Daylight hours are getting longer, and with Daylight Savings Time starting this month along with the official start of spring, riding season for many of us is officially here! I know, I know, some of you never put them away, and rode every month of the winter, but that makes you the exception and not the rule. Now that we have more daylight, hopefully the fear of the white precipitation and associated brine on the highways behind us, and we can get on with riding whenever the weather allows. With the new riding season, don’t forget to check over the bike before you mount up and make sure all is safe and good for mile after mile of two or three wheel bliss. If you don’t have time to properly check it over, look on pages 10-12 for the dealerships and shops and get with them to do the work for ya. Tell them that Thunder Roads sent ya. If it was not for the folks that support us month after month, we would not be able to get these pages to you. Support our sponsors whenever you can.
so you will have to cross over the river and come see us at the show! I am sure there is something at the WOW and bike show that you can admire and maybe even inspire your next build.
After we get through the month of March and then on April 1st we will be firing up the 2017 Tall Corn Run! We have been working on getting things lined up and will be raring to go when the day of fools hits. You can check out a map page in this issue about where to get a Tall Corn Run Ride & Win card, or catch one of the staff, or stop by our booth at one of the shows. The program will work the same as last year, so if you already have a card, you DO NOT need to get another one. The cards do not expire. With this card, from April 1st through August 31st, riders can check in up to once a week at the Registration and at the CheckIn Sites. Check-Ins are recorded and get you a chance to win great prizes each month of the program, as well as chances to win grand prizes at the end of the program at a drawing party on September 9th. A couple of big events for March that TRMI will be at are All of the details will be in the April issue with the map and the Parts Girl Promotions Swap Meet in Cedar Rapids on information pages. Hop on and Ride the Tall Corn Run in Sunday March 5th as well as the Midwest Motorcycle Show 2017! held in conjunction with the 62nd Annual World of Wheels in Omaha March 17-19th at the Centurylink Center. The Time to go for now, but hope that everyone has a great swap meet in Cedar Rapids is one of my favorite anywhere. March, a great start to spring, and a wonderful riding There are more parts and cool biker stuff here than you can season! Ride it safe, ride it straight, ride it for life. imagine in a single building, single day, and single cool Vernon event. They put on one hell of a good swap meet, and one of the few that you can actually build a bike out of if you are so inclined. The Midwest Motorcycle Show a couple of Quote of the Month: “Bikers and veterans go hand in hand weeks later is our baby. This is the second year of TRMI and I can assure you that we never forget. That rumbling sponsoring the show and it is looking to be even bigger and sound you hear when a group of bikes come together is not better. We have been looking for the coolest of rides all noise sir, it is the harmony of brotherhood coming together around the Midwest in our travels and it is looking to be a for a purpose and cause.” Crysta Baker great show. We have some cool vendors coming in as well,
On the Cover
The Midwest Motorcycle Show is this month and Jim Todd will be there with his Triumph Racers. Jim is a fixture at motorcycle shows across our state and beyond. Beginning his hill climbing career upon the insistence of his late wife, the name Jim Todd and his outstanding collection of Triumph race bikes has become somewhat of a legend in the local climbing world. Jim attributes his success to the support of his wife and family and loves to keep his wife’s spirit alive by showing off what “she made me do”. If ya see Ol’ Man Triumph at a show, take a moment to listen to his plentiful stories and make sure ya tell him how much I adore him!! Miss you ALL!! – Pinky 4 - TRMI MARCH 2017
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CMA Notes
It’s that time of year - hunting season is over, I’m all caught up on the winter reloading and not much to do but stare at the light on our bikes’ battery tenders. As fascinating as that is I wandered down to the library and picked up a book titled Legend. It’s the true story of a Viet Nam Green Beret sergeant named Roy Benavidez and his exploits that earned him the Congressional Medal of Honor. It’s an amazing story of a regular guy that dreamed of being a paratrooper. He eventually realized his dream and made it to Viet Nam only to get blown up by a land mine which sent him home paralyzed. He was told by doctors he would never walk again and would be discharged as disabled. He wouldn’t accept that and worked until he not only could walk again, but was able to finagle his way to being deployed again, rejoining his buddies in Nam.
responded, “The heroes are the ones who didn’t come back.” Chris Kyle, our nation’s top sniper with the most recorded kills, who died tragically much too soon and was called the Legend, said of Roy, “Now Roy Benavidez, he’s the Legend.”
Our history is filled with untold numbers of those who made the supreme sacrifice so we can live in liberty. Their sacrifice benefits us all, even those who would protest and try to undermine our Constitution and way of life. But unlike the heroes that didn’t make it back, we do have one hero who, having made the supreme sacrifice, did come back and is coming again. He not only gave his life but left heaven knowing he would be beaten, tortured and crucified. He did so willingly and also had the burden of every sin lain upon him. The book of Isaiah tells us that he was despised and rejected but still bore our At the swap meet last weekend I saw all the vet MCs, RCs griefs and carried our sorrows. He was stricken, smitten and and associations in attendance and was thinking of the huge afflicted, wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities and by his stripes we are healed. percentage of vets in our biking community as well as the many clubs that had their beginnings with vets. I thought He took the crucifixion on the cross, spiritual and physical of all my relatives who have served, seen combat and are currently serving. It reminded me of the book I had started death and rose again for our redemption. He wasn’t awarded about Roy Benavidez and how much we owe these men and the Congressional Medal of Honor, but the name of Lord of Lords and King of Kings. At the name of Jesus, every knee women and how we should show our appreciation every should bow, in heaven and earth and under the earth, and day not just Veterans Day and Memorial Day. every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. I got home, picked up the book, and finished Roy’s story. Blessings, This guy not only went back to Nam but wrangled his way Mark into a Special Forces unit in the thick of the action on both sides of the Cambodian border. Of course at the time our Mark and Karla Cornick are Area Reps with the Christian government insisted we were not in Cambodia and that’s Motorcyclists Association. Find out more about CMA and why it took until the Reagan administration to be awarded God’s plan for you at www.cmausa.org the honor. During an across-the-border action a Special Forces team became surrounded and chopper rescuers were being shot down as they tried to get the team out. Roy, hearing about it over the radio, jumped on the next chopper in with no weapon, but only a medic’s bag. The fighting was so heavy they couldn’t land and Roy jumped out to help. Before it was all over Roy had organized a perimeter defense and rescue, saved many lives, and wouldn’t leave until the last man was out. During the hours-long battle he was bayoneted, shot, and hit by grenade shrapnel more than thirty times but refused to quit. They actually had him zipped into a body bag before someone heard him try to talk. Back home he was called a hero to which he always
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The Biker Friendly Business Directory is a list of establishments throughout Iowa that sponsor the magazine. You can pick up your copy here every month. Let them know that you saw them in TRMI. If your business would like to advertise in Thunder Roads Iowa Biker Friendly Business Listing and become a part of the network, please email vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
Biker Accessories CoolBikerStuff.com 1606 P Avenue Milford, Iowa 51351 877-816-2200 Follow us on Facebook!! Crispy’s Biker Apparel Cedar Rapids, Iowa Find Us On Facebook 319-241-0916
Churches Rebels In His Hands 600 16th Avenue Council Bluffs, Iowa Mark and Lora Schiller Pastors 712-329-9901
Dealers
Fenders Honda 100 South 16th Street Ames, Iowa 50010 info@fendershonda.com 515-233-4727 Heartland Harley-Davidson 117 S. Roosevelt Ave Burlington, Iowa 52601 www.heartlandhd.com 319-754-1100 Loess Hills Harley-Davidson 57408 190th Street Pacific Junction IA 51561 712-622-4000 loesshillshd.com McGrath Dubuque Harley-Davidson 145 N Crescent Rdg Dubuque, IA 52003 563-557-3735 www.dubuqueharley-davidson.com McGrath Hawkeye Harley-Davidson 120 Westcor Drive Coralville, IA 52241 319- 545.7495 www.hawkeyehd.com Metro Harley-Davidson 2415 Westdale Drive SW Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404 319-362-9496 www.metro-motorsports.com
Baxter Cycle 311 4th Street Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2351 www.baxtercycle.com
Nishna Valley Cycle HONDA – YAMAHA – KTM Atlantic, Iowa 50022 1-888-577-6406 www.nishnavalleycycle.com
Big Barn Harley-Davidson 81 NW 49th Place Des Moines, Iowa 50313 515-265-4444 www.bigbarnhd.net
Okoboji Harley-Davidson 1005 Eastview Avenue Okoboji IA, 51355 712-332-7700 www.erniesharley.com
C&C Custom Cycle 130 E Lincoln Chariton, Iowa 50049 641-774-7494 www.cc-cycle.com
Route 65 Harley-Davidson 1300 S Jefferson Way Indianola, Iowa 50125 515.962.2160 www.route65hd.net
Carroll Cycle Center 1327 Plaza Dr Carroll, Iowa 712-792-1610 www.carrollcycle.com
Uptown Motors Sales, Inc 310 Cleveland St Muscatine, IA 52761 563-263-2944 www.uptownmotorsales.com
Edwards Motorsports and RV’s 1010 34th Avenue Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501 712-366-8400 fullthrottleia.com or edwardsrvs.com
Wiebler’s Harley-Davidson 5320 Corporate Park Drive Davenport, IA 52807 563-355-6437 www.wieblers.com
Ernie’s Harley-Davidson 2613 Hwy 18 East Algona, IA 50511 515-295-7951 www.erniesharley.com
Zylstra Harley-Davidson 1930 E 13th Street Ames, Iowa 50010 515-232-6223 zylstrahd.com
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Entertainment
Fenders Cycle and Motorsport 1500 E Army Post Road Des Moines, Iowa 50315 515-256-9062 www.fenderscycle.com
Book Em Dano’s 33 S Main Street Denison, Iowa 51442 712-263-9818Mon-Sat 4-2 Dancers Nightly 5-1:30
Baxa’s Sutliff Store & Tavern 5546 130th Street NE Lisbon 319-624-2204 Cold Beer, Delicious Food, Good Music & Great Times! Bill’s Boat Landing Clayton, Iowa 563-964-2112 Check Us Out on Facebook Where the River is Calling & You Must Go!
