Well, here we are, starting the hottest and wettest time of the year, Summertime in Florida. 90+ degrees every day, 90% humidity but let me tell you, the best time to ride is at night when the weather is just about perfect! There are even a few pockets of cooler air when riding at night that might even give you a little chill. Be safe while riding this time of the year, find as much shade as possible, don’t drink too much alcohol between stops and BE SURE to drink water every time you stop! Hydration is a must when you are sweating as much as we do in this Florida heat! I know there are a lot of “NEW FLORIDAIANS” so let them know how it is here in the summer. It will rain around 4-6pm almost every day, why…. We don’t know it just does LOL and it might only be raining on your side of the street and bone dry on the other side, I have honestly seen that before. Of course, get your hurricane prep boxes ready and glace at the news now and again to see if a hurricane is headed our way or not. Welcome to Florida, avoid sunburns, ant bites and dehydration!
Full Throttle has two events coming up in June and July and they are going to be a lot of
fun. We don’t try and set up “parking lot events” in these summer months, but we do try and set up rides! Our First ride coming up is the 5 Bridge Poker Run on June 22nd. This is always an awesome ride that goes over the 5 major bridges in the Tampa Bay Area and ends down in Ellenton at the Winghouse. We have partnered up with the WCFR (West Coast Florida Riders) for this ride and we are hoping for a big turn out! We would like to see at least 200 poker hands on this ride so if you are looking for a great ride and a reason to go over the Skyway Bridge, here it is! Last year first place took home about $600 I believe! This event starts at Moramoto in Tampa on Dale Mabry Highway. All the info is on our website or on the Facebook event page. The next event we have coming up is the annual SOAKED AND SORE ASS POKER RUN! This is going to be a great ride also that loops around the state of Florida and heads back to the West Coast This year. We are starting at Circle S BBQ in Hudson, heading to the East Coast, down around Okeechobee and ending at Bert’s Black Widow Harley in Port Charlotte. This way the loop makes it, so you have a not so long exit strategy to getting back home Sunday or Monday. This is one of my favorite rides of the year and I know a lot of people may not like this route this year, but we had to do something a little different as we can not keep going to the same 4-5 places each year. I’m trying to make this more of a ride than a destination like it has been in the past. The ride this year brings you from the Gulf, to forests, to the East Coast, near the biggest Lake in the State and down a great tree canopy road that I personally can’t wait to see. Enjoy the ride, and I hope to see you all at either of our two big rides.
Did you Know?
2 0 2 4 .... The Diva Angels is celebrating 19yrs as a National, ALL FEMALE, riding group! Have you thought about being a part of this amazing group of talented women?
The Diva Angels is one of most recognized West Coast female riding group of all time! A motorcycle GROUP for women that ride motorcycles. We are a diverse group woman who have a love of motorcycling, share a special bond and camaraderie that is solely unique to women. We are a true sisterhood who support one another and live our mission. We
would love for you to come ride with us!
Did you know that 1 in 5 every motorcycle owner is female? YES!! 24 percent of Gen X motorcycle owners are women, and 28 percent of Gen Y motorcycle owners are women! Whether it’s for freedom, adventure, confidence, independence, or community, women are taking to motorcycles and joining women riding groups every day! So why not join the Diva Angels?
Women on motorcycles are powerful! We Ride!
We support charitable organizations! We raise funds for the less fortunate. We socialize. We support our community.
We are female motorcyclist and enthusiasts who are interested in riding together, having camaraderie, and building strong friendships!
The Pasco Chapter hosts a monthly ride, raises money for charitable causes, donates time to help in our community, always celebrating each other and our sister chapters! Join us today! For more information, you will find us on all social media sites @DivaAngelsPasco and check out all chapters at http://www.divaangels.org to find the local chapter near you; email us at divaangelspc@gmail.com today! We are a 501c (7) not for profit organization. Ride safe and rubber side down, COME RIDE WITH US!
