Midwest Motorcyclist(tm),April 2015 issue

1765 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MIOne mile north of Square Lake Rd. on the east side of Telegraph Rd.

248.920.2000 • www.ridemotorcity.com

on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/MotorCityMotorcycles

2014 Indian Chieftain - New,Red, 11 miles,

5 year warranty,Special price: $1,500 off MSRP

We’re Moving Out 2014 Models!We’re Moving Out 2014 Models!

2014 Victory Vision - Demo,Nuclear Sunset, 432 miles,


2014 Victory Vegas 8 Ball - New,Black, 11 miles,2 year warranty,

Special price: $1,000 off MSRP

2014 Victory Cross Country -Demo, Gold, 313 miles,


2014 Indian Chieftain - New,Red, 11 miles,


2014 Indian Vintage - New,Blue/Cream, 11 miles,


2014 Indian Vintage Demo, Red, 2,005 miles,

5 year warranty,

Special price:$2,500 off MSRP

2014 Indian ClassicNew, Blue, 11 miles,

5 year warranty,

Special price:$1,500 off MSRP

With these prices, it’s no surprise the 2014 models areselling fast. However, we need more room for the 2015s.Stop by our dealership today to get your best deal on a

2014 Indian or Victory motorcycle. Don’t wait! Once thesemotorcycles are sold, the prices are gone, too.

Midwest MotorcyclistTM 3

www.bmwmcgr.com

616-530-6900Grand Rapids, MI 49548-5730

5995 S DivisionBMW MOTORCYCLESOF GRAND RAPIDS

April 20154 www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

Columns5 To Our Readers6 Safer Riding: Time to Stop Riding by Patrick Armitage7 Motorcycling and Law: Home & Vehicle Modifications by Dondi Vesprini10 Random Ramblings of a Rare Bird: Old School, New Tech, &

a Strip Off Season by Mike Mekinda14 Live It Right Dream Ride: Even Birds Have Nests by Jay Wilgus17 Open Terrain - Exploring the World and Soul by Motorcycle:

The Touratech Empire by Nicole Espinosa20 Big Changes in the 2015 Michigan Motorcycle Safety Program

by Jason Waechter21 The Preacher Talks About... Motorcycling in Michigan Book Review

by Franz Hoffer

Features, News & Reviews8 Ride to End Polio Now: From Prudhoe Bay to the Florida Keys

by Ray Peabody9 Book Review: Head Check, What It Feels Like to Ride Motorcycles by Jack Lewis

Review by Ray Peabody13 Hi Viz Riders Launch “BE SEEN” Campaign15 New Product: Giant Loop Tracker Packer for SPOT16 Spartan Cycle Now Selling Indian & Victory Motorcycles18 Motorcycle Expeditionary Forces Set Sights on Wisconsin22 New FXRG Jacket & Vented Sportswear From Harley-Davidson

Resources5 Advertiser Index18 Event Schedule19 Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Event Schedule

How to contact us:

709 Fall StreetSpring Lake, Michigan 49456

(810) 923-8738www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

Copyright 1998-2015 cc media. All rights reserved. No part of thispublication may be reproduced, photocopied, or electronically

transmitted without the expressed written permission of the publisher.Advertisers, their agents, contributors of event information, free-

lance contributors and/or editorial contributors will defend, indemnifyand hold cc media and RTP Enterprises, Inc. harmless in any claimsof libel, copyright or trademark infringement, plagiarism, violation oflocal, national, or international privacy laws and any other claim or

suit that may arise subsequent to publication of said advertisement,stories, event information, and/or editorial. Submission of material for

consideration for publication in Michigan Motorcyclist/MidwestMotorcyclist, American CycleRider either solicited or unsolicited,

constitutes agreement to these terms. Except for thePublisher and Managing Editor, all writers are free-lance contributors.Any and all opinions expressed are those of the authors, and don’t

necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

Publisher/Managing EditorRay Peabody

[email protected]@sbcglobal.net

Advertising Sales/ Web Master / DistributionRay Peabody

[email protected]@sbcglobal.net

Cover DesignJulie Kirkendoll

cc media publications

Cover photo: The rear view of Wayne Koppa’s BMW G 650 GS somewhere along the route of hiscoast-to-coast trip - the long way - to benefit the end of polio campaign. Photo by Wayne Koppa.

This Month’s Contributors:

Contributing Editors

Patrick Armitage, Nicole EspinosaEmily Flinkstrom, Franz Hoffer,

Mike Mekinda, Jay Wilgus

plus

Dondi Vesprini, Jason Waechter

IN THIS ISSUE…..

Dave Bowman Inc.

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Give us a call to reserve your time and ride outto beautiful Waterford. Lots of terrific roads andnice curves around nearby lakes. We’ll get your

work done while you wait and you’ll still havetime for a nice ride. Call today.


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AdvertiserIndex

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2014 BMW F800GS Adventure, Racing red, 7,720 miles, $11,9502011 BMW F650GS Low, Silver/Black, 17,000 miles, $7,9502009 BMW R1200RT, Silver, 38,565 miles, $10,9502009 BMW K1200LT, Black, 72,585 miles, $9,9502007 BMW K1200R Sport, Silver, 26,141 miles $6,9502007 BMW F800ST, Blue, 13,815 miles, $6,4502007 BMW F800S, Yellow, 31,192 miles, $5,4502006 BMW R1200RT, Graphite, 62,68 miles, $8,4502005 BMW R1200RT, Red, 34,198 miles, $8,4502005 BMW R1200RT, Red, 71,000 miles, $7,9502005 BMW R1200RT, Grey, 55,655 milkes $7,9502005 BMW K1200LT, Graphite, 44,000 miles, $9,4502003 BMW R1200C, Silver, 130,523 miles, 44,9502002 BMW K1200LT, Silver, 70,002 miles, $6,4502001 BMW R1100RTP, Black/White, 116,805 miles, CALL1992 BMW R100RT, Green, 50,029 miles, $4,750

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The motorcycle worldreceived some sad news this week.Details are still sketchy, butapparently Larry Klein, owner of GTMotors, died recently whilevacationing in the British Virgin Isles.Not having taken a vacation in manyyears, Larry accepted an invitationfrom friends to sail around theCaribbean. He was swimming whenhe suffered from some kind of healthissue.

Many knew Larry as a MotoGuzzi dealer and book seller based inLansing, Michigan. He couldfrequently be found selling books atswap meets and vintage motorcycleevents in the region. At his store,visitors had to navigate on pathwaysthrough piles of papers and books.Off to the right, a variety ofmotorcycles, mostly Italian includingMoto Guzzi, Moto Morini andDucatis, were lined up along the wall,covered in dust. The room reflectedan organized chaos but Larry seemedto know where to locate an item whenhe needed it. Later, he opened thebook store across the street thatgradually filled with stuff like themotorcycle shop had.

This was the paradox thatwas Larry. Unlike his work space, hismind was sharp and uncluttered. Heknew motorcycles and some of themost important players in theindustry. If you wanted to know whatwas happening in the motorcycleindustry in Michigan, Larry knew thedetails. He was an impressive sourceof information but he didn’t sufferfools. He could be abrupt.

I first met Larry at his shopwhen he was still selling Guzzis. Hewas an occasional customer of ours.He often shared stories and insightsabout people and businesses in theindustry. He introduced me to avariety of people, many of whomlater became subjects of stories in thispublication. One of my first ever rides

on a Moto Guzzi came when Larryoffered to let me ride one of the new(at the time) models – a V11 CaféSport – for a review article.

I don’t know if Larry wouldcall us friends. Probably not. But wehad semi-regular conversations, thelast few of which were impromptumeetings in his book shop. He alwayshad interesting information to share.Those conversations often lasted anhour or more; probably more timethan either of us could spare butworthwhile nonetheless. At least ayear had elapsed since we last talkedbut that was typical. Some of the bestrelationships turn out to be sporadicmeet ups where the people involvedpick up right where they left off.Despite the time gaps betweenconversations, I enjoyed thoseconversations and hope Larry did aswell.

I’m quite certain that manypeople have similar stories about theirrelationship with Larry. I am equallycertain that he will be sincerelymissed. Rest in peace, Larry.

We’re truly happy to bringyou this issue. We have a nice varietyof stories from the tale of WayneKoppa’s Coast to Coast - The HardWay Ride for Polio Eradication thattook him from Prudhoe Bay, Alaskato The Florida Keys in seven days toPat Armitage’s announcement that hewill stop riding to Mike Mekinda’s offseason visit to a resort community tothe latest update from the Live ItRight Dream Ride team to two bookreviews (Head Check by Jack Lewis andMotorcycling Across Michigan byWilliam Murphy) to news aboutchanges to the 2015 MichiganMotorcycle Safety Program to NicoleEspinosa’s profile of the Touratechempire to our event schedule andmore news. There’s a lot here and wehope you enjoy every bit.

Thanks for reading. Pleasesupport our advertisers. See you onthe road or at an event,


5995 South DivisionGrand Rapids, MI

(616) 530-6900www.bmwmcgr.com

SPRING TRACKDAY @ Grattan

Monday, June 1, 2015

The day costs $170,which includestrack time, classroom instruction

and lunch. Allmakes and modelsof bikes are wel-

come to attend ourtrack events! Call

our store to reserveyour space today.

Safer Riding

Time to Stop RidingBy Patrick Armitage

I started riding motorcycles at 16 years old in1972. In 1989, I trained to be an MSF (MotorcycleSafety Foundation) instructor. I taught more than2,000 people to ride over 20 years. I taught MSFcourses at Macomb and Oakland CommunityColleges, Schoolcraft College, the Palace of AuburnHills for Anderson’s Sales and Service (now MotorCity Powersports) and, finally, Rider’s Edge forMotor City Harley-Davidson. Teaching people toride was rewarding and fun; it was a highlight ofmy life. I have ridden, by my estimation, more than200,000 miles without a serious crash and in 49states on a motorcycle.

