Throttler Motorcycle Magazine by Roderick Kabel

AUGUST2011 ISSUE6 VOLUME4 www.throttlermagazine.com / Twitter: @ThrottlerMag / Facebook: Throttler Motorcycle Mag

THIS MONTH 06 Publisher’s Note It’s hot out!

08 AMA Flat track racing AMA Pro-Racing hits Iowa’s Knoxville Raceway

12 Johnny & Jay Strip Club Choppers covers Sturgis

14 Give it a Tri

This isn’t your grandpa’s trike

16 An untamed attitude Ruling the asphalt range

18 Burning up the miles Endurance riding isn’t for the meek

20 Vintage Motocross Bringing the BRRRRRRRAP!

22 Nights & Rallies Who, what, where and when

Publisher & Advertising: Roderick “Caine” Kabel roderick@throttlermagazine.com 515.210.7066 Vice President & Circulation: Scott “Kong” Chambers scott@throttlermagazine.com

President & Accounting: Stacy “Fancy Face” Kabel stacy@throttlermagazine.com Motocross Editor: Sean “Wide Open” Goulart Graphic Design Intern: Amanda “Hulkster” Strong Editorial Contributors: Sean Goulart , Tony Tice, Johnny Lange, Jay Barbieri, Dean Lambert, Ken Bingenheimer

Policies: All content is 2011 copyright THROTTLER MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE L.L.C. THROTTLER MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE L.L.C. is published and distributed throughout IA, IL, KS, MN, MO, NE, SD, WI. Readers are permitted one free copy per month; contact the publisher for additional mailed copies at $6 each. THROTTLER MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE L.L.C. is not responsible for loss, damage or any other injury of unsolicited material. THROTTLER MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE L.L.C. does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor does THROTTLER MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE L.L.C. assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Statements of fact and opinion in articles written by contributing columnists and writers are solely those of the author alone and do not necessarily imply those of THROTTLER MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE L.L.C. Material may not be reprinted in any form without expressed written permission from the publisher of THROTTLER MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE L.L.C. All data and information provided is for informational purposes only. Throttler Motorcycle Magazine makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information written and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis.

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wTF?! It’s hot, man! Tips to keep you safe

ow, I don’t mind rain nor do I mind a little cold or hot riding weather. However, riding in this heat is much akin to having my head stuck in Ron Popeil’s Showtime Rotisserie and someone definetly forgot to turn the damn thing off.

Here’s a few tips from David L. Hough, best known for the monthly skills series “Proficient Motorcycling” in Motorcycle Consumer News: Sweating: The body has sweat glands to keep the skin damp. The evaporating sweat sucks heat from the skin, and transfers it to the air. Of course sweat is primarily water, so it’s critical to keep replenishing the supply. That’s one reason why we need to drink about a pint of water every hour during hot, dry conditions. One problem for motorcyclists is that at highway speed, the sweat glands may not keep up with the evaporation. Or, if the sweating uses up too much water, your body temperature regulating system goes on the fritz, like a dry battery. Symptoms of trouble: The human body won’t take much of an increase in core temperature without complaining. The symptoms of overheating are leg cramps, tired muscles,

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headaches, dizziness, and even fainting. The various symptoms are trying to tell you how overcooked you’re getting. Heat Cramps: Muscle cramps caused by heat usually effect the legs and lower abdomen first, then the arms. Heat cramps are a symptom that the body’s electrolytes are running low. It’s not smart to ignore muscle cramps. Find some shade and take a break. Sip water or an “exercise” drink Exert firm pressure or massage the cramped muscles to relieve the spasms. If you’re still in pain, the recommended first aid dose is 1/2 teaspoon of table salt per half glass of water every 15 minutes. Heat Stroke: If you experience heat exhaustion and just try to “tough out” the heat without getting cooled down and rehydrated, the body thermostats will begin to fail. Core temperature continues to rise (may go as high as 106 or 107 degrees F.), sweating stops, the heart beats even faster, and you may pass out. If you are coherent enough to recognize the symptoms, immediately get medical aid while you are still mobile. And watch your riding buddies for any of the following heat stroke symptoms. Adjust your thinking: If you live in a temperate area where the thermometer seldom rises above 90F, you need to readjust your

AUGUST2011

thinking for those forays into hotter territory. Remember, insulate your skin from the sun and hot air, use evaporative cooling around your neck, and drink lots of water. Oh yeh, learn to ignore the stares of other motorists and dehydrated bikers who think you’re crazy to wear heavy gear on a hot day. Our cover story this month is the AMA Flat Track races that will be held September 9 in Knoxville, Iowa. I assure you that this will be like nothing you’ve seen in quite a while. No, this is not a chance for you to bring your bike and race. These are the AMA Pros on the circuit racing for the crown. We’ve been assured by Knoxville’s marketing director, Brian Stickle, that the atmosphere will be electric, the track will be fast and the fans will be packing the stands. The Midwest has some really great riders that have become Grand National Champions and front runners in the series. Names like Chet Dykgraaf, Bart Markel, Jay Springsteen, Randy Goss, Garth Brow, Ted Boody, Scotty Parker, Rich King, Aaron King, Jared Mees and Henry Wiles. We hope to see you at Knoxville and please do us a favor by patronizing our advertisers. Without them, we wouldn’t be hear. See you next year! As always, ride hard. — R. & S. Kabel and Scott Chambers

