FROM THE PUBLISHER
More than 15 years ago, our team started hosting and producing local motorcycle events and working with Ohio Bike Week to put on the biggest event in the Midwest. Our organization began evolving from day one as we constantly refined and adjusted our mission as our community grew and changed. We started hosting Bike Nights at local bars and restaurants and then expanded our focus to include charity events – with a motorcycle twist. We’ve always believed in “partying for a cause” or “riding for a reason” whenever possible; and thankfully, most riders are always up for supporting a good cause or party! So, when you can combine them both – it’s a certain win-win!
While my own family and roots have always been in Michigan, our initial events and first magazines were out of Ohio. From that base – our first magazines quickly became some of the largest in the country, with our rally guides and summer editions often numbering over 160 pages. We combined content and event listings – of course supported by the notices and ads from our sponsors. But we always tried to ensure that even our ads added something to the magazine. We recruited solid, credible sponsors and tried to support worthwhile events always. Our belief was that if we couldn’t recommend an event or business personally – then it shouldn’t be in our magazines.
Times have changed and the entire business was turned upside down by COVID, but the industry changes re-affirmed the direction we had already taken Reasons To Ride. We were already focusing more on larger events – covering a larger region. We were distributing more of the magazines online and through local shops and taverns, but the content was more focused on the bike shows, rallies, and riding community as a whole. Instead of focusing on a smaller region – we decided to focus on the entire Midwest. We partnered with other regional magazines such as Hard Tales in upstate New York and PA and introduced new regional editions such as Appalachia, allowing us to reach MORE RIDERS and share what was happening there. We are sharing more content between the magazines, and Multi-State Editions such as this are our main focus.
Your bike isn’t restricted by state lines so why should your motorcycle magazine? We really believe that everyone should get out and RIDE – not just to the corner coffee shop or bar, but to regional events and rallies. Or maybe check out the coffee shop or restaurant across the state, or maybe the next state over. It’s the unexplored roads and new adventures that fuel the fire within us when riding.
We still believe in riding for a cause or with purpose whenever possible – even if that cause is simply to save our own sanity!
We believe in riding with good people that have your back when trouble arises, because it happens. Being a biker is about being practical, no-nonsense, and being made of better stuff. And we strive for our magazines to be the same. No drama, no games –instead, just focusing on the riding experience.
Let us know what you think and where you think we should go. We’re all on this journey together, and we appreciate your support.
RIDE STRONG!
Sincerely,
D. A. Smith Publisher, Reasons To Ride
D.A. Smith
On the Cover: Rick Miller, aka “Santa” displays his Indian Chieftain Trike at the
Bike Show, defying anyone to guess exactly how much “metal flake” you really can put onto a bike. It’s a show favorite, as much due to the bike as it is due to Rick’s good nature.
NOW BOOKING FOR 2025
Reserve your date for a RtR BIKE SHOW, TATTOO PARTY, SOUND COMPETITION, or PHOTO SHOOT!
Although there is STILL a lot of riding left to do this year, we’ve already begun looking towards next year’s schedule. One of the biggest challenges we face every year is trying to develop a schedule that covers “our market” with active appearances and reaches the most riders – without stretching us too thin… or simply burning us out. Yes, that’s an actual consideration – I promise.
With us now expanding our focus to include APPALACHIA, NORTHERN NEW YORK, WESTERN PA, and parts south… we’re looking for existing events and strong partners for us to develop a relationship with through hosting events and sharing their message. Our BIKE and TATTOO SHOWS are designed to not only entertain folks, but to actively engage riders and allow both us and our partners to network with. Anyone that’s attended our shows can attest to the family approach that we take with our exhibitors. It’s NOT simply about the bikes – but about the riders and builders as well.
But this approach is one that we seek to develop over time – by finding the right partners and building the shows year, by year. For instance our upcoming Geneva-on-the-Lake Bike Show is going on 14 years. During this time we’ve seen builders and “fades” come and go – and bikes built and then exhibited by multiple generations. We’ve seen multiple cutting edge bikes come and collect all the awards – and then serve as the inspiration for the bike that comes and takes the trophy the next year. It’s really pretty cool.
Our TATTOO PARTIES are designed to not only showcase amazing artwork done throughout our communities, but to also bring out new folks into our community. We want to reach into the TATTOO COMMUNITY and encourage them to come out and experience the riding community and the energy we have. That means new customers that might not otherwise frequent your event or business. And those new folks might inspire even more folks as they come back and share their experiences without their circles.
To this end, we offer turn-key promotions that work to maximize the marketing potential of your event or business. We take care of all the essentials and can even bring our own power if need be. If you’re looking for a long term partner, to bring a turn-key event to your location – we might be just what you’re looking for. Contact us at BikeShowInfo@gmail.com or you can call me directly at 440-678-8608.
BECOME A LOCAL ROAD REP
If you’re a rider that’s active in your local riding community, we’d invite you to consider becoming a Local Road Rep for Reasons To Ride. This is NOT meant to be a sales position or full time job for anyone – but is a chance to help promote local events and businesses, while making a “few dollars” to support your riding habit!
Like most things, you get what you put out of it – but it’s meant to be a fun gig for riding enthusiasts. If you’re really active and cover a larger area, you can make good money – but that takes time and a commitment. The real payoff is to have a good time as the person to see about getting events or even just a picture in the “local biker mag”.
We aren’t looking for guys wanting to be “part-time bad guys” or any nonsense like that, we’re looking for reliable good folks that want to help support others in the community. The ideal folks might be active supporters of a local charity, and are looking to expand their activities while getting more exposure for their own ride. We can handle the sales aspects of the area, but we will look to you for pictures of local events and updates as to what’s coming up.
And you’ll be able to make some money doing what you’re most likely already doing. We’re asking for a minimum time commitment of 8-10 hours a month. It helps if you have a laptop and a camera – although a smartphone can usually do it. You’ll get some cool swag, access to rallies and other events, and a chance to help a lot of local folks. As our coverage and presence in the area increases, you are able to share in the revenue generated. It’s a pretty proven business plan – it’s what built this entire organization. We think it’s a pretty good deal – for the right folks.
If any of this sounds interesting to you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We will be scheduling “Intro Video Seminars” over the next few months to help explain how it all works. And now is the time to jump in, as we prepare for the change in season and begin looking to next year.
So don’t delay – send us an email and tell us a little bit about yourself! Info@ReasonsToRide.com
MOTORCYCLE MINISTRIES
MARY GILBERT, CMA STATE COORDINATOR
Awareness…
In the motorcycling world, we are all very aware of the dangers of riding. We don’t ride in fear, however there is a silent respect we have for our machines and those around us. We must maintain this attitude because of the lack of attention given by others driving on the roads we travel. This awareness becomes a routine part of our riding skills and even filters over to our cages…at least it should. There’s something else that should be part of our routine as well.
