Reasons To Ride Great Lakes Vol4 Issue 9

Great Lakes Motorcycle Magazine Powered by ReasonsToRide.com

Great Lakes Motorcycle Magazine Powered by ReasonsToRide.com

FROM THE EDITOR

Merry Christmas!

As a Christian – this is an especially important time of year for me. As an American and an active member of the riding community –this is a time of brotherhood and good will, regardless of faith or religious belief.

We strongly believe that while our bikes embody the spirit and passion we all share, it’s the sense of camaraderie and brotherhood that really defines what it means to be a member of the riding community.

Outsiders rarely get it. Some believe that we all just like throwing on the leather and playing dress-up. Some folks wonder if it’s something shady – as if we’re all a part of some secret society. As if being a rider enters us into some sort of cult. Maybe it does, in some way.

Companies and self-serving promoters often try to appeal to riders by simply posing on a motorcycle. They try to sugarcoat their sales pitch with leather and a sprinkling of V-twin images, but we usually see through that. It doesn’t take long for riders to recognize when we are getting smoke blown up – and when we are hearing from someone that really understands.

For instance, we are proud to welcome Michigan Biker Law (MichiganBiker.com) as a new PRESENTING SPONSOR of Reasons To Ride. While they may have billboards, I don’t really know – but I KNOW that they serve the riding community because I’ve seen them out on the road. I’ve seen their booths out at rallies and rides, and I’ve seen their representatives out talking to riders.

And it’s through the support of companies such as them – that we can offer this magazine to you for FREE!

They get it. Not only do they help support rides and charity events all across the region – they sponsor us, so that we can help promote those same events and the causes they represent. And together, we can help hundreds of organizations and thousands of events engage hundreds of thousands of riders. It’s a pretty cool system. This time of year, many of us have our bikes put away. That doesn’t mean we aren’t still RIDERS.

We’re still riders, bikers, or enthusiasts – whatever you’d like to call yourself; and more importantly we are all still BROTHERS and SISTERS. We are still a riding community – bikes or not.

And this time of year we come together to help those in need and maybe make things a little brighter for others. We say Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, or even Happy Festivus – or simply “Hello” to total strangers as we pass with a smile.

I’d charge you all to make sure you take things a step further, though. Please make an effort to make a difference. Do something to help a charity or serve those in need. If you’re not sure of how or what, visit one of our designated charities RoadsOfHope.org. Our brother, Dr. Joe Savage, is saving orphans in Moldava and war torn Ukraine. Regardless of the politics and the billions in military equipment we are sending over – these kids could use some help. Visit the website and maybe make a donation. Even if it’s just $10 – you can help make a difference. That warm feeling you get inside, might just be the next best thing to riding this time of year! ��

We hope that you enjoy this magazine, have a wonderful holiday seasons – and a Merry Christmas!

Sincerely, T. Roberts

Sr.

Editor Reasons To Ride

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HOW TO ENTER YOUR EVENTS ONLINE

The cornerstone of everything we do is our motorcycle event listings. While we spend a lot of time on the pretty pictures and the articles, it’s really all the events that bring people to ReasonsToRide! When you boil it all down, motorcycles are a mode of transportation – and we are always looking for places to go… reasons to ride! Even when we there’s a foot of snow outside and we can’t bring ourselves to ride the bikes – we still want to hang out with other riders.

And if you’re hosting an event – you want to get it listed here and connect with the more than 300,000 riders we reach every month! It’s a pretty easy process, and gets even easier once you’ve gone through it. However, it may seem intimidating at first – so, we’ve decided to take it step by step here. All these steps may seem like a lot listed here, but it’s really just “clicking here, clicking there”…. And once you’ve done it, you’ll fly through it the next time!

• Get your information and materials together. This would be all of the details on your event, including where, what and when. If you have graphics, photos, or, most importantly a flyer – you’ll want to have those available on your computer to upload as well when asked.

• Go to ReasonsToRide.com or your state’s specific page, ie. ReasonsToRideOhio.com or ReasonsToRideMichigan.com for example. From this page you’ll want to select “Add Your Event”. It’s located several different places on the page, including at the very top right or in the center of the main page.

This will then take you to a page that includes various options for listing your event(s) online. These are primarily Basic Event Listings, Featured Event Listings, and Featured Event w/ Ride Registration. Each of these options is listed with what they include underneath and the costs associated with each.

If you’re with a CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION (501c3) or hosting a NON-PROFIT EVENT, we have special discounted rates for Events. You can scroll down the page for these. These discounts are subject to approval.

Once you select which option you want to go with, you want to click “List Your Event Now”. This will take you to the form for your event.

If you have an account as an Event Organizer, you’ll want to sign in at the top of the page. If you haven’t done this already – you’ll have a chance to register as an Organizer later in the form.

