Hatter's Mag by Thames Valley UK Chapter, 9746

HATTERS CHATTER

Winter issue 2013

NEWS

HOG Chapter No. 7479

BABES/HUNKS

Simply the Best !

BIKES

FUN

et ivvy Stre C o t s e k ocky’ ta

‘King Ra

COMMENT

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Rogues Line up!

New Committee Editor’s bit “198” Revs up his Pen for 2013 Director has his say Don “King” Bowie Treasurer’s report Secretary’s report Thank you to A Legend Mabel’s Bucket List Ladies of Harley Vivian Bales

4 6 8 1 2 3 1

‘R

By: David M Sherlock (Editor)

RATTY AND ROCKY take a deserved bow as they take a well earned rest, and retire to the ‘hard shoulder’ of committee’s highway. Two of the Hatters greatest leaders decide to take life a little slower, and try to enjoy taking the

tty’ is re -tiling.

‘Hatters Sons Take a Bow’ orders, and not give them. “Can Great leaders return to normal life?” Who knows? There are however, some exciting times ahead of us with our NEW LEADER, Don ‘KING’ Bowie. Watch this space! ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN FROM HERE ON!

Caution: This mag may contain adult humour!

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HATTERS . . . In with the New!

YOUR COMMITTEE Director:

Asst Director:

Don ‘King’ Bowie

Arthur Arrowsmith

Secretary:

Treasurer:

Activities Officer:

Head Road Capt.

Brian Mason

Paul Pinchard

Ross Fearn

Safety Officer: Gill Cox

Membership Officer: Photographer: Shauna Dixon Vacant

Webmaster: Garry Hutchinson

Ladies of Harley:

Historian:

Merchandising Officer:

Editor:

Jackie Paddison

John Paddison

Pete Wilson

David Sherlock

EDITOR’S BIT “198” Revs up his Pen for 2013

2013 RINGS IN WITH 2013 well underway, our Harleys have by now all been dusted down and polished to the threat of chrome erosion, due to friction of rubbing with excitement (Some dirty minds) . I have a good feeling this is going to be an exciting year for the Hatters Chapter. We have a new committee that are eager to get stuck in to their positions and impress.

Thanks Our thanks go out to the retiring officials who did a 1st class job of helping with the running of everyday matters. Now being involved myself with the Magazine in the capacity of Editor, I can fully appreciate the time and effort

ANOTHER HATTERS CHAPTER By: David M Sherlock (Editor)

that elected members put in to their roles. It’s not an easy task, and is time consuming. But lets be honest, that is all part of the fun. We have lots to look forward to in 2013, not least the trip to Normandy. If you still haven’t put your name down, don’t miss out on an amazing experience. One not to miss! Enjoy the forthcoming Ride Outs, and as always, remember to Ride Safe!

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HATTERS . . . Silence, All Rise!

Ladies and Gentlemen, Pray Silence Please . . .

THE NEXT CHAPTER Director’s Log but I would also welcome constructive suggestions from anyone with ideas for activities as well. OUR DIRECTOR, Don’t be afraid, you Lord Timperley, won’t be asked to run it DON ‘KING’ BOWIE or be responsible for it. I would just welcome APPY NEW new ideas. On that point YEAR to however we are still e v e r y o n e , short of an Activities Oflet’s hope this one ficer and Photographer.

doesn’t go down in ACTIVITIES the record books like They’re not onerous last year for all the tasks, you wouldn’t be asked to run things on wrong reasons! your own. The committee share the responsibilities of activities so no one person is doing eveI hope to bring some rything. fresh ideas for activities We have a great team and events to the Chapter, on the committee but as Thank you to all who came to the AGM and voting me in as Director.

Stair Gate 2013.1 Confused, sorry Confucius said “many hands make light work”. So don’t be shy if you think you can bring something to the Chapter and the committee then please speak up. I attended the HOG Directors Meeting on 19th January in snowy Stratford -u pon -Avon which was run by HOG UK Manager Marjorie Rae. Like previous Director’s meetings there was a lot of information given to us about what’s happening now and what’s in the pipeline. There are events that we can be involved in where even as one of the smaller chapters we could stand

HATTERS Our Leader speaks! to win prizes in the form of vouchers redeemable at H-D authorised dealers, so I hope we take up the challenges set. There are other opportunities for us to receive support from HOG in monetary terms if we achieve certain standards throughout the year.

agreements between HOG and various companies where HOG have negotiated benefits for their members. If you visit the following website you can get more idea of what’s on offer. www.hogeuropegallery.c o.uk Click on the benefits tab to see the latest offers available. HOG are working on other agree-

ACHIEVING These are by no means hard standards to achieve, in fact we are well on the way to achieving them at this early stage of the year and if we keep the focus during the year then the chapter will benefit. You may have noticed a bit of a recurring theme in the previous paragraph, being ‘what HOG give us for our money?’ Well the answer is quite a bit. As well as the support that the Chapter can receive each member of HOG could quite easily get their annual subscription back via national

DO G I B

ments which will be announced at a later date.

MEMBERSHIP This diatribe (nothing to do with Welsh Indians by the way) may appear like an advertorial for HOG membership, but over the years that I have been in the chapter, on a fairly regular basis the question gets asked,

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“what’s the point of HOG membership?” I hope over the coming months to answer that question while we are out having fun in the sun (only joking – while we’re having a brew at Barton watching the rain lash against the windows!!!!).

