quickthrottle.com · 2012. 10. 6. · 2012 5. 6 2012 quick throttle northwest p.o. box 2241 port...
TRANSCRIPT
6 OCTOBER 2012
Quick Throttle NorthwestP.O. Box 2241 Port Orchard, WA. 98366 360-769-0408 - 360-769-0441E-Mail: [email protected]
Publisher Mike Dalgaard
Senior Editor Jan Dalgaard
Editor Diana Olmstead
Copyright Enforcement & Licensing: Ed Engle
Features Editor Janga
Advertising Diana Olmstead
Art Director Steven
WritersMike Dalgaard, Diana Olmstead,Chris Dalgaard, Janga, Jan Dalgaard, Easywriter, Chas. Bogle, Gary Mraz, Gary Gardner, Ray Seidel, Randy Twells, Lisa Dalgaard, BlackJack
WebmasterChrome Horse Promotions http://chrome-horse.net
PAGES 5 & 21 - LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHERPAGE 8 - RIDE AND EVENTS CALENDAR PAGE2 9-10 - 2013 H-D ROAD KING ROAD TESTPAGE 12 - SOUND H-D ROUND UPPAGE 14 - ROADSIGNSPAGES 16-17 - STURGIS 2012 PT. 1
PAGES 18-19 - UNION HOME RIDEPAGE 20 - BOOK REVIEWPAGES 22-24 - AHDRA NITRO DRAGSPAGE 26 - HARLEY HAR HARPAGE 27 - BIKER BUDDIES
PAGES 28-29 - BIKER FRIENDLYPAGE 30 - BIKER POETRYPAGES 32-33 - CONFESSIONS OF A NEWBIE ON THE COVER: “The Crypt”ARTIST: Chris Nielsen - To See More of Chris’s artwork visit: www.pentoolart.com
OCTOBER 2012 7
What the aforementioned weather did was to
keep attendance at events in the early part of
the season down. If the weather on the day of
an event looked dicey, people stayed home.
The threat of bad weather has a tendency to do
that, and when the weather prior to an event
was as wacky as ours was, the threat is taken
more seriously and more people stay home.
This affected turnout at the Children’s Ride,
BBB at the Triple X, Seaside and more. Overall
this happened all over the country as drought,
storms and ultra high temps dampened
attendance and diluted profits as well as
donations at charity events. One of the very
few events to dodge this bullet was the ABATE
Spring Opener that managed to significantly
increase turnout over 2011. This weather
pattern was further misery added to soaring
fuel prices, a slowly recovering economy, and
the general malaise and gloom and doom that
comes with the run up to each Presidential
election. Bottom line is that virtually every
major event that we have numbers on from all
over the country was down. Negative? Sorry
but those are the facts.
Adding to the lower numbers was the still
unfathomable practice of slamming dozens of
major events into two weekends in July, neatly
ignoring over a dozen other useable weekends,
and thus making sure that an already shrinking
pie is divided into even smaller pieces. This is
just plain STUPID, and yet each year sees more
and more events added to the second and third
weekends in July. The topper was that so many
of these promoters and organizers then turned
around and complained that their events were
down! Hello? Now rumors abound that at least
two huge events, including the Hell’s Canyon
Run, are considering a move to mid July. If
this is true then they need to rethink this.
Granted June weather hurt them but adding
to the mid July glut is simply not the answer to
the perceived problem.
The number one question we got all summer
from riders was, why are all these promoters
and organizers continuing to do this? Many
riders mentioned that there were several
events they wanted to go to but when they
are all bunched together you can only make
one or two of them thus diluting attendance.
Many wondered why the first two weekends
in August are virtually ignored. The answer to
that is what we have come to call the “Sturgis
Myth” – everyone goes to Sturgis so there will
be no one here to attend our event. We will
have more on the “Sturgis Myth” in follow up
letters over the coming months, but for now
the short answer is that the numbers simply
don’t bear out that contention.
Despite the disappointing turnout at many
events, riders and their friends as well as other
event attendees opened up their wallets and
their hearts as they always do and raised a
ton of money for a wide variety of charitable
causes and programs. Even on a gloomy day
the Sun was shinning for kids, vets, pets,
Cancer and heart care as well as many others
that depend on the well known charity of
bikers and their friends and families.
What about business and bike sales? Well
again we saw other factors step in and skew
those numbers when Harley and Victory both
decided to introduce their 2013 models 6-8
weeks later than last year. Consequently in
July, August and very early September, bike
sales nationally were down by 7% as dealers
had far less bikes to sell. Locally the average
drop seemed nearer 5%. Meanwhile in late
spring the long established Doyle’s H-D in
Eugene, Oregon answered the question “I
don’t promote, I don’t advertise and I don’t do
many events so what can go wrong?” by selling
out to Latus Motors of Gladstone, OR a nano
second prior to going out of business. We lost
some other shops as well, along with one of
our faves when Renegade Classics in Everett
closed its doors at the end of September. All
in all some 14 shops closed between April and
September. That’s always tough to watch. In
addition, the ABATE Fall Swap meet was
canceled at the last minute due to a dearth
of vendors. ABATE very correctly made this
decision rather then field a sub-standard event
and disappoint its loyal Swap Meet followers.
Hopefully we will see it back next year, but
meanwhile kudos to them for making a tough
call even though it cost them some money in
lost deposits and paid ads with us.
