Midwest Motorcyclist, Aug 2015 issue

2015 Model Year Clearance!

The 2016 models will be arriving soon and we need to make room. Come to our dealership today to get the best prices on the 2015s.

2016 BMW F 700 GS Base MSRP: $9,990 Including ABS

The F 700 GS. An ideal all-round machine within the GS family, suitable for every kind of rider – no matter how experienced.

2016 BMW F 800 GS Base MSRP: $12,190 Including ABS

The F 800 GS. The ultimate versatile adventure machine with sporty genes.

Special year end incentives direct from BMW apply.

Stop by or call our dealership today to find out how much you can save!

5 Mile Rd

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BMW Motorrad Dealer of Excellence

Selective D r

BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan 14855 N. Sheldon Rd., Plymouth, MI 734.453.0500 www.bmwmcsem.com

“Redefining your motorcycling lifestyle” SM * For qualified buyers. Visit BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan for details. Always ride safely and wear proper protective gear.

2015 Indian Roadmaster™ Trike Style, Stability & Performance in One Package Options include electric reverse, Independent Rear Suspension (IRS), large trunk, and upgraded wheels.

Only $43,149.00 plus title, tax, etc.

Stop by our dealership today to see and test ride these and every other 2015 Indian or Victory motorcycles!

2 Black Smoke models currently in stock!

The Legend is Back.

Like its iconic forerunner, the all-new Indian® Scout ™ is an innovative and aesthetically stunning American cruiser. It introduces the first-ever liquidcooled Indian Motorcycle engine - an efficient and reliable 69 cubic inch V-twin - for impressive power on demand. This new model carries the legendary Indian® Scout™ name into the future in authentic Indian® Motorcycle® style. MSRP: $11,299

WIN A 2015 INDIAN SCOUT!

Join us at Scooter’s Bar & Grill at 6004 Torrey Road in Flint, Michigan for our Wednesday Bike Nights and get your ticket to win a 2015 Indian Scout. Call our dealership or visit Scooter’s for details!

1765 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI One mile north of Square Lake Rd. on the east side of Telegraph Rd.

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Midwest Motorcyclist

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Columns 5 16 18 20 21

cc media publications

This Month’s Contributors: Contributing Editors Franz Hoffer, Mike Mekinda

IN THIS ISSUE…..

To Our Readers Motorcycling and Law: MCCA by Dondi Vesprini Random Ramblings of a Rare Bird: The Fun & Folly of Riding Old Bikes

by Mike Mekinda Summer News Roundup by Jason Waechter The Preacher Speaks About... RLAP by Franz Hoffer

Features, News & Reviews 6 7 12 15 15

Ladies Shine at Track Day by Blane Kamp Profile: Scott Parker, 9x Grand National Flat Track Champion by Ray Peabody Test Ride: 2015 Indian Scout by Ray Peabody Triumph Detorit Closes Plymouth Location ADV Monster H11 LED Headlight Bulb Upgrade by Gene Southard

5 17 21

Advertiser Index Event Schedule Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Event Schedule

Resources

plus

Blasne Kamp, Gene Southard, Dondi Vesprini, Jason Waechter

Large cover photo: 2016 Indian Scout parked in downtown Milford. Photo by Ray Peabody.

Small cover photo (upper): Ladies take the track at Grattan Raceway. Photo by Andrea Kamp.

Small cover photo (lower): Scott Parker next to championship winning XR750 on display inside his pub. Photo by Ray Peabody.

Publisher/Managing Editor

Ray Peabody publisher@midwestmotorcyclist.com rpeabody@sbcglobal.net

Advertising Sales/ Web Master / Distribution Ray Peabody publisher@midwestmotorcyclist.com rpeabody@sbcglobal.net

Cover Design Julie Kirkendoll

How to contact us: 709 Fall Street Spring Lake, Michigan 49456 (810) 923-8738 www.midwestmotorcyclist.com Copyright 1998-2015 cc media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, photocopied, or electronically transmitted without the expressed written permission of the publisher.

Advertisers, their agents, contributors of event information, freelance contributors and/or editorial contributors will defend, indemnify and hold cc media and RTP Enterprises, Inc. harmless in any claims of libel, copyright or trademark infringement, plagiarism, violation of local, national, or international privacy laws and any other claim or suit that may arise subsequent to publication of said advertisement, stories, event information, and/or editorial. Submission of material for consideration for publication in Michigan Motorcyclist/Midwest Motorcyclist, American CycleRider either solicited or unsolicited, constitutes agreement to these terms. Except for the Publisher and Managing Editor, all writers are free-lance contributors.

Any and all opinions expressed are those of the authors, and don’t necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

4

OPEN HOUSE Saturday, September 26, 2015 • Demo rides • Door prizes • Food & refreshments • Savings on all in-stock apparel & accessories • Special pricing on new and used motorcycles BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan 14855 N. Sheldon Rd., Plymouth, MI 734.453.0500 www.bmwmcsem.com www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

August 2015

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Harley-Davidson ...............21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Battle Creek Harley-Davidson ......21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 BMW Motorcycles of Detroit................13, 20 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 BMW of Grand Rapids..........5, 9, 10, 11 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 BMW, SE Michigan..... .........2, 4, 8, 15 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 C & S Harley-Davidson ...........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Capitol Harley-Davidson ..........21, 22, 23 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12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Great Lakes Dual Sporters ...................17 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Great Lakes Harley-Davidson........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Hamilton’s Harley-Davidson ....14, 21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Harley-Davidson dealers ..............21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Hot Rod Harley-Davidson .............21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Jason Waechter, The Motorcycle Lawyer..24 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Jerry B’s Cycle Works .......................12 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Kelley & Sons Trailers ...........................14 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Metro Triumph Riders............................9, 24 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Motor City Underwriters ......................12 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Motorcity Motorcycles.................3,5 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Motorcycle Solutions, LLC......................12 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 MC Sport Touring Association..........13, 16 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Perry’s Harley-Davidson ..........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Ray C’s Harley-Davidson..........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Retail Warehouse .........................14, 20 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Richmond Cycle...................................18 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Ride for Kids...........................................7 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Rocky’s Outdoors.................................6, 9 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Sandy’s Harley-Davidson ...........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Shiawassee Harley-Davidson ....21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Sport Bike Track Gear ............................ 13 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Sweet Trikes ...........................................12 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Tecumseh Harley-Davidson .....21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Town & Country H-D................21, 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BE SEEN

Advertiser Index

Wear Hi Viz Riding Gear

TRACK DAY @ Grattan Monday, August 31, 2015 The day costs $165, which includes track time, class room instruction and lunch. All makes and models of bikes are welcome to attend our track events! Call our store to reserve your space today.

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PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

Hope you’re having a great summer. Thanks for reading.

Have fun. Ride safe.

See you on the road, at an event or a campground.

Ray

The advertisers in this magazine help us bring a quality publication to you. Please remember to buy their products and use their services.

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Midwest Motorcyclist

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Ladies First

By Blane Kamp

When the Ladies First Track Day comes along once a year at Grattan Raceway, it’s the ladies time to shine. I’ve never seen so many women in race leathers having such a great time. The ladies were helping each other, smiling, telling stories and talking about their sessions on the track. The weather was great, getting into the 70s by mid Photo by Xtreme Sports Photography, 129photos.com afternoon. Perfect conditions for the track day. instruction could save the rider’s hide down the ladies. Mike and Sally have worked with STT for a Samantha Chambon, Director of Sportbike Track road. Just knowing your bike will lean that much long time and brought up some interesting Girl, organized the event and it was a complete further or stop that much quicker can be invaluable connections to Femmoto, a womens-only success. There were a few crashes, but no one came on the street. MSF courses are great, but there’s motorcycle event that started in 2002 in Las Vegas. away with more than bumps and bruises. nothing quite like being on a race track.

Richard Harris started LFTD after he I’ve been to a number of track days and it I was talking to a couple of the coaches, bought the company, Sportbike Track Time, from always seems that someone cuts another rider off or Mike Massara and Sally Inch, Monte Lutz in 2008. Monte’s wife, Bonnie Strawser, makes a mistake causing tension among in the pits about the ladiesoriginally started Femmoto in 2002 as a two-day the riders. Then you have problems. I only track day. Sally was event in Las Vegas. That event ran for seven years think it has something to do with men commenting on how it gets the with it’s peak coming in 2007 when they had 550 and testosterone. That tension was absent girlfriends and wives into the female riders. Bonnie successfully encouraged many at Ladies Track Day. Samantha said she sport. Instead of just watching, of the manufacturers to bring their demo trucks to didn’t receive one complaint. These they’re participating.

