October 12-13, 2024 oregonia, ohio
FROM THE PUBLISHER
As our riding seasons begins to wind down and the Bike Nights start dropping off, we tend to start reflecting on the past year and all we’ve accomplished – and the opportunities for improvement and growth.
These are all uncharted waters as we continue to push the limits and expand our focus and business plan. What started as a magazine to promote our regional rally has turned into a multistate, multi-media resource for riders across the Midwest – and even country. From our core states of Michigan and Ohio – we’ve partnered with Hard Tales to reach riders in upstate New York and Western PA, and started building a base for our new Appalachian Edition covering Tennessee and Kentucky through West Virginia, Western PA, and even parts of Virginia and the Carolinas.
While we are producing print and digital magazines, our foundation has always centered around our boots-on-the-ground approach to marketing and reaching riders. And we don’t just show up to hand out magazines (or chapstick?) and have a beer. We bring a trailer with merch and other gear, we register riders for giveaways, and we host bike shows and tattoo parties. We bring something to the party – more than us walking around telling everyone how cool we are. We kick things up a notch – and while doing so, we meet more and more riders. We connect those riders with other riders. It’s networking within the community and why we have more than 200k unique followers across our social media pages and more than 300k subscribers for our print and digital magazines. We connect with RIDERS and BIKERS – and bring them all together!
And it’s not about telling people how great we are or trying to act “tough”, “cool” or simply like an idiot – you can draw your own opinions after seeing who we are. It’s about delivering on our mission.
It’s about serving the riding community and helping to support the businesses and organizations serving them as well. We help promoters and local charities host bigger and better events. We help organizations through the steps of hosting rides, rallies, or other charitable events. We actively SERVE the riding community – and through them, our communities as a whole; because that’s what bikers do.
This is confusing for a lot of people, even those that would fancy themselves competitors or in the same business. We SERVE the riding community. It doesn’t SERVE us. We are here to help RIDERS, not to fawn for their attention. It’s not always easy, and sometimes it gets messy – but that’s our mission. We are called to help and serve our brothers and sisters in need – be they bikers or not. In many cases we are serving Vets, children, and countless others – by supporting the local organizations and events that are supporting and creating awareness. That’s what we do.
This isn’t a holier than thou claim to ask for support. It’s an invitation if you feel so compelled, to come and join us in our mission. Or an invitation to help support our work through advertising or a simple sponsorship – that’s how we support our efforts. Or it’s an invitation to call if you’ve heard anything else about us. If you have questions, by all means, give us a call and let us answer them. If you have doubts, voice them. If you have an event or cause that needs help, let us know. And if you ride or have friends that are looking for a cause – or a way to get involved, let us know. We might have just the opportunity that you’re looking for.
For more information or to ask us a question – email us at Info@ReasonsToRide.com
Come join the ride – it’s a lot of fun and there are an endless number of roads for us to cover (explore!).
Live Strong and Ride Worthy!
Sincerely,
D. A. Smith
Publisher, Reasons To Ride
On the Cover: 75th Annual Devil's Staircase in Oregonia Ohio, October 12-13, 2024. Two days of Hill Climbs with the top racers from across the country going for the National Championship. Beyond the racing it’s the World Famous Party on the Hill with camping, and even the chance to win a NEW Buell Hammerhead 1190. This is one iconic event that gets bigger and better as time goes on!
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
LET’S RIDE! TAG YOUR PHOTOS!
Even if you’re not out riding now, you can still share photos and tag them for our Ride n Win challenge.
Just post up your favorite ride photos on Facebook or Instagram with the hashtag #ReasonsToRide and tell us a little bit about the ride or stop. If we share your photos – you might just score some swag, possibly even an “Official Photographer” shirt! And you’ll be entered into the monthly prize drawings! From there you can possibly even win a new bike, concert tickets, and other cool
MOTORCYCLE MINISTRIES
MARY GILBERT, CMA STATE COORDINATOR
WHY?
“Why are you out here?”
As CMA, we get asked this question quite often. Especially when we are picking up trash or doing something most others won’t. Some have the impression that we do it strictly for donations to support the ministry. That is far from the truth. CMA is supported by its members and IF a donation is given at all, it goes for the outreach portion of the ministry, not the operations of the ministry. So, why are we out here? Because we are a people called by God to bring the gospel to the world that they might know and be set free.
