NRR June 2014 - Northern Rockies Rider

Transcription

Serving Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, So. Dakota, B. C. and Alberta
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Northern Rockies Rider
Volume 3, Number 3 • June 2014 • A Continental Communications Publication • [email protected] • 406-498-3250
Becoming acquainted with a new baby:
KTM 1190 Adventure
Sam Park, owner of the featured 2014
KTM 1190 Adventure heading up the
Hell Canyon Road of the Highland
Mountains of southwestern Montana.
By Sam Park
Special to NR Rider
The Austrian builder KTMSportmotorcycle AG is largely known for
its ubiquitous orange dirt bikes as well as
the modern offerings of Husaberg and
Husqvarna; the latter being a brand the
company plans to drop after the 2014
model year.
KTM’s street and adventure bike
offerings are lesser known, but I took one
off the floor back in January, then started
looking for riding windows to get past
break-in mileage (600).
Starting back in the early 1990s,
after rising again from the smoke and
haze of financial trouble, KTM began
serious development of a new line of
street motorcycles, perhaps in homage
to their 1937 roots. However, “vintage”
or “throwback” are as far from KTM’s
“Ready to Race” design philosophy as one
can get.
The Duke line-up, RC8 Sportbikes,
and evolving Adventure bikes are the
result; they seem to be grabbing the
attention of the market in a big way.
Lessons learned from the legendary
KTM 690 and 990 Adventure bikes,
as well as the RC8-R superbikes, have
culminated in the new 1190 Adventure
line.
The 1190 Adventure debuted in
Europe with the 2013 model year, and are
available in the U.S. as of 2014. Imported
in two variants, the asphalt-tailored
Adventure, and the more off-road ready
Adventure R, both models have all the
performance and engineering KTM is
known for.
See KTM 1190, Page 2
A cold ride down a warm memory lane
You can keep bikes alive; you won’t have a say when it comes to a friend
Kirby Messer, when he was healthy, with
one of his earlier rides, a BMW.
By Ben Getz
NR Rider Contributing Writer
The wrench slips. Cold flesh and
sharp steel collide. The meeting is
not cordial.
The shiny chrome tool brashly
hits the work bench with far less
force and volume than the invisible
expletive that simultaneously
rebounds off the garage walls.
A brilliant crimson blob wells
up like a sanguineous tear as my
knuckle begins to weep. (Even as
I type these words nearly three
months after the event, the crinkly
red, one-inch scar stares back at
me.)
The stinging pain that follows
See Messer, Page 8
Change service requested: 914 Holmes Ave., Butte, MT 59701
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Permit No. 93
Livingston, MT
Part of the legacy
Kirby Messer left for
the final labor of love.
H.O.G. rallies
from around
the region
detailed.
Suzanne and
Charlie go for
first ride of
the season.
Page 12
Page 22
Northern Rockies Rider - 2
June 2014
KTM 1190
from page 1
drive the cams) common to KTM’s LC4
and LC8 engines provides a very robust
and compact drive system for the four
overhead camshafts.
These examples are only part of
The old contrasts with the new: 2014 high-tech KTM in historic Virginia City, Mont.
All the bells and whistles won’t guarantee the Adventure remains upright; it was dropped,
softly, this day.
Both models are propelled by KTM’s
75-degree, 1195cc LC8 V-twin; a tamed
version of the race-bred 173-horsepower
RC8 engine found in KTM’s superbike,
the 1290 Super Duke.
Building a claimed 150 crank HP
at 9,500 RPM and 91 pound-feet of
torque at 7,500 RPM (one magazine’s
the story when it comes to the magic
of achieving KTM’s stated 9,300-mile
service intervals. I’m not sure if I have
the brass to run a brand new $17,000
motorcycle that long between oil changes.
I may break down long before the oil
does… Valve clearance checks are only
needed every
18,600 miles.
Another
key aspect
of building
this 150HP V-twin
involves dual
ignitions, each
firing one of
the two plugs
per cylinder.
Ignition
timing
between the
two plugs, as
well as the
duration and
timing with
respect to
the crank, is
variable and
optimized
The 1190 Adventure parked near an old cabin along Montana’s Jefferson
River.
dyno run showed a maximum 131 HP
at 9,300 RPM and 80 pounds-feet of
torque at 7,800 RPM at the wheel) and
the LC8 engine competes directly with
the Ducati’s 150-horse “11-Degree”
Testastretta motor and leaves BMWMotorrad’s new air/liquid cooled 1200cc
boxer seemingly wanting.
The LC8 features an aerodynamically
profiled crank, ultra-light forged and
hard-anodized pistons, dry sump with
triple rotor Eaton pump, high speed
stable cam drive, and a lightweight
flywheel. Each feature is designed to
reduce rotating assembly mass and drag,
providing a Formula One like throttle
response combined with a blistering
V-twin redline – 10,250 – unfathomable
at Harley-Davidson, Indian or Victory.
In addition, KTM engineers applied
spectacularly wear-resistant, lowfriction, diamond-like coatings (DLC)
to all critical wear surfaces and bearing
journals inside the LC8.
An ingenious chain/gear cam drive
arrangement (a chain drives gears that
in real-time by the engine management
computer.
The engine is only the beginning in
the list of technology incorporated into
the new Adventure.
Attached to the svelte chrome-moly
trellis frame, the ultra-light one-piece
swingarm is nothing short of a casting
miracle. While not as technically
interesting as BMW’s one-legged
creations, the KTM piece is nonetheless a
manufacturing work of art.
A state-of-the-art WP rear coil-over
suspension unit is prominently displayed
between the frame and swing-arm. At
the rear, there is no linkage, cam, or extra
complexity to be found, for better or
worse.
Equipped to the Adventure is WP’s
latest Electronic Damping System (EDS)
suspension. In the rear, this system offers
remote electronic control of rebound and
compression damping, as well as rear
spring load via user-selectable modes.
Management of the EDS system
occurs through the bar-mounted controls
and is selectable while underway with
only a quick close of the throttle needed
to confirm the changes.
Four selectable rear preload modes are
sensitive to bike loading and offer preload
settings for one-up riding, one-up with
luggage, with passenger, and passenger
with luggage.
Further electronic suspension controls
have been integrated into the forks of
the Adventure model as well. Three
selectable riding modes provide on-the-
Knows
Roads
➥
Knows
the Best
fly adjustment of front and rear damping
characteristics to suit the road at hand.
Sport mode offers the rigid, accurate
feel of significant compression and
rebound dampening, while the street
mode provides a less aggressive damping
for a much more spine-friendly character.
Comfort mode, (aka “Off-Road”)
relaxes the suspension further yet,
allowing power transfer to the ground
while hammering through the bumps.
Fine-tuning of the rebound and
damping characteristics within each
mode by the end user is not possible. A
dealer or KTM service center may be
able to make adjustments using the KTM
service computer, but that has not been
credibly confirmed.
WP certainly has options if the factory
mode settings are found unsuitable. It’s
just money, after all.
As opposed to the electronically
controlled suspension of the standard
Adventure model, the “R” is fitted with
WP’s race-proven manually adjustable
forks and claims another inch, front and
rear, of suspension travel.
Going the “R” route also gains a larger,
more gravel-friendly 21-inch front and
18-inch rear rim. The standard Adventure
is shod in the street-oriented 19/17-inch
rim combo. As is typical with KTM,
premium laced rims are standard.
Other minor differences between the
two models can be summed up quickly:
the standard model is equipped with a
taller adjustable windscreen, integrated
➥
ROADS
You need both.
GPS is terrific for telling you where you are . . . and where you’ve been. But
what about “the best” way to get to where you’re going? The twistiest,
most dramatic roads . . . the roads you brag to your buddies about!
Butler Maps fills in where your GPS falls short. We show you every great
road and rank them based on how good they are from a motorcyclist’s
perspective. We also know that ending your ride in a neat town with a
cold beer and hot meal is important so all of
our maps have QR codes to hook you up with
our recommendations. The next time you
want to explore the best roads in America . . .
don’t ask your GPS.
www.butlermaps.com
BUTLERMAPS
butlermaps.com
June 2014
KTM 1190
from page 2
tire pressure monitoring system, and a
more comfortable adjustable-height seat
(33.8 or 34.4-inch height) with separate
pillion.
Crash bars are optional on the
standard model. Alternatively, the “R” has
a one-piece dirt bike-like one-position
seat (35-inch height) and crash bars as
standard.
Apparently KTM expects an owner
to spend lot more time standing on the
“R”’s pegs. Both models require a rather
long inseam. My six-foot frame is well
accommodated on the standard model
with the seat in the high position.
On to the Bosch ABS and traction
control…
In 1988 Bosch introduced the first
motorcycle ABS system derived from
automobile engineering. Today the Bosch
9ME linked ABS is the state of-theart, designed and built specifically for
The KTM 1190 sports a narrow profile befitting of its
adventure-touring mission.
system is temptation
to push the envelope
further. I guess that
conundrum has
been ongoing since
they first put brakes
on motorcycles.
Only time will tell,
but in the meantime
I am happy to have
all the help I can get.
Selectable riding
modes, including
Sport, Street, Rain,
and Off-Road,
also adjust the
characteristics of
the fly-by-wire
throttle and impact
the traction control
behavior.
Street and Sport
mode allow all 150
horses to be tapped,
while the Off-Road
and Rain modes
muzzle the output to
a more controllable
The Adventure is more street than dirt but will hold its own in
100 HP. With the
either environment.
MSC in Off-Road
mode, the rear wheel
is allowed to turn up to twice as fast as
motorcycles.
the front, so mild power wheelies and
The Bosch ABS is coupled with
slides are unhindered.
Brembo brakes, lean and pitch angle
The MSC can be something of a buzzsensors, and front/rear wheel speed
kill
in some instances, but there is an
sensors among others to form the Bosch/
“off
”
mode to solve that.
KTM Motorcycle Stability Control
When going from A to B in less than
(MSC).
ideal
conditions the MSC is awesome.
Basically, when the system is
Playing
around in the mud on a flooded
active (and it’s active by default when
dirt
road
recently, I made a curving pass
you turn on the key) you’re in “hero
through
the
goo with ABS and MSC off;
mode.” MotorCycleNews.com referred
the
bike
slipped
and slid, tail wag the
to this system as “KTM’s Uncrashable
dog, both feet down and full clutch to
Motorcycle.”
straighten out before the gravel, narrowly
By taking into calculation wheel
escaping a mud bath.
speed/slip, lean angle, acceleration (both
With the MSC and ABS active, the
positive and negative), throttle position,
difference
was night and day. A little tail
and brake pressure, the MSC actively
wag
was
noticeable
as the rear slipped
assists the rider in maintaining traction
and
grabbed.
Never
did the front
and minimizing wheel slip or lock while
threaten to skate due to lock up, nor did I
cornering and braking.
have to pull the clutch to keep control.
I have been trying to find a reason to
With the available power on tap and
dislike all this electronic “assistance” and
the
awesome suspension, the 1190 feels a
honestly can’t find any. It doesn’t even
lot
more
like a dirt bike than it is, a lesson
seem like it’s there, unless you’re trying
driven
home
after falling over in soft soil
to do massive power-slides or wheelies
and
later
in
spring
snow.
in the wrong mode. You have to turn the
At 507 pounds fueled, the 1190 is
MSC off for that… The MSC truly does
no
dirt
bike, but it is one of the lightest
operate in the background as claimed.
adventure
bikes on the market when
I often wonder if the added level of
considering
available power and range.
safety and confidence of this kind of
As advertised, the Ducati Multistrada
has a 13-pound curb weight
advantage, but carries nearly
one gallon less fuel than the
1190.
Based on 1,000 miles
of roving about Montana
on the 1190 so far, I have
experienced the extremes of
netting 300 miles out of the
six-gallon tank (50 miles to
the gallon), and pushing the
range down to 160 miles (26.5
miles per gallon). A solid
general purpose fuel economy
seems to be settling in at 4245 MPG, yielding a typical
range of roughly 260 miles.
In tight asphalt curves
the 1190 Adventure falls
quickly but confidently into
corners. With 150 ponies on
tap, lean-sensitive traction
control, rigid chassis and tight
suspension, the 1190 has zero
hesitation gathering itself
up and rocketing out of the
technology has a cost...and a cost.
The first cost is, as you’d expect,
associated with the price tag. The 1190
Adventure, fully equipped, bills at a
401K-undermining $17,000.
The second cost applies in regard to
the fact that, as an owner, there seems
to be a limited amount of maintenance
which the mechanically savvy DIY-er
can perform. Special KTM software and
diagnostic tools, available to dealers
only, are required for maintenance,
modification, or adjustment of anything
electrical. This now seems to include the
fine tuning of the suspension!
If you like to tinker, perform all your
own maintenance, or have the secure
feeling that you can fix your bike on the
trailside with tie wire and duct tape, this
new level of sophistication might be a
deal breaker.
The only other gripe I have is, due to
the fact that all U.S. bikes are designed
to meet the strictest U.S. emissions
standards (we won’t name any specific
states here...), the KTM Adventure
The ultra modern motorcycle meets times 150 years gone – historic site and former
territorial capital, Virginia City, Mont.
corners.
has been equipped with a large vapor
After apexing, a gradual twist of the
collection canister under the seat.
fly-by-wire throttle stands the bike up
With this bit of emissions control bulk
quickly, despite its top-heavy nature,
in place, there is nowhere on the bike to
and the LC8 pulls steadily. Think tractor
store the KTM-supplied tool kit. There is
pull...with the tractor burning nitro
methane! Just before
5,000 RPM, the
V-twin really comes
alive, clawing to
go faster, like some
ravenous dog after a
rabbit.
The factoryequipped slipper
clutch is silky smooth,
offering more than
enough engine
braking to be useful
with no annoying
clutch plate (or rear
tire) chatter after
sharp downshifts. The
MSC must be turned
off to truly feel the
clutch in action.
In long strings of
corners or pulling
winding passes,
I constantly find
myself in a stupidly
giddy state, giggling
maniacally, or singing
aloud.
As far as gripes go
Owner and author, Sam Park, at the Gilbert Brewery, a summer
there are only a few.
playhouse at Virginia City, Mont., during a January break-in ride.
KTM’s new
Editorial
Opinion
June 2014
Used bike market can tell us a lot about the sport and lifestyle
We wrote recently of the incredible
new motorcycles rolling off the
assembly lines, into showrooms and
then home to owners’ garages.
New motorcycles have never been
better, and never have we seen such
a wide range of choice for specific
motorcycle tasks.
But new motorcycles are not
cheap, although some new models
targeting entry-level riders are fairly
inexpensive, in the $5,000 to $8,000
range.
There is nothing quite as sweet as
buying a brand new ride. It feels good!
On the other hand, that first scratch
or nick (heaven forbid, dent or scrape)
really, really hurts! And that possible
20-30 percent depreciation in the first
couple of years is painful, too.
If everyone had the will and the
means to buy a brand new bike,
there would be no demand or market
for used machines ... which means
we would all have to have another
thousand or so square feet of
additional garage space to keep all our
bikes, past and present.
A decision to buy new or used
is personal and both choices carry
justifications – emotional and rational.
The current used motorcycle
market is a fascinating place to
browse. It tells much about what is
happening in our bike world as it
relates to economics, trends and riders
themselves.
Here are some observations
gleaned from surfing the used bike
markets:
Quite a bit of old Japanese
hardware from the late 1970s and
early 1980s is surfacing. Many are
“barn finds” that haven’t run for a
decade or two, or perhaps only very
intermittently. A very few are quite nice
and mechanically sound.
The increasing popularity of
motorcycles will account for some
of the resurrections; the need for
cheap commuting and errand running
accounts for some; perhaps Baby
Boomers whose first bikes were
Japanese are now empty nesters
looking for the “classics” they cut their
teeth on, or maybe want to try their
hands at a restoration project.
Most of these are cosmetically in
poor shape. Paint is faded; engine
cases are stained from corrosion,
fuel and battery leaks; side covers,
fenders, instruments and lights may be
missing; seat covers are often tattered.
The owner will proclaim, “Parts
are available on the Internet and are
cheap; just shoot some new paint and
it will look like a million bucks; a little
polish and elbow grease and she’ll
shine,” and so on.
Almost all were stored with gasoline
in the tanks and carburetors. Beware
the ad that says, “Was running good
when I put it away. Just clean the
carbs and it will likely purr like new.”
Some suffer from electrical
gremlins: “Has good compression
but no spark. Probably just needs a
coil” (or substitute rectifier, regulator,
burnt wiring connector, etc.). Good
luck running the problem down, then
finding the parts.
“Tires only have 1,000 miles on
them.” The seller doesn’t state the tires
are 24 years-old and weather checked
and dangerous. Let the vintage
motorcycle buyer beware.
There are ads for all brands of more
recent pedigree, too. The truly cherry
ones will hold their value to some
extent, seeing anywhere from 20 to 50
percent depreciation.
Others?
Some might state, “A few scratches
from a low-speed drop, nothing
serious.” The reality may be: Every
component on one side is rashed; fork
or frame may be bent, steering stops
broken off. This could be an actual
total by insurance company standards.
Do not rely on low-resolution phone
images taken in poor lighting to inform
you of the bike’s condition!
I like these: “No title but I have the
form to fill out, just send it in.” Uh-huh.
It ain’t that simple. It will require a
ream of paperwork, hours of your time
chasing and sending documents, not
to mention inspections and numbers
verifications... Besides, it could be hot.
This classic ad appeared recently
with no photo: “98 GSXR 750 - $1,500.
Timing is off and may need a couple
valves. If you are mechanically inclined
it won’t cost much to do yourself.
Bike has around 15k miles...(freshly
serviced, good tires, some goodies,
blah, blah)... Bike needs a little work
but is an awesome bike when running.
Bike is painted semi-gloss black.”
Translation: I tried to set valve
clearances myself, got it out of time
and when I hit the starter pistons met
valves. Valves bent, pistons may be
damaged, connecting rods may be
bent, con-rod bearings ruined. It would
be cheaper to put in a used motor than
to fix this one. In other words, this is a
parts bike. Oh, the “semi-gloss black”?
Well, I crashed it so rattle-can painted
it to cover the rash.
This guy is looking for a proverbial
Barnum & Bailey sucker.
The “classic” Japanese rides
advertised contain a broad mix of
brand and style including numerous
copies of vintage “enduros” and “trail”
bikes, also usually in “rode hard and
put away wet” condition.
Japanese bikes less than 10 years
old are plentiful.
The “crotch rockets” are readily
available, usually have low miles, and
carry a steep depreciation discount:
at five years old, offered at anywhere
from 60 to 75 percent of the new price.
Many examples of these are lightly
or even heavily crashed, and can be
had downright cheaply. Some have
been hot-rodded mercilessly or heavily
customized: bad news!
The tourers and sport-tour models
are in generally better condition but
are often high-mileage, anywhere from
50,000 to 150,000 miles.
The adventure-touring bikes and
dual-sports hold their value relatively
well, but may be cosmetically flawed,
as a buyer would almost expect, and
may have high mileage.
When it comes to BMWs, they hold
their value better than most, with the
exception of their first “multis,” the laydown “K” bikes. These are fairly rare
but evidently lack demand. Most have
relatively high mileage – 50,000 to
100,000 miles.
The “Boxers” fair better in retained
value, as do the more modern
longitudinal in-line “K”s, and condition
becomes the chief consideration.
Mileage is entirely secondary as
BMWs are purchased to ride hard and
far, have a reputation for endurance,
and BMW owners are known to
be anal when it comes to care and
maintenance of their machines.
Used Italian bikes, usually Ducatis,
are fairly rare, probably because
not many were purchased in the
region given the relatively thin dealer
networks.
Most of these see significant
depreciation (they can be expensive
when new) but are also in relatively
good condition. Often used Italian
bikes are low-mileage as they were
designed predominantly for sport and
do not make good L-D tourers (some
Guzzis are an exception).
The used market for American iron
is interesting as well.
It would seem the Harley-Davidson
brand represents the highest volume
of used road bikes. Never before has
the used market seen so many pristine
and fully blinged machines to choose
from. Yet Harley’s new motorcycle
sales are through the roof!
The Harley, legendary for retained
value, has slipped some in this
respect. We all remember the “glory”
years when you had to wait six months
to get delivery of a new H-D, you
would pay full MSRP or even more,
and you could re-sell it anytime at
close to retail.
You still see bikes from the early
and middle part of the last decade
with a hefty asking price – $10,000
to $15,000 not uncommon – but you
have to wonder how many of these
actually get sold.
Some seem more realistic: a 2010,
2011 or 2012 priced with perhaps 15 to
25 percent depreciation allowed, with
the asking price including $thousands
in aftermarket accessories, which
rarely add much value in the used
market.
What continues to amaze most
observers of the used Harley market
is the number of exceptionally lowmileage bikes (we did see one the
other day with 97,000 miles on the
clock). It is clear many of these were
purchased as luxury items – status
symbols or toys – without the intent of
accumulating significant mileage.
Do the math and you will find many
H-Ds that have been ridden only 400,
600 or 1,000 miles per year. What a
value! But of course many of these
See Used Bikes, Page 7
June 2014
Personal column
Opinion
Just another day on the bike, dodging truck cargo and SUVs
By Cole Boehler
Editor and Publisher
one was tight behind the first. I kept
my eye on them as we cruised at the
70 mph limit.