‘What are you getting at MG?’
Being aware of everything and everyone around us is a learned practice and a purposeful protection that comes with experience and an understanding of ‘Murphy’s Law’. That is a realization that anything, at any time, could rise up and create an issue and if we aren’t paying attention, could wreak havoc on us.
We have experienced a couple of mishaps and serious accidents recently and it has made me take a good look at what is most important in this life. It has also made me quite aware of the need for protection, both physically and spiritually. The something else I was speaking of earlier that should be part of our routine is prayer. Inviting the Lord into everything we do brings a hedge of protection around us that keeps the surprises at a minimum. Rex and I do this every time we leave the house, no matter what vehicle we choose to go in.
‘But I don’t talk to God…I don’t even know where or how to begin!’ It’s very simple…’Lord, be with me today as I go about my
way. Open my eyes to danger and bring me back home safely.’
Maybe you are thinking that you don’t even know if you believe in all of that. Perhaps you run with the attitude that ‘fate is fate and there’s nothing that will change it’. Here’s where we might differ in opinion and that is okay, but I would like to share my thoughts with you.
To me, going out without the covering of prayer is like going out when it’s looking like rain without any raingear. When it starts to rain, the gear won’t do much good if it’s still in the saddlebag or left at home. The result is that we are going to be wet and usually very uncomfortable. Had we taken the time to put on the gear over dry clothes…or remembered to put them back on the bike after cleaning like someone I hold very dear did, but that’s another story…we would at least be more comfortable and less aggravated. Same goes for prayer covering. We may not have any worries for the day, or… something like a cage mindlessly pulls out in front of you from a dead stop and just missed you by inches because you ‘had a hunch’ and slowed down just enough to avoid the collision before the guy, again, mindlessly pulled out. Is it foolproof? No, but it is faith-full and when we are ready with the right gear, we are ready for anything.
Bottom line: There is surety in the hope of God and there is power in His name. That’s where we put our trust. That’s where we become more aware of everything and everyone around us. If you aren’t quite sure of that, then be sure of this…when we see you out and about, we pray for you, whether you know it or not. It’s what we do. When you see CMA anywhere at any time, don’t hesitate to stop a moment and say ‘hey’. Don’t be taken by surprise if some of us are bold enough, (probably this five foot, ball of enthusiasm because I forget about ‘rules’, never have been too good at that), to speak to you as well. We won’t harp, preach or judge. We are bikers and just like you, we are out enjoying the adventure, covered and ready for anything ol’ Murphy attempts to throw at us.
Be safe, be aware and be ready! We will see you around, I am sure! Y’all are invited to come to our Rally in September in St. Marys at Cross Oak Camp on Jack Point Rd. Bring the whole family! There’s something for everyone! September 20-22. Camping available!
Catch you in the Wind!
Mary G.
COME RIDE WITH US!
CMA is a servant minded interdenominational motorcycle ministry with a non-denominational message of hope and love through Jesus Christ. Enjoy the family atmosphere, make life-long friends, and join an army of people dedicated to changing the world, one heart at a time in the highways and byways.
Visit us at www.cmausa.org for more information.
Have a message you’d like to share?
If you have a message that you’d like to share with riders across Ohio and the Midwest, let us know. Reasons To Ride welcomes the opportunity to work with established motorcycle ministries. Feel free to share upcoming events with us as well, by emailing information to Events@ReasonsToRide.com
Sport Touring Corner
By Norm Kern, MSTA Editor / ReasonsToRide.com Contributor
Part One: (Group) Size Matters!
As I've said many times, sport-touring riders view motorcycling as a skill-based sport. That doesn't mean they are particularly interested in racing or competition, but rather look forward to a challenge and enjoy practicing and developing their riding skill. It's not about simply riding a fun, challenging road, it's riding at a brisk pace, getting in the "zone" of total concentration on a capable motorcycle. While some prefer riding alone, most of us enjoy riding even more with some friends, so I will discuss group riding from a sport-touring perspective.
Before we get into what's different about sport-touring group riding, consider group riding in general. Most riders think of it in social terms, trying to be as inclusive as possible to encourage participation of new or inexperienced riders and embracing a welcoming spirit of "the more the merrier." These are noble goals, but they don't serve the needs of sport-touring riders for several reasons.
First, welcoming all comers to a single riding group invites large disparities in riding skill. This compounds "the slowest common denominator" problem where the slowest rider necessarily determines the overall pace of the ride. The choice becomes going slower or making frequent stops to wait for slower riders. In a sport-touring group, these "catch-up" stops repeatedly break riders' concentration, eliminating the opportunity for them to get into "the zone," one of the main things sport-touring riders look forward to on a ride.
In the same vein, large "more the merrier" group size increases the frequency of stops for gas, bathroom breaks, etc. Then there's the logistics of trying to stay together going through towns with traffic, signal lights etc. Trying to lead a large group and keep it together is stressful and often does not work for sport-touring groups.
One of my friends got so frustrated with large groups, he just threw up his hands and declared, "From now on, I'm riding alone. That way, I can go where I want, at the pace I want, stop wherever I wish and not worry about pleasing anyone else." Nevertheless, we went riding for a weekend. We got along great, but it was because I let him lead and make all the decisions about where to go, when to stop, etc. Always doing what someone else wants to do doesn't sound like any more fun that poking along in a large group, but it points to the MSTA answer to the group riding dilemma, which is:
WHAT IF you had a few people to ride with and they all happen to like the same types of roads, the same pace and style of riding, like stopping for breaks around the same time and like the same kinds of places to eat? Even though all of you are riding as a group, everyone gets to do pretty much exactly what they want!
That sounds great, but how does it work out when you have a group of 20-100+ people who want to ride? First, the large number of riders makes it more likely you will find one or a few who are very compatible
with what you like. Second, rather than trying to get everyone to ride together, riders simply sort themselves into small "common interest" riding groups of compatible riding styles and preferences. That's exactly what we do at Motorcycle Sport Touring Association (MSTA) rallies.
Another advantage of small groups is that everyone doesn't have to leave at the same time or ride the same route. In fact, a wide selection of suggested routes is one of the great features of MSTA rallies. Choices include twisty routes with smooth pavement and “technical” routes that use county roads with less than perfect pavement that take you to beautiful back country. Other choices include destination routes that feature scenic attractions, parks, places to eat, touring bikefriendly routes and simple navigation routes for casual pace riding. There are even dirt and gravel routes for dual-sport and adventure riders at most rallies. All routes are compiled by members that live in the area, know every single road and how to string them together for non-stop fun. They are offered in GPX file format.
