Midwest Motorcyclist,June 2015 issue by Midwest Motorcyclist

SAVE up to $2,080* BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids 5995 S Division Grand Rapids, MI 49548-5730 616-530-6900 www.bmwmcgr.com

* Offer is restricted to the purchase of new, unregistered 2015 BMW R 1200 GS models equipped with eligible packages through an authorized BMW Motorrad dealer. Units eligible under this program must be on site in showroom inventory. Models without the Standard Package (ZPS) or option strings, still qualify for Credit Off MSRP and not the Option Package (Retail Value). Credit amount is deducted from vehicle MSRP. Dealer participation required. Ask your salesperson for details. Offer can be combined with other deals except as prohibited. Savings cannot be used towards tax, title, licensing or destination charges. Offer ends June 30, 2015.

Great Values on Iconic Indian Motorcycles 2015 Indian® Chief® Classic with Hannigan Sidecar This beautiful 2015 Indian Chief Classic, in the two-tone Indian Red and Thunder Black color scheme, features quick release black leather saddlebags and windscreen and is powered by the spectacular 111ci Thunderstroke engine. Standard features include ABS Brakes, Cruise control, and Keyless ignition. The custom matching sidecar started out as a Hannigan unit but has been greatly enhanced by our team at Indian Motorcycles Motorcity. The sidecar features a disc brake with Spiegler quick release brake lines, Electronic Camber Control with a flush mounted control on the left side of bike for ease of access, Chrome front and rear bumpers and handrail, and a fully customized matching interior that is spectacular. Sidecar also features an adjustable seat with lap belt, several pockets for storage, a large fully lined trunk compartment, Powerlet Power outlet and RAM ball to power and mount devices for the sidecar passenger, and a rain cover for the cockpit. For ease of entry, the sidecar also has a side door and the windscreen lifts up. This rig is currently set up to allow the owner to remove the sidecar quickly and easily to use the Indian as a regular two wheeler.

$37,438 + taxes, license and registration 2014 Indian® Chief® Classic

2015 Indian® Chief® Vintage This beautiful 2015 Red/Cream Vintage has been modified to include the remote locking, quick release matching hardbags. Also features the saddlebag rail guards, rear engine bars, Pinnacle horn cover, and pinnacle seat bolt. $23,733 + taxes, license and registration

This beautiful 2014 Chief Classic has been upgraded with over $4500 in accessories and custom paint (Springfield Blue and Cream). $24,000 Out the door including all taxes and fees and will come with a 5 year Factory Warranty. *Current Indian incentives not applicable*

Out The Door Pricing on Demo Models

2014 Indian® Chief® Vintage Indian Motorcycle® Red

2014 Victory Vision® Tour Nuclear Sunset

2014 Victory Cross Country™ Tequila Gold With Flames

2,000+ miles, fantastic condition. Features include Handlebar Audio, Windscreen bag with concho, heel shifter, and quick release passenger backrest plus much more. 5 year warranty!! *Current Indian incentives not applicable*. $22,000 OUT THE DOOR

Includes 2 Year Factory Warranty! Pricing is OUT THE DOOR and includes all taxes and fees. This bike is a “Demo”. Former or Active Military, Police, or Fire members receive another $1000 off! $20,500 OUT THE DOOR

Includes 2 Year Factory Warranty! This bike is a “Demo” and includes stage one exhaust. Includes a quick release passenger backrest not pictured. Military, fire or police departments can take an additional $1,000 off! $20,500 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 TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MotorCityMotorcycles 3

Columns 5 6 10 15 18 20 cc media publications

This Month’s Contributors: Contributing Editors Patrick Armitage, Emily Flinkstrom, Pedro Gregorio, Jay Wilgus 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 1998-2015 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.

IN THIS ISSUE…..

To Our Readers Ask Dr. Cycholl by Patrick Armitage Live It Right Dream Ride: Gear Review, Part 2 by Jay Wilgus The Skinny On... Triple Therapy by Pedro Gregorio Motorcycling and Law: Issue of Government Seizing MC Trademarks and Patches by Dondi Vesprini Group Riding Do’s and Don’ts by Jason Waechter

Features, News & Reviews 8 9 13 14 21

Restored 1975 Yamaha TZ750 Factory Road Racer Runs! by Ray Peabody Test Ride: 2015 BMW K 1600 GTL by Ray Peabody Sportbike Track Girl Announces 2015 Ladies First Track Dates Wauseon Classic Flat Track Races Preview The 2015 Sandy Corley Memorial Run Preview

Resources 5 19 21

Advertiser Index Event Schedule Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Event Schedule

Large cover photo: Manuel Bergschwenger, American Road Shop Technician, test rides the 1975 Yamaha TZ750 Factory Road Racer in the parking lot after completion of a partial restoration. Photo by Ray Peabody. Left small cover photo: The 2015 BMW K 1600 GTL, sans panniers and top box, at rest during our recent test. Photo by Ray Peabody. Right small cover photo: The Live It Right Dream Riders, Emily Flinkstrom (left) and Jay Wilgus (right), hooting at each other across the equator while riding in South America. Photo by Jay Wilgus.

MOTORCYCLE TIRE & TUBE LIQUIDATION All in-stock tires & tubes sold at cost! After 37 years, we’re hanging it up and heading into retirement. Before we go, we have to sell all of our remaining inventory. If you want the best prices on motorcycle tires and/or tubes you’ll find anywhere this year, call us today for size availability and prices. Don’t wait! Our inventory is selling fast and won’t last long. You’ll be glad you did. 53379 Gratiot Avenue, Suite B Chesterfield, MI 48051 (586) 270-6595 www.motorcyclemikes.com

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

June 2015

12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 ABATE of Indiana ....................................5 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 A.B.C. Harley-Davidson ...............21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Battle Creek Harley-Davidson ......21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 BMW Motorcycles of Detroit................13, 16 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 BMW of Grand Rapids..........2, 8, 9, 14 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 BMW, SE Michigan..... .........5, 11, 17 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 C & S Harley-Davidson ...........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Capitol Harley-Davidson ..........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Classic MotorSports........,.........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Cycle Conservation Club ..........................18 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Diamond Gusset Jeans ...........................22 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Giant Loop........................................12 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Gildner’s Harley-Davidson ........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Gilmore Museum Vintage MC Show............19 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Grand Rapids H-D................. ...21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Great Lakes Dual Sporters ...................9 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Great Lakes Harley-Davidson........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Hamilton’s Harley-Davidson ....15, 21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Harley-Davidson dealers ..............21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Hot Rod Harley-Davidson .............21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Jason Waechter, The Motorcycle Lawyer..24 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Jerry B’s Cycle Works .......................12 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Kelley & Sons Trailers ...........................20 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Metro Triumph Riders............................7 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Motor City Underwriters ......................12 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Motorcity Motorcycles.................3, 6 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Motorcycle Mike’s..................................4 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Motorcycle Solutions, LLC......................12 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 MC Sport Touring Association..........13, 18 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Perry’s Harley-Davidson ..........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Ray C’s Harley-Davidson..........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Retail Warehouse .........................17, 20 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Richmond Cycle...................................8 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Rocky’s Outdoors.................................16, 24 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Sandy’s Harley-Davidson ...........21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Shiawassee Harley-Davidson ....21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Sport Bike Track Gear ............................ 10 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Sweet Trikes ...........................................12 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Tecumseh Harley-Davidson .....21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Town & Country H-D................21, 22, 23 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Triumph Detroit...........................7, 17 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Zip’s 45th Parallel H-D..............21, 22, 23

Advertiser Index

BE SEEN Wear Hi Viz Riding Gear

As the 2015 riding season ramps up, so does our editorial content. This month, in addition to an ever-expanding event schedule, we have a variety of articles from our talented writing team. The Skinny On… columnist, Pedro Gregorio, returns this month with his short story called Triple Therapy. Pedro owns two Triumph motorcycles powered by threecylinder engines, a Speed Triple and a new Tiger 800XC. If you’ve read any of his previous columns, you know that Pedro selects his motorcycles for what they do for him in terms of aesthetics and performance not to mention whether it generates passion within. This most current column reflects on a recent ride that helped him escape from some Sunday afternoon blues. Pedro is an excellent writer and this column is a reflection of that skill. The Live It Right Dream Ride team of Emily Flinkstrom and Jay Wilgus – currently on a break from their trip to Tierra del Fuego, Argentina in South America – reported last month on the solid performance some of the gear they’ve used on their adventure has provided. This month, Jay reviews gear that didn’t fully meet expectations and other gear that didn’t work well at all. You can’t find a better, more objective review of gear used daily over the course of many months in sometimes difficult situations. If you’re considering a purchase, you might want to consider how specific products worked for them before you buy. A well written (as usual), highly informative, must read article. Don’t miss it! We also reviewed the 2015 BMW K 1600 GTL for this issue. The big, technology-rich, luxurious BMW might not be the bike of choice for every rider but, if you’re considering

a long-distance tour in the not too distant future, it might be the right choice for you. Read our thoughts about this motorcycle in this issue. This month, we also follow up on a story we wrote several years ago about a 1975 Yamaha TZ750 Factory Road Racer barn find. American Road Shop owner Tim Beaubien bought this unique motorcycle despite the fact that it had been sitting for almost 40 years, was filthy, had parts missing and had been modified to ride legally on the street. After partial restoration, Tim invited us over for the post-restoration start up. You can learn more about this project and fuure plans for this bike in our story in these pages. After a hiatus, Dr. Cycholl returns this month. Dondi Vesprini reviews two cases where the U.S. government is attempting to take legal trademarks and patches / colors from two motorcycle clubs – one here in Michigan – and how that might affect all of us in the future. Jason Waechter shares some valuable ideas about group riding do’s and don’ts in his column this month. There’s much more in this issue, including our expansive event schedule. You can find multiple events every weekend throughout the summer so you won’t be bored unless you decide to be. Thank you for reading. We hope you enjoy this issue. Please patronize our sponsors. They pay the bills around here and enable us to continue publishing. Have fun. Ride safe. Watch for distracted drivers, small children and animals when you ride. See you on the road,