On the event front, the much ballyhooed “Run
to the Cascades” in September was shut down
by state and local police in Oregon based on
an expected confrontation between two rival
clubs. Concerns over public safety will trump
business every time. The closure preceded
the much anticipated Fog Hat concert that
was shut down as well. As we went to print
the financial losses and fallout have yet to be
fully determined. Critics say this will lead to
more and more events going “No Colors” as
have happened all over California and in many
other areas as well. Based on the shooting at
the Nugget last year in NV, this year’s “Street
As I am writing this we are in our 61st straight day of no rain. Yes, I know that technically that’s not true, as we had 1/10th of an inch on day 50, but lets face it folks, in the NW that mist hardly counts as rain. TV weathermen are wimps and we all know it. The weather has been weird, wild, and wacky and in late June and early July it was all happening each day. More Thunderstorms in that period than in the previous 18 summers that I have been up here followed by intense heat, then unseasonably cold weather, and on to this long, almost record setting dry spell. Bottom line is that it dramatically affected the ride season and contributed to what many say was a very disappointing season overall. When I say that many found this season disappointing, it’s because many did, and told us that. With Oyster Run just days away thus ending the season, it’s time for a review and some updates.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 21
10 OCTOBER 2012
IF YOU DON’T SEE YOUR EVENT, IT’S BECAUSE YOU DID NOT NOTIFY US!CONTACT US DIRECTLY WITH DETAILS OF YOUR EVENT: [email protected] or mail to:Quick Throttle NW, Box 2241, Port Orchard, WA. 98366 or Fax To: 360 769 0441by the10th of each month. PLEASE NOTE: We do NOT update this calendar on line between issues. OCTOBER
OCT 6OR* 9TH ANNUAL GRANTS PASS TOY RUN. 1pm. Parade with Santa, BBQ, potluck, auction. Contests, awards, prizes. Fruitdale Grange, 1440 Parkdale Dr, Grants Pass. Info: Spanky 541 659 8715 [email protected] OCT 6WA* “COME RIDE WITH ME” A BREAST CANCER FUND-RAISER POKER RUN. 830am. $20 prereg, $30 day of. Incl long-sleeve T-shirt. Capt Jacks B&G, Sumner. Info Beth 253 403 3038 www.multicare.org/home/motorcycle-ride OCT 6WA* JR’S HIDEAWAY MOTORCYCLE SWAP MEET. Free admission, all ages. Jr’s Hideaway, 22540 NE State Rt 3, Belfair. More info: 360 275 4547 or www.hideaway-jrs.com (See Ad Pg 16)OCT 6WA* COLUMBIA MOTORCYCLE’S 68TH ANNIVERSARY BBQ. 9am-3pm. Columbia Harley-Davidson, 1314 NE 102nd ST, Vancouver, WA. 360 695 8831 OCT 6WA* FILL THE CUPS RIDE TO BENEFIT BREAST CANCER. Reg 830-1030am. $20. All welcome. Rattlesnake Mountain Harley-Davidson, 3305 W. 19th Ave, Kennewick, WA 99338. 509 735 1117 www.rattlesnakemountainhd.com info: [email protected] OCT 13WA* BASH TURKEY RUN. Leaves 10am. $20. food donations welcome. Providing turkey dinner for 500 needy families. 50/50, prizes. Starts BASH Office, 118 141 St Ct s, Tacoma, ends The Right Spot B&G. info: 253 536 6480 or 253 380 6534 OCT 19WA* NORTHWEST H-D LADIES GARAGE PARTY. 6-8pm. First 25 to RSVP receive good bags. RSVP Tina, 360 705 8515, Northwest Harley-Davidson, 8000 Freedom Lane NE, Lacey, WA. www.nwharley.com (See Ad Pg 7)OCT 19-21CA* AMERICAN HEAT MOTORCYCLE RALLY. Street party, stunt shows, entertainment, vendors, much more. Benefits local charities. Info: www.road-shows.com/american_heat.php OCT 24WA* DOWNTOWN HARLEY-DAVIDSON CO-ED TECH NITE. Master techs answer questions about your bike, etc. 25 spots only. RSVP to [email protected]. 3715 East Valley Rd, Renton, WA, 425-988-2100, www.downtownharley.com (See Ad Pg 2)OCT 27WA* SOUND H-D CHILLY COOK-OFF CONTEST. 12-2pm. Sound Harley-Davidson, 16212 Smokey Point Blvd, Marysville, WA, 360 454 5000, soundharley.com OCT 27WA* DOWNTOWN HARLEY-DAVIDSON HARLEY HALLOWWEN PARTY. 12-3pm. Pumpking carving contest. Winner gets gift card. 3715 East Valley Rd, Renton, WA, 425-988-2100, www.downtownharley.com (See Ad Pg 2)OCT 27WA* JR’S HIDEAWAY HALLOWEEN PARTY. Live music & costume contest. Jr’s Hideaway, 22540 NE State Rt 3, Belfair. More info: 360 275 4547 or www.hideaway-jrs.com (See Ad Pg 16)
OCT 27WA* MANCHESTER PUB HALLOWEEN PARTY. Live music & costume contest. Manchester Pub, 2350 Colchester Dr. E, Manchester, WA, 360 871 2205, manchesterpub.com (See Ad Pg 25)OCT 27WA* JUNCTION ANNUAL HALLOWEEN PARTY. Live Music by EXIT 88. Costume Party & Prizes. The Junction Sports Bar & Grill, 21000 Old Hwy 99 SW, Grand Mound WA, 360 273 7586, www.meetatthejunction.com (See Ad Pg 25)OCT 27WA*NIGHTMARE BALL AT THE QUINAULT. $15 per ticket. 9pm-1am.Costume contest, $3,500 in prize giveaways. Blacklight dancing, food & fun. Special room rates, book now. Quinault Beach Resort & Casino, 78 St. Rt 115, Ocean Shores, WA, 1 888 461 2214, www.quinaultbeachresort.com (See Ad Inside Back Cover)OCT 28WA* NW CLASSIC MC 3RD ANNUAL HALLOWEEN SWAP MEET AT THE HUMANE SOCIETY. 9am. $5. Spokane Humane Society, 6607 N. Havana St, Spokane. Info: Bootmaker 509 294 1249 or Grover 509 939 9911 www.nwclassicmotorcycleclub.com
NOVEMBERNOV 8WA* WING-DING TO SUPPORT TOY RUN FOR
HARRISON MEDICAL CTR. 6-9PM. Free hot wings, 50/50, prizes, band. Donate new unwrapped toy. By NK ABATE. Romeo’s B&G, 6812 Kitsap Way, Bremerton. Info: 360 307 9736 NOV 10WA* SOUND H-D ANNUAL LADIES NIGHT. 6-9PM. Holiday fashion show, prizes, more. Sound Harley-Davidson, 16212 Smokey Point Blvd, Marysville, WA, 360 454 5000, soundharley.com NOV 15WA* WING-DING TO SUPPORT TOY RUN FOR HARRISON MEDICAL CTR. 6-9PM. Free hot wings, prizes, 50/50, band. Donate new unwrapped toy. NK ABATE. JR’s Hideaway, 22540 NE State Rt 3, Belfair. Info: 360 307 9736
DECEMBERDec 8WA* SOUND H-D FREE SANTA PICTURES. 11am-3pm. Sound Harley-Davidson, 16212 Smokey Point Blvd, Marysville, WA, 360 454 5000, soundharley.com
Dec 1WA* 35th ANNUAL OLYMPIA TOY RUN. $10 or new unwrapped toy. Gates open at 10am. Parade starts at 1pm. Bike staging off I-5, Exit 108, Sears parking lot, South Sound Center, Lacey Wa. 100% of proceeds benefit the Salvation Army “Toy n’ Joy” Shop. Info: www.olytoyrun.com (See Ad Pg 11)
WEEKLY EVENTS
MONDAY
First Mondays meetings COMBAT VETERANS UNITEDInfo: Mothergoose 1 509 460 0015, Yakima
TUESDAY
Taco TuesdayNASHVILLE’S114 Railroad Ave, Kent253 852 0909
