Contents
December Issue 151
Ad Index
Features Attorney Fran Haasch Food Drive Thunder By The Bay at the Ranch Wreaths Across America Phil Peterson’s Key West Poker Run Barneys Celebrating 70 Years Test Ride-Yamaha SCR 950 Great American Motorcycle Show
8 14 21 29 36 38 65
Columns
14
Craven Moorehead-Christmas Spyke & Mike Christian Motorcycle Association
69 79 80
Departments Food Review: Burger Culture 61 Everywhere Eddy-Is Everywhere 60 Biker Movie Review-Then Came Bronson 77 Born To Ride Kids 80
Reports
21
Finz Finds-Cruise for Cash Rob Cartwright Tribute Ultra Bright LED Lights Nation’s Fire The Movie Copperhead Lodge
17 34 48 64 70
On The Cover
19th Annual Thunder By The Bay Rockin’ & Ridin’ at the Ranch Jan 5-8 www.Thunderbythebay.org
Start Born To Ride TV and Magazine in your city! Call 888-795-5779 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. 888-795-5779, Fax 813-689-2996.
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AAA 6 Adopt-A-Family 72 Affordable Motorsports 62 Al Estes Bail Bonds 68 Allstate - Jeff Ard 76 All World Lift Truck 64 Applebee’s 46 Attorney Fran Haasch IFC, 7, BC Barney’s 35 Biff Burger 3, 4 Buccaneers Motorcycle Rally 5 BTR Lifestyle 43 BTR Facebook 57 BTR Free on Three 41 BTR Pin-Up Girls 57 BTR Radio 53 BTR TV 74 CJ Seats 78 Copperhead Lodge 71 Cycle-Rama 45 Custom T-Shirt Quilt Company 73 Find It Now 43 Florida’s West Coast 18 Fort Myers Bike Night 59 Fun Bike Center 19 Gibtown Bike Fest 50 Great American Motorcycle Show 67 Heat Up 55 Heart Strings for Heros 51 H-D Crystal IBC H-D Lakeland 20 H-D Manatee 27 H-D Rossiter’s 27 H-D War Horse IBC JT’s Roadhouse 54 L.A.M.A. Sarasota 11 Locks of Love 4 Love Jugs 64 Media Design Shop 43 Mugs -n- Jugs 57 No Rules Rock-98.7 FM 56 Optical Elegance 76 Overhead Door 45 Peggy’s Corral 26 Riders on the River 46 Sabrina “Nova” Tropf 49 24 Saddle Creek Screwie Louie’s-Scooter Haven 44 Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q 52 Stitch On Time 68 Suncoast Brotherhood 42 Tampa Triumph 28 Thunder By The Bay 12 Toys Wanted 62 Tropic Trailer 58 Ultra Bright LED Lights 45 Vietnam Vets Toy Run 10 Venom & Venom 2 47 Wings-n-Weenies 73 Wreaths Across America 25
BORN TO RIDE Magazine
PO BOX 3021 Brandon, FL 33509
PUBLISHER
Ron Galletti 813-785-3895 rg@borntoride.com CO PUBLISHER
Deb Galletti dgalletti@borntoride.com ART DIRECTOR
Shawn Jones art@borntoride.com
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Jesse Williams jwilliams@borntoride.com ART DEPARTMENT
Seth Wuertz, Juan Guzman, art@borntoride.com
WEB DESIGN/ELECTRONIC MEDIA
Juan Guzman
BRAND & MARKETING DEVELOPER
Josh Pope
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Jim Miller
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Jesse Williams
OFFICE ADMINISTRATION
Nancy Ray nray@borntoride.com
MULTI-MEDIA SPECIALIST
Seth Wuertz
THE EVERYWHERE TEAM
Everywhere Eddy & Lynne Motejaitis ROAD CREW
Vick Velosity, Kenny Bowers, Mr. Clean, Charlie Kelley, Craven Moorehead, Bam Bam, Victor Lima, Birdman Mike SCENIC RIDE CONSULTANT
Steve Finzelber-Finz Finds CONTRIBUTORS
Neale Bayly, Paul Garson, Craven Moorehead, Jim Miller, Spyke & Mike, Susan Hurst, Bill McDaniel, Eric Albright, Roger Wiles, Krusin with Katie Rob Brooks, Eric Vician, Misfit Millie PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jim Miller, Jesse Williams, Neale Bayly, Michael Whitney, Ron & Selena Hawks, Chris Miller, Scott Odel, Bryan Lambert, Mathew Jacobson, Brent Michael, Mike McBee, Bruce Burman, Eric Albright, Vick Velosity, Rob Brooks
Advertise in FLorida or Georgia BTR Magazine Call the Sales Office
(888) 795-5779
Like us on Facebook: Born To Ride TV & Magazine and always check out BornToRide.com
BORN TO RIDE, INC. P.O. Box 3021 Brandon, FL 33509 info@borntoride.com BORNTORIDE.COM || BTR BTR 55 BORNTORIDE.COM
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This is the time of year when the west coast of Florida comes alive with the roar of motorcycles and love bursting at the seams for the local charity, Suncoast Charities for Children! Lakewood Ranch is where Thunder By The Bay will be held. TBTB was always held downtown Sarasota. But, because of some unwilling downtown business owners and various downtown residents not wanting to play nice, the location for this formidable event was up in the air for months. Lucy Nicandri, executive director for Suncoast Charities for Children and the festival coordinator, spent some time with me talking about TBTB 2017. The great news is that the new location is bigger and better! “Well, the two-day festival will be at the Premier Sports Center at Lakewood Ranch which is just east of I-75, off State Road 70. It’s a huge acreage of land that we will be able to utilize and grow the festival. In our previous downtown location, we were basically bursting at the seams. There was no way we could add anything new due to the space limitations downtown. So, I want BTR 14 | BORNTORIDE.COM
to acknowledge John Saputo, the owner of Gold Coast Eagle Distributing in Sarasota. If it had not been for John putting me in touch with President and CEO of SchroederManatee Ranch, Rex Jensen, we would not have had a home in time for TBTB 2017. It has been so refreshing and pleasant to work with such caring and kind people. So, what the new festival location is, for Saturday and Sunday, will allow our vendors to set up on Friday versus getting there at the break of dawn and trying to set up in a stressful time span and in the dark.” I was fortunate to speak with John Saputo, owner of Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, and one of the major sponsors of TBTB. “When the Suncoast Charities informed their major sponsors, like my company, that they were having trouble with the high expense of holding Thunder By The Bay in downtown Sarasota, and after numerous attempts that the committee made to help TBTB stay in downtown Sarasota, we saw that our attempts were futile. The neighborhoods surrounding downtown Sarasota were adamant about the event leaving downtown.
