Jun. 2012

®

Thunder roads® magazine ohiowww.thunderroadsohio.com

sales office 24381 Aurora Rd., B-8, Bedford Heights, OH 44146

(440)678-8608 FAX (216)754-8103

chief inspiraTion officerWill Roeder

owner / ediTorJulie Roeder

managing ediTor sales & markeTing

Derek Smith 440-785-7331

[email protected]

phoTo ediTor Craig Fetherolf RHS Images

phoTography Craig Fetherolf, Jerry Murray, Crash, Amber Smith, Heather Winniestaffer-Allen, Firedoll Photography

road reps Scott H, Ron R, Amanda W, Craig F, Sue L,

Dennis Albright, Mike C, Sean Hall and Wendy C

conTriBuTors Mary Ann Steffanni, The Iron Cowboy,

Don Hostetler, Amber Smith, Craig Fetherolf, Kit Hedges, Savannah S, Scott “Woody” Wood, Jeff “Stinger” Brown, Misty, Brian Demeter

Melanie , Chris A, Lee Helton, Nick Russell, Jessica

layouT & designMeredith Hancock / Hancock Graphics

subscriptions to Thunder roads ohio are available for $29.95. Check or Money Order, payable to Iron Cowboy Productions, can be sent to 24381 Aurora Road, Suite B-8, Bedford Heights, Ohio 44146. Or you can pay by credit card through PayPal by emailing - [email protected] Additional charges may apply.

naTional foundersToni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon

1528 Matlock Drive / Chapmansboro, TN 37035Office 615-792-0040 / Fax: 615-792-7580

email: [email protected]

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OCCUPIED BY THE ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHED-ULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LIABLE, PLA-GIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PERSON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND CLAIMS MADE BY ADVERTISERS AND AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN, AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE POLICY OF THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES NOT PROMOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.

2 Thunder roads® magazine ohio

Letter from the Editor ........................................................................................4

Road Tales .........................................................................................................6

ABATE of Ohio ................................................................................................. 11

Letters from the Road by Don Hostetler ............................................................ 14

Autism Motorcycle Project - Make It Fit ............................................................. 18

Devil’s Loop ....................................................................................................22

Paint Pics ........................................................................................................ 24

AHDRA Celebrates 35 Years! ............................................................................26

From the Back of the Bike ................................................................................29

Motocross Ohio ................................................................................................30

Chris Streeter ..................................................................................................34

Factory Feature: Triumph Street Triple R ..........................................................42

Father’s Day Tribute ........................................................................................46

Riding Through the Generations ......................................................................50

Biker Bar of the Month: Roadhouse 66 .............................................................52

Buckeye Thunder Run Ride n’ Win! ..................................................................55

Ohio Bike Week ...............................................................................................60

Center Calendar ..............................................................................................64

Parts Slinger ...................................................................................................80

Internal Combustion ........................................................................................82

Event 101: Managing Volunteers ......................................................................86

Ohio Ink ..........................................................................................................90

Custom Feature: Metal Fab Mania ....................................................................92

Paint Pics ........................................................................................................94

Biker Friendly Directory ................................................................................. 102

Thunder Cam ................................................................................................. 105

Thunder Roads Ohio Marketplace ................................................................... 106

Upcoming Events ........................................................................................... 120

K.I.S.S. in the Kitchen .................................................................................... 125

Joker’s Wild .................................................................................................. 127

Bike Night Features ....................................................................................... 128

Thunder roads® magazine ohio 3

Shifting Into High Gear!

As summer heats up and the riding season is well under way, the Thunder Roads Ohio Team is shifting into high gear!

This spring riders have been gathering for Bike Blessings across the state of Ohio, praying for a safe riding season. No matter how careful we are out on the road, inevitably accidents happen and sometimes lives are lost. In May I attended the Biker Memorial Fund (BMF) Ride and Bike Blessing which is held annually on the weekend before Memorial Day. The proceeds are used to build and maintain a Biker Memorial Wall built on the grounds of the American Legion in Sandusky. In lieu of a ticket, you purchase a BMF T-shirt which you must wear to get into the party. As usual they were sold out of the 1200 shirts they printed. It was a pretty powerful sight to see this big group of bikers all wearing the same shirt gathered together to honor the loved ones memorialized on the wall. I commend the organizers of this well run event for giving us such a beautiful monument to remember those that lived the biker lifestyle and have gone before us. I was honored to reminisce with one of the founders of BMF, Jim Burlovich, pictured with me above.

June is the month when we celebrate Father’s Day, so in this issue we invited our readers to share their “Riding with Dad” stories. The inspiration came after a chance meeting I had last year with rider Andy Cleas from Sandusky, when he showed me a picture he was carrying in his wallet of his Grandfather. This photo is featured on our cover.

I have been riding my own bike for over ten years now, so I don’t know why I was thinking that we would only receive stories of Fathers and Sons riding together. I’m happy to report that we heard from several lady riders as well. Some of the stories that begin on page 46 will make you laugh, and some will make you want to cry.

When I was gathering information for the article about the All Harley Drag Racing Association (AHDRA) on page 26, I sat down for a chat with Pro Fuel Drag Racer Chris Streeter from Cleveland. I had briefly met Chris when I handed him his 1st place trophy in the winner’s circle at the AHDRA races in Norwalk two years in a row. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Chris speak about his drag racing experiences. I was enchanted by his dedication and enthusiasm for the sport. His list of accomplishments is quite impressive, especially since he relies mostly on local sponsors and is competing against teams with major league budgets. Speed Magazine, a publication of AHDRA, did a feature story on Chris which we have updated and reprinted on page 34. In that article Chris is quoted as saying, “The first time I launched that bike, it shook so hard I thought my eyeballs were going to come out.”

Before each drag race (or pass), the riders are allowed to perform a burnout, which heats the tires and lays rubber down at the beginning of the track, improving traction. Each rider then lines up (or stages) at the starting line. Races are started electronically by a system known as a Christmas tree. It consists of a column of lights for each rider in their lane and is connected to light beams on the track.

Below the blue “staged” light are three large amber lights, a green light, and a red light. When both riders are staged, the tree is activated to start the race, which causes the three large amber lights to illuminate, followed by the green light. If the red light illuminates it means the rider underestimated his reaction time and took off too soon.

As we make the final preparations for Ohio Bike Week. I can relate to what the racers go through. The Ohio Bike Week crew and the Thunder Roads Ohio team have been in the pits for the past year working hard to come up with new venues, new sponsors, new rides, and new parties for Ohio Bike Week! Now the blue light is illuminated and we are staged and ready to launch. The countdown is on and we are eagerly awaiting that final amber light to go out. We’re ready to blast off when the final light turns green at the start of Ohio Bike Week on June 1st. I just hope my eyeballs don’t pop out!

We’ll see ya’ at the starting line Friday June 1st, and hope for a record breaking year! Oh yeah, and make sure and hang on tight to your handlebars…it’s gonna be one helluva’ ride!


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T H E N A T I O N ’ S L E A D I N G


As told by the Iron Cowboy

Despite what you might guess, I hate spring. Sure it signals the end of winter and is a prelude to Riding Season – but it also means countless 12-15 hour days preparing for the summer’s upcoming events and lots of preparations. But at the end of that tunnel – after hundreds of hours of planning, organizing, and making certain that everything is in place – it’s show time!

June kicks off the season with a bang as we start off with the biggest event of the entire summer – Ohio Bike Week. Dozens of locations, hundreds of volunteers and staff, and thousands of details have all been set to offer the best possible experience for riders joining in the festivities. Nothing is ever perfect and I’m certain that there will be last minute challenges – there always are; but at this point, I’m ready for kick-off! Let’s get this party started!

Thunder Roads will have plenty going on throughout the week – built mostly around our Thunder Zone at Margaritaville. Stop by and pickup your Ride Card if you don’t already have one, along with your Bike Week Passport. The Passport highlights our Thunder Run stops within the area along with a few local destinations that we would recommend as well.

I’d also like to recommend a few particular things that you might not want to miss out on.

On Saturday, June 2nd; Hairy Kat Productions and the Heels n Wheels Ladies will be out at Margaritaville to host some rodeo style games in the parking lot and fun on the deck as well. “Rumor” has it that there will be a camera crew on-site, filming for a reality television show.

Even without the chance for fame and fortune, it’s sure to be a blast – so don’t miss out. Later in the day, the Jackie Band takes the stage and is sure to deliver an incredible performance. Their show last year was one of the most memorable of the Rally, and the Margaritaville Thunder Zone offers a much more intimate party atmosphere.

Also on Saturday and Sunday (6/2-6/3) our friends at Twisted Tea and the American Cornhole Organization (ACO) will be qualifying folks at Margaritaville

for their finals to be held the following weekend. If you enjoy throwing the bags – this is the chance to win big with the “official sanctioning body”.

On Wednesday, June 6th; Jesse James Dupree will host a bourbon infused pub crawl that will end up at Margaritaville. You can get details on the pub crawl schedule at: www.facebook.com/jessejamesspirits That night AHDRA Racer Chris Streeter will also stop by with his bike and The Sons of Anarchy Band will take the stage at Margaritaville.

Throughout the week, Margaritaville will be hosting some of the coolest

vendors at Bike Week – including celebrated tattoo artists, LED Installers, parts and apparel shops, and plenty of great food stops! It’s all at BIKE WEEK PARTY CENTRAL – THE 2012 THUNDER ZONE AT MARGARITAVILLE! Hope to see everyone there.

JusT geT ouT and ride!With riding season now in full swing, more

and more folks are turning to the pages of Thunder Roads in order to find organized rides and events that they can ride to. As

& Baby Bear

Join in the slow races at margaritaville

get a taste of Jesse James – Jesse James Bourbon that is – at ohio Bike week this year. Jesse James dupree, of Jackyl and full Throttle saloon fame, will be hosting a Bourbon tasting at margaritaville (wednesday, June 6th) and leading a pancreatic cancer Benefit ride from mad river harley-davidson on Thursday, June 7th.


much as we obviously enjoy two wheeled events – we would humbly encourage everyone to take some time to just get out and RIDE!

When we designed our Buckeye Thunder Run, it was built around the idea that some of the best days riding are spent discovering where unexplored roads might take us. We present the monthly list of stops as suggestions for your consideration. Each stop has been recommended by readers and checked out by our Editors. It’s our belief that every stop on the list represents a biker friendly destination that is well worth the ride. Sometimes it’s a humble shop offering good food or a cool little biker bar that all

or maybe its the Beer in hand approach that works

apparently its all in the leg kick when it comes to pickle spitting.

the locals swear by – but few more then an hour away would know of. Other spots, such as Frog Town and Jackass Flats, are just stops that we feel that every Ohio rider needs to experience. Sometimes its not even the destination but the ride itself that warrants the trip. There are some cool little spots in Amish country as well as one or two in Southern Ohio that have you riding through some of the most beautiful countryside Ohio has to offer.

We don’t want to discourage you from supporting any local rides or heading out to any rallies – but I would encourage you to simply take a day and go riding. Pick up your Ride Card (see the BTR article on page XX) and choose a stop on this month’s list. Allow yourself some time to dally along the way. Don’t hesitate to pull over and enjoy a roadside view that you barely notice in a cage. The Thunder Run is a summer long promotion that doesn’t require you to rush anywhere. Take your time and enjoy the ride, because that’s really what it’s all about.

a cool fuel slingAs we are running around from event to event, we always

carry an extra can of gas in the Thunder Roads trucks in order to assist any stranded riders we come across. Last year alone, we probably gassed up at least a dozen bikes along the side of the road. With the popularity of bobbers, cut-down choppers, and other slightly less then practical rides gaining – more and more riders are faced with the challenge of managing a smaller and smaller fuel reservoir. As we prepare to unveil a cool new Thunder Roads Bike (oops! Did I let that slip?) we are faced with the prospect of running around with a small peanut tank of juice atop our custom ride. It was with much relief, that we ran into Jarod Bass from Hard Luck Designs.

We are proud to introduce Hard Luck Designs as a new Thunder Roads partner, and you can find out more about them in the Marketplace portion of the magazine. In addition to some really cool custom leather products (seats, belts, and saddlebags) Hard Luck Designs offers a 30oz Fuel Sling that you can laced to the side of your frame. This cool looking “reserve” tank is a functional accessory that features a handmade leather holder that can be customized however you like.

You can find out more about Hard Luck Designs at hard-luck-designs.com


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JUNE 22, 23 & 24

THE WOODS AT KAEPPNER PLACE 34070 SUTTON ROAD

LOGAN, OHIO 43138-9006

Schedule of Events: Friday, June 22nd, 2012 10:00am Gates Open Noon Vendors Open 4:00pm Acoustic Music Starts 6:00pm Trash Run 8:00pm Ten Hour Daze 9:30pm Miss June Jam Contest

Saturday, June 23rd, 2012 8:00am Vendors Open 9:00am Trash Run Poker Run Sign Up 10:00am Poker Run Departs 1:00pm Sign-ups for Rodeo Games, Bike Show, Tattoo Contest, Hammerschlagel 2:00pm Rodeo Games Start 4:00pm Bike Show Line Up – $10.00 entry fee 4:30pm Tattoo Contest 5:00pm Hammerschlagel 6:00pm Meet the Board of Directors. Presentation of all trophies and awards. 8:00pm Time Machine 9:00pm Wet T-Shirt Contest 10:30pm Hot Buns Contest Sunday, June 24th, 2012 8:00am ABATE Products Trailer Open 10:00am Trash Run Noon Check Out, Have A Safe Trip Home & See you for June Jam 2013

Admission:

GATE PRICES: Only $25 per person Membership is Available at the Gate

Pre-Register before June 18th for $5 off Gate price

More Info, Vendors or to Pre-register call 800.25.BIKER or 614.319.3644, or fill out the form in the OutSpokin’ Newsletter, or go online at www.abate.com

NO PETS, NO FIRE ARMS, NO GLASS BOTTLES, NO CHILDREN, NO HASSLES

ABATE of Ohio, Inc. is a 501(c)(4) “Not for Profit” organization. All funds are NOT tax deductible. All Proceeds after expenses benefit ABATE of Ohio, Inc.

Live Music, Biker Games, Contests, Camping, Vendors & More!


EVE

NTS

LEGISLATIVE UPDATEJUNE 2012

BIG NEWS! OUR HANDLEBAR BILL (H .B. 316) UNANIMOUSLY PASSED THROUGH COMMITTEE ON MAY 9, 2012. The amendment changing it from the original bill which included a roadside test requiring a 45 degree turn of the handlebars to its amended form which increases the maximum handlebar height to be shoulder high. This vote passed it out of committee to the floor of the general assembly. We need everyone to contact your House of Representative delegate and let them know that you support this bill and ask them to support this bill as well. Let’s get this thing pushed through before we run out of time and have to start again next year. The House’s summer break is coming up, which means we’re running out of time before elections consume the time of our legislators. Call or email your Representative as soon as possible. Also it’s not too early to thank Rep. Cliff Rosenberger and Rep. Al Landis for sponsoring this bill.

Please email me with the location of any traffic signal that does not activate with a motorcycle triggering it. According to ODOT, there were only 5 traffic signals reported last year. I am still hearing complaints that this is a major problem. I have contact info and will follow up to make sure the signals are adjusted or replaced. Email location of traffic signals that will not activate with a motorcycle to [email protected]

Last month I included a Voter’s Guide Survey. These surveys need to go out to all candidates at the state level for Senate and House of Representative. There is another copy attached to this report. Email the completed survey to [email protected].

Until next month,

Scott “Woody” Wood

Government Relations Director

ABATE of Ohio, Inc.


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Delta Junction To Haines,

Alaska

I left Fairbanks and headed south. Delta Junction is the official terminus of the Alcan Highway at mile post 1,442. On display at the visitor center is some of the actual

equipment used by the Army to construct the highway 69 years ago. The first glimpse of the Alcan Pipeline is here too. It crosses the river on its own suspension bridge.

While at the campground in Anchorage I was told by other riders about the dorm rentals in Fairbanks. At the Fairbanks dorm I heard about Thompson’s Eagle Claw Motorcycle Campground in Tok, so I decided this would be my next destination. I pulled in and was greeted by a menu of options. Pick one, set up and the owner will be around later to collect the fee.

My choices were: a 15’ diameter tee pee with 2 cots $20.00; a 7X14 wall tent with 2 cots $20.00; an out of service ambulance that sleeps 2 $20.00; a tent site $10.00; a private cabin $40.00; or my selection – a spot in a 4 bed bunkhouse $10.00. My cabin was equipped with a small propane heater and a supply of mosquito coils. There was a community kitchen set up in the center of camp. By far the best amenity was the separate cabin which housed a motorcycle work shop complete with tools, drain pans, motorcycle jacks and left over spare parts and usable tires.

The campground was established and has been owner operated for 11 years by a middle aged single lady. What a novel way to meet guys! She came by later and asked each of us eight campers if we would like to use the sauna. It was wood fired as she had no electricity but hoped to get it by next year.

I was up early and on the road for the 370 mile ride to Haines. This leg of the journey led me out of the US into the Yukon, through British Columbia, then back into the US arriving in Haines at 5 PM. I had reserved a B&B and for the first time

in 18 days had my own private bathroom. It was Friday evening and I enjoyed cocktails’ at the local

American Legion and dinner at the Elks Club. Over a nice breakfast at my B&B I talked with the only other guest, a Californian exploring Alaska in his Jeep. Then I was off to the boat docks for my 9 AM ferry to Juneau.

There are only three surface routes in to and out of Alaska. The first one is the Alaska Marine Highway, AKA The Alaska Ferry, which is the way I traveled on this particular trip. The second is the Alkan Highway, AKA The Alaskan Highway. The third one is the Taylor Highway to The Top Of The World Highway. Some of my most vivid memories of Alaska are the views afforded from The Top Of The World Highway on the way to Dawson City, in the Yukon Territory. I chose to take this alternate route on a trip back I took back in 2008. I’d like to share some of that travel log with you now.


The route from Tok, Alaska to Whitehorse in the Yukon Territory via Chicken, Alaska and Dawson City in the Yukon Territory is 498 miles long. It ends back on the Alcan Highway. Eleven miles outside of Tok is the turn off for The Taylor Highway. The next 160 miles are paved roads that end at town of Chicken. The following 100 miles, The Top Of The World Highway to Dawson City, Yukon Territory, are hard packed gravel. If you ever travel that way, don’t let ‘em scare ya! That 100 miles is hard packed and well maintained. The population of Chicken is only seven. It was named by the prospectors because they couldn’t spell Ptarmigan, the name of the bird they hunted down and ate. It resembled a chicken, a word they could spell. I rode up the dirt road to a 10X15 one room log cabin Post Office and visited with the Post Mistress. She explained that mail is delivered there twice a week. The town of Chicken consists of a campground, cafe, bar, store, and fuel. Travelers there cannot resist taking the opportunity to have their picture taken next to the “I got laid in Chicken, Alaska” sign.

I headed out from Chicken at the start of

the Top Of The World Highway. It is named appropriately as it winds along the crests of the mountains, giving you an unobstructed view of the valleys and rivers below. What an awesome ride! Sixty miles later I reached the Poker Creek Border Crossing, the most northerly customs check point in North America. The elevation there is 4,127’. I continued down the highway across another forty miles of Yukon gravel and dirt until theroad abruptly ended at the banks of

the Yukon River.

I had to wait for the government run ferry to drop its gang plank and then rode thru the sand to board the ship for the 5 minute crossing to Dawson City. The ferry is free and runs twenty-four hours, seven days a week in the summer. Dawson City’s population 1,369. It is located at the confluence of the Yukon and Klondike Rivers. It was home to the 1897 Klondike

Gold Rush and was formerly the territorial capital. It is an interesting town with lots of history. I watched several videos at the tourist center and discovered that dance hall queen, Diamond Tooth Gertie Lovejoy, opened Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Gambling Hall here in 1898. The Visitors Association now operates the hall and in 1970 obtained a special non-profit Canadian gambling license. One hundred percent of the profits


from the gambling hall go back into restoring this beautiful town. The hall has table games and slot machines and nightly they hold a lively stage show featuring the Gertie Girls Can-Can Dancers.

It is such a gorgeous town, with all the restored buildings painted in bright pastels. The main street running along the river is paved. All the rest are strictly dirt and bordered by wooden sidewalks. I visited the Library to use the internet. The sign advised me to “Remove shoes before entering”.

Rooms here are of course outrageously expensive, starting at $125.00 and up. The only exception was the two story Dawson City Bunkhouse, where I paid $65.00 for a 6X10 room with two single beds and two chairs. The showers and toilets were down the exterior hallway. There was a tiny electric heater on the night stand for heat and a single window with a screen on the slim chance it might become too warm.

