Thunder Roads Texas January 2011 by Thunder Roads Texas

The MOST Comprehensive Event Listing Published in Texas!

Also Inside:

The Posse’s Still Here... We’ve Just Grown

 2010 Christmas Toy Runs  Protect Your Rights  How to Become a World Class Pinstriper in 3 Easy Steps  TRT BIKE NIGHT @ East Texas Choppers

January 2011

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Contents 

January 2011 On the Cover 28

The Posse’s Still Here... We’ve Just Grown!

This Month

8 9 14 26

2010 Christmas Toy Runs Protect Your Rights How to Become a World Class Pinstriper in 3 Easy Steps Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT at East Texas Choppers

Regular Features

6 10 12 14 16 24 30 34

From the Editor Points Across Texas Snapshots PigTrails: Safety First Black Leather Blues: Bikers and Bands Review Music at the Lone Star Rally The Scout Report: The Intruder M50 Monthly Ride Map: Day Trip to the Lake ThunderCam Joker’s Wild

Resources

19 Event Listing CENTER - Pull-Out January 2011 Calendar 29 Texas’ BEST Bike Nights 36 Biker Friendly Listing

26 34

On the cover: Houston-area “Posse” members - Thunder Roads Texas sales and correspondent staff. From left to right - Back: Richard Vance, Laura Mae Benson, Flora Mamo, Jim Braddick, Kimmi Camenske, Amy Conklin, Bob Cooney, Bill Barnes; Front: Barry Claffey, Shelly Horan. Not to forget our many other staff that help us keep this magazine going! See facing page for our full staff - we thank all of them sincerely for all they do! Photo by Bob Cooney; Dylan Horan, assistant.

ADVERTISING SALES

OWNERS

Bob Cooney, CEO/Photography ThunderRoadsBob@yahoo.com Shelly “TX Dragonfly” Horan, Editor Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas.com

MONTHLY FEATURE WRITERS

“Crazy Al”; Mean Gene Kelton; Elm “Scout” Valle Thunder Roads Texas Bob Cooney & Shelly Horan State Edition Owners 4631 Cashel Glen Drive Houston, TX 77069 281.866.8149 ThunderRoadsTexas.com Thunder Publishing, LLC Toni & Brian Shearon National Founders 1528 Matlock Drive Chapmansboro, TN 37035 615.792.0040 ThunderRoadsMagazine.com Thunder Roads Magazine® is Trade Marked and may not be used in any way without consent from Thunder Publishing. Thunder Roads Magazine of Texas is published by Thunder Roads Texas. 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®, Thunder Publishing, or Thunder Roads Texas. Publisher does not promote the abuse of alcohol or other drugs. Ride & live responsibly. Thank you. Thunder Roads Magazine®, Thunder Publishing, and Thunder Roads Texas. Thunder Roads Texas is a wholly separate entity from Thunder Publishing LLC and Thunder Roads Magazine editions in other states. As such, content that runs in other states’ editions has no relation to the content in Thunder Roads Texas. Unless specifically stated, Thunder Roads Texas does not endorse, and is not responsible for, any content in other Thunder Roads Magazine editions.

Thunder Roads Texas Main Office 281.866.8149 ThunderRoadsBob@yahoo.com

Linda Morris - Houston tatewaci3322@msn.com 713.897.9109

M2 Motomedia - Statewide Reynolds Mansson M2Motomedia@gmail.com 210.259.9916

Angela Epperson - Waco/DFW AJoyEpperson@aol.com 254.493.3830

Bill “Shovelhead” Barnes - Houston ThunderRoadsBill@yahoo.com 321.960.6161

James Williams - San Antonio/Hill Country James@TexasMotorcycleAdventures.com 830.708.6198

Heather “Phoenix” Wright - Houston info@RedPhoenixMarketing.com 832.527.4318

Laura Mae Benson - Houston/Galveston Laura.ThunderRoadsMagazine@gmail.com 979.481.9642

Travis “Blydawg” Blythe - DFW Travis.Blythe@grandecom.net 940.435.8226 Bonnie Estes - Austin/Hill Country AngelWing1555@yahoo.com 512.673.6679

Manuel A. Valladares - DFW MValladares@saferis.net 214.245.6217 Amy Conklin - Houston TRM.Amy@gmail.com 832.498.6693

CORRESPONDENTS

Houston & Margaret Pruett - Victoria; Kitti Kluna - Houston; Ron Blansett - Houston; Linda Morris - Houston; Mark Appenzeller - D/FW; Joyce Siegert - D/FW; Ken Foster - D/FW; Brian “Native NYer” - D/FW; Travis “Blydawg” Blythe - D/FW; Dean Downey - Amarillo; Meghan Heller - Austin; Linda Nilsson - East Texas; Chantelle Sandberg - East Texas; George Darcy - Midland/ Odessa; Glenn “Gambler” - San Antonio; Kim Ferris; Pamella Jody - Houston; Sir Richard Vance - Corpus Christi; Randy McCamey - West Texas; Butch Hayes - Houston; Pete Martinez - Houston; Jason English - Piney Woods; Sean Kester - D/FW

Hope for the Coming Year Letter from the Editor

It’s 2011 and we embark on a new year full of hope; our fourth year publishing this great magazine! We keep harping that we had a great year in 2010 (I mean, we did!), so Bob thought you might like to know… how they hell did we end up with a magazine? Check out his cover article – The Posse’s Still Here… We’ve Just Grown! This year, we have high hopes of continuing to grow the magazine, reaching ALL Texas riders across the state and reaching out to travelers visiting the greatesst state in the Union. You can help – spread the word! If you’re in Facebook, be sure to let your friends know about our Facebook Page (Facebook.com/ThunderRoadsTexas), we’ll to the rest! We’ve already signed on to sponsor seven 2011 events: • South Texas Motorcycle Show * March 18-20 * San Antonio • Carts, Bikers & Babes Rally * April 7-10 * Lyons (Lake Somerville) • Steel Horse Round Up * April 9 * Cypress • Ride 4 Troops * May 15 * San Antonio • Summertime Bikes & Blues Festival * Labor Day Weekend * Freeport • The Texas Rally * September 8-11 * Lyons (Lake Somerville) • Oldest Town in Texas Rally * September 16-18 * Nacogdoches We’re working on more and will keep you posted as we sign on! January starts with two Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHTS, both in Houston: our newest one at Choppers on January 6 and “The Original” at Concert Pub North on January 20. If you’re in Houston at the time, you’ll find the biggest biker parties in town at a Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT! The 2011 Points Across Texas reader rides program is now ON! As soon as you deem the weather worthy - check out the NEW list, get on your bikes, and RIDE! And we’ve partnered with a map company, Motorcycle-Maps.us, to help sell and promote their new Texas riding maps. Check them out! As always, we’re open to suggestions from readers. We encourage you to let us know what you like about the magazine, what you don’t like (be constructive), and is there anything we don’t have that you’d like to see? AND don’t forget to send pictures for the Thunder Cam page and articles/pics to share with our readers. We are still looking for effective sales staff in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and correspondents from all over. Here’s hoping everyone has a very safe and prsperous 2011. Ride Safe & Ride with THUNDER! Shelly “TX Dragonfly” Horan Editor / Owner Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas.com

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January 2011

Find us, Befriend us, Follow us, Join us!

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January 2011

Page 7

2010 Christmas Toy Runs

ach year, thousands of leather clad dudes and dudettes climb aboard their steel steeds to collect and distribute toys to less fortunate children across the great state of Texas. Some are blessed with great weather, some brave harsh conditions, but all have hearts of gold. We are honored to present you with a sampling from two of those toys runs. I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again... bikers, as a community, have the biggest hearts I’ve ever seen!

