Contents
September Issue 160
Ad Index
Features 2018 Harley-Davidson-115th Anniversary 5 Angel City-Where the Angels have Horns 19 The Great American Biker Bash 27 Test Ride-2018 Yamaha Star Venture 42 Rolling Thunder 55
Columns
27
Craven Moorehead Spyke & Mike Christian Motorcycle Association
69 63 70
Departments Ride Safe, Ride Smart Everywhere Eddy-Is Everywhere BTR Events Update Born To Ride Kids
7 49 66 70
Reports
55
Craig Can Fix It
65
On The Cover
Bert’s Barracuda, United Bert’s Stands 2018 Harley-Davidson Deluxe www.bertsbarracuda.com
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.
BTR 2 | BORNTORIDE.COM
AAA 6 Adventure Coast Expo 32 Affordable Motorsports 44 Al Estes Bail Bonds 48 Allstate - Jeff Ard 50 Angel City Fall Rally 21 Attorney Fran Haasch IFC, 7, BC Barney’s Motorcycle & Marine 40 Battle of the Bay 64 Biff Burger 3 Blue Knights Remebrance Ride 23 BTR Facebook 61 BTR Free on Three 62 BTR Radio 68 BTR Subscribe 48 BTR TV-This TV Tampa Bay 65 BTR TV-Great 38 66 BTR TV-ABC 20 71 Captain Itch 46 CJ Seats 63 Copperhead Lodge 62 Cycle-Rama 48 Find It Now 33 Fun Bike Center 38 Gibtown Bike Fest 51 Heat Up 31 H-D Black Widow 36 H-D Crystal 72, IBC H-D Florida 13 H-D Lakeland 8 H-D Seminole 14 H-D Barracuda 37 H-D Tampa 13 H-D Treasure Coast 4 H-D War Horse 73, IBC Indian Panama City Beach 17 JT’s Roadhouse 46 Las Vegas Bike Fest 22 Love Jugs 52 Nothing But Hawgs 24 Peggy’s Corral 26 Plant City Bike Fest 53 Rampless Motorcycle Trailer 44 Rivers Edge 16 Roscoe’s Chili Challenge 59 Saddle Creek 60 Salty Shamrock 10 Screwie Louie’s-Scooter Haven 45 Seabring October Fest 58 Sharks Bar & Grill 50 Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q 70 Special Forces Brotherhood 54 Stitch On Time 62 St. Pete Bike Fest 35 Tampa Triumph 39 The Ride Factory 47 Thunder Beach Rally 18 Tropic Trailer 60 Wings-n-Weenies 61 Yelvington USA 23
BREAKING NEWS EXCLUSIVE
Largest-Ever Product Development Project Launches Harley-Davidson into its 115th Anniversary Year
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
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Jesse Williams
OFFICE ADMINISTRATION
Nancy Ray nray@borntoride.com
MULTI-MEDIA SPECIALIST
Seth Wuertz
THE EVERYWHERE TEAM
Everywhere Eddy & Lynne Motejaitis Knight ROAD CREW
Vick Velosity, Kenny Bowers, Mr. Clean, Charlie Kelley, Craven Moorehead, Bam Bam, Victor Lima, Birdman Mike
To celebrate Harley-Davidson’s 115th Anniversary year, the Motor Company is launching a custom revolution: Eight all-new Softail® models that merge the hard-riding performance of the Dyna® line with the unparalleled custom look of the Softail line. Designed under the largest product development project in company history, the new bikes compared to prior year models feature a stiffer and significantly lighter frame built to harness the pulsequickening torque of the new dual-counterbalanced Milwaukee-Eight® 107 and 114 engines. With highperformance dual-bending valve front suspension and an easily adjustable hidden rear mono-shock, the aggressively styled 2018 Softail models are faster, lighter and better handling than any of their Big Twin cruiser predecessors. “The new Softail models are the result of the most extensive research and development program in the company’s history,” said Paul James, manager of product portfolio, Harley-Davidson. “Thousands of hours of research and testing were put into the
complete ground-up design of these new cruisers. We focused on taking the total rider experience to a higher level, where authenticity, heritage and soul meet the modern edge of technology for a ride that must be felt to believe.” NEW CHASSIS The handling of a Softail motorcycle enters a new era with a lighter, more rigid frame that elevates form and function to a higher plane, while maintaining the classic look of a hard tail and delivers a thoroughly modern ride. Benefits of the new chassis include increased lean angles, sharper turn-in response, quicker acceleration, nimble flickability, lighter weight, and easier side-stand liftoff than predecessor Softail and Dyna models. The steel foundation of the next generation of custom Harley-Davidson motorcycles has been forged. FRAME / SWINGARM A new high stiffness carbon steel tubular frame forms the core of the 2018 Softail chassis. Story Continued on Page 9
SCENIC RIDE CONSULTANT
Steve Finzelber-Finz Finds CONTRIBUTORS
Neale Bayly, Paul Garson, Craven Moorehead, Jim Miller, Spyke & Mike, Susan Hurst, Eric Albright, Rob Brooks, Eric Vician PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jesse Williams, Neale Bayly, Michael Whitney, Ron & Selena Hawks, Chris Miller, Scott Odel, Mike McBee, Eric Albright, Vick Velosity, Rob Brooks, Tom Seiter, Billy Wright Advertise in FLorida or South East BTR Magazine Call the Sales Office
(888) 795-5779 BORN TO RIDE, INC. P.O. Box 3021 Brandon, FL 33509 info@borntoride.com BORNTORIDE.COM || BTR BTR 55 BORNTORIDE.COM
RIDING POSTURE
Maintaining good posture in the saddle is an important component of good riding. Not only will paying attention to your posture help you stay comfortable over long distances, it will also enhance your control of the motorcycle by helping your body stay relaxed. Sit on the motorcycle in an upright position with your back straight, your head up, and your eyes focused on the roadway ahead. Ride with your knees and elbows turned
