Midwest Motorcyclist(TM), December 2016 issue

December 2016

FREE Celebratingg

18 Years

midwestmotorcyclist.com

The Complete Guide to Motorcycling in the Midwest

TESTED: The New

American Motorcycle That Isn’t a Cruiser

Gift Ideas

inside

2016 S 1000 RR $15,695 (including ABS)

The epitome of a race-winning superbike The S 1000 RR revolutionized the supersports class when it first came out in 2009. For 2016, the S 1000 RR model has been completely revised. Now in its third generation, you can instantly see its increased power. The new S 1000 RR has an output of 199 hp - 6 hp more than its predecessor. But it is not just its higher rated output that makes the Double R faster and more agile.

Weighing in at 450 lbs including ABS and traction control, it is some 8.8 lbs lighter than the previous version. Furthermore, it has a newly designed exhaust system as well as a new engine set-up for increased torque, an improved output curve and many other optimized details. Well-equipped at an MSRP of $15,695 plus tax, title and all other local charges.

A facelift is not enough.

Increased output, reduced weight.

Revised down to the last detail.

BMW-Motus Motorcycles of Grand Rapids 5995 South Division Grand Rapids, MI (616) 530-6900 www.bmwmcgr.com Š2016 BMW Motorrad USA, a division of BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name and logo are registered trademarks.

D L O B THE

S S E L T N E L E

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F call (800) 59 R U O Y T GE ider.com or Visit r

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Midwest Motorcyclist

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Columns 14 16 17

IN THIS ISSUE…

A Year Well Spent: Highlights of 2016 and a Peek at 2017

by Jason Waechter Motorcycling & Law: Bill to Include Slingshot as a Motorcycle by Dondi Vesprini The Preacher Speaks About... The Encyclopedia of the Motorcycle and Other Stuff

by Franz Hoffer

Features, News & Reviews cc media publications

This Month’s Contributors:

6 7 8 12 13

Tested: The Newest American Motorcycle That Isn’t a Cruiser by Ray Peabody XR400R Adventure Project: Tweaking and Riding by Ray Peabody 2016 AIM Expo Dealer Show by Gene Southard Camp Liberty Raffling Dozer Cycle Studios’ Crusader Custom to Benefit Veterans Services Hop up the Holidays with Gifts from Harley-Davidson

4 5 17

Advertiser Index To Our Readers Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Event Schedule

Resources Contributing Editors Franz Hoffer plus

Gene Southard, Dondi Vesprini, Jason Waechter

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 1998-2016 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, free-lance 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.

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Large cover photo: Motus President Lee Conn leading a ride along the Thornapple River in West Michigan by Ray Peabody.

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Harley-Davidson ............17, 18, 19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Zip’s 45th Parallel H-D...................17, 18, 19 Battle Creek Harley-Davidson....17, 18, 19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 BMW-Motus of Grand Rapids............2, 7, 12, 14 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 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1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Cycle Conservation Club .........................7 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Diamond Gusset Jeans ......................12 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Gildner’s Harley-Davidson ...........17, 18, 19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Grand Rapids H-D............................17, 18, 19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Great Lakes Dual Sporters ..................12 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Great Lakes Harley-Davidson......17, 18, 19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Great Lakes Ride Like a Pro....................11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Hamilton HarleyDavidson ................17, 18, 19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Holeshot Harley-Davidson ................17, 18, 19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Hot Rod Harley-Davidson .................17, 18, 19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Jason Waechter, The Motorcycle Lawyer..20 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Jerry B’s Cycle Works.........................10 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1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Motorcycle Solutions, LLC......................11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Peerless Beta Tools...............................5 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Perry’s Harley-Davidson ............17, 18, 19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Ray C’s Harley-Davidson...............17, 18, 19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Retail Warehouse .........................8, 14 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Rider Insurance....................................3 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789 Sandy’s H-D ....................................17, 18, 19 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Wear Hi Viz Riding Gear

December 2016

This is our last issue of 2016. For me, this has been the best riding and publishing season in the last five.

Not only did I ride more miles, but those have been quality miles. Part of the reason for enjoying riding more has resulted from exploring, not with a destination in mind, but exploring for the sake of seeing and experiencing new things. While that didn’t include riding in some exotic locale, it did allow me to see areas of the Midwest I hadn’t previously enjoyed. like the Leelanau Peninsula and northwest Ohio. The great riding was helped by the clear, sunny skies and warm temperatures we’ve had for much of this season. The fact that it’s midNovember and we’re still riding is awesome. I plan to keep riding until the snow covers the asphalt.

When spring comes, I plan to explore other areas in

this region.

This year I’ve ridden some truly interesting motorcycles including the Motus MSTR featured in this issue, the Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special, the Triumph Thruxton, the Indian Springfield, and the Victory Octane. There is really no rhyme or reason to the choice of motorcycles tested.

Opportunity knocks and I ride. Most all of the test rides this year have been eye opening. Sometimes regularly riding a particular style of motorcycle can leave us somewhat jaded in our opinion of other styles. There are lots of excellent motorcycles in the market from which to choose. I feel fortunate to have been able to ride some of these beauties. No doubt that is one of the perks of being a motojournalist.

This has also been a better year for advertising when compared to the last five or so.

We’ve been fortunate that many of our existing advertisers have continued to promote their businesses in our magazine and also that other businesses have been willing to give us a try. (Thank you!) We’re not getting rich but increases in revenue are always welcome. Keeping existing customers and attracting new ones is a direct result of our readers’ willingness to buy from them. If readers aren’t buying from our advertisers, there’s no benefit to them to continue that expense.

Thank you for supporting this magazine by buying from our advertisers. Your support is very much appreciated.

We look forward to continuing to serve you in 2017. While our business is small, we’re always looking for interesting motorcycles, people, rides, and events to cover as well as relevant national, regional and local news to share. If you have ideas for subjects we should be covering, send me an e-mail at publisher@midwestmotorcyclist.com with your thoughts. We always like to hear from readers.

Thank you for reading. We hope you enjoy this issue. Feel free to share it with your friends and family. Best wishes to you, your family and friends for a wonderful Christmas (or whichever holiday you celebrate during this time of year) and a happy, healthy, prosperous 2017.

See you on the road or at an event in the near future.

BETA Tools Make Excellent Gifts!

Here’s one example: If you need to move around a lot of tools, while storing them in the smallest footprint possible, you will love the C41H tool trolley from Beta Tools. This super-compact size (21" W x 10" D x 36 1/4" H) rolling tower is really 3 toolboxes in one!

• A removable top hand tool box (8 7/8" high) with a lift-out tray • A rolling lower cabinet with three drawers (two 3 3/4" high and one 11 1/2" high, each 16 1/4" wide x 7 7/8" deep) on ball-bearing slides • A pull-out 9-compartment box for storing small parts • Extra-long or awkward tools can be secured to the back using four built-in bungee cords (2 per side). All three drawers are secured via a single keyed lock on the side. Each drawer is also held firmly shut until its release button is pushed.

• The sheet steel construction and plastic tops make this cabinet surprisingly strong and durable. Even though it weighs just 54 pounds empty, each drawer can hold up to 33 pounds of tools. The telescoping handles and oversize wheels make it easy to maneuver up and down flights of stairs. Orange panels with black tops and black Beta logos.

