Reasons to Ride Ohio August 2023

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BARSTOOL RACES

- CAMPING

- CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

- FIRE DANCERS & AERIAL

PERFORMANCES

- FOOD & BEER

- KICK S KICK START CONTEST

- LIVE MUSIC

- P OKER CRAWL

- RODEO COMPETITION

- TAT TOO GALLERY

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VENDORS & MORE

FROM THE PUBLISHER

As motorcyclists, we’ve learned a lesson that many in our society seem to have forgotten – or just never learned in the first place. That we’re all in this together. If you’re stranded on the side of the road, you really don’t care about the race, religion, or even gender of the person coming to give you a hand. On that last one, you might have a preference – LOL – but not when it comes to really getting going and getting out of a bad situation. And we all appreciate that it could be us stranded on the side – or maybe even was the week before. So, we stop and help each other out. And those are the stories we share that build our sense of brotherhood and camaraderie. The stories that reinforce our charitable approach and sense of community that make motorcyclists one of the most sought after markets for many that might be looking to raise funds for a charitable cause – or just make a buck for themselves.

As I write this, in the midst of the riding season, I find myself reflecting on many of the unique individuals that we work with and come across while covering our community and endless events that are being held all around us. Some are just bikers looking to host a party. Some are hard working, dedicated individuals looking to raise funds for a cause they believe in. And yes, some are just opportunistic promoters looking to make a buck off the riding community.

That last group isn’t necessarily a bad bunch of folks – we just need to recognize them as such, and possibly be wary.

Our own organization – Reasons To Ride is a business built around the mission of serving the riding community. We fill a niche within the publishing world that has grown exponentially with the internet – that of connecting bikers and letting riders know what’s going on. On good days – more often before COVID – we might make a profit and help support our families with our work, but there are no guarantees.

We invest our time and resources into the concept of connecting riders and delivering them a message – which is what we offer to others. We offer this service – the opportunity to tap into the riding community – which then pays for the increasingly expensive magazines which we then distribute to riders free of charge. As part of that effort and as a means of increasing our reach, we also offer our services at greatly reduced rates or even free of charge to charitable organizations or non-profit events.

We do so to increase our reach, help authenticate ourselves, but to also help support all of these organizations and worthy causes. That’s what we do – and we’re proud of it.

I’m writing this, while still fairly exhausted from attending the REBEL ROAD in Muskegon, Michigan. This is an AMAZING RALLY that is hosted by the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon County – all to help support the kids they serve. I don’t know how many “bikers” are on this council – and it really doesn’t matter. They’ve put together an incredible event that supports a great cause that they believe in. They operate themselves with integrity while serving both the kids in need and the community as a whole – while throwing Michigan’s BIGGEST BIKER BASH! They are “bikers” in my mind –regardless of them actually owning any motorcycles.

Conversely, we’ve come across plenty of folks that may have two wheels parked in the garage (or in dealer storage) but they don’t have the slightest bit of “biker spirit” in their heart. Ironically, these are the folks that are usually the quickest to point out that they are “bikers” or possibly even veterans – but their priority isn’t service, it’s profit.

These are the folks that you need to watch out for and maybe reconsider your support of. They don’t really have to charge $10 for a beer or $350 for an “oil change”. And you don’t have to support those folks, if you don’t think it’s worth it.

It’s ok to hold people to a higher standard – including being honest –regardless of them calling themselves “bikers”, “veterans”, or even simply “Americans”.

Not only is it “OK” – it’s what we all need to do if we are going to maintain our community – both as bikers or simply as good folks wanting to make the world a little better… one mile at a time.

Live Strong and RIDE WORTHY!

D. A. SMITH, PUBLISHER

For more information on Reasons To Ride – or how you can join the network, email us at Info@ ReasonsToRide.com

YOU HAVE A CHANCE TO WIN THIS WORLD CLASS VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE!

Just for checking in at our Feature Ride n Win Ride Stops in 2023

Once again, Reasons To Ride will be offering riders the chance to win an incredible vintage motorcycle –restored by the Wheels Through Time Restoration Shop – simply for checking in at featured Ride Stops next year. The first feature bike for our 2023 Ride & Win Challenge is this 1937 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead Bobber.

“this 1937 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead Bobber, finished in HD custom Silver, striped in Black, and edged in Gold. This 61c.i. Knucklehead powerhouse sports a 4-speed transmission, bobbed fenders, and Flanders accessory risers and bars, flaunting its authentic period-modified look and feel.” – Wheels

Through Time

The Wheels Through Time Museum is home to one of the world’s premier collection of rare American motorcycles and memorabilia. Located in Maggie Valley, North Carolina; the museum houses over 300 rare machines.

