Letter from the Editor ............................4 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OF IOWA
Women Riders Unite .............................6
A US VETERAN OWNED COMPANY www.thunderroadsiowa.com P.O. Box 29 Kimballton, Iowa 51543 (712) 249-5630
Salute to Flat Track Racing...................9
OWNER/EDITOR Tina (TT) Schwarte (712) 249-5582 tt@thunderroadsiowa.com EDITOR Vernon Schwarte (712) 249-5630 vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com Susan Mast SC/SE Iowa 319-931-4546 susan@thunderroadsiowa.com
Biker Friendly Listing ..........................10 99 County Tour ....................................12 Tent Camping .......................................13 Monticello Show ..................................14 500 Challenge ......................................16 Military Rider ........................................17 Girls of Thunder...................................18 Will Ride to Eat ....................................19 Thunder Cam .......................................22 CMA & ABATE ......................................28
Richard (Murph) and Annette Murphy Western Iowa vizslaboots@yahoo.com
Day Trips with Doc ..............................30
CONTRIBUTORS Kandi Schlensig kandi@thunderroadsiowa.com 712-249-0713
Skin Art .................................................34
Newsbytes ............................................32 Joker’s Wild .........................................35 From the Woman’s Seat ......................36
Thunder Illusions Rich thunderillusions@gmail.com
Baker Drivetrains .................................37
Craig Little-Will Ride for Food Dude craig@thunderroadsiowa.com
Vintage Rally ........................................45
NATIONAL FOUNDERS Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon 1421 Chapmansboro Road Chapmansboro, TN 37035 Office: (615) 792-0040 Fax: (615) 792-7580 thunderroadscharter@charter.net
Honor and Remember .........................40 Events/Bike Nights .............. Back Cover
On the cover
All rights reserved. All content is covered by copyright and ownership of said right ht is retained by Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa. Photographs may be purchased ed on www.thunderroadsiowa.com Neither magazine or website materials may be reproduced, distributed, altered or posted to any other websites without the express ss written permission of Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa LLC. Publisher assumes es no responsibility and is not to be held liable for errors beyond the cost of the space cee occupied by the error. Slander of any group or individual, failure to produce any issue ue as scheduled due to reasons beyond our control, any and all suits for liable, plagiarism, m, copyright infringement and unauthorized use of a person’s name or photograph, h, h, opinions, and claims made by advertisers and authors are their own and do not ot necessarily represent the policy of Thunder Roads Iowa Thunder Roads Magazine off Iowa LLC, Thunder Publishing LLC. Publisher does not promote the abuse of alcohol ol or other drugs, advocate any unsafe practices, or encourage breaking of any laws. ws. s
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May is Motorcycle Awareness Month, as well as International Female Ride Day on May 6th. Support our bikers and women bikers by showing your support on the streets, on the internet, and when out and about. Amigo’s in Fort Dodge supports the bikers, and hosts one of the biggest bike nights in North Central Iowa on Wednesdays starting May 4th. Pictured are some of the Amigo’s Crew with David McGaughy’s ride. Pic by Kimmy
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he time to get out and enjoy the open road is upon us. We have reached May and you know the whole bit T about April showers bring May flowers should hold true this year. We shall see. n another note thanks to all of the awesome advertisers, loyal readers, and the wonderful Thunder O Roads team who have made it possible to expand this month to forty-eight pages. We are always glad to hear from those that help make this ride possible, so feel free to call or email us and let us know what you think. The driving force of this magazine is to be “About Iowa * For Iowa * From Iowa” We listen to our reader’s thoughts and ideas. There are so many exciting things happening across this state, and we will get out and about to as much as we can. emember that May is also motorcycle awareness month. The official proclamation was passed R by Terry E. Branstad, Governor of the State of Iowa. He also stated in his proclamation “…the people of Iowa have an enduring regard for the preservation of life on our highways;…Motorcycle Awareness
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Days are being observed throughout the nation;…in actively promoting safe operation, increased rider training, improved licensing efforts, and motorist awareness;…all highway users should unite in safe sharing of roadways throughout the state of Iowa;…provides citizens of Iowa an opportunity to commit themselves to being more alert and aware of other motor vehicle drivers and especially those operating motorcycles:”
Roads Iowa coming your way. ates to remember are listed throughout this magazine. Also available on line is a detailed event listing, or if you D prefer there is also a Google Calendar. This calendar can even be added to your own personal Google Calendar. So you will have the dates on hand all the time. Check it out and see if it will help you plan your motorcycle outings this riding season.
your many travels this month take a moment to check out of the great products, specials, and one of kind items Ithatnsome veryone remember to give thanks to ones that have our advertisers have to offer the motorcycle community. Eserved, to their widows, widowers, and children. They If you are looking for something special that you cannot find are sacrificing for us to enjoy the freedoms we have today. give a holler, in our travels we have learned of some amazing, Memorial Day will wrap up the month and is a mark for the talented, fully invested people that produce products for fit official start of summer travels. Be safe and see you on the and function. Telling our advertisers that you heard about road ; ) tt them on our pages will go a long way in keeping Thunder
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Women Riders Unite! May is motorcycle awareness month here in Iowa, but it is also a time for women of the state, the nation, and internationally to recognize their importance in the biker world. There are four dates coming up that are geared for the female riders, so if you are of the female persuasion, join in with other women riders and have some fun. The first date to notice is the 6th of May, the next day is the 14th of May, and the final date is the 23rd of July. Following is a brief bit on what is going on those days, so enjoy if you can. Jodie Keasling is the Parts Manager from Hawkeye Harley Davidson in Coralville, Iowa. She is hosting and leading the 2nd Annual Hawkeye HD Woman’s Ride on May 14th, 2011. She states that the ride has been *Designed to create a comfortable atmosphere for all experience levels of women riders. From beginners to the long time, seasoned pros’, all models of two (or three) wheels are welcome.” They will be gathering at Hawkeye Harley on that morning,
and leave at 10:00 AM. They are taking some scenic back roads to Stone City to eat a bite of lunch, socialize, have fun, snap some photos (including a group photo), and hang out about an hour. Another scenic journey back to Hawkeye will take one last hour, and then some social time at the store. Jodie is always the good host and has a bag of goodies for those who participate. Women are free to come and go as they need. Lunch at Stone City is the responsibility of the riders. “Last year I had about 13 ladies join us. We went to a place called Rose and Thorn for lunch in little Amana It was a huge success and lots of fun. Took some awesome pictures last year of the ladies and their new found friends. We also design a map of the route so if someone shows up after we leave, they can catch up and/or join us at the eating place.” If you have any questions, please get in contact with: Jodie Keasling Parts Mgr. Hawkeye Harley-Davidson 319-545-7495 On the other side of the state is another woman’s ride on the same day, May 14th, 2011. This ride is organized and led by Gretchen Carroll, aka “G” from Holstein Harley Davidson in Omaha. This ride is the 3rd Annual Women’s Fun Run, and started out with about 17 participants the first year, over 50 the second, and she is shooting for over 100 this year. She as well organized the ride in May as it is International Women’s Rider Month. The gathering and sign up will start at 9:30 AM followed by a light breakfast. G reports that kickstands will go up and clutches out at 10:30 AM. They will run from Holsteins up to BeeBee Town for
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a stop at the Twisted Tail, and then onto Pisgah to the Sportsman’s Bar. After some riding through the beautiful Losses Hills area, they will return to Omaha and enjoy an after party at the Chrome Lounge on 84th Street with an expected arrival at about 5:00 PM. If you have any questions, please get in contact with:
internet, it’s truly phenomenal!” says Vicki Gray, founder of the International Female Ride Day and of MOTORESS. “For the 5th year we’re so excited to welcome support and participation from National Russian Motorcycle Federation (NRMF) and equally a group of women in India who are totally on board with the action! This year many women have referred to the campaign as a ‘movement’ and really, its global size is certainly proof of that!”
Gretchen Carroll Holstein Harley Davidson 402-331-0022
Since its introduction in 2007, International Female Ride Day has continued to expand demonstrating magnificent growth. This has also been a result of The third ride is the 23rd of July and is headed up by the endorsement and support from the motorcycle Susan Baxter. The ride will leave Atlantic, Iowa and industry and its prominent leaders, renowned female take a scenic route around the southwest part of our rider clubs, and international governing bodies such as Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme wonderful state. This will be the third year running for this event, and has a growing following. (FIM). In 2011 women riders throughout Canada, United States, Australia, England, The Netherlands, Greece, Italy, Poland, Israel, Hungary, Slovakia, Women riders around the world prepare to India, Russia Germany and more- will contribute to ride their motorcycles for unified global action the campaign in compelling numbers. on Friday 6 May! For more online information about International International Female Ride Day whose simple theme Female Ride Day, visit: asks women to “JUST RIDE”, is a designated day, http://www.motoress.com/femalerideday.asp aimed at bringing awareness to the existing and mounting numbers of women motorcyclists, a prominent escalating segment of the motorcycling community who ride just as much as their male counterparts. “We ride on a Friday to emphasize the fact that motorcycling for women is not only a hobby but something women incorporate into their every day lives. Women ride to work, to school or to run errands, such as I do on my scooter in the cityit’s a reality in a woman’s life, and this day simply accentuates it. Women enthusiastically prepare to ride and unite around the world on this synchronized day - and if you look at the feedback by way of
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Salute to Flat-Track Motorcycle Racing in Iowa A Success at National Sprint Car Museum FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE; Contact: Bob Colbert, 515-729-1343 (March 29, 2011) Knoxville, Iowa – The National Sprint Car Museum’s Third Thursday program on March 17 was a “Salute to Flat-Track Motorcycle Racing in Iowa” and it was another well-attended success. Museum volunteer Bob Colbert put together a mixed panel of speakers for the evening, including young riders Matt Burton and Aaron King, veteran riders Jerry Cheney and Rich King, promoter Matt George and motorcycle owner Bob Weirbach. Those in attendance also enjoyed a videotape of the 2003 American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) Grand National Series race won by Waterloo’s Rich King. The event was a prelude to Knoxville Raceway’s Friday, September 9, vintage motorcycle races, promoted by Matt George, and Saturday, September 10, AMA Grand National Championship Series races. Those interested in the September 9-10 motorcycle racing weekend in Knoxville should visit www.knoxvilleraceway. com or call 641-842-5431.