Bombay Peggy’s Victorian Inn & Pub was located next door to my room at the Bunkhouse. According to local lore, it was a brothel for numerous year. It was deemed “a necessary evil” by the local law enforcement. That is until 1966, when they evidently had a change of heart and decided it was both evil and UN-necessary. They ran Peggy, the last remaining Madam, out of business!

I got up early and rode five miles to The Midnight Dome, a dome shaped mountain towering about 1,700 feet above Dawson City. From there I took in the breathtaking 360 degree view of the entire city and both the Klondike and Yukon River Valleys. I arrived at the perfect time when the clouds were far below me and still resting in the valleys. Twenty-five miles east of Dawson City is the The Dempster Highway. Leading North, it is the only other North American road which crosses the Arctic Circle. This road is even more challenging than the Dalton Haul Road. It is 251 miles of gravel to the Arctic Circle and beyond that another 199 miles of

gravel to its termination at the town of Inuvik. The population Inuvik is a whopping 3,458. Fuel is only available along the way at mile posts 229, 342 and once you reach Inuvik. I left Dawson City along The North

Klondike Loop - Highway 2, which is completely paved for the next 331 miles and connected back to the Alcan Highway at Whitehorse, the territorial capital. Along this route fuel stations were available between 50 and 85 miles apart.

Although I thoroughly enjoyed taking this route on my 2008 Alaskan trip, I was looking forward to taking the Alaska Marine Highway this time around.



By Julie roeder

While checking out the vendors and displays at the Easyrider Bike Show in Columbus back in February I ran into Mark Beckner of Beckner’s Custom Cycles in Alexandria, Ohio near Columbus. Mark invited me over to his booth to see the latest build project they had just completed, a bike that is being raffled off to benefit Autism research. He explained that the drive behind the project came from Mike Hoover, a friend of his who has two sons affected by Autism. Mark told me “Julie, you gotta meet this guy. I’ve never seen anybody else who has been able to rally such an incredible amount of support and backing for a charitable cause.”

I ended up spending a couple of hours hanging out at their booth witnessing Mike as he spoke with the hundreds of people who stopped by to check out the totally cool bike. It seemed that Autism had touched the lives of almost everyone who came by the booth.

His passion for this cause is infectious, and it didn’t take long to see that once you are introduced to Mike and his mission you want to help. For some it is in a small way by just buying a raffle ticket on the bike, or by volunteering to help at one of his numerous fundraising events. For others it is at a much larger level by donating legal and professional services or prizes such as the bike for the “Autism Motorcycle Project - Make It Fit. “

Mike came by our Thunder Roads Ohio booth later in the day and sat down with me and Leisa Nikolejevs, who is a contributor for our magazine. Leisa’s seventeen year old son Sam was also

diagnosed with Autism at the age of three. As I listened to them talk, I realized how little I knew about this disease and how it has now come to reach almost epidemic proportions.

Since then I’ve been following Mike and his pursuit to raise money for research and awareness for Autism on Facebook, and I have been truly amazed at the magnitude of his efforts.

I recently traveled down to Quaker Steak and Lube in Columbus to catch up with Mike at one of their Bike

Nights which are held every Wednesday night. The crew from Beckner’s Custom Cycles was also on hand and had the Autism Motorcycle on display loaded on the back of a customized Chevy truck.

Thunder Roads Ohio (TRO): Mike, your passion is evident in your fight against Autism. When we were down at the Easyrider Show, you told me that last year you were invited to speak at The Arnold, an annual Fitness Trade Show held in Columbus. I was taken aback by the response you received from the audience when you asked the question about how many people knew someone who was affected by Autism fifteen years ago compared to today.

Mike Hoover (MH): Fifteen years ago the statistics were

Autism Motorcycle Project - Make It Fit

adam and erin at statehouse


kip meeks and mark Beckner

Julie roeder at Quaker sterak with mike hoover and rich the lube guy

about 1 in 10,000. Now they are 1 in 88. I asked for a show of hands in a room of about 3,000 people who knew someone with autism fifteen years ago. MAYBE twenty people raised their hands. I remember telling everyone “Take a look around the room. Take a good look.” I paused for about 10 seconds and asked the next question. ”Now how many people in this room know someone with Autism today?” I remember getting chills and an overwhelming feeling from them as we all looked around to see every single person in a room of 3,000 plus with their hands in the air. I then said “Now look around. There is something VERY wrong with this. And it’s time to make it stop.” I went on to finish my speech, and felt a renewed sense of purpose.

Tro: I understand that early intervention is key for children with Autism and that Ohio does not measure up to other states in providing the coverage needed. In April you attended the 8th Annual Autism Awareness Day, held in the Atrium of the Ohio Statehouse. There is currently a bill in Ohio Legislation that would provide insurance coverage for children with Autism. Has there been headway made in thisas HasHas legislation that is so crucial for these kids and their families?mh: Yes, early intervention is very significant. We now have the support of several key Legislators and the Bill will once again head through the Ohio House & Senate, to hopefully once and for all get Autism covered by insurance in Ohio. Autism Speaks has also hired the best lobbyists in the State to get it done this time, and there’s a group of activists who also happen to be parents of kids on the Autism spectrum, that are hounding them to get it done. All it takes is to let our Senators and Representatives hear from parents and friends on a direct level, like a phone call to their office or even make

an appointment to see them. There’s no stronger influence than a personal story, and there’s no stronger drive than that of a parent. Every little bit makes a difference.

Tro: Your fundraising efforts for several Autism-related charities began in 2007 with the annual “All About Autism Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show”. This year’s event is being held at the Quaker Steak and Lube (QSL) in Columbus on August 18th. I understand QSL has been a big supporter of your cause. Tell me about how this event has grown.

mh: Wow. Where to start. It all began with me and a fellow dad of a son with Autism deciding to put on a little neighborhood cruise-in. That was on a Friday afternoon. The following Monday morning I received a phone call from a radio station, live on the air, asking me what was going on and if we needed help. After explaining

our event, and saying “Yes, we need help” he gave my phone number on the air requesting people to help. My phone immediately started ringing it hasn’t stopped since. The first guy that called was Steve Stinchcomb of the band Six Pack Theory. He said “I have a son with autism, and we’re playing at your event”. I said “Cool, thank you”. The rest is history.

I went to Quaker Steak and Lube to pass out flyers for our event, met some people, and five weeks later pulled off a miracle. An estimated 5,000 people came that day and we had a seven acre parking lot completely full of cars, trucks, bikes. There was food available and a band playing and we had things for kids to do, such a bounce house, a dunk tank and games. People brought their entire families. Kids with Autism and their families were happy to enjoy the car & bike show, have some fun, and just breathe and be normal for a day. The car & bike owners all understood why we were there,

mike hoover and Julie roeder

at easyriders show


and that some of the kids were different. They knew very little about Autism at that time, but came anyway. They came to support kids who needed it.

As soon as that first event was over, Rich and Teri Marinucci from Quaker Steak and Lube in Columbus approached me to offer their facility for our event the following year. They also told me that if I needed anything to let them know and they would help me in any way they could. We decided to move the event to Quaker Steak & Lube in 2008 and give it a try. We were floored by the help and support we received from the car & bike community here in Ohio and their response to our event. I remember seeing almost every single person and car from our first event return for the second year, and also saw a few new cars, bikes and faces. Then in the third, fourth and fifth years, it was the same thing. The same people from the every year keep coming back, and it just keeps growing and growing. We have also expanded the Kid’s Area so there are more things for the kids to do in a safe environment. It is surrounded with double wall construction fencing and several volunteers are on hand to keep the kids safe. Kids with Autism are not only welcomed at our events, they’re expected. Quaker Steak and Lube has been instrumental in our success.

My employer and friend of the past 24 years, Keith Boyd, Owner of Boyd’s Goodyear Tire & Service Centers has been there from day one and offered his support and more importantly his belief in me and what we were doing. Boyd’s has since become one of the largest supporters of Autism charities in Ohio, and every year our staff has pitched in to help make the event a huge success. Our co-workers, vendors, friends, and even our customers go out of their way to help support us in any way they can.

Tro: Now in its third year, the Ohio Ride for Autism will be held on Saturday July 28th, departing from C&A Harley-Davidson in Plain City, Ohio. From the sound of it, this event is growing rapidly as well and the folks at C&A have recently committed to an extremely generous contribution to support it.

mh: I am truly blessed. As you know, there are no greater people in the world than the biker community when it comes to supporting children and the military. C&A Harley Davidson has really stepped up this year and offered their support of our events and the efforts of our organization. Adonna & Dena Besece, Melissa Burkitt and the rest of the staff at C&A have been a joy to work with and have done an outstanding job for us. They’ve committed to giving us a brand new Harley-Davidson to raffle off, as well as a very generous monetary donation for our charity, The Make It Fit Foundation. They are also raffling off a 2nd bike on June 23rd during their American Motorcycle Rally Party. The proceeds from that raffle will benefit The Make It Fit Foundation, the Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s Autism Center and the Ingram Autism Research Center. This research center is a joint venture between the Ohio State University and the Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Their research and science projects have already seen great results and will have worldwide impact in the fight against Autism. Their hearts are in the right place, and they’re doing it

for all the right reasons – to help kids affected by Autism and their families. It warms my heart to know there are so many good people out there that just want to help make a difference. I’m extremely humbled and grateful to say the least.

The Ohio Ride for Autism event has doubled every year, and this year our goal is to reach 1,000 bikes and riders. It is a fun, laid-back event, with beautiful scenery on safe two-lane country roads. No freeways. There are smiles on every face when we get to the end of the ride, which will be at Quaker Steak and Lube again this year where we’ll have raffles, auctions, and lots of great people. And of course they have the food and drinks available too.

Every year we get more and more support, allowing us to make an even bigger impact on Autism as we know it. There is never any doubt as to why we are there. We’re there to help kids, and to make a difference.

What makes both of our events so successful and popular is the fact that we are all just regular people - friends, parents, brothers and sisters, and even total strangers that come together for the right reasons. Our events are peaceful, relaxed, and

are tons of fun. There is a strange sense of calmness that surrounds us there and something truly special that you really can’t describe or put your finger on, but everyone knows. And it shows in their eyes and in their smiles.

Tro: It seems that your fundraising efforts have been snowballing, and last fall the Make it Fit Foundation was formed. Tell me about your vision and the Foundation’s mission.mh: The Make It Fit Foundation is a non-profit organization, and the basis for our name is indicative of our main goals. The puzzle piece has become the symbol for Autism Awareness. It is a representation of the puzzle that Autism has become. The Make It Fit Foundation aspires to “fit” the missing pieces together to help bring about more research, better treatment and someday hopefully even a cure for Autism. In doing so, we elicit the help of motorcycle and car enthusiasts as well as the fitness industry in various capacities. In order to fit the missing pieces into this intricate puzzle, we organize races, power-lifting meets, car shows, motorcycle rides and other fund-raisers. Our goal is to include fitness businesses, organizations and events in our efforts. We also continue to rely on Motorcycle, Car and Truck enthusiasts, our loyal supporters from the very beginning, when The Make It Fit Foundation was nothing but a dream.

The Make it Fit Foundation’s mission is to develop and maintain a community of caring, unified and knowledgeable individuals in an effort to support individuals with Autism Disorders. We raise money for and awareness of this disorder, while at the same time encouraging all individuals on every side of this endeavor to get involved on any level, because it all makes a difference. Most importantly, The Make It Fit Foundation will serve as a bridge to bring not only car enthusiasts and the biker community, but also the Fitness Industry and Autism Awareness together, a collaboration that will make a measureable and


sustainable difference in the lives of people with Autism.

Tro: I can see that “The Autism Motorcycle Project – Make it Fit” bike is a labor of love for you and the guys at Beckner’s Custom Cycles. I know there were many others involved in making it happen.

mh: Mark Beckner and Kip Meeks of Beckner’s Custom Cycles were there from day one. We’ve been trying for 6 years now to build an autism bike, and this year we were finally able to do it. Actually, I think we were meant to do it. The frame was painted by Bryan Barber and the incredible artwork was done by Steve “Copperhead” Stritenberger both with Sinners and Saints Choppers. Jarod of Hard Luck Designs donated and designed the custom seat. TJ Tomlin of Big City Rides and Customs provided the body work and the blue base paint. TJ also has a son with autism, and I wanted him to do it. The paint itself was supplied by National Coatings and Supplies in Rockford, Illinois. Having a local build done by local guys for the right reason has meant the world to me.

Tro: The paint job on the bike is just amazing. What was the inspiration for it and what is the meaning behind the slogan “Putting the Pieces Together.”mh: The inspiration for the paint theme came to us the very first day we met at Beckner’s in December. We knew we wanted floating puzzle pieces in the paint that were spaced far apart on the front fender and on the front of the tank. As they headed to the back of the bike we wanted them to get closer and closer together to finally form a puzzle/picture depicting children who are studying, learning, and looking for answers. The arms and hands on the rear fender are there to put it all together and also to embrace it.

The puzzle piece has become the most recognized symbol of Autism is also part of our Foundation’s logo as well. The logo is a blue heart made up of seven puzzle pieces, one for each of the original members of our organization. The blue heart represents not only love, but finding the answers to help heal the heartache so many have gone through as a result of Autism. The blue heart is just that – a blue heart that’s also broken and needs to be put back together again. The details of the children are incredible. The choice of color and style and all the chrome are an incredible combination. Kip did an amazing job on the build and Steve really found the spirit we were looking for. We just let them go with it. I rarely talked to them. They were all on a mission to get it done. Everyone involved just seemed to “know” without being told, and the last thing they needed was me bugging them. They finished the bike in just 45 days. That in itself is amazing.

Tro: When are you giving the bike away?mh: We’re giving the bike away at The Autism Speaks Walk

in Columbus on Sunday October 14th. I will be heartbroken to see it go, and probably broke as shit too. But it’s all good, I’m doing what I’m supposed to do.

Tro: I am sure that all the families out there with children affected by Autism are so very grateful for your tireless efforts. Your schedule is grueling with working full time, shared parenting of your two sons, and on the road all year taking the Make It Fit Raffle Bike around. You’ve got to be tired, but I can see that you won’t rest until a cure is found.

mh: There will be plenty of time to sleep when I’m dead. The encouragement we get from people is incredible. When they come and thank us for what we’re doing, it inspires us to keep going. It serves as a reminder that we’re doing what’s right. Most people have no idea what it’s like to live in a house where Autism lives too. Autism is relentless, 24 hours a day, every

day. When we decided to fight back we knew that we’d have to be just as relentless. Seriously, I don’t think people can fathom what it takes. To me it has become normal. Eighteen to 20 hour days, 7 days a week for months and months on end. No problem..lol

My own life has become like a giant puzzle, or like a connect the dot picture. The “dots” in my life have been lining up for years. Now it’s time for me to connect them. I never ask why someone or some opportunity has come into my life. I just accept it and roll with it.

I’m lucky to be surrounded by an amazing group of people and I have Trust and Faith that it will all work out. We meet new people, and make new connections every place we go. It’s been incredible so far! The support and encouragement we’ve received has been truly inspiring for us, and we won’t let them down.

Tro: Thunder Roads Ohio is happy to join your cause during Ohio Bike Week. We are honored to be among the many stops you will be making this summer on the Autism Motorcycle Project – Make It Fit tour. The bike will be on display and entries for the drawing will be available at two of our Thunder Road Zones – Margaritaville on the first weekend and at the State Theatre in downtown Sandusky on the second weekend.

mh: We’re proud to be able to make it to Ohio Bike Week. It will be many people’s first and only chance to see the bike, and get entered for a chance to win it. I’m truly grateful for all of the support Thunder Roads has given us. You’re the kind of people we should all try to be. I’m so happy to have met you and Leisa and some of your other staff members. You’ve all been a joy to be around. All I can say is God Bless You and Thank You from the bottom of my heart, and from the Autism community not only here in Ohio, but nationwide.

Nine years ago I made a promise to the little boy in this picture when he disappeared into the depths of Autism after being totally typical up until about 18 months of age. To see your child disappear like that is heart wrenching to say the least. I promised him I’d get him “out of there” or that I would die trying. This is part of that promise. And by helping other kids and their families, I will help my own….Mike Hoover


By Julie roeder

or several years now, one of the absolute favorite routes for the local riders on the North Coast of Ohio is between three tropically themed establishments. Due to its popularity, the owners

of the three venues have collaborated and now invite you to ride the “Devils Loop”. They have all been busy over the winter making improvements and are now ready and excited to welcome the riders back for the 2012 season.

Big things have happened since last year at Margaritaville in Sandusky, Ohio. The Mexican themed restaurant was once the home of a flour mill and is nestled alongside Cold Creek at the mouth of Lake Erie. It has always been a popular riding destination. The freshly paved extended parking lot is practically as long as a drag strip and just screams burnouts! The concrete second tier of bike parking, next to the newly added walkway along the creek, beckons larger motorcycle crowds than ever before d.

While you and your friends are chilling out and swapin’ road stories on the newly expanded deck, you truly feel you are in a tropical paradise. It’s a perfect place to meet up and grab a bite to eat before you set your course to Ride the Devil’s Loop. You can enjoy a full menu in the downstairs restaurant with a phenomenal view of the waterfall that once powered the mill. From there you will often see fisherman trying their luck at catching trout in the creek. They have added a kitchen on the deck this year for those of you who would rather enjoy your meal outside.

Margaritaville will sure to be “Party Central” during Ohio Bike Week and we couldn’t have found a better spot to host our “Thunder Road Zone” headquarters. You won’t want to miss the annual stop at Margaritaville on August 14th during the Thunder Roads Ohio sponsored Rolling Bike Night tour. It is always highly anticipated and the largest turnout of the series.

The next stop on the Loop is 2 Cans, a beach themed gathering spot located in Vickery, Ohio, just a short ride from Sandusky. The relaxing atmosphere of this Tiki Bar draws regular riders from Cleveland, Toledo, and Columbus who are looking to get out of town to a cool destination. On a nice summer day the parking lot is always full of bikes and cars, with boats and jet skis docked along the shore. There are food concessions on-site to satisfy your hunger pangs.

2 Cans is popular stop on Poker Rums and their spacious parking lot can accommodate a large group. Mark your Calendars for the their big event on August 19th. Put on your “boogie shoes” and head to 2 Cans to dance to the tunes of the Cleveland based band “Disco Inferno”.

The final stop on the Loop is Jimmy Bukkets located at Memory Marina in Fremont, Ohio. The Marina boasts a campground, public ramp, gas dock and carry-out. There is nothing but fun to be had after you park your bike on the concrete pad along the Sandusky River. You instantly feel welcome as you walk to the Tiki Bar at the end of the peninsula. There are several places to relax and enjoy a few cold ones among the brightly colored chairs and thatched


covered picnic tables. There’s also a covered spot with swings underneath to take a break from the sun. The live music will make you want to kick off your shoes and boogie barefoot in the sand.

New to Jimmy Bukkets this year is the “Oar House”. They have just completed the new bar built out of an old Lyman boat, and they are ready for you to come and earn your sea legs. It is housed under a pavilion built over the water, with drinks being served from inside the boat and seating all the way around. The folks at Jimmy Bukkets are excited to be hosting one of our Rolling Bike Nights for the first time this year on July 17th.

There is a full schedule of live entertainment on every weekend at all three stops along Devil’s Loop. Jimmy Bukkets and 2 Cans are open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Margaritaville is open seven days a week throughout the Summer. Check out the map of Devil’s Loop and find more details on the ride in the ad on page 73.

Look for the “Twisted Tea” Trike giving away free swag along Devil’s Loop when the ride kicks off during Ohio Bike Week. To satisfy the Devil in you come out and “Ride the Loop” – if you dare! I know I’ll be riding the route often this summer. Can’t wait to see ya’ there!


CENTRAL OHIO 24 Thunder roads® magazine ohio


By Julie roeder

My first experience with the All Harley Drag Racing Association (AHDRA) was in its early years, when Ace and Dane, two “good old southern boys” were at the helm. I was contacted by Ace in the early ‘90’s to help promote the sanctioned race that was going to be held at Norwalk Raceway Park in Norwalk, Ohio.

For several years the drag races were part of the “Rock & Race Rally” event based out of the Huron County Fairgrounds in Norwalk. The weekend long event also featured an AMA Regional Half Mile Dirt Track Race and national act concerts, most notably being John Kay and Steppenwolf. Little did we know then that over the years this event would morph into Ohio Bike Week (OBW), which has now become the premiere motorcycle rally in the Midwest.