In support of this wonderful organization and in appreciation for not only the work they do but the machines themselves, Reasons To Ride has committed to awarding riders with a chance to win this world class motorcycle as part of the 2023 Ride n Win Challenge.

Starting in May, riders can check in at featured stops throughout the Midwest. Each check-in counts as a “chip in the barrel” and a chance to win this breathtaking bike! And amazingly, there’s no purchase necessary. Just like the magazines, the websites, and all the motorcycle event listings they contain – this promotion is offered through the support of our sponsors.

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

MOTORCYCLE MINISTRIES

MARY GILBERT, CMA STATE COORDINATOR

Flags, fireworks, and frustrations…

Man, life can get so frustrating at times! Things seem to flare up at the most inopportune moments and it seems when one thing happens, another one pops its ugly head up to open the door for yet another one and BAM! The trifecta of super storms hits like a hurricane on a one-man island!

We have all had these times, haven’t we? The deal is life is not meant to be perfect. We can try for it, the word says to do so, but that is only meant for perfecting ourselves to become better. Not to expect the world around us to be perfect. Too many factors weigh in to make that perfect world impossible and improbable. So where am I going with this one? Down a two-lane highway…slow and steady. With every challenge we face, there’s a way through it. We just need to be alert to the right way and follow it so we can come out of it with little or no dust to shake off.

There are times when we create our own challenges, we speak out when we should just be quiet and listen, or we jump before we think it through. A lot of us are like that, except One, He sees the end from the beginning…kind of amazing. So, why doesn’t He let us see like that as well, we may ask…the answer is quite simple…because we would try to change it to meet our own way of doing things and mess it all up!

Here’s a way to look at it a little differently…every challenge we meet is a challenge to become better through it. WHAT??? Yes. God doesn’t purposely put things in our path to grow our faith or teach us a lesson. He has always known since the fall of man in the garden that we would have struggles, temptations, trials, and major challenges because the fall of man turned this world over to the enemy’s hands and that dude doesn’t want anybody happy and he has his own challenge to overcome… pride! Doubtful that he does…well, he won’t, and he won’t stop with himself, he wants to get everyone over on his side, and that is the biggest challenge of all…not falling into the pride side of life.

How do we do that? Here’s a start…we should not ever be so prideful that we cannot ask for help, offer help, or be a help to others. We should not ever be so prideful that we think we know better than others, can do better than others or bring shame to anyone else’s name. Pride is a challenge all to itself because in every situation we face, pride can stand in the way

of a successful outcome. The word says in 1 Peter 5:5 “God resists the proud and gives grace to the humble.” Personally, I do not want to be resisted by God! What does that even mean?? Well, to resist means to oppose, take a stand against, prevent, block… need I say more?

God’s grace is sufficient to get us through every challenge we face. All we have to do is trust in Him and receive the grace He has for us. That grace is unmerited, unearned favor. We don’t have to do anything to receive it…how is that possible? Because Jesus did it all for us. He took back what was taken in the garden, and He became one for all and all for one purpose…overcoming the sin, sickness, disease and death of this world. We don’t have to do anything but believe with our heart and confess with our mouth that He did it! Now there’s a challenge that is worth facing! All the rest is just dust in the wind. And speaking of the wind…

That’s where I hope to see you next time…

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.

RIDING w BRENDAN

STEEL SADDLES and Hanging w/ Bud!

Steel Saddles! I had been looking forward to this event since winter. Reasons to Ride was in the loop from the planning stages of this one so the anticipation had built steadily throughout the year.

It’s tough to know what to expect with a first-year rally. I did know that the ladies hosting it have a plethora of experience hosting large events, so I wasn’t concerned about it being a shitshow. I knew they were on the right track when I started hearing the names of the bands coming for entertainment.

Sponge, Tantric and Jesse Cain as headliners sign me up!

With the event starting on a weekday and my vacation days dwindling I couldn’t make it to the first day and my beer league hockey playoffs starting I couldn’t go Friday which bummed me out because that is when Sponge was playing and after seeing them at Ohio Bike Week I was stoked to see them again.

