$6.99 can summer 2013
for the harley-davidson enthusiast since 1916 速
canadian edition
THE FREEDOM ISSUE
CANUCK AT DAYTONA / THE BROTHERHOOD OF THE TRAVELLING JACKET / AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION / BRILLIANT REFLECTIONS: RIDING LAKE TEMISKAMING / CANADIAN H.O.G.速 RALLY RIDES / CURVES AHEAD
PURE
* Vehicle shown may vary visually by market and may differ from vehicles manufactured and delivered. See your Retailer for details.
The new Breakout TM motorcycle. Fat 18” rear tire, raked out front end, classic“Gasser” wheels, premium paint, exclusive graphics and a new tank emblem. This one stretches aggressive, factory custom muscle to new lengths. Take a ride. There’s not an ounce of submission in it. 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 Harley-Davidson® Canada, Richmond and Concord. Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada is a proud sponsor of Muscular Dystrophy Canada. ©2013 H-D or its affiliates. H-D, Harley, Harley-Davidson and the bar & shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC.
INSUBORDINATION.
2013 BREAKOUT Visit your authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson速 Retailer today or online at www.harleycanada.com
TM
Departments 6
WELCOME NOTE
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EDITOR’S NOTE & INTAKE
The Freedom Issue Letters from Members
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BACKSTAGE
Dream the Dream
Speed Demon: Joe Petrali in 1937
11 FRONT SHOP 12 News “American Badass” Headlines Celebration 16 Backstory The Ultimate Enthusiasts, Riders with Disabilities 18 Gallery A Bit of Everything from Our Readers On the cover: 2012 Sportster® Forty-Eight™ motorcycle with Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories.
43 44
BACK SHOP
Pitstop Curves Ahead: Conquering the corners
46 An Ounce of Prevention: Expect the unexpected 48 Rally Rides 2013 H.O.G.® Rallies 52 Rally Rides 30 Reasons to Attend 56 Riding Stories Appalachian Wonder: Blue Ridge Parkway 59 Riding Stories Vive la France! The Alsace wine route 61 Riding Stories The Road of Enlightenment: one trip at a time 64 Archives Game On, Again: A history of racing 66 Exhaust Fortunate Son: The riding dream is true
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THAT THUMPING SENSATION YOU FEEL IN YOUR CHEST? THAT’S THE THRILL OF CARVING A CORNER THE WAY THE PROS DO IT. ↓ see page 44
CONTENTS /
SUMMER 2013
Features 22 LIFE’S A BEACH Motorcyclist checks off another item on the bucket list: 2013 Daytona Beach Bike Week. Photography and text by Dustin A. Woods. 28 BROTHERHOOD OF THE TRAVELLING JACKET Two guys, four days, one epic rally, and a new home for the Freedom Jacket. By Christian Schauf. Photography by Kyle Camerer. 34 BRILLIANT REFLECTIONS Riding along Lake Temiskaming’s shores, then north into Quebec, makes the Toronto rush-hour madness an illusion in the mirror. Photography and text by Vicki Gray. 39 BEFORE THE BEGINNING ... History of the Harley and Davidson Families, pre-1903.
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WELCOME / SUMMER 2013 “LIFE IS A JOURNEY, NOT A DESTINATION.” - RALPH WALDO EMERSON
“It can be a hard concept to relate to those who don’t ride, but part of you can become so focused that another part is free to daydream, philosophize and create all at the same time.” HOG® MAGAZINE CANADA IS PUBLISHED BY THE HARLEY OWNERS GROUP® CANADA
SEND US YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS TO: EDITOR@HOGCANADA.CA HOGMAGAZINECANADA.CA 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:
DREAM THE DREAM What is it that engages us to ride and inadvertently create a special bond when it comes to a Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle? For those with ample experience and time on their side, I have been told that sometimes it is a necessary, yet peaceful escape from reality … and having that sense of freedom to get away to clear your head feels more complete on an H-D® bike. Rather than move away from the things that are troubling, you can actually be moving towards something, some greater, larger thing that you need to move towards more than anything else. When this is your purpose, riding doesn’t just necessarily transport you to a destination; it is the destination. On a younger more edgy side, I have heard it said that if you don’t ride, you are living a little less than you want to be living! Motorcycling is a thrilling experience, a little risky, but that makes it that much more life affirming for those with a wild side. However, riding a Harley® motorcycle demands respect, as well as physical and mental acuity, but, ironically, your mind is free to wander. It can be a hard concept to relate to those who don’t ride, but part of you can become so focused that another part is free to daydream, philosophize and create all at the same time. You’ll notice that although the approach and mind-set for varying age groups can be different there is a common kinship that brings us all together and makes it truly all about the riding. This is what is so great about being a Harley® bike owner, you all belong together as part of a much larger community, but at the same time may have very different missions, interests or aims on what you want to get out of the experience. This is the strength and power that the Harley-Davidson Motor Company has created in fostering the opportunity for any multigenerational rider, to be a part of a global family with the Harley Owners Group® in which each person is equally as individualistic and valued as the next. H.O.G.® also gives you ample opportunity to express yourself through your own personal style; by the way you customize your bike; whether you like to ride in a group or prefer to ride alone; and that drive to be different creates an actual connection that is at the very heart of the HarleyDavidson® experience. H.O.G.® has come a long way over the last 30 years and we continue to strive to be better, as well as, more relevant to our newest, youngest and most loyal riders alike. It has always has been an important part of Harley-Davidson who’s purpose for more than 110 years has been to fulfill dreams of freedom, a feeling of liberation, a means for self-expression and independence. To achieve our purpose, we must not only design, build and deliver the best motorcycles, but through H.O.G.® we also empower and enable our customers to achieve their dreams of freedom and to keep dreaming bigger. Together we share a bond that sets us apart from the rest of the world. - Gina McNeil 6
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GINA MCNEIL MANAGER, ENTHUSIAST SERVICES DUARTE PITA EDITOR SCOTT CLARK PRODUCTION TERESA COLUSSI COMMUNICATIONS BRAD JANDREW DIRECTOR OF MARKETING PRODUCTION, DESIGN & SALES BY
WWW.FRESHAIRPUBLISHING.CA GORDIE BOWLES PRODUCTION KAT MORGENROTH DESIGN DON CAMERON DESIGN FRENCH Please direct any advertising inquiries to INFO@FRESHAIRPUBLISHING.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. ©2013 H-D or its affiliates. H-D, Harley, Harley-Davidson and the bar & shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC. Printed in Canada.
EDITOR’S NOTE + INTAKE / SUMMER 2013 LETTERS FROM OUR MEMBERS
Editor’s Note
THE FREEDOM ISSUE
Question of the day: How would you describe freedom from a rider’s perspective?
Welcome one and all to this summer’s edition of HOG® Magazine Canada. We’ve titled this publication The Freedom Issue. What is Freedom? Many people dream about it, and even more talk about it, but could anyone really explain what it is, or better yet, how it should feel, what it looks like, and how it sounds? As a fellow rider, freedom to me is the sensation I get when riding on a pristine road that feels like 24 carat black gold under my bike, with the sun’s rays gleaming down heating the leather and chrome, the smells of the great outdoors brushing by me, and no particular destination in mind. In other words, to get lost somewhere and then find yourself, in more ways than one (see 30 Reasons to Attend a 2013 Event, pages 52-53). As you all must know by now, the Harley Owners Group® is celebrating its 30th Anniversary this year and HOG® Magazine Canada is holding an exciting photo contest to see how our members will be celebrating this milestone. Creativity is key here, so go ahead and “bling out” your bike and/or your road gear, and show us what you are going to do to commemorate this landmark occasion! Wear some H.O.G.® 30th Anniversary clothing, proudly display a H.O.G.® 30th Anniversary flag with your ride, or give a visual description of your H.O.G.® 30th Anniversary plans. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Well, this is your opportunity to share your passion and walk (ride) away with a H.O.G.® 30th Anniversary gift package. Please see page 65 for contest details. We have an exciting issue for your reading pleasure, chock full of member photos in the Gallery and some feature articles that are sure to entice as we come into the peak of this new riding season. I love hearing from all our members from coast-to-coast. Make sure to send me your thoughts on the contents of this new issue, or simply to share a personal riding story at editor@hogcanada.ca. Duarte Pita Editor, HOG ® Magazine Canada
was enough to convince my parents that this was not to be my path in life! Fast forward some 30 years or so, I now ride a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle, but never did get the proper training to become a full-fledged mechanic. All I can say is that Mr. Villanueva is certainly living a mechanic’s dream – maintaining, improving, and riding an iconic American motorcycle.
Every single compliment I have received about the bike (and there have been many!) is about the paint job. Many people are surprised to learn that the Denim Black is stock. Many thanks to those at Tomahawk for the quality they turn out every day, and thank you for a great story.
Mario Bottoni, Woodbridge, Ontario
I am writing you to thank you for the very informative article on getting my motorcycle
A MECHANIC’S DREAM
PAINT JOBS
The feature on the young mechanic, Sam Villanueva, brought me back to my teens, when the only thing I wanted to do in life was to ride either one of my motorcycles or fix them! But, one minor accident
I really enjoyed the story on the Harley-Davidson® Tomahawk facility in the Spring 2013 edition. My current ride is a Denim Black 2012 Road Glide® motorcycle that I had tweaked with custom striping.
John Bullis, VIA EMAIL
READY AND SET TO RIDE
ready for the road after a long hibernation period. Too often, people neglect to do these steps and their motorcycles are not in tip-top shape. We definitely need to make sure that we are safe on our roads, as should be our motorcycles. After a long winter, the oil tends to gunk up. Giving it an oil change will make your engine purr with delight. Again, thank you for the very helpful tips on getting my motorcycle ready for the riding season! Anonymous, VIA EMAIL
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 / SPEED DEMON The first Harley-Davidson速 WL models were produced in 1937, the year rider Joe Petrali set a new land speed record of 219 kilometres per hour on a modified 61 cubic inch overhead valve-driven motorcycle. On the same day, he also broke the speed record for a 45 cubic inch engine motorcycle.
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SUMMER 2013
Photograph courtesy of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company Archives. Copyright H-D.
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Take Our Rewards for a Test Ride Best Western® has been known for many years as the heart and soul of Canadian hospitality and travel. We care about what riders want in a hotel - that’s why we created our free Best Western Ride Rewards® program designed for Harley-Davidson® enthusiasts. H.O.G.® members are automatically upgraded to Platinum Elite status, so you’ll earn free nights even faster. Staying with us allows you the freedom to ride across the country to over 100 Rider-Friendly® hotels in Canada*, so you’re sure to find a Best Western that’s right for your ride. We invite you to Stay with people who careSM and start earning your rewards.
Enroll & Book Today | BWrider.com | 1.888.BW2BIKE * Numbers are approximate and may fluctuate. Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International, Inc. ©2013 Best Western International, Inc. All rights reserved. Harley-Davidson, H-D, the Bar and Shield logo and H.O.G. are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC. Each Best Western® branded hotel is independently owned and operated.
FRONT SHOP/ NEWS
SUMMER 2013
“American Badass” Headlines Celebration
BACKSTORY
The Ultimate Enthusiasts ... Riders with Disabilities.
GALLERY A bit of everything from our readers.
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FRONT SHOP / SUMMER 2013 NEWS • BACKSTORY • GALLERY
Milwaukee, WI North America
Philippines
ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK AND HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTOR COMPANY ANNOUNCE AN EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP DURING THE 110TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR Rockstar Energy Drink has joined forces with Harley-Davidson Motor Company to commemorate the monumental 110th Anniversary of the legendary Harley-Davidson® Brand. The year-long, global celebration is connecting millions of Harley-Davidson® motorcycle fans united by a common bond and a shared passion for freedom, selfexpression, and epic adventure.
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Main events throughout the year will showcase the partnerships such as Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, August 3-10; and the 110th Anniversary in Milwaukee, August 28 to September 1. Milwaukee will play host to the biggest party of the 110th Anniversary tour. Both American-made Brands, Rockstar Energy Drink and Harley-Davidson, have created four special edition motorcycles that will be given away to fans throughout the year, through both the Rockstar Energy Drink and Harley-Davidson social media channels. These four custom bikes were built by motorcycle legend Rusty Coones out of Illusion Motorcycles in Huntington Beach, California, and will be travelling to
Daytona Bike Week, Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, and the 110th Anniversary celebration in Milwaukee. For more information, go to www.h-d.com/110.
“AMERICAN BADASS” KID ROCK AND HARLEYDAVIDSON MOTOR COMPANY PARTNER UP FOR EPIC CELEBRATIONS In its most thrilling and globally epic anniversary celebration to date, HarleyDavidson Motor Company has announced an exclusive partnership with legendary musician and “American Badass”, Kid Rock. This includes a Saturday night
performance for the 110th Anniversary celebration of the Company in Milwaukee over this coming Labour Day weekend in September. The first-of-its-kind partnership brings together two legendary American rebels, and names Harley‑Davidson as a title sponsor of Kid Rock’s Rebel Soul tour. Harley-Davidson plans to offer concertgoers unique experiences at each of the 60 planned stops on the Rebel Soul tour. The final stop is Saturday, August 31, 2013, when Kid Rock rolls into Milwaukee, the hometown of Harley-Davidson, to party with thousands of his fellow riders. Kid Rock will play a ticketed show at the Marcus Amphitheater, which is located on the south end of Milwaukee’s Henry Maier Festival Park
(Summerfest Grounds). Fans who purchase 110th Anniversary ticket packages – available at www.ticketmaster.com – will have an opportunity to purchase tickets for Kid Rock’s 110th Anniversary performance. Kid Rock is one of three headliners that HarleyDavidson has announced for the 110th Anniversary celebration in Milwaukee.
