HOG Magazine Canada by Fresh Air Productions

$6.99 can spring 2012

for the harley-davidson enthusiast since 1916 ®

canadian edition

THE SPRING ISSUE

ROAD KING® MODEL VS. SWITCHBACK™ MODEL: TWO RED-HOT TOURING MOTORCYCLES / BACK TO THE FUTURE: NETHERTON COTTAGE NEW YORK STATE OF MIND: A SNEAK PEEK AT THE FUTURE OF H-D® / HARLEY-DAVIDSON® ON THE POLICE FRONTLINE

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With the purchase of any new Harley-Davidson® model from an authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson® Retailer, you will receive a free, full one-year membership in H.O.G.® Always ride with a helmet. Ride defensively. exclusively ® magazine 2 hogDistributed canadain Canada by Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada, Richmond and Concord. Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada is a proud sponsor of Muscular Dystrophy Canada. The Bar & Shield logo, Harley, Harley-Davidson are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC. ©2011 H-D.

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Ride &

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Departments 6

welcome Note The sweet smell of Spring … exhaust

Intake

Letters from members.

Nuts & Bolts: Behind every great showroom is a great service room.

BackStage

13 Front Shop 14 16 18

News UFC fighters show off new motorcycles, Movember a success. Backstory Firepower to Horsepower: The plant that now rolls out the world’s greatest motorcycles once rolled out powerful weapons. Gallery A bit of everything from our readers.

On the cover: A sparrow finds the perfect perch, a sign of springtime

41 42 44 47 56

Back Shop

Pitstop Putting a stop to it. The art of custom wheels. Let’s get ready to rumble. New bikes.

50 Rally Rides Important upcoming events and dates. 52 Enthusiasts Pink my Ride. 55 Enthusiasts Hardcore H.O.G.® Member Russ Spooner. 58 Riding Stories There’s no place like family.

and the start of the riding season.

64 Foursquare criss-cross.

Photograph by Konstantin Egorov.

66 Exhaust Bugs on my windshield.

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The new Harley‑Davidson Road Glide custom model is a handy machine for chewing up the highway ®

↓

CONTENTS /

MARCH 2012

Features 22

THE ROAD KING® MODEL VS. SWITCHBACK™ MODEL Two red-hot touring bikes face off in the California mountains. Each comes out a winner — in its own unique way. By Matt King

A NEW YORK STATE OF MIND The future of Harley-Davidson® manufacturing is riding on an orange electric cart. By Charles Plueddeman.

BACK TO THE FUTURE Harley-Davidson® motorcycle riders find out why Netherton Cottage and The Davidson Legacy are so special. By Adam Bolton

HARLEY-DAVIDSON® ON THE POLICE FRONTLINE The police motorcycle training course … from a student motor officer’s perspective. By Chief Rodney B. Freeman.

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WELCOME NOTE / MARCH 2012 “NO MATTER HOW LONG THE WINTER, SPRING IS SURE TO FOLLOW”

THE SWEET SMELL OF SPRING … EXHAUST

“Before you toss in the key and pop the clutch take a moment to check out what you need for a proper spring tune-up with your local authorized Canadian HarleyDavidson® Retailer.”

For all you diehard riders who didn’t want the riding season to end and took advantage of the “snowless” early winter riding, I love your passion and perseverance. But now that the snow has come and we are looking towards spring, when does our Canadian riding season actually begin? This is a subjective question. The only way to really answer it is to say that the riding season begins when you decide to get on your bike. Some of you will mount your motorcycles sooner rather than later, with the appropriate gear. Others will wait for the fair weather to come. It’s all about personal preference. If you’re new to motorcycling, you may be a fair-weather rider for your first few years. However, you can only maintain the selective ideals for so long because eventually everyone will get caught in a rain storm. That’s when the evolution begins. You get used to the rain and the cold, and you learn how to better prepare for it. Then, before you know it, your riding season is extended longer and longer. Keep in mind that before you toss in the key and pop the clutch, your bike needs a full inspection and a proper tune-up. Take a moment to check out what you need to analyze for a proper spring tune-up with your local authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson® Retailer, or review the checklist on page 47. You may even want to consider taking advantage of an experienced-rider class as well. We’ll even reimburse you for $50 with our Safe Riders Skills Program, if you take an accredited course and submit your paperwork. For those of you who have taken advantage of our ABCs of Touring Program in the past, I am thrilled to tell you that we have put a fresh new spin on an old favourite by making it easier to collect points AND by putting up a great new prize: a 2012 SwitchbackTM motorcycle. For more details and information, go to the “MY MEMBERSHIP” section of members.hog.com. If you haven’t already heard, another new twist on an old favourite is making the former “Million Mile Monday” riding day into a two-day event. Mondays still suck … but I think the end of the weekend is an even more fun day to ride with your friends! As you’re transitioning from the garage to the road, ensure that your H.O.G.® membership is renewed. Considering the benefits of membership, this could be the most important document in your possession, and it is the only one that is designed to protect you along the way, while giving you places to go and reasons to ride! Last, but not least, I want to acknowledge Chantele Cumberbatch, Program & Benefits Coordinator for all her hard work, as the current editor of HOG® Magazine Canada, and encourage you to continue to send her your stories, photos and comments, all of which contribute to this great magazine! Stay tuned for more from Chantele in upcoming issues. Have a safe journey and a fun ride! Gina McNeil Manager, Enthusiast Services

HOG® MAGAZINE CANADA FEATURES SOME CONTENT FROM THE US EDITION OF HOG® MAGAZINE AND EUROPEAN EDITIONS OF HOG® MAGAZINE.

THE CANADIAN EDITION IS PUBLISHED BY: CHANTELE CUMBERBATCH EDITOR GINA MCNEIL MANAGER, ENTHUSIAST SERVICES SCOTT CLARK PRODUCTION TERESA COLUSSI COMMUNICATIONS FRAN MOORE SENIOR MANAGER, MARKETING OPERATIONS DOM BOVALINO MARKETING DIRECTOR PRODUCTION, DESIGN & SALES BY

WWW.BKMEDIA.CA HOG® MAGAZINE CANADA IS PUBLISHED BY THE HARLEY OWNERS GROUP® CANADA

SEND US YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS TO: EDITOR@HOGCANADA.CA HOGMAGAZINECANADA.CA

GORDIE BOWLES PRODUCTION LISA THÉ DESIGN DON CAMERON DESIGN FRENCH MARK KRISTOFIC SALES Please direct any advertising inquiries to MARK@BKMEDIA.CA

We care about you. Ride safely, respectfully and within the limits of the law and your abilities. Always wear an approved helmet, proper eyewear and protective clothing and insist your passenger does too. Never ride while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Know your Harley® motorcycle and read and understand your owner’s manual from cover to cover. HOG® Magazine Canada is published quarterly by the Harley Owners Group® Canada. Due to various circumstances, some information in this issue is subject to change. Harley-Davidson, Harley, H-D, H.O.G. logo and the Harley-Davidson logo are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC. No part of this publication may be reproduced for any reason without written consent from the editor. By sending your submissions, you are giving Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Harley-Davidson Owners Group® of Canada Ltd., and their affliates, the unrestricted right, permission, and authority to use and publish your name and city of residence, any photograph or image of you, including any statements you make, for publication in HOG® Magazine

Canada or for posting on members.hog.com, without consideration or compensation of any kind whatsoever. You further hereby irrevocably release and waive any right, claim, or cause of action you may have against Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Harley-Davidson Owners Group® of Canada Ltd., and their affiliates, for compensation, libel, or invasion of privacy, or any other liability whatsoever. Harley Owners Group® reserves the right to edit stories for content, length and clarity. With the purchase of any new Harley-Davidson® model from an authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson® Retailer, you will receive a free, full one-year membership in H.O.G.® Always ride with a helmet. Ride defensively. Distributed exclusively in Canada by Deeley HarleyDavidson® Canada, Richmond and Concord. Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada is a proud sponsor of Muscular Dystrophy Canada. To find your local authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson® Retailer, visit www.harleycanada.com today. ©2012 H-D. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.

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Roadside Assistance = $100 value Touring Handbook = $50 value Safe Rider Skills Program = $50 value HOG Magazine = $30 value Renewal Patches & Pins = $10 value Mileage Program = $10 value per level reached ABCs of Touring = $10-$50 value ®

(depending upon prize level)

Membership Service Centre— Toll Free 1-800-668-4836 Million Mile Monday H.O.G. Website — members.hog.com ®

Theft Reward Program H-D Authorized Rentals NEW — Digital eNews / Magazine Site www.hogmagazinecanada.ca ®

Best Western Rewards — Sign-up at 1-888-292-2453 Pin Stops Rallies & Events Worldwide Coordination and Travel Support of Regional Directors Production of the Canadian National Rally Support for Regional & Provincial Rallies Production of the Chapter Handbook Chapter Support Member Support Retailer Support Production of Chapter Officer and Rally Coordinator Training (HOT and HRCT) Liability insurance and coverage for Chapter officers and Chapter activities. HOG Magazine Canada e-Newsletter ®

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INTAKE / MARCH 2012 LETTERS FROM OUR MEMBERS

Editor’s Pick

NOISE POLLUTION I’ve been riding Harley® motorcycles on and off for almost 30 years and I’ve been a H.O.G.® lifetime member since 1987. My current ride is a 1978 FLHP bike. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of owning several versions of the Big Twin Harley® motorcycle. I count my blessings for the opportunity to live in a country free of any restrictions that would prevent me from enjoying this passion. Now to the point: last month I was in the downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, area of Gastown, standing on Cambie Street, enjoying the evening air. Then I heard it. Muted at first, then louder and louder as the obvious sound of a Harley® motorcycle approached. Just then, I saw him as he turned left onto Cambie Street heading my way. A Twin Cam® engine on a beautiful copper-coloured FLT. All well and good, except for one thing ... the noise. This bike was fitted with pipes that were so loud it had the very visible effect of annoying everyone on the block. As the rider stopped at the next intersection, not content to let the bike idle, he began to race the engine as he sat there. I have to tell you, this was embarrassing. As this rider sat there making a complete fool of himself, he left all those within earshot with a completely negative impression of the Brand and the people who love these bikes. Until now, I hesitated to write in about this, but as time goes by, it is not sitting well with me. This rider’s complete lack of consideration for others hurts us all. For the record, my bike retains the stock two in one exhaust. It looks and sounds great. — Bruce Caister, Port Coquitlam, B.C.

Correction: The photo caption in the members gallery was incorrectly labelled in the Winter 2012 issue page 18. The riders were en route to the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia. We regret this error.

Ghost Writers

High Octane T-shirt

First, I want to thank you for publishing the timely feature on riding through the Nevada desert Ghosts of the Open Road, Fall 2011, page 34. I had a trip planned from Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park, and this article helped me round out the rest of my ride plan. My last stop, and one of the highlights of my trip, was hanging out at the Happy Burro in Beatty, Nevada. I just had to see how that toilet worked! I also met Crystal, the bartender and daughter of the owners, Fred and Patti. They serve incredible chili and ice-cold drinks, just what one needs after a long, hot ride through the desert. I highly recommend this interesting little motorcycle-friendly town for your next ride through Nevada. — Joe Bilotta, via e-mail

I read the recent HOG Magazine Canada thoroughly when it arrived, and was impressed by the article on David Uhl and his unique artwork High Octane Oils, Fall 2011 issue. I had my wife read it to encourage her in the creativity of artistic design. She also expresses herself using the pen and paper technique and is an avid quilter. She is currently designing a Harley® themed quilt. It turns out that a Harley® t-shirt that I own (Old Skuhl) is similar to the one displayed in the article. It’s the most unique T-shirt that I have. I looked more closely at it and it is one of David’s designs ... that is so cool. I will always value this particular shirt, which I bought in Hawaii. Which leads me to my question for you. You regularly publish people’s photos regarding unique rides and the ®

experiences of Harley® bike owners. Our Hawaii experience this past November was exceptional in that we rented a Street Glide® motorcycle and rode around the Islands of Oahu and Honolulu with a private tour guide, seeing and experiencing very interesting locations and vistas. I would like to encourage other motorcycle riders to ride a Harley® motorcycle in Hawaii, or maybe promote the dream of going on such a ride. Harley® motorcycles are bountiful in Hawaii. — Christopher Rynberk, Niagara Chapter

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one before it to catch up. By the time you get to the back, those bikes may have to go 24 kms or more over the speed limit to get back in formation. Often they then hit the brakes too suddenly when they get there — another dangerous situation. Isn’t it better for the leaders to accelerate more slowly and ride at a slightly lower speed until everyone in the group catches up? — Bill Ciner, via e-mail

Group Thinking The article about riding in groups “Group Dynamics” Winter 2012, page 38 was interesting and something that I believe all H.O.G.® chapters should review at the beginning of every riding season. However, you failed to mention one thing about riding in groups, and I believe it is very important. It is when the leaders of the group accelerate too quickly and fail to let the group catch up without exceeding the speed limit. When the leaders take off and accelerate at their usual pace, the resulting dynamics mean that each bike behind the leader has to accelerate faster than the

The article “Group Dynamics” — Winter 2012, page 38 brought a recent incident to mind. While driving in our car, my wife and I caught up to a herd of 15 motorcycles on a two-lane highway that goes through hilly and curvy terrain. They were following all the rules for group riding as described in the article. The problem was they were traveling at a speed of 16-24 kms below the posted limit. Passing lanes are short, few, and far between on that stretch of road, so passing the entire group safely in one big swoop was out of the question. As you can imagine, vehicles stacked up far behind us. The back two bikes allowed some separation between them and the next bike, so I was able to pass them, but that was it. The rest of the bikes stayed together so we all had to follow the bikes for almost 32 kms at the speed dictated by the lead bike. I have several thousand kms of group riding under my seat, but the group that I ride with has never been in this situation for the obvious reason — we ride the speed limit (or better). My question is: What should

a large group of motorcyclists do if they’re holding up traffic? I thought the back two bikes reacted in the correct manner: create separation so fastermoving traffic can pass. Then the next two should do the same and so on. What’s your take on this? This is a situation that can create frustration and maybe result in a case of road rage. Motorcyclists shouldn’t expect respect from drivers if we don’t show them the same respect. — Larry Stuart, via e-mail Thanks for writing, Bill and Larry. We’ll have the article’s author, Becky Tillman, answer your questions. — Ed.

would suggest doing two other things when riding as a group in such conditions: 1) Break into smaller groups. Two groups of seven or eight would be much better than 15 in one bunch; 2) Every few kms, or as often as necessary, find a place to pull over safely and stop to let the cars behind you pass. You’ll note that these two options are related, as it’s much easier to do the second one if you do the first one. Also, if riders in your group aren’t experienced and/ or confident enough to ride the speed limit on such roads, consider planning an alternate route — or even a special ride — for those riders. — Becky Tillman

Both are great questions. Bill, your letter also alludes to something that wasn’t presented quite properly in the original article. When stopped at a stop sign, riders should proceed with caution through the intersection individually, not as a group. Often, riders pass through at once in order to prevent the “catch up” situation you describe. But a better approach, as you suggest, is for the leaders to take it a little slow until the other riders have the opportunity to regroup. Larry, you come pretty close to answering your own question. There’s really no excuse for riding so slowly as a group in such conditions. Group riders do not enjoy any special rights or privileges, and riding as you describe creates a hazardous (and frustrating) situation. However, trying to let multiple cars pass two bikes at a time makes for a lot of passing — in difficult passing conditions! I

Question of the day:

If H.O.G.® didn’t exist tomorrow — it only lived in memory — and you never saw another rally, chapter or member … What would Harley® owners lose?

Send us your letters!

We welcome all letters and feedback to HOG® Magazine Canada. Letters should be 100-150 words. E-mail your feedback to editor@hogcanada.ca and put “Intake” in the e-mail subject. Include your name, telephone number and e-mail address. We reserve the right to edit submissions for length and clarity.

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BACKSTAGE /

MARCH 2012

NUTS & BOLTS

Behind every great showroom is a great service room. Noted for their exceptional service, Harley-Davidson速 Retailers know how best to service your motorcycle with Factoryapproved methods and equipment to keep your ride running at its peak. Visit your nearest Retailer or go online for suggested maintenance schedules.

