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Letter from the Editor...……….………………………..6 59th Annual Autorama...............................................8 ABATE……..………………………..………………10 I Hope I Honored Him..............................................12 Veterans Corner…........................………..…………14 Flying Old Glory........................……………..…..…..18 Alcohol Poisoning Part II……………............………..22
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Jodi’s Bling owned by Jodi Johnsoni © 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.
4 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
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APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 5
Thunder Roads MAGAZINE Of Michigan
If you are reading this then you already saw that we are 72 pages this issue. Lots of great articles and features in this issue. We also began our Woman Rider Section for all you lady riders (and for the men who like to see what the women are up to) in this issue. Also be sure to check out the article “I Hope I honored Him” and I hope you can keep a dry eye after reading it.
STATE OwnerS / EditorS Joe & Pam Brinn
Yes you know we must be at or near the riding season now that you see all the bike night ads and biker events that are throughout this issue. As I write this letter from the Ed there is still 8 inches of snow on the ground but the weather man has predicted temps in the forties and fifties so I sure got the itch to ride and I know the rest of you (at least those who did not go to Daytona that is) are chomping at the bit to get out there and ride too. Remember that as we venture out onto the highways, our four wheeled friends have not seem much of us this past 6 months (geez this winter feels more like a year long to me) and many may have forgotten all about us so stay focused, keep alert and ride safe. I was a helicopter pilot in the military so I ride my bike like I use to fly, always vigilant to where that next problem might come from and keeping my mind on the what if’s so I know how to react to a situation if it ever comes up. What do I mean by this? When I approach an intersection, I always look to see what if that guy doesn’t stop at the light or stop sign and if so what am I going to do if he just plows ahead on through and into my path? I look around and try to plan on where I can go and approximately what I may need to do to lessen the chances of my being hit by him or causing me to veer into another car. I plan for that possible accident in my head. Nothing too detailed, just looking for that escape route and thinking to myself: What If? So I know what actions I might do ahead of time. Ok so maybe I am overreacting a bit but it has saved me a number of times, both while flying choppers and while riding my bike. It can’t hurt and just might help. It’s your decision.
P.O.Box 56, Oscoda, MI 48750 Office: 989-861-0682 • Fax: 877-733-5161 Cell: 989-906-2151/989-906-2155 E-MAIL: thunderroadsmichigan@charter.net www.thunderroadsmichigan.com
Layout and Design Barbara L. Garner / Thunder Publishing ADVERTISING SALES / DISTRIBUTION Port Huron / Mt Clemens & Surrounding Areas Tom & Dawn Burg 810-533-9246 Lansing / Jackson / BC / GR and Surrounding Areas Kirk & Jean Quenby • Regional Sales Managers 517-763-8408 / 517-763-8118 / thequenbys@yahoo.com Sub-Reps - Cindy Cole / cynthia9159@sbcglobal.net Loreen Wickens / classicacts@yahoo.com Kamie & Shane Burnside / sjklburnside@live.com Waterford / Clarkston and Surrounding Areas Kent “Pooch” Copenhaver 248-875-3154 pooch@poochshoots.com Muskegon and Surrounding Areas Gary Bredeweg 616-437-6972 / hotadstrm@yahoo.com Flint / Lapeer / Oxford / Shelby Area “Tim T” 248-840-2205 / timt_thunderroadsmichigan@yahoo.com Bay City / Saginaw/ Midland / Mt. Pleasant Tim Ostrander 989-686-3406 / ded69tjo@chartermi.net Milan/ Rockwood/ Monroe/ Lambertville/ Dundee Sandra Wood 734-334-0493 / sandrathunderroads@yahoo.com Plymouth / Novi / Dearborn / Livonia / Brighton Areas Debra Wright 313-218-5224 / debrathunderroads@yahoo.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Vince Piacenti, Jodi Johnson, Shelly Horan, Debra Wright, Grandpa Lug, Gary Westphalen, Princess of Chrome Angels, Jill Young, Tim T, Tim Ostrander, Treeman, Joe & Pam Brinn ADDITONAL MODEL PHOTOGRAPHY Photograf/x by Dusty Austin Ft. Walton Bch, FL 850-243-9262 / www.dustyaustin.com
As always please patronize our advertisers. It is because of them that we can bring you this mag free each month. Be sure to tell them you saw their ad in Thunder Roads Michigan.
Thank you. Remember, WHERE THERE’S BIKES… THERE’S GOING TO BE THUNDER!
This magazine is dedicated to the loving memory of my sister Sharon, who passed away from cancer.
National Founders
Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon 1528 Matlock Drive / Chapmansboro, TN 37035 Thunder Publishing, LLC Offices: 615-792-0040 e-mail:thunderroads@charter.net www.thunderroadsmagazine.com 6 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
Keep safe, Keep riding and Keep the wind in your face. God Bless our Troops and God Bless America. Joe & Pam
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APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 7
E V E N T
59th Annual Autorama 2011
By Debra Wright
The 59th Annual Autorama a 3-day show that is now more than just automobiles, it features lots of great bikes and everything in between all on two levels of fun. The main level of Cobo Hall in Detroit features a lot of Classic auto’s, trucks, hot rods, and semi’s and now more motorcycles than ever before. From high dollar rigs to those that are just totally ratted out, you could find it all here on display. And amongst all of these high profile vehicles were nestled motorcycles of all makes and models including Suzuki, Harley Davidson, Yamaha, and more just to name a few. Ricks Customs had two sweet bikes on display, also Shaggy’s Radicals had his cruiser B-17 replica, Outkast Customs had their Dragon Bike which was featured on the 2010 October cover. Also on display were Jody’s Green Ambition which was featured on the January cover and the Bud Light sport bike which are all part of Reflections Polishing’s display. Detroit Choppers had three motorcycles on dis-
play featuring custom paint, seats made from stingray and alligator, all chromed out and tires ranging from 24 to 26 inches for a unique look. Dew Drop Trailers showed off their custom made fiberglass trailers for trikes. The list is too long to list all of the bikes and bike owners who had a display here at this show. You just had to be here to see them all. Leaving this main level after more than three hours of checking as much as I could, I decided to meander to the lower level and check out the rest of the show. 8 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
As we were going down the escalator, you heard music playing as live bands, Elvis impersonators and a DJ kept you entertained throughout the area. This lower lever was a splash with even more motorcycles, rat rods, vintage model cars and a variety of mini-bikes, some of the later with some pretty unique special features. Zachary LaBlanc had a sweet 3.5 HP ride with flamethrowers off the back called ‘The Finkster’. He also was giving away signed autographs to his fans, way to go Zach! Good weekend weather and with many of the schools on winter break, this show made for a complete family adventure. There were even special guests on hand at the Celebrity Stage for meet and greets including Billy the Exterminator, Jersey Shore’s Sammy Sweetheart, WWE Wrestling Superstar Shawn Michaels and the Deadliest Catch TV star Jonathan Hillstrand. There were several other celebrities on hand as well. There was a Toy-a-Rama and many awards given out. As for the whole show if you had a question, comment or just wanted to chat, the owners of the bikes, cars and trucks were right there to answer as well as swap stories with you. It always seemed as I talked to so many of the owners that we would find a common experience that allowed us to relate with one another. There is a lot of work, time, money, and pride that went into all these machines. You were able to witness as their dreams came trueYou seen dreams come true and all was enjoying showing what they had as a finished product. Thank you to all the participants that came and spent the whole weekend at the show and their friendliness to all ages. It was a great 3-day show.
APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 9
ABATE OF MICHIGAN It’s tune-up time! Ok, you are going to read a lot of articles these next couple of months about tuning up your bikes: fresh plugs, fresh gas, change the oil. Since those subjects will be adequately covered, and since I as always strive to be different and controversial, I will talk about a different kind of tune-up: one for your freedom. There are though a lot of similarities to an engine tuneup. For instance, you change your plugs to get more spark, right? Well, we changed plugs in Lansing: we have a whole bunch of new legislators. But you all know that spark plugs have to be supplied with high voltage; otherwise they won’t do what you want them to. Simple physics. So you need good plug wires to transmit the voltage. What is the legislative equivalent of spark-plug wires? You. That’s right; you are responsible for transmitting your wishes to your elected officials. Doesn’t matter how much
power the battery (in our cases that is our heart) has. Doesn’t matter how good your ignition coil (your brain) is. It is all lost if you don’t have good plug wires. Just as plug wires are the conduit from the coils to the plugs, you are the conduit to Lansing. So it does not matter how much you believe in something (or how much you are against something) if you don’t speak up. The reason I am bringing this up is to remind you to verify with your representatives how they stand on the issues that are important to you. Not just on the helmet law, and not just on motorcycling issues, but on all issues that are important to you. OK, so after you change your oil, change your attitude and make that call to your Senator and House Representative. If you already have done so, then I want to thank you for getting involved. An update on the Awareness Program that is being revived in Oakland County. Jerry Makkonen and Dean Smith got the MSF grant that they applied for, which will offset some of the costs of this program. I want to thank them for all their efforts in keeping us safe. They will be looking for some volunteers to help spread the word in Driver’s Ed schools and high schools. Although they are involved in Oakland County, you can help out no matter where you live because almost all ABATE regions around Michigan have a good Awareness program. Hopefully you can spare a little time to volunteer for this. Concerning motorcycle training: the Experienced Rider course is being upgraded to the Advanced Rider Course. This will teach you not only defensive riding techniques but also how to get more out of your bike. We’ll publish more detailed info as it becomes available. A couple of quick reminders: The 35th Annual ABATE Field Meet will be held June 17 – 19 at the Hell Creek Ranch in Hell. Michigan. Also don’t forget our Freedom Rally in Lansing on June 8. Last but not least, buy a Bike Raffle ticket; you can win a brand-new Harley for only $10 a chance and do something for your freedom. Here is how to get in touch with us: 1. Call the state office at 248 685-9150 2. Log on to our Website: www.abateofmichigan.org 3. Visit a local ABATE meeting (log onto the Website for the nearest location) Vince Piacenti Board of Directors ABATE of Michigan
10 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
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I Hope I Honored Him. READ THIS FIRST!!!!! I just moved in the area about a month ago. I was feeling pretty lonely and something was just... missing...why not get a dog?? I went to the local shelter which was very clean and had big roomy cages for the dogs. The shelter said that I seemed like a labtype which I didn’t understand, but I guess they know what they are talking about. They took me to this black lab that looked like the perfect dog at a glance, well behaved and obviously in good shape. As I was leaving with the dog, they informed me that his name is Reggie, and handed me a box full of his belongings. When we got home, Reggie was still very well behaved...almost too well behaved. The better word might be bored. He just glared at me every time I tried to hype him up to play. There’s no way he was this way with his previous owner. I looked in his box of belongings for a toy and there was a new container of tennis balls in there. I grabbed one, and tossed it his way. He just watched it roll by his face while he laid on the floor with his head on his front paws. A week went by and Reggie still showed no activity, but the shelter said to give him two weeks and he should warm up to me. So far, it wasn’t looking so good. By the end of the second week, Reggie at least started to nudge the tennis ball, so I spread all the tennis balls around the house to give him something to do, but he still wasn’t warming up to me. I decided to call the shelter to let them know it just wasn’t working out, and as I dialed the last number to the shelter, I glanced in the box and saw an envelope. I hung up the phone and grabbed the envelope and opened it finding a letter written by his previous owner...
I folded the letter and slipped it back in the envelope. Sure I had heard of Paul Mallory, everyone in town knew him, even new people like me. Local kid, killed in Iraq a few months ago and posthumously earning the Silver Star when he gave his life to save three buddies. Flags had been at half-mast all summer. I looked at that lab that day and had a totally different respect for him. He was glaring at me as usual, but when I whispered “Hey Tank...” he was on all fours, tail wagging frantically and completely alert. I grabbed a tennis ball that was next to me and said, “...ya want this tennis ball? Huh boy?” You could tell he wanted to run, so I tossed the ball in the next room. He ran passed me, almost knocking me down to get to the ball. When he came back, he had 3 tennis balls in his mouth. 12 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
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VETERANS CORNER Frank Buckles, Last Known U.S. Doughboy, Dies Advocated for National World War I Memorial in D.C. WASHINGTON – Frank Woodruff Buckles, who lied about his age to enlist in the Army in 1917 and became the last known U.S. veteran of World War I, died on February 27, 2011 at the age of 110. “We have lost a living link to an important era in our nation’s history,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “But we have also lost a man of quiet dignity, who dedicated his final years to ensuring the sacrifices of his fellow ‘Doughboys’ are appropriately commemorated.” Burial with full military honors will be held at Arlington National Cemetery. Details about the funeral are expected to be released soon. A long-time resident of Charles Town, West Virginia, where he had a farm, Buckles was born in Bethany, Missouri. He enlisted shortly after his 16th birthday and served in France and Germany. At the start of World War II, he was a civilian working with a steamship company in the Philippines. He was imprisoned in a Japanese prisoner of war camp for three and a half years. In his later years, Buckles became an advocate for the expansion of a little-known memorial to World War I Veterans from the District of Columbia into a national memorial. More than 4,700,000 Americans served in the military during World War I. About 53,000 died of combat-related causes, while another 63,000 deaths were listed as non-combat.