Many of the event. Women could pay for a track day and test ladies were going fast, too. I timed a few the women are riding their ride a variety of motorcycles. The cost to the unofficially in the low to mid 130s for lap significant other’s motorcycle manufacturers was too much to keep it going and times. Roughly 20 seconds off the track in the event.

Two novice Femmoto went away. The main problem was lack record and not even racing. These ladies classes were reserved for of promotion, according to my sources. Even with were smooth with great technique.

Photo by Lynn Kamp women who were new to the 550 riders, it’s hard for the manufacturers to justify Grattan is a great place to learn how to track and needed extra instruction.

This allowed a participating. According to Women Riders Now, ride your bike. There are no cars, oil or anti-freeze lot more one-on-one time with the coaches. 56 women make up 25% of all current riders. With any spills to worry about. The coaches work with the entrants and eight female staff riders participated in luck, Samantha can get Ladies Track Day attendance riders to improve their lines, braking technique and this year’s track day. There were also a good overall riding skills. I saw a lot of one-on-one Continued on page 8 number of male coaches pitching in to help the instruction between the coaches and the riders. This

6

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August 2015

Profile

Scott Parker, 9-Time AMA Grand National Flat Track Racing Champion

by Ray Peabody When Scott Parker retired from professional flat track racing at the end of the 1998 season, he was at the pinnacle of his career. He had just wrapped up his ninth AMA Grand National Championship in eleven years and was still winning races. The second best racer in history (at that time), Carroll Wesreber, had only won four Championships. Parker could have continued racing, and likely winning, but he was done. He didn’t want to stay in the racing game past his prime and had grown tired of the travel, having been on the road since his teens. His enthusiasm was gone. It was time to stop.

Before meeting Mr. Parker for this interview, I wondered what someone with so much racing success would be doing after retiring from the track. I expected that he would still be involved with racing in some capacity. Perhaps, a race team owner. Or maybe providing training to racers who want to go faster. He is still under contract with Harley-Davidson and was intimately involved in the development of the XR1200X several years. He also worked on the marketing for the Street 750 launch as well as an expert consultant on the development of that motorcycle for the X-Games flat track race. Otherwise, he’s not professionally

involved with racing or the motorcycle industry.

Instead, he owns and has operated Parker’s PD’s Pub at G-5153 Fenton Road in Grand Blanc for the last seven years.

The first thing you see upon entering PD’s is the Harley-Davidson XR750 – on display in a glass case - on which Parker won the last of his championships in 1998. Harley-Davidson gave him the bike at a presentation ceremony in appreciation for winning so many championships on the company’s behalf. Elsewhere in the Pub, pictures of Parker in full race mode are posted on the walls.

While the mementos are there, visitors won’t feel as

if the bar is some kind of shrine to past racing glory.

Mr. Parker is friendly and approachable as evidenced by the number of people who greeted him as we talked.

Parker inherited the racing gene from his father who competed in enduros and ice races before eventually getting in to flat track. Young Scott started with a Rupp mini bike racing around a tree in his family’s yard. Having dug a dirt path around the tree, he eventually moved to a local parking lot.

After the Rupp, he got the 65cc Yamaha that launched his racing career. In 1974, Scott entered some AMA District 14 races running his 65cc against bigger, more powerful 80cc bikes. Since his bike was underpowered, he had to develop racing techniques and identify lines that would enable him to beat the bigger bikes. Those lessons carried over into his professional career. Once he began winning, he moved to Tennessee for a couple years to race, primarily because the payouts were better.

Parker moved up quickly through the ranks and, after having big success as a junior, he entered the professional race at the Houston Astrodome in 1979. He was overly confident, expecting to win at the top level of racing right out of the box. He got spanked. It was a different level of racing than what he had experienced as a junior; the competition was faster and more aggressive. Ultimately, he didn’t even qualify. Parker confesses that he was shocked to go from winning everything to not even making it into the heat races. He knew he had to step up his game and get his head straight if he was going to win against the best of the best. He did, winning

Continued on next page

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7

Continued from previous page - S. Parker Profile races at Indianapolis and Duquoin in that first year.

He struggled through the 1980 season but his prospects looked up in 1981. Harley-Davidson had hired Clyde Fessler, a marketing and press relations guy, to grenerate publicity for HarleyDavidson and their flat track racers. At the first west coast race of the year, factory Harley racer, Jay Springsteen, wasn’t able to compete due to an ongoing stomach ailment. Fessler tried to promote the team with only one racer but knew he needed at least one more racer. Parker was hired to fill in for Springer while he recovered.

Once onboard with Harley-Davidson, Parker improved his standing every year, moving up from 9th to 7th to 6th before winning his first Grand National Championship (GNC) in 1988. That 1988 GNC propelled H-D back to the top of flat track racing after several years of Honda domination. He went on to win the GNC in 1989, 1990, and 1991 before experiencing a stumble in 1992. In that year, he finished only two points behind Chris Carr despite having DNF’d in a race and being out of three races due to injury. Parker actually won more races than Carr that year which

decided to retire. He was getting older. The training and travel had become a pain. He asked himself what really mattered. He had been racing for more than 20 years and decided he wanted to do something else.

Maybe build some houses. He had been involved in the construction industry as a sideline for most of his career. Still, he was a little unsure. He decided it might be better to ease out of racing rather stop cold turkey. He elected to race at five of the biggest races in 1999 to smooth the transition out of racing.

Unfortunately, the 1999 season was a reflection of the less successful parts of his career; he won one of the five races and finished third and fourth in a couple others.

His bike broke in one and he fell off in another. His decision to retire seemed to be a good one.

These days, Scott Parker is still riding but he rides at a more leisurely pace. Rather than an XR750, his main ride is a Harley-Davidson Street Glide. He especially likes those 150 miles days in the saddle exploring south central Michigan. The rest of his time is spent with family and managing PD’s.

Although Parker is rightfully proud of his career, he doesn’t miss racing. He’s moved on to more important things in life.

For more information about Scott Parker and his racing career, there’s lots of information online. Or you can stop by Parker’s PD’s Pub in Grand Blanc, Michigan for a meal and a beer and say hello. Scott will likely be there as he is most every day.

Continued from page 6 - Ladies First to be a part of a group of such strong, kind and encouraging women! There is nothing more up and the manufacturers on board.

S a m a n t h a organized the rewarding than a female rider coming up to me at the end of the day and saying ‘this event and ran all of it was my first track day and I through Sport Bike absolutely loved it. I will be back Track Girl. I soon.’” Samantha did a great job interviewed Samantha with the event. At the end of the to get her thoughts on day, the ladies walked away with this year’s event . a number of raffle prizes and a Samantha has been goody bag. riding on the track since Sportbike Track Girl has another July of 2012. “It was an Photo by Andrea Kamp Ladies First Track Day event instant addiction,” she scheduled for September 7, 2015 at said. “In May 2014, I Talladega GP in Cullman, Alabama. Going forward, joined the STG staff and started planning STG plans on having two outings a year for women for Ladies First at Grattan on July 4th, only and grow the program in the next few years.

2014. I absolutely love being a part of the They hope to get manufacturers on board in the organization and encouraging women to future. STG’s goal is “No matter your skill level, come out and try track days. It’s an honor from the newest beginner to the expert racer, we are here to provide a relaxed setting designed to eliminate the intimidation and remove the obstacles we face as women riders”.

Ladies First The day costs $165, which includes Track Day just celebrated track time, class room instruction and its 6th year. There are lunch. All makes and models of bikes currently a total of 9 are welcome to attend our track sponsors and Samantha events! To register, please call is working on increasing Audrey at (734) 453-0500 that number. For more information, visit the Sportbike Track Girl web BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan site at 14855 N. Sheldon Rd., Plymouth, MI www.sportbiketrackgirl.com.

kept him in contention for the GNC. Parker was energized going into the 1993 season.

Unfortunately for him, his bike broke down in the first race of the season and Carr went on to win.

At Hagerstown, Parker fell off his bike and Ricky Graham went on to take the checkers. At that point in the season, Parker was already 40 points down on the leaders; a gap that seemed insurmountable.

He says that his motivation waived and he was just going through the motions. The media began questioning whether he could win again or if his career was over. Scott only won one race and Graham ended up winning the GNC in 1993. Interestingly enough, Parker’s lack of success in 1993 inspired him. He knew he still had the skills and drive to win. He also wanted to prove the naysayers wrong.

He did. He not only won the GNC in 1994, he also won in 1995, 1996, 1997, and 1998 for a total of nine Grand National Championships. Only Chris Carr has come close to matching Parker’s record with his seven GNCs early in this century.

Despite the success of some younger racers like Jared Mees and Bryan Smith, no one currently racing is even close to matching Parker’s GNC record.