inward. They should be comfortably bent In a standard turn, lean with the (not locked) so you can quickly move or motorcycle for smoothness and stability. respond to changes in riding conditions. (Bottom right) In a slow, tight turn, such Keep both feet on the footrests at all as turning around in a parking lot, it helps times so you can quickly position them to to counterweight by leaning in the opposite operate the rear brake pedal or shift lever. direction of the motorcycle and direction of the Grip both handgrips firmly with your wrists turn. Put pressure on the outside footrest. turned downward and knuckles pointed up. Make a conscious effort to keep your body limber and relaxed. Tensed muscles will cause you to fatigue quickly, and will lessen your ability to respond promptly to any obstacles that might appear in your path. A relaxed rider is a ready rider. The better your skills are, the more relaxed you’ll be. (Top) A wrist-down position on the throttle hand is recommended. It will help avoid overrevving the engine and will make it easier to reach for the front brake lever when it comes time to slow down. For more information go to www.msf-usa.org
Share your Travel Story with Born To Ride, call us to talk about it before you go. 888-795-5779
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 7
RIDE AND HANDLING AGILITY The all-new Softail models are up to 35 pounds* lighter than 2017 models, delivering an improved power-to-weight ratio that provides quicker acceleration, better braking and enhanced dynamic cornering capability combined with increased lean angles. Some models feature new tires specifically designed to work with the new Softail chassis and feature optimized constructions and improved compounds for a confident, long-wearing ride in all riding conditions. New seat designs and materials provide an improved fit for a wider range of riders and greater comfort for cruising. Bar none, the 2018 Softail models are the best handling cruisers Harley-Davidson has ever produced. NEW POWERTRAIN All 2018 Softail models get a new heartbeat from the most powerful engines ever offered in Harley-Davidson® Big Twin cruisers, the new Milwaukee-Eight® 107 and 114 V-Twins.
The completely redesigned frame and swingarm significantly increase the rigidity of the new chassis. The frame itself is 65 percent stiffer than the 2017 Softail frame, which leads to a 34 percent increase in overall chassis stiffness. The frame design achieves reduced complexity with a 50 percent reduction in component parts and a 22 percent reduction in welds. There are two unique swingarms, one for narrow and one for wide rear tires. The wide chassis is 15 percent lighter (13 pounds) and the narrow chassis is 20 percent (18 pounds) lighter than the 2017 Softail frame. The swingarm transfers rear wheel movement to the under-seat mono-shock while maintaining the pure, classic lines of a hard tail frame. HIGH-PERFORMANCE SUSPENSION All-new front and rear suspension components are calibrated to match the dynamics of the new chassis, wheels and tires to enhance the comfort, control and performance of the 2018 Softail® motorcycles. The new high-performance dual-bending valve front suspension, which was first introduced on 2017 Touring models, delivers damping performance that is similar to a cartridge fork but with improved, more responsive damping characteristics. The suspension is optimized for both comfortable cruising and spirited riding with 130 mm of bump-devouring travel. Retuned and optimized rake and trail also enhance the motorcycles’ handling performance. The new mono-shock rear suspension preserves the classic hard tail look while revamped geometry improves ride quality, traction and control. The new easily adjustable mono-shock enables a 240-pound range of payload capacity for increased passenger comfort and enhanced dynamic handling compared to 2017 Softail models.
ICONIC LOOK • Milwaukee-Eight engines retain the iconic 45-degree V-Twin cylinder angle with a broad-shouldered top end accentuated by a single camshaft design that tapers to a slim bottom end for a muscular contour. The new Softail frame’s rigid engine mounting is engineered to tightly package the engine and reinforce the chassis stiffness. SMOOTHER RUNNING & PURER SOUND – Milwaukee-Eight engines for Softail models feature a refined dual internally counter-balanced system that reduces engine vibration while maintaining the familiar Harley-Davidson feel. – Harley-Davidson’s trademark “potato-potato-potato” sound comes through strong with less intake and mechanical noise. TWO ENGINE DISPLACEMENT OPTIONS Milwaukee-Eight 107 Engine (107 CID; 1746cc) Standard on all models • 100 mm bore and 4.375-inch stroke with 10.0:1 compression ratio • 0-60 mph – 10 percent quicker acceleration than the High Output Twin Cam 103 • 60-80 mph/5th gear – 16 percent faster acceleration than the High Output Twin Cam 103 Milwaukee-Eight 114 Engine (114 CID; 1868cc) Optional • Available on four models: Fat Bob® 114, Fat Boy® 114, Breakout® 114, Heritage Classic 114 • 102 mm bore and 4.5-inch stroke with 10.5:1 compression ratio • Ventilator Intake with 114 graphics and badging • Standard ABS • 0-60 mph – Nine percent faster acceleration than the MilwaukeeEight 107 engine • 60-80 mph/5th gear -13 percent faster acceleration than the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine MODERN STYLING & DESIGN Interpreting Harley-Davidson’s history, authenticity and styling DNA through a modern lens, the eight new Softail models feature all-new
Born To Ride Magazine, Real Editorial Content, Real Value for you the Reader.
