AUG 2022 #219
read it/watch it/ride it
BORNTORIDE.COM
Contents
AUGUST ISSUE 219
FEATURES
Auto & Motorcycle Accidents-Are You Covered? Born To Ride Great American Biker Bash Choppertown Summer Daze Isle of Man 2022 Neal Bayly-Ukraine Mission
COLUMNS
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James Irwin-A Biker Helping Bikers Nefarious James CMA Spyke & Mike
DEPARTMENTS
Contents Page Letter From The Editor Dave Nichols Ride Sage Ride Smart - Think Motorcycle Born To Ride Kids
REPORTS
30
Meet Paul Teutul Sr. at the Born To Ride Great American Biker Bash at the OCC Roadhouse Sunday August 21st Info: occroadhouse.com Born To Ride: 888.795.5779
Start Born To Ride TV and Magazine in your city! Call 888-795-5779
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Dukes Promo Team Fidelis Automotive OCC Thursday Night Preacher Stone Live in Concert
ON THE COVER
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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.
Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates. Coverage subject to policy terms.
PTA MEET AND GREET
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BORN TO RIDE Magazine
PO BOX 3021 Brandon, FL 33509 PUBLISHER
Ron Galletti 813-785-3895 888-795-5779 rg@borntoride.com
CO PUBLISHER
Deb Galletti dgalletti@borntoride.com
EDITOR
Dave Nichols editor@borntoride.com
ART DIRECTOR
Letter from the Editor
DAVE NICHOLS
FROM THE HELM A TRUE COLLECTOR’S EDITION!
Peter Soutullo art@borntoride.com
PAUL TEUTUL SENIOR TEAMS UP WITH BORN TO RIDE!
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
HOWDY BROTHERS AND SISTERS! He’s a true icon in the custom motorcycle world. You’ve seen him on the Discovery Channel’s American Chopper TV series. Now come out and meet Paul Teutul Senior as Born To Ride hosts The Great American Biker Bash out at Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Davidson and the OCC Road House! It all happens Sunday, August 21st, come on out and shake hands with the man, the myth the LEGEND!
Erick Runyon
ART DEPARTMENT
Juan Guzman, Jared Hartman, Erick Runyon , Peter Soutullo, Craig Miller, Beatnik Steve Werner art@borntoride.com
WEB DESIGN/ELECTRONIC MEDIA Juan Guzman
OFFICE ADMINISTRATION Nancy Ray nray@borntoride.com
MULTI-MEDIA SPECIALIST Jared Hartman, Craig Miller Jasper Harris
SALES & MARKETING 888-795-5779
ROAD CREW
Vick Velosity, Mark Crowder, Doug Bright, Birdman Mike,
SCENIC RIDE CONSULTANT Steve Finzelber-Finz Finds
ON THE ROAD TEAM
The John & Heather Show
CONTRIBUTORS
JP Brady, Neale Bayly, Susan Hurst, Spyke & Mike, Eric Albright, Eric Vician, Myra McElhaney, Paul Murray, James Gladstone Greg Blackwell, Felicia Morgan, John Sullivan
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ron & Selena Hawks, Chris Miller, Scott Odel, Eric Albright, Chopper Dave, JP Brady, Erick Runyon, Craig Miller, Vic Lawall
LAW FIRM
FRAN HAASCH LAW GROUP www.LawFran.com 866 LAW Fran BORN TO RIDE OFFICE
888-795-5779 BTR 4 | BORNTORIDE.COM
This August thrill packed issue brings you incredible Biker stories and true Biker lifestyle diversity for you the reader like no other. Find out about Choppertown Summer Daze join us for a day you’ll never forget. It’s the ultimate biker country club! It’s all about cool custom choppers and hot Harley babes. There is a 10 class Born to Ride bike show that includes $1,000 in cash and prizes sponsored by James Irwin, the bikers’ friend. Check out his website at healthinsurance65.com The Great American Biker Bash will also bring you a killer live concert by the one, the only, Preacher Stone LIVE in concert! You’ve heard his music featured on Sons of Anarchy, now see him in the flesh for just $10 bucks! Don’t miss this amazing national top draw band. But wait, there’s more! This issue also takes you to the Isle of Man with an onlocation look at the 2022 running of this kickass TT race with our correspondents Scott and Carla Odell. This race in the streets was launched in 1907 and
is regarded as the most dangerous motosport race in the world! Born To Ride will also take you for an incredible charity ride in the Ukraine with righteous rider Neal Bayly. It’s a story you’ll never see anywhere else! Feel Neal’s passion, captured in his words and mind-blowing images. Ride to Ukraine with Born To Ride!