Photo by photographer Dwayne Betterton: Left to right: Bob Colbert, Matt George, Matt Burton, Aaron King, Rich King, Jerry Cheney, Bob Weirbach, and John Kite. www.thunderroadsiowa.com
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Biker Friendly Directory It’s important for you to know who your friends are out there when you hit the road! Welcome to our Biker Friendly Directory. The following is a list of our establishments throughout Iowa that want you to know that they’re here for YOU. Whether it’s a bike dealer, service shop, restaurant, bar or any other type of business that welcomes our biking community through their doors, you can count on our family of friends to always welcome you in. The staff here at Thunder Roads greatly appreciates our advertiser’s support each month- they are the sole financial supporters of this magazine. WE WOULD NOT EXIST WITHOUT THEM! So please give them the support that they truly deserve for being with us & drop by to see them for a visit. Let them know that you saw them here in Thunder Roads. If you know a business that would like to join our Thunder Roads family of Biker Friendly Places, please give us a call at 712-249-5630 or vernon@ thunderroadsiowa.com Shops and Fabricators Batt’s Cycle American V-Twin Service 1006 Linn Street Boone, Iowa 50036 515-298-0375 www.baƩscycle.com Bike Pit Motorcycle Services 2694 5th Ave, Building B-Unit 2 Marion, IA 52303 319-651-8835 Jason.Bikepit@yahoo.com F & J Racing Fred & Jackie Ingraham 701 N 3rd Ave Marshalltown, Iowa 50158 641-752-8651 www.fandjracing.com Guthrie Auto Body John Beer owner 1804 State Street Guthrie Center, Iowa 50115 641-332-2484 J & S Custom Cycles 3630 Merle Hay Road Des Moines, Iowa 515-779-4632
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M&M Garage 408 Market Street Audubon, Iowa 50025 712-563-2425 mmgarage@iowatelecom.net Metal Ink 911 7th Street Ste 102 Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-235-2453 www.metalink.org Nelson Machine & Forge General Machining, Ornamental Iron, Weld/Fab 70 Washington Street Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2220
Bail Bonds Doc’s Bail Bonds Your 24/7 Prescription to Freedom Adel, Iowa 50003 515-993-4773 Iowa Bail Bonds 200 4th Street Des Moines, IA 50309 (515) 243-4411
Revolution Cycles 120 South Main Street Baxter, Iowa 50028 641-507-9250 www.rev-ia.com
Southwest Iowa Sandblasting Mike Magers 65162 Oxford Rd Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-249-3995
Throttle Shop LLC 1988 Arion Avenue Arion, Iowa 51520 712-674-3325 throƩleshopllc@gmail.com
Biker Accessories
XTreme Cycle & Off Road 206 E Main St Panora, Iowa 50216 641-755-4288 xtremecycle@neƟns.net
Ullrich Photography PO Box 1842 Clinton, Iowa 52733 563-243-8715 www.natanic.com Dealers
BCS Computers 100 Industrial Road Guthrie Center, Iowa 50115 641-747-3344 www.brubakercomputer.com RJM Trucking Cedar Rapids, Iowa 319-360-5433
Twisted Grip Cycle Your Dynojet & Tire Center 2444 L Avenue (I-29 & 25th St. Exit) Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501 712-256-7323 Aaron@twistedgripcycle.omhcoxmail.com
Thunder Illusions Photo and Video From Mild to Wild Des Moines, Iowa thunderillusions@gmail.com www.thunderillusions.com
Services
Paint By Golden Pin Striping, Airbrushing, Complete Bike www.paintbygolden.com 402-214-1609
Trustworthy Cycles 3781 Balk Road Fulton, Illinois 61252 563-249-1777 Specializing in Making the “Old Iron” Trustworthy
Photo and Video
Biker Diva 109 South John Wayne Drive Winterset, Iowa 50273 www.bikerdiva.net Crispy’s Biker Apparel Cedar Rapids, Iowa www.bncbikerwear.com 319-241-0916 Lazy Mule 2715 Kanesville Blvd Council Bluffs, Iowa 712-256-6939 Leather & Hawgs 316 Main, Hornick, Iowa 121 1st St, Soldier, Iowa Leather@neƟns.net www.leatherandhawgs.com Strong Arm Brand Office@strongarmbrand.com 888-271-7055 Embalming Fluid for Guns, Machinery, Bikes
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Baxter Cycle 311 4th Street Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2351 www.baxtercycle.com Big Barn Harley Davidson I-80 Exit 135 Des Moines, Iowa 515-265-4444 www.bigbarnhd.com Carroll Cycle Center 1327 Plaza Dr Carroll, Iowa (712) 792-1610 www.carrollcycle.com Heartland Harley Davidson 155 S Roosevelt Burlington, Iowa 52601 319-754-1100 www.heartlandhd.com Nishna Valley Cycle HONDA-YAMAHA-KTM Atlantic, Iowa, 50022 1-888-577-6406 www.nishnavalleycycle.com Struthers Brothers 5191 NW 2nd Des Moines, Iowa 515-282-3634 Werner Cycle Works 14410 Frontier Road Exit 440 I-80 Omaha, NE 68138 (402) 894-3050 www.wernercycleworks.com
Food and Drink 4th Avenue Grill 115 N 4th Ave Logan, Iowa 712-644-3200 14th Street Tavern 3418 East 14th Street Des Moines, Iowa (515) 266-3446 Open Weekdays 8am-2pm Sat 10am-2pm and Sun 11am-2pm Amigos 280 North 1st Street Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501 515-576-0142 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 Boss Hawgs 5959 SE 14th Street Des Moines, Iowa 515-287-8646 DMAKU’s Tiki Bar & Grill 213 Antique City Drive Walnut, Iowa 712-784-2190 Sun-Sat Open at 9 AM Doc’s Roadhouse 309 East 7th Street Logan, Iowa 51543 712-644-3636 Open 365-8 am to Close Do Drop Inn 403 3rd Avenue Under the Water Tower Jamaica, Iowa 50128 515-314-0783 Escape Lounge 8843 Northpark Ct, Johnston, IA 50131 515-276-2209
Good Sons 2815 Beaver Ave Ste 102 Des Moines, IA (515) 681-5375
Ruby’s 114 NE 2nd Street Stuart, Iowa rubyspub.com Weekdays 4, Saturday 10 am, Sunday 12
Wilson’s Tap and Recreation 1008 Story Street Boone IA 50036 515-433-1395
Haverhill Social Club 202 1st Street Haverhill, IA 50120 (641) 475-3321 Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-2am Sunday 12pm-12am
Quick Rick’s Rib Joint 406 East Lincoln Highway (Highway 30) Missouri Valley, Iowa 51555 712-600-6161 Tue-Sun 11:00am-8:00pm
Bad Girlz Ink 1217 Willis Perry, Iowa 50220 515-465-2205
Lampe’s Pub 608 Iowa Avenue Dunlap, Iowa 51529 712-643-5781 Open 7 days a week at 11 AM
Riverside Tavern 450 E Main St Lehigh IA, 50557 515-359-9998 Email: riversidetap@gmail.com
Crave Tattoo 201 S 12th Street Fort Dodge, Iowa 51501 515-576-8289 FB Crave Tattoo, Inc.
Midway Tavern 206 1st Street Soldier, Iowa 712-884-2230 www.midwaytavernsoldier.com
Rusty Duck Bar & Grill 723 Marshall Street Dexter, Iowa 50070 Tue-Sat 4-10pm 515-789-4142
Medical
Montgomery Street Pub 207 East Montgomery Street Creston Iowa 50801 641-782-2165
Sambetti’s Bar and Grill 1430 2nd Avenue Des Moines, Iowa 50314 515-245-9780 Mon-Sat 11a-2a, Sun 11a-7p
Nitro’s Bar & Grill 310 Main Street Gravity, Iowa 50848 641-418-0004 Home of Sunday-Funday Off Sides Pizza 1119 Thomas Street Redfield, Iowa 50233 515-833-2900 O’Kelly’s 106 North Main Street Baxter, IA 50028 (641) 227-3013 Papa Joe’s 117 South 6th Street Missouri Valley, Iowa 51555 712-642-9015 Pearl Street Social Club 110 Pearl Street SW Shellsburg, Iowa 52332 319-436-7100 Phil’s 20oz Prime Rib Friday Nights 9956 Swanson Blvd Clive, Iowa 515-270-0959
Tattoo
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 Texas Roadhouse 8744 Northpark Drive (I-80 at 86th ) Johnston, Iowa 50131 515-251-4597 Thomas Street Tap 1109 Thomas Street Redfield, Iowa 50233 515-833-2379 Wet Goods Food & Lounge 113 N. Chestnut Street Jefferson, Iowa 50129 515-386-2111
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Metro OB/GYN, LLC 201 Ridge Street, Suite 307 Council Bluffs, IA, 51503 (712) 256-8505 Attorneys Richard Lester www.on-a-bike.com 800-on-a-bike Events Across the Border Raid Bedford, Iowa August 4-6, 2011 Backwoods Bash Highway 6 Between Redfield and Dexter May 28-29, 2011 Circle of Pride Conesville, Iowa Hog Wild Rodeo May 26-28 Independence Bash July 1-2 T.I.T.S September 1-4 MAG Motofest II Clear Lake, Iowa June 4, 2011 Mississippi River Motorcycle Rally Davenport, Iowa June 15-18 Nitro’s Bike Rally Gravity, Iowa July 7-9, 2011
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99 Counties on the Wall
built in the 1850’s served as a stagecoach stop. The museum stores many artifacts from the history of Butler County. Stop by the Courthouse to visit The Little Yellow School99 Counties to tour on the bike, 99 counties to tour, take one house. This one-room schoolhouse built in 1888, served down, drive on around, 87 counties to tour on the bike. A the educational needs in its previous home of Aredale. The few years back, a summer riding goal was to ride through courthouse square is also home to the county Hall of Fame. each and every one of the counties of Iowa, and what was Home to photos of residents inducted into the hall of fame found was a wealth of interest and beauty. Each month we and military artifacts from the war of 1812. will feature a different county, and new things to go see, and hopefully spark a little touring curiosity for our own state. Allison is also home to the Hwy 3 Raceway, a ½ mile semibanked track featuring stock car and figure 8 races. You BUTLER COUNTY should also stop by the Mural painted by local artist Tom Ribble located on N. Main and 3rd. St. This months’ featured county rests north of highway 20 Head North to Greene. Greene residents enjoy the picturand east of Interstate 35. The county seat is Allison, named esque Shell Rock River as it winds its’ way through town. after the Dubuque native Republican politician, lawyer and The charming business district offers a landmark departSenator William B. Allison. The City of Allison was named ment store, grocery store, variety store, pharmacy, auto county seat on January 10, 1881 after the Dubuque and parts, hardware, convenience stores, Dakota railroads were laid through and more for your visit. Greene has a Allison. Historical Museum and the Railroad Butler County has 10 incorporated Depot. cities and 2 un-incorporated towns. All of which are relatively the same size. Work your way Southeast to ClarksWith agriculture as the predominant ville. Stop by and check out Henry business there are a lot of farms scatWoods Nature center. The center was tered throughout the county. The rolldesigned around the theme “This is ing landscape allows for ideal land to your Heritage”, offering natural, culgrow corn, soybeans, and small grains. tural, and local history. Also in ClarksPlus there are plenty of beef and dairy ville are the Wolter’s Prairie Preserve cattle and hog farms. and the Leeper’s Prairie Preserve. Both have many of the historical vegetation Taking a tour of Butler County on that once covered most of Iowa. Make a bike you might want to roll into sure you get to Clarksville in time to the County along Hwy 3 and swing stop by LL Green Upholstery which through Dumont. A quiet town with specializes in custom motorcycle seats. under 1,000 residents that has an antique store and old-fashioned popcorn Further on down the river is the town stand (open weekend evenings during of Shell Rock. The town linked tothe summer), along with other busigether by bridges is known for its 4th nesses. Continuing east along Hwy 3 of July celebration. With many local specialty shops this is you will come across the Boylan Creek Wildlife Area, host a good place to get off and take a break from riding. Take a to many species of wildlife. Knowing that the wildlife areas look at the historical 5 story Old Mill. Although the whole are protected from hunting, take some extra caution in these building isn’t open to the public you can still take a gander areas due to wildlife on the roadways. at the unique mill stones and turbines from the outside. There is an antique shop located on the main level, open on Head north of the wildlife area and you will enter into Bris- Fridays and Saturdays from 2-5. Another site to visit is the tow, the home of Paul “Ed” Yost, the father of the “Modern Shell Rock Historical Museum, housing memorabilia from hot air balloon”. Bristow is a small farming community. Shell Rock and the local area. Stop by and check out the Little Valley Church. Said to be the smallest church in Iowa, measuring in at 6 feet by 8 feet Heading back to the Southwest you will find Parkersburg. and 10 feet tall, not including the steeple. Inside you will Stop by the Parkersburg Historical home located on Fifth find 4 small pews to seat four adults, an altar, and yes, room Street. This Victorian home was to stand up! Constructed in 1972, it was originally located built in 1895. Visitors will enjoy the in Allison. Open by request only. Call (641) 775-3333 for wide variety of woodwork in each information. It makes for quite an interesting little stop, and room, as well as many artifacts of the curator that lives across the street is quite accommodat- local history. The home features a ing. The church is set in a walking park that is quite nice to circular tower that provides panhang out in and rest oramic view of the surrounding area. Open Sunday afternoon from 1-4pm. For a bite to eat there are a Heading further east few restaurants/pubs that you can choose from in the business district. Butler County although small and mainly a farming area, still has some interesting things to see and The fairgrounds are do. Stop by and check out some of the sights, and enjoy Iowa. Next month join us for a tour of Calhoun County. References available upon Log Cabin. The log request. cabin, originally Article by Poolboy located in Greene, 12 - TRMI MAY 2011
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Is Motorcycle Camping For You? Considerations for Tenting
ideas of what to pack for camping gear that is lightweight, has small space requirements, and will be durable for years of use.