In addition to route choices, MSTA rally attendees themselves offer a wide range of personal riding styles and interests. Most are regular sport-touring riders but you will find riders in full leathers on pure sport
bikes and riders of ADV bikes of all sizes riding both pavement and adventure routes. You'll also find Goldwing riders, some Harleys, CanAm Spyders and even a scooter or two.
Regular MSTA rally attendees quickly get to know each others' preferences and self-select into small groups of two to about six riders and many ride with a different group each day. That's great for regular attendees and those who know other members well, but what about newcomers? For them, we have the MSTA Find Riding Partners system and form. Here's how it works:
1. Circle your riding preferences on the form- It takes less than a minute. Add whatever contact information you wish at the bottom. Leave your form on the stack of completed forms for others to view. https://flybyweek.com/ridingpartners.html
2. Browse other riders' forms and use your phone to take pictures of the ones you want to connect with for easy reference.
3. Connect- Don't wait for someone to contact you- call, text or email others you're interested in riding with.
4. Network- You will have ample opportunity to meet and get acquainted with others at rally registration and evening social functions. If you are new or looking for people to ride with, introduce yourself to other attendees and tell them what you're looking for. Some rally volunteers and club ambassadors fill out the forms as well so you might find and experienced club member to ride with!
You can get help any time by asking one of our MSTA Ambassador volunteers. Just look for the Ambassador ribbon on their membership badge.
MSTA members are generally safe and responsible, so you'll be riding with someone who wears gear, has a lot of riding experience, and a bike that's insured and in good repair. MSTA members also avoid adult beverage consumption until the bikes are put away for the day, so you're always in good company!
Connect with local Ohio Motorcycle Sport Touring Association riders at these monthly breakfasts:
Southwest Ohio Breakfast, 9AM, August 17th Village Family Restaurant 144 S. Main St. Waynesville, OH 45068
Central Ohio Breakfast Meet - 8AM Sept 1st Portside Cafe 6515 S High St Lockbourne, OH 43137
RtR CHAMPIONSHIP BIKE SHOW SERIES
PRESENTED BY ERSKINE LAW
PUT HER IN THE SHOW – AND JOIN THE FAM!
After doing these shows for more than 12 years, it’s great seeing how many connections and friendships that have developed over the years between folks coming to the shows. There’s a common bond that exists among folks that customize or even create their own bikes. People start talking about what they’ve built, what they have at home, and what they rode up to the show. And this year – we are doing even more to help facilitate those discussions and really ensure that everyone has a great time at the show! Regardless of what you have – all makes, models, and years are welcome. Come on out and show off what you’ve done – and join the RTR BIKE SHOW FAMILY!
BIKE SHOW YEARBOOKS!
We are excited to announce that we will once again be creating a “Yearbook” upon the completion of the 2024 Bike Show series. It is our hope to have these produced and in-hand in time for the holiday season and Christmas. These books will be hardcover with full color pictures printed on high quality paper stock. It’s our goal to make these keepsakes that are worthy of showcasing the bikes featured inside.
The books will contain photos and recognition of some of the amazing bikes featured throughout the year at Bike Shows ranging from the WILD TURKEY FESTIVAL at the start of the year through to the GENEVA Thunder Zone show. We will also include shots from other regional shows and events – and some of the bikes seen there.
If you’d like to have your bike featured in the yearbooks, we’d encourage you to let us know in advance. We will also be accepting pre-orders for the books through October. If you’d like to reserve a book or find out more information on getting your bike featured, you can email us at BikeShowInfo@gmail.com
IT's SHOWTIME!
With June upon us, our Bike Show Series is solidly underway. Kicking off with OHIO BIKE WEEK to start the month – and then rolling directly into Ray C’s, Zeppe’s, Arsenal H-D, and then with finish out the month with the Buckeye Motorcycle and Music Rally! Wow – just when you thought we couldn’t get any busier, we not only add new rallies and dates – we even stretch into more states! Our goal, as always, is to get more folks (and their bikes) involved and to make the shows that more entertaining and fun for all involved. We want to grow the series – and with your help, it’s happening!
NEW for 2024!
Exhibitor Lanyards and Pins
Select RTR Bike Shows will now feature special badges and lanyards for those exhibiting motorcycles at the show. This will make it easier for everyone to identify who the builders are and encourage discussion as folks looks to hear more about the bikes. These lanyards will be provided free of any additional cost for those registering in advance for these shows, courtesy our sponsor – Erskine Law.
We will also begin presenting “show pins” for those exhibiting motorcycles. Series and custom show pins will help recognize those that are “seasoned exhibitors” and the shows they have participated in. These collectible pins can be attached to jackets and vests; and will also be provided free of any additional cost for those registering in advance, courtesy Erskine Law
Expanded Sound Competitions
We will be incorporating informal sound competitions into more of the RtR Bike Shows this year. These will be “King of the Hill” style competitions with winners chosen based upon overall sound quality – not simply the decibels they can produce. While we will have several classes – the emphasis will be on creating a fun opportunity to showcase quality sound systems. If you’re at a show and want to set up a “grudge match” style challenge – just let us know! In many cases we will have everything there, including custom trophies for those winning the challenges!
Legacy Bike Recognition
In an effort to showcase Best of Show motorcycles – and possibly give others a chance to win as well, we will now be inviting past winners to come and exhibit their bikes as prominent features of the shows they have won. We have special “extras” for Legacy Winners – and will work to get additional shots and features of these bikes from the shows to showcase within the magazines and online.
Even if you’ve never participated in a Bike Show before, these shows are for you if you have a passion for your bike. Go ahead and bring her out – and PUT HER IN THE SHOW!
Make sure that you check out our events listing on Facebook and follow the ones that are of interest to you. We will be posting updates and more details about the new programs as things are finalized. www.Facebook.com/ReasonsToRide
Bike of the Nights!
As always, the RtR crew will be out and about hitting various Bike Nights, Rides, and other events throughout the upcoming riding season. At select events, our team and our partners will be recognizing one or two bikes as “BIKE OF THE NIGHT” as part of the 2024 Championship Bike Show Series –presented by Erskine Law.
The owners of these motorcycles will receive a special trophy and invitation to participate in an upcoming bike show – sponsored by the magazine. We will also be featuring some of these bikes in the magazine and / or online.
At some locations, such as Arsenal Harley-Davidson, Tavern of Independence, Artesian Wells, Fink’s, and Zeppe’s – we will be regularly presenting a BIKE OF THE NIGHT Trophy as part of their Bike Nights! Follow them or us on Facebook for more details!