At about two hundred yards the
That early April Friday was a good trailing vehicle seemed to drift out
one to go play hooky.
onto the centerline ... then it kept
Three of
drifting ... into
us were to
our lane. He
leave at 10
was going to
a.m., but
pass!
Cole Boehler
one rider
We were
Editor and Publisher
had to do an
now about
emergency
100 yards
battery
distant and all
transplant
three riders
so we pulled
were grabbing
out 40
big handfuls of
minutes late.
brakes as we drifted right toward the
What a mixed bag of bikes and
fog line ... and over it. There was only
riders: a “young” guy around 30,
a foot, maybe a foot-and-a-half of
National Guardsman attending the
pavement margin, then the marbles.
local engineering college, mounted
At perhaps 50 yards the driver of
on a sleek and speedy Yamaha R1
the passing vehicle – a beefy Ford
sport bike; a late-50s journeyman
Expedition I think – finally saw us.
meat cutter employed at the local
He made a panic jerk to the right,
chain supermarket riding a big,
nearly colliding with the car he was
low-slung Yamaha Road Star 1700
attempting to overtake, before he
cruiser; and an aging motojournalist
straightened his wheels, realizing he
aboard a comfortable but capable
had nowhere to go. The car he was
Yamaha FJR sport-tour.
passing then jerked to the right, too.
We slabbed it to the capital city to
I kept watching the passing SUV
the north, skirting the urban area and in order to gauge how much room we
heading for twisty and fun Flesher
might have to spare ... if any. Then I
Pass.
realized the rider in front of me was
Running along a county two-lane,
slowing far more quickly than I. The
fighting a powerful portside crosswind distance between us had shrunk
with me at point, we caught up to
rapidly, and now I could see he was
a pickup ahead loaded high with...
in the loose stuff and blowing up dust.
what? Hard to tell, but a lot of it,
Naturally I squeezed my brake lever
whatever it was. Then we found out.
harder to avoid a collision.
From about 50 yards back, hit
It was then I realized the rider
by an especially powerful gust, we
behind me might be in the same
observed a folding chair leap from the predicament. I quickly checked my
truck into the air, then blow laterally
mirror and – yes! – he was far too
into the right-side ditch. Wow! Then
close and closing!
another went. Holy crap!
Somehow all the vehicles met
Had the truck been coming at us
simultaneously with scant – but
and lost one, then two, folding chairs, enough – room between to meet
they would have come down directly
and pass. I did not hit the rider to my
in our lane, potentially taking out two
front, nor was I rear-ended by the
bikes and riders, maybe all three.
rider behind. None of us had opted
Losing large bits of an unsecured
for the ditch, but it had been a distinct
load ought to earn a costly penalty;
possibility.
so potentially lethal to two-wheeled
We slowly cruised into the town,
riders.
stopped and took stock. What had
We enjoyed a good lunch and
just happened?
discussed our good fortune before
The essential question was easy:
heading over the Garnet Mountains
Why had the passing driver not seen
and into the Clark Fork Valley, then
three motorcycles, broad daylight,
up the Flint Creek Valley, all on
all with headlights on (and me with
pleasantly winding two-lane.
two additional bright L.E.D. lights),
As a traveler approaches the little
coming directly at him?
town of Phillipsburg, he will take a
Answers were harder: Was he
nice left-hand sweeper before the
(yes, it was a he and his eyeballs
valley opens up for a straight shot to
appeared to be the size of cue
the town a couple miles distant.
balls went he went by) simply not
When we were perhaps three
expecting to see motorcycles in early
hundred yards from the curve – R1
April?
on point, me in the middle and the
Was he distracted by wife, kids,
cruiser at sweep – we saw a tandem
dog, cell phone or tablet?
of vehicles approaching. The second
Whatever, his underwear was at
least as soiled as ours.
We can only hope he learned
a lasting lesson and will never
endanger riders like this again.
We learned some, too. A
motorcyclist must be aware of what is
happening in all directions, and at all
times, and sometimes simultaneously
under emergency – life and death –
conditions.
I learned it was important to
keep an eye on the guy who was so
careless and blind, since I had to be
able to judge how much lateral room
he might leave us: take the gravelly
shoulder or the ditch? I also learned
that I have to be watching the rider
ahead equally intently, as well as the
rider behind. Motorcycles colliding
with one another always yields a bad
outcome.
We had five vehicles involved
in this near disaster and only our
attentiveness saved us all from the
lack of attentiveness of one. Had we
been in our car or truck, we’d have
been into the ditch at 30 or 40 miles
per hour or more.
I give thanks my fellow riders and I
all had our heads in the game.
It came home that even the most
casual and leisurely cruise can be
fraught with peril. We sometimes
take calculated risks to up the fun
factor, but risks are always present,
regardless, and some of those are
beyond our control, though can be
mitigated by alert anticipation.
We can get out
100 times and
never experience
a close-call
pucker...or get
several in one
day.
There’s only
one way to ride:
with your constant
and full attention.
*****
In the April 2014 NR Rider, we
carried a small piece on the merits of
repairing motorcycle gear rather than
tossing it, in this case textile luggage.
We spent $50 to replace failed
zippers on a 10-year-old tank bag
that had much utility and use, and
was otherwise in good condition. We
reasoned: spending $50 on repair
rather than $150 on a new one was
good economics.
Ho ho! The new zippers she
chose were for some reason metal
and of a not particularly heavy
gauge. On the fifth use of the
repaired bag, the zipper snagged
and I could see the metal teeth had
separated...failed.
So now I have spent $50 for
repairs, and will have to spend $150
for a new bag – ahem, now a $200
investment. Repair is not always
good economics if the repair is not
good.
*****
Here’s what I’ve learned about 10day weather forecasts: the coming
weekend weather looks foul but the
weather for the following weekend
looks perfect. Seven days later: the
weather for the coming weekend
looks foul but the weather for the
following weekend looks perfect.
*****
An alert reader noticed something
peculiar in our recently released “Top
Tours 2104” magazine. He spotted in
an ad a photographic depiction of a
Harley-Davidson that was a “strange
custom.”
It was so
strange
and so
customized that it had the primary
cover and gear shift lever on the
right side of the bike, opposite of the
factory set-up!
There was really only one
explanation: the ad’s designer had
chosen to “flop” the H-D image in
order to achieve some graphically
artistic aim, not considering that any
Harley owner/rider would spot the
discrepancy.
Published ten times annually - Jan./Feb., March-Oct., Nov./Dec.
A Continental Communications Publication
914 Holmes Ave., Butte, MT 59701
406-498-3250 • <[email protected]>
Editor and Publisher - Cole D. Boehler • <[email protected]>
Business and Sales Manager - Dani M. Collins-Rollison
<[email protected]> 406-490-8472
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406-333-2824 • <[email protected]>
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All rights reserved by the publisher
Opinion
June 2014
From NR Rider readers...
Dear editor,
Coincidentally, Mette and I likely
did that ride within days of each
other, as I rode it on September 1.
I liked your story about the jerky.
Next time you have occasion to ride
through Imbler, Ore., (perhaps en
route to Wallowa County, then on to
Lewiston via the famed Rattlesnake
I just read Mette’s (Helena
Elfvig’s) piece in the April Northern
Rockies Rider. Loved it.
I began riding last year and, like
Mette, am in my 60’s. I prefer to
ride alone because I’m a stop-andsmell-theroses-andchat-with-thelocals kind
of rider, and
I like to set
my own pace.
I frequently
travel with my
dog, Charlie.
That said,
it sounds like
Mette and
I might be
kindred souls
and I would
like to get
What’s with these females who want to ride motorcycycles? (Jokes!)
acquainted
Suzanne Shafer sent us this image of her with her Honda Shadow and
with her. I’m
companion, Charlie, at pillion.
hoping you
will be willing
to forward this e-mail to her. (Ed:
Grade), stop at the Mercantile for
Done.)
some of their famed pepperoni! You
I live in the Walla Walla Valley, in
won’t have any trouble finding it.
Milton-Freewater, Ore., which is 10
I’m itching to tour Montana, but
miles south of Walla Walla, Wash.
first on my agenda for this year is
The photo I sent was taken in Boise, a leisurely 1,200-mile loop around
Idaho, during my first solo tour, over Washington – Hwy. 14 through the
Labor Day last year.
Columbia Gorge, up through the rain
I did an 800-mile loop through
forest via Hwy. 101, across the top
Lewiston to Kamiah (Idaho), then on of the peninsula to Port Townsound,
to McCall and Boise, then Halfway
ferry to Coupeville, Hwy. 20 across
(where I camped in a barnyard 15
the top of Washington, then back
feet from a sign advising “Keep gate down to the Walla Walla Valley
closed. Nasty bull.”), which was my
through Spokane, Colfax, and
entry for the Wallowa Mountains/
Dayton.
Hells Canyon stretch of road that
And thanks to David Hoffman’s
Mette described as “quite a bit of
piece, I’m tentatively planning to
work.” An understatement, in my
begin this ride on June 21 and be
opinion. Sixty miles of blind curves
among the riders who converge at
filled with potholes, rocks, roadkill,
Stonehenge at noon. Sound like a
RV’s taking their half out of the
good beginning for a ride report? I’ll
middle, and cows – yes, cows – is
definitely consider trying my hand at
not my idea of a fun ride.
one.
Thanks
for publishing
your paper. I
picked up my first copy of
it the other day (at the local Honda
shop) while my bike was being
fixed, and enjoyed it thoroughly. I
look forward to reading it again.
Suzanne Shafer
Milton Freewater, Ore.
P.S. Finally had time last night
to sit down with “Top Tours.” What
a great resource! I’m happy to say
that I’ll be doing at least bits of a
couple of them this summer. Thanks
again.
Cows on the road? Sounds like
Ms. Shafer wouldn’t enjoy riding in
Montana! Here we have both cows
and cow splatters to avoid.
Editor,
Good NR Rider edition (May,
2014). The editorial about modern
electronics and manufacturers/
dealers holding their cards to
their chests fits in nicely with the
simplicity of the classics. Probably
they all do it but I know BMW/MINI
for sure are prime offenders in that
tact. Affirmation for my decision to go
with a bike I can diagnose and fix
myself. Lance Lerum
Townsend, Mont.
Yup, we just doubled your
quantity. Glad your customers like
it and hopefully we’re bringing folks
through your door.
Editor,
I had an Airhawk (pneumatic seat
pad as reviewed in the May 2014
NR Rider)) in 2000, but only used
it a few times before trying Corbin,
Mustang and others.
The best I’ve ever ridden on
came from stock seat modifications
done by the boys at Mean City
Cycles in Maiden, N.C. I had their
seat mods on my second Valkyrie
for 117,000 very, very comfortable
miles of riding in four years, my VTX
1800F for 13,000 and now my Fury
Unleashed.
They took my inseam, height,
bike and weight into consideration
for the Fury modification that they
did on the pan, and gave me one
inch more forward leg room and
a one-half-inch lower seat height
along with a gel pad and 22-pound
memory foam insert. Hospitals only
use 15-pound for hurt patients.
My one-day turnaround cost was
$125 – far, far, far less than buying a
new saddle.
You might contact them and cook
a deal with them to evaluate one of
their modifications?
Dave Hoffman
Soap Lake, Wash.
Editor,
Could you send us more of
the (Northern Rockies Rider)
newspapers? Customers are really
starting to like the info in them and
they don’t last long around here.
Lucky at Lawrence’s Motorcycles
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Good suggestion, Dave. We
wonder if there is someone in our
region who can perform similar seat
surgery. We’ll check into it as we’re
not happy with our current Corbin
(acquired with the bike). Seat mods
are the ultimate customization step,
because “if your butt ain’t happy,
ain’t nobody happy.”
Old School
‘Old School’ learns he is just a sophomore compared to some veterans
By Steve Kelley
NR Rider Columnist
Japanese rides. I have seen a Vincent Black
Shadow and early BMWs at these meetings as
well. They still ride, and most of them still build/
restore old iron.
“Down at the AMCA...”
No, this is not a hit song by the “Village People.”
On the agenda was scheduling a “tiddler
I attended a bi-monthly lunch with our local chapter run,” (tiddler being a British term for a small
of the AMCA
displacement motorcycle), then a
run to Polson, Mont., to visit the
(Antique
Miracle of America Museum and its
Motorcycle Club
of America)
wonderful collection of antique bikes
Steve “Big Daddy” Kelley
and memorabelia, which is a bit over
last month to
NR Rider Columnist
100 miles and one of the longer rides,
coax them into
exhibiting some
given the age of riders and mounts.
The real fun for me was the shared
of their bikes in
our S.M.E.G.
stories and general banter that flowed
around the table.
Motorcycle
Show this year (May 17).
One of the members passed around a photo of
This group has the most amazing collection
his father on a 1916 bike, complete with Victorian
riding apparel. It really opens the eyes to see proof
of motorcycles and first-hand experiences I have
of how long our passion of motorcycling has been
ever had the pleasure to witness. I call myself
“old school” but at my age, (mid-60s), I am a
around, and how greatly it impacted transportation
history in America.
sophomore at best, compared to the AMCA guys
and gals.
I am hoping to join the club soon, but first I
In the parking lot was a wide selection of bikes,
must have a bike at least 20 years old. Sounds like
another adventure.
from old Brits to American V-twins and smaller
My attention has been focused on our Fourth
Annual S.M.E.G. (Serious Motorcycle Enthusiasts
Group) motorcycle show, so I am sorry to say the
BOG’s have been on the back burner this month.
We are looking forward to a good show. I love
to meet new enthusiasts every year who bring their
talent and passion to the motorcycle culture. I will
look forward to face time with NR Rider editor C.B.
to plot future explorations and exploits. I’m sure we
will have some big fun as well.
I will leave you with a piece of lore I heard at
the AMCA meeting: “The first motorcycle race
happened when the second motorcycle was built.”
Here are a few others the editor likes:
“’I don’t really feel like going for a ride today...’,
so said no motorcycle rider ever.”
“Some need therapy; I have a motorcycle.”
“Fifteen grand and 15 miles doesn’t make you a
biker.”
“Time spent on your motorcycle is not deducted
from your lifespan.”
“Sometimes it takes a whole tank of fuel before
you can think straight.”
“Owning a motorcycle is not a matter of life and
death. It is much more important than that.”
Opinion
June 2014
Guest Editorial
More on motorcycle insurance from a legal perspective
By Charles T. “Chuck” Conrad
Attorney, Spokane
and lost wages and pay for our pain
and suffering, again, to limits specified
in the policy.
I am a member of the Lone Wolf
This is my main point: It is
H.O.G. Chapter in Spokane, Wash. I
advisable for a motorcyclist to have a
ride a 2013 Street Glide called
high dollar amount of uninsured and
“Gorgeous.” I am an attorney. For
underinsured coverage.
37 years I have represented injured
In a motorcycle accident, we
motorcyclists.
generally get badly hurt. We must
It is my
have
hope I can
sufficient
help Northern
insurance to
Rockies Rider
compensate
Charles “Chuck” Conrad
readers better
us for the
Guest Columnist
understand
damages we
the very
suffer.
important issues
It is
surrounding
advisable
appropriate
to call your
insurance coverage, and to help
insurance agent and make sure you
readers improve their understanding of have sufficient insurance to protect
the role insurance adjustors play after
yourself. After an accident, it is too late
an accident happens.
to check your insurance coverage.
Perhaps NR Rider readers will
This is a hypothetical situation; I call
consider contacting their insurance
it “the phantom vehicle.”
agent to make sure they have the
We are riding down the road and
correct type of coverage in a sufficient
a motorist comes into our lane and
amount to protect themselves and
pushes us off the road. We are badly
their passengers if something “bad”
hurt and our bike is totaled. The
were to happen on the road.
motorist keeps going.
Declaration page: The most
We do not know the name of the
important page of an insurance policy,
motorist who pushed us off the road.
the declaration page, lists the type and We do not know his/her license plate
amount of insurance a motorcyclist
number.
has. That coverage is in force on the
What do we do?
accident date. After the accident,
If we have uninsured and
a motorcyclist may not increase or
underinsured coverage our insurance
change insurance coverage for that
company will pay for our damaged
accident.
bike, medical bills, lost wages and pain
Liability coverage: If you run a red and suffering.
light and hit a car and injure someone,
In Washington, the accident must
your liability coverage will pay to fix
be reported to the appropriate law
that person’s car, pay their medical
enforcement agency within 72 hours
bills, pay their lost wages and pay
of the accident, and the facts of the
the person for pain and suffering, but
accident must be “corroborated by
only up to the limits specified in your
competent evidence.”
policy’s declaration page.
With this type of accident, a skilled
If you are injured, your liability
motorcycle accident attorney should
coverage will not pay anything toward
be contacted immediately.
your injuries.
Personal injury protection
Uninsured and underinsured
(PIP): This is insurance coverage
coverage: This coverage protects
we purchase for our protection. The
us, the insured. If a motorist runs
insurance company with the liability
a red light, hits us and does not
(the company whose insured is at
have sufficient liability coverage or
fault) will not pay our medical bills or
no insurance at all, our insurance
lost wages until the case settles.
coverage will pay to fix or replace our
Some say the game works this way
motorcycle, will pay our medical bills
so the insurance company can force
Used Bikes
from page 4
bikes lack the latest innovations, engineering and
technological refinements H-D has been piling on.
A browser will encounter the occasional Buell. In
light of the fact that the brand was discontinued in
late 2009, and parts availability could be an issue,
they are often priced at perhaps half or less of
MSRP, still a pretty healthy rate of retained value,
considering.
It seems used Victorys for sale are quite rare as
well. One wonders if that is because owners are
satisfied with their current iteration and so keep
them. The few we have seen have relatively low
mileage and are in “perfect” condition, commanding
60 to 80 percent of MSRP.
For the heck of it, we browsed 218 “by-owner”
motorcycle listings in the Spokane area, feeling it is
probably representative of the region. Those listings
were posted within 40 hours, which would seem to
us to settle early for little money so at
least we can pay some medical bills
and have some income.
Our PIP coverage will pay our
medical bills and lost wages without
having to settle the case. It is my
opinion, based on 37 years of
experience, we should have $50,000
minimum PIP coverage.
With a car or motorcycle accident,
as many as four different adjustors
may be involved. This gets confusing.
Hopefully we can add some clarity
regarding “who’s on first.”
Property damage adjuster: Your
insurance company will appoint an
adjustor to determine if your bike
should be repaired or totaled. If your
bike is to be repaired, the adjustor will
write you a check. You can have the
bike repaired at any shop you want
or you can fix the bike and keep the
check.
If the bike is totaled, you will be paid
fair market value and the insurance
company gets the bike. You can keep
the bike and the insurance company
will pay you fair market value, less the
salvage value of the bike.
Personal injury protection (PIP)
adjustor: This adjustor works for your
insurance company, not for you. He
or she will only pay the medical bills
if he decides the medical bills are
“reasonable and necessary.”
The conflict comes when your
doctor orders 10 physical therapy
visits, but the adjustor will pay for only
five “reasonable and necessary” visits
and you have to pay for five visits.
Sometimes an adjustor may say
he will not pay for the MRI the doctor
ordered because the MRI was not
“reasonable and necessary.”
This becomes very frustrating, as
you paid for PIP coverage, but the
adjustor will only pay certain medical
bills. This is not right and the adjustor
should not get away with it.
Liability adjustor: This is the
“bad guy” from an accident victim’s
perspective. His sole function in his job
is to save the insurance company as
much money as possible. Obviously,
this means paying you as little as
possible.
From my personal experience
as an accident lawyer, he will try to
point to an exceptionally robust used motorcycle
marketplace, at least on the supply side.
We felt anything pre-1985 could be termed
“vintage.” Adventure bikes were categorized as
“road” and dual-sport went into “off-road.” The
remaining distinctions were clear.
Brand
Suzuki
Honda
Kawasaki
Yamaha
H-D
BMW
Road
10
33
10
19
39
3
Off-Road
8
9
5
21
NA
NA
Vintage
3
32
3
7
3
1
We also came across a couple of Buells and two
Victorys. The rest we lumped together as “rare” or
“exotic,” 18 of these.
What immediately jumps out are the number
of pre-’85 Hondas brought to the market – almost
equal the number of newer Hondas. A half dozen or
so of these vintage bikes are the little step-through
“trail” 50s, 90s and 110s, which are now so popular
minimize costs to his company – and
payments to you – by getting you to
settle as soon as possible.
He may tell you his investigation
shows you were at fault or at least
partially so, because, for example, you
should have seen his insured running
the red light.
He may insist you give a recorded
statement so he can fairly evaluate
the case. Never, ever give the liability
adjustor a recorded statement. If you
decide to give a recorded statement,
he will only ask questions helpful to
his case and harmful to yours. If he
tells tell you the law requires you to
give a recorded statement, that is a
falsehood.
Uninsured (um) and
underinsured (uim) coverage
adjustor: This coverage you may
purchase from your insurance
company. Although you pay for
this coverage, this adjustor, too, is
adversarial to you. It is his job to pay
you no money or as little money as
possible.
It is difficult for people to believe the
adjustor for your insurance company
would be against you. All I can say is,
under insurance law, he is. Again, be
aware and consult an attorney if you
feel you are not being treated fairly.
Conclusion: In many ways
this article is depressing because
it makes it clear no one in the
insurance business is really on
your side; everyone’s objective
is to pay you as little as possible.