Some years back tt and I decided that we were going to get a tent to be able to pack on the bike and always have a place to stay when traveling on the bikes. We had done tent camping in the past, but it was a lot of years ago, and we did not realize that the ground has gotten harder, tents have gotten smaller, and bugs have gotten bigger. Maybe it is that we are older, bigger, and carry more stuff now, who knows though. We were not ready for a trailer setup, so we decided to go for tent camping and away we went to the store.
Start Small and Build
We got the tent set up, and then threw out the fleece 40 degree sleeping bag and settle in for the night. It got down to about 60 degrees that night, and we froze our buns off! The ground was hard as concrete, the tent was too small, and the heavy moisture from dew almost came running through on us. The fleece sleeping bag rated at 40 was not really the best type of material for warmth or moisture resistance. Water would soak into it and then we got wet, on top of being cold, as well as trying to cram ourselves into a tent that was WAY too small. We gave up trying to sleep at about four AM, and packed up and headed to a truck stop for some coffee and warmth. Sometimes spontaneity is really cool, but sometimes a little trip pre-planning can go a long way, including checking out your gear and the weather. We have since had a couple different tents, and wanted to share our
I know that there is a wide array of likes and wants when it comes to camping, and that some won’t do a biker event without the modern conveniences of an RV, and others only need a blue tarp to lie on and cover up with. The quality of the gear available today, can make your biker camping excursion quite enjoyable. Try to get a tent one person size larger than how many you will have. If it is just one person, go for a two person tent and so on. This will leave space for gear, and also give you some space to change cloths if needed. Don’t forget about a waterproof footprint that will help out in the event of a downpour. This added bit of gear also helps protect the floor of the tent as well from tears and ground debris.
Once you are ready to go get your gear, keep it simple. Don’t go blow the wad of cash in your pocket to buy the newest, biggest, or flashiest set up. Decide what type of tent camping you will be doing, and plan accordingly. Look for the lightest and smallest gear you can find within your budget. There are tons of options out there, so do some shopping. Don’t be afraid to borrow a buddy’s gear to try out if they will let you to do a short trip, a one Our first tent was picked up at a night excursion. Start small and local discount store. I took it out see how it goes, then build from of the box and without setting there. I have even set up gear it up at home, strapped it to the to try out in my own yard just top of the saddlebag, and threw to see how it will work before in the fleece lightweight sleeping heading out on a trip. If you bag. We are good to go then are going to learn of equipment right? Wrong! The first place shortcomings, better to do it on that we used this very tent was a short trip not far from home. north of Sioux Falls at about 11 Setting up at home ahead of PM one night. The footprint time will also help alleviate the size of the tent on the box was problem of learning to set up a slightly mis-marked. It said five tent for the first time in front of foot wide by seven feet long, and your buddies. I know they will looked like a rectangle on the appreciate the entertainment, but diagram. Should be good huh? you probably do not want to be Not! It was at the longest seven, and at the widest five, but the butt of everyone’s jokes. was more of an old coffin shape. Rather disheartening at 11 at night and trying to set up under the lights of the bikes. Picking Your Gear
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Monticello Show ‘11 It’s hard to imagine, but sometimes yes, big things can actually happen in “small town Iowa.” You see, the Muller brothers have hosted an annual rod and custom show in the small eastern Iowa town of Monticello for 42 years now. Yes, that’s correct, 42 years! These fellas take their show very seriously, and only allow the best of the best to be showcased. They search high and low to find the best customized and restored hot rods, muscle cars, trucks, and oh yes, motorcycle to adorn their show. Hell, 1 week after this year’s show,
I spotted Galen Muller wandering through the World of Wheels show in Chicago, scouting out potential exhibitors for their show next February! To get back on track, the Mullers are known for calling upon a celebrity or two for their shin dig every year, and this year’s guest roped in fans from all over the Midwest region. Believe it or not, The Fonz, yes Henry Winkler himself, star of the hit television show Happy Days was on hand to take photos with fans and sign autographs both Saturday and Sunday. Henry had a line waiting when he arrived Saturday, with what ended up leading down one wall of the show and out the door! Sunday’s crowd boasted a good size line too, but Henry didn’t want to let any of his fans down, so on occasion he would break from signing autographs to wall down the line to shake hands and greet fans as they waited patiently. Hell of a fine gesture!
Aside from mingling with The Fonz, the show also featured some great views on 2 wheels and 4. As a person first enters the show, a room just to the right housed the majority of the bike show entries. At fist glance, any antique guru surely would’ve noticed two very early Jefferson motorcycles, a 1914 V-twin in original condition, and a restored 1913 Mack powered single cylinder board track racer, both owned by Jeffrey Haberman of Jefferson, Wisconsin. Whew, that’s a lot of Jeff’s in one sentence! Dave Spooner showed a Yamaha café racer and vintage Yamaha 650 drag bike, and the National Motorcycle Museum rolled in a ’59 Triumph Thunderbird, which was painted by Von Dutch and built by Bud Elkins, a stunt double for Steve McQueen. Speaking of old Triumphs, aside the first few episodes of Happy Days, The Fonz rode an old Triumph through out the remainder of the series, and the Trumpet-heads rolled them in for the show… Corey Hansen of Rake, Iowa rolled in a hardtail Bonneville, and Mike Goodnight showed his ’61 springer with Apehangers and leather saddlebags, while his daughter Jessica showed off her mini-bike with an airplane pedal-car 14 - TRMI MAY 2011
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running through the rear fender and a MACK truck hood ornament for a jockey shifter. All the cars and trucks on display also deserve a nod, but due to space constraints and the fact that this is a motorcycle publication, we’ll just mention that it’s well worth seeing it all in person, so you better make plans to take it all in! Next year’s show will be held the last weekend in February, and yes, plans are in the works for another guest celebrity appearance. You can get more info at www.rodandcustomcarshow.com or call the Mullers at 319-465-5119. fabricated into a side hack and painted in AllisChalmers orange. Very interesting little scooter!
www.natanic.com)) Nate Ullrich (www.natanic.com
Gary Dagsgard hauled in a black Softail chopper down from Minnesota, Gary Schutt from Colona, Illinois showed his custom chopper, while Bob and Lea Blumberg, also from Minnesota rolled in their ’90 Softail custom for spectators to adore. The main floor of the show had row upon row of beautiful cars packed bumper to bumper, but there were a handful of bikes overflowing onto the main floor too. Terry Werner of Sterling, Illinois showed his ’99 Road King which landed him a huge feature in a major national publication, Chris Baltzer of Bettendorf, Iowa showed off his radical rigid in gold, and Kevin Burke from Lamb Chopper Works in Racine, Wisconsin showed a bare metal rigid with exhaust
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500 Challenge Rally Biker Fun on a Budget The 500 challenge is a two day 500 mile motorcycle rally. This is a rain or shine event and will be held June 4th and 5th starting in Sioux City. The idea for this ride has been discussed for years by a couple friends from northwest Iowa, Mark Camerer and Kevin Martin. The idea never came to be for various reasons, but is now coming to reality due to the early demise of Kevin. This February he passed from a heart attack and his friends want to make his dreams about a rally come true. Kevin was a collector of older bikes you could say. He did not have a ton of cash to spend on toys, but he always had something he could ride. He stayed on two wheels with a budget in mind. Most of the bikes he had were older, and not terribly expensive. That was part of the draw for the rally. In the planning of such an event, there had to be some ground rules set forth. It is an open ride for all, so all bikes are welcome, just pay your registration and hit the road. However, to pay tribute to Kevin Martin if your bike is smaller than 500cc and have less than $500 invested, you will be eligible for some special cash prizes and trophies. Registration will be $50 for all riders, bike must be registered, insured and road legal and safe. Safety gear is highly recommended, and some of the ride will be in Nebraska and will require a helmet. The day of the ride, during sign up you will be given some check points to hit that you can snap a photo of for proof of completion, so make sure you have a camera of some sort. The route will start at the East End Mini Mart in Sioux City at 9 AM, and be gassed and ready to roll by 10 AM sharp! The first day will be 250 miles and end in Council Bluffs near Mid America Center. Blocks of hotel rooms are being reserved. Arrival in Council Bluffs by 6 PM. Day Two will be another 250 miles back to Sioux City where friends and family will be waiting for the road warriors return. Leave the area by 10 AM and return to the Sioux City area by 6 PM to the Firehouse Bar for a return party. If you cannot make the ride, join the group for the post party with Paul and crew at the Firehouse. More details can be found on Facebook, search for 500 Challenge. Get a clunker, make it run and let’s ride the wheels off ‘em. vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com 16 - TRMI MAY 2011
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MILITARY RIDERS
This month we bring you Cliff Carr Jr. from Avoca, Iowa. As this is being printed, Cliff is at pre-deployment training for a trip across the big pond. He will be home around the first part of May and raring to ride while he can before deployment. He is a Sergeant in the Army Reserves and has served for six years so far. He has already completed tours in Iraq and Kuwait, and going back for another assignment. His primary job is as a Transportation Specialist, which he states is another way of saying “truck driver”. As we can only imagine, even driving a truck in hostile territory is so much more than right here in the states. Military service has been a part of Cliff’s life for generations. His Father was an Air Force man
old Shovelhead, and got it breathing again, and other than a little bigger rear tire, he does not have much for plans. He likes her just the way she is!