Celebrations DJ & Karaoke Services Newton, IA 641-521-8036 Any Occasion /Rally or Event EmCee Bootleggers of Millville Facebook/Ray Johansen(Celebrations) Awesome Stop, Great Staff, Fantastic Food Specializing in Weddings & Receptions Tops in Scenic River Rides Check us on Facebook Marshall County Hangmen 563-252-7775 DUO ACT AVAILABLE Bike Nights, Bars, Private Parties C&L Sandbar Large Events & Small 103 North Noyes Street Dave Gray 641-691-0822 Mondamin, IA 51557 712-646-2300 or 712-216-0975 National Motorcycle Museum Hours Daily 11-close 102 Chamber Drive Anamosa, Iowa 52205 Catfish Charlie’s 319-462-3925 On the Mississippi River Nationalmcmuseum.org 1630 E. 16th Street Dubuque, IA 52001 (563)582-8600 Okoboji Classic Cars www.CatfishCharliesDubuque.com Museum and Restoration Shop 810 Jeppeson Road CJ’s Bar and Grill West Okoboji, Iowa 51351 105 E Marion St Monroe, IA 712-332-8029 641-259-2222 & Facebook M-F 11am-Close, S-S Noon-Close Homemade Food-Live Food and Drink Entertainment Ambro’s Roadhouse 917 Guthrie St De Soto, Iowa 50069 515-468-2236 Great Food! Ambro’s Roadhouse on Facebook American Legion Post 46 1301 S 6th Street Marshallton, Iowa50158 641-752-3612 Open to the Public 7 Days a Week American Legion Post 111 1101 W 4th Street S Newton 641-792-3353 Open to the Public Newtonamericanlegion111.org Amigo’s 280 North 1st Street Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501 515-576-0142 Amigosfortdodge.com Bailey’s Pub -N- Grub 918 E Euclid Ave Des Moines 515-266-6560 Mon-Sat 6am-2am Sun 8am-12am Home Cooked Food
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Barney’s 203 S Mill Street Wadena, Iowa 52169 563-774-2525 Barney’s Wadena on Facebook
Desperados 105 E 5th Street Atlantic 712-243-7087 Home of Cold Beer, Good Times, Pizza & Wings Dirty Ernies 201 1st Street NE Farley, Iowa 563-744-4653 Ride your Harley to Farley! Durango Depot 736 Burtons Furnace Road Open 3 to close Best Scenic Road With the Best Food! 563-552-2291 Ferg’s Bar & Grill 806 Hwy 30 Grand Junction, Iowa 50107 515-738-5416 Where Good Friends Meet Fro’s Pub ‘N Grub 309 Cedar St, Wilton 563-732-3977 Fro’s Pub n Grub on Facebook A Surprise Around Every Corner Goozman’s Westside Bar & Grill 1019 7th St Harlan, Iowa 712-755-2259 Goozman’s Westside on Facebook FFore Seasons Folf Bar 6232 HWY S-74 South Newton, Iowa 50208 641-792-1246 Open to the Public 7 Days a Week
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Haverhill Social Club 202 1st Street Haverhill, Iowa 50120 641-475-3321 Mon-Sat 10-2, Sun 12-12 Hawkeye Bar & Grill 110 North 4th Street Mapleton, IA 51034 712-882-1226 Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m. ~ Sun 12:00 p.m. Hog Stop BBQ 2327 S. 24th Street Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501 712-EAT-BBQS Hog Stop BBQ on Facebook Iron Saddle Saloon 39 S Main Street Dayton, Iowa 50530 515-547-3311
Montgomery Street Pub 207 East Montgomery Street Creston, Iowa 50801 641-782-2165
Sidetracked 206 West Union Street Creston, Iowa 50801 641-782-8534
Mudders in Minburn Coldest Beer in Dallas County Bar Food-Wings-Pizza-ETC 515-897-9223 Open M-Sun 11AM Facebook Mudders
Sparetime Bar & Grill 136 West Main Street Ute, Iowa 61060 712-885-2226
Papa Joe’s 117 South 6th Street Missouri Valley, Iowa 51555 712-642-9015
Sportsman Bar & Grill 103 1st Street Pisgah, Iowa 51564 712-456-2222 FOOD, FUEL, FUN
Pearl Street Social Club 110 Pearl Street SW Shellsburg, Iowa 52332 319-436-7100 Find Us On Facebook!
Stumpy’s Bar & Grill 423 Main Street Duncombe, Iowa 50532 515-543-4222 Stumpy’s Bar & Grill on Facebook
Pines Steakhouse Oinkers Lounge & Grill
J.R. Willie’s Gateway to the Beautiful Hill Country Colesburg, IA 563-856-5095 Open Daily Mon-Sun 11AM Home of the Willie Whopper
1500 E 7th Street Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-243-3606 M-F 11AM-, S-S 4PM-
Suds –N- Jugs Bar & Grill 807 Iowa Avenue Onawa, Iowa 51040 712-433-4880 Nightly Food Specials
Jerrys 100 W Washington Exira, Iowa 50076 Jerrys Exira on Facebook “The Party Lives On”
Pizza Ranch DENISON 510 HWY 39 North Denison, Iowa 712-393-3333 Check Us Out on Facebook Open 7 Days a Week
The Back Forty 317 Main St. Macedonia, Iowa 51549 712-486-2687 facebook.com/thebackforty
Just 1 More 515-570-4206 403 3rd Ave Under the Water Tower Jamaica, Iowa Knickers Saloon 2186 Central Avenue Dubuque, Iowa 52001 563-557-0887 365 Days a Year Knickers Saloon on Facebook L&S Knuckleheads Anamosa, IA 319-462-6999
Pizza Ranch HARLAN 613 Court Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-755-2262 Check Us Out on Facebook Open 7 Days a Week Red Oak Tap 419 E. Reed Red Oak, Iowa 51566 712-623-4788
Good Lunch Specials, Cold Beer
Riverside Tavern 450 E Main St Lehigh, Iowa 50557 515-359-9998 Email:riversidetap@gmail.com
Lampe’s Pub 608 Iowa Avenue Dunlap, Iowa 51529 712-643-5781 Open 7 days a week at 11 AM
Sambetti’s Bar and Grill 1430 2nd Avenue Des Moines, Iowa 50314 515-245-9780 Mon-Sat 11a-2a, Sun 11a-7p
Mi Casa Family Restaurant 512 Market Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-755-2258 Enjoy Drinks at the Full Bar!
