Thunder Roads Virginia Magazine - September 2011

1920 Centerville Turnpike, Suite 117-270 Virginia Beach, VA 23464

Office phone: (757) 831-2264 Email:[email protected]

Website: www.thunderroads-virginia.comwww.myspace.com/thunderroads_virginia

OWNER / EDITOR SALES:

Kelly Werrell

Special Thanks to: Warren Ells - our wonderfully talented layout guy who designs our pages & puts all the pieces together for us each month, Rod - for his killer ad designs & Bill of WCFStudios.com, our webmaster, who keeps our site rockin’ on the web. Also many thanks to all of our readers, advertisers & those of you out there that spread the word or pass a magazine to a friend who’s never heard of us before - You ALL are what keeps the Thunder rolling!

THUNDER ROADS VIRGINIA’s “ROAD CREW”SALES CREW

For information about advertising in Thunder Roads Virginia, visit the Advertising page of our website

www.thunderroads-virginia.com or contact any of our Sales Crew listed below.

Covering the state of Virginia

Webmaster

William C. Frohmiller [email protected].

Layout & DesignWarren Ells

Art Director, Thunder Publishing

Rodrigo “Rod” Lobo Guerrero Ad Designer

On Eagles Wings

Reverend Rocky Angone

Preacher Rick Saunders

Pastor Tammy Hayes

Preacher Gordon Bacon

William Day “Wild Bill” (804) [email protected]

(Richmond & surrounding areas)

Steve [email protected]

(757) 727-3435(Eastern VA including the Peninsulas

& Mobile Statewide)

Chad Quinn (540) [email protected] (Southern & Western Virginia)

Susan [email protected]

(804) 253-4563(Southern Virginia & Mobile Statewide)

Suzanne [email protected]

(540) 554-2308

Other Contributing Writers/PhotographersBeth Albert, Bo Albert, Ricky Derby

Chris “Coyote Killer” Holden, Becky LawsonDave Sutton, Mike “Baddog” Thomas, Kelly Werrell

Tim Wilmoth, William “Wild Bill” Day

Special Events PhotographerSkibo Adams 804-241-9759

[email protected] Hog Wild Photography

www.hogwildphotography.com

* All articles & pictures within Thunder Roads Virginia are contributed by our Crew, Thunder Road’s national network

resources & freelance writers/photographers.

MemberOf

Sport Bike Community Correspondent:Curtis “Stitch” Matthews

NATIONAL FOUNDERSToni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon

1528 Matlock DriveChapmansboro, TN 37035

Corporate Office: 615-792-0040 Fax: 615-792-7580

e-mail: [email protected]

Well folks, it was an incredible month last month here in our region with record setting temps, a historical earthquake & to top it off, Hurricane Irene sweeping up the east coast from North Carolina up into New England. September marks the peak of the hurricane season so hopefully we’ll be spared from any more of nature’s fury. It couldn’t get much weirder than what we experienced in August.

With the summer fun coming to an end, the kids back to school & the fall season on it’s way, this month should bring some of the best riding weather of the year. There are some fantastic events yet to come in our calendar too as things start to wind down a bit. If you’re planning a charity event & haven’t yet posted it into our calendar, the fall months are perfect for cooler milder temps for event goers to enjoy riding in.

Just a heads for next month - October is Biker Appreciation Month. Our advertisers will be planning specials just for you to show their appreciation for those who ride. Motorcyclists participate in charity events all throughout the year to support fundraisers that help people in need. Their big hearts & unending compassion to help others should be celebrated in a big way. That’s why years ago, we decided to choose the month of October to encourage people to say THANK YOU to those who ride, in appreciation of their participation & what they do for charity & fundraising events every year. Be sure to pick up your copy of our next issue & see what our advertisers are doing for you to celebrate their appreciation.

Please stay in touch with us & be sure to keep the pictures coming..Hot Shots, Hot Plates, stories, funny pics or whatever. We highly encourage our readers to participate in the magazine in whatever way they can. We wish you all a great month filled with happiness, peace & love. Get out & ride as much as you can to get that wind in your face…it’s great for the soul! Til we see you again…

Happy Trails…..

Kelly

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 ER-ROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LI-ABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PER-SON’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 OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES NOT PRO-MOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.

Calendar Of Events............................................4Proud To Be An American..............................9Hot Shots..............................................................12Clubs & Organizations..................................23The Joker’s Wild..............................................28Biker Friendly Directory..............................32NCOM News Bytes..........................................36On Eagle’s Wings.............................................39Advertisers Index..........................................52

CONTENTS EDITOR’S LETTEROn The Cover

Ride For PinkThe Breast Ride Ever!

October 2, 2011

Sept 1st - 5th11th Annual Outer Banks Bike Show Grandy, NC All Bikes WELCOME. Barry’s on Walnut Island.169 Walnut Island Blvd. Grandy, N.C. 27939 Phone: (252)453-2261. GPS: 36.245104/ -75.866945 $5,000 Poker Run Sat Sept 3rd. 10 Class Bike Show Sun Sept 4th. Charity Event: Navy Special Warfare Foundation (US Navy Seals). Bike Games, Great Food , Cold Beverages, Vendors, “GatorHead Band”, “Triple Shot Band”. “This is a Veteran Owned Event” www.outerbanksbikeshow.com/www.walnutisland.com/www.northcarolinabikeweek.com

Sept 5thLabor Day

Sept 9th – 11th , 2011Thunder in the Smokies Fall Rally Maggie Valley, NC Come ride the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Enjoy Tour Rides, Music Concerts, Bike Builders, Bike Games, Bike Show, Prizes, Vendors and much more during our three-day rally! All bikes and ages welcomed. Gates open at 11am-11pm on Fri., 9am-11pm on Sat. & 9am - 4pm on Sun. Call 828-246-2101 or visit http://www.HandlebarCorral.com

Sept 10th5 Card Draw Biker Band Bash The Adler Center is a 21 bed facility for patients with life limited illnesses. It is currently under construction in Loudon

County and will serve Prince William, Western Fairfax, and Loudon Counties. Discounted beer and ½ price appetizers noon to 10:00. 1ST 5 cards draw hand $15.00. Any hand after with wristband $5.00. Winning hand pays $150.00, 2nd $100.00, and 3rd $50.00. Four 50/50 Drawings at 2,4,6 and 8 PM. Raffle prizes and giveaways. Band schedule to kick it off! Noon to 2:00 Hightest. 2:00 to 4:00 The Lost Highway Band. 4:00 TO 6:00 Jammboxx. 6:00 TO 8:00 Wyldesound. Close It Down 8:00 TO 10:00 The Wrecking Crew. So! Partyiers, Gamblers,Dancers and Bikers Band Lovers – See you on September 10th for a great cause and a great time. Contact Jim “The Undertaker” Todd 703 447 2043 [email protected]

Sept 10th5th Annual Jim Orange Memorial Poker Run Culpeper, VA Scenic poker ride to benefit the Culpeper Food Closet. Sign in at the Cycle Center from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. $20.00 per hand. Live music with the Ronnie Johnson Band at ride end.

Sept 10th 2nd Annual Lupus Poker Run Fredericksburg, VA Come join the crazy 8 to help fight Lupus. Saturday, September 8th. Starts at 10am, at Renegade Classics--316 White Oak Rd, Fredericksburg, Va 22405.....Best hand wins, 50/50 drawing and door prizes! Need more info? Call Kathi Laarz at 540-623-7269, or email at [email protected]

Sept 11th9/11 Freedom Ride Chesapeake, VA On Sunday, September 11th, the Virginia Freedom Festival is sponsoring a Freedom Ride to support the many charities associated with the event and in remembrance of 9/11/2001. Peninsula riders will meet at NASCAR Sports Grille and proceed to Bayside Harley in Portsmouth to join other riders. They will then have an escorted ride to the Festival site at Chesapeake City Park. Please visit the site www.vafreedomfest.com for information and a link to the Freedom Ride. Submitted by John Downs, Sr. Public Affairs (757) 382-6159

Sept 15th – 18th11th annual Delmarva Bike Week Four locations: Seacrets in Ocean City, Winter Place Park and Perdue Stadium in Salisbury,Harley-Davidson of Seaford, Seaford, Del. Event is FREE to get in, FREE to park your bike and is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thur-Sat, 9-4 on Sunday. Corporate show rigs, demo

SAVE YOUR DATE!!! IS YOUR EVENT IN OUR CALENDAR??? If not, submit it on the Events page of our website www.thunderroads-virginia by the 15th of the month so it will make it into the next issue. We need events submitted as far in advance as possible so that others can be respectful of the date that you’ve chosen for yours.

ONGOING EVENTS

BIKER CHURCH SERVICES

Biker Church Service Mechanicsville, MD Rushing Wind Ministry, 29025 Three Notch Rd., Mechanicsville, MD 20659, Gordon Bacon, Preacher, 240-577-0605, [email protected]. Sunday service 10am -10:30am gathering and fellowship with coffee and snacks. Wednesday Bible study 7pm-8:30. Friday night bike night 6:30pm-10pm. Services are held every Sunday; Bible Study held every Wednesday; Bike Night ever Friday Night.

Liberty Biker Church & Blessing of the Bikes Isle of Wight County, VA Our focus is sharing the Word of God with the motorcycle community, without all the preconceived ideas that you have to dress a certain way or look like everyone else. For anyone who thinks you have to fit in or be like everyone else, guess what: People can be different. And so is Liberty Biker Church. Hang-around (social) time: 10 a.m. with free donuts and coffee. Worship service: 11 a.m. with Christian rock band Stronghold providing the church music. Our address is 17011 Courthouse Hwy, Isle of Wight County, VA, contact is Pastor Jim Manner, (757) 376-3612 –We hold services every Sunday & we hold a Blessing of the Bikes the 1st Sunday of each month.

Tidewater Motorcycles Chili Dog Social EVERY TUESDAY Free Chili Dog’s every Tuesday at Tidewater Motorcycles. 4324 Godwin Blvd, Suffolk, VA 23434. visit www.tidewatermotorcycles.net for more info.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 4

rides, riding associated vendors, live music, food, charity rides, thrill shows. www.thedelmarvabikeweek.com

Sept 17th1st Annual The Ville Bike Show Mechanicsville, VA The Ville Mechanicsville will hold it’s first annual bike show hosted by Boston September 17th. 4pm to 8pm. Awards will be given on stage in The Ville at 6pm. Live Music, Vending, Bike Show by Boston, 50/50 drawing and so much more! 7526 Mechanicsville Tpke, Mechanicsville, VA 23111 Keep in touch with The Ville by stopping by, checking us out on Facebook.com/thevillemechanicsville.com, or call 804-730-8888.

Sept 17th3RD Annual Charity Ride to benefit St. Jude’s Prince George, VA Ride starts at 9:30 am at Commonwealth Power Sports ends at same location with a band, vendors, raffle and door prizes. Drawings to be held at 4:00 pm. Only $10.00 if you pre-register by Sept. 1st FREE event patch to the first 100 people who pre-register or pay $15.00 day of ride ( no freebies included). For more information visit: www.capitalcityscrc.org or contact Glenn Spain at [email protected] for a form to pre-register. Sponsored by Southern Cruisers Riding Club Capital City Chapter #165 and Commonwealth Power Sports 2000 Waterside Rd. Prince George,Va 23875 Phone: 804-526-2300

Sept 18thIsle of Wight County Fair Poker Run Isle of Wight County The American Legion Post 49 along with the Isle of Wight County Fair is sponsoring a poker run for a sick little girl 11 years old. Her name is Madison Arnott. Madison is in the care of CHKD & could use some help with her doctor bills. The donation will get you into the fair to see the attractions as well as the concert that day. Location: Isle of Wight County Fair

Sept 18th14th Annual Vets Run Hampton &Virginia Beach, VA Virginia Beach Elks Lodge #2268 is hosting it’s 14th Annual Vets Run to benefit the Hampton VA Hospital morale and welfare fund. Registration is from 9am to 11am at the Hampton ELks Lodge located at 95 Tide Mill Lane, Hampton, VA 23666. From there the ride will proceed to The VA Hospital where a catered lunch and entertainment with our vets awaits. The ride will then conclude at the “mighty” #2268 in Va Beach with door

prizes, raffles and much more. Questions please contact Sam Spencer at [email protected] or call the lodge 757-425-6708. You get a free t-shirt with pre-registration which ends on September 1,2011!

