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MAIN OFFICE: 12467 Kinsman Rd, Burton, OH 44021 • (440) 273-9000 • (440) 425-0314 fax RETAIL STORE & OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday - Friday • 10am - 4pm PUBLISHER & EDITOR Derek Armstrong Smith • ThunderRoadsOhio@gmail.com • (440) 785-7331 SALES & MARKETING Iron Cowboy Productions, LLC • info.ironcowboy@gmail.com • (440) 678-8608 Northwest Ohio Area • Mike Stock • mikestock.tro@gmail.com Cincinnati Area • Doug & Cheryl Taylor • dougtaylor.tro@gmail.com DIGITAL MEDIA Timothy Cermak • DigitalMedia.TRO@Gmail.com • (440) 273-9000 LAYOUT & DESIGN Bob Mazur • Bobmazurphoto.com SUBSCRIPTIONS TO THUNDER ROADS OHIO are available for $34.95. Check or Money Order, payable to Iron Cowboy Productions, can be sent to: Iron Cowboy Productions 12467 Kinsman Rd, Burton, OH 44021
FROM THE PUBLISHER The Riding Season that Wasn’t!
As we close out the summer and head into the Fall, it’s hard not to look back and simply shake your head over how 2020 has turned out to be thus far. Who could have imagined this year as we began planning the riding season last winter. So many rides, rallies, bike shows, and bike nights – all cancelled. We’ve been able to sneak in a few rides here and there, but the ever changing state mandates and threat of liability looming most events were forced to cancel. Even our basic ride stops have been forced to close or dramatically limit what they could do most of the year. It’s been a crazy year – but there have been a few highlights and possibly we are starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel. Sturgis seems to have gone off without too many issues – although at least one woman lost her pants after failing to stay “socially distant” from a Bison. We were also able to finally hold our RIDE TO BE HEARD, riding in support of Vietnam Veterans. As far as TRO is concerned, we’ve been forced to essentially return to the bare essentials as businesses throughout the state were forced to shut down or operate under such unimaginable restrictions. We’ve revamped a lot of things and tightened up as much as we could in order to keep publishing and supporting our riding community. I’m sure you’ve noticed the changes – all done to keep things viable and speak to the new reality. We’ve shifted to much more of a digital / online focus and strengthened our partnership with ReasonsToRide. com At our core – however – we are a RIDING magazine. We are all about RIDING and getting out and exploring new roads. Normally that would also include meeting new people and seeing old friends, which can’t do as much of now – but we can still ride. As we head into September and what is undoubtedly my favorite time to ride in Ohio – I’d encourage you to get out and ride! Get out and explore the roads and possibly support the local businesses that cater to us riders. They need to see more of us – if we can expect to see them back out supporting us next year. While we’ve had to suspend many aspects of our Thunder Run ride program and our traditional ride stops, you can STILL check in and post up pics to your Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages. And you can STILL WIN! Just check in at different places while you’re out riding and include the hashtag #ThunderRun in your comments. It’s that easy. As a matter of fact, this month you’ll have a chance to win a brand new 2020 Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Standard from the City Mission. You can purchase tickets for a chance to win the bike – and help support this great cause; but you can also win by simply posting pics to your social media. As always – we wish everyone safe travels while out riding, and we encourage you to take the proper precautions to protect yourself and your family from the virus.
NATIONAL FOUNDERS
Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon 1528 Matlock Drive / Chapmansboro, TN 37035 Office 615-792-0040 / Fax: 615-792-7580 email: thunderroadsfounders@yahoo.com ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OCCUPIED BY THE ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LIABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PERSON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND CLAIMS MADE BY ADVERTISERS AND AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN, AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE POLICY OF THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES NOT PROMOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.
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As frustrating as this year is, we always have next year – if we are fortunate and take the proper precautions. Let’s just focus on that. Ride STRONG and Stay Safe Folks! And I look forward to seeing you out on the road! Sincerely, D. Armstrong Smith
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TABLE OF CONTENTS FEATURES
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KENNEDY REPORT
SPORT TOURING
REKLUSE AUTO CLUTCH
DEPARTMENTS 02
FROM THE PUBLISHER
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ROAD TALES
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MOTORCYCLE MINISTRY
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BUCKEYE THUNDER RUN
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CALENDAR FEATURE
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TRO NETWORK: Where to get the mags!
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SERVICE SPECIALISTS
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MARKETPLACE
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UPCOMING MOTORCYCLE EVENTS
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FUNNY STUFF
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RECIPES
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WORD SEARCH
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SPONSOR LISTING
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SCAVENGER HUNT
KNOBLE MOTO
ON THE COVER: Feature shot taken by D. Smith at the 2019 Geneva Thunder Zone Bike Show - side photos also by D. Smith.
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As Told By
THE IRON COWBOY READER’S RIDES TRO is teaming up with ReasonsToRide. com to offer NEW Reader’s Rides features both within the magazine and online. Readers are encouraged to submit pics and information on their bikes to ReadersRides@ ReasonsToRide.com. Submissions will be reviewed for possible inclusion in upcoming print or online features, or possibly for a dedicated feature or sponsored photo shoot where practical. Readers having their bikes chosen for a cover or dedicated feature will receive special RTR and Bike Show Series swag – along with copies of the printed magazines. There will also be opportunities to get printed copies or even posters made of the features.