Chrome In the meantime, keep the battery topped up and the chrome polished; you never know there may be an opportunity in the next couple of months to blow the cobwebs away on a ride!! Don B Thanks Don. Certainly looks like exciting times ahead. —Ed.

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HATTERS The New Year begins!

Our first complete year was 2012 as an ‘Orphan’ Chapter, without a dealership to call home, and as a consequence, this has had an impact on our membership overall with a lack of new members to replace those who have moved to other dealerships and chapters. Those that remain are the hard core, and must be thanked and congratulated, for their support and good taste at remaining a Hatter. Another significant change in 2012, was the decision to relocate to Barton for starting ride outs and holding all our meetings. We will continue as an official, if ‘Orphan’ Chapter, with the main difference for us, being that we have a new warm meeting point that supplies a great breakfast and other meals, while providing a central base for meetings and banter, before riding out when the weather allows.

Difficult The 2013 AGM was well attended and although very cold there was no white stuff on the roads to make it difficult to attend. Keith, ‘Ratty’ Ratcliffe chaired the meeting to start with, before standing down due to pressure of work, and handing over to our new Direc-

Brian Mason: “This year is going to be our best ever.”

The New Year Begins tor, and long serving committee member, Don Bowie. Most of the previous year’s Committee stayed on, although there were a few positional changes, with Arthur Arrowsmith becoming Assistant Director, and Shauna Dixon taking over Membership Officer duty. John and Jackie Paddison remain as Historian & Ladies of Harley rep, respectively. Dave Sherlock is taking over as Editor, Ross Fearn as Head Road Captain and the Webmaster will be Gary Hutchinson. We still have a vacancy for Photographer, if

HATTERS Strong finances! anyone fancies helping out – It can be good fun, honestly. All of the Officers’ photos will soon be uploaded to the website along with contact details if you want to send them questions or messages of affection – we do need the odd word of encouragement now and again. Remember, it is your Committee, and if you have anything you want the Committee to consider, or have an idea that could bring benefits, or a good night out, please bring it to any Committee member’s attention. You could even present the idea yourself if you make prior arrangements with us.

Road Captain We will have the usual comprehensive list of ride outs, and events by Ladies of Harley to look forward to. This year I know that Head Road Captain Ross, will have some great ride out ideas, and there should be a good variety to choose from. We will also be having our Chapter Camp in June, and will also try to provide at least one bike night, that has been so popular in recent years, preferably on a ‘dry night’ unlike last year.

Membership

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‘

On the financial front, we finished the year with almost £4,200 in the bank.

’

membership supporting our raffles, merchandise, and events throughout the year. Membership dues were £1300 down but your support enabled us to subsidise the Chapter Camp with £940, the Safety Course for £400, and the Christmas Dance at a net £329. In addition we provided food and drink at the only bike night held at Paul Calderbank’s garage.

Brian, thank you for a very comprehensive report. Much appreciated. — Ed. Brian mentioned in his article, ‘There is still the Photographer’s position available to fill on the committee.’ If you are interested, have a chat with the previous member who filled the shoes of the vacant position last year.

On the financial front we finished the year with almost £4200 in the bank, some £380 up on last year.

You will, without doubt, get much enjoyment from taking up the post.

This was due in no small part to the

What have you got to lose?

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KING RATTY One hell of a ride!

KING RATTY

OBODY CAN DENY KEITH RATCLIFFE WORE THE CROWN AS DIRECTOR OF THE HATTERS WITH PRIDE. It has been one hell of a ride under the directorship of Keith. One we have all enjoyed and waited in anticipation of, ‘What next?’ He is without doubt, the party animal of any function. Without him, there is no party! Chapter meetings are a larf whenever he attends, his humour knows no bounds. Ratty, to his credit has held most positions in the Hatters, and can now relax with his feet up, with pint in hand. There must be a book in the wings, detailing his antics and life story! Now that would be an interesting read!

THANKS FOR THE RIDE !

HATTERS Enough said!

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Newsletter Title PINCHARD Simply the best !

TOP: Paul’s commanding officer pays tribute. RIGHT: MOD kindly supplied picture of Paul on active undercover duty.

HATTERS OUTGOING EDITOR, WE SALUTE YOU! ‘

OUR THANKS GO TO YOU PAUL, FOR SUCH A FANTASTIC MAG!

YOUR FOLLOWERS will miss that quirky sense of humour which you obviously have in abundance! Over the years, you have provided the Hatters with an amazing mag, that has amused and delighted your readers. I for one, appreciate all the effort that you have undoubtedly put into your Work of Art. Paul, put your feet up and enjoy the Hatters in comfort.

Sir, we salute you!

‘

PINCHARD Look back in pics!

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PAUL PINCHARD—A FEW SPECIAL MOMENTS IN PICTURES

I’m s to A tandin g tten tion !

PAUL:

ff ats o H : VE ABO

ul. u Pa o y to

ABO

Deep und ercover

VE: M

istak e to ask P Laun aul t dry! o

do t h

Paul is taking retirement from being the Editor, a little too far me thinks! Enjoy, you deserve it!

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HATTERS Mabel’s Bucket List !