All this amazing moto magic as well as the usual hijinks from Spyke & Mike and another rowdy rant from Nefarious James. Born To Ride is sponsored by motorcycle attorney Fran Haasch. We remind you to THINK MOTORCYCLE! The road is a dangerous place my friends and Fran has you covered. Ride safe. Ride smart. And when you need help, call Fran at 866 LAW FRAN.
Don’t forget to join our Facebook Group and if you’ve got a biker friendly business, advertise in Born To Ride to reach riders all over the south east. We’re here for ya! Okay brothers and sisters, this cowboy is off to the Sturgis Rally to judge custom bike shows and give away an exact replica of the famous Captain America chopper out at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip.
Remember, if it is of interest to American bikers, you’ll find it right here in Born To Ride magazine and online at www.borntoride.com Let’s burn some rubber!
— Dave Nichols editor@borntoride.com
You are riding along in the left lane of a one-way street, with a car ahead of you on your right. As the two of you enter an intersection, the car swerves left across your path to make a turn. Strategy: Because traffic was light, the driver may have forgotten that he was traveling on a one-way street and never looked in his blind spot for you. Since there was no traffic in the oncoming lane, he felt free to make a normal left turn (without signaling), inadvertently trapping you in his path. There was no way, short of watching for the non-existent signal, to predict that this driver was going to turn left. But remembering that intersections are always situations of increased risk, you might have prepared for this by taking actions to separate yourself from the other vehicle. By riding so close (and inside the driver’s blind spot) you effectively hid yourself
from the driver’s vision and greatly increased your exposure to danger. For more information go to www.msf-usa.org
A Biker Helping
Bikers
YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY STRATEGY IS AS UNIQUE AS YOUR FINGERPRINT I ‘m gonna continue the story from last month’s issue about Chris, Tracy, JD and Ron. The stories you are gonna read today and in future issues are true, only the names were changed to protect the innocent just like that TV show Dragnet from the late 1960’s that we all watched. After JD and Ron rescued Chris and Tracy out in the desert when they ran out of gas on their Harley, they became very close friends. In fact, JD and Ron became regular invited guests around the dinner table at the home of Chris and Tracy. Tracy was one of those gifted individuals who could prepare mouth-watering meals. In fact, her cooking abilities were so superlative that her first husband would never let her work outside the house during their entire marriage. Her cooking was just that good! He loved it! The family loved it! And she enjoyed playing the role of a domestic engineer as many do. However, the marriage didn’t last.
Years later, when Tracy met Chris, the man of her dreams, she had created her own business and later was interested in retiring. Like everyone else, she wanted to start collecting Social Security. She was misinformed by the so-called authorities on the phone that she could not collect anything since she did not earn enough working credits to collect.
When Tracy mentioned this to me, I said, “That’s a bunch of hog wash!” I told her, “Tracy you are over 62 and have been married to Chris for over 12 months and he started collecting Social Security at his full retirement age. Therefore, you BTR 10 | BORNTORIDE.COM
can collect half of his benefit amount yourself and he can still collect the full benefit amount for himself.” This added an extra $21,600 annual income to their retirement. That additional income affords them motorcycle trips they never thought they could take. This free advice was priceless in their mind. Bikers helping bikers. That’s what it’s all about! Social Security decisions are a big deal and talking to a competent professional can make a huge difference. Did you know that according to a recent study, 96 percent of Americans claim Social Security at the wrong time leaving over $110,000 on the table?
Your social security strategy is as unique as your fingerprint.
Many factors need to be considered: Marital Status - single, married, divorced, widowed? Income Needs Full Retirement Age Impact on taxes - on IRAs, 401(k) s, TSPs, and other retirement accounts (if Social Security is improperly claimed). Trying to understand all the Social Security rules can be very confusing. Kinda like reading the IRS tax codes. This is why calling my office to schedule a 15-minute phone call on this or other insurance and financial subjects is so critical.
As you know, bikers are a very charitable people, giving back to the community in many meaningful ways. I’m of course a fellow biker as well, and that is why with the help of many generous people, we offer bi-monthly money school webinars absolutely free to Born to Ride readers. Just call us to register. And, no, these are not the typical boring classes you
can’t wait to be over or skip. These are 20-minute sessions that will give the information you need to know and have, but that you’ve probably never heard about. They are visual webinars on your computer, tablet, or you can just dial in and listen from a phone. A sampling of some of the topics to be discussed include: Social Security basics - how to maximize your benefits; Do’s and Don’ts for baby boomers deep dives into Medicare, Medicaid, VA benefits, and Retirement Insurance. Myself, and other financial experts, have watched too many people’s lives crash because they were not financially prepared. In upcoming issues of Born To Ride I will be sharing insights on these pages on how to never run out of financial fuel and create your own GPS for financial freedom. Go to my website now www.healthinsurance65.com or call 833-467-2865 and get your Mission One Million book now.