9th Annual Ride with a Mission 2020 Saturday, September 12th, Cleveland, OH
“The Ride is on and we are making adjustments to adhere to coronavirus safety guidelines.” Join hundreds of riders and enthusiasts for a police-escorted cruise around Cleveland as we rally around making a difference for men, women, and children experiencing homelessness. This is a GREAT cause that we’ve been proud to support since the launch of their ride. I even come out and help serve Christmas Dinner out at the main campus each year – it’s really an incredible organization that really makes a direct impact on the lives of many in our own community. For the past eight years we've had fantastic weather, an abundance of coveted door prizes, and a chance to win an amazing raffle bike. Every participant receives one raffle ticket with their registration and will have their chance at a Harley-Davidson® 2020 Electra Glide ® Standard. Additional raffle tickets are available for purchase now, and make a great gift. Registration begins at 9am at 18120 Puritas Ave. l Kickstands up at Noon l After Party at 1pm at 5310 Carnegie Ave. For more information visit TheCityMission.org/ride
Help us KICK START the Riding Season - Sign the Petition - https://thunderroadsohio.us/2020-petition/ 6
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Follow us on Facebook at THUNDER ROADS OHIO for updates, photos, and more - updated DAILY. www.facebook.com/ThunderRoadsOhio
THUNDER RUN UPDATE
Due to COVID 19 and the countless challenges and concerns that it presents both to venues and riders, we have decided to SUSPEND many of the traditional aspects of the Buckeye Thunder Run. HOWEVER, riders are STILL able to win prizes every time that they ride by simply checking in at their favorite Ride Stops on Facebook. When you’re out riding, you simply need to take a picture of yourself, your bike, your friends and post it to Facebook on your personal page. On the post, “check-in” at the location and include the hashtag #ThunderRun. You simply need to include #ThunderRun in the comment section of your post. For instance – “Stopped by Bear’s Vintage Metal Works in Ravenna to pick up my Thunder Roads and ended up getting a NEW SEAT!" #ThunderRun We will be scanning for the #ThunderRun hashtag and awarding prizes throughout the year - including the chance to win a 2020 Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Standard! So get out and RIDE to WIN!
JOIN THE CREW:
Opportunities for local riders to help support their riding community. With the 2020 Riding Season finally getting underway, it’s clear that there will be a much greater demand for local coverage across the state as more riders will be staying closer to home for smaller rides and events. This means that TRO will need even more help covering these events – both getting the word out in advance and taking pictures and covering the events as they happen. As always, Local Road Reps will have the opportunity to make some extra cash covering their area – if they’d like. But for many, the real appeal is being able to help these local events succeed and share their story with the rest of the state! The cool part, though, is that you don’t have to sacrifice one for the other. You can both help the local riding community and make some $$$ doing what you love! How cool is that?! For more information, email ThunderRoadsOhio@gmail.com THUNDER ROADS® OHIO MAGAZINE
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Tickets & Information Now Available at
$20 Tickets • Available at Great Lakes Outdoor Supply, Geauga VFW, American Legion Posts, and GeaugaVets.com
SPORT FEST
GEAUGA VETERANS
MOTORCYCLE MINISTRIES Well Happy September! Soon we will be ‘Falling’ into our little comfort zones of chili time and fireside chats, smelling the beautiful autumn air around us as we roll down the roads to catch that last few weeks of comfortable riding time. It does seem as though it hasn’t been much of a summer season though, we missed a lot of your faces and we stayed more than played. For the most part, I believe we have made the best of it…at least I am hoping so. We have seen a lot of you out riding and have tried to bless as many bikes as we can while out and about. One thing for sure, if you see a CMA’r out riding, just ask and they will gladly bless you and your bike! Keep that in mind when you ride, we won’t bang your head with the good book, we will just pray for you and bless the machine you ride. It’s our heart, it’s what we do. Anytime, anywhere. You see CMA is about you. We go out on our motorcycles into the community and brotherhood and sisterhood of Bikers because we are a part of the community you are part of. We ride because we understand the freedom that comes with it. We understand the bonds that are forged through adversity and pain; joy and sorrow; laughter and tears. We are not about judgement, but sacrifice, because we know in our obedience to be there in the time of need, the blessings outweigh the sacrifice. It’s who we are, it’s what we do and the reason we are here is for you. Jesus gave the ultimate sacrifice when He gave His life for all. It didn’t matter to Him who or where we had been, all that mattered to Him was that His obedience would bring you eternal life. So, it is but a small thing we do to give you a cup of water, hot coffee, and a little conversation. We will always pray for you, even when you don’t know it or see us doing it. Not because we think you need it, but because we want to cover you with the same love and protection we have. It’s the CMA way. The man that started our organization in 1975, Herb Shreve, went out with his son and bought two motorcycles to maintain the father/ son relationship. As they rode, they ran into so many more bikers and God laid it on Herb to serve Him by sharing the love of God to the motorcycling community. Now we are well over 200,000+ members, serving in over 40 countries all over the world and loving every minute of it! We are celebrating 45 years this year, Rex and I have been involved with them for 18 years, members for 16 years and we have not ever regretted saying yes to the vest! Be looking for us out there, our eyes are opened for you as well as our hearts! We ride for you to decide! Mary G.