THE HARLEYDAVIDSON® BRAND IS NOW IN THE PHILIPPINES On its 110th Anniversary, the legendary American motorcycle Brand has opened its first Retail Store in the Philippines; its sixth in Southeast Asia. American Motorcycles, Inc., the official distributor of Harley‑Davidson® motorcycles in the country, believes the Philippine market is ready for the Harley‑Davidson® Brand. This is due to a strong, positive American influence, as well as the growing economy, which the company expects to support consumerism, leisure, and a higher standard of living. There are already about 800 to 1,000 existing HarleyDavidson® motorcycle owners in the Philippines. They belong to different age groups that have an affinity for the HarleyDavidson® lifestyle and are located in various parts of the country. Harley® motorcycle owners can even choose from a wide range of Parts & Accessories to customize their ride. More than just the bikes, long-time Harley-Davidson® motorcycle fans can find authentic riding gear, apparel, and merchandise at the Retail Store.
2013 MOTORCYCLE RIDE FOR DAD Each year, thousands of motorcycle riders across Canada drive the fight against prostate cancer with the TELUS Motorcycle Ride For Dad, supported by Deeley HarleyDavidson® Canada. Ride events take place in more than 30 cities across Canada, throughout the months of May and June. Each ride consists of a parade, Poker Run, prizes, and more. The ride is a day of fun for a serious cause – prostate cancer – the most commonly diagnosed men’s cancer. Astonishingly, one in seven Canadian men will be affected in their lifetime, making prostate cancer the second leading cause of cancerrelated death in men. However,
the news is not all bad. With the help of events like the TELUS Motorcycle Ride For Dad, and the support of Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada, more men are being tested early and research is being done to improve outcomes. To help give riders some extra incentive to ask friends and family to dig deep into their wallets, Deeley HarleyDavidson® Canada is donating three gift certificates worth up to $5,000, which will be awarded to three lucky winners who raise a minimum of $200 in pledges. For more information on the TELUS Motorcycle Ride For Dad, please visit www.ridefordad.ca.
WIN THE ULTIMATE TRIP TO THE HOMETOWN THROWDOWN If you love the HarleyDavidson® and UFC® Brands, you won’t want to miss out on the contest that brings these two legendary names together. But, time is running out, so you are going to have to act fast. Deeley HarleyDavidson® Canada is giving you an opportunity to take part in an epic weekend during the Harley-Davidson® 110th Anniversary celebration in Milwaukee. The winner will receive a V.I.P. trip for two to the UFC® Hometown Throwdown in Milwaukee, which includes flight and accommodations, prime seats at the main event and weigh-ins, a training session with UFC® superstar Cain Velasquez, and a Custom 2013 Harley-Davidson® Street Bob® motorcycle. Now that’s how to let the good times roll! To enter, all you need to do is create a Harley-Davidson® 110th Anniversary celebration graphic and let us know why you feel it is worthy of representing these two legends. The contest closes on June 30, 2013. Complete details and entry forms are available at h-d.com/ufc.
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FRONT SHOP / SUMMER 2013 NEWS • BACKSTORY • GALLERY
H.O.G.® MEMBERS GET MORE - WITH THEIR CARD! TWO CELEBRATIONS + ONE PARTY = LIFELONG MEMORIES.
Harley-Davidson Motor Company and the Harley Owners Group® are in the final stages of preparation for the party of the century, with both the H-D® 110th and H.O.G.® 30th Anniversary celebrations rolled up into one fine package.
The H.O.G.® 30th Anniversary festivities will be integrated directly into the 110th Anniversary celebrations, to show how proud we are of H.O.G.® and how important H.O.G.® is to Harley-Davidson. It won’t be hidden off at another site. And, it is the perfect way to show those who are not H.O.G.® members what they are missing out on. More visibility – to make H.O.G.® better! “Members-only” activities will be taking place throughout the three-day event, starting with the H.O.G.® 30th Anniversary celebration members-only access to the Summerfest Grounds on Thursday, August 29, from noon to 5:00 pm. This will include a headline performance by Lynyrd Skynyrd and friends. There will also be a members-only space on the festival grounds, an MDA raffle for a new 2014 bike that will be for H.O.G.®
MEMBERS.HOG.COM The recently-invigorated members.hog.com website is now live in English (French to follow shortly) and is “one of the most valuable assets we have to inspire riding activity and move the Brand forward – strengthening the emotional and social connection of riders with Harley-Davidson [Motor Company] and each other,” said Gina McNeil, Manager, Enthusiast Services, for Harley Davidson Owners Group® of Canada Ltd.
members ONLY during the Thursday celebrations, the H.O.G.® riding skills finals, a walking parade, and a 2014 H-D® motorcycle showcase. As an added bonus, we have seating for H.O.G.® members only at the BMO Harris Pavilion stage. There is no additional charge to H.O.G.® members to join in the celebration of the H.O.G.® 30th Anniversary. However, there will be no admittance to the H.O.G.® 30th Anniversary celebrations or special onsite arrangements without your H.O.G.® CD membership card, which must be shown with a Milwaukee H-D® 110th Anniversary celebration ticket for entry. If you can’t find your card, call the office now at 800-668-4836 to get a replacement. Also, please don’t wait to renew your membership or sign-up as an Associate, to ensure you receive your materials and card in time for the event.
KEY FEATURES: › Canadian localized and personalized content in English and French › Rider-generated content (photos, ride ratings and reviews, comments) › Info and inspiring content (including, but not limited to HOG® Magazine Canada content). › A new way to showcase events. Enjoy the All NEW exclusive H.O.G.® members-only website with a wide range of new features.
HARLEY® ON SCREEN 1978 H-D® XR750 Sportster® model, in Viva Knievel, Movie, 1977 1990 H-D® FXRS Low Rider® model, in Nothing but Trouble, Movie, 1991 1996 H-D® Sportster® model, in Escape from L.A., Movie, 1996 2005 H-D® Dyna® model, in Open Water 2, Movie, 2006
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POWER UP YOUR MILWAUKEE ANNIVERSARY PLANNING! AND MAKE THE MOST OF THE HARLEY-DAVIDSON 110TH AND H.O.G.® 30TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS IN MILWAUKEE – AUGUST 29 TO SEPTEMBER 1, 2013.
H.O.G.® 30TH AT THE H-D 110TH
Get your Celebration Ticket and get to Milwaukee early to enjoy exclusive members-only H.O.G.® events at the Summerfest Grounds:
Friday, August 30: Aerosmith
THURSDAY, AUGUST 29
EXCLUSIVE EARLY ENTRY FOR H.O.G.® MEMBERS-ONLY: FROM NOON TO 5:00 PM* › Members-only concert featuring LYNYRD SKYNYRD › H.O.G.® motorcycle skills competition › Members-only MDA bike raffle › New Orleans-style walking parade; wear your country colours and wave your flags › And much more!
ALL WEEKEND LONG*
MEMBER SERVICES: pick up 30th Anniversary pin; meet staff from Harley-Davidson Motor Company and H.O.G.®, Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada as well as H.O.G.® members from around the world › Members-only merchandise › Exclusive H.O.G.® seating at the BMO Harris Pavilion › Two members-only lounges with cash bars › And much more!!
NO TICKET REQUIRED
DO NOT MISS THESE OTHER EXCITING H.O.G.® ANNIVERSARY EVENTS IN MILWAUKEE: › Chapter Parade of Flags at the H-D 110th Anniversary parade › Pin stop at Harley-Davidson MuseumTM and Custom Bike Show › Pin stop at Pilgrim Road Powertrain location and 2014 H-D® demo rides FIND OUT MORE AT H-D.COM/110MILWAUKEE *Celebration Ticket required.
Saturday: August 31: Kid Rock
Thursday, August 29: Toby Keith
LEGENDARY ENTERTAINMENT
HARLEY-DAVIDSON HAS LINED UP more than 60 local and national bands to perform at the Summerfest Grounds throughout the weekend – including these legendary headliners at the Marcus Amphitheater. Separate tickets are required for Marcus Amphitheater concerts, which are on sale now for celebration ticket holders.
JOIN THE CELEBRATION
PURCHASE YOUR CELEBRATION TICKETS NOW AT H-D.COM/110TICKETS.
COMMEMORATIVE CELEBRATION TICKET PACKAGE
(US$102.50**) Includes three-day access to the event grounds, presale access for headlining concerts, official event mobile app, and a map of historic H-D® sites in Milwaukee, plus a commemorative photo holder, laminated ticket and lanyard, 110th Anniversary pocket guide, limited-edition poker chip, guitar pick keepsake, and a drink koozie with drink discounts at the event. **Convenience fees are not included. Note: Information is subject to change.
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FRONT SHOP / SUMMER 2013 NEWS • BACKSTORY • GALLERY
THE ULTIMATE ENTHUSIASTS ... RIDERS WITH DISABILITIES
By Maria Schoeberl, Senior Archivist Harley-Davidson® motorcycle riders have always been well-suited to the name “Enthusiast”. And there have always been riders who have proudly taken this title to great lengths. Perhaps the best examples of this are the riders who have overcome physical disability to pursue their love of motorcycling. One of the earliest photographs in the Harley-Davidson archives features one such rider. The image, taken circa 1919, shows longdistance rider Alfred LeRoy in his specially modified motorcycle and sidecar. LeRoy, who lost his left arm and at least one leg in an unidentified incident, modified the hand and foot controls so that they could all be operated with his right hand. He then had the left handlebar extended so that he could operate the motorcycle while sitting in the sidecar, which was attached to the left side of the vehicle. As a finishing touch, LeRoy had a smaller, leather-upholstered sidecar for his dog attached to the left of his own.
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Photographs courtesy of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company Archives. Copyright H-D.
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FRONT SHOP / SUMMER 2013 NEWS • BACKSTORY • GALLERY
MEMBERS GALLERY
Christopher Smith from Woodstock, Ontario, on Route 163S in Utah.
Joelene Tobin from St. Brides, NFLD on her 2010 Harley-Davidson® Dyna® Wide Glide® motorcycle in August 2012, Salmon Arm, B.C.
Mike Beerthuizen from Kakabeka Falls, Ontario, at the Bighorn National Forest, Wyoming.
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Mike and Trish Barber from Scarborough, Ont., with Bill Davidson, in Milwaukee at the Harley-Davidson Museum™ restaurant.
(L to R) Jean-Marie Bourque, Daniel Valiquette, Jean-Paul Marquis, and Richard Ayotte, all from Quebec, at the Blue Ridge Parkway, Cherokee, North Carolina, in the summer of 2012.
Roger and Stephanie Benson from Calgary, Alberta, in Key West, Florida, at the southernmost point in the U.S., in June 2012.
Dennis Butcher from Collingwood, Ontario, in the Badlands, South Dakota, in June 2012.
Robert and Jacinthe Descent from SainteAnne-des-Lacs, Quebec, in the Eastern Townships of Quebec.
Frank Stanley from Jordan Station, Ontario, on the Tail of the Dragon (Tennessee) in the summer of 2012.
Mark Tobin from Newfoundland, with his 2006 Screamin’ Eagle® Fat Boy® motorcycle, in St. Philip’s, Newfoundland.
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FRONT SHOP / SUMMER 2013 NEWS • BACKSTORY • GALLERY
MEMBERS GALLERY
Sylvain Dugas from Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, Quebec, at the Percé Rock, Percé, Québec.
Brandon Buliziuk’s Sportster® Iron 883™ motorcycle, just outside Lillooet, B.C. in July, 2012.
Alexander’s first Harley® themed motorcycle! Photo sent in by his Grandfather, Larry Huseby from Grande Prairie, Alberta.
Ross and Sue Guerriero from Oakville, Ontario, on the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia.
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To serve you better please note the new Canadian/Norscot distribution model. • All shipments will be free domicile direct to customer’s door. • Fee schedule covering taxes and duties will be assessed to each order. • Orders under $20.00 USD (primarily pins and patches) will continue to be sent by USPS. Unless evaluated otherwise by Norscot’s Customer Service. • Orders of $200.00 USD or less will ship via UPS with customer responsibility of the 11% surcharge plus the standard UPS shipping rates. • Orders over $201.00 USD and more will ship via UPS with customer responsibility of the 14% surcharge plus the standard UPS shipping rates. • Under the new program, Norscot will be covering the brokerage fees. • For orders of both custom product and stocked product, merchandise will be held until custom product is completed and will ship together, unless there is an immediate need for the stock merchandise, it will be shipped separately upon request. • In stock merchandise will continue to have the standard 24 hour fulfillment time. • UPS ground is the default shipping method, unless the customer requests expedited shipping. Please note UPS ground time to Canada from the Norscot warehouse averages 3-5 business days. For detailed information, contact:
Phone: 800-821-5580 • Fax: 800-653-4904 • Online: members.hog.com
LIFE’S A
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A BEACH è MOTORCYCLIST TICKS OFF ANOTHER FROM THE BUCKET LIST: 2013 DAYTONA BEACH BIKE WEEK By: Dustin A. Woods hog® magazine canada
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Attendees arrived on stock cruisers and sportbikes, customized and chromed choppers, flamboyant Hayabusas with swingarms stretched to eternity, and indiscernible do-it-yourself projects that made your back hurt just by looking at them.
here are various annual events across this vast continent that must be experienced by specific groups of people in their lifetime. Are you an equestrian enthusiast? You simply must see the Kentucky Derby. A football fanatic? The Superbowl is a spectacle that must be witnessed while you’re still on this side of the sod. As most of the readers of HOG® Magazine Canada can relate to, my passion resides in torqued internal combustion propulsion of the two-wheeled variety, so I surely couldn’t turn down an opportunity to see what sunny Daytona Bike Week was all about when the invitation arrived at the tail end of the icy depths of winter.
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Now in its 72nd year, the event has grown to inconceivable proportions with this year’s “week” of festivities spanning from March 8 to 17. Despite being lectured en route to my hotel by an adamant cab driver about how I had come just in time for the death rattle, my expectations were blown right out of the water. The largest biker Rally I had attended prior to 2013 Bike Week in Daytona Beach was the Port Dover Friday the 13th festivities, which can draw anywhere from 5,000 to 20,000 people depending on the time of year. Official counts have yet to come in, but Bike Week has been known to attract as many as half a million, so needless to say it was a sight to behold.
