HOG Magazine Canada by Fresh Air Productions

$6.99 can winter 2012

for the harley-davidson enthusiast since 1916 ®

canadian edition

THE RALLY ISSUE RIDIN’ THE ROCK: A ROAD TRIP THROUGH NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR / RIDING STORIES: YOUNG HAWKS, THE NEXT GENERATION HIGH OCTANE OILS: DAVID UHL PAINTS HISTORY OF HARLEY-DAVIDSON / STURGIS STANDOUTS: 2012 HARLEY® CVO™ MOTORCYCLES

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FPO

Twin Cam 103™ engine standard on ALL 2012 Touring, Softail® and select Dyna® bikes.*

Introducing the New 2012 Dyna® SwitcbackTM Motorcycle. Built with the capabilities of two bikes in one Detachable locking saddlebags and windshield let you switch from touring the open road to cruising the streets and back again in under 60 seconds. Whatever mood you’re in, you can decide which ride’s right for you. 2

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Departments 6

EDITOR’S NOTE Racking Up Miles, and Memories.

INTAKE Letters from members.

BACKSTAGE Hot Flashes: The hot oven at the HarleyDavidson® facility in York, Pennsylvania.

11 12

FRONT SHOP

A New Generation: Polly Taylor talks about her first road trip abroad and encouraging younger riders.

Backstory Hunting for Adventure: David Uhl’s “Rough Rider” was inspired by a 1916 issue of The Enthusiast®.

Million Mile Surprise: Frank Boorn is not the first — but may be the fastest — to reach the million-mile mark in the H.O.G.® Mileage Program.

Gallery A bit of everything from our readers.

Rally Rides H.O.G.® Rally rides from coast to coast.

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BACK SHOP

Enthusiasts Work Hard, Play Harder

Riding Stories You Oughta See Utah ... and Pass the Salt!

Young Hawks — The next generation of motorcycle riders.

Exhaust The Tao of Dave Grohl.

News Updates from around the globe and the 2012 motorcycle shows.

Pitstop Group Dynamics: Make sure “more” stays “merry” with proper group-riding practices.

On the Cover: Riders enjoy the majestic scenery during the 2011 Atlantic Regional H.O.G.® Rally in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Photograph by Konstantin Egorov Photography

THIS RUGGED FLASHLIGHT CAN CHANGE FOCUS FROM A NARROW BEAM TO A WIDE FLOOD OF LIGHT

↓

Left: Michael Lichter; Opposite: Konstantin Egorov Photography

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CONTENTS /

DECEMBER 2011

Features 20

RIDIN’ THE ROCK A band of riders recount a memorable road trip through the majestic Newfoundland and Labrador landscapes. By Brian Doucette. STURGIS STANDOUTS Three compliments, two thumbs-up gestures, all in 10 minutes... the Harley® CVOTM 2012 motorcycle is a standout. By John Steinberg.

HIGH OCTANE OILS Artist David Uhl paints a compelling picture of the history of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company. By Mike Zimmerman.

Left: Michael Lichter; Opposite: Konstantin Egorov Photography

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EDITOR’S NOTE / DECEMBER 2011 “A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP”

RACKING UP MILES, AND MEMORIES

“Slogans rarely convince the unconvinced. However, they do rally the troops already on your side”

The weather did not hold out as well as we hoped for the fall riding season, but I have to give a big thumbs-up to all of you who put as many kilometres on your bikes as possible, regardless of what Mother Nature had in store. The amount of mileage that is being claimed at our office via the Harley Owners Group® Mileage Program is more than impressive, and the forms still keep coming in. Like they say, “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”, and that certainly captures the essence of participating in the Mileage Program, which is easy and free. Talk to your local Retailer or log on to members.hog.com for more information on how to get started. Just to prove the point, read the amazing story of Frank Boorn (see “Million Mile Surprise,” page 42), who recently became one of an elite handful of H.O.G.® members to achieve the incredible milestone of having ridden more than a million lifetime miles! Keep in mind that you do not have to be a hardcore long-distance rider to reap the rewards of the program. Participation is as much about the journey as it is about the actual destination, or the achievement of any single mileage milestone. Speaking of journeying to a destination, it was great to have so many of you take advantage of the chance to ride to the numerous events across Canada, from east to west, with all of our regional and provincial rallies, plus the National Rally (see “Rally Wrap-Up” on page 44). The respective organizing committees deserve a big pat on the back for putting together creative, wonderful, and yet completely different experiences for everyone to enjoy! Who isn’t always up for a new experience! We are excited to help you get the most out of your Harley-Davidson® and H.O.G.® experience, and invite you to check out our new and improved look and feel for the Canadian H.O.G.® eNewsletter and the digital HOG® Magazine Canada. It features new content, more access, and the same great stories! Being a Canadian member definitely has its own rewards! This special website area has been created for our H.O.G.® members to give you a sneak peek behind the curtain on upcoming events, promos, and activities. It will be updated on a regular basis to make sure that you are always kept in the loop! There are also opportunities for you to share your thoughts and ideas on stories, submit upcoming riding events and activities, and give feedback on what you would like to see more of. To sign up, go to hogmagazinecanada.ca. Ride safe and have fun! GINA MCNEIL

Manager, Enthusiast Services

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

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

WWW.BKMEDIA.CA

HOG® MAGAZINE CANADA IS PUBLISHED BY THE HARLEY OWNERS GROUP® CANADA

SEND US YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS TO: EDITOR@HOGCANADA.CA

GORDIE BOWLES PRODUCTION LISA THÉ DESIGN DON CAMERON COPY EDITOR MARK KRISTOFIC SALES ALANA RICHTER SALES COORDINATOR Please direct any advertising inquiries to MARK@BKMEDIA.CA

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

Canada or for posting on members.hog.com, without consideration or compensation of any kind whatsoever. You further hereby irrevocably release and waive any right, claim, or cause of action you may have against Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Harley-Davidson Owners Group® of Canada Ltd., and their affiliates, for compensation, libel, or invasion of privacy, or any other liability whatsoever. Harley Owners Group® reserves the right to edit stories for content, length and clarity. With the purchase of any new Harley-Davidson® model from an authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson® Retailer, you will receive a free, full one-year membership in H.O.G.® Always ride with a helmet. Ride defensively. Distributed exclusively in Canada by Deeley HarleyDavidson® Canada, Richmond and Concord. Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada is a proud sponsor of Muscular Dystrophy Canada. To find your local authorized Canadian Harley-Davidson® Retailer, visit www.harleycanada.com today. ©2011 H-D. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.

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INTAKE / DECEMBER 2011 LETTERS FROM OUR MEMBERS.

Editor’s Pick

FREEDOM FIGHTERS: DENVER RETAILER SAVES THE DAY

I would like to share with you and your readers the trials and tribulations of my recent journey to Denver, Colorado, and the Harley-Davidson® Retailer who came to my rescue. We set off with our route planned and ourselves well prepared on June 29, 2011, at 5:30 a.m. The plan was to ride from Toronto, Ontario, to Iowa, and stay overnight. We wanted to start out again with plans for another overnight stay, and reach Denver, Colorado, on the third morning. The first part of the ride went well, and we left Iowa at 6:00 a.m. on the second day. About two hours into the ride, we came across construction over a recently-repaired bridge. As I came to where the bridge ends and the surface of the highway joins, the bike took a serious dip. The air suspension bottomed out, and then returned to the max ride. Following that was a horrific bang and the glorious sound of my Harley® motorcycle in full throat with no exhaust. We pulled over and discovered that the manifold had split where the pipes meet. The bike had flexed and snapped the pipe. It was the original exhaust. My 2000 H-D® Ultra Classic® Electra Glide® motorcycle, which I have owned since 2002, had taken a serious blow. We managed to tie the right-side exhaust pipe to the passenger footrest with plastic ties. Further down the highway, we came across a Harley® Retailer at exit 177, and although they tried to accommodate me and fix the bike, they unfortunately couldn’t do the repairs or rig anything temporary, as it required a manifold, but it wasn’t for the lack of trying. Our only option was to drive straight through to Denver, Colorado. When we arrived in Denver, with the assistance of my H.O.G.® Touring Handbook, we found the Freedom Harley-Davidson® of Denver Retailer, at 5:57 p.m., with three minutes until closing. The Service Advisors took the time to listen to my plight (and the bike), and came up with a plan. They located a manifold within their group, and when that was solved and the paperwork was drawn up I started to relax. I called the next day and was told to drop in around noon. I was elated, and picked the bike up at 11:36 a.m. July 2. What a team you have representing Harley-Davidson Motor Company at Freedom Harley-Davidson® of Denver. Once again, my thanks to Freedom Harley-Davidson® for making my stay in Denver enjoyable, and something I will always remember. — Don Alland

Longer Roads Thanks to Glen Abbott for the “Ghosts of the Open Road” article (Fall 2011 Legacy issue, page 34). Both the region in which Glen rode and which he described, as well as the larger region, encompassing parts of Nevada and California, are indeed absolutely wonderful riding. I have never experienced more compelling rides than those that I have done in and around those regions, thundering along lightly

travelled roads on a big Hog, with the glorious, mountainous, desert panorama surrounding me. —H.J. Whitaker, via email I can’t believe that you had a story about NV 50 and the Loneliest Road (“Ghosts of the Open Road”, fall 2011) – and you didn’t include a picture of the “shoe tree”. It’s just one of those things — waaay out in the middle of nowhere — that simply needs to be seen in person. — Kevin K. Hull, 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. hog® magazine canada

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BACKSTAGE /

DECEMBER 2011

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HOT FLASHES

Front fenders move through the IR Oven at the York Vehicle Operations Harley-Davidson® facility in York, Pennsylvania, where high-intensity infrared lights “flash” the freshly painted surfaces. Flashing is a quick way to set wet paint enough to apply the next layer of paint colour or a clear coat, and part of a new process that is now used on all of York’s painted motorcycle parts. Prior to the adoption of the IR Oven, each layer of paint had to be completely dry before the next layer could be applied. Moving to a wet-on-wet paint process allows the Factory to speed up the curing process for painted parts without sacrificing the multiple rich layers of paint that Harley-Davidson® motorcycles are known for. It’s just one small part of a transformation to a more streamline manufacturing process at York in an ongoing overhaul of the Company’s oldest vehicle assembly facility. To view the tour schedules and plan a visit to the York facility, go online to www. h-d.com/york.

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FRONT SHOP/

DECEMBER 2011

NEWS

Updates from around the globe and the 2012 motorcycle shows

BACKSTORY

Hunting for Adventure: David Uhl’s “Rough Rider” was inspired by a 1916 issue of The Enthusiast™.

GALLERY

Konstantin Egorov Photography

A bit of everything from HOG ® Magazine Canada readers

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FRONT SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 NEWS ƌ BACKSTORY ƌ GALLERY

GLOBAL NEWS Spain

British Columbia

BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA Artist Lends Giant Motorcycles Merritt’s Great Canadian Bike Rally attracted motorcycles of all shapes and sizes. Perhaps the most noticeable were Ken Glasgow’s three giant Harley-Davidson® motorcycle sculptures. The largest — three times the size of an actual bike — was situated next to the main stage area, outside of City Furniture. It weighs 10,000 pounds, and took the Lytton native three years to build. “Every piece has to be hand-built and I’ve got very primitive tools,” says Glasgow, “I got my first bike at 16, and now I build them because I like them.” Glasgow’s original vision was to build the front end of a Harley® motorcycle and make it look like it had run through a tree; however, his family and friends suggested he build a complete model. Born and raised in Lytton — “I was too scared to leave and now I’m too old to try” — his home has become a tourist attraction of sorts. When his big bikes are not on tour they are displayed at his property. UNITED STATES TM H-D Museum Honours 9/11 In recognition of the 10th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States,

China

Milwaukee

the Harley-Davidson MuseumTM displayed thousands of flags that spell the word “Remember” on the museum grounds for the days surrounding the anniversary. Of the 2,902 American flags displayed, 2,792 represented the people who lost their lives on 9/11, while 110 represented the Wisconsin soldiers who have lost their lives in the war on terror since it began in 2003. An additional 110 Wisconsin flags were placed next to the American flags that were meant to honour the Wisconsin soldiers. SPAIN Spanish Police Crackdown on Scam A Harley-Davidson® motorcycle is the dream of many a middle-aged, leather-loving, motorbike enthusiasts, and Spaniards, especially, are in love with the U.S. machine. But now, thousands of the bikes are being ordered off the road or running the risk of being impounded by the police. Up to 5,000 Harley® motorcycles could be brought to a halt following the detection of a scam used by

importers. Harley® motorcycles that were bought in the U.S. and shipped to Spain by some importers were reportedly then sent to privately owned MOT centres that were willing to turn a blind eye to the legal requirements for vehicles in Spain. The police crackdown has infuriated Harley® motorcycle owners, who claim that the Company is trying to stop second-hand imports in order to sell more motorbikes through its official Retailers. Harley-Davidson Motor Company has vigorously denied any such involvement. “The police have detected that some MOT centres are giving imported second-hand Harley® motorcycles a bill of health when they have not been adapted to Spanish norms,” said a Company spokesman. “It has nothing to do with us. We understand that some people like to get bikes from the U.S. because they think of them as more authentic … There is no problem with imported second-hand bikes as a whole, only with illegal ones.” CHINA ® Harley-Davidson in China Encounters Motorcycle Barriers According to the state-affiliated

Society of Automotive Engineers of China, about 100 cities in China, including Beijing and Shanghai, have restrictions that include banning two-wheel vehicles from elevated highways and major thoroughfares to curb noise and thefts. These regulations have stymied the growth of the Harley-Davidson® Brand in the world’s most populous nation. “Regulations are a pain,” said Shanghai businessman, Calvin Chen, who owns a $50,000 Harley® V-Rod Muscle® motorcycle. “There are many roads you can’t ride on, and the rules differ from place to place.” Harley-Davidson Motor Company is lobbying the Chinese and American governments to ease these laws in an effort to increase sales by as much as 40 percent a year through 2016, says Sean Jiang, the managing director for China. The biggest U.S. motorcycle manufacturer is quadrupling its number of Retail Stores and supporting riding clubs to capitalize on a luxury-car market that J.D. Power & Associates claims will grow by about 35 percent this year. —By Jade Swartzberg, Merritt Herald

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2012 MOTORCYCLE SHOWS Come to Canada’s premiere motorcycle shows in your area to see the new Harley-Davidson® booth. The popular women’s night is back on Friday at the Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, City of Quebec, and Montreal shows. The Vancouver and Moncton shows will host their women’s night on Saturday. Interactive Harley-Davidson® Fit Shop demonstrations will be held in the the HarleyDavidson® booth throughout the whole weekend at all of the shows, and, of course, the much anticipated 2012 HarleyDavidson® motorcycles will be on display. Come in for a chance to win a $500 Harley-Davidson® gift card, and much more!