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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. TRO welcomes the opportunity to work with established motorcycle ministries. Feel free to share upcoming events with us as well, by emailing information to Events.ThunderRoads@gmail.com
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Pistol Caliber Carbines chambered in .380 Auto - 3895TS 9mm - 995TS 40S&W - 4095TS 10mm - 1095TS and 45Auto - 4595TS Choose yours today! AMERICAN MADE AMERICAN PROMISE
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Basic Rider (BRS)
Get Endorsed
For newer riders. Earn a waiver for the motorcycle endorsement skill test. No experience necessary. Motorcycles and helmets provided.
Basic for Returning Riders (BRS-RR)
Skill test waiver course for riders over 18 who have been riding with a temporary permit for at least 1 year. Also great for those returning to riding after an extended time away.
Basic Rider-2 (BRS-2)
Skills test waiver course for experienced riders over 18 who have been riding with temporary permits and would like to get training and endorsed. Also a great early-season refresher for experienced endorsed riders to bond with a new-to-you motorcycle, or gain experience and improve control. Endorsed riders may ride with a passenger.
Learn More: motorcycle.ohio.gov
Become an instructor: motorcycle.ohio.gov/instructors.stm
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KENNEDY STYLE
by: Denise Kennedy, TRO
MotoAmerica is alive and well! Pro motorcycle racing was alive and well at Pittsburgh International Raceway (PittRace) for Round Four held August 7-9. About an hour and forty-minute drive from Cleveland, PittRace is a beautiful facility with numerous elevation changes and extremely fast corners and straights to maneuver. For those of you not familiar with MotoAmerica, this is the series where the big boys come to play. From Superbike, Stock 1000, Supersport, Twins, Liqui Moly Junior Cup and the Mini Cup all were action packed and brought fans to their feet. Cameron Beaubier was again the class of the field in Superbike. Extremely close racing was the norm in Stock 1000 and Supersport where position and lead changes were many. Liqui Moly Junior Cup is an entry level series that is open to riders between the ages of 14 and 25. This series replaced the previous KTM Cup and is an opportunity to showcase these kids talents before moving on to the next level. MotoAmerica mini cup is a youth program featuring three classes: 110cc; 160cc for riders up to 14 years of age and 190cc bikes for riders over the age of 15. Mini Cup races were run on the karting tracks at three events for this season. It is also an opportunity for these youngsters to experience racing in front of not only family, but real race fans and they did not disappoint. Unlike other forms of racing, the competitors welcome the opportunity to interact with fans. The North Paddock was filled with haulers and riders available for autographs and photos. It is not unusual to see a pro rider cruise on their pit bike through the camping areas. After racing on the track ends competition continues. Remember these folks are also riders not just spectators. Slow drags brought out fans of all ages to compete in a little good clean fun. After all that is happening in our country now, it was a great release to take in a little racing action and a chance to hang out with family. MotoAmerica at Pittsburgh International Raceway is an event that I look forward to every year. Perhaps put it on your calendar for next year. It is well worth the trip.
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Sport Touring Corner By Norm Kern, MSTA Editor / ReasonsToRide.com Contributor
“Should I buy heated grips or heated
A Dad's Dream Fulfilled: Riding With My Son in the Smoky Mountains to teach him the proper mechanics of riding in the dirt.He took to riding immediately and we enjoyed our time together in the dirt while I bided my time until we rode on the street.
This month I'd like to introduce my friend Dan Steinberg, a long time MSTA (Motorcycle Sport Touring Association) member from Chicago, Illinois. We have ridden together at many MSTA rallies and he is a strong supporter of the club. I was delighted to hear about his riding experiences with his son, something that many of us have dreamed about or treasured in our own life experience.
Fast forward to earlier this year. Matt passed his written motorcycle exam in January and was issued his riding permit. To get him ready to ride this spring, I had him read Keith Code’s “Twist of the Wrist”, Jim Ford’s “The Art of Riding Smooth” (a book devoted to riding in the Appalachian Mountains), and had him go through the online Street Skills course (that I first saw in a recent MSTA STAReview magazine issue). I wanted him to understand the basic mechanics of street riding. At the International Motorcycle show in early February I got him fully outfitted in protective gear. All we had to do was wait for good weather.
