Thunder Roads Texas - October 2011 by Thunder Roads Texas

The MOST Comprehensive Event Listing Published in Texas!

This Year

Presented by

October 2011

Also Inside:

 ThunderRoadsTexas.com 

Testament of a Rookie Rider Ride Map: Not Just for the Birds!

Contents 

October 2011

On the Cover 28 Lone Star Rally Celebrates 10 Years This Month 11

Testament of a Rookie Rider

Regular Features 6

From the Editor

PigTrails: It’s My Life!

Two Wheel Thunder TV Review: BUB Mufflers

Pink Thunder: Maintaining Your Bike (Joni Kelton)

Monthly Ride Map: Not Just for the Birds

30 32

ThunderCam Joker’s Wild

Resources 19

Event Listing

CENTER - Pull-Out October 2011 Calendar 35

Biker Friendly Listing

On the cover: Photo by Bob Cooney. Lone Star Rally 2010.

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

ADVERTISING SALES

Thunder Roads Texas Main Office 281.866.8149 ThunderRoadsBob@yahoo.com

Bonnie Estes - Austin/Hill Country AngelWing1555@yahoo.com 512.673.6679

Reynolds Mansson - Statewide M2Motomedia@gmail.com 210.259.9916

Linda Morris - Houston tatewaci3322@msn.com 713.897.9109

Bill “Shovelhead” Barnes - Houston ThunderRoadsBill@yahoo.com 321.960.6161 Justin Turnage - DFW jtrockone8@gmail.com 254.205.1447

Thunder Roads Texas Bob Cooney & Shelly Horan State Edition Owners 4631 Cashel Glen Drive Houston, TX 77069 281.866.8149 ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Manuel A. Valladares - DFW MValladares@saferis.net 214.245.6217

Angela Epperson - Waco/DFW AJoyEpperson@aol.com 254.493.3830 James Williams - San Antonio/Hill Country James@TexasMotorcycleAdventures.com 830.708.6198

IN MEMORIAM

Mean Gene Kelton 1953-2010 Feature Writer - Black Leather Blues Thunder Roads Texas 2009-2010

Layout & Design Shelly Horan Top of Mind Marketing 832.585.4045 Top.of.Mind.Marketing@gmail.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.

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

Amy Conklin - Houston TRM.Amy@gmail.com 832.498.6693 Bob Engler - Plano/DFW Trip@BlackBettysBlog.com 302.229.4156

FEATURE WRITERS

“Crazy Al” - PigTrails; Peggy Beck - Two Wheel Thunder TV Reviews; Joni “Even Meaner” Kelton, Brandy “Tex” Valdez, Terri Williams (TMRA2) Calendar Photos & Other Photography Work Lonn Hafferty Black Chair Photography

CORRESPONDENTS Kitti Kluna - Houston; Ron Blansett - Houston; Linda Morris - Houston; Mark Appenzeller - D/FW; Joyce Siegert - 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; Kim Ferris; Shelly “Cricket” Beatty - Spring Branch; Sir Richard Vance - Corpus Christi; Randy McCamey - West Texas; Don Brewer - Livingston; Pete Martinez - Houston; Jason English - Piney Woods; Sean Kester - D/ FW; Roger Bowles - Waco; Lonnie & Pam Fitch - Galveston; Donny Phillips - LaPorte

So far, the 2011 Fall Rally Season is doing well, although the economic times are hitting everyone. Many rallies reported lower attendance, but those Thunder Roads Texas sponsored this fall, Summertime Bikes & Blues (Freeport, September 2-4), The Texas Rally (Somerville, September 8-11), and the Oldest Town in Texas (OTT) Rally (Nacogdoches, September 15-18) all reported higher attendance and more vendor participation. Our biker community doesn’t like to give up our rallies! In October, we are proud sponsors of the Boo Benefit (Jefferson, October 7-9), Take Back Texas Rally (Axtell, October 7-9), WHCEMS 566 Charity Ride (Houston to San Antonio to Austin, October 14-15), and the Bikers for Bikers Halloween Rally (Magnolia, October 28-30). Don’t forget our monthly bike night, Thursday, October 20, at the Concert Pub North (FM 1960 West at Kuykendahl, in Northwest Houston) where we’ll have one more pre-party for the Lone Star Rally (Galveston, November 3-6). Speaking of the Lone Star Rally… we’re pleased to announce that we will be presenting and setting up shop at the Devil’s Cut Saloon on the Strand overlooking Saengerfest Park during the rally. It is also the landing spot for the Outlaw Dave Ranch Ride on Saturday, November 5. We’ll be hanging with Outlaw Dave as he broadcasts live from the Devil’s Cut Saloon and with the good folks from Jim Beam. So come by, sit a spell, and enjoy the view of The Strand from the balcony! Before I end this… we have a new contributor that brings a lot to the table. Peggy Beck with Two Wheel Thunder TV will be providing our readers with product and service reviews, replacing our already missed Elm “Scout” Valle. Two Wheel Thunder TV does product and service reviews for major brands and manufacturers from around the nation. We are proud to offer our readers exclusive Two Wheel Thunder TV reviews for the state of Texas! As you will see from this month’s article, you can visit their site (TwoWheelThunderTV.com) for additional reviews, videos, and more that back up what you’ll find in Thunder Roads Texas motorcycle magazine. So… WELCOME Peggy and Two Wheel Thunder TV! Ride safe... and ride with THUNDER ! Shelly “TX Dragonfly” Horan Editor / Owner Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas.com Owner, Top of Mind Marketing Top.of.Mind.Marketing@gmail.com

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ThunderRoadsTexas.com

It’s My Life! now know what is like to not be able to ride very often. My wife suffered a stroke in February of this year and most of my time is spent at work and making sure everything is taken care of at home. I do want to let my readers in on my wife Paula’s progress.

good friends. The meet spot is always important. Always pick a spot that is on the outskirts of town so that you are on the back roads in no time. After a few well deserved “bro hugs” and some great conversation we were on our way!

Here, seven months later she is in very good health. Her spirits are great! We have no more doctors’ visits. And we don’t have to spend most of our days off at the hospital. The area of the brain that was affected is the control center of her eyes. So my wife is hampered by double vision and a blur factor that limits her site. While I am bitter that this happened to such a young, outgoing, fun loving and wonderful person, I am so very thankful that she is alive and well… and my wife!

Along our route that day we hit a couple of awesome roads. If you are ever in the Weatherford area of North Texas there is a road called Old Garner. This baby is a jewel of road. First of all it runs about 23 miles. Most back roads don’t run that long nonstop. This honey has hills and valleys; twists and turns. A few parts run through the trees that form a tunnel over the top of the road. I love that stuff.