Scooters on Broadway 475 NE Broadway Des Moines, Iowa 515-288-1053 scootersonbroadway@hotmail.com
Like on FB Knuckleheads Pub & Grub Open 11-2 Seven Days a Week-New Ownership
Midway Tavern 206 1st Street Soldier, Iowa 712-884-2230 www.midwaytavernsoldier.com Minden Bowl Café & Lounge 209 Broadway Street Minden, Iowa 51553 712-483-2937 Minden Bowl on Facebook
The Buck Snort Restaurant & Sports Bar 25 Scott Street Council Bluffs, Iowa 51503 712-328-2825 The Buck Snort restaurant and sports bar on FB The Buck Snort 419 Sharp Street Glenwood, Iowa 51534 coming March 1st! The Buck Snort 113 4th Street Neola, Iowa 51559 712-485-9090 The Buck Snort on Facebook The Buck Snort Oakland 310 Dr Van Zee Road Oakland, Iowa 51560 712-355-5315 The Buck Snort Oakland on FB The Dog House 402 Main Street Colo, Iowa 50056-7720 Open 1st and 3rd Saturdays 641-485-8425
The Lounge 1005 Chatburn Ave Screaming Eagle American Bar & Grill Harlan, Iowa 51537 228 East 4th Street 712-755-5050 Waterloo, Iowa 50703 The Lounge Harlan Iowa on Facebook 319-235-8865 www.partyattheeagle.com The Place2B! 116 N. Federal Ave Shooters Bar Mason City, IA 50401 661 Main Anita, Iowa M-F 3p-2a S-S Noon-2a 712-249-7370 Find Us On Facebook Mon-Fri 3:00-Close Sat-Sun 10:00-Close
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The Roadhouse 105 Washington Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2272 Home of the Marne Burger The Sawmill Bar & Grill Now with a Full Menu 401 Main St New Market, IA 51646-3079 712-585-3601 Thirsty’s on 3rd 2202 W 3rd, Davenport 563-424-1143 Follow Us on Facebook Daily Thirst Quenching Deals T.J.’s Pourhouse 100 E. Washington Street Exira, Iowa 50076 712-268-2353 Open M-SAT.@11, SUN.@ NOON Tobey Jacks Mineola Steak House Mineola, Iowa 712-526-2078 Open 7 Days a Week Check Us Out on Facebook Uncle Harley’s Bar & Grill 202 W Mayne, Blue Grass (563)381-1717 Great Pizza & Food Bikers ALWAYS Welcome Vic’s Main Tap 304 Broadway Audubon, Iowa 50025 712-563-2122 Opens M-F 3, Sat 10, Sun 3 Whitetails Bar & Grill 101 N. Main St. Marble Rock IA,50653 641-397-9900 Mon.- Sat. 7am breakfast -2am Close www.whitetailsbarandgrill.com Wilson’s Tap and Recreation 1008 Story Street Boone, Iowa 50036/ 515-433-1395
Guns and Ammo 2A Firearms Training Training to Protect Your 2nd Ammendment Rights 641-439-6660 Craig.2aft@gmail.com McCunn Specialty Firearms 74980 Richland Road Massena, Iowa 50853 www.mccunnsguns.com 712-779-GUNS Stand Your Ground Firearms Sales and Service 2820 N Broadway Council Bluffs, Iowa 51503 712-435-9042
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Hair & Beauty Cutters Cave Hair Salon Call for Appointment-Walk Ins Welcome 2820 N Broadway Council Bluffs, Iowa 51503 712-322-2129
Insurance Farm Bureau Financial Services 208 Faith Ave Underwood, IA 51576 Shane.baker@fbfs.com 712-310-7475 or 402-379-3237
Legal Hupy and Abraham sc, pc Lawyers for Bikers 800.800.5678 Hupy.com IowaBikerLawyers.com Leehey Olson Law, PC Riding & Defending Your Rights for Over 30 Years 877-209-9452
Photo and Art Ullrich Photography PO Box 1842 Clinton, Iowa 52733 563-243-8715 www.natanic.com
Services A+ Affordable Heat, Air, Refrigeration & Geo Thermal 22274 Old Lincoln Hwy Crescent, Iowa 51526 712-329-9901
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Creative Concepts Collision 422 Market Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712.755.2231
AMSOIL Iowa Synthetics Iowa’s Leading Wholesale Distributor Guaranteed Low Prices 641-751-2893 www.iowasynthetics.com
Cycle Clinic 2209 ML King Pkwy Des Moines, Iowa 50314 cycleclinicdm.com 515-288-6954
BCS Computers 100 Industrial Road Guthrie Center, Iowa 50115 641-747-3344 www.brubakercomputer.com
Cycles Plus Bikes, ATVs, Snowmobiles 300 Walnut Street Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-243-3987
Hoker Trucking NOW HIRING Dixon, Iowa Hokertucking.com 563-843-2763 Irwin Locker & Catering 502 Ann Street Irwin, Iowa 51446 712-782-3215 irwinlocker@gmail.com
F & J Racing 701 N 3rd Ave Marshalltown, Iowa 50158 641-752-8651 www.fandjracing.com
Southwest Iowa Sandblasting Mike Magers 65162 Oxford Rd Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-249-3995
Machine Shop 6821 Fleur Drive Des Moines, Iowa 50321 515-285-4332 RIDE SAFE
Shops & Fabricators
Road Rage BikeWorks 401 High Street Avoca, Iowa 51521 712-307-6111 Road Rage BikeWorks on Facebook SS Collision, Cycle Works & Graphics 2902 11th Ave SW Spencer, Iowa 51301 712-262-3959 www.sscollision.com Steffens Cycle Shop LLC 1311 E 7th Street Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-243-3076 M-F 8-6 Most Sat 9-12 Or Call
Tattoo Skin Mechanix INKorpar8ted 117 No. 16th Street Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501 712 256-2847 Check Us Out on Facebook
TIRES
Motorcycle Medic 3176 Highway 30 Woodbine, Iowa 51579 712-647-2818 Open Tues-Sat Noon-6PM
Sandbothe Firestone 1106 Main Street Griswold, Iowa 51535 712-778-2223 Sandbothe Firestone on Facebook
Butterfield’s M.C. Parts 8025 Blondo Street Omaha, NE 68134 402-391-3768
Nelson Machine & Forge General Machining, Ornamental Iron, Weld/Fab 70 Washington Street Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2220
Vape
Chuck’s Cycle Service and Repair S&S and Drag Specialties Dealer 714 East 7th Street Washington, Iowa52353 319-461-5278
Pike Run Services 320 Main Nichols, Iowa 52766 Shop 319-723-4244 Cell 319-330-4541
Bent Wrench Cycles 911 7th Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-235-2453 Bent Wrench Cycles on Facebook
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The Fog Zone Vape Store 420 Chestnut Street Atlantic, Iowa, 50025 Facebook.com/fogzonestore 712-243-4024 To buy ad space for your business or service in our directory, give us call at 712-249-5630 or email vernon@ thunderroadsiowa.com
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no excuses
“Maureen, you two are crazy if you don’t go!” That admonition, made to Maureen and me some ten years ago, still rings in my ears today. Dick Lemon, a retired, crusty old Navy man with a big heart, was using his best blunt, sea-service argument to get us to sign up for a very inexpensive group cruise aboard one of Carnival’s cruise ships. Retired Navy guys, Dick and I were in Mobile, Alabama, with our wives attending a reunion of the USS BELKNAP Association. So, why not extend our stay a few more days and take advantage of a special Caribbean cruise my old Navy shipmates negotiated? Long story short--we took the cruise with 20 other shipmates and their spouses and family members and it was a hit for us. Maureen and I enjoyed good food, great scenery, new adventures and friendship not normally found ashore. I ended up burying my Navy bias against “ships with no guns, no missiles, and no point” and we became hooked. Since that first cruise we’ve taken others in the Caribbean and even an eleven-day cruise from Copenhagen, Denmark, to surrounding countries that included Russia. We discovered traveling is important to us and so is getting the best deal. We plan our adventures months in advance. This preplanning gives us the opportunity to look for the best hotel and travel deals, routes to take and stops to make. Shopping for the best deal has helped us enjoy short trips in Iowa and longer ones to Missouri, Tennessee, Niagara Falls, Key West, and even to HOT (Harley Owners Group Officers Training) in Atlanta, Milwaukee and Myrtle Beach. Preplanning really came in handy with our trips by motorcycle to Key West, the D-Day beaches at Normandy
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and taking the ferry across Lake Michigan to Milwaukee.
Besides, preplanning allows us to play “what if?” games. It was a “what if” game that snagged us $239 round trip tickets from Des Moines to Paris, France, over Valentine’s Day one year. We can’t do that now, but I know where to find round trip Paris tickets for around $460 each so deals are out there, if you are willing to look, be creative, ask for deals and discounts, and be flexible. It is cold right now in Iowa and the perfect time to play “what if?” and plan your next adventure during warm weather (or warmer weather). Get involved and help your motorcycle buddies plan rides this spring, summer and fall. Plan your rides that can include only you, your spouse, or your friends. Look at overnight rides to Lake of the Ozarks, Awesome Biker Nights in Sioux City, Sturgis, Laconia, Milwaukee, or Tail of the Dragon. Heck, look at solo rides to a location and find flights (or even buses) so your spouse or friend can fly in and join you. Options abound. Planning future trips allows Maureen and me to focus and anticipate on doing something very fun. It gets us out of the cold humdrum of regular life and onto our bikes and into the warm breeze even if the weather says we can’t ride. Dick Lemon was a good friend. He’s gone now, but I can still hear his deep, gruff voice. Using very few words he was always able to make his point and be completely understood. He didn’t waste words so I won’t either: Start planning your next motorcycle adventure right now! Friend, you are crazy if you don’t! Dick Tremain
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From: Mechanix Illustrated Motorcycle Book Order Number 113
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99 Counties to tour on the bike, 99 counties to tour, take one down, drive on around, 18 counties to tour on the bike. A few years back, a summer riding goal was to ride through each one of the counties of Iowa, and what was found was a wealth of interest and beauty. Each month we will revisit each county as a featured article. We will tell you about new things to see, places to ride, and give you a little spark of touring curiosity for our state of Iowa.
and heard all over this great state of Iowa. I had to stop in to chat with Jeff when I was in the area, and he gave me some ideas for other Scott County pearls.