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AMA Flat track racing

T By Tony Tice

his September 9 and 10 will hopefully mark the beginning of a new annual routine for the Knoxville Raceway. Last year’s AMA Flat Track Series fell under unfortunate circumstances with a record September rain, canceling the races. This year’s AMA Flat Track Series round is again on the premier dirt track in Iowa, the Knoxville Raceway in Knoxville. Home of the Knoxville Nationals equivalent to the Indianapolis 500 of winged sprint car racing. The black clay oval has been the epicenter of sprint car racing for years and has had previous flat track motorcycle racing events there, too. In talking with Marketing Manager Brian Stickel of the Knoxville Raceway, he said that they are really looking forward to hosting this round of the series again this year. Stickel is anticipating between 5,000 and 7,000 spectators, which would be

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near capacity in the stands. He also stated that, “we will have the track in motorcycle racing form, which means considerably slicker than the tacky stuff the sprint cars must run on. It’s been 11 years since motorcycles have run in Knoxville.” The Knoxville half mile long oval was originally constructed for horse racing in late 1800s. The first official car race took place on the track in 1914. Since then it has been the home of a variety of events including high school football games on the infield, high school track and field meets, and of course, nearly every type of internal combustion racing imaginable on a dirt surface. Having seen motorcycle flat track racing many times over the years, there is always something that catches me just right. Whether it’s the track, the racers, the event itself as a whole, I have never been left wanting from the racing. It’s always close racing, the riders within inches at times, making for great, exciting spectating. There’s nothing better than a couple bikes inches apart racing for the win at 100 plus miles per hour on

AUGUST2011

dirt. Unless it’s four bikes or six or eight, you get the picture. Naturally the Midwest has some really great riders that have become Grand National Champions and front runners in the series. Names like Chet Dykgraaf, Bart Markel, Jay Springsteen, Randy Goss, Garth Brow, Ted Boody, Scotty Parker, Rich King, Aaron King, Jared Mees and Henry Wiles just to name a few. Of these riders, some have become AMA Hall of Fame members, a prestigious and elite group of people for sure. There are many forms of motorcycles racing on dirt, some have been around since the beginning. Some recently developed, some forms with brakes, others without brakes and still others with just rear brakes. Cross country distance racing in the early days of motorcycling certainly was an important part of development for the manufacturers to show off their machine’s reliability and speed over the long haul. However, not very satisfying for the spectators. Flat track racing became the next best choice; people could watch the bikes and riders on a

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AMA Pro-Racing hits Iowa’s Knoxville Raceway closed (not public roads) circuit and see all the action that was occurring. If the race was long enough (which many were with multiple pitstops) it would also showcase the durability of the machines and thus proving to the consumer which brand was best. “What wins on Sunday sells on Monday.” The most common phrases that you will constantly hear about when at a flat track race is “hooking up” or “getting a hold of the track,” the “groove,” and the “cushion.” When they say hooking up or getting a hold of, what they are actually talking about is getting traction to the ground. Mechanical traction is the tire’s grip on the race surface and what every rider is looking for over the length of the race. And if the surface becomes “blue grooved” the tires are actually melting to the surface of the track and leaving rubber. When this condition occurs, finding the hook up in the groove is what these guys will look for. On any track, the width of the groove can be from inches to 10’s of feet depending on track prep. On the half-mile tracks, the length of the groove can be the entire distance of the track. In mile tracks, it can be the corners and maybe 1/3 - 1/2 the length of the straight-aways. And the cushion: it’s the outside edge of the racing line where there is a cushion of loosely piled dirt. But all this has to do with track preparation. This is what some of the pro racers talk about a lot when it comes to the non-Harley bikes. The Harley twins will rule the shorter tracks because of their power and the way the motor accelerates, especially if the groove is narrow and short. Running an entire race without using the tires up in the process is what makes the Harley so great in this arena. Even the longer tracks where the Ducatis, Aprilias, Kawasakis, Suzukis, et al, have an rpm and power advantage, it still comes down to the management of the machine and tires. For anyone who has followed flat track racing, Harley-Davidson has been a major player since the beginning. Even in modern days the XR750 is the twins bike to beat, especially on the half miles. It has been massaged over the years by a lot of builders and racers with an enormous wealth of information available. The bike was built specifically for this type of racing. The engine, with its syncopated firing order, big heavy crank wheels, and (somewhat comparatively) lazy demeanor makes for a great flat track racing engine: easy to get hooked up and predictable con-

trol. Personally, I’ve never had the opportunity to run one on my dyno but, given half a chance, I’d be all over it like white on rice, on a paper plate, in a snow storm. In recent years, the AMA has sought other manufacturers to participate in the twins class. Several years ago the AMA invited long time Harley Factory Race Manager Bill Werner to build a Kawasaki parallel twin engine to see what he could come up with. The engine was good enough for Werner to switch brands. Nowadays, he has switched to the Kawasaki Versys engine and has recently made big strides with it. Overcoming the deathgrip that Harley has on this series, which was mostly formed by Werner himself, is going to be a hard fought battle. On May 1, 2010, Joe Kopp, riding a custom made bike using a 1000cc Ducati Supersport air cooled engine, won the main event at the Yavapai Downs Raceway in Prescott Valley, AZ. This is the only non-Harley win of this year so far. And the first non-Harley win in a while. The rules change continually in the