Unless you understand the role each
adjustor plays, you are at a severe
disadvantage.
I hope this information is helpful.
You may always call my office if you
have questions.
Ride safe.
The preceding deals with general
legal concepts. It is not legal advice.
A person should always contact his/
her attorney for specific legal advice.
However, motorcyclists need to be
alert to these important matters, which
should be further evaluated with an
attorney and insurance agent. Charles
Conrad can be reached at 509-9244825. His web address is <www.
lawshark.com>.
and often command prices three times over 1970s
MSRPs.
Also notable are the number of used Harleys
for sale, and Yamaha’s clear dominance of the offroad category. Honda, expectedly, dominates the
Japanese brands in newer road bikes.
Interesting, eh?
Either way, determine what kind of riding you
want to do, research the models available, and
check out new and used prices. Don’t forget to
add in the costs for a training course, licensing and
registration, tax (if applicable), insurance, riding gear
you’ll need and accessories you may want. Now
determine what your bank accounts can handle.
Head down to your dealer and try on a new one.
Some very attractive financing options may be
available.
If you just can’t swing a new bike, get into the
used market and do some research. Pick out a few
worth going to see in person, then take your most
knowledgeable motorcycle acquaintance with you.
Then buy a bike and ride hard, ride free, ride well
and ride safe!
June 2014
Messer
and family.
I
remember
from page 1 now why I
am doing this
makes me ask again, “Why the hell am I
and another
doing this?”
fluid wells up
My garage is so full of bikes I can barely and traces
walk around, (usually not a bad thing), it
a slow, salty
is 13F degrees outside and snowing, my
path down
“plate” is incredibly full – full-time job,
my cheek: my
full-time online college courses, a wife, a
friend, Kirby.
dog, two side jobs, three of my own bikes to
I wrap the
maintain and two project motorcycles.
bloody
digit with
a piece of
shop towel,
affix it with
electrical
tape and
get back
to work. It
does not
seem as
cold now.
Most
of us, if
Kirby was an avid outdoorsman who respected and enjoyed nature’s
fortunate, bounty.
will have a
side by side here in Moses Lake,
handful of
Wash., for 21 years had a lot do with it.
people come through our lives that
That, and motorcycles.
we consider “best friends.”
We shared some interesting factors:
That label can be tough to
we
were both the youngest of three
quantify, but I like to think of it as
siblings,
both of German descent, and
someone who would take a bullet for
both
our
fathers had been in the Air
you and for whom you would have
Kirby feeling the joy after an epic ride with pals.
Force.
We
each had an older sister
no trouble yourself stepping in front
named
Kathy
and an older brother who
of said lead projectile.
So why in the freezing November rain
Kirby J. Messer (“J” for “Genius,” we had picked on us mercilessly as kids.
(Both of our brothers have names that
do I bring in four more machines?
would quip) became my friend in swift
are also common for a girl, so maybe
I look over my shoulder to a photograph fashion due in part to the fact we had
that was why they were so mean?)
pinned above my workbench, a picture of
many things in common, and others in
And motorcycles...four of them, each
a man holding an empty shot glass upside
polar opposition. Like magnetism, this
a
filthy
mess from being stored idle for
down in a toast to an epic motorcycle trip
is often an important ingredient in a
years, unridden, gasoline laden. You who
we were on together with a group of friends friendship, but the fact that we worked
do maintenance know what is being faced.
I have been tasked by my friend Kirby’s
widow of three-plus years now, and his
oldest son who is away in college, with
getting them all running and sold. Kirby’s
three boys are like nephews to me so I will
do this for them. He would do the same for
me in a heartbeat.
Back now to the fun task of purging
“fuel-gone-bad-and-turned-to-varnish”
from the circulatory and respiratory
systems of these bikes.
Like soldiers who form bonds under
fire, Kirby and I had worked on a 12hour rotating day/night shift for five
years with the same group of guys,
though Kirby and I were the only riders.
We saw more of each other than of
our own families some months, and
we both received promotions on the
same day and began to share an office
See Messer, Page 9
Big Horn
Basin Riders
Freedom Run
July 4th & 5th, 2014
Support our Troops
www.bighornbasinriders.com
Troy Dorman
307-921-2704
<[email protected]>
REKINDLE YOUR
HAPPILY
OPOLIS
World’s LARGEST Mineral Hot Springs!
Biker Friendly Town
thermopolis.com
Thermopolis, Wyoming
Something for everybody...
July 4th: Pedal & Pet Parade, “Mountain Heart” in concert,
Fireworks Show
July 5: Freedom Run Biker Ride Fundraiser
July 11: Friday Night Art Stroll
July 11-12: Lion’s Club Ranch Rodeo
July 18: “Jim Jones” in concert
July 18-20: All Class Reunion
July 22: “Riders in the Sky” concert
July 26-27: Wyoming Junior Rodeo Association Rodeo
July 29-August 1: Hot Springs County Fair
June 2014
Messer
Don’t Miss a
Single Issue...
from page 8
for the next 15 years, prompting our
spouses to refer to us as each other’s
“office wife.”
Kirby was an avid hunter and
outdoorsman. Me, not so much. He
shot it, stuck it, caught it, ate it and
even did his own taxidermy. His boys
could shoot a deer rifle about the
same time they learned to walk, and
with a cabin in the mountains near the
Canadian border they would spend a
lot of time there in season.
Though we both loved motorcycles
in general, our bikes of choice when
we first met were at opposite ends
of the pole. He rode a 1976 BMW
R-90/6 with Luftmeister fairing and
Krauser bags while I piloted a 1985
Kawasaki 750 Turbo and was looking
for a lighter, faster machine. (He later
moved to a GL1500 Gold Wing, me to
a Kaw ZX-6E.)
I chuckled to myself the first time we
went on a twisty ride together, thinking
of how I would leave him in my dust.
Later, I laughed at myself after being
schooled by Kirby and the “old” R90
as he blew by me in a corner on the
gravel strewn, steep descent
into Heppner, Ore.
Yep, he sure could
ride and I loved him all
the more for that!
Together with a third,
very close compatriot,
Chuck Griffin, we formed
our own “gang” – the BROS
(Boxer Riders Of Solidarity), but
only after their Bad Bavarian Biker
influence had me riding a 1997 BMW
try Figure 8
The Best Loops
in Montana?
Canada. It is wild and remote
and sparsely populated with
is
never much traffic. Scenery
and
and
“The best laid plans of mice
stunning: rivers and lakes
trees
men often go awry.”
big mountains with big
Who
Poet Robert Burns was right.
including cedars, indicative
find
to
tour
a
high amounts
hasn’t carefully planned
hours or a of the relatively
the plan on the rocks within
of moisture this high country
day?
receives.
wife
Such was the case when
Elevations vary from the
to ride one of
Marilyn and I headed out
lowest point (1,880 feet
state’s
perhaps
–
our favorite Montana routes
at Troy) to well over a mile
the favorite.
hundreds high.
We have been visiting with
Wildlife thrives where
Rockies
best-ofof riders from the Northern
Excellent roads add to this
few people. Both
we are based there are
from the people and traffic.
are
region. When we mention
It’s all about getting away
508.
whitetail and mule deer
yes,
Troy and Yaak on Hwy.
“Oh
and
in Montana, most observe:
Montana experience. Between
present in large numbers
the
to)
wanted
always
bears
for any distant.
I’ve ridden (or
we have seen numerous
But these routes are suitable
in Glacier
a saying about the Yaak
have
Road
We
-The-Sun
suppose
or
oneGoing-To
We would
tone Park” and moose.
style of two-wheeled machine,
that is meant to be
were
Park,” or substitute “Yellows
and easier on and Kootenai
wolves are present and probably the
some truth: “If
two-up; just take it slower
.”
humorous, but contains
here, as in
or the “Beartooth Highway
never totally wiped out
parts, the
those
the bigger and heavier varieties.
ya go off the road in them
We always respond, “Yes,
these
rest of the state.
before search
Marilyn and I have soloed
but have you
be
bears are likely to find ya
are extraordinary rides,
but I would
Some of the pavement could
routes numerous times,
Kootenai
does.”
be
and
can
rescue
it
Yaak
and
the
since
e”
ridden
ever
another
described as “primitiv
recommend going with
Indeed, ride with some friends.
striping
lacking
and
this
of
Country?”
rough
most
and
In
broken
ticket, eh?
bike/rider or several.
But, sounds like just the
ng is
“Huh? Where’s that?”
service.
and signage. Corner engineeri
country there is no cell phone
are “blind”
Well, let me tell you...
hours away.
unpredictable and many
See Loops, Page 9
’s
Medical facilities may be
timber and
This region represents Montana
due to heavy growth of
le repair could be 100 miles
Motorcyc
where
corner
t
roadside.
northwes
the
extreme
underbrush right up to
and close to
you’re not far from Idaho
By Cole Boehler
Subscribe
Today!
Proof that motorcycles
create lasting memories
By Dottie Rankin
For Northern Rockies Rider
Three amigos, the “B.R.O.S.” – “Boxer Riders Of Solidarity” – during earlier, better times,
from left, Chuck Griffin, (the late) Kirby Messer and author, Ben Getz.
R1100RT.
Together we put on many, many
miles each year, looking forward the
most to our annual four-day F.A.R.T.
ride that we did for 13 years (Freaks
And Reprobates Tour).
The memories fade, as misty as
my eyes, and I clear my vision and
turn back to working on Kirby’s
1991 Honda ST1100. I saved it for
last and it drew first blood.
The little ‘97 Yamaha PW80 was
easy to get running after finding an
exhaust pipe on eBay, cleaning off caked
mud and horse dung, and fitting a new
spark plug. It fired right up, contaminating
Close to Mt. Rushmore, Crazy
Horse Memorial, Custer State Park
14
0
2
,
10
,
nfo
i
e
mor
m
.co
n
i
s
i
crud.com
r
e
ust ters
c
-3250
@qwestoffice.net • 406-498
s Publication • contcom
ntal Communication
• July, 2012 • A Contine
Yaak and Kootenai Coun
• Shopping
• Restaurants
• Lodging
t
visi
FREE
Take one home!
in Riding Authority”
Mounta
“Your Northern Rocky
Volume 1, Number 4
Iron Mountain Road
Needles Highway
Wildlife Loop Road
Hell Canyon
For
and Alberta
Most scenic rides in the
Black Hills for
Custer Cruisin’
1–
.
g
Au
ing, British Columbia
, Idaho, Montana, Wyom
Serving Washington
s
@cu 2-9818
o
f
in
99
800-
the air in my garage with pungent blue twostroke smoke.
Two of his three boys had learned to
See Messer, Page 10
and
Dad, Alzheimer’s disease
This is a story about my
cles.
the powerful effect of motorcy
might think. Well let me
A strange combination you
a
this is not a story filled with
tell you before we begin,
his
dad,
personal story of my
lot of statistics. This is my
cles fit into all it all.
illness and how his motorcy
a
own
you
if
hype:
the
No doubt you have heard
are,
part of you, it is who you
motorcycle it becomes a
a
matter if you have ridden
it is how you live. It doesn’t
get in
or a lifetime. Motorcycles
month, a year, 10 years
and
and head and soul. You
your blood and your heart
truly lasting memories are
your bike and rides are what
If you would like direct home mail
delivery, send your name, mailing
address, telephone number, e-mail
address and $25 to: Northern Rockies
Rider, 914 Holmes Ave., Butte, MT 59701,
or contact us at <[email protected]>
Canadian Subscriptions are $50
made of.
and I have proof.
It’s not a cliche’. It’s true
was diagnosed with
My dad, Wayne Raasch,
Wayne Raasch, aching to
Dottie Rankin.
grips just once more.
get his hands on some Harley
Change service requested:
914 Holmes Ave., Butte,
in 2009.
With daughter and author Alzheimer’s
MT 59701
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
Two aspects to
Motorcycle
Safety
PAID
Permit No. 93
Livingston, MT
Welcome Riders!
Riverview rooms
available!
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Page 15
See Memories, Page 2
Riding the
Ho Chi Minh
Trail
Page 17
June 2014
Messer
from page 9
ride on this, and it finds a good home with
another father and his up-and-coming “dirt
squirts.”
The second bike resurrected is a “very
The little PW80 had been “ridden hard and
put away wet” but cleaned up as well as an
old range hand on a Saturday night.
cherry” 1981 Honda XL185S that Kirby
had purchased for his wife to learn on. She
rode it maybe twice before falling off and
calling it quits.
It has an eager buyer waiting, though
it needs more resuscitation. The carb is
completely gummed from at least three
years of sitting, and the oiled air filter has
decayed into a mass of black goop. I guess
nothing lasts forever, reminding me we
are all mortal, some just shuffle off the coil
Don’t Miss a
Single
Issue...
ing, British Columbia
, Idaho, Montana, Wyom
Serving Washington
and Alberta
sooner than others.
Before his brain tumor, surgery, and
subsequent five-year journey of recovery
before it returned, Kirby was fastidious
about bike maintenance. He would be
chagrined at the state this XL has come
to: drive chain rusted into one solid piece
needing to be removed just so the little
scrambler can be rolled
around the garage!
Parts are ordered, carb
boiled in acid and rebuilt
with a kit, plus new air
filter, fresh oil and gas and
the little red gem fires up
on the second kick. I know
why Kirby loved Hondas.
Memories are
made of moments that
matter; I had many such
moments with Kirby, so
it matters now that I try
to create a few more
even after he has been
gone almost four years.
The summer following
Kirby’s recovering from
the surgery to remove
an avocado-sized tumor
from his frontal lobe,
and the ensuing chemo
and radiation, also saw
the first event dubbed
“The Kirby Derby.”
Friends organized a
poker run event to give
riders not only a chance Somehow the thought of “resurrection” seemed appropriate
to ride and raise funds
as the XL was brought back to life.
for a good cause, but
to help a friend and
never forget.
his family. An amazing assortment
When the next summer rolled
of people turned out to ride and help
around Kirby was well enough to
behind the scenes. It was an event that organize the event himself, and his
was so much work, but one that I will
See Messer, Page 11
TARGET YOUR CUSTOMERS!
gets results!
Rochelle Schultz at Motel 6 in Butte, MT did!
“My ad in Northern Rockies
Rider is paying for itself in my
first month of advertising! The fact
that my ad actually has bikes in
front of Motel 6 helps a lot! Some
businesses claim to be motorcycle
friendly, but my ad proves it! Dani
and the team at Northern Rockies
Rider, did the work, built the ad
and Motel 6 is seeing the results. I
say, “Put Your Ad Out There”!
FREE
Take one home!
Volume 1, Number 4
Yaak and
in Riding Authority”
Mounta
“Your Northern Rocky
-3250
@qwestoffice.net • 406-498
s Publication • contcom
ntal Communication
• July, 2012 • A Contine
8
Kootenai Country Figure
The Best Loops
in Montana?
Canada. It is wild and remote
and sparsely populated with
is
never much traffic. Scenery
and
stunning: rivers and lakes
trees
big mountains with big
e
including cedars, indicativ
amounts
of the relatively high
of moisture this high country
day?
receives.
wife
Such was the case when
Elevations vary from the
to ride one of
feet
Marilyn and I headed out
state’s lowest point (1,880
perhaps
–
routes
our favorite Montana
at Troy) to well over a mile
the favorite.
hundreds high.
We have been visiting with
Wildlife thrives where
Rockies
best-ofBoth
of riders from the Northern
people.
Excellent roads add to this
few
are
there
we are based
from the people and traffic.
are
region. When we mention
It’s all about getting away
whitetail and mule deer
and Yaak on Hwy. 508.
“Oh yes,
and Montana experience. Between Troy
in Montana, most observe:
present in large numbers
to) the
bears
for any distant.
I’ve ridden (or always wanted
we have seen numerous
But these routes are suitable
saying about the Yaak
in Glacier
a
have
Road
We
-The-Sun
suppose
or
oneGoing-To
We would
tone Park” and moose.
style of two-wheeled machine,
that is meant to be
were
Park,” or substitute “Yellows
and easier on and Kootenai
wolves are present and probably the
some truth: “If
two-up; just take it slower
.”
humorous, but contains
here, as in
or the “Beartooth Highway
never totally wiped out
parts, the
those
the bigger and heavier varieties.
ya go off the road in them
We always respond, “Yes,
these
rest of the state.
before search
Marilyn and I have soloed
but have you
be
bears are likely to find ya
are extraordinary rides,
Some of the pavement could
s times, but I would
numerou
routes
Kootenai
does.”
be
and
and rescue
since it can
ever ridden the Yaak
described as “primitive”
nd going with another
some friends.
with
recomme
ride
Indeed,
striping
”
Country?
most of this
broken and rough and lacking
ticket, eh?
bike/rider or several. In
But, sounds like just the
ing is
“Huh? Where’s that?”
service.
and signage. Corner engineer
country there is no cell phone
are “blind”
Well, let me tell you...
hours away.
unpredictable and many
See Loops, Page 9
’s
Medical facilities may be
timber and
This region represents Montana
be 100 miles
due to heavy growth of
Motorcycle repair could
where
roadside.
extreme northwest corner
underbrush right up to the
to
close
and
Idaho
you’re not far from
By Cole Boehler
and
“The best laid plans of mice
men often go awry.”
Who
Poet Robert Burns was right.
a tour to find
hasn’t carefully planned
hours or a
the plan on the rocks within
Subscribe
Today!
Proof that motorcycles
create lasting memories
By Dottie Rankin
For Northern Rockies Rider
and
Dad, Alzheimer’s disease
This is a story about my
cles.
the powerful effect of motorcy
might think. Well let me
A strange combination you
a
with
filled
story
this is not a
tell you before we begin,
his
personal story of my dad,
lot of statistics. This is my
cles fit into all it all.
illness and how his motorcy
own a
you
if
hype:
the
heard
No doubt you have
are,
part of you, it is who you
motorcycle it becomes a
a
matter if you have ridden
it is how you live. It doesn’t
get in
or a lifetime. Motorcycles
month, a year, 10 years
and
and head and soul. You
your blood and your heart
truly lasting memories are
your bike and rides are what
If you would like direct
home mail delivery,
send your name, mailing
address, telephone
number, e-mail address
and $25 to:
Northern Rockies Rider,
MT 59701, or contact us at
<[email protected]>
Canadian subscriptions
are $50.
made of.
and I have proof.
It’s not a cliche’. It’s true
was diagnosed with
My dad, Wayne Raasch,
Wayne Raasch, aching to
Dottie Rankin.
get his hands
once more. With daughter
on some Harley grips just
Change service requested:
MT 59701
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Permit No. 93
Livingston, MT
and author Alzheimer’s in 2009.
Two aspects to
Motorcycle
Safety
Page 15
See Memories, Page 2
Riding the
Ho Chi Minh
Trail
Page 17
-Rochelle Schultz, April 2012
If you want to get results contact Dani Rollison
at 406-490-8472 or email at [email protected]
WE BUILD
YOUR
BUSINESS
WITH YOU!
Motel 6 o
We Are R
iders!
Manager
Rochelle
Schultz an
d husban
d
Rob welco
me you!
• Motorcyc
le Friendly
• Lowest P
rices in Bu
tte
• Adjacent
to C-Store area
, Fuel, Cas
Restauran
ino,
t & Lounge
• Free W iF i, Coffee
& Cable
• Ver y Cle
an with
Friendly S
taff
• Smoking
Rooms
Available
• Laundro
mat
Facilities
f Butte
I-15/I-90 In
terchang
406-782-5
678 • mote e at Rocker - Exit 1
22
l6.com - th
en search
Butte
June 2014
Messer
freezing weather. (The
smell lingered for a week,
but the bike ran and would
from page 10 be okay.)
My friend Kirby was
focus was to raise funds for the cancer truly an ambassador of
care facility in nearby Wenatchee that
the world and lifestyle
had helped him and his family out so
of motorcycling. He
much.
loved to talk to any
There was a third “Derby’” but
rider on any machine
not long after that his health took a
just to hear their stories
downturn.
and receive their
The next machine to sort out actually
impressions, adding
belongs to one of Kirby’s nephews, whose
them like clippings into
life took a downturn back with the loss of
his scrapbook of life and Like you’d expect from a Honda too-long idled, Kirby’s ST
his uncle, and then again a couple of years
taking pictures to have
needed fresh fuel and a recharged battery to fire and run.
later losing his grandfather (Kirby’s dad).
something to look back
The 2008 GSX750R has seen better
on.
up to redline in the first three gears and still
days: down on both sides, there are broken
Toward the end, when the revived
brakes to a stop like an anchor is thrown
plastics and bent foot pegs to sort out, and
tumor was working its dark effect on
out.
the fuel in the tank smells the worst of
his gray matter, he still found and
That’ll do. (It soon finds a home with
them all. Using a vacuum pump to remove
created joy in taking before and after
another co-worker who really appreciates
as much rotten petrol as possible, I mix
pictures of his food, rejoicing in the
old Hondas.)
up a strong witches brew of three types of
captured memory of a fine meal.
I stand now in my nearly empty garage,
fuel treatment and a gallon of fresh highWe never know when it may be one accepting the realization of how much
octane, hoping the fuel injected motor will
of our last,
easier it is to bring life back to neglected
be less prone
“so eat your
motorcycles than to hold on to the wish we
than the
dessert first,”
could do it for our lost family and friends.
carbureted
he said. “That
Those bikes are all part of a legacy Kirby
bikes to
way you will
Messer has left and that continues on after
suffer major
always have
him. He knew how to embrace life and
impairment.
room for it.”
lived it to the redline.