Believing that the North Coast of Ohio held much to be desired in the way of a motorcycle rally, the local chapter of Harley-Davidson’s HOG Club, the Huron River Harley Owners Group, hosted the Ohio State H.O.G. Rally in 1999 and 2000. The highlights of this event were the AHDRA Drag Races and the now famous Motorcycle Parade and Block Party in Downtown Sandusky.

As was customary, after two years the State Rally moved on to a new location. But the local community and area motorcycle enthusiasts wanted this popular event to continue. So in 2001 the City of Sandusky hosted the first annual North Coast Thunder Rally over the course of a 3-Day weekend, with rides and events held throughout the area. With the rally gaining momentum and expanding to a whole week of activities, it was rebranded as Ohio Bike Week in 2006. Today OBW has grown to include ten days of Ridin’, Rock’n, and Racin’ along Ohio’s North Coast of Lake Erie, with events being held from Toledo to Cleveland.

Rally Officials consider the AHDRA races to be an integral part of the growth and success of the event. Drag Racing enthusiasts travel from all over the country to attend the races which are held at one of the finest drag racing facilities in the country. Commonly referred to as “America’s Racetrack”, the track has undergone several major renovations. The most recent expansion included renaming of the track to Summit Motorsports Park, and earned them a spot on the exclusive National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) circuit.

AHDRA began as a club racing organization in the late seventies and continued over the years

PLENTY OF SPEED ON TAP AT THE AHDRA-OHIO BIKE WEEK NATIONALS!

All Harley Drag Racing Association Celebrates 35 Years!


under many different names. All Harley Drag Racing Association (AHDRA) became the official licensed name for the sanction in 1991. AHDRA has seen phenomenal growth over the years, with racer participation that started with 50-60 entries to events that now range with anywhere from 250 to 450 entries. Motorcycle drag racing fans have increasingly filled the stands over the years, giving AHDRA a range of 5,000 to 12,500 attendees at each event.

This remarkable sport is considered one of the most exceptional in today’s motorsports marketplace. Each event ticket is a “Pit Pass” that allows fans to circulate the pits, meet the race teams, and gain an up-close look at their high-powered machines. AHDRA racers and their crews are always willing to spend time with their fans to answer questions or sign autographs.

Their dedication to professionalism and safety has fueled the sanction’s growth throughout the years. The positive response has resulted in valuable relationships with loyal sponsors such as AHDRA Series Sponsor, Screamin’ Eagle Performance Parts. Thanks largely to the support of our many sponsors, AHDRA has the largest payout in the history of Harley drag racing at well over one million dollars in cash and product.

The AHDRA crew is very excited to be celebrating their 35th year in 2012. While 2011 was a season that contained some of the most exciting championship title contests in the history of the sanction, AHDRA anticipates that the 2012 season will excel with even more of the excitement, energy, and adrenaline that can come only from this extreme sport. With 16 different classes ranging from 230-mph Top Fuel bikes to the highly competitive ET class, racers have a wide range of competition available to them at AHDRA.

Much has changed since those early days of

AHDRA. The phenomenal growth and increased professionalism of the sport has been rewarding to see. Ohio Bike Week attendees will be able to experience the incredible feeling of the motorcycle lifestyle through heart-pounding AHDRA drag racing and all the events that the rally has to offer. For more race information visit AHDRA online at www.ahdra.com or call 336-924-2095.

There is only one way to conclude Ohio Bike Week and that’s with a drag race. We’re not talking about any old drag race. We’re talking about the largest, loudest and most exciting All Harley drag race in the Midwest! Don’t miss it!

Come to the 22nd Annual AHDRA Ohio Bike Week Nationals and see: It’s a GIGANTIC Weekend of....ground pounding, fuel guzzling, teeth chattering ‘NITRO ACTION’ on TWO WHEELS!

• The World’s Fastest Harley’s!

• 230 mile-per hour Nitro Harley’s!

• Modfied Gas Bikes!

• V-Rod Destroyers!

• Street Bikes!

• 16 Classes of Harley Competition!

• Manufacturer’s Midway!


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By nancy BeachAs the weather warms and there are

more bikes on the road, we are seeing many more women riding their own bikes. I think this is very cool but I also think that this is something that I will never do!

This article is for those of us that are very happy on the back. And believe me…if you saw how I drive my car, you would be thanking me for making this

decision. Juggling the coffee, the cell and the lipstick….well, I think you get the point.

I like being on the back. I don’t have to think or be focused. I can enjoy the ride and take in the scenery. Now, that does not mean that I do not participate in the whole process. I feel I have my very own responsibilities on the back. Someone has to point out things along the way that may be missed. For instance: “Hey, I don’t think we have been to that bar!” “Nice rose bushes!” “Did you see that 49’ Pan back there for sale!” The important things along the way that are of interest to both of you!

I didn’t just wake up one morning and have all of this valuable insight to share. As of all of you…I had that first ride that made me fall in love with riding on the back. So you are 15 years old and your older brother has that really cool friend that you have a secret crush on. And, he has a bike. Remember the day he told you that he would give you a ride? Could you have been more excited?

By the time that ride was over, the crush was more about the bike than it was about your brother’s friend!

Maybe your first ride was about that guy that asked you out. So you dated a couple times and he asks you over to his place. Looks good from the outside. But his living room consists of a card table, a bean bag chair and a Harley with a lot of parts and tools around it. Did you run? Not a chance! You secretly thought…Hmmm! I can cook dinner while he works on the bike because warm weather is coming and I want to ride on that!

My first ride was very simple! So I’m kind of seeing a guy and he had said he had a bike. OK…fine. We run into each other at a summer festival and he asks me to go to dinner. Nothing exciting yet. We get on his bike and go to dinner. Seems pretty simple to have a nice little ride. Except that he didn’t have a seat on the back. No seat whatsoever! No sissy bar…no pee pad. But the fun thing was I didn’t even think about it when he said “get on!” So yes, I rode the fender for my first ride. Obviously it worked for me because I have been on the back of that bike ever since. And, I might add, there is a seat on it now!

First rides are great and make memories! And it is not one of those things that you say you want to do again. No! You want to do it again and again and again! And some of us stay on the back forever!

So this is for my Sisters that made the leap from the back to the front…I respect you! And for the ones, like me, that are just taking it all in from the back!


HarescrambleJune 3, 2012 - Skyview - Team RaceJune 10, 2012 - LightningJune 17, 2012 - Western Reserve - Buckeye SeriesJune 23, 2012 - Clearfork Ski ResortJune 24, 2012 - Clearfork Ski Resort - XX Pts

July 1, 2012 - LLR - Buckeye SeriesJuly 8, 2012 - Pine Lake - Team RaceJuly 14, 2012 - Skyview - Willy Miller ClassicJuly 15, 2012 - Skyview - Buckeye SeriesJuly 22, 2012 - LLR July 28, 2012 - Lightning - Afternoon EventJuly 29, 2012 - Lightning - Buckeye Series

August 5, 2012 - Big GameAugust 12, 2012 - Pine Lake - Buckeye SeriesAugust 19, 2012 - LLRAugust 26, 2012 - Lightning

Motocross June 1, 2012 - PymatuningJune 2, 2012 - Malvern... Bikes Only - Pro DayJune 3, 2012 - Western ReserveJune 8, 2012 - PymatuningJune 9, 2012 - Amherst - Day EventJune 10, 2012 - Amherst - Sunoco SeriesJune 15, 2012 - Pymatuning June 16, 2012 - MalvernJune 17, 2012 - Pymatuning - Sunoco SeriesJune 22, 2012 - PymatuningJune 23, 2012 - Coshocton County FairgroundsJune 24, 2012 - TV LandJune 29, 2012 - Pymatuning June 30, 2012 - Lightning - Day EventJune 30, 2012 - Malvern

July 1, 2012 - Lightning - Sunoco SeriesJuly 6, 2012 - PymatuningJuly 7, 2012 - Malvern - Sunoco SeriesJuly 8, 2012 - AmherstJuly 13, 2012 - Pymatuning July 14, 2012 - PymatuningJuly 15, 2012 - PymatuningJuly 21, 2012 - MalvernJuly 22, 2012 - TV LandJuly 24, 2012 - Knox County FairJuly 28, 2012 - Pymatuning All events are listed as per the information submitted to Thunder Roads Ohio. TRO is not responsible for inaccuracies or the specifics of the information provided. If you would like your event listed, please email details and your contact information to: [email protected]

presented by

COMPETITION ACCESSORIES SPRINGFIELD, OHIO


paM sHiffert teaM 7 acre Mix

season opener first race Day

With the race season starting and our MX track , 7 Acres, being redesigned, the Shiffert family members have been very busy. We had the owner of Fastraxx MX , who is also the machine operator for Dirt Wurx, redesign the practice track that is located in our backyard. We have had a wonderful response to the new design, which is a blend of a Supercross and a Motocross track. The riders already seem to love it.

In addition to working on our track, over the weekend we traveled to the season opener at Delta Raceway. The timing was perfect as our son Justin finished up his Track and Field session in high school last week. The weather was hot Saturday afternoon when our family headed off to Delta to race and hang out with old and new fellow race friends. We met up with a few riders that practice at our track and also ran into Bars Race Team who we race with several times every year.

We always try to arrive at the track early for race nights. Not much is more frustrating than arriving late to the races and having to scramble to get ready, ESPECIALLY for your first

motocross race of the year. Upon arrival at the track before you unload everything, the first order of business is to go to registration and pay for your class of racing. You need to make sure you have a membership if one is required for that particular track. Step two is to walk that track. Even if you have rode the track the before, things may have changed or there may be a better line that you didn’t see before.

As usual after Justin finished walking the track, he went over his bike again. This task included checking the tire pressure, the wheel spokes, and the chain lube. Then he was off for his first practice. It didn’t go so well. He crashed on a tabletop but was able to get up and finish. When he came in he stated that his shoulder and ankle were hurting. His second practice went much better than the first. Afterward he took the time to drink up and rehydrate, which is always important.

The races were then posted and the adrenaline started to pour out of the racers. On race day Justin always tries to stay strong and keep loose. He went

through his usual ritual of stretching out and walking around, because if he would sit he would tighten up. Then it was time to get his gear on, roll his bike up to the starting gate, make his starting groove and start the bike.

The gates dropped and Moto 1 was underway. The first Moto went okay although he had some problems and a minor accident. He was able to get up and ride away with the rest of the pack and finished in 3rd place. Then it was back to the pits to again rehydrate, relax, and stretch in preparation for Moto 2. Everything was finally coming together for Justin when mid-race he realized he was running too hard and needed to relax and breathe, resulting in another 3rd place finish in Moto 2.

At the end of the day Justin placed 3rd overall. David Blevins of Bars Racing placed 2nd and Joey McNeil placed 1st. Justin went home with some bumps and bruises but overall it was a good night spent with family and friends. Fun was had by all and Sunday morning brought the start of another week of practice to prepare for the next race.



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By dana meeks

“One of the most peaceful moments in life is nosing into the staging beams. My mind becomes very quiet. Time slows down.”

Peaceful? Quiet? Slow? Not adjectives most people would choose to describe lining up a nitro-buring Harley for a thunderous 200-mile-per-hour blast down the quarter mile. But then, most people don’t have the experience, determination, and grit of two-time Pro Fuel National Champion Chris Streeter.

The oldest of four children, Chris grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, where he and his Akita, named Kodiak, make their home today. Chris owns and operates Supreme Painting, a company that specializes in premium-quality home restoration.

Chris has been enthusiastic about motorcycles all his life, beginning with a Briggs & Stratton powered mini-bike. He was 10 when he bought his first Harley, a 49’ Panhead in a rigid frame; today his daily drive is a 98-inch stroked Shovel-in a rigid frame.

Many years ago Chris had the good fortune of meeting Frank Andrus, a skilled mechanic and owner of Clone Cylce. “Frank was a great teacher and a huge influence,” noted Chris. “He

taught me to think in thousandths of an inch.”Frank basically taught Chris how to build a Harley motor.

“Frank did all our real tricky machine work. He was a master machinist and a master motor builder

mechanic. A few years back he got cancer and passed away and it was terrible. I will always run the ‘In Memory of Clone Cycle’ sticker on my bike because Frank was a huge part of where I’m at and I wouldn’t be in the shoes I am in now if it wasn’t for him.”

In 1990 Chris and Frank were introduced to Mike Rice, aka “Fuel Bike Mike” of FBM Racing. Mike was a running a pro dragster. “From the moment that bike fired up we were hooked- ‘hot motorcycle’ had a whole new meaning!” Chris and Frank joined FBM Racing, with Chris eventually becoming Crew Chief.

He had never been down a drag strip on anything: index bike, street bike, Dad’s station wagon, nothing. When Mike asked if he’d like to make a pass, Chris Said, “You bet!” With his crewing experience, Chris knew exactly what it should look and sound like. “I whacked the throttle and

pinned it to the stripe. Man, life has never been the same!”


About two years later Mike stepped up to a 118-inch Pro Fueler, which Chris occasionally piloted for exhibition events. “The first time I launched that bike, it shook so hard I thought my eyeballs were going to come out. I backed out of the throttle and coasted down the track. Back in the pits I described the shake to Mike. He said, ‘That’s normal; it’ll shake out to about 400 feet.’ I thought, ‘It would have been nice to have clued me in on that.’ Second pass I nailed the throttle, drove through the shake, and clocked a 4.77 eighth-mile, which was a new track record.”

In 1998 Mike was involved in a serious accident on the Interstate that destroyed his truck and shattered his hip in 13 places. Only hours after the accident, from his hospital bed in the ICU, Mike called Chris and asked, “Do you want to go racing, and I’ll crew chief for you?” (Never mind the pain and rehab; let’s discuss the important stuff.)

“My first race was at Keystone Raceway in Pennsylvania,” Chris recalled. “On Saturday I made solo passes to both license and qualify. On Sunday I won my first round against Tony Matioli and second round against Greg Grove. I went into the finals against Bill Furr. I got Bill at the tree, but he got by me at the end of the track. When I got back into the pits, I took $50 out of my wallet, which was everything I had, and said, ‘I’m building my own bike!’”

“During the 1999 season we used my new 150-inch motor in Mike’s bike. For 2000 I had finished my Pro Fueler, and Mike had recovered from his accident and was ready to start racing again. We both ran under the FBM Racing banner. Mike’s first race was the Millennium Race at Moroso in Florida. Shirley Muldowney and Don Garlits made the very first pass at the stroke of midnight. Mike Rice was paired up with Mike Lehman, and they were the first nitro Harleys to run in the 21st century. That year Mike won the ADBA Pro Fuel National Championship.”

Watch Chris Streeter Light up his Bike for a Burnout in Downtown Sandusky!

Chris will be heading to the Ohio Bike Week Block Party in Downtown Sandusky on Friday night to light up his bike and do a burnout right in front of the stage. When I met with Chris recently he described his experience the first time he did a burnout there several years ago:

I’ll tell ya’ a funny story. Normally I don’t like to light my bike when I take my bike somewhere for display because It’s a whole production just to start the bike. I have to uproot my crew and take them along and everybody has to do their job. And it’s a risk that something could go wrong with the bike before the race.

I didn’t want to do this very much, but I did it anyway because my friend Rick with the AHDRA asked me to do it, and I also wanted to help my local sponsors and get their names out there. So I told Rick “Alright, I’ll do a burnout.”

We went downtown Sandusky by the Bay right where the ferry leaves from. I put my leathers on and we started wheeling the bike down to the middle of the street because everything was blocked off until we reached the main stage.

I told Rick “I am so nervous. I don’t know why, but I’m more nervous than I am at the finals in a race.” And he said, “Well I don’t want to make it worse but look behind you.” So I turned around and saw that from wall to wall, building to building, all the way across the street there was a solid wall of people just following me. If I would have kept walking into Lake Erie they would have followed me right in, just like the rats followed the Pied Piper!

We lit the bike up and it was making so much noise that it was ricocheting off the walls of the buildings. They had the strobe lights flashing and people were just mobbing all around me. It all worked fine and the crowd loved it! After it was over I told Rick “I’m never doing this again, don’t ever ask me to do this again.” He waited three years to ask me again, so I will be down there on Friday night for a repeat performance. Hopefully this time since I know what to expect I won’t be so nervous.”

Come out and meet Chris and Rick at Margaritaville in Sandusky on Wednesday June 6th. Chris will have his Pro Fuel Drag Bike on display and Rick will be bringing the AHDRA’s V-Rod Destroyer.


In 2003 Mike decided to step back from racing. “I bought his bus, race trailer, shop machining equipment, and his 150-inch motor as a backup-2003 was a great year. Actually,” Chris continued, “They’ve all been great years. But ‘03 was our first Pro Fuel National Championship. And I said ‘our’ because it was truly a team effort. My crew is a top-notch group.”

Chris likes to give credit to his crew because he feels they are so important and they never get the proper amount of credit. He will tell people that “The rider usually gets all the credit or all the blame, and usually the crew is as important or more important than the rider.”

Chris’s brother Matt Streeter is the computer tech and mixes the fuel. Chris and Matt make most of the tuning decisions. “We started using onboard data acquisition in 2002,” Chris said. “I am not tech savvy. Matt was instrumental in installing the equipment and analyzing the data.” In his daily life, Matt owns Streeter Technologies, which provides computer networking support to small businesses in New York City.

Rounding out his team is John Harris who is Chris’s right hand man in the shop and his head mechanic. John is the shop owner of Harris Tool and Die.

“In ‘03 we locked up the Pro Fuel Championship in Rockingham,” he continued. “Three days later, with just the Las Vegas race remaining, I fell off a ladder at work and broke my arm. I could have sat out the last race but we were really looking forward to the finals. Las Vegas is a great race-all the teams would be there-so I recruited Mike Rice to run my bike. I prefer watching the race from behind the handlebars, but just being part of the action is fun, too.”

Chris’s racing accomplishments are impressive: 2001 Pro Fuel National Runner-up; 2002 Pro Fuel Wrench of the Year; 2003 Pro Fuel National Champion; 2005 Pro Fuel National Champion; best ET 7.707; and top MPH 200.84.

Chris, what is a pass like? “Pro Fuel bikes are designed to be on the rear tire. Once a rider gets used to the dynamics of steering with body English, it becomes intuitive. When I first started, it all happened so fast, it was just a blast of noise and speed. Now, after making hundreds of passes, I’m able to be very analytical. One of the more difficult portions of the tack can be the shutdown. On two wheels, and not under power, the bike handles like a tank. On a short shutdown, like in Phoenix, it’s not uncommon to be repeatedly locking up the front and rear tires to get stopped. More than once I’ve gone into the sand.”

Have you ever crashed? “I’ve only come off the bike once. It happened early in my career. Right after the launch , the bike was spinning the tire and getting out of shape. I was rolling on and off the throttle. Each time I rolled on it got worse. Now I would just chop the throttle and abort the pass. Not so then. At about half-track I tried to power through it. Bad choice. It was like something jerked the bike out from under me. At 150 mph I was still in my riding position, but with no bike. Interestingly, several years earlier I had overheard a conversation between two racers describing what to do in a crash situation: ‘Don’t put your hands out; bring your arms tight into your body.’ Well, I grabbed my helmet and tucked in. At first I slid. I thought, ‘Okay, this won’t be so bad.’ Then I began to tumble. It was like getting into a knock-down drag-out fight with asphalt.”

“The second bit of advice I overheard was, ‘When you think you’ve stopped, don’t get up, because you’re probably still going 50 mph, and you’ll step into another violent fall.’ So, when I sensed that I had stopped, I just lay there and gazed up at the sky. I wiggled my toes and fingers and was relieved to see that everything still worked. Fortunately nothing was dislocated, torn, or broken. Also, the bike did not tumble. It went down on its right side and slid. The footpeg and handlebar were ground down, but the paint didn’t have a scratch. I replaced the front end and raced it two weeks later!”

What is one of your most memorable moments? “Our 2005 championship was the most hard fought. All season we were running neck and neck with Mike Lehman. We came into Las Vegas with only a six-point lead. It came down to who could go more rounds. Nothing was locked up, and Mike is one tough racer! Just prior to round two of eliminations we were running

the motor in the pits. I blipped the throttle, there was a loud bang, and the rear cylinder intake manifold blew into a hundred pieces: the cause, a rocker arm had broken. Everyone scrambled. With amazing precision, eighteen minutes later we set the bike down and rolled it into the lanes. That was teamwork! However, here had been no time to light the motor, and quite possibly something else had been damaged. Mike Lehman was paired against Chicago Joe, and we

were paired with John Breckenridge. The moment was intense. Unfortunately for Mike, his bike failed to start, and Joe made a solo pass. When our turn came the motor fired up and sounded great. We ran a 6.843 for the win, and the championship.”

