Thunder Roads Texas - May 2014

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

May 2014

Republic of Texas (ROT) RallyAustin, TexasJune 12-15, 2014

ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Also this month: Pig Writes EXTRA 2014 Tour of Honor We’re Still Shinin’ On Texas Rider Profile

Celebrating 19 Years


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On the Cover32 Still Going Strong - Celebrating 19 Years!

Also Inside16 Reader Recommended: Restrooms19 Pig Writes Extra: A Man and His Dreams34 The 2014 Tour of Honor36 We’re Still Shinin’ On38 TexasRiderProfile:LisaTomlinsonSPECIAL EVENT SECTION: 20-33

Regular Features6 LetterFromtheEditor8 Two Wheel Thunder TV: Promo Coins10 Pig Writes: What Will You Do This Memorial Day?13 RideMap:LowerPanhandleLoop40 ThunderCam42 Joker’s Wild

Resources21 EventListingCENTER - Pull-Out May 2014 Calendar45 BikerFriendlyListing

Contents

May 2014

On the cover: The Republic of Texas (ROT) Rally parade on 6th Street. Courtesy of the Republic of Texas Rally.

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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 andThunder 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 “Just One More” CooneyCEO

[email protected]

Shelly “TX Dragonfly” HoranManaging Editor

[email protected]

FEATURE WRITERS

“Pig” Meinhardt - Pig WritesTwo Wheel Thunder TV - Product Reviews

CORRESPONDENTS

Joyce Siegert - D/FW; Dean Downey - Amarillo; Shelly “Cricket” Silva - San Antonio; Don Brewer - Livingston; Donny Phillips - LaPorte; Mike “Biker” Boone - Houston; Jason English - East Texas; Don McGovern - Terrell/DFW; Donna Herrin - Edinburgh; Leah Hanscom - Piney Woods; Raul Carrasco - San Antonio.

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

Facebook.com/ThunderRoadsTexas

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Randy [email protected]

Monica [email protected]

Points Across Texas Administrator

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

Shelly “Cricket” Silva San Antonio/Hill Country

[email protected] * 210.445.2477Chris Hensley

San Antonio/Hill Country [email protected]

210.912.7852Raymond Meinhardt

San Antonio/Hill Country [email protected]

210.410.5783

ADVERTISING SALES

May is upon us and we’re still heavy in rally season. In April I was supposed to lead the Bikers Helping Babies ride. Unfortunately, the rain chances on Galveston (and along my two-hour ride home that afternoon) were such that I made a difficult call to not ride; I’m just not experienced enough in the rain to ride with a group that size. Denise and her crew were great sports – letting one our staff, Donny Phillips, ride up front on my behalf. For those who did ride… “You’re welcome”! Had I ridden – it absolutely would have stormed; Murphy and I have this special relationship!

Bob & I also hit the Carts, Bikers & Babes Rally at Lake Somerville. As always, Damon Dave and Wendy put on one helluva party. Saturday morning, they served free Bloody Mary’s until they were gone! The place was absolutely packed. What a great turn out… what a great time! As of print, the Oldest Town in Texas (OTT) Rally has yet to happen, but Jason English, from our staff, will be on hand to represent Thunder Roads Texas! We’re sure Dennis and his crew will put on a really fun rally – they always do!

This month, we are pleased to have the Republic of Texas (ROT) Rally gracing our cover! They are celebrating 19 years this year and are promising a great weekend… topped off with headliner, Sammy Hagar, on Saturday night. We have some tickets to ROT Rally to give away during May. Watch our Facebook page (Facebook.com/ThunderRoadsTexas) for special contests. If you haven’t liked our page yet – be sure you do – it’s the only way you’ll have a chance to win.

Our Reader Recommended is a hoot! We received some really good potty shots! We’ve been collecting your recommendations for that sweet treat, PIE. Deadline is May 5 for those. This month, we’re calling for your favorite road to ride in Texas. Keep the great recommendations coming… all of us and our readers appreciate the “thumbs up”!

A great big “THANKS” to Julie with the Texas Honor Ride. I’m very pleased to sport my new boot bling - a nail-cross handmade for the Texas Honor Ride. You can buy one too! All proceeds go to the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, helping our Wounded Warriors. Visit their website (TexasHonorRide.org) or one of their events (like the Fun Run in Texas City May 3) to get yours!

Lastly, but definitely most important, I send out a “holler” to all the mothers out there... keeping it “real”! And to our Military folks and hteir families; we can’t do what we do without you!

Ride safe... and ride with THUNDER!

Shelly “TX Dragonfly” HoranCo-Owner and Managing Editor, Thunder Roads Texas and Owner, Top of Mind Marketing [email protected]

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his is a product review unlike any we have ever done before. A product that is versatile, memorable, and potentially financially rewarding. Businesses

both large and small can use them. Clubs, non-profit organizations, and even individuals can use them. Harley-Davidson dealers use a similar item, Marines and high ranking military use them. Congress, the Senate, and even the President uses them. Home poker parties use them, as well as casinos.

They are used as a marketing tool, a collector’s item, a business card, a special gift, a challenge, a fundraiser, and even as money. They are called promo coins as in “promotional”; a marketing tool much like a business card only much more memorable.

The company that is Promo Coins is just as notable. A proud man who served in our military owns the company. Kevin Doran comes from a long line of military heroes; his grandfather, father, and uncles all served our Nation and they support the ideals of our country and American Made Products!

Kevin was taught by his father at an early age to work with his hands. His love for working with his hands continued to grow and eventually transitioned into a flourishing business. It all began when his friends wanted a poker table. He built one that was better quality then what they could buy. That grew into making a couple more for friends and through the years it grew into Str8 Custom (Str8Custom.com) making high-end custom tables for games such as poker, blackjack, roulette, and craps. Some of the products he makes are high-end gaming tables for private individuals, professional athletes, and for various casino party companies. Along with the gaming tables, the demand grew for custom felts, casino gaming supplies, and poker chips. With his military background, this made for an easy transition to the Challenge Coin arena. This, then, gave birth to a whole new industry called “promo coins”.

Promo Coins started in 2012 after a name change from the division of the company that made Str8 Custom Coins. The name change has proven to be memorable and well-received. The company provides an alternative to the expensive metal challenge coins. Promo Coins helps businesses, charities, and individuals highlight their abilities and accomplishments while also helping them raise money and awareness by utilizing their coins.

Many active and retired Military personal continue their careers as consultants and executives with Military affiliated companies. Because challenge coins are so easily recognized, many companies use them as business cards so they will stand out from their competition.

Traditionally, challenge coins were made of metal and where expensive due to the materials used along with the set-up and die fees associated with the mold process to cast the coin. Challenge coins have gained in popularity but the cost and set-up fees remain relatively high. The majority of Promo Coins business involves the use of the ceramic type of coins, although they still provide a metal challenge coin and also some lower-end poker chips upon request.

An advantage of using ceramic coins is that they typically save you 45-80% in cost and 50% in turn-around time. Also, ceramic has a blank canvas that allows you to host any image and an unlimited number of colors at no additional cost. The images and colors are embedded into the ceramic material using a heat sublimation process to give an extremely durable and long lasting product. Promo

Coins offer many different sizes, thickness, and even shapes.