When he has time after training and before deployment, he will probably do everything but sleep on Belle. He said he wants to get in as much riding as possible before hitting the sand. He has a lot of friends that ride, and he is going to join our Thunder Roads crew as much as possible to get some miles on. It will be an honor to ride with an active duty Service Man. If you see Cliff out and about on Belle, give him a nice Veteran’s wave, and if you get a chance, shake his hand and thank him for his service. Ride Free Thanks to our Military!
who worked on aircraft engines, and as an MP during the Vietnam War. His grandfather was a lead tank driver in WWII serving under General Patten, and he received the Silver Star for his meritorious service. Cliff started riding dirt bikes when he was a kid, but got away from motorcycles as his family moved around a lot. He got into sports and trucks, but felt the need to get back on two wheels, and finally found a bike that seemed to “fit” him. He found his latest ride fondly named “Belle” at a pawn shop in Omaha. It was an old school look chopper that he had longed for, but was in need of a bit of work, not unlike a lot of old choppers. He reworked a lot of things on the www.thunderroadsiowa.com
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of Iowa Cathy Downey 2010 Yamaha V-Star 950 Atlantic, Iowa
Julie Hanson 2004 Harley Davidson FXDLI Low Rider Carroll, Iowa
Jackie Kalkhoff 2007 Harley Davidson Softail Deluxe Manning, Iowa
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will ride to eat
Peony Chinese Restaurant 101 East Lincolnway Street Jefferson, IA 515-386-3928 Monday – Saturday: 11 AM – 9:30 PM Closed Sundays
If you are looking for good homemade Chinese food, make a trip to Jefferson and find your way to the square. There, on the southwest corner, you’ll find a quiet little shop called Peony Chinese Restaurant. Their full menu is available for both eat in and carry out. Prices vary from $.10 for a fortune cookie to a high of $12.25 for the most expensive dinners. Their crab Rangoon is the best we have found, bar none. Make sure if you order it that you ask for the yellow mustard with horseradish sauce to compliment it. It’s my favorite but I must warn you, like the old Prell shampoo commercials would pitch “A little dab will do ya!” Oh, and you might not want the sauce you squirt to be the first thing in your mouth... it will definitely clear your sinuses! They have other delicious appetizers as well, but the Crab Rangoon is always a favorite. My wife loves Chinese cuisine. She’s tried it on the East Coast, the South West, in KC and the Twin Cities, and she always says she has to come back to the real deal – The Peony. Here’s what makes it so special...the atmosphere is very inviting. You can sit at a booth or a table. You can have a large group or it can be just you. The service is attentive, the food is fixed quickly and always served hot. The menu is easy to read. The categories are divided into types that are easily recognized, beef, chicken, shrimp, etc. The menu is marked with asterisks beside the spicy selections to differentiate them from the milder selections. You can order the spicy dishes in 5 levels of heat.
you in a big way. The sauce wasn’t just hot, it was sweet as well, a most delicious combination. The beef is thin cut and breaded with cabbage, bean sprouts and sesame seeds mixed in and coated in that delectable sauce. My wife had the Sweet and Sour Chicken, her favorite. Each piece of white meat chicken was evenly breaded, cooked to perfection and doused in plenty of warm sweet and sour sauce. She notes that of all the sweet and sour sauce she’s tasted, this is the best! By the way, you can enjoy that sweet and sour sauce on anything you want. Each table has its own little jar of the spicy treat sitting by the salt and pepper shakers. The entrees arrive at the table on a platter with a serving spoon. (Apparently, they feel that you should share your entree with others at your table. However, sharing is not a prime concern of mine when stuffing my face with tasty food.) Each person is given a large dinner plate and a bowl of steamed rice besides the platter of your chosen main dish. I like to spread my rice on the dinner plate to make a nice bed. Then I slide all of the main dish on top of that fresh made bed. My wife, on the other hand, takes just a few spoonfuls of rice, pours sweet and sour sauce over it and gives me the rest. She eats very little rice and enjoys the sweet and sour chicken, the pineapple tidbits, carrots and green peppers just as they come on her platter. This arrangement works well for both of us... by the time she has used what rice she wants I have made enough room on my plate for the remainder. At the end of the meal, along with the bill, they provide everyone at the table with a fortune cookie. I find that although I know the fortunes in these cookies are corny and/or generic I still get that twinge of anticipation and curiosity of what that magic little strip of paper will hold when I crack open the cookie! If you’re looking for delicious Chinese cuisine, make the trip to Jefferson and check out the Peony Chinese Restaurant. I hope that the fortune you find in your cookie comes true! Until next month, ride safe and eat hearty! Craig Little craig@thunderroadsiowa.com
PS If you have someplace you think we should check out in your neck of the woods, shoot me an email.
I had the Sesame Beef. It had that scale of 1 to 5 stars so I could choose how spicy I wanted it to be. Of course, I said, “Give me the 5!” I was not disappointed in the heat! Sweat was rolling off my forehead as I ate and I drained my tea glass twice. This is not your typical heat. You taste it just a bit at first, then it really comes back and bites www.thunderroadsiowa.com
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Is Motorcycle Camping For You?
some sights will be destination points for an evening, go ahead and make reservations. We have had more than one occasion of a favorite campground being full and having to seek out alternative sights late at night when tired after a long Considerations for Tenting day. If a beginner, you may want to have a site with running Continued from page 13 water, preferably at the campsite, toilets, and showers. We have traveled across the United States and have found so far that Iowa has the best campgrounds and facilities. Gain more Bikers sure can sleep on the ground, I know that I have, but experience if you want to do some “rough” camping, without am also getting a little older and do not care any campsite amenities. for that so much. One of the things we found to pack light instead of an inflatable air mattress is the Therm-a-Rest® Picking your site is also very important. You will want to brand that self inflates. Therm-a-Rest® also provides shoot for as level a spot as you can find, and smooth as can different R-Value’s to provide additional insulation from the be. Pick up any rocks, sticks, or other debris not only for ground temperatures. comfort, but to avoid damage to your gear. Look around for any possible problems that may arise in your camp area There are other brands that we have run across, but this one such as being susceptible to wind, flooding, bugs, livestock, is our favorite for durability and comfort. They are offered wildlife, or even other partying bikers. Pick the spot that will in various sizes and thicknesses, so check them out and be the best for the type of sleep you are looking for. consider your packing limitations. The more padding you have and the larger footprint, the more weight and size it will Head out, Have Fun take to stow. Take your trips, learn your gear, figure out how you like to A sleeping bag is a must even in warm weather camping. camp and what you need, and then keep making it better for Even in 70 degree weather, you can get hypothermic. Cold yourself. Tent camping on a motorcycle trip can be a lot of fronts can move in at the drop of a dime, and make a night of fun if done right and with some planning. Good luck, be shivering in a tent very miserable. Sleeping bag technology safe, and enjoy. has come a long way, and you can get a bag that will keep you warm in about any temperature and pack in size from Vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com a football to a butterball turkey. We have learned a flannel sheet as the base and covering up with the sleeping bag, as a comforter, keeps up warm at night. Plan Carefully Packing for a motorcycle trip whether it is to a rally, or across the country, can be a bit challenging. There is limited cargo capacity and space, so take everything you will need, and nothing you don’t. Make up your own personal checklist of what you need to bring on any given trip, and check it off before heading out. Take a copy with you make modifications to it as you go. Learn better for your next trip. Another recommendation is to check the weather for where you are going. This may alter what is on the “required” list, or may even change you plans or route. Packing Pack the heavy stuff low to lessen the effects on your center of gravity. Do not overload your bike, and try to keep things centered as best as possible. Even with a sunny forecast, plan for the rain. We do live in Iowa now, and it can rain at anytime, especially this time of year. Bring some zipper plastic bags, and even a few garbage bags that can be used to keep some dry stuff dry if need be. It is always a good idea to pack the bike, and then make sure you have some time to go for a brief test ride to make sure you have the gear well balanced and secured properly. Another example of trying to find any issues close to home. Where to Set Up Try to plan your trip at least roughly and know where you can set up camp. Some areas have a little bit different requirements, so plan accordingly. If you can guarantee www.thunderroadsiowa.com
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Thunder cam
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Gretchen Carroll Holsteins Harley Davidson May 14th Woman’s Ride Coordinator
Jodie Keasling Hawkeye Harley Davidson May 14th Woman’s Ride Coordinator
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www.thunderroadsiowa.com ww ww..thun u derrro un oadsiow a wa.c wa com om
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cause with us. Didn’t I just mention there are over 250,000 licensed bikers in Iowa? Well, I’m sure some of you just didn’t know our schedule of events, regardless; we need more of you to join and help us fight for our rights.
My Two Cents Worth It’s almost here, the riding season is about to begin. To all you self or family member taught riders out there be extra careful. You’re lacking skills that could save your life. In the 1990’s, forty percent of bike crashes were single vehicle crashes. By 2007, seventy-five percent of crashes were single vehicle crashes. With just over 250,000 licensed motorcyclists in Iowa your chance of becoming a statistic is high. Now, that may sound kind of harsh but face the facts here. By not spending a little over a hundred bucks and taking a Rider Education class offered by either ABATE or one of the many colleges that make it available to you, it’s just a matter of time when those skills you thought were a waste to learn could really pay off when that vehicle pulls out in front of you. Visit www.abateiowa.org for more information or go online and look at your area colleges that offer the RE class and get signed up today.
In 2006 we pushed to get Right of Way legislation passed for enhanced penalties for crashes. Currently, if the violation meets the criteria for requiring a court appearance, and the “court appearance box” is not checked, a defendant can pay the fine and the case is closed. No opportunity to apply enhanced penalties is available. We hope Senate File 165 will change this loophole. Our proposal, which has now passed out of subcommittee, would allow the County Attorney to set aside as a matter of law, by filing an objection to the conviction within sixty days of the conviction. These are only two examples of what ABATE of Iowa, Inc., does for all Iowa motorcyclist. If you feel that our government should make all your decisions for you then kick back and smile every time you lose a freedom. I’m the opposite. I refuse to allow my elected officials the chance to walk on our freedoms, on my freedoms.
