Born To Ride Florida Motorcycle Magazine #31

CONTENTS Issue #31 December 2006

F E AT U R E S Brandon HD Grand Opening Fashion For Bikers Trail of Tears Thunder By The Bay Jamie James Giving Spirit of Bikers Trailer Trash Biker Christmas Deputy Matt Williams Ride Space Coast HD Party West Coast Bike Rally and Peggy’s

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CO L U M N S John MacKay Women’s World Your Financial Tune-Up Safety Zone Hank Madden Radical Report Mean Streets Spike the Riding/Writing Parrot Dr. Donna CMA

D E PA RT M E N T S Page 3 Girl BTR News Endless Asphault Good Guys Dream Team Test Ride Rogue’s Tech Tip Coming Next Month...

Advertiser Index BTR Kids Slick’s Scooter Schedule

R E P O RT S Featured Bike Night BTR’s Hottest Bike Night Lucas Oil Industry Report UPARC Leigh Nolan Run Shop Profile - Cycle Alley Hooters Bike Night Great Teddy Bear Run No Rules - Santiago Bobber Quaker Steak Biker Bash

ON THE COVER Thunder by the Bay Designed by Born To Ride

866-617-7473 S t a r t B o r n To R i d e T V a n d M a g a z i n e i n y o u r c i t y !

C a l l 8 1 3 - 6 6 1 - 9 4 0 2 To d a y !

-"The information contained herein is provided by Born to Ride Magazine or by its advertisers. BTR makes every effort to present accurate and reliable information in the issue. Born to Ride Magazine does not endorse, approve, or certify such information, nor does it guarantee the accuracy, completeness, efficacy, timeliness or correct sequencing of such information throughout this magazine. Use of such information is voluntary on your part, and reliance on it should only be undertaken after your independent review. Reference herein to any specific manufacturer, company, commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, service mark, or otherwise does not constitute or imply endorsement of or recommendation of said by Born to Ride Magazine." "Born to Ride Magazine (including its employees, contributors and agents) assumes no responsibility for consequences that may result from the use of the information herein, including the use of the information obtained at www.borntoride.com and it's linked sites, or in any respect for the content of such information, including (but not limited to) errors or omissions, the accuracy or reasonableness of factual or scientific assumptions, studies or conclusions, ownership of copyright or other intellectual property rights, and the violation of property, privacy, or personal rights of others. BTR Magazine is not responsible for damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on such information. No guarantees or warranties, including (but not limited to) any express or implied warranties are made by BTR Magazine with respect to such information contained throughout the site." No part may be copied without written permission of the publisher, Born to Ride, Inc. P.O. Box 3021, Brandon, FL 33509. 813-661-9402, Fax 813-689-2996.

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FLORIDA BIKER LAWYER John MacKay got it through the state legislature in 10 months. Now law enforcement personnel at the scene of an accident can scan a driver’s license and obtain emergency contact information.

Check out toinformfamiliesfirst.com for more details. It’s for Tiff - To Inform Families First. =======================

JOHN MACKAY, FLORIDA BIKER LAWYER (866-HOGLAW1 / WWW.HOGLAW1.COM) On December 7th of last year Tiffiany Marie Olson and Dustin Wilder were riding to Quaker Steak when they were taken out by a careless driver who ran a stop sign.

Friends of Tiff’s got word to her mom who rushed to the hospital at midnight, only to find that no one there knew anything.

At 1:30 a.m. an FHP trooper approached Tiff’s mom in the hospital parking lot, handed her an evidence bag containing one broken earring, lip gloss, a watch, and a toe ring, and said “We’re sorry, she’s gone.” Tiff had died 6 hours earlier. Dustin survived briefly, but he died before anyone got word to his family.

Tiff’s mom is Christine Olson. She knew there had to be a better way to notify families that their loved ones had been hurt. She began a petition drive to get emergency contact information on our driver’s licenses. She pressed hard and

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DID HE THINK THEY’D BELIEVE HIM?: Curtis Osborne is on death row for the murder of Linda Seaborne and Arthur Jones. Here’s a synopsis of what he told the police:Osborne denied any involvement in the shootings and consented to a gun residue test. He informed the police that the test would be positive for gun residue because he fed his dog gunpowder on a daily basis. Osborne explained that the blood under his cuticles was the result of a hangnail. He also told police that his fingerprints could be on the car in which the victims were found because he had ridden in the car a week earlier . . . and Seaborne asked him to move her car from one parking spot to another. Osborne provided police with the clothes he was wearing on the day of the murders, but he told the police that his mother previously had washed the clothes in bleach.

I don’t know whether we should execute this guy or elect him!

THANK YOU ABATE: I got a little pissy toward the end of the election season

when I received ABATE’s Voters’ Guide for Motorcycle Friendly Candidates. I didn’t think they were careful in their recommendations. Well, I was wrong. It turns out the folks at ABATE put a lot of work into the whole process, including surveys of all candidates and examinations of voting records. ABATE has our interests at heart. ABATE is us.

2007 BUB MOTORCYCLE SPEED TRIALS: Competitors from around the world will meet on Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats September 2 – 6, 2007 . The 2006 event saw a new absolute motorcycle land speed record: 350 mph!

THANKS TO OLD TOWN HD: The Grand Opening November 11 drew more than 6,000 bikes and more than 10,000 people.

I’ve never seen another dealership like this one - the people are wonderful and the facility is amazing. Now if we could just get the steer down here . . .

NOT FORGOTTEN: Xmas without Gypsy – not how it was supposed to be. I miss him.

BELLA LORENA: Vi ho avuto un anno meraviglioso con. Sto avendovi una vita meravigliosa con. Grazie, il mio amore.

John MacKay is co-publisher of Born To Ride Magazine and a Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer. His office is in Tampa and he has served Florida’s bikers throughout the state for many years. © John MacKay 2006

BORN TO RIDE

BORN TO RIDE NEWS HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Magazine

THE GYPSY RIDE - SUNDAY, JAN 28TH 2007

Happy Holidays to all of our readers everywhere.

Have a safe and happy holiday season.

Remember our men and women in the Armed Forces protecting freedom around the world who aren’t home with their families this holiday season. See the Giving Spirit of Bikers story in this issue and you will see how we really feel about what you guys do. Have a Happy New Year and let’s make 2007 another great year!

PO BOX 3021 Brandon FL 33509

813 661 9402 FX 813 689 2996

dacrew@borntoride.com PUBLISHER Ron Galletti

CO PUBLISHER John W MacKay

EDITOR Deb Galletti

COPY EDITOR Mike Savidge

LA HANGOUT The LA Hangout in Tampa is one of the most popular Thursday night Bike Nights around. Here is a photo of Alex, who is a past Bike of the Month Please mark your calendars for Sunday, Jan 28th, Winner. See their ad on page 36.

2007 for the Gypsy Ride to benefit the American Diabetes Association. We lost Gypsy this year to diabetes and this annual ride will be a way to bring awareness to diabetes and to never forget our friend, Gypsy. (More info on page 37.)

BILLY LANE CRASH VICTIM ALSO IMPAIRED According to a report by Florida Today, Gerry Morelock, was also driving under the influence when he was struck and killed by a pickup truck driven by motorcycle builder Billy Lane. The Florida Highway Patrol reported that Morelock’s blood alcohol content was .133 while Lane’s was .192. The legal limit is .08. Lane has been charged with driving under the influence manslaughter, driving with a suspended license and driving under the influence with serious bodily injuries.

Send you news to dacrew@borntoride.com

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jim Miller

ART DIRECTOR & LAYOUT Bob White

OFFICE MANAGEMENT AD COORDINATOR Nick Betlow

GRAPHIC DESIGN Bob White, Hope Corsette, Nick Betlow

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION BILLING ACCTS PAYABLE Nancy Ray

SALES MANAGER/DISTRIBUTION Mark Waters

PROOF READING Nancy Ray,Val Smith

BTR KIDS DEPARTMENT Emily & Little Ronnie STAFF WRITERS

John MacKay, Bill McDaniel, Hank Madden, Jim Miller, Miserable George, Craven Morehead, Mike Savidge, Rob Schwellinger, Doug Slick, Geri McGurk, Spike & Mike, Valerie Smith, Crash, Don Disney, Jerry the Motorman

CONTRIBUTORS

Vivian Baker, Neale Bayly, John Sagraves, Rogue, Lynda Hood,Rene Hogarth, Kurt Z, Wallace Clark, Tommy Pittard,Paul Garson, and you !

PHOTOGRAPHERS Jim Miller, Dave Perich, The Duck & Chief, ccbikeart.biz, Bruce Berman, Scott Odell,Rene Hogarth, Big Louie, Pete Bartoles, Valerie Smith, Mark Waters,Demo Don Landers, Tommy Pittard, Mike Savidge

WEB DESIGN Wayne Kohl

MARKETING WEB DEVELOPMENT Dave Perich

EVENTS UPDATE Doug Slick

PAGE 3 GIRL Big Dog Motorcycles of Tampa

Happy Holidays from Born To Ride

LEGAL REPRESENTATION John W. MacKay 866-HOGLAW1 PROMOTIONS & MC

Radical Randy, Craven Moorehead, Big Louie,Party Patti, Hippie John Johnny Roberts We are looking for quality people who want to be part of our team.

CALL (813) 661-9402

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Womens World - Diva Angels

T

he second annual Diva Angel Gulf Coast Chapter Poker Run benefiting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation is in the record books and what a record it was!! Starting with a gorgeous sunny and clear day was a great first step. Registration and first stop at Hap’s Cycle in Sarasota was phenomenal and we doubled the amount signed up from last year. After the second stop at Crazy Ted’s in Bradenton the third stop was a scenic nature route through Myakka State Park. The final stop and party at Hoosier’s was packed and featured a record 48 gift bags all raffled off plus primo silent auction items including a party bus for the night which holds 20 people and got auctioned off for $650!! One monumental along with inspirational donation came from the winner of one of the largest 50/50 drawings in our area

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which totaled $1,200! Half went to the winner which was $600 and won by Howard Nelson, a member of CMA. Even though he has just had two children of his own recently, he donated 100% of the proceeds back in the name of Gary and Beth Neilson who tragically lost a newborn to a brain tumor only three short days from birth. Diva Angels would like to personally thank Howard for such a wonderful, thoughtful and kind gesture of the donation.

The kids truly appreciate everyone’s support and donations. The final year end Ride For Kids benefiting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation was held in Sarasota Sunday, November 5th. The ride started at Sarasota County Technical Instituteand traveled through Myakka State Park and the surrounding area with police escort.

Celebration of life program followed the ride. The GRAND PRIZE:

Gulf Coast Chapter Poker Run, A Great Success

Marsha Wolak

A Honda Motorcycle!! With your help, Diva Angels have raised over $12,000. We presented the check to the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. Again, thank you to all our sponsors, supporters and each and every rider who came out and joined us for a great time benefiting an even greater cause. A special thanks goes out to Sarasota Ford for not only being a top Angel level sponsor of our event for the second year in a row but holding their first ever DIVA ANGEL BIKE NIGHT to assist with our efforts to raise money for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation! It featured a DJ playing music, food, raffles including 3 day 2 night all expense vacations, free service for a year, IPOD, digital camera free weekend mustang rentals and more! They also had a special promotion for a month before the event up until our poker run on October 15th if anyone

bought a new or used vehicle and brought in the Diva Angel poker run flyer they would donate an additional $250 per vehicle. Bob Poneleit, owner of Haps Honda in Sarasota did just that!! Thank you Bob and Sarasota Ford!!!! Sarasota Ford has already commited to holding the second annual DIVA ANGEL BIKE NITE next year so please watch for the date and come and join! Hope to see all of you at next year’s poker run! PLease mark your calendars for Sunday, October 14th, 2007 rain or shine!!!

For more information on the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation and any upcoming rides check the BTR website or please call 800253-6530 or visit www.rideforkids.org

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F E AT U R E D B I K E N I G H T

BTR’S HOTTEST BIKE NIGHTS

Peggy’s Corral

Presented by

Support the bike nights that support Born To Ride!

M O N D AY Beef O’Brady’s • Wesley Chapel 27315 State Rd 54 813-994-1511

T U E S D AY Aces Lounge • Bradenton 4343 Palma Sola Blvd. 941-795-3886 UA Hangout • Tampa 2025 E. Fowler Ave 813-977-2683 Hooters • Sarasota 6507 S. Tamiami Trail 941-923-4666 Robiconti’s Rockhouse Grill • Tampa 9331 Adamo Dr. 813-740-8020 Van Dyke Texaco • Tampa 17804 Dale Mabry Hwy N 813-964-9442 Garrett’s Place • Apollo Beach 5813 US Hwy 41 813-645-7730

W E D N E S D AY Quaker Steak & Lube • Pinellas Park 10400 49th St 727-572-9464 Prowlerz • New Port Richey 74340 US HWY 19 N. 727-841-9597 Hooters • Bradenton 4908 West 14th St 941-758-1175 Papa Joe’s • Sarasota 1242 Whitfield Ave 941-727-0820 Captain Jacks • Riverview 9409 Hwy 301 South 813-671-2595 Club Atmosphere • Homosassa 5792 S. Suncoast Blvd 352-628-6910 (last Wednesday of the Month)

T H U R S D AY LA Hangout • Lutz 16411 N. Florida Ave 813-964-5631 Hooters • Pt.Charlotte 1360 Tamiami Trail 941-625-0200

F R I D AY Peggy’s Corral • Palmetto 4511 US 41 North 941-729-5442

S AT U R D AY Haines City Bike Fest • Downtown 4th saturday of each month Plant City Bikefest • Downtown 1st Sat., each Month 813-754-3707 Lake Wales Bike Fest • Downtown Lake Wales 863-676-2004 2nd Sat. of month Steel Wheel Saloon • Ocala 3750 S. Pine Ave 352-402-9167

S U N D AY Peggy’s Corral • Palmetto 4511 US 41 North 941-729-5442

E V E RY D AY !

Peggy’s Corral • Palmetto 4511 US 41 North 941-729-5442 Mama D’s • Tampa 7551 W. Waters 813-881-9118 Alachua Sports Pub • Alachua 14003 NW 150th Ave 386-462-5333

Get your Bike Night Listed!