VA Honors Military Women of Past, Present VA Celebrates Women’s History Month WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs joins with the nation to observe Women’s History Month in March by recognizing and
honoring women Veterans.
“Duty. Honor. Pride. These words reflect the spirit of generations of American women who have sought to defend the rights and freedom of others,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “The history of women in the armed forces began more than 220 years ago with women who served during the American Revolution and continues through the present day. VA is honored to serve these women who have contributed so much to our Nation.” Women Veterans are one of the fastest growing segments of the Veteran population. Of the 22.7 million living Veterans, more than 1.8 million are women. They comprise nearly 8 percent of the total Veteran population and 6 percent of all Veterans who use VA health care services. VA estimates women Veterans will constitute 10 percent of the Veteran population by 2020 and 9.5 percent of VA patients. In recent years, VA has undertaken a number of initiatives to create or enhance services for women Veterans, including the 14 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
implementation of comprehensive primary care throughout the nation; staffing every VA medical center with a women veterans program manager and regional offices with a designated woman Veterans coordinator; supporting a multifaceted research program on women’s health; improving communication and outreach to women Veterans; and continuing the operation of offices like the Center for Women Veterans and the Women Veterans Health Strategic Healthcare Care Group. “During this observance of Women’s History Month, let’s remember the special contributions of the ever-increasing number of women serving in the armed forces,” said Tammy Duckworth, assistant secretary for public and intergovernmental affairs. She noted that women currently make up more than 14 percent of the active-duty military and 18 percent of the Guard and Reserves. VA has 43 women’s memorials and monuments at its National Cemeteries across the country. Additionally, several notable women are buried in VA National Cemeteries, including Chief Specialist Evelyn B. (Ulrich) Einfeldt, a Navy World War II Veteran who was one of the 67 Navy “WAVES” involved in Operation Magic. She assisted with the assembly of BOMBE (Enigma), a machine to decode German and Japanese transmissions. She was laid to rest at the Fort Sill National Cemetery on April 6, 2006. For more information about VA programs and services for women Veterans, please visit: www.va.gov/womenvet and www.publichealth. va.gov/womenshealth In closing, let me invite you to send in your comments and or questions about the Veteran’s Corner to me at thunderroadsmichigan@charter.net Joe Brinn, State Owner/Editor US Army CW3 Retired Vietnam Vet / 7/17th Air Calvary Ruthless Riders GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS
Veteran’s Corner Sponsored By:
989.773.6025
Attorney Jason Waechter spends tens of thousands of dollars every year reminding drivers to Watch for Motorcycles. He is proud to be the law firm that does the most for the motorcycle community and gets great results for injured motorcyclists.
AN
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APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 17
E V E N T
Flying Old Glory on Motorcycles By Shelly Horan,. Thunder Roads Texas With special thanks to Princess of Chrome Angels
ikers are an incredibly patriotic crowd. I often see the U.S. flag gracing the rear of motorcycles as we ride around… bringing a lump to my throat at the display of such pride. For those thinking about adding flags to your bike, consider this… there is a protocol for displaying this patriotic symbol. While it’s
B
not specifically addressed in the U.S Code, as it is when dealing with an automobile, you can read between the lines to determine how the flag should be flown on the back of your ride.
bike or mounted to its “marching right”; its own right as the vehicle is moving forward (which would be the right side of the motorcycle to the rider’s perspective when sitting astride).
When the United States flag is flown alone on your motorcycle, flag etiquette calls for it to be either centered on the
If the U.S. flag is displayed on your bike with another flag of any type, it should be positioned to its “marching right;” that is, to the rider’s right sitting on the motorcycle. When the U.S. flag is on your bike with other non-national flags (POW/ MIA, service banners, fraternal flags, etc.), the U.S. flag is placed at the center and at the highest point of the group. According to the United States Flag Code, NO flag should ever be larger or displayed higher than the U.S. flag. If the U.S. flag is displayed on your bike with those of any other nation, the flags should be approximately equal in size and flown from separate staffs of the same height, with the U.S. flag to the marching right and other countries’ flags arranged to the left in alphabetical order in English. International usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of peace. The order of precedence for flags generally is nations first, states (host state first, then others in the order of admission) districts and territories (Washington DC, Puerto Rico, etc.), military (in order of establishment: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force), then any others. Also noteworthy, when the American flag is painted on the side of a motorcycle or other vehicle, the custom is that the stars face toward the front of the vehicle, regardless of which side the flag is on (giving the impression that the flag is flying in the wind as the vehicle moves forward). The flag of the United States of America represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing. Proper display reflects pride in country and respect for your motorcycle! Taking this one step further, there are also proper procedures for disposing of U.S. flags when they are old, torn, worn, or dirty. The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning. Most American Legion Posts regularly conduct a dignified flag burning ceremony, often on Flag Day, June 14th. Many Cub Scout Packs, Boy Scout Troops, and Girl Scout Troops retire flags regularly as well. Contact your local American Legion Hall or Scout Troop to inquire about the availability of this service.
18 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
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E V E N T
Alcohol Poisoning II – What Ethanol is doing to your bike
If you can find a filling banner like this, pa
you will experience hard starting, a significant loss of power, and
By Gary Westphalen By Gary Westphalen It has happened to one of my bikes. It has happened to one of Thunder WV Donna’s bikes. ItRoads may well have happened to yours. We fed them
engine misfires. That’s assuming you can evenparts get it to start in the The shelves at your local auto first place. Additionally, since the ethanol provides about three rating points worth of octane, the remaining gasoline will be well below the storeare full of fuel treatments. Some octane rating your engine needs.* of themare harmful to your bike’s enUp until October 13th of this year, the United States Environmental Protection (EPA)worsen had allowed gasoline distributors to gine, and Agency willonly your ethablend no more than ten percent alcohol, by volume, into the fuel nol problems. Know supply. That’s the highest concentration of alcohol approved by any motorcycle manufacturer for use in bikes. But, under pressure from what you’re putting in your tank. ethanol industry groups, such as an organization called Growth
lower temperature than gasoline, yet it burns hotter. Inside your engine, this combination can lead to premature detonation – engine knock – which robs power and harms engine components. In our April, 2010 issue (see The $1,000 Fill-Up, on page 24) we brought alcohol, and it made them sick. you the story of a bike that had its head gaskets burned away. The It sounds like a great plan, at first glance. By converting corn and service technician who rebuilt the engine attributed this to excessive The practice of distilling corn into a clear, highly volatile alcohol may have quite The use of fuel additives other crops grown on American soil into ethanol, we can reduce our heat in the cylinders, probably caused by ethanol blended gasoline. on in foreign oil. This alcohol is currently into is: your motorcycle engine adependence rich history the Mountain State, but theblended plain fact really the only other The shelf life of gasoline blendediswith ethanol is questionable. most of the gasoline we buy. Regulations American Petroleum Institute doesn’t likethemoonshine. every time you roll into a gas station as muchWhile as theoption out there, and the Energy, the EPA has changed its rules. Growth Energy and 54 enforced by Environmental Yet, Protection says ethanol does not affect the longevity ethanol manufacturers petitioned the EPA to allow for a blend of 15 Agency (EPA) state that each gallon of a properly storedabout tank oftheir fuel, value most is a raging ten percent of the fuel you pump into its tank is chemically identical to very pure debate called percentdispute. ethanol, orAdditives E15 as it is have called. been The petition wasevsubmitted of gasoline may consist of up to ten other knowledgeable sources disagree. under the Clean Air Act, which says the petitioner must show that the percent ethanol. Simple math suggests a shine. I’m talking about ethanol. erything from a magic bullet to snake oil. Depending upon the make-up of the The American Automobile Association, altered fuel “will not cause or contribute to the failure of an emission corresponding savings of ten percent of which has done extensive testing related controlmerit. system to achieve compliance with the emission standards our fossil fuel supply, along with a similar additive, both descriptions may have to this subject, refers to ethanol blended Inreduction last month’s issue of Thunder to which it has been certified over its useful life.” The act makes no of imported oil. Who could argueRoads Colorado (see Alcohol Poisoning, What gasoline as a “temperamental product.” mention of protecting engines from damage, nor does it address with that? Ethanol is Doing To Your Bike on page 16), we explored the properties of etha“I strongly you to look at theloss ingredients (MSDS) to determine exactly what Others believe that an urge ethanol blended of performance, fuel shelf life, or the solvent and hygroscopic But alcohol is not gasoline, and many tank of gas remains viable for no more issues related toMacri ethanol. nol that make it hazardous to the longevity of your bike’s engine. To summarize, the additive is capable of doing,” says Gail of Fuel Testers, a company of its properties are downright detrimental than 90 to 100 days after the mixture was The EPA partially agreed with the petition, issuing a waiver of its to the operation of your motorcycle, and firstinblended. ethanol-blended gasoline produces less useable energy, doesn’t last as long that sells kits for performing field testing of ethanol-blended gasoline. Macri regulations to allow for E15 to be sold for use in cars, light-duty the longevity of its parts. Thunder Roads Ethanol is a powerful solvent. It can trucks, and SUV’s from the model year 2007 and newer. However, West tank, Virginiaisfirst examined this in and metal components of your fuel delivery your destructive toissue rubber adds, “Thecontaminants ‘claims’ by additive companies about their products are loosen rust and other thatmost gasthe EPA has withheld approval of E15 fuel for cars from the model a series of reports last fall. In our October might otherwise lie undisturbed in your system, and 2009 likesissues to absorb water. If enough water is present, the ethanolfuel willsystem. through 2006, pending further testing, and does not plan and November, (see Passing exaggerated, misleading at best,years and 2001 more often, simply false information.” It is able to dissolve rubber to approve it for use in older cars, heavy duty vehicles, motorcycles, Gas Parts I and II) we uncovered the dark hoses, seals, plastics, and resins. Over abandon relationship with in favor of the water, and the waterand off-road motors such as lawn mowers. side of this its clear distillate. There are the five gasoline Thecan MSDS Macri the epa is proposing this label for e15 time, ethanol even eat awayrefers at soft to is the Material Safety Data Sheet. The Federal Occumain points that make ethanol just plain a skull anddropping crossbones The problem is, while E15 fuel is to be clearly labeled and ethanol combination will separate frompumps. the gasoline, tomight the bottommetals of like brass and aluminum. All of unsuitable for most bikes. pational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) an MSDS must at the be more appropriate. dispensed as such, thatrequires dispensingthat is going to be happening this dissolved material must then be your gas tank. ethanol produces same pump islands you use to fill your bike. The first gas station Gallon-for-gallon, pushed through your engine. be available to anyone who works with hazardous chemicals. The MSDS isn’t to sell the high-ethanol blend was in Vinton, Iowa. Within a couple about a third less energy than gasoline. Finally, the worst behavior that ethanol weeks ofbut theitrule change, E15 was being offered at listing the very same With a that ten percent blendyou of ethanol, means will hands. see a Your bike may miss and Once happens, have athatmess onyou your really a consumer-oriented document, does contain the ingredients brings to into your gas tank is its hygroscopic property, meaning it pump as all other grades of gasoline. Although it is pumped through decrease in your engine’s power of about three to six percent, along attracts water. In fact, ethanol would to blend withavailable achemical sputter, fail to start, or even suffer major Obviously, preventive foractually mostprefer commercially products. By reading for as separate hose, E15 is selected in the the sameMSDS row of buttons with a corresponding decrease in mileage. If you’reengine driving adamage. gas water. When enough moisture has been drawn into the ethanol/ every other grade of gas. An uninformed biker could easily opt for hog cage that only gets ten or twelve miles per gallon, you probably measures make a lot more sense than having to deal with these of an gasoline blend, effects the ethanol will actually surrender its chemical bondyou can find any given fuel additive, out what’s inside the bottle. this cheaper blend, without realizing the risks being taken. won’t take much note of the loss. But in a bike, where the difference with the gasoline, in favor of the water. Then, the alcohol and water can be quite obvious, you as much 20 or 30 miles alcohol hangover in could yourlose motor. Theas problem is from that there really a lot of with the gasoline, and sinks to the The federal ruling prohibits the sale of E15 for use in bikes, and mixture drops aren’t out of suspension That’s important information, because many fuel additives are alcohol-based every tank of gas. there are stiff penalties involved. A retailer that allows E15 fuel bottom of your fuel tank. This is a process called phase separation. things you can do. to ethanol be pumpedproblems into a vehicle not worse. approvedThe for its use becan face a Ethanol has a lower flash point, which means it explodes at a When the alcohol and water mixtureproducts, is pumped and into your will engine, only make your even idea 6 ThUnder roads WesT VIrGInIa deCeMBer 2010 The best protection is to buy high quality gasoline at a station you can trust. The ideal station is one that touts ethanol-free gasoline. If you can find one of these, go there to fill your bike every chance you get. One of the big knocks on ethanol-blended fuels is that they don’t have a long life span. If you ride your bike infrequently, this can become a real issue. It’s not uncommon for ethanolwater phase separation to happen within as little as a few weeks after you fill the tank. Frequent turnover of the gas in your tank not only means that you’re getting in a lot of riding, but helps avoid the issues of aging ethanol. ®
Buy a high octane grade of fuel. The ethanol added to gasoline accounts for about 3 octane rating points. Since ethanol doesn’t have as much stored energy (and doesn’t deliver what it does have as efficiently as gasoline does in a motorcycle engine) discounting it from your calculations is a prudent step. Figure that 92 octane-blended gas you’re buying is really good for an octane rating of about 89, and you’ll be riding on the safe side. When buying your gas, there is a new threat to watch for. As detailed in last month’s article, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued new rules allowing for the sale of E15 gasoline for use in 4-wheel vehicles from the model year 2007 and newer. E15 is not approved for, and is actually illegal to use, in older cars and all motorcycles. Even the EPA says E15 will flat-out destroy your bike’s motor. 22 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
www.thunderroadswv.com hind these products is that they will boost the octane rating of the fuel in your tank at the same time they absorb excess water. But adding more alcohol on top of the ethanol already in your fuel mixture isn’t going to fix things. Yes, you’re raising the octane rating, but you’re doing so by adding more ethanol, not more gasoline. Since we know that ethanol burns differently than gasoline, we also know that the extra punch this added alcohol provides isn’t happening at the opportune moment in the combustion cycle. It’s energy that results in added heat without added power. While an alcohol-based additive may help absorb a little more moisture, remember that the alcohol doesn’t get rid of the water, it just combines with it. That may keep the water molecules in suspension, but they still have to go through your engine.