This is our vision: Changing the world, one heart at a time. What does that mean and how does picking up trash or parking a bike do that? Jesus came to serve and said that is the most important thing we could do for one another. Not only does it humble our heart, but it also allows us to express His love through our actions. It all boils down to that one thing…Love.
This is our Mission: To inspire our leaders and members to be the most organized, advanced, equipped, financially stable organization, full of integrity in the motorcycling industry and the Kingdom of God.
Integrity is the key to having a successful ministry of any kind. Are we really who we say we are? Do our actions portray the biblical standards we have set for the ministry? If we are following Jesus, we should be good to go with the values we have established.
Let’s get down to it…we all have standards and practices we follow both as groups and individually. We want to be known for who we are and what we stand for. Try as we might, unless it’s time for a change, we don’t or won’t change our way of doing things too often simply because we think it takes away from our established identity. Sometimes that can work as an advantage, and sometimes it can be quite a disadvantage.
For example: you can pick out a CMA member. You know that by the vest they wear or even a shirt with the CMA colors on it. If the member doesn’t wear anything that identifies them as being part of CMA, you wouldn’t know they were a CMA member.
When it comes to recognizing a Christian a.k.a, a believer, you may not see anything that identifies them as such on their clothing, however, you should be able to pick up by their actions that they are a Christian. If you can’t, then we, as Christians need to take a good look on the inside so that the outside can be lined up with who we say we are.
So, to answer the why on a personal note, I will say this…a lot of life was spent with no direction, no vision, and the sense of no purpose. Oh, it looked like I had it all together on the outside, but not so much on the inside. My why is because you are important to me. You were created to do great things and sometimes we just need a little motivation in the right direction to get things going. The old saying that ‘Iron sharpens Iron’ simply means we need each other and that lines up with another saying of ours in CMA… ‘Here if you need us’ and that, my brothers and sisters, is the true heart of Jesus.
Thunder on the Lake is September 6-8, we will be there with Reasons to Ride/TRO. Also, our State Rally is September 20-22 at Cross Oak Campground, Saint Marys, OH. Camping is available, both tent and RV. Come & join us for a great weekend of ‘Rappin’ up Hope’ and we Hope to see you there!
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
Group Riding, MSTA Sport-Touring Style
Part Two: Finding the Right Riding Group for You
Last time we talked about the concept of sport-touring group riding and how it differs from the more common large and social group riding style. We explained the advantage of having many small groups with a variety of riding styles to choose from. Now we'll discuss individual rider preferences that can help you find individuals and groups that fit your own style, plus we'll explain what to expect at a typical Motorcycle Sport Touring Association (MSTA) event. Even if you never attend an MSTA event, this discussion will help you spot better people to ride with.
The MSTA Find Riding Partners Form(https://flybyweek.com/ridingpartners. html) whether you use it at a rally or not, will help you think about your own preferences and what you are willing to accept with others. The first questions are about what you're looking for- solo or two-up, preferred pace, road types, pavement quality, willing to lead or wanting to follow, maximum number you are willing to ride with.
Then there are questions related to your compatibility with others- do you have a GPS and can you use it with routes, do you use a Bluetooth communicator, are you ATGATT, what type of bike you ride. Thinking this through makes it easier to recognize others you will enjoy riding with.
By the way, here's a tip: If you want to more easily find others to ride with, make the effort to be someone others want to ride with. How to do that? Be willing to lead a ride and have an excellent route in mind or loaded in your GPS.
When you attend MSTA rides and rallies you will meet and ride with the finest people in motorcycling. They are honest, reliable, skilled riders who are safe and serious about riding.
Here's what to expect:
Proper Gear- Showing up in less than full gear will probably make you feel out of place. Although there are no rules, expect MSTA members to be wearing a DOT approved full face helmet, textile or leather motorcycle armored jacket, full-fingered protective gloves, and over the ankle boots, all purpose-made for motorcycling. Some just wear Levis but most have motorcycle pants with at least armored knees.
Motorcycle Maintenance- Check your tires BEFORE you leave home so you don't wind up with bald tread or cord showing. The safety of you and those around you are at risk. Also, a bike in disrepair is more likely to break down. No one wants to spend their day towing someone home because of a poorly maintained bike. Straight pipes or much louder than normal exhausts may not be a safety hazard but are irritating to many.