The book is for anyone wanting to get out of debt, build wealth, and create financial independence. The book retails for $24.95 but I bought your copy for you. That’s right, the book is FREE to Born To ride readers. Bikers helping bikers, that’s what it’s all about!
-James Irwin
Bi-monthly Money School 20 min. Webinars Free at Healthinsurance65.com
The Great American Biker Bash is coming to the OCC Road House and Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Davidson on Sunday, August 21st and we couldn’t think of a better venue to host a Summer version of Choppertown Live Summer Daze! We’ve had a lot of fun with Chopertown Live over the past couple of years in January at Thunder by the Bay, but have always felt that we needed something else to give us that ‘chopper fix’ at some other time of the year; a time that doesn’t compete with BIke Week or Biketoberfest. When we started talking to Bert’s and OCC about the Great American Biker Bash in August, the proverbial ‘light bulb’ went off and thought this venue, at this time of year, could be the perfect summer home to Choppertown Live Summer Daze! Just in the tradition of Choppertown Live in the past, we are going to load up the OCC Pavilion with some of the best chopper builders in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. To top this off, Orange County Choppers’ one and only, Paul Teutul Senior is on board and we’ve named him our official host of the days, or should we say ‘daze’, event!
So, who and what are some of the highlights of the Summer Daze edition of Choppertown live? First off, we have Jared Weems of Weems Motor Co. If you’re not familiar with what he’s all about, this YouTube influencer grew up in a family that ate, breathed, and slept all things Triumph. Naturally Triumphs are his life and he’s a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Triumph Motorcycles. Lucky for us, he just built a beautiful 1956 Triumph drag-inspired bike for Born Free 13 and is ready to show it off and talk shop. By the way, that build took top honors as ‘Best Competition Bike’ at Born Free.
The famous Kyle Ray Rice is set to show up with a build he’s been working on for well over a year. Kyle is known far and wide throughout the industry for his being one of those guys who does ‘everything’ from the ground up. His welding skills are the stuff legends are made of, but he also paints, gold leafs, and even stitches his own seats! He could be described as a Jack of all trades, and Master of Everything. He always brings it to these events, and everyone from builders to attendees are always floored by his work. BTR 16 | BORNTORIDE.COM
Next, we have another Born Free Show winner in Eric Allard of FNA Custom Cycles. He took home top honors at Born free with his legendary build, a 1965 psychedelic Ironhead called the ‘Glam Fairy.’ He just finished a couple of new builds, so we’re hoping those will be on the Choppertown Live menu as well.
Then there’s the world-famous Brian Buttera of Butteras Motor Werx. Based out of Lakeland, he’s built only two custom motorcycles and both have racked up awards in all the major motorcycle shows all the way up, winning it all at the World Championships in Dubai. Luckily for us, he’s working on his next masterpiece and we hope that he’ll be able to bring it our party as well.
“ ... pack your bags,
and bring your friends, this first ever version of Choppertown Live ‘Summer Daze’ is dialed in to be another great one! “
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We also have Richard Ruck from It’ll Ride Choppers, with the fabulous machines he builds. Yogi from Yogi’s Garage based out of Orlando will be there with a couple of his fantastic freaky fine builds and Hall of Fame Painter ‘Milk Bone’ will be there with his sweet chopper.
Not all our builders are from Florida though, we have Low Road Motor Co attending from North Georgia with his recent Classic Easyriders magazine featured Shovelhead, and our friend Jeff Hartley from Savannah will be there with his hellacious Honda Super Chopper. Last but not least, for a more international flare, we have Kasp Branski from Sweden bringing his beautifully handbuilt work of art that just looks amazing in an all raw, bare metal finish. The welds, fit and finish are just as smooth as butter, sure to impress the most seasoned fabricators. There aree many more talented builders headed to Choppertown Live and you’re not going to want to miss them and all the great machines they bring. As always, it’s a FREE event and open to anyone who loves those stretched out machines, and tall sissy bars. So, pack your bags, and bring your friends, this first-ever version of Choppertown Live Summer Daze at OCC Road House in Clearwater is dialed in to be another great one.
