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OPEN 7 DAYS
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 1
Thunder Roads Of Michigan
P.O.Box 56
Oscoda, MI 48750
Office: 989-861-0682
Fax: 989-739-1936
Cell: 989-906-2151
E-MAIL: [email protected]
www.thunderroadsmichigan.com
MICHIGAN STATE OWNERS / EDITORS
Joe & Pam Brinn
LAYOUT AND DESIGN
Barbara Garner / Thunder Publishing
ADVERTISING SALES
Thunder Roads Magazine
Subscription
MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTORS
Steve Taylor, Taylor Made V-Twins
“SHOP TALK”
Becky Shimek/Helmet Hair Magazine.com
“THE TOP TEN FEMALE BIKE BUILDERS”
Janea Little
“NATURE CALLS”
Name______________________________________
This magazine is dedicated to the loving memory of
my sister Sharon, who passed away from cancer.
Address____________________________________
National Founders
City_______________________________________
Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon
1421 Chapmansboro Road / Chapmansboro, TN 37035
Thunder Publishing, LLC Offices: 615-792-0040
e-mail:[email protected]
www.thunderroadsmagazine.com
State______________________________________
Zip_______________
Make Check payable to: Thunder Roads of Michigan
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 2
®
Chris Friske
“THE FEMALE PERSPECTIVE”
One year subscription to TRM is only $24 a year.
This will have TRM delivered right to your mail box,
every month…
Mail check and this form to: Thunder Roads of Michigan
P.O. Box 56
Oscoda, MI 48750
Mt. Clemens/Port Huron Area
Tom & Dawn Burg
810-533-9246
Thunder Roads Magazine® is a free monthly
publication. The cost of a one year subscription
is to cover the shipping and handling.
© THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THUNDER PUBLISHING, L.L.C. ALL
RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN
PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR
ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OCCUPIED BYTHE ERROR, SLANDER OFANY GROUP
OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND
OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LIABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND
UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PERSON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND CLAIMS MADE
BY ADVERTISERS AND AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN, AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT
THE POLICY OF THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES
NOT PROMOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.
FROM THE EDITORS
Wow! That’s all I have to say about the great response so far to our first
issue. A lot of work went into the first issue but it was well worth it. We never
realized how much work went into publishing a magazine, but we have a true
understanding of the commitment that is required now. I will say that it is definitely
been interesting. My wife and I are very excited about how well everything is
progressing. We hope that everyone was pleased with our very first issue. It
took a lot of work and the assistance from some really great people, including
advertisers, article writers and our layout person, Barb. It was a combined effort
and we would like to say “Thank You” to everyone who helped us with getting this
magazine back on track. And we plan on making this magazine even better for
our advertisers and readers alike in the future. We added a New Pullout Monthly
Calendar which started with our first issue. Look for that to be a recurring part of
every issue. And we are on the prowl for new feature article writers as well so
that each and every issue is beaming with interesting articles, with something for
everyone. Keep an eye out for our special “Focus On Michigan” issues starting
in May. We will be featuring a different area of the state each month through
October. Each special Focus issue will feature a local ride with map that was
recommended by local riders or clubs from that area. We will also cover biker
friendly establishments, lodging recommendations, restaurants, and other places
of general interest to the motorcycling community. This way you will have what
you need when you set out to discover what is available in The Great State of
Michigan, the Best of the Best so to speak.
Be sure to check out our web site. It is a great looking site and designed by Art
Cruse at CruseCom. Check it out. And if you can’t find one of our magazines close
by or if you just want to see it before it hits the shops, check it out on the web first.
We will keep the latest issue ready for you to download right from our web page.
And the photos on our Thunder Roads Web Cam will be changing frequently
throughout each month, so if you saw one of us taking pictures at an event that
you were at, keep checking because your picture may just show up on our site.
Our web site will feature links to important web sites, recent press releases from
the major motorcycle manufacturers, biker friendly establishments, and the most
up to date biker event listings found anywhere.
We need to make a correction to our last issue. It was brought to my attention that
the photos used for the Kris Krome cover and article were taken by Pat Bonish
Photography at www.bonishphoto.com. We apologize for this omission and regret
not crediting him for his work. They were spectacular photos and he deservers to
get credit for them.
No matter how much we say this, we can probably never say it enough. Please
let our advertisers know that you saw their ad in our magazine. This is how they
keep track of their marketing and they are the reason why we are able to continue
to bring this magazine FREE to you, the reader, each and every month. So let
them know that you saw it in Thunder Roads of Michigan magazine. They and
we appreciate it.
Remember, if you like what you see and read, let us know, and likewise, if you
don’t like something, let us know.
Remember,
WHERE THERE’S BIKES…
THERE’S GOING TO BE
THUNDER!
Keep safe, Keep riding and
God Bless our Troops.
Joe & Pam
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 3
FEATURES
International Motorcycle
Show
8
Custom Xmas
Giveaway
23
THUNDER ROADS OF MICHIGAN
Two-Up Riding
FOCUS ON MICHIGAN SPECIAL EDITIONS
20
will be featuring certain areas of the state in upcoming issues of the magazine. The focus will include:
Biker Friendly Establishments, Lodging, Food, Entertainment, Area Dealers,
Area Service/Repair shops, and an Area Recommended Road Trip.
Top Ten Female Bike
Builders
MAY Focus on: The Port Huron & Lexington Area
JUNE Focus on: The Mt. Clemens Area
JULY Focus on: The West Branch & Sunrise Side Area
AUGUST
Focus on: The Lapeer Area
SEPTEMBER Focus on: The Grand Rapids Area
24
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Veteran’s Corner.............................................10
Shop Talk................................................................11
ABATE of Michigan................................................12
The Jokers Wild.....................................................14
Readers Ride Bob Gabbard..................................15
Thundercam Monthly Calendar.............................16
Readers Ride Kelly Johnston................................18
The Female Perspective........................................19
Nature Calls Part 1 & 2.................................19 & 21
Manufacturer Press Releases..............................22
Event Calendar......................................................27
OCTOBER
Join the Thunder Roads
Sales Team
Thunder Roads Magazine of Michigan is
looking for a few special individuals who
want to make some extra dough doing what
they love.
M/C, Org., Assn......................................................30
For info, e-mail:
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 4
Thunder Roads of Michigan
989-861-0682
[email protected]
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GRAND RAPIDS, DETROIT AREA,
CLARKSTON / ROYAL OAK, LANSING,
AND TRAVERSE CITY.
KISS in the Kitchen................................................29
© THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THUNDER PUBLISHING.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT
WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO
BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OCCUPIED BY THE
ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE
AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR
LIABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A
PERSON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND CLAIMS MADE BY ADVERTISERS
AND AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN, AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE POLICY OF THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES
NOT PROMOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.
For more information on showcasing your product or services in one of these special advertising editions,
please contact:
We are looking for qualified people in the
following areas:
If you like to ride, attend events and have
lots of friends and connections, this could be
the most fun you’ll ever have making $$$.
Biker Friendly Directory.........................................28
Focus on: The Gaylord & Grayling Area
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[email protected]
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or simply pick up the phone and call us…
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989-861-0682
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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 5
NORTHEAST MICHIGAN’S TECHNOLOGY LEADERS
Parts & Service
for
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DAVE EDWARDS
TATTOOZ & BODY PIERCING
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EAST TAWAS, MI 48730
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VISION
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ATTTENTION BIKERS
THUNDER ROADS of Michigan is looking
for Guys and Gals for our “Readers Ride” feature
pages. The rules are simple:
558 South Lapeer Rd.
Oxford, MI 48371
1) You must be a resident of Michigan.
2) You must “Own” and ‘Ride” you own “Street Legal”
motorcycle.
If you are interested, please provide up to 10 photos
of yourself along with a brief write up about yourself,
your bike, or both. Please keep it clean and no nude
or vulgar photos please. All photos need to be 300dpi
or “best “resolution using a digital camera. Please
turn off your calendar and time feature.
248.628.2222
fastrac-usa.com
Patten # 6,966,734
MADE in the USA
You can submit either through e-mail or mail the
information and pictures on a CD (CD’s will not be
returned unless you provide SASE envelope with
request to return).
OR: You can contact our closest rep to your location
and set up an appointment for a photo shoot. Please
see the Thunder Roads Staff Section in this magazine
for phone numbers and e-mail addresses.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 6
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 7
The 26th Annual
Cycle World
International
Motorcycle Show in Novi
by Joe Brinn
If you happened to be one of the thousands of
people who flocked to the 26th Annual Cycle World
International Motorcycle Show that was held at the
Rock Financial Center in Novi January 5th, 6th
and 7th, then you left there in total awe. There is
always a lot of hype surrounding this show every
year and I had to go see what it was all about. And
as it turned out, it was all it was hyped up to be
and so much more. If you love two wheels or even
three, it was on display here. There was something
for everyone, no matter what your interest. From
sport bikes to cruisers, including both metric to
American, to Custom Big Twins and everything in
between. There were even activities for the kids as
well. It was truly a family affair, if your family is into
motorcycling that is.
This show featured almost all of the major
motorcycle manufacturers including BMW, Ducati,
Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Moto Guzzi,
Star, Suzuki, Ural, Victory, and Yamaha, listed
in alphabetical order. And then there were the
accessories, from helmets to leathers including
a leather fashion show. Yes, there were plenty of
local exhibitors represented at this show. Several
bike dealers, accessory dealers and some custom
shops as well. Some of our Michigan bred custom
bikers and their bikes were on hand including
Darrian Tefft of Jolly Roger Customs and bikes by
the Detroit Brothers. There were vendors hawking all
kinds of after market products for bikes and bikers.
Some items were brand new to the marketplace
while other items were the typical vendor exhibitor
products that you find at most rallies and events.
Not that was a bad thing, because people were
sure in the buying mood. Must have been all the
warm weather that we have been experiencing that
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 8
caused some bikers to be ready to sprint for new
duds or accessories in anticipation of maybe an
early riding season? There were original paintings
on display and for sale by Eric Herrmann, artist
renown for his unique and passionate motorcycle
paintings. Several local radio stations were
broadcasting live from the show. And everyone
had a chance to put their name in for a drawing for
a New Suzuki Boulevard M109R to be given away
at the end of the show tour in early 2007.
This show also featured some one of a kind bikes
that you may never get a chance to see again
up close. One of those was the World’s Fastest
Motorcycle, the BUB Streamliner 7. This high
speed 500hp two wheeler recently set the world
land speed record for motorcycles with a whopping
350 MPH this past September. Then there was the
tallest ride-able motorcycle, Big Toe. This bike spans
15 feet in length and is more than 7 feet tall. It has
a 300hp Jaguar V12 engine. BMS Choppers had
their Metric Revolutions TV Series Build Off winning
bike on display and it is easy to see why it won. The
tricked out design and the stunning paint job makes
it a sure winner at any show. People were hanging
around the bike in droves getting pictures.
Many of the big bike manufacturers had impressive
booth layouts with lots of bikes to sit on and try out.
