Quick Throttle Magazine California Edition July 2012
Transcription
Quick Throttle Magazine California Edition July 2012
4 JULY 2012 05 07 11 12 19 20 23 25 32 35 38 42 - SPEEDBUMPS STREET VIBES VINTAGE BIKE NIGHT ROLLING THUNDER FLAGS OVER THE DAM WOMEN WHO RIDE WEEKLY EVENTS RIDE & EVENT CALENDAR MAY RIDE LAUGHLIN, PART II FLAGS FOR THE FALLEN ARMED FORCES DAY 15 - HD ULTRA ROAD TEST ON THE COVER: The Real Thing" by David Uhl, see more at www.uhlstudios.com) CONTRIBUTORS: YOU, the Motorcycling Community CHRIS DALGAARD LISA DALGAARD ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER NATIONAL PUBLISHER & CA EDITOR CALIFORNIA Randy Twells Gary Mraz Art Hall Kevin DeCapite Ray Seidel Steven Ron Sinoy ART DIRECTOR ARIZONA Famous Jake “Wild Bill” Saxton Digger Dave George Childress NEVADA Dangerous James Lucky Laurie Nixie Cheryl Warren Ed “Orgy” Iorg STAFF WRITERS: PHOTOGRAPHERS: CD, Randy Twells, Lisa Dalgaard, Mike Dalgaard, Famous Jake, Tom "PIR8" Tinney, Ray Seidel, Robert Sweeney, Art Hall, “Wild Bill” Saxton Art Hall, Ray Ambler, Ron Sinoy, CD, George Childress, WEBMASTER Chrome Horse Promoons hp://chrome-horse.net 5 JULY 2012 Bikers Beat Up Prius Driver for Crashing into 2 Motorcycles A distracted Toyota Prius driver got a crash course in what not to do behind the wheel, and how not to cross paths with burly bikers looking for a fight. The Prius driver, a 19-year-old man from San Jose, Calif., was headed north on U.S. 101 near Belmont about 8 a.m. Sunday when members of several motorcycle clubs sped by in the fast lane, the San Francisco Chronicle reports. The Prius driver took out his cell phone and began recording video, a California Highway Patrol officer said. And that's when trouble really took off. The Prius driver, apparently distracted by his cellphone video, at first veered to the right into another lane of traffic. He then overcorrected and swerved into the fast lane, hitting one of the bikers, CHP officers told the Chronicle. The Prius crashed into a dividing wall and a second motorcyclist before stopping. Some bikers then confronted the 19-year-old driver and started beating him up, witnesses said. The driver also claims he was threatened with a knife. When emergency crews arrived, the Prius driver and two bikers were taken to hospitals for treatment of minor injuries. The Prius driver will be cited for distracted driving, the Chronicle reports. That likely falls under California's prohibition on using handheld cell phones while driving, which comes with a $20 fine for a first violation and a $50 fine for subsequent convictions, according to the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Though using a handheld device while driving has been illegal in California since 2009, more drivers are getting caught. More than 60,000 tickets were issued for distracted driving in California in April 2012, up from 52,000 tickets in April 2011, Sacramento's KXTV reported. As for the Prius driver's beating, the bikers responsible could be charged with battery -- the intentional use of force against another person. If convicted, battery is punishable by up to six months in jail and a $2,000 fine in California. Being threatened with a knife is also grounds for an assault charge -- an unlawful attempt to cause violent injury. A conviction could result in up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Attention Motorcycle Sellers General Motors Cancels All Facebook Ads Citing the fact that their own internal studies show Facebook advertising as "ineffective", General Motors, the 2nd largest advertiser on Facebook, cancelled $40 Million in paid advertising per annum. Recent independent studies show that 63% of Facebook users "Never" look at advertising while they are on the site. Another 22% "rarely" look at ads and the remaining 15% often look at ads. Another study shows that the biggest "missing" demographic on Facebook is the MALE between the ages of 35 and 65. Can you say Harley-Davidson anyone? TSUNAMI MOTORCYCLE TO BE PRESERVED BY H-D MUSEUM Milwaukee (May 25, 2012) – A Harley-Davidson motorcycle recovered on the coast of British Columbia after drifting for more than a year and 4,000 miles across the Pacific Ocean following last year’s Japanese Tsunami will be preserved by the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee as a memorial to the tragedy that claimed more than 15,000 lives, in accordance with the wishes of its owner, Ikuo Yokoyama. The remarkable story of the 2004 FXSTB Softail Night Train motorcycle’s survival and recovery by Canadian Peter Mark made international headlines after he found it washed ashore on a remote beach on British Columbia’s Graham Island at low tide. Mark discovered the motorcycle, still bearing its Japanese license plate, along with several other items in the remains of an insulated cargo van container where the motorcycle was being stored by Yokoyama prior to the Tsunami that struck Japan on March 11, 2011. Working with news agencies and representatives from Deeley Harley-Davidson Canada and Harley-Davidson Japan, contact was made with 29-year-old Yokoyama, who lost his home and currently lives in temporary housing in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. Harley-Davidson offered to return his bike. But still struggling to rebuild his life in the aftermath of the disaster, Yokoyama respectfully declined. Although grateful for the offer to repatriate his motorcycle and touched by the outpouring of support from Harley riders around the world, Yokoyama requested to have it preserved in the Harley-Davidson Museum in honor of those whose lives were lost or forever changed by the disaster. “It is truly amazing that my Harley-Davidson motorcycle was recovered in Canada after drifting for more than a year,” said Yokoyama. “I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt appreciation to Peter Mark, the finder of my motorcycle. Due to circumstances caused by the disaster, I have been so far unable to visit him in Canada to convey my gratitude.” “I would like to thank all people around the world once again for their wholehearted support of the areas hit by the earthquake and Tsunami. I would like to ask them to help convey messages from the Japanese people about the tragedy of the Great East Japan Earthquake, which was a disaster of historic proportions.” “My heart really goes out to Ikuo Yokoyama and all the survivors of the T hoku earthquake and Tsunami for everything that was taken from them. I cannot even begin to comprehend the loss of family, friends and community,” said Mark. “I think it is fitting that the Harley which was swept across the Pacific Ocean by the Tsunami will end up in the Harley-Davidson Museum as a memorial to that tragic event. It has an interesting and powerful story to convey preserved in its current state.” The motorcycle was recovered by Mark with the help of friends and transported to Victoria with support from Ralph Tieleman and Steve Drane of Steve Drane Harley-Davidson. It has since been transferred to Deeley H-D Canada in Vancouver. Plans for its transportation to and display at the Harley-Davidson Museum are being developed. “I’ve always felt Harley-Davidson motorcycles have a soul, and their owners obviously have an emotional attachment to their bikes. I just wanted to reunite this bike with its owner,” said Steve Drane of Steve Drane Harley-Davidson in Victoria, B.C. “The Harley-Davidson Museum is honored to receive this amazing motorcycle to ensure that its condition is preserved and can be displayed as a memorial to the Japan Tsunami tragedy,” said Bill Davidson, Vice President of the Harley-Davidson Museum. MICHIGAN REPEALS ITS HELMET LAW: The state of Michigan has overturned and repealed its long standing helmet law by making it a-o.k. to ride without a helmet provided you are at least 21, have at least $10K in medical insurance and have taken a safety course or been riding with an endorsement for at least two years. The original law was considered very flawed and given the current political climate in Michigan both parties decided to essentially throw the law out and replace it as described above. Several lawsuits by various interest groups instigated the reform. It goes into effect immediately. What makes this law a bit unusual is that riders need not carry proof of insurance or that they have taken a safety course, nor may law enforcement pull over anyone simply because they are sans helmet. Currently there are 31 states where helmets are not required under various conditions with most requiring just a simple medical insurance policy to CONTINUED ON PAGE 53 JULY 2012 STORY BY RANDY TWELLS; PHOTOS BY RT & CONTRIBUTORS* June 1-3 in Sparks, Reno and Virginia City. Once again, we hit the highway for Northern Nevada. up the 395 corridor through the Eastern Sierra. I stop continually to shoot pictures along the road, how can I not? Mt. Whitney and its neighboring peaks just astound the senses imagining being up there and looking down at us at the same time we are looking UP. At 14,505 feet it’s the tallest mountain in the 48 states. All through the Owens valley are reminders of this being old western film country, where the Duke and many others rode ‘em hard & put ‘em up wet. And I don’t mean bikes! (or horses either, sometimes…) And the ascent from the valley out of Bishop up past Mammoth Lakes to Lee Vining, past Mono Lake’s glassy waters and strange stalagmite formations, the peaks of Yosemite and beyond, wind gusts blowing puffs of snow off their crests in the glaring sun, the winding road dropping out into the valley where Bridgeport stands, golden in peaceful evening pastoral sunlight. From there, onward north along the Walker River- a shallow winding tumult of rocky rapids. The passage into Nevada is epic. Quick Throttle HQ at John Ascuaga’s Nugget—if you visited the Nugget I’m sure you noted you could pick up a Quick Throttle in the lobby at Registration or the Bell Desk— I settled in to my comfy digs, greeted by a wonderful room with perfect air temp the whole weekend, never had to adjust the thermostat, and 2 complimentary bottles of water. I have to mention this and say, “kudos” to John Ascuaga for getting it right--because everyone ELSE charges your room bill for these tempting items at about $3 a pop if you open one! Street Vibrations is a unique event, showcasing Northern Nevada. Sparks is the small town sidekick to Reno, “The Biggest Little City in the World”, and within a day’s ride to other far flung towns separated by long stretches of unpopulated virgin desert, sagebrush and mountains. Virginia City and Reno play second fiddle in Spring to the Sparks/Victorian Square main event area with John Ascuaga’s Nugget as the major sponsor and venue for the headline concert, this year by the Unauthorized Rolling Stones. So we began our weekend with walking the vendors, checking out the local boys -- LivFast Stunt Show 3X freestyle bikes in the air at once, and John Stotts & Bela Tabak riding dirt bikes inside the 14.5 ft. diameter Globe of Death, both at the same 7 8 OCTOBER 2011 time going upside down and all around too. I get to shoot looking up through the metal grids for the exclusive Quick Throttle photo. The Iron Horse Rodeo roping competition was a new thing but got derailed due to gusty winds that blew the horse over, it being a model of a horse, not a real one. Next time--The Slow Races got off to a..slow..start, on purpose! Local radio host Trey Valentine was here with BOB 93.7 doing the MC honors and with the beautiful scantily clad model who acted as the starter, she also using some very visual signals for the racers- hand held high was ‘ready’, hand held outstretched at her side was ‘set’, and GO was, she dipped down a bit and slapped herself