Originally planning to fly south of the snow and take a road trip down, a hefty work schedule foiled my plans, forcing me to fly directly to Daytona for the sake of saving time. Nevertheless, I made the most of it by renting a Candy Apple Red Harley-Davidson® Electra Glide® Classic bike for the weekend. While I’ve logged literally thousands of kilometres in the saddle of a sibling to this hefty V-Twin tourer, it wouldn’t have been my first choice for navigating the busy city streets lined with motorcycles, crowds of enthusiasts, vendors, strollers, and cars alike. That being said, while every possible form of two-wheeled transportation was represented, Harley-Davidson® motorcycles were definitely the mount of choice, and it was good to have room for my camera gear and a stereo on-board. After hooking up the bike, the next priority was finding a place to hang my head. Sporting no fewer than three establishments in the region, Best Western offered several options for those either looking to be right in the thick of things or to be far enough from the craziness to actually get some sleep. I chose the latter rather than the former, but the location on West International Speedway Boulevard still resembled a Show ‘N Shine, with the entire hotel occupied by motorcycles and riders of all kinds. The beauty of Best Western is that many of their properties are rider friendly, and they offer pretty significant discounts for Harley® motorcycle owners, which definitely adds up over the course of a long trip. Unlike most rallies of this kind, there wasn’t simply one hot spot where everyone congregated. Crowds seemed to be equally dispersed around the city, based on the kind of scene they preferred. Main Street seemed to be where the majority of the wild and weird was happening, so I spent considerable time watching the parades of people and their creations. Inside the belly of the beast, you will see the craziest of customs, more ink and silicone than you ever thought possible, and more skin than you’d like to lay your eyes on in
THERE WERE THOUSANDS OF RIDERS, ON EVERY CONCEIVABLE BIKE YOU CAN IMAGINE, BUZZING AROUND LIKE SWARMS OF WILD, PETROLEUM-FUELED BEES. hog® magazine canada
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BOASTING STRETCHES OF SPARKLING BLUE WAVES, WHITE SAND, AND SMOOTH ASPHALT UNDER SUNNY SKIES, OCCASIONALLY SHROUDED BY THE SHADE OF MATURE TREES, IT WASN’T DIFFICULT TO SEE WHY THIS AREA HAS BECOME A DESTINATION FOR RIDERS. most cases. Attendees arrived on stock cruisers and sportbikes, customized and chromed choppers, flamboyant Hayabusas with swingarms stretched to eternity, and indiscernible do-it-yourself projects that made your back hurt just by looking at them. Event planners diligently work all year long to secure partners and sponsorships, ensuring everything runs smoothly for all who attend. It didn’t take long to realize that this wasn’t their first rodeo. I had been told that there are many must dos while attending Bike Week, one of which is riding The Loop, a roughly 230-kilometre boondoggle where you can get out of second gear, unlike most of the city. Boasting stretches of sparkling blue waves, white sand, and smooth asphalt under sunny skies, occasionally shrouded by the shade of mature trees, it wasn’t difficult to see why this area has become a destination for riders of all shapes and sizes. Doing my best to explore all there was to offer in a short amount of time, I couldn’t resist visiting Bruce Rossmeyer’s HarleyDavidson®, the largest H-D® Retailer on the planet. Roughly the size of your local Walmart, you could literally spend days perusing the massive two-level Store, which
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features every conceivable piece of H-D® merchandise, as well as a sizeable offering of motorcycles, both new and used. Their outlet Store across the parking lot offers some serious discounts for the previous season’s apparel and merchandise, as long as you don’t care about wearing up-to-theminute riding attire. I certainly don’t, so I actually ended up saving about 50 percent on my new leather Harley® jacket. After leaving Rossmeyer’s H-D® Retail Store in Ormond, I cruised down to his original location, which has been re-opened as a museum. Following his death in a motorcycle accident in 2009, the family closed the Store and followed his vision of curating a museum in his honour, which opened last spring. Over at the Daytona International Speedway, race fans were taking in Retailer demos and swap meets and were treated to exciting two-wheeled competition all weekend long, including the AMA Vance & Hines XR1200® Series, featuring Canadian racing legend Steve Crevier. The throaty V-Twin engines tackled the five-kilometre motorcycle course, making an exciting spectacle for racers and fans alike. Unsurprisingly, things only got more interesting once the sun went down and
revellers continued on until the wee hours of the morning. Seeing as I had a painfully early flight home on Sunday morning, I had every intention of behaving Saturday night. Parked at the bar with my iPad and a mission to file a story while watching UFC 158 in Montreal, the night ended with me walking into my hotel room as my alarm clock was madly buzzing and my airport transfer was already waiting out front. Seeing as George St. Pierre was set to fight Nick Diaz after midnight and some friendly amateur racers sitting beside me were dead set on painting the town red, who was I to oppose copious shots of whiskey? I wasn’t riding anywhere. Needless to say, there is no shortage of
TRIP PLANNING AT ITS FINEST While I am often a fan of speeding off in a non predetermined direction without a particular destination in mind, serendipitously travelling wherever the breeze may happen to take me, there are times when a trip requires forethought and planning if you want to be where the action is and don’t want to sleep alone in a ditch. The Harley-Davidson® Ride Planner provides a wealth of online information, featuring interactive maps that let you know where to find interesting places and the best curvy roads, as well as accommodation information and booking options. Want your adventure to coincide with a particular festival, Rally, or event? They are all there. I even used it to locate and book the rental of my Electra Glide® motorcycle for the weekend. The truly fascinating aspect is the embedded modern interactivity that allows you to save and share your itinerary or even synchronize it to your GPS. Isn’t technology grand? http://rideplanner.harley-davidson.com/ rideplanner/rideplanner.jsp
friendly people from all over the continent simply looking to have a good time. Considering there were thousands of riders, on every conceivable bike you can imagine, buzzing around like swarms of wild, petroleum-fueled bees, I was shocked to see only a single mishap during my time in the city. Before I could even react to a guy who was cut off in the middle of an intersection by a beige Corolla (why is it always a beige Corolla) and forced to dump his Street Glide® bike at low speed, a group of legitimate colourdonning, full patch-holding bikers hopped the fence of the patio where they had been drinking cold beer on the hot day, dusted off his old lady, and straightened his handlebars for him. You don’t often expect that kind of goodwill from such a motley group, but it was mirrored by everyone I came across during my trip. That’s just the kind of camaraderie and friendly atmosphere you’ll find at Daytona Bike Week, reinforcing the fact that if you’re into life on two wheels, it is not to be missed.
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D O O H R E H G T N O I R L B L E V A T TR E K JAC TH E
OF TH E
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,000 5 7 S, , S E Y L A C D Y RC UR O O T F 速 , O S E M Y M U N O G O H O S ID EW TW V N A D A X. I D Y L N E E A L , F LLY H AR ET: A K C R A C J PI ONE E E FREEDOM H FOR T r amere le C
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y younger brother’s wedding was in six days, and I had the honour and responsibility of being the best man. Knowing the risk of my often-crazy lifestyle, my family made me promise that I’d stay in town, help set up, and generally sit tight to make sure I didn’t miss it. Then I got a call from Milwaukee. “What are you doing this weekend?” asked the guy from Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Suddenly, all bets were off. “Uh, not much ... what’s up?” “We’d like to send you to Austria for European Bike Week.” Visions of missed flights, an unprepared best man speech, and foreign jail waged war against the idea of riding a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle through the Alps and whatever a European biker party could have in store. “I’m in.” Twenty-four hours later, I was on a plane with a special riding jacket that was about to embark on another leg of its unique trip. The simple, black leather Freedom Jacket began its journey in China last August (see Exhaust, Spring 2013 issue), and will spend the rest of this year circling the world, being passed along through a global hand-off from rider to rider. Every mark and adornment it acquires from those who wear it along the way will tell the collective story of its journey. When it arrives back home in Milwaukee at the Harley-Davidson 110th Anniversary celebration, it will be displayed in the HarleyDavidson Museum™.
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ith me was my good friend and videographer Kyle Camerer. Our mission was to head to Faaker See, Austria, navigate through 75,000 riders at European Bike Week, and then find someone deserving of wearing the Freedom Jacket – all the while, documenting our adventure. Oh, and I had to be back in Wisconsin in less than 100 hours. The sun was just peeking over the horizon as we rolled in to Faaker See, a resort area in southern Austria that, for the past 15 years, has been home to European Bike Week during the first week of September. Picturesque homes dotted the shores of a beautiful lake nestled between the rolling Alpine foothills. It was early, but the village was already bustling with life. If you’ve ever seen the movie Heidi, add 75,000 Harley-Davidson® motorcycles, and you have a pretty good idea of what we found. We dropped our bags, swapped our rental car for an Ember Red Sunglo Street Glide® motorcycle, loaded the saddlebags with cameras, gear, and a few Red Bulls, and set out. As we navigated the early morning crowds in the Harley-Davidson® area, my ears darted from one discussion to another. I challenged myself to figure out what languages I was hearing, and smiled when a German or Italian
sentence was suddenly punctuated by “Softail Deluxe” or “Road Glide Custom” in perfect English. “Do you have a plan for finding someone for the jacket?” Kyle asked. I didn’t have an answer. The reality of the assignment was starting to settle in, and frankly, all I wanted to do was get on the bike and join the constant stream of motorcycles following the black ribbons of asphalt as they rolled up into the hills. “We’ll figure it out. Maybe we should go get some riding footage first.” Kyle gave a knowing smile, and we began to mount GoPro cameras to the Street Glide® bike. I’m sure we looked funny: two men with cameras shooting in every direction, including a “narwhal” mount sticking off the front of my helmet like a tusk. Kyle held on with one hand and worked a GoPro on the end of a 6-foot monopod from the rear fender. But we were riding, and it was awesome. The weather was perfect, and there was something spiritual about being in a pack of thousands of motorcycles, moving in unison. I didn’t understand half the road signs, but I just rolled with the flow and followed the pack. As we passed other bikers, they cheered, honked, or flashed us the peace sign. We finished our loop of the lake and parked near the Free Biker area to explore and seek out someone we felt was deserving of leaving their mark on the Freedom Jacket. If the Harley-Davidson® area was a state fair, then the Free Biker area was a carnival. It was still a decidedly Harley® scene, but heavier on the customization and a bit looser in general. The smells of exhaust, barbecue, leather, and burnt rubber mixed together and hung in the humid air
“All I wanted to do was join the constant stream of motorcycles following the black ribbons of asphalt as they rolled up into the hills.”
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Two very different people had unpredictably come together to make a beautiful piece of art.
as we navigated aisles and aisles of products, shops, and people. It was there, among the black and orange, the leather and chrome, that we found Felix. Felix sat on a chair outside a red, white, and blue booth. His shop looked like the wardrobe department from a biker movie crossed with the coolest thrift shop you’ve ever seen. He had an eclectic mix of objects for sale, and the backdrop of his shop was a huge American flag silk-screened with vintage pictures of James Dean. We made introductions, and it didn’t take long to realize Felix was our man. In Italian-accented English, Felix spoke of the romance of riding, how the vibrations and smells of fresh gas and oil distill into an inner peace. A collector of old Harley® motorcycles, he was obviously a great salesman, as almost everyone who entered his shop left with some sort of memento. He greeted everyone with a warm smile and white wine. As Felix explained, if you mix it in equal parts with sparkling water, you can drink all day, feel good, and never get a headache. This guy had life down to an art.
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When we asked if he’d leave his mark on the jacket, he was thrilled. His vision was simple: a peace sign should be on the Freedom Jacket, because to Felix, “with peace, you live healthier, think clearer, and ride better.” We told him we’d return the next day, giving him an opportunity to get his brushes and paints together. Kyle and I headed back to our bike. Excited we had found someone, but also exhausted from over two days without sleep, we planned to check into our hotel rooms, get some food, and charge our batteries. But while walking back, we ran into European H.O.G.® Director Nigel Villiers, and the next thing you know, we were checking out a cover band called “Smash Brothers” on the main stage. I caught a second wind, and we decided to hang out for awhile. We passed the Freedom Jacket around for photo ops, and got the lead singer to wear the jacket on stage for one song. It was the first time I’ve seen a man sing “R.E.S.P.E.C.T.” (or any other song) while wearing a leather jacket and a kilt. The crowd ate it up.
