Thunder Roads Texas - January 2013

It’s not about the bike... it’s about the RIDE!

HolidayShoppingGuide10 Packed Pages!

December 2012ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Gary & Brenda Towers’ 2003 Anniversary Ultra Classic with side car.

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On the Cover24 Holiday Shopping Guide: 10 Pages of Shopping Ideas for the Biker in Your Life!

This Month10 Pig Writes: My Christmas List12 Pink Thunder: Legislative Day 2013 - Bikers at the Capitol

Regular Features6 Letter From the Editor8 Two Wheel Thunder TV Review: Revolutionary New Technology Now Available in the US15 Ride Map: It’s Good to be King!34 ThunderCam

36 Joker’s Wild

Resources19 Event Listing CENTER - Pull-Out December 2012 Calendar37 Biker Friendly Listing

Contents

December 2012

On the cover: Photo by Randy “Harley Doc” McCamey. Bike courtesy of Gary & Brenda Towers. The 2003 Anniversary Ultra Classic features a side car, air seat, chrome wheels all the way around, air horn, reverse gear, diamond cut engine, chrome suspension and stabilizerr ba, and blue LED lighting on engine. As with most of the Towers’ bikes, this bike boasts multiple bike show trophies. Model:

10

Thunder Roads Texas Bob Cooney & Shelly Horan State Edition Owners 4631 Cashel Glen Drive Houston, TX 77069 281.866.8149 ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Layout & DesignShelly HoranTop of Mind [email protected]

Thunder Roads Magazine® is Trade Marked and may not be used in any way without consent from Thunder Publishing. Thunder Roads Magazine of Texas is published by Thunder Roads Texas. All rights reserved. No part of its’ content may be reproduced without written permission. Publisher assumes no responsibility and is not to be held liable for errors beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error, slander of any group or individual, failure to produce any issue as scheduled due to reasons beyond our control, any and all suits for liable, plagiarism, copyright infringement and unauthorized use of a person’s name or photograph. Opinions and claims made by advertisers and authors are their own and do not necessarily represent the policy of Thunder Roads Magazine®, Thunder Publishing, or Thunder Roads Texas. Publisher does not promote the abuse of alcohol or other drugs. Ride & live responsibly. Thank you. Thunder Roads Magazine®, Thunder Publishing, and Thunder Roads Texas.

Thunder Roads Texas is a wholly separate entity from Thunder Publishing LLC and Thunder Roads Magazine editions in other states. As such, content that runs in other states’ editions has no relation to the content in Thunder Roads Texas. Unless specifically stated, Thunder Roads Texas does not endorse, and is not responsible for, any content in other Thunder Roads Magazine editions.

OWNERS

Bob Cooney, CEO/[email protected]

Shelly “TX Dragonfly” Horan, [email protected]

FEATURE WRITERS

Peggy Beck - Two Wheel Thunder TV Reviews; sharing Pink Thunder, each submitting quarterly:

Joni “Even Meaner” Kelton (Jan/Apr/Jul/Oct), Shelly “Cricket” Beatty (Feb/May/Aug/Sep), &

Terri Williams (TMRA2; Mar/Jun/Sep/Dec); and “Pig” Meinhardt - Pig Writes

CORRESPONDENTS

Michael Jackson - Galveston; Joyce Siegert - D/FW; Dean Downey - Amarillo; Linda Nilsson - East Texas; Mary “Ima Ryder” Taylor - Austin; “Pig” - San Antonio”; Don Brewer - Livingston; Donny Phillips - LaPorte; Mike “Biker” Boone - Houston/Gulf Coast; Dan Harp - Keller; Jason English - East Texas; Gwen Tucker - Central Texas; Don McGovern - Houston; Travis Jacobs; Houston; Jason English - Rusk; Donna Herrin - Edinburgh; Leah Hanscom - Piney Woods; Amy Jacobs - Gulf Coast.

Thunder Publishing, LLC Toni & Brian ShearonNational Founders1528 Matlock Drive Chapmansboro, TN 37035615.792.0040 ThunderRoadsMagazine.com

Thunder Roads Texas Main Office 281.866.8149

[email protected] “Shovelhead” Barnes

[email protected] 321.960.6161

Laura Mae Benson - Houston [email protected]

979.481.9642 Traci “Sweet N Low” McClure - East Texas [email protected] * 936.671.9567

Bonnie Estes - Austin/Hill Country [email protected]

512.673.6679

Shelly “Cricket” Beatty San Antonio/Hill Country

[email protected] * 210.445.2477Don “DB” McGovern - Dallas/Fort Worth

[email protected] 972.896.1919

Diane G. - Houston [email protected] * 832.253.3262

D. Grey - Houston [email protected] * 832.881.9244

Darlene “Lady Diva” Hanson Dallas/Fort Worth

[email protected] * 817.680.8121

ADVERTISING SALES

Facebook.com/ThunderRoadsTexas

We are pleased to announce Randy McCamey has been promoted to Associate Editor. Randy has been writing and taking photos for Thunder Roads Texas for more than three years.

ASSOCIATE EDITORRandy McCamey

[email protected]

It’s the last issue of 2012… the last issue of our first five years as owners of this wonderful magazine,

While the riding gets a little lighter, our business partners (AKA advertisers) are still open, even if you’re in a cage. We offer you a ten-page Holiday Shopping Guide. The beginning offers tips and hints from Randy “Harley Doc” McCamey and Shelly “Cricket” Beatty… buying for the opposite sex. It’s a good read! Then we offer retailers special ads for the season. Shop them now – shop them often – and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Thunder Roads Texas!

I am pleased to announce the promotion of one of our correspondents to Associate Editor. Randy McCamey has stepped up to get more involved in Thunder Roads Texas. He will assist me with monthly editing and collecting of data for the magazine… taking a decent amount of work off my plate so I can better focus on special programs and such.

Speaking of special programs, we will be changing up our Points Across Texas program. It had a phenomenal reception its initial year, but dwindling participation since. It will still be here, just in a different format. So watch for our January issue to get the details! Hint… we’ll combine the program with our monthly ride map.

I’m still working on our ride map book. It’s funny, each month, I have to edit the book. It seems to be a moving target. Hmmm… maybe I should set cutoff date for the monthly maps to be included! I’ll keep you posted on the progress. Still hoping to get it out Spring/early Summer 2013.

As we close out our fifth year, we wish to thank our readers for their continued support. We have such loyal readers and we are truly thankful for this blessing. We also want to thank our advertisers. Without them, we simply don’t exist. So we keep asking you to frequent our advertisers… they make the magazine FREE for you.

Wishing you each a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year – from our family to yours!