I think that’s enough for one month, time to get the bike shined, check the camping gear, and make sure my cooler survived the winter without me. I should mention that ABATE of Iowa met with our Governor and May has Next I want to focus on what ABATE has been doing for now been proclaimed as Motorcycle Awareness Month. you, the motorcycle enthusiast so far this year. The day is Now go get some wind in your face and be safe out there. th February 17 , 2011. ABATE of Iowa’s Annual Lobby Day Remember, we are invisible except to each other. Feel free at our state Capitol in Des Moines. Are there any of you out to contact me on any issues you may have. Till next time. there that have been buying those trike kits or Voyager kits? As of last year, around 700 kits have been sold in Iowa, so Kent Clemons there are some of you buying these things. ABATE of Iowa PR Director Did you know that we (ABATE) have been working on pr@abateiowa.org “defining” the outriggers that you have been installing on Have you ever noticed that your bikes? Senate File 78 and House File 53 would allow when a motorcycle event your bike to still be registered as a motorcycle. One should really stands out in your mind, notice that you go from 2 wheels to 4 wheels by installing it’s usually because of extreme these kits. Big difference when Iowa’s law defines a weather conditions? I know motorcycle as 2 or 3 wheels. It’s not surprising that some of we’ve been on a lot of really you have been getting hassled by the man because they are gorgeous rides where the sun not legal in Iowa. was shining and the temps were just right, and we’ve Funny thing I noticed though, except for ABATE members, spent time at rallies where the there were no other bikers at the capitol to support the weather was pretty decent, but you know which ones I remember? I remember the time a bunch of us were riding home from J&P’s Open House and we were caught in a downpour that was so heavy that Mark and I didn’t know we had pulled off the road within 50 feet of some friends we had been riding with earlier. We all spent the rest of the day kind of hopscotching home, dodging the lightning storms by riding till it became too dangerous and then huddling together under whatever gas station over-hangs or car washes were available to us. Every rainstorm we’ve ridden in since then has been compared to THAT one. And I remember a particular spring party where the temps dropped down to 38 degrees and the wind blew so hard that it was ripping apart tents and throwing chairs into the campfire. I think I put on every piece of clothing that I’d taken with me, and 28 - TRMI MAY 2011
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I was still cold. A bunch of folks went home, but the ones that stuck it out still talk about it to this day. There’s just something about shared misery that gives you the measure of a person. You know they’ve lived through some stuff and they’re not just talking out of theory. This same principle applies to the big things in life, too, like going through a divorce, losing a loved one, having a bad wreck, being deployed to action with the military, losing your job, being a victim of child sexual abuse, grappling with drug or alcohol addiction. It›s hard to talk to someone about these issues if you think the other person has no concept of what you›re going through. The unspoken fear is that if you reveal your problem, the other person will judge you or look down on you. What you really need is to be able to talk to someone who has been through this and come out on the other side as a triumphant survivor. Do you think of God as being one of those who would judge you and look down on you for your problems and sins? He sits up there in His perfect heaven, so what does He know about the misery we endure on this earth? The Bible tells us that Father God and Jesus had a conference, and Jesus agreed to leave the perfection of heaven and come down here to the earth to live under the same conditions as the rest of us. Did you grow up without your biological father in the house? So did Jesus. Have you lived your entire adult life without finding a mate to share life and love with? So did Jesus. Have you been betrayed by your best friends? So was Jesus. But while we often don›t have a choice about our circumstances, He DELIBERATLY chose to live this
way so that we would know that He wasn’t just talking out of theory. We know that He lived through some stuff and He knows how to help us. The book of Hebrews, chapter 4, verses 15 and 16, tell us this about Jesus: “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are -- yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Don’t allow your fear of rejection to keep you from gaining peace and freedom through Jesus Christ. He came through the misery as a triumphant survivor so that you don’t have to go it alone. Talk to Him. May God bless you. Karla Mark and Karla Cornick are Iowa Area Reps for the Christian Motorcyclists Association. Find out more www.cmausa.org.. about CMA and God›s plan for you at www.cmausa.org
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day trips with Doc So to continue on south out of town follow the back road that goes to the left for a scenic run, but stay to it, you will come to the end where it meets up with old 169 again and at this point you will see on the west side of the road a pond, another place to cool off, rest or even take a casual dip in the water! After drying off, we keep moving south to highway 34, and change course to head east! No, Not the rock band, direction east...to Osceola and we always stop in to visit the fine people at Chipps H-D! The girls up front always have a friendly hello to all who stop in to visit, and there is a big guy who is behind the parts counter ready to share all he can, even his pizza if ya get there at the right time! At this point, most of those on the run are ready to grab a bite, and there are several places to choose from in town. You can make your choices, according to what you like, mine is almost always the loose meat sandwich shop found out by that gambling place named after a neon cowboy! It may be a little out of the way but, hey, It’s worth it! The choices are plenty, the prices are cool, and I recommend trying the chilidog basket, just enough to satisfy the hunger, but not I live in the heart of Dallas County, just west of the city make a guy miserable from over-stuffing oneself! Adel, with lots of farm ground and timber stands and since the spring plowing has begun, the scent of fresh Now you have changed course again and heading up 65/69 the road does an easy twist and turn, through turned earth is always in the air, along with natural the country. I love cutting curves like these, but fertilizer from the cattle and hog operations, but hey, keep a watchful eye for blue hairs in Cadillacs, aka if ya don’t like it, you can always go in the comfort of Q-tips, Sunday drivers, traffic jammers, or lost elderly Ozzy and Harriet’s SUV! looking for a fruit stand! Soon enough the town of Adel, which is the Dallas County seat, remains a quiet Indianola shows up on the horizon and what do ya know? Another H-D shop, Route 65! This place has little town just out of the reaches of big city noise a parking lot big enough for a family reunion and a and lights. The air is cooler and does not smell like polka band, or test drive grounds for semi-trucks with smog! It is filled with lots of friendly folks, with the trailers! In my many visits here, the staff has always traditional town square business, and restaurants ready to serve you. It also provides a campground on been helpful and friendly with the exception of one grumpy! Pay no mind, and don’t let that spoil your day, the north side with the Raccoon River running along it for recreational use! This makes for a good starting I found it entertaining, and got a kick out of it! and ending place for a round trip of 150 to 180 miles Leaving Route 65 going north again through Indianola, of scenery, winding roads, and straight ribbons of and depending on how much times spent browsing highways. or laughing at the antics of the grumpy one, you can take old 28 west through Martensdale and Bevington, South of Adel is DeSoto, small and quiet just off the which is the I 35 interchange, and then on into I 80 four lane where there is a couple of gas and Patterson. Now some better roads, with curves to goes but not much more. As you go out of town to Winterset, you will witness the landscape change from cut and rolling hills to cross! You will find yourself just north of Winterset again on 169, or if you have the rolling hills to a rougher terrain, bedrock along the time and don’t mind 4-lanes of cagers, cruise through roads, deep river valleys and lots of green, oh yeah, Indianola on 65 to the big city. Use caution as you and FRESH air! approach the south side of the city, taking the bypass highway 5 around to Altoona and north again to Winterset is the birth place of The “Duke” John Bondurant. Wayne, and some of the last of covered bridges around. To see these, one would have to go off the beaten path and down a gravel road, but the scenery Just on the south side of Bondurant I found a cut through road 415 that leads you into Ankeny, and is worth it!! Just watch out for the critters and loose continues to Polk City. Here is a typical small town road gravel. On into town past the Madison County court house is the Pheasant Run Bar and Grill, a nice complete with a gazebo in the town square and a bait shop for all your fishing needs, but this ride is not over friendly place to cool off and quench a thirst! The ole boy who owns it has this green and yellow decor that by any means, Keep riding, staying on 415 through drives a person to act a little crazy, but there may be a Madrid, follow the business route west to Woodward. I have had more fun in this town with the elderly folks, madness to his method there somehow! always smiling and friendly, ready to joke, or tell a Greetings fellow Motorcycle enthusiasts, yea, it’s me again, the “Old Schooler” with a question. Are we ready to Ride? Have you made ready your favorite mode of transportation for the upcoming season of exploring country roads, best kept secrets and hidden treasures of this State we call Iowa? I live by the credo-Never in the Driveway, Always on the highway! Even though Mother Nature has been toying with my brain, making me think this Winter thing is never going to go away, I try to stay positive, kinda hard to do though when your forehead is froze from cold, like an immaculate brain freeze without the slushy, and from the outside in. I am ever pursuant to the adventure of a RIDE! It calls to me, and I have to answer! I refuse to suffer from PMS...(parked motorcycle syndrome) and I have logged many miles already, searching for those treasures I spoke of earlier, and here is one of my trips which will take us through Dallas, Madison, Clarke, Warren and Polk counties! It’s kinda short, but this time of year, nobody likes to get caught out riding when the temps start falling too far.
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story, or listen while you share one, ask if anyone has heard the singing biker or Stop in at Lou’s Cafe to find a large collection of chickens, ceramic, wooden, or otherwise, visit, or get a HOME COOKED meal, by the way, they have a great chili-dog too! If you have chose to come this far, it is getting late in the day, and riding south to the 141 exchange can lead you to a view of a most colorful sunset as you go west to 169, and here you are almost back to your starting point, get off onto 169 head south through Minburn, one of the last places in town claims to have the coldest beverages around, it is a small place, but I have seen the parking lot so full of bikes, cars and trucks, it makes you wonder if there is a basement to it! So it is my guess there is some truth to it, not that I have ever been there myself, but if you do stop in, tell Ron hello, and enjoy! Ten miles farther to the south is Adel...and this trip is finished, we have it at around 180 miles, more or less, time wise is really up to the individual rider, ride it steady, it is still a full day, take it easy and you will come back in the dark, and if you run it like a time trial, you may just be tempted to do it again! This run is fun, has a lot to see, most of the roads are good condition, with a little 4 lane time. We have discovered good food, good beverage, friendly folks, who are always curious about your bike, and willing to help if an emergency arises! The view of the countryside is something you gotta take in, and hey, if ya take a camera, you may just get yourself a Kodak moment! Ride safe, enjoy the scenery, be friendly to the folks out there, and remember a happy biker always carries a couple of toothpicks with him/her...to clean the bugs from their teeth! Till the tanks run out of gas, Doc Do you have an amazing route you like to run? Know of some well kept secrets tucked away and down a back highway somewhere? Maybe a private bike shop, owned by a loony with a unorthodox building style? send me a E-mail or call me to share your info poppa45doc@yahoo.com 515-975-3893 leave a message in brief detail, your contact info best time to reach you, and I will do my best to get back to you, I look forward to hearing from you and even letting me trip with you and yours! Doing my best to be, Always on the highway-never in the driveway!!!
