THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OF IOWA www.thunderroadsiowa.com P.O. Box 29 Kimballton, Iowa 51543 OWNER/EDITOR Vernon Schwarte (712) 249-5630 vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
EVENT CORRESPONDENCE/SALES Eryka Driscoll Eastern Iowa 563-506-0389 eryka@thunderroadsiowa.com Susan Mast SC/SE Iowa 319-931-4546 susan@thunderroadsiowa.com Richard (Murph) and Annette Murphy West Central Iowa 641-524-4808 vizslaboots@yahoo.com Harv and Sue Hunter Central Iowa 515-205-7410 harv@thunderroadsiowa.com Mark Swearingen Council Bluffs/Omaha Metro 402-651-2471 mark@thunderroadsiowa.com Bob Colbert Knoxville 515-579-1343 thomasrcolbert@yahoo.com
Letter from the Editor ............................4 State Line Rally ..................................... 6 99 County Tour ......................................8 Biker Friendly Listing ..........................10 CMA ......................................................12 Road Ramblings ..................................13 HD Dealer Show Continued ................14 Calendar ...............................................16 Girls of Thunder...................................18 From the Woman’s Seat ......................19 COIR......................................................19 Will Ride to Eat ....................................20 Joker’s Wild .........................................21 Military Rider ........................................22 Thunder Cam .......................................23 Knoxville AMA Races ..........................25 Blast From the Past .............................28 TRMI Events Listing ............................30 CONTRIBUTORS Netty Kawecki Copy Editor Nate Ullrich natanic@hotmail.com
David McCoy Mason City 641-420-1171 david@thunderroadsiowa.com
Craig & Lynnette Little-Will Ride to Eat craig@thunderroadsiowa.com
Humphrey Western Iowa 712-592-1720
Tony Darveau Carroll Cycle Center tonypa@carrollcycle.com
Jenn Chess Des Moines Jenn@thunderroadsiowa.com
NATIONAL FOUNDERS Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon 1421 Chapmansboro Road Chapmansboro, TN 37035 Office: (615) 792-0040 Fax: (615) 792-7580 thunderroadsfounders@yahoo.com
Monica Smithwick Sioux City 757-615-2398 Monica@thunderroadsiowa.com
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Our winter plans entail being out and about as much as possible. We have already been to and set up at the first swap meet we could find of the season. It was in Sioux Falls, not Iowa we know, but we knew there would be a ton of northwestern Iowa folks there, and that held true. We had a great time, found some cool parts we have been The entire year of 2012 is just about past us, hard to believe looking for, and got to meet a ton more bikers in another it, but it is true. A ton of things have shaken out in the part of the world. It just goes to show that even as snow world this year on multiple levels, but we are still here, flies, bikers do not hibernate, they just look for interesting riding on, living the dream. Things have been interesting inside things to do. We want to meet more people, and find this past year both personally and professionally, not to more supporters of the magazine, and in the winter time, mention events around the country and the world, swap meets and bike shows are the ticket. Come but that is cool. We survived and are raring to on out and see us, pick up the latest copy of the go head first into 2013! Some exciting things magazine, m find some treasures, and just have a are coming up this next year, and we sure good g ol’ time! cannot wait to get out on the road again. The whole crew here at Thunder Roads Magazine Check out the event listing on the inside back of Iowa would like to wish everyone a Merry cover area. It is pretty sparse now compared Christmas, Happy New Year, and hope for to the summer time listing, but that is to be safe travels, lots of biker gifts, and plenty of expected. If you know of confirmed dates and time with loved ones. Enjoy the season! locations for 2013 events, shoot an email to vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com v and we will A huge “thank you” goes out to the advertisers get g it added to the list. People cannot show up for their support of our efforts. Without them, at the events if they do not know what is going we would not be able to share our work with on! on you. Please remember to frequent their shops and stores for your Christmas As always, be safe, have a blessed holiday shopping needs. Don’t forget to tell them season, Merry Christmas, and see you around Thunder Roads sent ya! We rely on them the next curve! to support our beloved magazine, and they rely on us to help get the word out. Vernon
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ON THE COVER This month we have the sexy anti-elf Ashley Swafford perched on top of Zoe’s unique Pink Street Glide. The shot was taken at Carroll Cycle Center. Ashley works at the Piranha Club in Carroll where she can get you a drink and break your heart, stop in to say hey! All rights reserved. All content is covered by copyright and ownership of said right is retained by Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa. Photographs may be purchased on www.thunderroadsiowa.com Neither magazine or website materials may be reproduced, distributed, altered or posted to any other websites without the express written permission of Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa LLC. 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 Iowa Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa LLC, Thunder Publishing LLC. Publisher does not promote the abuse of alcohol or other drugs, advocate any unsafe practices, or encourage breaking of any laws.
The little town of Keosauqua sits in the southeast region of Iowa, and for folks around the area, the State Line Rally has been a staple for bikers around the area for years. The rest of Iowa, however, might not have heard much about this amazing party, but after running over 20 years strong, this shindig has proven to be a worthwhile get away. The 3rd weekend in September marked the dates for this year’s rally, which is also known as the End of Summer Rally, and temps in the 80’s made a great weekend for partying. The event features live music both Friday and Saturday nights, with classic rock band Blackfoot as the weekend’s headliner on Saturday. Other events keep the festivities going all weekend with rodeo games, sled pulls, pickle licking contest, a bike show, and evening rides through the area’s scenic parks. Camping is available on grounds for both tents and RV’s, and plenty of food and beer is on hand to soothe a person’s cravings. The party will again be held in September next year, and you can keep tabs on their web-site at www.statelinerally.net Nate Ullrich www.lyfebehindbars.com
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last ice age, much of the Mississippi Valley near Dubuque County was bypassed by glacial flows, which flattened the surrounding land in eastern Illinois, 99 Counties to tour on the bike, 99 counties to tour, take one down, drive on around, 68 counties to tour on Wisconsin, and western Iowa, leaving the Driftless the bike. A few years back, a summer riding goal was Area unusually rugged. Eastern Dubuque County is markedly different from the western portion in that its to ride through each one of the counties of Iowa, and topography is very uneven. The city of Dubuque and what was found was a wealth of interest and beauty. surrounding areas Each month we will revisit each county as a featured adjacent to the article. We will tell you about new things to see, Mississippi River places to ride, and give you a little spark of touring have many steep curiosity for our state of Iowa. hills, bluffs, and ravines. Also, the Dubuque County eastern portion is more heavily w wooded than tthe west, which is mostly rolling fa farmland. This m makes for some w wonderful riding in the county on ssome of the two lane back roads that spider web the la landscape. Don’t be afraid to get on some of the local rroads for some fun hills and curves that open up to b beautiful views.