813-661-9402 Peggy’s Corral is the place to be 7 days a week. Friday Nights from 8pm -12am and Sunday’s all day is dedicated to Bikers! Peggy’s is biker friendly 7 days a week! Always cold Bud! 4511 US 41 North, Palmetto Call 941-729-5442 for more information or visit www.peggyscorral.com

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B O R N TO R I D E . C O M

Responsibility Matters

YOUR FINANCIAL TUNE-UP

A

reader recently asked me how the movement of the U.S. dollar against other currencies around the world affected our economy and his investments. He explained that he’s going to Europe later this year for the first time and was very surprised at the exchange rate; how little his U.S. dollar will buy in Euros. It’s an important concept to understand as we become more of a global economy. As always, I cannot possibly cover every aspect of this topic in this column, but hope to give a general idea of the movement of the dollar and how it can affect our economy.

Before the Euro debut in 2002, the U.S. dollar was the world’s currency of choice in international trade. Economies around the world recognized our currency as very secure and safe. However, since 2004, the U.S. dollar has been on a steady decline against other world currencies, in particular the Euro. In 2002 twelve European currencies came together to create one, the Euro, which moved the world closer towards a truly global economy. Over time it became a currency that has shown international investors that the U.S. dollar is no longer the only strong currency in the world.

This brings up an important point; that investors who have been shy about investing internationally might want to rethink their strategies. The globalization trend is growing and it’s important to recognize its importance.

Typically people think a weak dollar is bad and a strong dollar is good. However, there are really benefits to both. A strong dollar is good for U.S. consumers who buy foreign goods. With a strong dollar, U.S. consumers and companies can buy more of a foreign product at a cheaper price. On the flip side, a strong dollar hurts U.S. exporters whose goods and services are more expensive for the rest of the world. Those buyers may look to another source to get the most for their money. With a weak dollar, U.S. exporters benefit due to demand from around the world as international buyers can buy more of our products and services. However, a weak dollar limits U.S. consumers by not being able to buy foreign goods at a good price.

The movement of the dollar is significant when looking at the balance of trade; that is the difference between exports and imports in the economy over a period of time.

There are many things that can affect the value of any nation’s currency, but perhaps inflation is the most important. When inflation is on the rise it erodes the value of a country’s currency as well as consumer spending. Inflation, which is defined as too many dollars chasing too many goods, pushes prices higher and diminishes the value of the currency. While inflation is a big factor in why the dollar moves up and down against other currencies, it’s not the only reason. Other scenarios that can make a currency move up or down are things such as political unrest, changes inside governments and tax-related law changes to name just a few.

International investors now have several solid economies and currencies to invest in. For this reason it might be a good idea to sit down with your advisor to determine if incorporating international exposure into your portfolio is a good idea. It’s important that you understand that there is additional risk when investing internationally, therefore, it’s very important to work with your financial advisor to make sure it’s appropriate for you.

Happy holidays and Happy New Year to you and yours! Ride safe and I’ll see you in the wind!

Geri M. McGurk, CFP™ Vice President, Investment Consultant SunTrust Investment Services Inc. Geri.McGurk@suntrust.com Securities and Insurance Products and Services Are: Not FDIC or any other government agency Insured Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value Securities, insurance and other investment products and services are offered by or through SunTrust Investment Services, Inc. a SEC registered investment advisor and broker/dealer affiliate of SunTrust Banks, Inc., and a member of the NASD and SIPC.

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SAFETY ZONE Don’t avoid the dark side of riding

WALLACE “DUDE” CLARK

W

hen teaching safe motorcycle riding, I’ve often found that many students seem to miss the point of the total biking experience. In their minds, they see themselves riding on those perfect sunny days, zooming down an open highway with a bit of a breeze, no traffic in sight, no construction or obstructions; while looking good in the saddle. I suppose we all want that.

And that’s what we get…at times. However, there are days when the heat is so suffocating and blistering that you feel like you’re turning into a piece of beef jerky; or the rain is soaking you down to your marrow; or it seems that every vehicle on the road is aiming for your butt. That’s the way it goes, I say to newbies.

Although I can teach students how to use the controls, the importance of safe riding strategies, what to expect and how to prepare for the unexpected; I can’t teach them “feelings.”

During classes, I’ve fielded questions such as: “Don’t you sweat while wearing a helmet and long-sleeved shirt when it’s hot?” (Yes.) “What do you do when it rains?” (Get wet.) “What do you do at night?” (I ride.)

Too many beginners will never “get it” because they want that perfect riding experience that lives mostly in their minds, and they want it every time. That’s not going to happen!

I’ve found that most beginners are spoiled because, although they want to become bikers, they still want amenities like they have in their vehicles, such as: air conditioning and heater, cup holders, a CD player with stereo sound, air bags, GPS units, makeup mirror, cappuccino maker and a bidet. (Okay, maybe I stretched it a bit to make a point.)

I want to scream, “Listen up, people! If you truly want to be biker dudes or biker babes, stop thinking like wussies!”

During my many two-wheeled years, I learned that biking is challenging and somewhat tough at times but I don’t let negatives override positives. As in my life, I’ve never let less-than-perfect riding conditions deter me from riding my bike. Sure, I temper my decisions with a dash of good sense in that I won’t ride during a hurricane, but I will ride immediately before and after a storm, but I can usually handle almost everything else.

I found that most new riders avoid riding at night, women riders in particular. (Hey, don’t call me a sexist pig; I’m just reporting statistics gleaned from a recent scientific survey…done

by me.) Day-trippers miss half the fun of riding when they limit themselves to only sunshine rides.

In South Florida, the night time is the right time for making love. (Whoops! I lost my focus for a moment.) When the neon lights come to life, there’s less traffic, the temperature drops a smidgen and bikers look even cooler than they actually are.

Night riding isn’t particularly unsafe, but riding skills must not be allowed to slide. Like I always say: “Don’t let the thrills cause you to ignore your skills.” (Copyrighted insight but you may quote me.) I also say: “Use good sense, assuming you had any to begin with.”

I know you can’t see as far at night, so safety minded bikers should slow down a notch or two and not override his or her fine hiney. Cover your controls at intersections and don’t speed through because that only means you will die quicker if someone blows a traffic signal. Be ready to brake, downshift or up shift as needed to avoid a drunk or other impaired driver. (Drunks and vampires seem to thrive at night but boozers are much more dangerous than blood-sucking hickey givers.)

Stop in first gear and stay in the right-hand portion of your lane so you will have room to blast off and escape if you see a sleepy driver loaming large in your rearview mirror. You never want to become the filling in a sandwich.

Always maintain a margin of safety, meaning that you want lots of air around you at all times. A good biker should act like an elitist and not become part of the four-wheeled herd. Make your own space, dudes and dudettes, and you do that by accelerating (not necessarily speeding) and lane positioning.

Be especially vigilant at night to avoid potholes and other obstacles in your path. If you don’t have room to swerve to avoid an obstacle, make sure you know the proper procedure to surmount it. Roll on your throttle a bit as you approach the obstacle (you don’t want to chug down when you’re on it) and roll off your throttle as your front tire hits it. Then accelerate again and be on your way.

Most important: get your ass off the seat when crossing an obstacle so your bike doesn’t hit you in the butt because that could toss you off the bike, cause you to lose control, or bruise your coccyx. (That would be your tail bone. You bruise that tender baby and you’ll be riding on an inflated rubber donut for months.)

When the sun goes down where I live and the neon is coming to life, I gear up, mount up and hit the streets. I know I look good and everyone I meet looks good. (One of the advantages of low lighting.)

At night, many alleged bikers are sitting on the sofa at home with a TV remote in one hand and a beer in the other. Sometimes, I think they sit on their bikes in the garage, make motorcycle noises with their mouths and imagine riding on perfect days.

Meanwhile, real bikers are taking advantage of the total riding experience and when faced with challenges, large or small; they make adjustments and ride around or through them, but never avoid them because of minor adversities.

I’m actually glad wussie bikers stay at home at night because that leaves more streets where I can play in the blur of neon lights. The nighttime really is the right time for making love and, uh, bike riding. I’d hate to make a choice between the two, but I’d choose the former. Hey, I’m a biker, not a fool.

Keep it upright.

If you have questions, comments or suggestions for future articles, e-mail Dude at wrclark2@comcast.net.

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TALKING ABOUT THE ROAD Hank Madden

“ I ride an old paint, I lead an old Dan I’m goin to Montana to throw the houlihan They feed in the coulees, they water in the draw. Their tails are all matted, there backs are all raw.” That was a song I learned as a young man in Connecticut, and inspired me to go to Montana—which attempted to do in the fifties. I got as far as Newcastle, Wyoming and ran out of money. Since then, I have been in the big sky country many times.

So here I am rolling along on the”Dutches” with Cody, Wyoming in my rear view mirror. I’m headed to one of my favorite little towns—Red Lodge, Montana. Red Lodge has refused to become homogenized like the rest of the country.

It doesn’t even have a McDonalds or Burger King. But what it does have is the Iron Horse Rodeo. I was about a month early— so I decided to camp next to Rock Creek, a couple of miles out of town at a small camp ground at the foot of the Beartooth Mountain range. What a beautiful spot— shade trees and crystal clear water that sang me to sleep every night.

Leo and his wife run the satellite Harley shop in Red Lodge, which is owned by the dealership in Billings, 50 miles

north. The rodeo takes place at the rodeo grounds where many a championship has been won, and lost riding bulls and broncs.

This is a well organized rally, and the games are the best I have seen anywhere. Round the barrels, bike racing with a twist—you race to the first oil barrel with a glass of beer on it, and you must stop, put your kick stand down, hop off, chug the beer and then continue the race. After doing that a few times, it just doesn’t matter if you crash and burn. The winner of each event is handed a crisp one hundred dollar bill.

This is a 4 day party, with many events.

On Thursday night at a little bar on the road to Billings, was mud wrestling—not pudding—but real red Montana mud. And to top it off it began to rain just as the women contenders clashed.

Mud was everywhere, even on my camera lens. What a blast, they know how to play hard in Montana.

I met a biker there who had an encounter with a prong horn antelope on his way to Billings about a year ago. They hide in the tall grass in the gully by the side of the road, which makes them very hard to spot, and just at the wrong time,

they dart across the road, and SMACK! But instead of jamming the binders and doing a”slide for life” he grabbed a hand full and hit the prong broadside, sending the antelope over the handlebars and onto his lap, which put him into a nice wobble— but he didn’t go down—amazing! What a picture—sitting on the side of the road with a bloody prong horn in you lap.

He was thankful it wasn’t an elk. Amen!

I should mention that a week before the rally started, the town puts on a parade that kicks off the real rodeo, which takes place just before the Iron Horse Rodeo.

Cowboys and Indians, stage coaches and marching bands filled the air with music and applaudes when an old biker dressed in an American flag with a paint job on his Harley to match his outfit. I like this town.

Sunday morning a large group of bikers gathered at Leo’s shop for the annual poker run. It’s about an 80 mile run up through the Beartooth mountains and then loops back around to Red Lodge. This piece of road has been called the most beautiful in the United States. It is breathtaking.

It climbs to about 8,000 feet. One 2 mile section is nothing but switch-backs.

If you go off the edge in some places, you had better have a parachute. I had gone ahead so I could film them coming up the steep grade. What a view! It’s the same sensation as flying. And of course with this poker run comes good news and bad news—at least for some. You see, in Red Lodge, it’s summer, in the 80’s, so many of the first time riders over the mountain didn’t know that at 8,000 ft. they would freeze their buns off. But the worse was yet to come. Yep, the clouds moved in and mother nature would now humble those who weren’t prepared. Rain, mixed with snow. I was already back in Red Lodge where it was raining pretty hard.

In they came, cold an wet. Some of the girls had only shorts and a tank top. They were shaking like leaves in a wind storm.

A lesson hard learned. AACHOO! Bless you.

That night they raffled off a new V-Rod at the outdoor concert downtown. Some guy won it and went to the microphone and put it up for bid. It was sold within a half hour. The music was good, the food was good, and the women were above average.

Monday morning I broke camp and went into town to say good by to the friends I had made. I was now rolling to Billings to cover one of the best hill climbs in the country. But that’s another story.

Nuff said.

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Record Crowd at Harley-Davidson

I

t was nothing short of a spectacular success when HarleyDavidson of Brandon held the grand opening party for their Old Town Harley-Davidson Complex on Saturday, Nov. 11th. The perfect riding weather brought out thousands of riders and there were even rumors that people were actually being turned away!

Motorcycles were parked along Adamo Drive as far as you could see. The line of people signing up to win the new 2006 V-Rod VRSCA was continuous throughout the day. Just as long was the line for the cold Budweiser draft beer and the $5.00 barbecue special at the Smokehouse BBQ & Grill. Pretty girls wandered among the crowd with Frozen Margueritas, Daqueri’s and shots of Tequila. The cold drinks were a welcome relief from the heat and they also helped pump up the party atmosphere as people danced to the warm-up band Bullshot, from the Dallas Bull. The main act,

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national recording artists, Foghat had the audience cheering as they performed two separate sets. When they played “Slow Ride” everyone sang along, arms waving in the air. The band honored their fans afterward with an autograph session and an interview with the Master of Ceremonies, Radical Randy, for BTR Television. The band was extremely personable and welcomed the BTR crew onto their tour bus. Well known Buell American Daredevil Bubba Blackwell teased the audience with stunts and a scary 70-foot Harley Jump. The benefit charity, Paws for Patriots, was presented with a portion of the money raised from the 50/50 drawing and the winner donated back $300.00 to their cause which brought a cheer from the crowd. Randy brought the Harley Girls up on stage to end the event by drawing the winner of the V-Rod. Paul Desorcy of Plant City was the stunned winner and told the crowd that

of Brandon’s Grand Opening

Photos by Gary Kaplan and BTR he was so excited he might faint! Gary Bang, Vice-President of the Tampa/Brandon/NPR dealerships, Marketing Director Silvana Gozman, and Marketing Assistant Britini Buss joined Randy on stage with the winner to extend their congratulations.