I woke up ready to go! I grabbed up Michelle and off we went. When we pulled in it was good to see the familiar faces of my friends that I see at the events. As Michelle and I made our way to the Reasons to Ride trailer we were taking in the set up and the area. Shoutout to the Tribesmen MC for offering their property for the event after the fairgrounds didn’t pan out. We made our way past the bar stool races and found a spot to park. Jumped out and was quickly greet by my friend Hobo Bud. You know your event is going to be big if Bud makes an appearance. Bud is always a familiar face and a brother we can all pick out of a crowd. If you haven’t ever spoke to him, you should. The guy is living the life! He embodies the “biker lifestyle”. Be sure to look for the stones he hides around events all around the state and when you see him buy a patch and get a pic! He is super laid back and

Brendan Farren, RTR Contributor

approachable he is always eager to stop and take pics or answer questions and shoot the shit. Just an all-around solid guy (look for more about Bud in upcoming issues)

After spending more time visiting the crowd. Hugo from Tantric came up and said hi after recognizing me from SOMEWHERE! I thought it was great that a star knew ME of all people. Michelle and I spent some time talking to him and the guys from the band even convincing them the photobooth was a good idea. What a SUPER down to Earth, bunch of guys. Seriously can’t say enough good things about them. They put on a GREAT show that night and to be that close to the stage and have got the chance to interact on that level

with them was amazing. It wasn’t because I was in a magazine or anything of that nature, they were available to everyone to talk to!

SOMEHOW I got ahold of a microphone and was asked to emcee the wet t-shirt contest (did I say I love my job) Which was incredibly fun for the girls who were just great sports and had only positive things to say to each other during this. There were no real losers.

I spent the last part of my night hanging out with a couple Tuscola County Sheriff Deputies shooting the bull. These guys were respectful and professional, but I didn’t want to stay with them longer than a conversation!

My opinion for what it’s worth Steel Saddles’ first year was a good time. While the turnout wasn’t on the level of say Rebel Roads, it was still solid. Especially considering it was competing with Harley’s 120th Celebration in Milwaukee and the Faster Horses Music Festival all the same weekend. And most importantly, everyone there seemed to be having a lot of fun. If the girls decide to make this an annual event, I recommend checking it out! Stop and see Bud if you’re out and about. Until next time!

RTR CHAMPIONSHIP BIKE SHOW SERIES August 2023 UPDATE!

All makes, models, and years are truly welcome at the RTR Bike Shows. We have over 15 distinct classes for bikes, and we are constantly adding more as the shows evolve. We group bikes by style and origin, and try to balance things out as much as possible. Categories include designations for Imported and Domestic, Touring, Trikes, Vintage, Racing, and even Radical. Specialty classes include Custom Paint, Patriotic and Military themed bikes, and even a Ladies Class.

It's important to recognize that these are INFORMAL, RIDE-IN SHOWS! While we do use Judges at most shows, the majority of the votes come from the crowd. These are fun shows with the emphasis on camaraderie more than competition. If you’ve ever stormed out of a show after not winning the big trophy – these shows aren’t for you. We’ve always believed that the best thing about our bike show series is the people that both exhibit and attend. This isn’t just about the bikes – but about the people building and riding them as well.

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

Yeah, We’re already looking towards 2024

Even though we’re still in the midst of this riding season, it’s already time for us to start looking towards and planning the next! While the shows are still fresh in our mind, we already start considering how we can improve next year’s shows and considering each tour stop. Which should we return to – and where else should we go? And as always, we’d welcome your thoughts. Which shows were your favorites – and which rallies, ride stops, and events do you think we should consider adding to the schedule? We’ve already got a few new locations under consideration, but we want to hear from you – the riders and exhibitors. If you’ve got thoughts, send us a message on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/ReasonsToRide) or email us at Info@ReasonsToRide.com

If you’re already hosting a Bike Show on the series and want us back for 2024 – get in touch ASAP. We are reviewing all the locations and need to lock down dates as we consider adding new locations. As soon as you have your 2024 dates down, shoot us an email. Plus, we will start promoting the new stops this fall as we begin working with sponsors. And yes, that means sponsorship opportunities for your event as well.. and yes more $$$$. So, don’t miss out! Email us ASAP.

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 BikeShowInfo@gmail.com

Piston Power 2024

Speaking of 2024, we’re already working with the I-X Center to expand the motorcycle presence at the 2024 Summit Racing Equipment I-X Piston Powered Auto-Rama. Held in Cleveland, Ohio; we’ve been a part of this show for more than 12 years – helping to host one of the largest indoor custom vehicle shows on the planet.

For next year’s show – there is an interest in featuring a limited number of CUSTOM MOTORCYCLE SHOPS as part of the show. Builders can enter as many as four bikes as part of their display within the motorcycle area and compete for the $1,000 top cash prize. Please email us ASAP if you'd be interested in participating and setting up at the show at Info@ ReasonsToRide.com.