Sep 18th Dirt Drags @ Slade’s Park Surry, VA Gates open 9 a.m. Admission $15, kids under 10 not racing are FREE. Free vendor setup - please call 1st. Trophies & Cash-All Classes. Top Fuel at it’s Best-Pro Gas/Dirt Bikes. No Colors - No Glass - No Dogs!!! For info call Joe Brookman (804)221-3959. Rain date Sep 25th

Sept 28th – Oct 2ndMyrtle Beach Fall Rallyhttp://www.myrtlebeachbikeweek.com

Oct 1stSecond Annual SOF Warrior FoundationKids to College Poker Run Portsmouth, VA Hampton Roads Virginia. The Viet Nam Vets / Legacy Vets Motorcycle Club are sponsoring the second annual Special Operations Warrior Foundation Kids to collage Poker run. The SOF Warrior foundation provides full scholarship grants and educational and family counseling to the surviving children of Special Operations Personnel who die in operational or training missions and immediate financial assistance to severely wounded special operations personnel and their families. Run will start at Bayside Harley-Davidson, 2211 Frederick Boulevard, Portsmouth VA (I-264, Exit 5) and will end at Pappas Pub 2105 Diamond Springs Road Virginia Beach, VA . Registration starts at 9am, Last Bike Out at 10:30. Donation of $10.00 per Person is requested. Extra hands available for $5.00. Door prizes, Auction 50/50 and other events will start at 2:30. Prizes for best hand / worst hand and largest group. For more information Contact Recoil at [email protected] or Bettye at [email protected]

Oct 1st“Heroes for Babies” Car, Truck & Bike Show Hampton, VA This is an open show for all cars, trucks & motorcycle. Trophies will be given to the top 25 , plus best car, best truck & best motorcycle. 8am to 4pm. Also a trophy will be given to the best in show. This will be a professionally judged show by G.S. Grifana Carshows Inc. Vendors are welcome. Rain date is set for Oct 2nd. All proceeds from this show will be given to the March of Dimes. The location is behind Tysinger’s Motors Inc at 2712 Magruder Blvd, Hampton, VA 23666. Sponsors for the event are: Farmers




Insurance District 21, Jax Wax of VA, Tysinger’s Motor Inc., & G. S. Grifana Carshows, Inc. for additional info call 757-825-6066 ask for Yeliz Entrance fee are $20 pre-registration or $25 day of show. Location: Tysinger’s Motors Inc at 2712 Magruder Blvd, Hampton, VA 23666

Oct 2ndRide For Pink Virginia Beach, VA FREE Concert with the national recording artist “FUEL” !!! Join us Sunday Oct 2nd for the RIDE FOR PINK event. Presented by The Biker’s Depot. Registration is $10 & from 9am to 11am held at 2 locations: On the Southside – Biker’s Depot, 612 Nevan Rd, Virginia Beach; VA. On the Peninsula – Cheeseburger in Paradise, 12361 Hornsby Lane, Newport News. The Main Event will be held from 12pm to 6pm at Hunt Club Farms, Virginia Beach, VA. Live Music, Food, Beverages, Tricycle Races, Corn Hole, Giveaways, Live & Silent Auctions & more. The Miss Ride For Pink Bike-ini Contest hosted by the International Bikini Team. After Party from 6pm to close at Grumpy’s Bar and Grill, 995 Kempsville Rd., Virginia Beach, VA. Rain Date: Sunday Oct 9, 2011 – registration starts at same locations. Event located at Diesel Rock & Country Bar, 1375 Oceana Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA. For questions contact Phyllis at [email protected] or (757) 679-7999. For more info visit www.rideforpink.org or find us on Facebook.

Oct 8thFund raiser for 10th Anniversary Feed The Hunger Food Drive Newport News, VA This event will support the Tenth Anniversary Food Drive by Councilwoman Sharon P. Scott of Newport News, VA. Over 50% of kids go hungry and have insufficient quality of food, even at school. 20.00 Donation for rider 5.00 for passenger, First 25 riders get special gifts. 757 870-4916 Ask for Marvin and His 2006 Electra Glide Ultra Classic. Quaker Steak & Lube, 12832 Jefferson AvenueNewport News, VA 23608

Oct 8thFraternal Order of Eagles Poker Run for Alzheimer’s Research Virginia Beach, VA First Bike Out at 9:00 A.M. (1061 Newtown Road, Va. Beach, across from new Williams Elementary School). Pig Roast to Follow Event with DJ. Raffles and Prizes. Riders $10. Passengers $5. Registration 7:30 – 9:00 A.M. More information: Contact: Shelley Crook: 757-373-4811 OR Bill Crook: 757-407-3903

Oct 9thDirt Drags @ Slade’s Park Surry, VA Gates open 9 a.m. Admission $15, kids under 10 not

racing are FREE. Free vendor setup - please call 1st. Trophies & Cash-All Classes. Top Fuel at it’s Best-Pro Gas/Dirt Bikes. No Colors - No Glass - No Dogs!!! For info call Joe Brookman (804)221-3959. Rain date Oct 16th

Oct 10thColumbus Day

Oct 23rdSherri Parker Memorial Poker Run & Bike Show Driver, VA Sherri Parker Memorial Poker Run and Bike Show Driver,VA. Benefiting the Sherri Parker Memorial Fund Inc., and the Driver Volunteer Fire Dept. Poker Run Registration 9:30-11:30 at Bayside Harley Davidson Portsmouth. Bike Show registration 12:00-2:00 in Driver. Rain date Oct.30. Contact Holly Hoffler at 757-538-3944

Nov 6thToys 4 Tots Poker RunSave the date! Details to follow

Nov 11thVeteran’s Day

Nov 24thThanksgiving

Dec 10thWreaths Across America Ride 2011 Info about Wreaths Across America project and specific Ride details for the following Virginia locations of Leesburg, Culpeper, Alexandria, Triangle, Winchester, Richmond, Amelia, Sandston, Yorktown, Mechanicsville, Suffolk, Hampton, Hopewell. Powell Valley Veteran’s Memorial Gardens, Staunton, Lynchburg, Danville, Arlington, & Scottsville, can be found at http://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/Locations/Virginia

Dec 25thChristmas


Kryptonite 5-S Disc Lock

Kryptonite manufactures a disk brake rotor lock which is economical and can be purchased from just about any motorcycle parts source. If your local/favorite shop does not have this product in any of their cata-logs, then you can find a dealer via their website at www.kryptonitelock.com.

The 5-S Disk Lock has a 5.5mm pin that will fit through the smaller vent holes on rotors with small vent holes, and, it has a “high security” key configura-tion. Furthermore, Kryptonite has a key registration service – once you register your keys (the lock comes with 2 keys (in case you lose one). Should you man-age to lose BOTH keys, they will send you two new keys – FOR FREE! One time only... but if you keep losing keys and you will have to start paying for new keys.

The 5-S Disk Lock comes with a nylon carrying pouch with a Velcro closure and a plastic belt clip. I managed to break the belt clip the first time I went on the road with the 5-S Disk Lock and lost the lock and pouch; on re-tracing my route I managed to find the pouch... but not the lock! I called the Kryptonite customer service

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

number and found out that they are aware of the prob-lem with the belt clip and work is in progress to rectify the situation. They sent me a new lock – that’s what I call a first class business operation!

Upon receiving the new lock, I put it into the pouch and squeezed the belt clip... snap... well I’ll be dipped... I barely squeezed the clip and it also broke on a line with a rivet hole. So, I put the lock into my pocket. I may make a bracket, have it chrome plated and lock the 5-S Disk Lock onto it while the motor-cycle is on the road. There is a integral bracket at the top of my down tubes which has a hole in it and the 5-S Disk Lock could be secured there for traveling, but, I suspect it may beat up the paint on my down tubes. So, until I get around to figuring out where I want to place a traveling mount, it will be in my pocket while on the road.

Here is a helpful suggestion: Since I often have a problem remembering to turn the gas on, I am just as likely to forget to remove the disc lock before let-ting the clutch out. So I did a quick search online for a “Remove Before Flight” (RBF) ribbon. Although I bought a RBF ribbon about three feet long that will reach from the lock to my throttle grip; I also bought one about six inches long that I put onto my key ring so that when I remove my ignition key from the bike, it gets clipped to the ring with the RBF ribbon.

Bottom line: the Kryptonite 5-S Disk Lock works for me.

Article and photos contributed by Russell “Raz” Holder / KNUCKLEHEADS FOREVER!


AN AMERICANProud To Be

911Day.orgMission

Our hopeful mission, by annually organizing the 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance (“9/11 Day”), is to provide a positive and forward-looking way for Americans and others to forever honor and remember the 9/11 victims, survivors, and the many that rose in service in response to the 9/11 tragedy, including first responders, recovery workers, volun-teers, public safety officers and members of our military.

It is easy and free to participate. All you need to do (joining millions of others around the world) is observe the anniversary of 9/11 by performing good deeds, supporting charitable causes, volunteering and engaging in other acts of compassion.

This year, for the 10-year anniversary of 9/11, our non-profit group, MyGoodDeed, is partnering with HandsOn Network to co-lead efforts to organize the single largest day of charitable service in United States history. HandsOn Network is the leading volunteer service organization in the nation and the volunteer activation division of the Points of Light Institute. We also are working with many other prominent program partners on this historic effort includ-ing the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, Business Civic Leadership Center of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, AARP, The Mission Continues, and the Cor-poration for National and Community Service (a federal grant-making agency.) Please feel free to take a moment to view some of our wonderful (and short) Public Service mes-sages. Also visit and “like” our 9/11 Day Facebook page, and follow-us on Twitter.

A Bit More About Our HistoryThe 9/11 Day Observance was originally created in 2002

by David Paine, with his friend Jay Winuk. David and Jay had worked together in New York City, long before the 9/11 attacks. Tragically Jay’s younger brother Glenn was one of the nearly 3,000 people killed on 9/11. Glenn Winuk was a partner at the prominent national law firm Holland & Knight LLP, which in 2001 had one of its largest offices located a block from Ground Zero in New York City. For almost 20 years Glenn also was a volunteer firefighter and EMT, specially trained and certified in building collapse rescue operations, working out of the Jericho Volunteer Fire Department on Long Island. When the World Trade Center

was attacked, Glenn helped to evacuate his law offices, then raced into the WTC’s South Tower to participate in the rescue efforts. Glenn died in the line of duty along with many others when that building collapsed. His partial re-mains were found in March 2002, a borrowed first response medical kit by his side. (The Winuk family was one of ap-proximately 40 percent the families that recovered remains from the 9/11 tragedy.) In 2003 David and Jay formed the nonprofit group One Day’s Pay in honor of Glenn and all those who perished. The organization was later renamed MyGoodDeed.

In the years thereafter David and Jay were joined by more than 22 other leaders in the 9/11 community to help build support for the 9/11 Day Observance, including Alice Hoagland, mother of Flight 93 hero Mark Bingham, Cindy


AN AMERICANProud To Be

McGinty, a 9/11 widow and co-founder of the Massachussetts Military Heroes Fund, Edie Lutnick, director of the Cantor Fitzgerald Relief Fund, and Mary Fetchet, co-founder of Voices of September 11. Then, in 2009, with widespread support of the 9/11 community and strong bi-partisan backing, they were able to secure passage of federal legislation incorporated into the Edward M. Kennedy ServeAmerica Act, that formally recognized and lead to the official establishment of Septem-ber 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance under federal law and Presidential Proclamation. To date, more than one million people from all 50 states and 165 countries have visited the 9/11 Day website.

MyGoodDeed Inc. is a tax-exempt nonprofit organization in good standing under section 501(c)3 of the Internal Rev-enue Service Code.

Contact Us: For more information please contact us at [email protected]. Or call 949-809-6780. Program Leaders View the full list of contributors Program Partners 1 2 3 4 5 Made possible thanks to: Lead Contributor National Contributors 1 2 3

Like most of us, John Kerechek, an AMA member in Balti-more, Maryland, has had issues with a parking gate and his motorcycle;

I ride a BMW R1200CM to work most days. I park in a mul-tilevel parking garage and have a monthly parking pass. The problem I’m experiencing is being able to leave the parking lot.

It seems, depending on the position of the motorcycle, the gate either opens or not -- mostly not Most days an attendant has to manually open the gate.

The other day, I attended a class at another location and experienced the same problem -- the gate would not open. The attendant said they always have this problem with mo-torcycles.

I’m not sure, but there must be some type of sensing device the gates use that is not motorcycle-friendly. Are other riders experiencing the same problem, and if so, what have they done?

Unfortunately, the answer to this problem is not an easy one, and solutions are as varied as parking gate manufac-turers and installers. Ultimately, though, the solution may depend on the owner of the property.

Carri Upton, a security gate installer who currently works at Texas Security Gates, says the systems they install are all solid-state 12-volt systems with a magnetic probe detector -- a loop of wire imbedded in the pavement.

“The probe sends a signal to an electronic switch called an ‘operator’ that tells it something is coming,” she says. “Timers then close it automatically.”

When closing, the gates use a safety cut-off switch that re-verses the direction if it encounters an obstacle, Upton says.

The first thing to consider if the gate does not recognize you is to look at the area in front of the gate, and try to locate the loop itself. Look for an actual cut in the asphalt, usually in the shape of a square. Placing your motorcycle directly over part of the loop will have a better effect than sitting totally within it, Upton says. (This method may also work at stop-lights as well.)

Another solution could come from politely asking manage-ment to adjust the sensitivity of the loop, Upton says. The system can be adjusted across a wide range -- at higher set-tings, something as small as a metal notebook can set it off.

Then there’s another solution -- although it would require the parking gate owners to spend some money. “The prop-erty could even add something to the exit gate, like a photo eye,” she says. “If anything breaks the plane, it tells the system to open the gate.”

Then there’s the other side of the coin -- the gate manu-facturer who’s far more cautious of motorcycles, usually for liability reasons. In Roselle, Illinois, Larry Landis, owner of Parking Systems Incorporated, describes the problem differ-ently, and says there is no easy solution.

“The real problem,” Landis says, “is that most bikes are aluminum.”

He says they are 1/3 less detectable than steel with his equipment. Landis says he puts a warning sign on all the security gates he installs, stating motorcycles, bicycles and

pedestrians are not allowed. His worry is that the arm could come down unexpectedly -- on top or in front of a motorcy-clist.

Given a property that intends to have motorcycles coming and going, Landis says he would recommend a card, inter-com, or token type system.

“The real problem,” says Imre Szauter, AMA legislative affairs specialst, “is the fact that these manufacturers aren’t designing gates for motorcycle use.”

He recommends appealing to your state legislator and asking that they require state funded parking systems to al-low motorcycles. “Any publicly funded parking facility should have provisions for motorcycle parking. To that end we are in the process of drafting model legislation that can be used in all states to correct this.

“Short of requiring facilities to make their gates accessible to motorcycles, there is no such thing as a perfect solution,” Szauter adds. “One of the best we’ve seen so far -- at least in the short term -- is the one we were able to broker between motorcyclists and the City of Sacramento at a municipal parking garage.”

A liability concern there was addressed and solved by reducing the length of the gate, and by creating free park-ing areas for motorcycles out of awkward spots where cars couldn’t fit.

So, here’s the final answer: If repositioning your motorcycle over the loop doesn’t solve the problem, you’re probably looking at an appeal to the parking facility’s management. Be polite, and you may want to offer to help officials by providing you and your bike to help adjust sensitivity. Or suggest they cut a bit off the end of the arm.

No, there is no easy solution, but at least you know what you’re up against.

Parking Gates vs. Motorcycles


SEND US YOUR HOTS SHOTS!!! Email your pictures to: [email protected] .