If you’d like our crew to stop by your Bike Night or other event, just email us with details and contact information. Email us at Events@ ReasonsToRide.com
Thunder Zone Vendor Areas
For the larger weekend shows, we often host THUNDER ZONE Vendor areas as part of our layout. These vendor areas offer a tremendous opportunity to reach not only thousands of riders – but far more, as many of the events embrace the entire community, drawing attendees from throughout their regions. Many of our shows are part of rallies and events with more than 10,000 in attendance, several more than 50k, and even a few 100k plus! And for all of our Tour Stops – we work with vendors to ensure a seamless, successful experience. However, at most – space is limited! So, email us ASAP to get on the list and reserve your spots!
For a complete schedule and more information on vending at these events, email Email for information - Info@ReasonsToRide.comspots!
For a complete schedule and more information on vending at these events, email Email for information - Info@ReasonsToRide.com
RTR CHAMPIONSHIP BIKE SHOW SERIES
PRESENTED BY ERSKINE LAW
SOME OF THE UPCOMING 2024 SHOWS
We’re proud to present a diverse bike series with various locations and themes to our shows – making each one unique, yet all welcome all makes, models, and years. Our focus is on creating informal, fun shows that showcase builds and encourage others to participate.
Here are just a few of the upcoming shows on this year’s schedule. Check us out on Facebook for more information and additional dates!
Friday Night BIKES in Lapeer – BIKE SHOW
Downtown Lapeer Michigan, Friday, August 2nd, 2024
RtR Michigan is proud to host a BIKE SHOW as part of the FRIDAY NIGHT BIKE NIGHTS in downtown Lapeer Michigan. This is a community driven Bike Night hosted by the STEELE PATRIOTS RC, a group of riders dedicated to supporting local first responders and the surrounding communities. Sponsored in part by Ray C’s Harley-Davidson and Erskine Law – this show welcomes ALL MAKES, MODELS, and YEARS!
PRE-REGISTER – for a FREE T, LANYARD, and chance to score even more FREE SWAG!
FINKS BIKE SHOW 2024
INTERESTED IN HOSTING A RTR BIKE SHOW AT YOUR LOCATION IN 2024?
We are currently reviewing locations and locking down dates for our 2024 Bike Show Series.
We have a LIMITED NUMBER of dates available still. Email us TODAY for more information at BikeShowInfo@gmail.com
– RtR Team Members and Contributors
TOWN & COUNTRY / ARTESIAN WELLS BIKE SHOW 2nd YEAR!
Artesian Wells, Cement City, MI – Saturday, August 3rd, 2024
RtR Michigan is excited to return to Artesian Wells with the full Championship Bike Show Experience to showcase vintage and custom bikes at this great venue. With a newly expanded pavilion and great outdoor area, Artesian Wells is one of our favorite spots for Bike Nights and other events – and it’s right next door to Town & Country Harley-Davidson with their vintage motorcycle museum! If you’ve never been – this is certainly a great venue for a bike show and worth the ride from anywhere! Lots more to come on this show – be sure to check out the Facebook event page for more and updates as we get closer!
TAVERN OF INDEPENDENCE BIKE NIGHT BIKE SHOW
Tavern of Independence, Independence OH –Thursday, August 8th, 2024
The Cleveland area’s hottest new bike night is at TAVERN of INDEPENDENCE on Route 21 just south of the city, minutes from Valley View, the Eastside, and the Westside…. Live Music, great specials, and of course Reasons To Ride! And on August 8th – we are bringing the Championship Bike Show Series to kick things up a bit! All makes, models, years, and riders are welcome! Awards presented for all the standard classes – including the NEW Outstanding SOUND class! Register in advance for free swag and to learn more!
Register ONLINE at ReasonToRide.com for these Bike SHOWS and more! For more information, email us at BikeShowInfo@gmail.com and follow us online at www.Facebook.com/ReasonsToRide www.Facebook.com/RTRMichigan, or www.Facebook.com/RTROhio
Bike show photos by David Eggert, Dan Hare, and Tyler Roberts
FREEDOM BIKE SHOW 2nd YEAR!
Dick Scott’s Freedom Powersports, Livonia Michigan – Saturday, August 17th
Like all RtR Shows, all makes and models are invited – but this show has special categories to reflect the fact that it’s being hosted at a Triumph dealership. Special vintage categories – including European, Asian, and North American Motorcycles will be offered, as well as a special invitation for those having “old school” chopped Triumph’s! RtR photographers will also be on site, shooting for potential magazine features and to showcase the bikes being shown.
IRON PONY BIKE SHOW 7th YEAR!
Iron Pony Powersports, Westerville OH – Saturday, August 24th
The RTR Championship Bike Show Series returns to IRON PONY MOTORSPORTS – Central Ohio’s Motorcycle SUPERSTORE for the 7th Edition of the Iron Pony Custom & Classics Bike Show. Over the years this show has brought out a great mix of unique and seldom seen bikes from across the state – and even West Virginia and Indiana. The show also features a variety of vintage bikes – metric and domestic, and usually a few racers as well! And don’t miss the RIDE FOR RHINOS – held the next day!
14th ANNUAL GENEVA THUNDER ZONE
Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio – Saturday, September 9th
Our LONGEST RUNNING show, produced by the Iron Cowboy Crew – is this annual celebration of Iron and Creativity overlooking Lake Erie. Each year we add something new and each year the show GROWS! Last year we awarded the THUNDER ZONE CHAMPIONSHIP BELT – and it returns again this year! But who will take it home? The competition is ALWAYS steep as well over 100 vintage and custom show bikes on display at one of the largest ride-in bike shows anywhere.
These are just a few that we’ve already locked down, but we have A LOT more in the works! Make sure that you’re following us on Facebook ( www.Facebook.com/ReasonsToRide) for updates as they are announced.
*Tentative dates. Date and details to be finalized and will be announced in future editions of RTR, on our Facebook pages, or at ReasonsToRide.com
Thunder On The Strip 2024
The THUNDER ZONE Returns to
Friday, September 6th – Sunday, September 8th
The Landing and Sunset Bar: 5475 Lake Road, Geneva-On-The-Lake, OH
While Ohio Bike Week is Ohio’s Rally and kicks off the riding season for many, Thunder On The Strip is a true “Biker Homecoming” for thousands as they wind down after a summer of riding and head into the Fall / “offseason”. What started as a way to stretch the season out one more weekend – and maybe blow out the final inventory before this historic resort town winds down at the end of summer – has evolved into a celebration of great music and the riding lifestyle. It’s a great chance to catch up and party with riding friends from across the state, before things start to get cold. The local, community driven rally is one of our all time favorites and has been a mainstay on our schedule since it started more than 15 years ago – before we even had the magazines!
Over the years the Rally has evolved and our “Thunder Zone” has moved down the street to the Marketplace Landing, adjacent to the Old Firehouse Winery and Sunset Bar. Friday through Sunday, we host a relaxed party with live music, vendors, and plenty of bike parking right on America’s North Coast – overlooking Lake Erie. It’s an amazing location with one of the best views on the Strip – especially as the sun sets over the lake. During the day, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the park like setting – even rolling out a blanket alongside your bike. You can’t beat it. There’s even a historic Ferris Wheel that overlooks the lake!