Our life runs at a slower pace these days but we still try to make the most of every minute we have together. We take long walks at night. Have picnics in the park. Quality time could not get any better. Some things I thought I would miss don’t seem to be a big deal any more. Late nights at your local biker bar with the huge bar tab! Although… we would like to get out and have a cocktail in a smokey old blues bar some day! I don’t miss my wife working and being in control of a big company and all the day-to-day stress that comes with it. Now my wife has an online craft store (PaulaBunch.com) and she gets to spend her days doing something she has always loved to do but just didn’t have the time. She is a Craft Master! At this point in our life we are doing good. We still hope and pray for miracles to happen and God to help her with her eyes. If you find the time please say a prayer for my wonderful wife Paula. She is my wife, my life, my lover, and my best friend and I thank God that she is in my life! I got the chance to go for a ride last month! It was only my second ride in the last seven months. It could not have gone better. The weather was awesome. I think the high was around 85 degrees. What a change from just the week before. We met up early in Fort Worth with just four of my

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Once we got to Garner we made a pit stop for more great road side conversation. Stops always make your ride more enjoyable. It gives you a chance to reflect on how much the ride means to you and how blessed we are to get to have this freedom! The next road we hit on the way back is called Old Athton Road. It was a new road for me. I found it the night before when I was checking out my route on Google Earth. All I had two see was about six 90 degree turns and my choice was made. Old Athton was awesome! Great corners, awesome views, lots of country farms and plenty of cows! I love Cows! Coming back into Weatherford we stopped for a bite to eat at Skinny’s Hamburgers. Don’t let the name fool you! Nothing was skinny about their burgers. This is one of those great road side hot spots that should be featured on a reality show. The food was fantastic. Of course I chose “The Big Skinny”; a burger with chili, cheese, mushrooms, grilled onions and jalapeños! Even the owner came out to chat with us about our ride and make sure our meal was perfect! Good Stuff!!! I needed this ride like nobody’s business. Absolute therapy at its best. A shout out to Pat, Kenny, Charlie and Mike! What

a day and what a ride! Lets Roll! It is easy for me to see the good things about life! I think it is sad that sometimes it takes hard times to recognize the good times. My wife and I have always lived our lives to the fullest. You should make the most of your life! You never know what tomorrow will bring. You should slow down. Everything moves way too fast these days. People are in too big of a hurry! Plus it’s dangerous. I see more passion in people on the road way trying to get one car space ahead of the car in front of them rather than being polite and just letting someone on the freeway. When you have been through the journey my wife and I are going through you realize all the stuff that most people are worried about are really not that important at all. So my advice to end this column is run a different route today! Be kind to the people around you. Smile instead of frown. Tell someone you care about them. Do a good deed and see how good it feels! Call your family and tell them you love them. Kiss your spouse and thank God you are there to love and support each other. And last but not least the adventure of riding is to ride another day!

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ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

October 2011

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ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Testament of a Rookie Rider By Shelly “Cricket” Beatty

ow that I have your attention, let me take a moment to introduce myself. I am a new correspondent to Thunder Roads Magazine. My name is Shelly “Cricket” Beatty. I am 38 years old. I have four children from ages 18 years to 2 years. I am 4 foot, 10-and-half-inches and yes, I count the half! I have been a passenger for 3 years until last year. I signed up for a Riders Edge Course at Gruene Harley Davidson and waited for my husband who was still deployed for another few weeks in Afghanistan to call. I explained that 18 months of not riding while he was gone was killing me. I wanted my own bike. He said to take a riding course and let him know if I still wanted one. I laughed and said “I have already signed up for the course, the class is next weekend.” He was a little shocked that I was so serious. With some doubt, my husband purchased my first bike, a limited edition 2010 Harley 1200 Sportster called a 48, through military sales. In his mind, if I hated it, he could sell it and it pay for itself. It didn’t take me long to realize what everyone around me was thinking upon hearing the news. I assumed that I would hear encouragement, but found that most actually had the opposite to say. It was rather interesting to hear the comments. I guess that being short and a female, that I was being underestimated or was I? I began to rationalize my own choice to ride my own bike after being a passenger, my age, the expense, and could I actually do it, 576 pounds sounded like a lot to handle. There was not one bike I could stand up on the show room floor that didn’t have to be lowered. I chose not to let the comments discourage me or intimidate me. I chose, instead, to think… there are plenty of female riders out there, why not me! Day one and two of Riders Edge, no problem, book work. Day 3, I never want to relive. Who knew riding a bike was so physical? Ok, maybe everyone, but me. So, here’s the picture… a four foot ten girl on the smallest Buell, which they let as much air as safe, out of the back tire. Guess what, I was still on tippy toe, even with my supped-up healed riding boots. I will never forget the bruises. Yes, bruises. It felt like I had rode a bull, no lie and we hadn’t even started the engine. I finally asked the instructor if it had fuel and oil in it. He answered “yes, but why?” I said “can we start the engine already?” He said “after break.” If you’ve ever been to the Gruene Harley Davidson parking lot, you would say it has no slope to it. I’m here to tell you when your pushing 300-some-odd pounds there is! After a break and more book work, we headed back out to the course. Finally, we got to start that engine. My heart raced, it was then I knew I really, really wanted to ride. If they had given me a name, it would have been “Choke”. It’s amazing that bike still has a starter. I probably stalled that bike seven times to every one time I succeeded in taking off. But I was smiling, scared, and riding. Day four of Riders Edge. I woke up, bruised, bloody, and wore completely out. Determined to pass the class, I duct taped my raw bloody skin on the inside of the knee, thigh area. With the written part of the test done, today would be the riding portion of the test. That figure eight is tough, but I realized I was good at everything else. I decided to put