Here's Dan's story: Some might describe me as an “avid” motorcyclist, but the fact that I own 9 motorcycles in three different states probably puts me in the “healthily addicted” category. To me, there is no better feeling than piloting a motorcycle on a perfectly paved mountain road and no better place to ride than the Great Smoky Mountains. I owned my first dirt bike, a Honda XR75, when I was 13 years old. And from the moment I took off on two motorized wheels, I was hooked. A 1983 Honda V45 Magna that I used in college my senior year was my first street bike and, with it, my passion for riding grew. The fun and freedom street riding offered was always new and exciting. My first road trip was from Chicago up to the motorcycle races at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. A group of ten, including one of my best friends on his beautiful red Kawasaki GPZ 550, foolishly rode up there in the summer of 1991 with no helmets or protective gear. Once we entered the gates of Road America, I had my first experience at a race, but more eyeopening was to see that the majority of the fans who rode to the race wore protective gear. They also had accessories to make their trips more comfortable and safer. I did not even have a tank bag at the time. I learned a few things on that trip: First, more than ever, I knew that sport touring was something I was truly passionate about; Second, in order to more fully enjoy riding and doing so safely, I needed to improve my riding skills; Third, I would always ride with protective gear; and lastly, after watching a father and his son gear up and head out on their bikes, I hoped that someday I would have that same experience of riding with my own son. This story is about that dream fulfilled. My 17-yer-old son was born in June 2003. From the moment he was born, I was looking forward to not only our first ride together, but our first trip to the Smoky Mountains. Matt’s first riding experience came at the age of seven. I took him to Gary LaPlante’s MotoVentures riding school in California 20 20
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Fortunately, Chicago had a mild winter, so in early March Matt had his first ride on a street bike, a 2016 Triumph Street Triple R. For about an hour he did laps in a large high school parking lot and was immediately comfortable on his bike. He was ready for a ride around the city. This was in the early days of COVID-19, just a few weeks before Chicago went into full lockdown. The streets were sparse and it gave Matt an opportunity to build up his skill and confidence. Our first day out on the bikes was wonderful. The following Saturday Matt had his first ride on country roads in southwest Wisconsin. Before this ride we talked about “slow in and fast out” of corners, decisive inputs, look deep into every corner and always have proper lane positioning, all the basic mechanics they teach in books and at the riding schools I shared with him. That day we covered 168 miles and Matt rode smoothly, safely and with excellent control of his motorcycle. Most importantly, he loved riding! I said to him on the way home that, if you loved riding on the rough and broken pavement of Wisconsin, just wait until you ride in North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and in the mountains of northwest Georgia. I then began thinking about when I could take Matt to Asheville, North Carolina, and have us ride together on my favorite roads.
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I was looking forward to the Spring, hoping that the virus would be contained and the country would get back to normal. As we moved through April, it became apparent that Illinois was not going to open up anytime soon. The remainder of Matt’s junior year would be completed via eLearning, and my office was to be closed until July, so we decided that now would be the perfect time to escape into the mountains and escape we did! We secured a house in Asheville, loaded up his Triumph in the back of my pickup, and headed to North Carolina.
Riding with Matt in the mountains was better than I ever could have imagined and I will cherish this time with him forever. Our sport is unique and must be experienced firsthand for anyone to fully appreciate. Any chance you get, introduce sport riding/touring to everyone you can, especially to the younger generation. Let them experience for themselves the same joy we all get out of riding!
On the way down I explained to Matt that although these roads, to me, are the best our great country has to offer, they are challenging, and all have elements of risk that need to be respected. I also told him that, by the way he was riding, I had great confidence in him. He was ready to conquer these roads, and in doing so, would also understand why his dad travels so far to ride. Over the first few days we were in Asheville, I took Matt on route 74A to Lake Lure, up NC 9 and Old Fort Road to Black Mountain and on other surrounding Asheville-area back roads. This prepared him for his first group ride led by Doug Pippin, MSTA route master and all round great rider. 2009-05.jpg Doug took us on a route that covered many types of road surfaces that included everything from tight switchbacks to fast sweepers. Matt handled them all, riding safely, in control and having a blast. I could not have been more proud of him. Over the next two weeks Matt and I danced with our bikes together on many of my favorite roads, including: NC 28, 80, 226A, 19W, 209, 129, 321, Roan Mountain, and The Cherohala Skyway. We even stopped at The Tail of the Dragon. Since we hit the Gap on a Saturday, we passed on riding it as it’s always a bit too crowded to enjoy on a weekend. We are saving this for our next trip down. The Snake, the Back of the Dragon, and the great roads of Virginia and Georgia await us.
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Connect with local Ohio Motorcycle Sport Touring Association riders at these monthly breakfasts: Southwest Ohio Breakfast, 9AM September 19 Village Family Restaurant 144 S. Main St. Waynesville, OH 45068 Central Ohio Breakfast, 8AM, October 4 Portside Cafe 6515 S High St Lockbourne, OH 43137
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ReasonsToRide.com FACTORY FEATURE
The Rekluse Auto Clutch: Everything You Need to Know Editor’s Note: We recently became familiar with Rekluse and joined with them on a Veteran service project that we will be sharing in an upcoming issue. We’ve found that they have some incredible products that really could be a life changer for many folks – offering the ability to easily ride without using the clutch lever as much. While this is an incredible convenience for some – it offers the chance to ride when they might otherwise be nable. We’ve also discovered that despite years of incredible success and proven reliability in the off-road and racing world – many street riders are still unaware of the opportunities Rekluse offers. For that reason, we are sharing this article to introduce you to one of our newest partners. Whether you’re a street rider or a dirt rider, one of the critical components that have a significant effect on rideability and traction is your engine’s clutch. The clutch is responsible for transmitting power from the crankshaft to the final drive of your machine. Traditionally, powersports machines are offered with manual transmissions and use wet, dry, or slipper clutches. At Rekluse, we specialize in highperformance clutch solutions that are easily installable into engines traditionally utilizing wet clutches. Auto clutches have inherent advantages over the other clutch types mentioned. Before considering an auto clutch, it’s important to understand all the essential details of what an auto clutch is, how it works, and the numerous benefits that street and dirt riders can expect. Different auto clutch options are available depending on the type of riding and budget, so it’s important to understand which one is right for you.