The overflow turnout pleased both the sponsors and the vendors. The shoe shine girls were busy all day and clothes were flying off the racks inside the huge dealership showroom. The sales staff was ready to deal and a number of happy riders left as new Harley owners. A long time BTR TV viewer, Dick Roberts was quoted as saying that the trip up from St. Petersburg with his group of friends was a beautiful ride and the event was well worth the trip. “The drinks and food were excellent and Foghat was great. I want to come back when it’s not so crowded. They should do this kind of event every month!”

Harley/Davidson/Buell of Brandon is located at 9841 Adamo Drive, Brandon. The new complex sits on ten acres and includes a 50,000 square foot facility that includes the showroom, service and parts departments, customer lounge and corporate offices.

There’s a 1.5 acre Rider’s Edge motorcycle training facility and “The Smokehouse”, a 4,000 square foot restaurant. There are seven ponds scattered across the property and a western style corral that will be home to the dealership’s mascot, Willie G, a Texas longhorn steer. Stop by or visit their website at www. tampaharley.com.

Check out Born To Ride Television for more event coverage and exclusive interviews with Gary Bang and Bubba Blackwell.

Valerie Smith

borntoride.com | btrt 17

Lucas Oil Racing products Lucas Oil products would like to congratulate Carl Renezeder on yet another championship season. Carl has been a great ambassador for Lucas Oil and we are very proud to have his team flying our colors. In a season where the extreme highs and lows swapped places as often as the Pro-2 championship contenders, and on the same weekends Carl would find himself winning a race by 30 truck lengths and then follow it up with a disappointing part failure, it’s difficult to sum up what the championship really means. More than anything else, the title is confirmation of the dedication the entire team has to accepting nothing short of winning. From the guys that put the trucks on the track to the sponsors that believe in the team, and from the guy that holds the wheel and slams the pedal to the floor to the fans that scream his name, they all won a championship that doesn’t seem like nearly enough payment for their commitment and enthusiasm. But, when all is said and done, the trophy is what the racing world uses to define success, so with humility and graciousness, the team will put it in the trophy case as a token of their hard work and start thinking about how it can be even better in 2007.

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INDUSTRY

Wild West Motor Company offers its motorcycles with Patrick Racing engines

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an Diego, California – Wild West Motor Company announced today that they have forged a new relationship with Patrick Racing. Their motorcycles are now available with Patrick Racing’s 120, 125, and 128 cubic inch engines.

Wild West Motor Company’s CEO, Paul Seiter explains, “For over a decade we’ve been engineering and crafting some of the most exotic motorcycles in the world. In the tradition of offering only the best in motorcycles, we’ve stepped up our power train to include the finest of V-twin engines.”

Patrick Racing’s high performance engines offer several unique features and advantages. The billet aluminum cylinders and cylinder heads are much more than just works of art. 6061-T6 billet aluminum is 48% stronger than the typical cast aluminum found in most V-twin engines! Cast fins tend to resonate loudly due to being weaker, thinner, and longer. However, Patrick’s thicker billet fin design runs quieter on account of its rigidity and strength.

Patrick Racing heads feature ports that are fully CNC machined, producing greater airflow and a substantial increase

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REPORT

in overall horsepower.

Billet aluminum doesn’t have the porosity or large grain structure found in cast aluminum. This allows billet aluminum to conduct heat away from the combustion chamber and exhaust valves much faster and more efficiently than cast cylinders and cylinder heads do. Seiter states, “The larger horsepower output isn’t a problem for the Patrick Racing engine. The billet aluminum heads and cylinders handle the additional heat and dampen vibration. This gives us peak performance without a detriment in longevity or noise.”

Dynamically computer balanced flywheels, forged JE pistons, roller rocker arms, and a state-of-the-art electronic ignition all add to the engine’s power and smoothness. The Mikuni 45mm carburetor used on the engine is famous for its responsiveness and tune-ability. The oil pump, tappet blocks, rocker boxes, and push rod covers are all made of billet aluminum, adding strength and style.

Patrick Racing was established in 1984 by Nigel Patrick.

Nigel has been racing, developing engines, and CNC machining for over 20 years. Nigel and crew’s expertise in racing engine

development is put to use on their winning AMA/Prostar “Hot Rod Cruiser” class drag bike. They have won 4 years in a row, set 27 records, and are leading currently in the 2006 season. Seiter says, “As we have become more familiar with Nigel Patrick, his team, his product, and his vision, we have become even more impressed.

Their commitment to excellence matches our philosophy and makes them an important strategic partner.”

Wild West Motor Company was established in 1995 and is located in San Diego, California. They manufacture a line of premium V-twin motorcycles that currently consists of two models: Vigilante Gunfire and Dragoon. They design, tool, and manufacture their own frames, swing arms, fuel tanks, and many other components used in their motorcycles.

The motorcycles are found in Kelly and N.A.D.A. blue books, are financeable, insurable, and sold through a nationwide dealer network of 25 premium dealers.

Wild West Motor Company and Patrick Racing are currently collaborating on a number of engineering projects.

Patrick states, “Wild West is much more than just another customer to us. Their engineering capability combined with our racing and engine design proficiency create a very exciting situation...”

Seiter concludes, “The Patrick Racing engine program is one way we are keeping our commitment to building the best motorcycles in the world. We are thrilled about the future projects that are in the works. I believe our passion for engineering and development will enable us to continue to lead and innovate.”

Customers can find dealers, request brochures, and learn additional information about its motorcycles on the company’s website found at www. wildwestmc.com.

For more information please contact: Scott Hubbard 8230 Miralani Drive San Diego, CA 92126 Tel: 858-547-9780 Ext. 104 Email: shubbard@wildwestmc.com

Wild West Dragoon

Wild West Gunfire

Wild West Vigilante

In Florida, contact Big Bike Motorcycles in Jacksonville.

904-262-BIKE.

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 23

UPARC Poker Run Recap

By Charlie Nolan he Seventh Annual Leigh Nolan Memorial Poker Run for UPARC (Upper Pinellas Association for Retarded Citizens), presented by the Florida Bay Area Clearwater Chapter of the Harley Owner’s Group (HOG), concluded successfully on the afternoon of November 5th, at Quaker Steak and Lube in Clearwater.

Other major sponsors for this event included Fletcher’s Harley Davidson, Full Throttle, Born to Ride TV and Magazine, Trike City, Pinch-a-Penney, Tech Data, Q105 Radio, Champion’s Barbeque, Attorney Fran Haasch, and Boat and Motor Superstores.

Over 500 bikes and over 750 people participated in the event, with the net proceeds of over $11,000 turned over to UPARC Director of Development, Brent Troth, at the end of the day.

The Suncoast Brotherhood took the Club Challenge

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trophy with an impressive 41 members participating. The Florida Gulf Coast HOG Chapter (St. Pete) was a close second place with 39 riders. Tampa Sunshine HOG Chapter, Polk County HOG Chapter, New Port Richey HOG Chapter, Lightning Riders and CMA also made impressive showings. Their participation, along with all other attendees, is greatly appreciated.

Feedback from the participants continues to be very positive as this event continues to grow into one of Tampa Bay’s largest biker fundraisers. This year the event featured a grand prize of $2,000 for best hand, which was paid as $1,000 cash and a $1,000 Fletcher’s Harley Davidson gift certificate. The winners, Terry

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and Lynn Marschang, were nice enough to donate some of their winnings back to UPARC. The auction of an official NFL football autographed by Jon Gruden, a baseball autographed by the Devil Rays’ Rocco Baldelli, a Harley Davidson Fat Boy collector watch and other donated biker merchandise and jewelry created quite a lively competition for a good cause. Professional auctioneer, Jerry Hall, always has the crowd going wild and digging deep. The raffle of a Harley Davidson mini-refrigerator and the large 50/50 pot also had excellent participation.

New this year was an 10-class bike show sponsored by Trike City and Born to Ride TV and Magazine. There was quite a lively competition for the nice trophies and TV coverage. Also new this year was a Poker Walk amongst the various vendors at Quaker Steak and Lube. Some folks in cars were not eligible for the Poker Run, so they were able to make a contribution by participating in the Poker Walk.

With a great day, excellent vendors, the outstanding Rockus band, good food and plenty of cold beverages, it was just a great afternoon for a good cause. The folks at Quaker Steak and Lube went all out for this event by providing the ideal end-of-run party atmosphere.

We are fortunate in the Tampa Bay area to have many options for our weekends. For those who chose to spend the day with us, thanks for making life a little bit better for people who face daily challenges we can only imagine.

The Eighth Annual Leigh Nolan Memorial Poker Run for UPARC will be held on Sunday, November 4, 2007. See you there!

D

s a D

D

ucati is proud to announce the arrival of the 2007 Ducati Apparel Collection. In an unprecedented North American event, Ducati will introduce the collection with over 20 synchronized runway fashion shows from coast to coast. In addition to the entire line of Ducati apparel, the latest 2007 Ducati motorcycles and accessories will be on display.

If you’re looking for new gear or the perfect holiday gift for that motorcycle or fashion enthusiast, you don’t want to miss the arrival of the 2007 Ducati Collection For more info check out

Euro Cycles of Tampa Bay

8509 Gunn Hwy. 813-926-9937 | www.ridetampa.com

2-4-1

Happy Hour 4pm - 7pm

Daily Thursday

Tour Of Italy Lasagna,Stuffed Shells, Manicotti, & Chicken Parmigiana

$12.95

Not to be combined with any other offer. One coupon per customer. must present coupon. exp. 01/31/07

Monday

One Large 18�

Pepperoni Pizza

$ 9.95 Cash Only

Not to be combined with any other offer. One coupon per customer. must present coupon. exp. 01/31/07

Friday

Tuesday

Kids Night All Children Under 12 Spaghetti & Meatballs

FREE

Not to be combined with any other offer. One coupon per customer. must present coupon. exp. 01/31/07

Saturday

5pm - 9pm Call For Chefs Special & Reservations

One Large 18�

Cheese Pizza

Glass Of Wine

11am - 5pm

Wednesday

O n e L a r g e Cheese Pizza with 2 20oz Drinks Only....$10.95 Toppings Extra

Not to be combined with any other offer. One coupon per customer. must present coupon. exp. 01/31/07

Wednesday Ladies Night Ladies Drink

FREE

FREE

$ 9.95 Cash Only

All Night To Close

Not to be combined with any other offer. One coupon per customer. must present coupon. exp. 01/31/07

Not to be combined with any other offer. One coupon per customer. must present coupon. exp. 01/31/07

Not to be combined with any other offer. One coupon per customer. must present coupon.

hattanooga, TN. - September 16,2006 over two thousand bikers came together at Ross’ Landing downtown Chattanooga for the 13th Annual Trail of Tears Commemorative Motorcycle Ride This is the largest organized motorcycle ride in history to commemorate Native American heritage & the tragic Trail of Tears.

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I

set out for Chattanooga before daylight because this year I had a little different route planned through Talking Rock, Ga. This was one of the holding points for the Cherokee Indians. The soldiers then took the Cherokee Indians from Fort Talking Rock to Chattanooga for relocation. Hwy 53(Trail of Tears) runs west through the north Georgia mountains through Jasper. This old mountain road has a couple of names. One is the Federal Hwy. and the other is The Trail Where They Cried. In the1990’s Jerry Davis was researching the Native American history surrounding Scottsboro, Alabama. He learned that the Trail of Tears route ran along present day Hwy.72. Jerry and Bill Cason felt that the public should be aware of this and the route should be officially recognized and marked. Bill, a Harley-rider, is the founder of the Trail of Tears Ride. On October 8th of 1994 the first ride started from Chattanooga with 8 riders. When the bikers had reached their destination over ninety motorcyclists had joined them. Each year more and more bikers joined in the ride somewhere along the road. Now there are 40,000 to 50,000 riders every year.

The Kick-off party started at 10:00 a.m. Friday at Thunder Creek H-D in Chattanooga. When I checked into my motel room I could already hear the band playing. The band, Southern Mercy, had the volume turned wide open and you could hear them for blocks. Walking to the Harley shop I saw a motorcycle with a buffalo head on the front. I watched the buffalo bike coming down the road and it looked as if the man was actually riding a buffalo. I talked with Ron, the owner of the bike, and found out that he attended different events around the country with his buffalo motorcycle.

A group of riders started off Friday morning from the Cherokee Ceremonial Grounds at 11:00 a.m. Another group of bikers left from Cartersville, GA at noon to meet up with the Cherokee riders. The two groups combined and everyone rode toward Thunder Creek H-D. Around three o’clock approximately one hundred riders had arrived at the Harley Shop. During the afternoon the band Double Shot from Savannah. kept the bikers entertained with their style of southern rock music. There were plenty of beers and mixed drinks on hand and that probably helped to get everyone up and dancing.

When nine o’clock rolled around it was as if it was the magic number. The bikers started climbing on their bikes and riding back to their motels. I hung out for another thirty minutes to see if the band would stop. As I rode off I could hear the band, No Accident, still playing back at the Harley Shop.

I checked my equipment and made sure the batteries were charged and my camera was clean. I packed up my gear Friday night to be ready to walk out the door at 5am. I woke up about three-thirty and could not go back to sleep.

I couldn’t stand it any longer, so I headed out to Ross‘s Landing. When I arrived, the bikers were already lined up.

When I walked along the rows of motorcycles, I found bikers sleeping on their bikes or just about anywhere they could find some space . Some of the bikers were just sitting in the dark talking to each other and having a warm cup of coffee.

You could feel the excitement in the cool morning air.

The 6th Annual John Benge Commemorative Motorcycle Ride honors the Cherokee from Alabama. Fort Payne, Ala. was one of the many holding points before the Cherokee were moved west. This group of riders left out at 8am and joined up with the main body of riders in Scottsboro, Al. As usual, I found The C.M.A. doing their best to meet the needs of the biker’s with food and thought. You could

BTR 34 | BORNTORIDE.COM

see them walking up and down the line giving out water and biscuits. The C.M.A. of Chattanooga was working hard with the help of some members from the surrounding states.