Angela DiBlasi“TANgie”Media Director
It was about 7pm Sunday May 5th, 2024 on Gandy bridge. Heading eastbound between St Petersburg Fl. and Tampa Bay Fl., I saw a brother stopped on the shoulder. By himself. Helmet on ground. Head looking down. His Ducati 1199 up. A helmet on the ground is the international rescue signal of the biker code123. If you observe a biker on the road with the helmet on the ground, you should stop and bring him help. All seemed ok but something told me to stop. Named Orlando aka “Orly” our conversation went as follows;
Me; “Are you ok bro?”
Orly; Looking at the ground still and pointing at what looked like skid marks he said “My buddy died right here on this spot last night”
My heart sank. I was speechless. What to say in this situation? Flashbacks and memories of my tour in Baja Mexico when I found my best friend on the ground and … lifeless. My mind was all over and my heart was racing.
Me: “I’m so sorry bro. Do you need anything? How long have you been here? What happened?”
Orly; “I’m ok. Thanks. I been here for 3 hours now. Looks like he tried to pass someone and it did not go as planned.”
As I looked down observing the skid marks leading to what seemed to be one of the points of impact on the concrete barrier, it became clear this was a bad one. Are there ever any “good” ones? From that point the skid marks continued showing the likely mangled bike’s trajectory to the other side about 40 yards away. At the end was a large pitch-dark black spot on the road. I suspect by all indications and as reported, this Kawasaki ZX14 went up in flames.
Orly looking back at me says; “We just never know do
we? And we just keep doing it.”
Me; “Yeah man. I can’t stop. I just can’t. It’s my oasis. Do you want to head out bro and clear your mind?”
Orly; “Nah. Thanks man”
That’s when I knew the man needed alone time on top of the 3 hours he had already spent there. We exchanged numbers and agreed to ride together one day.
I don’t know about you but these types of circumstances always trigger deep reflection within me. If I am honest, much “needed” reflection too! Needless to say, my ride to my next favorite stop at the Epicurean Lounge in Tampa was pretty defensive. As I reflected, still unaware of the rider’s identity, I concluded this rider must have been one solid guy. He had to. Causing a loyal friend paying his respects by standing for three hours in the spot he died certainly points in that direction. If I live my life and a few good souls pay respects like that for me, I think I will have lived right. I still got some work to do. Don’t we all?
As it turns out, I found through my exchange with Orly the rider who passed that Saturday night was American mixed martial artist Geane Herrera aka “La Pulga” (The Flea). It has been reported that Geane Carlos Herrera, May 27, 1990 – May 18, 2024 was an American mixed martial artist who competed in the Flyweight division.
He is probably best known for his stint in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Herrera made his professional mixed martial arts debut in March 2011. He competed primarily for regional organizations in the Southeastern United States where he amassed an undefeated record of 8–0, before signing with the UFC on the heels of a first round finish of Josh Rave in July 2014.
Herrera made his promotional debut against Ray Borg on August 8, 2015 at UFC Fight Night 73. He lost the fight by unanimous decision. Herrera was tabbed as a short notice replacement to face Joby Sanchez on December 11, 2015 at The Ultimate Fighter 22 Finale, where he filled in for Justin Scoggins. After a back-and-forth two rounds, Herrera earned a TKO finish in the final minute of the second round. Herrera next faced Ali Bagautinov on June 18, 2016 at UFC Fight Night 89. He lost the fight via unanimous decision. Herrera faced Ben Nguyen on November 27, 2016 at UFC Fight Night 101. He lost the fight via unanimous decision and was subsequently released from the UFC.
A fighter spirit never ever gives up. Over a year removed from his release, Herrera would go on to face Darren Mima at ACB 85 on April 21, 2018. He won the fight via first-round submission. In 2019, Herrera participated in BKFC tryouts and received a contract to the organization. He was scheduled to make his debut against Abdiel Velazquez at BKFC 8 on October 19, 2019. However, the bout did not materialize due to an unknown reason. Herrera eventually made his debut on July 23, 2021 at BKFC 19. He faced Abdiel Velazquez and won the fight via TKO in the second round.