Auto clutches have inherent advantages, but it's important to understand all the critical details to know what's right for you. you have mastered clutchless shifting, the clutch lever is still used when shifting gears.
A unique characteristic of Rekluse auto clutches is their ability to retain engine braking when the throttle is chopped.
An auto clutch should not be confused with an automatic transmission. Shifting gears is still an essential aspect of riding an auto clutch-equipped machine. An auto clutch is also different than a slipper clutch. When aboard a slipper clutch equipped machine and the throttle is chopped, the clutch disengages. When riding an auto clutch-equipped machine and the throttle is chopped, power transmission to the final drive is maintained, effectively maintaining engine braking.
How does an auto clutch work and what is an EXP disk? Centrifugal force is the governing force that allows an auto clutch to work. Centrifugal force is the resulting force that acts on an object rotating around a centerline. The heavier the rotating object or, the faster the object is spinning, the more inertia it will have, and the more force it will exert. An auto clutch features a special clutch disk that is designed to utilize the principle
What is an auto clutch? An auto clutch is a type of clutch that automatically engages and disengages the based on engine RPM, and ultimately, the power being transmitted to the final drive. The ability to engage and disengage the clutch via rider input through actuation of the clutch lever is retained; however, rider modulation of the clutch isn't necessary in many situations. An auto clutch allows easy starting and stopping without using the clutch lever, and virtually eliminates engine stalling. Unless 24
Rekluse auto clutches automatically engage and disengage the clutch based on engine RPM. The option for rider modulation of the clutch via the lever is retained, but unnecessary, except for during shifting.
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of centrifugal force. The Rekluse clutch disk that gives an auto clutch it’s automatic properties is called an EXP disk. The EXP disk essentially acts as a friction disk that responds to engine speed.
The Rekluse EXP disk is the key ingredient to Rekluse's auto clutch formula. It's a friction disk built to respond to the centrifugal force of the spinning engine. The EXP disk is comprised of wedges that are positioned circumferentially around the clutch disk. The wedges are tuned and designed to respond to increases and decreases in engine speed. As engine speed increases, centrifugal force increases, and the wedges in the EXP disk exert an outward force on the two halves of the EXP disk, causing them to expand and the clutch to engage. As engine speed decreases, centrifugal force decreases, and the force exerted by the wedges decreases in the EXP disk, resulting in contraction of the two halves, which causes the clutch to disengage. To ensure the clutch is disengaged at idle, the clutch is set up so that a small gap of about 0.030” exists between the clutch pack and pressure plate. Off idle, as the throttle is applied and engine RPM increases, the EXP disk expands outwards, overcomes the installed gap, and engages the clutch. Since the auto clutch automatically engages at engine speeds higher than idle, the functionality of the clutch lever and traditional clutch deactivation/actuation methods can be retained without any modification. Finally, because an auto clutch works exactly like a standard clutch above idle, features associated with traditional clutch operation such as engine braking are also retained.
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Depending on your application and the auto clutch package you have, Rekluse has proprietary designs for adjusting installed gap, which is a critical step in optimum auto clutch performance.
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Advantages of an auto clutch If you’re considering switching to an auto clutch, here’s a few of the advantages and how they’re possible: •
No Stalling - Since the auto clutch engages and disengages as a function of engine speed and at idle the clutch is set up to be disengaged, stalling is not possible.
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Tunable - Rekluse EXP disks are tunable. The EXP disk can be tuned to engage at various engine speeds, and how quickly or “hard” the clutch engages can also be manipulated.
•
Dead-on power delivery - An auto clutch simulates perfect clutch modulation which results in better traction.
•
Reduces physical and mental fatigue - Since the utilization of an auto clutch yields fewer situations where the rider needs to engage the clutch, physical fatigue is reduced. Mental fatigue is also reduced since riders no longer need to focus as much on clutch operation.
•
Clutch lever is still operational - If circumstances arise where manual clutch operation is advantageous, this can easily be accomplished.
•
Engine braking is unchanged Because an auto clutch operates just like a standard clutch above idle speed engine braking is not affected or altered.
Ricky Russell of AmPro Yamaha runs a Rekluse RadiusCX throughout the GNCC series and other offroad races the team competes in.
All Rekluse auto clutch systems are drop-in, no additional modifications are required.
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Trail • • • Who benefits from using an auto clutch? Rekluse auto clutches are designed for numerous applications and offer riders inherent advantages in each of them. There are application-specific advantages that riders can benefit from as well: Street • • • •
Covering the clutch in stop and go traffic is not necessary. Slow speed maneuvering is easier. Dead-on engagement prolongs clutch life. Able to handle high horsepower applications - tested up to 140hp, 140ft/ lbs.
Motocross • • •
Automatic modulation of the clutch allows riders to ride a taller gear through corners. The rear brake can be applied fully without fear of stalling. Ease of operation allows the rider to focus more on their line.
Woods • • •
Automatic modulation of the clutch allows for better traction in slippery conditions. Navigation of technical terrain is easier. Ease of operation allows the rider to focus on their line.
Navigation of technical terrain is easier. Automatic modulation of the clutch allows for better traction in slippery conditions. Steep and technical hills can be navigated without worrying about feathering the clutch to keep the RPMs up and the bike running.