At the end of the 1999 season, Parker

Autumn Track Day • Monday, August 31, 2015 •

734.453.0500

8

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August 2015

Stay Dry When You Ride with

WIN A 2015 BMW R nine T!

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Proceeds to the Children With Hair Loss Charity

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Rocky’s Great Outdoors G4014 South Saginaw Street, Burton, MI (810) 742-5420 www.motorcycleandoutdoors.com/

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Midwest Motorcyclist

9

Test Ride

2015 Indian Scout, Modern Classic

by Ray Peabody Finally, a company seems to be getting the remake of the Indian Motorcycle Company right. When Polaris acquired the rights to the Indian brand in 2011, success in rebuilding the brand seemed a long shot to many.

The original Indian Motorcycle Company halted motorcycle production in 1953. After being the dominant motorcycle company during the first four decades of the 20th century, Harley-Davidson took the lead by supplying thousands of motorcycles to the U.S. military during World War II. Indian was never able to recover lost market share. Since then, multiple companies have tried to resurrect the company but all failed. Most were tying the once prestigious brand to lowquality motorcycles. In the 1990s, one such enterprise seemed to consider the actual building of motorcycles secondary to selling products with early Indian logos. All of those companies failed to regain the early prominence. Polaris seemed to be a company with resources sufficient enough to restore the company to its former glory. The first indication that Polaris might succeed where others have failed was the introduction of their Thunder Stroke V-twin engine.

Once Indian established a dealer network, we decided it was time to test these entirely new, American-made motorcycles. Last year, Contributing Editor and The Skinny On… columnist, Pedro Gregorio, tested the Chieftain and came away impressed by its engine and comfortable ride. One month later, we published a review of the Roadmaster by regular contributor, Patrick Francis. He was equally enthusiastic about the performance of the big tourer; the price tag, not so much. Once the Scout was released, we knew we had to see whether this streak of positive reviews would continue.

The Scout name goes back to the original Indian Motorcycle Company. Various versions of the Scout were built between 1920 and 1949. Some versions were more successful than others. “Iron Man” Ed Kretz rode a Sport Scout to a win the inaugural Daytona 200 in 1937. The Scout also found its way to the Daytona 200 winner’s circle in both 1947 and 1948. Those who have seen the movie about Burt Monroe might remember that he rode a modified 1000cc Scout to a land speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats in 1967. While the new Scout might never make it to the race track, performance

provides deep roots in its genetic tree.

John Erickson, the General Manager at MotorCity Indian Motorcycles in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan offered up his Scout for our test. The test bike was stock except for an add-on windscreen. The plan was to take Orchard Lake Road west of the dealership in the hunt for less traffic and open roads.

First impressions were positive. After riding several technologically sophisticated motorcycles in the recent months, the simplicity of the Scout was a welcome change.

The simple but elegant speedometer is located in front of the fuel tank just under the pullback handlebars. There is no tachometer.

The controls are simple and standard; a single button to actuate and discontinue the directional signals, a horn, dim / bright headlight switch, starter button and on-off button. That’s it. The key is located on the left side, just beneath the saddle between the cylinders.

The seating position is quite comfortable.

The firm solo leather saddle is raised at the rear which helps the rider maintain an upright posture without slouching. I felt like I was sitting on top of the motorcycle rather than down in it despite the low 25.3 inch saddle height. The footpegs are positioned at the lower front of the frame. They’re far enough forward to keep the rider from feeling cramped but close enough to keep a slight bend at the knee. The pull-back handle bars are a comfortable reach; the rider leans forward slightly but not so much as to put weight on the wrists and elbows.

Continued on page 14

Pre-Owned Motorcycles

2002 BMW F 650 GS, 28,000 miles, Low suspension, Tall windshield, Touratech tail rack, BMW Tank bag $3,950

2012 MV Agusta Brutale 1090 R, Red, 820 miles, $9,950

2012 Suzuki GSX™ R750 , 2012 Triumph Tiger 800, 2009 BMW K 1200 LT, 2009 BMW R 1200 GS, 2009 BMW R 1200 RT , 2008 BMW K 1200 GT, 2008 BMW R 1200 GS , 2007 BMW K 1200 R Sport, 2006 BMW R 1200 GS , 2005 BMW K 1200 LT, 2005 BMW K 1200 LT, 2005 BMW R 1200 RT, 2005 BMW R 1200 RT, 2002 BMW K1200LT, 2001 BMW R1100RT, 1992 BMW R100RT,

Yellow, 13,656 miles, Black, 18,896 miles, Black, 72,000 miles, Silver, 62,000 miles, Silver, 38,487 miles, Silver, 27,000 miles, Silver, 51,734 miles, Silver, 26,141 miles, Graphite, 62,682 miles, Graphite, 45,425 miles, Ocean Blue, 24,337 miles, Red, 71,444 miles, Red, 71,000 miles, Silver, 70,002 miles, Black/White, 116,805 miles, Green, 50, 029 miles,

$8,250 $7,950 $9,750 $9,750 $9,950 $10,250 $9,250 $6,950 $9,450 $9,250 $9,250 $7,750 $7,750 $6,250 $3,950 $4,750

BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids, 5995 South Division, Grand Rapids, MI (616) 530-6900 www.bmwmcgr.com 10

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

August 2015

BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids 5995 S Division Grand Rapids, MI 49548-5730 616-530-6900 www.bmwmcgr.com

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Midwest Motorcyclist

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JOIN US Disclaimer: This ain’t your mamma’s pokey bar hoppin’ motorcycle club. It also isn’t a squidly club. We ride and we ride well. You are expected to ride within your limits.

You are expected to wear appropriate safety gear, ride a safely maintained machine, and follow reasonable group riding etiquette. We welcome riders of all skill levels, ages, genders, and marques. You will likely find like-minded members who ride at your level of skill. The MSTA and Michigan MSTA assume no responsibility for your safety, state of mind, average lean angle, or degree of rockin’ fun that you’ll experience with us. Just motorcycle enthusiasts getting together to ride.

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TRAILER SALES, RENTALS,

Continued from page 10 - Indian Scout Test

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Out on the road, the water-cooled, fuelinjected, 69 cubic inch, 100 horsepower v-twin takes center stage. Vibration at idle or at speed is negligible because of the engine counter balancer.

While parked at idle, the exhaust note is barely audible.

Accelerate hard through the six gears and it sounds like a muffled hot rod. I don’t especially favor loud pipes but the exhaust note is so sweet, I’d like to hear a little more of it.

The front telescoping forks are firm but forgiving enough so the rider doesn’t lose control on the bumpy sections of road. (Read “on Michigan roads.”) The twin rear shocks are stiff; they don’t cushion the bumps – especially the frost heaves - nearly as well. That written, the Scout provides solid, track-like handling on smooth sweepers and tighter curves.

Contributing to that precise handling is the observation that the Scout feels lighter than its 558 pounds (wet) might suggest. Good riders might not need to put their feet down at stops.

(Not recommending this strategy just highlighting

all tires installed by us.

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the balance.)

The single disk brakes, both front and rear, bring the Scout to smooth, stable stops; as expected. Motorcycles with poor brakes won’t be on the market long.

Overall, the Scout is a fun, fast motorcycle, comfortable enough for the short cruise to bike night or an all-day tour of the State. The fact that the Scout seems to be enjoying strong sales is no surprise. I doubt we’ll be seeing this motorcycle in the Daytona 200 anytime soon.

However, it wouldn’t surprise me at all to see the Scout successfully campaigned on the dirt track or maybe even modified enough to go after some speed records at the Flats. Its genes would indicate that it could do quite well.

Thanks to John Erickson of MotorCity Indian Motorcycles, located at 1765 S. Telegraph Road in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. For more information about the Scout or other models in the Indian line-up, visit their store, give them a call at 248.920.2000, visit their website at www.RideMotorCity.com, or check them out on Facebook.

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www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

August 2015

Triumph Detroit Closes Plymouth Location Shelby Township, Michigan – Triumph Detroit has announced that their Plymouth, Michigan, location will close effective July 31, 2015. The company will continue to operate their Triumph dealership located at 50662 Van Dyke in Shelby Township, 1/4 mile south of 23 Mile Road.

“We appreciate our west side customers and would very much like to continue operating our Plymouth store,” said Suzanne Canu, who with her husband, Dave, owns Triumph Detroit. “Unfortunately, issues arose with our building and were unable to get them resolved

Two Adventure Jackets from Klim

with our landlord. As a result, we elected not to renew our lease. We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause our customers.”

Triumph Detroit is committed to serving all of their customers including those who made purchases through the Plymouth store.