Next year's dates are APRIL 5-7, 2024

UPCOMING SHOWS

Looking forward, we’ve made a commitment to further developing the Bike Show Series – with the addition of more shows across Michigan and the Midwest. More than DOUBLING the area covered by our show series this year – we can’t wait to see the show grow with more unique vintage and custom motorcycles.

FINK’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON BIKE SHOW

FINK’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON, ZANESVILLE OH

– SATURDAY, AUGUST 5TH

Fink’s Harley-Davidson hosts the 4th Edition of their RTR Championship Bike Show – and every one of the shows has been a hit! Each year there have been a number of unique garage and pro custom builds – as well as classic vintage bikes. One of last year’s winners came all the way from St. Louis!

Each year, Fink’s presents live music along with food vendors for exhibitors and guests to enjoy!

ARSENAL BIKE SHOW

Arsenal Harley-Davidson, Waterford Michigan

- Saturday, August 26th

This show, presented by Michigan Biker Law, welcomes all makes and models and features over 40 trophies – including the chance for a BEST IN SHOW Championship Series Belt!

IRON PONY BIKE SHOW

Iron Pony Powersports, Westerville OH

– Saturday, August 19th

The RTR Championship Bike Show Series returns to IRON PONY MOTORSPORTS – Central Ohio’s Motorcycle SUPERSTORE for the 6th 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!

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

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

photos by Dave Kimery, Brendan Farren, Dan Hare, and Tyler Roberts

Thunder On The Strip 2023 The THUNDER ZONE Returns to Geneva-On-The-Lake!

Friday, September 8th – Sunday, September 10th

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 / “off-season”. 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 magazine!

Over the year’s 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 8th Sunset Bar / Thunder Zone 6-9pm

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

13th Annual Thunder Zone Vintage & Custom BIKE SHOW

Saturday, September 10th Noon – 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 setting – 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.

NEW THIS YEAR: Custom ReasonsToRide.com

Championship BELT to be awarded to the BEST IN SHOW BIKE!

Register in advance at ThunderRoadsOhio.com to reserve your space and get a FREE T-Shirt! Follow the event on Facebook, for more information and updates!

LOUDEST PIPES CONTEST! Immediately following the Bike Show Awards, presented by Inkoholics Tattoo!

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.

THE RALLY RUN-DOWN

A run down of recommended motorcycle rallies and multi-day events. EASYRIDERS RODEOFowlerville

August 18 – 23, 2023 Fowlerville, MI

EasyriderEvents.com

The legendary Easyriders Rodeo’s are the essential biker bash – and while they aren’t for everyone, they are certainly the definition of old school biker bash for most. National headliners, barstool races, rodeo games, and biker shenanigans fill out a weekend that demands you camp there to fully experience things. It’s just you and 5,000 of your “soon-to-be” closest biker buddies!

EASYRIDERS RODEOBloomville

August 31 – Sept. 4, 2023 Cole Farms, Bloomville OH

EasyriderEvents.com

The legendary Easyriders Rodeo in Chillicothe was forced to find a new home in the midst of the COVID pandemic and ensuing craziness. So last year it landed in Bloomville, Ohio and the Easyriders folks did an AMAZING job of recreating what just might have been the most shamelessly copied event in the motorcycle world. Folks that weren’t there and the old school guys that hate change may bemoan me saying this –but in many ways, we like the new location even better than “Chilli”.

So, Labor Day weekend – you once again have a chance to come and party with “10,000 Brothers and Sisters” that you may have never met before, with Creed Fisher, Moonshine Bandits, and Tantric on stage… rodeo games running on the field, and the traditional craziness in the camping area.

BIKES ON THE BRICKS

September 7-10, 2023 Flint MI

BikesOnTheBricks.com

Since 2007, this annual event has been held the weekend after Labor Day on the brick streets of downtown Flint MI. Over the years, B-o-B has evolved into a unique rally centered around a police motorcycle skills competition that draws competitors from across the country and beyond. It’s really a celebration of both bikes and riding – that welcomes enthusiasts of all ages.

Sport Touring Corner

By Norm Kern, MSTA Editor / ReasonsToRide.com Contributor

Drive Weather App

If you are doing day rides or multi-day trips, wouldn't it be nice to have an app on your phone that lets you put in a route, then shows you what the weather will be at points along the way when you reach them?