31st Annual Eveline Rivers Toy Run Amarillo * November 21, 2010 From Dean Downey, TRT Correspondent With beautiful and warm weather, over 1,000 bikers participated in the 31st Annual Eveline Rivers Toy Run. The event kicked off at Tripp’s Harley Davidson where riders gathered. Bikes were loaded with a variety of toys to bring the joy of Christmas to children in need. Everyone who attended could either bring a toy or donate $10. This year, the run raised about $7,000 and three enclosed trailers full of toys, according to Jason Tripp, the event coordinator. Every year the first 40 participants who pay $100 are given a spot at the front of the parade and entered into a drawing. The winner this year received a 50” flat screen television, leather jacket,

and leather chaps donated by Tripp’s Harley Davidson; and a smoker grill and a .45 revolver pistol donated by Budweiser of Amarillo. After registration, everyone lined up for the

parade, guided by the Road Captains of the Amarillo HOG Chapter. The parade began at Tripp’s Harley Davidson with 866 bikes in the parade and concluded at the Courts of Amarillo. The AmarilloPolice Department and the Amarillo Emergency Services provided the escort for the parade and did an exceptional job blocking intersections and keeping everyone safe; a special thanks to all of them. Once everyone arrived at the final destination and placed their toy donations under the Christmas tree, they were treated to food donated by the Southwest Optimist Club of Amarillo, beer courtesy of Budweiser, and live entertainment from the Buster Bledsoe band. The Buster Bledsoe band is no stranger to this area or music and always does an excellent job in pleasing the crowd. Of course no event can be successful without sponsors and the volunteers. Everyone involved worked hard and deserves to be commended for their efforts. This year’s sponsors were Tripp’s Harley Davidson, who also provided the venue, Happy State Bank for the stage and sound, Budweiser of Amarillo, Southwest Optimist Club of Amarillo, Just Tees’n for the great looking shirts sold at the event, American Classifieds, Frost Air Conditioning and Heating, Alice Brooks Insurance, Bobby Duby Motors, Rabern Rental Center, Walmart, Amarillo Kidz Digest, Younique Media, Art and Design Clemmons, Elks USA Amarillo Lodge 923, The Buster Bledsoe band, and LPL Financial. Thanks to all those who participated and helped to make a brighter Christmas to all those in need this year, proving once again that underneath all that leather lies a sincere, caring, and giving heart. Until next year, RIDE FREE AND SAFE ALWAYS.

5th Annal Buddy Oney Toy Run Rockdale * December 4, 2010 From Charles Starr We would like to thank everyone that helped in any way with the 5th Annual Buddy Oney Toy Run. Whether you came by and gave a toy, made donation, or made the day with us. It was a huge success with our best turnout for a toy run yet. We had 85 bikes register and several join in with us throughout the day. We raised a little over $6,000 and after t-shirts were paid for we split the difference of $4,857.00 equally to the Milam County CPS Board and the Rockdale Christmas Roundup (purchased toys for the event). This year we changed the way we distributed the money to help cover more of the Milam County needy children and are looking at more changes in the future. We also want to send a special THANK YOU to all the sponsors that helped us put this on: Brady’s Pest Control & Perry and Perry Builders and their cookers for the great food they prepared, The Ranch (Rockdale), Brushy Creek (Thorndale), Pancho and Lefty’s (Hare), Cliff’s Tavern (Rockdale), Charlie’s Bar (Lexington), Nat’s (Milano), and especially the Bad To The Bone Riders for keeping these events going no matter what. When this year’s proceeds are added to the past three years from The “Buddy Oney” Toy Run we have raised a little over $26,000. Now that is some BIG HEARTED BIKERS, helping our county’s less fortunate families and needy children. With that being said THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT.!

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January 2011

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Protect Your Rights - Get Involved By Jason English, TRT Correspondent

BATE started in the 70’s in Texas. It was reorganized in 1990 as Texas ABATE Confederation, Inc. ABATE is a national non-profit motorcycle rights organization that is dedicated to freedom of the road for all motorcyclists, promotes rider education for all motorcycle riders, motorcycle awareness for all automobile drivers, and fights discriminatory legislation aimed towards the motorcycling community. Additionally, many ABATE chapters are also involved in charitable efforts across the nation. There are currently six chapters in Texas: Arlington, Texoma, Denton, Golden Triangle, North East Texas (NET) and East Texas Chapter 11, of which I am a member. Chapter 11 consists of members from Jacksonville and

TMRA2.org

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

surrounding areas. Recently our chapter was involved in getting a share the road sign placed in our community. At the presentation were members Brenda Daniels, Coordinator; Bernie Hutson., Chaplin; his wife Tammie; and George Stover, among others. Our chapter has various benefit rallies to help out downed riders and their families and to raise funds for various charities. In September 2010 was the Annual J.B. Berry Memorial Rally was an event that raised funds to help out the family of J.B. Berry who sadly lost his life in a motorcycle accident. He was a long time member of ABATE and many of his friends and family are still involved with the organization today.

TexasABATE.com

Another goal of the organization is to educate everyone on motorcycle safety and its importance. With the help of our members and others, hopefully we can make motorcycle riding safer and more enjoyable for everyone. Chapter 11 meetings are held the third Sunday of each month at Lupe’s Restaurant in Jacksonville. Everyone is welcome to attend. By supporting this and other motorcycle rights organizations we can preserve the rights of motorcyclists and the freedom of the road. Ride Safe and Ride Free.

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COCTX.org

January 2011

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Points Across Texas Snapshots

Snapshots

2011 Points Across Texas™ Reader Rides Program

he inaugural year was phenomenal! Hundreds of booklets distributed, thousands of pictures submitted, and hundreds of patches sent to riders embracing this new reader rides program! The resounding comment we received: “It gives us a reason to ride”. So often, we get on our steel steeds, look at each other and say, “where to?” This reader rides program provides plenty of “wheres” to explore. It’s simple and easy to accomplish your Points Across Texas™ patch!

Group Pictures:

NOTE: Destinations have changed for 2011!

• We encouage and welcome group pictures! A list of participating riders’ full names and contact information (phone and/or email) must be included with the picture(s). • Participating groups of 10 or more, achieving the patch requirement, receive a commemorative Certificate of Achievement, suitable for framing. Each rider listed in the qualified set of pictures is entered separately for the prize drawing.

2011 Rules (the fine print):

Submitting pictures:

• The program runs January 1, 2011 to December 2011. • The 2010 destination list is not valid after December 31, 2010. • Riders must visit 10 qualified destination points during the calendar year 2011. There are two levels of qualified destination points: Gold Destinations – Worth two destination points Silver Destinations – Worth one destination point • Send pictures proving you were there. • Pictures must be taken during the program dates (above). • Whenever possible, include a recent copy of Thunder Roads Texas. HINT: This will offer a better chance your picture is used in the Snapshots from Points Across Texas™ monthly feature. • The qualified destination point must be easily identified in the picture. A sign or known landmark must be included in the picture. • You and/or your bike must be in the picture. • Pictures can be submitted in pieces and we’ll keep track of your points for you. • Only one picture per location is eligible, even if it falls in more than one category. • Pictures must be received by Thunder Roads Texas by November 1, 2011 to be included in the prize drawing. However, eligible pictures received by December 31, 2011 will still receive the program patch. Winners will be notified via email and/or phone and announced in the December 2011 issue. • By submitting pictures for this program, persons in the pictures understand they authorize Thunder Roads Texas to use the picture in any manner they choose, including print, online communications, and marketing materials. • Participation in the program is FREE and is done so at participants’ own risk and expense. There is no requirement to enter a destination that requires a fee. Photos taken at outside gates are acceptable. • Must be 18 years or older to enter the prize drawing. There is no age limit to earn the patch.

• Email to PAT@thunderroadstexas.com. • Pictures must be sent as attachments to the email; not embedded in the email or document. • In the email, identify who is in the picture and the destination point(s). • Mail to: 4631 Cashel Glen Dr, Houston, TX 77069 • Must include your phone number for drawing notification in case you win.