In 1998, I discovered this magazine and foundan appeal from the publisher, Ray Peabody, askingfor interesting motorcycling photographs. Raypublished a photo collage from my trip to

Americade that year and asked if I could write. Itold him my teachers would have said “no,” but Iwould try. To my great surprise, I have beenwriting for this magazine since not long after itsinception, doing Safer Riding, Tour Journals, Ask DrCycholl, and many others. You may have recentlyfollowed my three part-series ”The Bucket ListTour.”

At some point, all of us will face a time when,for various reasons, we should face the fact that it istime to stop riding motorcycles. As you might haveguessed already, for me, that time is now. A fewyears ago, I began noticing small coordinationproblems with my left hand. At first, I tried torationalize that it was nothing; it would go away. Iknew, though, that I was fooling myself. I sawseveral doctors and finally found a neurologist who

confirmed what I thought I alreadyknew. I have Parkinson’s Disease.

For those of you who do notknow, Parkinson’s is a treatable butincurable progressive neurologicaldisorder effecting the brain. It causesweakness and coordination problemsprimarily on one side of the body. Forme, my left hand and foot do not havethe dexterity or strength I had. I can stillmanipulate the clutch and shifter butmy overall control ability is noticeablyless than what it was. One day,probably in the not too distant future, Iwon’t be able to get my left foot to theground fast enough; the probable resultis predictable. My years of training andpractice had allowed me to achieve anability to handle a Goldwing very well.Losing this capability and,consequently, my confidence is adifficult thing for me to accept. As I

write this, I am 58 years old. I had hoped to be ableto ride five, 10 or more years.

As hard as it is to do, the smart thing is toadmit that this is not going to get better; it is timeto quit riding motorcycles before something badhappens. Friends have suggested a smaller bike, asidecar or a trike but I know this only delays theinevitable. Motorcycling has been a big part of mylife for 42 years. As hard as it is to admit, I need tosell my beloved Goldwing.

Somehow, I am mostly OK with it. It hasbeen a great ride. Through riding motorcycles, Ihave had great times, been to many interestingplaces, met lots of people, and taught many othersto enjoy riding. I introduced my Wife to long-distance motorcycle touring and, in this magazine, Ifirst became a published writer and photographer. Ihave since been published in several nationalmagazines. I have been trained by superb policemotorcycle instructors to a previously undreamedof level of riding skill. I competed in and won someriding competitions. What a great ride! I may not beable to continue riding but I will still remain activeas long as I can. Maybe I will take the proceeds fromthe sale of the Goldwing and buy a pontoon boat ora convertible sports car. Maybe both!

At this point, I have known I have hadParkinson’s for about eight years. When I was firstdiagnosed, I thought “I know how this story ends.”I watched my Dad spiral down after he wasdiagnosed with this condition. But my ownprogression has been minimal and, because of this,my neurologist thinks that there is reason tobelieve that this may be as bad as it gets. I willremain hopeful. In any case, I have little tocomplain about. Many of my friends, familymembers, and acquaintances have much worseproblems than me.

I hope that, when you face a similar situation,my openly discussing mysituation will, in some way,make it easier for you to faceyour situation, too.

I will continue tocontribute to this magazine aslong as I have something tosay and the magazine agrees itstill has value.

Ride safe and long,Pat Armitage

Patrick Armitage is a veterantouring rider, riding motorcyclessince 1972. He had been certifiedto be a Motorcycle SafetyFoundation Instructor in 1989,and a certified Harley Davidson“Rider’s Edge” Instructor from2000 to 2009. He estimates that hehas taught more than 2000 peopleto ride or, to ride better. As of2009 he no longer teaches MSF orRider’s Edge. His current ride,now for sale, is a 2003 GL1800AHonda Goldwing. Comments:[email protected]


Motorcycling & LawHome & Vehicle

Modificationsby Dondi Vesprini

We Ride!...All Makes of Bikes

...All Over the Country...On Back Roads...On Racetracks

...At Novice-Advanced Levels...In Our Sleep!

Our members come from all across the Midwest (and beyond)

and we ride many makes of street bikes - including:

We travel to great riding destinations close by and far away. We learn to be

better riders. We share camaraderie and a common passion: The Passion To Ride!

• Aprilia• BMW• Buell• Ducati

• Harley-Davidson• Honda• Kawasaki

• Suzuki• Triumph• Yamaha....and brands in between

In Michigan, contact:Gregg Mitchell

[email protected]

Sport Touring is Our Middle Name!

For information about membership, meetings, events or rides,contact the MSTA group in your state:

In Indiana, contact:Donald “Moose” Parish

[email protected]

In Kentucky, contact:Gary Dehner

[email protected]

In Ohio, contact:Doug McPeak

[email protected]

In Wisconsin, contact:Alan Tesch

[email protected]

No place to ride? Michigan is home to the largest organized network of off-road trails in the world - more than 3500 miles of marked, maintained ORV trails for the entire family to enjoy! Since 1968, The Cycle Conservation Club of Michigan has led the charge to assure continued access to public lands for motorized recreation by working closely with state and federal government. Membership in the CCC offers organized trail rides, a map CD of the entire trail system, a subscription to the Great Lakes TrailRider Magazine

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As part of my representation andadvocacy of injured motorcyclists, I oftenhave the pleasure to travel across our greatState to speak and give presentations tovarious motorcycle organizations, motorcycleclubs, and motorcycle rights groupsregarding a wide range of topics including amotorcyclists legal rights if they are involvedin an accident. As I give these presentations,it is always astonishing to me (although notalways surprising) how many injuredmotorcyclists were not receiving all the NoFault benefits they may otherwise be entitledto, because the insurance company failed toadvise them of the total package of benefitsavailable.

I am finding that one of the mostcommon medical-related benefits thatcatastrophically-injured motorcyclists are notaware that they may claim are home orvehicle modifications.

Michigan No Fault law allows amotorcyclist who is injured in an accidentinvolving a motor vehicle to recover“[a]llowable expenses consisting of allreasonable charges incurred for reasonablynecessary products, services and accommo-dations for an injured person’s care,recovery, or rehabilitation.” These types ofbenefits are sometimes more commonlyreferred to as “medical benefits.” While thiscategory includes the obvious benefits suchas medical bills and prescription expenses, italso includes expenses related to modifica-tions to an injured motorcyclist’s home orvehicle that are reasonably necessary for therider’s care, recovery or rehabilitation frominjuries sustained in the accident.

Some common modifications to ahome may include providing a wheelchairramp, modifying doorways to accommodatea wheelchair, and reworking bathrooms andkitchens to make the fixtures more accessibleto meet an injured person’s needs. Somecommon vehicle modifications are installinga ramp so a wheelchair may access thevehicle and modifying the steering or driving

mechanisms on the vehicle so the person mayoperate the vehicle in light of his or her injuries.

In years past, injured motorcyclists wereclaiming and receiving new homes or new vehicleswhich came with modifications to accommodatetheir injury. A couple years ago, our SupremeCourt clarified that the insurer is only responsiblefor the costs of the modifications, as opposed tothe entire cost of a new home or vehicle. Forinstance, in the context of a vehicle modification,the insurer is only responsible for the cost of thewheelchair ramp needed to access the vehicle, asopposed to purchasing a brand new vehicle thatincludes a wheelchair ramp. The thought is that ifthe person was never injured he/she still wouldhave used a vehicle to travel. It is only thenecessary modification to said vehicle after theaccident then that is necessary for the person’scare, recovery, or rehabilitation due to theaccident.

Nonetheless, I am finding that manymotorcyclists who are injured such that they needmodifications to their home, vehicle or motorcycleare left unaware by the insurance company thatthey are entitled to claim the cost of suchmodifications as a No Fault expense. Given thecosts that such modifications can entail, it is avaluable benefit to be mindful of.

As always, if anyone has any questionsor if I can be of legal assistance to you or anyoneyou know who has been injured in a motorcycleaccident, please don’t hesitate to contact me as Ideal with these types of issues and motorcyclistrights issues on a daily basis on behalf ofmotorcyclists statewide.

Further, if you would like to have mecome out to your motorcycle organization or clubto speak or give a presentation on the legal rightsof an injured motorcyclist or on any specific topicthat your organization or club may be curiousabout, please don’t hesitate to give me a call at(248-569-4646) or shoot me an e-mail [email protected]. I give presentationsState-wide and there is never a charge associatedwith having me out. I enjoy having the opportu-nity to come out and meet motorcycle enthusiastsfrom all parts of our State!


BMW Motorcycles ofSoutheast Michigan

14855 N. Sheldon Rd.Plymouth, MI

734.453.0500

www.bmwmcsem.com

We take motorcycles of all brands and models as trade-ins. Bring us your bike when you’re ready to buy!


2009 BMW R1200GS,SILVER / SILVER, 10,900miles, Excellent condition,

$12,490

2006 BMW K1200GT,METALLIC BLUE / SILVER,

19,600 miles, Excellentcondition, $10,750

2015 BMW F800GT, Dark Graphite Metallic / Silver, $13,890

2015 BMW R1200RT, San Marino BlueMetallic / Grey $22,950

2014 BMW R1200GSA *DEMO*, Racing Blue Matt / Black, $22,045

2013 BMW S1000RR, RED/WHITE / BLACK, Sale Price: $12,990

2012 BMW G650GS Sertao, White/Blue/Black, $7,250

2012 BMW K1600GTL, MINERAL SILVER / SILVER, $19,990

2012 BMW K1600GTL, ROYAL BLUE METALLIC / SILVER, $18,490

2011 BMW R1200GSA, GRAPHITE / BLACK, $16,490

2010 BMW R1200GS, Graphite, $12,990

2009 BMW R1200RT *LOW*, BLACK / SILVER, $10,990

2009 BMW R1200GS, SILVER / SILVER, $12,490

2008 BMW R1200RT, BLUE METALLIC / SILVER, $9,990

2006 BMW R1200RT, GRAPHITE / SILVER, $9,990

2006 BMW K1200GT, METALLIC BLUE / SILVER, Sale Price: $10,490

2013 BMW S 1000 RRRed/White/Black, 9,000

miles, Excellent condition,$12,990

2008 BMW R1200RTMetallic Blue/SILVER,

38,000 miles, Excellentcondition, $9,990

Some of the worst ideas happen in bars. Aperson has a few drinks, maybe gets a little loudand then makes commitments he or she laterregrets. However, not all commitments made in abar are bad ones.