After Dixon I headed east and south to Long Grove. The town’s annual celebration represents Long Grove’s claim to fame: The Strawberry Festival. Held the second Sunday each June, the day kicks off at 9 am with the Strawberry Stampede. Area strawberry farmers sell Scott County strawberries, there are games for children, a children’s Strawberry Pageant, Trivia Contest, Raffle, Strawberry I rolled across Interstate Cooking Contest, petting zoo, pony rides, wagon rides, 80 and entered Scott and a variety of entertainment groups throughout the County, and one of the day. Community organizations provide a wide variety first big things you see is of food choices. Strawberry shortcake, ice cream, the World’s Largest Truck kettle corn and other foods are available throughout Stop at exit 284. This the day. Another attraction is the Alexander Brownlie place is located between Sod House, on the city’s north side. The sod house was Walcott and Plainview, built by the Brownlie Brothers dates from Iowa’s prairie and it has quite the days of the 1830s. I crossed 61 and went through Park menagerie of fuel, food, shopping, and all things travel View and then headed north. Located approximately related. Iowa 80 Truck stop features eight restaurant six miles north and east of Long Grove is the Dan Nagle choices, a convenience store, gift store, Super Truck Walnut Grove Pioneer Village, at the north edge of Showroom, barber shop, chiropractor, dentist, movie Scott County Park. The theater, workout room, laundry facilities, gas islands, village, a re-creation of diesel fuel center, truck service center, Truckomat a 1860s Scott County truck wash, Dogomat pet wash, CAT Scale, 24- private cross-roads settlement showers, trucking museum and more! Since it opened and stage coach, is in 1964, it has been open 24 hours a day, seven days a made up of 18 historic week without ever closing. buildings including an old church, a bank, a train After taking in the truck stop, I headed up the road depot and boardwalk through Plain View and Maysville, and then to Donahue. of shops. Scott County The county roads were nice and off the big road Scott Park is a 1,280-acre County actually has some very nice rolling hills and county park that offers curvy Iowa scenic roads. Going through these few numerous amenities and small burgs showed a very different view of Scott camping facilities. It can County than is normally seen in the Quad Cities Metro be accessed from areas. I found a place called The Depot to grab some Veterans Highway food, and you can see more about that on the WRTE aka Cody Trail, aka page in this issue. Donahue is also home to the ABATE Scott Park Road, of Iowa D15 Too Broke for Sturgis rally in August; I am same road with sure many of you have heard about it. There is also a different names. plethora of antique shops in Donahue for small town Iowa, so a good place to ride to go find some cool old After leaving stuff. the park I rolled over through After some food and drink I headed up the road McCausland. It to Dixon, and had to check out the biggest tourist was about time attraction, a Pepsi Machine in the middle of town. for something to Turbo at The Depot in Donahue talked about this drink, so had to machine as the gathering point, the talk of the town, stop in to the place with the most a pop machine with its own identity, and a local joke interesting sign, The Lucky Frog. that may even have its own Facebook page. Small I am guessing because they are town Iowa is a big part of this series, and stuff like this so close to a big river, and a little cannot be made up. Another place just north or Dixon river, that they have that particular you may have heard of, on a hilly curvy road, is Hoker moniker, but the owner Jason and Trucking. Jeff and Penny Hoker own this business, crew were more than welcome and are always on the lookout for truck drivers. They to sit and chat with a biker. They are local D15 ABATE folks, as well as both holding stated that they have many riders positions at the State level with ABATE and can be seen that stop in when getting out of Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook www.thunderroadsiowa.com 20 - TRMI MARCH 2017
the metro, and that the Lucky Frog is a great place for poker runs and the like.
I headed south into the metro area and one of the first things of notice that I think is cool is the Arsenal at Rock Island. This 946 acre island in the Mississippi I ran through Princeton, and although I had heard in between Davenport and Rock Island, IL, and is of this little village, I had never stopped. As I was technically in Illinois, but certainly noteworthy in traveling right along the river now, I thought it this neck of the woods. It is home of First Army necessary to find a place open right on the shore of headquarters. The island was originally established the Mississippi. Go Fish seemed a fitting name for as a government site in 1816, with the building of this cool place with a great view of the river. I chatted Fort Armstrong. It is now the largest governmentwith Bobbi Jo for a bit, and she was very helpful in owned weapons manufacturing arsenal in the United pointing out some cool stuff for Scott County. This is a States. It has manufactured military equipment and great place right on the river to be able to sit and eat ordnance since the 1880s. Established as both an and drink no matter the season or whether indoors or arsenal and a center for the manufacture of leather outside if the temperature allows. Also home here is accoutrements and field gear, today it provides the Buffalo Bill Cody homestead. manufacturing, logistics, and base support services for the Armed Forces. The Arsenal is the only active I rolled south again on 67 and had to run into a few U.S. Army foundry, and manufactures ordnance and places in LeClaire. It seems that if you like alcohol or equipment, including artillery, gun mounts, recoil antiques, LeClaire is the town for you! Old stuff and mechanisms, small arms; aircraft weapons sub-systems, liquor abound in this little river town a stone’s throw grenade launchers, weapons simulators, and a host of away from the Quad Cities. The Beirstube is obviously associated components. Some of the Arsenal’s most a place with a German theme, but sits in a great place successful products include the M198 and M119 towed with a view of the river for food and drink. Nick the howitzers, and the M1A1 gun mount. About 250 military manager was a friendly cuss with a gift of gab. Also personnel and 6,000 civilians work there. Down river Big Dave and Holly’s is a little mom and pop place from the arsenal is Credit Island. This island derived for some vittles, also right along 67 with a view of the its name from early Indian trading times where big water. There are also many wineries, breweries, trappers could get credit for future delivered hides and and distilleries that can get you just about any kind of skins. There is much history to this island, including libation you have a hankering for. LeClaire is home a M103 tank hidden in among the trees. An item from of the tug fest which is an annual rope pull across the the 1950’s, this US Army M103 Heavy Tank, built and river between Port Byron, IL and LeClaire. Antique fielded to counter the Soviet tank threat in Europe, was Archeology pulled from deployment in 1959. This unit was given is also to the then Davenport Park Commission in the 1960s. located in Placed on Credit Island Park it was originally near LeClaire. the children playground and was a target of anti-war This is protestors with anti-Vietnam war slogans painted on its where the sides. The children’s playground is now moved away picking leaving the tank alone in the trees. dynamic duo from While in Davenport, most certainly had to stop by the popular Wiebler’s Harley Davidson and as normal was greeted show by one of the friendliest shop staff members around. American Looked through and found some of my favorite office Pickers got décor items, and then looked at the new bikes on the their start floor. A few degrees warmer and it may have been a together, test drive day! Thirsty’s on Third seemed like a great and TRMI place to get a late afternoon cold beverage, and this was there biker friendly hangout is a good one to stop at! I years ago headed for the county line, and had to make one last for an pit stop in Blue Grass at Uncle Harley’s Bar and Grill. interview Blue Grass is partially in Muscatine and Scott counties, with them but had to swing by while in the area. With daylight for the and time running low, I had to head out of Scott County. magazine. You can check it out yourself, and look for anything Since then else you can find in Scott County. Thanks to Nate, Ryan, Frank Fritz and Pinky for the help on this month’s feature. If you has been a find something else cool, let us know about it so we can good friend see it also! Join us next month for Shelby County. of ours and the References are available upon request. magazine. Vernon@thunderroadsiowa. He now has his own shop up com the road in Savanna, IL called Vernon Schwarte Frank Fritz Finds, although not Scott County, and not even Iowa, still a worthy stop in the area. Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook
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bike out for the season, I instantly have plenty of gas to get some of that wind we all talk about. I have never tried fogging the cylinders. Does it work? I guess if someone feels it does, let them do it. Who are we to tell anyone what to do with their ride? I know a couple people who don’t even put their bike in a shed or garage. It’s their bike, let em do whatever they want. I do prefer to give mine a roof over it. March, the month where the official start of spring occurs, St Patty’s Day is coming up and tons of people like to partake of green beer for some reason, and if any of you are like me, winter has worn out its welcome. Since my last rant, our new Commander in Chief has been shaking up a lot of things. Guess what? I’m not even going to talk about any of that.