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THE AKA AKA THE THE PETER PETER HICKMAN HICKMAN SHOW SHOW
The last time this majestic race took place was in June of 2019. Covid -19 had closed the borders to the worlds countries and millions of people suffered and died. I feel selfish writing about the TT, but it was my light at the end of the tunnel, knowing someday I would be back on the rock called the Isle of Man with my best friends, to celebrate our survival and to witness one more time, The Greatest Show on Earth.
year but didn’t come home.
There is so much going on at the TT I just don’t know where to begin. It would be the 100th start for John Mcguiness who has been a fan favorite since I can remember. Michael Dunlop was in top shape and itching for a win. Dean Harrison, the 2019 Senior TT winner was looking strong, but it was Peter Hickman who would have everyones attention for the entire race week 37.5 Miles is just one lap of the Isle of Man and that is why I am calling it “ The Peter Hickman Show”. circuit. To navigate the turns, the dips in the road, the walls, curbs and buildings at Peter came on the TT scene in 2014 and speeds approaching 200 mph…just one got his first win in 2018…actually 2 wins lap, you have accomplished something that year. 2019 rolled around and he left that 99.99% of the world will never do. the Isle of Man with 3 wins. He had the Everyone that comes here knows the momentum going for him but the wind was dangers of this course and it has taken blown out of his sails as Covid-19 took many lives over its history. Prayers go out over in 2020. 3 years would go by before to the 5 souls who started the race this he stepped foot on the Isle of Man again, BTR 24 | BORNTORIDE.COM
but he was ready.
I had a chance of a life time during the week to take a lap of the course with Peter Hickman on a bus as he gave us a blow by blow of how you get around the circuit and win a race. My big question was “ How do you practice for this race?” “Good question”’ Peter said. “The first year I raced I came over to the Isle of Man a few times and hired a car. I drove the course at least 70 times trying to pick out markers for braking, looking for the apex in corners and anything that would help me come race week. I played a lot of the Play Station TT gams which actually really helped me with visualizing the circuit.” I believe it takes a few years to get it right, too many riders come over with high hopes and don’t prepare properly. Winning is not going to happen overnight”
2022
PHOTOS & WORDS BY SCOTT AND CARLA ODELL
“The banter went on until we finished a lap of the circuit, we were all spellbound of this experience. he had me when he said “Hi, Im Peter Hickman”.
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As we took off from the starting line down Glencrutchery Road towards Bray Hill, Peter exclaimed “ The first lap gets your attention, the bike is heavy from a full tank of fuel, you have fresh tires and you are wringing the bike out at 180 mph as you get to bottom of Bray Hill and you go airborne momentarily as you hit the crossroad. Keep the throttle pegged as it will keep the bike in the proper attitude. He has memorized every wall, building curb and tree on the course and this what gets the results he needs to win a race. “You have to know where you are on the circuit at all times”, Hickman said. The banter went on until we finished a lap of the circuit, we were all spellbound of this experience. he had me when he said “ Hi, Im Peter Hickman”.
Racing on the Isle of Man takes a lot of preparation, a lot of people , time away from home and..a lot of money. FHO Racing would be the team supporting Peter Hickman with Faye Ho team principal at the helm. Sponsorship money is what keeps the wheels turning and Richard Rawlings of Gas Monkey Garage stepped up in a big way as he always does. Probably the wildest graphics you will ever see on a machine on the TT course. Mr. Hickman was ready to take on the ISLE OF MAN TT ! The opening race of the week was the 6 lap Superbike race and guess who won that one? Dean Harrison would come in 2nd and Michael Dunlop in 3rd but the gauntlet has has been thrown down and the world was about to witness the Peter Hickman show.
With a day off , Mondays Supersport race would go to Michael
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Dunlop with Hickman finishing 3rd. The Superstock race was next up Michael Dunlop would leave the island with 2 more victories and give and Peter would be back in form with a win over Connor Cummins, him a total of 20 wins making him the 3rd rider to break into the 20 win category right behind his uncle Joey Dunlop and legend John a native of the Isle of Man. It would be the Supertwin race on Wednesday with another win and McGuiness. The sidecars had a very cruel week, not being able to finish a full race due to incidents and the loss of life in both races. almost by 2 minutes of his closest competitor. The Birchall brothers could not be caught and it will be bittersweet Friday would be set up for the 2nd Supersport race and the 6 Lap for them as well as all of the other sidecar racers. 3 years of waiting Milwaukee Senior TT race, the one everybody wants to win and get to come back to the Isle of Man with all the hopes in the world… into the history books. I keep coming back whenever possible, share memories with my Like the first Supersport race Michael Dunlop took home the victory, friends and talk about life and have a few pints together. The TT has but Peter stayed in touch with him and came in 2nd place, not what become a love/hate event because not everyone gets to come back he wanted. The weather came in and racing was halted. The senior as I do. race would take place on Saturday as the main event. Mark Purslow, Cesar Chanel, Davy Morgan, Roger Stockton, Bradley I could give you a lap by lap, but after 1 hour and 45 minutes it Stockton would be Peter Hickman and the FHO Gas Monkey Garage BMW 1000RR crossing the finish line first and receiving congratulations by Thank you for the time you were here entertaining us with with your racing bravery, you will always be honored and missed. his thousands of fans from around the world ! What a week it has been, 4 wins, a 2nd and a 3rd place finish for Hickman.