What do riders get for these efforts? • For the first 10 eligible pictures, receives a 2011 Points Across Texas™ program patch and the rider’s name will be entered into a drawing for prizes. • For each additional 10 eligible pictures, the rider will receive an additional prize drawing entry. • Prizes are yet to be determined, but will include at least one weekend cabin stay at Koyote Ranch Resort in the Texas Hill Country (valued at $340). Page 10

January 2011

2011 Destination List: Gold Destination Points – Each worth 2 points D’Rose Inn & Cabins 527 US 83 Leakey, TX 830.232.5246 DRoseInn.com Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop 657 West RR 337 Leakey, TX 830.232.6629 FrioCanyonMotorcycleStop.biz BentRimGrill.com Frisco Custom Cycles 6427 West Main Street Frisco, TX 75034-3243 (214) 387-0650 FriscoCustomCycles.com Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop & Bent Rim Grill 657 West RR 337 1/2 mile West of Highway 83 Leakey, TX 78873 FrioCanyonMotorcycleStop.biz BentRimGrill.com Goe Harley-Davidson 1350 South Highway 288-B Angleton, TX 77515 979.849.3681 or 281.393.1000 GoeHarley-Davidson.com Goe Kawasaki 1350A South Highway 288B Angleton, TX 77515 979.849.3681 GoeKawasaki.com

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Tomasso’s Italian Grill & Seafood Market 507 North Goron Street Alvin, TX 77511s 281.331.6262 TomassosItalianGrill.com Silver Destinations – each worth 1 point • Replacing the popular (and plentiful) County Courthouses and keeping with Texas heritage as a theme – all destinations listed in the Texas Heritage Trails brochures offered by the Texas Historical Commission. Visit our website for more a full listing and links to the brochures. • All jailhouses listed the “Texas Jail List” on TexasEscapes.com under Texas Architecture: • Texas Welcome Sign at any state border (limit one per rider). • “Capitals” of Texas (see list on our website). This was so popular in 2010, we couldn’t resist keeping them on for 2011. • A picture of you in a Thunder Roads Texas T-shirt or standing with someone in a Thunder Roads Texas T-shirt. (Limit one per rider.) • A picture of you/or your bike next to a Thunder Roads Texas banner or sign. (Limit one per rider.) • A picture of you/or your bike next to a Thunder Roads Texas sponsored event sign. (Limit one per rider.) Visit our website for a list of current sponsored events. Get updates to the program: • Subscribe to our FREE weekly Web-zine email. We do not share our email list with ANYONE and we promise not to SPAM you. • Pick up you FREE copy of Thunder Roads Texas motorcycle magazine at one of more than 200 distribution locations throughout Texas.

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

• Download Thunder Roads Texas motorcycle magazine from our website. The current issue, as well as the past full year are available for free download. • Subscribe to Thunder Roads Texas motorcycle magazine, not missing an issue with the magazine mailed directly to your home or business. Visit our website to subscribe with PayPal or complete the subscription form found in every issue of Thunder Roads Texas. • We encourage rider input. If you find a Texas location (of general or historical interest) you feel should be included as a destination or if you’ve visited one of the destination points and there is no picture opportunity, let us know! Questions, comments, or suggestions: thunderroadstexas.com or 281.866.8149.

shelly@

 Spots are still open for sponsors and business listings on the destination list. Starting at only $99/year. Contact Shelly@thunderroadstexas.com for more information.

January 2011

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By “Crazy” Al #55

PigTrails

Safety First!

n my writings I try to always show the humor side of the biker lifestyle. It’s great being a biker and being a part of this rare breed of people. But I also write at the end of each of my columns that the adventure of riding is to ride another day. This is a powerful statement. To be perfectly honest I think we are all aware that it only takes a second for it all to be over. I know this because in 1990 I was involved in a near fatal motorcycle crash. It only took a second. A tiny rock barely big enough to see made my throttle stick wide open. Before I knew what happened I was in a Care Flight Helicopter struggling for my life. I never thought I would be back on a motorcycle ever! I could not stay away. I knew that my life would not be complete without a motorcycle in my life. I fully realize every minute of every day that I get to straddle a bike and enjoy the great open road that it could all end in the blink of an eye. So I decided to do something about it. I now call it the Rocky effect. I am never going down! Ever! My wife tells me that I am way too confident. I feel I am not nearly confident enough. If you do not feel that you are a very good rider then you need to practice what it is that you are not comfortable with. I truly believe that most motorcycle accidents can be avoided purely by the awareness, confidence, and skill of the person who is riding the motorcycle. This is not to say that crazy things don’t happen.

when it comes to speed! I actually have to make plans to pass an 18 wheeler! I am going to take this from the top! Starting with the safety hazards I think are the worst when it comes to the dangers of motorcycling. GRAVEL! This stuff is a bike killer. That’s why it is important to always be looking at the surfaces of the concrete when it comes to intersections and corners. First thing is go into the gravel straight. Try not to lean into a corner when you see gravel. Slow down! Straighten up and ride through the gravel. When you know you are clear of the gravel then you can lean it over and make the corner. Also avoid the front brakes at all cost. You want the rear tire to do a little sliding around before the front. And last be sure and have a hand signal for gravel. This way you can warn your riding partners before they reach the hazard. Exit Strategy! Even if you are just going for a ride to the store to get milk it is important for you to be aware of what is going on around you. I call this the Exit Strategy. Whether it is a car coming to a stop on a street ahead of you or a stray dog walking down the road in front of you; if you see anything that remotely looks like it may be a hazard you need to look around you. Find every possible way you can get yourself out of trouble safely. Have a plan before the panic. You never know what the other people or scrubs or animals are going to do when they are not paying

attention to you. And we all know what they normally say when the cages cause an accident! I didn’t even see you! The most important thing about having your exit strategy is to never be relaxed on your ride! There is a time and a place for that! It’s sad to say that you cannot relax when you are riding your motorcycle but the bigger picture is that it could save your life some day! Even if you’re far out in the country on some awesome back road you never know when you might have your first encounter with a deer! Relax when you are sitting in your garage having a cold beer and admiring your motorcycle! There are hundreds of ways and tactics we have in our arsenal to keep our self safe on the roads. None of them are at the top or the bottom of the list. Everything from always ride staggered to being sure you have protective gear. When I ride I like to feel that I am on top of my game: elbows out. feet in the right position, fully aware of what is going on around me. And last but not least! Never take your eye off the road for more than a second! The two second rule is not true. You’re just asking for trouble! As I have always said the adventure of riding is to ride another day! Happy New Year!

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Two years ago I went down when I ran through a puddle of transmission fluid and touched my front brake. Bam, smack, crash! The reason I went down was not the fluid on the road. The reason I went down was that I was watching the light to see if it was going to turn green instead of keeping my I eye on the pavement when I knew that I was going to be applying the brakes! Never assume anything! In my column this month I would like to share some of my tips for safety. These are only my tips and opinions. Certainly not set in stone nor are they methods approved by the Department of Public Safety. Shelly might even disagree with at least one of these! Like always travel 20 miles over the speed limit so that you are always way ahead of those bastards in the cages! I’m just kidding! I personally drive the speed limit for a few reasons. First and foremost a speeding ticket now costs around $250! Holy crap I could have bought a new tire with that much money. I have also learned that the thrill of speed is not something that is very satisfying on a big cruiser. I love my Harley but it wouldn’t scare the crap out of an old lady

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January 2011

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January 2011

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How to Become a World Class Pinstriper in 3 Easy Steps By Randy “Harley Doc” McCamey, Correspondent

1. Purchase samples of t he highest qualit y automotive paint specifically formulat ed for pinstripe use in every color imaginable. 2. Pick up a handful of t he best Russian Sable hair brushes you can find and trim t hem to fit your st yle. 3. Get 22 years of experience at t he craft and t hen ...

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January 2011

mmm, step number 3 seems to be the most challenging, wouldn’t you say? Anyone can buy the materials, anybody can read the books, but not just anybody can do the work. Experience and doing the work is what sets Tex McDorman apart from the competition and with that experience comes an impressive resume of paint and stripes on all manner of cars, trucks, and bikes. Tex does a significant amount of work on NASCAR cars and the driver’s helmets. His work has been featured in various magazines including the April 2009 issue of American Bagger. He makes it to a lot of rally’s each year, big and small, including Sturgis and the Lone Star Rally in Galveston. I notice that Tex uses his phone a lot as he works. “I use my phone these days rather than huge catalogs and reference books. Clients can send me sample pictures so I can see what they are thinking or I can send them pictures to give them some ideas of what I can do.” Tex continues by saying, “The camera on the phone also helps give me something to look at as a reference when I’m trying to make a symmetric pattern on both sides of a bike.” So, how does he do it? How has Tex become the name in pinstriping? Tex was born and raised in Brownwood, Texas. Always interested in art and drawing, Tex nurtured his creativity and after a stint in the U. S. Navy, he went into the paint and penstriping business full-time. A self-taught master, now with over 22 years experience, Tex says, “I love to stripe bikes and I work to make every bike look different. I work with the owner to make his or her bike a reflection of the personality that is unique to that individual.”

