0 1 6 Call of the Cape Desert Proof Blackline® Vs. Wide Glide

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BLACKLINE® VS. WIDE GLIDE® CALL OF THE CAPE DESERT PROOF

6 1 CALL OF THE CAPE DESERT PROOF BLACKLINE VS. WIDE GLIDE 2 0 1 2 0

Contents

Features Departments

26 Deserted 10 Editor The Harley-Davidson® Blackline® and Wide Glide® models go head to head in the desert. 12 Intake 32 Area Nowhere 14 The Word A look behind the scenes at the Harley-Davidson Arizona Proving Ground test facility. 18 Spotlight 38 Celtic Calling 38 20 Next Ride Photography: ©Michael Lichter/lichterphoto.com ©Michael Photography: Photographer Michael Lichter takes a dream ride during the Celtic Colours International Festival on 22 Get Going Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island. 24 Between the Lines 46 A Little Help From My Friends 54 Enthusiasts Glen Abbott heads to Louisiana for his first experience at a U.S. state H.O.G.® rally. 62 Gear 52 $100 Rides 64 Archives A journey through the Lone Star State to honor “Texas Rangers and Other Heroes.” 66 Exhaust

32 Photography: Wes Allison Wes Photography: Photography: Wes Allison Wes Photography: Backstage Rolling Thunder® XXV First held in 1987, the Rolling Thunder Run to the Wall, which celebrated its 25th anniversary May 27 in Washington, D.C., has grown into one of the largest and most iconic motorcycle events in the country. Established to bring attention to service members missing in action during the Vietnam War, the Rolling Thunder organization now encompasses more than 80 chapters nationwide and promotes accountability for POW/MIAs from all the nation’s conflicts, and its annual Run to the Wall attracts hundreds of thousands of participants each year. As part of the 25th anniversary event, Harley-Davidson Motor Company President Matt Levatich was one of the keynote speakers. Photography: Josh Kurpius Josh Photography:

6 HOG HOG 7 Backstory

Own Your Own H-D History The image collection at the Harley-Davidson Museum® Archives is a treasure-trove of vintage photographs and other images that chronicle the history of the Motor Company from 1903 to present. We regularly reprint some of the best here in the pages of HOG® magazine, but until recently there was no way for readers to acquire copies for their own enjoyment. Now, for the first time, a large selection of archival photographs and vintage ads are available for purchase from the Harley- Davidson Archives. Over 500 images, like this rare 1921 photo of legendary H-D® racer Jim Davis on a board track, are available in stretched canvas and framed editions, as well as unframed archival paper prints. To browse the available selections, visit harley-davidsonimages.com, or h-dmuseum.com and click on the “Shop” tab.

® Photograph courtesy of the the of courtesy Photograph Company Motor Harley-Davidson H-D. Copyright Archives.

8 HOG HOG 9 Editor

Wow – and Thank You!

THAT’S THE SIMPLEST WAY TO ACKNOWLEDGE copyright 2012 H-D THE OVERWHELMING RESPONSE ON THE COVER: The 2012 Harley-Davidson® Blackline® we got to our and Wide Glide® models go head to head in the California request in HOG® 014 for invitations to attend desert (Pages 26-30). Executive Editor your favorite motorcycle events. The volume of Paul James Editor mail it generated was truly overwhelming – and Matt King they haven’t stopped coming! This wasn’t really Design and Production GS Design a surprise, but it was still a challenge to sort Visit Harley-Davidson Motor Co. on the Internet at through it all. Needless to say, we don’t have www.harley-davidson.com. We care about you. Ride safely, respectfully, and within the ability to reply personally to every letter, the limits of the law and your abilities. Always wear an approved helmet, proper eyewear, and protective let alone attend even a fraction of the events clothing and insist your passenger does too. Never ride while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Know you invited us to. But we do have plans to share some of the most interesting in the pages your Harley® motorcycle and read and understand your owner’s manual from cover to cover. of HOG through the remainder of the year. HOG magazine is published by Harley-Davidson for owners of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles and anyone You may already have noticed that we revamped our calendar section to include some of interested in news about the Motor Company, its products, and activities. Subscriptions are limited to our reader-submitted events. We also held an editorial roundtable with the magazine’s key the U.S. We reserve the right to edit all submissions for writers and photographers to pick a few events to attend. I won’t give away our list, but we publication in HOG. chose a variety of events ranging from local chapter events to big rallies to small poker runs All submissions become property of Harley-Davidson Motor Co. If you’d like your photo returned, please send a and a few that don’t really fit into any particular category. So beginning with Glen Abbott’s self-addressed stamped envelope with your submission. trip to the Louisiana State H.O.G.® Rally on Pages 46-50 in this issue, watch for coverage in All H-D® and Buell® product illustrations, photographs, and specifications mentioned in the publication are based on the latest product information at the time future issues of HOG. of publication. The right is reserved to make changes at any time in prices, colors, materials, equipment, On the subject of state H.O.G. rallies, I’m happy to report that through the early part of specifications, and models and also to discontinue models. Some vehicles in this publication are shown with the season attendance is up strongly. That’s great news because it means more people are available equipment. learning, as Glen did, how diverse and fun these events are. And that they’re as much about HOG will not intentionally publish fraudulent or misleading advertising. HOG does not endorse any advertiser or its products, and cannot be responsible for the people you meet as they are about getting there or the activities you take part in once advertisers’ claims. Some advertised products are not you arrive. available outside the U.S. To order HOG or change mailing address, e-mail us Whatever motivates you to attend a motorcycle event this season, the important thing is at [email protected] or write: HOG, Harley-Davidson, Inc., P.O. Box 453, Milwaukee, WI 53201, to get your butt on that bike and ride. That’s the simple concept that launched H.O.G.’s Million or visit: www.harley-davidson.com/hog. When requesting a change of address, include your Mile Monday a few years ago. This year the event became the H-D World Ride to expand the mailing label from the back cover. scope and encourage more people around the world to participate. I hope you got out on your To advertise in HOG, e-mail John Sandberg at jsandberg@ integraonline.com. bike on June 24-25 and entered your mileage in the online odometer at h-d.com/worldride. HOG may allow others to use its mailing list. If you do not want your name included, please write: HOG, As I write this it hasn’t happened yet, so I can’t tell you how many miles we rode together. But Harley-Davidson, Inc., P.O. Box 453, Milwaukee, WI 53201. I’m sure it will be an impressive amount! No part of HOG may be reproduced for any purpose in entirety or part without the express written consent of Finally, I want to remind you that if you’re attending the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally to check Harley-Davidson. out all the great events H.O.G. has planned this year. Details are on Page 16. Harley-Davidson, Harley, H-D, HOG, and the Bar & Shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC.

Matt King THE H.O.G.® MILEAGE PROGRAM. EARN AWARDS JUST FOR DOING WHAT YOU LOVE MOST: RIDING — STARTING AT ONLY 1,000 MILES. How far you take it is up to you, but the journey begins at members.hog.com. Download an entry form today, then ride to your local dealership to sign up. And give yourself one more reason to hit the road with H.O.G.

I couldn’t believe my eyes as I opened In 2002 I was contacted by Willie G.’s Selling his Soul my mailbox and saw the cover of the assistant and asked if I would be interested DO NOT do what I did after retiring. I HOG 015 issue: “Road vs. Street.” And who in doing an interview for the 2003 H-D® retired at age 62 and bought my first better to do this comparison than Harley- models, where they chose a variety of Harley – a new 2008 Fat Boy® – and Davidson? As I read the article, all I could people from different areas to tell their accessorized it to the fullest. I then took off do is pound my chest with pride. I’ve story of how they were dedicated Harley on a journey from Seattle to Watertown, been riding for about 25 years, but I didn’t riders. It was a privilege and honor to do South Dakota via Sturgis, with a return know the true meaning of riding until I the interview, and very easy when you ride trip to Seattle by way of Denver and So if you have engine guards on your bought my first Harley-Davidson,® a 2009 something you believe in and are a part of Owning a Harley is more than just owning Boise. I made several smaller trips around bike, let them do what they’re designed Heritage Softail® Classic. After racking up the Harley-Davidson family. Washington and down the Oregon coast a motorcycle – it’s meeting like-minded to do. Replacing a couple of footboards, 600-700 miles a day, I decided to invest in Jeff Fromm over the next three years. During the and even an engine guard, is a lot cheaper a true Touring bike, a 2011 Street Glide.® Via E-mail people and a way of keeping young. fourth year of ownership money got tight, than knee surgery and the downtime that My salesman asked if I had ever Jerry Mahnke, Renton, Washington and I sold my Harley believing I wouldn’t comes with it. considered a Road Glide; my answer to Mistaken Identities want to ride anymore. Mike Barron him: “Naw, I don’t like the fairing on that What a mistake! What I discovered from Augusta, Maine bike.” He asked me to give it a test ride and Great 015 issue and layout on HRCT Genuine Article This almost happened to me, where the being a member of National H.O.G. and let him know what I thought. I’m now [H.O.G.® Rally Coordinator Training]. driver didn’t see me, even though I was my local Harley Owners Group® chapter in I truly enjoy the Intake section of HOG® the proud owner of a 2011 Sedona Orange Wonderful article about Willie G. And directly in his rear view mirror sight and a I have an additional tip regarding those Seattle was that not only did I miss riding magazine. It’s about real people having Road Glide Custom. I couldn’t believe how thanks for the write-up on me and the good 10 feet back. He just kept coming but annoying left-hand turn sensors that my bike, I equally missed the camaraderie, very real experiences with their Harley® smooth and nimble the shark-nose was, California State H.O.G. Rally, but it’s a stopped in time. I now stay back at least 20 don’t always work at traffic signals. One friends, and group rides! motorcycles. I’ve never been compelled how she took the wind, and looked so cool bummer that the picture isn’t me. feet or so, and so do my riding buddies. day I was stopped at one that wouldn’t Owning a Harley is more than just to send in a letter, but after reading as I looked in the big glass window of a Tony Migliaccio change. A Gold Wing rider coming Bill Davis owning a motorcycle – it’s meeting like- Glen Abbott’s article titled, “Hogs, Trails store I was passing. Hook, line, and sinker, California State Rally Coordinator Via E-mail from the opposite direction saw what minded people and a way of keeping and Dragons’ Tails” in issue 015, I had to I’m a true Road Glide shark-nose nut! happened, slowed as he approached young. My regret is that because I’m now write. I’ve read many articles about a Bat-wing owners, you owe it to Bill, we’re very sorry about that! And to me, and offered the following advice: make it worse, we also misrepresented on a fixed income I can no longer afford to journalist’s experience on a certain route I want to share a story regarding parking yourselves to take a test ride on a Road In order to get metal to the sensor, drop Eric Anderson, the Indiana State Rally buy another Harley to get back into the joy or trip he’s taken. So many times the – a lesson I learned the hard way. Glide and see just what you’re missing. the sidestand on it (you can usually Coordinator. To help make it up to you both, of riding and socializing with that crowd. author saturates the article with quips or My wife and I were on our Ultra Classic® Like I always say, “If you ain’t glidin,’ you spot where the sensor lines are), then here are the correct photos and a quick plug: Lesson learned: No matter what the cute quotes to make it seem as if they’re Electra Glide,® leaving a parking lot that ain’t ridin.” Road Glide, that is. lift it back up. It only takes a couple of Sign up today for the California and Indiana reason, DO NOT EVER sell your Harley as part of the “crowd.” It comes off very required an uphill exit onto the highway. Craig Haskell seconds. This tip has worked on each of state H.O.G. rallies! —Ed. long as you’re able to ride. artificial, and I normally skip over those I made a tactical error by approaching Hephzibah, Georgia those traffic lights in my area that won’t Jerry Mahnke parts of the magazine. the busy highway at an angle, where the change if my bike is the only vehicle Renton, Washington I’m certainly glad that I did NOT skip ground on my left was lower than the around. Thank You, Willie over Glen’s article. What Glen wrote in ground on my right, and then I had to stop John Besser his article captures the true essence of for traffic at the top of the grade. As soon After a construction accident in 1998 that What’s Your Story? Via E-mail what riding a Harley can do to your state as I stopped, before I could get my left foot required surgeons to reattach my left arm, We welcome your letters, photos, and of mind. I felt very connected to his story all the way down onto the lower slope of one of my goals was to ride my new 1998 riding stories. Please e-mail yours to because it wasn’t about reciting endless the grade, the bike started tipping to the glide pride Road King.® The story of my accident hit [email protected] or route numbers; it was about telling his left. I planted my left foot hard to try to the local media, and someone from Denver mail them to … HOG magazine, P.O. Box I’m not one to write in to comment on tale from a true rider’s experience. Thanks hold up the Ultra, my wife, and myself. sent it to Harley-Davidson. At a point when 453, Milwaukee, WI 53201. Please include articles, but after reading “Glide vs. Glide” for a great article. I definitely know where Guess what? It didn’t work. I was ready to give up, a letter came in the your name, address, telephone number in the last edition of HOG I felt compelled to I’m going for my next road trip. It’s an interesting sight to watch your mail from Willie G., and it couldn’t have Bill Davis, castatehogrally.com and/or e-mail address. All submissions put in my two cents. I couldn’t agree more Matt Legg knee bend laterally (to the outside) rather come at a better time. I had new hope and become property of Harley-Davidson. with Matt King. Riding a Road Glide is a Parma, Ohio than backward like it’s designed to do. an improved outlook on life, and eventually We reserve the right to edit submissions step up from riding anything else. Many When my knee gave out, the bike went started to recover and feel better. for length and content. riders of other bikes are curious about the down but stopped on the engine guard. It was an honor to have someone that Full Stop shark-nose of my 2004 Road Glide® and ask The bike never hit the ground, and the important take time to send me a letter how it is to ride. My suggestion is always I enjoyed Becky’s Between the Lines article only scratch on the bike was to the engine while I was down, so I wanted to go to the same, “Rent or test ride one, and you’ll in HOG 015. I have one more safety issue guard, and the rider and passenger the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally that year and be hooked.” that may help riders. I often see riders pull footboards. The scratches were barely meet Willie G. to thank him in person. up close to the rear of a car at a stoplight. noticeable. But my completely ruptured Phil Tripp I made a call to H-D and got in contact Sonoma, California If the car rolls backward or the driver backs left ACL was very noticeable and put an with his assistant, who was great and up for any reason, the biker will get hit. early end to my riding season. told me the details of when and where Eric Anderson, instatehogrally.com he would be during the event.