For more information, vist Triumph Detroit’s Shelby Township location, call them by phone at (586) 726-7400 or visit their website at www.triumphdetroit.com.

KLIM has rapidly become one of the top names in adventure riding gear. Two of their newest models are now in stock. Stop by our dealership today to check out the latest in technical riding gear.

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BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan 14855 N. Sheldon Rd., Plymouth, MI 734.453.0500 www.bmwmcsem.com

ADV Monster H11 LED Headlight Bulb Upgrade

by Gene Southard On my last trip to Florida I had the opportunity to visit ADV monster and get one of there new LED headlight bulbs installed in my BMW. The output of the new bulb was amazing. The upgraded bulb is rated at 2500 lumens, much greater output than the standard H11 halogen bulb. But the real improvement can only be seen when riding on a very dark night. I have to say that these old 60 year old eyes do not see as well at night, so any improvement in night time vision is very much appreciated. The beam reaches further down the road and gives improved lighting within the entire beam. An added benefit of the LED is the decrease in amp draw.

As you can see from the picture there is more to fit inside the headlight shell so if room is a problem you may have trouble fitting it all in. But on that dark night riding home and that wayward raccoon decides to cross the road in front of you. You will be glad for the LED upgrade.

Pre-Owned Motorcycles 2011 BMW R1200R, Black, 65,926 miles, Excellent condition, $7,990 2005 Honda CBR600RR, Black / Red, Excellent condition, $4,200

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We take motorcycles of all brands and models as trade-ins. Bring us your bike when you’re ready to buy!

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Midwest Motorcyclist

15

Motorcycling & Law

MCCA Sport Touring is Our Middle Name!

We Ride! ...All Makes of Bikes ...All Over the Country ...On Back Roads ...On Racetracks ...At Novice-Advanced Levels ...In Our Sleep!

Our members come from all across the Midwest (and beyond) and we ride many makes of street bikes - including: â&#x20AC;˘ Aprilia â&#x20AC;˘ BMW â&#x20AC;˘ Buell â&#x20AC;˘ Ducati

â&#x20AC;˘ Harley-Davidson â&#x20AC;˘ Honda â&#x20AC;˘ Kawasaki

â&#x20AC;˘ Suzuki â&#x20AC;˘ Triumph â&#x20AC;˘ Yamaha ....and brands in between

We travel to great riding destinations close by and far away. We learn to be better riders. We share camaraderie and a common passion: The Passion To Ride!

For information about membership, meetings, events or rides, contact the MSTA group in your state: In Indiana, contact: Donald â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mooseâ&#x20AC;? Parish mooseparish@sbcglobal.net

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by Dondi Vesprini I hope that, as we enter into the dog days of summer, you have been logging quality miles on your bike and taking in all that a Michigan Summer has to offer. I have had the opportunity to attend various motorcycle events across our State and talk to many bikers about a variety of topics. While motorcyclists from varying locations across the State each have regional issues they are interested in, perhaps the one topic that gets more universal discussion than any other as it relates to motorcycle insurance is the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association (MCCA). I was asked by some attendees at the Freedom Rally in Lansing this past June to devote this article to explaining what the MCCA is and why a fee shows up for same on motorcycle insurance policies.

As many motorcyclists know, Michigan is a no fault insurance state. While motorcyclists are not required to purchase no fault coverage on their motorcycle insurance policies, Michigan law nonetheless allows a motorcyclist to receive no fault benefits if they are involved in an accident with a motor vehicle. Those no fault benefits include items such as medical expenses, attendant care, household services, wage loss and medical mileage. The medical expense benefits it a lifetime benefit which has no cap on costs.

One can imagine that in the case of a catastrophically injured person, the amount paid in no fault benefits can be incredibly high, especially in case where extensive medical treatment is required and intensive attendant care and items such as home modifications are necessary.

In an effort to ease the financial burden on any one insurance company paying a large amount of money on a no fault claim where one has been catastrophically injured, the MCCA was created by Michigan statute in 1978. While the no fault insurer remains liable to the catastrophically injured person for lifetime medical expenses, the MCCA reimburses the no fault insurer for amounts the insurer pays on the claim in excess of a certain amount. Currently, that amount is $545,000.00. This means that once the no fault insurer has paid over $545,000.00 on a no fault claim, it may be reimbursed by the MCCA for any additional payments it makes over that amount.

In order to provide reimbursement to no fault insurers for these catastrophic type

no claims, all insurance companies doing business in Michigan are assessed a fee to help fund the MCCA. The assessment is subject to change every year. The assessment for July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016 is $150.00 per insured vehicle. The no fault insurers generally pass the costs of this assessment on down to their insureds as part of the premium that are paid on auto and motorcycle insurance policies alike.

The MCCA is a source of controversy, especially when it comes to the topic of No Fault reform. Insurance companies have been relentless in pushing to reform no fault law to decrease or cap itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s liability to pay no fault benefits, arguing that insurance companies are going broke due to the amount of money they pay out yearly on no fault claims. However, when the insurance industry is asked how much money is in the MCCA, they are not forthcoming with the answer and all are left in large part to speculate how much money is in the MCCA. As always, if anyone has any questions or if I can be of legal assistance to you or anyone you know who has been injured in a motorcycle accident, please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hesitate to contact me as I deal with these types of claims on a daily basis on behalf of injured motorcyclists statewide.

Further, if you would like to have me come out to your Region to speak or give a presentation on the legal rights of an injured motorcyclist or on any specific topic that your region may be curious about, please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hesitate to give me a call at (248-5694646) or shoot me an e-mail at Dondi@buckfirelaw.com. I give presentations to Regions state-wide and there is never a charge associated with having me out. I enjoy having the opportunity to come out and meet motorcycle enthusiasts from all parts of our State!

Event Listings are FREE

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

August 2015

Events Events do change.

Please call ahead.

Michigan July 25 American Legion Riders of Michigan WilWin Ride for Our Veterans Departs C&S Harley-Davidson Mount Pleasant, Michigan Ends Kewadin Casino in Sault Ste Marie $25 / person Pre-register by June 25th Register day of ride at C&S H-D Send payment to Earl Ruttkofsky 9771 Wilson Rd., Lake City, MI 49651 Include return address

(616) 350-1463 www.vietnamlegacyridemi.com

Info on Facebook at Valley Trail Riders Motorcycle Club

August 1 Motorcycle Poker Run Starts at Wolverine Harley-Davidson 44660 N. Gratiot Ave. Clinton Township, MI 586.463.7700 $25 per person Info: (586) 598-9716 or (586) 615-4067

September 12 The Ton-Up Motorcycle & Music Festival Downtown Depot Town/Ypsilanti, Michigan Café Racer 10 E. Cross Street Ypsilanti, Michigan (734) 879-1201

August 2 Ride for Kids to support children fighting brain tumors Washtenaw Community College 4800 E. Huron River Drive Ann Arbor, MI Reg 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Dual sport starts at 10 a.m.

Road ride starts at 10:45 a.m.

Pre-register at www.rideforkids.org August 8 Swap Meet at Hamilton HD call for limited spaces Hamilton Harley Davidson 68951 White School Rd Sturgis MI 269-651-3424 www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com

July 25 5th Annual Support Our Troops Festival American Legion, Berrien County Baroda, MI Reg & Breakfast 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. $20 / person Ride leaves at 10 a.m.

Live Bands, Beer tent, Bike, Car & Truck Show, Helicopter rides www.supportourtroopsfestival.org troopsfestival49101@gmail.com July 26 Shiawassee Michigan H.O.G. Chapter #3271 15TH ANNUAL MYSTERY RIDE Sign in from 10:00AM Until Noon at Shiawassee Sports Center 11901 N. Beyer Rd. Birch Run MI. 48415 $15.00 per person includes a Scenic 100 mile Self-Guided Ride, Excellent Buffet Dinner, Lots of Door Prizes, Awards, A “ Big Pot” 50/50 drawing, Drawing for a new 2015 Street Glide, and Event Pins for the first 400 registered riders. All Event proceeds will benefit The Junction of Hope non-profit Restaurant.