Several years ago, Wayne Koppa was atSpike’s Keg O’ Nails, a local Grayling pub, withsome friends when he made the claim that he couldride from Grayling to Alaska and back in sevendays. A guy at the pub told him that if Koppa couldaccomplish that goal, the guy would buy him a fishdinner - the two-piece dinner, not the three piece.What started as a somewhat wild bar claim becamea plan undertaken a couple years later. BeforeKoppa left, he and the President of the local RotaryClub agreed to turn the trip into a benefit forPolioPlus, the campaign to eradicate polio.

While polio has been eliminated in the U.S.and most other countries since the second half of thelast century, it is still a scourge in Nigeria,Afghanistan and Pakistan. Polio is a highlycontagious viral infection that can cause paralysis,respiratory problems and even death. In the firsthalf of the 20th century, many Americans wereafflicted with polio including Franklin D.Roosevelt, our 32nd President. In 1988, more than1,000 people a day came down with polioworldwide. That number was down to 254 new

Ride to End Polio Now: From Prudhoe Bay to the Florida Keysby Ray Peabody

cases, mostly children in poverty-stricken countries,in 2013. Progress is being made but, considering thefact that an effective vaccine is available, it’s not fastenough.

Koppa succeeded in in making the roundtrip in seven days. The Rotary raised $3,250 forPolioPlus for his efforts. (No word on whether thebar patron paid up on the two-piece fish dinner.)Considering the success of that first adventure, theRotary leadership asked Koppa whether he had anyother similar trips in mind and, if so, would heconsider doing it as a fundraiser. Koppa acceptedthe challenge and began plotting his route.

He was looking for something dramatic,something that would get attention and generatesignificant donations for the cause. He ultimatelydecided on a coast-to-coast trip from Prudhoe Bay,Alaska to Key West in the Florida Keys. The planwould require that Koppa spend 12 to 15 hours aday in the saddle to complete the 5,200 mile trip inseven days. That timeframe and mileage didn’tinclude the ride from Grayling to Prudhoe Bay northe return trip from Key West back to Grayling.Koppa named the trip “Coast to Coast - The HardWay Ride for Polio Eradication.”

Readers might think that the bestmotorcycle for such a trip would be a multi-cylinder touring motorcycle capable of high-speedtouring with sufficient luggage capacity for everyconceivable possibility. Readers would probably beright. But that’s not what Koppa was thinking.Instead, he used his 2013 BMW G 650 GS for the trip.For those not familiar with this GS, it’s powered bya 652 cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine. It’sconsidered a lightweight (452 pounds wet)adventure bike with a reported top speed of 110 to115 mph. He added a small windscreen, handguardsand a solo saddle with a gel insert for addedcomfort. Koppa said he didn’t carry much gear; onlya few clothes, some tools and a credit card. Hewould be traveling fast with few breaks.

His route would follow mostly two-lanepaved highways but early in the trip he would haveto ride plenty of dirt and sand in Alaska, including

the Haul Road. The Haul Road is dirt - slipperymud when wet - that is coated with calciumchloride to keep it smooth and reduce the dust.

Koppa departed Deadhorse, Alaska on thePrudhoe Bay on June 15, 2014. The Haul Road was amuddy mess. He encountered some rain most days.Once he reached the paved roads, he could cruiseeasily at 80 miles per hour. He replaced his tiresthree times during the trip. He completed the trip175 hours and 5,875 miles later in Key West. By thetime, he made his way back to Grayling, Koppa hadspent 20 days on the road and had ridden 13,170miles. He said the most dangerous parts of the tripoccurred during his return while riding throughAtlanta, Cincinnati and Dayton where he ran intoheavy traffic.

Continued on page 17


“… I had progressed to the third stage of tequila:I was rich, good looking and bullet proof.”

– Author Jack Lewis, from the Classic Rockchapter in Head Check

Book Review

Winter is theperfect season for readingmotorcycle books. Sinceriding isn’t often an optionduring the winter monthshere in the Midwest, thenext best thing is readingabout motorcycles until thesun warms the earth anew.Once we get into the ridingseason, it’s… well… time toride.

Last year, thesubject of motorcycle booksI read leaned more towardsoutlaw bikers, gun running,drugs and inter-clubviolence. Having not readabout the 1%er lifestylesince Hunter S. Thompson’sHells Angels: The Strange andTerrible Saga of OutlawMotorcycle Gangs, I enjoyed two books on thesubject last winter.

This year, motorcycle riding andadventure books provided the theme for myreading list. The first, No Thru Road by ClementSalvadori, offered tales of internationalmotorcycle travel from the time the author firststarted riding around Europe in his teens. Anentertaining read, the book described places andadventures in the world most riders will notlikely experience.

Most recently, I read Jack Lewis’ latestbook, Head Check: What It Feels Like to RideMotorcycles. Some readers might recognize Lewis’name as a columnist for Motorcyclist magazine.That’s where I first read his work. Others,especially military veterans, might recognize hisname from his book, Nothing in Reserve: TrueStories, not War Stories and his contribution toHomecoming: Iraq, Afghanistan and the Home Front.

Head Check is a collection ofLewis’ Motorcyclist columns from afew years ago with at least one fromhis blog at www.jaxworx.com. Theauthor is laugh out loud funny,frequently self deprecating,sometimes somber / reflective butalways honest and energetic. I had ahard time putting Head Check downand, when I wasn’t reading it, I wasthinking about the next time I wouldbe able topick it up.

I firstopened HeadCheck at aMotel 6 in Flint,Michigan after a long dayon the road. The first two stories,Comes Around and Crashing Vashon,pulled me in and had me laughing soloud I’m certain my neighbors in the

room next door were wondering whether I wascrazy.

The next story, Riding Home, is reflectiveand the longest in the collection at 28 pages andhas appeared in various forms in several otherpublications. It is the story about Lewis picking uphis BMW R69S – “Honey” –upon his return frommilitary service in theMiddle East and taking thelong way home.

Another story, WhatKills Us, about motorcycletraining and safety, isdirected at active dutyservice people who ride.Readers might notunderstand some of themilitary acronyms but willstill get the message.

There’s much more to enjoy in this book.Lewis shares experiences about riding a Harley in theMiddle East, a trip to Alaska and back aboard a Suzuki650 V-Strom (two stories about this trip, actually), andteaching his daughter to ride. In another story, hedescribes his experience of taking his wife and hisGrandfather’s ancient Winchester Model 70 toBoomershoot, a high-powered gun enthusiast event(complete with explosions) aboard a well-worn Uralhack.

Lewis seems to be quite a character inaddition to atalentedwriter. He

paints clear,descriptive

pictures with wordsand metaphors that help the

reader visualize what’s happening in the story. Ienjoyed every page of this book, without exception.Lewis’ columns in Motorcyclist are always enjoyableand Head Check has confirmed my thinking that he isat the top of any list of motorcycle writers currentlyproducing. If anyone is better, I haven’t read his/herwork. That’s not hyperbole.

Available on Litsam, Amazon and selectmotorcycle stores and book stores.



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Track Day - Monday, June 1, 2015The day costs $175, which includes track time, class room instructionand lunch. All makes and models of bikes are welcome to attend our

track events! Factory test rider Nate Kern will join us. To register,please call Audrey at (734) 453-0500

Spring Open House - May 30, 2015This is the BIG one. The best food and refreshments you’ll find at anyOpen House. Demo rides and entertainment. Factory test rider Nate

Kern will be here. Join us in celebrating the 2015 riding season!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Head Check: What It Feels Like to Ride MotorcyclesBy Jack Lewis

Reviewed by Ray Peabody


Dr Cycholl is selling his Goldwing!

2003 GL1800A Honda Goldwing, Candy Orange paint witha silver hand painted flame pinstripe job. About 55K miles.More than $7000.00 in functional accessories, too many to

list. Everything works. This was the top of the line model in2003. Factory equipment includes ABS brakes, cruise

control, intercom, electric reverse, stereo with input for mp3player. Battery new last year, tires good. This bike needs

nothing, is ready to do a tour anywhere with no issues. Thisbike is my prized possession, it would never be for sale ifnot for a medical condition limiting my ability to continue

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Old School, New Tech, and a Strip Off-Season...by Mike Mekinda

Sometimes you just have tolet the pictures tell the story, even ifthe quality is less than amazing...

Pulled out the old-school‘Wing on a cold, sunny day for ahead-clearing ride into the (not toodistant) distance. It was all aboutThe Ride, nothing more. I shouldhave known better than to leave mycamera, though. Heading east, Ieventually rolled through Geneva-On-The-Lake, then turned back in to parkfor a bit. On any summer day, thisstrip is full of life. Bikes line thestreet, families walk the sidewalks,and hotrods cruise up anddown along the lakefront. Summerdays, the noise of engines fills the air,as does the cacophony of crowdsfilling the arcade, the kiddie rides, theopen-air restaurants and the bars. Onthat day, the cusp of NE Ohio winter,the strip was mostly shuttered andempty, only the muted sounds of thewind and the waves of nearby LakeErie foiling a total silence. With thesun shining on buildings built in amuch simpler era, I was struck byhow quaintly beautiful this littlestretch of history really is, andstunned I’ve never noticed. Amazingwhat’s visible when folks are erased

from the image.“Ohio’s oldest beach resort”

began as a family picnic area on theshore in 1869, then ebbed and flowedlike the lake with which it shares theshore. Also like the lake, the Genevastrip has been calm and inviting asoften as it’s been stormy anddangerous. Bikers and bars sharespace with families and spas. Classyweddings at the Lake Lodge coexistwith Thunder on the Strip, yet the oldcharm, somehow, prevails over all.