Bluetooth communicatorsThese have become very popular with club members, with over 70% using them. Sena mesh models are most common and Cardo mesh units are popular too. They enable riders to warn each other of road hazards and animals, know when someone needs to stop, leave the group etc. The leader can alert the group when approaching a turn, slowing for a town, etc. Once past a slower vehicle, the lead rider can be the “eyes up ahead” for the rest of the group, letting them know when it's safe to pass. This makes it easier for the group to stay together.
GPS navigation- Most MSTA members use a Garmin zumo or phone GPS app on their bike. Some don't use them unless they are leading, but it's a good idea for all group members to have it loaded and running. You will always know where you are, and can more easily get back and rejoin the group if you miss a turn or get separated. Most important- voice prompts can alert you when a turn is coming up and that is a big improvement in safety.
Riding Skills and styles vary widely among MSTA members. Some are new to motorcycling, some have been on a bike 40+ years, others are former racers and current track day junkies. We even have some members who are MSF instructors. Given such a diverse community of riders, we offer some safety guidelines.
Good practices:
1. Ride a pace that is comfortable. Our style is non-competitive, so if a rider is faster than you, give them room to pass as long as it's safe. This will alleviate the feeling that you need to ride faster to keep up. The point is to enjoy the ride, so just stay within your limits.
2. Before long the group will self-organize with the faster riders in front. Will the group then get too spread out? No, because...
3. Smart ride leaders know that the fun is in the corners, so there is no need to go super fast on straights. This gives riders who are not as fast an opportunity to catch up.
4. Waiting at turns- Group riders collect at stop signs, route turns and intersections. In places where there isn't room to collect, the group reverts to individual riders waiting until the next rider catches up. Each rider is responsible for the one behind them.
5. Ride in a staggered formation in town and slow traffic, side by side only when stopped. Above 30 MPH or so, ride your own line, but always with at least several seconds between you and the next rider.
A few cautions:
1. "Stunting" will not be tolerated! Riding a wheelie or other such conduct is reason to immediately exclude you from a ride.
2. Passing the leader- There is no official policy on this, but my personal practice is that if you pass the leader, it's a declaration that you are on your own for navigation and finding your way back to the group. I'm not waiting or looking for you.
3. Excessive speed- Be particularly careful about speed when going through the small towns most of our rides take you through.
Ride Safe and Have Fun with Group Riding in MSTA!
Connect with local Ohio Motorcycle Sport Touring Association riders at these monthly breakfasts:
Southwest Ohio Breakfast, 9AM, Sept 21st Village Family Restaurant 144 S. Main St. Waynesville, OH 45068
Central Ohio Breakfast Meet - 8AM Oct 6th Portside Cafe 6515 S High St
Backroads of Appalachia! - Enjoy the fall colors
The Fall Colors are Coming to the Backroads of Appalachia!
Now that we have given you the full story and how our organization was formed to help an entire Region we are ready to bring you one of our absolute favorite times to ride here in Central Appalachia! That is obviously Fall as mother nature brings us one of the most spectacular season changes on the planet here in the oldest mountains on earth. We always step up our schedule for this part of our season each year by bringing you some of the best events, best small towns, best trail routes, and best overlooks, to see these colors first hand! This is the Backroads of Appalachia after all and our home turf and us local riders know exactly where to go and where to direct other riders who come to visit us here each year! Regardless of if you attend one of our Fall Leaves Events, or use our BOA Mobile App, you truly cannot go wrong and you can always reach out to us here for assistance and guidance! Did I forget to mention we have over 5000 GPS-Enabled Miles of it to explore in our Backroads of Appalachia Mobile Application and it is all Free to download and covers 4 Central Appalachian States! That is a lot of beauty to take in and a ride you will never forget! Keep reading!
The Leaves - Colors and When to Expect Them
Now that we have your attention let us tell you about our fall leaves and the best places to come and see them on our
Backroads! As the temperature begins to get cooler here like it has now our leaves begin to change virtually immediately depending on the tree type. At higher elevations, where the climate is colder, scattered trees sometimes begin developing fall colors as early as September with their colors peaking in late October. This is why you see the colors happen first on our mountain tops which is the best place to see these colors and the valleys below for miles! As a matter of fact many trees have started to change colors already and we are still in late August! By the way we call Valleys “Hollers” here and all of us here at Backroads of Appalachia grew up in one! A “Holler” is basically the place or area that runs between the mountains. Then there is “Up the Road” and “Down the Road” which signifies which way you're traveling according to the flow of the river! Now that you know some Appalachian mountain speak let’s get back to those Fall Colors and give you the scoop on the best time to come here and see them. The answer to that question is simple for us. NOW!
