Contents
April Issue 39
Ad Index
Features Eric Albright-John Ford & John Wayne Test Ride-2016 HD Street Glide FLHXS Hour Glass Cycles Bonneville Reborn Thunder in the Mountains
10 18 20 26
Columns Womens World Craven Moorehead Christian Motorcycle Association
10
36 43 44
Departments Ride Safe, Ride Smart Born To Ride Events BACA Born To Ride Kids
16 40 44
Reports LT. Cliff Rouse Memorial Ride Ride The Gauntlet Map Win the Sena-Ultra Slim 10R Headset RockCity’s Incredible Doc is the Man Nation’s Fire-The Fire has been lit The Original GPS Security System
26
8 29 31 32 35 39
On The Cover The Gauntlet-Copperhead Lodge Thunder in the Mountains April 21-24, 2016 GauntletGa.com • CopperheadLodge.com (706) 835-7433
AAA IFC All Balls Dirt Drag Team 37 Angel City 4,5 BornToRide.com IBC BTR Mobile App 6 BTR TV @ BornToRide.com 40 Copperhead Lodge 28 Cycle World of Athens 13 Direct TV 37 Find It Now GPS 39 Georgia Motor Trike 6 HD Falcons Fury 24 HD Killer Creek 17 Hour Glass Cycles 23 Indian Motorcycle Savannah 3 Insta Motorcycle Tow 33 LawBike.com 1 Leesburg Bike Fest 34 Love Jugs 33 Michelle Osborne 38 Mid State RV 30 ProRider 6,11 RockCity Cycles 32 Sales Reps Wanted 37 Seabring Bike Fest 38 Stefanie Drake Burford 16,BC Thunder Beach 9 Wanted GI Joe 37 Xtreme Rider 7
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BORN BORN TO RIDE TO RIDE Magazine Magazine
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BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 5
This Town is a true Gem, The Ride, The History, Xtreme Rider “I Love this place!” -Robert E. Andrews
A few days before Christmas, on December 23, 2010, Don Cheek, who was the Dougherty County, Georgia, Chief of Police, received the call that no chief wants to hear. One of his officers, Lt. Cliff Rouse, had been killed in a shootout, while responding to an armed robbery. “It was one of the worst news of my life,” said Chief Cheek. The following year, a group of supporters for the family initiated the first Lt. Cliff Rouse Memorial Ride in honor of Cliff. Lt. Rouse was known for his willingness to assist others, who numerous times gave his time and occasionally his day off to escort motorcycle events and charity rides. Four to five thousand riders from all over the State and surrounding States came to pay tribute to Cliff and his family. What started as a tribute to a fallen officer has continued and turned into an annual event each year. Initially, it was to raise BTR 8 | BORNTORIDE.COM
money for the Rouse family. Now the ride has extended to raising money for Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS), a National organization that responds to the needs of the families of fallen law enforcement officers. “COPS was the first group that responded to give the family both emotional and financial support,” said Don, now retired. Despite unfavorable weather many times, the Rouse Ride donations and auction has grown significantly and raised more money than any other local motorcycle event. In 2015, a new policy was initiated by the Committee members to release some of the money to assist the families of Georgia fallen officers. Money raised in 2015 was presented not only to the COPS foundation but to the families of seven fallen officers killed in the line of duty in Georgia. Members of the Georgia Blue Knights III, American Legion riders from Albany Post 30, and Sylvester Post 335
rode over 1,800 miles from the Albany area to Savannah and Atlanta numerous times to present the families monetary honorarium presentations. The Lt. Cliff Rouse Memorial Ride not only remembers the sacrifice of Cliff and his family, the COPs Foundation, but also the memory of all Georgia officers killed in the line of duty. Paul Murray
The Motorcycle Community and Born To Ride Supports Law Enforcement Officers Everyday.
As I rode the Road King up onto the trailer, I uttered words of apology to the old girl because she had only been treated this way when something was wrong and I had to get her to a mechanic. But I only had a short window for this road trip and there was much to see and do. My road trip partner doesn’t ride motorcycles, so this was the best and quickest way to get to northern Arizona and have plenty of time for fine art photography and camping. We chose to leave in the early Saturday morning hours of a rainy October night and planned to be at Monument Valley by sunrise on Monday morning. Neither my body, especially my ass, nor my mentality was willing to ride those 1,700 miles in that amount of time. So, I strapped that puppy in for a great road trip of camping in the BTR 10 | BORNTORIDE.COM
red deserts of Arizona and Utah; riding the long windy roads through some of the most beautiful country in the world, sleeping under the star filled desert skies and hopefully capturing that beautiful scenery in beautiful Nikon vision. This trip was about more than just good times though. This was the third installment of what has become known as Lakota’s Memorial Ride for Pets and Wildlife, a trip to help raise money for three different animal welfare facilities. Basically, I’m already going on a road trip and I use that trip to ask friends and businesses to donate any amount of money they feel comfortable with to help out some of my favorite animal causes. I setup a page on Facebook and only donators are allowed to follow virtually follow me as I
take them along on my photographic journey. For some reason people seem to like my photography. In three trips I have raised a little over $10,000 to share with the three animal rescue facilities, this year raising $4,600. The first 24 hours were kind of a blur of highway road signs, truck stops and fast food—and it rained for pretty much the whole trip out there. But as we finally made our pit stop in the Navajo Tribal Lands, the morning welcomed us as the skies parted for a short while and showed us a preview of the week ahead. As we entered Monument Valley the rain clouds opened up once again and we began to consider that we may have to forgo the tent until the rain left. But after a short time, the rain stopped just long enough to
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set up camp overlooking the three sentinels of Monument Valley. I have been camping for most of my life and I have never had a campsite with this kind of view right out of my tent “door.” It was spectacular! After camp was set up and it began to rain once again, we decided to go check out the road through the park and found out we also could do some mudding in the Trailblazer. I guess that is one advantage to trailering, I had both of my vehicles out there to take on any road that we wanted to travel down…no matter what the conditions were. Monument Valley was the main destination on this trip, and let me tell you it is one of the most beautiful places in this country. I grew up on John Ford and John Wayne movies, so this is the land I think of when I think of the western USA. All around red rock spires and buttes stretch to the skies and one can understand the reverence the Navajo hold for this land. The rainy weather had awakened the desert scrubs and they were showing off yellow flower buds against the red sands of the desert. At night the sky is filled with all the stars possibly seen by the naked eye with the light pollution so minimal this far from anything that could be considered metropolitan. One thing about being a landscape photographer is the need to always get up a few hours before sunrise to find the best place to shoot the beginning of a new day in the best light. Usually, I get up that early because I need to drive/ride to a spot away from camp and then set up for the morning photo session. But at this campsite, that wasn’t the case. Basically, I woke up and stepped right out of my tent into the best possible place to watch or shoot the valley sunrise. I set up my camp chair and tripod, poured a cup of caffeine and just waited … in awe of what I was seeing. The sun rose between the two iconic sentinels and brought life to the valley. I was right where I needed to be, spiritually as well as physically. Our plan for the rest of the day was to ride just across the border into southern Utah to visit a place called Mexican Hat. It’s located along historic Route 163 which also passes a place made famous in the classic Robert Zemeckis film Forrest Gump, but more on that later. Rob drove the Trailblazer while I led the way on the Road King. The speed limit on these roads is 70mph, so cruising along at 80 BTR 14 | BORNTORIDE.COM