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

my best effort into the figure eight and make the points up every where else. Stopping fast with the bike in first gear and both breaks applied was the last test. I was getting my license, if I passed this last test. So, off I went, second gear reached, then stopping at the mark as best I could. I looked over at the instructor who was the toughest on me. He smiled, as I heard him call out 7.9. Excited, I was! The other numbers I heard called were much higher. The second instructor looked up and said, sorry you’ll have to do it again. I think I felt my heart drop. He explained that I was going faster than the parameters that were to be measured for the test. Redone, was 8.9 and guess what, my name was called for those who passed! Oh, man I couldn’t wait for the Texas Department of Transportation to open on Monday. The written portion of the test was a breeze. It’s an electronic test of 14 questions. If you pass the first 14 questions the test ends. If not, then you get another question either until you pass 14 questions total or hit their fail mark. I wanted to dance right there in the office. I was getting a class M on my driver’s license. Fast forward to two weeks later and a month into my decision. So, here I am ready for my first ride on my own bike, motorcycle paper license in hand, bike delivered with a reach seat and lowering done. A block and some shock were taken out to lower it an inch and a half. That was as low as they could go. I sat on my bike, much heavier at 576 pounds, again tippy toed in boots but, not quite as much. I peered out at my first obstacle… getting out of my yard. The front yard is dead grass and straight on to a dirt road that is rarely maintained, a 100 yards before pavement. I think my husband was more panicked than me. He said all the he could think about was a trip to the hospital and a tore up new bike. I fallowed him out to the pavement, my first stop. Then down our road three miles to a second stop. Next was 200 yards to our destination. I rolled into the bike parking, put it in neutral, turned off the engine, and set it on the kick stand. I did it all and without stalling seven times. I got off glad I made the choice to ride my own, but honestly scared as could be! The Buell at 300-something-pounds is nothing compared to the weight and engine I was sitting on. I looked up to see everyone staring at me and checking out the bike, truly a proud moment. I went inside to get a drink and show my bike off to some friends. Again, I was surprised to find there were some among the group that were nice enough to ask if I had dropped it yet. I painted on a smile and said nope! Truth was, I was a Rookie Rider. I either had to figure it all out or go back to being a passenger. I had only ridden three little miles. I hadn’t ridden in rain, traffic, hills, s-turns… the list goes on. So, in a year-and-a-half of riding, here is what the Rookie Rider learned that no one told me, three years of being a passenger never taught me, and not even Riders Edge provided a clue. First, there is clothing. Yep, they cover that in Riders Edge, but they don’t tell you that wearing a thong on a bike is fine, just don’t wear lace ones, on a long ride. One word comes to mind, “raw”. Shirts… although sexy, v-necks make up half the biker clothing world but are not

good if you have no wind shield on your bike. My hubby was always the wind shield for me. I would not like to know what the people were thinking as they passed me at 65 MPH with my Victoria Secrets on display. At some point I looked down to see why the breeze had changed. I know, I know, duh and there is more. On a serious note, let’s talk about rain. This is always a Rookie Rider’s fear: your first ride in the rain. Again, a wind shield would be nice. Did you know that rain hurts, even at 45 MPH? I made it through 20 miles of pouring rain in traffic barely seeing the tail lights of the car in front of me. This was one of my first rides alone and I got caught in a down pour. I hit my little three mile road for the last stretch and my smart self, down shifted in the rain, in a turn. Luckily, and I do say luckily this little Rookie was able to maintain the bike while the back end wanted to skid out from under me. I learned that two wheels are not four. A little panicked now and not yet to my dirt road I see the water swelling over the road way and a pond formed ahead. No down shifting came to mind, but how deep was it? I guessed if I wanted to go home, I would have to see. Since, I was soaked already I never bothered to lift my feet. Water poured over the bike up into the air and back on me. I could only imagine what would have happened had I not slowed down. I was now covered in mud! That dirt road ahead was not looking so exciting. I got to it just knowing I’d have to park the bike and walk 100 yards to the house since my road floods out. Luckily, it was the only road that hadn’t. I wanted bright orange rain gear after that, a wind shield, and my lips to quit looking like I got Botox injections from the rain. I literally had bruises on my arms from the rain for a week, from not having my arms covered. My skin was bright red and tender for hours. Lesson truly learned. There are other lessons this Rookie has learned. You will learn to wave at other riders passing you, just not on your very first day of riding. Deer are not biker friendly. Bike washes never have a bathing suited man washing the bikes and you will pay a chick to wash that bike so you don’t have to. A helmet can make you look like Stevie Wonder in the wind with no wind shield, until you build neck muscles. Other women riders are tougher on you than the men are. Riding a motorcycle makes you a better driver in a passenger vehicle. Most, important, you are always a Rookie Rider. What I mean is that if you have not experienced something during a prior ride then you are a Rookie. It seems as if every ride, even down the same road is a different ride every day. Don’t ever get lazy just because something is familiar. Best of all, you can ride a motorcycle even if your 4 foot 10-and-half inches and a female! If you wonder why I wrote this, it’s because nine out of 10 people, men and womem, told me that I didn’t belong on a bike! I have just enjoyed the first year and a half of proving them wrong, and truly loving my bike.

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BUB Mufflers for Harley-Davidson Touring Models re you in tune with your ride? You know the way it feels, the way it sounds, the way it looks… It is, after all, an extension of you, your personality, persona, and ego. Call it what you will… it has to look good… even more importantly SOUND good. The new rides today have fuel injection. And while they have made a lot of improvements to our bikes, they have also altered that sound. You know the low rumble of the carbureted bikes? Are you old enough to remember the sound that stirred your soul? Well, I have found it! BUB Enterprises has a true dual exhaust that will bring tears to your eyes. You’ll nostalgically recall the sound of youth and excitement. The person behind BUB Enterprises is Denis “BUB” Manning. For those of you who don’t know, BUB stands for “Big Ugly Bastard” – a nickname earned early in his motorcycle racing career while working with “The Flying Dutchman” Dutch Mueller. One more amazing fact before talking about the exhaust system we’re reviewing… in September 2009, at Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats, the BUB Seven Streamliner set the new land speed record. It is currently the World’s Fastest Motorcycle at 367.832 MPH. They are now working to hit 400 MPH this year, with new tires designed by Goodyear. Now we are not saying you are going to be going that fast,

but what we will say is that your bike will run good, sound good, and LOOK great!

proven stepped header technology running from 1 ¾ inches to 2 inches.

We have known Denis for several years now and he asked us to test his pipes on our bike. We tested the 7 True Dual exhaust system on a 2008 HD Ultra. With over three thousand miles on the pipes, we found no blueing or turning of color. And the sound is true old school HD. I thought that sound was gone for good with these new fuel injected bikes. The pipes are easy to put on your bike and the kit contains everything you need for installation.

• Specially designed, Dyno proven baffles increase performance and give the system a deep aggressive tone without objectionable noise.

Since its inception, BUB has created exhaust systems with exceptional power and torque throughout the power band. Match the TDX headers with the available 7 Stealth mufflers and you will get unbelievable performance, with a sound level that is legal in all 50 states.

EVENT

Check out these facts: • BUB 7 True Dual exhaust systems utilize performance-

• The headers are covered by 2 1/4” heat shields with the BUB 7 logo precisely die-stamped into rear heat shield. • 3 1/2” mufflers run the length of the bags and finish with unique adjustable slash-cut outlets. The slash can be fixed in the upward or downward position. • The system comes standard with dual 02 sensor ports. • All BUB 7 systems are built to BUB’s highest quality and performance standards. BUB makes pipes for most makes of bikes, both Metric and American. Find the ones that fit your bike and get moving. Look for your pipes here: BUBEnt.com. And if you want to see a video of the BUB exhaust, visit TwoWheelThunderTV.com.

