The O'Sullivan Motorcycle Law Firm Motorcycle Giveaway Benefiting BikerDown!
Register FREEfor a chance to win! a 2014 Harley-Davidson Dyna Wide Glide FXDWG Benefit for:
Sponsored by:
Scott O’Sullivan, Motorcycle Lawyer
Enter & official rules @ www.Osullivan-law-firm.com/contest Entry forms can also be found at all events in which BikerDown Colorado participates, organizes, or has a booth presence including: • Two-Wheel Tuesdays • Cruizin’ Colfax events • Colorado Springs Swap Meet • Tejon Bike Fest • Realities Ride for Kids See BikerDown.org for up-to-date event listings. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Approximate retail value of prize is $16,000. Winner must claim motorcycle in Denver - delivery of prize not included. Winner announced Fall 2015. Exact date to be announced.
Scott O'Sullivan has been helping injured riders since 1996. Call him today for immediate help in dealing with the insurance companies, so you can focus on healing and getting your life back together.
Personal Injury Law Firm 600 Ogden Street Denver, Colorado 80218
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THUNDER ROADS® Magazine COLORADO Published by Flying Hound Press, L.L.C. 7477 W. Layton Way Littleton, Colorado 80123 720-458-3134 www.thunderroadscolorado.com feedback@thunderroadscolorado.com
ABATE..................................................................... 4 Adventure Hermit.................................................... 6 Behind The Lens................................................... 12 Exploring Your Friction Zone................................. 14 Checking The Bike................................................ 16 Calendar................................................................ 18 Events................................................................... 20 Veteran’s Drive & Patriot Way............................... 22 Ladies Up Front..................................................... 24 Skin Art.................................................................. 27 Rider Ergonomics.................................................. 28 Tasty Recipes........................................................ 29 Newsbytes............................................................. 30 Biker Friendly Directory......................................... 32 Joker’s Wild........................................................... 33 Thunder Cam........................................................ 34
EDITORS Patrick J. McCauley “5” President and Senior Editor Patrick@thunderroadscolorado.com Carrie McCauley Vice President and Editor Carrie@thunderroadscolorado.com PHOTOGRAPHERS Vickie Jo Mullin Vickie@thunderroadscolorado.com
PROPS
Wayne Madison wayne@thunderroadscolorado.com
Thunder Cam: Vickie Jo Mullin, Julie Powell, Carrie McCauley
ON THE COVER
ADVERTISING AND DISTRIBUTION REPRESENTATIVES Western Slope Chris Blumke chrisb@thunderroadscoloraodo.com (303)478-2335 Greater Metro Denver Area Toby Schmidt tobyb@thunderroadscolorado.com (720)829-7954 LAYOUT & DESIGN Meredith Hancock / Hancock Graphics mhancockgraphics@gmail.com NATIONAL FOUNDERS Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon 1528 Matlock Drive Chapmansboro, TN 37035 Thunder Publishing LLC, Offices 615-792-0040 thunderroadsfounders@yahoo.com www.thunderroadsmagazine.com ©2015 Flying Hound Press, LLC. All Rights Reserved. No part of the content may be reproduced without written permission. Publisher assumes no responsibility and is not liable for errors beyond the cost of space occupied by the error, slander by any group or individual, failure to produce any issue as scheduled, 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/contributors are their own, and do not necessarily represent the policy of Thunder Road Magazine® Colorado, Thunder Publishing. Publisher does not promote the abuse of alcohol or other drugs.
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Photographer: Vickie Jo Mullin Models: Faiz Khan, Kimberly Gouveia Motorcycle: Faiz Khan “Zeus” Custom one piece molded Softail frame by Ken Miller Customs Chrome S&S 124 ci EVO motor S&S carburetor tuned and jetted for the elevation in Denver Jim’s six speed transmission Performance machine ‘hooligan’ wheels (18 in rear, 21 front) Performance machine controls Performance machine brake calipers. Pro One forks Legends air ride suspension (smooth) Headwinds headlamp Odyssey Deep cycle Battery Oil tank underneath seat Velocity stack with cone filter Performance machine hydraulic clutch Billet 4 U 4” open primary and shift/brake controls Custom Paint by Mike Learn. Carlini 1.5” handlebars and risers Custom made stainless hydraulic brake and clutch line from AAI Barnett platinum internal throttle line and exile internal throttle assembly Matching grips, rigid footpegs and shifter pegs from Accutronix. Custom Side Mount license plate. Custom hand stitched seat. Martin Bros Slickstas II 2-into-1 pipe Metzler 240 tire in rear with matching 120 front
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pril is here and everyone is getting excited about the warm weather that should be on the way to us here at the foot of the Rockies.
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up Front. We also have several other things for you to check out including Behind the Lens with our very own Vicki Jo Mullin and her most recent photoshoot.
We want your feedback
This month, I wanted to talk a bit about Motorcycle
Please email us and let us know what you think and what you want to see at feedback@thunderroadscolorado.com or 720-458-3134.
Awareness. We have seen some good things in the past several years coming from CDOT and other organizations and states illuminating their highway signs with slogans
Add your ride, rally or run to our free events listing page
such as “Look twice, save a life” and “Motorcycles are everywhere.” Personally, I think things like that help us to get the message out there to those that aren’t paying attention that we are there with them on the road.
It
Send us your event information whether on-Road or off-road, rides, runs, rallies and events for all types of motorcycles and three wheelers. We will list it free in our events listing for that month! events@thunderroadscolorado. com or 720-458-3134.
doesn’t seem to help enough. I personally have had motorists on their phones and not paying attention try to drive me out of my lane and encroach on my space and most of us seem to have similar stories of near mishap
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when riding. May will be Motorcycle Safety Awareness month, and that is a good month to start a push for awareness since there will be more of us on the road then. I wonder though, would anything really help us to become less invisible to the distracted minivan drivers out there? We will bring you news of anything we hear about that might help, let us know if you think of something to help keep the motorcycles and riders safer out there. Thanks again for picking up this month’s edition of Thunder Roads Colorado. We are proud to bring you Colorado’s Motorcycle Magazine. Patrick “5” www.thunderroadscolorado.com
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ADVENTURE HERMIT
I
40 PASSES IN 40 HOURS
n 1973, I was maturing into the ripe-old age of 3. At approximately the same, time halfway around the world in London, a virile young man named Ted Simon was celebrating his 42nd birthday in London. Over the next 4 years he would traverse, approximately, 78,000 miles and visit 45 countries. In the meantime, I would traverse from diapers into Captain America Underoos! He would write about his adventures of passing through war zones and revolutions, being taken in by kings and paupers and sitting in a Brazilian prison where he was suspected of being a spy. He would patiently describe his experiences as he waited weeks for critical parts to be delivered to the middle of nowhere. Perhaps he dreamt of a day when a service could deliver things that absolutely had to be there overnight! But then again, that speed would have taken away from the adventure. Rushing is often the enemy 6 Thunder Roads Magazine速 Colorado
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of the explorer. It is only when we choose to pause, or are forced to, that our eyes, bellies and senses are rewarded with unexpected and extraordinary delights. Six years after he began his journey, Ted Simon’s seminal work, Jupiter’s Travels was released upon the world in 1979. At the time, I was nine years old and deeply obsessed with motorcycles; aware of the book, but not nearly patient enough to sit down and read it. That time would come 25 years later when it was reintroduced to me by the Scottish born actor Ewan McGregor and his English pal, Charley Boorman. They were so inspired by what Ted accomplished that they set out to make a documentary, loosely following in Ted’s tiretreads around the world. The result was the wild successfully motorcycle mini-series the Long Way Around. Their experience was virtually identical, with only minor exceptions. Ewan and Charlie had support vehicles, video cameras, Kevlar gear, extra bike parts, mechanics and state of the art BMW Adventure motorcycles. Ted was similarly equipped, he brought along a camera with something called “film” inside of it. His motorcycle was . . . Well, if you ever have the pleasure of passing through the English County of Hampshire, stop into the village of Beaulieu and visit the National Motor Museum. There you can see Ted’s Triumph Tiger 100. Not exactly the picture of modern day adventure motorcycling that one would expect, but a thing of beauty. The inspiration for hundreds, if not thousands of people to ride around the world, or at least dream about it on a weekend ride away from the daily grind. This satirical comparison is in no way meant to disparage what Ewan and Charlie accomplished. They too shared a desire of traveling the world by motorcycle, overcoming fears and shrinking the differences between cultures through interaction and understanding. Yes, they perhaps had more means and support, but these are just semantics. So often, we stop ourselves from accomplishing what we most desire, because we are fearful. We mask the devil of fear with excuses, such as lack of money, not enough time, commitments, etc.; but the truth is we are afraid to fail, so we simply “do not do.” Yoda must be so disappointed in us. I have often let this devil slow me down, but I do my best to fight back. When I do, I have never regretted going for it. Things do not always work out as planned, but I have learned to embrace the changes as they occur as opposed to fight them; sometimes through Zen like control and other times through Jack Daniels. It was with a little bit of both, that I was one day inspired to purchase a Triumph 900 Scrambler. I wanted to explore, but I wanted simplicity. I had become caught up in the gear, the technology and what was “needed” to ride off-road. The truth was I needed an attitude adjustment. In a world of “more cowbell,” what I had a fever for was . . . “LESS cowbell.”
