Harley-Davidson of Washington, DC The Official Rolling Thunder Reunion Location for 30 years!
SATURDAY, MAY 27 OFFICAL H.O.G. PIN STOP
THE OFFICIAL ROLLING THUNDER OPEN HOUSE 8 am to 8 pm
• Free Concert featuring Rockie Lynne and American Bombshells Patriotic Services • Tributes by Rolling Thunder® Inc. National Executive Director Artie Muller and other Rolling Thunder and Harley-Davidson VIP’s • Free BBQ served at noon • High School Drill Team and much more
Rockie Lynne
SUNDAY, MAY 28 WEDNESDAY, MAY 24
ROLLING THUNDER KICKOFF 10 am to 7 pm Tiki Bar • Food Trucks • Cigars Professional Detailer on site • Raffle for Prizes every hour between 12 pm and 4 pm
YELLOW RIBBON RIDE 7 am to 5 pm
• Free Coffee and Donuts • Police Rodeo • High school Color Guard • Police Escorted Ride to the Pentagon KSU 9 am Artie Muller
MONDAY, MAY 29
THURSDAY, MAY 25 ROLLING THUNDER BIKE NIGHT
6 pm to 9 pm Music • Food Trucks • Tiki Bar Bike Show • Cigars • Spin the wheel
FRIDAY, MAY 26 FREEDOM FRIDAY
10 am to 7 pm DJ Rebel One • Bikini Bike Wash • Tiki Bar • Food Trucks • Police Escorted Ride to the Candlelight Vigil at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial will depart the dealership at 6 pm
50+ VENDORS Wednesday-Saturday
*FREE*
MULTI-PONT SERVICE INSPECTION WHILE YOU WAIT WEDNESDAY thru FRIDAY
Memorial Day
TUESDAY, MAY 30 RAFFLE DRAWING by Artie Muller at 2pm •Enter to win 2017 Harley-Davidson FLHTK Electra Glide Ultra Limited
1 Ticket $10
OFFICAL EVENT T-SHIRTS FOR SALE!
Donation
HOST HOTEL Red Roof PLUS+ • Washington, DC - Oxon Hill To reserve a room, please call 1-800-733-7663. Block Code is B181HARLEY
5 $plu2 s taxes T-Shirts sold in Black and White OFFICIAL SPONSORS
9407 Livingston Road • Ford Washington, MD
301-248-1200
WWW.HDWASH.COM
Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic 4157 Mountain Road #233 Pasadena, Maryland 21122 www.ThunderRoadsMidAtlantic.com
Big City’s Two-Wheel Testament..................................6 Across The Pond............................................................8
Facebook – Thunder Roads Mid-Atlantic Twitter- TR_BigCity Instagram- ThunderRoadsMid-Atlantic EDITOR / OWNER / PUBLISHER
Mike “Rhino” Ryan 443-875-7482 Rhino@BigCityRhino.com Mike ”Bighead” Abbott 443-875-7597 Bighead@BigCityRhino.com
MARKETING SPECIALISTS JB 410-459-2443 jb@bigcityrhino.com (Northern Baltimore/Delaware)
Tonya Harding 703-314-5200 Tonya@BigCityRhino.com (Virginia Sales Crew) David “Mongo” Robinson RAZZ 240-855-4705 571-319-7534 Mongo@BigCityRhino.com Razz@BigCityRhino.com (Big City Ride Card Manager) (Western MD / WV Crew)
Lauren Koehn 443-975-4323 LaurenK@Bigcityrhino.com (Southern MD Sales Crew)
Suzanne Otwell 334-663-2403 Suzanne@BigCityRhino.com (Virginia Sales Crew) LAYOUT & DESIGN Meredith Hancock Hancock Graphics CONTRIBUTORS Preacher Gordon Bacon “Two Wheel Testament” Joyce “Biker Chic” Leon Brittain “Throttle Life” Andy Tallone “Across the Pond”
Diary of a Biker Chic.................................................. 13 Motorcycle Rights Organizations.............................. 15 AMA Report................................................................. 16 Road Captain’s Report.............................................. 22 BRAPP......................................................................... 27 Center Calendar......................................................... 30 Featured Bike............................................................. 32 Big City Rhino Challenge........................................... 36 BRAPP......................................................................... 41 Bullet Points................................................................ 43 Rider Tips: Group Riding Part I................................. 46 News Bytes................................................................. 50 Events.......................................................................... 54 Joker’s Wild................................................................. 57 Biker Friendly Directory............................................. 58 Need To Know............................................................ 60
Marc Ritchie & Rose Grant “Road Captain’s Report”
Jim Bull “Brappmag.com” Off-Road/Racing Editor (717-951-5620) DISTRIBUTION Suzy “Carebear” Leighton Mike “Smiles” Johnson David “Barney” Barnhouse NATIONAL FOUNDERS Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon 1528 Matlock Drive, Chapmansboro, TN. 37035 Office: (615) 792-0040 Fax: (615) 792-7580 thunderroadsfounders@yahoo.com
ON THE COVER: Model Brave Men and Women Serving our Country Photography: Mike “Bighead” Abbott
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OCCUPIED BY THE ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LIABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PERSON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND CLAIMS MADE BY ADVERTISERS AND AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN, AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE POLICY OF THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES NOT PROMOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.
M
AY IS THE MONTH for remembering all the Brave Men and Women we have lost in fighting for the freedom of our Country and others. A lot of you will make the trip down to DC for the Rolling Thunder Event this year, and you should. It has been a great event for many years now. I only ask that you also remember the next generation of Men and Women that had laid their lives down for you as well. The United States of America has been and always will be one of the most powerful Militaries in the world. Because of this, we are called upon to make right the wrongs of other countries, groups, and individuals on foreign soil around the world. This is only possible due to the Brave Men and Women who serve. So, while we remember the ones we have lost, let’s remember to also Thank the ones who still wake up every morning to protect our way of life. Also, be sure to follow us on our website for all the upcoming local events. www.thunderroadsmidatlantic. com. We have all the information you will need to plan your season as we update our calendars weekly with new rides and rallies. Please feel free to submit your event to be listed on the site as well free of charge. Just go to the web page events tab and click the submit your event tab. We will get it up on the site asap. We would also like to invite all of you to join us this year, as we will be hosting Rolling Bike Nights
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throughout the Mid-Atlantic. We have already started in April, and are looking forward to the rest of the season. So now you all have a personal invite and another reason to get out and ride. Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic Rolling Bike Nights is sponsored by Rider Insurance. If you have not gotten a quote from Rider Insurance, then you are losing money. www.Rider.com Every month we bring top notch content and this month is no different. Follow the Road Captain as he makes his way to the Crabtree Falls, and Andy from www.Classic-British-Motorcycles.com has coverage of The Last Clubmans Show, and once again Preacher Gordon Bacon spreading the good word each month as well as several other great features. So be sure to follow us on line at www.ThunderRoadsMidAtlantic. com where you can find everything that matters in the motorcycle community for the Mid-Atlantic area. The Road Crew here at Thunder Roads® MidAtlantic, also work very hard at keeping you up to date with all the local events happening in your area. So, remember to submit your events and photos to BigCity@BigCityRhino.com. Not only do we cover them, but you will see us out and about more than any of our competitors. Living the Lifestyle, NOT just selling It! L&R, Rhino & Bighead
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The Dragon Roars...
June 9-11, 2017 • Tazewell, Virginia • Bill Dixon 5 Time Champion • Monster Freestyle MX Show • Kaitlyn Baker & Outshyne • Bike & Car Shows • Kids Area • Vendors • Craft Beer Garden • Demolition Derby
Thunder Roads®Mid-Atlantic
• Dragon Master Ride • Friday Night Kick Off Celebration
MAY 2017 5
A Memorial Day Prayer For Our Soldiers the rest of their life, having the use of one or more of their limbs taken from them. Scores have been mentally disabled resulting in them being unable to handle day to day living. And thousands upon thousands have given the ultimate sacrifice, their life, so that we can continue to enjoy our lives living safely in a land of freedom.
My God Who Gave His Only Son, To Shed His Blood For All Mankind. Give Strength To All The Loving Ones, Who Give Their Sons To Keep Our Land Free. Your Faithful Men And Women, Venture Near And Far. We Call Upon Your Mercy, No Matter Where They Are. Keep Them Safe, One And All, On Land, In Air, On Sea. And While We Know Some Will Not Return, Give Us Strength To Accept Their Destiny. And To The Men That Have Fallen, Give A Special Place Of Grace In Eternity. And Help Me Lord To Never Forget, The Price They Paid For Our Great County.
Memorial Day is a day that is set aside to remember, and honor, our brave soldiers who have given their lives to protect our land and keep us free. It began as a day to honor our Civil War dead, but after World War I, it was expanded to include those who died from all the wars in which America was involved. Our country has fought in 12 wars (not counting the Afghanistan War which brings the updated total to 13.) In every one of these cases, we have asked the young people of our nation to be willing to give their lives in the name of freedom (for us and others in foreign lands.) The sacrifices these young men and women have made can never be totally comprehended nor can they be repaid by us. Just stop and think about a little of what these wonderful young people have given up for us. At the very least, they have given years of their life, time away from their families, to serve their country which they love. They have given us any chance of setting down “roots”, having to move from base to base once every 3 to 4 years. Many will be physically disabled 6
(1 John 4:7-12). Dear friends, we should love each other, because love comes from God. Everyone who loves has become God’s child. And so everyone who loves knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love to us: He sent his only Son into the world to give us life through him. True love is God’s love for us, not our love for God. He sent his Son as the way to take away our sins. That is how much God loved us, dear friends! So we also must love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us. If we love each other, God’s love has reached its goal—it is made perfect in us. We can never begin to understand what they went through, and are continuing to go through, all because they love their nation and the freedoms we take for granted everyday. We can never begin to repay them and their families for the sacrifices they have made for us. It seems as if saying “Thank You” just isn’t enough.
MAY 2017
Memorial Day Blessings To All Who Served and Protected Our Nation
Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic
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thank you for your service
Michael D. Anderson, USAF, MSgt (E-7), 1971-1993
MAY 2017 7
FROM ACROSS THE POND
1959 A10 Rocket 650 twin. This was BSA in her prime.
“THE LAST CLUBMANS SHOW”
The BSA Owners Club of Northern California (BSAOCNC.org) is the largest Brit bike OC in the Bay Area, and despite the name, welcomes fans of all British marques. I ride a Triumph myself and have always been welcome. In fact, when my Triumph is down, I ride my ʼ08 H-D Dyna and theyʼre still cool with it. The BSAOCNC is very active and organizes one ride every month, all year long, rain or shine. Some of the great one-day rides are in places like the Pacific Coast, the Napa Wine Country, the Mother Lode, the Sacramento River Delta and the Sierra Nevadas. Great rides, and great people. Iʼve been on many rides with them and itʼs always good. The Clubmanʼs All-British Weekend has traditionally been their premier event for the year, and has required great focus and dedication on the part of a tight cadre of stalwarts, along with a small army of volunteers, including judges (thatʼs where I slipped in).
BY ANDY TALLONE Classic-British-Motorcycles.com
85 British bikes all under one roof. For the last 30 years, a scrappy band of British bike nuts have put on an all-British motorcycle show and ride in the San Francisco Bay Area called “The Clubmanʼs All-British Weekend”. Held indoors at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds in San Jose on the last weekend in March every year, the Clubman usually attracted 100 to 150 classic British motorcycles to compete in a wide variety of classes, judged by experts (Iʼve been a judge myself several times), with a trophy presentation at the end. There were also vendors, a swap meet and bike corral, and several of the British motorcycle clubs (calls “OCʼs”, short for Owners’ Clubs, each dedicated to one brand, or marque) had booths there with bikes from their chosen marque on display. And, as a key part of the Clubman Tradition, a classic British motorcycle was raffled off. And that’s just the’showʼ-part of the Clubmanʼs All-British Weekend, on Saturday. The next morning, on Sunday, is the ‘Morning After RIdeʼ, where throngs of classic Brit bikes gather in downtown Los Gatos to take an incredible ride through the Santa Cruz Mountains and out to the Pacific. What a weekend!
The Velocette Owners Club had a nice display of bikes. 8
This 1972 Triumph Bonneville is restored to better-than-new condition. And it won its class. Then, after that Herculean effort, the Club cools down the following day on the Morning After Ride. 100+ British bikes (and a few non-believers on other brands) of all types, ages, sizes and conditions show up in picturesque downtown Los Gatos to make this annual ride together. Most are fairly modern Brit road bikes, 60s- and 70s-era Triumph Bonnevilles, BSA 650s, Norton Commandos and the like. There are a few modern Triumphs. Then thereʼs a mixed bag of everything else you can imagine, and some that you canʼt. Some of these bikes are true antiques and barely roadworthy. But they make the trek the best they can anyway...putt-putt-putt-putt... You have to admire their pluck to be willing to brave the roads and modern traffic, riding their ancient machines the way they were meant to be ridden. Wonderful to think about, but you don’t want to end up behind one of these old-timers, especially uphill. The rides are always great, winding through redwood forests, past fields of flowers, rolling hills, green grass, then you break out onto the Pacific Ocean. You can smell the salt in the air just before
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you actually see it. Then the ride progresses along Highway 1 to a point where, after lunch, it veers inland again for another fantastic ride through the hills, and back to Los Gatos.
and talk to you and look in your eyes like he really cares about what youʼre saying at that moment. Hard to find in celebrities, these days. He brought a bunch of his riding buddies with him this year and they all brought their British-engined flat trackers. Eddie brought a few of his own personal bikes. And as always, at the end of the show, with toothpick firmly in mouth, he presented all the trophies to the winners and their bikes in the various classes. Winning a trophy at the Clubman means something to anyone who knows Brit bikes, at least on the West Coast, and can add value to the bike.
This 1946 Indian Chief is powered by a Vincent 998cc Rapide V-twin. A few factory prototypes were built, but this could be a private effort. This year, the Clubman All-British Weekend was on Saturday and Sunday, March 25 and 26, 2017, with the ʻshowʼ-part of it at the Fairgrounds in San Jose on Saturday, as usual. Because of threatening showers, the number of bikes was down to around 85 and attendance was light, despite being an indoor show. It certainly wasnʼt due to the ticket price, which has been only five bucks since they started 30 years ago. But as always, it was well-organized and presented, and the bikes were widely varied, in many ways. Varied in age, in type, in brand of course, and in condition. The thing about shows like the Clubman is that theyʼre put on by people who obsess over the details of these bikes, and many attendees are the same way. They care less about how shiny and pretty it is than they do about checking out that factorycorrect coil mount and what type of bolt the factory used. Some of the bikes at the Clubman this year were what you might call ‹unmolested survivorsʼ, maybe even barn finds. And of course, some were restored to better-than-new. And everything in between. Street bikes, dirt bikes, race bikes, flat trackers, choppers, bobbers, cafe racers, you name it.
