Thunder Roads Michigan April 2011

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SPRING IS FINALLY HERE!

Yes folks, birds are singing, love is in the air, and that tire you squeezed an extra 500mi on last fall

is balder than Hoggie’s head!No, forget it... you can’t squeeze another 200mi out of it!

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with beer money left in your pocket!

SERVICE & TRUST FOR 22 YEARS

The Diamond P Chopper is Now Available for Public Viewing for

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2 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011

EVENT

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITH-OUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OCCUPIED BY THE ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LIABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PERSON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND CLAIMS MADE BY AD-VERTISERS 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.

Letter from the Editor...……….………………………..659th Annual Autorama...............................................8ABATE……..………………………..………………10I Hope I Honored Him..............................................12Veterans Corner…........................………..…………14Flying Old Glory........................……………..…..…..18Alcohol Poisoning Part II……………............………..22Jokers Wild……...................…………………………26Young Remarks ~ Staying Moisturized at 60mph…30Pieces of My Heart Book Review……................…..31Jodi’s Bling...............................................................32ThunderCam.............................................…………36Calendar..................................................................37Stingers Toys for Tots.......….............................…….38Readers Ride Wendell Turner..................................40Grampa Lug………...............................................…42MV Augusta…............................................…………46ThunderCam............................................................50Tech Tips / Do It Yourself…....................................…54Thunder Roads Event Calendar.…...………………56Dream Weaver in the Wind…….............................…60Biker Friendly Directory.…………….....................…62Bike Nights………………......................................…64Biking with a Passenger…....................................…66

On the Cover

Jodi’s Bling owned By Jodi Johnsoni

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Mt. Pleasant • MI 48858989-772-5513

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FUll SErVICE rEPaIr HarlEY-DaVIDSON & amErICaN V-tWINS

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APRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 5

ThuNdEr roads MaGaZINE of MIchIGaN P.O.Box 56, Oscoda, MI 48750

Office: 989-861-0682 • Fax: 877-733-5161Cell: 989-906-2151/989-906-2155

E-MAIL: [email protected]

STATE OwnErS / EdiTOrSJoe & Pam Brinn

LAyOuT And dESignBarbara L. Garner / Thunder Publishing

AdVErTiSing SALES / diSTriBuTiOnPort Huron / Mt Clemens & Surrounding Areas

Tom & Dawn Burg 810-533-9246Lansing / Jackson / BC / gr and Surrounding Areas

Kirk & Jean Quenby • Regional Sales Managers 517-763-8408 / 517-763-8118 / [email protected]

suB-Reps - Cindy Cole / [email protected] Loreen Wickens / [email protected]

Kamie & Shane Burnside / [email protected] / Clarkston and Surrounding Areas

Kent “Pooch” Copenhaver [email protected]

Muskegon and Surrounding AreasGary Bredeweg 616-437-6972 / [email protected]

Flint / Lapeer / Oxford / Shelby Area“Tim T” 248-840-2205 / [email protected]

Bay City / Saginaw/ Midland / Mt. PleasantTim Ostrander 989-686-3406 / [email protected]

Milan/ rockwood/ Monroe/ Lambertville/ dundee Sandra Wood 734-334-0493 / [email protected]

Plymouth / novi / dearborn / Livonia / Brighton AreasDebra Wright 313-218-5224 / [email protected]

COnTriBuTing wriTErS & PHOTOgrAPHErSVince Piacenti, Jodi Johnson, Shelly Horan, Debra Wright, Grandpa Lug,

Gary Westphalen, Princess of Chrome Angels, Jill Young, Tim T, Tim Ostrander, Treeman, Joe & Pam BrinnAddiTOnAL MOdEL PHOTOgrAPHy

Photograf/x by Dusty AustinFt. Walton Bch, FL 850-243-9262 / www.dustyaustin.com

This magazine is dedicated to the loving memory of my sister Sharon, who passed away from cancer.

National Founders Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon

1528 Matlock Drive / Chapmansboro, TN 37035Thunder Publishing, LLC Offices: 615-792-0040

e-mail:[email protected]

If you arE rEadING ThIs then you already saw that we are 72 pages this issue. Lots of great articles and features in this is-sue. We also began our Woman Rider Section for all you lady riders (and for the men who like to see what the women are up to) in this issue. Also be sure to check out the article “I Hope I honored Him” and I hope you can keep a dry eye after reading it. Yes you know we must be at or near the riding season now that you see all the bike night ads and biker events that are throughout this issue. As I write this letter from the Ed there is still 8 inches of snow on the ground but the weather man has predicted temps in the forties and fifties so I sure got the itch to ride and I know the rest of you (at least those who did not go to Daytona that is) are chomping at the bit to get out there and ride too. Remember that as we venture out onto the highways, our four wheeled friends have not seem much of us this past 6 months (geez this winter feels more like a year long to me) and many may have forgotten all about us so stay focused, keep alert and ride safe. I was a helicopter pilot in the military so I ride my bike like I use to fly, always vigilant to where that next problem might come from and keeping my mind on the what if’s so I know how to react to a situation if it ever comes up. What do I mean by this? When I approach an intersection, I always look to see what if that guy doesn’t stop at the light or stop sign and if so what am I going to do if he just plows ahead on through and into my path? I look around and try to plan on where I can go and approximately what I may need to do to lessen the chances of my being hit by him or causing me to veer into another car. I plan for that possible accident in my head. Nothing too detailed, just looking for that escape route and thinking to myself: What If? So I know what actions I might do ahead of time. Ok so maybe I am overreacting a bit but it has saved me a number of times, both while flying choppers and while riding my bike. It can’t hurt and just might help. It’s your decision.

As always please patronize our advertisers. It is because of them that we can bring you this mag free each month. Be sure to tell them you saw their ad in Thunder Roads Michigan.

Thank you.Remember,

WHERE THERE’S BIKES…THERE’S GOING TO BE THUNDER!

Keep safe, Keep riding and Keep the wind in your face.God Bless our Troops and God Bless America.

Joe & Pam


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Saturday, May 28 - 2011— RAIN OR SHINE —

The Inn Between Saloonat

D A N C I N G • 5 0 / 5 0 R A F F L E • P R I Z E R A F F L E SAPRIL 2011 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 7

59th Annual Autorama 2011The 59th Annual Autorama a 3-day show that is now more than just automobiles, it features lots of great bikes and everything in between all on two levels of fun. The main level of Cobo Hall in Detroit features a lot of Classic auto’s, trucks, hot rods, and semi’s and now more motorcycles than ever before.From high dollar rigs to those that are just totally ratted out, you could find it all here on display. And amongst all of these high profile vehicles were nestled mo-torcycles of all makes and models including Suzuki, Harley Davidson, Yamaha, and more just to name a few.Ricks Customs had two sweet bikes on display, also Shaggy’s Radicals had his cruiser B-17 replica, Outkast Customs had their Dragon Bike which was featured on the 2010 October cover. Also on display were Jody’s Green Ambition which was featured on the January cover and the Bud Light sport bike which are all part of Reflections Polishing’s display. Detroit Choppers had three motorcycles on dis-

play featuring custom paint, seats made from stingray and alligator, all chromed out and tires ranging from 24 to 26 inches for a unique look. Dew Drop Trailers showed off their custom made fiberglass trailers for trikes. The list is too long to list all of the bikes and bike owners who had a display here at this show. You just had to be here to see them all. Leaving this main level after more than three hours of checking as much as I could, I decided to meander to the lower level and check out the rest of the show.

By Debra Wright


As we were going down the escalator, you heard music playing as live bands, Elvis impersonators and a DJ kept you entertained throughout the area. This lower lever was a splash with even more motorcycles, rat rods, vintage model cars and a variety of mini-bikes, some of the later with some pretty unique special features. Zachary LaBlanc had a sweet 3.5 HP ride with flamethrowers off the back called ‘The Finkster’. He also was giving away signed autographs to his fans, way to go Zach!Good weekend weather and with many of the schools on winter break, this show made for a complete family adventure. There were even special guests on hand at the Celebrity Stage for meet and greets including Billy the Exterminator, Jersey Shore’s Sammy Sweetheart, WWE Wrestling Superstar Shawn Michaels and the Deadliest Catch TV star Jonathan Hillstrand. There were several other celebrities on hand as well. There was a Toy-a-Rama and many awards given out.As for the whole show if you had a question, comment or just wanted to chat, the owners of the bikes, cars and trucks were right there to answer as well as swap stories with you. It always seemed as I talked to so many of the owners that we would find a common experience that allowed us to relate with one another. There is a lot of work, time, money, and pride that went into all these machines. You were able to wit-ness as their dreams came trueYou seen dreams come true and all was enjoying showing what they had as a finished product. Thank you to all the par-ticipants that came and spent the whole weekend at the show and their friendliness to all ages. It was a great 3-day show.


It’s tune-up time!

Ok, you are going to read a lot of articles these next couple of months about tuning up your bikes: fresh plugs, fresh gas, change the oil. Since those subjects will be adequately covered, and since I as always strive to be different and controversial, I will talk about a different kind of tune-up: one for your freedom.

There are though a lot of similarities to an engine tune-up. For instance, you change your plugs to get more spark, right? Well, we changed plugs in Lansing: we have a whole bunch of new legislators.

But you all know that spark plugs have to be supplied with high voltage; otherwise they won’t do what you want them to. Simple physics. So you need good plug wires to transmit the voltage. What is the legislative equivalent of spark-plug wires? You.

That’s right; you are responsible for transmitting your wishes to your elected officials. Doesn’t matter how much

power the battery (in our cases that is our heart) has. Doesn’t matter how good your ignition coil (your brain) is. It is all lost if you don’t have good plug wires. Just as plug wires are the conduit from the coils to the plugs, you are the conduit to Lansing. So it does not matter how much you believe in something (or how much you are against something) if you don’t speak up.

The reason I am bringing this up is to remind you to verify with your representatives how they stand on the issues that are important to you. Not just on the helmet law, and not just on motorcycling issues, but on all issues that are important to you.

OK, so after you change your oil, change your attitude and make that call to your Senator and House Representative. If you already have done so, then I want to thank you for getting involved.

An update on the Awareness Program that is being revived in Oakland County. Jerry Makkonen and Dean Smith got the MSF grant that they applied for, which will offset some of the costs of this program. I want to thank them for all their efforts in keeping us safe. They will be looking for some volunteers to help spread the word in Driver’s Ed schools and high schools. Although they are involved in Oakland County, you can help out no matter where you live because almost all ABATE regions around Michigan have a good Awareness program. Hopefully you can spare a little time to volunteer for this.

Concerning motorcycle training: the Experienced Rider course is being upgraded to the Advanced Rider Course. This will teach you not only defensive riding techniques but also how to get more out of your bike. We’ll publish more detailed info as it becomes available.

A couple of quick reminders: The 35th Annual ABATE Field Meet will be held June 17 – 19 at the Hell Creek Ranch in Hell. Michigan. Also don’t forget our Freedom Rally in Lansing on June 8.

Last but not least, buy a Bike Raffle ticket; you can win a brand-new Harley for only $10 a chance and do something for your freedom.

Here is how to get in touch with us:

1. Call the state office at 248 685-9150

2. Log on to our Website: www.abateofmichigan.org

3. Visit a local ABATE meeting (log onto the Website for the nearest location)

Vince PiacentiBoard of DirectorsABATE of Michigan

ABATE OF MICHIGAN


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I Hope I Honored Him.READ THIS FIRST!!!!!I just moved in the area about a month ago. I was feeling pretty lonely and something was just...missing...why not get a dog?? I went to the local shelter which was very clean and had big roomy cages for the dogs. The shelter said that I seemed like a lab-type which I didn’t understand, but I guess they know what they are talking about. They took me to this black lab that looked like the perfect dog at a glance, well behaved and obviously in good shape.

As I was leaving with the dog, they informed me that his name is Reggie, and handed me a box full of his belongings.

When we got home, Reggie was still very well behaved...almost too well behaved. The better word might be bored. He just glared at me every time I tried to hype him up to play. There’s no way he was this way with his previous owner. I looked in his box of belongings for a toy and there was a new container of tennis balls in there. I grabbed one, and tossed it his way. He just watched it roll by his face while he laid on the floor with his head on his front paws.

A week went by and Reggie still showed no activity, but the shelter said to give him two weeks and he should warm up to me. So far, it wasn’t looking so good.

By the end of the second week, Reggie at least started to nudge the tennis ball, so I spread all the tennis balls around the house to give him something to do, but he still wasn’t warming up to me. I decided to call the shelter to let them know it just wasn’t working out, and as I dialed the last number to the shelter, I glanced in the box and saw an envelope. I hung up the phone and grabbed the envelope and opened it finding a letter written by his previous owner...

I folded the letter and slipped it back in the envelope. Sure I had heard of Paul Mallory, everyone in town knew him, even new people like me. Local kid, killed in Iraq a few months ago and posthumously earning the Silver Star when he gave his life to save three buddies. Flags had been at half-mast all summer.

I looked at that lab that day and had a totally different respect for him. He was glaring at me as usual, but when I whispered “Hey Tank...” he was on all fours, tail wagging frantically and completely alert. I grabbed a tennis ball that was next to me and said, “...ya want this tennis ball? Huh boy?” You could tell he wanted to run, so I tossed the ball in the next room. He ran passed me, almost knocking me down to get to the ball.

When he came back, he had 3 tennis balls in his mouth.


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Frank Buckles, Last Known u.S. doughboy, diesAdvocated for National World War I Memorial in D.C.WASHINGTON – Frank Woodruff Buckles, who lied about his age to enlist in the Army in 1917 and became the last known U.S. veteran of World War I, died on February 27, 2011 at the age of 110.“We have lost a living link to an important era in our nation’s history,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “But we have also lost a man of quiet dignity, who dedicated his final years to ensuring the sacrifices of his fellow ‘Doughboys’ are appropriately commemorated.”Burial with full military honors will be held at Arlington National Cemetery. Details about the funeral are expected to be released soon.A long-time resident of Charles Town, West Virginia, where he had a farm, Buckles was born in Bethany, Missouri. He enlisted shortly after his 16th birthday and served in France and Germany.At the start of World War II, he was a civilian working with a steamship company in the Philippines. He was imprisoned in a Japanese prisoner of war camp for three and a half years.In his later years, Buckles became an advocate for the expansion of a little-known memorial to World War I Veterans from the District of Columbia into a national memorial.More than 4,700,000 Americans served in the military during World War I. About 53,000 died of combat-related causes, while another 63,000 deaths were listed as non-combat.