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IT STARTED WITH A PHONE CALL FROM AWARD-WINNING PHOTOGRAPHER KIRAN RIDLEY WHO WAS WORKING IN LVIV AT THE START OF THE WAR. COVERING THE REFUGEE CRISIS FROM THE SADDLE OF AN OLD, CHINESE MOTORCYCLE, HE JUST NEEDED TO TALK. IT WAS COLD, DANGEROUS, AND THE WHOLE CITY WAS ON A KNIFE-EDGE OF UNCERTAINTY AS THEY PREPARED FOR THE POSSIBILITY OF A RUSSIAN ATTACK.
Neale Bayly Rides
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UKRAINE Thousands of miles away in my soft, comfortable life, images of destroyed buildings, dead and injured civilians, and outnumbered soldiers fighting for their country filled Internet news feeds and TV screens. It didn’t seem possible that in plain view of the world, Russia was targeting women and children with their bombs and missiles, seemingly intent on destroying every facet of U krainian life with this unprovoked attack.
Next, Arai Helmets jumped in and Revit offered to provide us with adventure riding outfits before everything started to grind to a crawl. My paperwork went in for my international press credentials and the wait was on. Kiran, who is based in France, had to renew his motorcycle license in the UK, and my press jacket and armor plates were ordered with no delivery date due to excess demand. We held our collective breath, as each day seemed to bring some new challenge.
I called Kiran back a couple of days later and asked how I could help. How could I come to Ukraine to tell stories and raise money, when he asked if it was possible to find a couple of motorcycles? Well, thanks to more than 20 years of working with BMW Motorrad, it only took a phone call and we had two BMW F850GS Adventures with full luggage and navigation in Munich when we were ready.
I decided to get a shot in my dodgy knee before the trip, to find the Doctor and his PA both motorcyclists, and both military combat veterans who knew me from my motorcycle work. Two weeks later I became the first civilian to go through a week of Combat Life Saver training in Macon, Georgia with Charlie Company 148th Brigade Support Battalion. The idea being that if the shit hits the fan, I hopefully have the skills, and the
Donate to this cause: www.wellspring-outreach.org/product/donation/
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equipment thanks to Sergeant Garcia, to deal with the types of injuries we could be dealing with. It began to feel real. Once back home, the shit storm continued for me with a nasty respiratory infection, Kiran caught Covid back in Ukraine, and a host of other personal issues he had, traveling between Paris and England for work, threatened to overwhelm him. He recovered, I recovered, and he had to return to Ukraine suddenly on a new assignment. Our departure got pushed back again. It was a mad period of sketchy phone calls as he did the mad dash across Ukraine and Poland to get home to Paris, filing paperwork with the Ukrainian military to allow me access, and apologizing to BMW for delaying our pickup date. Kiran also still had to make a trip to England to pick up my vest and helmet, so our stress meter was still on high. Finally, I booked a one-way ticket, Kiran got his schedule cleared, and I caught Covid. It really did seem as if we were not destined to ride to Ukraine. A long, slow week of sickness passed, I changed my ticket, got my negative test, and finally landed in Paris. I will save the details of our trip through Germany, Czech Republic, Poland and into Ukraine for a later date, but thankfully BTR 32 | BORNTORIDE.COM
“
I find myself carving through a beautiful country landscape, marveling at the stunning architecture in the villages, the onion
“
domed churches and the quiet rural life we are passing through.