twins class to keep the racing close. Which also means that in order to keep the racing close, those that find an advantage are then scrutinized and “assessed” either a horsepower restricting method, mostly carburetor restrictor plates, or weight penalties depending on what is found to be an advantage. The Singles Class has changed quite a bit over the years, too. Rotax had a Harley-esque stranglehold on this class until just a few years ago when the Yamaha YZ400F was introduced. The Yamaha’s quick revving single cylinder 4 stroke engine had a serious rpm advantage which made it infinitely more versatile than the old Rotax motors. When the aftermarket got a hold of the ignition boxes and gave them even more rpm, it became a nobrainer. Now Yamaha’s YZ450F, Honda’s CRF450R, Kawasaki’s KX450F, KTM’s 450, and Suzuki’s RMZ450 are all comparative engines. Henry Wiles, the 2008 AMA #2 Singles rider uses a Kawasaki based racer. Wiles, on a recent interview stated that the bike is easy to ride and very fast. He also uses the same bike with a different suspension set-up to race TT tracks with. Another Pro-AMA racer, Iowan Aaron King, is making his presence known. Aaron is sort of racing in his legendary father’s shadow, Rich King, formerly an AMA Champion on a Bill Werner tuned factory Harley. Aaron is racing an Aprilia 1000cc v-twin from the Mille’ R machine in the twins class. The Lloyd’s Brothers Racing Team - Aaron’s main sponsor and this also teammate to perennial front runner Kenny Coolbeth - decided a few years ago to give the Aprilia a try and have since been refining the machine trying to get to the front. Aaron stated that, “it isn’t for a lack of power, it’s keeping the tire hooked up.” The motor has so much power that he burns the rear tire up before the end of the race. The better the surface is traction-wise, the better the bike is. In September of 2008, the AMA decided to have a flat track round held in conjunction with the first ever MotoGP race at the Brickyard. The famous Indy Mile at the Indiana State Fairgrounds has been the home of some of the most memorable moments in flat track racing history. This particular event would be pivotal for AMA Pro Flat Track Racing as the huge crowd was the largest ever with many of the spectators getting their first glimpse of the American original racing series. The 140 mph straightaway speeds throttlermotorcyclemagazine 09

AMA racing Continued from page 09 combined with 100+ mph corner speeds awed the spectators. It did not fail to satisfy. Mike Kidd, AMA Pro Flat Track Racing manager, said that there will be close to 100 participants in the pro twins & singles classes at this year’s Knoxville round. He pointed out that track prep will be key for one of the fastest 1/2 mile ovals in country. “The dirt at Knoxville is in a league all it’s own with a lot of traction available. If the prep is good, the speeds will be beyond any other ½ mile tracks they race at, said Kidd. When pressed for who he likes in these conditions - when he finally relented, in other words - Kidd stated that he thinks it will be between Chris Carr, Kenny Coolbeth,

and Joe Kopp in the twins class, and reigning AMA Singles Champ Brad Baker and Jeff Carver in the singles class. Kidd also stated that he expects the racing to be very close. If the track conditions turn out to be like asphalt and the track stays smooth,

who better than a MotoGP 125 racer to take advantage of those conditions? My dark horse choice for the win in the twins is going to be Stevie Bonsey. And the singles win in that situation, Ottumwa Iowa native AMA Pro Supermoto Champ, Matt Burton. And if all that racing activity wasn’t enough, there will be an autograph session before the main events start with all the pros being available at Knoxville. After the races are over, the pits will be open to the spectators, just another chance to get up close and personal with the best professional flat track racers in the World. For more info and tickets go to www.knoxvilleraceway.com. Now, if only you could just get a seat on the inside rail of turns 2 or 4….

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able baffles and all our full systems are ceramic coated inside and outside to keep you cooler. When looking for exhaust for your bike look at what RUSH Racing Products has to offer you. Call 866-99-4RUSH or email to sales@rushracingproducts.com.

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Agency. In addition, our well-rounded selection of... Biodegradable, Waterless Automotive Cleaners are complemented by an equally impressive array of High-End, Ultra-Plush, Ultra-Absorbant, Anti-Static, Microfiber Towels & Tricot-Weave Polishing Cloths! In short, our mission is to provide Automotive Enthusiasts of every age, of every kind, all over our precious, green planet the opportunity to take part & experience today the future standards by which all “environmentally-conscious” communities will one day be held. AUGUST2011

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throttlermotorcyclemagazine 11

Sturgis 2011

On the Road with Johnny & Jay

Johnny Lange and Jay Barbieri

For info contact Strip Club Choppers at: info@stripclubchoppers.com or 714-465-7103 www.stripclubchoppers.com

Strip Club Choppers covers Sturgis By Jay Barbieri and Johnny Lange Jay Barbieri produced and hosted American Thunder of the Speed Channel, authored the “Bikers Hand Book” and is currently the executive producer and host of Two Wheel Thunder on the Discovery Networks HD Theater. Johnny Lange is the founder and owner of Strip Club Choppers.

his year at the 71st annual Strugis Bike Week Strip Club Choppers will have multiple locations in operation from August 5-14. With expansion of SCC state franchisees and demand for their clothing, SCC will have three vending areas in place.

Co-owners Johnny Lange and Jay Barbieri will take the helm at the main SCC seventy-foot display that will be stationed at the world famous Buffalo Chip, where they will be autographing posters and books as well as filming for an upcoming reality series (www.buffalochip.com). This year the guys have decked out the iconic freightliner with new custombuilt strip poles, lights and outrageous new merchandise. And to kick off this year’s event they will unveil their new Stripperglide. The 2010 Harley-Davidson Streetglide that was made famous by the proprietary quick release full size stripper pole has undergone a dramatic remake. Details about this custom creation are being closely guarded until it’s début. Manning the booth at Desperado Junction in Lead will be West coast franchisee Lee “Big Slick” Burris. Desperado Junction Expo is a new Black Hills Rally Vendor Site located at the corner of