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Photograph by Grant Harder

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GO WITH YOUR GUT

Entering the H.O.G.® ABCs of Touring contest leads to some tantalizing choices. But no matter where it leads, you’ll always find adventure. Just ride with a copy of HOG® magazine and a camera to take pictures of you and your bike with “official signs” for towns and counties from A to Z, and other designated places to earn points. For 2012, it’s better than ever,with simpler rules, more prizes, and the chance to win a 2013 Harley-Davidson® SwitchbackTM motorcycle. Get out there, get riding, and get started on your 2012 entry.

FPO

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY TO WIN. A PURCHASE DOES NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia and Canada who are at least 18 years of age or the age of majority in the state, province or territory where they reside, whichever is older, at the time of entry. A 2013 standard base Harley-Davidson DYNA® SwitchbackTM Motorcycle has an approximate retail value of US$25,000 (CAN$25,600). Sweepstakes begins January 1, 2012 and ends December 31, 2012. Void where prohibited. Visit the Take Part section of members.hog.com or hog.com for a complete set of Official Sweepstakes Rules. 12

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FRONT SHOP/

MARCH 2012

NEWS

UFC fighters show off new motorcycles, Movember a success

BACKSTORY

Firepower to Horsepower: The plant that now rolls out the world’s greatest motorcycles once rolled out powerful weapons.

GALLERY A bit of everything from HOG ® Magazine Canada readers

Photographs courtesy of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company Archives. Copyright H-D.

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FRONT SHOP / MARCH 2012 NEWS • BACKSTORY • GALLERY

Harley-Davidson Motor Company Announcement

SNEAK PEAK — H.O.G.® MEMBERS RECEIVE EARLY ACCESS

Harley-Davidson Motor Company was pleased to announce initial plans to celebrate 110 years of great motorcycles and 30 years of Harley Owners Group® in 2013. Details are in the works, but mark your calendar now and start making plans to attend this epic event in Milwaukee on Labour Day weekend.

The celebration begins on Thursday, August 29, 2013 — including a special H.O.G.® 30th Anniversary Celebration — and continues through Sunday, September 1 with a full slate of memorable 110th Anniversary festivities. In addition, the 110th Anniversary Celebration will include a major event in Rome, Italy, June 13-16, 2013. But Rome and Milwaukee are just the starting point. We’ll be celebrating at many more locations and events all around the world. Those Canadian H.O.G.® members who signed up to receive the e-News received an exclusive “sneak peek” on

February 1st and were the first to know about receiving early access to hotel reservations in Milwaukee which started on February 9, 2012 at 8 a.m. Central Standard Time. H.O.G.® members can make up to five hotel reservations in Milwaukee per H.O.G.® member. Continue to visit www.h-d.com/110 to get more information — and don’t forget to make your Milwaukee hotel accommodations now! If you would like to receive the Canadian e-News in the future, please go to www.hogmagazinecanada.ca to sign-up.

MOVEMBER SUCCESS Formerly known as November, Movember is a global initiative that is dedicated to raising awareness of men’s health issues. It has become Canada’s most successful fundraiser for prostate cancer awareness and research. This year marked the first time Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada partnered with Movember. Together, 416 Harley-Davidson® Mo Bros and Mo Sistas, with donations from countless other Harley-Davidson® staff, family, and H.O.G.® members, raised over $125,000 for this worthwhile cause. Canadians’ support of Movember was unparalleled again this year. Canada has raised $40 million, well ahead of any other country and over $12 million more than last year. Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada, as part of their support, donated a 2012 Night Rod® Special motorcycle. The contest was open to anyone who raised over $100 for Movember. Congratulations go to Bobby Tinkler of Rawdon, Quebec, whose name was drawn from over 150,000 entries.

UFC FIGHTERS SHOW OFF NEW MOTORCYCLES As part of a multi-year sponsorship agreement between Harley-Davidson Motor Company and The Ultimate Fighting Championship®, an impressive motorcycle display was set up at the UFC140 event, held at Toronto’s Air Canada Centre. Visitors got their pictures taken with sizzling hot girls next to the Night Rod® Special motorcycle and the V-Rod Muscle® motorcycle. Earlier in the afternoon, UFC® fighters, Brendan Schaub and Jake Shields, signed autograph cards, together with Octagon-girl, Brittney Palmer, at the HarleyDavidson® corporate booth at the Toronto MMIC Motorcycle Show. The next Canadian UFC event is slated for March 24, 2012, at the Bell Centre in Montreal. For updates, check out the HarleyDavidson® Canada page on facebook.com/harleycanada.

HARLEY® ON SCREEN Harley-Davidson® Sportster® XLCH model in The Born Losers, 1967 Harley-Davidson® Softail® Custom motorcycle in Masters of Menace, 1990 Harley-Davidson® FLHR Road King® motorcycle in Meteor Storm, 2010 Harley-Davidson® Dyna® model in Poker Run, 2008

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HARLEY-DAVIDSON ®… BORN TO GLIDE By Mark Hinchliffe

This is a grand touring, gangsta style, two-wheel equivalent of a Chrysler 300C. The new Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® Custom motorcycle is not only a pimped-up attention getter, but also a handy machine for chewing up the highway kilometres. It started life as a Tour Glide model in the U.S. in 1996, and later became the Road Glide® model, but this is its first time in the Australian line-up. Think of it as a Street Glide® model with the half-fairing attached to the chassis.

VALUE The bike comes loaded with gear, and it has an integrated stereo system and a massive “bikini” fairing with twin headlights. It also comes with cruise control and wiring for accessories such as spotlights. RIDING The key to the handling is that the fairing is attached to the chassis, not the forks, like the other Touring bikes. Advantages are that the steering is lighter for low-speed manoeuvring and the bike is more stable at high speed. Also, wind blasts from passing trucks don’t cause any oscillation through the bars. The short windscreen can be replaced with a higher screen, but I prefer the look-over screen with reduced buffeting. The airflow under the fairing blows engine heat away from your legs. As in all Touring models, it also has an engine cut-out system to switch off the rear cylinder while you are waiting in traffic, so your legs don’t sizzle.

TECHNOLOGY At its heart is the big 1,690 cc fuel-injected engine which is now used in all Touring, Softail® and most Dyna® models. Cruise and basic audio controls are on the handlebars, but some of the audio controls, such as station presets, are on the console, which is a bit of a reach forward for the rider. There is a “nav” button on the console, but satnav is only available on CVOTM models. The sound system has an auxiliary socket for an MP3 player, but only the CVOTM models have iPod connectivity. A 12-volt outlet to power an external audio device is under the left weather-proof glovebox.

SAFETY All Harley® models, except Sportster® models, are equipped with anti-lock brakes. It is a smooth and effective system that uses light sensors, rather than an ugly mechanical ring around the brake disc that would have spoiled the clean look of the five-spoke alloy wheels. The brakes also have powerful Brembo calipers, derived from the V-Rod® family.

DESIGN Styling is polarizing. Some may think that the nose looks a bit too prominent from the side angle, but the twin headlights provide an appealing front-on look. With a lot of surface area on the bike, especially the fairing, it is a blank canvas crying out for custom paintwork. There are lashings of chrome in the engine, forks, exhaust pipes and protection bars. There are weatherproof and lockable hard-plastic panniers. The rider gets a full floorboard, while the pillion gets pegs.

VERDICT The Road Glide® model’s prominent nose and twin headlights make a bold statement on the road. On the practical side, it is a comfortable way for two people to see the world.

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FRONT SHOP / MARCH 2012 NEWS • BACKSTORY • GALLERY

FROM FIREPOWER TO HORSEPOWER

The plant that now rolls out the world’s greatest motorcycles once rolled out powerful and effective weapons. In 1941, to meet an urgent demand for anti-aircraft guns, the U.S. Navy contracted with York Safe & Lock to produce the legendary 40mm Bofors guns, one of the most widely used mid-weight anti-aircraft guns of World War II. On what once was farmland east of York, Pennsylvania, the company erected an $8 million special ordnance plant. The new facility delivered its first Bofors gun in 1942, and ultimately employed as many as 3,000 people. Following the death of company president, S. Forry Laucks, in 1942, production declined, leading the Navy to take possession of the property in 1944. The Naval Ordnance Division continued to operate on the site until 1964, when the facility was sold to American Machine and Foundry (AMF). AMF filled munitions contracts for the government, and also used the plant to manufacture bowling equipment, snowmobiles, and golf cars. AMF acquired HarleyDavidson Motor Company in 1969, and soon (in 1973) moved motorcycle assembly operations from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the York facility. In addition to motorcycle production, the facility that is now known as York Vehicle Operations continued to fill government contracts until 1999.

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Photographs courtesy of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company Archives. Copyright H-D.

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FRONT SHOP / MARCH 2012 NEWS • BACKSTORY • GALLERY

MEMBERS GALLERY

Tony Synnott — Gaspé, Quebec

Maddie and Papa, submitted by Catharine Osborn — Grand Falls, New Brunswick

Linda Fredette

Marianne McCabe and family in Montana — Kelowna, B.C.

Kevin Steeves on the Kancamagus Highway

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Lynden and Pop — Windsor, Ontario

Norman Baker’s son on a 09 Street Glide® motorcycle — Prince Rupert, B.C.

Larry Kornelsen (of Grunthal, Manitoba) in Bryce Canyon, Utah

Mike Geiss in the Grand Canyon

Wooden bike

Jacques Pipon’s motorcycle — Gaspé, Quebec

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FRONT SHOP / MARCH 2012 NEWS • BACKSTORY • GALLERY

MEMBERS GALLERY

T-Shirt Duvet — Richard Rowsell

Arlen and Christine Hildenbrand — Manitoba

Craig Walters — Ft. Pierce, Florida

Howard Obrand in front of the Dead Sea in Israel — Vancouver, B.C.

Christian Selnes submitted by Dr. J. Eric Selnes — Oakville, Ontario

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Daniel Fiset (of Quebec City) in New Orleans, Louisiana

Camping in the Rockies, location unknown

Howard Lee Jr. — Chatham, Ontario

Brian and Brenda Blaney — Eastern Passage Nova Scotia

Darwin Osarchuk with B.C. Lions Paul McCallum and Geroy Simon — Vancouver, B.C.

Martin Brunet St-Hyacinthe, Quebec

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the ROADKING model vs ™ the SWITCHBACK model ®

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Two red-hot touring bikes face off in the California mountains. Each comes out a winner â&#x20AC;&#x201D; in its own unique way. By Matt King Photographs by Yve Assad

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INTRODUCED THIS SUMMER, the 2012 Dyna® SwitchbackTM motorcycle is off to a great start, with Retailers reporting strong interest in this new “mini-bagger”, built on the nimble Dyna® platform. Smaller and lighter than its cousins in the Touring family, the SwitchbackTM motorcycle has been hailed as a full-featured Touring bike for small-statured riders. And it also brings a twist: the ability to quickly denude it of its windshield and saddlebags into a stripped-down cruiser. Based on the marketing briefs and Customer feedback on the Dyna® platform, I knew the primary target market was riders who may be uncertain about the size and weight of a full-size Touring bike, but my first reaction upon seeing a SwitchbackTM bike for the first time, months before its public unveiling, was not so much that it looked like a downsized Road King® model, but how much it resembled a vintage FLH, both in size and style. A little background for those new to the game: from 1936 through 1984, the primary Big Twin model in the Harley-Davidson® motorcycle lineup was based on a traditional doubledowntube frame with a rigidly mounted V-twin engine and four-speed transmission. Engines progressed from the Knucklehead (1936-1947) to the Panhead (1948-1965) to the Shovelhead (1966-1984), and the chassis evolved from a Springer® fork to a telescopic front end in 1949, and from a 24

hardtail to a swingarm rear suspension in 1958. During this period, model designations included EL, FL, and FLH depending upon the engine that was installed. From 1966 through its discontinuation in 1984 (some bikes were produced in 1985 for fleet sales), the basic FLH chassis remained largely unchanged, other than the addition of enhanced features like disc brakes and electric starting. Along the way came various cosmetic updates, including the introduction of the original Factory custom, the Super Glide® motorcycle, in 1971, a model that’s very much the spiritual predecessor to the current Dyna® family. But the original FLH models lived during the era when a single motorcycle platform was called upon to fill a wide range of

riding duties. So back to the SwitchbackTM motorcycle. Although the bulk of touring duty has been borne by models in the Touring family since the 1980s, HarleyDavidson Motor Company has produced several midsize Touring models over the years to fill the demand for a lighter, more agile bike that can still carry a passenger and cargo, including the FXRT Sport Glide® models, the FXDS Dyna® Convertible model, and the FXDXT model. The SwitchbackTM motorcycle follows in the footsteps blazed by these pioneering mid-size tourers. I like to think of the SwitchbackTM model as being as much a throwback to an earlier era as it is a response to current rider demographics. The exposed rear shocks, single-side exhaust, and retro-styled wheels all help to reinforce that connection. To help put the SwitchbackTM

motorcycle into its proper past and present context, I invited Anne Marie Arroyo, from the Harley Owners Group® management team, to join me for a two-day ride in California’s San Gabriel Mountains just north of Los Angeles. An experienced, but petite, rider, she’s very much one type of rider who might be attracted to a mid-size Touring bike. Other potential Customers for the SwitchbackTM motorcycle are newer riders who are looking to move up from their first bike, older riders wanting to “downsize”, or someone in the market for a versatile motorcycle at an attractive price. So that’s pretty much anybody! California Highway No. 2, better known as Angeles Crest Highway, is one of the legendary motorcycling roads in the U.S., and with its starting

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A FEMALE RIDER’S VIEW

THE CONTRAST BETWEEN THE TWO BIKES CAME ON THE TWISTY SWITCHBACKS OF THE ANGELES CREST. point barely 10 miles north of downtown Los Angeles, one of the most accessible. Yet despite its proximity to the nearly 15 million residents of LA County, we practically had the road to ourselves for a couple of days in early October. It was the perfect setting to compare the SwitchbackTM motorcycle to its closest kin in the Touring family: a 2012 Road King® motorcycle. Visually, the SwitchbackTM and the Road King® motorcycles have much in common: both feature a fully shrouded chromed headlight nacelle and fork tube covers, hardshell saddlebags, fat gas tanks with chromed console, full-size footboards, and detachable windshields. Performancewise, both models share the same 103 cubic-inch Twin Cam engine, six-speed Cruise DriveTM

transmission, and optional Antilock Advanced Braking System. Dissimilarities begin with dimensions: the Road King® motorcycle outweighs the Dyna® model by about 80 pounds and a considerable amount of girth, as well as having a higher and wider seat compared to the Dyna® SwitchbackTM motorcycle. The contrast between the two bikes came on the twisty switchbacks of the Angeles Crest. A key feature of the SwitchbackTM motorcycle is an all-new front suspension with lower ride height, revised damping, a 17-inch front tire, and revised geometry to create lighter, more responsive handling. While the Road King® motorcycle is surprisingly agile

at both high and low speed, it’s most comfortable on the highway and when the rider has ample time to plan for the curves ahead. The SwitchbackTM motorcycle, conversely, reacted more quickly to steering inputs and was more eager to change direction or initiate a correction with the slightest nudge of countersteer. As an average-size rider, I felt equally comfortable on either bike. Although I could readily appreciate the size difference, the Road King® motorcycle didn’t feel “too big”, nor did the SwitchbackTM motorcycle feel “too small”. I was happy to ride either bike on the highway or in the twisties, and if I had to pick just one, it would probably come down to the difference in price versus the expected frequency of carrying a passenger or gear for long distances, which better suits the Road King® motorcycle. The SwitchbackTM motorcycle’s responsive handling and great power-toweight ratio, combined with its dual personality, are perfect for those times when you want to strip down to the essentials with the wind in your face, riding solo with just the clothes on your back.