12 HOG HOG 13 The Word

HDTLC

Don’t be Alarmed Marvel’s To help deter theft, the H-D® Smart Security System is available as a factory (or dealer-installed) option on many H-D The Avengers Rules motorcycles. This next-generation security system features a wireless hands-free fob that automatically arms and disarms the Marvel Comics legend Stan Lee revved things up on a security functions as you approach and walk away from the bike. It’s Harley-Davidson Softail Slim model at the Hollywood premiere a great feature — but what happens if you lose the security fob? of the movie Marvel’s The Avengers on April 11. The bike is Not a big problem if you know what to do. When you purchased similar to the one featured in the film, which is equipped to your motorcycle or had your system installed, you should have resemble a WWII-era WLA model. A few weeks later, the movie received a five-digit PIN, or personal identification number, that broke multiple box office records with a domestic opening- will allow you to disarm the security system without the fob. weekend haul of more than $200 million. Below is an overview only of the procedure. For detailed instructions on disarming your Smart Security System, consult your owner’s manual.

Jump Right In 1. Taking care not to move the motorcycle in any way (and If any of your non-riding triggering the alarm), turn the ignition key to IGNITION. friends or loved ones need a little 2. Quickly, within two seconds, hold both turn signal switches convincing about how indescribably until the key icon flashes at a fast rate. In the odometer awesome it is to ride a Harley- “Tsunami Bike” Heading to H-D Museum® window, a flashing dash will be followed by four more dashes. Davidson motorcycle, there’s no It drifted for more than a year in an insulated cargo van Canada and Harley-Davidson Japan, contact was made with better way than to have them take 3. Enter the first digit of your PIN by pressing the left turn container, propelled by wind and tide, more than 4,000 miles 29-year-old Ikuo Yokoyama, who lost his home and three of his the Harley-Davidson JUMPSTART™ signal the corresponding number of times. This number will across the Pacific Ocean. When it finally washed ashore on the family members in the disaster. Yokoyama declined an offer experience out for a test ride at an be displayed where the flashing dash appeared. coast of British Columbia, Canada, the 2004 Harley-Davidson® from Harley-Davidson to restore the motorcycle and return it to H-D dealer or H-D event near you. 4. Press the right turn signal switch one time to store the FXSTB Softail® Night Train™ motorcycle showed the full effects him, suggesting instead that the bike should go to the Harley- It’s as close as you can (legally) get to trying out a Harley® number. of its remarkable journey. It was beaten, battered, corroded, and Davidson Museum to honor the more than 15,000 who perished, without a motorcycle license – or any previous experience on 5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the remaining digits of your PIN. seemingly beyond repair. But it still bore its original license along with countless others whose lives changed forever. a motorcycle. This unique opportunity puts you in the saddle plate from Japan, where it was washed to sea by the devastating “The Museum is honored to receive this amazing motorcycle of a real Harley-Davidson motorcycle, where an expert host 6. Once all five digits have been successfully stored, the key tsunami that struck that island nation on March 11, 2011. to ensure that its condition is preserved and can be displayed as will guide you through the steps. You can start it, put it in icon will stop blinking and the Smart Security System is When Canadian Peter Mark found the bike, he knew he needed a memorial to the Japan tsunami tragedy,” said Bill Davidson, gear, rev it up, shift it, hear the roar, feel the rumble, and get a disarmed. to try to track down the original owner. Working with news Vice President of the Harley-Davidson Museum. tantalizing taste of the real thing. Just about all that’s missing If you’ve lost your PIN or never received one, contact your agencies and representatives from Deeley Harley-Davidson is the wind in your face. dealer right away. And don’t be alarmed if you ever find To find a participating Harley-Davidson dealership near you, yourself fobless. visit h-d.com/jumpstart.

14 HOG HOG 15 The Word

H.O.G.® News

Chapters and Choices As I travel around the country, I’m often surprised by how many prospective H.O.G. members ask me, “Don’t you have to join a local chapter to be a member of H.O.G.?” The answer is, “No … chapter membership is completely optional!” Perhaps you’ve encountered this misconception among your friends. But I’m even more surprised (and somewhat troubled) when I hear a different question, this time from current H.O.G. members: “Isn’t being a local chapter member a lot of work?” The answer, in this case, is, “Only if you want it to be!” Because the great thing about chapter membership – much as with H.O.G. itself – is that you can make it be just about anything you want. Blues, BBQ, H.O.G.® The goal of chapters is to ride and have fun – because that’s what being a Harley owner is all about. That might mean and 2013 Demos anything from taking part in a large group ride to simply Join H.O.G. in Fayetteville, Arkansas September 26-29 having a new set of friends you can call up and ride with on a for the annual Bikes, Blues & BBQ Motorcycle Rally. This lively moment’s notice. It can also mean having a team of fellow riders event includes a H.O.G. Pin Stop and a special H.O.G. event to recommend the best roads in the area or give suggestions on at the Dickson Street Rally Venue from 7-9PM on Thursday, how to avoid high-traffic areas on your ride to work. September 27. In addition, Bikes, Blues & BBQ will be your In addition to riding ideas and opportunities, chapters also first opportunity to demo ride the new 2013 model year offer different kinds of events and activities to get involved Harley-Davidson motorcycles. For more information, log on to with (if you want to). From monthly meetings and weekend members.hog.com or visit bikesbluesandbbq.org. rides/events to big, overnight chapter rides and state H.O.G. rallies, local chapters are the wheels of Harley Owners Group.® The Buffalo Chip Experience Contrary to the rumors, joining a local chapter doesn’t Join H.O.G. on Wednesday, August 8 for exclusive access at the world-famous Buffalo Chip Campground in Sturgis. Tickets obligate you to attend every meeting, take part in every activity, are $60 each, for which you’ll enjoy parking and an overnight camping space; food; admission to a special motorcycle art exhibit, National Bikers or work as free labor to host events. Sure, if you volunteer to help curated by world-renowned photographer and HOG® magazine contributor Michael Lichter; and entrance to a headline concert, Roundup with an event or you decide you want to be a chapter officer, featuring Grammy-nominated crossover artist Eric Church. you do have to take that commitment seriously. Your fellow Members may purchase up to four guest tickets – only available at members.hog.com. The Texas Motorplex in chapter members will be counting on you. But chapter members Ennis, Texas is the site of this shouldn’t feel burdened by an obligation they don’t want. year’s National Bikers Roundup. What it all really comes down to is this: Joining a local This historic event, first chapter is the very best way I know to connect with other More H.O.G.® Stuff at Sturgis organized in 1977 by a group of Harley riders. Chapter members become an extended family, In addition to the big Event at the Buffalo Chip on August Biker Belles Ride – August 8 African American motorcycle the one you choose. And like any family, it’s always interesting! 8, there’s plenty more going on at Sturgis, August 4-11, for H.O.G. Ladies of Harley® and Harley-Davidson are proud sponsors clubs, serves to “unite the Membership in a H.O.G. chapter is what you make of it. But members to enjoy! of this ride to celebrate women at Sturgis. Activities begin at motorcycle community, you can only make it something great by joining one. So stop at celebrate accomplishments, [and] rejoice in promoting your local H-D dealership and find out how to get involved. H.O.G. Pin Stop 11AM at the Deadwood Lodge, including a women’s symposium camaraderie.” It’s also a 2012 H.O.G. Pin Stop event. So if you’re Pick up your free event pin, enter a sweepstakes to win a tablet hosted by H-D’s own Market Outreach Director Claudia Garber. headed to the Lone Star state to take part, August 1-4, swing by Paul Raap and recharge your mobile device at the Recharge Lounge At 3PM, riders will take a scenic 90-minute ride to the Buffalo the Harley-Davidson display area to pick up your free pin and H.O.G. Management Team (sponsored by AT&T), renew your membership, chat with H-D Chip Campground for a fashion show and more. Registration spend some quality time with H-D staff. staff, or just sit and relax for a while. is available on site from 11AM-3PM; for complete details or to pre-register, visit www.bikerbelles.com. 16 HOG HOG 17 Spotlight

Kennedy High. The idea of the chopper class came from his students, who were eager to get their hands on that old Ironhead. “They wanted to tear it down in class and put it back together, as kind of a side project,” he explains. And so they did. Somewhere along the line, Baas found a 1957 Panhead to add to the mix, and, the next thing you know, kids who previously might have avoided coming to school altogether ONE HELL OF A RIDING PARTNER. were staying late and working hard to get the bikes finished. As the unofficial “chopper class” gained steam, Baas put together a proposal to make it part of the school’s curriculum. He would fund it by soliciting donated parts and then selling the completed bikes. By then, school administrators were already

Photography: Josh Kurpius Josh Photography: seeing real value in the program and approved his plan. By calling old friends and getting the word out through the Kevin Baas Internet, Baas got the attention of people and companies such as Indian Larry (a custom bike builder in New York), Paul Cox Payback Time (a custom seat maker), and S&S Cycle, to name only a few of the SOME OF KEVIN BAAS’S EARLIEST, BEST MEMORIES involve high-profile benefactors. In recent years, Harley-Davidson has riding in the sidecar of an old Harley-Davidson® Panhead Police also donated some engines. And Sugar Bear, the famous L.A. bike Special, sitting with his dog, heading for ice cream or to the builder, donated one of his distinctive front ends. fireworks, with his dad behind the handlebars and the whole This ongoing collective generosity has enabled the Kennedy world in front of him. It was a formative experience that shaped Chopper Class to build choppers that regularly win awards his life in more ways than one. at the Donnie Smith Invitational, a prominent bike show in Today, Baas teaches technical education at Kennedy High neighboring St. Paul. But the real payoff is the passion and School in Bloomington, Minnesota. But he’s not just any tech changes in attitude Baas sees in his students. ed teacher. He’s probably just about the coolest teacher of any “We’ve had kids here working until midnight, one o’clock in subject you’re likely to find anywhere. the morning,” he says. “And parents are amazed that we can get And it’s not just because he teaches his students to build the kids to want to come to school, and actually be excited to award-winning choppers for school credit. It’s because he cares so come and stay that late.” deeply about the kids. Especially the ones who come from difficult In his shop at home, Baas operates Baas Metal Craft, which backgrounds or are just struggling to find their way in school. keeps him busy during the summers and helps fund what he calls “Because when I was in high school, I was one of the troubled his “vintage bike addiction” – not to mention feed his and Amy’s kids,” he explains. “I couldn’t sit still. I was ADD, and I didn’t do well three growing boys: Braden, 10; Gavin, 8; and Mason, 5. All three just sitting in class. I needed to be up and about, using my hands.” are already riding dirt bikes and helping their dad in the shop. As a result, some of his teachers saw him as a problem. But the best part is when Amy jumps on her very own ’39 Fortunately, others recognized his potential and knew just how Knucklehead, the boys pile into one of dad’s sidecars, and the to harness it. whole family hits the road in search of ice cream or to head to “Some of my shop teachers said, ‘This is just a kid who needs the fireworks. Sometimes his mom and dad join them, she on to be kept busy, needs projects to push him. He wants to learn her Ironhead Sportster and he on his 1952 Panhead bobber. Or new stuff all the time and work with his hands.’ So I said, ‘That’s maybe even that old ’64 Police Special he still rides. the kind of teacher I want to be, to help students who are in the “I still remember vividly,” Baas says, thinking about that old same position I was, just so they don’t get swept under the rug.’” ’64. “If I close my eyes I can go back in time and picture myself Baas learned to work with his hands from those teachers – and in my dad’s sidecar. It left a lasting impression. I’m hoping I’m to work on bikes from his father, who gave him a “basket case” doing the same for my boys.” YOU’RE PART OF THE HARLEY FAMILY. It runs in your veins. So keep your ride in the right hands with Harley-Davidson Insurance– 1958 XLCH Ironhead Sportster® when he graduated from high A lasting impression, indeed. And not just for his sons but for $3,000 Accessory Coverage, Genuine H-D® Parts guarantee, Total Loss Replacement Coverage, H.O.G.® member discount and so much more. school in 1995. They worked on it when he was home from college, all the students at Kennedy High School fortunate enough to be ANNUAL POLICIES START AS LOW AS $95 *. and it ultimately became Kevin’s primary mode of transportation. a part of the amazing Mr. Baas’s kick-ass chopper class. At school he was just “getting by,” he says, earning mostly TM Bs, until he met Amy his senior year. She sparked something Kevin Baas received the “Mentor and Humanitarian” award at the 866-798-2848 Insurance the harley way. H-DInsurance.com inside him, and before you could say “holy matrimony” he found Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in 2010 and is the author of How to Build himself getting straight As and landing on the Dean’s List. an Old Skool Bobber. Learn more at www.baasmetalcraft.com and They were married in 1999, and Kevin soon settled in at www.kennedychopperclass.com. Harley-Davidson Insurance products are underwritten by Progressive Casualty Insurance Company & afﬁ liates. Harley-Davidson Insurance Services, Inc. is a licensed insurance agency in all 50 states with its resident agency license in Nevada (NV#5597). Available in U.S. only. $3,000 Custom Accessory coverage included in most states with the purchase of Comprehensive coverage. Total Loss Replacement coverage is not available for all motorcycles and coverage selections and is available in most states. Discount availability varies by state. All coverage is subject to policy terms. CA LICENSE #0B26461 Harley-Davidson, H-D and the Bar and Shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC. ©2012 H-D. All rights reserved. 11D00808.A (02/12) 18 HOG Next Ride Photography: Friends of the Beartooth All-American Road All-American the Beartooth of Friends Photography: www.beartoothhighway.com