BIKERS AGAINST CHILD ABUSE (BACA)Puget Sound Chapter meets 2nd Tues, each monthKing County Chapter meets 3rd Tues, each monthLake Washington Chapter meets 2nd Tues, each monthInfo: 253 228 6687 [email protected]
THURSDAY
Taco ThursdaysNASHVILLE’S114 Railroad Ave, Kent253 852 0909Every 3rd Thurs. 7pm B.A.C.A. Apple Valley Chapter The Red Lion, [email protected]
B.A.C.A. Blue MT CH. 1st Thursday630pm Sheri’s, Pendleton, OR541 310 8355 [email protected]
Taco ThursdaysMANCHESTER PUB2350 Colchester Dr. E, Manchester, WA360 871 2205
UNCLE SAM’S AMERICAN B>acos all day, band16003 Pacific Ave Spanaway, WA 253 507 7808
BLUE MT BACA1st Thursday 630pmSheri’s, Pendleton, OR541 310 8355
THUNDER THURSDAYSCruisers Biker B & GPost Falls, ID (starts Apr 26)www.cruisersstateline.com
Legend Harley-Davidson, 9625 Provost Rd NW Silverdale, WA. 360 698 3700. www.legendharleysilverdale.com
THURSDAY BIKE NIGHTSRock the Dock – Tacoma WaterfrontBegins Thursday, June 21st –
AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS post 141. 14096 SR 525, Langley, WA 630pm MTG info: Frank 425 422 1710
SAT & SUN
BIKERS FIGHTING CANCERN.Sound Chapter meets 2nd SatS. Sound Chapter meets 2nd Sunwww.bikersfightingcancer.org
SINISTER SATURDAYSLegend Harley-Davidson, 9625 Provost Rd NW, Silverdale, WA. 360 698 3700. www.legendharleysilverdale.com 2nd SATURDAYS 10am-2pmHot Dogs & ChiliColumbia Harley-Davidson, 1314 NE 102nd ST, Vancouver, WA. 360 695 8831
SATURDAYS 12-4SOUTH SOUND HOG BBQ, band, more.Northwest Harley-Davidson, 8000 Freedom Lane NW, Lacey, WA. 1 800 694 6447. www.nwharley.com
BIKER FRIENDLY CHURCHES
SUNDAYMidnight Cry Biker Church 5pmAssoc of Christian Crusader Ministry210 Ave B, Snohomish, WA 360 563 0471midnightcrychurch.com
NEW LIFE CHURCH27405 216th Ave, SEMaple Valley, WA 425 432 8 CITI POINT CHURCH830 N. 16 st, Mount Vernon, WA
GOSPEL OUTREACH MINISTRYJoseph, Oregon541 398 1142
CHRISTIAN FAITH CENTERS 253 943 240033645 20th Ave S, Federal Way13000 21st DR. SE, Everett 6575 Kimball Dr, Gig Harbor
FAITH BIBLE FELLOWSHIP2139 Fern StreetWalla Walla, WA 98362509-529-1281
Check your local dealers—Many have BBQs, Mystery Rides, Bands, Etc.
12 OCTOBER 2012
By Art HallPhotos by Art Hall and Roger Heffley
It’s all about finding the happy medium in just about everything we do. With regards to motorcycling for me, the happy medium is somewhere between a bone shaking rigid and an over the top reverse geared Goldwing that would be a car if it had two more wheels. Last month I did a review of a 2012 Street Glide (SG) and this month got a 2013 Road King (RK) Anniversary edition FLHRAE, (how’s that for an acronym?) Both had the 103 c.i. engine and the new (since 2009), frame which gave them comparable handling characteristics, but that’s where the similarities end. One of these is the compromise for me. I will try to stay focused on the RK but unfortunately most of what I say will have some slight or direct comparison to the SG (FLHX). So I go to the corporate fleet center and find they have reserved Number 3 - Of 1750 for my test bike, seems like they would have kept such a low number for that “special” customer. You can get a serialization plaque that displays your Anniversary Edition production number as an optional feature.
The first thing I do is a little walk about the bike to get some visual impression of general appearance. I must say this is one good looking bike with the special Anniversary Vintage Bronze (Root Beer Brown) paint job, two-toned with Anniversary Vintage Black (black is black) having some metalflake mixed in both colors and set off with orange & gold pinstriping. By the way - this seems to be the only color available. There is a rather prominent badge on the gas tank cast in bronze
with the bar and shield inset; most people seem to like it. The big “Hiawatha” headlamp splashes a lot of chrome on the front end and has the nostalgic look of yesteryear. The motor company chose to use the hard saddlebags rather than leather, OK but I have an issue with the ancient latching mechanism on these bags. Interesting note is that of all the available locations i.e. air cleaner, points cover, etc, to mention engine size none were used making me wonder if it was an old 96”. But fear not, it was that great, new engine the ‘torquey’ 103. Lastly something I appreciate is a large enough windshield to in fact shield me from the wind and this one had the large detachable RK unit. The two tone seat is a two-up design and has that deep contour which gives a nice comfortable feel with some support, and is accessorized with baroque brads.
So I get into this contoured puff pillow of a saddle and it feels right. When I grab the handlebars something seems different. I find that the FLHRAE is fitted with wide set handlebars. Well wide set doesn’t set well with me as it is uncomfortable on three fronts. Not trusting my own “feel” for the ergonomics I check the specs and do some measuring to find out the reason for my “feeling”. first the grip seems to poke the heel of my left hand in an uncomfortable fashion - reason - it is 1/8 of an inch shorter than my SG. Wow, only 1/8 of an inch proving size does matter! Why, you might ask don’t I just move my hand up on the grip? Good question and the answer is that I then find my thumb knuckle rubbing the switch housing which hurts a boo boo I have on the knuckle. It’s just too short for my hand anyway. Next I don’t like pulling the clutch lever because
I either pinch the pads on my fingertips or have a chafing from the lever. Hmmm ... so I measure again and find the lever is about half the radius of the SG or 1/4” verses 1/2” which changes the contour. The 1/2” SG lever is far more rounded and fits the grip comfortably while the RK is flatter with a bit of a sharp uncomfortable edge. Lastly the wide bars are in fact about 1 & 1/4 inch wider and require me to move just that much more forward to feel less than relaxing. All this sluething done, it proves that there is in fact a measurable difference that confirms my suspicions. While we are talking measurements I notice that the handlebars are about 1/4” askew, which is not really noticeable, unless you notice it. I don’t think there is an adjustment for that. One other obvious misalignment is the highway light and turn signal on the left side being quite crooked to the tune of 9/16 of an inch, noticeable even if you don’t notice it. That however I am sure is adjustable and probably just got overlooked in the setup.