What a treat to ride in the beautiful mountains of California! I have to admit it was a challenge to focus on the task at hand when we were surrounded by such incredible views. However, those moments of Zen were few and far between as we encountered some of the twistiest roads that I have ever ridden. Comparing the Road King® TM motorcycle to the Switchback motorcycle, I felt more comfortable navigating those TM twisties on the Switchback motorcycle. I could lean the smaller bike more easily into the curves, and my body felt better positioned, from the reach of the bar to how my feet rested on the footboards. Both bikes that Matt and I rode were stock, so I was somewhat challenged with the Road King® motorcycle, as my feet weren’t flat on the ground nor were my arms comfortable with the handlebar positioning (both of which could be addressed with parts available in the H-D® Fit Shop). The difference in weight was also noticeable, especially when parking in precarious situations like gravel or uneven surfaces. If I had to choose between the Road King® and the TM Switchback motorcycles, I would pick the latter for its versatility, and reduced size and weight. I was also very impressed with the ease of changing the look from Touring bike to cruiser – taking the hard bags and windshield off only took me a matter of seconds. (As a bonus, I think that I looked cool while doing so, as other riders curiously watched the transformation). I haven’t owned a bike with bags and a windshield for over 10 years, but it looks like that may be changing! — Anne Marie

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A Softail motorcycle is elevated to an ideal work height. Plastic guards protect the fuel tank and oil tank. 速

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YORK A New

By Charles Plueddeman

State of Mind

The future of Harley-Davidson® manufacturing is riding on an orange electric cart

Water-slide tank decals are applied by hand.

Late this summer the Harley-Davidson Motor Company completed the move into a new facility at its York Vehicle Operations site in York, Pennsylvania, that puts all Softail®, Touring, Trike, and CVOTM models on a single, integrated assembly line. The project condenses a campus with 41 buildings into one manufacturing facility. The original building, opened in 2003 for Softail® model assembly, has been expanded from 350,000 square feet to 650,000 square feet. Working in stages over two years, the facility was overhauled from top to bottom to accommodate fundamental lean concepts and the latest manufacturing technology, including a fleet of automatic guided carts (AGC) that carry each motorcycle through the assembly line, guided by a strip of magnetized tape on the floor. “This is really part of a transformation of all the HarleyDavidson® manufacturing operations, including the operation at York,” said Ed Magee, General Manager of York Vehicle Operations. “It incorporates three strategies. One is to ensure the Company’s competitiveness in the marketplace. The second is to make York a more competitive producer of component parts, some of which are shipped to other Completely Knocked Down (CKD) HarleyDavidson® facilities for final assembly. Many of the principles we’re implementing here at York will soon be adopted at other Company facilities such as the Kansas City assembly plant, and the plants in Tomahawk and at Pilgrim Road that produce various motorcycle components. So in that sense, York is blazing a trail for the future of Harley-Davidson® manufacturing. “Finally, and perhaps most pertinent to our Customers, is the enhanced production flexibility afforded by this new plant,” said Magee. “This will allow us to better meet Customer demand and fill retailer orders on a more frequent schedule than we have been able to do in the past. The result is better inventory control; faster hog® magazine canada

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YORK A New

State of Mind

Components of a Touring frame are loaded into the fixture that will carry them into an automated welding cell.

delivery; and the ability to add new colours, accessories, and other updates during the model year. To make that happen, we need to adopt the practices of modern lean manufacturing.” To achieve that state of leanness, Magee explains that the new York facility incorporates many concepts developed in the automotive industry. A supplier partner now provides off-site component logistics and sub-assembly operations, and delivers a constant stream of those components to Building 3, which ideally will have on hand only the components required for three hours of production. The 1,400 Harley-Davidson® employees at York are focused on three critical core competencies: fabrication of fenders, gas tanks, and frames; paint; and final vehicle assembly.

FABRICATION Contemporary technology is evident everywhere at York, but it often mingles with very traditional manufacturing methods. Fenders, for example, are formed in a classic deep-draw process that utilizes a towering ram to exert 300 tons of pressure that bends and stretches sheets of American steel over polished dies. But it’s an orange robotic arm that plucks the fender from the press and then places it in a cell where a new robotic laser trims excess material. In constant 28

motion and always positioned at 90 degrees to its work, the laser makes clean, precise cuts, completing a fender in 35 seconds. Every Harley-Davidson® motorcycle has a backbone of welded steel, created in a shower of sparks and glowing energy. Frames for Softail® and Touring models are made on separate lines. The Softail® frame was designed to take advantage of automated welding techniques, but the process used to weld and assemble the new Touring frame utilizes the next generation of robotics and welding automation. Working at the portal to a $3 million welding cell the size of a garage, an operator loads a fixture with the rigid Touring frame backbone weldment and 14 other steel parts. A curtain drops, and the fixture rotates into the cell where six robots are ready to work. Three material-handling robots muscle the 1,000-pound fixture around. The other three are welding robots. In an intricate mechanical dance, the robots move in concert to present the welding target in an optimal position, completing 264 linear inches of welding in just four minutes. The frame and a tail section reappear together at a side-door inspection station, where a veteran human welder eyeballs every weld, scrapes off spatter, and touches up any bead that needs it by hand. The fixture flips back into the cell, and a robot places the frame and tail section on an exit conveyor. A

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A robotic arm moves around fuel tanks to apply paint evenly, and can change colors in 30 seconds.

Beals Tour Center

Complete Twin Cam powertrain units are shipped from Pilgrim Road Powertrain Operations, in Wisconsin, in the same sequence they will be placed in motorcycles at York, Pennsylvania. ®

at Harley-Davidson has offered free Factory tours at York since 1973, and that tradition continues at the new Vaughn L. Beals Tour Center located at Building 3. The tour centre features an exhibit that depicts the stages of motorcycle assembly that take place in the plant, but you can see it happen live by taking a free one-hour guided Factory tour that will put you inches away from the action. In the tour centre, you can also

sit on current-model HarleyDavidson® motorcycles, use interactive monitors to explore the Harley-Davidson® world, visit a play area for kids, and browse in the gift shop for clothing and souvenirs, many exclusive to York Vehicle Operations. The tour centre is open Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. Go to harley-davidson.com/york and click on the “Company” tab for directions and more information.

worker uses an electric lift device to hoist the 75-pound frame and tail section onto a rack mounted on an AGC. When it’s loaded with frames, the battery-powered AGC rolls off on its own to cue up for off-loading on the paint line.

light and any flaws measured down to 0.0010 inch are buffed away by hand. Painted frames and sheet metal emerge from the paint department and are staged for assembly. It’s time to build a HarleyDavidson® motorcycle.

PAINT It’s no exaggeration to say that H-D® produces a painted finish unmatched in the motorcycle, or automotive industry. At York, the paint department is housed in a building-within-a-building, a huge enclosed space at the centre of Building 3, much of which is a “clean room” environment. Frames are powder-coated, a finishing process that replaces wet paint with a durable coating of polyester resin applied in a powder form and cured with high heat to create a finish that’s resistant to road debris and weather. Sheet metal, tanks, and fenders are finished with wet paint applied in a multi-step process that combines automated spray booths with careful hand work. Robotic applicators apply striping, but if the part is to receive two-tone paint, it’s masked by hand. Water-slide decals are applied by hand using a laser device for perfect alignment. A final layer of baked clear coat creates a deep, beautiful finish. Each painted part is inspected under a bright

ASSEMBLY The assembly process begins when a frame is stamped with a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), that formally declares it to be a new Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. The frame is then clamped to the platform of an AGC that was custom-made for Harley-Davidson® manufacturing. A single AGC will carry the motorcycle on its entire journey through assembly. A master computer system monitors all aspects of the assembly process, and tracks 115 AGCs through radio tags and sensors in the floor. The system can also direct a cart to move to a new location. The cart platform self-adjusts through a 24inch range to best position the height of the motorcycle to the process at each station. The motorcycle can also be rotated on the cart. The assembly area is organized in five legs, designated A through E, each devoted to assembling a portion of the motorcycle. Leg A is focused on the “mid mod” or middle module of the motorcycle, including installation of the powertrain, drive belt, oiling system, and hog® magazine canada

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YORK A New

State of Mind

primary covers. Leg B is the “rear mod” and installs the rear wheel and fender, rear brake system, and Touring shocks. Devising this precise order of assembly, or “common bill of process,” for a line simultaneously building Touring, Trike, and Softail® platforms was a complicated task, according to Magee. “A team of engineers and experienced assembly workers collaborated for almost a year,” explains Magee. “They had to physically build and un-build motorcycles to determine the order that each part needed to go on in each model, and that sequence then served as the basis for the design of the assembly line, the tools that would be needed along the line, and the staging of parts.” Each leg of the assembly line is composed of a series of 12-footwide modular cells framed with steel beams. Electrical and air lines are attached to the cell, not to the floor or ceiling of the building. If the assembly area needs to be reorganized, cells can be added or relocated, and the path of the AGC changed by simply moving the tape on the floor. Monitors at each assembly station display 30

step-by-step instructions for each motorcycle as it passes through the station, and each step flashes green when it’s successfully completed. Many of the electric tools are connected to the station display and monitor the fastener tightening process. If the fastener is not installed properly, that step won’t go green on the display. If the problem can’t be solved quickly, anyone can pull a yellow cord to stop the line and ask for assistance. In a previous manufacturing era, stopping the line would be discouraged. At York today, the ability to stop the line for problemsolving is an element of a new team structure designed to engage all members of a work force that takes passionate pride in the product. Teams of six to eight workers gather daily with a team leader to go over production and quality metrics. Eight to nine team leaders work with one supervisor, acting as conduits for ideas and concerns. The team system is designed to make it easy for every employee’s voice to be heard and for ideas to get implemented quickly. As the AGCs glide through Leg C, the “front mod” area, a

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Above: An orange robotic arm lifts a steel fender from a deep-draw press. A laser cutter will trim excess material from the fender edges. Left: Automatic Guided Carts transport and lift motorcycles directly into a roll test booth for a live test of all systems at highway speed.

motorcycle begins to take shape with the addition of a fork, front wheel and fender, handlebar, and the inner fairing for Touring models. The handlebar and inner fairing are examples of subassemblies completed off site. The handlebars arrive at Building 3 fitted with hand grips, controls, and switches. Instruments have already been installed on the inner fairing. There’s a constant swirl of activity in the aisles between each leg of assembly as drivers manning electric tugs tow trailers stacked with bins holding parts as large as saddlebags, and as small as nuts and washers. Inventory is re-stocked to match the sequence of production. When a Big Blue Pearl Street Glide® motorcycle comes down the line, a Big Blue Pearl outer fairing needs to be waiting in the staging area.

ROLL TEST A process of quality control and inspection is in place throughout the York facility, but each completed motorcycle must pass one final, critical inspection — a roll test. The AGC pulls into a vented roll

test booth, and the technician pivots the bike 90 degrees and lowers its wheels onto rubber rollers. The technician plugs the motorcycle into a harness that flashes the electronic control module (ECM) with the correct software, and a fuel line is plugged into the engine. The technician then starts the bike and, following a standardized sequence, rides it for 1.5 miles on the rollers, reaching highway speeds. The rider tests the shifting of the transmission, the brakes, the balance of the wheels, even the cruise control, and also checks the lights and other electrical functions. No motorcycle leaves York without passing the roll test. The “new” York assembly facility is up and running, but it’s not finished. That’s by design. In a culture of continuous improvement, Harley-Davidson® employees work every day to be the new Factory, looking for ways to reinvent the process. The Company’s manufacturing vision — articulated by Harley-Davidson® President and CEO, Keith Wandell, as “Any Bike, Any Place, Any Time” — is one of enhanced manufacturing flexibility for faster response to Customer demand. hog® magazine canada

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Back to the

FUTURE

Harley-Davidson速 motorcycle riders, Nigel Thomson and Mags MacRae, find out why Netherton Cottage and The Davidson Legacy are so special Words and photos by Adam Bolton

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WITH A FINE Scottish drizzle blowing in from the North Sea and a Fall chill in the air, the old run-down cottage that has stood at Netherton since 1823 has a tangible atmosphere of history, of hardship, and of tough Scots’ pioneering spirit. It was from this home in Scotland in 1858, that Alexander ‘Sandy’ Davidson, a wright in the local smithy, closed the cottage door behind him for the last time. He led his wife Margaret and their six surviving children on a treacherous voyage west to North America in search of a better life. And despite the massive risk, the Davidson’s were indeed able to carve themselves a better future, 34

as three of Sandy’s grand– children — Arthur, William, and Walter — were to become co-founders of the HarleyDavidson Motor Company. Today, the stillness at the cottage that the Davidsons left behind is broken by the distant yet distinctive rumble of a Harley-Davidson® V-Twin engine, and the connection between past and present at Netherton Cottage is made. “Listen to that!” says Nigel Thomson with his finely tuned Harley® hearing. Nigel stands alongside his partner, Mags MacRae, at one end of the derelict cottage, inspecting the remains of the original, ancient cast-iron cooking range with

which Margaret Davidson would have cooked Sandy his tea, boiled water, or merely heated the small kitchen. Nigel and Mags are both passionate Harley® riders — his being a 2011 Sportster® 1200 Custom motorcycle and Mags’ being a 2010 Sportster® 883 SuperLow™ motorcycle; both are kitted out with a Stage One Screamin’ Eagle® Pro Tuner, a Heavy Breather Air Cleaner, and Vance Hines Shortshots — and are both H.O.G.® members. Their

passion is strong. “We just love our bikes,” says Nigel, “we love riding them, and we can’t believe people’s reactions to them, especially on Orkney Island, Scotland, where there are very few Harley® motorcycles.” “We feel an affinity with the other Harley® riders we meet,” adds Mags. “We met someone recently on a Harley® motorcycle on the ferry, and we chatted and had a connection straight away, and that’s nice!” Nigel and Mags are also

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two people who are proud of their Scottish heritage, so it’s particularly fitting that they are the winners of the HOG® magazine competition to visit Netherton Cottage and learn about their fellow Scotsman, who left for the USA all those years ago. The atmosphere at the cottage seems to have made an impression on them. “We thought it would just be a building site and nothing more,” says Nigel, “but there is definitely a vibe to the place. When I read the last article about Sandy Davidson, I was amazed to discover where he’d lived and what he did. It’s fascinating to be here and feel the sense of history about the place. You can stand here by the fireplace and easily imagine them living their lives here.” It’s true. Though most of the infrastructure of the cottage is in ruins and awaiting complete restoration, there are tantalizing glimpses into the past: the old tiny hand-built timber windows; patches of lime wash still on the walls; original beams with the builder’s saw marks, and hooks, nails, and architectural features hewn by hand from the local rock. The old cooking range

below the large chimney breast is easily the most evocative remnant. You can imagine Sandy leaning on the now rotting timber mantelpiece over the range to warm himself up. We placed a copy of one of the few photos of Sandy Davidson above the mantelpiece, and it’s quite a strange feeling to look at the face of the man who lived in this house and stood where you are standing. You can visualize his children crowding round the range to wash in a basic tin bath with water boiled over the always-hot grate. Then there’s a small pantry off to the back of the cottage, and among the debris there are some old keys on a rusty ring, and an unusual wooden-handled tool that no one can identify. Was it one of Sandy’s tools that he used as a wright, mislaid, and lost? Did the keys lock the pantry door to keep vital food stores safe from hungry Davidson children? Though it is obviously not as it was when the Davidsons left, the cottage has changed very little over the years. Nigel puts it succinctly when he says: “you’re not going back 500 years, but just 150 years. It’s part of recent Scottish social history, and here

you can reach out and touch it”. Mike Sinclair (who owns a 1989 Harley® FLHS motorcycle) and Maggie Sherrit, along with partner Keith Mackintosh, are the Harley® passionate locals that bought the cottage purely with the intention to save it from being flattened after almost 200 years. But their enthusiasm, sense of history, and vision mean that the cottage is now central to The Davidson Legacy (see HOG® Magazine Canada summer 2011 for their story), and they’re in full agreement with Nigel and Mags about how special the cottage at Netherton is. Mike shows them some of the fascinating finds that they’ve come across on the site. Bits of Victorian leather boots, spoons, basic earthenware pots and jars, old cut-throat razors, a ball and chain to tether a goat or pig, an elegant cast-iron mangle complete with a Scottish thistle decoration, a cobbler’s iron last — it’s like an archaeological dig is in continual progress, and there are big plans for the site. “We’re in the process of completely restoring the cottage to how it would have been in the 1850s when the Davidson’s lived here,” explains