Our leaves are already changing and our days now are giving us riders the perfect temperature to ride with clear skies and breathtaking scenery all around! Remember Fall is one of our favorite times of year here so we get all we can ride in right up until our season ends at the end of October! Now let’s talk about those overlooks and the best place to come and SEE our fall colors! Here are some of our favorite choices and remember all of these overlooks and places can be easily found in our BOA Mobile Application in just 3 Clicks!
The Overlooks - Some Of The Best Places to See Those Colors
You cannot really go wrong no matter which direction you head in but here are a few of our favorites in no apparent order!
1. The Dragonslayer HWY 160 - Black Mountain Overlook, The highest Peak in KY!
2. Copperhead Trail KY - Cumberland Falls, The Niagara of the South
3. The Pinnacle - Cumberland Gap - See KY, TN, and VA all in one spot!
4. The Chain - Pine Mountain State- Home of our SCCA Hillclimb on the car side!
5. The Slingshot - Hogg Overlook - Pine Mountain
6. The Knob - High Knob Observation Tower in Norton VA
Any of these locations will blow your mind now and moving into September and the ride to get there is even better! For you 2-ups and Scenery Aficionados who would rather be guided on your journey you're in luck! Each Fall we lay out our ultimate list of rides and events in September and October and ride right up until the leaves have peaked! Even our last ride and event of the season in October is a “Fall Leaves” in KY and TN which covers 2 states! From “The IRON 2.0” Event to our annual “Mountain Mainstreet Invasion”, which is our Kentucky "Fall Leaves Ride" each season, every event on our schedule is specifically designed to showcase our incredible scenery, roads, small mountain towns, and our region, and everybody is welcome here! It is all waiting for you right now on our Facebook pages, on our website under Events, or by downloading our Mobile App and clicking on the Calendar! You have ridden all the rest now come and ride the best and start your Appalachian Adventure with us Today! Find us on Facebook and join us as we bring economic development to our Region motorcycle style! We are Bringing the Bikes to Appalachia!
Best Riding in the U.S! Period! (Especially in the Fall)
Jay Fryman (Frydaddy)
Founder, Whitley County Motorcycle Group
Backroads of Appalachia Journalism Team
RtR CHAMPIONSHIP BIKE SHOW SERIES
PRESENTED BY ERSKINE LAW
september 2024 REPORT
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!
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!
FINISHING OUT 2024 AND COUNTING DOWN TO 2025
This has been one for the books. We’ve already hosted more than a dozen bike shows this summer, and we’re not done for the season. While most of the shows were repeat – with some in their 4th, 6th, and 9th – even 12th year; we did have a number of first year shows. For each of these new shows, though, we were blessed to have veteran exhibitors make the trip out to join us and help introduce our series to the new folks.
As we look towards 2025, we have begun reserving dates for next year’s shows. Priority will be given to those having already hosted a show – and then we will open things up to new venues and events. We encourage everyone to check in as soon as possible if you’re interested in hosting a show in 2025. Even if you’ve hosted before – dates obviously change and we need to get everyone down as soon as possible. So, please let us know your thoughts and what date(s) you’re looking at.
Please Note – We will be adding new states and are considering additional regional and national rallies for 2025. If you’d like to discuss bringing the Bike Show Series to your event – get in touch as soon as possible. BikeShowInfo@gmail.com
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. For select shows there are also pins and buttons for those exhibiting. These are all provided free of any additional cost for those registering in advance for these shows, courtesy our sponsor – Erskine Law.
Expanded Sound Competitions
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 Rochester Hills Bike 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
You can also reserve your 2024 Reasons To Ride Bike Show Series YEARBOOK at www. ReasonsToRide.com
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.
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
RTR CHAMPIONSHIP BIKE SHOW SERIES
UPCOMING 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!
14th ANNUAL GENEVA THUNDER ZONE
Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio – Saturday, September 7th
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
FREEDOM BIKE SHOW 2nd YEAR!