Toronto Motorcycle Show Metro Toronto Convention Centre, south building, Toronto, Ontario From December 9 to 11, 2011

NEW PRODUCT»

Calgary Motorcycle Show BMO Centre, Stampede Park, Calgary, Alberta From January 6 to 8, 2012 Edmonton Motorcycle Show Northlands, Expo Centre, Edmonton, Alberta From January 13 to 15, 2012 Vancouver Motorcycle Show Tradex, Abbotsford, British Columbia From January 19 to 22, 2012 Quebec City Motorcycle Show Centre de Foires, Quebec City, Quebec From February 3 to 5, 2012 Moncton Motorcycle Show Coliseum Complex, Moncton, New Brunswick From February 10 to 12, 2012 Montreal Motorcycle Show Palais des congrès, Montreal, Quebec From February 24 to 26, 2012

LED FLASHLIGHT FROM H-D The new Tactical LED Flashlight with Safety Strobe from HarleyDavidson® Genuine Motor Accessories is compact and a great companion for any ride. This rugged flashlight features three settings — high, low and strobe — plus an adjustable lens to change focus from a narrow beam to a wide flood of light. The high beam reaches 140 yards at 100 lumens, while the power-conserving low beam will last 50 continuous hours. The safety strobe attracts attention from a distance. Simple push-button changes modes quickly, and the durable LED lamps will never burn out.

HARLEY® ON SCREEN Harley-Davidson® Electra Glide® motorcycle in Galactica, 1980 Harley-Davidson® Shovelhead motorcycle in Hell Ride, 2008 Harley-Davidson® Heritage Softail™ Classic in Armageddon, 1998 Harley-Davidson® Road King® Classic motorcycle in The Chicago Code, 2011

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FRONT SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 NEWS ƌ BACKSTORY ƌ GALLERY

HUNTING FOR ADVENTURE

While India is still an emerging market for the Harley-Davidson Motor Company today, this painting by David Uhl (the artist featured in this issue, pages 30-35) suggests that at least one Harley-Davidson® motorcycle found its way there nearly a century earlier. This recent work, entitled “Rough Rider”, was inspired by photos that Uhl found in a 1916 issue of The Enthusiast™. While the presidential-looking figure astride the elephant is an artistic embellishment, the scene remains true to the spirit of the man, the time, and the motorcycle. “I was always quite fascinated by the colourful character named ‘Teddy’,” Uhl explains. “He seemed like someone I would have loved to meet — a man who stood for many things that seem so relevant, even in today’s world.”

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

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FRONT SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 NEWS ƌ BACKSTORY ƌ GALLERY

MEMBERS GALLERY

Leo Burosch — Roslin, Ontario

Anton Shouli and his three-year-old son, Adrian, on his 2009 Dyna® Low Rider® bike in Calgary, Alberta

Three-year-old Taylor Mackey (photographed by Frank Gosse) — Milton, Ontario

Corn and Apple Parade —Gil St. Hilaire Morden, Manitoba

Elliot Poisson — Trois-Rivières, Québec

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Luc Durand — Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Anisa Coolen (photographed by mother Keri) — Calgary, Alberta

Scott and Laurie Maybee, Ontario — Whiteface Mountain, New York

Paul and Jane Jackson — Uxbridge, Ontario

Greg Paterson and The Stanley Cup — Chaffey’s Lock

Deb & Bruce Jewell at Death Valley — Essex, Ontario

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FRONT SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 NEWS ƌ BACKSTORY ƌ GALLERY

MEMBERS GALLERY

Lorraine Engemann — St. Catherines, Ontario

Brian Doucette (from Stillwater Lake, Nova Scotia) riding in Newfoundland.

Kevin Steeves — Kancamagus Highway

Test Our Metal Demo truck and mini me demo truck

Gord Peters (with grandson)

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Les Fisher — Smokey Mountain National Park, Tennessee

Bob Bond, Confederation Bridge — Prince Edward Island

Robbie Rosenstand’s best friend, Ratchet — Vancouver, British Columbia

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RIDINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; the ROCK Riders: Chris Noftall, Greg Melanson, Paulette Doucette, and Brian Doucette

A band of riders recount a memorable road trip through the majestic Newfoundland and Labrador landscapes. By Brian Doucette

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JUST LIKE MANY ROAD TRIPS, our big ride to Newfoundland and Labrador was first conceived in the dark depths of a cold and dreary Canadian winter ... January 15, 2010, to be exact. Thoughts of wideopen roads, diverse landscapes, sea breezes, and warm sunny summer days ahead made the winter blahs a little more bearable, at least for a couple of hours each week when we put the plans together for this ride of a lifetime. We took a certain degree of pleasure in planning the destination stops, accommodations, ferries, etc. Where to go? What to do? First things first: brew up some hot coffee, clear the table and spread out a large-scale map. Destinations were tossed about freely, and included L’Anse aux Meadows, St. John’s, Fogo Island, Western Brook Pond, Rocky Harbour, Gros Morne National Park, St. Anthony, and Lark Harbour, among others. Eating codfish and seeing icebergs were also high on the “to do” list. With the winter still ahead of us, and even longer before our crossing of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, we wanted to be sure that we would squeeze out every bit of enjoyment that we could during the ride and while on the Rock. Of course, everyone we talked to about going to NL had lots of advice, which consistently included, “you’re gonna love it!”, and “watch for the moose!” During our winter get-togethers, we were blessed with expert local knowledge, as Chris was from Grand Falls-Windsor, and had 22

also lived on Fogo Island for three years (and was she ever anxious to get back!). In the end, and with only one week available, we settled on three main destination areas: Gros Morne, Grand FallsWindsor, and Fogo Island. Our road trip initially included Jean and Dar, Chris and Greg, and Paulette and Brian, with all three couples doubled up on Ultra Classic® Electra Glide® motorcycles. Unfortunately, a late and unexpected medical treatment prevented Jean and Dar from joining. Such is life — you have to roll with it — and we all agreed not to postpone, since the plans and reservations were already in place. The time had finally come. After a wet ride up from Halifax, Nova Scotia, and an overnight ferry crossing, we were finally on the Rock. My words cannot do justice to the beauty, ruggedness, and diversity of the landscapes that we had the pleasure of enjoying. Riding into and throughout Gros Morne National Park was a breathtaking and surreal experience. The mountains were majestic, the Gulf of St. Lawrence was calming, and the well maintained winding roads were as good as it gets for riding anywhere. Rocky Harbour is an inviting town with a bountiful fish market, which is sure to satisfy anyone looking for the fresh catch of the day. Any trip to Newfoundland and Labrador has to include an excursion to Western Brook Pond. This is your first glimpse of the towering rock cliffs that encase this land-locked fjord, and it will

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“MY WORDS CANNOT DO JUSTICE TO THE BEAUTY, RUGGEDNESS, AND DIVERSITY OF THE LANDSCAPES THAT WE HAD THE PLEASURE OF ENJOYING.”

make your heart skip a beat. Plan a few hours here to take advantage of the boat tour that cruises leisurely along the 16-km length of this pristine and remarkably unique “pond” (as they say here). At Western Brook Pond, there was much talk of icebergs off of St. Anthony, and although it was approximately 400 kilometres away to the North, Paulette and I simply had to go. You have to take advantage of opportunities when you can. Our overnight diversion to the tip of the western peninsula was a humbling experience in every way possible. While riding there and back, distance and time seemed to stand still. We were fortunate enough to see several massive icebergs off of Goose Cove, and then after a short ride further north, got to stand in the footprints of Leif Ericson and the other Vikings who settled L’Anse aux Meadows a thousand years ago. Simply amazing! While we were up North, Greg and Chris explored the natural beauty in and around Gros Morne National Park, including postcard perfect places such as the East Arm, Woody Point, Trout River, the Arches Provincial Park, and the shipwreck remains of the SS Ethie, not to mention passing by grazing moose along the way. Once back together, we were off to Grand Falls-Windsor in central NL to visit Chris’ parents. They are the most gracious hosts you will ever find … anywhere. Margaret and Gordon raised their children in Grand Falls-Windsor, and Gordon spent his working life at what was once the town’s main livelihood — the mill, which is now closed

and boarded up. Gordon retired a few years ago; however, Margaret continues to prepare and cook delicious traditional Newfoundland and Labrador delicacies, such as partridgeberry and baked-apple jams. They now enjoy the rewards of a good life, travelling and spending time with loved ones. Enjoying their hospitality was the highlight of the trip for Paulette, a true spud-islander! Early the next morning, and with great anticipation, we were off to catch the ferry to Fogo Island. Memories and childhood ditties (such as I’se The B’y That Builds The Boat) were heard all along the way. If you could ride into a postcard, Fogo Island is definitely what it would be like. Every turn and incline in the road brought another spectacular vista into view. The towns of Stag Harbour, Seldom, Tilting, Joe Batt’s Arm, and Fogo were each vivid images of traditional down east fishing villages. Piers, boats, grazing caribou, colourful houses, and friendly people were everywhere. A brief conversation with one gentleman on the pier in Joe Batt’s Arm revealed that he had just retired, and had spent his career as a teacher and principal at the various schools on Fogo Island. He pointed out across the cove to the house where he was born and raised, and slightly to the right, to the house where he now lived. What was he doing there? Waiting for three of his childhood buddies to show up to go mackerel fishing — five per man, 15 per boat max. This man had life figured out! hog® magazine canada

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“WHILE RIDING THERE AND BACK, DISTANCE AND TIME SEEMED TO STAND STILL.”