Mike. “It’ll be watertight for the winter, and we expect to have the grand opening of a museum and visitor centre next summer. We’ll be using the original local Carmyllie roof slates that we’ve piled up here, and Douglas Fir for the beams and trusses. The floor is still made up of the original flagstones. The walls will be rebuilt using the boulders you see here, as it was originally. All the timber window frames will be remade individually to fit the gaps, which aren’t square! And the range will be restored to full working order.” He points to the land at the back of the cottage. “There’ll be an amenities block over here with showers and full cooking facilities, and then a secure double garage for motorcycles here.” Maggie adds, “people can come and stay here and have a unique experience, living in the Davidson house as it was before they left for the USA, but enjoying the advantages they certainly didn’t have of hot water and a kitchen available close by! Then using Netherton Cottage as a base you can ride around the beautiful countryside, visit Edinburgh an hour away, go to the coast, or ride to the mountains or the Highlands. It’s all here!” Nigel and Mags reckon they’ll ride down to stay here once everything is completed. “You can tell that Mike and Maggie are doers and have drive,” says Mags, “and fellow Harley® motorcycle owners from around the world will want to do the same.” “Harley-Davidson is such an iconic name that suggests so much,” says Nigel, “so when you visit here, you understand that without Sandy Davidson’s Scottish pioneering spirit, the Harley® Brand would simply not be what it is now.” To get involved, and for more information, visit davidsonlegacy.com. hog® magazine canada

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HARLEY-DAVIDSON on the ®

The police motorcycle training course ... from a student motor officer’s perspective By Chief Rodney B. Freeman, M.O.M., P.E.S.M., B.A.A., C.M.M. III

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POLICE FRONTLINE Since 1908, the HarleyDavidson® Police motorcycle has been complementing frontline police deployment in cities across North America. The advantages to deploying a motorcycle are many, including versatility in street patrol and enforcement opportunities, increased police visibility, a positive public perception, and a fresh, exciting patrol opportunity for motivated officers seeking a new experience. Motor patrol has recently enjoyed a renewed interest by police services that are looking for innovative ways to better serve their communities as traffic safety has repeatedly been identified by citizens as a high priority issue for police across

the province. For over 100 years now, Harley-Davidson Motor Company has had a rich tradition of successfully fulfilling law enforcement’s deployment needs. In 2006, the Ontario Police College and Deeley HarleyDavidson® Canada entered into a dynamic partnership. This partnership is designed to promote the efficient, effective, and safe deployment of police motorcycles through the development of highly skilled Motor Officers in police services across Canada and the United States. The last Police Motorcycle Officers Course, conducted during the 2011 riding season, was held at the Ontario Police College between September 19

and 30 under the professional instruction of Stan Hazen, a former 27-year auxiliary sergeant with the O.P.P., and a retired motorcycle Retail Store owner in Ingersoll, Ontario. The program is generously supported by Deeley HarleyDavidson® Canada and HarleyDavidson® Police Fleet Manager, Pat Kealey, himself a retired 25year member of Canadian law enforcement. Deeley HarleyDavidson® Canada supplies new Police Road King® motorcycles at the beginning of each riding season. These motorcycles take a real physical beating by the officers participating in the training sessions. This alone represents a significant financial commitment by Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada, hog® magazine canada

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and symbolizes their genuine commitment to improving police motorcycle safety. Having introduced a police motorcycle to the Woodstock Police Service (WPS) fleet in 2010, I require any officer who wants to be deployed on a police motorcycle to first qualify for that opportunity through the successful completion of this course. On occasion, I also ride a Harley® motorcycle, therefore I feel an obligation to properly qualify, just as I would expect any of our frontline officers to do. Personally, I have been a recreational motorcycle rider for over 40 years, and I currently own two HarleyDavidson® motorcycles of my own — a classic 1988 Electra Glide® Sport motorcycle, and an Anniversary Edition 2003 Road King® motorcycle. I naively believed my long history of safe recreational riding would give me an advantage in completing the Police Motorcycle Officers Training Course. Let’s just say that the first day of the course was a truly humbling experience! The difference between a recreational motorcycle rider and a skilled police motorcycle operator is immense! Interestingly, there is virtually no classroom work involved in this course, with 99.9% of the training literally “in the saddle”; rain or shine, the members of our session experienced it all. PMT-1107 consisted of eight officers representing the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Durham Regional Police, Sault Ste. Marie Police, Hamilton Police, Chatham-Kent Police, and my own Woodstock Police Service. On the first morning, the very first exercise involved the proper and effective manner in which to pick up a 38

fallen motorcycle – more on this specific topic later. The tarmac instruction included practical exercises designed to simulate safely avoiding debris scattered on the roadway while approaching a scene at high speeds, traffic stops, officer safety tactical techniques, defensive driving techniques, high-speed emergency braking, and executing extremely tight u-turns within a 5.5 metre (18 foot) radius to both the left and right. Also, skillfully manoeuvring a 351.54 kg (775 pounds), 1690 cc (103 cubic inch engine displacement) Harley-Davidson® Police motorcycle within a very narrow 4-point intersection bordered

by orange pylons proved incredibly challenging. The pylons simulated pedestrians, and they seemed magnetic in their ability to draw the Harley® motorcycle into them. All the while, Stan Hazen and other instructors would loudly, patiently, and repeatedly encourage students to give “more throttle” (hear the “potato, potato, potato”), work the clutch within the “grey area”, touch the brake at certain key points, lean slightly forward, and “look up, look up, look up!” As mentioned earlier, the very first lesson given was on how to pick up the motorcycle if it was dropped on its side.

This was an invaluable part of the instruction given the fact that most members dropped their Harley® motorcycles up to ten or more times per day while trying to accomplish the slow speed manoeuvres. This also contributed to a genuine teambuilding exercise, as we quickly learned to support each other in uprighting the bikes because, as the day wore on, they became heavier and heavier as we each repeatedly dropped the bikes time and time again. Daily instruction began at 07:15 a.m. with a motorcycle inspection (oil check, tire pressures, seat and suspension pressures), then on to the tarmac instruction. The

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instructors had the intuition to know when student frustrations were building to the point that a “road trip” was required to clear the mind and alleviate those frustrations. A blast of the instructors motorcycle siren would indicate a road trip adventure was about to begin — rain or shine. Members would don the appropriate riding gear and we would set off in proper formation. Road trips would begin with the ten of us in single-line formation, leaving the grounds of the Ontario Police College. This exercise took us over all sorts of terrain at varying speeds; rain soaked grass; grassy, wet, steep hills; loose gravel; routine pavement; dirt roads; and of course, Highway No. 401. Our practical exercises included a fast 100 kilometre per hour ride in staggered formation, and also included slower city driving, side-by-side, through St. Thomas (which was a particular thrill for me, having served there between 1982 and 1993).

The instructors would integrate various skill testing manoeuvres during the road trips, such as tight u-turns on steep hills and narrow roadways, or u-turns on a very narrow country bridge simulating an emergency response situation. Over the two-week period of the training, our session logged approximately 800 miles on road trips riding in heavy rain, in daylight, and at night. All environments and conditions contributed to the development of our professional riding skills. Most days ended at 4:30 p.m. Other than a one hour lunch break, all the training was conducted right on the Harley® motorcycle! Finally, it was game day — the final testing. Tensions were very high, as we knew the standards that we needed to meet were also very high. All the training, encouragement, and advice given over the previous two weeks came together. It is clearly an understatement to say that

the final testing was merely challenging. The entire Police Motorcycle Operators Training Course was the most physically and mentally demanding police training course that I have experienced in almost 34-years of policing, despite my many years of recreational motorcycle riding. Having met the challenge, my motorcycle skills have now improved exponentially from where they previously were. Graduation day was a proud occasion for all! The instructors had designed a graduation ceremony that included a brief practical demonstration of the skills that we had developed, as well as the formal presentation of graduation certificates by the Ontario Police College’s Assistant Director, Bill Stephens, Deputy Director, Jon Schmidt, and Deeley HarleyDavison® Canada Fleet Sales Manager, Pat Kealey, who also presented each graduate with a unique Harley Davidson® challenge coin.

Respectfully, my advice to every Chief of Police who currently deploys officers on motorcycle patrol is to enroll your members in this valuable training program. They will only stand to benefit from the experience through the development of skills that are unique to police motorcycle operation. That skill development will enable them to ride safely and to serve your citizens much more effectively in an enforcement capacity. To those who have not yet included Harley-Davidson® motorcycles in your fleet, consider adding another tool to the community safety toolbox! The advantages of adding a motorcycle patrol to your police service and community traffic safety programs are tenfold! Rod Freeman has been a member of the OACP since 1993. Chief Freeman serves as the Chief of the Woodstock Police Service, and can be reached by email at RFreeman@woodstockpolice.ca. hog® magazine canada

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OLD HABITS DIE HARD. SO WE GAVE IT A LIFETIME WARRANTY.

FXRG® Performance Riding Gear. Some of us ride like we live: Extreme. It was HARLEYCANADA.COM true 100 years ago, and it’s still true now. So you need gear that’s ready to go as far as you can take it. Like going so far as to say this could be the last jacket you’ll ever need to buy. How’s that for extreme?

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COLD

RAIN

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LIFETIME

NO LIMITS. NO CAGES. 12-02-08 5:57 PM

ke r

BACK SHOP/

MARCH 2012

PIT STOP

Putting a stop to it The art of custom wheels Let’s get ready to rumble New bikes

RALLY RIDES Important upcoming events and dates

ENTHUSIASTS Pink my Ride Hardcore H.O.G.® Member Russ Spooner

RIDING STORIES There’s no place like family Foursquare criss-cross

EXHAUST

Bugs on my windshield

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BACK SHOP / MARCH 2012 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • ENTHUSIASTS • RIDING STORIES • EXHAUST

PUTTING A STOP TO IT Real-world stopping strategies to keep you going strong By Becky Tillman

Learning to ride a motorcycle opens up a whole new world of freedom and adventure. And learning to stop one properly — in both routine and emergency situations — is an absolutely essential part of that freedom. In a previous issue of HOG® Magazine Canada we covered “panic stops”. Here we’ll take a broader view of stopping strategies and techniques, including a few special situations. Let’s start with a brief review of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) “SEE” strategy. Search: Actively scan the area ahead of you (up to 12 seconds ahead) for potential hazards and developing situations. Evaluate: Gather information and anticipate problems. Predict what may go wrong and prepare yourself to react. Execute: When a situation requires you to react, adjust your speed, adjust your position, and communicate your intentions (when possible). Staying on top of this strategy can help you turn a potential “emergency” stopping situation into a routine one. (As your Owner’s Manual reminds you, you should be doing a pre-ride inspection before each ride. As part of your pre-ride bike inspection, check that your brake light comes on when you apply either the front or rear brake.)

up. This is not a substitute for proper braking, but instead gives you a larger margin of error in an emergency.

BRAKING SYSTEMS To stop most effectively in any situation, it’s important to understand your motorcycle’s braking system. While some motorcycles feature linked or integrated braking systems — in which both the front and rear brakes are controlled, to varying degrees, by either the rear brake pedal or the front brake lever — Harley-Davidson® motorcycles feature either

a standard system or Antilock Braking System (ABS). Standard means the front brake is controlled by a lever on the right hand grip, while the rear is controlled by a foot pedal near the right foot peg or floorboard. With ABS, available on some Harley-Davidson® models as a Factory-installed option, this is still true, but these brakes add sophisticated electronics to prevent the wheels from locking

HARD BRAKING AND SKIDS To achieve maximum braking in most situations, simultaneously squeeze the front brake lever and apply the rear brake pedal as you keep your body centered. Keep your eyes up, looking ahead not down; this will help you keep the motorcycle in a straight line. Don’t be afraid to use the front brake. Remember: about two-thirds of your stopping power comes from the front. Just be sure to apply it smoothly and steadily to avoid locking up the front wheel. In fact, rear-wheel skids are more common during hard braking situations than front wheel skids. If your rear wheel locks up, the first thing is don’t panic! Still, you’ll need to think quickly. The proper reaction depends on whether your front and rear wheels remain in close alignment. If you feel the rear wheel start to “fishtail,” the best course of action is usually to ride it out. If you release the brake with the rear wheel sliding sideways, the tire can regain traction suddenly, causing the motorcycle to straighten suddenly and cause a dangerous “high side” crash. Instead, maintain pressure on the brake while doing your

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TO STOP MOST EFFECTIVELY IN ANY SITUATION, IT'S IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND YOUR MOTORCYCLE'S BRAKING SYSTEM.

best to keep the motorcycle moving in a straight line. Relax your body — avoid taking a vice grip on the handlebar — while keeping your head up and your eyes forward. When the motorcycle comes to a complete stop, breathe a well-deserved sigh of relief — and don’t forget to put your foot down! In the event of a front wheel skid, immediately release the front brake — then immediately reapply it with firm, steady, progressive pressure until the motorcycle comes to a complete stop. STOPPING IN A CURVE The safest way to stop is with the motorcycle traveling in a straight line. But if you find yourself in a situation where you must stop in a curve, there are two ways to approach it. If your speed and road and traffic conditions permit, straighten the motorcycle and square the handlebar (center the steering) before applying the brakes and stopping the motorcycle in a straight line. If conditions don’t allow you to straighten the motorcycle as such (ie: there’s a risk of running off the road in a left-

hand curve, or oncoming traffic to deal with in a right-hand curve), a different technique is called for. As you continue to steer through the curve, apply the brakes smoothly and gradually. Apply greater brake pressure as the motorcycle slows and the lean angle is reduced. To the best of your ability, straighten the motorcycle just before coming to a complete stop. Somewhat related to these situations is “swerving”: two quick, consecutive turns (countersteers) to avoid an obstacle. It can be tempting in an emergency situation to want to swerve and brake simultaneously — DON’T! Swerving uses up a lot of traction, and applying the brakes while swerving can easily cause a skid or a crash.

SPECIAL SITUATIONS

PASSENGERS Remember that the weight of a passenger will affect your stopping distance and also the weight distribution — which, in turn, can affect how the front and rear brakes perform. In the event of an unexpected or emergency stop, let your

passenger know what’s happening so you can brace for the forward momentum. SLICK ROAD SURFACES Use the SEE strategy to scout potentially hazardous road surfaces that may affect your braking ability. Worn pavement, loose surfaces or debris, crack sealant, tar strips (tar “snakes”), and, of course, ice, snow, mud, moss, and leaves can seriously compromise your ability to brake effectively. Adjust your speed, if necessary, and be prepared to take longer than normal to stop. FOOTING At an intersection, be aware that there may be oil on the road where cars stop frequently. Especially if it’s raining, this can cause a dangerous situation when you put your foot down. Keep your motorcycle as vertical as possible, and don’t assume the sole of your boot will have its normal amount of traction. USE YOUR MIRRORS Your motorcycle can most likely stop much faster than the car or truck behind you. Stay aware of who’s following you, and how

closely. In the event of a sudden stop, check your mirrors and don’t stop more quickly than you need to if someone is close behind. If there’s a collision, they will likely get the ticket, but you will suffer the bulk of the consequences. Stopping. It’s not as fun as going, but when you find yourself in a high-risk situation, the ability to do it quickly and safely may just save your life. Pat Kealey, Fleet Sales Manager for Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada and Program Manager for Motor Officer Training at OPC, welcomes your riding questions. Send an e-mail along with your name, hometown and motorcycle model to: editor@hogcanada.ca Becky Tillman is MSF RiderCoach Trainer, Rider’s Edge® Instructor, and Rider’s Edge® Regional Manager, Harley-Davidson® Rider Services. Sources: Harley-Davidson® Rider’s Edge® and The Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Guide to Motorcycling Excellence.