Over the past several years,the family atmosphere has (mostly)returned to the strip, and with that,crowds from all walks of life. On thatday, the lake was cold, yet calm andinviting, and the strip was serene. Thecrowds were gone, the buildingsshuttered for winter, and the rideswere quiet. Felt like only ghostswalked with me, enjoying that earlywinter day and the wonder of anempty strip - ghosts laughing at aphotog without a camera. But they’reold ghosts, unfamiliar with new techand the camera on my trustyBlackberry. I only wish the phonecould capture their images as well.

Ride often (don’t let the coldstop you!), ride smart, stay safe andI’ll see you on the road! -mike

Midwest MotorcyclistTM 11* For qualified buyers. Visit BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan for details. Always ride safely and wear proper protective gear.

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Amazing values on the remaining 2014 models in stock.Stop by our dealership today!

Stop by our dealership today to see the top-of-the-lineadventure and touring motorcycles from BMW.

Touring all inclusive: the K 1600 GTL Exclusive.When dynamic performance meets luxury, the result is alwaysexclusive and sensational. BMW Motorrad presents the K1600 GTL Exclusive – a high-class touring bike that takestechnology and visual styling to the extreme. This GTL makesall 6-cylinder dreams come true.

Tarmac, offroad, stones and sand: These are the challenges thenew BMW R 1200 GS Adventure is longing to master with its easyand agile handling. A machine for those who want to test theirlimits and go beyond them. Or to put it briefly: A motorcycle forriders who are seeking real adventure and don’t want to miss outon a great deal of riding pleasure in the process.

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This club is like none other - no politics, no B.S. We travel togreat riding destinations close by and far away. We learn to bebetter riders. We share camaraderie and a common passion:

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Lansing, Michigan – Hi Viz Riders islaunching its inaugural “Be Seen”motorcycle safety campaign in conjunctionwith the May 2015 Motorcycle AwarenessMonth. The campaign, which promotes theuse of Hi Viz motorcycle apparel featuringbright yellow or orange neon colors andreflective properties, is a national effortpromoting motorcycle rider safety.

“Motorcycle AwarenessMonth is an effective vehicle forencouraging car and truckdrivers to watch formotorcyclists while driving,”said Augie Fernandes, co-founder of Hi Viz Riders. “Ourcampaign encouragesmotorcycle riders to take thenext step in enhancing theirown safety by wearing bright,colorful protective gear thatmakes them more visible to other users ofthe road. Hi Viz riding gear grabs theirattention.”

Scientific research provides thefoundation for launching the “BE SEEN”campaign. According to Motorcycle riderconspicuity and crash related injury: case-control study by Susan Wells, BernadetteMullin, et al (www.bmj.com/content/328/7444/857.full), motorcycle riders “wearingreflective or fluorescent clothing had a 37%

Hi Viz Riders Launch ”BE SEEN” Campaignlower risk of crash-related injury than thosewho were not wearing such materials. Whenstratified by ambient illumination, theprotective association seemed to increase withfalling light levels…” The researchers concludedthat “Low conspicuity may increase the risk ofmotorcycle crash-related injury. Increasing theuse of reflective or fluorescent clothing, white or

light colored helmets, and daytimeheadlights are simple, cheap

interventions that could considerablyreduce motorcycle crash-related

injury and death.”Once the Hi Viz Riders have

established their 501c3 non-profitstatus, the founders plan to use avariety of tools to help promotethe use of Hi Viz apparelincluding in-store post cards, awebsite, social media, static clingstickers for dealership doors,

reflective stickers for motorcycles, newsreleases, industry articles, videos contrasting thevisibility of riders wearing dark, lowconspicuity apparel with that of bright, high-conspicuity apparel and events. In order to fundthese products and activities, the organizationwill be soliciting donations.

For more information, contact Hi VizRiders at (810) 923-8738, visit their website atwww.HiVizRiders.Homestead.com or visit theirFacebook page.

www.bmwdetroit.com(586) 274-4000Sterling Heights, MI, 4831234080 Van Dyke Ave.BMW Motorcycles of Detroit


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Continued on page 18

Even Birds Have NestsBy Jay Wilgus

The Live It Right Dream Ride

Kim is a writer. She’s also a world-traveler. In May 2012, she and herhusband left a comfortable life inOregon to scratch an itch that hadbeen bothering them for some time:the 9-5 routine, the cubicle, thehumdrummery of life in the “realworld.” They’ve now been on theroad for almost three yearsbackpacking through the U.S., theHimalayas, Patagonia, the Galapagosislands, and countless places inbetween. A while back though, Kimshared something on her blog thattook me by surprise.

”I’m done traveling,” she said. Theroad had taken her far enough andshe was ready to return home. Shehad been struggling with this for awhile, but didn’t have the words toadmit it until a walk on the beach ledher to this: “Even birds have nests,”

she realized,and a weightbegan to lift offher shoulders.

LikeKim, Emily andI have come torealize thatwe’re ready fora nest again aswell. We’vebeen on theroad for nearly a year. We’ve travelled more than16,000 miles through 13 countries and have gotten ahealthy spoonful of adventure. We’re now ready tocome home.

On April 16th, we’ll board a flight from LaPaz, Bolivia to LAX. We’ll be in the U.S. for 5.5months while we recharge, wait out the Patagonianwinter, and replenish our savings account. Ouradventure is not over, but it is approaching animportant intermission.

We miss home. We miss family.We miss having pillows of our own.Adventure travel is great, but it gets tiringto be on the move all the time. We’ve hadexperiences on this trip that others onlydream of, but along the way we’ve beenreminded that there’s another side to thecoin of self-indulgence.

It looks something like this: First,the grass is always greener on the otherside. We know from talking to folks thatmany would love to be in our position.Traveling the world, doing something newevery day, enjoying the freedom to gonearly anywhere we want. Well...whatthose folks don’t realize is that we’d behappy to trade places with them sometimes.Although exploring new places iswonderful, so is sitting in a nest of yourown with Netflix at the ready, preparing foranother day of meaningful work.

Enjoying the backroads of Colombia

Volcan Cotopaxi -Ecuador


Giant Loop Tracker Packer™ Ruggedized Holster secures SPOT Gen3 to Rider or Vehicle

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(BEND, OREGON USA) Adventure proofpacking and gear systems innovator GiantLoop has introduced the Tracker Packer™ruggedized holster for the SPOT Gen3 GPS-enabled location tracker and emergencybeacon. Giant Loop worked in conjunctionwith four-time Baja 1000 winner QuinnCody and the Kurt Caselli Foundation todevelop the Tracker Packer to help keepoff-road racers and riders safer. Aportion of all Tracker Packersales will be donated to theKurt Caselli Foundation(www.kurtcaselli.com).

The super ruggedand secure Tracker Packerfirmly attaches the SPOTGen3 device to the rider’sarm, backpack shoulderstrap, handlebars, fork tube,or many other locations.Redundant closures and multipleconnection and tether points help preventthe SPOT from becoming separated fromrider or bike, even in the roughest, mostextreme riding conditions. The TrackerPacker enables riders to follow bestpractices by wearing the SPOT withinreach, in a horizontal position for optimalsatellite signal. By keeping the device in avisible, easy-to-access location, anyone onthe scene can quickly deploy the SPOT’sSOS signal in the event of an emergency,




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We have the full line of 2015Harley-Davidson® motorcycles- including the ProjectRushmore touring models - instock and available forimmediate delivery. It’s cold andsnowy now but spring is right around the corner.The 2015 models have been selling fast. Don’tmiss your chance to own your dream bike.Stop by our store today to find the Harley® ofyour dreams.

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sending the GPS location to aninternational emergency responsecoordination center.

The Tracker Packer is not just forracing. When traveling beyond cell service,riders can let family and friends know theyare OK or send emergency responders theirGPS location with the push of a button.

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Made in USA with military-specification components and materials,the Tracker Packer is backed by a limitedlifetime warranty. USA MSRP is $40. TheTracker Packer is available bundled withthe SPOT Gen3 for $150 exclusively atwww.giantloopmoto.com. For moreinformation and to contribute to the KurtCaselli Foundation, visitwww.kurtcaselli.com.


BMW Motorcycles of Detroit34080 Van Dyke Ave., Sterling Heights, MI

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SPRING OPEN HOUSESaturday, May 9th, 2015 • 10am – 4pm

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Join us to celebrate the beginningof the 2015 riding season!

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2005 ROYAL STAR 1300 VENTURE, 65,000 Miles, CB Intercom System,Aftermarket Exhaust, Comes with a matching trailer for an additional $800,$5,995

2009 V-STAR 1300 TOURING, 7,500 Miles, Saddle Bags, Windshield, Sissy bar,Like New, $6,795

2005 BOULEVARD C50, 24,000 Miles, Saddle Bags, Windshield, Runs Great,$3,495

Completing the ride in about seven days was a standalonesuccess. When you consider that Koppa raised more than $100,000 forPolioPlus ($34,000 that he raised, $15,000 from an anonymousdonation in the name of Bob Gandolfi, past governor of RotaryDistrict 6290 who died one month prior to the bginning of the trip,and matching funds from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation), theeffort was incredibly successful. Additionally, in September 2014, theRotary Charities of Traverse City approved a $250,000 grant to helperadicate polio. It’s clear that, through these efforts, progress in thisfight is being made. It’s not enough, but it’s a huge step.