soundly on her butt cheek. You had to be there. A cigar smoking entrant was the winner, and races went on all weekend with big crowds at this first time Streets feature. The Hot Rod display by Miller’s Chop Shop was also new, some beautiful examples of vintage rats & rods and custom restorations. Beautiful memories of days gone by. Unauthorized!! Rolling Stones-- The Nugget set up the Celebrity Showroom with a dance floor down in front this time, making it easier for big fans of the Stones to dance and appreciate up-close the swagger and strut that Rudy Columbini and the others brought to this Stones tribute performance. ‘Keith Richards’ had the authentic crazy feather trimmed hair and all the moves and guitar licks too. All in all a great show that brought back some good times, or at least for those who actually recall them! Great stage lighting in the Celebrity Showroom makes for a great visual show too and great photos which we have more of in our Quick Throttle online Gallery so check it out! Virginia City was the destination for the Saturday Poker Run with bikes lining the curb all along the main street. Riders take the scenic route on the highway into these mountains that I can’t imagine traversing daily as a dirt road in the 1800’s when this former mining town was booming. Virginia City is its own isolated microcosm with a mystique born of strange visitors in empty hallways and high mountains on which slopes it perches, separating it from the outside world. Our Northern Nevada correspondent Irish Flame Dana Fruend /Anam Cara Tours gave us the Ghost Tour -- The Bucket of Blood Saloon, the Old Washoe Club, Tahoe House and the whole town are like walking around in a sudden time warp to 100 years ago, and you can stay in the rooms that have seen everything. The uneven plank sidewalks keeping pedestrians above the 1800’s mud street are still as they were, whether walked on by a young lady in her long frock and petticoats with hightop buttoned shoes or by a gunfighter in a long coat and boots. Chester’s Reno Harley-Davidson’s party for Spring Streets was the place to be this year. Marketing Manager Amy Baker says, “We had a much bigger crowd than last year and our parking lot started filling up with bikes as early as 9am. We had an excellent band (Alias Smith) that had people dancing in the parking lot until late in the day, and we announced the winner of our May Ladies Boots Giveaway. The Dish Truck, a gourmet food truck that has been featured on the food network, was serving in our parking lot from 11-4pm and Road Shows had a beer truck serving all day as well. Despite the heat (almost 97 degrees), the dealership was busy and a lot of people came out to not only party, but to check out our great inventory of new and used bikes. As a major sponsor of both Spring and Fall Street Vibrations, …we encourage people to make Chester’s Reno HarleyDavidson a regular stop in their plans to attend Street Vibes in Reno and Sparks. While we are separate from the downtown areas, we always have a lot going on here, in conjunction with what Road Shows has planned, and we’ve always had, lively, fun and peaceful events at our dealership. While Spring Streets is still gaining momentum, during the fall event we have dozens of vendors, multiple live bands, street closures and a huge party that goes on all week long.” JUNE 2012 Back at Victorian Square in Sparks the Roadshows models in their tall feather headdresses and red chaps are a striking presence offering tickets for a drawing for the brand new 2012 Harley 72 to be awarded one lucky winner in the fall with proceeds benefiting Juvenile Diabetes research. And Roadshows takes care of their VIP registered attendees with a VIP party Friday and Saturday evenings upstairs in the Nugget’s convention area with live music and free food and drinks including beer. Feed them and they will come! Saturday also featured an arm wrestling competition and the ceremonial Flag Raising with the National Anthem by solo vocalist Tamara Evans. Cheap Lick tribute band brought out the Dream Police ladies for their show Saturday at the outdoor stage on the Square—oh yes, this is their troop of ladies who will keep everyone in line at the show! With official badges (badges? BADGES??) and nightsticks, I’m not going to argue with them… a great show with all the Cheap Trick hits. Sunday the Bike Show was again graced by Lenny Walker with his original creation bike as he also entered last year. Lenny is a train conductor who last year due to entering the Bike Show at Spring Street Vibrations, was NOT working on the train when a big rig driver slammed into it broadside out on the desert, derailing the train, killing himself but sparing the conductor filling in for Lenny. Lenny was in a different place than he normally would have been, and who knows what might have been if the Bike Show had not beckoned to him. We were glad he was with us again this year. The Best of Show winner was a 1939 Harley service car that Dave the owner bought in 1990 for $600, with the original box, put in $8000 worth of parts and his own labor since then, and enters yearly but show judge Gordon Madison sticking to his criteria and playing no favorites, passes on it for one minor thing or another. But this year it finally won the top prize. With a beautiful red paint job and well done restoration, using the original box, the little red trike deserved its win. The rest of the afternoon Sunday was for relaxing and listening to the bands on the outdoor stage, Jelly Bread being the funky pop R&B hit of the day, doing Stevie Wonder, Al Green etc., the bass player doing a killer solo on ‘Superstition’, and people got so into it that spontaneous moms, grandma’s and kids and dads all got up and partied like it’s 1999. The dais’s that had displayed the Chester’s H-D bikes were now impromptu go-go dancer platforms and made all the better in that these were just regular gals who lost all inhibition and became like a flash mob of 2. (Not to be confused with the Go Go Bar’s bartop dancer in 4 inch platforms and a bikini who collected patrons’ dollar bills in her garters.) For those who were around late afternoon and hungry, we found that the food vendors’ BBQ and ice tea, lemonade etc. were all now $1 per item. It pays to stick around! Many hundreds of bikes parked all over Victorian Square and the Nugget parking areas, vendors of every description and numerous bands rounded out the stuff to see, hear, do and buy. We saw bikes and met people from all over California, the Southwest and the Northwest too. The June issue of Quick Throttle was a popular free pickup perk not only in the Nugget but also out on the Square at many spots. Save the date Sept. 19-23 for Fall Street Vibrations again in Northern Nevada and another great road trip. More Spring Street Vibrations 2012 photos and Unauthorized Rolling Stones concert photos at: http://quickthrottle.com/media-archive/2012-photo-gallery/ For 2012 Spring Street Vibrations Competition Winners Info please visit: http://www.roadshowsreno.com/spring_winners/index.php *Some photos courtesy of Chester’s Reno H-D, the band Alias Smith 9 11 JULY 2012 BY LUCKY LAURIE Vegas has a reputation for being hip, hop, and new. The 3rd Friday of each month Dyno Tech changes that by presenting Vintage Bike Night at the Arts Factory downtown. Steve and Tara from Dyno Tech started this a year ago just as a birthday party for Steve, but when 60 bikes showed up they decided to make it a monthly event. June 15th marks the one year anniversary, and it went from 60 bikes to 300 plus! The Arts Factory is a great host for this event, located centrally in Las Vegas, at 107 E. Charleston. They are always biker friendly, and have great specials. On Vintage Bike Nights they serve LeChon which is roasted pig for five dollars. The drink specials are three dollar Costello and three dollar well drinks. Sunday mornings they have a blue grass brunch which they call the Hangover cure! Have a bloody mary or a mimosa on the patio and enjoy the music. Live music can be heard Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights too. You will have to visit one Friday night to see the body paint exhibit. It is a sight to see, mixing the arts and the vintage bikes. Speaking of Vintage, it was great to see a guy roll in on his 1942 Knucklehead! Yes, I said roll in, it’s nice to see such an awesome, museum-worthy bike being ridden! After all, Harleys were made to ride. They pulled their permits in order to keep the peace with the police, and when you pull in the south side of the street is reserved for the vintage bikes. It’s nice to see them all lined up as if they had been riding together forever. Other than the fact that I think some of those bikes are priceless, someone mentioned there was over 2 million dollars in parts in one small area! All bikes are welcome and many are already represented. So don’t forget to roll on over to the Art’s Factory as seen on Undercover Restaurant, to eat drink and be wowed by the sights. See you there every third Friday, you never know what you’ll see! 12 JULY 2012 JULY 2012 13 15 JULY 2012 The last several years have proved tough for everyone. I even felt sorry for Warren Buffett - supposedly that dude took a 9.6 billion dollar hit on one stock. What’s a guy to do? Well…if you’re Warren Buffett you take a $300 million dollar motorcycle ride on a Harley-Davidson. (The amount he invested in HD in 2009). A billionaire I am not but I can play wealthy media mogul for a weekend and take a $37,264 dollar ride on Harley-Davidson’s most expensive motorcycle: the 2012 CVO Electra Glide Ultra Classic. And just where does one go, wrapped in such luxury? Book a room at the five star Hotel and Spa the L’Auberge in Del Mar California. Moto-Journalists are familiar with the L’Auberge because it’s actually a favorite for press launches. Right on the ocean, yet close to the Palomar mountains providing exceptional riding to the quaint mountain towns like Julian and Idyllwild. But this moto-journo is planning something leisurely and local, like Para-gliding. Yes I’m going to jump off a cliff in nearby Torrey Pines. 