Iron & Ink TATTOO PARTY
Friday, Sept 6th Sunset Bar / Thunder Zone 6-9pm
Social & Registration, followed by Voting / Judging –and then Awards!
It’s a TATTOO PARTY for anyone with ink or an appreciation for it!
Reasons To Ride Ohio will once again be hosting an IRON & INK TATTOO PARTY as part of this year's THUNDER ZONE in Geneva-on-the-Lake. This is an informal contest – offering prizes for both those exhibiting their ink and the artists that did the work! Additionally, the party has an interactive format, that allows folks to see the work being showcased up-close. Participants and guests get to vote on their favorite work and possibly win some prizes! Prizes include custom trophies and placards for both the participants and artists participating, and raffle prizes for those voting!
Photographers will also be on-site from Iron & Ink The Magazine and Reasons To Ride Ohio to photograph some of the work shown and showcase it in both the magazines and online with full recognition of both the exhibitor and the artist / shop. This is not only a great opportunity to show off your work a little – but also to help support your artist.
Register in advance to reserve your spot and get a FREE T-Shirt – on Facebook or through ReasonsToRide.com.
Local tattoo shops are encouraged to participate in the shows and invite their customers out to showcase the work being done by their artists. Special recognition and prizes are awarded to shops having more than 4 customers and at least 1 artist on hand for the contest. (Shops should register in advance by emailing – BikeShowInfo@gmail.com
14th Annual Thunder Zone Vintage & Custom BIKE SHOW
Saturday, September 7th 11am – 5pm at The Thunder Zone! at The Landing / Sunset Bar
This show has exploded at the new location, with space to accommodate hundreds of show bikes in one of the most amazing settingS – in the midst of one of the greatest motorcycle events, anywhere! All makes and models, vintage and modern, import and domestic – all are invited and encouraged to attend. It’s a relatively informal, ride-in bike show with attendees voting for their favorite bikes. There are weighted judges ballots, but the exhibitors and ballots cast really determine who gets the trophies. More than 15 potential classes, including special MILITARY THEMED and Patriotic classes, Custom Paint, Performance Racing Classes and more.
Register in advance at ReasonsToRideOhio.com to reserve your space and get a FREE T-Shirt! Follow the event on Facebook, for more information and updates!
RTR KING OF THE HILL SOUND COMPETITION –Open Challenge, 1:30 play – CASH PRIZES!
Following the Bike Show Awards.
Pre-register online to guarantee your spot.
NEW THIS YEAR: CMA ASSISTANCE in the LOT and SUNDAY SERVICE / BLESSING!
RtR is proud to welcome the Christian Motorcyclist Association to Geneva-on-the-Lake as they join in the fun, helping to host the Landing Area – assisting with parking and supervision throughout the area. Join us at 10am at THE LANDING for a special Sunday Service, overlooking the water – followed by a Bike Blessing! All are welcome to attend this non-denominational service.
Wrangling Two Snakes on 2 Wheels:
The Story of Southeast Kentucky’s First Two State Recognized Motorcycle Routes
Backroads of Appalachia: Bringing it All Together for a Region
In last month’s article, we introduced you to the origin story of our first two Southeastern Kentucky “Viper” themed trail routes, which are an absolute must-ride for anyone visiting our region. This month, in part 2 of this series, we’ll share the rest of our organization’s story and how our nonprofit mission evolved to help an entire region recover from years of economic downturn.
The Loss of the Coal Industry
When the coal industry left our region, it didn’t leave much behind for the people of Central Appalachia. For many generations, coal mining had been their livelihood. The impact of this loss was felt across the entire “Coal Belt,” from Pennsylvania to North Carolina. With no industry to replace this loss, many once-thriving areas were left with nothing but memories and remnants of their coal mining lineage. For over 25 years, many small towns have struggled, with main street businesses now boarded up and closed. This loss made the states we serve some of the poorest in the U.S., and they remain so to this day.
The Hidden Gem Left Behind By Coal: Our Roads!
What the coal industry left behind is precisely what makes our region and our riding experiences second to none: our roads! Most of the backroads and rural routes here were originally built to reach the coal and the remote communities that mined it. Unlike other areas in the U.S., these roads were often built to go over the mountains rather than around them. Some, like the Dingess Tunnel in West Virginia, were even built to go through them, often dug by hand many years ago. Yes, you can ride through these tunnels, but they are just one of many great features to experience on your ride. Now, you might wonder what makes these roads so special. Do they really offer “The Best Riding in the U.S.! Period!”? How can we make those claims? Is it all just hype? As a fellow rider, I can assure you it’s absolutely the truth. We have ridden just about everywhere you can go, including
some other countries. Still not convinced? Let’s delve into what makes these roads and their surroundings so incredible to ride and see if we can change your mind.
The Story of The Dragonslayer HWY 160
Among the many DRAGON-themed trails in the motorcycle world, the Dragonslayer HWY 160 was created to “slay them” all. This route goes over Kentucky’s highest mountain and was founded in 2018 in the historic town of Lynch, Kentucky, by BOA Executive Director Erik Hubbard, with support from the local community. The mission was and still is to bring economic development to Lynch and the surrounding areas through motorsports tourism and events.
The Historic Town of Lynch, Kentucky
Before we SLAY this dragon, let’s explore the incredible history of Lynch, which enhances this overall experience. Located in Harlan County and home to the Portal 31 Coal Mine Tour, Lynch was once the largest coal camp in the world, with the Portal 31 Coal Mine being the largest coalproducing mine globally. Built by Italian stonemasons brought in by the U.S. Steel in the early 1900s, Lynch once had a population of over 10,000 people from 38 different countries living and working there. Today, this historic town sadly has only about 600 residents, many of whom are descendants of those original miners.
What makes Lynch so special? The entire town and all its buildings still stand, allowing visitors to experience how people lived and worked by touring the Portal 31 Coal Mine. Lynch, Kentucky, is a magical place and truly the heart of Kentucky’s coal mining history and is absolutely a mustvisit on its own. Now that we’ve covered a little history, let’s talk about one of the most badass rides you can take here and certainly one of the most beautiful.
From Slaying Dragons in Lynch to Helping an Entire Region
After the popularity of the Dragonslayer HWY 160 began to grow, Backroads of Appalachia, the organization, began to take shape. A Board of Directors was formed in 2019, creating the 501-C3 nonprofit you see
today! The Dragonslayer HWY 160 Welcome Center was opened in Lynch in 2020 in a small makeshift bank teller’s booth to offer visitors some sweet Dragonslayer HWY 160 merchandise and, of course, the history of this amazing town. Unfortunately, at the same time, Covid-19 came to Kentucky but ended up being a blessing in disguise for the Dragonslayer HWY 160 as there is no better way to practice social distancing than on a motorcycle or in a sports car!