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Highway 14 and Glendale Drive in Lead, South Dakota. The Desperado Junction Expo will offer a Miss Desperado Junction Contest, a Leather & Lace Auction, free bike parking, Great Food and a Large Beer Tent (www.desperadojunction.com). Covering the Glencoe Campground location is Dannie “Sturdy” George the proprietor of the SCC Missouri franchisee. Sturdy will be set up at the new beach party venue Glencoe is offering this year with 1600 feet of white sand, bikini clad girls and a 24/7 party. (www.glencoecamp.com) On another note By Johnny Lange An old friend of mine called asking if I had bike parts available in flat black. And without hesitation, my inner salesman kicked in and I proceeded to give him the available product inventory. I quickly learned that he was upgrading a Harley-Davidson for his nephew who was currently serving his third tour in Afghanistan after two successful tours in Iraq. When I say successful, I guess that means still alive and well. I told him I had to leave town and would get him some stuff at my cost before Sturgis and didn’t give it much more thought because I was so self-absorbed in preparing for all the activities I have scheduled in Sturgis. Things changed dramatically for these young men when on July 12, Lance Cpl.

AUGUST2011

Robert S. Greninger of Greenfield, MN, was killed in Afghanistan. Cpl. Greninger served along side my friend’s nephew SSgt. Chris Shranko and saved the lives of many of his fellow soldiers with his brave actions that cost him his life. I began to think about all the young men and women who pay the ultimate price for us to enjoy all the freedoms we take for granted in this country. The freedom to take a summer vacation the freedom to fly on an airplane the freedom to attend a motorcycle event. I know it’s a cliché, but freedom is not free. It cost this young man — who was just beginning his life — his future. You may not personally know anyone who is serving in the military but everyone over there is someone’s son or daughter, mother or father. So the next time you see someone in uniform remember the reason you were able to go to the movies last night is because they paid the ultimate price to keep us free. You may not agree with the politics or the administration that is in office but these young men and women don’t have time to concern themselves with idiotic rhetoric — they are too busy sacrificing there lives so you can enjoy yours. Obviously I felt the need to do something more so I will be donating all the parts for the bike as well as sending a care package of SCC swag to Afghanistan for their entire unit which seems so inconsequential in the scheme of things.

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11 Common Mistakes by Motorcycle Riders and How to Avoid Them

#1 Way to Avoid an Accident and 9 Insider Secrets to Avoid Costly Mistakes By COREY WALKER Corey@IowaInjured.com

Iowans who ride motorcycles are beginning to realize that they should learn about how to avoid an accident and if they have been in an accident how to avoid costly mistakes. Some riders fail to bring their case within time limitations (which can be as short as 6 months to provide notice) while others do not learn about their rights. A New Book about Iowa motorcycle accidents is being offered at No Cost, Risk or Obligation which reveals: • #1 Way to Avoid a Motorcycle Accident • 9 Insider Secrets to Avoid Costly Mistakes • 7 Things to Know Before Talking to the Insurance Adjustor or Hiring an Attorney and much more. Why offer a Book at No Cost? Because since 1997, Iowa Personal Injury Attorney Corey Walker has represented hundreds of injured Iowans including many who have been injured in motorcycle accidents and he has seen too many make mistakes resulting in

them losing thousands of dollars. Franklin of Washington, Iowa says “Corey’s book includes information that most people don’t know but should in case of an accident.” James of Sioux City says “I would recommend this book to my friends because most riders I know are informed with their bikes, the roads, and their abilities, but not the laws.” Why offer a free book? Because after having represented hundreds of injured Iowans, Iowa Injury Attorney Corey Walker has seen the consequences of costly mistakes. Finally, you can learn about motorcycle accidents in the comfort of your own home with no risk or obligation. If you own a motorcycle; or if you or a loved one have been injured in an accident and do not have an attorney then this book is for you. Claim your copy (while supplies last) Call Now (800)-707-2552, ext. 215 (24 Hour Recorded Message) or go to www. MotorcycleAccidentBook.com. Our Guarantee- If you do not learn at least one thing from the book let us know and we will donate $100 in your name to ABATE (A Brotherhood Aimed Towards Education which works for you, the motorcycle enthusiast.) throttlermotorcyclemagazine 13

Give it a Tri Main Street Trikes & Bikes 522 Main Street PO Box 37 Granville, Iowa 712-727-3515 E-Mail: Karl Kellen, karlsbb@mtcnet.net

TrikeYourBike, LLC. 503 1st Avenue North Altoona, Iowa 50009 515-967-7667 E-Mail: Terry Sapp, terrys@trikeyourbike.net Model in photo is Brandi.

This isn’t your grandpa’s trike

By Dean Lambert

oday’s trike rider is younger and more hip than you’d think. Attitudes about threewheelers are changing fast, according to two Midwest trike builders. We spoke to Terry Sapp of TrikeYourBike.net and Karl Kellen of Main Street Bikes & Trikes. Their businesses are growing despite the economy, which is something many motorcycle dealers can’t say.

Early on, trikes had a bad rep for being unstable and not handling well. However, great strides in suspension and rake kits made specifically to accommodate design dynamics of trike front ends offer improved traction, stability and safety. Moreover, trikes are less “invisible” to cagers due to their wider stance and profile. Add to that the additional gear and hauling capacity, and a trike begins to make real sense to people who like their fists in the wind and a clear view of the open road. Terry and Karl agree that common perceptions about trikes are different today than when they started business. It is an ever-expanding market, not unnoticed by major manufacturers of touring motorcycles such as Harley-Davidson and Honda. The “big two” have seen their long-distance scoots rigged up for