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ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Maintaining Your Bike: Don’t Just Put The Key In and Go! By Joni Kelton

our car sits in the driveway waiting for you to get in, turn the key and go. Four wheels on the ground. You get a flat tire. You pull over, get it changed and you are on your way. Maybe the oil light comes on. You go to your mechanic and he fixes it. How many of us tell the mechanic, “I just put the key in and go!” Motorcycles are not like cars. Same scenario: You go get on your bike, crank it up, and go. You didn’t notice that gash in your front tire from metal on the road from your last trip. You’re on the highway doing 60 MPH, and you have a blowout. Don’t make me tell you the rest. Motorcycle maintenance is not just a mundane, routine, and boring chore. It’s necessary – life-preserving necessary. You do not have the luxury of 4,000 pounds of metal around you to protect you from a blowout. Get to know your bike – every inch of it. Even if you don’t work on your bike yourself, it’s entirely up to you to monitor changes, necessary maintenance issues, and to take precautions against a possible disaster. You don’t have to be a certified mechanic to familiarize yourself with your bike. Before any ride, take time to inspect your bike front to rear, top to bottom and make sure nothing is wrong. I can’t stress enough… you have to take responsibility every time you turn the key; every time. There are really great motorcycle people all around you. If you don’t want to do maintenance yourself, get a recommendation for a good shop and mechanic. Stay away from the shade tree mechanics. Nothing against them personally, but if something goes wrong, you have little recourse for correcting the problem. A licensed shop gets all the latest service updates, and knows your particular brand of motorcycle inside and out. I had a recent experience I doubt guys would ever have. I took my Harley to a shop for a maintenance issue. I drove around back as instructed, and went through the garage door to tell the mechanic the issue. I stood there for ten minutes while he wrenched on a bike on a lift. I greeted him and he looked up. No response. I know he saw me. I waited a few minutes. No response. Finally, I yelled something to the effect of “Hey, just because I have *#@&! doesn’t mean I am standing here just to watch you work… (fill in the blank)”. He finally came over. I matter-of-factly explained the problem. He started arguing “it couldn’t be

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that, it had to be this…” I held my temper. Yea, ok, I’m a dumb woman. You’re the guy with the mechanic certificate, just fix it already. When I went back to pick the bike up, his attitude was very different. He apologized for ignoring me, and said that I was exactly right on the problem. He treated me with respect and he earned mine. Bottom line ladies: if you take your bike in for servicing and you don’t get treated right, there are other places out there that would gladly take your business. Let’s look at some maintenance issues, and how they can affect your safety. Please research these issues further on the internet and with your mechanic, and get familiar with your bike. Never be afraid to ask questions. Tires | Never buy a cheap tire gauge, especially one that has a battery. Buy a good quality gauge and keep it on the bike if possible. Check your tires often, the air pressure and the tread. Visually inspect every inch of the tires before each run. A tiny one inch gash in a sidewall can kill you. Incorrect tire pressure can affect your ride, especially if your tire pressure is low. Also check for dry rot. Mileage doesn’t matter – heat and age does. http://www.rattlebars.com/tirewear/index.html Wheels | Always check your wheels. For solid or billet rims, check for cracks or fractures, or for any spots where the tire might be separating. Laced (spoked) wheels, keep them rust-free. Check with your mechanic about making sure the laces are tight. One loose spoke and you’re down. http://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/tech/0802_crup_wire_ wheel_maintenance/viewall.html Chain, Belt or Shaft | isually inspect your chain, sprocket or belt every time you ride. Make sure no debris is wrapped around or caught on the chain or guard. Cabling | Before a ride, visually and physically inspect your brake, throttle, clutch and all cables. Wiggle them, and make sure the fittings are tight. You don’t want your clutch cable coming loose. Trust me. http://www.motionpro.com/motorcycle/articles/view/340/ cable_maintenance_101/ Fluids | Learn how to read your oil. Just making sure it’s full is not enough. Learn what the color changes mean, the viscosity (the density), and what that tells you about what is going on in your engine. Oil is the blood of the machine. You don’t want your engine locking up at 70 MPH. Always

put in the correct octane of gas for your bike… again, from experience. Check your brake fluid often and try to keep the corrosion of the reservoir at a minimum. If your bike is watercooled, always make sure to check your levels of coolant. http://www.motionpro.com/motorcycle/articles/view/340/ cable_maintenance_101/ Battery | now where your battery is and how to get to it. For those of you that don’t ride often, consider getting a Battery Tender to keep a consistent charge. I found that out the hard way. Once a battery goes down, it’s out; new battery time. Spare yourself that expense by getting a tender. Oh yes, and don’t leave your key on no matter how excited you get to go hang out with your friends at a cool restaurant. Did you know you can’t push start a Dyna? Still taking crap for that. http://www.totalmotorcycle.com/maintenance/battery.htm Cleaning | It’s always fun to get out in the sunshine and clean your bike. It’s also a helluva lot of work. And with this Texas summer, forget it. Find a reputable shop that offers cleaning and maintenance services. It’s well worth the cost and they can keep your bike looking new for a long time. Cleaning is maintenance, not just making it pretty. Metal, especially forks, pit if you don’t keep them clean. Ask me, I know. I’m putting chrome lower forks on the Dyna now because the stock Harley ones look terrible. I didn’t do my maintenance! http://www.bccleancycle.com/ (my favorite place to go) Wrecker Services | Always keep a motorcycle towing card (or several) with you or keep the numbers in your phone and if you have a Thunder Roads Texas handy, check the Biker Friendly Listing. Just the other day I picked up a couple of cards and wouldn’t you know I got a call from a friend with a flat on his Softtail looking for a tow. Don’t call just any service if you can help it. Not all companies know how to load a bike or strap it down properly. If you are planning a trip, take the time to research companies along your route. You never know, you might need their service or run across a fellow biker that does. Final thought: No matter if you are a man or woman, you must take responsibility for maintenance very seriously. It doesn’t matter whether you do it yourself or take it to a shop, you have to know your bike and keep it in top condition. The life you save may be someone elses…

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ThunderRoadsTexas.com

EVENTS

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

October 2011

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EVENT

Event Listing

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

OCTOBER m

2nd Airiana Ivy Read DSA Car/Bike Show Benefit ProjectAir.net Fort Worth Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Brownsville to Belize Badass Bike Rally 530.320.5788 Brownsville Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Brownsville

2nd Annual Bulldog Car, Truck & Bike Show 863.255.3308 San Angelo Region: Panhandle Metro: San Angelo

Run For The Border 10 SCRCDelRio.com Del Rio Region: Big Bend Metro: San Antonio

7th Annual Lenses for Learning Motorcycle Paintball Run 903.450.3634 McKinney Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

14th Annual Boo Benefit BooBenefit.org Jefferson Region: Piney Woods Metro: Longview A long time Texas favorite and one of the largest “unsung” rallies we have! Online pre-registration is going on now. And you can purchase your chance to win a 2011 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide with Diamond C Custom Trailer. Vendor spots are going fast, but still available as of going to print this issue. Live music, great bars, loads of vendors, and just plain FUN! And not to mention the great riding roads through the East Texas Piney Woods – just beautiful! Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas!