Available on

Imported by Peerless Hardware www.Peerless-BetaTools.com Beta Tools of Italy has a rich history in motor sports, a sector it enjoys strong professional ties with. More than 40 years on the tracks and in the team workshops have helped to test many advanced technical solutions, constantly raising the quality levels of Beta products. Still today in fact, you will see the Beta Tools logo throughout the main motorsports industries including such series as Moto GP and Superbike. The unique design of Beta Tools, tailored to specific applications, makes Beta Tools the must-have items in the tools boxes of professional tool users. Since 1939, Beta Tools of Italy has been known as a premium quality brand of hand tools and tool storage used by all kinds of professional tool-users.

TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

5

Tested

The Newest American Motorcycle That Is Not a Cruiser

By Ray Peabody It’s the kind of motorcycle best described by two words you won’t often read together: hooligan sporttourer. It incorporates the comfortable seating position and body work of a sport-touring motorcycle but underneath that carbon fiber is a firebreathing small-block V-4 that could put your operator’s license at risk. This two-wheeled rocket has been in the news for a few years but its actual release to the public always seemed distant timewise. That wait ended in mid-2015 when the first two production models of were made available to the public.

The recent opening of Motus of Grand Rapids (aka BMW-Motus Motorcycles of Grand Rapids) provided an opportunity to examine the new Motus motorcycles up close and take one for a ride.

There are two models in the Motus line-up. They are similar in their styling and componentry but there are distinctions. The base model MST uses the same 1650cc, 100 cubic

inch, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected V-4 as the MSTR but the MST’s engine produces 165 horsepower whereas the same engine in the MSTR has been re-tuned to put out 180 hp and 126 foot pounds of torque. The engine is plenty stong enough to power a sport-touring motorcycle. However, there is more to these motorcycles than the engine.

The seating position is comfortable. The standard Sargent seat on either model offers firm support with enough cush to keep the rider comfortable. The MST uses an Ohlins front fork and Progressive rear monoshock while the MSTR uses Ohlins suspension both front and rear. Either setup can be tuned for the weight of the rider and the type of riding (i.e., firm and sporty or plush and comfortable and all points in between) he or she does.

The braking system does not incorporate ABS and likely won’t in the future. Motus president Lee explained that the Brembo calipers – Brembo M4 monoblock calipers on the R model – are some of the finest available and are the appropriate braking solution for the Motus motorcycles.

The composite materials used in the bodywork were selected for light weight and high strength. The wind protection from the bodywork and manually adjustable windscreen is adequate.

My observation is that the Motus is built for experienced, highlyskilled riders who want to tour in comfort and at speed. It doesn’t appear to be “over engineered” but instead incorporates the features it needs to be an exhilarating, highly functional ride. The test ride would determine whether that observation is accurate.

Motus History When reflecting back on news about Motus, it seems like the company has been around for more years than is actually the case. In fact, Brian Case, Motus V.P. and Director of Design, and Lee Conn, Motus President, first met by chance while visiting the Barber Motorsports Park in 2006. Both long-term motorcycle enthusiasts, the two struck up a conversation that evolved into a friendship.

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www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

They began going on motorcycle trips together and, during one long trip in 2007, decided to become business partners. They launched Motus in 2008.

Each had specific skills to contribute to the new business: Case designed the Confederate Wraith motorcycle and Conn was an entrepreneur with experience in aircraft manufacturing.

According to Conn, key to the successful design of the Motus motorcycles was finding the best partners to assist in development. Case took his designs to successful engineering companies like Pratt and Miller Engineering, based in New Hudson, Michigan, to assist in the development of the bikes. Pratt and Miller was a solid choice because of their testing and development experience as well as their championship wins in a variety of motorsports.

Case explains in an interview posted on the company website that he drew a lot of inspiration for the Motus design from the Baby Block V-4 engine that had been created for the Motus. For example, the 15 degree forward tilt of the engine has two benefits: it helps keep the heaviest part of the engine low in the frame for better handling while also providing an aggressive, powerful profile. “It looks like a bull charging a wall,” says Case.

Continued on page 11

December 2016

since the leaking stopped after one long ride.

Unfortunately, that means there is still debris in the carburetor that will have to be removed. I’ll save that project for the winter when I am no longer riding.

The one bit of progress that I’ve made since last month is that the Tusk handlebar risers have been ordered. When I stand on the footpegs while riding in soft dirt or gravel, I’m slightly bent over at the waist even when bending at the knees. That position is OK for short distances but is uncomfortable for longer rides. The risers will hopefully let me stand straighter on the pegs and provide better control in soft dirt. We’ll see.

Next month I hope to report more progress on aspects of the project that will make the XR more adventure worthy. In the meantime, I’m riding!

Honda XR400R Adventure Project, Part 2

Tweaking and Riding

By Ray Peabody

tires grab and push the dirt more effectively than After a fast start on the XR400R Adventure when the tires were at 30 psi, the handling in the project, progress has slowed. That’s not a bad thing. dirt and bumps was more stable. The XR still needs On the upside, I’ve been riding the bike a a suspension set up but the lower tire pressure made lot thanks to the excellent fall weather we’ve been controlling the bike less of a fight in the meantime. having. The XR has – so far – turned out to be a The Shinko tires are are proving to be an excellent good choice for this project. It’s a blast to ride. It’s choice for both pavement and dirt so far. torquey and launches from a dead stop. Top speed I think I’ve finally found the starting isn’t that fast but it might be fast enough for my procedure that enables me to start the XR in three purposes. The XR cruises effortlessly at 60-65 mph kicks, four max. It is kick-start only which means and that’s plenty of speed for two-lane roads. With the fewer kicks needed to get it that in mind, I’m reconsidering a change in the running, the better. I’ve tried several sprockets until I have a better idea about whether I N O N - C O M P E T I T I O N • MAINTAINED TRAILS different procedures I found on need to do that.

ThumperTalk. Several had me worn A second reason for delaying a sprocket • ORGANIZED EVENTS out from kicking before it started. change arose from something my friend, Matt • FAMILY FUN Admittedly, I haven’t had a kick start Russell, asked me. After telling him how much I • ALL LEGAL motorcycle since I was a teenager, so liked the XR, he wondered why I was thinking of part of the problem might be my making the gear change. Might I regret having technique. Once I found the right made the change when I get onto the trails and need procedure, I discovered that I’m that low-end torque for a tough hill, he asked. The enjoying the question forced me to The XR400R project motorcycle even recognize that I was bike before mods. more. thinking more like a One other street rider than a dual problem I had early sport rider. While it is on seems to have easier to get both when corrected itself. (I you have a multisure wish that cylinder engine, and I would happen could be proven wrong more often on all on this, it’s a little more sorts of projects!) difficult to get both low The carburetor end torque and higher No place to ride? Michigan is home to the largest organized network of overflow was top speeds from a off-road trails in the world - more than 3500 miles of marked, maintained leaking like a sieve from the time I thumper (single cylinder engine.) As I try to figure ORV trails for the entire family to enjoy! Since 1968, The Cycle Conservation opened the petcock until I got it this issue out, I’ll stick with the set up I have.