• Now, just go through the form and enter the information for your event. A few notes –

o Event Type – go with the primary classification. Most events will qualify for multiple, and you’ll have a chance to add more later.

o Event Icon – this is your event flyer, if you have one. If you do not, you can upload a photo from past event or a logo for your organization here.

o Event Banner – this is for the space at the top of your event listing. It’s a horizontal space, and you can use the “Event Header” image from your facebook event if you’d like. Or you can use a photo of the event from past years or a logo here as well, if you’d like. (This is reserved for Feature Events)

o Event Description - Include the basic detail on your event here. Don’t repeat details such as date or times, that are listed elsewhere. However, you can include KSU and Bike in times, if you’d like. Basic Event Listings allow approx. 150 characters. Feature listings allow approx. 300 in the magazine listings and unlimited online.

o Event Dates / Times – you must fill in all of these. Even if you don’t have an “end time” in mind, just give an approximation. If it goes “all night” – or no end time in mind, just select 11:30PM. This will keep the event on the one day and not show it on two.

• Add Tickets / Rider Registration to your Event. This will allow online registration or ticket sales for your event. There is information on this and all it has to offer on the website. You can also email us for more information. It’s really a great system, and we often have sponsors that will cover

events to be grouped together and for you to sign back in to make changes,

Once you’ve entered all of your event information, you can preview the event listing and select other options for it. Once you’ve reviewed what you’ve entered, completed you’ll be directed to PayPal to pay for your event listing. We use PayPal to provide safe and secure, third party CC processing.

Your event is then reviewed and approved by the system, it will be shown on the ReasonsToRide.com websites and come up in searches. If you are in a region or state that has a partner publication, it may also be printed within the magazine – space allowing. These Print placements are done as space allows and are subject to secondary approval by the magazine editors. If you have a paid or feature placement, your event should appear in the magazine as long as it has been entered by the 15th of the month prior to it being held. If you have a paid / feature placement, you can confirm this by emailing Events@ReasonsToRide.

Again, it sounds complicated – but it’s really just a common sense process once

Please note – that the earlier you get your listing up, the more people will see it! So as soon as you get your date set and details worked out – post it up!

YOU HAVE A CHANCE TO WIN THIS WORLD

at our Feature Ride n Win Ride Stops in 2023

Stay tuned for more information here in the pages of Reasons To Ride, or you can always visit the RtR blogs at www.ReasonsToRide.com for updates and a full overview of the program. For information on how you can become a 2023 Ride n’ Win Ride Stop –email us at Info@ReasonsToRide.com

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MOTORCYCLE MINISTRIES

MARY GILBERT, CMA STATE COORDINATOR

Anticipation…

Seems our lives are spent with a lot of time periods of wanting and waiting. This time of year, especially! Long lines in stores as we hustle around looking for the ultimate gifts for our loved ones, even if we are not particularly shopping for the gifts, we still are found waiting in those lines with our regular shopping! Maybe we should just do it all online! Oh…sorry, I got in my head a little bit there…

Waiting isn’t easy, is it? So many times, personally, I have asked the Lord to take care of something and felt like I let it go, but there I am again…trying to figure out how to fix it. In Psalms 21:1-2 it says, “The king shall have joy in Your strength, oh Lord, and in Your salvation how greatly shall he rejoice! You have given him his heart’s desire and have not withheld the request of his lips.” Then after these verses is a little word, Selah, which means to pause and think about that.

Now when you think about it, just like any other thought, you can bring life to it. When you bring life to it, you can apply it to your self and believe it and when you believe it, things will begin to happen that you never thought possible! It is God’s desire to give us the desires of our heart, but we sometimes must be patient for the perfect timing of these things to come to pass. A child isn’t born without going through the birthing process, a house isn’t lived in without first being built, and a motorcycle isn’t ridden until it comes out of the factory completely put together. So it is with even the smallest details and situations of our lives. We just simply must learn how to be patient in the waiting. And some times waiting some more and a little bit more…tap…tap…tap. You get it. But look at what develops in the waiting. Well, besides patience, there’s strength, endurance, self-control, faith and when the day comes and the answer is there, or the problem solved or the provision is met…a flood of relief comes crashing down like the Hoover Dam just broke loose and you are dancing in the overflow! So, the waiting, while a little testy at times, is still worth it because the outcome is always better than what we could ever ask or think!

When I was in the 6th grade, I wanted Go-Go boots (showing my age here) for Christmas. It’s all I asked for, and being the youngest of six kids, third girl, I always had my sisters hand me downs in everything! I thought Christmas would never get here! Finally… Christmas morning, as I opened my gifts, I not only got the boots, but I got my very first complete outfit! Jacket, slacks, skirt, and

blouse! Thin corduroy, dark purple with flowers! I was in heaven and let me tell you ‘Miss These Boots Were Made for Walkin’ had met her match!! Do you see? The outcome was better than what I could ever have anticipated! So, here’s the bottom line…Every word written in the Bible is there for us. Every promise written and spoken by God is there for us. Nothing written in the word of God is to be taken as just a story or as meant for another. It is meant for you, and it’s meant for me. We just have to be patient enough to wait for Him to bring every thing He has for us to pass at just the right time so that we don’t get too far ahead of where we need to be or so that we don’t hurt ourselves in the process.