Spring Track Day • Saturday, June 1, 2015 • The day costs $175, which includes track time, class room instruction and lunch. All makes and models of bikes are welcome to attend our track events! Factory test rider Nate Kern will join us. To register, please call Audrey at (734) 453-0500

Pre-Owned Motorcycles 2014 BMW R1200GSA, OLIVE GREEN / BLACK 2014 BMW R1200GSA *DEMO*, Blue Matt / Black 2014 BMW R1200RT, EBONY / SILVER 2011 BMW R1200R, Black, 65,926 miles, Excellent condition, $7,990

2013 BMW S1000RR, RED/WHITE / BLACK 1997 BMW R1100RT Glacier Green/SILVER, 48,500 miles, Excellent condition, $3,490

2013 BMW F800GS, BLUE

$17,490 Sale Price: $12,490 $10,490 Sale Price: $18,490

2012 BMW K1600GTL , BLUE METALLIC / SILVER

Sale Price: $17,490

2011 BMW R1200R, Black

$7,990

2010 BMW F800ST, CHAMPAGNE

$7,990

2007 BMW K1200GT, CRYSTAL GREEN / SILVER 2013 BMW S 1000 RR Red/White/Black, 9,000 miles, Excellent condition, $12,490

Sale Price: $20,045

2012 BMW K1600GTL , MINERAL SILVER / SILVER

2008 BMW K1200LT, Black / Tan 2006 BMW K1200GT, METALLIC BLUE / SILVER, 19,600 miles, Excellent condition, $8,990

$17,490

2006 BMW K1200GT, METALLIC BLUE / SILVER 1997 BMW R1100RT, GLACIER GREEN / SILVER

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

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

Sale Price: $13,000 $8,490 Sale Price: $8,990 $3,490

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

Midwest Motorcyclist

Dear Dr. Cycholl,

ASK Dr. Cycholl

I have ridden for 13 years, the last 6 with my Wife as a passenger. I would like my Wife to become a rider herself. I will send her to an MSF beginner class. Do you have any advice?

Q&A Column For Your Questions Relating to Motorcycle Safety, Riding Techniques and Touring By Maurice “Moe” D. Cycholl

Thanks,

Dear Dr. Cycholl, I have read that you ride a GL1800 Honda Goldwing. I am considering stepping up to a touring bike. I am looking at the Harley Ultra Classic, The BMW GTL1600 and the GL1800. Why did you chose the ‘Wing over the others and what would you choose today given these choices? Thanks, Vince Rapp Dear Vince, Thanks for an excellent question. First, let me say all of these are great choices. You would likely not regret choosing any one of them. All are great riding, good looking machines. I have not ridden the BMW but those who have praise its engine and handling. The HD has classic style. The ‘Wing has a ultra smooth, powerful engine, great handling and near bullet proof reliability. The one thing that only the ‘Wing has - and the feature I no longer want to do without -is electric reverse. Never having to back up by pushing a bike that weighs about 900 lbs (before my Wife and I load it for a trip and get on) still seals the deal for the ‘Wing for me. I have also had years of trouble free performance from Goldwings. Choosing a motorcycle is a very personal decision. You may have compelling reasons for picking one over the others. I suggest you take each for a demo ride. It will clarify which you like the best. Thank you, Dr Cycholl

Cliff Snyder

Dear Cliff, The best advice I can offer you is to be sure that your Wife actually wants to ride, and is not doing this because you want her to. If she does this for you, not because she wants to ride, it is a bad idea. If she really wants to ride, a MSF Basic class is a great start. Don’t buy her a bike until after she passes the class. Do not attempt to teach her to ride at all prior to this class. Help her with questions during the class off times. Do not attend the class as a spectator. Accept the possibility that she may or may not pass the class. If she does not pass and does not want to repeat the class, support the decision and continue riding with her as a passenger. If she does pass and wishes to ride, get her a small used bike and realize she will be a beginner for a while. Support her and help her with any difficulties. Let her develop at her own pace. If she decides not to ride, that is OK, too. My wife is a great, enthusiastic passenger with no desire and likely no ability to ride herself. I enjoy having her as a passenger. Not everyone can or should ride themselves. Thank you,

Dr Cycholl

Dr. Maurice D. Cycholl is a world-renowned expert in Motorcycle Safety, Riding Techniques and Touring. In addition, while he is not a recognized expert in motorcycle mechanics, he does possess a fair degree of knowledge in the area of mechanical, and electrical systems found on many motorcycles. He welcomes your questions on these subjects. While you may submit questions on any subject, his advice on other subjects may, or may not be, as reliable. Please submit your questions via email to: askDrCycholl@ hotmail.com or via snail mail to: Dr. “Moe” D. Cycholl, c/o CC media, 709 Fall Street, Spring Lake, MI 49456

Pre-Owned Motorcycles 2011 Harley-Davidson® FLHX - Street Glide®, 13,658 miles, lots of extras, $17,999 plus tax & title

2007 Harley-Davidson VRSCAW - V-Rod, Black, Mileage: 12,791, $9,999 plus tax & title

2007 Harley-Davidson® FLTR Road Glide, 3,479 miles, well over 25K invested. Some highlights include: Chrome 21" front end with Custom wheels, rotors, and calipers. DayMaker LED lights. Electronically operated opening custom saddlebags. Diamond Cut Engine. Chrome everything! Custom Paint. You must see this one!

2007 HarleyDavidson® Ultra Classic, 70,827 miles, $9,999 plus tax & title

2009 Kawasaki Vulcan® 1700 Voyager®, Silver / Black, 28,522 miles, $8,999 plus tax & title

2008 Victory Vegas™ Low, Cherry red 2,880 miles, $8,499 plus tax & title

2010 Yamaha V Star Classic, Red, Only 307 miles, $4,499 plus tax & title

1940 Indian Chief,

Join us in the Motorcycle Corral at the 2015 Belle Isle Grand Prix on May 29-31

Green & Cream, Older restoration, High output Bonneville engine, 130 mph speedo, 18” Wheels, Excellent!, $40,000 plus tax &

title

$18,999 plus tax & title

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 6

on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MotorCityMotorcycles

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

June 2015

A Saleswoman’s Perspective by Andrea Chappell I was riding in the right lane on a threelane freeway. A couple cars were merging into my lane from a freeway entrance ramp on my right. There was a semi truck in the middle lane and two sedans going no more than 5 mph faster than the semi in the far left lane. A student-driver car in the merge lane was moving somewhat erratically and seemed unsure about merging with other traffic at expressway speeds, leaving me in a bit of a tight spot. When the semi truck’s right turn signal started blinking and the truck started moving into my lane, my heartbeat quickened. Adrenaline pumping, I had to avoid being squished and not being seen. I down shifted into fifth, twisted the throttle hard, and accelerated quickly through the closing gap between the semi truck and student driver. On my ride into work today, I was trying to think of ways to show people, non-motorcycle people or inactive riders, the joy I experience and the thrill I get out of riding motorcycles. I’ve tried with photos, with videos, with simply talking to people sharing my experiences. I don’t know whether these things effectively describe the feelings I get every day I ride. I think the best way would be to literally have someone else in my head to experience it exactly as I do. Therein lies the problem. Until I can discover how to get someone to share my conscious thoughts, I’m out of luck. The next best thing is to get people riding the bikes that I have fallen in love with. I just so happen to have an amazing job that allows me to do just that! Most people think sales is about

convincing someone to part with their hard earned cash. I strongly disagree. My job is about finding the perfect bike for each and everyone of my customers. Perfect for them at this very point in time, life, and financially. I want them excited for their new bike, excited for the trips they are planning, and excited for the bonding they will do with their motorcycles and friends. Most importantly, I want them to be sure of their decision. I am quite biased to the motorcycles I sell. I was literally raised on BMW’s. I remember, vividly, walking into my preschool with my motorcycle helmet. I did go away from motorcycles for a while (temporary distraction with horses from age 11 to 22) but have come back to two wheels. I have since learned more about all motorcycles - the good, the bad, and the ugly. That was when I realized why my father had opened a BMW dealership. These are the safest bikes out there with ABS, traction control, and the smartest computers I have ever seen in motorcycles. These BMW’s also have the longest

factory warranty of any manufacturer at three years and 36,000 miles! I have also learned how every single motorcycle BMW makes can last over 150,000 miles without any major repairs (if you have any doubt’s, I can refer you to several of our regular customers who have well over 100,000 miles on a single BMW). This leads us to my original point: riding them! Not only does BMW build some amazing bikes, but they build one for just about every style, size, and personality. Although buying a motorcycle is a big decision, and one I don’t think you should take lightly, I think I can help you find the right bike, at the right time for you. That is my favorite way to share my passion with others.

METRO TRIUMPH RIDERS in Association With TRIUMPH DETROIT

2015 Spring

u r n Up B

Come join the Metro Triumph Riders for an afternoon of fun, food and British motorcycles.