As the word began to get out and the motorsports world began to respond, things were made even better on the Slayer in 2021 by adding brand new pavement! When you combine that with over 200 curves and a 55 MPH limit, you have yourself one of the best rides you will find anywhere! Period! Sure, there are other popular routes out there, and we love them all, but this is the highest peak in Kentucky, and if you are not riding mountains, then you're not riding. Black Mountain also happens to be home to many black bears, which can often be seen while riding or driving this beast of a route, and the overlooks will blow your mind! We ride it here locally all the time, and it never gets old to us or anyone else, with many riders returning each year to take on the mountain and visit us at The Dragonslayer HWY 160 Welcome Center. You can see this when you sign our “BOA Wall of Fame” there, which includes signatures from riders and drivers from all over the world, many of whom are repeat visitors. There are also many other routes surrounding the Dragonslayer HWY 160 designed to showcase this amazing area to ride, such as the Slingshot, Little Shepherd Trail, The Backbreaker, Coal Train 421, and many more! Backroads of Appalachia: Creating a Regional Mission from Humble Beginnings
As our organization began to grow, so did our motorsports community and supporters. The original mission to help Lynch and the surrounding areas began to take shape as riders and drivers started to discover what we already knew: there is nothing like our roads, our scenery, and our people! Economic development through motorsports tourism was working on the trails BOA had created on the east side of the state while other established routes such as Copperhead Trail KY and the Rattlesnake 192 were gaining momentum and traffic west. As these trails were created by their respective counties, it was obvious that everything should be brought
together into a regional mission that would not only bring needed economy to the small towns and their small businesses on Main Street Appalachia but would also showcase our region in a way that had never been done before, with our focus being motorsports tourism and events. After all, this is truly the “Last Unexplored Frontier on the East Coast” and a motorsports lover's dream come true.
The Whitley County Motorcycle Group joined Backroads of Appalachia, bringing the east and west parts of Southeastern Kentucky together into a full-blown motorsports initiative uniting all riders under one regional mission! Shortly thereafter, our Backroads of Appalachia mobile application was created thanks to a generous grant from the USDA, and many other great trails were developed to help specifically designed to reach even more towns and communities while also showcasing our “Uniquely Appalachian” points of interest. Currently, there are 50+ trail routes in our app covering over 5,000 miles and crossing four Central Appalachia states across the old Coal Belt, all GPS-enabled and requiring no cell phone signal!
There are so many things we have left out as we simply do not have the space here and this is obviously a very condensed version of our story. You can find out more about our unique organization by visiting our BOA Mobile Trailer at the Thunderdome at the 84th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally or visit our website at www.backroadsofappalachia.org/about. You can also visit us on Facebook as well as join our all volunteer WCMG Public Group! Do not forget to give our pages a like and follow us! We also recommend you download our Backroads of Appalachia Mobile Application to find all our events and start your Appalachian Adventure Today! Everything we do is created by our local community and improved by you the Rider and your input! When you ride here you are riding the absolute best that our Region has to offer while also helping each town you stop in! Let’s Review and see if we have answered the question we had early in this article. Is it the “Best Riding in the U.S.! Period!”? Absolutely but do not take our word for it.... Come and find out for yourself by visiting us this season right here on the Backroads of Appalachia! You will be glad you did!
Let’s Ride Appalachia!
Jay "Frydaddy" Fryman, Founder, Whitley County Motorcycle Group
8/02/24 09:00 AM
2024 CVMA® IV Rally
Holiday Inn - Independence 6001 Rockside Rd., Independence, OH, 44131 US
8/02/24 05:30 PM
Friday Night Bikes in Lapeer Bike Show
Downtown Lapeer
101 S Weadock Ave, Saginaw, MI 48607
8/03/24 12:00 PM
3rd Annual Ride To End Alzheimer's Route 30 Harley-Davidson 350 Tarhe Trail, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351
8/3/2024 11:00
Town & Country Bike Show 2024
Town and Country Harley Davidson 18711 US Highway 12, Cement City, MI 49233
8/04/24 01:00 PM
Home Brewed Bikes
Stones Throw Brewing 101 Button Hall Ave, Goose Creek, SC
8/04/24 12:00 AM
Nostalgia Outlaw Racing
Milan Dragway 10860 Plank Rd, Milan, MI 48159
8/04/24 08:00 AM
Walnecks Motorcycle Swap Meet- Springfield Ohio
Walneck's Motorcycle Swap Meet 4401 S. Charleston Pike Springfield, Oh 45502
8/04/24 11:00 AM
Paul Meyers Sr. Ride
Southeast Harley Davidson 23105 Aurora Rd Cleveland, Oh 44146
8/07/24 06:00 PM
BIKE NIGHT with Lavish Arsenal Harley Davidson 4405 Highland Rd (M-59) Waterford, MI 48328
8/8/2024 18:00 Bike Night, Bike Show and BBQ Night Tavern of Independence 5530 Brecksville Road Independence, OH 44131
8/9/2024
Fink's Tattoo Party
Fink's Harley-Davidson 2650 Maysville Pike, Zanesville, OH 43701-9717
8/09/24 12:00 AM
Indian Bike Week
River's Edge Apple River Campground 1820 Raleigh Rd, New Richmond, WI 54017
8/09/24 06:00 PM
City of Lapeer's Friday Night Bikes Downtown Lapeer W. Nepessing St.