For years I used a web site called get-there-dry.com. It helped me countless times to avoid rain and other bad weather while riding, but this year it disappeared from the web. Fortunately we live in a world where there is a phone app for everything, and I found an even better app, Drive Weather, which is available as a free download for both iPhone and Android.

Drive Weather is the brainchild of entrepreneur Paxton Calvanese. Go to your phone's app store right now and install it so you can follow along- you're going to love it!

On the main screen you will see a Google map. You can pan and zoom it like any other app. The most popular use of Drive Weather is for travel- To see how this works, click the magnifying glass icon at the top right of the screen to open the search panel.

Enter your starting and destination cities. (You can enter additional waypoints and stops in the PRO version.) Select FASTEST ROUTE. The app will collect data and display the route with symbols that show weather conditions along the route at your expected time of arrival.

Simply move the time slider near the bottom of the screen to see what the conditions will be at different starting times.

To learn what the weather symbols mean, click the question mark at the bottom of the screen. 2308-06.jpg Many symbols have dual function- the line thickness of the rain, snow, etc. symbols indicate intensity, while the lightness or darkness of the background color indicates likelihood.

There are several icons along the right side of the map screen. Below the default weather button there are buttons for temperature, wind and current radar.

The AREA WEATHER function is handy for a quick check if you're going on a ride to see if there's better weather in a particular direction or want to know how warm to dress for the ride. Weather symbols appear on the map in about a 100 mile diameter circle around your location, and the time slider and side buttons work normally. The time slider lets you look up to two days ahead. (Seven days on the PRO version.)

Connect with local Ohio Motorcycle Sport Touring Association riders at these monthly breakfasts:

Southwest Ohio Breakfast, 9AM, August 19

Village Family Restaurant

144 S. Main St.

Waynesville, OH 45068

Central Ohio Breakfast Meet - Sept 6

Portside Cafe

6515 S High St

Lockbourne, OH 43137

Dew Point

If you select Motorcycle as your vehicle in Drive Weather settings, you get the added option to view the dew point along your route, just like for temperature.

Why pay attention to Dew Point? When people talk about comfort levels, you will sometimes hear them say, “It’s the humidity, not the heat.” That is true because although heat plays a major role in causing hot conditions, dew point and relative humidity are the elements that actually determine your comfort levels.

Here's how to interpret dew point for motorcycle riding:

< 60° F Pleasant- air feels dry and crisp.

~ 65° F Getting sticky

~70° F Uncomfortable

>75° F Intolerable, possible danger of heat stroke.

Last tip:

The quickest way to learn the Drive Weather's features is to click on the gear icon in the lower left corner of the screen to go to the settings page and play the Quick Start Video Guide. This page is also where you will find app settings, subscription info, etc. Enjoy!

Backroads of Appalachia! - Reasons to Ride Partner

Coal Train 421-August

Just off of Exit 90 on I-75 in Richmond, KY is the beginning of one of the greatest rides or drives you will find here in Central Appalachia. This 130 Mile GPS-Enabled Trail Route in our Backroads of Appalachia Mobile Application, Appropriately Named “COAL TRAIN 421”, is an amazing journey through the heart of Eastern Kentucky and Appalachian Coal Country. This incredible ride on “The Road Less Traveled” will connect you with many of our other routes as you enjoy the scenery and curves on the roads that once hauled coal from our mountains and many of the small communities you will visit and experience along the way. Just 20 minutes from the start of “COAL TRAIN 421” is our Freedom Ridge Welcome Center in Mckee, KY, a general store atmosphere were you can rest, have a cold drink and snack, and get some great Backroads of Appalachia Merchandise as well as learn about the Civil War History of Jackson County, KY. The building itself is part of this history as it was once a Civil War Hospital and holds many pictures and relics of the era inside for you to enjoy!

On our Freedom Ridge Trail Route you will find many Civil War Skirmish sites including the Battle of Big Hill and also the Jackson County Veterans Memorial in Downtown Mckee. One of the most amazing Veterans Memorials in the State with tributes to all eras on display to honor our Nation’s Heroes. Head further south on 421 and it will connect you with many of our popular routes North including “Ridge Runner Road 587”, “Ride the River Dragon”, and “To the Holler” just to name a few. As you continue your journey you will enter Clay County and the “Land of Swinging Bridges”! The City of Manchester, is steeped in rich coal history with many great things

to see and do from Swinging Bridges, to the Train Depot, to the one and only Pat’s Snack Bar which happens to have one of the Best Burgers in the whole state as ranked by Travel 7. Trust us It’s true, we have been there…Allot.