The next morning, I awoke to church bells echoing off the hills. Kyle and I gathered our gear and headed down to Felix’s shop where he was waiting for us. As he painted, Felix shared stories from his life. He was a former Team Burton professional snowboarder, which explained why he made the Dolomite mountains his home. He talked about the time he made 25 passes through the mountains in one day, which equated to roughly a thousand miles, on a 40-year-old bike. For all I know, he could have made it all up, but I believed him. I had no desire not to. As the paint left his brush, he explained his design. Each colour represented something to him, from the Austrian flag colours outlining the peace sign, to the blue representing the lake at the centre of Faaker See. Other colours were symbolic of the different nationalities coming together around the lake for Bike Week. As the hours ticked by, the stories continued to roll, and we began to regard Felix as an old friend. We were talking about riding with our friends, when Felix’s eyes lit up. “You have to meet my friend. He’s a very important pinstriper.” A short walk away, we found “The Blaster” set up next to an outdoor bar, in front of his old Volkswagen van. There were a few bikes sitting around waiting to be painted, and a stack of helmets. The Blaster’s own custom Panhead motorcycle sat amongst them. As we entered his shop, The Blaster looked up, raised an eyebrow, and pushed his paintcovered glasses to his face, careful not to smear any more of the fresh red paint on his fingers. Like a celebrity tired of autograph seekers, I felt his guard go up. But since we were friends of Felix, he obliged us with a conversation. The whole time we talked, long, arcing lines flowed from his hands, perfectly placed and void of any defect. He told me later that he doesn’t really think about it; he just lets his hands go where they want. After a round of Coronas, he pulled out an old binder filled with magazine articles that showed a much younger, smiling Blaster. He had been at this game for a lifetime. He owned a painting shop, but often travelled in his van, with the bike loaded in the back, to motorcycle events around Europe. He said he was the only full-time pinstriper that he knew of, and was extremely proud that he could make a
“With peace, you live healthier, think clearer, and ride better.” living at it. He also admitted it kept him a very busy man, and while Felix would ride for thousands of miles, The Blaster found his “freedom” in just getting out for a half-hour in the middle of the day. It was his escape, “like being in another world.” I explained the Freedom Jacket and the story behind it. Upon hearing the name “Willie G.”, he stopped. “Willie G. has touched this jacket!?” I told him that Willie G. Davidson had signed the jacket and would see whatever we painted on the jacket after its return to Milwaukee. He pushed the helmet he’d been working on to the side; grabbed the jacket from me; and wasted no time striping a beautiful, intricate design around the peace sign Felix had just finished. He carefully put the jacket on and proclaimed, “Willie G.! We are now brothers!” I held the jacket as Felix’s crude peace sign, surrounded by The Blaster’s intricate pinstriping, dried. Two very different people had unpredictably come together to make a beautiful piece of art. I was thankful, and for the first time since we’d touched down, I felt myself relaxing a bit. We celebrated our accomplished mission by going for a ride. I’d been talking about motorcycles for too long, and I think everyone felt the same way. Felix knew the back hills, so we rumbled out of the Free Biker area and headed out of town. With time and sunlight dwindling, a shop that needed tending, and helmets and bikes that needed pinstriping, we didn’t get a very long ride in, but it’s one I’ll never forget. We snaked our way through the crowds and several small towns, and headed into the Austrian countryside. It was warm enough that we didn’t need a jacket, but The Blaster and Felix both wanted a turn wearing
it, so we stopped halfway and swapped the Freedom Jacket between them. As we passed from village to village, nothing was said, but a lot was communicated. Nods, smiles, and small hand gestures were all we needed. At the end of the ride, we hugged like old friends, though we’d only met hours before. It was sad to see them go, and with only a few hours before I had to head to the airport myself, I started to reflect on the past few days. Landing here, I knew no one, but it didn’t take long to meet some lifelong friends, united through the simple concept of a single leather jacket making a trip around the world. Across the divides of geography, religion, politics, and more, the Freedom Jacket has the power to bond people who share a love of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles, and I feel fortunate to have been able to play a small part in its year-long journey. As I handed the Freedom Jacket off and rolled out of town, I smiled, finished a Red Bull, and raced back to Munich to catch my flight. I had a wedding to attend. To see more stories, photos, and videos about the Freedom Jacket’s global journey, visit h‑d.com/110jacket. Õ
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BRILLI REFLECT R
iding along Lake Temiskaming’s shores, then north into Quebec, makes the Toronto rush-hour madness an illusion in the mirror.
By Vicki Gray
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he fragrance of fresh birch and pine was invigorating! Goldenrod and wild grasses along the road’s shoulder leaped forward with a punch of colour. The road shone. It had just rained, and gauging by the amount of water left behind, the Road King® motorcycle and I had only just avoided a huge soaking.
“Thank you,” I whispered to mom nature for staging this incredible panorama for me to ride. The pavement glided on below me, bending and straightening, over and over. I moved the bike along naturally, constantly. The mighty Road King® motorcycle no longer shone. Water and debris had sprayed up from the road and muddied its chrome. I thought about the Harley-Davidson® motorcycle enthusiasts I’d meet along the way, shaming me for its unkempt appearance. But then I’d explain how, “there was this great road, a wilderness road, “no cages” – just the pure sensation that riding calls upon. The only sound heard is the rumble of the Road King® motorcycle’s twin engine
LIANT CTIONS beating in time. This road from New Liskeard to Elk Lake and back.” They’d imagine – they’d understand. Just yesterday, I watched Toronto disappear in my rear-view mirror with a thrilling sense of adventure, while riding north and around Lake Temiskaming. I covered a good stretch of road – nearly seven hours on the bike – Toronto to Sudbury, and then overnight in North Bay. I can still taste the fresh pancakes I devoured at the Holiday Inn’s breakfast buffet. And to think I almost bypassed them to save time and get to North Bay Cycle. I’d recently met up with Jody and the North Bay race group at a recent Vintage Road Racing Association (VRRA) Mosport venue, and had promised to drop by the shop. We enjoyed a terrific visit filled entirely with moto-talk. And I confirm, the rumours are absolutely true – North Bay folks are as friendly as they say! Leaving North Bay, I rode farther northward on Trans-Canada highway eleven, towards Timmins and Cochrane. It was easy to keep the throttle steady; the road was simple and uninterrupted.
I won’t forget the town of Temagami, and I am happy I took the time to visit the eye-catching old train station on its main street. It’s a restored original, built in 1907. Jenny, who was just finishing up her summer job at its info centre inside, told me Temagami was known for its majestic rare old red and white pines. The pinefinished interior underlined that fact magnificently. Yes, yesterday was perfect, and then riding south on this Elk Lake run, back to New Liskeard for the night, brought me right into that rain I’d had the fortune of avoiding. It hit hard in a teeming downpour. Darn, I wish I’d worn my waterproof gloves! I spied the turn-off leading to Kap-Kig-Iwan Park, and turned in, hoping to get a glimpse of its whitewater rapids from the Englehart River. I was its only visitor; the weather had chased the others away. I too opted not to leave the bike, and turned around with a mental note to revisit on a sunnier day. When I arrived in New Liskeard, the rain had subsided, but the clouds on the horizon said it would return soon. It seemed like a
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iterally thousands of motorcyclists arrive in New Liskeard to enjoy local rides and camaraderie – a full agenda of fun.”
stuffed everything else in the saddlebags of my Harley® motorcycle. Just down the road, I intersected with highway 65 east. Every so often a logging truck, stacked to the brim with logs, passed in the oncoming lane. It scattered small bits of bark through the air as it drove by, along with a delicious potpourri of fresh-cut wood scents. It wasn’t long before I began to observe the “en français” tones filtering their way into the towns’ names and business signs. Soon ahead, there it was, “bonjour!” expressed the sign welcoming my crossover to
good idea to meet Doug and Kim at the lakeside Roosters restaurant by taxi – avoiding an inevitable soaking on the Road King® motorcycle later. Doug and Kim promote, manage, and enthusiastically partake in the yearly “New Liskeard Bikers Reunion”. Throughout our hors d’oeuvres and tasty entrees, they shared accounts of the incredible popularity the event has grown to enjoy over its thirteenyear existence. Literally thousands of motorcyclists arrive in New Liskeard to enjoy local rides and camaraderie – a full agenda of fun. The event is motivated by the goal of raising funds for the Cancer Care Unit at Temiskaming Hospital. I was convinced – this was one event that I had better not miss out on next summer, and marked June 28, 29, and 30 on my calendar. “Up and at ’em!” I heard in the back of my mind. Day three, and northern roads are waiting! I jumped out of bed and peeked outside the window – the foremost task of any motorcyclist’s waking moment – in anticipation of the ride ahead. The Road King® motorcycle stood as a barely visible outline in the surprising and unexpected thick fog. It reminded me of Austria, the Alps; almost every morning was exactly like this. I decided to take my time and allow it to lift before heading out. It would be safer to travel with better visibility. I lounged around my spacious Holiday Inn apartment suite, and then made my way downstairs to consume numerous cups of coffee and – pancakes. The fog lifted; I tied my cargo bag to the passenger seat and
Quebec, just twenty-two kilometres from New Liskeard! I was now rounding the northernmost tip of Lake Témiscaming (its French spelling). I throttled the Harley® bike through the silent, quaint village of Notre-Dame-du-Nord, where highway 65 east intersects the 101 south. It continued across a narrow section of the mighty lake. The scenery from Ontario to Quebec rolled on ahead in a combination of plateaus, escarpments, and the lowlands, with changing elevations and Lake Témiscaming emerging then disappearing between the woods. An hour’s riding passed quickly. I turned right at the Chemin du Vieux Fort to visit the Fort Témiscamingue national historic site. It sits on the northwest corner of the Ottawa River, where it turns from the west to the southeast. I walked toward the entrance and left the Road King® motorcycle “ticking” – the random sounds of its cooling hot parts – in a shaded parking spot. The fort’s shores were edged with small water-smoothed
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white rocks. I walked the grounds, exploring the amusingly re-created scenes of the fort’s olden activities. Tall white tee-pees, a canoe craftsman’s shop, and trader scenes on the hill and shore invited me to imagine myself as an explorer or trader. Well, in fact I was an explorer, only I had arrived by motorcycle, which given the choice, they might have done too. Riding a motorcycle always seems to rouse an appetite; I was ready for lunch. I rode down the road to the La Bannik Recreotouristic camping site nestled at the base of its conifer inhabited mountain. La Bannik restaurant featured a falcon’s eye lake-view. I sat out in its outdoor deck settled among the white birch tree tops. A westward view directed me toward the mid-day sun, which lit up the lake as though blanketed by diamonds. I sipped my iced-tea, imagining it might be glasses of red French wine – if I hadn’t planned to continue riding. The lively French conversation at the bistro table next to me lent the perfect accent to every savoury mouthful of my tomato basil thin crust pizza. I was southward bound along highway 101 south, and still in Quebec. A little less than an hour brought me to the town of Témiscaming. Riding through its main street, I turned into the Train Museum – Musee de la Gare. It might seem like I’m a train enthusiast, with this being the second train station stop during this ride, but it’s just that I can’t resist admiring these uniquely designed historic buildings. The museum had a fine collection of historic remnants on display, detailing its activities since 1927. I enjoyed its authentic wooden benches, all with authentic old baggage at their sides, packed and readied for whatever journey its passenger awaited ahead. My plan was to arrive at the Cedar Gables Inn, Bonfield, before the sun bowed too low in the sky. I’d crossed the Ottawa River and returned to Ontario via 63 south. Rather than stay on 63 through to North Bay, and then East again on 17 to Bonfield, I decided to take highway 533, the Mattawa shortcut. It wouldn’t shave a lot of time off the journey, but it would provide more of an adventure. Two motorcycle fellas I’d met earlier in Temagami had cautioned me about the 533’s poor road surface and stretches of loose gravel. I appreciated the alert, yet I was undeniably sparked with the thought of a challenging ride. I turned onto the 533, accelerating with caution. This wasn’t bad, I thought. It was a sort of concrete mixture of stones and paved patches here and there. And then, it changed, morphing into the rough and bumpy surface they’d described. I reduced my speed and “worked it”, doing my best
to avoid the rough patches. The road narrowed, twisted, then widened and narrowed again for 52 kilometres, and I loved every minute of it! The woods stood close to the road, and at times, its canopies concealed me from any rain that threatened to fall. Its side lanes posted “no trespassing” warnings. They seemed to lead to campsites or logging sites, by way of reddish coloured sand-like soil. I had an itch for an off-road bike, imagining how fun it would be to ride! The logging trucks used the shortcut too, and had no qualms about ploughing by me with force. As it happened, this always seemed to be around the gravel sections of the road – covering me in dust. Yes, I’d take shortcut 533 again, just for the thrill of the ride, but not necessarily to save time. After a quick spin around Bonfield village, and an animated conversation with two bold little five-year-old girls playing near the stop sign, I turned around, realizing this was not where I’d find the Cedar Cables Inn. Back to Trans-Canada Highway 17 it was. I could spy the sign on road 43 Line 3 North to Cedar Gables Lodge, just across the road. Joanne and Darcy Watson were awaiting my arrival, and had set out a side stand plank of wood for parking in the gravel – a nice welcome mat, so to speak. After a delicious homemade veggie stir-fry, a cold beer, and conversations that generally only occur between old friends, I climbed into the high, four-poster bed, and fell fast asleep to the serenade of the Cedar Gables own cricket orchestra. The Road King® motorcycle was loaded and ready for the journey back to Toronto. I bid farewell to the Watsons and their perfect Inn amidst the cedars. I headed down the lane, grasping the handlebars on the Road King® motorcycle with a reluctant tug – like that of a child in its parent’s hand, not wanting to leave the playground. In four hours, I’d be sitting amidst Toronto’s hot, raging, rush-hour traffic. I turned onto highway 17 east, revved the Harley® motorcycle up high and shifted to the next gear. I gazed at the view behind me in its mirrors, this time seeing only the reflections of Lake Temiskaming. It was that view that I’d hold onto for the ride home to the city – for as long as I possibly could. Vicki Gray is the founder of MOTORESS.com, the global online magazine for women motorcyclists. Currently based in Toronto, she’s been an advocate for skilled motorcycling for thirty years, and continues to instruct both for street, racetrack, and dirt riding. Her writings cover a broad range of motorsport topics for either gender. Her trip around Lake Temiskaming was sponsored by the Temiskaming Shores Tourist offices. Õ
“Well, in fact I was an explorer, only I had arrived by motorcycle, which given the choice, they might have done too.”
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GET FIT QUICK
New products from Genuine Harley-Davidson® Motor Accessories add comfort, ease, and custom styling to select motorcycles
ADJUSTABLE TWO-UP LUGGAGE RACK
With telescoping side extensions that allow you to customize its width in seconds, the new Adjustable Two-Up Luggage Rack is the ideal storage platform for a variety of touring gear. Unexpanded, the 12-inch-deep rack measures 12.75 inches wide. Press two buttons, and the slide-out extensions increase the width to 18.75 inches. Rigorously tested and approved by Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the rack features a 30-lb load capacity, uses standard four-point docking hardware, and incorporates internal wiring for accessory light kits. It’s available in Chrome or Gloss Black for most 2009 and later Touring models.
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Open
REACH FOR THE CHIZEL
The new Chizeled Handlebar offers a cutting-edge, mitred look, but with cast tube elbows and removable Bar & Shield plugs that enable easy internal wiring. Tested and approved for durability by the Motor Company, the one-inch diameter bar installs using the stock risers, and is available in Satin Black or Chrome for select 2007 and later Sportster® and Dyna® models.