Chris would like to thank sponsors, Chromatic, Gellner Engineering, HMF Engineering, Motor Sports Ulimited, Little Kings Lounge, Hollidaysburg NAPA, Shorai Battery, Electromotive Ignitions, Spectro Oil, Fire Core 50 Wires, and Kowalski Heat Treating.

In 2006 the team was renamed Lake Erie Racing and can be found on the web at www.lakeerieracing.com

Chris gives all the credit to the Lake Erie Racing Team for pulling everything together when they come out as a winner. He has said before, “If we win, it’s because of the team’s good work. I can only lose the race. The riders are all pretty good so once you turn the throttle on the race is won and lost by how hard your team works. The rider can do a little bit to win and lose races but most of the time the outcome of the race is a result of how you decide to set the bike up in the shop, and by the decisions you make in the pit.”

Chris is excited about the upcoming AHDRA Ohio Bike Week Nationals race at Summit Motorsports Park on June 9th and 10th. He had this to say about racing on your home track:

“It’s a mob scene. Every year I look forward to Norwalk, I invite all my friends and my mother always comes out to watch. I promote it and plan all this stuff including a big cookout on Saturday. And then when it comes, everybody is on me asking me to talk to them and wanting my attention. And I need to concentrate on what I’m doing. So at the end of the day I can’t wait to get back on the road somewhere where nobody knows my name. It’s stressful. It’s probably the hardest race we do. It’s harder than going to Oregon. But I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

For more race information visit www.ahdra.com or call 336-924-2095.


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presents:

to benefit :Children’s Medical Center of Dayton

Toll Free: 866-218-1452

www.buckminnsdandd.com

Carnival for KidsSaturday June 2nd, 2012 10am-4pmRides,

Games, Fun! Rides, Games, Fun!

We’re celebrating our 2nd Anniversary!Saturday June 16th, 2012 9am-4pm

Join us for this rockin’ great time, bands, food, & always fun!

Harley’s Heroes Saturday June 30th, 2012

9am-4pmMobile Vehicle will be here to help Veteran’s with information & get signed up for benefits!

SOUTHWEST OHIOThunder roads® magazine ohio 37

We always have a great selection of new and used MOTORCYCLES!

Get your tickets and shirt early before they run out! Remember the people who help keep us safe every day! After the ride join us all back here for great food and great music by Renegade!

June 24

COPS Ride Father’s DayIS June 17

Don’t forget about the special man

in your life!

14550 Lorain Ave, Cleveland, OH 44111M-F 9am – 7pm Sat 9am – 5pm Sun Closed

facebook.com/cleveland.harleydavidson

www.HarleyDavidsonCleveland.com





*Demo models subject to change. Must be 21 years of age for VMAX, R1 or R6, all others 18 years of age. In the state of Florida, must be 21 to demo. All riders must wear long pants, shirt with sleeves, closed shoes, approved DOT helmet and have valid motorcycle license.

DEMO RIDESFACTORY REPS ON LOCATION

GENUINE YAMAHA & STAR ACCESSORIES & APPAREL AVAILABLE ON SITE

WWW.STARMOTORCYCLES.COM

Sign up and show your valid motorcycle operator’s license to ride the following bikes: Super Tenere, Raider, Roadliner, Road Star, Stratoliner Deluxe, Stryker, V Star 950, V Star 1300 and VMAX. Demos also include the FJR1300, R1, R6, FZ8 and FZ6R.*

FREE

CLINTON COUNTY MOTORSPORTS6002 US Highway 68 North • Wilmington, OH

937-283-2220www.ClintonCountyMotorsports.com

July 13 - 14 • Rides Begin at 9am

20 12 tr iuMpH street tr iple r

factory feature

T he Triumph Street Triple R already has some impressive credentials to its name, but just like a lot of

things in this world, “impressive” isn’t impressive enough if you can help it become even more so.

That’s exactly what Triumph was thinking of with the new Street Triple R. As the hardcore version of the Street Triple, the Street Triple R comes with a host of detailed changes that improve this already outstanding motorcycle. From the fully adjustable, supersport-specification suspension to the premium graphics and color schemes, the 2012 Triumph Street Triple R is an awesome bike every which way you look at it.

Visually, the bike is the personification of mean. The fat alloy Magura handlebars, the stylish two-tone seat unit, the comprehensive instrumentation including a built-in lap timer, programmable gear change lights, clock, and gear indicator, and the large tachometer and digital speedo, all play their part in the whole set-up. The bike also has new style headlights, new mesh

headstock infill panels, brushed finishes on the exhaust canisters, and the Triumph branding on the clutch and alternator covers.

In terms of performance, the Street Triple R comes powered by a 675cc liquid-cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, in-line 3-cylinder engine that produces an impressive 105 horsepower, providing a lively yet composed ride that few bikes in its class can replicate. After all, there’s a reason why the Street Triple R was once the recipient of numerous accolades, including “Bike of the Year” awards from Bike magazine in the UK and Moto Navi of Japan.

The Street Triple R’s high equipment level includes lightweight five-spoke alloy wheels from the Daytona 675, fat alloy Magura handlebars, a stylish two-tone seat unit and comprehensive instrumentation including a built-in lap timer, programmable gear change lights, clock and gear indicator, as well as a large tachometer and digital speedo.

New style headlights, the same aggressive design used on the bigger Speed Triple, and twin high-level exhaust

canisters dominate the styling, with a number of detail improvements being brought in for 2012, including new mesh headstock infill panels, brushed finishes on the exhaust canisters and Triumph branding on the clutch and alternator covers.

Three color options are available on the 2012 Street Triple R: Crystal White, Diablo Red and Phantom Black (with gold wheels). All colors feature new graphics, including the Triumph sports script on the fuel tank.

Triumph’s range of genuine accessories is hugely popular with Street Triple R owners. Color-matched flyscreens, belly pans and seat cowls give the bike a more sporting and aggressive look, while Arrow Special Parts have developed both a three-into-one “low boy” exhaust system and lightweight slip-on exhausts for improved performance and a weight reduction. Other key accessories include CNC-machined clutch and brake levers and a “plug and play” quickshifter that can be fitted to the Street Triple R in minutes.

– This review is courtesy of TopSpeed.com


model: Triumph street Triple r

year: 2012

category: naked Bike

price as new: $9599 (msrp)

displacement: 675.00 ccm (41.19 cubic inches)

engine Type: in-line three, four-stroke

power: 106.00 hp (77.4 kw) @ 9200 rpm

Torque: 68.00 nm @ 9200 rpm

compression: 12.7:1

Bore x stroke: 74.0 x 74.0 mm (2.9x2.9 inches)

Valves per cylinder: 4

fuel system: injection. multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with sai

fuel control: dohc

ignition: digital-inductive type via engine management system.

cooling sysem: liquid

gearbox: 6 speed

Transmission Type: chain

clutch: wet. multi-plate

driveline: o ring chain

fuel consumption: 7.13 litres / 100 km (14.0 km/l or 32.99mpg)

exhaust system: stainless steel 3 into 1 into 2 exhaust system with twin high level polished stainless steel silencers.

frame Type: aluminum beam twin-spar

rake (fork angle): 23.9

front suspension: kayaba 41mm upside down forks. with adjustable preload. rebound and compression damping. 130mm travel

rear suspension: kayaba monoshock with piggy back reservoir. adjustable for preload. rebound and compression damping. 130mm rear wheel travel

front Tire: 120/70-zr17

rear Tire: 180/55-zr17

front Brakes: double disc. nissin 4-piston radial calipers

rear Brakes: single disc. nissin single piston caliper

weight: 189.0 kg (416.7 pounds)

seat height: 805 mm (31.7”)

overall height: 1,110mm (43.7”)

overall length: 2,030mm (79.9”)

overall width: 755mm (29.7”)

wheelbase: 1,410mm (55.5”)

fuel capacity: 17.4 litres (4.6 gallons)


EVE

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EVE

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Father’s Day Tribute to my

#1 Dad WILL ROEDER

When giving the family remembrance at my dad’s funeral, I said “if you look up the word fun in the dictionary, the definition would be Will Roeder.” Nearly every friend and family member I talked to that day just kept repeating, “we just had so much fun.” My dad just had that wired in him, to make any occasion fun and full of laughter. This is what made him magnetic, and so many people were drawn to him. I feel this same way about my dad. He taught me how to have fun in life, and enjoy it to the fullest. From the time I was three years old, he had me on adventures. I would ride with him and my mom on his 1978 Sportster, my mom on the back and me on the gas tank! At four years old they took me on my first snow skiing experience, where I actually broke my leg. This didn’t turn out too bad in the end because I got my first two wheels from my dad, a pink power wheels motorcycle, so I could ride around the house! There are just hundreds of fun stories growing up with my dad, and of course many of them were on motorcycles. Riding behind my dad for his last ride at his funeral, my thoughts drifted to our first ride together, it was actually my first ride out on the road on my own Harley. We left my parents house, I was on my new 1200C, and boy was it stressful! Every time we would get to a stop sign or a red light, he would yell at me for going too slow, he said “are you trying to get run over?”! This was not the only time this happened, my dad and I took an H-D training class out in Las Vegas in 2008. The class was at the speedway, and we got to ride all the H-D models and then jump on other brands and ride them to compare the differences. We were in separate groups, and when we met up for lunch I was telling him how I kept getting in trouble for going too slow and he tells me he kept getting in trouble for going to fast! We laughed and laughed about that, who would’ve thought, a Roeder who likes too go slow! He loved to joke around, play pranks, and give bunny ears! I had to lay the law down on my wedding day. I told my dad we can’t be re-taking pictures all day, so you have a 10 bunny ear limit! There are countless stories, from golf outings, to sharpie wars, playing air guitar, fashion shows, H-D 100th anniversary trip, family vacations, hanging out at put-in-bay, the Lima races, getting stuck in his airplane, charcoaling my husband Scott’s first turkey in the deep fryer, finding corn in your poop, Harley dealer shows, and the many rides and events we had at the dealership, it just goes on and on! My top three favorite stories are the gun powder in the ash tray, the ultimate test ride, and the time he tried to shoot a goose at 5am and ended up lost

It was just a short year ago that I lost not only my dad, but my mentor, and one of my best friends. Many of you knew my dad as a #1 Harley dealer, a #1 racer, # 1 at burnouts & riding wheelies, but my #1 dad was so much more!

Father’s Day Tribute to my

#1 Dad WILL ROEDER

By Jessica Benfer


in the woods in his underwear! If you ever heard him tell any of these stories, you know what I am talking about. I would be in tears every time he would tell them!

One of the things I miss most about not having my dad is not having my mentor. The 14 years I worked for him and my mom in our family business, I learned a great deal from my dad. I do appreciate the day-to-day things I learned from him about operating the dealership, but he

taught me much more. My dad saw my potential before I even knew it was there. He would challenge me to do things I never thought I was capable of doing. I became more than I ever dreamed of because he believed in me, he pushed me, and he walked with me every step encouraging me. I remember the day he told me, “we need a sales manager, and I want you to do it”. I was like “are you kidding me? You want me to manage this team of experienced

salesmen, who have so much more knowledge than me?” I was scared to death, but he told me he knew I could do it, and if I ever wanted to run the dealership someday I had to learn it and because of him, I did! It was one of the most awesome (and difficult), and fun experiences of my life! I miss having him in my life everyday, to push me, encourage me, and especially to seek his advice. My mom and I talk about this all the time: he was so great at making decisions, and we both miss his input dearly. Not a day goes by

that I don’t want to call my dad about something.

As a daughter I could not have asked for a better dad. Our relationship was not perfect, by any means, we surely had our days we

didn’t see eye to eye and my poor mom was always stuck in the middle. But the things that count the most, my dad gave to me; unconditional love, encouragement, a zest for life, understating, freedom to become my own person, inclusion in his life every day, and most of all courage. My dad has always been a strong person. I remember when he was having trouble with his hip, he just toughed it

When Father’s Day comes around and the sun is shining it’s hard not to think about all the great times I had riding with my dad when I was young. Dad truly put a love of bikes in my heart that never left. Over the year’s I’ve learned that riding is a release. It’s a way to leave all your stress of the day and life behind and feel the wind in your hair. Now that I see this, it makes it even more meaningful that my dad was willing to share those moments with me ever so often when he could have very well went out on his own and left me behind. My dad (The Chief!) had a passion for his bike that I hadn’t seen before. It could very well be questioned whether he kept his bike cleaner than himself! (Just Kidding Dad). When I graduated high school, my parents held a great graduation party for me - but one of the best graduation presents I got was a ride on Dad’s Harley… right after the ceremony! Looking back now and remembering how long the ceremony was, good thing we did! We needed it!

-Baby Bear


out until he could barely walk, and then finally got it replaced. Nothing would ever keep him down; he would just keep pushing through. I had always known my dad was tough, however he proved just how tough he was in the last two years of his life. My dad was diagnosed with ALS “Lou Gehrig’s” Disease in March of 2009. If you are not familiar with this disease, it is a disease that attacks the muscles in your body, and eventually they begin to shut down, one by one, until finally it reaches your lungs and you can no longer breathe. It is always fatal and typically once diagnosed life expectancy is only 3-5 years. When I first found out I began to read about this disease, and the terrible things those with it have to live through, my mind could not even process my dad having to go through this. Looking back, I can learn so much from my dad living through that tough end of his life. This disease did not get my dad down. My dad chose to still live his life to the fullest every day, regardless of his circumstances. My dad chose to still work every day, for his very dear friends Cooner and Sherry, as well as helping his brother George II get his business established, and also co-founded this magazine TRO with my mom. I remember being in the hospital the day after we had our 3rd child, Addi and in walks in my dad! He was exhausted when he came in because he had just walked really far to make it to our room to come see his new granddaughter! I told him he was crazy, and he should have waited until we were home, or that he should have had someone come with him, but he just said, “I’m okay; just give me a minute I will be fine, I wanted to be here.” A few months after that, in the fall of 2010, we moved into our new house. My dad came over to see it, and he was having trouble walking at this point. My boys were so excited for Grandpa to see their rooms, which were up a pretty large flight of stairs. I kept telling Logan and Evan that grandpa shouldn’t go up that many stairs, but my dad just said, “Julie come over here and help me.” He went up those stairs to see the kid’s rooms, it didn’t matter how hard it was for him, he just pushed on through. I watched my dad face harder and harder circumstances as his disease progressed, and he would never even complain. I would hear him say, “I hate this disease”, but other than that he would just face every day with courage and strength, and yes…laughter!

My dad’s fun and encouragement spread through my entire family. When I first met my husband Scott, many of our first dates were hanging out with my parents. We went to Put-In-Bay, NASCAR races, Florida, and it only took him a couple months to buy a Harley and start riding with my family! One of the things that my dad encouraged Scott to do was become a private pilot. Scott received his first lessons from my dad as a wedding gift, and Scott loved it! He did become a pilot and actually now

My dad had a bike when my mom was pregnant with me and he had to sell it because she wouldn’t stay off of it. I have always ridden as a passenger till 2 yrs ago. I decided I wanted to ride my own because I got tired of waiting for my husband or dad to get off work so I could go for a ride. So I went to the classes and got my endorsements. I didn’t have a bike yet but my dad had 2. One is a 94 custom roadking that my husband actually built & painted ( so its very special to my dad & my hubby ) then he has a 2008 ultra classic. So the day i passed the test and got my card that said i could go get the “ M “ on my license my dad wants me to go for a ride. I said heck yeah lets go. Well he puts me on his custom roadking and it hit me all of a sudden “ this is my dads special bike” so i was a nervous wreck! Well we make it out of the driveway and down to the stop sign and i was so nervous that of all things i forgot to put my feet down and the bike started going down while i was at a complete stop. The adrenaline kicked in and i tried to stop it but i couldn’t. It was to heavy and too far gone so i yelled “ Awwwww *#%@” and my dad happened to hear me and stopped and came back to help me get his bike back up. We still kept riding because he wouldn’t let me go put the bike up. Ha ha. He was so excited that his daughter rode a motorcycle he didn’t care that I laid it down within 5 minutes of being on it! !! Thanks for reading :) – Kasey ‘Khaos’ McManus


owns and flies my dad’s first plane, a 1946 Piper Cub. As a grandpa, he was so much fun for my boys. He had them riding dirt bikes of course at the age of four, and they loved fishing with grandpa. I sure wish our little Addi could have known Grandpa Will, but we will make sure to tell her all the funny stories, and do our best to instill the same things in her that my dad did in us.

As I write this today, my best friend is going through something very similar as she lost her mom this week. When I went to see her she just kept asking me what to do, and how do you get through this? It’s a very hard question that I could not answer to her. When I think back to a year ago the only thing that helps make it hurt less is thinking of all the blessings, knowing that God was present, and trusting his plan and his timing. One of the hardest things I had to face about that day my dad passed was that he was all alone at Hospice. My mom had emergency surgery just a few short weeks before this, and was with him until Midnight. She couldn’t fall asleep, so he told her to go back to their condo which was just down the street and get some rest. They told each other I love you, and she left. The nurse checked on him at 2 a.m., he was awake, and told her he was doing fine. He passed away early that morning. When I found out that morning, I had a bunch of missed calls from hospice, as I had been sleeping and they were trying to call. I left right away to go see my dad and I was crying hysterically in my car. I felt so guilty that I was not by his side, and then my phone rings. It was my aunt Jean, who I had already talked that morning. She asked me if I was okay and I said “no, I should have been with him, they were calling me and I should have been there.” She told me “no you obviously should not have been, because it happened the way it was supposed to be. It is not easy to watch somebody pass away, and that was not in the plan for you to be there.” When I got to hospice after seeing my dad, I was sitting in the hall with my mom and my uncle George comes out. My mom and I both were still just feeling terrible that we were not with him, and George says, “I think this is the way Will wanted it to happen”. When I think about those two things, I believe my Aunt and Uncle were right. I think his prayers were answered that day. Knowing my dad he would not have wanted any of his there, because he loved us too much to have us see that. The entire week preparing for his funeral, I just kept wishing I could talk to him one last time, just one more conversation, and the day of his funeral my prayers were answered; my dad had left each us all a letter. I couldn’t wait to get home and read it, it was his most important thoughts he wanted to leave with me, and I will cherish them forever!

To everyone reading this, I hope you can add some more fun to your everyday. Always remember to say I love you every chance you get, spend time with those you love, encourage each other, and be thankful for all of your blessings because life is so short, and it can change in an instant. To my dear friend Dawn, I love you so much, and it breaks my heart that you have to go through this. I am here for you always my friend. To my Dad, I thank you today for teaching me how to have fun, showing me how to be courageous, giving me confidence by believing in me, and growing my faith in God just by watching you believe. Happy Father’s Day, I love you and miss you dearly! – Jess

A year ago my father in law loaned me the money to buy my first Harley. The best gift I have ever gotten and from the most generous man I know. I will always remember and be grateful for this. He gave me his amazing daughter and a Harley. That’s a great man. Love my in laws.

– Kyle G, Cleveland

I remember as a kid my father riding here and there when he met up with some of his friends and took a ride on their bikes. But the best one I will always remember is the day he wanted to take a ride with me.

- BEAR U.S. Army Vet, PGR Member FMR Member, ABATE Member

When my parents went through their divorce it devastated me. I was young at the time, but I remember feeling so disconnected from everyone. My parents were fighting all the time and I seemed to be always stuck in the middle. My Dad kept trying to talk to me, and that only seemed to make it worse. I was young at the time and terrified of my Dad’s Harley, but I was drawn to it. It was years ago and I was so small – but I remember that first time I came up and asked my Dad if he would take me riding. I had always cried around the bikes (like I said – I was YOUNG). We went riding and I just held onto him. I’ll never forget how that felt. I felt so connected as we rode down the rode. I have no idea where we went that day, but I’ll never forget how great I felt after going on that ride.

I love my Dad and hope he always knows that – no matter how crazy I get.

- Nicole S

– Bear and Dad


By Julie roeder

Back in the Spring of last year, I was at a coffee shop with a couple of my girl riding partners when I was approached by Andy Cleas of Sandusky. He wanted to share with me an old photograph that he always carried with him.

It was of his Grandfather, Vincent Fetters, sitting on a motorcycle. His family did not know that it existed until after he had passed away. Andy’s Mother was cleaning out his Grandpa’s house and came across the photo, one of two that she found in a shoebox. It was obvious that he treasured this memento of his ancestor.

Andy had previously shown the picture to my husband Will to see if he could identify what type of motorcycle it was. Will knew that it was an Indian but was unsure of the year. Andy did some research, and flipped through the pages of a book on Indians narrowing down the era. The closest he could figure was that it was around a 1928 model, and stated that he sure wished he had that bike today.

In the picture, his Grandpa is sitting on the bike next to a blimp. He had been a mechanic on a Battleship in the Navy. He was living in Fort Wayne, Indiana so it is likely that the photo was taken at an airstrip in that area.