Ride safe... and ride with THUNDER!

Shelly “TX Dragonfly” HoranEditor / Owner, Thunder Roads Texas and Owner, Top of Mind Marketing [email protected]

Randy “Harley Doc” McCameyNEW Associate Editor for TRT

Page 6 H December 2012 ThunderRoadsTexas.com

December 2012 H Page 7Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

ith Christmas just around the corner we remember the story about Santa in his red suit

being driven around the world by his reindeer s i t t i n g in his sled warm and dry. Santa’s red riding suit protected him from all the weather.

I have never been flow around the world in a sleigh. But I have ridden motorcycles several hundred thousands of miles in all types of weather. So I have experience with riding gear. For over a hundred years motorcycle manufactures have created motor clothes. I have been skeptical of all riding suits. I have owned many different types, styles, and manufacturers. They have served their purpose; they protected me. However they were hot, uncomfortable, and inflexible. Honestly I couldn’t wait to get them off.

Every serious long distance rider needs good riding gear. Every rider that finds himself/herself caught in just about every kind of weather needs protection from the elements. Are you one of those riders that brag to your friends that you ride to Sturgis, Daytona, Rolling Thunder, or the Lone Star Rally? Even other great Rally’s and places in the country for that matter. Have you experienced knowing in the back of your mind there were times you were so cold, wet, hot and basically so uncomfortable for long periods of time that the fun of riding was lost to the elements?

Let me express my change of paradigm about the new Richa riding suit now offered in the United States by Vega Helmet Corporation. If the weather is cold, once you zip everything shut you are warm and rain is not a problem. Believe it or not the wind can beat you up, make you tired, and even cause you to loose your focus. The suit is totally wind and waterproof. It will stand up to the most torrential downpours. I even had someone spray me with a pressure washer to test just how much water it could take. After 25 minutes of being soaked, I took the suit off to see if any parts of my body or under clothes were wet. I was as dry as the Sahara Desert. If it’s really hot just take the liner lining out of the set. And the inner jacket looks nice enough to dine in a nice restaurant.

The material that was used in the development of this suit is like nothing I have ever experienced. The material

has smart technology called c_change™ from Schoeller. It actually reacts to different weather conditions and the body’s response to those conditions. At high temperatures, or during aerobic activity, the c_change membranes open as body moisture levels rise. And vice versa during colder weather, the membranes close to retain heat against the body. Confused? I think of it like pores. The pores open in heat to let it breathe and provide a comfortable environment for your body. When it is cold, the pores close to keep the ambient temperature around you once again comfortable for your body.

That is just the foundation on which the Richa suit is constructed. The way they have incorporated accordion like areas where your body bends like the knees, elbows, and lower back/hip area is truly revolutionary and very rider friendly. When you are standing, the accordion like areas contract, when you sit down on the bike, the areas that bend need the extra material to bend with your body. When you are squatting and bending around your bike or getting into the saddle bags, you need a suit that can bend with your movements comfortably.

The pants have removable CE approved knee armor and high density EVA hip armor providing high level impact protection while Reflex™ retro-reflective patches on outer thighs enhance your visibility to other drivers. Richa has many reflecting areas on the jacket and pants for safe riding. The Reflex patches on the Spirit jacket and pant are visible at up to 300 feet in dark or twilight situations. The result is that you are much more visible in night or low light situations.

There are loads of pockets and even a window pocket on the left lower sleeve for your ID, insurance card, or small map. In the Spirit jacket, five pieces of CE approved armor (two elbows, two shoulders and back) provide the highest level of impact protection available for internal garment armor. They also had the foresight to add rubberized areas for your backside to keep you in the saddle no matter what kind of weather you ride in.

Richa is a popular brand of motorcycle clothing in Europe, Vega Helmet Corporation is now importing and distributing the brand in the United States. The Belgium based company has been around for over 150 years. Their original product line was the glove. Today, they are best known around the world for their extensive line of motorcycle clothing and gear.

Vega Helmet Corporation was founded in 1994 and specializes in motorcycle helmets and accessories. What began as a husband and wife operation has turned into an international leading brand selling helmets in more than 1,200 stores.

Search YouTube.com for “Vega Richa Spirit Jacket”. For complete information check out: VegaHelmet.com or call 425-656-0679. You can locate a Vega dealer near you through their website.

Ride all year long and ride further with the Richa Spirit C_Change Riding Suit. I bet Santa wishes he had this warm and toasty Richa riding suit for his Christmas Eve deliveries!


Revolutionary Technology Now Available in the USThis month, written by Jimmy Kay


Hello there big guy. It’s me again, Pig. You know, from San Antonio. Did you enjoy the Lone Star Rally this year? I know you did because I saw all those pretty Texas girls hanging around you. How are the new Vance & Hines pipes on the sled? I bet they really help with the performance. There is nothing like zipping past the cagers and freaking them out.

I just wanted to drop you a line to let you know that I have been an extra good pig this year. You will be glad to know that last year I only chased after two married women (that number is down from the previous year) and I had only one bar fight (that number is also down from the previous year). You will also be glad to know that the charges were dropped from the incident at the strip club due to lack of evidence. And currently I have no outstanding warrants!

I would like to say I’m sorry about the neighbor’s dog biting you in the butt last Christmas eve. I didn’t know that a Chihuahua could jump that high. I’m really surprised you didn’t drop kick that sucker like a football. I made sure to tell the neighbors to keep that little yapper tied up so you don’t have to worry about him again this year.

Did you like the beer and flaming hot Cheetos I left out for you? I thought you would appreciate a change from the

same old milk and cookies. Oh, before I forget, do you have a return policy? It seems the blow up doll with the black leather panties you gave me last year… well, she popped when the cats tried to play with her.

You know how I always love helping others at this time of year, so I wanted to give you some ideas on where to shop for those hard to find items everybody wants for Christmas. I also need a little help with my Christmas shopping this year because Rainman took away my credit card and won’t let me buy anything. Instead of bringing me presents, could you please just deliver the following items to my beloved friends. To help make it easier for you, all of these items are available from our Thunder Roads Texas advertisers.

For my trusted pilot Rainman: I think he needs a new T-shirt from Dirty Goatees. Make it a long sleeve please. They have such cool designs and it will look good with that scraggly stuff on his face.

For my dear, sweet Mother: How about a sexy new bra from Adam & Eve to help hold her jugs in place? It seems that someone (no names mentioned) broke the clasp on her other one when they “claimed” to be wrestling the other night.

Ericka: She needs a new insurance policy. That last fender bender she had (you know teenagers) made her rates go

up. There are a couple of agents you can try listed in our pages this month.