Eddie Mulder awards the proud owner of this 1951 Norton International. Next up was the Raffle Bike. Every year, the BSAOCNC somehow finagles a classic Brit bike to raffle off for the benefit of the continued...
Eddie Mulder built this bike for a customer, who ran it at Pikes Peak. Motorcycle racing legend Eddie Mulder is a regular at the Clubman Shows, always seeming to show up just in time to present the trophies. Heʼs an amazing guy, and still loaded with energy, and a genuinely nice fellow. Heʼll take his time to stop Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic
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club (a not-for-profit organization). Itʼs usually either restored or a very nice original, or some mix of the two. This year, it was a drop-dead gorgeous 1970 Triumph 650 TR6. The bike has been displayed at various club events and at Raberʼs (the ultimate classic Brit bike shop) in San Jose, over the year and raffle tickets had been on sale the whole time. Tickets are only a buck! Thatʼs right, one dollar. Of course, this creates a flurry, which reaches a crescendo at the Clubman Show in the last hour before the drawing. I bought my usual 10 tickets. That should be enough, right? Some people bought big wads of tickets. The funny thing is that over the years, many a lucky winner has confessed to only buying one ticket. Who knows? Itʼs a raffle. This year, the winner wasnʼt present, so weʼll never know the answer to that one, but he gets the bike anyway. You donʼt have to be present to win. Lucky stiff!
Then the big announcement came, that many knew was coming. The leadership of the BSAOCNC announced that this would be the last Clubmanʼs All-British Weekend. The Fairgrounds is closing, so they lost their age-old venue, and this served as a trigger for ʻdecision-making timeʼ within the club. The inner circle of members who had been putting out the effort every year were now getting older and saw this as a good time to call it quits. And ending on a nice round number like the 30th Anniversary wasnʼt bad either. Of course, the BSAOCNC will continue on as always, organizing great club rides all year long, they just wonʼt be putting on the Clubman any longer. And theyʼll have to rename the Morning After Ride, since that was their March ride. However, there are already rumblings within and outside the club to continue the Clubman Show at a new venue and with a new format next year and hopefully into the future. As good as it was, the Clubman Show never garnered the kind of media attention or attendance that it deserved, and failed to reach out beyond its own membership. It is hoped that any new Clubman Show would expose these wonderful, historic machines to many, many more people, in search of the next generation of classic Brit bike enthusiasts who are so sorely needed right now.
For more like this, please visit my website www.Classic-British-Motorcycles.com A winner is drawn for this lovely 1970 Triumph 650. Tickets were just $1.00!
65th
2017 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Sat-Sun May 6, Vintage May 7, Modern
Observed Trials - 43rd anniversary Willie Gall Memorial
Sun June 4 AMA PRO RACING HILL CLIMB 12:30 PM - Rain or shine Fri-Sun June 9, 10, 11
6th Annual WRMC SUPER SWAP MEET All motorcycle, car, & Truck enthusiasts welcome
Fri-Sun 29th annual vintage Japanese Aug 18, 19, 20 Motorcycle meet & Bike show
NO PETS - NO DOGS - Beer Limit one 6-pack Visit www.whiterosemc.org for more 10
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thank you for your service
Alisa L. Spells, US Army, Sgt. (E-5), 1987-1989
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BY JOYCE ELAINE
DIARY OF A BIKER CHIC
March 16, 2017 A lot of times when you are out on the bike, you come across other bikers and have some pretty good conversations with the total stranger who know feels like a “brother” or “sister.” That’s what happens when you are a biker, as we all know. However, sometimes, you come across bikers when you are not even riding. For example, I serve tables part-time in the evening and every once in a while, someone will come in wearing motorcycle gear and sometimes, I’m lucky enough to be the one to serve them. Tonight at work, that happened, but it became more than my normal conversation. It was a married couple, Janelle and Kelvin, and they were both wearing Harley Davidson jackets. So, I did what I always do when I see something like that – I asked them if they ride. They told me they did so I did the next thing that I always do in this position – I asked them if they have heard of Thunder Roads Magazine. Usually I get one of two responses: “yes” or “no, what is that?” Their response was a yes but they gave me more than that. Janelle told me that she has read the magazine but she doesn’t like it. I was surprised as I had never heard this before…like ever! So, I asked her why. Janelle and Kelvin are African American and Janelle told me that she doesn’t like the magazine because there is no portrayal of African Americans and there is no diversity. Before I responded, I had to stop and think for a second. I mentally flipped through our magazine in my mind and realized that she was correct. And so began a pretty long conversation (so much so that I forgot about the other table I was supposed to be serving). Janelle told me that there really aren’t any magazines that portray diversity and the one’s that do, do not shine them in a very good light. I excused myself and messaged the owners of the magazine and told them what I had just experienced. I was immediately answered with the fact that they have been told that before and they are actually working on it. I shared the message with Janelle and Kelvin and from there, I got to hear many of their biking stories, when they like to ride, where they ride to, and they even told me of some African American motorcycle events that I had never even heard of. The thing that really kept me listening was how Janelle presented her problem with the magazine. She didn’t scream or yell and cuss at me, she very firmly but very respectfully told me how she felt and when you speak to me with respect, I will listen. Could you imagine how great the world would be if we all presented our problems like that? I could have pulled up a chair and talked to these two all night. I didn’t see skin color while conversing with them – I saw two more people who have a love for motorcycles and not just a love, but a passion. Janelle rides her own too so maybe that’s why I felt a stronger connection with them. Janelle gave me her business card so that we could keep in touch and maybe get together for a ride. I also told them I was going to write about them in my next article, so I took a picture of them. Just looking at them in the photo I took, you can tell that they are just two really good people and I was very honored to have been able to meet them. I decided to do a quick research on African American riders but, being a chic, I had to take it a step further. In my research, I learned about “The Motorcycle Queen of Miami.” Bessie B. Stringfield “BB” not only broke barriers for African American riders but also for Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic
female riders. In the 1930s and 1940s, she took 8 long-distance solo rides across the United States. Did you read that? Eight long distance rides in a span of a year…by herself! This is something I could very well see myself doing some day. She was 16 years old when she mounted her first bike, a 1928 Indian Scout. She had no idea what she was doing, had no training or instruction, but she picked it up with an ease that proved she was a natural. She owned a total of 27 Harley’s in her lifetime! When she was 19, she began tossing a penny over a map and wherever that penny landed is where she rode to. I think this is something I may do in the future! She also did hill climbing and trick riding in carnival stunt shows! She would had trouble getting a place to stay because of the color of her skin. If she couldn’t find other “black folks” she would park her bike at gas stations and actually sleep on her bike! She would lay her jacket on the handle bars for a pillow and her feet would rest on the rear fender! I think I’d fall off in my sleep! She also dealt with racial prejudice while on the road. There was one time that a man in a pickup truck ran her off the road and knocked her off her bike. As if just being a black female rider wasn’t enough of an accomplishment back in those days, she also worked for the army as a civilian motorcycle dispatch rider during World War II. She was the only woman in her unit and she accomplished rigorous training maneuvers. She learned how to weave a makeshift bridge from ropes and tree limbs just to be able to cross a swamp…on her motorcycle! Could you imagine riding a bike across a bridge that is made out of ropes and tree limbs? Maybe that should be a new competition at the motorcycle festivals? She would carry documents between domestic bases! What a job! Her accomplishments don’t stop there either. In the 1950’s she became a licensed practical nurse and founded the Iron Horse Motorcycle Club. She also won a flat track race by disguising herself as a man! However, when she took off her helmet and her sex was revealed, she was denied the prize money. Let us not forget that she actually would ride while standing in the saddle of her Harley. This girl knew how to live, that’s for sure! She died in 1993 at the age of 82 as she suffered from symptoms caused by an enlarged heart. Her heart was three times the size it was supposed to be. The doctors wanted to stop her from riding but she told the doctor, “If I don’t ride, I won’t live long.” She had been quoted as saying, “I was somethin’! What I did was fun and I loved it!” I think maybe if we all lived our lives the way BB did, we may all die of an enlarged heart in our older years…I mean, isn’t that like saying you are bursting with happiness?! What an inspiration to not only female riders but African Americans as well. So with all this being said, please, if you know of any African American motorcycle events, please write in and let us know. If you do any rides, please share your stories with us! Who knows, we may find a new “BB” amongst us here in the Mid-Atlantic Area! As always thanks for reading and keep it rubber side down!
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• Make yourself visible. Choose riding gear that increases your visibility in traffic in addition to providing protection in the event of a crash. Use bright colors and retro-reflective strips or decals, especially at night. • Ride so you are seen. There is no one safe place to ride. Use lane positioning to be seen. Ride with your headlight on and consider using a modulating headlight. • Give yourself space and time to react. Allow space for emergency braking or for avoiding a crash. Make your lane moves gradually. • Signal your intentions. Signal before changing lanes. Avoid weaving between lanes. Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping. • Be courteous and respect other road users. Being courteous, non-aggressive and cooperative can go a long way in reducing crashes.
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MOTORCYCLE RIGHTS ORGANIZATIONS If you ride a motorcycle, you should be involved in one of these organizations. Stand up, Get involved, Be a Part of the Solution! Preserve your rights as a biker!
DELAWARE 61 B McMillan Way Newark, DE. 19713 Email: abateofde@aol.com www.abateofde.com
Email: abateofde@aol.com www.abateofde.com
Motorcycle Riders Foundation 1325 G Street NW Suite 500 Washington DC 20005 Email: mrfoffice@mrf.org www.mrf.org
MARYLAND ABATE of Maryland, Inc. 71 Franklin Street Annapolis, MD. 21401 Email: info@abateofmd.com www.abateofmd.org
thank you for your service
Charles Darby, US Army, Spc. (E-4), 1985-1992 Thunder Roads®Mid-Atlantic
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REPORT American Motorcyclist Association thanks Sens. Joni Ernst and Gary Peters for forming Motorcycle Caucus Bipartisan effort to advocate for motorcycling issues PICKERINGTON, Ohio – The American Motorcyclist Association extends its appreciation to U.S. Sens. Joni Ernst and Gary Peters for establishing the first Senate Motorcycle Caucus.
riders and manufacturers through my new role as co-chair of the Motorcycle Caucus. “Throughout my 99 county tour of Iowa, I have heard from many of these folks about some of their priorities, including improving safety, infrastructure and energy efficiency. These concerns are shared by folks across our great state and country, and I look forward to working with Sen. Peters toward solutions.”
Ernst (R-Iowa) and Peters (D-Mich.)— both lifelong motorcyclists—will serve as co-chairs of the caucus, which will advocate on behalf of both motorcycle riders and manufacturers. “The AMA has long sought the establishment of a Senate Motorcycle Caucus, and we are happy that this bipartisan effort has come to fruition,” said Wayne Allard, AMA vice president of government relations. “We look forward to working with the members of this caucus on all the issues affecting the motorcycle lifestyle and the future of motorcycling.”
Peters bought his first motorcycle at age 11.
Ernst said her concern for motorcycles and motorcyclists started when she was a child. “Some of my most cherished memories include motorcycles, from delivering messages as a young girl to my dad while he was working out in the fields, to riding through the rolling hills of Northeast Iowa with family and friends,” Ernst said. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to encourage thoughtful discussion and solutions on behalf of motorcycle
swap meet wall of death bike shows
concerts beer garden classic clubs pitbike races vendors motocross
“I’ve loved motorcycles since I was a kid, and I started a newspaper route to buy my first motorcycle at age 11. To this day, I believe there is no better way to see Michigan’s beautiful scenery than by bike, whether I’m riding to meet with constituents and small businesses or taking my bike out on the weekend,” Peters said. “Motorcyclists come from all walks of life, and I can’t think of a better way to bring together a diverse and dedicated group of advocates to discuss everything from safety concerns to manufacturing. I’m looking forward to working with Sen. Ernst as co-chair of the bipartisan Senate Motorcycle Caucus to foster these important discussions and find common ground with motorcycle lovers across the country.”
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American Motorcyclist Association announces 2016 AMA Member Sweepstakes winner
American Motorcyclist Association honors U.S. Rep. Paul A. Gosar AMA Hero recognition goes to a federal legislator who supports motorcycling
Troy Clark wins 2016 Suzuki GSX-S1000 ABS PICKERINGTON, Ohio - Motorcyclists already know that being a member of the American Motorcyclist Association comes with benefits. For one lucky member, one of those benefits was winning a new motorcycle. The AMA announced today that five-year AMA member Troy Clark of Littleton, Colo., won a 2016 Suzuki GSX-S1000 ABS in the 2016 AMA Member Sweepstakes. “I’m shocked,” Clark said. “This kind of stuff doesn’t happen to me. I have been an off-road rider, but have wanted to get a street bike for a while, so I’m really excited.” Anyone who joined or renewed a membership with the AMA between January 2016 and December 2016 was automatically entered into the 2016 AMA Member Sweepstakes.The Suzuki GSX-S1000 was one of two bikes up for grabs in the 2016 AMA Member Sweepstakes. Motorcyclists who join or renew a membership from Jan. 1, 2017, through Dec. 31, 2017, are automatically entered for a chance to win more than 100 prizes in the 2017 AMA Member Sweepstakes. Grand prizes are two more motorcycles, including a 2016 Suzuki GSX-S750. The 2017 AMA Member Sweepstakes includes prizes from Yamaha, AMAgear.com, Dowco, Liberty Sport, Scala Rider, Tourmaster, Cortech, and Shark Kage.
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To learn more about the sweepstakes, visit www. americanmotorcyclist.com/For-Members/MemberSweepstakes.