For more information please call Judy at 810-965-6664 or Fritz at 989-323-0607

August 8 Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, Michigan Chapter 35-2 2nd Annual All Patriots Run to benefit Camp Liberty VFW Post #2406 695 Lansing Road, Charlotte, MI Reg 9:30 a.m. to noon $20 / rider; $10 / passenger (517) 515-9873 hunter.cvma@gmail.com August 12 (Wednesday) Talons Out Honor Flight Veteran’s Charity Event Help send WWII vets on an Honor Flight to their Memorial Cornwell’s Turkeyville USA 18935 15 ½ Mile Road Marshall, MI (269) 781-2247 or patti@turkeyville.com August 14 29th Annual Midnight Ride Departing from Meijer on 10 Mile Road (Exit #97 on US-131 Rockford, MI www.gwrra-mi-g.org www.jdrfwestmichigan.com

July 30-August 1 3rd Annual Alpena Bike Fest 6850 French Rd., Alpena, MI 21 and over; no pets $25 per couple (810) 300-2599 alpenabikefest@gmail.com August 1 Bikes for Trykes, Joe’s Ride Scooter’s Bar & Grill Flint, MI 9 a.m. registration 11 a.m. escorted ride begins 4 p.m. ride ends at Baron’s Motorcycle Club in Gaines, MI (810) 965-5548 jmason@michiganambucs.org

August 15 6th Davison Eagle Riders Prostate Charity Ride 3270 N. State Road, Davison, MI Reg 10 a.m. to Noon $10 per person (810) 653-0727 gripper47@yahoo.com

August 1 1st Annual Cross Road Bike Show Fritz’s Restaurant & Lounge M-15 & M-46 Intersection in Richville, MI $8 pre-registration; $10 day of event Reg 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Awards at 3 p.m.

(989) 823-3329 (989) 325-6688 August 1 Vietnam Legacy Ride MI Vietnam Memorial Lansing, Michigan TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

September 12 Red Knights Firefighters MC Poker Run and Steak-Out for Great Lakes Burn Camp Lenox Township Park 63775 Gratiot Avenue (between 29 and 30 mile roads) Reg 11 a.m. to noon $25 per bike; $50 with passenger Info: oldwiseass@Yahoo.com or (586) 557-0892 September 12 Paw Paw Grape Escape Motorcycle Ride To benefit the Great Lakes Burn Camp SeaLandAir Travel 513 E. Michigan Ave, Paw Paw, MI $25 per bike (269) 207-7710 September 12 The Ton-Up Motorcycle & Music Festival Depot Town / Ypsilanti, MI Café Racer 10 E. Cross St Ypsilanti, MI (734) 879-1201 September 13 Battle of the Brits Camp Dearborn Milford, Michigan

Indiana August 1 Get Wet for a Vet VFW Post 360 1307 E. Jefferson, Mishawaka, IN Reg. 8 a.m., Kickstands up 9:30 a.m.

Rider $15; Passenger $10 21 & older only www.facebook.com/getwetforavet August 1 8th Annual Rams Charity Ride Fighting MS one bike at a time IndyWest Harley-Davidson 6201 Cambridge Way Plainfield, IN Reg. 9 a.m.; Kickstands up at 10:30 a.m. $20 bike; Passengers free (317) 677-5960

August 21-23 Thunder in Oscoda American Legion Riders, Post 274 Oscoda, MI Free admission (248) 752-0424

August 1 1st Annual Anna Bell’s Ride Benefit to raise money for Child Abuse Awareness Everitt’s Sugar Shack 5560 Brookville Road, Indianapolis, IN $10 / rider; $5 / passenger Reg. 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Kickstands up: 11 a.m.

(317) 693-4197

August 22 Valley Trail Riders present 1/2 mile oval Motorcycle Dirt Track Racing Arenac Fairgrounds I-75, Exit 190, east two miles Standish, MI Gates Open at 9 a.m.

Practice laps at Noon Races start 2 p.m.

August 2 2nd Annual Road Construction Awareness Ride Indianapolis Southside HarleyDavidson 4930 Southport Crossing Place Indianapolis, IN Reg 9 a.m.; First bike out at 11 a.m. $20 / rider; $5 / passenger (317) 796-1133

(317) 372-8721 August 8 Rolling Inferno Northeast Brotherhood Bash Kendallville Eagles 1990 West North Street Kendallville, IN Reg 11 a.m.

Kickstands up at noon Ride: $20 per rider Bash: $20 entry fee (260) 564-1995 albion918@yahoo.com August 14-16 6th Annual Hog Daze at Ballard Field in Marion, IN 3 miles west of I-69 on State Route 18 $5 admission Gates open noon August 14th Join us in Marion, Indiana where the term “Hog” was founded. Celebrating the historical Marion International Motorcycle race where the first HarleyDavidson victory lap with a live hog took place, leading to the term hog becoming synonymous with motorcycles and forever making Marion, Indiana the Home of the Hog. We have an awesome music lineup with an old fashioned rockabilly night on Friday and a fantastic blend for Saturday. We will have fantastic food, rides, field events, a bike show, camping and tons of vendors.

Do not let the weather keep you away.

We have a huge entertainment tent.

Check the website or Facebook often for updates. Look forward to seeing you there. This is a family friendly charitable event sanctioned by our friends, ABATE of Indiana.

August 22 Ovar’Ride to fight ovarian cancer North start route: Southside H-D South start route: Bloomington H-D Finish: Mike’s Music & Dance Barn in Nashville, IN $25 / rider; $40 with passenger www.ovariancancerIN.org August 22 Templar Order Motorcycle Club’s 2nd Annual Dream Ride Starts at On the Roxx 2522 Portage Mall Reg. 9 a.m.; bikes out at 10 a.m. $20 / single; $25 / two up (219) 299-9049 www.chasingdreams.org August 23 Ride Or Rot Vintage Motorcycle Event Downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana 800 block of south Calhoun Street 1:00 p.m.

Photos & updates for 2015 event on our Ride Or Rot FTW Facebook page. group ride prior. Check back on Facebook for details.

August 29 23rd Annual Mark Allen Memorial Ride UAW Local 933 2320 S. Tibbs Avenue Indianapolis, IN Reg. 9 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

First bike out 11 a.m. $25 / rider; $15 / passenger (317) 709-1961 (317) 508-3865 September 5 3rd Standing Up for Our Youth Fundraiser to benefit our local children Buddy & Pals Place 1206 E. Summit Street Crown Point, IN Reg. 9 a.m.; Kickstands up at 11 a.m.

Rider $20; with Passenger $25

Midwest October 11 66th Annual Devil’s Staircase Hillclimb Oregonia, Ohio www.daytonmc.com September 26-27 The Big Woods 200 A 2-Day Dual Sport Event sanctioned by the American Motorcycle Association. Dual sport is a type of motorcycle riding which is a mix of off road trails connected with the use of roads. Participants of our events are from WI but we also draw participants from throughout the United States. Trails are used with permission and/or permits through the USFS, County forests, and private landowners. Trails range from 2 track, gravel, minimal pavement (as little as we can), and single track sections that are optional- Saturday’s route is usually about 130 miles and Sunday’s route is usually about 80 miles (though miles and routes change often yearly).

The motorcycles are street legal motorcycles that are fully off road capable. This event is held in Wabeno, WI. Registration fee includes camping, meals, trail support, t-shirts and two days of great riding through the Northwoods in Wisconsin. Funds raised from raffles and proceeds go to various local charities in Forest County and surrounding counties. This is truly exciting and rewarding for the Wisconsin Dual Sport Riders to be a part of. For more information or to register, visit the Wisconsin Dual Sport Riders website at www.widualsportriders.org/v3/ events.asp

17

Random Ramblings of a Rare Bird

The Fun and Folly of Riding Old Bikes

by Mike Mekinda There’s an inherent coolness in riding an old motorbike, particularly one from the 70s or 80s.

Not talking about a clapped out beater here, but a decent, well-ridden representative of the day. A proper example will never win a show trophy, but still looks good enough for the occasional “nice bike - used to have one of those...” from the guy at the gas pump. I mention the 70s and 80s because there’s still an abundance of these bikes left. Many were, and still are, really good looking bikes, and they’re not old enough (or perfect enough) to draw the ire of collectors who can’t believe you’re

actually riding a classic antique in the rain. After several years of only owning old bikes, however, I’m finding there is definitely a downside to basking in the cool of riding vintage.

My current riding projects include a 1973 Harley FLH with factory sidecar, and a 1982 Honda GL1100i Goldwing Interstate. I recently, reluctantly, parted ways with my 1988 Honda CBR1000F Hurricane to make way for something newer; its place in the garage remains noticeably empty. All three bikes were purchased in nice shape, but many years of sitting left each in need of major maintenance. Fluids were flushed and replaced, brakes overhauled, electricals metered, connections Repairs and Tune-Ups on All Motorcycles, ATVs & Mini-Bikes! cleaned, hoses replaced… and the list goes on to the Get Ready unrecorded minutiae of • Batteries • Tires • Brakes To Ride! repairs done while • Accessories • Parts New / Used completing the bigger • Oil Changes and Lube projects. Overall, my bikes are mechanically sound, and Used Motorcycles, ATVs aesthetically as nice as possible without full and Scooters Wanted!