via Triumph! Even if it meant leaving my BMW r1200 GSA, considered by many to be the elite adventure motorcycle in the garage. The Triumph was elegantly simple, with a can do attitude and a gorgeous design. Triumphs, Indians and Harley Davidsons, were the types of bikes that WWII veterans returned to the United States to ride, as a way to stand apart, but also to band together as brothers. In this way, the Triumph was my time machine. I felt a connection with the spirit of the veterans I had seen in so many black and white photos, racing through the woods on heavy, strong and bulky machines. Not letting anything stop them from going where they wanted to go.
The Scramblers 900-twin engine is powerfully flawless for climbing Colorado’s elevations, even without the aid of modern fuel injection. But it is just as suited for fire roads and trail riding; although you would be hard pressed to find that corroborated in any brochure. It looks like a gorgeous street bike, albeit with knobby tires, but with its high pipes just under my right thigh, I knew it was meant to climb rocks! I immediately began looking for ways to push the limits of the Steve McQueen almost outwitting the Germans, by jumping machine and myself. his Triumph T6 over barbed wire, followed by the image of a goateed Ted astride his Triumph, wearing work gloves, Which leads me to the year 2010. Thirty-seven years after pilot goggles, and a fleece collared flying jacket were all Ted Simon took his Triumph around the world I made plans to the inspiration I needed to inspire my own off-road journey www.thunderroadscolorado.com
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conquer 40 Colorado Mountain passes in 40 hours because I had turned 40! I planned a route that would allow me to cover as many paved and unpaved passes in the most efficient period of time. With over 200 passes documented in Colorado, I figured it should be relatively easy. So in in September, I set off at 4:30 AM from Lakewood, CO for two days of picturesque riding and Pass Bagging. Soon after I left town I had my first mishap and on pavement no less. While taking a photo, I neglected to properly secure the bike and rolled backwards. Tumbling off the bike as we both hit he ground. Only my pride was injured, but the bike was not as lucky. I broke off the front left foot peg. After a quick moment of shock, I collected myself and thought to replace it with the non-retractable rear foot peg. Crisis averted, I was back on the road. I rode for several hours, and bagged several passes, including Tennessee, Cottonwood and Tincup before tempting fate once again. I had just finished traveling up several miles of wooded trail, part of the Sherrod Loop, before reaching my final ascent up Tomichi Pass, from apparently the “wrong side.” The trail was nothing but rocks. No dirt to be seen. I walked a bit of it before making the fateful decision to go for it. I only made it about 100 feet before my front wheel went right and everything else, including me, headed left. I shifted out from under the bike and assessed the damaged. This time,
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the shifter broke clean off and the clutch snapped in half. I felt like it was a not so subtle cue to call it quits. I had covered many passes, but I knew it was not enough to cover 40 in the time I had left. If I jumped on main roads I could be home in less than 4 hours. I lay next to the bike contemplating my next move. Finally I reached a decision and common sense lost out. I dug out some electrical tape, the lesser appreciated cousin of duct tape, and I “MacGyver’d” a foot shifter using a stick as a splint. As for the clutch, I was able to grab what was left of the metal with two fingers. After about 15 minutes and a 60-point turn, I managed to get the bike upright and facing
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downhill. I eventually made it back down to the dirt area and stopped next to the sign that warned me not to go up in the first place. I decided going home, just yet, was not an option. Even if I could not cover all 40 passes in 40 hours, I could still enjoy the ride. I decided to press further south, towards Gunnison. On my way, I decided to bag one more pass and detoured up Waunita Pass. It ended up being my 14th and final pass of the trip. I eventually made it to Lake City for the evening, but well after everything had closed. A key was waiting for me at the Matterhorn Motel. My evening meal was an energy bar and some cashews I found in my pocket. Two showers later, one to warm up and one to get clean, I was fast asleep. The next morning, I got up feeling pretty good after the previous days disappointments. I was no longer on a time crunch so I waited for sunlight and headed to the Tic Toc Diner (rumor has it, the Tic Toc has since relocated to Gunnison) for a monster breakfast complete with biscuits and gravy. I planned to meander home on paved roads. Then the check came, signaling the end of the meal. As paid my tab, I realized I was not quite ready for the end of my trip. Before I had time to talk myself out of it, I was headed into the Alpine Loop to summit Engineer Pass. As I rode, I passed through Capitol City, established in 1877. It once had a population of 400 people and hopes of becoming the capital of Colorado. Losing out to Denver, it is now littered with the skeletons of a few homes and has only ghosts for caretakers. Dark rain clouds began to appear to the East, the direction home, so logic dictated I head in the
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opposite direction. Cruising through the tunnels of golden aspens was beautiful but shorted lived, as I once again came across some fairly rocky conditions. I stood up on the pegs and managed to keep the bike upright and in return it didn’t buck me off. I passed some hard-core dirt bikers riding sensible, smaller, lighter machines. Each gave me a surprised headshake and a thumbs-up at the sight of the Triumph in a place it didn’t seem to belong. Minutes later, after a sweat drenched rock wrestling match that ended in a draw, I stopped to read a sign. I was informed that the road ahead would “get difficult” and only 4x4’s should pass. I looked back on the trail I had just wrestled with and wondered how much tougher it really could get. I wiped the sweat out of my eyes, and began to remount. It was then that I noticed that I was no longer riding two-up. My luggage had departed somewhere down the trail and out of sight. It was evident that rain or not, I was going to be heading east, and directly into it. About a mile down the trail my bag was patiently waiting for me by the side of the road. I strapped it back on and continued the challenging descent back into Lake City. I was going slowly, but unintentionally fast enough to catch up with the rain. Perhaps not a victory but it felt like something, after so many unexpected challenges. As the rain increased, I was convinced that staying on pavement was a wise move. For most of the six hour ride home, the rain as my companion. I arrived home almost 36 hours from when I had first left. I only bagged 14 passes. I was disappointed, but still exhilarated by what the Triumph and I had accomplished. I was no Ted Simon. I hadn’t circumnavigated the globe. Hell, I hadn’t even been covered much more than 500 miles, but the expedition that the Scrambler and I undertook made me feel 10 Thunder Roads Magazine® Colorado
exhilarated and ready to take on whatever was next. The words, “Don’t try. Do” echoed in my head. Next time Yoda . . . Next time. Epilogue: A few weeks later, after getting the bike back into shape, and tweaking my route, I tried again. This time it was early October. When it comes to weather, anything can happen in Colorado in October. As if on cue, the snow came almost immediately as I began my second attempt. Berthoud and then Loveland passes were sheets of ice. Right out of the gate I was making terrible time, but I kept pushing on. I managed to keep the bike and myself in one piece. Darkness came as I reached the 34-hour mark. Unfortunately, many of the passes are barely, if at all marked. Without, visual evidence, I was no longer motivated to take such risks, especially in the dark. Despite the snow, I made it much further than my first attempt, completing 37 passes; the final one being Bigelow Divide. I reluctantly headed home, riding on a dirt road in almost complete darkness, just north of Walsenburg,CO . I followed lights in the distance that I hoped would lead to a town and eventually pavement. As I got closer the lights started circling in the starless night sky. No trespassing signs began to appear along barb wired fences. It was only as I reached pavement did I finally see the sign for the USP Florence ADMAX, a maximum security US Penitentiary. I wondered if anyone inside could have seen me riding through the trails behind the prison. Was it even legal to be where I was? Did they too dream of Steve McQueen and great escapes? I didn’t take the time to find out. I rode swiftly, eventually reaching town, fueling up and heading home. It was no around the world adventure, but it was an experience that I will never forget on a bike that deserves far more credit.