Just a little bit of Jesus ‘n’ ME Wishing you a Very Merry Christmas from the Gilbert Household!

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

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Holiday Gift Ideas

Here’s a list of Christmas gift suggestions from the Editors of Reasons To Ride for any riders in your life.

Give the Gift of REASONS TO RIDE!

Of course, the ideal gift for any Ohio motorcycle enthusiast is their own personal subscription to Reasons To Ride!

Each month we will ship a copy of the magazine directly to their home, office, or shop - whatever they would like. While others are scrambling to make sure they get theirs before they disappear from the local shops, your lucky rider will have their own copy delivered right to them!

And in the spirit of the season, we've decided to sweeten the deal a little bit. For a limited time, we are offering a special Holiday Package which includes an Official Reasons To Ride shirt and subscription for only $50! (+ S/H and Tax if applicable) We will also throw in a $10 ReasonsToRide.com Gift Card, which can be used at the Office Store, any event we are at, or online at www.ReasonsToRide.com

You can order this RtR Gift Package online or by emailing Info@ReasonsToRide.com

Motorcycle Lock

You can help secure their bike with a gift that many riders are afraid to consider or just don’t think of. For ultimate protection, attempt a multipiece lock package that includes a disc lock for the bike's front wheel, a U-lock for its rear wheel as well as a ground anchor to supply a permanent securing area in a garage or driveway. Several more recent locks likewise include integrated security systems that create loud noises and/or app notices when disturbed. Ultimately, if you go with a disc lock, you might want to throw in a suggestion wire, a line that prevents the motorcyclist from damaging their bike by reminding them that the lock is still involved prior to their attempt to ride off.

Battery Tender

Easily one of the most annoying developments over the years, as bikes become more “automated” is that all the electronics cause a slow drain on the battery – so battery tenders are no longer just for winter storage. And the best ones are worry-free devices that monitor the battery and prevent overcharging.

“UltraDri Riding Socks”

Harley-Davidson UltraDri 3 Pack Poly Blend Riding Socks are made of 75% ultraspun polyester, 20% nylon, and 5% spandex. UltraDri moisture wicking keeps feet cool and dry, while the embedded arch support reduces foot fatigue during the ride. They also feature reinforced heel and toe protection and a ribbed “stay-up” top for a secure comfortable fit. You can find these at your favorite local H-D dealer – or even online through Amazon.

Quality Boots

Far too often we scrimp on the little things that can really make a difference in our lives. And there’s probably no better example of that than when it comes to footwear – especially in terms of riding boots. Proper, comfortable riding boots can make all the difference after a long day of riding, working, or simply walking. Far too often, though, we scrimp on boots refusing to spend a few more dollars for a step up in quality that might transform our entire day. For something classy –nothing jazzes up an outfit like a nice pair of exotic boots. For ladies or men, stylish cowboy boots can transform your t-shirt and jeans outfit into the stuff of rockstars.

For our Ohio Riders, there’s one stop that immediately comes to mind for BOOTS and holiday shopping and that’s the Avon Boot Shop. Avon Boot is one of the coolest stops I know when it comes to finding cool practical stuff for riders. From quality leathers to an endless array of boots - Avon Boot is a great place to shop. For the guys, not only do they have boots - they just happen to have a nice selection of very stylish purses and other lady stuff for that special gift. You can get something all pretty and lady like, without having to go into one of those shops that will leave you smelling like something dainty by the time you walk out the door. Plus, they have a

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Cargo Nets

Super practical yet often not thought of by riders themselves are “stretchy” cargo nets to help secure things to seats or random places on the bike.

Motorcycle Tool Kit

There might not be a more appreciated gift on the list, if your favorite rider finds themselves stranded or in need of a tool while out on the road. There are lots of “pre-packed” motorcycle tool kits out there – or you can create your own for your favorite rider. You can find lots of recommended check-lists online, to make sure you include all the necessary essentials.

Helmet Defogger

A great stocking stuffer! One of those great little things that can make all the difference for a rider, but they may not have ever considered!

Helmet Rack

Another practical gift that your favorite rider may have never considered. Get their helmet off the ground, out of the closet – and instead put it on display!

Photo Shoot

Most riders take a lot of pride in their bike, so a pre-paid photoshoot of them and their bike or just the bike alone might hit them straight in the heart! You can find a lot of great photographers online – or you can even email us for suggestions and recommended photographers throughout the Midwest. We work with quite a few.

Rain Suit

Wet weather gear is essential for any serious rider that goes more than an 20 minutes from home –and if they have a tour pac or saddlebags, they should be rolled up and packed for unexpected showers. There are a lot of really expensive, fancy sets – but Frogg Toggs and Nelson-Rigg make some of the best and are really reasonable. The NelsonRigg Stormrider Rain suit is a great modular set that’s well made and thought out. It even comes with a 2 year warranty – which defies the “disposable” feel that most rain suits have.