VA Honors Military women of Past, PresentVA Celebrates Women’s History MonthWASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs joins with the nation to observe Women’s History Month in March by recognizing and honoring women Veterans.“Duty. Honor. Pride. These words reflect the spirit of generations of American women who have sought to defend the rights and freedom of others,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “The history of women in the armed forces began more than 220 years ago with women who served during the American Revolution and continues through the present day. VA is honored to serve these women who have contributed so much to our Nation.”Women Veterans are one of the fastest growing segments of the Veteran population. Of the 22.7 million living Veterans, more than 1.8 million are women. They comprise nearly 8 percent of the total Veteran population and 6 percent of all Veterans who use VA health care services.VA estimates women Veterans will constitute 10 percent of the Veteran population by 2020 and 9.5 percent of VA patients. In recent years, VA has undertaken a number of initiatives to create or enhance services for women Veterans, including the

VETERANS CORNER

implementation of comprehensive primary care throughout the nation; staffing every VA medical center with a women veterans program manager and regional offices with a designated woman Veterans coordinator; supporting a multifaceted research program on women’s health; improving communication and outreach to women Veterans; and continuing the operation of offices like the Center for Women Veterans and the Women Veterans Health Strategic Healthcare Care Group.“During this observance of Women’s History Month, let’s remember the special contributions of the ever-increasing number of women serving in the armed forces,” said Tammy Duckworth, assistant secretary for public and intergovernmental affairs. She noted that women currently make up more than 14 percent of the active-duty military and 18 percent of the Guard and Reserves. VA has 43 women’s memorials and monuments at its National Cemeteries across the country. Additionally, several notable women are buried in VA National Cemeteries, including Chief Specialist Evelyn B. (Ulrich) Einfeldt, a Navy World War II Veteran who was one of the 67 Navy “WAVES” involved in Operation Magic. She assisted with the assembly of BOMBE (Enigma), a machine to decode German and Japanese transmissions. She was laid to rest at the Fort Sill National Cemetery on April 6, 2006. For more information about VA programs and services for women Veterans, please visit: www.va.gov/womenvet and www.publichealth.va.gov/womenshealth

in closing, let me invite you to send in your comments and or questions about the Veteran’s Corner to me at [email protected] Brinn, State Owner/EditorUS Army CW3 Retired Vietnam Vet / 7/17th Air CalvaryRuthless RidersGOD BLESS OUR TROOPS

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Bikers are an incredibly patriotic crowd. I often see the U.S. flag gracing the rear of motorcycles as

we ride around… bringing a lump to my throat at the display of such pride. For those thinking about adding flags to your bike, consider this… there is a protocol for displaying this patriotic symbol. While it’s

not specifically addressed in the U.S Code, as it is when dealing with an automobile, you can read between the lines to determine how the flag should be flown on the back of your ride.

When the United States flag is flown alone on your motorcycle, flag etiquette calls for it to be either centered on the

bike or mounted to its “marching right”; its own right as the vehicle is moving forward (which would be the right side of the motorcycle to the rider’s perspective when sitting astride).

If the U.S. flag is displayed on your bike with another flag of any type, it should be positioned to its “marching right;” that is, to the rider’s right sitting on the motorcycle. When the U.S. flag is on your bike with other non-national flags (POW/MIA, service banners, fraternal flags, etc.), the U.S. flag is placed at the center and at the highest point of the group. According to the United States Flag Code, NO flag should ever be larger or displayed higher than the U.S. flag. If the U.S. flag is displayed on your bike with those of any other nation, the flags should be approximately equal in size and flown from separate staffs of the same height, with the U.S. flag to the marching right and other countries’ flags arranged to the left in alphabetical order in English. International usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of peace. The order of precedence for flags generally is nations first, states (host state first, then others in the order of admission) districts and territories (Washington DC, Puerto Rico, etc.), military (in order of establishment: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force), then any others.

Also noteworthy, when the American flag is painted on the side of a motorcycle or other vehicle, the custom is that the stars face toward the front of the vehicle, regardless of which side the flag is on (giving the impression that the flag is flying in the wind as the vehicle moves forward). The flag of the United States of America represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing. Proper display reflects pride in country and respect for your motorcycle!

Taking this one step further, there are also proper procedures for disposing of U.S. flags when they are old, torn, worn, or dirty. The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.

Most American Legion Posts regularly conduct a dignified flag burning ceremony, often on Flag Day, June 14th. Many Cub Scout Packs, Boy Scout Troops, and Girl Scout Troops retire flags regularly as well. Contact your local American Legion Hall or Scout Troop to inquire about the availability of this service.

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By Gary WestphalenIt has happened to one of my bikes. It has happened to one of

Donna’s bikes. It may well have happened to yours. We fed them alcohol, and it made them sick.

It sounds like a great plan, at first glance. By converting corn and other crops grown on American soil into ethanol, we can reduce our dependence on foreign oil. This alcohol is currently blended into most of the gasoline we buy. Regulations enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) state that each gallon of gasoline may consist of up to ten percent ethanol. Simple math suggests a corresponding savings of ten percent of our fossil fuel supply, along with a similar reduction of imported oil. Who could argue with that?

But alcohol is not gasoline, and many of its properties are downright detrimental to the operation of your motorcycle, and the longevity of its parts. Thunder Roads West Virginia first examined this issue in a series of reports last fall. In our October and November, 2009 issues (see Passing Gas Parts I and II) we uncovered the dark side of this clear distillate. There are five main points that make ethanol just plain unsuitable for most bikes.

Gallon-for-gallon, ethanol produces about a third less energy than gasoline. With a ten percent blend of ethanol, that means you will see a decrease in your engine’s power of about three to six percent, along with a corresponding decrease in mileage. If you’re driving a gas hog cage that only gets ten or twelve miles per gallon, you probably won’t take much note of the loss. But in a bike, where the difference can be quite obvious, you could lose as much as 20 or 30 miles from every tank of gas.

Ethanol has a lower flash point, which means it explodes at a

lower temperature than gasoline, yet it burns hotter. Inside your engine, this combination can lead to premature detonation – engine knock – which robs power and harms engine components. In our April, 2010 issue (see The $1,000 Fill-Up, on page 24) we brought you the story of a bike that had its head gaskets burned away. The service technician who rebuilt the engine attributed this to excessive heat in the cylinders, probably caused by ethanol blended gasoline.

The shelf life of gasoline blended with ethanol is questionable. While the American Petroleum Institute says ethanol does not affect the longevity of a properly stored tank of fuel, most other knowledgeable sources disagree. The American Automobile Association, which has done extensive testing related to this subject, refers to ethanol blended gasoline as a “temperamental product.” Others believe that an ethanol blended tank of gas remains viable for no more than 90 to 100 days after the mixture was first blended.

Ethanol is a powerful solvent. It can loosen rust and other contaminants that might otherwise lie undisturbed in your fuel system. It is able to dissolve rubber hoses, seals, plastics, and resins. Over time, ethanol can even eat away at soft metals like brass and aluminum. All of this dissolved material must then be pushed through your engine.

Finally, the worst behavior that ethanol brings to into your gas tank is its hygroscopic property, meaning it attracts water. In fact, ethanol would actually prefer to blend with water. When enough moisture has been drawn into the ethanol/gasoline blend, the ethanol will actually surrender its chemical bond with the gasoline, in favor of the water. Then, the alcohol and water mixture drops out of suspension with the gasoline, and sinks to the bottom of your fuel tank. This is a process called phase separation. When the alcohol and water mixture is pumped into your engine,

Alcohol Poisoning – What Ethanol is doing to your bike

the epa is proposing this label for e15 pumps. a skull and crossbones might

be more appropriate.

you will experience hard starting, a significant loss of power, and engine misfires. That’s assuming you can even get it to start in the first place. Additionally, since the ethanol provides about three rating points worth of octane, the remaining gasoline will be well below the octane rating your engine needs.*

Up until October 13th of this year, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had allowed gasoline distributors to blend no more than ten percent alcohol, by volume, into the fuel supply. That’s the highest concentration of alcohol approved by any motorcycle manufacturer for use in bikes. But, under pressure from ethanol industry groups, such as an organization called Growth Energy, the EPA has changed its rules. Growth Energy and 54 ethanol manufacturers petitioned the EPA to allow for a blend of 15 percent ethanol, or E15 as it is called. The petition was submitted under the Clean Air Act, which says the petitioner must show that the altered fuel “will not cause or contribute to the failure of an emission control system to achieve compliance with the emission standards to which it has been certified over its useful life.” The act makes no mention of protecting engines from damage, nor does it address loss of performance, fuel shelf life, or the solvent and hygroscopic issues related to ethanol.

The EPA partially agreed with the petition, issuing a waiver of its regulations to allow for E15 to be sold for use in cars, light-duty trucks, and SUV’s from the model year 2007 and newer. However, the EPA has withheld approval of E15 fuel for cars from the model years 2001 through 2006, pending further testing, and does not plan to approve it for use in older cars, heavy duty vehicles, motorcycles, and off-road motors such as lawn mowers.

The problem is, while E15 fuel is to be clearly labeled and dispensed as such, that dispensing is going to be happening at the same pump islands you use to fill your bike. The first gas station to sell the high-ethanol blend was in Vinton, Iowa. Within a couple weeks of the rule change, E15 was being offered at the very same pump as all other grades of gasoline. Although it is pumped through a separate hose, E15 is selected in the same row of buttons as every other grade of gas. An uninformed biker could easily opt for this cheaper blend, without realizing the risks being taken.

The federal ruling prohibits the sale of E15 for use in bikes, and there are stiff penalties involved. A retailer that allows E15 fuel to be pumped into a vehicle not approved for its use can face a

$25-thousand fine, and the consumer could be fined up to $2,500 for a single incident, although the enforcement mechanism in unclear.

The full text of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announcement regarding the approval of E15 gasoline is available on our website at www.thunderroadswv.com.

But, even if the new E15 gasoline never comes near your bike, the problems presented by the ten percent ethanol blend remain. “This year we’ve seen more poor running conditions with fuel injected bikes than we’ve ever seen,” says Chuck Wiseman of JT Cycle and Hoodlum Garage, in Beckley. Chuck thinks the short time frame in which ethanol-blended fuel remains viable is the biggest problem his customers are facing. “A lot of our riders are weekends only, and sometimes the bike might sit for two or three weeks. I’m thinking that’s probably where the majority of it

came from. We did find bad fuel in lots of them, and the customer is like, ‘How can that be? The bike has only sat for a few weeks.’” Additionally, Chuck has found numerous bikes this year with plugged gas cap vents, which he also attributes to the presence of ethanol.

So, what can you do to protect your bike’s engine from ethanol damage? There are a few things.

First and foremost, make sure you buy good gasoline. There are still a few gas stations around selling gasoline that is not blended with ethanol. If you can find a station selling ethanol-free gasoline, patronize it religiously.

Ideally, the ethanol-blend you are probably going to have to settle for is reasonably fresh, since the lifespan of blended gas is questionable. It should also be the proper octane rating for your motorcycle engine. Consult your service tech or bike’s manual for the answer, but I’m betting your tech will tell you to run premium. Since ethanol accounts for about three of the octane rating points, the more octane the actual gasoline brings to the equation, the better.

Buy your gasoline from stations that pump the three different grades of gasoline through three different hoses. Odds are that the guy in front of you pumped the cheap stuff into his minivan. So, when you roll in and hit the Hi-Test button, those first few slurps your bike gets won’t be the top shelf juice you’re paying for. How much low-grade you get depends on the delivery system employed at that station.

I like this one: Don’t let the gas sit in your tank for very long. This is a good thing. The only way to keep a healthy turnover rate in that tank is to ride, ride, ride.

Those are all fairly common sense suggestions. They help, to a certain extent. But, even if you follow those suggestions, you may still have problems. Ethanol and water can still lead to phase separation, for example. Or, you can still end up with a tank of old gas.

The only other option is the use of a fuel additive. Some bikers swear by them, and others swear at them. There are very real reasons why some fuel additives will only make your ethanol problems worse. That’s the easy part. This issue gets trickier when you look at some additives that just might be what the doctor ordered. Are they salvation, or snake oil? Thunder Roads West Virginia will examine the subject of fuel additives in part two of Alcohol Poisoning in our January, 2011 issue.

If you can find a filling station with a banner like this, patronize it.

6 ThUnder roads® WesT VIrGInIa deCeMBer 2010 deCeMBer 2010 ThUnder roads® WesT VIrGInIa 7www.thunderroadswv.com

The practice of distilling corn into a clear, highly volatile alcohol may have quite a rich history in the Mountain State, but the plain fact is: your motorcycle engine doesn’t like moonshine. Yet, every time you roll into a gas station as much as ten percent of the fuel you pump into its tank is chemically identical to very pure shine. I’m talking about ethanol.

In last month’s issue of Thunder Roads Colorado (see Alcohol Poisoning, What Ethanol is Doing To Your Bike on page 16), we explored the properties of etha-nol that make it hazardous to the longevity of your bike’s engine. To summarize, ethanol-blended gasoline produces less useable energy, doesn’t last as long in your tank, is destructive to rubber and metal components of your fuel delivery system, and likes to absorb water. If enough water is present, the ethanol will abandon its relationship with the gasoline in favor of the water, and the water-ethanol combination will separate from the gasoline, dropping to the bottom of your gas tank.

Once that happens, you have a mess on your hands. Your bike may miss and sputter, fail to start, or even suffer major engine damage. Obviously, preventive measures make a lot more sense than having to deal with these effects of an alcohol hangover in your motor. The problem is that there really aren’t a lot of things you can do.

The best protection is to buy high quality gasoline at a station you can trust. The ideal station is one that touts ethanol-free gasoline. If you can find one of these, go there to fill your bike every chance you get. One of the big knocks on ethanol-blended fuels is that they don’t have a long life span. If you ride your bike infrequently, this can become a real issue. It’s not uncommon for ethanol-water phase separation to happen within as little as a few weeks after you fill the tank. Frequent turnover of the gas in your tank not only means that you’re getting in a lot of riding, but helps avoid the issues of aging ethanol.

Buy a high octane grade of fuel. The ethanol added to gasoline accounts for about 3 octane rating points. Since ethanol doesn’t have as much stored energy (and doesn’t deliver what it does have as efficiently as gasoline does in a mo-torcycle engine) discounting it from your calculations is a prudent step. Figure that 92 octane-blended gas you’re buying is really good for an octane rating of about 89, and you’ll be riding on the safe side.