I walked around watching everyone up front preparing to get under way. Bill Cason, ride leader, was doing an interview with Channel Five. Jim Dunn, the other ride leader, was making last minute checks. I had the opportunity to say a few words to Chief Perry White from Cherokee N.C. Bill had a word of prayer for a safe ride. The medicine men did his blessing of the riders. Then came the words, “Gentlemen start your engines“.

The Chattanooga Police Motorcycle officers led the way with all the VIP’s riding behind them, then came the main body of the ride. This lasted for over forty minutes for the bikers just to cross the starting line on Broad and 20th Street.

You could see people waving American flags and clapping their hands as the bikers rode by. The riders made their way down Hwy. 72 and along the foot of Lookout Mountain. They were headed to Florence, AL where the official ride ended. A three day Pow Wow was taking place there over the weekend at McFarland Park..

The main purpose of the Trail of Tears Commemoration Ride is to raise money for a Scholarship fund for deserving Native American Students. In addition to the scholarships, the board has placed numerous highway signs and historic markers along the Trail of Tears in Alabama and Tennessee.

This is another great example of how bikers help their community and country.

If you would like more information about the 13th Annual Trail of Tears Ride go to their web-site at

www.al-tn-trailoftears.org.

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 35

radical randy

Randy: It seems like you have given away a lot of motorcycles at a lot of major events, how many?

And how does it feel giving that joy to someone?

Seven to be exact, three Harleys, two custom builds, one Victory and a V-Rod. WOW! I will tell you it feels so good to fulfill someone’s dream of having a new motorcycle, and four out of seven that have won are riding their winning bikes. The sponsors this past year have been great to me, they believe in me and the one thing I always say to them is to give and you will receive, and not a one has had a problem with that.

You sure get involved in a lot of charity work, why? And how does it make you feel?

All of my life my family has always helped others when we were able, and I feel I was given a gift early in life to try to help others in need, especially children. Being I am a dad and a husband, some of what I have seen families go through to survive with sick children or health issues makes me want to help. This question could take up the entire page, because what’s inside me to help is more then words. In short I CARE. What you did when you donated your hair was a very special reason?

Special reason was Ashton Bass a four year old angel with a horrible disease CANCER, and when I met my little friend and her family it hit home hard, because myself and Wendy have four daughters and a son and I could not imagine going through what the Bass family did. Russ Bass is a local law enforcement officer in Plant City and his wife and their two daughters had gone through a

btr 40 | borntoride.com

lot before we met them. So I did what I thought would be the most honorable to Ashton’s dad , and that was to donate my 22 inches of hair I had for eleven years to Locks Of Love in Aston’s behalf. And we made sure her last Christmas with her family was the best. We lost our little angel in Feb. 2006 and I feel sometime’s that she is my guardian angel.

When did you 1st EMCEE and where? What got you started?

I have always been around entertainment growing up, my mom and dad were country singers and my whole family was always into something in announcing. My great grandparent’s owned a racetrack in Indiana and we always announced the racing events.

My dad did radio in the fifty’s when there were hardly any TV’s at all, and he played the accordion on the air, if you know what an accordion is. My first real emcee job in Tampa was at ABC liquors in Brandon in 1986.

Tell us about the Radical Team? Who is in it and what does it offer?

THE RADICAL TEAM was created two years ago to help take a lot of stress off me so I could focus more on the event at hand and help promoters that sponsor our TV show and Magazine to have a very professional event with a great outcome. If only you could see what our team does as a whole I think you would be totally amazed.

To start BRIAN aka POCKETS is my right hand man who sets up the sound, loads and unloads, and can fix anything that breaks. He is Mr. Fix It, and has been with us since the start. Scott aka SCOTTSTER and his wife KIMMER came on board almost two years ago and they gelled right in. Scott is the MAN, he is our Webmaster and also another right hand man for me and I tell you I have tried all of this computer stuff and Scott can have it. Kimmer is Wendy’s partner at all events with organizing the bike shows and giveaways, and of course our daughter Jessie is now on board doing a lot of little task and of course my wonderful wife Wendy-Bob and myself, oh and you too Kevin. We are a team that comes to your event and can do it all from Emcee to Bike shows, raffles, giveaways, vendors, music, bands, auctions, weddings, retirement party’s, birthdays, charities and a whole lot more. And we are always looking for volunteers at all events.

You’RE wELL KNOWN HERE as aN mc and personality, BUT people may not know you do some major shows outside of Florida and outside the USA? We do travel a lot out of Florida to work and we always seem to run into our viewers everywhere across the U S. The one show that has honored me with this award of INTERNATIONAL EMCEE is THE CANADIAN BIKER BUILD OFF that I have had the honor of hosting now for three years and I have also been entertaining in Canada for almost seven years. Thanks to a good friend Tony Massaro for introducing me to Vern the promoter at a show I was doing for Tony in Medina, NY eight years ago. One major show, actually the best show to me, is Indiana ABATE’S BOOGIE, every July in Bedford Indiana. This event is out of this world crazy, and no one in Florida has topped it yet. Their ABATE is the biggest brotherhood of friends I have ever met.

How was it interviewing FOGHAT at HD Brandon’s grand opening for the feature and opening of BTR TV? Freaking Awesome as Roger, the drummer and original FOGHAT member, would say. The whole band was laid back and friendly and not once stuck up about any interviews or pictures. I wish some bands would learn common manors from these brothers of our childhood.

Tell us something about the following:

up close and personal

Plant City Bike Fest, I have emceed this event for four years and have experienced some great entertainment and a lot of FUN. Every year we give a brand new Harley away to our visitors and we always have a top notch Bike Show and giveaways, if you have never been to our little town of PLANT CITY for our #1 BIKE FEST I suggest you might want to try it.

Biker Bash @ the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Every three months we party hard at The Hard Rock with the best of the best , with great bike show giveaways, Huge package prizes at the end of the day live entertainment by the pool, cheap beer prices and a $6 BBQ, and of course The Radical Team and BTR QS&L as well as Bill Church, Bill Church to me is a real stand up brother, three years ago when we met he asked me what can I do to have a successful bike night, so I gave him an ear full of idea’s and I don’t think he forgot a one of them. That’s why we are #1. Bill is always looking to do anything for the biking community anytime. I don’t think the word NO to us is in his vocabulary. So bring yourself and your bike out to the #1 Wednesday night bike night, Quaker Steak and Lube Tell us about Quantum Leap event coming up in January What a charity! This is for head injured people and also people with disabilities. This includes war veterans, motorcyclists and many more. This gives the disabled a chance to feel free again, to do something fun and be with the most loving animal in the world, a horse. For these individuals to be able to get up on that horse and ride is great therapy for them, more than you will ever know. My great friend, Rick and his crew of EWD motorcycles have created the ultimate benefit for this farm and of course I am starting off 2007 with this, THE FIRST BIKE GIVEAWAY OF 2007 at Quaker Steak and Lube on January 20th 2007 starting at 12 noon. Come out and join us for a complete parking lot party and charity event for Quantum Leap Farms so be there for the chance to win Eric Warrens custom built BOBBER and party all day.

Why do you do what you do?

I love it. Sometimes it gets too much for me, but it’s in my blood to keep all of you entertained to the best of what I can, it’s not easy and sometimes I receive some pretty bad comments and it does hurt and I am not perfect, but I keep going they are only words and I wish those people walked in my shoes for one event. I just love

making you all happy and for the fun to keep going everywhere.

Like the song I LIKE IT I LOVE IT I WANT SOME MORE OF IT. What is something that not everyone knows about Radical Randy?

Well hard question, because I am very forward at all of our events about our family, our children, and our problems, I have found over the years with the microphone in my hand that I don’t have a problem airing my laundry. This community, our family of motorcyclists, have always been there for us with great advice and I have never been one to hide who I am or what I do. Just know I am real. Okay I like banana baby food.

How does BTR TV keep going every week, month and year and how have things changed over the years?

After almost 12 years of informing and entertaining what started out as a small group of motorcyclists to what now seems to have multiplied by thousands over the years. I think we have been a big part of the growth. I think with the support of our great sponsors that have been with us for years and new ones on the way keep us going, but I really think it’s the motorcyclists supporting our sponsors and events, that’s the real product of all of our success.

Thanks to them.

BTR Magazine how is it changing and how important is it to support?

Growing faster then we thought and making waves everywhere, I remember when we started the first BTR magazine back in 1995 and it was hot then, but being who we are we let it move on to other hands while we kept BTR TV in top standing. Through the years we stayed away from print but was challenged here a while back, so back it came. It was something we were good at in the beginning of BTR. Just a little history lesson. From RADICAL Your last words?

From your emcee and friend RADICAL RANDY and my loving wife WENDY-BOB and our crew THE RADICAL TEAM we want to thank all of you for a great year and a lot of fun, without you we could not be who we are today. We want to wish all of you to have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Till next year God Bless & luv ya

borntoride.com | btr 41

SHOP PROFILE Cycle Alley Motorsports

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ycle Alley Motorsports, specializing in sales and service on all V-Twin, Harley, Indian, Triumph, Metric/Euro cruisers and custom bikes, opened June 1, 2006 to provide “Great Service in a User Friendly Shop” Owned and operated by Frank and Carl Nicolosi, a father and son team, Cycle Alley is conveniently located at 7143 US Highway 19, (southbound) Newport Richey, about a mile north of Main Street and a ½ mile south of the Cotee River, adjacent to Davies Corvette Parts.

Cycle Alley is an all-brand dealer in a clean, modern, professional shop with all new equipment including three air lifts, all necessary tools and equipment and a state of the art Coats RC200 tire machine for tire service all the way up to 360 mm.

They have a full line of parts and accessories and can provide special ordering from any of their distributors which include Drag Specialties, Parts Unlimited, Tucker Rocky, Biker’s Choice, Custom Chrome/Motorcycle Stuff, S&S Cycles, Wiseco Pistons, Custom Dynamics, and Paul Yaffe Originals.

Every day specials include 20% discount on batteries and brakes and 25% on tires. Watch the web site, www.cycle-alley. com for monthly specials and events.

On the service side Carl handles all tech work. A graduate of Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Phoenix, he has formal training on all brands specializing in H-D at MMI, Phoenix, Triumph

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maintenance and engine management in Santa Ana, CA, and late model Indian in Gilroy, CA. Carl worked for 4 years in Southern California for San Juan Capistrano Triumph and Indian and Sons Motorcycles servicing a variety of bikes including H-D Indian, Triumph, customs and metric cruisers, as well as building several one-off customs for SoCal customers. He spent the past year working for Cycle-Rama in Pinellas Park.

On the business side Frank has a wide range of business management experience and many years as a sales executive in the electronics industry, most recently in Southern California. He made his escape from Corporate America in 2005 and moved to Florida to start a bike shop.

Originally from Rochester, New York, Carl makes his home in Port Richey. When he is not working he is an avid rider and fisherman and enjoys family life with his wife Valerie and their two children, Dominic who is 10, and Jasmine who is 9.

Frank lives in Lutz with his wife Judy, and besides Carl, has two other children, Paul 32, and Lauren, 21. When he is not at work Frank enjoys riding, reading, scuba diving, and is a certified news junkie.

Stop into Cycle Alley soon. You’ll like the clean, professional shop and world class customer service. Complimentary beverages are available daily with donuts or bagels every Saturday.

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ine years ago a friend of mine, Alan D’Alessandro, approached me in early December to do a “New Year Poker Run.” So we planned it with only two cash sponsors (Rossiter’s Harley-Davidson and New York Hair Company) ending up with approximately 80 motorcycles raising approximately $150. As I rode my bike home that evening I said to myself, there is no reason why Sarasota can’t have its own little Bikefest.

I remember struggling for a name that would fit, brainstorming ideas over dinner with a fellow rider named Kevin Ciak. Finally on a cocktail napkin the scribbled name of “Thunder By The Bay” appeared and it stuck. As with any new idea, there were several “Doubting Thomas’s” but thanks to the support of so many friends, business associates, founding sponsors, and local riders it happened. Here we are nine years later with a three-day festival which has grown tremendously. Each year the event has attracted an increasing number of visitors into the Sarasota area, resulting in significant economic impact for area hotels and businesses.

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Some changes you will see implemented this year include: • A collection of great auction items for the silent and live auction at the “Born To Be Wild” Kickoff Party include a Rolling Chassis donated by Detroit Brothers (valued at over $5,000), a leather jacket signed by Eddie Trotta, custom gas tank painted by Robert Pradke who is known for painting many of the late Indian Larry’s bikes, keepsake Collector barrels from Jack Daniels, autographed NASCAR helmets, and much, much more!!!

• A new location for the BBQ, Bands, and Blue Jeans Event at the Sarasota Bradenton International Convention Center with plenty of room for indoor vendors and outdoor room for “Ride Like A Pro”and Motocross Demos • New starting location for the poker run at the Convention Center where a “Biker Burnout Breakfast” will be offered • Increased space for vendors downtown with bike parking only down four blocks of Main Street

Lucy V. Nicandri, Vice President

•

A scenic Poker Run route through two state parks keeping riders away from congested areas • Special Guest Bike Builders such as Eddie Trotta, Detroit Brothers, and Shorty Inc. I am so thankful for all the support of a great committee, the sponsors, and especially so many of the riding clubs and organizations who pull together to make this a success year after year. Our goal is to provide a safe, affordable and fun atmosphere all three days for everyone to enjoy. Sarasota’s own “Thunder By The Bay” has become a destination event and is not just for bikers any more. So come on out to a great event for a great cause!

It’s All for Charity Last year over $55,000 was raised and over the past eight years this festival has raised over $400,000 for local children and families. The Florida Center for Child and Family Development has been the beneficiary over the past two years. Listed below is a breakdown of their programs and services which are made possible thanks to your support…..THANK YOU AND RIDE SAFE PROGRAMS AND SERVICES • Screenings and therapy services for children with special needs • Infant/Young Child Mental Health Therapy & Child Psychiatry Services and Psychological Services • Grief Support Groups for children • Fetal Alcohol Diagnostic Assessment and Intervention Clinic

• • • • • •

Developmental screenings, trainings, and mentoring Early Childhood Education Healthy Families Program Outreach services for Hispanic families Family/Marital Counseling Behavioral Support Services and Parent Education Classes - Foster/Adoptive Parent Training • Child Welfare Case Management Services for Families VISIBLE RESULTS • Annually more than 400 children participate in our Early Childhood Education Program and/or receive Developmental Therapy services.