99 Counties on the Wall
O One of the interesting stops on one of the two lane rroads is Crystal Lake Cave. In 1868 lead miners d drilled 40 feet into the ground to find traces of a rich le lead vein. In this process they found very little lead, b but instead discovered a natural geological wonder of matchless beauty. In 1932, the late Bernard Markus, Dubuque County is located in eastern Iowa, on opened the cave to the public, naming it Crystal Lake the third tier of counties down from the north, and bordered by the great Mississippi river. It is split north Cave. Today, Crystal Lake Cave is the longest “living” show cavern in the state of Iowa, and growing every to south by Highway 20, with various other local and state roads winding along the countryside. It is named day. 5 Minutes South of Dubuque, Iowa on Highway for Julien Dubuque, the first European settler of Iowa, 52 (563) 556-6451 info@crystallakecave.com and an early lead miner. As it is a river town, much There are many notable spots outside of the city of of the population of over 90,000 Dubuque out in the county worth people reside in the county seat a stop. Balltown is just north of Dubuque, but the area also of Dubuque and is one of the has expanse agricultural area highest points in Iowa. Arguably and is quite scenic for travel. one of the most scenic with Dubuque County is widely-known expansive views in about every for its impressive bluffs along direction and an amazing view the Mississippi River, which of the river. It is also reported run along the entire length of that Jessie James, as in the the county’s riverbanks. These outlaw from the 1800’s not form part of Iowa’s Coulee the bike builder or Jackyl lead Region, otherwise known as singer, and his gang used to the Driftless Area. During the
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make Balltown a regular stop. A popular food stop and historical point, Breitbach’s Country Dining , still had a lot of photos and memorabilia of him there until ruined in a fire. This place alone has a sordid history of being the oldest restaurant and bar in Iowa, but it has burned and been rebuilt multiple times. Dyersville on the western edge of the county has a few different claims to fame. This is where the movie “Field of Dreams” was filmed, and the ball diamond is still there. The National Farm Toy Museum is here and worth a stop if you dig farm toys. TorqueFest, an event for old bikes and hot rods has been in Maquoketa the last few years, but is being relocated to Dubuque t first the w weekend in May of 2 2013. S Some of t popular the r riding stops in include: K Knickers, a popular b in bar d downtown D Dubuque, the Handle Bar just north of Dubuque in Durango is a popular riding stop. The Wharf just south of Dubuque, is right along the river, and a popular watering hole for bikes and boats. There is no shortage of places to stop and wet your whistle or partake in some vittles. There is a plethora of things to see and do in Dubuque County. Take a journey and hit a back road and enjoy! Next month will be Emmet County in north central Iowa. Photos courtesy of Dubuque Area Chamber and Tourism, other sources available upon request. Vernon
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Biker Friendly Directory Crispy’s Biker Apparel
It’s important for you to Cedar Rapids, Iowa www.bncbikerwear.com know who your friends 319-241-0916 are out on the road! The Biker Friendly Directory Dealers is a list of establishments throughout Iowa that want Baxter Cycle you to know that they’re 311 4th Street here for YOU. Whether Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2351 it’s a bike dealer, service www.baxtercycle.com shop, restaurant, bar or any other type of business Carroll Cycle Center that welcomes our biking 1327 Plaza Dr Carroll, Iowa community, you can count 712-792-1610 on our family of friends to www.carrollcycle.com always welcome you in. Harley-Davidson & The staff here at Thunder Dillon Brothers Motorsports Roads greatly appreciates 174th and Maple Omaha, NE 68116 our advertiser’s support 402-289-5556 each month. WE WOULD www.dillon-brothers.com NOT EXIST WITHOUT Fenders Cycle and Motorsport THEM! So please give 1109 E Army Post Road Des Moines, Iowa 50315 them the support that they 515-256-9062 truly deserve for being www.fenderscycle.com with us & drop by to see Hawkeye Harley-Davidson them for a visit. Let them Coralville, Iowa I-80 Exit 240 know that you saw them 319-545-7495 www.hawkeyehd.com here in Thunder Roads. If Open 7 days per week you know a business that Loess Hills Harley-Davidson would like to advertise 57408 190th Street in Thunder Roads Iowa Pacific Junction IA 51561 712-622-4000 Biker Friendly Places, loesshillshd.com please email vernon@ thunderroadsiowa.com Nishna Valley Cycle
Bail Bonds
HONDA – YAMAHA – KTM Atlantic, Iowa 50022 1-888-577-6406 www.nishnavalleycycle.com
Iowa Bail Bonds 200 4th Street Des Moines, Iowa 50309 515-243-4411
Werner Cycle Works 14410 Frontier Road Exit 440 I-80 Omaha, NE 68138 402-894-3050 www.wernercycleworks.com
Biker Accessories Backroads Biker Leather Shoppe 305 N Main Street Everly, Iowa 51338 712-834-2999
Whipp Sales and Service, Inc 701 S 8th Street Clarinda, Iowa 51632 1.800.477.0195
www.whippsales.com
Food and Drink
www.backroadsbikerleathershoppe.com
CoolBikerStuff.com 1224 Celebrity Drive Marcus, Iowa 51035 Mention TRMI at Events for a Free Gift
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14th Street Tavern 3418 East 14th Street Des Moines, Iowa 515-266-3446 M-F 8-2 Sat 10-2 and Sun 11-2
Beaver Hut Pub Happiness is a Wet Beaver 307 East 7th Logan, Iowa 51546 712-644-6100
Beer Barn and Grill 226 State Street Kirkman, Iowa 51447 712-766-3395 Open Mon 4, Tue-Sun at 11 BJ’s Bar & Billiards 110 Ida Waterloo Iowa Home of Full Throttle Thursdays 319-234-9810 Book Em Dano’s 33 S Main Street Denison, Iowa 51442 712-263-9818 Mon-Sat 4-2 Dancers Nightly 5-1:30 Boxer Barbeque 722 Creek Top Council Bluffs, Iowa 51503 712-325-4227 Tuesday - Saturday 11 - 8 pm www.boxerbbq.com Buck Snort 113 4th Street Neola, Iowa 51559 712-485-9090 The Buck Snort on Facebook