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PICKERINGTON, Ohio – Arizona Congressman Paul A. Gosar has earned the AMA Hero Award, presented by the American Motorcyclist Association for his support of motorcyclists’ rights and issues of importance to motorcycling. The award was presented March 24 at the Washington, D.C., office of the American Motorcyclist Association. Gosar, a Republican from Prescott, Ariz., was the only member of the 114th Congress to achieve a 100 percent score on motorcycling issues, including co-sponsorships for key bills and a vote. “Rep. Gosar demonstrated an interest in and support for the issues that most directly affect the motorcycling community, and we take great pleasure in honoring him for his efforts,” said Wayne Allard, AMA vice president for government relations. “The AMA appreciates federal legislators who support America’s motorcyclists and the freedom to ride.” First elected in 2010, Gosar is serving his fourth term in Congress representing Arizona’s Fourth Congressional District.
nth, o m r e p 9 .0 4 $ t s ju For you can join an organization that fights for motorcyclists' rights!
(800) AMA-JOIN
AmericanMotorcyclist.com /AmericanMotorcyclist /AMA_Riding
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thank you for your service
presents
SPONSORED BY
Kirk Towner, USN, CPO (E-7), 1984-2005 THE SCUTTLEBUTT 12320 Neale sound dr. Cobb island, Maryland
A QUAINT LITTLE DRINKING VILLAGE WITHA BIG FISHING PROBLEM
Waterfront Bar and grill Biker Owned and Operated
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 240-233-3113
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LOCATION Cactus Flats Frederick, MD 301-898-3085 Paddys Steakhouse Stafford, VA 540-657-4900 Backseat Bar and Grill Winchester, VA 540-665-9033 Port Vape And Brew Port Deposit, MD 410-652-9223 Sports Zone Smyna, DE High Tides Colonial Beach, VA 804-224-8433 Big Falls Inn White Marsh, MD 410-256-2500 Damon & Company Gloucester, VA 804-693-7218 Tom’s Bullpen Dover, DE Back Yard Grill Chantilly VA 703-802-6400
DATE AND TIME DAY May 11th 7pm - 10pm Thurs May 25th 7pm - 10pm June 7th 7pm -10pm
Thurs Weds
June 22nd 7pm - 10pm Thurs July 6th 7pm - 10pm
Thurs
July 27th 7pm - 10pm
Thurs
Aug 17th 7pm-10pm
Thurs
Aug 31st 7pm-10pm
Thurs
Sept 11th 7pm- 10pm
Mon
Sept 28th 7pm- 10pm
Thurs
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Braxton County, WV is the ideal place to start motorcycle tours in West Virginia. Nearly all the best scenic rides in the state can begin here, from two hour loops to two and three day trips. Braxton offers many motorcycle friendly choices in accommodations, restaurants, and fuel, not to mention its own gems to discover including, the Sutton and Burnsville Lakes, two water trails, and the Flatwoods Monster. Call, click, or visit today to learn more!
BraxtonWV.org/Thunder (304)765-6533 info@braxtonwv.org Thunder RoadsÂŽMid-Atlantic
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t had been a rainy week ROAD kicking off April. Rose and CAPTAIN’S I could hear the stream in REPORT our back yard from inside the house. I sent our good friend, Henry Jordan, a text, inviting him to ride with us in the morning. We wanted to see a waterfall. Coincidentally, he was already planning a ride along much of the same route as ours. Great minds think alike:) We met in Head Waters the next morning. In tow, were Richard “Mac” Mcelwee, and his son Corey. They had met Henry in Monterey earlier. Corey was a popsicle, having ridden all the way from a 32 degree Covington on his Low Rider. The day, however, was promising to be a gem, with sunny skies and temps in the upper seventies. We stopped at the Mountainview General Store in West Augusta for gas. They have ethanol free high test. And for anyone heading west, it’s a good place to grab or pack a sandwich, for the seemingly endless mountains ahead. We emerged in Waynesboro from the north, following the scenic roads in the valley between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. Bikes were everywhere as if it was “opening day” for riding season. Scooter Nation was also in full swing. A short hop up 250 and we were on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Tremonti’s “The Things I’ve Seen”, and Rush’s “The Pass”, played back to back, compelling a volume adjustment on the audio system. We stopped at the Roost
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of All Ravens Overlook for a group pic. Elliot Knob was clearly visible across the valley, as the bright sunshine breached the thin layer of cirrus clouds high above. We continued down Old Blue, passing the Skylark Nature Preserve and Lodge. It’s a very distinctive and scenic landmark, which always summons the sense of adventure and excitement I had on a trip, when I saw if for the first time. Opting to stay straight instead of the shorter route that turned out to be gravel, we continued to Rt. 56 for our easterly approach. We passed by the Montebello Fishing Pond. It was after 1PM, and families were surrounding it with their kids, anxiously awaiting a catch. IMHO, this is one of the most technically challenging roads in VA. Even on its best days, there is usually gravel in many of the turns. And fourth gear is a bit of a rarity
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Ravens Roost Overlook Rose and I Corey Mac and Henry at the Falls
at times. Throw in a busy Sunday afternoon, and the clearly marked centerline is consistently violated like an airline passenger on an overbooked flight.
We arrived at the entrance to Crabtree Falls. There is a $3 fee with envelopes at the unmanned access point. Both parking areas were full, but we managed to squeeze between some cars in the grass. It was a short walk to the bottom of the falls, which did not disappoint, with all the rain we had. It’s been described as one of the “most beautiful” waterfalls in Virginia. The water plunges 1080 feet, in a series of falls, from Crabtree Creek to the Tyre River below. There’s lots of hiking trails with other things to see like Spy Rock. Anyone interested in base camping will find an RV site nearby as well as cabins for rent. http:// www.crabtreefallscampground.com/ has more info. We all opted to hike up to the second viewing area before we left. It was almost 80 degrees. Rose and I were parched. We stowed our riding pants in the tour pack before hoping back on the parkway. All of us enjoyed a traffic free ride, and stunning views, as we approached Buena Vista for a fuel stop. The descent down Rt. 60 was pretty stellar as well. It was well after 3PM. With all the stops and all the hiking, we were some kinda hungry. It was a good thing we stopped at the Pink Cadillac Diner. It’s a cool place to eat while stepping back in time. We enjoyed checking out the 50’s era memorabilia and decor, From Our Table at the Diner while songs immortalized, played over the jukebox. Even this late, the place was nearly full. But the excellent and friendly service, paired with the ensuing food coma, had me fat, dumb, and happy in Pink Cadillac Diner Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic
Ravens Roost and Mt Torrey Rd Below
no time. I think there might have been others as well. On our way home, we took some more back roads to Lake RobertBackroads son: a scenic, 31-acre to Lake impoundment tucked in Robertson the Allegheny Mountains of western Rockbridge County. There’s a parking lot next to the boat ramp, which makes for Rose Catching a Hawk some nice pictures with the lake in the background, except when the road captain parks everyone in the shade. We all said our goodbye’s and remarked at what a great time we had. With all that we got to see and do, it was truly an extraordinary day. Rose and I bailed on another road to nowhere, ending up in a place called McDowell, before heading over one last mountain to a place called home: a place far, far away from red and yellow fast food signs. Most of us have heard it a thousand times: “Your stairway lies on the whispering wind.” I often wonder, if on some subconscious level, if the lure of our ancestors to the sea, was to experience the wind. Is the answer really there as the Bob Dylan song would also indicate? And is there any better way to experience this, than grabbing a handful of throttle on a machine with two wheels, on the open road? It’s as if being able to hear all the souls who’ve ever lived, softly speaking at the same time, saying the same thing, for anyone really listening. Perhaps, it’s what the old man on the dock, pointing to his chest, said to the Mechanic, in the movie whose title escapes me, “Follow what this tells you. It’s trying to tell you something. You’re homesick for a place you’ve never been.” Now, where to? Cheers and thanks for reading! Marc Ritchie a.k.a. The Road Captain Photos by Rose Grant
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FACES
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REC
Riding the old bikes is a blast and sometimes a challenge.
RACES
PROVIDING YOU THE BEST OFF-ROAD CONTENT IN THE PA & NJ REGION
AHRMA Mid Atlantic Sets Record at Round #1 By: BrappMag.com Rocket Raceway, Three Springs, Pa, April 9, 2017 The Potomac Vintage Riders opened their 2017 season at Rocket Raceway under sunny skies and warm temperatures. They say what a difference a year can make and they must know what they’re talking about this time. Series promoter Dave Kutskel announced at the riders meeting that last year at this opening round that there was still some snow on the ground and temps were in the teens at 8am to start the day. No matter, Mother Nature changed her tune this year and along with the great weather came 87 riders; some racing both the morning and afternoon race to set a record for this series that I think is in its fourth season.
20 Time Gold Medal winner Fred Hoess wins the afternoon race.
37 riders took off on the five mile course at Rocket for the morning vintage race. Brian Grove would take his Honda to a full minute win over series promoter Dave Kutskel followed by WER Suspension guru and former ISDE champ Drew Smith in third. The afternoon post vintage race would see 64 competitors line up with 20 time ISDE Gold Medal winner Fred Hoess beating the pack by over 7 minutes. I got to speak with Fred after the event and he is such a humble guy who has raced all over the world. Second and third place spots would round out the same as the morning race with Kutskel in second followed by Smith in third. This series consists of mostly harescramble rounds with a new Enduro Series being added this year. The day is divided into two race groups with a class designed for just about all skill levels and size bikes built before 1995. The vintage race in the morning for an hour on a closed wooded course then the post vintage and more skilled groups race in the afternoon for another hour. Many riders enter two bikes and race both time slots. No special memberships are needed other than AMA and the day is designed for fun and friendly competition. I’d recommend if you have an old bike sitting around the garage to blow the dust off of it and come out and have a good time. If not, maybe you should consider grabbing one and joining the fun. Like Fred Hoess said, half the fun is just keeping the old bikes going and banging around with your buddies on a weekend afternoon. Some events are Saturday and some are held on Sunday. You can find their full schedule on Facebook by searching AHRMA Mid Atlantic Vintage Racing and check out www.brappmag.com to see more Images from todays event on our photo page link.
Honda mount Brian Grove wins the morning vintage race.
The series grows every year, come join the fun.
There are two rounds in May with the first on May 7th in Reynoldsville, Pa and then again on May 21st in Harmony Grove, Pa. Grab a bike and come race or come on out for a fun day of spectating. You can also check out today’s full race results at: http://www.moto-tally.com/AHRMA-NA/Results.aspx
Find More Great Off-Road Action At BrappMag.com Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic
This old Yammie DT got around the woods pretty good. MAY 2017 27
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ROLLING THUNDER’S FLHTK Electra Glide Ultra Limited The 30th Anniversary Edition by Leon L. Brittain / Throttle Life
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rguably one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the nation and without a doubt, the largest motorcycle rally to thunder into the Nation’s Capital as we all know is the Rolling Thunder Ride for Freedom.
Rolling Thunder Inc., a non-profit organization whose mission is to publicize the POW-MIA issue and to educate the public with continued awareness of American Prisoners of War left behind set out on a mission to do just this 30 years ago and has grown to attracts hundreds of thousands from throughout the nation in support. To commemorate and honor this annual event, the organization raffles a new Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Limited with 100% of the proceeds directly benefiting American veterans, troops and their families. This year, the DMV’s own Mr. Raphael Proctor of Artistic Creations in Clinton, MD was selected out of many and contacted by National Executive Director, Sgt Artie Muller to turn a stock Ultra into a one of a kind work of art that would capture the essence and spirit of Rolling Thunder’s mission. Three emotionally moving renderings were submitted before the final patriotic design was selected to become a reality. This year’s theme features a stars and stripes livery of Old Glory with worn and ragged edges, but still ever-so proudly waving in action supported by battle scared riveted metal throughout the design with the paint tank paying a nod of respect to the iconic Easy Riders chopper. At the forefront of the design is the 30th Anniversary date, lettering and our symbolic image of freedom, the bald eagle majestically in flight, a feeling the lucky winner will 32
surely feel and cherish with this rolling tribute. “There is more than 45 hours of taping alone and close to 20 hours in air brushing and a total of approximately 120 hours in the bike, but every minute of painstaking detail was worthwhile to be part of this nationally recognized organization and playing my small contribution to support” Raphael said with pride. In close collaboration with Harley-Davidson of Washington the final pieces were assembled in-house with members from the service department contributing time and effort adding additional modifications in getting this one-of-a-kind commemorative machine show-room and delivery ready. Not only is this the 30th Anniversary for the Rolling Thunder Ride for Freedom, but this year also marks the 30th Anniversary and partnership with Harley-Davidson of Washington as Rolling Thunder’s dealership of choice which has further strengthened and grown in recent years. To celebrate this milestone, HarleyDavidson of Washington has a four day event-full schedule planned with an open invitation to all including a kick-off celebration, bike night, concerts, open house and of course the ride out from the dealership to Washington D.C. on Sunday May 28th for the Ride for Freedom demonstration. “We’re proud of the relationship we have with Rolling Thunder and being able to support those that gave their all.” says Marketing Manager Olga Kulibaba. Although there may be strong political differences throughout the years, the core of this annual thunderous pilgrimage into the Nation’s Capital remains the same. We Will Never Forget, and this year’s 30 Anniversary rolling tribute embodies that like no other.
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BIG CITY RHINO CHALLENGE PRESENTED BY THUNDER ROADS® MID-ATLANTIC The Challenge
Big City Rhino, LLC. is challenging you to get out and Ride. Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic, THE MAGAZINE THAT RIDES, has put this challenge together with our sponsor, Law Offices of Jay Irwin Block, LLC. This is a riding challenge like no other! It features prizes every month that you can earn by simply getting out on your bike and riding to the numerous riding destinations and events across the Mid-Atlantic area! The Way it Works
Each month Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic will announce a list of “check-in” stops. These stops are selected based upon the recommendations of our readers and confirmed by our Road Crew. Riders then ride to these locations and present their Big City Card in order to “check-in”. Once a Rider has checked-in, their card number is then entered into a drawing. Each month, Thunder Roads® MidAtlantic will randomly select a rider’s check-in from across the regional states for special prizes and incentives. Prizes are developed by both Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic and our sponsors - allowing for some exciting options. The prizes may include riding gear or accessories, gift certificates, rally passes, concert tickets, and many other prizes for the motorcycle enthusiast! Every check-in counts as an entry in the drawing; if you hit 40 stops in a month, you have twice as many chances of winning as someone that only hits 20. Anyone can win with any checkin, but your chances of winning will increase by the amount you ride! The more you ride, the more opportunities you will have to win! The dedicated rider trekking across the states has a greater chance of accumulating prizes; however, even the couple that can only get out a few days a month to ride can also win! That’s the goal of this program – to encourage everyone to get out and ride!