Fogo Island was full of wonder, not the least of which was Brimstone Head, a huge bluff reaching outward into the North Atlantic and upwards, 300 feet above sea level. Brimstone Head is widely known as one of the “Four Corners of the World” as proclaimed by the Flat Earth Society. Regardless of whether or not you are a believer, the view from the summit of Brimstone Head outwards or in toward the idyllic town of Fogo and its protected harbour are forever etched in your memory in the same way as other natural and man-made wonders are, such as the Grand Canyon or the pyramids. It was difficult to leave Fogo Island the next day; however, the 24

planned ride around Musgrave Harbour, Wesleyville, Hare Bay, and Gambo loop was enough incentive to make the early 9 o’clock ferry crossing back to Farewell on time. After another incredible day of riding, filled with panoramic seascapes, ocean breezes, and town after picturesque town, we arrived back in Grand Falls-Windsor to have the pleasure to be with Margaret and Gordon again, as they celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary. The next day was our last day on the Rock, but it included more riding on our way back to Port aux Basques. We kept the last day as an opportunity to explore Corner Brook and westward along the

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Humber Arm, the Bay of Islands, past Blow Me Down Provincial Park, and on into Lark Harbour, which was yet another quaint and colourful fishing village. Chris and Greg remained on this peninsula and discovered Bottle Cove, and further along, an absolutely picturesque protected inlet at the end of Little Port Road. At the same time, Paulette and I ventured further south, towards Stephenville. Again, with the day waning, we wanted to see Stephenville and as much of the Port au Port peninsula and its French shore as we could. We left much of that road untravelled, but vowed to return as we headed south towards our rendezvous with Chris and Greg at the gas station and diner on the TCH, where we had breakfast a short week before on our first day on the Rock. Heading back to Port aux Basques to arrive before nightfall, we were filled with incredible wonderment and inspiration from the

natural beauty of the diverse landscape and the genuineness of the people that we experienced during our short week in Newfoundland. We missed St. John’s and the eastern regions of the province on this trip, but there will be another road trip for sure in our future. We found ourselves wondering when the next Atlantic Regional or Canadian National H.O.G.® Rally would be held in Newfoundland. Sounds like part of a future plan. If you have ever considered a trip to Newfoundland and Labrador, but have not made it there yet, it is without a doubt one of the most incredible places on the planet. Riding there is fantastic and the approximately 4,000 km we put on each of the bikes was virtually pothole-less and was memorable at every turn. When you do get the opportunity to go to Newfoundland and Labrador, “you’re gonna love it!”, and oh yeah, “watch for the moose!” hog® magazine canada

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S I G R STUOUTS D N A T S ™ C VO 2012

BY JOHN

PHOTOGRA SANDBERG

PHS BY SHO

G OTERS IMA

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D AGGER MO B G IN M O O B channel 0 watts per REET GLIDE 速

m with 10 audio syste t amplified High-outpu kers ea sp ch in 7lids with 5 x Saddlebag gauges on s ce fa D backlight t, Charcoal TM blem and LE Diamond Cu me CVO em ro ch th wi ole insert Custom cons ount rome flush-m tank with ch el fu ll Side-fi p ca sh-mount uge and flu LED fuel ga er e graphics; d iPod hold an antom Flam no na od n ond with Ph 8GB Apple iP Red/Typhoo Black Diam by e/ at Ru Sl d rk an ; es: Da aphics lour schem m Flame gr to an Ph th Available co ck wi tique Gunsto cs Hot Citrus/An ame graphi Phantom Fl th wi n oo ar M

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I was awash in the crowd of a few hundred-thousand motorcyclists who were hell-bent on seeing the spectacle of Sturgis, South Dakota (or being the spectacle!); a few days in the melting pot of motorcycle mayhem have a way of dulling your visual interest. The $60,000 choppers start to look the same, hard-bodies in chaps don’t get a second look, and even the otherwise beautiful black Harley® motorcycles blend into a sea of sameness on Main Street, unless you’re on a 2012 Harley-Davidson® CVOTM Road Glide® Custom motorcycle and you’re making a few slow passes for the photographer to capture. In those 10 minutes, I received three compliments on the bike, two separate thumbs-up gestures, and a solid understanding of why a couple-thousand people spend upwards of 30 large to roll on a new Harley® CVOTM motorcycle. CVOTM is short for Custom Vehicle OperationsTM, a 13-year program within the Harley-Davidson Motor Company that designs and builds limited-production, Factory-custom motorcycles that emphasize more: as in more power, more chrome, more colour, and more … everything. They come loaded with existing components from the H-D® Genuine Motor Accessories line, and they debut several new items. Each is given a lavish, unique paint scheme that is complemented by rich details, like coordinated stitching on the seat and special CVOTM covers/inserts. Add to the mix the fact that they’re built in such limited quantity, and you have a recipe for exclusivity that defines the CVOTM experience. The four CVOTM models for 2012 include the all-new CVOTM Road Glide® Custom motorcycle and the reprised trio of CVOTM Street Glide®, CVOTM Ultra Classic® Electra Glide®, and CVOTM Softail® Convertible 28

SOFT TAIL® CONVERTIBLE TWO-WAY TRANSFORMER MODEL Detachable fairing, detachable/lockable leather saddlebags Garmin® 660 GPS with integrated MP3 player New lower wind deflectors Stinger Custom 18-inch wheels with matching sprocket and rotors Custom leather seat with removable pillion/upright Available colour schemes: Crimson Red Sunglo with Scarlet Crystal graphics; Abyss Blue with Catacomb graphics; and Satin Pewter with Catacomb graphics Optional distressed brown leather on seat and saddlebags

motorcycles. Each boasts new paint and seriously sweet new swag, including an even greater emphasis on booming sound for 2012. In the more power department, the 2012 CVOTM models roar onto the road with up to 122 ft.-lbs. of torque via a Screamin’ Eagle® Twin Cam 110TM engine: the largest production engine in Motor Company history and a source of infinite satisfaction when twisting the throttle. It’s made just civil enough thanks to a 6-Speed Cruise DriveTM transmission, Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection, and electronic throttle control. New to the CVOTM line this season, the Road Glide® Custom motorcycle delivers the distinctive shark-nose, frame-mounted fairing, with a slammed profile that made a noticeable impact on those walking down Main street in Sturgis. Had I been looking for even more attention, I would have tapped into its high-output, amplified Harman/Kardon® Advanced Audio System, with its 100 watts per channel (for 200 watts total) flowing through 5 x 7-inch

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ROAD GLIDE® CUSTOM SHARK ALERT MODEL

ULTRA CLASSIC® ELECTRA GLIDE® KING OF THE ROAD MODEL

High-output amplified audio system with 100 watts per channel

Mirror Chrome Chisel Custom wheels

Custom solo Touring seat with matching detachable pillion

Boom! Audio High-performance speakers, Amplifier, and Bass Booster Ports

Rumble Collection controls

Navigation Interface Module

Contrast Chrome Agitator Custom wheels and front disc

Rumble Collection controls

Low-profile fuel tank console

Available colour schemes: Electric Orange/Black Diamond with Big City Lights graphics; Crystal Citron/Diamond Dust with Big City Lights graphics; and Wicked Sapphire/Stardust Silver with Big City Lights graphics

Available colour schemes: White Gold Pearl and Starfire Black with Real Smoke graphics; Maple Metallic and Vivid Black with Real Smoke graphics; and Candy Cobalt and Twilight Blue with Real Smoke graphics

fairing-mounted speakers and 2-inch dash speakers. Like the audio offerings on the Touring CVOTM models, this system sets a new standard in clarity and volume. An included 8GB Apple iPod® nano rests in the saddlebag and connects to the system via a special interface. A new, custom solo Touring seat (with matching detachable pillion) features colour-matched stitching, adding subtle style points, and long-haul comfort to the CVOTM Road Glide® Custom motorcycle. Other new items include the new smoked “Windsplitter” windscreen, the “Heavy Breather” air intake with a black anodized cover, a colour-matched low-profile fuel tank console with illuminated CVOTM graphic, and a black internally-wired handlebar. Sturgis is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, which varies from coniferous mountains to arid Badlands and awe-inspiring buttes. Cruising past the massive Bear Butte just northeast of town, the new CVOTM Street Glide® motorcycle illustrated its own varied abilities. On the one hand, it’s a full-on Touring rig: sporting extended saddlebags, fairing lowers, and ABS. On the other hand, the smoked, low-profile 7-inch windscreen atop its bat-wing fairing (matched by a custom low-profile solo leather Touring seat with matching passenger pillion and backrest) and 19-inch 7-spoke Agitator Custom front wheel deliver a style that’s equally comfortable cruising the boulevard. New on the Street Glide® model this season is a high-output amplified audio system with 100 watts of power per channel (400 watts total) and eight custom speakers — including new 5 x 7-inch custom units, which are mounted on top of the saddlebag lids — allowing whatever songs that get loaded onto its 8GB Apple iPod® nano to sound crisp, loud, and clear at highway speeds. Monstrous sound is also a hallmark of the new CVOTM Ultra

Classic® Electra Glide® motorcycle, thanks to new front and rear Boom!TM Audio High Performance Speakers, a newly tuned Amplifier with customized equalization, Boom!TM Audio Bass Booster Ports in the Tour-Pak® luggage bottom liner, and the 40-watts-per-channel Advanced Audio System. That’s some serious sound for streaming its Sirius XM satellite radio, or anything from the 8GB Apple iPod® nano. A stand-out on the road or in a Sturgis-area campground, the CVOTM Ultra Classic® Electra Glide® motorcycle expands its reputation as the ultimate long-distance Touring motorcycle with new Chrome LED King Tour-Pak® luggage with 2.26 cu.-ft. of volume; the ultimate comfort of a suspended, dual-control heated seat (with adjustable passenger backrest and lumbar support); power-lock system for the saddlebags, Tour-Pak®, and ignition; Road TechTM zumo® 660 GPS system with integrated dash pad mount; a CB/ Intercom system; and, of course, ABS and electronic cruise control. The only non-Touring line CVOTM model for 2012, the Softail® Convertible motorcycle, nevertheless plays it both ways. Detachable, lockable sealing leather saddlebags and a new, vented detachable fairing (that’s now taller and wider for upgraded wind protection) support long-distance days in the custom leather seat, yet are easily removed when it’s time to roll into the landmark Full Throttle Saloon for some evening kicks. A Garmin® 660 GPS with integrated MP3 player is new this season and complements the electronic throttle control (with cruise), ABS, and keyless ignition system. Each 2012 CVOTM motorcycle is backed with a Two-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty and comes with the Smart Security System for added peace of mind. While we’ve mentioned a few feature highlights for each CVOTM model, check out www.harleycanada.com for the full list of the custom accessories that are featured on each model. hog® magazine canada

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S L I O E N A T C O H G I H

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E OF R U T C I P PANY G M N I O L C L MPE ON MOTOR O C A S AINT EY-DAVIDS P L H U ARL ER AVID H D E T S H I T T OF S BY MICHAEL LICHT AR Y R O T H S THE HI AN PHOTOGRAP E BY MIK

ZIMME

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David Uhl on the “Black Axe”, his custom 1940 Knucklehead motorcycle, outside Uhl Studios in Golden, Colorado.

IT WAS THE PEN

that launched a legendary career — a simple “19-cent Bic”. Meant for taking notes in class, instead in the hands of a young and bored David Uhl, it became a means of escape. Class notes became doodles, and the doodles evolved into a unique style. And eventually, that cheap little pen became the tool that helped David to carve out a lucrative niche in the highly competitive world of commercial art. “I went to an all-guys high school,” he recalls. “And, senior year I began drawing girls — and selling the pictures to other boys. That’s when I started thinking I could really become an artist.” After graduating in 1979 and without any formal training, David was awarded the prestigious John Jellico Scholarship to the Art Institute of Colorado. It was a tremendous opportunity for a small-town Michigan boy. But a year after enrolling, he found himself bored in the classroom again. “The only classes I wanted to go to were life drawing and illustration. So I ended up quitting, and then just started working in the real world.” That’s when David’s pen became truly mighty. The ballpoint style he had developed was unique — and in high demand. He started Uhl Illustration in 1980, and soon found himself with a thriving business. In 1989 he hired another talented illustrator, Danial James, and in 1997 they formed a partnership to create Uhl Studios. Over the years they’ve produced many hundreds of distinctive works for major companies, such as Black & Decker, Xerox, Brookstone, FedEx, IBM, Coca-Cola, and, of course, Harley-Davidson Motor Company. If you’ve seen more than a few Harley-Davidson® T-shirts in the past couple decades, there’s a good chance that you’re already familiar with their work. Some of the most iconic H-D® images have come from their Golden, Colorado, studio. 32

Their relationship with the Motor Company began in 1992, when a coloured pencil and airbrush illustration helped David land a licensing agreement with one of the major H-D® T-shirt vendors. Since then, the pair have created literally hundreds of designs for H-D – with Danial, a wizard with an airbrush and even better on the computer, handling the bulk of those duties in recent years. It wasn’t until 1998 that David turned most of his attention to oils. After taking some time to sit at the feet of Quang Ho, a renowned Denver artist, he dove in head first — and sold one of his first paintings to Harley-Davidson. There was nobody at the time doing classical paintings of old black-and-white photography – really cool vintage stuff, he explains. So I called up Vinnie, my local H-D® Retailer here — we’re good friends — and asked if he had any old pictures, or anything of old

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An example of Uhl’s recent ballpoint pen work. A winged skull was once considered a symbol of good luck, according to Uhl. Today, it more often represents “the spirit of freedom found from breaking with societal rhetoric and embracing the howling winds down the open road”.