Andy said that his Gramp had a buddy named Lenny that would ride around with him, and laughed that bar hopping on bikes didn’t just start a few years ago. They were doing it back then, only twenty some years after motorcycles were invented. Apparently his Grandma didn’t even want him to have the bike and wouldn’t allow him to take their children for rides. After they started having their kids, she didn’t think he needed that motorcycle anymore so he sold it. A familiar story that I have heard many times over the years. Andy was around 13 when his Grandpa passed away. His Grandparents had a trailer over at Sonny’s beach and he has fond memories of them taking him and his brothers fishing in their old Lyman boat.

Andy recalled that his first experience of riding on the street was with his Father, Ron Cleas, on a trip down to Mohican. He was pretty young, maybe 10 or 12, but wasn’t afraid as there had always been go-carts, 3-wheelers, or dirt bikes on hand to ride around on the family farm.

Just as with his Grandparents, Andy’s Mom Mary Claes, wasn’t initially too excited for his Dad to ride. Without telling her prior to purchasing it, he came home one day with a Honda 350 Enduro. The seat was flat across from the tank all the way to the back, and resembled a surfboard.

That was the bike that they took down to the Mohican area,

near Mansfield, Ohio, and rode all around down there. He remembered sitting on the back and feeling his Dad’s body jerk because a bird had hit him in the chest. He reached around and handed it to Andy who was hoping it would survive. It didn’t, so he asked his Dad what the heck he should do with it. He ended up just tossing it in the ditch without even stopping.

Around the age of 16 Andy would go over to his friend

Riding Through the Generations

Riding Through the Generations


Grandpa from him, they had just returned from “a perfect ride” back from Quaker Steak and Lube in Vermilion.

Bikes have always been around in Andy’s family. His brother rode Triumphs owning both a 250 and 650. With his brother on his Triumph and Andy on the back of his Dad’s 350, they would ride round like a little gang. Back in the seventies his brother Mark would paint murals on hippie vans and motorcycle tanks. e HheHe recalled one tank paint job that was kind of strange. It was a cherry or apple tree, with white branches and red fruit on it.

When it was time for Andy to get out on his own motorcycle he obtained his permit. At the time his brother Bob had a 360 Suzuki 3-cylinder two-stroke, which smoked all over the place. You are not supposed to ride a passenger until you are fully licensed, but on a hot summer day Bob got on the back of his bike and let his younger brother sit in front and ride it. He didn’t have a shirt and just when they were getting up to speed about 50 mph or so, he got stung by a bee on the side of his arm and it left a stinger in him. Andy has always appreciated his brother taking the time to make sure his skills were good enough to pass the test for his endorsement.

Before long Andy bought his first motorcycle, a twin cylinder Yamaha Midnight Special so he could hit the highway with his Dad. His second bike was a 1983 Honda Magna 45 which he still has tucked away in the garage. The tags on it are from 1995 which is the last time I rode it. Andy knows that it will sit there until he has enough time and the enthusiasm to stick the money into getting it running again.

Eventually Andy’s parents were divorced and it wasn’t long after that that his Mother bought her own bike. Her first bike was a little Suzuki 250 which she rode until she got her skills down. She has owned several motorcycles since including a big Honda Aspencade and her toes barely touched the ground on it. She rode a 1984 Honda Magna for quite some time until it got too heavy for her. She is now 78 years old, and is still riding on a Honda Helix.

Andy reminisced about when he accompanied his Mother to buy the Helix at a dealership in Mansfield. After the paperwork was signed the keys were handed to him so he could ride it home for her. It was toward the end of the riding season and it was rather cold out. He donned his leather jacket, and a full face helmet that he still had from when he bought his first bike.

His Mother asked him what he was doing with that helmet on because she knew he never wore a helmet when he rode. He responded “Mom, this is a Honda Helix. It’s bright red. Can you imagine what my friends would say if they saw me riding this non-shifting Honda Helix?” So he put that full face helmet on and rode as fast as he could down to Route 2 and all the way back to Bay View.

Today Andy and his Mom are the only ones in the family that still have bikes. They ride together to visit his brother in Findlay. Sometimes she will ride her Honda Helix and other times she will ride on the back with him.

Andy currently rides a 2006 Street Glide and last year on Memorial Day he rode it over to the cemetery in Crestline, Ohio to visit his Grandpa Fetter’s grave.

From Father to Daughter to Grandson, and from Father to his Sons, there was obviously a gene or two passed down through the family lines that instilled in Andy his passion to ride.

Mark Michael’s house in the evening just before sunset and get on the back of his Yamaha 125 enduro. The seat was just big enough for them both to get on it. They would cruise around at night when nobody could see them. The idea of being able to ride at that age was pretty cool, even though he was the “bitch on the back.”

Like his Grandpa did before him, Andy gets together every Thursday night with his riding buddy Mark. When I met up with him at Margaritaville in Sandusky to get the pictures of his


This month we wanted to feature a “Biker Bar” that isn’t so much a Biker Bar as it is a celebration of the “Open Road”. Roadhouse 66 in Worthington (just North of Columbus) is a unique concept created by David Wickline as a tribute to the “Mother Road” – Route 66.

u.s. route 66 (us 66 or route 66), also known as the will rogers highway and often referred to as the main street of america or the mother road, was a highway within the U.S. Highway System. One of the original U.S. Highways, Route 66 was established on November 11, 1926—with road signs erected the following year. The highway, which became one of the most famous roads in America, originally ran from Chicago, Illinois, through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California, before ending at Los Angeles, covering a total of 2,448 miles (3,940 km). It was recognized in popular culture by both a hit song and the Route 66 television show in the 1960s.

Route 66 served as a major path for those who migrated west, especially during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, and it supported the economies of the communities through which the road passed. People doing business along the route became prosperous due to the growing popularity of the highway, and those same people later fought to keep the highway alive in the face of the growing threat of being bypassed by the new Interstate Highway System. It was officially removed from the United States Highway System on June 27, 1985 after it had been decided the route was

no longer relevant and had been replaced by the Interstate Highway System. Portions of the road that passed through Illinois, Missouri, New Mexico, and Arizona have been designated a National Scenic Byway of the name “historic route 66”.David Wickline has written several books on Route 66 and

is considered a unquestionable authority on historic Route 66. It’s been a passion of his to document the legendary ribbon of asphalt and crumbling Portland cement for current 66 travelers and future generations. His restaurant, Roadhouse 66, is a veritable Museum of the Mother Road. The walls are platered with dozens of Route 66 shields and other road signs along with thousands of photos. While there are plenty of old car and truck posters and memorabilia, there is a clear emphasis on the motorcycles – and in particular David’s passion for Harley-Davidsons.

Roadhouse 66 has a unique menu that features items inspired by stops along 66 – including plenty of comfort foods as well as a mix of heart healthy items, specialty burgers, and great pizza. It’s a casual stop that caters to a wide range of riders – from dedicated Harley riders to the most hard core European riders. Their live entertainment features Rock bands on Fridays and Columbus’s best Blues Bands every Saturday!

Roadhouse 66 has a great patio that comes into play on their Wednesday and Thursday Bike Nights. It’s a great place to relax with friends and enjoy reasonably priced food and drinks.


Thunder Roads caught up with David Wickline of Roadhouse 66 Bar & Grille in Worthington, Ohio to ask him about the Route 66 Riding Tour! This is David’s fourth time guiding the motorcycle tour and we wanted to get a little more information about it.

Tro: Tell me about the event! When is it held and how many typically participate?

david: The ride this year is July 28-August 8. Typically we have 15-20 riders but it can be larger or smaller than that. Overall it is very organized. I stay with my group the entire time. We ride together and eat together. Unlike other tours where they

leave you to fend for yourself in a new place with nothing but a map, I’m there for my group every step of the way.

Tro: What else makes this ride different from others?

david: Well it’s 2800 miles. We start in Chicago and end in Los Angeles. Throughout the year, I seem to have a habit of getting close with and keeping in touch with the people I do the ride with. We become good friends and they come back year after year. Even the people we meet on the tour and the stops we make become reoccurring themes. People welcome us back each year and it is nice


BIK

E N

IGH

TS

to see all my old friends and families along the route. That’s what I’m most excited about this year. It is definitely a serious ride though. I even suggest people do butt conditioning before hand (laughs). If you’re not careful you could have some very sore hands and wrists. We ride long distances and try to make the most of our time.

Tro: How much does it cost and how do we sign up? How does everything work when it’s over?

david: It’s $2500 for you with your bike (one participant, double occupancy) and $2000 for a passenger. This includes 12 nights accommodations, a welcome dinner & drinks in Chicago, steak dinner & drinks in Amarillo, tolls, parking fees, tour book & maps, admission to museums, a route 66 pin, farewell dinner in Los Angeles, and the support vehicle that follows behind us. Pretty much everything is included for you except food, gas, and

any souvenirs you may want. Everyone rides the whole thing. We don’t do it where you jump in at certain spots. We are all together the whole ride. I have traveled the route 14 times myself and written two books about it so I’m very familiar with it. Some of the museums on our route even sell my books. The whole ride is pre-planned and you can register online. At the finish, some people ship their bike back, meet up with loved ones, or head over to Sturgis. It’s all up to you.

If you are interested in doing the tour this year there is still some time! You can find more information and contact information online at roadhouse66.com. If you can’t make it out this year, keep it in mind for next year. And don’t forget to stop on down to Roadhouse 66 Bar & Grille in the meantime! Thunder Roads will be looking forward to all the pictures from this year’s ride and spending some great summer nights out at Roadhouse 66!

-Baby Bear


The 2012 Buckeye Thunder run (BTR) is underway and it’s taking Ohio by storm! The BTR is a state-wide, summer-long riding contest hitting the coolest riding destinations and events across Ohio, presented by Ohio’s #1 Biker Mag - Thunder Roads Ohio with the support of Motoreagles.com and Rider Insurance. It is a riding contest like no-other and features great prizes and cash pay-outs every month!

Each month, Thunder Roads will announce a list of Thunder Run Stops in the magazine. These stops are selected based upon the recommendations of our readers and confirmed by our editors. Riders can then hit these locations and present their Rider Cards in order to earn points for each stop. Additional points are given for purchases made and distance ridden to the stop. Some stops and local sponsors will be hosting specific give-aways for their stops. These added prizes will just build on the excitement, by allowing participants to win all summer long!

The BTR is all about THE RIDE. We are NOT simply adding anyone willing to write a check. We will be considering stops recommended by our readers and editors, and we will only select those that offer a legitimate interest to riders – making them worth the ride to visit. We are not hosting the run as simply a means of supporting the magazine, but as a fun way to promote partners and cool destinations all across the state.

Every stop has been recommended by riders and readers of Thunder Roads. We have then checked them out and determined that they are a biker friendly stop that we would recommend to you! Every stop should be friendly and offer a fun experience.

Throughout the summer we will keep adding new stops in order to keep things exciting for you – the readers and riders on the run. We’re bikers and it’s all about the ride. We want to help create fun experiences for you and share some cool spots in our state. And we want to discover new spots as well, which is why we are encouraging everyone to nominate their favorite riding destinations. Again this is

We will be adding neW stops

and changing up the list

eVery MontH!

not simply a sales tool for us. We have designed this run to entertain and challenge our readers – as well as promote our partners.

Thunder Roads will also be registering riders for Ride Cards at specific events throughout the year as we distribute magazines. You will see us at Rallies, Bike Nights, and other designated events throughout the summer. Many of these events will have special booths for registration and offer special incentives both for those registering for the cards and those checking in with their previously issued cards.

We are also working with charities and various non-profit events to include them in the Run schedule as well. This will be an easy means of encouraging participation and attracting riders from outside the local communities. In many cases, we will have specific prize drawings for those at these events

Based upon the number of stops, distance ridden, and certain bonuses offered at the locations – riders will earn points every month. Thunder Roads will track these points and award prizes throughout the riding season based upon the run rankings and points being added during specific periods of time. For instance, we will be awarding prize packages to the point leaders amongst both the men and women riders. We will recognize the riders with both the highest cumulative points – and the most earned during the specific month.

ohio ride cards

The Ride Cards, presented by Motoreagles.com, will allow participants to easily and safely check in at all stops. Some Thunder Roads Sponsors will also be offering discounts to readers that present the cards. You will find some of these discounts listed in the magazine, but we would encourage you to ask the stop if they have any special promotions for Ride Card holders.

Thunder Roads will also be selecting rider checks-in’s randomly each month from across the state for special incentives. During the month of May, Thunder Roads has teamed with Ohio Bike Week to offer several VIP Bike Week packages that include hotels and meet n’ greets with national performers!

It all may sound confusing but it really boils down to a simple process:

1. get your ohio ride card.

You can your card by going to a Registration Stop (listed here in the magazine), going to a Thunder Run Event (also listed here in the magazine), or by signing up online. In person registrations are ALWAYS free, however there is a $10 registration fee to sign up on-line. The proceeds from this help support charitable motorcycle events across Ohio.

PLEASE NOTE: Some events and Registration Stops may run out of Cards due to demand. Please call ahead to avoid problems whenever possible. Thanks!

2. get the list of stops each month from your Thunder roads magazine, the website (Thunderroadsohio.com), or facebook (www.facebook.com/thunderroadsohio )

3. get out and ride! hit the stops and show them your card.

for the month of may, you will receive:

10 points for each stop you sign-in at

you are also eligiBle for The following Bonuses in June:

+10 points if you spend at least $10 at the location.

+20 points if you spend more then $100 at the location. continueD....


Plus we will DOUBLE your points for locations more then 100 miles from your home, or give you FOUR TIMES your points for locations more then 200 miles from your home!

Just sign-in after completing your transactions and points are based upon total spent per card member.

4. We will keep track of the sign-in’s and points – and award prizes! All prize winners will be contacted by email.

It’s really that simple!

whaT do you do aT a sTop?

When you arrive at a BTR stop, go ahead and simply enjoy yourself. When you are ready to leave, simply identify yourself at checkout and the staff person should get a clip board for you to sign in on. In some cases you may be directed to a receptionist or host. If you have made a purchase bring your receipt along, so that they can check that off for you.

Please be understanding if the staff is busy or patient if you have someone new or unfamiliar with the Run. This is a first year promotion, so we are going through some growing pains. If you have issues or concerns, please just let us know. You can email us at [email protected]

Likewise – if you have a great time, please let us know as well! You can send along pictures too, if you like!

Have a motorcycle oriented business in ohio?

As with the magazine itself, the Buckeye Thunder Run is

presented through the support of our sponsors and partners all

across the state. We have secured several key sponsorships

already, but opportunities remain. If your business would like to

get involved, this is a great way to promote yourself all across

the state in a positive manner.

Have a stop in mind for the run?

If you have a venue or event that you would like to get involved

in the run, please don’t hesitate to let us know about it. If it’s

your place, we will get in touch shortly with more information on

the run and what’s involved. If you are recommending a spot

for someone else – we will reach out to them and let them know

they have been nominated. If you can suggest a contact person,

that can help expedite the process. You can send information to

[email protected]

1 306 Lounge Mentor Ride Stop 7377 Lakeshore Blvd, Mentor, OH 44060 (440) 257-3557 A biker friendly stop that opens up at 6am, 365 days a year!

2 Bailey Road Tavern Cuyahoga Falls Ride Stop 2920 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221

(330) 920-8350 Biker Friendly Neighborhood Pub with Great Food

3 Bears Ravenna Ride Stop 408 West Main St, Ravenna, OH 44266 (330) 297-7755

Vintage Harley Museum and one of the coolest, most knowledgable proprietors around make this a must stop for any rider.

4 Blutos Norwalk Ride Stop 33 E. Seminary St., Norwalk, OH 44857 (419) 668-8862

A great local biker bar with friendly crowd! Just east of Sandusky and Ohio Bike Week.

5 Buckminn’s D&D Harley-Davidson Xenia Registration Stop 1213 Cincinnati Ave, Xenia, OH 45385

(866) 218-1452 An active Harley-Davidson® Dealership with plenty of great events!

6 Carlton Harley-Davidson Mantua Registration Stop

and Ride Stop11771 State Route 44, Mantua, OH 44255 (330) 274-3141

A family owned Harley-Davidson ® Dealership that you can ride 10-20 minutes in any direction from - without hitting a light!

7 Cheshire Choppers Columbus Ride Stop 2102 Elm Rd, Cortland, OH 44410 (740) 362-0695 Great shop with a fun, unique approach to bikes.

8 Competition Accessories Springfield Registration Stop

and Ride Stop343 W. Leffel, Springfield, OH 45506 (937) 323-0513

Incredible Motorcycle Superstore with great selection of bikes, parts, and accessories.

9 Crazy Fox Bucyrus Ride Stop 112 W. Mansfield St., Bucyrus, OH 44820 (419) 562-1256

A great old school biker bar with live music, a great patio, and just an authentic feel. Not to be missed!

10 Frog Town Ironton Ride Stop 2515 South 3rd Street Ironton, OH 45638 (740)532-8337

A Motorcycle Rally In-Itself, Frog Town is worthy of a ride from anywhere in the state.

11 Hamilton’s Pub Gahanna Ride Stop 4866 Thompson Road Columbus, Ohio 43230 (614) 775-0007 An “Upscale Neighborhood Bar” with a great Tuesday Night Bike Night

12 Harley-Davidson Sales & Service Napoleon Registration Stop 862 County Rd R3,

Napoleon, OH 43545 (419) 592-7123Northwest Ohio Harley-Davidson ® Dealership celebrating it’s 50th Anniversary this year!

13 Harley-Davidson Sales Company Cleveland Registration Stop

and Ride Stop

14550 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111 (216) 252-3111

Family owned Harley-Davidson dealership with a long history of ac-tive involvement in the motorcycle community.

14 Hickory Lake Inn Newbury Ride Stop 14592 Stone Road, Newbury, OH 44065 (440) 564-9735

The Hick is a local legend - with acres of space to relax and even camp along the lake.

15 Hide Away Country Inn Bucyrus Ride Stop

1601 State Route 4, Bucyrus, OH 44820 (419)562-3013

A quaint Country Inn hosts a Thursday Bike Night featuring an incredible “biker menu” prepared by their European Trained Chef. A great overnight escape for bikers touring central Ohio!

16 Hocking Hills Motorcycle Ranch Chillicothe Registration Stop and

Ride Stop26860 US Hwy 33, Rockbridge, OH (740) 385-4467 A cool retail shop in the midst of some of Ohio’s best roads to ride.

17 IRON PONY Columbus Registration Stop and Ride Stop

5436 Westerville Road, Westerville, OH 43081 (614) 901-PONY

The Motorcycle SUPERSTORE that you just have to see. Possibly the largest motorcycle store in the world? And it’s right here in Ohio.

18 Jackass Flats Dayton Ride Stop 6024 Rip Rap Road, Dayton, OH 45424 (937) 236-4329

Enjoy an escape to the Outback and take in one of the best bike nights in the state, worth a ride from the far corners of the Buckeye State!

THUNDER ROADS RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY, CHANGE, END, AND CANCEL THIS PROMOTION – DUE TO THE CONSTRAINTS OF OPERATING WITHIN THE REAL WORLD.

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1 306 Lounge Mentor Ride Stop 7377 Lakeshore Blvd, Mentor, OH 44060 (440) 257-3557 A biker friendly stop that opens up at 6am, 365 days a year!

2 Bailey Road Tavern Cuyahoga Falls Ride Stop 2920 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221

(330) 920-8350 Biker Friendly Neighborhood Pub with Great Food

3 Bears Ravenna Ride Stop 408 West Main St, Ravenna, OH 44266 (330) 297-7755

Vintage Harley Museum and one of the coolest, most knowledgable proprietors around make this a must stop for any rider.

4 Blutos Norwalk Ride Stop 33 E. Seminary St., Norwalk, OH 44857 (419) 668-8862

A great local biker bar with friendly crowd! Just east of Sandusky and Ohio Bike Week.

5 Buckminn’s D&D Harley-Davidson Xenia Registration Stop 1213 Cincinnati Ave, Xenia, OH 45385

(866) 218-1452 An active Harley-Davidson® Dealership with plenty of great events!

6 Carlton Harley-Davidson Mantua Registration Stop

and Ride Stop11771 State Route 44, Mantua, OH 44255 (330) 274-3141

A family owned Harley-Davidson ® Dealership that you can ride 10-20 minutes in any direction from - without hitting a light!

7 Cheshire Choppers Columbus Ride Stop 2102 Elm Rd, Cortland, OH 44410 (740) 362-0695 Great shop with a fun, unique approach to bikes.