Many organizations have used these coins as a marketing tool

and fundraising item. This item is a perfect

keepsake and ceramic coins are typically priced

under $10.00. For fundraising, this makes a perfect incentive.

Kevin Doran has a passion for giving back and growing Promo Coins by inspiring others to get involved with an organization to donate either their time or money. Kevin and his wife are active in their community and split their time between many organizations. They are passionate about getting people to stay active and getting involved. Kevin and Promo Coins donate 50 coins per month to a charity to help them to raise money and awareness for their cause. For 2014, Promo Coins will donate a portion of their profits to VETSports (VetSports.org), an organization that helps returning Wounded Warriors transition back into civilian life through sporting events.

Promo Coins is growing exponentially with strategic partnerships. They are dedicated to minimizing expenses and passing on the savings to their customers. Go to their website, PromoCoins.com, to browse and get lots of ideas or give them a call at 727-916-2235.


Promo Coins


ere in the month of May, we as a country set aside one day to honor those who have sacrificed all to protect our country and our freedoms. That day, of

course, is Memorial Day. Throughout our nation’s history, men and women chose to dedicate their lives to a cause so few can really understand. It can be summed up in a few words used by, and lived by, those brave souls who lost their lives; words like Honor, Courage, and Valor. Simple words to you and me, but to those who live by them they have a much stronger and deeper meaning. Those words describe our nation as a whole and what our nation was built upon.

We may not always agree with politics or even society’s general demeanor. Nevertheless, we should always stand together as one with faith in God, our Nation, our Communities, and ourselves. As Ronald Regan once said, “For if we love our country, we should also love our countryman.” I, for one, will always stand and be proud of those who have served, those who currently serve, and those who have sacrificed all to protect my rights and my freedoms. To all those men and women I salute you and say “Thank You”.

In honor of those who died, we must also continue to honor the living – the survivors – who continue to sacrifice day-to-day from wounds of the battlefield. They are the soldiers who are missing limbs, who have broken bodies, those with burns, and some with severe injuries to their minds and mental state. Those are scars that never heal completely. These survivors are reminded everyday of what they have lost; we should be reminding ourselves everyday of what they gave up for us. For the price of freedom is never free, that price is indeed very costly.

As we all know, bikers stand up for those who are in need. We protect those who need protecting and we give to those who need it most. That is what we do. I have always tried my best to bring forth and shine a light on the people and the clubs who work so hard to make a difference in our communities, and this day is no different. Today I would like to highlight one example of what I consider to be a real All-American Motorcycle Club; a club that never forgets the true sacrifice of the men and women in our military.

By the patch they wear they are known as the Ruffians Motorcycle Club, a group of blue collared guys who have known each other for over 20 years. They have a strong military background. They come together from all walks of life and work toward a few simple, common goals. They ride together as a brotherhood not consisting of men only, but instead, as one of family. Their credo consists of Family, Work, Club. Their motto: Give a bullet; take a bullet for any one of these brothers. Their passion is what makes their club complete.

What is powerful and consistent about this passion is how our military fights for the cause of man, yet they return home to a world filled with darkness looking to turn gray. The Ruffians have the passion to continually support

the men and women of our beloved military through the Fisher House Foundation. What made them start working for the Fisher House was around seven or eight years ago they were on a Patriot Guard ride for a deceased soldier. Something happened that day that really struck a nerve with the club. They realized something needed to be done to help these soldiers and so they met with Inge Godfrey, the manager of the four Fisher Houses located at Brook Army Medical Center here in San Antonio. There, the Ruffians were able to meet two soldiers who were residents at the Fisher House as they were working on their recovery. The two soldiers had such a positive attitude about their recovery that the Ruffians knew in an instant that supporting of the Fisher House was the right thing to do.

The four Fisher Houses of San Antonio are just a few of the 62 Fisher Houses throughout the country that are set up to provide housing for our wounded military and their families during their therapy and recovery process. Before I wrote this article, I did not know that our own government does NOT provide housing for the injured warriors who are undergoing long term treatment, recovery, and therapy. Many of these warriors would have to be away from their families and many would have to use the last of their savings to have a roof over their heads without organizations such as the Fisher House. What many of us do not understand is how important it is to have family next to us when we need support, love and encouragement to speed the healing process. Like I said earlier, we all may not agree with political situation but as far as this Pig is concerned, the lack of support by our government is most certainly one point that just pisses me off!

The Fisher House program was started back in 1990 by Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher at the urging of Pauline Trost, wife of Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Carlisle Trost. Zachary Fisher was a builder, a philanthropist, as well a Patriot who always supported the troops. The first two Fisher Houses were completed in 1991; the first at the National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, MD and the second at The Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington DC. The Fisher Houses are run and operated through private donations and volunteers without any assistance from our government. Thank God there are people like the Ruffians who make it their honor to raise money to help keep the Fisher Houses open.

Rainman and I had the pleasure of meeting the Ruffians at the 2013 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre and, of course, at the 2014 Massacre. They were there as a food vendor

selling brisket tacos. As I got to know them better, I asked them what their mission statement was. They told me they didn’t have one. What I saw in

them – what I came to see as their mission, so to speak – was their uncommon valor in support of the military and their families.

The Ruffians accomplish this support for the Fisher House by hosting an annual fundraiser and by vending at rallies selling BBQ plates. To date, the Ruffians have raised over $118,000. For those of you interested in partaking of their annual fundraising event this year it will be held October 25 at Caliente Harley-Davidson in San Antonio. You need to come by as the Ruffians have lots of sponsors like Snap-on Tools’ J.C. Cisneros, and Matco Tools’ Leif French who always try to outdo each other in donations. That means they will have lots of great stuff for their auction, along with a kid’s auction, and raffles, as well as music, great food and a chance to meet some of the soldiers and their families from the Fisher House.

In closing I would like to say this: The American Soldier can best be described by Socrates: “He is a man of courage who does not run away, but remains at his post and fights against the enemy”. And of course Winston Churchill reminds us of what we all should do: “Never in the field of human conflict is so much owed by so many to so few”.

What will you do on Memorial Day this year? Rainman and I are going to do the same this year as last. We will rise before dawn and ride over to the cemetery at Ft. Sam Houston. There, we will silence the bike and await the rising sun to spill its light upon the flag-decorated graves of our fallen. There we will drop to one knee and pray in honor of those who gave their all for us, being our rights and our freedoms, including the right to say what needed to be said here today. After that, I think we’ll take a ride over to the Fisher House.

Ride HARD my friends or Stay Home.And Honor those who died to give you that right!

For more information on the Fisher House Program visit their website at FisherHouse.org.


You can contact Pig or Rainman by e-mail at [email protected]

FormoreofPig’swildadventures,checkouthisblogat pigspage.wordpress.com or follow him on Facebook.com/pig.meinhardt

What Will You Do This Memorial Day?