Independent Shop T’s and Gear

If you’re looking to get a cool motorcycle themed shirt or gear for your favorite rider this Christmas – don’t pick up anything from the stack at the Big Box Store- especially if it features any of the TV bike shops or soap opera clubs. You really don’t want to be the guy or gal riding up in your SOA or Orange County Choppers shirt to Bike Night. And you don’t really want to be responsible for sending out your loved ones like that either!

A MUCH cooler option is a shirt from a local independent bike shop. A shirt from the local shop will be appreciated much more and certainly convey much more thought and appreciation for the iron in the garage – not to mention the local motorcycle scene!

EDITOR’S CHOICE: Michigan Bike Life

www.MichiganBikeLife.com

For those riding from the Wolverine State, we strongly recommend Michigan Bike Life for some really cool gear and accessories. They are a local company that produces high quality clothing and cool accessories emblazoned with their signature “Michigan Skull”. They even have Timing and Derby covers for Harleys that are reasonably priced and ready to ship! We are especially keen on recommending them as they are committed to supporting the local riding scene –including our own Mag! They are an Official Sponsor of Reasons To Ride: Michigan!

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Holiday Gift Ideas

Future Biker Gear

For our youngest bikers, we offer our “Future Biker Gear”. A collection of t-shirts, onesies, and sweatshirts in a variety of colors in sizes from infant to toddler.

Find online at ReasonsToRide.com

Handlebar Cup Holder

These ingeniously straightforward gadgets clip onto a bike's handlebars as well as use a full-sized cup holder to cradle a coffee, water, tea, or beverage of choice. The most effective versions are flexible to fit different sizes of drink, and also several are downright cool-looking, with attributes like chrome finishes that set them in addition to the group. Match it with an insulated traveling cup for onthe-go sip-ability whenever and also any place.

Motorcycle Helmets

If you have a rider in your life, and they don’t have a helmet –it’s a gift that could SAVE THEIR LIFE. Even if they only wear it occasionally – only when it’s raining or for long distances on the freeway you should get them one. Because, if they don’t even own one – you know they aren’t ever going to be wearing one.

Now, we don’t necessarily recommend getting someone a helmet for a gift – unless you really are certain of their size. Making certain that a helmet fits properly isn’t just essential for safety reasons – it’s essential for practical reasons as well. If a helmet isn’t comfortable, chances are they aren’t going to wear it. Many retailers, especially online, have policies that prevent the return of helmets. If you decide to purchase one for someone else, make sure you ask.

An alternative is to take them to the shop and let them pick one out. And for helmets, there’s one Ride Stop that tops all others when it comes to helmets… no contest.

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Iron Pony is the “Mac-Daddy” of all power sports retailers. A family business that is THE BIG BOX store – offering unbelievable selection and amazing prices – yet is locally owned and an avid supporter of the local riding community.

For helmets especially, it’s a trip worth taking from wherever you are. NOBODY has the selection or offers the value that Iron Pony does – and they have the staff there to help you pick out the helmet that’s perfect for you. Even if you have a kid or rider that’s adamant that they don’t want a helmet – you will find something so cool and so comfortable, that they will have a hard time saying no.

Sport Touring Corner

By Norm Kern, MSTA Editor / ReasonsToRide.com Contributor

Norm's Favorite Rides Near Dayton, Ohio

Home for the winter- the Motorcycle Sport Touring Association (MSTA) rally season ended in early November with the Texas Hill Country rally in Kerrville, Texas, so there are no more motorcycle trips for me until at least April, 2023. Still, I like to ride all year round, and will put on the heated gear and go out for a local 100-300 mile day ride whenever weather permits.

Norm's Favorite Rides fall into three categories:

TWISTY routes feature sharp curves and elevation changes with mostly smooth clean pavement, and are preferred by riders of sport and sport touring bikes

TECHNICAL routes, like Twisty routes, have sharp curves and elevation changes, but also include county roads that may contain potholes, patches, gravel on pavement, slips, etc, that may require a slower pace. They are perfect for riders of ADV style bikes, as they take you on the little back roads with the most interesting terrain and scenery.

ADV/GRAVEL routes utilize mostly dirt and gravel roads. Each route on the site features a complete description, an interactive map, and a GPX file download link that contains both routes and tracks for each route. Be sure to go to the website to see all the routes, but here's the basic info on some of the new ones:

Last winter put I up a simple web site to share six favorite local routes that feature twisties, less- traveled county and gravel roads that can be ridden out of my home base in Dayton, Ohio. A number of riders in the southwest Ohio area downloaded and enjoyed them, and I made several new riding friends as a result.