The Cats: I don’t think you need to worry about them this year. I’ll take care of those two rat bastards myself.

Gunner: He really needs to clean his bike, so how about a round of detailing products from Pig Snot? Oh, wait a minute, better make that two rounds. Leyland’s bike is even dirtier than Gunner’s.

My Christmas List


Dude, look at what the cats did to me. I will so pay them back!

Keyman: He could use some new gloves to keep his hands warm while playing the keyboards at church. You can get those from The Hog Pound in Wimberley or Renegade Classics the Woodlands.

Ladybug: I think she would really like a weekend stay at the Koyote Ranch. If she takes Keyman with her then cancel the gloves. He can use his old socks instead.

Outlaw Dave: Can you make sure he has a good supply of HOT chicks when he goes on the air? He seems to do better with more ladies around him. Oh, and if you have time, could you please make arrangements for me to meet him? I’m a big fan of his show.

My editor Shelly: I think she would like a big box of red pens. I have an inkling that she has a fetish for red. I’ve heard she used to be a school teacher and the way she loves to correct my articles… well, you know.

Our CEO, Bob: For the man who has everything and never seems to return my phone calls, how about an oil change for his bike from Speedy Cycle Lube?

Rocky & Moose: Do you know who would love tickets to the St. Valentines Day Massacre would be great! They love to go every year.

Paul: He would just love to have a new seat for his glide. That way his hemorrhoids won’t bother him so bad on long trips. Both Boss Hog Seat Covers and Stitches Custom Seats do excellent work.

Hawk: American Man Cave has so many cool things I know they will have something perfect his man cave at home.

My buddy, Rex: Would love a gift certificate from 3 Nails Powder Coatings for his next Harley project.

Harry & Brenda: I think they would look good together in a

pair of matching old style Harley hats. They are really cool hats and Harry could ride in style if he had one. They are available from Vintage Harley Hats.

Now I do have a couple of friends who could use some lawyer services (you know who they are). I just know that Law Tigers and Walker Texas Lawyer should be able to help them.

And Santa, don’t forget that our Harley dealers and custom shops always have great deals on new bikes and accessories, even for the last minute shopper.

If it is not too much trouble, would it be possible for you to arrange some travel time for us? I think we could use some time off work to go and enjoy all of the many bars and biker destinations listed in the magazine.

Finally Santa, please don’t forget to get yourself something for Christmas this year. I bet if you popped on over to Papa Bags you could find a nice set of saddle bags for the old sled. And one last thing, why does everyone always wish for world peace at Christmas time? With all the fussing and fighting going on in the world, wouldn’t it be easier just to wish for World Beer?

We’ll see ya next year. Until then, Rainman and I would like to wish

you and your family a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Ride HARD or Stay Home.

Read more of Pig’s adventures on his blog page at pigspage.wordpress.com


Have I told you that you light up my life?

ighting for and bikers rights is a full time job for the TMRA2 state office and chapters. The bikers of Texas have to watch dog every little thing that happens at the capitol in Austin. If this state did not

have the activist watch dogs and the political pit bulls, what would Texas be like?

MARK YOUR CALENDER FOR JANUARY 28TH 2013. TMRA2 would like to encourage all bikers to come to the capitol and stand up for your rights. We want to shoot for five thousand this session. There is nothing like it anywhere; a sea of bikers riding to the capitol together, walking up the steps together, and marching in to meet their representatives. It makes our job much easier to work the capitol afterwards. When we work the capitol and ask them to vote for or against a bill, all that comes to mind is the thousands that stand behind us as we carry on the legacy of working motorcycle rights work in Texas. We make the big changes here on the state level and then teach other Motorcycle Rights Organizations (MROs) how we did it.

Currently we are writing up guidelines on everything from how to handle an officer pulling you over and the complaint process to “Knowing Your Rights”. We want to educate, to teach, to document the process.

Some of the legislators who have backed the bikers the most are people like Senators Tommy Williams who helped us pass through HB3324 and senator Kirk Watson. Kirk rides a Harley himself and has backed us on every issue that comes before him. He actually introduced the Fusion Center Privacy Bill for us and is also fighting to keep our dedicated funds (those that pay for motorcycle rider training and crash prevention, among other things) where they belong. Representative Jim Pitts also has a long history of protecting the motorcycle community. He, too, worked with Representative Norma Chavez to pass the first massive motorcycle safety in the state in 2009,

SB1967. He has also protected the rider training money for many sessions, so it does not get taken for other reasons. These are just a few examples of the good folks that work with us when we are in session.

Plan to be there with us on Legislative Day and watch Texas bikers once again making history. Our work is never finished at the Capitol. Not in 1995 when the first Legislative Day happened and not now in the current session. As we said in 1999, “Life is good for the Warrior’s in Texas”.

Ask off from work now and make your reservations.


Terri Williams, TMRA2 (Mar/Jun/Sep/Dec)

Legislative Day - Bikers at the Texas CapitolJanuary 28, 2013


t’s December and most of us are turning our attention to the upcoming holidays. While many of you won’t be riding (it is a little chilly), some of you will find the

warmer daytime temperatures around South Texas and the Southern Gulf Coast Region appealing. So ride now or save the map and ride it later.

The map started out taking a look at the famous Kingsville Ranch and grew from there to other interesting historic sites between there and our starting point, Corpus Christi. As with most of our small Texas towns, the route offers many beautiful old churches, great Main Street town centers, a ton of historical markers, and old buildings for the photographer in all of us.

We’ll start our jaunt in Corpus Christi, the eighth most populous city in the state. While there is a long history of American Indians, Mexican settlers, and explorers (including La Salle), the town wasn’t permanently inhabited until the 1800s. This large coastal city was officially founded in 1839 by Colonel Henry Lawrence Kinney as Kinney’s Trading Post or Kinney’s Ranch. The small post sold supplies to a Mexican revolutionary army camped about 25 miles west. In July 1845, US troops set up camp in preparation for war with Mexico, commanded by General Zachary Taylor. They remained in the area until March 1846. In 1847, the city was named Corpus Christi; incorporated in 1852. Union forces occupied nearby Mustang Island playing an integral part in the Civil War. In 1919 a hurricane struck, causing incredible damage and taking 400 lives. The Port of Corpus Christi, the fifth largest in the US, opened in 1926 and the Corpus Christi Naval Air Station was commissioned in 1941.