After also
After
No one’s life ever comes with a
fitting a new
pumping six
guarantee to be easy, pleasant or long, so
battery and
gallons of
how we live each day is indeed important
bleeding/
rancid gas from so that we can leave behind us a legacy of
flushing the
the voluminous good memories.
brake system
ST tank and
And leaving a few bikes for others to
that has sat
a visual of the
enjoy after us is not a bad thing either.
empty and
inside, I charge
But, metaphorically speaking, do your
drawn in so
the
dormant
survivors
a favor: drain the gasoline.
much air that Next up was the hard-used GSXR: broken plastics, bent
battery
and
parts and...decomposed gasoline.
the calipers
Editor’s note: Author Getz’s changing
it reluctantly
and rotors
tense was deliberate, denoted by the
starts, yet does
are one, I fire it up in the confines of the
alternating type fonts and styles.
not want to idle, even warmed. I know it
cold garage. The ensuing exhaust fumes
needs a good “cleaning out” so I take it for
are caustic, chasing me out in minutes and
a chilly shake-down ride in freezing, but
leading me to open all the doors in sub
dry, weather and the old girl eagerly runs
What’s your definition of...
“a perfect ride”
Stunning mountain, forest, river and lake scenery?
Remote, peaceful riding with few cages? Good asphalt
with tons of turns? Roadways designed by engineers
who knew what they were doing? Small communities
with all the amenities? Businesses with character run
by characters? Affordability?
Ahhhh...the Pend Oreille!
We have
it all!
Northeast Washington’s finest motorcycling!
• Metaline Falls • Metaline • Ione • Tiger
• Cusick • Usk • Newport
Please be our guests.
Come ride the Pend Oreille Country.
Bring your friends. You’ll come back again
and again. It just doesn’t get any better!
Sponsored by the Pend Oreille River
Tourism Alliance whose purpose is to
create a responsible tourism economy
in the Pend Oreille River Community in
ways sensitive to the culture, heritage
and environment of the region.
www.porta-us.com • 509.447.5286
Take a ride back in time...
visit a complete and authentic mining camp buildings
with artifacts!
Take a ride over
back50
inunderground
time... filled
mine
tours!
visit a complete and authentic mining camp - over 50 building filled with artifacts! underground exhibits and tours!
Take a ride back in time...
visit a complete and authentic mining camp - over 50 building filled with artifacts! underground exhibits and tours!
There was a good turnout of Kirby’s numerous riding friends when his spirit was wished a
pleasant journey of twisty roads to eternity.
So, it doesn’t pay to advertise?
VISIT THE WORLD MUSEUM OF MINING
WHERE HISTORY TELLS A STORY.
“I placed a $35 advertisement on the “All Roads Lead to Sturgis Map”
VISIT THEwww.miningmuseum.org
WORLD MUSEUM
MINING
/ 155OF
Museum
Way, P.O. Box 33, Butte, Montana 59703
and got 21 bookings at the Sage and Sand Motel in Saratoga, Wyoming.
Phone: 406-723-7211
WHERE
HISTORY
TELLS
A
STORY.
Our next door neighbor,The Country Store, saw an increase
www.miningmuseum.org / 155 Museum Way, P.O. Box 33, Butte, Montana 59703
in their business, as well!”
Phone: 406-723-7211
Best
Montana
St.north
Exit on
offMontana
I-90/I-15upatthe
Butte,
Best route: Montana St.
Exitroute:
off I-90/I-15
at Butte,
hill tonorth
Park on Montana up the hill to Park
- Kenneth Harper Finton Sage & Sand Motel, Saratoga, WY 888-860-8339
St., left on Park and straight through the Montana Tech campus, then watch for the sign.
St., left on Park and straight through the Montana Tech campus, then watch for the sign.
June 2014
H.O.G. Rally roundup
Sure, go to Sturgis, but check out these rallies in your backyard
‘Sea To Sky’ Rally
The Canadian 14th Western Regional
H.O.G. “Sea To Sky” Rally is scheduled
for July 3-5 in Squamish, B.C. The
Executive Inn and Suites is the host
hotel, with the Friday and Saturday main
events, including entertainment, slated
for the Westcoast Heritage Railway
Museum.
This event is for all members of
H.O.G. and their guests.
Squamish is located at the north
end of Howe Sound halfway between
downtown Vancouver and Whistler’s high
alpine. It is where the ocean meets the
mountains in Sea to Sky country.
This rally is sponsored by the
Vancouver, B.C., Chapter of H.O.G.
along with Trev Deeley Motorcycles. Trev
Deeley is the “Oldest Harley Davidson
Dealer” in Canada. They were established
in 1917 and are located at 1875 Boundary
Road, Vancouver.
Trev Deeley Motorcycles will be the
destination stop on the Saturday morning
run. Rally participants will be able to
see the fabulous Deeley Motorcycle
Exhibition, which is located in the same
building as the dealership itself. This will
also be the brunch stop for the Saturday
Destination Ride. A host of other fun
activities are planned.
A Friday night Twilight Train Ride is
also planned. Your ticket to ride? Just $10.
Len Bowman, the Vancouver chapter
assistant director, said he’s very excited by
the way the rally is shaping up.
“Our volunteer response has been
outstanding,” Bowman said. “We’ve
already had hundreds, from all over,
sign up. The city of Squamish is very
enthusiastic about hosting the event and
the support from the Harley-Davidson
dealers has been great.”
The rally registration deadline is June
25, and there is a maximum attendance,
so don’t dally. The registration fee
is $70 per registrant. To obtain the
registration form, go to the rally web site
at <seatosky2014.com>. You’ll also find
the full schedule, including guided rides,
poker runs, bike games, show and shine
and so on at the site.
The PNW H.O.G. Rally, July 24-27, is
being organized for H.O.G. members and
registration, group riding seminar,
vendors, karaoke, fire pits and a DJ.
Friday expect organized rides, bike
demos and games, no-host dinner,
evening entertainment, 50/50 and raffles,
DJ and more.
Saturday features more rides and
games, a stunt and bike show, hosted
dinner, ceremonies and prize drawings,
entertainment, raffles, DJ and more.
The rally wraps up Sunday with
a pancake breakfast, a service and a
farewell ride.
For a complete slate of activities and
registration information, visit the website
at <pacificnorthwesthogrally.com>.
Home of Burnout Wednesday
august 6, 2014
(307) 283-2575
[email protected]
111 North 3rd Street
P.o. Box 1408
SuNdaNce, WyomiNg 82729
WYOMING CENTENNIAL SCENIC BYWAY
PATH OF THE PRONGHORN
ICONIC SKYLINE DRIVE TO ELKHART PARK
John Lusardi is the rally coordinator
and can be reached at <pnwhogrally@
yahoo.com>. Teri Troyer is in charge
of registration and can be contacted at
<[email protected]>.
Registration fees are $50 for members
and the same for guests. T-shirts, patches
and pins are additional.
Montana H.O.G. rally
The folks from the Billings Beartooth
H.O.G. Chapter are organizing the
Montana state rally this year and
promising three full and fun-filled days of
activities July 3-5.
“Although pre-registration
ended May 15, don’t let that
stop you; register when you get
here ($65) and say hello to rally
buddies (old and new), and tour
some of the more scenic highways
that Montana has to offer!” said
Colette Haun, rally marketing
coordinator.
The Beartooth HarleyDavidson dealership, located at
6900 South Frontage Road (just
off I-90) in Billings, is the rally
headquarters where attendees
will check in and get registered
July 3-4. The Billings Hotel and
Convention Center, located at
1223 Mullowney Lane, is the
host facility conveniently located just
down the road from the dealership,
with designated bike parking availability
throughout the weekend. Haun continued, “For all rally
attendees the Billings Hotel will feature
Thursday and Friday night Patio
barbecues starting at 6 p.m. with live
music featuring classic and southern
rock on Thursday; and chapter ‘special
entertainment’ on Friday!”
After check-in on Thursday, rally
attendees can park their bikes and
enjoy the “Taste of Billings Magic”
walkabout. A bus will be available to
See Rallies, Page 13
For Sale
2009 Victory Vision
24,000 miles, heated grips, CB radio,
Sirius radio, great storage capacity, very
smooth ride, excellent condition, one
owner, always garaged. Priced below
book at $11,000. Central Montana.
Call Kathi 406-431-5518.
Upcoming Calendar of Events
May 31st ~ MDA Poker Run
June 21st ~ 2nd Annual Anniversary Party
June 22nd ~ Pancake Breakfast & Bike Blessing
Sept. 5th ~ Battle of the Bands
Sept. 12th ~ Biker’s Against Bullies Pre-Concert Party
Sept. 13th ~ Biker’s Against Bullies Ride
Sept. 13th ~ Biker’s Against Bullies Concert
Oct. 18th ~ Chili Cook Off
Oct. 31st ~ Costume Party / Trick or Treat
Nov. 21st ~ Ladies Only Shopping Night 6-8 pm
Dec. 5th ~ Men Only Shopping Night
Dec. 6th ~ Christmas Pictures w/Santa & the Grinch 12-2 pm
5016 E. HARRIER DR
MISSOULA, MT 59808
(406)721-2154 OR
(800)431-2453
GRIZZLYHD.COM
May 26th ~ Memorial Day Ride
June 28th ~ 2nd Annual Anniversary Party
July 19th & 20th ~ Flathead Valley Treasure Hunt Rider
July 31st ~ BBQ / Sturgis send off
Aug. 23rd – Summer Recovery Party
Oct. 31st ~ Costume Party / Trick or Treat
Nov. 1st ~ Chili Cook Off
Nov. 29th ~ Ladies Only Shopping Night 6-8 pm
Dec. 5th ~ Men Only Shopping
Night 6-8 pm
2480 HWY 93 SOUTH
KALISPELL, MT 59901
(406)752-6843
GLACIERHD.COM
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Pacific Northwest (PNW)
Riding Into History Rally
guests from Idaho, Washington, Oregon,
the nation and the world. As many as
1,200 are expected to attend. It is taking
place in Spokane Valley east of Spokane
and will be centered at Lone Wolf HarleyDavidson, 19011E. Cataldo Ave.
The Rally committee announced
comedian Herb Dixon will be a portion
of the Friday night entertainment, and
said, “We have some surprises in store for
Thursday and Saturday evenings as well!”
Twelve local rides through fantastic
country on magnificent roads have been
planned and mapped.
Thursday’s schedule includes
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For many bikers the summer highlight
is the annual Harley Owners Group
(H.O.G.) rally.
In 2014 there is a single rally
scheduled for H.O.G. members in British
Columbia and Alberta, indeed for all of
Canada and all of the region. Likewise, a
single rally will serve the H.O.G. faithful
of Washington, Idaho and Oregon.
Montana, Wyoming and South
Dakota will each produce their own
statewide rallies.
June 2014
Rallies
from page 12
transport riders from the dealership
to downtown Billings (and back)
throughout the afternoon for a delightful
tour of some of Billings’ favorite spots.
“In the later afternoon, for those with
a competitive nature, attendees can sign
up for the ‘Field Events’ in the dealership
parking lot 4-6 p.m.,” Haun said. “The
prizes that can be won are worthy of the
competition!
“Friday, July 4, the real action gets
underway with a choice of 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.
rides,” Haun said. “Riders can tempt
luck on the ‘Magical Mystery Tour Poker
Run’ featuring one of our favorite routes
through the beautiful Stillwater Valley;
or take time enjoying the scenery on the
‘Great Escape’ Observation Run, over the
scenic (and chilly at the top) Beartooth
Highway. Be sure to stop at Vista
Point for a photo session with the rally
photographer.
“Not to be outdone,” she continued,
“try the ‘Wonder at the Mystery, Marvel
at the Magic’ Observation Run west
through the Boulder River Valley, on
to McLeod, and then backtrack to the
Thirsty Turtle Saloon in Big Timber on
the way back to Billings. “At 4:30 riders meet at MetraPark, for
a police-escorted Rally Parade which will
showcase beautiful downtown Billings.” Haun said, “Sat., July 5 enjoy any of
the runs missed on Friday (since they
bear repeating). For those who want to
kick back and relax, there’s always the
‘Members Bike Show’ from 4-6 p.m.
Riders will be able to park it and hang
out at the dealership, and peruse the
dealership merchandise or the product
vendors – pin striping, L.E.D. lights,
beaver pelts, boots, patches (with a
stitcher present), food and beverage and
more. “The Closing Ceremonies and
Banquet wrap it all up at 7 p.m.,” Haun
noted, “at the host hotel with a hosted
dinner, great prizes and the usual rally
accolades.
“Sunday, July 6, there will be a 9 a.m.
bike blessing for a little extra good luck
before riders head back home or to other
destinations.”
Beatrice Rice heads up registration
and can be reached at <[email protected]>
or 406-698-3450. LeRoy Bates is the rally
coordinator who can be contacted at
<[email protected]> or 406967-2004. The rally website and more
detailed information can be found at
<mtstatehogrally.com>.
avail themselves of horseback riding and
fishing at the Rockin’ M Ranch 7 a.m.-5
p.m., or how about a little whitewater
rafting 7 a.m.-7 p.m.? Registration will
be open 1-6 p.m. and vendors will be
showing their wares.
A poker run is scheduled for that day
1:30-6 p.m. with a bike wash available,
and a “meet and greet” social from 7-10
p.m.
Thursday is more of the same:
horseback riding, fishing, whitewater
fun and poker run. A self-guided
“observation run” is slated from 8 a.m.6 p.m. with a bike wash almost all day.
Vendors will be on hand and another
social will occur at Grey’s River Cove RV
Park.
Friday hosts a life-members breakfast
along with the other activities. A
“walking poker run” will be conducted in
Jackson Hole 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with a social
event from 6-9 p.m at the city park.
The final day, Sat., July 12, also has the
usual activities with the addition of onbike games from 8:45-10:30 a.m., a bike
show from 10:30 a.m.-noon and off-bike
games from 10:45 a.m.-noon. The banquet
and awards BBQ run from 1-3 p.m.
Whew!
The event web site, found at
<wystatehogrally.com> lists numerous
camping and hotel accommodations.
Eric Keyes is the coordinator and can be
reached at 307-421-0067 or <ezeekeyes@
bresnan.net>; Scott Nelson is heading up
registration and is available at 307-2868773 and <[email protected]>.
begins with guided and unguided rides,
but also biker games from 9-10:30 a.m.
at the casino/hotel. That day’s poker run/
scavenger hunt concludes at 3 p.m., just
in time for...
Root beer floats and socializing will
take place at the Terry Redlin Center
running 3:30-4:30 p.m. with a group
photo taken at 3:45. The blessing of the
bikes and lining up for the parade runs
4-5 p.m. with the parade arriving at the
host lodge at 5:30.
There is a catered dinner set for
6:30-7:30 p.m. Closing ceremonies
begin at 7 p.m. and conclude at 9 p.m.
Entertainment, “Duelling Pianos” by
Crazy Keys, commences at 8 p.m. and
runs to 11 p.m.
On-site registration will be available
during the event, but pre-registration is
closed.
The rally coordinator is Sharon
Johnson. She can be reached at
<[email protected]>.
Directions: From I-29, take exit 185
and then 4.5 miles west; from Watertown
city limits, from Hwy. 20 North, take a
right at Sioux Conifer Road and go 5.3
miles; from Watertown city limits North
Hwy. 81, go straight continuing north on
County Road 11, go five miles, turn left
on County Road 6 for two miles.
3000-28th Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 1W1
Phone: 1-855-545-2161 (toll free USA & CANADA) • Local Phone: 250 545-2161
E-mail: [email protected] • www.journey-inn.com
‘Catch Glacial Lake
Dream’ at SD H.O.G.
For some folks, a motorcycle rally
experience more sane than, say, Sturgis,
is just the ticket. Those may be heading
for Watertown for the South Dakota State
H.O.G. Rally June 19-21.
The host facility is the Dakota Sioux
Casino and Hotel.
The social functions get underway at 6
p.m. Thursday at the Goss Opera House,
with free tours, live music and food.
Friday a guided tour to Fort Sisseton
assembles at 8 a.m.; it returns by 4 p.m.
There will also be other guided and
unguided rides available. A scavenger
hunt/poker run will be occurring
simultaneously until 9 p.m. that evening.
The dealership party takes place 6-9 p.m.
at Glacial Lakes Harley-Davidson.
Clearly, Saturday is the big day! It
Motorcycle Friendly!
Special rates for riders!
• Air Conditioning
• Breakfast Coupon
• Bar Fridge
• Outdoor Heated Seasonal Pool
• Free Internet Wi-Fi
• Cable TV (45 Channels)
• Complimentary In-room Coffee
Friendly staff and a clean, comfortable,
convenient downtown location!
The Motorcycle Attorney Since 1977
37 Years of Extensive Successful Experience
Wyoming state
H.O.G. rally
The H.O.G. folks down Wyoming
way have set their state rally for July 9-12
in Alpine situated at the southern end
of the Snake River Canyon. This is near
the magnificent Teton Range and you
can expect an awesome ride along the
Star Valley Scenic Byway through Grand
Teton and Yellowstone National Parks.
Rally registration will take place
at Donn Wooden Event Center in the
middle of Alpine. The pre-registration fee
was $55 for members and the same for
guests (closed May 21), and includes a
T-shirt, pin and a BBQ feed at the awards
banquet (T-shirt not included for guests).
Onsite the fee remains $55 but does not
include a T-shirt. Pins may be gone. Your
awards banquet BBQ meal is included.
Wednesday, July 9, participants may
I Ride & I Understand
Call for a Free Consultation
509-924-4825
CHUCK T. CONRAD
9011 E. Valleyway Spokane Valley
www.LawShark.com
PRODUCT REVIEW
June 2014
Firstgear ‘Rainman’ is well designed,
effective barrier to precip, cold
By Cole Boehler
Here’s one of those hard-and-fast
laws of physics: a rain suit will only fail...
when it’s raining!
And a corollary: a rain suit will leak
first only in the worst possible spot...the
crotch.
Any rider who has experienced such
a failure will tell you a cold, wet crotch
will turn an otherwise acceptable ride
into a miserable experience from hell.
During an extended tour in the
Colorado mountains in 2010, my old,
but of proven value, Dry Rider brand
rain suit failed...in a rainstorm, leaking
at the crotch.
Our readers know of my penchant
to attempt repair first before discarding
motorcycle gear. Some seam sealer kept
the Dry Rider in service for two more
seasons, then it leaked again in the same
spot. Definitely time for a new rain suit!
But first a few other shortcomings of
that raingear.
The wrist cuffs were only secured
by elastic and the ankle cuffs only by a
hook-and-loop closure. Try getting your
heavy glove gauntlets under tight elastic
cuffs; it was always a struggle. And try
keeping the bottoms of riding pants dry
when they tend to protrude outside the
rain pants. It never worked.
The wimpy elastic stirrups didn’t
firmly keep the pant bottom pulled
down and they frayed until one finally
broke, exacerbating the problem.
In addition, it was an exertion getting
into the gear since the inside of the suit
was of a rubbery texture that was sticky
when being applied over damp riding
clothes, particularly leather, and the stuff
just didn’t breath. Inevitably, underapparel was damp and clammy from
perspiration, and thus chilly, once the
rain suit was removed.
Finally, the pants were held up by
suspenders that lost elasticity so had to
be occasionally shortened. The tall bib
pant top was extra weather protection
but had to be pulled far down to access
pockets in my riding pants, and were
a real pain when it came time to take a
leak. To access my fly, I had to remove
the rain jacket to pull the suspenders
off my shoulders to get the bib down far
enough to...
The old suit was also entirely black
so lacked much enhancement of the
conspicuity factor, other than a few
swatches of reflective material.
Now that I think about it, perhaps the
old suit should have gone to the landfill
long ago!
Thank goodness real riders are
designing rain suits these days. Actual
riders understand these issues and will
design gear to deal with them.
So, on a cold and wintery April
Wednesday, the UPS man brought my
new Firstgear “Rainman” suit.
I ordered a two-piece – no question
World Famous
– as I’d watched my wife struggle
into her old one-piece too many
times (her current suit is two-piece:
lesson learned). I also got the XL size
because 90 percent of the time when
it rains in the Northern Rockies, it’s
also cold, so that means many under
layers, leaving us looking like the
puffy Michelin Man.
I needed a rain coat large enough
to accommodate an armored textile
riding jacket, and rain pants to
protect my armored leather and my
denim riding pants.
Out of the box and transparent
storage cases, I began to spy clever
features, one after another.
The ‘Rainman’ jacket
High-viz yellow (also in silver)
with some black trim accents;
triple-layer weather flaps covering
The Firstgear “Rainman” is thoughtfully designed
the robust plastic zipper and sealed
and apparently effective. It looks pretty good,
with hook-and-loop (h&l) strips;
too. Can’t say the same about our “model” (the
two chest pockets with double
author).
h&l closures; and a soft, fabriclined collar with h&l closure at the
string with cord locks at the very jacket
throat and with hood stowed inside. An
bottom to keep out air and water.
attached hood worn under a helmet will
Wrist closures of two-inch elastic and
prevent cold water running down your
h&l (open the h&l flap to more easily
neck, a veritable luxury once you’ve
pull the sleeve over your glove gauntlet,
experienced the sensation.
snug it, then allow the broad band of
There was more: a trick adjustable
elastic to keep it water and airtight); and
cinch belt to keep the middle waist snug
reflective piping and emblem, curiously
and to prevent fluttering, with a cinch
See Rainman, Page 15
e
m
a
h
S
y
t
Dir
Saloon...
in Yaak Montana
The Annual Crawdad Festival
returns to the Dirty Shame Saloon on June 13th - 15th, 2014
Live music, live crawdads, etc. The biggest event in the Yaak.