AURA HULL is the lovely granddaughter of Mabel Oakley. Laura contacted the Hatters Chapter seeking our help in fulfilling one of her Nanas' ‘Bucket List’ wishes. Laura informed the Hatters that her Nana was a Yorkshire Lass,’ born in Halifax but moved over to Manchester where she met her husband Roy. At the time of meeting, they both worked at a factory in Blackley Village.

Impress Roy chased Mabel for quite a while until she finally gave in. She would giggle, recollecting her account of events, telling Laura, “Your

Left: Mabel relaxing with a glass of bubbly. Right: Mabel and Roy on their wedding day.

Hot meals were never a regular ‘ occurrence. ’ Gramps would try to impress me playing football in his steel toe-cap boots,” and how he followed her around the fair with a bunch of flowers. Laura recollects that her Nana was from a countryside family, and her father was a serving General in India. Nana told me how she loved to dance, and liked nice

HATTERS Both shared so much

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things, while Gramps was from a tough background where a regular hot meal was not often on the dining table, and he was grateful for whatever was provided Mabel wasn’t used to chaps like Roy due to her background, and the same was true of Roy, hence why he was relentless in his chase.

Telegram Between them, they managed to clock up 61 happy years of marriage receiving a telegram from the Queen which impressed Mabel. They have 5 children, 7 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Wow! Laura and Mabel would Top: Mabel and Roy in wedding car have lots of phone calls to Above: Laura and Mabel each other, and would visit Nana twice a week. They both shared so much during their little chats, one item was Mabel’s secret desire to ride on the back of a Harley-Davidson, not too fast mind. Laura thinks her Nana had a desire to live the life she never got the chance to see, being a young mother struggling to bring up five children. Laura tried to find out how to arrange a ride for Mabel’s 80 birthday, but never managed to. So that’s how she came to arranging the funeral escort with the Hatters. When Laura told her family, they thought she was joking, because none of them knew of her wish except Laura and her Mother. The driver of the Hearse was so moved by the arrangements, he had to congratulate Laura on such organised planning. Don, Malc and myself lead the funeral Cortège, what a send off.

Mabel will be up in Heaven riding her Harley across the skies. What a Gal!

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HATTERS 2012 DVD on Sale!

2012 IN PICTURES BUY THE DVD NOW!

ONL Y ÂŁ5

PURCHASE YOUR COPY NOW!

A FANTASTIC BUY! Contact:

photographer@hatterschapter.co.uk

This is without doubt one of the best buys you could make. Ross has put a lot of work & effort into the making of this Fantastic DVD. Support your club, and buy one today!

HATTERS And I love . . . ?

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I love motorbikes, and I love riding. Supplied by John Paddison (Historian) LIKE A LOT OF YOU, what first drew me to bikes was not just the experience of riding, but the feeling that I'd become part of a community - a brotherhood, really. It's great on a spring morning when you're riding along, that someone coming the other way on his bike is feeling the same as you, glad to be alive and sharing the road with a kindred spirit. So yes, we raise a hand or nod knowing that we share a common interest; biking. I always give a nod or a wave to a fellow biker coming the other way. Except Gold Wing riders. God, I hate them. Two wheeled couches. Matching luggage and everything but the kitchen sink â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but that might be in the little trailer that they pull around behind them. They never wave back 'cos they don't have a switch for it. So I don't wave to them. Ever. And BMW riders. I don't wave to them either. They think they're so great, sitting to attention, with their 180 degree horizontally opposed German engines feeling so bloody superior. You know that they're thinking about the glory days don't you? - when they didn't have to stop at halt like power rangers with sparky knee sliders. 'If I signs, traffic lights, or even borders, so I never dress like a World Superbike racer, I can ride wave to them. like one.' Wrong. They don't deserve a wave. Ducati riders - I don't wave at them either. Why Yamahas. Started off by making pianos. Their don't they spend a little more money on their logo is 3 tuning forks. No history whatsoever, mongrel bikes? "You can have it in any colour as just another clone bike ridden by another clone long as it's red." Aren't you cool! Like they even biker. So I don't wave or nod to them. Ever. know what a Desmo-whatever engine is, anyway. It's not a good idea to wave to learners. Before Riding a Ducati does not make you Troy Bayliss. you know it, they're waving back. Then they do If they're that good why do they use Japanese it on their test and that's an automatic fail. So I switchgear? I never, ever wave at those guys. do learners a favour by not waving to them. And then there's Harley guys. I hate Harley guys. When they pass me on the road, I don't Suzuki riders aren't much better, which is why I wave. With their little tassel handlebars and the never wave at them, either. They always have studded luggage and the half helmets - God, those race replica helmets protecting their peanut they drive me crazy. You know that it's really an sized brains. And matching one piece leathers accountant having a mid-life crisis, so he's poswith enough crotch padding to fill a duvet. Grow ing as a biker. The only people worse than some real ones for God's sake. That's why I don't Harley riders are those cheapskates that have wave to Suzuki riders. bought a Harley wannabe, like a Yamaha ViaAnd don't get me started on Kawasaki riders. gra. Never was a typing error so apt. Ninjas? What are you, twelve years old? Team So that's about it. I love the camaraderie that Green my ass. I never wave at Kawasaki riders. biking brings, I love my fellow bikers and think Honda race lookalikes. I never acknowledge of them all as friends I haven't met yet. them at all. Their Fireblades and Blackbirds are Thanks John. Made me giggle--Ed all clad in Tupperware and the riders all dress

And then there's Harley guys

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get me started

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HATTERS The results are in!