Koppa, who was previously the Camp Commander at CampGrayling, praised the help BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapidsprovided him in preparation for the trip. He was also grateful thatthe dealership organized an Open House in support of his ride.

When asked about future charity rides, Koppa indicated thattalks are progressing but no specific plans have been set. To seepictures from Wayne Koppa’s Coast to Coast - The Hard Way Ridefor Polio Eradication trip or make a donation, go towww.tinyurl.com/razoo-coasttocoast.

Continued from page 8 - Koppa Polio Benefit Spartan CycleNow Selling

Indian & VictoryMotorcycles

Mount Clemens, Michigan – Spartan Cycle hasannounced that they have begun selling the fullline of Indian and Victory motorcycles. Thedealership, which opened for business in April2014, has been selling used and custommotorcycles as well as providing service andrepairs on all American-made motorcycles in its10,000 square foot facility.

“Taking on Indian and Victory hasbeen part of the plan from the beginning,” saidSales Manager Gary Latessa. “Since Polarisacquired Indian several years ago, theyintroduced their own V-twin engine andimproved the quality of the products overall.The Victory motorcycles are also well builtwith styling traits provided by Arlen Ness.Polaris has done a great job with both brands.”

In preparation for bringing in the newbrands, Spartan has remodeled theirshowroom including new lighting,flooring, and displays. The showroom hasbeen filling with new motorcycles over thelast couple weeks.

For more information aboutSpartan Cycle, visit the store at 44701Gratiot Avenue, Clinton Township,Michigan, call the store at (586) 684-3372 orvisit their website atwww.spartancycle.com.

Kendon StandsOut In 2015

Stand-Up Trailer & Lift CompanyUnder New Ownership

Anaheim, CA - January 27, 2015 - Kendon,the originator of the Stand-Up™ trailerconcept, is standing tall in the new year.New private equity ownership and plentyof new products in the works, includingthe expansion of the innovative line ofRide-Up Trailers, have the SouthernCalifornia company standing tall!

”The first objective is to increaseour production so supply will meet thedemand,” says company President FrankEsposito. “Kendon is pleased to announcethat it has established a funding source.This will allow the brand to react to anever-increasing demand for Kendon Stand-Up Trailers and accessories.”

Back in 1991 Ken and Tina Thurmstarted Kendon with a vision of buildingthe best motorcycle trailer on the marketand throughout the years they’ve workedside by side growing Kendon. While Tinawill leave the company to pursue otherprofessional and personal interests, KenThurm will continue to consult on futureKendon products.

Thurm revolutionized the conceptof a totally portable trailer that could“stand up” out of the way, freeing upworkspace in any garage. Within a fewshort months, the Kendon Stand-Up™trailer had created an entirely newcategory of trailer, and over two decadeslater, the concept clearly still works. “Weare grateful to Ken for his vision and I amvery pleased that he will continue toconsult with us on product design andmanufacturing.”

”Through the efforts of many, weare well poised to respond to the ever-increasing demand from our customers,”concludes Esposito. “This marks myseventh year with Kendon and I can saywith utmost confidence that there is a verybright future Kendon in 2015!”


The Touratech Empireby Nicole Espinosa

Open Terrain: Exploring the World and Soul by Motorcycle

Ride down and visit the LARGEST and MOST COMPLETELEATHER SHOP in Southwest Michigan near the Indiana State line.

Call (269) 651-2464 now or visit our on-line store at www.ridewild.com

Retail Warehouse(269) 651-2464 Fax: (269) 651-8767

1640 S. Centerville Road (M-66 South) , Sturgis, MI


CHAPSas low as

$7500

Harley-

Davidson

JEANS$1850

RidingJacketsas low as$10000

Concealment

Vestsas low as

$5000

Packin’ TeeConcealment

T-Shirt

$4199

all sizes,with holster

VESTSas low as

$4000

Get a Jump on the 2015 Riding Season

Large selection

of saddle bags,

travel bags,

windshield bags,

& magnetic tank

bags

2nd Annual

HOGS in MinistryBike BlessingMay 9, 2015

Free coffee, donuts @ 9:30 a.m.

Blessing @ noon

You won’t find a throne decorating theleader’s office of a company that’s sitting at the topof a niche industry today. Instead, you’ll findroyalty spread out evenly amongst the employeesand distributors in a collaborative effort while thefounder and CEO checks any ego at the door. This isjust a sampling of what Herbert Schwarz has doneto build the empire of his top-running adventuremotorcycle aftermarket business, Touratech. You’llalso find the company’s strong foundation builtupon forward thinking innovation that challengestoday’s engineering standards. This innovation isdialed into every new product they produce inorder to satisfy needs that aren’t otherwise beingmet in the marketplace. And to stay at the top of theheap of this growing sector, Herbert has exercisedstrong business and engineering savvy and highexpectations of their gear, all the while keeping afinger on the pulse of the market by pushing thelimit through his own world travel.

Herbert founded Touratech in the early ‘90swith the help of Jochen Schanz when the adventuremotorcycling industry was in its infancy. Throughthe years, Touratech has branched out into luggage,protection, comfort, and navigation, while adding awide assortment of other manufacturer’s outdoorequipment and clothing lines. Throughout thecompany’s growth, Herbert has brilliantly pushedhis marketing campaign to include living andbreathing advertising by sponsoring many globaltravelers who are out there giving Touratechproducts a good thrashing all over the world, andsolidifying the name in the process.

In 2006, Herbert was in search of a “womanwho likes to suffer” to be the fourth rider forTouratech’s CAN2MEX video that documents thetreacherous journey from Canada to Mexico on dirtroads. Ramona Eichhorn jumped at the chance, andproved that she could suffer this endurance test likethe rest of the guys. Through the pounding of thejourney, Herbert and Ramona fell in love, and havegrown into one of our industry’s favorite powercouples. As a team, they ramped up their globaladventures and launched off to secretly test theunreleased, at the time, F800GS in places likeEthiopia, Scotland, Southeast Asia and East Africa.Slowing down for a moment to have children gavethem a chance to pass on this love of adventure tothe next generation as Herbert totes their two boysaround in his BMW R1200GS sidecar hack. Thisgives the company new insight for future products

that will keep the growing family sector of ouradventure motorcycling industry on the road withmore style and comfort.

Thanks to my bike catching on fire lastsummer, my jacket and helmet took a beating withhot melted side-bag fallout. To my delight,Touratech came to the rescue asking me to test theirCompanero high-tech motorcycle suit and newAventuro helmet. Because of his experience as anadventure rider, Herbert knows the incredibledemands gear must endure on long journeys. It wasof utmost importance to him to design a riding suitand helmet that addresses all seasons,environments, and riding conditions. In the end,both lines are modular and expand into threeproducts for the price of one top-quality item.

The Companero provides a summer suit asthe base layer with extensive ventilation and airyCordura AFT material for those riders who chooseto include scorching deserts and intensely humidregions as their adventure playgrounds. Attentionto comfort, safety, and aesthetic detail sets this suitabove all others. Female sizing and fitment ensuresthat the suit fits my sized frame while keeping allCE level 2 armor sitting in the proper places for theutmost protection. This suit can be zipped togetherand also includes a convenient forearm pocket witha windowfor mobile phone and a soft-lined pocketon the upper arm for glasses. A detachable rearpocket is large enough to store the GORE-TEX windand waterproof over-jacket. This second winter suitfits securely over the summer suit to keep the riderbone dry in the nastiest of conditions. This outerjacket is also great lookingand versatile enough toserve as a jacket out on thetown when off the bike.

So far, southernCalifornia skies haven’tdropped cold rain on any ofmy rides since early fallwhen I got the suit, so I’veonly been testing thesummer suit with a Warm &Safe heated jacket linerunderneath for chillymornings. All in all, theEuropean cut makes bothmen and women look greatin this suit, and has proventhat the top quality designand material of two full suitsin one is well worth theMSRP of $1,495 and $995 forthe two pants.

Touratech’s newAventuro carbon helmet israising the bar with its 3-in-1modular design addressingthe dual sport, off road, andstreet markets with onehelmet. My favoriteselection is the “dual sport”with features that include theno-drag visor that has largepass-through vents, and aPin-Lock lens that can beattached to the face shield toreduce the chance of fogging.For quicker time getting in/

out of the helmet, there is an extra long chin strap sothe DD ring can remain threaded when removing thehelmet. And with the snug interchangeable padding,noise is drastically reduced for highway travel. Therewas a huge difference in weight when it came tocomparing this 3.0 lb Aventuro carbon fiber small tomy old Arai XD4 at 6.4 lbs. And, I was thrilled to findthat it came with speaker cavities ready for me toplug in my Sena comm system. To keep wind noiseand cold air off the chin, the added chin flap is worthits weight in gold. This top quality helmet now sitsat the top of the heap, just like Touratech, with anMSRP of $649.

Nicole in the Companerohigh-tech motorcycle suitand new Aventuro helmet

The Schwarz family in New Zealand


2nd Annual

HOGS in MinistryBike Blessing

Saturday, May 9, 2015

Free coffee, donuts @ 9:30 a.m.

Blessing @ noon

Call (269) 651-2464 now or visitour on-line store at www.ridewild.com

Phone: (269) 651-2464 Fax: (269) 651-87671640 S. Centerville Road (M-66 South) , Sturgis, MI


Retail Warehouse

5995 South DivisionGrand Rapids, MI

(616) 530-6900www.bmwmcgr.com

SPRING FLINGOPEN HOUSE

Saturday, April 18, 2015

We’re celebrating a new ridingseason, new models, and great

weather. Help us celebrate!

• Demo rides • Storewide specials• Food / refreshments • and much more

Job Opportunities

6971 Highland Road 248-666-4651 Waterford, MI 48327 www.tech-care.com

Seeking Service Technicians & Parts Advisors

Great opportunity in a small but busy non-franchisefacility in Waterford. Requirements include:

• 5 years experience • Solid work ethic• Tools (technician) • Good driving record

• Motorcycle endorsement• Avid motorcycle enthusiast

Call Dave Bowman to set up an interview.