Harley® imagery. He said yeah, sure — he saves everything! So we went looking through all of his shoeboxes and discovered one photo in particular that I really liked. There was even someone’s handwriting on the back — this couple had taken it somewhere in the Midwest in the early 1940s. So I fell in love and painted it. The image became a piece that he called “Change in the Weather”, which he says is still one of his favourites. He took it to Milwaukee, showed it to the Harley-Davidson® licensing people, and they loved it. After going through a couple channels to become an officially licensed Harley-Davidson® artist, he was off and running on a new phase of his career. A PHILOSOPHICAL APPROACH “I’ve always been fascinated with the nature of reality,” David says. “What the hell is this place? My perception tends to take me quite deep. So I’ve spent my life studying things like quantum physics, the mechanics of perspective, and the way light works. What’s really going on here? The idea seems to constantly come up that if you really want to find out, try drawing something.” The way David sees things, the ability to turn what you see into an

image on paper or canvas doesn’t develop through your hands. It has much more to do with how your brain processes visual information. It’s really quite bizarre … If you ask someone to draw something, and it’s sitting in front of them — most people just can’t see it for what it really is. They’re caught between the raw perception and what their mind’s version is telling them, to speed the process along. But if you turn that thing upside down they can magically draw it more accurately. They will then not recognize the ‘thing’ so much as the defining characteristics of the shape they’re looking at. So I spend much of my time just trying to not accept the canned version my brain is handing me for efficiency’s sake, and really see things with all their beauty and nuance. David himself will sometimes turn a painting upside down while he’s working on it in order to give himself a fresh perspective and get past any preconceived notions of how to get an image from his mind to his medium. “Mechanical things, like motorcycles, are complicated but pretty straightforward,” he says. “People are more challenging; kind of like a moving target … but I’m figuring that out, too.” Though art and design is in his nature (search for “Uhl chair” on the Internet, and you’ll find the highly collectible work of his father hog® magazine canada

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Uhl “at home” in his studio, where he says he’ll often lose track of time and keep working for hours on end. “That’s the part I love. That’s like, my favourite time, ever.” Opposite page left to right: “Ruth.” Oil on canvas. Part of Uhl’s Women of Harley-Davidson Collection; “Board Blaster”. Opaque watercolor. Unpublished. ®

AS A HARLEY-DAVISON® LICENSED ARTIST. HE HAS ACCESS TO PHOTOS FROM THE MOTOR COMPANY ARCHIVES, WHICH PROVIDES A VIRTUALLY LIMITLESS SOURCE OF MATERIAL. and grandfather), his love of motorcycles and riding was nurtured. It wasn’t something he grew up with, but his art drew him to mechanical things, and he discovered riding as a result. Today he owns a 2005 Harley® Softail® motorcycle and a 1940 Knucklehead model, known as the “Black Axe”, which was rebuilt by his friend, Dennis Goodson, a local bike builder. “I’ve always loved the bobbers,” David explains. “So I said, ‘Let’s do a bobber, Dennis.’ He hunted down a kind of basket case for me, then we just went through all the details. I worked with him on the drawings, and he put the whole bike together by hand.” One thing he loves about the bike is how convenient it is to have as a model. It’s depicted in quite a few of his works, often with his wife, Elizabeth, modeling as its rider. Like most great painters who depict “real life”, David works from a visual source when he paints, usually a photograph. As a Harley-Davidson® licensed artist, he has access to photos from 34

the Motor Company Archives, which provides a virtually limitless source of material. Sometimes he’ll use his computer to make a composite image — a background from one photo, and a motorcycle and rider from another — but more often than not he’ll work from an existing photo. One of his favorite sources is the collection of photos done by L.C. Rosenkrans, who was appointed as the first official HarleyDavidson® staff photographer in 1911. These photos, taken mostly on glass plates, only became available in 1999, when the Motor Company reacquired them from the Milwaukee County Historical Society. Aside from their significant historical nature, what distinguishes these works is the artistry that went into them. “[Rosenkrans] composed the pieces like paintings,” David says. “They looked like a painting. There was always a focal point, and there was often a nice big muted area for the type that they would drop in. So I really liked a lot of these.”

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Other significant collections that David has produced include official works for the Harley-Davidson® 100th Anniversary, Sturgis commemorative works, the “Graceland Project” (a collection of exclusively cross-licensed Elvis Presley works that he created in conjunction with H-D and sculptor Jeff Decker), and a pair of covers for the official Indianapolis 500 race program, including the 100th Anniversary edition in 2011. In addition to cars and motorcycles, favourite subjects include airplanes, the military, and of course, beautiful women. “I’ve got a whole series of pinups that’s a tribute to [legendary pinup artist] Gil Elvgren,” he says. Sometimes, several of those themes will convene in one painting, as in “Ruth”. This recent work commemorates the service of the Air Force WASPs (Women’s Airforce Service Pilots), a team of women pilots who flew airplanes from base to base during World War II. It depicts an “artistic interpretation” of Ruth Helm, a real-life surviving WASP — “the prettiest and most accomplished one I could find,” David says. Working from vintage photos, David hired a model that resembled the young Ruth to pose for the scene, which shows her astride a 1940 Knucklehead (the “Black Axe”, in fact) in front of a plane at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, Texas. ROAD WORK To help keep the business side of things going strong, David travels the country; setting up shop at motorcycle rallies and other events. In addition to generating sales, these events provide an opportunity to meet interesting people, keep in touch with the ever-changing culture, and find new sources of inspiration for his work. After nearly 15 years as a commercial oil painter, David has

developed a good sense of what will sell – though that doesn’t always mesh perfectly with what he’d like to do. It sometimes becomes a bit of a balancing act between making a living and stretching himself as an artist. “I have another gallery downtown that has beautiful ‘high art’, as Quang would call it, like museum-quality art,” he says. “There’s generally no story to it, and the subject matter is secondary; so it’s just art for art’s sake. It’s what a painter would create if there were no drive to monetize. I’m going to start doing more of that now that I‘m older, but to make a living in the motorcycle art world the subject still reigns king.” Fortunately, there seems to be no shortage of people who don’t just like but love his Harley-Davidson® artwork. It has earned him great renown, both in the U.S. and around the world. He knows that it’s a great gig, and he doesn’t plan to stop doing it any time soon. At the same time, he and Danial are moving forward with a new project — while also coming “full circle” in a very real sense. “Now I’m doing ballpoint pen drawings again, and they’re going on shirts,” he says with a note of excitement in his voice. “It’s like the old days; what I used to do. And it’s really fun because I can do it anywhere there’s light. I can just get on an airplane and draw, or sit and watch TV with my kids [Bella, 13, and Sterling, 8] and draw. And I’ve found I really miss that foundational aspect of it.” What he decidedly does not miss are the boring lectures that once accompanied his doodling. And of course, the cost of his tools has gone up considerably — more than tripling since 1979 … to a staggering 59 cents. See more of David Uhl’s work at www.uhlstudios.com. hog® magazine canada

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IT’S BETTER TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE

FPO $75 GIFT

GENUINE HARLEY-DAVIDSON® RALLY ARCHIVE COLLECTION

FREE WITH QUALIFYING $300 PURCHASE BETWEEN 11/1/11 AND 12/24/11* SEE RETAILER FOR MORE INFORMATION

*THE 2011 RALLY ARCHIVE COLLECTION IS FREE WITH SINGLE QUALIFYING $300 PURCHASE OF GENUINE HARLEY-DAVIDSON® MOTOR PARTS OR MOTOR ACCESSORIES, MOTORCLOTHES® MERCHANDISE, SCREAMIN’ EAGLE® PERFORMANCE PARTS AND OFFICIAL LICENSED PRODUCTS BETWEEN NOVEMBER 1 AND DECEMBER 24, 2011. NOT VALID ON PREVIOUS OR MULTIPLE PURCHASES. LIMITED-TIME OFFER WHILE SUPPLIES LAST AT PARTICIPATING AUTHORIZED CANADIAN HARLEY-DAVIDSON® RETAILERS. ONE GIFT PER CUSTOMER PLEASE. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER PROMOTIONS OR DISCOUNTS. OFFER MAY BE MODIFIED OR DISCONTINUED AT ANY TIME. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

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BACK SHOP/ PIT STOP

Group Dynamics: Make sure “more” stays “merry” with proper group-riding practices A New Generation: Polly Taylor talks about her first road trip abroad and encouraging younger riders. Million Mile Surprise: Frank Boorn is not the first — but may be the fastest — to reach the million-mile mark in the H.O.G.® Mileage Program

RALLY RIDES H.O.G.® Rally rides from coast to coast Garage PartyTM Events: Getting amped for the 2012 event Work Hard, Play Harder: How the Harley-Davidson® experience changed Ralph Zirknitzer’s life

RIDING STORIES You Oughta See Utah ... and Pass the Salt! Young Hawks — The next generation of motorcycle riders I Belong — Behavioural consultant finds a match for autistic therapy ... a HarleyDavidson® motorcycle

EXHAUST

Konstantin Egorov Photography

The Tao of Dave Grohl

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BACK SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 PIT STOP ƌ RALLY RIDES ƌ ENTHUSIASTS ƌ RIDING STORIES ƌ EXHAUST

GROUP DYNAMICS

Make Sure “More” Stays “Merry” with Proper Group-riding Practices By Becky Tillman

One of the greatest joys of motorcycling is riding with friends, but riding in a group presents special challenges. Whether your “group” consists of two riders, a dozen riders, or more, by learning some of the basic guidelines of group riding, you can help make sure that your next outing is safe and enjoyable for all. COMMUNICATION Good communication is one of the most important aspects of good group riding — and it starts before the ride begins. Whether a small group of friends out for a ride, or an organized event such as a Chapter ride, make sure everyone is on the same page before you set out. Be sure, for instance, that everybody knows what to do if someone gets separated from the group. Exchange cell phone numbers as needed. If you’re part of an “event”, attend the riders’ meeting. Ensure that everyone is clear on the hand signals to be used. Some of the basic ones include “form a single line” (one finger in the air); “hazard in roadway” (point with left arm or right foot); “slow down” (hold left arm straight out, palm down, move up and down several times); “speed up” (left arm out, palm up, move up and down); and “stop” (left arm out and bent downward). RIDING IN FORMATION Ever notice on TV when they show two motorcyclists riding together that they’re usually side by side? Don’t do that! It makes for great plot development when two characters can advance the storyline as they ride along and chat, but it’s not safe. Riding this way reduces the ability of the riders to manoeuvre and “escape” in dangerous situations. Rather, the first rule of riding in groups is to ride in staggered formation; that is, with the lead rider in the left third of the lane, the second rider following in the right third, the third rider again in the left, and so on. Each rider behind the leader should maintain a twosecond following distance to the rider two spots ahead (in the same side of the lane), and a one-second following distance behind the

person directly ahead (on the opposite side). In addition to the space-cushion advantage, the staggered formation takes up less room on the highway than a single-file line, makes it easier for other motorists to see you, and makes it less likely that you’ll be separated by other traffic. When riding through tight curves in a group, don’t feel compelled to maintain your lane position if it compromises your ability to navigate the turns properly. However, stay conscious of your following distance. It’s okay to let a little space open up between you and the bike ahead if your comfort level requires it. If you’re riding lead or toward the front of the group, be conscious of those behind you — make sure that you’re not leaving anyone to eat your proverbial dust. If the rest of the group seems determined to ride through the “twisties” at a higher speed than you’re comfortable with, don’t be afraid to speak up at the next stop. It’s the responsibility of all of the riders in a group to respect the different experience and skill levels of all of the other riders in the group. STAYING TOGETHER Even though riding in formation presents a number of advantages, it also presents certain challenges. Chief among them can simply be staying together — especially when riding through protected intersections. In fact, one of the biggest stress factors for inexperienced group riders is the fear of getting separated at a red light. Again, it’s better to get separated and regroup later than to put someone’s safety at risk. Make sure that you establish a plan and that everyone knows it. Additionally, if your group is a large one, it’s usually best to split into smaller groups of six to eight people than to try to maintain one large pack. If less-experienced riders are along, make sure they aren’t all in one group, and that each “sub-group” has at least one experienced rider to look after the beginners. Finally, relating to the point above, it’s a good idea to have experienced riders — or even official “ride captains” like in a H.O.G.®

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THE PURPOSE OF A GROUP RIDE SHOULD BE TO ENJOY THE RIDE ALONG WITH EACH OTHER’S COMPANY…