This was definitely the place for someone who is
trying to figure what type of bike they really want.
Perspective buyers could go from manufacturer
to manufacturer, getting a feel for each of their
respective bikes. Obviously, there were no demo
rides, but sitting on a bike can help you decide if
it fits you or not. This was a great opportunity to
compare different makes and models, not only
prices but the different options that are available.
All of the major manufacturer’s 2007 models where
on display. If it wasn’t here, you probably don’t need
it anyways.
demonstration held at different times each day.
The Ball of Steel Stunt (BOSS) team performed
gravity-defying tricks including back flips and 360’s
to the crowds delight. A team of three brothers also
perform inside a steel globe, racing around inside
fast enough to make your head spin.
Other local Michigan based booths were: ABATE of
Michigan, American Harley-Davidson, Biker Bob’s
Harley-Davidson, Motor City Harley-Davidson,
Brighton Harley-Davidson, Davidson Motorsports,
Cycle Mart, Rosenau Powersports, Peacock
Limited, Total Powersports, Recreational Leisure
corporation, Nick’s Performance Powersports,
Lonestar Trike Conversions, Tire2Tire, Kelly &
Sons and Chubby’s Choppers just to name a
few. A number of local bike dealers staffed their
manufacturer’s booths, helping to promote their
product line. I apologize in advance if we have left
anyone out. There is no way to cover everyone
in the space of this article. But all of the local
businesses went all out to showcase their products
and services. And on top of all that, everyone we
came in contact with at each of the booths was
extremely pleasant and more than willing to help
you out and answer your questions. I have been
to thousands of different types of trade shows
throughout my many careers and I have to say that
this is one of the nicest and best managed I have
attended. Even with the huge crowds, the flow in
the aisles ways remained steady and the crowds
were manageable. The event center is large enough
to accommodate the crowds and the parking, and
the food vendors were not too expensive, not like
most shows that I have attended. So hats off to the
promoters of this event and to the exhibitors. I most
certainly plan on attending next year. And if you get
a chance to go next year, don’t pass it up. You will
not be disappointed.
And for those avid Motocross bikers, it was
here for you too. All kinds of motocross bikes,
accessories, and apparel were on display. Every
kind of sport bike was here for the viewing. And
the knowledgeable vendors were more than happy
to explain everything in detail. Oh yea, there were
also trucks, trailers, and four wheeled ATV’s and
even snowmobiles on display.
And if all of that was not enough to keep
you occupied, there was an extreme riding
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 9
THE VETERAN’S CORNER
The Veterans Corner is dedicated to all military veterans, both past,
present and future who are putting or have put their lives on the line
to protect the freedoms we so cherish and take for granted each and
everyday.
Items of interest to all veterans: The Air Force Memorial in Washington
D.C. was dedicated late last
year. This memorial honors
the 54,000 airman killed since
America’s air arm began
flying combat missions in
WWI in 1917. This $30 million
memorial is located on a 3arcre sit overlooking Arlington
National
Cemetery.
The
Memorial’s centerpiece is a
constellation of three stainless steel spires, which represent a precision
flying maneuver known as the “Bomb Burst”. When next in D.C. make
sure to check out this latest monument to our military veterans.
I would like to bring everyone’s
attention to a really good cause
and a noble organization. I
accidentally found this group
while doing research for another
article and after doing some
fact finding on them had to
let everyone know about this
patriotic group and what they are trying to do. The organization is called:
Give2TheTroops®. This dedicated group is a nonpartisan, non-political,
patriotic organization aimed at supporting U.S deployed and wounded troops
in harm’s way. They are a group made up totally of volunteers. They have been
supporting our troops with care packages and letters since 2002 so they are not
new to the plight of our servicemen and women. To date, they have sent more
than 26,000 packages of over 60 pounds each and more than 8 million cards
and letters to more than 600,000 U.S. Military troops.
The driving force and guiding
light behind this organization is
Andi Grant, a military wife who
discovered first hand how the
troops in harms way were not
always able to get or find some
of the basic need items because
of their deployment conditions.
“The mission of this organization
is to support the physical, spiritual, and moral health of America’s Armed Forces
in combat zones.”
There are branches in other
states, but not one in Michigan
at this time. But donations of
money or articles in need can
be sent to any branch office for
distribution. This organization
has been recognized by many
Heads of State including
President Bush for their many
tireless hours of devotion to the
needs of our troops overseas.
Numerous awards and Certificates of Appreciation have been bestowed on the
Give2TheTroops organization, and rightly so.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 10
Several state branches have had biker organizations conduct and host
charitable rides and events to help raise funds for the continued efforts of this
organization as well as raise awareness of their efforts. It would be great if
someone could start a branch right here in Michigan. I know that I tried myself
personally to find an organization here in Michigan that I could donate some
of our magazines to that could then make sure that Michigan military men and
women in Iraq or Afghanistan could get some info from home concerning the
biker community. But I was turned away by most organizations and even our
own Michigan National Guard office. I am not blaming anyone; it is a question
of resources or funds to send the packages to the troops. And most of these
organizations are strapped for money or are hampered by red tape. But this is
precisely what Give2TheTroops can do and does do every day. They provide
the necessary resources and act as a center or distribution point to get these
much needed supplies and donations of good will to our troops. But they
need our help to continue their task at hand. So if there is a biker organization
out there that is looking for a Great Charity Organization to hold an event or
rally for, then give them a call or check out their web site. There are a lot of
charitable organizations that can use our support, but there is nothing quite
like what Give2TheTroops does for our troops who are giving their life blood
to protect the Freedoms we cherish and but we sometimes take for granted.
Our Military is the glue that binds our nation together, in good times and in bad
times. Our nation and its principals were borne from the founding of our first
Military in 1776 as the Minutemen fought for our first rights as US citizens, and
they have continued to Serve, to Protect, and to Heal our nation ever since. We
can not afford, nor can we allow the Cindy Sheehan’s of the world to grab the
spotlight of our media and of the world’s perception of our nation’s resolve as
a whole or allow them to tarnish the image our Military and our commitment to
them. For more information on this organization, please go to their web site at:
www.Give2TheTroops.com.
The XEROX® Corporation has teamed up with Give2TheTroops to allow citizens
across the country, a way to send postcards to our troops free of charge. If you
go to their web site you can select a variety of cards with a number of preprinted
messages that are available, or write you own message. Xerox will then print
the card and send it to Give2TheTroops who will then mail the cards out to the
troops. All of this is free of charge to you. What a great idea and one that I have
already taken advantage of like so many others even famous celebrities. Over
10 million cards have been sent to date. Don’t wait; check out the web site now
at: www.letssaythanks.com.
And lastly, If you are involved with a biker organization that supports or
lends support through events, rallies, or other special activity for our
veterans, both past and present, please contact me and you may see it
here in a future article.
Dates and locations in Michigan for the Viet Nam Moving Wall have been
tentatively set. The schedule is as follows.
White Cloud
Eaton Rapids
Lapeer
South Range
August 2 – 6, 2007
August 8 – 13, 2007
August 15 – 21, 2007
August 29 – Sept 4, 2007
In closing, let me invite you to send in your comments and or questions
about the Veterans Corner to me at
[email protected].
Joe Brinn, State Owner/Editor
US Army Retired
Vietnam Vet
“I CAN BUY IT CHEAPER ON
THE INTERNET!”
By Steve Taylor
Sound familiar? Probably yes. Or how about “How To Build A Chinese
Chopper”? Probably not. Believe it or not these two phrases actually mean the
same thing. Confused? I’ll explain.
When shopping for part(s), what is the deciding factor for purchasing? Most
people would say price, and that is probably the # 1 mistake you could make.
Let me tell you why. A cheap price on a product should raise a red flag in your
mind because it is a direct indication of country of origin.
It’s the law, that all imported products have to be labeled with the country of
origin. It’s right there in front of you, all you have to do is read. Even when you
think you are “Buying American,” think again. All the way from the “Genuine
Harley-Davidson Parts” to the Billet Forward Controls you find in the ads of
magazines. Read the packaging, the imports have no boundaries, or limits.
“Made In Japan,” used to mean cheap, substandard product but not anymore.
Actually if the label say’s “Made In Japan” it is probably the best of the imports.
But what most packages will say is “Made In Taiwan” i.e.: CHINA. Not that I
have anything against the Chinese people, it’s just that I feel that we are being
invaded and our economy is being taken over. The manufacturing jobs in the
US are disappearing and are being replaced with “Service” type positions.
When I was in the Tool & Die trade I worked at numerous Tool and Die shops
in the area, none of which are around today. I can remember one shop in
particular in which every time a new hire would start, the owner of the shop
would look at his tools. If there were any China micrometers or calipers he
would say, “Do you know somebody in China, do you have relatives there?”
The new hire would always say no. “Well you are supporting them!” I would
always laugh but how true it is. We have companies that are closing everyday
in the U.S. because we will buy an imported product instead of being “Made
In America.”
you are pumping money into the economy. You are, in a way, but it’s not our
economy that you are supporting. I personally have issue with supporting
other countries when I see production facilities closing and the “Mom and
Pop” stores which are now a thing of the past.
Back to bikes. When people come into my shop (or call), and request a
price for a bike part most are sticker shocked. I don’t quote a price for
the “Cheapest I Can Get It For.” I quote a price for the best part made
i.e.: “Made In America.” I get a lot of bikes in the shop for repair for things
like leaking fuel valves, brakes not working, front ends leaking, etc. Almost
always the products that are failing are the cheap imported crap that people
install on their bikes. When I tell the customer that he needs a new starter
he states “It’s brand new!” Well, I don’t know what to tell you other than that
cheap imported starter that you found in a mail order catalog is junk and the
money you spent on it is probably in Bin Laden’s hands right now.
It’s creepy. An example of this is whenever I rebuild a motor I always use
the best “Made In America” parts. However, recently I happened to notice
that the “Made in U.S.A.” high quality, high dollar pistons I am accustomed
to using are using Taiwan wrist pins. Says so right on the package. Now I
am questioning who owns the U.S. companies. Just because companies
have a U.S. name does not mean it is owned by someone in the U.S. Also
the high dollar U.S. ignitions I use now come with a sticker that says “Made
in China.” Where & WHEN will it end.
Ride safe. Questions? Comments? Steve Taylor of Taylor Made V-Twins,
can be reached at: [email protected].
Don’t be fooled. Remember the Orange County Choppers P.O.W. bike? On
the surface it would seem that it was a tribute to all the lost brothers of war.
When the war veterans started to cry at the end when they were presented
with the bike do you think they noticed that the motor was “Made In Korea?”
Probably not, but true. It’s everywhere around us, just read the labels. From
automobiles, clothing, furniture, tools, and yes, even “Genuine” parts for your
Harley they are being imported from another country. It saddens me to think of
all the friends and families who lost loved ones in the war(s), and here we are
giving money to support the countries that we were at war with while companies
are closing everyday here in our country. I look at it as an “epidemic.” Our
country is being invaded and we don’t even know it.