• Over 9,000 developmental therapy sessions are provided each year to local children birth-8 years of age.

• Over 550 families were served in one year through the Healthy Families Program.

• Each year in the U.S. between 35,000 and 40,000 babies are born with fetal alcohol-related disorder. Thanks to our new Fetal Alcohol Diagnostic and Intervention Clinic we are able to diagnose children who may be affected so appropriate interventions and services may be initiated and trained 405 individuals statewide on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.

• In one year The Florida Center served approx. 3,000 children and family members.

Lucy V. Nicandri, Vice President Marketing, Communications and Special Events The Florida Center for Child and Family Development

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Rossiter’s Harley-Davidson Rossiter’s Harley-Davidson has been a major part of the Sarasota motorcycle scene for more than 16 years. The two modern showrooms they have today are a long way from the small store on Hwy 301 where Rick Rossiter first opened for business back in 1990. Rick recalls that the first location had only 8 parking spaces but that they were still able to sell 300 motorcycles a year. The timing was good and as the Sarasota/Manatee county area grew so did the dealership.

In the mid-90’s they opened what Harley calls an Alternate Retail Outlet on First Street in Bradenton which sold clothing and parts only. A year later a store expansion allowed it to be upgraded to a Secondary Retail Outlet, which meant they could also sell bikes.

The only problem, according to Rick, was that both locations had to share their allocation of bikes. Rick solved that by working with Harley to turn the Bradenton store into a free standing dealership which they opened in 2005 at 624 67th Street Circle East. During that time, they also outgrew the original location and moved to a new building near I-75 at 330 Cattlemen Road.

According to Rick, the growth has presented a few challenges. “The biggest challenge to growth is finding people. We have a really good core of qualified people but the unemployment rate in Sarasota County is so below the national average that everybody’s working here and it’s difficult to find qualified people. We’ve thought of opening another branch store somewhere but would have to find good people”. He’s certainly found good people to put in charge of the two current stores, his two daughters. Robin runs the Bradenton location while Lori handles the duties in Sarasota. Rick recalls only about 8 people attending their first company Christmas party. There are now about 75 employees spread between the two stores.

Rick remembers back to the first Thunder By the Bay. “It started out 9 years ago. The idea was brought to us to do a poker run for charity in January when there weren’t any poker runs going on after Christmas. We’re always acceptable to doing something that involves helping a charity. It started out

as a very small poker run. It has grown into a 3-day downtown Sarasota festival event with a banquet, a concert, a bike show and a poker run over an entire weekend. They block off the downtown area and fill downtown Sarasota with motorcycles.

We’ve also worked with the same person, Lucy Necandri, and that’s another reason for the growth. We haven’t switched from person to person to person even though she has switched charities. It originally started out to benefit the United Way, which was fine and then Lucy moved to The Florida Center for Child and Family Development and at the same time United Way was deemphasizing their special event activities. They didn’t seem to be as interested and The Florida Center was a very, very deserving charity. There’s something about bikers helping kids that has gone on for as long as I can remember.

It was a perfect fit for us. Lucy organizes everything and makes it happen. It’s done first class quality, safety conscious, family oriented.” Rick thinks the changes to this year’s event will make a good party even better. “They changed the venue because they weren’t able to do what they wanted to do at the Fairgrounds any longer. The convention center is huge and will allow things to be done better.”

The future looks bright for Rossiter’s and with the continued growth in the area Rick’s already considering his options. “I’d say we’d have to look at expanding the Manatee store in the next 5 years.I look at this parking lot and thought this was the biggest store and parking lot that I’d ever need but if you come here for our Saturday parties we have to hire a parking lot attendant because we can’t fit all the cars and motorcycles in here. I’d love not to have to have a parking attendant and have so many parking spaces that everyone could pull in and find a place to park. I don’t know if that means finding a new location or building an addition.”

You can get more information about Rossiter’s Harley-Davidson from their website at www.rossiterharleydavidson.com.

Mike Savidge BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 47

pounds dry, there were few experiences to equal the thrill of riding one of these small shrieking two-strokes. With the engine wrapped in a cradle style frame it came with triple disc brakes and looked like a pukka race bike. Riding on skinny eighteeninch wheels and tires, easily able to flex the frame and outperform the suspension, it was a seriously wild ride though. In the England of my youth, the RZ350, or YPVS as it was known over there, quickly attained cult status. All manner of tuning options were soon available to make the beast go faster, and the salvage yards quickly filled with freshly wadded examples.

Government emission laws eventually ended the life of the street going two-stroke in this country, but not the memory. Having raced an RZ350 early in his career, Jamie decided it would be neat to see what they could do with one utilizing a lot of racing know how and some modern technology. With winter approaching fast, and riding season coming to an end, a lot of hours would be spent in the JJP workshop; a good number of them being donated to the old RZ. Fast-forward to early spring and I am diving into a hairpin turn out on the quiet back roads around Hot Springs, North Carolina. Ahead of me Jamie is hustling a stock R1 equipped with Moto cross bars, behind Doug is on the JJP R1. Dropping down into first gear, I effortlessly flick into the turn before yanking the throttle back to wide open, the front wheel lifting as the engine screams and I grab another gear while fighting to get the front end back on the floor. The sound emitting the Toomey expansion pipes is blood curdling, and straight adrenaline is jacking through my

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veins. Another gear, and another, before brushing the front brake lever and quickly dropping two gears, the engine howling on the overrun. The diminutive RZ so solid and stable under braking I am able to run up tight on Jamie’s rear wheel. Ahead the big R1 starts pulling hard out of the corner, but shifting right in the meat of the RZ’s power band I am stuck up behind him like a fly on a bull’s arse, and the fun continues.

Behind me I can hear the breathe on JJP R1 exhaling through the Akrapovic pipe and know Doug is hard on it as we howl into Tennessee. It is early spring so we are able to enjoy the deserted roads without fear of meeting any cage loads of tourists crawling along admiring the view. In the saddle of the RZ my teeth are set to perma grin, and my eyes are standing out on stalks as I flick effortlessly back and forward along this incredible, piece of road playing tunes with the gearbox.

Taking a breather to get some gas and inhale some needed fluids I am laughing like a mad man and just in awe of this wild, yellow machine. Weighing in around 280 pounds and putting nearly 70 horsepower through the gummy 180 section Michelin pilot, I have never ridden anything on the street that was this much fun. The bike is blessed with telepathic handling, beyond phenomenal brakes and the most addictive rush of acceleration, which make the Jamie James Productions RZ350 the ultimate mountain road tool. Forcing you to make two or three times more gear changes per mile than a big four stroke, life becomes a narrow focused game of getting every shift just right. Because, fall below 7000 rpm, or rev it above 11,000 rpm and you

get sweet nothing. That is not too say you can’t ride it under seven grand, you can if you are taking it slow, you just can’t keep up with an R1 unless you are thrashing the tits off it.

Later in the day, slumped in a chair like an amphetamine junky coming down off a weekend binge, it is time to make some notes and find out just what Jamie and Doug have done to the RZ to make it such a radical street weapon. Just glancing around the machine it is obvious that few of the original parts have been left, and if so they have been worked on.

Sitting down to join me, Doug emphatically states before we start, “ I don’t want to do another one.” With the bike stripped to the bare frame, all of the non-essential mounts and brackets were removed, which lost a bunch of weight.

The center stand was junked, as were the passenger footpegs, and gusseting added to the frame for strength. The rear of the frame received an old racing modification before being widened to accept the ’87 FZR1000 swingarm that happened to be lying around the shop. Interestingly, it used the same pivot bolt as the RZ, but required some machining to accept the R6 rear wheel. The axle had to be lengthened three inches to make it through the swingarm, and the rear sprocket housing machined to line up with the counter shaft sprocket. This had to be offset some to make the match, with this task being performed by Orient Express.

The stock gearing was retained, and a 520 Regina chain rolls over the black, hardened Vortex sprockets. Responsible for the supple, yet controlled ride out back is an Ohlins’ shock originally intended for a Yamaha R7. Jamie is an Ohlins’ supplier and tech, following the AMA Superbike series setting up suspension for Ohlins

quipped teams. While the R7 was a lot heavier, Jamie found that the spring rate worked perfectly due to the RZ’s linear link. The top quality shock is adjustable for pre-load, compression, rebound, and ride height. Stock R6 rear brake parts are used with the addition of a Wave rotor, but even at manic speed, it was something of an afterthought as the front brakes are just in another league, but I will get to them in a minute.

Up at the business end of the RZ, Jamie used a Yamaha R1 inverted fork from an ’02 model, with an Ohlins’ valving kit inside.

These are held in place by a stock lower triple clamp and a JJP upper triple clamp.

The set up needed a little help in the form of two bottom bearings and a spacer, but other than that the forks bolted right on. Rolling between the fork legs is an R1 front wheel with Wave rotors attached. A pair of ‘02 R1 calipers with carbon-carbon SBS brake pads puts the squeeze on them, with the fluid traveling from the master cylinder in braided steel lines. Pushing the fluid down the lines, a stock R1 master cylinder gets worked on by a GP tech adjustable, folding lever. Just like a race bike it is possible to adjust this on the fly. GP tech is also responsible for the handlebars and adjustable clutch lever and R6 style rear sets.

Out on the road the bars are pretty comfortable as they are not too low, and once set to my preferred settings, the levers felt perfect and have to be a must for any sport bike rider. The front brake set up is not for the novice rider, requiring some serious mental reprogramming to avoid overdoing it. Basically designed for stopping a 400 plus pound R1, hauling the featherweight RZ down from speed requires little more than a breath on the lever to scrub speed fast. Unless you have ridden something like the Poggipolini NCR we tested recently, you will never have experienced a brake set up as powerful as this one. It is simply mind bending how fast the RZ can stop when needed.

Staying with the suspension, it was interesting to see Jamie has stuck with the same philosophy found on his ultratrick R1s. The bike is set up with real road riding in mind, and soaks up any surface irregularities with ease, while not sacrificing anything in the handling department. Had we taken the bike to the track I have no doubt we would have been making some adjustments, but on road the bike was near perfect.

So, with the rolling chassis complete, the frame took a trip to be painted and the boys went to work on the motor. Toomey pipes were sourced, as was a Toomey carb kit and air intake system. A set of Boyson

reeds was installed and Doug milled 15 thousands of an inch off the heads to bump compression, before porting them for better flow. The stock pistons were kept, with some Yamaha sourced rings and the motor was reassembled with a factory gasket kit. Kudos to Bob Star and Jeff Jones at Yamaha for making this happen. Back in the frame, a run on the local dyno resulted in 69 smoking stallions, which is not bad when you think we are close to half a mile above sea level up here in the mountains.

One area of the bike that really took some time was the bodywork. Severely beaten from a bad crash, Jamie did all the prep work before his buddy at Russell’s Paint and Body in Black Mountain applied the mirror finish yellow. The quality of the paint is absolutely flawless and with Jamie’s signature Cajun claw on the tank looks the absolute business. All of the bodywork is stock except the front fender, and this, not surprisingly, comes from a ’02 R1.

The list of jobs continued, as Doug told me how the stock wiring harness had to be customized, the fairing lowered four inches, the exhaust brackets relocated and a complete custom dash fabricated. This is a really trick set up, with an electronic speedometer, tachometer, and series of shift lights. It also has a top speed memory program as I found out after my first high speed run. “Whatcha hit,” Doug asked me.

“Had to be closing in 120mph with more to go” I mentioned. “119 mph” Doug informed me with a touch of a button.

Thankfully this high-speed run was right before Jamie climbed in the saddle for me to shoot the pictures and we met our

friendly local policeman. Luck would have it he used to watch Jamie race and was a big fan, which resulted in Jamie pulling stand up wheelies for our new friend as the State Trooper came in the opposite direction.

Like I said earlier, I just have no idea how some of this stuff happens. What I do know is, Jamie and Doug have created one of the most outrageous back road burning motorcycles ever built. The only bad news is, it is not for sale and, with the new series of JJP R1s getting set to start rolling out of the shop, there is not much chance of them doing another. The good news is, Jamie will be taking it to select shows and events around the country so check it out if you see it and say hi to the guys.

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hooters bike night

Bradenton Hooters Wednesday Bike Night 4908 West 14 st.

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At this time of year we at Born to Ride want to reflect on the giving spirit of the biker community.

The holiday season is filled with worthy causes and poker runs. Anyone who is fundraising knows they can count on the motorcycle community to step up and contribute.They show up in force, toys strapped to their bikes, money in hand with big hearts and often tears in their eyes. Nothing tugs harder on your heart strings than a child with a serious illness, an orphaned or abused child or battered women,especially at this time of year. The charities are varied and the attendance is always over whelming...giving back and being thankful. Every MC club has a full calander during the holidays which kick off in the fall and run thru the end of December. Each HOG chapter works hard to benefit the downtrodden in their community.These same people are the first in line to buy toys during the Summer for the Christmas in July run.We are so proud to be associated with these kind and giving individuals and they truly do honor us by allowing us to be involved in the events. So at this time of year we want to salute all the riders who give so much all year and especially at the holiday season. It doesn’t matter what you ride or who you are, bikers will always be there when you need them. Have a happy safe holiday season and keep doing what you do.

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9th Great Teddy Bear Run for K.I.D.S. by the Sea As we pulled into the parking lot of the University Center Outlets Mall we were over whelmed by the number of motorcycles.

November 12th marked the 9th Annual Teddy Bear Run to benefit K.I.D.S. by the Sea and the Sarasota H.O.G. chapter had organized a police escorted ride that would take us to the Sarasota Fairgrounds. Why would big tattooed burley bikers come from all over the state with Teddy Bears strapped to their motorcycles? Because they have equally big hearts and many of them are also parents. Helping children with cancer softens even the most hard core biker. We at Born to Ride are extremely involved with the various charity rides and events at this time of the year and it makes us proud of the biker community as we’re never disappointed in their show of support.