Club of Michigan has led the charge to assure continued access to public started. Considering the fact that I was After installing the Shinko 700 Series lands for motorized recreation by working closely with state and federal having trouble getting the bike Adventure tires, I set the front and rear tire pressure government. Membership in the CCC offers organized trail rides, a map CD of started, this was a lot of gas. I at 30 psi. In hindsight, that was too much pressure the entire trail system, a subscription to the Great Lakes TrailRider Magazine suspected one of two problems; one considering the way I was planning to use the XR. and a host of other member benefits! Call us today at 517-781-4805. would be debris in the needle and seat Once I reduced the pressure to 24 psi, both handling that prevents the needle from closing and traction improved. Combined with the rather The Cycle Conservation Club of Michigan completely or, two, a problem with stiff suspension, the tires track like a supermoto PO Box 486 t $PMEXBUFS .* t XXX DZDMFDPOTFSWBUJPODMVC PSH the float – possibly a hole – that keeps racer through the curves on the pavement. Very the float from rising as the fuel fills up happy with that side of the Honda’s performance. the bowl. My thinking now is that the By reducing the tire pressure, traction in problem was probably the first issue softer dirt improved dramatically. Not only did the

Let’s Go Trail Riding!

Pre-Owned Motorcycles 2015 BMW R 1200 RT-P, 2015 BMW R 1200 RT-P, 2015 BMW K 1600 GT, 2015 BMW R nineT , 2015 BMW R nineT , 2015 Triumph Tiger 800 XCx, 2013 BMW K1600 GTL, 2012 BMW G 650 GS Sertao, 2012 BMW K 1600 GTL, 2012 BMW K 1600 GTL, 2012 Ducati Diavel,

White/Black, 201 miles, White/Black, 900 miles, Sakhir Orange, 1,300 miles, Black, 2,807 miles Black, 2,506 miles 6,550 miles, Loaded, Dark graphite, 22,150 miles, Blue & White, 19,685 miles, Mineral Silver, 48,900 miles, Royal Blue, 18,000 miles, Red, 10,500 miles,

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BMW-Motus Motorcycles of Grand Rapids 5995 South Division, Grand Rapids, MI TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

Largest Inventory of pre-owned BMW Motorcycles in the Midwest!

BLUE, 18,600 miles, $6,950 Mojave Brown, 72,968 miles, $8,950 Magn. Beige, 32,555 miles, $9,990 Black/White, 22,210 miles, $9,950 Silver, 26,225 miles, $4,950 Graphite, 29,834 miles, $8,250 Silver, 15,300 miles, $5,995 Grey, 133,000 miles, $3,500 Blue, 25,769 miles, $5,903 Silver, 70,813 miles, $3,950 Red, 2,967 miles, $2,700

(616) 530-6900 www.bmwmcgr.com 7

2016 AIM Expo Dealer Show

By Gene Southard

Hurricane Matthew threathened to cancel the AIMExpo this year. I was keeping a close eye on the weather radar as I boarded the plane for Orlando. We were in luck as Matthew stayed off the Florida coast and the Orange County Convention Center was saved from any damage. The East coast of Florida was not so lucky.

The Expo had a few changes from last year.

Not only was it bigger with more than 300 exhibitors, it also moved to the North Concourse to be closer to the outdoor Demo Rides. Several of the

OEM manufacturers had organized demo rides in the parking lot. These manufacturers included BMW, Can-Am, Kymco, Suzuki and Yamaha. Sideby-side and quad demo rides were offered by BRP, Kymco, Suzuki and Yamaha on a specially built dirt track in the parking lot. Unfortunately, most of my time was spent indoors talking to the many manufacturers and distributors about the new products they were introducing as well as lining up product reviews for upcoming issues of Midwest MotorcyclistTM. The Expo is open to the Trade and Media on Thursday and Friday and then to retail customers on Saturday and Sunday.

Area hotels provide from BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan shuttle service not only to the convention center but Sleek travel tumbler with premium double-wall stainless also to the tourist steel construction and foam insulation for extended attractions nearby like temperature retention. Features rubber base pad and Disney World and thread on lid with snap open and close teb. Metal Roundel Universal Studios. There embedded on one side with the BMW Motorrad text were also many attractions opposite. Fits under most single serve machines. 12 oz. inside the show.

Imported Trials rider Adam Holbrook did a stunt show jumping on and off the top of his enclosed trailer.

Pair this 3-D S 1000 RR keychain with your bike, or on your Adam has more balance in other keys as a reminder of your time on two wheels. Rubberhis little finger than I have ized to prevent scratches. Dimensions: 2.75” x 1.5”. Imported. in my whole body. Legends

and Heroes is an exhibit of early motocross bikes and gear. The custom and vintage bike show had some very interesting machines.

There were several meetings and an awards ceremony held at the Expo. The AMA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was held on Thursday night along with the annual AMA membership meeting. The Moto America Awards Ceremony was on Friday night. Many of the current and past road race champions could be seen at the show signing autographs. I spent some time talking to James Rispoli’s dad about James’ racing in the British Superbike Championship.

Gift Ideas

Roundel Travel Tumbler

S 1000 RR Rubber Keychain

Several of the manufacturers, including Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Moto Guzzi and KTM, unveiled their 2017 models at the show. After talking with Aprilla, I am looking forward to doing my first road test on the new Caponord Rally.

There is good news for riders in the Midwest wishing to attend the AIM Expo next year.

It will be held at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio on September 21-24, 2017. The move to the Midwest should increase attendance and the weather will be just right for a ride to the Expo.

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

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(269) 651-2464 Fax: (269) 651-8767 1640 S. Centerville Road (M-66 South) , Sturgis, MI We accept all major credit cards Call (269) 651-2464 now or visit our on-line store at www.ridewild.com

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

December 2016

BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan

CHRISTMAS PARTY Saturday, December 10, 2016 Join us in celebrating Christmas and the New Year. Always a fun time, we’ll have special pricing throughout the dealership, food and refreshments and much more. It’s the perfect opportunity to wrap up your Christmas shopping for the motorcyclist in your life. It’s also a great time to take a demo ride, assuming the weather permits.

Hope to see you on December 10 at our dealership!

BMW is bringing a gift for Christmas

0.9% interest rate OR up to $3,000 in consumer incentives* on remaining 2015 and some 2016 models.

Stop by our dealership today to find out why this is the best season to buy. Don’t wait! The values won’t last long!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Help us continue our success as one of the most successful Toys for Tots collection centers in the area.

We are accepting donations of new, unwrapped toys from now through Christmas. Help make a local area child’s Christmas a little better in 2016 with a toy donation.

January 28, 2017 - Bus trip to the Cleveland International Motorcycle Show Call our dealership or visit our website - www.bmwmcsem.com - for details or to reserve your space.

We’ll be announcing the scheule subjects for our winter seminar series soon.

Call our dealership or visit our website - www.bmwmcsem.com - for details or to reserve your space.

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

“Redefining your motorcycling lifestyle” SM * 0.9% interest rate OR up to $3,000 in consumer incentives on the 2016 BMW K 1600 GTL Exclusive, 0.9% interest rate OR up to $2,500 in consumer incentives on the 2016 BMW K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL, 0.9% interest rate OR up to $2,500 in consumer incentives on the 2016 BMW K 1300 S. Stop by our dealership for information about other interest and consumer incentive programs.Subject to credit qualification through BMW Financial Services. Offer valid through 11/30/2016.

Visit BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan for details. Always ride safely and wear proper protective gear.

TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

9

SWEET TRIKES We also have kits for Victory & Indian motorcycles.