Continued from page 14 - Live It Right Dream Ride

Second, we need a purpose. Extendedtravel provides a valuable exhale, but it doesn’tnecessarily contribute to the greater good.We’ve watched from the road as the events inFerguson unfolded. We took pause when RobinWilliams took his own life. We skirted aroundan area in Mexico where 43 students wereabducted and killed by their government forresisting corruption. And we’ve passed bydesperate levels of poverty, where many areforced to comb through landfills for their nextmeal. We’ve been rather silent through all ofthis, but we can sit idle no longer. It’s time tore-engage. It’s time to contribute so that othersmight someday enjoy the same privileges that

we do.Although our adventure hasn’t been

nearly as long as Kim’s, it has led us to the sameconclusion. It’s time for a nest. It’s time to stay inone place for a while. It’s time to subject ourbrains and bodies to some good old fashionedwork. We’ll spread our wings again in October.Until then, check back here for a review of ourbikes, our gear, and some additional stories fromthe road.

To read more about our adventure south,please visit www.liveitrightdreamride.com. Whileyou’re clicking around, please also visit Kim’swebsite: www.so-many-places.com. She’s a greatwriter and a valuable resource for turning yourdreams into reality. Many thanks to her forreminding us that it’s okay to crave a nest.

WISCONSIN DELLS, WI – March 12, 2015 –(Motor Sports Newswire) – The MotomarathonAssociation will bring its long-distance, motorcyclesport-touring format to the Badger State from May29 - June 1, with the 2015 WisconsinMotomarathon™ starting and ending in WisconsinDells with overnights in Silver City, Mich., andHayward, Wisc.

“Our Wisconsin Routemasters havedesigned a scenic backroad adventure,circumnavigating the entire state through its forests,prairies, rivers, lakes, hills, dales and dells,” saidMotomarathon Founder John Metzger. “In our questto ride America’s

Motorcycle Expeditionary ForcesSet Sights on Wisconsin

Motomarathon to circumnavigate state for long-distance,sport-touring adventure May 29-June 1

great motorcycling regions, we’re excited to discover whatWisconsin has to offer.”

For a $50 fee, participants will receive aprecisely engineered route for each day, and a copy ofMetzger’s book, Motorcycling Through Midlife, which hewrote to help baby boomers manage the dangerousadolescent urges of “midlife crisis” through his personaljourney on a motorcycle.

Motomarathon routes and checkpoints are keptsecret until the night before each day’s ride. Participantscomplete a series of self-recorded checkpoints,photographing their badge numbers at designatedlandmarks. For more information, visitwww.motomarathon.com or call John Metzger at303-641-1062.


EventsEvents do change.Please call ahead.

Ohio

Indiana

Michigan

Midwest

March 28Michigan Dressers Motorcycle ClubSpring BashAthena Hall, 25650 Gratiot Ave.Roseville, MI7 p.m. to 1 a.m.$35 per ticket includes buffet dinner, beer,soft drinks, live band, dancing(586) 703-1601,[email protected] orwww.michigandressers.8k.com

April 2Ladies’ Garage PartyABC Harley-Davidson4405 Highland, Road (M-59)Waterford, MI6 p.m. to 8 p.m.HEY Ladies!!! Whether you ride, want toride or just a passenger this fun &informational event about the HarleyLifestyle is for you! Free food, door prizesand free goodie bags! RSVP for a night ofguaranteed fun!(248) 674-3175

April 4Indoor Tent EventCapitol Harley-Davidson9550 Woodlane Dr., Dimondale, MI 48821517.646.234510 a.m. to 3 p.m.

April 4Crack on egg to see what you wonGildner’s Harley-Davidson2723 South M-76, West Branch, MI(989) 345-13309am-4pmStop in on Saturday, April 4th and open anegg to see what you get.

April 11Fashion ShowCapitol Harley-Davidson9550 Woodlane Dr.Dimondale, MI 48821517.646.234512pm-1pm Check out the new seasonalMotorClothes collection

April 11ABATE Region 20Annual Awareness PartyBancroft Hall120 Warren Street, Bancroft, MIBegins 7 p.m.; $10 / personFor info, Lisa Vail (517) 294-3431 orwww.abatemichigan 20.com

April 1515th Annual Boot Camp - 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.Ray C’s Harley-Davidson1422 Imlay City Road, Lapeer, MI(810) 664-9261

April 15ABATE of Michigan Legislative DayCapitol Building, Lansing, Michigan9:30 a.m.

April 17Charity Fashion ShowNewest rider fashions from KLIM, Olympiaand BMW. Hors d’oeuvres andrefreshments; $25 per person to benefitUnited Cerebral Palsy Foundation ofMichigan.BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan

39933 Ford Road, Canton, MI734.981.1479www.bmwmcsem.com

April 16th

Griffin’s Bike NightGrand Rapids Harley-Davidson2977 Corporate Grove DriveHudsonville, MI - (877) 596-6387

April 18Bacon & Bikes4405 ABC Harley-DavidsonHighland Road (M-59)Waterford, MICan you ever get enough of FREEBacon?? Hot breakfast and Ride-inBike Show. Win awesome door prizes.- (248) 674-3175

April 18Helmet ExchangeCapitol Harley-Davidson9550 Woodlane Dr.Dimondale, MI 48821517.646.234510 a.m. to 3 p.m.Receive 20% off a new helmet withthe exchange of your used one!

April 19Birch Run Motorcycle Swap MeetPresented by Bubba’s Tri City Cycle &Michigan Motorcyclist® magazine10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Admission: $6Birch Run Expo Center11600 North Beyer RoadBirch Run, MIInfo: (989) 893-5187 [email protected]

April 25Polish PaloozaABC Harley-Davidson4405 Highland Road (M-59)Waterford, MI8 a.m. to 5 p.m.We’re at it again with FREE deliciousPolish Food and inspiredentertainment. Door prizes and anawesome fun time! You don’t want tomiss this one!(248) 674-3175

April 25H-D Demo Days & Ready To RideWorkshopsShiawassee Sports Center11901 South Beyer Road,Birch Run, MI(989) 624-4400

April 25Region 20 Awareness RideRandy (810) 533-6456

April 25-2613th Annual SPRING OPEN HOUSESteve Baller will be here againpinstriping bikes, trikes, trailers,helmets, etc.(Call early and schedule a time slot orjust show up & sneak your way in line)Michigan Chrome Shop69090 N. Main StreetRichmond, MI(586) 727-7829

April 2614th Annual LakeshoreBlessing of the BikesOttawa County Fairgrounds1286 Ottawa Beach RoadHolland, MIGates open at 10 a.m.Bike show for cash prize / trophyDoor prizes @ 2:15 p.m.Blessing at 3 p.m.$5 Donation (Bike or Car)

April 30Country Bike NightGrand Rapids Harley-Davidson2977 Corporate Grove DriveHudsonville, MI - (877) 596-6387Music, Beer, Food, Bikes & You!

May 2ABATE Region 5Spring Bash & Membership PartyScott (231) 206-9579

May 3All Clubs Ride & Swap MeetStockbridge, MI

May 92nd Annual HOGS in MinistryBike Blessing

March 28ABATE Region 11 Johnson CountyGolden OldiesGREENWOOD AMERICAN LEGIONPOST #252, 334 US 31,Greenwood, IN6:00 pm - Midnight.$15 per person or $25 per couple.Minimum age 18. Public welcome.For more information call Lou at 317-496-7298 or Robin at 317-457-2513

March 29ABATE Region 12 Easter Egg HuntRiley VFW grounds (on Indiana 159).Time: 1:30pm. FREE to everyone: Open tothe public. Children must be accompaniedby a parent.Dave 812-877-1676

April 10-11ABATE Region 5 Battle of the BandsThe Valhalla Room Heorot Pub & DroughtHouse219 S. Walnut St.Muncie, IN 47303.Starts 6:00pm. Admission: $3 per person.For more information contact: Region 5Director. Tony Brummett765-808-0534. Delaware Co. Rep. BrianWormer765-707-7637.

April 11ABATE Region 8Memorial Ride In The Windcall (812) 430-8070.

April 11ABATE Region 2 Lake CountyCandlelight Bowl - Family friendly event!Set Em Up Lanes135 N. Broad St., Griffith, IN.Starts at 10:00pm.$30 per couple. $20 per individual.$10 for non-bowlers. Food, fun, prizes.(219) 712-4691.

April 11ABATE Region 10 Spring ThawCrawford County 4-H ClubOld 37 in Old English, IN.Gates Open: 12:00 Noon, Saturday.ABATE Members $10.00, Non-members$14.00; Must be 18yrs. to enterCampers welcome Friday & Saturdaynights. Free Camping. Live Music.Silent Auction. Fun Run (weatherpermitting).For more information call: Darla 812-508-1139, Thom Henderson (Hippy)812-865-6030. or call (812) 278-8717.

April 12ABATE Region 1 Marshall CountySwap Meet

”The Oldest Meet in North CentralIndiana”.Indiana National Guard Armory,1220 West Madison Street,Plymouth, IN 46563.9:00am – 4:00pm.Admission $5.00 per person. EveryoneWelcome. Open to the general public.For vendor or event information call ortext: Dan Perry 574-298-9860,[email protected].

April 18Region 7 Bartholomew CountySpring Fling 2015Saturday Ride starts & Ends at:VFW Post #1987215 North National Road,Columbus, INReg. 11am-12:30pm.$20 per person or $30 per couple. Food & ride t-shirt (all while supplieslast), ride, dance with live band, fieldevents and primitive camping. LiveMusic: Dancing and band ing at 8:00pm.For more information, Teresa McCrory812-603-6523. [email protected] or call(812) 603-6523.