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many years with conversion kits. Mark Hyland, a longtime rider owns TrikeYourBike.net, which is part of the larger Majestic Truck Collision and Frame Repair in Altoona, IA. Majestic has been in business for 30 years. According to Sapp, Hyland wanted to ride something more comfortable, did some research, and in April of 2011 founded the trike manufacturing subsidiary. “We wanted to pick a name that described the company, and most trikes are conversions,” says Sapp. “TrikeYourBike. net is exactly what we do.” TrikeYourBike.net uses kits from Motor Trike, Inc. They believe Motor Trike offers the best conversion kit in the market, particularly in the area of suspension. TrikeYourBike.net techs leverage Motor Trike’s factory training to ensure their customers enjoy a well-built, safe trike that can be ridden trouble-free for tens of thousands of miles. TrikeYourBike.net and can convert your own bike; or if you’re new to biking, they sell turnkey units. Sapp says they sell mostly Honda Goldwings for walk-in customers. “We purchase good used Goldwings — smart buys — then we convert them, paint them and they’re ready to go.” Prices vary, but if you convert your own bike the price range is $10,000 to $12,000 depending on options. Just like their two-wheeled cousins, the sky’s the limit when it comes to building and customizing.

AUGUST2011

TrikeYourBike.net prides itself on quality manufacturing, excellent service and custom painting. “Our facility is a state-ofthe-art,” says Sapp. We use OEM paint and have a graphic designer-painter who can really make the bike look great. Ghost flames, shadowing, and just about anything you can think of.” Sapp reports that custom paint is the most requested type of additional work. Main Street Trikes & Bikes was founded in 2006. Like TrikeYourBike.net, Owners Karl and Melissa Kellen worked in the vehicle body repair business prior to getting into trikes. Their auto body repair shop was founded in 1996 and when they decided it was time to expand the shop in the early 2000s, they wanted to build something they could grow into. Problem is, you need the additional income to support the increased space. Karl and Melissa’s shop did some custom painting for a local Honda dealer, who suggested they might consider getting into the custom bike business. Karl initially did some research on starting a custom chopper division but trikes intrigued him, mainly because back in 2006 the average trike buyer was a retired person with the means to own a $25,000$35,000 recreational vehicle. “Very few of our customers needed to finance back then, and in the 65-70 age group, they still don’t today,” says Karl Kellen. “But since much of our customer base is retired and has money put away, they come in and pay cash. Very

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few had to finance. I am glad we did this instead of choppers.” It was indeed a good bet. Over the last couple of years Kellen reports his average customer’s age has dropped from 65-70 to about 60, which to marketing people is a huge shift in that short of a time period. It means one thing: Way more younger folks are seeing the appeal of riding a trike. Main Street Trikes & Bikes does a 50-50 split of turnkey projects and conversions. Many of Main Street’s customers call and want a trike “right now,” so they generally keep 12 to 15 units in stock, ready for delivery. But that doesn’t stop his customers from accessorizing liberally. “We do a little customizing, but when we do a demo, we add ground effects, chrome and so on,” Kellen says. “But we also carry a big inventory of chrome, lights and other accessories for customers who want to add more of their own touch.” Main Street is a dealer for Motor Trike, California Sidecar, Champion and the Thoroughbred Motorsports Stallion. The latter appeals to the female market, due to

features such as a steering wheel and automatic transmission. In fact, the average age of female purchasers is younger than men. Many women riders opt for Sportster and Soft Tail conversions, which offer a zippier ride than the touring models. Many riding enthusiasts choose trikes because they have knee or back problems that prohibit them from supporting a heavyweight touring motorcycle. But more and more people are riding trikes because they look cool, handle well, ride better over long distances, and carry more gear. “There’s still a bit of an ego problem as far as thinking trikes are for older riders,” Kellen says, “But this is really changing and we’ve been growing every year since we started up — even when the market hit bottom in 2008.” There’s no doubt about it: Trikes are part of the changing dynamic of the motorcycling industry. Innovations in manufacturing technology, accessories such as wheels, lighting and paint, and a growing number of builders will have us seeing many more on the road and at bike rallies across America. throttlermotorcyclemagazine 15

An untamed attitude

Ruling the asphalt range

By Luuezz Denise Gasper

agabondAthena “Chickie” Ransom is a toolbox of memories. She’s a female bike builder reflecting spirit and viewpoints of old school lifestyles with today’s attitude. She brings back all the nostalgia in her high energy personality and makes one reflect on just how good the past really was.

Athena is a woman who is striving to hold onto the “strong” in old school traditions. She lives and breathes motorcycles. She teaches her children the importance of old school values and respect. With a long established old school behavior, biker woman are few, and those who ride their own are fewer, so with this comes the pure biker attitude. Many wake up each day to breathe and live their lives in the core of their souls, the old school tradition. It is who they are as a dying breed of the new generation of bike riders. It is not something that can be bought or earned; it is a way of life. It consists of a tradition of values and sacrifice. The old school attitude is tough and raw, not shallow, superficial, indulged, status. It’s about bikers who live and ride the American Made Motorcycles, people who actually live it, ride it and they don’t give a rat’s ass what anyone thinks about it, back when friends were friends for life. As we got to enjoy our friendship over the course of three days, I was pay-

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Pink 8 Balls

ing close attention to her during our conversations. I found that she is quite passionate about everything in her life. When you first meet Athena, you will note the feeling of independence with a sincerity of friendliness and strength. When Athena talks she has everyone’s attention as if she�s on stage. With her many fascinating detailed stories, I tried to hold on to that rhythm. She has been featured in various magazines and television shows including the Discovery Channel’s “American Chopper” and “All Girl Biker Build Off”. Athena is one of the Chopper Chick (www.Chopperchick.com) Crew whom helped build a motorcycle for breast cancer in Daytona 2007 in 7 hours and 13 minutes! She is known for her skill in fabrication and assembly. Athena’s vision and pride is to build each old school chopper like the prehistoric metal skeleton of a V-Twin. Her choppers are clean, reliable and rideable and they never compromise the performance of the motorcycle. She states design and fabrication are the key elements to achieving the custom look and ride that each customer envisions. Her �old school style� combined with modern technology creates a chopper that has grass roots of the 60’s and 70’s. Being a female rider and chopper builder, do you specialize and fabricate builds for woman bikers? I am not gender specific and each chopper takes on a personality of their own, my goal is to give the customer what