May 2014 H Page 11Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

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Nestled between Abilene and Lubbock is a small little set of nice roads, taking in some beautiful landscapes and great Texas history. We start in the small town of Snyder, home of the White Buffalo Bikefest (August 22-24, 2014).

Snyder is the Scurry County seat and as such, offers our first Points Across Texas photo opportunity, the Scurry County Courthouse. The town was named for buffalo hunter, William Henry (Pete) Snyder, who built a trading post on nearby Deep Creek in 1878. A small settlement grew up around the post as fellow hunters joined Snyder. The community’s first (unofficial) name was “Hide Town”, named for the early dwellings of the hunters that were constructed mostly of buffalo hide and tree branches.

In 1907, the town was officially named Snyder, when the Roscoe, Snyder & Pacific Railway came through the area. In 1911, the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway tracks reached Snyder, bringing more growth. In 1948, oil was discovered in the Canyon Reef area, north of town, making Snyder a boomtown, boosting population up to

16,000. By 1951, the boom ended and the population decreased, then stabilizing around 10,000. Companies looking for alternative energy sources found the area

perfect for wind energy. Today, the Roscoe Wind Farm is the second largest in the United States.

Aside from the courthouse, there are a few sites of interest around town. Starting in front of the courthouse, is the statue of the White Buffalo. They are extremely rare, with only about one out of every 10 million births…

and with the minimal numbers of buffalo in America today, that makes them almost impossible. But back in the “Old West”, there were millions of buffalo roaming the plains of Texas. When the railroads came through, hunters were sent in ahead to “clear the way” of buffalo, as the large

beasts were dangerous to train travel.

The White Buffalo are considered sacred in many American Indian cultures. When found, they were often visited for prayer and other rituals. There is one that made Snyder famous… the one shot and killed by J. Wright Mooar on October 7, 1876. He retained the hide his entire life. White Buffalo Park is located near the site of the shooting and an adjacent ranch is the current resting place of the hide (though it’s not open to the public).

Other sites of note (and to get pictures for Points Across Texas) are the old Scurry County Jail of 1912; Scurry County Museum, Roscoe; Snyder & Pacific Railroad Depot and Engine No. 5; Dermott School; Old Snyder Graveyard; and Hermleigh Calaboose.

From Snyder, take Texas Highway 208 North about 30 miles, into Clairemont.

Originally the county seat for Kent County (until 1954, when it moved to Jayton), the site was founded on land owned by R.L. Rhomberg. The town was named for Claire Becker, a relative of Rhomberg. Originally supported by cotton and cattle ranching until the 1930s/40s when the town

Lower Panhandle Loop

Scurry County Courthouse, Snyder

White Buffalo Statue, Snyder

Wind Farm, Snyder


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Snyder• Scurry County Courthouse• White Buffalo Statue• Old Scurry County Jail of 1912• Scurry County Museum• Roscoe, Snyder & Pacific Railroad Depot

and Engine No. 5 (one picture)• Dermott School\• Old Snyder Graveyard• Hermleigh Calaboose

Clairemont• Old Kent County Jail• Old Kent County Courthouse

RotanHobbs

• Old Hobbs Cemetery

Quick Rules:• Locations/itemsmustbeeasilyidentifiableinthephoto.• YourAND/ORyourbikemustbeinthepicture.• EitheracurrentissueofThunderRoadsTexasORaprintoutofthe2014PointsAcrossTexaslogo/patchmustbevisibleinthephoto.• Photos must be emailed to [email protected] can be posted on our Points Across Texas Facebook page (Facebook.com/

PointsAcrossTexas).• Deadlinefor2014photosisJanuary15,2015.

Points Across Texas Qualified Destination List - April 2014 Ride Map

experienced a small-scale oil boom. Today, with only 15 recorded residents, the small town is considered a ghost town.

However, for a ghost town, the historical sites are still there to see! There is the old Kent County Jail (circa 1895) still standing. The jail was built of red sandstone from nearby Treasure Butte. At the time, it was state-of-the-art for the time, with a single mechanism that allowed the jailor to lock or unlock all four cells at once. As “modern” as it was, there were still no indoor toilets, with the prisoners having to be

escorted to an outhouse. The jail was long known for being virtually escape proof, with local lore claiming only one escape.

Across the street is the old Kent Courthouse. Originally built of the same sandstone as the jail, the building had two stories until the mid-1950s, when a fire heavily damaged the old courthouse. The second story was removed and the first story restored for use as a community center.

Out of Clairemont, take Highway 380 East to Highway 70 South into Rotan.

The small town began as White Flat, named for the white gypsum sand that lies near the surface. It held its own until 1906, when the Texas Central Railroad made the town its terminus. When they went to establish a post office, the name was already taken. The new name was in honor or Ed Rotan, a major stockholder in the railroad. The town grew around mining the gypsum that was abundant in the area. However, the town never was able to fully recover from the depression. With a less than 2,000 residents, the small town is barely staying away from the Ghost Town title.

Leaving Rotan, head out on FM 611 South. After a couple 90 degree turns, you come into Hobbs.

Named for Vachel Hobbs Anderson, a local settler, the small settlement was formed in the mid-1880s. Never really seeing huge growth potential, the town is effectively a ghost town. To see, however, is the old Hobbs Cemetery. The first internment was in 1906. While the town basically moved north of the original site, the cemetery is still

used and serves as a reminder of the community’s early history.

Leaving Hobbs, continue on FM 611 South. Turn right on Highway 180 West, back into Snyder.

Old Kent Jail, Clairemont

Old Kent County Courthouse, Clairemont


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...continuedLower Panhandle Loop



This month, we simply asked for photos of interesting bathrooms. No need for discussion or listing… here are the photos we received.

A note about some of the blurriness of a couple of these photos... hey... they were probably drinking, relieving, and trying to hold a camera phone!

We Asked - You Recommended!

Top to Bottom, Left to Right....

• The Hitching Post in Angleton, Mike Boone• Bimbos in Houston, Bob Cooney• Medina Highpoint Resort (formerly Koyote Ranch) in Medina,

David Mayfield• The Spot in Galveston, David Mayfield• Twin Peaks in League City, Mike Boone• Mansfield Park in Medina @ Thunder in the Hill Country, Tim

Morris




Hello Piglets,Thanks for tuning in today for this extra edition of Pig Writes. I’m here once again with my chest puffed up with pride. I’m proud because of one thing and one thing only; the American dream is STILL alive. It’s the passion in people who are proud of who they are and what they stand for. It’s people with the ability to work hard and make their dreams come true. With that said, I would like to welcome you to Quick Performance Cycles, a new motorcycle repair shop that has opened up here on the northeast side of San Antonio.

What makes Quick Performance Cycles so special you ask? It would have to be the man and his family behind it and the dreams they are making come true. Quick, originally from Houston, grew up in a family that was definitely part of the biker community. He began racing dirt bikes at a young age, and began pushing his limits to see how fast he could go. Some could say that Quick had the need for speed in his blood, and he knew just how to

achieve it. His other passion, the dream of owning his own motorcycle repair shop, would have to wait many years before finding the momentum to be fulfilled. But he never lost that passion. Quick, along with wife Layla and son Dustin, a certified Harley Technician, now strives for his newly opened shop to have the professionalism of a dealer shop with the personal touch of a private shop.

