Gasoline Magazine - Issue No.3

TOUGHTOUGHTIMES

CLOTHES FOR

AT PRICES THAT WILL GO EASY ON YOUR WALLET. AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WALMART.COM.

WHEN YOU WORK, YOUR CLOTHES SHOULD TOO.™WWW.JESSEJAMESWORKWEAR.COM

3www.gasolinemag.com

CONTENTFEATURE STORYScooter Shak ................................................ 26

OTHER SH*T INSIDEWords from Gasoline magazine ................... 5

Product Review .............................................. 6

Sturgis Rally ................................................... 8

August Events ............................................. 11

Gentlemans Desire ...................................... 12

August 2009 Poster ................................16-17

Larsons Way of Life ..................................... 18

Test Pilots Wanted ....................................... 21

Heating Things Up ....................................... 23

OUR ADVERTISERS Action Motor Sports ...................................... 3

Corral Sales RV ............................................ 31

Crazy D's Construction ............................... 30

Dakota Sanitation ........................................ 19

Deborah Kates Fine Photography .............. 15

Doll's Studios ................................................. 3

Drink, The ..................................................... 28

Full Throttle Motorsports ............................ 15

Guilty Customs ............................................ 25

High Plains Powder Coating ....................... 30

Hitman Industries ........................................ 32

Jesse James Workwear ................................. 2

Larsons Creative Concepts ........................ 29

Ma's Cycles .................................................. 22

Moritz Sport and Marine ............................... 7

NAPA of Mandan ............................................ 4

Open Road Honda ....................................... 10

Planet Powersportz ....................................... 4

Scooter Shak .................................................. 9

Shooters Images .......................................... 22

Silver Dollar Bar ............................................. 7

Stage Stop Saloon ......................................... 5

4 fuel your veins. gasoline

Owner/Publisher Chad Hatzenbuhler

Co-Owner/Chief Editor Dan Geiger

Feature Editor Scooter Pursley

Contributing WritersEdward MillerRussel Myers

Scooter Pursley

Layout and DesignBlack Sheep Design

Contributing PhotographyDan Geiger

Deborah KatesDon Kates

Russel MyersScooter Pursley

AdvertisingChad Hatzenbuhler

[email protected]

SubscriptionsGasoline magazine is offering

subscriptions to its viewers. Learn more at www.gasolinemag.com

Gasoline magazineMailing Address: 630 6th Ave. SE

Mandan, North Dakota 58554Phone: 701.202.0683 Email: [email protected]

Gasoline magazine is not liable for misprints, production errors, or accuracy of information provided by advertisers.

Reproduction in any form is prohibited unless written permission is granted by Gasoline magazine. We reserve the right to refuse publication of advertisers that are not

up to standard and quality of Gasoline magazine.

NAPA OF MANDAN400 East Main

Mandan, North Dakota 58554

(701) 663-AUTO(2886)


Hey Holmes, the boss is out and I thought I would sneak in my 2 cents. You’ve got the last issue of Gasoline magazine for 2009 in your hand right now! Gasp, sniffle, tear! Don’t worry though, the summer of ‘09 has been a test drive of sorts for Gasoline. So far, we’ve been hearing good things and getting great reviews from you guys. Based upon your words of encouragement, if you keep picking it up, we’re gonna keep putting new issues out there. We’re planning our 2010 season to be bigger and better. We know 3 issues isn’t really enough to keep you curious cats informed on the North Dakota motorcycle scene; so with that in mind, we are looking into adding more issues next year. Lucky you!

It’s been a great summer for us and we hope everyone enjoyed viewing our new FREE motorcycle magazine for North Dakota. Keep yourself updated on the happenings around Gasoline and our 2010 season by checking out www.gasolinemag.com. We’ll be updating weekly on the status of the mag. Shucks, we might even throw up some pics of our crew’s hijinx for your viewing pleasure! In addition, Gasoline magazine will also be offering many great deals for our viewers, fans and advertisers. Check it out!

Thank you for being a part of our first year and enjoy the magazine. See everyone very early next year, or.... sooner!

Dan GeigerCo-Owner / Chief Editor

Gasoline magazine630 6th Ave. SEMandan, North Dakota 58554Phone: 701.202.0683Email: [email protected]

words from

gasolinemagazine


Johnson Motors Inc. McQueen Stormrider Jacket:

Don’t be a dope and ride around wearing the same name brand crap every other yuppie has on. If you want to add a little retro coolness to your wardrobe, check out Johnson Motors Inc. They offer stuff like this McQueen Stormrider canvas jacket, as well as other sorts of non-crappy clothes for you and your chick. WWW.JOHNSONMOTORSINC.COM.

Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer (21+):

The world’s best tasting beer in a can. Pick up a 12 pack to solve common problems such as: thirst, heartache, or a stubborn Panhead that will not start

even after 200 kicks. A cooler full of ice cold PBRs is also

GASOLINE PRODUCT REVIEW

a good tool for gaining friends and will attract beautiful girls in bikinis. Notables who can be seen enjoying its moderately priced deliciousness: President Barack Obama and Ross Haibeck of the Scooter Shak.

Westbury Handcrafted Motorcycles:

If your wallet’s pretty fat you can get these guys to build you a whole bike. If your funds are a little tight after that visit to the gentlemen’s club last night, you can still pick up something pretty cool from Westbury. Take their ‘Big Baller’ crown gas

cap for example. It’s vented and includes a weld-on threaded bung. They also have a tasty

looking beehive oil filter you should check out. WWW.WESTBURYHOTRODS.COM.

Here at Gasoline we always look for products that our viewers would love to get their hands on. All products are hand-picked by the staff here at Gasoline, so if it’s in the magazine it just has to be cool. If you have products you think should be in here, contact us and let us know.


Justified Defiance Helmets:

You think wearing a helmet isn’t cool? I’ll tell you what’s not cool, busting your melon open when you fall off. Kill two birds by getting yourself a badass vintage helmet from Justified Defiance. You’ll be saving your brains and looking totally cool doing it. These helmets are so neat in fact, you may want to wear it as a fashion statement even when you’re not riding. Besides, better safe than sorry, right? WWW.JUSTIFIEDDEFIANCE.COM.

Falcon Motorcycles:

If you love nostalgic bikes but also have a sweet spot for customs, here’s a company that blends the two to perfection. You can check these guys out on the world wide web by going to WWW.FALCONMOTORCYCLES.COM. Or, if you’re in LA, just look ‘em up. They build some super clean bikes; expect to see a lot more out of them soon.


GET A BIKE:: It doesn’t matter what you ride. Most of the bikes at the rally are Harley-Davidsons, but there are many, many Hondas, Kawasakis, Yamahas, Victories, custom bikes and more. One thing to remember about bikes at Sturgis, when you think you have the sickest ride around, something rolls up next to you and beats you down.

GET EDUCATED ON RIDING IN CROWDS: It’s crowded. Boy, is it crowded. Before you go, learn what it’s like riding in non-stop traffic and burn those ABATE lessons into your skull. Sturgis virgins will be in awe of the noise, traffic and people. So slow it down and look around so as not to become one of the five to 10 bikers a year who don’t come home from the rally.

GET YOURSELF A WINGMAN: Anybody can ride to Sturgis, or trailer to Sturgis and ride there. It’s a lot more fun with a partner to share in the excitement. And since there isn’t much between the North Dakota border and the Black Hills, it’s nice to have someone along in case of an emergency.

GET A ROOM, OR A CAMPING SPOT: In my job, I get a room for four nights in Rapid City, then it’s off with a friend to find other arrangements. Last year we camped at Buffalo Chip (very noisy) and a nice place between Hill City and Keystone (very quiet). Your lodging will depend on whether you want concerts and booze-fueled parties that last all night or some sleep. There are many campgrounds along Interstate 90 and in the hills. Be sure to call early to get a spot. And be prepared for big-time prices in the hotels.

GET PACKING: When loading up the bike, don’t forget the rain gear,

THERE’S NOTHING QUITE LIKE THE BLACK HILLS RALLY, OR AS IT IS MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS, STURGIS. THOUSANDS OF BIKES AND BIKERS, MUSIC, SKIN, BOOZE, SCENERY, PRODUCTS, DISPLAYS, CELEBRITIES; THIS THING HAS IT ALL. IT’S A GREAT PLACE TO VISIT, BUT YOU NEED TO BE PREPARED FOR WHAT YOU’LL SEE AND DO THERE. ONE THING IS CERTAIN. NO TWO TRIPS TO THE RALLY ARE THE SAME. HERE’S A FEW TIPS TO MAKE YOUR RIDE A LITTLE MORE FUN.