Harry 14th Annual Hog In 512.450.8239 Willow City Region: Hill Country Metro: Austin MotorMet Car & Bike Show MotorMet.org Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

1-2

Party Hardcore SJHR.com Conroe Region: Piney Woods Metro: Houston 17th SRV Remembrance Ride & Concert SRVRideAndConcert.org Dallas Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

22nd Annual Toker Run 806.665.7707 Borger Region: Panhandle Metro: Amarillo Dallas-Fort Worth Ride For Kids PBTFUS.org Grapevine Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

7-9

O’Fest MC Fun Run stlamb.fxd@gmail.com Alvin Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Take Back Texas Rally TakeBackTexasRally.com Axtell Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Waco NEW State Rally & Fundraiser, hosted by Jim’s Cycle Shop. Entertainment includes six bands playing everything from Classic Rock to Country:. Of course, what biker rally isn’t complete without bike games, vendors, Jello wrestling, auctions, 50/50 drawing, horse shoe tournament, bike show, great food, and more. Pre-register online now. RV spots, vendor spots, and sponsorships available. Come on out, have fun, and support a good cause. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas! Johnson City Pig Roast 2011 JPigRoast.org Johnson City Region: Hill Country Metro: Austin Strokers Dallas 16th Anniversary Party StrokersDallas.com Dallas Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

American Heroes Street Mod Rod Run BrazosValleyStreetBeasts.com College Station Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station Annual Benefit For Wounded Warrior Project WideOpenThrottleRC.org Rosenberg Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Friends Charity Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show 281.330.4867 Friendswood Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Benefit for Marie & Rochelle BrazoriaCountyCavalry.org Brazoria Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston Benefit for Mick & Deb Facebook.com/event.php?eid=225001660880199 Richards Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station Charity Cook Off & Toy Run CruisersTX.com Santa Fe Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston Cycles For A Cure Fun Run CyclesForACure.com Fort Worth Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth Emma’s Bayou Bash EmmasHugs.com Baytown Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston Helping Our Hands Auto, Truck & Motorcycle Benefit Show HelpingOurHands.com Midlothian Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

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October 2011

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EVENTS

Chicken Bread Days Car, Truck & Bike Show MainStreetBowieTX.com Bowie Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Wichita Falls

Benefit for Linda Kay Thibodeaux kmcfadden1209@gmail.com Bacliff Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Rally for the Flag texshewolf@yahoo.com Dallas Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

5-18

1st Annual Texas Hill Country Run 301.751.4327 Bandera Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio

7-8

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November 2011

Wednesday

Friday

Multiple-day events appear on the first day of event. For details on these and other events, see our Event Listing, Page 23.

Thursday

Photo by Black Chair Photography * BlackChairPhoto.com

Tuesday

September 2011

Monday

October 2011

Saturday 2

Sunday

HALLOWEEN

COLUMBUS DAY

20 Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT Houston

7 9

Rum Run Houston

Pumpkin Head Run Spring Branch

Bikers for Bikers Halloween Rally * Magnolia * October 28-30

WHCEMS 566 Charity Ride Houston * October 14-15

Take Back Texas Rally * Axtell * October 7-9

Boo Benefit * Jefferson * October 7-9

Texas Renaissance Festival Opens Runs through November 27 Plantersivlle

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

EvenT Listing

1 Annual WHCEMS 566 Ride for the Homeless Ride.WHCEMS.org Houston-to-San Antonio-to-Austin Metro: Houston Region: Gulf Coast The ‘566 will take place October 14th - 15th beginning in Houston and looping through San Antonio and Austin before bringing the riders back home in a 566 mile round trip. A detailed map can be found online, and riders are encouraged to give any feedback about the route, including suggested stops by contacting us at info@ride.whcems.org. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas!

13-16

Biketoberfest Biketoberfest.com Daytona, FL

October 2011

15 20

Bikin’ for Babies CleburnePC.com Cleburne Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Texoma Harley-Davidson 2nd Annual Car/Bike Show TexomaHD.com Sherman Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Sherman/Denison

Rum Run RenegadeTheWoodlands.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

1st Annual Texas Serenity Run TexasSerenityRun.com Medina Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio

Survivor Run 806.729.4386 Plainview Region: Panhandle Metro: Lubbock

LIPS Steel Horse Trail Ride 2011 TexasLIPS.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

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Benefit for Tinman diggeriraq@gmail.com; joan@jlbb.org Alvin Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Sam’s Jam IV RidersForTheCure.org Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

SPI Bike Fest SPIBikeFest.com South Padre Island Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Brownsville

Waxahachie Fun Run CarShowFreek.net Waxahachie Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Benefit for Mike & Deb Emmett 713.553.1968 Richards Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Houston

Backdraft Dart Fun Run RedKnightsTX4.com Baytown Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Caddo Mills Motor Club Benenfit Motor Show 903.456.4239 Caddo Mills Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Biketoberfest 2011 RiverSideRanch.net WARNING: Adult content website Elmendorf Region: South Texas Metro: San Antonio

Christmas Toy Run LightChristianCenter.com Alvin Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

20-23

8-Nov 27 9

8th Annual Alvin Blue Santa Motorcycle Ride AlvinBlueSanta.org Alvin Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Wounded Warrior Project Ride FaceBook.com/event.php?eid=157032664382370 Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT ThunderRoadsTexas.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston 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. Cohosted by Outlaw Dave. Last party before the Lone Star Rally! Live music, vendors, stage games, door prizes, and MORE! LARGE reserved motorcycleonly parking, with plenty of cage parking, too. Rain or shine… the BEST and longest continually held bike night in Houston!

1st MAP (Military Assistance Program) Run 512.446.6696 Rockdale Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Killeen/Temple

Rumble At the Fort 903.875.9785 Corsicana Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth Texas Renaissance Festival TexRenFest.com Plantersville Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station

EVENTS

8-9

Patriots MC 10th Anniversary Party - Open PatriotsMC.com Fort Worth Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

21-23

Nun Run ChristusFoundation.org Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Wildcat High Octane Car, Cycle & Craft Show GuyerOrchestra.com Denton Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Military Family & Friends Fun Run PorkChopsIceHouseBar.com Point Blank Region: Piney Woods Metro: Houston

... continued

Eagle Riders 5th Annual Biker Rally pete_alvz@yahoo.com Eagle Pass Region: South Texas Metro: San Antonio Wurst Rally on the River 830.625.9961 New Braunfels Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio 2nd Annual Pumpkin Head Run 210.445.2477 Spring Branch Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio Run starts & ends at The Shade Tree Saloon and Grill. First bike out 10:30am; Last bike in 4:30pm. Raffle, Live Band, & Vendors. $10.00 ride fee includes ticket for the “Runners only drawing”. Wear a costume, paint your face like a pumpkin, or make extra stops on the run and get a FREE additional drawing ticket. Proceeds benefit Hill Country Cares and The Guardians of the Children – Hill Country Chapter. For more information call Cricket at 210445-2477. 3rd Annual Cruizin for Christ Car/Bike Show & Cook Off MoorevilleUMC.tripod.com Mooreville Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Waco Hwy 59 Snook Benefit 903.276.5632 Domino Region: Piney Woods Metro: Texarkana

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EVENTS

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

October 2011

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EVENTS Page 24

October 2011

ThunderRoadsTexas.com

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6th DBA Veterans Weekend Car/Motorcycle Show BastropDBA.org Bastrop Region: Hill Country Metro: Austin

12 Breakfast Before Lone Star RedfishRoadhouse.com Hitchcock Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston Join us for breakfast Friday on your way to the Lone Star Rally. Visit our website or Facebook page for more information.