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Behind the Lens
Photos by Vickie Jo Mullin
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T
his month, we visited Infinity Custom Rydz for our photoshoot. If you are looking for a true personal touch, you could not pick a more comfortable place to discuss designing your bike with MORE; More Power, More Comfort, and More Uniqueness as a true piece of art. Whether you are choosing to bring your ride to a whole new level or to bring a dream show-case bike into reality, you will have a found a hidden gem on the rise by taking the time to set an appointment with Faiz. Faiz – Pronounced like Fries with-out the “R” What is a Faiz? Or better yet, who is a Faiz? He is an Engineer with an art background who loves to ride. In a recent conversation I had with one of our editors we talked six degrees of separation, in other words we are all separated from others by 6 people. After our discussion, I thought about this and realized how true I found this statement to be when I met Faiz. He knows all my riding buddies, on a first name basis, yet we have never met--until today. Walking into his garage shop, the first thing I noticed, besides the cool black and white checker flooring, was the setup. Made to please for presentation and work flow all tied together seamlessly and solidly anchored by his ‘baby’ sitting proud on the bike lift in the middle. Some may think Faiz’s shop is small but this compact space is utilized and styled for both work and show. You could almost say the same for the bikes he designs; everything about each bike is utilized and styled for the ride and the show. Of the bikes in the shop today most were for riding and one baby blue beauty echoing some green from around the black designs overlaying curves that entice you look closer. This bike was purchased and gently restored to its beauty. I asked who did the paint on the sparkling blue beauty. Mike Learn Studios, gee Mike you are everywhere! (deservingly so). Custom Rydz has only been in business for a year, yet awards are already filling their glass case, including the 2013 best of show at Thunder in the Rockies! Since I was there, I couldn’t help but bring up my quest for a new seat for my own bike up while zooming in on some eye-catching detail on a seat on one of the Harleys
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currently in the shop. Tossing out names of seats I have had people recommend, pretending I knew what I was talking about, the calm reply of “Bring your bike and let’s find one for you”, washed over me like gee I’m not on my own here of buying something out of a catalogue! Wow, something so small and yet I will be going back to find a seat for my own slightly humble ride next to the bikes in the shop. But enough about the bikes for a brief moment, I also want to send a Thank you to our Model Kimberly a teacher by day and a rising star on the local Band scene as well as a model. Kimberly’s gorgeous red curly hair and super high heeled boots made for some fun posing with the bikes. Hope you find the photographs from the shoot to be unique and enjoyable to soak in for a little eye candy while dreaming up where to take your bike for its next ride. Bill, Faiz’s partner in getting it done is the quiet one, but the two share a bond of taking a motorcycle and bringing the heart and soul out of it. Getting the rider to fit with their bike safely and comfortably is the core philosophy of every bike that comes to the motorcycle studio. Infinity Custom Rydz can be contacted by friending Faiz Khan on Facebook.
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Exploring your Friction Zone Exploring your friction zone… sounds kind of filthy doesn’t it? No, I am not talking about THAT friction zone… The friction zone I’m referring to is when you let out your motorcycle’s clutch lever, once you’ve put the bike in gear, and start to release the clutch lever – from the point when the motorcycle wants to start moving forward until you have fully released your clutch lever and are moving along smoothly, that is the friction zone I am talking about. We all need to learn to use our clutch lever properly to achieve a smooth take off, smooth stops and smoother shifts – whether upshifting or downshifting. Being able to use the friction zone with control really ups your cool factor when others are watching you take off or stop and you make it look effortless as you glide away with no surging, lurching, stall outs or other unsightly mistakes. Some of those common mistakes will land you and your motorcycle on the ground. Not
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cool at all and embarrassing at best! Every time I ride a motorcycle that I have not ridden before, I spend a couple of minutes keeping my feet on the ground and gently revving the engine with the throttle while slightly opening up the clutch lever. I rock in place a few seconds or more, this gives me a feel for how the motorcycle clutch, friction zone and throttle work together to get it going. Back in the day we used to call this ‘slipping the clutch’ to achieve smoothness. It only takes a bit of practice to use that friction zone and let the clutch out more smoothly. If you are lurching and stalling the motorcycle - don’t plan on picking up your feet right away. You can try allowing the clutch to open enough to walk the bike back and forth across a safe, preferably empty parking lot. We call this ‘power walking’. Don’t push the motorcycle with your legs – use the power of the clutch’s friction zone and simultaneously a small roll on the throttle to pull you across. If you are still stalling out
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– try giving a little bit more throttle. After some practice, let the clutch out a bit more and walk faster, pull in the clutch lever and walk slower. Vary your speed by how far out you let the clutch lever open, or by how close to the grip you hold it. You don’t want to fully release the clutch during this practice, but keep it somewhere in the friction zone while practicing. When you engine brake by down shift and letting out the clutch, you can use your friction zone, holding the clutch at the mid-way point to avoid any abrupt jerks while slowing. During any slow tight maneuvers, like making a u-turn at a dead end in a parking lot, use of the friction zone can come in handy. Extensive use of the friction zone is also called for in the Top Gun Motorcycle Competitions that occur around the country every summer. These slow ride-tight circles-ride the plank-alternating front and back wheels around the cones, and other riding tricks, all require major control of the clutch lever, throttle and rear brake using the
friction zone. In Colorado, we have the Blue Knights Police Top Gun Competition which is held every June in Lakewood. Officers come from around the country to compete for the Top Gun Honors and believe me they are using the heck out of their friction zone and clutch power. If you’ve never seen one of the competitions, you should definitely put it on your list of things to do next summer. You’ll be able to check out how well these men in blue expertly ride – while using their clutch and friction zone skills to the maximum. You might even pick up a few pointers on improving your own ride while watching these awesome professional riders. With a little practice you too can learn to be competent using your own motorcycle’s friction zone. As to exploring other kinds of friction zones – well you’re on your own there! Jasmine Bluecreek Clark www.bluecreekmotorcycletraining.com