Good Sons 2815 Beaver Ave Ste 102 Des Moines, Iowa 515-681-5375 Goozman’s Westside Bar & Grill Harlan, Iowa 712-755-2259 Goozman’s Westside on Facebook Haverhill Social Club 202 1st Street Haverhill, Iowa 50120 641-475-3321 Mon-Sat 10-2, Sun 12-12 Huffy’s Mule Barn 802 Main Street Anita, Iowa 50020 712-762-9995 www.huffysmulebarn.com Keasey’s Hideaway Lounge 911 Court Street Adel, Iowa 50003 515-993-3001 Lampe’s Pub 608 Iowa Avenue Dunlap, Iowa 51529 712-643-5781 Open 7 days a week at 11 AM Midway Tavern 206 1st Street Soldier, Iowa 712-884-2230 www.midwaytavernsoldier.com
Captains Quarters 807 Main Adel, Iowa 50003 M-F 2-12, Sat 10-2, Sun 12-12 515-993-4417
Montgomery Street Pub 207 East Montgomery Street Creston, Iowa 50801 641-782-2165
Chop’s Old Bank 400 6th Street Waukee, Iowa 50263 515-987-3000
O’Hara’s Steakhouse & Lounge 501 Ann Street Irwin, Iowa 51446 712-782-4545 O’Hara’s Steakhouse on Facebook
Do Drop Inn 403 3rd Avenue Under the Water Tower Jamaica, Iowa 50128 515-314-0783
Off Sides Pizza 1119 Thomas Street Redfield, Iowa 50233 515-833-2900
Doc’s Roadhouse 309 East 7th Street Logan, Iowa 51543 712-644-3636 Open 365-8 am to Close Double R Bar and Grill Quick Ricks Rib Joint 209 East Erie (Highway 30) Missouri Valley, Iowa 51555 712-600-6441
Papa Joe’s 117 South 6th Street Missouri Valley, Iowa 51555 712-642-9015 Phil’s 20oz Prime Rib Friday Nights 9956 Swanson Blvd Clive, Iowa 515-270-0959
Excuses Bar 405 Main Street Malvern, Iowa 51551 712-624-8233 Excuses Bar on Facebook
Pines Steakhouse Oinkers Lounge & Grill 1500 E 7th Street Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-243-3606 M-F 11AM-, S-S 4PM-
Foxys Bar 108 East Jefferson Osceola, Iowa 50213 641-342-3700 Visit us at facebook FOXYS
HARLAN-Pizza Ranch 613 Court Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-755-2262 Open 7 Days a Week
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Red Oak Tap 419 E. Reed Red Oak, Iowa 51566 712-623-4788 Riverside Tavern 450 E Main St Lehigh, Iowa 50557 515-359-9998 Email:riversidetap@gmail.com Sambetti’s Bar and Grill 1430 2nd Avenue Des Moines, Iowa 50314 515-245-9780 Mon-Sat 11a-2a, Sun 11a-7p Screaming Eagle American Bar & Grill
228 East 4th Street Waterloo, Iowa 50703 319-235-8865 www.partyattheeagle.com Sidetracked 206 West Union Street Creston, Iowa 50801 641-782-8534 Sparetime Bar & Grill 136 West Main Street Ute, Iowa 61060 712-885-2226 Tailgators Bar & Grill 621 Willow Street Oakland, Iowa 51560 712-482-6269 The Home Plate Diner 304 E. 30th Street Des Moines, Iowa 50317 515-262-7000 The Lounge 1005 Chatburn Ave Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-755-5050
Wilson’s Tap and Recreation 1008 Story Street Boone, Iowa 50036 515-433-1395
BCS Computers 100 Industrial Road Guthrie Center, Iowa 50115 641-747-3344 www.brubakercomputer.com
Guns and Ammo
Joe Karsten-Authorized Dealer Cornwell Tools 329 West Street Manning, Iowa 51455 712-310-0765 mobile
Dales’ Guns Buy-Sell-Trade-Gunsmithing 109 W Main Street Ute, Iowa 712-885-2671 rustyshot2000@yahoo.com Locked and Loaded Outfitters 422 Market Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-755-4867 lockedandloadedoutfitters@gmail.com
Shooter’s Outlet 114 Main Street Arcadia, Iowa 51430 712-689-2772 Tues-Fri 2-7, Sat 8-3 The Gun Shop 300 State Street Guthrie Center, Iowa 50115 641-757-0738 Tues-Thurs 5-7, Sat 10-2
Healthcare/Wellness Sandra Grace Health Care Team 3481 Utica Ridge, Bettendorf, IA (563) 343-5344 sandragracehealthcareteam.com Massage, Hypnosis, Reiki & more Will travel to your event or office
Insurance
The Lounge Harlan Iowa on Facebook
The Middle of Nowhere 112 Main Street Cumberland, Iowa 50843 712-774-5425 The Sawmill Bar & Grill Now with a Full Menu 401 Main St New Market, IA 51646-3079 712-585-3601 Tobey Jacks Mineola Steak House Mineola, Iowa 712-526-2078 Open 7 Days a Week Check Us Out on Facebook Vic’s Main Tap 304 Broadway Audubon, Iowa 50025 712-563-2122 Opens M-F 3, Sat 10, Sun 3 Where You Can Grab a Rack, And Not Get Slapped! Venture Inn Blencoe, Iowa 712-452-2205
United Group Insurance, Inc. 2 East 6th Street Atlantic, Iowa 712-243-6557 507 Main Street Griswold, Iowa 712-778-2575
Photo and Video Ullrich Photography PO Box 1842 Clinton, Iowa 52733 563-243-8715 www.natanic.com
Services Absolute Computer Services 519 Cedar St; Tipton, IA 52772 absolutecomputerservices.us (563)886-8068; surveillance systems; Comp sales, svc, networking &repair
BC’s Custom Wood Floors Brian Christensen 1908 8th Street Harlan, IA 51537 712-755-2098
J & S Custom Cycles 3630 Merle Hay Road Des Moines, Iowa 515-779-4632 Metal Ink 911 7th Street Ste 102 Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-235-2453 www.metalink.org Main Street Bikes and Trikes 522 Main Street Granville, Iowa 51022 712.727.3515 www.shopmsbt.com
Signs & Wonders 101 W Main Street Lockridge, IA 52635-9708 (319) 750-0814 signsandwondersbysue.com Southwest Iowa Sandblasting Mike Magers 65162 Oxford Rd Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-249-3995
Nelson Machine & Forge General Machining, Ornamental Iron, Weld/Fab 70 Washington Street Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2220
Traci Davis Real Estate Specialist 319-400-2000 traci.realtor@gmail.com Skogman Realty
Revolution Cycles 120 South Main Street Baxter, Iowa 50028 641-507-9250 www.rev-ia.com
TVC Home Improvements
Steffens Cycle Shop LLC 1311 E 7th Street Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-249-5876 M-F 9-5 Most Sat 9-12 Or Call
Certified Lead Abatement Contractor
1422 Farnam Davenport, Iowa 52803 866-322-1754
Shops and Fabricators Baggers MC 2632 9th Ave Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501 712-256-1791 Butterfield’s M.C. Parts 8025 Blondo Street Omaha, NE 68134 402-391-3768 Dead Heads Engineering, Fab, Repairs,Sales 426 Railway Street Gillett Grove, Iowa 51341 deadheadsmceng@gmail.com 712-835-3353 Elite Auto Upholstery & Embroidery
Specializing in Motorcycle Seats 1313 Walnut Street Des Moines, Iowa 50309 515-276-4392 F & J Racing 701 N 3rd Ave Marshalltown, Iowa 50158 641-752-8651 www.fandjracing.com
Throttle Shop LLC 1988 Arion Avenue Arion, Iowa 51520 712-674-3325 throttleshopllc@gmail.com XTreme Cycle & Off Road 206 E Main St Panora, Iowa 50216 641-755-4288 xtremecycle@netins.net
Tattoo Crave Tattoo 201 S 12th Street Fort Dodge, Iowa 51501 515-576-8289 FB Crave Tattoo, Inc.