Chapter environment — riding in both the lead and the “sweeper” (the last bike) positions in each group. INTERSECTIONS While groups of motorcycles have a visibility advantage over single bikes, intersections are still the area of highest risk. Approach with caution, with riders proceeding through only when it’s safe and legal. Blocking an intersection without permission and a proper escort is almost always illegal. Always put personal safety ahead of staying with the group. At STOP signs and red lights: Line up side by side and two by two. Proceed through the intersections two at a time, returning to the staggered formation as you pull away. If it is clear of other vehicles — or if you can be confident (through eye contact and hand gestures) that the other vehicles at the intersection know what you’re doing — it’s sometimes okay to proceed in larger groups. But do so only with great care! Left turns at a protected intersection with a left-turn arrow: Tighten the formation to allow as many riders as possible to pass through quickly. Don’t ride side by side; make the turn in single file or in a tight, staggered formation. Left turns at a protected intersection with NO left-turn arrow: Proceed with caution in single file, with each rider proceeding through the intersection only when it’s safe and legal. At an intersection with a two-way stop (traffic light or STOP signs): While waiting at a traffic light, it may be appropriate to close up the formation and wait side by side. However, when the light turns green, riders should pull away one by one and re-establish formation. At an intersection with a YIELD sign: Turn your head to check for traffic before merging. INTERSTATES AND FREEWAYS When merging onto a multi-lane freeway, do so in single file, and go into the staggered formation only after entering the flow of traffic. It’s the responsibility of the lead rider to accelerate to, and maintain, a safe merging speed — and the responsibility of those following to keep up. Bear in mind that other traffic may well separate your group when you merge. If this happens, take your time re-grouping; don’t be in such a hurry to re-establish your formation that you

compromise anyone’s safety. It’s often a good idea to slow down a little (staying in the right lane) and encourage the other vehicle to pass, waving the driver around if necessary. At cruising speeds, the ride leader is well advised to stay alert for merging issues as the group approaches on-ramps. If your group is in the right lane, consider moving the group one lane to the left (with enough notice and good communication) when approaching a merging situation. Exiting the freeway should also be done in single file. Adjust your following distances accordingly as you exit — keeping in mind that your following distance (measured in seconds) will automatically increase as you slow down, even if you keep the same linear distance from the bike ahead of you. PASSING The basic rules are simple: on multi-lane interstates and freeways, pass in small groups (three at a time is a good number); on two-lane highways, pass one by one, safely, and only in marked passing zones. A more important rule is: pass only when necessary! It’s often better to bide your time and be patient — especially on two-lane roadways. Passing presents special challenges for a group. It can lead to a group getting separated and put riders in dangerous situations, often unnecessarily. The purpose of a group ride should be to enjoy the ride along with each other’s company, and to have a shared experience to talk about later. The purpose of a group ride shouldn’t be to get somewhere in a hurry. As a lead rider, if you find that your group is stuck behind a slowmoving vehicle on a two-lane road, don’t force it. Consider finding a safe place to pull over and rest for a while. Or just drop back to a safe following distance, relax your mind, and focus on the scenery or the beautiful weather instead of the frustration of the slower speed. A DYNAMIC APPROACH The group riding guidelines presented here are just that: guidelines. As with any aspect of motorcycling, there’s always more to learn and there’s no substitute for experience. To learn more about best group riding practices, talk to your local Harley-Davidson® Retailer or H.O.G.® Chapter. Becky Tillman is MSF RiderCoach Trainer, Rider’s Edge® Instructor, and Rider’s Edge® Regional Manager, Harley-Davidson Rider Services. Sources: Harley-Davidson® Rider’s Edge® Program and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Guide to Motorcycling Excellence.

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BACK SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 PIT STOP ƌ RALLY RIDES ƌ ENTHUSIASTS ƌ RIDING STORIES ƌ EXHAUST

A NEW GENERATION

HOG® Magazine Canada caught up with Polly Taylor — the Ambassador for Youth at Shaw HarleyDavidson® in the UK — in the Golfe de Saint-Tropez to talk about her first road trip abroad and what it means to be helping to encourage younger riders on to Harley® motorcycles. Also, here is a trick to get others started riding, right in our own Canadian backyard! Polly Taylor is a 21-year-old trainee solicitor from Brighton, England, in the UK. She is also the star of the most recent advertising for UK Retailer, Shaw Harley-Davidson®, and has been named the Retail Store’s Ambassador for Youth. She has just experienced her first European road trip astride her Iron 883TM Sportster® motorcycle. Taking a break from her law degree, Polly and the Shaw HarleyDavidson® team rode the 1,600-kilometre journey to the HarleyDavidson® Euro Festival in the Golfe de Saint-Tropez last Spring, taking in some of France’s most beautiful riding roads. “I never thought I’d be doing this so soon,” she grins. “This is one of the reasons I got my bike licence. I would never have thought I would be sitting here, in Saint-Tropez, having ridden my Harley® [motorcycle] from the UK, just two years after getting my licence.” Polly was “brought up” on the back of her dad’s bike. “It was inevitable I would get my licence, and my mum has hers too,” she

says. “I was really into horse riding too, and riding a motorbike is a similar feeling — it’s all about horsepower! Bikes are cheaper to buy and run than cars, and it’s much easier for parking too.” As soon as she turned 18, Polly got her bike licence, but didn’t ride much to begin with. “It was only recently that I started looking to buy a bike,” she says. A custom bike show in Brighton caught her attention and, after seeing the range of bikes on display — many of them Harley-Davidson® motorcycles — immediately hit Facebook looking for information on renting Harley® motorcycles. “Steve Willis at Shaw Harley-Davidson® saw my post on Facebook and got in touch. He lent me a Sportster® [motorcycle] for a ride out [that] I wanted to do the following weekend, and that was it — I had the bug!” It was then that Steve saw the potential for a new way of promoting biking to a younger audience, using social media, and named Polly as the Retail Store’s Ambassador for Youth. Polly is proud to be helping the motorcycle industry as a whole by

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“I WAS REALLY INTO HORSE RIDING TOO, AND RIDING A MOTORBIKE IS A SIMILAR FEELING — IT’S ALL ABOUT HORSEPOWER!”

encouraging younger people onto bikes, and Harley® motorcycles. “My friends love my bike and the opportunities it’s given me. Some of my girlfriends wonder why on earth I wanted to ride a motorbike, but then they see me riding off to places like Saint-Tropez and all of a sudden they’re interested! I keep telling them that they can do it, and away they go. It’s not difficult.” Polly did some advanced rider training at a Rider’s Edge® Harley-Davidson® rider training centre in Wales. “The guys over there are great; they really build your confidence while keeping you focused on safety. I learned to read the road better, and also how to handle the heavier Harley® [motorcycle].” The ride to the south of France was Polly’s first time riding abroad, and she loved every minute of it. “I was a bit nervous of the motorways — I normally avoid them in the UK — but they were actually OK. After clearing northern France on the motorways, we took smaller roads which were more scenic, and I loved riding through the mountains.” The route took the group from Calais via Reims, Chalons en Champagne, Auxerre, Vichy, and Joyeuse before finally arriving at Port Grimaud. “Arriving here after such a great three-day ride was amazing. I just can’t believe I’m sitting here; it’s such a cool experience and I’ve had the best time.” The bottom line for Polly is the freedom and independence that riding her Harley® motorcycle brings. “It’s like a whole new way to holiday. It would be so cool getting a load of mates together and doing something like this – setting off to beautiful locations in Europe — much more exciting than most typical holidays.” Polly is clearly very attached to her Sportster® motorcycle, named Bad Ass Bella. “I’ve ridden most of the Harley® [motorcycle] range, but I love the Iron 883TM motorcycle. It’s perfect for me — it’s not too big or heavy and is really responsive. It’s a great city bike, but has also been really comfortable for this long ride.” Polly is now working with Shaw Harley-Davidson® to help encourage more young riders to realize their dreams and get on a Harley® motorcycle. Steve Willis, Retailer Principal, says: “We know the bikes can be quite expensive, but we’re working on a scheme which makes Harley® motorcycles really affordable to younger riders; taking second-hand Sportster® [motorcycle]s and customizing them for each individual.” So what’s next for the law student from Brighton? “I’m going to take a sabbatical and travel for a while. Now I’ve done my first ride overseas and had a taste of touring, the world is my oyster!”

GIRL POWER A Harley-Davidson® motorcycle exudes the same high standard and good taste as its riders. To that point, and with the intention of connecting with new female riders, Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada has created a Branded event series called Garage PartyTM. Harley-Davidson® Retailers all across Canada host these parties — for ladies only — which provide a fun, non-intimidating environment to learn and ask questions about anything and everything that has to do with getting started in the Harley-Davidson® world of motorcycling. Retailers customize their own events, which also include educational elements such as how to and where to get your motorcycle licence, how

to fit a bike, and how to lift a bike. It is also a great way to meet other like-minded women and connect with a network with whom you can learn and ride. With 79 Retail locations across Canada, a Garage PartyTM near you can be found at garageparty.ca. A national Garage PartyTM contest will be running February 1 through March 30, 2012 with the chance to win our biggest Garage PartyTM contest prize yet, so make sure you visit garageparty. ca today for details. When you attend a Garage PartyTM during the promotion you will receive an additional entry to the contest and many Retailers hold contests and prize giveaways of their own at each event. The photos speak for themselves!

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BACK SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 PIT STOP ƌ RALLY RIDES ƌ ENTHUSIASTS ƌ RIDING STORIES ƌ EXHAUST

MILLION MILE SURPRISE By Frank Boorn

He’s not the first to reach the million-mile mark in the H.O.G.® Mileage Program, but he may have done it the fastest. He’s also perhaps the most unlikely person to accomplish the feat to-date. If you were a fly on the wall in 1993, you may have heard H.O.G.® member, Frank Boorn of Marietta, Georgia, tell his 16-year-old son, “David, there’s nobody on the planet who wants to learn to ride a motorcycle less than I do.” Frank, it seems, was quite content at the time with the lifestyle that he had chosen: full-time attorney, parttime golfer. (He was also an assistant golf pro for six years.) “I didn’t even own a pair of blue jeans back then,” he recalls. “All I ever wore were golf clothes.” But, David was persistent. He wanted a motorcycle — not the used car that his father had promised. “[A motorcycle] is a very bad idea for a 16-year-

old,” Frank protested. “It’s very impractical. What will you do when it’s raining? And girls won’t like you if you ride a motorcycle.” “Oh, yes, they will!” David responded, likely with some disbelief at his dad’s level of ignorance regarding the effect of a motorcycle on the hearts of young women. “I’ve already asked some of them.” He was very persuasive, so Frank made a few phone calls and discovered the Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program (GMSP). He told David that he could get a motorcycle if he took and passed the three-day training course. “You have to take it with me,” David insisted, prompting the “nobody on the planet” comment that was mentioned earlier. David’s persistence — and his father’s compassion — won the day again, and soon they were both on the practice range.

“We had a very patient instructor named Kit Carson,” Frank says. “I had never even sat on a running motorcycle before — I was dumbfounded by all the requirements. I really struggled at first, but by the third day, I was loving it. Kit said he had never seen anybody go from being so uninterested to being so passionate in just three days.” At the end of the class, when Kit asked Frank what he planned to do next, he didn’t hesitate: “I’m going to go to the Harley-Davidson® Retail Store and buy two motorcycles.” Eighteen years later, Frank, now a retired attorney, doesn’t play much golf anymore — he just doesn’t have the time! He rides literally every day, usually all day. In fact, he hasn’t owned a car in 16 years. His wife, Teresa, has a car, but he estimates that he himself drives it for only about 150 miles a year — on special occasions, “like a dress-up dinner for Valentine’s Day, or something like that.” If you do the math, it comes out to about 55,000 miles a year. But that’s a slow year by Frank’s standards now, when his annual total is typically about 65,000 miles. It has all been meticulously documented for the H.O.G.® Mileage Program by Earl Small’s Harley-Davidson® Retail Store in Marietta, Georgia, where Frank brings his bike about once a month for a full service. If you browse the pre-owned bikes there, it’s not unusual to find at least one of Frank’s previous bikes available. He trades for a new one each year. The odometer on his current ride, a 2012 Ultra Classic® Electra Glide® motorcycle

already shows nearly 15,000 miles, and on September 2, 2011, Frank officially joined Dave Zien, Michie Cohen, James Burke, Don Carrell, and Angie Marsh in the “Million Mile Club”. (Zien has the highest total, with more than 1,350,000 official miles.) Frank has many to thank for making it all possible. But first and foremost he’s grateful to God for keeping him safe. He also marvels at the support that he has gotten from Retail Stores and fellow riders around the country — and the world. He has ridden in all 50 states, as well as in Mexico, Canada, Holland, and Australia. Tragically, David — who had become a Primary Instructor for the GMSP — was killed in an automobile accident in 2004. But riding remains a family affair for the Boorns. Teresa has joined Frank on the passenger seat for about 650,000 of his million miles, and their daughter, Danielle, now rides a Harley® motorcycle, as well. He says the best family vacation they ever took was a trip to Sturgis, South Dakota, in 2000. It all fits in well with his overall life philosophy, which is that he would “rather die living than live dying”. If your mind boggles at what it must cost to ride a million miles in 18 years, you may take comfort that it sometimes boggles Frank’s mind, as well. But it’s truly a small price to pay for the rewards , he says. “The expenses I have incurred were a bargain compared to the memories that will be with me for the rest of my life.” For more information on the H.O.G.® Mileage Program, log on to members.hog.com.