There was no way to appease these people and on top of that, it was getting more and more expensive for the charity to constantly satisfy everyone. What many people don’t know is that the charity had to fund a weekend stay out of town for these people to leave their condo during the weekend. If they didn’t, these people would call the police on the event. When we saw this impasse, we knew that we had to start looking for a new venue.” “Immediately, it came to my mind the Lakewood Ranch area would be excellent for this. After Lucy had the first meeting with SMR Lakewood Ranch and Rex Jensen, the Sports Complex jumped on this opportunity immediately to host this large and important event. We can tell now that working with the folks at Lakewood Ranch is going to be an easy transition and the charity should make a lot more money – 20%–25% more – based on the fact that we can hold more people, we can do longer hours with the bands, and working with Lakewood Ranch is like working with a corporation. Working with a corporation – versus a government entity –
What: Thunder By The Bay, When: January 5 – 8, 2017, Where: Lakewood Ranch Sports Complex,
has only a few reporting bodies to report to. It’s much easier to get decisions and things done quicker.” Now having more room to move around and grow this well-known festival, there are new items for everyone to enjoy! Lucy explained, “We are adding some new things this year: The Wall of Death, bigger vendor/demo displays, and comfortable Festival seating for guests “Under The Big Top”! “In addition to those items, we will have another tent where there will be ‘Taste of Thunder.’ This will be Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. For a $10 donation, you can sample five tastings of various craft beers, wines or spirits. You pick what you want to sample. It’s something new and different as well.” Thunder By The Bay has NEVER disappointed the participants when it comes to the talented musicians! Lucy was very excited to share with me the following: “Our band line up is great this year! Saturday will be: Twinkle & Rock Soul Radio, Diary Of An Ozzman (Ozzy Osbourne Tribute), Keep The Faith (Bon Jovi Tribute), KISS America
(KISS Tribute), and Def Leggend (Def Leppard Tribute). On Sunday there will be: Enjoy the Ride (Sugarland Tribute), Bobby Friss, and my personal, long-time favorite, Blue Öyster Cult at 4:00 p.m.! Blue Öyster Cult has been one of my beloved bands since I heard their music for the first time in the 1970s. Spanning three decades, Blue Öyster Cult has a long and storied history. The band got its start in the late 60s on Long Island, New York, as the Soft White Underbelly. Each member had been involved in bands previously in both high school and college. I know I’m looking forward to hearing “The Reaper,” “Burnin’ For You,” and “Godzilla.” My favorite album growing up was “Agents of Fortune.” I truly wore that album out! On Saturday night, there will be the Light Up The Night Bike Show Saturday night. “Many motorcycles have amazing lights incorporated into their rides. Hundreds of bikers – and non-bikers alike – look forward to this light show.” On Sunday, there will be an 18-class bike show that is always a crowd favorite! “The
Why: Fundraiser for Suncoast Charities for Children, Web: ThunderByTheBay.org • 941-487-7904
famous Born To Ride bike show brings in motorcycles from all over Florida AND out of state as well! This is another crowd favorite!” One event that the staff of Born To Ride looks forward to attending is the huge kickoff party! This will be held Friday night, 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., at the Pollo Grill & Bar (10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch). This is one of the fundraisers for the Suncoast Charities for Children. Tickets are $100 each. The Billy Rice band will be playing, and he is always a crowd favorite. What you get for your $100 is many tasting stations, a silent auction, an open bar, valet parking and a designated bike parking area. The tickets for this event are limited, so you should consider getting your tickets now and not miss out on this memorable and fun event! The Coral House in Sarasota is doing something very special for all the bikers coming into town. Lucy explained, “There will be a ‘Welcome Thunder’ Event. The owner called me after seeing some articles in the newspaper about our issues with BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 15
having the festival downtown. He said, ‘I came here from Texas and I love this event. What can I do to help?’ We talked back and forth, throwing out ideas and he said, ‘I’m going to do a $10 dinner. All the proceeds will go to your charity. We will also have some live music and a bike wash as well. I just want to have the bikers come here and feel welcome. There’s a parking lot where parking the motorcycles will be quick and easy.’” The address for you to write down is: 8389 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. When you meet Don Schoenburg, please be sure to let him know you read about his generosity in Born To Ride magazine! “One huge event that keeps growing and growing every year is the Sporting Clay Tournament. This will be held at the Ancient Oak Gun Club (16800 SR 64 East, Lakewood Ranch) on Thursday. “This year in keeping the events in Lakewood Ranch, this will be held at the Ancient Oak Gun Club. Everyone that attends has a great time and looks forward to participating in it!” You’ve been doing this for 19 years, Lucy! What makes Thunder By The Bay different from other festivals in Florida? “Other than location issues that we dealt with, we are very thankful to say that this event is still free and open to the public. We want to keep this free. Our way to make money for the charity is that folks patronize the bars, attending the other TBTB events, and spend money with our vendors so they (the vendors) can come back year after year.” Need some extra pocket change? Finz Finds is doing another charity ride on Saturday morning (January 7). This ride is going to be totally different this year. The ride is actually going to start at the offices of the Suncoast Charities. Lucy added, “Z105, BTR 16 | BORNTORIDE.COM
one of our major media sponsors, will be broadcasting and playing classic rock outside our office. In addition, we’re having special needs clients from all five agencies Suncoast Charities supports at registration to greet all riders. Everyone looks forward to meeting the riders that are coming in. We want people to see where the money goes, see the clients that we are serving, and ask lots of questions about each agency.” Registration is from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. and the cost is $20 per rider. When riders leave for the run on Saturday, there will be three stops: Rossiter’s HarleyDavidson, The Ranch Grill, and Manatee Harley-Davidson. Live music will be at all the stops, and both dealerships will be giving a free gift to each registered rider (while supplies last) AND 20% off one item at their stores! There will be free hot dogs, and free craft beers at the dealerships, too! Riders will come back to the festival (last bike in at 3:00 p.m.) drawing the various winners’ name out of a $4,000 pot! Ten $100 winners, five $200 winners, two $500 winners, and one $1,000 winner. If you can’t go on the ride but want to donate, you can do this via the website! Another new item this year is VIP packages! “Many people were asking about VIP packages for all the great acts we have playing that weekend with special interest for Blue Öyster Cult. They didn’t want to miss anything and wanted to get some good seating. We talked about it and decided that this was another great way to support the charity by providing VIP packages. Anyone purchasing a VIP ticket on Saturday or Sunday is guaranteed a great seat in a private tent, complimentary food, and a designated cash bar. Only 100 tickets will