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they envision in a safe, reliable and clean fashion. Sometimes I get to do what I want and they usually turn heads just the same. What advice would you give other women who are pursuing their dreams, into what was, a man’s world? Never make it about gender, if you have to do it twice as good to prove you have the heart and soul to do it- don’t bitch about it, stay focused and always keep a positive outlook especially in the face of adversity. Most of all stay passionate about what you do or don’t do it. Respect the history of what you do and those who have done it before you regardless of gender, theirs or yours. What kind of chopper have you built for yourself? Tell me about your red heart. My Heart Chopper has my own entire patent pending heart shaped partsTaillight, Mirrors, Gas Cap and Oil Filler Cap- It all started with a glass heart that Don (husband) gave me. I built a chopper around it- It is my shifter- Gurder front end and custom Vagabarz make it a comfy chopper. The Jay Brake hydraulic clutch makes the suicide ride smooth. I have both primary belt drive BDL and final belt drive, so you can wear any attire (no chain spots) I designed the heart shaped flames and did a ton of cool fabrication from exhaust mounts and metal, to frame and wiring. She is a beauty and is like me, extremely personable” Athena said. For Information http://vagabondchoppers.com/wp/

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Burning up the miles

Riders on the Mother Road Rally cruise down a long-abandoned stretch of old Route 66. Photo: Chuck Shipler

Endurance riding isn’t for the meek

By Ken Bingenheimer

here’s nothing a motorcyclist prefers to do than head out on a gorgeous day and take a little cruise. One thousand miles is a good, round number. Why not shoot for that? Too far? Really? You must not be an Iron Butt rider. “I just got back from watching several friends start the Iron Butt Rally in Seattle, and then cross the finish line 11 days later in Ontario, California (and to get from Seattle to Ontario, I rode the 4 Corners Tour and the IBA’s 10-10ths ride).” That’s a note received in early July from Dan Leffert, who is an Iron Butt rider. The IBA he mentions is the Iron Butt Association (http://www.ironbutt.com/). The 10-10ths ride requires 10 consecutive 1,000-mile days. The 4 Corners Tour (http://www. usa4corners.org/)is an AMAsanctioned ride that touches all four corners of the continental U.S.: San Ysidro, CA; Blaine, WA; Madawaska, ME; Key West, FL. The basic 1,000-miles-inone-day IBA ride is called the SaddleSore ride, and you don’t need three guesses to figure out where they got that name.

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researched the route and made friends along the way. Stops are planned at historic sites and a number of businesses open just for the group on days when they otherwise are closed. “If you studied Route 66 you’d understand that it’s got three or four or sometimes Beyond the Iron Butt But they’re not alone. In fact, for many rid- five different alignments in different places,” ers distance cruising is the new Sunday says Rally Master George Higgins. “I could afternoon jaunt. And it’s better with probably do five years in a row in Illinois and hit different spots every year. You hit the friends. Got a yen to ride historic Route 66 but main ones every year but you can put in not sure how to find the original stretches smaller spots that you don’t always hit and of this old road that no longer exists? The that makes it different every year.” Or maybe you’re a veteran and you’re Mother Road Rally (http://www.hhjm.com/ rally/) might be just your thing. This tour interested in honoring your old comrades heads out of Chicago every year in early from Vietnam, or Kuwait, or Iraq, who June and features a Rally Master who has didn’t make it home. Then your choice might be the Run for the Wall (http://www.rftw.org/), which starts in California each year, timed to arrive in Washington, DC, for the Rolling Thunder demonstration over Memorial Day weekend. “I’m doing this to help make people aware that we still have a lot of missing people that aren’t accounted for,” says a road guard with the Run for the Wall, who identifies himself by his road name, Santa. “And our federal government, at least as far as I’m concerned, Mother Road Rally riders they don’t give a shit. They’re cruising Oatman, AZ. not doing nothing about it. It’s The IBA has a decal you can stick on your windshield with the image of a rider superimposed on an outline map of the U.S., with the wording, “My local riding area.” These guys are hard-core.

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Photo Dave Grose

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Will Barclay receives a big check as the winner of the 2010 Hoka Hey. The award ceremony was held at the Broken Spoke Saloon Campground in Sturgis during last year’s rally. Photo: Ken Bingenheimer

mostly volunteers. So if we keep everybody aware of it they are doing something.” Others are less strident. “To pay respect to my comrades, my brothers and sisters, who never got home,” says K.L. Hamilton, when asked why he makes the ride. Competitive Rides If you’re the competitive type you may be interested in the Motomarathon (http:// www.motomarathon.com/). Created two years ago with just one event, the Motomarathon has grown to include three events this year, one each in New England, Colorado, and northern California. Each event strings together four days of approximately 500 miles. Motomarathon creator John Metzger explains that every year he and some friends would take off on multi-day, multi-pass rides. He had ridden some marathons and was dissatisfied with the way they were structured so he created his own. He deliberately kept the Motomarathon simple: do the ride, hit the checkpoints in the proper sequence, document the checkpoint with a photo, and make it back to the staging area within the designated 24-hour period. That’s all. Or if you’re a more serious competitor, there is the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge (http://www.hokaheychallenge.com/). In the Motomarathon all you win is bragging rights. The Hoka Hey offers serious cash. In last year’s first ever event, the ride was about 7,000 miles and