Saturday May 30 11:00am - 3:00pm I-275

M-14

SHELDON

TRIUMPH DETROIT - West 620 W. Ann Arbor Rd Plymouth, MI 48170 I-96

x ANN ARBOR RD

Detroit

Learn more at

www.triumphdetroit.com

www.metrotriumphriders.com TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

Restored 1975 Yamaha TZ750 Factory Road Racer Runs! by Ray Peabody before putting it into storage in this Fortunately, Tim had a garage. technician, Manuel Tim spent a couple weeks Bergschwenger, who had negotiating back and forth with the extensive experience with twoowner of the three bikes before stroke-powered motorcycles. finally reaching agreement. What Manuel’s Dad, “Quick” Karl, who he found when he got the TZ back raced motocross, flat track, ATVs to his shop was a motorcycle that and drag racing before eventually had been modified to make it legal racing as a pro aboard Yamaha to ride on the street. The previous TD-1 and TD-2C motorcycles. owner added a kick stand, cut a Manuel learned his love of racing hole in the fairing and installed a Tim adding fuel as Manuel and motorcycles from his Dad. sits astride the TZ. headlamp, and mounted a taillight Tim and Manuel began at the back of the rear cowl. The working on the TZ a couple years expansion chamber had rusted out and the tail pieces ago; Tim looking for the original equipment parts had broken off. The CDI no longer worked. The missing from the TZ and Manuel tearing the bike previous owner had sold off the radiator to a friend for down to evaluate the condition of every piece. Tim his ultralight aircraft. Both tires were bald and the found the OEM parts at a company in England. The brakes shot. On the upside, the owner had kept fresh only part he couldn’t find, the CDI box, he had oil in the crankcase rebuilt. Manuel found the engine internals to be in and turned the engine surprisingly good shape. He measured clearances over at least once a and tested compression. He found some minor rust year to keep it on a couple of the All Motorcycles, ATVs & Mini-Bikes! Manuel takes a brief ride spinning freely. Tim piston oil rings and around the parking lot. had to decide how on the connecting • Batteries • Tires • Brakes much work and rod pins. He • Accessories • Parts New / Used money he would put cleaned those up into the bike to get it with steel wool • Oil Changes and Lube in good enough shape and reassembled to sell. Eventually, he the engine. He Used Motorcycles, ATVs decided that he would rebuilt the and Scooters Wanted! replace the missing carburetors and $$ Top Dollar Paid $$ parts with original reinstalled them. Running / Not Running equipment parts and He installed the parts Tim purchased and replaced get the engine all of the fluids. They replaced the tires (not original running before equipment since the original tires are no longer deciding what to do available) and brakes. When all of the work was with the TZ. completed last month, they felt ready to start the bike. It’s fair to write that both men were concerned about starting the bike; Tim more so than Manuel. Tim was afraid that the engine might explode but, having thoroughly checked out the engine, Manuel was less worried about a problem. They decided to start the bike with a gas / oil mixture slightly more rich than necessary to help protect the engine. During the first start attempt, the TZ ran on only two cylinders. Manuel determined that two coil wires were crossed. Once uncrossed, the bike started easily but smoked because of the oil-rich fuel. The two men have since started the TZ several times and Manuel has even ridden the motorcycle around the parking lot. (See cover photo and the video of the event on the www.midwestmotorcyclist.com home page.) Tim has decided he has taken the project as far as he can and will sell it in the near future. It has been exciting seeing this bike restored from a near basket case to a running, ride-able motorcycle. of Grand Rapids • 5995 South Division, Grand Rapids, MI Stay tuned for news of the sale of this rare, vintage motorcycle. (616) 530-6900 • www.bmwmcgr.com

In a story titled “Barn Find” published in our July 2012 issue, we told you about a 1975 Yamaha TZ750 Factory Road Racer motorcycle found sitting in a barn for almost 40 years by one of our customers . A motorcyclist called Tim Beaubien, owner of American Road Shop, about two late-70s Kawasaki Z-1s he wanted to sell. While in the barn, Tim spotted the taillight of another motorcycle peeking out from under a tarp. That bike turned out to be the aforementioned TZ750. The TZ750 is a unique – some would say rare – race bike powered by a water-cooled, twostroke, four-cylinder engine. The TZ was only available to factory-sponsored race teams. Apparently, fewer than 1,000 TZ750s were imported to the U.S. The previous owner purchased the bike from a racer at Daytona in 1976. He modified it for street-legal use and rode it for only about a year

RICHMOND CY CLE CYCLE Repairs and Tune-Ups on Get Ready To Ride!

Pick-Up and Delivery Service

68271 Grand Trunk • (586)

BMW Motorcycles 8

727-3697

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

June 2015

Test Ride

2015 BMW K1600 GTL By Ray Peabody

The beginning of the riding season here in the Midwest is also the beginning of the test season. This year we decided to start with a test of the 2015 BMW K 1600 GTL. While my preferred ride is smaller with less bodywork, technology and weight, it’s always fun to see what else is available. I picked up the GTL at BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids on a cool but sunny spring morning. Andrea Kamp took care of the paperwork and reviewed the technology on the big BMW with me. She also set both the heated handgrips and saddle on low heat to start the ride. The GTL uses a keyless electronic FOB so the rider doesn’t use an actual key to start the motorcycle. Press a button in front of the handlebars to turn the bike on and then press the starter button (same as on every other e-start motorcycle). The sound emanating from the exhaust system is a mostly quiet whirring sound. Rev it up and the sound gets louder; similar to a Formula 1 car. I familiarized myself with all of the electronic controls one last time before launch. Andrea cautioned me not to operate the full menu of optional features – including the heated seat and grips – while riding. It’s too much of a distraction for someone not familiar with the system. However, changes to the Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) system could be made on the fly from the right handgrip. The rider changes the setting between “Rain,” “Road,” or “Dynamic” and pulls in the clutch lever once to complete the change. I used all three modes during the test ride but, since I never tested the limits of traction, I didn’t notice whether system ever activated. I spent a couple hours in the saddle. Sitting still, the 768-pound (wet, ready to ride) GTL feels like a big motorcycle, which it is. Fortunately, the bike is well balanced whether sitting at a stop light or cruising the two laners through the countryside. Honestly, the weight isn’t noticeable. Aside from the electronics, the engine is the most impressive feature on the GTL. The water-cooled, fuel-injected, six-cylinder engine pushes the motorcycle forward quickly and cruises effortlessly. I’m guessing a rider would have to break multiple laws in order to even get this engine breathing hard. For most of the test – even out on the freeway - rpms rarely exceeded the 2,500 to 3,000 range. Only when accelerating in an especially aggressive manner could I boost the rpms into the range above 5,000. That said, hang on tight when accelerating hard because the GTL launches! Snick, snick, snick through the smooth six-speed gearbox and you’re pushing past 80 mph (as indicated on both the analog and digital speedos) TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

headed toward a ton within seconds. Once the rider gets up into sixth gear, downshifting becomes mostly unnecessary. Allowing the bike to slow to 35 mph in sixth and then rolling on the throttle produces a smooth, quick acceleration with no sluggishness or complaint. Part of the route took me through the area near Yankee Springs and down to Kalamazoo. M-43, which cuts through that area, offers some nice curves – not exactly twisties but fun nonetheless – and smooth roads. Perfect for testing the GTL’s handling characteristics. With the Duolever central spring strut up front and Paralever suspension out back (Electronic Suspension Adjustment is optional), the GTL tracks precisely through curves. I was tentative through the first few curves I encountered. I didn’t want to crash and was wary of the suspension’s ability to keep the heavy bike stable and firm while riding fast through curves. I needn’t have worried. It never wallowed or dove no matter how hard I pressed through curves. While I wasn’t exactly dragging a knee, the more curves I rode, the more confidence I had in the GTL’s ability to handle them. The ABS standard,

partially integrated (think “linked”) twin disk front brakes and single disc rear brakes are great. But they should be. Any motorcycle today with brakes inadequate to effectively stop the motorcycle - no matter how big or fast - in a quick, controlled manner shouldn’t be available for sale. The GTL’s brakes performed as expected and

I’m happy for that. Out on the freeway for the return trip to the dealership, I set the cruise control, raised the electronically adjustable wind screen and relaxed. Traffic was light. The bike and I moved smoothly around slower vehicles. This kind of riding is precisely why the GTL was built – comfortable, even luxurious, long-distance travel. Back at the dealership, I considered my thoughts about the GTL. There’s much to like in this package. On big things like the engine, handling,

Continued on page 17

BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids • 5995 South Division, Grand Rapids, MI (616) 530-6900 • www.bmwmcgr.com 9

The Live It Right Dream Ride

Gear Review: Part 2 By Jay Wilgus If you read our column last month, you know what worked well on our journey from Ann Arbor to South America: our bikes, our tires, our Delorme tracking and communication device, and more. There’s plenty that didn’t work out so well though and still more we wish we would have done differently. What follows is a brief summary of the not-so-great gear we used and a list of things we would have done differently. WHAT DIDN’T WORK AS PLANNED The Helmet Communicators We understood before our trip began that we would be spending a lot of time in the saddle – near in distance, yet miles apart without an effective method to communicate with one another. To bridge the gap, we wanted a reliable helmet-to-helmet communication Boots up on the beach.