Call 295-5100 for reservations & info.
Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner - Lodging - Laundromat
www.dirtyshamesaloon.net • 406-295-5100
World Famous Dirty Shame Saloon
June 2014
Rainman
Struggling with the cuffs while wearing
my wet gloves left some unfortunate
black smudges on the bright yellow
fabric.
The strip of h&l material at the
sleeve cuff could have been longer for a
from page 14
only on the back.
And still more: “Hypertex” fabric
combo is waterproof nylon outside while
the inner liner is a slick, breathable
nylon that should slide easily over base
layers or riding jackets; a built-in stuff
sack at the bottom rear with an elastic
draw-string closure (we could not
figure out how to stow the draw string
when not in use, meaning it hung out
from the backside of the jacket, and the
drawstring had no cord lock); forwardtapered sleeves and a drop-back for extra
coverage at the rear bottom.
Whew! O yes, and a fabric loop to
hang the jacket on a hook to dry at the
end of the day.
That’s some design prowess,
addressing practically every shortcoming
of our previous rain jacket.
The ‘Rainman’ pants
On to the pants, also neatly featured:
The same Hypertex outer and inner
fabrics (black only) for breathable
waterproofing; a wide two-inch elastic
waist band to seal out weather; (just) one
side pocket but of generous proportions
to accept a wallet, keys and more with a
h&l storm closure; and a heat resistant
panel of tough-looking (cordura?) fabric
from the knee to ankle along the shin.
The calf features a stout knee-toankle side zipper with a large expansion
pleat to allow boots easy egress and
ingress (the expanded leg opening is
about 10-inches in diameter), coupled
with ankle cuffs that follow the jacket
design – a wide elastic band and h&l
closure flap. So, easy-on/easy-off, cuffs
snuggly closed protecting the under
riding pants... Nice!
And a loop for hanging the pants
from a hook.
We liked this suit and looked forward
to giving it a trial in a long, rainy ride.
Alas, the pant design is totally
conventional when it comes to insidethe-leg seams and the seams that run
up the front and the butt – they meet
at a four-way junction right smack in
the crotch. This is right where the most
stress on stitching – and sealing – will
occur.
There is no evidence that this
crucial seam intersection has been
extraordinarily reinforced. On the other
hand, all stitching appears to be uniform
and of quality. We will see...
The real-world test
As luck(?) would have it, two days
See Rainman, Page 16
GUIDED MOTORCYCLE
ADVENTURE TOURS
Guided Motorcycle
Tours for Dual Sport
Riders of All Abilities
We went and found some rain and cold over in the Big Hole Valley at above 6,000 feet. After
70 miles of precip, there were no leaks whatsoever.
after the Firstgear suit arrived the
weather guys were calling for a 90
percent chance of precip and a high of
49 degrees – perfect conditions for a
valid test of the suit, since they must
provide waterproofing, additional wind
protection and, ultimately, a final layer of
insulation and warmth in foul weather.
It took a 150-mile ride to find 70
miles of rain. I purposely took my
adventure bike as it offers far less
weather protection than my fully faired,
large-windshield sport-tourer, though it
does have hand guards. I also with intent
rode some four-lane to assure I could
ride in heavy truck spray.
I waited to don the suit until I had
ridden in some sprinkles so my riding
gear was slightly damp, yet the Rainman
suit slid on easily, even over leather
riding pants.
I especially liked the zippered gussets
at the bottom of the leg which allowed
the boot to pass through with no cussing
and unseemly hopping around on one
foot.
The XL pants were a little long in the
conventional sense (I have a 32-inch
inseam) but simply allowed for more
coverage above the belt when hoisted
up, and ample protection all the way to
the ankle (which was nicely sealed) even
when in a riding posture. Nor did they
bind and stretch too tightly at the crotch
when straddling the saddle.
The stout elastic waist band worked
fine for my 38-inch middle.
And, oh yes, I did subject the pants
to the old roadside pee test (for males
only... usually; this is the rural west
where often traffic is totally absent). I
could work them down far enough to
allow fairly direct access to the fly in my
Family Owned and Operated
Stay/Play Golf Package • Showdown Ski/Stay Package
Continental Breakfast • Free Wireless Internet
Giant Hot Tub • Fireplace in Lobby
Guest Laundry • Meeting Room
riding pants without having to unzip
the jacket or go though any other major
contortions. I could also access the
contents of my riding pants pockets.
The Rainman jacket, even though
an XL, was a bit snug (I wear a size-46);
in hindsight, a 2XL or even 3XL would
have been more (ahem) suitable. But
I was also heavily layered with a light
thermal undershirt, a cotton T-shirt, a
heavy flannel and then a bulky armored
textile jacket, sans liner.
It fit well enough through the trunk
but was tight at the neck and cuffs and
the sleeves could have been a bit longer.
My arms are somewhat long and my
wrists are thick (yes, I’m a “husky” guy).
I also have a thick (fat?) size-18 neck and
combined with the somewhat bulky neck
closure of my riding jacket, I had to pull
and tug to get the rain suit collar h&l
closures to mate up. It was tight enough
to be verging on uncomfortable.
While I could get the rain garment’s
cuffs over the bulky gauntlets of my
cold-weather gloves, it wasn’t as simple
as I’d have liked. Since my gloves are
water proof, I suppose the gauntlet could
actually go over the rain jacket cuff.
GREAT DIVIDE DUAL
SPORT ADVENTURES, LLC
www.greatdividemcadv.com
406-250-2637
[email protected]
Business Owners...
Do you want more motorcycle traffic?
Sturgis
All roads lead to
Please visit these supportive establishments on your way to and from Sturgis!
Kaslo Hotel
Riders are welcome at
the Kaslo Hotel! Try our Pub!
250-353-7714
430 Front St.
Kaslo, BC
British Columbia
Rainbow Beach
Resort
Cabins,RV,Tents sites, Deli,
Snacks,Clean Showers and
Bathrooms
509-722-5901
18 N. Twin Lakes Rd.
Inchelium, WA
Grand Coulee
Center Lodge
Close to Laser Light Show. Clean,
comfortable and friendly. Wi-fi.
509-633-2860
404 Spokane Way
Grand Coulee, WA
Panhead Hill Cycle Supply
Serving Bikers Since 1988, parts,
accessories & service
509-447-2076; 1-888-661-6650
303 W. 3rd St., Newport, WA
Inchelium
Spokane
Colfax
Washington
Best Western
Plus Wheatland Inn
Great rider rates!
Full, hot breakfast!
509-397-0397
701 N. Main St.
Colfax, WA
Cruisers Bar & Grill
The Only Biker Bar Where a
“Road Runs Through it!”
208-773-4706
6105 W. Seltice Way
State Line, ID
Troy
Glacier
Harley-Davidson
Eureka
Saskatchewan
Village Dining
& Lounge/Casino
Casino, Full Lounge, Steaks,
Seafood, Lunches, Microbrews,
Next to Grocery, Gas and Motel
406-873-5005, 601 West
Main St., US Hwy 2
Cut Bank, MT
Kalispell
Cut Bank
Lakeside
Thompson
Falls
Haugan
St. Regis
Stang’s Market &
Liqour Store
Sinclair gasoline - State Liquor
Agency store - Coolest spot in town
406-649-2414
85 Old Highway 10
St. Regis, MT
Konkolville Motel
Clean • Comfortable • “Grill Your
Own” Steak Dinner • Outdoor pool
& spa
208-476-5584; 800-616-1964
2600 Michigan Ave.
Orofino, ID
Brooks Street Motor Inn Grizzly Harley-Davidson
Park at your door by clean
406-721-2154
and comfortable rooms!
5106 East
800-538-3260
Harrier
3333 Brooks Street
Missoula, MT
Missoula, MT
Polson Elliston
Missoula
Kamiah
Philipsburg
Glasgow
Sports City Cyclery
Your motorcycle’s pit stop
destination.
406-727-8566; 406-727-7916
101 57th St. S.
Great Falls, ID
Helena
Butte
Montana
The Bank Bar
Come as a stranger, leave as a
friend. Biker Friendly!
406-578-2151
102 N. Elliot St.
Wilsall, MT
Wilsall
Glendive
Touch of
Health Massage
Integrative massage, specializing
in Cranio-Sacral therapy and
Reflexology
406-377-7973
100 Merrill Ave., Suite #14
Glendive, MT
Red Lodge Inn
Clean • Comfortable • Park
at your door • Wash station •
Continental Breakfast
406-446-2030
817 South Broadway
Red Lodge, MT
Red Lodge
Bike Shack
Montana’s Motorcycle Tire
Headquarters
406-556-4464
22 Shawnee Way
Bozeman, MT
Carter Mountain Motel
Your family-owned home
away from home
307-587-4295
1701 17th St., Cody, WY
Irma Hotel
Cody’s “gathering place”
for any local event!
800-745-4762
Cody Motor Lodge
1192 Sheridan Ave. Comfort and Affordability
Cody, WY
in the heart of Cody
800-340-CODY
1455 Sheridan Ave., Cody, WY
Challis
Idaho
Falls
Billings Chamber
of Commerce and
Convention Center
We invite you to visit Billings,
Montana’s Trailhead! Welcome!
406-869-3732, 815 S. 27th St.
Billings, MT
Shell
Greybull
Thermopolis
Jackson
Dubois
Pronghorn Lodge
Parking at door, 1 block
from town, Restaurant and
Continental Breakfast!
Special Arrangements
307-332-3940
Locally owned/operated
150 E. Main
Flower & Gift shop selling
Lander, WY
fine chocolates.
307-332-5480, 654 Main St.
Lander, WY
Flaming Gorge
Harley-Davidson
NEW LOCATION
Exits 91 & 89, 440 Uinta
Hwy. 530 S. Green River
307-875-5896
Green River, WY
Evanston
Occidental
Hotel & Saloon
A Great Place to Stay!
307-684-0451
10 N. Main
Buffalo, WY
Buffalo
Greybull Chamber of Commerce
Visit Greybull, Gateway to Any Great
Big Horn Mountain Getaway
307-765-2100, 521 Greybull Avenue
Greybull, WY
Shorty’s Saloon
Days Inn
Coldest but friendliest
Beautiful Wind River
watering hole in Wyoming!
Canyon - Soak, Stay, Play, 307-864-3641
Natural Hot Springs
103 E. Broadway
307-864-3131, 115 E. Park St.
Thermopolis, WY
Thermopolis, WY
Lander
Flaming Gorge
Harley-Davidson
MOVED! NEW LOCATION
Exits 91 & 89 Hwy. 530 S. Green River.
307-875-5896
Green River, WY
Green River Rock Springs
Wibaux
Beaver Creek Brewery
& Gem Theater
Craft Beer, Food, Wine, Live Music
and Beer Garden
406-795-2337
104 Orgain Ave.
Wibaux, MT
South Dakota
Alzada
307-674-9336
1373 Coffeen Ave.
Sheridan, WY
Sheridan
Shell Campground
Very Comfortable Cabins. Bikers please
stop and enjoy, Shell Wyoming!
307-765-9924, 102 1st St, Shell, WY
Lava Mountain Lodge
Biker Friendly, on the brand new
Togwotee Trail to Yellowstone!
307-455-2506
3577 U.S. 26, Dubois, WY
North Dakota
Stoneville Saloon
Cheap Drinks-Lousy Food
Conveniently Located in the
Middle of Nowhere!
406-828-4404
13680 US Hwy 212
Alzada, MT
Billings
Wyoming
High Country Lodge
Fuel, Tools, Restrooms, Lodging, Showers,
Food, Beer and the Managers are Bikers!
307-529-0914, Forest Road 13 and
Hwy 14a; Between Lovell, WY &
Burgess Jct, WY on Hwy14a
Lovell, WY
Lovell
Cody
Action Motor Sports
New Victory, Honda, Kawasaki,
Suzuki, lots of used Harleys...
tire and oil change deals
208-522-3050
1355 E. Lincoln Rd.
Idaho Falls, ID
Waterhole #3
Coldest Beer in
Eastern Montana!
406-742-5224
416 Ellery Ave.
Fairview, MT
Fairview
All Seasons Inn & Suites
Free WI-FI, continental breakfast,
hot tub, friendly, clean, and relaxing
406-547-8888, 808 3rd Ave. SW
White Sulphur Springs, MT
Red Ants Pants
US made workwear for
women, great for riding!
406-547-3781
206 East Main St.
White Sulphur
Springs, MT
Bozeman
Motel 6/Butte
406-782-5678, 120005 Nissler Rd.
Butte, MT
World Museum of Mining
Underground Mine Tour,
Cultural & Mining Artifacts
406-723-7211
155 Musuem Way
Butte, MT
Here’s a handy guide to businesses you can
rely on during your travels to and from
Sturgis, the Motorcycle Mecca!
Great
Falls
White Sulphur Springs
The Village Inn Motel
and Restaurant
Clean, comfortable rooms, hot tub & full service restaurant on site
208-879-2239
300 S. US Hwy 93
Challis, ID
Idaho
Cottonwood Inn
and Suites
145 rooms, resaurant,
lounge and indoor pool
406-228-8213
Hwy 2 East
Glasgow, MT
Shelby
Rock Creek Lodge
Welcome Travelers! Gas,
Food, Bar and Home of
Eddy’s Motel
the Testicle Festival!
Clean, Afordable, Ground Floor
406-825-4868
Rooms at a Great Location!
7 Rock Creek Rd.
406-723-4364
Clinton, MT
1205 S. Montana
Butte, MT
S.i.C. Tattoos
Specializing in custom
tattoos: ours or yours
406-782-4034, 1940 C St.
Butte, MT
Milltown
Clinton
Harold’s Club
Friendly & Fun! Beer
on ice! Great Burgers!
Gambling! Pool! Darts!
A Great Massage
406-258-6932
$45-$90 Massage &
Hearthstone Restraunt
63 Daytona Loop
Far Infrared Sauna. Bakery/Hearthstone Lodge
Milltown, MT
Friendly, delicious food, www.georgia.massagetherapy.com
Comfortable luxury N/S lodge, 208-935-5616, 711 2nd St. So.
Kamiah, ID
fireplaces, jacuzzis and king beds.
208-935-1492, 502 Main St.
The Lewis &
Kamiah, ID
Sunshine Station
Clark Resort
Restaurant; Breakfast,
Clean & Comfortable Rooms,
Lunch and Dinner.
Cabins & Camping. Cafe on site.
Where Hospitality is King!
www.lewisclarkresort.com
406-859-3450
208-935-2556, 4243 Hwy 12
3830 Hwy 1
Kamiah, ID
Philipsburg, MT
Orofino
Motorcyclists love good roads, but they need good
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some of the best and most motorcycle-friendly enterprises
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entertainment... and of course bike shops with service,
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First & Last
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Liquor, Beer, Food & Gaming!
Free camping as well as a Duty
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406-889-3443
7906 Hwy 93 N.
Eureka, MT
406-752-6843, 2480 US 93
Kalispell, MT
Lincoln’s 50,000
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Silver $ Bar
Edgewater RV Resort & Motel
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Montana’s Largest Gift Shop,
Lodging on Flathead Lake, wonderful
• At Door Parking • Cleaning Station
Restaurant and Casino,
all furnished Cabins, Condo rooms
406-827-3559, 112 S. Gallatin St.
Super Clean Restrooms
and motel by the lake
Thompson Falls, MT
406-678-4242, Exit 16 I-90
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Haugan, MT
Lakeside, MT
Miracle of America Museum
H&H Trikes Inc.
Silver Express
Silver $ Inn
Best Vintage Motorcycle Museum
Dealer for Lehman
Convenience Store Clean and Comfortable,
Lawdog’s Saloon
in the West. Biker Friendly.
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Helena, MT
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Elliston, MT
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Creston, BC
Yaak River
Tavern & Mercantile
Food, Full Beverage Service,
Gas, Snacks, Overlooking
the Beautiful Yaak River
406-295-4706
29238 Yaak River Rd.
Troy, MT
Newport
State Line
Scott Motorsports
Auto Restoration
Motorcycle body shop, here
to help with what we can!!
509-928-8989
11907 E. Empire Ave.
Spokane Valley, WA
Grand Coulee
Kaslo
Creston
Jake’s Tavern
Happy Hour Daily 4-7 pm.
Nearly World Famous!
(307) 686-3781
5201 S Douglas Hwy.
Gillette, WY
STURGIS
307-682-6887
2510 S. Douglas Hwy.
Gillette, WY
Gillette
Perkins Tavern
Experience Old-Town
Newcastle!!!
307-746-3382
114 W. Main
New Castle, WY
Casper
Rapid City
New Castle
Back Roads Inn
& Cabins
A Great Place to Stay!
866-642-2246
13350 Silver Mountain Rd.
Rapid City, SD
307-215-8440
4710 E. 2nd Street
Casper, WY
The Chop Shop
One “Really Cool” Bike Shop!
307-234-6441
3233 CY Avenue
Casper, WY
Douglas
Wyoming
Rawlins
KOA Campground
We are a motorcyclefriendly campground! 800-562-7559
205 E. Highway 71
Rawlins, WY
Rawlins
Sage and Sand Motel
Park at your door, video security and economical. Near a FREE thermal hot springs!
307-326-8339, 311 S. First
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204 S. 30th St.
Laramie, WY
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Cheyenne, WY
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877-314-0241
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“All Roads Lead to Sturgis”
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Call Dani at 406-490-8472
or email
[email protected]
June 2014
Rainman
contained stuff sack,
then found I could also
cram the pants in there,
too, even though they
have their own integral
sack. Unfortunately, the
drawstring has no cord
lock.
But the package was
not the ideal shape for
stowage in our tank
bag, which is where
we keep raingear for
easy and quick access.
Both pieces in one
sack measured about
six inches wide by
eight inches long by
six inches thick. I’ll
probably revert to
rolling the suit and
using fat rubber bands
as I have previously.
Maintenance ought
to be a snap: simply
drop them into the
washer on a delicate
setting using mild soap,
no bleach, then hang
them to dry.
from page 15
wider range of adjustment, i.e. a tighter
closure, though no air or rain leaked in.
Another inch or two at the neck, cuffs
and sleeves would have made the jacket
easier and quicker to apply (which is
important when a nasty squall is bearing
down) and with less binding would have
added a small measure of additional
comfort. That’s not the designer’s or
manufacturer’s fault; it was mine.
Just order a size larger than you are
accustomed to if you often ride heavily
bundled up.
I’m sure the company would have
allowed for an exchange but I could
hardly ask for that after having ridden
in actual wet weather and smudging the
sleeves.
However, Greayer Clover, Firstgear
product manager for Tucker Rocky,
a national motorcycle accessories
distributor, told us, “We sell all of our
jackets and pants separately so a rider
can choose any color/size combination
he/she wants. Pants definitely have a
higher attrition rate, too, so someone
who rides a lot may go through several
pants before a rain jacket needs to be
replaced.”
He continued, “And a word on sizing:
we size our raingear to accommodate
protective apparel underneath. So if
you’re an XL riding jacket, get the XL
rain jacket. It is purposely designed
to fit over the riding jacket. In other
words, that same XL rain jacket will be
‘big’ if worn without the riding jacket
underneath. We do that so there’s no
second guessing for the customer. Just
order your size as you would anything
else.”
Once sealed up, I felt no leaks
anywhere and confirmed this upon
arrival home – there were no wets spots
anywhere on my riding clothes. Later,
a good soaking with the garden hose
netted the same result. I would bet a full
day in heavy downpour would be no
different.
Riding at up to 75 mph, there was
minimal distracting flutter. That might
increase somewhat with a larger, looser
top.
Best yet, my under layers did not feel
damp and clammy since the Hypertex
fabric lives up to its billing: waterproof
and breathable.
I stowed the jacket inside it’s self-
All roads lead to
Sturgis
Business Owners...
Do you want more motorcycle
traffic?
on the Northern Rockies Rider
map.
or email
[email protected]
We subjected the “Rainman” to “the ol’ hose test.” In this case,
we deployed the integrated hood to keep water from entering
from the back of the neck. All remained dry.
The investment
We saw the pants
www.NorthernRockiesRider.com (not yet live)
with an MSRP of $69.95 but available on
the Internet as low as $59; the jacket at
MSRP $89.95 but available at $81.
A rain suit at $140 is not cheap, but
a rain suit that leaks is never a bargain.
If it lasts reasonably long – seriously,
I’d expect 10 years – the “Rainman” by
Firstgear will represent a reasonable
value.
Internet consumer evaluations were
generally very positive.
SM, MD, LG, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL
Satisfaction rating - 4.5 stars
Features
• .18mm 70 denier nylon with full
nylon slip lining
• Heat-resistant material from knee to
ankle
• Dual storm closure pockets
• Integrated stuff sack
• Adjustable webbing belt
• 3M Scotchlite reflective logo
• Integrated rain hood stores in collar
• Pants available in black only
• ‘Rainman’ pant and jacket sold
separately
• 90-day limited manufacturer’s
warranty
FREE
Volume 1, Number 1 • April, 2012 • A Continental Communications Publication • [email protected] • 406-498-3250
Free to readers
Look for it at your local motorcycle and
motorcycle-friendly businesses, and
thank them for carrying it!