AIR WING SISSY BAR UPRIGHT
Designed for most 2009 and later Touring models, the two-up Air Wing Sissy Bar Upright matches passenger comfort and custom styling with easy detachability. Integrated internal wiring simplifies adding an LED Light Kit on the upright for increased visibility. It’s available in Chrome or Gloss Black, and uses standard four-point or two-point docking hardware.
ELECTRA GLO™ FAIRING EDGE LIGHT KITS
Add the visible glow of white LED lights to the trim edge of 1996 and later Touring models equipped with a bat-wing fairing. Easy to install, with no cutting or splicing into the wire harness, the low profile, smoked housing conceals the lights when they’re not illuminated.
FOR MORE INFORMATION on these and other Genuine Motor Accessories, go to harleycanada.com or visit your authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson® Retailer. 38
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BEFORE THE BEGINNING ... As we celebrate 110 years of Harley-Davidson® history, we trace the story of the Harley and Davidson families from Victorian Britain to Milwaukee in 1903. The history of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company has been well documented; numerous books exist on the subject, not to mention the colossal amount of information (and indeed, motorcycles and other artifacts) contained within the Harley-Davidson Museum™ in Milwaukee. HOG® Magazine Canada has chronicled
the history of many aspects of HarleyDavidson, but how did the Company come into being in the first place? In this article, we trace the lineage of both the Harley and Davidson families, and we find out more about their journeys from Victorian Britain, across the Atlantic Ocean, to Wisconsin …
1835 William S. Harley’s father, also called William, was born in Littleport, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom.
1858 Alexander “Sandy” Davidson and family left their home just outside of Aberlemno in Angus, Scotland, and immigrated to the United States.
1859 William Harley married Susan Scotting.
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1864
1867
1868
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1872-1882
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William and Susan immigrated to the United States.
William enlisted in the New York Heavy Artillery (a tradition that continues to this day).
One of Sandy’s sons, William C. Davidson, married Margaret McFarlane in Milwaukee.
Susan is believed to have died in 1868 while giving birth to a daughter, Katherine.
After William Harley remarried, William’s new wife Mary (née Smith), gave birth to a son, Joseph. Shortly after, the family relocated from New York to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. William found work as a railway engineer.
Five further children, two boys and three girls, were born; however, only one survived childhood.
William S. Harley, one of the founders of the HarleyDavidson Motor Company, was born on December 29.
1860
1870
1880
JOIN CLAN DAVIDSON ASSOCIATION S
ome of the earliest records about Clan Davidson date from the 14th century, and take their name from David Dubh of Invernahavon in the Badenoch area of the Central Highlands (leading to the name “David-son” for all his descendants). The highland clan’s
FROM LITTLEPORT TO THE BIG CITY…
The Harley family originated in the fenland and farming country
near the English village of Littleport in Cambridgeshire, about 110 kilometres north of London. The name Harley stems from the Middle English, hara ley, and means “clearing in the woods”. In August 1996, Bruce Frost of The Littleport Society received a letter from Kate Harley. This contained a copy of a letter written on April 15, 1893, by Mary Fyson of Victoria Street, Littleport, to her “dear brother and sister”. A great deal of research was done, and eventually it was proved conclusively that Mary Fyson
The Harley-Davidson® motorcycle sculpture in Littleport, UK
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early history is also linked with the legendary Chattan Confederation, a union of 16 Scottish clans linked by blood ties or pledges of mutual defence. Although it is very unlikely that all Davidsons are descended from a common ancestor, the distribution of the surname
Davidson is far from random today. It is amazing how early the presentday distribution of the surname in Scotland appears in the historical record. This suggests an affinity between Davidsons that is greater than what can be explained by descent from a random collection of Davids. The evidence is open to several interpretations, but consistently implies that at least some of the Davidsons, having originated in Badenoch, later migrated from there. The Davidson Clan continues to research and celebrate the wide-ranging ancestry of the many Davidson families who have played their part in Scottish history and in their new homes elsewhere in the world. Many Davidsons have left Scotland over the centuries, taking
(née Harley) was the sister of William Harley, and therefore the aunt of the cofounder of the motorcycle company. The link was thus established between the Motor Company and Littleport. Extensive research demonstrated that the William Harley born in Littleport on May 2, 1835, was indeed the father of William Sylvester Harley. A silver sculpture of a HarleyDavidson® motorcycle now stands in the centre of the village, which was unveiled in 2003 to coincide with the centenary of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company.
1880s
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William S. Harley befriended Arthur Davidson, who lived a few doors down on Ninth Street. The two quickly became close friends.
William C. and Margaret Davidson’s youngest son, Arthur (one of the founders of the Motor Company), was born on February 11.
In the summer of 1895, Edward Joel Pennington, the American inventor and entrepreneur, displayed his new creation “The Motor Cycle” in Milwaukee, just a few blocks from where young Harley and Davidson lived. This may well have provided the inspiration for their eventual success as motorcycle manufacturers
The Harley family moved to Burleigh Avenue on Milwaukee’s north side. William (at age 15) began working at the Meiselbach bicycle factory as a “cycle fitter”. Here, he learned many manufacturing and construction techniques that would soon be put to better use when combined with the internal combustion engine.
At 21 years old, William drew up plans for a small gasoline engine to propel an ordinary pedal bicycle.
The Harley-Davidson Motor Company was formed.
1890
1900
COMMENTS BY JEAN DAVIDSON AND HER SON, JON DAVIDSON OEFLEIN
Jeff Davidson Schrager reminisces about his Davidson heritage in the doorway of Netherton Cottage.
their skills with them, for a wide variety of reasons. Civil war, religious intolerance, land clearance, and economic migration have all been key factors. Today, their descendants can be found all over the world. It was Sandy Davidson of Aberlemno near Angus, grandfather of Arthur, William, and Walter Davidson, who founded Harley-Davidson with William Harley, who immigrated with his family to America in 1858 – the rest, as they say, is history. A wheelwright and carpenter (working with a blacksmith) by trade, he would undoubtedly have been delighted by his descendants’ contribution to the history of engineering. Clan Davidson continues to thrive around the world, and the present Chief of the Davidsons since 1998, Alister Davidson, lives in New Zealand. Branches exist in Northern Ireland, Poland, France, the Netherlands, Canada, Australia, and of course, the U.S. The connection between the Davidsons of Scotland and those
overseas remains strong, and none other than Jeff Davidson Schrager of Fresno, California, great-grandson of HarleyDavidson founder William A. Davidson, was a distinguished guest at the Clan Davidson Association AGM Weekend that was held in Elgin in October 2012. Jeff and his wife also took time to visit Netherton Cottage, the recently restored ancestral home of the Davidson family. Many Davidsons intermarried with other families and clans over the centuries, thus taking on new names. After painstaking effort, many of these families with blood ties to Clan Davidson have been identified, and the Clan Davidson Association is always delighted to welcome a new member of the clan, however distant. If your ancestry includes the names Davie, Davison, Daw, Dawson, Day, Dees, Dean (of Inverness-shire & Moray), Deas, Deason, Dey, Dyson, Kay, Keay, Key, MacDade, MacDaid or McKeddie, you may be related to the founders of Harley-Davidson!
“I love my Scottish heritage just as my father Gordon Davidson did. He had my sisters and I dress up in traditional kilts for pictures. My grandfather, Walter, started this family tradition with his children after he had the kilts, which are made of the Davidson tartan, shipped over from Scotland. I have continued this family tradition and had my children, and more recently my grandchildren, pose in the same two kilts!” - Jean Davidson, granddaughter of Walter Davidson, co-founder of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company
“My mother, Jean Davidson, hooked me on our family history. When you grow up with a lot of people named Davidson, you really don’t think about it much. It wasn’t until I started doing some research for our new book, The Harley-Davidson Family Scrapbook, that I was really blown away by how cool my lineage is! I often wonder if it was chance or destiny that one William Harley ended up being neighbours with my great grandfather, Walter Davidson and his brothers, Arthur and William.” - Jon Davidson Oeflein, Jean Davidson’s son Left: Jon Davidson Oeflein and his sister Lori Right: Jean Davidson and her sister Barbara
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BACK SHOP/
SUMMER 2013
PIT STOP
Curves Ahead. Conquering the Corners An Ounce of Prevention Expect the Unexpected
RALLY RIDES
2013 H.O.G.速 Rallies
30 Reasons to Attend an Event
GEAR
For the Love of Leather
RIDING STORIES Appalachian Wonder: Blue Ridge Parkway Vive la France! The Road of Enlightenment
ARCHIVES
Game On, Again. A history of racing
EXHAUST
Fortunate Son The riding dream is true
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BACK SHOP / SUMMER 2013 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • GEAR • RIDING STORIES • ARCHIVES • EXHAUST
CURVES AHEAD
Advanced Cornering: Learning to love the most challenging stretches of road. By Becky Tillman, MSF RiderCoach Trainer/Harley-Davidson Motor Company
W
e’ve all seen signs like it: a squiggly black arrow pointing upward on a bright yellow diamond. “Curves Ahead,” it suggests. The smaller sign below it tells the rest: “NEXT XX KILOMETRES.” If the number is large, some of us let out a whoop of joy, while others swallow hard and fight feelings of dread. It all depends on your cornering confidence. BEYOND THE BASICS Now that we’ve addressed counter-steering and cornering basics in previous issues of this magazine, the road ahead is clear to talk about some of the more advanced aspects of cornering. Knowing how to safely navigate basic turns and curves is one thing; learning to love the twisties is another. One reason that good cornering technique is so important is that traction demands are higher when you turn. Think of it this way: in any given set of conditions, your tires have a fixed amount of traction available. The more “inputs” you apply, the more traction gets used. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation uses a visual of “traction pie” to help understand this. Total traction is represented by an entire pie – a complete circle – and every time you accelerate, brake, or turn it eats up a slice. (A small slice is also taken away just by riding at a steady speed in a straight line.) When you turn, some of your traction is needed to hold you in the curve and keep the bike’s tires from sliding out from under you. The key is understanding that if you take too many traction slices at once, the pie is consumed. If you add acceleration or braking in a curve, you risk running out of traction or losing of tire grip. The better your cornering technique, the more traction you conserve, and the better you can handle the curves.
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ON THE LINE The first thing to consider when approaching a twisted stretch of road is the condition of the road. Is the pavement in good shape? Is it wet? Is there any debris in the road, such as loose gravel, fallen leaves, dirt, etc.? If it’s cold, could there be any icy spots? Keep in mind that shaded areas dry out more slowly than sunny spots. Also, how are the sightlines? That is, how far can you see around the curve? And is the road a familiar one, or is it unknown? All of these factors can affect how aggressively you can comfortably approach a curve.
Let’s assume that conditions are good, your tires are nicely warmed, the sightlines are clear, there’s no traffic in sight, and your confidence is high. What’s the best way to approach those curves ahead? First, sticking to the basics, adjust your speed accordingly. You’re still using “S.E.E.”, right? Search the road ahead, Evaluate the conditions (we’ve already established that the coast is clear), then Execute by slowing to a steady and appropriate speed – or perhaps maintaining your speed if the curve is gradual. To maximize your available traction, you don’t want to add any unnecessary inputs (braking or accelerating) as you start to turn. Part of your evaluation process is to pick out a “line” through the curve, the path you intend to follow. The most efficient path is to start on the “outside” of the curve (away from the direction of the turn), move smoothly to the inside of the curve as you round the corner, then move back to the outside as you leave the curve. This approach effectively flattens the curve, allowing you to execute the turn at a higher speed. Or, if conditions are less than ideal, it lets you keep the bike more upright to conserve precious traction. Remember, to initiate the turn, think about the countersteering principle: Push forward on the right grip to turn right; push forward on the left grip to turn left. Hold your speed steady as you turn, then roll on the throttle smoothly as you exit. This helps your motorcycle to naturally return to an upright position and regain speed. As always, turn your head in the direction of the turn, and direct your gaze well ahead of the motorcycle, not down at the front tire or at the 12 inches of pavement directly in front of it. If you want to be a little more aggressive still, shift your weight slightly to the inside as you turn. Don’t lean your torso. Shift your butt in the seat a little instead, as it’s important to keep the weight shift low. That thumping sensation you feel in your chest? That’s the thrill of carving a corner the way the pros do it. OTHER TECHNIQUES S-Curves – When one curve is immediately followed by another in the opposite direction, a slightly different approach is required. The same basic principles apply, but you may have to get a bit “creative” when choosing the best line. Enter the first turn the same way (from the “outside”), and look for the straightest line possible through all the curves. Hug the inside of the final turn, then exit in the same way, with a smooth roll of the throttle. Decreasing-Radius Turns – Treat these curves (which get tighter as you continue through them and are often found on exit ramps), much like a standard curve – start on the outside and work your way toward the inside as you go. Gauge your entry speed accordingly, accounting for the increasing tightness, and guard against accelerating too soon. Wait until the end of the curve is in sight, then accelerate smoothly as you exit.
THAT THUMPING SENSATION YOU FEEL IN YOUR CHEST? THAT’S THE THRILL OF CARVING A CORNER THE WAY THE PROS DO IT. Delayed Apex Turns – This technique is useful when you can’t see around the curve as well as you would like – and especially if you suspect that there may be oncoming traffic, road debris, or some other hazard. Approach the turn a little more slowly than you otherwise might, well to the outside, and ride a little “deeper” into the curve before you start to turn. This will give you a chance to turn your head and get a good look at what’s coming. If the path is clear, complete the turn as you otherwise would. If not, you’re now in a good position to ride around the obstacle or slow down further, if needed. BIG BIKES, BIG GRINS One of the great things about Harley-Davidson® motorcycles is how nimble they are for such large and powerful bikes. Racers and sportbike riders sometimes use the term “flickable” to describe how easily a motorcycle flicks from side to side through turns. Harley® motorcycles are built with a low centre of gravity – the V-Twin engine sits low in the frame. This and other innovative design elements make them surprisingly flickable for a big bike. With a little practice and patience, you can easily learn to become one of those riders who celebrate the curves ahead rather than curse them. Becky Tillman is MSF RiderCoach Trainer, Rider’s Edge® Instructor, and Marketing Field Manager, Harley-Davidson Motor Company. How about you? Do you have a topic you’d like to see us address in Pitstop? Let us know by writing to editor@hogcanada.ca.