paid the sole winner $500,000. It started in Key West and ended in Homer, AK. This year, on August 5, the Hoka Hey will start out from Phoenix and cross through all 48 contiguous states, before ending in Nova Scotia. It will cover more than 10,000 miles and the multiple winners this time are to divvy up an amount somewhat in excess of $500,000. While last year’s event was plagued with lack of communications and rumors of rip-offs, the organizers seem determined to straighten out those hassles and run a better show this year. Harley-Davidson has announced that it will be a major sponsor of the event, which would seem to give the organizers an added incentive to clean up their act. The Hoka Hey is limited to Harleys, so riders of other marques need not apply. One other ride, the Guts & Glory Rally (http://www.gutsandgloryrally.com/), had been announced, with an event very similar to the Hoka Hey. That event was so similar, in fact, that the Hoka Hey organizers brought suit to cancel the “copycat” event and succeeded in getting it at least postponed. Guts & Glory organizers say they intend to be back in 2012. All right. Not everyone wants to take a fun ride of 1,000 miles . . . today! Most of us wouldn’t even think of that as fun. But right now, out there on some road heading for the horizon, you can bet some long-distance rider is pursuing, ever pursuing, his dream. Each of us just has to ride our own ride. throttlermotorcyclemagazine 19

Vintage Motocross

Bringing the BRRRRRRRAP! By Sean Goulart Editor, www.MXNewsfeed.com, The #1 Rated Motocross Newsfeed

What is “Vintage Motocross”? Vintage motocross is a movement in the motorcycle racing community that encourages the preservation, restoration and racing of pre-1982 motocross and off-road bikes. Vintage motocross is a loose term used for older motocross machines, primarily twin shock and pre1982 bikes. Vintage motocross race enthusiasts are a meticulous bunch, with very rare machines being presented and raced in top running order at their events. The bikes are often spotless and priceless. The coolest thing is that they run these babies flat out with no regard for their inherent dollar value as most in the sport feel “they were meant to be raced”. When are bikes considered “Vintage”? Strictly speaking the cutoff for Vintage is 1974 according to the AHRMA rulebook, but there are specific exceptions. ACRMX has different classes and you will need to consult the appropriate website for the class details. Examples of AHRMA Vintage classes include Premier Lightweight (0-250cc), Classic 125 (88-125cc 2-stroke and 88 – 150cc 4-stroke), Sportsman 500 (325 to

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625cc) and Sportsman Open Twins (600cc and larger). Some of the historic makes and models you may expect to see in these classes include bikes like Triumph Tigers and Cubs, BSA A7’s, twin pipe CZ’s, Ducati 350/450’s, Matchless twins, square barreled Maico’s, CanAm TNT’s and early Japanese marques like the Hodaka Super Rat and Combat Wombat. Don’t be surprised to see all the modern makers represented like the Honda with the CR and CL series, Kawasaki’s KX’s, Suzuki’s ill-handling but ferociously fast TM’s and Yamaha’s DT’s and YZ’s. In the AHRMA there are also the highly popular Post-Vintage classes such as Historic, Gran Prix and Ultima that accommodate more modern MX machines. AHRMA Post-Vintage class examples include Historic 125 (88-125cc), Historic Four-Stroke (up to 636cc!), Gran Prix 500 (post-1977 motorcycles, 325500cc two-stroke and 580cc four-strokes) and Ultima (includes up to the 1982-84 Yamaha YZ250)! ACRMX is another vintage racing organization and has a different class structure which includes Vintage 80’s (Engine size 125cc-open, any bike made from 1980-1989), Evolution Open (201cc -

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open, air cooled, drum brake and nonlinkage suspension) and Pre-75 Mini Bike (max wheel size of 16”, 100cc max for 2-strokes & OHV 4-strokes). In short, almost all early off-road and motocross marques and models are eligible, and there are many different classes represented at each event, you just need to see what class(es) your bike fits in. Where can I see these machines in action? The major vintage motocross organizations include the AHRMA (American Historic Motorcycle Racing Association), ACRMX (American Classic Racing Motocross) and USVMX (US Vintage Motocross). All these organizations have events you can attend both as spectator and racer. Many other local promoters and racetracks have historic/vintage classes at their regular race events. You can find many of these resources online and all the organizations websites mentioned above have tons of information regarding events, classes and race dates, just see the end of this article for specifics. What do I need to join in?

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Vintage motocross is a loose term used for older motocross machines, primarily twin shock and pre-1982 bikes.

First off, you’ll need a bike to race and how do you find such a machine? Look for a 1982 or older motocross (or off-road bike) that fits your idea of fun to race and fits within the class you want to race in. Personally we prefer the lightweight machines, but racing a big twin in the dirt is a blast too. There are lots of these machines on eBay and CraigsList but you will need to enjoy wrenching on your own bikes because these machines need a bit more TLC than your modern machine. Many vintage MX enthusiasts own bikes that they may have owned when they were younger, and this just adds to their pride when racing and showing these mounts. How can I learn more? As the sport is growing in leaps and bounds, there are new events springing up all over the country. One incredible event where you can do everything including buying a vintage motocross mount and racing it is the AMA’s Vintage Motorcycle Days. This is an annual event where the nation’s best machines gather for a weekend of fun, bench racing, real racing and the largest motorcycle swap meet we’ve ever seen. Just go to americanmotorcyclist.com/ for all the information and tell them Throttler Magazine sent you. Below you will find some online resources to get you started on your vintage motocross adventure. Vintage Motocross Resources: AHMRA - http://www.ahrma.org ACRMX - http://www.acrmx.com USMVX - http://www.usvmx.com Vintage Factory - http://www.vintagefactory.com