June 2014
Passenger Perspective
Long ‘dry’ spell makes that first ride of the season more special
By Marilyn Irey
NRR Contributing Writer
pastures were all spectacular.
clustered traffic we had been seeing. Oh well, with 45
The sights and smells of spring are a tonic for the
MPH as the Park speed limit, slow going is not a big
soul, but are better appreciated on a motorcycle rather
issue.
It was an exceptionally long winter for me and I
than when caged in a four-wheel vehicle.
As we neared Gardiner we saw a lot more wildlife
was eager for the weather to warm to a comfortable
I noticed as we soared south toward West
– some young buffalo calves were stirring up the dust,
temperature for riding.
Yellowstone that the miles really slipped by. Sometimes
a large herd of elk was moving and some sheep (Big
Cole had been out a
I find the long straight stretch
Horns?) calmly watched the traffic pass.
few times but doctor’s
of the upper Madison Valley
Another herd was made up of several tour busses
orders had prevented me
tedious, but that day it was all
with foreign tourists who seemed really excited as they
from putting any weight
good because I was back on the
pointed at us, I presume because of seeing motorcycles
on my fractured left foot,
bike
at
last!
when there was snow along the edges of the road.
Marilyn Irey
so it was impossible to
After gassing in West
No other motorcyclists were in the park but we
Contributing Writer
get on the bike. Finally I
Yellowstone, our three-bike group did see a group cruising the “main drag” in Gardiner.
got cleared and was ready
entered the park. It took awhile
I’ve never been a fan of riding around town looking at
to go... Oh no, family
to see some wildlife, but I finally
buildings or cars. Also, I had just finished the longest
medical emergency in
spotted a few buffalo and elk
indoor winter I can recall in years.
Arizona!
grazing.
I’m really ready for the upcoming weekend ride. We
Torture is watching bikes cruise in sunny Arizona
There was still a considerable amount of snow at
have two-and-a-half days of riding therapy ahead and
when I’ve been off the bike for six months! I was so
this high elevation but the sunny skies made everything
it can only mean my recovery is complete and I’ll be
envious every time I saw
feeling better every day!
riders that I was scheming
how I could get away from
Oh, give me land, lots of land under
the family at the hospital
starry skies above
without feeling too much
Don’t fence me in
guilt, and beg my cousin
Let me ride through the wide open
Eugene to take me out for
country that I love
a ride.
Don’t fence me in
Naturally we had nice
Let me be by myself in the evenin’ breeze
weather at home when I
And listen to the murmur of the
was gone so Cole enjoyed
cottonwood trees
some outings. When I
Send me off forever but I ask you please
finally returned home the
Don’t fence me in
weather took another turn
back to winter.
Just turn me loose, let me straddle my
By now I have a bad
old saddle
case of withdrawals – it’s
Underneath the western skies
been more than 10 years
On my cayuse, let me wander over
since I have had a sixyonder
month hiatus from riding
Till I see the mountains rise
on a motorcycle. I was
literally staring to dream
I want to ride to the ridge where the
about riding. west commences
At last I got the “throttle
And gaze at the moon till I lose my
therapy” that I needed
senses
with a brief trip the first
And I can’t look at hobbles and I can’t
weekend of May. I was
stand fences
Our early May ride crew, from left: Cole Boehler (Butte), Scott R. Boehler (Livingston), Mark Iwaniak (Butte), Tim
suddenly feeling more
Don’t
fence me in
Miller (Glendive). Breakfast break in Ennis, Mont.
upbeat and enthusiastic by
the time we reached our
Thanks, Cole Porter!
designated meeting place.
cozy. We were unable to go past Old Faithful because the
Even though my legs were a little cold, it would
road beyond this popular
have to be described as invigorating to feel the nippy
site has not had the
35-degree air at 8 a.m. Fresh air at 70 mph makes all
snowplowing completed.
of your senses wake up. Even the marginal cafe coffee
We turned north
perked up my taste buds.
toward Norris Junction and
I can assure you that everything looked wonderful
Gardiner only to encounter
from the motorcycle passenger’s perspective. Pussy
our first road construction
willows, silver leaves budding, darting sparrows and red- of the riding season. That
winged blackbirds, spring calves romping in the green
explained the amount of
Last Chance MC club is
planning ‘soft’ rally Sept. 13
The Last Chance Riders Motorcycle
Club, based out of Helena, Mont.,
recently announced their intention to
conduct a “soft” long-distance rally
loosely based on more formal and
stringent rallies such as the Big Sky “Into
The Unknown” Rally (August, 2013).
They are calling it “The Last Chance
Montana 500.”
A club spokesperson, Kathi Wenz,
emphasizing that specifics are still
in planning stages, said the rally has
been scheduled for Sat., Sept. 13 and
will launch from the Helena K-Mart
parking lot. The group is in the process
of developing a set of rally bonus waypoints, some of which may be available
over gravel routes.
Check-in for the rally will occur
between 6 and 7 a.m. The deadline for
checking in at the rally’s conclusion and
being considered for a “qualified” finish
status will be 7 p.m. Qualified finishers
must also log a minimum of 500 miles
during the day verified with odometer
readings.
Bonus points earned will be
documented by participants using
digital photography and/or gas receipts.
The rally is open to club members as
well as the general riding public. Watch
future editions of Northern Rockies Rider
for more details as they develop.
The LCRMC is a diversified group
of motorcycle enthusiasts who enjoy all
types and aspects of riding motorcycles.
June 2014
KTM 1190
from page 3
a reason they hand you the tool kit with
the title! Luckily, it only takes 15 minutes
to eliminate this canister and restore the
space for tools and zip ties. KTM must
have seen this coming as the canister is
mounted in a quick release bracket.
On the plus side, adding electrical
accessories is easy thanks to KTM’s
addition of 12V connections located
in the fairing. A circuit of “always hot”
and available “ignition switched” power
is factory. The spade connections are
tucked up safely under the fairing. My
Garmin GPS was a cinch to tie into the
ignition-switched power.
While on the subject of accessories,
CHASSIS
KTM offers heated grips through their
Power Parts catalog which interface with
the onboard computer, dash display,
and operate on a dedicated power
circuit – truly “plug ‘n’ play.” They are
the most expensive heated grips I’ve
ever seen, but the function, integration,
and usability is top notch. No buyer’s
remorse there.
All in all, the 1190 Adventure is well
made, overpowered and a blast to ride.
I look forward to a great season of
meandering and exploration.
Sam Park is a lifelong motorcycle
enthusiast/rider who definitely is biased
toward performance, whether it’s working
out on a good section of twisties or
playing on canyon Forest Service roads,
and the KTM 1190 Adventure fits the bill.
He owns and operates Imperium Tool
and Instrument in Butte, Mont.
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June 2014
At 6,900 miles not much left but Pirelli Angel GTs continue to impress
By Cole Boehler
In the January/February 2014 edition
of Northern Rockies Rider, we quite
positively reviewed the latest sport-tour
tire from Pirelli, the Angel GTs.
We reported we liked their feel. The
bike, a Yamaha FJR, a notorious tire eater,
seemed significantly lighter and turned
with less effort, tracked truly in the
curves and, at 5,400 miles, appeared to be
delivering exemplary wear.
Since then: the Pirellis lost almost no
pressure whatsoever during layups and
periods of infrequent use; we saw perhaps
a pound or two in four months, better
than any previous tire experience.
We’ve now added 1,500 more miles
and have some additional observations.
These tires were run in a wide variety
of conditions: 1,750 miles in a longdistance endurance rally where sustained
high speeds were part of the equation;
open-road cruising at 65 and up to
At 6,900 miles, the Angel GT
front appears to be wearing at
about the same rate as the rear,
a definite flatter ridge down the
middle. Inset photo is the same
tire at 3,500 miles.
85; run one-up and lightly
loaded, one-up and heavily
loaded, and two-up and heavily loaded;
run at night; in rain; in temperatures
above 95 degrees, temps below 30 degrees
and everything in between; about 50/50
straight-line versus mountain curves; on
dirty spring roads with sand and residual
de-icer chemical; and almost all of it on
highly abrasive chip-seal surfaces.
As of May 4, we had logged 6,900
miles on the Angel GT set, 400 miles
Pirelli Angel GT rear is
not yet to the wear bars
(red oval) at 6,900 miles
but tread siping is getting
shallow, not ideal for wet
conditions. Inset photo is
the same tire at 3,500 miles.
more than we’ve ever achieved previously
on any other rear tire (that was a
Michelin PR 2). Best yet, there appeared
to be another 500 to 1,000 miles possible,
though not a lot of tread siping remained
in the centers and the Angels would have
to be considered marginal for use in rain.
The shoulder rubber
remained in fairly good
condition though the
trailing edge of the
rear tread blocks were
somewhat ground away.
We see no unusual wear
patterns such as cupping
or flaring, and we had the
chicken strips near to the
edge on several occasions
while two-up and loaded
on hot days.
Between 6,300 and
6,900 miles we did
run the tires in some
significant rain a couple
of times and never felt
anything from down
below that caused the
slightest pucker, though we weren’t about
to take any real chances, either.
The front tire appeared to be wearing
at almost the same rate as the rear.
Handling, even at this advanced
state of wear, remained nimble and
predictable. The bike continued to turn
in easily and lightly, felt glued to the
pavement, and still tracked truly in turns
while never hunting or wandering in the
Motel 6 of Butte
We Are Riders!
Manager Rochelle
Schultz and husband
Rob welcome you!
• Motorcycle Friendly
• Lowest Prices in Butte area
• Adjacent to C-Store, Fuel, Casino,
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• Free Wi-Fi, Coffee & Cable
• Very Clean with
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• Smoking Rooms
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I-15/I-90 Interchange at Rocker - Exit 122
406-782-5678 • motel6.com - then search Butte
straight stuff. Braking performance was
never an issue.
Previous brands of tires we’ve worn
out call for increasing muscle to put the
bike – and keep it – where you want it
as they wear to 70 and 80 percent, and
can be a real handful when that last 10
or 20 percent is scrubbed away. That has
decidedly not been the case with these
Pirellis.
On a recent ride down straight twolane on a calm day, I set my
throttle lock and cruised for
perhaps five miles without
hands on the grips. The
bike tracked with amazing
stability and not the least
hint of a wobble.
This says something
for the tires, but
also the perfect
mounting and
balancing.
We are now
considering our
replacement
options: once again
go with the best
tires we’ve ever
run – The Pirelli Angel GTs –
or roll the dice and try a set of
Michelin PR 4s, a tire that is
supposedly Michelin’s answer to
the Angels.
While we conservatively tend to stick
to the tried and true, our journalistic
curiosity may get the best of us...this
time.
Pirelli Angel GT
Rear dual-compound - 180/55/17;
MSRP up to $289
The shoulder of the
180/55/70 rear Angel GT
is now exhibiting some
rubber loss at the tread
blocks’ trailing edges (red
oval) but still handles
fine. Inset photo is the
same tire at 3,500 miles.
Front monocompound 120/70/17; MSRP up
to $199
Internet - as low as $294/set; shipping
may be additional
Satisfaction rating
Still five stars (at 6,900 miles)
June 2014
Perfect gift for any motorcyclist!
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• 512 full-color pages • Over 350 photos • 120 map excerpts
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How to order:
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Included with book purchase:
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Serving Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, So. Dakota, B. C. and Alberta
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mailing address, telephone number, e-mail address and
$25 to: Northern Rockies Rider, 914 Holmes Ave., Butte, MT
59701, or contact us at <[email protected]>. Canadian
Subscriptions are $50.
Volume 2, Number 2 • May 2013 • A Continental Communications Publication • [email protected] • 406-498-3250
The Lochsa...
150 miles of curves, good pavement, magnificent scenery
One of the top three routes in
the U.S.? Most would agree
By Cole Boehler
It was already greening up when this idyllic U.S. 12 scene was captured April 3 this year.
Dani Rollison-Collins photo.
s
r
u
o
T
p
o
T
kies Rider
Northern Roc
utes as
otorcycle ro
20 favorite m
s Rider
thern Rockie
or
N
in
d
re
u
feat
Perhaps the most famous and
most photographed highway sign
in motorcycling is posted just a
mile east of Lowell, Idaho. It is
along the Lolo Pass-Lochsa River
route on U.S. Hwy 12. It says,
“WINDING ROAD NEXT 77
MILES.”
I first posed there for a photo
in the late 1980s. Over the years
a bunch of friends have also
had pictures taken with their
machines and the sign in the
background. Years later those
pictures evoke powerful and crystal
clear memories of the epic rides that
ensued.
That sign designates what most
regard to be one of the three best
motorcycle roads in the U.S. It is known
as U.S. 12, Lolo Pass or “The Lochsa.”
This incredible route traverses 28
miles of Montana and, depending upon
what you regard as the Idaho end – in
our case, Orofino – another 135 miles
of superb mountain riding down the
Lochsa (pronounced like “lock-saw”)
and Clearwater River Valleys.
By the way, a few years ago we
See Lochsa, Page 8
Black Hills Motorcycle Show draws near 2,000
By Dottie Rankin
NR Rider Wyoming correspondent
2014-2015
$3.95
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Rushmore Plaza Civic Center located
in the heart of downtown Rapid
City, right next door to the Journey
Museum.
Show hours were from 9 a.m. to 7
p.m. Sat., April 13 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sun., April 14. Awards were presented
at 3 p.m. Sunday. It was estimated just
under 2,000 enthusiasts attended the
show.
There were 25 classes of
motorcycles and awards went to
first, second and third place in each
category. The most sought after award
was the Best of Show Award which
was voted by those attending the
show.
The 36 vendors lined all four
Black Hills Motorcycle Show’s 25th Anniversary was an appropriate celebration of
Features 20 top routes reviewed
in Northern Rockies Rider.
For dedicated riders there is something
compelling about a motorcycle show,
and there is something magnetic about
the Black Hills, so when you combine a
motorcycle show with the Black Hills you
can’t resist going.
April 13-14 was the 25th Anniversary
of the Black Hills Motorcycle Show.
It promised to be the region’s premier
display of iron artwork under the roof
of Rapid City’s Rushmore Plaza Civic
Center. Highlighted were the “original and
nostalgic” as well as the “contemporary
and cutting-edge” motorcycles.
The Black Hills Motorcycle Show
was conducted in Barnett Arena at the
Top Tours
2013-2014
$3.95
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www.northernrockiesrider.com
Favorite motorcycle routes
as featured in
Dakota
> British Columbia > South
> Washington
> Idaho
> Wyoming
> Montana
See Black Hills, Page 2
riding and the show.
Enjoy first edition of ‘Top Tours’!
To our wonderful Northern Rockies Rider distributors
and readers: This issue carries our first annual edition of
“Top Tours” magazine. We hope you enjoy it.
NR Rider distributors may sell the magazine at the $3.95
cover price, or for a lesser sale price, or may simply give it
to their best customers as a way of showing appreciation.
Please note the “Top Tours” supporting advertisers:
they purchased a presence in the magazine because they
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That, in itself, is a good reason to patronize these fine
businesses.
We promised we would print 5,000 copies, a reasonable
amount when the project was first conceived. Because
of growing demand, we wound up printing 6,750, a 35
percent circulation bonus for advertisers! You’re welcome.
We are already planning our 2014 edition of “Top
Tours.” With the increased distribution, the 2013 rates
cannot remain in place, but we will maintain them until
July 1 this year. Book your space now for next year at this
year’s low rates.
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Corner Control
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‘Odd Couple’
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• This one is a “keeper” that will be
savored, shared and saved by riders
• Comprehensive review of our
area’s extraordinary motorcycle
touring routes: British Columbia,
Idaho, Montana, South Dakota,
Washington & Wyoming
June 2014
Make a trip to the Touratech rally an adventure ride
By Stephen Sullivan
For NR Rider
the mountains into Sandpoint, Idaho,
via a maze of logging roads, but had to
turn around due to snow, ending up on
We were on a logging road,
a twisty road along the Coeur d’ Alene
overlooking the Washington Cascades
River to I-90.
and Lake Chelan, when around the
We then reluctantly had to ride the
corner, a snow bank partially blocked the
freeway through Spokane before turning
route.
and following Hwy. 2 over the plains of
My partner and I at Great Divide
eastern Washington. Since my KTM is
Dual Sport Adventures, LLC, were
not really suited to straight highways and
guiding a group of novice adventure bike
wind, I let Mr. V-Strom take the lead but
riders during part of the three-day 2012
after awhile he seemed to be wandering.
Touratech Adventure Rally held near
He pulled over at a Coulee City coffee
Leavenworth, Wash.
shop explaining that he was dozing off
(explaining
the
wandering)
and was
in need
of some
caffeine –
good call.
We then
made it
down the
narrow
ravine
west of
Walkerville,
to the
Columbia
Typical scene at any adventure rally: fully farkled adventure bikes.
River, to
Upon reaching the snow bank, I
Wenatchee on to our final destination of
stopped the group of eight BMW GS
Leavenworth.
Adventure riders following me and
The Rally is held in a valley just north
explained how to negotiate the obstacle
of Leavenworth, a Bavarian-themed
by riding around the bottom edge of the
town located at the base of Stevens Pass
snow bank, then up the hill to the fire
on Hwy. 2. For those unfamiliar with the
lookout at the summit.
Northern Cascades, they are a spectacular
After explaining the tactics, I rode my
range of mountains, streams and
KTM 950 through the mud around the
assortment of volcanoes that block easy
end of the snow bank. I then parked my
passage to Seattle and Puget Sound.
bike when the first rider started his BMW
The Cascades provide a seemingly
GS. But instead of following my track, he
endless number of winding mountain
dumped the clutch and steered straight
roads, both paved and gravel – heaven for
towards the snow bank immediately
adventure bikes.
burying the front wheel and tipping over
Upon arrival at the rally site we found
into a heap.
a pasture of tents and bikes (mostly
As I helped the rider to get up, I
BMWs) – and guys and some girls in
questioned him: did he not hear my
adventure gear. We picked a spot to prop
instructions? Why did you decide to try
our tents and found the center for the
and turn the BMW into a snowmobile?
rally. For the next two days we were filled
He mumbled something about
with adventure bike information, great
thinking about riding on top of the
food and at night, cold beer.
snow. But he found out the hard way that
After the first evening orientation,
BMW’s do not make good snowmobiles.
we found ourselves signed up for next
Afterwards, several of us extracted the
day’s guided expert ride. Our assigned
BMW from the snow, then he and the
guide was Jona Street, who was winner
rest successfully made it around the snow of several stages of the infamous Parisbank to the summit. One lesson learned.
Dakar Rally Race.
This little guided snow adventure was
The next day we again met Mr. Street,
the result of folks at Touratech asking
but instead of riding a big adventure bike
us at to attend their annual Adventure
like us, he was on a Yamaha WR 450
Bike Rally in Leavenworth, Wash., in
racer. l later informed him this was unfair
June 2012. For those unfamiliar with
– like bringing a gun to knife fight.
Touratech, they are the leading brand in
For most of the day we attempted
aftermarket accessories for large touring
to keep up to Mr. Street on the maze of
and adventure motorcycles.
dirt roads he set up, but most of the time
Touratech annually holds its rally
when I saw him he was standing around
in conjunction with the Washington
waiting for us.
Overland Rally; this year it will be
We made it to Lake Chelan for lunch
conducted June 26-29.
and then back over dirt roads across the
After being invited to 2012 rally, my
mountains to the rally site. At one point
partner, Steve Inabnit (Mr. 650 Suzuki
we were above the Columbia River and
V-Strom), and I decided to ride our
could see Lake Chelan and the Northern
bikes to the Rally from our home base
Cascades.
in Whitefish, Mont. This trip would take
Once back at the Rally I was
us through the Idaho Panhandle and
approached by the Touratech boys and
northern Washington.
was asked to lead the one of the tours
Our ride started by traversing 50
the next day. Despite being somewhat
miles of gravel down the Thompson
unfamiliar with the area, the tour went
River to Thompson Falls, Mont., and
well, except for the before mentioned
over Thompson Pass into the old mining
snow bank adventure, but this was mainly
town of Murray, Idaho, where the world’s
due to the great maps that Touratech
longest carved wooden chain resides in
provided.
the only bar in town.
The following Sunday we headed back
From Murray we attempted to cross
to Whitefish, but took a different, more
northerly route through Washington’s
northern mountains. Turning north on
Hwy. 97 we headed up the Okanogan to
Omak then turned east on Hwy. 20 over
the Wauconda Summit to the old mining
town of Republic for lunch.
We then crossed Lake Roosevelt to
Kettle Falls heading south until we took
the cut-off going by the 49-Degrees North
ski area, then heading south again along
the Pend Oreille River to Newport back
on Hwy. 2.
All in all, the ride through the
northern tier of Washington and Idaho
was great, but the most memorable part
was the Touratech Rally, riding with Jona
Street and meeting other adventure riders
who shared their stories and provided me
with ideas for future trips.
I can’t wait until then next Touratech
Rally this June.