So you’re patriotic are you? Well, let’s see. Do you have an American
flag? Where was it made? Your car? Clothes? Shoes? Do you shop from
motorcycle parts catalogs? The Internet maybe? What do you think you are
buying anyway? Don’t be fooled, for you are only fooling yourself if you think
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 11
ABATE OF MICHIGAN
For those of you following this series, last month I gave an introduction into
ABATE.
This month I will give you our mission statement and then go into some more
details
about what it is that we do for motorcyclists.
Let me start with our official Mission Statement:
What is ABATE?
1. ABATE (American Bikers Aiming Towards Education) of Michigan, Inc., is
a nonprofit, grass-roots organization dedicated to preserving the rights and
promoting the safe operating practices of Michigan motorcyclists.
2. ABATE of Michigan is a freedom of choice organization; believing that the
rider is best able to decide the type of motorcycle to ride and the type and
extent of safety gear to be worn. We believe that adult riders should have the
freedom to choose whether or not to use helmets as part of a comprehensive
motorcycle safety program.
3. ABATE of Michigan is comprised of motorcyclists, from all walks of life,
coming together to work for realistic legislation; to insure safety and freedom
of our public roads; to promote motorcycle awareness to the general public;
to promote motorcycling in general; and to insure that motorcycles are here to
stay as an alternate mode of transportation.
4. ABATE of Michigan enables you to become educated both politically and
in safe riding practices. Through public forums, writing letters, and meeting
elected officials, ABATE of Michigan members have the opportunity to
speak their side of the issues and educate others on the needs of Michigan
motorcyclists.
5. ABATE of Michigan is open to everyone 18 years of age or older having
an interest in motorcycling and sharing our goals. Owning a motorcycle is not
necessary.
Wow, sounds like a corporate charter, doesn’t it? Let’s go through each point
and see what it means for you.
1. Non-profit, grass-roots: this means that we are not out to make money, nor
are we owned by anybody. What does that mean to you and me? Simple:
that means we are motorcyclists, working for motorcyclists. Period. No
hidden agendas. We are not out to make a buck. This also means that we are
passionate about what we do.
2. Freedom of choice: this means that we feel motorcyclists themselves are
the best people to determine how motorcyclists live. We don’t think that nonriders are in a position to dictate our lives. This does not mean by any stretch
of the imagination that we are against any kind of safety equipment. We do
feel though that safety equipment can’t replace safer driving and safer riding.
After all, doesn’t it make sense to prevent an accident in the first place, rather
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 12
than impose safety gear on riders in order to make the crash safer?
Here’s another analogy: if you had a leak in the roof, you wouldn’t solve it by
putting a bucket under it, right ? (At least not as a long-term solution). You’d fix
the roof. Mandating helmets is just like putting a bucket under the drip, instead
of fixing the leak properly.
3. Motorcyclists from all walks of life: we probably don’t have any candlestick
makers, but I am sure we have butchers, bakers, barbers, bankers, and every
other profession from A to Z. We don’t care what you do for a living. We respect
everyone for what they do.
We also don’t care about your political affiliation. All of our legislation is
bi-partisan. To demonstrate this fact: our last bill was approved equally by
Democrats and Republicans. We do though care that you vote, regardless of
whom you vote for.
We don’t care what you ride. This is a very important issue. Many think that
we are comprised solely of Harley riders. Not true. We may not have people
with Aprilias and Zundapps (A to Z, get it?), but I know we have the rest of the
alphabet covered as we have many people with BMW’s and Yamahas and
everything in between. We even have a diesel bike in the organization.
True, we are mostly road riders, but we would certainly like to get more off-road
riders into the organization.
We are all in this together. We work together as a close-knit organization.
We don’t even care if you ride. Some of our best volunteers do not even have
bikes. What we do share is our passion.
ABATE is well represented throughout Michigan (and indeed throughout many
states in the USA). There is a region close to you; log onto the Website below
to find out the one nearest to you.
That’s it for this month. Next month I will finish up on our Mission Statement
and then go into more detail about some of our events. You may have gotten
the impression that we are all work and no play, which is wrong. We do take
motorcycling, motorcycle safety, and motorcycle rights seriously, but we also
know how to have some fun.
If you want to get in touch with us, there are several ways:
1. Call the state office at 248 685-9150
2. Log on to our Website: www.abateofmichigan.org
3. Visit a local ABATE meeting (log onto the Website for the nearest location)
4. Join us at our annual State Seminar: January 12 - 14, 2007 at the Best
Western in Saginaw
Vince Piacenti
ABATE of Michigan
Board of Directors
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 13
A guy is driving around the back woods of Kentucky and he sees a sign in front
of a broken down shanty-style house: “Talking Dog For Sale.” He rings the bell
and the owner appears and tells him the dog is in the backyard. The guy goes
into the backyard and sees a nice looking Chocolate Lab sitting there. “You talk?”
he asks. “Yep,” the Lab replies. After the guy recovers from the total shock of
hearing a dog talk, he says, “So, what’s your story? “The Lab looks up and says,
“Well, I discovered that I could talk when I was pretty young. I wanted to help the
government, so I told the CIA. In no time at all they had me jetting from country
to country, sitting in rooms with spies and world leaders, because no one figured
a dog would be eavesdropping. I was one of their most valuable spies for eight
years running.” “But the jetting around really tired me out, and I knew I wasn’t
getting any younger so I decided to settle down. I signed up for a job at the
airport to do some undercover security, wandering near suspicious characters
and listening in.” ”I uncovered some incredible dealings and was awarded a batch
of medals. Then I met this gorgeous Golden Retriever, got married, had a mess of
puppies, and now I’m just retired.” The guy is amazed. He goes back in and asks
the owner what he wants for the dog. “Ten dollars,” the guy says. “Ten dollars?
This dog is amazing! Why on earth are you selling him so cheap?” “Because he’s
a dang liar. He aint never done any of that there stuff. “
A man was in his front yard mowing grass when his attractive blonde female
neighbor came out of the house and went straight to the mailbox. She opened
it then slammed it shut & stormed back in the house. A little later she came out
of her house again went to the mail box and again, opened it, slammed it shut
again. Angrily, back into the house she went. As the man was getting ready to
edge the lawn, here she came out again, marched to the mailbox, opened it and
then slammed it closed harder than ever. Puzzled by her actions the man asked
her, “Is something wrong?” To which she replied, “There certainly is! ”My stupid
computer keeps saying, “YOU’VE GOT MAIL.”
FIVE TIPS FOR A WOMAN....
1. It is important that a man helps you around the house and has a job.
2. It is important that a man makes you laugh.
3. It is important to find a man you can count on and doesn’t lie to you.
4. It is important that a man loves you and spoils you.
5. It is MOST important that these four men don’t know each other.
How Do Crazy People Go Through The Forest?
They Take The Psycho Path.
How Do You Get Holy Water?
You Boil The Hell Out Of It.
What Do Eskimos Get From Sitting On The Ice too Long?
Polaroids.
What Do You Call A Boomerang That Doesn’t Work?
A Stick.
What Do You Call Cheese That Isn’t Yours?
Nacho Cheese.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 14
What’s The Difference Between Roast Beef And Pea Soup?
Anyone Can Roast Beef.
Where Do You Find a Cat With No Legs?
Exactly Where You Left Him.
Why Do Gorillas Have Big Nostrils?
Because They Have Big Fingers.
Why Did Pilgrims’ Pants Always Fall Down?
Because They Wore Their Belt Buckle On Their Hat.
How Are a Texas Tornado And a Kentucky Divorce The Same?
Somebody’s Gonna’ Lose A Trailer
From the comical genius that is George Carlin:
Stop giving me that pop-up ad for classmates.com! There’s a reason you
don’t talk to people for 25 years. It’s because you don’t particularly like
them! Besides, I already know what the captain of the football team is
doing these days.............he’s mowing my lawn.
The plane is on its way to Houston when a blonde in economy class gets
and moves to the first class section and sits down. The flight attendant
watches her do this and asks to see her ticket. She then tells the blonde
that she paid for economy class and that she will have to sit in the back.
The blonde replies, “I’m blond, I’m beautiful, I’m going to Houston and I’m
staying right here.” The flight attendant goes into the cockpit and tells the
pilot and the co-pilot that there is a blonde sitting in first class that belongs
in economy and won’t move back to her seat. The co-pilot goes back to the
blonde and tries to explain that because she only paid for economy she
will have to leave and return to her seat. The blonde replies, “I’m blonde,
I’m beautiful, I’m going to Houston and I’m staying right here. The co-pilot
tells the pilot that he probably should have the police waiting when they
land to arrest this blonde woman who won’t listen to reason. The pilot
says, “you say she is a blonde? I’ll handle this. I’m married to a blonde. I
speak blonde fluently.” he goes back to the blonde and whispers in her ear,
and she says, oh, I’m sorry.” and she gets up and goes back to her seat
in economy. The flight attendant and co-pilot are amazed and asked him
what he said to make her move without any fuss. I simply told her, “first
class isn’t going to Houston.”
Bob Gabbard hails from Troy, MI and has a very unique
motorcycle. I had the opportunity to see it first hand and
up close this past summer at the Mini Sturgis Bike Rally at
the Great American Chopper sponsored event. What really
grabs you is the paint job. It has to be seen up close and
personal to really appreciate this masterful piece of art work
that was painted by Steve Fairman of Argentine, MI. I won’t
go into a lot of detail; let’s just say that it involves beautiful
naked women deep in a translucent paint that can only be
seen when you look closely into the paint job. You have to
see it to appreciate it fully. Bob has put a lot of time and
money into his bike and it really shows, from the custom
leather work to the Nitrous assisted engine to the great use of
chrome accessories. It was sitting in the service bay at GAC
getting another shot of power just last month. Bob is having
them increase it from a 95 CI displacement to a whopping
124 inches. Bob loves to just ride his bike and loves to talk
to other bikers wherever he goes. If you happen to see Bob
out and about, remember to say HI and then take the time to
really look close at his paint job. Really close.
Year:
2000
Make/Model
Harley-Davidson Fatboy
Engine:
95 ci 140 HP w/nitrous
Modifications: 18” Wheels, Custom Tank and Fenders,
Six Speed Baker Trans, Edelbrock
Heads, JE Pistons, Crane Hi-Roller
Cams, Lots of Chrome, Custom
Engraved Leather Seat, Custom Paint
by Steve Fairman
The minister asked his congregation if anyone had been married for fifty
years. Ralph stood up. “I’ll celebrate my 50th wedding anniversary this
summer,” he announced. After a round of applause, the minister asked
Ralph to share some insight into successful married life. Ralph replied,
“Well, I treated her with respect, spent money on her, and took her traveling
on special occasions.” The minister asked, “Like where, Ralph?” “Well, for
our 25th anniversary, I took her to Beijing,” responded Ralph. The minister
responded enthusiastically, “What a terrific example you are, Ralph. And
what do you have planned for your 50th anniversary?” “I’m going back to
Beijing to get her!”