8 Competition Accessories Springfield Registration Stop

and Ride Stop343 W. Leffel, Springfield, OH 45506 (937) 323-0513

Incredible Motorcycle Superstore with great selection of bikes, parts, and accessories.

9 Crazy Fox Bucyrus Ride Stop 112 W. Mansfield St., Bucyrus, OH 44820 (419) 562-1256

A great old school biker bar with live music, a great patio, and just an authentic feel. Not to be missed!

10 Frog Town Ironton Ride Stop 2515 South 3rd Street Ironton, OH 45638 (740)532-8337

A Motorcycle Rally In-Itself, Frog Town is worthy of a ride from anywhere in the state.

11 Hamilton’s Pub Gahanna Ride Stop 4866 Thompson Road Columbus, Ohio 43230 (614) 775-0007 An “Upscale Neighborhood Bar” with a great Tuesday Night Bike Night

12 Harley-Davidson Sales & Service Napoleon Registration Stop 862 County Rd R3,

Napoleon, OH 43545 (419) 592-7123Northwest Ohio Harley-Davidson ® Dealership celebrating it’s 50th Anniversary this year!

13 Harley-Davidson Sales Company Cleveland Registration Stop

and Ride Stop

14550 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111 (216) 252-3111

Family owned Harley-Davidson dealership with a long history of ac-tive involvement in the motorcycle community.

14 Hickory Lake Inn Newbury Ride Stop 14592 Stone Road, Newbury, OH 44065 (440) 564-9735

The Hick is a local legend - with acres of space to relax and even camp along the lake.

15 Hide Away Country Inn Bucyrus Ride Stop

1601 State Route 4, Bucyrus, OH 44820 (419)562-3013

A quaint Country Inn hosts a Thursday Bike Night featuring an incredible “biker menu” prepared by their European Trained Chef. A great overnight escape for bikers touring central Ohio!

16 Hocking Hills Motorcycle Ranch Chillicothe Registration Stop and

Ride Stop26860 US Hwy 33, Rockbridge, OH (740) 385-4467 A cool retail shop in the midst of some of Ohio’s best roads to ride.

17 IRON PONY Columbus Registration Stop and Ride Stop

5436 Westerville Road, Westerville, OH 43081 (614) 901-PONY

The Motorcycle SUPERSTORE that you just have to see. Possibly the largest motorcycle store in the world? And it’s right here in Ohio.

18 Jackass Flats Dayton Ride Stop 6024 Rip Rap Road, Dayton, OH 45424 (937) 236-4329

Enjoy an escape to the Outback and take in one of the best bike nights in the state, worth a ride from the far corners of the Buckeye State!

19 Just for Fun Honda Middlefield Registration Stop and Ride Stop

15255 Kinsman Rd, Middlefield, OH 44062 (440) 632-1362

Honda Dealership in the midst of Northeast Ohio’s Amish Country. Plenty of great spots to see around it.

20 Knuckleheads Huron Ride Stop 2012 Cleveland Road W, Huron, Ohio 44839 (419)433-6944

A real, “old school” biker bar nestled in a shopping center right off Route 2

21 Mad River Harley-Davidson Sandusky Registration Stop 5316 State Rt. 250/Milan Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870

(419) 502-2244A huge Harley-Davidson ® Dealership with events and rides almost every weekend. Major Sponsor and Host of Ohio Bike Week

22 Margaritaville Sandusky Ride Stop 212 Fremont Ave, Sandusky, OH (419) 627-8903

One of the most popular riding destinations in the entire state. This biker friendly bar features a great deck that was designed specifically for rid-ers! Host of the Thunder Roads Thunder Zone during Ohio Bike Week!

23 Mason Jar Sandusky Ride Stop 4408 Mason Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870 (419) 359-1159

A great local biker friendly bar. Always a good time with a friendly crowd.

24 Playmakers Garfield Heights Ride Stop 9729 GrangerRoad, Garfield Heights, OH 44125

(216) 663-8000 A high-energy sports bar with amazing food that caters to bikers.

25 Powder Keg Harley-Davidson Mason Registration Stop 2383 Kings Center Court, Mason, OH

(513) 204-6962A stone’s throw from King’s Island - this active Harley-Davidson® dealership hosts regular Bike Nights and plenty of other events!

26 Regulators Marion Registration Stop and Ride Stop

2827 Marion Marysville Rd, Marion, OH 43302 (740) 382-6054

Owned and operated by Bikers for Bikers - Regulators is one of our favorite riding stops.

27 Roadhouse 66 Westerville Ride Stop 480 E Wilson Bridge Rd # A Worthington, OH 43085 (614) 505-6140

Enjoy a cool nostalgic feel at a cool riding destination that hosts Bike Nights both Wednesday and Thursday

28 Sassy’s Twinsburgh Ride Stop 10755 Ravenna Rd., Twinsburg, OH 44087 (330) 998-6529

A very female friendly biker bar with a cool cutting edge look to it. Oh - and they have great food as well!

29 Shag-A-Lees Mansfield Ride Stop 381 Ashland Rd., Mansfield, OH 44905 (419) 526-9179

Very cool, old school Biker Bar minutes from the “Shawshank” reformatory.

30 Slapsy Maxies Columbus Ride Stop 1019 Mediterranean Ave., Columbus, OH 43229 (614) 433-0077

Biker Friendly Neighborhood Pub with Live Music and Great Bike Night

31 Snuffy’s Reloaded Bradner Ride Stop 1313 St. Rt. 6, Bradner, OH 43406 (419) 288-1718

Great riding destination a short ride from Sandusky and Ohio Bike Week. Great Burgers!

32 South East Harley-Davidson

Bedford Heights

Registration Stop and Ride Stop

23105 Aurora Rd, Bedford Heights, OH 44146 (440) 439-5300

A great family owned Harley-Davidson ® Dealership with the world famous Harley Diner inside!

33 Sportsterz Geneva on the Lake Ride Stop 5422 Lake Rd E., Geneva, OH 44041

(440) 466-2361Great riding destination in the midst of Geneva-On-The-Lake. Pos-sibly the most Biker Friendly Town in Ohio

34 The Dog House Bedford Ride Stop 589 Broadway Ave., Bedford, Ohio (440)439-5046

Uniquely spicey and simply amazing chili tops incredible dogs that distract you from incredible subs. Editors Recommendation: Every-thing Dog and the Hot Italian Sub! (Just not at the same time!)

35 The Pavilion Geneva on the Lake Ride Stop 5276 Lake Road East, Geneva, OH 44041

(440)466-3283A Biker Haven that anchors one of Ohio’s Greatest Riding Destina-tions: Geneva-On-The-Lake

36 The Rig Warren Ride Stop 9421 East Market St., Warren, OH 44484 (330) 856-7992

Biker Friendly Bar with great wings. Cool Monday Bike Night w DJ and PARTY crowd.

37 The Villa Dayton Ride Stop 6303 Rip Rap Road, Huber Heights, OH 45424 (937) 237-0091

The Villa was chosen as our very first Biker Bar of the month and it remains one of our favorites. A late night Wednesday Bike Night is always a great time. Outdoor bars and stage.

38 Towne House Tavern Marion Ride Stop 199 David St., Marion, OH 43302

(740) 383-9887A traditional biker friendly destination in the midst of Marion and Central Ohio.

39 Valley Harley-Davidson Belmont Registration Stop

and Ride Stop41255 Reco Road, Belmont, OH (740) 695-9591

Harley-Davidson ® Dealership in the midst of Southeastern Ohio and beautiful riding country!

40 Warren Harley-Davidson Warren Registration Stop

and Ride Stop2102 Elm Rd, Cortland, OH 44410 (330) 395-4700

Great community oriented Harley-Davidson ® Dealership with a Rac-ing Team that just won a AHDRA National Championship

41 Zeppe’s Newbury Ride Stop 11110 Kinsman Rd., Newbury, OH 44065 (440) 564-1300

Great food and a new patio, surrounded by open roads with limited lights or stops make this a solid riding destination. Wednesday Bike Nights.

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THUNDER ROADS RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY, CHANGE, END, AND CANCEL THIS PROMOTION – DUE TO THE CONSTRAINTS OF OPERATING WITHIN THE REAL WORLD.


startinG Date Day time event location6/1/2012 - 6/10/2012 10 DAY RALLY ALL DAY OHIO BIKE WEEK Pick up your Bike Week Passport at Margaritaville

6/2/2012 Saturday 9a - 8th Annual Brandy Winfield Memorial Poker Run Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Marion Ohio

6/5/2012 Tuesday 6pm Rolling Bike Night Mad River Harley-Davidson, Sandusky

6/9/2012 Saturday 10a, AHDRA Ohio Bike Week Nationals Norwalk, Ohio

6/14/2012 - 6/17/2012 Weekend ALL DAY Rally In The Corn Van Wert, Ohio

6/16/2012 Saturday 11a, Bridges, Bikes, and Blues Eaton, Ohio

6/19/2012 Tuesday 6pm Rolling Bike Night Erie Kai Tavern, Huron

6/22/2012 Friday 6pm 23rd Annual Ferrari Night at South East Harley Davidson

South East Harley-Davidson Bedford Heights, Ohio

6/23/2012 Saturday 9a 3rd Annual SSG Shannon Smith Motorcycle Event QSL Columbus and other locations

6/24/2012 Sunday 2p Mulligans & Mutts Mulligans Pub, Avon Ohio

7/3/2012 Tuesday 6pm Rolling Bike Night Mason Jar, Sandusky

event stops

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NORTHWEST OHIO 60 ohioBikeweek.com Thunder roads® magazine ohio

Thunder roads® magazine ohio ohioBikeweek.com 61

62 ohioBikeweek.com Thunder roads® magazine ohio

SATURDAY JUNE 9TH@6PM @

#1 Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Band

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Performing

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To Learn More Visit Coalitionoffreedom.com

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America’s growing Energy Independence through Thorium Power, Natural Gas, Oil, and Coal. Join us and be part of history by

visiting our booth during Bike Week and the Week and the Freedom Concert. Liberty America is allowing those who inquire at our booth to leave

theirJohn Hancock on the body of the

Freedom Bus.

Don’t miss this historical oppotunity.

Promoting America’s EnergyIndependence






Where: Your Sandusky, Ohio, Sam’s Club®

When: Valid through June 11, 2012

How: Bring this pass to your local Club. Present to the Member Services Desk Associate for your One-Day Pass.

This pass allows you to shop in Sam’s Club for one day only. This pass is good for one day only. Only original passes will be accepted. Information necessary to assign a One-Day Pass number will be collected at time of use. No other conditions or privileges of annual Membership apply. You must pay for your purchases with cash, debit card (see Club for qualifying networks), Walmart® Credit, MasterCard® or Discover® cards only (no checks). You may apply for annual Membership, subject to qualifi cations, while visiting any Sam’s Club location or online at SamsClub.com. To view our privacy policy, visit SamsClub.com/privacy. Good through June 11, 2012.

One-Day Pass

Pass Number Reference #10947

A 10% service fee applies on all non-Member purchases when shopping with this One-Day Pass (not applicable in CA, SC or Elmsford, NY).

Sandusky Sam’s ClubU.S. 250 and Hwy. 2419.626.6563

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Niagara motorcycle showJULY 20-22

Scotiabank Convention CentreNiagara Falls, Canada

www.niagaramotorcycleshow.com





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-The Parts Slinger-

The essentials

listdean “deano” whitmire MRHD

While looking to purchase that new or used motorcycle, the list of essentials you will need to get your bike road ready should not be over looked. I have selected a sample of the accessories that will give you the comfort and versatility you require for your adventures. Generally when we look to purchase a bike, we analyze each bike to find one that will fill the ride we are looking for. Whether we are talking about a bottom of the line Sportster 883 all the way up to the Ultra Trike, every model has a unique role to play and has what I would call the “ESSENTIALS LIST” to go along with it. Some bikes have a list a mile long while others you can count on one hand. Think of your bike as a blank canvas that you can use to create a great two wheeled masterpiece. Now as much as I would like to think that all accessories are essential, what I am really talking about is seats, windshields, saddlebags, backrests, stage one kits and the ergonomic accessories.

To start off, let’s look at windshields and the endless choices you have ahead of you. The most common reasons I hear when customers want to buy a windshield is to protect them from the elements, such as blocking the wind, rain, and those pesky insects. I don’t think I have ever heard someone say they wanted to add a windshield because they make my bike look “cool”. In lieu of that, my recommendation would be to choose the full size option. With the exception of the Electra Glide line, these windshields are all detachable so you get total protection that can be removed to reveal that streamline custom look you fell in love with. I would also highly recommend that for these models it is better to stick with the Harley-Davidson brand. Although the aftermarket world offers some nice product, I find the overall fit and function of the mounting hardware from Harley is better. When it comes to the Electra Glide and Road Glide models, there are several great options available to choose from. Lately the most popular line of lexan is the Klock Werks Flare. The sizes available for Batwing and Road Glide Fairings are 3.5, 6.5 (which is what I run), 8.5 and 11.5 inches. A close second to this would be Harley’s new Wind Splitter Windshield in 4.5, 7 and 10 inches and is also

available for the Road Glide.

Next on the list is what I would consider to be the hardest decision for most to make - how to carry all those necessities that won’t fit in your pockets. There are so many options it will make you dizzy just thinking about it. But for Parts Slinger’s the wide variety provides us a large arsenal to fit each rider with the perfect system for their style of riding. You enter this labyrinth of options by weighing the features and benefits between ridged mount, detachable, throw over and luggage systems. When choosing a set of saddlebags keep in mind that there are very few that are designed to be detachable and almost all saddlebags will require a turn signal relocation kit. If there is a particular style of the rigid saddlebag you like, in most cases you can convert them to detachable with the help of Cycle Vision’s Bareback detach system. A solid docking kit with minimum hardware that will only set you back around $150. Once you have decided how you will mount your new bags you will need to make the eternal choice, leather or synthetic. Leather requires some up keep with leather conditioner and will usually cost you more. Synthetic requires virtually no up keep but just doesn’t have the look and feel that leather will give you. If you decide to go with a set of throw over style bags, you will need saddlebag support brackets. These brackets provide a place to secure them to and prevent from getting caught up in your wheel - so you don’t look like the flying nun cruising down the highway. The down side to this option is if you have dreams and aspirations of a detachable backrest, you will not be able to run a set of throw overs and supports without some serious fabrication work.

If saddlebags are not your thing, but you need a way to carry your leathers than a luggage system may just be in your future. Harley-Davidson, Saddlemen and T-Bag brands have some incredible lines that come in all shapes and sizes to fit your needs. Now, as far as the argument that these bags are a lower cost option to a set of saddlebags, in most cases that tends to be false. Even though the bags tend to be lower in

Touring backrest rack


price, you will need a way to attach them to you scooter. The majority of riders use the combination of a passenger backrest with a luggage rack to achieve this. The average cost for this combination is around $400 to $650. With the additional cost of the luggage you are right back up to the price of those “expensive” saddlebags.

Another essential that I previously touched on would be the passenger backrest or “sissy bar”. If you own a Sportster, Dyna or a Softail model you have a slew of choices in front of you, such as detachable vs. rigid, 5 different height variations, and standard size or wide touring pads. Now there is even the option to recline - yes I said recline. When making the all important decision to go rigid or detachable, as discussed earlier you will need to keep in mind how this will affect your saddlebag and/or luggage choices. I would venture to say that what you see on the backs of most bikes would be the medium or the medium-low height bar. The really short bars do not give you any back support, but provides the comfort of knowing that your passenger won’t slide off the back. For those of you that were shocked at my earlier reclining backrest statement, Harley has developed a set of detachable side plates that will allow your passenger to change the angle of the backrest bar and recline for maximum comfort. This feature is available for most 2000 and later Softail, 2006 and later Dyna, and 2004 and later Sportster models. For Vrod family members, you are limited to a rigid style backrest which will require specific mounting hardware. And in some cases will mandate drilling mounting holes in the fender. The Touring models that do not come with a tour pak and the plush backrest pad have a limited selection as well. If you are running a 2008 and earlier you have three different height detachable backrest bars to choose from, and one ridged mount bar that includes an unsightly luggage rack. The 2009 and newer models only offer two heights of detachable backrest bars with no option of a ridged mount available. To save you money in the long run, my recommendation for the 2009 and newer models would be to get the 4 point docking hardware kit vs. just the 2 point kit.

The 2 point is roughly $110 dollars and will only allow you to run a backrest or the Solo style luggage rack. If you decide down the road you want to get a detachable tourpak or add a luggage rack to your backrest setup, you will need the 4 point docking kit which around $160 and will require you to remove the 2 point kit that you previously purchased.

The last major essential for your bike that I will touch on today is exhaust and stage one upgrades. I’m not going to get into much detail about this topic, as it requires a full article alone just to go into the ever expanding brands and to explain the reasons behind these upgrades. What I will say in the short term, exhaust come in all shapes, styles, decibel levels and prices for you to choose from, and when combined with the right air cleaner, fuel management upgrade or carburetor adjustment you can achieve that “classic sound” and good overall run ability of your scooter. Personally, I truly think this subject causes the greatest amount of controversy and passionate discussions between us Slingers to what we think is the best setup for our customers. My famous line when asked about this subject is “Ask 10 different people and get 10 different answers”, heck just surf some of the many online forums and you can see what I mean. I plan on tackling this subject in an upcoming article, giving you all the info and my analysis on the subject so you may discuss it with your fellow riders and your personal Parts Slinger to create the set up that works best for you.

Before I bid you all adieu, if you have any questions or comments on current or previous articles or would like to make suggestions on subject matter or specific parts that you would like to see us tackle in future issues then feel free to contact me. Stop by Facebook and type The parts slinger in the search bar and “Like” my page or you can email me directly at: [email protected]. I look forward to hearing from you so we can bring you the information that interests you when looking to personalize your scooter.

Detatchables KlockwerksTouring backrest rack

Wind-Splitter

Luggage system


INTERNAL COMBUSTIONScott Colosimo of Cleveland

CycleWerks and a group of builders, painters, and other artists have teamed together to produce INTERNAL COMBUSTION, a gallery show featuring custom motorcycles and other works of art aimed at motorcycle enthusiasts. The greater Cleveland area has a diverse underground motorcycle industry and culture. This collective show will highlight the culture, the craftsmanship, the creativity and the love we all share for building, wrenching, painting, and riding.

Others involved in the project include custom builders Jesse Bassett from Gasbox, Stan Lipert from Northern Ohio Ducati / Triumph, and Tyler Malinky from Lowbrow Customs. Featured artists include Ellis from Devils Hand Production, Mark “Fat Daddy” Hagstrom, and Ryan “Old Skool” Mohr.

The show is being held at the 1point618 gallery at Gordon Square, 6421 Detroit Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44102. You can find additional information at ClevelandCycleWerks.com or www.1point618gallery.com

The editors of Thunder roads highly recommend this event as this group contains some of the most passionate folks we know in the business. we can only imagine the results of them showcasing their collective talents.

feaTured Bikes include:

1965 BSA

1940 Indian

1954/57 BSA M21

2010 CCW Heist

1966 Norton Slimline Featherbed chassis / 1956 Triumph T120R engine

1962/65 Norton Dunstall 810 Café

1959 Harley-Davidson Panhead

1955 Triumph Land Speed Bike





EDITOR’S NOTE: We have received a tremendous response to our How To Host A Poker Run series, which we will have available online at ThunderRoadsOhio.com. We have decided to broaden the scope to include other events as well.

The lifeblood of virtually all nonprofit events are the volunteers who are willing to donate their time and services to a cause. In fact, volunteers serve as the backbone of many nonprofits. Before undertaking any event – whether it’s a poker run, a bike show, or rally; it’s important to recognize that there are certain considerations that must be understood when it comes to working with volunteers.

First off you have to recognize what the motivating factors are in terms of your volunteers. Sometimes it’s the cause you are working to support. Health issues and animal causes such as shelters can often bring out very passionate volunteers willing to work hard to support your event – regardless of any past history. A rider that has lost a loved one to cancer might just walk in off the street to volunteer in support of an event benefiting cancer awareness or research. That volunteer’s motivation is the cause and it’s easy to understand it. Sometimes it’s a little more complicated.

Sometimes you may get a volunteer that is looking for extra recognition or social status. Often times you get volunteers looking to join an organization or support a group purely for the chance to interact with others. These social volunteers are often times more difficult to manage, especially if they really lack a solid commitment to your cause or organization. Socially motivated volunteers can often contribute tremendously to an event – but you need to watch out for the winds of change. An outside relationship (suddenly they start dating someone outide the event or group) or loss of free time might cause the person to re-evaluate their time commitment with you and your project. A falling out with others in the group may immediately cause a socially motivated volunteer to drop as well. You need to be aware of this and watch for signs of problems – especially if you are placing additional responsibilities on this person.