Montana/Wyoming Beartooth Highway YOU CAN’T WRITE ABOUT U.S. 212 (from Red Lodge to Cooke City, Montana) without quoting the late Charles Kuralt, who famously labeled this mountain road “the most beautiful drive in America.” On two wheels, it’s doubly breathtaking, with dramatic switchbacks leading to the 10,947-foot Beartooth Pass. It has been known to snow up there at almost any time of year, so watch the weather and gear up accordingly. And make sure you start your journey with a full tank, as fuel availability is scarce along the way. The spectacular views, on the other hand, are almost limitless. www.byways.org/explore/byways/2281

Arkansas Pig Trail Scenic Byway THIS 19-MILE STRETCH OF WOODED WONDERLAND (AR 23 through the Ozark National Forest) is the pride of the Ozarks, famous for the enthusiastic stream of fans who take it on their way to Fayetteville, home of the Arkansas Razorbacks. When there’s no football game, it’s a fantastic motorcycle road, known for abundant wildflowers in the spring, lush green canopies in the summer, beautiful colors in the fall, and abundant twists and turns all year. A great way to experience it is at the 2012 Arkansas State H.O.G.® Rally in Rogers, WITH 47 STATE H.O.G.® RALLIES TO CHOOSE FROM, you don’t need August 23-25. an excuse to think big. So get on your bike, get out there, and go www.arkansas.com as far as you want to go. The best of America is waiting for you, www.arstatehogrally.com and nothing’s holding you back.

Photography: Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism Discover more in the Events Calendar at hog.com. YOU’RE NEXT! Got an idea for a great Next Ride? Send your suggestion, along with a high-quality photograph to [email protected].

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9 7 5 10

6 AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 Series

XR1200 Racing at Indy 4 12 14 Come to Indianapolis to watch the world’s top motorcycle racers battle for supremacy at the Red Bull Indianapolis GP, August 17-19, Photography: Brian J. Nelson Brian J. Photography: at the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Then stick around to 1 watch (and hear) some of the world’s most competitive racing as the Harley-Davidson XR1200 riders take to the track. It’s loud, fast, and close. On Saturday night, the AMA Pro Flat Track action will be at the nearby Indy Mile. › Indianapolis, Indiana 13 › August 17-19 2012 U.S. State H.O.G.® Rallies Whether they’re around the corner or across the country, U.S. State H.O.G. Rallies provide unique opportunities to enjoy new experiences as you travel the United States. For a complete 2012 schedule, visit hog.com/events.

California State H.O.G. Rally

NATIONAL BIKERS LONG BEACH JAZZ MILWAUKEE RALLY TOMAHAWK FALL RIDE This exciting touring rally will lead you over some of the Golden State’s most beautiful 1 ROUNDUP 4 FESTIVAL 7 › Milwaukee, Wisconsin 11 › Tomahawk, Wisconsin mountain passes. In addition, all rally-goers are invited to take part in the California Passes Game all › Ennis, Texas › Long Beach, California › August 30-September 3 › September 13-15 summer long. In the spirit of the ABCs of Touring contest, this fun activity will challenge you to ride as › August 1-4 › August 10-12 › H.O.G. Pin Stop › H.O.G. Pin Stop › H.O.G. Pin Stop › www.longbeachjazz › www.milwaukeerally.com › hog.com/events many of the other 40-plus California passes (and visit as many California H-D® dealerships) as possible › www.nbrkcmo.com festival.com – and inspire you to make 2012 your most monumental riding season ever! BUMBERSHOOT® 2012 ROUTE 66 › Santa Maria to Sacramento STURGIS MOTORCYCLE EASYRIDERs RODEO 8 › Seattle, Washington 12RENDEZVOUS › September 11-15 2 RALLY 5 › Fowlerville, Michigan › September 1-3 › San Bernardino, › Sturgis, South Dakota › August 17-19 › www.bumbershoot.org California › August 4-11 › www.lightningcustoms. › September 13-16 MASSACHUSETTS/ WISCONSIN INDIANA MISSISSIPPI › H.O.G. Pin Stop and com/easyridersrodeo CUSTOM BIKE SHOW AT › www.route-66.org RHODE ISLAND In the heart of hilly Hills, hollers, and Make a run for the (TN) border H-D Demos tour.html 9 H-D MUSEUM® Spend a few hours at Minute and beautiful America’s Hoosier hospitality. along the Mighty Mississip. › www.h-d.com/sturgis Submitted by › Milwaukee, Wisconsin AMA ROAD RACING Man National Historical Park. Dairyland. › McCormick’s Creek › Southaven Pandopete › September 2 13 › Homestead, Florida › Boxborough, MA › Wausau State Park › September 20-22 Canadian national › h-dmuseum.com › September 21-23 › August 9-11 › August 16-18 › August 24-26 3 Riding Rally VETERANS RALLY › www.amaproracing.com NEW JERSEY › Moncton, New 6 › Cripple Creek, Colorado The CT United RIDE MICHIGAN ARKANSAS GEORGIA See how things really go down Brunswick › August 17-19 10 › Norwalk to Bridgeport, BIKES BLUES & BBQ Grab the crew and head Because everyone should ride Lose yourself in the on the Jersey shore. › August 8-11 › www.theveteransrally.org Connecticut 14 › Fayetteville, Arkansas for “K-Zoo.” the Pig Trail at least once. North Georgia Mountains. › Seaside Heights › members.hog.com/ Submitted by › September 9 › September 26-29 › Kalamazoo › Rogers › Hiawassee › September 20-22 events Phil Edwards › www.ctunitedride.com › H.O.G. Pin Stop › August 16-18 › August 23-25 › September 6-8 Submitted by › www.bikesbluesandbbq. MISSOURI Darrell Bumbala org NEW HAMPSHIRE/ WASHINGTON NEW MEXICO A blue ribbon weekend at the VERMONT Scenic and historic sites Ride the Turquoise Trail in Missouri State Fairgrounds. Escape to the Loon like Grand Coulee Dam the Land of Enchantment. › Sedalia Mountain Resort. and Loup Loup Pass. › Albuquerque › September 20-23 › Lincoln, NH › Okanogan › September 6-8 › August 16-18 › August 23-25

Dates, locations, and event details subject to change. 22 HOG HOG 23 BTL

Between The Lines Ride to Eat (Healthier) Fueling Your Body on the Road

By Becky Tillman

For this edition of “Between the Lines,” I’m pleased to introduce guest author doughnut or pancakes with syrup. Stay away can’t burn off! Select foods prepared with socialize with friends during meals they eat pita chips or other baked snacks can satisfy Melissa Gevo of the Marietta H.O.G.® Chapter in Marietta, Georgia. Melissa is studying from high-sugar foods in the morning, as low-fat methods, such as baked chicken or about 50 percent more. Half again as much! that craving without all the fat. dietetics at Life University and as a class assignment wrote this article about eating they can improve your mood initially but grilled meats. The biggest difference was with dessert. Of course, be sure to drink plenty of water healthy while on the road on a motorcycle. We liked it so much we adapted it for use then leave you feeling tired. You need to be Consider sharing a meal. Many restaurants This could be that because friends enjoy along the way – especially when it’s hot! here – with her permission, of course. Dig in! —Becky Tillman, Rider’s Edge wide awake when the throttle is wide open. serve way-too-big portions, and since we each other’s company they extend their Avoid soda and high-sugar drinks, as those Good sources of lean protein in the can’t do doggie bags on long trips there time together so linger over dessert. This have empty calories and can actually make morning are hard-boiled eggs or yogurt. will be less food to waste. Sandwich shops is a good time to share your dessert (again, you more dehydrated. Choose 100 percent Whole grain breakfast cereal with skim or that let you pick the ingredients are a good sometimes the portion sizes are huge!) so juices instead. low-fat milk is another good option while alternative. Choose lean meats, whole grains, you don’t feel deprived later. on the road – these can sometimes even and as many vegetables as you can. Eat to Live (Better) be found in single-serving packages at gas Finally, be sure to pack (and take!) any stations. Finally, a protein bar can be an A Satisfying Dinner Do your best vitamin supplements and medications you adequate substitute for a breakfast meal After a long day of riding, nothing feels to make good normally take. If you don’t take vitamins, a if it doesn’t contain a lot of sugar and better than to relax around a table with road trip is a great time to start. And some high calories. It’s best to read the label. your riding buddies and talk about the ride choices and don’t riders, of course, have special diets they A breakfast burrito or breakfast sandwich so far. Choose a healthy entrée such as need to follow for specific health issues such is better than a sweet roll. grilled fish or chicken. You can have a go overboard on as diabetes or high cholesterol. steak but just order a smaller portion size, the quantity. It would be great if we could take a A High-octane Lunch and don’t load up the potato with lots of vacation from those conditions, but that isn’t This is when you need to be refueled; after butter and sour cream. Keep the veggies possible. With a little planning, effort, and a few hours of riding, it’s time to put some coming and feel free to enjoy one slice willpower, we can navigate around most junk healthy nutrients in your gas tank. Order a (not the whole loaf!) of the bread they Nourishing Snacks food and maintain a healthy eating program salad and some soup to fill you up.T hese bring to the table. Even pizza can be a Snacks should be low in saturated fats, while enjoying being on the open road. normally have healthier ingredients, and good choice, believe it or not. Just order low in sugar, and nutritious. If you’re able Our reward is to feel healthier, be more then you can go easy on the more calorie- the thin crust and add extra vegetables to pack a cooler on your bike, pack fresh alert, and be able to ride – and even live dense main entrée. Eat the vegetables if instead of extra cheese. cut veggies and fruit. Individually wrapped to ride – a little longer. A Focus on Food challenging) to fuel our bodies properly they come with the meal or order them on There’s no need to count calories on string cheese is full of calcium and protein. As with so many H.O.G. chapters around and keep our health on track. the side. You still should eat 6-9 servings of vacation, just be mindful of what you’re If you don’t have a cooler, apples are a great How about You? Do you have a topic the country, one of the unofficial mottos at So what should you eat while on that vegetables a day, even away from home. eating. Do your best to make good choices snack you can eat on the fly (no peeling or you’d like to see us address in Between Marietta H.O.G. is “Live to Ride, Ride to Eat.” road trip, when you’re gone for several days (If this is a big challenge for you, consider a and don’t go overboard on the quantity. cutting required). the Lines? Let us know by writing to There are few things our members like more or weeks at a time? Let’s start with getting vegetable powder supplement from a health Also keep in mind that being on the road Nuts, seeds, and whole grain crackers, [email protected]. than taking a great ride to enjoy a great meal going in the a.m. and roll forward through food store. Mixed with juice in the morning, with friends may subconsciously affect which provide extra fiber, are also good somewhere away from home. the day from there. Sidestands up! this can be a great way to start your day!) your eating habits. Appetite researcher options. Walnuts, almonds, and cashews And while we all love to eat lunch at that Go easy on the fried stuff (avoid it Dr. Barbara Rolls of Penn State University contain beneficial polyunsaturated fats and roadside barbecue shack that everyone A Powerful Breakfast altogether if you can!), as that’s where all the has done some interesting experiments are easy to travel with. Jerky is another food Choose high-fiber foods, such as whole raves about, the longer the road trip, the fat is hiding. Remember: It’s much harder to showing the effects of socialization on food that travels well and provides protein that fruits instead of juices, oatmeal, or a veggie more important it becomes (as well as more hide once our bodies have stored the fat we consumption. She found that when people keeps you fuller longer. If you crave chips, omelet. Have wheat toast instead of a