STURGISTHE BIGGEST MOTORCYCLE EVENT OF THE YEAR! JUMP ON YOUR MOTORCYCLE AND HEAD TO STURGIS, SOUTH DAKOTA.By: Scooter PursleyPhoto Credits: Russel Myers


even if it’s for a short afternoon ride around the hills. If you’ve been there, you know that in the summer, it storms somewhere in the hills every day. If you’re caught in one of these, expect torrential rain and hail. I’ve waited out a rain and hail storm on the side of the road between Keystone and Rapid City. You get a funny feeling standing with four other people as hail beats off your helmets and lightning strikes around you and there’s no place to go.

GET GOING: There are several different ways to get there from here. My two favorites are south of Reeder through Reva, S.D., and through Newell into Sturgis; or south of Bowman down Highway 85 and into Belle Fourche. That’s a little longer but a nice ride. The store in Reva – about the only thing in Reva – is usually open extended hours during the rally as a gas and rest stop. It’s a nice ride from Reva to Newell. But watch out for deer and antelope, especially in South Dakota. A word of caution: Check with North Dakota and South Dakota departments of transportation on road work. Nothing

is worse than a 30-40 mile backtrack to avoid chip seal and tar on the road.

Continues Page 10


GET READY FOR AN ADVENTURE: You will see things you’ve never seen before. The riding is nice, but the people-watching is great. For one week, folks there put all their cares behind them and they don’t really worry about how they look in this or that. They just have fun. Take a camera.

GET UP: The best time to ride is early, before the traffic snarls. As I said before, there are a lot of bikes on the road and the number grows as the day wears on.

GET – AND STAY – SOBER: There is a lot of alcohol consumed during the rally. And alcohol plays a role in many accidents during the week. Have fun, and if you want to drink, drink. But don’t get on the bike until you are stone cold sober. It’s just not worth the risk with so many bikes and cars flying around.

GET ON THESE ROADS: I’ve been to Sturgis five times and have ridden most of the hills. My top five rides:

1. Old Hill City Road between Hill City and Keystone: This 10-mile winding road crosses the 1880 Train tracks 20 times. Watch out for the train.

2. Highway 385: Right down the middle of the hills from Deadwood to Custer.

3. Nemo Road: From Rapid City to Highway 385 near Deadwood. Great scenery.

AUGUST EVENTS


4. Vanocker Canyon: Creep your way up Junction Avenue in Sturgis, past Interstate 90 and head on into the hills. Great ride intersects Nemo Road near … Nemo.

5. Iron Mountain Road beginning in Custer State Park.

GET TO THE GRUB: My top five places to eat:

1. Alpine Inn in Hill City: Two things on the menu: small filet minon and large filet mignon with lettuce, baked potato and bread (Large is only $10 … that’s right $10). See you there.

OTHER

2. Nemo: Very good biscuits and gravy biker breakfast.

3. Gold Dust in Deadwood: King crab buffet.

4. Firehouse in Rapid City: Love eating outside.

5. White house on Lazelle Street in Sturgis: Don’t know the name, but the greasiest (good) burgers around.

AUGUST EVENTSOTHER SH*T TO DO IN AUGUST. GET OUT AND RIDE!

69th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Ral lyAugust 3rd - 9th - Check out this issue to learn more about get t ing ready for Sturgis Ral ly

Sturgis by way of StrasburgAugust 1st - Ride, Party, and Camping(701) 426-6435

Thunder in the Val ley for HospiceAugust 14th - 16th - Abate of North Dakota - Ft. Ransom - (701) 471-2231

F*ck Sturgis RunAugust 14th - 16th - Knapper and Scrapper - (701) 212-9924

Open Road Honda Street RideAugust 4th - Open Road Honda - Al l Riders Welcome

Dakota Kids Cancer Ride - August 30th$25.00 Per Bike Entry Fee $30.00 with Passenger - Registration: 9:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. - Visit www.dakotakidscr.com*Includes T-shir t and Lunch

Stutsman Harley Davidson Sturgis Breakfast - August 1st - Feeding al l r iders before they take of f for the ral ly at Stutsman Harley Davidson in Jamestown, ND

Stutsman Harley Davidson Memorial Run - August 15thHosted by the Nat ional Guard and leaving f rom Stutsman Harley Davidson in Jamestown, ND.