To buy ad space for your business or service or event in our directory, give us call at 712249-5630 or email vernon@ thunderroadsiowa.com
Flying Eye Psycol Circus 512 Main Street LaPorte City, Iowa 50651 319.495.8016 flyingeye@mediacombb.net Joe’s Custom Signs 104 South Main Lenox, Iowa 50851 641-333-2675 Award Winning Custom Airbrushing
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CMA Notes
I must confess, the past several weeks since the lessthan-ideal weather has set in, I have been spending more time atop my deer stand than atop my Road King. Maybe not a suitable trade off, perched in a tree like a big squirrel, hanging on to a bow with one hand and the stand with another while being buffeted in the face by the north wind. It’s amazing at my advanced age; the realization setting in is that my life pretty much revolves around watching for deer. During the spring, summer and fall seasons it’s, “How do I avoid the nasty critters?” and “Is one going to pop out of that ditch or how about that field? No, they’re by the bridge and there are three of them”. During hunting season when you want to see them where are they? Did we run them all over earlier in the year or is this another cruel trick of life to make us uncomfortable and develop patience, perseverance, or maybe even character. We want it all, don’t we? To everything there is a season, a time to ride, a time to hunt, a time to put the leathers on, and a time to wear the camouflage. So it goes. Another thing happening around here I’ve noticed of late is the proliferation of new women riders. In the couple of local groups here abouts, we have had numerous gals taking the Riders Edge type courses, and coming home with shiny new rides. Guys, what woman do you know who doesn’t want to be in control? Also when hearing of the success of these classes, I’ve been told in no uncertain terms that you do not make the mistake of saying they had a “large women’s class”. I have been told instead you are to say there were many women in attendance or better yet, just say there were many petite attendees. Never mind as to who passed this bit of advice along to me. Speaking of; my wife has ridden her own for close to ten years now though it was in many ways more from self-preservation and necessity. Climbing on to the back of my bike, with my reoccurring inner
ear issues, tended to make her uncomfortable, especially when we do not usually have early warning as to when it will strike. I have been sober for more than three decades now but when the inner ear thing kicks in I can reel like a drunken sailor on leave in some exotic port in the old war movies I loved to watch as a kid. Anyway, back to the new women riders, I mean the new petite women riders or is it the petite new women riders or uhhh, those gals with the new bikes. They deserve credit as it takes a lot of practice, desire, perseverance and sometimes the humiliation of the dropped bike to get good at motorcycle riding. Maybe even the dropped bike at a club funeral with 400 plus in attendance and the kick stand is not put down and you are the only woman rider almost taking out and dominoing a whole line of club bikes while they are watching. Again, we won’t mention names to protect the innocent. Right, Honey? The point being is that none of us got it right to begin with; having the right material and a good mentor or instructor helps immensely. The experience of those who have been there before us saves us a lot of grief. Not that we won’t also make our share of mistakes but hopefully they won’t be as bad. In Scripture we see there was one person that did get it right from the beginning, who didn’t have to screw up to learn. His name is Jesus and He left us the Holy Spirit as the ultimate mentor to help us through the process of life. In the book of Romans 5:8, it tells us that while we were yet sinners He died for us. He paid the price in advance, before we could even attempt to get things together - even if that were possible, which it is not. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that we have to reach a certain proficiency in life or degree of competency at being good. We can’t. The Bible tells us in Romans 3:23 that all have all fallen short of the Glory of God and that even our best efforts or righteousness are as filthy rags. The Bible has been given to us as our operator’s manual, our guide, and the answers to life’s questions. Dust it off and use it. Ask God to show you the truth in His word and give you understanding. He will. We try to do the best we can and trust God to take care of our short comings. Be content to know that God knows more than we do and that God is sovereign. That is what faith is all about. Be blessed, Mark Mark and Karla Cornick are Area Reps with the Christian Motorcyclists Association. Find out more about CMA and God’s plan for you at www. cmausa.org
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Road Ramblings random thoughts of a scooter tramp Well unfortunately it is “that time of the year”. It is time to start dealing with the aftermath of being a biker in Iowa. It is time to put the bike into winter storage. This part of being a biker and dealing with the Iowa riding season for lack of a better term sucks ass! I often wonder how other bikers deal with this disturbing lifestyle change. I view winter storage like trying to beat a bad addiction. How do bikers give it up? How do they feed the riding addiction during the off season?
been ignored for months, stroke all the chrome, wax the paint, meticulously scrub the juicy bugs off, fresh lubrication, top off the tank with additives and check the air in the rubbers. Dig out the bike cover, shake out the dust, cover it up, plug it in and kiss your habit goodbye. Every time I clean the bike I start on the left side, work my way around the front, tackle the right side and finish it all off at the rear. Maybe it’s my warped mind but I like to save the best for last, there isn’t anything sweeter than a nice looking rear end! Time to find fourth gear.