through the desert is just spectacular, and it took us no time to reach the pull-off to go off road around Mexican Hat. The packed sand on the side road through the protected lands was no problem for the Road King, so I led the Trailblazer through the desert until we reached a pull-off with a trail that lead to the San Juan River at the base of the surrounding red rock mountains. We spent some time here and then rode around the valley a bit more, continuing to be awestruck by the land around us. On the ride back to Monument Valley, I reached at least one place where I opened up the Road King to get her into triple digit territory. I just had to do it … I couldn’t help myself. The next day’s plans were made months in advance. I mentioned before that I grew up watching John Ford and John Wayne movies. The way most of us picture the west is based on their films like The Searchers and the cavalry trilogy; Fort Apache, She Wore a Yellow Ribbon and Rio Grande. So, riding horses through Monument Valley was on my bucket list, and here I was with a beautiful sunny day and hours of day light to check it off the list. The previous day inside the park I noticed a native camp with a horse corral, so we drove in to check on rates and times. We signed up for a three-hour trip through the valley guided by a Navajo native who took us to places no vehicles can reach. We crossed sand dunes, desert streams, and found waterfalls set deep inside the valley. We ran the horses through flat scrub desert surrounded by red rock buttes, into the cool shadows of open air caves large enough to build a house in. We saw wild horses that still run through the valley and paused to watch … and for me I almost went back in time. So far, in just a couple of days, I had checked at least four things off my bucket list; shoot a sunrise, camp and ride horses all in Monument Valley, checked out the place along Route 163 made famous in Forrest Gump, and once again—more on that later. And with that, I’m going to save the rest of this adventure story for next month. We’ll visit Valley of the Gods, Vermillion Cliffs, and Grand Canyon and put our feet in the Colorado River where it begins its journey down the Grand Canyon. Photography by Rob Horne and Eric Albright
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THE SLEEPY COMMUTER
You’re riding your motorcycle to work just after sunrise, traveling down a typical suburban street lined with car-filled driveways. As you approach one of these driveways a car begins to move and backs out directly into your path. You brake hard and come to a stop just inches away from the car’s rear bumper. Strategy: Given the hour of day and the type of neighborhood, you could have expected to encounter at least a few drivers backing out of their driveways and heading off to work. Clues include drivers getting into their cars as you approach, or a tell-tale puff of exhaust warning you that the car has been started and is preparing to leave. Watch for brake lights and backup lights, too. If you observe any of the above warning signs, take the following precautions: Slow your pace and prepare to stop, if necessary. Keep your eyes up and cover the front brake lever and rear brake pedal. Stabilize your speed so that if the car does begin to move out into your path, you have sufficient space to stop. If there isn’t room or time to slow to a stop, scan for an escape route to swerve into. If there is no oncoming traffic, swerve to the left; if this route isn’t available, consider swerving to the right. For more information go to www.msf-usa.org
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Call Stefanie Drake Burford when you need her! 1-844-STEF-LAW • www.STEF-LAW.com
2016 H-D Street
The Street Glide® Special motorcycle elevates the experience of riding a hot rod bagger to a whole new level. The model comes standard with the BOOM!™ Box 6.5GT audio system and the Smart Security System. Customers who choose this bike are choosing the baddest dog on the block. NEW IN 2016 • Reduced-width primary housing and derby cove • Paint color options including Hard Candy Custom™ paint and Custom color DIMENSIONS Length 96.5 in. (2450 mm) Seat Height-27.4 in. (695 mm) Fuel Capacity-6 gal. (22.7 L) Dry Weight-775 lbs. (352 kg) POWERTRAIN Engine-Air-cooled, High Output Twin Cam 103™ with integrated oil cooler Displacement-103.1 cu. in. (1690 cc) Engine Torque-104.7 ft. lbs. @ 3250 RPM (142 Nm @ 3250 RPM) Transmission-6-Speed Cruise Drive®
• • • • • • • • • •
Enforcer Cast Aluminum wheels; 19-inch front Dual front floating open rotors Convenient, intuitive inner fairing layout Sleek saddlebags with chrome saddlebag support structure Sleek airbox with 103 insert Smoked, sport windshield Sliver-face gauges Black powder-coated engine with chrome covers Low-profile rear suspension Combination rear stop/turn/tail lights (U.S. configuration)
Fit • Saddlebag guard shaped for passenger comfort • One-piece, two-up Street Glide® seat • Full-length rider Streamliner footboards with heel/toe shift levers • Passenger Streamliner footpegs Function
WHEELS/TIRES Enforcer Cast Aluminum Front-D408F 130/60B19 61H Rear-D407T BW 180/65B16 81H MODEL UNIQUE FEATURES Style • Pinstriping • Color-matched fairing skirt • Gloss-black inner fairing (Denim finish on Black Denim model) • Stylized, matching air cleaner and tank panel inserts • Batwing fairing with Splitstream vent • 49 mm telescopic front forks • Streamlined, low-profile front fender
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Killer Creek Harley-Davidson® located in the city of Roswell, GA since 1999
Glide Special FLHXS
• Wind-tunnel tested Batwing fairing with Splitstream vent for reduced head buffeting • 49 mm telescopic front forks for stiffer front end •Dual Halogen headlight • Standard cruise control • Reflex™ Linked Brakes with ABS1
• Standard Smart Security System2 with proximity based, hands-free security fob • Brembo® 4-piston front and rear calipers • Easy-to-read gauges and large telltale indicators; display features odometer, trip A, trip B, range to empty, and gear indicator • Ergonomic hand controls with intuitive design and tactile feel. Includes trigger switch for odometer, trip A, trip B, range to empty; info button for ambient temperature and oil pressure (information displayed in radio screen); hazard warning switch; two Joysticks that control all audio functions • Boom!™ Box 6.5GT audio system with GPS and touchscreen • Jukebox media compartment with USB connection and One-Touch access door • Single AM/FM/WB antenna • One-Touch fuel door • Saddlebags with color-matched One-Touch design latch • Saddlebag locks common with ignition key • Electronic throttle control • Standard battery charging harness • CAN-based electrical system • Dunlop® 180 mm multi-tread rear tire • CVO™ model style, hand-adjustable, low-profile rear suspension • 6-gallon fuel tank for extended range PERFORMANCE • Rubber-mounted, air-cooled 1690 cc High Output Twin Cam 103™ engine with oil cooler • High-flow airbox • Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) with heated O2 sensors • 6-Speed Cruise Drive® transmission with Isolated Drive System (IDS) for smooth power delivery • Rider-initiated Engine Idle Temperature Management Strategy (EITMS) • Hydraulic clutch
11480 Alpharetta Highway Roswell, GA 30076 770-777-1000
See the #1 selling Harley-Davidson® dealer in Atlanta, Georgia & the entire southeast!