Stop Prizes
Every month the Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic staff will randomly select winners from the check-ins. Some prizes will be specific to, and usually sponsored by, the particular stop.
Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic
For instance, a leather shop may award a custom leather vest to someone visiting their store during the month of June. That would be a prize specific to that stop and only riders checking in at that location would be eligible for that prize. Other prizes will be state-wide, with everyone eligible to win checking in at any location!
Winners
If your check-in is drawn, Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic will post your card number in both the magazine and online. Riders will then have 45 days to claim their prizes. For state-wide prizes, winners will have the opportunity to select from a number of prize options. For instance, a rider might have the option of winning a Rally Package that includes accommodations and extras for attending the rally. If that rider isn’t able to take advantage of that prize, he/she may opt for an alternate available prize instead. nn Riders can check-in once a week at a particular stop (Monday - Sunday), for a maximum of 4 check-ins per month, not counting bonuses. nn Riders are able to win multiple prizes based upon the drawing of their check-ins. nn Some prize drawings are specific to check-ins only for that particular month, while others prizes are drawn from checkins all season long. nn ALL check-ins have the opportunity to qualify for end-of-theseason prizes!
IT’S REALLY THAT SIMPLE…
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HERE’S HOW YOU GET STARTED!
1. Get your Big City Card. 2. Find the list of stops each month from your Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic, the website (www. Thunderroadsmidatlantic.com), or Facebook 3. Ride out to these stops and show them your card. 4. Find your number published in any of the above listed locations and win! PLEASE NOTE - You can use your Big City Card indefinitely; all registrations carry over from year to year. Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic will also be registering riders for Big City Cards at specific events throughout the year as we distribute magazines. Key events, such as Rallies or Bike Nights may have a special booth for Big City Card registrations. In most cases, we will be offering bonus points both for those registering for the cards and those checking in with their previously issued cards at these stops. Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic will also be working with charities and various non-profit events to include them in the Stop schedule as well. This will be an easy means of encouraging participation and attracting riders from outside the local communities. In many cases, we will have specific prize drawings for those at these events. The Big City Cards will allow participants to easily and safely check in at all stops. Some Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic sponsors will also be offering discounts to readers that present the cards. Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic will be listing special discounts and offers in the magazine throughout the year as an added value to readers and means of encouraging our partners to offer these extra savings. PLEASE NOTE: Once you have received your BIG CITY CARD, you will not be asked to provide personal information or emails at any location for check-in. You simply enter your card number and date! This is not a “Chinese fire drill”, or “mad-dash” across the state. This is a Ride Challenge. It is intended to be meaningful for readers to discover new riding destinations while enjoying the ride there. In fact, we have designed the Challenge to encourage folks to break out of their local routes and trek to the furthest corners of the states.
Just Get Out and RIDE!
One of the really exciting aspects of the Big City Rhino Challenge is that it can be modified throughout the summer – if not the entire year. We will be adding and dropping stops each month. Readers will be able to nominate stops, and after we investigate them and agree that it’s suitable, they’ll be invited to join the run. Some stops will only run a few months, and possibly not consecutive. We can 36
also modify the run if it’s determined that it’s no longer suitable. We want to keep things exciting for you - the readers and riders on the run. We’re bikers and it’s all about the ride. We want to help create fun experiences for you and share some cool spots in our states. We also want to discover new spots, which is why we are encouraging everyone to nominate their favorite riding destinations.
If You Own A Business
As with the magazine itself, the Big City Challenge is presented through the support of our sponsors and partners all across the state. We have secured several key sponsorships already, but opportunities remain. If your business would like to get involved, this is a great way to promote yourself all across the states in a positive manner. Even if your organization is not a riding destination -you might become a sponsor for the tremendous promotional value it offers through the constant media attention it will receive. We also have a number of unique opportunities for branding – including being featured on contest motorcycles, jackets, shirts, and other opportunities. The exact number and nature of these options will be determined as details are finalized and as the promotion develops over the summer. Sponsors will ALWAYS have first priority in these placements.
Charities
Sponsors will also have the opportunity to team up with Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic to help promote various charity events across the states. The Big City Rhino Challenge is a great vehicle to help promote non-profit events in communities all across the state. With the support of regional and statewide sponsors - Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic can help promote these community events to a larger audience. Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic is involved in countless charitable events all across the states already; however, with the support of our sponsors, we will be able to assist even more. Partners can assist in the sponsorship of specific events, areas of concern (such as breast cancer, child abuse, or animal shelters), or other specific areas. For more information on sponsorship, please email us at Challenge@bigcityrhino.com Of course, one of the key components in this whole Challenge, second only to the riders themselves, is the stops. The Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic Road Crew has spent a lot of time collecting nominations and researching stops for the Challenge; but there are undoubtedly plenty of more stops out there. If you have a venue or event that you would like to get involved in the Challenge, please don’t hesitate to let us know about it. If it’s your place, we will get in touch shortly with more information on the run and what’s involved. If you are recommending a spot for someone else, we will reach out to them and let them know they have been nominated. If you can suggest a contact person, that can help expedite the process. You can send information to Challenge@bigcityrhino.com
The Challenge starts now! Pick up your card and hit some stops!
As we mentioned, this is a dynamic event, intended to be tweaked and developed over time. If you have ideas, suggestions, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to let us know. You can email us at Challenge@bigcityrhino.com
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PRESENTED BY THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE® MID-ATLANTIC
(More Locations will be added every month)
Sign Up for your card or Check-in at one of these locations:
CHECK-IN LOCATIONS
BIG CITY RHINO CHALLENGE
Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic
REGISTRATION & CHECK-IN LOCATIONS All American H-D
8126 Old Leonardtown RD. Hughesville, MD. 19901 301-274-5000
Monday -Friday 10 AM - 7 PM Saturday - 10 AM - 4 PM Sunday - 11 AM - 3 PM
Old Glory H-D
11800 Laurel Bowie Road, Laurel, MD 20708 301-575-0575 www.oldgloryhd.com
Monday -Friday 10 AM - 7 PM Saturday - 9 AM - 5 PM Sunday - 12 PM - 5 PM
Sunset Cycles
9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy #208, Ocean City, MD 21842 410-390-5105
Tuesday -Thursday 10 AM - 7 PM Friday 10 AM - 5 PM Saturday 10 AM - 3 PM Sunday - Monday - Closed
A to Z Cycles
1472 E. Lebanon Rd. Dover, DE 19901 302-632-2272 www.atozcycles.com
Tuesday -Friday 10 AM - 5 PM Saturday 9 AM - 1 PM Sunday - Monday - Closed
Renegade Classics Richmond
7590 West Broad Street, Merchants Walk Shopping Center, Richmond, VA 23228 804-501-2453
Tuesday -Saturday - 10 AM - 7 PM Sunday - 11 AM - 4 PM Monday - Closed
Lenny’s Leather
127 North Centre St. Cumberland, MD. 21502 240-362-8211
Tuesday -Saturday 10 AM - 4 PM Sunday - Monday - Closed
Kickstands Bar and Grill
3200 Junkins Ave. Clarksburg, WV 26301 304-624-0600
Hours Vary
Blaze Leather
2239 Harrison Ave, Elkins, WV 26241 (681) 298-5055 www.blaze-leather.com
Monday -Friday 10 AM - 6 PM Saturday - 10 AM - 7 PM Sunday - 10 PM - 3 PM
Triple S Harley Davidson
7300 Willie G Avenue, Westover, WV 26501 www.tripleshd.com (304) 284-8244
Monday - Closed Tuesday - Friday 10 AM - 6 PM Saturday & Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM
Big Daddyz Cycles
2810 George Washington Memorial Hwy, Hayes, VA 23072 804-642-3436
Tuesday -Saturday 10 AM - 5 PM Sunday - Monday - Closed
CHECK-IN LOCATIONS Baltimore H-D
8845 Pulaski Hwy. Baltimore, MD 21237 410-238-2003 www.hdstore.com
Monday -Friday 10 AM - 6 PM Saturday - 9 AM - 5 PM Sunday - Closed
Whirled of Color
116 Roesler Rd, Glen Burnie, MD 21060 410-553-0953
Monday -Friday 10 AM - 5 PM Saturday - 8 AM - 12 PM Sunday - Closed
Port Vape and Brew
8 S Main St, Port Deposit, MD 21904 443-895-1806
Thursday 5 PM - 12 AM Friday 5 PM - 2 AM Saturday 4 PM - 2 AM Sunday - 3 PM - 10 PM Monday - Wednesday - Closed
The Tavern
4975 St Leonard Rd, Saint Leonard, Maryland (410) 586-2225
Monday-Sunday 11 AM - 2 AM
Toots Bar
23975 Mervell Dean Road, Hollywood, MD 20636 301-373-2955
Monday-Saturday 11 AM - 2 AM Sunday - 11 AM - 12 AM
Brews and Cues
7954 B & A Blvd, Glen Burnie, Maryland 21060 410-761-6161 www.brews-cues.com
Monday-Friday 3 PM - 2 AM Saturday-Sunday - 11 AM - 2 AM
TG Automotive
8176 Telegraph Road Suite E, Severn, MD 21144 443-274-7710 www.tgautomotivemd.net
Monday -Friday 8 AM - 5:30 PM Saturday - 9 AM - 5 PM (Appt Only) Sunday - Closed
The Woodstock Inn
1514 Woodstock RD. Woodstock, MD 21163 410-750-3673 www.woodstockinn.net
Monday-Saturday - 11 AM - 2 AM Sunday - 10 AM - 2 AM
Rips
3809 N. Crain Hwy. Bowie, MD 20716 Wine & Spirit Shoppe 301-805-5902 www.ripscountryvillage.com
Sunday - 9 AM - 10 PM Monday-Thursday - 8 AM - 10 PM Friday-Saturday - 8 AM - 11 PM
Southern MD Pawn
2224 Crain Hwy, Waldorf, MD 20601 240-222-3547 www.smdpawn.com
Monday -Friday 10 AM - 7 PM Saturday - 10 AM - 5 PM Sunday - Closed
Pete’s Cycle Severna Park
800 Ritchie Hwy. Severna Park, MD. 21146 410-647-5880 www.petescycle.com
Tuesday -Friday 10 AM - 7 PM Saturday - 10 AM - 5 PM Monday - Sunday - Closed
Pete’s Cycle Bel Air
344 Bel Air Rd. Bel Air, MD 21014 410-879-3586 www.petescycle.com
Tuesday -Friday 10 AM - 7 PM Saturday - 10 AM - 5 PM Monday - Sunday - Closed
Pete’s Cycle Baltimore
7511 Belair Rd. Baltimore, MD. 21236 443-663-8556 www.petescycle.com
Monday -Friday 10 AM - 7 PM Saturday - 10 AM - 5 PM Sunday - Closed
Outback Leather
309 Main Street, Laurel, MD. 20707 301-604-2211 www.mdoutbackleather.com
Tuesay - Friday 10 AM - 5 PM Saturday - 10 AM - 2 PM Sunday - Monday - Closed
Big City Body Art
154 Lafayette Ave. Unit C, Laurel, MD. 20707 240-482-6162 www.bigcitybodyart.com
Tuesay -Friday 12 PM - 8 PM Sunday - 12 PM - 6 PM Monday - Closed
Old Town Grill
832 S. Main Street, Hampstead, MD. 21074 410-239-8134 www.oldtowngrillmd.com
Opens Every Day @ 11 AM Specials when you Check-In
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This isn’t just a hobby. It’s who I am. Rider gets it.
Share how deep your passion runs.
#NotaHobby
Ride with Rider. Get your quote today. Visit rider.com or call (844) 276-0161. Available in Delaware, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia.
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FACES
PLACES
REC
RACES
PROVIDING YOU THE BEST OFF-ROAD CONTENT IN THE PA & NJ REGION
Racer Review -
Fred Hoess 20 Time ISDE Gold Medal Winner for Team USA
of his factory race bikes from back in the day.
After attending a PVR Vintage HS for the second time in as many years I was in awe as I witnessed a local American Icon racing legend ride the wheels off his 1985 vintage Husqvarna race bike and pretty much crush the competition.
Fred was born and raised in New Jersey and began racing at 8 years old in the Netra off road series. Matter of fact on this day he got to compete against one of his long time sponsors and friends Drew Smith, owner of WER Products but Drew was also one of his first inspirations when he raced for Team USA many years ago.
At the riders meeting I heard series promotor Dave K. say that Fred liked to keep to himself but I had to approach him anyways and ask for an interview. After all it’s not too many men alive that carry the credentials that this humble but willing to talk racer does.
Fred went on to race professionally for Husqvarna over three decades in the 80’s, 90’s and 2000’s. He returned last year to chase that 20th gold medal and succeeded. Fred is also an industry veteran and works for BMW North America.
If you’re not familiar with an ISDE - it’s a 6 day offroad race over some of the roughest terrains found on earth, Individuals and country teams compete to see who is “the best in the world”. Last year Fred returned and raced in the Vintage class and earned his 20th Gold Medal aboard a 1986 Husqvarna 250WR which happened to be one
Fred asked that we thank his long time sponsors for helping him through his racing career: WER/ Find More Great Drew Smith, MSR, SIDI, Arai Off-Road Action At Helmets, Spectro Oils, FMF, BrappMag.com Motion Pro and Halls Husqvarna.
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thank you for your service
Michelle Gonzalez, US Army, SSG (E-6), 2007-Present
New Outdoor Deck and Patio; Fire Pit, Horseshoes Cornhole
chicken roast and bands last saturday each month
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WORTH A LOOK BY RICK WYATT
The time has come to move away from politics for a while and get back to basic gun gossip. It’s not that I have grown tired of political discourse, rather if it were up to me, we would fire damn near everybody in Washington and replace them with everyday citizens who have grown tired of the stench of the “swamp” and the irritating pests it seems to attract. After all the founders envisioned government to be “of the people, by the people and for the people” shunning the notion of a permanent political class. But, until “we the people” move to impose term limits and end career incumbency the body politic will continue to reek like an outhouse in August! Nuff said; ya’ll?!
simply observing the second rule of firearms safety “Always keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot” is sufficient to prevent accidental discharge. In every accidental discharge video I have viewed on You-Tube the subject, obviously suffering from perterminal moron ism, is engaging the trigger guard like a practice mannequin for a home proctology course, and if they had just kept their booger hook off the bang switch until the target was in their sights their proverbial 15 minutes of fame would have passed them by. Anyway back to the Glock, they are pretty much idiot proof and all but indestructible so if aesthetics are the issue, get over it and try one anyhow.