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BACK SHOP / MARCH 2012 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • ENTHUSIASTS • RIDING STORIES • EXHAUST

THE ART OF CUSTOM WHEELS The next time your HarleyDavidson® motorcycle is parked and ready for viewing, take a long look at its side profile. Then add up how much visual real estate is attributed to the wheels. You might be surprised. The answer: nearly one-half. This is one reason why custom wheels (and matching brake rotors and sprockets) are a popular addition to many motorcycles. The expertise of HarleyDavidson Motor Company in designing and manufacturing solid aluminium wheels stretches back decades, and is unmatched in quality and variety. With all-new styles introduced in early June, the company offers two dozen different custom wheel designs, plus a dazzling

FORGED BILLET AND CAST Two types of solid wheels are available through GMA. Forged aluminium billet and cast aluminium — each with inherent differences that are worth considering for anyone looking at upgrading. One-piece GMA forged billet wheels start life as a billet 6061-T6 aluminium alloy puck that’s heated to a soft, plastic-like consistency, then squeezed into a hardened die under massive pressure. The forging process alters the grain structure of the aluminium

to align with the wheel shape and increases the density of the molecules, producing a nonporous surface that makes chrome like no other. After forging, the wheel goes through a heat-treating process. Each step in the forging and treatment process is optimized to produce wheels with significantly stronger tensile and yield strength than aftermarket wheels that are created simply by machining a billet aluminium rod. Likewise, the GMA forged wheels are machined, polished, and plated or painted to a near-perfect surface finish. The detailed forging process and extra finishing steps make GMA wheels the premium option for Customers who want

the best wheel at a great price. One-piece cast GMA wheels are created by pouring molten aluminium into a permanent mould, then carefully controlling the cooling of specific areas to enable the liquid alloy to harden at a specified rate. This is followed by a unique heattreating process to maximize strength and durability, thus producing the highest-quality casting possible. The Company’s proprietary casting process produces a wheel surface that’s ideal for machining and polishing, and that accepts both chrome and painted finishes. The biggest difference between cast and forged wheels is the price. Retail pricing of GMA cast wheels ranges. Such value pricing is possible only

Blade in chrome

Blade in Cut Back Gloss Black

Vapour in chrome

Roulette in Black Ice

Chisel in chrome

Agitator in Black Ice

Typhoon in Cut Back Gloss Black

array of surface finishes. Forged, cast, or laced — the wheel options available from Genuine Motor Accessories (GMA) prove that not all custom wheels are created equal.

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TEXTURES AND FEATURES It is not just the shape, quality, and durability that highlight many GMA wheel options. Six trend-setting surface finishes and textures add a dramatic visual depth that satisfies any taste for customization.

because of the investment by the Company in the highestquality production moulds. Premium-quality production is one difference between GMA wheels and the aftermarket wheels. Certified fit, quality, and durability are other key differences. DESIGNED, TESTED, AND CERTIFIED When the Motor Company designs an accessory wheel, it knows every specification — from thread bores to bearing surfaces, hub widths to brakedisc mount locations (plus dozens of others). This is why only GMA wheels can be built to the highest exacting standards that meet every critical specification. Conversely, aftermarket companies do not have access to the size specifications of an individual part, so they are stuck having to reverseengineer their wheels by measuring the HarleyDavidson® versions, then hoping their manufacturing process can get “close enough” with the fitment. If original parts are measured incorrectly, or at

the outer limit of tolerance, then the aftermarket wheel has the strong potential for improper fitment. Furthermore, when Harley-Davidson makes changes and improvements to components like the swingarms, forks, and bearings of a specific model, it takes months before the aftermarket realizes the changes and reacts to it. Design knowledge is just the beginning. Once HarleyDavidson has designed a wheel, it completes an exhaustive testing regimen — both simulated and real road testing in varied conditions — to confirm that its quality and ride characteristics meet the high standards of the Company. It is another crucial step in the process that further separates GMA wheels from the aftermarket options. It is why you can fully trust HarleyDavidson® offerings, and why some custom options are not available through GMA. For example: there is an aftermarket trend toward oversized (diameter) front wheels on Harley-Davidson® Touring models. While these 20and 21-inch oversized wheels might look great on a show

custom, the testing by HarleyDavidson on such examples has resulted in unsatisfactory ride and handling characteristics. As such, the Company offers larger-than-stock, 18- and 19-inch GMA wheels, but nothing larger. In addition to the highest quality design and testing methods, every available GMA wheel is stamped with two critical markings: “DOT” and “JWL”. An abbreviation of Department of Transportation, DOT is a U.S. standard that confirms that the wheel is dimensionally accurate for the motorcycle tires specified for it. Likewise, JWL is short for Japan Light Wheel Alloy, a standard certifying that the wheel complies with strength and durability tests, air tightness, dimensional accuracy, and informational marking/identification. Together, DOT and JWL indicate (in no uncertain terms) that GMA wheels are certified and trustworthy. You can see the latest GMA wheels and learn more about their superior design and construction by visiting your local Harley-Davidson® Retailer.

The newest surface finish is called Black Ice, which appears similar to black chrome with a deep, highly reflective surface that complements the Dark Custom style. It is unique to the motorcycle industry and only available through Harley-Davidson.

Cut Back Gloss Black is another new-for-2011 treatment, in which tough Gloss Black powder-coat painted surfaces are strategically machined to create aluminium highlights. Additional surface treatments include Textured Black (satin aluminium spokes that contrast with textured black powder paint); Textured Chrome (chrome-plated spokes with textured chrome contrast); Mirror Chrome (a proprietary polishing technique that results in an extra-smooth surface for near-perfect chroming); and Contrast Chrome (another proprietary technique, for an application of chrome and Gloss Black powder-coat paint).

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A n e v en t

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Vision Harley-Davidson ® Calgary Harley-Davidson ® Eldridge’s Jacox Harley-Davidson ® Prairie Harley-Davidson ® Gasoline Alley Harley-Davidson ® Fox Harley-Davidson ® /Buell ™ Harley-Davidson ® of Edmonton Harley- Davidson ® Montreal Barnes Harley-Davidson ® Buell ™ Harley-Davidson ® of Prince George Kane’s Harley-Davidson ® Calgary Harley-Davidson ® Laval/Laval Buell ™ Prémont Beauce Harley-Davidson ® (Shop) Thunder Bay Harley-Davidson ® Kitchener Harley-Davidson ® Rocky’s Harley-Davidson ® Goulet Motosports Atelier de Mécanique Prémont Shawinigan Harley-Davidson ® Steve Drane Harley-Davidson ® Mountainview Harley-Davidson ® Kamloops Harley-Davidson ® Harley-Davidson ® Montreal Harley-Davidson ® Rimouski MotoSport Plus Redline Harley-Davidson ® Privateers Harley-Davidson ® Sport Boutin Clare’s Harley-Davidson ® of Niagara Davies Harley-Davidson ® Lethbridge Harley-Davidson ® Eldridge’s Freedom Harley-Davidson ® of Ottawa Trev Deeley Motorcycles Mackie Harley-Davidson ® Harley-Davidson ® Grande Prairie Barrie Harley-Davidson ® Harley-Davidson ® of Prince George Heritage Harley-Davidson ® Longley Harley-Davidson ® of Peterborough Thunder Road Harley-Davidson ® Harley-Davidson ® of Medicine Hat Kane’s Harley-Davidson ® Becancour Harley-Davidson ® Carrier Harley-Davidson ® Motosports G.P. Trails End Harley-Davidson ®

Repentigny, Quebec Calgary, Alberta Saint John, New Brunswick Mississauga, Ontario Regina, Saskatchewan Red Deer County, Alberta Owen Sound, Ontario Edmonton, Alberta Montreal, Quebec Langley, British Columbia Prince George, British Columbia Calgary, Alberta Laval, Quebec Notre-Dame-des-Pins, Quebec Thunder Bay, Ontario Kitchener, Ontario London, Ontario Hawkesbury, Ontario City of Quebec, Quebec Shawinigan, Quebec Victoria, British Columbia Chilliwack, British Columbia Kamloops, British Columbia Montreal, Quebec Rimouski, Quebec Kingston, Ontario Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Halifax, Nova Scotia Valleyfield, Quebec Niagara on the Lake, Ontario Richmond Hill, Ontario Lethbridge, Alberta Saint John, New Brunswick Ottawa, Ontario Vancouver, British Columbia Oshawa, Ontario Grande Prairie, Alberta Barrie, Ontario Prince George, British Columbia Edmonton, Alberta Peterborough, Ontario Windsor, Ontario Dunmore, Alberta Kelowna, British Columbia Ville de Becancour, Quebec Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec Victoriaville, Quebec Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

February 14, 2012 February 23, 2012 March 3, 2012 March 7, 2012 March 8, 2012 March 8, 2012 March 8, 2012 March 9, 2012 March 10, 2012 March 11, 2012 March 11, 2012 March 14, 2012 March 14, 2012 March 14, 2012 March 14, 2012 March 14, 2012 March 14, 2012 March 15, 2012 March 15, 2012 March 15, 2012 March 15, 2012 March 16, 2012 March 16, 2012 March 17, 2012 March 17, 2012 March 20, 2012 March 21, 2012 March 21, 2012 March 21, 2012 March 21, 2012 March 21, 2012 March 22, 2012 March 22, 2012 March 22, 2012 March 22, 2012 March 23, 2012 March 24, 2012 March 25, 2012 March 25, 2012 March 27, 2012 March 28, 2012 March 28, 2012 March 29, 2012 March 30, 2012 April 21, 2012 April 26, 2012 May 16, 2012 May 18, 2012

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0:10 AM

BACK SHOP / MARCH 2012 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • ENTHUSIASTS • RIDING STORIES • EXHAUST

LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!

Suggestions for shaking off the winter blues and readying yourself and your ride for the open road. By John White, National Service Manager By the time you read this article the snow should be pretty much gone, and your thoughts will be centred on motorcycle riding and going to rallies to have some fun! Hopefully, you did your due diligence and had your motorcycles prepped for winter ... right? Good, so you should be ready to rumble.

AS ALWAYS, RIDE DEFENSIVELY AND REMEMBER THAT DRIVERS HAVE GOTTEN USED TO NOT SHARING THE ROADS WITH THEIR TWO-WHEELED FRIENDS … Here is a small checklist of items you may want to review, prior to heading out: Check your tire pressure (refer to the Owner’s Manual for the correct pressures) and the operation of your lights and brakes, etc. If you suspect that something is not correct, contact your Servicing Retailer. Be mindful of sand or salt that may have accumulated on the roads and not washed away in the spring, especially in the corners and intersections. This layer is very slippery under your tires. As always, ride defensively, and remember that drivers have gotten used to not sharing the roads with their two-wheeled friends for a few months now.

If you feel a little rusty in your riding skills, take a “brush up” class; they are available at most community colleges. Keep yourself hydrated while riding; the Harley-Davidson Motor Company offers water bottles with holders for various models. Ensure that you are wearing a legal and safe helmet while riding; if you are unsure, stop by your Servicing Retailer and talk to the MotorClothes® merchandise staff. It would be in your best interest to have proper eye protection and gloves; again, your MotorClothes® merchandise staff can assist you with more information.

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Join us for our first ever Canadian National Riding Rally set up as a “Hub & Spoke” event, with Moncton acting as the host “hub” and the “spokes” branching out to various local Harley-Davidson® Retail stores around the Maritimes. The event will span four days from August 8 to 11, 2012 with the focus

predominately on great riding experiences with ample local flavour. Be prepared to spend most of your time on the road exploring the Atlantic Region, which is well known for its unique accents, the origin of the Acadian culture, and outstanding natural beauty.

FEES:

EARLY BIRD DEADLINE: March 31, 2012

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION RATE (until March 31, 2012) Adult (16+) $100 CDN Children (10-15) $60 CDN

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION OFFERS: Guaranteed rally package on-site† Reduced exclusive pricing – only $100 Chance to win the early bird prize

PRE-REGISTRATION RATE (April 1 - June 30, 2012)

PRE-REGISTRATION ENDS: Postmarked by June 30, 2012 (Pre-registrations between April 1 - June 30 are not guaranteed rally packages and are given on-site on a first come, first served basis.)

HOW TO REGISTER: 1) Call H.O.G.® Canada at 1-800-668-4836 today! 2) Online at members.hog.com †

Rally packages are only available for on-site pick-up.

EARLY BIRD

PRIZE 48

hog® magazine canada

Please note: rally packages not guaranteed during this time.

Adult (16+) Children (10-15)

$125 CDN $75 CDN

ON-SITE REGISTRATION RATE (August 8-11, 2012) Adult (16+) $140 CDN Children (10-15) $90 CDN Children (under 10) FREE! They need to register, but they will not receive a rally package.

INCLUDES:

• $100 Harley-Davidson® gift card • 1 standard room for a 3-night stay at Delta Beausejour during the rally

• Free rally registration for you and a guest • 2 free motorcycle oil changes at Toys for Big Boys • 1 special rally souvenir package

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Registration Form Registration Form th 17 Canadian National Registration FormH.O.G.®® Rally th

Fees Fees GROUP Fees GROUP

GROUP Adult (16+) Adult (16+) Children (10-15) Adult (16+) Children (10-15) Children (under (10-15) 10) Children (under 10) Children (under 10)

Attendees Attendees Attendees Name #1:

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION PRE-REGISTRATION ON-SITE (until March 31, 2012) RATE (April 1 - June 30, 2012) (August 8-11, 2012) EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION PRE-REGISTRATION ON-SITE (until March 31, 2012) RATE (April 1 - June 30, 2012) (August 8-11, 2012) $100 CDN $125 CDN $140 CDN2012) (until March 31, 2012) (April 1 - June 30, 2012) (August 8-11, $100 CDN $125 CDN $140 CDN $60 CDN $75 CDN $90 CDN $100 CDN $125 CDN $140 CDN $60 CDN $75 CDN $90 CDN FREE! They need to register, but they will$75 notCDN receive a rally package. $60 CDN $90 CDN FREE! They need to register, but they will not receive a rally package. FREE! They need to register, but they will not receive a rally package.

National Rally Ad Form

Name #2: Name #1: Name #2: ® ® H.O.G. #: H.O.G. #: Name #1: Name #2: ® H.O.G. #: H.O.G.® #: Phone®#:#: Phone®#:#: H.O.G. H.O.G. Phone #: Phone #: E-mail: Email: Phone #: Phone #: E-mail: Email: T-Shirt Size: T-Shirt E-mail: Email: Size: T-ShirtSM Size: T-ShirtSM Size: Men: MD LG XL 2X 3X Women: SM MD LG XL 2X (circle one) Men: MD LG XL 2X 3X Women: SM MD LG XL 2X (circle one) T-ShirtSM Size: T-ShirtSM Size: Men: MD LG XL 2X 3X Women: SM MD LG XL 2X (circle one) Men: MD LG XL 2X 3X Women: SM MD LG XL 2X (circle one) Men: SM MD LG XL 2X 3X April Women: SM MD LG not XL guaranteed 2X (circle one)rally packages Men: SMand MDare LGgiven XL 2Xon-site 3X Women: MD first LG XL 2X (circle one) Pre-Registrations between 1 - June 30 are on a firstSMcome, served basis.

with ost of gion, in of auty.

P HO T O

P IE S PH 17 Canadian H.O.G. Rally OC AC TE OP Moncton, NB, National August 8–11, 2012 CT OE PD th IE S PH ® 17 Canadian National H.O.G. Rally O A T C O CE P Moncton, NB, August 8–11, 2012 CT OE PD I A CCE P T E S How to Register: Moncton, NB, August 8–11, 2012 ED How toat Register: Early Bird Deadline: March 31, 2012 1) Online members.hog.com How toat Register: Early Bird Registration Deadline: March 31, 2012 1) Online members.hog.com Early Bird Offers: 2) Call H.O.G. ® Canada at 1-800-668-4836 Early Bird Deadline: † 31, 2012 1) Online at members.hog.com Early Bird Guaranteed rally Registration package, on-siteMarch onlyOffers: 2) Call H.O.G. ® Canada at 1-800-668-4836 3) Mail form to H.O.G.® Canada, † Reduced Guaranteed Early exclusive Bird rally Registration package, pricing -on-site only $100 onlyOffers: 2) Call ® Canada at 1-800-668-4836 3) 830 MailH.O.G. form to H.O.G.® Canada, Edgeley Boulevard, Concord, Ontario L4K 4X1 Chance Reduced Guaranteed toexclusive win rally thepackage, early pricing bird -on-site only prize$100 only † 3) 830 MailEdgeley form to Boulevard, H.O.G.® Canada, Concord, Ontario L4K 4X1 Reduced Chance toexclusive win the early pricing bird - only prize$100 4) Fax form to 905-660-3372 Pre-Registration 830 Edgeley Boulevard, Concord, Ontario L4K 4X1 Chance to win the early birdEnds: prize Postmarked by June 30, 2012 4) Fax form to 905-660-3372 Pre-Registration ® Ends: Postmarked by June 30, 2012 Must be active H.O.G. member (Life, Full or Associate) to register. 4) Fax form to 905-660-3372 Pre-Registration Ends:(Life, Postmarked by June 30, to 2012 Must be active H.O.G.® member Full or Associate) register. ® EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION RATE PRE-REGISTRATION ON-SITE Must be active H.O.G. member (Life, Full or Associate) to register.