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 9
designs that strongly differentiate them from their predecessors and each other. From a new base of style, comfort and performance, the next generation of factory custom cruisers are ready for riders to take even higher with their own personalization. “The authenticity of Harley-Davidson design comes by sweating the details from start to finish, ‘hard to do and hard to copy.’ Harley-Davidson motorcycles are not a commodity; they are handed down from generation to generation,” said Brad Richards, vice president of styling and design, Harley-Davidson. “We look at every nut and bolt on the bike, all the finishes, and every small detail. The new Softail frame is like a piece of art, and the more you take off the bike, the more beautiful it becomes. Its design speaks to the teamwork that our styling and engineering processes demand.” EIGHT NEW SOFTAIL MODEL KEY FEATURES: FAT BOY® The legendary Fat Boy motorcycle that defined contemporary custom style for decades has outdone itself. Ripped and refined satin-chrome finishes deliver a bold, muscular styling statement showing off its powerful engine and new and improved ride and handling. • Aggressive, steamroller stance and front-end design – Modern-day interpretation of the classic headlight nacelle – 160 mm front tire, the widest-ever on a Harley-Davidson production model, wraps the solid Lakester front wheel • 31-pound weight reduction to previous model • Standard ABS • 240 mm rear tire with solid Lakester rear wheel • Optional: Milwaukee-Eight 114 Engine HERITAGE CLASSIC Design cues evoke the blacked-out styling of vintage ‘50s Harley-Davidson models updated with a modern edge. • New detachable windscreen • New rigid, lockable, sealed, waterresistant saddlebags • Taller suspension with increased BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 11
passenger and cargo payload capacity • 32-pound weight reduction to previous model • Optional: Milwaukee-Eight 114 Engine • Standard cruise control and ABS LOW RIDER® Inspired by the individualism of the ‘70s custom chopper era that birthed the original, the new Low Rider model is lighter and faster with corner-carving handling unimaginable back in the day. • Throwback-style dual tank-mount speedo and tach gauges, headlight visor and fuel tank graphics • 19-inch front and 16-inch rear Radiate cast wheels • 2-into-2 Shotgun exhaust SOFTAIL SLIM® Stripped to its essential elements, the Softail Slim model pays homage to post-war custom bobbers with a narrow rear end, trimmed front fender, solo seat and minimal chrome. • Dark finishes adorn the laced wheels, Hollywood handlebar, and all-new front-end design • Low-slung tuck and roll seat • Bold and smooth new front nacelle and fork cover styling • 35-pound weight reduction to previous model DELUXE A classic hi-line showstopper that stands out on any boulevard, the Deluxe glistens with bright chrome while delivering the ride of a seriously modern machine. • Signature all-LED lighting from front to back: headlight, running lights, Tombstone taillight and blade-like turn signals • Signature pull-back handlebar • 33-pound weight reduction to previous model • Standard ABS
mm front and 180 mm rear • Dual disc front brakes • 3.6-gallon fuel tank • 33-pound weight reduction to previous model • Inverted 43 mm cartridge style front forks • Optional: Milwaukee-Eight 114 Engine STREET BOB® A bare-bones bike with go-anywhere DNA, the all-new Street Bob motorcycle has a fists-in-the-wind attitude with nothing extra to weigh it down. • Smooth-top 3.5-gallon fuel tank • Black spoke wheels with chopped fenders • Low-profile, riser-mounted digital instrument screen • 17-pound weight reduction to previous model • Lowest MSRP in Softail lineup NEW TECHNOLOGY FEATURED ON EVERY SOFTAIL MODEL • Unique Daymaker™ Signature LED Headlamps on all models • Improved electrical system charging, more than doubled at idle speeds • Easily adjustable rear shock pre-load settings (method varies by model) – Under seat spanner wrench: Softail Slim®, Street Bob®, Low Rider® – External hand adjustment knob: Fat Bob, Fat Boy, Breakout® – Under seat socket adjustment: Deluxe, Heritage Classic
BREAKOUT® With more lean angle and agility than ever imagined in a bike carrying so much dragster attitude and style, the all-new Breakout model takes long, lean muscle to a modern edge. • New smooth-top 3.5-gallon fuel tank • Long and wide with low-slung raked out 49 mm front forks • 18-inch rear (240 mm tire) and 21-inch front (130 mm tire) Gasser-style gloss-black powder coated cast aluminum wheels • Distinctive Daymaker™ Signature LED headlamp • Low-profile, riser-mounted digital instrument screen • 35-pound weight reduction to previous model • Standard ABS • Optional: Milwaukee-Eight 114 Engine FAT BOB® Asphalt-eating traction, pothole-devouring suspension, agile cornering, and a blacked-out take-no-prisoners look make the Fat Bob® model a groundbreaking motorcycle that could only come from Harley-Davidson. • 2-1-2 upswept performance exhaust with a custom finish • Largest aggressively treaded tires from the Motor Company:150 BTR 12 | BORNTORIDE.COM
Experience the ride and feeling that proves the new 2018 HarleyDavidson Softail motorcycles are Harley-Davidson’s most powerful, agile and responsive line of Big Twin Cruisers ever by taking your own test ride.
Born To Ride Magazine, Real Editorial Content, Real Value for you the Reader.
Angel City next Rally Oct 4-8, Vendors, Campers & all info: 229-591-5155
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 19
BTR 20 | BORNTORIDE.COM
Let Born To Ride Market, Promote & Advertise your next event. 888-795-5779
Angel City next Rally Oct 4-8, Vendors, Campers & all info: 229-591-5155
We All Celebrated America and Our Veterans at The Great American Biker Bash!
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 27
BTR 28 | BORNTORIDE.COM
Let Born To Ride Market, Promote & Advertise your next event. 888-795-5779
Raymond “BUTCH” Berry 1948-2017
“We All Miss You Brother”
Born To Ride Magazine, Real Editorial Content, Real Value for you the Reader.