April 25ABATE Region 10 Orange CountyRedneck RompOrange County Park,1100 Saddle Club Lane, Paoli, INGates open at 9:00am.$10 per person. Must be 18 or older.LocatedFree primitive camping. Live musicFor event information contact VickiGerkin 812-675-3244 or BettyBoop 812-865-6068 [email protected]

April 25ABATE Region 11 Marion CountyBattle Of The BandsRock House Cafe, 3940 S. Keystone Ave,Indianapolis, IN 4622712:00 Noon-12:00 Midnight.$5 per person, minimum age 21.Maelene 765-426-6438 [email protected]

April 25Region 1 Fulton County [email protected] call (574) 933-3478.

April 25ABATE Region 13 Davies CountyTourney JourneyAngle Inn, Business 50 West End of townWashington, IN (.)Sign-in: 11:00am–12:00 noonRide leaves at 12:00pm.Cost: $10.00 per bike on ride. $5.00 perdart player. For information email [email protected] or call (812) 257-8785.

April 26ABATE Region 1 Blessing Of The Bikes@ Stauffer Park, 5 blocks East of SR 19on US 6 to Summit Street. Go North andthe street runs into the park11:00 AM. For info Wayne Kopec574-298-3200 or Duane Moneyheffer at574-773-7067

April 26ABATE Region 4 Bike Showand Swap MeetTippecanoe County Fairgrounds,Lafayette, IN10:00am-4:00pm.. Bike Show $5 entry;cash prizes & trophy classes, judgingstarts at noon; Tattoo Contest, FashionShow; Admission only $3.00 per person.For info Jan Johns at 765-878-4691 [email protected](765) 878-4691.

June 5-7Rockerbox MotofestRoad AmericaN7390 State Hwy 67Plymouth, Wisconsin

June 6-7Ride for ResearchA 2-Day Dual Sport Event, which issanctioned by the AmericanMotorcycle Association. Dual sport isa type of motorcycle riding which is amix of off road trails connected withthe use of roads. Participants of ourevents are from WI but we also drawparticipants from throughout theUnited States. Trails are used withpermission and/or permits throughthe USFS, County forests, and privatelandowners. Trails range from 2track, gravel, minimal pavement (aslittle as we can), and single tracksections that are optional- Saturday’sroute is usually about 130 miles andSunday’s route is usually about 80miles (though miles and routeschange often yearly). The motorcyclesare street legal motorcycles that arefully off road capable. This event isheld in Wabeno, WI.

Registration fee includescamping, meals, trail support, t-shirtsand two days of great riding throughthe Northwoods in Wisconsin, ridersraise funds to benefit the UW CancerResearch Center in Madison, WI. Formore information or to register, visitthe Wisconsin Dual Sport Riderswebsite atwww.widualsportriders.org/v3/events.asp

June 13-15Motoblot, Gearheads Unitedformerly Mods vs RockersChicagowww.motoblot.com

July 9-12Sportbike Rally RevisitedParry Sound, Ontario, Canada

April 26ABATE Region 3Support our Troops 2015For info, [email protected] or call(765) 437-8341.

May 9Fuel ClevelandInvitational Bike ShowClif’s Warehouse2222 Lakeside Ave E.Cleveland, Ohiowww.fuelcleveland.blogspot.com/

June 5-7Queen City Mods vs RockersCincinnati, OH

July 17-19AMCA National Flat Track &Vintage Bike Day


Attorney Jason A. Waechter is a nationalattorney specializing in the areas of motorcycle andmotor vehicle injury litigation. Mr. Waechter hascollected millions of dollars in settlements, awardsand verdicts for his motorcycle clients over the past20 years. Jason feels a duty to give back to hiscommunity. A portion of each case settled goes toeducational resources for bikers, funds to helpbikers while their cases are being litigated and ourmotorcycle accident prevention campaign. CallAttorney Jason Waechter toll free at 1-877-BIKERLAW. Or visit www.TheMotorcycleLawyer.comLegal disclaimer: The law is very fact dependent andthere are many nuances and exceptions dependingon your particular circumstances. Therefore, giventhe limited space, it is impossible to covereverything. Do not rely on the short article toprotect your rights.

Big Changes in the 2015 MichiganMotorcycle Safety Program

by Jason Waechter, Esq.

In 2015 the Michigan MotorcycleSafety Program will begin the transitionto the new MotorCycle SafetyFoundation (MSF)Basic Rider Course(BRC) 2014. The newcurriculum willrequire all sites to berecertified and allcoaches to attend apass/fail Rider CoachTransitional CoachPrep (T-RCP). Thenew course has acomputer home studycourse called the e-Course. This computerbased class is verysimilar to a trafficsafety computer coursethat covers the basicskills that are taught ina traditionalmotorcycle safety classthe 1st night. TheeCourse has a quizafter each section andthe student rider mustscore 80% or better tomove to the nextsection. The sectionsare CourseIntroduction,Motorcycle Types,Controls & Equipment, About BasicOperation, Preparing to Ride, BasicStreet Strategies, Strategies for CommonRiding Situations, Basic Street Strategies,Basics for Emergencies, Special RidingSituations, and Rider Impairments. Atthe end of the computer course thestudent MUST print the fi and bring it toclass the 1st night. No certificate=noriding. Students will meet in theclassroom the 1st night, do thepaperwork and take a quiz on theeCourse material.

Grand Rapids Community College,Ferris State University and SchoolcraftCollege will start with the new course.The Detroit-Metro program studentswill be divided into 2 groups and onegroup will start riding on Friday night.The 1st riding group will ride for 4-5hours or till dark and finish Saturdaymorning. The range exercises in Level 1range are: Motorcycle Familiarization,Using the Friction Zone, Starting andStopping Drill, Basic Skill Practice,Pressing to Initiate and Adjust Lean,Stopping More Quickly & Tight turnsfrom a Stop, and Stopping DistanceDemonstration. The 2nd group will startriding the Level 1 range exercises whilethe 1st group will go into the classroom

and do the Level 2 classroom. The Level 2classroom consists of group activities and

student centered learning. Onthe next day the 1st group ridesthe Level 2 range while the 2nd

group does the level 1classroom. Level 2 rangeconsists of Limited SpaceManeuvers, Stopping in aCurve, Curve Judgment,Multiple Curves & LaneChanges, Crossing an Obstacle& Swerving, and Skill Practice.The student riding test is theRider Skills Test (RST) with acurve added to it. The RST isthe state current motorcyclelicensing test in Michigan.

“In the fall of 2014 wepiloted the new curriculum atSchoolcraft College. We had 2groups of students in the pilotclass: the eCourse group and agroup that took the traditionalclassroom the 1st night. TheeCourse students were verywell prepared and were betterstudents than the traditionalclassroom students on therange and in the classroom,”states Vince Consiglio,Regional Coordinator.

Registration for motorcyclesafety classes for 2015 hasstarted for most sites. At

$25.00 per class these courses are the best dealin motorcycling. In 2012, 58% ofmotorcyclists fatalities didn’t have a cycleendorsement. In fact, since 1989 Michigan hasaveraged 40% of motorcyclists fatalities nothaving an endorsement. A rider can take thecycle riding skills test or complete a safetyclass to get an Operator Cycle License (OCY).You may be surprised if you ask to see yourriding partners OCY. Let us make 2015 a saferyear, make sure you got your OCY and be afriend and check out your buddies.


MichiganHarley-Davidson

Dealer EventsFor a complete list of Michigan Harley-Davidson

Dealer Association Members, see the dealerlocator on page 23.

March 2811 a.m. - 3 p.m.Bacon & BikesYep... FREE Bacon Breakfast!Door prizes and more!ABC Harley-Davidson4405 HIGHLAND RD (M-59),WATERFORD(248) 674-3175www.abc-harley-davidson.com

April 2Ladies’ Garage PartyABC Harley-Davidson4405 Highland, Road (M-59)Waterford, MI6 p.m. to 8 p.m.HEY Ladies!!! Whether you ride,want to ride or just a passengerthis fun & informational eventabout the Harley Lifestyle is foryou! Free food, door prizes andfree goodie bags! RSVP for a nightof guaranteed fun!(248) 674-3175

April 4Indoor Tent EventCapitol Harley-Davidson9550 Woodlane Dr., Dimondale,MI 48821517.646.234510 a.m. to 3 p.m.

April 4Crack on egg to see whatyou wonGildner’s Harley-Davidson2723 South M-76,West Branch, MI(989) 345-1330Stop in and open an egg to seewhat you get.

April 11Fashion ShowCapitol Harley-Davidson9550 Woodlane Dr.Dimondale, MI; 517.646.234512pm-1pm

April 1515th Annual BootCamp5 p.m. to 7 p.m.Ray C’sHarley-Davidson1422 Imlay City Rd,Lapeer, MI; (810) 664-9261

April 16th

Griffin’s Bike NightGrand Rapids Harley-Davidson2977 Corporate Grove DriveHudsonville, MI - (877) 596-6387

April 18Bacon & Bikes4405 ABC Harley-DavidsonHighland Road (M-59)Waterford, MICan you ever get enough of FREEBacon?? Hot breakfast and Ride-in Bike Show. Win awesome doorprizes. -(248) 674-3175

April 18Helmet ExchangeCapitol Harley-Davidson9550 Woodlane Dr.Dimondale, MI 48821517.646.234510 a.m. to 3 p.m.Receive 20% off a new helmetwith exchange of your used one!

April 25Polish PaloozaABC Harley-Davidson4405 Highland Road (M-59)Waterford, MI8 a.m. to 5 p.m.We’re at it again with FREEdelicious Polish Food,entertainment. Door prizes.You don’t want to miss this one!(248) 674-3175

April 25H-D Demo Days & Ready To RideWorkshopsShiawassee Sports Center11901 South Beyer Road,Birch Run, MI(989) 624-4400

April 30Country Bike NightGrand Rapids Harley-Davidson

2977 Corporate GroveDrive

Hudsonville, MI -(877) 596-6387Music, Beer, Food,Bikes& You!