16 JULY 2012 This 2012 CVO Electra Glide Ultra Classic with Wicked Sapphire/Stardust Silver with Big City Lights graphics paint trumpets “I have arrived,” and in style and comfort. Both rider and passenger are in control of the independently adjustable heated seats while lumbar support will help those long miles pass by comfortably. Heated hand grips, cruise control that’s easily operable via controls on the right handlebar, and ABS contribute to its list of touring luxuries. Another luxury item is its one button power locking system. Owners can lock or unlock the ignition, saddlebags and Tour-Pak luggage using the key fob. The fob is an important device to the CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide as it also activates the Smart Security System and the bike won’t start unless the key fob is within range. Launching onto the freeway this motorcycling media mogul is quickly reminded why we love Harley-Davidson so much. The TC110 engine is immediately palatable taking this salacious 900 lb. bike (1400 lbs. with two riders and luggage) into the fast lane with unbridled fury. Damn this bike sounds good stock; how the hell do they do that? I need to see how well behaved this behemoth is on the twisties, and so to the mountains we go. I am thoroughly impressed by the ferocious TC110 power plant. Girlfriend seems more impressed with lumbar support and extremely comfy seating. Charging Hwy. 74, the Ortega Highway through the Santa Ana Mountains, this beast corners aggressively; even fully laden the TC110 pulls ferociously up mountains grades. I’m certainly riding high now at the famous Lookout Café, The view is spectacular but we are anxious to luxuriate at our destination and forge onto Del Mar via the Hwy 15 south. The 2012 Ultra Classic also pumps up the volume the premium Harman Kardon audio system that has it all: 4 speakers (2 up front and 2 in back) with an amplifier that distributes 40 watts per channel, an AM/FM receiver, CD and MP3 player even an intercom and CB, “this one goes to 11.” The system Audio Bass Booster Ports in the bottom liner of the Tour-Pak and the 8GB iPod Nano which comes as part of the package and is now accessible via the hand controls. A Road Tech Zumo 660 GPS, standard gear on the CVO Ultra Classic, will keep riders on the desired path. Harley mounts it on the upper left corner of the fairing so they did- n’t have to rearrange the layout of the Ultra Classic’s gauges. It also makes it easy to see when in motion. The L’Auberge in Del Mar bespeaks solitude, something of a secret treasure; inconspicuously hidden it overlooks the Pacific Ocean. The hotel is located on the historic site of the original Stratford Inn built in 1909 which eventually became the original Hotel Del Mar, a favorite hot spot for Hollywood film stars. Completely renovated in 2008 the rooms are light and airy with very homey feel. Offering gorgeous sunset views, refreshing dining options, a cheerful and cozy spa, private footpath to the beach, and plush accommodations. Ranked among the top resorts in the world by Condé Nast, L'Auberge Del Mar is the perfect place for a romantic getaway, a special event, or corporate meeting for media moguls such as I. We were fortunate to arrive on the official opening day of the L’Auberge new restaurant, Kitchen 1540, and new executive chef, Scott Dolbee. Its newly renovated dining room interior and outdoor patio are exquisite. I enjoyed their house special, a Ferrari Martini - Grey Goose, Campari, and Drambue with a lemon twist. Girlfriend had her usual Chardonnay Albert Bichot Chablis 2009, Burgundy, France. The Kitchen 1540 cuisine is eclectic, appropriately described on the menu as “A playful, whimsical approach to modern American cooking led by pristine ingredients along with progressive technique and out of the box thinking.” Without question some of the most creative and tasteful dishes I have ever eaten. Well worth a visit for dinner alone their extensive offerings meld classic and unexpected making KITCHEN 1540 something one simply has to try when dining in Del Mar. Oh and back to this amazing motorcycle - ABS comes standard with the components tastefully hidden within the wheel hub providing a clean, streamlined design. High-performance dual disc Brembo brakes offer consistent stopping power. The 4-piston front and rear calipers with dual front rotor brake system is state of the art and top of the line. A high output charging system provides an electrical capacity robust enough for your add-ons: heated vests, lights to showcase the engine, you name it. There is an additional 12 Volt supply in the Tour Pak providing 15 amps of power. The next morning my girlfriend luxuriated at the Spa L’Auberge and indulged a rhythmic Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage designed to relax the mind, release muscle tension. I on the other hand head for Torrey Pines Gliderport for some Para-gliding. Only ten miles from 17 JULY 2012 NEW Three exclusive paint schemes: the L’Auberge the Glider port offers hang gliding and Para-gliding. Para gliding is very different from Para-sailing. Para-sailing requires a boat, while paragliding is free-flight; you’re not attached to anything. Para-gliders can fly on the coast, and many also fly inland, at mountain sites. Para-gliders can also steer, and the pilot provides the input to the wing. In Para-sailing, you're being pulled along by a boat with no control. Generally, tandem flights for both paragliding and hang gliding are about 20-25 minutes long. Sometimes, the ride might be longer or shorter depending on the wind conditions, and your pilot will let you know. If your ride is less than 20 minutes, there are a number of options that you can work out with your pilot at their discretion, including a discount or coming back for another full flight. Truly an amazing experience, exactly what us motorcyclist’s love - wind in your face, flying free, only you’re 1000 feet above the ground with no handlebars. I highly recommend this, the perfect father’s day gift or fun for the whole family. There is no age limit, they tell me they’ve had 13 month old babies to 98-year old great grandmothers paragliding. Torrey Pines Gliderport has been in business for years and is the most popular site in America for Paragliding and Hang Gliding. Prices range from $150 to $200 dollars with special military discounts and a ten dollars discount for cash. Back at the hotel, the poolside Bleu Bar offers unique snacks and cocktails. The gorgeous Wa- terfall Terrace graces the hotel courtyard and is open to the public. And from of looks if it on weekend evenings a great place to go hunting for “cougars” and other wild game. After all, the median age in Del Mar is fifty, median income is six figures and median house seven figures. Without a doubt the L’Auberge Hotel and Spas has it all. Across the street are the shops and restaurants of Del Mar Village, and scenic hiking trails at the Torrey Pines State Reserve. Nearby, enjoy golfing at exclusive courses with panoramic views, in the summer watch horse races at the nearby Del Mar Racetrack. The Amtrak skirts the ocean and the closer the rooms are to the ocean the more audible the trains become. On our last day we breakfasted across the street at the Americana. I enjoyed the Portobello omelet with grilled balsamic Portobello mushrooms, goat cheese and roasted mushrooms. Girlfriend had their famous homemade Belgian waffle and cappuccinos. Unfortunately all good things must come to an end and we mounted the CVO Electra Glide Ultra Classic and headed home. Once in Long Beach, girlfriend begged for the fantasy to continue and head to Santa Barbara for the night. But alas, with credit cards tapped out and Electra Glide Ultra Classic’s return overdue, this media mogul needs to get back to reality. As always, Harley-Davidson takes CVO very seriously and any one lucky enough to be an owner of such luxury is always riding high. • Electric Orange/Black Diamond with Big City Lights graphics • Crystal Citron/Diamond Dust with Big City Lights graphics • Wicked Sapphire/Stardust Silver with Big City Lights graphics • NEW Mirror Chrome Chisel Custom wheels, 17-inch front and 16-inch rear • NEW Chisel rotors, front • NEW BOOM!™ Audio High Performance BOOM!™ Bagger front and rear speakers, (40W per channel), Harman/Kardon® Advanced Audio system, SiriusXM® satellite radio (U.S. & Canadian models only), CB/ Intercom (excluding Japan) and NEW Amplifier with customized equalization for BOOM! Audio • NEW Plush Tour-Pak® bottom liner with BOOM!™ Audio Bass Booster Ports NEW 8GB Apple® iPod® nano with integrated iPod® holder connects to the audio system through an iPod® Interface • NEW Diamond-cut, Charcoal CB pod insert on Chrome tank console with custom CB pod • NEW Navigation Interface Module • NEW Chrome LED King Tour-Pak® luggage Brake/Tail Lamp on deluxe injection-molded GTX® Tour-Pak® features 2.26 cu.ft. volume, • Air-wing Tour-Pak® rack and NEW Diamond-cut, Charcoal Tour-Pak® insert. • Twin Cam 110™ granite powder-coated powertrain with 110 Screamin’ Eagle® identifiers on cylinder heads • Rumble Collection rider and passenger footboard inserts, shifter pegs, brake pedal, highway pegs, mirrors, and heated hand grips with chrome end cap 19 JULY 2012 BY LUCKY LAURIE Honor. it’s the first word that comes to mind. It was an honor to be a part of such an amazing event. I have participated many times and the feeling never changes; I get choked up every time. The Hoover Dam, located just 30 miles south of Las Vegas is a wonder in itself. The amazement comes when they close it down once a year, for the Viet Nam Vets and Legacy Vets motorcycle clubs to honor those who served and those who are serving in our mili- tary. Many join them; 1,300 motorcycles cruise across the dam two by two, for miles and miles. People just stand in awe of the pride in front of them. Cars, busses, and tours, of people are lined up waiting their turn to see the dam, but in this hour motorcycles jam up the dam! Thousands of pictures are taken as well as video, TV, and other media, to record the amazing patriotic event. Many stand outside their cars and wave, honk their horns, and salute the flags passing, such pride, even when we have caused an hour or more delay in their day. Patriotic we are for this 17th year of the Flags over the Dam. Everyone wears red, white, and blue, coming together for a great cause. Most bikes donned with the American flag, some with POW, as well as other military flags. One thing you can say - it was proof in numbers that bikers are very patriotic. The day starts on the Arizona side of the Hoover Dam and the ride ends at the Boulder City, Veterans Cemetery. There a short presentation given by the Army Special Forces and Green Berets to honor our fallen. It is a time to give re- spect for those who gave everything for our freedom. Look to the left, it’s a sea of motorcycles. Look to the right, it’s a sea of American Flags. One on each grave. A moment of sadness, and of pride. I’m not sure how you spent your Memorial Day weekend, but I hope you took at least a moment to reflect on its true meaning. Next year if you are in the area, I hope you join us in this proud moment in time to HONOR our military past present and future. Freedom isn’t Free. 20 JULY 2012 BY FAMOUS JAKE I meet a lot of women who ride. So many, that it never strikes me as odd or unusual to have them in the mix, and some of the more interesting among them become subjects of an article like this one. It’s what I do and I love it and personally welcome their presence amongst us. Variety is the spice of life and some of us like it spicey. You’ve got to admit, it would be a hairy, smelly, horny (oops I mean lonely) world without them. But there was a time when acceptance was hard to come by and women riders remain a minority in the biker community. That’s what makes their stories worth telling. Each takes her own path to two-wheeled independence and makes it a little easier for the next one. There always seems to be a few bold pioneers that, in the act of being themselves and marching to the beat of their own drum, blaze a trail that will come to be followed by so many others that it’s easy to overlook the stubborn courage of those first few. Growing up in a small town near the gulf coast of Texas, Lightnin new early on it was a man’s world - but she was determined to always be her own woman and those barriers that could not be broken would take some major dents before she was done. She knew her options in Baytown were limited: barefoot and perpetually pregnant or get out while you can, if you you can, any way you can. So she did what a lot of young men, but not many women, did at the time. She joined the Navy. Back then it was a chapter of the VFW - that is, Very Few Women. But she wanted to serve with honor and integrity, to see the world, and ride the waves. She did pretty well for herself during her six year hitch, being stationed in Spain and Puerto Rico, as well as some stateside duty, and once earned Sailor of the Year honors. It was in the service that she started accumulating tattoos and lost track after fourteen. Being ready to get her land legs under her again, she landed in Tucson. Not a big place for boats or blue water sailors but a great town for bikes and bikers. One of whom she married. Back home ( or would that be down home? ) she’d shared a Honda 90 trail bike with her brother Blaine and sister Cyndi. She’d done some riding as a passenger here and there but this was total immersion. She took to it like a fish to water and soon they opened their own bike shop, called Tucson Custom Scooters. Now, this was a time when riding Harleys meant working on them and it never was her style to be a helpless girly girl on the side of the road, waiting to be rescued by some two-wheeled knight in tarnished leather armor, so she quickly learned her way around a toolbox. As she says, “A woman on a motorcycle has to know what’s between her legs”. Mechanically speaking of course. She also pointed out that she doesn’t care to be on her knees unless she’s next to a motorcycle with a wrench in her hands. Things were going great except for the part about being married, which seemed to run counter to all she had done to establish herself as an independent and free standing human of the female flavor. So she went her own way, reluctantly giving up her role in the business but determined to keep riding. While contemplating her next adventure, she took up tending bar at the old Rainbow and then the Bashful Bandit, which enters into a lot of Tucson biker tales it seems. It was a way for her to get by as a single woman and stay in touch with her biker buddies while she lacked her own ride. Remember this was still a time when some considered a woman on a motorcycle to be a waste of Lightnin JULY 2012 a good woman or a good motorcycle, if not both. But not everyone felt that way. Lightnin didn’t, and there were those who did understand her vision to be a woman and a biker too - and a little help from your friends never hurts when questing boldly into the unknown. One day at work a friend asked her to come out to the parking lot to check out a 74 Triumph Bonneville he was riding. Of course she liked it, it was a cool ride. So he flipped her the key and handed her the title. She still says it’s the best tip she ever got. From day one she dedicated herself to justifying that faith in her and earning respect by living right, riding her own ride, turning her own wrenches, and always keeping up with the big boys. A lot of miles have passed under her wheels since then. For the last eighteen years she has ridden the same 80 inch Harley FLH, tricked out beyond recognition to suit her old school sensibilities. She rebuilt it after a dog running into the road put her down, on her way to her job in the field of veterinary care. Hows that for irony on the subject of American iron? But even after getting bucked off she got back on the iron horse, only now she’s got an iron rod in her leg. In keeping with her country roots she lives out of town at the back of a dead-end road in a beat up trailer that’s crowded with photos and mementos and fits her like a pair of battered old boots. There’s also plenty of room for her shop and it’s a good thing since the bike is her only transportation and she still maintains it herself. Lightnin is a published poet and aspiring songwriter who is happy to be living the dream on her own, still marching to her own tune even if it means beating the drum herself. She says that girls don’t know what they’re doing, ladies know better and do it when they think no one is watching, and women do it because they like it and don’t care who knows or what they may think. That’s why she’s a Woman Who Rides. 21 23 JULY 2012 EVERY NIGHT - FREE DRUNK RIDER PICK-UP SERVICE! When you feel unable to Ride, Decide to call 1-800-649-4749 and we will pick you up, You and your Motorcycle, Sidecar, or Trike and take you both SAFLEY home FREE OF CHARGE!!! This service is offered to ALL riders in the North San Diego County area. Call Rix Eden at 1-800-646-4749. MONDAYS PAID IN FULL M/M FAMILY BIKE NITE At Nick’s Super Burgers. Runs thru 1st Monday in November. 6-9 PM. Bike show, trophies, 50/50, DJ, freeze dance for children. 1712 W. Orangethorpe Avenue, Fullerton, CA 92833. Contact Pastor Jose at 714.231.0070 TUESDAYS TORO BAR & GRILL Bike Nights 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month. All-you-can-eat BBQ or Taco Bar, $5. Margaritas, $2.50 tap 1465 Rio Rancho Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124 • www.riorancho-inn.com FATBURGER In Carson, CA. great people, great food, drawing prizes, trophy for best bike and 50/50. Pass the word, everyone is welcome. 501 E. Albertoni St. #C, Carson, 90746. 310-225-5535. WEDNESDAYS MR. D’S BAR & GRILL, LAS VEGAS Free burgers and dogs, great drink specials, and our famous Wet T-Shirt contest. Wednesday is also ladies night they get $2 well drinks and domestic beers, $3 call drinks & imports. 1810 S Rainbow Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89146 BIKE NIGHT AT THE STARTING GATE! Every Wednesday, 6-9 PM, rain or shine, sponsored by Quick Throttle Magazine Offering $4 spaghetti dinners and drink specials, best bike trophy, raffles and prizes. 5052 Katella Los Alamitos 562-598-8957 contact Jim for special events 714 -350-0772 BIG DADDY’S SPORTS LOUNGE Happy Hour Prices on Well, Wine and Draft $1.00 Jello Shots - 1/2 price Burgers Free Raffles - Off track betting! 10618 N. Cave Creek Rd. Phoenix (Cave Creek and Peoria) 602-861-1034 www.bigdaddysaz.com ERIN’S SHEPPARDS $3.00 Jack Daniels - $3.00 Sailor Jerry Rum $2.50 Domestic Bottles 3114 E. Cactus Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85032 602-404-2300 LUCKY’S LOUNGE Bike Night every 2nd & 4th Wed. Bike Parking Provided, Food Specials $3 Draft Beer All Night, $1 7 oz. Beer w/Shot purchase. 9800 Montgomery NE Ste. 8 & 9 Albuquerque, NM 87111, 505-323-4490 CRUISE NIGHT IN EL CAJON El Cajon Blvd., Downtown THURSDAYS 215 SALOON Bike Night 4 PM-Midnight. Enjoy $10 domestic buckets, $5. Jagerbombs, Ladies 2-for-1 drinks 8Midnight, Lg. 1-topping pizza $8.99. Join us for our 2-year Anniversary in June - huge party, cash giveaways, drawings and more! 4145 S Grand Canyon Ave, Ste 109111 (West off I-215 & Flamingo). See us on Facebook at 215 Saloon NICANTONI'S Stop by the NE corner of Warner and McQueen. Every Thursday at 6:30 to enjoy Free Wings, $2 bottles and drafts, $2 off pitchers and $1 off wine and mixed drinks. 1430 W. Warner Rd. #136, Gilbert, AZ 85233 480-892-2234, www.nicantonis.com Check us out on Facebook! JIMMY D’s BAR & GRILL $2.00 Breakfast Special 7 Days a Week Daily Lunch Specials SPECIALS on Food and Drink Every Thursday Night for Bike Night 2017 E. Cactus Road, Phoenix, AZ 602-8670255 DIRTY DOGG SALOON Come see the Famous Dirty Dogg Girls do their thang! Enjoy LIVE MUSIC Weekly! $316oz Bud Light - Designated Bike Parking - Free raffles 10409 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85253 - - 480-368-8095 CRUISE NIGHT IN LA MESA Downtown La Mesa FRIDAYS CHESTER’S HD The 1st Friday of every month is Motorcycles on Main Bike Night in Downtown Mesa from 6pm – 10pm. Free and open to all bikers. Sturgis Style parking right on Main Street. 2 blocks of Main Street shut down just for bikers! Call 480894-0404 or www.chestershd.com VINTAGE BIKE NIGHT The 3rd Friday of every month is Vintage Bike Night in downtown Las Vegas. Come check out cool classic bikes - Cafe Racers, Custom Bikes, Classic Harleys, Retro Sport Bikes & Scooters. Jammin' line-up of live music, live body painting, artists and vendors, food and drink specials. Starts at 7pm. Located at The Arts Factory 107 E. Charleston Blvd. Presented by Las Vegas Dyno Tech 702.644.9412. Check out photos on facebook - facebook.com/LVDynoTech FRIDAY BIKER FELLOWSHIP Hosted by Bikers for Christ SVG • 7 PM, Starbucks-Eastland, 2620 E. Workman Ave. W. Covina, 91791 www.bikersforchris.org SATURDAYS ROADHOUSE BIKER CHURCH Meets every Saturday Night at 7pm. Join us on the first Saturday of every month for Spoke N Word with awesome guest musicians, guest speakers and food. Check out our website for rides, runs and more info. www.roadhousebikerchurch.org 255 W. Benedict, San Bernardino, CA. 92408. 909-889-7136 BLACK SHEEP SO. CAL REGIONAL BREAKFAST First Saturday of every month (rain or shine), 9am at Rosa Café & Tortilla Factory, 28134 Jefferson Ave. in Temecula, $7 includes breakfast, beverage, tax/tip and door prizes. 909-6002694 THE LIVE RIDE CELEBRATION SERVICE Every Saturday night @5:00pm, 6245 Sylvan Drive, Simi Valley, CA 93063, 805-306-0042. www.liveride.org. SUNDAYS The GASLAMP in LONG BEACH Join us every Sunday for live rock and blues bands! Best Bike Trophy, Killer BBQ, and Great Food and Drink specials, along with our gorgeous beer hostess on the patio. Raffles, 50/50, biker girl fashion shows, bike wash and chili cook offs and vendors will take the last Sunday of every month. Big outdoor patio and ample parking. BIBLE STUDY AT KENNEDY’S Every Sunday at 10:30, Kennedy’s Custom Cycles in Oceanside. This is a meeting in which relevant issues are discussed. We study the Bible in a relaxed and informal environment. All are welcome regardless of brand of bike (or no bike), or club affiliation (or lack of). [email protected] THE BIKER CHURCH Rushing Wind Ministries meets every Sunday at 10 a.m. at our new location: 4168 Avenida De La Plata suite 101, Oceanside, CA. 92054. Join us for rockin' worship music,street-level teaching by Pastor Z., and a lunch ride following every service. Call 760-940-0257 for more info. THE GARDEN, a church at 86th St. and McDonald in Scottsdale, AZ loves its bikers! Senior Pastor Gene James and Motorcycle Minister Rick Black conduct a “Bike Blessing” after service every second Sunday of every month. You will receive a decal, a patch, then ride off in our gorgeous weather on a random ride, then a bite to eat and fellowship at a restaurant chosen by the group. Service starts at 10AM, Bike Blessing follows. For more info, hit [email protected]. JULY 2012 JUNE JUNE 29-30 MESA, AZ For all motorcycle enthusiasts: the Downtown Mesa Association will be holding Motorcycle Mania June 29-30 during The Southwest Ambulance Arizona Celebration of Freedom. Motorcycle Mania will be replacing the usually scheduled July Motorcycles on Main and instead will be an extended two day weekend event. It will take place from 6 p.m to 10 p.m on Main St. from Robson to Country Club both nights. Contact Coral Email [email protected] JUNE 30 CARSON CITY, NV* LEGENDS OF THE WEST & CAR FEST - Downtown Carson City will thrill to the deep-throated vroom of motorcycle engines from 250cc to over 900cc and classic auto engines from 4 cylinder to giant V10s! Activities include: Sheriff's Motorcycle Agility Competition, Show & Shine, Live Entertainment, Miss Legends Contest, Raffles, Cruise Parade, Elk’s Breakfast, Awards, Vendors, Food and more…Benefits Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Chaps #1 & #7 and F.I.S.H. Contact Maxine at [email protected] or call 775.887.1294 SAN MARCOS, CA* BAD TO THE BONE TATTOO TOURNAMENT— Come see some amazing artwork as Tattoo Shops enter their best & the audience votes! BBQ & Live Music “Jimi Blaze” 1040 Los Vallecitos Blvd. #113. More info at www.biggsh-d.com or call 760-481-7300. SEE AD. LAS VEGAS, NV* HARLEY BIKE NIGHT at Las Vegas Sports Center Arena. Speedway motorcycle racing on 1/8 mike dirt bull ring oval. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., opening ceremonies at 7:30, racing starts at 8:00. Tickets $20 for adults, juniors, seniors and military $15, 5 and under free. Located at 121 E. Sunset Rd, Las Vegas NV next to McCarran International Airport. For more info call (702) 410-3675 or visit www.sincityspeedwaylv.com. Contact Sammy Tanner [email protected] or see www.sincityspeedwaylv.com or call (702) 410-3675. SIMI VALLEY, CA* Blessing of the Bikers, Benefiting Bikers, Start Time 12PM-4PM, Start Location Live Ride Church, Address 6245 Sylvan Dr., City Simi Valley, Cost Free, Add'l Info Live R&B/Rock Music by BFC Full Throttle Band. Free BBQ, Children Activities, Free Raffle prizes, Vendors,Celebrities, Celebrity MC MICKEY JONES. Bikers Rights will be discussed at this event. www.liveride.org Phone 805-306-0042 CORONA, CA* Summer Poker Run, starting at Rack's 1650 E 6th St, Corona through Elsinore and Ortega Hwy and finishing at Cook's Corner. $25 per rider, $15 for passenger, $300 high hand, 50/50, great music food and drinks. Contact Doug Wilson at [email protected] or call 213 605 2982 SHINGLE SPRINGS, CA* Presented by American Legion Riders Post 119 Benefits Veterans and the American Legion and other Veteran’s Programs. Ride with us through the Beautiful Mother Lode Gold Country, ending at the New American Legion Hall in Shingle Springs. High/Low hand awards, Raffle and 50/50 Live Music, Vendors, Chapter Challenge. Run pins to first 200 $20 Registration per rider $30 two up Includes tri-tip BBQ lunch Registration 9-11:00am American Legion Hall - 4561 Greenstone Rd Raffle 50/50 at 3:00 Contact Harland Dains [email protected] or call 530.622.0938 JULY JULY 1 IRVINE, CA* 15th ANNUAL RIP’S B.A.D. RIDE Bikers Against Diabetes. Presented by American Diabetes Association. RIDE WITH GROUP RIDES STARTING AT 7 locations. START SITE RIDERS GET FREE DOORAG Ride from 1) Bartels H-D Marina Del Rey, 2) Los Angeles H-D of Anaheim in 25 Fullerton, 3) Del Amo Motorsports Redondo Beach, 4) Westminster H-D – Westminster, 5) Swallows Inn -San Juan Capistrano, 6) Biggs H-D- San Marcos, 7) Berts Mega Mall –Covina, CA – Culminates on The Orange County Great Park- Irvine, CA (Former El Toro Marine Base) $20 Minimum Donation includes Admission to Event & Concerts, Commemorative Ride Pin, Drink Ticket, Free Water, FREE PARKING - 3 KILLER BANDS – “Z” ZZ TOP Tribute Band, Keston and The Rhythm Killers, and the Full Throttle Band. Gourmet Food Trucks by Food Smack Down of The Food Network. Chapter Challenge, Free Health Screening with MD’s. 10am- 3pm - 6950 Marine Way Irvine, CA 92618 - Off Sand Canyon at the 5 & 405 Fwy’s. Look for the big, orange balloon! www.BADRIDE.com JULY 7 BALDWIN PARK, CA* 77th STREET TRIBUTE RIDE-- Starts at Laidlaw’s Harley 1919 Puente Ave. - 9-11 AM Reg. $45 Rider/$50 Couple on Same Bike, PRE Reg- $35/40 Couple same bike. Ride to Original Mike’s- 100 S. Main St. Santa Ana. Tribute Ride for Fallen Police Officers. All bikes & hot rods welcome. More info 213-473-4827, 77thtributeride.com or laidlawsharley.com 626-851-0412 SEE LAIDLAW’S AD. SAN MARCOS, CA* BIGGS HARLEY-DAVIDSON 1st SATURDAY SWAP MEET- 10 AM – 3 PM--Plus BBQ & Live Music “Froghead”, come sell or buy, enjoy the fresh air with us! 1040 Los Vallecitos Blvd. #113. More info atwww.biggsh-d.com or call 760-481-7300. ARROYO GRANDE, CA* For the Hell of it Run Presented by the Gold Coast Wheelers MC Benefits Childrens' Resource Network BBQ & Brew, music, raffle Arrive @ Bernard's Specialty Cycle 1506 A Railroad Ave. Oceano Ca.10am Kickstands up @ 11am. Admission $15 Gates open 11am at Biddle Regional Park 3500 Lopez Dr. Arroyo Grande Ca. Info: Bernard 805-481-7001 Event is 6 miles out of Arroyo Grande on the way to Lopez Lake @ Biddle Regional Park. Entrance into park is free for motorcycles. 27 JULY 2012 Contact Scott Wetmore 805-440-1125 LAKE ELSINORE, CA Come celebrate Independence Day with us. July 1st Pancake breakfast and pulled pork dinner, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th. We'll be lighting the grill every day. Dinner between 6-7pm! Food will be available for a donation. This event will be held at Missy's Lakeside Camping. 32310 Riverside Dr. Lake Elsinore, Ca. 92530. For more info call: Mumbles (951)375-2388 or visit us at www.grandfathersmc.com OCEANO, CA* The Hell of it BBQ a portion of the proceeds going to the Chidrens Resource Network, Helping local disadvantaged children with clothes & school supplies Meet at 10am at Bernards Specialty Cycle 1506 Railroad St. Oceano CA. 93445 Leave at 11am for a senic ride to Biddle Park lopez Dr. in rural Arroyo Grande near Lopez Lake for the best central coast BBQ brew & music free coffee & donuts dinner tickets 15.00 at the event. Call Bernards 805-489-7001 or TT 805-478-9084 for more info. Contact Bernard Duque Email [email protected] JULY 8 TUCSON AZ* STONED SOBER MC Presents the Nineteenth Annual Cycle Splash. Noon to 6PM, $10.00 donation at the door, Live Music, Tattoo contest, AZ Best Wet T-shirt contest, Super raffle items all day, .25 cent drafts, cheap food, Air conditioned & Outside Patio. The River’s Edge 4635 N. Flowing Wells Road. Tucson AZ. FMI Bull 520-336-0150. JULY 13-15 KLAMATH FALLS, OR - RIP CITY RIDERS – 5th Annual SUMMER FUN RUN AND FESTIVALVETS PARK - Largest Bike Rally in Southern OR – Bike Show & Games, Live Bands, Poker Run, Vendors, Spectacle of Bikes Parade, Benefits SOYSC – Southern OR Youth Sports Connection 541-497-3978 www.ripcityridersoregon.com SEE AD! SALEM / KEIZER, OR* GOOD VIBRATIONS—MUSIC, MOTORCYCLES, MALT & MERLOT – Join us for Live Entertainment, Food, Music, Ride-In Shows, Poker Runs & Walks, Bike Competition, Stunt Shows, Beverages & More. Register at www.roadshowsreno.com or email [email protected] SEE AD! 7TH ANNUAL HEELS & WHEELS RIDE Presented by Ventura HarleyDavidson. Benefits The Breast Center, Community Memorial Hospital of San Buenaventura. Unique signature event for lady motorcycle enthusiasts. All types of bikes welcome. Proceeds will be donated to The Breast Center, Community Memorial. $25 pre-registered. Sign in 9 am. Ventura Harley-Davidson, 1326 Del Norte Rd. Camarillo, CA Donna Buchalter 805.644.8588, [email protected] JULY 19-22 GRANTS NM* 12TH ANNUAL FIRE & ICE BIKE RALLY. Poker run, biker rodeo, contests, prizes, tours, bike/car show, concerts, vendors, and lots more. Grants, NM 800.550.3573, www.fireandicebikerally.com KINGMAN AZ* Operation Help A Vet - Live Music, Entertainment, Bike Show, Slow Race, Burnout Competition, 50/50 drawing, Food - Hog Heaven, Shopping, *Veteran Resources* Noon to 10:00pm - MOHAVE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS. Mark your calendar for this HUGE EVENT...sponsored by KVMT-Kingman Veterans Memorial Trust...We Honor Those Who Served...P.O. Box Kingman, AZ 86402-3354. JULY 21 SAN MARCOS, CA* BIGGS CREW RIDE – Starts at Biggs H-D 9 AM. Enjoy BBQ and Live Music from The Last Call. 1040 Los Vallecitos Blvd. #116 More info: 760-481-7300 or www.biggshd.com SEE AD. MONTCLAIR, CA* 2nd Annual SUMMER MADNESS at Hwy 66 Choppers, Bike & Hot Rod Show, benefiting "There is Hope Foster Family". $10 Bike entry, $20 Car entry. Find us on Facebook or call, we'll mail you registration. Ride-in's & Spectators are free admission. Contact Chris Stevens or Clint LeGrant at [email protected] or Phone 909-229-0282 TUCSON AZ* HELLS ANGELS TUCSON PRESENTS HOT JULY NITE. With the Tucson Red and White. Starts at 8.00 PM Tucson Clubhouse 2819S. 12th AVE. Live Music, hot Babes, Cool Bikes, Food, Cool Friends, Hot Times. Donation $15.00. For More Info [email protected]. JULY 14 SAN MARCOS, CA* BLACK SHEEP DOWNED BIKER FUNDRAISER 12-3 PM at Biggs Harley-Davidson. BBQ & Live Music-- Beatles Tribute Band – 1040 Los Vallecitos Blvd. #116 More info: 760-481-7300 or www.biggshd.com SEE AD. 4TH ANNUAL FREEDOM COALITION FEST 2012 Presented by The Roque Center Inc. a Non profit Organization. Benefits The Roque Center Drug & Alcohol Recovery Center for Men, Women, and Children. Live music on two stages, bike show, vendors, kids zone, camping and fishing, fun for the whole family and more, drawing for a Harley-Davidson Road King. $15 advance or $20 at gate. Gates open 8 am. Irvine Lake, 4621 Santiago Canyon Rd. Silverado, CA Flagman Frank 714.745.0948, www.freedomcoalitionfest.com, [email protected] PHOENIX AZ* POW / MIA Fund Raiser. Vietnam / Legacy vets MC raising funds for POW / MIA plaque at 7:00 P.M.at the American Legion Post 107 - 20001 N. Cave Creek in Phoenix. Door prizes, 50/50, music. $5.00 donation all are welcome contact AJ 480-298-8961 or Jack Sh-tt at 623-2384937. 7 CARD POKER RUN Presented by H.O.G. chapter 1665. 200 mile run through Angeles forest. $5 tri-tip lunch, best/worst hand winners, raffle, 50/50, all bikes/riders welcome. $20/hand. Register 7:30–9:30 am. Antelope Valley Harley-Davidson, 1759 W Ave J-12. Lancaster, CA Don Smith 661.331.2139, [email protected] CHANDLER AZ* DTMC Verde Valley Bikini Bike Wash at Tukees Sports Bar - 4804 E Chandler Blvd (NW Corner or 48th and Chandler - The Old Hooters) 11:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M. Come on out and get your bike washed and show your MC support. We will have music, lots of fun times and of course drink and food specials with the hot bikini Tukee girls washing your scooter. For more info contact NateDogg at 951-712-5021. OXNARD, CA* Smokin BBQ Charity Event Benefits Arc of Ventura. Arc dedicated to improving the lives of those with developmental disabilities. American Legion Post 48 2639 Wagon Wheel Dr. Oxnard CA $25PP/40PC. Raffles Music Food 50/50 & More. Hosted by Forming So Cal Sisterz of Leather & Lace, MC Contact Suzi - Q at [email protected] LOS ANGELES, CA LAPD Elysian Police Academy to LAPD Manchester Police Academy Motorcycle Run. Ending at a ride-in Car & Bike Show. Family Event, Live Music, Prizes, Food Trucks, Vendors, T-shirt with sign up. Contact Officer Baca at [email protected] KINGMAN AZ* Operation Help A Vet - Live Music, Entertainment, Bike Show, Slow Race, Burnout Competition, 50/50 drawing, Food - Hog Heaven, Shopping, *Veteran Resources* Noon to 10:00pm - MOHAVE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS. Mark your calendar for this HUGE EVENT...sponsored by KVMT-Kingman Veterans Memorial Trust...We Honor Those Who Served...P.O. Box Kingman, AZ 86402-3354 JULY 15 29 JULY 2012 JULY 22 CALABASSAS, CA* LOS ANGELES CALENDAR MOTORCYCLE SHOW & Concours d’ Elegance - 2012 LA Calendar Motorcycle Show continues its 21-year tradition on as the premier outdoor streetbike event in America with top Celebrity Builders, the upscale Calendar Bike Building Championship & Concours d' Elegance at a new location the Calabasas Country Club. Includes Top Name Builders, selected Vendors and Exhibitors, live Calendar Girl Music, premier of the new 2013 FastDates.com Calendars. $20 Admission, $30 Admission with Lunch, Free Parking. Pre Purchase Tickets on FastDates.com. SEE AD! JULY 26 SAN MARCOS, CA* BIGGS HARLEY-DAVIDSON LAST THURSDAY BIKE NIGHT at COOL HAND LUKE’S– 5-8 PM 110 Knoll Rd., More info- (760) 752-3152 or call Biggs, 760-481-7300 or visit www.biggshd.com SEE AD. JULY 28 BALDWIN PARK, CA* CENTURY ROLLING THUNDER BENEFIT RIDE— Laidlaw’s Harley-Davidson, 1919 Puente Ave. Save the Date for More Info TBA, check www.laidlawsharley.com or 626-851-0412. SEE LAIDLAW’S AD. STOCKTON, CA*Presented by Too Much Fun Club. Benefits Stockton Summer Swim League. Food, Live Music, and Too Much Fun. Hi/Low Hand Awards, 50/50, and Raffles. $25 per person. Includes T-shirt, Lunch, & Poker Hand. Sign in 9am-11am Eagle’s Nest Harley Davidson 13900 Harlan Rd, Lathrop CA 95330 Camping, RV Spots & Cottages Available @ Windmill Cove. Call (209) 948-6995 Contact Brian at [email protected] MAYER AZ* Veterans Appreciation Day. Join Grand Canyon HarleyDavidson of Mayer in celebrating some of the men and women who have fought for our country with a special BBQ lunch in their honor! Harley's Heroes® will be here to assist. Free giveaways! Starts Noon - 4:00 P.M. For more information: www.grandcanyonhd.com CRESTLINE MOUNTAIN RUN (FORMERLY "RUN TO THE SPRINGS") Presented by Soldiers for Jesus MC, Inland Empire Chapter. Benefits Soldiers for Jesus, Costa Rica Chapters. Beat the heat! Get on your bikes and enjoy a cool day by the lake. Live music, great food, vendors, raffle, 50/50. $15 donation/person. Starts 11 am. Crestline Chamber of Commerce Facility, 24385 Lake Dr. Crestline, CA Big Red 951.378.7796, www.soldiersforjesusmcie.com, [email protected] LAKE ARROWHEAD CLASSIC CAR & MOTORCYCLE SHOW Presented by GRS Foundation & The Lake Arrowhead Village Merchants. Benefits Gavin R. Stevens Foundation (cure for childhood blindness). The hottest rods and bikes in the San Bernadino Mountains on beautiful Lake Arrowhead. Join us for this great cause, every child deserves to see a sunset. Spectators free, $25/bike entry. Starts 9 am. Lake Arrowhead Village, 28200 Hwy 189. Lake Arrowhead, CA Jennifer Stevens 877.625.6505, www.lacrods.com, [email protected] AUGUST AUGUST 4 BALDWIN PARK, CA* RIDE FOR AUTISM—Join Grand Marshal Dean McDermott and hundreds of your fellow riders at Laidlaw’s Harley, 1919 Puente Ave. in Baldwin Park, CA for a beautiful city, coast and canyon ride out to the Sagebrush Cantina in Calabasas, CA. Benefits Local Organizations that Help Kids & Families Affected by Autism. Live entertainment by Rebellious Blues, free Breakfast & Lunch with Registration- $30 til July 31, $35 Aug. 1-4. Pins and T-shirts TBA. For more info or to register visit www.rideforautism.org or call 1-321-3AUTISM. Or Laidlaw’s: 626-851- 0412, www.laidlawsharley.com MAYER, AZ Vietnam Vets / Legacy Vets MC MONSOON MADNESS Sat. Aug. 4th, 2012 Noon to 4PM Smokin Harleys Bar & Steakhouse 11255 Hwy. 69, Mayer, Az Next To Mayer Harley Davidson $5 donation. Music, raffles, 50/50 etc. Contact PJ Email [email protected] NATIONAL CITY, CA* Rosarito Beach Harley Run Benefiting the kids of Rosarito Beach California. Registration will be at Sweetwater Harley Davidson in National City, CA 91950. 