When buying your gas, there is a new threat to watch for. As detailed in last month’s article, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued new rules allowing for the sale of E15 gasoline for use in 4-wheel vehicles from the model year 2007 and newer. E15 is not approved for, and is actually illegal to use, in older cars and all motorcycles. Even the EPA says E15 will flat-out destroy your bike’s motor.

The use of fuel additives is really the only other option out there, and the debate about their value is a raging dispute. Additives have been called ev-erything from a magic bullet to snake oil. Depending upon the make-up of the additive, both descriptions may have merit.

“I strongly urge you to look at the ingredients (MSDS) to determine exactly what the additive is capable of doing,” says Gail Macri of Fuel Testers, a company that sells kits for performing field testing of ethanol-blended gasoline. Macri adds, “The ‘claims’ by most gas additive companies about their products are exaggerated, misleading at best, and more often, simply false information.”

The MSDS Macri refers to is the Material Safety Data Sheet. The Federal Occu-pational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that an MSDS must be available to anyone who works with hazardous chemicals. The MSDS isn’t really a consumer-oriented document, but it does contain the ingredients listing for most commercially available chemical products. By reading the MSDS for any given fuel additive, you can find out what’s inside the bottle.

That’s important information, because many fuel additives are alcohol-based products, and will only make your ethanol problems even worse. The idea be-hind these products is that they will boost the octane rating of the fuel in your tank at the same time they absorb excess water. But adding more alcohol on top of the ethanol already in your fuel mixture isn’t going to fix things. Yes, you’re raising the octane rating, but you’re doing so by adding more ethanol, not more gasoline. Since we know that ethanol burns differently than gasoline, we also know that the extra punch this added alcohol provides isn’t happening at the opportune moment in the combustion cycle. It’s energy that results in added heat without added power. While an alcohol-based additive may help absorb a little more moisture, remember that the alcohol doesn’t get rid of the water, it just combines with it. That may keep the water molecules in suspension, but they still have to go through your engine.

In fact, an alcohol-based additive is actually harmful for your engine. All of the major motorcycle manufacturers say their machines are not to be used with fuel containing more than 10% ethanol. Since there is already that much alcohol in the fuel you buy, adding more may bring the mix in your tank above the recom-mended limit. The bottom line regarding the use of alcohol-based fuel additives is simply this: Don’t do it.

Which brings us to a different set of additives that may provide some measure of help with some of the troublesome aspects of ethanol-blended gasoline. If

By Gary Westphalen Thunder Roads WV

The shelves at your local auto parts storeare full of fuel treatments. Some of themare harmful to your bike’s en-gine, and willonly worsen your etha-

nol problems. Knowwhat you’re putting in your tank.

II


continued from page 27

that sounds like a hedged bet, it is. No additive even tries to make the claim that it resolves all of the issues presented by ethanol. But the class of additives that may prove helpful use a base of Naphtha, instead of alcohol. Naphtha is the lightest form of gasoline, often referred to as white gas. Those gallon cans of fuel you buy for your lanterns and camp stoves are filled with pure naphtha. Since Naphtha is a form of gasoline, it doesn’t share ethanol’s propensity to unblend. But the amount of Naphtha being added to your tank is so small that it doesn’t improve the fuel, it just doesn’t worsen it like an alcohol-based additive does. What’s important is what’s being carried into your tank by that Naphtha.

In many cases, the active ingredient is an emulsi-fier, such as a detergent. (This is going to get a bit like a chemistry lesson, but bear with me.) It has to do with the electrical charge of the various chemical components. Gasoline is electrically neutral. Water and ethanol are electrically charged, or polar, kind of like magnets. That’s why they attract each other. An emulsifier, when added to the mix, gathers up a few hundred water molecules into a ball, called a micelle, and then surrounds the ball as it bonds the whole thing to the hydrocarbon molecules of the gasoline. Think tiny water balloons, with the detergent form-ing the balloon skin. This way, the water molecules don’t get to leave the party early with those polarized ethanol molecules. The end result is a more stable mixture.

“As for the products that claim to extend the shelf life of E10,” says Gail Macri, “while these may be true that gas will be usable for nine months, instead of two to three months, all those products do is keep water suspended in the upper petroleum layer to delay phase separation. They do not prevent water from being absorbed, and they do not remove water or fix fuel.”

At this point, I do have to single out one particular fuel additive, for two rea-sons. First, because it claims to work differently than all other additives, but also because practical application in the field is indicating that there just might be something to this. The specific product is called Star Tron. The MSDS states that more than 95% of the content in a bottle of Star Tron is Naphtha. So far, so good, but not unique. Where it gets interesting is the claim that the active ingredient isn’t a detergent or other emulsifier, but a proprietary mix of organic enzymes.

Here comes more science. An enzyme is a protein, whose function is to vastly speed up a chemical reaction, which allows the affected chemicals to stabilize more quickly. In this case, says Star Brite, the company that manufactures Star Tron, it means the process of surrounding the water happens more vigorously, resulting in smaller balls of water.

“Star Tron’s impact on the water molecule is to reduce the cluster size to a size known as a colloid,” says Matt Cohen, Star Brite’s Fuel Engineer. “That’s so small it will stay in suspension without an emulsifier’s chemical bond, at least for a while. This is why, during operation where there is some fuel movement, Star Tron will act just like a detergent and move microscopic drops of water up into the fuel column where it is harmlessly burned off.”

Size matters here. Cohen says that micelles of water may be large enough to displace fuel as a boundary layer lubricant between metal surfaces, which causes wear on pumps and close tolerance fuel system components. The smaller colloids of water, he says, do not.

Another benefit, says Cohen, of using enzymes over detergents is that, “en-zymes never become part of the reaction. They are ‘catalysts.’ They initiate or accelerate chemical reactions, but release themselves from the reaction and start a new one, millions of times per second. Its takes only a few molecules to do what untold numbers of detergent molecules do.”

Cohen says that the storage life of gasoline treated with Star Tron is greatly enhanced, but can only offer a couple of theories as to why it works. There is a kind of “trust me” taint to the statement, although he says independent labs have confirmed the claim. Cohen points out, “It took scientists over 70 years to

figure out how aspirin worked, so we have to beg your understanding on this one.”

So let’s say you have a fuel tank where a partial phase separation has occurred. That is to say, a small amount of water and ethanol has left the party and dropped to the bottom of your tank. Can this load of fuel be salvaged? A data sheet supplied by Fuel Testers says no. “Removal of the bottom layer of fuel from the tank leaves you with contaminated, octane deficient gas,” says the paper, supplied by Gail Macri. “Only advanced, costly, filtration/fuel-pu-rifying in combination with replacement of chemicals will ‘fix’ phase-separated fuel.”

Star Tron’s Matt Cohen says a tank of fuel that has suffered from a high degree of phase separation is beyond their product’s reach. However, he adds, “Given that water will separate from fuel, even E10, you can have water pooled on the bottom with some ethanol, but the fuel can still have ethanol in it as well. And this is readily restored by adding Star Tron and operating the vehicle.”

“As you’re reading product claims, ask yourself, ‘If these ingredients are so ef-fective to accomplish xyz, then why aren’t they already in all gas sold?’,” says Macri in explaining why the Star Tron claims don’t hold water with Fuel Testers. “Any new miracle chemical that is developed, that really does help gas in some way, the patent is immediately bought by a major gas company/refinery, and then becomes a standard ingredient in gas and may also be sold separately to other companies for use.”

Several motorcycle shops in the state tell Thunder Roads West Virginia that they have seen benefits to using this particular additive. This anecdotal evi-dence comes largely in the form of rough running and hard-starting motors that seemed to calm down when their fuel supply was treated with Star Tron.

Even if you do have success with this or any other fuel additive, there is one as-pect of ethanol-blended fuels that no product on the market can counter. Ethanol is a solvent, and, says Matt Cohen of Star Brite, “It will eat up old rubber.” Keep an eye on your fuel lines.

When it comes to the validity of marketing claims for any fuel additive, it would take an army of chemists and engineers compiling absolute proof to convince me one way or the other. Intelligent people on all sides of this debate make valid points, yet fail to reach consensus. So, I’m not advocating the use of Star Tron, or any other fuel additive. That decision is between you, your mechanic, and your bike. But all of the experts agree the best way to safeguard your bike is to store it with a full tank of fresh, high-octane gas, and to churn through that fuel supply on a regular basis.


EVENT

2 Orange HarleysParts & Accessories for

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Official Grand OpeninG CelebratiOnforThe Melvin Motorcycle Museum

& BikerGarage101.com’s New Retail Store LocationJuNe 10th, 11th, 12th

MoToRcycLe STuNT ShowS

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You pick up a hitchhiker, a beautiful young girl. Suddenly she faints inside your car. You do the right thing and immediately take her to a hospital. Now that’s stressful.But at the hospital, they say she is pregnant & congratulate you that you are going to be a father.You say that you are not the father, but the girl swears that you are. This is getting much more stressful.So then, you request a DNA test to prove that you are not the father. After the tests are completed, the doctor says that you are infertile, and probably have been since birth, so you are definitely not the father. You are extremely stressed but also relieved.On your drive home you make a vow to never pick up hitchhikers again. And then, your mind slowly drifts to your wife and 4 kids at home.

A small zoo in Arkansas obtained a very rare species of gorilla. Within a few weeks the gorilla, a female, became very difficult to handle. Upon examination, the Veterinarian determined the problem. The gorilla was in heat. To make matters worse, there was no male gorilla available.Thinking about their dilemma, the Zoo Keeper’s first ideawas of Bobby Lee, a redneck part-time worker responsible for cleaning the animal cages. Bobby Lee had little sense but possessed ample ability to satisfy a female of any species. Herein, the Zoo Keeper thought they might have a solution. Bobby Lee was approached with a proposition: Would he be willing to mate with the gorilla for $500.00?Bobby Lee showed some interest, but said he would have to think the matter over carefully. The following day, he announced that he would accept their offer, but only under certain conditions: “First,” Bobby Lee said, “There aint gonna’ be no kissin’ her on the lips.” The Zoo Keeper quickly agreed to this condition.“Also”, he continued “you can’t never tell no one, no body about this.” The Keeper again readily agreed to this condition. And,” Bobby Lee said, “I want any youguns’ raised Southern Baptist.” Once again it was agreed. “And finally,” Bobby Lee said, “I’ll need another week to come up with the whole $500.dollars.”

A woman was patiently trying to help her husband set up his new computer. He however was acting annoyed and impatient. She told him to choose a password for security purposes. He made it plainly obvious to his wife what he was entering by stating each letter out loud as he typed: P...E...N...I...SHis wife fell off her chair laughing when the computer replied: Password Rejected. Not Long Enough.

A woman was at work when she received a phone call that her small daughter was very sick with a fever. She left her work and stopped by the pharmacy to get some medication. She got back to her car and found that she had locked her keys in the car. She didn’t know what to do, so she called home and told the baby sitter what had happened. The baby sitter told her that the fever was getting worse. She said, “You might find a coat hanger and use that to open the door.” The woman looked around and found an old rusty coat hanger that had been left on the ground. She knew just finding it there was a good sign. She looked at the hanger and said, “I don’t know how to use this.” She bowed her head and asked God to send her help. As soon as she raised her head, a beat up old motorcycle pulled up, with a weathered and tattered looking bearded man who was wearing a faded skull dew-rag on his head. He had full-sleeve tats on both arms. The woman sent a silent question up to Heaven, “This is what you sent to help me?” She was desperate, but also, she was extremely thankful. The man got off of his cycle and asked if he could help. The woman explained her situation. “Please, can you use this hanger to unlock my car?” He said, “Sure.” He walked over to the car, and in less than a minute the car was opened. She hugged the man and through her tears she said, “Thank you so much! You are a very nice man.” The man replied, “Lady, I’m just a man. A man who got released from prison today. I was in prison for grand theft auto, and have only been out on the streets for about an hour.” The woman hugged the man again and with sobbing tears cried out loud, “Oh, Thank You God! You even sent me a Professional”.

A fifty-ish woman was at home happily jumping on her bed and squealing with delight. Her husband watches her for a while and asks, “Do you have any idea how ridiculous you look?, What’s the matter with you?” The woman continues to bounce on the bed and says, “I don’t care, I just came from having a mammogram and the Doctor said I have the breasts of an 18 year-old” The husband sarcastically replied , “What did he say about your 56 year old ass?” She quickly replied..... “Your name never came up,”

Being a decent, modest man, when I checked into my hotel on a recent trip, I said to the lady at the Registration Desk….. “I certainly hope the porn channel in my room is disabled.” To which she replied, “No, it’s regular porn, you sick bastard.”


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THUNDER ON THE GRANDSEATS & SADDLE TOUR 2011

JUNE 24TH-25TH Gates open 9am Friday

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www.thunderonthegrand.com / 517-282-9846

$25.00 per personFree tent camping / no elec

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• Bike show • zip line• diVa Bike show

• Vendors • Biker Games • scaVenGer hunt Bike run• Bike Builders Vs thunder on the Grand tuG oF war....

and so much more

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acs triBute Bike diamond p chopperwith owners Fred & cindy pickerinG

pro1 cycle’s keVin persons & the razorBack Bike

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5 bands IncludIng aMP Rage all weekend

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saturday nite headliner GENEva

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Sculptures by Steph Collin

BIKE BUILDERS & BIKERS

(Located Behind cLuB car restaurant)6225 West “d” ave. / Kalamazoo Mi 49009 / 269-903-2234

open Wed thru sat @ 3pM

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EVENT

J u n e 2 4 - 2 6 , 2 0 1 1Friday, June 24th: Concert by all female AC/DC Tribute Band“Hell’s Belles” in The Little River Event Center @ 9:00 p.m.

Saturday, June 25th: Pure Thunder: Escorted Veterans Memorial Ride Two Harley Davidson “Fat Boy” Motorcycle Giveaway

Hooter Girls Bike Wash ~ FREE Bike ShowBlessing of the Bikes ~ Outdoor Afternoon Concert by “ODR “

“Secure the Perimeter” Concert with Recording Artist, Kelly Trudell Sunday June 26th: Poker Run ~ Pig Roast ~ Silent Auction

Outdoor Afternoon Concert by “ODR “ Hooter Girls Bike Wash

Free Games ~ Food & Fun more info: www.rollingthundermichigan1.com or www.LRCR.com

L i t t l e R i v e r C a s i n o R e s o r t i n M a n i s t e e , M I

U S 3 1 & M 2 2

2nd Annual THUNDER AT THE RIVERSalute to Freedom

R a i s i n g F u n d s t o B e n e f i t M i c h i g a n V e t e r a n s

Young RemarksStaying Moisturized at 60 mph!