06 Indiana EZ Gravel N 264 is a mix of technical and adv/gravel roads. It starts on Austin road just West of exit 41 of I-75. Goes through Germantown and Camden to Liberty, Indiana, where it picks up a network of farm roads with mixed gravel and pavement, bounded by state route 44 on the South and US 40 on the North. If you want to practice riding gravel roads, this is a good route- nothing difficult. Any road bike will work, but it's more fun on a BMW GS, KTM Adventure or Suzuki V Strom of any size. The return route has a few twisties NW of Camden but otherwise is pretty much straight back to the start on Austin Road. 264 miles.

This site, https://norms-rides.flybyweek.com/ got such a good response that it's been completely redone to work equally well on phones, tablets and desktops. The update added six more routes, so there are now a dozen to choose from. Additional ones are coming in 2023.

07 Indiana EZ Gravel S 228 is a mix of technical and adv/gravel roads a lot like the EZ Gravel N route above, but goes South and West once it hits Indiana. It crosses a bridge over Brookville lake, following farm roads with mixed gravel and pavement, bounded by county road 260 on the North and US 52 on the South. It's a shorter distance at 228 miles, but has more hilly terrain and twisty roads. Lunch stop is the Pioneer restaurant in Brookville, Indiana, a favorite mom and pop dining experience.

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There are two more new routes on the site, and I will report on them in depth next month.

Feel free to contact Norm Kern (his email link is on the site) in the off-season (November-March) if you want to ride any of the routes with him.

Just point your internet browser to Norms Rides at https://norms-rides.flybyweek.com/

Merry Christmas

from the RTR Family

09 Old Y Breakfast Tech 207

This technical route begins on US 42 just South of Waynesville, OH. The first order of business is to get to the Old Y restaurant near Winchester, Ohio, for breakfast! (about 45 miles) They have excellent food at very low cost and are very popular with farmers and working folks. After breakfast the route winds its way through county roads almost to West Union before heading back north. Includes part of OH247, which is a very fun twisty state highway. South of Hillsboro the route heads West, backtracking Part 1 through St Martin and Blanchester, back to the finish at Waynesville.

10 Old Y Lunch Tech 190 is very similar to 09 Old Y Breakfast Tech but initially skips the restaurant to do a different loop in the same area in the opposite direction, then stopping at the Old Y for lunch.

12 Jane's Saddlebag Tech 245 is a technical route that runs southwest from the Austin Road start, crossing into Indiana just north of Harrison. It explores many fun roads in southeast Indiana before crossing into Kentucky at Markland dam. From there it stays on back roads to Jane's Saddlebag near Big Bone Lick park for lunch. From there it's another thirty miles to I-275 around Cincinnati and up I-75 to home

RIDING w BRENDAN

Here it is already! December, another year gone and what a fantastic year of riding it was! I hope your riding season was as eventful as mine was and I hope our paths crossed this year!

I had a great fall color run! I was like the many, many other riders that wanted to do a “color run” such as Tunnel of Trees but with life being as busy at it is I did not have the time or the faith in the fall this year to make the three hour ride up to Petoskey for the day. The trees in the area were either in full fall color or already starting to drop their leaves. The weather had been chilly and wet so no real chance to get a ride in. Looking forward a week it looked like a clear WARM Saturday. Now that I had my day picked, I needed a destination. Luckily, a couple good friends Groot and Randy felt the same way and put the word out and planned a route!

With the fellas having a plan and a flyer we set out to get the word out knowing that in Michigan, this could be our LAST nice day of the season. So between the powers of social media and Reasons to Ride and Michigan Biker Law throwing in their support and swag to give away we just hoped for the best.

The plan was to meet at The Maple Leaf Inn in Vermontville and make a big loop through the country stopping at a few local watering holes on the way.

The morning of the ride I showed up early not entirely sure how many people would show, not that it mattered but just for curiosities sake. People started rolling in shortly after my arrival and they kept rolling in! This went from Groot and Randy wanting to get some folks together to see some colors to nearly 100 bikes and us needing to employ blockers for the ride! There were several clubs and plenty of independents in the group, guys and gals of all riding abilities.

Jeff (Groot from Diamondbacks MC) held the safety meeting before we put kickstands up and headed out to the first stop, Yankee Bill’s. It wasn’t until we pulled into the parking lot that I realized the scope of the number of riders we had. The poor staff was grossly out numbered but held their own and had all our food and drink orders taken and delivered in a timely manner considering the number of bikes and people. After an hour it was back on the road to the next couple stops weaving through back roads with amazing fall colors the entire way. We made a couple shorter stops at other local bars including a stop in Shelbyville and the ever popular Wild Mikes in Battle Creek. As the day progressed and at every stop the numbers dropped a little which is typical on any ride. We ended up back where we began at the Maple Leaf Inn with still well over 70 bikes. Once there the laughs and

stories from the day were abundant with everyone agreeing we simply could not have asked for a better day in fall to ride. The friendships and camaraderie made from this impromptu “Color Run” were very apparent and in my opinion is what this biker life is really all about, the people you meet on your journey whatever it may be. I did the swag give aways and even gave a Bike of the Night Award out (can be seen in this issue)

This is the type of day you can’t plan a year in advance in Michigan. The fall weather is just to unreliable so I have to really give it up to Randy and Groot for putting this together on short notice and including me in one of my favorite rides of the year! Well done fellas, I am not sure this type of day is achievable again but I hope everyone who rides gets a chance to enjoy a day similar to this one at some point in their riding careers. Until next time.