Dick Scott’s Freedom Powersports, Livonia Michigan – Saturday, Sept 28th
Due to the forecast, we decided to reschedule this Bike Show for later in the season – and as luck would have it, there’s even going to be an Official Factory Indian Demo Truck on site for the day. That means while you’re checking out some of the custom bikes and even vintage Indians – you can take some of the new Indians for a spin!
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 an Indian and 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 – or even Indian Dirt Bikes! RtR photographers will also be on site, shooting for potential magazine features and to showcase the bikes being shown.
ROCHESTER HILLS CUSTOM & VINTAGE BIKE SHOW SPECIAL CHARITY EVENT!
Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, Rochester Hills MI –Sunday, October 6th
Exhibitor Registration 11a-1p / Judging and Voting 1p-3p / Awards Ceremony to Follow
On Saturday, June 15th, an unimaginable act of violence struck a community park in Rochester Hills, Michigan, affecting families who were simply enjoying a day out. Nine victims, ranging in age from 4 to 78, suffered gunshot wounds, and countless others are still grappling with the trauma. These individuals were targeted randomly, and now it’s time for our community to come together and offer support.
Reasons To Ride and Erskine Law have joined forces to host a community bike show at the historic Van Hoosen Farm & Museum in Rochester Hills. With the backing of local businesses and partners, we’re inviting EVERYONE to join us for a fun-filled day at the park.
100% of the registration fees from the bike show, along with other event revenues, will go directly to a fund for the victims of the splash pad incident. Neither Reasons To Ride, Erskine Law, nor any of our sponsors will retain any funds from this event; everything will be donated in support of the victims.
All bikes—regardless of make, model, or year—are welcome to participate in this special event. Beyond supporting a great cause, the day promises to be memorable as we showcase bikes at this fantastic venue. In addition to the bike show, we’re working on adding extra activities and entertainment to ensure there’s something for the whole family!
For more information, please check-out, follow, and share our Facebook event.
If you’d like to help sponsor or be a part of this event, please email us at BikeShowInfo@gmail.com
Community volunteers are welcomed!
INTERESTED IN HOSTING AN RTR BIKE SHOW AT YOUR LOCATION?
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
Bike show photos by David Eggert, Dan Hare, and Tyler Roberts
75th Annual Devil’s Staircase
PRO HILLCLIMB National Championship
Once again the top hillclimb racers from across the country will head to Oregonia for the finale of the AMA Pro Hillclimb season. This will be the 75th year that the Dayton Motorcycle Club has hosted Devil’s Staircase – one of the most challenging and infamous hills in the history of the sport. It’s an adrenaline charged event that draws from throughout the Midwest, as spectators come to witness the brave / crazed racers rocket up the hill. It’s a simple challenge – get to the top of the hill as fast as you can, while remaining in control of your bike.
There are few motorcycle events – anywhere – with the history and notoriety of the Devil’s Staircase. Generations of riders have traveled to the hills of Oregonia, Ohio for the both the Hillclimb races and the “World Famous Party on the Hill”. Thousands gather to celebrate both the racing and the old school motorcycling atmosphere each year. With an entire field full of motorcycles and thousands hiking up the hills with milk jugs full of refreshments, it’s truly a sight to be seen. The Devil’s Staircase is hosted by the Dayton Motorcycle Club one of the oldest clubs in the country – being founded in 1910, over 110 years ago! And for this special 75th Edition, they’ve kicked things up to a whole new level.
TWO DAYS OF HILLCLIMB RACING!
For years now, the Devil’s Staircase has served as the final stop on the Pro Hillclimb Series, and the October runs up the hill have determined the National Champion. This year, things are kicked up with something new.
The summer long Pro Hillclimb race series will still have regional champions on the West and East, but new to 2024 we will take the top 16 overall athletes from each side and have them battle it out at the legendary Devils Staircase for one overall national champion. The Dayton Motorcycle Club has built a “west style” hill next to the traditional Staircase hill to provide the best of both worlds for the championship in October.
On Saturday Oct. 12th all 32 athletes from both sides will compete on the “west style” hill in 450, X-climb and Premier class. Sunday they will do it all over again on the “east style” hill to prove who’s the best in the country. The athlete with the best overall results from both days will be crowned AMA Pro Racing’s American Hillclimb National Champion.