Now that Thunder Roads has a Women’s Section, do you think we’ll be seeing articles focusing on moisturizing and preventing chapped lips? How about secrets on keeping your braids tighter, without getting a headache? Maybe the latest leather fashions? We all know how important that can be. Kinda sounds like Biker Barbie, doesn’t it?You are reading this magazine, because that image is not what you are about. You want to ride because you want to ride. Whether you have been riding since you were a teenager, or you just got off of someone’s back. . . you want to be treated with respect and dignity. You feel that you have earned it and are entitled to it and deserve it. You have found a passion and must pursue it to its fullest.

There are currently over 544,000 registered motorcycles in Michigan. Of those, roughly 12.5% of those are women. I’ll do the math for you – that is 68,000 women riding in our lovely state. We are becoming quite the cartel. Although we are currently only about 1/8th of the bike population, we are a serious upcoming faction of the riding and ownership groups in Michigan.

The history of women riding motorcycles is a little sparse compared to our current thousands. As with any group, we too had pioneers. In 1932, Louise Scherbyn began her riding career. She went on to become the founder and first president of WIMA (Women’s International Motorcycle Association), a worldwide organization designed to promote women who love to ride.

There is another woman, Theresa Wallach, who was the first vice-president of WIMA. Theresa has many firsts in her life. In 1935, she was the first person (not woman – person) to ride a motorcycle across the Sahara Desert. She also was the first woman to ever win a Brooklands Gold Star, which was awarded to any rider that managed a 100+mph lap around Brooklands, the famous English road race circuit. Proving that she could ride as well as any man, she ran her 101.64mph lap in the rain. She was also the first woman dispatch rider in the British army during World War II.

These ladies paved the way for the rest of us. There are now many Lady Rider groups springing up. If you are looking for one and have not heard of a group in your area, a quick internet search will give you several to choose from. From the preliminary research I did on the Women’s Riding groups, they were formed for a “No Attitude – Let’s Ride” format. This is exactly the kind of woman on a bike today – no fluff. She’s smart. She’s safe. And she’s putting some miles on.

However, before we get too carried away pounding our chest about the image we want to convey while we are on our ride, there is a website that everyone should visit. Go to www.harley-davidson.com and under the Community tab, click on Women Riders. There is a lot of information here – from Helmet Hair Tips to videos on How to Pick up a Motorcycle. This shows how thirsty we are for information, how varied our tastes are for that information and how well vendors (in this case H-D) are quenching our requests. Guys, there may be some information here for you too.

There are also Garage Parties™ for women being hosted by the local Harley dealers. The H-D website explains, “Garage Party™ events are women-only social events hosted by H-D dealerships after hours that offer hands-on tips and seminars on key areas of motorcycling basics. These are a great way to become acquainted with the bikes, the gear and the terminology.” This is a new opportunity for just us gals to learn about our passion.

Being a woman on a motorcycle, I know that I was a little nervous about invading a man’s world of motorcycle riding. However, I have yet to meet a man (other than one of my step-sons) who did not encourage me to ride, nor has anyone ever belittled me for being a woman on a bike. That says a lot for the confidence and integrity of the many men that have been riding for years. Although this invasion is new to them, most men do not feel threatened by us. They welcome us. It’s quite possible they enjoy riding by themselves for a change.

If you are just at the beginning of your riding career, there is a Road Map link on the H-D website that will be most helpful. This will guide you through the process of learning to ride, getting your license and finding a bike that ‘fits you’. Maybe you are at the stage where you just need a little more practice – there are some good tips for that too. Or maybe, you are an experienced rider and would like to ‘give back’. The information necessary to become a mentor is only a click away.

Over the course of the next few months, I will have the opportunity to interview many women who are involved with motorcycles. That involvement will come from many different angles, but what I think you’ll find, is a common sisterhood. All we want to do is ride. We can clean house and do laundry on the days it’s raining. So ladies, readjust your schedules, forget about cooking and let’s get out there. Why? “Because I ride my own.”

By Jill Young

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(56456)Cover Design by Carolyn Gambito

“THIS STORY IS SO SHOCKING AND STRONG, YOU HAVE TO BE STRONG TO READ IT.”

-LONNIE MACK, BLUES ROCK GUITARIST/SINGER, SONGWRITER

“Neither the inhumane procedures of Electro-Shock Therapy or being forced to give up her son to adoption crushed the spirit and strength of Katy Ishee. From the shocking pain and heartbreaking loss of her child to the happiness of her reunion with her son, Katy Ishee has written a provocative and poignant tale of her valiant struggle for survival, survival that many would not have the strength to accomplish. Her wonderfully written book will have you riveted from beginning to end.”

- Joe Soll, LCSW, psychotherapist AUTHOR OF ADOPTION HEALING... A PATH TO RECOVERY

AND EVIL EXCHANGE.

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KATY O. ISHEE was born and raised in Wauchula Florida. She attended school at St. Leo College in Fl. and Appalachian State University in Boone, N.C. She has written for The Herald Advocate, Tampa Tribune, Beverly Hills Inquirer and the Citrus Chronicle.

Katy makes her home in Tennessee with her husband, singer, Virgil T., and her fi ve American bulldogs. Pieces of My Heart is Katy’s fi rst book.

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“PIECES OF MY HEART IS A BOOK THAT STAYS WITH YOU LONG AFTER THE LAST PAGE IS READ. IT OPENS THE DOOR FOR DISCUSSION ON SO MANY LEVELS, IT’S TRULY A GREAT READ. THIS STORY TUGGED AT MY HEART STRINGS LIKE NOTHING I’VE EVER READ BEFORE. PIECES OF MY HEART BY KATY ISHEE IS LIKE TAKING A JOURNEY THOUGH SOMEONE’S MIND, HEART AND SOUL. NO DETAIL IS LEFT UNTURNED, NO EMOTION LEFT UNSAID. PIECES OF MY HEART IS A POWERFUL, GRIPPING, AND HEART-WRENCHING READ.” —CATHERINE BURR, BESTSELLING AUTHOR

cropmarksSPINE SIZE 0.856 (425-428 pages)

56456-ISHE_6X9_Softcover

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ªxHSLENGy399043zv*:+:!:+:!@

ISBN: 978-1-4363-9904-3

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Cover Design by Carolyn Gambito

“THIS STORY IS SO SHOCKING AND STRONG,

YOU HAVE TO BE STRONG TO READ IT.”-LONNIE MACK,

BLUES ROCK GUITARIST/SINGER, SONGWRITER

“Neither the inhumane procedures of Electro-Shock Therapy or being

forced to give up her son to adoption crushed the spirit and strength of

Katy Ishee. From the shocking pain and heartbreaking loss of her child

to the happiness of her reunion with her son, Katy Ishee has written

a provocative and poignant tale of her valiant struggle for survival,

survival that many would not have the strength to accomplish. Her

wonderfully written book will have you riveted from beginning to end.” - Joe Soll, LCSW, psychotherapist

AUTHOR OF ADOPTION HEALING... A PATH TO RECOVERY AND EVIL EXCHANGE.

__________KATY O. ISHEE was born and raised

in Wauchula Florida. She attended

school at St. Leo College in Fl.

and Appalachian State University

in Boone, N.C. She has written

for The Herald Advocate, Tampa

Tribune, Beverly Hills Inquirer

and the Citrus Chronicle.Katy makes her home in Tennessee

with her husband, singer, Virgil T.,

and her fi ve American bulldogs.

Pieces of My Heart is Katy’s fi rst

book.

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“PIECES OF MY HEART IS A BOOK THAT STAYS WITH YOU LONG AFTER THE LAST PAGE

IS READ. IT OPENS THE DOOR FOR DISCUSSION ON SO MANY LEVELS, IT’S TRULY A GREAT

READ. THIS STORY TUGGED AT MY HEART STRINGS LIKE NOTHING I’VE EVER READ BEFORE.

PIECES OF MY HEART BY KATY ISHEE IS LIKE TAKING A JOURNEY THOUGH SOMEONE’S

MIND, HEART AND SOUL. NO DETAIL IS LEFT UNTURNED, NO EMOTION LEFT UNSAID. PIECES

OF MY HEART IS A POWERFUL, GRIPPING, AND HEART-WRENCHING READ.”

—CATHERINE BURR, BESTSELLING AUTHOR

cropmarks

SPINE SIZE 0.856 (425-428 pages)

There are so many fascinating stories from her life that will upset you on one page and make you laugh out loud the next. We’ve mention her tough teen years with the pregnancy & asylum visit. Wait till you read about her ride in a 1964 Chevy from Tampa to San Francisco during the summer of love in 1967 that brings her in touch with many characters along the way. There are cheating husband stories, drunk bike drag racing stories, her moment of fame as a Loretta Swit look a like, getting into a fight with the Sheriff of Custer, SD, she portrayed a bartender in Old West shows in Tombstone, AZ where she nearly shot her butt off with a blank firing pistol. During her travels on her mostly trustworthy 1969 BMW she crossed path with egomaniac bikers, liars, bad asses, patch holders, truckers, and a variety of assholes in her journey. She also came across numerous good people & fun filled honest biker brothers & sisters who are true to the lifestyle. Hell people, Santa Claus gave her away at her huge biker wedding in 1994!!!!! :) You must read this book! It’s sorta like a chick version of Easyrider except it covers a variety of adventures & has a happy ending. Katy does eventually find happiness with her last husband, Virgil, in the hills of East Tenn. More importantly she finds her only child, Steve, after 27 years who is also a biker and who had been searching for her too.(If you don’t get emotional reading about their long anticipated reunion there must be something wrong with ya.) Her long time pal, blues guitar legend Lonnie Mack, sums up Katy’s bio very well with one sentence. He says, “This story is so shocking & strong, you have to be strong to read it.” Nuff said right there. This ain’t no romance novel or boring biography this is how a girl who likes her knees in the breeze has survived life during many difficult trials with a lot of humor, tenacity, & courage with her head held high. Good luck with the rest of your life Miss Katy. I want to meet that boy of yours & I hope you remain happy. You can order a personalized autographed copy at Katy’s website www.katyishee.com or catch her at a book signing. Learn more about her on Facebook. Look for Katy/ Hot Lips book signings at the CMT/ABATE Swap Meet March 19 at S & G Custom Cycles in Columbia, Spring Thaw Swap Meet in Shelbyville March 26, and Mule Day Soiree at S & G Cycles in Columbia on April 2.

Book Review “Pieces Of My Heart” Review By: Rebel Ron Now that it is Winter I thought I’d give y’all something to do in this inclement weather while the bike sits in the garage with a battery tender hooked to it. Reading is always good for you, if you are well read you will not be easily misled. I have a good book to recommend to you to pass the time while snow & ice cover the roads. It’s a bio of a Tennessee resident biker gal named Katy Ishee. I met Miss Katy at the Spring Thaw Bike Show last year & she gave me a copy of her book to review for TRM. To be honest I procrastinated on reading the book because the title implies that it is a chick’s book but its not! Sure the ladies will love the the roller coaster ride of drama that unfolds during Katy’s colorful, adventurous, & emotion filled life. But the men will enjoy seeing life through the eyes of a biker woman who was ahead of her time in a man’s world over 30 years ago. Katy has been riding solo since 1974 and she has traveled her often difficult path of life resembling a famous icon, Maj. Margarette “Hot Lips” Houlihan, from the popular MASH TV series. All the while carrying a torch in her heart seeking the son that her cold hearted & difficult mother demanded she put up for adoption when she was 17 years old while growing up in rural Florida. I very seldom read novels. I prefer history or bios about real people. This 370 page volume is written by a biker woman who still rides & is exciting to talk to. You’ll read her detailed stories of the horror of being committed to an insane asylum by her parents. You’ll get a glimpse of the painful

& ludicrous shock therapy treatment she suffered with because her Rebel spirit did not conform to the mold her parents, doctors, and society held at that time for young girls. It is scary, sad, & shocking. (Pun intended.) You’ll read about the heartache of always thinking & wondering about the blue eyed blond hair son she brought into the world. There are tales of the free love & drug

induced years of the late 1960s. She has been literally beaten down by men who have an issue with independent women. She has endured several troubled marriages along with alcohol induced mistakes and good times. (One husband in particular puzzled

me when he was upset & angry because she was so happy after finding her son.) Another thing you’ll appreciate about the book is how her life paralleled so many great songs from the time period. I think we all do that, I know I do.

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my fear of bridges wrong and will be joining my fellow riders in the Midnight Ride. Riding has allowed me to find the independence and confidence in myself I did not know existed.

Always being artistic, my new found romance with motorcycles opened a new hobby in my heart- J-Bling. I have been creating helmet designs

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Jodi’s BlingBy Jodi Johnson

For the past four years I’ve enjoyed the road from the “back seat”. I had not dreamt of becoming an official “Lady Rider”, and certainly not owning a Harley. I made an impulsive pact with friends to take the endorsement class at Lansing Community College. Excitedly I enrolled in the class surprising myself that I wanted to ride my own. Timing was ironic; the week before class started, I found my inspiration to pass the class. It was a 2004 Harley Davidson 883 Custom. I made a small financial commitment, a large mental one, and I succeeded! I passed the class and bought the bike!!

All though I was scared at first, the more I rode the more comfortable I became. Soon, I was ready to prove I could make a real road trip- to the Mackinac Bridge and back. I was not ready to cross, not yet. But this year I will be proving

over the last few years with genuine Swarovski crystals that adorn every item I create. The biggest impact has been seeing one of my designs glide by on a sunny day- that was when I knew I had achieved something special not just for myself but others.

My proudest moment is the creation of my bike. Over the past few months the tank and fenders were custom painted by Dirty White Boyz Cycle

Art. The Corbin seat was newly recovered. Then a Dakota Digital Dash and Paul Yaffe Supertrapp Road Legends X Pipes were installed. My personal touch of bling is on the windshield, tank, front fender, license plate cover, and gas cap. My ride now boasts over 10,000 Swarovski crystals shining from end to end.

I’m completely in love with riding and


f a m i l y o w n e d a n d o p e r a t e d s i n c e 1 9 8 0

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Where Quality and Customer Service Go Hand in Hand

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Women Riders Appreciation Day

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winTer licenseD cloThing ON SALEenTer To win a gifT valueD aT $75.00

may is women riders month ~ stop in mAY 14th for

Check out the newly redesigned 2011 1200 Custom

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can’t wait to plan all of my new journeys ahead. This summer is going to be the summer to remember with many rides to come. Becoming a “Lady Rider” is one of the best decisions I have ever made. I thank Jason of Backdraft Custom Cycle. I could not have done this without his support and his motorcycle mechanic skills. I’ve been blessed to meet so many great women out there that share the same passion as I do. Every girl needs a little sparkle in their life; at least I know I can give them something like that. To see many of my designs visit me at backdraftcustomcycle.com.