Steve Sullivan is the principal of Great
Divide Dual Sport Adventures, LLC,
based out of Whitefish, Mont. He is a fifth
generation Montanan who grew up in
Missoula, graduating with a history degree
from the University of Montana. Steve
raced motocross and started trail riding
in the mid-1970’s. Over the years he has
owned a host of dirt and street motorcycles
and currently rides a Beta 525 Enduro at
selected off-road races and events. He is 15year member of the American Motorcyclist
Association and a member of the Montana
Trail Vehicle Riders Association. For the
last three years he has guided adventure
tours focusing on Western Montana
June 2014
spring ride
a perfect
a good bike, company and country:
By Suzanne Shafer
Special to Northern Rockies Rider
The sun was no longer reflected in
my mirror when I rolled into Heppner. I
nearly overlooked the vacancy sign for a
small motel just beyond the Shell station.
As I stepped into the motel office, the
man behind the counter grinned and
commented on Charlie, who was still on
my bike, just outside the office window.
“I’ll have to charge you an extra five
bucks if he stays with you,” he said.
But he forgot to add the charge to my
credit card, then noticed his oversight
and decided if Charlie would sleep on the
floor rather than the bed, I wouldn’t have
to pay extra.
He gave me “the Caribbean room.”
Wishful thinking here in the outback of
eastern Oregon?
Minutes later I discovered that I would
sleep surrounded by palm trees and four
shades of blue surf.
I took Charlie for a potty walk and
discovered that nothing but the Shell
station was open. My complaining
It was Easter Sunday in the Walla
Walla Valley of Oregon. The daffodils
were fading but the dogwoods were
popping pink and white all over town.
It was a great day to be on my bike.
The Weather Channel predicted a full day
of sunshine, but I stuffed my rain gear
into the saddle bag anyway, wary of the
jinx.
Charlie had trotted at my heels since
I began putting on my gear. He loves
to ride. Now he was leashed into his
carrier, waiting for his first ride this year.
I packed for an overnighter, but hadn’t
chosen a destination. I love traveling that
way.
It was slightly past noon when the
Suzanne Shafer on her Honda Shadow VLX with faithful riding buddy, Charlie.
2001 Honda Shadow VLX, Charlie and I
crossed the Columbia River on I-82, but
County who died during World War I.
road my undivided attention. I’d just
it felt like our day had just begun. This
As it neared 5 p.m. my stomach
seen a dead deer in the ditch and was not
would be my first ride on Hwy. 14 and I
was grumbling. The bike needed gas
interested in getting personal with one.
was pleased when no other vehicle took
so I crossed the Columbia just beyond
the exit.
Stonehenge and pulled into a truck stop
It was a great day for dawdling and 55
in Biggs, Ore.
MPH sounded about right. I was happy
Charlie is an attention getter; people
to slow down and wave around anyone in had been grinning and waving since we’d
a hurry.
rolled in. I was consulting my map when
I took in the wide-open, barren
the window of the car beside me opened.
landscape that I have driven past and
A women pointed at his carrier and
ignored. Why are things more noticeably
stated the obvious with a question: “Does
beautiful
he really ride with
when I’m on
you in that thing?”
the bike?
I decided
Miles
her inquiry
later, at the
was rhetorical,
bottom of
grinned, and
a long hill,
turned back to the
I pulled off
map.
and fished
Hmmm.
out my
Heppner was a 90camera.
mile ride. White
The river
Salmon would
glistened
put a stop to my
and Mount
stomach noises
Hood was
much sooner, but
just barely
I’d never run Hwy.
visible in
206... I thought I
the distance.
could just make
Cars zipped
it before the
by me but
sun went down.
a big semi
Novelty won. My
Charlie ready for his potty break at Stonehenge.
slowed. I
stomach would
could smell
have to wait.
the brakes.
What a great ride! Frequent stretches
The co-driver leaned out the window.
where I could roll on the throttle and race
“You all right?”
the setting sun, peppered with twisties up
I give him a thumbs-up. He grinned
and down the steep grades between flats.
and hollered, “Beautiful bike!” as the
Riding alone in unpopulated vastness
truck pulled away.
turned me philosophical. I took in
Charlie needed a break and I meant
the hilly, sparsely adorned terrain that
to give him one at Stonehenge. Many
stretched toward far distant horizons
times, from the Oregon side of the Gorge, and wondered why I’d let my life get so
114 West Main, Newcastle, Wyoming 82701
I’ve seen this replica of Britain’s great
cluttered with problems and things that
Monday-Saturday 12pm - 2am • Sunday 12pm - 10pm
national icon overlooking the river. But
matter very little. I felt so light out here,
SPONSORED BY WESTON COUNTY TRAVEL COMMISSION.
until this day I didn’t know it was built as so uncomplicated.
a memorial to the young men of Klickitat
I stopped sight-seeing and gave the
the best
bloody marys
in the black hills
happy hour
mon-fri 5 to 7
free pool Sundays
$1 tap tuesdays
Motorcycle
Friendly Bar!
(307) 746-3382
June 2014
stomach would have to be satisfied with
chips from the convenience store and
the baby carrots and dry Italian salami
stashed in my tank bag.
I finished “dinner” and got ready
for bed. Charlie was already asleep
under the bed. Around 3 a.m.
he woke me up trying to
join me topside. I covered
the bedspread with my rain
jacket and lifted him onto
it. We both slept with the
soundness a long day in the
saddle will bring.
It was a chilly morning walk to
the diner. It struck me that there are
shamrocks everywhere in Heppner.
The young woman who told me
Charlie was welcome to come in, and
served me breakfast, even had one
tattooed on her arm. When I asked
why they’re so popular, she told me the
town is of Irish-Catholic descent.
“St. Paddy’s Day is really big here,” she
said.
Geezers filled several tables in the
small diner. They were sipping coffee
and gossiping and grumbling about the
speeds. The temperature held at 52
degrees as I crossed the top of the pass.
Snow was cuddled up to the asphalt but
the pavement was dry.
I worried about whether Charlie’s
jacket was warm enough, but he still had
his head poked out the top of the carrier
so he must have been okay.
Suddenly, the valley in which Ukiah
nestles burst into full view and I stopped
wondering about heated riding gear
for dogs. I knew the grandness before
me could not be captured by my little
camera. It’s a must-see-for-yourself kind
of view.
In Ukiah, I got a quick cup of coffee
and decided to stay bundled for the 45
miles of scenic roadway that ends at I-84,
just west of La Grande.
Hwy. 244 winds with a river. I admired
a couple of Canadian Geese enjoying a
very cold float. The road twisted up and
down through gorgeous pastures and
wooded areas. I saw many fine photos-inwaiting, but no safe places to pull over to
capture them.
I was grousing about this when I burst
into an immense, startlingly green plain
There’s no place like home; just ask Charlie.
The west is dotted with these forlorn “falling down things,” in the words of poet Richard
Hugo.
weather and their neighbors.
“He sure does stink,” one said of
someone they all seemed to know. “Don’t
see how anyone can stand to get near
him.” There were nods all round and one
made a comment so funny that I laughed
out loud. They decided to include me in
the conversation.
They all petted Charlie as they asked
what I was riding and where I’d been,
then one of them told me how his brother
got himself all busted up when his front
tire hit a small rock in a turn. He was the
second guy in this town to tell me a crash
story. I wondered about that.
I asked about the Blue Mountain
Scenic Byway between here and Ukiah.
A sign on the way into town said it was
closed until June, but the guys in the
diner assure me I’d be fine if I stayed off
the ice on the shoulder.
I worried that it might be too cold
for Charlie over the pass, but I’d done
this road twice in a car and knew how
beautiful it is. I decided to chance it. I
could always turn around.
It was 10 a.m. and 64 degrees. The
bike was gassed and Charlie had been
well-petted by the Shell attendant. The
windshield and forks were bug-free, the
tire pressures perfect, and I had on all the
clothes I packed.
The temperature dropped as I
climbed, but I was captivated by springgreen hills hosting scattered livestock. I
got a glimpse of the mountain ahead; the
top was, well...blue.
The twisties were abundant but not
intimidating, even for a relative novice. I
took them just slightly above the posted
surrounded by mountains. The road ran
straight down the middle and just off
it was a cluster of ancient, falling down
farm buildings. I have never been able to
resist dying barns! I pulled over and took
out my camera. Perhaps I’d get a shot I
liked this time.
I soon merged onto I-84 eastbound,
just ahead of a line of cars traveling in
a single lane that was previously the
highway shoulder. I have yet to find this
nine-mile stretch of the Interstate in
anything approaching a safe condition.
The road surface was rutted and the
guy in the car behind was breathing
down my neck. I was hanging on for dear
life by the time I took the first exit into La
Grande!
When I could breathe again, I pulled
over to choose my route back to the Walla
Walla Valley.
I love riding the Old Emigrant Hill
Scenic Frontage Road that roughly
parallels the four-lane for about 25
miles before dropping rapidly down the
north face of Emigrant Hill to follow the
Umatilla River through the Cayuse Valley,
then climbs out of the canyon and meets
Hwy. 11 not far from home.
But taking that route would mean
getting back on I-84 for 20 grueling miles.
The alternative is Hwy. 204 across the
Blue Mountains, a truly beautiful ride.
But when I crossed that pass five days
earlier in my car, it was in the low 40s at
the top.
I pulled out my phone to consult the
Weather Channel one last time. Ahhh! It
was 57 degrees at the summit with rain
on the way around 6 p.m. Perfect! It was
an hour’s ride. Charlie and I would be
home long before drops begin falling. I
shrugged off the last bit of I-84 stress and
pointed the bike towards Elgin.
I ride 204 often and never tire of
it. There was still plenty of snow on
either side but the weatherman had
the temperature right. I doubted the
prediction of rain, however, when the sun
burned through clouds just as I passed
the summit.
I almost always meet deer on this
highway, but they were absent this day.
I felt marvelous as I dropped down
through wheat fields into MiltonFreewater, Ore.
I parked my bike and told Charlie his
spring ride was over. He looked glad to be
home.
But as I unlocked my front door, I
realized that I was not ready, just yet, to
step back into my cluttered life.
I shed some layers and put my helmet
back on. I knew a seedy little restaurant
10 miles away where I could get a
perfectly cooked steak dinner for $5.95.
I needed just a little more.
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57 miles from Jackson Hole and 18 miles from Dubois
Knowledge is only helpful
if you act on it correctly
By Stacey “Ax” Axmaker, Director
Idaho STAR Motorcycle Safety Program
gear would have reduced my road-rash
and head injury, but…
Knowledge doesn’t mean you have
the ability or desire to actually act on it.
Riders often talk about learning
Food is another good example. Most
more about riding, and this is a good
of
us
know what to eat in order to be
thing. Increasing knowledge about
healthier. This
our sport is
knowledge
a great step
sometimes
toward better
bears little
riding. But it’s
Stacey “Ax” Axmaker
resemblance
not enough.
Director Idaho STAR
to what ends
Consider
Motorcycle Safety
up on our
this:
Program
dinner plates.
“Your
Skill: So,
knowledge
skills must be
does not
where it really
matter.”
makes a difference, right? Not exactly.
“What? Did he just say ‘Your
To paraphrase from above:
knowledge does not matter?’ Yes,
“Your skill does not matter.”
but let me clarify: if your knowledge
“What? Did he just say ‘Your
leads you to successful action, then it
skill does not matter?’ Yes, but let
matters, but it only matters as far as
me clarify: if the skills you have are
your action matters. If you “know”
successfully executed on the street and
something, but take action or make a
you avoid a crash because of it, then
decision against that knowledge, then
it matters. But it only matters as far
that knowledge isn’t helping you.”
as your actions taken in ‘the moment
Here are some examples:
• I knew I entered that curve too
of truth’ matter. If you can do certain
fast, but…
skills such as maximum braking in
• I knew I shouldn’t have ridden
a parking lot or on the track (under
home after having a few drinks, but…
controlled and predictable conditions),
• I knew that riding the clutch
but when a car pulls out in front of you
would have helped me with low speed
on the street, you lock up the rear tire
control, but…
and lay the bike down, then that skill
• I knew that I should have looked
isn’t helping you.”
through the turn and not at the
I know that may sound harsh, but if
guardrail, but…
• I knew that wearing quality riding
See What Matters, Page 25
June 2014
All roads lead to
Sturgis
Business Owners...
Do you want more motorcycle traffic?
on the
map!!
or email
[email protected]
Learn how to “Ride your Ride” like a pro!
Take an Advanced RiderCourse
• Get the most out of your bike
• Maximize turning and braking
abilities
• Obstacle Avoidance
• Make safety a priority in your ride
Group and club rates available
For more information
1-800-922-BIKE
http://motorcycle.msun.edu
Registration
Now Open
MSUN ARC Ad.indd 1
7/28/11 9:20 AM
Don’t bet on
being seen.
Drive Aware!
http://www.dot.state.wy.us/home/dot_safety/motorcycle_safety_program.html
June 2014
Wyoming ‘Ladies Over The Top’ out to raise $$$ for cancer research
By Lee Ann Stephenson
NR Rider Wyoming Correspondent
Have you ever been sitting around
at happy hour on a Friday night,
talking about going on a ride the
following day? Everyone gets excited
that night, but the next day, few people
show.
Other times, the plan can morph
into magical.
A magical ride is what happened 18
years ago, on the last Saturday in June.
I visited with several gals who
had just made the switch from riding
behind their husbands to riding their
own bikes. They weren’t comfortable
yet going fast or going from bar to bar,
as is more commonly the guys’ type of
weekend ride.
I started talking about the
There was a large group for the 2009 “Ladies Over the Top Run.” Here they are at the Libby Flats lookout on Wyoming 130 Snowy Range
beautiful ride from Cheyenne, Wyo.,
Scenic Byway west of Centennial, Wyo.
to Laramie on the Happy Jack Road,
Several of them had never even seen their bike, walk around a minute and
Chapter of Komen Breast Cancer
Wyoming Hwy. 210, and then west on
the Snowy
shake off their wobbly or stiff knees.
Research (<komenwyoming.org>), as it
Wyoming 130
Range. As
The ride was wonderful, fun and
has every year.
to Centennial,
we started
exciting.
Well over $5,000 has been raised for
over the Snowy
out
of
Eighteen
years
later,
“The
Ladies
the
Wyoming chapter by the “Ladies
Range scenic
town, it was Over The Top Run” continues to
Over The Top Run” in the last 18 years.
byway, into
amazing to
encourage women riders to advance
Prizes will be awarded for high and low
the town of
look back in their riding skills.
hand.
Riverside,
the mirror
This year it will begin at Lazy
Please consider joining us for this
then back to
and see
Acres Campground in Riverside on
beautiful ride. What could be better
Woods Landing
only women June 28 at 10 am. We will ride east on
than having a great time with a group
on Wyoming
and their
Wyoming 130 over the Snowy Range
of like-minded women while we raise
230, Laramie
smiling
scenic byway to Altitudes in Laramie
money for a worthy cause?
and home to
faces!
for lunch. Riders can join up there as
You can contact me for any
Cheyenne.
We took
well!
questions you may have about the run
It would be
it slow and
We will return to Riverside via west
at <[email protected]>. Hope
about a 200stopped
on Wyoming 230, thru Woods Landing to see you there!
mile ride.
often, as
and Wycolo. We will have a five-card
We had six
some of the
poker hand with each hand costing $5.
gals show up the
gals needed One hundred percent of the proceeds
next morning,
“Ladies Over the Top Run” patch.
to get off
raised will benefit the Wyoming
ready to ride!
Don’t ride like a kid!
Arizona is Butler’s newest map release
The folks at ButlerMaps, specialists in
motorcycle-specific map cartography, have just
released their newest product, a map designating
the best riding routes in the Grand Canyon State of
Arizona.
As with all Butler’s maps, the best paved routes
are ridden and rated, but this version also covers
several thousand miles of the best unpaved
adventure routes.
The company says, “We sent real humans
to Arizona in search of the best roads. It turns
out that the dry deserts, lush forests and deep
canyons make for some epic motorcycle
touring. Learn what we found. ‘The Great Rides
of Arizona’ is now available. Time to go ride!”
The Butler maps are available at selected
motorcycle dealers and other retail
locations, as well as the company web site at
<butlermaps.com>.
What Matters
from page 24
our goal is preventing crashes, then if
the crash still happens, we have not met
our goal.
Performance: So, what’s the
difference between “skill” and
“performance?”
Here’s an example: I have a
tremendous singing voice in the
shower…seriously, worthy of a standing
ovation! Now, in front of people…
uhhh…well, that’s a different story.
In the same way, there are riders
who can perform all kinds of very cool
Take a Basic RiderCourse
Quit Dreaming, Come Ride!
The company says of their
products, “Each and every road
segment detailed in our maps has
been ridden and rated by an owner
of ButlerMaps Inc. From sport bike
enthusiast, to dual sport adventurer,
chopper rider, to two-up tourers, our
team has diligently researched and
presented fantastic riding experiences
that are sure to impress no matter what
you ride.”
Butler maps are waterproof and tear
resistant, designed to withstand abuse. The
maps fold to 4.25-inch x 9-inch to easily fit
in tank- and tail-bags and can be folded to
fit within map cases. They retail at $14.95
but various other discounted packages are
also available.
braking, cornering and balancing skills
on a practice pad or parking lot, but
when it comes to a critical moment on
the street, they falter.
How do you get from skill to
performance? Practice to the point of
developing new habits.
Here is an example:
• You know (or you learn) that the
front brake gives you up to 70 percent
or more of your stopping power
(knowledge).
• You take a rider training course or
go out to a parking lot to try it out and
develop the ability to do really good
quick stops several times (skill).
• You consciously use both brakes
every time you slow or stop, even when
it is a very gradual stop. This builds
up to hundreds or even thousands
of “practice sessions” of using both
brakes.
• One day, an oncoming car turns
left in front of you, or the car you are
following stops short. You immediately
apply both brakes and get your
motorcycle stopped, avoiding the
collision (performance).
Performance is where “the rubber
meets the road,” and all the prior
steps are simply to get us to point of
performance in “the moment of truth.”
Gain knowledge, develop skill, but
go the final step to performance for
success on the street.
Ride more, crash less.
• For riders with little
or no
experience
• Refresh your skills if you
have experience • Motorcycles provided
• Helments provided
Group and club rates available
Registration Now Open
For more information
1-800-922-BIKE
http://motorcycle.msun.edu
MSUN ARC Ad.indd 1
MSUN ARC Ad.indd 1
7/28/11 9:20 AM
June 2014
Internet is informative but also entertaining
By David Fletcher
NR Rider Contributing Writer
Let’s suppose you want to find out
how to change the fork seals on your
motorcycle or remove the rear wheel
and install a new one. Or, how about
catching up on what’s going on in
the world of fellow Harley-Davidson
riders?
If you’re like me, you’re interested in
finding out about adventure traveling
or stories about motorcycles and their
riders. Others enjoy motorcycling
simply as a form of entertainment.
These days there are many
informational choices and sources
available.
We can go to the bookstore or do
an Internet search and find top-rated
articles on just about any motorcycle
topic. However, there are times
when we’re better served with an
instructional video, travel video or
some good old sensory stimulation.
In the evening, when sitting down
with your computer, chances are
you may be as likely to click on a
video as on an article, perhaps due to
one’s available free time or mind set;
sometimes it’s easier to watch than to
read.
If you choose a video, there’s a good
chance that the video you chose comes
from YouTube.
I must admit I enjoy YouTube. I
thought it would be fun to put together
a “Ten Top YouTube” videos that cover
an array of motorcycle topics that our
readers might enjoy.
The list isn’t in order of preference,
although there are some I enjoy more
than others. I’ll get to that later in the
article. So, here are my “Ten.” Enter
(type) each title into your search engine
as listed below and let me know what
you think. Send your comments to
<[email protected]>. as well as a list
of your favorite YouTube motorcycle
videos. We’ll share your comments and
video favorites with our fellow readers.
YouTube Café Racer Short Film
This is a 12:19-minute video that
has no spoken dialog. Instead it
employs clever visual cues to tell a
story. It takes place in London and
follows a leather-clad racer on his
1968 Norton Commando. The biker is
Eddie Tenpole, one-time member of
the Sex Pistols. The female lead driving
the Mercedes is played by Tamara
Beckwith.
The video was filmed in 1997 by
Robert Milton and features a cameo
appearance by Mark Wilsmore, owner
of the Ace Café. Music is by Joe
Strummer of The Clash. The credits
take a little time to run their course, so
be patient as the video is well worth the
watch.
YouTube Weight - Easy Rider Clip
(1969) HD-720p
A video list would not be complete
without the 1969 road movie “Easy
Rider” written by Peter Fonda, Dennis
Hopper and Terry Southern. The movie
tells the story of two bikers (Fonda
and Hopper) who travel through the
American Southwest and South. The
film explores the societal landscape,
issues and tensions in the United States
during the 1960s.
There are a number of good
soundtracks in the film. “The Weight”
is my favorite.
The motorcycles in the film were
designed and built by Cliff Vaughs
and Ben Hardy and now reside in
the National Motorcycle Museum
in Anamosa, Iowa, though Fonda’s
“Captain America” is said to be a
replica as the original was stolen and
never recovered.
YouTube The Modern
Motorcycle Diaries
For those of you who enjoy
motorcycle adventure in person or
virtually, you’re bound to enjoy this
9:23-minute clip. The video was taken
by Alex Chacon who completed a
503-day solo journey on a motorcycle
between Alaska and Argentina. He rode
82,459 miles across 22 countries. The
video that he put together was edited
down from over 600 hours of film.