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Late in 2015, a new motorcycle dealership opened in Buford, Georgia, called Hourglass Cycles. While other motorcycle shops have been closing their doors (Riders Hill, NPR Ducati, Freedom Powersports) or were bought out (Lawrenceville Honda/Yamaha, by Mountain Motorsports), Hourglass opened their doors with an impressive array of brands, accessories, and services for the motorcycle enthusiast. The brainchild and baby of Kyle Campbell and his father, Hourglass is a dealership for riders, run by riders. They currently carry Triumph, BMW, MV Augusta, and more recently Motus, with others possibly down the road. Their showroom, accessories store, parts, and service departments are top rate. Many of Kyle’s team have come from other local shops and stores. They enthusiastically share Kyle’s vision to be, as team member Steve Larson put it, “more than another motorcycle dealership; we want to be a gathering place for riders.” Hourglass even has a mezzanine level overlooking the showroom for patrons to grab a cup of coffee, peruse some motorcycle publications, or hold a small group meeting. I sat down with Kyle recently to pick his brain about the history and dream behind Hourglass, some future plans, and the recent unique rollout they hosted for Triumph’s all-new 2016 Bonneville line. Rob: So Kyle, what’s the back story, you and motorcycling? Kyle: I started riding around 6 years old, the little bitty Honda XR. My dad started riding when he was 16 or 17. His parents wouldn’t let him have a bike, so he and his brother went out and bought them BTR 20 | BORNTORIDE.COM
anyway and hid them in the woods! So I grew up around bikes. Dad would take me up to Big Kahuna and old AMA races at Road Atlanta. When I was 14, dad started road racing vintage bikes. He bought a KR750 Harley and raced it, which then turned into building three XR750 Harley road racers. When I was 18, we built a CB350 Honda with a Drixton frame, and I started racing vintage myself, in a different class. When I got my driver’s license at 16, dad bought a Harley Electraglide, gave me his BMW R1100RS, and we rode to the Grand Canyon and back. That was three weeks after I got my street license! We’ve done that trip twice since. So I was hooked on motorcycles—riding, racing, all of it. Rob: How did you get into the motorcycle business? Kyle: Dad was in the car business and did pretty well at it over the years. As I grew up, I worked in his dealership, eventually working my way up to GM of his store in Cartersville, after I graduated from college. He eventually sold them and retired, and I soon decided to go a different direction too. One day, John Landstrom from Blue Moon Cycles called, wanting to know if we would be interested in buying his store, as he was thinking about retiring from the new bike business. It took about a year, but we bought the new BMW franchise from Blue Moon and moved it here to Buford. Triumph came open, so we bought in with them too. I’m here because the car business is a grind. That is needbased selling; this is want-based selling. With me and my dad,
Hourglass Cycles, Honest and True Passion for Motorcycles. Authorized dealer, Service center
it was always about selling cars to pay for the bikes! We are just passionate about motorcycles. Rob: Well, it’s a lifestyle for you guys, a passion, not just a paycheck? Kyle: Exactly! It’s a way of life, that I’m able to make a living at as well. Rob: Tell me about the name, Hourglass Cycles. Kyle: When dad started his race team, he came up with “Hourglass Racing.” The tagline on his trailer reads, “Here Comes the Night” by Van Morrison & Them. Dad loved that song, kind of a play on words, about time slipping away, sands of time. So he thought the name would fit the race team well. When we decided to open the business, he said I could name it whatever I wanted and Hourglass was a natural progression. It tied us to our racing heritage. Hourglass Racing was well-known in the race community. Rob: What’s the vision of Hourglass? Kyle: Simply, to be the best dealership in the southeast! I’ve had my share of frustrations over the years with motorcycle dealerships, and I wanted ours to be different, to be customer-based, to and through the sale. To me, the sale isn’t the end of the relationship, it’s the beginning. After you buy a bike from us, we want to go riding together. Passion, professionalism, and personal touch. That’s my heart. Rob: You guys have Motus! Are you the only shop with them right
now, outside of their home in Birmingham, Alabama? Kyle: We are the only one in Georgia, and our territory North Georgia, the Chattanooga TN area, and the Greenville / Spartanburg SC area. We met with Lee Conn, the president of the company. Lee wants to change the face of American motorcycles and the way people think about them. I would say he has succeeded. We were impressed with everything we saw, from their passion and vision, their R&D, their business model, and their production facilities. We wanted to join them. We saw how well their machines were built. They are distinctly American but not the American bike everyone is used to. Rob: I’m a Triumph guy, having grown up around Bonnevilles and TRs, and I currently own a Sprint ST. I enjoyed the “Bonneville Reborn” party Hourglass hosted with Triumph North America, back in January. How was their rollout of these new models different than a typical unveiling? Kyle: Traditionally, brands take their new bikes to the big conventions, motorcycle shows, and international press releases for their showcasing of them. Triumph decided, ‘These bikes are different,’ so they wanted to do something more personal for customers, the real buyers of their bikes not just the professional pundits. So they took the bikes on tour, from west coast to east, bringing them to the people. Not just to take deposits on bikes but more to introduce people to the Triumph world, to the lifestyle that the Bonneville has always represented. They got two trucks,
Parts supplier for BMW, Triumph, MV Agusta, and Ural motorcycles. www.hourglasscycles.com
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loaded the bikes, and took them to shops like ours. They also rented facilities like breweries, bars, town halls, and so on. They approached us because we had the space to do it. The Triumph people worked with us to pull it off. Many of the Triumph North America execs were present, all connecting with customers and riders, face-to-face. That’s what made this rollout so unique, so special. In fact, you know the guy who did a burnout in the parking lot with the Street Twin? That was Matt Sheahan, the COO himself of Triumph North America, who not only came in for the event, spent the evening with customers, but donned the helmet, straddled the bike, and laid down the burnout. Rob: This is an all-new Bonneville, as I understand from the Triumph reps here that night. A total new build, from the ground up, the first time it’s been done to the Bonney since 1959? Kyle: The whole bike is brand new. Triumph has upgraded the Bonnevilles many times over the years, definitely since the 70s, but they told us the only remaining parts from all previous generations are a handful of bolts. They share no parts with any of the older bikes; everything is indeed brand new. They all actually share the same motor, and externally they look the same, and many external engine parts are swappable. The Street Twin is a 900cc, and the T120 and Truxton are both punched out to 1200cc. This is also the first water-cooled Bonneville in their history. And they did a great job with it, integrating it so well up front. They also have more technology than ever before, with ABS, traction control, heated grips, cruise control, and yet, these new bikes look more like the old classics than the recent year models! BTR 22 | BORNTORIDE.COM
Rob: Yeah, the Street Twin alone reminds me of a late 60s-early 70s T100, aesthetically. Kyle: I love that the T120’s and the Truxton’s throttle bodies look like old Amal carbs! That is so cool. They also did the tech training on the new motors right here at our facility, for the entire southeast. They brought in their techs, and they tore down four motors completely in our shop, down to the bolts, and rebuilt them with our guys. It was incredible. Before we got our first one, our guys knew that motor inside and out. Rob: Exciting days ahead for Triumph, and for Hourglass. Kyle: Yeah, it’s been quite a ride since we opened last fall. On our grand opening back in October, we had about 1,500 people come through, from 10 AM to 5 PM. At noon, I stopped counting at 400 motorcycles in our parking lot, all at once. All kinds of bikes, all kinds of riders, all hanging out together, talking bikes, enjoying the event together. That really confirmed what kind of place I wanted Hourglass to be. Rob: More than a dealership but a gathering place for riders. Kyle: I don’t want to just sell bikes. When I’m older, I want to look back and have been a positive influence on the motorcycle community. I want to ride with my customers. I want to share in the motorcycle lifestyle with them. Rob: Right on. Kyle, I hope you guys are here and successful for many years to come. Kyle: If you are ready to ride, we’ll get you riding today. We are out to earn your Business and treat you like family.