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As we talked at the 2010 Lone Star Rally, bikes are revving up around the booth and on the street with pipes blaring loud enough to make normal conversation a struggle. Tex easily stripes a bike as we talk and I ask how he keeps such a steady hand in the midst of so much noise and so many people. “Patience and practice”, he says. “Noise and distractions can be challenging but you learn to adapt. I think what sets me apart is that I can deal with the distractions, have a relaxed conversation with my clients, and stripe their bikes at the same time.” I agree. Conversation comes naturally to Tex and many people, myself included, forget that he is actually striping their bikes while they talk. Before they know it, their bike is done and they are ready to go. Tex McDorman, a class act and a world class talent.

To see more of Tex’s work, go to www.TexEFX.com

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Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

January 2011

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By Elm “Scout” Valle

The Scout Report

The Intruder M50

wanted to start the New Years with an article about a motorcycle hailing all the way across from London, UK. I love the comfort and stability of cruisers but I also love the speed and look of sport bikes. Over the years I have been searching for that perfect blend that would fit into the “Sports Cruiser” class. One day, while surfing motorcycle forums, I found exactly what I was looking for. It was a customized Intruder M800 or otherwise known more popularly as the Suzuki M50 Boulevard in the United States. Andrius Abariunas from London created a perfect blend of that power cruiser look and sport bike essence. Unfortunately, since the bike is thousands of miles away, I could not actually perform a real review but instead I decided to conduct an interview with Andrius. Q: Tell me a little about yourself. [I was] born in Lithuanian but have been living in London for 10 years now. I used to work in men’s fashion industry, but a few years ago started my own marketing and consulting business. I have always admired bikes and cars, but never had a motorcycle until four years ago. I saw a little Suzuki VL125, which looked like a real bike and did not need a license. So finally I bought it. My knowledge about technical part of the bike was embarrassing enough. I did not even know I need to lubricate the chain - until almost a year after I bought it. Once I learned the basics, I have when started looking into bigger bikes and fell in love with the M50. I finally, passed my full license and two months after I traveled half of Europe on the motorcycle. Q: What was the inspiration for your M50 custom build?

Here is a full list of my modifications: • • • • •

It was a childish need to break things apart and try to put them together again. And probably the illusion that I can make it better!!

• • • •

Q: How exactly did you do the customization?

• •

It all started one month after I bought the bike. The exhaust was not cool enough, so I bought HH Double Walls. Then I thought the seats need to be changed, so I bought aftermarket seat. In the Summer of 2009 my girlfriend and I decided to go for a bike trip across Europe. Because my bike was lowered, the bloody exhaust was scrapping on the corners of the narrow mountain roads. When we arrived in Italy, I was introduced to someone who had an iron workshop and is a bike enthusiast. He offered to fix my exhausts - after half a day in his workshop cutting and welding - my exhaust was shorter. This made the bike looked sexier and it had great sound! That same evening I thought to myself that I can improvise my bike and at the same time increase handling, comfort, looks, and make this bike more personal. Once I was home from the trip, I had discussion with my uncle [an engineer] about my ideas and actually got my first grinder from him for this build! I wanted the bike to be lean and light, easy to handle. I got it back to stock height and started looking how to get gravity centre lower by other means. I also decided to go for “naked” mod for the air filter and started looking for new headlight. I used the twin headlights by Buell.

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January 2011

Exhaust by Highway Flat Track Twin headlights by Buell Rear tire hugger is from an Aprilia RSV1000. Handlebars are by Highway Hawk Drag bar, grips, and mirrors Front Indicators & Tail Light - Aftermarket Street-fighter LED lights Rear Indicators - Kuryakyn Late Style Self-Custom Rear Fenders and Brackets Bully fuel controller installed. Tri-level rear suspension drop (0; 1” or 2” lower ) installed Highway Hawk front foot pegs Kuryakyn Wing shaped

All the work on the bike starting with design and putting it together - I did myself; except from welding and powder coating. The biggest support I had from my girlfriend who had to listen to my bike stories every single day for oneand-a-half years. So far the build well exceeds $3,000 excluding the cost of the bike. Q: Do you get a lot of compliments and looks while riding? Yes! A lot – I get thumbs up to “nice bike” to some seriously funny reactions. The other day I had someone following me and every single red light stopping besides me from either side and looking; after some time I heard the guy sat: “F*ck it’s a Suzuki! Nice! Is it a new model? Q: I see you are trying to sell it? It was quite a painful decision to sell it. It’s a wonderful machine! We’ve been through so much with it. Last year with my girlfriend we traveled almost 4,000 miles over the Europe on this bike. I love going long distances, but over the time riding and working on it I finally realized what the true nature of this bike is. This machine is awesome on mountains and countryside twists. You can also have great

fun on motorways, but for the miles I decided that I need proper sports touring bike. After doing my research I am taken by BMW R1200R, maybe an S. Actually I almost bought BMW R80 last year for Cafe Racer project, but that did not happen. So I would love for this M50 to become a bridge for the new project. I already have sketches and plans to build a new bike using a BMW as a base. It’s so addictive! Selling the M50 will help me fund the new bike project and hopefully I can build another nice bike Q: Any last thought for our readers? My wish was to have great looking machine, improve controls and comfort. I think I achieved all of the goals and maybe even exceeded my own (and some others) expectations. It will be sad to see it go especially now after all the fun I had working on it and traveling. I hope it’s going to find a nice new home! It is an awesome bike for everyday use, reliable, comfortable and appears to be good looking. This bike has inspired me to look for the new and to take a challenge, use the imagination and work on realization of it. Instead of looking how to load the bike with production aftermarket parts I have learned how to reuse the stock parts, how to adapt and this was probably my favorite part of working on the bike. I never liked using prefabricated aftermarket parts anyway for many various reasons. I met so many interesting and inspiring people through this bike. For my new build I am planning to write the blog with a full insight into joy and troubles amateur/ enthusiast bike builder can come across and hopefully to gather a community of people alike. Conclusion: Andrius’ Intruder M800 is truly a unique piece of work that I find very interesting. The fact that he took a vision and made into reality with very little initial skill was masterfully done. Who knows, maybe he will start the next Orange County Choppers (OCC)! So as always, ride safely and “See you on the high ground!”

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Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

January 2011

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EVENTS Page 18

January 2011

ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Event Listing

The MOST comprehensive motorcycle event listing published in the State of Texas!

JANUARY

Our monthly (third Thursday) biker party with a few hundred of our closest friends! Held at Concert Pub North (2470 FM 1960 West, Houston, 77069. Co-hosted by Outlaw Dave. Live music, vendors, stage games, door prizes, and MORE! LARGE reserved motorcycle-only parking, with plenty of cage parking, too. Rain or shine… the BEST and longest continually held bike night in Houston! Mathew Dominguez Memorial Ride 210.559.3054; 210.336.8717 Boerne Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio

“The Original” Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT ThunderRoadsTexas.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Legislative Day TMRA2.org Austin Region: Hill Country Metro: Austin

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

St. Valentines Day Massacre MassacreRally.com Boerne Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio Monster Energy Supercross SupercrossOnline.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

FUTURE

March 3-15 Thunder in the Tropics Cruise ThunderInTheTropics.com NOTE: Due to issues beyond our control, this cruise has been canceled. If you made reservations, please call ETA (www.cruise-eta.com/themecruises.htm; 615.356.0702) for information about a refund or to book a different cruise. We apologtize for any inconvenience. March 4-13 Daytona Bike Week DaytonaBikeWeek.com Daytona, FL March 18-20 South Texas Motorcycle Show TXBikeShow.com San Antonio Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio More stunts, a tattoo expo, contests and special services are added to the already wildly successful kick-off to the 2011 riding season. Swap meet by Texas Scooter Times (TexasScooterTimes.com; 254.687.9066). Bring your bike into the special services section to trick out your bike. Tickets are only $15 for the weekend; Kids 15 and under FREE. Visit the website for a coupon. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas Motorcycle Magazine. March 30-April 3 Arizona Bike Week AZBikeWeek.com Scottsdale, AZ

Find us, Befriend us, Follow us, Join us!