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 29
BTR 30 | BORNTORIDE.COM
Thanks to Debbie, Her Staff and The Motorcycle Community who came out in 91• Weather to
the Born To Ride Great American Biker Bash, the faces you see in this layout are 100% Real!
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 31
TM
PRESENTED BY THE ALL NEW:
NOVEMBER 15-19, 2017
Free Nightly Beach Party & Concert “Baddest Bagger” Competition & Bike Show “Builders Row” Indoor Expo Bikini Contest
Thursday Nov. 16th
Vendor Exhibitor Showcase Hotel Packages With Exclusive VIP Access Daily Poker Run & Nightly Beach Bar Crawl Massive Motorcycle Auction (Buy or Sell)
Colt Ford
queensryche
Friday Nov. 17th
Saturday Nov. 18th
Raffling Off Brand New 2018 HD Street Glide ! ®
Visit www.StPeteBeachBikeFest.com to find out more! Proceeds from selected events benefitting
Official Headquarters:
Athletes for Hearts, Inc., is a not for profit 501 (c) (3) organization. EIN #26-0842097 DLN: 17053253314037
#StPeteBeachBikeFest
2018 Yamaha Power, Technology and Comfort Set New Standard for Luxury Touring Motorcycles Meet the all-new Star Venture touring motorcycle model combining a new level of power, technology and comfort features that will redefine the luxury touring motorcycle market. JOURNEY FURTHER Powered by an air-cooled 113 cubic inch (1854cc) V-twin fuel-injected engine, the Star Venture incorporates neverbefore-seen features on a touring model like forward-reverse ‘Sure Park’ parking assist, dual-zone audio capability, “Drive Mode” settings that adjust throttle response, traction control, adjustable rider backrest, heated grips as well as rider/passenger seats and backrests, a fully featured infotainment system and more. These features set the all-new Star Venture apart, while Yamaha’s renowned quality, performance and reliability plant it firmly on top of the luxury touring segment.
“The all-new Star Venture is one of the most highly anticipated and important new motorcycles to come from Yamaha in years, and everyone here is extremely excited to introduce this impactful new model to the world of touring enthusiasts,” said Mike Doughty, General Manager of Yamaha’s Motorcycle Group. “As the ‘Journey Further’ tagline indicates, the Star Venture will make you want to travel farther and experience more while enjoying the comfort, performance, and technology features you expect from Yamaha.” ENGINE The Star Venture boasts a massive and torque-rich 113 cubic inch (1854cc) air-cooled V-twin engine with a class-leading 126 pound-feet of torque providing smooth and responsive power delivery even when fully loaded.
Professional driver on closed course. Always protect the environment and wear your seat belt, helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Read the
BTR 42 | BORNTORIDE.COM
Celebrating 71 Years of Proudly Serving the Powersports Community. www.barneys.net
Star Venture INFOTAINMENT The all-new Star Venture infotainment system cockpit for maximum color LCD screen displays an array of information.
features a state-of-the-art mounted high in the visibility. A 7-inch full-
CHASSIS & SUSPENSION The Star Venture is built around an advanced hybrid chassis designed for light, agile handling with confidence-inspiring stability. The main steel frame provides optimal rigidity, while the rear aluminum die-cast subframe reduces weight and centralizes mass creating balanced straight-line stability with agile handling on curvy roads. ADDITIONAL FEATURES The Star Venture also includes a class-leading 6.6-gallon fuel tank and all-LED lighting. The side cases, top case and upper and lower faring storage compartments provide a combined total of 37.3 gallons of storage volume. The USB outlet-equipped fairing storage compartment, side cases and top case all feature electric locking lids straight from the factory. Yamaha’s Smart Key system with remote key fob allows for easy access to the luggage system and fuel tank cap, offers an “answer-back” function for locating the motorcycle in a crowded parking area and provides for simplified starting. For more information on the 2018 Yamaha Star Venture, contact Barney’s Motorcycle and Marine.
Barney’s of Brandon (813) 628-9418
Barney’s of Brooksville: (352) 796-6116
Barney’s of St. Pete (727) 576-1148
www.Barneys.net
owners manual and product warning labels before operation. Model shown with optional accessories. Vehicle specifications subject to change.
Barney’s Motorcycle and Marine knows what it takes to keep our customers satisfied. Since 1946
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 43
For 30 years, the thunder of motorcycles of all brands have rolled in and through Washington, DC to raise awareness in keeping POW/MIA issues current in the minds of not only those who participate, but especially those in our government. Since 1988, this 1st Amendment Demonstration has taken place in our Nation’s Capital, an inspiring tribute to one of the freedoms that we enjoy, thanks to a few … our Veterans. It may have gotten bigger throughout the years, but the message hasn’t changed. POW/MIA “Bring them all back home.” My pilgrimage to Rolling Thunder has been since my first trip in 1995, and I am usually asked “What was the thing you remember the most at Rolling Thunder?” Was it meeting Nancy Sinatra, Gary Sinese, Chris Noel, Connie Stevens or actor Robert Patrick, who this year rode his Harley from San Diego for the eighth time? May We Never Forget our POW’s & MIA’s and those who Served. God Bless America.