This ride was just one of many that will kick off this season of giving. Previous Teddy Bear Runs have raised many thousands of dollars each year as well as providing new teddy bears that are distributed to area hospitals and out-patient clinics. Along the parade route supporters both young and old waved to us and families with small children cheered us on.

Cancer touches just about all of us at one time or another through friends or family members.

I was eight months pregnant when my husband was diagnosed with Hodgkins Disease, cancer of the Lymph Nodes. My daughter is now 23 but I do remember how confused and devastated we were.

Children are so innocent and it’s truly heartbreaking when one of them is hurt or victimized. No one knows what life will deal to them but to help lessen the pain, Jim and Connie Miles have made it their life’s mission to provide support to children affected by cancer and related illnesses. They started K.I.D.S. by the Sea, a legacy of love in remembrance of their 11 year old daughter, Marcia, who died on August 3, 1982 from cancer. Marcia’s last wish was to be able to play in the ocean and walk in the sand. Her wish was granted and she passed away the very next day. The organization was founded in 1984 and it serves over 500 children and families with cancer and other serious illnesses.

They provide emotional, physical and spiritual support. Family needs such as transportation to medical treatments and even a food pantry are provided. Special supported group activities along with summer camps and out-patient activities are also available. If you would like to open your heart and your wallet for this wonderful charity, they can be reached at 941-927-7020 or visit their website at www.HIS-KIDS.org.

Valerie Smith

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A Trailer Trash Craven Moorehead

F

or some reason, I still haven’t recovered from the disasters that came to me during the Thanksgiving holiday. It seems that the more that I drink to try to forget. The more I remember. Drinking, however, is a good thing. Nothing is quite as omnipresent as the Power of positive drinking! The essence of life is, of course, the ability to live without being incarcerated, incapacitated, or persecuted by those individuals that would keep you down, and prevent your intrinsic right to be free. Freedom as we know it however comes at a very high cost, especially at the holidays. I am truly a soldier of misfortune. I recently lost my job at the saw mill because the boss was porking the secretary, and his wife got pissed and took the business. Although I was being paid under the table, the attorneys and accountants for the company said the “incidental and contract labor” people had to go. I guess I was in that category. I never liked attorneys, but when you really need one, they will still screw you over. You gotta have them though. I even rent one myself, but you would think that I by God own him most times, for as much as he costs.

Although I was making enough to pay the lot rent, and beer budget from this job, I knew the bar would be raised when the ol lady found out that I wasn’t really going to work when I left every morning. The loss of this menial task would also affect my ability to frequent the local gentlemen’s clubs and taverns that desperately needed my business.

My plight was further intensified when the government cancelled my monthly subsidy checks and food stamp card. It seems that some nosy governmental geek had observed me cruising the town in Uncle Bob’s Escalade and made a report to the central office. I hate rats! As time drew closer to the “Big Holiday”, things got even worse. Knowing that the ol lady was expecting for Christmas, and remembering that I wasn’t getting any money in at all was taking a toll on my last brain cell.

Desperate times call for desperate measures. I knew I had to sell some s#*t fast! A quick survey of the lot yielded several dismal prospects. Being a good southerner, I had diligently stocked my yard with loads of junk. Junk being the key word here, my eyes quickly scanned past the pile of old engine blocks, the heap of twisted motorcycle frames, and the mountain of useless plumbing fixtures. The “best of the worst” items, and

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the ones I deemed most valuable were an old John Deere 180 tractor, and an antique hay bailing machine. Neither of these items were “currently operational” but with my well honed sales technique, I figured I’d be in the money in a matter of hours. I summoned the ol lady, and the girls from the trailer, and we set about the task of retrieving my ole equipment trailer from the pole barn, and rigging it to the Escalade. I lazily swigged a beer, as I watched the quartet of Daisy Duke Wannabee’s push the aging farm equipment up the ramps and onto the flatbed.

They squealed and cussed as one of the floorboards gave way under the weight of the tractor, but since the right front tire was now buried a foot deep into the metal frame, I wouldn’t have to waste the extra time binding down my load. When they jumped down, the ol lady asked me where I was taking all this junk. “Down to Grady’s Salvage and Farm Supply” I replied. An odd look came over her face. “You know Ol’ Grady don’t like you none-too-awful much.” “Maybe we should go with you, just to make sure tha…”

I stopped her in mid sentence, and said “Ya know, you might just be right about that!” You see Grady was an ex-cop from up north, who inherited his family’s junk business here in Florida. He didn’t like the south, and the “ignorant inbreeds” that inhabited it. He especially hated bikers, and had a special dislike for me and my circle of friends. But he did like the southern gals. A lot! I smiled as I thought to myself how lucky I was to still have Uncle Bob’s 3 semi-pro cuties on my team. Now all I had to do was give the 3 a quick refresher course on “Southern Drawl”, and the rest would be elementary. I quickly devised a plan, and sent the ol lady to the trailer to get my framing hammer, the GI-Joe Walkie-Talkies set and the keys to the pickup truck. The plan went like this: Me and the girls would go in first, and the ol lady would take the pickup and wait at the hard road near the entrance to Grady’s. If for some unknown reason there was a problem, I would call her on the walkie-talkie to bring the truck, and the needed implements already stashed in the rear window rifle rack. It was dusk when we left. As I rolled down the dirt road that led to the junk yard, I saw Grady hunched over an old bush hog mower attachment. Stinking of Gin, sweating and cussing and as usual Grady seemed to be in a bad mood. Realizing that Christmas would be ruined if I didn’t get some serious money, I would have to do my best to prop up the junk that I had delivered. All the stuff could of course, be repaired, that is if you had a masters degree in engineering, and a thousand or so dollars, but I didn’t care. I had an alternate plan.

If I couldn’t raise a few grand from the junk I brought, I knew for sure he’d spring for some quality time with the three southern belles I had in tow. “Hey old man” I hollered, “Look at this cool stuff I brought ya”! He glanced at the precious antiques for a moment and scratched his crotch. “Man, you sure come up here with a load of s#*t, didn’t ya Craven” he slurred. “I dunno if I got no money for this load of crap”. I then retorted with “Man you can have all this fine equipment for a reasonable cash donation of three K, or for the same figure, you can have what’s behind door #2”. At that moment as if on cue, Amanda, Becky and Crystal hopped out of the rear door of the SUV. Grady’s jaw dropped as he viewed the display of fresh meat before him. “Gawddamit dude, you out done yourself this time” he blurted with a grin a mile wide. “Hell, I would rather have these here gals than that other junk you brought here”. As he drooled with delight, I reminded him that “It is what it is” and all Sale’s are final. It was about this time when one of the girls said that they were all “Down with that”, and it was then that the deal went bad. Realizing that

Bikers Christmas

the girls weren’t authentic GRITS (Girls raised in the South), Old Grady started jumping up and down and cussing about how I tried to bring him damaged goods. He spun, and grabbed a steel pipe which he began flailing towards me and the girl’s, and after a very near miss, I reached for the hammer I had secreted in my belt near the small of my back. Still cussing, Grady wound his pipe up for the home run and I smacked him in the gourd with the broad side of the hammer. He was on the ground kicking and spinning like a sprayed roach, still flailing the pipe and yelling obscenities when I gave him a size 13 tranquilizer With my right foot. As he took a nap, Crystal and Becky went through his pockets, and retrieved about 40 bucks and an old pouch of Red Man. I grabbed the GI-Joe Walkie- Talkie from my vest and sent the “code red” signal. A moment later, the ol lady slides the pickup to a halt in a cloud of dust, and jumps out with my Winchester. Seeing Grady snoozing, she tossed it back in the front seat of the truck and joined Amanda and myself on a spontaneous Christmas shopping spree. Becky and Crystal were already looting the Farm Supply store for things that they thought we could use as gifts. We all rejoiced as we quickly loaded the pickup with our spoils. This would truly be a great Christmas!

It was definitely time to haul ass, as the junk man was waking up, and when I floored the SUV to depart, the makeshift hitch broke, leaving the trailer and the priceless farm gear in Grady’s gravel parking lot. There was no time to worry about that however, and in my mind, I knew that Grady would enjoy having that fine equipment in exchange for all the stuff we had taken. We blasted down the highway and arrived back at the trailer in record time.

We hid the pickup and our loot in the pole barn to assure that the inevitable visit from our local constable would be uneventful.

Later, I enjoyed killing a six pack just to watch it die, as I

wrapped some Christmas presents in brown paper grocery bags as I have done for so many years. Then it came to me. The vision of Christmas past, present and future, and all that other crap.

I immediately tore off a piece of grocery sack, and wrote down these words in respect for a poem I had heard somewhere in the past. “T’was the night before Christmas, when I left the trailer, with an old shot out tractor and a broken hay bailer. Looking for funds I did roll in the night, little did I know it would end up in a fight. As my quest carried on for the all mighty dollar, get the F#(k out, I heard the junk buyer holler! So I smacked his fat head with a 20 ounce hammer, then he spit and he fell and began to stammer “You red neck bikers just ain’t right!” So I kicked him with my boot and put out his lights. When I left the junk yard with the greatest of speed, I remembered to steal all the gifts that I need. A mixer, a toaster, a toilet, a bike, and all the cool things that the ol lady likes! Some spark plugs, some pipes, a transmission case, and a big rear view mirror so she can do her face. Some firearms, some chairs, a cooler and grill, and a big roll of tubing for my moonshine still. With all these cool presents loaded up in my truck I blasted down the highway like I don’t give a f#(k. Now that I’m home and the tools out of sight, Merry Christmas ya’ll and have a good f#(kin night!

When the sheriffs arrived at the trailer with a warrant for my arrest the girls all swore that I wasn’t at the junk yard at all.

They also said that I hadn’t been home for weeks. As I hid in my neighbors shed, I heard them tell them that I was partying with my attorney in Costa Rica. All ya’ll help me out by verifying this story should you be questioned during this on going investigation.

I appreciate your support! Merry Christmas to all and I will see you at Tijuana Bike Fest!

Send your comments on this article to dacrew@borntoride.com

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an, it seems like only yesterday that I dragge d my sorry butt out of bed at som e un-godly hour in ord er to get to Space Coast HD’s Gran d Opening ribbon cuttin signaling the start of bu g ceremony, siness at Brevard county ’s most prestigious Harley dealership. No w, one year later...we did it again, for the gala one year birthday bash! Saturday, Nov. 11, 2006 dawned bright and clear, and a bit on the cool side...a perfe ct day for riding, and ride they did! Baggers, sport bikes, antiques, trikes...you name it...they were here, to help Steve Octela and his staff celebrate 365 days of good busin ess and good times at the sprawling Palm Bay location just off Palm Bay Rd. at I.95 in southern Brevard.

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The kick-off party at Melbourne Hooters on Friday night helped to get everyone in the mood for the big party on Sat. Setting the mood on Sat., was the Steve Thorpe Blues Or chestra, along with Tribal Tongue, plus Do c Holiday filling in be tween sets with my favorite CD’s! The Pu rrfect Angelz wowed the crowd with their dance routines and oth er provocative antics, plus a biker ladys’ fashion presentation, while the Hooter’s ba bes manned the bike wash! Famed lady bik e builders, Shorty...the worlds first female builder, and Gypsy, the first female Biker Build -off winner, were present to sign just ab out anything, and dis cuss their machines with the multitude of male gawkers and ad mirers...yeah, me

the ride-in bike show, were guest judges at included! All the girls Trophies, by the winners’ trophies later.

Nicky-Bootz. and helped present the ild d by local bike bu er, ate ric fab nd ha all re way, we set-up was there to the Teresi Dyno-Drag e, sid l ica hn tec the On the horse power of racing, and to measure test your skill at drag er in the big lot, takers on that one. Ov your machine...lots of d the onlookers. we wo torcycle Drill Team Mo a rid Flo al ntr Ce the helicopter ride too. .? You could take a Feeling adventurous.. th food and drink, the grounds too, bo Plenty of vendors on ing a pretty brisk do en all day, and op s wa m roo w sho and the Cocoa Bch. Holiday A party after party at business I might add!

er a long day at respite for everyone aft Inn provided a welcome r Babies Poker Fo ers Bik 12, was the annual v.

No y, da Sun p. sho the we were unable to prior commitments, Run at the shop. Due ast HD and all the r thanks to Space Co oard...Darby to attend that one. Ou a n dynamo with clip-b ma hu the y all eci esp staff , self, plus a note of tality for Donna and my spi ho ir the for , r lle Ko security. Nice to MC for providing stage thanks to the Warlocks andu again too! All in and the radiant Katm see colleagues Rogue March of Dimes. t fi y, and all to bene the da le ab joy en y ver a all, a GOD Bless America!! rable George & Donn

Mise

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motormans TEST RIDE

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here’s something about Italian motorcycles that separates them from all others. It’s a very hard thing to put into words. A combination of character, quirkiness, style, sound and performance. One of the finest of the Italian motorcycles has to be the MV Agusta, regarded by many to be the Ferrari of motorcycles.

While I’ve ridden many sport bikes and enjoyed them all for their outstanding performance, sport bikes in general leave a lot to be desired in the comfort department. With the naked bike segment, you get 90% of the sport bike power and handling and virtually none of the back, neck and wrist pain normally associated with the average crotch rocket. That’s because the naked bikes provide an upright riding position.

With the MV Agusta 910 Brutale, you get the comfortable upright riding position and 98% of the performance of their F-4 sport bike, which is arguably the worlds finest motorcycle of its type.

The Brutale’s motor is a state of the art double overhead cam, 16 valve water cooled 4 cylinder which displaces 55.4 cubic inches and pumps out 136 hp at 11,000 rpms. That’s enough to push this 408 pound motorcycle to a top speed of 160 mph. Needless to say, acceleration is blindingly fast. It’s so quick that you have to be very careful with the throttle since the front wheel will shoot into the air with the slightest provocation. The best part of the Brutale has to be the beautiful music this bike makes as the revs climb. The combination of the intake roar and the exhaust is reminiscent of a Ferrari Formula One at 10,000 rpms. the sound is intoxicating and addictive.