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Email your event to scott@throttlermagazine.com Iowa - Bike Nights Monday’s Fireside Grill Tuesday’s Victory Lane Gathering at the Grounds Brooklyns Bike Nights

Aug 21 ChuckaPalooza 3 Biker Bash & Music Fest Sep 9 – 11 Chiggerfest Oct 6 – 8 HogRocktoberfest Wisconsin - Bike Nights Wednesday’s Quaker Steak & Lube

Altoona Des Moines Des Moines Ottumwa

Wednesday’s O’Kelly’s Pub Baxter Quaker Steak & Lube Council Bluffs Thursday’s Trophy’s Bar & Grill Des Moines Mullets Des Moines Screaming Eagle American Bar & Grill Waterloo Full Throttle Thursday’s @ BJ’s Bar & Billiards Waterloo Friday’s Knoxville Bike Night (1st Friday) Knoxville Throttle Down to “O” Town Osceola Fatboyz Saloon (2nd & 4th Friday) Grimes Bike Down to I-Town (3rd Friday) Indianola Saturday’s Booneville Bar Water Street Bar & Grill Iowa – Rally’s & Events Aug 13 AHeinz57 Pet Rescue &Transport’s Poker Run w/ Rescue Ink - @Big Barn H-D Aug 18 McGrath Powersports Bike Night Aug 26 – 27 Grinnell Hot Bike Night Aug 27 Route 65 HOG Chapter Fun Run Sep 9 – 10 Classic Flat-Track & AMA Grand Nat’l Champ Sep 9 – 11 Davis Motorcycle Rally Sep 16 – 18 End of Summer Rally Oct 1 Fall Open House @ Hawkeye H-D

Boonville Cambridge

Cedar Rapids Grinnell Indianola Knoxville New Hampton Keosauqua Coralville

Minneapolis Minneapolis Plymouth Brooklyn Park Isanti

Minnesota - Rally’s & Events Aug 27 Red Nights M/C Benefit Sep 2 – 4 Max’s Bash – 27th Annual

Maple Grove Roosevelt

Illinois - Bike Nights Thursday’s Coziahr Harley-Davidson Bike Night

Forsyth

Culver’s Bourbonnais Weekly Bike Night Texas Roadhouse Tinley Park Bike Night (2nd & 4th Sunday)

Illinois - Rally’s & Events Aug 5 – 7 Fulton County Rodeo Aug 19 – 21 NA40+ International Rally Aug 20 Chi-Town H-D Annual Bash

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Madison

Thursday’s Harley-Davidson Museum Bike Night House of Harley Ride to Bike Night “Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Education Center” Benefit Bike Nights @ Floodzone Bar & Grill Bike Night @ Motor Bar & Restaurant Wisconsin - Rally’s & Events Sep 1 – 4 Milwaukee Rally Sep 2 – 4 The Great American Bike Rally Sep 14 – 18 Tomahawk Fall Rally Oct 1 Hogtoberfest

Milwaukee Greenfield

Milwaukee Eagle Tomahawk Peshtigo

Nebraska - Rally’s & Events Aug 27 – 28 Blue River Motorcycle Rally

Seward

Missouri - Bike Nights Monday’s Schlafly’s Bottleworks

Maplewood

Thursday’s

Show-Me’s Sportbike Night Thunder Thursdays (Every 3rd Thursday)

St Charles St. Charles

Saturday’s

Big St. Charles Motorsports Bike Night Marshfield Downtown Bike Night (Every 2nd Saturday)

St. Charles Marshfield

Rock Springs Milwaukee

Des Moines

Minnesota - Bike Nights Wednesday’s Two Wheel Wednesday @ Yarusso’s (Every 1st Wed.) The Joint Bar (Every 2nd Wed.) Thursday’s Duluno’s Pizza (Every 1st Thur.) Cowboy-Up Bike Night (Every 2nd Thurs.) Mad Jacks Sports Bar (Every 3rd Thurs.) Friday’s Captains Thursday Bike Night

Sunday’s

Roselle McLean Cave in Rock

St. Paul

Bourbonnais Tinley Park

Lewistown Springfield Tinley Par

Missouri - Rally’s & Events Aug 13 Gypsy Rendezvous Ride @ Gateway H-D Aug 19 – 20 Bikers & Babes at the Beach Aug 25 – 27 State HOG Rally Sep 15 – 18 Lake of the Ozarks Bikefest Sep 18 Moolah Shriner’s Ride @ Gateway H-D Sep 24` Free Motorcycle Giveaway @ Gateway H-D Oct 22 Homebrew Competition @ Gateway H-D Nov 5 Veteran’s Day Motorcycle Raffle for the USO of Missouri @ Gateway H-D

St. Louis Rockaway Beach Osage Beach Lake Ozar St. Louis St. Louis St. Louis St. Louis

Kansas - Bike Nights Thursday’s Old Town Bike Night @ Emerson Biggins’ Alefs H-D Bike Night Kansas - Rally’s & Events Aug 12 – 21 Life Support Rally Aug 19 – 20 Thunder on the Plains Sep 23 – 25 Big Bend Bike Rally

Lawrence Dodge City Great Bend

South Dakota - Rally’s & Events Aug 5 – 14 Mount Rushmore Rally Aug 5 – 13 Midget Bowling @ the Buffalo Chip Aug 8 – 14 Sturgis Rally & Races

Keystone Sturgis Sturgis

Wichita Wichita

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