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 55
Besides riding through the Nation’s Capital, where my father was stationed four times in the service and visiting my Mom & Dad’s grave in Arlington National Cemetery, the following is what I remember the most: At the Tomb of the Unknowns, there is a plaque that tells the story of the unknown remains of those who are buried there from WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam. But wait! There is no longer anyone buried in the tomb of Vietnam that is “Known but to God.” A name inscribed on this plaque explains that United States Air Force A-37 pilot, Lt. Michael Blassie’s remains in the Vietnam Tomb of the Unknown was identified through modern DNA and other investigative techniques. Because of modern identification techniques, the tomb will remain empty because there is no longer a guarantee that any remains would stay unknown. Because of modern identification, bodies have also been recovered from many war eras and
BTR 56 | BORNTORIDE.COM
returned to their families or interred in Arlington National Cemetery. As part of the American Legion Honor Guard and Patriot Guard Riders, I have been on many honor guard missions regarding these returned remains. What was my greatest experience? A few years ago, I met Lt. Blassie’s sister, Patricia Blassie, an Air Force Colonel, who was a guest speaker at a ceremony in front of the Lincoln Memorial that Rolling Thunder Inc. does every year. Can you imagine, meeting the sister of the person who had been buried at the Tomb of the Unknowns! Coincidentally, a year earlier, I met Ted Sampley’s daughter at Panama City Florida’s “Thunder Beach” rally. She told me the story about her father insisting that the DOD had found evidence that Lt. Blassie was the one interred in the tomb. Ted, a former Green Beret, was an outspoken advocate for POW/ MIA and co-founder of Rolling Thunder.
Through painstakingly analysis of service records and maps, he concluded that the remains were those of Michael Blassie and passed it on to the family. As a result of this and other investigations disclosed to the family, Lt. Blassie’s mother, Jean and sister Pat Blassie, petitioned the DOD to disinter the remains and subject them to further testing. As a Vietnam Veteran and former member of the Air Force that had controlled A-37 aircraft, I found it fascinating to talk to an Air Force Colonel about her pilot brother and the circumstances of how his remains were identified and later transferred for burial to his home town of St. Louis in 1998. He was a Vietnam hero, classified as MIA, who was returned. The trials and tribulations the family went through in bucking the government in disclosing one of the sacred places in institutions in Arlington cannot be told in one article and should be “Googled.” This is what
Born To Ride Magazine, Real Editorial Content, Real Value for you the Reader. 888-795-5779
Rolling Thunder also means. Meeting other people who have served, exchanging stories, experiences and events with each other for a common cause. There are many ways to experience the ride at Rolling Thunder. When I first went in 1995, there were only a few thousand and it was easy to get into the main parking lot. As the event grew, I did an escorted ride from Dumfries Harley-Davidson and didn’t even get into the parking lot. A few times I rode in around 11 AM and was able to get to the Washington Monument and to Constitution Ave and when the ride came by, I jumped in. If you want the whole experience, get up at 6 AM and join the different escorted rides into the Pentagon and maybe you will be lucky to get into the Main parking lot, but if you get into the South parking you will miss the ceremony at the Lincoln Memorial. If you are fortunate to go to Rolling Thunder again, you can try different approaches and do like
we did this year: ride to the Pentagon in the morning, leave, look around, and then come back instead of spending seven hours or more in a hot parking lot. Some of the notables who were there this year was actor Tom Berringer, attending a Veterans film festival. Although Vice President Pence did not ride, Secretary of State Tillerson did take part in Rolling Thunder. Because we were one of the last ones to leave the Pentagon, I was not able to take part in the ceremony at the Lincoln Memorial this year where David Shulkin, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Vice Admiral James Lyons, Anoop Prakash, director of U.S. marketing & development for Harley-Davidson, and actor Robert Patrick were the guest speakers. Billy Ray Cyrus, Rockie Lynne & Gordon Painter were the entertainment. Nancy Sinatra, who is usually a regular each year, was unable to attend. A few weeks before Rolling Thunder,
When you see a Veteran, Thank Them for their Service to our Country. “Thank You.”
members of my American Legion Post 335 from Sylvester, GA and I, placed 150 flags along the route from Ft. Benning to Bluffton, GA to honor Lt. Weston Lee, an Army Ranger killed in Iraq. Lt. Lee’s body was transferred to Arlington and buried in Section 60, where those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan is the final resting place of the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. My parents are buried catty-corner from Section 60, which during Memorial and Veterans Day have families gathered on the lawn with blankets and chairs, spending time with their loved ones. After Sunday’s Rolling Thunder, we went to Arlington to visit my parents’ gravesite and also pay homage to Lt. Lee who had recently been buried there. This was probably the second most remembered experience at Rolling Thunder, being able to honor a fallen hero who grew up less than an hour from where I now live.
by Paul B. Murray
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 57
Spyke & Mike Fat Bird Two!!!