Upon mounting the bike, I noticed the seat was angled down toward the tank. The bars were wide enough for good leverage and I didn’t have to lean too far to reach them. The clutch has a firm feel and a rather short engagement. Just one press on the starter button and the fuel injected Brutale springs to life. The stock exhaust must have somehow slipped by the EPA because this thing sounds great. The light flywheel makes the throttle a

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MV Agusta 910 Brutale little touchy and takes some getting used to. The Brutale is not a motorcycle for the meek or timid rider. This bike almost demands you pay attention. As soon as I started running up through the gears, the sound and power of this fine machine started raising the hairs on the back of my neck.

The ride is firm to be sure, but, that’s as it should be on an all out performance bike like this. The 6 speed transmission shifts quite smoothly and I never missed a shift. Though it’s a shame to lug the motor, I did short shift into 6th and rolled on the throttle from 40 mph in top gear, acceleration started to become quite brisk to put it mildly. The real fun though, is winding the Brutale up to 12,000 rpms in each gear. Doing so explained why the seat is tilted toward the tank. It’s everything you can do just to hold on with the force of the acceleration and the wind blasting you in the chest.

When the road starts to twist, the Brutale really comes into its own.

Handling is razor sharp. The bike seems to anticipate your every move.

Steering feedback is phenomenal. In short order, you connect with this motorcycle and become one with it. the tires stick like glue and I’d imagine only professional racers will find this bikes’ lean limits.

In short, the MV Agusta is an all out thrill to ride. Few riders will ever find its limits, but just think of the fun you can have trying.

For a test ride and a closer look, check out Euro Cycles of Tampa Bay. MSRP starts about 14,500 for the Brutale. In my opinion, it’s worth every penny.

Ride Safe, Motorman Have your motorcycle or product line tested call BTR at 813-661-9402

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WEST COAST BIKE RALLY SUNDAY POKER RUN ENDING AT PEGGY’S CORRAL

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West Coast Bike Rally

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West Coast Bike Rally

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West Coast Bike Rally

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West Coast Bike Rally

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MOTORMAN’S MEAN STREETS Beginner Riders My columns are usually geared toward the experienced rider. Mainly because I believe most people who read this magazine have been riding for a while, before they discovered Born to Ride Magazine. But, since more and more people are getting into motorcycling all the time and many of them are women, this is as good a time as any to gear an article to the brand new beginner rider. What’s more, I’ve received a lot of emails from people who have failed the beginner motorcycle safety course. These people tell me the MSF beginner course seemed to rush through the basics of clutch and throttle control and that most of the students already knew how to ride prior to taking the basic course.

Consequently, these brand new riders couldn’t move ahead in the class since they were still struggling to keep the bike from stalling on take off. Whether this is true or not, I can’t be sure. Either way, here’s my best tips for teaching a beginner. For all you experienced riders out there, you might want to pay attention since sooner or later, someone may ask you to teach them to ride and it’s best to start them off the right way.

First, let me say that if you’ve never learned to ride a bicycle or haven’t ridden a bicycle in many years, master that skill first. In fact, you can go to my website, ridelikeapro.com and download the motorcycle practice guide for free. Then, use the exercises and techniques I talk about in the practice guide to hone your skills. For a bicycle rider, cut all the cone measurements in half and you’ll have a great course to practice on.

Once you’ve mastered the bicycle, you can move onto a motorcycle.

The first thing you should do is familiarize yourself with the controls such as the clutch (left hand grip), the front brake, (right hand grip), the throttle and the rear foot brake control. The shift lever is the foot control by the left foot peg. You should be able to touch all these controls without ever looking down at them. If the bike has a center stand, put it on the stand, start the bike and operate all the controls while keeping your head and eyes up.

Once you can operate all the controls without looking at them, shut the motor off and have a dedicated friend push you around a bit in order to insure that you can balance the bike and begin getting a feel for the brakes, both front and rear. Once you’re confident you can

stop the bike, you’ll be ready to learn to use the clutch and throttle.

If you’ve never driven a stick shift car, this could be the most difficult and potentially dangerous part of the learning process.

Here’s the easy way to learn to coordinate the clutch and throttle.

Pull the clutch in, start the bike and push down on the shift lever.

Put your right foot on the brake. Now, roll back the throttle until the motor revs at about twice idle speed. Hold the throttle steady and let the clutch out very slowly until you feel the bike wanting to move forward. Keep enough pressure on the rear brake and don’t let the bike move. Once you feel the bike pulling against the brake, hold it like that for a second or two, then pull the clutch back in. Repeat this step at least 10 times. This will give you a good idea of where the friction zone starts.

Next, do the same thing, except keep both feet on the ground and allow the bike to creep forward as you begin duck walking the bike 10 or 20 times as well. Now, your ready to get the bike moving under it’s own power. You already know where the clutch grabs so it’s not going to come as a surprise. Hold the throttle steady at twice idle speed and slowly let the clutch out all the way. Duck walk the bike forward for a few feet then get both feet up on the pegs and feed a little more throttle. Next, pull in the clutch and slowly apply the brakes and stop the bike. Repeat this process of starting and stopping as many times as necessary or until you can start off smoothly and stop smoothly every time. You’ve now mastered the take off and you’re ready for more.

Make sure you practice in an empty parking lot. Never on a side street. Even if there’s little or no traffic on the street, there are still too many obstacles such as mail boxes, street signs, etc.

For more information on the beginner rider, check out my Learn to Ride the Easy Way DVD. It is everything the beginner rider needs to learn to ride safely. You’ll be way ahead of the game and the star student at the basic MSF course.

Ride Safe, Jerry “Motorman” Palidino

ROGUE’S TECH TIP

David Covington’s 103-inch Pan engine built by Berry Wardlaw.

The motorcycle show circuit has always been very competitive and it continues to be hot to the touch. The top builders in the country continue to show their new creations and young builders are building names for themselves. But we’re not rowing that boat currently. We’re here to discuss engines, hot, wild radical engines built by Berry Wardlow from Accurate Engineering.

More and more show builders are using engines by Berry, in Dothan, Alabama. In many cases these engines added reliability and the wild custom edge to win. Each hand-crafted engines are as exotic as the motorcycles, they run hard and are dependable.

Big Inch Knuckleheads, Panheads and Shovelheads on the same tough, strong bottom ends, No Problem. Blowers, Turbos, Multiple Carburetors you name it they do it.

They build stock to hot street, big bore or stroker engines in numerous styles, sizes and finishes at very reasonable prices.

Berry is not a new kid on the block. I met him in 1988, when I was returning from Phil Peterson’s Miami to Key West Poker Run and stopped at the Overseas Lounge to attend a benefit for a lady rider friend, named STAR, who was killed riding back from Daytona earlier in the year.

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I was riding my Turbocharged Shovelhead and of course we got into a conversation about it. He moved to West Melbourne Florida in 1989 and went to work at Harley Motor Works where I was employed. We rode and partied together along with his dog WENDY who rode with him everywhere. He went to Sturgis for the 50th anniversary, then to Flagstaff and in 1991 Alaska all the time working in motorcycle shops.

In 1996 he ended up in Dothan, Alabama and opened Accurate Engineering. He had some contacts and a good reputation, and the business grew. He got a little ink in some publications and eventually supplied all the Panhead engines for Panzer, an aftermarket motorcycle manufacturer.

Barry and Billy Lane. One of the builders who regularly uses Accurate engines is Billy Lane of Choppers Inc. here in Melbourne, Florida. I was at Billy’s shop shooting some photos for him while he worked on the Camel Bike. It is the one that has the hubless rear wheel.

I just returned to Florida from Berry’s shop and Billy and I discussed the Camel project. Billy previously owned engines by Berry, and he mentioned that using one of the Accurate engines would guarantee the Camel Bike to be a winner. I dialed up Berry quick, explained to him what was going on and put Billy on the phone. They worked out the details and deadlines.

Berry, and some of his crew, came to Melbourne. They crashed

ENGINES WITH ACCURATE ENGINEERING

at my place on the weekend, and we rode over to Chopper Inc. to Accurate Engineering, step-studs and 12-point hardware. STD full install the engine and got it running. All the while the Discovery polished stock style ‘63-’65 Panheads with 3-bolt exhaust flanges.

Channel filmed the process.

Accurate Engineering stainless steel overhead oil line. Accurate The motorcycle was such a success and the engine so popular, Engineering braided oil return lines. that Billy continued to use Accurate engines in various other Kibblewhite valves, Rowe guides, Kibblewhite springs, K-Line projects. As a matter of fact when Bill and Indian Larry had their seals and Accurate Engineering rocker arm bearings. Billet finned competition they both sported Accurate Engines in their bikes.

Pan covers with Accurate Engineering “Leak Proof” gaskets. Ross Since then numerous other builders search out Berry’s hot pistons, Hastings rings, Teflon buttons. A .540 lift cam. Accurate reliable engines for projects. Look for the Accurate gang at Engineering intake manifold, linkage, etc. Dual 1937 Stromberg various up-coming shows around the country.

‘97 carbs reworked by Accurate Engineering and topped off with YEAH, I AM PREJUDICE “Bonneville” style velocity stacks. Porcelain toilet handle for carb I like Berry, but I also like his work so much I have his engines in from the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel.

Pinstripping by Henry Haynes. STD polished crankcases, S&S all my bikes, except the 2004 Harley Electric Glide. We’ve both been too busy to mess with it. Yes, you can have an Accurate flywheels, shafts and rods. S&S oil pump, Accurate Engineering Engineering Engine too. He’s good people and will build engines oil filter adaptor. Jim’s lifter and Accurate Engineering pushrods. for anyone, even the Famous Builders and Celebrities. Contact Mallory ignition system, Dyna coil, Autolite spark plugs and Taylor Accurate Engineering at 334-702-1993 or visit their web site at wires. 32 amp Cycle Electrics charging system.

All welding, machining, assembly and testing performed http://www.accurate-engineering.com. I do believe that he even has a couple of complete motorcycles with his engines in them in-house by Accurate Engineering. Plating by Chromemasters.

Polishing by Steve’s Polishing and Accurate Engineering. Paint For Sale. work by Accurate Engineering.

Accurate Engine Specs Here’s an example of an Accurate built engine, the components Text and photos by Rogue and details: David Covington’s engine. 103 cu. in Panhead, 4.5- Motorcycle Hall Of Fame Member 2005 inch stroke, 3-13/16-inch Accurate Engineering cylinders with www.bikerrogue.com

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SPIKE

“THE WRITING AND RIDING PARROT” The chanting from both sides of the courtroom was going back and forth like a Miller Lite commercial. The judge was letting it go and the media was getting it all down on paper, drawing like kindergarten students receiving candy for chicken scratch artwork. Judge Brown finally pounded his gavel and stated,” all right, all right, we get the picture Mr. MacKay. Now where is your star witness?” With that said the rear doors of the court room swung open and Mary the Mountie entered with 2 very sexy and half dressed female deputies by her side. Her hat was missing, her hair a mess, and as she walked by she smelled like a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. The 3 approached the judge and she stated, “I’m sorry your honor, I’m a Bald Beaver from Canada and lost my way. Two of your Pinellas’ finest found me in the back room of Diamond Dolls and helped me to see how you do things in FL. May I take the stand?’ Judge Brown allowed her and she spoke, “Spike, I know you and believe in you as if you where my son. Your tongue and touch is too soft to ever hurt anyone. Even though I am your illegitimate mother and working for the prosecution side, I can swear by the Mountie in me you are innocent of murder but guilty by association with me and my 2 new girlfriends, thank you!” Then she winked at me and blew me a kiss before sliding off the witness stand and leaving a residue of peanut butter, jelly, and whipped cream behind.

Again the court room went nuts with Judge Brown laughing so hard he could not hold onto his gavel. Finally catching his breath and grabbing his gavel, he pounded it down profusely and the court room became quiet. He allowed the prosecution to start with their witnesses. First up was Joanne and she spoke, “ His black beak is very scary and totally grosses me out. He squawks loudly at you when you hug Mike on the wrong side. He must be guilty, that bad bird!” Big Al stepped up and spoke, ‘Spike is really out on a limb this time and should hang for this one. I’ve seen him do bad things at my Christmas party, he could of done it! You should see what he did to my chair, chewing it up with his beak.

And that ‘poop’ trick wasn’t working in my house either. Hell, if the prosecution can’t get him for murder, I’ve got a bottle of BBQ sauce with his name on it!” Suddenly, through a side door came a man wearing a white coat holding an envelope. He approached Judge Brown and stated,” I’m from the autopsy lab and I’m personally bringing you this evidence.” The silence in the court room was deafening. It was so quiet now that if Spike was to lose a feather you would hear it spiraling to the ground. Judge Brown read it, looked up and stated “Dr Harris died at 4:30am from a heart attack. The video tape showed Spike still unconscious at this time. So when he awoke, the doctor had already passed away.

The ruling by definitive evidence is that Spike is innocent and truly a Free Bird, case dismissed!!!” So now, all my friends do like Mike and I do: “Keep your wheels on the road and your wings in

Undertaker reads BTR

the wind!” SPIKE

Send your biker animal photos & stories to content@borntoride.com BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 87

Quaker Steak and Lube

Mega Bash Bike Give Away

On October 29th, 2006 Quaker Steak and Lube along with Fletchers Harley-Davidson did it again! Only this time they gave away two motorcycles. Paul Morrill won a Custom 2005 Suzuki GXR 1000 and Kathleen Bardar won a 2006 Harley Davidson Soft Tail Classic.

Bob and Lucille Fletcher were personally on hand to congratulate the winners. This Mega Bash also included a costume contest won by “The Atomic Butt Crack”. All of the

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QS&L staff were in costume as well as Bill Church dressed as “Sporty Bill” (one of the well known vendors).The Conk Critters opened the show with The Bobby Friss Band headlining. The place rocked all day long. Radical Randy and his Radical Team raffled off big prize baskets. There was a great bike show and a lot of people went home happy. Over 2000 bikes attended the event and 450 cars were counted. You can

see more of the photos at Event Photos on borntoride.com. The next big bike give away will be held on April 21st, 2007.Be there and don’t forget to enter the contest.

You may be the next one to ride off into the sunset on a Fletchers Harley-Davidson won from Quaker Steak and Lube. Good Luck!