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Offering all Harley-Davidson FLs and Softails, Honda VTX1300, VTX1800, Gold Wing and Valkyrie Trikes and Trike Kits. Call for more information.

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586.773.BIKE (586.773.2453) Located at 25430 Harper in St. Clair Shores Two blocks North of 10 Miles Road on the East Side

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www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

December 2016

Continued from page 6 - Motus Case’s design offers a minimalist style with a focus on the motorcycle’s mechanics. “Form follows function,” said Case. “We use bodywork like you would drape lingerie on a beautiful body; to accentuate, not to cover.”

The company finished testing their prototypes in 2012 and revealed the full production versions at the MotoGP race at Laguna Seca in 2013.

Each motorcycle is built by hand at a factory in Alabama making the Motus a truly American motorcycle. The first production models were made available to the public in mid-2015.

Eight years might seem like a long time to develop a motorcycle. Another way to look at this time frame is to appreciate that these two guys took a motorcycle from conception to public availability in only eight years. Quite an impressive feat.

Test Ride Blane Kamp, owner of BMW-Motus Motorcycles of Grand Rapids, offered to let me take his new MSTR out for ride. This seemed especially brave since the MSTR retails for a base MSRP of $36,975. I’m not certain who was taking the greater risk, him or me.

He reviewed the operation of the motorcycle with me. Aside from the computer screen mounted in the center of the dashboard, the controls on the Motus are standard. One interesting anomaly is the actuation of the cruise control using the starter button.

After the review, he started the Motus up and gave the throttle a couple of blips. Have you ever had the experience of hearing a song and being mentally transported back to the time when that song was popular? That was my experience upon

hearing the exhaust note of that Motus V-4. I spent a good deal of time around hot rods and muscle cars in my youth and the exhaust note coming from that engine reminded me of that time. It was a rumble that turned into a roar when the throttle was twisted. It was the sound of potential g-force torque and triple-digit speeds.

I was fortunate to have Motus President, Lee Conn, take the lead on a test The Motus Baby Block V-4. (Photo ride with me. Lee is a skilled courtesy of Motus Motorcycles) rider who doesn’t suffer slow pokes. By the time we were a quarter mile from the dealership, our pace was “spirited” as we slashed our way through traffic to get to country roads and curves.

My first two impressions were what I call “Holy Crap, hold-on-tight” acceleration and then “Whooosh!” as we cut through air and traffic like a low-flying jet. The ride-by-wire throttle control meant that a twist of the grip generated an instantaneous response at the rear tire. I thought I was riding fast but noticed that Lee was getting smaller in the distance ahead of me.

I slowed as we entered some curves on a twolane road that runs alongside a river. Not Lee. No brake light and apparently no downshift either. He simply leaned his MST over and sliced across the apex.

By the time I rounded the corner, he was already through the next curve. My speed increased through the next few curves as I got more confident in the R’s handling.

The fact is that, despite its 565 pound wet weight (including fuel and side bags), the Motus is light and nimble through the curves. When asked

about the handling, Lee mentioned that the Pratt & Miller design has the push-rod Baby Block V-4 sitting longitudinally, low in the frame and tilted 15 degrees forward to optimize weight distribution and lower the center of gravity. That configuration also moves heat down and away from the rider for greater comfort.

In all too short a time, the demo ride was over and it was necessary to return to the dealership; the next group of riders scheduled for a demo ride would be waiting. We turned onto the freeway for a quick return and accelerated through the six-speed dual overdrive gearbox.

I came away from the demo ride impressed with the Motus. It’s exhilarating to ride. It’s both powerful and comfortable. On the downside, it also brings out the hooligan in me. I’m not sure whether I would have the self-control to ride the Motus in a safe, legal manner. I guess I’m fortunate that, at an MSRP of $30,975 for the MST and $36,975 for the MSTR, I can’t afford to park one in my garage. For those with the resources, this might be one of the most fun, unique motorcycles you can buy.

Thanks to Blane Kamp for loaning me his MSTR for this ride. Thanks also to Lee Conn for leading the ride and sharing the Motus story with me. For more information, visit BMW-Motus Motorcycles of Grand Rapids at 5995 South Division in Grand Rapids. You can also call the dealership at (616) 530-6900 or visit their web site at www.bmwmcgr.com.

Give your motorcyclist the gift of professional rider training.

Call today!

EĞǁ >ŽĐĂƚŝŽŶ͗ ϯϱϭϵ :ĂĐŬŵĂŶ ZĚ͘ ŝŶ dŽůĞĚŽ͊

PRO GREAT RIDE LIKE A PR O – GREA T LAKES As a Rider do you Fear dropping your bike?

Are you a “Foot Dragger”? Do you “Walk the Dog” at red lights?

Do you know how to pick up a dropped motorcycle?

Do you feel unsteady when riding at slow speeds?

Do you wear out your boots before your tires?

Do you take up 3 lanes of traffic to make a U-Turn?

WE CAN HELP! The RIDE LIKE A PRO program was started by Jerry “Motorman” Palladino, a retired police motor officer living in Florida. Jerry has created an incredible training tool with his series of “Ride Like a Pro” Instructional DVDs!

EĞǁ Θ hƐĞĚ tŝŶƚĞƌ ^ƚŽƌĂŐĞ WĂƌƚƐ͕ ĐĐĞƐƐŽƌŝĞƐ Θ ƉƉĂƌĞů ŝŬĞ WŝĐŬͲhƉͬ ƌŽƉ KĨĨ tĞ ĐĂŶ ŚĞůƉ ǁŝƚŚ ǁŝŶƚĞƌ ƉƌŽũĞĐƚƐ͗ ĐĂƌď ƌĞďƵŝůĚƐ͕ ĐLJůŝŶĚĞƌ ŚĞĂĚ ƌĞƉĂŝƌ͕ ĂĐĐĞƐƐŽƌLJ ŝŶƐƚĂůůĂƚŝŽŶ͕ ƚŝƌĞƐ͕ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ Θ ŵŽƌĞ͘ ŽŵďŝŶĞ ƐƚŽƌĂŐĞ Θ ƉƌŽũĞĐƚ ǁŽƌŬ ƚŽ ƐĂǀĞ ƚŝŵĞ Θ ŵŽŶĞLJ͊

ϰϭϵͲϳϮϬͲϰϯϭϯ

Riders come from all over to take Jerry’s classes in Florida, and you too can learn these same fundamental skills that the motor officers use. Even experienced riders will show a noticeable improvement in their overall riding skills!

These same instructional classes are available here in Michigan!

Visit: www.ridelikeapro-gl.com for up-coming 2017 class dates and locations, or contact Gary at: 586-246-4344

gary@ridelikeapro-gl.com TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

11

Camp Liberty Raffling Dozer Cycle Studios Crusader Custom to Benefit Its Veterans Services Major Richard Briggs (Retired, USAF), cofounder and Board Member of Camp Liberty, has announced that the organization is raffling off the Crusader custom motorcycle built by Dozer Cycle Studios. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit the Camp, a 137-acre restricted-access facility located in Norvell Township in Jackson County, Michigan.

The organization offers “programs designed to aid in the rehabilitation and reintegration of U.S. Military Service Members, Veterans and their families in a natural outdoors setting.”