The Joker’s Wild
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 15
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 16
12
19
26
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Giant MC Swap Meet
Detroit
West MI MC & ORV Show
Grand Rapids
5
4
SUNDAY
MONDAY
27
20
13
6
TUESDAY
28
21
14
7
WEDNESDAY
22
15
8
1
THURSDAY
19
26
18
25
27
20
13
6
5
12
4
11
7
28
21
14
8
29
22
15
9
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T
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W
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M
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1
F
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APRIL 2007
W
S
T
M
march 2007
27
20
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6
F
S
7
28
21
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West MI MC & ORV Show
Grand Rapids
24
ABATE Region 19
Virtual Reality Tour
Waterford
17
10
3
SATURDAY
S
23
16
9
2
FRIDAY
Where There’s Bikes... There’s Going to be Thunder
FEBRUARY2007
Meet Kelly who resides in Midland, MI. When not working
hard at Accounting, she can be found with the wind blowing
in her face. She has had riding as a hobby since she was a
small child. In the summer of 2005, she had a collision with a
deer that should have been fatal, but walked away with only
a scratch. She accounts many years of dirt bike riding for
her skills. Chrome being her favorite color, you will often find
her dedicated in keeping her bike in pristine condition. She
loves to ride regardless of weather and to help new riders
develop the confidence needed to ride safely. To do this
she organizes and leads all of the Timberwolf Cycle Ladies
rides. These rides are designed to bring women together for
fellowship and to teach the less experienced, group riding
skills in a relaxed setting. The run is paced at the speed
of the slowest rider. She also belongs to The Tri-County
HOG, Shiawassee HOG, and ABATE. She has attended
many events such as Daytona Biketoberfest, Myrtle Beach
Rallies, Sturgis and Ionia HOG Rendezvous. In January, she
became a Road Captain for the Tri-County HOG Chapter.
Year:
1997
Make/Model:
Harley-Davidson Heritage
Springer Softail
Engine:
1340 cc
Modifications: Stage Two SE Performance Kit,
Thunder Jet Slide Kit, Screaming
Eagle Pipes, Lowered 31/2 Inches,
Heated Grips
The Female
T
Perspective
Perspect
by Chris Friske
H
ey Ladies, before you read this please keep in mind that I am writing
this from my own opinion. I am simply giving you some things to think about.
The subject is helmets, what should we wear?
To begin with I think the helmet law should be repealed. I believe that we
should have the right to choose whether or not we want to wear a helmet. I
feel that for women in particular a helmet can be dangerous. My reasoning
for this is because a DOT (Department Of Transportation) approved helmet,
which is the standard by which a helmet is considered legal is typically large,
heavy and sits high on your head. For women, whose necks are usually not
as strong as a man’s I feel this creates a very dangerous situation. Having
the heavy, bulky helmet on creates a greater chance of whiplash or a broken
neck in a low impact accident, which would usually cause only minor injuries.
If you are in a major accident, I feel that the helmet will do little to protect
your brain, which is what the biggest issue seems to always be. A helmet
may protect you from a skull fracture but I feel the size and weight of the
helmet will cause your head to become a projectile, which can cause neck
and back injuries.
Since we live in a state where we are required to wear a helmet, here are
some tips on choosing one. If you opt for a Full Face helmet, they will protect
your face better than other helmets, however, they can impair your vision
unless you choose one with a wide viewing shield. A nice option available
in a Full Face helmet is a one-handed chin release. This is nice because
you can use one hand to press the release button and raise the chin guard.
Another helmet option is a Shorty or 3/4 helmet. These open your viewing
area as well as keeping your ears uncovered which allows for better hearing.
These are available with air vents on the top. This will allow your head to
stay cooler while you ride. Helmets with snaps on the front are nice as you
have the option of attaching a sun visor or face shield, which can be flipped
up if you want to talk to people. Some helmets offer features such as wicking
material on the inside to pull moisture away from your head. Removable
neck curtains are also available. These are a padded add on that is zipped
around the bottom of the helmet. The neck curtains give you added warmth
while zipped onto the helmet making it more versatile. Whatever style you
choose, a helmet that is too big will catch air under the front edge and will
cause the helmet to pull up on you. The best fit is when the helmet is on and
buckled, you should not be able to move it on your head. A helmet should fit
a little snug as it will break in and conform to the shape of your head. A quick
release buckle is a great add on for a helmet as it is simply attached to your
straps and it works in a way that keeps you from having to use the D Rings.
D Rings are a pain if you have long nails or are wearing gloves.
Now that I have shared my ideas with you, I want to state that the opinions
that I wrote in this article are my own and don’t necessarily reflect those of
Thunder Roads Magazine.
Keep the wind in your face!
Chris
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 18
Nature Calls
Part 1
By Janea Little
If you are like my Dad, you have nothing kind to say about members of
the invertebrate world when removing their carcasses from your vehicle
(no matter the number of wheels). As a nature lover with a special affinity
for bugs, though, cleaning my bike is like walking through a war zone. Are
those blue specks scales from the wings of a spicebush swallowtail, the
green goo with metallic edges a tiger beetle, and the delicate, see-through
wing that of a damselfly? I admit, though, even Nature Girl here doesn’t
mind the red splats representing the death of a well-fed mosquito or deer
fly.
But, since there’s no avoiding them, we might as well learn to appreciate
insects. After all, we’d be dead without them. Sure, the media likes to scare
us with stories about insects that kill and maim us, but out of the literally
millions of insect species on the planet, only a few dozen do us (or our
bikes) direct harm, and a few dozen more eat our crops. The remaining
999,936 (or thereabouts) are very busy pollinating our fruits, nuts, clovers,
vegetables and cotton fields, feeding the fish we like to eat and the birds we
like to watch, producing honey and silk, eating road kill as fast as we can
produce it, and parasitizing not only some of the things we love (what is a
dog without fleas?) but many of the things we hate (parasitic wasps save
the day). Besides, you have to respect an animal that can lift 50 times its
body weight (and that’s welterweight – beetles can lift up to 800 times their
body weight) and click along at over 300 times the length of its body each
and every second (compared to a fast man who runs only five body lengths
per second). If you have ever set foot in an airplane, you can appreciate
the angle of the approach and landing, a gradual process required to get on
and off the ground. In contrast, insects catapult straight into flight, reaching
top speed within a second, and crash-land with a g-force approaching 40,
all without their innards being pureed against their exoskeleton!
So, maybe it’s hard to relate to an animal with its support structure on the
outside rather than on the inside, like ours. The exoskeleton is made up
in part of chitin, the same as our fingernails. On top of the chitin is an even
stronger layer of protein called sclerotin. It has a waxed top, and in the
really hard-bodied insects, a layer of cement-like material on top of that.
The resulting structure, as you may sadly know, can chip paint off the best
bike when the mighty meets the sprightly at 60 miles per hour.
If you want to learn more about the bits of insects on your vehicle, I
recommend That Gunk on Your Car: A Unique Guide to Insects of North
America, by Mark Hostetler. It comes complete with color illustrations of
“before and after” vehicular encounters. The best overall read on insects,
with an obviously twisted theme, is Six-legged Sex: The Erotic Lives of
Bugs, by James K. Wangberg. Both are compact enough to fit into even the
smallest side cases, and will give you a different perspective the next time
you suffer a loss of visibility after riding through a swarm of mayflies.
Janea Little is an avid motorcyclist and “professional naturalist from
Midland”
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 19
TWO-UP RIDING...................
......................DONE SAFELY
By Joe Brinn
As we see more and more bikes on the road, we see more
passengers or two-up riding as it can be called on the roadway as
well. Although many bikes are not really made for a passenger,
or least not for the passenger to be comfortable, thousands of
bikes sport passengers every day. Whether it is a poker run,
a run across town, or just out for a ride, two up riding is more
prevalent today than the lone rider by himself. Most passengers
are generally adults and can be any gender, but many of us also
include our children as our back seat passenger. Regardless
who is riding shotgun, there are a lot of things to consider no
matter who is occupying the seat behind you.
As the rider, you have to understand that the passenger is
putting their entire trust in not only your riding abilities but in your
decision making capabilities as well. When riding the open road
with a passenger, there are now two lives at stake that the rider
must be cognizant of when making a decision on how to handle
both road and traffic conditions. This is true regardless of your
experience level, because even the most experienced rider must
understand that there is more to riding with a passenger than
by riding alone. Not just the safety factors associated with two
people on a motorcycle, but also the comfort and convenience
factors that both of you should be aware of so that each of you
will be able to enjoy the riding experience. This is extremely
important information to pass on if the passenger is a novice and
has never been a passenger before but it is especially important
for children.
Riders.............
‰ Adjust you rear shocks for the extra weight. ( Refer to your
owners manual)
‰ Make sure your passenger is properly attired for the ride.
And don’t forget emergency clothing such as rain suits for
those possible unexpected weather changes during your ride.
‰
A decent fitting helmet that meets all Michigan State
requirements is a must.
‰ Educate them a little bit about your bike and what to expect:
what’s hot so they don’t get burned, where to hold on to when
getting on the bike, how to mount and un-mount the bike,
where to place their feet when mounting and riding.
‰
Discuss with them before they get on your bike, how or
where they will hold on during the ride? Will they wrap their
arms around your waist or do you have grab rails?
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 20
‰ Advise them to not put their feet on the ground when you
come to a stop, or to grab your shoulder or arms while riding.
That they need to just relax while riding with you especially
during cornering and to not lean against the turn, which is their
typical impulse. To remain centered behind you at all times.
And most definitely not to stand or try to stand up on their feet
even with their feet on foot pegs, while riding.
‰ Discuss how you will communicate with one another during
the ride, whether it is tapping you on the shoulder to indicate
what they need to do or when they need to stop or how to use
your bike helmet intercom system if one is installed.
‰ Remember that the extra weight of a passenger can affect
the performance and handling characteristics of you bike. It
may take more distance to complete a stop, especially an
emergency stop, so be aware of that distance while riding. Your
bike may handle more sluggishly during take offs and during
turns. Remember that the extra weight can shift while actually
in a turn, making hard curves much more of a challenge to
perform.
‰ Make more stops than you would normally do by yourself to
make sure your passenger is not stressed or uncomfortable.
They may need a break more often especially if they are new
to being a passenger.
‰ Many passengers ultimately become riders later. How well
they experience the ride with you could ultimately determine
whether or not they actually get their own bike. And nothing
kills the desire to get their own bike than a bad experience on
the back seat of someone else’s bike.
‰ Don’t’ show off. Excessive speed, quick take offs and erratic
bike maneuvers will only dampen the experience of your
passenger, not heighten it. If you really want to impress them,
get them to their destination safely.
‰ Remember that all of these changes can be challenging but
will become second nature if you apply yourself to learning the
tips to successful Two Up Riding. Always be cognizant of the
fact that you now have two lives that you are responsible for,
yours and theirs. If they feel uncomfortable riding with you for
some reason, you will also feel uncomfortable with the ride.
Making sure they feel comfortable from the very beginning will
ultimately ensure that both of you will be ready to jump at the
next chance to ride double again in the future.
Passengers....