No matter how my twisted mind attempts to sort it out or make sense of it, I always conclude that winter storage is like racing down the open highway slamming gears. It is a process! No matter what BS the game of life deals out for a biker getting through the process always starts with first gear.
Fourth Gear – Inventory, the wish list, the dirty little mind begins to build the dream bike. I start to imagine the modifications that could be done by spring. I figure the best way to feed an unobtainable addiction is simply develop a new one. The riding addiction has now transformed into a planning addiction. The planning starts with a fresh paint job, time for some First Gear- Talking myself through it! I try to convince new color, maybe some ghost flames, skulls or myself that I can not control the weather or the air something clever like that hidden in the paint. Then temperatures; despite numerous nasty letters written on to the rubber, the back tire is getting thin maybe its to the state of Iowa using every alias I know, I have not time for a big fat back tire or whitewalls all around. The convinced this great state to install heated highways dream of new chrome can keep a biker junkie like me again this year. So, I will not enjoy the open road twitching for months. Need to consider a bigger cam, on two wheels unless I am willing to conquer the louder pipes, higher apes, air horns, heated grips and elements of ice, snow, sand and salt. I try to limit forward controls again this year. Good time for some talking to myself, to only while admiring my ravishing fresh brake pads or possibly a more comfortable seat. good looks in the mirror. This works well for a while, Maybe I should l strap on some nitrous oxide too so I until I become so enraged that winter has arrived, I can keep up with Vernon, with that being said it is time fear my own reflection to the point that piss runs down to slam it into fifth gear. my leg. That’s when I decide to shift to second gear. Mother Nature is in control of the number of gears Second Gear – Hope for just one more time! About the needed to feed the riding addiction through winter time I have talked myself into winter storage, Mother storage. Tune in next month for more road ramblings Nature throws a lefty. After several continuous weeks and random thoughts, after all what else is there for of low overnight temperatures and daytime highs in riding addicts to do during winter storage besides the 40’s, Iowa experiences a 72 degree day. There is fondle the pages of the upcoming issues of Thunder only one thing to do on a 72 degree winter day. Lie, Roads Magazine of Iowa. yep that’s right, lie, lie to everyone, lie about how you feel, lie about where you are, lie about where you Shifty LaRue should be, lie about the commitments you can not fulfill, play hooky, cancel appointments, call in sick, leave early, don’t show up at, just LIE! Winter isn’t here yet, if you’re a biker addict you will lie in order to fire up the bike and RIDE just one more time! A biker junky understands the importance of the last ride of the season. After getting the final riding fix, call up a biker buddy, rub his nose in his premature storage plans then call him a pussy and move on to third gear. Third Gear – Its time to kick the habit, admit defeat! Bike storage is inevitable, time to ride the wagon for a few months. I plan to hit the riding addiction hard again next season so I better treat the bike right by bedding it down proper for the winter. Grab a towel, you got to get dirty in order to get clean! Time to clean up the bike, hand wash all the tight spots that have www.thunderroadsiowa.com
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C ti i on from October’s article over some of the new Continuing motorcycles that Harley has released this month; I will get back to what I know best, the parts and pieces that make up the beautiful ways we express ourselves. This year’s dealer show brought a lot more accessories to my attention than shows years before.
The biggest one that caught my eye was the new Burst Collection. If anyone knows or has seen my bike (this month, last year›s cover bike) they know that I like blacked out bikes and parts. The Burst collection is just that. It teams up that sinister black look with a very tasteful but not over done accent with raw machined aluminum. For once they didn’t just release just a few items to tease everyone; they brought out the whole collection to dress your bike from front to rear. I’ll start out with what many people say is the centerpiece of a bike, the motor area. Starting from the top we have the new Rocker box covers that just accent the motor and give it a little more edge. From there, we go to the transmission, cam, and derby covers. These covers add just the right amount of black vs. aluminum that you just can’t help but look at. Up next we have the Screamin Eagle Performance Burst Collection Air Cleaner Kit. This low profile air cleaner provides high-volumes of air and
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New Year’s Eve
Christmas Eve
Christmas
of Iowa We want you on our pages! If you are an Iowa Girl of Thunder, send us your name, year and model of bike, and where you are from to vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
Alison Lindstrom Council Bluffs Harley Davidson Rocker
Kathy Disney Indianola 1965 Harley Davidson Electra Glide
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Bree Whipps Carlisle/Des Moines 1969 Harley Davidson FLH
C.O.I.R. Report
Coalition of Independent Riders The Little Honda By Peter Sieben Lt. Commander C.O.I.R. of Iowa ABATE of IA, District 20 Legislative Officer Hello Ladies, I would like to express how shocked I was to read that this section might be deleted from the greatest biker magazine I’ve ever had the pleasure to read. I enjoy every part of Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa from its colorful pictures, informative articles, humorous jokes, complete schedule of events and fund raisers, and much more, but I have to say “From the Woman’s Seat is our own spot in the mag to share our experiences and thoughts as us women see it. Are you going to give up your chance to participate and voice your feelings and ideals as only a female rider can? I have been riding on the back of a bike since I was a very young girl and I am in my 50’s now. I don’t have a partner to ride behind anymore or a bike of my own. I miss every day and hope to ride again someday, as it is in my blood.
About 10 years ago, my wife announced that she’d like to ride her own bike. She’d had some previous dirt bike experience so I figured that with a little practice she’d have no problem. I set about on a search for a cheap and reliable little bike for her to practice on.