Quick Performance Cycles is a full service motorcycle repair shop for American V-Twins and imports, that offers much more than oil changes and new tires. They also offer motorcycle recovery service. If your bike ever breaks down, they can come out and pick you up from the side of the road. If you need a state inspection they are ready for that too. Located on the same property as the shop, they also have a separate 4,800 square foot facility for custom body and paint. The “paint shop” is operated by Quick’s other son, Brandon, and his co-worker Jeunus, who together have over 20 years of experience in restoration and paint. I’ll tell you this, if you ever have a dream bike

you want to create, they also build custom bikes. And man do they ever build some really cool bikes. You need to make time to stop on by and see for yourself what makes Quick’s place so special. It is a family who has the ability to work together and make their dreams come true by standing behind quality work and offering personal, professional service in a shop where you feel like you belong. Motorcycles, it’s not just what they do…it’s their passion. I’m Pig Meinhardt and I approve of “Quick Performance Cycles” so they get the Pig Stamp of Approval.

A Man and His Dreams

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

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Lone Star 92.5 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. ProudlysponsoredbyThunderRoadsTexas!BBT XI - The Texas X Riders Bluebonnet Thunder Rally TexasXRiders.com Bandera Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio

Hill Country Run Motorcycle Rally HillCountryRun.com Fredericksburg Region: Hill Country Metro: San AntonioAnnual fundraiser for the Fredericksburg Optimist Club. The fun starts Friday social in Fredericksburg; Saturday includes helicopter rides, live music, stunt riders, Hill Country rides, bike games, bike show, Cowboy Breakfasts; Ending with Sunday services provided by the CMA. Registration is open NOW. Register online now… $50/per person includes: entry all four days, social “kick-off” on Friday, Cowboy Breakfast Saturday & Sunday, Hill Country rides; bike games, and bike show. SponsoredbyThunderRoadsTexas!Steel Horse Sisterhood Summit SteelHorseSisterhood.com Greenwood Village, COA 3-day event specifically designed to broaden the skills, knowledge and experiences of women motorcycle riders. Speakers, rides, education, and best of all – sisterhood bonding! Proceeds benefit Helping with HorsePower, Grace After Fire, and Ride For Kids. Weekend pass $125; partner price $50. Texas… we have a CHALLENGE!!! We have been dared to bring the MOST female riders to the conference! The best represented state will receive a special commemorative patch and certificate.

Thunder on the Caprock Rally RollingThunderBarandGrill.com Fluvanna Region: Panhandle Metro: LubbockHosted by Rolling Thunder Bar & Grill in the beautiful Panhandle of Texas! Live bands all weekend, free camping, vendor village, bike games, poker run, bike show, karaoke, and so much more fun! Admission is ONLY $15/person!

Bike Rally and Poker Run 903.279.9812 Kilgore Region: Piney Woods Metro: Tyler/Longview

Bikes & Bugs VI Main Event BikeAndBugs.org Richmond Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonBikes & Bugs is BACK! Join Los Guys MC for the MAIN EVENT at Old Trading Post (9903 FM 2379, Richmond, 77469). Live music, 5,000 pounds of crawfish, bikini bike wash (12-6pm), Outlaw Dave emceeing and broadcasting LIVE. Drawing in the raffle of a Big Dog Ridgeback Chopper at 8pm, with other prizes offered all day long. Sponsored byThunderRoadsTexas!International Female Ride Day Facebook.com/InternationalFemaleRideDay InternationalTexas Honor Ride Fun Run TexasHonorRide.Org Texas City Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonLive music, vendors, military displays at starting & stopping point. Self-paced ride with prizes for best hands. Plus 50/50 drawing and drawings for other great prizes. Registration begins at 8am; $20/rider; $5/passenger; $5/additional hand. Lunch provided for ride participants. Hosted by Memorial Lutheran Church (2021 29th Street, Texas City 77590). SponsoredbyThunderRoadsTexas!3rd Annual FWVRA Poker Run FWVRA.com Kennedale Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Forth Worth

Cinco de Mayo Run Fun Run 361.229.2378 Palacios Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Custom and Classic Car, Truck, and Bike Show 214.778.9545 Wylie Region: West Texas Metro: Abilene

Cut N Shoot HOG 25th Anniversary Celebration Facebook.com/events/601983323218171 Kingwood Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Friends Helping Bikers Rider Benefit Facebook.com/events/627420870640510 Bryan Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station

Heritage Days Motorcycle Fun Run VisitBohnam.com Bohnam Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Sherman/Denison

Peace Keepers Bike Show PeaceKeeperslemcntx.com Mesquite Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Rally to the Son - Motorcycle and Music Festival Facebook.com/Events/1419027521673178/ El Paso Region: Big Bend Metro: El Paso

Ride for the Fallen Cleat.org/RFTF Round Rock Region: Hill Country Metro: Austin

The Way MM BBQ Cook-Off & Plate Sale San Antonio Region: South Texas Metro: San Antonio

Biker Friendly Bluz Rock Facebook.com/pages/WILD-RABBIT-SALAD/257125285528 Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonJoin the band and their biker friends 2-6PM every Sunday at the Boat at Concert Pub North (2470 FM 1960 Rd West, Houston, TX 77068; 281.583.8111). Plenty of parking, great food, indoor outdoor seating, best Bluz and rock n roll in Texas.

Ride Around Texas Endurance Ride MCTourer.com/Rides/2014/RAT/index.html Childress Region: Panhandle Metro: Childress

Lone Star 92.5 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. ProudlysponsoredbyThunderRoadsTexas!Texas Motorcycle Safety Forum LookLearnLive.org Bryan Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station

National Coalition of Motorcyclists Convention OnABike.com Dallas Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth


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Vets & Hawgs Rally 2014 ALR393.com Cleveland Region: Piney Woods Metro: Houston

Myrtle Beach Bike Week Spring Rally MyrtleBeachBikeWeek.com Myrtle Beach, SC

Texas Fallen Heroes Memorial Ride TexasFallenHeroesRide.com Cypress/Crosby Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonRide starts at the Cypress VFD Station 11 (18136 West Rd, Cypress 77433; 281.304.4531) and ends at Rowdy Bucks Saloon in Crosby. Registration begins at 10am; KSU 10:30am, after wreath laying. $25/single; $35/double pre-registration online (+$10 at door). Breakfast & lunch included. First 100 riders receive ride pin. Bike show & games by Blowout Biker Productions. Call 832.647.6770 or visit website for more information. Sponsored byThunderRoadsTexas!Bikers Against Breast Cancer Facebook.com/#!/events/602691543102646 Pasadena Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Hunting for Bucks Poker Run 214.629.7231, 817.991.0099 Dallas Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Mothers Day Womens Ride DallasHD.com Garland Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Ride for Relief RideforRelief.webs.com McKinney Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/ Fort Worth

Biker Friendly Bluz Rock Facebook.com/pages/WILD-RABBIT-SALAD/257125285528 Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonJoin the band and their biker friends 2-6PM every Sunday at the Boat at Concert Pub North (2470 FM 1960 Rd West, Houston, TX 77068; 281.583.8111). Plenty of parking, great food, indoor outdoor seating, best Bluz and rock n roll in Texas.