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MAY

1

Specializing In MODEL and MOTORCYCLE

PHOTOGRAPHY

FROM MAGAZINE COVERS TO PORTFOLIOS

We Deliver Excellence

TOM ROSSMAN [email protected] • 586-899-7442

www.myspace.com/tom_diamondphoto2510 South M-76 • West Branch MI 48661

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The Stinger’s 2010 Toys For Tots Benefit was another great success! In total we raised over $2000.00 in monetary donations and the toys that were donated were unbelievable! There were five Toys for Tots boxes filled to the rim! The toy collection team had to come back the next day to pick up the remaining toys because they could not fit them all in their trucks on the first trip. And of course, Santa was there as dozens of kids had their picture taken with him as they all had a jolly ole time. The Marines also made their appearance dressed in their blues looking fantastic! Overall, it was a HUGE SUCCESS!!! If you were able to join, just being in the presence of all the kids, the holiday spirit, along with the Marines and knowing your there doing a great deed was an unbelievable feeling. Everyone had smiles on their faces and were tappin their toes to the awesome music provided by the five bands that donated their time as well. All of these bands just rocked the place out!!!!!!! We look forward to this year’s benefit and for this benefit for years to come

Stinger’s Toys for Tots Benefit Huge Success By Kerry Jones


EVENT

Motorcycle Swap Meet

Sun. May 29th

County Expo Center, Valparaiso IN

10:00am - 4:00pm

8th Annual

Cadillac, MI Motorcycle Swap Meet

Saturday

Apr 23rd

27th Annual

Peotone, IL Motorcycle Swap Meet

Saturday

May 7th

Discount Ticket Info and DetailsParagonsPromotion.com1-800-800-6034

Buy Sell Swap Bikes Parts Leather


I’ve been building motorcycles since I was 14 years old. I was 10-12 years old when my dad took me for a ride on his 1946 Harley-Davidson Knucklehead. It was THE greatest thing in the world to me, looking under his arm and around him at the speedometer, it showed 80 mph, and I thought, “This is cool, when I grow up, I got to have me one of these.” Pops bought me a mini-bike and it’s been history ever since. I’d take it apart and repaint it, put a bigger

motor in it so it’d go faster, that’s when me and the boys started our own mini-bike club, the “Aces”.

In 1979, I bought my first Harley-Davidson, a 1960 FL Panhead. It was a chopper when I bought it, so one long winter; I made a bagger out of it. Over the years it has been transformed in several different customs.

I still own it today. Last year, I restored a 1964 FLH Harley-Davidson Panhead for Michigan Chopperfest 2010, where I took 1st Place in the Top 10 Antique Builders of Michigan. That Saturday, I entered the bike in the Ride In Bike Show class for Pro Builders and won 1st place in the Panhead Class. I also entered my 1945 UL Harley-Davidson flathead bobber in the Midwest Motorcycle Fest 2010 and took 1st place in the Old Skool Bobber class and also 1st place in the Judges Choice.


EVENT

Grampa Lug is the historian for the Capitol Area HOG. He has lots of stories from the thousands of miles he has ridden across the USA.

GRAMPA LUG’S “ROAD STORIES”

THE ALBERTA FLATI began road riding in 1981. My touring goal in 1996 was to ride to Yellowknife, the capital city of the Canadian Northwest Territories. This tour would then complete the North American Continent, having done so using three motorcycles. On the way there, I would receive a ticket, get a flat tire, and drop my bike. But, “Even the bad times on the road are good.”

Riding my 1991 Tourglide, I crossed the boarder at the “Soo”. Barely into Canada, I was stopped by the Ontario Provincial Police and my “fuzz buster” was confiscated. It was an early model radar detector which lacked “stealth” technology. The officer detected it electronically from his patrol car, and “possession” resulted in a $163 fine and loss of the unit.

I continued cruising across Canada on the scenic “Yellowhead Route”, to the Mackenzie Highway in the city of Peace River, Alberta. There, a prominent sign announced “Mile Post “O”. I took a photo for the record, and headed north into lands not shown in my Rand McNally.

I camp when I tour. I’d prefer the Hyatt, but tenting uses up less cash, which enables longer tours. In the small village of Dixonville, a $5 campground is maintained by the local citizens. I was the only camper, but on a Friday night, it was also in use by cars of teenage drinkers and other adolescents who wanted to build a fire and hang out. Two boys came over to chat. When they went back to their own fire, I went to bed. In the morning, the items I had left out on a picnic table had been taken. My bike cover had also been disturbed. I wrote a sarcastic “Thank You” to the locals about the way they were bringing up their kids, and left it in the money slot. About 30 kilometers north of Manning, the rear tire went flat.

The puncture had been caused by a knife, and the slit was too long to be sealed with a round plug. The tire still leaked after inflating it with my portable air compressor. I had to stop to re-inflate the tire again before reaching the gas station back in Manning. While using the air hose there, another driver who saw my plight, told me of the motorcycle mechanic’s training course taught at the community college in Fairview. It was over 100 miles further south, but they would have the facilities to change the tire. I decided to go for it. Stopping every 15 miles to re-inflate the tire, and running flat part of the time, I finally arrived in Fairview on a Saturday afternoon, and checked into a motel.

I called the college, and although summer break had started, a course instructor was still available. He agreed to service my bike if I brought my bike and a tire to him. I called the Harley Dealer in Edmonton and arranged for a tire to be shipped by Greyhound to the bus station in Fairview, where I picked it up the next Monday morning.

My old Dunlop could no longer be inflated, but running flat, I rode into the campus to the training garage where the instructor was waiting for me. While I strolled around the college and waited, he not only mounted the new tire, but cleaned and polished my Harley as well! Inspection of the old tire confirmed that it had indeed been slashed with a knife. The instructor only asked for $35, but I also left a good tip. This is the only authorized Harley-Davidson training center in Canada. An excellent facility which includes a museum with restored vintage Harleys.

With renewed optimism, I again rode northerly, crossed the border at the 60th parallel and received a “Certificate of Achievement” at the welcome center. I had to borrow some lawn mower gas to make it the rest of the way to Hay River. While there, I enjoyed swimming and sight seeing. The road to Yellowknife was under construction. It was deeply rutted and impassable except by four wheel drive vehicle. I gave it a shot, but after dropping my bike in slimy mud, turned south and ended up in Arizona. At last, Canada, the USA and Mexico were “done”.

Back home I received a nice letter from the good folks of Dixonville, apologizing for my experience there. They had discovered who the boys were and wished to compensate me for their miss-deeds. I also received a letter from the Alberta Provincial Police who asked for details and offered to pursue the matter. More later, after I ride a little bit... GRAMPA LUG

If’n you have insomnia, then here. Read this.


EVENT

EVENT

GET YOUR TICKETS EARLY!$40 IN ADVANCE, $50 STARTING 6/16 (MIDNIGHT)

Includes: 2 nights of rustic camping on-site! Fireworks, Ride-In Bike Show, Field Events, World Famous H.O.G. Auction, Self-Guided

Tour through West Michigan, Forgotten Eagles® Beverage Tent.

Adult Party Atmosphere \ Food Available No Pets Please!

PRIMITIVE CAMPINGOpens Wednesday at 12:00 Noon $10.00 per person, per day

(Wed. & Thurs. only) Must have event ticket

for early camping or trailer drop-off.

RAFFLE: $5 DONATIONS2011 Harley-Davidson FXD Super Glide. Event proceeds benefit the Sandy Corley Memorial Run Fund at Mercy Health Partners, Johnson Family Center for Cancer Care.

FOR EVENT TICKETS OR INFO:Sandy’s Harley-Davidson231.924.3020 www.sandysharley-davidson.com/run.html

STAR TICKETS PLUS800.585.3737www.starticketsplus.com

FOR VENDOR INFO CALL:Keith Rollston: 231.519.1595Gary Bredeweg: 616.437.6972 [email protected]

KICKOFF BENEFIT BASH - SATURDAY, APRIL 23, 2011Doors open at 6:00. Live music, benefit auction, and more. Details to be announced.

At the Grand Haven Eagles Aerie #925, 20 N. Second St. Grand Haven, MI 49417(Hall donated by the Eagles Arie #925 & the Eagle Riders)

FREMONT HARLEY OWNERS GROUP PRESENTS...

THE 23RD ANNUAL SANDY CORLEY MEMORIAL RUN

RAFFLE!WIN THIS MOTORCYCLE

Drawing held Sat., June 18th

THURSDAY - SATURDAY: June 16-18, 2011

DOUBLE JJ RESORT: Rothbury, MI

LIVE MUSIC: Thur. - Sat. night

BANDS: Thursday:

Local BandsFrIday:

Local Bands & WarrantsaTurday:

Local Bands & TBA

®

11940 North Maple IslandFremont, MI 49412

231-924-3020www.sandysharley-davidson.com

35 years family owned and operated experience! Plus outstanding Customer Satisfaction Scores!

Make Sandy’S Harley-davidSon® your cHoiceSchedule your Spring Service today!

23rd AnnuAl SAndy Corley MeMoriAl run

kick off Bash!

live perforMance By North Bound food / loads of fun

forgotten eagles silent auctionAll proceeds go to the 23rd Annual Sandy Corley Memorial run,

one of the largest fund raisers for cancer research and equipment in the state of Michigan.

April 23 2011 ~ doorS open At 6pMat the Grand Haven eagles #925

20 n. 2nd St. / Grand Haven Mi 49417

april Store SpecialST-ShirT TueSday

every Tuesday in april Buy 1 regularly priced licensed

Sandy’s harley-davidson® T-shirt

and get 50% OFF a second of equal value or less

Spring and Summer styles arriving daily


EVENT

NEW !!!!! Special Harley Davidson

Dealers Program 888-230-6151 www.midv.net

Thomas Radewahn CIC, LIC — Agent

5 years replacement cost on your new bike

with Harley discounts on

your Home and Auto Insurance

“Since 1931”

we are the area’s Largest aftermarket parts and accessories dealer for your

HarLey-DaviDson®

Mon-tHur 9aM-5pM fri 9aM-6pM sat 9aM-3pM

804 s.Huron M-13 Linwood Mi 48634(6 miles N. of Bay City)

989.697.5525www.bubbas.biz

you can shop at Bubbas 24/7 - Check out the great Deals at www.bubbas.biz

We aLso Carry parts for Metrics and Cruisers

est.

1984

In business for over 27 years and counting

May 15th

Back yard Swap Meet 9aM ~ 4pM

Call now to reserve your space

May 28th & 29th

Bubba’s Memorial Weekend ClaSSiCsee our website for details

Join us Join us

THE ULTIMATE IN HIGH ENERGY ROCK & ROLL

Original & Classic Rock BandNow

BookiNg For The ridiNg SeaSoN Thunder roads

Michigan AdvertisersBook Now and get a TrM Mi

diScouNT

www.srprocks.commyspace.com/srprules

For BookiNgS callFred Milner 248.404.7554Shawn allendorf 734.444.4696

LAKE ODESSA, MI1021 4th Ave.

Just Like Mom’s…If She Can Cook!

HOME OF THE PUB BURGER • STEAKS • BURGERS • BURRITOS • PULLED PORK

• KENO • LOTTO • KARAOKE

HAPPY HOUR WEEKDAYS from 3:00pm–6:00pm


Midwest Police Motorcycle training, inc. Finest Motorcycle Training in the country

right here in Troy, Michigan!

Police and civilian classesLearn to control your motorcycle like the best skilled riders in the country.

Current Motorcycle Endorsement Required.

www.midwestmotorcycletraining.comcall 248-855-4444 for details

Troy QualiTy inn feaTures:free wireless high-speed internet access, fitness Center,

seasonal outdoor Pool

also available:business center with computer & internet access, copy & fax service.

restaurant and lounge with free cocktails and hors-d’oeuvresmonday - Thursday from 6-7Pm

Midwest Motorcycle students receive

sPecial rate at Quality inn 2537 rochester Court, Troy mi 48083

248-689-7500


MV Agusta Pure Motorcycle Art, Design & FunctionThe MV Agusta Collection is the private collection of Gary Kohs, Birmingham, Michigan. Gary has been an avid collector of MV Agusta motorcycles for many years and has what is arguably the most compre-hensive collection of vintage and contemporary MV Agusta Motorcycles in the world today.Gary has ridden bikes since he was twenty-one. Why twenty-one Gary states from his web site…..”Well my parents told me they didn’t care what I did after twenty-one, but until then they would ap-preciate my not riding a motorcycle. When I turned twenty-one I bought a Triumph Bonneville 750. I still have it and it is as nice today as the day I bought it. The combination of appearance, sound and riding enjoyment just made it a rolling piece of art for me.”Now Gary is a fan of Massimo Tamburini who is an Italian motorcycle designer for motorcycle com-panies including: Cagiva, Ducati, MV Agusat, and Bimota, which he founded, together with Bianchi and Morri (BiMoTa).As for the MV Agusta itself, the company has been around since 1945 with its headquarters in Varese, Italy. One of the reasons Count Vincenzo Agusta together with his brother Domenico formed MV Agusta was that at the end of the Second World War there was a post-war need for cheap, efficient transportation, but then they got into racing were the company has since won over 3000 races and 63 World Championships overall.Being a Motorcyclist myself and looking at this collection I must say it is awesome, really think how many of us out there wish we had all of our bikes from our past restored and on display, and here’s a guy with over 75 bikes. One of my favorite bikes to see was the 1954 175 Disco Volante CS I love the style of the gas tank.The MV Agusta collection will be on display at the Midland Center for the Arts Alden B. Dow Museum of Science & Art till April 10th. Call the Midland Center for the Arts (989-631-5931) or visit the MV Agusta Collection websitehttp://www.themvagustacollection.com

By Tim Ostrander


PRE-OWNED ROAD KING CLASSIC

STARTING AT $179 A MONTH & 0 DOWN!

PRE-OWNED ELECTRA GLIDE STARTING AT

$229 A MONTH & 0 DOWN!

PRE-OWNED SOFTAIL FAT BOY STARTING AT

$179 A MONTH & 0 DOWN!