Story and Photos: Robert Brooks
www.hourglasscycles.com, 678-367-0092, 6080 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford, GA 30518
Would you like to ride through stunningly, beautiful scenery? Are you tired of dangerous bumper-to-bumper traffic? Well we have the answers for you! Escape to the beautiful northeast Georgia mountains and north Georgia’s best motorcycle resort, the Copperhead Lodge in beautiful Blairsville, Georgia! It’s 47 acres of biker heaven with special amenities geared to bikers who want the best in accommodations, food, entertainment, and of course, some of the best motorcycling roads in the country. Smooth blacktop, minimal traffic, challenging curves, valleys, and twisties that seem to be made especially for adventuresome riders. Waterfalls, lakes, mountain streams, quaint villages and towns it’s all here. The central headquarters of this motorcycle mecca is the Copperhead Lodge! Beautiful cabins and rooms are just the beginning of this delightful stay at Copperhead Lodge—making sure that your stay is something you will never forget and guaranteeing that you’ll come back time after time again. So we’re headed for the mountains to have a chat with Michelle Evans. Hey, this is Debbie with Born To Ride TV BTR 26 | BORNTORIDE.COM
and we are here at the Copperhead Lodge in Blairsville, Georgia. This is Michelle Evans, the owner of Copperhead Lodge. I’m going to coin you on this trip—The Biker Den Mother! You’re looking out and taking care of everybody. So Michelle, just give us the geographic location of Copperhead Lodge. Where are you located? Michelle: We are about an hour and a half north of Atlanta, Georgia, tucked in the very northeast corner. In 25 miles you can be either in Tennessee or North Carolina. We’ve got 47 acres total. The Lodge is located in the center of the resort. We have 20 acres on the front side of the resort and 27 acres in the back where the creek is. It’s a bit more private and woodsy set up. We have 28 cabins on the property right now. When we’re done, we’ll have 52.
the second owners. We have a vision where motorcycling enthusiasts can come but also people who are not on bikes. We have a great mix of folks here. We do cater to the bikers. You will see that when you walk in; a big rock fireplace with a motorcycle set inside of it. That really sets the true vision. There are a ton of amenities that the bikers love. For example, last night we had a great band, we have guided rides all week long that our local folks do for us. It’s just motorcycle euphoria here!
Debbie: Michelle, you have created something very special at Copperhead Lodge. When you took it over what changes did you make? Michelle: Mostly “lipstick and rouge” to the building to make it more welcoming. We also altered the model to welcome everyone— not just motorcyclists. Of course the built in amenities are still geared toward them, but Debbie: So you’ve got the cabin atmosphere, we have expanded in to hosting many others the lodge atmosphere, the swimming pool, as well. the amphitheater; you’ve got everything! What we’ve really been impressed with is the Debbie: The vision to build and the catering you do for the biker. development stages have continued to grow. Michelle: Absolutely! This place was built with Was that your plan and did you have a time all of that in mind. That was the vision. We’re line on the growth?
Michelle knows Mountain Resort Marketing and you can own the Lifestyle. Call 706-835-7433
Michelle: Yes, the plan was to build out the resort. Our original time line was 5-7 years, however, the area was saturated with foreclosures for the first few years and stifled our growth in the beginning. We’ve sold 8 units over the last 18 months. Debbie: It seems like it’s more than just a business to you. I know first-hand how people love you because of how special you treat them and personal you are to your clients. Michelle: When you are a business owner, I believe it has to be more than a business to you—this is what sets you apart from the rest.
Scan to see Copperhead Lodge come to Life
Michelle: Customer service comes natural to me, but our “brand” focuses on making our customer feel like they are at home. We understand that people work all year to spend their vacation with us, and we want to be sure they make many memories with us.
box” and do creative marketing with me, not just paid ads that look like all the others. The exposure from BTR has brought us many more new customers than I’d ever imagined. I would recommend them without a doubt to any business that is looking for a media partner to not only help them get their Debbie: Everyone I know who has been to message to a target audience but Copperhead Lodge want to come back; how also to get quick results. does it make you feel? The one thing I hear from them is it’s an unbelievable place and that Debbie: Michelle Evans, thank you for taking extra special customer service is awesome. the time to share this with us; is there anything How did you create that brand loyalty? else that you would like to say? Michelle: This is the thing that makes me Michelle: I’d like to thank every person who the most proud. I take exceptional pride has visited us, and to welcome them back. and ownership in our customers and their This isn’t the end, it’s simply a new beginning! experience. The motorcycle community is a tight niche one, and the brand loyalty we’ve built has spread through word of mouth—this has allowed us to grow year after year during a tough economic time while others didn’t fare so well. Debbie: How has the marketing with BTR worked for you; it seems together we have a super relationship?
Debbie: The personal tours you give on your motorcycle to guests are amazing and it really makes a special bond for future sales networking and long lasting friendships. Michelle: The guided rides are the favorite part of my job since it allows me to actually get out and ride. Our guests love the rides and it gives them an experience in the Mountains they wouldn’t have on their own. Debbie: Those are things you don’t have to do but you do them. Is that your special customer service or is it just natural? Michelle: BTR was willing to “get out of the
People tell me all the time, Michelle and her staff know how to make you feel at Home. Ron Galletti
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Thunder in the Mountains and Ride the Gauntlet You’ve heard about the Dragons Tail, but this ride has much more to offer. Put this one on your bucket list. This ride starts and ends at Copperhead Lodge so you can’t go wrong. While your at it, make sure you stop by the Biker Barn on 24A Ivy Log Rd, Blairsville, GA 30512. The Gauntlet (133 mi, 3 hr 27 min) Start at Copperhead Lodge From Blairsville Head northwest on GA-11 N/US-129 N (8.5 mi) Left GA-325 (12.7 mi) Left Blue Ridge Hwy (2.2 mi) Right Skeenah Gap Rd (7.8 mi) Left GA-60 S (15.3 mi) Left SR-180/Wolf Pen Gap Rd (11.2 mi) Right GA-11 S/US-29 S/US-19 S (17.9 mi) Left GA-75Alt S (5.9 mi) Left GA-348 (14.0 mi) Right SR-180 (11.6 mi) Left GA-17 N/GA-75 N/Unicoi Turnpike (6.3 mi) Left GA-17 N/GA-2 W/US-76 W (0.2 mi) Left GA-288 W/Sunnyside Rd (5.8 mi) Left GA-17 N/GA-2 W/US-76 W (14.0 mi) End back at Blairsville Copperhead Lodge
ULTRA SLIM SENA 10R HEADSET SINGLE KIT
A $239.00 Value. Tell us why you should Win the Sena Ultra Slim Headset. Will you share your adventure with us and tell your story? Email: info@BornToRide.com
New 10R Headset Single Kit Perfect for Riders Who Want Streamlined Top Quality Communications at an Affordable Price
Sena 10R Sena Technologies, Inc., the global leader in Bluetooth innovation for the motorsports, action sports and outdoor sports lifestyles, has announced the release of the Sena 10R, now available in a single kit without the remote control for the affordable retail price of just $239. The 10R is their newest Bluetooth communication headset for riders who enjoy a low-profile, sporty headset that is still packed with features and Sena’s legendary full-duplex intercom communication capability. The 10R uses Bluetooth 4.1 technology to increase the clarity and reliability of Bluetooth communications. In addition, Bluetooth 4.1 allows users to operate the 10R with the Sena Handlebar Remote which can be purchased separately for just $99. The 10R is also available with the Sena Handlebar Remote included in the package for just $299. Like all of Sena’s Bluetooth 4.1 products such as the 20S, 10S, 10C and 10U, the 10R is compatible with Sena’s new Smartphone App, which is available for both iOS and Android devices. The app allows users to adjust several of the 10R’s settings from the convenience of a smartphone. Features • Bluetooth Intercom range of up to 900 meters (980 yards) in open terrain • Universal Intercom
• Smartphone App Control • Ten hours of talk time • Lightweight design (.78 oz) • Built-in FM Radio • Bluetooth 4.1 which features Headset Profile (HSP), HandsFree Profile (HFP), Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) and Audio Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) • Advanced Noise Control™ • Firmware Upgradeable