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BACK SHOP / SUMMER 2013 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • GEAR • RIDING STORIES • ARCHIVES • EXHAUST
AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION
Q
1 PUNCH T-CLOCS Sure, you get free Roadside Assistance as a H.O.G.® member. But, why use it if you don’t have to? Even with all that help on tap, getting stranded is still a colossal pain in the butt. A pain you can avoid with a simple inspection. Yes, we’re talking T-CLOCS – the pre-ride checklist developed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Learn it. Live by it.
What’s worse than a stranded motorcyclist?
A
When that motorcyclist is you.
3
Ways to avoid roadside breakdown.
T TIRES, WHEELS, & BRAKES Carefully inspect tread depth, wear, weathering, bulges, and embedded objects. Check each tire’s air pressure. Check the wheels for loose or bent spokes, or cast wheels for cracks. Check the rims to see if they are out of round. Check the bearings for any free play in the tires. Check the brakes to determine if each brake alone can keep the bike from rolling.
O OIL & OTHER FLUIDS Check fluid levels. Check for leaks.
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C
L
CONTROLS
LIGHTS & ELECTRICS
Inspect the levers and pedals for broken, bent, or cracked parts. Be sure the mounts are tight. Check cables for frays or kinks. Check the hoses for cuts, cracks, leaks, bulges, chafing, or deterioration. Be sure that the hose routing doesn’t interfere with steering. Check the throttle to be sure it moves freely, snaps closed, and doesn’t rev when the handlebar is turned.
Check the battery terminals for clean and tight connections. Check the headlamp for high and low beam operation and aim. Check the tail lamp for operation and activation with both front and rear brake application. Check left and right, front and back turn signals. Adjust the mirrors and make sure that the horn is operational. Check the wiring for pinching or fraying wires, and make sure the wiring doesn’t interfere with steering.
C
S
CHASSIS
STAND
Check the frame for cracks. Check the accessory mounts. Check handlebar movement for full travel. Check the front forks for smooth travel. Check the belt for tension and for embedded objects.
Make sure the spring is working properly. Check for cracks or bends.
Roadside Assistance: Expect the Unexpected 2 READ THE DAMN MANUAL AS ADVICE YOU’VE LIKELY HEARD too many times, it’s right up there with “eat your vegetables”. But, if you don’t do it and you do get stuck, who’s the joke on? A little reading can spare you a lot of headaches. Take key fobs, for instance. Lots of riders lose them on a trip, find themselves unable to disarm
their bike’s security system, and have to call for assistance. But, if they’d cracked the manual and practiced a couple of times at home, they’d already know the sequence of control activation that disarms the system using their five-digit pin code. And, they’d be on their way.
calendar year for one registered Harley-Davidson® motorcycle, with $100 maximum coverage.
HERE’S A LIST OF SOME USEFUL STUFF TO BRING ALONG ON YOUR RIDES TO DEAL WITH ROADSIDE TROUBLE. › › › › › › ›
Water First-aid kit Duct tape Cell phone and charger Utility light Emergency contact numbers List of current medical conditions and medications
› › › › › › › ›
H.O.G.® Touring Handbook Bike registration and insurance info Motorcycle Owner’s Manual Sidestand board Sunscreen and lip balm Bathroom tissue Credit card Emergency cash
› Covers roadside needs, such as:
fuel, oil, fluid, and water delivery; lost (or locked) key assistance; and help extracting your H-D® motorcycle when stuck in a ditch or other inaccessible areas.
› Provides a tow to the nearest
authorized H-D® Retailer or another location of your choice for flat tire or battery assistance.
› You’re responsible for any non-
covered expenses or expenses in excess of $100 per calendar year.
! WORDS TO THE WISE AS MANAGER OF SERVICE MARKETING at HarleyDavidson Motor Company, Chris Tribbey knows maintenance. Better yet, he knows how to avoid the need for it when you’re on the road. First off, he says to use T-CLOCS. It alerts you to problems before they become ride busters. Second, know the most preventable causes of an inoperable motorcycle: flat tire, dead battery, blown drive belt. “A high percentage of flat tires are caused by tires that are too worn or that had an embedded object that caused a slow leak,” Tribbey says. “Careful inspection of both tires before the ride can prevent a flat from happening.” “Similarly, drive belt failure isn’t too common,” he says, “but when it happens it’s usually caused by an embedded object; usually a small rock or prior fraying. A pre-ride inspection would catch those.” “And finally,” he adds, “many battery failures could be prevented by using a battery tender whenever the motorcycle is parked overnight, even during the riding season. There’s a constant draw on the battery, even with the engine off.” If you do have to jump-start your bike, don’t do it from a car or truck, Tribbey advises. They operate at
STANDARD ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE (INCLUDED WITH FULL H.O.G.® MEMBERSHIP): › Provides for one assistance per
3 BRING A “JUST IN CASE” KIT › Swiss-style pocketknife or multi-tool › Bike lock › Tire pressure gauge › Tool kit › Rain gear › Sunglasses › Energy food bar
ONE GREAT THING to travel with is the peace of mind provided by the Standard Roadside Assistance package, included with your full H.O.G.® membership. H.O.G.® members may purchase upgraded coverage as well.
different amperages than your motorcycle, and you could easily end up with more problems than just a dead battery. He also recommends washing your motorcycle regularly. By washing your bike, you’re touching a lot of components on your bike. You’ll easily detect loose shifter levers, leaking gaskets, or loose spokes. Beyond getting things clean, it helps you detect initial component wear. Although jump-starting batteries is not typically recommended, if you do find yourself stranded with a dead battery, follow these tips: Always observe the correct procedure and process to connect and disconnect the positive and negative cables (as indicated in your Owner’s Manual). To avoid the possibility of sparks, don’t connect the negative jumper cable to the terminal of the discharged battery. Make sure both vehicles have the same battery voltage when jump-starting. Connecting vehicles with different system voltages can result in vehicle damage. If a car or truck is used as the booster battery, make sure the vehicle is not running. High-output charging systems from larger vehicles can damage the electrical components on the motorcycle.
DELUXE ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE ($19.95/YEAR):Extends coverage to two H-D® motorcycles registered to an active full member. Also offers unlimited services per year, with all covered towing/roadside costs paid in full.
ULTRA ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE ($29.95/YEAR): Adds emergency
travel reimbursement when the H-D® motorcycle is disabled due to a collision or the mechanical breakdown of a warranty-covered component.
ULTRA PLUS ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE ($49.95/YEAR):
Gives ultra-level coverage for up to two H-D® motorcycles and three personal vehicles, including automobiles and light-duty trucks. Finally, while some breakdowns are impossible to prevent, an Extended Service Plan offers peace of mind by protecting you from costly repairs. See your local Retailer for Extended Service Plan information. Visit members.hog.com, or call Road America toll free at 1-866-209-8270 for more detailed information on roadside assistance options.
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BACK SHOP / SUMMER 2013 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • GEAR • RIDING STORIES • ARCHIVES • EXHAUST
WILD IN THE HAT The year 2013 will not only mark the 110th Anniversary of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company and the 30th Anniversary of the Harley Owners Group®, it will also mark the 9th Alberta Provincial H.O.G.® Rally.
By Ralph Carson
SILVER ’N CHROME IN DURHAM REGION The 25th Anniversary Ontario Provincial H.O.G.® Rally will take over the streets of Durham Region June 27-29, 2013. By Vern Wilson
Located just east of Toronto, Durham Region encompasses the cities of Oshawa, Whitby, Pickering, and more. In conjunction with Mackie HarleyDavidson®, the Durham Chapter has been busy planning one of the largest Ontario H.O.G.® rallies of all time. A quick ten-minute ride will get you off Highway 401 and into the beautiful countryside, riding along amazing back roads. The agenda opens with the opening ceremonies and meet and greet party, followed by a walking tour of the city of Whitby. The next day will showcase various Poker Runs and Observation Rides, as well as a visit to Mackie HarleyDavidson® who will host the 48
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Show 'N Shine event. The evening ends with a Rock n' Bowl, billiards, and darts. The final day starts off with a breakfast, which will be followed by a parade, and then on-and-off motorcycle games. The closing ceremonies and banquet will take place at the General Motors Centre in Oshawa. The Durham Chapter, Durham Region, and the Mackie Harley-Davidson® team look forward to seeing all H.O.G.® members making the trek to the silver anniversary of the 25th Ontario Provincial H.O.G.® Rally. We know you’ll have a spectacular time. For complete details and a schedule of events, go to ontariohogrally2013.com.
Harley-Davidson® of Medicine Hat and the Medicine Hat Chapter of Alberta are proud to host the 9th Alberta Provincial H.O.G.® Rally on July 4-6, 2013, and to welcome all members and enthusiasts from all over the world. Bring your camera as you ride through the South Saskatchewan River Valley, the picturesque Cypress Hills, and the surrounding areas. Gear up to enjoy the amazing landmarks, some of which were established in 1882, and all the other attractions in and around the “Hat”. Throughout the Rally, the Medicine Hat Lodge Resort will be hosting the registration area, and providing shuttle service to
neighbouring amenities. The cabaret and tattoo contest are two of the activities planned for Friday night. Harley-Davidson® of Medicine Hat will host a Friday and a Saturday morning breakfast. Also, the Rally rides will start and end at the Retailer. Saturday morning will be the group family photo at the World’s Largest Teepee, with the parade to follow. The afternoon brings the Show 'N Shine and bike games to the parking lot of the Medicine Hat Mall. Live local music will soothe the ears of the Rally participants. Check out our website at albertahogrally.com for more information.
QUEBEC PROVINCIAL H.O.G.® RALLY - ALL INVITED! The 17th Quebec Provincial H.O.G.® Rally will be held July 11-13, 2013, in the beautiful Outaouais region, in the city of Gatineau. By Michel-André Roy Members of the organizing committee have been planning and putting together the event since December 2011, when the Harley-Davidson® de L’Outaouais Retailer and the Outaouais Chapter agreed to host the 2013 Rally. Harley-Davidson® de L’Outaouais, located near the Ramada Plaza Le Manoir du Casino (host hotel), will be the main site for the Rally, during which participants will get the chance to celebrate their shared passion, along with the 30th Anniversary of the Harley Owners Group®. The Rally
organizing committee has planned various activities, including a variety of rides, plus a Poker Run, Show ’N Shine, Chapter Challenge, skills competitions, and Retailers’ dinner. Not to be missed is the party on Saturday, July 13, at the Canadian Museum of Civilization! The program includes our banquet and closing ceremonies, not to mention a show featuring Body Groove – Ribsteak Ron. On July 12 and 13, a free shuttle service will be offered between the main accommodations sites and the main activities site. Start planning now to jump on your bikes in July and come visit Gatineau! The complete Rally schedule can be found at rallyehoggatineau2013.ca.
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BACK SHOP / SUMMER 2013 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • GEAR • RIDING STORIES • ARCHIVES • EXHAUST
A SHAGGIN’ GOOD TIME
Get ready for the time of your life. This summer will mark the fourth occasion that the Newfoundland & Labrador Chapter will host the 21st Atlantic Regional H.O.G.® Rally. By Dale Williams The previous rallies were a huge success, with members attending from as far away as California, Florida, Alaska, and most provinces and territories in Canada. We are anticipating a great turnout – attendance has been steadily increasing as word spreads about the excellent time had by all on the rock. The island of Newfoundland covers 111,390 square kilometres – an area that rivals the combined size of the other three Atlantic provinces: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. With the addition of the vast territory of Labrador, the province covers a total area of 405,212 square kilometres, with more than 29,000 kilometres of unspoiled coastline. So it goes without saying, there’s plenty of breathing room. Given that the mainland portion of Newfoundland and Labrador is an island, those
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riding require getting here by ferry, from North Sydney, Nova Scotia, to either Port aux Basques or Argentia. Port aux Basques is on the province’s west coast and you have a 10-hour, 900-kilometre ride to St. John’s on the east coast. Newfoundland and Labrador is known for its friendly people. Real and genuine, warm and welcoming, fun-loving and funny to the core; the people here are also known for their natural creativity, unique language, and knack for storytelling. We are home to some of the country’s finest artists. Around here, music is part of the natural and cultural landscape. So, get your riding gear on and head to the 21st Atlantic Regional H.O.G.® Rally for “A Shaggin’ Good Time”. The schedule and planned events can be found on our website at newfoundlandhog.com.
RIDE IN THE VALLEY Pristine lakes, valley views, and awe-inspiring beauty are everywhere the eyes wander! Mountains, orchards, vineyards, beaches, and romantic city lights await.
By Lisa Mirabent The 13th Western Regional H.O.G.® Rally takes place July 25-27, 2013, in Kelowna, British Columbia. The “Rally in the Valley” boasts three actionfilled days of thrilling rides, poker runs, bike games, parties, live music, and much more! The Okanagan Chapter is going all-out to showcase the gorgeous scenery the valley has to offer, with guided rides on Friday and Saturday, in addition to daily poker runs. There is even an early bird ride for those who arrive on Thursday when registration begins. Saturday’s poker run is dedicated to the peace officers of Kelowna. The Okanagan offers a riding experience that is unsurpassed anywhere on the continent, because of the sheer number of its amazing routes, consistently good road surface conditions, and the comfortable, moderate climate. In a 170-kilometre stretch, you can cruise beside lush orchards and the sparkling lake, climb up to rocky slopes through slim canyons, and then ride onto forested plateaus
before descending into a desert micro-climate. How’s that for exhilaration? Entertainment will be non-stop throughout the weekend, featuring incredibly talented musicians, such as the band “Colt 45”. Bring your dancing boots and kick up your heels, you’ll want to hit the blacktop as we party under the stars. Saturday night’s banquet kicks off with Herb Dixon, a favourite local comedian and sound specialist. You are certain to “LOL” during his famous motorcycle impression. The party continues with “Blues Brother Too” and their Show Band. Relax, dance, and enjoy this high-energy, big band, song and dance tribute act to the original Blues Brothers – “Jake and Elwood” – on Saturday evening. The Okanagan Chapter of the Harley Owners Group® invites all to come and share our amazing scenic highways this summer, and to enjoy a weekend packed with fun and entertainment. Register today at okanaganhog.com.