‰ Make sure you feel comfortable with the person you will be
riding with. How well do you trust them? Remember that they
have your life in their hands. Don’t be ashamed to ask them
how long they have been riding or have they ever ridden with
a passenger before. Don’t be afraid to say NO if you do feel
very uncomfortable with the person you are going to ride with
no matter how well you might know them.
‰
Proper attire is a must. A proper fitting helmet, leather
gloves, leather boots, sun glasses or goggles, and proper
fitting clothes will make sure that your ride is not only safe, but
comfortable as well. Nothing like getting on the open road and
then realizing that the wind is driving through the nylon jacket
that you thought would provide plenty protection from the cold
wind, didn’t seem that cold before you began riding did it?
‰ Remember if it is going to be a long ride, that the weather
can and probably will change during your ride, it is Michigan
by the way. So remember to bring extra clothing in case the
temperature drops or a rain suit in case it rains.
‰
It is not uncommon for the bike to scrap the pavement,
especially during curves. This is common, especially for the
larger bike such as dressers and cruisers. The extra load along
with the low center of gravity can cause certain bike parts to
come in contact with the road during maneuvers.
‰ Never put your feet on the ground when the bike comes to
a stop. Keep you balance and sit still while the bike in not in
motion. Shifting your weight while sitting at stop signs or road
intersections can cause the bike to become unbalanced and
hard for the rider to hold upright. Never attempt to stand up
while riding.
‰ Don’t be afraid to let your rider know if you are uncomfortable
during the ride, whether it is seat adjustment, length of ride,
or riding conditions or the rider’s abilities or inabilities. Did
they scare you or frighten you with a maneuver that you
felt was unnecessary? Were they driving too fast for road
conditions? Discuss the issues with the rider so that the two of
you can come to a reasonable solution. Nothing dampens your
experience more than being uncomfortable with the ride or the
rider, especially on a long ride.
‰ Now that you are on the ride, relax and enjoy the ride. Look
around you, see the sights and enjoy yourself. But remember
that you can still be an extra set of eyes to look out for possible
danger spots. Let your rider know if you see something and
suspect that he/she may not see it.
Regardless of who you are riding with or who your passenger is,
the experience that the two of you have together will determine
ultimately how each of you accept future rides as a team or
with riding with another biker. Don’t make this a ride that they
will never forget, make it a ride that both of your will remember
favorably and safely.
Nature Calls
Part 2
By Janea Little
As a professional naturalist, I have long had an affinity for “bugs,” but
riding has put them “in my face,” literally. The surreal approach of a June
beetle’s erratic flight before it BANG! ricochets off my helmet, the loss of
vision when riding through a mating swarm of a hundred gazillion mayflies,
and of course, tales of terror from other bikers about the biggest, baddest
bumblebee of all time trapped under their helmet, are close encounters with
nature I’d rather avoid.
The beetle most often struck, or at least still identifiable afterwards, seems
to be the June beetle. These night fliers are fatally attracted to artificial
lights, including headlights. Before becoming motorcycle fodder, they spend
their youth as fat, white grubs eating roots in our lawns. Those that don’t get
dug up and eaten by skunks will grow up to mate and then die at either our
porch lights or on our headlight covers.
Despite the scrapes and bruises your bike can suffer from hitting June
beetles, be glad that some seriously well-defended species are not keen on
flying, but spend their lives on the ground. The oil, blister and bombardier
beetles take chemical defense a little far, producing acid-like materials that
either ooze out of joints (oil and blister beetles), or shoot explosively out
the anal opening (ouch! bombardier beetle). If these guys came into violent
contact with even the best paint job, the paint would lose!
An insect that is unlikely to damage your bike, but is still no fun to encounter,
is the Mayfly. Their mating system is simple -- males by the thousands (or
literally, millions) gather to “dance” in a swarm over water. Their moves
aren’t fancy, just up and down, up and down, until a girl shows up. The
first one who recognizes her for what she is whisks her away and mates,
IMMEDIATELY. (There’s no point in foreplay or commitment ceremonies
when you have only 24 hours to live.) A serious note of caution here –
mayflies are sometimes present in such numbers that the road becomes
slick with their carcasses, so take care!
While we’re on the subject of insects to avoid, bees, hornets and wasps
are high on the list. Despite the negative press this group receives, it is
by far the most beneficial of all the insects. The pollination, scavenging
and parasitizing services they provide are worth literally billions in the
agricultural and forestry industries. I suppose that’s hard to keep in mind
when a bee is under your helmet, stinging any piece of bare skin it can find.
Another fact lost amidst the pain is that only wasps and hornets can sting
repeatedly – bees die when they sting, as their abdomen comes out along
with the stinger.
Don’t let thoughts of these negative encounters keep you off the road this
summer, but take along an ice pack and a package of Benedryl, just in
case!
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 21
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THE GROUND WILL RUMBLE WITH
THE ROAR OF V8 ENGINES AT
DAYTONA BIKE WEEK
3RD Annual V8 Motorcycle Run Hosted by Boss Hoss Factory,
Boss Hoss Riders Association, Mid-Atlantic Chapter and
www.V8BikeRiders.com
DAYTONA BEACH, FL (March 9, 2007) – On Friday, March 9, Daytona Beach Bike Week
riders will be wrestled out of their bike seats when a rumbling commotion moves through
Main Street. The third annual V8 Motorcycle Run will depart Main Street’s eastern most
point at the Atlantic Ocean, heading west toward town at precisely 2 p.m. Participants of
the 35-mile run, touted “The Loop” by the Daytona Chamber of Commerce, will enjoy the
scenic route, as well as the many faces of jealous riders wishing they owned a V8 bike!
Boss Hoss Factory, the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the Boss Hoss Riders Association
(BHRA) and www.V8BikeRiders.com are organizing the event, drawing approximately
75 riders, and many more onlookers. Cycle enthusiasts will see the most exquisite paint
jobs, add-ons, customizations and more as the parade of Boss Hoss’ and other V8 bikes
ride through town. “We’ve had tremendous success the past two years and believe this
year’s attendance will be even stronger, as riders have come to expect the run,” says
Bill Taylor, president of the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the BHRA and vice president of the
National BHRA. “Due to past enthusiasm, we’re making the run longer this year, in hopes
of attracting all V8 owners, as everyone is welcome to par-take in this great event.”
“Our presence at Daytona will certainly be felt this year,” comments Rad Hunsley, COO,
Boss Hoss Cycles. “In addition to the V8 run, we’ll also have three dealers competing in
The Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show V8 biker build off, and we’re bringing our new model,
the Super Sport, to Daytona Bike Week for the first time ever.”
All V-8 bike and trike owners are invited to participate in the parade. Staging of the run
begins on Main Street at the Atlantic Ocean at 1 p.m. Early organization will help keep
the start time at precisely 2 p.m. From there, the parade will wind its way through the
streets of Daytona.
As bike enthusiasts converge on Main Street for this event, Boss Hoss Cycles will give
patrons the opportunity to win a 2007, small block ’57 Chevy Trike with a custom ’57
Chevy themed paint job. For a suggested $10 donation, tickets will be available at the
factory spot, dealer locations, and online at www.bosshoss.com. The drawing will take
place at the 8th Annual Boss Hoss National Rally and Mid-South Motorcycle Festival,
September 27-29, 2007 in Dyersburg, TN. Proceeds will go to Shriner’s Hospitals for
Children, so stop by to help the Shriners and the chance to win a Boss Hoss!
Boss Hoss Cycles, manufacturer of America’s ultimate V8 powered cycles, will display
their new, 2007 line of bikes and trikes at Daytona Bike Week in Daytona Beach, FL,
March 2nd through 10th, 2007, at the Daytona International Speedway, outside the fourth
turn at “Fan Walk.”
For those intrigued enough to try the only V8 production bike on the market, Boss Hoss
has set up their Big Red Rig outside the fourth turn of the International Speedway for
demo rides. Qualified riders, who are 30 years of age or over, will have the chance to
feel the rush of excitement as they enter a whole new realm of bike riding. We’re not
talking about dad’s old bike either; we’re talking about power and craftsmanship that far
surpasses the most sense-defying ride available on two wheels.
For more information on Boss Hoss Cycles or the V-8 run, visit www.bosshoss.com or
call 731/286-4915.
Boss Hoss bikes and trikes are available for private media tests, to be arranged through
DCA/DCPR prior to the event. Please contact:
Michelle Nisenboim, [email protected], 847/452-2723
Or call DCA/DCPR at 312/850-4273
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 22
DAYTONA BEACH, FL (March 9, 2007)
January 3, 2007 Victory Press Release
Medina, MN - ‘With the release of this information from J.D. Power and Associates,
we believe it’s clear that Victory Motorcycles has played a key role in raising the bar of
consumer expectations – not only in the American V-Twin market, but in the motorcycle
industry as a whole,’ said Mark Blackwell, Vice President of Victory Motorcycles and
International Operations for Polaris Industries.
A Custom X-mas Giveaway
by Joe Brinn
For the first time ever, J.D. Power and Associates has publicly released brandperformance results from their annual Motorcycle Competitive Information Study. Over
the past several years, the firm has conducted this research to help the industry’s major
motorcycle manufacturers improve. Now, portions of their recent 2006 study have been
made public for all the world to see.
Now entering just its ninth model year and growing at close to 10 times the industry
rate, Victory Motorcycles, the motorcycle division of leading Minnesota-based power
sports manufacturer Polaris Industries, was one of ten major motorcycle manufacturers
(and one of just three American manufacturers) rated by consumers in this study. Each
manufacturer received two to five Power Circle RatingsSM in five different factors,
including Product, Service, Cost of Ownership, Quality, and Sales.
Victory Motorcycles performed particularly well and received five Power Circles in Product,
Cost of Ownership, and Service. Victory received four Power Circles in Quality and Sales.
“The entire Victory team is proud to have these kinds of ratings,” said Blackwell. ‘People
who choose to ride our bikes love them - it’s something we’ve known for a long time – and
we’re happy this information is finally public.’
The breakdown of Victory’s 2006 Power CircleSM ratings are as follows:
Victory Product Performance: 5 out of 5 Power Circles
This score is based on customer satisfaction with the motorcycle’s five product /
performance sub-measures: comfort and convenience; cockpit and controls; looks
and styling; engine and transmission; and ride and handling. ‘Voice of the customer
is something that everyone at Victory lives and breathes,’ explained Victory Marketing
Manager Derek Scott. ‘More and more, consumers are wanting an American heavyweight
cruiser that is more modern in design and function so as a result, we choose to respect
the past without living in it and we’re proud that an American company can provide this.’
Added Blackwell, ‘And our test ride program is something that has really helped open
people’s eyes – one test ride on a Victory at a dealer or at an event is usually all it
takes.’
Victory Service Experience: 5 Power Circles
This score is based on how customers rate various aspects of their motorcycle service
experience in regard to service department accessibility, service personnel, service
delivery and quality of work performed. ‘We currently have about 360 dealers across North
America and this number continues to grow each month – both here and internationally,’
said Blackwell. ‘There is no question our dealers are as passionate about the ride and the
product as we are – and this rating reflects that fact.’