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NCOM BIKER NEWSBYTES Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish, National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) CONGRESS ACTS TO REINFORCE BAN ON NHTSA LOBBYING
Senate Amendment 264 would exempt youth off highway vehicles from the overly-restrictive leadcontent provisions of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008, which has decimated the youth motorsports industry and will ban their sale at the end of the year unless the CPSIA language is changed.
May is Motorcycle Awareness Month across the country, and Congressional lawmakers are introducing a resolution on May 2 to continue current restrictions on NHTSA that prevent the federal transportation agency from lobbying state and local governments to enact helmet laws.
Meant to protect our children from imported toys with lead-based paint, the CPSIA prohibits the making, importing, distributing or selling of any product intended for children 12 and under that contains more than a specified amount of lead in any accessible part. The unintended consequences The lobbying ban was originally amended into the were that, because some parts such as brakes and Transportation Equity Act in 1998, but U.S. Rep. Jim battery components contain lead, dealerships were Sensenbrenner (R-WI) and his House colleagues want barred from selling motorcycles and ATVs intended to reinforce the prohibitions on NHTSA lobbying and for young riders, as well as replacement parts. focus the agency’s efforts on crash prevention and rider education. The Klobuchar amendment is similar to H.R. 412, the Kids Just Want to Ride Act introduced in the House According to the resolution, the U.S. House of by Rep. Denny Rehberg (R-MT), and would amend Representatives “supports efforts to retain the ban on S. 493, the Small Business Innovation Research the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Reauthorization Act. ability to lobby state legislators using federal tax dollars, encourages continued growth in the You can contact your Congressional representatives motorcyclist community, and encourages owners and through the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224riders to be responsible road users.” 3121 to urge their support. The resolution, similar to a version Sensenbrenner introduced last session, goes on to say that the House “recognizes the importance of motorcycle crash prevention as the primary source of motorcycle safety (and) encourages NHTSA to focus on motorcycle crash prevention and rider education as the most significant priorities in motorcycle safety.”
BIKERS PROTEST MOTORCYCLE-ONLY CHECKPOINTS
“KIDS JUST WANT TO RIDE” COMPANION BILL INTRODUCED IN U.S. SENATE
The crowd denounced the overly-invasive and discriminatory roadblocks as unconstitutional and chanted “No more profile stops” and “Education, not checkpoints!”
U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) has introduced an amendment to exempt youth motorcycles and ATVs from the “lead law” that will effectively ban the sale of these machines. 32 - TRMI MAY 2011
Hundreds of motorcyclists from around Georgia rode to the Capitol to rev their engines in protest of a federal grant the Georgia State Patrol is using to conduct motorcycle-only checkpoints.
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The protest rally came two weeks after the state patrol conducted motorcycle checkpoints on Interstates 75 and 95 during Daytona Bike Week, during which troopers stopped motorcyclists at roadblocks to check for proper paperwork, approved helmet, and properly functioning equipment.
of passenger vehicle drivers involved in accidents with motorcycles failed to perceive the motorcyclist. And while 73.1% of riders attempted some form of collision avoidance, 32% nonetheless experienced some form of loss of control during the maneuver. While all this may seem disheartening to riders, there are steps that can be taken to maximize safety; other “The roadblocks are a violation of our rights and are findings from the study indicate: Over half of the a pure attempt at profiling,” said Dan Forrest, State accidents occurred at intersections - Although 90% Director of ABATE of Georgia. “Having a registration, of those involved in crashes were wearing helmets, proof of insurance and an endorsement on our 9% of helmeted riders lost their helmets in crashes license does make us safe. Loud pipes never killed due to improper fit, fastening or damage - Younger anyone.” riders -- those between 18 and 25 years of age -- crashed at a higher percentage and riders aged Georgia is the first state to conduct such checkpoints 41 to 55 crashed less frequently - Riders wearing under a federal grant from the National Highway dark clothes were more likely to crash than others Traffic Safety Administration as part of a $350,000 - Modified conventional street motorcycles were pool of funds available to as many as five law over-represented in crashes in the study, but engine enforcement agencies nationwide to test the size did not appear to be a factor - Unlicensed bikers effectiveness of a New York State Police pilot were more likely to crash than properly licensed program. bikers - Weather was deemed to be a factor in only 7.5% of accidents. Several motorcycle organizations are urging riders to call on Governor Nathan Deal to cancel WEIRD NEWS: HONDA WORKING ON the remainder of the checkpoints, which will be MOTORCYCLE SEATBELTS scheduled over the next 20 months at undisclosed locations during unannounced times. Yes, you read it right…Honda is working on a system of seatbelts for motorcycles. Seems crazy, but it Some in Congress have also questioned NHTSA’s appears to be a serious project judging from the grant and called for Transportation Secretary patents Honda has filed for the system, and images Ray LaHood to pull the plug on future funding for posted on BikersPost.com. motorcycle-only checkpoints. Rep. Tom Petri (R-WI), who recently co-sponsored legislation to prohibit According to the website, the belt arrangement is such grants, called the checkpoints “outrageously designed for larger touring bikes like the Gold Wing intrusive.” where the rider won’t be moving around much in the seat, and the belt can work with the airbag to more Indeed, many of the protesters at the March 23rd effectively reduce injuries. rally held signs in support of US House Resolution 904 which would prevent the US DOT from providing However, Honda apparently has recognized that funds to states which would be used for motorcycle in a lot of accidents it’s better to be away from the roadblocks. bike rather than attached to it, so their new seatbelt system also has elements of ejector seat: When the In the meantime, motorcyclists are also awaiting a computer senses that the bike is irretrievably tipping court ruling on the constitutionality of the New York over it releases the entire seat, with the rider still checkpoints, being challenged by N.Y. Aid to Injured attached, and inflates an airbag backrest. “The idea Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) Attorney Mitch Proner on behalf is that having ejected you slide down the road in a of his clients as well as representing the interests sitting position, with the seat betwixt your hide and of ABATE of New York and the National Coalition of the asphalt. Sort of extreme tobogganing.” Motorcyclists (NCOM). Of course, nobody envisioned airbags on a EUROPEAN STUDY YIELDS INSIGHT INTO motorcycle either, before Honda’s R&D team put one MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS on their Gold Wing as a factory option. European researchers discovered some interesting facts about the common causes of motorcycle accidents. The Motorcycle Accidents In Depth Study (MAIDS) was based on 921 motorcycle accidents, which included 103 fatalities, across France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. While some of the findings were expected, others were unanticipated. Not surprisingly, the study indicates that the motorcyclists most often collided with passenger vehicles. Surprisingly or not, 70%
QUOTABLE QUOTE: “How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in life you will have been all of these.” ~ George Washington Carver, scientist (1864-1943)
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I recall my first time with a condom. I was 16. I went in to buy a packet of condoms at the pharmacy. In those days it took a lot of guts to go in a store and ask for that kind of item because everyone in town knew you, and there was no doubt the young lady behind the counter knew what they were for. She was working as an assistant behind the counter, and she could see that I was really embarrassed by the whole procedure. She handed me the package and asked if I knew how to wear one. I honestly answered, ‘No, not really.’ So she unwrapped the package, took one out and slipped it over her thumb. She cautioned me to make sure it was on tight and secure. I apparently still looked confused. So, she looked all around the store to see if it were empty. It was. ‘Just a minute,’ she said, and walked to the door and locked it. Taking my hand, she led me into the back room, unbuttoned her blouse and removed it. She unhooked her bra and laid it aside. ‘Do these excite you?’ She asked. Well, I was so dumb-struck that all I could do was stand there with my mouth open and nod my head. She then said it was time to slip the condom on. As I was slipping it on, she dropped her skirt, removed her panties and lay down on a desk. ‘Well, come on’, she said, ‘We don’t have much time.’ So I climbed on her. It was so wonderful that, unfortunately, I could no longer hold back and ZAPP!, I was done within a very few moments. She looked at me with a bit of a frown. ‘Did you put that condom on?’ she asked. I said, ‘sure did,’ and held up my thumb to show her. She then beat the crap out of me... Women have always been hard for me to figure out.
had just started to read her book, replied to the total stranger, “What would you want to talk about?”“Oh, I don’t know,” said the congressman. “How about global warming, universal health care, or stimulus packages?” as he smiled smugly.“O.K.,” she said. “Those could be interesting topics but let me ask you a question first. A horse, a cow, and a deer all eat the same stuff grass. Yet a deer excretes little pellets, while a cow turns out a flat patty, but a horse produces clumps. Why do you suppose that is?”The legislator, visibly surprised by the little girl’s intelligence, thinks about it and says, “Hmmm, I seriously have no idea.”To which the little girl replies, “Do you really feel qualified to discuss global warming, universal health care, or the economy, when you literally don’t know shit?” And then she went back to reading her book. ******************************************** An 86-year-old man goes for a physical. All of his test results come back normal. The doctor says, “Eddie everything looks great. How are you doing mentally and emotionally? Are you at peace with God?” Eddie replies, “God and I are tight. He knows I have poor eyesight, so he’s fixed it so when I get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom, *poof* the light goes on. When I’m done, *poof* the light goes off.” “Wow, that’s incredible,” the doctor says. A little later in the day, the doctor calls Eddie’s wife. “Marianne, he says, Eddie is doing fine but I had to call you because I’m in awe of his relationship with God. Is it true that he gets up during the night and *poof * the light goes on in the bathroom, and when he’s done, *poof* the light goes off?” “OH MY GOD!” Marianne exclaims.“He’s peeing in the damn refrigerator again!”
******************************************** ******************************************** “Super B.” a good old southern gentleman in his later 70’s, was sitting at his local watering hole; The Stable”, when a really sexy woman in her late 30’s walked up to him and whispered, “hey good lookin’, let’s you and me run upstairs and make passionate love”. Super B. looks at her, smiles, and calmly replies, “well, darlin’, that’s a dang fine idea and I’m certainly game, but you’re just going to have to choose one or the other as there’s no way both those together are gonna’ happen.”
Just got off the phone with a friend in Anchorage, Alaska. He said that since early this morning the snow has been falling heavily and it is nearly waist high. The temperature is dropping way below zero and the north wind is increasing, and his wife has done nothing but look through the kitchen window all morning. He says that if it gets much worse, he may have to let her in. ********************************************
******************************************** So this spoiled rotten preppie is pulled over by a hardworking, veteran cop for going 70 in a 30 m.p.h. suburb A congressman was seated next to a little girl on an with kids playing in the yards, and as the cop walks up airplane so he turned to her and said, “Do you want to the top down convertible BMW the kid says, “Do you to talk? Flights go quicker if you strike up a conver- have any idea whom my Father is?” and the veteran sation with your fellow passenger.”The little girl, who cop cooly replies, “what….., your Mom never told you?”. www.thunderroadsiowa.com
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From the Woman’s Seat
You have tt here this month and I want to talk about a topic that is near and dear to my heart. It does not have anything to do with coming from a woman’s perspective, except that it is being written by yours truly. The discussion will be about our flag, Memorial Day, and the Red Poppy. I spent four years active duty and an additional four years of inactive service in the United States Marine Corps. The military has a place within me that can never be taken away. I learned many life lessons on how to protect myself as well as I was given structure and discipline that I was very much lacking growing up. The military became my foundation that I continue to grow upon every day. The only other place I have felt the “brotherhood” would have to be in the motorcycle community but that is another story for another day.