Š2013 H-D or its Affiliates. H-D, Harley, Harley-Davidson and the Bar & Shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC.
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30 2013 EVENT PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • GEAR • RIDING STORIES • ARCHIVES • EXHAUST
REASONS TO ATTEND A
2013 is a big year for Harley-Davidson Motor Company and H.O.G.®, with amazing opportunities for you to make it your most memorable year ever. Big or small, near or far, provincial or regional rallies, global anniversary events, or even your local Chapter events, there’s no bad reason to get out and ride this year. Here are 30 great ones – just to get your juices flowing.
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To show Milwaukee and the world that no one celebrates like H.O.G.®
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TO DO AS ROMANS DO … IN ROME.
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To reach new H.O.G.® Mileage Program award levels.
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TO ENTER YOUR FIRST SHOW ‘N SHINE. 52
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To rack up some ABCs of Touring points at provincial and regional H.O.G.® rallies.
Because you’re going to need a new rear tire eventually.
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To broaden your horizons, test your limits, and blow your mind.
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To see if even H.O.G.® rallies are bigger in Quebec (Oui).
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To compete in the H.O.G.® Riding Skills Competition in Milwaukee.
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TO DISCOVER AN AMAZING NEW LOCAL BAND.
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Because nothing beats natural air conditioning!
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To see what the Northern Lights looks like in Nunavut’s big sky.
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To help smash last year’s total of 12,551,499 kms on the HarleyDavidson® World Ride.
To hear the sound of 10,000 Harley® motorcycles parading through the streets of downtown Milwaukee.
To dip your boot in the Atlantic, Pacific, Arctic Ocean’s, Hudson Bay, a Great Lake and the Saint Lawrence River.
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TO SHOW OFF YOUR PATCH AND PIN COLLECTION – OR START ONE.
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To ride on the badlands of Dinosaur Valley.
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To try out the Best Western Ride Rewards benefit for seven consecutive nights ... in seven different provinces and/or territories.
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BECAUSE SOMETIMES PEER PRESSURE IS A GOOD THING.
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To check Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon off your bucket list.
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To complete the Trans Canadian Quest or the Trans Canadian GOLD certification and get your name down in history.
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TWO WORDS: BIKER GAMES.
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To fill up on mussels in Prince Edward Island, poutine in Quebec, maple syrup in Ontario, sushi in British Columbia, or BBQ in Alberta.
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To pick up an exclusive Canadian H.O.G.® 30th Anniversary commemorative pin at a H.O.G.® regional/ provincial Rally.
To help Canada (“Alexander Graham Bell”) and USA (“Elisha Gray”) settle their dispute over the invention of the telephone.
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So you can tell your friends you rode all the way to London (Ontario, that is).
To get lost somewhere and then find yourself in more ways than one.
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Because places in Newfoundland with names like Ass Hill, Blow Me Down, Conception Bay, and Dildo are pretty funny.
TO SEE ALL OF MILWAUKEE ROLL OUT THE RED CARPET.
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Do you really need a reason? hog® magazine canada
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BACK SHOP / SUMMER 2013 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • GEAR • RIDING STORIES • ARCHIVES • EXHAUST
FOR THE LOVE OF LEATHER There is a leather jacket to suit the taste of every Harley-Davidson® motorcycle rider. Your only challenge is choosing which one is for you. And, with some all-new beauties, that job just got harder.
FOR HER
The leather jacket is a design icon. From its humble beginnings as a functional item to something that sets trends while protecting the wearer, the leather jacket has now become a cultural icon in its own right, symbolizing rebellion and a whole generation’s excesses. From the military jackets of the 1940s, through to the iconic rockers of the early 1950s and on, no other garment has been so inextricably linked to a pastime.
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1 LEGACY LEATHER BIKER JACKET Elegant, mid-weight cowhide leather Polyester twill lining with body armour pockets Embossed graphics featured on the front hem and across the shoulders.
While the leather jacket has experienced a renaissance of late in general fashion circles, it has always been en vogue for bikers and Harley® motorcycle riders in particular. Here are the latest favourites from the Harley-Davidson® MotorClothes® collection. And remember, with the HarleyDavidson Motor Company celebrating more than 100 years of history in manufacturing safety apparel for their racers and riders, you know that you’re getting the very best in protection and history. So try on a Harley-Davidson® leather jacket today!
2 JUNEAU LEATHER JACKET Lightweight cowhide leather 100% poly-twill lining with body armour pockets. Beautifully embroidered appliqué graphics adorn the back, front, and sleeves.
3 EMBELLISHED HARLEY® LEATHER JACKET Lightweight cowhide leather Poly-satin lining with body armour pockets. The embroidered appliqué graphics are embellished with rhinestones on both the sleeve and back.
FOR HIM
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2
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VICTORY LANE LEATHER JACKET
TOP WING LEATHER JACKET
REFLECTIVE ROAD WARRIOR 3-IN-1
RUMBLE LEATHER JACKET
Beautifully distressed, mid-weight cowhide leather. Polyester twill lining with body armour pockets located at the elbows and shoulders.
Stylish, heavyweight cowhide leather. Polyester cotton lining with body armour pockets located at the elbows and shoulders Plus a removable vest liner for year-round comfort.
Mid-weight cowhide leather Poly-mesh lining with body armour pockets and a removable hooded cotton vest. 3M Scotchlite Reflective Material appliqué graphics adorn the front and back. A handy waterproof pocket to protect your phone.
Rugged, mid-weight cowhide leather. Polyester mesh lining with body armour pockets located at the elbows and shoulders. 3M Scotchlite Reflective Material keeps you visible.
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BACK SHOP / SUMMER 2013 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • GEAR • RIDING STORIES • ARCHIVES • EXHAUST
APPALACHIAN WONDER
Awe-inspiring scenic eye candy of the Blue Ridge Parkway is something to behold. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a highway that by today’s standards has no right to exist. It has no commercial value, its construction costs per kilometre must have been at least double a better situated road and it connects no towns of any importance.
By Tristram Lett and Susan Hill
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Its existence was simply a result of make work projects instituted during the New Deal by Roosevelt in the 1930’s to get America working again. Thank heaven for that, because motorcyclists and motorists were given a wonderful, enduring, touring highway whose main virtue was – and still remains – its stunning scenery, but with a lot of other interesting things thrown in. Imagine a highway which bans any commercial traffic, has no hotels, restaurants or commercial signage of any kind, consists of only two lanes and has a maximum speed of 70 kilometres per hour! Furthermore, it is engineered to have constant arc curves, well banked turns and excellent up and down transitions. With over 120 overlooks there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the phenomenal Appalachian scenery. This describes the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP). My partner and I drove the BRP from bottom to top in June 2012. This is our short chronicle. We started by checking in at the Harley® rider friendly Best Western River Escape Inn and Suites at Dillsboro, North
Carolina, situated on the bank of the charming Tuckasegee River. From here it is a short ride to the entrance of the BRP. We made this our base camp for two nights to get acquainted with the area. On day one we visited Smoky Mountain Harley– Davidson® in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This Retailer did not disappoint! Super friendly and helpful, they answered all our questions about the area, gave us tips, maps and ideas. This Retailer has two affiliates and three outposts in the general area of the Smoky Mountains, so if we were to have any problems, Harley-Davidson® Retailer was always close by to assist. Many riders want to experience the Tail of the Dragon which is not far from Pigeon Forge and also to view the Smokies from their highest point at Clingman’s Dome (2,024 metres). Visiting these two areas will consume most of your day, but they are worth it. However, we’ll warn you, the Tail of the Dragon is not for the faint of heart. We got an early start on the second morning to the Cherokee Indian Reservation to begin our trip along the 754 kilometre long BRP. Once on
it we kept gushing over the intercom to each other. It was much more compact than we had imagined, but the pavement was excellent. Starting at 8:00 a.m., we could not believe that we did not see another vehicle for an hour! We had the road to ourselves. And this lack of traffic was one of the signatures of the whole trip. Perhaps this results from the very few access roads to the Parkway making it a very inconvenient route for going anywhere. You are only on the BRP to enjoy the magnificence of the Appalachian Mountains. Encountering such little traffic is a good thing because the
driver needs to pay attention to the road or he would be off it in a flash. While it is an excellently constructed roadway in very good repair, it is difficult to drive and look at the scenery simultaneously. Sure, you are aware of it peripherally but there are so many turns, tunnels (26 total), climbs and drops that you are constantly shifting through the gears, braking and accelerating. Only on the northern half does the driver get a break. But the builders knew this and provided endless numbers of overlooks for drivers to pull off, take a break and drink in the beauty of the mountains.
THE TAIL OF THE DRAGON IS NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART ... THERE ARE SO MANY TURNS, TUNNELS (26 TOTAL), CLIMBS AND DROPS THAT YOU ARE CONSTANTLY SHIFTING THROUGH THE GEARS, BRAKING AND ACCELERATING. hog® magazine canada
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BACK SHOP / SUMMER 2013 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • GEAR • RIDING STORIES • ARCHIVES • EXHAUST
The eye candy was incredible. There are also resource centres operated by several agencies that service the Parkway. These are very informative in providing the history, ecology, flora and fauna of local sections of the BRP and are worth taking in. The lack of access roads means that some planning is in order because there is only one gas station on the BRP near the northern end. You need to know where you are going to exit for fuel, so checking out the distances between exits in advance is recommended. The same is true for food, refreshments and accommodations. The Parkway runs from elevations of around 609 metres to over 1,828 metres. During our trip, the weather in the valleys was hot-over 35 degrees C but once we passed through the 762 metre level it started to cool wonderfully. At the higher elevations the temperature was a comfortable 25 degrees. The first day we travelled up to Blowing Rock, North Carolina. located at an elevation of 1,068 metres. One of the few towns enroute immediately off the BRP, it had been recommended as a stopping point by friends who had driven the Parkway the previous year. Historical and quaint are descriptors which very aptly describe this highly enjoyable community. We had reserved a room for two nights at the superb Gideon Hill Inn. With its magnificent views in all directions, unique rooms and a gourmet dining room, it was an excellent spot to decamp for a couple of nights. One of the owners is a chef
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ENDLESS NUMBERS OF OVERLOOKS FOR DRIVERS TO PULL OFF, TAKE A BREAK AND DRINK IN THE BEAUTY OF THE MOUNTAINS. who also has a restaurant in the main part of town. We sampled both eateries over the two days which we must say were a real treat. The town itself was great place to poke around and there is a lot to see in the area. One example is the relaxing hike we took in the magnificent Moses Cone Memorial Park which is accessible through the originally built horse carriage trails which are still in use. The next day we were off on the final leg of our trip on the BRP to Waynesboro, Virginia, the northern terminus of the parkway. As we travelled northwards the landscape began to change with fewer mountain vistas and more fields and pastures. It provided a completely different feeling. We marvelled at the number of different kinds of split rail fences bordering the roadway.
Unlike the North Carolina portion with its 24 tunnels, there is only one tunnel in Virginia. This is a good indicator that the terrain is much less rugged making for a more leisurely drive. Our friends who had travelled the BRP last year had cautioned us to regularly check the rear tire. Were they ever right! When we got to our B&B in Waynesboro, we had very little tread left. The mountainous terrain is exceptionally hard on a fully loaded bike’s rear tire. Luckily we were detouring to Richmond, Virginia, to visit a friend before continuing on to the Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park, so we were able to get a replacement quickly at Steel Horse Harley-Davidson®. This detour gave us an opportunity to visit Colonial Williamsburg and President Jefferson’s
country home, Monticello both of which are must sees for history buffs. Our trip on the BRP was part of a much larger excursion which took us through 5,000 kilometre of Canadian and American countryside. The only observation we would make in retrospect is that we would allocate more than three days to travel the Parkway because there is such a variety of things to do and see other than drive. Near the end of our trip, one of the greatest thrills was our visit to the HarleyDavidson factory in York, Pennsylvania, where our Ultra Classic Electra Glide was born. The BRP and its followup, the Skyline Trail in the Shenandoah Valley, led us right to its door. Another must for a Harley® bike owner!
VIVE LA FRANCE!
The Alsace wine route in Northern France on a Harley® motorcycle was a trip for the ages. By Marco Buist
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WE DECIDED TO FOLLOW THE WINE ROUTE ON A HARLEY® MOTORCYCLE, SO WE WOULDN’T MISS OUR BIKES TOO MUCH ... hog® magazine canada
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Last summer, my girlfriend and I wanted to spend our vacation far from home with our respective children. Marie wanted to see Europe, and I wanted to see Northern France. I knew Alsace was a magnificent region. So we chose this destination, but staying in hotels was out of the question. With six of us, it would have been too expensive. We’d heard of house swapping through some friends, so we decided to give it a try. This also allows you to live in the community and better appreciate the regional culture. So we swapped houses with a couple from Alsace, France, for
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our vacation. They lived at our house while we lived at theirs. Their house was located in the tiny village of Sermersheim, population 800. Alsace, occupied by Germany during Hitler’s reign, still showed signs of that time. Many villages have German names. The Alsatians truly suffered through this period, and the former concentration camp, Struthof, is evidence of those hard times. Sermersheim is located between Strasbourg and Colmar, close to the wine route. Most interesting to us was the Harley-Davidson® Retailer 15 minutes from the house. We
decided to follow the wine route on a Harley® motorcycle, so we wouldn’t miss our bikes too much while on vacation ... We were warmly greeted by Alexandre at the Center of Alsace Harley-Davidson® Retailer in Fegersheim, who let us have a gorgeous 2012 Road King® motorcycle. As H.O.G.® members, we got a 10% discount on the rental. Then we were off on those beautiful country roads, following the wine route. Our first stop was the Barr tourist centre, to get a local map. No way were we going to use a GPS; we were on vacation
and wanted to do it the oldfashioned way, with a map, and with the possibility of getting lost almost guaranteed! Because I’m an expert at that! We rode through many villages with “simple” names such as Scherwiller, Kintzheim, Riquewihr, Niedermorschwihr, and Eguisheim. We read and re-read them, but we just couldn’t memorize all these names. As a result, we got lost constantly. Lucky for us, Alsatians are friendly and helpful people. “No worries” as they like to say. Every time we asked for directions, we always got the same answer: “It’s easy;
WE WERE ON VACATION AND WANTED TO DO IT THE OLD-FASHIONED WAY, WITH A MAP, AND WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF GETTING LOST ALMOST GUARANTEED!