be sold each day. Once they are sold, they are sold. Our Sponsors will be in this area as well.” It’s important to mention the great sponsors of Thunder By The Bay: Sarasota Ford, Rossiter’s and Manatee River HarleyDavidson dealerships, The Premier Sports Campus at Lakewood Ranch, SchroederManatee Ranch/LWR Communities, Gold Coast Eagle Distributing and Budweiser, Wittmer and Linehan Law Firm, The Loaded Barrel, FCCI Insurance Group, and the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Always with Born To Ride magazine, Thunder By The Bay has been an event all the staff look forward to attending. This year is no different! Why Born To Ride, Lucy? “You are the best vehicle to get the word out about this event. Born To Ride is everywhere! If you don’t pick up the magazine, you can still see it on TV. The reach is also out of state. To us, it was the best thing. The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau provided us with a marketing grant. We could spend that grant money with any media outlet we wanted to. We chose Born To Ride because you guys bring people in from outside of the county to this event. In fact, every year, we do an Economic Impact Study. Last year, over 50% of the people that came, came outside of the county area. The economic impact was $8.8 million in revenue to the area and generated an estimated 8,400 room nights!” Thank you, Lucy, for taking the time in talking with me about Thunder By The Bay 2017 and all the great things that will be happening January 5 – 8! See you there! Susan Hurst
What: Thunder By The Bay, When: January 5 – 8, 2017, Where: Lakewood Ranch Sports Complex
Total Distance 33 mi Total Time 1hr 7 min
Support this Great Annual Ride. www.FinzFinds.com or ThunderByTheBay.org
From Suncoast Charities for Children (4630 17th Street) Head north on Gun Club Rd. (0.4 mi) Right 17th St. (0.7 mi) Right Honore Ave. (0.5 mi) At the traffic circle, continue straight stay on Honore Ave (0.4 mi) Left Fruitville Rd. (0.7 mi) Right Cattlemen Rd. (0.5 mi) 1st Stop - Rossiter’s H-D - 330 Cattlemen Rd, Sarasota Head north on Cattlemen Rd. (crossing Fruitville) (3.9 mi) At 1st traffic circle, stay straight on N Cattlemen Rd. (0.1 mi) At 2nd traffic circle, stay straight on N Cattlemen Rd. (0.1 mi) At 3rd traffic circle, stay straight on N Cattlemen Rd. (0.3 mi) Right University Pkwy (3.6) Left Lorraine Rd. (cross FL-70) (3.3 mi) First Left to The Ranch Grill 2nd Stop - The Ranch Grill - 14475 FL-70, Bradenton Head north (Left) on Lorraine Rd. (3.0 mi) Left FL-64 (5.5 mi) Right on 66th St. Ct. E. (0.1 mi) Left on 67th St. Cir. E. (0.2) 3rd Stop - Manatee River H-D - 624 67th St Cir E, Bradenton Head south on 67th St. Cir. E. (0.2 mi) Turn right to stay on 67th St. Cir. E. (0.5 mi) Turn Left onto 66th St. Ct. E. (0.1 mi) Turn left onto FL-64 E. (5.5 mi) Right Lorraine Rd. (2.8 mi) Left 59th Ave E. (0.6 mi) Left into event 4th Stop - Finz Finds tent (near bike show) After Parking, Pull Your Final Card, and turn All Winning Coupons in at the FINZ FINDS tent. BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 17
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Remember the fallen, honor those who serve, teach our children the cost of freedom
Dec. 17th, 2016, Wreaths Across America Wreath Escort, go to wreathsacrossamericabushnell.com
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Phil Peterson’s Key West Poker Run 6 Cards and 6 Stops, Winner Takes All
The Peterson Family, the Diabetes Research Institute and The Key West Sunrise Rotary, would like to thank everyone for participating in another successful and fun-filled Poker Run weekend. WOW, what a great “Poker Run Bike Week” and weekend this turned out to be! The weather did not look good according to the weather reports with an 80 to 90% chance of rain for Thursday and Friday but that is NOT how it turned out! The Harley® Gods shined on us once again with only an occasional shower or downpour depending on where you were and when, but with a smart phone and the radar app it
was very manageable. The Keys Bike Week with parties and entertainment scheduled for Monday to Thursday started off very slow again this year due to poor weather. On Friday morning, I headed down with Stu Jones from Paradise Riders to film the Run and ride down for another episode of “The Florida Motorcycle Riding Life Style” show to be aired on Fox Sun Sports Network this fall. The weather for Saturday and Sunday was Blue Skies and Beautiful for the Duval Street Bike Show with all the show bikes parked in front of Rick’s/Dirty Harry’s and Sloppy Joe’s dominated by all the Custom
Baggers from all the local builders. They really amped it up this year with their beautiful detailed creations of rolling art producing Booming Music and some great showmanship. Congratulations to Peter Gonzalez for taking the Best in Show and Cartel Baggers for winning Best Pro Shop (See ALL the winners on our website!) We signed up about the same amount of people to play poker as we did last year about 3,000 but we had a lot more people pay for parking on Duval Street. Thanks, you all who played and participated! Drew Peterson For more info: www.petersonsharley.com • For Lodging Call: 866-934-6835 www.fla-keys.com BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 29
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Let Born To Ride brand, market and p romote your next event. 888-795-5779, www.BornToRide.com
For more info: www.petersonsharley.com • For Lodging Call: 866-934-6835 www.fla-keys.com
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Scan and see the Born To Ride TV Episode from Key West Poker Run come alive!
Winners of the Phil Peterson Poker Run “Texas Hold-em”
1st prize winner of $10,000: Roy Bram from Miami FL - Winning the final Texas Hold-em w/2 Queens. 1st: Roger Tapanes, Miami, FL - 5 Queens = $1000 & Plaque 2nd: Robert Hart, Port St. Lucie, FL - 4 Aces = $500 & Plaque 3rd: Chuck Mantegazza, Hollywood, FL - 4 Kings = $300 & Plaque 4th: Sally Mishmash, Marathon, FL - 4 Jacks, King High = $200 & Plaque 5th: Roy Bram, Miami FL - 4 Jacks, 10 High = $100 & Plaque 6th: Girolamo Dicembrino, Pembroke Pines, FL - 4 Jacks, 5-4 High = Plaque 7th: Mike Sizer - 4 Jacks, 5-3 High = Plaque 8th: Bryant Wade - 4 lOs = Plaque 9th: Thomas Evans, Hollywood, FL - 4 9s = Plaque
lOth: Miguel Marino, Miramar, FL - 4 7s = Plaque Winner of the Diabetes Research Institute 50/50 Raffle: Chad Herzog won the CASH! The longest Traveled Winner is - with 1,806 miles: Robert Dixon, Omaha, Nebraska, who won a $300 Peterson’s Gift Certificate. Winner of the Oldest Poker Run t-shirt: K.C. Casper, Miami, FL - a 1985 t-shirt won him a $200 Peterson’s gift card Congratulations! A “Great Big Thank You” to everyone who participated, donated and paid for parking on Duval Street. Don’t Miss your chance to Win next year, Call 877-849-9688
For more info: www.petersonsharley.com • For Lodging Call: 866-934-6835 www.fla-keys.com
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“You can Judge a great man by the people who are there for his Family after he is gone“ Ron Galletti
HISTORY OF BARNEY’S • THANK YOU! • 12 OF12
THANK YOU FOR TAKING A TRIP with us down memory lane! It has been fun reminiscing and highlighting the special events that have occurred over the last 70 years. From Barney and Rosalee’s dream that began in Bloomington, Illinois with $500 and a garage, to a third-generation family business with three locations and approximately 100 employees, Barney’s Motorcycle and Marine has come a long way, and we look forward to continuing this growth! We are proud to enter our next seventy years in the Tampa Bay area as the leader in your powersports community. We would like to thank our customers, friends, and dedicated employees who have helped us get to where we are today. We look forward to making a lot more memories here, and serving our customers for many years to come! This is the final part of “The Barney’s Story” series. To read the earlier chapters, go to www.borntoride.com.