In fact, an alcohol-based additive is actually harmful for your engine. All of the major motorcycle manufacturers say their machines are not to be used with fuel containing more than 10% ethanol. Since there is already that much alcohol in the fuel you buy, adding more may bring the mix in your tank above the recommended limit. The bottom line regarding the use of alcohol-based fuel additives is simply this: Don’t do it. Which brings us to a different set of additives that may provide some measure of help with some of the troublesome aspects of ethanol-blended gasoline. If
c is A g
d
s w p
is I C b f g
o f r w y
is t
c h f
s r p y A e in
that sounds like a hedged bet, it is. No additive even tries to make the claim that it resolves all of the issues presented by ethanol. But the class of additives that may prove helpful use a base of Naphtha, instead of alcohol. Naphtha is continued from pageof27gasoline, often referred to as white gas. Those gallon cans the lightest form of fuel you buy for your lanterns and camp stoves are filled with pure naphtha. Since Naphtha is a form of gasoline, it doesn’t share ethanol’s propensity to unblend. But the amount of Naphtha being added to your tank is so small that it doesn’t improve the fuel, it just doesn’t worsen it like an alcohol-based additive does. What’s important is what’s being carried into your tank by that Naphtha. In many cases, the active ingredient is an emulsifier, such as a detergent. (This is going to get a bit like a chemistry lesson, but bear with me.) It has to do with the electrical charge of the various chemical components. Gasoline is electrically neutral. Water and ethanol are electrically charged, or polar, kind of like magnets. That’s why they attract each other. An emulsifier, when added to the mix, gathers up a few hundred water molecules into a ball, called a micelle, and then surrounds the ball as it bonds the whole thing to the hydrocarbon molecules of the gasoline. Think tiny water balloons, with the detergent forming the balloon skin. This way, the water molecules don’t get to leave the party early with those polarized ethanol molecules. The end result is a more stable mixture. “As for the products that claim to extend the shelf life of E10,” says Gail Macri, “while these may be true that gas will be usable for nine months, instead of two to three months, all those products do is keep water suspended in the upper petroleum layer to delay phase separation. They do not prevent water from being absorbed, and they do not remove water or fix fuel.” At this point, I do have to single out one particular fuel additive, for two reasons. First, because it claims to work differently than all other additives, but also because practical application in the field is indicating that there just might be something to this. The specific product is called Star Tron. The MSDS states that more than 95% of the content in a bottle of Star Tron is Naphtha. So far, so good, but not unique. Where it gets interesting is the claim that the active ingredient isn’t a detergent or other emulsifier, but a proprietary mix of organic enzymes. Here comes more science. An enzyme is a protein, whose function is to vastly speed up a chemical reaction, which allows the affected chemicals to stabilize more quickly. In this case, says Star Brite, the company that manufactures Star Tron, it means the process of surrounding the water happens more vigorously, resulting in smaller balls of water. “Star Tron’s impact on the water molecule is to reduce the cluster size to a size known as a colloid,” says Matt Cohen, Star Brite’s Fuel Engineer. “That’s so small it will stay in suspension without an emulsifier’s chemical bond, at least for a while. This is why, during operation where there is some fuel movement, Star Tron will act just like a detergent and move microscopic drops of water up into the fuel column where it is harmlessly burned off.” Size matters here. Cohen says that micelles of water may be large enough to displace fuel as a boundary layer lubricant between metal surfaces, which causes wear on pumps and close tolerance fuel system components. The smaller colloids of water, he says, do not.
Another benefit, says Cohen, of using enzymes over detergents is that, “enzymes never become part of the reaction. They are ‘catalysts.’ They initiate or accelerate chemical reactions, but release themselves from the reaction and start a new one, millions of times per second. Its takes only a few molecules to do what untold numbers of detergent molecules do.” Cohen says that the storage life of gasoline treated with Star Tron is greatly enhanced, but can only offer a couple of theories as to why it works. There is a kind of “trust me” taint to the statement, although he says independent labs have confirmed the claim. Cohen points out, “It took scientists over 70 years to figure out how aspirin worked, so we have to beg your understanding on this one.” So let’s say you have a fuel tank where a partial phase separation has occurred. That is to say, a small amount of water and ethanol has left the party and dropped to the bottom of your tank. Can this load of fuel be salvaged? A data sheet supplied by Fuel Testers says no. “Removal of the bottom layer of fuel from the tank leaves you with contaminated, octane deficient gas,” says the paper, supplied by Gail Macri. “Only advanced, costly, filtration/fuel-purifying in combination with replacement of chemicals will ‘fix’ phase-separated fuel.” Star Tron’s Matt Cohen says a tank of fuel that has suffered from a high degree of phase separation is beyond their product’s reach. However, he adds, “Given that water will separate from fuel, even E10, you can have water pooled on the bottom with some ethanol, but the fuel can still have ethanol in it as well. And this is readily restored by adding Star Tron and operating the vehicle.” “As you’re reading product claims, ask yourself, ‘If these ingredients are so effective to accomplish xyz, then why aren’t they already in all gas sold?’,” says Macri in explaining why the Star Tron claims don’t hold water with Fuel Testers. “Any new miracle chemical that is developed, that really does help gas in some way, the patent is immediately bought by a major gas company/refinery, and then becomes a standard ingredient in gas and may also be sold separately to other companies for use.” Several motorcycle shops in the state tell Thunder Roads West Virginia that they have seen benefits to using this particular additive. This anecdotal evidence comes largely in the form of rough running and hard-starting motors that seemed to calm down when their fuel supply was treated with Star Tron. Even if you do have success with this or any other fuel additive, there is one aspect of ethanol-blended fuels that no product on the market can counter. Ethanol is a solvent, and, says Matt Cohen of Star Brite, “It will eat up old rubber.” Keep an eye on your fuel lines. When it comes to the validity of marketing claims for any fuel additive, it would take an army of chemists and engineers compiling absolute proof to convince me one way or the other. Intelligent people on all sides of this debate make valid points, yet fail to reach consensus. So, I’m not advocating the use of Star Tron, or any other fuel additive. That decision is between you, your mechanic, and your bike. But all of the experts agree the best way to safeguard your bike is to store it with a full tank of fresh, high-octane gas, and to churn through that fuel supply on a regular basis.
APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 23
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Motorcycle Memorabilia, Drawings, Historic Material and other original artifacts can be seen, viewed, touched and admired. Open FrOM MAy 1st thru Oct 1st / MOnDAy - SAturDAy 9am - 5pm / SunDAy 11am - 5pm
You pick up a hitchhiker, a beautiful young girl. Suddenly she faints inside your car. You do the right thing and immediately take her to a hospital. Now that’s stressful. But at the hospital, they say she is pregnant & congratulate you that you are going to be a father. You say that you are not the father, but the girl swears that you are. This is getting much more stressful. So then, you request a DNA test to prove that you are not the father. After the tests are completed, the doctor says that you are infertile, and probably have been since birth, so you are definitely not the father. You are extremely stressed but also relieved. On your drive home you make a vow to never pick up hitchhikers again. And then, your mind slowly drifts to your wife and 4 kids at home. A small zoo in Arkansas obtained a very rare species of gorilla. Within a few weeks the gorilla, a female, became very difficult to handle. Upon examination, the Veterinarian determined the problem. The gorilla was in heat. To make matters worse, there was no male gorilla available. Thinking about their dilemma, the Zoo Keeper’s first idea was of Bobby Lee, a redneck part-time worker responsible for cleaning the animal cages. Bobby Lee had little sense but possessed ample ability to satisfy a female of any species. Herein, the Zoo Keeper thought they might have a solution. Bobby Lee was approached with a proposition: Would he be willing to mate with the gorilla for $500.00? Bobby Lee showed some interest, but said he would have to think the matter over carefully. The following day, he announced that he would accept their offer, but only under certain conditions: “First,” Bobby Lee said, “There aint gonna’ be no kissin’ her on the lips.” The Zoo Keeper quickly agreed to this condition. “Also”, he continued “you can’t never tell no one, no body about this.” The Keeper again readily agreed to this condition. And,” Bobby Lee said, “I want any youguns’ raised Southern Baptist.” Once again it was agreed. “And finally,” Bobby Lee said, “I’ll need another week to come up with the whole $500. dollars.” A woman was patiently trying to help her husband set up his new computer. He however was acting annoyed and impatient. She told him to choose a password for security purposes.
A woman was at work when she received a phone call that her small daughter was very sick with a fever. She left her work and stopped by the pharmacy to get some medication. She got back to her car and found that she had locked her keys in the car. She didn’t know what to do, so she called home and told the baby sitter what had happened. The baby sitter told her that the fever was getting worse. She said, “You might find a coat hanger and use that to open the door.” The woman looked around and found an old rusty coat hanger that had been left on the ground. She knew just finding it there was a good sign. She looked at the hanger and said, “I don’t know how to use this.” She bowed her head and asked God to send her help. As soon as she raised her head, a beat up old motorcycle pulled up, with a weathered and tattered looking bearded man who was wearing a faded skull dew-rag on his head. He had full-sleeve tats on both arms. The woman sent a silent question up to Heaven, “This is what you sent to help me?” She was desperate, but also, she was extremely thankful. The man got off of his cycle and asked if he could help. The woman explained her situation. “Please, can you use this hanger to unlock my car?” He said, “Sure.” He walked over to the car, and in less than a minute the car was opened. She hugged the man and through her tears she said, “Thank you so much! You are a very nice man.” The man replied, “Lady, I’m just a man. A man who got released from prison today. I was in prison for grand theft auto, and have only been out on the streets for about an hour.” The woman hugged the man again and with sobbing tears cried out loud, “Oh, Thank You God! You even sent me a Professional”. A fifty-ish woman was at home happily jumping on her bed and squealing with delight. Her husband watches her for a while and asks, “Do you have any idea how ridiculous you look?, What’s the matter with you?” The woman continues to bounce on the bed and says, “I don’t care, I just came from having a mammogram and the Doctor said I have the breasts of an 18 year-old” The husband sarcastically replied , “What did he say about your 56 year old ass?” She quickly replied.....
He made it plainly obvious to his wife what he was entering by stating each letter out loud as he typed: P...E...N...I...S
“Your name never came up,”
His wife fell off her chair laughing when the computer replied: Password Rejected. Not Long Enough.