Ready? Lets fire it up and get on the road. Again mentioning the frame, new since 2009, giving superb handling at slow speeds and confidence inspiring handling at highway speeds. Matched with the bigger 103” engine that has more horsepower and noticeably more torque, the new touring bikes are in fact smooth and strong for really good rideability. I know the touring bikes have adjustable air suspension but I have never really adjusted mine. I say this because I noticed that the freeway ride was obviously softer than my experience has been previously. The sharp jolts usually encountered on rough roads was much smoother which may have something to do with the adjustability of the shocks - or was there
OCTOBER 2012 13
some engineering change I didn’t uncover in my research? Even with the wrongly re-engineered clutch levers there has been some improvement in lessening the pull effort and it seems to engage more smoothly that the 2012 SG. That’s for go - for stop it’s the great 4 piston Brembo’s with ABS. The system may have saved my bacon at a blind alley intersection.
Now that we are moving I look for the gauges of which there are few, designed for the minimalist. We don’t really need an air temperature gauge that is inaccurate, or an oil pressure gauge to tell we are pushing zero at an idle or even a voltmeter that I have never really gotten the hang of over the old active ammeter. There is a gas gauge in the left side gas cap which I only use as a rough reference to my tanks actual fullness, or emptiness, depending on your perspective. It’s been around in this configuration on different models for a long time so I guess it has it’s usefulness. There is also a digital readout bar that contains extra information, one being the remaining miles you should have per the amount of gas calculated to be in the tank. I liked that feature better as it seemed more accurate or at least definitive as a number that I can relate to. Push the button on the dashboard and the readout changes to an odometer with a couple of trip counters also. All this is located in such a way as to be distracting when under way - in that you need to take you eyes off the road to view it, form over function here. Or maybe I’m just not supposed to try that...I do however miss the tachometer capable of handling the performance of an Indycar. I like to know, in numbers, what my engine is doing in any given gear. Again not necessary but an added item I find useful. All this kinda compares to the
SG as I had mentioned I might do earlier. I miss my radio which is something I didn’t think could happen for all the years I rode without one. Lastly I miss my big ‘ole shadetree batwing faring that puts all those semi-useful gauges in the line of sight while riding. This bike had cruise control - again like with the SG I didn’t use it so I cannot attest to it’s operation. The Dunlop multi-tread tires were a nice skinny whitewall that would be easy to keep clean and the wheels were chrome plated spokes. The six-speed transmission seemed to be smoother and easier to shift, maybe just my perception but that becomes the realty doesn’t it? Back to the Hiawatha headlamp - it really puts out the light along with the light bar highway lamp that actually project a beam you can easily see where you are going in the darkest of night. Put all these features together and you have a very useful, smooth riding, great looking motorcycle that may fit your needs and size. Myself I prefer the Street Glide for all the reasons given which is why there are different models to choose from. I must admit that I wanted nothing to do with the SG when it first came out as it was too popular and seemed faddish. Then I got to ride one for a few weeks and canceled my order for an Electra Glide Standard. Look we’re all different. Some want Softails. Some wanted to bridge the gap between Softail and Touring, hence the Road King. Then some still wanted a more pure tourer, but with more badass looks than the touring line, hence the Street Glide. I suggest you try them all before you make your decision as even though they may look the same, they don’t all act the same.
14 OCTOBER 2012
YeeHaw! Sound H-D’s 6 Year Anniversary Round-Up!Written by Diana OlmsteadOn Saturday September 8th, Sound H-D celebrated their 6th Anniversary with an old fashioned western round-up!
Everything about this event was great – the weather was fantastic, the western theme was unique, fun and a huge hit as the dealership was packed inside and out all day long with well over 1,000 riders attending!
The HWY 9 Band was on stage rocking country tunes throughout the day. There were Western cut-outs for people to take their pictures in.
A mechanical bull had been set up in the parking lot which was a riot to watch! They had a contest to see who could stay on the bucking bull the longest. The winner stayed on for 1 minute and 30 seconds and won a $500 Gift Card to Sound H-D. They also had a Best In the West Mustache Contest. The customers cast their votes and they chose a winner, Rodney who won a $250 Gift Card to Sound H-D. Next up was the Biggest Belt Buckle Contest, which went to a cute little boy who also also won a $250 Gift Card.
In addition to the contests, Sound H-D gave away over $5,000 in prizes – leather jackets, iron rider bags, gift cards to local stores & restaurants, and an array of really cool things.
All of the food was free - Wild West BBQ loaded riders up with pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad and lemonade. Kettle Corn was there handing out bags and many different types of beverages too.
Sound H-D’s 6th Anniversary was a huge success! If you haven’t checked out Sound H-D in Marysville, WA now is the time. It’s a gorgeous dealership featuring a water tower that is a tribute to the original Harley-Davidson factory, an indoor/outdoor fireplace, café with Wi-Fi and a 30,000 sq ft showroom filled with Harley’s, Parts, Motorclothes and a Service Dept.
Patriot Ride - Sunday, Sept. 9thThe day after the Sound Anniversary Party an estimated 300 riders converged in the Sound H-D parking lot to take part in the Annual Patriot Ride put on by Puget Sound HOG Chapter. The ride was free, and it was to honor the men and women who protect our way of life and to show appreciation for Fire Fighters, Law Enforcement Officers, EMS Personnel and members of the Armed Forces both active and retired… and to remember the events of September 11th, 2001.
The scenic ride started at Sound H-D making its way through Arlington, Lake Stevens, Marysville and then returned to Sound H-D for a BBQ. The ride went off without a hitch due to the dedication of Evan Adolf, who was the ringleader of this event and a Puget Sound HOG member and Captain of the Snohomish County Fire District 7. In addition to Evan, numerous Puget Sound HOG Chapter members pitched in to handle various tasks. To insure that the route was safe they received assistance from local law enforcement agencies and fire districts.
This Patriot Ride was deeply touching; you could see the mixture of emotions on the riders faces as tears trickled down the cheeks of many.
16 OCTOBER 2012
You know, you’d think there was
an election coming up wouldn’t
you? I mean with all the signs
along the sides of the highway, the
endless commercials on TV (and
it’s only September as I write this,
it’s gonna get worse), and all the
“vote for me” postcards showing
up in the mailbox. Yep, it’s a sure
sign its fall.