April 7-10 Carts, Bikers & Babes Rally CartsBikersAndBabesRally.com Somerville Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station “Let Out Your Bad!” at Big Creek Park & Marina. Last year was so successful Damon Dave is doing it again! A Cart & Bike Rally, plus some babes! Live music by Blues Crew, Blues Brothers (tribute), national acts for Friday and Santa headliners: Black Oak Arkansas and Blackfoot. Also: vendors, camping, cart & bike contests and parades, biker games, fun runs, and more – truly something for everyone! Sites & tickets on sale now. RV sites will go fast. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas Motorcycle Magazine! April 8-10 TMRA State Rally TMRA.org Comanche Region: Prairies & Lakes May 12-14 Texas State HOG Rally TXStateHOGRally.com Beaumont Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Beaumont May 14 5th Annual Ride for Troops SARide4Troops.org San Antonio Region: South Texas Metro: San Antonio 2010 Fall ride raised over $23,000 going to the Fisher House at the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio. Join hundreds of bikers for this escorted ride. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas Motorcycle Magazine!

9th Chopper Show & Swap Meet TexasScooter.com Dallas Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Sdallas/Fort Worth Judged competition for manufacturer built, custom shop built, and home built choppers. 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place trophies, plus People’s Choice Award. Entry included with admission. Get your first bargains of 2011. Last year’s show was sold out to vendors… reserve your space now. Located in the Longhorn Ballroom in Dallas (corner of Riverfront & Corinth). Show hours 11am-5:30pm. Admission: $8 adults, $5 military with ID and children 5-14, free for under 5 years. 254.687.9066.

FEBRUARY

11-13

Choppers hosts a Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT ChoppersSportsBar.com Spring Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston First Thursday every month at Choppers (18419 Kuykendahl, Spring, 77379). Built by bikers, for bikers, this large new venue in NW Houston offers plenty of bike parking with cameras on the parking area, live bands, $1.50 domestic draft, $1 jello shots, door prizes, vendors, and more.. Rain or shine, we party like bikers anyway!

7th Annual Motorcycle Swap Meet 817-275-6101 Arlington Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

May 19-22 The Aspen Cash Rally MotorcycleRally.com Ruidoso, NM May 13-21 Myrtle Beach Bike Week MyrtleBeachBikeWeek.com Myrtle Beach, SC June 9-12 Republic of Texas (ROT) Biker Rally ROTRally.com Austin Region: Hill Country Metro: Austin

Continued on Page 23... January 2011

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EVENTS

Thunder Roads Texas does not guarantee the accuracy of the information provided and cannot be held liable. Things change, there may be typos, and weather happens. So before you climb on your steed and ride to one of these events, contact the organizers and verify the latest information. Remember, all events listed in Thunder Roads Texas qualify for the Points Across Texas™ reader rides program! Just have to prove where you are, so find a sign and send a pic. For updates with events that don’t make print, two weeks worth of events provided every week to your email inbox - subscribe to our FREE Web-zine. Visit us online at http://ThunderRoadsTexas.com. NOTE: All car shows listd promote “motorcycles welcome” or at least one motorcycle category.

14 23

1 8

Wednesday

February 2011

Tuesday

December 2010

Monday

January 2011 Thursday

Friday 1

Saturday 2

Sunday

1724

Legislative Day Austin

20 “The Original” Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT Concert Pub North Houston

Choppers hosts a Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT Houston

8 9th Annual Shopper Show & Swap Meet Dallas

Calendar Sponsored by Walker Texas Lawyer * 713.552.1117 * WalkerTexasLawyer.com

Multiple-day events appear on the first day of event. For details on these and other events, see our Event Listing, Page 19.

EVENTS Page 22

January 2011

ThunderRoadsTexas.com

EvenT Listing June 11-19 Laconia Motorcycle Week LaconiaMCWeek.com Laconia, NH June 20 International Ride to Work Day RideToWork.org July 14-17 Bikers Adult Rally BikersAdultRally.com Alvarado Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth August 8-14 70th Annual Sturgis Bike Week Sturgis.com Sturgis, SD

September 8-10 Hot Springs Rally TheHotSpringsRally.com Hot Springs, AR September 8-11 The Texas Rally TheTexasRally.com Lyons (Lake Somerville) Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station It’s a Luau and Biker Bash at Big Creek Park & Marina! Free Luau dinner Saturday night. Great live entertainment, biker games, bike contests, feasts, parades, and CASH giveaways! Proceeds benefit the Texas Biker Relief Organization (T-Bro). The Zoo (RV camping) sells out quickly – better reserve today! Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas Motorcycle Magazine! September 14-18 The Golden Aspen Rally MotorcycleRally.com Ruidoso, NM

September 16-18 The Oldest Town in Texas (OTT) Rally OTTRally.com Nacogdoches Region: Piney Woods It’ll be another great year in the East Texas Piney Woods and historic Nacogdoches! Plans are underway for live music, stunt exhibitions, vendors, camping, bike show, and loads of fun! Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas Motorcycle Magazine! September 28-October 1 Bikes, Blues & BBQ BikesBluesandBBQ.org Fayetteville, AR September 28-October 2 Myrtle Beach Fall Rally MyrtleBeachBikeWeek.com Myrtle Beach, SC October 7-9 Boo Benefit BooBenefit.org Jefferson Region: Piney Woods October 13-16 Biketoberfest Biketoberfest.com Daytona, FL November 3-6 Lone Star Motorcycle Rally LoneStarRally.com Galveston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Texas Pride Barbeque Every Thursday 2980 E. Loop 1604 Adkins, TX 78101 Phone: 210-649-3730 TexasPrideBBQ.net A real Texas barbeque joint with a REAL bike night. Live music, no cover, “Class Rock” beer specials, drive through pavilion, and good Texas BBQ. Just 20 minutes East of San Antonio. Thunder Roads Texas @ Concert Pub North (formerly Texas Rock Tavern) 3rd Thursday 2470 FM 1960 W Houston, TX 77068 Phone: 281.866.8149 ThunderRoadsTexas.com Join the Thunder Roads Texas team at Texas Rock Tavern for live music, no cover, cheap drinks, good food, door prizes, and more! Sponsored by Eagle Cycles on Jones Road. Co-hosted by Outlaw Dave and Bryan “the Babe Wrangler” partying with the team! Rain or shine, the BIGGEST biker party in Houston! “Another” Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT @ Choppers 1st Thursday At request, we expand our biker party to include a new location on the first Thursday of every month – Choppers. Built by bikers, for bikers, this large new venue in NW Houston offers plenty of bike parking with cameras on the parking area, live bands, drink specials and more. All you’ve come to expect from our monthly biker party extended to add a location and another day of the month. Rain or shine, we party like bikers anyway!

Find us, Befriend us, Follow us, Join us!

Want your bike night listed here? Starting at only $25/month. Call 281.866.8149 for more information.

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

January 2011

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EVENTS

September 2-4 Summertime Bikes & Blues Festival FreeportBluesFestival.com Freeport Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston It’s all about the BLUES! Live blues music all weekend long, brought to you by the VFW Post 4341 and Freeport Main Street. Raffle with grand prize of a 2011 Harley Softail Heritage Classic. Tickets are on sale NOW (visit the website for more information). Bike wash, bike games, food, vendors, giveaways, and new this year, a Swap Meet by Texas Scooter Times (to be a vendor, visit TexasScooterTimes.com or call 254.687.9066) and a classic car show. More fun for everyone. Great for families. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas Motorcycle Magazine.

CONTINUED...

Day Trip to the Lake This month, we offer one of our riding group’s favorite day rides to Papa’s on the Lake. riding from Tomball (Northwest of Houston) to Conroe on some very nice sweeping, tree-covered roads. Much of this ride is residential and some of the corners are very tight, so watch your speeds and enjoy the ride! • From Tomball, take Main Street (FM 2920), heading East. • Go left on Huffsmith-Khorville (FM 2978), heading North.

MAP

• Stay on FM 2978, crossing FM 1488, where the road becomes Egypt Community Road. • About one mile up, there is a fork in the road - go left, onto Honea Egypt Road. • Continue about 7 miles to FM 2854, take a right.

RIDE

• Travel a short distance (less than one mile) to first road on the left, McCabe, and go left. • This road will take you up to Highway 105, crossing it to reach Pappa’s on the Lake. We enjoy the ride to and live music at Papa’s.