GILLIAN HAS THE RESULTS Hatters Chapter Ride-out Survey Results You may remember that recently we sent out a short survey to try and understand what it is that members want from Chapter ride-outs.

Gillian: Results are in

The survey was an electronic survey which was undertaken using Survey Monkey. It was sent to all Hatters members. In total 43 members completed the survey. __________________________________________________________ Question 1 This was simply a question asking the respondents name. This was deliberately left optional as we felt some members might give a more frank response if they could do this anonymously. Who are you? Name? Prefer to remain anonymous? 91 % of the respondents chose to leave their name. Those who chose not to didn’t express any extreme views, show any disproportionate dissatisfaction with anything – they simply preferred to answer anonymously. __________________________________________________________ Question 2 We were looking to find out what people value from being part of the Hatters and HOG with this question. What do you value the most from being a member of the Hatters Chapter and HOG ? (choose top 3)

 Organised ride-outs  Hatters only events e.g. Christmas Party, Chapter Camp  Discounts at the dealerships  Attending Rallies as part of a Chapter, riding down and staying together  Access to organised events such as Advanced Rider Training, First Aid Training, Off Road Days etc

 Chapter meetings / information service re events, rallies etc Ladies of Harley / Social evenings

HATTERS Opinion Poll!

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What do you value most from being a member of the Hatters Chapter and HOG 30% 24%

25%

23%

20%

19%

17%

15%

10%

5% 0% Organised rideouts

Hatters only events eg Christmas Party, Chapter Camp

Dealership discounts

Attending Access to Chapter Ladies of rallies as part organised meetings / Harley / of a Chapter, events such Information Social Events riding down as Advanced service re and staying Rider Training, events, rallies together First Aid etc Training, Off Road Days etc

The responses to this question were predictable with interest across all headings and the most interest being in ride-outs, attending rallies and Chapter meetings. Respondents were limited to their top 3 answers but probably we all value all of the activities but with the top 3 being our favourites. __________________________________________________________ Question 3 This year we have been running ride-outs every two weeks (weather permitting etc) but we wanted to see if this is what members wanted. How often do you want to go for a ride-out How often do you want to go for a rideout 40% 34%

35% 30% 25% 20%

21%

19%

17%

15% 9%

10% 5% 0% Once a week

Once every two weeks

Once every three weeks

Once a month

Other (please specify)

It seems that a ride-out every two weeks is the most popular option so it probably makes sense to continue on this basis. We may need to think about a mechanism for organising impromptu rideouts for those who want to ride more frequently or when we wake up on either a Saturday or Sunday and it is a perfect day for a ride-out but there isn’t one organised. This could be done through the Chapter website or through Facebook – This is something for the Committee to think about. Other responses included:-



As often as possible



Whenever I am available



When the weather forecast is good

Continued overleaf

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HATTERS Saturday or Sunday?



Finding time at all seems very difficult for me



Very rarely due to shift work



Depends on the weather

Pick and choose depending on venues Question 4 We wanted to check that Sunday was still the preferred day for ride-outs. What days would you like to do ride-outs? Saturdays Sundays

Which day would you like to do rideouts 100% 90%

84%

80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20%

16%

10% 0% Saturdays

Sundays

Sundays is the best day for 84% of the Chapter members so I think it makes sense to stick with Sundays as the main day for ride-outs but the Road Captains could think about putting on a few Saturday ride-outs next year. __________________________________________________________ Question 5 We wanted to check whether there was a preferred length of ride-outs and start time. What times would suit you best for ride-outs – longer days mean we can travel further – shorter times mean more local ride-outs? Full day ….…………………9.00am to 5.00pm Mornings …………………...9.00am to 1.00pm

HATTERS Time for Ride-outs?

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Afternoons ………………….1.00pm to 4.00pm Long afternoon……………..12.00pm to 5.00pm Middle of the day …………..10.00am to 3.00pm Longer day later start ……...11.00am to 4.00pm Longer day even later start...12.00am to 5.00pm Other – please suggest What is the best time for rideouts 30% 24%

25% 20%

20%

16% 15%

13% 9%

10%

7% 5%

0% 9.00am to 5.00pm

9.00am to 1.00pm

1.00pm to 4.00pm

12.00pm to 5.00pm

10.00am to 3.00pm

11.00am to 4.00pm

12.00am to 5.00pm

Other

The results were across the board with a slight preference for 11.00am to 4.00pm, closely followed by 10.00am to 3.00pm. Both of these indicated that a ride-out time of 5 hours seems to be the preferred length for 44% of the respondents. 16% had other suggestions – mainly stating a preference for start and end times on the ½ hour instead of the hour !!! __________________________________________________________ Question 6 This question was to ascertain where people would like to go on ride-outs. What is your preference for ride-outs? Visits to specific places of interest e.g. museum, bike show, castle, fetes etc – there may be entrance fees for these Interesting riding maybe stopping for a quick lunch in a café More technically challenging rides – may not be suitable for all riders Social rides – e.g. short ride to a picnic venue, pub lunch etc Mystery rides

Continued overleaf

HATTERS What do you prefer?