Hell yeah, my BTR friends. Through the power of people, Born To Ride, and just plain good luck (it’s about time) Mike has taken what little check freaky Flo & the gang at Progressive gave us and secured a newer scoot. Seems our dilemma reached an individual in Southwest Florida by the way of this magazine. Her name is Cathy and she needed to make a sleek and mean Fat Boy turn into cash. It had been sitting for a while, tucked away safely in some garage for family reasons. She was sad to see it go, but glad it would be in good hands and talons for the rest of its mechanical life. Her loss would be the start of another unique era for us and the beginning of the Fat Bird 2. I was shocked when Mike told me the story behind the scoot, but I was blown away when I first saw her. It ruffled my feathers then brought back memories of the Ole ‘96 and how I was introduced into the motorcycle riding world we are so accustomed to nowadays. To bring you newer readers up to speed, I have to go in reverse 22 years. Mike initially trained me on a mountain bike. Then we graduated to a four-wheeler which has more speed and movement. Something that took a while getting used to. Back then, all I had to ride on was Mikes’ shoulder. So the bumps, branches, and wind speed would sometimes freak me out. I even had to fly a few times ... and crash, Ouch!!! I never liked flying, the actual flapping of wings kind, so I became really good at holding on anyway I could. Plus, the breeze in my feathers felt great. Leaning into the wind helped me stay on his shoulder and made it plain sailing, except for my grip. I kept telling myself “I got this” and practiced until I was perfect. When Mike bought his first Fat Boy I was only two years old. Up until then, the fastest we ever rode was about 40 mph. I had never been in traffic, seen moving objects, or experienced passing an oncoming semi at highway speeds. Though I did like the smoothness
and stability of street riding. It just took many adventures, trusting Mike, and gripping the straps on his leather jacket for dear life before I became quasi-comfortable. After about a year of this, along with pulling off his glasses one too many times, he got smart. Mike installed a windscreen. Then, with the help of bubble wrap and leather, he ‘MacGyvered’ a way for me to ride behind it. Now it was almost effortless, like sitting on my perch and watching the world go by. Thanks Dad! So, until the total transformation is complete and the Fat Bird 2 is a new rendition of me, I’m back to riding on his shoulder, behind his back, or clinging onto whoever is riding bitch. And that officially makes me riding bitch bitch. Just getting out of four wheels and back on two wheels is a great feeling. Mike says, “Nothing beats knees in the breeze and bugs in the teeth!” For now, we only hit the local bike nights and short poker runs. One of our favorite bike nights is every Tuesday and Saturday at the Red Tiki. The new owners, Seth and Ani have turned a rundown dive bar into a great biker destination with one helluva story behind it, just ask Seth. This place has what we want: A huge parking lot and Tiki bar out back with Chrissy, Sarah, Jacqui, Loretta, and Kat making sure you’re taken care of. Everyone helps Jon and Danny cook up a wide selection of awesome $1.00 grub. It’s cheaper to eat here versus any fast food joint and the cuisine tastes much better. There’s always a great band playing inside from 6 to 10 with ice cold A/C blowing. And it happens rain or shine. Then there’s the latest talk of the town bike night. It’s every Thursday, 6 to 10, at a little known (up until recently) place called Sharks. It’s sandwiched in a shopping plaza on the east side of Belcher between East Bay and Ulmerton. That is where you’ll find Joe Sr. and Joe Jr. making it all happen. They are recent implants to the area but not new to the biker community. Like most of us, they migrated from northern lands. In particular Waterford, Michigan and they ran one bad ass joint called the Sharkclub for many years. Down here Amy, Jamie, Donna, and Ashley are ready, willing, and able to serve you quickly with a smile. Sharks has all the great bands, food/drink specials, and biker freebies, but what made them over the top up north was their ultimate giveaway, a V-Twin piece of chrome and steel. And there doing it again. This time it’s a 2001 Dyna that’s sitting right in the bar. All you’ve got to do is show up for bike night and sign an entry form! Then, on December 21, the scoot will find a new home with some lucky biker, but you must be present to win. Damn Mike, you mean there could be a Fat Bird 3? “Hold on a minute there Spyke,” Mike bellows, “Let’s concentrate on the Fat Bird 2 first. We’ll cross that bridge if and when they dangle the keys in front of us. Right now, you’ve got a deadline to meet, so make like loud pipes and get your squawking heard by finishing the article. It’s Thursday and we’ve got a bike night to attend. I’m ready to get your wings in the wind, my knees in the breeze, and the Fat Bird 2 wheels rolling down the road.” SPYKE
Why Born To Ride? Why Now? Hit your ideal audience with maximum impact. 888-795-5779
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 63
Fuel Tank Rusty? Craig Can Fix It!
On a motorcycle, your fuel tank is the heart and soul your machine What do you do when it’s rusty, when it leaks? Radiator shop over-the-counter stuff? You know it doesn’t work, with you try anyways and guess what? It doesn’t work. I offer an alternative service for the inside of your tank, I remove all rust clean them out and coat them with epoxy tank liner that’s clear and works, I guarantee it with gasoline and even methanol. I even repair failed Kreme and Redkote liners. I save vintage tanks that leak, rusty tanks that nobody would ever think of using again. I turn them around quickly within three days Many of the leading motorcycle dealers use me on a regular basis, (Tampabay Powersports, Tampa Triumph, and Eurocycles Tampa) when they’re tired of cleaning carburetors they call Craig. Prices are 129 any tank any condition, three day turn around.
www.CraigPaintsBikes.com • 813-407-2226
www.B Events Friday, September 1 Inglis, FL (9/1 - 9/4) Scooter Haven End of Summer Labor Day Weekend Party. 727-565-8743 Lakeland, FL Miss Fun Bike Center Spokesmodel Search. Submit Photo and Bio to missFunBikeCenter@ funBikeCenter.com. Visit our Facebook page for more info. Panama City Beach, FL (9/1 - 9/3) PCB H-D and Marine Max three-day Panama City Beach Outdoor Bike & Boat Show. 850-334-0055 Saturday, September 2 Port Charlotte, FL Bert’s Black Widow Harley-Davidson Labor Day Tent Event. 941-883-8000 St. Petersburg, FL Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Davidson Labor Day Tent Event & Red-White & Boom Audio Workshop. 727-527-9672 Monday, September 4 Gibsonton, FL River’s Edge Bar and Grill Presents Soul Circus Cowboys live 2pm-6pm. 813-671-9196 Palmetto, FL Peggy’s Corral Labor Day Music Event 12pm-4pm. Tiki Hut open at 10am with Bloody Mary specials. 941-729-5442 Saturday, September 9 Kissimmee, FL 13th Annual USO Benefit Ride 8:30am Orlando H-D South; escorted ride, food, vendors & exhibits, prizes. usoBenefitRide.com Plant City, FL Patriot Day Observance & Ride 9am Brandon H-D; 9am H-D Lakeland; 9am Bert’s Barracuda H-D; 9am Peggy’s Corral. Ends AMVETS Post 44 in Plant City. 813-675-5898 Port Charlotte, FL Bert’s Black Widow H-D Patriot Riders annual 9/11 Remembrance Event. 941-8838000 Sarasota, FL Rossiter’s H-D 27th Anniversary Party. Full bar, food, 66 | BORNTORIDE.COM BTR 76
There Thereare aresome somegreat greatevents eventscoming comingup, up,sosoget getout outthere thereand andmeet meetup upwith withold oldfriends! friends!