24 HOG HOG 25 2012 HARLEY-DAVIDSON® BLACKLINE® AND DYNA® WIDE GLIDE®

E S R T E D E D

Story by John Sandberg + PhotographY by Wes Allison

26 HOG HOG 27 2012 BLACKLINE® AND DYNA® WIDE GLIDE® Why I journey in 2011 as a factory reflection of intentions with the clean lines of a previously the raw, hand-hewn customs being built vintage hardtail frame, wrapped tight thought and ridden by the recent generation of around its rigid-mount Twin Cam 103B™ builders. It’s a genre that prefers its bikes counter-balanced engine and 6-Speed these stripped-to-the-bone, with only flashes of Cruise Drive tranny. chrome instead of the full slathering, and What sets the Blackline apart from cruisers a rider position with fists close together other Softail models is a slammed were so and punching forward against the wind. suspension narrow rear end and ultra- A member of the Softail® family, sculpted seat that produce a ground- similar is a the Blackline delivers on its design hugging 24-inch laden seat height. » bit baffling now.

and a Tommy Gun 2-1-2 collector exhaust with dual mufflers. A low 25.5-inch seat height is courtesy of slammed suspension, while the internally wired handlebar, chopped rear fender, and combined stop/ turn/tail LED lights reflect its minimalist roots. And while it’s available in Vivid Black, three flame color options (including the Vivid Black with Flames version shown here) deliver the style most frequently associated with the model. In contrast to three-plus decades of history, the Blackline motorcycle is one of the youngest models in the Harley- Davidson lineup, having begun its

ruise through the Southern California desert front wheel; sissy bar; low-slung saddle; for 15 hours like Editor Matt King and I did recently, and twin outboard coil-over rear shocks; and subtlety begins to take on a whole new meaning. forward foot controls. After awhile, all rocks cease to appear exactly the same; A one-year hiatus in 2009 gave H-D numerous flowers emerge among the scrub if you train yourself engineers time for a Wide Glide refresh, to to look for them; there’s a significant temperature difference when the road climbs five reflect what was happening on the street hundred feet; the sight of an abandoned building turns from “cool” into a catacomb of as builders and riders customized their Cfailed dreams; and the Harley-Davidson® Blackline® and Dyna® Wide Glide® cease to own cruisers. The result: Many formerly be very similar motorcycles. chrome components (such as rims, sissy Why I previously thought these cruisers were so similar is a bit baffling now. Yes, bar, headlamp bucket handlebar risers, they have a similar long, chopper-like profile and forward foot controls. Yes, both fender supports, and engine covers) were have laced wheels and bobbed fenders. And, yes, each is powered by a Twin Cam 103™ replaced by blackened versions for its engine with 6-Speed Cruise Drive® transmission. But that’s where the similarities reintroduction in 2010. mostly end and the differences (both stark and subtle) begin to emerge. In its current incarnation, the Wide The Wide Glide motorcycle has delivered its stretched attitude since 1980, with its Glide gets its rumble from a rubber- signature elements taking a modern turn in the current model: 49mm front forks, mounted Twin Cam 103 powertrain with raked out to 34 degrees and with a broad spread to accentuate the 21-inch by 2.15-inch Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection

28 HOG HOG 29 2012 BLACKLINE® AND DYNA® WIDE GLIDE®

nearly 2 inch longer wheelbase (68.3 inches vs. 66.5 inches). While I felt a stronger connection with the road and a more consistent feel of the Blackline as it banks into a turn, Editor King found his sweet spot with the Wide Glide. Although neither bike is exactly comfortable when blasting straight into a strong Life is a Journey, headwind at 70 mph for two uninterrupted hours (the consequence of forward foot Ride in Style controls and no significant wind protection), I was less 2012 Diamond Collection fatigued on the Blackline, probably because the narrower bars and forward reach reduced the parachute effect. Conversely, the Wide Glide’s Styling details are equally unique to Riders wider and more laid-back handlebars the Blackline, including a 5-gallon fuel offer more leverage for quick counter- tank with a nearly flush-mount fuel looking for steering, a fact duly noted when working cap and low-profile, die-cast trim panel lane changes during morning rush hour running down the center, rather than a boulevard in Los Angeles. the much larger center console on other cruiser Starting at U.S. MSRP $14,849 for Softail models. A bobbed rear fender is Vivid Black and bumping to $15,554 for held by raw forged supports, with the with a the three two-tone options, the Wide minimalist stop/turn/tail lights combo, stretched, Glide costs a handful of hundreds less all hugging a skinny 144mm Dunlop® than the Blackline, which runs $15,499 tire on a 16-inch rim. low chopper for Vivid Black, $15,884 for Black Denim, The Blackline’s Split Drag handlebar and $15,999 for either of the two two- mounts directly to the top triple clamp, profile are tone options. Both are available with without a traditional riser, and features fortunate the optional Harley-Davidson® Smart internal wiring to further scrub any Security System with hands-free security of the visual clutter. And, I’m happy to have fob and anti-lock brakes. to report, that the bars are indeed these two Riders looking for a boulevard cruiser narrow, with a fists-forward hand with a stretched, low chopper profile are position. Nestled between the bars and options. fortunate to have these two options. For mounted to the top triple clamp is the those who prefer the stripped, raw-edged lone gauge: an analog speedo that also Cruising the bikes from Los Angeles to look and feel of a traditional bobber, the holds indicator lights, including low fuel Lake Havasu, Arizona, stopping to swap Blackline is worth a long look and test warning and miles-to-empty display. rides at nearly every deserted shack and ride. For those looking to cut a wider Whereas the Wide Glide was darkened gas station along the way, the differences path with more visual details, the Wide in its 2010 redux, by comparison much between the Wide Glide and Blackline Glide remains an iconic option. more of the Blackline is finished in black, grow even more apparent. As for me, a previous believer that including the horseshoe oil tank, turn With its 17-inch rear wheel and these were vastly similar motorcycles, signals, triple clamps, fork lowers, and 180mm tire, the Wide Glide isolates I abandoned that thought like an old most of the powertrain. The result is the rider from the road more than the gas station on a mostly forgotten road Harley, Harley-Davidson and the Bar and Shield Logo are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC, © 2012 H-D that the Blackline is far more visually Blackline, despite the latter’s increased in the Mojave Desert. All Rights Reserved Manufactured by MOD Group, Inc. under license from Harley-Davidson Motor Co. understated than the Wide Glide, whose suspension travel (5.6/3.6 inches front/ select chrome components and flame rear vs. 5.0/3.1 inches). It’s a dynamic paint make a strong visual impact. further enhanced by the Wide Glide’s www.modjewelry.com

30 HOG

HOGAd_JUNE2012_v1.indd 1 5/11/2012 3:58:39 PM Not much distinguishes Yucca, Arizona from the surrounding emptiness of the desert. Situated about 40 miles from the Colorado River that separates California and Arizona, and more than two hours from Phoenix or Las Vegas, Yucca is in the proverbial middle of nowhere, which is exactly why Harley- Davidson is here.

32 HOG HOG 33 here aren’t many

signs of life the General Motors Proving Grounds in Mesa, Arizona, which was being closed in Yucca. One down. It was actually the second stint for H-D in Yucca, having previously abandoned gas station been a tenant from 1998 to 2003 under Ford’s ownership. and a few ramshackle In 2010, as part of the company’s overall transformation, which included buildings provide some significant changes within Product Development, manufacturing, and at explanation of why it’s retail, Harley-Davidson consolidated most of its testing operations in Yucca even on a map. from locations in Talladega, Alabama and Naples, Florida. The facilities in Arizona are An exit ramp for Proving Ground Road are run through a gauntlet of grueling now responsible for the testing which had off I-40 provides another clue , and not tests to ensure they meet the high previously been spread across multiple far from that sits an imposing metal gate standards of performance, reliability, and locations. This full vehicle testing includes that ultimately answers the question. durability that Harley-Davidson owners road-surface durability testing, chassis “Hello, who are you here to see?” asks a expect. It’s a playground filled with dynamometer test stands, and state-of- voice over the intercom. After we provide torture tests designed to take motorcycles the-art emissions testing capabilities. an acceptable answer, the gate slides open, to the limits of their abilities, reveal their “We were testing wherever we could and we proceed through. About a mile past weak points, and make them better. find space,” says Nixdorf, “But we’re the gate we stop again at a large guard The facility that now houses the APG vagabonds no more.” Encompassing shack after crossing over what seems to was originally built by the U.S. Army in nearly 4,000 acres and several dozen be another large freeway overpass. Here 1942 as the Yucca Army Airfield. Later, specialized road surface courses, APG we meet Harley-Davidson Manager the base was sold off as “war surplus” now provides Harley-Davidson with a Mike Nixdorf, who’s in charge of Harley- and purchased by Ford Motor Company, comprehensive facility for its vehicle Davidson’s Arizona Proving Ground. which operated it as a hot weather testing operations. APG, as it’s known, is ground zero testing center from 1954 until it was sold “We have a robust product development for Harley-Davidson’s vehicle testing to Chrysler Corporation in 2007. In 2009, process that focuses on creating operations. This is the place where Harley-Davidson moved its Arizona- extraordinary motorcycles that will prototype and production motorcycles based testing operations to Yucca from wow our riders. APG plays an important supporting role in this

Fully instrumented to record suspension process,” said Michelle data, a Sportster® 72 is put through its Kumbier, Harley-Davidson paces on the handling course. senior vice president of product development, who oversees the company’s Product Development Center of which APG is a part. “All of our changes, including those at APG, are focused on improving our speed to market and continuously innovating to deliver products which appeal to more customers around the world.”

34 HOG HOG 35 Left: Even fitted with outriggers, it takes a skilled test rider to negotiate a motorcycle on the skid pad during ABS development. Although gettinG Below left: To ensure Harley-Davidson About 90 Harley-Davidson and motorcycles meet increasingly complex global contract workers are at the proving paid to ride a Harley emissions regulations, samples of exhaust ground, including engineers, technicians, gasses are collected in the emission cell for analysis in the laboratory. mechanics, and test riders – many of whom relocated from the other sites. SOUNDS like a dream Testing is conducted year-round, and, This is an important facet of APG’s depending on the product development job, the Arizona desert testing. Another important focus for cycle, in up to three shifts operating APG, according to Staff Engineer Mike around the clock. “Our customers are CONDITIONS OFTEN CREATE Billetdeaux, is maintaining near-perfect riding at all times of the day, so we need to calibration with similar testing labs test at all times of the day,” Nixdorf says. A GRUELING ENVIRONMENT. located at the Product Development The operations at APG are broken Center in Milwaukee so the data can down into three main areas: vehicle be shared back and forth. Exhaust durability testing, emissions and any road condition you can imagine Although getting paid to ride a gas samples are analyzed weekly to powertrain testing, and vehicle encountering – from the mundane Harley sounds like a dream job, the maintain calibration between the measurement. highway super-slab to dirt and gravel Arizona desert conditions often create two locations. Durability testing is literally where two-tracks to potholed city streets, and a grueling environment. A test rider’s The final area we visited on our tour the rubber meets the road. These are the rain-slicked bridge grating or railroad typical day consists of logging 150-200 of APG was the Vehicle Measurements tests run over smooth and broken roads tracks – is duplicated at APG. Harley- miles during a predetermined test Group (VMG), where test bikes are and through wind, rain, dust, and heat Davidson motorcycles are subjected to schedule that incorporates loops around outfitted with sophisticated data that duplicate the tens or hundreds of thousands of test miles as part of the many of APG’s array of specialized road acquisition equipment capable of thousands of miles of service a Harley- development process. surfaces. These tests are designed by measuring and recording virtually any Davidson motorcycle is expected to In addition to many of the surfaces engineers to not only duplicate normal aspect of the motorcycle’s function. provide during its lifetime. Practically and features built by Ford and Chrysler – riding conditions but also to test the If you need a tri-axial accelerometer including the facility’s signature 5-mile limits of durability under the most to measure how much vibration a rider paved oval track – Harley-Davidson built extreme conditions. All riding is done feels through the handgrips, a linear several courses of its own specifically in full protective gear regardless of potentiometer to measure suspension designed for motorcycle testing, the ambient temperature, which often travel, or a fork-mounted laser to including a 6.5-mile durability loop that reaches above 110 degrees. measure road surface inputs, the VMG, encircles the perimeter of the property Colin Flatt, who coordinates the managed by John Reinartz, is where outside the oval track, an anti-lock brake testing for about 35 test riders, sums it you go. testing pad, and two smaller ride-and- up this way: “We don’t have the luxury The VMG is also where sound pass-by handling courses. of deciding in the morning if we want and brake testing are conducted, and to go for a ride. If it’s hot we ride, these are some of the coolest tests if it’s cold we ride, if it’s raining we we saw at APG. Out on the ABS skid ride, if it’s windy we ride.” At APG, Davidson products and ensuring they’re without taking a break or even stopping pad, glass-smooth basalt and ceramic miserable weather is just another the best they can be. for gas, thanks to a sophisticated built-in blocks are wet to create a road surface opportunity to test the product in There are also various desert critters refueling system that feeds each cell. slicker than a freshly zamboni’d ice real-world conditions. Whatever to contend with, including coyotes, This type of testing saves a lot of wear rink. Even with outriggers mounted on the weather, one thing remains jackrabbits, and rattlesnakes. Accidents and tear on the test riders when the the motorcycle to prevent tip-overs, it unchanged: These riders have a and injuries are rare, but just in case, an primary goal of the test is simply to takes a test rider with special skills to tremendous passion for Harley- ambulance and team of EMTs is on call accumulate thousands of miles under negotiate a stop with or without ABS at all times. conditions where little rider or road on such a slick surface. When test motorcycles aren’t being input is required. Throughout our tour of the Arizona Above left: Massive 54-inch cooling fans flogged out on the road surfaces, they’re In addition to the full-vehicle Proving Ground we were impressed not driven by 75 hp electric motors generate up to 50,000 cfm of airflow to simulate likely to be in one of two other testing simulators, the testing lab includes only by the technology on display but vehicle speeds up to 98 mph. Two of areas at APG: the powertrain testing lab emission testing cells, where Harley- even more so by the engineering talent the cells are equipped with 200 hp fans or the vehicle measurement department. Davidson motorcycles are tested to behind all that testing. You have to know capable of simulating speeds up to 163 mph. Left: Motorcycles mounted on the Over in the powertrain testing lab, ensure they meet the vehicle emission a lot about motorcycles to design and test stand can be remotely operated by full-vehicle test stands are used requirements of every state or country build great ones, and the work being electro-mechanical means to manipulate primarily to accumulate many miles where they’re sold. A Regulatory Affairs done at APG represents an important the throttle, brake, clutch, and shifter. Regenerative power recovered from the in a short amount of time. The team keeps abreast of the various piece of the combined knowledge of dynos helps offset some of the facility’s dynamometers in the test cells can global standards and collaborates nearly 110 years of building Harley- power usage. run 24 hours a day, seven days a week with APG to test these standards. Davidson motorcycles.