I found a 1981 Honda CM200T on eBay, a Twinstar 200cc street bike with just over 6,000 miles on it. I got it for $300 and another $200 or so in freight. When it arrived it looked like it had been dipped in a big vat of mud and ugly. It had been owned by the New York State Parks Department, and has a badge riveted to the front fender to prove it. Someone had installed a giant fairing and windshield, crash bars and an adjustable backrest to the poor little thing. Sitting there looking pathetic, I put in some gas, checked the oil and kicked it over. It ran on the second kick. At some time it apparently was parked close to a pile of salt or near the Until then I get much joy hearing about other women ocean. The chrome is pretty badly pitted but after a good and their travel experiences. You know there is no cleaning, new bars and mirrors from J.C.Whitney, it looks other like it. I’ve been very fortunate to have traveled good from 10 feet or so. My wife put a little over 1,100 to 40 of the 50 states in this nation and many events. miles on it before she picked out her next bike. I’m a guy I’ve met many of people, and experienced a variety of who believes that you only get so many good deals in your new and insightful things along the way. I feel blessed life, so I’ve kept the little Honda. and thankful for what these experiences have done to educate and form me into a well rounded, fun loving, After that it was borrowed out to several additional people good hearted woman. I hope other women can relate who’ve ridden it for a while and then tested on it to get and enjoy our unique way of fife. I hope it brings you their motorcycle endorsement. You just gotta love it. After much joy and enriches your life as it did mine. I will that it was pretty much abandoned for the last couple of ride again but until then sisters, please share with me years. Three weeks ago I rescued it from the shed and set your stories and feelings from the Woman’s Seat. I about bringing it back to life. The gas was old so that was look forward to this article in every issue as it is my a mess. The back brake was messed up and the blinker was favorite part. Until I have the wind in my hair again, I bent. The oil was old, the clutch was stiff and the battery will enjoy hearing about the wind in yours. God Bless was dead. I wasn’t a moment too soon. After showing it and Ride Safe some love and around $75 in parts for a battery, rebuild the carb, oil, cleaning supplies, etc. she was back to her old Debra Jo Weuve self. Since then, another friend has used that little Honda to Marshalltown practice and pass his motorcycle skills test. ILLBCNU The little Honda is back in my garage. The other day, just for the hell of it, I took the little Honda for a ride. I don’t think you can ride that thing and not laugh out loud. It’s as fun as the first time you rode a bike. I was thinking about what makes it so fun, the answer is simple; it reminds me of the freedom I felt the first time I rode when I was a kid, back when I was truly free. I’m keeping that little Honda. No matter what life brings, I’ll always know where to get a laugh. This month I decided to stay away from the political stuff. I do want to let you know that the ABATE of Iowa Lobby Day at the State Capital in Des Moines is scheduled for February 13th. Take the day off work and remind your elected officials who they work for. Have comments or questions? Email peter@riderpromotions.com www.thunderroadsiowa.com
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Zombie Burger + Drink Lab 300 E. Grand Avenue, Des Moines
will ride to eat
Sunday - Thursday 11AM - Midnight, Friday - Saturday 11AM - 2 AM 515-244-9292
good stuff. The maitre d' told me there would be a 30 minute wait to get seated but as it turned out it was only about 10 minutes. All the staff is very friendly and accommodating. My wife thinks I'm weird (well in all fairness most people They give you plenty of time to peruse the menu and decide who know me think I'm weird!) but I love zombie movies. what you'll have. Thanks to the expansive choices the menu I grew up with The Night Of The Living Dead, the clasoffers it's good to have time because choices are definitely sic black and white movie that introduced us to the world difficult to make! I bailed on trying something obscure (I of zombies (it still amazes me with the quality of special know, I know, "who are you and what did you do with the effects in the film especially considering it was filmed by Will Ride For Food Dude???"), I wanted to be able to give George A. Romero in 1968!). When a friend of mine told a fair comparison with meals I've had before. I chose the me about a place in Des Moines call Zombie Burger (thanks Zombie Burger (although so as not to let you all down too Scott) the name intrigued me. When he told me about the bad I did make it a triple!!!) and the fry basket with house burgers there I knew this was somewhere I needed to check dipping sauce. First the burger, 3 patties of perfectly cooked out!!! I visited their website beef, held together with what at zombieburgerdm.com seemed to me to be an entire to peruse their menu and block of American cheese WOW, what a menu! Any melted in and around them! affection-ado of zombie Throw some lettuce, tomato genre movies will recogand onion on top and splash nize the names they have on the Zombie sauce (I don't given their menu items. The know what it's made of but combinations of toppings on it sure was good!) and you the burgers and New Jersey have what could be considRippers (deep fried hot dogs) ered an awesome burger!!!! are positively mind bogI have added it to my list of gling! Since my wife doesn't favorites! The fries are fried appreciate the nuances of with the skins on (I really the zombie world I waited like that kind!) but the real until a night when she was star of the fry basket is the away on business and went dipping sauce. Sweet and tart solo on this run (when dealat the same time with just a ing with zombies in some hint of a bite! I know I didn't situations it's best to be solo go very adventurous with so you only have one back my menu selections but this to watch!). Now I'm going to let you in on a little secret, I will definitely NOT be my last visit!!!! I promise to let my don't get to the heart of Des Moines very often. Being just wild side loose next time and try one of the other culinary a few blocks west of the Capitol building on Grand Avenue delights on the menu. I would be remiss if I didn't send out this certainly qualifies as the "heart" of Des Moines. Every kudos to the kitchen staff... I was served my food faster than parking place in this area has a parking meter and every many fast food restaurants!!!! Well Done!!!!! parking lot has a "don't park here or you'll get towed" sign. After finally resigning myself to feed a parking meter I The Zombie Burger and parked and started pumping quarters into the meter. Thank- Drink Lab, whether or not fully a Good Samaritan came along, walking her dog, and you're into zombies the food let me know that since it was after 6 PM I didn't have to pay there is DEFINITELY meant to park! Man, did I feel like the Mayor of Hicksville! I don't to be enjoyed by the living! know if the parking lot warnings are valid after 6 PM or Don't pass up the opportunity not, park there at your own risk (if you do park in a marked to check it out and tell them lot, email me and let me know if you got towed or not!). Thunder Roads Iowa sent you!!!! The building is basically divided into two Until next month, ride safe sections; the sit down and eat hearty! and eat section and the sit down and wait Craig Little for your take out orcraig@thunderroadsiowa.com der section. Both sections are packed with PS If you have someplace you zombie memorabilia think we should check out in and for the zombie your neck of the woods, shoot connoisseur its pretty me an email. 20 - TRMI DECEMBER 2012
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A little old lady answered a knock on the door one day, to be confronted by a welldressed young man carrying a vacuum cleaner. ‘Good morning,’ said the young man. ‘If I could take a couple minutes of your time, I would like to demonstrate the very latest in highpowered vacuum cleaners. ‘’Go away!’’ said the old lady. ‘’I’m broke and haven’t got any money!’’ and she proceeded to close the door. Quick as a flash, the young man wedged his foot in the door and pushed it wide open...’’Don’t be too hasty!’’ he said. ‘’Not until you have at least seen my demonstration.’’ And with that, he emptied a bucket of horse manure onto her hallway carpet. “Now if this vacuum cleaner does not remove all traces of this horse manure from your carpet, Madam, I will personally eat the remainders.” The old lady stepped back and said, “Well, dumb-ass, let me get you a fork, ‘cause they cut off my electricity this very morning. **************************************** A biker goes into a cantina in a small Mexican village, throws his dusty saddlebags up on the bar
and says, “Amigo, three shots of tequila.” The bartender puts three shots of tequila on the bar, and as fast as he can pour them, the biker drinks ‘em down, fast. “Barkeep, three more shots.” “Senor” says the bartender, “be careful not to get drunk and pass out or Pancho will put you in his wheel barrel; take you out back and have “his way” with you.” As the biker looks over at this little ole’, one eyed, toothless Mexican man sitting at a table, with a wheel barrel beside him against the wall, “Hey!, I said three more shots of tequila.” Again, the bartender pours three more shots of tequila and again as fast as he can pour them, the biker drinks ‘em down. About two hours later the biker wakes up in a wheel barrel being pushed by Pancho, “Hey, where the hell do you think you’re taking me?” “Senor” says Pancho, “I am not taking you anywhere... I am bringing you back!!! **************************************** Two Kentucky good ole’ boys are sitting on the front porch. One says, “Did you know that elks have sex 10 to 15 times a night?” “Gid-dangit”, says his friend, “and I just joined the friggin’ Lions Club!”