I found the following list on http://www.usmemorialday. org/observe.htm on how we should observe Memorial Day: 1.Visiting Cemeteries and placing flags or flowers on the graves of our fallen heroes. 2.Visiting Memorials 3.Flying the United States Flag at half-staff until noon 4.By flying the ‘POW/MIA Flag’ as well (Section 1082 of the 1998 Defense Authorization Act). 5.By participating in a “National Moment of Remembrance” at 1500 hours to pause for one minute and think upon the true meaning of the day, and for Taps to be played. 6.By renewing a pledge to aid the widows, widowers, and orphans of our fallen dead, and to aid the disabled veterans.
The United States flag is designed with meaning. First a bit of history; originally Betsy Ross had sewn the original flag that was first used by the Continental Army under George Washington’s control on January 1, 1776. His base camp was on Prospect Hill and George Washington gave the command to fly high our flag. The Continental Army was laying siege to Boston that had been taken over by the British Army. It was called the Grand Union flag then.
In 1915 a woman, Moina Michael was inspired by a poem “In Flanders Fields” she had written her own poem: We cherish too, the Poppy red. That grows on fields where valor led; it seems to signal to the skies that blood of heroes never dies. She then started to wear the red poppy on Memorial Day, in honor of those who died serving the nation during war. She sold the poppies to her friends and co-workers with money going to benefit the servicemen in need. The tradition has The meaning of the United States flag starts with the spread to other counties. A Madam Guerin from France thirteen horizontal stripes, with seven red that alterwhile visiting the United States learned of the custom nates with the 6 white. The stripes are in represenand made artificial red poppies to raise money for war tation of the original thirteen colonies with the stars orphaned children and widowed women. In 1922 the represent each of the fifty states of the union. Even the VFW became the first veterans’ organization to sell colors have meaning; Red symbolizes Hardiness , the poppies nationally. In 1948 the United States Post capacity for enduring or sustaining hardship; capabilOffice honored Ms. Michael for her role in founding the ity of surviving under unfavorable conditions and Valor, Poppy movement with a red three cent postage stamp. boldness or determination in facing great danger, espe- To this day the VFW continues to sell the Red Poppy to cially in battle; heroic courage; bravery. White symbol- help other soldiers in need. Before you walk by take a izes Purity and Innocence and last but not least Blue moment to tell them thank you for their unselfish giving is for Vigilance, Perseverance and Justice. This pretty to make life easier for our hard working troops. much sums up America. As you are riding, keep in mind the soldiers who have Memorial Day is the last Monday of the month of May. sacrifices so much for our freedoms. Have a safe and Decoration Day was the original title starting in 1865 Happy Memorial Day, and ride safe. with the community decorating the graves of the fallen Until next month.......tt United States soldiers. Flowers were left on the soldiers’ graves as a way to commemorate or to honor those that have given their life in our nation’s service. In conducting my research I have found that many a town lay claim to be the first to start the tradition of Memorial Day. The official birth place of Memorial Day in Waterloo, New York was declared by Congress and President Lyndon Johnson in 1966. A quote that says it all “…gather around their sacred remains and garland the passionless mounds above them with choicest flowers of springtime…let us in this solemn presence renew our pledges to aid and assist those whom they have left among us as sacred charges upon the Nation’s gratitude, --the soldier’s and sailor’s widow and orphan.” – General John Logan, General Order No. 11, 5 May 1868. 36 - TRMI MAY 2011
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Well my peeps, April is about over. I always thought this was the greatest month of the year. Not just because it is when everything begins getting cleaned up and starts turning green again. Or even the fact that it is the very month I was brought into this world (Thank you Mom and Dad btw). OK enough with the self promotion and ego trip back to the basics. April, to me, is the true beginning of the riding season. True; we have to go through a lot of rain but that is a great thing. It is nature’s way of cleaning up the mess left over from the winter. Clearing that leftover salt, sand, and that lovely calcium build up off the road so that it doesn’t do any damage to your ride. By now you should have all the oils changed, bolts tightened, and general maintenance all done to your motorcycle. Hopefully a lot of you even managed to get some major projects done to your bike so that you can get out there and enjoy them. I personally did and am now waiting on a paint job to be finished. I am presenting you one more majorish project that could really benefit many riders out there.
he met a co-worker, Lisa; who low and behold went to the same college and classes. While Bert sat in the back of the classroom with sunglasses over his eyes recovering from the previous nights misadventures, his own future wife sat in the front with her perfect attendance and grades. Who knew their worlds would become so closely interlaced. Bert had also participated in the motocross circuit around Detroit but with everything working out the
way it did he retired from competition but the riding bug never left him. Then in the mid 90’s Bert’s friend lent him his 1993 Fat-Boy for a weekend trip. He fell in love with it all right there. He soon went out and bought his own 1994 FLSTN. Sadly a year later it was stolen at Daytona Bike Week. With the insurance money he decided to build his own custom bike. After doing so he realized that it just vibrated way too much, so he did the easy and cheap thing and changed out the rear pulley. This reduced the vibration, but it also killed the performance. With this Carroll Cycle Center hosted problem in mind, his very own gears Bert Baker and his cohort James in his head started turning. With his Simonelli from Baker Drivetrains knowledge about GM’s new at the time recently to show off some of their six-speed transmissions, a few maxed incredible products. Most in out credit cards, an empty retirement the V-Twin world have heard of and college funds, he quit GM. He Baker transmissions, and I was started working on prototypes that impressed with how down to earth would soon prove to all be worth it. and personable Bert Baker is. You From the ground up, he and his wife would never know looking at him Lisa have built a fabulous all American with full sleeves tattoos, that he Made company, dedicated to premium is a graduate of Michigan State University’s Mechanical Engineering drive train products for your American motorcycle. Baker Drivetrain now program. Bert started his career out produces many great products not of college at General Motors as the only transmissions, but also high Senior Project Engineer to manual performance clutches, pulleys, and transmissions in their Oldsmobile line of cars. During his years at GM even oil pans. www.thunderroadsiowa.com
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Their flagship product is the OD6 (OverDrive SixSpeed). To this day they say it is, hands down, the best overdrive 6-speed transmission on the market. It is rated for up to 165ft/lbs of continuous work and will work in any 5-speed big-twin Harley built from 1985 to 2006. Now from the original OD6 they refined and massaged it and came out with the DD6 (Direct Drive 6-Speed). With the DD6 1st through 3rd gears are straight cut for that strength you want. 4th and 5th are helical cut gears for that quiet and smooth ride and 6th gear is a direct drive. Which means no under drive or overdrive in top gear, minimum wear and tear on your drive train and maximum fuel efficiency which is a huge factor this day in age? They have an OD6 that will fit in any Harley big twin from 1985 to 2006. The DD6 fits from 1990-2006. Most all 5-speed riders out there that want one more gear; Baker Drive train can get it done for you. Now for the cure for the Harley 6-speed… many riders complained about the “5th gear whine” in the early 6-speeds from 2006-2009. Baker made a fix for this problem. It’s called the F6F (Factory 6 Fix). This kit replaces your factory 5thgear setup with a new Diamond ground pair of gears which reduces the “whine”. The kit also includes a new billet aluminum bearing door that houses two bearings that are 28% wider than stock to eliminate that Phantom lever movement that the stock ones cause.
Twin 5-speeds, the F6R for the 6-speeds and the DD6RV for the Direct Drive 6-speeds. With a simple handlebar mounted toggle switch you can easily shift from neutral into reverse and it is just like any other gear in your bike. Let out the clutch and you’re rolling. Instead of the embarrassing electric motor whine having to do the work, this is just another gear added to your transmission to help you ease your bike into place. Due to the location of the safety solenoid on the actuator for this setup up it can only be used with certain exhausts or your exhaust may need some slight modifications. Once you try it though it will be well worth it. Bert even did one of his famous reverse burnouts in the shop for us. You can find a video of him doing it on You Tube. One last thing that Bert covered was the +1 oil pan. Owners that have 2007 – newer touring bike know that the motor gets pretty toasty between the legs and that’s not the kind of heat I want down there. This oil pan not only holds one more quart of oil but also has a redesigned baffling system on the inside which makes a huge improvement over the stock one. Instead of having the feed and return only two inches from each other in the front of the pan Baker’s pan has the feed located in the rear which forces all the oil through the entire pan for not only cooling purposes but also full system circulation. If you’re worried about the ground clearance, it is not an issue. The pan is wider not deeper. It uses full room between the frame to keep the stock ride height and ground clearance. Now there are many more products that Baker produces. So stop by their website www.bakerdrivetrain.com and check out what other great products they have. Hopefully I’ve enlightened you about Baker Drivetrain. The company it is and the people that have built. They truly are great people and believe in the American way of life. Tony Darveau Carroll Cycle Center
For riders who have a 6-speed but that still would like more. Baker has produced the DD7. The DD7 eliminates the five problems a lot of people have complained about. The first two are the Phantom clutch movement and the 5th gear whine. They also made the first gear shorter to have easier launches off the line, they shift smoother due to the linear roller ball detent, and they eliminated the shift CLUNK due to the heavy main shaft. If you are a little more money minded and don’t wish to spring the jingle for the DD7 setup. They came out with the Cruise Drive Pulleys to help fix that too tall first gear. The 30 tooth pulley will be the largest improvement but it does require a new belt to be installed. The 31 tooth makes an improvement without hurting your top-end power as much. Any rider that has a hard time backing your bike out of a parking spot or simply out of your garage; Baker has come up with the solution with the F5R for the Big 38 - TRMI MAY 2011
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Honor and Remember His story has stayed with me ever since, constantly reminding me that there are people out there who are giving their all and needing recognition, and I am finally listening to my inner writer and getting this out to those who may not be aware of this wonderful thing that this man is trying to accomplish. Many people In the months following Tony’s funeral, George dealt believe that the American Flag honors the fallen, but with his loss and sorrow by visiting other families who that really is not the case. The American flag stands had lost loved ones in Iraq. He began to sense that for what we believe the unity of our people and the he had joined the ranks of a unique fellowship. These diversity of our nation. It is a symbol of what we fight families were only the latest additions to the group that for, rather than an emblem to honor those fallen. originated with the American Revolution. These were the first soldiers to shed their blood for our freedoms, The Honor and Remember Flag is very distinctive, and have the ultimate sacrifice, they gave their lives. yet simple. Each detail on the flag symbolizes an important part of the overall meaning of the flag’s George found another message. It is intended common factor among to be flown below the flag the families of these fallen of the United States of soldiers. They wanted America. The Red Field to know two things: their represents the blood sacrifice was not in vain and d spilled by brave men and that the nation would never women in Americas’ military forget. These concerns throughout our history, who led George on a quest gave their lives so that our to discover if there was nation would remain free. a universally recognized The White Field below the symbol that specifically gold star recognizes the acknowledges the American purity of sacrifice. There Service men and women is no greater price an who never made it home. American can pay than To his surprise, he found to give his or her life in nothing. Thus the Honor service to our country. The and Remember Flag was Blue Star represents active conceived. I’d like to introduce you to a special person we met in Waterloo at the HOG Rally last summer. His name is George Lutz and on December 29, 2005, his son, George Anthony Lutz II (Tony) was killed by a sniper’s bullet while he was on patrol in Fallujah, Iraq.