Run For The Wall XXVI RFTW.org Nationwide“We ride for those who can’t; dedicated to Prisoners of War and Missing in Action. Cross-country ride with multipel starts. Start with them on the West Coast, join them along the way, or just visit one of their stops and show support. Everyone winds up in Washington, DC for the Rolling Thunder XXVII rally (May 25).

Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT ThunderRoadsTexas.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonOne Night – THREE Parties! Our monthly (third Thursday) biker party with a few hundred of our closest friends! Co-hosted by the Outlaw Dave Show. Live music with no cover or drink minimum, drink specials (big ass beer night!), vendors, stage games, door prizes, and MORE! Reserved motorcycle-only parking.. Rain or shine… the BEST and longest continually held bike night in Houston!

NORTH: Shifters Saloon (5001 Treaschwig Rd, Spring 77373). Steve & his crew throw a mean party!

SOUTH: Jackie’s Brickhouse (1053 Marina Bay Dr/FM 2094, Kemah 77565; just west of Highway 146). Always a party – hosted by Blowout and his team!

CENTRAL: Outlaw Dave’s Worldwide Headquarters (6502 Washington Ave, Houston 77007, behind I-Hop). Outlaw Dave broadcasting LIVE! Cages, please park behind I-Hop.

Lone Star 92.5 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. ProudlysponsoredbyThunderRoadsTexas!Hoagy’s Heroes Lone Star Six Shooter Endurance Run HoagysHeroes.org Dallas Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Rally in the Crater - Spring RallyintheCrater.com Mount Enterprise Region: Piney Woods Metro: Longview

Tellico Biker Rally TellicoBikerRally.com Tellico Plains Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Texas State HOG Rally TXStateHOGRally.com Abilene Region: Panhandle Metro: Abilene

The Aspen Cash Rally MotorcycleRally.com Ruidoso, NM

Fight Like a Girl One Night Stand WeFightLikeAGirl.org Point Blank Region: Piney Woods Metro: Houston

30th Annual BMOA Rallye in Lake Sommerville BMOAOnline.com Brenham Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station

Armed Forces Freedom Ride EastTexasFreedomRide.org Brookeland Region: Piney Woods Metro: BeaumontSupporting our Armed Forces of all service branches, including veterans, POW/MIA, Wounded Warriors and Disabled American Veterans.. Ride starts at the Black Sheep Saloon (15590 Hwy 96 North, Brookeland 75931). Registration begins at 9am. Classic car and motorcycle contests. Live music, door prizes, raffles, vendors and a gun raffle begin at 2pm. SponsoredbyThunderRoadsTexas!

3rd Annual Cars for Heros Car/Truck/Bike Show CarsForHeroes.Webs.com Westminster Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

3rd Annual Wounded Warrior Fundraiser PartioticDefenders.org San Antonio Region: Hill Country Metro: San AntonioHosted by Lefty’s Draft House (15179 Judson Rd, San Antonio, 78247). Support your local wounded warriors and heroes. 12-6pm; Honor Guard and National Anthem at Noon.. $5 Pre-sale at Lefty’s or $8 at the gate; kids under 12 free; Live bands, silent auction, vendors, door prizes. Proceeds provide outdoor trips for wounded warrios and heroes.

BACA 100 Mile Benefit Ride Facebook.com/events/655638177836500 Damon Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Bikers Fun Run ConnectLifeChurch.com Waxahachie Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Crossroads Car and Bike Show 254.338.7932 Belton Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Killeen/Temple

CVA Chapter 23-11 Spring Fundraiser 903.495.3818 Paris Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Jericho Ride Jerichoride.Org Various Cities See website for city closest to you or to create your own.

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Leightons Ride benefiting Texas Health Resources NICU LeightonsGift.com Celina Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Wharton Co. Freedom Fest WhartonFreedomFest.org Wharton Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Biker Friendly Bluz Rock Facebook.com/pages/WILD-RABBIT-SALAD/257125285528 Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonJoin the band and their biker friends 2-6PM every Sunday at the Boat at Concert Pub North (2470 FM 1960 Rd West, Houston, TX 77068; 281.583.8111) Plenty of parking, great food, indoor outdoor seating, best Bluz and rock n roll in Texas.

National Armed Forces Freedom Ride Houston Facebook.com/events/732234036810481 The Woodlands Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Lone Star 92.5 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. ProudlysponsoredbyThunderRoadsTexas!Cruisin for St. Jude Talimina Run YammerHammer09.Wix.com/Cruisin-for-St-Jude Hooks Region: Piney Woods Metro: Texarkana

Red River Memorial Day Motorcycle Rally RedRiverMemorialDayMotorcycleRally.com Red River, NM

Harley’s for Hope St. Jude’s Benefit [email protected] Jefferson Region: Piney Woods Metro: Longview

Iron Horse MC Mesquite Bean Rally SupportIronHorse.com Brady Region: Hill Country Metro: San Angelo

Talimena Run Rally “Cruisin for St. Jude” Facebook.com/groups/569646296413955/#!/groups/569646296413955/ Texarkana Region: Piney Woods Metro: Texarkana

NE Texas Bikers Church 4th Annual Rally NETXBC.com Mt Pleasant Region: Piney Woods Metro: LongviewFun for the whole family. Bike Run, Bike Games, Bike show, Vendors, Live Music, Bounce houses, water slide, food, auction. Free entry. Sign up for Bike run starts at 8am; First bike out at 10am; $25 per rider, $45 with passenger, pay out for high and low hands. Bike games free, Bike show $10 per entry. 749 E. 16th St. Mount Pleasant Texas 75455. For more info call 903-563-0948 or go to our web site.

Rolling Thunder XXVI RollingThunderRun.com Washington, DCBiker Friendly Bluz Rock Facebook.com/pages/WILD-RABBIT-SALAD/257125285528 Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonJoin the band and their biker friends 2-6PM every Sunday at the Boat at Concert Pub North (2470 FM 1960 Rd West, Houston, TX 77068; 281.583.8111) Plenty of parking, great food, indoor outdoor seating, best Bluz and rock n roll in Texas.

8th Annual Freedom Run CenTexPGR.org Killeen Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Killeen/Temple

Lone Star 92.5 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. ProudlysponsoredbyThunderRoadsTexas!Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association Stand Down Fundraiser CombatVet.org Fort Worth Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Arkansas State HOG Rally ARStateHOGRally.com Hot Spring, AR

3rd Annual Route 49 Biker Rally Route49Rally.com Jefferson Region: Piney Woods Metro: Longview

Bugs and Blues Rally EastTexasMotorcycleEnthusiasts.com Chireno Region: Piney Woods Metro: Nacogdoches

Gatesville Biker Bash VHMI.org Gatesville Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Killeen/Temple

Republic of Texas (ROT) Biker Rally ROTRally.com Austin Region: Hill Country Metro: AustinOne of the largest and best known rallies in the state! Visit Austin and the Travis County Expo Center for loads of fun; live music in various venues; parade from the rally to the Capitol, down 6th Street; and so much more! Preregistration and RV reservations open now. See our Cover Story this month!