If there is one thing we love here on the motorcycle side as much as we do riding it’s food! If you look closely at our mobile app you will notice that some of our routes stop or start at or near a great place to eat as we are all about supporting our small businesses. We even have a Trail Route named after a restaurant! We are Bikers after all! Speaking of great restaurants to visit on this trip, when you reach Harlan, KY and the end of line on “Coal Train 421” look up and you will see the Harlan County Beer Company, Yep you caught us! Did I mention cold beer and killer food?

Around the corner you will find Sassy Trash, the coolest store you will ever go in. Harlan County is the Capital of Kentucky’s Coal Mining History and here you will find many of our most popular routes South including the trail that started it all for us, The Dragonslayer 160 and our welcome center in Lynch, KY. You will also find Portal 31, a tourable coal mine that once was the biggest in the world.

There are so many great things to see and do in Harlan that we do not have enough space to tell everything but stay tuned as we continue to give you the scoop. So what are you waiting for, get on the rails and ride “Coal Train 421” from Richmond, KY to Harlan, KY Today!

FIREARMS REPORT

So you have a gun, now get out and shoot!

How to Find a Shooting Range

Drew Warden, GunDigest.com

As many shooters know, an important aspect of gun ownership is regularly getting out and spending time shooting. The most effective method of growing shooting sports is to get new and young shooters involved. The best—and perhaps the only—way of accomplishing this is to get them out at the range.

A range session is an enjoyable and necessary experience for any shooter regardless of skill level. Range trips help educate and familiarize new shooters with firearm safety and shooting basics, and they serve as valuable training time for more seasoned shooters.

Unfortunately, while trips to the shooting range are the primary building blocks for any shooter’s development, finding and accessing ranges isn’t always easy. Shooters living in rural areas may have the benefit of shooting on their own private land or that of a friend. Many new shooters, especially those in urban areas, simply don’t have that luxury.

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the trade association for the firearms industry, has helped shooters solve this problem by creating a comprehensive, searchable directory (WhereToShoot.org) that lists places to shoot. Available as an online guide or downloadable as an app for Apple and Android smartphones, the directory is expansive and offers shooters many great resources.

Where to Shoot

Designed to be quick and simple to use, the NSSF’s “Where to Shoot” directory provides a few different options for finding the right place to shoot. The user can view listings by state or search the directory by inputting a zip code and a distance parameter ranging from 5 miles up to 120 miles.

These are the only two ways to find shooting areas on the mobile app; however, the online directory can filter results even further based on several other factors.

One of these filtering options is “shooting activities,” which allows the user to select ranges based on the type of activities they offer These include shotgun events such as trap and skeet, centerfire or rimfire rifle shooting, and handgun shooting, among others. Whether the ranges have dedicated archery or airgun areas can similarly be used to limit results.

Choices can also be filtered by what kind of competitions and organized events the range hosts, or even by what type of services are available (retail store, food service, camper/RV sites, etc.). Likewise, those looking for hunting opportunities can find them by choosing among several different types of game animals they’d like to pursue.

This level of detail allows shooters to find the location that fits their exact needs and desires, and which will hopefully translate into continued or even expanded participation in the shooting sports.

One-Stop Shop

Users can also locate ranges based on what shooting activities they offer. Photo by Drew Warden

A guide to finding ranges is an excellent tool for shooters, but the NSSF doesn’t stop there. In addition to helping users locate shooting areas, the online directory offers an assortment of useful tips and tools, especially for novice shooters.

Under a separate tab on the Where to Shoot homepage titled “Resources,” the NSSF provides links to several educational guides and a host of informative sources. There are links to the NSSF’s YouTube channel, where users can find instructional videos on shooting tips and tactics, and to the NSSF blog, where shooters can view the latest industry news and trends.

Particularly helpful to first-time gun owners and shooters, the resources tab also contains links to the rules of firearm safety and other firearm safety literature. Printable paper targets ranging from deer and turkey to standard bullseyes are available as well, giving shooters a leg up as they make their way to the range.

The site’s resources section includes an extensive catalog of youth and college shooting sports programs and a page that details the various competitive shooting sports. It also features a list of other organizations for shooters and provides information on NSSF First Shots seminars, introductory courses where shooters learn the basics of safe firearm handling and use, receive guidance on local requirements for purchasing and owning firearms and hear about different shooting sports opportunities. Last but not least, the site allows shooters to search for firearm retailers by state.