36 HOG HOG 37 38 HOG HOG 39 The ride from Halifax was beautiful, gone. We were in “island mode” now, and if a bit chilly, but our adventure didn’t it was time to slow down. really begin until we crossed the Canso Causeway that links Cape Breton Island n the island we spent the first to the rest of Nova Scotia. At that point, Onight in Port Hastings, where we had the divided highway was swapped for dinner with Mary Tulle and Brent Falconer. the two-lane roads and country lanes we Mary, along with Dan Coffin – both from enjoyed for the duration. The stress of the island’s tourist board, Destination Cape running a business back in Colorado was Breton – put together a fantastic itinerary Left: Riding the Cabot Trail at North Bay, Ingonish for our trip. Brent, whom I had actually on the east coast of Cape Breton. Below: The best met a few years earlier in Laconia, helped fish chowder anywhere. Bottom: Neil’s Harbor me connect with some of his local Harley® lighthouse along the Cabot Trail. friends to ride with. Beyond the great riding, I had two priorities for this trip: 1) Seafood, which doesn’t get any fresher than on this island!; and 2) Celtic music! The “Distant Sons and Daughters” concert Glenora Inn & Distillery that evening offered an overview of the his small operation in Glenville festival with performers from Scotland, Tis on MacLellan’s Brook, from Ireland, Cape Breton, Appalachia, and which it gets its key ingredient: water. even Louisiana. It was every bit as It was the first distillery to make amazing as I anticipated. single malt whisky outside of Scotland The next day was our first chance to and still has the distinction of being really experience riding on the island, the only Canadian single malt whisky. and what a beautiful day it was. The While the distillery was being built in sun shone in a gorgeous blue sky, 1988, the founders traveled to Scotland and the temperature was perfect. We to purchase copper pot stills, a mash headed up the west coast along what tun, and the wooden washbacks is appropriately named “the needed for the distilling process. And Ceilidh Trail” (pronounced while their product is in the style “Kay-Lee”) for the many Ceilidhs of single malt Scotch whisky, you – social gatherings focused on can’t call it “Scotch” if it isn’t made in music and dance – in the towns Scotland! Note: Generally speaking, along the route. The area is it’s proper to write “Irish whiskey” and rich in musical heritage and “Scotch whisky” (with no “e”). It’s also also houses the Celtic Music generally “whisky” in Canada and I couldn’t believe my fortune when I was asked last Interpretive Centre in Judique. “whiskey” in the United States. And if fall to do a motorcycle travel story on Cape Breton Island off the east coast of Canada. Our first stop of the day you get it wrong … you’ll hear about it! It isn’t often someone gets to combine so many interests and passions into a single was at the Dalbrae Academy visit www.glenoradistillery.com trip, but that’s exactly what happened with this trip of a lifetime. in Mabou for a step-dancing Cape Breton has long been near the top of my bucket list of travel destinations. lesson, and Catherine quickly Friends at my local Sunday night Irish music sessions (I play the penny flute) have joined in. Coming from been telling me about it for years – the natural beauty, the amazing musical heritage, Ireland, where she learned The more we saw of this charming and the annual Celtic Colours International Festival in the fall. So when HOG® editor step dancing, she caught on place, the more we wished we had Matt King asked if I could go to a Cape Breton musical festival in October, I knew he quickly even though some scheduled a stopover for the night. was talking about Celtic Colours. of her Irish footwork had to But we had a concert to see across the I was in heaven. Not only would this trip involve riding a new Harley-Davidson® be replaced with its Scottish island, so after an amazing bowl of motorcycle with locals, I would get a daily dose of fine Celtic music, incredible equivalent, since the Celtic mid-afternoon seafood chowder and seafood was assured, and, of course, I would be there to take photographs. To top it traditions of Cape Breton look not much more than a whiff of the all off, my wife, Catherine, would come with me. more to Scottish roots. From “Glen Breton Rare,” we were off to a Our trip started from Halifax, the capital of the maritime province of Nova Scotia, Dalbrae, we went straight for potluck supper in Whycocomagh. 330 miles from the U.S. border in Northern Maine. John Larson and the helpful staff the whiskey and the main stop These wonderful community-based at Privateers Harley-Davidson set us up with a beautiful 2012 Ultra, the perfect rig for of the day, a tour of the Glenora meals are served in firehouses, churches, riding two-up with our gear and my camera equipment. Inn & Distillery. legion halls, and community centers all »

40 HOG HOG 41 Far left: Riding by Scotch Cove on the road between Smelt Brook and White Point, Cape Breton. Left: David Spencer playing the character of Jean François LaGuerre with his reproduction 1734 Grenadier’s Flintlock muzzle loader musket that he fires daily at the Fortress of Louisbourg.

discussing the ride ahead. Then we met Cape Breton Highlands National Park, up with Darrell and Sharon LaFosse on only to come back out onto the sea again. their Ultra Classic® Police Officer Special You can do it in a day, but we planned (Darrell just retired from the “Mounties,” for two to have a little breathing room the Royal Canadian Mounted Police), and to enjoy it. Three days would have been Andre Burton on his Electra Glide® Classic. great and four even better. After taking the opportunity to learn How can you not feel wonderful with a little history with a quick tour of the the perfect weather on these perfect college – and a quick photo op with motorcycling roads? Ashley MacIsaac, the internationally Our first stop was at a couple of artists’ acclaimed Cape Breton fiddler, whom we workshops, including glass blowing in ran into in the gift shop – we set off to North Shore and a leather shop in Indian ride one of the most spectacular stretches Brook. Continuing back on our way to of road anywhere: the Cabot Trail. Wreck Cove, where we met up with the sea, we hugged the twisty coastline as we lexander Graham Bell said: started up Cape Smokey Mountain. This A“I have traveled around the world. is Cape Breton and the “Highlands” at its I have seen the Canadian and American finest. We stopped at lookout after lookout Rockies, the Andes, the Alps, and the to gaze in wonder at the mountains Highlands of Scotland, but for simple and sea below the gorgeous blue sky. At beauty, Cape Breton out rivals them all.” one stop, we ran into a Royal Canadian The 185-mile Cabot Trail is a series of Mounted Police officer named Shawn, connecting roads that create a circular one of a number we encountered – none route around the island. It hugs the of whom were on a horse. As he and rugged coastline, cuts into cliffs as it rises Darrell chatted, I realized Darrell was one from the sea, and winds its way through well-connected rider. Before the day’s ride » over the island during the festival. They’re and headed straight to the “Pickin’ & left, though we could easily have stayed a great way to meet people and get a sense Grinnin’” concert at the nearby Culture much longer. The ride home was slow of the local culture. For this particular and Heritage Centre in Wagmatcook. and cold, and we were grateful not to see More Than Just Irish meal, music scholarship recipient Anita After the concert we jumped back on a moose. Come to think of it, we never eltic music has influenced and infused so many MacDonald treated us to her solo fiddle the bike for a brisk 13-mile ride to the saw a car, either. Cother styles of music – Bluegrass, Old-Timey, Country, playing from the small stage. college. Not that this day wasn’t full After the late night, morning came a and Cajun – that the festival includes all these into their The sun was setting as we rode to enough, but I knew the Festival Club, an little sooner than I anticipated, but the programming. Irish singer Mary Black, whose music we have our hotel in Baddeck along the shores of informal late-night session at the Gaelic gorgeous day made it easy to forget how listened to for years, was one of our favorites as she sang with Bras d’Or Lakes, a large, mostly saltwater, College that doesn’t even open until little we slept. After Brent showed up three equally acclaimed siblings. The highlight of the opening lake in the heart of Cape Breton. We 11PM, would be hopping. It was even on his bright yellow Road King,® along “Distant Sons and Daughters” concert was surely the encore, checked into the Inverary Inn (full of better than I imagined, as musicians with Greg Hull on his red Street Glide,® when 16 musicians, including the entire Black family, took to character), dropped our bags in a large from all around the island showed up to we sat in the inn’s restaurant for coffee the stage together. but cozy room warmed by a fireplace, perform. It was 2:30AM by the time we and soaked in the spectacular view while

42 HOG HOG 43 came to an end, we had stopped at Broad Cove, Lakies Back on the bikes, attraction that we squeezed in on our Head, and Green Cove, as well. we quickly dropped way back to Halifax. The Fortress of Day 1 on the Cabot Trail ended at the Keltic Lodge to the coast into an Louisbourg National Historic Site, which on Middlehead in Ingonish, even though our intended area known as Grande offered fascinating insight into the destination lay further ahead. It was getting late Falaise, just north of complicated history of the island, was a when we came to this historic old lodge that juts out Chetticamp, a major great way to wrap things up. into the water on a small piece of land that divides Acadian community. After we dropped the bike off at the South Bay Ingonish from North Bay Ingonish. We After saying good-bye dealership and turned our thoughts knew if we went further we would miss too much in there to Andre, Darrell, toward home, I reflected on what an the dark. There was a beautiful restaurant and lounge, and Sharon, the rest of amazing journey we’d been on, a rare along with wonderful backgrounds for photos. For us continued back to opportunity to combine many of my someone with more time here, the hiking trails and the docks of Baddeck, passions into one trip. It made me golf are said to be fantastic. where our posse split up realize there’s no reason to wait for such Day 2 began with the realization that we hadn’t further. Catherine and I opportunities to come along. made the halfway mark, so without dwelling on were back on our own to I resolved to make them happen more the time we didn’t have, we rode without stopping check in at the Inverary often. Should you decide to follow my through the small picturesque community of North Inn and explore the tracks on Cape Breton, be sure to make Bay Ingonish. We didn’t really stop until we got to the local scene. the most of it – in whatever way suits Chowder House near the lighthouse in Neil’s Harbor. The food, in general, you. Check out the resources listed, and It was closed for the season, but it was nice to sit out had been excellent, and consider stopping at one of the area back at their picnic tables alongside the sea. it was to be no different H-D® dealers to get the local bikers’ From Neil’s Harbor, we got off the main park road in Baddeck, where we perspective of everything going on. to follow the coastline over South Mountain. This had a unique dinner at a You don’t have to love Celtic music to took us up and down and in and out to the little restaurant simply called enjoy the island during Celtic Colours. fishing community of White Point on Aspy Bay. At “Lobster Suppers.” For And there are other festivals dedicated Effie’s Brook near South Harbor, we met up with John Cabot touched land there to become just CD$33, dinner included a good-sized to food and wine, running, and even the Cabot Trail and the main park road, which we the first European on North American lobster and all you could eat of every a bike event in early August. Whether followed for 20 minutes to Cabot’s Landing. In 1497, soil (if you don’t count the Vikings and other course: local mussels by the bucket, your other passions include golf, hiking, understanding that Columbus actually seafood chowder, salad, cornbread, and whale watching, sightseeing, boating, landed in the Caribbean). dessert – all of it excellent. food, or a host of other options, tying From Cabot’s Landing, we were less You might think we would be ready for your interests to your touring will than a kilometer from Darrell and bed after a meal like this, but there was ensure the most memorable trip. Sharon’s house. Somehow, Sharon had a music waiting for us in tiny North River. It certainly worked for me. pot of coffee and a plate of homemade The concert, called “Down the Road and cookies out before we could find the door, Across the Sea,” was presented in the so we took a few minutes to enjoy their North River Community Hall, a quaint peaceful spot right on the water. Poking wooden multi-purpose building. It was my head around, it was easy to realize the perfect place to present folk songs Darrell wasn’t just a retired Mountie but of Scotland, Ireland, and Cape Breton, rather a Mountie of quite high rank. The while experiencing small town life on photos of him with Queen Elizabeth II this island. were a dead giveaway. And just in case my wife might think Here we were again – I was distracted, the day was too short, I pointed the For more information, visit and the day was getting on. We had to bike toward the late-night music at www.celtic-colours.com make up time to get to the end of the trail the Festival Club 20 miles up the road. by the end of the day, so Andre, who knows Despite not having to be up at the crack For more photographs, every inch of these roads, led us straight up of dawn the next day, we again left early visit www.lichterphoto.com North Mountain, across the “Boars Back” – and were back in our hotel by 3AM. connecting Mackenzie Mountain to French Destination Cape Breton Mountain – to a spot Sharon describes as ur trip was winding down. But www.cbisland.com her favorite place on the Cabot Trail: the Othere was still a feast of feasts to be lookout point above Pleasant Bay, where had at Mary’s house the next day (more she says you can see both Minke and lobster than I’ve ever had in a single Pothead whales on a clear day. sitting!), more music, and one last tourist