Dine in only. Not to be combined with any other offer or special.

Exp. Nov 18, 2011

(Seafood Appetizers not included in this offer). Dine in only. Not to be combined with any other offer or special. Valid Monday through Thursday 4pm to 8pm. Exp. Nov 18, 2011

(Seafood Appetizers not included in this offer). Dine in only. Not to be combined with any other offer or special. Valid Monday through Thursday 4pm to 8pm.Exp. Nov 18, 2011.

(Alcohol excluded). Dine in only. Not to be combined with any other offer or special. Valid

Monday through Thursday 4pm to 8pm. Exp. Nov 18, 2011.

(1 child per adult). Dine in only. Not to be combined with any other offer or special. Valid everyday.

Exp. Nov 18, 2011.

1/2 off Buy one Lunch or Dinner entrée

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entrée at 1/2 off the regular menu price. Valid Monday

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FREE Appetizer Purchase One Dinner entrée at

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15% OFF Entire Check Good for 15% off the entire guest check when ordering

items from the regular menu

KIDS EAT FREE

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purchase of any adult entrée from the regular menu

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10% Senior Citizens’ Discount

(55 & Over)

$40,000 Tire And A Million Dollar ExperienceSunday June 19th was just an ordinary day, I had pro-

posed a $20 buck ride to the chapter on some wonder-ful motorcycle roads and was rewarded with more HOG brother’s and Sister’s then I thought possible, what a great surprise. The ride was perfect, the food was unbelievable and the friendship was unparalleled. After leaving the restaurant we were heading down route 360 towards Old Church Road when my Electra Glide decided to act strange ( wobble in the rear end). Well, I have experienced this before and knew what I had...a flat tire. It wasn’t until later that I found that I had rim failure. The 40 spoke smooth rim is actually a 3 piece rim and one of the sides separated.

We were able to get the bike towed to Hampton Roads Harley Davidson (on a Sunday mind you) and Chad Cox facilitated the opening of the Hog Pen to store my bike for the night so they could start on it Monday. Jed and Donna followed the tow truck with Nancy, me and Harley in and on it so Donna could open the gate, reminding me all the way by text “We are on our Bike” (experience one). The Virginia state HOG Rally was scheduled to begin on Thursday and I being a committee member needed my bike for the rally, because you just don’t drive a car to a motorcycle rally (my philosophy anyway). Try as they might, at HRHD, they could not locate a rim locally and had to order from Harley which means, I might be bikeless at the Rally. God please say it isn’t so. Nancy (my darling bride of 31 years) had been hinting to me, by saying directly in my ear as many times as possible, Harley (what we call our Electra Glide) has almost 100,000 miles. Don’t you think it’s time to get a second bike? Those that know me and know my bike real-ize we will never get rid of Harley.

Chad Cox, Jason and Debbie at HRHD and I became very good friends immediately. I was at the dealership Monday night looking at bikes (remember, I was not go-ing to be Bikeless at the rally), knowing full well that early Tuesday I had to fly to Cleveland for business and that’s a long way from HRHD. Thanks to the invention of email and cell phones, I kept Chad from his assigned duties as he emailed pictures of bikes back and forth with all the details from morning to night (I actually did get some work accom-plished). Hopefully Chad did also. I had my mind set on a CVO Street Glide (the Green one they had in the dealership THE WEEK BEFORE). I mean, how dare someone buy My Bike when I needed it most. Well, after calls to every dealer in reasonable driving distance from HRHD (1,000 miles or so), Chad could not locate the Green CVO Street Glide that any dealership would relinquish.

My return from Cleveland was fraught with all the normal things that occur in today’s flying world, so I did not get home until 2:00 AM. I was at the dealership promptly at 8:30 that morning hoping some miracle had taken place and Harley had a new rim and tire, but no luck… the rim had not arrived. I came back at 10:00 AM when the sales floor opened and sat down with Chad once again and he didn’t kick me out. Although in my mind I had and still was being a pain in the A$$ (experience two). We looked at the cur-rent inventory as well as what was available at Southside

Harley Davidson, I gravitated to the Deep Cranberry CVO Road Glide (with a little prompting from Chad and Jason) and although beautiful I was not convinced.

Well time was running short and I needed to get to the Rally, in a Car of all things, what has this world come to? Prior to departing, I asked Jason if he could do me a huge favor,. When Nancy got off work she was coming to the dealership and could he give her a ride on his Road Glide so she could get the feel of the bike. Well in true fashion not only did he agree, when she arrived he took her on the CVO I was looking at (experience three), which she loved. I received a text almost immediately from my lovely Bride that she had decided on our second bike. I called right away and said to her “we need to discuss this, you were there just to compare”. She replied “If I wait for you decide, I could be 100. This is the Bike” and she is correct that I tend to procrastinate at times. Remember this whole time I am at the State Rally in a CAR.

Well now comes the Heart of the Story. Chad and the entire team at Hampton Roads Harley Davidson worked schedules and covered for people just so Cliff (service manager) could deliver my Brand 2011 CVO Road Glide to the Virginia State HOG Rally in Petersburg Virginia (about an Hour and a Half away), and drive that damn Car back to the dealership. Not only did he bring up the bike, he did the preflight and took all the time needed to explain the work-ings of the Road Glide (Experience four). Tell me friends…where would you find that type of customer service these days? For those of you old enough to remember, that har-kens back to the services provided in the 50’s and 60’s, but rarely found today.

Now here is the morale and reason for this entire story, I am not anybody famous or special. I am a Customer just like you, but Friends let me tell you.. in this day and age of diminishing customer service and things being outsourced to other countries, I do not have enough adjectives or acco-lades for the Entire Team at Hampton Roads Harley Da-vidson and the way I was made to feel by them going that “Extra Mile” which if you give them a chance you will find it how they treat each customer (family member) who walks through their doors. Yes I do feel like a Million Dollars and yes I tell the story because so seldom in this day and age do we hear of someone going that “Extra Mile” and this was the entire team, not just one or two people. As a side note; Ron Childs (general manager of Colonial Harley Davidson in Colonial Heights) was showing a 2011 CVO Electra Glide Ultra to a member from our area here on Saturday and noted to him “I can deliver it to you in Chesapeake if you would like, I hear Hampton Roads is doing that” . I was there to hear it myself. Mary, Chad, Cliff, Jason and all the Team at HRHD, Thank you for making this experience one of those “Once in a Lifetime Million Dollar Events”. And Yes We Love the Road Glide.

Mark Mulvaney HR Hog Member since 2004HRHD Customer for Life


Get into a higher spiritual gear!17011 Courthouse Hwy., Isle of Wight County, VA

Hangaround (social) time: begins at 10 a.m. on Sundays, free donuts & coffee

Worship service: 11 a.m. on Sundaysmusic by Christian rock band Stronghold

learn more online: www.libertybikerchurch.com or call Jim at 1-757-376-3612


I want to thank all who attended the Virginia Legisla-tive Roundtable in Richmond yesterday. We had a good cross section of the motorcycling community there and the discussion was lively and productive. The purpose of the Roundtable was to decide on the legislation that the Vir-ginia Coalition of Motorcyclists will pursue in the upcoming year. We discussed a wide range of topics with the goal of pairing it down to two or three issues. It has to be that small because it is too difficult to get numerous bills through in a single year. If you are going to work them properly you must pick a few. We actually narrowed it down to four. Keep in mind that each of these bills is subject to finding a patron in the House or Senate to carry it. It is also subject to the November elections because we do not know what the General Assembly will look like given the fact that all members are up for election this year. Closer to election time I will put out a list of motorcycle friendly candidates. Alright, on to the matters that we will address.

First we intend to introduce legislation to ban motorcycle only checkpoints in Virginia. It was unanimously agreed that this was the number one priority this year. Everyone on this distribution list is familiar with this issue. Given the feedback that I have received it is a universal sentiment amongst motorcyclists that this is a bad practice that should not be tolerated. We have written up proposed legislation and I am in the process of finding a patron.

Next we looked at the prohibition against riding two abreast in Virginia. As many of you know it is considered reckless driving for two motorcyclists to ride next to each other in Virginia. In 48 other states it is completely legal. Despite the fact that there is no data to show that two mo-torcyclists riding abreast are more likely to be in an acci-dent, and further given the fact that Virginia recently passed legislation to allow on-duty law enforcement officers to do so, it still remains a jail-able offense for the general motor-cycling community in Virginia. This will be a difficult fight and may depend greatly on the outcome of the upcoming elections which all in attendance agreed must be watched closely in determining how we proceed on this legislation.

The next issue on which we focused was the issue of licensing with regard to trikes. As everyone knows three wheeled motorcycles are becoming more and more popu-lar. It is no longer a matter of someone deciding to go from a two wheeled machine to a three. With vehicles such as the Can Am, many riders are starting on three wheeled vehicles. We know that many states have started issuing separate licenses for two wheeled and three wheeled mo-torcycles. Additionally, there is the issue of three wheeled cars which we do not want classified as motorcycles for obvious reasons. You sit in those not on those. You use a gas pedal and brake pedal and a steering wheel. They are nothing like motorcycles even though they fit the definition under current Virginia law. It was agreed that legislation is eventually coming to Virginia and we as motorcyclists should be on the front line instead of reacting to what may

be bad legislation. What we do not want to happen is to have currently licensed motorcyclists be required to take another test in order to ride a trike. At the same time, we did not want to see a new rider who has never been on a bike go jump on an automatic three wheeler, get his li-cense and then jump on a two wheeler and take off down the road to become a statistic that will be used against us. We would propose making a separate definition for three wheeled cars. We do not want to be bunched in with those. Secondly, if you have a motorcycle endorsement you should be able to ride any type of motorcycle be it a two wheeler, a three wheeler or motorcycle with a side car. However, the proposed legislation would state that if you take your exam on a trike then you will receive a license which limits you to trikes. If you want to ride two wheeled motorcycles then you will have to demonstrate your profi-ciency on them before you are licensed.

Lastly we took a look at last year’s HB 1412. This was a bill by Delegate Tim Hugo which raised the threshold for reporting water damage to vehicles from $1,000 to $3,500. Being that many motorcycles on the road have a fair market value of less than $3,500, it was proposed that we amend that statute to bring the threshold for motorcycles down to the original level. Jim and I will be speaking to Delegate Hugo’s office concerning this matter in the near future.

Keep in mind that all of the above is proposed legisla-tion. It does not indicate what the law is now but instead it reflects proposed changes that those attending the Round-table felt would be beneficial to Virginia motorcyclists. Once again it will be up to all of us to make our voices heard in order to bring about positive change in Virginia. Mark your calendars now for January 16, 2012. That will be Lobby Day this Year. The day prior, January 15, will be our annual Pre-Lobby Day meeting where we will discuss legislation that we support and legislation that we oppose. We usu-ally wrap up with a great BBQ dinner and then it is off to the capitol the next morning. It is always great when we have a large showing. Last year was a record and coincidentally we had one of our best legislative sessions ever. I would encourage you to participate if you can.

Again I want to thank all who participated in the Round-table. I also want to thank those who could not attend but emailed their concerns. I will be in touch as these ideas progress into actual bills. Until then continue to ride free. As usual if you have any questions or comments concern-ing anything that I have written here please feel free to contact me.

Matt DanielsonMcGrath & DanielsonTom McGrath’s Motorcycle Law Group1-800-321-8968Motorcyclelawgroup.com

Virginia Legislative Round Table - Richmond, VA


CALLING ALL REDNECK COOKS

Next time you have a barbecue try making some Redneck Turtle Burgers. This is a new twist on how to serve burgers at your next BBQ. Your guests will have a laugh and they’re sure to enjoy them.

Form handmade ground beef patties, top with sharp cheddar cheese, wrap in a bacon weave, (use the cheese to keep the bacon shell on). Next step, add hotdogs pieces as the heads and legs with slits for toes and shape a tail. If ya really wanna get artistic you can carve a hotdog head with eyes and a mouth slit! Next Step: Place gently on yer grill and cover with an aluminum foil dome and only turn once. Or if it’s a rainin’, you can place yer turtles on an oven rack, covered loosely with foil dome and baked for 20-30 minutes at 400 degrees. A little crispy, not too crunchy! Just how a turtle should be, right? Slap them Turtles in a hamburger bun and serve! (See if your guests eat ‘em head or tail first)


Oct 8th, 2011. We will be celebrating our 39th anniversa-ry of opening the shop and Lee’s birthday. We will have music, pinstripping by Michael Hall, food and a good time plus some specials. It’s been a long road but a good one and we’re not done yet!!!!


ABATE of Virginia welcomes all riders to join in the fight to protect your rights. No matter what you ride, we want YOU! For more information contact Sharon Keaton at 540-937-3924 or [email protected]. Stay on top of the latest ABATE news and events by visiting www.ABATEofVA.com.

ABATE Coalfield Riders Chapter ( Grundy , VA ) meets 7PM every 2nd Saturday at Caleb & Melissa's garage, Deel Fork, Grundy , VA 24614-9600 . Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Steve Stacy at 276-935-2484 or [email protected]

ABATE Culpeper Chapter ( Culpeper , VA ) meets 7PM every 2nd Thursday at Hazel River Pub, 105 E Davis St, Culpeper , VA 22701. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Tim Dalman at 540-219-6366 or [email protected]

ABATE 1st Capitol Chapter meets the 1st Sunday of every month at the Williamsburg Moose Lodge (5429 Richmond Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188) NOT at Beachcombers in Yorktown.