9AM to 11:30 AM. escorted Ride by Federal Police, wristband entry to private party, Lunch Plate, Drink Specials, wet t-shirt contest, raffles, 24 hr. secured parking and Admission: $25 Contact Martin El Jefe Email [email protected] AUGUST 11 PRUNEDALE, CA* Patriots M/C 17th Annual Summer Run.Benefits 24th Palo Alto Veterans Hospital event.Sign in at American Legion Post #593 on 8300 Prunedale North Rd. 10am-12noon.Donation $15 includes 5stop hand (hi&low),BBQ meal,Live Band,Rider Reward ticket.Door prizes,50/50,Rider Reward prize.Vendors welcome,no fee,contact Frank.Also,Facebook. Contact Frank at [email protected] AUGUST 25 BALDWIN PARK, CA* LAIDLAW’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE—Come enjoy our annual Open House Party- Food, Drinks, Music, Fun! Prizes, Vendors, Raffles, Lots of great people and Quick Throttle Magazine too- 1919 Puente Ave., more info call 686-851-0412, or visit www.laidlawsharley.com SEE AD. 31 JULY 2012 Montclair, CA* Wings of Eagles Bike & Car Show, presented by Youth Helpers a 501(c)(3) organization. Proceeds of this event go to sending children to summer camp at Laurel Pines Camp. Great family event, food, live music, vendors, beer garden. Cost to enter bikes in show is $15, cars $20. General admission FREE. Event held at Pomona Valley Harley Davidson, 8710 Central Ave, Montclair, CA. Come out and enjoy another great event! Contact Lucky at [email protected] SALINAS, CA* MONTEREY BAY H.O.G. Presents it's 14TH ANNUAL THUNDER BY THE BAY POKER RUN. Ride the scenic California Central Coast. Visit famous Cannery Row and stop at the world renown Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca. $20.00 pre-registration and $25.00 day of event. Price includes run pin to the first 250, tri-tip and chicken BBQ and poker card. 50/50 and door prizes. Silent auction. A hand made Harley theamed Quilt will be raffled or auctioned off. Continue to check the website for updates. Contact Gary Deaton at [email protected] AUGUST 26 LOS ANGELES, CA* BLACK JACK Run fundraiser to benefit HOG MEMBERS who crash their bikes in Southern California and are hospitalized. Register at each participating Southern California Harley-Davidson Dealership and ends at Griffith Park in Los Angeles for a Rally with Rockin' Live Music by 2AZZ1, Lots of Vendors, Food Vendors, Door Prizes. Chapter Challenge! $25 rider $15 passenger 9am - 10am Contact Don Wiseman at [email protected] SAN DIEGO, CA 4th annual Ronald McDonald House San Diego (RMHSD)Charity Poker Ride. $20 P/P. Registration at Ronald McDoald House, 2929 Childrens Way, SD CA @ 8:30am. All proceeds to the RMHSD. Online registration and info www.rmhpokerride.com Contact PJ Byrne Email [email protected] SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 7-8 REDMOND, OR* RUN TO THE CASCADES MOTORCYCLE RALLY $15/Day, $25/Weekend. $5/night camping, Knights of Mayhem real metal Jousting, concerts, poker runs, tattoo expo, vendors, party Thursday, more. Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center. 3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond, OR 97756 Info: Aaron 541-550-6845, www.runtothecascades.com SEE AD. SEPTEMBER 7 LANCASTER, CA* Presented by Lifestyle Rider. This 3-day event is an "Old School Run" to the Kern River in So Cal. No entry fees,No Vendors,just ride & party along the River.Tent camping is preferred but support vehicles are welcome.All Bikes are welcome.ADULTS ONLY. Calkins Flats campground is not a pay or state park camping area. McNallys General store & restaurant 1 mile away. If you cannot make the ride out from Lancaster HD then just ride to the campground anytime. More info Contact Red Dog http://www.lifestylerider.com OR Phone 661-3730347 SEPTEMBER 8 San Marco, CA* 3rd Annual Indian Summer Poker Run. Chapter Challenge. Biggs Harley Davidson 1040 Vallecitos Blvd #113, San Marcos Ca. 92069. Start Time 8:00am. Cost $25.00 Rider/$20.00/passenger.PreRegister by 9-8-12 @ www.Biggshog.com or mail to P.O. Box 610 San Marcos Ca 92079 save $5.00. Event pin for the first 300. $250 High Hand $100 Low Hand. Last bike out by 9:30 lunch from 10:300am to 1:30pm. Prizes/Raffle @ 2:30 Contact Bill Eldridge Email [email protected] or Phone 760-535-4316 GLENDALE, CA* WILDLIFE POKER RUN The poker run starts at Glendale Harley Davidson, 3717 San Fernando Rd., Glendale CA. Pre-registration$20.00 Rider, $15.00 Passenger.Day of the event - $25.00 Rider, $20.00 Passenger. The fee includes lunch, poker hand and a commemorative pin. Cash prize of $150 will be awarded for high and $50 for low hand. The ride ends with live band, vendors, food and major prize raffles to benefit the charity, Wildlife Waystation. All Bikes are Welcome! Contact Cardo Email [email protected] SEPTEMBER 14 KERNVILLE, CA* 24th Annual Golden State Rendezvous State Run!!! ALL Motorcyclists Welcome! Scenic Location on the Kern River! Live Entertainment by Steelgrave, and Elmer Time. Bike & People Games, Vendors, Harmon Memorial Ride. Awards. Pre-Reg. Price $30 single, $40 couple. 13-17 $ $10, & under 12-$5. RV’s extra $10.00. Deadline 8/15/2012, RV’s extra $10.00. After deadline Singles $40, Couples $45. Contact [email protected] SEPTEMBER 14-16 COTTONWOOD, AZ* 12th Thunder Valley Rally, Sept 14, 15, 16 Old Town Cottonwood, AZ Sponsored by: Cliff Castle Casino Hotel, & the City of Cottonwood. Over $4,000 in prize money for the Poker Run, and over $2,000 for the KA Cycles Bike Show (Call KA Cycles for all your cycle needs @(928.634.1364) Three days of the best bike builders AZ has to offer, vendors, live music and Old Town charm. Contact Hezekiah Allen at [email protected] LEGGETT, CA* FRYED BROTHERS 32-YEAR ANNIVERSARY PARTY IN THE REDWOODS. More info to come. Save the Date! Call Barb Fryed at 707824-4861. SEPTEMBER 19-23 RENO, SPARKS & VIRGINIA CITY, NV--- STREET VIBRATIONS FALL RALLY- 18TH Annual Music, Metal & Motorcycle Festival—Tours, live entertainment, Ride In Shows & Bike Competitions, Stunt Shows, Rides to Lake Tahoe, Poker Walks & Runs, America’s Finest Custom Bike Builder Expo, Tattoo Expo, BIKE DRAWING for a 2012 H-D “72”, tickets $5 w/% of proceeds to NV Diabetes Assn. for their Juvenile Diabetes Camp. Register at www.roadshowsreno.com, at Reno Ballroom 4th & Center, or at Downtown Sparks Street Vibrations HQ. SEE AD. SEPTEMBER 22 SIERRA VISTA AZ* POW-MIA Memorial Run. The ride will start is at Southern Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1300 Buffalo Soldier Trail in Sierra Vista. Registration begins at 8:00 am and the motorcycles go out at 9:00 am. If you pre-register the fee is $20.00 pre-rider. The ride ends with a 50/50, silent auctions, give a ways, live music, bike contest and vendors. For more information call visit http://si.azvfwriders.com/ OCTOBER OCTOBER 6 Santa Ana, CA* 6th Annual Downed Biker Rally. To benefit So Cal riders who go down and need assistance. Smokin’ Live Music, Food by Five Loaves and Two Fish Bike Show, Tons of Vendors, Prize Drawing and 50/50. This years DBR will be held at Church of the Nazarene 1500 E. 17th Street. Vendors Call Monika or Natascha Fletcher at 562692-6369 or E-mail [email protected] Contact Pastor Tom [email protected] 32 JULY 2012 STORY/PHOTOS BY RANDY TWELLS San Marcos, CA May 19, 2012-- Ten years ago, 105.1 KGB Radio personality Clint August and friend Marc Baluch decided they should start a ride to help military families who are hanging in there while their active duty husbands & fathers and in some cases moms & wives, were away fighting the bad guys. The first ride had one rider and 40 people at the After Party!! No place to go but up! But Richard Lillibridge owner of Biggs Harley-Davidson, was happy to host the event and help it grow. I remember being there on Coast Hwy. mid-2000’s in Oceanside where the store was then, and the check presentation to Home Front San Diego. Masses of riders came including many 3-piece patch club members, Rockola played, the bikini models kindly posed around a Sportster for me---good times then and in the years since. And here we are Ten Years into it and stronger than ever. California Senator Joel Anderson also became aware of the good done by this event, and wrote a Resolution to draw special public attention to the May Ride, presenting a specially framed copy of it to Clint and Richard at this year’s event, in a special ceremony. The Resolution acknowledges that as of 2011, The May Ride had grown to 500 ride participants and nearly 2,000 after-party attendees. Many events donate a portion of proceeds but The May Ride donates 100% to the cause, as Sen. Anderson also points out. The first year event raised $1800 for Home Front San Diego, and every year the bar has been raised so that 2011’s event raised $11,000, and 2012’s goal was $12,000. That’s a chunk of change in 10 years. What do your donations accomplish? Home Front San Diego’s role in support is to give practical assistance to the families of deployed troops. So donations pay for needed items like furniture, supplies and food, or any services or products whatsoever. Anything a family would need. And they accept donated items, merchandise or services too. If you check Home Front’s website www.home- JULY 2012 frontsandiego.org, in the FAQ’s or other tabs you can find out more, and volunteers are always welcome too. Meantime, at this year’s May Ride, the scenic poker run gave everyone a chance to see the countryside and stop at spots that were more than willing to donate some space to pull cards and stamp a poker run sheet. Back at Biggs, where the ride ended, the party got going around Noon. Bands included pro-wrestler Chuck Palumbo’s 3 Spoke Wheel, Josh Damigo, Studio 8, Trinity, & Circle 7 (formerly ‘Six Reasons’). 