BornToRide.com/events s, Rides & Destinations live music. See the new 2018 models and party with us. 941951-6103 Seminole, FL Help Our Homeless Vets Poker Run 5pm Time Out Sports Bar. Last Bike in 10:30pm. 727-453-8818
Fort Myers, FL Nothing But Hawgs Biker’s Bash Bike Night for the Babies 2pm Lee Civic Center. Prizes, live music, vendors (food, drinks, clothing, and more). Cover $25, a portion proceeds to benefit March of Dimes. 239-689-3988
gear, fishing, boating, camping, and more. 352-585-9775 Hernando Beach, FL Spring Hill Kiwanis Club Poker Run 9:30am The Cove. The run is to benefit Project Pleasant Dreams and the children of Hernando County.
Awareness Poker Run H-D Tampa. Ride ends at JT’s Road House. Live music, hog roast, raffles. 813-962-4440
Wednesday October 4 Unadilla, GA Angel City Fall Motorcycle Rally (10/4 - 10/8). Bike games, bike show, bike ride, Panama City Beach, FL Indian Largo, FL Sharks Bike & Grill St. Petersburg, FL Biff Burger Motorcycle 3rd Anniversary Party. live music, contests, vendors Bike Night 6pm (every Thu). Live Live music, raffle, prizes, free Bike Night 6pm-10pm (every camping and more. 478-627-3168 music, food & drink specials, Sat). Live music, great food, taco, free adult beverages, bikini giveaways. 727-530-1011 vendors. 727-505-0865 bike wash & more. 850-819-3022 Thursday, October 5 Las Vegas, NV (10/5 - 10/ 8) Wednesday, September 27 Port Charlotte, FL Bert’s Black Inglis, FL (10/27 - 10/29) Stuart, FL Treasure Coast Downtown Las Vegas. Widow H-D Aargh-Merica Pirate Scooter Haven Halloween Bash. lasVegasBikefest.com Harley- Davidson Weekend Weekend. 941-883-8000 Party (every Sat - Sun). 772Live music, food, costume contest Friday, October 6 287-3871 Sebring, FL Sebring Octoberfest and more. 727-565-8743 St. Petersburg, FL Bert’s 10/6 - 10/8) Downtown Sebring. Barracuda H-D Aargh-Merica Sunday, September 10 Bikes, Beer and Bunker Gear, St. Petersburg, FL Biff Burger Pirate Weekend. 727-527-9672 Super Wednesday Bike Night 6pm food trucks, vendors, music and Palmetto, FL Peggy’s Corral Sunday Fun Day 12pm-4pm more. sebringPartnership@gmail. -10pm (last Wed). Live music, Tampa, FL Rockin n’ Rollin at (every Sun). Live music, $2 great food, vendors (Happy Hour com Tampa H-D (every third Sat). Bloody Mary’s. 941-729-5442 3pm - 7pm). 727-505-0865 Live music, food truck, free Tampa Bay, FL (10/6 - 10/8) drinks, free bikini bike wash, Monday, September 11 My Warrior’s Place Battle Thursday, September 28 Harley Girls, vendors & more. Palmetto, FL Peggy’s Corral Apollo Beach, FL Salty Shamrock of the Bay. Survival Race, 9-11 Ride (Limited to 40 riders). 888-328-0959 Bike Night 6pm-10pm. Live music, Fishing Tournament, Skydiving Prayer service & dinner back to food & drink specials, bike show, Competition, Ride for the Fallen Peggy’s by 9pm. 941-729-5442 Tampa, FL Operation Dignity Poker Run. Events occur at bike of the night, vendors and First 9am-4pm Veterans different locations, so visit more. 813-938-5282 Park. Vendors, raffles, music, St. Petersburg, FL Bert’s botBmwp.org for info. Barracuda Customer Appreciation BBQ & beer! Benefits Tampa Friday, September 29 Crossroads Athena House. Pig Roast. 727-527-9672 Port Charlotte, FL (9/29 - 10/1) Saturday, October 7 tampaCrossRoads.com. Hoschton, GA Tri-County Shrine Bert’s Black Widow H-D Fall Sarasota, FL Manasota 9-11 Club Poker Run & Open House. Open House. 941-883-8000 Sunday, September 17 Remembrance Ride 4pm The Ride through the North Georgia Palmetto, FL Peggy’s Corral Bearded Clam. Ride ends at Mountains for the kids. Door St. Petersburg, FL (9/29 Wildstock Tribute to Music Party 10/1) Bert’s Barracuda Customer prizes, raffles, food, and more Applebee’s 6pm. Live music, food specials, vendors & more. 12pm. Come out for a full day of Appreciation Pig Roast. For more (Rain date 10/27). 404-432music and fun. 941-729-5442 2550 info 727-527-9672 Wednesday, September 13 Thursday, September 21 St. Petersburg, FL Biff Burger Friday, October 13 Seminole, FL (9/29 - 9/30) Ormond Beach, FL (9/21 Bike Night 6pm-10pm (every Industrial and Motorcycle Blowout Brandon, FL Barney’s of Brandon - 9/23) 3rd Annual Bruce Wed). Live music, great food, Sale 8am-5pm Yelvington USA. Huge Truckload Event 9am-5pm. Rossmeyer’s Destination Daytona Motorcycles, trikes, motorcycle vendors. 727-505-0865 Free Demo rides, up to 90% off Motorcycle Challenge 8am-4pm. parts, tools & equipment, trike on accessories, free food and Event to benefit Florida Sheriffs kits, and more. 727-233-3610 Thursday, September 14 music (Rain or Shine). 813-628Youth Ranches. badgeBattle.org Ellenton, FL Annual Female 9418 Veterans Retreat (9/14 Saturday, September 30 Saturday, September 23 - 9/17) at Day Spring Gibsonton, FL Bras for a Cause Saturday, October 14 Brooksville, FL (9/23 - 9/24) Pink Poker Run 9am River’s Edge Plant City FL 15th Annual Episcopal Conference Center. Adventure Coast Sporting & femaleVeteransUnite.com Plant City Bike Fest 5pm-9pm Bar. Live music, prizes, raffles, Outdoor Expo Hernando County drink specials. 813-671-9196 Downtown. Music, bike show, Fairgrounds. Gun shows, hunting Saturday, September 16 food, drinks vendors and more. 813-754-3707 Tampa, FL Child Cancer
To Send submitinand yourview events even to more info@BornToRide.com, events visit BornToRide.com help us helpEvents you.