Being a decent, modest man, when I checked into my hotel on a recent trip, I said to the lady at the Registration Desk….. “I certainly hope the porn channel in my room is disabled.” To which she replied, “No, it’s regular porn, you sick bastard.”
26 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
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w O M E N R I D E R S
Young Remarks N
By Jill Young
Staying Moisturized at 60 mph! ow that Thunder Roads has a Women’s Section, do you think
However, before we get too carried away pounding our chest about the
we’ll be seeing articles focusing on moisturizing and preventing chapped
image we want to convey while we are on our ride, there is a website that
lips? How about secrets on keeping your braids tighter, without getting a
everyone should visit. Go to www.harley-davidson.com and under the
headache? Maybe the latest leather fashions? We all know how important
Community tab, click on Women Riders. There is a lot of information here
that can be. Kinda sounds like Biker Barbie, doesn’t it?
– from Helmet Hair Tips to videos on How to Pick up a Motorcycle. This
You are reading this magazine, because that image is not what you are
shows how thirsty we are for information, how varied our tastes are for that
about. You want to ride because you want to ride. Whether you have been
information and how well vendors (in this case H-D) are quenching our
riding since you were a teenager, or you just got off of someone’s back. .
requests. Guys, there may be some information here for you too.
. you want to be treated with respect and dignity. You feel that you have
There are also Garage Parties™ for women being hosted by the local Harley
earned it and are entitled to it and deserve it. You have found a passion and must pursue it to its fullest.
dealers. The H-D website explains, “Garage Party™ events are women-only social events hosted by H-D dealerships after hours that offer hands-on tips
There are currently over 544,000 registered motorcycles in Michigan. Of
and seminars on key areas of motorcycling basics. These are a great way to
those, roughly 12.5% of those are women. I’ll do the math for you – that is
become acquainted with the bikes, the gear and the terminology.” This is a
68,000 women riding in our lovely state. We are becoming quite the cartel.
new opportunity for just us gals to learn about our passion.
Although we are currently only about 1/8th of the bike population, we are a
Being a woman on a motorcycle, I know that I was a little nervous about
serious upcoming faction of the riding and ownership groups in Michigan.
invading a man’s world of motorcycle riding. However, I have yet to meet
The history of women riding motorcycles is a little sparse compared to our
a man (other than one of my step-sons) who did not encourage me to ride,
current thousands. As with any group, we too had pioneers. In 1932, Louise
nor has anyone ever belittled me for being a woman on a bike. That says
Scherbyn began her riding career. She went on to become the founder and
a lot for the confidence and integrity of the many men that have been riding
first president of WIMA (Women’s International Motorcycle Association), a
for years. Although this invasion is new to them, most men do not feel
worldwide organization designed to promote women who love to ride.
threatened by us. They welcome us. It’s quite possible they enjoy riding by
There is another woman, Theresa Wallach, who was the first vice-president
themselves for a change.
of WIMA. Theresa has many firsts in her life. In 1935, she was the first
If you are just at the beginning of your riding career, there is a Road Map link
person (not woman – person) to ride a motorcycle across the Sahara Desert.
on the H-D website that will be most helpful. This will guide you through the
She also was the first woman to ever win a Brooklands Gold Star, which was
process of learning to ride, getting your license and finding a bike that ‘fits
awarded to any rider that managed a 100+mph lap around Brooklands, the
you’. Maybe you are at the stage where you just need a little more practice
famous English road race circuit. Proving that she could ride as well as any
– there are some good tips for that too. Or maybe, you are an experienced
man, she ran her 101.64mph lap in the rain. She was also the first woman
rider and would like to ‘give back’. The information necessary to become a
dispatch rider in the British army during World War II.
mentor is only a click away.
These ladies paved the way for the rest of us. There are now many Lady
Over the course of the next few months, I will have the opportunity to
Rider groups springing up. If you are looking for one and have not heard of
interview many women who are involved with motorcycles. That involvement
a group in your area, a quick internet search will give you several to choose
will come from many different angles, but what I think you’ll find, is a common
from. From the preliminary research I did on the Women’s Riding groups,
sisterhood. All we want to do is ride. We can clean house and do laundry
they were formed for a “No Attitude – Let’s Ride” format. This is exactly the
on the days it’s raining. So ladies, readjust your schedules, forget about
kind of woman on a bike today – no fluff. She’s smart. She’s safe. And
cooking and let’s get out there. Why? “Because I ride my own.”
she’s putting some miles on. 30 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
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Book Review “Pieces Of My Heart”
PIEC ES O F MY
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____ ____ __ KATY in W O. ISHEE schoolauchula Fl was born an orida. and Ap at St. Le Sh d raised in Bo palachi o Collee attended an on St e, for Th ate ge in Fl N.C. Tribun e Herald She haUniversity. and th e, Beve Advocates written e Citru rly Hi , Tamp s Chro lls In a Katy nicle. quirer with makes he and her husbanr home in Piecesher five Amd, singer,Tennessee book of My He erican Virgil T., . art is bulldog Katy’s s. first ____ ____ __
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There are so many fascinating stories from her life that will upset you on one page and make you laugh out loud the next. We’ve mention her tough “Neith er e foteen with the pregnancy & asylum visit. rced thyears inhu Katy to give up mane proc Ishee. edures her so toWait Fromyou the n read of till about her ride in a 1964 a prov happines the shocto adoption Electrosurviv ocative ans of her re king pain crushed Shock Ther the al that and he San apy or d poig un io from Tampa during wonChevy artbre spiritFrancisco being derful many w nant ta n with her to le ak and st ly wri tten boould not ha of her va son, Katy Is ing loss ofrength of liant he that ok will ofvelove he brings her in the summer in 1967 have the streng struggle foe has writt r child you ri en th veted to accom r survival, Now that it is Winter I thought I’d give y’all something to do in this from the way. “P touch with many characters beginnplish.along ing to Her - Joe H end.” inclement weather while the bike sits in the garage with a battery tender There Soll, LC SW, are cheating husband stories, drunk hooked to it. Reading is always good for you, if you are well read you will bike drag racing stories, her moment of not be easily misled. I have a good book to recommend to you to pass fame as a Loretta Swit look a like, getting the time while snow & ice cover the roads. It’s a bio of a Tennessee into a fight with the Sheriff of Custer, resident biker gal named Katy Ishee. SD, she portrayed a bartender in Old West shows in Tombstone, AZ where I met Miss Katy at the Spring Thaw Bike Show last year & she gave me she nearly shot her butt off with a copy of her book to review for TRM. To be honest I procrastinated on a blank firing pistol. During her reading the book because the title implies that it is a chick’s book but its travels on her mostly trustworthy not! Sure the 1969 BMW she crossed path with ladies will love the the roller coaster ride of drama that unfolds during egomaniac bikers, liars, bad asses, Katy’s colorful, adventurous, & emotion filled life. But the men will enjoy patch holders, truckers, and a seeing life through the eyes of a biker woman who was ahead of her time variety of assholes in her journey. She also in a man’s world over 30 years ago. Katy has been riding solo since 1974 came across numerous good people & fun filled honest and she has traveled her often difficult path of life resembling a famous biker brothers & sisters who are true to the lifestyle. icon, Maj. Margarette “Hot Lips” Houlihan, from the popular MASH TV Hell people, Santa Claus gave her away at her huge series. All the while carrying a torch in her heart seeking the son that biker wedding in 1994!!!!! :) You must read this her cold hearted & difficult mother demanded she put up for adoption book! It’s sorta like a chick version of Easyrider when she was 17 years old while growing up in rural Florida. except it covers a variety of adventures & has a happy ending. Katy does eventually find happiness with her I very seldom read novels. I prefer history or bios about real people. This last husband, Virgil, in the hills of East Tenn. More 370 page volume is written by a biker woman who still rides & is exciting importantly she finds her only child, Steve, after 27 to talk to. You’ll read her detailed stories of the horror of being committed years who is also a biker and who had been searching to an insane asylum by her parents. You’ll get a glimpse of the painful for her too.(If you don’t get emotional reading & ludicrous shock about their long anticipated reunion there must be therapy treatment she something wrong with ya.) suffered with because her Rebel spirit did Her long time pal, blues guitar legend Lonnie Mack, not conform to the mold sums up Katy’s bio very well with one sentence. He her parents, doctors, says, “This story is so shocking & strong, you have to and society held at that be strong to read it.” Nuff said right there. This ain’t time for young girls. It is no romance novel or boring biography this is how a scary, sad, & shocking. girl who likes her knees in the breeze has survived life (Pun intended.) during many difficult trials with a lot of humor, You’ll read about the tenacity, & courage with her head held high. Good luck heartache of always with the rest of your life Miss Katy. I want to meet that thinking & wondering boy of yours & I hope you remain happy. about the blue eyed blond hair son You can order a personalized autographed copy at she brought into the Katy’s website www.katyishee.com or catch her at a world. There are tales book signing. Learn more about her on Facebook. Look of the free love & drug for Katy/ Hot Lips book signings at the CMT/ABATE induced years of the late 1960s. She Swap Meet March has been literally beaten down by 19 at S & G Custom Cycles in Columbia, Spring men who have an Thaw Swap issue with independent women. Meet in She has endured several troubled Shelbyville marriages along with alcohol March induced mistakes and good times. 26, and (One husband in particular puzzled Mule Day me when he was upset & Soiree at S angry because she was & G Cycles so happy after finding in Columbia her son.) on April 2. Another thing you’ll appreciate about the book is how her life paralleled so many great songs from the time period. I think we all do that, I know I do. HEAR T
Review By: Rebel Ron
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APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 31
E N R I D E R S
w O
Jodi’s Bling By Jodi Johnson
M E N R I D E R S
F
or the past four years I’ve enjoyed the road from the “back seat”. I had not dreamt of becoming an official “Lady Rider”, and certainly not owning a Harley. I made an impulsive pact with friends to take the endorsement class at Lansing Community College. Excitedly I enrolled in the class surprising myself that I wanted to ride my own. Timing was ironic; the week before class started, I found my inspiration to pass the class. It was a 2004 Harley Davidson 883 Custom. I made a small financial commitment, a large mental one, and I succeeded! I passed the class and bought the bike!! All though I was scared at first, the more I rode the more comfortable I became. Soon, I was ready to prove I could make a real road trip- to the Mackinac Bridge and back. I was not ready to cross, not yet. But this year I will be proving
my fear of bridges wrong and will be joining my fellow riders in the Midnight Ride. Riding has allowed me to find the independence and confidence in myself I did not know existed. Always being artistic, my new found romance with motorcycles opened a new hobby in my heart- J-Bling. I have been creating helmet designs
32 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
over the last few years with genuine Swarovski crystals that adorn every item I create. The biggest impact has been seeing one of my designs glide by on a sunny day- that was when I knew I had achieved something special not just for myself but others. My proudest moment is the creation of my bike. Over the past few months the tank and fenders were custom painted by Dirty White Boyz Cycle
Art. The Corbin seat was newly recovered. Then a Dakota Digital Dash and Paul Yaffe Supertrapp Road Legends X Pipes were installed. My personal touch of bling is on the windshield, tank, front fender, license plate cover, and gas cap. My ride now boasts over 10,000 Swarovski crystals shining from end to end. I’m completely in love with riding and
w O M E N can’t wait to plan all of my new journeys ahead. This summer is going to be the summer to remember with many rides to come. Becoming a “Lady Rider” is one of the best decisions I have ever made. I thank Jason of Backdraft Custom Cycle. I could not have done this without his support and his motorcycle mechanic skills. I’ve been blessed to meet so many great women out there that share the same passion as I do. Every girl needs a little sparkle in their life; at least I know I can give them something like that. To see many of my designs visit me at backdraftcustomcycle.com.