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Brendan Farren, RTR Contributor

2022 RTR FALL COLOR RUN

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12/01/22 06:30 PM

Freddy's Thursday Night Bike

Christmas Bash with Planet Of Fun

Hey my biker friend's and family time for our annual Biker Christmas party since it's my last year hosting bike nights figured we still do our annual Biker Christmas party!!! Bike Night Food and drink Specials....Half off Pizza....

Freddy's Bar & Grill 40000 Garfield Rd.Clinton Township MI 586-416-7777 joemagolan@freddysbarrocks.com

12/02/22 06:00 PM

Leathernecks MC Harrison: BURGER NITE Come on out and support your LOCAL LEATHERNECKS!

Leathernecks MC Harrison Clubhouse 16 S. Clare Ave, Harrison MI 48625 231-838-5152

12/03/22 12:00 -3:00 PM

Pictures with Santa Come join us at Route 30 H-D for Pictures with Santa! This is a free event for you and your little ones! Come on out.

352 Tarhe Trail Upper Sandusky 419-294-4951 route30HD.com

12/03/22 11:00 AM

Selfies with the Grinch

The Grinch will be at Stinger HarleyDavidson December 3rd from 11am to 4pm.

Pictures are free! Please bring your own camera or phone to take pictures with. A team member will be available to help take pictures on your own device if needed.

Stinger Harley-Davidson 3055 Eastpointe Dr. Medina 330-443-3591 marketing@stingerhd.com

12/03/22 11:00 AM

Motorcycle Rehab Chet from Aden Customs will be hosting this 12 month program that will teach you basic maintenance, repair, restoration, and troubleshooting on motorcycles! All of these skills can be used on car maintenance too!

Hope Recovery Center 200 Highland Dr, Medina, 330-952-0109 srobinson@hoperecoverycommunity.org

12/03/22 05:00 PM

Christmas Stockings 4 Homeless Veterans

We will put together 600 Christmas stockings 4 Homeless Veterans. We will have a dinner and a few speakers It will be a great time, with great people, doing great things!

Eagle Church of God 7087 East Dover Rd. Clare 989-285-5550 eaglechurchofgod@yahoo.com

12/03/22 06:00 PM

62nd Annual Indoor Motorcycle Ice Race

The only guaranteed ice in town!!! And its warm in the stands!! Let's go racing!!! See you all there! The Flint Motorcycle Club hosts indoor racing with proceeds benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters. Doors open at 6:00 pm. Race starts at 7:00 pm.

Dort Financial Center 3501 Lapeer Rd. Flint 810-422-3832 blancofmc@gmail.com

12/04/22 08:00 AM

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. $10 ADULTS $8 KIDS 6-12 $8 VETERANS & SENIORS 5 AND UNDER ARE FREE Eggs made to order- Ometlets

- Biscuits & Gravy - Pancakes - Bacon

- Sausage - Corned Beef Hash - Home Fries - Toast - Coffee - Tea - Milk - OJBloody Mary & Bar @ 10am. Swanton American Legion Post #480 200 S. Hallet Ave. Swanton 419-826-2936 swantonlegion@embarqmail.com

12/04/22 11:00 AM

Kickstart Sunday Service

KickStart Sunday Service is our weekly Sunday morning worship service

Victory Biker Church 12190 Miller Rd, Lennon, MI 48449 810-271-0002 info@victorybikerchurch.org

Great Lakes Motorcycle Magazine Powered by ReasonsToRide.com

12/04/22 10:00 AM

Feliz Navidog!

Join us for our Angels for Animals Holiday Event, Feliz Navidog! Bring in your doggies for pictures with Santa from 11:30am-2:30pm

Holiday dog costume contest.

Charity Auction & 50/50. Winners are drawn at 2:30pm Youngstown Harley-Davidson 5700 Patriot Blvd, Youngstown 330-505-2000 info@hdbiketown.com

12/07/22 07:00 PM

Pit Stop Bible Study

PitStop Bible Study is our weekly time of prayer, worship, and Study of God's Word - the Bible.

Victory Biker Church 12190 Miller Rd, Lennon, MI 48449 810-271-0002 info@victorybikerchurch.org

12/08/22 12:00 PM

A.G.H. High Riders & Alpha League Presents: A High Rider Neighborhood Christmas Barbecue All ages are welcome!