“We are proud to announce that the 10R is now available in a single kit without the remote control for a very affordable price. We know people want choices and in some cases, don’t need a remote control, and that is why we decided to offer the 10R Single Kit,” said Tae Kim, president and CEO of Sena Technologies, Inc. “The 10R is designed to be easily controlled with two large buttons allowing riders to have the ability to answer phone calls, adjust volume and give other inputs with ease. We are confident that the 10R Single Kit will appeal to a wide variety of Sena enthusiasts and riders.” The 10R is also completely compatible with the Sena Prism Audio Action Camera and when paired together, the rider can record voice audio to the Prism while also controlling the device with the 10R. Like all Sena products, the 10R comes with Sena’s industry-leading two-year warranty, and is now available on BuySena.com. For more information as well as the full Sena product
Enter To WIN the NEW SENA 10R Headset, Email: info@BornToRide.com
line, please visit www.Sena.com. About Sena Technologies Inc. Sena Technologies, Inc. is the global leader in Bluetooth Innovation for the motorsports, action sports and outdoor sports lifestyles – enabling real-time communication and optimal performance in the thick of the action. Since its first and flagship product, the SMH10 Bluetooth intercom/headset for Motorcycle helmets, the most cuttingedge technological designs have allowed riders across power sports and motocross to change the way they communicate while charging tracks and courses worldwide. With cyclists, action sports and outdoor sports enthusiasts taking advantage of its impressive communications and onboard technologies – coupled with its sheer innovation in creating new perspectives with Bluetooth audio action camera technology – Sena is enhancing the lives of speed demons and action-seekers for the better. Sena currently offers its products worldwide through its global network of distributors, retailers and OEM partners. BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 31
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Rock City’s Rock Star is the “Incredible’ Doc himself and he can get you riding today! Call: 770-918-9878
Director Thomas J. Churchill
Things are falling into place as the production team moves one step closer toward producing Nation’s Fire, the little independent film with a big bite. Writer/Producer/ Director Thomas J. Churchill (Check Point, The Emerging Past, Lazarus Apocalypse, Mr. Hush) is half way through his biker thriller screenplay. Churchill is writing a hard action thriller, hoping to bring a new and exciting twist to the biker film genre. While Producer Ron Galletti (Born To Ride) is locking down locations and product placement on this epic action thriller, Actress Krista Grotte (The Emerging Past, Check Point, Lazarus Apocalypse) has been getting prepared and motivated to bring a new iconic action hero to life. Churchill has been back in Los Angeles scouting for sound stages for the possibility of bringing some of the indoor sets to California. It is only a precaution as Churchill, Grotte, and Galletti all believe that Nation’s Fire (the entire film) will be shot on location in Florida.
Women’s World
ARE YOU LIVING THE ROBOT LIFE? ARE YOU LIVING OR ARE YOU JUST ALIVE?
Are you waking up, doing your same daily routine, going to sleep and then starting all over again? Years and decades will easily pass you by and you won’t even realize it. One day you look in the mirror in shock and/or disappointment. Are you living or are you just alive? Are you ready to look in the mirror and say this is not how my story goes? You have the power to turn your life into an incredible experience of love, compassion, meaning and purpose. Don’t become complacent and don’t settle. Remember you deserve a great life and it is not the quantity of life but the quality of life that matters. Start delving into your passion. Seek opportunities to make someone else’s life better and brighter. “My greatest fear is not how long I live, but that I did not ‘live’ while I was alive” – author unknown My heart is racing, as I am not just alive I am ‘Living’ life. I learned all this involuntarily through the disguised blessings of my journey through cancer. Learning to live is a lesson better learned voluntarily. Allow me to be your “wake up” call if you will. Begin your journey by asking yourself what it is you want and BTR 36 | BORNTORIDE.COM
value. Then proceed to remove all the values and beliefs that have been ingrained in you that are not beneficial for you; outgrow and discard all that is negative or nonproductive. Release racism and judgments. Open and welcome new ideas and people into your world. Expand your life out of your immediate comfort zone so you can grow and learn. Drop that ego—be humble, loving, and caring of your fellow human beings. Drop any anger and bitterness you are holding toward others or yourself for that matter. Release it and let God and the universe handle it. It is not your job to carry such a burden, and you resolve nothing but hurt yourself. Simplify your life and detach yourself from the material things. Things come and go but it doesn’t matter. It’s just stuff and they do not matter. Concentrate on the things money can’t buy. Things that touch hearts and bring joy to yourself and to others. Get all that heavy load off of you so you can be alive. A perfect example is this gentlemen I met in one of my book signing events. This book signing event was at one of the Harley-Davidson stores where I speak at their women’s garage parties. He told me about his journey of his experience with cancer. He explained that he could no longer ride his bike so instead of giving up on life he bought a trike! He rides everywhere and continues being alive. Don’t let life’s circumstances block you from being alive. Never give up on yourself. So long as you’re here on this earth there is reason to be alive and to celebrate. Encourage others to see life in a different and most beautiful way. Throw out all the nonsense you carry with you. Open your heart and soul and go taste life like you never have before. Go delving into your passion, step outside your box of comfort zone and watch your life change in bigger and better ways than you ever imagined. Come join the EQ LifeStyle: www.EQWS.org . If you have had enough, are ready to make a commitment to yourself to live a life of excellence, refusing to settle for anything less than your very best come join us. If you are prepared to leave all excuses behind and are ready to recreate the most passionate, exciting and purposeful life then I invite you to come check out our upcoming events (Born To Ride Women’s World: An EQ LifeStyle) at www.EQWS.org and/ or www.borntoride.com. Join our mailing list so you don’t miss out. Hayley’s recently published book is available at: www.EQWS.org. Stop by one of the many book signing events listed on the website. Loved to see you there. Hayley is available to travel the United States and internationally to share her contagious passion, wisdom and training. Contact to schedule her at your next organization event: Hayley@EQWS.org. Hayley B. Colina, Esq. Founder EQ Women Succeed, LLC
If you would like info on Born To Ride Womens Club, Email info@borntoride.com
Find It Now USA, LLC the creator of the Original Early Warning GPS Security System designed specifically for the Motorcycle and Powersports Industry, announced today that all of their new GPS Security Systems are backed by a 3 year warranty. FIN is continually upgrading and improving their product including hardware, software and operating systems. The FIN Security System is the premier security and tracking system for the Powersports industry and is ONLY SOLD THROUGH DEALERS! They have the most up to date technology with redundant servers and a highly trained staff to assist you 24/7/365. They are also totally GREEN (paperless) in every way possible, recycling at every opportunity and supporting suppliers that do the same. All FIN units are manufactured in the USA and the features listed below make FIN the most advanced Bike Security System on the market today: ALERT - If bike is moved, the Owner will
receive a text message and /or email alert LOCATE - In the event of a theft, the Owner and/or the FIN tracking Center can immediately track and locate the bike from any SMART Phone, Tablet or Computer that’s hooked up to the internet RECOVER - After locating the bike, the Owner and/or the FIN Tracking Center can interface with the police to quickly recover the bike BOUNDRY NOTIFICATION - Settings allowing the owner to position multiple perimeter notifications, if the boundary is entered or exited the Owner will receive a notification SPEED ALERT - If the Owner is going over the preset speed, they will be notified FIN VIRTUAL ODOMETER - Will accumulate mileage and/or the run time of the vehicle and through FIN’s proprietary software will then send service notifications to the Owner, advising them to return to their dealer for service POWER MANAGEMENT - FIN draws less
than 1-mA in Sleep Mode LOW BATTERY ALERT- When the bike level drops below the prescribed safe level, text and email notifications will be sent to the Owner BATTERY TAMPER ALERT - If the power is cut to the bike or the FIN unit, a text and email will be sent BATTERY BACK-UP - In the event a thief cuts the main battery cable, FIN’s back-up battery will take over so you and our tracking center can continue to locate your bike Many of the largest dealers in the nation are carrying FIN Early Warning GPS Security Systems and are adding thousands of dollars to their bottom line, some as much as 6 figures annually! These dealers know that FIN offers the best theft device available and is quite profitable for dealers selling FIN GPS security systems. American Made, Veteran Owned and Operated and available at Motorcycle and Powersports dealers all across the USA. Dealers! Protect your Customers Investment.