GILDNER’S
I D
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E
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( 9 8 9 ) 345 -1330•2723 South M-76•West Branch, MI APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 33
Blessing/Ovid Crazy Sue/Monroe
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Stinger’s Toys for Tots Benefit Huge Success By Kerry Jones
The Stinger’s 2010 Toys For Tots Benefit was another great success! In total we raised over $2000.00 in monetary donations and the toys that were donated were unbelievable! There were five Toys for Tots boxes filled to the rim! The toy collection team had to come back the next day to pick up the remaining toys because they could not fit them all in their trucks on the first trip. And of course, Santa was there as dozens of kids had their picture taken with him as they all had a jolly ole time. The Marines also made their appearance dressed in their blues looking fantastic! Overall, it was a HUGE SUCCESS!!! If you were able to join, just being in the presence of all the kids, the holiday spirit, along with the Marines and knowing your there doing a great deed was an unbelievable feeling. Everyone had smiles on their faces and were tappin their toes to the awesome music provided by the five bands that donated their time as well. All of these bands just rocked the place out!!!!!!! We look forward to this year’s benefit and for this benefit for years to come
Quality Garage Doors Now Carries TIMEOUT TRAILERS MOTORCYCLE CAMPERS and CYCLE MATE TRAILERS Now Also Available
www.timeout-trailers.com 2510 South M-76 • West Branch MI 48661
HOME
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38 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
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E V E N T
I’ve been building motorcycles since I was 14 years old. I was 10-12 years old when my dad took me for a ride on his 1946 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead. It was THE greatest thing in the world to me, looking under his arm and around him at the speedometer, it showed 80 mph, and I thought, “This is cool, when I grow up, I got to have me one of these.” Pops bought me a mini-bike and it’s been history ever since. I’d take it apart and repaint it, put a bigger motor in it so it’d go faster, that’s when me and the boys started our own mini-bike club, the “Aces”. In 1979, I bought my first Harley-Davidson, a 1960 FL Panhead. It was a chopper when I bought it, so one long winter; I made a bagger out of it. Over the years it has been transformed in several different customs. I still own it today. Last year, I restored a 1964 FLH Harley-Davidson Panhead for Michigan Chopperfest 2010, where I took 1st Place in the Top 10 Antique Builders of Michigan. That Saturday, I entered the bike in the Ride In Bike Show class for Pro Builders and won 1st place in the Panhead Class. I also entered my 1945 UL Harley-Davidson flathead bobber in the Midwest Motorcycle Fest 2010 and took 1st place in the Old Skool Bobber class and also 1st place in the Judges Choice.
40 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
E V E N T
GRAMPA LUG’S If’n you have insomnia, then here.
“ROAD STORIES”
Read this.
THE ALBERTA FLAT I began road riding in 1981. My touring goal in 1996 was to ride to Yellowknife, the capital city of the Canadian Northwest Territories. This tour would then complete the North American Continent, having done so using three motorcycles. On the way there, I would receive a ticket, get a flat tire, and drop my bike. But, “Even the bad times on the road are good.” Riding my 1991 Tourglide, I crossed the boarder at the “Soo”. Barely into Canada, I was stopped by the Ontario Provincial Police and my “fuzz buster” was confiscated. It was an early model radar detector which lacked “stealth” technology. The officer detected it electronically from his patrol car, and “possession” resulted in a $163 fine and loss of the unit. I continued cruising across Canada on the scenic “Yellowhead Route”, to the Mackenzie Highway in the city of Peace River, Alberta. There, a prominent sign announced “Mile Post “O”. I took a photo for the record, and headed north into lands not shown in my Rand McNally. I camp when I tour. I’d prefer the Hyatt, but tenting uses up less cash, which enables longer tours. In the small village of Dixonville, a $5 campground is maintained by the local citizens. I was the only camper, but on a Friday night, it was also in use by cars of teenage drinkers and other adolescents who wanted to build a fire and hang out. Two boys came over to chat. When they went back to their own fire, I went to bed. In the morning, the items I had left out on a picnic table had been taken. My bike cover had also been disturbed. I wrote a sarcastic “Thank You” to the locals about the way they were bringing up their kids, and left it in the money slot. About 30 kilometers north of Manning, the rear tire went flat. The puncture had been caused by a knife, and the slit was too long to be sealed with a round plug. The tire still leaked after inflating it with my portable air compressor. I had to stop to re-inflate the tire again before reaching the gas station back in Manning. While using the air hose there, another driver who saw my plight, told me of the motorcycle mechanic’s training course taught at the community college in Fairview. It was over 100 miles further south, but they would have the facilities to change the tire. I decided to go for it. Stopping every 15 miles to re-inflate the tire, and running flat part of the time, I finally arrived in Fairview on a Saturday afternoon, and checked into a motel. I called the college, and although summer break had started, a course instructor was still available. He agreed to service my bike if I brought my bike and a tire to him. I called the Harley Dealer in Edmonton and arranged for a tire to be shipped by Greyhound to the bus station in Fairview, where I picked it up the next Monday morning. My old Dunlop could no longer be inflated, but running flat, I rode into the campus to the training garage where the instructor was waiting for me. While I strolled around the college and waited, he not only mounted the new tire, but cleaned and polished my Harley as well! Inspection of the old tire confirmed that it had indeed been slashed with a knife. The instructor only asked for $35, but I also left a good tip. This is the only authorized Harley-Davidson training center in Canada. An excellent facility which includes a museum with restored vintage Harleys. With renewed optimism, I again rode northerly, crossed the border at the 60th parallel and received a “Certificate of Achievement” at the welcome center. I had to borrow some lawn mower gas to make it the rest of the way to Hay River. While there, I enjoyed swimming and sight seeing. The road to Yellowknife was under construction. It was deeply rutted and impassable except by four wheel drive vehicle. I gave it a shot, but after dropping my bike in slimy mud, turned south and ended up in Arizona. At last, Canada, the USA and Mexico were “done”. Back home I received a nice letter from the good folks of Dixonville, apologizing for my experience there. They had discovered who the boys were and wished to compensate me for their miss-deeds. I also received a letter from the Alberta Provincial Police who asked for details and offered to pursue the matter. More later, after I ride a little bit... GRAMPA LUG
Grampa Lug is the historian for the Capitol Area HOG. He has lots of stories from the thousands of miles he has ridden across the USA. 42 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
FREMONT HARLEY OWNERS GROUP PRESENTS...
THE 23RD ANNUAL SANDY CORLEY MEMORIAL RUN KICKOFF BENEFIT BASH - SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2011
Doors open at 6:00. Live music, benefit auction, and more. Details to be announced. At the Grand Haven Eagles Aerie #925, 20 N. Second St. Grand Haven, MI 49417 (Hall donated by the Eagles Arie #925 & the Eagle Riders)
THURSDAY - SATURDAY: June 16-18, 2011
GET YOUR TICKETS EARLY! RAFFLE: $5 DONATIONS
$40 IN ADVANCE, $50 STARTING 6/16 (MIDNIGHT) 2011 Harley-Davidson FXD Super Glide. Includes: 2 nights of rustic camping on-site! Fireworks, Ride-In Bike Show, Field Events, World Famous H.O.G. Auction, Self-Guided Tour through West Michigan, Forgotten Eagles® Beverage Tent. Adult Party Atmosphere \ Food Available No Pets Please!
DOUBLE JJ RESORT: Rothbury, MI
LIVE MUSIC:
Thur. - Sat. night
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PRIMITIVE CAMPING
Thursday:
Opens Wednesday at 12:00 Noon $10.00 per person, per day (Wed. & Thurs. only) Must have event ticket for early camping or trailer drop-off.
Local Bands FrIday:
Local Bands & Warrant saTurday:
Local Bands & TBA
Event proceeds benefit the Sandy Corley Memorial Run Fund at Mercy Health Partners, Johnson Family Center for Cancer Care.
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All proceeds go to the 23rd Annual Sandy Corley Memorial run, one of the largest fund raisers for cancer research and equipment in the state of Michigan. APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 43
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APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 45
MV Agusta Pure
Motorcycle Art, Design & Function By Tim Ostrander The MV Agusta Collection is the private collection of Gary Kohs, Birmingham, Michigan. Gary has been an avid collector of MV Agusta motorcycles for many years and has what is arguably the most comprehensive collection of vintage and contemporary MV Agusta Motorcycles in the world today. Gary has ridden bikes since he was twenty-one. Why twenty-one Gary states from his web site… ..”Well my parents told me they didn’t care what I did after twenty-one, but until then they would appreciate my not riding a motorcycle. When I turned twenty-one I bought a Triumph Bonneville 750. I still have it and it is as nice today as the day I bought it. The combination of appearance, sound and riding enjoyment just made it a rolling piece of art for me.” Now Gary is a fan of Massimo Tamburini who is an Italian motorcycle designer for motorcycle companies including: Cagiva, Ducati, MV Agusat, and Bimota, which he founded, together with Bianchi and Morri (BiMoTa). As for the MV Agusta itself, the company has been around since 1945 with its headquarters in Varese, Italy. One of the reasons Count Vincenzo Agusta together with his brother Domenico formed MV Agusta was that at the end of the Second World War there was a post-war need for cheap, efficient transportation, but then they got into racing were the company has since won over 3000 races and 63 World Championships overall. Being a Motorcyclist myself and looking at this collection I must say it is awesome, really think how many of us out there wish we had all of our bikes from our past restored and on display, and here’s a guy with over 75 bikes. One of my favorite bikes to see was the 1954 175 Disco Volante CS I love the style of the gas tank. The MV Agusta collection will be on display at the Midland Center for the Arts Alden B. Dow Museum of Science & Art till April 10th. Call the Midland Center for the Arts (989-631-5931) or visit the MV Agusta Collection website http://www.themvagustacollection.com
46 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
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APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 51
WE SERVICE ALL V-TWINS! Call today for an appointment! 52 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
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Installing A Fuel Sight Gauge By Tyler Malinky – Lowbrow Customs
This shows how easy it is to install a fuel sight gauge into the side of your gas tank. A sight gauge can be handy, especially if you have a small gas tank, for seeing when you are running low on gas. We show the installation on a new Sporty gas tank, if you are doing this mod on a gas tank that has had gas in it, please be sure that you clean it out thoroughly before welding so you don’t blow yourself up. We started with one of our own fuel sight gauge kits, though there are many available on the market or if you have a lathe you can make your own bungs.
Figure where you want each bung and mark it on your tank, center punch the spot, and drill a pilot hole with a small drill bit. You can now use your step bit to drill the proper diameter hole (5/8” in the case of our bungs). The use of cutting fluid makes it drill easier and keeps from burning up your expensive bits. Once you have your holes it is a good idea to work on getting out all the metal shavings from your tank with compressed air.
The basic tools needed: drill, step bit (or you can use standard drill bits, but step bits, also called unibits, rule), center punch, cutting fluid and a marker.
Clean any oil or dirt from the bungs and the gas tank in preparation for welding. The flanges on the sight glass bungs work well to keep the same stand-off height and make it easy to weld to the 54 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
thinner sheet metal. Tack in place, and get to welding. Be careful to not overdo it with the heat and distort the threads in the bungs.
Here we go, bungs welded in and ready to install the sight gauge kit. The bungs are 1/8” NPT as are the supplied chrome-plated brass elbow fittings. Simply thread the elbow fittings into the bungs, it is a good idea to use some thread sealant. I use Hylomar Universal Blue Racing Formula Gasketing & Sealing Compound. Dab a bit on the threads and you are golden.