There is so much to see here, some obvious, like the USS Lexington and the Texas State Aquarium. But we’ll highlight some other things of interest. If you’re into ghost towns and old cemeteries – Nuecestown is located by Leopard Street, just a few hundred yards from I-37. Originally established as “The Motts” by English and German settlers in the early 1850’s, it was renamed after the Nueces River. In 1875, the town was raided by Mexican bandits, “The

Nuecestown Raid”. In 1885, Nuecestown had a school with 32 students, the largest I Nueces County. The preserved 1892 schoolhouse remains as a reminder of the small 200 population town that is no more. There are various historical markers to see – for the cemetery, the Raid, and the townships itself.

We can’t forget to mention the Points Across Texas program – and the fact that Corpus Christi is the Nueces County seat. So find the courthouse, hop of your bike, and take a quick picture to submit for your free Points Across Texas patch.

If you like old buildings, visit the Britton-Evans Centennial House (411 Upper Broadway). Built on a bluff overlooking Corpus Christi Bay after the fall of the Alamo, the two-story

house has proven almost as enduring as the old Spanish mission. Built in 1849 by Forbes and Rebecca Britton on land acquitted from Colonel Kinney, it is the oldest building in the city and still on its original site.

And while our map doesn’t take us there – you always have Padre Island and Mustang Island nearby, if you’re so inclined.

From Corpus, head out Highway 44 (off I-37). First stop,

just about 13 miles out of downtown Corpus, is the small town of Violet. Originally known as Land or Land Siding, this small community was founded by immigrant farmers in the early 1900s. Renamed Violet in 1913, after Violet Fister, the wife of the community’s first store keeper and postmaster. This stop is mainly for the old church enthusiast; for St Anthony’s Church, circa 1919. After being abandoned in 1972, the Violet Historical Society raised funds to return the building to Violet. In 1975, it was placed some 200 feet east of its original site and restored by third and fourth generation descendants of the original builders.

Continue on Highway 44 into Robstown; named for Robert Driscoll, lawyer, banker, rancher, and early advocate for the port of Corpus Christi. Founded in 1906, the location was the juncture of two railroads - the Texas and Mexican and the Brownsville and Mexican Railroads. The Texas Legislature officially recognizes Robstown as the birthplace of Texas Hold ‘em Poker. Of interest to see are the


It ’s Good to be King !By: Shelly Horan, Editor

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USS Lexington & Texas State Aquarium

Nuecestown School House

Centennial House

St Anthony’s Church

Murals in Robstown

numerous building murals around town.

Now we head south on Highway 77. At the intersection of FM 70 is Bishop. Originally part of the Driscoll Ranch; FZ Bishop, a Corpus Christi insurance agent, bought acreage in 1910 and formed the town, modestly named after himself. He was a planner, so by the time the first lots were sold, the town had electrical, telephone and sewage systems, paved streets, 600 palm trees planted along the streets, and sidewalks. Although he declared bankruptcy in 1916, the town continued to grow and prosper. Oil and gas discoveries in the 1940s kept the town flourishing. Bishop (d. 1950) is buried in the town cemetery.

Now on into Kingsville; full of Texas history and carved out of the infamous King Ranch. In 1854, Richard and Henrietta King established their home on the Santa Gertrudis Ranch, eventually renamed as King Ranch. When Richard died in 1885, Henrietta assumed full ownership of the estate, consisting of 500,000 acres of ranchland between Corpus Christi and Brownsville, and growing. By 1895, the now 650,000 acre ranch was engage in cattle and horse breeding experiments, as well as range grasses and

dry and irrigated farming experiments. The ranch continued to grow and by 1925, reached 1,173,000 acres. In 1903, she offered 75,000 acres of right-of-way to Uriah Lott and Benjamin Franklin Yoakum, who planned to construct the St Louis, Brownsville and Mexico Railway.

In 1904, she furnished townsites for Kingsville and Raymondville, both located on the new railway. She further assisted Kingsville by founding various corporations to support the growth; including lumber, power, publishing, ice and milling, cotton gin and more. She also constructed the First Presbyterian Church and donated land for Baptist, Methodist, Episcopal, and Catholic churches. She built various other Kingsville public buildings, such as schools, hospitals, and libraries.

Henrietta died on March 31, 1925 on the King Ranch and was buried in Kingsville. At her funeral, an honor guard of 200 vaqueros riding quarter horses, branded with the ranch’s “Running W”, flanked the hearse. Each rider cantered once around the open grave.

Visit and tour part of the Ranch through the King Ranch Visitor’s Center (2205 Highway 141 West). Also visit the King Ranch Museum (405 North 6th Street) for more insight on the history and workings of this historic estate. Also of interest in Kingsville is the authentically restored 1904 Train Depot Museum (50 East Kleberg Avenue) and the John E Conner Museum on the Texas A&M at Kingsville campus (905 W Santa Gertrudis Avenue).

And, again, Kingsville is another county seat – Kleberg

County; named for Robert Justus Kleberg, a German-Texan. Mostly importantly (in our minds) he was a veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto. His son, Robert Justus Kleburg, Jr. served as legal counsel to the King Ranch, and took over the management of the ranch after Henrietta’s death. He is credited, along with Henrietta, for the phenomenal growth of the ranch and improvements of the area.

From here, we simply back-track the route, returning to Corpus Christi. Total round-trip ride time is about 2 hours and a total of almost 85 miles. There are many other small, and historic towns in the area to visit if you have time; namely: Banquete, named for a four-day feast celebrating the completion of the road linking San Patricio, Texas and Matamoros, Mexico; Sarita, home of the Kenedy Ranch; Falfurrias, another mural town; Alice, with King-Kleburg historic connections; Orange Grove, named for just what you think, a huge grove of orange trees; and Mathis, home of Lake Corpus Christi. Maybe we’ll do another map of the area soon.


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It ’s Good to be King ! ... continued

Bishop Cemetery

King Ranch Museum, St Martin’s Catholic Church and the Kingsville Historic Railroad Depot


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Event ListingThe MOST comprehensive motorcycle event listing published in the State of Texas!

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Chula Chaser Christmas Party ChulaChaser.com Ft Worth Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort WorthOpen to all bikers, benefiting the Tarrant/Dallas County Toy Run. Noon-8pm at Score Sports Bar (7711 Camp Bowie West, Ft Worth, 76116). Live music by Terry Razor & Friends. 50/50 raffles, auction and door prizes.