44 HOG HOG 45 A LITTLE HELP FR OM MY FRIENDS There’s nothing like hanging out with 2,500 new friends to remind you why you ride. I ventured deep into the heart of Cajun country to attend the Louisiana State H.O.G.® Rally and found – amidst all the food, music, and riding – “You meet the nicest people on a … Harley®!” Story & Photography by Glen Abbott

46 HOG HOG 47 Louisiana State H.O.G. Rally

So you could say I was a bit overdue from Oxnard, California with two of her when I decided to attend the Louisiana girlfriends, because “In HOG magazine it I finally State H.O.G. Rally, April 19-21, in Lafayette, was the first rally listed, and it said, Laissez Louisiana. les bon temps roulez! I said, ‘I’m there!’” Like most H.O.G. members, I always Or Victor Bonilla of Scottsdale, Arizona, eagerly awaited my yearly pin, patch, who plans to attend 17 H.O.G. rallies get it. and Touring Handbook, as well as the this year; ride through every state in next issue of HOG® magazine. Chapter the continental U.S., nine Canadian Admittedly, I’m a meetings and rallies? Not so much. provinces, and into Mexico. He’s a man slow learner. Since You see I’m a loner, a rebel. There are on a mission: “This year I want to be things about me you wouldn’t understand. number one in the ABCs of Touring joining Harley Things you couldn’t understand. Things contest. I noticed the 2011 winner had 144 Owners Group® in you shouldn’t understand. points. I’m calculating about 170 to 174. 1994 after buying my If you don’t understand, you probably So I’m going to hit everything except for haven’t seen the 1985 film Pee-wee’s Big two states, and I might even make Alaska first Harley – a silver Adventure. The scene where Pee-wee and Hawaii.” Sounds like the other ABCs and white FLSTN – wins over the biker gang by dancing atop participants will have their work cut out the bar to the song “Tequila” is one of my for them this year. I had been to only all-time favorites – but I digress. Or rally coordinator Carl Player two H.O.G. rallies: I always just wanted to ride. Like Pee-wee, from Lafayette’s Cajun H.O.G. Chapter, it was all about me and my bike. I hadn’t who paused to wipe away tears while the Kansas State realized what I was missing out on. discussing what Harley-Davidson Rally in 1994 and If I hadn’t gone to the Louisiana State means to him: “It’s the camaraderie. It’s H.O.G. Rally, I wouldn’t have met people the friendship, it’s the family. We are a Mexico National like 67-year-old Terry Crawford, who large family. I couldn’t ask for a better Rally in 2003. rode her 2009 Street Glide® 2,200 miles family. If one of my members got sick,

Left: Every patch tells a story of rides and Another thing that struck me: It doesn’t family. It’s just, let’s ride and have fun.” memories. Above, clockwise from top left: The Parade of Flags includes riders bearing matter who you are, what you look like, I learned each state rally has a character their chapter flags. Cajun H-D hosts the or what you do for a living. “I’ve talked to all its own. Lafayette is in the heart of opening night dealer party. Waiting to compete people from Oklahoma, from Texas, from Acadiana – Cajun country – an area in the Civilian Expert Rider Competition. Bachman & Turner takin’ care of business. Mississippi, from Alabama,” said Keith with unique food, music, and culture, Bike games feature imaginative contests. Mouton, who just returned to Lafayette all of which could be found in spades at Road Captain Chuck Stafford leads a after 10 years living and working in Saudi the rally. “We love to eat, if you haven’t pre-Tabasco factory ride safety briefing. Arabia. “You don’t have to do nothin’ but noticed that yet,” Gene told me with a say, ‘Man, you got a nice bike,’ and then laugh. Gene is a lifelong born-and-bred all I’d have to do is make a phone call the conversation starts, you know? Here, Cajun. The slogan on his business card and there’d be 100 people there to help. as long as you ride a Harley, you’re around reads, “Vivre pour Monter – Monter pour If someone goes down, there are 500 other Harleys, it doesn’t matter where Vivre.” Even without my rusty high school people there to help. It’s just a family you’re at, what color your skin is, doesn’t French, I figured out what that means. like there’s no family before.” matter. Everybody is so friendly, they Cajun cuisine was something out- Those were just several of many don’t mind talking to you, it just makes it of-state visitors seemed to particularly people I met and talked with in really neat.” enjoy. “I’m all about the food,” said David Lafayette at the year’s first state rally. “Everybody is from all walks of life,” Phillips, who rode to the rally with a Almost without exception, everyone Carl added. “We have people who are group of fellow firefighters from Abilene, there shared something in common, blue-collar workers. We have white- Texas. “When we come to Louisiana, we a point emphasized by Gene Faulk, collar workers. We have judges, we have eat crawfish as many days in a row as we assistant director of the Cajun Chapter. doctors. We have lawyers, attorneys, possibly can because it’s something we “They all ride Harleys, they all love their and it doesn’t matter. When we’re riding can’t get where we live.” Harleys, they love to talk about their together, the one on your right may be a The opening night dealer party at Harleys, and they love to hear about judge, but he’s your friend, okay. And you Cajun Harley-Davidson featured mouth- your Harley,” he said. don’t know who he is, but he’s part of that watering jambalaya from Chef Richard »

HOG 49 Louisiana State H.O.G. Rally

night event – cooking 800 pounds of denim and leather, all rocking to the pork sausage, 250 pounds of onion, same groove. and 100 pounds of green onion, not to Let’s review, shall we? Food, music, mention all the rice and Cajun spices that riding, camaraderie, events – I haven’t make jambalaya jambalaya. even mentioned the biker games, riding Did I mention boudin and cracklin? skills competition, and people’s choice On a guided group ride to the Tabasco bike show – a H.O.G. rally is chock- CAJUN SPICE Sauce factory on Avery Island, we full of opportunities to meet fellow Five Ways to Heat Up the Bayou

Each state H.O.G. rally offers unlimited opportunities to make new friends, ride new “you know what? With the areas, try different foods, and experience local culture. And who would know the area better than the host H.O.G. chapter? With rally, it’s about the journey that in mind, here are five great suggestions on how to get the most from your next visit to Cajun country. AND the destination.” 1 Prejean’s Restaurant LAFAYETTE Best fried alligator around. prejeans.com stopped at Legnon’s Boucherie in New enthusiasts and discover the best riding Iberia for a demonstration of boudin in the host area. 2 D.I.’S CAJUN FOOD & MUSIC BASILE making and cracklin frying. Cracklins are “You know, this is like a gigantic Real Cajun atmosphere with authentic fried pork rinds (I’m personally not a big family reunion,” said Val Ledterman, Cajun food, music, and dancing. fan), but boudin (pronounced boo-DAN in H.O.G. regional manager. Val puts discajunrestaurant.biz the Cajun dialect) may just be the finest more than 25,000 miles a year on her 3 Vermilionville Living History Museum food known to mankind, in my humble company-issued 2012 Road Glide® Ultra, & Folklife Park LAFAYETTE opinion. The delicacy is a tender blend riding from rally to rally in her seven- Excellent place to learn all about of ground pork, rice, and spices, stuffed state region (consisting of a total of 104 Cajun culture. into a sausage casing. Owner Ted Legnon different H.O.G. chapters and 154,000 bayouvermilion.org demonstrated how he makes boudin and members), coordinating with the H.O.G. 4 Acadian Village LAFAYETTE told us he sells, on average, 1,200 pounds member volunteers, who make the rallies Learn about early Cajun life and history. daily from his small shop. So you know it happen, and the local dealers. “There are acadianvillage.org has to be good! 47 state H.O.G. rallies, and this is the first 5 Cajun Music Hall of Fame Musical entertainment? For starters, one of the rally season,” she explained. Cajun musician Wayne Toups kicked off “This is about getting the bike out of & Museum EUNICE Museum hostess Irene Reed is a fount the dealer party with a unique style of the garage. This is about tuning up, this of information on Cajun music. music he calls “ZyDeCajun.” is about being back with the family eunice-la.com/depot_hof.html “It’s Cajun rhythm and blues that’ll after you’ve kind of been away from rock your socks off,” he said. “It has a everybody for awhile.” touch of Southern rock, ala Allman This may have been my first H.O.G. Brothers, a little bit of Delbert McClinton, rally after many years away, but with Bijeaux of Café Josephine in nearby Stevie Ray Vaughn, but I use a squeeze genuine enthusiasm and sincerity Sunset, Louisiana – some of the best I’ve box to interpret what I’m talkin’ about.” I assure you it won’t be my last. I had ever tasted. “It comes straight from the Kick-ass stuff! way too much fun not to return. heart, bud,” Chef Richard told me. “This And to wrap up the rally, 70s The last word goes to Terry, that is what it’s about. I’m full-blooded Cajun. supergroup Bachman & Turner kicked 67-year-old lady who rode halfway ONLY GENUINE HARLEY-DAVIDSON® CLEANING PRODUCTS ARE CUSTOM FORMULATED Wouldn’t wanna be anything else. I am it into overdrive, rockin’ the Cajundome across the country; she offered a twist TO CLEAN, PROTECT, AND DETAIL the premium surfaces of your Harley-Davidson what I am, I’m what God made me, and Convention Center with hits including on a popular rider’s phrase: “You know motorcycle. Metal. Paint. Leather and vinyl. Wheels and tires. Windshields. They’ll all this is what I’m supposed to be doing.” “You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet,” “Let it Ride,” what? With the rally, it’s about the According to Bijeaux, he served 1,400 and the rock anthem finale “Takin’ Care journey AND the destination.” look better for longer when you trust them to the company whose name they bear. happy H.O.G. members at the opening- of Business.” The audience was a sea of H-D.COM/SURFACECARE

50 HOG ©2012 H-D. Harley-Davidson, H-D, Harley and the Bar & Shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC. Far left: Monument at Fort Parker; Top left: Fort Parker; Bottom left: Brian and his bike. RIDES

$100 the fort’s 12-foot-tall log walls. On May 19, 1836 the fort proved insufficient. Around 8AM, while most of the men were out

Epic Adventures Don’t Require Epic Dollars working their farms, 500-700 Indian warriors, predominantly fierce Comanche, approached the fort. Only five men were present to defend the women and children. The men saw defense was impossible and decided to sacrifice themselves, while the women and children escaped. In what became the “Fort Parker Massacre,” the men were killed, and one woman and four children were captured – the majority successfully escaped. One captured child was Cynthia Ann Parker. Fort Parker has been lost to time, but 75 years ago an authentic replica was built. While there, I stood where John’s son Benjamin Parker would have been when he looked to the east and saw certain death approaching. The men were buried in a mass grave just south of the fort, in what is now Fort Parker Memorial Park. Their burial site is commemorated with a 30-foot-tall monument. I took a moment and paid my respects to those long-dead heroes. Four hundred miles of touring complete, my ride home was zen-like.