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BACK SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 PIT STOP ƌ RALLY RIDES ƌ ENTHUSIASTS ƌ RIDING STORIES ƌ EXHAUST

KAMLOOPS CAN HOST ONE HECK OF A PARTY! 2011 National H.O.G.® Rally Wrap-Up By Gina McNeil We are thrilled to share our experiences of yet another successful event — the 16th Canadian National H.O.G.® Rally in Kamloops, British Columbia. The ride to Kamloops alone was worth the price of admission, with absolutely spectacular scenery from all sides. And of course, the weather certainly helped, with an average of 28 degrees Celsius every day. We experienced exceptional British Columbia hospitality and fantastic weather, a Rally that had super volunteers who came

from all over the province, a well-organized Retail partner, an impressive 600 motorcycles in the parade, and numerous very successful activities throughout the week. The 1,375 registered participants all enjoyed the fun. Kudos to everyone involved! The Rally event kicked off on Thursday with the opening ceremonies at the host hotel, on the conference centre side, which engaged the whopping 1,000 plus members in attendance. The evening started off with our debonair emcee, Randy Wylie, District Manager

and ad-libber extraordinaire. Followed by a special welcome from Malcolm Hunter, President & Chief Operating Officer, on behalf of Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada and a touching tribute for Cliff Randall, our former Western Regional Director. We also welcomed our VIP guest from the HarleyDavidson Motor Company, Greg Smith, Director of Motor Parts. The evening continued with the unique antics of Mike Braniff, ironically dubbed “The Party HOG” with his “one man, one guitar, one good reason to

get out and party” comedy and music routine. One of the focal points for Friday was the Show ’N Shine, which was also held at the host hotel (Kamloops Towne Lodge). The event highlighted over 56 exquisite motorcycles with a variety of unique designs and forms of expression that captured the curiosity and the “wows” of those who stopped by to have a look and vote for their favourite bike. Based on what they offered up for display, there is no question of the effort spent and the pride that each of these participants has for their special piece of machinery. The evening ended with an incredibly nostalgic blast from the past with “Trooper”, which was the highlight of what was one heck of a street party! Kamloops Harley-Davidson® played host to an outdoor event at their Retail Store, which included free food and entertainment (all day long), plus a fashion show, street dancing, and much more. The host Retailer took heed of the recommendations from last year and stayed open throughout the evening party for those who wanted to continue to buy Harley-Davidson® merchandise. This proved to be very successful

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for some very happy Retailers. The parade was on Saturday and was 600 strong, and made a great representation of the Brand. The route took the riders through a variety of roads that included great scenic views and a very cool return route that made participants pass each other in opposite directions. At the end of the parade, at McArthur Island Sport & Event Centre, there were plenty of refreshments, and there was friendly competition in the bike games for all of the participants and spectators who opted to stick around. The event ended with the closing ceremonies, held at the Tournament Capital Centre Field House, which was the first time ever that Kamloops has held an event of this nature in this particular facility (we were actually a test case, and from what I understand, they plan to do more in the future because of its success). The closing ceremonies highlighted the awards, Chapter Challenge Winners from Langley, the amazing food service (even faster than last year — clocking in at 10 minutes to feed everyone), and two great rock bands called “Young’uns” and the “Jimmy LeGuilloux Band”, which had people on their feet dancing non-stop for most of the evening! Thank you to all of the participants and supporters who made this an incredibly fun and memorable event! We are looking forward to seeing you all next year in Moncton, New Brunswick, for what will be a fresh new look and feel for a national event. It will certainly not be the way it has always been, and the focus with be on “riding and having fun!”

A SENSE OF FAMILY, FOUND IN ALBERTA By Stephan Chantal and Brad Carvery

Welcomed by the sunny skies of Calgary, and feeling the breeze while cruising down the highway on my Fat Boy® Lo motorcycle, I headed to the first meeting place for the Alberta Rally Ride, in Edmonton, in an attempt to avoid some inclement weather that was forecast for the area. When another day arrived, we were brightened by sunshine and blue skies and we were greeted by wonderful hotel staff as we enjoyed a complimentary hot breakfast. The evening event, which was hosted by Harley-Davidson® of Edmonton, was well organized by the Retail staff, who provided a wonderful pig roast dinner and dessert while H.O.G.® members socialized and complimented the delicious meal and the Rally experience so far. As the sun set, members wrapped up conversations and rode into the beautiful night, destined for a comfortable bed in preparation for an early morning. The morning was gloomy and wet, but this did not stop the members en route to Heritage Harley-Davidson® who were determined to get a filling breakfast, served off the grill. While many were enjoying

breakfast and a tour of Heritage Harley-Davidson®, some members decided it was time to hit the wide open road and head to the glorious town of Gasoline Alley, Alberta, for lunch. The smell of the grill at Gasoline Alley Harley-Davidson® filled the air as members pulled into the parking lot and were welcomed by the staff to enjoy a hearty lunch and a tour of the facility. Then it was time to head for the hills towards the little city of Drumheller and to enjoy the scenery while refueling the motorcycles. The weather had become unstable, and before the riders were showered by rain they headed out of Drumheller towards Calgary. Before long we came to a dirt road along the way. Although it would have been best to avoid it, there was no other choice but to ride through. The goal was to keep the bike on two wheels along the bumpy road, which was close to six kilometres long. At last we reached the paved road and continued on the journey to Calgary, specifically headed for Kane’s Harley-Davidson® Calgary. We arrived at Kane’s Harley-Davidson® Calgary and promptly devoured a wonderful dinner while conversing with other attending members. The third day of the Alberta Rally was another gorgeous day and started with a ride over to the Calgary Retailer, Calgary Harley-Davidson®, for breakfast. We were greeted by members and staff, who served a hearty breakfast. There’s

nothing like eggs, beans, hash browns, sausage, bacon, and coffee to start your day! Breakfast wrapped up, and the journey continued to Lethbridge where we were again welcomed by the Retail staff. I talked to the Chapter director, Eric, who spoke about engaging younger riders in H.O.G.® and having open rides to allow others to feel the passion and the love that H.O.G.® has helped to create. Eric also gave us a tour of the facility, as well as some of the work that he’s done. Next up, we rode to Medicine Hat in southern Alberta. The road was smooth and straightforward. I felt a sense of family after all the riding from city to city. Members were truly coming together as a community to look after, not only themselves, but other respective riders. We reached Medicine Hat, where the closing event soon began, and riders made their way to the hotel to check-in and then head over to the wind-up BBQ at a pub, which was within walking distance of the hotel. The food was, once again, to die for, delicious steak and lobster to cap off the night, and then prizes were given away for the Poker Run along with gift cards and T-shirts. In the midst of the delicious meal and the prize giveaways, members were also entertained by speeches from H.O.G.® Canada representatives, Rally committee members, Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada staff, and the guest of honour from Milwaukee. A big thankyou was extended to all of the members in attendance, and to the Retailers, the venues, and the guests.

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BACK SHOP / DECEMBER 2011

CAPE BRETON HERITAGE AND HOSPITALITY SHINES BRIGHT 20th Atlantic Regional H.O.G.® Rally was a success By Andrew Tonet Despite the inclement weather, the 2011 Atlantic Regional H.O.G.® Rally was a great success, with 399 H.O.G.® members from all over North America in attendance. Chapter members traveled from many parts of the U.S. — and from as far away as the Yukon — to attend this four-day event. The events kicked off on the evening of July 13 with a director’s night at the Crown and Moose Pub, located at the host hotel, the Delta Sydney. The “Cape Breton Heritage Tour” theme gave the guests an opportunity to be immersed in the Cape Breton culture and to explore the history of Cape Breton Island. On Thursday morning the rides began. The daily rides took guests to

historic parks and museums, such as the Cape Breton Miner’s Museum, the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, and the Highland Village Museum. The afternoon rides explored scenic roads and venues in neighbouring towns and villages. There was no shortage of local entertainment, which showcased the local flavour of celtic music, with a total of seven bands playing over four days. Participants will never forget the ride to Fortress Louisbourg, where we had the opportunity to ride through the main gates of the Fortress and then were served a nice breakfast by staff animators. The Joan Harris Pavilion was the host events facility for the Rally and played a very

important role in the success of the events and ceremonies. The weather forced us to take the Show ’N Shine indoors, but the pavilion staff did an incredible job assisting with the change of plans. The bike games and the Show ’N Shine took place without any problems. The opening ceremony showcased Cape Breton heritage with the Sons of Membertou First Nation drummers and dancers, celtic music, and the only DNA Tester in Atlantic Canada. Gina McNeil, Manager, Enthusiast Services, volunteered to be the first one tested, and the results were very clear that Gina is an original Cape Bretoner. The guests were then bussed to the Retailer party at

Ramsay’s Cycle where H.O.G.® members were treated to a catered BBQ, a live band, and great deals on HarleyDavidson® merchandise. The closing ceremony was catered with a full-service buffet, two live bands, and a local comedian, Manard Morrison, who rocked the crowd with his very unique twist on Cape Breton. The sun finally made an appearance, making way for the legacy tour, which took riders around the world famous Cabot Trail, rated by H.O.G.® members as the number one ride in North America. The next stop was in the village of Cheticamp for a BBQ and fuel, and then riders travelled to the famous Keltic Lodge, in the Cape Breton Highlands. Goodbyes were exchanged, thirsts were quenched, and members turned the handlebars of their Harley-Davidson® motorcycles towards home.

Konstantin Egorov Photography

PIT STOP ƌ RALLY RIDES ƌ ENTHUSIASTS ƌ RIDING STORIES ƌ EXHAUST

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LESSONS LEARNED EN ROUTE TO THUNDER BAY, ONTARIO

Konstantin Egorov Photography

Ontario Provincial Rally Thunder Bay — July 28 to 30, 2011 By Michael Harwood One of the great benefits of working at Deeley HarleyDavidson® Canada is the opportunity to attend the many riding events that are happening across this great nation of ours. This year, I volunteered to be the official designate from Deeley to attend the 2011 Ontario Provincial H.O.G.® Rally in Thunder Bay, Ontario. As the Human Resources Director for Deeley, I look forward to being able to spend time with our Customers and talk to them about their riding experiences, as well as getting to spend time with our amazing

team of Retailers, visit their stores, and get to know some of their staff. Listening to riders and Retail staff certainly helps me to better understand what is happening in the riding community, and how we at Deeley Harley-Davidson® Canada can support the Retail network to better meet the needs of the consumer. By mid-July, I had begun to plan my trip in earnest. I contacted a few of the local H.O.G.® Chapters to see if any members who were planning to attend the Rally, so I could tag along. As it turns out, the owners

of Barrie Harley-Davidson® — Bruce and Kate Insley — told me that were planning to attend and I would be welcome to join them on the ride. I wanted to map out my route and figured the best place to start was with the Ride Planner on the members only, Harley Owners Group® website. This is a great place to plan your trip, with excellent online resources to help you put together an itinerary, route, and safe riding plan … all of which help to ensure a wonderful riding experience. Bruce and Kate wanted to do

a loop run to Thunder Bay, Ontario, so we opted to take Highway 11 through North Bay, Cochrane, Hearst, Long Lac, and Nipigon into Thunder Bay. Coming home we would take Route 17 South out of Nipigon through Marathon, Wawa, Sault Ste. Marie, and then either Sudbury, or across the ferry to Tobermory, and home. With plans in hand, we set out on our cross Ontario adventure. We had a chance to try all the gear in our saddlebags: Cold weather gloves, rain gear, heavy jacket/ liner, mesh jacket, and various types of glasses … I guess that’s why you pack for all types of weather! The other important lesson that I learned is that there are no gas stations between Hearst and Long Lac. This was a lesson I learned the hard way, after missing an opportunity to refuel after lunch in Hearst, we thought we would find a station or two along the way. The ones we did find were no longer in business. After nursing my 2011 CVOTM Street Glide® motorcycle well beyond the low indicator on the range setting (a surprising 60 km at 80 kph, and running on fumes), I came up six kilometres short of the next gas stop in Long Lac. Another story to add to the books! The run into Thunder Bay from Nipigon was fantastic, passing by the Terry Fox Memorial and the Sleeping Giant. With a welcoming committee at the Victoria Inn, the host hotel, we knew we were in for a great weekend. The organizing committee, led by John Aitken, Susie, and

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John T., put together a fabulous event. It was well organized, well run, and supported by a terrific team of volunteers. All events were held at the hotel, except the Show ’N Shine, which was held downtown at the Thunder Bay Casino. Ted Ciotucha, his daughter, Mandy, and the team at Thunder Bay Harley-Davidson® were always available to lend a helping hand. The Retail store was just across the street from the Victoria Inn, and was close to the other hotels that were being used. I was excited to see some of the local sites, and joined a number of the organized rides. With trips to Kakapecka Falls, Mount Mackay, and Ouimet Canyon, I certainly got in some spectacular riding time. Many thanks to the volunteers that showed us around and made sure we all made it home safely. Sunday morning saw the end of a great Rally. After saying good-bye to some new friends, it was time to hit the road for the return ride home. Originally, we had planned to spend the night in Wawa, but after getting there shortly after 3:00 p.m., I

opted to push on, leaving Bruce and Kate to do a little local sight-seeing. After another four-hour stint along a beautiful winding road, with spectacular vistas of Lake Superior, I finally put the kick-stand down in Blind River. This left me a relatively

short, but picturesque, hop down to South Baymouth, on Manitoulin Island, in time to catch the famed Chi-Cheemaun Ferry to Tobermory. Lady Luck was indeed smiling, as I was the very last vehicle allowed on board.Following the ferry,

I enjoyed a warm, sunny ride down the Bruce Peninsula and the scenic roads of the GreyBruce area of Ontario. What a way to end this 3,400-km round trip. I can hardly wait to start planning for next summer’s rides.