The Crusader is powered by an air-cooled Harley-Davidson 80 cubic inch EVO v-twin with a S&S E carburetor mounted in a rigid frame. The exhaust is from Vance and Hines. The HarleyDavidson five-speed transmission is controlled by a foot clutch and hand shifter. The styling combines the looks of a bobber and chopper with 16” tall ape hanger handlebars. (See picture accompanying this article.)

Raffle tickets for the Crusader are $20 each. Only 4,000 tickets are being printed so the odds of winning are significantly better than the lottery. The drawing will be held during the Diamonds and Spurs Gala on Feb 18, 2017 at the Laurel Manor, Livonia, MI at 9 pm.

Proceeds go into the Camp Liberty general fund and will be used on mission priorities as set by the organization’s allvolunteer Board of Directors. For more information about the raffle and to purchase

Now in Michigan

The MOTUS® is a sport-touring bike with the soul of an American muscle car. And the MV4 is the heart. Built in Alabama.

Stop by our dealership to check the newest American sport-touring motorcycle.

Powered by a small-block V-4, the Motus is built for longdistance, spirited rides. NOW IN STOCK! Call or visit our dealership for details.

The V4 Baby Block®, is a 1650cc (100ci), liquid-cooled V4, is a “clean sheet” engine design. When it comes to torque, V-engine configurations are renowned for just that. Power ranges from 160-180 bhp, depending on the specific engine version (V4 or race inspired V4R) with peak torque above 120 ft lbs.

BMW-Motus Motorcycles of Grand Rapids 5995 South Division, Grand Rapids, MI (616) 530-6900 • www.bmwmcgr.com 12

tickets, go to https://campliberty.org/crusader-custom-builtmotorcycle/.

Founded in July 2012, the mission of Camp Liberty is to “provide inclusive outdoor recreation programs that aid in the reintegration of U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families, with an emphasis on assisting those with post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries.” (https://campliberty.org/) The Camp is operated through a long-term land sharing agreement. Under this agreement, Camp Liberty Inc. utilizes this property for its recreational and therapeutic programs. A multiyear conservation plan has been implemented to restore this property to a native Michigan habitat in

cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture’s Conservation Reserve Program, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Partner’s for Fish and Wildlife program and with the support of conservation organizations such as Pheasants Forever, Safari Club International, and the National Wild Turkey Federation.

For more information about Camp Liberty and its services, visit their website at https://campliberty.org/.

The Great Lakes Dual Sporters is a like-minded group of offroad motorcyclists who enjoy riding Michigan’s vast two-track trails and back roads. All done using a street legal dirtbike also known as Dual Sport.

If you’re looking for fantastic dualsport riding and the company of great friends, join us. Check out our website at www.gldsmc.org to learn about our group, our events and much more. Only $10 to join!

www.GLDSMC.org

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

December 2016

HOP UP THE HOLIDAYS WITH GIFTS FROM HARLEY-DAVIDSON

Great Deals on Christmas Gift Ideas

New Gift Ideas Available Online and at Harley-Davidson Dealers Nationwide MILWAUKEE (November 12, 2016) Selected for editorial holiday special sections, these six easy-to-buy gift ideas are from Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories® and the Harley-Davidson® MotorClothes® collections. These items are available at select authorized retail locations in the United States and also online.

To make gift-giving easier, the Wish List feature on Harley-Davidson.com can be used to create a list of items a registered participant would like to buy in the future or receive as a gift. The list can be shared online, emailed or printed. It’s a great way to drop a hint and help others know exactly which items would make the perfect gift.

MEN’S CHAIN STITCH 59FIFTY CAP

Top off any weekend outfit in style with the Men’s 59FIFTY Cap (P/ N 99461-17VM, $35.00*). This official 59FIFTY silhouette by New Era features chunky chain stitch dimensional embroidery on the front, a woven label on back and an official 59FIFTY visor sticker for authenticity. The cap is durable 80 percent acrylic/20 percent wool with a stretch-fit back in S, M, and L sizes.

AIRFLOW HEATED HAND GRIPS

For riding comfort on cool mornings and frigid nights the Airflow Heated Hand Grips (P/N 56100107, $269.95*) offer thermostatic control of variable heat settings and adjust to ambient temperatures. The self-contained control circuit and control knob means there are no additional switches or controller boxes to mount, and the grips are switched on/off with the ignition to avoid draining the motorcycle battery. The Airflow design combines a traction-grip crosshatch rubber surface with a comfortable 1.6-inch diameter for excellent control in wet or dry weather. These grips fit 2016-later Dyna® Low Rider S and Softail® and 2008-later Touring and Trike models. See an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for fitment details.

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A Local, Non-Affiliated MotorcycleEnthusiast Club Seeking

New Members Sport Touring is Our Middle Name!

We Ride!

The 0.9% interest rate on the purchase of a new BMW motorcycle has dramatically increased our pre-owned inventory. We have lots of bikes and Jeff is making deals. Stop by our dealership today to make your best deal on a pre-owned motorcycle! Here is an example of a motorcycle currently in our pre-owned inventory.

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

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Crafted in soft denim that’s faded in all the right places, the Women’s Genuine Classic Denim Shirt (P/N 99159-17VW, $75.00*) is a long-sleeve top that goes with everything. The 100percent cotton denim fabric has a distressed appearance and the shirt is detailed with pearlized snaps on the front and cuffs, a snap-down collar and two snap-flap chest pockets with pearlized snaps. It’s finished with a woven label on front-left hem, embroidered graphics, and an embroidered raw-edge appliqué on back. Offered in XS to 2XL and Plus sizes.*Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), excluding taxes and shipping. Prices at local dealerships may vary.

2012 BMW K 1600 GTL, Loaded, Single Owner, Showroom clean, Current on service, Ready to ride, $12,999

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...All Makes of Bikes ...All Over the Country ...On Back Roads ...On Racetracks ...At Novice-Advanced Levels Our members come from all across Michigan and we ride many makes of street bikes - including: • Aprilia • BMW • Buell • Ducati

• Harley-Davidson • Honda • Kawasaki

• Suzuki • Triumph • 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 Augie Fernandes at Membership@MSTRiders.com or Info@MSTRiders.com www.MSTRiders.com • On

: Michigan Sport Touring Riders

13

black & white

A Year Well Spent: Highlights of 2016 and a Peek at 2017

by Jason Waechter, Esq. client was badly injured, and yet the negligent driver hired a four-attorney defense team and tried to argue that he (my client) was more than 50% at fault for the crash, mostly because he wasn’t wearing a helmet. If that argument had convinced a jury, the negligent driver would have been off the hook for noneconomic damages, which cover longterm effects of the crash, such as disfigurement, scarring, loss of enjoyment of life, and pain and suffering.

This rule, known as the 50% rule, applies specifically in Michigan.

Of course, I filed a motion to prevent the defense from arguing that my client’s riding without a helmet was inherently negligent, but my motion was denied. So, I explained that, in fact, my client was totally legal to be riding without a helmet in Michigan: his motorcycle was properly registered and insured, he had his CY endorsement, he was over 21 years old, and had the mandatory $20K in additional medical coverage. I asked the judge and jury to consider how the defense could claim my client, who went to such great lengths to ensure he was riding legally, was negligent. Next, I took the courtroom through my client’s injuries, and demonstrated that even if my client had worn a helmet that day, he couldn’t have prevented being hit by the negligent driver, and the helmet wouldn’t have had an Saturday, December 3, 2016 impact on most of his injuries. On the other hand, Join us at our Christmas Open House if the driver had done a to celebrate the Holiday season. simple shoulder, mirror, and blind-spot check, the • Storewide specials • Door prizes accident may never have • Food & refreshments happened.