system that would allow us All systems “Go” on the to talk with one another throughout the day and enjoy each other’s company. After researching various options, including helmets with fully integrated communication systems, we ultimately purchased a pair of HBC 200 headsets from UClear. They got good reviews and we liked the boomlessmic technology that would allow us to raise and lower our modular helmets without obstruction. In addition, the U-Clear system was affordable in comparison to other add-on devices on the market. Unfortunately, our experience with the U-Clear system did not end as well as it started. Originally, we touted the U-Clear system as the best item we purchased for our trip. The sound quality was really good, the battery life was excellent, and the product itself was durable and easy to use. And then, after about 2.5 months of every day use, the speakers failed. The first to go was Emily’s left earpiece. A week later, after reporting the issue to U-Clear, it was her right. Failures in my headset soon followed with the speakers and the microphone. In southern Mexico and unable to easily return them, we put our faith in the folks at U-Clear to honor their warranty and send us a new system. That shipping task proved too difficult for them though (long story), so we ended up having them send two new sets to a friend in the US who would be visiting us in Nicaragua. Problem solved - one month and a couple thousand miles later. In short, the U-Clear system is terrific, so long as you don’t use it very much. If you do, anticipate issues with the speakers and/or microphone after several months of daily use. Wind Screen There’s a reason not many riders traverse the country on bikes without windscreens. The wind fatigue can be brutal. To address that issue on our DR 650’s, we bought a couple Cee Bailey’s Sport Deflectors and slapped them on before we left. Unfortunately, the Sport Deflector model wasn’t tall enough to direct the airflow over my head. Instead, it hit me around mouth level, causing me to tire more quickly than I would have liked. At 5’10" and using the stock seat height, I would have preferred something a bit taller, or at least adjustable. In retrospect, I think the Commuter model would have worked better for me. Emily faired a bit better in that department because she’s 5 inches shorter and she was using a seat that brought her rear-end down another inch. Sleeping Gear Knowing we would be doing

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

Baja coast.

a lot of camping in the U.S. and throughout Baja, we elected to bring a tent, sleeping bags, cooking gear, and related accoutrements. To enhance our comfort level while horizontal, we also decided to bring two lightweight inflatable Flash Insulated Air Sleeping Pads and a pair of Self-Inflating Travel Pillows - both of which were purchased from REI with their imprimatur on the products. Like our U-Clear headsets, the mattresses and the pillows worked great at first. But one of each developed slow leaks after approximately 45 nights, which left my head and tailside on the ground each morning. The leak in the mattress is probably attributable to a tiny thorn I once found under our tent, so that’s understandable enough. I have no idea what went wrong with the pillow though and I didn’t care deeply enough about it to submerge it in water and find the leak. I just know both products leak and I wish they had been a bit more durable. That’s it though. Only four items that disappointed in the slightest among the many we purchased and utilized. I guess all our product research paid off after all!

A lunch break in Bolivia.

WHAT WE WOULD DO DIFFERENTLY Despite our general happiness with most of the gear we purchased, there are still various things we would do differently if we could do it all over again. The following list highlights a few of those items. A Better Camera To save space, weight, and costs, we

avoided purchasing a new camera for our journey south. Instead, we used the old point-and-shoot we got as a wedding present three years prior. Although our Continued on page 17

June 2015

BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michiganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

9th Annual Spring Open House Saturday, May 30, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Demo rides â&#x20AC;˘ Gourmet lunch â&#x20AC;˘ Entertainment â&#x20AC;˘ One-day-only parts & accessory specials â&#x20AC;˘ Door prizes â&#x20AC;˘ Factory test rider Nate Kern introducing the 2015 S 1000 RR :PV BSF JOWJUFE UP FYQFSJFODF 4PVUIFBTU .JDIJHBOŃłT OFX EFTUJOBUJPO GPS #.8 .PUPSDZDMFT 8FŃłMM CF TFSWJOH MVODI GPS NJEEBZ BUUFOEFFT BOE PGGFSJOH POF EBZ POMZ TQFDJBMT PO B WBSJFUZ PG QBSUT BOE BDDFTTPSJFT 8F XJMM IBWF EFNP SJEFT BWBJMBCMF PO B OVNCFS PG PVS CJLFT GSPN BN QN čś&#x2018;STU DPNF čś&#x2018;STU TFSWFE 4P JG ZPVŃłSF MPPLJOH GPS TPNF OFX SJEJOH HFBS VTFGVM HBEHFUT PS KVTU IPQJOH UP TFF UIF OFX MJOF VQ QMFBTF TUPQ JO BOE WJTJU 'BDUPSZ UFTU SJEFS /BUF ,FSO XJMM CF PO IBOE UP QSFTFOU UIF 4 33

The 2016 R 1200 RS. Sport Touring is given a new face.

2016 BMW R 1200 RS Base MSRP: $14,950 Including ABS

5 Mile Rd

He lm

N Sheldon Rd

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

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Redefining your motorcycling lifestyleâ&#x20AC;? SM * For qualified buyers. Visit BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan for details. Always ride safely and wear proper protective gear. TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

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

Viet Nam Vet Owned & Operated

Honda VTX 1800 Honda Gold Wing

H-D Softail

H-D Sportster

3371 Whisper Ridge Drive, Lapeer, MI 810.357.2515

www.sweettrikes.com

MOTOR CITY UNDERWRITERS, INC. Motorcycle and Auto insurance for 50 Years! • • • • • • • •

Motorcycles Homeowners ATVs Personal Watercraft Motorhomes Snowmobiles Boats Serving Autos Michigan

Call or stop by our office for a free quote: 32743 Woodward Avenue, Royal Oak, MI 48073 (248) 549-4300

Toll free (800) 400-8564

residents only

Jerry B’s CYCLE WORKS Is the OEM part you’re looking for OBSOLETE?

Give us a try! We stock a large inventory of parts and accessories no longer in production by The Motor Company. Stop by our store or give us a call to find the OEM parts for your H-D project! * Order from us and get

10% OFF SPECIAL ORDERS from: Drag Specialties, Kuryakyn, Custom Chrome, Mustang Seats, Hot Topper Kits, Biker’s Choice, S&S and many more

* Sorry, no discounts on Genuine H-D stuff

* LARGE SELECTION of Cool Riding Glasses: Maxx Rider Hi-Def Global Vision Fitovers KD’s Transitionals Assorted Goggles for day & night riding

* BIKE BRIGHT in stock Spray, 1/2 gallon & 1 gallon

We have leather swat vests with pistol pockets in stock!

586.773.BIKE

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

Now on Facebook at Jerry Bs Cycle Works

Sportbike Track Girl Announces Ladies First Track Dates

Sportbike Track Girl is dedicated to promoting and involving women in motorcycle riding and racing through their Ladies First track days. As part of their innovative approach, Sportbike Track Girl pioneered the “Ladies Only” track day, where women of all abilities can expand their skills and extract maximum performance from their motorcycles in a safe and controlled environment. The Sportbike Track Girl staff will be out in force to make sure riders get all the help they need at Ladies First. Whether it’s help unloading a bike, answering a technical question, or tips on finding proper gear, the Sportbike Track Girl staff has riders covered. Not to mention, participants get the best on-track instruction in the business! For 2015, Sportbike Track Girl is hosting events at Grattan Raceway in Belding, Michigan on July 3rd and Talladega GP in Cullman, Alabama on September 7th. Amazing sponsors like Fox Powersports, Traverse Motors, and BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids, along with many other industry leaders, help make these events possible, unique and special! The day is filled full of riding, classroom instruction, informational seminars, raffles and much more! Riders can count on a day of lasting memories and friendships formed with groups of ladies who love motorcycles as much as they do! Don’t just take our word for it! Follow Sportbike Track Girl on Facebook and Instagram to get all the latest updates and see what people are saying about Ladies First!

Now in West Michigan

This club is like none other - no politics, no B.S. 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!

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.

Check us out on Facebook @ MSTAWestMichigan or send an e-mail to banjobart@aol.com for more information.

BMW Motorcycles of Detroit 34080 Van Dyke Ave Sterling Heights, MI, 48312 (586) 274-4000 www.bmwdetroit.com

Napoleon Harley-Davidson Wauseon National Classic Flat Track Motorcycle Race Friday - July 17, 2015 SHOWDOWN at SUNDOWN REMATCH at the 9TH ANNUAL WAUSEON NATIONAL! The third Friday in July is Race Day at the Wauseon National. Jay Springsteen will rematch George Roeder, and it will incorporate another rivalry from the past: Harley-Davidson vs Indian. Jay “Springer” Springsteen will be riding a 1954 HARLEY DAVIDSON KR750 prepared by Bernie Breece against George “Geo” Roeder riding a 1948 INDIAN CHIEF prepared by Kelley George. Three-time Grand National Champion “Springer” took the first round, but Geo Roeder has proved to be very potent aboard the “Chief,” winning every Hand Shift race in which he’s competed at the Davenport and Wauseon Classic Flat Track Races. This year’s Showdown at Sundown offers race fans a choice of their favorite rider and favorite bike brand. Everyone can cheer for a winner at the Fulton County Fairgrounds on Friday, July 17, 2015 in Wauseon, Ohio, during the Antique Motorcycle Club of America’s (AMCA) 33rd annual meet. Friday night’s 9th annual racing program will include classes of bikes that span the era of motorcycle racing starting with the origins of the sport: Board Track bikes (teens thru 1928), Handshift bikes (1936 thru 1951), Lightweight bikes (1948 thru 1966), Brakeless Foot Shift bikes (thru 1967), 1970’s Single Cylinder bikes, 1980’s Single Cylinder bikes, and Vintage Twins (thru 1983). Featured races are the Classic Flat Track National Championship Series, the Speedway Long Track National Championship, and the Showdown at Sundown exhibition match race between Springsteen and Roeder. AMCA’s 33rd Annual Wauseon National Meet - The theme of this year’s meet is the Barn Find Motorcycle. The huge swap meet has over 700 vendors for bikes and parts over 35 years old. Shop all day Friday, Saturday and until noon on Sunday at the 33rd annual meet organized by the Ohio Valley Chapter, Lake Erie Chapter, River Valley Chapter, Maumee Valley Chapter, and the Wolverine Chapter of the AMCA. Gates open to the public each day at 8 am. Saturday offers a Bike Parade, Adult and Children’s Field Games, Silent Auction, a delicious BBQ banquet with free live music for everyone. The AMCA motorcycle judging takes place Sunday. For general information go to www.wauseonnationalmeet.org Friday’s race schedule - the pit gate opens at 10 am, Hot Laps at 2:15 pm, Heat races 4:30 pm and Opening Ceremonies at 6:30 pm. The opening ceremonies will include a parade lap with the Motor Maids and the Invocation by Bill Goebel of the Flat Track Ministries. Race track announcer Bob Sigler of Ohio Outlaw Motorsports will be calling the action. Enjoy this local family friendly event at affordable prices. General grandstand admission is $20 for adults, kids ages 6-12 $5 and 5 and under are Free. General admission tickets go on sale at the Grandstands starting at noon on Friday. Event Location: Fulton County Fairgrounds, 8514 SR 108, Wauseon, OH