A.G.H. High Riders Clubhouse 2002 Puritan Ave. Detroit 313-420-7170 Aghhighriders247@gmail.com

12/09/22 06:30 PM

The Magical Polar Express

Join us at The Lorain Palace Theatre where you will be mesmerized by this fully interactive experience filled with the wonder of "The Polar Express" Goodie bags must be purchased by calling the box office a The Lorain Palace Theatre 617 Broadway Ave. Lorain Kayla 440-245-2323 kayla@lorainpalace.com

12/10/22 11:00 AM

HARLEY DAZE- PHOTOS WITH SANTA

Santa Claus is riding to town! Bring the kiddos for free photos with Santa at Rubber City H-D!

*Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies and Christmas tunes!

*Longest beard Contest 11am-1pm Rubber City Harley-Davidson 1121 Main Street, Cuyahoga Falls 330-535-9900 marketing@americanroadgroup.com

12/10/22 06:00 PM

Christmas with the Rat Pack

A MUST-SEE SHOW! A thrilling night of great music and song. Experience Frank, Dean, and Sammy — the original Rat Pack — performed with a wonderful mix of song, comedy, sketches, and brilliant musical arrangement. A sensory experience you don’t want to miss The Lorain Palace Theatre

617 Broadway Ave. Lorain Kayla 440-245-2323 kayla@lorainpalace.com

12/11/22 08:00 PM

The Polar Express

All aboard! The Dennison Depot will be hosting their magical train rides aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS once again this December! Hop on board the only Polar Express in Ohio for an unforgettable trip to the North Pole!

Dennison Railroad Depot Museum 400 Center St. Dennison 740-922-6776 director@dennisondepot.org

12/13/22 07:00 PM

Comet Bike Night

Motorcycle enthusiasts gathering. 4579 Hamilton Ave,Cincinnati,OHIO,45223

12/16/22 06:00 PM

Naughty List After Hours Party Come party with Sexy Santa and his Naughty Elves during our Naughty List After Hours Party on December 16th from 6-8pm.

Stinger Harley-Davidson 3056 Eastpointe Dr. Medina 330-443-3591 marketing@stingerhd.com

12/16/22 05:00 PM

Lita Ford with Jasmine Cain Lita Ford's career began in 1975 as a founding member and guitarist of the groundbreaking all female group the Runaways. The groups hard rock / punk edge spawned hits like "Cherry Bomb" and "Queens of Noise". Lita and Multi-Award winning, Sturgis, SD, native, Jasmine Cain moved to Nashville in 2003 and went to work paving the way for female fronted rock in the motorcycle events industry.

The Lorain Palace Theatre 617 Broadway Ave. Lorain Kayla 440-245-2323 kayla@lorainpalace.com

12/17/22 10:00 AM

Breakfast with Santa Breakfast with Santa. Includes a kid friendly buffet breakfast with plenty of adult favorites. Santa will visit with plenty of time for photos as well as a small gift from Santa. Adults $10 Kids under 10 $8 under 2 free Almost Home Event Center 230 S 12th St, Sebring Tony 330-428-4873 tonyadean@embarqmail.com

12/31/22 09:00 PM

DJ Jake B-New Years Eve Bash!

DJ Jake B playing all your New Years favorite tunes!

Crazy Fox Saloon/Speakeasy 114 W. Mansfield St. Bucyrus 419-562-1256

1/15/23 10:00 AM

27th Annual Motorcycle Swap Meet 27th Annual Delaware, Ohio motorcycle Swap Meet

Join us for an "old school" traditional swap meet

Vintage parts, new and used parts ,bikes & accessories , 260-301-6340 or Email: Homer1061@icloud.com

Delaware County Farigrounds 236 Pennsylvania Ave., Delaware OH Delaware County Fairgrounds 236 Pennsylvania Ave. Delaware Bubba

Great Lakes Motorcycle Magazine Powered by ReasonsToRide.com

RECIPES

Tangy Honey-Glazed Ham

Grandma's Corn Pudding

Grandma's corn pudding is comfort food at its best. This creamy corn casserole is easy to make with both whole kernel and creamstyle corn, resulting in a custardy pudding that will be a welcome addition to your holiday table.

Ingredients

• 5 large eggs

• ⅓ cup butter, melted and slightly cooled

• ¼ cup white sugar

• ½ cup milk

• ¼ cup cornstarch

• 1 (15.25 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained

• 2 (14.75 ounce) cans cream-style corn

Directions

• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.

• Whisk eggs lightly in a large bowl. Add milk, melted butter, sugar, and cornstarch; whisk until well combined. Stir in drained corn and cream-style corn until fully blended. Pour mixture into the prepared casserole dish.

• Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 1 hour.

Cinnamon Toasty Shooter

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 ounces amaretto liqueur

• 1/2 ounce cinnamon schnapps

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!

Honey-glazed ham is perfect for holiday dinners or other special occasions. An easy, homemade glaze is brushed onto the ham during the last half hour of baking, adding incredible flavor and creating a sweet, sticky, caramelized coating your guests will love. I came up with the glaze for this ham using ingredients on hand and it's the best I've ever tasted.