In the end, the jury sided with my client: Meet Team BMWMCGR Road Racer, they did assign him some fault in the crash, but it Robbie Scudder, at the Open House wasn’t more than 50%, Robbie started riding in 2009, at the age of 22, when he bought his first road bike. In meaning that under 2010, he spent most of his riding at track days with Sportbike Track time and other Michigan law, he was still private track days. He bought his first dedicated track bike in 2011 and got his race entitled to non-economic license. In 2012, he started racing with WERA and AHRMA. Robbie went on to win damages. This was AHRMA National Championships in 2013, 2015, obviously a huge win for and 2016. In 2016, Robbie and BMW my client and his family, as Motorcycles of Grand Rapids partnered to well as for my team and I... have Robbie represent us on our 2016 BMW but it also highlighted just S1000 RR. On the RR, Robbie took a 1st, two 2nds, and a 3rd on his first race weekend with how much work is still our team at Grattan Raceway. Robbie finished needed to get drivers to be off the season with six additional top 5 finishes more Motorcycle Aware, in WERA Regional races and two top 10 and the need for more and finishes in one WERA National Series event. better education about why riding without a helmet is BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids not inherently negligent.

Back in October, 5995 South Division, Grand Rapids, MI I mentioned that I had been (616) 530-6900 www.bmwmcgr.com named to the latest Super Lawyers list, as well as the Latitude 41.855022 Longitude -85.66382

It’s hard to believe that in just a few weeks, 2016 will be over. Overall, Mother Nature was pretty good to motorcyclists in the Midwest this year, but in spite of the extended riding season, the year still seems to have flown by at record speed. This is always a bittersweet time of year; with many things coming to an end, and others just getting started. I wanted to take some time to celebrate some of the highlights of 2016 for my team and me, and to look ahead to what’s coming next in 2017.

My team and I were very fortunate this year to be able to help so many injured motorcyclists and their families to get justice. One of the cases we took on this year, deemed “unwinnable” by other local attorneys, ended up being a highlight both for my team and I as well as for the injured motorcyclist we were representing.

I wrote about this case during Motorcycle Awareness Month, back in May of 2016: My client was riding his motorcycle when he saw a minivan stopped in the lane ahead of him. Just as he attempted to go around, the negligent minivan driver attempted to turn around on the road, without even looking first, and slamming directly into my client mid-turn. My

Christmas Open House

14

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

Best Lawyers® list. To remind you, Super Lawyers rates lawyers from all over the United States in more than seventy practice areas in order to come up with a list of the top attorneys in each state. It is a huge honor to be included on this list, as only about the top 5% of attorneys in each state are included. In order to be listed, attorneys must be widely recognized by their peers and reach a high level of professional achievement. And, as per their website, Best Lawyers® has become “the definitive guide to legal excellence” in the United States. The Best Lawyers® selection process is extensive and rigorous, and only a small number of attorneys will ever reach this milestone. I am humbled and grateful to have been included once again on both of these lists.

However, perhaps an even bigger highlight was finding out that my team and I have once again been selected for the Best Law Firms list, which names law firms that have been “recognized for professional excellence” and also get “persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers”. I cannot tell you enough how proud I am to have such an outstanding team to work with; they consistently go above and beyond for our clients.

Finally, a big highlight for my team and I this year was all the tips, tricks, feedback, and suggestions we received from readers all over the world. One of our themes this year was “finding new roads”, so we asked readers and followers to tell us about their favorite adventures, gear, and routes… and we weren’t disappointed! Many fans shared their “favorites” with us, and reading them inspired me to explore one of my own favorites: Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP) this riding season, which I discussed in my last article.

I rode along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, stopping in Marquette to see some of the sights and grab a bite to eat. Then, onward through Houghton and Copper Harbor, where I got to really appreciate the natural beauty unique to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. If you’re looking for a great Midwest road trip next riding season, I highly recommend a visit to the UP. We have more information about great rides across the USA available on our website.

Looking ahead, the only word to describe 2017 accurately is “more.” We want to help more motorcycle accident injury victims and their families to get justice. We want to reach more injured motorcyclists in order to offer help. We want to spread the word to more motor vehicle drivers that “Motorcycles are Everywhere.” And, we want to help prevent more motorcycle accidents, injuries, and deaths. On behalf of my team, I want to wish you all the best during this holiday season, and a Happy New Year!

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.

December 2016

12 Days of Christmas Sale December 10-23, 2016 Saturday, December 10

Monday, December 12

All Victory & Indian Accessories in Stock

All Tires in Stock

20% OFF

20% OFF

20% OFF

20% OFF

20% OFF

20% OFF

Saturday, December 17

Monday, December 19

Tuesday, December 20

Wednesday, December 21

Thursday, December 22

Friday, December 23

All Gift Items in Stock

All Motorcycle Storage Items in Stock

All Indian Apparel in Stock

20% OFF

20% OFF

20% OFF

All Victory, Indian, Aftermarket Parts, Acc., Apparel, etc. in Stock

Tuesday, December 13

Wednesday, December 14

All Indian Victory Chrome All T’s & Sweatshirts Accessories in Stock Accessories in Stock in Stock

All Aftermarket Parts All Victory in Stock Accessories in Stock

20% OFF

20% OFF

Thursday, December 15

20% OFF

Friday, December 16 All Victory Logo Apparel in Stock

Holiday Open House Saturday, December 17, 2016 Join us in celebrating Christmas and the other holidays of the season. We’ll have food and refreshments. The showroom is full of 2017 Indian Motorcycles® and Victory Motorcycles® plus it’s the perfect time to finish up your gift shopping for the motorcycle enthusiast in your life. You could buy something for yourself while you’re here. Don’t miss what is sure to be the best party of the season.

2017 Indian® Chieftain®

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

248.920.2000 • www.RideMotorCity.com

2017 Victory Octane®

on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MotorCityMotorcycles

Indian® and Indian Motorcycle® are registered trademarks of Indian Motorcycle International LLC. Victory® and Victory Motorcycles® are registered trademarks of Polaris Industries Inc. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing and obey the speed limit. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

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Crusader Custom Raffle to Benefit Camp Liberty

$20 per ticket

Only 4,000 tickets will be sold Drawing on 2/18/2017 To learn more about Camp Liberty, visit their web site at https://campliberty.org. To purchase a raffle ticker for the Crusader Custom, go to https://camp-liberty.org/ crusader-custom-built-motorcycle.

The proceeds from the sale of the Crusader will fund recreation, training and support programs for our combat injured and disabled veterans, through Camp Liberty.

“LOOK TWICE, SAVE A LIFE” MOTORCYCLES ARE EVERYWHERE 16

Motorcycling & Law

Bill to Include Slingshot as a Motorcycle

by Dondi Vesprini This fall we enjoyed unseasonably warm weather which served to extend the riding season beyond that period of time we are accustomed to. As fall moved forward, not only did I observe more motorcycles on the roadways than I am used to seeing this time of year but I also saw more of another vehicle that seems to have gained more and more popularity as time has gone on. I am speaking of the Polaris Slingshot or “The Original 3-Wheeled Roadster” as it is called on the Polaris website. You have likely seen them, with their sports car looking front riding on two open wheels, the two passenger go cart looking cockpit complete with steering wheel and five-speed manual transmission, and the one wheel supporting the rear. Below is a photo of a Slingshot:

It is a very different looking motorcycle. No, that is not a typo. This vehicle would be classified as a motorcycle under Michigan’s Motor Vehicle Code if Senate Bill 1120 passes.