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APRIL MRA 2015 New Rider Race School Apr 3 at 6:00pm to Apr 4 at 5:00pm High Plains Raceway 93301 E Us Highway 36, Deer Trail, Colorado 80105 So you want to Road Race? Welcome to the exciting introduction to road racing. For the rare few of us, nothing can replace the exhilaration and challenge road racing can provide. Road racing is one of those rare sports that can humble the “fastest street rider” in no time. The racetrack is the ultimate arbitrator of who is truly the fastest motorcyclist by rewarding a riderís own skills and abilities without the annoying distractions and dangers public roads present. The Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) will be holding its 2015 Race School, April 3rd and 4th. This is a great opportunity for new riders wanting to get licensed or racers wanting a pre-season refresher. Classroom session will be in the Fay Myers Motorcycle World Clubhouse on Friday April 3rd. Doors open at 6pm, class starts at 7pm. Fay Myers Motorcycle World 9700 E Arapahoe Rd Greenwood Village, CO 80112 The track portion of the school will be held in conjunction with a lapping day at High Plains Raceway, Saturday April 4th. Licensed racers can ride during the open lapping session and race school students will be coached by instructors during the MRA session. Race school students will practice starting, braking and cornering drills, and work on race lines. Students need to be unloaded and ready to go by 7:30am. Weíll meet for a 7:30 riders meeting, tech the bikes and be on track at 9:30. High Plains Raceway 93301 E US Highway 36 Deer Trail, CO 80105 http://highplainsraceway.com/ For more information please contact New Rider Director Jeff Brown: 303-210-0425 or jeff@12voltracing.com The Motorcycle Roadracing Association 20 Thunder Roads Magazine® Colorado
is 501(c)(7) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting safe and competitive motorcycle road racing events for enthusiasts in Colorado and the surrounding area. For more information go to http://www.mra-racing.org/ Easter Hop / Poker Run 5th AnnualJoin Event --------------------------------------------------------Saturday, April 04, 2015 from 10:00 am until 7:00 pm Location: Hawley Tavern 2601 W. Hampden Ave Sheridan, Colorado 80110 Get you bunny ears ready! The 5th annual Easter Hop/Poker run is set! SIgn up and Final are at the same destination, so backseats are easier to give/get! Proceeds benefit Mountain Pet Rescue Prizes for Best Easter hat, and best easter shoes! lol The stops in between are not set in stone yet, so I will add that information as I have it. This is always such a fun ride! So come join us! Website: http://www.bikerornot.com/ Event/116379 --------------------------------------------------------Veterans Benefit Above the Clouds April 18, 2015 Colorado Springs and Woodland Park, Colorado Sponsored by Special Forces MC, The Historic Ute Inn and Michael’s Motorcycle Works Location: American Cycles, 312 W Fillmore Street in Colorado Springs, CO 80907. Registration begins at 9:00 am and the motorcycles go out at 10:30 am. The ride will go to Woodland Park where there will be a bike show, vendors, veterans support groups, music, food, and more. The ride in bike show will be held at Ute Pass Cultural Center, 210 East Midland Avenue in Woodland Park. all bikes must be ridden to the show. Bikes will be judged in various categories and awards will be given to winners. The ride in bike show will be held at Ute Pass Cultural Center, 210 East Midland Avenue in Woodland Park. all bikes must be ridden to the show.
April 2015
Bikes will be judged in various categories and awards will be given to winners. Phone: (719) 687-3567 Website: https://www.facebook.com/ events/1480378778842444/ ---------------------------------------------------------B.A.C.A. Rocky Mountain Chapter 3rd Annual Chili Cook Off Sunday, April 19, 2015 from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM Tasting open from 1PM - 3PM Raising awareness of National Child Abuse Prevention Month $5 Try One! $10 Try Them All! Proceeds benefit the Rocky Mountain Chapter and Denver Area Abused Children Location: The Watering Bowl 5411 Leetsdale Dr Denver, CO Phone: 303-507-3095 Website: bacarmc.org Email: events@bacarmc.org -------------------------------------------------------Spring Fling Parking Lot Party at The Hawg Back Saloon April 25 at 10:00am - 10:00pm Spring Fling Parking Lot Party at The Hawg Back Saloon. We will have up to 30 vendors in our parking lot. Live music all day, with Steve Crenshaw headlining, look for future announcements for other bands. Miller Coors and Indian Motorcycles are anchor sponsors this year. The Hawg Belly Deli will be providing their superb BBQ. We will have several beer tubs in the parking lot to help you stay hydrated all day. Bryan Jones Photography will be on site looking for models and bikes for next year’s calendar. Just show up to be chosen. This promises to be “The” Spring Event, don’t miss out. Location: The Hawg Back Saloon 15800 W. Colfax Ave. Golden, Co. 80401 --------------------------------------------------------Colorado Bikers Motorcycle Ride To The Wild Animal Sanctuary Saturday, April 25, 2015 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM There will be four groups, see below for the Road Captains and their info: (East Sterling Group) Lorie and Roger Hessler will start at Village Inn in Sterling for breakfast/coffee. Kickstands up at 10.30 am. Then Hwy 6 to Brush then Hwy 34 to Fort Morgan to Daves RT34 Diner for lunch at 11.30. Clutches out at 12.30. Then DLD to Wiggins, hwy 52 south, then west to The www.thunderroadscolorado.com
Wild Animal Sanctuary from 2pm - 4pm (North Ft Collins Group) Robert Balzli will have breakfast/coffee at 9:30 am at The Hideout Patio Bar & Grill 1903 East Lincoln Avenue Fort Collins, CO Kickstands up at 10:45 am Then Lunch at 12pm at Jerry D’s 604 8th Street, Dacono, CO Kickstands up at 1:30 pm. Then The Wild Animal Sanctuary from 2pm - 4pm (Central Denver Group) Andi DePoyster “MAY” have a breakfast at 10 am at Sweetwater Station Unit N2 Standley Shores Shopping Center, 9975 Wadsworth Parkway Westminster, CO. Kickstands up at 11:15 am Lunch at 12pm at Jerry D’s 604 8th Street, Dacono, CO Kickstands up at 1:30 pm. (South Monument Group) Robert Burgoyne will have coffee/breakfast at Rosie’s Diner in Monument starting at 9am 411 Hwy 105, Monument, Colorado 80132. Kickstands are up at 10am
Lunch at 12pm at Jerry D’s 604 8th Street, Dacono, CO Kickstands up at 1:30 pm 2pm-4pm Tour at The Wild Aninmal Sanctuary. ($15 a person) 1946 County Road 53, Keenesburg, CO Wear purple and orange if you want to support TWAS colors! 150 TWAS pins will be hand out for free at the TWAS door. The cost at The Wild Animal Sanctuary is $15 a person. There is a gift store and donation/adoption available there. Store Link: http://stores. wildanimalsanctuarystore.com/ Location: Jerry D’s 604 8th Street, Dacono, CO 80514 Phone: 303-775-9867 Website: https://www.facebook.com/ events/1445730169009002/ --------------------------------------------------------
MC-1 Honor Run Sunday, May 3, 2015 from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM MC-1 HONOR RUN 2nd Annual MC-1 Motorcycle Ride This is an annual motorcycle ride to benefit the families of fallen or injured officers. This years ride will benefit the family of Officer John Adsit who was injured in the line of duty. First bike out at 10:00 a.m. $25 per motorcycle Registration fee also provides free entry to Bandimere Speedway at the end of the run. Location: Columbine High School 6201 S. Pierce St. Littleton, CO 80403 email: info@mc1honorrun.com Website: http://WWW.MC1HONORRUN. COM --------------------------------------------------------