You wouldn’t know it was fall by the weather though. I actually have nothing to complain about in that department —and that’s a first! We all love to complain about the weather here in the Northwest. It’s the state pastime. But you know, I don’t think I’ll ever complain about the weather again – or at least not as loud.
What changed my mind? Comparing what we have—at times as crummy as it is—with what is worse. We actually have it pretty good here. I realized this last month. When I go to the gym, I generally start my workout by doing a half hour on some aerobic torture device while watching CNN. Watching the news gets my heart rate up and the machine makes it go even higher. In theory this is supposed to burn fat, however my fat apparently loves going along for the ride and never leaves.
Early in August, hurricane Isaac was heading straight for Louisiana, and I’d watch the CNN graphic showing the spinning storm heading right for the Mississippi delta, as I climbed an endless stairway or spun away on an elliptical machine. Seeing that storm approach really hit home for me since earlier this year I stood at the end of the road there at the foot of the Mississippi— the end of Louisiana Highway 23. That storm ran aground right there and powered right up that road through Plaquemies Parish towards New Orleans, just like I did on my bike.
It hit home because I drove that road—down from New Orleans and back up. It was an eerie place. It suffered from massive devastation by hurricane Katrina seven years ago. It was like driving through 40 miles of abandoned waste land and it still hadn’t recovered, though there were some limited signs of life. The humidity and heat were oppressive in May, and I was hot and sticky. It wasn’t exactly fun, but I have a thing for “end of the road” places. I drove down to this one and passed hardly any cars the entire way on a four lane divided concrete paved road. Between the devastation, the sparse population, and the heat and humidity, it felt almost like driving through a post-apocalyptic world, and I honestly couldn’t wait to get out of there.
I watched as the CNN anchors stood on places I’d stood at or ridden by, only now they were knee deep in water. They were being blown to kingdom come, with sideways rain under dark ominous skies. Later in the day I watched as they tried to evacuate a nursing home I’d driven past, using small rowboats. I saw what was left of homes and trailers floating in the water, and I thanked God I didn’t have that here.
Meanwhile our weather here was glorious, as it has been all summer, and I thought I’d treat myself to a weekend getaway on the scoot. The day that storm hit Louisiana, I headed up one of my favorite roads, WA-9 between Bothell and up to Sedro Wooley, and then turned east on to WA-20, the North Cascades Highway overt to Winthrop. The sun was out, it was warm, the air was fresh, and the scenery was indescribable.
As I was enjoying the road, leaning into the curves, feeling the rumble of the motor and the sun on my bare arms, I was picturing another road—LA-23. Nothing can compare, not the scenery, not the curves, and least of all, not the weather. I mean, as bad as it gets here sometimes with 100 days of rain and little sun, and years with no summer, at least we don’t get monster storms roaring up out of the ocean! No 90 mph gusts, and
rain measured in feet not inches. Our houses are not in danger of being blown off their foundations and out to sea. No oppressive heat and humidity. Yeah, I may grumble a bit about our weather, but after watching that storm roar up a road I’d ridden on—well I won’t complain anymore. At least about the weather.
I will complain about politics though. It is fall and election season after all. And while we can’t do anything about the weather, we can do something about politics. We can tune it out, or we can participate and try to change the wrongs we see. I know a lot of folks complain their vote doesn’t count or that politicians ignore them, that nothing changes. Well, in some cases they are right—but unlike some places, we can, and indeed I think we have a duty to participate. There are some countries where you can’t participate in the process. Here, we can participate, we do have a voice, and while it’s sometimes bad, more often than not, it’s like driving over the North Cascades highway on a sunny day, and that beats driving up the Mississippi delta any day, hurricane or not. Think about that. It could be a lot worse, and we are fortunate to live where we can participate and have a voice in politics.
So I’ll ask again—are you registered to vote? You can’t participate if you don’t vote and you can’t vote if you aren’t registered. Have you moved and updated your registration? If not, you need to so you can vote this year. You have a scant few days left to do so.
The deadline for registration or changing your registration is October 8th. The Washington Secretary of State’s office has made it very easy to both register and change your registration. You can do so online: http://www.sos.wa.gov/
No excuses, no complaining, just do it.
Gary can be reached at [email protected] and you can read his blog at http://grgardner.livejournal.com
18 OCTOBER 2012
STORY AND PHOTOS BY GEORGE CHILDRESS
There is really only one king of motorcycle rallies and great American road trips. Hail Sturgis!
The 72 year old Sturgis Black Hills Rally and Races has always been a destination where you can bring your highest expectations and never be disappointed because it offers something for everyone. This is no doubt one of the reasons why this year’s rally had an increase of over thirty thousand riders this year.
Some riders love the people watching mayhem on main street, getting a tattoo, doing burnouts, body shots at One Eyed Jacks, shopping over 700 vendors, watching the fights at the Knuckle Saloon, viewing custom bikes, and listening to the music at the multitude of concert venues. Many still enjoy the rally for the reason that it originated in the first place, the Jackpine Gypsy racing events and the exhilaration of riding the Black Hills. This is why I rode up to South Dakota a week early this year, to immerse myself in all the area could offer.
My usual Sturgis Rally go-fast game plan is one that consists of riding from Phoenix to Denver the first day and
arriving the next. On the way back I take the long way via super-scenic byways and undivided highways. This may include a route through Canada, the Pacific Coast Highway, Yellowstone, Sierra Nevada’s, the Rockies or any place where black colored roads on a map can be found.
Custer City was my base camp for exploration during this first week. Besides Hill City and Keystone, this is one of the best launching pads for exploring lakes and caves, Iron Mountain Road, Wildlife Loop Road, the Needles Highway, Crazy Horse and Mt. Rushmore. If you really want to get off the grid in this area then try a gravel road:
• Make a 1.7 mile detour from Highway 87 that takes you 6023 feet to the top of Mount Coolidge and its historic firetower, providing 360 views of the surrounding peaks including the famous Mt. Rushmore.
• Just north of Custer, turn east off of Hwy 89 on Willow Creek Road until it dead ends to visit historic Meeker Ranch which features rustic 1887 buildings in a majestic meadow setting. When the road ends walk .7 miles and watch for elk.
OCTOBER 2012 19
• Lakota Lake located just off Iron Mountain Road is the perfect spot to enjoy a shaded picnic break.