ABATE Iron Horse Calvary Chapter ( Lynchburg , VA) meets 7PM every 1st Tuesday at Mary Jane's Café, 826 Kemper St, Lynchburg , VA 24502-3250. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Tronco at 434-993-3197 or [email protected]

ABATE Lonesome Pine Chapter (Wise, VA)meets 6:30PM every 1st Tuesday at Mosby's Restaurant, 205 Ridgeview Rd, Wise , VA 24293. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Shag Mead at 276-565-4541 or [email protected]

ABATE Mason-Dixon Chapter ( Fairfax , VA )meets 8PM every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at John's Place, 11104 Lee Hwy, Fairfax , VA 22030-5005. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Bob Seoane at 703-206-0571or [email protected]

ABATE Olde Dominion Chapter ( Falls Church , VA ) meets 8PM every 1st Monday at JVs Restaurant, 6666 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church , VA 22042-2145. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Tank Fortner at 703-309-7197 or [email protected]

ABATE River City Chapter ( Richmond , VA )'No meetings, just action!' For more information contact Steve Skeens at 804-389-8293 or [email protected]

ABATE Virginia Cruisers Chapter ( Hampton , VA ) meets 1PM every 1st Sunday at Mugzy's Grill, 1312 E. Pembroke Ave, Hampton, VA. Everyone welcome. For more information contact Pete Bulgart at 757-870-1517 or John at [email protected].

AMBASSADORS FOR JESUS CHRIST MOTORCYCLE MINISTRY (Virginia Chapter) Do you have a love for the lost and a passion for motorcycles? Then the Ambassadors for JESUS CHRIST may be for you. We meet the 4th Saturday of each month (except Nov and Dec) at the Major Hillard Library 824 Old George Washington Hwy N Chesapeake Va at 10am-12pm. For more information contact: Sean “Bronx” 757-338-1974, or Eric “Holyman” 757-237-6018, or www.ambassadorsecmm.org

Beacons/Christian Motorcycle Association - Meetings: 2nd Monday of each month, Piccadilly Cafeteria, Military Hwy, 6-8 PM. Monthly ride: 4th Saturday of each month, depart from Shoney’s on Indian River Rd. Check our website for ride times and more information: http://cmaner5.org/VA/BEACONSOFTIDEWATER or contact President Lenny Stowell at (757) 420-4411 or [email protected]

Brothers In Arms MCThe Brothers In Arms MC was formed to support the members of our armed forces, past and present, create a camaraderie between like-minded men and women from those services, share in our love of motorcycling and support veteran charities and causes. The Yorktown Chapter usually meets on the third Sunday of the month at various locations in the Yorktown area. The Brothers In Arms MC is a neutral, non-territorial club. For more information about the club and contact links, visit the chapter web site at www.biamc-yorktown.com.

Christian Motorcyclist Association Northern Virginia Chapter 348 www.nvcrcma.com NVCR meets 3rd Sat each month @ Old Country Buffet in Manassas @ 9:00 am, President – Rick Saunders, [email protected] Richmond, Va. 23230. Mike Walton, President (804) 514-9123 meetings come out and ride with us anyway. It’s not about the meetings. For more information on meetings or rides please contact our chapter president, Mark Johnson, at [email protected] or go the www.star440.org

Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. Our membership is comprised of Full Members (those with verified combat service) and Supporter Members ( those who havenon-combat military service, and have a sincere dedication to helping veterans ).Many members continue to serve in our Armed Forces, with several serving in combatareas now. Virginia Chapter 27-1, Hampton Roads, Va. and Virginia Chapter 27-2, Quanitco, Va., Both chapters meet monthly. For informataion to join contact Ed “Amerbadas” Lonecke Jr., Commander Southern Virginia 27-1, at [email protected] or Graig “Spanky” Benson, Commander Northern Virginia 27-2, at [email protected] Our Virginia website can be accessed through our National Website: http://combatvet.org/

Moose Riders District 8 Meetings 1st Monday of Month. Contact Bubba @ 804-691-7671. Email: [email protected] or Jeff @ 804-892-3346 Email: [email protected]

Road Wench East Coast Women’s Motorcycle Club in Northern VirginiaWebsite: http://roadwenchmc.com/ Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100000803818092

TAMA – Tidewater Albemarle Motorcycle Association. ALL clubs or any organization that hosts rides/events are welcome to attend. Come out & meet some good people from all around the area. We’re all working together so that each one our rides/events can be scheduled not to conflict with others & then we can all have a successful turnout. Our meetings are held @ 7pm on the 3rd Thursday of every month (except December). Beginning January 20th, 2011, meetings will be held at Mary Jaynes Lazy Horse, 565 Cedar Rd, Chesapeake, VA23322.

The Sons of God Motorcycle Club Ministry® made up of Christian Bikers whoshare a vision of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ with other bikers.We hold bible study every Monday evening. For more information call TJ(757) 819-3362, Thing (757) 621-4891 or Grape Ape (757) 831-1294. or visitour website at www.sonsofgodmc.org

VA Sons Of Liberty Riders American Patriots Defending the Constitutionwww.sonsoflibertyriders.com Veterans First, Inc. Chapter 1 Richmond, VA- Non-profit org. whose mission is to assist our homeless veterans back into the mainstream of daily living. Meetings are held every 2nd Sunday of the month at 12:00 pm, Lakeside Moose Lodge, 1207 Hilliard Road, Richmond, VA 804 -321-2905 www.veteransfirstinc.org

Virginia Freedom Riders - Riders Against Constitutional Erosion (VFR-R.A.C.E.) exists as a grassroots State Motorcycle Rights Organization (SMRO) dedicated to protecting and restoring motorcyclists personal freedoms, liberties and individual rights. email: [email protected]. Website:vfr-race.com

Warriors of Christ Motorcycle Ministry. 4218 Old Hundred Rd. Chester, VA. 23831. Pastor Ron Walton – Phone (804) 335-5025. Meets every Sunday @6pm and Tuesday @7pm. Visit us on Facebook - www.facebook.com/warriors of christ

[email protected]

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Tech TipsEFI 101

Electronic fuel injection, and modern engine management seems to confuse many riders, and in some cases, it down right frightens them. Most don’t fully understand carburetors, and how they function, but are more comfortable with them than EFI. There is really no reason for this. Modern engine management is a big step forward, and provides us the best performance, best mileage, and reduced emissions - having our cake, and eating it too. Yes, I have watched bikes transition from carburetors, to fuel injection, and on to more modern engine management over the decades, and learned how these systems operate, as well as how to get the most from them. But none of this is exactly rocket science, and anyone with basic intelligence can understand engine management as well. Let’s look at what engine management systems are, and how they operate on a basic level.

In simple terms, modern engine management systems are fairly stupid computers. Most systems used on bikes today, are neither as fast, nor have as much memory, as modern laptops. In order to keep costs down, the engine control unit (ECU) is kept as simple as possible. Compared to the unit in most cars, bike ECUs are downright morons. They use very simple coding to take input from sensors, and control other parts - what to do, when to do it, and for how long.

The coding is limited by the speed of the ECU processor, how many sensors are connected, how often each must be read, and how many parts the ECU must turn on and off.

Basic EFI uses a toothed wheel on the crankshaft or rotor, and a sensor on the case next to it to determine engine speed (RPM). The number of teeth on the wheel, and its diameter, determine the resolution - how detailed the engine speed data can be. This is reported back to the ECU in pulses as each tooth goes by the sensor or trigger. A break or gap in the teeth lets the ECU know when the engine is at top dead center (TDC).

Since each cylinder turns two revolutions to complete one full cycle on a four-stroke engine, the ECU needs to know when each cycle is complete. This is usually done in two different ways. One way is to put a small wheel or tooth on a camshaft. Since the cams rotate at half engine speed, one revolution of the cam means that the cycle is complete. Another way to do this is to use a manifold air pressure (MAP) sensor to detect the intake pulses when the intake valve(s) open. Either way simply tells the ECU to start the tooth count over, and start a new cycle.

Next we need fuel injectors. These are simply valves that use an electro-magnet to open and close. When the ECU sends electricity to the injector it stays open. How long it is open depends on the code in the ECU. When more fuel is required, the injector stays open longer, and more fuel flows into the intake to be mixed with air.

Now, we need ignition coils. These are just copper windings, inside of different copper windings, with a magnet in the middle. The magnet causes induction from one coil into the other, and this amplifies the voltage and current from 12 volts to very high outputs. The coil is fed a constant voltage that builds up in the coil. The amount of time this voltage is allowed to build up is called the dwell time. When the ECU sends a ground signal, the coil releases its energy to the spark plug. How long the coil charges and when it releases energy, is controlled by the code in the ECU.

The main fueling and ignition timing code in the ECU is set up in tables that use input from engine rpm, and either the throttle position or the manifold air pres-sure in different look-up tables.

Since the world is an ever-changing place, we ride in many different conditions regularly. As a result, the ECU needs to know what changes are taking place. This means it needs to know the throttle position, intake air temps, manifold air pressure, barometric air pressure, engine temperature, gear, residual oxygen in the exhaust, and more. Each of these sensors simply report back to the ECU with a voltage amount that is used to let the ECU know what is happening. From these sensors, the ECU decides if the air is denser or less dense, and how much fuel and ignition advance is required. Each sensor has a table in the ECU that is used to offset the main fueling and ignition tables and make changes on the fly.

Next, we add in idle speed servos, radiator fans, and a few other devices that the ECU needs to switch on and off every so often based on input from different sensors. See... nothing too confusing, right.

The confusing part comes from getting everything right. Each manufacturer has someone (or a group of someones) called a calibrator. This person’s job is to modify the code in all of the different tables in the ECU to make the engine run, and meet emission laws for exhaust and noise output. Each table in the ECU must be mapped out to get the best results. This is like drawing a map that tells the ECU what to do when the voltage from one sensor does different things. The final code in the ECU, with maps for each table, is called a calibration.

Now, the manufacturer and calibrator are forced to make the engine management system meet certain guidelines and regulations. And the engine must do this over a wide variety of altitudes, temperatures, fuel blends, and uses. As a result, the final calibration may not always give the best performance, response, mileage, etc., that the engine is capable of having. And since mass produced sensors, injectors, coils, etc. all tend to vary a bit (sometimes more than just a bit), and each engine has slightly different clearances and tolerances, using the same calibration in every bike of the same make and model, can mean quite a bit less than optimum operation.

And once you buy a bike, many owners like to customize it to look or sound differently, or get better performance. As a result, the stock calibration is even further from optimum. For many riders, the stock calibration is just fine. Yet other bikes, just don’t operate well with the exact same calibration. For others - espe-cially those who change intake and exhaust components, or modify the engine even further from stock - the stock calibration just doesn’t work at all.

This is where the aftermarket steps in. A dynamometer (dyno for short) is used to load the engine, measure output, and determine a few other things that can tell us how far from optimum the calibration is. As well as indicating how to improve it throughout the entire operating range. Changing the calibration is called mapping or tuning. By altering this calibration in different ways, we can get improved mileage, smooth operation, crisp response, and improved output. All we have to do is give the engine what it wants. It is finding what the engine wants that takes time, effort, and experience.

While this is over-simplified, I hope it gives the basics of how engine management and EFI operate. If nothing else, I hope it informs more than it confuses, and takes some of the fear out of the whole subject.

Next month, we will go into a few more details of mapping with different tuning solutions, as well as why you may need it, and why you may not. For now, it is time to go burn some fuel of my own.

By Wayne TrippPower-Tripp Performance, Inc.www.power-tripp.com

Fraternal Order of Eagles

Poker Run for

Alzheimer’s Research

Saturday, October 8, 2011

First Bike Out at 9:00 A.M. (1061 Newtown Road, Va. Beach,

across from new Williams Elementary School)

Pig Roast to Follow Event with DJ

Raffles and Prizes

Riders $10.00

Passengers $5.00

Registration 7:30 – 9:00 A.M.

More information:

Contact:

Shelley Crook: 757-373-4811 OR Bill Crook: 757-407-3903

When you call an 800 number (for a credit card, banking, insurance, computer help desk, etc) and you find that you’re talking to a foreign customer service representative (located in another country such as India , Philippines, etc), and have trouble understanding them, ask to be transferred to a customer service representative in the United States. . Even if the rep suggests that you talk to his/her manager, ask to speak to a customer service representative in the USA. In many cases, you will be connected to a rep in the U.S.. Although the practice is not yet legislatively mandated, some U.S. companies have established policies and procedures of their own that instruct foreign call center operators to transfer calls back to U.S. based reps upon customer request.


Curtis & Leroy saw an ad in the Starkville Daily News Newspaper in Starkville, MS. and bought a mule for $100. The farmer agreed to deliver the mule the next day. The next morning the farmer drove up and said, “Sorry, fellows, I have some bad news, the mule just up and died last night.” Curtis & Leroy replied, “well, then just give us our money back.” The farmer said, “Can’t do that. I went and spent it already.” They said, “O.K., then, just bring us the dead mule.” The farmer asked, “What in the world y’all gonna’ do with a dead mule?” Curtis said, “We gonna’ raffle him off.” The farmer said, “You can’t raffle off a dead mule!” Leroy said, “We shore can! Heck, we don’t hafta’ tell nobody he’s dead!”A couple of weeks later, the farmer ran into Curtis & Leroy at the Piggly Wiggly grocery store and asked. “What’d you fellers ever do with that dead mule?” They said, “We raffled him off like we said we wuz gonna’ do..” Leroy said, “Shucks, we sold 500 tickets fer two dollars apiece and made a profit of $898.” The farmer said, “My Lord, didn’t anyone complain?” Curtis said, “Well, the feller who won got upset. So we gave him his two dollars back.” Note* Curtis and Leroy now work for the government.

A blonde decides to try horseback riding, even though she has had no lessons, nor prior experience. She mounts the horse unassisted, and the horse immediately springs into motion. It gallops along at a steady and rhythmic pace, but the blonde begins to slide from the saddle. In terror, she grabs for the horse’s mane, but cannot seem to get a firm grip. She tries to throw her arms around the horse’s neck, but she slides down the horse’s side anyway. The horse gallops along, seemingly impervious to its’ slipping rider. Finally, giving up her frail grip, the blonde attempts to leap away from the horse and throw herself to safety. Unfortunately, her foot has become entangled in the stirrup, she is now at the mercy of the horse’s pounding hooves as her head is struck against the ground over and over.As her head is battered against the ground, she is mere moments away from unconsciousness when to her great fortune, a biker named “Panhead Phil”, sees her dilemma and unplugs the horse. Thank God for Bikers.