Massacre in Badsville Facebook.com/events/283067145185394 Huffman Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Wolfe City Country Cruise [email protected] Wolfe City Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort WorthRegister at Downtown Main Street in Wolfe City for a very well organized and beautiful ride around the countryside. $20/bike; First bike out 10am. All participating riders receive free chili and live entertainment. Awards given for oldest bike ridden, oldest rider, best modified, best bike, and best classic. For more information, visit their Facebook page; call Tony @ 903.496.2331; or email [email protected]. SponsoredbyThunderRoadsTexas!Back the Badge Ride Facebook.com/Events/1427746047470190 Pasadena Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Laconia Motorcycle Week LaconiaMCWeek.com Laconia, NH

Ride Your Motorcycle to Work Day RideToWork.org International

Allied Memorial Remembrance Ride AMRR.org Terrell Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort WorthOne ride, three nations; united in remembrance of our fallen heroes. Two rides with three starting points. For details and registration, visit their website. All rides end at the No. 1 British Flying Training School (BTFS) Museum at Terrell Texas. Riders will have time to visit the museum and ask question of volunteers before climbing on their steel steeds in a procession to the Oakland Cemetery nearby for a memorial service, including a flyover. SponsoredbyThunderRoadsTexas!

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August 4-10 70th Annual Sturgis Bike Week Sturgis.com Sturgis, SD

August 29-September 1 Four Corners Motorcycle Rally (Previously Ignacio Bike Week) IgnacioBikeWeek.com Ignacio, CO

September 11-14 The Texas Rally Luau Biker Bash TheTexasRally.com Lake Somerville Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College StationHeld at Big Creek Park & Marina on beautiful Lake Somerville (out of Lyons). Always a huge party and always with a Damon Dave surprise! FREE Luau meal on Saturday (while it lasts), Tiki Lounge, Moment of Silence for 9/11, live bands, bike show & games, bike & campsite decorating contests, and so much more! SponsoredbyThunderRoadsTexas!September 17-21 The Golden Aspen Rally MotorcycleRally.com Ruidoso, NM

September 24-27 Bikes, Blues & BBQ BikesBluesandBBQ.org Fayetteville, AR

September 25-28 Rally in the Crater - Fall RallyintheCrater.com Mount Enterprise, TX Region: Piney Woods Metro: Longview

October 10-12 Corpus Christi BikeFest (formerly SPI BikeFest)’ CCBikeFest.com Corpus Christi Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Corpus Christi

Octobe 16-19 Biketoberfest Biketoberfest.com Daytona, FL

November 6-9 Lone Star Camp Ground Biker Bash LoneStarCampground.com Hitchcock Region: Gulf Coast Metro: HoustonIt’s a huge party campground for visitors to the Lone Star Rally. Galveston Island no longer allows camper parking along the seawall and the island has very few other options for camping. Blowout Productions provides a full-blown campsite, complete with live music, vendors, contests, and after-hours partying (21+ only)… all for only SponsoredbyThunderRoadsTexas!

November 6-9 Lone Star Rally LoneStarRally.com Galveston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

AboutOurEventListing:Basic Event listings are FREE. Premium Event Listings (bold and up to 75 word description) are only $15/event. Send your event to: [email protected].

Thunder Roads Texas does not guarantee the accuracy of the information provided and cannot be held liable. Things change, there may be typos, and weather happens. So before you climb on your steed and ride to one of these events, contact the organizers and verify the latest information.

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CONTACT US TODAY!ThunderRoadsTexas.com

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Republic of Texas (ROT) Biker Rally in Austin, Texas is the biggest motorcycle rally in Texas and one of the largest

events of its type in the country. Motorcycle enthusiasts flock to Central Texas to enjoy amazing motorcycles, Austin nightlife, beautiful Texas Hill Country rides, and the camaraderie of fellow Rally goers. This year’s dates are June 12-15, 2014 at the Travis County Expo Center located approximately 11 miles east of downtown Austin, Texas.

The ROT Biker Rally has been celebrating motorcycles and making great memories for 19 years now—with no hint of slowing down. ROT Rally attributes this to the continued support of the local community, sponsors, vendors, advertisers and a host of other entities who assist in helping the Rally flourish. Most importantly, it’s the Rally’s faithful attendees who are the heart and soul of the event. Some Rally-goers say it’s a weekend that brings out their “inner biker” like nothing else. Others say they love the Rally because it brings together a community of

kindred spirits. No matter what the experience, it remains a highly-anticipated and well-attended event.

Helping live up to Austin’s self-proclaimed “Music Capital of the World” title, the ROT Biker Rally strives to grace its stages with top-notch entertainment year after year and 2014 is no exception. The Main Stage amphitheater and the Paradise Bar stage bring amazing local and nationally-acclaimed acts to Rally goers all weekend long. The 2014 lineup includes Cody Canada & the Departed, Black Star Riders–The New Thin Lizzy, Dale Watson, The Black Moods, Stone Soup, Reverend Horton Heat, Chop Tops, Warner Drive, Vayden, Messer, Omar & the Howlers, John Gaar, Matt Begley & Bitter Whiskey, Heaven Below and Sammy Hagar—the Saturday headliner.

“We’re excited to have such an American musical legend as Sammy Hagar gracing our stage this year. Sammy’s energy and talent is unparalleled and his style of rock appeals to many different age groups,” says promoter

Jerry Bragg of Austin, Texas. “It will definitely be a fun and memorable show and one you won’t want to miss.”

Four-day wristbands not only include access to all music on all stages but also to a plethora of attractions and contests. The 2014 Rally action includes Ride In Bike Show, custom bike builders, after hours parties with comedian Steve Trevino, bikini contests, Zach and Arlen Ness, Military Bike Giveaway with motorcycle built by Zach Ness, Doug Danger, Lathan McKay’s Evel Knievel Collection, Mexico’s Motorcycle Acrobats, Budweiser Brewery Bus, Classic Bike Show, official ride destinations, pre-parties, bike nights and more.

In addition to the amazing music and action located at the Expo center, the city of Austin joins in the spirit by closing off 50 downtown blocks for an enormous motorcycle parade—this year held on Friday, June 13th. The parade staging begins at the Expo Center and is led by Austin Police Department on an 11-mile route to


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Congress Avenue. The ROT Biker Rally Parade draws approximately 200,000 spectators who gather to greet the riders and afterwards stay for live music, food and vendors. The Guinness Book of World Records certified the ROT Rally Biker Parade as the "Longest Parade of Motorcycles." It is something to see!

It’s going be a banner year for the Rally so “high tail” it to Austin and join us for a great weekend in June! The Rally adds attractions and events weekly to its lineup so stay tuned to www.rotrally.com, Facebook and Twitter for late-breaking ROT Biker Rally news. In addition, the Rally will be making an announcement in May about an exciting new downtown venue.

Purchase 4-day wristbands at www.rotrally.com and when purchased before May 17, 2014 orders include a free official Rally T-shirt. The ROT Rally is an all-weather event and is held, rain or shine. Attendees must be 18 years old or up.