If riding over dirt roads and maneuvering the Black Hills pigtail bridges, hairpin curves and numerous tunnels aren’t producing enough adrenaline, thrill seekers and try a ride in an aerial chopper. I took several while I was there including one that flew over the main street of Sturgis, another over the The Badlands, and one that covered most the south central Black Hills. This flight takes you over Crazy Horse Monument, Sylvan Lake, the crest of Harney Peak, Mt Rushmore and the unique formations of the Needles and Cathedral Spires. (See www.coptertours.com)
While flying and riding the hills I saw plenty of wildlife including deer, antelope, bighorn sheep and bison. But when I got back to Sturgis the real wildlife was at Glencoe Campground resort which is exclusively open for the rally, having no other season. Here they feature what can only be described as the Sturgis version of Mardi Gras on steroids. It’s a nightly parade on Titty Alley with plenty of spirited adult activity that goes well beyond body painting. Be sure to get yourself a day pass next year and let the good time roll.
The only thing crazier than what happens on private property in surrounding campgrounds is the legendary weather in Sturgis. This year featured finer-than-fox-hair short-sleeve weather until the last two days. At this point hail pounded Lead while everyone ducked into their favorite watering hole in Sturgis on Friday and Saturday due to rain. The wind picked up before the storms to the extent that many people returned to their tent only to find that it had blown away.
I personally was blown away by the people that I came in contact with at Sturgis that were from all over the U.S. and the world. Not only the riders, but staff was brought in from places like the Czech Republic and Philippines.
One recently retired machinist from London paid $4000 to fly over with his Harley. He had been riding throughout the east coast, down to Florida, over to Sturgis and eventually would end up at the Grand Canyon. Another group from Australia rented bikes for 3
weeks and planned to hit many of the major national parks in the West in addition to their layover in the motorcycle meca of Sturgis.
But no matter where you are from or where you are headed next, like clockwork most people seem to head to Wyoming on Wednesday. The lure of Devils Tower is far too great too resist, not to mention Ham ‘n Jam in Hulett or the Stone House Saloon located near Belle Fourche (the geographic center of the US) that is also only open during Sturgis bike week. Wyoming Wednesday plus day trips to the Badlands and Wall Drug as well as Custer State Park is a must-do while attending the rally.
Don’t neglect to take the scenic Spearfish Canyon a few times, for many this is their favorite rally ride. You can set your cruise control at 35 mph and enjoy 20 miles of bliss along side a stream full of ponderosa and spruce pines.
I you don’t have a complete ride itinerary planned, no worries, there are plenty of organized rides like the Mayor’s Ride from Sturgis, the Legends Ride and Biker Belles rides in Deadwood and others to fit the bill.
When you have had enough riding, partying and shopping and just feel the need to be amused for awhile, then there is nothing better than racing. Sturgis has motocross, hill climbs, mini-sprint cars, short track and half mile races, even drags. So smoke “em if you got “em friends.
Sturgis is almost a metaphor for life itself: You aren’t here for a long time, but you’re here for a good time. Trying to do it all in one week is like drinking through a fire hose, so it pays to extend your stay by coming early or staying late. Pick your poison but you can depend on the rally to make you want to return yearly like one man I met who had attended 37 so far.
If you also cannot kick the Sturgis habit and won’t even pretend to try, then here are some future dates that you can count on:
August 5-11, 2013
August 4-10, 2014
August 3-9, 2015 (75th Anniversary)
20 OCTOBER 2012
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Beginning on Friday, Sept. 7th and ending Sunday,
Sept. 9th a brand new event, The Union Ride &
Charity Rally began its 3 day poker run. That’s
right, 3 days to hit 5 stops and have a shot at
winning a brand New 2012 H-D Street Bob, hear
great music, eat well, see the 9-11 Tribute Girders,
and take a leisurely, fun filled ride from Tacoma,
over the bridge and through all the beauty that
abounds on the Kitsap Peninsula, ending up at
the Clearwater casino, all for 25 bucks. ($35.00
w/passenger) This ride was different, fun and a
real bargain. We loved the leisurely 3 day concept.
You could also choose to do it in 2 days or a few
hours on Sunday. Lots of options, lots of choices,
and not totally at the mercy of the weather.
The event was primarily sponsored by Destination H-D in
Tacoma that donated the Street Bob, and Legend H-D in
Silverdale that ran the custom bike show. That show by the
way, had some very serious entries including my fave, a H-D
Springer done up in retro with a military theme and custom
paint job. Outta sight! Sponsors also included the Building
and Construction Trades, Suquamish Clearwater Casino,
and the Sheet Metal Workers International Assoc. Co-
Sponsors included IBEW Local 46, Alliance Pacific Ins, &
Sunrise Dental. All proceeds from the event benefitted local
charities including Seattle Children’s Hospital, Northwest
Harvest, Helmets to Hardhats, and Apprenticeship & Non
Traditional Employment for Women. Lots of additional
info can be found on the Union Home website at: www.unionhomebenefit.com
On Sunday, the Clearwater was really rockin’ with great
60’s tunes by the Weatherheads, and over 500 riders, union
members, their families and a host of supporters enjoying
the day. The lucky winner of the new Street Bob was Rick
Herrick. The bike show winners included Lester Walters,
Dan Friedel, Lanette Duchesneau & Clayton Alayon.
Information and dates on next year’s ride will be released
on October 31st and we will add it to our calendar at the
appropriate time. MD
22 OCTOBER 2012
By Famous Jake
Years ago, back in the seventies, I was reading at my desk while on light duty in the office while awaiting medical clearance to return to field work following an injury. I got called before the corporate board - not for slacking, which was expected, but because someone was offended by the nature of my reading material. It was an anthology of female poets but it had been given a racy title to pump up sales, something like “The Brazen Hussies”. I mean who would buy a book called “Maladjusted Manhaters Venting Venom”, even off the discount rack. This led to an assumption I was exposing coworkers to objectionable pornography, and I had the last laugh passing around this feminist tome for their scrutiny. All approved and I came off looking like the kind of neo-modern guy they just loved. I tell this story because it’s funny, dammit, and it pretty well sums up my qualifications to review a book of poetry. I read a lot, sometimes I read poetry, and sometimes I take crap for it. Just a misunderstood sensitive kinda guy, blowin’ by you on a sleek black machine at midnight. Hope that’s good enough as I agreed to comment on Laurence P. Scerri’s recently published volume of biker poetry entitled Asphalt Range.
I’ll start by saying I reject much of the poetry I encounter for being dense and outdated, no matter the authors legendary status. Most of the rest is excruciatingly self involved and whiney. No one cares about your broken heart or fear of your own imagined death. Too much is an exercise in obfuscation for those who prefer not to encumber themselves with punctuation or sentence structure. Frankly, a lot of the poetry I see in biker mags is moronic and maudlin. But once in a while someone has something to say worth hearing and expresses that creative spark poetically. I followed the work of a certain San Francisco hippie till he ran out of words and killed himself. I have somewhere a couple slim pamphlets of verse sold by a bent old man in the parking lot at a rodeo. His is a fascinating story of life on a homestead at the closing of the frontier era and all the changes that he’s witnessed since. It didn’t matter that “he learnt” to spell in a one room schoolhouse and it showed. That was rather the point, actually. And that brings
me to the current question: what’s up with this dude who calls himself the American Biker Poet and repeatedly cites his status as Poet Laureate of the Connecticut Cruise News? Say wha’? I don’t think we get that out here. Hell, I’m at least that famous and I freely admit to making it all up so okay, impress me.