By swiveling the fittings at different angles, you can get different looks, from a curved or S-shaped sight gauge to a straight one, in any color of fuel line you want. Article contributed by Lowbrow Customs www.lowbrowcustoms.com
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www.WizardsProducts.com APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 55
Your Thunder Roads Events Calendar APRIL 2011 April 1, 2011 Ladies Garage Party MotorCity HD, Farmington Hills, MI. Jump Start motorcycle simulator, door prizes, games. Party will be from 6pm - 8pm Call 248-473-7433 for more info. April 1- 2, 2011 22nd Annual PigFest Ramada Lansing Hotel and Conference Center, Lansing. Prereg event only. Live entertainment Fri nite. Sat 1-5pm entertainment & Pool party. Sat.Dinner 6pm. Live entertainment Sat 8pm-12am. Cost $35 per person. Rooms avail. Raffles, 50/50’s, etc. Call 517-316-1337 or go to www.harleyrider.net April 3, 2011 Giant Motorcycle Swap Meet Birch Run Birch Run Expo. 11am - 4pm. Adults $9, Kids 6-12 $2, parking free. Commercial vendors, dealers, swap meet booths, loads of parts, accessories, leathers, leather repair, apparel. Buy, sell, or swap. 800-968-4242. www. motorcycleswap.com. (See ad this issue) April 8 - 9, 2011 Open House Ray C’s HD, Lapeer, MI. Come celebrate our 30th year in business. Demo rides. Call 810-664-9261. www.raycsh-d. com. (See ad this issue) April 8 – 10, 2011 Spring Open House M/C Leatherworks MC, Washington, MI. Call for details 586.786.3050. www.mcleatherworks.com April 9, 2011 2nd Annual 9 Ball Tournament Hall Of Fame Billiards, Warren MI. $35 Per Person. Reg 12pm, Practice 1pm, 1:30 Draw/Start Sharp. Field limited to 64 Players. Door prizes & raffles. Leathernecks MC, WhiskeyAlpha Chapter. (586)929-8880 April 9, 2011 Spring Cleaning Open House MotorCity HD, Farmington Hills, MI. Free Food, Demo rides (weather permitting), & door prizes. Call (248)473.7433 for more info. April 9 – 10, 2011 Motorcycle Swap Meet & Expo Gibraltar Trade Center North, Mt Clemens, MI. Sat 12 – 7pm, Sun 12 – 6pm. Admission $7. Motorcycle parts & accessories. Call 586-465-6400 or www.gibraltartrade.com. (See ad this issue) April 16, 2011 Bikers For Blood Zips HD, Gaylord, MI. Give a pint get a quart (of oil). Michigan Blood Bus will be at Zips 10am-2pm. Call 866-6678443. (See ad this issue) April 16, 2011 Spring Open House ABC HD, Waterford. 11am – 3pm. Bike show reg 9am – 12pm, awards 3pm. Free food, music and more. Call 248-674-3175. www.abcharleydavidson.com. (See ad this issue) April 16, 2011 Support Your Troops Road Knights MC, 8851 Hiawatha Rd., West Olive, MI. Starts 2pm. $5 donation for entry. Proceeds donated to Soldiers of Iraq. April 17, 2011 Giant Motorcycle Swap Meet Detroit Area Suburban Collection Showplace, Novi. 11 am to 4 pm. Adults $10, Kids 6-12 $3. Parking $5. The largest Swap
56 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
Meet in the Midwest . Commercial vendors, dealers, swap meet booths, loads of parts, accessories, leathers, leather repair, apparel. Buy, sell, or swap. 800-968-4242. www. motorcycleswap.com. (See ad this issue) April 23, 2011 8th Annual Motorcycle Swap Meet Wexford County Civic Center, Cadillac, MI. 10am to 4pm. Admission: $9, Under age 12 $2(with adult). Vendors. Buy, Sell, Trade, Swap Meet, New and Used Motorcycle Parts, Bikes, Leather, Novelties, food and beer. Paragons Promotion, 800-800-6034. www.paragonspromotion.com. (See ad this issue) April 23, 2011 6th Annual North Shore Blessing of the Bikes Gibraltar Trade Center North, Mt Clemens, MI. Reg 11am, Blessing 2pm. Free entrance, Food, activities & patches. Vendors, music and more. Call 586-557-0655. www.northshore.org. (See ad this issue) April 23, 2011 Sandy Corley Memorial Run Kick Off Bash Grand Haven Eagles, Grand Haven, MI. Doors open 6pm. Benefit Auction. (See ad this issue) April 23, 2011 Brandon J Webb Memorial Poker Run to Benefit Camp Hope Swartz Creek, MI. 1Reg 9:30am – 11am. 100 mile run. First 100 reg receive free t-shirt. Fee $15 per person, $5 per poker hand. Call 810 577 4457 for more info April 29, 2011 Diamond P Chopper & Great Lakes HD Cancer Ride Dpt Great Lakes HD, Bay City 6pm for Dow Event Ctr in Sag for Saginaw Sting Indoor Arena Football Game. Come show support for Fred Pickering & Diamond P Chopper to raise money and awareness for the Cancer community. $5 per person for game. Ride cost $5 donation per person. Call 989-686-0400 and ask for Joe or Mike. April 29 – May 1, 2011 14th Annual Crazy Sue Graveyard Run 10am start/Southern riders meet Monroe Clubhouse/ northern riders meet Washtenaw Clubhouse. $20 per person, $30 couple donation. $5 off w/military ID. Live entertainment & dinner at Monroe Clubhouse Campgrounds after run. Call 734-848-9927 or Barney 734-497-4257. (See ad this issue) April 30, 2011 Trout Town Vintage Motorcycle Show and Swap Meet Kaliseum Recreation Complex, Kalkaska, MI. Vintage Bike Show & Museum. New & used parts & accessories, custom bikes, vendors, and more! Open 9am-6pm. Admission $5 per person, children under 12 free. Contact Judy 231-409-3255. www.trouttownmotorcycleshow.com April 30, 2011 Thunder on the Grand Pre-party Bike ride leaving Vermontville Syrup Fest (ball field) 4pm. Sign up 3pm. Ride w/2 stops, ending Nashville Pit Row Bar for pre party. Funds to go got American Cancer Society, bands, auction, bikini bike wash & biker games. Call for more info 517-282-9846 April 30, 2011 Pancake Breakfast & Red Cross Blood Drive MotorCity HD, Farmington Hills. Bkfst 9am -12pm. Blood Drive 10am – 4pm. Call (248)473.7433 for more info. April 30, 2011 Garage Sale McDonald Ford, Freeland, Sponsored by Great Lakes HD, Bay City. 9am – 5pm. Reg by April 20th at GLHD. Call 800594-7343.
April 30, 2011 Annual Spring Bash Party Pat’s RH, Muskegon. Food, swap meet, virtual poker run, carnival games. ABATE Region 5. Everyone welcome. Call Bob 231-689-0774 or Snake 231-557-8422 for info. April 30, 2011 Open House/ WRKR Bike Giveaway Hamilton Harley-Davidson, Sturgis MI. Event Starts @ Noon. www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com
MAY 2011 May 1, 2011 12th Annual Blessing of the Bikers Church of the Living Word. Ovid, MI. 9:30am – 10:30am Arrival, free refreshments. Biker service 10:30am – 11:30am w/music. Hog Roast 11:30am $5 all you can eat w/entertainment. Ride in bike show reg by 12pm. Blessing 1:30pm. Charity ride 1:45pm $10 ea person. Call 989834-5950. www.cotlw.org. (See ad this issue) May 1, 2011 Lakeshore Blessing of the Bikes Ottawa County Fairgrounds, Holland, MI. Gates open 10 am to 3 pm. Donation of $5 per bike. Drawings/awards begin at 1:30 with Blessing at 2 pm. Music and Vendors. Contact: 616-283-0591, www.blessingofthebikes.com. May 1, 2011 5th Annual Blessing of the Bikes St. Louis Center, Chelsea, MI. Gates open 11:30am, blessing 1:15pm, entry donation $5 per person. Food, entertainment, tours. 734-475-8430. www.stlouiscenter.org. May 1, 2011 Rally at Battle Alley Downtown Holly, MI. Vintage motorcycle rally and HIM Blessing of the bikes. 9:30am – 4pm. Bike show, biker service, blessing. Call 248-328-0940. www.h.i.m.org. May 1st, 2011 9th Annual Walnecks Monroe Michigan Swap & Show Monroe County Fairgrounds, Monroe, MI. 8am to 3pm. Joint indoor/outdoor event. $6 for adults and FREE PARKING. For info call 630-985-2097 or visit www.walneckswap.net May 4, 2011 Museum Davidson Express present 100 years of motorcycling, Otsego Historic Museum, downtown Otsego. Starts May 4, 2011 open every Wed form 6-8pm and Sat 9am2pm. For more info call 269-694-9579 or davidson-express.com May 6, 2011 Davidson Express Spring Bike Show Starts noon downtown Otsego. 18 classes plus pro & best of show. Celebrity judges Matt Davis, Editor of Dice Magazine & Tim & Mike McNamer of Ballistic Cycle. Call 269-694-9579 or www.davidson-express.com for more info. May 6 – 7, 2011 4th Annual SCA Motorcycle Run Shiawassee Conservation Club, Owosso, MI. Fri – 7pm horseshoes, bike & car show. Sat – 7am – 12pm brkfst, 8am – 12pm run sign up. 6pm last bike in. Music, food & drink specials, raffles and more. Call Mike 989-666-2506 or Mike 734-693-0944. May 6 - 7, 2011 11th Annual Bikin’ For Burns Fri Pre-Party @ Shrine Circus Park, Clio, MI. Sat Ride @ Perani Event Center, Flint, MI. Both days live music, food, beer tents, vendors & auctions. $10 per person, kids 12 and under are free. Proceeds benefit Area Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Program. For info call 810-533-6456
Your Thunder Roads Events Calendar May 7, 2011 Bubs 73 Foundation 3rd Annual Benefit Ride Cost $20 per rider / $5 for non-rider. Start & finish at the HideA-Way, Vicksburg. Registration starts 11am / Ride starts @ 12pm. Call 269-720-3209 or 317-752-0346.
May 14, 2011 4th Annual Blessing of the Bikes Hamilton Harley-Davidson, Sturgis MI. St. Jude Fundraiser/ Food/ Music. Starts @ Noon. www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com
May 7, 2011 2nd Annual David Gilbert Poker Run 2750 S. M-43, Hastings, MI. Start 1pm. Fee $15 per bike, $20 w/pass. Ends Red Neck Willies on Bedford Rd. Hosted by Certified MC Ryders & Ladeez.
May 15, 2011 First Annual Ride To Read and Bike Blessing Genesee County Literacy Coalition. Refreshments, bike ride. $10 per person. Reg 2pm - 3pm. Blessing at 3:10pm. Ride leaves 3:30pm. Ride ends at Players Inn, Davison. Reg & Blessing at Trinity United Presbyterian Church, Flint. Contact Aileen / Sassy at 810-919-5078
May 7, 2011 Davidson Express Spring Ride Benefiting Otsego VFW Post 3030 Memorial. Come celebrate “LD’s” 50th Birthday! Ride leaves downtown Otsego noon. Rtns to the house for music & dinner. Call 269-694-9579 or www.davidson-express.com for more info. May 7, 2011 Harleyfest Kickoff Party MotorCity HD, Farmington Hills, MI. Live Music incl known band TBA, WRIF Live broadcast. Free BBQ, door prizes & fitness pole demo & contest. 100 keys given away for 2011 Sportster at Harleyfest June 18th. Call 248. 473.7433 for more info. May 7 – 8, 2011 24th Annual Swap Meet & Show Branch Cty Fairgrounds, Coldwater, MI. Vendors, bike & car show, Spectator $5. Sun Bike blessing 1pm. Call 517-2785367. May 8, 2011 Midland Motorcycle Swap Meet Midland Fairgrounds. 11am – 4pm. Ride in bike show. Adults $7. Contact Cheryl at 989-835-8486. May 12 – 15, 2011 Camping for Blessing of The Bikes Weekend in Baldwin/Bitely Fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis, Pig Roast, Biker Games, Live music all wknd, Vendors, Camping, community Bon Fire & grill Fri night. Camp prices incl pig roast & entertainment on Sat. Thu: 3 nights $35; Fri - 2 nights $30; Sat- 1 night $20. Call (231) 343-4711 or www.blessingofthebikesbaldwin.com May 14, 2011 Annual Jackson Blessing of The Bikes First Church of The Nazarene, Jackson, MI (New Location) Starts 11am. Door prizes, food, music, kids area, Ride-In Bike Show. Reg by 1pm, $5 charge. Michigan Traveling VN Wall, W/Service at 1pm. Individual Bike Blessings available from CMA all day. Admission free. Call 517-782-7084 May 14, 2011 Blessing of the Bikes Agape Apostolic Church, Milan, MI. Starts noon Wilson Park. Short illustrated Sermon, bike show, stunt shows, and prayer for all riders. Ride after Blessing. Part of Discover Milan Day from 9am - 3pm includes Classic Cars, Food, Parades, and other festivities. Call 877-8-AGAPE-8 or www.agapeapostolic. org. May 14, 2011 Caseville Blessing of the Bikes 1p.m. at Caseville Family Arena. Rain Date; Sunday, May 15, 1p.m. Arena open for coffee, donuts and restrooms. Info: 586651-8855 May 14, 2011 19th Annual Baldwin Poker Run Crossroads Bar, Baldwin, MI. Sign up 11:30am. Starts 12pm. $10 donation per person. ABATE Region 5. Call Bob at 231689-0774, Snake 231-557-8422.