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By Randy McCamey, Associate Editor


I’ve yet to meet a real biker who needed a reason to ride; it’s just what we do. To us, riding is like breathing. On the other hand, most of us look for reasons to ride and we are active participants in charity rides and benefit rallies. While some of us like the structure and schedule of the traditional bike rally, some of us also like the flexibility

of riding on our own terms and our own schedule. The Tour of Honor (ToH) falls in the latter category and is best described as a “photo scavenger hunt”. Being a self-directed ride, the ToH is very similar in nature to our own Points Across Texas program. In fact, what could be better than to combine both programs on the same ride!

As described on their website (TourOfHonor.com), “The [ToH] is a season-long, self-directed ride to memorials and monuments around the continental U.S., Alaska and Hawaii.” ToH sponsors in each participating state (which is almost every state in the Lower 48) have identified seven markers or memorials in each state for the 2014 riding season. The instructions

are simple, between April 1 and October 31, riders visit as many sites as they want, by any route they choose, and take a picture that includes the memorial, their motorcycle, and their individually numbered rally flag. Riders (and passengers) can earn pens and certificates for visiting seven or more memorials during the rally period.

Riders must register for the ToH and registration includes a patch, tee-shirt, and a decal. The cost is $75, but don’t be put off by the price as, for 2014, a portion of the funds go to the Fisher House Foundation, Operation Comfort Warriors, and Police and Fire: The Fallen Heroes. Proceeds from last year’s ToH were donated to the Wounded Warrior Project.

I will be chronicling my ride this year for a feature article in the fall but I’ll keep you updated on my adventures with thoughts and pictures on the Thunder Roads Texas Facebook page. “Like Us” to keep up with all the important Texas biker events and activities. We love reader submissions for the magazine, too, so keep sending us those pictures and don’t be afraid to send in your own interesting ride or rally experience!

It’s hard to say it any clearer than what the Tour of Honor says themselves, “Ride Far. Ride Safe. Ride to Remember”. I hope to see you on the back roads as we “ride for a reason this riding season”.

You, Your Motorcycle, and a Great Reason to RideThe 2014 Tour of Honor


time had come for the girl’s spring overnight ride. On May 10, 2013, we decided to go to the Medina area as the wildflowers were

reported to be magnificent and the roads of the area are etched in motorcycle legend. After a stop at the very nice Sisterdale Winery, we settled in at the Koyote Ranch, a haven for bikers with toy haulers and facilities for those who preferred cabin dwelling. Six women piled into the cabin with one bathroom and three beds. But we had all travelled together many times so there was no discomfort of close quarters with these gals.

The next morning dawned cool and damp, but we bundled up and took off for Medina. Rumbling past the famed Apple Store, we stopped for a great breakfast. Picture this – at the local diner, in walk six women in full motorcycle regalia, the youngest being in her mid-thirties and the oldest pushing sixty. We were used to getting attention as it is not often you see six-to-ten lady riders together with no men. NO MEN! A couple of fellows started flirting with us – women old enough to be their mothers. Taking it in stride, and as a compliment, we laughed and joked with them. Another motorcycle pulled in to the diner and an older man came in. We could see out the window it was a vintage BMW, not your average motorbike in the hills of Texas.

He sat quietly for a while, but when we spoke to him, he opened up wide saying he had heard a group of lady bikers was in town. He told us funny war stories and about his bike. He asked what our plans were. Well into his sixties,

he drank coffee and related to us like old friends. One question he posed was if we get a lot of attention. The answer to that was “yes”.

Over the years, many interesting things have happened to our group, the least of which is not my major accident which totaled my bike and broke my pelvis in four places. I described to the man one incident which occurred in Goldthwaite a few summers back. We stopped at a convenience store for a drink and to retreat from the hot sun. Not wishing to leave the bikes unattended, we hovered around them, resting in the shade of a tree. A man walking from his car toward the store noticed us and came forward. He fell to his knees on the concrete, held his arms out wide and said, “Ladies! I’ve dreamed of this moment!”

That’s kind of what it is all about. See and be seen. At our ages we no longer turn heads, care for high heels, or display copious amounts of skin. Instead, the attraction is our splendid inner selves shining along with the chrome and sparkle of our motorcycles. We shined and sparkled our way through Medina several times that day. Ok, we

took a wrong turn a time or two and rode past the Apple Store at Love Creek Orchards five times! We stopped once for a fantastic burger and the legendary apple ice cream. But everything worked out great. We were together, doing it, and being ourselves.

Elaine Smith is an avid writer with a volume of her escapades in small-town America captured in the book, Ridin’ Around: Taillights in Chrome, 8-Tracks on Wheels. She also has a thriller entitled One Wrong Move – Can Kill. Unfortunately, Elaine was recovering from her major accident when the group of ladies she rides with was featured in the Women Who Ride Web-zine article in November, 2010. You can get copies of Elaine’s books a BlazingStarBooks.com.

By Elaine Smith, Reader Submission



By day, she is the Director of the Johnson County Juvenile Services in Johnson County. As Director, Lisa Tomlinson

oversees a staff that runs a program designed to work with youth in the county who are referred for criminal offenses. Lisa’s department works with the youth and their families to equip them with skills to make positive choices in their lives for their families and their communities. Lisa is certainly in a noble and worthwhile profession.

Off the clock, Lisa is a biker. She rides a black 2013 Switchback named Daisy, with just the right amount of bling! Like many of us, Lisa’s first attempts at riding were at a young age. “I rode dirt bikes and street bikes as a child around town and in vacant lots. In those days you could do that. Actually, I would sneak my brother’s bike to ride without him knowing it. That lasted a while until I had a little

wreck. After that, the cat was out of the bag. I didn’t ride again until about three years ago.”

And again, like many us of, life got in the way of riding for a while. Lisa started to work in 1988 and she has worked in the same field ever since. She married David, the love of her life, also in 1988, and together they raised their family. A few years ago that old spark rose again. “When David bought his motorcycle, we began riding together. I had not thought about riding in, like, forever, and never thought I would ride as an adult! When I sat behind him

all I saw was the back of his head. Bikers know what kind of a nightmare it can be to have the passenger lean over to see what’s in front, so one day he asked me if I would ever want to ride my own. I went and took the rider safety course and I was ready!”

Learning to ride a full-sized bike as an adult has its own challenges. Lisa said, “When I first got my new bike, I was so nervous. I was actually scared to turn it, afraid it would fall over. Well, it did – the first day I had it. All the nervousness is out of my system now, even though it took a while, but I am much more comfortable…and turning is much better!”

Lisa and David ride several thousand miles each year in the north Texas area. “I’m good for about 100 to 150 miles right now. I am not quite ready for a real long-distance ride just yet. I love short trips over to Glen Rose or to downtown Ft. Worth or just back road riding in Johnson County or around Lake Texoma.” Every road is her favorite road as she says, “Since I have not been on too many “name brand” roads or rides yet, I would have to say that anytime I can ride is my favorite right now. Sometimes when I am in my car I can visualize riding my bike instead. When I see others riding, I really want to be on mine bike!”