Pre-Registrations between April 1 - June 30 are not guaranteed rally packages and are given on-site on a first come, first served basis. Pre-Registrations between April 1 - June 30 are not guaranteed rally packages and are given on-site on a first come, first served basis.

Payment Type Payment Type Visa MasterCard Payment Type Visa MasterCard Credit Visa Card #: MasterCard Credit Card #: Confirmations Credit Card #:

Cheque or Money Order Cheque or Money Order Cheque or Money Order

Total Amount: Total Amount: Total Amount: Expiry Date: Expiry Date: Expiry Date:

Confirmations E-mail confirmations of your registration will be sent out starting February 2012. If e-mail address is provided, confirmations will be sent via e-mail only. Confirmations E-mail confirmations of your registration Otherwise, will be sent by post mail. will be sent out starting February 2012. If e-mail address is provided, confirmations will be sent via e-mail only. E-mail confirmations of your registration Otherwise, will be sent by post mail. will be sent out starting February 2012. If e-mail address is provided, confirmations will be sent via e-mail only. Cancellation Otherwise, will be sentPolicy by post mail. Cancellation Policy and receive a full refund by notifying H.O.G.® Canada by March 31, 2012. No refunds will be issued after this date. You may cancel your pre-registration Cancellation Policy and receive a full refund by notifying H.O.G.® Canada by March 31, 2012. No refunds will be issued after this date. You may cancel your pre-registration You may cancel your pre-registration and receive a full refund by notifying H.O.G.® Canada by March 31, 2012. No refunds will be issued after this date.

Host Hotel - Delta Beausejour Host Hotel - Delta Beausejour 750 Main Street, Moncton, NB E1C 1E6 • 1-888-351-7666 • www.deltahotels.com Host Hotel - Delta Beausejour 750 Main Street, Moncton, NB E1C 1E6 • 1-888-351-7666 • www.deltahotels.com

Additional Accommodations* Available at: 750 Main Street, Moncton, NB E1C 1E6 • 1-888-351-7666 • www.deltahotels.comCampsites available at: Campsites available at: Additional Accommodations* Available Best Western Moncton Coastal Inn Champlain at: Ramada Plaza Crystal Camper’s City / RV Resort Stonehurst Golf Course Campsites available at: Additional Accommodations* Available Best Western Moncton Coastal Inn Champlain RamadaHotel Plaza Crystal 300, chemin Lewisville Road 502, rue Kennedy Street at: Palace

Best Western/ 1-888-887-8788 Moncton 300, chemin Lewisville Road 506-388-0888 300, chemin Lewisville Road 506-388-0888 / 1-888-887-8788 www.bestwesternatlantic.com 506-388-0888 / 1-888-887-8788 www.bestwesternatlantic.com Casino New/Nouveau www.bestwesternatlantic.com Casino New/Nouveau Brunswick

Casino New/Nouveau Brunswick 21, promenade Casino Drive Brunswick 21, promenade/Casino Drive 506-859-7770 1-877-859-7775 21, promenade Drive 506-859-7770 /Casino 1-877-859-7775 www.casinonb.ca 506-859-7770 / 1-877-859-7775 www.casinonb.ca Château Moncton www.casinonb.ca Château Moncton 100, rue Main Street Château Moncton 100, rue Main Street 506-870-4444 / 1-800-576-4040 100, rue Main Street 506-870-4444 / 1-800-576-4040 www.chateaumoncton.ca 506-870-4444 / 1-800-576-4040 www.chateaumoncton.ca www.chateaumoncton.ca

Coastal Inn Champlain 502, rue Kennedy Street 506-857-9686 / 1-800-561-3939 502, rue Kennedy Street 506-857-9686 / 1-800-561-3939 www.coastalinns.com 506-857-9686 / 1-800-561-3939 www.coastalinns.com Colonial Inns Limited www.coastalinns.com Colonial Inns Limited 42, rue Highfield Street Colonial Inns/ Limited 42, rue Highfield Street 506-382-3395 1-800-561-4667 42, rue Highfield/ 1-800-561-4667 Street 506-382-3395 www.colonialdowntown.ca 506-382-3395 / 1-800-561-4667 www.colonialdowntown.ca Crowne Plaza Moncton www.colonialdowntown.ca Crowne Plaza Moncton Downtown

Crowne PlazaStreet Moncton Downtown 1005, rue Main Downtown 1005, rue Main/Street 506-854-6340 1-866-854-4656 1005, rue Main/Street 506-854-6340 1-866-854-4656 www.cpmoncton.com 506-854-6340 / 1-866-854-4656 www.cpmoncton.com www.cpmoncton.com

Ramada Plaza Crystal Palace Hotel 499, rue Paul Street Palace Hotel 499, rue Paul Street 506-858-8584 / 1-800-561-7108 499, rue Paul Street 506-858-8584 / 1-800-561-7108 www.crystalpalacehotel.com 506-858-8584 / 1-800-561-7108 www.crystalpalacehotel.com Residence Inn by Marriott www.crystalpalacehotel.com Residence Inn by Marriott 600, rue Main Street Residence by Marriott 600, rue MainInn Street 506-854-7100 / 1-800-331-3131 600, rue Main Street 506-854-7100 / 1-800-331-3131 www.residenceinnmoncton.com 506-854-7100 / 1-800-331-3131 www.residenceinnmoncton.com Rodd Parkhouse Inn www.residenceinnmoncton.com Rodd Parkhouse 434, rue Main StreetInn Rodd Parkhouse Inn 434, rue Main Street 506-382-1664 / 1-800-565-7633 434, rue Main Street 506-382-1664 / 1-800-565-7633 www.roddparkhouse.com 506-382-1664 / 1-800-565-7633 www.roddparkhouse.com www.roddparkhouse.com

Camper’s City / RV Resort Heater Chevalier Camper’s CityQueensway / RV ResortDrive Heater Chevalier 138, promenade Heater Chevalier 138, promenade Queensway Drive 506-384-7867 / 1-877-512-7868 138, promenade/ 1-877-512-7868 Queensway Drive 506-384-7867 www.killamleisureliving.com 506-384-7867 / 1-877-512-7868 www.killamleisureliving.com Pine Ridge Campground www.killamleisureliving.com Pine Ridge126 Campground 4421, Route Pine Ridge Campground 4421, Route 126 Gallagher Ridge, NB E1G 3A1 4421, Route 126 NB E1G 3A1 Gallagher Ridge, 506-855-6938 Gallagher Ridge, NB E1G 3A1 506-855-6938 www.sn2000.nb.ca/comp/pine-ridge/ 506-855-6938 www.sn2000.nb.ca/comp/pine-ridge/ www.sn2000.nb.ca/comp/pine-ridge/

Stonehurst Golf Course & Trailer Park Stonehurst Golf Course & Trailer Park Nancy Ryder & Trailer Nancy Ryder 47915, rue Park Homestead Road Nancy 47915, Ryder rue Homestead Road 506-852-4162 47915, rue Homestead Road 506-852-4162 www.stonehurstcamping.ca 506-852-4162 www.stonehurstcamping.ca www.stonehurstcamping.ca

Additional accommodations are also available by visiting http://tourism.moncton.ca/Visitor_Info/Where_to_stay_.htm Additional accommodations are also available by visiting http://tourism.moncton.ca/Visitor_Info/Where_to_stay_.htm

*Shuttle bus service will not be available at all hotels listed. †Additional accommodations are also available by visiting http://tourism.moncton.ca/Visitor_Info/Where_to_stay_.htm Rally packages are only for on-site *Shuttle bus service will available not be available at allpick-up. hotels listed. † Rally packages are only for on-site *Shuttle bus service will available not be available at allpick-up. hotels listed. hog® magazine canada 49 † Rally packages are only available forand on-site pick-up. Harley Owners Group, H.O.G., Harley Harley-Davidson are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC. © 2012 H-D. Harley Owners Group, H.O.G., Harley and Harley-Davidson are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC. © 2012 H-D. Harley Owners Group, H.O.G., Harley and Harley-Davidson are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC. © 2012 H-D.

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2012 H.O.G.® RALLY DATES

H.O.G.® Canada announces the lineup for the 2012 H.O.G.® Regional, Provincial and National Rallies. 16th Quebec Provincial H.O.G.® Rally July 5 to 7, 2012, Repentigny, Quebec Contact: rallyeinfo2012@ visionharley.com www.rallyehogrepentigny2012.com

5th Prairie Regional H.O.G.® Rally July 12 to 14, 2012, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Contact: dave@bilanski.com www.prairieregionalrally.com

24th Ontario Provincial H.O.G.® Rally July 26 to 28, 2012, Windsor, Ontario Contact: cvalentino@ thunderroadharley.com www.ontariohogrally.com

17th Canadian National H.O.G.® Rally August 8 to 11, 2012, Moncton, NB Contact: hog@harleycanada.com * More details will be made available in Spring 2012

12th Western Regional www.members.hog.com H.O.G.® Rally July 19 to 21, 2012, Prince George, British Columbia Contact: rhonda@ harleydavidsonpg.bc.ca www.12thwesternregional hogrally.ca

H.O.G.® Members can pick up a free commemorative pin and chat with H.O.G.® Canada staff at selected motorcycle events. You must be a National H.O.G.® Member with a valid membership card and visit our pin distribution area during the stated hours for the event. PIN STOP DATES: PD 13 Port Dover April 13, 2012 PD 13 Port Dover July 13, 2012 Biker’s Reunion New Liskeard, Ontario June 28 to 30, 2012 Wharf Rat Rally Digby, Nova Scotia August 31 to Sept. 3, 2012

HARLEY-DAVIDSON® XR1200® CUP SERIES NATIONAL RACE PROGRAM: Round 1 June 22 to 24, 2012 Shannonville Motorsport Park Shannonville, Ont. Round 2 July 6 to 8, 2012 Autodrome St-Eustache, Que. Round 3 July 20 to 22, 2012 Atlantic Motorsports Park Shubenacadie, NS Round 4 August 10 to 12, 2012 Circuit Mont Tremblant Tremblant, Que. Round 5 & 6 August 24 to 26, 2012 Mosport International Raceway Bowmanville, Ont.

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2012 U.S. STATE H.O.G.® RALLIES Whether they’re around the corner or across the country, U.S. State H.O.G.® Rallies provide unique opportunities to enjoy new experiences as you travel the United States. TEXAS Fort Worth May 3–5

NEVADA Reno to Winnemuca June 13 –16

SOUTH DAKOTA Sioux Falls June 22–23

MAINE Greenville July 19–21

WISCONSIN Wausau August 16–18

MISSISSIPPI Southaven September 20–22

ALABAMA Pelham / Birmingham May 17–19

IOWA Des Moines June 14–16

WYOMING Laramie June 27–30

PENNSYLVANIA State College July 19–21

WASHINGTON Okanogan August 23– 25

NEW JERSEY Seaside Heights September 20–22

NEBRASKA Beatrice May 23–27

COLORADO Buena Vista June 14 –17

MINNESOTA Brainerd June 28–30

MONTANA Butte July 26–29

ARKANSAS Rogers August 24–26

MISSOURI Sedalia September 20–23

TENNESSEE Cookeville May 30–June 2

MARYLAND/ DELAWARE Deep Creek Lake, MD June 14–17

OHIO Dayton June 28–30

IDAHO Meridian to Lewiston August 9–11

NORTH CAROLINA Outer Banks September 27–29

UTAH Sandy to Vernal July 11–14

MASSACHUSETTS/ RHODE ISLAND Boxborough, MA August 9–11

INDIANA McCormick’s Creek State Park August 24–26

KANSAS Junction City May 31–June 2 ARIZONA Williams June 7–9 ILLINOIS Rosemont June 7–9 KENTUCKY Lexington June 7–9

ALASKA Palmer June 21–23 CONNECTICUT Bristol June 21–23 VIRGINIA Williamsburg June 21–23

WEST VIRGINIA Snowshoe July 11–14 NEW YORK Alexandria Bay July 12–14 NORTH DAKOTA Minot July 13–14

GEORGIA Hiawassee September 6–8

MICHIGAN Kalamazoo August 16–18

NEW MEXICO Albuquerque September 6–8

NEW HAMPSHIRE/ VERMONT Lincoln, NH August 16–18

CALIFORNIA Santa Maria to Sacramento September 11–15

OKLAHOMA Lawton October 11–13 HAWAII Kahului, Maui October 12–14 FLORIDA Howey-in-the-Hills October 31– November 3

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PINK MY RIDE

My journey with breast cancer and a Harley® motorcyle By Nadine Padur-Rose Sometimes when life throws a curveball, you find yourself exactly where you are supposed to be — on a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. I was diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in early February, 2011. A partial mastectomy was scheduled, along with a sentinel node biopsy. I woke up after surgery with the devastating news that the cancer had moved into my lymph nodes, which meant that I would have to endure five months of chemotherapy followed by four weeks of radiation. During my chemotherapy, my husband, Gary, would take me on some beautiful short rides on the back of his Road King® motorcycle through the Saanich Pennisula on Vancouver Island. I mused one day over lunch that once all my therapies were completed, that I would contemplate the idea of riding my own bike again. I hadn’t ridden for four years and I realized how much I had missed it. One day, Gary and I went to look at some bikes at Steve Drane Harley-Davidson®,

and when we walked into the showroom I looked at Gary and said under my breath, “there’s my bike”. What caught my eye was a 2011 Sportster® XL1200CP Custom motorcycle. With white pearl paint, pink flames, a custom painted Breast Cancer Pink ribbon on the tank, and lots of extra bling — it was the girlie bike of my dreams! Ten days after my final chemotherapy cycle, Gary and I went on a short road trip to Whistler, British Columbia. At the time, I struggled with walking, but riding was freedom — freedom from the doctors, the nurses, and the daily reminder of my diagnosis. I was looking forward to my daily radiation treatments primarily because they gave me a reason to ride. With the terrific fall weather in Victoria I managed to ride to the majority of my 20 radiation sessions. I was exactly where I was supposed to be — riding a pink Harley® motorcycle that symbolized my personal struggle and survivorship.

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THE POWER OF PINK

FPO

Harley-Davidson® in Canada believes in empowering women. Rethink Breast Cancer shares this belief and is dedicated to providing innovative education, research, and support programs. By sharing the Harley-Davidson® spirit and purchasing items from the Canadian Pink Label Collection, people across Canada can help breast cancer-affected women, with a portion of the proceeds from the sale of Pink Label items being donated to Rethink Breast Cancer.

New styles in store, Spring 2012!

To find out more about the Pink Label Collection in Canada, or to purchase items from the collection, visit your authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson® Retailer or visit www.harleycanada.com. To find out more about Rethink Breast Cancer, visit www.rethinkbreastcancer.com 54

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HARDCORE H.O.G.® MEMBER — RUSS SPOONER

By K. Palmer

IF YOU SEE HIM ON THE ROAD, WAVE, DON'T BLINK, CAUSE HE'LL BE GONE. If you’re looking for a hardcore H.O.G.® member, meet Russ Spooner. A long-time motorcycle rider, Spooner and his “Canadian” bike are known throughout Canada and the U.S.A. A “basket case” 1942 Harley® Model 45 motorcycle that he turned into an awardwinning chopper was the first of many Harley® motorcycles he would own. This bike took him to California and back in 1970, and was the catalyst of a career of long-distance riding. The whole “pack up the bike and campout along an abandoned road” plan was Spooner’s riding design. No road was untested; this was Spooner’s truth. In the late 60s Trev Deeley started the “No. 1 Club”. Spooner was member No. 256. He received his first 100,000 mile pin before H.O.G.® International

existed. It was after attending the 85th Anniversary of HarleyDavidson Motor Company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1988 that Spooner saw the potential of H.O.G.® He considers that run to have directly led to everything else that has happened over the last 23 years. He and a group of existing members founded the Kamloops Chapter with Al Perrett, owner of Kamloops Harley-Davidson®. Russ was one of the original members of the BC Coalition of Motorcycles and AIM (Aid for Injured Motorcyclists). Spooner was the first director of the Kamloops Chapter; he held the position for five years. He helped organize the “Kamloops Chapter Poker Run and bike Raffle” for Muscular Dystrophy, which has been No. 1 for 22 years in Canada, for funds raised

as a result of a single event. Spooner is still very active in the Kamloops Chapter, organizing group activities including mini pokers runs, group rides, and social events, and assisting with the parade for the 16th Canadian National H.O.G.® Rally in Kamloops last August. It was the “mystique” of the Harley® motorcycle that attracted him back in the late 60s. Since then, it has been the attitude and personality of the people who ride Harley® motorcycles. He recalls the days when the general public voiced their negative opinions of riders, something to do with the length of their hair and the ink on their arms. Fortunately today, that stereotype has positively shifted because more and more people are seizing the love of Harley® motorcycle riding.