Texas Rangers

to Sul Ross, who led the attack that freed Cynthia Ann Parker and Other Heroes in 1860 after nearly 25 years in Comanche captivity, to Frank By Brian Dowsley Hamer, who was wounded no less than 17 times – and dished out a lot more than he received. Heroism. The purpose of my two-day ride was to visit nearly always the case. Traffic permitting, I deploy my freeway The next stop of my tour was in Mexia (pronounced Ma- sites devoted to larger-than-life bravery: the Texas Ranger Hall pegs, lean back against my gear, crank up the volume, and hay-ah) and the Gibbs Memorial Library that had 1920s Mexia of Fame and Museum in Waco, Old Fort Parker near Mexia, and cruise. Along that southbound route, I enjoyed a new law that oil boom photos. During the boom, when Mexia’s population a 175-year-old mass grave. I planned to fill the gaps with eight raised many Interstate speed limits to 75 mph. Ooh-rah! jumped from 4,000 to 40,000, anarchy prevailed. The ABCs of Touring contest stops, library research, and camping I arrived at the Texas Ranger Museum 165 miles later. The governor sent in 13 Rangers led by Captain Hamer to restore and dining in outdoor solitude. first thing I saw upon entering was a copy of The Dallas Morning order. The library had an actual photo of Hamer standing in Just prior to leaving, I told my wife I had decided to live on News from May 24, 1934. Its headlines shouted, “Posse Kills front of the Winter Garden, a saloon-bordello that was shut the wild side. She looked at me oddly, and I explained, “I’m Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker … Elusive Dallas Desperados down and converted into a military prison. going to the Texas Ranger Museum, and I’m going to listen to Shot to Death in Louisiana.” Texas Ranger Captain Frank Hamer The evening’s lodging was at Fort Parker State Park, five The Outlaws all the way.” led that posse. miles south of Mexia. Camp established, I enjoyed a gourmet She’s used to this and didn’t even roll her eyes. “Ride safe.” The museum was chock-full of pistols, rifles, Bowie knives, fish dinner, and some peace and quiet – except when raccoons The $100 Challenge If you have a $100 Ride story to share, we With my 2008 Ultra Classic® loaded to the gills (camping and even a Thompson sub-machine gun. One display let visitors assaulted a nearby aluminum trash can at zero-dark-thirty. want to see it. If it appears in HOG® magazine, we’ll even foot gear, cookware, dinner supplies, etc.), I set out and headed handle an old Colt Walker – all 4.5 pounds of it. In addition to My final touring stops involved Old Fort Parker. the bill – in the form of a $100 Harley-Davidson™ Gift Card. Keep first west toward Dallas and then south toward Waco. Weather the weapons, the museum was filled with artwork, including In 1833, John Parker and 30 friends and family left Illinois your story to 750 words or less, including a list of your expenses. conditions were ideal: upper 50s, slightly overcast, and calm. bronze statues and paintings. and settled about five miles south of modern-day Mexia. They We also need photography from your adventure, including a Unlike most riders, I enjoy the Interstate system, especially The Hall of Fame honors 30 courageous individuals from built a four-acre fort featuring two elevated blockhouses photo of you. E-mail your submission with “$100 Rides” as the if I have a lot of miles to cover and a full schedule – which is Jack Hays, who established Ranger traditions in the 1830s, guarding the front and rear gates. Small gun ports penetrated subject line to [email protected].

52 HOG HOG 53 Discovery Phased Out IN APRIL THIS YEAR I WAS AT THE AIR AND SPACE CENTER at Dulles International Airport admiring the retired Space Shuttle Discovery, when a Virginia State Police officer rode up on his Harley-Davidson® motorcycle, apparently as part of a photo shoot. So I asked if we could get in on the Enthusiasts once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity. The officer was happy to cooperate, even moving into the best position for my photo. I’ve seen so many pictures over the years of Harley- Davidson riders and their motorcycles in famous places and next to famous objects, and I thought this would be a nice addition to that collection. I’m a Navy vet and a H.O.G.® life member, and I think the shuttle and Harley® together – two of the greatest machines ever made – capture the spirit of adventure and freedom we all feel when we ride.

LENNY FRANCIONI ODENTON, MARYLAND

54 HOG HOG 55 Enthusiasts

THE GOOD LIFE SPUR OF THE MOMENT

After not riding for 20 years, a friend of mine recently renewed his Generally I’m not one to make spontaneous decisions. However, interest and bought a Harley. I wasn’t in favor of the decision at first after not having a bike for almost 30 years, I sat on a Street Glide® and had no interest in riding on the back. Then I thought, “Why not in 2007 and fell in love. A few days later, I bought it. Over the next get my own bike?” I signed up for a motorcycle safety course and couple of years I went whole hog (pun intended) upgrading and eagerly waited for that fateful weekend to arrive. Learning to ride personalizing. Anne, my wife of more than 30 years, rode with was difficult. I found myself on the ground more than once and didn’t me as a passenger almost everywhere. We had a blast. The best pass the class the first time around – but I persevered! I’m sure the development came in 2010 when Anne declared she wanted her instructors had no idea how committed I was. I bought a bike (not own bike. She took a riding class and was soon the proud owner a Harley!), began to practice on my own, and soon returned to the of a new Softail® Deluxe, which she immediately dressed out in school and obtained my license. Then after about six months I sold feminine fashion. We’ve since added a 2012 Fat Boy® Lo to the my “starter bike” and bought a Harley-Davidson Sportster® 883! I have collection – to share. Our Harley motorcycles have opened more than 3,000 miles on it and love every time I get the opportunity a whole new world of experiences to us. Buying one was to ride. And now I have my heart set on a Dyna® Super Glide®! clearly the best spontaneous decision I’ve ever made!

JUDIE GOODLIFFE BILL KELLY SCOTCH PLAINS, NEW JERSEY PALM BAY, FLORIDA

WINDY CITY RIDERS AMERICAN PRIDE This picture was taken from Chicago’s Montrose Harbor on the north I’ve been a Harley enthusiast for 20 years. I’m Mexican by birth side of the city, where three of us met for our journey to the Harley- and very proud to feel part of American history when I ride my Davidson Museum® in Milwaukee. The weather was perfect for Harley-Davidson motorcycle. My father always had a Harley in our riding, though we did hit some strong crosswinds as we got away garage, and today I’m a salesperson at Laredo Harley-Davidson. from the city. Our visit to Milwaukee was short, but we had enough I love my job selling Harleys to people, encouraging them to buy time for a nice lunch at Motor® Bar & Restaurant at the Museum. American for so many reasons. Here I am with one of my two We’re already looking forward to our next visit. Pictured are H.O.G. “princesses”: my 2000 FLHR Road King®; my other is a 2011 members Rich Ballot with his tricked-out 2005 Road King, me with Forty-Eight.® my Heritage Softail, and Scott Harrell with the 2008 Ultra Classic.®

RUDY GARZA BILL ATKIELS LAREDO, TEXAS CARY, ILLINOIS

WOMAN GONE WILD HOCKEY STARS

I always wanted to ride, but not coming from a biker background In March, my wife, Leslie, and I were able to combine two of our made my family wonder where I got this “wild streak”! At age passions: our 2009 Harley-Davidson Road King and Dallas Stars 46 and with the kids all grown, my husband, Fernando, thought hockey. Steve Ott, left winger and overall mauler for the Stars, it was as good a time as ever with gas prices the way they were. organized a ride from Lewisville, Texas to the American Airlines So I took a class, and he bought me a 2001 XLH. Our friend from Center (AAC) in Dallas. Former Stars players Craig Ludwig and Richard church told us that H.O.G. is a great group of people, so we went Matvichuk signed autographs, and then led the rally to the game to a meeting and joined. Everyone was so nice, and soon I was versus the Calgary Flames. More than 200 bikes formed a police- appointed as the greeter. We went on day rides, and as I got more escorted line down Highway 35 to the AAC, where we parked on the and more comfortable I went on longer rides. Eventually I wanted main plaza for a pep rally. After the game, Ott led the group to an something a little meatier, and we were blessed to purchase a after-party on his custom chopper, where he posed for hundreds of 2012 FLSTN Deluxe. Plenty of extras have gone on her, and she is a photos and signed more autographs. The ride was a huge success, dream! Fernando has been known to say, “You used to buy all kinds raising more than $12,000 for the Dallas Stars Foundation. of handbags and heels … now you buy chrome and leather!” We’re Pictured with me are two new “friends” I made at the event. having a blast, and I’m so thankful to him and H.O.G. for all the great times I’m having! JOHN LARSON SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS MARILYN CASTILLO LA HABRA, CALIFORNIA 56 HOG HOG 57 Enthusiasts

THEN AND NOW April 17, 2012 was my 50th anniversary of buying my first new motorcycle – a 1962 Harley-Davidson 175cc BT model called a Pacer This is a photo of my grandparents with my grandfather’s new – when I was 14 years old. In the half-century since, I’ve bought 1938 Harley-Davidson motorcycle. It was taken in northern eight new Harley-Davidson motorcycles, as well as five vintage Wisconsin before they were married. Seventy years later, Harleys that I’ve restored. I bought them all from authorized I’m on my new 2008 Softail Deluxe. Good things must run in H-D dealerships in the area, and I always say: If you love Harley- the family! Davidson motorcycles you become part of the family!

DEBBIE BOBHOLZ GILBERT S. (STEVE) CORNISH FRIESLAND, WISCONSIN BURLESON, TEXAS

My uncle recently gave my dad this picture of my grandfather, taken This is a photo of my grandfather sitting on his early Harley- in 1952 with his 1948 Harley-Davidson. My grandfather rarely talked Davidson motorcycle, taken sometime between 1915 and 1920. about himself, so none of us knew much about his riding days. I have his New Hampshire motorcycle license plate from 1918 but Before seeing this picture, I purchased my first bike, a 2012 H-D® would love to know exactly what year his bike was. He worked for Forty-Eight, which takes inspiration from the original 1948 model. the Ford Motor Company for 30-some years, so his passion was What an awesome coincidence! My dad and I have been riding Harley-Davidson and Ford vehicles. I’m on my fourth Harley, a 2007 together since I got it, him on his Ultra Classic and me on FLHT Standard, and have been a H.O.G. member since 1999. This year my Forty-Eight. my daughter is taking the rider safety course so she can continue the family heritage with Harley-Davidson. LAURA CRAIG MANSFIELD, TEXAS RICK POTTLE DANIELSON, CONNECTICUT

58 HOG HOG 59 Enthusiasts For nearly 30 years, Harley-Davidson® motorcycles have rolled out of the factory on the only motorcycle tires made FALLING FOR WISCONSIN in the U.S.A.—Dunlop tires, manufactured in Buffalo, NY. And despite worldwide economic challenges Dunlop never We began our riding experience with a pre-owned 2007 V-Rod.® It was a lot of fun, but after a few longer trips we realized it wasn’t halted its efforts to advance the state of motorcycle tire the best fit for our riding style. So on Memorial Day weekend of performance, bringing innovations to riders that were 2010 we picked up our brand-new 2010 Ultra Classic, which we have developed at our Dunlop Proving Grounds in Huntsville,AL, thoroughly enjoyed ever since. This beautiful photo was taken in and proven on highways and byways across America. And Door County, Wisconsin last fall. As you can see, it was a wonderful that means only one motorcycle tire company owns such a autumn day with abundant sunshine – and nothing beats the fall solid made-in-America connection with Harley-Davidson colors in northern Wisconsin! We now have 10,000-plus miles on our Ultra and are eagerly planning our next ride with friends. owners: Dunlop.

DON AND PATTI BIRMINGHAM NEW FRANKEN, WISCONSIN MADE CONNECTICUT YANKEE

New England offers a too-short riding season for the true enthusiast. But the scenery is absolutely beautiful when the season allows for riding. I like nothing better than to sit my 69-year-old IN THE body comfortably in the seat of my 1999 FXDWG Wide Glide® and spend a day taking as much of it in as I can. Getting “lost” is great, and I really enjoy swinging off the main roads to see what lies beyond the next hill or curve on Ol’ Pig Swamp Hollow Road. It’s what I do. And I’m planning to continue doing it for many years to come. U.S.A.

HIRAM “HI” KELSEY SOUTHINGTON, CONNECTICUT

MOM’S TURN

This photo is of my mother and me on my 2011 FLHTC. It was her first-ever motorcycle ride – in celebration of her 77th birthday! My mom has always been supportive of my motorcycling ever since I got my first motorcycle at age 8 and my first Harley in 1992. I finally convinced her to give it a try, and she really enjoyed it. She was amazed at the feeling of freedom and how much more she could smell the fresh air.