WE SERVICE ALL V-TWINS! Call today for an appointment! 52 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE APRIL 2011

The Ultimate Michigan Motorcycle Accident Handbook

Buckfire & Buckfire, P.C. Michigan’s Best motorcycle accident attorneys

(800) 606-1717 www.Buckfirelaw.com

Warning: Do Not Speak to the Insurance Adjuster or Hire a Lawyer Until You Read This Free Book. The Book reveals: How To Find The Best Lawyer For Your Case Who Must Pay For Motorcycle Damage Claims How To Get The Best Money Settlement For Your Injuries Are You Entitled To Michigan No-Fault Insurance Benefits How To Get Your Medical Bills and Lost Wages Paid AND MUCH MORE including the SECRET STRATEGIES insur-

ance companies will use to avoid paying YOU a fair settlement. Request your book by calling (800) 606-1717 or visit

www.MichiganMotorcycleBook.com

Your FREE Guide to Michigan Motorcycle Accident Cases

Over 90% of Michigan bikers purchase the wrong motorcycle insurance. Are you one of them? Warning: Read This Report Before You Take Your Motorcycle on Michigan Streets and Highways.

The Guide reveals: Why Asking Your Agent for “Full Coverage” is Never Enough Why You Must Buy PL/PD Coverage Why You Should Buy Medical Payment Coverage Why You Must Buy Uninsured Motorist Coverage Why You Must Buy Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Download your Free copy at www.FreeMotorcycleReport.com

The book is written by award winning Michigan motorcycle accident attorney Daniel L. Buckfire. He is a member of ABATE and is a frequently invited guest speaker by motorcycle groups across the State of Michigan. He is a member of the Michigan Brain Injury Counsel and Michigan Association for Justice.

FREE Motorcycle Insurance Buying Guide

InstallIng a Fuel sIght gauge

By Tyler Malinky – lowBrow CusToMs

This shows how easy it is to install a fuel sight gauge into the side of your gas tank. A sight gauge can be handy, especially if you have a small gas tank, for seeing when you are running low on gas. We show the installation on a new Sporty gas tank, if you are doing this mod on a gas tank that has had gas in it, please be sure that you clean it out thoroughly before welding so you don’t blow yourself up.We started with one of our own fuel sight gauge kits, though there are many available on the market or if you have a lathe you can make your own bungs.

The basic tools needed: drill, step bit (or you can use standard drill bits, but step bits, also called unibits, rule), cen-ter punch, cutting fluid and a marker.

Figure where you want each bung and mark it on your tank, center punch the spot, and drill a pilot hole with a small drill bit. You can now use your step bit to drill the proper diameter hole (5/8” in the case of our bungs). The use of cutting fluid makes it drill easier and keeps from burning up your expensive bits. Once you have your holes it is a good idea to work on getting out all the metal shavings from your tank with compressed air.

Clean any oil or dirt from the bungs and the gas tank in preparation for welding. The flanges on the sight glass bungs work well to keep the same stand-off height and make it easy to weld to the

thinner sheet metal. Tack in place, and get to welding. Be careful to not overdo it with the heat and distort the threads in the bungs.

Here we go, bungs welded in and ready to install the sight gauge kit. The bungs are 1/8” NPT as are the supplied chrome-plated brass elbow fittings. Simply thread the elbow fittings into the bungs, it is a good idea to use some thread sealant. I use Hylomar Univer-sal Blue Racing Formula Gasketing & Sealing Compound. Dab a bit on the threads and you are golden.


1-800-356-7223 www.WizardsProducts.com

Ask for WIZARDS at your local bike shop

or call for a dealer near you.

• Removes bluing and discoloration from exhaust pipes• Safe on pipes, shields and stacks• Great on chrome and stainless• Complete kit – includes special polishing cloth

Blue pipes got you down?Get OUT OF THE BLUE with WIZARDS®

Custom built by: Saber Specialties, Mitchell, SD

NEW

By swiveling the fittings at different an-gles, you can get different looks, from a curved or S-shaped sight gauge to a straight one, in any color of fuel line you want.

Article contributed by Lowbrow Customs www.lowbrowcustoms.com


APriL 2011April 1, 2011Ladies garage PartyMotorCity Hd, Farmington Hills, Mi. Jump Start motor-cycle simulator, door prizes, games. Party will be from 6pm - 8pm Call 248-473-7433 for more info.

April 1- 2, 2011 22nd Annual PigFest Ramada Lansing Hotel and Conference Center, Lansing. Pre-reg event only. Live entertainment Fri nite. Sat 1-5pm enter-tainment & Pool party. Sat.Dinner 6pm. Live entertainment Sat 8pm-12am. Cost $35 per person. Rooms avail. Raffles, 50/50’s, etc. Call 517-316-1337 or go to www.harleyrider.net

April 3, 2011giant Motorcycle Swap Meet Birch runBirch run Expo. 11am - 4pm. Adults $9, Kids 6-12 $2, parking free. Commercial vendors, dealers, swap meet booths, loads of parts, accessories, leathers, leather repair, apparel. Buy, sell, or swap. 800-968-4242. www.motorcycleswap.com. (See ad this issue)

April 8 - 9, 2011Open Houseray C’s Hd, Lapeer, Mi. Come celebrate our 30th year in business. demo rides. Call 810-664-9261. www.raycsh-d.com. (See ad this issue)

April 8 – 10, 2011Spring Open HouseM/C Leatherworks MC, washington, Mi. Call for details 586.786.3050. www.mcleatherworks.com

April 9, 20112nd Annual 9 Ball TournamentHall Of Fame Billiards, Warren MI. $35 Per Person. Reg 12pm, Practice 1pm, 1:30 Draw/Start Sharp. Field limited to 64 Players. Door prizes & raffles. Leathernecks MC, Whiskey-Alpha Chapter. (586)929-8880

April 9, 2011Spring Cleaning Open HouseMotorCity Hd, Farmington Hills, Mi. Free Food, demo rides (weather permitting), & door prizes. Call (248)473.7433 for more info.

April 9 – 10, 2011Motorcycle Swap Meet & Expogibraltar Trade Center north, Mt Clemens, Mi. Sat 12 – 7pm, Sun 12 – 6pm. Admission $7. Motorcycle parts & ac-cessories. Call 586-465-6400 or www.gibraltartrade.com. (See ad this issue)

April 16, 2011Bikers For Blood Zips Hd, gaylord, Mi. give a pint get a quart (of oil). Michi-gan Blood Bus will be at Zips 10am-2pm. Call 866-667-8443. (See ad this issue)

April 16, 2011Spring Open HouseABC Hd, waterford. 11am – 3pm. Bike show reg 9am – 12pm, awards 3pm. Free food, music and more. Call 248-674-3175. www.abcharleydavidson.com. (See ad this issue)

April 16, 2011Support Your TroopsRoad Knights MC, 8851 Hiawatha Rd., West Olive, MI. Starts 2pm. $5 donation for entry. Proceeds donated to Soldiers of Iraq.

April 17, 2011giant Motorcycle Swap Meet detroit AreaSuburban Collection Showplace, novi. 11 am to 4 pm. Adults $10, Kids 6-12 $3. Parking $5. The largest Swap

your Thunder roads events CalendarMeet in the Midwest . Commercial vendors, dealers, swap meet booths, loads of parts, accessories, leathers, leath-er repair, apparel. Buy, sell, or swap. 800-968-4242. www.motorcycleswap.com. (See ad this issue)

April 23, 20118th Annual Motorcycle Swap Meetwexford County Civic Center, Cadillac, Mi. 10am to 4pm. Admission: $9, under age 12 $2(with adult). Vendors. Buy, Sell, Trade, Swap Meet, new and used Motorcycle Parts, Bikes, Leather, novelties, food and beer. Paragons Promotion, 800-800-6034. www.paragonspromotion.com. (See ad this issue)

April 23, 20116th Annual north Shore Blessing of the Bikesgibraltar Trade Center north, Mt Clemens, Mi. reg 11am, Blessing 2pm. Free entrance, Food, activities & patches. Vendors, music and more. Call 586-557-0655. www.north-shore.org. (See ad this issue)

April 23, 2011Sandy Corley Memorial run Kick Off Bashgrand Haven Eagles, grand Haven, Mi. doors open 6pm. Benefit Auction. (See ad this issue)

April 23, 2011Brandon J Webb Memorial Poker Run to Benefit Camp HopeSwartz Creek, MI. 1Reg 9:30am – 11am. 100 mile run. First 100 reg receive free t-shirt. Fee $15 per person, $5 per poker hand. Call 810 577 4457 for more info

April 29, 2011diamond P Chopper & great Lakes Hd Cancer ridedpt great Lakes Hd, Bay City 6pm for dow Event Ctr in Sag for Saginaw Sting indoor Arena Football game. Come show support for Fred Pickering & diamond P Chopper to raise money and awareness for the Cancer community. $5 per person for game. ride cost $5 donation per per-son. Call 989-686-0400 and ask for Joe or Mike.

April 29 – May 1, 201114th Annual Crazy Sue graveyard run10am start/Southern riders meet Monroe Clubhouse/northern riders meet washtenaw Clubhouse. $20 per person, $30 couple donation. $5 off w/military id. Live en-tertainment & dinner at Monroe Clubhouse Campgrounds after run. Call 734-848-9927 or Barney 734-497-4257. (See ad this issue)

April 30, 2011Trout Town Vintage Motorcycle Show and Swap MeetKaliseum Recreation Complex, Kalkaska, MI. Vintage Bike Show & Museum. New & used parts & accessories, custom bikes, vendors, and more! Open 9am-6pm. Admission $5 per person, children under 12 free. Contact Judy 231-409-3255. www.trouttownmotorcycleshow.com

April 30, 2011Thunder on the grand Pre-party Bike ride leaving Vermontville Syrup Fest (ball field) 4pm. Sign up 3pm. ride w/2 stops, ending nashville Pit row Bar for pre party.Funds to go got American Cancer Society, bands, auc-tion, bikini bike wash & biker games. Call for more info 517-282-9846

April 30, 2011Pancake Breakfast & red Cross Blood driveMotorCity Hd, Farmington Hills. Bkfst 9am -12pm. Blood drive 10am – 4pm. Call (248)473.7433 for more info.

April 30, 2011garage SaleMcdonald Ford, Freeland, Sponsored by great Lakes Hd, Bay City. 9am – 5pm. reg by April 20th at gLHd. Call 800-594-7343.

April 30, 2011Annual Spring Bash PartyPat’s RH, Muskegon. Food, swap meet, virtual poker run, carnival games. ABATE Region 5. Everyone welcome. Call Bob 231-689-0774 or Snake 231-557-8422 for info.

April 30, 2011 Open House/ WRKR Bike GiveawayHamilton Harley-Davidson, Sturgis MI. Event Starts @ Noon. www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com

MAy 2011May 1, 201112th Annual Blessing of the BikersChurch of the Living word. Ovid, Mi. 9:30am – 10:30am Arrival, free refreshments. Biker service 10:30am – 11:30am w/music. Hog roast 11:30am $5 all you can eat w/entertainment. ride in bike show reg by 12pm. Bless-ing 1:30pm. Charity ride 1:45pm $10 ea person. Call 989-834-5950. www.cotlw.org. (See ad this issue)

May 1, 2011Lakeshore Blessing of the BikesOttawa County Fairgrounds, Holland, MI. Gates open 10 am to 3 pm. Donation of $5 per bike. Drawings/awards begin at 1:30 with Blessing at 2 pm. Music and Vendors. Contact: 616-283-0591, www.blessingofthebikes.com.

May 1, 20115th Annual Blessing of the BikesSt. Louis Center, Chelsea, MI. Gates open 11:30am, bless-ing 1:15pm, entry donation $5 per person. Food, entertain-ment, tours. 734-475-8430. www.stlouiscenter.org.

May 1, 2011Rally at Battle AlleyDowntown Holly, MI. Vintage motorcycle rally and HIM Blessing of the bikes. 9:30am – 4pm. Bike show, biker ser-vice, blessing. Call 248-328-0940. www.h.i.m.org.

May 1st, 20119th Annual Walnecks Monroe Michigan Swap & ShowMonroe County Fairgrounds, Monroe, MI. 8am to 3pm. Joint indoor/outdoor event. $6 for adults and FREE PARKING. For info call 630-985-2097 or visit www.walneckswap.net

May 4, 2011Museumdavidson Express present 100 years of motorcycling, Otsego Historic Museum, downtown Otsego. Starts May 4, 2011 open every wed form 6-8pm and Sat 9am-2pm. For more info call 269-694-9579 or davidson-ex-press.com

May 6, 2011 davidson Express Spring Bike ShowStarts noon downtown Otsego. 18 classes plus pro & best of show. Celebrity judges Matt davis, Editor of dice Magazine & Tim & Mike Mcnamer of Ballistic Cy-cle. Call 269-694-9579 or www.davidson-express.com for more info.

May 6 – 7, 20114th Annual SCA Motorcycle RunShiawassee Conservation Club, Owosso, MI. Fri – 7pm horseshoes, bike & car show. Sat – 7am – 12pm brkfst, 8am – 12pm run sign up. 6pm last bike in. Music, food & drink specials, raffles and more. Call Mike 989-666-2506 or Mike 734-693-0944.

May 6 - 7, 201111th Annual Bikin’ For BurnsFri Pre-Party @ Shrine Circus Park, Clio, MI. Sat Ride @ Perani Event Center, Flint, MI. Both days live music, food, beer tents, vendors & auctions. $10 per person, kids 12 and under are free. Proceeds benefit Area Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Program. For info call 810-533-6456


May 7, 2011Bubs 73 Foundation 3rd Annual Benefit RideCost $20 per rider / $5 for non-rider. Start & finish at the Hide-A-Way, Vicksburg. Registration starts 11am / Ride starts @ 12pm. Call 269-720-3209 or 317-752-0346.

May 7, 20112nd Annual David Gilbert Poker Run2750 S. M-43, Hastings, MI. Start 1pm. Fee $15 per bike, $20 w/pass. Ends Red Neck Willies on Bedford Rd. Hosted by Certified MC Ryders & Ladeez.

May 7, 2011 davidson Express Spring rideBenefiting Otsego VFw Post 3030 Memorial. Come cel-ebrate “Ld’s” 50th Birthday! ride leaves downtown Otsego noon. rtns to the house for music & dinner. Call 269-694-9579 or www.davidson-express.com for more info.

May 7, 2011Harleyfest Kickoff PartyMotorCity Hd, Farmington Hills, Mi. Live Music incl known band TBA, wriF Live broadcast. Free BBQ, door prizes & fitness pole demo & contest. 100 keys given away for 2011 Sportster at Harleyfest June 18th. Call 248. 473.7433 for more info.

May 7 – 8, 201124th Annual Swap Meet & ShowBranch Cty Fairgrounds, Coldwater, MI. Vendors, bike & car show, Spectator $5. Sun Bike blessing 1pm. Call 517-278-5367.