Pick-Up and restoration. They’re great $$ Top Dollar Paid $$ Delivery Service fun to ride to the local bike Running / Not Running nights, occasional commutes to work, or rides along the 68271 Grand Trunk • (586) scenic route with Lovely Wife or Pretty Daughter to

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18

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grab a meal. More than that, however, and Left Brain kicks in and starts nagging Right Brain about the “what-ifs”, and the ride loses a bit of it’s fun - which brings me to the point of this rambling…

Riding an older bike means waves from folks in cars, especially kids. It means double takes at intersections, which might indicate being noticed by more drivers. It means waves from most other riders, regardless of brand loyalty, as many started on something similar (or always wished for the bike they couldn’t afford). It means nods from construction workers, and long glances from pedestrians. Riding an older bike, like driving a classic car, gets you noticed, and for all the right reasons. The down? It’s rare to spend less than 15 minutes at a gas stop. In fact, parking nearly anywhere will lead to a conversation about the bike.

“Original owner?” “How long have you had it?”

“How’s it run?” Then, “I had/ always wanted one of these back when…”, and the long story begins.

Fortunately, I usually love talking to folks, and I love hearing their stories. If I’m two-up, Wife or Daughter will usually say hello, then discretely fade into the building to get a table and start the ordering process, or wander off to do some shopping. They know it could be a while. There are times, however, when I just don’t have “a while” to spend, and I’ve got to get to work, or be somewhere else 10-minutes ago. And

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August 2015

Continued from previous page sometimes, I’m just getting “hangry” (perfect word for my “brick wall” hunger onset!), and all I want to do is walk inside and quietly get some food into my grumbling belly - and I wish I drove the car.

Riding an older bike means the visceral sensations that come with a vehicle that has not yet been perfected by modern engineering. The rumble of the engine that one feels through the bike, thanks to solid mounting and little insulation from the frame. The whir of the valvetrain over the sound of the wind, competing with the clatter of fat, non- 0ring drive chains. The clunk and creak of old body panels on stiff suspension and flexi-chassis. The roar of old-school tread on skinny tires over imperfect pavement. The incredible sensations that create a direct connection between rider, bike and road. The downside? That connection means pieces of the bikes are always coming loose, occasionally escaping the bike and making a dash for freedom at most inopportune times - like crossing a railroad track in a line of traffic! That direct connection also is responsible for that buzzy numbness in the extremities and manly bits (or lady-bits, of course) after a longer ride. Rides typically end with a wait for enough sensation in the fingers to use a wrench or screwdriver, since forgetting to tighten loose fasteners on this ride will only multiply problems on the next ride!

Riding an older bike means carburetors for fuel management, usually more than one in a (hopefully) synchronized bank. Properly set-up carbs work well, and, in my experience, seem far less finicky of fuel quality than FI. A bit of choke (remember those?), a little throttle, and they (mostly) fire right up and into a fast, warm-up idle. An added bonus is, if the battery is weak, one can push start a

simple carbureted bike - no battery, no fuel pump on a modern bike, and usually no electronic ignition either. The down to carbs is cringing on frigid mornings as I consider the cold metals in thick, cold lube that’s barely flowing, as parts slide, squish and bang at 2500rpm for a 3-5 minute warmup, before finally sputtering away. Yeah, I know they were like that for generations, but that’s also why my grandfathers considered 60,000 the maximum trade-in mileage on vehicles (motorcycles often required rebuilds much earlier), and we now drive them well over 100,000 miles. Carbs work fine most of the time, but I’ve been spoiled by the wonders of modern fuel injection, especially in the ever-changing NEOhio climate.

Riding an older bike (again, not a classic show piece) typically means the entry cost was minimal. They’re cheap to insure and, if it’s a bike that was reasonably popular, cheap to maintain.

Parts, both new and used, tend to be fairly abundant for all but the rarest bikes, so downtime waiting for repair parts is usually minimal. If something drastic happens to our old bike, we may be bummed, but not crushed if something should happen to it that can’t be

repaired. We can save time and just ride, because we don’t feel a compulsion to keep them shiny and sparkly. In some cases, you can even register/ plate them as classics or collectors bikes, and the plates are one-time for life. All sounds great, right?

Downside is nearly every ride begins and/or ends with some sort of maintenance, adjustment or repair. Parts may be readily available, but might require some creative searching to find a decent price. If prices seem unreasonable, the “racer’s tape repair” might be the chosen route. Even the inexpensive Collector registration comes has caveats - this can’t be your only bike, the one you’re putting 10,000+ a year on, and is intended for limited use. There is, however, a kind of upside to that restriction; rotating bikes to meet the spirit of the law requires a multiple bikes/ cars collection.

Legal rationalization for convincing the spouse you NEED a bigger garage and more old vehicles!

Riding an older bike seems like a fun and economical way to ride - and it can be. Older bikes are definitely best suited for local jaunts, though.

There are times that an inexpensive modern bike is the better way to go, and times you just WANT a big, expensive modern motorbike with all the comforts.. Admittedly, my age may have something to do with it, but I prefer my adventures to come from the travel, NOT the potential of learning another MacGyver fix on the side of an empty twolane in the rain - especially if with a wet passenger.

Not a chance that it would stop me from enjoying my older motorcycles, but, much like classic cars, I find one still needs a “daily driver”. Time to expand the garage- I’ve just strengthened my rationalization for owning even more bikes!

Be seen, ride smart, stay safe and I’ll see you on the road!

-mike

Triumph Detroit’s 20TH Anniversary Open House Saturday, August 22, 2015 • 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Join us as we celebrate Don’t You’re 20 years Miss It! Invited! in business.

Triumph Detroit 50662 Van Dyke, Shelby Township, MI (1/4 mile south of 23 Mile Road)

(586) 726-7400 www.triumphdetroit.com

Founder Paul Lasko will be joining us!

Food • Refreshments • Prizes • Giveaways TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

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Summer News Roundup

by Jason Waechter, Esq. Summer is in full swing here in the Midwest, which means there’s a lot going on for motorcyclists… and that’s not counting all the hours and miles we are logging on our bikes! Of course, this is a busy time for me as well, as The Motorcycle Lawyer, but also as an advocate for and promoter of motorcycle awareness and safety. With that in mind, I’ve compiled a few brief but relevant stories I thought were important enough to share with bikers here in the Midwest and across the country.

First off, I want to touch on lane-splitting. If you’re not familiar with the term, lane-splitting is when a motorcycle moves in the same direction as other vehicles but between the lanes of traffic. You see this a lot when freeways are backed up or traffic is slow.

Sometimes it is called whitelining, filtering, striperiding, or lane sharing. In most states, lane-splitting is illegal; however, in California it has always been legally ambiguous… not illegal, but not really legal, either. I bring it up because this spring, an exhaustive study by UC Berkley that found that lane-splitting is likely safe for motorcyclists, and may even be safer than not lane-splitting.

This landmark research is part of the reason lane-

splitting Bills have been cropping up across the country, though so far, none has officially passed to make lane-splitting explicitly legal.

I am looking for input from readers: if you’d like to share your opinion on lane-splitting, use the contact information at the end of this article.

Next, did you know that Alabama motorcyclists can ride legally without a motorcycle license or endorsement on their driver’s license? They are the last state not to require motorcycle-specific licensing, but that will change beginning January 1, 2016. The Senate recently approved a bill requiring a motorcycle endorsement or motorcycle license in order for a biker to ride legally on the road.

Many people, myself included, believe this is a good step in terms of motorcycle safety, as riders will now have to pass a skills test in order to be endorsed or licensed. Riders who already have an endorsement or motorcycle license will not have to re-take their skills test when the law takes effect. Whether required by law or not, I always recommend motorcyclists take a certified rider training course and get the proper license or endorsement in order to ride. What do you think? Get in touch and let me know.

Lastly, I wanted to touch on something a little more personal, that is very important to me both as The Motorcycle Lawyer, and as a fellow biker: Motorcycle awareness and safety. If you’ve read any of my past articles, you know that I am committed to promoting motorcycle awareness and safety in a variety of ways, from billboards to bumper stickers to providing all kinds of free legal and safety information on my website and social media. I’m always looking for new ways to get involved and spread the word, so I am pleased to announce that I recently donated $2,000 to ABATE of Michigan in support of the ABATE Awareness program. This program provides new vehicle drivers (think: high school kids taking driver’s education) with information about how to share the road with motorcyclists and bicyclists, and how they

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need to train themselves to be motorcycle-aware at all times. I love that this program tackles motorcycle awareness education on the ground floor, getting young drivers thinking about motorcycle awareness and safety from the beginning. I had the honor of hosting Vince Consiglio (ABATE of Michigan’s President) and Mark Buchanan (Director of ABATE Awareness) at one of my Michigan offices to present the check. I’m so pleased to be able to contribute to this excellent program, and hope that it will help to reduce motorcycle crashes, injuries, and deaths in the future. I’m curious to know how and if motorcycle awareness and safety is being taught in driver education programs in other Midwest states; let me know by reaching out via the contact information below.