BARNEY’S OF ST. PETE 10411 Gandy Blvd., St. Petersburg, FL 33702 727.576.1148
BARNEY’S OF BRANDON 9820 E. Adamo Drive Tampa, FL 33619 813.628.9418
BARNEY’S OF BROOKSVILLE 14430 Cortez Blvd. Brooksville, FL 34613 352.796.6116
WWW.BARNEYS.NET A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THESE EMPLOYEES WITH OVER 10 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE ST. PETE: George Sines - 1965, 1990 KC Wood - 1985 Jose Pagan, Sr. - 1990 Walter Manson - 1993 April Wood - 1994 Kelly Struder - 1999 Heather Larson - 2004 Justin Greene - 2004 Gino Patrizzi - 2005 Jose Pagan, Jr. -2006 BRANDON: Brian Johnston - 1998 Brandi Skinner - 2001 Kenneth Gaudio - 2002 Todd Hempstead - 2004 Mitchell Bennett - 2006 BROOKSVILLE: Ray Hempstead - 1961 Carla Bland - 2006
Yamaha 2017
TOP FEATURES:
1. Classic Scrambler Styling The SCR950™ calls back to the past with its low-profile bench seat, retro-racing side number plates, fork boots and bold color accents. Modern engineering meets timeless scrambler style. 2. Modern Air-Cooled V-Twin The 58-cubic-inch (942cc) engine is an air-cooled SOHC 60° V-twin with four valves per cylinder, a pent-roof-shaped combustion chamber, and 9.0:1 compression ratio. The engine is ideal for exploring unpaved roads off the beaten track and powering out of tight corners. 3. Unique Upswept Exhaust System A 2-into-1 exhaust pipe layout on the right side of the engine contributes to the lively performance and styling of the machine, with an upswept muffler for improved ground clearance and a pleasing exhaust note.
A double-cradle frame features sporty geometry for nimble, responsive handling in any environment. The front and rear suspension systems are tuned to provide great comfort and handling while contributing to the machine’s stylish low profile.
4. Inviting, Flexible Ergonomics The SCR950 puts the rider in a position of control to handle whatever the road throws at them. A wide and tall crossbar-type handlebar creates light steering feel, while centrally-mounted footpegs and a long, flat seat allow the rider to move easily to adapt to different riding styles. 5. Handling-Focused Chassis ** Fuel economy estimates are based on US EPA exhaust emission certification data obtained by Yamaha. Your actual mileage will vary depending on road conditions, how you ride and maintain your vehicle.
Professional driver on closed course. Always protect the environment and wear your seat belt, helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Read the owners manual and
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Celebrating 70 Years in the Powersports Community
SCR 950
SPECIFICATIONS: Engine Type - 58-cubic-inch (942cc) air-cooled SOHC 4-stroke, V-twin; 4 valves, 85.0mm x 83.0mm Bore x Stroke - 9.0:1 Compression Ratio - Fuel injection Fuel Delivery Ignition - TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition Transmission - 5-speed; multiplate wet clutch Final Drive - Belt Suspension / Front - Telescopic fork, 4.7-in travel Suspension / Rear - Dual
product warning labels before operation. Model shown with optional accessories. Vehicle specifications subject to change.
Visit us at www.barneys.net
piggyback shocks, 2.8-in travel Brakes / Front - Wave-type disc, 298mm Brakes / Rear - Wave-type disc, 298mm Tires / Front - 100/90-19 Tires / Rear - 140/80R17 L x W x H - 88.6 in x 35.2 in x 45.9 in Seat Height - 32.7 in Wheelbase - 62.0 in Rake (Caster Angle) - 28.4° Trail - 5.1 in Ground Clearance - 5.5 in Fuel Capacity - 3.4 gal Fuel Economy** - 51 mpg Wet Weight*** - 547 lb Warranty Color - 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty) Charcoal Silver; Rapid Red *** Wet weight includes the vehicle with all standard equipment and all fluids, including oil, coolant (as applicable) and a full tank of fuel. It does not include the weight of options or accessories. Wet weight is world comparisons with other models.
Barney’s of St Pete 727-576-1148 Barney’s of Brandon 813-628-9518 Barney’s of Brooksville 352-796-6116
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Ultra Bright Led Lights
We our the #1 Leading Seller Of Premium Led Lights in the USA
I was a master electrician and an electrical contractor for 28 years. After I retired from that, we started out being a dealer for a few other LED light companies, which led to becoming a distributor for two different companies. A few years went by and we started seeing the problems with the way LED strips were built; we also noticed issues with the CPU controllers. So, we started developing our own system. We started from the ground up. First, we analyzed how to make the LED strips better. All other companies use epoxy – epoxy silicon. Some companies try to say their LED strips are silicone. The problem with the type of silicone that many manufacturers use is it turns yellow in a very short time, and then the LED lights are not the true color – and not as bright over time. So, we developed an LED strip that is made of pure silicone. Our LED strips will not turn yellow, staying crystal clear, which means they remain as bright as the first day you put them on. Next, we looked at the CPU controller and restructured it. Our CPU has three wires that come attached with four plugs on each wire. No one else does this. UItra Bright LEDs have 80% more functions than our closest competitor. With our new improved CPU controller, consumers have enough power to light up a lot of LED lights for cars, motorcycles, trikes, trucks, and boats. Most CPU
controllers only produced 90-watts. We made ours 150-watts, and it is even smaller than our competitors. We wanted our LED lights to outpower any system out today. So, if you’re looking for the Best LED System on the market today we are it! We are always looking for more dealers to sell our product, and if you want to sell the best please call or email us. Just as we have been loyal to our customers through our warranty and customer service, our customers have continued to amaze us by being loyal to us. The biggest source of our growth has come from personal referrals from our customers. For that, we cannot extend our gratitude enough. We think the best way is to treat your friends as we have treated you. Please be safe and continue to send your great comments and pictures. We get great satisfaction from hearing from each of you. Thank you so much for your business. May life’s curves keep coming! As you can see for yourself ours does many different thing. More then any other LED System out there. We sell the Best LED Light System in the Market today. And are using the Brightest LED Lights in the Industry. “You get what you pay for as one always says!” Please call us at: 941-799-8046 • Bradenton, Florida • Email: ultrabrightledlights@gmail.com William Baker
6606 GaLl BlVd ZePhYrHiLlS, Fl 33542 (813)-782-4272
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Charlie Kelly always said, “Gotta Go To JT’s, it’s the real deal..”