My whole point to this rambling, is certain groups on social media, seem to crucify people who simply ask if what they are doing for winter storage is the right thing to do; instead of offering constructive advice, it seems to be the norm to make the person asking the question feel like a moron. It happens all the time, or we see someone get pretty insulting because of the brand of bike someone rides. Brand loyalty is great, but difference of opinion is greater. Riding a motorcycle is one of the greatest feelings I know. Why would someone choose to take that enjoyment away from someone, simply because of the brand they ride or the style of bike they ride? IT’S THE SAME WIND !!!!!!
Old man winter still has his grip on us but if you take a good look at the way this winter has been, do we really have that much to complain about? Some of you have actually gotten some time behind the bars this winter; had I not relocated out here in the middle of nowhere, I might be able to join my brothers and sisters who have been getting some riding in. Someone decided to pile a bunch of snow in front of the shed where my bagger has been tucked away since the end of December, no names mentioned, and with the ice extending the full length of my 1/4 mile driveway, I’d need to add skis and a track to get out anyway.
We’ve got just a short amount of time before riding season begins. Take the time to look your ride over. Tighten everything up, check your tire tread and air pressure. Check your brake pads, lights, controls, and your fluids. Nothing could be worse than rolling out your ride for the maiden voyage of the season, only to discover a mechanical issue. If there is an issue, correct it. The attitude that it can wait is a gamble with your life. We have a tough enough time keeping cages off our backs when riding; let’s not endanger ourselves further by not being prepared. We are all brothers and sisters of the wind. We are family. Look out for each other and ourselves.
As much as we complain about winter, how many of you have enough gray in your beard, or on your head (ladies), to remember the winters of the mid 70’s? We’ve all heard the stories and seen the photos but some of us actually were there. I remember all the snow, the being stuck on the farm for weeks, and having to get to the paved road a mile away to meet the school bus every day. We didn’t get many snow days back then. I blame society for the willingness to blame somebody else when something happens. Our schools are not willing to take responsibility for the safety of our children when the weather gets rough. Enough of that. How many of us are looking over our scooters during this down time? How many have tucked them away with the battery tender plugged in? How many add Stabil, fog the cylinders , and remove the battery? How many of us have spent a ridiculous amount of money to purchase one of those climate controlled bubbles to keep our toy safe and warm. For the sake of argument, I’ll tell you what I do; I do not remove the battery, it stays right where it was all riding season. I will go out and plug the tender in once a month, or when I remember, just to get the battery charged, or maybe I’ll just start the bike. I’ve heard good and bad stories about tenders. I don’t claim to know what the best is. I top off the gas tank too. The main reason is so when I roll my 22 - TRMI MARCH 2017
A lot of us have been riding for many years. Even with our experience, the downtime of winter is long enough to allow the rust to build up. I’m talking about the rust on our riding skills. Don’t just hop on and go balls to the wall right out of the gate . Give yourself some time to get used to riding again. Your bike will appreciate it, and you will too. As I close this rant, I see the weather is broadcasting a winter storm for much of the state. Like I said earlier, Old man winter isn’t willing to give up yet. Keep fighting it Jack Frost, it’s inevitable that the snow will melt, and warmer days will return. Until that day, keep dreaming of the rumble of the pipes and the WARM wind in your face. See ya’ll down the road !!!!!
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Wildman Gary “Wildman” Emery District 8 Coordinator ABATE of Iowa Solo Adventures Outdoor Skills and Survival School Thunder Roads of Iowa
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Metro Harley-Davison in Cedar Rapids held their Super Hero’s Party and raffle bike unveiling on January 14TH. The super hero theme for the evening was fitting as they had a wonderful announcement to make about the Children’s Hospital at University of Iowa. In the past two years the raffle bikes provided by Metro H-D have raised $142,000 for the Children’s Hospital. After the bike was unveiled they also made the announcement that the prior donations were used to completely renovate an entire room in the children’s wing. Room 620 is now known as the Metro Motor Madness Room thanks to the super heroes who donated and to Metro H-D. This year’s raffle bike is a customized 2017 Road Glide. Custom paint was done by Scott Takes at Underground Art and equipped with more options than the Batmobile. For only $10 per ticket you can have a chance at taking home this amazing bike, and help out a great cause in the process. Check out all the details at www. metroharley-davidson.com and stop by Metro Harley-Davidson or call 319-362-9496 to buy your tickets today!
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taking home this amazing bike, and help out a great cause in the process. Check out all the details at www. metroharley-davidson.com and stop by Metro Harley-Davidson or call 319-362-9496 to buy your tickets today!
We want you on our pages! If you are an Iowa Girl of Thunder, send us a quality image, your name, year and model of bike, and where you are from to: vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
Tanya Raske 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King Prairie City
Barb Orr 2007 Honda Shadow Muscatine
Amber Broeker 2003 Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Van Meter 26 - TRMI MARCH 2017
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March brings us the early stages of spring, and for the March Military Rider page we introduce to you Art “Sandman” Tousignant from Mount Pleasant in SE Iowa. Art served this great nation in the United States Army from 1984 until 2008. While in the Army he served as a First Sergeant and Detachment Sergeant Major, but retired as Sergeant First Class. For a vast majority of his career he was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Art completed combat tours in Panama, Desert Shield/Desert Storm, and Iraq during his many years of service. When we asked Art about Military service being part of his family history, he stated that his father was in the Army in the 50’s and 60’s, as well as most of his uncles served our country, and his wife is a Veteran as well. There have been many years of service to our country by this family for sure. Art’s main jobs in the Army was starting out as a combat engineer (12B) and later became a construction equipment repairer (62B) after being injured. Art has been on quite a variety of styles and brands of motorcycles in his riding career. His first bike was a 1974 Yamaha 250 Enduro, then a 1967 Triumph, a 1966 Aeromachii 250cc Super Sprint, then a 1976 Harley-Davidson Sportster. Currently he rides a 1966 Harley-Davidson FLB, a 2002 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, a 1975 Harley-Davidson Sportster, a 1971 HarleyDavidson 90cc, a 1972 Harley-Davidson 250cc Sprint, a 1968 Honda CL175 as well as they are building two bikes; a 1973 Sportster in a late GMA/Santee frame and a 1979 Sportster in an early 1970’s Denver Choppers Swingtail frame. Art was without motorcycles for a while during his military career though, and when asked why he stated “I was deploying a lot and went through two divorces. I was in an abusive relationship with Uncle Sam and made some very bad decisions!” as he chuckled. He has been around motorcycles since he was eight or nine years old, but got back into riding after his wife, Ms. Heidi, surprised him with a 1975 Harley-Davidson Sportster as a gift. A few months later another surprise came in the form of the 1966 FLB. I would say that is a couple of damn nice surprises! His latest ride is the one that they are building right now. It’s a late GMA/Santee goose necked frame with a 1973 Harley-Davidson Sportster drivetrain and an AAE girder front end. Art saved it from going to a salvage yard near Marion, Illinois and is able to put some more old iron back on the road. We asked him why he chose this bike as a project, and he stated, “I’m a veteran with
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PTSD. The frame is an old hardtail; stretched, low, twisted, hard to control and certainly isn’t something just anyone could handle, kind of everything that describes PTSD, it spoke to me. It needed a second chance at a new life.” Other plans for the already highly modified ride include Rickey Anderson at Kustom Colors in Mount Pleasant that is going to lay down some wicked old school psychedelic paint, and Art is going to cut the rocker boxes and make a Franken-head motor out of it along with some hand engraving. Art states that his calendar stays pretty full between bike shows, Veterans events, going all over Iowa, hitting the Freedom Rally, Romper Room Run, three Combat Veteran Motorcycle Association Annual Patriot Runs, and Hell on Wheels Vintage Chopper Fest, as well as the CVMA run to San Diego this summer. He is the State Representative for CVMA in Iowa, and their moto is “Vets Helping Vets” and that is what he and their group do! Needless to say he has many friends that ride and will ride with just about anyone, no matter what they ride. Art wanted to add “It was an honor to be able to serve what I feel is the greatest nation in the world, and I’d do it all over again! Kind of pains me when folks talk bad about our country. I have to remember they haven’t been the places or seen the things my Brothers and Sisters in Arms have. They don’t seem to have the same appreciation for America. I jumped out of perfectly good airplanes and travelled all over the world! Now I get to help other veterans and their families and build and rebuild old vintage choppers. That’s part of the reason I don’t have a bucket list! Everyone dies, but few of us have actually lived! As for my bikes, the vintage choppers are a passion. They are great teachers. Each one takes on a life of its own, derived from the blood, sweat and tears of the builder.” Thanks to you Art for your service from all of us at Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa. Without your dedication, service, and commitment, we could not do what we are doing now. Vernon
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I took a vow to maintain a positive attitude throughout the entire off season. Since this off season has lasted a little longer than I expected, maintaining a positive attitude has become a major challenge. So I’m only going to say this once, Punxsutawney Phil was a major disappointment again this year. The question I have is, what happened to the “alternative facts” on the ground hog day? I would have been thrilled to hear that spring would be early this year. Apparently the “alternative fact” people aren’t capable of thinking quickly enough to lie about a rodent.
of my favorites is, “I don’t ride until its warm enough to ride in a tee-shirt”. There is plenty of good riding gear on the market that will make riding sooner than that quite comfortable. The “alternative facts” any biker who says that doesn’t own a jacket.