The Michigan Vehicle Code has a definition for an “autocycle”, which presently is defined as “an enclosed motorcycle that is equipped with safety belts, rollbar, windshield, wipers, steering wheel, and equipment otherwise required on a motorcycle, and which has no more than 3 wheels in contact with the roadway at any 1 time.”

The Michigan Vehicle Code presently defines a “motorcycle” as “every motor vehicle having a saddle or seat for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than 3 wheels in contact with the ground but excluding a tractor.”

Apparently, the legislators in Lansing did not believe that a vehicle such as the Slingshot fit in either category, making it a class of vehicle without a definition for purposes of regulation under the Michigan Vehicle

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

Code.

Thus, Senate Bill 1120 was introduced on October 16, 2016 which would change the definition of an autocycle to read “A motorcycle that is equipped with safety belts, rollbar or roll hoops, steering wheel, and equipment otherwise required on a motorcycle, has not more than three wheels in contact with the roadway at any one time, and is not equipped with a straddle seat.” The Bill would change the definition of a motorcycle to read “a motor vehicle that has a saddle or seat for the use of the rider and is designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground. Motorcycle includes an autocycle, but does not include a tractor.”

By virtue of including an autocycle in the definition of a motorcycle, vehicles such as the Slingshot would be deemed a motorcycle for purposes of the Michigan Vehicle Code given that it meets the definition of an autocycle.

This would mean that under the Michigan Vehicle Code, any regulation which applies to a “motorcycle” would by definition thus apply to a Slingshot or any other similar three-wheel vehicle that meets the definition of an autocycle.

Such regulations include but are not limited to Michigan’s modified motorcycle helmet law and noise regulations regarding decibel levels of noise that the vehicle produces.

The analysis of the bill by the Senate Fiscal Agency states that the bill would have a minimal impact on the number of individuals who would not be required to have motorcycle endorsements on their licenses. This is likely because, while falling under the motorcycle definition under the Bill, it would appear that Slingshot riders would not be required to get a motorcycle endorsement on his/her license, as the motorcycle endorsement law specifically excludes persons riding an “autocycle” from the requirement.

Also, if the Bill passes and the government includes Slingshots or similar three-wheeled vehicles as a motorcycle for purposes of compiling

Continued on page 18

December 2016

Michigan

The Preacher Speaks About...

The Encyclopedia of the Motorcycle Harley-Davidson and Other Stuff Dealer Events

by Franz “The Preacher” Hoffer

For a complete list of Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Association Members, see the dealer locator on page 19.

When it comes to books about motorcycles, the more pictures the better. A friend gave me a book called Encyclopedia of the Motorcycle

by Peter Henshaw (on Amazon for $27.27 new, used around $9.00 to $13.00). The book is 448 pages of articles about motorcycle history and lore. I couldn’t put it down.

The book is arranged in alphabetical order and starts with the first motorcycle manufacturers through the present day. Some things I learned: Indian was in business from 1901 through 1953 (excluding its present form as part of Polaris). Early nickname for Indian was “Wigwam” and they preceded Harley-Davidson by two years. Their peak year was 1913 when 32,000 Indians were manufactured and sold. That was also the year that Indian went from a private company owned and run by two motorcycle enthusiasts (George Hendee and Oscar Hedstrom) to a publicly-held company with shareholders to keep happy. Their first VTwin was introduced in 1907 and was 640cc at 39 HP and was a 42 degree (Harley is 45 degree) V-Twin. When motorcycle sales started to decrease, they attempted to diversify; they dabbled in outboard motors, airplanes, and a small car. Right after the depression, with the company short on cash, Indian was acquired by E. Paul Dupont, part of the wealthy Dupont family. They supplied motorcycles to the Army in WWII but the lion’s share of that contract went to Harley-Davidson. The company was sold shortly after the war to industrialist Ralph Rogers. The company stopped producing motorcycles in 1953. There were two attempts to resurrect the brand in the mid 1990’s and early 2000’s but both efforts failed. The rights were eventually picked up

by Polaris which still produces and sells Indians.

BMW - Bayerische Motoren Werke started producing motorcycles in 1921 and the BMW’s of today still exhibit that same style.

The company was actually started during WWI in 1917 with the intention of building airplanes, but they only built 70 airplanes before the war ended. They decided to diversify and started building both cars and motorcycles. After WWII, Germany was prohibited from building any kind of powered/motorized vehicle. That restriction was lifted by the Allies in 1948 TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

and BMW went to work building some of the most technologically advanced motorcycles in the world.

Norton – 1902 to present. Norton motorcycles were probably the best-known racing bikes in the 50s and 60s. They were known for their superior handling.

Through several bouts with bankruptcy, the company has managed to stay in business with government financing (British) and several buy-outs. In 1972, the British government required Norton, Triumph, and BSA to merge in order to secure financing.

That company has since been broken up and sold several times but Norton motorcycles are considered highly desirable vintage motorcycles.

Victory – 1998 to present. Polaris, manufacturers of ATV’s, Golf Carts, Jet Ski’s, and Snowmobiles, noticed the successes of Harley-Davidson and Honda in the motorcycle market and decided it was time to get in. They had little experience in the market so their engineering team purchased Harleys, Hondas, Yamahas, Ducatis, and almost every other brand and tore them down to see what made them tick. It remains one of the top selling brands and it’s styling (since Arlan Ness began working with the company) is second to none.

The book features so many pictures and articles on motorcycles that you’ll want it as part of your library.

You may recall that I did an article on Midwest Motorcycle Training this past summer. My son, Eric, has taken two of their classes and has started to enter their competitions. His interest was piqued when he and I took the Ride Like a Pro Class put on

by Gary Lewandowski. I have not taken the Midwest Motorcycle Training and had no

Continued on next page

November 25 Black Friday Event ABC Harley opens at 8am for our Black Friday Event. FREE gift to the first 50 people with any purchase.

20% off all end of season Motorclothes, licensed merchandise, and after market parts, from 8am to 10am. 15% off all end of season Motorclothes, licensed merchandise, and after market parts, from 10am to 6pm. Enjoy free food, and a chance to win a 2017 Street Glide. PLUS, don’t miss our POWER HOUR from 2pm to 3pm! Free gift to first 25 people with any purchase.

ABC Harley-Davidson, Inc. 4405 Highland Road (M-59) Waterford, MI 248.674.3175 November 25-26 Black Friday – November 25 Chrome Saturday, November 26 Capitol Harley-Davidson 9550 Woodlane Dr., Dimondale, MI 1 Phone: 517.646.2345 November 25-26 Black Friday – November 25 Blacker Saturday – November 26 Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Road, Battle Creek, MI (269) 979-2233 November 25-26 November 25 - Black Friday – Nothing Like the Mall November 26 – Orange Saturday Gildner’s Harley-Davidson 2723 South M 76, West Branch, MI (989) 345-1330 November 26 Black Saturday Hamilton Harley-Davidson 68951 White School Road (US-12) Sturgis, MI (269) 651-3424 November 26 Big Snack Saturday Enjoy a variety of free snacks while catching all the big football games on our big screen tv. Plus, you can enter for a chance to win a $100 gift card!