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Dear Fellow Veterans and Patriots In the mid-1980’s, the American Ex-POWs decided that they wished to see April 9th, the date during World War II when the largest number of Americans were captured, as National POW/MIA Recognition Day. Due to a variety of impacts and decisions National POW/MIA Recognition Day was moved in 1986 to the third Friday in September. I serve as the Vice Chairman of an annual event in Andersonville, Georgia, site of the National Prisoner of War museum, called “The Ride Home.” This marvelous event takes place on National POW/MIA Recognition Day. Volunteers work year around to raise money to sponsor former prisoners of war and families of those still missing to come to Americus and Andersonville, Georgia, to be honored and have the red carpet rolled out for them in appreciation. This year the event will make special note of the 70th anniversary of the return of our prisoners of war from World War II, the 65th anniversary of the Korean War and the capture of the first American prisoners in the Korean War and the 40th Anniversary of America’s evacuation from Vietnam and the prisoners we abandoned in Southeast Asia. I also serve as Co-National Chairman of the Board for a new POW/MIA organization called Honor Release Return, Inc. This organization is a small think tank of activists working to improve accountability and get answers for the families of the approximately 83,000 U.S. service men and women who are still missing since WWII. Our government has been actively working to recover remains and repatriate the missing in action since the Vietnam War but the effort has been mismanaged, underfunded and kept families at a distance. Congress has investigated and reorganized the government offices in charge of this task several times. About two years ago a report from an internal source led to Congressional hearings, Department of Defense Inspector General investigation and an investigation by the General Accounting Office. It was decided that reorganization was needed to solve some of the problems. An undersecretary of Defense did an
initial investigation leading to a new undersecretary to manage the transition and a special office to lay the ground work for a new structure. In January of this year a transition team was put in place to transition the old organizations into a new one with counsel from family organizations and a few groups like Honor Release Return. The new organization is set to be up and functional in January of 2016. Recently some family organizations were excluded from participation in the process because they questioned some of what the transition team is doing. Communication is beginning to break down and if there isn’t any change it looks like we may end up with a new organizational structure with the same old problems. At this point the government is trying to work to reach a congressionally mandated recovery and identification rate of 200 MIA’s per year. So far the best they have done annually is between 60 and 120. At the rate of 200 per year it could take over 400 years to account for the 83,000 still listed as missing in action. Imagine if it was your loved one who went missing in war and the government said we’ll find them at some point over the next 400 years. Appalling!! The family groups, family members and organizations like Honor Release Return believe this can and should be put on track to be complete within the next 20 years, not 400. At some point at the current rate, the government will quit funding the effort because none of the family members who remember or care will be alive. At the current rate nobody alive on earth will be alive to see the end of accounting for those lost only since WWII. Brave American’s who fought for our freedom and gave their lives will be forgotten and left to rot on foreign soil. Freedom is not free but there are people being paid who show little sensitivity for the sacrifice that has given them freedom. Keep the faith. Thank a vet for the freedoms we still enjoy and support politicians who will bring back the ones we’ve lost. Fly the flag of the people and be proud you’re an American. Hug the families of those still missing because their quest for closure has not ended. Live the good life and ride for those can’t. – Bulldog * My monthly column reflects my personal point of view and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publishers of this magazine, but they, like me, acknowledge the sacrifices made for the privilege of Freedom of Speech, therefore, they gratefully let me rant. Thank you for reading my rants. Hope my opinions don’t offend anyone, but, we all should be grateful for the right to have free opinions. article courtesy Thunder Roads Magazine® Tennessee
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Ladies up Front is a column by and for the women who ride in Colorado both on back and up front. Each month we publish an article written by a lady rider. You will find stories of how these ladies ended up where they are today, with their opinions, strange and funny things that have happened to them, their thoughts, dreams and points of view. Some tell the stories about their journey from the back to the front. Some relate how they came to motorcycles, some are just interesting experiences they have had.
We believe that every woman who rides, be it on the front or on the back, has a story to tell that is worth hearing. When they share their perceptions and knowledge, they often have insight and perspectives that can help us all as we journey forward. Here you will see those experiences and hear of the strength and joy we have found on motorcycles. All ladies are welcome and encouraged to join in and contribute to Ladies up Front. Please contact us at: ladiesupfront@thunderroadscolorado.com
When I was asked to write the Ladies up Front article for Thunder Roads I was grateful for the opportunity to do so. I began the process to collect my thoughts and hopefully bring ideas to fellow women whom want to take the lead. I frequently lead when I ride in groups. Taking the lead is a responsibility, but I am ready to take up that responsibility when I do take the lead. My beginning on bikes is like that of many other men and women riders. I began to ride dirt bikes with my best friend in Middle School in an area known as Lost Acres near Bailey, Colorado. To this day I cherish those memories of dirt biking. My best friend and I both enjoyed the freedom of the mountains and the dirt bikes. I was considered a Tom Boy and most of the friends I was closest to were the guys. I remember telling them I would be the first to have my Harley. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen, life got in my way. But life does happen. My Mom rode on the back of Harley’s and I had the pleasure of being in the back up vehicle on group rides and sometimes on the back of the bike myself but I wanted more. My parents were divorced when I was in Elementary School and having both parents going different directions began their love of Harleys. My Dad in 1996 bought his Springer Softtail and had a custom paint job with a Rams Head. He rode that Bike from Littleton, Colorado to Prudhoe Bay Alaska not once but twice (he rode it and didn’t trailer it). The stories and the photos from those trips inspired me so much. I knew it was my time to get off the back and to grab a hold of the handlebars. So I did. After two kids and one divorce I decided it was time to get my motorcycle endorsement. My second husband (now divorced) was not too thrilled and my kids were concerned. It came down to keep talking about it or just do it. I decided to do it, in my heart and mind I knew this was my destiny. 24 Thunder Roads Magazine® Colorado
I took my training class at “Go For It” in Lafayette, Colorado and I rode my Sportster home afterwards on a Mother’s Day and I haven’t looked back since then. Since that first sportster I am now on my seventh Harley with two currently in my garage. That 1996 Springer Softtail that was once my Dad’s, and a 2012 Street Glide.