Boudreaux was out in da field talkin’ wit his friend Thibodeaux. Thibodeaux said, “Boudreaux , you see dat ole barn out dere? Well man, its completely infestered wit’ rats. I tried everything I know an’ can’t get rid of dem.” Boudreaux say, “Thibodeaux, I know zactly how to get rid of dem rats. You gotta get you

one of dem bull constriptors.”Thibodeaux say, “Whats a bull constriptor?”Boudreaux explains, “ Man. Dats one of dem big ole snakes and he loves to eat rats and swallers dem whole, all at once.” Well, da nex’ day Thibodeaux went down to Kliberts reptile farm and bought him da biggest bull constripter dat dey got. He brought dat snake to da barn an let him loose right in da middle and just sat dere and watched. Well, Thibodeaux was watchin’ for a long time, I mean long, an dere wasn’t nuttin’ happenin’. Dat big o le snake jus curled up hiself in da middle of dat barn and slept all day. He didn’t even move and dem rats jus run all around. Thibodeaux got real frustrated and he called up Boudreaux on da phone, “Bou-dreaux, man dats some bad advice bout dat snake. Dem rats play all day long. “Boudreaux say,”Man,Thibodeaux, I know just what to do. Give dat snake some Viagra. “Thibodeaux say, “What! Viagra! What’s dat gonna do?” Boudreaux say, “I was just listening to da radio and de man say dat Viagra is da best t’ing to use for a reptile dysfunction.”

Two great white sharks swimming in the ocean spied survivors of a sunken ship .”Follow me son” the father shark said to the son shark and they swam to the mass of people.“First we swim around them a few times with just the tip of our fins showing.” And they did. “Well done, son! Now we swim around them a few times with all of our fins showing.” And they did. “Now we eat everybody.” And they did. When they were both gorged, the son asked, “Dad, why didn’t we just eat them all at first? Why did we swim around and around them?” His wise father replied, “Because son, they just taste better after you scare the shit out of them.

A man goes into his local book boutique and asks the young lady at the service counter . “Do you have the new book out for men with short penises? I can’t remember the title”. She replies, “I’m not sure if it’s in yet.” The man said, “That’s the one.....I’ll take a copy.”

Judge Judy to Prostitute: “Don’t piss on my leg and tell me it’s raining.....now, exactly when did you realize you were raped?” Prostitute (wiping away tears and sobbing): “When the check bounced.”


The Official Newsletter of Virginia’s First Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization www.abateva.org

Any Biker Friendly Business that offers a 10% discount to ABATE of VA members, will get a free business card size ad in every Freewheelin’ issue.

GOOD FOR YOUPeanut Butter

Misconception: This creamy spread is an indulgence best enjoyed occasionally because it’s high in fat and calories.

Why It’s Good For You: Major studies confirm that eating peanuts can lower risk for coronary heart disease. Eat-ing peanut butter or peanuts has been associated with lower total cholesterol, lower ldl or ‘bad’ cholesterol, and lower triglycerides, all of which are associated with lower cardiovascular dis-ease risk. These health benefits seem to occur without promoting weight gain. Participants in one study re-ported that peanut butter or peanuts were much more filling snacks than rice cakes or pickles and tamed hunger for a much longer period.

Freewheeling

Placing an ad with us?Listing your event in our calendar?Don’t forget that our deadline is the 15th of every month for the following month’s issue-don’t be left behind!

DEADLINE!


White Trash Repairs –White Trash Repairs is your one stop shop for some good ole, git r’ done ingenuity. See more of these ingenious ideas at www.whitetrashrepairs.com

Poor Choice of Tape: The submitter wrote: “This window AC unit was installed using plastic sheeting, plywood, and blue painters tape. Con-sidering the apartment complex is in Washington State, where it rains ALOT, painters tape isn’t the best choice…”

The Vanagain-andagainandagain!: The submitter wrote: “Remember you can’t drive your house but you can live in this van!”

Hindged: Well nothing like trying to hide the repair. From the looks of things this is not the first attempt to fix it.

Bumper in a Bind: The submitter wrote: “apparently duct tape and binder twine really does fix everything.” Yep!

Cone Crapper: Well that is one way to funnel it down the drain. I’m guessing that bathroom can get pretty smelly. I guess there is no flushing here.



Enjoy a friendly and helpful ALL BIKES atmosphere.We cater to anybody who chooses to enjoy the open road.

SERVICE PARTS ACCESSORIES

www.cyclethunder.com3110 West Leigh St Richmond VA

804-276-4982

Parking lot Party, Oct. 8-2011

FlyersBusiness cards

Banners, Signs & More

Post Cards

Biker FriendlyFlyers

Business Cards

Banners, Signs & More

Post Cards

Biker Friendly

www.iwillprint4you.com

[email protected]


K.I.S.S. page composed & edited by: Toni McCoy Shearon of Tennessee

MOZZARELLA STUFFED MEATBALLS ON THE GRILLButter Flavored or Olive Oil Cooking Spray1 Bag of Italian-Style Meatballs (quality, & thawed)Dry Ingredients: (bottle style works great, but if you’re a stickler for fresh herbs, have at it.)1/2 tsp. Oregano1/2 tsp. Basil1/2 tsp. Italian Seasoning1/2 tsp. Parsley1/2 tsp. Chives1/4 tsp. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes1/2 Cup of Worcestershire Sauce1/4 Cup of Liquid Smoke24 Small Cubes of Fresh Mozzarella Salt & Pepper to TastePlace all your frozen meatballs in a bowl and allowthem to thaw thoroughly (apprx. 3 hours). Mix all your dry ingre-dients together in a small bowl. Get your electric grill (or charcoal; your pref.) going on medium and well heated up. Next, take each meatball and press your finger well into it, but not through it, and put one small cube of fresh Mozzarella cheese pushed to the center of meatball, and then gently keep pulling meat to bring it back together as a ball. Pour your Worcestershire Sauce & Liquid Smoke combined, all over your meatballs in the big bowl and make sure each is wet. Take dry hands and a big pinch at a time, place combined herb mixture in your hands and rub together over the meatballs. This helps wake up the flavor of dry spices. Each time you sprinkle herbs on meatballs, get in there with your hanbds and move the meatballs around until all are well coated with spices. Spray grill with butter spray or Olive Oil spray (your pref) and gently place meatballs on grill. You’ll have to watch carefully and keep turning. Have a big bowl shaped piece of aluminum foil on other side of grill and after you’ve obtained the greal grill marks, transfer meatballs to foil, turn heat way down and just lket them continue to cook on grill. The second you see any cheese oozing out of any single one...they’re done. Heat up a jar of chunky spaghetti sauce as a dip. These are fun to make and taste phenom.!!!

WARMED POTATO, BACON & SUN-DRIED TOMATOES SALAD 2 Lbs. of Small, Red Potatoes - Leave skins on and quarter them into bite-size pieces Place on stove to over medium heat to got tender, but not mushy. Drain, place in a bowl, sprinkle your bacon pieces all over so potatoes can absorb the flavor, and cover with foil while you make dressing,Dressing: Combine Thoroughly1 Tbl. Chives (fresh or dry)1 Tbl. of Top-Quality Olive Oil1 Tbl. Melted Butter1 Tbl. Sugar or SplendaJuice from one Lime and Zest also1 Cup Quality Mayo1/2 of A Bottle of Sun-Dried Tomatoes- chopped (in any grocery store in canned toms. aisle)1/2 Cup of Buttermilk 1/2 tsp. Sweet Paprika1/4 Cup of Grey Poupon (have you any?)1/2 Lb. of Bacon, fried crisp and chopped into big pieces. 1 tsp. Apple Cider Vinegar (when all mixed up if want to add more, than do) * Remember..you can always add more but it’s tough to take back, in the world of cooking. Mix your dressing up well. I just dump all the ingredients into a canning jar and then shake it up really good. Pour your dressing all over warmed potatoes with ba-con, and toss gently with a wooden spoon and serve warm. This has the most incredible tastes and serving it warm just enhances those flavors. Ya’ gotta try this one!

GRILL ROASTED PEACHES, PEARS, APPLES, PINEAPPLES & MANGOYou truly owe it to yourself to at least “try” fruit offthe grill. It takes on such a smoky, unique flavor. You can buy just about any fruit out there, pre-cut and ready for the grill. But peaches, pears, apples, mango, melon, pineapple, panko-dipped bananas. SUGGESTED DRIZZLES: Warm Honey or Maple SyrupSoftened Quality “Homestyle” Vanilla Ice-CreamHeavy Cream Whipped Up To Be Frothy & LightWarm Ranch-Bacon Dressing w/ Honey AddedReduced Down Sweet Balsamic DressingIce-Cold Blue Cheese Dressing (great contrast to the super hot, grilled fruit) Get Creative!


It’s important for you to know who your friends are out there when you hit the road! Welcome to our Biker Friendly Directory. The following is a

list of establishments throughout the Mid-Atlantic that want you to know that they’re here for YOU.

Whether it’s a bike dealer, service shop, restaurant, bar or any other type of business that welcomes

our biking community through their doors, you can count on our family of friends to always welcome

you in. ALL of our regular advertisers can be found, in bold, throughout this listing. All of our

friends listed are “Biker Friendly” & most of them ride too, so they know exactly what you want & need. The staff here at Thunder Roads greatly

appreciates of all of our advertiser’s continuous support each month - they are the sole financial supporters of this magazine. WE WOULD NOT

EXIST WITHOUT THEM! So please give them the support that they truly deserve for being with us & drop by to see them for a visit. Let them know that you saw them here in Thunder Roads. If you know of a business that would like to join our Thunder

Roads family of Biker Friendly Places, please give us a call (757) 831-2264 or email kelly@

thunderroads-virginia.com “Where There’s Bikes….There’s Going To Be Thunder -

THUNDER ROADS”* Pick up your FREE copy of Thunder Roads at these

locations

DEALERS, PARTS & SERVICE

Delaware

Harley-Davidson of Seaford*_22586 Sussex Hwy.Seaford, Del. 19973

302-629-6161www.hdofseaford.com

also on Facebook

Maryland

All American Harley-Davidson * 8126 Leonardtown Rd.Hughesville, MD 20637

(888) 833-2REVwww.allamericanh-d.com

Harley-Davidson of Washington, DC *9407 Livingston Rd.Ft. Washington, MD

(888) HDFEVERwww.hdwash.com

Virginia

Absolut Cycle Worx *5016 Midlothian TpkeRichmond, VA 23224

(804) 497-7000

ABW Designs *Andrew Walker

340 East Broadway AveHopewell, VA 23860

(804) [email protected]

www.abwdesigns.us

ASX Motorcycle Parts *17200 Hull St. Rd.

(5.5 mi West of Rt. 288)Moseley, VA 23120

(804) 639-1555

Big Daddyz Cycles *2810 Geo. Wash. Mem. Hwy.

Hayes, VA 23072 (In Gloucester County)

(4 miles over the Coleman)804-642-3436 fax# [email protected]

www.bigdaddyzcycles.com

Cycle Thunder *3110 West Leigh StreetRichmond, VA 23230

(804) 822-5447 or (804) 276-4982www.cyclethunder.com

Dennis’ Truck & Trailer Repair, Inc. *309 Maury

Richmond, VA 23224Phone: (804) 230-7905

Fax: (804) 232-1302

Departure Bike Works *5216 Hull St

Richmond, VA 23224(804) 231-0244

www.departure.com

Foley Motorsports *8151 Mechanicsville Turnpike

Mechanicsville, VA 23111(804) 559-4282 or

fax: (804) [email protected]

Gary’s Automotive Again *23220 Airport Street

Petersburg, VA 23803(804) 733-8644

Grove’s Winchester Harley-Davidson *

140 Independence Drive Winchester, VA 22602

(800) 777-4275 or (540) 667-5655 www.hdwinchester.com

Jim McClure’s*Master Performance Cycles

3707 Rochambeau Dr.Williamsburg, VA 23188


Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson*6450 George Washington

Memorial HwyYorktown, VA(757) 872-7223www.hrhd.com

Outlanders *4768 US Highway 211 West

Luray, VA 22835(540) 743-2040

www.outlanders.wsemail: [email protected]

Patriot Harley-Davidson *9739 Fairfax Blvd

Fairfax, VA(703) 352-5400

www.patriothd.com

Pro Street Cycles *8075 Jefferson Davis Hwy

Richmond, VA 23237(804) 271-7766

(804) 271-7785 – Fax

Revolutionary Harley-Davidson *1915 Pocahontas Trail Unit F-5

Williamsburg, VA 23185(757) 565-5122www.hrhd.com

Richmond Harley-Davidson *10441 Washington Highway

Glen Allen, VA(804) 550-9280

www.richmondharley.com

Scooters*6906-B School Ave.Richmond, Va 23228

804-321-0037

Shenandoah Harley-Davidson*213 Rolling Thunder Lane

Staunton, VA(540) 213-7433

www.shenhd.com

Southside Harley-Davidson, Inc. *385 North Witchduck Rd

Virginia Beach, VA (757) 499-8964www.hrhd.com

Thunder Road Harley-Davidson *4960 Riverside Drive

Danville, VA 24541-5630(434) 822-BIKE (2453)

www.thunderroadhd.com

Waugh Enterprises Harley-Davidson* 385 Waugh Blvd

Orange, VA 22960 800-88-WAUGH

http://www.waughhd.com

AIRBRUSHING & PAINT

Lloyd’s Airbrush & DesignSteven Lloyd


SEATS

Wolfman’s Auto & Cycle Seats *Ed Wolford

(540) 320-9978www.HOT-ROD-INTERIORS.com

LEGAL SERVICES

Epstein, Sandler & Flora P.C.*413 W. York StreetNorfolk, VA 236101-800-9-THE-LAW

Tom McGrath’s Motorcycle Law Group*

The Firm That RidesDedicated to protecting the rights

of injured motorcyclists1-800-321-8968

www.motorcyclelawgroup.com

BIKER ACCESSORIES, APPAREL, LEATHERS & GIFTS

Virginia

Big Daddy Leather*1900 Princess Anne StreetFredericksburg, VA 22401

(540) 899-0048www.bigdaddyleather.com

Biker’s Depot*612 Nevan Rd Suite 108 Hilltop

Virginia Beach, VA (757) 962-0159

www.thebikersdepot.com

Cavelli’s Inc*3514 Oaklawn BlvdHopewell, VA 23860

(804) 458-2016

Fast Lane Biker Gear & Accessories * 166 S. Rosemont Rd. Ste. G

Virginia Beach, VA 23452(757) 340-4446

Harley-Haven*1920 Atlantic AveVirginia Beach, VA

(757) 425-2458www.hrhd.com

Tidewater Motorcycles, Inc.*4324 Godwin BlvdSuffolk, VA 23434(757) 255-4200

www.tidewatermotorcycles.net

WTF Leather Crafter *Seats, Sewing, Patches, Leather work

612 Nevan Rd, Suite 108 HilltopVirginia Beach, VA

(757) 962-0159

INSURANCE

GEICO Powersports*Motorcycle, ATV, RV, Watercraft

1-800-44-CYCLE (442-9253)www.geico.com

BARS & RESTAURANTS

North Carolina

Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge,*

Sports Center & Marina169 Walnut Island Blvd

Grandy, NC 27939(252) 453-4153

www.walnutisland.comwww.outerbanksbikeshow.com

* Pick up your FREE copy of Thunder Roads at these locations

Thunder Roads Is Brought To You Each Month By The Following Biker Friendly BusinessesBIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY


Virginia

Alley Café & Sports Lounge688 N Main St

Kilmarnock, VA 22482(804) 436-1100

Awful Arthur’s Restaurant & Raw Bar *

6078 Mechanicsville Tpke, Suite 6Mechanicsville, VA 23111

(804) 559-4370

Boneshakers Sports Bar and Grill*

1297 General Booth BlvdVirginia Beach, VA 23451

(757) 502-4918www.boneshakersvb.com

Clutch Bar & Grill*1485 General Booth Blvd (Behind Hooters)

Virginia Beach, VA 23452(757) 491-2229

www.clutchbarandgrill.comemail: [email protected]

Damon & Company Sports Bar & Grill *7104 George Washington Mem. Hwy, Rt 17 North

Gloucester, VA (804) 693-7218 www.damonsbar.com

Goochland Restaurant *2966 River Rd West

Goochland, VA 23063(804) 556-9990

Grumpy’s Bar & Grill* 995 Kempsville Rd.

Virginia beach, VA 23464

Gulliver’s Cross Flight Restaurant*11931 Centre StreetChester, VA 23831

(804) 796-3259www.gulliverscrossflites.com

HOOTERS Richmond – West Broad *

7912 West Broad Street(804) 270-WING

Padow’s Hams and Deli“A Tradition of Taste since 1934”

8161 Atlee RoadMechanicsville, VA 23111

[email protected]

Quaker Steak and Lube*www.thelube.com

3 Locations12832 Jefferson Ave.*

Newport News, VA(757) 874-LUBE (5823)

&8000 Broad St.*Richmond, VA

(804) 217-WING&

1300 Central Park Blvd*Fredericksburg, VA

(540) 786-4688

Steel Horse Bar and Grill *1920 W. Hundred Rd.

(1/2 mile east of I-95 on Rt. 10)Chester, VA 23836

(804) 706-6600www.steelhorseva.com

The Blue Heron Restaurant *9100 Wilcocx Neck RoadCharles City, VA 23030

(804) 829-9070www.riversrest.com

The Ville (Formerly Scooters) *7526 Mechanicsville TpkeMechanicsville, VA 23111

(804) 730-8888

TO-DO-CAFÉ*1008 Church Lane

Tappahannock, VA 22560(804) 443-2002

CUSTOM SCREEN PRINTING & EMBROIDERY

PSDTEEZ(757) 595-5525

www.psdteez.com

KNIVES & TACTICAL EQUIPMENT

Blades & Barrels Contact us to be a vendor

at your [email protected]

(804) 243-6756

MOTORCYCLE RACES & EVENTS

Slades Park – Dirt Drag Racing1111 Mount Ray DriveSurry, Virginia 23883

Contact Joe Brookman(804) 221-3959 or fax (804) 737-0616

MOTORCYCLE RENTALS

Shenandoah Harley-Davidson*213 Rolling Thunder Lane

Staunton, VA 24401(540) 213-8026

www.shenandoahhd.com

POWDER COATING

J & J Powder Coating*2424 Castleton Commerce Way, Suite 1101

Virginia Beach, VA. 23456 (757) 406-2922

* Pick up your FREE copy of Thunder Roads at these locations

BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORYFUN PLACES TO STAY

North Carolina

Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge,*Sports Center & Marina169 Walnut Island Blvd

Grandy, NC 27939(252) 453-4153

www.walnutisland.com www.Barrysbikerally.com

Comfort Inn Oceanfront South 8031 Old Oregon Inlet Road

Nags Head, NC(800) 334-3302

Kampers Lodge Campground*3465 Highway 301 N

Wilson, NC 27893(252) 237-0905

www.kamperslodge.com

Virginia

Outlanders River Camp*4253 US Hwy 211 West

Luray, VA (540) 743-5540

www.outlandersrivercamp.net

LIMOSINE SERVICES

Down Under Limosine(804) 784-4024

Serving Central Virginiawww.downunderlimosine.com

MOTORHOMES & RVs

Freedom R.V. Rentals & Sales11256 Old Telegraph Rd

Ashland, VA 23005(804) 798-3379

www.FreedomRV.com

PERSONAL SERVICES

Kuttin Station *For ALL your hair needs!

20820 Carson RdDinwiddie, VA 23841

Biker Specials!(804) 469-9003

SHOE, BOOT & LEATHER REPAIR

Dakota Cobbler’s Shoppe*7068 Longview Drive

Hayes, VA 23072(804) 642-4138

TOWING

Peaco Towing Inc.* 6906 School Ave.

Richmond, Va 23228804-262-1001

BIKER CHURCHES

Liberty Biker Church* 17011 Courthouse HwyIsle of Wight County, VA

Hang-around (social) time: 10 a.m. with free

donuts and coffee. Worship service: 11 a.m. with Christian

rock band Stronghold providing the church

music. Contact is Pastor Jim Manner,

(757) 376-3612. We hold services every Sunday & Blessing of the Bikes the 1st Sunday of each

month.

Rushing Wind Ministry29025 Three Notch Rd.

Mechanicsville, MD 20659Gordon Bacon, Preacher

(240) 577-0605 [email protected] service 10am-10:30am. Gathering

and fellowship with coffee and snacks. Wednesday Bible study 7pm-8:30 & Friday

night bike night 6:30pm-10pm

SIGNS * BANNERS * GRAPHICS

Wright Sign Service*8008 Hankins Industrial Park Rd

Toano, VA 23188phone (757) 566-8329 fax (757)

[email protected]


When yourdog is yourbest friend


Hot Plates


News BytesPRESIDENT OBAMA SIGNS REPEAL OF KIDS’ MOTORCYCLE BAN President Barack Obama signed a bipartisan consumer safety bill on August 12 that exempts youth-sized motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CP-SIA) of 2008 that bans children’s products that contain lead.H.R. 2715, introduced by U.S. Representatives Mary Bono Mack (R-CA) and G.K. Butterfield (D-NC), passed near-unanimously in the House 421-2 on Aug. 1 and was approved by unanimous consent by the Senate later that day. The measure excludes kids’ off-road vehicles from the overly-broad CPSIA lead certification rules, which previ-ously prohibited their sale due to lead content of compo-nents such as batteries and brakes. “This law is a win-win for American consumers and the American economy,” said Congresswoman Bono Mack, “and I thank the President for signing this critically important bill into law.” Be sure to con-tact your federal legislators and thank them for rectifying the onerous “Lead Law” bike ban, and for supporting the rights of millions of off-road enthusiasts and future motorcyclists.

ABATE OF MICHIGAN REQUESTS YOUR IMMEDIATE ACTION This urgent Call To Action is on behalf of ABATE of Michigan, requesting the help of all motorcyclists in their fight for freedom. “Senate Bill 291 passed the Michigan Senate in late June,” writes ABATE President Vince Consi-glio. “We are asking all rights activists to send a post card to Michigan’s Governor, Rick Snyder, urging him to sup-port motorcycle helmet choice for adults.” Consiglio further advises that; “A postcard from a ‘FREE’ state may help him realize that Michigan loses motorcycle money every day of the summer with a mandatory helmet law. Governor Sny-der prides himself on being all about business and helping business. Please urge Governor Snyder to support adult choice.” MAIL to: Governor Rick Snyder, State Capital, P.O. Box 30013, Lansing, MI 48909 or call (517) 373-3400 or e-mail [email protected]. Michigan is one of 20 states with a mandatory helmet law for all riders, but before the state legislature broke for the summer the Senate voted 24-14 on June 28th to repeal their 40-year old helmet requirement for motorcyclists 21 or older, who have been riding for at least two years or passes a safety test, and have $100,000 in personal injury insurance. A sunset provi-sion would cause the ban on helmetless riding to resume in five years, unless the legislature acts again. The heavily-amended measure now moves to the House of Representa-tives for further action.

NHTSA (AGAIN) PUSHES HELMET LAWSNHTSA Administrator David Strickland has testified once again before a Congressional committee urging federal action to get motorcyclists to wear helmets. On July 27, during a reauthorization hearing on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Strickland told a subcommit-tee of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation that “the most important step we can take to reduce the deaths of motorcyclists on our roads and

highways is to assure that all riders wear a DOT compliant helmet.” He further stated that, “A grant program empha-sizing the use of motorcycle helmets would be effective in reducing fatalities.” Last year, in response to Congressional testimony from Strickland that increased helmet use is the core component of NHTSA’s motorcycle safety plan, U.S. Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI) introduced a resolution urging NHTSA to concentrate on motorcycle crash preven-tion and rider education instead of lobbying for helmet laws.

U.S. MOTORCYCLE MARKET RESEARCHResearch and Markets, a worldwide marketing research resource, has announced the addition of the “Motorcycle Dealers” report to their offering of over 718,000 global mar-keting research reports, which covers nearly 4,300 motor-cycle-related stores in the United States with combined annual revenue of $18 billion. According to their industry research, no major companies dominate; most companies have a single retail outlet, “The industry is highly fragment-ed: the 50 largest companies generate just 10 percent of industry sales,” states the report. Under the “Competitive Landscape” heading, the R&M report says: “Discretionary personal income and interest rates drive demand, since mo-torcycles are high-ticket purchases and often financed. The profitability of individual companies depends on volume and sales of higher-margin goods like heavyweight motorcycles. Large dealers have advantages in broad inventory selec-tions and negotiating power with manufacturers. Small deal-ers can compete effectively by providing superior customer service or offering unique services, like bike customization.” The report further observes that, “Major competitors include private market sellers, other recreational vehicle dealers, service center chains, and independent service shops.”Other key topics include: Industry Overview, Business Challenges & Trends, Industry Forecast & Opportunities, and Products, Operations & Technology: For those in the motorcycle industry or starting a motorcycle business, or interested in better understanding the two-wheel market-place, check them out at www.researchandmarkets.com.R&M has also conducted numerous other motorcycle-ori-ented marketing reports, including a Global Industry Guide and a Global Motorcycle Report, which examines market conditions across Western Europe, North America as well as key emerging countries such as China and India.

NEW REPORT REVEALS THAT 1 IN 7 DRIVERS ARE UNINSURED Summer is the time for road trips, long motorcycle rides and making those back-and-forth trips to the playground and pool. Chances are drivers will not be involved in a vehicle accident during these travels, but everyone likely will be involved in at least one car accident in his or her lifetime. Across the United States, chances are roughly one in seven that a driver is uninsured, according to estimates released in April from the Insurance Research Council. The economic downturn is thought to be a major factor in the increase of uninsured motorists, with ap-proximately 13.8% of U.S. drivers being uninsured in 2009


News Bytesdespite laws in most states requiring drivers to maintain minimum coverage. In a new study, “Uninsured Motorists, 2011 edition,” the IRC estimates the percentage of unin-sured drivers countrywide and in individual states for 2008 and 2009 based on the number of uninsured motorist insur-ance claims versus the number of bodily injury claims.In 2009, the five states with the highest uninsured driver estimates were Mississippi, 28%; New Mexico, 26%; Ten-nessee, 24%; Oklahoma, 24%; and Florida, 24%. The five states with the lowest uninsured driver estimates were Mas-sachusetts, 4.5%; Maine, 4.5%; New York, 5%; Pennsylva-nia, 7%; and Vermont, 7%.