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What sort of rideouts do you prefer 40% 35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0%

35% 23% 19% 10%

Visits to specific Longer rides More technically Social rides - eg places of maybe stopping challenging shortish ride to interest eg for a quick cafe riding rides picnic venue, museum, bike lunch - more may not be pub lunch etc show, castle, riding less stops suitable for all fetes etc. There riders may be a charge for these events

Mystery rides

Other

Question 7 Second man drop off is the HOG preferred method for organising ride-outs but we werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sure whether members liked to get involved in second man drop off. Do you prefer? Marshalled rides Second man drop off â&#x20AC;&#x201C; (This requires all riders to participate in marking junctions and not just Marshalls) Do you prefer Marshalled rideouts or Second man drop off 60%

55%

50%

45%

40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Marshalled rides

Second man drop off

We had thought that members didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really like second man drop off and that they preferred marshalled rides. The results were pretty evenly split with a slight preference for marshalled rides. The Road Captains will need to consider this in the planning for next year.

Question 8 A lot of members attend rallies but these involve more than one night away. We wanted to see if members would be interested in a one night away ride-out.

HATTERS Let have a stayover!

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Are you interested in riding somewhere on a Saturday, staying overnight and returning on a Sunday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this would facilitate longer rides combined with a social evening? Yes No Would you be interested in riding somewhere on a Saturday, staying overnight and returning on a Sunday - facilitating a longer ride 90%

83%

80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 17%

20% 10% 0% Yes

There seemed to be huge interest in this with 84% of respondents expressing an interest in this. Again something for the Activities Officer and Road Captains top consider. _________________________________________________________ Question 9 This question was included to remind people that they ride at their own risk when riding with the Hatters Are you aware that you ride at your own risk? Yes No 95% of respondents were aware of this â&#x20AC;&#x201C; however 5% (2 respondents) seemed to think that someone else was responsible for them when they are riding their motorbike with the Hatters !!! Are you aware that when participating in a Hatters rideout that you ride at your own risk 120% 100%

95%

80% 60% 40% 20% 5% 0% Yes

Continued overleaf

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HATTERS Members have a say!

Question 10 This question was to give Chapter members the opportunity to make suggestions or leave any comments. Do you have any other comments that you would like to make or any suggestions for ride-outs 35% of respondents (15 people) chose to make a suggestion and these are included below as they were written in the survey:-

HATTERS MEMBERS HAVE THEIR SAY! I live a long way north of Manchester. Sadly not been on any ride-outs or meetings. Since the demise of the dealership there has been a distinct lack of interest in ride-outs. It more often than not falls to Ross to organise most of them ( He does a damn fine job) let’s hope the new venue stirs up some more interest from the “absentee Hatters.” To be able to have a contact – mobile – of at least two organisers for the ride, given out with prior to the ride. Last minute stuff. Ride-out calendar published January and adhered to as much as possible. Ride-out hotline regularly updated Rather than stick to specific weekends for ride-outs, the weather forecast should be taken into account. For instance if the weather is good move the ride-out to the good day and inform everyone A.S.A.P. If the website is kept up to speed it might encourage more people to attend. I like other riders, have to work and can’t attend all ride-outs, so would like the opportunity of choosing another day. I don’t like riding in a group unless there is some point i.e. charity rides or demo’s. I ride a bike for the freedom of it. I like to meet up at places where we can socialise. Maybe we could try clay shooting, go-carting, steam fairs, classic car and bike shows, then some could go in a convoy and the anti-social buggers like me can just show up as it suits. Ride leaders should keep a good pace and not too slow Shorter rides, longer stops, one night overnight rides, European rallies Do not like marshals riding past to get to the front it’s just not safe. Also 2 nd man drop off on exits to roundabouts is just not safe as well. If we had marshals at every 5 or 6 bikes ALL knowing where we were going it would be much safer. If we had to stop at lights or roundabouts then the closest Marshall would just take the lead. Easy really. Coastal rides / seaside resorts & rides to popular bike meet places e.g. cafes, pubs etc where mixture of bikers meet. All ride-outs mentioned are terrific, and it’s good to have variety. Marshalled and un-marshalled rides are appealing. All ride-outs are always well planned and good fun. Ross seems to have great ideas for ride-outs and plans his routes well! Last ride-out I went on it was hard to keep up with the Road Captain. I did mention this and was told that most members like to go fast so as not to spoil it for them we decided not to go on ride-outs anymore. Llandudno / Conwy / Betws-y-Coed Generally the ride-outs are well organised and to places of interest. The main issue is the lack of consistent communication about the ride-out. I am happy to suggest places and so a little research, but it is up to the Road Captains team to make the final choice about whether a place or attraction would be suitable.

HATTERS Hatter-Tize-Ments!

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Chopper Dave FROM SERVICE TO FULL CUSTOMISING DISCOUNT FOR HATTERS MEMBERS Tel: 0161 285 0395 Mobile: 07943 84067

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HATTERS Coming SOON ! FANTASTIC SAVINGS OFFERED TO HATTERS MEMBERS

Coming to a Chapter meeting near you SOON! Our glorious leader has asked the Eurocamp guy to come and carry out a presentation at a Chapter meeting.

HATTERS All across Europe!

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HATTERS Pinchard Returns !

HOLD PA GE ONE!

EXCLUSIVE ‘

HATTERS Hatter-Tize-Ments!

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AMANDA’S Is The Place to Eat when on the Go! NT

OU S C S ER DI FOR B EM t for M e RS to me E TT lace s! HA reat p e-Out

% 0 1

Rid

TASTY FOOD AT REASONABLE PRICES!