May 8, 2011Midland Motorcycle Swap MeetMidland Fairgrounds. 11am – 4pm. Ride in bike show. Adults $7. Contact Cheryl at 989-835-8486.

May 12 – 15, 2011Camping for Blessing of The Bikes Weekend in Baldwin/BitelyFundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis, Pig Roast, Biker Games, Live music all wknd, Vendors, Camping, community Bon Fire & grill Fri night. Camp prices incl pig roast & entertainment on Sat. Thu: 3 nights $35; Fri - 2 nights $30; Sat- 1 night $20. Call (231) 343-4711 or www.blessingofthebikesbaldwin.com

May 14, 2011Annual Jackson Blessing of The BikesFirst Church of The Nazarene, Jackson, MI (New Location) Starts 11am. Door prizes, food, music, kids area, Ride-In Bike Show. Reg by 1pm, $5 charge. Michigan Traveling VN Wall, W/Service at 1pm. Individual Bike Blessings available from CMA all day. Admission free. Call 517-782-7084

May 14, 2011Blessing of the BikesAgape Apostolic Church, Milan, MI. Starts noon Wilson Park. Short illustrated Sermon, bike show, stunt shows, and prayer for all riders. Ride after Blessing. Part of Discover Milan Day from 9am - 3pm includes Classic Cars, Food, Parades, and other festivities. Call 877-8-AGAPE-8 or www.agapeapostolic.org.

May 14, 2011Caseville Blessing of the Bikes 1p.m. at Caseville Family Arena. Rain Date; Sunday, May 15, 1p.m. Arena open for coffee, donuts and restrooms. Info: 586-651-8855

May 14, 201119th Annual Baldwin Poker RunCrossroads Bar, Baldwin, MI. Sign up 11:30am. Starts 12pm. $10 donation per person. ABATE Region 5. Call Bob at 231-689-0774, Snake 231-557-8422.

your Thunder roads events CalendarMay 14, 2011 4th Annual Blessing of the BikesHamilton Harley-Davidson, Sturgis MI. St. Jude Fundraiser/ Food/ Music. Starts @ Noon. www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com

May 15, 2011First Annual Ride To Read and Bike BlessingGenesee County Literacy Coalition. Refreshments, bike ride. $10 per person. Reg 2pm - 3pm. Blessing at 3:10pm. Ride leaves 3:30pm. Ride ends at Players Inn, Davison. Reg & Blessing at Trinity United Presbyterian Church, Flint. Contact Aileen / Sassy at 810-919-5078

May 15, 2011Para-Dice MC 39th Annual Blessing of the BikesBaldwin Airport, Baldwin, MI. Gates open at 9 am and Bless-ing 1 pm.

May 15, 2011Back yard Swap MeetBubba’s Tri-City Cycles, Linwood, Mi. 9am -4pm. Setup fee is $10.00 for charity. Call 989-697-5525. (See ad this issue)

May 21, 2011Leathernecks MC Spring PartyAmerican Legion, Lansing. Starts 1400 hrs, food 1400 hrs. Cash bar, games, door prizes. (See ad this issue)

May 21, 2011Habitat for Humanity Blessing of the BikersMotz County Park, St. Johns. 10am – 1pm. Bike show: $10 donation. Reg 9:45 – 11:15am. Charity ride: $15 donation; 1 – 2 pm. Blessing of the Bikers: 12:30pm. Lunch: $5 donation. Live band: 11am – 12:30pm. All proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity of Clinton County. Call Sue Carroll at 989.227.1771

May 21, 2011Feed The Children Poker RunNicholson’s, Ann Arbor, MI. Reg starts 10:30am. Ride Dpts 11:30am. Rider $20, pass $5. Live band, prizes. Benefits Feed the Children. Sponsored by STAR Chap 211 & 317. Contact Michele 248 259 5680 or http://FTCPokerun.yolasite.com.

May 21, 20113rd Annual Biker Blessing and Memorial Cancer RideMerriman Road Baptist Church, Garden City, MI. Starts 9:30am. Blessing Noon. Music, games, food, bike wash. Fam-ily Fun. Ride 1pm. blessing free. Ride $20 per bike/ $25 with pass. [email protected]. www.mrbcfaithriders.webs.com.

May 21, 2011Wheels For BlumsBennigans, Plymouth, MI. Bike show. Event time: 11am. Ad-mission: $5. Contact for more info: 734.422.2801. Proceeds From This Event Will Help Veterans. www.alrpost32.com

May 21, 20111st Annual Victory Biker Church Biker BlessingVictory Biker Church, Lennon, MI. Opens 11am. Ride leaves at 2pm. Food, music & more! For info call 810-965-5361 or visit www.victorybikerchurch.org

May 22, 2011Blessed in HellHell Creek Ranch, Hell, MI. Bike show, live music, vendors. Blessings at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm. $8 single, $10 doubles. Call Cody at 313-407-4671, Dave at 734-834-7694.

May 22, 20112nd Annual Car/Motorcycle ShowBaker College Center for Transportation Technology, Flint. Free to spectators & participants. Ride your bike in reg by 12pm. Vendors, bike show, food and much more. Doors and reg at 9am. Awards 3pm. For more information call 810-919-5078 or email [email protected].

EVEnT LiSTingS ArE FrEE!!! increase your attendance by posting your event in

Thunder roads Magazine of Michigan All Advertised Events in our Magazine will have their

event Posted on the Pull Out Calendar and your Event will be Highlighted in the Thunder roads Events

Calendar of the Magazine and an EVEnT Tab will be added to the page with your ad.

Thunder Roads Magazine of Michigan – Your Michigan Biker Connection

(Call about our Special Discounts for Charity Events)To get your event listed in Thunder Roads Magazine and on

our website, send the information to [email protected]

Event information must be received prior to the 10th of the month preceding the event month to be posted in the

magazine.Remember to call ahead before planning to attend any

event as the information/dates may change. Thunder Roads is Not responsible for errors or omissions.

May 22, 20112nd Annual Motorcycle Swap Meet & Antique Bike ShowSt. Joseph County Fairgrounds, Centreville, MI. Open 9am – 4pm. Admission $5. Under 16 free. Pre-86 bike ride in free. Bike show open to pre-1986 motorcycles. Entry fee $5 per bike. Wolverine Chap – Antique Motorcycle Club of America. Call Jeff at 269-521-4203 or Lynn at 269-628-2160. www.wolverineamca.com.

May 22, 2011Biker SundayStewart Road Christian Ministries Center, Monroe, MI. Blessing of the bikes, bike show, ride, all you can eat pasta dinner. Riders $20, pass $10, dinner only $10. Pre-reg bike show 10:15. Call Jim at 734-625-7833.

May 22, 20112nd Annual Jack Morse Memorial RunReg 10am, Sandy’s HD, Fremont, MI. $10 per person, $15 per couple donation for Grand Rapids Veterans fund in Jack’s name. Ride leaves 11am. Ride ends 7 Mile Inn around 6 pm. For info Marina at [email protected]

May 22, 20112nd Annual Freedom Riders Biker BlessingMI Ave Academy, Paw Paw, MI. Free event. 10am Reg. 11am biker rally, 12pm escorted ride ends Roadhouse Grill, Paw Paw. Door prizes & give aways. Call 269-655-5360. www.freedomeridersmi.com

May 22, 20112nd Annual Outdoor Swap MeetKent City Lounge, Kent City, MI. Food, music, bikini bike wash, motorcycle show. Email Dave at: [email protected] or Fred at: [email protected]

May 28, 2011Fly in ride in davidson Express presents dawn Patrol. Plainwell Air-port, Plainwell, Mi. All you can eat pancake breakfast $6 sponsored by Otsego Lions Club. Fun ride leaving at 11am. Call “Ld” at 269-694-9579 or www.davidson-express.com for more information.

May 28, 20118th Annual dillinger rideThe inn Between Saloon, Lewisville, Mi. Sign up 11am - 12pm. run starts 12pm. dinner 5pm. Entry fee $15 per per./ $25 per couple incl dinner. All Proceeds go To Hos-pice. Band starts 6pm. Must be 21. Call 989-428-3522. (See ad this issue)


EVENT

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Open 11am - 2am 7 days a week

Beginning in Mayevery MONDAy 6PM

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DreamWeaver inthewindOh that sun feels great today. I’m tired of the snow. I love being in the wind on my motorcycle. Now it’s time to plan that wonderful summer trip that I’ve wanted. It’s been a couple of years since I have had the pleasure to see the sites throughout Michigan and after the Full Circle Breast Cancer Motorcycle ride on June 18th, I’m taking a trip. Let’s see. I have my new rain gear from Grand Rapids Harley-Davidson. I picked that up when I stopped in to get the Rider’s Edge motorcycle safety class schedule. I enjoy coaching motorcycle safety with that team. I have the new exhaust on the bike and the fluids are new. PK did a great job with the tuning and the new brakes on the front bring a peace of mind.

I think I’ll head out from Montrose on M-57 west. I’ll take that all the way to US 31. I love riding along the coast line so maybe I’ll cruise on over to Muskegon and head north from there on 31. If I hit night fall in Traverse City, that will be awesome. The Harley shop in Traverse City is always a stop on my travels. I have purchased two Electra Glide Classics there and the sales team is very helpful. It will be nice to say hello and get me a new shirt. I’ll stay at the Holiday Inn that night. I like sitting on the waters edge and just relaxing. After some great food downtown and a nice walk along the storefronts I think I’ll head back to the room and enjoy that hot tub before heading to the balcony with my favorite beverage from the local brew company and watch the sun set.

The next day I believe I will head out after breakfast to the east and north. I think I’ll make my way up to the mighty Mackinaw Bridge. I’m going to ride the tunnel of trees on my way to the bridge. The trees make a cover over the road and it has a lot of twists and small switch-backs. I remember when I took the tunnel of trees a few years ago. It was fall and the sand had built up on some of the curves. It was an awakening moment when the back tire decided to go a direction of its own. I slowed down after that. I like stopping at Zip’s Harley-Davidson shop in downtown Mackinaw. There might be a new set of sunglasses that I can get and surely a t-shirt. The trip across the Mighty Mac is always a favorite of mine. I try to get on the grid and just relax. I sit upright and let the front tire go back and forth at it’s own pace. Lunch in St. Ignace it will be. I think I will stay in St. Ignace that night. That way I can park the bike and hit the local watering hole. I can hand out some Thunder Roads magazines and meet some of the local folks. I get so many stories to write about from the people that I meet. A cold beer and a few new friends will be a great way to finish a day in the UP.

I have to head back on the third day so I better get up early. I will head south down US 23. There are some great sites along that route and it

is nice to take a breather along the beach and take in the sights along Lake Huron. Oscoda and Tawas are idea stops for some great food or ice cream. I like walking out on the docks and looking at the boats. Some of the boat owners will talk, but most just go about their business. I like that. I do that too. After a visit to the water it will be time to head back home. I’ll take 23 to 13 then head to the horse barn in Kawkawlin. Mike, the barn owner might be there for a visit, but he’ll probably be rid-ing his bike. Even on weekends when we ride, the horses still have to be taken care of. Someone else feeds them, but someone has to, you know what? But they are worth it. From the barn its home to get ready for work the next day.

Ring Ring says the telephone!!! Ring Ring!! Hellooo (with a weak voice). Hey Treeman, it’s Joe from Thunder Roads. Hey Joe, what’s up? (grrr) Hey Treeman do you have that article for next month? Uh, yes, kinda. Hey Treeman, when can I get that article? Were you sleep-ing? Well, kinda. Just dreaming about riding my motorcycle. Dream-ing? Treeman you must have cabin fever bad. Yes Joe, I do. Well, tell me when that article is finished. Um Joe, I’m almost done. I have to put some finishing touches on it and I’ll send it over to you. Thanks Tree-man, I look forward to seeing it and dude, you need to go polish up that bike. It’s almost time to ride again! Amen Joe, I’m with you on that.

And so it is my friends, soon it will be time to make sure the motor-cycles are ready to ride. Until we meet again,

Rock on and Rock hard,

Salute and God Bless,

Treeman


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ABC Harley- davidson4405 Highland RdWaterford, MI. 48328248-674-3175www.abcharleydavidson.com

Battle Creek Harley-davidson5738 Beckley Rd.Battle Creek, MI. 49015269-979-2233

Big d’s Trikes & Bikes6306 East US 223Palmyra, MI. 49268517-759-3236

Blackbeard Powersports36745 Groesbeck Hwy.Clinton Twp., MI. 48035586-792-2626www.blackbeardpowersports.com

davidson Express107 E. Allegan St., Otsego MI 49078269-694-9579

Forest Cycle worksBig dog Motorcycles2109 Dort Hwy., Flint, MI. 48506810-239-6480

gildner’s Harley-davidson2723 S. M 76West Branch, MI. 48661989-345-1330 www.gildnershd.com

great Lakes Harley-davidson3850 S. Huron Rd., Bay City, MI. 48706 989-686-0400www.greatlakeshd.com

Motor City Harley davidson34900 Grand River Ave.Farmington Hills, MI. 48335248-473-7433www.motorcityharley.com

Planet Powersports647 E. Chicago Rd. US 12Coldwater, MI. 49036866-686-0859www.planet-powersports.com

wolverine Harley davidson44660 N. Gratiot Ave.Clinton Twp., MI. 48036586-463-7700www.wolverinehd.com

2 Orange Harleys 74000 M-40, Lawton, MI. 49065269-624-4574 www.2orangeharleys.com

American wings Powersports32640 E. Michigan Ave. Suite CWayne, MI. 48184734-727-4903 www.awpowersports.com

Bikergarage101.Com3950 Arrow Dr.Oscoda, Mi. 48750 989-569-3660www.bikergarage101.com

Cad to Chrome-Trike Conversion 110 S. Main St, Oakley, Mi.989-845-4110www.cadtochrome.com

rEd ArrOw CyCLE9540 Stadium DriveKalamazoo, MI 49009269-978-8433Service HD/ Metric/Sportbike/ATV

rick’s Custom Cycle31532 Ford rd.garden City, Mi. 48135734-762-2077www.rickscustomcycle.com

riverside Auto & Motorcycle Parts & Service104 N. State St, .Oscoda, MI. 48750989-739-0930

Thunder Allee Cycles 4164 Lake St., Bridgman, MI. 49106269-465-4133www.thunderalleecycles.com

Timberwolf Cycle3668 Bay Rd., Saginaw, MI. 48603989-497-8282 / 866-497-8282 toll freewww.timberwolfcycle.com

Clyde’s Frame & wheel725 Cesar E. Chavez AvePontiac, MI 48340248-338-0323

Jim’s Trailers Sales LLCLansing, MI. 48911517-887-2043www.neomfg.com

west Branch nAPA Auto, Truck & Trailer Parts129 N 5th St. West Branch, Mi. 48661989-345-7450 / 800-242-6124www.wbtrailer.com

Clor Cycle125 S. Miller Rd., Saginaw, MI 48609989-781-2636www.clorcycle.com

d & B Cycle 21251 Groesbeck HwyWarren, MI. 48089 586-447-1234Dyno Tune

Fred’s Bikes & Trikes27477 Schoolcraft Rd Livonia, MI. 48150 734-522-2343 www.fredsbikesandtrikes.com

Hunt’s Hog Shop3030 S. Cedar St. Lansing, MI. 48910517-394-7840 www.huntshogshop.com

Jerry B’s Cycle works25430 Harper AveSt. Clair Shores, MI. 48081 586-773-BIKE

M & C Cycle 133 E Huron St., Bad Axe, Mi. 48413989-269-7141www.mccycle.net

McCord’s All American Cycle Shop LLC7461 Murray Rd.Jackson, Mi. 49201517-783-1253 www.mccordcycle.com

Pro1 Cycle944 E. Emmett St.Battle Creek, MI 49014 269-441-PRO1 www.pro1cycle.com

M43 Powersports327 E. Saginaw Hwy.Grand Ledge, Mi. 48837517-925-8154www.rccsportbike.com

Dealers & Service

MC Parts & Service Trailer Sales & Service

If You Are A Biker Friendly Business

And Would Like To See Your Business Listed And Receive Thunder

Roads Magazines Each Month

Call 989-861-0682 (BFd Listing only $240 per year)

READERSPick Up Your Copy Of

Thunder Roads Magazines Each

Month At These Fine Locations.