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Some information above was provided by MotorcycleRoads.US. You can find a link on our website to this great mapping resource. Page 24

January 2011

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January 2011

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at East Texas Choppers

By Sean “Wolf Rider”” Kester, Correspondent made our way to Terrell for the Thunder Roads Bike Night at East Texas Choppers. Papa and Nana jumped on their Goldwing Trike and joined us. I think that thing has a heater, but I’m not sure. Papa had added a bunch more lights that nicely complimented his existing Ring of Fire lights in the wheels. Ron “Scrapes” and Sandy also met us at the house and we rolled out at about 7pm.

hat a great night to ride! I love leather weather; and a clear night in the 40’s is just perfect to me. No apologies to PETA; I’m glad we have lots of cows here in The Lone Star State. Their hides make great chaps, jackets, vests and gloves. My oh-so-muchbetter-half (Misti) loves to ride with me at night, but likes it a little warmer. Even if it’s cold though, she’ll throw on some layers and her leathers and ride without complaint. I’m getting her some of that fancy electric heated gear for Christmas (please don’t tell her). So on a beautiful November Texas evening, we took off out of Fate and

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January 2011

From our side of Northeast Texas area (around Rockwall), it’s a straight shot south from I-30 on TX 205 to get to Terrell. But there’s always a better way on the bikes and since we were stopping on the way to pick up another couple (Craig “Big Hawg” and Sherri), we took the alternate route. FM 548 also runs south from I-30 in Royse City. 548 is a bit more ‘country’ and the two-lane blacktop has nice sweeping curves. Just follow the road, cruise through the light at TX 276 and eventually you’ll run into a ‘T’ intersection and stop sign at 205. You’ll have missed a few lights and some Rockwall traffic, so hang the left and continue on towards US 80 in Terrell. Where 205 meets Highway 80, make a left and East Texas Choppers is just one mile down on your right. From Rockwall, the ride is about 25 minutes. Stay tuned to the end and I’ll tell you a nice way back to 205.

Our group of eight on four bikes arrived at ETC at just a bit after 8:00 p.m. and I was surprised that the band wasn’t set up outside. Seriously, it was only 45 degrees or so and cows had died to keep me warm. What’s the big deal? It turns out that it’s not so easy to jam on the six string with cold fingers and playing in gloves is just awkward. So we went inside with the rest of the crowd. This is a new Bike Night for the area and it will take some time to get itself really established. There were only about 50 people in attendance and most arrived in cages. Besides our four bikes, there were maybe ten more who understood that life is not lived at 72 degrees. But the 50 there were a good crowd and they were having a good time! We ran into our friends Shelly and Patty there and met several new people. Mike’s Grubbs was out there and we got some great info from him about the Lone Star Rally that was held last week in Galveston. We’re making plans to attend that one this November. East Texas Choppers’ restaurant & bar is Softtails. They have a full bar and serve a pretty good menu of food. The jalapeno poppers are off the chain and the serving size was plenty generous for our group. I always go for the double cheese burger with jalapenos – it’s not on the menu, but just ask for it; the cook will take care of you. Darn

ThunderRoadsTexas.com

good burger. We also got a couple baskets of chicken strips. Rhonda was working the bar tonight and she took good care of everyone.

Strat, and the rest is just filler. I can even do without vocals when I get lost in some great cords.

I got a new patch! “Where the hell is my medication?” was added to my vest, continuing one of my themes for my dys-FUN-ctional life. B&B Self-Expressions is now set up and sewing patches on site. Bob & Brenda Nelson had a great selection – I had trouble choosing – and the prices are quite fair. They still need to get a machine to sew for pockets, but can handle all your normal needs. They’ll even make custom patches for you. Back in the bar, the blues were playing and playing well. I’d heard it was going to be Tommy Katona tonight and was really looking forward to hearing him jam again. I love me some blues and Tommy can really shred that Fender. I was expecting him to have the band with him, but was thankful that it was just him and another guitar man. Bass is fine, drums are okay, keyboards are…well, let’s just say I live for that Fender

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

The time came for us to put the leathers back on and roll out. You have to take a right turn out of the

parking lot to get on the divided highway. Most people that are trying to connect to 205 double back via the u-turn about a quarter mile down. The back way I promised to tell you about is a nicer ride (no lights, no traffic, and some curves). One mile down you can pick up FM 1392 on your right. It winds around and meets 205. Hang a left and you’ll make it back to Rockwall and I-30. At this time, East Texas Choppers has halted the Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT, but may pick them back up when riding weather is back upon us. This is a very good location (one of my favorite hangouts), and some great musicians frequent the joint in Terrell. The ride out there is nice – it’s always nice to get a bit outside of the Dallas MetroMess. And we always run into friends at East Texas Choppers. Keep checking Thunder Roads Texas for news of restarting the BIKE NIGHT – and let East Texas Choppers know you want it back sooner rather than later!

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The Posse’s Still Here... We’ve Just Grown By Bob Cooney, CEO/Owner Thunder Roads Texas

The Posse’s Still Here

t all started in October of 2007, sitting at Stubbs Harley-Davidson in Houston waiting on service for my 2006 Fat Boy. My friend, Shelly, accompanied me on the trip in case we needed a car; the day’s forecast called for rain. Shelly is an avid reader. At the time, we were doing some work together in my photography studio, a passion that I brought with me from California. While waiting, Shelly started reading and I swear she read every stitch of paper in the place. Picking up a magazine and thumbing through, she started reading me the jokes out loud. We sat there laughing our asses off. Thumbing further through, she came across a full page ad stating “Do you have the entrepreneurial spirit?” Shelly showed it me, thinking they may be looking for writers. I thought they were probably looking for sales – hence the “entrepreneurial spirit”. She agreed, but I’m bored, so I pick up my phone and dial the number. The number was in Dallas and belonged to a business agent, specializing in helping owners find buyers for their businesses. Shelly always stops me at this point in the story to state that she would have hung up the phone as soon as the agent said “the magazine’s for sale”. Still bored, I decided to at least hear the guy out. Heck, we had been waiting for quite a while and I was looking for something to do. After the sales “schpiel”, I continued to talk with him. I’m not quite sure why… did I say I was bored? Shelly had listened to only part of the conversation, but gone back to reading. At the time, both of us were looking for a new business opportunity so when I described what they had to offer, it sounded interesting to both of us. A little background might be good here. I’ve been a self-employed business owner for the last 25+ years. Before that, I made my way to the top of the marketing department in an international company specializing in gas detection equipment for the oil industry. It was this job that brought me to Houston years ago for a brief stay before moving on to California. I also founded a computer business and became a recognized glamour photographer in Northern California. But I always knew Texas is where I wanted to be and I got back here as soon as I could. After starting her college years at Texas A&M University in College Station, Shelly earned her marketing degree with a minor in public relations at the University of St. Thomas in Houston. She quickly secured a business development job in the local credit union industry, making her way to the top as a vice president of marketing and business development. From there, a short stint as director of public relations at the Shriners Hospital in Galveston. We felt we had the background to make this work, so we discussed the prospect of moving forward. I have a deep understanding of how to take over a business and make it successful. Shelly has a solid background in marketing and public relations. We both love riding motorcycles and were looking for something to do! So before leaving Stubbs I had decided to call the agent back the next day and tell him we were interested and asked for a sales package… what’s next? After looking at the package we saw the pricing was for two regions, I only wanted to purchase one region, the South. But Shelly was adamant that we must purchase both sections. She felt that with Texas being such a proud state it would be beneficial to produce a single magazine to the entire state. I did not disagree with this logic. Not giving my negotiating secrets away, suffice to say, I got both regions for a really good price. I got the magazine for the price I was willing to pay, Shelly got the entire state, and the previous owner got cold hard cash! Win, win win!