SAFEST STATES TO RIDEAccording to a statistical analysis from TheStreet.com finan-cial website, the safest state to ride in is North Dakota, with a fatality rate nearly a third the national average, low levels of congestion and high quality road surfaces. In an article “The Safest States for Motorcycles” in the August 1st Busi-ness Section, writer Greg Emerson points out that, “The truth is that motorcycle riding is up. Way up. Between 1996 and 2005, motorcycle registrations increased 61% while ve-hicle miles traveled of motorcycles grew only 8.6%, accord-ing to the Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration. That means a lot of new riders, riding not very far or not very often.” In an effort to “help keep all those weekend warriors looking to get on a bike and go riding from losing their heads, we looked at the most recent fatal-ity data -- from 2009 -- to determine which states were the safest for the aspiring Evel Knievels among us. We ranked all 50 states and the District of Columbia to see which ones had the smallest proportion of motorcycle deaths as a pro-portion of total traffic deaths.” Half of the states fall below the national average of 15.4%, and half above. Here are the 10 states with the lowest ratio of rider fatalities:Tenth-safest: Vermont - Motorcyclist fatalities: 68; Propor-tion of total vehicle deaths: 11.8%Eighth-safest (tie): Virginia - Motorcyclist fatalities: 671; Proportion of total vehicle deaths: 11.5%Eighth-safest (tie): Kentucky - Motorcyclist fatalities: 745; Proportion of total vehicle deaths: 11.5%Seventh-safest: Missouri - Motorcyclist fatalities: 806; Pro-portion of total vehicle deaths: 10.8%Sixth-safest: Wyoming - Motorcyclist fatalities: 129; Propor-tion of total vehicle deaths: 10.1%Fifth-safest: Alabama - Motorcyclist fatalities: 776; Propor-tion of total vehicle deaths: 9.8%Fourth-safest: West Virginia - Motorcyclist fatalities: 334; Proportion of total vehicle deaths: 7.5%Third-safest: Mississippi - Motorcyclist fatalities: 632; Pro-portion of total vehicle deaths: 7.4%Second-safest: Nebraska - Motorcyclist fatalities: 211; Pro-portion of total vehicle deaths: 7.1%Safest: North Dakota - Motorcyclist fatalities: 135; Propor-tion of total vehicle deaths: 5.2%

HELMET AND ACCOUSTICS RESEARCH COULD QUIET THE RIDEAfter accelerating, most of the sound that a rider can hear isn’t from the bike engine or other vehicles on the road, but from the air rushing over and around their helmet. Noise levels inside a helmet can reach rock-concert levels when traveling at highway speeds, and a group of engineers and psychologists from two U.K. universities have gathered to study how to minimize helmet noise to protect riders from hearing damage and reduce the potential distraction that noise poses to riders. Their research paper, which has been accepted for publication by The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, says that riders experience noise from multiple sources. First is the engine noise, which is a rela-tively insignificant factor once riders accelerate to highway speeds. Audible wind noise can reach volumes as high as 115 decibels or more, roughly equivalent to what power saw operators without ear protection would hear. OSHA recom-mends limiting such exposure to 15 minutes or less per day. Turbulent air buffeting off the motorcycle windshield is another source of noise, as is air rushing around the chin bar of the helmet. There’s another type of sound experi-enced by riders, called body conducted sound. Aboard a motorcycle, this process transmits engine vibrations and the percussive force of the wind through the flesh and bone to the ear. Earplugs don’t stop it, and it can be significant. Another topic under investigation by the Bath group is how sound impacts attention, and one experiment measured how different volumes of sound impaired a test subject’s peripheral vision. While riders and others recognize that noise can be a serious health issue, many U.S. jurisdictions prohibit the use of earplugs or other noise-reducing devic-es. One long road trip could take a rider through numerous changes in local laws.

NIGERIA BANS MOTORCYCLES IN TERROR-STRUCK CITYOfficials in Maiduguri, Nigeria’s seventh largest city and capital of northeastern Borno State, has banned motorbikes in a bid to curb militant activities borne on the backs of these ubiquitous vehicles. Motorcycles and Okada (motor-cycle taxis) are the predominant mode of transportation in the mostly impoverished city, and members of the Motor-cycle Transport Union have protested the ban on their liveli-hood, but the Borno State government is desperate to crack down on Boko Haram, an extremely orthodox Islamist sect that is seeking to overthrow the secular government in favor of a Muslim state. The terrorist group has become known for brazen public attacks conducted while riding motorbikes, and has killed at least 40 people including police officers and politicians in drive-by motorbike attacks.

QUOTABLE QUOTE: “Useless laws weaken the neces-sary laws.” -Charles de Montesquieu (1689-1755), French philosopher and political thinker


Tattoos Of The MonthTHUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 38

Happy September eveerybody! Fall is on the way and I have to be honest, I am glad. I has been so hot I am ready for a break. First I want to shout out to Kelly and Randy and say Happy 2 months. I had the honor of marrying these two lovebirds and it was a beautiful wedding. While we were waiting for the limo to arrive with the wedding party it had started raining hard and we all got under the little entrance into the Oriental Gardens. One of the men sharing the area with me, looked at me and said, “Would you please say a quick prayer to the Man Upstairs and ask Him to please stop the rain until the wedding is over? I’m sure you are on His better side more than I am.” I said “Sure” and then I looked up and said, “Lord, if you would stop the rain for the wedding I would sure appreciate it and then you can let it rain cats and dogs if You want to, Amen”

I looked at this man and winked and gave him “thumbs up”. About 1 or 2 minutes later the rain stopped. The man looked at me in amazement. I just stood there and acted like I knew that was going to happen but I was really thinking, “Wow Lord!”. As soon as the wedding was over and the wedding party started loading up the limo, the bottom dropped out and it really did rain cats and dogs!

What an awesome lesson in faith. Where has faith gone? We had a man named Robert to get healed from back pain in our church and when you tell people this, they either look at you like you have lost your mind or think you are telling a lie. Thats very sad. Look at the woman in Matthew 9:20-22 who had the issue of blood for 12 years. Come on now, we are all adults here, right? She probably had endometriosis, but back then it wasn’t named yet. She was considered unclean. Now you know for 12 years, she had to come out of her house sometime and I’m sure the town people got the heck away from her. She was considered discustingly nasty. But her faith is what kept her saying,”If I can just touch the hem if His garment, I will be made whole.”

She crawled on the ground so no one would notice her in the crowd. If they would see her, more than likely, they would never let her get to Jesus. So she crawled in the dust and dirt, being stepped on, getting dirt in her face and mouth. But her faith carried her through the crowd to the hem of Jesus’ garment. She did’nt even have to touch Him, for Him to know she was there. Just as soon as she touched it, Jesus looked down at her and said, “Woman, your faith has made you whole.” Man, thats what I call faith! So where did that kind of faith go?

You set your own story. If you don’t have faith, then your prayers will never happen. If you don’t believe in healing, then you will never see it happen. I have a friend waiting for the lab results to come in to tell him if he has leukemia. He has already told the children that his mother died with it and he would probably die of it too. He has spoken a bad word or curse over himself, even before he was ever diagnosed. The Bible says we should speak life and healing over ourselves and others. When ever I pray for a healing, I speak to the affected part and speak life, not death over it. I order the infection or alliment to be gone, in the Name of Jesus.

The Bible speaks two things about faith...to have it and to keep it! Remember, it only takes faith the size if a mustard seed to move a mountain. Do you know how tiny a mustard seed is?

God bless you all and remember, God loves you and so do I!

Pastor Tammy PS If you’ve never eaten at Grumpy’s, then you need to. The food there

is out of this world and the staff is wonderful!

Pastor Tammy Hayes preaches at New Creation in Christ Ministries in Dinwiddie, Virginia, a member of IPHC. She received a full ordination in non-denomination and is currently working on her ordination in Pentecostal Holiness. You can obtain information about the church on the website www.newcreationinchristministries.us

Connect with Us 1 (800) 525-LOVE (5683)Every day, God uses K-LOVE to make a difference in millions of lives. By providing positive music and inspirational stories, K-LOVE helps people draw closer to God. Unlike other radio stations, K-LOVE has a full time ministry team that processes over 100 phone calls a day of listeners in need of guidance. The pastors and staff at K-LOVE pray for over 1,000 prayer requests every day, and on average, intervene in one suicide case per day. If K-LOVE has impacted your life, it is because generous listeners stepped out on faith to support the ministry of K-LOVE. We ask that you also take that step of faith and enable us to continue making a positive difference in our world. “ Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. ” (Proverbs 13:20 NLT) Thunder Roads Virginia is a K-LOVE Business Team Member. Find a station-near you at www.klove.com


Great Places To RideAlleghany Highlands Driving RoutesEnjoy some of the most undisturbed, natural beauty this

area of the state has to offer by following scenic Route 39 up steep mountains and along deep gorges.

Begin with a leisurely walk through the hilly streets of Lexington, home to historic sites and universities. Start your drive west on Route 39 and head out of town. Before long you’ll come upon the Virginia Horse Center, a modern facility that operates year-round and hosts horse shows, auctions, festivals and educational clinics. It’s truly a horse lover’s haven that offers an opportunity to learn about an animal that has been domesticated since ancient times and that has a place in the history of practically every culture and country the world over.

From this point, as the elevation increases, you’ll come to Goshen Pass. Here you’ll find easy access to roadside pulloffs from where you might spot someone fishing or

enjoying a kayak ride. These are perfect spots for a picnic followed by some relaxation as you daydream to the sooth-ing sounds of the Maury River’s rippling waters.

As you continue, you’ll enter the George Washington National Forest, surrounded by natural beauty and a world at peace with itself.

Pretty soon, you’ve entered the town of Warm Springs. It got its name from the natural mineral springs that maintain a 98-degree temperature year round. In fact, you might just want to try a dip in the Warm Springs Pools – and there’s no need to ask anyone if the water’s cold.

As you continue on Route 39 toward the West Virginia border, you’ll pass the Hidden Valley Recreation Area and Blowing Springs Recreation Area, providing opportunities for camping, hiking and fishing.



Lock ItKeeping Your Bike 101, first day of class, lesson one: Lock it, or you just

might lose it. A determined, professional thief may get your motorcycle no matter what you do, but plenty of motorcycles are stolen by opportunistic miscreants.

Your fork lock is just a start. Adding a disc lock is better. But why stop there? Use a strong, motorcycle U-lock and a chain to attach your bike to a solid object, or another motorcycle. Looping the chain through the frame is better than draping it through the wheel, which can be removed.

Make the chain as tight as possible to offer less access for bolt-cutters, and don’t let it drape on the ground, where it can be chiseled. Put the locks in hard-to-reach spots—if it’s more work for you to put the lock on, it’s more work for a thief to get it off. Maybe he’ll move on to an easier target.

On some bikes, you can lock down the centerstand, so the motorcycle cannot be dropped off the stand and rolled or ridden away.

A lever lock on the clutch adds another layer of hassle for the thief, espe-cially if you leave the bike in gear, unbolt the shift lever and take it with you.

And remember that the same chain you use to secure your bike can also secure your gear. Run the chain through your helmet and jacket sleeve so you won’t have to carry them around all day.

Cover It No, a motorcycle cover won’t stop a determined thief. But it might mean

your bike attracts less of the wrong kind of attention. So after you’ve locked it, cover it.

A plain cover is best. After all, the purpose is not to advertise your loyalty to a particularly valuable brand of motorcycle, but to avoid letting thieves know what you’ve got. A cover with metal grommets can be locked in place to help keep prying eyes away, and to prevent the cover itself from being stolen.

Consider an Alarm An alarm in conjunction with a lock can be a difficult combination for a

thief, especially if the alarm is hidden. Cutting chains and removing locks is likely to set off the alarm, which could stop a theft attempt before it succeeds.

But what if your bike is parked where you can’t hear the alarm? What if you live where nobody pays attention to screaming vehicles any more because they’re always blaring false alarms?

Simple. Get an alarm with a pager that notifies you when someone tam-pers with your bike.

Some riders find that an alarm attached to a cover can be really effective. Lift the cover, and the noise starts.

Don’t Be a Show-Off Some people are so proud of their bikes that they park them in the front

yard for everyone to admire. That just makes it easier for thieves to case your ride. Always park your bike inside a garage if possible. Keep the door closed and consider covering the windows. If you must park outside, use a cover.It’s simple: The more your bike is out of sight, the more it’s out of a thief’s mind.

Reinforce Your GarageUse your lock and/or alarm in your garage, just the same as elsewhere.

But don’t stop there. Beef up your garage security as well.Don’t confuse a garage-door opener with a lock. A simple lock on the

frame inside the door will keep it from opening unless the thief seriously mangles it. And by then, he might have created enough noise to wake you up. Installing a U-bolt in the garage floor gives you an easy way to lock your bike. Want more protection? Consider a baby monitor. Put the monitor in your garage and the receiver in your bedroom, and you’re less likely to sleep through a theft attempt.

If you’re really serious, you can extend your home security system to include the garage. Some people even mount a closed-circuit video camera so they can check on their bikes from inside the house.

Lastly, use other vehicles as additional obstacles. Make the thief hoist your motorcycle over the car if he wants it that bad.

Disable Your BikeLocking your bike to something stops a thief from lifting it into a truck and

hauling it away, but you can also temporarily disable the motorcycle to keep someone from riding it away.

This can be as simple as removing the main fuse and dropping it into your pocket after you park. Some owners install hidden cut-out switches that dis-able the ignition. Just tap a secret switch onto the existing kill switch circuit. Got fuel injection? A switch that cuts power to the fuel pump will keep the engine from firing.

The key is to hide these anti-theft measures so that the thief runs out of patience and abandons the bike before finding them.

Choose Parking Spots CarefullyIn a parking lot, don’t park next to a panel truck, van or other vehicle that

can conceal thieves at work. For the same reason, try to choose a spot where thieves cannot intentionally use their stolen-bike transporter to block the view of your motorcycle.

On the road, ask the motel operator if you can park by the front door, within sight of an all-night desk clerk. When you can, pick a ground-floor room with a parking spot right outside the door.

We’ve heard of motel guests making a homemade alarm of sorts by perching a glass ash tray out of sight on top of the rear wheel. It’ll clatter to the asphalt if someone tampers with the motorcycle.

Be Wary of Test RidesSome thieves pose as buyers of used bikes. AMA member Bob Krus was

selling his off-road motorcycle a few years ago, and a potential buyer showed up after dark, on foot, claiming a friend had dropped him off at the corner.

The buyer took off on a test ride. When he didn’t come back, Krus chased him down. Krus got the bike back, but he only caught the guy because the “buyer” got lost on unfamiliar streets.

“Buyer beware” has always been good advice, but sellers should be careful, too. Instead of a test ride, some sellers get payment first and offer a money-back guarantee if the buyer brings the motorcycle back in the same condition within an hour. It’s a no-risk test ride for both sides.

If you let someone test-ride your bike, at least ask for identification. Take down the person’s drivers license number and the license plate number of the vehicle in which the person arrived, and gather any other information possible.

Mark Your TerritoryIf all else fails, and your bike is stolen, at least don’t make the thief’s job

easier. Professionals nab bikes so they can break them down into parts, obliterate the VIN numbers and resell them here or overseas. If the thieves get caught, you stand a better chance of getting your bike or parts back if you’ve marked them so police can identify them. Consider marking your drivers license number or other identification in hidden locations on key parts, such as the engine and frame.