Auto clutch durability Similar to OEM applications, auto clutch durability depends on the end user and how aggressively they operate their machine. That said, Rekluse auto clutches are designed to last at least as long as OEM clutch applications. Since the clutch is mechanically engaged at the same RPM every time, clutch wear is consistent which helps prolong clutch life. Auto clutch durability also depends on ensuring the clutch is within spec and adjusted correctly. Auto clutch riders need to perform a simple and quick check called “free play gain,” which is a comparative measurement taken at the clutch lever periodically. Why are auto clutches innovative? Rekluse auto clutches are innovative because there are no other clutch solutions on the market that offer significant rider advantages while at the same time retain conventional clutch functionality and ease of use. Innovation doesn’t stop at functionality, the number of installation options and the ease at which an auto clutch can be installed are also worthy attributes, not to mention the fact that no modifications are required to install any of Rekluse’s auto clutches. Auto clutch options Whether you’re a top-level racer, avid street rider, or dedicated trail enthusiast, there is an auto clutch option for you. You can visit the website for more information on clutch options or to use the locater to find your closest Rekluse dealer. If you have any questions at all regarding which clutch is right for you, installation, or adjustment, Rekluse experts are happy to help and can be contacted at 208-426-0659 or by email at customerservice@rekluse.com.
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EXHAUST SWAP Part 1
When it comes to customization, or increases in horsepower, swapping out an exhaust is one of the first things many motorcyclist look for. It doesn't matter if it's a V-Twin, Vintage or a Sportbike, the exhaust is rarely left stock. There is nothing functionally wrong with the stock pipe, but it is not always very interesting, and often, especially on Harley's, there is power left in the engine that can be obtained by an exhaust swap and a retune. These days modern sport bikes do not get the huge gains in hp, because the stock exhaust is generally performance tuned from the factory. However the stock pipe is often heavy due to the exhaust having to meet a required volume due to emissions requirements, so there is a notable weight reduction available in the aftermarket pipe. For this multipart article, we are going to focus on swapping a Harley exhaust, though the same mechanical principals and procedures will work for almost any engine. First we will look at the common different types of exhaust: Drag pipes, Slip ons, 2 into 1, and True Duals Drag pipes have that individual pipe sound that is very distinct. Performance wise they are good for high rpm ranges and they will show big HP numbers, but ONLY at high RPMS. They will struggle around town, at slow speeds, and low rpms. We all know the guy who has to rev his bike up or hammer on the gas to "clear it out" periodically. He has drag pipes doesn't he? 2 into 1. The basic principal of the 2:1 is you exhaust holds a steadier pressure inside the collector and muffler throughout the rpms ranges. Plus each puff of the exhaust gasses helps pull the next one out the pipe. This makes for consistent and exhaust gas scavenging. This will help give you a nice flat hp and torque curve, across the entire rpm range. It generally also means that the power will come on at a lower rpm. So this will mean more power from light to light, more power coming out of a turn, and accelerating up a hill. Also this is a great setup for heavier touring bikes because the lower rpm range is where they often operate. A 2:1 won't be as loud as drag pipes and it will give you a nice tuned sound. More of a rumble than a thump thump. Slip Ons are a great economical option for a moderate change in appearance, a little higher flow, a moderate hp gain and a better sound. True Duals are a popular exhaust on big twin bikes. The are usually a louder pipe with a deep tone. The catch is that they do not make great horsepower unless you are moving a lot of air out your exhaust. This doesn't happen until you run high compression pistons, large cams and high flow cylinder heads. Remember when you are choosing and exhaust, that despite what the kid with the obnoxious Honda Civic will tell you, noise does not equal horsepower. Because I have a racing background we will be focusing on an exhaust that makes big horsepower, the Supertrapp SuperMeg. This is a 2:1 exhaust that is tuneable to your liking. The removal and installation procedures apply the same to both big twin and sportsters. Removal: With a cool engine, spray all the fasteners down the penetrating oil, then let it soak in. If you have a fuel injected bike, unplug the O2 sensors. If possible, now is a good time to try and break the O2 sensors free, because the engine is holding the pipes in place. If you can't easily get to them with a large wrench, it's ok, because you can take them off once you get the pipes off the bike. Remember to be extra careful around the O2 sensor wires because they do not respond well to being bent around a lot, much like headphone cords. Step one is to break the exhaust flanges free first. If they haven't been off in a while, you will want to work the nut back and forth as you turn them out, to help keep from damaging the threads or breaking off the studs. I recommend this first because this is the point that is most likely to give you problems, so kill the anxiety, and get it out of the way. From there, loosen the clamps that attach the mufflers to the head pipes. Back these bolts off until the clamps move freely. Spray the joints with penetrating oil. Next remove the bolts that hold the mufflers to the bike. 30
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*On baggers you will have to remove the saddlebags to get to these points. Once the mufflers are unbolted, you will remove them from the head pipe. This is often a bit of a challenge due to corrosion, but try working the pipe side to side while twisting it. If it is rusted, there is no easy way to do this, but I promise it will come apart. Swearing at it seems to help. Once the mufflers are off, you can remove the bolts that hold the headpipe to the bike. After that, you can remove the nuts that hold the flanges to the cylinder heads. If you have a one piece head pipe it won't fall right off the bike. First you will have to slide the flanges off as far as you can down the pipe. Second, you will have to pull the bottom of the pipe toward you, then move the inlets of the pipes toward the bottom of the heads, and pull towards you. There is a small amount of clearance that will allow you to remove the head pipe from the engine. You will not have to cut or bend anything, I promise. It may seem like a ring on the horseshoe puzzle at first, but just like the puzzle, there is a solution. You'll get it, I believe in you. Once you get the pipe off, You will need to remove the snap rings from the inlets of the pipes that hold the flanges on. You can generally remove and reuse these snap rings, but they have been known to break due to age and heat. The broken pieces can be sharp, so wear eye protection and take other appropriate measures for such procedures. If you break the snap rings, they are readily available at your favorite parts supplier. Remove the old gaskets from the exhaust ports. Stock ones are a wire mesh, and the can be dug out with a small screwdriver or pick. No you cannot reuse them, even if they “look good” or you want to “save a few bucks”. Buy new ones! They are cheap! Once you get the pipes off, you can remove the sensors from the head pipes. It is good to give these a bath in penetrating oil before you try and remove them. The threads often cook themselves in these, so it may be a challenge to break them free, but they should back right out once your get them to turn. If you damage the threads, you most likely either have a 12x1.25m or 18x.5mm thread so you can run a tap or thread chaser through the threads to clean them up. Remember to be vary careful with the wires on the sensors, because they are easy to damage. Last, clean any corrosion off the mounting surfaces, that way you don't have rust or debris interfering with re-installation. Next month I will cover the details of new exhaust install as we put a 2:1 Supertrapp SuperMeg on an 05 Dyna.