Donate to this cause: www.wellspring-outreach.org/product/donation/
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 33
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it was as smooth as any motorcycle journey could be, and we made it to Lviv in western Ukraine without any issues after some high stress at the border. We have currently been in Ukraine for five days and have been on a number of assignments, working with the most brilliant fixers. From 1,500 feet below the surface of the earth in an old 1970s Soviet-era coal mine, to spending the day with young amputees who just weeks ago where on the front line, it’s been intense. We have visited a famous Speedway stadium to spend time with some racers, via a 16th Century Monastery that is housing 50 refugees from Kharkiv, and been hammering away on social media soliciting donations that we will give to the project that most needs our support. Most days people are messaging to say stay safe, some are donating, and for the most part, here in the western part of Ukraine, we are okay. There are moments though, like when world-famous photographer Brent Stirton, ex-South African Special forces, messaged us from Sri Lanka to say “it’s no joke, I’ve lost two friends and two others have been wounded,” that the gnawing in my gut begina. It’s the same feeling that happens when the air raid sirens wail, or we approach a military checkpoint out in the country. It’s interesting, as there is another, stronger feeling that sweeps over me, when I’m at the rehab center seeing so many young men with missing limbs or spending time with refugees listening to their horrific stories, that threatens to overwhelm my emotions. Then we get busy, it passes, and I find myself riding a silky-smooth BMW motorcycle on a piece of twisting asphalt, carving through a beautiful country landscape, marveling at the stunning architecture in the villages, the onion domed churches and the quiet rural life we are passing through. It would be an idyllic country to make a motorcycle trip, an adventure ride or holiday. As peaceful and beautiful as it appears though reality comes rushing back in the knowledge that these beautiful people, this stunning architecture, and this peaceful lifestyle can be gone in an instant from Russian bombs or missiles and the gnawing in my gut returns. Tomorrow, we go east. The stories are going to get harder and the fight in my head will return, as the search for the words and images to communicate the need for us all to help, continues. -- Neale Bayly
Donate to this cause: www.wellspring-outreach.org/product/donation/
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LIVE MUSIC!
In case you haven’t seen the memo, ‘lifted trucks are the new black’. Long gone are the days that pick ups were only thought to be driven by farm hands, cowboys and construction workers. Lifted Trucks are as mainstream and American as ‘baseball, hotdogs, apple pie and chevrolet’ and we know just the man to help you get that ‘oh so perfect’ ride height for your cargo crawler. Meet Jeremy Breher of Fidelis Automotive. Jeremy Breher has the confidence and the skill set to get things done quickly, effectively and correctly when it comes to not only lifting trucks, but with almost all things automotive. This is a mindset he brought with him after he served from 2007 to 2011 w the U.S. Marine Corps. After serving his tour of duty in Afghanistan, he came to a crossroads in life - Should he stay in the Marine Corps, or as another option, go back to school, get his degree and reenlist as an officer? He came to the conclusion that he could accomplish more for himself, and his country, by going back to school. Being the go getter that Jeremy is, while attending school in 2012, he started Fidelity Automotive Services of Tampa. Through 2015 Jeremy ’burned the candle at both ends’ by attending school and running a business. His business became so successful that he decided to not reenlist and pursue a full time career in the automotive industry. In 2017, Jeremy started Fidelis Automotive in the heart of Brandon, Florida and he hasn’t looked back.
In the time span between 2017 and 2021 Jeremy and his capable crew at Fidelis Automotive have garnered quite a reputation for getting things done, quickly and correctly. They are able to tackle just about any issue from wheels to wiring on any make and model of vehicle, foriegn and domestic.
In the last couple years though, Fidelis Automotive has become the ‘go to place’ to get that pick up truck lifted to just about any height, in any manner that suits your particular taste. His specialized team has been in the ‘lifting’ game for many years. They are known to be the best in the business, and though it’s not about ‘speed’, they can typically get the job done in half the time of their competitors. Just as he once was as a Marine, Jeremy takes pride in himself, his team, his business and has the confidence in getting the mission done correctly for his client and customers.
VETERAN OWNED , TRUSTED QUALITY SERVICE FOR ALL YOUR CAR AND TRUCK NEEDS.
FIDELIS AUTOMOTIVE 3146 E. SR 60 Valrico FL 33594 | 813-730-3473
08_Aug2022_Born2Ride.indd 1
7/25/22 10:07 AM
IMPORTANT LESSON Damn, it was hot this past month. My respect goes out to those out there working every day in the heat. Y’all don’t get enough credit. One hundred-plus degrees out there at times. Brutal like Texas on rides to Sturgis. With that in mind, stay hydrated. Limit alcohol consumption as that can dehydrate you even faster. Electrolytes and water are the key to helping you keep alert in the heat. Being obvious, this is August. A shout out to Mari Eliseuson. It’s been two years this month you were killed in a motorcycle accident as a passenger to a drunk rider. My advice to you passengers out there is to know when to not get on the back of a bike with someone else if they are impaired. Your life may depend on that decision.
by an acquaintance who said, “Socrates, I must tell you something I heard about one of your students.” “Wait a moment,” Socrates replied. “Before you tell me, I’d like you to pass a little test. It’s called the Triple Filter Test.” “Triple filter?” his friend asked. “That’s right,” Socrates continued. “Before you talk to me about my student, let’s take a moment to filter what you’re going to say. The first filter is Truth. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?” ”There’s an important
lesson to be learned here. As gossip may be said in jest or for entertainment purposes, gossip is a poison pill.”