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Red River is by far my favorite ride and that run is where I have received the most experience. My Dad led the group and kept me in the pocket with him. I would always be to his right and in the front of the pack. I started leading with him then. If you have taken the ride to Red River on Memorial weekend you well know that LaVeta Pass or Raton Pass can be quite a challenge and that is without even mentioning the wind between Pueblo and Walsenburg. The wind was so strong that most times I felt like I was riding sideways-with the winds trying to catch on my helmet and rip my head off! Well, the weather is always so unpredictable on Memorial Weekend. In fact, I can remember sun, sleet, rain, hail and -oh yes- even snow on Memorial Weekend. Not to mention the obstacles from vehicles-whether items falling off trailers in front of us (coolers, cans, trash bags,) dodging boats on trailers, semis, RVs and people driving that simply have no regard for anyone on the road-including motorcycles.. When we ride, we ride in a group and know the unpredictable can occur so we always have a run vehicle/chase vehicle with a trailer for long trips. Always hoping for the best but preparing for the unexpected. These are things to think of if you are in the lead. This way we have extra fuel, tools and the ability to make sure everyone arrives safe and sound. That chase/run vehicle also allows us to pack our clothes so we can pack the saddle bags with tools for the trip like rain suits, sun screen, leathers, Chapstick, aspirin, extra gloves, basic tools, water,
hand warmers, scarf, cell phone, satchel and I’m sure there is more I haven’t listed. I believe it helps to be prepared. Why am I a woman rider and love to be up front? Great question and I do have many answers but I guess, for the most part, it is that I am in control of my own destiny. I do realize that I have the responsibility for those with me when I am in the lead and some people I ride with even call me Den Mother. Most of the time I ride with men and the fact they ask me to lead is a really big compliment to me and my riding skills. My father has even commented about my ability to ride, not to only me but to others, he has so much pride in my accomplishment. He has given me not only his trust and faith but he has also given me his love and passion--and the 1996 Springer that he has so many memories of, proving his thoughts and faith in me. For those Women who say they always wanted to get their motorcycle endorsement, stop talking about it and take the class to learn how. The class is actually fun. Be comfortable and confident in your abilities, have faith in yourself and when you get your endorsement, always follow your gut. If there comes a time you feel like you shouldn’t be on your bike listen to it. I believe that a woman’s intuition is something you should never question. You shouldn’t be on your bike if it doesn’t feel right. My other advice, is to always be on the defensive, watch everyone, look all directions, but most of all respect the road and enjoy the ride!
HELLO ective I’m also a slaesperson in print. I talk to tens of thousands of prosp talk to? customers every month. How many prospective customers do you Nothing happens if you don’t advertise. Call 720-458-3134 to start talking to your prospective customers
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LIVE MUSIC EVENTS HERE! Email: music@thunderroadscolorado.com
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TATTOO ARTIST - COLIN BENSON TATTOO STOP - PETER TAT-2 STUDIO
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Thunder Roads Magazine速 Colorado 27
RIDER ERGONOMICS
I
have always said that riding a motorcycle should be like wearing your most comfortable pair of jeans….it should just simply fit. I get a fair share of questions from riders looking to customize their bikes, after all our motorcycles are a reflection of our personalities and we have to make them our own. However, I rarely get questions on making the bike fit the rider. They say the motorcycle chooses you and not the other way around. You just know when you sit on a particular bike that this is the bike for you. However, the quick exhilarating ride you took at the dealership, does not mean that bike will be comfortable for the long haul. Take a look at any MOTO GP race and you will notice that the riding position for all riders is near identical. These are by far some of the most skilled riders in the world and the standard posture shown by these riders has become the de facto standard in motorcycle racing. In fact, take a closer look and you will notice that the fit between man and machine is impeccable… as if they were carved out of one piece. In essence, it is the perfect ergonomic position for these riders allowing them to ride these bikes with incredible precision at such high speeds. So applying the same concept to street driven motorcycles, we can surmise that proper ergonomics will make your bike fit you better and increase rider safety. So I would like to suggest that rather than dressing up your bike with accessories and custom parts, start off with making the bike comfortable for you to ride. Once the bike fits you well, that’s when it’s time to personalize it and make it your own. The riding position for a motorcyclist depends on the rider’s body’s geometry (anthropometry) in combination with the geometry of the motorcycle. If this is not properly balanced, it may result in musculo-skeletal disorders for the rider. A common indicator that your bike needs adjustment is frequent neck pains (specifically at the base of the neck) and lower back pain. Other common ailments include shoulder discomfort, nerve compression, and carpal tunnel syndrome (particularly in the hands and wrists). Making the bike fit you is certainly not rocket science but there may be a fair amount of trial and error before you get it just right. There are six key areas to adjust to get the perfect riding position for you. These include the handlebars and grips, geometry of the seat, ride height of the motorcycle,
clutch and brake lever, foot controls and wind protection. The handlebars and grips are crucial to ride comfort and safety. An ideal position is where the handlebars are below the shoulders and the grip allow for a bend at the elbows. The rider should be able to turn full lock with very little lean, if any. Likewise on full lock, the grips should not hit your legs with your feet placed on the floorboards or foot pegs. The grips are also important. They should be the correct diameter and fit your hands well and is comfortable allowing absorption of high frequency buzz, feels good to the touch and is of correct sensitivity to road feedback. The seat is extremely important….as such you see companies specializing in building custom seats to fit the frame of the rider. The aftermarket offers a wide variety of seats for stock bikes and trying on different seats from your retailer will allow you to pick a saddle that is perfect for you. A key point to consider; does the seat allow you to firmly plant both feet on the ground….and not on your tippy toes? If the adjustment is small enough, consider lowering your suspension by an inch or so. Be aware that changing your suspension height also changes how the bike handles so avoid making drastic changes in suspension height. A simple trick to reduce hand discomfort is to angle your brake and clutch levers so that the palm and your fingers follow the same plane as your arm while in the riding position. This creates a neutral position for your wrists, alleviating stress on the wrists, and providing more control on the levers. Most floorboards and foot pegs can be adjusted to accommodate the rider too. Your feet should reside in a comfortable position while on the pegs or the boards. Standard, mid and forward controls as well as floorboards of varying lengths are readily available for your bike. Lastly, consider wind protection. It may not be visually appealing but adding a windshield or a fairing will drastically reduce driver fatigue. If you plan on riding for any prolonged period of time or through any inclement weather, you will want to seriously consider this. Making minor adjustments to the aforementioned items will allow you to get in tune with your bike and make your motorcycle riding experience far more enjoyable. Ride Safe!! Faiz.
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Tasty Recipes All of these recipes have been kitchen tested and biker approved.