March has finally arrived! Along with it comes a lot of great things. The TRMI Tall Corn Run will be kicking off again this year in April and that’s pretty cool that you can win prizes for riding. The days are getting longer, which means more sunshine and it brings along with it higher temperatures, so kickstands will be going up again and all will be right in the world. Unless of course you believe in “alternative facts” and in that case the travel ban you have heard so much about includes bikers.
My brain needs some wind therapy, it is starting to feel really soggy! I’m pretty sure that some fresh air would dry out my brain and free my mind from the last 4 months of clutter. Surely I am not the only Iowa Biker feeling this way. I decided that since spring is not getting here quick enough that I needed to take matters into my own hands. In preparation of the first big ride, I fired up the air compressor. I realize it might be a little premature but at this point in the off season anything I can do that is bike related helps to dull that itch. I managed to perfectly adjust the air pressure in both tires before my warped brain came up with a hair brained plan of an ingenious way to mimic a refreshing ride. So I turned the air hose loose on myself. My sick mind found 80 PSI to the face rather refreshing. I’ve been bragging about the “alternative facts’ for about a week now, it was the best blow job I’ve had in months.
I saw a guy out riding the other day apparently he didn’t own a jacket, he was wearing jeans and a sweat shirt, no gloves, no leather, not even a hat on his head. It was approximately 34 degrees with 20 mile an hour wind. Now I’m not an expert, but I figure temperature plus wind chill would calculate to somewhere around 20 degrees. The Ok enough of that, hang on tight we are throttling back to “alternative facts” are he was smiling, so apparently he my positive attitude now. likes gonads the size of peanuts.
I was reading a bike related article the other day and stumbled onto a confession from a fellow rider. It is one that I’m sure many of us have heard before. The good old, I don’t get the bike out until after the first rainfall washes away the sand. Now, I have nothing against bikers with this belief so save the hate mail. At times I have practiced it myself, but then there are other times that the fuse on my patience is just too damn short to wait for rain. So I developed what I like to call the witness protection program and I ride alone until after the first big rain. Even though traveling on the spring sand can get a little tricky in “alternative fact” world the sand is not always the problem, the witnesses are. Another one 32 - TRMI MA M RCH 2017 MARCH
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The time has finally arrived, get the bikes ready to go, dig out the riding gear, get yourself signed up for the Tall Corn Run, pray for rain if you have to have it to ride, whatever turns you on because spring is around the curve and the “alternative facts” are that no riding season last forever in Iowa. Shifty LaRue
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“If I had a Million dollars……” We’re not riding yet this year, which allows us plenty of time to dream about motorcycles. The ones we have, and the ones we’d buy if we could. I had an inspiration the other day, what if I had a million dollars to spend, which bikes would I buy? It was a fun idea, so I ran with it. I’d start with an old flat head Harley. There’s just something about them, the history behind them, and their simple design. Besides, Clapper likes them, and that makes them cool too. So let’s throw one of those in the cart. While we’re looking at early bikes, I’m going to insist on an inline 4 cylinder Indian. They made a lot of great old Indians, but the look of the inline 4 engine is unique in the entire motorcycle world. One more from that time period would have to be an old Crocker. They didn’t make many Crockers, and there are very few left in any condition. I read an article about a guy that had made a sweet little bobber out of one. He got a lot of crap for it at first, but his explanation was perfect- he didn’t have enough parts to make a complete original bike. And he didn’t want to spend years and years searching for the little bits and pieces for that bike, which are made of pure unobtanium. He wanted one to ride and enjoy. So he sold off the pieces he didn’t need, to some very grateful collectors, and made the rest into a fun little bike. I see nothing wrong with that, and the bike was beautiful. If you are not familiar with them, the engine of the Crocker looks like a Knucklehead on steroids, similar but taller, with a graceful rocker design inset into the head that says “Crocker”, a really unique and artistic design. While we’re on the topic of Knuckles, absolutely. The Europeans have run the prices up on old Knucks to the point that they are out of reach of all but the most devoted collectors, but we’ve got a million to blow, so sure, let’s get a Knuckle. That motor, along with the Flathead Ford V8, have the reputation of being some of the most beautiful internal combustion motors every made. Better get one. I’ll add a ’69 Shovel with the Panhead lowers. And since we just said Panhead- yep. Better have one too. I’ll go shopping for a square 4 Ariel next, another terrific looking motor on a rare bike. Nate has one, and I want one too.
Ducati. They don’t look like any other bike, and they don’t sound like any other bike. I have a friend in Chicago that keeps one in his living room, on a center mount race stand. Mostly, it gets polished. He’s an old fart like me, and readily admits he’ll never be able to ride it to its full potential, and he mainly has it to look at. He’s told me more than once he’d love to mount it on the wall under spot lights. I fully expect to go to Curt’s house some day and see exactly that, he’s a pretty clever fellow. Now how about a one off bike or two, some radical designs or prototype? Well look no further than Kenny “Von Dutch” Howard, who built a pair of motorcycles with an air cooled VW bug motor for power. Dutch is one of my heroes. He got hired by a Hollywood studio to provide a mythical 1920’s car called the “Winston” for a movie. Rather than just change some body panels around and fab up some emblems, he built the entire son a bitch by hand in his shop. Anyhow, the two VW powered bikes still exist, and they are both in the same museum. They don’t need both, and we should still have plenty of money left right? Finally, I’m going to tee up for a Brammo Impulse. It’s a new bike, 100% electric powered and not wimpy electric powered, but the fast kind. And now we should have just enough money left for a big steel pole shed to keep them in. Wait, what’s that noise? Its reality calling. I don’t have the million, and it’s time to go back to work. Thanks for pretending with me, and I’ll see you soon on the road, with the only bike I’ve got.
We’re building a collection, so we’d better have an Asian bike or two. I’ll find a Z1 900 Kaw, the original muscle bike, and still a terror at the dragstrip and track. The first year they ran one at Daytona, it broke the previous record by 19.54 miles an hour, a record which had previously been broken in low single digit increments. And just because it was so unusual, I’ll get a CBX1000 Honda. If you don’t know what that is, it’s worth looking up on the internet. It was an inline six cylinder bike, with the six set crossways in the frame like the Honda 4’s. Coming at you, it’s all motor and exhaust pipes. The early bikes were really fast, and could turn 11 Mark Mullins, President, MAG second quarter mile times and still run as smooth as silk all day. They’re rare and getting rarer by the day, they were only built for 4 seasons. On to more modern times, I’ll pick a first year Fat Boy. My neighbor has one; I love to look at it. The yellow bands around the heads were a one year only feature, designed to look like military bombs according to legend. A Harley café will have to be on the list, and yes they made one. I know a guy that’s got one stashed. It was never going to be for sale, but we’ve got a million to work with right? Now, I need a 36 - TRMI MARCH 2017
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The Depot
wonderful, but that the grilled loin comes out so tender and juicy that it is hard to beat, so I took her word for it. I was also intrigued by the deviled egg accompanying every meal on the menu, and she stated that came from the owners growing up and remembering all of the family gathering involved someone making deviled eggs, and that even with their own bar and grill, they should carry on that tradition because they want their customers to feel like family. This was an incredibly unique touch.