ALL PROCEEDS FROM THE SITE RENTAL GOES TO GREAT LOCAL CAUSES WE ARE SITED IN STOCKPORT ON THE LARGE CAR PARK. Georges Road, SK4 1DN Stockport

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HATTERS Sudoku

RATTY’S SUDOKU CHALLENGE

HATTERS WordSearch!

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Lakes of the World BAIKAL

TAKA

BURIGI

TITICACA

EDWARD

TUMBA

KABAKA

WAMALA

KYOGA

TAAL

MONDSEE

FITRI

QINGHAI WANAPITEI IZNIK

CAN YOU FIND THE HIDDEN LISTED OBJECTS?

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The last person burned at the stake. Phoebe Harrius was convicted of coining false money, a crime of high treason at that time, and was executed by being burned at the stake in front of Newgate Prison in England, in 1785

HATTERS Trivia! Last US pirate hanging. The last person hanged in the US for being a pirate was Capt. Nathaniel Gordon, in New York City on March 8, 1862. Gordon had been smuggling slaves into the US.

Elvis Presley. The last song that Elvis ever performed publicly was ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water,’ at his final concert in Indianapolis in June, 1977.

HATTERS MAG - IT’S YOUR PAPER “WELL G U YS AND GALS,” this is my first issue editing the world famous “Hatters Magazine.” I do hope it will be to your liking? The previous Editor (Rocky Pinchard) requested that everyone digs deep into their memory banks and puts pen to paper to give him a fighting chance

to provide you with a fun and exciting read. I’m asking the same, please let me have your thoughts, stories and pictures.

Author For the “technical” budding author, you can e-mail me your articles to: editor@hatterschapter.co .uk or for the less technical, the “Old fash-

ioned” pen to paper would be just as good. Don’t worry about spelling, punctuation etc, my wife will check everything… Ooops! No matter how small your stories are, they will make interesting reading. It’s always great to see your efforts in print. —Ed

HATTERS Ladies of Harley!

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LADIES OF HARLEY SECT ION

The "Enthusiast Girl" THE "ENTHUSIAST GIRL" was a young, female rider who appeared on the cover of The Harley-Davidson Enthusiast magazine in May and November 1929. She toured the country on her Harley-Davidson motorcycle following her cover shot. (By the way, The Enthusiast is still published today.) Harley-Davidson will always be grateful to her for the goodwill she spread on her crosscountry motorcycle trip, a trip that would make her one of the first great women riders. Bales quickly taught herself to ride in spite of the fact that she was Continued on page 32

Vivian Bales Company founder Arthur Davidson called Vivian Bales "The Georgia Peach," and newspapers across the country hailed the "Enthusiast Girl." Yet today, few people know who Vivian Bales is.

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HATTERS Vivian Bales! by Bales' story and arranged for it to be featured in the St. Petersburg newspaper and eventually the Atlanta Journal. Inspired by her successful trip and eager for more adventure, Bales decided to trade her Single for a 1929 45 Twin D model, which she described as a "real honey." Empowered by her new motorcycle, she wrote to Hap Jameson, editor of The Harley-Davidson Enthusiast, telling him that she'd like to make a solo trip north on her bike.

Support

Although Harley-Davidson wouldn't officially sponsor the ride, they decided to call her the "Enthusiast Girl," and provided her with two sweaters that proclaimed the title. She later received this trophy.

only 5 feet 2 inches and 95 pounds and unable to kick-start the bike on her own. Still, she soon made her first "big trip" with her best friend, Josephine Johnson, to St. Petersburg, Florida, a distance of more than 300 miles. The local HarleyDavidson dealer was fascinated

Bales' famous ride took place in the summer of 1929 when she was just 20 years old, and was featured in many national publications, as well as the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The HarleyDavidson Enthusiast.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; In each of the towns she passed through, Bales would meet the local dignitaries and HarleyDavidson dealers, most of whom would volunteer to support her ride. She even met President Hoover. In all, she travelled for 78 days and covered nearly 5,000 mile. Following her famous ride, Bales continued motorcycling, performing stunt riding at motorcycle races in Tallahassee, Florida. Although she never purchased an-

HATTERS â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Was it a dream? â&#x20AC;&#x2122; other motorcycle, Bales stated that her Harley-Davidson experience has remained one of the most significant of her life. It was so significant that before Vivian Bales Faison passed away on December 23, 2001, three weeks shy of her 93rd birthday, she requested a motorcycle procession at her funeral. Her wish was organized through Flint River HarleyDavidson of Albany. For the "Georgia Peach," this was a fitting final expression of the free spirit of all Harley-Davidson riders. When Vivian returned from her trip she chronicled her adventure in an article she wrote for The Harley-Davidson Enthusiast appearing in the November and December 1929 issues. Below is an excerpt.

