His dream was realized in 2010, after 25 years with Black Hills Harley-Davidson: from parts counter to general manager, Rymer’s lifelong commitment to the dealership paid off when he was made partner of Black Hills Harley-Davidson.

Motorcycle racing was, and still is, Rymer’s passion. (particularly flat track.)

Rymer has promoted or co-promoted many races throughout his career and presently owns a race team that sponsors local Sturgis rider Dawson Schieffer campaigning in the American Flat Track Series.

Vince Consiglio

A true Detroit product, Vince Consiglio worked his way through college working at the Big Three at the time: Chrysler, GM, and Ford. However, when Consiglio’s factory jobs laid him off, he took his first cross-country motorcycle ride from Detroit to Las Vegas; traveling Route 66 with just $20 in gas and the freedom of the road. Riding free in California, not in Michigan, threw Consiglio in court in 1974. This experience, and his love of riding motorcycles, drove Consiglio to ABATE of Michigan in 1975. After several years of battling legislation, a number of ABATE directors became the motorcycle safety foundation (MSF) instructors in 1979 with the goal of establishing motorcycle education programs. Consiglio’s MSF programs helped lead to legislative success in motorcycle education. Today, the Detroit-metro regional program is run through Schoolcraft College Vince and is celebrating Consiglio 100,000 students being trained from 1981-2019.

Consiglio holds firm that helmets do not prevent accidents. Rider education, tougher licensing, and motorcycle awareness are the keys to reducing motorcycle fatalities in Michigan.

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2019

Tubby’s Quality Food and Prices to Match

Quick Service!

Breakfast • Burgers • Chicken

Check website for hours: TubbysLunchbox.com 109 N. 6th Street • Sundance, WY 307-281-2257

(Located Behind the Carwash) 1845 5TH AVENUE, BELLE FOURCHE

605.892.4125 HOURS

MON.–THURS. 9AM–9PM FRI.–SAT. 9AM–10PM SUNDAY 10AM–7PM

BELLE PACKAGE LIQUOR HOME OF THE

BIGGEST BEER CAVE IN BELLE FOURCHE

Stop in and enjoy our everyday low prices, volume discounts, and great in-store specials!

We have a large variety of wines and a vast selection of craft beers to choose from, including local favorites like Crow Peak and Prairie Berry.

Welcome!

We also offer nonalcoholic treats such as old fashioned 1919 Keg Root Beer, snacks, and Dimock Cheese!

BUD & BUD LITE 12 OZ. - 24 PK. SUITS

2055

COORS & COORS LITE 12 0Z. - 24 PK. SUITS

1975

$

CRAFTBEER

Sample a single bottle, or create your own craft beer sampler!

$

We also have a

LARGE VARIETY of

CIGARS in our humidor

If we do not have your favorite wine, beer or spirit in stock, let us know and we will be happy to place a special order.

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