Victory Cost of Ownership: 5 Power Circles
This score is based on how customers rate various aspects of the cost of owning their
motorcycle, including the initial price of the motorcycle; cost of insurance; maintenance
and repair costs, including parts; and cost of accessories (i.e. pipes, saddle bags, etc.).
Victory Quality: 4 Power Circles
This score is based on the number of problems that customers report experiencing
with their new motorcycle. A higher number of Power Circles indicates a higher level of
quality (i.e., fewer problems experienced). ‘High quality motorcycles are alive and well
in America,’ said Scott. ‘The fact that Victory performs well in this area demonstrates the
dedication of the team that builds our bikes at our Spirit Lake, Iowa plant.’
Victory Sales Experience: 4 Power Circles
This score is based on how customers rate various aspects of their motorcycle sales
experience in regard to product offering, sales personnel, sales process and delivery.
What better way to get everyone into the Christmas
spirit than by giving away a custom, $25,000
motorcycle. And that is what Hickey’s Black Metal
Choppers in Saginaw decided to do. He took his idea
to Z93 and the Custom X-mas Giveaway promotion
was born. Both companies were hoping to incite
the Spirit of the Holidays with this promotion. It was
decided that to give as many people as possible a
chance at winning the bike, they would tour around
to some of the hottest night spots in the local area
showing off the bike and allowing people to put their
name in the drawing. This was done in conjunction
with spots where radio listeners on air had a chance
to have their name placed in the drawing, and at
remote radio spots conducted at several local
businesses around the area. Most of the nighttime
hot spots spurned quite large crowds, all hoping for
that chance to win the chopper at the final drawing
to be held December 16th, 2006 at Castaways in
Bay City. There were 144 names that qualified for
the final drawing from the bike night promotions,
the radio chance drawings and radio remotes.
The Badlands of Rose City held one of the bike
night drawings. The Crossroads Bar and Grill in
Tawas was the location of another and it just so
happens that I was able to be there in person and
of course was hoping for a chance that my name
would be drawn as well. It was well attended with
a larger than normal crowd on hand. The Z93 crew
and especially Lynn Roberts did an excellent job
of keeping the crowd entertained with games,
obviously adult oriented but very amusing to say the
least, and great music with DJ Joe from Crossroads
getting the crowd hopping on the dance floor. As
the night started to wind down, Brian from Hickey’s
drew out the lucky winner’s name that would then
have a chance at the final drawing at Castaways.
Guess what, it wasn’t my name, but oh well. To
say that the lucky winner was ecstatic was an
understatement.
The crowd at Castaways for the final drawing
was overwhelmingly huge. It was a great turnout
obviously with not only the lucky finalists but their
friends and fans chanting them on, hoping that
they would be the winning name drawn. As usual,
Z93 kept the entire night interesting and everyone
totaled enjoyed the music and the mood. I guess
you could say it was kinda festive, if a bike night
can be festive. Naw, festive doesn’t work either;
it was just downright fun from wall to wall. Music,
dancing, drinks, and lots of friendly people, just
what a bike night should be like.
It was finally time to draw the lucky winner, the final
name of the person who would be the new owner of
a custom bike worth over $25,000, Randomly, each
qualifier would draw a Christmas Stocking with a
piece of paper in it. Each piece of paper had a prize
written on it (some won CDs, others won T-shirts),
but one piece of paper had the word “CHOPPER”
written on it. Whoever drew this particular piece
of paper was the final winner. Each qualifier took
turns drawing stockings with the winner being
Chris Ferris from Saginaw. Chris was all smiles as
he posed with his new bike. Or maybe it was the
Hickey’s Hard Tail girls that made him smile? Either
way, Chris was the proud owner of a new chopper.
It was no doubt a Happy Christmas at the Ferris
household, but I don’t think anyone went away from
these parties unhappy either. A good time was had
by all who attended all of the bike nights especially
the final one at Castaways. Our congrats to Chris
Ferris.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 23
Helmet Hair magazine.com’s
TM
#6. Jayme Gray - Huntington Beach Hogs and Choppers
TOP TEN: Women Bike Builders
You might have seen them on TV or at rallies, or read about them in magazines or online – Women Bike Builders. Through word of mouth and lots of phone
calls and emails, Helmet Hair™ searched many a resource to compile the first-ever list of women who build and wrench for a living. The list order does not
necessarily represent the order of best mechanics or best bike, rather a criteria measured by years of experience and contribution to create awareness about
female motorcycle mechanics.
At the age of 26, Jayme headed to Arizona to attend MMI, where she earned her motorcycle mechanic
degree. After graduation, she went back home to California and had the opportunity to work alongside a
master mechanic giving her the experience necessary for her next job at Huntington Beach Hogs and
Choppers. In 2006, Jayme was invited to participate at the Labor Day Board Fest, where she promoted
women in alternative professions. Jayme was one of five women to participate in the very first all-women
bike build during Fat Fest 2006, hosted by Open Road Radio. Yep, the one that Athena “Chickie” led.
www.hbhogs.com
#7. Katie Putman - Mad Dog
#1. Athena Ransom - Vagabond Choppers
Vagabond bikes have a stellar reputation for “reliability and performance” – a testimonial from the men who
ride them. With the competition so fierce in the custom bike building world, Vagabond Choppers are not
only quickly gaining a lot of respect, but a lot of attention, too. Just might have something to do with the
owner, Athena “Chickie” Ransom, who has won and entered many a bike building competition. Her latest
build was for a Breast Cancer Awareness charity project, which involved four other women - making it the
first all-women bike build in history. Did we mention they built it in less than seven hours?
www.vagabondchopper.com
#2. Christine Vaughn - Wicked Women Choppers
After graduating from the Motorcycle Mechanic Institute (MMI) in 2003, Katie traveled back home to
Wisconsin putting her new wrenching skills at work in a local motorcycle shop. In 2006, she landed a
dream job with Mitch Bergeron of Mad Dogs (one of the winners from the TV series Biker Build-Off), where
she’s been servicing bikes ever since. Katie was also among the historical all-women bike build mentioned
above. http://www.mitchbergeroncustoms.com
#8. Sarah Lyon - Female Mechanic Calendar
photo by Bob Hower
Christine’s unique concept and business savvy catapulted her company, Wicked Women Choppers,
into the national spotlight in 2004, when she became the first “known” custom bike building company for
women. Christine also built the first TV bike as part of the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign, which is
currently traveling the rally circuit. As an official LLC, with real “VIN” titles, these high-end choppers are not
only insurable, but maintain their resale value. Business is expanding for Christine, as WWC now offers six
custom choppers in their line up. For more about WWC’s bikes, go to
www.wickedwomenchoppers.com
It was in 2003, during an 8,900-mile trip alone on her Yamaha, Sarah realized that her bike required a lot of
work along the way. Her experience working as a mechanic in motorcycle shops back home in Kentucky
would prove handy, so with her tools in-tow, bike shop owners across the country lent her space to work.
That’s when her epiphany hit: she’d not encountered one female mechanic in any of these shops. She
wondered how women in the field of mechanics dealt with being an anomaly, as she’d experienced. So
in the summer of 2006, this photographer set out on a 6,000-mile journey through 12 states in search
for subjects to “create empowering documentary portraits” for the first-ever Female Mechanics Calendar.
Sarah’s story traveled through the grapevine, and soon she too was invited to assist with the all-women’s
bike build during Fat Fest 2006. http://www.sarahlyon.com/calendar
#3. Shorty Chilocothe - Shorty’s Inc.
#9. Terri-Lynn Link - Siren Custom Cycles
You may have seen Shorty on U.S. promotional tours with the likes of famous bike builders’ Kendall
Johnson, Nicky Bootz, Dave Perewitz, and Billy Lane. Although maybe mistaken for a pin-up gal, Shorty
can build and fabricate incredible custom choppers from the ground up. Now with almost three years of
running her own bike business, Shorty is rolling out her second line of signature chassis. Her impressive
skills have garnered the attention of multiple motorcycle magazines – Shorty’s latest entry is in the October
2006 American Iron Magazine. See her line of choppers at www.shortyinc.com
Terri-Lynn knew she was on to something big after the success of her fist bike build, Pirates Booty, in 2004.
The ultra-sharp, ultra feminine build was unveiled during Sturgis, and has won major awards around the
country ever since. Hence, the creation of Siren Custom Cycles took fruition, now with a real storefront
and two new concept bikes on their way designed for women. Terri-Lynn is not only the “Head Siren” at the
shop, but also is the brainchild behind these captivating designs. Read more about her story at
www.sirencustomcycles.com
#4. Sara Liberte - North Hills Cycles
Sara lives a double fantasy life: not only does she photograph some of the most famous bike builders in
the business, she also happens to be competing with them. Along with her partner, Ron Tonetti, she is coowner and co-creator of RT’s North Hills Cycle, where they recently completed a build for Pittsburgh Steeler,
Barret Brooks, and entered “The Axe” into the freestyle category at this year’s AMD World Championship
of Custom Bike Building. With dozen’s of feature articles and photo spreads, Sara is quickly becoming a
star in this industry. She’s even written a book, “How to Repair and Maintain American V-Twin Motorcycles,”
and has given seminars to teach others her trade. Visit www.northhillscycle.com to view their work, and
then go to www.saraliberte.com
#5. Vivian Charros - Biker Build-Off Winner
According to their web site, Street Diamond was formed in 2003 to “offer high-end, custom looking
motorcycles for women.” Their site also states that “they are built by women,” so we thought we’d phone
them for an interview, but to no avail. Street Diamond has an impressive line of bikes indeed, but we can’t
confirm that they are actually built by women. To give them the benefit of the doubt; however, we’ve placed
them on the list in hopes that one of our readers can provide a testimony about this company and its bikes.
www.streetdiamond.com
photo by Leetz
Vivian “Gypsy” Charros will go down in history as the first female winner of the Discovery Channel’s Biker
Build-Off —not too shabby considering that was also the first time Biker Build-Off featured a women builder.
Vivian entered the moto scene as a freelance writer for a motorcycle magazine and worked odd jobs as
a bike mechanic in local garages. But it wasn’t until she met Berry Wardlaw of Accurate Engineering, that
she later realized her bike-building dream would become a reality. The master engine builder invited Vivian
to use his shop at her disposal for the TV build, where it was later aired in October 2006 that she and
her team created the winning, one-of-a-kind bike. Look for Gypsy and her stunning bike on a whirlwind
promotional tour.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 24
#10. Street Diamond Motorcycles
Written by: Becky Shimek, Co-Editor/Co-Owner, Helmet HairTM Magazine.com
Thunder Roads of Michigan is looking for a Female Bike Builder in Michigan for a future article.