jtsroadhouse.com
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See more Everywhere Eddy Pictures at Born To Ride.com event photos
LOOK AT BURGERS DIFFERENTLY AT HARLEY-DAVIDSON TAMPA BURGER CULTURE I & II
There are few things more satisfying for a “burger lover” than to have a burger cooked to perfection and made to order. If you’re a burger lover then you understand this sentiment completely, and if you don’t understand then maybe it’s time you tracked down the Burger Culture truck, I or II. Owner’s Ashley and Gabe have been driving the Burger Culture vehicle for three years now. According to them, “We decided we wanted to share our love for burgers with the world, so we started a food truck. Then after our first year we decide to add a second truck.” Any burger connoisseur knows the key
to a great burger is the freshness of the ingredients. “We pride ourselves on only carrying the freshest ingredients. We use the best beef and make all our patties by hand, we refuse to ever let our meat touch a freezer! Our Brioche buns are fresh baked for us out of Jacksonville. We like to combine different ingredients that you would not ordinarily put on a burger, and after one bite you will be looking at burgers differently.” But wait there’s more … sometimes you may prefer a sandwich less meaty than a burger but you still want a hearty sandwich. Burger Culture is known to prepare a mean sourdough grilled cheese sandwich. Unlike most grilled cheese sandwiches this grilled cheese is
Gourmet Burgers & Grilled Cheese by Burger Culture at Harley-Davidson of Tampa
a triple layer. Yep, a three- cheese surprise (American, Cheddar, and Havarti) to appease the hunger pangs inside your stomach and yet not leave you feeling bloated or sluggish. Oh yeah, if you want your grilled cheese a little heartier, add some bacon or prosciutto! Burger lovers! There is only one thing left to do and that’s head over to 6920 N. Dale Mabry highway and let Ashley and Gabe create a burger you won’t soon forget. The Burger Culture trucks I and II are on the road seven days a week, 11 a.m.to 4 p.m. So, the next time you have a craving for a differently type of burger, give Burger Culture a call 813-992-7444; we’re pretty sure you’ll be glad you did! BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 61
STEVEN TYLER READS BORN TO RIDE
The fire has been lit in Florida with a new action-thriller that is destined to be a hit amongst the biker family—Nation’s Fire has started to take shape. Ron Galletti, producer/publisher of Born To Ride TV & magazine will be on the creative side, taking his new film venture by storm, with his role as producer of the upcoming film that will star (also be produced by) the very beautiful and talented Krista Grotte who starred in The Emerging Past, Lazarus: Apocalypse, (both available on DVD and streaming services) and the upcoming Check Point film. If Ms. Grotte looks very familiar to the Born To Ride magazine she should … she was a former on air host for the Born To Ride weekly television show. The film will be written, directed, and also produced by the multi-award winning independent filmmaker, Thomas J. Churchill. Mr. Churchill has written and directed the last
three films that Krista has starred in. However, this is the first time Mr. Galletti and Mr. Churchill will join creative forces, but their backgrounds suggest an action-packed film with some serious twists. This new power trio has big plans with their first project together–Nation’s Fire. They have been scouting all over Florida, looking for special locations to film. When asked on his vision for this new exciting biker thriller, Mr. Churchill replied, “Easy Rider is the Holy Grail of biker films … I would love to make a film as great and beloved as that … we plan to come real close.” They have been tight-lipped on the story and who will be involved, but if Mr. Churchill’s most recent film Check Point is any indication, stand by for some action. The trio plan on shooting a slate of films in and around the Florida area with other joint projects to be named later. When asked
about Hollywood coming to Florida, Mr. Galletti replied, “We here at Born To Ride are very excited to have Hollywood come to Florida and maybe make Florida ‘the place’ to shoot films.” Born To Ride will be along to document the making of Nation’s Fire and will be first to bring you exclusive up to date information on the making of this exciting film. Kind of like the Nation’s Fire journal. Stay abreast and updated on casting, locations shooting, and on the new power trio of Galletti, Grotte and Churchill (GGC). Go and like the Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages for the film, as well as Nation’s Fire.com for further information on this action-thriller. To learn more about the members of this dream team please visit their individual websites at Kristagrotte.com, churchhillproductions.com and borntoride. com.
NEEDED: Extra Bikers. Tell us why you should be in NATION’S FIRE. info@borntoride.com
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Georgia’s Biggest Indoor Motorcycle Show
Georgia’s Biggest Indoor Motorcycle Show, www.NorthAtlantaTradeCenter.com. Info: 770-279-9899
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BTR 66 | BORNTORIDE.COM
The Great American Motorcycle Show Jan-28-29 • www.natcshows.com • 770-279-9899
Craven Moorehead CHRISTMAS
Well, I made it through Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and most of Cyber Monday. This was an easy task largely because I had no money to waste on things that I don’t really need. Although the desire is there to spend on the people I care about, it is an impossible feat without the necessary funds. Commercialism aside, there are a lot of valid reasons to enjoy this time of year. If you ignore all the ads, come-ons and deals you can’t live without and then simply focus on what you do have – and not what you want, a certain sort of peace will come over the chaos that roars on in your head and heart. It’s okay to want things, but if you cannot afford those things it’s better to just forget about it and move on. It seems to work well for me, but I’m not suggesting that you should think the way that I do. After all, it is a dark and disturbing place in what remains of my mind! Originally, we were all taught that Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Although the census among the scientific community suggests that the event didn’t really happen during the winter, if it happened at all. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and the ability to practice their own religion. Scientists do not profit at this time of year but the commercial entities certainly do. Some of us simply try to remember the story as told in the Bible and let that be profit enough. (It took me several minutes to decide not to use the word ‘prophet’ in that sentence, instead of profit – levity resides in the aforementioned ‘dark’ areas of my mind.) Although it’s difficult to be comedic at times, if you are me then it just sort of rolls out usually to the disdain of those listening. Thankfully for you, my dedicated readers, you don’t have to hear all the crap because you simply read whatever drivel I put in this column - or you just put it down and not read it – and then make colorful comments about my existence. It’s okay. I’m used to it. …