10th Street Saloon136 n Main St.Plainwell, MI. 49080269-685-9595Bike night Tuesday

Longbranch Saloon Eatery & Bar 606 Spruce St.Vicksburg, Mi. 49097269-649-1961www.longbranchsaloonmi.comBike night Tuesday

The gravel Pit Pub & grub 7990 N. Telegraph Rd.Newport, MI. 48166734-586-8600See us on Facebookwednesday Bike night

Timber’s Steak House 6569 East County Line Rd.South Branch, Mi. 48761989-257-3230wednesday Bike night

Quaker Steak & Lube 4515 28th St.Grand Rapids, MI. 616-285-9464www.thelube.comwednesday Bike night

iron Horse Bar & grill 3592 Main St.Akron, MI. 48701989-691-5761wednesday Bike night

Boomers 6650 Highland RdWaterford, MI. 48327248-666-6080Thursday Bike night

Stingers Bar & grill 49110 Grand River AveWixom, MI. 48393248-449-9667Thursday Bike night

wil Lew Lounge 3005 E. Midland RdBay City, MI. 48706989-684-9109Thursday Bike night

Hurt Me Tommy-rock BandFind Us on Myspace & FacebookContact JD @ 269-343-1804Parties, Weddings, Bike Nights, Bars

Barefoot Beach resort7474 N US 23Oscoda, MI. 48750989-739-1818www.barefoot-beach.com

2-Tone24359 Red Arrow Hwy.Mattawan, MI. 49071269-720-0694

Bro’s Manufacturing LLCCustom Frames2653 7th St. Muskegon MI. 49444231-578-6079 www.brosmfg.com

Chop docs Choppers5275 Dixie HwyWaterford, MI. 48329 248-255-5095www.chopdocschoppers.com

S & M Custom Powder Coating37920 371/2 St.Paw Paw , MI 49079269-998-2720

XTrAOrdinAir1040 Veto St. NWGrand Rapids, MI. 49504616-458-5925

AM Leather30759 Eureka Rd.Romulus, MI. 48174734-946-4663

J & J western Store14241 US 12Brooklyn, MI. 49230517-592-2813

June’s Taylor & dry Cleaning25924 Five Mile RdRedford, MI. 48239313-535-2270

Hunt’s Hog Shop3030 S. Cedar St.Lansing, MI. 48910517-394-7840

Leather Works57695 Van DykeWashington, MI. 48094586-786-3050www.mcleatherworks.com

retail warehouse1640 S Centerville Rd.Sturgis, MI. 49091269-651-2464

Cycle insurance SpecialistsVanduren-irving west insurance2140 44th ST. SEGrand Rapids, MI. 49508800-815-9372 www.bestbikerate.com

Fun Protection insurance16223 E. Nine Mile RdEastpointe, MI. 48021800-447-2691/www.funprotection.com

Mid-Valley insurance9080 Gratiot Rd.Saginaw, MI 48609989-781-3070 / www.midv.net

Coyote Crossing resortRestaurant/Bar, 10 Deluxe Cabins8593 S. 13 Rd., Cadillac, MI231-862-3212www.coyotecrossingresort.com

dT’s Food & Spirits10980 Dunnigan, Emmett, MI 48022810-384-8100

inn Between Saloon4711 E. Kinde Rd.Port Hope, MI. 48468 989-428-3522

Legends Sports Bar & grille1027 E. Michigan Ave.Paw Paw, MI 49079269-415-0123www.legendssportspark.com

Michigan Brewing Co 1093 Highview Dr. Webberville, MI. 48892 517-521-3600

rOAd HOuSE 70 Grand Ledge Hwy. (M-43)7 Miles W. of Grand Ledge MI.Mulliken, MI. 48861517-649-8556

road runners177 S Main St.Vermontville MI 49096 517-726-1043

Shot n Shell201 Woodside AveEssexville, MI. 48732989-894-4290

Village Hide-A-way111 E. Prairie St. VicksburgMI 49097269-649-3134Drink & Food Specials

Leather & Repair

Custom Painting & Fabrication

Bars & Restaurants

Insurance

Lodging & Camping

Entertainment

Bike Nights


diamond PhotoTom Rossman 586-899-7442www.myspace.com/tom_diamondphoto

Crusecom Technology Consultants4238 California StreetOscoda, MI 48750989-739-5070 www.crusecom.com

Endless Hair designs590 E. Rose City Rd.Rose City, MI. 48654989-685-8400Bikers Specials

Pineview grocery & gas3277 w river rd. Sanford, Mi 48657989-687-5267

rourke BuildersHome Remodeling & AdditionsFREE EstimatesCall Randy @ 989-739-3501Serving Northern MI.

Steensma Lawn & PowerKalamazoo / Plainwell269-375-6476 / 269-685-9557www.steensmalawn.comJohn Deere / Stihl / Exmark / Trailers

Miscellaneous

Web Design

Photography

BIKE NIGHTSOUR ADVERTISERS’

Advertise your Bike night with Thunder roads Magazine of Michigan and your Bike night Could Be Listed Here Too.

Call or E-mail for More information989.861.0682 / [email protected]

Monday

red Ox Tavern (utica)

Tuesday

Hooters (grand rapids, Kalamazoo, novi)Hooters (Lansing, Flint, roseville, Taylor)

Wednesday

FastTrax (Kalamazoo)Quaker Steak (grand rapids)

roadhouse Bar (Paw Paw)Shifters ( Kalamazoo)

Timbers SH (South Branch)wagon wheel (Portland)

Thursday

Boomer’s rH (Clarkston)Stingers Bar (wixom)

wil Lew Lounge (Bay City)

Friday

gibraltar Trade Ctr (Mt Clemens)

Get Thunder Roads Magazine of Michigan Delivered To Your Home or Business.One year (12 issues) subscription is only $30.

Name___________________________________

Address_________________________________

City____________________________________

State_________________ Zip_______________

Make Check payable to: Thunder Roads of MichiganMail check and this form to: Thunder Roads of MichiganP.O. Box 56, Oscoda MI 48750



Biking with a PassengerAnyone who has ridden a motorcycle knows that it can be exhilarating and fun. And there are times when a biker may want to travel with a passenger. Riding with a passenger can be a great experience for both the driver and the passenger, but it is important that the proper preparations are made to ensure your safety. The most important thing to remember when considering riding with a passenger is that both of you must be comfortable. You should be an experienced motorcyclist and comfort-able with your skills and your bike before adding a passenger to the mix. If your riding companion is scared or nervous, it can make a big difference in the way they react, which can affect the bike’s handling. The passenger must be able to relax and work with the driver. The passenger should also be alert and act as another set of eyes and ears out on the road. The first step in making a passenger feel comfortable is a prepared driver.Start by making sure your bike is capable of carrying two people. You may need to adjust your suspension to accommodate the extra weight, so check your owner’s manual before heading out. Be sure you have a seat that can comfortably accommodate two. In addition, talk to your passenger about what their responsibilities are out on the road. Don’t assume they know.

Before Riding

• Protective Gear – Make sure your passenger knows that they need to wear a helmet, jacket, gloves, boots and long pants if they are going to be riding with you. The proper attire can help reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident.

• Mounting – Explain to your passenger that the rider mounts first, gets the bike pointed in the right direction and has the bike completely under control before the passenger mounts. The passenger should always mount and dismount the bike from the left side by first putting a foot on the peg and then swinging the other leg over the seat. They should try to keep their weight as evenly distributed as possible.

• Feet on the Pegs – Once on the bike, it’s important that the passenger keep both feet on the pegs at all times, unless the driver indicates otherwise. If the rider takes their feet off the pegs, it can throw off the distribution of weight and cause the bike to tip. In some states, the law requires foot pegs for passengers, so make sure you know what the guidelines in your state are before you head out.

During the Ride

• Practice – Let your passenger know that their added weight can cause the bike to handle differently. Find a large parking lot or a straight section of road and take the time to practice braking and stopping so both you and your passenger can get used to the feel of it.

• Braking – Weight distribution will change as the bike comes to a stop. The quicker the braking, the more sudden the change in weight distribution. As you come to a stop, your passenger will automatically lurch forward. To minimize the effects of the shift in weight, make sure your passenger keeps their feet on the foot pegs and holds on to the driver around the waist, at the hips or by the belt. As the driver, you should leave plenty of time for braking to avoid abrupt stops.

• Leaning – Instruct your passenger to lean with the bike while turning or around corners. They should lean gently and avoid sudden movements. The passenger should hold on to the driver and move with the movement of the bike and driver. If your passenger has never ridden a cycle before, you should not take any high-speed turns until they understand leaning and can do it properly.

• Turning – When turning, it is important that the passenger move with the driver and help maintain the stability of the bike. Again, this is best accomplished by having the passenger hold on to the driver, counterbalance to keep the weight evenly distributed and avoid any abrupt movements.

• Stop Often – Be sure that both you and your passenger have ample opportunity to get off the bike, stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. It will help keep both of you alert and make he ride more enjoyable.

Riding with a passenger can be safe and fun if you provide these tips to your passenger, talk through their responsibili-ties and yours, and practice until you’re both comfortable before heading out on the road. If your passenger moves in synch with the bike and the driver, maintains evenly centered weight distribution, holds on to the driver and is relaxed and comfortable, you can have a great time riding. But remember, it all starts with a prepared driver who is confident and in control. Before heading out on the road, alone or with a companion, you should also make sure you have the right insurance policy to protect you from the unexpected. The companies of the Foremost Insurance Group have been providing spe-cialty insurance programs for over 50 years and they have the experience and expertise to offer a superior motorcycle insurance policy. A Foremost policy offers things like Safety Apparel Coverage, Optional Equipment Coverage, Towing and Roadside Assistance including Trip Interruption Coverage, flexible payment plans and money-saving discounts. Foremost has specially-trained claims representatives that handle only motorcycle and off-road vehicle claims – it’s not just one of the things they do, it’s all they do. We have the experience and expertise to handle claims quickly and fairly. For more information about a specialized Motorcycle insurance policy from Foremost, you can call: “Tim T.” your Biker Agent and Thunder Roads Rep. at T.A. Tenbusch, Ins, 248-840-2205 and see what he can offer with the Foremost Motorcycle program or any of his other specialized programs for off-road vehicles, mobile homes, motor homes, travel trailers, personal watercraft and boats!


EVENT

TED’S GUNSA small price to pay for personal protection

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www.tedsguns.com / 517-420-2438 / [email protected] Holt, Michigan

by appointment onlyTed Polichron licensed firearms dealer

Au thor i z ed Beezers Custom CyclesYour HigH Performance advisor

Custom Builds • Repairs • Diagnostics Insurance Estimates & Work

AccessoriesCome see us at our nEW location

734-878-9909905 Patterson Lake road • Pinckney mi 48169

in the beautiful Irish Hills

Over 2000 Pairs Of Boots In Stock

Harley-Davidson® BootsMOtOrcycle APPArel

Biker Jackets•leather Vestschaps•Saddle Bags

Harley-Davidson® is a registered trademark of the Harley-Davidson® Motor Company

J & J Western Store14241 Us 12, Brooklyn, Mi 49230

(517) 592-2813Open 7 Days A Week 9:30am-5pm

Call for Sunday Hours

BIker JAcketS

from $99.00

cHAPS from

$79.00


the all-new 113-cubic-inch

Stratoliner® Deluxe10

Time to bag everything else.

• Comes standard with a fairing that includes integrated speakers and connector for iPod® players, plus a convenient, handlebar-mounted audio control system. • A pair of large, color-matched, locking hard sidebags make for excellent long hauls and short trips. • Electronic fuel injected, 113-cubic-inch (1854cc) air-cooled, pushrod V-twin produces great thrust at any speed. • The Star® Accessories Catalog is packed full of high-quality parts that invite Star owners to fully express their individuality.

Specifications subject to change without notice.

We build it. You make it your own.

the all-new 113-cubic-inch

Stratoliner® Deluxe10

Time to bag everything else.

• Comes standard with a fairing that includes integrated speakers and connector for iPod® players, plus a convenient, handlebar-mounted audio control system. • A pair of large, color-matched, locking hard sidebags make for excellent long hauls and short trips. • Electronic fuel injected, 113-cubic-inch (1854cc) air-cooled, pushrod V-twin produces great thrust at any speed. • The Star® Accessories Catalog is packed full of high-quality parts that invite Star owners to fully express their individuality.

Specifications subject to change without notice.

We build it. You make it your own.

Custom Connection Motorsports335 Helmer Road North • Battle Creek (Springfield) MI 49037

Phone: 269.288.0160 • Fax: 269.288.0164


Motorcycle Lawyers

You need a lawyer who rides.

Date post:	09-Mar-2016
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Thunder Roads Michigan April 2011

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