That’s it: three quick updates on stuff that I think is interesting for motorcyclists across the United States. If you’d like to weigh in on any of these topics, suggest future article ideas, or ask a question (and I hope you will), contact me and my team on Facebook (facebook.com/ TheMotorcycleLawyer); on Twitter (@cyclelawyer1); or by email (writer@lawyerforlife.com).

Attorney Jason A. Waechter is a national attorney specializing in the areas of motorcycle and motor vehicle injury litigation. Mr. Waechter has collected millions of dollars in settlements, awards and verdicts for his motorcycle clients over the past 20 years. Jason feels a duty to give back to his community. A portion of each case settled goes to educational resources for bikers, funds to help bikers while their cases are being litigated and our motorcycle accident prevention campaign. Call Attorney Jason Waechter toll free at 1-877-BIKER LAW. Or visit www.TheMotorcycleLawyer.com Legal disclaimer: The law is very fact dependent and there are many nuances and exceptions depending on your particular circumstances. Therefore, given the limited space, it is impossible to cover everything. Do not rely on the short article to protect your rights.

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August 2015

The Preacher Speaks About ...

RLAP

by Franz Hoffer A couple months ago I introduced you to Gary Lewandowski and the Ride Like A Pro (RLAP) training program. Well, my son, Eric, son-in-law, Tony, my cousin, Frank, and I took the class recently and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who rides. The class we took was designed for experienced riders with at least 1,000 hours under their belt. We all fit that category so I figured it was a nice way to spend four hours (class started at 9:00am and ran till 1:00pm) and show off my riding skills. In my mind, I was going to smoke everyone.

Instead, the class was a humbling experience as it stretched our riding skills to the max. There were eight of us in the class including one young lady. I can say unequivocally that every one of us was a better rider when the class was over. But the proof in the pudding is to practice, practice, and practice some more. As Gary and his assistant, Cliff Crabtree, explained before we started, “we are not looking for perfection in these four hours, we are looking for technique. What we will teach you today will be difficult as it will go against what your brain tells you to do. Therefore, what you learn here needs to be honed by practicing on your own.

We will give you the tools to being a better, safer rider; it’s up to each of you to practice and use those tools to where they happen as second nature, so you can’t do it wrong.” So…what did we do in the class?

What could be so hard? Well, read on.

Emergency Braking: We individually ran our bikes up to 25 mph, upshifting into 2nd gear. At a designated point, we had to jam on the hand and foot brake coming to a complete stop without skidding. While the bike was coming to a stop, we had to downshift into 1st gear, putting our left foot on the ground for just a second as we came to a complete stop, and then accelerate quickly and veer to the left.

The concept being a hard stop with the bike completely under control and then quick downshift into 1st and hard acceleration to get out of the way of a possible vehicle coming up behind you.

It’s tougher than it sounds: we did this exercise six times.

Slow Race: The overall concept of the RLAP program is learning to effectively control your bike while riding it in the TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

friction zone while at the same time applying pressure to the rear brake. The friction zone is that area of the clutch between completely open and completely closed. This exercise challenges you to ride your bike, under control using the friction zone on the clutch and the rear brake.

Your speed is walking speed (1 to 5mph) and you have to maintain that several times around the track; while contending with both straight sections and turns.

Slow Cone Weave: Utilizing the same slow speed technique, we had to weave between six cones positioned 15 feet apart.

It seemed easy enough but again, it wasn’t.

The main trick, aside from controlling your bike at slow speed, is to look where you want the bike to go. It will go where you look. If you look directly at the cones then you run over them. You have to look just past the cone you are navigating (by about 5 to 6 ft) utilizing your peripheral vision to see them. Once past one cone, you look past the next one. Again, look where you want your bike to go. As we improved, the cones were moved closer together to challenge us more. We went down to 12 feet. It was difficult; we went through the cones six times.

The Circle: Designed to get riders over their fear of slow speed leaning. I had problems with the slow speed lean all class. A 24-foot diameter circle is is the course. They use 24 feet because most roads are built with 12-foot lanes.

The key - again - is to look where you want to go. You set your bike up so the front wheel is tight on the cones; then looking 3 to 4 cones ahead and about 4 to 5 feet above, you navigate the circle. It’s tough to get it through your head to look where you want to go and not just ahead of the bike. It’s tough but it works. We did the circle sixtimes each.

The Offset Cone Weave: Designed to perfect left-to-right transitions. Two sets of cones are set up over 30 feet with 12 feet between the two rows of cones. The cones are set up offset in the two rows. You weave back and forth between the two sets of cones; right to left, then left to right.

The key is to not look directly at the cones but to look ahead and as you pass the cone on the second row, snap your head around and get ready for the next turn. Again, it looks easy but is challenging. We did this six times each.

The U Turn: The trick to a U-turn is to never focus on the opposite side that you don’t want to hit. The cones are set up at 24 feet and you have to approach and execute the U-turn. It.seems easy enough but, again, things are not always what they

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Michigan

Harley-Davidson

Dealer Events

For a complete list of Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Association Members, see the dealer locator on page 23.

July 25 BBQ, Bikes & Blues Live Music with Dirty Basement Blues, Free BBQ featuring Pulled Pork Sandwiches (while they last!), and awesome contests with a chance to WIN $5000!

ABC Harley-Davidson 4405 Highland Road (M-59) Waterford, MI 248.674.3175 July 25 15th Annual Bike Show Shiawassee Sports Center 11901 N. Beyer Rd. Birch Run MI. (989) 624-4400 July 26 Shiawassee Michigan H.O.G. Chapter #3271 15TH ANNUAL MYSTERY RIDE Sign in from 10:00AM Until Noon at Shiawassee Sports Center 11901 N. Beyer Rd. Birch Run MI. $15.00 per person includes a Scenic 100 mile Self-Guided Ride, Excellent Buffet Dinner, Lots of Door Prizes, Awards, A “ Big Pot” 50/50 drawing, Drawing for a new 2015 Street Glide, and Event Pins for the first 400 registered riders. All Event proceeds will benefit The Junction of Hope non-profit Restaurant.

For more information please call Judy at 810-965-6664 or Fritz at 989-323-0607 August 1 Sturgis Pre-Party Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Rd Battle Creek, MI (269)979-2233 August 6-9 Sturgis Bike Night,Open House, and Bikini Bike Wash Grand Rapids Harley-Davidson 2977 Corporate Grove Dr. Hudsonville, MI (616)896-0111

August 8 Swap Meet at Hamilton HD call for limited spaces Hamilton Harley Davidson 68951 White School Rd Sturgis MI 269-651-3424 www.hamiltonharleydavidson.com August 8 Ride for the Red ABC Harley-Davidson 4405 Highland Rd (M-59) Waterford, MI (248) 674-3175 August 8 Annual Teddy Bear Ride Great Lakes Harley-Davidson 3850 S. Huron Rd Bay City, MI (989) 686-0400 August 8 40 Years with Harley-Davidson Celebration Town & Country H-D 18655 U.S. 12 Cement City, MI (517) 547-3333 August 8 Ride for the Cure Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Rd Battle Creek, MI (269)979-2233 August 15 Summer Luau Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Rd Battle Creek, MI (269)979-2233 August 22 Vegas Day! Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Rd Battle Creek, MI (269)979-2233 August 29 Scavenger Hunt Capitol Harley-Davidson 9550 Woodlane Dr Dimondale, MI (517)646-2345

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Continued from previous page seem. We did this exercise six times each way. First, a Uturn to the left and then U-turn to the right. It’s difficult to avoid looking at that curve; it goes against what your brain wants to do but it’s the only way you will ever navigate the U-turn in the allotted 24 feet.

Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Association Members

Intersection Exercise: This exercise gives you practice with quick left to right transitions. The cones are set up in a cross configuration. The arms, head and foot of the cross are all at 24 feet. You ride through the cross executing 4 U-turns, going from one into another. This is done with both left and right executed U-turns.

1. Battle Creek

12. Muskegon

BATTLE CREEK HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 5738 BECKLEY RD, BATTLE CREEK (269) 979-2233, www.battlecreekharley.com

HOT ROD HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 149 SHORELINE DRIVE, MUSKEGON (231) 722-3653, www.hotrodhd.com

2. Bay City

13. Sturgis

The Figure Eight: This calls for you to do a figure eight around cones set up at 24 feet; you do this exercise both left and right. The 24-foot requirement, while difficult, makes sense as you have the real world situation of 24 foot road widths.