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9/05/20 10:00 AM Tipp City Mum Festival Motorcycle Ride Mark your calendars for this amazing event that helps our Local Tipp City Needy Basket. Rain date September 19th. (937) 387-6774 tcmfsm@gmail.com 9/06/20 10:15:AM 19th Anniversary "Never Forget 9/11" No Cost-No RegisterationCeremony at Veterans Park-Bikes Stage at some Harley Davidson Stores-Processional Ride Veterans Park 17095 Sylvia Dr, Brook Park, OH
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9/10/20 12:00 AM Ladies Adventure Weekend 2020 This is an event that was established in 2011 as a way to unite women who love the sport of motorcycling. Adventure Harley-Davidson 1465 State Route 39 NW., Dover, Ohio 44622 paige.boos@madriverhd.com 9/12/20 3:00:PM Geauga Veterans Sport Fest 50 Item Raffle featuring Guns, Kayaks, Fishing Equipment and Cash Prizes Great Lakes Outdoor Parking Lot 14855 North State Avenue Middlefield, OH 44062 216-401-6509, 440-673-5862
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9/12/20 9:00 AM Dayton 9/11 Memorial Ride & Drive The year our Ride will start at the 9/12/20 12:00 PM 10th Annual TRO Geneva-on-the- church (usually our halfway point), Lake THUNDER ZONE Bike Show we will have our halfway point at It's our 10th Bike Show at Geneva- Madison Lake in Trotwood and we will end at Member 's Only 937 in on-the-Lake this just might be our Dayton. biggest and best thus far!! Meet & Greet will be from 9am Sunset Bar, 5475 Lake Road, to11am Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio 44041 Kick Stands up at 11:30am. 440-678-8608 Ginghamsburg Church Smith.Ironcowboy@gmail.com 6759 S Co Rd 25A, Tipp City, Ohio info@ginghamsburg.org bluelineunlimited@gmail.com, nicolespid@gmail.com
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FUNNY STUFF BECAUSE EVERYONE NEEDS A GOOD LAUGH NOW AND THEN... 14. I ran out of toilet paper and had to start using old newspapers. Times are rough. 15. What types of jokes are allowed during quarantine? Inside jokes! 1. Why do they call it the novel coronavirus? It’s a long story…. 2. You know what they’re saying about 2020. It went viral faster than anyone thought it would. 3. If coronavirus isn’t about beer, why do I keep seeing cases of it?
16. You know what they say: feed a cold, starve a fever, drink a corona. 17. What did the sick parent make their kids for lunch? Mac and sneeze. 18. Where do sick boats go to get healthy? The dock!
4. Back in my day you would cough to cover up a fart. Now, with COVID-19, you fart to cover up a cough. 5. You know who buys up all the toilet paper? A$%holes. 6. Nail salons, hair salons, waxing center and tanning places are closed. It’s about to get ugly out there. 7. Why don’t chefs find coronavirus jokes funny? They’re in bad taste. 8. I’ll tell you a coronavirus joke now, but you’ll have to wait two weeks to see if you got it. 9. Still no toilet paper in the stores. They’re wiped out and you’re shit out of luck. 10. So many coronavirus jokes out there, it’s a pundemic. 11. What did the man say to the bartender? I’ll have a corona, hold the virus. 12. If there’s a baby boom nine months from now, what will happen in 2033? There will be a whole bunch of quaranteens. 13. Did you hear the joke about the germ? Never mind, I don’t want to spread it around.