Russ has been fortunate over the last 40 years to have travelled by bike across every province in Canada and every state in the U.S. numerous times. He considers Sturgis, South Dakota, a favourite destination, as he has traveled there 19 times. “You really know what riding is all about when you experience the sun come up in Norfolk Virginia, and five days later, witness the sun set in San Francisco, California.” In 1988 he bought a new Heritage Softail™ motorcycle, which he rode for 20 years, until it “got killed in an accident” after logging 348,000 miles. A 2009 Electric Glide® motorcycle with, of course, the custom Canadian-inspired paint is now his 12th Harley® motorcycle. When asked which has been his favourite bike, he replied, “ask me in another 20 years”. The “Canadian” bike has represented the Chapter in the media for charity events and promotions. Spooner is an extreme but not radical rider. He emphasizes the importance of safe riding to his fellow riders. “We all pick our spots to play”, referring to wide open roads with long curves, and not in-city traffic. He is always aware of his surroundings, weather, road conditions, and what he and his bike can do. His advice to new riders would be to know your limitations and comfort zones. Any road is a good route for Spooner. He doesn’t over plan his travels, but will always ride to the last sunset. With over one million miles of riding, he still has an untamed curiosity for what is over the hill and around the next curve. The whole point of riding is the journey. If you see him on the road, wave, but don’t blink, cause he’ll be gone.

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RETRO SLIM IS IN ON CANADIAN ROADS Pare down a Harley-Davidson® Softail® motorcycle to its essential elements and you have the brand-new Softail® SlimTM motorcycle. From its narrow rear end to its trimmed front fender, there is simply less of the Softail® SlimTM motorcycle: fewer covers, a solo seat, smaller wheels and tires, and minimal chrome. Call it stripped. Call it old school. Call it lean and mean. What is left is the elemental Softail® model profile and iconic Harley-Davidson® style that recalls classic custom bobbers of the 1950s. “It’s time to once again make the engine the design focal point of a motorcycle,” says Senior Designer, Casey

Ketterhagen. “So we put a Softail® [motorcycle] on a diet to get the proportions back in check. Scale down the rear with a narrow tire and chopped fender and the heart of the bike, the motor, becomes the focus. We left a gap between the nose of the seat and tank so the rider can see the top of the motor. I like to be able to look down and see what’s moving me. I’d personally like to strip the bike down even further,” says Ketterhagen, “but this is as far as we can go on a production model. The SlimTM [motorcycle] is intended to be a direct interpretation of home-built customs of the 1940s and 50s, and we used

a number of components that evoke that era, beginning with a Hollywood handlebar.” The Hollywood bar, identified by its wide bend and cross brace, was originally an accessory for HarleyDavidson® models with a Springer® fork. The name may have been coined because owners of that era, who used the cross-brace to mount lights and bags, had “gone Hollywood” with excessive accessorization. For the SlimTM motorcycle, the cross-braced bar is finished in Gloss Black, with matching Gloss Black hand controls and a louvered headlight nacelle. Other period styling cues include a Gloss Black “cat’s eye” tank console with a retro

*Vehicle shown may vary visually by market and may differ from vehicles manufactured and delivered. See your Retailer for details.

speedometer face, half-moon rider footboards, a round air cleaner cover, and Gloss Black wheel rims and hubs. The cover of the solo seat is stitched in a tuck-and-roll pattern. “The seat really gives you the feeling of sitting in the bike, rather than on it,” says Ketterhagen. “The bars are nice and low, too, so when you’re riding you have an unobstructed view forward, which reinforces the idea that this is a very elemental motorcycle, a real back-to-basics ride.” A counter-balanced Twin Cam 103BTM engine is rigidmounted within the frame, creating a solid connection between rider and the machine. The Softail® chassis mimics the clean lines of a vintage hardtail frame, but uses rear suspension control, provided by coil-over shock absorbers that are mounted horizontally and out of sight within the frame rails. With the combination of a 23.8-inch seat height and rider footboards, the SlimTM motorcycle comfortably fits a wide range of riders and offers light side-stand lift-off. A pull-back riser from HarleyDavidson® Genuine Motor Accessories can be installed to move the handlebars back two inches without changing the control cables and lines. The Harley-Davidson® Softail® SlimTM motorcycle is available now at authorized Canadian HarleyDavidson® Retailers, and should you want to try out the new slim look, you can visit the events tab on www.harleycanada.com where you will find dates and locations for free test rides.

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THE 70s ARE BACK WITH A NEW, LEAN-LOOKING SPORTSTER® MOTORCYCLE The Harley-Davidson® Seventy-TwoTM motorcycle is a Dark Custom® metal flake dream machine, a Sportster® motorcycle on a trip back to the days when the cool kids rode Sting-Ray bikes and the big boys parked choppers in a row on the curb. Those motorcycles were long and lean; candy-apple colour and gleaming chrome shimmering in hazy summer sunlight. From its Hard Candy Big Red Flake paint and ape bars to its narrow whitewall tires, the Seventy-TwoTM model is a respectful nod to that era, and to the influence of the custom culture that still percolates today along Whittier Boulevard, the legendary cruising street in East Los Angeles, also known as Route 72. A new generation of custom

builder is tapping into that era and making a fresh statement, not just in California but in garages across the country, even around the world. “In creating the SeventyTwoTM [motorcycle], we were also inspired by the vibe of the early chopper era,” says Frank Savage, Harley-Davidson Manager of Industrial Design. “Those bikes were colourful and chromed, but also narrow and stripped down to the essentials. You look at period examples and they are almost as simple as a bicycle. It’s a custom style that’s very particular to America and that California scene.” Metal flake, an iconic design element of the 70s, appeared in everything from dune buggy gel coat to vinyl diner upholstery, and on custom motorcycles. Harley-Davidson Motor Company brings the sparkle back on the Seventy-TwoTM motorcycle with Hard Candy

Big Red Flake paint. This new finish is created by applying a black base coat, followed by a polyurethane system that carries hexagon-shaped flakes that are more than seven times the diameter of the metal flake that is used in typical production paint. Each flake is coated with a thin aluminium film and then tinted red. Four applications of clear coat, combined with handsanding, create a smooth finish over the flakes. “The final touch to the Hard Candy Big Red Flake paint is a logo on the tank top and pinstripe scallop details on both

fenders,” says Savage. “Each was originally created by hand, and we recreated that art in a decal for production, so they still have the appearance of hand-applied graphics in that they are not exactly perfect. The graphics are then covered with a final clear-coat application.” The powertrain is finished in grey powdercoat with chrome covers and a new round air cleaner with a dished cover. A classic Sportster® 2.2-gallon “peanut” fuel tank adds a final period touch to the motorcycle. The new Harley-Davidson® Seventy-TwoTM motorcycle is now available in Canada through the network of authorized Canadian HarleyDavidson® Retailers. For information on free test rides, visit the events tab on www.harleycanada.com.

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and a custom bike giveaway. Tons of bikers from across North America were to attend. It sounded like just the kind of fun biker adventure we were looking for. A few days before we were due to leave, my Dad called me with the sound of disappointment in his voice. He informed me that the Rally had been cancelled by the mayor of Soap Lake. That darn mayor, didn’t he know that his tiny little town was supposed to be the scene for an amazing fatherdaughter motorcycle adventure? But we were going to do this trip, come hell or high water.

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE FAMILY

Father and daughter strengthen bond, while sharing the road … and a Harley® motorcycle By Natasha Chudyk My father always told my sister and I that when we turned 16 he would take us anywhere we wanted to go on a motorcycle trip. Of course, when I finally did turn 16 I was way too cool to be seen anywhere with dear old Dad, not to mention on the back of his motorcycle, so I passed on the idea. A few years went by and my younger sister did take him up on the offer and toured with him on the back of his Harley-Davidson® Softail®

model across Western Canada and the Northern United States, stopping at a Stompin’ Tom Connors’ concert along the way. However, I remained much too cool. As we all know, with age comes wisdom, and almost a decade later, 25-year-old me finally realized how silly I was not to take him up on that trip, so I called up my pops to see if the offer was still valid, and that’s how our adventure began. First up was finding somewhere

to go that would be worthy of our epic summer riding journey. After a few weeks of deliberation, we decided on the Run to the Sun Rally, located in Soap Lake, Washington. Soap Lake is about 300 kms south from our home town of Summerland, British Columbia. The information we found for the Rally promised a biker rodeo, a sword-swallowing dominatrix, beer gardens, bike shows, concerts, MMA fights,

COOL CAT AND HOT RIDE We started our journey later than expected that day due to a flat tire, so as we waited for that to be fixed we took his other bike, waved goodbye to Mom in Summerland, and began riding through the South Okanagan in the afternoon heat. We crossed the Osoyoos border into Northern Washington. My Dad had arranged for us to meet up with one of his biker buddies, “Cool Cat”, who lived in the county. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect as we waited for him along the highway in an Indian casino parking lot. A tattooed biker roared towards us with an American flag waving on the front of his motorcycle. Immediately, I knew that I liked the guy as my Dad greeted him. Shortly after our brief parking lot meeting, Cool Cat, my Dad, and I revved up the engines and began riding further south through the sweet smelling apple orchards of Northern Washington. I noticed that Cool Cat had a pretty tough looking biker patch on the back of his vest. Intrigued, I asked

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my Dad what it was all about. He explained to me that Cool Cat was the founder of a local motorcycle club called The Samaritan Riders of Washington State: a group of passionate motorcycle riders who conduct fundraisers for disadvantaged children, promote motorcycle safety, and above all else exemplify good citizenship. When we rode up a little closer behind Cool Cat I realized that his tough looking biker vest actually was a symbol of a hand reaching down to help someone. As we roared along with our newfound motorcycle club, I spread my arms out and breathed in the whirring air on the back on my Dad’s hog. I started to understand what it was about riding that he loves so much. My reflective breath of fresh summer air was short lived as Cool Cat’s motorcycle starting smoking back in our direction. After he tried to push his bike along as far as he could to the next town we all ended up pulling over beside an apple

orchard about 5 kms outside of Brewster, Washington. We determined that perhaps gasoline was all his bike needed. My Dad and I hopped on his Harley® motorcycle to find the nearest gas station. We drove around the corner to a little gas station in Brewster that was hilariously called “Quick-E-Mart”. It turned out that the gas station attendants couldn’t find their jerry can, so my Dad and I put our heads together and thought of the next best thing that we could use to fill up with gasoline, water bottles. I sacrificed the remaining H20 from my bottle while my Dad dug through the Quick-E-Mart trashcan looking for bottles. The locals who were watching us from inside the store probably thought we were crazy. After all was said and done, Cool Cat’s bike was topped off with gasoline, and ready to continue on, he invited us back to his place for a drink. That’s where I met his wife, Mrs. Cool Cat, who showed me photos of

their wedding and told me about her gun collection. The charity work that they do with the Good Samaritan Motorcycle Club is truly inspiring. After playing with their adorable daughter on her swing-set, my Dad and I hit the road again towards Lake Chelan. KNIFE FIGHTING VIETNAM VET JOINS THE CREW My father had reserved us a suite at a bed and breakfast right across the street from another one of his biker buddies, whom I’d also never met. This was to be two new things for me; one, I had never stayed in a bed and breakfast before, and two, I had never met a Vietnam veteran. That’s right, my Dad’s biker buddy was a legitimate motorcycle-riding Vietnam vet, trained in knife fighting and reconnaissance missions, who parachuted into enemy territory. Was I impressed? Totally! Was I intimidated? Of course. As we made our way through the winding roads towards

Lake Chelan, I revelled in the cool mountain shadow while on the back of the bike. After an eventful first day of riding we rolled up to our bed and breakfast in Chelan and were welcomed by the caretaker: a sweet older lady who generously shared her collection of jelly beans with me. After explaining that, yes, we needed two beds, since we were in fact father and daughter (something we had to mention to almost anyone who gave a strange look to the fiftyfour year old man with a twentyfive year old blonde on the back of his Harley® motorcycle) we unloaded our saddle bags and went over to meet the vet and his wife for dinner at their place. His gentle demeanor surprised me, so did his serene garden with a koi pond and gigantic wind chimes overlooking beautiful Lake Chelan. Like I said, I have never met a Vietnam vet in person; the only one that I had ever seen before was Forrest Gump, so I guess the gentle demeanor

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The MMIC/COHV Open Road Powersport Insurance Program is Growing! ®

Motorcycle & Moped Industry Council (MMIC) and the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council (COHV) have announced that the Open Road® Powersport Insurance program is changing and growing to serve its riders better. The changes include an expanse and simplification of the program. The number of insurers, the number of ways to get quotes, and the number of vehicle types. When riders request a quote from the Open Road® Powersport Insurance program now, you won’t just be shopping with one insurer, you’ll be shopping a minimum of three. Since every insurer prefers certain types of riders, bikes, and regions, not all insurers will be able to quote in all regions or on all vehicle types. But, with more insurers Open Road® is more likely to find the best quote for you. Starting in 2012, you’ll be able to get quotes in a brand new place. In addition to online and telephone quotes, you’ll now be able to get quotes right at the dealership. When you buy that new bike, wouldn’t it be great to know what the insurance cost will be? Shop and compare insurance premiums to make sure your bike or ATV is not only right for you but for your wallet as well. At the launch of the new program, this opportunity may not be available at your local dealership yet. If it’s not, ask your dealer to inquire about the Open

Road Powersport Insurance program. And of course, you can always get quotes online at www.openroadprogram.com. Lastly, the Open Road® Powersport Insurance program is expanding to all vehicles. In addition to great coverage for motorcycles and ATVs, we’re expanding the program to include snowmobiles and personal watercraft. At the same time the Open Road program can take care of your home and auto too. We’ll be bringing the same great multiinsurer quotes to you at home or at the dealership throughout 2012. The Open Road® program continues to be endorsed by the MMIC and the COHV. It is believed to be one of the best insurance programs for power sport enthusiasts in Canada. Why? Because it’s been designed by riders specifically for riders! Coverage under the new program is available for policies starting on or after January 1, 2012. You’ll be able to get a quote on the Open Road website and in select dealerships starting in December. If you’re already an Open Road® rider and your policy expires after January 1, 2012, you will have to obtain a new quote from Open Road® Powersport Insurance to stay with the program. The MMIC and the COHV want every rider to relax and be able to ride with confidence knowing you’ve got the worryfree coverage you need at the right price. ®

Check it out at www.openroadprogram.com.