Posse of 2011 Page 28

January 2011

So the saga began. We had many challenges. While full of business and marketing savvy, we had no publication experience, save Shelly’s bouts of corporate newsletters and writing copy for marketing brochures and websites. Where to begin? It was time to lay out responsibilities and divide up the work load. First up, financials. During due diligence, we decided that we were not

ThunderRoadsTexas.com

interested in taking on their receivables and started from scratch. We went through the list; bank account – check; accounting software – check; line of credit with the printer – check; credit card account – check; business account with a courier service (distribution) – check. I’m ready to go – where’s the income? Fortunately we were able to keep a number of advertisers that helped with cash flow right away…a very good thing That brings us to producing the magazine. Shelly has more background with using publishing software, but only with 8-page newsletters, not 40-page magazines. Heck – that’s more than I had, so Shelly’s up! She sat with the designer/layout artist for the previous owner and started working out what would be in that first issue in January 2008, when we would take over the publication and distribution. The agreement called for them to lay out the first two issues, but we quickly learned (late November 2007) that the designer had tendered his resignation and that was not going to happen. We were on our own!! What to do?!?! We won’t be stopped now. We quickly purchased publication software and a “How to” book for Shelly. She got to work learning and laying out our first issue. It’s amazing what she produced that first time around! While the magazine has continued to look better and better each month, that first issue sure looked great. She really got her groove on. Now we needed sales and content! Our buddy “Shovelhead” Bill stepped up to the plate and immediately started selling the magazine. He was a long time biker dude with a riding history in Florida and Texas primarily, but also all over the world. He proffered up his own monthly feature article – “Out-and-About” and managed to hang on to the wild ride for more than two years. Then our dear friend Barry Claffey came along with an ad in the magazine and an offer of help wherever he was needed. We were on our way!! After many discussions between myself, Shelly, and Bill (many, many discussions – some not very quiet), we settled on a “niche”. Our magazine would concentrate on the rider – where do they go and what do they do when on their bikes? We don’t care what anyone rides… just that they ride. We decided to specialize in events around the state, vowing to have the most comprehensive motorcycle event listing published in Texas. We spend hours each month hunting down the events, not waiting for them to come to us. And that niche is paying off. As the dust settled, specific responsibilities became obvious. Shelly made the magazine each month along with doing sales. I took on all of the accounting and finance, along with producing and maintaining our website…and I also did sales. Actually, things were coming together nicely. Of course, we can’t forget “Crazy Al”! We inherited him. He’s proud to say he’s been through 3 owners and 20 editors – and outlasted them all! He agreed to continue his popular “PigTrails” article – and we loved it! If you have not met Crazy Al, you need to! Early in 2009 we made the addition of Reynolds Mannson to our sales staff. He was very well connected in the bike market and got a lot of great things going for us quickly. Then also in 2009, we picked up Elm “Scout” Valle with his review article “The Scout Report” and Mean Gene Kelton with his “Black Leather Blues”. While we say “good-bye” to Mean Gene this month, he has promised to continue promoting and distributing Thunder Roads Texas; and sending in the occasional article – when time allows. We wish him the best of luck in his new life as a movie star! This year we did two very important things; 1) We added a highly successful reader rides program – Points Across Texas™. The inaugural year was phenomenal. Readers from all across Texas participated and you’ve seen their efforts in our monthly feature, “Snapshots from Points Across Texas”. This month is the beginning of the 2011 program. 2) We greatly increased our sponsor program for Texas based bike rallies. In 2010 we sponsored 12 of the most important Texas rallies, including the Lone Star Rally, giving us a strong foundation to build on in 2011. That brings us to today… we have more than 10 sales staff and 25 correspondents… and accept submissions from anyone that wishes to send us something of interest to our readers. All we ask is that the article is motorcycle related and Texas connected. The magazine has gone from operating in the red to profitable in three years. What you may not know – our license requires that we remain a free publication. As such, our only source of revenue is from advertisers. So we’ll never look like a Texas Monthly (gosh, don’t we wish!). We work very hard to maintain a balance of advertising and content with a goal of no more than 60% ads. The cost of printing and distribution comprise 70% of expenses and it’s not a cheap business. Thunder Roads Texas is part of a national network covering most of the central, south, and east portion of the U.S. Based out of Tennessee, Thunder Roads Magazine is in 23 states with 20 editions. As we continue our journey, we always work to improve… the look of the magazine, the content, our bottom line… but mostly, our reputation as an all inclusive, widely respected motorcycle magazine that appeals to Texas riders of all creeds. We encourage readers to send in pictures for the Thunder Cam page, send articles with pictures to share, send event information to make sure we have all events (it’s a free basic listing), and most of all – tell our advertisers that you see them in Thunder Roads Texas… and if you don’t see them in the magazine, tell them about it! You are our best marketing tool. Advertisers like to know their ad is working… that it is seen. Here’s wishing you all a great 2011 riding year. Be safe… drive right, pass left, and stay the hell off my tail!

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Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

Posse of 2008 January 2011

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Want to see YOUR mug in our mag? Send pics to Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas.com. Page 30

January 2011

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January 2011

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Joker’s Wild “B

less me Father, for I have sinned. I have been with a loose girl.” The priest asks, “Is that you, little Eddie Hunter?”

“Yes, Father, it is.” “And who was the girl you were with?” “I can’t tell you, Father, I don’t want to ruin her reputation.” Not accepting this answer, the Father replies, “Well, Eddie, I’m sure to find out her name sooner or later so you may as well tell me now. “Was it Tina Minetti?” Eddie stands firm, “I cannot say.” “Was it Teresa Mazzarelli?” the Father persists. “I’ll never tell, “ “Cristi Capelli?” “I’m sorry, Father but I cannot name her.” “Cathy Piriano?” “My lips are sealed.” “Rosa DiAngelo, then?” “Please, Father, I cannot tell you,” insists Eddie. The priest sighs in frustration. “You’re very tight lipped and I admire that. But you’ve sinned and have to atone. You cannot be an altar boy for four months. Now you go and behave yourself.” Eddie walks back to his pew and his friend slides over and whispers, “What’d you get?” “Four months’ vacation and five really good leads!”

Waiting in the cab, my wife doesn’t want the driver to know that the house will be empty for the night, so, she explains to the taxi driver, “My husband will be just a minute. He’s just gone upstairs to say goodbye to my mother.” The driver nods. A few minutes later, I get into the cab. “Sorry I took so long,” I said, as we drove away. “That stupid bitch was hiding under the bed. I had to poke her with a coat hanger to get her to come out! She tried to take off, so I grabbed her by the neck. Then, I had to wrap her in a blanket to keep her from scratching me. But it worked! I hauled her fat ass downstairs and threw her out into the back yard!” The cab driver then hit a parked car.

our guys go fishing. After an hour, the following conversation took place:

First guy: “You have no idea what I had to do to be able to come out fishing this weekend. I had to promise my wife that I would paint every room in the house next weekend.” Second guy: “That is nothing. I had to promise my wife that I would build her a new deck for the pool.” Third guy: “Man, you both have it easy! I had to promise my wife that I would remodel the kitchen for her.”

arley received a parrot as a gift. The parrot cussed like a drunken sailor. Tried as he might, Harley could not get the parrot to stop cussing so raunchy and acting out. Finally, after an all-day fight and lecture to the bird, Harley, in desperation, threw up his hands, grabbed the bird and put him in the freezer. For a few minutes the parrot squawked and kicked on the door. Then, suddenly there was total quiet. Fearing that he’d hurt the parrot, Harley quickly opened the door to the freezer. The parrot calmly stepped out onto Harley’s outstretched arm and said “I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I’m sincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct my unforgivable behavior.” Harley was stunned at the change in the bird’s attitude. As he was about to ask the parrot what had made such a dramatic change in his behavior, the bird inquired, very softly, “May I be so bold as to ask what the turkey did?”

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e were dressed and ready to go out for the New Years Eve Party. We did our usual ritual before going out. We put the cat in the backyard and called a cab. The taxi arrived and as we’re leaving the damn cat runs back in the house. When we go out we always have to make sure the cat is in the back yard as he has a tendency to attack the bird’s cage and gets the bird all upset, who then squawks all night and upsets the neighbors. My wife goes out to the taxi, while I went inside to catch the cat and return it to the back yard. The cat runs upstairs, with me in hot pursuit.

January 2011

They continue to fish. When they realized that the fourth guy has not said a word, they asked him, “You haven’t said anything about what you had to do to be able to come fishing this weekend. What’s the deal?” Fourth guy: “I just set my alarm for 5:30 am. When it went off, I shut off the alarm, gave the wife a playful slap on the ass and said: ‘Fishing or Sex?’ And she groggily replied, ’Wear sun-block.’”

reat Bumper Stickers: Forget about World Peace....visualize using your turn signal. Consciousness: That annoying time between beers.

Born free... taxed to death. Horn Does Not Work - Watch For Finger! WARNING: Driver only carries $20.00 worth of ammunition. Work Harder. People on Welfare Depend on You. ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

January 2011

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Biker Friendly Listing

Listed here are businesses that are SERIOUS about serving the Texas Motorcycle Community. The list is sorted by Region, as provided by the Texas Travel Guide. An “*” means you can find Thunder Roads Texas at these locations. Additionally you can find us at ALL Harley-Davidson dealerships, and Cycle Gear and Renegade Classics locations in Texas. Visit ThunderRoadsTexas.com to find a full listing of distribution points. Tell them you saw them in Thunder Road Texas!