12th Annual Parker County Toy Run 817.800.8158 Weatherford Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

15th Mesquite Santa Cop Toy Parade CrossRoadRiders.com Dallas Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

3rd Annual East Texas Toy Run ToysForTotsEastTexToyRun.com Willis Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

4th Annual Toy Run benefiting Houston Shriners Hospital ArabiaMotorCorp.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

6th Annual Navarro County Toy Run Firehouse-Bikers.us Corsicana Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

7th Annual Buddy Oney Toy Run 512.540.2561; 512.446.2821 Rockdale Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Killeen/Temple

7th Annual Toys for Tots Event Facebook.com/events/249976218438138/ Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Custom Specialties 20th Annual Toy Run 409.935.9873 La Marque Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

DFW Toys for Tots Motorcycle Run DFW-TFT-MR.org McKinney Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Motorcycle Toy Run CityOfLewisville.com Lewisville Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

NWSJHR Toy Run NWSJHR.com 832.577.1823 Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonNorthwest San Jacinto High Rollers’ annual escorted ride from Honda of Houston to the Boys & Girls Country (501(c)3 charitable home). Kickstands up at Noon, sharp. Outlaw Dave leads the pack as Santa. Online pre-registration available now – only $10/person. Bring a NEW UNWRAPPED gift for ages 2-18 (10-18 more needed) or donate $15/person or more at the event. An ADULT after party hosted by Brick House Tavern & Tap, with live auction, music, biker jail, lotto hat, and prize for best decorated bike.

13th Annual Black Sheep MC Toy Run [email protected] Seagoville Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

13th Annual Wise County Toy Run WCToyRun.com Decatur Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

20th Annual Tri-County Toy Run TriCountyToyRun.org Temple Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Killeen/Temple

29th Annual Johnson County Toy Run JohnsonCountyToyRun.com Cleburne Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Lone Star Bike Night LoneStar925.com DFW Area Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort WorthIt’s a roaming bike night! Randy James of Lone Star 92.5 hosts an every Thursday bike night at various locations around town. Visit LoneStar925.com for information about upcoming bike nights. Proudly sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas!

JLBB 8th Annual Christmas Party JLBB.org Fresno Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

10th Annual East Texas Toy Run CossacksMC.net Terrell Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

19th Annual Toys for Tots Toy Run ToysforTotsToyRun.com Pasadena Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

2012 MRDC Annual Children’s Run VFWMGTX8.org San Antonio Region: South Texas Metro: San Antonio

9th Annual Butch Adkison Memorial Toy Run 214.676.7282 Wills Point Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Bikers 4 Bicycles Run 903.874.7131 Corsicana Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Tri-County Holiday Ride ChristmasWishToyProject.org Hempstead Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

9th Annual Toy Run GoeHarley-Davidson.com Angleton Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Six Skulls MC 2nd Annual Toy Run [email protected] The Colony Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Lone Star Bike Night LoneStar925.com DFW Area Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort WorthThe LAST bike night of 2012! It’s a roaming bike night! Randy James of Lone Star 92.5 hosts an every Thursday bike night at various locations around town. Visit LoneStar925.com for information about upcoming bike nights. Lone Star Bike Nights will resume in March/April, weather permitting. Watch Thunder Roads Texas for updates! Proudly sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas!27th Annual Big Texas Toy Run TheBigTexasToyRun.com Dallas Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth


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... continuedEvenT ListingTexoma Toys for Tots TexomaHD.com Sherman Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Sherman/Dennison

Wrapping for Teal Facebook.com/events/410879858967035/ Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Wreaths Across America WAAHouston.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Wreaths Across America 972.394.8874; 214.437.3641 Dallas Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Gypsy MC Fort Bend Annual Toy Run FortBendGypsy.com Katy Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

6th Annual Adopt a Hero Christmas Trip AdoptAHeroForChristmas.org Katy Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT – NORTH WEDNESDAY this nonth! ThunderRoadsTexas.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonWe’re hosting a Biker Christmas Party up north! Join Bob & Shelly and a few hundred of our closest friends for our monthly bike night at Concert Pub North – ON WEDNESDAY this month. Holiday shenanigans, contests, great food specials, drink specials – and fun holiday games!

Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT – SOUTH ThunderRoadsTexas.com Kemah Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonWe’re hosting a second Biker Christmas Party down south! Join Bob & Shelly and a few hundred of our closest friends for our monthly bike night at Jackie’s Brickhouse. Holiday shenanigans, contests, great food specials, drink specials – and fun holiday games!

January 1, 2013 New Year’s Day CMA Bike Blessings [email protected] Texas City Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

January 27-28, 2013 Legislative Weekend 2013 LegislativeDay.TMRA2.org Austin Region: Hill Country Metro: AustinFebruary 8-10, 2013 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre MassacreRally.com Boerne Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio36th Annual St. Valentine’s Day Massacre hosted by Alamo City Gypsy MC. We’re returning to our roots and heading back to Hondo, TX! Come join us at the Hondo City Park and Fairgrounds located at 733 FM Rd 462 N. Plenty of camping and room for self-contained RV’s. Over 45 food and merchandise vendors. Run Pins for the first 1000. 1st Annual Jalapeño Eating Contest. For info visit our website or call (210) 601-1932. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas!February 22-23, 2013 Jalapeno Bike Rally and Bike Run jalapenofest.org Laredo Region: South Texas Metro: Laredo

March 8-17, 2013 Daytona Bike Week DaytonaBikeWeek.com Daytona, FL

March 14-17, 2013 Blowouts Biker Bash BlowoutsBikerBash.com Hitchcock Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonRegistration opens soon for Blowout’s second annual biker rally & party. Bike games; special contests, including best leprechaun nighty contest; best dressed leprechaun; best St Patty’s Day themed campsite. Live music all weekend, with the ever popular Mambo Jazz Kings headlining Saturday night! Adult rally; 21 & up only. Held at the Galveston County Fairgrounds in Hitchcock. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas!

April 10-14 Arizona Bike Week AZBikeWeek.com Scottsdale, AZ

April 11-14, 2013 Carts, Bikers & Babes Rally CartsBikersAndBabesRally.com Somerville Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College StationLET OUT YOUR BAD! Early bird special going NOW. Pre-register online today. Bands, biker games, stage games/contests, after hours campsite parties, and more! Mark your calendars, pre-register, and get the babysitters set!

April 12-14, 2013 TMRA State Rally TMRA.org Comanche Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Abilene

April 19-21, 2013 The Oldest Town in Texas (OTT) Rally OTTRally.com Nacogdoches Region: Piney Woods Metro: TylerApril 20-23, 2013 TCOC&I State Rally COCTX.org Katy Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

April 24-28, 2013 Hawgs of Texas Rally HawgsOfTexas.com Somerville Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station

May 3 International Female Ride Day InternationalMay 3-5, 2013 Hill Country Run Motorcycle Rally HillCountryRun.com Bandera Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio

May 10-19 Myrtle Beach Bike Week Spring Rally MyrtleBeachBikeWeek.com Myrtle Beach, SC

May 16-18, 2013 Texas State HOG Rally TXStateHOGRally.com San Antonio Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio

May 16-19, 2013 Rally in the Crater - Spring Rallys-R-Us.com Mount Enterprise, TX Region: Piney Woods Metro: Longview

May 16-19 The Aspen Cash Rally MotorcycleRally.com Ruidoso, NM

May 31-June 3, 2013 Branson Motorcycle Rally BransonMotorcycleRally.com Branson, MO

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his article is for all you biker gals and all you gals who ride with or live with us biker guys here in Texas. As you already know, us guys have almost everything we need most of the time but we never have everything we need all of the time. So when you run out of ideas for that man of yours who has almost everything, here is a list of good man-gifts any time of the year, particularly at Christmas.