If you are a female bike builder residing in Michigan,call or email us at
[email protected] or 989-861-0682
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 25
Your Thunder Roads Events Calendar
FEBRUARY
APRIL
February 10, 2007
MI Chapter of the VRCC Winter Gathering
Holiday Inn, Mt. Pleasant, MI
Members and Guests only
989-772-2905
April 1, 2007
Giant Motorcycle Swap Meet
The DeltaPlex, Grand Rapids, MI
800-968-4242
February 17, 2007
ABATE of MI Region 19
Virtual Reality World Tour
Cool Jerks, Waterford, MI
248-683-4776
February 24 – 25, 2007
West Michigan Motorcycle & Orv Show
Devos Place, Grand Rapids, MI
February 25, 2007
Giant Motorcycle Swap Meet
State Fairgrounds, Detroit, MI
Bikes, Parts, Apparel, Etc
800-968-4242
LOOKING AHEAD:
MARCH
March 2 – 11, 2007
Daytona Bike Week - Daytona, FL
March 11, 2007
Giant Motorcycle Swap Meet
Perani Arena, Flint, MI
800-968-4242
March 18, 2007
Motorcycle Swap Meet and Parts Expo
Wing Stadium
Kalamazoo, MI
New & Used parts, leather,
Admission Adults - $8,
children under 12 - $2.
800-800-6034
March 25, 2007
Motorcycle Swap Meet and Parts Expo
Wexford Court Civic Center
Cadillac, MI 49601
New & Used parts, leather, drawing for two new
H-D Motorcycles. Admission Adults - $7,
children under 12 - $2.
800-800-6304
April 15, 2007
Giant Motorcycle Swap Meet
State Fairgrounds, Detroit, MI
800-968-4242
April 15, 2007
ABATE of MI Region 14
To Hell with Taxes Poker Run
Hell, MI - 734-223-8290
April 22, 2007
Giant Motorcycle Swap Meet
Birch Run Expo, Birch Run, MI
800-968-4242
April 27, 2007
Black-n-Blue Ball - MDA Charity Event
Diamond Center, Rock Financial Showplace
Novi, MI - 6:30pm – midnight, $150 a ticket,
sponsorships from $1,500 - $10,000
248-474-0235
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 26
June 14 – 17, 2007
Graff Bike Bash
Vets Park, Bay City, MI
989-684-8410 www.baycitybikebash.com
June 21- 23, 2007
Benny’s Bike Rally
Midland Fairgrounds, Midland, MI
Featuring David Allen Coe & Confederate
Railroad
989-205-1212 www.bennybikerally.com
June 23, 2007
Blessing of the Bikes
Mio Church of God
831 West Miller Road
Mio, MI
www.miochurchofgod.org
June 22 – 24, 2007
AuSable Adventure Rally
Grayling, MI
www.ausableadventurerally.com
MAY
JULY
May 4 – 5, 2007
Davidson Express Spring Bike Show
Downtown Otsego, MI
Eddie Trotta, Jay Springsteen, Jay Allen - Judges
269-694-9579
July 6 – 8, 2007
24th Annual Michigan H.O.G. Rendezvous
Ionia Free Fairgrounds
Ionia, MI
www.mihogrendezvous.com
May 18 - 20, 2007
35th Annual Blessing of the Bikes
Baldwin Airport, Baldwin, MI
Food vendors, camping, other vendors.
800-800-6034
July 8 – 14, 2007
Ogemaw Hills Bike Week
Ogemaw County Fairgrounds
West Branch, MI
www.ogemawhillsbikeweek.com
May 25- 27, 2007
Bubba’s Memorial Weekend Classic
Bubba’s Tri-city Cycle, Linwood, MI
989-697-5525
May 26 - 27, 2007
Yooper Motorcycle Show & Swap Meet
Little Bear East Arena, St. Ignace, MI
906-298-0674
JUNE
March 31- April 1, 2007
Art on the Wheels 07
Treetops Convention Center, Gaylord, MI
989-732-3242
June 8 – 10, 2007
Great Lakes Harley Round-up XXV
Cyclemoore, Interlochen, MI
231-276-9091
June 8 – 9, 2007
Wheels of Thunder 2007
Downtown Jackson, MI - 517-563-8003
REMEMBER TO CALL AHEAD
BEFORE PLANNING TO ATTEND
ANY EVENT AS THE INFORMATION
OR DATES MAY CHANGE.
If you or your organization have an event you’d
like posted in the upcoming events, please
send information to:
[email protected]
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 27
WANT TO GET LISTED? CALL 989-861-0682
Bike Sales & Service
Bubba’s Tri City Cycle
804 S Huron Rd., Linwood, MI. 48634
989-697-5525
www.bubbastricitycycle.com
Burnout Power Sports
8964 S. Clare Ave., Clare, MI. 48617
989-386-5100
www.burnoutpowersports.com
Detroit Boss Hoss Motorcycles
20315 E. 9 Mile Rd.
St. Clair Shores, MI. 48080
586-777-0578
www.detroitbosshoss.com
Shiawassee Harley-Davidson
11901 N. Beyer Rd.
Birch Run, MI. 48415
989-624-4400
www.shiawasseesports.com
Sports Unlimited
3137 US 23 South, Alpena, MI. 49707
989-356-4141
Great Lakes Power Sports
G-4211 Fenton Rd.
Burton, MI. 48529
810-233-7800
www.greatlakespowersports.com
Linwood Cycle Sales
1517 N. Huron St. M-13
Pinconning, MI. 48650
989-697-4425
www.linwoodcyclesales.com
Klimmek Sales & Service
1183 S. Mapes Rd., Mio, MI 48647
989-826-3695
www.klimmeksales.com
NORD-RIDE Motor Sports
7415 Enterprise Parkway (I-75 exit 126)
Mt. Morris MI. 48458
810-564-1929
www.nordride.com
Ray C’s Harley-Davidson / Buell
of Lapeer
1422 Imlay City Rd., Lapeer, MI. 48446
810-664-9261
www.raycsh-d.com
Saginaw Valley Harley-Davidson
3850 S. Huron Rd.
Bay City, MI. 48706
989-686-0400
www.svharleydavidson.com
CASTAWAYS
Tuesday Bike Nights
3940 Boy Scout Rd.
Bay City, MI 48706
989-686-3558
Sweet Trikes
8915 Dixie Hwy.
Fair Haven, MI 48023
586-716-0140
www.sweetrikes.com
D. W. Sportsman’s Brew Pub
4502 N. Huron Rd. M-13
Pinconning, MI. 48650
989-879-6050
Twisted Twin Motorcycle
72447 M 43, South Haven, MI 49090
269-637-3395
www.twistedtwin.com
Iron Horse Bar & Grill
3592 Main St.
Akron, MI. 48701
989-691-5761
Gildner’s Harley-Davidson
2723 S. M 76, West Branch, MI.
48661
989-345-1330
Great American Chopper
1500 N Crooks Rd.
Clawson, MI. 48017
248-435-3300
www.greatamericanchopper.com
Cross Roads Grill & Nightclub
1202 S US 23
Tawas City, MI. 48763
989-362-5946
Bike Parts & Service
Jonesy’s Bar
205 Long Lake Ave
Alpena, MI 49707
989-356-6034
Barts Parts
4394 Lapeer Ave.
Port Huron, MI. 48060
810-985-0998
Rau’s Main Street Grill & Tavern
503 W. Houghton Ave.
West Branch, MI. 48661
989-345-7505
Clor Cycle
125 S. Miller Rd., Saginaw, MI. 48609
989-781-2636
Roadside Inn
2241 N. Huron Rd. M-13
Pinconning, MI. 48650
989-879-1040
Riverside Auto & Motorcycle Parts
& Service
104 N. State St., Oscoda, MI. 48750
989-739-0930
Rolling Thunder Performance
2436 Auburn Rd.
Shelby Township, MI. 48317
586-726-6122
Taylor Made V-Twins
3924 Pinegrove Rd., Fort Gratiot, MI.
810-966-4900
www.taylormadevtwins.net
Timberwolf Cycle
3691 Fashion Square Blvd.
Saginaw, MI. 48603
989-497-8282 (866-497-8282 toll free)
www.timberwolfcycle.com
Bars & Restaurants
AuSable Inn
100 S. State St., Oscoda, MI, 48750
989-747-0350
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 28
The Dry Dock Bar
109 River St.
Alpena, MI 49707
989-356-9117
The Irish Pub
4709 F-41 (The Green Bar)
Oscoda, MI 48750
989-739-5611
Leather & Repair
M C Leather Works
57695 Van Dyke
Washington, MI. 48094
586-786-3050
www.mcleatherworks.com
Paragons Leather
9740 Shaver Road
Portage, MI 49024
800-800-6034
www.paragonsleather.com
Tattoo Studios
Concert Connection
113 River St.
Alpena, MI 49707
989-356-4900
Heritage Tattoo & Body Piercing
602 N Euclid Ave
Bay City, MI. 48706
989-667-0086
Onyx Tattooz
1318 E. US 23
East Tawas, MI. 48730
989-984-0709
Miscellaneous
Fastrac
558 South Lapeer Rd.
Oxford, MI 48371
www.fastrac-usa.com
Hartman Roofing & Maintenance
6408 Cedar Street
Oscoda, MI 48750
989-739-7923
Iosco County\ News-Herald\
Oscoda Press
Debbie Coates Sales Representative
Oscoda 989-739-2054
Tawas 989-362-3456
[email protected]
Kenneth Kutschman Builder
Vinyl Siding & Windows
6646 Cedar Lake Rd.
Oscoda, MI. 48750
989-739-4365
Whispers
Adult Novelties
111 River St.
Alpena, MI. 49707
989-356-4900
HUGS & SMOOCHES H.O.G. RALLY
PARMESAN-BAKED SALMON
1/4 Cup Kraft Real Mayonnaise
2 Tbsp. 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/8 tsp. Ground Red Pepper (cayenne)
4 Salmon Fillets (1 lb. ea.) Skin removed
2 tsp. Lemon Juice
10 Ritz Crackers, crushed (1/2 cup crumbs)
Preheat oven to 400 F. Mix mayo, cheese & pepper until well blended;
set aside. Place salmon on foil-lined shallow baking pan. Drizzle evenly
with lemon juice. Top with cheese mixture; spread to evenly cover salmon.
Sprinkle with cracker crumbs. Bake 12 to 15 min. or until salmon flakes
easily with fork. Yummy!
* You know any fish is done when it turns opaque & flakes easily with a fork.
LITTLE “PAT ON THE BUTT” TRIUMPH THUNDER
BIKE RALLY FETTUCCINE CACCIATORE
8 oz. Fettuccine, Uncooked
2 tsp. Oil
1 lb. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Cut Into Bite-Size Pieces
1 Cup Each Green Pepper Strips & Sliced Shrooms
1 Can Diced Tomatoes, undrained
1/4 Cup Zesty Italian Dressing
1/2 Cup Shredded Italian Mozzarella/Parmesan Cheese Blend
Cook pasta as directed. Meanwhile, heat oil in large nonstick-skillet
on medium high heat. Add chicken, cook & stir until no longer pink. Add
peppers & shrooms; cook 3 min. stirring occasionally. Stir in tomatoes &
dressing. Reduce heat to medium low; simmer 5 minutes or until chicken
is cooked through. Drain pasta. Toss with chicken mixture. Sprinkle with
cheese and basil. Serve up with hot, crusty bread and a fresh garden salad
with fresh Italian dressing. Delish!