A Go-To Resource

With an extensive directory of shooting ranges and clubs that is regularly updated and available online or on most smartphones, NSSF’s Where to Shoot is a valuable tool for both novice and veteran shooters. The user-friendly design allows shooters to quickly and easily find nearby ranges, leaving them with more time to actually shoot and acquire proficiency with a chosen firearm. The Where to Shoot website (WhereToShoot.org) is a wellspring of useful information, especially for new or youth shooters just beginning their shooting careers. Whether the shooter is looking to simply improve marksmanship abilities or get started in competitive shooting, the NSSF’s online guide has abundant information to help. With its Where to Shoot website and mobile app, the NSSF has created a powerful, easy-to-use resource located literally at a shooter’s fingertips or in the palm of their hands.

EDITOR’S NOTE:

We are providing this content for consideration and discussion purposes. We STRONGLY believe that NOT EVERYONE should carry a firearm – and if so, should ONLY be done when legally able and with proper training. Firearms MUST also be properly and securely stored when not carrying. This isn’t just a legal disclaimer – this is common sense, we believe.

8/02/23 12:00 PM

Athena Ride for Women 2023

Ohio’s Windy 9

Athens OH (800)878-9767

AUGUST 5, 2023 11am

REASONS TO RIDE BIKE SHOW

FINK's HARLEYDAVIDSON

ZANESVILLE, OHIO

8/05/23 10:00 AM

Chief's Chicken Run

Shakers Public House

385 Georgesville Rd, Columbus OH 43228

8/06/23 08:00 AM

Walneck’s Springfield Motorcycle Swap Meet - August

Clark County Fairgounds

4401 S. Charleston Pike, Springfield OHIO 45502

AUGUST 9, 2023 6pm

ARSENAL H-D

BIKE NIGHT w/ LAVISH

Waterford, Michigan

8/10/23 12:00 PM

Summerfest (Abate Foundation Event)