Orly tells me he trained with Geane. Knew him for about 10 years and helped buy a mini bike for Geane’s son. “Geane was all in at all times. No holding back in life. He loved life full force. We loved riding together. We helped
each other be safe. We had this bond which we felt free to give each other warnings to ride safer.” Orly told me.
“We had this bond which we felt free to give each other warnings to ride safer.” That my good friends is true authentic brotherhood (sisterhood). The kind of bond we should all aim for in our friendships. This is not about “policing” each other or nagging. It’s about looking out for each other. If someone gives you a tip you need to see it for what it is “good intentions” and welcome it regardless. If you can’t understand that or if you are the type who is unteachable, un-coachable then you will likely finish like a stat.
This encounter caused me to reflect carefully about my riding. I reconsidered areas of improvements. It also triggered hard convos with dear brothers who I love riding with as well; “I say this to you because you matter to me brother. I want to ride for years to come still with you and
share some good laughs. I don’t want to stand on a curb for three hours because I lost you buddy. Not one of us want to.”
If you ride and you read this, please take heed. I am certain both, Geane as well as Orly would throw a few punches at anyone today talking cocky and lightly about riding safely. Herrera leaves behind a 16-year-old son, 3 months pregnant girlfriend, his parents and siblings. Herrera was a proud Colombian-American. His family has launched a GoFundMe to assist with funeral expenses; Fundraiser by Melisa Herrera : Support Geane's Family in Their Time of Grief (gofundme.com). So far about $25,000.00 has been raised.
God speed. Night Train: www.facebook.com/floridanighttrain
Source: Internet, Orlando (Orly).
© Photos online and partly by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC/ Zuffa LLC via Getty Images, BKFC IG, Orly.
The Bert’s family of motorcycle dealerships is thrilled to announce the newest addition to their esteemed family. Bert’s Black Pearl Indian & Triumph will be located at Ben C. Pratt/Six Mile Cypress Parkway between Michael G. Rippe Parkway and U.S. 41. Bert’s is poised to deliver an exhilarating approach to these iconic motorcycle brands. The dealership will be open under its new moniker mid to late summer offering an unparalleled experience to enthusiasts in the region.
“At Bert’s, it's always about the people. Our dealerships feel more like clubhouses, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie,” remarked Bert King, CEO, and Owner. The 15,000-square-foot location, situated just west of Sun Harvest Citrus, will continue to uphold the tradition of excellence synonymous with the Bert’s name. Bert King, CEO, and Owner expressed, “I am honored to represent Indian and Triumph as these two brands have a rich heritage and class A motorcycles.” This sentiment reflects Bert’s commitment to preserving the legacy and prestige associated with these renowned brands, ensuring that enthusiasts continue to experience the pinnacle of craftsmanship and innovation.
The Bert’s brand is renowned throughout Florida for its commitment to exceptional customer and employee experiences. Cape Coral native Gil Gibson, COO and Owner, emphasized, “This new venture will embody our unwavering dedication to delivering Kick-Ass Customer Experiences. Enthusiasts of the Indian and Triumph brands in Southwest Florida deserve nothing less than the distinctive Bert’s experience.”
Bert King had a dream to trade in his extensive experience in automotive retail and turn to the world of Harley-Davidson and motorcycles. He is the man behind Bert’s Black Widow Harley-Davidson in Port Charlotte, Florida, and Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Da-
vidson in St. Pete/Clearwater. He is passionate about enriching the communities the stores serve. Through their 501c3 charity, Bert’s Salute to America Foundation, they actively contribute to local veteran and first responder needs, along with providing vital hurricane relief efforts. In 2015, Bert handpicked Gil Gibson as his partner due to his successful track record of running dealerships in SW Florida and the following he has in the motorcycle community. Together they also run two of the most successful Riding Academy’s in the country. “Introducing folks to our sport in a safe and fun manner is one of the best parts of my job!” according to Bert. The addition of Bert’s Black Pearl Indian & Triumph signifies a new chapter in the Bert’s legacy, promising an unparalleled blend of passion, service, and commitment to excellence.