SWEET AS HONEY KISSES CRAB CAKES FOR
DAYTONA BIKE WEEK
Web Design
Crusecom Technology Consultants
4238 California Street
Oscoda, MI 48750
989-739-5070
www.crusecom.com
1 Pkg. of Cornbread Stove-Top-Stuffing Mix
2 Cans of Premium Quality Crabmeat
1/3 Cup of Real Mayonnaise or Miracle Whip (whichever is your
preference)
1 Tbls. Quality Margarine or Real Butter
Salt & Pepper to Taste
Mix up Stove-Top-Stuffing as directed. To the completed mixture, add the
mayonnaise and 2 cans of crabmeat.
In a large nonstick skillet sprayed with cooking spray on medium heat,
shape 1/3 cupfuls of the stuffing/crab mixture into patties; add to skillet
in batches. Cook approx. 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown
on both sides, turning carefully when you do. Top with fresh tartar sauce
or orange marmalade mixed with a spoonful of salsa for a little kick that’s
also sweet. :)
STURGIS’ MOST BLISSFUL & SINFUL BROWNIES
4 Squares Baker’s Unsweetened Baking Chocolate
1/3 Cup Canola Oil
1/3 Cup Unsweetened Applesauce
1 tsp. Vanilla
2 Cups Sugar
8 Large Egg Whites
1 Cup Flour
1/2 Cup Planters Chopped Pecans
Preheat oven to 350 F. Line 13x9 in. baking pan with foil with ends
extending over short sides of pan. Grease foil generously. Nuke chocolate
in large micro bowl on high 1 min. Stir until chocolate is completely
melted. Add oil, applesauce & vanilla. Mix Well. Stir in sugar. Add egg
whites; stir until well blended. Add flour & pecans; mix well. Spread batter
into prepared pan. Bake 25 min. or until brownies pull away from sides
of pan easily. Cool completely. Remove brownies from pan using foil
handles you made. Place on serving tray & drool.
BIG DOG’S MEET & GREET KISS ME HELLO
SUMPTUOUSLY SMOOTH HOT CHOCOLATE
6 Cups of Cold, Whole Milk
1 Pkg. Jello-O Chocolate Flavor Instant Pudding & Pie Fill
6 Tbsp. Thawed Creamy Style Cool Whip Whipped Topping
Pour milk into medium. saucepan. Add dry pudding mix; beat with wire
whisk 1 min. Bring just to simmer on medium heat stirring frequently
with wire whisk. Pour evenly into 6 mugs; top with creamy style whipped
topping. Sit and sip with your special someone.
Happy “V” Day!
TO ALL OUR BRAVE, PROUD TROOPS... YOU’RE IN OUR THOUGHTS & PRAYERS DAILY. God Speed You Home.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 30
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 29
M/C, Assn., or Org.
�
VietNamVets Motorcycle Club
State of Tennessee
ORGANIZATIONS
A.B.A.T.E. of Michigan
P.O. Box 309
Milford, MI 48381
www.abateofmichigan.org
Forgotten Eagles of Michigan
P.O.Box 151
DeTour Village, MI 49725
906-440-0294
www.forgotteneagles.org
MOTORCYCLE
CLUBS
Flint Motorcycle Club
www.flintmororcycleclub.com
Free Spirit M/C Ladies Riding Club
Vickie Foster, Chapter Director
248 506-7992
www.FreeSpiritChapter.com
Metro Triumph Riders
Kerby’s Coney Island.
5407 Crooks Rd Troy, MI
Every 2nd Sunday of the month 9:00 am.
(Except May and Sept.)
www.metrotriumphriders.com
Sirens M/C
Saginaw, MI - 989-781-2636
www.sirensmc.com
U.S. Military Vets M.C.
Jackson, MI - 517-945-1416
www.usmvmcmi1.org
FREEDOM
ISN'T FREE.
SUPPORT
YOUR LOCAL
VNV MC!
Rick "Rickster" Perry
Club President
SCC#0001
American HOG
(901) 837-3738 or e-mail:
American Harley-Davidson*
[email protected]
5436 Jackson Road
Annwww.midtnscrc.org/
Arbor, MI 48103
734-747-8008
Tennessee V is located in Nashville,
Tenn. and consists of law enforcement
Calhoun County
HOG
personnel from many agencies in the
Mahrle’s Harley-Davidson*
Middle Tennessee area. The chapter
5738 Beckley Roadwas chartered in 1995.
Battle Creek,
MI 49015
www.blueknightstnv.bizland.com
269-979-2233
Tennessee V chapter of the Blue Knights International Motorcycle Club, Inc.
CoolLadyCruisers
Chattanooga,TNChapter
Tri-County HOG
Saginaw Valley Harley-Davidson*
3850 S. Huron Road
Bay City, MI 48706
989-686-0400
www.wowchattanooga.com
Crossroads HOG
CONTACT
Brighton Harley –Davidson
INFORMATION:
5942 Whitmore Lake
Road
SUGAR BEAR
Brighton, MI 48116
810-225-2915 CLARKSVILLE,TN
(931)387-4417
http://www.ladiesinthewind.org.
Flint HOG
Cummings
Harley-Davidson*
Ladies In The
Wind
5350 Davison Road
Burton, MI 48509
810-234-6646
Irish Hills HOG
Town & Country Harley-Davidson*
US 12 & 127
Cement City, MI 49233
517-547-3333
Great Lakes Southeast Michigan
HOG
Detroit Harley-Davidson*
25152 Van Dyke Road
Center Line, MI 48015
586-756-1284
Wolverine HOG
Wolverine Harley-Davidson*
44660 N. Gratiot Avenue
Clinton Township, MI 48036
586-463-7700
Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club Michigan
Chapter
Bill Bunker – State Rep
989-585-3965
www.valkyrieriders.com/mi
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 28
Capitol Area HOG
Capitol Harley-Davidson*
9550 Woodlane Drive
Dimondale, MI 48821
517-646-2345
THRCA
TheTennesseeHondaRider's Club
Motor City HOG
Motor City Harley-Davidson*
34900 Grand River Avenue
Farmington Hills, MI 48335
248-473-7433
www.mthrc.org
Law Enforcement
Fremont HOG
motorcycle clubs
Sandy’s Harley-Davidson*
11940 N. Maple Island Road
Fremont, MI 49412
213-924-3020
Knoxville,
TN
45th Parallel HOG
Welcome Gold WingRoadRidersAssociation.Wearethe
Northwoods
world's largestsiHarley-Davidson*
ngle-marquesocialorganizationforowners
980 S. Wisconsin
andridersofHondaGoldAvenue
Wingmotorcycles;and,some
d say,th49735
eworld's largestfamily.Dedicatedto our
Gaylord,woulMI
motto,FriendsforFun,Safety and Knowledge,GWRRA
989-732-8000
membersenjoythefreedomofbelongingto anon-profit,
non-religiousandnon-politicalorganization.
Grand Rapids HOG
Wild Boar Harley-Davidson*
2977 Corporate Grove Drive
Contact MI
Information
Hudsonville,
49426
Telephone 615-683-6608
616-896-0111
CMT/ABATE
FAX 615-683-8616
Postal address P.O. Box 18 Gordonsville,TN 38563-0018 ,
Southwest
TN Michigan
37133-0984 HOG
"Your Political
Organization" under CMT/ABATE.
Perry Rights
Harley-Davidson*
5331 S. Sprinkle Road
Kalamazoo, MICMT/ABATE
49002
269-329-3450Carro; Charter
Biker Rights "Our Speciality
Lapeer HOG
731-986-8817
Ray C’s Harley-Davidson*
20450
E.
St. Hunington Tn.
1422 Imlay CityMain
Road
Lapeer, MI 48446
810-664-9261
Superior HOG
Bald Eagle Harley-Davidson*
2080 US 41 West
Marquette, MI 49855
906-228-5330
The Lions
of Judah meet the 2nd Tuesday
Port Huron
HOG
of
each
month at the Shoney’s in
Gilbert’s Harley-Davidson*
NashvilleRoad
off I-24 at the James Robertson
3350 Lapeer
Parkway
exit at 7:00 PM.
Port Huron, MI
48060
810-982-4351contact # 615-331-2867
Rolling Thunder ®, Inc.
Tri-State HOG
TENNESSEE CHAPTER 1
Hamlin’s Harley-Davidson*
BECOME ASchool
MEMBER OF ROLLING
THUNDER LETS RIDE
68951 White
Road
TO THE49091
WALL THIS YEAR AND SHO W YOUR SUPPORT
Sturgis, MI
FOR THE VOLUNTEER STATE FOR INFO.
269-651-3424
www.rollingthunder1.com or W.A.SARTIN @615-895-2093
Motown HOG
Bikers Who Care is an Organization of Motorcycle Enthusiasts
Biker Bob’s Harley-Davidson*
to supporting The Dream Factory of Clarksville, TN
14100dedicated
Telegraph
Road
by
sponsoring
Camp Rainbow - a Summer Camp for Seriously
Taylor, MI 48180
ill Children. www.bikerswhocare.org
734-947-4647
Telephone 931.551.9878
Postal address
Northern
HOGP.O. Box 1253 Clarksville, TN 37041-1253
Classic Motor Sports HarleyDavidson*
3939 S. Blue Star Drive
FREEDOMISN'
FREE MI GIVENONETAKENONE
TraverseTCity,
49684
231-943-9344
SecondBrigadeM/C
931-906-0604
Waterford HOG
A.B.C. Harley-Davidson*
COVENANT CONFIRMERS
4405 HighlandMINISTRIES,
Road
INC.
Waterford, Evangelist:
MI 48328 Ron Baptiste
248-674-3175ALL ARE WELCOME
(615) 384-9010
West Branch HOG
Gildner’swww.covenantconfirmers.org
Harley-Davidson*
2723 S. M-76
West Branch, MI 48661
989-345-1330
* Sponsoring Dealership
Central Michigan HOG
C & S Harley-Davidson*
4741 E. Pickard Street
Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858
989-772-5513
Muskegon HOG
Hot Rod Harley-Davidson*
590 Ottawa Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
231-722-3653
Shiawassee HOG
Shiawassee Harley-Davidson*
11901 N. Beyer Road
Birch Run, MI 48415
989-624-4400
If you would like to have your
Organization listed here contact:
Thunder Roads of Michigan
989-861-0682.
This service is provided
FREE OF CHARGE
This Page is donated by Thunder Roads, to
the local M/C, Orgs. Assn. for the purpose of
helping to get information out to the riders of
Michigan. If we do not have your M/C, Org,
Assn. listed here and you would like for it to
be OR if we have your M/C, Org., Assn. listed
here and you do not wish to have it listed here
contact us @ 989-861-0682
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 31
RAY C’s
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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 32
8 1 0 -664-9261
1422 Imlay City Road, Lapeer, MI
M-21 1.25 Miles East of Lapeer
www.raycsh-d.com
FAX
810-664-4523