Lisa also makes her share of rides and rallies. “We like to go to Bikes, Blues, and BBQ in Arkansas. We have also been to the Lone Star Rally. I really like to ride in the Toy Runs at Christmas time. I like the purpose and I like all

the bikes. I have also done a couple of fundraisers for injured or sick firefighters.”

Beyond riding in the north Texas area, Lisa has been on one ride that most of us just dream of, Alaska! “That was probably the most unique ride of my life. David and I were on an Alaskan Cruise. We stopped at one of the destinations and, of course, had to find all the Harley shops. While there, we asked about renting a bike and were told they did not but a local guy down the street did. So, we went down the street and David bartered our rental with some lights he sells and we rode around Skagway for a couple of hours!” That kind of story always makes me want to get on the bike and ride!

I asked Lisa what people say when they find out she’s a biker. She said, “I just don’t think people expect to see a female rider. People ask me things like, wow, you ride? What kind of bike do you have? A Harley…really? You mean you drive it all by yourself? Do you wear all that leather and stuff?” When asked what it is like to be part of a very male dominated sport, Lisa says, “Unique. I think of things all the time that we women riders might like since you find things for men and their bikes all the time. I guess I don’t think of it of being male dominated. I just think of the enjoyment I have getting to ride. I am glad I ride.”

Texas Rider Profile: Lisa TomlinsonBy Randy McCamey, Associate Editor


Like all interviews I do, I asked the Lisa the ultimate biker question, “Why do you ride motorcycles?” Lisa tells me, “It started out as something that my husband David and I could do together, but when I got off the back of his and onto my own, I discovered that it is pure enjoyment. The smells, the scenery, the air in your face, and let’s not forget the power underneath you. That is awesome!” I couldn’t have said it better myself. She continued, “The kids are on their own now and David and I are looking forward the next phase in life – to plan what fun we will have together. Of course, the bikes will be included in all those plans!”

Lisa Tomlinson, a true Texas biker.


An officer was on a detached mission and was held up by a storm and flood. He wired his commander: “Delayed by storm send instructions.”

His Old Man wired back: “Commence vacations immediately.”

An admiral reprimanded a young sailor who failed to salute him somewhere in the street.

“Why don’t you salute me, sailor?” he asked severely. “You know I’m an admiral.”

“An admiral?” exclaimed the sailor in unfeigned surprise. “And I thought admirals never walk on land.”

A retired corporal was telling a friend how he handled officers during his service years. “It didn’t matter if he was a general, an admiral, or the Commander-in-Chief. I told those guys exactly where to get off.

“Wow,” his friend said. “What was your job in the service?”

“Elevator operator in the Pentagon.”

A young man agreed to baby-sit one night so a single mother could have an evening out. At bedtime he sent the youngsters upstairs to bed and settled down to watch football.

One child kept creeping down the stairs, but the young man kept sending him back to bed.

At 9pm the doorbell rang, it was the next-door neighbor, Mrs. Brown, asking whether her son was there. The young man brusquely replied, “No.”

Just then a little head appeared over the banister and shouted, “I’m here, Mom, but he won’t let me go home!”

A police recruit was asked during the exam, “What would you do if you had to arrest your own mother?”

He answered, “Call for backup.”

The mother says to her daughter, “Did you enjoy your first day at school?”

The daughter answers, “First day? Do you mean I have to go back again tomorrow?”

The newlywed wife said to her husband when he returned from work, “I have great news for you. Pretty soon, we’re going to be three in this house instead of two.”

Her husband ran to her with a smile on his face and delight in his eyes.

He was glowing of happiness and kissing his wife when she said, “I’m glad that you feel this way since tomorrow morning, my mother moves in with us.”

As the family gathered for a big dinner together, the youngest son announced that he had just signed up at an army recruiter’s office.

There were audible gasps around the table, then some laughter, as his older brothers shared their disbelief that he could handle this new situation.

“Oh, come on, quit joking,” snickered one. “You didn’t really do that, did you?”

“You would never get through basic training,” scoffed another.

The new recruit looked to his mother for help, but she was just gazing at him. When she finally spoke, she simply asked, “Do you really plan to make your own bed every morning?”

A SPECIAL HOLLER TO ALL THE MOTHERS OUT THERE AND A

SINCERE THANKS TO ALL THE MILITARY AND THEIR FAMILIES.




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

BandsWild Rabbit Salad Great Party Band! Houston Contact Bucky Goldberg Facebook.com/buckygoldberg Reverbnation.com/wildrabbitsalad

Bars & Restaurants*Garrett Road Ice House 14303 Garrett Rd Houston, TX 77077 281.456.0440 Facebook.com/pages/Garrett-Road-Ice-House/268480946517754 Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* 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

* 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

* Sisterdale Saloon 1211 Sisterdale Hwy Sisterdale, TX 78006 830.324.6767 Facebook.com/Sisterdale.Roadhouse Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio

* 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

Biker ChurchesNortheast Texas Bikers Church 749 E 16th Street Mt Pleasant, TX 75455 903.563.0948 NETXBC.com Region: Piney Woods Closest Metro: Longview Church service on Thursdays @ 7pm Bible study on Sundays @ 5pm

Dealerships & Shops* Bill Allen Motorcycle Company 3607 S College Ave Bryan, TX 77801 979.822.4294 Facebook.com/BillAllen.Motorcycles

* 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

* Gulf Coast Trikes 1907 Lawrence Rd, Ste 200 Kemah, Texas 77565 832.864.2085 GulfCoastTrikes.com Hours: Tues-Fri 9am-6pm Sat 9am-3pm* Harley-Davidson of Waco 4201 S Jack Kultgen Expy Waco, TX 76711 254-753-0393 www.hdwaco.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Waco

* 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

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

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


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.comtofindafulllistingofdistributionpoints.TellthemyousawtheminThunderRoadTexas!Wanttobeonthislist-it’sonly$149/YEAR;$125forchurches,bands,MCclubs/groups,andVFW/ALRHalls-visitourwebsiteoremail [email protected] for information.


* 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 510, #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

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

* Freeway Insurance 642 W Rhapsody, Ste A San Antonio, TX 78216 210.403.2216 www.FreewayInsurance.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

Lodging & CampgroundsDUBL-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

*Scoot On Inn Cabins & Camping, LLC 4397 South Highway 83 Leakey, TX 78873 830.232.4442 Office/Home 512.517.5349 Cell-Tim 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* Coppersage Biker Gear 1002 Goodson Road Magnolia, TX 77355 281.730.1835 Region: Piney Woods 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

* Pit Stop Biker Gear 13028 State Highway 21 West Austonio, TX 75835936-661-7518www.pitstopbikergear.com

Miscellaneous* American Legion Post 402 11457 US Highway 190 West Livingston, TX 77351 936.646.7411

Oklahoma Backroads [email protected] 405.996.0411 888.785.8733 [email protected] Outlaw Dave Productions PO Box 25028 Houston, TX 77265 www.OutlawNation.us Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston


... continuedBiker Friendly

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Thunder Roads Texas - May 2014