May 15, 2011 Para-Dice MC 39th Annual Blessing of the Bikes Baldwin Airport, Baldwin, MI. Gates open at 9 am and Blessing 1 pm. May 15, 2011 Back Yard Swap Meet Bubba’s Tri-City Cycles, Linwood, MI. 9am -4pm. Setup fee is $10.00 for charity. Call 989-697-5525. (See ad this issue) May 21, 2011 Leathernecks MC Spring Party American Legion, Lansing. Starts 1400 hrs, food 1400 hrs. Cash bar, games, door prizes. (See ad this issue) May 21, 2011 Habitat for Humanity Blessing of the Bikers Motz County Park, St. Johns. 10am – 1pm. Bike show: $10 donation. Reg 9:45 – 11:15am. Charity ride: $15 donation; 1 – 2 pm. Blessing of the Bikers: 12:30pm. Lunch: $5 donation. Live band: 11am – 12:30pm. All proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity of Clinton County. Call Sue Carroll at 989.227.1771
May 22, 2011 2nd Annual Motorcycle Swap Meet & Antique Bike Show St. Joseph County Fairgrounds, Centreville, MI. Open 9am – 4pm. Admission $5. Under 16 free. Pre-86 bike ride in free. Bike show open to pre-1986 motorcycles. Entry fee $5 per bike. Wolverine Chap – Antique Motorcycle Club of America. Call Jeff at 269-521-4203 or Lynn at 269-628-2160. www. wolverineamca.com. May 22, 2011 Biker Sunday Stewart Road Christian Ministries Center, Monroe, MI. Blessing of the bikes, bike show, ride, all you can eat pasta dinner. Riders $20, pass $10, dinner only $10. Pre-reg bike show 10:15. Call Jim at 734-625-7833. May 22, 2011 2nd Annual Jack Morse Memorial Run Reg 10am, Sandy’s HD, Fremont, MI. $10 per person, $15 per couple donation for Grand Rapids Veterans fund in Jack’s name. Ride leaves 11am. Ride ends 7 Mile Inn around 6 pm. For info Marina at marinabeardsley@gmail. com May 22, 2011 2nd Annual Freedom Riders Biker Blessing MI Ave Academy, Paw Paw, MI. Free event. 10am Reg. 11am biker rally, 12pm escorted ride ends Roadhouse Grill, Paw Paw. Door prizes & give aways. Call 269-655-5360. www.freedomeridersmi.com May 22, 2011 2nd Annual Outdoor Swap Meet Kent City Lounge, Kent City, MI. Food, music, bikini bike wash, motorcycle show. Email Dave at: djtbiker@sbcglobal. net or Fred at: fnabkey@msn.com
May 21, 2011 Feed The Children Poker Run Nicholson’s, Ann Arbor, MI. Reg starts 10:30am. Ride Dpts 11:30am. Rider $20, pass $5. Live band, prizes. Benefits Feed the Children. Sponsored by STAR Chap 211 & 317. Contact Michele 248 259 5680 or http://FTCPokerun.yolasite.com.
May 28, 2011 Fly in Ride in Davidson Express presents Dawn Patrol. Plainwell Airport, Plainwell, MI. All you can eat pancake breakfast $6 sponsored by Otsego Lions Club. Fun ride leaving at 11am. Call “LD” at 269-694-9579 or www.davidsonexpress.com for more information.
May 21, 2011 3rd Annual Biker Blessing and Memorial Cancer Ride Merriman Road Baptist Church, Garden City, MI. Starts 9:30am. Blessing Noon. Music, games, food, bike wash. Family Fun. Ride 1pm. blessing free. Ride $20 per bike/ $25 with pass. Darrelm13@wowway.com. www.mrbcfaithriders.webs. com.
May 28, 2011 8th Annual Dillinger Ride The Inn Between Saloon, Lewisville, MI. Sign up 11am 12pm. Run starts 12pm. Dinner 5pm. Entry fee $15 per per./ $25 per couple incl dinner. All Proceeds Go To Hospice. Band starts 6pm. Must be 21. Call 989-428-3522. (See ad this issue)
May 21, 2011 Wheels For Blums Bennigans, Plymouth, MI. Bike show. Event time: 11am. Admission: $5. Contact for more info: 734.422.2801. Proceeds From This Event Will Help Veterans. www.alrpost32.com
Increase your attendance by posting your event in Thunder Roads Magazine of Michigan
May 21, 2011 1st Annual Victory Biker Church Biker Blessing Victory Biker Church, Lennon, MI. Opens 11am. Ride leaves at 2pm. Food, music & more! For info call 810-965-5361 or visit www.victorybikerchurch.org May 22, 2011 Blessed in Hell Hell Creek Ranch, Hell, MI. Bike show, live music, vendors. Blessings at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm. $8 single, $10 doubles. Call Cody at 313-407-4671, Dave at 734-834-7694. May 22, 2011 2nd Annual Car/Motorcycle Show Baker College Center for Transportation Technology, Flint. Free to spectators & participants. Ride your bike in reg by 12pm. Vendors, bike show, food and much more. Doors and reg at 9am. Awards 3pm. For more information call 810-9195078 or email aileen.m.england@juno.com.
EVENT LISTINGS ARE FREE!!!
All Advertised Events in our Magazine will have their event Posted on the Pull Out Calendar and your Event will be Highlighted in the Thunder Roads Events Calendar of the Magazine and an EVENT Tab will be added to the page with your ad. Thunder Roads Magazine of Michigan – Your Michigan Biker Connection (Call about our Special Discounts for Charity Events) To get your event listed in Thunder Roads Magazine and on our website, send the information to thunderroadsmichigan@charter.net Event information must be received prior to the 10th of the month preceding the event month to be posted in the magazine. Remember to call ahead before planning to attend any event as the information/dates may change. Thunder Roads is Not responsible for errors or omissions.
APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 57
E V E N T
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DreamWeaver
in the wind Oh
that sun feels great today. I’m tired of the snow. I
is nice to take a breather along the beach and take in the sights along
love being in the wind on my motorcycle. Now it’s time to plan that
Lake Huron. Oscoda and Tawas are idea stops for some great food
wonderful summer trip that I’ve wanted. It’s been a couple of years
or ice cream. I like walking out on the docks and looking at the boats.
since I have had the pleasure to see the sites throughout Michigan and
Some of the boat owners will talk, but most just go about their business.
after the Full Circle Breast Cancer Motorcycle ride on June 18th, I’m
I like that. I do that too. After a visit to the water it will be time to head
taking a trip. Let’s see. I have my new rain gear from Grand Rapids
back home. I’ll take 23 to 13 then head to the horse barn in Kawkawlin.
Harley-Davidson. I picked that up when I stopped in to get the Rider’s
Mike, the barn owner might be there for a visit, but he’ll probably be rid-
Edge motorcycle safety class schedule. I enjoy coaching motorcycle
ing his bike. Even on weekends when we ride, the horses still have to
safety with that team. I have the new exhaust on the bike and the fluids
be taken care of. Someone else feeds them, but someone has to, you
are new. PK did a great job with the tuning and the new brakes on the
know what? But they are worth it. From the barn its home to get ready
front bring a peace of mind.
for work the next day.
I think I’ll head out from Montrose on M-57 west. I’ll take that all the
Ring Ring says the telephone!!! Ring Ring!! Hellooo (with a weak
way to US 31. I love riding along the coast line so maybe I’ll cruise on
voice). Hey Treeman, it’s Joe from Thunder Roads. Hey Joe, what’s
over to Muskegon and head north from there on 31. If I hit night fall in
up? (grrr) Hey Treeman do you have that article for next month? Uh,
Traverse City, that will be awesome. The Harley shop in Traverse City
yes, kinda. Hey Treeman, when can I get that article? Were you sleep-
is always a stop on my travels. I have purchased two Electra Glide
ing? Well, kinda. Just dreaming about riding my motorcycle. Dream-
Classics there and the sales team is very helpful. It will be nice to say
ing? Treeman you must have cabin fever bad. Yes Joe, I do. Well, tell
hello and get me a new shirt. I’ll stay at the Holiday Inn that night. I
me when that article is finished. Um Joe, I’m almost done. I have to put
like sitting on the waters edge and just relaxing. After some great food
some finishing touches on it and I’ll send it over to you. Thanks Tree-
downtown and a nice walk along the storefronts I think I’ll head back to
man, I look forward to seeing it and dude, you need to go polish up that
the room and enjoy that hot tub before heading to the balcony with my
bike. It’s almost time to ride again! Amen Joe, I’m with you on that.
favorite beverage from the local brew company and watch the sun set. The next day I believe I will head out after breakfast to the east and north. I think I’ll make my way up to the mighty Mackinaw Bridge. I’m going to ride the tunnel of trees on my way to the bridge. The trees
And so it is my friends, soon it will be time to make sure the motorcycles are ready to ride. Until we meet again, Rock on and Rock hard,
make a cover over the road and it has a lot of twists and small switch-
Salute and God Bless,
backs. I remember when I took the tunnel of trees a few years ago. It
Treeman
was fall and the sand had built up on some of the curves. It was an awakening moment when the back tire decided to go a direction of its own. I slowed down after that. I like stopping at Zip’s Harley-Davidson shop in downtown Mackinaw. There might be a new set of sunglasses that I can get and surely a t-shirt. The trip across the Mighty Mac is always a favorite of mine. I try to get on the grid and just relax. I sit upright and let the front tire go back and forth at it’s own pace. Lunch in St. Ignace it will be. I think I will stay in St. Ignace that night. That way I can park the bike and hit the local watering hole. I can hand out some Thunder Roads magazines and meet some of the local folks. I get so many stories to write about from the people that I meet. A cold beer and a few new friends will be a great way to finish a day in the UP. I have to head back on the third day so I better get up early. I will head south down US 23. There are some great sites along that route and it
60 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
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If You Are A Biker Friendly Business And Would Like To See Your Business Listed And Receive Thunder Roads Magazines Each Month Call 989-861-0682 (BFD Listing only $240 per year)
ReAders Pick Up Your Copy Of Thunder Roads Magazines Each Month At These Fine Locations.