As a CPL instructor, one of the most common questions I get from my students is to recommend a carry firearm for them. Personally, I do not believe that it is professional for an instructor to “pimp” specific guns and/or calibers, because the gun world is definitely not “one size fits all,” so what works well for the teacher, may not be appropriate for the taught. Yes there are a couple of pistols I feel are a good starting point for most want to be buyers, especially newer shooters, to start their search for their gun. These pistols (all 9mm) are a bit larger than what is commonly viewed as “carry guns,” but experience has taught me that it is usually much easier to have people start with a lager platform and, as their proficiency improves, move down to a pure conceal carry piece than encouraging them to start small and deal with the frustrations of trying to be accurate with a handgun that exaggerates recoil, offers poor sighting, and (because of its diminutive size) is often difficult to work on firm grip and smooth trigger pull. Besides, if you think size is an issue I know a very petite young lady who carries one of these firearms daily and most of our customers don’t even suspect that she is armed!
A new gun in the market that is growing on me is the Smith and Wesson M&P M2.0, a much needed improvement over old M&P and M&P Shield. The nice thing about the M&P line is that the edges are rounded off making it much more comfortable in the hand, especially small hands. The biggest improvement in the M2.0 is a smoother more refined trigger pull vs the older M&P which always seemed to coarse; heavy trigger pull (within reason) shouldn’t be an issue as long as it is smooth! Unfortunately, Smith has kept the articulated trigger safety which by design often causes shooters to pull downward as they squeeze the trigger to the rear translating to low hits down range. But, all in all the M2.0 is a well-balanced, reliable and easy to shoot improvement over its predecessors.
My very favorite big peoples gun to start newer shooters (after being trained on a 22) or for people looking to get into conceal carry for the first time is the Glock 19. Yeah, yeah, I know Glocks are ugly, and they feel big in the hand and they don’t have a safety; but still they are one of the most reliable firearms in the market. I have yet to see a Glock that is picky about ammo or gets temperamental because it feels neglected. As far the issue of a safety, here is a simple truth every owner of a personal or home defense firearm needs to consider – a mechanical safety may get you killed! During WWII a lot of GI’s who carried nothing but a sidearm were found bayoneted to death with their 1911’s in their hands and the safeties still engaged. We are talking about men who were well trained and expecting trouble yet when the fecal matter impacted the pneumatic oscillation unit they forgot to unlock their cocked and locked pistols and it cost them their lives. As long as your firearm is in good mechanical condition
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The last gun you should look at, and shoot if possible, is the Sig Sauer P226 Legion. Built to the specifications of military Spec Ops this metal framed firearm is an outstanding piece of workmanship. Between the heavier mass, prominent tritium night sights, and factory tuned trigger pull this gun is a paper slaying beast on the range. Sweeter yet is the fact that it is a hammer fire system available in either single/double action so it can be carried hammer down, or single action (SAO option) and carried cocked and locked like a 1911. Bad news is that it costs more than twice what the Glock or Smith will set you back, but shoot one and you will see that it is more than worth the price! I want to close on a little different note and remind you that Monday the 29th is Memorial Day, the traditional start of summer. How about starting the summer off right by attending some kind of observance event in your community. A lot of small towns still have parades, many churches hold a special service, or it can be as easy as walking through your local cemetery and observing the flags adorning the graves of the veterans interred. Most vets will tell you that the most sincere form thanks you can show for their service is to honor their fallen brothers and sisters and the flag they are willing to die for.
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thank you for your service
Jay Freeman, USMC, Cpl (E-4), 2002-2009
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Rider TIPS
GROUP RIDING - PART I leader and 1 second behind the second rider. And the forth rider is 2 seconds behind the second rider.
Riding a motorcycle is a great deal of fun, but it is a lot more fun when you have a few friends to ride with. Riding in a group does however have its own set of challenges. The first is communication. Anyone who has ridden in a group knows that it is difficult to talk to other riders while you are riding, unless everyone has an Intercom system. Although an intercom system is probably the best form of on bike communication, not every rider has one (due to affordability or practicality issues). Therefore it is important that the riders in a group have a set of basic hand signals so that they can communicate effectively while they are on the road. Each group should have at least a basic set of signals that can easily convey issues ranging from the need to stop (gas, restroom/ rest break, and bike problems) to warnings (police, debris/ road hazards, and direction changes).
The easiest way to judge following distance is by using time. While following a vehicle, choose a stationary object up ahead (a tree, sign, light standard). As the vehicle in front of you passes the object, start counting until you pass the same object. Ideally you want a minimum of two seconds between you and the rider directly in front of you. Note: The lead rider should always assume the blocking position for the lane that the group is riding in, when the group changes lanes then the leader should again assume the blocking position and the other riders stagger themselves accordingly. This “Staggered Formation”
Another problem while riding in a relatively large group (approximately 6 or more riders) is keeping the group together. Things such stop lights/ stop signs and other vehicles on the road tend to create chaos for the cohesive nature of a group. There will be instances when a group may be broken up into smaller groups: • Only a portion of the group makes it through a light before it changes • Turning at an intersection allows other vehicles to divide the group • Not all riders can pass a vehicle(s) safely • Mechanical problem/ rider falls at the middle or near the back of the group What can the Leader(s) of the group do to keep this from happening? There are a few things that the riders can do to keep their group together as well as make their ride safer. As the lead rider approaches a light that is about to change, he/she has a few options: • If there is enough space & time and it is safe to do so, slowdown and let the light change before the group arrives • Pull over after passing the light or slow down so that the rest of the group can catch up without having to do excessive speeds When passing slower traffic: • Do not pass until there is enough room for all riders to pass (if the group is relatively small) • After passing a vehicle, make enough room for the riders behind you. You don’t want to stand another rider in “no man’s land” (the wrong side of the yellow line) with oncoming traffic The most important thing that a group can do to make their ride more enjoyable and safer is to be organized. The entire group should know the destination of the ride, as well as the route being taken. Also there should be designated rest stop as well as meeting spots in case the group does get separated. What this does is take pressure of riders who are separated from the rest of the group. Riders will be less inclined to ride over their heads in an effort to try and catch up/ keep up with the group, if they know that everyone will be waiting for them at a certain gas station, restaurant up the road. This is particularly true of newer riders, who might be uncomfortable with the pace set by more experienced riders in the group. Cell phones are also a good idea in case of an emergency (fall, mechanical failure); the rest of the group can be contacted and kept apprised of the situation.
provides safety for a group in two ways: • Size – the group is more compact, you can imagine how long this group of 4 riders would be if they were riding single file. The last rider would be off the diagram. Also the more spread out a group is the more it invites car drivers to attempt to merge between riders • Space – every rider in the group has a safety cushion around him/ her, 2 seconds in front and behind as well as room to maneuver from side to side to avoid debris, potholes etc. Note: There will be situations when it will be safer for the group to use the single file formation. These would include: • Turns • On/Off Ramps • Streetcar tracks • Passing slower vehicles • Construction Zones • Narrow Bridges • Roads with parked cars When passing slower vehicles (diagram 5.2), each rider should spend as little time as possible in “no man’s land”. The group should not try to pass together. If something were to happen some riders could be caught on the wrong side of the yellow line, with on-coming traffic rapidly approaching.
GROUP RIDING 101 When riding in a group the riders should ride in what is called “Staggered Formation”, diagram 5.1 depicts this staggered formation in action. As we can see the leader is in the left portion of the lane (blocking position). The next rider is 1 second behind the leader, in the right portion of the lane. The third rider is in the left portion of the lane, 2 seconds behind the 46
MAY 2017
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thank you for your service
Dean Case, US Army, LTC (O-5), 1994-Present
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thank you for your service
Jeronimo W. Cordova-Estrada II, USAF, TSgt (E-6), 1999-Present Thunder RoadsÂŽMid-Atlantic
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NCOM BIKER NEWSBYTES AIM-2622-F-Ad for Tennessee.indd 1 Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish, National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) FIRST-EVER MOTORCYCLE CAUCUS FORMED IN U.S. SENATE In a rare bipartisan effort, motorcyclists are getting a very special form of representation in the U.S. Senate as two Senators are reaching across the aisle to establish the first Senate Motorcycle Caucus. Kickstarting this unique legislative road trip, Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Gary Peters (D-Michigan), both lifelong motorcyclists, will serve as co-chairs of the caucus, which will advocate on behalf of both motorcycle riders and manufacturers. Sen. Ernst said her concern for motorcycles and motorcyclists started when she was a child. “Some of my most cherished memories include motorcycles, from delivering messages as a young girl to my dad while he was working out in the fields, to riding through the rolling hills of Northeast Iowa with family and friends,” Ernst said. “Throughout my 99 county tour of Iowa, I have heard from many of these folks about some of their priorities, including improving safety, infrastructure and energy efficiency. These concerns are shared by folks across our great state and country, and I look forward to working with Sen. Peters toward solutions.” Sen. Peters bought his first motorcycle at age 11. “I’ve loved motorcycles since I was a kid, and I started a newspaper route to buy my first motorcycle at age 11. To this day, I believe there is no better way to see Michigan’s beautiful scenery than by bike, whether I’m riding to meet with constituents and small businesses or taking my bike out on the weekend,” Peters said. “Motorcyclists come from all walks of life, and I can’t think of a better way to bring together a diverse and dedicated group of advocates to discuss everything from safety concerns to manufacturing. I’m looking forward to working with Sen. Ernst as co-chair of the bipartisan Senate Motorcycle Caucus to foster these important discussions and find common ground with motorcycle lovers across the country.” SECURITY AND PRIVACY IN YOUR (SPY) CAR STUDY ACT With motorcyclists sharing the road with a growing number of Smart vehicles, security from cyber-intrusion is a significant safety 50
concern, and U.S. Reps Joe Wilson (R-SC) and Ted Lieu (D-CA) 11/1/11 5:06have PM introduced H.R. 701; the Security and Privacy in Your Car Study Act of 2017 (“SPY Car Study Act”) to address automotive software safety, cybersecurity and privacy regulations. This bill would require the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to conduct a study to determine and recommend standards for the regulation of the cybersecurity of motor vehicles manufactured or imported for sale in the United States. The study shall identify: - isolation measures that are necessary to separate critical software systems that can affect the driver’s control of the movement of the vehicle from other software systems; - measures that are necessary to detect and prevent or minimize anomalous codes, in vehicle software systems, associated with malicious behavior; - techniques that are necessary to detect and prevent, discourage, or mitigate intrusions into vehicle software systems and other cybersecurity risks in motor vehicles; and - best practices to secure driving data about a vehicle’s status or about the owner, lessee, driver, or passenger of a vehicle that is collected by the electronic systems of motor vehicles; and - a timeline for implementing systems and software that reflect such measures, techniques, and best practices. POLICE MOTORCYCLE HIT BY AUTOPILOT TESLA According to a report in the Arizona Republic, a Phoenix police motorcycle was hit by a Tesla Model X operating on autopilot. Police said the officer and the Tesla exited a freeway with the motorcycle in front. When the rider stopped for a light, the car stopped as well, but then started moving forward. The officer jumped off the bike, which was struck at low speed by the car. The driver reported having the car on autopilot at the time. The officer was uninjured and the car driver wasn’t ticketed. Tesla has warned customers in the past that its autopilot mode does not mean a driver can completely disengage, but increasingly it seems customers are unwilling to listen. Tesla’s website specifically states that drivers are in command of their vehicles after
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exiting freeways. The company announced in October that it would soon begin including hardware in its vehicles that could make them fully autonomous. Currently, the vehicles are simply equipped with driver aids like forward collision warning, automatic braking and auto steering. “AUTOCYCLES” NO LONGER CONSIDERED MOTORCYCLES IN TWO MORE STATES Colorado and Wyoming are the latest states to reclassify their licensing requirements which allow drivers of so-called “Autocycles”, such as the Polaris Slingshot, to operate the vehicle with a valid state driver’s license instead of requiring a motorcycle endorsement or license. Drivers under the age of 18 will still be required to wear a helmet, in accordance with the states’ motorcycle helmet laws. Because of the three-wheeled configuration and characteristics of autocycles, determining how to classify them has been a challenge for state governments. Polaris calls the Slingshot a “threewheeled moto-roadster.” Initially, when it was introduced to the market in 2014, consumers were required to have a motorcycle endorsement or license to operate the Slingshot, which offers a distinct ride through its open cockpit and side-by-side seating. Currently, 30 states, including the District of Columbia, require only a driver’s license to drive an autocycle. The remaining states require a motorcycle endorsement, but Polaris says efforts are being made to reclassify the vehicle to gain full conformity throughout the United States. “As we educate state officials on the unique attributes of this category-creating Slingshot, they are realizing that the licensing requirement for the roadster are more similar to that of a driver’s license than of a motorcycle endorsement or license,” said Rachael Elia, Slingshot Marketing Manager. “Our goal is to gain a unified classification across the country to provide more opportunity and driving freedom for consumers looking for the ultimate thrill experience.” DRIVER WHO “DIDN’T CARE” HE HIT MOTORCYCLIST GETS 15 YEARS Remember the Texas driver who was filmed deliberately swerving across centerline into a passing motorcyclist and then said “I don’t care” that he’d knocked the rider and his girlfriend to the ground? The heartless car driver is 69-year-old William Crum and following a two-day trial at 355th District Court in Hood County, Texas, he’s been sentenced to 15 years in prison after being convicted on one count of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon causing bodily injury. The 15-year sentence means that Crum, who was arrested soon after the incident in Granbury, TX in October 2015, will be in prison until he’s 84. HARLEY PULLED INTO POLITICAL FIGHT OVER LEATHER PRODUCTS Many challenges face motorcycle manufacturers selling their products in other countries; and a strange example of this is HarThunder Roads®Mid-Atlantic
ley-Davidson facing a public relations issue in India over leather, something as closely associated with bikers as the bikes they ride. Leather comes from cows, which are revered and even worshiped by many in the Hindu community, and according to the Hindustan Times a well-known Bollywood actor is taking on the iconic American motorcycle-maker over religious principles. Popular actor and producer Ajaz Khan is urging India’s Prime Minister to impose a ban on Harley-Davidson products, claiming they’re made from cow hide. “I just bought a leather belt from Harley Davidson,” Khan is quoted by the Hindustan Times as saying. “This is a cow leather belt. It’s being sold in the entire world. If you really consider yourself men, then I request [the Prime Minister] shuts down Harley Davidson.” MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS RALLY PUT ON HOLD AFTER LONDON TERROR ATTACK A mass London “Awareness Ride-Out” to be held a day after a deadly terrorist attack in the vicinity of the Palace of Westminster, seat of the British Parliament, had to be rescheduled in the wake of the Wednesday, March 22 car attack that killed four and injured more than 50 pedestrians. The campaign group “We Ride London,” which aims to be the “main lobby group for riders of motorcycles, scooters and mopeds in London,” had invited thousands to join a ride at 1pm on Thursday April 23, from Regents Park through central London to City Hall, but had to call the event off. A statement on the group’s Facebook page said: “We have decided to cancel tomorrow’s awareness ride in light of the terrible events in our capital today. Now is not the time to be hindering the emergency and security services as they investigate and recover from this.” ROLLING INTO RENO FOR NCOM CONVENTION With the 32nd Annual NCOM Convention in Reno just weeks away, the National Coalition of Motorcyclists is requesting that MROs, Motorcycle Clubs, & riding associations submit the names of those members & supporters who have died this year, so that we may honor their memories during the traditional “Ringing of the Bell” tribute to fallen riders during the opening ceremonies. Dedications can be hand-delivered at the Convention to “Doc” Reichenbach, NCOM Chairman of the Board, or e-mailed in advance to Bill Bish at NCOMBish@aol.com. Attendees are also encouraged to bring an item on behalf of their organization for the Freedom Fund Auction, with proceeds benefiting the motorcyclists’ rights movement nationwide through Getting Our People Elected donations, NCOM Speaker Program, lobbying activities & other pro-motorcycling projects as determined by the NCOM Board of Directors. The 32nd annual NCOM Convention will be held Mother’s Day weekend, May 11-14 at the Silver Legacy Resort-Casino, 407 N. Virginia St. in Reno, NV, so reserve your room now for the special NCOM rate of $99 by calling (800) 687-8733 and mention “GNCOM17”. Pre-register for the 2017 NCOM Convention at (800) 525-5355 or visit www.ON-A-BIKE.com.