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

June 2015

Triple Therapy by Pedro Gregorio It was Easter Sunday. I hate Sundays. Have ever since my first job almost thirty years ago. Sunday afternoon comes around and I can feel my anxiety ratcheting up as I think about going to work the next day. Screw this. I jumped on my Triumph Speed Triple which I haven’t ridden in more than six months. At first, the foot pegs felt way too high compared to the new Tiger 800XC I took to the Smokies the previous month but it only took a mile for the Speed Triple to feel right. The shift lever is exactly where it needs to be. My legs fit the tank perfectly. The 1050cc triple shoots the bike forward at the merest whiff of throttle accompanied by the most beautiful exhaust sound I know. If my Tiger is a playful puppy, the Speed Triple is a British Bulldog that won’t let anything stand in its way. Before I even got to I-94, I was afraid for my license. Holy crap, this thing is fast. It’s time for my loop southwest of Ann Arbor. I-94 flashes by in a blur before I got off to head south on Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. A few miles later, I turned west onto Pleasant Lake Road, one of my favorites. The Speed Triple was in a high-rpm mood so I flirted with the 10,000 rpm redline. I had forgotten how absolutely intoxicating the feel and sound of this engine are above 6,000 rpm. The bike became part of me and I part of the bike. At the M-52 intersection, a church provided the perfect background for that therapeutic Easter Sunday. Many get what they need inside churches. I get what I need on the roads around them. M-52 south to Manchester had more traffic so I had to tighten the Speed Triple’s leash. No worries, Austin Road was coming. But a large sign informed me the bridge was out on eastbound Austin Road and there was a detour. Sure, no problem, life’s full of detours and they can often lead to bigger and better things. A mile down the road, the detour sign made me turn onto Clinton Road. I had never been on that stretch. It’s a little hilly and curvy and cuts through wooded sections. The Speed Triple

Midwest Motorcyclist

inhales deeply and let out a growl through the Arrow exhaust. Soon we arrived in Clinton and were routed onto US-12 back to Saline. US-12 is not a road for letting loose. It’s a road for contemplating what all this means. What this means is that I’m not on this planet to go to work at a job I don’t love. It means that I’m on this planet to ride and write about it. Part of me wants to tell my boss I quit, sell everything, and ride. The other part is too scared to do it. I bet I’m not the only rider who feels this way and I truly admire those who conquer their fear. Maybe I will too someday.

Continued from page 10 - Live It Right Dream Ride Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 served us fine for a while, it started producing a black spot on each photo before we reached Guatemala. After we got used to it, it was initially easy enough to hide the dark area in some aspect of the shot itself. That became more difficult when one black spot turned into two, then two into three or four. By the time we got to Nicaragua we were fairly desperate, so we were grateful when a friend offered to let us borrow his for the remainder of our trip. In hindsight, we should have bought a nicer, more durable camera to begin with - one capable of taking good quality pictures, while being able to withstand the bumps and bruises of a long-distance motorcycle trip. Something in the waterproof/ shockproof category sounds about right, except for the limited zoom range those products typically offer. Knowing what I know now, I might even be tempted to take a high quality smartphone with a durable case. These days, they take great pictures and they can be used for many other purposes, including navigation.

Handlebar Mount for iPhone Prior to the trip, I spent quite some time researching GPS and satellite navigation devices that could help us find our way to Tierra del Fuego. I had never owned one before though and was reluctant to add another gadget to our already complicated mess of electronics if it wasn’t really necessary. People had, after all, navigated to and through South America without one many times before so I saw no reason why we shouldn’t be able to do it - especially carrying two iPhones and a stack of paper maps. In the end, we decided to go without one and it was a great decision. Google Maps worked great most of the time because wifi is now so prevalent and Forever Maps filled in the gaps when we needed offline access and location tracking. Both are great and can easily be relied upon for a trip like ours. The only thing I wish we had purchased is a handlebar mount for my iPhone. We found the navigation function of Google Maps and Forever Maps to be most useful in busy cities, which are the exact places where you want to remain focused on the road with both hands on the controls. Instead, I was often one handed and/or glancing down to my crotch or tank bag for our next prompt. A handlebar mount would have resolved that issue quite nicely.

PRE-OWNED MOTORCYCLES 2013 BMW K 1600 GTL , Dark Graphite Metallic 2013 BMW K 1600 GTL, Dark Graphite Metallic 2009 BMW G 450 X, Black 2007 BMW K 1200 LT, Storm Grey Metallic 2001 BMW R 1100 SA Light, Black 1994 BMW R 1100 RS, Marrakesh Red

$18,500 $22,500 $4,900 $10,500 $6,300 $4,500

• BMW Motorcycles of Detroit

34080 Van Dyke Avenue Sterling Heights, MI (586) 274-4000 • www.bmwdetroit.com

More Digital Storage Space Another fairly agonizing pre-departure decision was whether or not we should bring a laptop. We ultimately answered in the negative and chose to bring a light, compact iPad mini, which worked absolutely great for us until we exceeded our storage limit. Turns out, tons of photo and video files will quickly eat up sixteen limited gigabytes of storage space. We know cloud storage would have been a partial solution, but we were leery of not having actual files. A simple, yet more expensive solution for us would have been to buy an iPad with greater storage capacity. That way we could have backed up to the device and to the cloud. Voila!

MOTORCYCLE CAMPING? In addition to a wide selection of both on- and off-road motorcycle gear, we also have compact, lightweight camping gear - everthing you need to go motorcycle camping. Stop by our store before your next trip! Jetboil Camp Stove

Eureka Apex 2 Tent Sleeps 2 Pack Size 5" x 24" Weight 5 lbs 11 oz

Eureka Curvy Low Rider Chair

Kiewa Sleeping Bag Weight 1 lb Stuff sack size 7.5" x 17"

Singlis ST Sleeping Pad Weight 1 lb 6 oz Pack Size 3” x 10”

Rocky’s Great Outdoors is your one-stop shop for all of your outdoor activities. Whether you’re motorcycling, camping, hiking, kayaking, fishing or hunting, come to our store first to check out our huge selection.

One Small E-Reader Before this trip, I never would have considered reading a book on my iPhone. Having done it a half dozen times now though, I no longer find it inconceivable. But I continue to find it unpleasant. Since books in English can be hard to come by south of the border (unless you’re into the leftovers found on hostel shelves), I wish we would have brought a simple e-reader like a Kindle or Nook. This would have allowed Emily to read on the iPad, while I read on something other than my beat

up iPhone 3. It also would have provided a huge library to choose from with the click of a button. As I write this, I find myself thinking the iPhone 6+ or a similar “phablet” would actually be wonderful on a trip like this. Camera, phone, GPS, tablet, e-reader, and more all rolled into one! If they could just get the Delorme functionality plugged in there, it would be the ultimate adventure motorcycling device. Apple? Delorme? Are you listening? Not Plastic Vacuum Bags When you’re going to live off your motorcycle for a year, you need an easy way to condense and organize various belongings inside whatever saddlebags you’ve chosen to use. For our journey, we used an assortment of lightweight nylon bags for various gadgets and gear and a small selection of plastic vacuum bags for our clothes. We had used them successfully in the past to condense the size of our clothing within a larger piece of luggage, but we had never used them on a trip of this length where they needed to be opened and closed every day. After two weeks south of the border, our folly was evident. The bags ripped, the zippers broke, and the vacuum function was completely lost. In hindsight, we should have used a durable compression sack, like that which holds our sleeping bags. Although not shaped for clothes as nicely as their plastic counterparts, their added durability would have been worth the minor inconvenience. Different Boots We knew our motocross style boots would be heavy and cumbersome before we began, but we couldn’t find anything else that would offer similar safety features in the terrain we would be riding. Along the way though, we saw a few riders wearing leather trials boots that looked like they fit the bill quite nicely. I haven’t tried any on yet, but from what I could tell admiring others’, I think a set of trials boots may be my next purchase for a long adventure ride. They’re durable, lighter weight, and offer greater walking comfort than the lead we lugged around. More Time Finally, we both wish we would have given ourselves more time. The fact is, you could easily spend a month in every country we visited and at least two months in the bigger countries like Mexico and Peru. As those who have been reading our column or blog know, we struggled with this for some time. In the end, we continue to think slower is better if you really want to experience what each country and culture has to offer. Well… that about wraps it up for our gear review. There are a few things we wouldn’t buy again and a bunch of things we’d do differently next time around. All in all though, we’re really happy with what we bought and utilized. For more information about our experience with the gear or to read more about our adventure, visit us online at www.liveitrightdreamride.com.