Stutsman Harley Davidson MDA Poker Run - August 29thLeaving Stutsman Harley- Davidson and returning for a home-style BBQ

Ma's Cycle "Old I ron" Color RunSeptember 20th - Contact Ma's Cycles to learn more about the run

Ma's Cycles619 Main Ave. EWest Fargo, ND 58058(701) 277-4584

GO ONLINE TO VIEW MORE EVENTS.WWW.GASOLINEMAG.COM


By: Edward Miller Photo Credits: Russel MyersAnytime you can mix business and pleasure successfully, it’s a good thing. This summer I was able to do just that with my new friend in the industry, Jon Larson, who owns Larsons Creative Concepts in my home town of Mandan, ND. One day while shootin’ the breeze with Jon, he told me about some of the paint work he did for Pete Cose. Cose had recently finished the motorcycle he’d been building and Jon thought this would be a perfect story for the magazine. We topped off the tanks on our bikes and headed 100 miles north of Mandan, to Minot, ND, in search of this custom motorcycle and to get a good ride in for the weekend.

Leaving Bismarck it was the perfect morning; sun shining and birds chirping, it’s going to be a nice and easy ride, right? Wrong. We stopped in Washburn, ND, to fill up the motorcycles, grab some coffee and start the interviewing process for this story. We glanced up at the TV and the radar was showing a small front coming through that shouldn't have been any problem. Cool. We jumped on the motorcycles and headed north. One mile out of town it turned into a monsoon with the wind gusting up to 45 mph. Okay, I guess that wasn’t SO bad, but if you know the route to Minot, we were getting close to the Lake Sakakawea/Audubon crossing. The wind and water was whipping off the lake so hard I couldn’t see a damn thing. Luckily I didn’t turn the Triumph into a boat, and the closer to Minot we got, the better the weather got too. The rain let up as we strolled into town and met up with Pete to do our interview and shoot some photos of his bike.

I’d never met Pete Cose and didn’t know what to expect, but when he rolled up I could tell he was the real deal. You can tell by looking at some people that they are true bikers, and this guy was one of ’em. Larson wasn’t lying either, this guy had a custom bike all right. Instead of rattling off a million different things the bike has, we’ll just print a list of features Cose gave us and let the pictures do the talking.

gentlemansdesire


gentlemansdesire DRIVETRAIN:

Engine: 2007, 97 inch S&S Transmission: 2006 Roadmax 6-speed Overdrive

PAINT: Color: Fire Thorn Painter: Larsons Creative Concepts - Mandan

FRAME: Wyatt Gatling Single Down TubeType: Rigid Rake: 38 degrees Stretch: 4 inch Front end: Springer

ACCESSORIES: Handlebars: Ryan Hofer - Minot Fenders: West Coast Choppers Seat: Larsons Creative Concepts - Mandan

WHEELS: Front: 21inchRear: 16 inch/200 tire


After looking over the motorcycle we decided to venture off into Minot to find some good locations to start shooting photos. Cose led us to an old building with a big blue sign that read “Chicago Club” in neon letters. What’s this? Cose tells us it’s a gentlemen’s club, and he’d love to get some photos with the bike in front for his personal use. A few hours and a few beers later, we decided to call it a day. Like I said, mixing business with pleasure is one of the best parts about this magazine to me.

The photos have been clicked and the interview is on paper; it’s time to head back to Mandan. Let’s just say the ride back was a lot more enjoyable than the ride there. Despite the crap weather, it turned out to be a hell of a day doing a little “work.” What a rough job.



LarsonsWay of Life. Way of Life.

By: Edward Miller Photo Credits: Chad Hatzenbuhler

Hey there. It’s us again. We talked about Jon Larson earlier this issue in the article about Pete Cose’s bike. Now we’re gonna give you a little tour of his shop and learn more about what makes Jon Larson one of the top guys in area for upholstery, airbrushing and tattooing.

To get in a few words with Larson, I stopped in the alley right behind M&H gas station in Mandan. Not because he’s a bum and lives in a box, but because that’s how you get into his shop, Larsons Creative Concepts. The actual address is 109 3rd Ave Northeast, in case you need to send him a Christmas card. Larson has been running his own shop for over seven years now and has a background that’ll let him take your custom project to the next level. He has training from WyoTech, is a BMW certified tech, and has won many awards from a number of competitions. Jon unquestionably builds some of the best, award-winning interiors in the area, has been airbrushing for over 13 years, and rocks out tattoos in a friendly, sterile environment. I call that a triple threat.