This year we have 2 HILLS to run over 2 DAYS, we have taken out all the trees on the left side of the hill and have built a "west" coast style hill with turns, jumps, ledges and a vertical wall at the top.
The top 16 racers from the west coast will battle the top 16 racers from the east coast over 2 days to decide the national champion.
The west coast hill runs on Saturday Oct. 12th with our traditional east coast hill on Sunday Oct. 13th
INTRODUCING: The Buell HAMMERHEAD 1190!
For this special 75th Anniversary Edition of the Devil’s Staircase, the Dayton Motorcycle Club is welcoming the BUELL MOTORCYCLE COMPANY on as a Presenting Sponsor, and as luck would have it – they are bringing a bike with them! And not just any bike, but a new 2024 Buell Hammerhead 1190 – which they are going to be giving away as a door prize! Yup, just like years past – one lucky person will have their name drawn and will win this incredible motorcycle! The person drawn must be present to win the bike and additional details apply, available from the Dayton Motorcycle Club.
WIN THIS BIKE! (Well, not this exact one..)
Camping!
Once again, for those looking to make a weekend of the event – there’s camping around the perimeter of the car parking lot as in previous years. Camping opens Friday at noon, and there are no hookups – just porta jons set up in the field. Pretty much as basic as possible, but it’s a comfortable setup for only $20 per person for the weekend. There are a limited number of 20ftx70ft RV spots will be available for $50 for the weekend. These rates do NOT include admission to the races. For more details, visit DaytonMc.com
75th Annual Devil’s
PRO HILLCLIMB National Championship
Hosted by The Dayton Motorcycle Club www.DaytonMC.com
1086 Corwin Road, Oregonia OH 45054
Saturday, October 12th ($25 Admission)
Sunday, October 13th ($30 Admission)
FREE PARKING, Children under 12 Free NO PETS on grounds. NO CARRY-IN Alcoholic Beverages
Thanks to the Dayton Motorcycle Club and Pro Hillclimb Racing for photos.
9/06/24 06:00 PM
Bike Night Davison Eagles
Davison Eagles 3589 3270 N State Rd, Davison MI
9/06/24 06:00 PM
Geneva Thunder Zone Iron and Ink Tattoo Party
The Sunset Bar 5483 Lake Rd, Geneva, OH 44041-9425
9/06/24 06:00 PM
Bike Night Support Event VFW Post 6941 207 n main st, wellington, oh
9/07/24 12:00 AM
2024 Justen Caris Memorial Poker Run
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
Visit us on Facebook or for up to the minute event listings, ReasonsToRide.com
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
9/07/24 09:00 AM
FestiFair Arts and Crafts Festival Uptown Marysville Ohio Shopping District 112 S Main St, Marysville, OH 43040
9/07/24 09:30 AM
9th Annual Motorcycle Ride for the Veterans Harley-Davidson of Xenia 1213 Cincinnati Ave, Xenia, OH 45385
9/07/24 09:00 AM
Rise and Ride to Geneva on the lake
Johnny's Pizzeria and grill 12399 Kinsman Rd, Newbury, OH 44065
9/08/24 01:00 PM
Home Brewed Bikes
Stones Throw Brewing 101 Button Hall Ave, Goose Creek, SC 29445
9/08/24 10:00 AM
1st Annual Car/Bike Show
Vickery Pub and Grub 1573 County Rd 268, Vickery, OH 43464
9/08/24 10:30 AM
Cowboy's Benefit Poker Ride Corner Saloon
7403 S Telegraph Rd, Temperance, MI 48182
9/10/24 06:00 PM
Knights of the Inferno Arrowhead Chapter
Cancun Mexican Bar & Grill
3350 Village Dr Middletown, Oh 45005
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
9/12/24 - 9/15/24 THE WALL THAT HEALS
Havener Park 4085 Liberty Rd Delaware OH 43015
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
9/14/24 11:00 AM
Misty's Wish Poker Run
Union House Bar and Restaurant 2715 Brookpark Rd, Cleveland, OH 44134
9/14/24 11:00 AM
Ray C's Harley-Davidson Fall Open House
Ray C's Harley-Davidson 1491 S Lapeer Rd, Lapeer, MI 48446
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
9/15/24 08:00 AM
Walnecks Motorcycle Swap Meet
Morgan County Fairground 1749 Hospital Rd. Martinsville, IN 46151
9/19/24 12:00 AM 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 11:00 AM
3rd Annual Dayton Vintage Motorcycle Show and Swap Meet
Rip Rap Roadhouse 6024 Rip Rap Rd Dayton, Oh 45424
9/21/24 09:00 AM
Ride 4 Recovery!