The Live It Right Dream Ride is sponsored in part by:

www.kindsnacks.com/

Rocky’s Great Outdoors G4014 South Saginaw Street, Burton, MI (810) 742-5420 www.motorcycleandoutdoors.com/ 16

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com/ www. motorcycleandoutdoors .com

www.shadyproducts.com/

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

June 2015

Continued from page 9 - 2015 BMW K 1600 GTL Test DTC, ESA, security, and braking, the bike excelled. On little things like heated grips, heated seat, cruise control, self canceling turn signals, wind protection including the body work and electronic windscreen, performance was equally awesome. There’s not much to dislike. My few complaints are mostly comfort related. The 29.5 inch saddle height was too low for me. Yes, I like putting both feet flat on the ground at a stop. Unfortunately, with my 34 inch inseam, the low saddle height also meant that my legs felt cramped with my feet on the foot pegs and my butt in the saddle. Fortunately, the seat is adjustable up to 32.7 inches with other accessories or equipment. That problem can be resolved. My other complaint is that the saddle was too soft for my skinny butt. It must be acknowledged that I’m not comfortable seated on almost any stock saddle. Some are definitely worse than others. After two hours in the GTL’s saddle had me yearning for a break. Again, I assume this situation is correctable with a different, more firm saddle. I enjoyed riding the K 1600 GTL. Despite it’s size and weight, it handles like a much lighter, sportier motorcycle. The engine is incredible but offers more capability than I will ever use. The transmission is smoother, less industrial than on earlier BMWs. The suspension has been effectively adapted to the big bike and provides sport riding capability and confidence while still soaking up the bumps, cracks, heaves and pot holes on our rough roads. I am a fan of the heated grips and saddle, cruise control, electronic windscreen and self -canceling turn indicators. This is a big motorcycle with plenty to offer almost any serious long-distance rider. Many thanks to Andrea Kamp, Blane Kamp and the rest of the crew at BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids for making the 2015 BMW K 1600 GTL available for this test. This model is available at all BMW motorcycle dealerships. MSRP: $23,995 (including ABS)

Saddle Bags 40 styles from

$135 to $195

Sissy Bar & Travel Bags 25 styles from

$75 to $185 Retail Warehouse (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

Riding Gear for Every Type of Riding Whether you ride a sportbike, an adventure tourer, a naked cruiser, a long distance touring motorcycle, we have the perfect riding gear from the top manufacturers.

When your gear has to be as serious as your riding, don’t settle for something less than the best. Stop by our store today to get the gear that will raise the quality of your ride.

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

Midwest Motorcyclist

Triumph Detroit West 620 W. Ann Arbor Road, Plymouth, MI (1/4 mile east of Main Street)

(734) 453-1800 www.triumphdetroit.com

Motorcycling & Law 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!

by Dondi Vesprini

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

â&#x20AC;˘ MAINTAINED TRAILS

In Michigan, contact: Gregg Mitchell mi_hsta@voyager.net

N O N - C O M P E T I T I O N

â&#x20AC;˘ ORGANIZED EVENTS â&#x20AC;˘ FAMILY FUN â&#x20AC;˘ ALL LEGAL

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Go Trail Riding!

No place to ride? Michigan is home to the largest organized network of off-road trails in the world - more than 3500 miles of marked, maintained ORV trails for the entire family to enjoy! Since 1968, The Cycle Conservation Club of Michigan has led the charge to assure continued access to public lands for motorized recreation by working closely with state and federal government. Membership in the CCC offers organized trail rides, a map CD of the entire trail system, a subscription to the Great Lakes TrailRider Magazine and a host of other member benefits! Call us today at 517-781-4805. The Cycle Conservation Club of Michigan PO Box 486 t $PMEXBUFS .* t XXX DZDMFDPOTFSWBUJPODMVC PSH

Issue of Government Seizing Motorcycle Trademarks & Patches As we roll into the month of June, it is not only the pavement under the wheels of motorcycles riding across our great State that is heating up. The battle between the government and at least two motorcycle clubs regarding the right of a motorcycle club to keep ownership of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trademarked logo and patch is a hotly contested fight that is currently underway. In 2008, multiple members of the Mongol Nation Motorcycle Club, LLC were indicted in California and subsequently pled guility to various criminal acts. As part of that criminal case, the government attempted to seize the Mongols patch, the logo on which had been previously trademarked by the then president of the club. The federal judge on the case ruled that the government had no right to seize the trademark or take their patch. However, the government effort to seize the Mongols trademark and take their patch did not end there. The government filed a second case in California and obtained a second indictment, only this time including the Mongol Nation Motorcycle Club as an entity as a Defendant. The government is again seeking forfeiture of the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trademarked logo, arguing that the club is a criminal organization and that the mark is used for intimidation. The Mongols have described their trademarked logo as being legally owned by one entity, but that it is held in trust for the membership who ultimately decide who is allowed to wear the logo on a patch. The Mongols have argued in opposition to the lawsuit that the government is overstepping its bounds with the lawsuit and are seeking to infringe on the club members freedom of speech, due process, right to associate and to indicate their association. The issue is still pending before the Court. The case breaks legal ground in terms of trademark law and it would come as no surprise if the issue ends up coming before the United States Supreme Court. In the meantime, the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attempt to seize a motorcycle clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trademarked logo and patch has appeared in at least one other known case, being a criminal racketeering case against multiple members of the Devils Diciples Motorcycle Club in Michigan. A jury found most of the defendants guilty of some form of criminal activity. As part of the criminal case the Government filed a

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

bill seeking the forfeiture of, among other items, the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trade mark and their â&#x20AC;&#x153;colorsâ&#x20AC;? including their vests. Many motorcycle clubs, riding clubs and other motorcycling groups are identified by the logo or patch their members wear on their backs. Many motorcycle clubs also trademark their logo so no other club or entity can use a similar patch, so as to keep the clubs identity uniquely theirs. Not only does the logo identify the club, but is an expression of the memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freedom of speech and an indication of their association with the club. Thus, the issue involved with the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seizure of the trademarked logo implicates not only criminal law and trademark law, but also implicates constitutional law. The outcome of the trademark issues in the above mentioned cases are worth keeping an eye on, as these are issues of first impression and could set a precedent regarding whether the government may seize a motorcycle clubs trademarked logo and, if so, when and under what circumstances. The cases are also interesting because they involve situations both where a club itself has been named as a defendant and where individual members of the club were named as a defendant. Any precedent set in either of these cases has the potential to affect any motorcyclist who wears a logo or patch on his/her back as part of his/her affiliation with a motorcycle club or organization. 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, 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 donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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!

June 2015

Events Events do change. Please call ahead.

Michigan May 23-24 Bubba’s Memorial Weekend Classic Bubba’s Tri City Cycle 804 S. Huron (M-13), Linwood, MI Info: (989) 893-5187 or bubba@bubbastricitycycle.com May 28-30 AutoMoto Film & Arts Festival Detroit will host a three-day celebration of motorcycle and automotive films, art and literature at The Fillmore Detroit, The Madison Theatre Building and Cinema Detroit from May 28-30. Presented by World Class Motoring, the festival will feature the multi-award winning motorcycle film WHY WE RIDE as well as a special screening of break out motorcycle passion piece GREASY HANDS PREACHERS. For more information on AutoMoto, visit www.amfilmfest.com. May 30 Spring Open House This is the BIG one. The best food and refreshments you’ll find at any Open House. Demo rides and entertainment. Road racer Nate Kern will be here. Join us in celebrating the 2015 riding season! BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan 39933 Ford Road, Canton, MI 734.981.1479; www.bmwmcsem.com May 30 Pentwater Bike & Trike Rally Motorcycle Show and Oceana County Ride Hancock Street between 1st & 2nd Streets Pentwater, MI (231) 869-4150 May 30 8th Annual Blessing of the Bikes Wounded Warrior Event Blessing at noon Hamilton Harley Davidson 68951 White School Rd Sturgis, MI 269-651-3424 www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com

dog at turn & steak and potato dinner afterProceeds benefit AMVETS Riders 1988 & numerous military/charitable events (231) 832-5041 (231) 388-0975 May 31 Blessed in HellBlessing of the Bikes Gates open at 10:30 a.m. Ride-in bike show, vendors,Live music Hell Creek Ranch 10866 Cedar Lake Road Pinckney, MI www.hellcreekranch.com June 1 Track Day at Grattan The day costs $175, which includes track time, class room instruction and lunch. All makes and models of bikes are welcome to attend our track events! Road racer Nate Kern will join us. BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan 39933 Ford Road, Canton, MI 734.981.1479 www.bmwmcsem.com or BMW Motorcycles of GR, 5995 South Division, Grand Rapids, MI (616) 530-6900 www.bmwmcgr.com June 5 2 Ride the World Presentation BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids 5995 S. Division Grand Rapids, MI 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Lisa and Simon Thomas have spent the last 12 years on their MW Motorcycles. They have visited 122 countries and driven nearly 370,000 miles. They’re here to show how it’s done. They can give you insights in gear, customs and other important information to make your trip a success. (616) 530-6900 June 6 Rolling Thunder – LST 393 D-Day Plus 71 The Mart Dock, 560 Mart Street Downtown Muskegon, MI 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. www.facebook.com/uskegondday June 7 15th Annual Ride for a Reason Ride Starts at Cabela’s-Dundee @ noon Ride Ends at Biker Bob’s H-D in Taylor $25 / person Proceeds benefit Penrickton Center for Blind Children Info 734.947.4647