If your date keeps complaining that the 5 gallon ‘bucket’ seats in your 32 Ford are hurting her plush bottom, do her a favor and take that jalopy over to Jon for some real upholstery. Or, if you can’t get a date in the first place, go to Jon for some flashy paintwork and tattoos. I hear chicks love that stuff. Whatever the case, you’re sure to walk out of Larsons with an award winning piece. Jon even has clients who have been featured in national publications, such as the television show ‘My Classic Car.’ Though upholstery work is his true niche, his paintwork and tattooing showcase the versatile talents Larson has. John is obviously no newcomer to the business, but is still learning new techniques every day to give his customers the best service to fit their needs.


LarsonsWay of Life. Way of Life.

When Jon isn’t working he is spending time with his family (wife Amber and daughter Emma) and enjoying life to the fullest. It was a struggle at first, but through years of hard work and long hours, Jon is bringing the industry to the next level. So, if you’re looking for some work to be done, stop into Larsons Creative Concepts and see what he has to offer.

I’d like to thank Jon for hanging out and showing me all of his work, as well as for the trip to Minot to see Pete’s bike. Larsons Creative Concepts is always knocking out some sort of outrageous project, so keep your eyes peeled for more of his work right here in Gasoline.


CHECK OUT THE NEW 2009CAN AM SPYDER AT YOUR LOCAL DEALER OR CHECK OUT MORITZ SPORT AND MARINE IN MANDAN, ND

Identification:Model Type: Sport-Touring BASE MSRP(US): $17,699.00

Engine:Engine Type: V Twin | Cylinders: 2 | Engine Stroke: 4-Stroke | Cooling: Liquid Valves: 8 | Valves Per Cylinder: 4 | Valve Configuration: DOHC


Nope, it’s not your dad’s old 3-wheeler tricked out to drive backwards. It’s a brand new 2009 Can-Am Spyder. Tim Moritz of Moritz Sport and Marine was kind enough to let Gasoline test one of the contraptions recently. Before turning us loose for an afternoon, Moritz went over a few of the basics of the Spyder, and also pointed out several not so basic features. The Spyder not only sports futuristic looks, it also features the technology to back ‘em up.

The Spyder gets its power (106 horses worth) from a 998cc liquid cooled V-twin. An 8 valve DOHC setup lets the engine breathe in fuel from its multi-port fuel injection system before spitting its digested mixture back out through the 2-into-1 exhaust, complete with catalytic converter. Anti-lock brakes? Check. Traction control? Check. Power steering!? Check. Man, this surely isn’t your pop’s old trike, is it? Although Can Am advertises a top speed of 110 mph, the speedometer optimistically reads to 200 mph. A 0-60 time of 4.5 seconds is also claimed. Hmmmm,….really? I think it’s time to ride this thing.

As I first jumped on this machine, it was a different feeling. If you’re used to riding a motorcycle, your first instinct is gonna be to balance this thing as you grab the clutch and turn the key. It only took me a second to realize that the need to balance was no longer a necessity. The feel seemed similar to sitting on a snowmobile. A snowmobile with wheels that is. I glanced down again at that 200 mph speedo and pulled off.

Hitting the streets with the Spyder was comfortable and relaxing. Turning corners turned out to be (no pun intended) a lot easier than I thought it might be. Stopping the Spyder is also an easy task thanks to the 4-piston calipers up front. After cruising around Bismarck/Mandan for a while to get the feel of things, I headed out on the highway to see what kinda power and speed the Spyder had. I could feel this thing had some pretty serious

power as I climbed through the gears and carved around corners. At times it felt more like I was driving a fast sports car, rather than a 3-wheeler. Before I knew it, I was having so much fun I neglected to notice the big dark rain clouds moving in from the west until the last minute. 20 miles out of the city, I turned the Spyder around and headed back towards the city, hitting speeds of ???. (You’ll have to see for yourself how far that needle actually climbs.) I pulled back into the dealership 2 minutes ahead of the rain. Not a bad afternoon.

All in all, this was one hell of a ride and the 2009 Can-Am Spyder gets 100% Gasoline magazine approval. Stop in at Moritz Sport and Marine and learn more from a Can-Am professional. Who knows, this might be the new Gasoline magazine ride for 2010. You mind donating some money? Just kidding.