I think as we get older, some of the magic and mystery of Christmas sort of fades away. The beauty and meaning of the holiday; however, seems to be intensified the farther you progress in life. Once you get past 6 or 7 years old, you begin to not believe in Santa Claus and begin believing in Amazon.com. … I, however, still believe in Santa Claus because every time my dogs come back into the house from the yard they have sandy claws. Plus, I know for a fact that Santa frequents the Gentlemen’s Clubs. I have actually seen him there. Although he didn’t have on the red suit, I knew it was him because he kept bellowing out “Ho Ho Ho” and throwing cash around. The unmistakable long white beard and rosy-red face couldn’t have been attributed to the double vodkas he was drinking, could it? I used to think he only liked eggnog and cookies, and then I remembered that most of the eggnog that I have consumed contained a fairly good amount of alcohol. So, whether you believe in Santa or not, I suppose that it doesn’t really matter. I mean after all, everyone needs to have something to believe in, so I believe I will have another beer! This particular holiday has a lot of different meanings to a variety of people. I certainly do enjoy it, and of course it would be a lot more fun if I had some cash – but I never worry. I just wish everyone peace on Christmas and remember to do something nice for folks that need it. As bikers, we know how much love is spread around this time of year for those in need. Countless toyruns charitable poker runs and other events are occurring as we speak, and there are scant few days before the actual celebration of Christmas arrives. I appreciate all the efforts of those that give back to the community from behind this keyboard and it’s a blessing that this old-parts computer is still serving me well enough to allow me to send this important message to my readers. Anyhow, don’t think that I am nuts because I still believe in Christ and still give all I have. I also believe that Christmas itself brings people together and when people get together, great things happen! Just remember what the true meaning of this holiday is and do your best to enjoy it! Remember, just a few days after all the presents are unwrapped and the turkey is eaten, we once again gather together to celebrate the arrival of a new year. This is another great holiday because the new year often brings hope and prosperity to those that don’t wake up with a horrible hangover. When we make all those resolutions that we never keep, we can always remember the great times we had with family and friends during this wonderful season. And then, it’s back to work! May God bless you and all your people during this most joyous time of year! Hey! See ya’ll next year and until then speed safely!! CRAVEN
Let us know what you think of Craven Moorehead, info@borntoride.com
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www.B Events December 1 - December 4 Fort Lauderdale, FL (12/1 - 12/4) 18th Annual Bikers Bash at Seminole Hard Rock & Casino; 27th Annual SFPC Christmas Toys in the Sun Run. All proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs. 954-537-1010 Friday, December 2 Naples, FL (12/2 - 12/4) Blue Smoke
Thunderfest at Florida Sports Park. Friday night is a VIP dinner. Saturday & Sunday will be the Festival at Florida Sports Park. Your participation is anticipated and appreciated! 716-998-1829 Wimauma, FL (12/2 - 12/4) Redhawk Ranch Pow Wow Cultural Festival Honoring Our Veterans. Three days of Native American culture 9am - 7pm. Arts & crafts, food, dancing-singing, raffles, vendors. 813-634-5352 Saturday, December 3
Beverly Hills, FL 5th Annual Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Poker Run 9am - 4pm American Legion Post 10087. This event helps support the VFW Core Programs. 330-233-2133 Lakeland, FL When Pigs Fly South Challenge BBQ, Beer & Music 10am 5pm Sun’ n Fun Expo Campus. Show cars, motorcycles, warbird aircraft and flybys. Details at flysnf.org Leesburg, FL 13th Annual Lake County United Motorcyclists Assoc. Toy Run 9am Walmart, ends at Gator H-D. Come help local kids have a great Christmas. 352-787-8050 Plant City, FL Plant City Bike Fest 5pm - 9pm Union Station Depot. Live music, 8-class bike show, entertainment (Torch), vendors and more. 813-754-3707 Sunday, December 4 Hallandale Beach, FL Toys in the Sun Run 8am Mardi Gras Casino. Ride to Markham Park in Sunrise; $10 per person, plus an unwrapped toy (no stuffed animals, please). 954-357-8100 Ocala, FL HOG Toy Run 10am - 2pm War Horse H-D. Escorted ride leaves at 12pm for downtown square. Please donate $5 and an unwrapped gift. 352-732-2488 St. Petersburg, FL 29th Annual Jim Rosenkrans Toy Run 8am Bert’s
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There Thereare aresome somegreat greatevents eventscoming comingup, up,sosoget getout outthere thereand andmeet meetup upwith withold oldfriends! friends!
BornToRide.com/events s, Rides & Destinations Barracuda H-D. Join us for the largest police escorted Toy Run in West Central Florida. Proceeds to benefit the Pinellas County Schools. 727-527-9672 Thursday, December 8 New Port Richey, FL Venom Customer Appreciation Night 8pm 12am. 727-816-8700 Sarasota, FL Applebee’s Bike Night Thursday 2nd Thu. BTR magazine shoot, food and more. 941-355-1400 Friday, December 9 Ocala, FL Ugly Sweater Contest 6pm - 8pm War Horse H-D. 800-624-1910 ext. 4000 Saturday, December 10 Lakeland, FL Amici Bikefest 10am 2pm Lakeland H-D. Live music, food, fun, raffles, 50/50. To benefit Amici Charity “Reaching Needs Locally” 863-802-1971 Orlando, FL COBB’s 3rd Annual Teddy Bear Run 7:45am C.O.B.B. Society Chapter One. Ride to Florida Hospital for Children to deliver teddy bears for the children. Cost is $10, includes breakfast, teddy bears & lunch. Ocala, FL Photos with Santa 1pm 3pm War Horse H-D. 800-624-1910 ext. 4000
St. Petersburg, FL Vietnam Vets Legacy Vets MC 32nd Annual Toy Run 9am Derby Lane Dog Track. Ends at American Legion Post 138. Cost is $15 person, $20 couple; an unwrapped gift is appreciated. 813-285-8895
New Port Richey, FL Venom Metal Craps, black jack, poker, slots, Night 8pm - 12am (every 3rd Sat). dominoes and more. Food and drink 727-816-8700 specials, music, live DJ.