MATT BOWMAN WATKINSVILLE, GEORGIA

™ ™ SEND YOUR SUBMISSIONS for Enthusiasts to [email protected]. Be sure to include high-quality photos, as well as D408F /D407 For more Dunlop tire information go to dunlopmotorcycle.com your name, address, phone number, and e-mail address. You can also mail submissions to Enthusiasts, c/o HOG magazine, P.O. Box 453, or call 800-845-8378. ©2012 Dunlop. Milwaukee, WI 53201. Do not overload your tires—check your owner’s manual for the vehicle load capacity as well as the maximum load molded on the tire sidewall. Check your tire pressure frequently and always before extended trips. Obey all traffic and safety laws. Dunlop does not endorse or encourage exceeding safe, legal speed limits. 60 HOG Harley and Harley-Davidson are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC. WISCONSIN SOUTH DAKOTA MINNESOTA

WYOMING

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The Leather tight zigzag pattern repeated perpendicularly over itself for the your epic ride on Route 66 or wherever ultimate reinforcement. is in the Details Five-ply nylon thread adds strength to select high-stressed your adventures take you. seams, while other seams are joined using the double-needle Frequently called the “Harley uniform,” the leather topstitching technique to minimize the amount of exposed seam riding jacket is nearly as iconic as the motorcycle itself. But just and to enhance durability. To minimize bulk at the seams, each as all motorcycles are not the same, neither are leather jackets, stitched seam is skived to thin out the cut edges of the leather. which is why Harley-Davidson® Genuine MotorClothes® leather Other design elements further focus on comfort, including jackets demand closer inspection. Because it’s what you don’t see pre-curved sleeves that match the natural arm position while ® that truly defines them. riding, action back (the deep pleats at the back of each shoulder) With more than 1,200 Rider-Friendly Whether it’s a lightweight (0.6mm-0.8mm thick, ideal for warm for maximum mobility when your arms are in the straightforward weather conditions), midweight (0.9mm-1.0mm, for all weather riding position, and zippered air vents for custom cooling control. hotels in North America, you can rest conditions), or heavyweight (1.1mm or greater, for strongest Most MotorClothes leather jackets also offer customizable resistance to abrasion and wind-blocking) leather, MotorClothes protection via built-in pockets for adding accessory body armor. easy knowing that you and your bike are leather jackets feature drum-dyed hides. Located in key impact areas, such as the shoulders, elbows, and During the drum-dying process, prepared skins are soaked for back, the lightweight polymer armor naturally forms to the rider’s well taken care of. an extended period in a large drum of natural dye that penetrates shape and absorbs energy upon impact. all the way through the hide and then are tumbled in the barrel. The incorporation of 3M® Scotchlite® Reflective Material in While more expensive than the typical top-coated process, drum the various piping and graphics reflects light back to its original HOG Members earn free nights faster as dyeing produces the deepest, longest-lasting color and preserves source enhancing visibility of the rider to other motorists. ® and softens the hide, making it flexible and comfortable. It also Dozens of men’s and women’s MotorClothes leather jackets Ride Rewards members. Join now and start to means that the leather will retain its color and not rub off onto offer additional features and functionality, including perforated other garments. leather, fully waterproof leather, vintage leather, and other earn 15% bonus points on every stay! Premium materials are matched by a construction process that technologies. Each is backed by a Limited Warranty to be free ensures the greatest durability and comfort. from factory defects in materials and workmanship for five years. In areas of the jacket that withstand the greatest stress, The result is jackets that deliver years of uncompromised Visit BWrider.com® for more membership beneﬁts. a specialized sewing stitch known as “bar tacking” creates a comfort and performance. See them now at your local Harley- Davidson dealer.

Each Best Western® branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International, Inc. ©2012 Best Western 62 HOG International, Inc. All rights reserved. Standard,” “Boy Scout,” “Girls Juvenile,” “The Racer,” and “7-17 Special.” The Boy Scout was ultimately renamed, perhaps due to objections from the Boy Scouts of America. The “Motorcyke” was the most reminiscent of a motorcycle, with a metal tank situated along the two top tubes in the frame. But this tank

Archives held a different power source: batteries for the headlamp. The bikes brought unique marketing opportunities. Even more than any motorcycle that rolled out of Milwaukee, young people could own a Harley-Davidson more easily than ever, with the right amount of hard work and saving. (And for the Motor Company, the bicycles also allowed for a tidy revenue stream over the winter months, specifically leading up to Christmas). Adults with city commutes were encouraged to save money from the “high cost of street car riding.” And the health benefits were obvious: “Muscles will harden, color will come back to the cheeks, insomnia will be a thing of the past. Legs, back, arms and brain are better for it.” But the health benefits did not stop there. Ads from 1920 also referred to the streetcar as “germ laden.” With the catastrophic influenza pandemic of 1918 still fresh in America’s memory, the bicycle kept the rider healthy in more ways than one. Harley-Davidson’s line of accessories was expanded to include

Harley-Davidson bicycles were offered mostly through the motorcycle dealer items for bicycle owners, including gas and electric headlamps, network from 1917 to 1921. One of the intended markets for bicycles was those too horns, and compact frame-mounted hand pumps for the inner young for a motorcycle. Shown here is a model 718, also known as “The Special.” tubes. Any other needed item, including tools, was available. Above: Four-page color advertisements recruiting new dealers went in motorcycle and bicycle magazines heralding the 1920 bicycle offering. The ad claimed that many existing H-D dealers were covering their overhead with bicycle sales alone. Putting the Work Back In: Left: Magazine advertisement for one of the “Motorcyke” models, 1921. ® Harley-Davidson Bicycles Short-term Success Sales were a blip on the H-D radar by 1920, the peak year, at only It is sometimes reported that the original A bicycle sales boom in the 1910s brought with it new about four percent of overall domestic sales. It is also believed Mr. Harley and three Mr. Davidsons said they potential for leisure-time riding. With its lower price and ease that sales never matched those of competitors due to limitations started Harley-Davidson to “take the work out of bicycling.” of use, it could also serve as a means for introducing younger of the motorcycle dealer network. However, the bikes were a Though true, this statement is sometimes misconstrued to people to the Harley-Davidson motorcycle. These conditions quality ride. Evidence lies in favorable product reviews and the suggest that Harley-Davidson started as a bicycle company. led to the signing of a deal with Davis Sewing Machine Co. premium price points, which ranged from the low $40s to the This is simply not the case. of Dayton, Ohio in the autumn of 1916. With the rise of the mid $50s. Ultimately, the bicycle family was a casualty of the What is undeniably true, however, is that bicycles had a motorcycle in the 1900s and 1910s, Davis already had its recession of 1920-1921, which led to reductions in expenses. major influence on the Motor Company during those early own motorcycle brand, the Dayton, which capitalized on the As an epilogue to the short-lived bicycle line, Harley-Davidson years. The very first vehicles, after all, were essentially motor- established Dayton bicycles, going back to 1892. (The Dayton learned in 1922 that Davis Sewing Machine Co. continued to driven bicycles. Despite their best efforts to promote a better bicycle evolved into the Huffman and later Huffy brand). produce and sell bicycles with the Harley-Davidson badge on way to travel on two wheels, standard bicycles continued to According to the agreement, Davis sold the main component them – nearly one full year after the Motor Company had called grow in popularity in the 1910s. With an eye on introducing parts of the bicycles and shipped them to Milwaukee for an end to bicycle sales. After a cease-and-desist letter failed to new markets to motorcycling, Harley-Davidson decided to sell assembly. Harley-Davidson dedicated an entire building for cease or desist anything, the illegal activity was finally stopped its own brand of bicycle, through an unlikely partnership with production across the railroad tracks from the Milwaukee by a personal visit from Arthur Davidson in the spring of 1923. a sewing machine company. factory on Juneau Avenue. Beginning in 1917, bicycles were sold Put that in your sewing machine and stitch it. mainly through Harley-Davidson’s motorcycle dealerships, The Rise of Leisure though bicycle dealers filled that role in smaller towns that had Harley-Davidson bicycles are on view at the Harley- At the turn of the century, increasing numbers of people turned limited access to H-D® dealers. Davidson Museum® in Milwaukee. Attendees of the Back Roads to bicycles as a primary means of getting around. But over the Characteristic to H-D bicycles was the familiar olive green Tour and VIP Tour for H.O.G.® members can view the additional next two decades, motorcycles and cars increased in popularity. paint adorning the motorcycles since World War I. The bikes bicycle collection not seen in the Museum’s main exhibits. Since both of them provided longer range, better speed, and also had another hallmark, the letters H and D cast into the more practicality, the bicycle – which earlier had been a popular main sprocket in the same way Dayton bicycles read DAYTON. Photographs courtesy of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company means of short-distance transportation – took on a new role. Bicycle names included the “Diamond Frame,” “Ladies Archives. Copyright H-D.®

64 HOG HOG 65 Exhaust

into my riding course the prior summer and again when I finally took my bike out for the first time. Nervous and vibrant and open. Could I learn to handle something like this? What the hell did I think I was doing? Oh yes, I remember. I was making myself ever more alive. The tour was quite enjoyable and worth the effort. I stretched my torso around low barriers and leaned in to see every station, to take in all that activity and muscle and skill pouring out around me. But the enormity of it all didn’t hit me until the ride home. I had wanted to see something real, something authentic. And I did. I saw craftsmen. I saw technicians. I saw auditors. I saw a sea of people focused on building beautiful, beautiful machines. Machines that marry the practical with that very human desire to feel alive. Yet the bigger reveal for me was about the meaning of work. More precisely, the meaning of work and this damned national debate we’re in about jobs. What I had observed that morning at the plant was so quintessentially American and yet so completely IT’S NOT JUST A universal. I know it was universal because the spirit I saw in York was the same spirit at my side as I left the life I once knew. No idea or abstraction can ever replace the meaning one finds in creating something useful and valued. All this glorious energy ’ The Ride and desire we hold within wants to flow into a useful outlet. We JOB IT S KEEPING all want to spend our hours creating something good. To end our BY KRISTINA BOISSONAULT DIPALO day feeling satisfied and proud. Unfortunately, I don’t really hear In November 2011, I ventured out to York, Pennsylvania to mention of that spirit in the public debate on jobs. All I seem to take a factory tour at the Harley-Davidson plant. I had a lot hear is a suite of tactics and old gimmicks focused on how high A LEGEND ALIVE of time on my hands, having left Corporate America, and I or low taxes should be, or how much money Washington should wanted to do something that felt visceral, real, authentic. You or shouldn’t spend. see, I have spent my career trading in the world of ideas and Quite frankly, that’s not the lead I want to hear. I want to hear abstractions, fashioning meaning out of things you can’t touch strategies grounded in the understanding that there’s so much but that are strong enough to hit your stomach so hard it good left to harness. I want someone to talk about the real literally aches. Things like organizational culture, engagement, growth yet to come for this country. I’m waiting for someone to and redundancies. I found myself wanting to taste the air of a speak of the shared spirit we all wish to find in our work. Just workplace where abstraction lives for a moment or two before like the skilled, passionate people I saw constructing those artful Work on something you believe in. it turns into useful metal. A place where my former high-heeled machines, I want the focus to be on what we can build that is Train to become a Harley-Davidson technician at MMI. corporate style would have landed me in figurative danger. useful and valued. Sure, the tactics we employ matter, but they’re So I took the long, rain-soaked ride through small-town ever secondary to creation and meaning. Get hands-on training and learn about everything from basic engine theory Pennsylvania, buffered by harvested fields, endless big box For me, watching the people at York brought all this into to Screamin’ Eagle® performance. Surround yourself with people like you stores, and countless creeks overburdened with water. After a stark relief. who know that it’s more than just a motorcycle. And do it all at the only few hours, the massive York plant came upon me. Sprung upon So the next time I ride my Harley® motorcycle, I will silently technical school in the country that provides a 100% Harley-Davidson me, to be more accurate. I reverently drove into the parking lot, bow to the skill and craft infused into my machine. And I will approved program and nationwide graduate placement*. taking in the big, iconic H-D sign out front and directing my eyes silently pray that more people enjoy the satisfaction that flows 2844 W. Deer Valley Rd. • Phoenix, Arizona 85027 toward acres of shop floor encased by white walls. from work steeped in both creation and meaning. 9751 Delegates Dr. • Orlando, Florida 32837 I felt a little nervous waiting for the tour to begin. Funny, I know, but I was quite conscious of how unfamiliar a shop floor Kristina Boissonault DiPalo is a H.O.G.® member living in For more information, call 800-334-6156 or visit MMITech.edu/Harley-Davidson is to someone like me. It was the same feeling I had walking Basking Ridge, New Jersey. For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at www.uti.edu/disclosure. Programs vary by location. Financial aid and VA beneﬁ ts available to those who qualify. VA beneﬁ ts not available at all campuses. *MMI cannot guarantee employment. Motorcycle Mechanics Institute is a division of Universal Technical Institute. MMI’s Orlando campus is a branch of 66 HOG MSC: 800/819 Universal Technical Institute of Phoenix, Inc. ©2008 H-D. Harley, H-D, Harley-Davidson and the Bar & Shield logo are among the trademarks of H-D Michigan, LLC.

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This issue of HOG® magazine is on us. But when you join or renew today, H.O.G.® can add even more to your ownership experience: • Access to exciting H.O.G. events, activities, and programs • Special rates on select AT&T wireless service • Special rates and free upgrades at Best Western hotels (you can even use your Best Western Ride RewardsSM points to renew your H.O.G. membership) • Standard Roadside Assistance package (additional coverage available) • Harley-Davidson® Insurance special rates • And much more Join or renew today. Visit hog.com or call 1-800-CLUBHOG (1-800-258-2464).