Dealers & Service ABC Harley- Davidson 4405 Highland Rd Waterford, MI. 48328 248-674-3175 www.abcharleydavidson.com Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Rd. Battle Creek, MI. 49015 269-979-2233 Big D’s Trikes & Bikes 6306 East US 223 Palmyra, MI. 49268 517-759-3236 Blackbeard Powersports 36745 Groesbeck Hwy. Clinton Twp., MI. 48035 586-792-2626 www.blackbeardpowersports.com Davidson Express 107 E. Allegan St., Otsego MI 49078 269-694-9579 Forest Cycle Works Big Dog Motorcycles 2109 Dort Hwy., Flint, MI. 48506 810-239-6480
RED ARROW CYCLE 9540 Stadium Drive Kalamazoo, MI 49009 269-978-8433 Service HD/ Metric/Sportbike/ATV
Gildner’s Harley-Davidson 2723 S. M 76 West Branch, MI. 48661 989-345-1330 www.gildnershd.com
Clor Cycle 125 S. Miller Rd., Saginaw, MI 48609 989-781-2636 www.clorcycle.com
Great Lakes Harley-Davidson 3850 S. Huron Rd., Bay City, MI. 48706 989-686-0400 www.greatlakeshd.com
D & B Cycle 21251 Groesbeck Hwy Warren, MI. 48089 586-447-1234 Dyno Tune
Motor City Harley Davidson 34900 Grand River Ave. Farmington Hills, MI. 48335 248-473-7433 www.motorcityharley.com
Fred’s Bikes & Trikes 27477 Schoolcraft Rd Livonia, MI. 48150 734-522-2343 www.fredsbikesandtrikes.com
Planet Powersports 647 E. Chicago Rd. US 12 Coldwater, MI. 49036 866-686-0859 www.planet-powersports.com
Hunt’s Hog Shop 3030 S. Cedar St. Lansing, MI. 48910 517-394-7840 www.huntshogshop.com
Thunder Allee Cycles 4164 Lake St., Bridgman, MI. 49106 269-465-4133 www.thunderalleecycles.com
Jerry B’s Cycle Works 25430 Harper Ave St. Clair Shores, MI. 48081 586-773-BIKE
Timberwolf Cycle 3668 Bay Rd., Saginaw, MI. 48603 989-497-8282 / 866-497-8282 toll free www.timberwolfcycle.com
Wolverine Harley Davidson 44660 N. Gratiot Ave. Clinton Twp., MI. 48036 586-463-7700 www.wolverinehd.com
MC Parts & Service 2 Orange Harleys 74000 M-40, Lawton, MI. 49065 269-624-4574 www.2orangeharleys.com American Wings Powersports 32640 E. Michigan Ave. Suite C Wayne, MI. 48184 734-727-4903 www.awpowersports.com BikerGarage101.Com 3950 Arrow Dr. Oscoda, Mi. 48750 989-569-3660 www.bikergarage101.com Cad to Chrome-Trike Conversion 110 S. Main St, Oakley, MI. 989-845-4110 www.cadtochrome.com
62 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
M & C Cycle 133 E Huron St., Bad Axe, Mi. 48413 989-269-7141 www.mccycle.net McCord’s All American Cycle Shop LLC 7461 Murray Rd. Jackson, Mi. 49201 517-783-1253 www.mccordcycle.com Pro1 Cycle 944 E. Emmett St. Battle Creek, MI 49014 269-441-PRO1 www.pro1cycle.com M43 Powersports 327 E. Saginaw Hwy. Grand Ledge, Mi. 48837 517-925-8154 www.rccsportbike.com
Rick’s Custom Cycle 31532 Ford Rd. Garden City, MI. 48135 734-762-2077 www.rickscustomcycle.com Riverside Auto & Motorcycle Parts & Service 104 N. State St, .Oscoda, MI. 48750 989-739-0930
Trailer Sales & Service Clyde’s Frame & Wheel 725 Cesar E. Chavez Ave Pontiac, MI 48340 248-338-0323 Jim’s Trailers Sales LLC Lansing, MI. 48911 517-887-2043 www.neomfg.com West Branch NAPA Auto, Truck & Trailer Parts 129 N 5th St. West Branch, Mi. 48661 989-345-7450 / 800-242-6124 www.wbtrailer.com
Bars & Restaurants
Bike Nights
Coyote Crossing Resort Restaurant/Bar, 10 Deluxe Cabins 8593 S. 13 Rd., Cadillac, MI 231-862-3212 www.coyotecrossingresort.com
10th Street Saloon 136 N Main St. Plainwell, MI. 49080 269-685-9595 Bike Night Tuesday
DT’s Food & Spirits 10980 Dunnigan, Emmett, MI 48022 810-384-8100
Longbranch Saloon Eatery & Bar 606 Spruce St. Vicksburg, Mi. 49097 269-649-1961 www.longbranchsaloonmi.com Bike Night Tuesday
Inn Between Saloon 4711 E. Kinde Rd. Port Hope, MI. 48468 989-428-3522 Legends Sports Bar & Grille 1027 E. Michigan Ave. Paw Paw, MI 49079 269-415-0123 www.legendssportspark.com Michigan Brewing Co 1093 Highview Dr. Webberville, MI. 48892 517-521-3600 ROAD HOUSE 70 Grand Ledge Hwy. (M-43) 7 Miles W. of Grand Ledge MI. Mulliken, MI. 48861 517-649-8556 Road Runners 177 S Main St. Vermontville MI 49096 517-726-1043 Shot N Shell 201 Woodside Ave Essexville, MI. 48732 989-894-4290 Village Hide-A-Way 111 E. Prairie St. Vicksburg MI 49097 269-649-3134 Drink & Food Specials
The Gravel Pit Pub & Grub 7990 N. Telegraph Rd. Newport, MI. 48166 734-586-8600 See us on Facebook Wednesday Bike Night Timber’s Steak House 6569 East County Line Rd. South Branch, Mi. 48761 989-257-3230 Wednesday Bike Night Quaker Steak & Lube 4515 28th St. Grand Rapids, MI. 616-285-9464 www.thelube.com Wednesday Bike Night Iron Horse Bar & Grill 3592 Main St. Akron, MI. 48701 989-691-5761 Wednesday Bike Night Boomers 6650 Highland Rd Waterford, MI. 48327 248-666-6080 Thursday Bike Night Stingers Bar & Grill 49110 Grand River Ave Wixom, MI. 48393 248-449-9667 Thursday Bike Night
Wil Lew Lounge 3005 E. Midland Rd Bay City, MI. 48706 989-684-9109 Thursday Bike Night
Leather & Repair AM Leather 30759 Eureka Rd. Romulus, MI. 48174 734-946-4663
Entertainment Hurt Me Tommy-Rock Band Find Us on Myspace & Facebook Contact JD @ 269-343-1804 Parties, Weddings, Bike Nights, Bars
Lodging & Camping Barefoot Beach Resort 7474 N US 23 Oscoda, MI. 48750 989-739-1818 www.barefoot-beach.com
J & J Western Store 14241 US 12 Brooklyn, MI. 49230 517-592-2813 June’s Taylor & Dry Cleaning 25924 Five Mile Rd Redford, MI. 48239 313-535-2270 Hunt’s Hog Shop 3030 S. Cedar St. Lansing, MI. 48910 517-394-7840
Custom Painting & Fabrication
2-Tone 24359 Red Arrow Hwy. Mattawan, MI. 49071 269-720-0694 Bro’s Manufacturing LLC Custom Frames 2653 7th St. Muskegon MI. 49444 231-578-6079 www.brosmfg.com
Leather Works 57695 Van Dyke Washington, MI. 48094 586-786-3050 www.mcleatherworks.com Retail Warehouse 1640 S Centerville Rd. Sturgis, MI. 49091 269-651-2464
Insurance
Chop Docs Choppers 5275 Dixie Hwy Waterford, MI. 48329 248-255-5095 www.chopdocschoppers.com
Cycle Insurance Specialists VanDuren-Irving West Insurance 2140 44th ST. SE Grand Rapids, MI. 49508 800-815-9372 www.bestbikerate.com
S & M Custom Powder Coating 37920 371/2 St. Paw Paw , MI 49079 269-998-2720
Fun Protection Insurance 16223 E. Nine Mile Rd Eastpointe, MI. 48021 800-447-2691/www.funprotection.com
XTRAORDINAIR 1040 Veto St. NW Grand Rapids, MI. 49504 616-458-5925
Mid-Valley Insurance 9080 Gratiot Rd. Saginaw, MI 48609 989-781-3070 / www.midv.net APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 63
OUR ADVERTISERS’
BIKE NIGHTS Monday
Red Ox Tavern (Utica) Tuesday
Hooters (Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Novi) Hooters (Lansing, Flint, Roseville, Taylor) Wednesday
FastTrax (Kalamazoo) Quaker Steak (Grand Rapids) Roadhouse Bar (Paw Paw) Shifters ( Kalamazoo) Timbers SH (South Branch) Wagon Wheel (Portland) Thursday
Boomer’s RH (Clarkston) Stingers Bar (Wixom) Wil Lew Lounge (Bay City) Friday
Gibraltar Trade Ctr (Mt Clemens)
Photography Diamond Photo Tom Rossman 586-899-7442 www.myspace.com/tom_diamondphoto
Web Design Crusecom Technology Consultants 4238 California Street Oscoda, MI 48750 989-739-5070 www.crusecom.com
Pineview Grocery & Gas 3277 W River Rd. Sanford, MI 48657 989-687-5267 Rourke Builders Home Remodeling & Additions FREE Estimates Call Randy @ 989-739-3501 Serving Northern MI. Steensma Lawn & Power Kalamazoo / Plainwell 269-375-6476 / 269-685-9557 www.steensmalawn.com John Deere / Stihl / Exmark / Trailers
Miscellaneous Endless Hair Designs 590 E. Rose City Rd. Rose City, MI. 48654 989-685-8400 Bikers Specials
Get Thunder Roads Magazine of Michigan
Delivered To Your Home or Business. One year (12 issues) subscription is only $30.
Name___________________________________ Address_________________________________ City____________________________________ State_________________ Zip_______________ Make Check payable to: Thunder Roads of Michigan
Advertise Your Bike Night With Thunder Roads Magazine of Michigan and Your Bike Night Could Be Listed Here Too. Call or E-mail for More Information 989.861.0682 / thunderroadsmichigan@charter.net
64 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
Mail check and this form to: Thunder Roads of Michigan P.O. Box 56, Oscoda MI 48750
APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 65
Biking with a Passenger Anyone who has ridden a motorcycle knows that it can be exhilarating and fun. And there are times when a biker may want to travel with a passenger. Riding with a passenger can be a great experience for both the driver and the passenger, but it is important that the proper preparations are made to ensure your safety. The most important thing to remember when considering riding with a passenger is that both of you must be comfortable. You should be an experienced motorcyclist and comfortable with your skills and your bike before adding a passenger to the mix. If your riding companion is scared or nervous, it can make a big difference in the way they react, which can affect the bike’s handling. The passenger must be able to relax and work with the driver. The passenger should also be alert and act as another set of eyes and ears out on the road. The first step in making a passenger feel comfortable is a prepared driver. Start by making sure your bike is capable of carrying two people. You may need to adjust your suspension to accommodate the extra weight, so check your owner’s manual before heading out. Be sure you have a seat that can comfortably accommodate two. In addition, talk to your passenger about what their responsibilities are out on the road. Don’t assume they know.
Before Riding
• Protective Gear – Make sure your passenger knows that they need to wear a helmet, jacket, gloves, boots and long pants if they are going to be riding with you. The proper attire can help reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident. • Mounting – Explain to your passenger that the rider mounts first, gets the bike pointed in the right direction and has the bike completely under control before the passenger mounts. The passenger should always mount and dismount the bike from the left side by first putting a foot on the peg and then swinging the other leg over the seat. They should try to keep their weight as evenly distributed as possible. • Feet on the Pegs – Once on the bike, it’s important that the passenger keep both feet on the pegs at all times, unless the driver indicates otherwise. If the rider takes their feet off the pegs, it can throw off the distribution of weight and cause the bike to tip. In some states, the law requires foot pegs for passengers, so make sure you know what the guidelines in your state are before you head out.
During the Ride • Practice – Let your passenger know that their added weight can cause the bike to handle differently. Find a large parking lot or a straight section of road and take the time to practice braking and stopping so both you and your passenger can get used to the feel of it. • Braking – Weight distribution will change as the bike comes to a stop. The quicker the braking, the more sudden the change in weight distribution. As you come to a stop, your passenger will automatically lurch forward. To minimize the effects of the shift in weight, make sure your passenger keeps their feet on the foot pegs and holds on to the driver around the waist, at the hips or by the belt. As the driver, you should leave plenty of time for braking to avoid abrupt stops. • Leaning – Instruct your passenger to lean with the bike while turning or around corners. They should lean gently and avoid sudden movements. The passenger should hold on to the driver and move with the movement of the bike and driver. If your passenger has never ridden a cycle before, you should not take any high-speed turns until they understand leaning and can do it properly. • Turning – When turning, it is important that the passenger move with the driver and help maintain the stability of the bike. Again, this is best accomplished by having the passenger hold on to the driver, counterbalance to keep the weight evenly distributed and avoid any abrupt movements. • Stop Often – Be sure that both you and your passenger have ample opportunity to get off the bike, stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. It will help keep both of you alert and make he ride more enjoyable. Riding with a passenger can be safe and fun if you provide these tips to your passenger, talk through their responsibilities and yours, and practice until you’re both comfortable before heading out on the road. If your passenger moves in synch with the bike and the driver, maintains evenly centered weight distribution, holds on to the driver and is relaxed and comfortable, you can have a great time riding. But remember, it all starts with a prepared driver who is confident and in control. Before heading out on the road, alone or with a companion, you should also make sure you have the right insurance policy to protect you from the unexpected. The companies of the Foremost Insurance Group have been providing specialty insurance programs for over 50 years and they have the experience and expertise to offer a superior motorcycle insurance policy. A Foremost policy offers things like Safety Apparel Coverage, Optional Equipment Coverage, Towing and Roadside Assistance including Trip Interruption Coverage, flexible payment plans and money-saving discounts. Foremost has specially-trained claims representatives that handle only motorcycle and off-road vehicle claims – it’s not just one of the things they do, it’s all they do. We have the experience and expertise to handle claims quickly and fairly. For more information about a specialized Motorcycle insurance policy from Foremost, you can call: “Tim T.” your Biker Agent and Thunder Roads Rep. at T.A. Tenbusch, Ins, 248-840-2205 and see what he can offer with the Foremost Motorcycle program or any of his other specialized programs for off-road vehicles, mobile homes, motor homes, travel trailers, personal watercraft and boats! 66 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
E V E N T
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Stratoliner Deluxe ®
the all-new 113-cubic-inch
tratoliner Deluxe Time to S bag everything else. ®
® •Time Comes standard with aeverything fairing that includes integrated to bag else. speakers and connector for iPod players, plus a convenient, handlebar-mounted audio control system. • A pair of large, color-matched, locking ® players, •hard Comes standard fairing that integrated speakers and connector for iPod113-cubicsidebags makewith for aexcellent longincludes hauls and short trips. • Electronic fuel injected, plus (1854cc) a convenient, handlebar-mounted controlgreat system. A pair large,• color-matched, locking inch air-cooled, pushrod V-twinaudio produces thrust• at any of speed. The Star® Accessories hard sidebags make longparts hauls shortStartrips. • Electronic fuel injected, 113-cubicCatalog is packed fullforof excellent high-quality thatandinvite owners to fully express their individuality. ® inch (1854cc) air-cooled, pushrod V-twin produces great thrust at any speed. • The Star Accessories Catalog is packed full of high-quality parts that invite Star owners to fully express their individuality.
Custom Connection Motorsports 335 Helmer Road North • Battle Creek (Springfield) MI 49037 Phone: 269.288.0160 • Fax: 269.288.0164
We build it. You make it your own. Specifications subject to change without notice.
We build it. You make it your own. Specifications subject to change without notice.
68 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011
Motorcycle Lawyers You need a lawyer who rides.