101 South Main Street Donahue, Iowa 52746 563-282-2222
After a very short wait, the food was delivered hot and steamy and looking delicious. The deviled egg was served in a little plastic condiment cup that kept it from upsetting and getting egg all over the rest of the meal. The fries had a Running around Scott post fryer sprinkle of what appeared to be a seaCounty and rolled through soned salt and pepper mixture, and the tenderthe little burg of Donahue loin was looking good enough to eat with dark around time for some vitgrill marks contrasting with the white pork meat tles, luckily I ran across The and a few of the seasonings on the surface still Depot. Donahue is in what visyou would call northwestern ible. Scott County, in that it is The west of 61 and north of 80. egg Donahue is also known for was the ABATE D15 Too Broke the for Sturgis Rally the first part of August. As it was below first freezing, and about 230 miles from home, I was in the truck, to go, but this area would be nice to ride around on a motorcycle and for sure. Just far enough away from the Quad Cities but was a close enough to big roads if you need to get somewhere. very This is one of those perfect little spots for a place to have a tasty drink, get some great food, and avoid the hustle and bustle devof metro life. iled egg with a unique flavor. Of course I was not able to get the family recipe, but that is ok because I will be back! I walked in and thought that obviously a place called the The French Fries were done perfect with a great ratio of Depot must have a train décor, and this is no exception. crunchy exterior and puffy white soft interior, with a perfect Despite the age of the building, it has recently been refurbished with modern amenities and design, but keeping some seasoning mix. The tenderloin came with the normal sandwich topper items, but I cheated and cut off a portion of the elements such as wooden roof support columns and plenty of railroad signage and such for décor. I was greeted when I meat to try it alone, and it was perfect just with the bun and came in by a gal affectionately known as “Turbo” and took no other toppers. No lettuce, no sauce, no pickles needed. This was a tender and juicy bit of Iowa pork heaven. I am a seat at the end of the bar so that I could take in the sights sure the “salad” that comes with it would have been fine, of the place. The place was nice and clean, and although but totally not needed to make a great sandwich. A pickle seemed rather upscale for a small town of less than 400 spear on the side completed the meal, and then finish my souls, it was welcoming. There were many others sitting drink and off for more adventure in Scott County. If you are down for a noon meal and just guessing from attire, there ever in the area, make sure you stop to see Turbo and hit up were farmers, bikers, contractors, and business folk alike The Depot in Donahue, you won’t be disappointed. sitting and having food and drink. I was able to chat with different people and despite being an outsider, the staff and Taking place for Craig this month. patrons were very friendly and welcoming. Vernon. Described as a place that serves traditional American food, Until next month, ride safe and eat hearty! burgers, and sandwiches, I opted for the waitress’s recomPS If you have someplace you think we should check out in mendation of grilled tenderloin sandwich, with the normal accompaniments of fries and even a deviled egg. She stated your neck of the woods, shoot me an email. craig@thunderthat either the grilled or breaded version of the sandwich are roadsiowa.com 38 - TRMI MARCH 2017
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Q: What do you call a fake stone in Ireland? A: A sham rock. Attending a wedding for the first time, a little girl whispered to her mother, “Why is the bride dressed in white?” “Because white is the color of happiness, and today is the happiest day of her life.” The child thought about this for a moment, then said, “So why is the groom wearing black?”
he ccould ould ou ld d oon n hi hiss la laptop appt and even placing numerous air-toground ggrrou ound nd phone phonne calls trying to find the answer. Finally, angry angr an gryy an gr and d frustrated, he gave up and paid the blonde blon bl onde on de $$50.00 5 The blonde put the $50 into her purse purr without comment, but the lawyer ppu insisted, in in “What is the answer to your question?” q Without saying a word, the blonde b handed him $5. Q: Q Why can’t you borrow money from a leprechaun? lep A: A: Because they’re always a little short. A blonde b girl was talking to her redhead friend fr rie ien about her boyfriend’s dandruff ppr problem. roobbl The redhead says “Why don’t you gi give ivvee him Head and Shoulders?” The blonde replies, “How do you give shoulders?”
Q: Why do people wear shamrocks on St. P Patrick’s attriick ck’’s ’s Day? A: Regular rocks are too heavy. A little boy was attending his first wedding. After the service, his cousin asked him, “How many women can a man marry?” “Sixteen,” the boy responded. His cousin was amazed that he knew the answer so quickly. “How do you know that?” “Easy,” the little boy said. “All you have to do is add it up, like the Preacher said: 4 better, 4 worse, 4 richer, 4 poorer.” Q: What did the light bulb say to the switch? A: You turn me on. Grandpas IPod “You’re So Varicose Vein” by Carly Simon “How Can You Mend A Broken Hip?” by the Bee Gees “I Can’t See Clearly Now” by Johnny Nash “These Boots Give Me Arthritis” by Nancy Sinatra “Once, Twice, Three Trips to the Bathroom” by the Commodores “I Get By with a Little Help from Depends” by the Beatles “Talking’ Bout My Medication” by the Who “Bald Thing” by the Troggs “You Can’t Always Pee When You Want” by the Rolling Stones “I Heard It through the Grape Nuts” by Marvin Gaye Q: How did the Irish Jig get started? A: Too much to drink and not enough restrooms! There was a blonde who found herself sitting next to a Lawyer on an airplane. The lawyer just kept bugging the blonde wanting her to play a game of intelligence. Finally, the lawyer offered her 10 to 1 odds, and said every time the blonde could not answer one of his questions, she owed him $5, but every time he could not answer hers, he’d give her $50.00. The lawyer figured he could not lose, and the blonde reluctantly accepted. The lawyer first asked, “What is the distance between the Earth and the nearest star?” Without saying a word the blonde handed him $5. Then the blonde asked, “What goes up a hill with 3 legs and comes back down the hill with 4 legs?” Well, the lawyer looked puzzled. He took several hours, looking up everything 44 - TRMI MARCH 2017
Q: What did the boy octopus say to the girl octopus? A: Can I hold your hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand? An angry wife was complaining about her husband spending all his free time in a bar, so one night he took her along with him. “What’ll you have?” he asked. “Oh, I don’t know. The same as you I suppose,” she replied. So, the husband ordered a couple of Jack Daniel’s and threw his down in one shot. His wife watched him, then took a sip from her glass and immediately spat it out. “Yuck, that’s TERRIBLE!” she spluttered. “I don’t know how you can drink this stuff!” “Well, there you go,” cried the husband. “And you think I’m out enjoying myself every night!” Q: Why do leprechauns have pots o’gold? A: They like to “go” first class! Two Irish mothers, Kate and Lorna were talking about their sons. Kate says, ‘My Patrick is such a saint. He works hard, doesn’t smoke, and he hasn’t so much as looked at a woman in over two years.’ Lorna responds, ‘Well, my Francis is a saint himself. Not only hasn’t he not looked at a woman in over three years, but he hasn’t touched a drop of liquor in all that time.’ ‘My word,’ says Kate, ‘You must be so proud.’ ‘I am,’ announces Lorna, ‘and when he’s paroled next month, I’m going to throw him a big party.’ The local District Judge had given the defendant a lecture on the evils of drink. But in view of the fact that this was the first time the man had been drunk and incapable, the case was dismissed on payment of ten shillings costs. “Now don’t let me ever see your face again,” said the Justice sternly as the defendant turned to go. “I’m afraid I can’t promise that, sir,” said the released man. “And why not?” Because I’m the barman at your regular pub! 1st Irish Farmer: My cow fell down a hole and I had to shoot it. 2nd Irish Farmer: Did you shoot it in the hole? First Irish Farmer: No, in the head.
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A.B.A.T.E. of Iowa’s Share the Road Program By: D.L. Peterson Abate of Iowa’s Share the Road Program, for those of you that don’t know you are probably asking what is Share the Road? Share the Road is all about teaching the new drivers to watch out for Motorcycles. We go into Drivers Ed Classes, Company Safety meetings or any place that wants us to talk about Motorcycle safety. Presentations can be from 15 min. to an hour long depending on the needs of who we are presenting for. Most of our presentations are done for High school Drivers Ed classes and our presentations are geared towards new drivers. Our Asst. Share the Road Coordinator Megan Eimers has been working on a presentation that is geared for the adult audience and we look forward to its completion.
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comfortable enough to do a complete presentation and you will be an Abate of Iowa Share the Road Presenter. For those that have been around for the past few years you have been hearing me talk about redoing the Illinois video. I am proud to announce that after getting permission from Abate of Illinois we have finally produced a final product. This video is the product of the hard work of many people; Megan Eimers, Mackenzie Schindler, Douglas Smith did the acting; Living Dream Films did the filming and editing. It was filmed at Freedom Park on the Riders Ed range to show off our Range. With that I would like to thank Abate of Iowa’s Riders Ed program for their help and use of their equipment for this product. This Video was produced by Abate of Iowa with the cooperation of Abate of Illinois for the use of anyone who wants to use it. Abate of Iowa’s Share the Road program’s main goal is to make all roads safer for riders everywhere. All of the dedicated people that have worked so hard for so many years have earned my thanks and I hope the thanks of everyone that has traveled the roads that I feel Share the Road has made a little safer.