I’m hoping all of you stay safe out there while on your sleds. Unfortunately, I’ve noticed cage drivers have not become any more aware of you due to their own carelessness and disregard for others. This should sound an alarm in your head that you need to be more vigilant snd aware at all times. I’m getting really tired of seeing all the new crosses on the side of the road. At least do your part. Keep your head on a swivel while enjoying that ride. Always look ahead to those cross streets and traffic easements for the idiots pulling out. No more statistics needed out there.
“No,” the man said, “actually I just heard about it and…”
That’s my PSA for the month. Now some more crap to address. I read this lately. Not sure if it was a real quote or who the author was, but it struck a chord. It addresses rumors. Supposedly, the Greek philosopher, Socrates, was approached
“So,” Socrates continued, “you want to tell me something bad about him, even though you’re not certain it’s true?” The man shrugged, a little embarrassed. Socrates continued. “You may still pass the test
“All right,” said Socrates. “So, you don’t really know if it’s true or not. Now let’s try the second filter, the filter of Goodness. Is what you are about to tell me about my student something good?” “No, on the contrary… “
Tell Jim what you’re thinking, what do you want to say to him? editor@borntoride.com
though because there is a third filter, the filter of Usefulness. Is what you want to tell me about my student going to be useful to me?” “No, not really,” the man admitted. “Well,” concluded Socrates, “if what you want to tell me is neither True nor Good nor even Useful, why tell it to me at all?” The man who had tried to spread gossip to the great thinker was defeated and ashamed. There’s an important lesson to be learned here. As gossip may be said in jest or for entertainment purposes, gossip is a poison pill. It can ruin reputations, cause life changing events and be extremely hurtful to those it targets. It’s like the act of telling a person a sentence and pass it on, and down the line it goes. By the time it reaches the end of the line, it’s taken on a life of its own. If you’re going to pass on information, make sure it’s true and you can prove what you’re saying. If it’s not true and you can’t support it with facts, it’s just more BS that gets spread around. And if you help to spread around untruths, you are part of the problem and put your own credibility on the line. Then you’re no better than any other liar out there. Look at our current government for confirmation about story-telling. Question everything you read and every picture or video you see. Find the facts. They are out there. Ride safe. Stay healthy and enjoy your life. It will be what you make it. — Nefarious James American BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 45
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RONNIE and EMILY’S
CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL LVIV UKRAINE WITH NEALE BAYLY
CHRISTIAN MOTORCYCLISTS ASSOCIATION It is a good habit to occasionally review what has happened in our lives and take note of the changes we have experienced. In my life there have been a few adjustments made since I started riding again some fifteen years ago! The first thing I noticed was how I dressed. In the days of riding motocross my clothing was an item that didn’t get much thought. When getting dressed to ride I would put on anything in any color that wasn’t dirty, and no thought was given to making a statement or sending a message. Now, when I started getting dressed to ride on the highways and the byways, I was a little more into good coverage for protection in a mishap, or raingear for the frequent Florida rainstorms. The placement and message of the patches on my vest were chosen to give a message and to initiate conversations. There were modifications made to the bike which included chrome, pinstriping, performance parts and lots of lights. Basically, the bike was a canvas on which we could design our masterpiece, and then display them at rallies and other biker events. Half of the fun of customizing bikes is checking out what other bikers had done to their rides and getting some cool ideas!
Another area to review is how we physically ride the bikes. The first thought has to do with riding staggered or side by side. There are positives and negatives to making a choice, which is often a function of where and with whom one is riding. Safe riding is a matter of consistent practice and good training, along with using hand turn signals along with the bike mounted turn signals. As I mentioned before, I like lots of lights! And I must admit, it is a blast to crank up the speed from time to time and pour on some acceleration. One must simply use wisdom and experience to determine where and when it is practical to feel that power. All of this has to do with the image one wants to project. The total of many choices leads to changes that show others who and what you represent. There is a place in the Bible that speaks to the concept of change. In 2 Corinthians 3:18 it reads, “And we all . . .are being changed into His image.” In life we go through many changes over time, and making those selections determines if one is converted or not. We face choices when it comes to riding, and here we see that there is an alternative from the worldly walk, which leads us to a transformed image. By following Him, and trusting Him, we become more like Him. The cool part of all of this is that Jesus, through His sacrificial giving of His life, has already done the heavy lifting! One must simply trust Him, and believe in Him, He’s done the rest! In the Wind, Denny Dingler
Check out BornToRide.com for more articles from Christian Motorcyclists Association
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 51
HOT STUFF!