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

April 13-15 TMRA State Rally TMRA.org Comanche Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Abilene

Texas Honor Ride - The Ride TexasHonorRide.org Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston The entire year of fundraising activities culminates in a 200 mile, 4 hour, 600+ motorcycle ride from Houston to San Antonio. The ride is not only for the camaraderie of bikers, but for the organizers to formally hand over the year’s fundraising “check” to those at the Brooke Army Medical Center. For six years now, THR has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to help our Wounded Heroes recuperating at the center. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas! Metro Blue Santa Charity Motorcycle Ride 281.468.6210 Friendswood Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

3-6 4

Operation Military Salute SETexasPGR.org Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

April 12-15 Carts, Bikers & Babes Rally CartsBikersAndBabesRally.com Somerville Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station

Three Sisters Veterans Rally ThreeSistersRally.net Concan Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio

Lone Star Rally LoneStarRally.com Galveston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston We are once again headig to Galveston for our second year of being a major sponsor… and may have an annoucmenet soon about our activities onsite during those four days of craziness! Tons of vendors, cruising down the seawall, revving down The Strand ($10 parking pass required), great bars, various rides around town, inclduing the Outlaw Dave Ranch Ride, Rats Hole Bike Show, tatoo shops & contests, live music, bike giveaway, celebrity bike builders, and MORE!

Hogs 4 Heros Hogs4Heros.com Galveston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Helping Hands Toy Run 214.866.9660 Terrell Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

NEXT YEAR

March 9-18 Daytona Bike Week DaytonaBikeWeek.com Daytona, FL March 16-18 South Texas Motorcycle Show TXBikeShow.com San Antonio Region: Hill Country

May 17-20 The Aspen Cash Rally MotorcycleRally.com Ruidoso, NM June 7-10 Republic of Texas (ROT) Biker Rally ROTRally.com Austin Region: Hill Country Metro: Austin About Our EventListing: Basic Event listings are FREE. Premium Event Listings (bold and up to 75 word description) are only $45/month. Send your event to: events@thunderroadstexas.com. To be included in the print version, information must be received by the 10th of the month prior to the month in which the event is scheduled or the month before you wish a Premium Event Listing to appear. Events must have some motorcycle element. Subscribe to our FREE Web-zine for updates with events that don’t make print, two weeks’ worth of events are provided every week to your email inbox. You can always visit our website to download a list of the “next two weeks” 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.

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Basic Listing is FREE. Upgrade to Premium for only $25/month! Email: Events@ThunderRoadsTexas.com for more information.

October 2011

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EVENTS

NOVEMBER

March 28-April 1 Arizona Bike Week AZBikeWeek.com Scottsdale, AZ

19th Annual Teddy Bear Ride CACCollinCounty.org Frisco Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Lead Sled Fest LeadSledFest.com Coffee City Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Tyler

Metro: San Antonio

10-13

10th Annual Halloween Rally BikersForBikers.com Montgomery Region: Piney Woods Metro: Houston A Houston-area (and beyond) favorite. Held at beautiful, wooded Bikers Park, just north of Magnolia. Activities include poker run, field events, kids events, costume contest, bike show, Saturday night meal, live music, live auction, rifle auction, male/female long distance awards and more. All proceeds benefit bikers in emergency situations. $22 pre-registration includes entry for $50 lottery drawing. At the door is $25. Children under 2 free. Vendors $25, includes electricity. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas!

... continued

17th Annual Blanket Run 361.425.1801 Corpus Christi Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Corpus Christi

HOT Howl-O-Ween Rally TheHOTRally.com Groesbeck Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

28-30

Newton VFD Santa’s Brigade Toy Drive Festival 409.594.3407; 409.383.7261 Newton Region: Piney Woods Metro: Beaumont

27-30

EvenT Listing

Not Just for the Birds!

RIDE

MAP

e know that we aren’t all just motorcycle riders… we have other hobbies. This month we treat the bird watchers, hunters, and nature lovers by highlighting the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge (BNWR). It’s not so much of a ride, as a destination. But inside the refuge, they have an “auto tour” – which we’ve renamed a “ride tour” – of course! The Refuge is a haven for a variety of different types of birds, mammals, reptiles – well just about all forms of wildlife. The feature on the ride is the Big Slough. Slough is simply another term for a swamp. In the winter, the area draws one of the highest Audubon Christmas bird counts in the nation, with more than 200 species. Now, I’m not a birder, so I had to look this one up! During the winter months for more than 100 years, volunteers across the nation traverse nature preserves, refuges, and other areas where birds congregate to do counts. The data collected is used to assess the health of bird populations and to help guide conservation efforts. Now you know, too! With more than 43,000 acres, the BNWR is a “sensory banquet” with experiences described as “the thunder of 40,000 snow geese taking flight, the salty breeze off the Texas Gulf, or the site of a 12-foot alligator loafing on a muddy bank”. While a “refuge”, hunting and fishing is allowed on the grounds. There are public boat ramps, hiking trails covered shelters and observation platforms for sitting and enjoying the scenery, and interpretive stops and displays. In the Big Slough area, you’ll also find a “Discovery Complex” complete with walking tour, discovery center, and information center (not to mention restrooms). The BNWR is just a hop, skip and a jump away from the Lone Star Rally (Galveston, November 3-6). We encourage you to take a couple hours away from the hectic rally scene to enjoy some peaceful nature not far away.

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Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

October 2011

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t makes sense that Galveston Island serves as home to the epic Lone Star Rally (LSR) event that attracts hundreds of thousands of motorcycling visitors. The biker spirit as seafarers of the open road is certainly kin to the early settlers and explorers who have also called Galveston home.

In 2008, Hurricane Ike took a toll on the Island. While canceling would have been easiest, the crew at LSR didn’t want to lose the momentum that culminated in record numbers the year before. Working with Island officials, it was decided to hold the rally in December, providing two months for both sides to get ready for a large mass of bikers. While the rally that year was lighter in attendance, it was full of heart. The event provided a needed financial boost to the Island businesses... to help them rebuild. In fact, the organizers renamed the rally to “The Rally to Rebuild.”