BIG BEND *Barnett Harley-Davidson 8272 Gateway East on I-10 El Paso, TX 79907 800.453.1513 BarnettHarley.com *Legacy Harley-Davidson 12100 W Hwy 80 East Odessa, TX 79765 800.788.6921 LegacyH-D.com

GULF COAST *Alamo Bar & Grill 7846 Fallbrook Dr Houston, TX 77086 281.537.7647 MySpace.com/HoustonsAlamo *Awesome Cycles 281.293.7663 AwesomeCycles.com *Ball Insurance 416 S Main St Highlands, TX 77563 800.444.7014 BallIns.com *Big Mike’s Apparel 5014 Louella Deer Park, TX 77536 281.542.9938 BigMikesApparel.com *Choppers 18419 Kuykendahl Spring, TX 77388 281.288.5595 ChoppersSportsBar.com *Concert Pub North (formerly Texas Rock Tavern 2470 FM 1960 Houston, TX 77068 281.583.8111 TheConcertPub.com *Corpus Christi Harley-Davidson 502 Padre Island Dr Corpus Christi, TX 78408 361.854.3146 CorpusChristiHarley.com *Cowboy Harley-Davidson Beaumont 1150 IH-10 South Beaumont, TX 77707 88.839.4464 CowboyHarley.com *Eagle Cycles 11800 Jones Rd Houston, TX 77070 281.955.0064 EagleCyclesTX.com *Farrar & Ball LLP LAW TIGERS 1010 Lamar, Ste 1600 Houston, TX 77002 888.LAW-TIGERS (529.8443) LawTigers.com *Goe Harley-Davidson 1350 S 288B Angleton, TX 77515 281.383.1000 GoeHarley-Davidson.com Haley Insurance PO Box 8787 The Woodlands, TX 77387 888.4.BIKERS (424.5377) HaleyInsuranceOnline.com

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January 2011

*Harley-Davidson of Kingwood 111 Northpines Dr Kingwood, TX 77365 281.358.0457 KingwoodHarley.com *Hawg Stop 11335 Sheldon Rd Houston, TX 77044 281.456.7867 www.HawgStop.com *Houston Motorsports North 9550 FM 1960 West Houston, TX 77070 281.890.2020 HoustonYamaha.com *Jackel Motorsports West 3719 Hwy 90 Brookshire, TX 77423 281.934.4444 JackelWest.com *Jailhouse Saloon 310 Preston Spring, TX 77373 281.288.0255 JailhouseSaloonTX.com *Mancuso Harley-Davidson Crossroads 12710 Crossroads Park Dr Houston, TX 77065 281.970.9700 MancusoCrossroads.com Mullis Air & Heat Houston Area 281.468.5819

*Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop & Bent Rim Grill 657 West Ranch Rd Leakey, TX 78873 830.232.6629 FrioCanyonMotorcycleStop.biz BentRimGrill.com *Gruene Harley-Davidson 1288 Loop 337 New Braunfels, TX 78130 830.624.2473 GrueneHarley.com *Javelina Harley-Davidson 29078 I-10 West Boerne, TX 78006 800-860-9696 JavelinaHarleyDavidson.com *Phantom Rider Choppers 6535 West Hwy 46 New Braunfels, TX 78132 830.228.4606 PhantomRiderChoppers.com *Scooters & Shooters 525 E Hwy 29 Bertram, TX 78605 512.355.8070 *Southern Metal Choppers 11116 Middle Fiskville Rd, Ste E Austin, TX 78753 512.833.5044 SouthernMetalChoppers.com

PANHANDLE

*Potterosa Cycles & ATVs 19447 FM 1485 New Caney, TX 77357 281.689.0400 PotterosaCycles@att.net

*Affordable Leather 3302 N Midkiff Rd Midland, TX 79705 432.699.0775 Affordable-Leather-WTX.com

*Ron’s Relay Retreat 36009 Howell Rd Waller, TX 77484 979.921.0771 RonsRelay.com

*Bully’s Grill 8542 Seymour Hwy Wichita Falls, TX 76310 940.689.9195

*Stitches 1308 Hwy 6 South Houston, TX 77077 281.558.8572

*Flying V Creations 1903 College Ave Snyder, TX 79549 325.436.0197 MySpace.com/FlyingVCreations

*Team Mancuso Powersports - Gulf Fwy 10222 Gulf Fwy Houston, TX 77034 281.486.4604 TMPGF.com

*Lubbock Custom Motorcycles 11804 South University #A Lubbock, TX 79423 806.745.7167 LubbockCustomMotorcycles.com

*Team Mancuso Powersports - SW 7537 SW Freeway Houston, TX 77074 713.955.9944 TMPSW.com

*Midessa Motorcycles 8100 West Highway 80 Midland, TX 79706 432.563.4109 MidessaMotorcycle.com

* VIP Apparel 2219 Post Office Street Galveston, TX 77550 VIPBikerApparel.com 409.457.8316

*Rolling Thunder Bar & Grll 6441 County Road 2173 Fluvanna, TX 79517 325.573.HAWG (4294) RollingThunderBarAndGrill.com

*West of the Brazos Bar & Grill 23220 Hwy 36 Damon, TX 77430 979.742.3100 MySpace.com/WestOfTheBrazos

HILL COUNTRY *D’Rose Inn & Cabins 527 Hwy 83 Leakey, TX 78873 830.232.5246 DRoseInn.com

PINEY WOODS *Cycle Heaven 3770 Hwy 69N Lufkin, TX 75904 936.634.8404 CycleHeavenTX.com *Phantom Custom Cycles 34507 SH 249 Pinehurst, TX 77362 281.766.1549 PhantomCustomCycles.com

RPMs Bar 26210 FM 2978 Magnolia, TX 77354 281.259.7789

PRAIRIES & LAKES Dragonstar Motorcycle Transport Bryan, TX 77806 281.935.8890 GetARide.net *Frisco Custom Cycles 6427 West Main St Frisco, TX 75034 214.387.0650 FriscoCustomCycles.com *Harley-Davidson of Waco 1524 I-35 South Waco, TX 76706 254.753.0393 HDWaco.com *Horny Toad Bar & Grill Cranfills Gap, TX 76637 254.597.1100 HornyToadBar.com *Longhorn Harley-Davidson 2830 West I-20 Grand Prairie, TX 75052 972.988.1903 LonghornHD.com *Moto Liberty 11441 N Stemmons Fwy Dallas, TX 75229 972.243.5995 MotoLiberty.com *Snook Watering Hole FM 2155 Snook, TX 77879 979.272.3715 SnookWateringHole.com *Thunder Alley Cycles 416 NE Wilshire Blvd Burleson, TX 76028 817.295.0955 ThunderAlleyCycles.com *Yankee’s Tavern 10328 FM 244 Carlos, TX 77843 936.873.3314 YankeesTavern.com

SOUTH TEXAS *Caliente Harley-Davidson 7230 NW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78245 210.681.CALI (2254) CalienteHarley.com *Cowboy’s Alamo City Harley-Davidson 11005 IH 35 North San Antonio, TX 78233 800.397.7875 CowboysAlamoCityHarley.com *Insurance Lady Agency 642 W Rhapsody, Ste A San Antonio, TX 78216 214.403.2216 InsuranceLadyInc.com *Joe Harrison Motorsports 9710 I-35 North San Antonio, TX 78233 210.656.9400 JHMS.com *Kent Powersports 15664 I-35 Selma, TX 78154 210.656.9400

ThunderRoadsTexas.com

STATEWIDE

KentPowersports.com Mission Wrecker 4535 FM 1516 N Converse, TX 78109 MissionWrecker.com

Outlaw Dave Show 9*5*0 AM in Houston 950KPRC.com to listen online. OutlawNation.us

* Motorcycle Tire Shop 1917 S Hackberry San Antonio, TX 78210 210.533.BIKE (2453) Motoorcycle-Superstore.com

*Mean Gene Kelton 713.866.4872 MeanGeneRocks.com

*Texas Pride Barbeque 2980 East Loop 1604 Adkins, TX 78101 210.649.3730 TexasPrideBBQ.net

Texas Riding Maps Motorcycle-Maps.us

*Yamaha of San Antonio A Kent Powersports Company 15664 I-35 Selma, TX 78154 210.655.2625 KentPowersports.com

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

January 2011

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