3 Spoke Wheel’s Josh Martindale flitted around shirtless singing to the ladies, and the Guns N Buns contest was won by Circle of 7’s drummer. Guns N Buns came about because a few years ago after having bikini contests, Clint was approached by a couple gals who asked if there could be a contest that the ladies would enjoy too! So, enter Guns N Buns. A contest of pushups, back views to audience, and muscle flexing provides a counter to the usual bikini contest and results in a winner chosen by audience applause. And, the Hooter’s Raffle Girls still get their share of attention and sell a LOT of raffle tickets! Another female force of nature, Dawn Matthews of So Cal Custom Cycle was one of two gals from the shop doing nerves-of-steel burnouts on their AHDRA Drag bikes, and Rome & Randi 2UP Stunts did a gravity-defying motorcycle stunt show. A Bike Show and Car Show displayed examples of beautifully restored vintage cars, and bikes from crotch rocket camo craziness to ultra chromed rolling temples of artwork with engraving and graphics on every square inch. A wide variety of vendors, gourmet food vendors, Clint’s Bikes and Babes, and the inflated jump house for the kids provided plenty of entertainment for everyone. The strong patriotic message of the May Ride however was emphasized with the help of The Flag Man (www.theflagman.org) Albert Kapitanski who carries on his decorated WWII vet father Alex’s volunteerism providing displays of large numbers of flags for civic and other events to honor our nation and those who protect it. The street adjacent to Biggs H-D was lined with flags on both sides for this occasion, a very impressive visual reminder of what this day was all about. San Diego Chargers Center Nick Hardwick also made an appearance and sat down to visit with battle wounded Cpl. Michael Fox and other vets both active and retired here today, who all in attendance including Nick, applauded as the real stars of the event. They let us all, young and old alike, rub elbows with them and take our photo with them, and feel as though we could share their perspective a little bit, and they let us try, in our well meaning yet sometimes clumsy way, to honor them, knowing that we can never, ever, really adequately repay them for their contributions to this nation, which we know, in spite of their modesty, is over and above the call of duty. *** See this story reprinted in our complete digital format magazine, at www.quickthrottle.com and, more photos from the May Ride 2012 at http://quickthrottle.com/media-archive/2012-photo-gallery/ 33 34 JULY 2012 35 JULY 2012 Pics by Janelle on the street side of the structure. One A peaceful river walk setting at the Pioneer Hotel belies the hub of activity reflects “Old West” simpler times. Pioneer the town, g gamblin 1964 ’s Laughlin of the early additions to Don Dan Montanaians Norma Jean and EZ . stage oke kara eer Pion the ruled Break time for Turning Headz boutique owners Tammy Wallace and Tim Kon sella. Havasu’s Turtle Grill offered water front bike parking and a tropical beach side pub. I tried the theory that getting hit by a bird brings you luck but Lady Luck was not with me at the blackjack table that night. Lewis and Taylor rushing off magazine. to read Quick Throttle Bikes lined up at Pirate’s Cov e Resort. Bikers and boaters partied together enjoying the sun, sand and music. 36 JULY 2012 Little people Kiss tribute band rocked large at the Tropicana. The band stood tall in silver platform shoes, wowing the crowd with a big performance. Fans snapped photos at the stage and sang along to Kiss’ hits. Pics by Janelle ic masal Works built this labor-of-love Goth Blacksmith Joe Hardin/Hardin Met lines. ead the scratch-built frame on knuckleh terpiece from ground-up, including els, whe ed spok t ched wood-sheathed bille Artfully forged sheet metal, grain-mat er kick eed 6-sp er Bak S&S retro-shovel/ braided leather line covers grace this Randy Twells. by o Phot . rider daily y Frankentrann Two guys in a column of about 20 bikes, riding the desert wind. Photo by Randy Twells. A-Team Motorcycles at Lau ghlin River Run 2012 had this red beauty on display—a 2009 Arlen Ness V-L iner. Built with a Victory 106 ”, it’s the last one available—#8 of only 14 prod uced and sitting on the showro om floor at A-Team in Las Vegas, as we speak. Pho to by Randy Twells. During Laughlin River Run 2012, our hard working Bullhead City Fire fighters seem to be avid ‘readers’ of Quick Thro ttle Magazine’s April issue—especia lly the ‘articles’! Photo by Randy Twells. JULY 2012 37 38 JULY 2012 Another year has gone by to mark this Memorial Day, May 28, 2012. Our finest and bravest have once again, made the ultimate sacrifice in insuring that Liberty and Freedom continue to reign in the greatest country this world has ever known! Since last years event, more of our brothers, sisters, fathers and even young mothers have fallen and given their life's blood in service to our country. This is what the RidersUSA "Flags for Our Fallen" event is all about! It is a tribute to those real American heroes who have fought for our nation in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan and in many other conflicts too numerous to mention, who are no longer with us in body but certainly in spirit. It goes without saying that we also honor and give tribute to those who have served and are serving. Those who have seen and confronted the evil in this world and have lived to tell about it. It is through them that their message can finally be understood. The message is this: that it is our Patriotic duty to pass on their experiences to ensuing generations so that history will not repeat itself. Confronting evil and tyranny long before it is allowed to grow and fester is to benefit from those experiences and save lives. We ignore these signals at our own peril! I am proud to have stood next to fellow Veterans and non-Veterans alike who woke in the wee hours of Monday morning, to line up their 200 spitshined Motorcycles next to 160 American Flags. Those Flags flapping in the morning breeze with Bikers who stood as virtual honor guards along Cave Creek Road for over 1/2 mile leading to the entrance of the Phoenix National Memorial Cemetery. Bikers from a number of organizations stood as one cohesive unit as they saluted or waved to those drivers and passengers on their way to visit with loved ones interred in the cemetery or to attend the ceremony honoring those heroes who had passed on. Others held signs that read, "We will Never Forget", "God Bless Our Vets" or "Thank You Vets". It was a sight to behold. A squadron of Bi-Planes flew overhead against a bright blue sky to suddenly break into a "missing man" formation. The Red, White and Blue overwhelmed the senses. The camaraderie among both Veteran's and non-Veterans alike was apparent everywhere you looked. It was a fine day to be an American! Vince Ansel RidersUSA JULY 2012 39 40 JULY 2012 42 JULY 2012 BY IRISH FLAME • PHOTO'S BY FLAME AND VIC TRUJILLO Hawthorne Nevada, known lovingly throughout the State as “America's Patriotic Home.” As you drive the 95 corridor into Hawthorne you see that there is a strong military presence here. One sign says “Underwater Military Installation” in the middle of the desert. What? Oh yeah, Walker Lake is right here. One of the deepest lakes in the State. There are many unique histories and mysteries in Nevada, this is one of them, so worth exploring. There is an active Army Depot, large storage buildings and strange bunkers dotted through out the surrounding city. All branches of the Military come here for Desert training, Cool! As you enter Hawthorne, you see red, white and blue decorations, flags, buildings and some people are dressed up and even painted with patriotic colors. Beautiful! Armed Forces Weekend kicked off Thursday with a rocking outdoor concert by Country Western Star John Michael Montgomery. The well attended Concert was hosted by Buck Hall, owner of the popular Barley's Sport's Bar and the new Refinery restaurant. Opening for JMM was the crowd pleasing Jason King Band. The weekend was filled with music, events and hometown activities like Barley's richest Chili cook-off, a VFW Rib cook-off, Elks lodge pancake breakfast, Miss Armed forces pageant, the Second Amendment Steele Plate & Sniper Qualifier, the 52nd Walker Lake, High Desert Juried Art Show (A very honored yours-truly was asked to be a judge) and even The Nevada Gunfighter's were causing a ruckus at the Veteran's memorial park for the crowds enjoyment. The El Capitan Casino hosted an exciting Friday night fireworks display and the people enjoying all the days events drift up and down the main street supporting the local bars, vendors and music scene late into the evening. Saturday started with a local favorite, the “Fireman’s Water fight” held in the center of town, Wet and wild fun to watch! The crowd is now lining up along the long city sidewalks for the famous AFD Parade. What started as a small town event has grown into several thousand who come from all over to participate and honor our Armed Forces. JULY 2012 Armed Forces Day started in 1947 as Navy days and officially became Armed Forces Day, May 20,1950. Here in Nevada the largest and most attended AFD celebration is in Hawthorne. The opening ceremonies are filled with welcome, prayers and introduction of VIP'S, a spirit moving Battle Hymm of the Republic was sung by beautiful songbird Cassie Dore, the presentation of the flags and the history of the different American flags, American sacrifice and patriotism were also presented. The NAS Search and Rescue CH60 Helicopter did an impressive fly over and now, the parade was on! All branches of the military were represented in this colorful parade as well as, Police, Fire and EMS from several counties in the State. We see Flags, floats, horses, Military and civilian Vehicles and then, winding his way up the street, slithering in at 14 feet high, 75 foot long and blowing smoke out of his nose, is a black and gold, “CECIL” the serpent, a crowd favorite and local icon, scaring small children and dogs into losing all bodily functions. since the 1930's. What a site to see up close. Next, came a roaring thunder of bikes. A very special “Freedom Ride” is held by the much loved Iron Nation MC. Each year bikers, bike enthusiasts, Veterans, active servicemen and women come from across the nation to support this patriotic event and ride in. It was very moving to see a crowd cheer for many patches, one heart and three colors...Red, White and Blue. Ending the Parade with great anticipation is the presentation of the “Big Flag” being carried by locals, military and High school students. According to Dave Fergusen the big Flag's caretaker “This Big Flag is 30 x 60 feet and is known as the 10834 Eisenhower proclamation flag. It has precise measurements on how big the stars are to be as well as the stripes. “ the “Big Flag” is proudly escorted down the main street to the Veterans Memorial park where the flag is then passed over a fence where all of the bikers, Military and community have gathered to receive the “Big Flag” and assist with it being hoisted up onto the 115 foot flagpole. All of the servicemen and veterans are saluting it, civilians have there hands over their hearts, tears are flowing as freely as the giant flag is now waving. What a moment to be proud to be an American, love your country and honor our Military Armed Forces past and present, all in one great unforgettable weekend. Whew! The day continued with an impressive Military and civilian static airplane display at the Airport, hosted by Miss Betty Easley. Food, music and biker games carried on throughout the city and on a very cool note, one very patriotic local bar called Joe's Tavern had crazy Trike races and allowed bikers to not only drive through his bar but to park inside, sit a spell and have a drink. Now that is America! Thank you Hawthorne Nevada, for welcoming us and making us feel a part of “America's Patriotic Home” Dana Lee Fruend ( Irish Flame ) is a freelance