Well he did. He’s a guy you know if you’ve been riding a Harley a while or hang with those who have. For thirty years he’s ridden and lived the story of an American Biker life. Not a guy who rides a motorcycle, but a capital “B” biker who interprets the world and shapes his life according to certain principles and protocols. A man of bedrock values recognizable anywhere in the heartland: faith, family, friendship, but one who sees himself as somehow being just out of step with the mainstream culture of the country he loves. He’s had lots of time to consider what it all means with a screamin’ demon freedom machine between his knees, the wind pushing and pulling by turns, and an equal amount of road ahead and behind. One day he started writing it all down and you will recognize the people he shared his journey with and to whom he pays homage. The crusty old-timer with a kind word for the wide-eyed kid staring speechless at his scoot. The brothers you rode with then and now, and the ones who are no longer with us, the women who came and went and the ones who stayed. He has carefully cultivated a certain look calculated to project a particular image, but is sensitive to being stereotyped. Hey, I didn’t say he always made sense, only that he tries to make sense of the world around him by riding and writing about it.
I don’t know if this is great literature. I nodded through English class the same as you. Shakespeare was a playwright, not a professor and his work was intended to entertain English peasants. Laurence P Scerri - oughta call em Scary Larry - intends to share something familiar with those who have been there and inform those who have insurance and aluminum siding but know they’ve missed something in life. Get yourself a copy and spend a little time with some old friends you haven’t met yet. If you read between the lines and ride between the ditches on the Asphalt Range, you just might get a chance to wave at yourself going the other way.
OCTOBER 2012 23
Vibrations” is no colors for the first time in its long history. By the way, this was not the promoter’s choice but rather a mandate from the Cities of Reno, Carson, and Virginia cities, as part of the permitting process. I expect we may see more of this in Oregon next year as a result of the Run to the Cascades shutdown. In Washington our clubs are all friendly and well-mannered so we simply don’t have these problems. Lets all work to keep it that way.
Meanwhile on the ‘Government front’ our state law enforcement still has not embraced enforcing the “No Hand Held Cell Phone Law.” We continue to see one moron after another whizzing by us in their 6,000 lb road tanks with a cell glued to an ear or in their laps texting a friend asking him how his bowel movement was that morning. C’mon guys, write some tickets. Tell you what. You up the ticket count on this law and we will campaign for a moratorium on donut-cop jokes. Deal?
Also in the “questionable” Government hopper is the decision by the Washington State Dept. of Licensing to shift ALL testing for motorcycle endorsements to local riding schools all over the state, thus “outsourcing” the way a significant number of new riders get their endorsements. Testing fees will be charged and the fees are not fixed but are determined by the schools. Now I can see an upside to this as many more people might be inclined to just take a full course which includes an end test, but I can also see some downsides, such as a perceived conflict of interest if you fail your test and are then “encouraged” to spend money on a course. Sort of the Fox and the hen house routine. We are looking into this and will be talking to several schools to get their take, and bring the results to you in a future article or as part of my monthly letter. Finally not to be outdone, the Feds have mandated that we all buy some of the new 15% ethanol based fuel that is hitting the market around the country as we speak. I am not sure how the Feds plan to enforce this but as we all know the current approval rating of our Congress is 9% and here is just one more reason to dislike the lazy, do-nothing-worthwhile, ideologically challenged morons who keep getting elected. I don’t know about your bike but my bikes HATE anything with Ethanol in it, and I simply avoid it by using brands without it. Many techs will echo that especially with Harleys.
Despite my churning out so many words on this rant, we have not even scratched the surface of all the ups and downs this season went through. Yes, there were some high points, such as the all new “Red Horse Rally” in Ellensburg that was a rousing success despite being hampered by one of the most destructive and pervasive fires the state of Washington has seen in many years. Ditto another new, and we hope ongoing event, The Union Rally and Ride that we cover in this issue. All the undaunted North westerners who rode out, despite the weather, fires, and other challenges, reported having a great time and a long season of memories to cherish. October looks to be a great riding month with more good weather predicted so let’s get out there and enjoy it while we can.
HAPPY HALLOWEEN! We will see you here next month!MD
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5
24 OCTOBER 2012
OCTOBER 2012 25
26 OCTOBER 2012
For a COMPLETE LIST of Class winners & more please visit: www.ahdra.comTo See More of Lillian and Mark’s work please go to: www.westcoastactionphotos.com
OCTOBER 2012 27
28 OCTOBER 2012
HOW TO SIMULATE BEING IN THE NAVY
1. Buy a dumpster, paint it gray inside and out. Live in it for 6 months.
2. Repaint your entire house every month.3. Renovate your bathroom. Build a wall across the middle of your
bathtub and move the shower head to chest level.4. Put lube oil in your humidifier, and set it on high.5. Once a month, take all major appliances apart and reassemble
them.6. Raise the thresholds and lower the headers of all your doors so
you either trip or bang your head every time you pass through them.
7. Disassemble and inspect your lawnmower every week.8. Raise your bed to within 6 inches of the ceiling so you can’t turn
over without getting out, then getting back in.9. Sleep on a shelf in your closet. Every 3 hours have your spouse
shine a light in your eyes and say, “Sorry, wrong rack.”10. Have your neighbor collect all your mail for a
month, read all your magazines, and lose every 5th item before giving it to you.
11. Watch no TV except for movies played in the middle of the night. Have your family vote on which movie to watch, then show a different one—the same one every night.
12. When your children are in bed asleep, run into their room with a megaphone shouting, “Now general quarters! All hands man your battle stations!”
13. Post a menu on the kitchen door informing your family they’re having steak for dinner. Make them wait in line for an hour, then tell them you are out of steak and give them hot dogs. Repeat daily.
14. Make your family turn out all lights and go to bed at 10pm. Then have an 18-wheeler crash into your house.
15. Next time there is a thunderstorm, find the biggest horse you can. Put a two-inch mattress on his back, strap yourself to it and turn him loose in a barn for six hours. Then get up and go to work.