BORNTORIDE.COM || BTR BTR 67 77 BORNTORIDE.COM
Craven Moorehead September fun August Sun
So, I promised to not discuss the weather, politics or other things that I repeatedly write about out of boredom. But this is bigger! The near end of August brought us an event that is rare enough to incite mentioning in the mind of a journalist. It is extremely rare to see a total eclipse of the sun but for me it was absolutely a non-event. Although, I was out here waiting to see if it got dark or perhaps if anything had changed, I certainly was not impressed. It truly seemed that for us here in the southeast the event passed us by. I suppose that for the people who went out and bought the special ‘viewing’ glasses the results may have been different, but for me just hanging out here didn’t seem to be a different day in any way. I expected that perhaps the moon would obstruct the sun to an extent that I could see something other than just the regular daily oppressive heat that we here in central Florida expect. Any change would have been good I think, but to me the event was little more than another day in the heat. The media was all on board telling people that they shouldn’t look directly into the sun – especially during the eclipse without using government approved viewing glasses, and reminding everyone to put their pets inside the house during the event. I don’t know about you, but I never look directly into the sun ever, and I seriously doubt that my animals do either. We know when it’s dark, and we know when it’s light, so staring at the sun directly is never a consideration around this place. I would have believed that there would be something cool to come out of this, but I should have slept all day I think. … There are a ton of myths and legends surrounding a total solar eclipse and many cultures believe that there is something ominous, evil or wrong with the rare occurrence. Me, I don’t know. I think it’s just something that comes around (not so often) and likely will
happen again. I was accused of being old enough to see the one in 1918, but I am nowhere near that old contrary to popular belief. In some cultures, though it’s not a really good thing. Ancient cultures tried to understand why the sun temporarily vanished from the sky, so they came up with various reasons for what caused a solar eclipse. In many cultures, the legends surrounding solar eclipses involve mythical figures eating or stealing the Sun. Others interpreted the event as a sign of angry or quarreling gods. In Vietnam, people believed that a solar eclipse was caused by a giant frog devouring the Sun, while Norse cultures blamed wolves for eating the Sun. In ancient China, a celestial dragon was thought to lunch on the Sun, causing a solar eclipse. In fact, the Chinese word of an eclipse, chih or shih, means to eat. According to ancient Hindu mythology, the deity Rahu is beheaded by the gods for capturing and drinking Amrita, the gods’ nectar. Rahu’s head flies off into the sky and swallows the Sun causing an eclipse. Korean folklore offers another ancient explanation for solar eclipses. It suggests that solar eclipses happen because mythical dogs are trying to steal the Sun. Traditionally, people in many cultures get together to bang pots and pans and make loud noises during a solar eclipse. It is thought that making a noise scares the demon causing the eclipse away. Personally, I am having a problem believing any of these myths. And no, I didn’t buy the glasses and I didn’t go out into the yard and stare at the sun. I did, however, rig up a way to put my cell phone up under the eaves and snap a picture of the sun without any great results. I couldn’t see the moon’s obstruction whatsoever. I guess those who went out and bought those special glasses got a better view than I did, but yet I was not too impressed. Like NASCAR, it’s likely better to watch it on TV. After all the hullabaloo regarding this, the media had to slow down and report that many people have been calling their optometrists and ophthalmologists complaining of eye pain, seeing spots and a myriad of other complaints. What part of “don’t look directly into the sun” do these people not understand? I really don’t know what they are thinking. It’s not a good idea to stare into the burning orb that we depend on for light, but I suppose some folks just don’t get it. I can’t figure it out but that’s just me. Many people – still today – believe that there is something evil or ominous about this event. I don’t, and I hope I’m around in 2024 when it rolls around again. Science sucks but the scientists predict that it’s rolling around again and I am just looking to roll out and enjoy this month without a lot of drama and media BS that seems endlessly put me on edge. So, until next month, speed safely and don’t stare at the sun for any reason. …
Let us know what you think of Craven Moorehead, info@borntoride.com
CRAVEN
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 69
6606 GaLl BlVd ZePhYrHiLlS, Fl 33542 (813)-782-4272