Valerie Smith

See more pics at Event Photos at www.borntoride.com.

IT’S MY OPINION AND YOUR WELCOME TO IT DR. DONNA 1.

Dear Dr. Donna, I see from your article, you’re in favor of racial profiling. If profiling works, why don’t the police use it? I’m betting you think water boarding and torture should be used on people as well, even though they don’t work.

Personally, as a compassionate American, I believe if we treat people with kindness, we’ll be treated with kindness and respect in return. Fighting terrorists only create more terrorists.

Mad in Melbourne

Dear Mad in Melbourne, You are so out of touch with reality, it’s hard to believe we live on the same planet.

But, that’s typical of Liberals. To answer your first question, profiling DOES work and the police use it everyday here in the real world. Here’s how it works, pea brain.

The police arrive at a crime scene, they get a description of the suspect, and they put out a be on the look out or B.O.L.O. for the suspect. They don’t put out a B.O.L.O. for persons that do not match the description of the suspect because that would be just plain stupid.

As far as water boarding or torturing terrorists, I’m all for whatever it takes to save the lives of innocent Americans. In spite of what the Liberal media tells you, torture does work, and it works quickly. Just ask Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, the mastermind of the 9-11 attack on America. He sang like a bird in 2 minutes. Call me crazy, but I worry more about innocent Americans rights than the rights of terrorists.

As far as fighting terrorism creating more terrorists, that makes no sense at all.

Did fighting Nazi’s create more Nazi’s? Of course not. In the real world, treating the enemy with kindness doesn’t work. Giving a terrorist a snorkel before water boarding him won’t work either.

Killing the enemy before they can kill you works every time.

2.

Dear Dr. Donna, My husband just bought a new Harley Night Train. He then replaced the already

tiny stock seat with an even smaller low profile seat. I think this skinny little seat makes my ass look too big, but, my husband says he likes it. What should I do?

A little Chubby in Chattanooga

Dear A Little Chubby in Chattanooga, I’m not clear on what your problem is.

Are you saying your husband likes your big ass? If so, I don’t see a problem. Just keep eating the Twinkies. Or, are you saying he likes the skinny seat and doesn’t care that it makes your ass look too big? If that’s the case, stop eating the Twinkies, or get your own bike and get a seat big enough to make your ass look small. Your question contains too many ifs, ands, and butt’s.

3.

Dear Dr. Donna, My wife and I have been married for only 2 years. From day one, every time we have a disagreement, my wife screams, “I want a divorce.” Even the little things like, I want pizza and she wants Chinese, arguments end with, “I want a divorce.” The other day I got stuck in traffic on my way to pick her up from work. I was 5 minutes late! She gets in the car and screams, “I want a divorce!” This is starting to get on my nerves. What should I do?

Dis-paired in Daytona Dear Dis-paired in Daytona, Get a divorce!

4.

Dear Dr. Donna, My husband and I get along great.

We both ride motorcycles and love taking long rides together. My husband treats me like gold and even spoils me, which I love.

I thought our relationship was perfect until I had a long talk with my best friend, who I’ll call Rita. Rita and her husband have the exact opposite kind of relationship.

They fight and argue constantly and call each other vile names. Rita has told me she often cheats on her husband and he does the same to her. The other day I asked her why they stay together. She said it’s because married couples are supposed to fight and argue and their relationship is normal. She then said, any man who treats his wife the

way my husband treats me is doing so out of guilt and probably cheats on me all the time. Rita then said she could prove it to me. Rita suggested I let her get my husband alone and she would make a play for him.

Rita states if he sleeps with her, I’ll know what a louse he really is and that will save me the heartache in the long run.

I believe she may have a point. Do you think I should let Rita attempt to seduce my husband and test his love for me or is it possible Rita doesn’t have my best interest in mind? Rita is quite attractive and rather flirty, so if my husband refuses her advances, I’ll know he really loves me.

What do you think?

Unsure in Union Dear Unsure in Union, Every time I think I’ve heard from every dumbass in the world, a person like yourself comes along and proves me wrong.

You’re not sure if Rita has your best interest in mind? Are you kidding me? You and your husband love each other, he treats you wonderfully and you’re thinking of giving hot, little slut Rita an attempt to seduce him? Have you lost your freakin’ mind?

This is what you should do. First, smack Rita in the face and tell her to stay as far away from you and your husband as possible. Next, count your blessings, then sign yourself in at my Institute for the Stupid.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, etc. Hope Santa brings you everything in the color of chrome.

Please remember our troops and their families during this Christmas Season, say an extra prayer for all of them. Thank a Vet when you see one, it will make their day. A big shout out to PFC Ryan Kitchens.

Ryan is now in Iraq with his unit from Fort Bliss, God Bless you all and stay safe! Also, congrats to Ryan and his lovely bride!!!

Till next month, if you need my help, shoot me an email,drdonna@borntoride. com I’ll make sure you get the help you so darn well deserve. Ride safe!

COMING NEXT MONTH.... QUANTUM LEAP FARMS

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CHRISTIAN MOTORCYCLISTS ASSOCIATION our Savior’s Birth. Several have tried to get away from this truth by covering it with other activities, but the bottom-line is this is God in human form coming to earth for one purpose, “Our Salvation.”

Christ’s death on the cross was an event in history that without it, we were doomed to a deserving Hell. Motorcycles are cool, but God giving us his Son; so that we might have a highway to Heaven, is awesome. Every year on January 1st, the Tampa Chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Assoc. has what we call the “High Noon” Ride. The ride starts at Noon and we invite bikers to share with us in this tradition. This New Year tradition began about 15 years ago when a few Covenant Riders from Tampa wanted to meet at Noon to enjoy New Years with a motorcycle ride. Over the years this has multiplied with several Biker Clubs and others joining us.

We start around 11AM with donuts and coffee. We then head out for maybe a 1-hour ride and come back for lunch and finish with a drawing. There is a small donation to join the Tampa Covenant Riders in this annual event and we extend an invitation to all Bikers. A Bike Blessing before the ride will take place which is a great way to start off the year. Please join us as we start another year and have Jesus as your Lord riding lead.

T

he Holiday Season is upon us and we’re about to attend many Christmas Toy Runs. This is the time of giving and passing our abundance to those less fortunate. In this frantic time, sit back and take a few minutes to think about what Christmas is all about. This is the time of the year we celebrate

John Sagraves, Christian Motorcyclists Assoc. Tampa, Florida, Covenant Riders. Chapter #349 jhns@msn.com (813) 601-3380 http://cmaser6.org/FL/COVENANTRIDERS/default.aspx BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 93

Budweiser Presents SLICK’S SCOOTER SCHEDULE Saturday, December 02 INVERNESS - 28th Annual Citrus United Basket Toy Run. Toy Run leaves Vineyard Christian Center @ 12 noon, please bring a NEW unwrapped toy, info Cheryl, (352)563-9900 or Jerry 352-1218 hdcrystalriver.com Vineyard Christian Center, 960 S US HWY 41 LEESBURG - 3rd Lake County United Motorcyclist Association Toy Run. 9-10:30am registration at Gator H-D, info: Logan 352742-7754 Gator H-D, 1745 US HWY 441 PLANT CITY - Plant City Bike Fest. 5:0010:00pm info 813-754-3707 or www. plantcitybikefest.com Historic Plant City Train Depot, 102 N. Palmer St. ST PETERSBURG - Biff-Burger’s 10th Annual Toys for Tots Benefit Bike Show. info 727527-5297 biffburgers.com 3939 49th St N Sunday, December 03, 2006 INGLIS - Vietnam Vets M/C, Legacy Vets M/C, X Chapter 1st T. Noon kick stands up Mouse Trap Saloon, 48 Hwy 19, ride to The Oar House, 2581 NW Hwy 19, Crystal River. $10.00 admission info Kato, 352-457-5566 Mouse Trap Saloon, 48 US HWY 19 LAKELAND - Polk County 23rd Annual Toy Run. Leave at 1 pm from Christina Park in Lakeland, Police escorted ride. Info Barb, 863-661-6727 www.abateflorida.com/polk Christina Park, Laleland, FL, Cr-540a & S Florida Ave MERRITT ISLAND - Brevard ABATE Silver Anniversary Toy Run. 8:00 AM Merritt Square Mall, toy/game and one stuffed animal OR a $10 donation, leaves at noon. Benefits local charities info Theresa 321-452-9792, www.brevard.abateflorida.com 777 E. Merritt Island Causway PORT CHAROLOTTE - Lingerie Run. Registration is at Wllies at 11:30am, last bike out at 1:00pm Willies, US 41 ST PETERSBURG - 19th Jim Rosenkran’s Memorial Toy Run. 8:00-9:55 AM registration, $10 or a new unwrapped toy per person to participate in the ride. Benefits local schools, charities, & families, info 727-527-9672 www.jimshd.com Jim’s H-D, 2805 54th Ave N TAMPA - 13th Cookson Hills Toy Run. 10:30am-12:20pm auction, sheriff escorted ride leaves Veteran’s Memorial Park (Hwy 301S & the by-pass canal just south of State Fairgrounds). Benefits Cookson Hills Family Ministries of FL, Inc. info (813) 681-1942, cooksontoyrun@aol.com www. cooksontoyrun.com Veteran’s Memorial Park, Hwy 301 S SARASOTA - West Coast ABATE’s 26th Annual Toy Run. Reg 9AM City Island. Escort-

ed Ride 10:30. Unwrapped Toy. Info: Mark 941-350-9211 Saturday, December 09, 2006 Lake wales - bike fest see page 86 for info Daytona Beach - Christmas on Main Street see page 25 for info AVON PARK - 7th Annual Lake Placid Food And Toy Run. 11:00 AM, Starting from the First Christian Church Parking behind the Avon Park McDonald’s. Bring an unwrapped toy and non-perishable food item. info Tony at 863-452-8570 or 863-453-4611. First Christian Church, 1016 West Camphor St BROOKSVILLE - 17th Annual Shriners Hospital Motorcycle Toy Run. New, unwrapped presents to give patients upon arrival.

Ride begins at 11:29am sharp parking lot at the SE corner Truck Route 50 and Hwy 41 Brooksville (near Walgreens Pharmacy).

Info Hop Artman 352-597-2369. www.shrinershq.org/hospitals/tampa ORLANDO - Central FL Children’s Home 17th Annual Toy Run. 11:30 from Amazon Mall (Old Builder’s Square Parking Lot) to bring all the toys to the children at the Home. info 407.282.1010 Betty’s Laughing Horse, 907 N. Goldenrod Road Sunday, December 10, 2006 Ocala - Steel Wheels Saloon Toy Run See pg 89 for info New Port Richey - Putt in and Pig Out Bike Show and Pig Roast see page 72 for info FT MYERS - Annual Southwest Chapter ABATE Christmas Run. 9-noon registration at H-D of Ft Myers, escorted run departs at 12:30pm. www.abateflorida.com/southwest/index.html H-D Ft Myers, 2160 Colonial Blvd OCALA - 16th Annual Ocala H.O.G. Toy Run. 12:00 registration at Sheriffs N. SubStation Hwy 441 / SE 301, North of H-D of Ocala. Ride leaves 1:00PM and ends at H-D of Ocala. info: 352-629-1238 www.ocalahogchapter.com Sheriff’s N. Sub-Station, 5331 N US HWY 441 ORLANDO - 4th Orlando H-D & Bikers 4 Tots Toy Run. 9am registration at East Orlando HD, 11898 Lake Underhill Rd, 407-447-7400, $20 or a new unwrapped toy of equal value, 10am first out www.orlandoharley.com/ East Orlando H-D, 11898 Lake Underhill Rd POMPANO BEACH - 19th Annual SFPC Christmas Toys in the Sun Run. 7am gates open and line up at Pompano Harness Track 9:45am departure, $10 and one unwrapped toy per person. info wogprincess@aol.com www.toysinthesunrun.com Pompano Harness Track, 1800 SW 3rd St ST PETERSBURG - 22nd Annual Vietnam Vets Toy Run. Register at Derby Lane Dog Track, $10 entry and a new unwrapped toy, ends at St Petersburg Moose Lodge on 58th

Ave N, free food and beverage, music by the Edgewater Band, benefits the Cookson Hills Children’s Home Derby Lane Dog Track, 10490 Gandy Blvd N Saturday, December 16, 2006 palm bay, space coast - 6th annual cystic fibrosis foundation Harley Davidson giveaway see page 67 for details Brandon - Horse drawn carriage rides see page 18 for details Tampa, Brandon, New Port Richey - Free gift wrapping & cookies every weekend 12/16 thru Christmas See Page 18 for details TAMPA - 10th Annual All Children’s Teddy Bear & Toy Run. info 813-930-6405 www. tampabdm.com Big Dog Motorcycles, 9528 N Florida Ave Clearwater - Photos w/ Santa see pg 27 for info TAMPA - BUDDY’s Annual Christmas Children’s Safety Day - See Pg 54 for details.

Sunday, December 17, 2006 Palmetto - Bike Party see page 80 for details CLEARWATER - 26th Annual Suncoast Brotherhood’s Toy Run. kickstands up at noon, info (727) 518-0864 www.suncoastbrotherhood. org K-Mart Parking Lot, 26996 US HWY 19 N NAPLES - 12th Annual Bikes-for Tykes Christmas Run. 11am first bike out from Porky’s Last Stand, Bring No Toys, Bikes for Tykes is an organization that takes old bicycles and refurbishes them to give to needy children at Christmas time. Ends in east Naples, info Cadillac 239-263-6919, Porky’s Last Stand, 2560 39th St SW LARGO - Street Eagle Grand Opening Party, See Page 57 for details.

Saturday, December 23, 2006 haines city - bike fest see page 59 for details Clearwater - Fletchers holiday customer appreciation see page 27 for details Saturday, December 30, 2006 Homosassa - Bikemosphere see page 76 for details Friday, January 05 - 07, 2007 SARASOTA - 9th Annual Thunder By The Bay Motorcycle Festival. ends on 1/7/2007.

Info (941) 371-8820 ext. 1800. www.thunderbythebay.org Sarasota/Bradenton International Convention Center, 8005 15th St E

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