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October 2011

From November 3-6, 2011, the Island becomes a mecca for bikers from around the country to gather. Hosted by the legendary Jay Allen, founder of the World’s Biggest Biker Bar, The Broken Spoke Saloon, with locations at all the major rallies, the entertainment will be non-stop as Jay presents unique motorcycle events which are hallmark hits of the Broken Spoke. This includes the Baker Smoke Down Showdown where participants go head to head in stationary drag style competition, a bike show, fun contests, and more to be announced. This year the Lone Star Rally will debut a renegade style bike show that will surely be on the annual radar of all who love to show off their rides. This event is a ride-in bike show featuring hard core celebrity judges who truly know the art of building and customizing. There will be cash prizes and trophies and more information about the show can be found online. So, if your ride has got what it takes to snag an award, ride on down to the Pier on Saturday morning and strut that scoot. Awards will be given at 2:30pm. Dialing into the pirate spirit of the former shipping hub will be Sons of Anarchy stars, Charlie “Jax” Hunnam and Tommy “Chibs” Flanagan, from the hit TV show on FX Network for a meet and greet. Also appearing will be the stars of TruTV’s hot show Full Throttle Saloon, Michael Ballard

and Angie. Celebrity bike builders making appearances are Rick Fairless of Strokers Dallas and star of TruTVs’ Ma’s Road House; the Martin Bros. of Martin Bros. Bikes; Brigitte Bourget and her team at Bourget’s Bike Works, and Dave Perewitz with daughter Jody, who just captured a Landspeed record at Bonneville becoming the fastest female on a V-Twin! The Lone Star Rally Motorcycle Masquerade Promenade, formally known as the biker promenade, will amp up the 10 year celebration this year as it seeks the most outrageously best dressed bike and rider. The promenade lines up at 4pm and a $500 cash prize will be awarded. Registration is online only. Radio personality Outlaw Dave will be hosting his Outlaw Dave Ranch Ride to benefit the Stevens & Pruett Ranch. It departs Stubbs Harley-Davidson on Saturday morning at 11:00 a.m. It at his “Worldwide Headquarters”, located in the Devil’s Cut Saloon presented by Thunder Roads Texas motorcycle magazine, where the Outlaw Dave Show will be broadcasting live. Tommy “Chibs” Flanagan of the Sons of Anarchy hit TV show on FX will lead the ride with Outlaw Dave. The honorary Lone Star Rally Freedom Ride to benefit Soldiers Angels gathers Friday at 4:00 p.m. at The Spot, on the Seawall, and weaves its way down the Strand to ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Pier 21. Registration is at the rally’s website and PayPal is accepted for the $10 charity ride donation. Registration for the island wide three-day poker run Thursday through Saturday will be at the Sentinels of Freedom booth. The Traveling Tattoo Company at Harbor House Hotel near Pier 21 will feature tattoo artists from around the country and there will be contests and prizes daily hosted by Jay Allen. Fine artist Dave Uhl and his creative team from Uhl Works will meet and greet customers and showcase artwork.

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

Live music Thursday through Sunday will feature super stars from the legendary Sturgis and Daytona motorcycle rallies with Jasmine Cain, Ryan Rolando, and Big Engine rocking the Saengerfest Park stage, along with excellent music from local Houston rock and blues acts. The country music stage will be the place to kick up those honky-tonk heels to the music of top local country acts. A Saturday night concert to be announced will be held on Pier 21. “It’s amazing that in ten years, our weekend rally is near the size of the major week long rallies around the country.

We’ve really evolved into an event that people look forward to all year long. It’s exciting that this beautiful city embraces all of us because we truly embrace Galveston. The manufacturers and vendors also love coming here and interacting with the customers in such a welcoming environment,” said Steve Penland with the Lone Star Rally, “Galveston, Texas, is home to us for sure.” The Lone Star Rally is free to the public: For more information and to register for events visit LoneStarRally. com.

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

October 2011

ThunderRoadsTexas.com

EVENTS

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

October 2011

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One Halloween a trick-or-treater came to my door dressed as ‘Rocky’ in boxing gloves and satin shorts. Soon after I gave him some goodies, he returned for more.

The man, who was a Priest, said, “I am a Father.”

• “Stick your hand in and guess what you’re feeling.”

Lil’ Johnny replied, “My Daddy’s a father and he doesn’t wear his collar like that.”

• “It was so filled and heavy, I had to use TWO hands!!”

The priest looked up from his book and answered, “I am the Father of many.”

• “They’ll suck you dry if they get their teeth in you.”

“Aren’t you the same ‘Rocky’ who left my doorstep a few minutes ago?” I asked.

Lil’ Johnny said, ‘’My Dad has 4 boys, 4 girls and two grandchildren and he doesn’t wear his collar that way!”

“Yes,” he replied, “but now I’m the sequel. I’ll be back three more times tonight too.”

The Priest, getting impatient, said. “I am the Father of hundreds, and went back to reading his book.

This Halloween I met a genuine Fairy that said she would grant me one wish. “I want to live forever,” I said. “Sorry,” said the Fairy, “I’m not allowed to grant wishes like that!”

Lil’ Johnny sat quietly thinking for a while, then leaned over and whispered, “Maybe you should wear a condom, and put your pants on backwards instead of your collar.” Halloween Comments that Sound Dirty but Aren’t • “So... What’d you get in the sack?“

“Fine,” I said, “then I want to die after Congress gets their heads out of their asses!”

• “Once you get under the sheet, start moaning and groaning!!!“

“You crafty bastard,” said the Fairy.

• “Just hop on that broomstick and ride it!“ • “Those small suckers are gone in a few licks!”

Lil’ Johnny got on the bus, sat next to a man reading a book, and noticed he had his collar on backwards. Inquisitive as ever, Lil’ Johnny asked why he wore his collar backwards.

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• “I got the best piece from that house.” • “Quit screwing around on the porch!!!”

• “I bobbed and bobbed, but couldn’t get my mouth around it!” WAYS TO CONFUSE TRICK-OR-TREATERS Give away something other than candy. (Toothpicks, golf balls, bags of sand, etc.) Wait behind the door until some people come. When they get near the door, jump out, wearing a costume, and holding a bag, and yell, “Trick or Treat!” Look at them, scratch your head, and act confused. Fill a briefcase with marbles and crackers. Write on it, “Top Secret” in big letters. When trick-or-treaters come, look around suspiciously, say, “It’s about time you got here,” give them the briefcase, and quickly shut the door. Get about 30 people to wait in your living room. When trickor-treaters come to the door, say, “Come in.” When they do, have everyone yell, “Surprise!” Act like it’s a surprise party.

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ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

October 2011

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ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Biker Friendly

Listed here are businesses that are SERIOUS about serving the Texas Motorcycle Community. The list is set up in categories. Regional and Metro information is included. An “*” means the location is a Thunder Roads Texas distribution point. Visit ThunderRoadsTexas.com to find a full listing of distribution points. Tell them you saw them in Thunder Road Texas!