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MILITARY RIDERS
This December we bring you a pair of Military Riders. David and Amanda Nelson a couple that serves together, and rides together. David is originally from Vail, Iowa and Amanda is originally from Vallejo, California. They are both currently stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia and serve this great country in the Army. Both have attained the rank of Major since their 2003 beginning in the service. Prior to landing in Fort Benning, they have also served in Fort Hood, In Germany, and in Iraq. Both work as Dentists keeping the pearly whites of other soldiers shining and strong.
Iowa’s 482nd Transportation Company for eight years with a tour of duty in Iraq. They both got into riding in 2010 with a purchase of a Harley Davidson Softail Deluxe. They bought the ride in southwest Georgia while stationed there. This bike was chosen because of the looks, they both appreciate the old school look to it. They do not plan on much for accessories, other than maybe some louder pipes, as they do not want to take away from the nostalgic look of the motorcycle. They enjoy hopping on the bike going on local rides, attending some poker runs, and just hanging out with other riding friends. The couple belongs to the VFW, and comment that almost all of the members of their local post ride. They have many friends there that they ride with regularly. David’s father and brother also ride, with a 2000 Road King Classic and a 2012 Fatboy, respectively.
The Military has been a big part of both family histories as both of their If you see David and Amanda while fathers served. they are back visiting in Iowa, give David’s dad was an Infantryman who sustained combat them a thank you wave, and if you get a chance, shake wounds in Vietnam, and Amanda’s father was in their hands and thank them for their service. Ride Free the Air Force as a dentist for eight years of service. Thanks to our Military! David’s Uncle also served in the United States Navy for four years, and his youngest brother served in
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a Texter inner Shayn win. w s le g in S 012 feature le AMA Pro ing Knoxvil m the crowd after her 2 uur on lap five d n a fe e in D rt a p use fro Vanderk bers take rt of the accepts appla the lead from Stephen d straight win on the istrict 9, mem pa D s a , a o e w d Io ro n le f o o e o le c g on th otorcyc ABATE Shayna st oked back for her se rab in the m kend of racin tennis-ball-gies surrounding the wee and never loalf-mile. it v ti c a y nds. man Knoxville h nty Fairgrou u o C n o ri a M www.thunderroadsiowa.com TRMI DECEMBER 2012 - 25
I have had the pleasure of chatting with an old gray beard on more than one occasion about a multitude of motorcycle topics. After a while of chatting, I realized that some of the insight offered by this particular cat made for kind of an interesting perspective on riding in Iowa over the last 40 or so years. Now this cat has chosen to remain nameless, as he is more the silent type, but let’s just say he is one of the top hawgs in his world. This dude has put on a ton of miles on many different types of bikes over the years, so in a nutshell, was a great source for gaining one man’s perspective on 40 years of riding in Iowa. We will refer to him as “Bill” for this article.
states that anyone that rode was looked at as a second class citizen. At that point in time it was not Doctors, Lawyers, business executives, and professionals that rode, it was people that may have had no other means for transportation. Riders at that point truly loved the machines that they traveled on, and did not care what people thought of their attire or lifestyle. The general public even viewed bikers as a part of the species worth eradicating, or at least making things more difficult for. The common phrase heard after a car/motorcycle crash “I did not see that biker” was as much a lack of concern as anything. The general public even considered some riders as a nuisance and would do their part to run them off the road. Two of the biggest enemies of motorcyclists in the early days of Bill’s riding were little old ladies and officers of the law. Both groups would do whatever they could to keep riders from riding.