MEXICAN SHREDDED CHICKEN:
1 lb chicken breasts 1 can of tomatoes and green chilies 1/2 tsp chili rojo 1/8 tsp cumin 1/8 tsp Mexican oregano 1 clove garlic 3/4 cup of onion, diced 1. place chicken breasts with the can of tomatoes and green chilies, chili rojo, cumin, Mexican oregano, garlic and onion. Add enough water to cover the chicken. 2. Poach the chicken breasts in water until thoroughly cooked - about 10 - 13 minutes 3. Pull out of the poaching liquid and allow to cool. 4. Using two forks, shred the chicken. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STUFFED POBLANO PEPPERS
This recipe started out as a translation from a Mexican cookbook. I have changed the recipe around quite a bit, this includes a new cheese sauce and my Mexican Shredded Chicken that I use for enchiladas and chicken tacos. 1/2 lb Mexican Shredded Chicken 4 Peppers, Poblano 1 1/2 cup Cheese, sharp cheddar grated 1/2 red onion, diced Sauce: 1 Tbs butter 1 Tbs flour 3/4 cup chicken broth 3/4 cup milk, lowfat 1 cup Cheese, sharp cheddar grated 1 1/2 Tbs Taco Seasoning Mix Peppers: 1. Mix chicken, onions and cheese in a bowl. 2. Split pepper down the center where the bottom can rest evenly on a pan 3. Remove seeds and membrane being careful not to open the pepper too much. Sauce: 1. Make a very light brown roux with butter and flour. 2. Add milk and chicken broth. 3. When hot, add cheese and mix into sauce until melted. 4. Add taco seasoning mix and simmer until thick. Cooking: 1. Heat grill on low. Place peppers on a grilling pan and cook for 20 - 25 minutes or until skin is blistered and cheese has melted. 2. Serve immediately with Cheese sauce. Servings: 4 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HAM SLIDERS
These also freeze well, allow them to thaw before you place them into the oven to heat. I love using left over ham for these sandwiches. 4 Tbs soft butter 2 Tbs spicy brown mustard 1/2 medium onion, grated 12 sliced Swiss cheese 3/4 lbs ham slices 12 pretzel rolls 12 pieces aluminum foil 1. Preheat the oven to 350 Degrees. 2. Mix butter, mustard and grated onion together. Spread thinly on both sides of bun. 3. Put ham slices on buns and add 1 slice of Swiss cheese per bun. I put pieces of cheese on both the top and bottom of the sandwich. 4. Place the top of the sandwich down on the aluminum foil sheet and wrap each sandwich separately 5. Bake 15 - 20 minutes at 350 degrees Servings: 6
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CUCUMBER SALAD
3 cucumbers, seeds removed and sliced 1 onion, cut into quarters and sliced 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 pint sour cream 1 tsp garlic salt 1/2 tsp vinegar, white wine 1 Tbs chives black pepper paprika 1. Soak cucumber and onion overnight in ice water and salt. 2. Drain thoroughly. 3. Combine remaining ingredients except paprika and pour over cucumbers and onions. Mix thoroughly and sprinkle with paprika. 4. Allow to sit for two to three hours and allow the flavors to meld. Servings: 10 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ORANGE BUNDT CAKE
Cake: 10 oz (2-1/4 cups) all-purpose flour plus a few tablespoons more for the pan 2 cups sugar measured and then pulsed in the food processor 1-1/2 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp baking soda 6 oz (12 Tbs.) unsalted butter, softened; more for the pan 3/4 cup canola or other mild-flavored oil 1-1/2 Tbs finely minced orange zest - (I use a microplane) 1 Tbs vanilla extract 3/4 cup strained fresh orange juice, fresh squeezed 5 large eggs Glaze: 1/2 cup frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed 1 Tbs unsalted butter, melted 2 Tbs dark rum 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, divided 1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter and flour a 10-inch tube pan or 12-cup bundt pan. 2. To make the cake 3. Sift the flour, sugar, baking powder, and soda into the large bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Add the butter and mix on low speed until fine crumbs form. Change to the whisk attachment. With the machine running on medium speed, whisk in the oil, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and orange juice. Whisk in the eggs one at a time and then increase the speed to high and whisk the batter until light, about 3 min., scraping the sides of the bowl if necessary. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in the cake comes out clean, 45 to 50 min. 4. To make the syrup and glaze 5. While the cake bakes, whisk together in a small bowl the orange juice concentrate, butter, rum, and 1/2 cup of the confectioners’ sugar. When the cake is done, set the pan on a rack to cool for 5 min. 6. With a thin bamboo skewer, poke the cake all the way through to the bottom of the pan about 70 - 100 times. Pour 1/3 cup of the syrup over the cake and let stand for 1 hour before removing the cake from the pan. At this point, you can cover the cake with plastic wrap for up to two days. Cover the remaining syrup with plastic and store at room temperature. 7. When ready to serve, whisk the remaining 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar into the remaining syrup. Set the cake on a rack over a baking sheet and pour the glaze over the cake. Let stand for at least 10 min. before slicing and serving. Servings: 14
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News Bytes
NCOM BIKER NEWSBYTES Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish, National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) ANTI-PROFILING MEASURES SPREAD NATIONWIDE - NCOM-LTF UPDATE: This is one of the most exciting and productive Legislative seasons we have had in a very long time, as a unified community and as a freedom seeking culture. We are moving towards our goal of Critical Mass in establishing a National Movement to end Motorcycle Profiling with eight States in the process of Bill sponsorship, committee hearings or have already passed anti-profiling protection. Once we reach that tipping point, look out Washington D.C.! I met with the Congressional Motorcycle Caucus Co-Chair and discussed a National Anti-Profiling Bill, and he’s willing to listen. Currently from Washington State across the country to New York State and including; California, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Maryland, North Carolina, Missouri, all have motorcycle anti-profiling bills. The NCOM Legislative Task Force is accessible when called upon by any, and willing to assist providing a cohesive plan to help insure success with; “Lessons Learned from Washington State”, Fiscal analysis, Collecting a Pattern of Evidence, Controlling the Message when giving Testimony, all are substantiated documents authored by our own US Defender Commander from Washington and NCOM LTF Vice Chair, Double D, who is willing to travel and provide excellent testimony to accompany the effort from any State. We have launched a campaign Nationwide to “Save the Patch”; the many facets of our network continue to raise funds contributing to the Trademark Defense Fund regarding the Mongols MC patch. It is a Unifying Event for everyone across the country, and it is going to take all of us participating to defeat this discriminatory attack on our patches! As we speak, another case involving the Devils Diciples MC copyrighted patch is under attack as well. LTF members are in strategic meetings to develop a plan to fight this case. A new attitude, a new Mission Statement defining who we are, and a revival of fundamentals that work. Look at our roster, the best of the best. Historic! Our NCOM BOD and the LTF reflects an accurate snapshot of our motorcycling community at large. We are members of every organization in the motorcycle rights work arena. So the time is now to reach across any divide, put aside old petty grievances that only a handful even remember anyway, and embrace the National MRO’s and SMROs all working in sync that can achieve great things collectively. See you at the NCOM Convention in Denver; it’s going to be a good one! 30 Thunder Roads Magazine® Colorado
Paul Landers, Chairman, NCOM Legislative Task Force 30th Annual NCOM CONVENTION ROLLS INTO DENVER The 30th annual NCOM Convention will be held Mother’s Day weekend, May 7-10, 2015 at the Denver Marriott Tech Center, located at 4900 S. Syracuse St. in Denver, Colorado, so reserve your room now for the special NCOM rate of $99 by calling(303) 779-1100. Billed as the largest gathering of motorcycle rights activists in the world, this year’s annual NCOM Convention will draw over a thousand concerned bikers from across the country to “The Mile High City” to discuss topics of concern to all riders. The NCOM Convention will be hosted by the Confederation of Clubs of Colorado, and all motorcyclists are welcomed and encouraged to participate in the many meetings, seminars and group discussions that focused on legislative efforts and litigation techniques to protect our riders’ rights and preserve Freedom of the Road. Topics will include Anti-Profiling Laws; “Save the Patch” Legal Defense Fund; The R.I.C.O. Law and How It Affects You and Your Group; Public Relations & Social Media; and Special Meetings for Veterans Affairs, Women in Motorcycling, Clean & Sober Roundtable and World of Sport Bikes, as well as the Christian Unity Conference and Confederation of Clubs Patch Holders Meeting. The National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) is solely sponsored by the Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) nationwide legal services program and serves as an umbrella organization for more than 2,000 NCOM Member clubs, organizations and associations worldwide, representing well over a quarter of a million politically active motorcyclists. NCOM has successfully outreached to numerous segments of the motorcycling community in an effort to unite for our rights, both legal and legislatively, and has become a unifying voice amongst North America’s motorcycle rights organizations (MROs), motorcycle clubs, women riders, religious riding organizations, touring groups, trikers, sportbikers, and minority motorcyclists. To pre-register for the 2015 NCOM Convention, contact the National Coalition of Motorcyclists at (800) 525-5355 or visit www.ON-A-BIKE.com. LANE SPLITTING COULD MOVE BEYOND CALIFORNIA California is the only state in the U.S. where motorcyclists are allowed to cruise between lanes of cars, a practice called lane-splitting that is normally used to cut through stalled or slow-moving traffic. But now, an effort to legalize lane-splitting in other states, such as Washington, Oregon, Texas and Tennessee, is gathering momentum amid a push
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by motorcyclists and by some lawmakers looking to relieve highway congestion.