He started from his home in El
Paso, Texas, and rode south until he
hit Ushuia, Argentina, the “End of the
World.” He then rode up to Brazil, then
all the way up the Americas to Alaska
before finally riding home to Texas.
Chacon says he was inspired by Che
Guevara’s The Motorcycle Diaries.
Over the course of the trip, Chacon
passed over interstates, paved twolanes, dirt roads, no roads, mud,
through hurricanes, tornadoes,
tsunamis, rain, hail, sunshire, snow, ice
roads and more. Every night he would
stay wherever he found shelter. He rode
a Kawasaki KLR 650.
For more information about
Alex Chacon go to <http://www.
expenditionsouth.com>.
much of the motorcycle riding for the
television series “Chips.”
YouTube Stories of Bike
This is a YouTube series about
people who ride bikes and their stories.
It was created by Cam Elkins and his
younger brother, Jack. The brothers
seek out stories, then produce, shoot
and edit each episode. Jack writes the
original score.
It takes them about three weeks to
produce an episode with three to four
days of shooting and two weeks of
editing and music writing.
The series is about motorcycle
builders and everyday riders and their
bikes, their histories, their dreams,
challenges, loves and losses. It’s a great
series and I find myself viewing some
episodes over again and again.
There are 10 episodes in season I.
Season II has just started.
YouTube Rainier Beer Commercial
This is the shortest clip at only 35
seconds, but has a lasting impact.
I remember when the ad came out. I
was living in Seattle at the time and had
just bought my first motorcycle, a 1970
T 250 Scrambler and I took that bike
everywhere.
In 1970 the Rainier Brewing
Company hired Terry Heckler to
develop ads that would help lock the
Rainier brand deep into the public’s
memory banks. Terry and his staff
excelled at the task. The “Motorcycle
Spot” shows a country road, Mount
Rainier in the distance, and an
approaching motorcycle, then racing
by with its engine revving “Raaaiiii.....
niiieeerrrr....
beeeerrrrr....” It’s
a classic.
The producers of the movie wanted
her to cut her hair for the Trinity part,
but she refused and insisted on a wig
because she wanted the extra padding
and protection. I understand why.
YouTube The Greatest Show on Earth
- HD 322 kmh
For this clip, choose the June 21,
2013 upload as it captures the sheer
speed of the Isle of Man TT right from
the get go. The Isle of Man TT (tourist
trophy) race is held on the Isle of Man
and is the most prestigious motorcycle
race in the world and the most
dangerous. The race is held the last
week of May and is run in a time-trial
format on public roads that have been
closed for the event. The TT has been
running since 1907.
Racers reach average speeds of 125
mph over the 38-mile course which has
over 200 bends and corners. The course
climbs from sea level to an altitude of
over 1,300 feet.
Competing in this race is not for
the weak at heart. There have been
240 rider deaths over the history of
the race, the worst being 1970 when
six riders lost their lives. Joey Dunlop
(who died racing in Estonia in 2000)
won the race 26 times and John
McGuinness 20 times. Wow.
YouTube Harley - Davidson
This site contains over 147 video
clips of everything Harley-Davidson. I
particularly like the Women Motorcycle
Story series. There are six episodes that
tell the stories of how motorcycling has
changed these women’s lives and now
riding has become their “thing” rather
than being content as a passenger.
The site also has some great tips on
maintenance, customizing, bike reviews
and inspirational stories. For you
Harley riders, this site is a must.
YouTube The
Matrix Reloaded
- Trinity on
YouTube Chris Harris
Her Ducati
This site is for all you BMW owners
Motorcycle (HD) and contains 345 videos on BMW
This
instructional maintenance. Chris
3:57-minute clip
specializes primarily in the service of
is all action. The
BMWs from 1970-2004. However,
entire scene of
there are many clips on newer models
Trinity speeding
too, so if your bike was made after 2004
through traffic
chances are there’s a video instruction
and weaving
lesson for your model.
between vehicles
Chris is a real character and his
is thrilling.
videos are fun to watch even if you
Stuntwoman
don’t own a BMW. He covers literally
Steve McQueen established his motorcycle bona fides in “The
Debbie Evans
everything you need to know about
Great Escape.”
did the riding
maintenance, so if you own a BMW
and she recalls
and are considering changing the forks
YouTube Motorcycle Scene - “The
that the most intense and dangerous
or servicing the transmission and
Great Escape,” 1963, Steve McQueen
moment of the filming occurred when
clutch, check this YouTube site out first,
“The Great Escape” may not be a
a large semi-truck began to swing
you’ll be glad you did.
motorcycle movie, strictly speaking,
wildly and smacked the wall right as
So, that’s my “Top Ten” YouTube list.
but it contains what is arguably the
she backed out.
I have to admit that I like speed and
most famous motorcycle scene in
have watched
history. Steve McQueen solidified his
Trinity on her
place as a top Hollywood actor after
Ducati and the
appearing in “The Great Escape” as well
Isle of Mann TT
as his place as “King of Cool” with his
far too many
famous motorcycle chase for freedom.
times.
The motorcycle McQueen used
Don’t forget
was his favorite, a 1962 Triumph
to email us
Thunderbird. McQueen did most of
your favorite
the stunts in the movie and he even
motorcycle
attempted the final jump but crashed.
YouTube clips
The actual jump scene in the movie
at <nrr2@gmail.
was performed by a friend of his, Bud
com>. We’re
Ekins, who owned a motorcycle shop
looking forward
in California. The jump launched
to sharing
a new career for Ekins in movies
them with our
Debbie Evans did the stunt riding in “The Matrix Reloaded.”
and television. It was Ekins who did
readers.
June 2014
Events Calendar
National
• June 2-7 - Americade, Lake George, NY,
518-798-7888, <americade.com>
• June 14-22 - Laconia Motorcycle Week,
Laconia, N.H., <laconiamcweek.com>, new
Mae West pet benefit run June 16.
• June 16 - Ride Your Motorcycle To Work Day,
<ridetowork.org>
• July 2-5 - GWRRA Wing Ding, Madison,
WI, Alliant Energy Center, 1919 Alliant
Energy Center Way, 1-800-843-9460,
<[email protected]>, <gwrra.com>
• July 20-Aug. 2 - Hoka Hey Motorcycle
(endurance) Challenge, Key West, Fla. to
Homer, Alaska, Beth Durham,
605-890-0386, <hokaheychallenge.com>,
<[email protected]>
• Aug. 4-10 - 74th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle
Rally, Sturgis, So. Dak.,
<sturgismotorcyclerally.com>
• Oct. 15-19 - American International
Motorcycle Expo, Orlando, Fla., Orange Co.
Convention Center, 855-527-4697,
<aimexpousa.com>
2015
• July 23-25 - BMW Motorcycle Owners of
America national convention, Billings, Mont.
Alberta
• May 24-25 - Lloydminster Border Bike rally,
Lloydminster, Exhibition Grounds,
5521 49th Ave.
• May 30-June 1 - Western Canada Regional
Rally, Wayne, Larry Fowell, 780-362-0467,
<[email protected]>,
• June 20 - Hillbilly Hammerdown MC Rally,
Ashmont
• July 3-5 - Sea to Sky Western Regional
(B.C., AB, SK) H.O.G. Rally, Squamish,
B.C., Executive Inn & Suites, Len Bowman,
<seatosky2014.com>
• July 11-14 - Hawg Flatts Annual Pig Roast &
Bike Rally, Athabasca, 780-675-1987,
<[email protected]>, <hawgflatts.com>
• July 12 - Motorcycle Madness, Drumheller,
<motorcyclemadness.ca>
• July 12 - Boars and Beavers MC Rally,
Castor, Last Chance Saloon, 402-882-2916,
• July 12-13 - CMDRA Badlands Nationals,
Medicine Hat, MHDRA Drag Strip,
1-877-580-9008, <[email protected]>,
<mhdra.com>
• July 18-20 - Run To The Hills Rally,
Two Hills, Backcountry Bob,
780-603-3008, <runtothehillsbikerally.com>,
<[email protected]>
• July 25-26 - Border Bike Rally, Lloydminster,
Exhibition Grounds, 5521 49th Ave.,
<lloydbbr.com>
• Aug. 1 - Heartland Bash, Andrew,
<heartlandbash.com>
• Sept. 6 - CMDRA Prairie Nationals,
Edmonton, Castrol Raceway, <cmdra.com>
• Sept. 27 - CMDRA Season Finals, medicine
Hat, MHDRA Drag Strip, <cmdra.com>
British Columbia
• May 24 - CMDRA Season Kick Start drag
racing, Ashcroft, Nl’akapxm Eagle Motorplex,
1-877-580-9008, <[email protected]>,
<eaglemotorplex.com>
• May 31-June 1 - Rock Start Energy
Drink Motocross Nationals, Nanaimo,
Wastlands, Weigles Rd., 250,661-9374,
<nanaimomx.com>
• June 8 - GVMC Piston Run Hare Scrambles,
Chilliwack, Chimunk Creek/Foley Lake area,
Wally Klammer, 605-594-5918,
<[email protected]>, <gvmc.coa>
• July 3-5 - Sea to Sky Western Regional
(B.C., AB, SK) H.O.G. Rally, Squamish,
Executive Inn & Suites, Len Bowman,
<seatosky2014.com>
• July 3-6 - Horsethief Hideout Memorial MC
Rally, Invermere, 8250 Westside Rd., Gary Oja,
250-347-6407, <horsethirfhideout.com>,
<[email protected]>
• July 17-20 - Summer Stomp & Burnout,
Sicamous, Main Street, 250-517-8090
<summerstomp.ca>
• July 25-26 - Ride Into History, Fort
Langley, National Historic Site, 604-514-7375,
<rideintohistory.ca>
• Aug. 1-4 - Boogie Bash, Rock Creek,
Fairgrounds, 250-306-4562,
<aiminteriorbc.org>
• Aug. 9-10 - Cumberland MC Roundup,
Cumberland, 250-336-8746,
<cumberlandmotorcycleroundup.com>
• Aug. 14-17 - WITW Canadian National Rally,
Barkersville & Prince George,
<witwsaddlebags-ca..webs.com>
• Aug. 21-24 - Sturgis Canada, Merritt,
800-805-0089, <sturgiscanada.com>
• Aug. 23-24 - CMDRA High Desert Nationals,
Ashcroft, Nl’akapxm Eagle Motorplex,
1-877-580-9008, <[email protected]>,
<cmdra.com>
• Sept. 13 - Port Alberni Toy Run, Glenwood
Center, 250-731-4728, <[email protected]>,
<members.shaw.ca/toyrun>
• Sept. 21 - Salmon Run MC Rally, Vancouver,
Trevor Deeley Motorcycles, 1875 Boundary
Rd., <[email protected]>
Idaho
• June 6-8 - ABATE of No. Idaho Spring
Opener, Kingston, Alberts ‘s Landing, 418 Old
River Road, Jack, 208-676-9196,
<[email protected]:>
• June 13-15 - Valhalla Rally, Post Falls, Valkyrie
Riders Cruiser Club, Dave Hoffman,
<[email protected]>, <valkyrieriders.com>
• June 28 - Bring Bowe Back Rally, Hailey,
Debbie Oneill, 208-450-9687 or 208-578-2233,
<[email protected]>
• July 5 - Run Whatcha Brung, Old Town,
<facebook.com/killingmachinechoppers?fref=ts>
• July 12-14 - Rally in the Valley, Twin Falls
(Murtaugh Lake), Jeff Olson, 208-539-2699,
<[email protected]>
• July 24-27 - Tri-State (ID, WA, OR)
H.O.G. Rally, Spokane, 19011 E. Cataldo Rd.,
<lonewolfhog.com/pnw-hog-rally-information>
• July 25-27 - POW/MIA Awareness Rally &
Rodeo, Pocatello, Bannock Co. Fairgrounds,
Torrey Whitaker, 208-406-3343,
<[email protected]>, <powmiarodeo.org>
• Aug. 1-4 - Boogie Bash, Rock Creek,
Fairgrounds, 250-306-4562,
<[email protected]>
• Aug. 21-23 - Big Guys Mountain Rendezvous,
Garden Valley, Riverpond Campground, 853
Middle Fork Rd., 208-250-8507,
<[email protected]>
• Sept. 11-14 - Roads and Trails Rally Series
(Christian), Kamiah, Lewis-Clark Resort, 4243
Hwy. 12., <cmafastlanetalk.org>
• Sept. 12-14 - Big Nasty Hill Climb, Payette,
4933 Big Willow Creek Rd., Rob,
208-573-4255, <[email protected]>,
<bignastyhillclimb.com>
Montana
• June 7 - Wolf Creek Vintage Bike Run, Great
Falls, Jon Chacopulos,
<[email protected]>
• June 7-8 - Big Muddy MC Rally, Plentywood,
406-765-2810
• June 13-14 - Nitro National Pro Hillclimb,
Columbus, Don Beer, 406-321-0000,
<www.nitronationals.com>
• June 20-July 18-Aug. 4 - Flat Track MC
Series, Billings, BMP Speedway, 406-656-9960,
<ridethebigsky.com/mt_flattrack>
• June 27-29 - Big Sky Challenge Pro Hillclimb,
Billings, 3630 Old Blue Creek Rd.,
406-656-9960, 406-860-7893,
<billingsmotorcycleclub.us>
• July 3-6 - Montana State H.O.G. Rally,
Billings, Beartooth H-D, 6900 S. Frontage Rd.,
Colette, 406-252-2888,
<[email protected]>
• July 10-12 - GWRRA District Convention, Big
Sky, Huntley Lodge, <gwrra-mtdistrict.org>
• July 12 - Ride For Hope, Montana Hope
Project, Hamilton, Fairgrounds, Dave Evans,
406-949-7433, 406-672-6585,
<motnanhope.org>
• July 18-20 - Beartooth Rally, Red Lodge,
Bonedaddy, 888-827-2663,
<beartoothrally.com>, <beartoothonline.com>
• July 24-26 - Evel Knievel Days, Butte,
<[email protected]>, <evelknieveldays.org>
• July 25-27 - Great American Championship
Motorcycle Hill Climb, Billings, 3630 Old
Blue Creek Rd., 406-656-9960, 406-860-7893,
• July 26-Aug. 1 - Best of Montana 1,000 ADV
Ride, Troy,
<advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=944818>
• July 30-Aug. 5 - Testicle Festival, Rock Creek
Lodge (20 miles east of Missoula on I-90),
Matt Powers, 406-825-4868, <testyfesty.com>
• Aug. 14-17 - Beartooth Beemers Rendezvous,
Red Lodge, Lions Beartooth Mountain
Youth Camp 10 miles south of Red Lodge,
Phil Mortenson, 208-221-4580,
<beartoothbeemers.org>
• Aug. 26-27 - Night Time Hill Climb, Billings,
3630 Old Blue Creek Rd., 406-656-9960,
406-860-8001, <billingsmotorcycleclub.us>
• Sept. 13 - Four-Stroke Singles National
Owners Club Thumpercafe, Ingomar,
Jersey Lilly, Jack Robinson, 620-663-1869,
<[email protected]>, <fssnoc.org>
• Sept. 13 - Last Chance Montana 500 longdistance rally, Helena, K-Mart parking lot, Bob
Walker, 406-461-0523, <[email protected]>
• Sept. 28 - Fall Hill Climb, Billings,
3630 Old Blue Creek Rd., 406-249-7800,
• Oct. 5 - Four Hour Marathon Race,
3630 Old Blue Creek Rd., 406-855-9988,
South Dakota
• June 19-21 - So. Dak. State H.O.G. Rally,
Watertown, <[email protected]>,
<sdstatehogrally.com>
• July 11-13 - Hot Harley Nights, downtown
Sioux Falls, 605-334-2721, <[email protected]>,
<hotharleynights.com>
• Aug. 4-10 - 74th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle
Rally, Sturgis, So. Dak.,
<sturgismotorcyclerally.com>
• Aug. 5 - AMA Pro Flat Track Racing, Rapid
City, Black Hills Speedway, 2467 Jolly Ln.,
386-492-1014, <amaproracing.com/ft/events/>
• Aug. 7-8 – Nitro National Pro Hillclimb,
Sturgis, Buffalo Chip Campground, Don Beer,
406-321-0000, <www.nitronational.com>
Washington
• May 23-25 - Touchet River Outdoor
Roundup Pig Roast (chemical-free),
Waitsburg, Fairgrounds,
<[email protected]>, <snafubar.com>
• June 12-15 - ABATE Spring Opener, Easton,
Silver Ridge Ranch, 1892 Silver Ranch Rd.,
<springopener.com>
• June 19 - Hogs and Dogs, West Richland,
Bombing Range Sports Complex,
509-967-0521, <westrichlandchamber.com>
• June 21 - Summer Solstice Stonehenge Ride,
between the Oregon Border and Goldendale,
WA, Dave Hoffman, <[email protected]>,
<valkyrieriders.com>
• July 11-13 - Republic MC Rally, Republic,
Randy Kinney, 509-775-2000,
<[email protected]>, <republicrally.com>
• July 14-20 - Bigfoot Rendezvous, Rosalia,
30 miles south of Spokane off Hwy. 195,
<bigfootsidecarclub.com>
• July 19 - AMA Pro Flat Track Racing, Elma,
Grays Harbor Raceway, 32 Elma McCleary
Rd., 386-492-1014, <amaproracing.com>
• July 24-27 - Tri-State (WA, ID, OR)
H.O.G. Rally, Spokane, 19011 E. Cataldo Rd.,
<lonewolfhog.com/pnw-hog-rally-information>
• July 24-27 - Sun & Surf MC Run, Ocean
Shores, convention center,
<sunandsurfrun.com>
• July 24-29 - Washington State BMW Riders
MC Rally, Republic, Ferry County
Fairgrounds, Alana, 206-930-1074,
<[email protected]>, <wsbmwr.org>
• July 25-27 - Hog Wild, Ocean Shores,
Quinault Beach Resort Casino, 78 St. Rt. 115,
775-329-7469, <roadshowreno.com>
• July 26 - Lucas Oil Pro Motorcross
Championship, Washougal, MX Park, 40912
NE Borin Rd., <[email protected]>,
<promotocross.com>
• Aug. 1-2 - Tumbleweed Rally CANCELLED
• Aug. 2 - AMA Pro Flat track racing, Castle
Rock, Race Park, 386-492-1014,
<amaproracing.com>
• Aug. 14-17 - Washington State Trike-In,
Montesano, 360-923-0133,
<[email protected]>, <btw-trikers.org>
• Aug. 15-17 - Motorcycle Rodeo &
Swap Meet, Clayton, Fairgrounds,
<nwclassicmotorcycleclub.com>
• Aug. 15- 17 - Tenino Antique & Classic
MC Swap Meet & Show, Tenino City Park,
<evergreenamca.org>
• Aug. 22-24 - Springdale Motorcycle Rodeo,
Springdale, Rodeo Arena, Hwy. 231,
<frontierdaysrodeos.com>
• Aug. 22-24 - Meet at America’s Car Museum
Vintage MC Festival, Tacoma, America’s
Car Museum/Haub Family ShowField,
2702 E. D St., 253-779-8490,
<lemaymuseum.com>
• Aug. 22-24 - Brother Fest MC Rally, Bonney
Lake, Swiss Sportsman Club, 9205 198th Ave.
E., 253-720-7007, <bandofbrothersmc.com>
• Sept. 13 - Speed & Sport National
Vintage Trials Series, Fairfield, Rattlers Run,
<[email protected]>, <dev.ahrma.org>
• Sept. 13 - Harvest Festival Run, Grand
Coulee, Grand Coulee Dam Area Chamber
of Commerce, Peggy Nevsimal,
<grandcouleedam.org/harvestfestival>
• Sept. 14 - AHRMA Vintage Motocross,
Fairfield, Rattlers Run,
<[email protected]>, <dev.ahrma.org>
• Sept. 28 - Oyster Run, Anacortes,
<oysterrun.org>
Wyoming
• May 17-18 - Casper Iron MC Show & Swap,
Casper, Wyoming Central Fairgrounds, Bobby
Eldredge, 307-267-0380, <casperiron.com>,
<[email protected]>
• May 23-25 - Cruizin’ With The Oldies,
Casper, 1700 Fairgrounds Rd.,
<cruizinwiththeoldies.com>
• June 21 - Sweeties On Wheelies charity ride,
Gillette to Casper, Georgette Hoffman
• June 21 - Badlands Relay For Life Poker
Run - Worland, Rumors Sports Bar & Grill,
1515 Big Horn Ave., Keith Van Brunt,
307-259-0161, <[email protected]>
• June 28 - Ladies Over The Top Run, Riverside
to Laramie and back, Lee Ann Stephenson,
307-327-5968, <[email protected]>
• July 9-12 - Wyoming State H.O.G. Rally,
Alpine, Eric Keyes, 306-421-0067,
<[email protected]>
To have your event listed here for free, send the information to Dani Rollison at <[email protected]>.
We only can list the days(s) and name of the event, the city and location of the event, a contact person’s name, e-mail address, phone number or web address.
June 2014
“There are only two mistakes one can make along the road to truth;
not going all the way and not starting.” –Gautama Buddha
Great rides start in Firstgear.
firstgear-usa.com
facebook.com/FirstGearUsa

NRR June 2014 - Northern Rockies Rider

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