Its especially important to consider the motivation behind a volunteer when considering them for a leadership or position of responsibility within your group. Placing too much responsibility or faith in a person without clear dedication to your group or cause can lead to unnecessary challenges and potentially devastating consequences if that person bails on you. Especially if they leave on a negative note.

Some Tips for Recruiting Volunteers

1. create recruitment materials. Think about the types of people you want as volunteers and tailor your materials to them. Make sure to include how much time you need your volunteers to commit to. You will attract the interest of higher caliber folks with higher caliber materials.

2. The internet is a great resource for connecting to people. If your organization has a website, highlight the volunteer program and list contact information for all inquiries. Websites like Volunteermatch.org and online communities like Craigslist.org also allow

3. word of mouth is often the best way for an organization to recruit volunteers--use your organization’s personal network to reach out to the community. Another option is to reach out to religious groups, schools and community organizations to find out if they are interested in receiving information on volunteer opportunities. There are even programs like R.S.V.P. (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) which is a national


network that matches volunteers to organizations. (These types of agencies sometimes require paperwork and specific arrangements, so be sure to do your homework in advance.)

4. conduct targeted outreach. If your project requires a specific skill - target your outreach and materials to those people. Don’t be afraid to directly approach a company offering the services you need. Especially if you have the ability to promote their involvement.

5. when you just need a lot of hands for a short period of time, you can try the “warm body” recruitment approach. With this recruitment approach it’s all about spreading your call for volunteers as far and as wide as possible. Spread the word and fill the “slots”. Make sure that you allow for a high percentage of these folks to drop off, though.

6. recruit from your existing networks. Invite your supporters, your partners and friends to volunteer. At worst you have an extra pair of hands. At best it will deepen their commitment to help your cause.

7. offer incentives. If you have an event with admission over a period of time, offer admission bundles – ie., if you volunteer at least X number of hours you receive 4 passes to the event. Cool event t-shirts are also nice recognition and incentives for offering a minimum number of hours.

I have worked with a number of organizations that have taken to establishing a “statement of commitment” for their volunteers. In essence they form a contract with the potential volunteer that outlines their commitment and expectations. This can be especially helpful in making certain that everyone understands the situation. It also can effectively tie someone to an agreed upon time frame for their commitment. An on-going, potentially never-ending commitment can be intimidating and overwhelming to many.

Volunteers are an essential

component to making an event fly!


A “statement of commitment” might include the following key components:

• How much time are you expecting them to commit to.

• Per week? Per month?

• How many advance planning meetings are there?

• What’s the actual time commitment for the “event”?

• A minimum expectation for the duration of their commitment.

For example, you could outline everything in a few simple paragraphs.

“Rally volunteers are expected to take part in at least 2-3 pre-event training days, usually held on Saturdays and lasting from 10am to 4pm. The week prior to the event, we would ask that all volunteers commit to a minimum of 8-12 hours of assistance with event preparations. During the actual Rally Weekend, we would ask for a minimum commitment of at least three 6 hour shifts.

Sunday evening after the event, we ask that all volunteers commit to assisting with breakdown. This begins immediately at 4pm and with everyone’s help – should be done within a few hours.

In appreciation of this time and your commitment to the event, all volunteers shall receive a pair of General Rally Passes, a Rally staff t-shirt, and the appreciation of the entire community.”

Once you have a pool of volunteers to work with, there are some general suggestions we would make.

start on the right foot. Training and orientation are a great way to welcome new volunteers and make them feel like part of a team. An instructional volunteer training session should present an overview of expectations for volunteers and provide them with the information they need to succeed. Draft a volunteer manual that clearly defines all procedures in writing and use it as an outline for the training session. Provide

volunteers with other helpful materials like brochures and contact lists. Formally introduce volunteers to members of the organization and the board and indicate names, positions and departments.

create a schedule. It is important to accommodate volunteers’ availability to avoid scheduling conflicts. Finish the schedule a week or two in advance and make certain that everyone has access to it. A resource such as Google Documents is a great way to share a schedule and make certain that its current. Volunteers should know to check the schedule regularly for changes, but you can also contact them. If you use Google Documents, you can set it so that everyone gets notified when you post a new schedule or make changes. Just make certain that everyone else is on “View” and not “Edit” – since you don’t want everyone making changes.

Be prepared for contingencies. At times, a volunteer may not be able to show up for a shift. The person or department who makes the schedule should also be responsible for resolving these matters. Volunteers should know whom to contact and should

be encouraged to call as soon as scheduling issues arise. keep volunteers busy. Ongoing supervision will ensure that volunteers are contributing to the organization. If the workload is substantive, volunteers will stay busy and engaged. Management should constantly assess projects and volunteer performance in order to maximize volunteers’ efforts.

evaluate to determine successfulness. Both the administration and volunteers should be involved in evaluating your volunteer program. Draft questionnaires that address strengths and weaknesses of the program and have volunteers fill them out anonymously. Honest feedback can be extremely helpful for evaluating the program. recognize your volunteers. Volunteers want to know that their time and services are valuable. Recognition of volunteers’ work is a great way to retain volunteers and cultivate lasting relationships. Words of praise and thank you notes are simple (and inexpensive) ways to express gratitude and appreciation. A wrap up party, appreciation dinner, or other type of get-together is an invaluable means of showing appreciation to everyone that has contributed to your event. It also allows you to possibly mend fences or address issues that came up during the “heat of battle”. Often times volunteers get hammered with an event – then it ends and they don’t hear anything until they are needed again. After a frustrating experience, you can imagine how quickly they return those phone calls.

If you throw a party afterwards (and its usually EASY to find a place to host or sponsor volunteer parties), you can make certain that you leave things on a positive note with everyone. That’s especially important for annual events, when folks may be left stewing over an unpleasant experience.

These are just a few recommendations and ideas regarding managing volunteers. If you do it properly, everyone will feel like they are working together towards a common goal. Far too often event If an organization is willing to invest in a volunteer program and support all individuals involved, the experience can be extremely rewarding and be the key to continued success for your event.

some jobs are a little easier to find volunteers for then others.

its important to understand the motivation of your volunteers.








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scooterz-n-shooterz1840 Town Park Blvd Suite DUniontown, OH 44685(330) 563-4683

Three olde hens & a rooster22 South Main St.Ashley, OH 43003(740) 361-2470

Trd leather6321 Detroit Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 44102(216) 631-6233

urban gardensMarion, OH (740) 375-2800urbangardensohio.com

Vivid Jewelers27217 Wolf RdBay Village, OH 44140(440) 835-0111

Salesadventure harley-davidson1465 State Rt 39 NW Dover, OH 44622 (330) 364-6519

apex powersports938 Cookson Ave, SENew Philadelphia, OH 44663(330) 308-8900

athens sport cycles165 Columbus Rd.Athens, OH 45701(740) 592-1692

Buckminn’s d&d harley-davidson1213 Cincinnati AveXenia, OH 45385(866) 218-1452

carlton harley-davidson11771 State Route 44Mantua, OH 44255(330) 274-3141

century harley-davidson3053 Eastpointe DriveMedina, OH 44256(330) 721-1702

cleveland’s harley-davidson sales company14550 Lorain Ave.Cleveland, OH 44111(216) 252-3111

competiton accessories343 W. LeffelSpringfield, OH 45506(937) 323-0513

hales harley-davidson1400 Harrington Memorial Rd.Mansfield, OH 44903(419) 522-8602

harley-davidson sales & service 862 County Rd R3Napoleon, OH 43545(419) 592-7123

honda of marysville640 Coleman’s Crossing BlvdMarysville, OH 43040(866) 645-4080



Sales continued...

integrity cycles156 Dering AveColumbus, OH 43207(800) 969-2005

iron hogz power sports6387 N. State Route 48Lebanon, OH 45036(513) 836-3824

mad river harley-davidson5316 State Rt. 250/Milan RdSandusky, OH 44870(419) 502-2244

motorcycle maxx5838 Columbus BlvdLewis Center, OH 43035(614) 883-5800

pony motorsports5436 Westerville Road Westerville, OH 43081(614) 901-PONY

powder keg harley-davidson2383 Kings Center CourtMason, OH(513) 204-6962

rubber city harley-davidson32 E. Cuyahoga Falls AveAkron, OH 44310(330) 535-9900

signature harley-davidson1176 Professional DrPerrysburg, OH 43551(419) 873-2453

south east cycles23105 Aurora RdBedford Heights, OH 44146(440) 439-5300

south east harley-davidson23105 Aurora RdBedford Heights, Oh 44146(440) 439-5300

The speed factory2864 N. High St.Columbus, OH 43202 (614) 267-7333

Toledo harley-davidson7960 W. Central AveToledo, OH 43617(419) 843-7892

Treasure coast harley-davidson4967 SE Federal Hwy Stuart, FL 34997(772) 287-3871

warren harley-davidson2102 Elm RdCortland, OH 44410(330) 395-4700

western reserve harley-davidson 8567 Tyler BlvdMentor, OH 44060(440) 974-6900

Valley harley-davidson41255 Reco RoadBelmont, OH(740) 695-9591

Serviceamerican V-Twin3440 Port Union RoadFairfield, OH 45014(513) 515-9249

arts parts custom cycle & service35 E. Church St.Marshallville, OH 44645(330) 855-3762

Balcer performance & restoration565 Broadway Ave Unit RBedford, OH 44146(440) 945-6829

cheshire choppers5750 St. Rt. 37, EDelaware, OH 43015(740) 362-0695

cleveland motorcycle mfg co. 4327 Lorain AveCleveland, OH 44113(216) 961-5151

cycle analysis4984 West 150th St

Cleveland, OH 44135(216) 362-9060

driven classics & customs4230 Coonpath Rd Carroll, OH (740) 756-7776

iron city choppers1119 ½ 3rd St. Ironton, OH 45638(740) 534-9487

metal fab mafia 4232 Coonpath Rd.Carroll, OH 43112(740) 689-5780

performance engineering4327 Lorain AveCleveland, OH 44113(216) 961-5151

roeder racing & service3684 U.S Rt. 20Monroeville, OH 44847(419) 465-2247

rwB cycles161 Yorkshire CtElyria, OH 44035(440) 365-0589

south east cycles23105 Aurora Rd. Bedford Heights, OH 44146(440) 439-5300

steel core customs1104 S. Washington St.Circleville, OH 43113(740) 412-9349The Bike shop750 East Glenwood AveAkron, OH 44310(330) 940-2453

Twin Visions4520 Alum Creek DrColumbus, OH 43207(614) 409-1060

Tattoo Shops546 Tattoo53 Benedict AveNorwalk, OH (567) 424-6200

Bad ass Tattoo46065 Telegraph RdAmherst, OH 44001(440) 986-3845

The dragons cachet #1118 W. Chillicothe AveBellefontaine, OH 43311(937) 599-2258

The dragon’s cachet #2320 N. GaverMonroe, OH 43311(937) 599-2258

empire ink335 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave.Akron, OH 44310(330) 928-9833

iron clad Tattoos36221 Lakeshore BlvdEastlake, OH 44095(440) 951-4-INKlazy dave’s Tattoo27084 Lorain Ave North Olmsted, OH 44070(440) 777-4465 my museum Tattoo209 E. Ohio Ave.Dover, OH 44622(330) 343-8500 route 42 Tattoo201 S. Franklin St.Ashley, OH 43003(740) 413-4042stained skin1255 N. High StColumbus, OH 43201(614) 297-SKINsudden urge Tattoos9360 Mentor AveMentor, Ohio 44060(440) 368-3529Tri-state Tattoos418 S. 2nd StIronton, OH 45638(740) 302-7723zebra Tattooz8934 State Route 14Streetsboro, OH 44241(330) 626-9776



Central Ohio

Northeast Ohio

Northwest Ohio

Southern Ohio

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All events are listed as per the infor-mation submitted to Thunder Roads Ohio. TRO is not responsible for inaccuracies or the specifics of the information provided. If you would like your event listed, please email details and your contact information to: [email protected]

June 1-10, 2012Ohio Bike WeekSandusky, OH ohiobikeweek.com

June 1-3, 2012Thunder Road Madness RallyS&P Harley-DavidsonWilliamstown, WVKick Off 11amthunderroadmadness.com

June 1-3, 2012Rally on the RockPut-In-Bay Resort & Conference CenterScavenger Hunt Sunday @ 3pmFor More Information Call: (888) 742-7829

June 1, 2012Abate MC Awareness RallySunbury, OH abate.com

June 2-3, 2012Spring Biker BashCircleville Moose RidersCircleville, OH circlevillemooseriders.org

June 2, 20128th Annual Brandy Winfield Memorial Poker RunMarion County FairgroundsMarion, OHRegistration 9am-11:30 amBikes Out @ Noon$20/single $25 doublebrandywinfieldrun.org

June 2, 2012Ohio Bike Week Kick Off Party & RideAdventure Harley-DavidsonDover, OH Ride to Sandusky-Starts 10amFree Pancake Breakfast PriorFor More Information Call: (330) 364-6519

June 2, 2012Ken Carrel Cancer RidePowder Keg Harley-DavidsonMason, OHRegistration starts at 10am$15/single $20/coupleLive music by Hollywood Tragedy at 1:30pmAll proceeds go to Ken for medical expenses incurred during colon cancer treatmentFor More Information Call (513) 204-6962

June 2, 2012Huron County Firefighters/ 9/11 Memorial Poker RunRoeder Racing & ServiceMonroeville, OH$20/personroederracing.com

June 2, 2012Red Cross Blood DriveHarley-Davidson Sales & ServiceNapoleon, OH 9am-2pmWalk In or By AppointmentFor More Information Call: (419) 592-7123

June 2, 2012Ride For The PawsPorter PubLima, OHRegistration 9:45am-11:45amLast Bike In @ 5pmFor More Information Call: (419) 979-8734Email: [email protected]

June 2, 20126th Annual John Hollywood Watts Poker Run & Bike ShowFairborn, OHFirst out 11am$15/person, Spectators FREE

June 2nd, 20126th Annual Vietnam Vets MCSHOOTOUT Canton, OhioStarts at 11:00amFor More Information Call PhotoBob @ (330) 484-2565Or E-Mail: [email protected]

June 2nd, 2012Walgreens 5th Annual Charity Ride, Cruise-Inn, Craft ShowWalgreens Perrysburg Distribution CenterFirst bike out @ 9:30am$20/rider $25/coupleFor more information call: Sheryl (419) 662-4638OR Darlene (419) 662-4008

June 2, 2012 Peony Festival Motorcycle Awareness ParadeVan Wert FairgroundsVan Wert, OHBikes line up at 5pmFor More Information Call Robert at (419) 605-2919vanwert.com/peony/about.asp

June 2-3, 2012Marion Ohio Half Mile RacingMarion County FairgroundsSign in at 9am$25 entry fee $35 pro entry feeFor more information call (740) 396-0350www.ohioflattracksportcenter.com

June 3, 2012 3rd Annual Panty RunCarlton Harley-DavidsonMantua, OHRegistration 10am-11amBikes Out @ 11amBikes In @ 4pmFor More Information Call: (330) 274-3141

June 3, 2012Wind and Fire Ridin’ 4 the Kids Poker RunFreedom Harley-DavidsonNorth Canton, OH10am-5pmFor More Information Call: (330) 575-1519windandfireneo.com

June 3, 2012VFW Post 8054 Men’s Auxiliary 2nd Annual Poker Run4960 State Route 61Mt. Gilead, OHRide begins at 12pmFor More Information Call (740) 244-6565

June 3, 2012Annual Breast Fest Bike RunHoly Grail BanksCincinnati, OH$15 for rider $20 with passengerRegistration begins at 10:30amFor more information call (513) 378-3264

June 5-9, 201230th Annual AmericadeFort William Henry ResortLake George, NYamericade.com

June 7-9, 2012Capitol City Biker BashAlong Kanawha BoulevardCharleston, WV$15/ entire weekendcapitolcitybikerbash.com

June 8-10, 201210th Annual BikerFest WeekendRushing Wind Biker ChurchZanesville, OHEvents Fri-Sun, Live Music, free lunch sunday, & much more!For More Information Call (740) 823-5002rushingwindzanesville.com

June 9-17, 2012Laconia Bike WeekLaconia, NHlaconiamcweek.com

June 9-10, 2012AHRDA Ohio Bike Week NationalsNorwalk, OHRacing starts at 10am$50/weekend, $30/day - coupon

on websiteChildren 11 and under FREEMilitary FREECamping availableahdra.com

June 9, 2012Girls of Thunder Ride!Hosted by Thunder Roads Ohio & The Road SistersStarts @ The ChapelSandusky, OH 8:30 am (Blessing @ 10am) Margaritaville (Lunch Stop)Sandusky, OH Continue To Roeder Racing & Pub 94Monroeville, OH For More Information Email Linda: [email protected]

June 9, 2012Demo Day!Adventure Harley-DavidsonDover, OH 10am - 3:30pm*Must Have Valid Endorsement, Helmet, & Long PantsFor More Information Call: (330) 364-6519

June 9, 2012Get Ink’d at The Keg: King Ink CustomsPowder Keg Harley-DavidsonMason, OH12:00pm-4:00pmFor More Information Call (513) 204-6962

June 9, 2012Demo Day!Buckminn’s D&D Harley-DavidsonXenia, OH 9:15am-3:45pm*Proper Endorsement & Proof of Insurance RequiredFor More Information Call: (866) 218-1452

June 9, 2012Alex’s Lemonade StandPowder Keg Harley-DavidsonMason, OHDetails TBDFor More Information Call (513) 204-6962

June 9, 2012CMA Songwriter’s SeriesPowder Keg Harley-DavidsonMason, OHBrian White & Elliot Sloan, lead singer of Blessed Union of Souls5pmFor More Information Call (513) 204-6962

PRESENTED BYUpcoming Events

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June 9, 2012Office Bar Benefit & Poker RunGreenville, OH Registration starts 10amFirst bike out 1pm$10/person $20/person if campingFor More Information Call: (937) 459-5734 or (937) 564-0669

June 9, 2012Dyno Shoot Out Century Harley-Davidson3053 Eastpoint DriveMedina, OH 44256(330) 721-1702centuryhd.com

June 9, 2012Run for the Flags500 Flags, Eastlake, OHRegistration begins 11am$10 donationFor More Information Call: (440) 342-0706

June 9, 2012Bikers for the BattleAmerican Cancer Society Marion Regional Cancer CenterMarion, OHRegistration @ 11:30amBikes leave @ 12pm$20/riderEnds at Knights of Columbus Hall

June 9, 2012Annual Poker Run Four Lakes & A BeachSouth BeachAlliance, OH Registration at 10am$15/rider $20 with passengerFor more information call (330) 823-7223

June 9, 2012Springfield H.O.G. Ride to Fight HungerMid-Ohio Harley-DavidsonRun starts at 11amFor More Information Call (937) 322-3590

June 9, 201210th Annual Bikerfest WeekendsRushing Wind Biker Church5715 East PikeZanesville, OHRegistration and meal at 12pmFor more Information Call (740) 923-5002

June 9, 2012Eagles 3506 2nd Annual MHS Special Olympics Benefit Poker RunMarysville Eagles LodgeMarysville, OHFirst bike out 11am$15/rider $5/passengerProceeds will be donated to MHS

Special OlympicsFor More Information Call (937) 645-5604

June 9, 2012Poppy RunToledo Harley-DavidsonRegistration Begins at 9:30 am$20/bike23 mile ride ends with food & door prizesFor More Information Call (419) 345-9091

June 10, 2012Worden’s Custom Cycle Annual Charity 100 Mile Poker RunCanal Fulton Tire & AutomotiveCanal Fulton, OH10:30am-5pmFor More Information Call: (330) 854-6932

June 10, 2012Cleveland Ride For KidsIndependence Field House Soccer FieldsIndependence, OHRegistration 8am-9:45amRide Begins at 10am sharp$35/personFor More Info Call 1-800-253-6530

June 10, 2012Walneck’s Motorcycle SwapClark County FairgroundsSpringfield, OH8am-3pmAdmission: $6walneckswap.com

June 10, 2012LCPL Deyarmin MemorialTallmadge, OH$15/rider $10/passengerdndfund.com

June 10, 2012Jenifer Scott Memorial RidePowder Keg Harley-DavidsonMason, OHRegistration begins at 9amLive Music by American RebelsProceeds to pay for Jenifer’s funeral costsFor More Information Call (513) 204-6962

June 10, 2012Poker Run Operation: Support Patriot ProtectionOgresCanton, OHRegistration begins at 10am$20/bikeRide ends with music, prizes, food & moreFor More Information Call (330) 904-4491