Sarasota, FL Rossiter’s H-D Christmas Party Open House 9am 4pm. Free food, live music (South Bad Influence), cash bar (10:30am - 3pm), Tampa, FL Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20% - 75% off all Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Rally. Join us for the licensed products. 941-951-6103 first annual motorcycle rally with the Buccaneers! Tickets start at $50 and Sunday, December 18 include: Game ticket for the Saints Dunedin, FL Suncoast Brotherhood vs. Bucs game Complimentary Bike 36th Annual Toy Run 9am Kmart. Join parking (valued at $25). Note: The our parade along Main Street Through game time has changed to 4:30pm Downtown Dunedin to celebrate our For more details, 813-870-2700 ext. gift-giving American Legion Post 275. 2507 Toy run to benefit Pinellas County Foster & Adoptive Parents Association. Saturday, December 17 Ride ends at Post 275. 727-453-8818 Bradenton, FL Manatee River H-D Christmas Party Open House 9am Ft. Myers, FL Southwest Veterans - 4pm. Free food, live music (Andy Annual Christmas Run 9am Sun Pursell Band), cash bar (10:30am Sports. Escorted ride ends at Jacobson - 3pm), 20% - 75% off all Harley- Veterans Home. abateflorida.com Davidson licensed products. 941-745-2429 Thursday, December 22 Port Richey, FL Venom2 Thursday Brooksville - Lakeland, FL Wreaths Bike Night 7pm - 10pm (every Thu). Across America. Two escorts, one 727-378-5850 mission: Ride to Bushnell to place wreaths on veterans’ graves, 8am Friday, December 23 (Brooksville) Walmart Palmetto, FL Peggy’s Corral Annual 6am (Lakeland) Saddle Creek Christmas Party 8pm - 2am. Live Wreath placements 10:40am music, games, prizes, Naughty Ceremony 11;40am Santa’s Helper contest (1st place is WreathsacrossAmericaBushnell.com cash). 941-729-5442
Cape Coral, FL Adopt a Family St. Petersburg, FL Biff’s Kids Christmas Ride 10am Jaycee Park. Motorcycle Raffle. Come take the Police escorted ride ends at Paradise chance to win 2017 H-D Heritage Tiki Hut. 239-339-7294 Softail. Tickets $5 each or $20 for five, available at Biff Burger or Homosassa, FL 16th Annual Toy wwwBiffBurgers.com Run 10am Bealls Parking lot (corner of Croft & Hwy 44). The ride will St. Petersburg, FL Toys for Pinellas be escorted by the Citrus County 19th Annual Benefit Bike Show 4pm - Sheriff’s Department and ends at 8pm Biff Burger. Live auction, event Crystal H-D. Ride to benefit Citrus T-shirts, 50/50 raffles, giveaways County Foster Parents Association. and more. 727-244-8519 Bring a toy to Crystal H-D anytime during the month of December. Sunday, December 11 800-624-1910 ext. 2000 Lakeland, FL Customer Appreciation Concert 12pm - 4pm Lakeland H-D New Port Richey, FL The Bearded (every Sun). 863-802-1971 Brothers Benefit and Tribute in Loving Memory of Rob “Triple Threat” Ocala, FL Classic Car & Bike show Cartwright 12pm - 8pm Sims Park. 1 War Horse H-D. Hosted by Ocala Some of the musicians include: JT Kid. 800-624-1910 Curtis & the Florida Scoundrels, Stormbringer, Jennifer Lee and Palmetto, FL Peggy’s Corral Sunday Neveah Peek, Soul Circus Cowboys, Fun Day (every Sun). 941-729-5442 Embry Brothers, Monkey Bone, Circle Sky, and more. 727-845-7663
Saturday, December 31 Palmetto, FL New Year’s Eve Party 9pm - 1am. Ring in the new year with Billy our Karaoke King. We will have favors and munchies. 941-7295442
Sunday, January 8 Homosassa, FL Heart Strings for Heroes Ride & Rockfest 9am High Octane Saloon. Great prizes, five live bands, food beverages and more. Supporting Purple Heart combat heroes. 352-794-6037 St. Petersburg, FL 13th Annual Locks of Love Poker Run 9am Biff Burger. After poker run return to Biff’s for live music, food and fun. Haircuts 3pm - 6pm. Stops: 1.Biff Burger 10am 12pm, 2.Peggy’s Corral 11am - 1pm, 3.Sunset Grille 12pn - 2pm, 4.Red Tiki Bar 1pm - 3pm, 5.Biff Burger 3pm - end. 727-527-5297 Friday, January 13 Riverview, FL Gibtown Bikefest (1/13 - 1/15). The Marshall Tucker Band, Greg Billings Band, The Bearded Brothers, and Randy McNeeley, Big Engine, and The Black Honkeys. Weekend camping is available. gibtownmotorcyclerally.com Saturday, January 14 Fort Myers, FL Downtown Fort Myers Bike Night 6pm - 10pm. Lots of vendors and live bands. riverdistrictevents.com Thursday, January 19 West Palm Beach, FL South Florida Fair Bike Nite Concert featuring Molly Hatchet 6pm South Florida fairgrounds.
Thursday, January 26 West Palm Beach, FL South Florida Thursday, January 5 Fair Bike Nite Concert featuring 38 Lakewood Ranch, FL (1/5 - 1/8) Special 6pm South Florida fairgrounds. Thunder by the Bay. Event highlights: Thursday - Sporting Clay Tournament, Saturday, January 28 Friday - Born to be Wild Kickoff Party, Dania Beach, FL Dania Beach Vintage Saturday - Cruise for Cash, Light up Motorcycle Show 10am Frost Park. the Night People’s Choice Bike Show, View over 380 vintage motorcycles Sunday - Rockin’ and Ridin’ at the along with vendors, dealer displays Ranch, 18-class Bike Show. For more and more. visit ThunderByTheBay.org Ellenton, FL Riders on the River Friday, January 6 Bikefest 11am - 5pm Woody’s River Sarasota, FL LAMA Casino Night Roo. 941-722-2391 Open House 7pm Fraternal Order of Police. Saturday, March 11 Fort Myers, FL Downtown Fort Myers Saturday, January 7 Bike Night 6pm - 10pm. Lots of Sarasota, FL “Casino Night Welcome vendors and live bands. Party” LAMA SRQ Anniversary Party riverdistrictevents.com 12pm - 5pm Fraternal Order of Police.
To Send submitinand yourview events even to more info@BornToRide.com, events visit BornToRide.com help us helpEvents you.