15TH QUEBEC PROVINCIAL H.O.G. RALLY ®

By Jean Beauchemin, Rally Coordinator

The 15th Quebec Provincial H.O.G.® Rally had 856 participants, and was a big success. The oldest participant, Ms. Violette Flowers from Sauble Beach, Ontario, was on the site for all of the event activities: evening shows, bike games, and the closing ceremony — and she also rode a motorcycle for the city street parade. Ms. Flowers is 100 years old, and needless to say, won the prize for the oldest Rally participant. The Rally started on Thursday, July 28, with a ride to Brome Lake Ducks, where participants were invited for lunch to a duck tasting menu (degustation, en francais). The opening ceremony was held with a captivating flight aboard a hot air balloon, in which 25 randomly-selected Rally participants had the opportunity to go up and enjoy the great view. Then, the Chapter race took place. The evening’s entertainment was provided by the band “Le Groupe Variation”. The next day, the Poker Run involved 600 participants for lunch at our sponsor Retailer, Leo Harley-Davidson®, and the evening entertainment was provided by Martin Deschamps and his band. Deschamps also brought his HarleyDavidson® Trike to the site and started his show by riding his bike into the tent. If you do not know Martin Deschamps directly, you might have seen him when he sang at Jack Layton’s funeral. On Saturday we had the Show ’N Shine with 24 motorcycles, as well as games — slow race, straight pipe, and pan head — before the city streets were covered by 585 motorcycles during the parade, followed by the closing ceremony dinner (Portuguese chicken and beef tenderloin), as well as the final evening show with Michel Pagliaro, Quebec’s “Godfather of Rock”. The success of the Rally is thanks to the collective effort of the 106 volunteers who worked hard during this adventure; we couldn’t have made it without them. Also, my thanks, to our sponsor Retailer, who supported us in every possible way, even generously contributing a $30,000 sponsorship.

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FPO 2012 NATIONAL RALLY AD

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NEW CONTENT, new access, SAME GREAT STORIES

BEING A CANADIAN MEMBER HAS ITS OWN REWARDS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check it out at www.openroadprogram.com.

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MOTO VASION

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

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The Bar & Shield logo, Harley, Harley-Davidson and Garage Party are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC. ÂŠ 2011 H-D. Printed in Canada

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BACK SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 PIT STOP ƌ RALLY RIDES ƌ ENTHUSIASTS ƌ RIDING STORIES ƌ EXHAUST

WORK HARD, PLAY HARDER

Ralph Zirknitzer talks about conversations in a bar, and how they led to the Harley-Davidson® experience changing his life. As a professional cocktail barman for many years, I am used to listening to people from all walks of life tell their stories, recount their dreams. I met many bikers during those years, and heard their stories of the freedom of the open road, being at one with

their motorcycles, waiting for the next adventure around the sweeping bend ahead. At that time, I didn’t even have a licence to ride a motorcycle, let alone owned one — indeed, it had never been part of my life’s plan to own one. Yet, somehow a seed was

sown with those stories at the bar; something touched a nerve within me and a strange thing happened — I began to realize that I wanted to experience the freedom that I had heard so many of them talk about: the air rushing past as you face nothing but an open road.

It became clear that I had to do something about this growing obsession. I had a little money set aside, so I went for it and learned to ride a motorcycle. My journey began! At the time I was travelling across Europe with my work so much that owning a motorcycle just didn’t work for me, so I spent many years renting bikes when I needed them, or felt the urge to ride them. But the need to own my own bike kept getting stronger, and in 2007, I finally bought my

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first motorcycle, a 1200cc BuellTM motorcycle. Man, I loved that bike. It was so, so cool to finally have my own machine; one that I could make my own with those little modifications and tweaks to suit me perfectly, that I could take out whenever I felt the urge to hit the open road. Owning that bike made me really understand what those bikers had been saying so many years ago. What they hadn’t told me was what an obsession that feeling can become, and how it

can take over your entire life. As that feeling grew, I knew that I had to have a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. So after a while my beautiful beloved BuellTM bike had to go, in order to make way for my perfect motorcycle, a Night Rod® Special motorcycle. Since then, the HarleyDavidson® Brand has become my work and my life, as well as my obsession. I set up my own business, Choppers Bar, which takes me to the big Harley-Davidson® events around Europe serving drinks, mixing cocktails, and meeting fellow H.O.G.® members and Harley® riders from around the world. Now the Harley® community has become an integral part of my life and my career. It’s a wonderful position to be in, and one that I never really dreamed would happen. I get to travel

across Europe and beyond with the major Harley® events, and I’m always right in the centre of the action. If you’ve been to a Harley® Days event or a big H.O.G.® Rally in Europe then the chances are that you’ve been to the Choppers Bar at the centre of the action and met me, even if you didn’t know it at the time. I love being at the heart of these incredible events, meeting friends old and new. And I remember those bikers many years ago telling me that it is the community that sets the Harley-Davidson® world apart from other bikes; that there is no such thing as a stranger in the world of H.O.G.® — just friends that you haven’t met yet. So now, whether I’m on the road to set up the bar at the next Harley® event, riding my “Choppers Bar”-customized

Night Rod® Special motorcycle, or mixing cocktails at the H.O.G.® events, I think back to those biker dudes explaining about the freedom of the open road, about forgetting everything and just getting on your bike and taking off on an adventure, and I smile, because now I’m one of them. And now it is me that is telling the stories about the freedom of the open highway, the next curve in the road and what might lie beyond it; because now I truly understand what those riders were trying to tell me. And they were right. Ralph is a H.O.G.® member and owner of Choppers Bar, www.choppers-bar.com, and he looks forward to mixing you a fine cocktail when you see him at the next Harley® event!

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COUNTLESS WAYS TO CAPTURE YOUR SPIRIT.

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BACK SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 PIT STOP ƌ RALLY RIDES ƌ ENTHUSIASTS ƌ RIDING STORIES ƌ EXHAUST

YOU OUGHTA SEE UTAH… AND PASS THE SALT! By Ricki Letofsky

We loaded up the bike and loaded on the SPF 30, to cross into Utah from Nevada on a dazzlingly sunny day. It was the kind of hot where the air was barely breathable, while the sun was a radiant disc in the bright blue sky. The day would be a scorcher for sure! Highway No. 80 had, up to this point, been a series of swerves and curves, escalating elevation, and astounding views rounding each bend in the road. We were taken by surprise once we were over the state line into Utah. This part of the road could have been drawn with a ruler and a fine point pen. It was a straight, horizontal line with images of far-off mountains appearing as a mirage on the distant horizon. We were practically the only ones on the road for miles, with minimal signage breaking the consistency. Eventually the road took to turns again, with mountains slowly

encroaching on either side. The highway took us upward and it was easy to see where the road led, far into the distance. Parts of the way were cut through the stone; the walls were beautiful rock formations. Then the mountains moved back into the distance. By its appearance on a map, this road may have been deemed unexciting, but its ever changing backdrop was pure biker bliss. At times fellow travellers came into view. Set against the backdrop of the remote scenery, big Touring bikes would appear very tiny. We must have also looked that way to them, as the small friendly wave, common amongst riders, changed to a giant raised-arm wave in order to be seen by each other. This journey was a series of never-ending changing landscapes. A constant variety of scenery was always coming into view as the

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THIS JOURNEY WAS A SERIES OF NEVER-ENDING CHANGING LANDSCAPES

miles sped away and kept my photo finger snapping. It was vast and beautiful, uninhabited, but alive. The sun warmed us as the breeze from the bike sped across our cheeks. It was exhilarating. The highway began to rise above the desert floor and we could see what appeared to be not golden sand or green scrub plant life, but a pure white covering. It looked totally familiar, yet completely contrary. It was definitely not snow! Our confusion was soon clarified by the sign “Bonneville Speedway”. We immediately headed in that direction. It was a stunning sight: the blue sky, the sharp outline of the mountains, the black-topped road, and the bright white salt; each detail of this scene was so glaringly defined. We followed the road off the highway towards the markers. After a few photo ops, we hopped back on

the bike and drove to the edge of the actual speedway. It’s really spectacular to be in the middle of the desert on an intensely hot day, and see only white salt for miles in every direction! We walked to the path where the speed testing takes place. The ground felt hard-packed beneath our feet. I had to taste it — yes, it is SALTY! Bernie had another idea; let’s give the bike a chance to break a record. He drove the bike onto the actual testing grounds, but we’ll be honest, no speed feat was accomplished, although it was an experience not to be forgotten. We packed a bit of this famous condiment into a little container for a souvenir, and were on our way once more! The glare of the hot sun on this white expanse of the Utah desert is a sight everyone should see, feel, ride, and taste!

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BACK SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 PIT STOP ƌ RALLY RIDES ƌ ENTHUSIASTS ƌ RIDING STORIES ƌ EXHAUST

YOUNG HAWKS

The next generation of motorcycle riders — like the young hawk — fly from their nests, prepared to face the Harley-Davidson® adventure By Andrew Kasprzak

Inspired by my old friend, a lifelong Harley-Davidson® motorcycle rider and an employee of Freedom Harley-Davidson® of Ottawa, Ontario who witnessed the advent of H.O.G.® right from the beginning. Living in the middle of forest surroundings, near Burnstown, Ontario, I have frequent opportunities to observe the powerful forces of nature in their complete grandeur. In the traditional beliefs of Canadian Aboriginals, who pay homage to the laws of nature, an intermediate contact with wildlife is understood as a personal, exceptional distinction, a lucky

moment, or just a good omen. A hawk, taking flight in the morning sky means that I’ll enjoy a full day of activity and inspiration, while being on the right track in my endeavours. It is an energizing and constructive feeling, and adds lots of strength and optimism. However, nothing can exceed the sight of hawks in the spring, when they take off on their skyhigh excursions accompanied by their young ones. They participate in their trial tours with their parents, practicing the art of independent life skills and secrets of survival to true perfection, with their

ultimate goal leading to the abandonment of their family nests forever. These skills are basically absorbed by the new generation, derived directly from their parents or by social conditioning. The sight of a young hawk, joyously flapping its wings and attempting, in a carefree, easy style, to keep up with mom or dad who majestically glides in space in total stillness, without any effort, is absolutely fascinating. Their stillness leads to a gradual elevation rather than descent — a skill that is difficult for the young learner to master!

I observe their joy and pride in their unlimited freedom, and the visible care and attention they bestow upon their inexperienced, rising generation. Not so long ago, at the beginning of the 1970s, I often visited Wojtek (later the first authorized Harley-Davidson® Retailer in Poland at Green Valley Harley-Davidson® in Warsaw) and the late Malgosia Echilczuk in their cozy, miniature flat in Warsaw, Poland. We spent many long winter evenings there, sipping tea, talking about Harley-Davidson® motorcycles and common friends, planning trips, and dreaming about foreign H.O.G.® rallies. A cradle stood nearby, occupied by the sleeping, newborn baby, Peter. The tweeting of the nestling, usually meaning that something had changed in the status of the clean diaper,

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A HAWK, TAKING FLIGHT IN THE MORNING SKY MEANS THAT I’LL ENJOY A FULL DAY…

was also a good occasion for changing the subject of the swiftly-flowing conversation. Recently, I received a gift from Wojtek — a CD containing an old copy of an 8 millimetre black and white movie from a H.O.G.® Rally in Poland, where a few of us gave a show of “hawk riding” on our 42 WLA motorcycles to the public. I still remember this particular show as if it just happened yesterday: riding my Harley® motorcycle at low speed, I stood with one foot on the solo, spring mounted seat of the bike and, holding the windshield with both hands, I straightened my other leg backwards, successfully attempting to keep it level with the rest of my body. It was always an impressive hit at the games, close to a ballet-like performance, usually ending with the general applause of the public addressed to the Harley® motorcycle riding circus artist. The second part of the CD, the prevailing one, was Wojtek’s joy ride on a quiet boulevard in Warsaw in the company of his son, Peter. They were filmed from the curb and overhead walkways, creating a superior filming concept and a visual effect at the same time, and also making their Harley® motorcycle very photogenic. Wojtek’s face expressed contentment and fatherly

pride. Peter, about four years old, showed extraterrestrial joy, and seemed to fly in his own clouds. “Andrew, why do you stare at this movie like that?” asked my wife Lynnie. “Have you never seen a Harley® [motorcycle] on the street?” “I can see two gliding hawks,” I answered, in my own world of dreams. At the celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Eastern Ontario Chapter in August 2011, which was hosted by Freedom Harley-Davidson® of Ottawa and the Chapter itself, I saw a long-term employee of the Harley-Davidson® Retailer, Doug Taylor with his wife, Janice, whose only son, James, spent most of his youth in the saddle with his dad. He then happily followed the lifelong path of his father, and has been a devoted Harley® motorcycle rider ever since his teens. It was very reminiscent for me to hear that the hawk diligently fulfilled his natural mandate, and that the younger breed, like some others of his peers in Canada, had already flown away from his nest, superbly prepared to face the ultimate Harley-Davidson® adventure. H.O.G.® Canada is in good hands. The rest is just minor, social conditioning.