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matter. But I was set and determined to "git," and now I'm glad I undertook it. I started to ride three years ago, buying one of the first HarleyDavidson Singles. The minute I got that Single I knew I had the key to the whole United States. I could go places. Adventure just tingled in my blood. It makes me so mad to hear that no girl should ride one. I just

Encouragement Was it a dream? Seems like it, for I never in all my life expected to travel as I did this year. And I just can't help but feel quite proud of my record, 5,000 miles through the most densely populated section of these United States, and all alone, too. Of course, I didn't get any encouragement from my folks, nor from anybody in Albany for that

Women pursued the sport and adventurously enjoyed the freedom of the open road - most notably, Vivian Bales

boil when I hear that. You bet I tell them what I think and don't mince my words either. I've never one minute been sorry I saved my money and bought my first motorcycle. I always wanted to do someContinued on page 34

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HATTERS Jumping with joy!

thing that most girls wouldn't do, like fly the Atlantic or something. My motorcycle gave me the chance to satisfy my adventurous spirit. I had to have a professional name so the Enthusiast editor permitted me to be known as the "Enthusiast Girl." Gee, I liked that! And since I rode a Harley-Davidson 45 why not plan my trip to call on as many Harley-Davidson dealers along the route as possible? That's just what I did. And if there are any of you readers thinking about touring with your HarleyDavidson, go ahead and tour, for Harley-Davidson dealers are scattered all over the geography.

also good to me featuring my picture and stories of my contemplated trip. I think these folks thought it was all a joke that a girl couldn't begin to do such a thing.

Newspapers I started to collect autographs while in Atlanta and I'm glad I did for now I have several books of them—and many of the names are of real celebrities, too. I tell you I felt mighty important with my letters of introduction to police chiefs, mayors, governors, Harley-Davidson dealers, newspaper men and

Pioneering Leaving my family and friends in a sceptical and blue mood, I left Albany, Georgia, on the morning of June 1. Luggage strapped on the rack, decked out in one of my white outfits, my heart just jumping with joy, I started out to do a little pioneering. There were 78 days ahead of me, 14 states, the District of Columbia and a province in Canada through which I must unravel a little more than 5,000 miles. The Atlanta newspapers were

Vivian Bales appeared on two different covers of The Enthusiast, and was later dubbed ‘The Enthusiast Girl.’

prominent motorcyclists here and there. Leo Noblik rode 50 miles with me out of Atlanta on my way to Augusta. Bob Summerau, Harley-Davidson dealer in Au-

HATTERS Wanted to stay longer! gusta, met me 20 miles out and escorted me into his fair city. Augusta is a wide-awake motorcycle town. The fellows are just all bang bang when it comes to going places and having fun. I didn't have hardly a minute to myself. I was on the go all the time. Three Augusta boys accompanied me 110 miles on my way to Camden, South Carolina, through

Page 35

only thing to do was to try and follow Columbus' advice and sail on, sail on and on. Folks, there was plenty of girl and 45 on that slippery road, sometime almost too much of both. But I had learned to ride my motorcycle over sandy and earth roads in Georgia, and no, I cashed (not crashed) in on this experience. For five hours we (45 and me) battled the goo, when asphalt pavement broke the 61-mile stretch of handlebar exercises.

Homesick

Vivian Bales

drizzling rain. I had to stop two days here because of wet clay roads. When I did hit the road, maybe you think I didn't have fun in that red and white clay! The

This stretch of road gave me the opportunity to open 'er up and I wheeled into Raleigh like nobody's business. I had some exciting times in Raleigh with very little sleep. But who wants to sleep when there's something to do? Ray Holliday with his spanking new 74L rode with me to Winston-Salem. Mr. J.R. Bolling met us at Greenboro. These Harley-Davidson folks, riders and dealers alike are "real" folks. What I mean, I just couldn't get homesick with such wonderful people trying to outdo each other on my behalf. I wanted to stay longer in each Continued on page 36

HATTERS President Hoover!

place but the long journey ahead kept on calling me. One of the greatest thrills of my trip was meeting and greeting President Hoover. This meeting was arranged by Mr. H.T. McIntosh, editor of the Albany Herold, and Senator Wm. J. Harris of Georgia.

Breeches I'll tell you that the president does not wait for anyone, so I had to be Johnnie-on-the-spot. With my heart all aflutter, I prepared my toilet very carefully selecting my favourite white riding breeches, a crisp white shirt, a dazzling white helmet, white oxford, golf socks and a white sweater with The Enthusiast Girl on the chest. Yes sir, I was togged to meet the chief executive. I wheeled up to the White House drive at 10:00 a.m. thrilled pink. If the folks at home could only see me now! The gate policeman asked me if I had an appointment with the president. "Well, I should say so," was my reply, showing him my certificate of appointment. I was escorted all through the executive mansion, room to room, hall to hall, up and down stairs. Massive and command-

‘

I'll tell you that the president does not wait for anyone.

‘

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ing portraits of our former presidents and their wives hung everywhere. It seemed as though they were gazing at the Enthusiast Girl out of sombre antiquity, but I gazed right back at them. It was 12:00 noon before I was ushered into the president's office. I immediately recognized

‘My 45 has taken me to see more places and things than I ever saw before .’

President Hoover standing beside his desk at the far end of the room. With my eyes fixed

HATTERS The White House! on his friendly face, I walked right over with my very best Harley-Davidson smile in full force and shook hands with him. Nope, I didn't vamp on him for Mrs. Hoover was present. I was too fussed to remember his exact words to me, but he certainly made me feel welcome. Glancing around the room I saw at least 25 people, his secretaries and body guards I was told. What an experience! I rode away from the White House the most important person on earth—you know the feeling. Why, I had had the hand of the president of these glorious United States, the hand that had greeted Lindy and other famous world celebrities. Vivian wrote in her journal after meeting the president:

‘

My 45 seemed more spirited than ever, a blue-ribbon thoroughbred. Just think, my 45 has taken me to see more places and things than I ever saw

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In the next issue of

Read part two of Vivian's journey that took her to Baltimore; Wilmington, Delaware; Philadelphia; Trenton, New Jersey; Newark, New Jersey and then on to the Big Apple.