8/09/24 06:00 PM
Bike Night Davison Eagles Davison Eagles 3589 3270 N State Rd
8/10/24 10:00 AM
Chief's Chicken Run
Ten Mile Inn
7229 W. Broad St Galloway, Oh 43119
8/10/24 12:00 AM
Motor City Get Down
Modern Skate & Surf
1500 N Stephenson Hwy Royal Oak, MI 48067
8/10/24 10:00 AM
DOVE (Domestic Violence Escape) & Poker Run
Lost & Found
6 Nimkon St., Gile, WI 54525
8/10/24 10:00 AM
Ohio Fallen Heroes Memorial Ride Farrow Harley-Davidson 7754 E OH-37, Sunbury, OH 43074
8/11/24 09:00 AM
52nd Annual Centurion Poker Run
Greater Akron Motorcycle Club 1540 Smith Road, Akron OH 44313
8/13/24 06:00 PM
Knights of the Inferno Arrowhead Chapter
Cancun Mexican Bar & Grill
3350 Village Dr Middletown, Oh 45005
8/13/24 06:00 PM
Knights of Inferno BIKE NIGHT at CANCUN Middletown OH
Cancun Mexican Bar & Grill
3350 Village Dr, Middletown, OH 45005
8/14/24 6:00PM IRON & INK BIKE NIGHT
Tattoo Party
Zeppe's Tavern 11110 Kinsman Rd Newbury, Oh 44065
8/16/23 09:00 AM
Thunder at the River
Little River Casino
2700 Orchard Highway, Manistee, MI 49660
8/17/24 06:00 PM Route 30 Rumble
Wyandot County Fairgrounds 10171 OH-53 North, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351
8/17/2024 11:00 Freedom Bike Show
Dick Scott Freedom Powersport 29577 Five Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48154
8/17/24 10:00 AM
The Justin Shilling Foundation Annual Poker Run
American Legion Walter Fraser post 108 130 E Drahner Rd, Oxford, MI 48371
8/17/24 09:30 AM
BIKERS for BIBLES 12th Street Baptist Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009
8/17/24 08:30 AM Run Supporting the VETERANS and PEDIATRICS
One More Grill 1830 142nd Ave, Dorr, MI 49323
8/18/24 11:00 AM Bikers for Boobs
Southeast Harley Davidson 23105 Aurora Rd Cleveland, Oh 44146
8/21/24 06:00 PM
BIKE NIGHT with Lavish
Arsenal Harley Davidson 4405 Highland Rd (M-59) Waterford, MI 48328
8/22/2024 18:00 IRON & INK Tattoo Party
Artesian Wells Sports Tavern 18755 US Highway 12, Cement City, MI 49233-9556
8/23/24 12:00 AM
6th Annual Ohio Vintage Nationals Drag Racing & Swap
Freebird Dragway
2107 Friendship Park Rd Bloomingdale, Oh 43910
Visit us on Facebook or for up to the minute event listings, ReasonsToRide.com
8/23/24 06:00 PM
City of Lapeer's Friday Night Bikes Downtown Lapeer W. Nepessing St.
8/23/24 06:00 PM
Bike Night Davison Eagles Davison Eagles 3589 3270 N State Rd
8/24/24 12:00 AM
Nostalgia Outlaw Racing
Ubly Dragway 4812 S Ubly Rd, Ubly, MI 48475
8/24/24 05:00 PM
Bother's Keeper MC Chapter 46 Bike Night
DJ's Pizza & Steak House 805 W Main St Woodbury,TN 37190
8/24/2024 11:00
Iron Pony 7th Annual Custom & Classics Bike Show Iron Pony
5472 Westerville Rd, \Westerville, OH 43081
8/24/24 10:00 AM
BIKERS AGAINST CHILD ABUSE CHARITY RIDE
Arsenal Harley Davidson
4405 Highland Rd (M-59) \Waterford, MI 48328
8/24/24 10:00 AM
Loco Blue Poker Run and Steak Fry Elyria VFW 500 South Abbe Rd, Elyria OH 44035
8/24/24 04:00 PM
CARNIVAL of SINS
47MC Clubhouse
4780 Warner Rd, Cleveland OH 44125
8/25/2024 9:30 Ride for the Rhinos
Iron Pony Motorsports 5436 Westerville Rd, Westerville, OH 43081
8/29/24 09:00 AM
Easyriders Rodeo 2024
Smokin' Cole Farms 4565 South SR-19 \Bloomville, OH 44818
8/31/24 12:00 PM
23rd Anniversary Iron Horse
Flight 93 Poker Run Iron Horse Saloon
8/31/24 10:00 AM
Hudson Leather Motorcycle Stampede
Hudson Leather 14700 SR 15 Pioneer
9/06/24 06:00 PM
Bike Night Davison Eagles
Davison Eagles 3589 3270 N State Rd
9/06/24 06:00 PM
Geneva Thunder Zone
Iron and Ink Tattoo Party
The Sunset Bar 5483 Lake Rd, Geneva, OH 44041-9425
9/07/24 12:00 AM
2024 Justen Caris Memorial Poker Run
Justen Caris Memorial Foundation 7085 County Rd 67 Gibsonburg, Oh 43431
9/07/24 12:00 PM
Thunder Zone Vintage and Custom Bike Show
The Landing Festival Marketplace 5481 Lake Rd E, Geneva, OH 44041
9/07/24 09:30 AM
Motorcycle Ride For Veterans Harley Davidson of Xenia 1213 Cincinnati Ave, Xenia, OH 45385
9/07/24 11:00 AM
Templar Order MC OH-171 and AngelWorks Crusade Against Pediatric Cancer
Templar Order MC Ohio CLXXI
75 W Johnstown Rd, \Columbus, OH 43230
9/08/24 01:00 PM
Home Brewed Bikes
Stones Throw Brewing
101 Button Hall Ave, Goose Creek, SC 29445
9/10/24 06:00 PM
Knights of Inferno BIKE NIGHT at CANCUN Middletown OH
Cancun Mexican Bar & Grill 3350 Village Dr Middletown, OH 45005
9/11/24 06:00 PM
BIKE NIGHT with Lavish Arsenal Harley Davidson 4405 Highland Rd (M-59) Waterford, MI 48328
9/13/24 12:00 AM
Louisiana State Rally and Bayou Branding
Cajun Heritgae RV Park 2026 Atchafalaya River Highway Breaux Bridge, LA 70517
9/14/24 09:00 AM
Greater Akron MC HOT RODS & HANDLEBARS
Greater Akron Motorcycle Club 1540 Smith Road, Akron OH 44313
9/15/24 10:00 AM
20th Annual Breast Fest of Cincinnati
Yeager-Benson Memorial American Legion Post 199
10700 Campbell Rd, Harrison, OH 45030
9/19/24 6:00PM
IRON & INK Bike Night Tattoo Party
Tavern of Independence 5530 Brecksville Road Independence, OH 44131
9/20/24 06:00 PM
Bike Night Davison Eagles Davison Eagles 3589 3270 N State Rd
9/21/24 12:00 PM
3rd Annual Dayton Vintage Motorcycle Show
Rip Rap Roadhouse
6024 Rip Rap Rd, Dayton, OH 45424
9/28/24 05:00 PM
Bother's Keeper MC Chapter 46 Bike Night
DJ's Pizza & Steak House 805 W Main St Woodbury,TN 37190
Visit us on Facebook or for up to the minute event listings, ReasonsToRide.com
Muskigum MI
WEEKLY BIKE NIGHTS
Monday
The Otter Lake Bar Otter Lake MI
Tuesday
10th St. Saloon Plainwell MI
Backroads Holly MI
Clair Tavern Clarington OH
Comet Bike Night Cincinnati OH
Flo's Pizzeria & Sports Bar Greenville MI
Hunter Street Saloon Logan OH
Jilly's Saloon Reynoldsburg OH
Mug Shotz Clio MI
Pez'z Bar n Grill Sheffield Lake OH
Ryders Bar & Grill Midland MI
Shielded Souls New Boston MI
Sturgis Michigan Sturgis MI
Whiskey Jar Brown City MI
Wednesday
American Legion Riders Owosso Owosso MI