Radiant Life Church 8400 Hartman Rd, Wadsworth, OH 44281
9/21/24 12:00 PM
American Legion rider #426 fast Cars and Motorcycle with Pin up Girls Contest 2423 West Jefferson Ave, Trenton, MI 48183
9/21/24 10:00 AM
Fall Car and Bike Show
VFW post 4139
128 Daley Rd. Lapeer, MI 48446
9/22/24 09:00 AM
MEGADETH
Temple Live Cleveland 3615 Euclid Avenue Cleveland, Ohio 44115 (216) 881-6350
9/28/24 12:00 AM
Freedom Bike Show
Dick Scott Freedom Powersport
29577 Five Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48154
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
9/28/24 09:00 AM
Katie Teets Bradshaw Car-TruckBike Show
Skyline Harley-Davidson 140 Independence Dr, Winchester, VA 22602
9/28/24 10:00 AM
Puppy Meet and Greet and Fundraiser
South East Harley-Davidson 23105 Aurora Road, Bedford Heights OH 44146
9/29/24 12:00 PM
Zeppe's Clam Bake
Zeppe's Tavern & Pizzeria 11110 Kinsman Rd Newbury, Oh 44065
10/06/24 01:00 PM
Home Brewed Bikes
Stones Throw Brewing 101 Button Hall Ave, Goose Creek, SC 29445
10/06/24 01:00 PM
Rochester Hills Bike Show and Family BBQ
Van Hoosen Farm 924 Runyon Rd, Rochester, MI 48306
10/08/24 06:00 PM
Knights of Inferno BIKE NIGHT at CANCUN Middletown OH
Cancun Mexican Bar & Grill 3350 Village Dr Middletown, Oh 45005
10/12/24 10:00 AM
75th Annual Devil's Staircase AMA PRO HILLCLIMB AMA PRO HILLCLIMB 1086 Corwin Rd, Oregonia OH 45054
10/12/24 12:00 PM RT 30 WAKE THE DEAD SHAWSHANK ANNIVERSARY Route 30 H-D 350 Tarhe Trail Upper Sandusky OH 419-294-4915 rt30hd.com
ZANESVILLE, OH
Skillet Chicken Pot Pie
INGREDIENTS:
• 1.5 lbs chicken breast cut into 1 in pieces
• 12 oz bag frozen peas & carrots
• 1 russet potato diced
• 1 small onion diced
• 1 tbsp garlic minced
• ½ cup chicken broth low sodium
• 1 can fat free cream of chicken soup
• 1 can biscuits cut into ¼’s
• 1 tbsp olive oil
INSTRUCTIONS:
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
• Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once hot, add 1 tbsp olive oil.
• Add minced garlic and chopped onion.
• Cook for 3 mins, until onions are translucent.
• Add chopped pieces of cut chicken breast.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Cook until chicken is no longer pink about 8-10 mins.
• Add the potatoes and bag of frozen peas & carrots.
• Cook for about 5 mins.
• Add in the soup and broth.
• Stir until everything is well mixed.
• Turn off the heat.
• Top with the biscuit pieces, evenly spread out.
• Bake at 350 for 30 minutes (add 5 minutes if needed).
• Let cool for 10 minutes and enjoy!
CHEESY POTATO PUFFS (AIR FRYER RECIPE)
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chives, finely chopped
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil spray
INSTRUCTIONS:
• Prepare the Potato Mixture:In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped chives, beaten egg, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
• Shape the Puffs:Take small portions of the potato mixture and roll them into balls or shape them into small patties.
• Preheat the Air Fryer:Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
• Prepare for Air Frying:Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Place the potato puffs in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Lightly spray the tops of the potato puffs with olive oil for a golden finish.
• Air Fry the Puffs:Air fry the potato puffs at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
• Garnish and Serve:Remove the potato puffs from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
• Garnish with extra chopped chives and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired.
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!
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