Tools…air pressure gauges…wrenches…screwdrivers…socket sets…a hex key set…wire strippers…a man can

never have too many tools! Tools are always a good thing and never go to waste. For

those of you girls who are a bit more adventurous, and have a few more bucks to spend, guys can always use a good

air compressor or a floor jack.

A battery charger. I know every man in Texas is just like me. He has at least one car, one pickup, one lawn mower, a weed eater, and several

other “toys” with a battery. Then we have our bikes, sometimes multiple bikes, that all have

batteries. All the battery powered equipment that we own needs a charge from

time to time and a battery charger is the way to go. PS; a set of jumper

cables makes a great gift too!

As bikers are constantly in the elements, gloves

are a perfect gift every time. Light-weight gloves for summer, mid-weight gloves for spring and fall, and the full gauntlet-style heated gloves for the winter riding season makes every biker smile. If you are really sly, you can buy him gloves that are too small for his hands and he’ll give them to you “when they don’t fit”!

Flash lights…and batteries. Like all the other tools we have, guys need a flashlight in every vehicle, storage building, closet, or drawer in the house, shop, and work shed. And when we go to use those flashlights, the batteries are always shot, so a good supply of every imaginable type of battery is something we can always use.

A wireless remote for…anything! We love our toys and if we can do it with a remote control, all the better. Now if someone would invent a remote that would open the fridge and get us a cold beer, we’d be set!

Speaking of beer, BEER! We think about beer before we have a beer, when we are having a beer, and after we’ve had a beer. We dream about beer. Beer is our friend and it is always good to have a few bottles around to share with our friends as we sit on the porch and contemplate the origins of beer. So girls, beer is always a great gift for your man.

The next best thing to beer is touring a place where they make beer. Yes, a brewery tour is a great gift for any man. Some say a brewery tour, with the free samples at the end of the tour, is better than sex. Not me of course, but I have heard it said by… you know, some people.

Any gift that has anything to do with Route 66 will be cherished forever.

A solar powered phone charger. A GPS unit, however, is not a good gift idea for guys because a) we never get lost and b) we never stop to ask direction anyway!

Lingerie. Not for us… for you biker girls, of course! Lingerie is one of those win-win situations you always hear about! The next best thing would be to wrap yourself in leather…and only leather…and surprise your man on Christmas morning!

All movies on DVD or BluRay including Easy Rider, Wild Hogs, the Wild One or anything with John Wayne, Marlon Brando, Steve McQueen or Clint Eastwood! There is no other kind of movie.

A vacation to any of the great biker destinations – Sturgis, Laconia, Daytona, Texas Hill Country, etc. Like movies, there is no other type of vacation!

If none of these gift ideas seem to be just right for you man, a simple “I Love You” will get to him every time…and that’s the best gift of all.

While this article is obviously written as humor, I want to extend a heartfelt Merry Christmas and Happy New Years to our editors, Bob and Shelly, and to all of you Thunder Roads Texas readers and fellow bikers. Your unselfish work and charity throughout the year pays tribute to the great people you are. I want to also acknowledge our many advertisers who help keep this magazine going for the Texas motorcycle community. It has been a great 2012 and I look forward to seeing you at a rally or on the road in 2013.


Holid

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eShopping for the GuysT

o you grab the first thing you see on the end cap of a shopping isle on display? If you are guilty of this, take some notes!

Yep, it’s that time of the year! Time to go holiday shopping, brave the crowds and get it wrapped and under the tree! Don’t fret gentlemen. I’m here to walk you through it! For those who are great gift buyers, bear with me, I’ll get to the list. For those who might need a little help, let me start with Gift Buying 101.

It’s not hard to become a good gift buyer. To gain some ideas for the person in mind think about her preferences. Example: Her favorite color and her favorite color to wear. No these are not necessarily the same. Favorite clothing style is simple, look in the closet and while you’re there write down her sizes. That will keep her from opening a gift that she has to return. It will also keep her from opening up a shirt that looks like a tent instead of one that flatters her form.

Ok, keeping the person in mind you’re shopping for also means that when you make it to the store for gifts, you’re there shopping for her and not yourself! I know the new sparkly bike on the show room floor is begging you to walk over and take a look, but stick to the mission! While you’re browsing through the biker bling, clothing, riding gear, etc. keep in mind one thing… “Will she like it?” Not, “Do I like it”. Sometimes yes, we like what you like for us, but quite often we are simply an individual. Buying a gift is not about what you like, it’s about what the other person likes. Don’t believe me? We should all be thankful for what we receive, but honestly would you rather receive something you prefer or something that was bought for you to satisfy a need to be given a gift?

If you get desperate and are still searching, refer back to the closet in your mind. What is there the most of? Here is an example of how I think about my closet… ”Maybe I have a hundred Harley shirts because I love them?” It’s not “Oh, I got another Harley shirt”. It’s, “I got something I like!” If you’re going to error in gift buying, it’s better to error with something she actually likes than to get her something so way off that she wonders if you know her at all! Hope that helps a little! Ok, now down to the list!

Clean bike: Let me throw out there I hate to wash my bike! If you don’t polish hers up for her then get her a gift certificate to wash her bike! If she is the do it herself kind of girl, then a bucket of cleaning supplies and rags is nice.

Riding gear: I don’t think we can ever have enough riding gear. If you ride a lot, it just wears out and needs to be replaced! In our Texas climate there is truly winter and one hot summer! Basically, winter and summer riding gear is all that is necessary. Sometimes it’s just nice to have new.

Music: This is one of the best gifts I got for my bike. I ride a Forty Eight which means no music. I love my iPod Touch. It is loaded with tons of music. I slip it in a pocket and off I go! Maybe a new stereo for the “music lover” with a fairing?

Vacation spot: Reservations for a romantic bed and breakfast you can ride

to in the near future. Sharing a saddle or side by side, somewhere to go, or nowhere to go; riding is fun. Make points having somewhere to go that is special and memorable.

Camera: Ok, now I don’t know too many bikers out there that don’t take pictures. It’s kind of hard to go wrong with a new camera. Some may prefer the throw away kind.