Accessories & Parts * Stitches 1308 Hwy 6 South Houston, TX 77077 281.558.8572 Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

Bars & Restaurants * Alamo Bar & Grill 7846 Fallbrook Dr Houston, TX 77086 281.537.7647 www.myspace.com/houstonsalamo Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Barbed Rose & Burger Bar 113 Sealy St Alvin, TX 77511 281.585.2272 www.BarbedRose.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Boll Weevils 16003 FM 1236 Needville, TX 77461 979.793.6163 www.Facebook.com/Boll.Weevils Region: Closest Metro: Houston * Concert Pub North 2470 FM 1960 West Houston, TX 77068 281.583.8111 www.theconcertpub.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Curtis Lowe’s Bar 11800 FM 1960 E Huffman, TX 77336 281.324.7400 Find us on Facebook! Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop Bent Rim Grill 657 West Ranch Rd Leakey, TX 78873 830.232.6629 www.friocanyonmotorcycleshop.biz www.bentrimgrill.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio Points Across Texas GOLD Destination * George’s Bar & Grill 2031 Plantation Dr Conroe, TX 77301 Region: Piney Woods Closest Metro: Houston Points Across Texas GOLD Destination * Loading Dock 504 25th St Galveston, TX 77550 409.765.5155 www.theloadingdockbikerbar.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Scooters & Shooters 525 E Hwy 29 Bertram, TX 78605 512.355.8070 Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: Austin * West of the Brazos 23220 Hwy 36 Damon, TX 77430 979.742.3100 www.WestoftheBrazos.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Yankee’s Tavern 8703 Ada Oaks Ln Anderson, TX 77830 936.873.3314 www.yankeestavern.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Bryan/College Station

Dealerships & Shops

* Noah’s Ark Bar & Grill 4438 Boulevard St Bacliff, TX 77518 281.339.2895 www.noahsarkbarandgrill.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Cowboy’s Alamo City H-D 11005 IH 35 North San Antonio, TX 78233 800.397.7875 www.cowboysalamocityharley.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

* Rolling Thunder Bar & Grill 6441 County Rd 2173 Fluvanna, TX 79517 325.573.HAWG (4294) www.rollingthunderbarandgrill.com Region: Panhandle Closest Metro: Lubbock

* Cycle Heaven 3770 Hwy 69 N Lufkin, TX 75904 936.634.8404 www.cycleheaventx.com Region: Piney Woods Closest Metro: Tyler

* RPM’s Bar 26210 FM 2978 Magnolia, TX 77354 713.557.1103 Region: Piney Woods Closest Metro: Houston

* Harley-Davidson of Kingwood 111 Northpines Dr Kingwood, TX 77339 281.358.0457 www.kingwoodharley.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Harley-Davidson of Waco 4201 S Jack Kultgen Expy Waco, TX 76706 254-753-0393 www.hdwaco.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Waco * Houston Motorsports North 9550 FM 1960 West Houston, TX 77070 281.890.2020 www.houstonyamaha.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Javelina Harley-Davidson 29078 I-10 West Boerne, TX 78006 800-860-9696 www.javelinaharleydavidson.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio * Legacy Harley-Davidson 12100 W Hwy 80 East Odessa, TX 79765 800.788.6921 www.legacyh-d.com Region: Big Bend Closest Metro: Midland/Odessa * Longhorn Harley-Davidson 2830 West I-20 Grand Parairie, TX 75052 972.988.1903 www.longhornhd.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Ft Worth * Mancuso Harley Davidson - Crossroads 12710 Crossroads Park Dr Houston, TX 77065 281.970.9700 www.mancusocrossroads.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

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Biker Friendly * Motorcycle Tire Shop 1917 S Hackberry San Antonio, TX 78210 210.533 BIKE (2453) www.motorcycle-superstore.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio * Phantom Rider Choppers 6535 West Hwy 46 New Braunfels, TX 78132 830.228.4606 www.phantomriderchoppers.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio * Potterosa Cycles & ATVs 19447 FM 1485 New Caney, TX 77357 832.971.3728 Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Southern Metal Choppers 11116 Middle Fiskville Rd, Ste E Austin, TX 78753 512.833.5044 www.southernmetalchoppers.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: Austin * Team Mancuso Powersports Southwest 7537 Southwest Fwy Houston, TX 77074 713.995.9944 www.tmpsw.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Thunder Alley Cycles 416 NE Wilshire Blvd Burleson, TX 76028 817.295.0955 www.thunderalleycycles.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Ft Worth

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* Yamaha of San Antonio 15664 I-35 Selma, TX 78154 210.655.2625 www.kentpowersports.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

Entertainment/Bands * Mean Gene Kelton 901 N Gaillard Baytown, TX 77520 713-866-4872 www.meangenerocks.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

Insurance & Attorneys * Ball Insurance 416 S Main St Highlands, TX 77562 800.444.7014 www.ballins.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Farrar & Ball Law Firm; Law Tigers 1010 Lamar, Ste 1600 Houston, TX 77002 713.221.8300 www.lawtigers.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Insurance Lady Agency 642 W Rhapsody, Ste A San Antonio, TX 78216 210.403.2216 www.insuranceladyinc.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio Walker Texas Lawyer 1924 Portsmouth

Houston, TX 77098 713.552.1117 www.walkertexaslawyer.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

Lodging & Campgrounds * D’Rose Inn & Cabins Highway 83/Market St Leakey, TX 78873 830.232.5246 www.droseinn.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio Points Across Texas GOLD Destination DUBL-C Guest House (Gastehaus Schmidt Properties) Kerrville area: Located on Hwy 39 between Ingram & Hunt Ingram, TX 866.427.8374 http://www.fbglodging.com/properties/129/ Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio SPECIAL: Stay 2 nights, get 3rd FREE

Motorcycle Towing * Dragonstar Motorcycle Transportation PO Box 444 Bryan, TX 77806 281.935.8890 www.getaride.net Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Bryan/College Station Mission Wrecker 4535 FM 1516 North Converse, TX 78109 210.341.0333 www.missionwrecker.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

Continued... Riding Gear/Leather * Moto Liberty - Dallas 11441 N Stemmons Fwy, Ste 201 Dallas, TX 75229 972.243.5995 www.motoliberty.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Ft Worth * PitStop 13028 Hwy 21 West Austonio, TX 75835 936.661.7518 Region: Piney Woods Closest Metro: Bryan/College Station * The Hog Pound 13710 RR 12, #4 Wimberley, TX 78676 512.847.3444 www.thehogpound.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: Austin

Miscellaneous * Barry Claffey - Mullis A/C Houston, TX 281.468.5819 Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston Outlaw Dave Productions PO Box 25028 Houston, TX 77265 Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

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ThunderRoadsTexas.com

EVENT

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

October 2011

Page 37

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

October 2011

Page 39