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BACK SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 PIT STOP ƌ RALLY RIDES ƌ ENTHUSIASTS ƌ RIDING STORIES ƌ EXHAUST

I BELONG

Behavioural consultant finds a match for her clients — and herself — in the freedom, personal power, and belonging of riding a Harley Davidson® motorcycle. By Karmen Krahn Schulties THE SOCIAL FIT Every year, we’ve made our biggest bike trips with other people. I have no qualms with a gravel shoulder on a mountain switchback at dusk, yet the thought of 23 days with six other people makes my heart pound. As in childhood, I have no need to share the Grand Canyon with anyone. In fact, when someone comes alongside me to chat about the vista, I am inclined to find a new spot. Unlike a car trip, where the expectation of conversation is incessant, we can ride in a convoy of eight bikes and every one of my social needs are met. I belong. I am loved. I fit. These are my people. Our riding gear signifies our method of travel and our love for the Harley-Davidson® Brand. Our clothing is unifying. With so few needs for membership or belonging, this was a rare and satisfying discovery — I belong.

I work with children with cognitive disabilities like autism. As a behaviour consultant, much of my work is spent finding ways to smooth the fit between sensitive kids and this prickly world. Sometimes the trick is personal approach, sometimes it’s specialized equipment, and sometimes the trick is surprisingly ordinary. Who would’ve thought that motorcycle riding would be a fit for autism? You see, I have autism too. I have a form of autism called Asperger’s Syndrome. Asperger’s is named after the Austrian guy who discovered it in 1944, although an “ass burger” is a much funnier picture. Like many of my clients, I’ve been on a forty-year quest; trying to behave appropriately, while finding ways to feel more comfortable in this chaotic, over-stimulating social world. Nearly a decade ago, I found a biker and fell in love, twice — first with him, then with biking. Biking was a fit for who I am. To describe how Harley-Davidson® motorcycles and autism are a fit, I should first describe autism’s key symptoms. Some talk, some don’t. Some will play beside other children, others flee like they’re on fire, and still others crave friendship, but always manage to screw it up. As autism is a spectrum disorder, these symptoms show up differently in different people. What soothes one person is a massive irritant to another. Some have a high tolerance for sensory input, craving intense feedback, while others have a low tolerance, and nearly vibrate with anxiety. Some show exceptional intellect in a particular area, yet still have tantrums in their 30s. The key features of my autism are social indifference, theory of mind deficit, sensory processing, and feeling lost in space and time. Knowing where we are in space is a cognitive skill called “proprioceptivity”, and proprioception has everything to do with how to handle a two-wheeled, 800-pound machine.

THE THEORY OF MIND FIT Theory of mind is the ability to think from someone else’s perspective. It is the aptitude for listening in two ways at once: listening to what the person is saying, and listening in relation to who you know them to be. A common test for theory of mind is hiding a ball in the presence of a puppet. Then, removing the puppet, the examiner hides the ball in a new place. A child without autism will answer that the puppet will think the ball is in the first hiding place. A child with autism will think that the puppet will know what he knows — that the ball has been moved. Theory of mind deficits mean you think everybody thinks exactly like you do, even if you haven’t shared the same experiences. Put that together with a big vocabulary, intense interests, and face blindness and you have what looks like arrogance. In a convoy of motorbikes, the complexity of normal, non-verbal communication is polished like chrome – clear and to the point — because concise communication is sometimes a safety matter. Theory of mind becomes a lesser requirement when there’s such good sign language going on. Although cursed with a big vocabulary and a penchant for monologues, my preferred method of communication is wordless. I much prefer symbols and signs, brief statements, body language, and gestures. Is this not the mother tongue of motorcycling? My husband knows exactly what I mean when I squeeze him with my thighs. When his ears come up, I know he’s smiling. Even the Road King® motorcycle has its own voice. One brief rev at a stoplight indicates that Kevin is about to release the clutch. A deep snarl of the pipes tells the car behind us that it’s following too close. When someone fails to understand that gesture, a middle finger usually does the trick. Among our riding group, we have established signs for gas, bathroom, and “let’s eat”, plus all the spontaneous ones like “boy, it’s hot”, “did you see the mountain goat?”, and “that rock continues on next page formation looks like boobs”.

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You know what you want, and this is the year you’ll tell them where to get it. Go to harleycanada.com. Make a wish list. Then share it with anybody getting you gifts to make it easy for them. Take back the holidays from the mall traps of long lines and ugly returns and revive the power of holiday cheer.

FPO

NO MALLS. NO CAGES.

New Men’s Legend Leather Midweight Riding Jacket #98025-12VM 1/4 Zip Sweater #96574-12VM Color Shop Custom Paint: Limited Laguna The Bar & Shield logo, Harley and Harley-Davidson are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC. ©2011 H-D.

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BACK SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 PIT STOP ƌ RALLY RIDES ƌ ENTHUSIASTS ƌ RIDING STORIES ƌ EXHAUST

THE SENSORY FIT There are two ways to measure sensory processing: one is tolerance, the other is motivation. Tolerance has to do with how much sensory input we need to feel comfortable. Motivation is the energy to do something about it. People who are highly motivated to make their world comfortable do what needs to be done — they invest in the biggest sub woofers and strong coffee. They are known to be bear huggers and “work hard, play hard” is their motto. The sensory needs of people with low motivation are just as important, but they seem less willing to make things happen for themselves. These folks may

THE FINDING MYSELF FIT Good proprioceptivity belongs to that person known to have a good sense of direction. In order to know where you’re going, you must have some sense of where you are. This is a known autistic deficit. The vestibular sense is comfort with where the head is, in relation to the ground; that is, equilibrium and balance. Proprioceptivity is the awareness of where we are in relation to dangerous, friendly, and neutral things. It is the awareness of where the pavement drops off, the travelling distance between bikes, the width of handlebars, and how close to stand when having a conversation at the gas bar. In a very mechanical way, I have worked to appear normal; operating more on rules than intuition when it comes to social conduct. As a driver, this has proven just as difficult. I did not get my licence until I was in my twenties. Why? In typical autistic obsession, I preferred a pedal bike. I was virtually fearless on the road, a daily commuter in Winnipeg and Chicago’s rush hour traffic. Something about being in the open regulated that sense of not knowing where I am in relation to other things. And so, that is why becoming a motorbike rider has made me a far better driver overall. When I’m on a motorbike, I have a better sense of direction, and a keen awareness of things around me, moving or not. A convoy of bikes feels like a single organism, moving in tandem in response to road conditions, traffic, and each other — and I am a part of it. All told, motor biking is the right therapy for my disability, a short-term fix for my discomfort and a long-term match for basic needs like love, belonging, freedom, and personal power. But because autism is a spectrum disorder, it doesn’t work to prescribe motor biking for everyone. While I am trained to assess behaviour for its function, what follows is purely hunch and suggestion. Knowing how my life was one long procedure of trial and error, I am quick to advise people to simply watch their children. Through their behaviour, even non-verbal children give us clues about their preferred world. Here’s a trick: note which carnival rides a child prefers. Note whether they climb off Uncle Larry’s Heritage SoftailTM motorcycle vibrating with anxiety, or staying absolutely mellow. What do they beg for? Which of their requests sound like life and death? It makes me wonder how many grown-ups are riding around on Harley® motorcycles, inadvertently meeting their sensory needs.

IN ONE WAY, MOTORCYCLING IS A FORM OF SENSORY DEPRIVATION.

bark orders, sit powerlessly, suffer in silence, and sleep a lot. The first group pursues, the second group avoids. I have variable needs for sensory input, and I go out of my way to make the world a fit for me; 9,000 km in 23 days on a motorcycle meets all of my sensory needs, and is a very active way to “get back into my skin”. In one way, motorcycling is a form of sensory deprivation. I wear earplugs, never headphones. Denim and leather are impenetrable: shielding me from rain, wind, and conversation. With no armrests and limited foot position, I am forced to be mindful of core strength, which means all of my muscles must work in tandem. I dismount the bike feeling both invigorated and calm, which, in occupational therapy terms, is regulation of the brain’s vestibular system. On the other hand, motor biking is a form of tremendous sensory input. It is the work of an occupational therapist to recommend things like “deep pressure therapy” for people whose bad behaviour is linked to a sensory need. From head to toe, so much of road life is deep pressure. A bandana seems to iron my scalp onto my skull. The helmet screws my head back onto my shoulders. My big clunky Harley® boots make me feel tall and powerful, nearly androgynous. In my boots, I feel grounded on this fast-spinning planet. A leather jacket broadens my shoulders and hugs my waist. Occupational therapists use equipment that is astonishingly similar to what is sold in bike shops – head wraps, ankle weights, weighted vests, binding blankets, and something that looks like wearable saddlebags. I can think of no better therapy than chaps; movement where it needs to be, weight and warmth everywhere else. Temperature and wind are known triggers for people with autism, and that makes for a tricky element at highway speed through the mountains. My fix is a heated jacket. I’ll even wear it in the hot sun. At first, I lied about my use of it, saying that I was only wearing it and that it wasn’t turned on. Fed up with the teasing, I finally told the group, “look, if I’m wearing it, it’s on”. When the sunshine equals the temperature of the electric jacket, I take it off and ride as naked as possible through the Arizona desert.

Unlike a closed vehicle, my body is able to experience the subtle shifts in environment — humidity, light and shadow, temperature in relation to altitude — and sense the time through my skin, not my watch. In perfect synchrony, sight, smell, and feel present themselves collectively, unlike a closed car that splits these beautiful features apart. Smelling flowers at highway speed signals the need to look for them, to breathe deep, and smile.

June Rhin Colo

hog® magazine canada

The B

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Don’t take chances with your gifts. Go to harleycanada.com. Make your wish list. Then share it with anybody shopping for you and make it real easy for them. Let’s take back the holidays from the traditional mall traps of long lines and ugly returns and celebrate the return of holiday cheer.

FPO

NO MALLS. NO CAGES.

Juneau Leather Jacket,Juneau 98019-12VW New Women’s Leather Jacket #98019-12VW Rhinestone Turtleneck Sweater,Laguna 96112-12VW ColorEmbellished Shop Custom Paint: Limited Color Shop Custom Paint: Limited Laguna H-D, Harley-Davidson, and the Bar & Shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC.

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BACK SHOP / DECEMBER 2011 PIT STOP ƌ RALLY RIDES ƌ ENTHUSIASTS ƌ RIDING STORIES ƌ EXHAUST

THE TAO OF GROHL

Ever wonder what would happen if one of the most highly regarded Rock photographers of our day took some footage of one of the most highly acclaimed Rock stars of our day as he rode around and talked about his love of Harley® motorcycles? We did, so we made it happen I first started riding about 20 years ago, when this punk rock band I was in came [to Los Angeles], before Nirvana. The singer and guitar player were brothers, and their sister was a mud wrestler at the Hollywood Tropicana. She lived in this house with a bunch of other mud wrestlers in Laurel Canyon, and … we had no money when we came here [so] we would sleep on her floor. One of the “dancers” had this Honda Rebel [motorcycle], I think it was, and it was just

sittin’ there drippin’ oil in the garage. So I would ride around at night through the Hills, and I’d look at these big houses and wonder, “I wonder what band lives in that one”. I’d ride around all night, and I’d wake up in the morning, and my eyes would be so swollen and just filled with bugs from riding around all night dreaming about being in a band that made it … and having a motorcycle … and riding around the Hills in Los Angeles. Every time I ride around the Hills

[now], I think about when I was [young], dreaming about riding around the hills in Los Angeles on a real bike. One of the coolest things about Harley-Davidson® motorcycles [is] the attention to detail the Harley® people focus on. I was amazed when we went to their headquarters and Factory on this Willy Wonka tour. The room where they test the sound … it’s this massive, massive room about the size of [a] warehouse, acoustically treated so it’s

soundproof. We walked in there, and they had a bike in the middle of the room and [around] the perimeter of the room was, like, 50 to 100 microphones, all pointed at the bike. That’s where they tweak the sound of the bikes, you know? Because each one has to have “that” sound. For a guy in a band who has his own studio and pays a lot [of] attention to everything “sonic”, that was pretty cool. I don’t know how many people [get to] do that, but I was blown away.

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FPO

Winter is good for one thing: Getting your motorcycle ready for the spring. Spend $2000 on Genuine Motor Parts and Accessories and receive a $200 Harley-Davidson® gift card or spend $3000 and receive a $500 Harley-Davidson® gift card. Accessorize your bike this winter, and show it off in the spring. This limited time offer ends February 28, 2012.

*With a minimum $2,000 purchase (before applied taxes) of Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories and Screamin’ Eagle® Performance Parts, Customers receive a $200 Harley-Davidson® gift card or with a minimum $3,000 purchase (before applied taxes) of Genuine Motor Parts & AccessoriesTM and Screamin’ Eagle® Performance Parts, Customers receive a $500 Harley-Davidson® gift card for future purchases. This offer cannot be combined with other existing promotional offers. Promotions ends February 28, 2012. The Bar & Shield logo, Harley, Harley-Davidson and Softail are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC. ©2011 H-D.

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