Ingredients

• 1 (10 pound) fully-cooked, bone-in ham

• 1 ¼ cups packed dark brown sugar

• ⅓ cup pineapple juice

• ⅓ cup honey, or more to taste

• ⅓ large orange

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• 1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice, or to taste (Optional)

Directions

• Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Place ham in a roasting pan.

• Bake ham, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 2 hours.

• While the ham is baking, combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, and 1/3 cup honey in a saucepan. Zest orange into the saucepan, then squeeze in the juice. Add Dijon mustard and ground cloves; whisk mixture over medium-high heat as it comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until glaze thickens slightly, 5 to 10 minutes.

• Taste glaze and adjust seasonings. Add lemon juice for more tang, or honey to make it sweeter. Set aside.

• Remove ham from the oven after it has baked for 2 hours. Brush with glaze. Bake for an additional 30 to 45 minutes, brushing ham with glaze every 10 minutes.

Tips

• Add leftover glaze to the pan drippings along with a little flour or cornstarch to make a nice sauce to accompany the meat. Use the ham bone and any trimmings to make soup afterward.

Merry Christmas

FUNNY STUFF

BECAUSE EVERYONE NEEDS A GOOD LAUGH NOW AND THEN...

Twas the Night Before Christmas (For Bikers)

Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the pad, There was nada happenin’, now thats pretty bad. The woodstove was hung up in that stocking routine, In hopes that the Fat Boy would soon make the scene.

With our stomachs packed with tacos and beer, My girl and I crashed on the couch for some cheer. When out in the yard there arose such a racket, I ran for the door and pulled on my jacket.

I saw a large bro’ on a ’56 Pan Wearin’ black leathers, a cap, and boots (cool biker, man). He hauled up the bars on that bikeful of sacks, And that Pan hit the roof like it was running on tracks.

I couldn’t help gawking, the old guy had class. But I had to go in — I was freezing my ass. Down through the stovepipe he fell with a crash, And out of the stove he came dragging his stash.

With a smile and some glee he passed out the loot, A new jacket for her and some parts for my scoot. He patted her fanny and shook my right hand, Spun on his heel and up the stovepipe he ran.

From up on the roof came a great deal of thunder, As that massive V-twin ripped the silence asunder. With beard in the wind, he roared off in the night, Shouting, “Have a cool Yule, and to all a good ride!”

Great Lakes Motorcycle Magazine Powered by ReasonsToRide.com

from the RTR Family

SPONSOR INDEX

508

Fabrications MI 29

Amish Country Leather OH ......................................... 9

ARSENAL HARLEY-DAVIDSON MI 25, 31, 36 inside cover

Avon Boot Shop OH .................................................... 7

Backwoods Tattoo MI 22, 23

Bair's Powersports OH 28

Beeters Brew Pub MI ................................................. 25

Buckwild Saloon MI 25

Cash 4 Motorcycles OH, MI 27

Christian Motorcycles Association OH .................... 10

Combat Vets 33

Crazy Boars Custom Cycles OH 27

Crazy Fox Saloon (Bucyrus) OH ................................ 9

Crystal Rock Campground OH 28

Deftone Cycles (Chagrin Falls) OH 27

Dick Scott Powersports MI ........................................ 26

District 14 MI 31

Farmer's Tavern MI 25

Fink's Harley-Davidson OH ...................................... 30

Flint Motorcycle Club MI 31

Geico Local OH 41

Geno's (Medina) OH................................................... 9

God Squad MI 11

Gray Wolf Lodge MI 19

Hardcore Custom Cycles OH .................................. 27

Holeshot KTM OH 27

Inkoholics OH 22, 23

Iron Horse Bar OH .................................................... 37

Iron Horse Campgrounds SD 37

Iron Pony / Pony Powersports OH 4,5, 15

Johnny's OH ............................................................... 37

Mama Rene's OH 9

Michigan Bike Life MI 14

Michigan Biker Law MI ................ 7, 16, 25 back cover

Mill Dam Corner Grille OH 33

MKS Supply OH 15

Motoboutique OH ......................................................... 2

Murder City Choppers/Devil Pig Apparel MI 23

Ohio Dept. of Public Safety (Motorcycle Ohio 28

Old Firehouse Winery OH ......................................... 19

Original Margaritaville OH 9

Patriot's Garage MI .................................................... 11

Phoenix Ink & Beauty OH 22

Progressive Insurance OH 1

Queen City Harley-Davidson OH ............................ 35

Raven Ink OH 22

Remies Bar MI 25

Rushing Wind Biker Church OH ............................... 11

Shielded Souls MI 11

Southeast Harley-Davidson OH 3

The Barn OH ................................................................. 9

The Bike Shop OH 27

The Mason Jar OH 9

The Max (Logan) OH .................................................. 9

The Rock OH 15

Walneck's OH 11

Warren HD OH .......................................................... 33

Whitehorse Biker Church OH 10

Wild Mike's MI 25

Wolverine HARLEY-DAVIDSON MI......................... 29

Wrench N Ride MI 19

Youngstown Cycle OH 9

Zeppe's (Newbury) OH

33