writer and Owner of Anam Cara Tours in Carson City, NV. anamcaraspecialtytours.com 43 44 JULY 2012 JULY 2012 45 46 JULY 2012 JULY 2012 Bert’s Megamall, The worlds largest powersports showroom, in Covina has been in business for over 50 years ...but who is Bert? The original operation was a bicycle shop named “Bert’s bicycles” after its owner. In 1959 Ed Seidner purchased the shop and there wasn’t enough money in the till to change the sign. The name Bert’s has remained ever since. The small bicycle shop became the largest Schwinn bicycle dealer in California. In 1963, Ed expanded his business to include Yamaha Motorcycles. Ed became the largest Yamaha dealer in the United States. He then added to his product lineup, Kawasaki, Bultaco, BMW, AJS, and Triumph. As the motorcycle business grew, Ed’s sons Steve and Ron Seidner decided to follow in their father’s footsteps. In 1976, Bert’s suffered a major fire. They were forced to move across the street into their motorcycle salvage yard, lost all factory franchises, and then were forced to sell strictly used motorcycles, parts, and aftermarket accessories. Ed Seidner opened his own construction company, Steve Seidner went into the automobile industry and Ron took over the Motorcycle business. Bert’s remains a family run business, passionate about powersports. Ron say’s he’s a lucky man to be working closely with his family. Ron works with his wife Kim everyday at the shop, as well as four of his five children. His daughters Lisa and Brittany have been there 12 years, Amy for 10 years and his son Zachary has been working for 1 year at Bert’s. In fact the powesports family includes his employees; “I have great people”, Ron says, but two of them have been with Bert’s for 37 years, Bonnie Alva and Scott Webster. Recently Bert’s has added Triumph Motorcycles and though only several months into Triumph’s tenure, sales have rocketed. In fact Bert’s will carry the full line of Triumphs, from the powerful Rocket III touring to the new dual sport adventure bike, The Tiger Explorer. Classic Bonneville’s and Thunderbirds are big sellers. Looking good riding your motorcycle is always essential and Bert’s will carry Triumphs exceptional line of motor clothes for men and women. Below are just a few of the happy new Triumph owners, now part of the Bert’s family. http://www.bertsmegamall.com/ 47 JULY 2012 49 50 JULY 2012 52 JULY 2012 53 JULY 2012 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 05 be valid. Civil cases are pending in at least two other states that we are aware of and based on case law we expect that Nevada may also be looking at a similar fix as outlined above. CDC SAYS HELMETS LAWS SAVE TAXPAYERS BILLIONS: On the other side of the coin from the new Michigan law, sits the CDC (Center for Disease Control) who says that mandatory helmet laws save American taxpayers over $3.2 Billion dollars a year in addition to saving hundreds, perhaps thousands of lives. They provided state by state figures and argue that in a motorcycle accident not only are you more likely to suffer serious injuries and possible death if you are not using a helmet, but also that you will cost the taxpayers 4 times the money verses a helmeted rider in the same state in the same type of accident. Helmet use lowers risk by 42% in riders and 37% in passengers. One odd statistic that the CDC found was that even in states with universal helmet laws, 12% of fatally injured riders were not wearing a helmet at the time of their crash and subsequent demise. That’s a strange stat given how strongly states with helmet laws enforce those laws. MINNESOTA DEALER “SETTLES” ON LINE LAWSUIT WITH H-D: Well the announcement may say he settled but it looks more like Harley cleaned his clock. You may remember that St. Paul, MN. H-D sued Harley corporate saying their ban forbidding on line out of area sales was illegal. The dealer claimed he made $8 million in just two years with the website and refused to take it down nor comply with Harley’s edict and addition to his dealer franchise. As fast as it started is as fast as it ended, after a Federal Judge refused to hear the case and told both parties to settle. St. Paul H-D’s sales website is no longer active and in its place is an apology letter from the dealer hoping that no one is inconvenienced. Since the lawsuit was then dismissed with “Prejudice” by the court and cannot be filed again it looks for sure like the dealer simply was forced to settle and all on-line sales out of the basic marketing area or too a third party independent dealer, are finished. HARLEY SALES CONTINUE TO RISE: Up another 5% as demand bounces back with a vengeance. Great news for Harley and its dealers but not such great news for potential buyers as shortages have given rise to higher prices and according to several surveys, Harleys around the nation are now all selling at MSRP or above. Short version: There ain’t many deals out there, Bro! MORE GOOD M/C INDUSTRY NEWS: Using special software and surveying nearly 1400 motorcycle dealerships of all types nationwide, the firm ADP Lightspeed has concluded that all dealerships nationwide are up an average of 20% over the same period in 2011. Largest gains are in the Midwest where dealer increases average some 37%. The deep south lags behind with only a 4% overall sales increase. JAPANESE M/C SALES UP 6.7%: Contrast all our good news concerning the United States motorcycle market with the latest sales figures out of Japan and you’ll realize just how fast and how far the U.S. market has bounced back. As mentioned above, overall sales in our market have averaged a 20% jump with Harley leading the way, at times with upwards of a 30% increase while the overall Japanese market hovers at under 7%. Given all their other problems including last years quake and follow up tsunami, that’s still pretty good news. SAXON MOTORCYCLE UP FOR SALE TO A SAVIOR: Rumors have swirled for months that Saxon was in big trouble and needed an influx of cash that only a huge buy out could supply. Officials at Saxon never really admitted that until they posted the company as up for sale via their Twitter account. The Twitter post included a link to the Facebook account where they confirmed that indeed the company is very much available for sale. I guess they are looking for a social media devotee who will dump millions into a failing company in between playing games of “Words with Friends” and “Angry Birds” U.S. PATENT OFFICE APPEALS BOARD AGREES TO HEAR STURGIS TRADEMARK CASE: This is indeed very good news for the group, “Concerned Citizens for Sturgis” the group opposing those trademarks, and bad news for SMRI (Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc) who claims ownership. Many trademark and patent attorneys interviewed along with several States Attorney Generals agree with the Concerned Citizens group that the granting of those very same trademarks was an error and illegal. Most feel the case hinges on a simple concept: How can anyone be given a trademark covering the legally designated name of a geographical area like a town, city or region especially when vendors had been selling Sturgis and Black Hills items for almost 50 years, prior to the U.S. Trademark and Patent office granting the request made by the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce and then deeded over to SMRI? Trial should start this year but no decision is expected until early 2013 so you will still be paying higher merchandise prices for buying “Official Sturgis Rally” goods at this year’s event in August. Meanwhile in other Sturgis trademark related news, SMRI has added the nations largest retailer, Wal-Mart to its lawsuit claiming that Wal-Mart is selling “Official” Sturgis trademarked material illegally since the goods were not licensed by SMRI. Wal-Mart has countered as have so many others involved in the lawsuit by saying that the trademarks that SMRI holds are not valid and are contrary to existing trademark and patent laws. My money is on these trademarks being reversed and over turned. STALLION TRIKES TO RESUME PRODUCTION: On a much more positive note Thoroughbred Motorsports, parent company of the almost sports car like Stallion Trikes has announced an immediate resumption of production. The trikes are set to sell at an MSRP price of $33,995. Some may disagree but we always thought these were cool and very fun to ride. With the trike market still growing there would certainly seem to be a spot for these heavy but very stable, very fast motorcycles. FOOD FOR THOUGHT: It has just been revealed that in 2010 Harley-Davidson applied for and was granted a patent on a water cooled motor apparatus. Patents don’t mean they’ll be used or manufactured but it’s an interesting tid bit of info isn’t it? ANOTHER INTERESTING PIECE OF INFO: Long time sport bike builder and ex Harley alum, Eric Buell has begun signing up sport bike dealerships for his latest motorcycle building endeavor. Three models coming along with accessories and performance upgrades. Stay tuned. We’ll be back with more on this very soon. HARLEY-DAVIDSON RATED #1 IN PROSPECT SERVICE: According to industry survey leader, Pied Piper, Harley dealers were tops at giving prospective buyers the best service and education on products over their two wheeled competitors. Service was determined from a variety of criteria with Harley topping its nearest rivals BMW and Ducati. Congratulations to all the Harley dealers surveyed. It’s a well know fact that initial contact satisfaction is the key to growing sales and adding riders to the Harley tribe. GERBINGS SAYS “AMERICA FIRST!”: In a move that runs contrary to the entire U.S. Motorcycle industry, Gerbings Heated Clothing has begun moving all of its offshore product production back to the good old U.S. of A! Now all of its products will be produced in its new plant in Stoneville, North Carolina. While this will take almost 3 years to fully implement the Stoneville plant is already up and running and employing American labor in the first phase that covers 25,000 of an available 80,000 square foot plant. Not only will Gerbings make everything here but they intend to source all their raw materials here as well. Fabrics, buttons, zippers, snaps, wiring etc will all be made in the USA. When Gerbings says “Made in America” they mean from the ground up. Great news for riders as well as for the country. Lets hope more companies follow suit! SONS OF ANARCHY: Not only can you dress like an outlaw biker from this #1 rated TV show on FX, but thanks to a huge deal with Bartels HD of Marina Del Ray, California you’ll be able to ride like one as well. 20TH Century Fox, parent company of the FX Channel just signed a deal for Bartel’s to produce 100 Custom Harley-Davidson Motorcycles themed from “Sons” to be sold in Harley shops around the nation by late fall of this year. Given SOA’s worldwide popularity an avalanche of licensing deals is coming down the money slope as we speak. Mugs, clothes, board games, models, pajamas, and a ton of other stuff that will border on the silly to the ridiculous, but will sell in the tonnage area to viewers who are not even riders. Look for a great deal of it by October as “Sons of Anarchy, Season 5” begins in early September. HARLEY ANNOUNCES 110TH ANNIVERSARY PLANS: With 2013 just around the corner Harley-Davidson has begun the planning and process for celebrating its 110th Anniversary with a ride home to Milwaukee and a week long fun fest of activities. There will also be celebrations in other cities. The Motor Company also announced that they will be celebrating the 30th Anniversay of HOG at the same time. Start planning your trip by going to the Harley website and watch for timely announcements and news. 54 JULY 2012