What’s up more than inflation my BTR friends? We’ll let me tell ya. It’s the temperature, the chance of thunderstorms and the humidity. Typical of August in the South but it’s been even more intense this year. Going from hotter than donut grease at a fat man convention to wetter than a mermaid’s tail to a dripping steam bath at any given time and in a matter of minutes. Right now, Mother Nature is really blasting the entire country with excessive heat and severe weather so, stay safe and cool like Mike and I do. Our dirty little secret is that we spend more time at the beach than on the scoot and if Mike’s not barefoot he’s overdressed. Mike breaks in, “Yeah Spyke, during the day it’s like riding into a hair dryer and in the evening it’s like riding into a waterfall. Sitting where the sand meets the surf, doing 12 oz. cold can curls and watching the waves move your feathered ass while hanging eight on a surfboard is my DayQuil. Sunset rides with you on the backrest to bike nights or anywhere we can see stars in the sky is my Nyquil. Some people tell us it doesn’t get much better than this! I tell them we’re just taking advantage of what mother nature throws our way.” I cackle, “Well Mike, there is one day this month we won’t be playing beach bums and giving into pier pressure. No shell-abrations, no sand between the toes, no getting some vitamin surf. Summer Daze happens on the 21st with Choppertown Live and the Great American Biker Bash at OCC Roadhouse. Scan throughout this month’s magazine for all the awesome details. BTR 52 | BORNTORIDE.COM
Just don’t miss the biggest event Born To Ride, Bert’s Barracuda H-D, and OCC Roadhouse have ever put on.” Mike interjects, “That place is one awesome venue. Something is happening every night of the week and on the weekends, there are usually all-day events with multiple bands. It attracts such a diverse group of motorcycle enthusiasts, gawkers, partiers and wannabes.” “A few weeks ago,” Mike continues, “I overheard a conversation between an older lady and a group of One Percenters. She must have been every bit of 70 years old, dressed in all black, knee high riding boots, hair pulled back in a ponytail and carrying a helmet. She wore leather pants that were so tight you could see her religion enough to make a preacher cuss! The little old lady confronts the biggest, burliest biker at the table, points to him and says, ‘I’d like to join your club, I want to be y’all’s PBOL (Proud Bandito Old Lady).’” Mike laughs and then continues. “The dude nudges his buddies and they are amused by this. He gets a nod from the president to play along by telling her, ‘Okay, but you’ve got to meet our patch holder requirements. Do you own a bike?’” “The little old lady points to a pink Harley near the table and says, ‘Yeah, that’s my scoot right there. I call her demon child and I ride it like I stole the damned thing everywhere.’” “The biker is surprised but says, ‘And do you smoke?’” “The little old lady says, ‘Yeah, I roll my own, smoke 20 cigarettes a day and when I’m shooting pool, I’ll smoke a few cigars too.’” “The group of One Perenters are now intrigued and the vice president asks, ‘Do you drink?’” “She snarls, ‘I can drink every one of you under the table. I down a 12-pack every day and chase it with tequila, no lime, no salt and that’s just for breakfast!’”
“Now totally impressed, the president asks her, ‘Well, have you ever been picked up by the Fuzz?’” “The little old lady thinks for a minute, scratches her head, shakes her finger at him and says, ‘No, but I’ve been swung around by the jewelry on my nipples a few times!’” I roll my eyes and cackle, “Let me guess what happened next, Mike. They all started laughing hysterically.” Mike babbles, “No, just the opposite, my poultry pal. The president and sergeant-atarms walked over to the old lady, picked her up and placed her horizontally above the gang. Then she crowd-surfed the club out to the parking lot. I never saw her again that night.”
I cluck, “That’s crazier than a cat in a catnip factory! Come on, Mike, don’t pee down my back and tell me it’s raining. I think you need to get us on the scoot and in between the raindrops for a little wind therapy to our happy place for some sandy karma.” Mike bellows, “Yes, Spyke, It’s time to get your wings in the wind, my knees under the triple trees, and the Fat Bird’s wheels rolling down the road. You need some suds from the surf and I need some suds from my buds.” — SPYKE
Do you have a riding pet story? Let us know, Spyke wants to feature them! editor@borntoride.com
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