Cheers Lapeer Lapeer MI
Countryside Inn Byron Center MI
J&D's Place Worthington OH
Jimmy's Roadhouse Paw Paw MI
The Oaks Tavern Moscow MI
QSL Milford Milford OH
Quaker Steak & Lube Columbus OH
Rip Rap Roadhouse Dayton OH
Roadhouse 19 Yale MI
Tavern 62 Orient OH
The Horsehoe Bar Bucyrus OH
The Villa Huber Heights OH
VFW #1181- Valley Station Louisville KY
Zeppe's Tavern Newbury OH
OTHER BIKE NIGHTS
Every 2nd Tuesday Knights of the Inferno BIKE NIGHT Middletown OH
Last Wed of Every Month Marine Corp League Licoln Park MI
Third Wed of Each Month Wayland Michigan, Downtown Wayland MI
Last Thurs of the Month Cincinnati Euro Bike Night CEBN Loveland OH
Every Other Friday Davison Eagles Bike Night Davison MI
Third Sat of every month. Northern Yankee Moonshine Ripley OH
Every 1st and 3rd Sun Crazy Fox Saloon Bucyrus OH
Thursday
Root's Pub St. Mary's OH
Amy's Downtown Reservoir Columbiaville MI
Artesian Wells Cement City MI
Bearded Saddle Saloon Oxford OH
The Dock at Bayview Richland MI
Double D's Pub Columbus OH
Doughboys Pizza and Pub Commercial Point OH
Farmer's Tavern Mulliken MI
Freddy's Clinton Township MI
Hide Out Grill Walton KY
The Max Bar and Grill Logan OH
Mill Dam Corner Grill Hebron OH Pleasant Lake Pub Pleasant Lake MI
QSL Colerain Cincinnati OH
The Hideout Bar & Grill Elsmere KY
The Shark Club Waterford Township MI
Solid Gold Lounge Brookpark OH
Stingers Bar & Grill Wixom MI
Ugly Mug Canal Winchester OH
Wild Mike's Battle Creek MI
Friday
Iron Horse Saloon Burton OH
The Roadhouse Bar & Grill Livonia MI
Friday Night Bikes Lapeer MI
Smitty's Tavern New Holland OH
Saturday
Akron Bible Church Akron OH
Ta' Bogo Cafe Cincinnati OH
RECIPES
Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
Ingredients
• 1 pound cooked ground beef
• 16 ounces dried ziti
• 2 jars pasta sauce
• 2 eggs
• 15 ounces tomato sauce
• 15 ounces ricotta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 2 cups shredded parmesan
• ⅓ cup basil
Instructions
• Mix the eggs, ricotta and basil in one bowl and the tomato sauce and pasta sauce in another.
• Grease the crockpot then add 2⅓ cups of the sauce mixture.
• Add about a third of the ziti.
• Spoon the ricotta on top and spread it out.
• Sprinkle half the parmesan on top.
• Spoon the beef on top.
• Add more sauce then pasta and then ricotta.
• Finish layering with the parmesan and remaining sauce.
• Cover the crockpot and cook for 2 or 3 hours on high or until the ziti is tender.
• Sprinkle a little mozzarella on top and allow it 5 minutes to melt, then serve hot.
EASY FRIED CHEESE BITES
Ingredients :
• 10 oz mozzarella string cheese (or 10 sticks)
• 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
• 1 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions :
• Take out a cutting board and cut your string cheese sticks into bite size pieces.
• In a medium sized bowl, add your eggs and whisk to break them up. Add the milk and whisk again to incorporate the two ingredients.
• Set aside two additional bowls. Fill one with your flour and the next with your bread crumbs. Place the bowl with your eggs and milk mixture in the middle of that line, so that you now have three bowls in a row (flour, eggs, bread crumbs).
• Take one piece of mozzarella. Dip it in the flour, then immediately in the egg mixture. Now, roll your cheese bite around in the bread crumbs. Continue to do this until you have all the pieces of cheese coated. You can place each finished piece on a plate once they are completed.
• In a medium sized skillet, heat your vegetable oil (about 2 inches high) to 350 degrees. (To test this, place a wooden spoon handle in the oil. If the bubbles are rolling on the handle, you're ready.)
• Pull out a plate and line it with a paper towel.
• Add 5-7 pieces into the oil for about 30 seconds. Make sure that you keep them separated so that they don't bond together!
• Fry your mozzarella bites until they are golden brown (which should be at that 30 second mark). Using a slotted spoon, remove your pieces from the oil and place them on the paper towels.
• Repeat this process with different batches until all of your bites are fried.
• Serve immediately with pasta sauce or just eat them by themselves!
Have a recipe that you’d like to share? Write it all down and send with a picture – to ReasonsToRide@gmail.com Put RECIPE in the subject line. If we use it, we’ll send you copies of the magazines and a RtR T-Shirt – so include your address and t-shirt size as well! Thanks!
SPONSOR DIRECTORY
WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL OF OUR SPONSORS THAT HELP MAKE THIS MAGAZINE POSSIBLE. IT IS ONLY WITH THEIR SUPPORT AND COMMITMENT THAT WE CAN PRODUCE WHAT WE BELIEVE TO BE THE FINEST REGIONAL MOTORCYCLE PUBLICATION IN THE NATION.
3rd Gear Motorcycle Speed Shop.................... 32
ARSENAL HARLEY-DAVIDSON MI 17, 46
Artesian Wells 13
Backroads of Appalachia KY ........................ 40-41
Bair's Powersports OH 38
Bear's Vintage Metalworks 5
Christian Motorcycles Association OH...............16
Cowboy Creamery OH 16
Dick Scott Powersports MI ...................................19
Easyriders Rodeo OH & MI 42
Erskine Law Rear Cover
Fink's Harley-Davidson Tattoo Party OH ........... 35
Freedom Powersports Bike Show MI 23, 26
Geneva Thunder Zone 1, 23, 27, 3
Hard Tales Magazine ........................................ 48
Leather OH
Pony ................................................................ 2
Pony Bike Show OH 23-24, I-X Center Piston Power Show OH 61 Johnny's Grill & Pizzeria OH .............................. 57
Lapeer Friday Bike Nights 22, 54 MSTA 18-19 Nutra Relief OH/MI ............................................ 36 Old Firehouse Winery OH 57 Pony Powersports OH 3 Progressive OH .................................... Inside Cover