www.B Events March 31 - April 3 Red Boiling Springs, TN Knock the Dust off Your Rust Spring Motorcycle Show & Swap Meet at Cyclemos Motorcycle Museum. For more information about event 615-699-5049 April 1 - April 3 Conyers, GA Heat the Street Falcons Fury H-DŽ Tent Event – Huge Inventory of Pre-Owned Bikes priced to GO! 4/2 12PM -4PM Customer Swap Meet, Blood Drive, Live Music, Vendors & More! Side Walk Sale Up to 50% Off End of Season Apparel & Aftermarket Parts. Come Test Ride the New 2016 Models. In-stock items only. Excludes Motorcycles 770-979-7999 April 1 - April 3 Eatonton, GA Annual Thunder and Dice Fundraiser benefiting GA Chapter 25-1 at Crooked Pines Farm. Live entertainment, auctions, food, and vendors. Dice Run on Saturday; primitive camping on site, lodging nearby with volunteer designated drivers; this is a sanctioned event; all proceeds go to Amputee Outdoors and the Georgia War Veterans Home. For more information visit combatvet.org April 2 Albany, GA Lt. Cliff Rouse 6th Annual Memorial Dice Ride 9AM American Legion Post 30. Pancake Breakfast 8 - 10 AM $5; Lunch 12 -2PM $7; $25 per rider, includes t-shirt, ride pin, and dice roll; $5 per passenger and $5 additional hand. For more information call 229-435-5450 April 2 Decatur, GA 2nd Annual Miles 4 Autism Charity/Benefit Ride. South Dekalb Mall. 2801 Chandler Rd. Register 7AM KSU 10AM $12/rider; $10/passenger. Day of Registration: $15/rider; $12/passenger. For more information call 808-321-1372 April 2 Griffin, GA ABATE Swap Meet & Rally 9AM - 10PM Kiwanis Fairgrounds Motorcycle and Classic Car Shows - PinUp Girl Contest - Live Music - Food and Drink - Raffles and Prizes - Camping. For more info call 678-770-9188 April 3 Raleigh, NC 7th Annual EuroBike 10AM - 3PM at Historic City Market. For more information call 919-525-1159 April 8 Douglas, GA Bikes, Blues, & BBQ Festival. Douglas Municipal Gene Chambers Airport. A combination of events that ensure fun for all ages. GBA sanctioned BBQ competition, popular
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Borngreat To Ride market, promote, and your next event; There are Let some events coming up, so getadvertise out there and meet up call with404-788-3907. old friends!
BornToRide.com/events s, Rides & Destinations brands, motorcycle show, and poker run, arts & crafts, and more. For more information 912-383-0277 April 9 Bradenton, FL 4th Annual BUBBA Poker Run 9:30AM - 5PM Rossiter’s H-D. The fee is $10 per hand or $15 for two. All the proceeds go to Buckle Up 4 B-Swag & Bubba, a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to seatbelt safety education. For more information 941-219-9090 April 9 Athens, GA First Responders Appreciation Event 10AM - 4PM Cycle World of Athens. Free food & drinks, door prizes, dealer tour and more. For event info 706-548-3300 April 9 Conyers, GA “Bikers 4 Levett” Poker Run 11AM - 5PM – Fundraiser for Committee to Re-Elect Sheriff Levett. Entry Fee is $25 per poker hand. Registration is 11am – 1:00pm at FFH-D®. First Bike Out at 11:30am, Last Bike In at 4:00pm, Winner will be announced at 4:30pm. Best Hand Winner Prize–TBA! For more info call 770-979-7999 April 9 Lithia Springs, GA 3rd Annual Ride for James 9:30AM at H-D Atlanta. For more info visit hdatlanta.com April 9 Jacksonville, NC Holly Ridge Liberty Fountain Poker Run 9AM - 3PM at New River H-D libertyfountain.net April 9 Sanford, NC Jaycee Burn Center Benefit Ride & Music Festival 8AM - 11PM at Honda Suzuki of Sanford. For more information 919-776-5642 April 9 Greenville, SC 9th Annual Cool Hand Luke MDA Poker Run at H-D Greenville. For more information 864-234-3140 April 9 Collierville, TN Bull Moose 6th Annual Poker Run 12PM at Recycle Biker Shop. For more information call 901-861-0130 April 9 Paris, TN Brad Coleman Cancer Foundation Rally for a Cause 9AM 7PM Henry County Fairgrounds. For more information 731-441-1916
April 10 Newnan, GA St. Jude Children Research Hospital Poker Run 12PM Twilight Bar & Grill; raffles, auctions, food and music. For more information 404-259-9894 April 15 - April 16 Sebring, FL Sebring Bike Fest. Save the date! Now accepting vendor applications 863-381-6467 April 15 - April 17 Braselton, GA MotoAmerica Road Racing Championship. Road Atlanta, 5300 Winder Hwy. For more information 714-242-5954
votefreemansheriff@gmail.com
706-835-7433 or visit gauntletag.com
April 16 Lithia Springs, GA H-D of Atlanta Open House 11AM - 3PM. For more information hdatlata.com
April 22 - April 24 Leesburg, FL Leesburg Bikefest. Largest 3-day Motorcycle & Music Event. Live music, contests, vendors and more. For more info visit leesburgbikefest.com
April 16- April 17 Warm Springs, GA Xtreme Rider 12th Anniversary Party. If you’ve never been here for a party make this your year. Hosted by Garage 71, live music, games, prizes, vendors. Meet Author Wayne Littrell and “Ask a lawyer” Stefanie Drake Burford. For more information 706-655-2463
April 16 - April 24 April 15- April 17 Grandy, NC Barry’s on Walnut Island Harbinger, NC 14th Annual Outer Restaurant & Lodge 252-453-2261 Banks Bike Week at Outer Banks of NC. For more information about the April 16 event 252-491-2091 Stapleton, AL Martha Ann Wingo Hinton 3rd Annual Memorial April 17 Scholarship Ride 9AM Stapleton Fire Lexington, SC Midland Ride for Kids Department. Cost: $10 Rider only; $20 Rider and passenger. For more 12PM at Lexington HS. For more information 800-253-6530 information 251-978-0296 April 16 Orange Park, FL Hogs for Dogs Bike Run 9:30AM Adamec H-D. Cost is $30 per person - includes: T-shirt, goodie bag, music, dinner & more. For more visit clayhuman.org April 16 Orlando, FL 4th Annual Pigs Against Pediatric Cancer Ride 10AM - 5PM at Nemours Children’s Hospital. For more info 321-230-1960 or ironpigsorlando.com April 16 Conyers, GA Falcons Fury H-D® Tax Relief Day Customer Appreciation Day 12PM - 4PM – Just our way of saying “Thank You” for being a loyal customer! Our Gift to you on Tax Day Enjoy Live Music, Free Food and Free Beer (While Supplies Last) provided by Hooters of Conyers. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY! Call 770-979-7999 April 16 Cumming, GA Ron Freeman for Sheriff Ride 10AM Good ol’ Days Bar and Grill. We will be riding to Atlanta MotorSports Park (AMP) just outside of Dawsonville. Once there, we will be allowed to ride our motorcycles for several laps on the Race Track (Pace Car regulated)—($25 per Bike, Riders welcome!) FMI 770-533-1953 or
April 22 - April 24 Milledgeville, GA Thunder Rally (spring) at South Creek. Best campground party in GA, gates open Sunday before the event. For more info 478-804-2999 April 23 Columbus, GA Randy Couture’s Charity Ride for Our Troops at Chattahoochee H-D. For more information 706-576-3202