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upcoming events
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DELAWARE
Bike Nights: Monday - Tom’s Bullpen – Dover, DE. 6-10PM DJ Bug Rocking all your favorite hits - Everyone is WELCOME! Great Food - Cold Drinks Please Keep the BULLSHIT at HOME! Thursday – Hooter’s New Castle, DE. 6-10PM 41st Annual May Day Poker Run Sunday, May 7, 2017 10 AM – 3 PM Boston Market, 3130 Kirkwood Hwy, Wilmington, DE 19808 Food, Drinks, Games, Pins and Prizes! Rain or Shine A Portion of proceeds goes to Local Charities 313 Car and Motorcycle Show Sunday, May 7, 2017 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM IBEW Local 313 Hall 814 Basin Road, New Castle, DE Our 8th Annual Car and Bike show. Food, Vendors, Cars, Bikes, Trophies. 3rd Annual Run for Fun - Kay’s Kamp Saturday, May 13, 2017 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM Tri-State Mall, 333 Naamans Rd, Claymont, DE 19703 Escorted Ride to Penn’s Grove VFW #8840 (100 Margaret Street, Penn’s Grove , NJ. 08069) $20.00 Per Rider / $25 with Passenger More Info - www.kayskamp.org CMA Bike Blessing Friday, May 19, 2017 - Sunday, May 21, 2017 4075 Gun & Rod Road, Houston, DE. 19954 Christian Motorcyclist Association is having a TriState Rally May 19-21 2017 Delaware-MarylandNew Jersey. Bike Blessing Saturday May 20, 2017 Free Hot Dogs, Chips & Water. Event is open to all motorcyclist free admission for NONCMA members. Bike games, Tour rides, Meet state Leaders & explore Ministry opportunities. Come and check us out and what we do.
MARYLAND Bikes to the Beach Spring Rally 2017 Friday, May 5-7, 2017 Hooper’s Crab House, 12913 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, MD 21842 Live Music · Outdoor Venues · Custom Bike Show · Poker Run The East Coast’s fastest growing bike rally! Fall is nearing and everyone is itching to fire up their bikes and head to the beautiful resort town of Ocean City, Maryland! Lamont’s Bikefest Weekend – 2017 Friday, May 5-7, 2017 Lamonts Nightclub, 4400 Livingston Rd, Indian Head, MD 20640 Many Bands, Vendors Welcome - Bike Show Sat, May 6th, 10AM-4PM Fri, May 5th - 5PM-2AM Sat, May 6th - 10AM-2AM Sun, May 7th - 10AM-12AM No Pets, Dry Camping only 54
Operation Blue Line Motorcycle Ride Saturday, May 6, 2017 8 AM – 5 PM Jerry Skrivanek V.F.W. Post 8185, 520 Susquehanna River Rd, Port Deposit, MD 21904 Operation Blue Line Motorcycle Ride - Hogs and Heroes Foundation Md-3 Registration: $15 per rider $20 with a passenger Pre-registration will be every Thursday night in April at the VFW post 8185 in Port Deposit, Md. In the banquet hall from 5pm-8pm Registration begins the day of the ride at 8am and lasts until 9:45am in the Walmart parking lot located at 303 Fallston Blvd. Fallston Md. 21047 Look for our tent in the parking lot KSU at 10am for a scenic ride through Harford and Cecil Counties ending at the VFW in Port Deposit No motorcycle? That’s ok come out and enjoy the festivities anyway. Events will begin at the VFW in Port Deposit at 12pm and last until 5pm Live Entertainment by Shotgun Betty and Common Ground Band Food, Craft, and Direct Sale Vendors on site Motorcycle show, Dunking Booth, Raffles,50/50 and more! Proceeds to the Maryland Chapter of C.O.P.S. Concerns of Police Survivors takes care of the families of fallen officers Operation Red Line Motorcycle Run Saturday, May 6, 2017 9 AM – 3 PM Elkton Memorial VFW Post #8175 208 W High St, Elkton, Maryland 21921 This event hosted by Knights of the Fallen is a Motorcycle ride from Joppatowne to Elkton to raise money for 2 local Fire Depts. Vendors participating so far are: Tastefully Simple, Perfectly POSH, Paparazzi, Pure Romance, LulaRoe, Thirty-One, Young Living Oils, USBORNE Books, Mary Kay, Origami Owl, Premier Jewelry, Lipsense, Scentsy , Premier Designs and many Crafters more to come. STILL NEED VENDORS Riders are needed to help make this event HUGE. Rider fee is $10 and passenger $5. Please pm me if your interested and I will give you the right people to contact. We will also have food stands and entertainment. 7th Annual Memorial Ride Saturday, May 6, 2017 8:30 AM – 4 PM Loyal Order-Cambridge Moose, 5446 Moose Lodge Rd, Cambridge, MD 21613 Sponsored by - Eastern Shore Police Association This wall is to honor all the Police Officers who have lost their lives while working the Eastern Shore of Maryland. $20.00 Donation for each Motorcycle - $10.00 per passenger – More info – www.campespa.org PFMC Annual Fundraiser Saturday, May 6, 2017 8:30 AM – 4 PM VFW Post 2632, 23282 Three Notch Rd, California, MD 20619 - Support Semper Fi Fund Music by Snakebite - Door Prizes - 50/50 Raffle - Grand Prizes including two 12 Gauge Shotguns and USMC K-Bar $20.00 Donations at the door is appreciated Kundratic Kustom Motorcycles - Spring Swap Meet Sunday, May 7, 2017 9 AM – 3 PM Kundratic Kustom Motorcycles, 6310 Holabird Ave, Baltimore, MD 21224 The areas only traditional old school swap meet with just motorcycle & hot rod parts. No jewelry & leather vendors, insurance agencies, MAY 2017
crafts, peek-a-boo dolls…..none of the shit you usually just walk by! Tons of vendors will be buying, selling and swapping used parts, vintage parts, new parts, hard to find parts, fenders, tanks, frames, accessories, chrome, steel and everything in between! Pickup parts for your hot rod, rat rod, bagger, bobber, café racer, chopper or drag bike. This isn’t just for Harley’s folks! $25 per 10x10 space. This is a drizzle or shine event, remember to bring your pop-up tent. As always, it’s FREE to come and shop plus lots of FREE parking. Call us or stop by the shop to reserve your space today. 410.633.3113 Motorcycle Show & Vendor Event Saturday, May 13, 2017 10 AM – 3 PM American Legion, 501 St John St, Havre De Grace, MD 21078 Lot’s of Vendors for the Whole Family Crowd Pick - Motorcycle Show Pit Beef, Ham, And Turkey Registration for Show @ 10:00am IDBL 20th Annual Spring Nationals May 19-21, 2017 Maryland International Raceway, 27861 Budds Creek Rd, Mechanicsville, MD 20659 Motorcycle Drag Racing The 2017 International Drag Bike League (IDBL) tour will include five events with four taking place at its flagship location, Maryland International Raceway (MDIR), and the addition of a race at Rockingham Dragway. MCVcares Ribbon Ride 2017 Saturday, May 20, 2017 9 AM – 1 PM 1100 Westminster Pike, Reisterstown, MD 21136-4621 Join us for Breakfast and a Scenic 1.5hr Back Road Group Ride then Lunch at Lake Redman $25 for one-up and $35 for two-up BREAKFAST & LUNCH INCLUDED Breakfast Served at 9:00 Full Moon Pub and Grille 1100 Westminster Pike, Reisterstown, MD 21136 Ride Departs Promptly at 10:30 Pre-ride Safety Meeting at 10:20 Hits 4 Heroes Poker Run Saturday, May 20, 2017 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM Seabreeze Restaurant, Mechanicsville, MD. 20659 Proceeds from Poker Run and all Hits 4 Heroes fundraisers will go to support local wounded veterans and there families. This event is open to all types of transportation. Random Impact starts playing at 5:00 for the after party. Please go to Hits 4 Heroes facebook and Hits 4 Heroes.org for all fundraiser information. 2nd Annual Operation Comfort Warriors Benefit Saturday, May 20, 2017 10 AM – 5:30 PM American Legion Post 82, 6330 N. Crain Hwy, La Plata, MD. Poker ride registration begins at 10am at Post 82, kickstands up at 10:30am; Last stop will be at Post 82, approximately 3:30pm. The Jim Seymour Band will begin at 4pm and the Impact band will be on at 7:30pm. All proceeds go to the American Legion Charity Operation Comfort Warriors https://www.legion.org/ operationcomfortwarriors . Event is sponsored by American Legion Riders, Post 82, La Plata, MD (301-934-8221)
Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic
16th Annual British & European Classic Motorcycle Day Sunday, May 21, 2017 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM High Point Farm, Frederick RD, Clarksburg, MD. 20871 Concours, Swap Meet, Door Prizes, Tech Talks, Vintage Trials Demo For All British & European Classic Motorcycles built through 1983 Admission $10 • Vendors from $25 (children under 12 free) Rolling Thunder Weekend - East Coast Thunder Saturday, May 27, 2017 11 AM – 4 PM Old Glory Harley-Davidson A rally to support Rolling Thunder - East Coast Thunder A Salute to our VETS at Noon Live music by - The Tommy McGee Band - Reggie Wayne Morris Silent Auction - Swap Meet - People Choice Bike Show - Great Food LAMA - 17th Annual Rolling Thunder Party Saturday, May 27, 2017 1 PAM – 9 PM Comfort Inn & Suites BWI Airport, 6921 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21225 Latin America Motorcycle Association - 17th Annual Rolling Thunder Party Come celebrate the Baltimore Chapter’s 17th Anniversary While remembering those who have served Food, Friends, Music, Vendors, Raffles and much more.Tickets are $15 per person at the gate - Kids 12 and under are free Annual BMW Square Route Rally Friday, June 2, 2017 - Sunday, June 4, 2017 YMCA Camp West Mar, 14509 Brown Rd, Sabillasville, MD 21780 This is the BMW club’s annual rally in the beautiful Catoctin Mountains near Thurmont, MD. BMW Riders from all over the area come together to socialize, ride, and camp. www.bmwbmw.org Punishers 2nd Annual Fisher House Fundraiser Saturday, June 3, 2017 – 10 AM – 4 PM 7830 Airpark Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20879 Live Music performance by WELLPLAYED Free BBQ with Donation or Purchase Raffles & Door Prizes Group Motorcycle Ride at 1:00PM Registration Fee $10.00 Bike Wash - Bike Show Maryland Gold Star Legacy Run Friday, June 9, 2017 - Sunday, June 11, 2017 Maryland Gold Star Legacy Run - Legacy Scholarship Fund The proceeds of this ride will help provide college scholarships to the children of our Fallen Soldiers and the children of our 50% or greater disabled veterans since 9/11. Starting Friday June 9, 1017 we will leave Towson American Legion Post 22 in the morning and travel over 700 miles around Maryland to return on Sunday to Towson. We will be staying in Ocean City on Friday night and Cumberland on Saturday night. More details and exact route information can be obtained at WWW.MDALR.org after February 20, 2017 or by emailing Joe Gladden at ioeglad123@ aol.com Donation: $50.00 per Bike - includes patch and rocker Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic
Ride for Life Saturday, June 10, 2017 from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Arundel Christian Church, 710 Aquahart Road, Glen Burnie, MD. 21061 Join us on the 3rd Annual Ride for Life. Ride For Life is a 90 mile motorcycle ride to raise funds and support the Pregnancy Clinic ministry in Bowie/ Crofton, Severna Park and Annapolis. Our ride through Anne Arundel and Prince Georges counties will take us over some back roads and highways as we pass each of the three centers. We will take a break in Annapolis to visit the clinic there. Registration is available at: www.RideForLifeMd.org On-site from 8:30 - 9:15 a.m. on the day of the ride. $30 for Bike and Rider - $20 for Passenger Kick stands up will be at 9:30 a.m. Lunch will be served at Bay Area Community Church at the conclusion of the ride. The Woodstock Inn’s - Bikefest Sunday’s Sunday, June 11, 2017 11 AM – 8 PM 1415 Woodstock Road. Woodstock, MD. 21163 Bands, Bikers, BBQ, and Beer! No Cover - Noon - 5PM Bands - June 11th - Never Never Bike / Car Wash & Fish Fry Saturday, June 17, 2017 – 10 AM -2 PM Clinton Cycles, 6709 Old Branch Ave, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Vendors will be on site 4 your Shopping pleasure... Enjoy some Fried Chicken, French Fries, Green Beans, Mac-n-cheese, baked beans, and potato salad Come get your car and bike washed!! Chosen Sons Annual Shrimp Feast & Bull Roast Saturday, June 17, 2017 – 1 PM -6 PM CCERA, 1 Paul Marr Dr, Glen Burnie, MD 21060 Fundraiser to benefit The Stone Soup Foundation Shrimp - Pit Beef - Corn on the Cob - Potatoes - Salads Soft Drinks and Water Included BEER Available Donation $25 in Advance - $30 at the Door Faces of Valor Ride Sunday, June 25, 2017 from 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM Honoring and supporting Captain Luis Avila who was severely wounded leading a platoon on his fifth tour of duty in Afghanistan www.facesofvalorusa.org Hagerstown Bike Week Thursday, June 29, 2017 - Saturday, July 2, 2017 Get ready to enjoy four days of excitement in Western Maryland! Events, rides and activities will take place all throughout Hagerstown and beyond. Free food, a marketplace filled with vendors, tattoo artists, bikini bike washes, stunt shows, biker games, bike vendors, scenic rides and camping will all be available. Live music can be heard at just about every venue. Check out the tattoo contest or a local bikini contest. Restaurants will be featuring breakfast, lunch and dinner specials throughout the four days. From steak to an all-American picnic & hog roast to hard-shell crabs and don’t forget those drink specials!