Clothing: If you’re not brave enough to pick something out a gift certificate to the store is nice. Of course you score more points if you pick something out!

Movies: Ok, if she’s a Jacks Teller fan…he he…then it would be ok to buy her the past season of Sons of Anarchy. If not, sorry you don’t get to secretly be excited to buy it for her.

Bike bling: Harley makes a ton of items for a blinged out bike! Chrome counts as well! Don’t forget we like loud pipes too!

Riding course: Typically we take a beginners riding course and are done with classes. Harley offers an advanced riders course. My friends tell me it’s a great course and it also gives you a discount off your motorcycle insurance. Added bonus I say!

Biker cruise: Book a Biker Cruise! Yes, you heard me, Biker Cruise. Ok, I have only heard about them. What I have learned is it’s basically a rally on a boat! Cannon ball contests in the pool, typical rally games, etc. The best part, you get to take your own bike to the Caribbean. Go check it out highseasrally.com

Stocking stuffers: Bandannas, hair accessories, jewelry, lip gloss, bell for her bike, small tools for the bags, lotto tickets and a mountable cup holder.

Ok, so enough with filling your head with ideas! Get out there and shop! Get it done so you can go browse the show room floor. Remember the best gift you can give anyone is the gift of love!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our staff, advertisers, and our Thunder Roads Texas readers. Thank you for letting me be a part of a magazine that is made by Texas Riders for Texas Riders, in their Texas communities! Keep the rubber side down and I look forward to seeing you all in 2013!

EDITORS NOTE: To make Christmas shopping even easier this year, we offer the following dedicated pages of advertisers who want your business. Support us by supporting our advertisers! Shop them now - shop them regularly! And make sure they know you saw them in Thunder Roads Texas!

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Holiday Shopping Guide

Shopping for the Girls


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Want to see YOUR mug in our mag? Send pics to [email protected].

12 Days of a Biker Christmas

This Christmas, my biker gave to me… First Day: A heated seat for my ride Second day: Two roaring mufflers Third day: Three motorcycle movies Fourth day: Four shiny crash bars Fifth day: Five cases of beer Sixth day: Six pairs of riding gloves Seventh day: Seven toy run flyers Eighth day: Eight bar maids a pourin’ Ninth day: Nine pole dancing strippers Tenth day: Ten buds to ride with Eleventh day: Eleven Southern Rock CDs Twelfth day: Twelve twisty road maps

The main reason that Santa is so jolly…Because he knows where all the bad girls live.

A Politically Correct Christmas Greeting

Best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low stress, non-addictive, gender neutral, winter solstice holiday, practiced within the most joyous traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, but with respect for the religious persuasion of others who choose to practice their own religion as well as those who choose not to practice a religion at all;

Additionally, a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling, and medically uncomplicated recognition of the generally accepted calendar year 2000, but not without due respect for the calendars of choice of other cultures whose contributions have helped make our society great, without regard to the race, creed, color, religious, or sexual preferences of the wishes.

(Disclaimer: This greeting is subject to clarification or withdrawal. It implies no promise by the wisher to actually implement any of the wishes for her/himself or others and no responsibility for any unintended emotional stress these greetings may bring to those not caught up in the holiday spirit.)

Kids Say the Darndest Things – Letters to Santa

Dear Santa, It’s not necessary to get me a toy, but if you do, I would like a surprise (again).

Dear Santa, I like the letter you sent me! Does Rudolph have a red nose? Does he have two noses?

Dear Santa, I want a Droid2 Global smartphone from Verizon (my carrier).

Dear Santa, I wanted to tell you I am fine. Could you possibly make me turn into a dragon pleeeaasseee! Or a pet dragon. Either one will do.

Dear Santa, I would like to know if you’re real. I believe, but my friends don’t. So can you give me a signed picture of you and Mrs. Claus? Please, please send back a bell from your sled. Ohh, besides are you really fat? Or do you diet?

Dear Santa, If you bring presents that need batteries, please bring batteries.

Dear Santa, I don’t ask for much, so if you don’t get at least two of these things, I will literally KILL you! Do you understand?

Last Christmas, an old biker found it difficult to go out for shopping so he decided to send gift cards to relatives and friends instead of sending presents. In every card he wrote “Please purchase gift of your choice” and mailed it. After the holidays he realized that he had received only a few Christmas cards in return. Puzzled over this, he went into his room, intending to write a couple of his relatives to ask what had happened. It was then, as he cleared off his cluttered desk that he got his answer. Under a stack of

papers, he was horrified to find the gift cards which he had forgotten to enclose with the cards.

Three old bikers died on Christmas Eve and were met by Saint Peter at the pearly gates.

“In honor of this holy season,” Saint Peter said, “You must each possess something that symbolizes Christmas to get into heaven.”

The biker from Louisiana fumbled through his pockets and pulled out a lighter. He flicked it on. “It represents a candle,” he said.

“You may pass through the pearly gates,” Saint Peter replied.

The biker from Oklahoma reached into his pocket and pulled out a set of keys. He shook them and said, “They’re bells.”

Saint Peter said, “You may pass through the pearly gates.”

The biker from Texas started searching desperately through his pockets and finally pulled out a pair of women’s panties.

St. Peter looked at the man with a raised eyebrow and asked, “And just what do those symbolize?”

The old Texan replied, “These are Carol’s.”

And So The Christmas Season Begins…

The Thunder Roads Texas Family wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Safe & Happy New Year!


Accessories & Parts* Stitches 1308 Hwy 6 South Houston, TX 77077 281.558.8572 Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

Bands & EntertainmentBE THE FIRST! ONLY $149/YEAR http://ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Bars & Restaurants* Deanville Bar & Grill 1789 FM 60 S Deanville, TX 77852 979.535.7776 Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Bryan/College Station

* Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop Bent Rim Grill 657 West Ranch Rd Leakey, TX 78873 830.232.6629 www.friocanyonmotorcycleshop.com www.bentrimgrill.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio

* Headwaters Saloon 229 S Ranch Rd 783 Harper, TX 78631 830.377.5034 Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio

* Hot Rods and Harleys Bar & Grill 13124 FM 306 Canyon Lake, TX 78133 830.864.2911 www.hotrodsandharleysbar.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio* Iron Hawg Saloon 6109 E FM 1462 Rosharon, TX 77583 281.595.2121 http://ironhawgsaloon.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston* Johnny O’s Ole House Tavern 9905 Camp Bowie West Fort Worth, TX 76116 817.874.2535 www.chulachaser.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