What would you like to see in YOUR magazine?

If you have any suggestions for articles you would like to read, please send me an e-mail, and I will do my utmost to research the article for you. editor@hatterschapter.co.uk

—Ed

‘

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HATTERS Photo competition!

There was a good response to the monthly photo competition this year, with an equal proportion of celebrities and famous locations being featured. Prize for the monthly winner was a ticket to the Hatters Christmas Do, and the six winning entries were in with a chance of winning ÂŁ100.

THE WINNING PHOTOGRAPHS

en stin Gre u A m o fr Zero Ground

from D ebbie Hustw Micha it â&#x20AC;&#x201C; el Rut ter

HATTERS And the winner is?

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from Mike Greer – Waterloo . Two Pints mate looks Stoned.

from Gillian Cox – Bill Weston and Ratty

from David Sherlock – Claire Nasir

OVERALL WINNER

The winner of the £100 was Denise Mason, with her photo of herself, Brian and Sophie at the US Marine memorial in Washington.

Page 40

HATTERS Ross Takes the Lead!

From the sharp end – WELL, 2013 IS UPON US, and we’re raring to get on with it.

FIRST OF ALL LET’S TAKE A STEP BACK TO SEPTEMBER 2008, and my first experience of a Hatters rideout. It was supposed to be a tour of Yorkshire but ended up as a ride to a multistorey car park in Huddersfield – it became known as the “Batcave” ride – and we were back at the dealership by lunchtime. Keith Burke, was Head Road Captain at the time but was not leading this ride, he came over to me after the ride and said “It’s ROSS: Takes a step back not normally like this, if you want to join us, we are going for a ride through Cheshire to Snugbury’s Ice Cream shop.” I went and had a back into riding he would be able to cope, but great afternoon. The last ride of the year was work commitments made planning our rides the inaugural “Ride To The Wall”, Keith led very difficult, if not impossible. At Wake the the Chapter down to the assembly point beLakes rally he had a chat with the Road Capfore setting off, en mass, for the Arboretum. tains, he again needed help to get through the An amazing day, we got wet on the way home rideout calendar. The weather and problems but I’d got the bug, 2008 over and already with the website didn’t help in getting the numlooking forward to 2009. bers out but we stuck at it.

WHAT THE HELL . . . ?

Move on 3 months and it’s the AGM, the crowd on the rowdy table on the top deck at Hough End have all put their names forward for positions on the committee and what’s more they all get elected. Ratty becomes Treasurer, Mandy the Webmistress, Trev. Head Road Captain, and Mark the Safety Officer. What the hell have we let ourselves in for???? The next 2 years were fantastic, too many amazing rideouts to recall, but all excellently planned and executed. Towards the end of 2010, Trev was beginning to feel the strain. He offered to stay in the position of Head Road Captain for 2011 if there were no other volunteers and would help plan rideouts, but the Road Captains would have to lead them. Malc, Aiden and Ratty stepped in to lead and did a fine job, but then we lost the dealership. No meeting place, and things seemed to begin to fall apart. 2012, and again Trev took the role, as there was no-one else. He felt that once he was

To Trev, a big thank you for everything you have done for the Chapter, and we wish both you and Mandy, all the very best for the future. And now for 2013. I have moved from the easy job of Chapter Photographer, to the not quite so easy job of Head Road Captain. Following a meeting with our Road Captains on 3rd Feb, the 2013 rideout calendar was finalised, and issues regarding the marshalling of rideouts, and the introduction of members “new to group riding,” into the rideouts discussed. I hope there is something that appeals to everyone on the calendar, even some evening rideouts. All we need now is some decent weather so we can get out there and ride. ROSS — HEAD ROAD CAPTAIN

Cheers Ross, I’m just nipping out to fill up my tank! —Ed

HATTERS Ride-Out Calendar!

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2013 PLANNED RIDE-OUTS DATE 24th Mar

DEPARTURE DESTINATION TIME 11:00 Delamere Forest & Legends Café

TOTAL MILES 60

NOTE

MEETING POINT Barton

7th Apr

10:30

Lytham St Annes via Preston H-D

100

Barton

21st Apr

10:30

Shropshire BikeFest - RAF Cosford

140

Fee

Barton

28th Apr

10:30

Fee

Barton

19th May

TBC

23rd May

19:00

Hack Green Nuclear Bunker - Nantwich Dambusters 70th anniversary - Ladybower reservoir & Castleton White Lion Inn - Barthomley

2nd Jun

10:30

Denbigh Castle

9th Jun

10:30

Barton

150

Fee

Barton

Fee

Barton

15th Jun

TBC

20th Jun

19:00

Vintage & Classic M/C Show - Leyland Chapter camp ride - Tan-Y-Pistyll waterfall Assheton Arms - Downham

30th Jun

10:30

Bolton Abbey

180

14th Jul

10:30

Chesterfield H-D

100

18th Jul

19:00

Cat & Fiddle Inn

21st Jul

TBC

Peak Village Tour

110

28th Jul