An internal biker trends in the early days included stopping to help another biker broken down on the side of the road. One of the topics of discussion strewn about the many This practice sadly has gone by the wayside for many riders. meetings was about what the definition of some motorcycle The “biker’s code” if you will, has been broken many times rider nomenclature is. Rider, Biker, Enthusiast; so many over as bikes speed past a stranded rider on the side of the titles, so many lines, so much confusion about what each of road. This was something that did not happen back in the them means. In about 1972, when Bill started riding back day. Bill states that in the past, when a group would take off in Crawford county Iowa, there were only 11 registered on a ride, there was an unofficial inventory taken of spare Harley Davidson Motorcycles. It is hard to imagine a time parts and tools to ensure the group could return together. when you knew everyone in your home area that rode a If one broke down the group would pitch in to make sure bike. This simple fact alone shows that this dude has been their buddy got up and running, and on down the road in the motorcycle world for quite some time. In those together. If you came across a rider that was having issues, times, a biker was very simply just that, someone that rode it was pretty much mandatory to stop and offer assistance. a bike. That definition still technically holds true today, Sometimes all that could be offered was a watchful eye but has gone through a few evolutionary changes. If you for oncoming traffic, but some days that can make the ride a bike, you are a biker, but then, if you are RIDING difference. We both agreed that the practice of helping out that bike, does that make you a rider? Then you throw in when needed should return, this is something that helps the word enthusiast, and what exactly does that entail? An the biker community stick together and watch out for one enthusiast is akin to being enthusiastic about something, but another. Where the biker world has come from, and where in the motorcycle world, what is one enthusiastic about? it is today is something that needs to be studied, to know The bike itself, riding, wrenching, fabrication, dressing that we will have a future as a motorcyclist. the part, or simply the lifestyle of the “biker” world? The word enthusiast is commonly thrown out by people when The current state of affairs in relation to riders is varied and describing those that are not in their own definition of a even somewhat convoluted, but overall far better than it has “true biker”. The motorcycle community is a tight knit been in the past. The days of the little old ladies TRYING group for the most part, but if you throw in some attitude to run a biker off the road are almost non-existent. Bill and misunderstanding, you have a recipe for potential adds that this in part is due to the popularity of two wheeled trouble. Bill’s advice on using a moniker of choice for travel now. Almost all motorists now know someone yourself or others was simple, “be who you are, ride your personally that ride, and do not want to run someone off the damn motorcycle if that is what you like to do, and do not road, as they may know who the person is. In the past that worry about what everyone else calls you”. was not necessarily the case. With more motorcycles on the road, awareness for two wheeled travel has increased, Now back to some of the things that have shaped why and albeit not perfect, cars are watching out for motorcycles riders are the way they are, and how they are seen by the more now than they ever have; this of course with the general public. One of the common thoughts of outsiders exception of drivers that are messing with electronic looking in is the fact that one color of attire is prevalent in devices. Riders must be wary of any and all cages, who the motorcycle world. If you are thinking black, you are knows what they are doing while going down the road. 100% correct. This particular color was not chosen for its ominous appearance, it was simply due to motorcycles Overall the image of the motorcycle world has improved being dirty machines. Chain drives throwing oil, splattering as well. People from all walks of life now enjoy the ability cloths, oil leaks and the need for frequent repairs getting to hop on and ride their bikes and enjoy the social aspects hands and clothing soiled. This is the true reason behind the of motorcycling as well. Bikers are more widely accepted color of biker threads. If it was not black to begin with, it and the general public does not fear black attire and leather soon was after a day of riding and wrenchin’. So the term gear nearly as much as they used to. People now see that “dirty biker” is not such a stretch of the imagination. The overall the biker world beats with a heart that is huge, predominantly black attire, leather protective gear, and the and many bikers do whatever they can to help those less “dirty” nature of the riders would have even made the Dalai fortunate. In the summertime in Iowa you almost cannot Lama look ominous on a motorcycle. 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Usually multiple events are going on around the state simultaneously.
Company’s commercials. Almost disheartening to see that violent outlaw drama television is not out of the reach of main stream advertising. On the flip side of the improved image of motorcyclist, we The final topic that was discussed was the future of now have the Sons of Anarchy television show that depicts motorcycling and how we go on from here and remain free bikers in a terrible light. Bill states that this show has in our choices to ride what, when, and how we want. Bill struck a blow to bikers in multiple aspects. Not only has it clearly states that education is the key; rider education given some of the public the perception that all bikers are to keep riders safer, but not only education on riding, but outlaw gang members, but also has had effects on riders on the ways of the world Along with education on laws, themselves. The motorcycle club world has always been trends, current events, and how to remove legal roadblocks a misunderstood entity, and now with this show, the public that keep appearing in front of us as riders. As a biker, rider, and riders have an even more confused view of all the enthusiast, or whatever other monikers you care to use, be above. The popularity of the show rings loudly though with educated, be an educated rider, be an educated citizen, and the corporate sponsorship of the show. In the beginning, ride free another day. Harley-Davidson would not advertise during the show, but after the mass popularity, you can now see the Motor Vernon
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Nov 30 Dec 1 Dec 9 Dec 12 Dec 15-16
Carroll Cycle Center Guys Night Out Carroll CR Chrome Divas “Santa’s Lil Divas”XMas Event Road MC Breakfast Brayton 833rd Chopper Raffle Party Ottumwa Backroads Biker Leather Shoppe Open House Everly
2013 Jan 12 Jan 13 Jan 24
ABATE D14 Swap Meet TBA Road MC Breakfast Brayton Hawkeye HD Boot Camp “Recruiting Future Riders” Coralville Jan 25-27 Rod and Custom Motorcycle and Car Show Rock Island, IL Feb 3 Parts Girl Promotions Swap Meet Rock Island, IL Feb 9-10 Capital City Show and Swap Des Moines Feb 10 Road MC Breakfast Brayton Feb 13 ABATE Lobby Day Des Moines Feb 16 Hawkeye Harley-Davidson Chili Cook Off Coralville Feb 22-23 Hogs Gone Wild Fan Fest Dubuque Feb 23-24 44th Annual O’Reilly Rod & Custom Bike/Car Show Monticello Mar 1-3 World of Wheels Chicago Mar 3 Parts Girl Promotions Swap Meet Cedar Rapids Mar 9 Flippin for B.A.C.A Flippy Cup Tournament West Des Moines Mar 10 Road MC Breakfast Brayton Mar 15-17 World of Wheels Omaha, NE Mar 30-31 Swap Meet Sioux Falls, SD Apr 6-7 North Iowa Motorcycle Expo Mason City Apr 6 ABATE D14 TGIS Party Bridge View Ottumwa Apr 26 Motorcycle Safety Forum State Fairgrounds Des Moines Apr 27 Fenders Cycle Open House Extravaganza Des Moines May 3-4 Vintage Torquefest Dubuque May 4 F&J Racing 18th Annual Blessing of the Bikes Marshalltown May 4 Hawkeye Harley-Davidson Spring Open House Coralville May 16-18 Hog Wild Rodeo Conesville May 18 B.A.C.A Annual 100 Mile Ride and Party Des Moines May 18 National Armed Forces Freedom Ride Iowa Council Bluffs May 25-26 Midway Tavern 15th Annual Fun Run, BBQ, Street Dance Soldier May 31-Jun 2 Iowa Grand Motorcycle Rally Newton Jul 4-6 ABATE Freedom Rally Algona Jul 20 Iowa Lakes Scholarship Poker Ride Estherville Aug 1-3 6th Annual Across the Border Raid Bedford Aug 17 Bob Ezarski Memorial Run Iowa Falls Aug 24 B.A.C.A of Central Iowa Bike Bash 2013 Aug 29-Sep 1 Circle of Pride Thunder In the Sand Conesville Aug 31 Sep 1 Midway Tavern Soldier Valley Run BBQ, Street Dance Soldier Sep 28 Hawkeye Harley-Davidson Fall Open House Coralville This list is what we have found and what has been submitted. Before heading to any event, please check weather and make sure the event is not cancelled for some reason. Not responsible for misprints and typos. If you have any other events to list, please email them with Date/Name of Event/Location to vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
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