GREAT LAKES HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 3850 S. HURON ROAD, BAY CITY (989) 686-0400, www.greatlakeshd.com

HAMILTON HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 68951 WHITE SCHOOL ROAD, STURGIS (616) 651-3424, www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com

3. Birch Run

14. Tecumseh

The Preachers Comments: A humbling but great experience. I am not ashamed (but a little embarrassed) to admit I dropped my bike about 6 times in the various exercises but, by the end of the session, was doing much better (especially at picking up my bike!). I have practiced since the class and while I still can’t do them all within the 12 or 24 foot requirement, I am getting closer. I will keep practicing. That’s the whole concept behind the exercises; teach you technique so you can practice. I am proud to say my son, Eric, was the top rider in the class and my son-in-law, Tony, was right behind him. My cousin, Frank, and I finished somewhere in the middle.

My friends, take the class. Please take the class. You will all be better, safer and more confident riders because of it.

SHIAWASSEE HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 11901 N. BEYER ROAD, BIRCH RUN (989) 624-4400 www.shiawasseeharley-davidson.com

TECUMSEH HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 8080 MATTHEWS HIGHWAY, TECUMSEH (517) 423-3333

4. Cement City

15. Traverse City

TOWN & COUNTRY HARLEY-DAVIDSON® US 12 & US 127, CEMENT CITY (517) 547-3333, www.cementcity-harley.com

CLASSIC MOTOR SPORTS HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 3939 S BLUE STAR DRIVE, TRAVERSE CITY (231) 943-9344, www.classictc.com

5. Fremont

16. Waterford

SANDY’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® SPORT CENTER 11940 N. MAPLE ISLAND RD, FREMONT (231) 924-3020 www.sandysharley-davidson.com

A.B.C. HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 4405 HIGHLAND RD (M-59), WATERFORD (248) 674-3175 www.abc-harley-davidson.com

6. Gaylord

17. West Branch

ZIP’S 45TH PARALLEL HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 980 S WISCONSIN AVE., GAYLORD (989) 732-8000, www.zips45thhd.com

GILDNER’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® MOTORCYCLES 2723 S M-76, WEST BRANCH (989) 345-1330, www.gildnershd.com

7. Hudsonville Contact Info: Contact Gary Lewandowski direct at gary@ridelikeapro-gl.com or at 586-246-4344 or visit their website for more info at http://ridelikeaprogl.com/.

SPECIAL THANKS TO PAT ARMITAGE WHO PHOTOGRAPHED AND GAVE ADVICE. Pat Armitage - “I attended this class as a photographer to help out my friend, Franz. I have ridden for 42 years and for 20 of those years, I taught people to ride for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and Harley Davidson’s Riders Edge. I trained with MSU Police Motorcycle Training for Civilian Riders. I taught a class based on this training myself for a few years. Prior to attending this class, I was familiar with Ride Like a Pro having reviewed several of their excellent videos. The videos are great but the real way to learn riding techniques is to take a class.

Observing how this class is structured and taught left me impressed. I would highly recommend this class to anyone who is serious about improving their riding skills. If you are not interested in bettering your skills, I must ask “why not?” Mere street experience does little to improve your skills beyond the minimum basics. Do you really want to ride well? Training is the only real way to do it. This class is the place to start improving. Don’t put it off. Sign up for the next Ride Like a Pro class this year.

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GRAND RAPIDS HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 2977 CORPORATE GROVE DR., HUDSONVILLE (616) 896-0111, www.grandrapidsharley.com

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8. Kalamazoo PERRY’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 5331 SPRINKLE ROAD, KALAMAZOO (269) 329-3450 www.perryharley-davidson.com

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9. Lansing CAPITOL HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 9550 WOODLANE DRIVE, DIMONDALE (517) 646-2345, www.capitolhd.com

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10. Lapeer RAY C’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 1491 S. LAPEER ROAD, LAPEER (810) 664-9261, www.raycsh-d.com

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www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

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11. Mt. Pleasant C & S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 4741 E PICKARD, MT PLEASANT (989) 772-5513 www.candssportcenter.com

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August 2015

TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

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MOTORCYCLE WRECK? Call the MOTORCYCLE LAWYER!

1-877-BIKER-LAW

WE TAKE AUTO & TRUCK CASES TOO! Hurt in a crash?

Call Jason Waechter - The Motorcycle Lawyer

1-877-BIKER-LAW

www.TheMotorcycleLawyer.com

33rd Annual

Battle of the Brits Motorcycle & Car Show and Swap Meet

2015 Sunday, September Brits of the 13, Battle 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Camp Dearborn 1700 General Motors Road, Milford, MI Supporting Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation

Presented by the Metro Triumph Riders

ACCOMMODATIONS Camping Is Available On Site!

Rental cabuins are also available!

Go to www.campdearborn.com or call (248) 684-6000

METRO TRIUMPH RIDERS STORE Visit the red MTR trailer to purchase a variety of club and show items

FOOD AND BEVERAGES: Available throughout the day

Judges’ Awards for Best in Show!

AWARDS PRESENTATION: 3:30 p.m. near the red MTR trailer

PARTICIPANT VOTING: - Ends at 1:00 p.m.

- Only votes submitted by 1 p.m. will count!

Battle of the Brits

SHOW BIKE REGISTRATION Day of event: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon Pre-Registration By mail…see entry form below

Save time on event day by pre-registering.

Plus, receive a coupon for $5 off on a Battle of the Brits t-shirt!

SHOW REGISTRATION FEES Motorcycle entries: $10.00 per bike + $5 Camp Dearborn entry fee at gate Swap-meet spaces: $40.00 for first space (15’ wide x 40’ deep).

Additional spaces, $30 each. + $5 Camp Dearborn entry fee at gate SPECTATOR ENTRY FEE $5 per vehicle

Area offers great roads and many points of interest nearby!

An AMA-Sanctioned Event. Be There, Rain or Shine!

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO:

www.metrotriumphriders.com or call 586-944-7456

Become an MTR member: Apply on our web site or pick up a form at the show!

Motorcycle Classes

1. Master Class · Only bikes in this class are eligible for (3) Best in Show awards! · Open to all British motorcycles, including café racers, customs, etc. · Will be judged by a panel of experts · All Master Class entrants will receive a free Battle of the Brits t-shirt!

CLASSES 2-20 ELIGIBLE FOR PARTICIPANTS’ CHOICE AWARDS, including best in class (1st, 2nd, 3rd)

Modern Triumph Classes (Hinckley-built bikes, 1990- ) 2a. Cruisers (Bonneville America, Speedmaster, Rocket III, Adventurer, Legend) 2b. Modern Classics (Bonneville, T100, Thruxton, Thunderbird, Thunderbird Sport, Trident) 2c. Urban Sports (all Daytonas, all Sprints, all Trophy models, Speed Four, Speed Triple, Tiger)

3. Triumph and BSA Triples Trident and Rocket 3 (1969-76) 4. Triumph Oil-in-Frame Twins 650 and 750 (1971-88) 5a. Triumph Oil Tank Unit Bonnevilles all 650 twin-carb models (1963-70) 5b. Triumph Oil Tank Unit Other other 500 & 650 models (1963-70) 6. Triumph and BSA Pre-Unit Twins all pre-unit twins 7. Triumph and BSA Singles all singles, unit and pre-unit 8. Norton Commando 750 all 750cc models (1968-73) 9. Norton Commando 850 all 850cc models (1973-77) 11. BSA Unit Twins A50, A65, etc.

12. Vincent all models 13. British Open/ Vintage Ariel, Enfield, Velocette, etc.

14. British Competition track bikes, scramblers, racers 15. British Café Racers including Triton, Norbsa, Norvin 16. British Choppers/Customs mild, wild, weird, and wacky 17. Italian Ducati, Moto Guzzi, MV, Aprilia, etc.

18. German and European BMW, Bultaco, Montesa, Ural, etc.

19. American (pre-1984) Harley-Davidson (pre-Evo), Indian, etc.

20. Scooters and Mopeds Vespa, Lambretta, Cushman, etc.

Battle of the Brits Pre-Registration Form

Name: ___________________________________________________________________ Phone: ________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________City: ________________ State: _________ Zip: ______________________ Email: ________________________________ Class Model Make Year

Number of vendor spaces required ____ Number of bikes x $10 ____ ____ Vendor spaces x $40 Additional spaces X $30 ____ _____ Total Enclosed Mail check or money order in U.S. funds only, please, to: Metro Triumph Riders, P.O. Box 700521, Plymouth, MI 48170