May 30 Metro Triumph Riders & Triumph Detroit Present 2015 Spring Burn Up 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fun, Food & British Motorcycles Triumph Detroit 620 W. Ann Arbor Road Plymouth, MI www.metrotriumphriders.com

June 13 Triumph Detroit West Open House Fun, Food, British Motorcycles & Hot Rods Triumph Detroit 620 W. Ann Arbor Road Plymouth, MI

May 30 Masonic Motorcycle Run Southwest Michigan Masonic Center 3661 E. Napier Ave. Benton Harbor, MI Reg 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Ride begins 10:30 a.m. $15 / Rider; $5 / Passenger (269) 621-4403 May 30 AMVETS Riders 1988 Golf Tournament Spring Valley Golf Course Register by 9:30 a.m. 10 a.m. Shotgun Start $240 per team includes Entry, golf cart, hot TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

June 13 Flag Day Brownie Memorial Poker Run Three Oaks American Legion Post 204 Linden Street, Three Oaks, MI Reg. 11 a.m., First bike out 11 noon $25 / person; $35 / couple www.browniesmemorial.comJune

June 13 We Love Our Troops Annual Poker Ride Ithaca Fairgrounds 727 S. Pine River, Ithaca, MI $25 / bike pre-reg; $30 day of event Reg 11 a.m. to Noon Ride of 125 miles weloveourtroops@voyager.net www.weloveourtroops.net June 14 Vintage Motorcycle Show & Swap Meet Gilmore Car Museum Hickory Corners, MI www.gilmorecarmuseum.com June 19-21 Blaney Park Rendezvous Located at US-2 & M-77 23 miles east of Manistique & 68 miles west of the Mackinac Bridge $20 / day; $30 / weekend includes rustic camping Live music, rustic saloon, games, bike show, poker run For info, (906) 630-5224 or http:// www.blaneyparkrendezvous.com/ Also, check us out on Facebook June 19-21 6th Annual Salute to Veterans 2015 Thunder at the River Little River Casino Resort (231) 920-3379; (231) 362-2063 June 20 Bikers Finghting Blindness Estey Moose Lodge 3782 Cody Estey Road, Rhodes, MI Reg. 10:30 a.m. $15 / person (989) 233-7327

Info: www.abateonline.org/ 800-23-ABATE No one under 18 allowed. May 30 Riding for Rescue 2nd Annual Poker Run Pat’s Irish Pub 12634 State Road 23, Granger, IN $20 / rider; $10 / passenger Reg starts at 9 a.m. www.petrefuge.com petrefugeevents@gmail.com May 31 Miracle Ride for Riley Kids www.MiracleRide.net

June 7 KylePalooza Ride Hard Breathe Easy Piney Acres Frams 1115 East 1000 North, Fortville, IN Reg 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. $15 / rider; $5 / passenger All proceeds to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

June 27-28 Ride for Father Fred Classic Motor Sports 3939 S. Blue Star Highway Traverse City, MI $25 / rider; $15 / guest www.rideforfatherfred.com

Indiana May 29-31 ABATE Region 1 Spring Break Crumstown Conservation Club 59440 Crumstown Hwy North Liberty, IN Members $15; Non-members $20 Must be 21 Gates open noon Friday (574) 300-5410

June 20 The Ice Cream Run Starts at Ireland Road Wal-Mart Reg opens at 9 a.m. $20 / rider; $10 / Passenger www.icecream-run.com June 20 Rachel’s Ride Columbia City Eagles 1906 Columbia City, IN Sign in at 11 a.m.

June 7 Phi Delta Kappa 2nd Annual Ride for the Kids Brandt’s Harley-Davidson 1400 North Cass Street Wabash, IN Reg 9:30 a.m. First bike out 11 a.m. $25 / rider

June 13 2nd Annual Autistic & Children with Special Needs Benefit Ride Whiskey & Wine Saloon Monticello, IN Reg Noon; Kickstands up 1 p.m. $20 per bike 21 and older (574) 583-8200

June 13 3rd Annual Ride to Remember 60 / 40 Poker Run Ride begins and Ends at North Vernon Moose on Highway 3 $20 / bike (812) 371-3105

June 20 Lt. Michael Andry Memorial Ride Howard County Fairgrounds 610 East Payton Street Greentown, IN Reg 9:30 a.m. $15 riders or passengers (765) 210-5330 (765) 628-3155 June 27 1st Annual Bikers for Backpacks Benefit Ride Big Bear Cycles 213 S. Main Street, Columbia City, IN Reg 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Kickstands up at Noon Rider $10; $5 passenger vegas@sentrymen.org Deadeye@sentrymen.org

20th Annual

VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE SHOW & SWAP MEET Bikes 25 years old and older

May 30 Rockers Reunion Indianapolis, IN http://www.rockersreunionindy.com/ July 16-19 ABATE of Indiana’s 35th Annual Boogie Lawrence County Recreational Park 99 Moore Lane Springville, Indiana. Admission: $40 per person (you must be a member of a recognized state motorcyclists rights organization, and show proof, to attend.) Tent camping, motorcycle parking, and shower facilities included with admission. RV campground spots are limited in availability and can be purchased at store.abateonline.org beginning April 1. No glass bottles allowed in big top tent area. VISA/MasterCard accepted. No checks. Vendors: Contact Herb Archer (food vendors) 317-831-0681; Mike Strode (all other vendors) 765-482-6448. In

Rain or Shine!

Sunday

June 14, 2015 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

GILMORE CAR MUSEUM 6865 Hickory Rd, Hickory Corners, MI Midway between Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Lansing and Grand Rapids

GilmoreCarMuseum.org

269-671-5089 19

TRAILER SALES, RENTALS,

Group Riding Do’s and Don’ts

Ce le ou brati r2 ng ye 3rd ar!

by Jason Waechter, Esq.

(734) 783-6464

Summer is in full swing here in the Midwest and, now that the weather has improved, the motorcycling season is also well underway. After Motorcycle Awareness Month, I like to shift focus to highlight other big motorcycling events and activities. Every year, I get a few calls from riders who went down during a group ride, often because of something another motorcyclist in the group did (or didn’t do). I wanted to talk about group riding this month and give you some dos and don’ts to try to potentially make group riding more fun and maybe even safer for everyone. Speaking of safety, I just want to emphasize that safety has got to be the number one priority when it comes to group riding. Keeping the group together or keeping up with a group should never trump riding safely and within your ability.

12620 N. Telegraph Carleton, MI

When planning your group ride…

SERVICE & STORAGE FOR

1- and 2-place RENT motorcycle trailers for sale or rent Rentals starting at $30 a day!

FOR SALE

Aluminum 1 & 2 place trailers SPRING CLEARANCE!

skelley@kelleytrailers.com

Mon thru Fri 9 to 6 • Sat 9 to 3

DO think about what type of ride you want to

We sell a complete line of open & enclosed do: explore a route with no particular destination motorcycle trailers at affordable prices. in mind; head as a group to a predetermined

Gear Up for the 2015 Riding Season NEW PRODUCT Hi Viz Riding Jackets Black & Orange or Black & Green

Start at $8000 Pictures are examples and may not look exactly like actual product in store.

Packin’ Tee Concealment

T-Shirt

$4199 all sizes, with holster

CHAPS as low as

7500

HarleyDavidson

JEANS $

1850 Concealment

Vests as low as

$5000

Riding Jackets as low as $

10000 VESTS as low as

4000

Ride down and visit the LARGEST and MOST COMPLETE LEATHER SHOP in Southwest Michigan near the Indiana State line.

Retail Warehouse (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

location; or a ride with lots of stops or several destinations en route. Then, start planning. DON’T sign on for a ride that you think is beyond your ability, or plan a ride that is too challenging for the bikers you want to ride with. Keep the least experienced rider in mind when thinking about where to ride, where to stop, and how often to take a break. DO take plenty of breaks to rest, stretch, and stay hydrated. DON’T take risks while riding in a group. Use your signals and your mirrors. Be predictable. Be Motorcycle Aware. DO choose a riding formation that works for your group: Staggered formation puts rider #1 in the left-third of the lane; rider #2 sits in the rightthird of the lane about a second behind; the #3 rider follows in the left-third of the lane about one second

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

behind rider #2; and so on down the line. This formation can easily be changed to single-file if hazardous conditions arise. Single file formation has each rider in the group following two seconds or more behind the leader. Single file gives each rider more room to maneuver, especially through turns, curves, and ramps, and is good for areas with limited visibility. Side-by-side riding is generally not recommended, and in many states it is illegal. If you intend to ride side-by-side, check ahead of time to find out if it’s allowed in the state where you will be riding. DON’T pass other vehicles unless it is safe and legal to do so. DO review hand signals before starting a group ride. For a complete list of motorcycle hand signals, check here: http://goo.gl/ofrQMN. DON’T forget: the majority of motorcycle-vehicle crashes occur at intersections. We always hope that vehicle drivers will be Motorcycle Aware, but as riders we can’t trust that will always be the case. If possible, ensure that there are designated meetup spots for bikers who fall behind or have to wait for a light, so nobody feels pressure to ride too fast or take risks just to keep up. DO prepare for a group ride: fill your tank before meeting the group, pack rain gear and an emergency kit, charge your phone, let your emergency contact person know where you’re going, and check in with them when you get back. Go over the route plan ahead of time if possible, and speak up if you think more breaks or catch-ups should be added. DO enjoy it… there are no guarantees when it comes to Midwest weather, so every opportunity to ride counts. Obviously, I can’t cover every aspect of group riding in a single article, but I hope these tips will be useful and potentially help readers enjoy group riding this motorcycling season. We are currently looking for amazing group riding stories! If you have a story to share, or want to suggest other group-riding tips, send an email to writer@lawyerforlife.com, or find us on Facebook (facebook.com/TheMotorcycleLawyer) or Twitter (@cyclelawyer1). 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.