In addition, make sure you can quickly put your hands on all the pertinent information about your bike, especially the VIN and license plate numbers. The more time that passes before police have this information, the less chance you have of recovering your motorcycle. Don’t leave documents, such as the registration, on the motorcycle, but have it handy. It also helps if you have a photograph of the bike so police know what they’re looking for.

LastlyAnd finally, make sure you have theft coverage on your bike and acces-

sories. Don’t assume your homeowners or renters insurance will cover a vehicle stolen where you live—it likely won’t.

Insurance won’t keep your bike from getting stolen, but at least it makes the aftermath a little less traumatic.

Following all of these ideas is no guarantee your motorcycle won’t be stolen, but it will greatly improve your odds.

Motorcycle Security


STURGIS AT 71 YEARSArticle By Terri “T” Collier, TRM OklahomaPics By Mark and Jessica

Oh Sturgis! The mecca, the pilgrimage, the mother lode, the crème de la crème, trailer week, the best damned biker rally in the entire world…call it what you’d like…it’s an extraor-dinarily fun time, super weather and gorgeous scenery! For 71 wonderful years, Sturgis, SD and the Black Hills area has hosted bikers from around the world to a week of riding, partying, shopping, buying, racing, sight-seeing and hanging out with friends old and new.

This year’s Sturgis Bike Week began about a week prior to the official advertised dates. Many people have begun traveling to Sturgis a week in advance to beat the large crowds. They’ve learned that, while all vendors may not be there yet, most of them are and ready to show their products. We arrived on the first Friday prior to the official date and the town of Sturgis was wide awake! No excuses made, we pulled the bikes this year and camped in our friends’ toy hauler at a wonderful camp right downtown on a hill overlooking Sturgis. Sturgis RV Park or Mt. Rodney, as it is also called, has a beautiful facility including a large bath house, bar, general store and even provided a bike wash area with everything anyone needed to

clean their bikes free of charge. It was wonder-ful.

On our first morning out we were headed to one of the many breakfast locations set up in each town to serve hundreds of people, raising funds for local charities and non-profit organi-zations. We learned throughout the week, that most of the funds used are to help the youth in the area. From church groups to FFA proj-ects, our good time is helping the local youth greatly. I met a local, John, serving breakfast who brought his vests which display patches from every one of the 71 years of Sturgis. He says when he passes, it will go to the Sturgis Museum. Wow…what an honor to put that vest on!

This first morning on bikes and putting down the hill towards town, also included a large snake making his way across the road. I have to admit that snakes are NOT my thing! I suddenly lost every bit of the “cool” I’d set out to display on this first day cruising Sturgis. Bike stopped, arms flailing about, screaming S-N-A-K-E does not make for a cool biker chick image! Perhaps that’s why the snake, as big as a truck with fangs as large as my bike itself, slowly slithered right on across the road and into the ditch never even noticing me and my pack following behind.

Back on our way, breakfasts in our bellies, we set out for a destination, Hulett, WY and Devil’s Tower, which we’d not been able to make the year before as we’d gone on “No Panties Wednesday” and the traffic was backed up for miles. We traveled out of Sturgis for about 40 miles til we hit a bump in the road called Alladdin. A cool little town has a popula-tion of 15. The old general store was packed with bikers enjoying cold beverages, shade and shopping. On to Hulett, we rolled right in to town, which was just waking up to Bike Week,

had a few cold drinks and rode right up to Devil’s Tower with no lines. This day’s ride was a beautiful loop along a fairly easy ride route.

Riding out East of Sturgis the following day towards The Chip, Full Throttle and Glencoe Camp, we had breakfast at the High School. Reviewing the map, (many are provided of the area, showing skill ratings on the routes) we were ready for some more curves and sights and chose a Southern route. My friend, Jessica, has a National Parks and Monuments Passport, which she has stamped wherever we go. On this day we set out to stamp Jewel Cave National Monument and Wind Cave National Park. We headed straight South out of Sturgis down Vanocker Canyon into a dot on the map called Nemo. “Finding Nemo” was fun through the high skill rated curves and turns, but there wasn’t a fish in sight in this little tiny town that was more of a campground and another general store than anything else. We enjoyed some ice cold cream sodas and jumped back on the road to more curves includ-ing some of most difficult level which would have been a blast had the slow codgers in front of me have cranked the throttle a little more. Out of there, we hit Hill City where we gassed and shot out for our next rest stop in Custer. What a great town. I love how we are always


greeted by a man costumed in cavalry attire waving a giant Custer flag welcoming the riders in. I’m especially fond of his tipping his hat to us lady riders. A good break at the Gold Pan Saloon and we were on the road South where we enjoyed a little hike and a jaunt through the buffalo and prairie dogs to reach the caves. About that time, we had our eyes peeled to the boiling clouds in the sky and the tornado warnings on the phone. That made it the best time to stop in Hot Springs for some dinner and wait out the passing afternoon hail, rain and high winds.

The following day, we did a little tour of the town of Sturgis. There isn’t one thing motor-cycle related that I couldn’t buy along Main or Lazelle Streets downtown. Not only can we buy almost anything, anyone, who is anyone in motorcycling, is in attendance with their large show trucks and displays. I swung by Baker Transmission for a little adjustment which they were able to do right there on the spot in minutes. We weren’t able to see everything on the first day of roaming and shopping, but did finish up on the day before we left. One very fun thing that I did, was the Harley-Davidson Simulated Drag Race. They set up two bikes side by side, run out a light tree and off we go, tearing thru gears and revving motors in neck to neck competition. The winner gets a certifi-cate and an entry into the World Championship which gets you a chance to win a trip to Harely-Davidson in Milwaukee. I only missed winning the certificate by .06 of a second! Dang it.

The real fun on this day came when we Thunder Roads Magazine Editors, referred to as “Thunder Heads” by our founder, Toni, all met up at Full Throttle Saloon. We had been asked to join the Full Throttle Owner, Michael Ballard, there for a shot on the next season’s tv show. We had about 50 Thunder Roads Maga-zine editors, ad reps, friends, family and read-ers meet up at the school bus bar and wait for Michael as instructed. I shot out a text to his phone letting him know we had arrived. I then shot another a few minutes later since I’d not heard from him. I had asked a bartender to let him know we were in the house as well, as he’d instructed. Many minutes later, still no Michael. Getting impatient, I then searched out the cam-era crew to let them know we were there. They brought the cameras over and set up at one point and we just knew that Michael must be on his way. Low and behold, time passed, many unreturned texts and calls were made, the cameras moved over to shoot the more than hilarious midget boxing and wrestling, but still no Michael. After a few hours and plenty to see and do in Full Throttle, our discouraged Thun-der Heads began to trickle away and we joined

the rest of the partiers at the Throttle. Knowing this isn’t how Michael is, Mama Thunder shot an email to him. He returned a call to her a few days later to let her know that his phone had dropped in a beer trough and therefore he didn’t receive our messages to join us. He was very apologetic and offered for us to come back out, but by then we had all taken off for home. We did appreciate his offer of hospitality and hope to do more with him in the future. His place is more fun than a barrel of monkeys and has more things to see and do than you could ever imagine. From drinking to burnouts, to dancing to zipline, to concerts to bull riding, it’s all there in one gigantic outdoor bar/mini-own environment. We had an absolute blast while there!

The morning sun rose quickly the next day as we popped off to Deadwood to meet up with the group from Big Dog Biker forum. I ride a Big Dog Chopper and am on a forum on-line, www.bigdogbiker.com in which Big Dog Motorcycle enthusiasts all chat, work on bikes and gain friendships and riding buddies. This was the 5th year in which the forum men and women had met up to ride down hwy 385 to Hill City where we are served a wonderful lunch at the KOA camp. It was fun to see some of my buddies from this forum and celebrate that we can still enjoy our Big Dogs regardless of the closing of the company. From there, we were on our own for the day where we proceeded on through the mountainous roads to Mt Rushmore. One of the greatest things about Bike Week in Sturgis is that within a days ride we can reach so many National monuments, parks and nationally known sites such as Crazy Horse. We ended our day with a trip by Rapid City to the Harley dealership where we ran into our friend Rod Brakhage who was very busy at his booth installing EZ Ups center stands and Wheeldock wheel chocks. He said he had a very successful booth this year.

The following day, brought a bit of a celebra-tion as we were able to attend the AMD World Championship Bike Show Awards Presenta-tion. We were able to watch a Thunder Roads Magazine OK fan, Dar Holdsworth, of Darwin Motorcycles LLC who builds Brass Balls Bob-bers and Choppers pick up First Place Trophy in the Production Class! What a nice feeling to be able to see one of our own do well in a world championship competition. That celebration was covered by an evening of partying in down-town. We hit some of the local establishments including the Broken Spoke Saloon where we again got to see Dar present the winning bike which is being given away. Broken Spoke allowed him to sell raffle tickets on the bike raising funds for Pros 4 Vets. It was also S&S


Motor night in which they gave away a brand new motor. Although I was only 5 ticket numbers away, I didn’t walk away with the new motor. However, we did get to meet the new president of S&S. The biggest bonus to the day was to meet Rick Petko, former OCC builder. Rick, just like the rest of us, was sim-ply out riding and partying in Sturgis, enjoying the sights and sounds of the week.

We took one more easy ride day the follow-ing day as we rode a short distance East and North of Sturgis to Bear Butte and lake. I had been told that the Bear Butte was a very spiri-tual spot where many locals went for peace and prayer. Once we had passed the gates of the park, through a herd of buffalo and up to the visitors center at the base of the butte, I understood why I’d been told this. A very rich history of Native American culture stands at this site. I found it most interesting that in 1858 the Bear Butte Council Meeting, accord-ing to oral history, had as many as 30,000 horses brought to the meeting by those riding in. Here I stood, over 150 years later, among more than 30,000 iron horses brought to the nearby town for the rally. We wrapped up the afternoon and early evening at the AH-DRA Drag Races just a bit down the road. There is nothing like motorcycles blazing down an eighth mile dragstrip at nearly 200 mph. Burning rubber and nitro is such a sweet scented cocktail!!!

Seemed like little time had passed, before we were waking and throwing a leg over our steel steeds on the way down the

curvy, marvelous sites through Spearfish Canyon. We took our time on this day as we knew it would be our final day of riding before returning home. Spearfish canyon is a road that runs parallel to a beautiful creek alongside tall rock walls and tree covered mountains. It is always a breathtaking ride. To top it off, the stop at Bridal Veil Water Fall, while cramped for parking during Bike Week, it’s well worth the view and photo op! On the way back to Sturgis, we took a side road that we’d overheard someone chatting about. It took us about 10 miles down a very scenic road that turned into gravel at a town named Rochford. There we found the coolest little town with not much more than a bar and grill which was established in 1862. It is called Moonshine Gulch. We pulled in amongst the 30 or so bikes and im-mediately smelled the wonderful hamburg-ers grilling. We were also greeted by the sound of a bluegrass band picking as well as a large smiley face created by a burnout in the middle of the highway. This place is a hidden secret that I’m sure we will return to again.

Yes. You can say that we had one tre-mendously wonderful time in Sturgis and the Black Hills area. We all discussed that, regardless of the rally going on or not, this is definitely a place anyone can enjoy with or without rally. It’s a great break from the over 100 temps of the Southern states at its mid-summer heat averages 85 degrees!


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The People Of Walmart

Saving Some For Later: Ma’am, you seem to have left something dangling from your behind. Oh, and while your taking the time to remove it, why don’t you try to think about what you did to your husband that he would let you walk around like pin-the-tail-on-the-don-key all day.

La-Z-Boys: Now that’s what I call an easy rider!

Marco…: Ahh yes, I see you guys are “car pooling” huh?

The Extended Pony: I can’t tell if that’s a sweet ponytail or simply his back hair creeping up onto his head. Whichever the case is, I’m a huge fan!

Born This Way: You got enough clashing going on here to make Lady Gaga blush!

Babysitting The Grandkids: I guess when your own kids don’t procreate and give you some nice little grandbabies, you have to make them on your own.


OKLAHOMA 405-409-5742

Advertisers Index – September 2011Absolut Cycle Worx....................................................................................30ASX Motorcycle Parts.............................................................................…25Awful Arthur’s Restaurant & Raw Bar…...................................................27Big Daddy’z Cycles……….................................................................……20Biker’s Depot…...........................................................................................11Blades & Barrels.....................................................................................….38Cavelli’s…...............................................................................................17Cycle Thunder….........................................................................................30Dakota Cobbler’s…....................................................................................35Dennis’ Truck & Trailer Repair….................................................................20Departure Bike Works…........................................................................….20Down Under Limosine................................................................................25Freedom R.V. Rental & Sales…................................................................27Goochland Restaurant…............................................................................25Grove’s Winchester Harley-Davidson…....................................................28Grumpy’s.................................................................................................…15Gulliver’s Crossflight Restaurant............................................................….11Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson….............................Outside Back CoverHampton Roads Harley-Davidson Craig’s List Guy…................................42Kampers Lodge.......................................................................................…38Liberty Biker Church..............................................................................….17Outlanders River Camp/Outlanders..........................................................…1PSD TEEZ…...............................................................................................35Quaker Steak and Lube….........................................................................30Rick “Preacher” Saunders Devotional…...................................................20Ride For Pink (Event)…........................Outside Front Cover & Calendar TopThe Blue Heron.......................................................................................…28The Ville.................................................................................................….34TO-DO-CAFÉ..................................................................................….17Tom McGrath’s Motorcycle Law Group............................…Inside Front CoverWright Sign Service...............................................................................….17

I recently took a class at a conference on the parking of vehicles on highways and roadways during an emer-gency situation. It was extremely informative, these types of classes usually are. During one of the many videos that we viewed during the class, I noticed that there was a motorcycle police officer that was working an accident on a busy suburban boulevard, along with other emergency vehicles on the scene. Many emergency vehicles are the target of secondary collisions at the original accident

In The DayBACK

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Documents

Thunder Roads Virginia Magazine - September 2011