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MOTO VASION

Endorsed by MMIC & COHV. Distributed by Alternative Risk Services®

12-02-08 12:02 PM

BACK SHOP / MARCH 2012 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • ENTHUSIASTS • RIDING STORIES • EXHAUST

shouldn’t have come as such a surprise. We had a fun night in the vet’s bountiful backyard garden drinking whiskey and talking under the warm summer night sky. He gave me advice on how to fight off bears during my upcoming Alaskan camping trip. The next morning after a delicious breakfast, we got ready for day two of our journey. We were heading to Soap Lake.

those handlebars, cruising down the highway. Me and the old guys hit the highway out of Chelan on another picturesque sunny summer day. On our way out of town we passed the Apple Inn, The Apple Cup Cafe, past the apple fruit packers plant onto the No. 2 Highway. We rode through ancient volcanic rock fields, past rolling prairie

lot on the main road in town trying to figure out what to do next. We decided that lunch was in order so we found the grimiest looking biker bar in town and settled in for a greasy burger from a grouchy waitress. The bar was filled on a Saturday afternoon; full of lost Soap Lake Rally hopefuls deciding whether or not to stay in town for the night. I spent about $10

Businessman’s Club. At the bottom of a dark red carpeted staircase we paid our $5 fee to get through the door and receive our official member cards. The bar itself boasted low ceilings with not a window in sight. We grabbed a seat in carved-out log stools near the stage, as I admired the ambiance of the place and listened to the band play. After a few drinks we were

WE KEPT OUT BATHING SUITS ON UNDER OUR CLOTHES TO KEEP US COOL …

WASHINGTON’S AMAZING SIGHTS Waiting out front of the bed and breakfast to join us in this leg of the journey was the vet and his 6’ 4” tall buddy who reminded me of a slightly thinner Paul Sr. from American Choppers, thick mustache and all. I don’t think that I saw his eyes once since he wore his shades practically all day. He had the coolest old chopper, a 1948 Panhead model that had been in his possession since he was 16-years-old. I obviously had to get my picture taken on it and imagined how cool I would look clinging onto

like farm land and wound our way down hills and valleys. The vet even managed to spot a fox in the tall grass along the way. We pulled over at an abandoned gas station for a rest and watched as many other motorcyclists rode by. We continued riding on through Sun Lakes State Park. A faded billboard informed us that we had finally reached Soap Lake. There were a lot of confused bikers riding around town who hadn’t been informed about the mayor’s decision to cancel the Rally, so we all congregated in an abandoned

in the jukebox and played some Neil Young and Bob Seger, trying to lift everyone’s spirits and get them all in the mood for fun, despite the cancelled Rally. After lunch the vet and his buddy headed back home, and Soap Lake was left for my Dad and I to discover. ROAD-STYLE RETREAT ... AND ZZ TOP After dinner at Don’s Steakhouse, which was styled in about the same decor as our “healing retreat”, we followed the music to a little place across the street called the Soap Lake

ready to dance and boogied our way out onto the dance floor to some ZZ Top. We spotted a guy wearing a white T-shirt that said “Run To The Sun Rally 2011, Soap Lake WA” with a huge red stamp across it saying “CANCELLED BY THE MAYOR”. Ah-ha! So there were some Rally stragglers remaining in Soap Lake. I immediately asked the guy where he got the shirt and he pointed us in the direction of Zach, the Rally organizer. We followed him outside to Zach’s T-shirt shop, aka his truck from which he was selling the garments. He explained that the T-shirt sales were actually going towards fund-raising for the legal expenses that he had to cover as a consequence of the Rally having been cancelled. After purchasing our T-shirts to help fight the man, we went back down into the Businessman’s Club to continue rocking out to the blues music. We stayed until the place shut down, and we ended up befriending a couple of the band members after their set, who invited us back to their hotel for the after party. That’s right, we got invited to a party

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Tom ad

Experience the thrill of riding a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle first-hand through our demo-ride program. All you need is a motorcycle licence, riding gear and a passion for riding. We will take care of the rest. Visit www.harleycanada.com online to view the most current demo schedule, and the rules and regulations.

Let’s Ride!

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BACK SHOP / MARCH 2012 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • ENTHUSIASTS • RIDING STORIES • EXHAUST

e a l w s. back at the hotel with the band. In a log cabin style inn by the lake, decorated with Mexican antiques, we spent the night in the middle of a jam session, partying with the band until the sun came up. HOMEBOUND ... WITH MEMORIES AS A KEEPSAKE The sunlight came too soon, as we had to keep moving onto our next destination. As we waved good-bye to Soap Lake, I wondered where our journey would take us today. We rode on Highway 17, following beside Banks Lake, stopping a few times to hop off the bike and jump in the refreshing waters. My Dad taught me what he called “an old biker trick” we kept our bathing suits on under our clothes to keep us cool on the scorching summer day. Although I was still feeling the side effects of partying with the

band, the beauty of this place didn’t get wasted on me (no pun intended). We rode through the flat plateaued mountains alongside Steamboat Rock State Park, as we made our way to Grand Coulee City. The home of the largest electricpower-producing dam in North America, not to mention one of the largest concrete structures in the world. When we arrived, we found the motel with the most motorcycles out front and got a room. After a muchneeded rest, my Dad suggested that we go watch the laser light show that plays nightly at the dam. Afterward, we rode back to the motel where I decided that it would be funny to clip my long blonde hair extensions onto my father’s hair. I figured, if I could put up with a few days of experiencing his world, he could put up with a couple minutes of experiencing mine. The next day, feeling well rested, I was a bit

sad that this was to be the last day of the great riding adventure with my father. We started the day off right with breakfast at a diner called Flo’s Cafe, where the cranky yet endearing waitress’ shirt read “Flo’s Cafe 10,000 flies can’t be wrong”. She slammed down our home-style breakfast, which included their famous house-made strawberry jam. It was just what we needed to fill up before the day’s travels. We had a lot of riding ahead of us that day, we didn’t discuss how close we were to the end of our journey together. We suited up in our rain gear, as we could see the clouds rolling in. A little bit of sun was still shining through the clouds as we stopped on top of a hillside lookout, overlooking the massive Grand Coulee Dam. We drove along Bridgeport Highway, through the farm fields, as the rain clouds got closer and closer. We stopped at a gas

station along the way to hide out from the rain, and met some other bikers who were doing the same thing. As we braved the on-andoff rain throughout the day, we reached the Osoyoos border. My Dad nudged me as we passed a group of lineman working in a power pole in the rain. He is also a lineman and the image of working in the rain is something he’s used to. As we rode by them on our Harley® motorcycles, I realized what a special moment it was to get to see two of my Dad’s passions at once. I smiled and nodded, as I knew exactly what he was nudging me for. No words were spoken. There wasn’t a single thing that my Dad and I didn’t experience on this road trip together. If I had to stand in the rain and ruin my new leather boots I would. I wanted to savour every minute of the remainder of our time together. We were a team now, our own little biker gang. Nothing could dampen our spirits, not even the rain. After another hour or so of riding through the downpour, while getting sprayed by trucks passing us along the way, we finally arrived home to the open arms of my Mom. I gave my Dad a little squeeze as I hopped off the bike. I knew that everything had happened for a reason. The ten year wait, the cancelled Rally, the broken down bikes, and the rainy rides. It all strengthened our bond and made our trip the amazing adventure that it was. Now I completely understand my father’s passion for biking; it was the greatest experience to share it with him, and I only hope that he will take me again next summer.

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BACK SHOP / MARCH 2012 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • ENTHUSIASTS • RIDING STORIES • EXHAUST

FOURSQUARE CRISS-CROSS

A Thunder Bay couple take in local flavour and great rides at four H.O.G.® Rallies By Marty Comber

Acting on a whim, we decided to plan our summer vacations around four H.O.G.® rallies in Kentucky, Ohio, Ontario, and Michigan. The Kentucky H.O.G.® Rally was held in Louisville, and despite the heat, it was a terrific rally. The opportunity to visit Churchill Downs (home of the Kentucky Derby) to watch horse racing on dirt and grass and enjoy a parade that had everyone driving up a walking bridge overlooking Louisville — along with a tour of the Maker’s Mark bourbon distillery, where we purchased a special bottle — made for a memorable trip. And of course, the Colonel Sanders look-a-like helped to start the Rally off when the famous chicken was served. A month later, we headed to the Ohio H.O.G.® Rally in Cuyahoga Falls. We were joined by two of our H.O.G.® friends from our Chapter, stopping first in Port Clinton. The next day we took our bikes over to Put-In-Bay, rode around the island, and enjoyed some of the atmosphere. Then we headed down to an Amish County near Millersburg, Ohio, where we found a jewel, Sojourners Lodge, which was a great place to stay for a few days. We toured

the Amish area and ventured to the Tree Canopy Tours, just south of Loudonville, where we all enjoyed a three hour zip lining tour. This area had great roads for riding, but you had to keep an eye out for all the horses and buggies. Then it was off to the Ohio H.O.G.® Rally. There were bands every night to keep us entertained, different culinary themes, and other daily events. To cap it off, my wife, Lorrie, won the Rally knife, which is quite a treasure. After the Rally finished, we headed back home to Windsor, Ontario, by ferry from Sandusky; the ferry went to Pelee Island and then into Leamington. We had never taken this trip, so it was a good time. One week later, we headed to our 23rd Ontario Provincial H.O.G.® Rally, held in Thunder Bay. We started out a week early so that we could make it another vacation and headed for Muskegon, where we had a ferry crossing booked. We arrived early, only to find out that the Lake Express ferry had broken down out in Lake Michigan. Quickly, we made reservations in Ludington on the SS Badger for the same day, and off we headed. This crossing was at around 8

p.m., and it was cold. Landing in Wisconsin around 1 a.m., we headed to our motel by following a friendly group from the Durham Chapter that had made the crossing with us. The next day, we headed to Milwaukee and spent the day touring the Harley-Davidson MuseumTM, which was one of the highlights of the vacation. Over the next few days we would travel the scenic roads of Wisconsin, stopping in Tomahawk and near the Apostle Islands before entering Minnesota, where we stayed at Grand Marais, which claims to have the best donut in the world. When we re-entered Canada we went straight to the host hotel at the Ontario H.O.G.® Rally, the Victoria Inn. This would prove to be a great rally, and we participated in bike games, bowling bingo, ride to the falls, the parade, and events at the casino. We also hung out with 12 other members of our Windsor Chapter. The journey home was also a great ride,

viewing Lake Superior, crossing into Canada, and crossing the Mackinac bridge. Four weeks later we attended our last H.O.G.® Rally of the year in Michigan, with our host hotel room located at Boyne Mt. Resort. This was one of our favourite rallies, as everything was in the resort or very close by. Scenic areas nearby made this a nice tour, as we took in the Tunnel of Trees and some of the other lake roads. We participated in bike games (winning the first event and picking up a rally scarf), group rides, the parade, and dancing to the music of DeJaVu on the mountain top of Boyne. Dan did a great job of organizing this rally, which finally ended and we made our fivehour trip home. We really enjoyed these rallies, and we are already planning on attending some rallies in 2012, especially in Ontario, which will be hosted by our Chapter in Windsor, Ontario, July 26 to 28, 2012.

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NEW CONTENT, new access, SAME GREAT STORIES

BEING A CANADIAN MEMBER HAS ITS OWN REWARDS

The Harley-Davidson Owners Group of Canada Ltd. and HOG Magazine Canada have taken the next step in its digital evolution. Check out the new website and re-launch of the HOG Magazine Canada E-News. ®

Local Authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson® Retailer news View the digital version of HOG Magazine Canada Updated event information in each region ®

visit www.hogmagazinecanada.ca hog® magazine canada

If you have not received the HOG® Canada E-News go to www.hogmagazinecanada.ca to sign up

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BACK SHOP / MARCH 2012 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • ENTHUSIASTS • RIDING STORIES • EXHAUST

BUGS ON MY WINDSHIELD “What the heck kind of title is that?” was the comment that I received the most when I told my friends and family about an article that I was writing for a motorcycle magazine. After reading it, they weren’t sure if it belonged in a motorcycle magazine or a self-help column. Come to think of it, neither am I. But you will see how “Bugs on My Windshield” changed my whole view of life. When I first started riding, I read many articles in various motorcycle publications theorizing about the psychological benefits of riding and how it helped individuals to

By Joe Barbiere

get through some trying events in their lives. I got tired of the clichés like, “if you have to ask, you wouldn’t understand”, “now you know why dogs stick their heads out of car windows”, “you never see a bike in front of a psychiatrist’s office”, “new riders pick a destination, while old riders pick a direction”, etc. So after 45,000 kilometres and four years of riding, I figured it couldn’t hurt to revisit some of these clichés and see if riding has done anything for my psychological well-being or my general view of the world around me.

I turned 60 years old in February 2011. I started riding at the age of 56. Being an engineer, I knew way too much about the laws of physics and the nasty ways those laws can affect motorcycles. It made me overly cautious. Some of my riding buddies said it made me “psychotically” cautious. After taking the Rider’s Edge® course at a local Harley-Davidson® Retail Store in May 2007, I was ready to ride my brand-new 2007 Harley-Davidson® Dyna® Low Rider® motorcycle into the sunset … in theory anyway. Two months later in July … when I finally got out of fourth gear … my rides were limited to a few miles from my house. They included “road trips” for pet food and going to the grocery store, hardware store, etc. During those early “closeto-home” rides, my Low Rider® motorcycle remained relatively clean. I kept a good coat of wax on it, and I couldn’t understand why “old riders” were always complaining about road dirt, tar, and general dirtiness on their bikes. That is, until my first 400-kilometre ride. Not a crosscountry trip by any means, but for me it was a road trip. I got home and realized that something had happened to my bike that I had never seen. I had so many bugs on my windshield I could hardly see through it. Not only that, it had road dirt, tar, and lots of general dirtiness on it. Which got me thinking: Life has a windshield. All of the events and experiences, both good and bad, that have happened to us are stuck on that windshield like a swarm of juicy locusts. Eventually it becomes hard for us to see clearly, and

it can affect our view of friends, family, work, the world, and just about everything else. How could it not? Think about riding your bike and only being able to see clearly through 10 percent of the windshield. It’s easy to clean the windshield on your bike, even if you let it go too long. It’s not as easy to clean your “windshield of life”, especially if you let it go too long. In my 60 years, I probably should have cleaned my windshield more often. It’s important to have a clear view of the simple things that make life livable, as small as they may be. Maybe the house you’re living in isn’t your dream home, but it’s a home. Some people don’t have a home. Maybe your job isn’t your dream job, but you can put food on your table. Not many people have jobs. Maybe your car isn’t a Corvette, but it runs and provides basic transportation. Clear your view about your friends and family. We all have flaws, but if you’re looking at someone through a bug-free windshield, you’ll realize that we all have some good in us. What do you think … motorcycle publication or selfhelp column? I’m still not sure. I will say this, though: I now have a big bottle of bug cleaner that I have started to use regularly to clean all of my windshields. Thanks to my 400-kilometre “road trip”, I’m starting to see the things around me with a whole new view. Maybe there is some validity to those clichés about riding! Ride safe and clean those bugs. Joe Barbiere is a H.O.G.® member and a member of the Jersey Shore Chapter.

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H.O.G.® yearly packages are sent upon renewal. If you have a July 2011 expiry date for instance, you can renew in January 2011 to receive your pack at the beginning of the season. Your membership will still expire in July 2011, but you will receive your materials sooner — so you don’t lose any months of membership by renewing early! H.O.G.® and H.O.G.® Roadside Assistance are two separate companies, working closely together but with separate enrolment / renewal systems. To upgrade your package or call for service please call the toll-free number at 1-888-443-5896.You must call this number to receive the necessary assistance as per your H.O.G.® membership benefits. Calling another towing service and submitting receipts after the fact is not the proper procedure and will not be reimbursed. Motorcycles must be enrolled in the Mileage Program first before kilometres can be claimed; this applies to all bikes that you want to claim mileage (including rental bikes). Please enrol at your local Retailer, as they are required to sign the form to validate the number of kilometres.

Members receive the year-specific H.O.G.® pins and patches when renewing. In the first year of H.O.G.® Membership, the H.O.G.® (eagle) pin and patch are sent out, not the year specific ones. These are received for the first time on your first year of membership renewal. Free H.O.G.® Membership from a new bike purchase is transferable to an existing full member or associate member. Renewal updates online will be visible within the members only area approximately 10 days after their completion. Online profiles for access to members.hog.com can be created for new memberships within 10 days of your enrollment being processed. For delivery of H.O.G.® materials, please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery as this can vary depending on the local postal service in different areas.

H.O.G. ® Canada Team

Gina McNeil Manager, Enthusiast Services

Stephan Chantal Membership Services Coordinator

Chantele Cumberbatch Programs & Benefits Coordinator

Myles Anderson Regional Director Western

Brad Carvery Regional Director Prairies

Vern Wilson Regional Director Ontario

Michel-André Roy Regional Director Quebec

Dale Williams Regional Director Atlantic

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SAVE THE DATE(S)!

Million Mile Monday is going BIG in 2012 – crossing state lines, borders, oceans, time zones, and even the International Date Line. Not only are we going for more miles, more countries, and more riders in 2012, but we are also going for more days. This “worldwide ride” will include Sunday June 24, as well as Monday June 25, allowing Harley® riders from around the globe the flexibility to participate any way that works best for them. Pick one day or ride both. Go solo or organize a Chapter ride. Just ride! We will show the world what H.O.G.® members can do when we come together as one. Stay tuned for more details, and mark your calendar today!

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