TEST PILOTS WANTED!THE NEW 2009 CAN AM SPYDER By: Edward Miller Photo Credits: Russel Myers

CHECK OUT THE NEW 2009CAN AM SPYDER AT YOUR LOCAL DEALER OR CHECK OUT MORITZ SPORT AND MARINE IN MANDAN, ND


2010 Thunderbird Continued


Things are heating up for High Plains Powder Coating … heating up to around 400 degrees to be exact. That is the temperature their custom-built batch oven reaches during the baking and curing part of the powder coating process. Aaron Heimbuck and Leon Simon operate High Plains Powder Coating out of Bismarck. They specialize in powder coating, but also offer sandblasting, which usually needs to be done as part of the prepping process before the powdering can begin. HPPC also offers ceramic high temp exhaust coating in six different colors and are the only ones in the area that do this.

Co-owner Aaron Heimbuck has been powder coating for over 10 years. “I always did it for myself when I was building systems due to the cost effectiveness and time savings compared to the conventional paint process,” Aaron said of how he got started powder coating. “Parts can be powdered, baked and ready to be picked up in an hour. No way you can do that with basic paints.” His partner Leon agrees,

“We had so many friends coming to us asking, “Can you do this, can you do that?” So they decided to officially open shop in the winter of 2008 and things have been going steady ever since!

Specializing in coating Automotive and Motorcycle parts, Aaron and Leon can powder coat pretty much anything metal or non-ferrous metal. The craziest thing they have powder coated was a pair of custom high heel shoes made out of metal, by friend Jeff Wuitschick of JP’s Garage in Bismarck. The shoes were a big hit at the Freedom Rider’s bike show last March. The Hooters girls all had to try them on and take pictures. However, despite some fun with the Hooters girls, Aaron and Leon take their work seriously. They pride themselves on


offering a very large selection of finishes and colors. They also use the latest techniques to get the optimum finish. For instance, these guys have a bit of “mad scientist” in them, mixing powders to achieve the most flawless final result! Recently they perfected a “chrome like” finish which is unbelievably close to the real stuff! It took Aaron and Leon over five weeks to get the look they wanted. “You can’t just order this powder from a catalog, it's all custom mixed,” Aaron said. Another technique they use is the flocking method. After the piece has been shot and baked, they will shoot it again while the metal is still hot. The difference definitely shows, especially in the high gloss finishes, which at times resemble a mirror when properly shot. “We are car guys and are both VERY picky about our finished product. We know what the customer wants for their finished product. If it’s not good enough for our toys, it’s not good enough for our customer's toys,” Leon said.

High Plains Powder Coating is open evenings, Monday - Friday 5pm-9pm, Saturdays 11am-5pm, and also by appointment. Typically, a larger job will take up to three days, start to finish. Smaller parts can usually be picked up the same day. For more information

High Plains Powder CoatingPhone: (701) 223-8480 Email: [email protected]. 1318 Continental Ave #10Bismarck, ND 58504



Starting out though, business was tough for Haibeck. He stuck his life savings along with all of his income into the business to help it survive and keep the ‘OPEN’ sign flashing. “It’s like every business when they first start out,” said Haibeck. “I knew it was going to be a struggle, but I was doing something I’d loved since I was 15 years old and got my first motorcycle, which was a 1965 Honda 150 Dream.” If starting a business wasn’t already tough enough, Ross had to prove himself even more by doing it during a low point of sorts for the American motorcycle industry. Throughout the 70’s Harley-Davidson was owned by American Machine and Foundry (AMF). Production was ratcheted up far in excess of quality control, and the bikes suffered. In ‘79-‘80 the U.S. was also going through its second oil crisis following events that took place in Iran. Many people turned towards cheaper, more fuel efficient Japanese bikes that began to fill the market. (Cough, gag.) Despite the hard times, Haibeck stuck with it. Luckily a group of higher-ups at Harley-Davidson banded together to buy back the company from AMF in the early 80’s. A few years later, Harley introduced the aptly named Evolution engine, which marked a turning point for the American motorcycle industry. The economy also started to slowly improve and people started riding more again. Within the last 10 years or so, with the help of a few mainstream television shows, there are more people than ever interested in riding and the custom motorcycle scene. High points and low points, Ross kept going through it all, and I suspect he’s mighty proud of what he’s got today.