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just keep going straight.” The problem is that the road is far from “straight”. It’s all curves and roundabouts. It was a great ride. We went through several fortified villages dating back to the XIVth century. Narrow roads, magnificent villages, a green countryside with many castles spread out before our eyes along our route. Alsace also offers great regional food. Their famous “flammekueche”, or flame cake, not a healthy choice (lardon, cream, and cheese), but very tasty. And the wine – wow! We were able to get excellent wine for five dollars a bottle. Alsace is definitely a region of France to discover. The people are friendly and the beauty of the villages is outstanding. This was a gorgeous trip that will remain etched in our memory for a long time.
THE ROAD OF ENLIGHTENMENT A nine-year riding veteran faces each adventure head on, one trip at a time. By Manon Kellman My new life started in October 2004, at which time my husband was trying to persuade me to get a motorcycle. I was not very keen on the idea and kept telling him no, until the day he called me from Kitchener Harley-Davidson® (on his birthday!) and asked again. I finally gave in, and this is how my adventure began. I am a person who needs to be in control, such as always driving the car wherever we go. Therefore, sitting behind him on a Harley-Davidson® Sportster® motorcycle was not for me … nor for him, due to my constant nagging (i.e. you’re leaning too much, your going too fast, etc.). So there I was at age 41, taking a threeday motorcycle riders’ course. I finished the course on the Sunday, and picked up my brand-new Harley-Davidson® Sportster® motorcycle the following Tuesday! Wow, this machine was big, and so much higher compared to the bikes we trained on … I’m only 5 feet 2 inches tall. I left the Retail Store with my husband following me, and within 30 minutes, I had dropped the new bike and found myself on the ground alongside it! This was not to be my last fall, but I never gave up that first year, even after breaking my collarbone on one of those falls (at which time I learned that it is better to let the bike fall, as it can be fixed quickly, while my body requires more time to heal). That first winter,
I got the bike custom fitted for me: custom seat, lowered front forks and rear suspension, added some chrome, a new airbrush paint scheme, and my engine performance was increased to 1,200 cc. I felt like I was now ready to take on the world. I am starting my ninth year of riding, and have put a little over 171,000 km on my Harley‑Davidson® Sportster® motorcycle ... all without a windshield! The engine has just been Factory rebuilt in 2012, and I’m now looking forward to another 170,000km. I’m averaging over 20,000km each season. I often ride with either of the two H.O.G.® Chapters I belong to (Milton and Kitchener), while my most memorable trips have been while accompanied by my husband, who now rides a Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® motorcycle. Some of our trips required
having our bikes shipped to Las Vegas, Nevada, or Phoenix, Arizona; and from there, we would tour various places for seven days: New Mexico, Santa Fe, the Grand Canyon, San Francisco, and Laughlin, Nevada, for their annual Rally, the Laughlin River Run. For the past four years, we have toured the U.S. and Canada: Daytona Beach, Myrtle Beach, Key West, Prince Edward Island, Moncton, and many others, including many of the national and provincial H.O.G.® Rallies across Canada and state rallies across the U.S. One of my most memorable trips was riding down to the H.O.G.® Rally in Kamloops, British Columbia. The scenery, the wind in my hair, butterflies, grasshoppers, and so on – it was like nothing I’d ever seen before. At one point, I was riding with my scarf shielding my face and a big paper towel in my side pocket
to clean the remnants of bugs from my riding glasses! Many people have asked me on numerous occasions why I don’t get myself a bigger bike with a windshield? My response is, and will always be until the day I can no longer ride or when I’m too weak to fight off the wind, that the lack of a windshield keeps me in shape (arms, stomach, and neck muscles). Besides, I think Sportster® bikes look better without a windshield. Also, my bike is a direct reflection of who I am; of my distinct personality. I would not be able to see it in someone else’s hands. I have sat on other bikes, but I find them too high, too wide, or too heavy. And they are not my Scorpio – yes, I’ve named my bike, and proudly airbrushed its name onto it. It’s also taken me three seasons to be able to perform a u-turn with it. Now I own it and can do practically any manoeuvre with it! I have learned and accomplished so much in these past nine years, made numerous friends, volunteered as Road Captain at my local H.O.G.® Chapters, and have visited some of the most beautiful places in North America; all of which would not have been possible without my Sportster® motorcycle! My advice to all riders, especially women, is to set aside your fears, take on the adventure, and make the most of your life.
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Š2013 H-D or its Affiliates. H-D, Harley, HARLEY-DAVIDSON, AND THE Bar & Shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC.
H.O.G.® yearly packages are sent upon renewal. If you have a July 2013 expiry date for instance, you can renew in January 2013 to receive your package at the beginning of the season. Your membership will still expire in July 20XX (depending on your renewal term), 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, please call Customer Service at toll-free 1-866-209-8270. To call for service, please dial 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 H.O.G.® 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
Duarte Pita Communications & Events Coordinator
Yvan Lejeune Membership Services 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
BACK SHOP / SUMMER 2013 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • GEAR • RIDING STORIES • ARCHIVES • EXHAUST
GAME ON, AGAIN
How a small town in Indiana put motorcycle racing back on the map after “The War to End All Wars”.
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for 125 miles. Following mechanical problems, however, Walker yielded the lead to his HarleyDavidson® teammate Leslie “Red” Parkhurst and Teddy Carroll of Indian, the H-D® team’s main competitor. Parkhurst went on to win with a time of 3 hours, 6 minutes, and just over 33 seconds. Second and third places went to HarleyDavidson® racers Ralph Hepburn and Otto Walker. But, even more important than the result was the attendance. An estimated 15,000 spectators watched the race, many riding on motorcycles from as far as the West Coast. More than 700 hotel rooms were filled, even as residents opened their homes to fans. Motorcycling and Bicycling magazine reported that “every street of the city” buzzed with motorcycles. Among the attendees were founders Walter Davidson and William S. Harley.The success of the 1919 race led to an expanded 1920 event. The hill climb race from the previous year was repeated, and Civil War veterans of the local National Soldiers’ Home were given rides in sidecars on the race course. Red Parkhurst was among the riders, and cardboard tags that read “I have donated my sidecar for the Old Soldiers’ outing – have you?” spread like wildfire throughout the weekend. The most historic moment of 1920 came after the race. Earlier in the day, Ray Weishaar of the Harley‑Davidson® team had adopted a runt piglet from a local farm, and he kept it close by as he wandered the paddocks. Weishaar won the race with a blistering average speed of more than 71 miles per hour – a new record for the 200mile event. Weishaar included his new friend, “Johnny”, in a postrace photo op, prompting journalists to start using the word “hog” in reference to Harley-Davidson® motorcycles and their riders. Those 1919 and 1920 races were about more than just a fun weekend of speed. World War I had decimated the civilian rider market, leading several motorcycle manufacturers to lock their doors permanently. Retailers throughout the industry had closed their doors, while others scraped by with used bike sales, accessories, and service work. Those races – especially that first one – were about a rebirth of motorcycling, a triumphant return of the sport so many still loved. To quote one journalist in 1919, “The game is on again”.
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Original trophies and photos from the legendary Marion, Indiana, races can be seen in the Harley‑Davidson Museum™ in Milwaukee. The famous Ray Weishaar photo can also be purchased on www.harley-davidsonimages.com.
Photograph courtesy of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company Archives. Copyright H-D.
THE RACERS WOULD COME - BUT WOULD ANYONE SHOW UP TO WATCH?
World War I put a lot of things on hold; not just in the motorcycle industry, but in the world at large. When the war ended in 1918, no one was sure how, when, or even if things in the motorcycle world would get rolling again. So, in 1919, when the Motorcycle and Allied Trades Association (predecessor to the AMA) organized a large-scale road race in Marion, Indiana, over Labour Day weekend, it was a pretty big risk. The major manufacturers that had racing operations agreed to compete: Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Indian, and ExcelsiorHenderson. War-time gas shortages had halted racing activity, and civilian ridership had declined due to both limited motorcycle production and the sheer number of men in service. The racers would come – but would anyone show up to watch? A five-mile track was laid out on country roads around Marion, designed for a 40-lap, 200-mile race. Intersections were slightly banked and right-angle turns were rounded to allow for higher speeds. These were dirt roads, of course, so the big problem was dust. In practice laps, near-misses with mailboxes and other riders caused problems. The solution was to oil the track and surface the backstretch with crushed limestone. However, this caused a new concern: rocks spewing from rear tires that damaged both the riders and bikes running behind. On race day, former WWI aviator Otto Walker – wearing a helmet from a captured German aviator – dominated early and led
THE GARAGE MARKETPLACE Canada’s 911 Ride To advertise in The Garage, contact: info@freshairpublishing.ca Advertising details at: hogmagazinecanada.ca
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WIN A H.O.G. 30th ANNIVERSARY GIFT PACKAGE ®
The Harley Owners Group® is celebrating its 30th anniversary and we want to SEE how you are commemorating this milestone. Enter your highresolution image (min. 300 dpi), to editor@hogcanada.ca by August 1st, 2013 for a chance to win a H.O.G.® 30th Anniversary Gift Package.
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BACK SHOP / SUMMER 2013 PIT STOP • RALLY RIDES • GEAR • RIDING STORIES • ARCHIVES • EXHAUST
FORTUNATE SON The dream is true; riding is so much more. By Michael Kanaroski
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or as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted a HarleyDavidson® motorcycle: the sound, the scene, the sense of freedom associated with it. So it wasn’t too much of a surprise when my dad and I went to pick up my first dirt bike when I was 12 years old. I had saved up the $300 it cost for a Yamaha DT80 bike from a paper route, and I was fascinated by the idea of “ripping it” up on two wheels. The shocks were in need of repair, and the tank was dented; the thing would barely start. But I was itching to learn how to ride a bike, and Dad happened to be a great teacher. Despite falling a lot, with many bumps, bruises, and the occasional burn, I wouldn’t
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give up. Bikes were cool. How could they not be? All over the movies, magazines, and media there were always cool guys and attractive women. Dad had a bike and now I did too. My introduction to the Harley® scene came in the early 90s at a H.O.G.® Rally in Panorama, British Columbia, when I was still a teenager. It was awesome. Dad and I rode up together and camped out on the ski hill as it was early summer. I remember having to wear sunglasses to prevent retinal damage from the miles of glistening chrome. We did the scenic rides and a poker run, and we participated in the bike games (even won a plaque too). I knew I was hooked, especially on the games. Incidentally, it
was also the first time I met a member of the Ladies of Harley™ group. She was 24 and her name was Samantha. She had enough of a wild side about her to kick-start my heart. There was no turning back; the movies and magazines were right. I bought my first Harley® bike five years ago, a 2007 H-D® FXSTC motorcycle. I’d read about them, gone to all the bike exhibitions and the demo rides, and loved movies like “Easy Rider” and “Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man”, so I knew I wanted a chopper. Needless to say, I think my dad was almost more excited than I was when I finally bought a Harley® motorcycle. Through these past years,
I have not only found out how amazing my Harley® family is, but how wonderful all the people are in every local Chapter. There isn’t a more passionate following of friendly people attached to a machine than the people who own a Harley® motorcycle. Whether it’s in South America, Africa, Europe, Russia, Asia, Australia, or right here at home, the camaraderie of people and love for these machines are staggering. I’ve even been lucky enough to join a barbeque event held by a local Chapter in Tavarnelle, Tuscany, Italy. They treated me just like family, with the same amazing hospitality that our Chapter prides itself on. Let me say this: the single most amazing part of owning a Harley® bike is riding with my dad. There are families, and then there is Family. I’m fortunate to belong to both. Not many people get to ride across cities, provinces, states, or countries with their best friend. Whether it be competing in bike games; sharing motels, bad coffee, and even worse food; polishing the bikes; taking early morning rides; getting caught in hail storms; or talking about bikes and great roads while sitting back and enjoying a cool drink after a long, hard day of riding, I get to do this with my dad. We’ve always been close, Dad and I, but a pair of HarleyDavidson® motorcycles brought us closer. Thanks Dad, for teaching me how to ride with you.
UNITED WE CELEBRATE Celebrate 110 years of Harley-Davidson with a 110TH Anniversary Living the Legend™ Rivet at the Harley-Davidson Museum.® Stainless steel on a wall of iron, the rivet commemorates the enduring bond that unites all riders. Create yours today at h-dmuseum.com/110rivet.
LIVING THE LEGEND™ RIVET 110TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION AVAILABLE IN 2013 ONLY
Order by June 15, 2013 to guarantee installation for the Harley-Davidson 110TH Anniversary Celebration in Milwaukee. ©H-D 2013. All rights reserved. Harley-Davidson, H-D, Harley, Harley-Davidson Museum and the Bar and Shield are among the registered trademarks of H-D U.S.A., LLC
Let’s celebrate 110-years of Harley-Davidson® and 30-years of H.O.G.® on a 2-day tour to show the world why we ride.
Join the celebration. Join the ride. H-D.com/worldride
©2013 H-D OR ITS AFFILIATES. H-D, HARLEY, HARLEY-DAVIDSON AND THE BAR & SHIELD LOGO ARE AMONG THE TRADEMARKS OF H-D U.S.A., LLC.
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: H.O.G.® Canada 830 Edgeley Blvd. Concord, Ontario L4K 4X1 Tel: 1-800-668-4836 Fax: 905-660-3372 members.hog.com
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