June 10, 20125th Annual Rick’s Wrench RunEZ’s Orangeville TavernOrangeville, OHSign-up begins at 11am$15/rider $10/passengerChicken dinner - 50/50 raffleFor More Information Call (330) 246-0519

June 12, 2012Smoke Out at The KegPowder Keg Harley-DavidsonMason, OHSpecial cigar packs available for purchase from Bell’s House of Tobacco 7pm-9pmFor More Information Call (513) 204-6962

June 14-17, 2012Rally In The Corn Van Wert County FairgroundsVan Wert, OH$30 Entire Weekend (advance purchase)rallyinthecorn.com

June 15-17, 201215th Annual Sneek To The CreekMLMC Club HouseMt. Sterling, OH 21 and OverFor More Information Call: (614) 629-7611mlmccolumbus.com

June 16-17, 2012Bridges Bikes & Blueseaton, oh$20/rider, free passengerpchs.preblecounty.com

June 16, 20122nd Anniversary Party!Buckminn’s D&D Harley-DavidsonXenia, OH All Day EventFor More Information Call: (866) 218-1452

June 16, 2012 Dan Rabe Family Benefit RunHarley-Davidson Sales & ServiceNapoleon, OH Registration @ 10amBikes Out @ 12pm$15/single $20/coupleFor More Info Call: Mike @ (419) 966-9492or Kari @ (419) 409-0349

June 16, 2012Father’s Day Cookout & GiveawayHosted By Boy Scout Troop #94Adventure Harley-DavidsonDover, OH 9am-4pmFor More Information Call: (330) 364-6519

June 16, 20127th Annual Poker Run for AnimalsKenton, OHRegistration at 10amDonation $10/driver $5/passengerhchumane.com

June 16, 2012Deuce’s Donuts With Dad!Mad River Harley-DavidsonSandusky, OHFirst 25 In the Store Win A Prize!For More Information Call: (419) 502-2244

June 16, 201211 Sons of Monroe County Honor and Remember RideBeallsville, OH12pm-3pmFor More Info Email: [email protected]://facebook.com/groups/11SonsOfMonroeCounty

June 16, 2012American Hero Recognition Ride7270 Motorcycle Dr.Greenville, OHRegistration begins at 11amRide ends with food & raffle For More Information Call (937) 968-5605ucofd.com

June 16, 2012Leathernecks Nation MC Teddy Bear Poker Run3960 W Market Akron, OH Ride starts at 9am$15/rider $5/passenger100 mile ride ending with door prizes, food, 50/50 raffle, music & moreFor More Information Call (330) 571-7659

June 16, 2012 2nd Annual Hospice of Ashland County Poker Run400 East Lake Drive Ashland, OH$15 per rider or $25 doubleRegistration: 10amOpen to any vehicleFor More Information Call: George @ (419) 281-6001

June 16, 2012Honor Run 2012Cheviot EaglesCincinnati, OH$15/person or $25/ couple$10 just for after partyFor More Information Call: Irene @ (513) 661-1121



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June 16, 20121st Annual Story Ray Poker RunWet Spot BarCaledonia, OHFirst Bike Out @ 11, Last @ Noon$15/single $20/doubleFor More Information Call: Robin @ (740) 802-3733

June 16, 2012 9th Annual Poker RunVicario’s PizzaBellefontaine, OHRegister @ 10am Bikes Out @ Noon All Proceeds Benefit Cancer ResearchFor More Information Call: (937) 935-9456therideforacure.net

June 16, 2012Not Just Another Damn Run!Abate of OhioBristol InnBristolville, OH Register @ 11am First Bike Out @ Noon Bikes In @ 5pm$10/driver $5/passengerFor More Information Call: Ron @ (330) 272-2265

June 16, 2012Dutchtown Hatchery Festival Poker RunNew Washington American LegionNew Washington, OHSign in begins at 9am$25/rider $20/passenger$1,000 for best hand, $300 second best, $100 third, $100 worstnewwashingtonoh.com

June 16, 2012Bridges, Bikes & BluesPreble County Historical SocietyEaton, OHRegistration from 10:30am-12:15pm65+ mile run through scenic bridges ending with blues band, pie eating contests, cornhole contests, hot dog eating contests, vendors, bike show & more!For More Information Call (937) 787-4256pchs.preblecounty.com

June 16, 2012West Side Cats 1st Annual Poker Run & Bike ShowThe Covelli CentreYoungstown, OHRegistration starts at 10am$15/rider $5/passengerRide ends with Bike ShowBike Show entry $10 with 12 categoriesDoor Prizes, Raffles, Vendors, Entertainment, Etc.For More Information Call (330) 792-4228westsidecats.com

June 16, 20123rd Annual TJ Chumps Rally for AllyTJ ChumpsEnglewood, OHRegistration begins at 10am$15/rider $20/coupleAll proceeds benefit CuresearchFor More Information Call (937) 832-1946

June 17, 2012Hot Rod’s & Harley’s Father’s Day Car & Bike ShowPowder Keg Harley-DavidsonMason, OHRegistration from 9am-12pm$15/person12-4pm and over 30 trophies & prizes!For More Information Call (513) 204-6962

June 17, 2012Roses Rescue Poker RunCarlton Harley-DavidsonMantua, OH$15/rider $10/passengerFirst bike out at 10amFor More Information E-mail: [email protected]

June 17, 2012Warren H.O.G. Raffle Run to Benefit the Camelot Riding CenterWarren Harley-DavidsonCortland, OHSign Up at 10am$10/personMusic, Food, Chinese Auction & Tons of Fun!For More Information Call (330) 646-7230

June 18, 2012Ride Your Motorcycle To Work DayFree ridetowork.org

June 21, 20123rd Thursday Bash!Adventure Harley-DavidsonDover, OH 6pm-8pmFor More Information Call: (330) 364-6519

June 21, 2012New Bike Owner OrientationCentury Harley-DavidsonMedina, OH 5:30pm-6:30pmRSVP to [email protected] More Information Call: (330) 721-1702June 21, 2012Harleys and Hot RodsHarley-Davidson Sales & ServiceNapoleon, OH 6pm-9pmFor More Information Call: (419) 592-7123

June 22, 2012

23rd Annual Harley Ferrari Night!South East Harley-DavidsonBedford Heights, OH For More Information Call: (440) 439-5300

June 22-23, 2012Annual Cruise For A CureBenefitting Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer InstituteCentury Harley-DavidsonMedina, OH For More Information Call: (330) 721-1702

June 22, 2012Live Band! Sinister MidgetCrazy Fox SaloonBucyrus, OH 8-10pmFor More Information Call: (419) 562-1256

June 23, 20123rd Annual SSG Shannon M Smith No Fear Motorcycle Event & Scavenger HuntQuaker Steak & LubeColumbus, OHVFW 8736Sunbury, OH 9am-3pmssgsmithnofear.com

June 23, 20121st Annual Tickled Pink Breast Cancer Awareness RideHoltfield StationSign Up: 9:30 amFirst Bike Out: 11am/ Last In: 2:30pm$15/rider $10/passengerFor More Information Email: [email protected] by: Sons of Mayhem & Mystic Storm Sisterhood

June 23, 2012 Shriner HillBilly Cook-Off For KidsFrogTown USAIronton, OHFor More Information Call (740) 532-8337

June 23, 2012Marion Area Harley Rider’s Association Rodeo 20125228 Linn-Hipsher RdCaledonia,OHFree Admission!$20 Scavenger HuntFor More Information Call: Johnboy @ (740) 360-6936

June 23, 2012Huge Demo Day!Mad River Harley-DavidsonSandusky, OH Pre-Register by June 22 and be entered to win a $200 Gift CardFor More Info or to Pre-Register Call: (419) 502-2244

June 23, 2012Union VFW Post 5434 3rd Annual Poker RunUnion, OHRegistration at 9am$15/bike, $25/couple

June 23, 20125th Annual Red, White, & Chrome Poker RunBenefitting The American Red CrossAdventure Harley-DavidsonDover, OHRegistration: 9:30-11:30amBikes Out @ 11am Bikes In @ 3pmFor More Information Call: (330) 364-6519

June 23, 2012Warthogs M/C-Brook Park Chapter Poker RunMike’s Bar & GrillBerea, OHFirst Bike Out @ NoonLast Out @ 1:30pmEnd @ American Legion 610 Brookpark, OH$15/single or $20/double

June 23, 20124th Annual Hugmeister Memorial Poker RunVFW 8999Bucyrus, OHRegistration starts at 11am$10/rider $15/coupleDinner at the end of ride, prizes, entertainment, 50/50, etcProceeds benefit Crawford County Relay For LifeFor More Information Call (419) 563-8199

June 23, 2012Flanagan’s Pub Ride for the KidsFlanagan’s PubBlacklick, OHRegistration from 9:30am-11amFREE BREAKFAST - ride ends with prizes, 50/50 raffle, and moreProceeds benefit Earth Angel Foundation for terminally ill childrenFor More Information Call (614) 855-7472flanaganspub57.com

June 23, 2012poker run for kelly Toler medical Benefitloby’s Bar & grille (now hooks)Twinsburg, oh$20/rider $15/passengerride ends with auctions, raffles, music & morefor more information call (234) 380-0467

June 23, 2012Save the Twins Breast Cancer Awareness Ride


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Holtfield StationHillsboro, OHRegistration begins at 9:30amRide ends with 50/50 raffle, food, and moreAll proceeds go to Margo Babington for medical expenses.

June 24, 20124th Annual Cops RideStarts on : Lakeside RdCleveland, OH9am-3pm $20/personFor More Information Call: (440) 263-8121copsride.com

June 24, 2012Mulligan’s & MuttsMulligan’s PubAvon, OH2pm-5pmPoker Run Prior @ 10am ending @ Mulligan’sFor More Information Email: [email protected]

June 24, 20122nd Annual Rumble RunMeyer’s Lake BallroomCanton, OHFirst bike out at 10am$15/rider $25/coupleAwards for best hand & worst hand, chinese auction, door prizesBenefits Nathan Baker & Kids ‘n Kamp Cancer CharityFor More Information Call (330) 704-5471

June 27, 2012Work Stinks RideAdventure Harley-DavidsonDover, OH 12:30-2:30pmFor More Information Call: (330) 364-6519

June 28-30, 2012Ohio State Hog RallyDayton, OH For More Information Call: (419) 645-5522ohstatehogrally.comJune 28, 2012State H.O.G. Rally Cook-Out: Designated Ride to DealershipPowder Keg Harley-DavidsonMason, OHGrill out from 11am-4pmFor More Information Call (513) 204-6962

June 30, 20125th Annual Nicholas Poker RunCentury Harley-DavidsonMedina, OH11:30am$20 per personFor More Information Call: (330) 234-2683

or e-mail [email protected]

June 30, 2012Hog & Dog WashBenefitting the Tuscarawas County Humane SocietyAdventure Harley-DavidsonDover, OH 9am-4pmAdoptable Pets on Site!For More Information Call: (330) 364-6519

June 30, 2012Western Reserve Fish & Game “Shooters & Scooters”Niles, OHRegistration at 9:30amBikes out at 11am$20/rider $5/passengerwrfga.com

June 30, 20122nd Annual Columbus Chrome Divas Bike & Car WashQuaker Steak & LubeColumbus, OH $10/bike $15/car $20/truck 12pm-5pm

June 30, 2012Route 4 For The Troops Poker RunMad River Harley-DavidsonSandusky, OH $10/bikeAll Proceeds Benefit Wounded Warrior ProjectFor More Information Call: (419) 502-2244

June 30, 20121st Annual Hog RoastSponsored By TMAColumbus, OH$20 admissionFor More Info Call: Steve (614) 390-5977

June 30, 2012Hearts Desire Benefit and Poker RunHeights Banquet HallFremont, OH Registration @ 11am, Bikes in @ 5pm$15 admission includes dinnerBenefit 4pm-midnight ($5 donation)For More Information Call: Laurie @ (419) 680-8094June 30, 201223rd Annual Freedom RunJoe Carson Harley-DavidsonCarroll, OH 9:30am-2pm$20/rider, $25 w/ passengerjoecarsoncycles.com

June 30, 2012Bikers for the CureToledo Bass ProRossford, OHFirst bike out at 12pm143 mile ride with 5 stops ending in Holland. Pig roast, music,

dancing, auction, etc.Proceeds to NWO Affiliates of Susan G. Komen for the CureFor More Information Call (419) 724-2873 nwoladogs.com

June 30, 20122nd Annual Mike Malterer Memorial Dice RunAdventure Harley-DavidsonDover, OHRegistration starts at 11am$15/single $20/doubleRide ends with 50/50 drawing, bonfire, music & more!For More Information Call (330) 324-8162

July 7, 2012Ring Racing Bike Run & Motorcycle ShowWest Carrollton, OH 1:30pm$10/bike, $15/coupleVendors/Music

July 7, 2012Memorial Poker Run Veterans Fundraiser VFW Post 8312Beavercreek, OHDoor prizes, 50/50 raffles, live music & much moreFor More Information Call (937) 474-1004

July 8, 2012Madison Walker Toy RunSuffield Lion RunSuffield, OH 12pmFor More Information Call: (330) 699-2132Or E-mail [email protected] 11-15, 2012American Traveling Veteran Tribute & Traveling WallSeneca County FairgroundsTiffin, OH senecacountyforvets.comFor More Information Call: (419) 310-1422

July 13-15, 2012Babes Out on BikesNorth 127, Van Wert, OHFor More Information Call (419) 605-8934

July 14, 2012Demo Day!Adventure Harley-DavidsonDover, OH 10am - 3:30pm*Must Have Valid Endorsement, Helmet, & Long PantsFor More Information Call: (330) 364-6519

July 14, 2012 Thunderburg 20121 Main St.4:00pm-10:00pmBike show, live music, Steel Horse

Stunt Riders, and more!For More Information Call (937) 866-6138 Or (937) 344-1092thunderburg.com

July 14, 20126th Annual 179th AW/200th Family Readiness & Support Group Poker RunHale’s Harley-DavidsonMansfield, OHRegistration 10:30am$15/driver, $10/passengerFor More Information Call: (419) 651-3701 or (419) 606-4129

July 19-22, 2012Kentucky Bike RallyUnion County FairgroundsSturgis, KYkentuckybikerally.com

July 19, 20123rd Thursday Bash!Adventure Harley-DavidsonDover, OH 6pm-8pmFor More Information Call: (330) 364-6519

July 20-22, 2012Wauseon National Sixth Annual Vintage Flat Track RacingStarting 6pm Fridaywauseonnationalmeet.orgFor More Information Call: (419) 929-0291Or e-mail: [email protected]

July 20, 2012Bike Night at the BoneyardMayfield, OH 6pm-11pmRaffles, 50/50s, Poker Run, and much more!For More Information Call (870) 421-5579

July 21, 2012Asher Bash 7 Benefit Concert & Motorcycle Dice RunRoeder Racing & ServiceMonroeville, OH 9:30am-9pm$25/rider and $20/passenger (Ride and Concert)Benefit Concert Only: $10For More Information Call: (419) 465-2247

July 21, 20123rd Annual Shawn Wilkes Memorial Poker RunHickory Lake InnNewbury, OHRegistration @ 10:30am1st Bike Out: NoonAll Back: 5 pm$15/rider $25/coupleFor More Information Call: (440) 313-8803Or Email: [email protected]



K.I.S.S. page composed & edited by: Toni McCoy Shearon of Tennessee

DADDY’S FAVORITE....CREME BRULEE FRENCH TOAST1/2 Stick Unsalted Butter1 Cup of Brown Sugar2 Tbs. of Corn SyrupLoaf of Italian or French Bread (your preference)8 Eggs2 Cups of Half & Half1 tsp. Brandy1 tsp. Triple Sec1/4 tsp. Salt1 tsp. Vanilla ExtractMelt butter in saucepan. Mix in brown sugar & corn syrup. Stir until sugar is totally dissolved. In a sepa-rate small bowl whisk together the eggs, half & half,vanilla extract, triple sec, brandy & salt. Pour both mixtures into a shallow ceramic dish that you can saturate (4) pieces of 1-1/2 inch cut bread at a time. Get skillet hot on medium-high, melt in 2 pats of butter along with a couple dashes of quality olive oil (this helps with even carmelization). Coat your bread well on both sides and add to skillet. Flip when golden brown. Remove and spread generously with honey butter and warm maple syrup. Squirt on some whip cream to really dress it up. Now, this is the way to Daddy’s heart.

POP’S E-Z CREAMY HOT BOW-TIE PASTA 1 Small Box of Large Bow-Tie Pasta - cooked; re-serve 1/4 cup of pasta water 1 Roll of Sausage - Mild or Hot; your choice1 Small Bag of Frozen Peas1 Small Vidalia Onion; sliced paper thin2 Tubs of Philadelphia Italian Cheese & Herb Cooking Creme’ After you fry off your sausage and onion; drain cast iron skillet, but leave just a coating of oil in skillet. Add remainder of ingredients and then add 1 Tub of Philly Cooking Creme, along with 1/4 pasta water, if everything is coated to your liking, then skip adding the 2nd tub. It’s all a matter of taste. Serve with hot, French bread sticks. This is some good eatin’ and it’s so easy to prepare.

“THE OLD MAN’S” FAVORITE SIMPLY SWEET STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE5 Cups of Sliced Fresh Strawberries1/2 Cup Sugar or Splenda1/2 Cup Orange Juice1 Roll of Grand’s Buttermilk BiscuitsCombine strawberries, sugar and orange juice and just let marinade. Squish up with a potatoe masher just a bit to create more of a thicker mix-ture. Cook your biscuits and when you pull them from oven, sprinkle all over with coarse, large sugar crystals for a sweetbread type of flavor. Butter the inside of your biskits with honey butter and load them up with strawberries and place the tops on. Whisk together 2 cups of heavy whipping cream , 1/4 cup of confectioner’s sugar and 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract for homemade whip cream and put giant dollops on top of biscuits. Make sure you get lots of juice on the insides of biscuits. Serve hot and fresh. Totally yummy!

FATHER’S PREFERRED FLIPPED-FLOPPED UPSIDE DOWN BACON PANCAKE10 Bacon Strips; Coarsely Chopped1/4 Packed of Brown Sugar2 Cups of Complete Buttermilk Pancake Mix1-1/2 Cups WaterMaple Syrup & Melted Butter; combinedCook bacon the easy way. Place bacon strips on a rack pan in a 475 degree oven for 15 minutes until super crispy. Remove to paper towels and sprinkle with brown sugar. Combine pancake mix and water just until moistened. Pour into pre-heated cast iron skillet. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes. Invert onto a plate warmed in the oven. Melt your butter down and mix it into your maple syrup. The brown sugar bacon goes so good with the sweet pancake; good contrast. Any man will totally love this giant pancake.

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY AND REMEMBER TO PASS ON TO YOUR SONS & DAUGHTERS YOUR PASSION OF BEING A BIKER. RESPECT THE RIDE.



12 YEAR Old SCOTCHAn old, well traveled biker sits in a bar watching as a haughty young man comes in and orders a shot of 12 year old scotch. The bar tender is irritated and gives him a shot of bar scotch. The man takes a sip and spits the drink out and demands a shot of 12 year old scotch. The bar tender decides to fuck with the man and gives him a shot of 6 year old scotch. He takes a sip and spits it out again and exclaims, “that’s 6 year old scotch, I said I wanted 12 year old scotch!” The bar tender smiles and pours a shot of 9 year old scotch. The man takes a sip and, again, spits it out, exclaiming ,angrily, “I said 12 year old scotch!” The bar tender decides that the man does, indeed, know his scotch and pours him his shot of 12 year old scotch. He sips it once, then sips it again, and says, “ Now that is 12 year old scotch !” The old biker slides up to the young man with a glass of liquid and says to him “Here, taste this”! The young man takes a swig and immediately spits it out and says “It tastes like piss”! “Yeah”, says the old biker,”It’s mine, How old am I”?

BIkER CHIlI A duded-up city rider walks into a seedy tavern in Sturgis, Sd. He sits at the bar and notices a grizzled old biker with his arms folded, staring blankly at a full bowl of chili.

After fifteen minutes of just sitting there staring at it, the newby rider bravely asks the old biker, ‘If you ain’t gonna eat that, mind if I do?’

The old veteran of a thousand rides slowly turns his head toward the young pup and says, ‘Nah, you go ahead.’

Eagerly, the guy wearing the shiny new leather fashions reaches over and slides the bowl into his place and starts spooning it in with delight. He gets nearly down to the bottom of the bowl and notices a dead mouse in the chilli. The sight was very shocking and he immediately barfed up the chili back into the bowl.

The old biker quietly says, ‘Yep, that’s as far as I got, too.’



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