34-0 on 02/05/15 and passed the House of Representatives 69-0 on 02/17/15).” Bills to extend the practice to other states has sparked a UNITED FRONT HELPS TO DEFEAT HELMET LAW safety debate, and although no one has tracked exactly PROPOSALS IN NEW MEXICO how many highway accidents are caused by lane-splitting, In a unique “Pay-to-Play” scheme to punish motorcyclists a study from the California Office of Traffic Safety last year for exercising their right to ride without a helmet, a Senate found that motorcyclists’ injuries were kept down as long bill proposed in New Mexico would have created a system as they split lanes in slowly moving traffic and exceeded of taxation for riders who opt not to wear a helmet. the speed of other traffic by less than 10 miles an hour. Further, the study found that motorcyclists were less likely to die or be injured in lane-splitting crashes when Specifically, SB 308 would have created an annual motorcycle $697 license plate sticker that allowed the operator and compared with other kinds of collisions. passenger to refrain from wearing a helmet, for a fee. It The lane-splitting measures in Washington (SB 5623 & and a full blown helmet law (SB 327) were both heard in HB 1515), Oregon (SB 172 & SB 420), Texas (SB 442 & committee on the same day, and each bill died. HB 813) and Tennessee (HB 1102) all set varying limits to motorcyclists’ speed and speed differential. Most of “February 24, 2015 is a day that will live in New Mexico those bills are in committee, although Washington state’s Motorcycle History as two helmet bills died in the Senate measure has passed the state Senate 35-14. Public Affairs Committee,” said Annette Torrez, Chair of the HANDLEBAR HEIGHT LAW REPEALED IN SOUTH DAKOTA New Mexico Motorcycle Rights Organization and a member Good news for those riding to the 75th Anniversary of the NCOM Board of Directors. Torrez had issued a call Sturgis Rally this year, as South Dakota has abolished their to action, requesting assistance from the National Coalition handlebar height law, so as of July 1st ape hangers will of Motorcyclists (NCOM), the NCOM Legislative Task Force now be legal and no more 20-dollar-tickets for bars taller (NCOM-LTF), US Defenders, Motorcycle Riders Foundation than shoulder-high. (MRF) and the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), On Tuesday, February 24, 2015 Governor Dennis Daugaard all of which came to the aid of NM riders to help defeat the signed Senate Bill 85, joining 13 other states with no onerous proposals. handlebar restrictions (Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota, Montana, Oregon, Pennsylvania, “Together we can accomplish the possible and the impossible,” said Torrez. “Now we can put our efforts into New Mexico, North Carolina, Virginia and Tennessee). SB 651, the Careless Driving Bill to increase penalties for Pointing out that there are no national laws that regulate a person who commits careless driving that result in death handlebar height, nor commonly agreed upon standards or great bodily harm.” between states, ABATE of South Dakota emphasized personal comfort and style over safety concerns, given QUOTABLE QUOTE: “I believe there are more instances that no scientific studies identify any negative impact. of the abridgment of the rights of the people by the “A great team effort,” cites ABATE state coordinator Jiggs gradual and silent encroachments of those in power than Creasy. “Not a single opponent testified and not a single by violent and sudden usurpations.” vote against it (SB 85 passed unanimously in the Senate James Madison (1751-1836) fourth U.S. President
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5 Undeniable Facts: 1. We all love to spend money buying new clothes but we never realize that the best moments in life are enjoyed without clothes. 2. Having a cold drink on hot day with a few friends is nice, but having a hot friend on a cold night after a few drinks – Priceless! 3. Breaking News: Condoms don’t guarantee safe sex anymore. A friend of mine was wearing one when he was shot dead by the woman’s husband. 4. A debate over a girl’s bust size is like choosing between Molson, Heineken, Carlsberg, & Budweiser. Men may state their preferences, but will grab whatever is available. 5. I haven’t verified this on Snopes, but it sounds legit. A recent study found that women who carry a little extra weight live longer then the men who mention it.
A young New York woman was so depressed that one night she decided to end her life by throwing herself into the ocean. Just before she could leap from the docks, a handsome young man stopped her. “You have so much to live for,” said the man. “I’m a sailor, and we leave for Italy tomorrow. I can stow you away on my ship. I’ll take care of you, bring you food every day, and keep you happy. With nothing to lose, and having always wanted to go to Italy, the young woman accepted. From then on, every night he would bring her sandwiches and a bottle of red wine and he would make love to her for hours. A week later, the Captain discovered her during a routine inspection. “What are you doing here?” he asked. “I have an arrangement with one of the sailors,” she replied. “He brings me food and I get a free trip to Italy”. “I see,” said the Captain. Her conscience got the better of her and she added, “Plus, he’s screwing me.” “He certainly is,” replied the captain.” This is the Staten Island Ferry.”
“Hello is this the Sheriff’s Office?” “Yes, what can I do for you?” “I’m calling to report ‘bout my neighbor Virgil Smith.... He’s hidin’ marijuana inside his firewood! Don’t quite know how he gets it inside them logs, but he’s hidin’ it there.” “Thank you very much for the call, sir.” The next day, the Sheriff’s Deputies descend on Virgil’s house. They search the shed where the firewood is kept. Using axes, they bust open every piece of wood, but find no marijuana. They sneer at Virgil and leave. Shortly, the phone rings at Virgil’s house. “Hey, Virgil, did the Sheriff come?” “Yeah, how’d the hell you know?” “Did they chop all your firewood in half?” “Hell yeah they did!” “Happy Birthday, buddy. You’re all set for the Wnter now”. A friend asked me, “Now that you are retired, do you still have any sort of job?” I replied, “Yes, I am my wife’s sexual advisor.” Somewhat shocked, he said, “I beg your pardon, but what do you mean by that?” “Very simple. My wife has told me that when she wants my f-ing advice, she’ll ask me for it.”
“Scrubs” texts his friend and neighbor: “Dawg”, I’m sorry. I’ve been riddled with guilt and I have to confess. I have been helping myself to your wife when you’re not around; probably more than you. I know it’s no excuse but I don’t get it at home. I can’t live with the guilt any longer. I hope you’ll accept my sincerest apology. It will never happen again!” Poor old Dawg, feeling outrage and betrayed, grabs his gun, goes into the bedroom and without a word shoots his wife. Moments later Dawg gets a second text: “Sorry again Dawg, I really should spell check. That should have read “WiFi” ..... my bad”. www.thunderroadscolorado.com
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