April 23 Dallas, GA Healing 4 Heroes Ride 4 Life Poker Run 11Am - 6:30PM Pizza Shack. Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) Chapter 25-3 is sponsoring its first annual “Healing April 20 - April 23 4 Heroes Ride 4 Life” poker run. Anderson, SC State HOG Rally at This event is aimed at raising Holiday Inn. For more information call operating funds for Healing 4 Heroes 803-518-0326 (H4H). Included in this event are a motorcycle poker run, refreshments, April 20 – April 24 music, and assorted door prizes. For Unadilla, GA Angel City Spring more information call 404-259-2823 Motorcycle Rally. Off I-75 Exit 122 or visit combatvets25-3.org Bike games, bike show, bike ride, live music, wet t-shirt contest, burn out April 23 pit, vendors, and two saloons in an Hickory, NC Leathernecks MC Poker “Old West” theme town, and MORE! Run 10AM - 6PM at Blue Ridge RV sites available. Reserve your RV H-D. For more information about the site ASAP because they are all gone event 828-514-7959 six weeks prior to rally. For more information 478-627-3168 April 23 Swannanoa, NC Wheels to the Wall April 21 Pledge Ride 11AM - 3PM Asheville Dalton, GA GWRRA Georgia Wing H-D. The goal of Wheels To The Fling. NW GA Trade & Convention Wall is to recognize one of Western Center, 2211 Dug Gap Battle Rd. North Carolina’s military veterans GWRRA Members $35/nonmember by sponsoring their trip to Rolling $40/On-site registration additional Thunder in Washington DC. Cost, $5 to each. A $15 day pass will including 4 nights hotel lodging, gas, be sold on site and is good for the and meals is projected to be $800. vendor area, hospitality area, and For more information 828-581-2000 indoor games and only on the day of purchase. Join us for games, vendors, April 23 food, and lots of fun. Visit gwrra-ga. Beauford, SC PGRC Tour 10AM com/rally.html 4PM at American Cycle. Ride and golf to help support comfort boxes for April 21 - April 24 kids admitted to Beauford Memorial Blairsville, GA Thunder in the Mountains 843-379-5225 Copperhead Lodge. Call for information
To Send submitinand eventomore events visit www.GeorgiaBikeEvents.com yourview events info@BornToRide.com, help us help you.
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www.BornToRide.com/events April 23 Simpsonville, SC Marines MC Lunchmeat Poker Run 10AM - 11:59AM at Turn 1 ESB Sports Bar 864-862-2261 April 23 Lebanon, TN 5th Annual Tennessee Biker Medical Clinic Ride 11AM - 6 PM at Adrenaline Bar & Grill. For more information 615-281-7279 April 27 - May 1 Panama City Beach, FL Thunder Beach Spring Rally. Come out to the most biker-friendly free rally in the US thunderbeachproductions.com April 27- May 1 Seven Springs, NC Thunder on Tobacco Road spring Rally at Mason Dixon Park. For more information 804-894-0558 April 28 Athens, GA Cycle World of Athens Bike Night 5PM - 9PM. For more information call 706-548-3300
Maynardville, TN Ride for Independence 11AM - 3PM at Li’l Jo’s BBQ. For more information about the event 865-992-9886 May 1 Apex, NC Triangle Ride for Kids 8AM at Jordan Lake State Recreation Area - White Oak Recreation Area. For more information 800-253-6530 or curethekids.org May 5 - May 8 Atwood, TN Boogie Hollar Motorcycle Rally 164 Clay Farm Lane. For more information call 931-498-2250 May 7 Durham, NC 3rd Annual Aidan’s Ride 10:30AM at Rommel HarleyDavidson. For more information 919-596-9511
May 7 Sanford, NC - Silver City, NC ALS Charity Motorcycle Ride 9:30AM at April 28 - May 1 3128 S. Horner Blvd. in Sanford; Okaloosa Island, FL Emerald Coast Earthquake Biker Bash at The Boardwalk. ride ends in Silver City. For more For more information visit ecerthquake.com information 919-353-0947 April 29 - May 1 Munford, TN U.S. Military Vets MC VA Hospital Fund Raiser at U.S. Military Vets Clubhouse skinback1861@gmail.com. April 29 - May 1 Hiawassee, GA 2016 Georgia Mountain Rally. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Registration $55/rider before April 12; $65/rider after April 12. Regular rally attractions and major prize draws. FMI contact the BMW Motorcycle Club of GA
May 7 Greenville, SC 10th Annual MMA Poker Run at Greenville HarleyDavidson. For more information 864-234-1340
May 7 Caryville, TN SCHAS Campbell Scott Motorcycle Ride 11AM - 5PM at Cover Lake State Park. For more information 865-824-4301 or visit schas.org May 7 Old Hickory, TN Smith/Wilson/ Stones River CMT ABATE Swap Meet 9AM - 4PM at HDP Motorcycle Consignment. For more information 615-310-3436 May 13- May 15 Maggie Valley, NC Thunder in the Smokies Motorcycle Rally at Maggie Valley Fairgrounds. For more information 828-246-2101 or handlebarcorral.com May 13- May 22 Marion, SC Swamp Fox Spring Biker Bash at Swamp Fox Entertainment Complex. For more information 843-206-0862 May 13- May 22 Murrells Inlet, SC Myrtle Beach Bike Week Spring Rally. For more info 336-643-1367 May 14 Hiram, GA Paulding Pregnancy Baby Needs Run 9AM Paulding Building. Cost is a box of diapers ($25.00 value) per bike or combination of the following Baby shampoo, lotion, wipes and pacifiers. For information about the event call 770-652-4733
May 7 Spartanburg, SC Run for the Son CMA 10AM - 5PM at Peach Blossom Restaurant. For more information about 864-494-0402. May 14 Jesup, GA 4th Annual Hospice of South Georgia Raffle Run 8AM May 7 Wilkesboro, NC 8th Annual CVMA 2PM at Hospice of South Georgia April 29 - May 1 Columbia, SC Days of Thunder Motorcycle 15-5 Benefit Ride 10AM Crossroads 912-588-0080 Harley-Davidson 704-906-6878 Rally at H-D Thunder Tower. For more May 14 information about the event 803-461-1121 or cvmaride.com Murfreesboro, TN Middle Tennessee Ride for Kids 9AM at May 7 April 30 Barfield Crescent Park. For more Winterville, NC Ride for the Cumming, GA Forsyth County Sheriff’s information 800-253-6530 Warriors 8:30AM - 1PM at Office Motorcycle Safety Day 10AM Hometown Harley-Davidson. For 2PM at Cumming Fairground. FMI visit May 18 more information about the event motorcyclesafetyday@forsythco.com Surfside Beach, SC Crude’s 252-439-1345 6th Annual Meet & Great Ride April 30
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(Wounded Warrior Project) 9AM - 11PM at 415 Hwy 17. For more information call 216-280-4755 May 19- May 22 Tellico Plains, TN Tellico Biker Spring Rally 423-337-8390 or tellicobikerally.com
May 21 Athens, GA Ride 4 the Fallen 10AM Cycle World of Athens. For more information 706-548-3300 May 22 Surfside Beach, SC Crude’s 6th Annual Meet & Great Ride (Wounded Warrior Project) 9AM - 11PM at 415 Hwy 17. For more information call 216-280-4755
May 30 Loganville, GA 18th Ride for America 7AM at American Legion Post 233. For more information 770-978-1739 or visit rideforamerica.org
June 2- June 5 Helen, GA Annual Southeast Victory Rally Bavarian town of Helen. For more 229-506-0641 or visit victoryrally.com. June 4 Evans, GA Annual Deputy JD Paugh Memorial Ride & Concert 10AM at Antebellum Pavilion. For more info jdpaughmemorial.org
June 5 Cumming, GA Atlanta Ride for Kids 8AM at Cumming Fairgrounds. For more information 800-253-6530 or curethekids.org June 9- June 12 Cleveland, GA Hooters on Scooters Motorcycle Rally at Mountain Creek Grove. For more information 706-865-6930
June 11 Swansboro, NC Fisher House Poker Run 3PM - 8PM Sidewinders Speakeasy. All proceeds go to the Camp Lejeune Fisher House 910-325-7535