16. Make coffee using 18 scoops of budget-priced coffee grounds per pot, and let it simmer for 5 hours before serving.
17. Have someone under the age of ten give you a haircut with sheep shears.
OCTOBER 2012 29
STEVIEGreat Pyrenees, Maremma Sheepdog mix
Herd guard dog job wanted: Weight at 4 months old is 50 pounds and expected to more than double as an adult. Calm, confident pup, excels at being sweet and endearing. Has beautiful outdoor coat. Looking for a home with folks who have
knowledge and experience with this breed, and lots of kibble. Got frisbee? Take a look at Stevie’s friends. Dogs with oodles of potential at this no-kill shelter. Check website. info:
S.P.O.T. (Saving Pets One at a Time)Po Box 211 Burlington, WA 98233
Phone 360 336 5388
e-mail: [email protected]
GOT SHEEP?
Blaze is just over the puppy stage, and ready to be an attentive, loving companion to her person. She’s a great looking, intelligent, active girl, with no fussy coat to worry about. She has been spayed, microchipped, has vacs, and comes with a free training session. Blaze is being cared for at Happy Paws Farm, a no-kill shelter, dedicated to saving dogs and cats that have been abused or are in some other way in need of care. The kind folks there also run a pet food bank for low-income pet owners, help with spay/neuter, vet care, and provide other help and education
where they can. They do it all on donations, and with volunteer helpers. They also accept car donations. There is a tremendous need for pet care in this area, so any help is appreciated. It’s all tax deductable. To meet Blaze email [email protected]
HUMANE SOCIETY AT HAPPYPAWS FARMArlington, WAPhone 360 652 5844www.saveourdogs.com Mail: 8304 Wayne AveStanwood, WA 98292
BLAZEBORDER COLLIE, LAB MIXI YEAR OLD
30 OCTOBER 2012
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32 OCTOBER 2012
KISMETBy Missy Mapp
“Zoom, Zoom,” the engine called to meI said, “How do you do?”The signal winked a time or threeMy mind was in a stew.
Chrome and paint shone so brightA voice that roared so loudThe racy-looking lines, the lightAll drew me from the crowd.
Closer then and closer IWas drawn to destinyOne bike brought a heavy sighThis beauty was for me.
My shaking hand touched the barCold metal chilled the boneI knew if this thing went too farI’d need to f loat a loan.
Threw my leg across the seatSat there being scaredFelt the engine running sweetAnd wondered if I dared.
Headlight gleamed a wicked leerMy throat was choked with frightThe muffler whispered in my ear“Hey, babe, let’s ride tonight.”
What could I do? I nearly f lippedWhat would people say?Just then the throttle fairly rippedAnd I was borne away.
QUAKING ASPENSBy Missy Mapp
The road was bound around with soundthat echoed off the treesthey stood there wound into the groundtrembling in their knees
Motorcycle under mewas making time unreala modern steed to set me freea charger made of steel
I wound past a bracken moorwind pulling at my earsmy heart pounded with the roaras I went through the gears
Sun and shadow played a gameleaves whispered as I passedeyes and heart soared into flamea soul come home at last
The road was bound around in soundthat echoed off the treesthey stood drowned, bound to the groundand trembled in their knees.
OCTOBER 2012 33
34 OCTOBER 2012
A few other guys at my office had Harley’s and I started asking them how a guy would find out if motorcycling was for him. My friend CA suggested I looking into a 750 cc cruiser of some kind as a “proof of concept” bike. You know, about $3000, and see if you like it. If not, then get rid of it. If you like it, then maybe in two years get your dream bike, etc...
I pondered this for a few months. One Sunday I was looking at Craigslist and saw one close by and called the guy. Before I knew what was happening, I was on my way over and putting cash in this guys hand and closing the deal. It was amazing.
I asked him for one last favor, could he ride the bike to my house because I didn’t know how to ride the bike. He laughed and said yes.
I had an endorsement on my license already from a scooter I bought a few years before and I had all the protective gear, but my MSF had expired and that was required by the military (I am active duty). I talked about how to ride at work and came home and rode it around my neighborhood. Not a very good rider, poor coordination, but I was able to ride!
Took the MSF course two days later, registered the bike, and voila! I was a rider!
I rode everywhere. Loved it. Started reading biker magazines, started studying Harley’s to decide what my dream bike was (you always need to know what your next bike will be right?). And what gorgeous bikes they were! Harley’s are jewelry for men!
Talked to the guy at my office, turns out he chose a used Heritage Softail 2008 Vivid Black. Looked at all of the Harleys and decided that the Heritage was my dream bike to get someday.
Well someday came on quick, because after a month I wanted a bigger bike! A reliable bike with a warranty. Wanted to take roadtrips...can you see where this is going? Telling my friends and family, I really want a Harley! And they can’t believe it, this isn’t the “me” they knew...
Well, one Tuesday I go visit a Harley dealership just to look at the bikes. I’m upstairs looking at the used bikes, gorgeous. The sales guy is showing me a 2010 Heritage and asks me if I’d like to test drive? I say, sure. I drive one and I decide I will get one right now. Amazing. So we are looking at the 2010 again and the guy says, “you know, for only about $2000 more you could get a new one with a 2 year warranty...Would you care to go downstairs and look at the new bikes?” I think about it for, like, one second and say, “Sure, let’s go take a look.”
I never rode before, never cared, ignored motorcycles, not a biker kind of guy. 53 years old. But I had room in my life for a hobby.
A guy at my office told me he was in the process of buying a Harley and I could tell that he was really excited about it but trying not to show it. He showed it to me and I was impressed. I never really looked at one before.
OCTOBER 2012 35
Well, 90 minutes later I left with ownership papers of my dream bike. A 2012 Heritage Softail, Vivid Black, with Big Shot Staggered Vance and Hines pipes, ABS and security system, 4 year warranty, a lot of extras.
Sold my 750cc in a day.
Put 6000 miles on the new Heritage in 3 months. Went to Sturgis for a week! We rode 1,000 miles on the roads in the Black Hills and Rapid City and Sturgis areas. Got to demo ride 5 other Harley models there, awesome!
About some of the pics: got the haircut a few weeks ago at a breast cancer fundraiser head shaving event, and now complete the biker transition ha ha. The girl kissing my head is a lady who had me bring her back a tshirt from Sturgis (Monica). The gang with me at the Profile view of Mt Rushmore were my crew from work at Strategic Command at Offutt Air Force Base where I work…They are all experienced Harley riders retired Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps officers and took me under their wings at Sturgis.
PS: a Newbie discovery that bikers do that cool lower 45 degree wave to each other with their left hands…no one ever talks about that. And when you are two-up you have the lady wave because you are now way to cool to wave. Love this stuff!
Cheers! John Kennedy
36 OCTOBER 2012
38 OCTOBER 2012