As I’vewritten previously,and as much as ithurts, I am not goingto the Sturgis Rallythis year. It’s the 75th

anniversary andhotel rooms arepretty much doublein normal price ofaround $350 -sometimes more - pernight. Attendanceprojections forSturgis and thesurrounding area isabout 1 millionattendees; theaverage annualattendance is rightaround 400,000.Even with the400,000, lines at thegas pumps can be 20 minutes or longer. Ican’t imagine what it will be like with 1million. So for 2015, my gang - my ridingbuddies - are doing what we are calling a“Pure Michigan” tour on our bikes. I ambeing tasked with planning the ride so Igot a book off my shelf that has beenthere for a couple of years called“Motorcycling Across Michigan” byWilliam Murphy, an avid rider andauthor of seven books.

Murphy is a biker with morethan 40 years riding experience and aformer Marine and Vietnam veteran.“Motorcycling Across Michigan” is aboutthe people, places, attractions, greatroads, and history of Michigan based onhis personal experiences. Murphy offerssome great advice that can only comefrom hours on the bike.

The book is 262 pages long withgreat illustrations, maps, andcommentary. It’s divided up into sevensections: Lake Shore Routes; SmallTowns, Vineyards, Orchards andFarmland; Historic Routes; The GreatNorth Woods; Great Lakes Circle Tours;Some Good Local Rides; and DesirableDestinations. The appendix is full ofhandy website addresses, emergencycontact info such as County Sheriff,Michigan State Police, motel toll-freenumbers, a directory of Michiganmotorcycle dealers and repair shops, anda complete listing of MichiganMotorcycle Laws and Regulations. In2014, Murphy wrote an updated version

of the book called “RideMichigan.” I have chosento use “MotorcyclingAcross Michigan” for oursummer trek …for noparticular reason otherthan I like it.I have lived in Michigan

since I was in 1st grade.My family emigrated herefrom Germany.Essentially, I considermyself to have lived myentire life in Michiganand thought I knew theState well; both the Upperand Lower Peninsula. Iused to travel around thestate quite a bit before Igot married andafterwards with my wifeand family. But this bookby Murphy has so much

information of which I was not awarethat it seemed as if I was new to the State.It goes into great detail and gives exactrouting on the trips as well as mileageguides. It also provides advice aboutwhat to watch out for.

You can meet Murphy at severalvenues around the state starting on April14th. He will be at the Local Authors Dayevent at the Delta Township Library, justwest of Lansing, MI from 6:00 to 7:30 inthe evening. Later that same week, onSunday, April 19th, he’ll be at the BirchRun Swap Meet. On May 17th,, Murphywill be at the Baker College Car & BikeShow.

I found the book on both Barnes& Noble and Amazon for $7.35 (used) ingood condition (it’s a paperback); newwas around $9.00. The reviews on bothwebsites all rated the book with 5 stars.It’s a must for the serious motorcyclist,resident or out of state tourist who wantsa quality ride through Michigan. Murphyhas also written other travel books formotorcyclists covering Ohio, Wisconsinand Indiana. Do yourself a favor; get thisbook.

Next month will see a return of“Tech Talk” with Jerry B and the monthafter that I plan on taking theExperienced Rider Course from GaryLewandowski and his organization,“Ride Like A Pro”.

At this writing, the snow isalmost gone, spring is in the air…and theHarley is ready to go!

The Preacher Speaks About ...

MotorcyclingAcross Michigan

Book Reviewby Franz Hoffer


4. BrightonBRIGHTON HARLEY-DAVIDSON®5942 WHITMORE LAKE RD., BRIGHTON(810) 225-2915, www.brightonhd.com

8. GaylordZIP’S 45TH PARALLEL HARLEY-DAVIDSON®980 S WISCONSIN AVE., GAYLORD(989) 732-8000, www.zips45thhd.com

5. Cement CityTOWN & COUNTRY HARLEY-DAVIDSON®US 12 & US 127, CEMENT CITY(517) 547-3333, www.cementcity-harley.com

7. FremontSANDY’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® SPORT CENTER11940 N. MAPLE ISLAND RD, FREMONT (231) 924-3020, www.sandysharley-davidson.com

9. HudsonvilleGRAND RAPIDS HARLEY-DAVIDSON®2977 CORPORATE GROVE DR., HUDSONVILLE(616) 896-0111, www.grandrapidsharley.com

1. Battle CreekBATTLE CREEK HARLEY-DAVIDSON®5738 BECKLEY RD, BATTLE CREEK(269) 979-2233, www.battlecreekharley.com

6. Farmington HillsMOTOR CITY HARLEY-DAVIDSON®34900 GRAND RIVER AVE., FARMINGTON HILLS(248) 473-7433, www.motorcityharley.com

3. Birch RunSHIAWASSEE HARLEY-DAVIDSON®11901 N. BEYER ROAD, BIRCH RUN(989) 624-4400www.shiawasseeharley-davidson.com

2. Bay CityGREAT LAKES HARLEY-DAVIDSON®3850 S. HURON ROAD, BAY CITY(989) 686-0400, www.greatlakeshd.com

11. LansingCAPITOL HARLEY-DAVIDSON®9550 WOODLANE DRIVE, DIMONDALE(517) 646-2345, www.capitolhd.com

10. KalamazooPERRY’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON®5331 SPRINKLE ROAD, KALAMAZOO(269) 329-3450www.perryharley-davidson.com

12. LapeerRAY C’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON®1422 IMLAY CITY ROAD, LAPEER(810) 664-9261, www.raycsh-d.com

SWAP MEETSpresented by

Old School NEW FXRGJACKETS AND

VENTEDSPORTSWEAR

Able to adapt to every ridingseason, the new FXRG jackets

from Harley-Davidson willkeep you cool, dry, warm,

and comfortableMILWAUKEE (March 2, 2015) – If a rider buys onejacket, make sure it is the most versatile jacket inthe market. Available in both leather and textile,the new men’s FXRG® Triple Vent System™

Switchback Jackets from the Harley-Davidson®

MotorClothes® line will handle almost anythingMother Nature throws at it. Transforming eitherjacket begins with the Switchback system ofpanels on the sleeves and shoulders that zip-off tocreate a mesh jacket. A removable zip-out full-sleeve waterproof liner complements a zip-outfull-sleeve thermal-reflective warmth liner toadapt to varying conditions. The jacket’s TripleVent System includes three zippered verticalvents on each side that allow customizableairflow that’s unaffected by backrests orpassengers. The sewn-in, ultra-lightweight CELevel 1 approved impact protectors at elbows andshoulders offer added protection, while a backpocket accepts optional accessory back impactprotectors. A removable, snap-out kidney beltand six zippered pockets complete the package.

The FXRG TVS Switchback Leather (P/N98095-15VM, starting at $795) is made from a mid-weight cowhide leather, while the FXRG TVSSwitchback Riding Jacket (P/N 98094-15VM,starting at $595) is made from 100 percent 500denier nylon. Both jackets are available in S – 5XLand Tall sizes.

Look and feel cool with a new VentedPerformance shirt from the Harley-DavidsonMotorClothes line. To maximize venting andcomfort, the performance shirts incorporate meshpanels under the arms, inside back yoke and onthe sides that match the vents on H-D Triple VentSystem jackets. The men’s Vented PerformanceSkull Shirt (P/N 99034-15VM, starting at $70) andVented Performance Flames Shirt (P/N 99035-15VM, starting at $70) are made from 100 percent

polyester ripstopmaterial with

fast-dry, full-wicking

propertiesthat keepthe bodycool, dryandcomfortable.They’reavailablein S – 5XLsizes.


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For more information, visit www.mhdda.com

17. Traverse CityCLASSIC MOTOR SPORTS HARLEY-DAVIDSON®3939 S BLUE STAR DRIVE, TRAVERSE CITY(231) 943-9344, www.classictc.com

14. MuskegonHOT ROD HARLEY-DAVIDSON®149 SHORELINE DRIVE, MUSKEGON(231) 722-3653, www.hotrodhd.com

15. SturgisHAMILTON HARLEY-DAVIDSON®68951 WHITE SCHOOL ROAD, STURGIS(616) 651-3424, www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com

13. Mt. PleasantC & S HARLEY-DAVIDSON®4741 E PICKARD, MT PLEASANT(989) 772-5513, www.candssportcenter.com

18. WaterfordA.B.C. HARLEY-DAVIDSON®4405 HIGHLAND RD (M-59), WATERFORD(248) 674-3175, www.abc-harley-davidson.com

19. West BranchGILDNER’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® MOTORCYCLES2723 S M-76, WEST BRANCH(989) 345-1330, www.gildnershd.com

16. TecumsehTECUMSEH HARLEY-DAVIDSON®8080 MATTHEWS HIGHWAY, TECUMSEH(517) 423-3333

Why I Ride a Harley

I’ve been riding since I was 15, starting out on a Yamaha. I rode a Sportster for a while

and then another Yamaha before switching to Harleys exclusively after my kids were

grown. There are lots of reasons I ride a Harley but mostly it’s because of the styling, the

sound and the prestige. My current ride is a 2010 Street Glide but I’m looking to move up

to a 2014 Street Glide Special. I love the new infotainment system and GPS.

Rick Ozello, Battle Creek, Michigan

Member, Brotherhood of the Marine Corps Riders

Member, National Harley Owner’s Group

MOTORCYCLE WRECK?Call the MOTORCYCLE LAWYER!

1-877-BIKER-LAW

WE TAKE AUTO & TRUCK CASES TOO!Hurt in a crash?Call Jason Waechter - The Motorcycle Lawyer

1-877-BIKER-LAWwww.TheMotorcycleLawyer.com

Offer Expires 5/30/15

Documents

Midwest Motorcyclist(tm),April 2015 issue