VIRGINIA
Bike Night – Thursday – High Tides – Colonial Beach, VA. 6-11PM High Tides is kicking off the riding season by starting a bike night that promises to be a very good time. DJ Rockin Roger will be providing the tunes for now but as the summer starts arriving look for live music to be on the menu. The Tiki Bar is almost an arms reach away from the water and there is usually
a fire going in the firepit on those chilly evenings. CLUB COLORS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME! No Drama, No BS and have a good time. Thursday - El Rodeo Restaurant – Fredericksburg, VA. 5-9PM Big O Bike Shop LLC sponsored Bike Night Weekly 50/50 drawings. Proceeds to a different charity each month. Games, contests, raffles, and giveaways. Great authentic food and homemade ethnic desserts. More info - Kerry O’Shields - 703 963 0697 4th Annual Olde Towne Cycle-Chris Yung’s Poker Run Saturday, May 6, 2017 8:00 AM Olde Towne Cycle, Cool Springs Road, Fredericksburg, VA Join us on this day to ride in memory of our fallen friend Officer Chris Yung. Proceeds to benefit the families of fallen and Law Enforcement Officers and the Chris Yung Memorial Fund for Education and Special Needs for Officer Chris Yung’s three children.
upcoming events
The Woodstock Inn’s - Bikefest Sunday’s Sunday, May 21, 2017 11 AM – 8 PM 1415 Woodstock Road. Woodstock, MD. 21163 Bands, Bikers, BBQ, and Beer! No Cover - Noon - 5PM - Bands - May 21st - One Louder
3rd Annual, Motorcycle Ride To End Alzheimer’s Saturday, May 6, 2017 from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM Main Street United Methodist Church, East Main Street, Bedford, VA Registration 8:30 - 10:00am, Driver/Rider $15/$10 Kickstands up 10:00am, approximately 1.5 hr. ride over scenic Va. Byways Registration drawing, raffles and lunch at ride completion. Prizes are sponsor or private contribution. Proceeds go directly to the Alzheimer’s Association Central & Western Va. To learn more about this event, past / present and its Alzheimer’s awareness, care, research & support, go to our Motorcycling for Alzheimer’s web site jo39arn.wixsite.com/mtcforalz
MotoAmerica Road Race Virginia International Raceway Friday, May 12-14, 2017 VIRginia International Raceway, 1245 Pine Tree Rd, Alton, VA 24520 The top Superbike racers in North America return to VIRginia International Raceway May 12-14 after a highly successful second year with the new and improved MotoAmerica AMA/FIM Superbike Challenge. The weekend will include two full days of racing—a doubleheader event—for the Superbike, Superstock 1000, Supersport, Superstock 600, and KTM RC Cup classes, plus vendors and fun for the whole family. Several things make Virginia International Raceway unique and one of them is the fact that there are lodging options right at the racetrack—the Lodge, the Pit Lane Rooms and The Villas at South Bend. The facility, which returned last year to host Superbike racing after a four-year hiatus, has long been a favorite of riders and fans alike. Although there are several layout options at VIR, the MotoAmerica series will use the 2.25-mile North Course. Rooster’s Ride for Autism Saturday, May 13, 2017 from 8 AM to 7 PM Steel Horse Harley-Davidson, 11501 Hull Street Rd, Midlothian, VA 23112 Come support a fun filled day in Memory of our Brother Robert to help out those with Autism. Robert “Rooster” was always making this world a better place while he was here and he continues from Heaven. Lots to do!!! There will be a Ride, Bike Games, Food, Vendors & Music. Kids will also enjoy the Face Painting and Activities Table! Click on the flyer for more details! Registration begins at 8:00AM - KSU @ 9:30AM $15.00 per Rider and $5.00 per Passenger
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upcoming events
Hunting Down Huntington’s Disease Saturday, May 13, 2017 from 11 AM to 5 PM 2294 Berryville Pike, Winchester, VA 22603 Raffles - 50/50 Raffles - Door Prizes Registration @ 11AM - KSU @ 12PM $10.00 Sols + $5 for Passenger Entry Fee BACA Annual 100 Mile Ride Saturday, May 20, 2017 from 1 PM to 9 PM Steel Horse Harley-Davidson, 11501 Hull Street Rd, Midlothian, VA 23112 BIKERS AGAINST CHILD ABUSE - Tri City Chapter Annual 100 Mile Ride - Aiming to raise awareness & funds in the fight against child abuse. Door Prizes, After Party & Live Music with “Double Down” at Another Round Bar and Grill 7:00PM. Registration begins at 1:00PM - KSU @ 2:00PM Several Stops along the way. BACA - 100 Mile Ride Saturday, May 20, 2017 from 11 AM to 7 PM Moose Lodge 1041, 43 Catoctin Cir SE, Leesburg, VA 20175 The NOVA Chapter of Virginia BACA is having it’s annual ride to promote Child Abuse Awareness. Riders of all levels are invited to participate. The ride will leave from Leesburg Moose Lodge and follow a predefined rote. There will be fuel and rest stops before returning to the Moose. Tickets - $20.00 per rider - $10 per Passenger Registration starts at 11:00 am Rescue event to benefit Missing in America Virginia – MIAP Saturday, May 20, 2017 from 10 AM to 4 PM Colonial Harley-Davidson, 1701 Temple Pkwy, Prince George, VA 23875 3rd Annual: Hands of Rescue event to benefit Missing in America Virginia - MIAP American Red Cross will be there with the blood mobile accepting blood donations 10-2pm. Product vendors, food trucks, raffle items, door prizes, entertainment Guest speaker: Lt Col Michael Waltz, Special Forces, Fox News contributor American Legion will be presenting the colors at 10am and retiring the colors at 3pm This event will run in conjunction with Colonial Harley Davidson’s spring open house. Rolling Thunder 2017 Meetup Fredericksburg Sunday, May 28, 2017 from 7:30 AM Old Dominion Harley Davidson The Fredericksburg Fallen Heroes are gearing up for the annual Ride to the Wall for Rolling Thunder in May. Please arrive at Old Dominion Harley Davidson @ 7:30 a.m. KSU will be @ 8:30 a.m. Come ride with us and let’s remember together our Fallen Battlefield Bash Friday, June 9, 2017 - Sunday, June 11, 2017 Ed Allen’s Campgrounds, 13501 Campground Rd, Lanexa, VA 23089 This event consists of a Poker Run through historic routes in the area, Live Bands, Vendors, raffles. Registration Prices: Rider- $25 Passenger- $10 - Extra hand- $5 www.combatvet27-3.org/battlefield-bash The Dragon Roars - Back of the Dragon Friday, June 9, 2017 - Sunday, June 11, 2017 524 W Main St, Tazewell, VA 24651 Back of the Dragon Monster Freestyle MX Show Bike and Car Shows Kids Area – Vendors - Beer Garden Demolition Derby - Dragon Master Ride For more info - http://backofthedragon.com/ Boozefighters MC Chapter 35 is hosting a Poker Run to support Laurel Shelter, Inc.
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Saturday, June 10, 2017 – 9:30 AM -5:30 PM Wild Horse Cafe, 4938 George Washington Memorial Highway, Hayes, VA 23072 The Boozefighters MC Chapter 35 is hosting a poker run to support Laurel Shelter, Inc. in Gloucester, VA on June 10, 2017. Registration is from 9:30 – 11:00 at Wild Horse Cafe, 4938 George Washington Memorial Highway, Hayes, VA 23072. First bike out at 11:00 and last bike in at 3:00. The route travels through the beautiful Gloucester countryside and ends at Damon & Company, 7104 George Washington Memorial Highway, Gloucester Courthouse VA 23061. The mission of Laurel Shelter, Inc. is to empower victims of domestic violence and sexual assault by providing victim services and to prevent violence by increasing awareness of the impact these victimizations have on all members of the community. Come out and party with the Original Wild Ones!!! Beer...Band...Food...Prizes...50/50…Raffle…Poker Run!!! Mid-Atlantic Women’s Motorcycle Rally 2017 Thursday, June 15, 2017 - Saturday, June 17, 2017 Front Royal Blue Ridge Shadows, 111 Hospitality Drive, Front Royal, VA 22630 The Mid-Atlantic Women’s Motorcycle Rally is the premiere women’s motorcycling event in the Mid-Atlantic. Held every June, it brings together women motorcyclists and enthusiasts for a three day rally full of friendship, games, educational seminars, rides, contests, and fundraising to support women with the challenges of cancer. The weekend culminates in the Parade of Chrome to honor women riders, cancer survivors and pledge our support to those that have been touched by cancer. To date, the women of the Mid-Atlantic Women’s Motorcycle Rally have raised over $350,000 to support women facing the many challenges of cancer. We will continue this tradition in the fashion that we know best — bringing together women and having a great time together though educational seminars, rides and of course a few games. Being a woman motorcyclist is powerful – why not join and bring your power to combine forces with us? www.mawmr.org Sundowners June Ride Saturday, June 17, 2017 – 11 AM -7 PM 8300 Sudley Rd, Manassas, VA 20109 Meet the Sundowners At Manassas Mall In The Parking Lot In Front of Sears We are going to take the scenic route thru some twist and turns and end up in Middleburg VA BRING YOUR BIKE HOT ROD AND ALL YOUR FRIENDS AND LETS ENJOY A GOOD RIDE AND THEN MUSIC FOOD AND FUN $10 DINNERS AT THE END OF THE RIDE COME DONATE AND SUPPORT THE “MIKE TURNER SCHOLARSHIP FUND” END OF RIDE ADDRESS 35988 Turkey Roast Rd Middleburg VA thesundownersbikeclub.shutterfly.com State Burners MC Annual Bike Weekend Friday, June 23, 2017 - Sunday, June 23, 2017 Hilton Garden Inn Woodbridge, 2500 Neabsco Common Pl, Woodbridge, VA 22191 Bike show, Contests, Games, Live Music, Vendors, Food and More www.stateburners-nova.com/flyers-and-events/ Desert Knights Maryland Event Saturday, June 24, 2017 – 1 PM -11 PM American Legion Post 66 9605 Old Laurel Bowie Rd, Bowie, Maryland 20720 $20 Entry Fee - Food & Drink - Live Music Vendors – Raffles MAY 2017
WEST VIRGINIA
Capitol City Biker Bash Thursday, June 8, 2017 - Saturday, June 10, 2017 6th Annual Capitol City Biker Bash brought to you by Go Mart and Mountain Dew at Haddad Riverfront Park along the banks of the beautiful Kanawha River. The city closes all four lanes of the Kanawha Boulevard for Motorcycle enthusiast to have easy access to Charleston and enjoy West Virginia’s wonderful winding byways, rockin music, fabulous food and to see dear old friends as well as make cherished new ones. The Capitol City Biker Bash is partnering for a fourth year with HospiceCare. Since the partnership began the rally and their partners have sold tickets for a motorcycle that is given away on the last night of the rally with all the proceeds going to HospiceCare. The tickets are sold at special events, HospiceCare office located on the Kanawha Blvd, and during the rally. This year’s prize bike is a Suzuki Boulevard sponsored by Hidden Trails and Frontier Communications. The Capitol City Biker Bash committee along with their volunteers work very hard to host this event filled 3 day rally that will have 3 days of “FREE” concerts, fun contests, and so much more all in the Hip, Historic...Almost Heaven, Charleston West Virginia. – www.capitalcitybikerbash.com SCRC West Virginia State Rally 2017 Friday, June 9, 2017 - Sunday, June 11, 2017 3350 Big Laurel Hwy, Bluefield, WV. 24701. The Southern Cruisers Riding Club is a Free, Family Oriented Motorcycle Riding Club that uses the Web to communicate and focuses on the Enjoyment and Fellowship of Riding Motorcycles while doing so Safely. The Southern Cruisers is not an Internet club for Motorcycle Enthusiasts. Check the event website (below) for additional details and updates. CMA Eastern National Rally Tuesday, June 20, 2017 - Saturday, June 24, 2017 The largest camp meeting, revival, family friendly gathering with motorcycle riding in the nation can be found at CMA’s Eastern National Rally and the premier Changing of the Colors Rally! Join thousands of CMA’ers and motorcyclists for exciting rallies in 2017! Featuring John Ogden Sr., CMA CEO/Chairman, Keynote Speaker, 7:00 PM Opening Service of Rally For the Whole Family: Services each morning and evening with prayer, worship, and encouragement from the CMA National leadership team. Youth Movement for ages 13 and older Kidz for Christ for ages 4 to 12 – Larry & Mary Sims CMA Goodie Store ~ Praise & Worship ~ Seminars ~ Parade & Bike Games Self-guided rides including scenic Fast Lane rides. Member Training for Adults and Youth Movement Run for the Son fundraiser booths Camping ~ Vendors ~ Concessions Run for the Son Recognition & Awards – Celebrate the work that God is doing through your efforts! Speakers from JESUS Film Project®, Open Doors, and Missionary Ventures International will share the impact of Run for the Son around the world. Party for a Cause - Sorry Souls MC Saturday, June 24, 2017 – 1 PM -11 PM Martinsburg Moose Acres 1063 Douglas Groove Rd. Martinsburg, WV. 25405 Autism Speaks - Light it up Blue $20 Per Person Bike Raffle for 2002 Sportster - $25.00 Ticket Basket Raffles and 50/50 Bands include - The Jokers, New Found Deal, Fogg, Walker Road and Swift Current Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic
Scrappy, a local beachgoer, couldn’t even get a second look from any of the girls on the beach. So he headed over to Razor, at the lifeguard tower, to see if he had any advice for him. “Dude, it’s obvious,” said Razor. “You’re wearing those gnarly old swimming trunks that make you look like an old geezer. They’re majorly outta’ style. Your best bet is to get yourself a Speedo— say, two sizes too small—and drop a potato inside it. You’ll have all the babes you can handle, dude.” The following weekend, Scrappy hits the beach with his brandspanking-new tight-ass neon green Speedo and his potato, and it’s not long before he approaches Razor at the lifeguard tower once more. “For cryin’ out loud,” yells Scrappy, “it’s worse than before! Everyone on the beach acts disgusted as I walk by—covering their faces, turning away, laughing! What’s wrong now?” “Jeez, Scrap!” shrieks Razor, “The potato goes in front, dude!” ____________________________________________________ A Doctor was performing rounds at the hospital one morning and while checking up on a patient named Bubba, he asked ... ‘So how’s your breakfast this morning, Bubba?’ ‘It’s pretty good except for the Kentucky Jelly.