June 2015

The Sandy Corley Memorial Run... Michigan Making a Difference Since 1989 Harley-Davidson Dealer Events

Fremont, Michigan - In 1972, Sandy Corley opened a sporting goods and lawn/garden equipment business in Fremont, Michigan. In 1976, he became a Harley-Davidson dealer and renamed his business Sandy’s Harley-Davidson Sport Center. In 1989, our friend, Sandy, lost his battle with cancer. Shortly after his passing, and in his memory, Barb VanBogelen gathered a group of 56 bikers to ride 75 miles in the cold rain and sleet to begin what is known as the Sandy Corley Memorial Run. This non-profit event has become a tribute lasting well over 25 years, attended by thousands of bikers and nonbikers alike! Sandy’s core business principles, superior customer service and a familyfriendly atmosphere earned him his reputation and those principles are carried on by his family today. His family proudly continues to operate the business with Marilyn “Ma” Corley, the ever-proud matriarch, leading the pack. The Sandy Corley Memorial Run got its humble beginning at the Muskegon Motorcycle Club (MMC) grounds in Bridgeton, just south of Fremont. When we quickly outgrew the Bridgeton facility, the MMC graciously offered the AMAsanctioned National Hill Climb grounds at Mount Garfield in Muskegon. In 1995, we moved again to ValDu-Lakes in Mears, a facility designed as an entertainment venue. We started in the pavilion area outside of the Rhino Pit Bar with Molly Hatchet and John Kay & Steppenwolf but soon utilized Val-Du’s large main stage featuring bigger events and more famous bands bands such as .38 Special, Great White, Marshall Tucker Band, and Joe Walsh, to name a few. 2004 and 2005 found us back at the rustic MMC Bridgeton grounds, following the closing of Val-Du-Lakes. 2006 provided us the opportunity to partner with the Double JJ Ranch in Rothbury. Everyone enjoyed the new camping area, as well as the hotel facility nearby, a larger bike show area, and the close proximity to US-31 and the Lake Michigan shoreline. We haven’t looked back. The Double JJ continues to be our “home.” This year marks the 27th Annual

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

Sandy Corley Memorial Run, to be held on June 11, 12 and 13 at the Double JJ Ranch. The progression of the Run has been eventful and steady. We went from a small hometown run to one known across the country, with close to 15,000 in attendance for the three-day event. Our dedicated all-volunteer Cancer Run Board is comprised of the “Fremont HOG Chapter members and friends.” This hardworking group takes on all aspects of coordinating a weekend-long event full of concerts, scenic rides, field games, the world famous HOG Auction, and much more. From the first board meeting following the Run to the Benefit Bash in April to the Check Presentation Ride in August when we make the annual donation to the Johnson Famioy Cancer Care CEnter, our volunteers work to make the Sandy Corley Memorial Run one of the premier charitable motorcycle events in the Midwest. Throw in the generous donations of our sponsors, a few hundred volunteers the weekend of the Run, thousands of participants who also believe in our cause, and, when we’re done, we will have made a difference in the lives of many in West Michigan who are fighting cancer. The Sandy Corley Memorial Run continues to grow bigger each year. As of August 2014, our cumulative donation total has reached $1,747,742.83! Every household has been touched by cancer in some way. It is our goal to help patients in the fight against this disease by providing assistance, education, and cutting edge treatment at the Johnson Family Cancer Center at Mercy Health in Muskegon.

Together, we WILL make a difference! For more information, or sponsorship opportunties, visit www.sandycorley.com.

May 31 Central Michigan HOG presents Old School Poker Run Mt. Pleasant VFW 4841 E. Pickard, Mt. Pleasant, MI Reg 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. $15 per person, Prizes C & S Sports Center 4741 E Pickard St, Mt Pleasant, MI (989) 772-5513 May 31 Bikers for Boobies Ride Join this escorted ride to support the Karmanos Center in their fight against Breast Cancer. Ride is only $10 per person and includes free ride pin to 1st 150 registered. registration starts at 11 am, kickstands up at 12 noon. ABC Harley-Davidson 4405 Highland Road (M-59) Waterford, MI - (248) 674-3175 June 6 Steve Green Benefit Lunch Stop by and enjoy a cookout. We will be taking donations for former BCHD employee Steve Green’s cancer treatment. Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Road Battle Creek, MI - (269) 979-2233 June 6 D-Day Honor Ride Presented by Rolling Thunder- A 60 mile police escorted scenic ride - Registration 8:00am to 9:30am - $10 per person donation Hot Rod Harley-Davidson 149 Shoreline Drive, Muskegon, MI (231) 722-0000 June 6 Cool Bike, Hot Breakfast A FREE Biker breakfast buffeet 9 a.m. until gone! Plus a blood drive. Grand Rapids Harley-Davidson 2977 Corporate Grove Drive Hudsonville, MI 49426 (877) 596-6387 June 6 Women’s Run Join women riders from the area at one of our three dealerships for the annual women’s run. We will leave each dealership at 10:45am and end our ride at Town & Country. All three groups will join together at the first stop and ride as a group! Town & Country Harley-Davidson 18655 U.S. 12, CEment City, MI (517) 547-3333 June 6 Annual Open Houe Gildner’s Cycle Shop Harley-Davidson 2723 South M 76 West Branch, MI (989) 345-1330 June 6 Luau-Burger in Paradise Free food, live music. door prize, wort Hawaiian shirt contest ABC Harley-Davidson 4405 Highland Road (M-59) Waterford, MI - (248) 674-3175 June 6 Open House Don’t miss our annual open house! Free food, music, vendors, and more! Live music by Delilah DeWylde & the Lost Boys

Midwest Motorcyclist

Capitol Harley-Davidson 9550 Woodlane Dr., Dimondale, MI 517.646.2345 June 11-13 27th Annual Sandy Corley Memorial Run AT THE DOUBLE JJ RESORT, ROTHBURY, MI FOR INFO: Meridian Entertainment Group: 877.569.7767 • meridianconcerts.com or Sandy’s Harley-Davidson: 231.924.3020 June 13 Summer Open House Out BIGGET EVENT of the Year Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Road Battle Creek, MI - (269) 979-2233 June 13 Red, White & Blue Costume Contest Celebrate Flag Day by dressing in your best Red, White & Blue costume! Prize to top 3 Capitol Harley-Davidson 9550 Woodlane Dr., Dimondale, MI 517.646.2345 June 13 Annual Street Party Food! Fun! Friend! Great Lakes Harley-Davidson 3850 S. Huron Road, Bay City, MI (989) 686-0400 June 14 Harley Heroes Ride $20 donation includes gift, ride, lunch, entertainment. Proceeds go to Disabled American Vets ABC Harley-Davidson 4405 Highland Road (M-59) Waterford, MI - (248) 674-3175 June 20 Bacon & Bikes FREE Bacon, ride-in bike show, door pries ABC Harley-Davidson 4405 Highland Road (M-59) Waterford, MI - (248) 674-3175 June 26-28 11th Annual Rodeo Ray C’s Harley-Davidson 1491 S. Lapeer Rd. (I-69 & M-24) Lapeer, MI - (810) 664-9261 June 25-27 Sturgis Fest 2015 Bike Demo Trailer at Hamilton HD Sturgis Fest Bike Night downtown Sturgis, Big Caddy Daddy Band, Miller Lite Beer Tent 5 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Hamilton Harley Davidson 68951 White School Rd Sturgis MI - 269-651-3424 www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com June 28 Lapeer Chapter Porker Run Ray C’s Harley-Davidson 1491 S. Lapeer Rd. (I-69 & M-24) Lapeer, MI - (810) 664-9261 June 28 Sturgis Fest Freedom Run for Veterans Wounded Warrior Event Ride leaves at noon Hamilton Harley Davidson 68951 White School Rd Sturgis MI - 269-651-3424 www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com

H-D RAIN SUITS NOW WITH ENHANCED WATERPROOF AND BREATHABLE PERFORMANCE

New Rains Suits for Men and Women Backed by a One-Year Warranty

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

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

15 17

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

5 12

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

7 8

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

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

1 4

11. Mt. Pleasant

June 2015

PUT US TO THE TEST T H R O T T L E

F O R

B O T T L E

Ask your local dealer about our

Freedom Ride Tour starting June 15

MAY 1 - JUNE 15 速

Test ride any 2015 model at your local Michigan H-D Dealer and get a free travel water bottle courtesy of the Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Association. 速

While supplies last.

T? NOT A RIDER YE Riding

VISIT WWW.MHDDA.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. MUST COMPLETE TEST RIDE WAIVER FORM AND TEST RIDE ANY AVAILABLE HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLE AT PARTICIPATING MHDDA DEALER. LIMIT ONE BOTTLE PER CUSTOMER. WHILE SUPPLIES LAST.

Midwest Motorcyclist

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