Motorcycle enthusiasts can look forward to an extraordinary experience as they embark on their journey with Bert’s.
For media inquiries, please contact: Peri Bluemer Engagement & Marketing Officer peri@bertshd.com 239-410-6052
About Bert’s Family of Harley-Davidson Dealerships: The Bert’s family of Harley-Davidson Dealerships is renowned for its unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences. With a passion for motorcycles and a dedication to community enrichment, Bert’s dealerships offer more than just bikes; they provide a lifestyle. Through their charitable foundation, Bert’s Salute to America Foundation, they actively support local veterans, first responders, and communities in need.
Verge Motorcycles begins retail rollout in the US – will open two stores in California
Verge Motorcycles will open its first U.S. stores in Los Angeles and San Jose, California. The company believes California is the perfect place in North America to launch the rollout of its new direct to consumer retail format. Verge’s store strategy was developed by George Blankenship, a visionary who contributed to the success of both Apple and Tesla retail stores.
European technology company, Verge Motorcycles is opening its first two retail stores in the United States. The first store will open at Westfield Century City Shopping Center in Los Angeles on June 1st. Verge’s second store will open at Westfield Valley Fair Mall in San Jose on June 6th.
Verge Motorcycles’ international retail strategy is being driven by technology visionary George Blankenship, who was instrumental in developing Apple and Tesla’s highly successful, ground-breaking showrooms. Blankenship’s excellent retail networks and industry experience will play an important role as the electric motorcycle pioneer opens its first U.S. stores.
“I see the same potential in Verge as I did at Apple two decades ago and Tesla one decade ago when those companies set out to completely redefine their industries. I want Verge to be positioned wherever lots of people are spending time on a regular basis finding new things they might be surprised to see. Westfield Century City is one of the best shopping centers in the world, making it a perfect place for us to start our store operations in the United States,” says Blankenship, Verge’s Chief Revenue Officer.
New innovations attract interest in the most electrified state in the U.S.
Verge Motorcycles believes the West Coast exhibits all the right conditions to successfully launch its U.S. business. Motorcycling is popular in the region, and residents there have always been early adopters of innovative technologies. California also has the most extensive electric vehicle charging network in the country. In June of last year, Verge confirmed its plan to utilize Tesla’s NACS charging connector which means all bikes from day-one will be able to utilize the expansive Tesla Supercharger network.
“The United States is already seen as one of our most important markets. Many of the pre-orders for our bikes have come from the western region of the U.S. and California consumers in particular are widely known for appreciating and adopting new innovations. Our new stores in Los Angeles and San Jose will begin the rollout of our Verge experience to as many American motorcycle enthusiasts as possible,” said Pekka Parnanen, Chief Operating Officer of Verge USA.
Verge Motorcycles is known for its futuristic design, class-leading performance and unique in-wheel motor powertrain, but the company has also shaken up the entire motorcycle industry with its most recent technology releases. In November, at the LA Auto Show, Verge launched its’ new Starmatter platform, which brings software updates, sensor technology, artificial intelligence and an advanced user interface to motorcycling for the first time. At CES in Las Vegas, Verge announced an update to its flagship model with Starmatter Vision features, including multiple cameras and high-resolution radar, making Verge TS Ultra the first motorcycle equipped with the sense of sight.
Verge motorcycles are available for pre-orders at www.vergemotorcycles.com
For more information and interview requests, please contact: press@vergemotorcycles.com
Press images
Global Newsroom
Verge Motorcycles develops and manufactures the world’s most advanced electric superbikes. With its patented motor technology and innovative design, Verge challenges conventional ways of thinking with the clear goal of creating the world’s best electric motorcycles from the ground upnot a motorcycle that looks like yesterday, but a motorcycle that feels like the future.