Craven Moorehead Fear and Loathing on the Magazine Trail Well, here I sit in the trailer park wondering once again how I’m gonna get a story into the magazine— albeit a few days late—to insure that all of my dedicated readers are entertained correctly. But there’s so little time to do anything nowadays. I mean, seriously—I’m really busy doing a lot of things that make no sense to a normal person. Being normal has never been my way of life, and since I often stray many miles away from the ‘status-quo’ it becomes sorta hard to express a relatable experience that would intrigue an intelligent reader. The deadline, long passed has made it a necessity to get (anything) that is cognizable out to you folks who still love to hear about things that happen to me. A locksmith simply fixes locks, keys and other mechanical devices used for the security of valuable property. A wordsmith on the other hand, just sits down and thinks about what he could possibly do to report the news, create a riot or insurrection, or possibly entertain the readers. All professions are important, and jobs are hard to find, but writing is a passion that comes from within the mind, heart, and soul. Unlike creating content, working is a necessity whether it is delivering magazines, cleaning floors, windows and toilets, or any other gig that you can get. We all gotta eat! I have the news on the TV at this moment as usual, and I cannot remember the last time that I have watched it and not heard a report about some fool going the wrong way on a major highway, the interstate, or other tributary upon which we all must travel. This is a daily event as sad as it sounds. Most of these people cause death or injury and in almost every case damage the vehicles involved and the people driving them. Most of these events are due to a person being drunk or possibly under the influence of something. I admit that I often forget things and certainly do enjoy a few beers, but for some reason I have yet been able to figure out why an individual would risk their own life and the lives of others to drive impaired to the point that they would go the wrong way on any road. This is a very serious situation for us when riding a motorcycle even though we likely stand a better chance of swerving to avoid the inevitable accident than those in a larger vehicle. Obviously this is a dangerous thing. I am not attempting to profess that I am a better driver than anyone else out there, but I can assure you that I put in a few more miles in 4 to 6 days a month than most do in a year. That is
unless you are an over the road trucker or a full time delivery boy (I’m a part timer) and I get a pretty good amount of mileage when driving for the magazine. There are a lot of things that piss me off out there, but overall I try to be a courteous and respectful driver while on the job. If other people would just do that when they get behind the wheel, I believe that we would all be safer and happier. Here are just a few incidences that I have observed while either on the bike, at work, or in my own pickup. These are fairly recent observations and for the sake of brevity I won’t and couldn’t possibly recount every stupid or disrespectful act of ignorance that other people have done to create my fear and loathing. Mostly loathing— as fear is only a weakness. Once, while In the middle of the route in the Ocala, FL area I was actually very close to becoming a victim of a wrong-way driver. Heading northbound on 301/441 I spotted a set of headlights belonging to a car that should have been in the other lane, NOT mine! This incident was on a divided highway but yeah, it was dark, late at night, and evidently ‘amateur hour’ was upon me. Instinctively, I began to slow down and try to evaluate the situation and plan an escape route from the obvious danger. There are always plenty of opportunities to escape an accident, but you must think fairly quickly to avoid the inevitable crash. As I pulled into the right lane and saw an available alternative to the situation a local cop lit up the driver going the wrong way—which is often more scary than having to discharge your own weapon to correct the situation! I successfully made it through all that without incident. I remember distinctly on a few occasions being run off the road by people texting while driving. I know it’s against the law, but people rarely obey this law and it creates a problem for responsible drivers whether on two, four or a dozen or more wheels. It’s kinda scary when you realize that someone in a 2-ton vehicle isn’t paying attention. Mostly, it just pisses you off when you have to take measures to avoid an accident because of other’s irresponsibility. I am also disappointed to report that on several occasions I have been run off the road—both on the bike and in a fairly large company truck—by other ‘professional’ drivers in big rigs who are distracted by all the gizmos on their dash to the point that they can’t be aware of their surroundings. I know y’all are tired and bored, but so am I. Been there, done that and don’t wanna kiss the guard-rail. Curiously, most of the time I pretty much never get run off the road while driving my own ‘hillbilly’ truck even though it is camouflaged and has no flashy chrome. Perhaps these people were able to see the rifle in the gun-rack or maybe they simply paid attention to the fact that an antique vehicle was still on the road and were surprised to see that it was actually running. Remember that statistically hundreds of people die each year from irresponsible drivers behind the wheel. Let’s keep the highways safe. Use your head and as Phil Esterhaus used to say, “Let’s be careful out there”! Until next month, speed safely and keep yer eyes open!
Let us know what you think of Craven Moorehead, info@borntoride.com
CRAVEN
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Christian Motorcyclists Association Hope you all survived a great time at Bike Week! By now it’s all over, and we are left with reminders of a great trip. First, many of us have a few more pounds than before we left for Bike Week. The food is so varied, and incredibly delicious, not to mention the sights to be had while eating on the Intracoastal Waterway, overlooking Hwy A1A, or simply having a snack at the ocean’s edge. I have a few “must see” restaurants to visit during each trip to Daytona, all the way from Mexican to Bar BQ, um-um good! Maybe you picked up a new accessory for your bike, and are excited about bolting it onto your ride. My favorite purchases are lights, lots of lights, can’t get enough lights to be seen by the cagers! My bike may end BTR 44 | BORNTORIDE.COM
up being a little obnoxious, but the best way to stay safe on a ride is to make sure that I am seen by one and all. Fortunately, most law enforcement officers are happy to see a white wall of lights preventing an accident, or worse. The best thing we can bring home from Daytona is the great memories. It’s great to see old friends, meet new ones, and just kick back and be part of the festivities. Probably the greatest blessing concerning spending time with old friends and new is that it doesn’t have to cost a lot. It’s almost like being able to hang out with friends is a free gift. You know, there is another free gift that was being offered at Bike Week, the greatest gift anyone can receive. The CMA ministry teams were busy blessing bikes, praying with folks who need a touch of God upon their lives, and showing people how to accept God’s free gift of salvation. In Ephesians 2:8-9 (NKJV) the Bible tells us,
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Simply put, forgiveness from God is free, and accepted by a person having faith in Jesus. This means that we can’t earn our forgiveness; it is a gift of grace from God Himself. When a person finds themselves believing in the promises of God, it is that faith, and nothing else, that calls the Heavenly Father to pour His grace upon the one seeking forgiveness. And what is grace, it is God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense. In other words, Jesus paid the price for our sins, and because of His love and forgiveness for us, God has mercy on us and forgives us of all sins, past, present and future. Wow, that’s worth getting excited about and shouting out in joy! How was your Bike Week, did you meet the Savior? If not, just call upon His name and let Him change your world! In The Wind, Denny Dingler Check out BornToRide.com for more articles from Christian Motorcyclists Association