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service in military conflict. This symbol originated with World War I, but on this flag it signifies service in all wars from the American Revolution to present day. The Gold Star signifies the ultimate sacrifice of a warrior in active service who will not return home. Gold reflects the value of the life that was given. The Folded Flag signifies the final tribute to an individual life presented to the family for their significant loss. The Flame is an eternal reminder of the spirit that has departed this life yet burns on in the memory of all who knew and loved the fallen hero. “We will always Honor their selfless sacrifice and Remember them individually by name” I spoke with George at this rally, and admired his chosen transportation. He came in a huge coach bus that was painted with the Honor and Remember Flag and some slogans drawing your attention to the y petition. As I looked into this man’s eyes, I could see e the grief, the pride, and the determination e that told me he would see his mission accomplished no matter what. I didn’t talk to him long, because I could feel the tears welling up as I imagined what it ke would be like to lose one of my children.. It was all I could do to thank him for his son’s service and sacrifice. You can check the d website and learn about n this mission taken up by first, George, then many others as he toured and presented and educated everyone he met. You can catch up on all the states that have chosen to adopt this flag officially at the website, www.honorandremember.org. This man has a mission and he will accomplish it! Even if you don’t sign his petition, spread the word. Let’s not forget those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, let us Honor and Remember those that have fallen. Article by Annette Murphy vizslaboots@yahoo.com
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Vintage Rally at the National Motorcycle Museum June 3, 4 & 5, 2011 ANAMOSA, Iowa – If rows of stunning vintage bikes from around the world, gleaming in the sun, and piles of parts and fragments of motorcycle history in a swap meet bring a smile to your face, plan to attend the Vintage Rally June 3-5 at the National Motorcycle Museum in Anamosa, Iowa. While the Museum, in its new location holds over 300 fabulous motorcycles, the new Vintage Rally weekend is when even more fine machines line up out front for review. Judging will result in over 70 awards for owners of the best machines, including those best preserved for the "original unrestored" award. Enter your vintage bike, street, competition, custom, even mini, 1985 or earlier in the bike show. Bike show awards are sponsored by Motorcycle Classics magazine. Ace Cafe will present their sponsored award to the best Cafe Racer style motorcycle entered in the Customs and Specials Class during the Bike Show. Walk the swap meet and listen to a panel discussion on smart approaches to collecting or check out the Wall of Death Show. Join in as we dedicate the new special exhibition, Motorcycles at Work telling the stories of police, military, courier and other commercial and special purpose motorcycles. You'll also be able to check progress on the 1930 gas station restoration project. In addition, Hall of Fame inductees will be on hand to sign autographs and tell their important stories. A Sunday morning ride and lunch will be held, hosted by Motorcycle Classics magazine. After, enjoy the 62nd Annual Motorcycle Hill Climb and Swap Meet by the Midwest Hillclimber’s, just down the road and across the Wapsipinicon River from the Museum. This event will include a special Vintage Hill Climb class, sponsored by the National Motorcycle Museum and J&P Cycles® with a $500 cash purse. Mark your calendar and plan to attend! Admission for this event will be $10 a day, $20 for the weekend or $30 for the weekend with lunch on Sunday. The event price includes admission to the Museum. Cruise into the National Motorcycle Museum, located at 102 Chamber Drive in Anamosa, Iowa, and experience the extensive line of over 300 motorcycles from around the world as well as thousands of photographs, posters, postcards and pieces of motorcycle memorabilia, plus a fabulous collection of antique toys. Admission is $8.00 while children 12 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. The Museum’s winter hours are Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The National Motorcycle Museum is 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation. For more information, call 319-462-3925. Watch the National Motorcycle Museum website, www.nationalmcmuseum.org for further event details, the activities schedule and lodging information are finalized.
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Events Around Iowa 2011
Iowa Bike Nights Monday Fireside Grill Altoona Tuesday Legacy Sports Bar and Grill Waukee Gathering on the Grounds Iowa State Fairgrounds J&P Cycles Cruise Nights (Selected Tuesdays) Anamosa Wednesday Beer Barn and Grill Kirkman Amigos Fort Dodge Roar Into Harlan Downtown (3rd Wednesday) Harlan O’Kelly’s Pub Baxter Hooters West Des Moines Quaker Steak & Lube Council Bluffs Legacy Sports Bar & Grill Waukee Rusty Duck Dexter Boss Hawgs BBQ Des Moines Skatterkats Davenport, Iowa Thursday Trophy’s Bar & Grill Des Moines Daytona’s All Sports Bar Des Moines Screaming Eagle Bar & Grill Waterloo Beach House Humboldt DMAKU’s Tiki Bar and Grill Walnut Rides Bar and Grill Fort Dodge Full Throttle Thursdays BJ’s Waterloo Cedar River HD (1st and 3rd Thursdays) JR’s Bronson Grid Iron Grill & Sports Lounge Webster City Knuckleheads New Market Friday Knoxville Bike Night (1st Friday) Knoxville Throttle Down to “O” Town Osceola Fatboyz Saloon (2nd & 4th Friday) Grimes Bike Down to I-Town (3rd Friday) Indianola Ferg’s Grand Junction Hicklin Powersports Dinner Rides(4th Fridays) Grimes Sunday Haverhill Social Club (3rd Sunday) Haverhill Ickey Nickel Sioux City Daytona’s All Sports Bar Des Moines 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 as much information as you have to vernon@ thunderroadsiowa.com 48 - TRMI MAY 2011
Apr 29 Apr 29-30 Apr 30 Apr 30 Apr 30 Apr 30 May 1 May 6 May 6-7 May 7 May 7 May 7 May 7 May 7 May 7 May 7 May 13 May 14 May 14 May 14 May 14 May 14 May 14 May 15 May 21 May 21 May 21 May 22 May 22 May 27-30 May 26-28 May 28-29 May 28-29 May 28 May 28 May 28 May 29 May 29 Jun 3-5 Jun 3-5 Jun 4 Jun 4 Jun 4 Jun 4 Jun 4 Jun 4-5 Jun 5 Jun 11 Jun 11 Jun 11 Jun 11 Jun 11 Jun 10-11 Jun 10-12 Jun 12 Jun 15-18
Iowa Motorcycle Safety Forum ISU Scheman Bldg Ames, Iowa Vintage Torque Fest Maquoketa, Iowa SGT Kearney Memorial Run Spanky’s Emerson, Iowa Open House Leather & Hawgs Hornick, Iowa Bike Show/Expo/Swap Meet Sioux Center, Iowa Bikers Against Child Abuse Ride Des Moines, Iowa Blessing of the Bikes Floyd, Iowa Werner Cycle Works Night at the Ball Park Omaha, NE Breeze Cycle Host Triumph Na onal Open House Omaha, NE Open House Baxter Cycle Marne, Iowa Ride for Eva (Sycles for Sight) ALR Post Polk City, Iowa 7th Annual Bike Blessing and Ride Crapo Park Burlington, Iowa Bi-State Motorcycle Awareness Ride Quad Ci es Spring Open House Hawkeye HD Coralville, Iowa Cedar Rapids Chrome Divas Motorcycle Awareness Ride Pancake Breakfast and Run for the Son Sioux City, Iowa Opera on Heroes Free Concert Prairie Meadows Des Moines American Legion Bike Blessing Legion Post Polk City, Iowa 3rd Annual Women’s Fun Run Holstein’s HD Omaha, NE Woman’s Ride Hawkeye Harley Davidson Coralville, Iowa ABATE D16 Motorcycle Awareness Ride Waterloo, Iowa Revolu on Cycle Open House/Band/Hog Roast Baxter, Iowa Benefit Poker Run “Ride for Chris” Hornick, Iowa Opera on Heroes Cruise by Opera on First Response DM Cause for Paws Humane Society benefit Motorcycle Run Boone Blessing of the Bikes Cedar Memorial Church Davenport, Iowa 2nd Armed Forces Freedom Ride Cedar River HD Charles City IA ABATE D6 Pistol Shoot Missouri Valley, Iowa J & P Cycles Swap Meet Anamosa, Iowa Iron Horse Bike & Music Fes val Sabula, Iowa Circle of Pride Hog Wild Rodeo Conesville, Iowa Midway Tavern 13th Ann Fun Run, BBQ, Street Dance Soldier 2nd Anual Backwoods Bash Hwy 6 between Dexter & Redfield Sgt JJ Bonnell Poker Run Fort Dodge, Iowa Ride for Bev Algona, Iowa Cruise Night Heartland HD Burlington, Iowa 6th Annual Dan Sesker Memorial Poker Run Ogden, Iowa ALR 278 Open River Ride New Hampton, Iowa Iron Horse Rockin’ the Midwest by BON Members Sabula, Iowa Vintage Rally Na onal Motorcycle Museum Anamosa, Iowa Carroll Cycle Center Rock-N-Ride Carroll, Iowa Loud Pipes for the Silent Cancer Ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids 2nd Annual Songs for Sara Benefit Run Redfield, Iowa Rock N Ride for Hunger Lampe’s Pub Dunlap, Iowa MAG Motofest II Clear Lake, Iowa 500 Challenge Motorcycle Rally Sioux City, Iowa Anamosa Hill Climb and Swap Meet Anamosa, Iowa The Freedom Run Sco y’s Saloon Grundy Center, Iowa Bell Tower Fes val Poker Run & Bike Show Jefferson, Iowa Cedar Rapids Chrome Divas Toys for Tots Run M.I.N.E & AHA Poker Run Marble Rock, Iowa Pit Bike Races Heartland HD Burlington, Iowa Bikes at Blackhawk Lake Rally/Rodeo Lake View, Iowa ABATE D25 Motorcycle Rodeo Nevada, Iowa Angels for Sam Benefit Ride 17th Annual Mississippi River Motorcycle Rally Davenport, Iowa
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