* Loading Dock, The 504 25th St Galveston, TX 77550 409.765.5155 http://loadingdockgalveston.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Noah’s Ark Bar & Grill 4438 Boulevard St Bacliff, TX 77518 281.339.2895 www.noahsarkbarandgrill.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston* Rolling Thunder Bar & Grill 6441 County Rd 2173 Fluvanna, TX 79517 325.573.HAWG (4294) http://rollingthunderbarandgrill.com/Home_Page.php Region: Panhandle Closest Metro: Lubbock

* RPM’s Bar 26210 FM 2978 Magnolia, TX 77354 281.259.7789 Region: Piney Woods Closest Metro: Houston

* Tommaso’s Italian Restaurant 507 N Gordon St Alvin, TX 77511 281.331.6262 www.tomasositaliangrill.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* West of the Brazos 23220 Hwy 36 Damon, TX 77430 979.742.3100 www.WestoftheBrazos.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston* Yankee’s Tavern 8703 Ada Oaks Ln Anderson, TX 77830 936.873.3314 www.yankeestavern.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Bryan/College Station

Dealerships & Shops* Collin County Choppers AKA Frisco Custom Cycles 6427 Main St Frisco, TX 75034 214.387.0650 www.collincountychoppers.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

* Cowboy’s Alamo City H-D 11005 IH 35 North San Antonio, TX 78233 800.397.7875 www.cowboysalamocityharley.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

* Custom Cycles Texas 14205 River Rd New Braunfels, TX 78132 210.846.1081 www.customcyclestexas.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio

* Cycle Heaven 3770 Hwy 69 N Lufkin, TX 75904 936.634.8404 www.cycleheaventx.com Region: Piney Woods Closest Metro: Tyler

* Harley-Davidson of Kingwood 111 Northpines Dr Kingwood, TX 77339 281.358.0457 www.kingwoodharley.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Harley-Davidson of Waco 4201 S Jack Kultgen Expy Waco, TX 76711 254-753-0393 www.hdwaco.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Waco

* Hawgs N Dawgs Motorcycle Shop & Café 1333 SE Military Dr San Antonio, TX 78214 210.924.0203 www.HawgsNDawgs.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

* Javelina Harley-Davidson 29078 I-10 West Boerne, TX 78006 800-860-9696 www.javelinaharleydavidson.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio

* Legacy Harley-Davidson 12100 W Hwy 80 East Odessa, TX 79765 800.788.6921 www.legacyh-d.com Region: Big Bend Closest Metro: Midland/Odessa


Biker Friendly These businesses are SERIOUS about serving the Texas Motorcycle Community. The list is set up in business categories. Regional and Metro information is included. An “ * ” means the location is a Thunder Roads Texas distribution point. Visit ThunderRoadsTexas.com to find a full listing of distribution points. Tell them you saw them in Thunder Road Texas! Want to be on this list - it’s only $149/YEAR - visit our website or email [email protected] for information.



... continuedBiker Friendly * Longhorn Harley-Davidson 2830 West I-20 Grand Parairie, TX 75052 972.988.1903 www.longhornhd.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Ft Worth

* Mancuso Harley Davidson - Crossroads 12710 Crossroads Park Dr Houston, TX 77065 281.970.9700 www.mancusocrossroads.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Motorcycle Tire Shop 1917 S Hackberry San Antonio, TX 78210 210.533 BIKE (2453) http://motorcycletireshop.synthasite.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

* Phantom Rider Choppers 6535 West Hwy 46 New Braunfels, TX 78132 830.228.4606 www.phantomriderchoppers.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio

* Potterosa Cycles & ATVs 19447 FM 1485 New Caney, TX 77357 281.689.0400 www.potterosa.net/ Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Southern Metal Choppers 11116 Middle Fiskville Rd, Ste E Austin, TX 78753 512.833.5044 www.southernmetalchoppers.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: Austin

* Thunder Alley Cycles 416 NE Wilshire Blvd Burleson, TX 76028 817.295.0955 www.thunderalleycycles.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Ft Worth* Tugs Cycles 19529 County Rd, #2 Brazoria, TX 77422 979.798.6061 Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Woods Cycle Country 1933 I-35 East New Braunfels, TX 78130 830.606.9828 www.woodscyclecountry.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio

* Yamaha of San Antonio 15664 I-35 Selma, TX 78154 210.655.2625 http://www.kps-sa.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

For the Girls* Coco & Duckie 20 E Main St Bellville, TX 77418 979.865.9393 www.CocoAndDuckie.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Houston

GOT GREAT BIKER GIRL GEAR? ADVERTISE HERE! http://ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Insurance & Attorneys* Ball Insurance 416 S Main St Highlands, TX 77562 800.444.7014 www.ballins.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Farrar & Ball Law Firm; Law Tigers 1010 Lamar, Ste 1600 Houston, TX 77002 713.221.8300 www.lawtigers.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Insurance Lady Agency 642 W Rhapsody, Ste A San Antonio, TX 78216 210.403.2216 http://insuranceladyinc.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

Walker Texas Lawyer 1924 Portsmouth Houston, TX 77098 713.552.1117 www.walkertexaslawyer.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

Lodging & Campgrounds* D’Rose Inn & Cabins Highway 83/Market St Leakey, TX 78873 830.232.5246 www.droseinn.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio

DUBL-C Guest House (Vacation Rentals by Owner) Kerrville area: located on Hwy 39 between Ingram & Hunt; Stay 2 Nights, get 3rd FREE 866.427.8374 www.vrbo.com/385945 Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio

The Overnight Bunkhouse Bed & Kitchen 13132 Highway 90 North Singleton, TX 77831 936.395.2601 Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston* Three Sisters Rally & Lodge 751 River Road Camp Wood, TX 78833 www.ThreeSistersRally.net Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio

Motorcycle TowingCyclone Cycle Rescue 1100 Crane Dr Euless, 76039 76039 817.308.9086 www.MotorcycleTowingTX.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

* Dragonstar Motorcycle Transportation PO Box 444 Bryan, TX 77806 281.935.8890 www.getaride.net Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Bryan/College Station

Riding Gear & Leather Goods* American Man Cave 18 E Main St Bellville, TX 77418 979.865.9383 www.american-man-cave.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Houston

* Motorcycle Outpost, The 103 S College Westminster, TX 75409 972.838.8222 www.TheMotorcycleOutpost.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

MiscellaneousAFL Motorcycle Camping Trailers [email protected] 281.685.5814 Cell, 832.695.0077 www.afltrailers.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

American Legion Post 402 11457 US Highway 190 West LIvingston, TX 77351 936.646.7411

Outlaw Dave Productions PO Box 25028 Houston, TX 77265 www.OutlawNation.us Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston


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Thunder Roads Texas - January 2013