IF YOU GO DOWN, CALL RUSS BROWN
THE ORIGINAL MOTORCYCLE ATTORNEYS
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RECIPES RIKKI ROCKETT POISON BLACK BEAN BURGER SLIDERS WITH SRIRACHA AIOLI (SERVES 4) As co-founder and drummer for Poison, Rikki Rockett has sold more than 45 million records worldwide and toured the globe performing live. As a strict vegetarian, he has perfected a couple of healthy meals during his travels. His go-to recipe for black bean burgers calls for a dab of sriracha aioli to crank the heat up just enough without paralyzing your taste buds. Cooking oil spray ¼ cup chopped yellow onion (about 1/2 one small onion) 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 (15-ounce) can unsalted black beans ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro 2 teaspoons soy sauce 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs 1 large egg, beaten (or 1 tablespoon egg replacer and ½ cup of water, premixed) ¼ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt 1 teaspoon sriracha 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar 12 slider-sized Hawaiian buns 2 cups baby arugula 1 avocado, sliced
1 Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Heat skillet over medium heat and spray lightly with cooking oil. Add onion and cook until soft about 3-4 minutes), then add garlic and salt and cook another 2 minutes. Set aside. 2 Place rinsed and drained beans into a large bowl and lightly mash. Stir in onion mixture, cilantro, soy sauce, cayenne pepper, panko, and egg (or egg replacer) until texture and consistency are uniform. (If the mixture is a too damp, add more panko. If it is too dry, add 1 teaspoon water). 3 Divide mixture into 12 golf-ball-sized patties. Arrange patties onto lightly oiled baking sheet, then press flat and bake for 8 minutes. 4 While the patties are in the oven, in a separate bowl combine Greek yogurt, Sriracha, and white wine vinegar. Set aside. Turn over the black bean burger patties and bake an additional 6 minutes. Then place buns in oven and toast for 3 minutes. 5 Spread yogurt mixture on buns, add patties and garnish with avocado and arugula.
Spoecial Feature provided by: HAVE YOU EVER WANTED TO HAVE DINNER WITH A ROCK STAR?
ORDER YOUR COPY: www.rockinrecipesforautism.com/ Have a recipe that you’d like to share? Write it all down and send with a picture – to ThunderRoadsOhio@gmail.com Put RECIPE in the subject line. If we use it, we’ll send you copies of the magazines and a TRO T-Shirt – so include your address and t-shirt size as well! Thanks! - The Iron Cowboy 42
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SPONSOR INDEX WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL OF OUR SPONSORS THAT HELP MAKE THIS MAGAZINE POSSIBLE. IT IS ONLY WITH THEIR SUPPORT AND COMMITMENT THAT WE CAN PRODUCE WHAT WE BELIEVE TO BE THE FINEST REGIONAL MOTORCYCLE PUBLICATION IN THE NATION. AC Leather.................................................................35 Akron Swap Meet.....................................................41 B2B Burgers to Beers................................................18 Bair's Powersports......................................................35 Bears - Seat King.......................................................33 Bears Vintage Metals.................................................. 3 Big M Pizza................................................................35 BlueLineUnlimited.com Gun Raffle...........................36 Buffalo Wild Wings...................................................33 Burgers 2 Beer...........................................................18 Cash 4 Motorcycles..................................................34 Christian Motorcycles Association...........................10 City Mission................................................................ 11 GearHeadz................................................................35 Geauga Veterans Sport Fest...................................... 9
Geauga Veterans Sport Fest...................................... 9 Geico Local.................................................................. 1 Great Lakes Outdoor Supply...................................13 Greater Good Tattoo Company..............................34 Hi-Point Firearms........................................................13 Indian of Columbus..................................................... 5 Iron Horse Campgrounds.........................................34 Iron Pony Motorsports/Pony Powersports Group.... 4 Johnny's .....................................................................43 Luxury Coach RV Sales & Service...........................35 Mathias BMW...........................................................21 Michigan Thunder Fest..............................................38 Mr. Lee's.....................................................................19 NEO Pro Imaging...................................................... 31 Ohio Dept. of Public Safety (Motorcycle Ohio).....14
Parma Pit Stop............................................................19 Portage Industrial Floors...........................................34 ReasonsToRide.com.........................Inside Back Cover Rekluse....................................................... Inside Cover Ride with a Mission...................................................39 RUSS BROWN.............................. Back Cover, pg 40 Sassy's........................................................................15 Southeast Harley-Davidson........................................ 8 The Barn-Zanesville...................................................35 The Bike Shop............................................................ 31 The Hydrant................................................................19 Wheeling Island - Casino - Hotel - Racetrack.......... 21 Whitehorse Biker Church.......................................... 11 Zeppe's.......................................................................18
OHIO’S MOTORCYCLE MAG! TRO SCAVENGER HUNT
The TRO SCAVENGER HUNT is a special, indoor THUNDER RUN through the pages of our very own magazine. Hidden someplace within the depth of these pages is a special TRO PRIZE LOGO – see the sample here. It’s a version of our “wheel logo” with a treasure chest on it. It was inspired by Cole’s favorite TV show – Jake and the Neverland Pirates! When you find it, shoot us an email at BuckeyeThunderRun@ gmail.com with SCAVENGER HUNT in the subject line. Let us know what page and exactly where the logo is in this month’s magazine and we will put you in the drawing for some great TRO prizes – including some great gear and subscriptions to the magazine! How cool is that?!
Scavenger Hunt Winner:
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We’d also like to thank all of our subscribers... and of course the avid readers that bring it all together.Thank you for making all of this possible, for supporting this organization, and our families. Sincerely, The Thunder Roads Ohio Team.
Geneva Jones
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