The Share the Road program is the product of a great many people’ss hard work. Share the Road in Iowa was started many years ago by Lee McCubbin since ce then there has only been 6 Share the Road Coordinators, ordinators, D.C. Bear Richardson, R.C. Adams, Jack & Carolyn Gordy, Bill Gillespe, Wayne Wierson erson & Sharon Stone-Husman and now to me with Megan Eimers as my Assistant. The program has as had many different presenters over the years spread d out all ll over the h state, but the program currently has 40 active presenters with 6 or so past presenters that I know I could call on if needed and 5 that are in the training process. As all volunteer programs we are always in need of people that want to help. Becoming an Abate of Iowa Share the Presenter is as simple as getting in touch with a current active presenter, Megan or me. You tag along to a couple presentations to get the feel of how one goes. Once you feel comfortable enough to get involved with the presentation you can do just as much as you feel you can handle. Then it’s just as simple as getting
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We are always in search of o people that w want to get involved with the program and if you feel this is something you w would like to check out feel free to contact me at dlpeterson@abate dlpeterson@abateiowa.org or Megan Eimers at meganjoi@ meg hotmail.com or any of the current Share the Road presenters. presenters ROAD. Remember SHARE THE R
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Mar 3-5 Mar 4 Mar 5 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 17-19 Mar 18 Mar 25 Mar 25 Mar 25 Mar 25-26 Apr 1-2 Apr 1-2 Apr 2 Apr 7-8 Apr 8 Apr 15 Apr 15 Apr 22 Apr 28-30 Apr 29 Apr 30 May 5-6 May 6 May 6 May 6 May 7 May 13 May 13 May 14 May 19 May 20 May 20 May 20 May 20 May 20 May 20 May 21 May 25-28 May 28 Jun 3 Jun 3 Jun 3 Jun 3 Jun 4 Jun 9-10 Jun 10 Jun 10 Jun 10 Jun 10 Jun 10 Jun 16-18 Jun 17 Jun 17 Jun 23-24 Jun 24
World of Wheels Chicago Bikes at the Brewery La Crosse, WI Parts Girl Promotions Swap Meet Cedar Rapids Spring Cleaning Event Metro HD Cedar Rapids Fashion Show Big Barn HD Des Moines Flipping for B.A.C.A Charity Tournament West Des Moines TRMI Motorcycle Show at World of Wheels Omaha ABATE D3 Spring Dance Jerry’s Exira Fenders Cycle/Indian of Des Moines Spring Open House ABATE D15 Two Wheel Trauma Genesis Heart Institute Davenport ABATE D6 WTHWDOH Ride F&J Racing Marshalltown 30th Annual Donnie Smith Bike Show St Paul, MN ABATE D7 North Iowa Motorcycle Expo Mason City Abate of Sioux Falls Motorcycle Expo Sioux Falls, SD Hill Blazers Hill Climb Logan ABATE of Iowa Heartland STEAM Sioux City Freedom Quilts Presentation Fonda Rumble In The Sand Outlaw Street Drags Conesville Easter Egg Hunt Metro HD Cedar Rapids ABATE D15 Blessing of the Bikes Davenport Shalya Bee Southpark Mall Motorcycle Show Spencer Bike Blessing Big Barn HD Des Moines ABATE D18 Leather Run Ft. Madison Vintage Torque Fest Dubuque Sleeping Angels Fun Run Boone HOG Pancake Breakfast Metro HD Cedar Rapids 3rd Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Motorcycle Awareness Fun Run Council Bluffs 11th Annual Blessing of the Bikes Blue Grass F&J Racing 22nd Annual Blessing of the Bikes Marshalltown ALR Post 232 Barnstormers Veterans Ride Des Moines Biker Bed and Breakfast Grand Opening Green River IDOT Motorcycle Safety Forum Ames Little Timmy Teel Ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Armed Forces FREEDOMRIDE Loess Hills HD Pacific Junction ABATE D15 Music & Memory Ride for Iowa Masonic Bettendorf Chrome for Kids Ride Benefiting Boys and Girls Clubs of Cedar Rapids 8th Annual Armed Forces Day Toy Ride Legion Post 1 Spencer B.A.C.A of Iowa 8th Annual 100 Mile Ride Pleasant Hill Iowa Thunder Ride 2017 Des Moines Redneck Revival Conesville Midway Tavern’s Annual Neal Denny Memorial Poker Run Soldier Harley-Davidson of Carroll Rock –N- Ride Carroll Vintage Rally National Motorcycle Museum Anamosa ABATE D6 Honoring Our Heroes Vets Ride & Rodeo Marshalltown Ride With Levi Keokuk Hill Climb and Swap Meet Anamosa Open House/Swap Meet Big Barn HD Des Moines Bell Tower Festival Poker Run, Tour Rides, & Bike Show Jefferson Cole Andersen Memorial Ride/Drive Harlan 3rd Annual Ride for the Girls Memorial Poker Run LHHD Pacific Junction Remembering Jacob 4th Annual Ride and Drive Des Moines ALR Post #2 Pets & Vets BlackJack Run Council Bluffs Rumble In The Sand Outlaw Street Drags Conesville Roar Into Harlan Poker Run Harlan Keep It Movin’ Ride for MS Iowa Falls Demo Days Big Barn HD Des Moines Ride It Out For Amber Sarcoma Ride & Drive Polk City
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American Legion Dist 3 5 County Freedom Rock Ride Marshalltown Jun 29-Jul 1 ABATE of Iowa Freedom Rally Algona Jul 2 60th Anniversary Golf Tournament AL Post 46 Marshalltown Jul 7-8 CVMA Chapter 39-3 Benefit Ride/Cruise Elkport Jul 8 Vets for Valor American Legion Post 46 Marshalltown Jul 8 ABATE Da5 Taco Run for Children’s Therapy Center Wieblers HD Davenport Jul 15 “Ride for Time” with “ Friends of Mine” Baxter Jul 15 11th Annual Angel Ride to Save the TaTas Fort Dodge Jul 15 ABATE D18 Mystery Ride for Hospice Burlington Jul 15 Summer Celebration Big Barn HD Des Moines Jul 22 Deaf Poker Run Council Bluffs Jul 23 Butterfields M-C Parts Hot Dog Daze Omaha Jul 28-29 CVMA 39-1 Ann Patriot Ride and Rally ABATE Land Algona Jul 28-29 Special Forces Event Big Barn HD Des Moines Jul 29 Paws & Effect Ride American Legion Post 46 Marshalltown Jul 29 Thank the Seals Ride Burlington Jul 29 10th Annual Brooke Barber Memorial Poker Run Mount Ayr Jul 29 Volga City River Run Volga Aug 3-5 Across the Border Raid Bedford Aug 4-13 South Dakota Party Aug 5 Two Wheels Four Paws Poker Run Walford Aug 5 SPC Jordan M. Byrd Tribute to Our Fallen Memorial Ride/ Cruise Davenport Aug 12 ABATE D15 Too Broke to Go to Sturgis Rodeo Donahue Aug 12 2nd Annual Old Glory Ride TBA Aug 12 7th Annual Josh Davis Memorial Poker Run Perry Aug 18-20 Annual BTW Trike In Kellogg Aug 18-20 Boji Bike Rally Okoboji Aug 19 Mikey Jones Memorial Dragfest Cordova, IL Aug 19 Tour de Shelby County Motorcycle & Car Scavenger Hunt Harlan Aug 26 Jami Jam VI: Ride For Mental Health Action & Awareness Terril Aug 26 AHeinz 57 9th Annual Ruff Ride Adel Aug 26 Kyle’s Mile Suicide Prevention/Awareness Ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Aug 26 MIC’s M/S Ride and Park(s) Run Mitchelville Aug 26 2nd Annual Shayla Bee Black Tie Black Leather Affair Okoboji Classic Cars Aug 31-Sep 3 Redneck Revival Conesville Aug 31-Sep 2 Chief Blackhawk 46th Davenport Fall International Meet Davenport Sep 2-3 Midway Tavern Soldier Valley Run BBQ, Street Dance Soldier Sep 9 Tall Corn Run End of Year Prize Drawing TBA Big Barn HD Des Moines Sep 9 No Nipple Dipple for Hunt of a Lifetime Buffalo Sep 10 Hill Climb and Swap Meet Anamosa Sep 14 Motor Madness Bike Giveaway Metro HD Cedar Rapids Sep 15-17 Rumble In The Sand Outlaw Street Drags Conesville Sep 16 WTF Fun Harlan Sep 16 New Model Party Metro HD Cedar Rapids Sep 16 11th Annual Cedar County Heroes Memorial Ride and Poker Run Tipton Oct 1 ABATE D15 33rd Annual Toy Run w/USMC Reserves Oct 7 Hell on Wheels Chopper Show Franklin Oct 7 ABATE D18 Toys for Tots West Point Oct 12 Motor Madness Check Presentation @ Wild Hogs Walford Oct 15 ABATE D3 Toy Run Atlantic Oct 21 HOG Roast Metro HD Cedar Rapids Oct 21 Rumble In The Sand Outlaw Street Drags Conesville Nov 10-11 ABATE of Iowa STEAM Nov 24 Turkey Run Clinton Dec 23 Holiday Open House Big Barn HD Des Moines
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