Over the last 30 years, Ross has done a lot with the Scooter Shak. If you’re an OG, you may know that the Scooter Shak hasn’t always been located in its familiar spot on the Strip in Mandan. It started life west of Mandan when Ross bought out a small shop that was owned by Nick Ressler. Ressler encouraged Ross, telling him, “You can open up shop, you know your shit!” Unsure of his retail abilities though,

John Lennon was killed, nobody could figure out the

Rubik's cube, and Mt. St. Helens erupted. Sh*t. So much

for 1980. Actually, the year wasn’t a total bust. 1980

was also the year Ross Haibeck opened the Scooter

Shak. Next year will be Scooter Shak’s 30th birthday.

That’s a big achievement for any business,

especially a motorcycle business.

By: Russel Myers Photo Credits: Russel Myers



Ross was also told by Ressler, “You’re a mechanic, you can learn the retail part.” With that, the Scooter Shak was born. It didn’t take long though before customers were telling Haibeck, “You need to get closer to town, our lunch break is only 30 minutes long and we can’t make it back to work on time.” Haibeck listened and opened up shop next to Mandan Steel on Memorial highway. Since then the Scooter Shak has moved once more, a few blocks to the west, adding more room and a mini motorcycle museum. If you don't know where it is, it’s pretty easy to spot with the giant David Mann “Ghost Rider” mural painted on the side of the building! As far as Haibeck’s retail concerns, I’d have to say he learned quite well. If you need a custom part, Ross more than likely has it, or can get it for you. I myself have bought numerous parts there. Hanging in my closet are also several shirts with the unmistakable Scooter Shak logo on the back.

Haibeck has made a lot of close friends and customers throughout the years and he plans on going another 30 years. Gasoline dropped in to talk a little with him recently. He told me, “We could write a book about the last 30 years, about all the good times and the bad times.” That actually might not be a bad idea. I’ll keep that in mind, Ross. In the meantime, here’s what he had to say:

Gasoline: Ross, we already got the first question crossed off my list, your first ride - which was a 1965 150 Dream. What do you ride nowadays when you’re not working 24/7? Haibeck: 2002 Harley-Davidson Ultra Glide.

What did you do before the motorcycle shop?I was born and raised in Steele, ND, and started my working career in construction before I had the shop. I got married and had a few children through the years (Wife: Julie, Daughters: Kari, Krystal and Kasie). I’ve also had a few Pabst Blue Ribbon’s from those days till today. (laughs)

What got you into the Motorcycle Culture?It was just there, when I was 15 and got my first motorcycle. I’ve loved riding and tinkering with them ever since.

What have you seen change the most in 30 years?Technology on the motorcycle. I used to be a buddy to call to go for a ride because if anyone broke down, I was there to get them going again. No hard feelings towards anyone, I loved it and enjoyed being able to fix a motorcycle on the side of the road, but nowadays we need a computer to be able to figure out what’s wrong with the motorcycles.

Is technology a good or bad thing?Well, in my last answer it sounds like I hate technology. Yes, it’s sad not being able to fix problems on the side of the road, but technology has given us less problems with our motorcycles. Which in turn means more riding time and not so much on the side of the road.

What does Scooter Shak offer to the motorcycle riders out there today?A full-service shop. We do almost everything to a Harley and basic stuff to the other motorcycle brands. We also have motorcycle apparel and custom parts. If we don’t have it, we can get it for you.


Any good or bad motorcycle trips that cross your mind?One good motorcycle trip was recently. My wife and I flew to Hawaii, rented some motorcycles and went riding through the state. As for a bad trip, I remember in 1984 heading down to Sturgis, SD, for the Sturgis Rally. It was a rough crash, but I was able to drive home. Didn't make it down there that year.

You’ve got a lot of old motorcycles in the museum, what got you started?I guess you can say it was just being at the right place at the right time. I’d purchase one and restore or clean it up and purchase another one when it came along.

What's your favorite motorcycle in the museum?1954 Harley Panhead, that’s all I need to say.

Anything you want to let the readers know before we end the story?Stop in to check out our shop and see the museum of motorcycles. Sit down, have a PBR, and talk about your days on the open road.

I couldn’t end the story any better than that. Thanks, Ross, for letting me come into your shop today. There’s lots to the Scooter Shak, so if you need something, or just want look around and say hello to Ross, stop on in. It’s hard to write with this Pabst can in my hand though, so I’m gonna put the pencil down and keep chatting with my new friend, Ross.