I aint never had no jelly like that and I’m born and raised in Kentucky. The Doctor asked to see the jelly and Bubba produced a foil packet labeled ‘KY Jelly.’ ____________________________________________________ Thibodeau and Boudreau were hunting when Boudreau grabs his chest and falls to the ground, Thibodeau whips out his cell phone, calls 911 and tells the operator, “I think Boudreau is dead! What should I do?” The operator, in a calm soothing voice says, “Just take it easy and follow my instructions. First, let’s make sure he’s dead.” There is a silence -- then a shot is heard. Thibodeau’s voice comes back on the line, “Okay, gotcha’, now what?” ____________________________________________________ A woman and a baby were in the doctor’s examining room, waiting for the doctor to come in for the baby’s first exam. The doctor arrived, and examined the baby, checked his weight, and being a little concerned, asked if the baby was breast-fed or bottle-fed. ‘Breast-fed,’ she replied. ‘Well, strip down to your waist,’ the doctor ordered. She did he pinched her nipples, pressed, kneaded, and rubbed both breasts for a while in a very professional and detailed examination. Motioning to her to get dressed, the doctor said, ‘No wonder this baby is underweight. You don’t have any milk.’ I know,’ she said, ‘I’m his Grandma, but I’m sure glad I came...... literally.” ____________________________________________________ At a travel agency in Shanghai, Pervey Pete asked the Chinese attendant if she could escort him on a city tour and asked for her mobile number to confirm. She gave him a big smile, nodded her head and said, “Sex sex sex, wan free sex for tonight .” Pervey Pete very excitedly replied, “Wow, you Chinese women are really hospitable! A guy standing next to him overheard, tapped him on the shoulder and said; “What she really said was: 6-6-6-1-3-6-4-2-9
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Dealers & Shops biker friendly directory
A to Z Cycles 1472 E. Lebanon Rd. Dover, DE 19901 302-632-2272 www.atozcycles.com
All American Harley-Davidson 8126 Old Leonardtown Rd, Hughesville, MD 20637 301-274-5000 www.allamericanharley.com Baltimore Harley Davidson 8845 Pulaski Hwy. Baltimore, MD 21237 410-238-2003 www.hdstore.com Battley Harley Davidson / Battley Cycles 7830 Airpark Road Gaithersburg, MD 301-948-4581 www.battley.com Bayside Harley-Davidson 2211 Frederick Blvd Portsmouth, VA 23704 757-397-5550 www.baysidehd.com Big Daddyz Cycles 2810 George Washington Hwy Hayes, VA 23072 (in Gloucester County) 4 miles over the Coleman 804-642-3436 www.bigdaddyzcycles.com
TG Automotive 8176 Telegraph Road Suite E Severn, MD 21144 443-795-4733 www.tgautomotivemd.com
Jim’s Battery Warehouse Laurel Commerce Center 14721-K Baltimore Ave Laurel, MD 20707 301-604-7333 Old Glory Harley Davidson 11800 Laurel Bowie Road Laurel, MD 20708 www.oldgloryhd.com 301-575-0575
The Twisted Spoke 97 Milford Street Clarksburg, WV 26301 304-326-4644 www.twistedspokeinc.com
Patriot Harley- Davidson 9739 Fairfax Blvd Fairfax, VA 703-352-5400 www.patriothd.com Precision Motorcycle Inc 129 Southgate Ave Virginia Beach, VA 23462 757-248-8004 www.precisionmotorcycle.com Pete’s Cycles 344 Bel Air Rd. Bel Air, MD 21014 410-879-3586 For other locations go to www.petescycle.com
Whirled of Colors Custom Paint & Air Brush Studios 116 Roesler Road Glen Burnie, MD 21060 410-553-0953 Zipper’s Performance Products Elkridge, Maryland 410-579-2828 www.ZippersPerformance.com
Bars & Restaurants
Sunset Cycles 9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy Decatur Business Center Units 208-209 Ocean City, MD 21044 443-520-6005
Apehanger’s Bar & Grill 9100 Crain Hwy. Bel Alton, Maryland 301-753-1650 Bryans & Brent’s Place 229 N. River Street Weston, WV 26452 304-997-8722
Damon & Company Sports Bar & Grill 7104 George Washington Mem. Hwy, Rt 17 North Gloucester, VA 804-693-7218 www.damonsbar.com Dockside Restaurant & Tiki Bar 1787 Castlewood Drive Colonial Beach, VA 22443 804-224-8726 www.docksidetikibar.com Hickory House 1137 US Hwy 19 North Jane Lew, WV 26378 304-269-7373 Heavy Hitters 30125 Three Notch Rd Charlotte Hall, MD 20622 (301) 884-3820 Jerry’s Restaurant & Lounge 1102 Sparrow Road Chesapeake, VA 23325 757-424-1086 Find us on Facebook Millstream Inn 5310 Dogwood Rd. Baltimore, MD 21207 410-265-8224 www.millstreamgirls.com
Coleman Power sports 435 South Washington St. Falls Church, VA 22046 703-237-3400 www.wherethepoweris.com Colonial Harley-Davidson 1701 Temple Pkwy Prince George, VA 23875 804-861-4700 www.colonialhd.com CPC Powder Coating 6800 Mid Cities Ave. Beltsville, MD 20705 443-336-2105 Departure Bike Works 5216 Hull Street Richmond, VA 23224 804-231-0244 www.departure.com
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Seabreeze / Swampy’s 27130 S. Sandgates Rd Mechanicsville, MD 301-373-5217 Second Chance Saloon 5888 Robert Oliver Place Columbia, MD 21045 443-545-5844 2ndchancesaloon.com
Weatherholtz Bonding 306 W. Stephens Street Martinsburg, WV 25401 304-267-5888 www.weatherholtzbonding.com
Apparel / Retail Blaze Leather 2239 Randolph Avenue Elkins, WV 26241 681-298-5055 www.Blaze-Leather.com
Maryland Small Arms Range 9801 Fallard Court Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 301-599-0800 www.msar.com
The Tavern 4975 St. Leonard Rd. ST Leonard, MD 20685 410-586-2225 www.thetavernofstleonard.com
Mary’s Bargain Cycle New Castle Farmers Market 110 N. DuPont Hwy. New Castle, DE 19720 302-322-9323
The Woodstock Inn 1514 Woodstock RD Woodstock, MD 21163 410-750-3673 www.woodstockinn.net
Outback Leather 309 Main Street Laurel, MD. 20707 www.mdoutbackleather.com 301-604-2211
Toot’s Bar 23971 Mervell Dean Road Hollywood, MD 20636 301-373-2955
Port Vape & Brew 8 South Main Street Port Deposit, MD 21904 410-652-9223 www.PortVapeBrew.com
Legal Services Law offices of Jay Irwin Block 90 Painters Mill Rd. Suite 131 Owings Mills, MD 21117 410-356-6555 800-875-6554 Carolyn Crowley Injury Attorney 301-676-1120 1-866-523-9529 www.LadyLaw.com Law Offices of Richard M Lester Aid to Injured Motorcyclist’s A.I.M 7334 Topanga Canyon Blvd Ste. 200 Canoga Park, CA 91303 800-531-2424 Offices Nationwide to Help You. Tom McGrath’s Motorcycle Law Group 1-800-321-8969 www.MotorcycleLawGroup.com Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic
Tattoo
Big City Body Art 154 C Lafayette Ave Laurel, MD 20707 240-482-6162 www.bigcitybodyart.com
Lodging
Francis Scott Key Family Resort 12806 Ocean Gateway Ocean City, MD 21842 800-213-0088 www.fskfamily.com Mineral Springs Motel 1 Springs Street Webster Springs, WV 26288 304-847-5305 www.Mineralspringsmotel.net
Insurance Agents Rider Insurance www.Rider.com
Clubs, Organizations & Riding Groups C.E.’s Helping Hands (Old Fields, WV) A non-profit organization enlisting the help of other
good hearted people wanting to contribute to the cause of helping others in need. The organization holds monthly meetings and several fundraising rides every year. Donations are always appreciated. www.cehelpinghands.com
Places of Worship Rushing Wind Ministry Meets 11am Sunday’s Location: Charlotte Hall Farmers Market We are a Biker friendly church focusing on uplifting and encouraging others to follow Jesus Christ. “We believe we live in a real world with real people looking for real answers “ Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic If you would like to be listed in the Biker Friendly Directory, please contact Sales and Marketing or email BFD@ BIGCITYRHINO.com for more information. If you’re Club, Foundation, or Association would like to be listed in our Directory, please email BFD@BIGCITYRHINO.COM with your name and contact information and someone will be in touch with you.
Renegade Classics Biker Outlet 7950 W. Broad Street Merchants Walk Shopping Center Richmond, VA 23294 804-501-BIKE (2453) www.RenegadeClassicsRichmond.com Southern Maryland Pawn 2224 Crain Hwy Waldorf, MD 20601 240-222-3547 www.smdpawn.com Unique Lingerie & More 3065 Leonardtown Rd. Waldorf, MD 20601 301-645-2228
Photography
Bobby Tarowsky 304-797-1470 304-723-8955 www.BobbyTRocks.com
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biker friendly directory
Rips Casual Dining 3809 N. Crain Hwy. Bowie, MD Restaurant: 301-805-5901 Deli: 301-805-5903 Wine & Spirit Shoppe 301-805-5902 www.ripscountryvillage.com
Need to know: Vehicle insurance for riders & questions to ask your provider
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etting out on the road puts riders at the mercy of other motorcyclists, drivers and possibly poor road and weather conditions. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think riding is dangerous. But the unfortunate fact is that many of us will be involved in some type of accident one day. While insurance can’t prevent an accident, making sure you have the proper insurance coverage is the best way to ensure that you – and your bike – are protected after the fact. When full coverage isn’t enough The term ‘full coverage’ can be misleading because it doesn’t necessarily mean the policy will cover everything in full in the event of an accident. Full coverage typically includes all the major types of coverages your provider offers. But, some insurance companies define ‘full coverage’ differently. What’s more important is how much coverage you bought. If you also bought the minimum amount of coverage (a coverage limit of $25,000, for example), you will most likely receive only the minimum limits for your injury, regardless of how serious it is or the verdict you receive in court. Understanding policy limits If you’re in an accident and the other motorist is at fault, their insurance will surely pay out, but that doesn’t mean it’ll cover all the costs. The other motorist’s insurance coverage will only pay up to their policy limit, and if they’re like most, they bought the minimum amount of insurance their state requires. For example, the minimum amount of insurance required in Georgia is $25,000. Regardless of how serious the injuries or expensive the damages, if the other motorists’ policy limit is $25,000, their insurance is only required to pay a maximum of that amount. How can I ensure I’m covered? This is where uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverages come in. UM coverage protects you if you’re injured by someone who doesn’t have insurance at all. If you purchase UM coverage, your insurance company will pay you up to your limits of coverage for injuries caused by an uninsured motorist. What’s more common are accidents involving motorists who have insurance, just not enough to cover the expenses of a serious accident. That’s when you need UIM coverage. Think of UIM coverage as a “supplemental” insurance to cover the costs 60
the other person’s insurance won’t. In other words, if you have $200,000 in UIM coverage, you’ll have at least $200,000 to compensate yourself for injuries caused by a motorist without enough insurance. Talk to your to your insurance provider. Start by asking them to go over the specifics of your policy: How do they define ‘full coverage?’ What types of coverages do you have and how much is your current policy limit? Add UM and UIM coverage if you don’t already have it. While additional coverages may cost more, pricing varies from one insurance agency to another and factors like driving record, age and location can lower the costs. You may be surprised at how little it costs to increase the coverage available to you. In fact, the more UM and UIM coverage you buy, the less expensive it gets. Shop around to find out how much additional coverages and increased policy limits will cost you. It will be far less expensive than being seriously injured in an accident and not having enough coverage available to you. While there’s no hard and fast rule on policy types and coverages, at the Motorcycle Law Group, we recommend riders have no less than a total of $500,000 in coverage to ensure they’re protected and aren’t at the mercy of other motorists without enough insurance. As always, if you have any questions about insurance, your state’s regulations or any other topic related to riders, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Matt Danielson McGrath, Danielson, Sorrell & Fuller The Motorcycle Law Group 1-800-321-8968 Matt@MotorcycleLawGroup.com MotorcycleLawGroup.com Matt Danielson is a partner at the Motorcycle Law Group, a personal injury law firm whose attorneys all ride motorcycles and practice in VA, VW, GA, NC and SC. Matt is also a lobbyist, adjunct professor and works with motorcycle rights organizations around the country.
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Thunder Roads® Mid-Atlantic
Dedicated to protecting the rights of injured motorcyclists. We ride so we understand. If you’ve been injured through no fault of your own, call the Motorcycle Law Group.SM
1-800-321-8968 www.MotorcycleLawGroup.com Licensed in Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia. Thunder Roads®Mid-Atlantic
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