Boot Hill Ranch

10542 Bair Lake RD, Three Rivers

Sammy B574-596-7266 elkhartcountyabate@gmail.com

AUGUST 11, 2023 7pm

IRON & INK TATTOO PARTY WOODCHIPS

LAPEER, MI

8/11/23 11:00 AM

3rd Annual Tattoo City Tattoo Convention

Dort Financial Center 3501 Lapeer Road Flint Dolan3737amber@gmail.com

AUGUST 11-13, 2023

RAYMOND'S REVENGE

HARESCRAMBLE w/ CASH PAYOUTS

MUSKEGON

MOTORCYCLE CLUB

BRIDGETON, MI

AUGUST 12 & 13, 2023

MOTORCYCLE

MADNESS 2

LAPEER RACEWAY

LAPEER, MI

August 18-20, 2023

EASYRIDERS

RODEO

Fowlerville, Michigan

EasyridersEvents.com

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19th

6-10pm

ANNUAL CORN ROAST at SOUTH EAST HARLEYDAVIDSON

CLEVELAND, OHIO

www.SouthEastHArley.com

AUGUST 19, 2023 11am

REASONS TO RIDE

BIKE SHOW

IRON PONY

WESTERVILLE, OH

8/19/23 09:00 AM

Suicide Prevention Motorcycle & Auto Fundraiser Ride Poker Run

Outlaw Pete's

7658 Smith Creek Rd. Wales

Sherri Liverance 810-689-0457

8/20/2023

RIDE FOR THE RHINOS

IRON PONY

WESTERVILLE, OH

8/20/23 09:00 AM

14th

Annual

Bikers for Boobs

Poker Run

Summit County Fairgrounds

229 E. Howe Road Tallmadge info@akronbfb.com

AUGUST 22-23, 2023

INDIAN DEMO

DAYS

BAIRS POWERSPORTS CANTON, OHIO

AUGUST 23, 2023 6pm

IRON & INK TATTOO PARTY

ZEPPE'S

NEWBURY, OH

AUGUST 26, 2023 11am

REASONS TO RIDE

BIKE SHOW

ARSENAL H-D

WATERFORD, MI

8/26/23 09:00 AM

19th Annual Hotrods and Harleys Brothers of the Ring MC

Main Street Mulliken K-9517-927-7981

8/26/23 10:00 AM

Cruisin' The Chapel Car Cruise

Christ Community Chapel

750 West Streetsboro Street

Hudson

(330) 650-9533

contact@ccchapel.com

8/26/23 11:00 AM

Riding For Amputees Motorcycle Rally

Townsend Park

8280 6 Mile Road Cannonsburg

Jessica616-893-6930

fabercycle898@gmail.com

SUNDAY, AUG 27th 9am

SASSY'S 11th

ANNUAL POKER RUN

TWINSBURG, OHIO

AUG 31 - SEPT 4, 2023

EASYRIDERS RODEO

BLOOMVILLE, OH

EasyridersEvents.com

9/01/23 08:00 AM

6th Annual Ohio Vintage Nationals

Freebird Dragway

Friendship Park Smithfield 740-827-8455

9/01/23 12:00 PM

Michigan CMA State Rally 2023

Bay Shore Campground 450 N. Miller Rd, Sebewaing MICHIGAN 48759

SAT SEPT 2nd

LAVISH SOUND COMPETITION

ARSENAL H-D

9/01/23 05:00 PM

19th Annual Freedom Fest

Iron Horse Bar & Grill 3592 Main St., Akron MI 48701

SEPT 8-10, 2023

16th Annual BIKES ON THE BRICKS

FLINT, MICHIGAN BikesOnTheBricks.com

9/08/23 10:00 AM

21st 9/11 Remembrance Run

2 Wheel Tavern 13984 S Straits Hwy Old 27 Wolverine (231) 525-8388

twowheeltavern@yahoo.com

SEPT 8, 2023 7pm

IRON & INK TATTOO PARTY

REASONS TO RIDE THUNDER ZONE

GENEVA-ON-THELAKE, OH

SEPT 9, 2023 11am

REASONS TO RIDE BIKE SHOW

REASONS

TO

RIDE THUNDER ZONE

GENEVA-ON-THELAKE, OH

9/09/23 10:00 AM

Warren's Ride For Autism

Route 12 Harley-Davidson

68951 White School Road Sturgis

WarrenrideforAutism@yahoo.com

9/15/23 12:00 PM

Ohio CMA State Rally 2023

Union County Fairgrounds 845 N. Main St, Marysville OHIO

Sat., Sept 16, 2023 6pm

IRON & INK TATTOO PARTY

ARSENAL H-D

WATERFORD, MI

9/17/23 10:00 AM

19th Annual Breast Fest N/a until further notice (no details on event)

RECIPES

Sweet Pepper Lasagna

My husband calls this one a butt-burner lol Not gonna explain, you'll figure it out lol

Firecracker Shrimp

Serve 2 (or 1 hungry biker chick)

2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined, tail on or off

3 tbsp butter

2 tbsp garlic, minced

2 tbsp chili flakes

1/2 tomato, diced fine

2 tsp hot sauce

1/4 cup white wine

1/4 cup lemon juice

2 tsp oregano

In a skillet heat the butter over medium heat

Add in the garlic, chili pepper flakes, tomato, and saute 1-2 minutes, dont burn

Add the white wine, lemon juice, and hot sauce then allow to simmer for 5 minutes.

Add in the oregano and simmer until the sauce just starts to thicken, about 8-10 minutes. Then add the shrimp and simmer until cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Serve alone or over pasta - if you're brave enough!

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!

Recipes Courtesy : "The Biker Chick's Kitchen 2" on Facebook

Serve 4-6 (or 3 hungry bikers)

8-9 large green, red, yellow, orange (or combo of a few) bell peppers

2 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, diced

2 tbsp garlic, minced

½-1 lb Italian sausage (turkey, chicken or pork)

½ cup chicken stock

1 teaspoon dry basil leaves

¼ tsp fennel seeds

1 tsp oregano

1/4 cup parmesan

2 cup cooked wild rice

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup low fat ricotta cheese

1 egg

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp pepper

1 jar of your favorite spaghetti sauce (or your own homemade stuff)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Fill a large soup pot half way with water then place over high heat and bring to a boil

Meanwhile cut tops off of the bell peppers, remove any seeds and discard then cut the bottoms off, slice one side of each pepper and place all into the boiling water and allow to cook for at least 5 minutes

In a medium sauce pan heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until slightly soft

Add in the sausage, chicken stock, basil, fennel seeds, and oregano, brown meat until all liquid is gone, remove from heat, stir in cooked rice and allow it to cool

Mix the egg, ricotta, parmesan, half the mozzarella, salt and pepper in a bowl and set aside

Remove peppers from water and allow to drain– they should be nice and soft just like lasagna noodles

To assemble place a couple tablespoons over the bottom of a 13 x 9 baking dish

Layer of 1/3 of the peppers, cutting if needed to fit

Layer in ½ of the meat mixture, ½ of the cheese mixture and 1/3 the sauce mix, repeat

Top with the remaining peppers and mozzarella, then cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes

Remove the foil and bake another 20 minutes

Remove from oven and allow to sit 10-15 minutes, slice and serve!

SPONSOR DIRECTORY

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