ABC Harley-Davidson, Inc. 4405 Highland Road (M-59) Waterford, MI 248.674.3175 December 3 Toys for Tots Toy Drive Bring in a new, unwrapped toy for Toys For Tots and we’ll give you a free gift!

Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Road, Battle Creek, MI (269) 979-2233

December 3-4 Toys for Tots Drive ABC Harley-Davidson, Inc. 4405 Highland Road (M-59), Waterford, MI 248.674.3175 December 10 Pictures with Santa & Cookie Exchange Come get your FREE picture with Santa Claus & munch on some cocoa & cookies!

Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Road, Battle Creek, MI (269) 979-2233 December 10 Ladies’ Day Zips 45th Parallel Harley-Davidson 980 S. Wisconsin Ave, Gaylord, MI (989) 732-8000 December 16 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Men’s Night Out Men’s-Only Shopping Night Enter to win a $50 Gift Card Ray C’s Harley-Davidson 1491 S. Lapeer Rd. (M-24 & I-69), Lapeer, MI (810) 664-9261 December 17 Ugly Sweater Party Wear your ugly Christmas sweaters and get your Christmas shopping done!

Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Road, Battle Creek, MI (269) 979-2233 December 17 Men’s Day Zips 45th Parallel Harley-Davidson 980 S. Wisconsin Ave, Gaylord, MI (989) 732-8000 December 24 Last Minute Christmas Eve Shopping Come in and get your last minute Christmas shopping done! We’ll even wrap them for you!

Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Road, Battle Creek, MI (269) 979-2233 December 24 Big Snack Saturday Enjoy a variety of free snacks while catching all the big football games on our big screen tv. Plus, you can enter for a chance to win a $100 gift card!

ABC Harley-Davidson, Inc. 4405 Highland Road (M-59), Waterford, MI 248.674.3175

17

Continued from page 16 - Motorcycling & Law motorcycle crash statistics, there is always the possibility for skewed study results for better or for worse as Slingshot accidents would be grouped under the same umbrella as traditional motorcycle accidents for purposes of analyzing the number of accidents, fatalities and helmet usage in accidents.

As of the drafting of this article, the Bill had been referred to the Transportation Committee in Lansing for consideration.

It should prove interesting to see if this bill adopts the Slingshot and similar three-wheel vehicles like it as the newest breed of motorcycle . . . . complete with a steering wheel and cockpit seating.

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 don’t hesitate to contact me as I deal with these types of claims on a daily basis on behalf of injured motorcyclists statewide.

Further, for those readers who are members of any motorcycle organizations, clubs or groups, if you would like to have me come out to your group to speak or give a presentation on the legal rights of an injured motorcyclist or on any specific topic that your group may be curious about, please don’t hesitate to give me a call at (248-569-4646) or shoot me an e-mail at Dondi@buckfirelaw.com. I give presentations 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!

Dondi is a licensed attorney in the state of Michigan and is recognized as an expert in cases involving motorcycle accidents. He has obtained millions of dollars in recovery for injured motorcyclists over the course of his career as a trial attorney. Dondi’s representation of motorcyclists extends beyond the court room. He is a member of the Board of Directors of ABATE of Michigan and meets frequently with both legislators and lobbyists regarding legislation affecting injured motorcyclists and the rights of motorcyclists to ride free.

Continued from previous page - The Preacher intention of doing so. But after the Ride Like a Pro class, I realized that I wasn’t as good a rider as I thought so I practiced the techniques Gary taught. I found that the more I practiced the better I got and the more challenges I wanted. I spent an afternoon with Eric recently and he put me through some of the rigors of the Midwest Motorcycle Training classes. I am hooked and am signing up for a class. I plan on doing an article while taking the Primary Class and will be brutally honest (as I always am) on how I did and what I think. In addition, there will be a Midwest Motorcycle Challenge and Safety Seminary on August 25, 26, and 27 hosted by Wolverine HarleyDavidson in Clinton Township, MI for Police and Civilians. Save that date, you will want to be there to see these incredible competitions.

The Midwest Training schedule for the Primary Class for 2017 is as follows. April 8-11, 20-23, 27-30; May 4-7, 11-14, 25-28; June 1-4, 8-11, 15-18, 22-25, 28 - July 1; July 6-9, 13-16, 27-30; August 3-6, 10-13, 17-20. Price for the four-day Primary Class is $900 with rental (you will want to use one of their Road Kings); $600 with your own motorcycle. Class HOURS: 8am - 4pm. To Register call Kathy: 248 855 4444 or email MMTKathy@aol.com. You can also visit their website at http:// www.midwestmotorcycletraining.com/index.html.

C’mon, take the plunge and improve your riding. Maybe get your picture in Midwest Motorcyclist.

I wish one and all a happy and blessed Christmas and best wishes for 2017.

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Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Association Members 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

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

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

6

8. Kalamazoo

15

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 HOLESHOT HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 4741 E PICKARD, MT PLEASANT (989) 772-5513 www.candssportcenter.com

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December 2016

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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

Pre-Owned Motorcycles 2015 Indian® Chieftain®, 2004 Harley-Davidson® 2013 Harley-Davidson® FLTRX Indian Red/Ivory cream, Screamin EagleSoftail - Road Glide® Custom, Black 11,366 miles, $19,999 OUT Deuce, Yellow, 22,151 miles, Denim, 9,494 miles, $16,999 THE DOOR!!! $12,749 OUT THE DOOR OUT THE DOOR!!!

2011 Harley-Davidson FXS Blackline, Black, 3,254 miles, $11,249 OUT THE DOOR!!!

FEATURED MOTORCYCLE 2015 Indian® ScoutTM, Indian Red, 3,715 miles, $11,499 OUT THE DOOR!!!

Check out these latest additions to our Pre-owned Motorcycle list!!!

2011 Yamaha V Star Custom, Black, 3,065 miles, $3,999 OUT THE DOOR!!!

2015 Kawasaki Vulcan® 1700 Voyager® ABS, Black, 147 miles, $14,499 OUT THE DOOR!!!

2012 Triumph Bonneville T100, Two tone paint 4,690 miles, $7,249 OUT THE DOOR!!!

1998 Yamaha Royal Star Tour Deluxe, IBlack, 62,891 miles, $4,499 OUT THE DOOR!!!

2010 Kawasaki Vulcan® 900 Custom, Black, 23,968 miles, $5,249 OUT THE DOOR!!!

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

248.920.2000 • www.ridemotorcity.com

2009 Kawasaki 2002 Honda GL1800 Gold Vulcan® 1700 Wing, Yellow, Nomad, Black, 3,170 95,996 miles, miles, $7,499 OUT THE DOOR!!! $7,499 OUT THE DOOR!!!

2012 Honda Shadow Phantom, Black, 4,725 miles, $5,249 OUT THE DOOR!!!

2008 Suzuki Boulevard M50, Two tone paint 12,569 miles, $3,999 OUT THE DOOR!!!

2005 Suzuki V-Strom 1000, Black, 16,881 miles, $4,499 OUT THE DOOR!!!

2006 Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 Classic, Black, 16,054 miles, $5,999 OUT THE DOOR!!!

on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MotorCityMotorcycles