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Biker Movie Review
Nineteen sixty-nine was a pivotal time in American history. It was also a beginning of sorts for my love affair with motorcycles, begat in large part by a short-lived television series starting that year—Then Came Bronson. I was 12 yearsold and devoured every episode of the lonely stranger and his eye-emblazoned Sportster wandering across the country. This movie introduced Jim Bronson (Michael Parks) to the world. The film begins with Jim’s friend, Nick (Martin Sheen) in crisis and disillusioned with life — as so many young men are. Part of the “Stompers” motorcycle club, Nick had settled down with a wife and a “real” job—offering much promise for advancement according to his wife—but he knows better. Dead end, dull job, responsibilities, and no resources—is that what life is all about? The only thing he has worth anything is his Sportster, so under the Golden Gate Bridge he asks Jim to buy it from his wife and then promptly jumps to his death, Jim returns to the office of his once-valued profession, a reporter, only to realize he is facing much the same as his friend—a dull job and an industry hungry for unsavory stories, ones that “show
people at their worst.” Jim loads up the Sportster and hits the road. He doesn’t get far before he eyes a young girl (Temple Brooks, played by Bonnie Bedelia), running away from her pending life of responsibility, shedding her wedding dress and engagement ring on a northern California beach. She runs away sans clothes, but they meet again when she runs Bronson off the road. Jim catches up and lets her driver door have it with a kick of his boot. Off he goes, suitably avenged. At a gas stop, they meet again, where the convertible driver becomes a passenger on the Sportster, abandoning her car as the result of a curious policeman’s questions. From here on love fitfully blooms. On the road to New Orleans they slowly figure each other out. However, on arrival they realize they need to part, he to continue his quest for meaning and her to return to the very thing that had scared her onto the road with Jim. They part and Bronson rides into television history over the next 2 years and 26 episodes. What is interesting is the kind of biker Bronson is. He’s not a tear-it-up terrorizer of decent common folk, as so many movies make us out to be. Neither is he the trendy young motorcyclist so many Honda ads of the time purported us to be, riding our little, brightly colored scoots, wearing white slacks and boat shoes, and with a pert college girl on back. What Bronson was, and what I aspire to be as a biker and a person, is a self-reliant man in charge of his bike and his life, not the pawn of others. He’s quiet and a thinker, and not afraid to get his hands dirty for that next tank of gas and a bit of food, or wrenching his ride on the side of the highway. He’s not a pushover, but neither is he a troublemaker. He leads himself and is not led by others. He lives by his own rules, but they are not thoughtless or selfish rules and he listens more than he talks. What it all comes down to is his choice of going out and living his life, instead of accepting life as other people tell him it is or should be. Bronson is so soft-spoken I occasionally had to back up to catch quiet bits of dialogue set against the unmistakably late 60s music. Maybe someday that music will attain an aura of classicism, but to my ears it is awkward. The movie, however, makes up for that music by a couple instances of a nice rendition of “Wayfaring Stranger” sung by Michael Parks and Bonnie Bedelia. For an observant rider, little things like the magical appearance of knobbies on the Sportster (really a Jawa) for the hill-climbing scene may disturb the flow a bit, but the story is worth putting up with little inconsistencies. Many viewers will not even notice the poetic license taken here and there. If you recall the show from your youth and enjoy an occasional blast from the past, pick up this flick. Be warned—you may end up following your viewing with online searches for TV episodes and “Bronson Bikes.” You may even think about your life, your choices, and what you love about riding. This DVD is available from Warner Broadcasting and at Amazon.com
Do you have a favorite Biker Movie we don’t have? Let us know: info@borntoride.com
The Phantom
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Spyke & Mike Well there, my BTR friends. Mike is showing me it’s now flu season. Lately he’s been blowing green snot, coughing up a lung, and sounding like he’s a lifelong smoker with that crackly voice. Now when he yells for me, I can barely hear him and his face turns really red. I just stay far enough away so he doesn’t give me bird flu. I don’t do well with chirpees and one of us must make it to all the toy runs. He was feeling good enough around Turkey Day (bless their little hearts and wings) to keep the tradition going by helping me with Xmas jingles. As usual, I’ve done all the pecking around here for you, so ain’t no way I was going to let the snot master close to my keyboard. Let’s start out with a parody that he wrote from one of our experiences last season that happened at a neighbors’ nativity scene. Sing along with it to the tune of: Away in a Manger. As you lay in that manger, you crazy ol’e bird. You’ve confiscated the manger, and pooped on the outside a turd. You scattered the shepherds, and likewise, the sheep. Get out of that manger, those things don’t come cheap! Get away from that manger, you crazy ol’e hen. If you start chewing on something, you’ll wind up in a pen. Don’t you dare think about it, I’m warning you here. Or I won’t hang a stocking, for Spyke this year!
Your Caroling Card Has Expired She’s through your shirt To make it hurt ‘Cause Spyke just defended herself tonight! Here comes Spykes Claws Here comes Spykes Claws Right down the loosers brain She gets really mean And not leaving the scene It’s Spykes’ time to reign She’ll unleash Macaw claws And her big ass bite So forget the shield And welding gloves ‘Cause Spyke gonna win this fight!
For the last one, Mike and I put our birdbrains together and come up with something that was meaningful to us and you this year, my BTR fans. While enjoying a seasonal beverage, you can hum it to the tune of Here comes Santa Claus. Here comes Spykes Claws Here comes Spykes Claws Right down every thieves’ arms Rippin’ and scratchin’ Pokin’ and Gashin’ ‘Till the skin peels away Spyke is squawking Robbers are balking All are running in fright So forget Band-Aids And stay away ‘Cause Spyke is fighting back tonight! Here comes Spykes Claws Here comes Spykes Claws Right down every crooks chest She’s really mad, man Pretty annoyed, and Homeless people are not safe See those veins, they Squirt gush and spray Oh, what a bloodiful sight
Here comes Spykes Claws Here comes Spykes Claws Right down your artery Bitin’ and tearin’ Scratchin’ and sheerin’ ‘Till you run and flee Skin cells dying Homeless crying You have nothing on she So stay away And keep at bay Spyke will protect herself from thee! So, there you have it. Take these lyrics along with you when going Christmas caroling at school or around the neighborhood and you’ll be guaranteed to not have to participate next year! Mike and I say goodbye to a rough year for us, look forward to, and wish the very best for you and your significant others in 2017. We hope to see ya’ll out there, somewhere. Mike chimes in, “Let’s wrap it up and go for a ride. I just got the scoot back from SpinWurkz on 49th St. Thanks guys, you’re great! Ted, Jason, and Bo all did their part in healing up a few wounds I had in the Fat Bird. Now it’s time to blow out this cold by getting my knees in the breeze, your wings in the wind, and its wheels down the road.”
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SPYKE
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Christian Motorcyclists Association Renew Your Strength Riding weather is upon us, and this is a great time of year to rack up some miles in the wind! There is just nothing in the world quite like mounting up on your favorite bike, kicking it into gear and giving the throttle a healthy twist as your roar off down the road. I enjoy having a heavy bike; it gives me a comfortable riding experience, plenty of room for luggage when needed, and of course, my wife on the back. When the wheels begin to turn and the wind begins to blow through my hair, I sometimes feel a little invincible! I feel the power of the motor and claim it, in my mind, as “my” power. Those 103 cubic inches set me free from the issues of life, be they work, financial, or relationship oriented. I feel like a star track runner, able to almost fly as I go my way. Add a few twisty roads, some beautiful forestry on a cool sunny day, and you simply leave the cares and concerns of life behind – they seem insignificant in the bigger scope of things. One of my favorite Bible verses (Isaiah 40:31) reminds me that “Those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up BTR 80 | BORNTORIDE.COM
with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, walk and not faint.” When I think of that verse I can’t help but think about riding my bike, the joy and power it gives me, as well as the feeling of energy. God, in His infinite grace and mercy, gives us strength to do that which He has planned out for our lives. We may feel overwhelmed by the challenges before us, but even in the midst of that which is before us He is with us!! Just like we can mount up on our bikes and get in the wind, so can we mount up under God’s power and direction when He has called us to an exciting field of opportunity. When we are running the race through God’s strength, we are told that we can run and not be weary, God holds us up for the long haul. And haven’t you noticed that when you are out on a great ride you forget to feel tired? The aforementioned verse also leads me to remembering that all of that grace, all of that mercy, and all that power comes from the sacrifice Jesus make on the cross. If we trust in Him, give our lives to Him, and serve Him with all of our hearts, Jesus will provide all the strength we need. After all, didn’t Jesus show that no matter what man threw at Him, He was able to withstand? Jesus paid it all so that we could have it all, freedom and victory! Next time you are ready to mount up, remember Jesus, He made it all possible. He gave it all so we could have it all! In The Wind, Denny Dingler
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