Larsons Creative Concepts | 109 3rd Ave. NE, Mandan N.D. | 701-400-5217 | www.larsonairbrushing.com

Tattooing

Airbrushing

Pinstriping

Custom Upholstery

Whether you’re looking to personalize your ride or have one painful therapy session, Larson can meet all your customizing and tattooing needs. You won’t find all that ego in our shop — we make sure you leave happy and with a top-quality product.

Call Jon Larson today at (701) 400-5217.


motorcycle {Friendly} buy your SH*T HERE

Bismarck-Mandan, N.D.

Action Motor Sports1417 Memorial Hwy.Mandan, N.D. 58554701-667-4524

Corral Sales RV617 6th Ave SEMandan, N.D. 58554701-663-9538

Crazy D’s Const.1227 S 22nd St.Bismarck, N.D. 58504701-220-0282

Cycle Hutt3700 Memorial HwyMandan, N.D. 58554701-223-4888

Dakota Sanitation1751 Channel Dr.Bismarck, N.D. 58501701-226-2553

DB Customs1810 N 8th St.Bismarck, N.D. 58501701-226-2553

Deborah KatesFine Photography Mandan, N.D. 58554701-471-4180

Doll’s Studios3001 Memorial Hwy.Mandan, N.D. 58554701-663-1069

Drink, The4007 South Bay Dr. SEMandan, N.D. 58554701-751-2898

Full Throttle Motor Sports1101 Airport Rd.Bismarck, N.D. 58504701-222-1999

Gimpsters Power2726 Memorial Hwy.Mandan, N.D. 58554701-663-8083

High PlainsPowder Coating1318 Continental Ave. #10Bismarck, N.D. 58504701-223-8480

Larsons Creative Concepts109 3rd Ave. SEMandan, N.D. 58554701-400-5217

Moritz Sport & Marine2540 Marina Rd. SEMandan, N.D. 58554701-222-2000

Open Road Honda4120 Memorial Hwy.Mandan, N.D. 58554701-663-4023

Planet Powered Sports4403 Memorial Hwy.Mandan, N.D. 58554701-333-8998

Scooter Shak2014 Memorial Hwy.Mandan, N.D. 58554701-667-2033

Silver Dollar 200 E Main St.Mandan, N.D. 58554701-663-5248

Stage Stop Saloon611 6th Ave. SEMandan, N.D. 58554701-663-7768

Starion Financial109 1st St. NWMandan, N.D. 58554701-663-6434

Fargo, N.D.

Fargo Harley-Davidson600 Main Ave. WWest Fargo, N.D. 58078701-277-1000

Hitman Industries900 Page Dr. Fargo, N.D. 58078701-234-0435

Ma’s Cycles619 Main Ave. EWest Fargo, N.D. 58078701-277-4584

Jamestown, N.D.

Stutsman Harley Davidson2501 3rd Ave. SWJamestown, N.D. 58401-7001


motorcycle {Friendly}

MAKE SURE YOU DO NOT MISS AN ISSUE.SUBSCRIBENOW $10.00 (TAX INCLUDED)

FOR ONLY $10.00, YOU'LL GET

OUR ENTIRE 2010 LINE-UP DELIVERED

STRAIGHT TO YOUR DOOR! THAT'S

CONVENIENCE FOR YOU, AND FOR US,

A LITTLE CASH FOR THE MAGAZINE

FUND. HELP GASOLINE GROW BIGGER

AND BADDER BY SUBSCRIBING!

MAILING ADDRESS:GASOLINE MAGAZINE (SUBSCRIBE)

630 sixth AvE. S.E. • MANDAN, ND 58554

EMAIL ADDRESS:[email protected]

Include: Name, Address, Phone and Email.

Sturgis, S.D

Broken Spoke SaloonHighway 79 NSturgis, S.D. 577851-866-754-2526

Full Throttle Saloon12997 SD Highway 34Sturgis, S.D. 57785605-423-4584

Legendary Buffalo Chip20622 131st AveSturgis, S.D. 57785605-347-9000

Long Beach, C.A.

JJ Workwear &West Coast Choppers718 W Anaheim St.Long Beach, C.A. 90813562-983-6666

Orlando, F.L.

Guilty Customs2220 Platinum Rd.Apopka, F.L. 32703407-886-5796

motorcycle {Friendly} Establishments

ADVERTISE IN 2010 SEASON. ADVERTISING IS FILLING UP ALREADY. CALL TODAY TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT IN GASOLINE MAGAZINE.701.202.0683GASOLINEMAG.COM

Documents

Gasoline Magazine - Issue No.3