MMid-Atlanticid-Atlantic TThunderhunder RRoadsoads OWNER / EDITOR 1920 Centerville Turnpike, Suite 117-270 SALES: Virginia Beach, VA 23464 Offi ce phone: (757) 831-2264 Email:[email protected] Kelly Werrell Website: www.thunderroads-virginia.com Thunder Roads Crew Sales / Correspondents Correspondents

Bo Albert Cindy Mease Mike “ Hammer” Vecchione Beth Albert [email protected] [email protected] Phone: (757) 291-2030 Phone: cell (804) 536-1299 offi ce (804) 265-5166

Tim Wilmoth Ricky Derby

Dan “Stikman” Stidham Ed & Faye Hudnall [email protected] [email protected] (866) 968-1900 (757) 871-8840 - Ed (757) 871-8839 - Faye

Matt Allan Dave Sutton

Garth Hines Lorree & Randy Kidder [email protected] [email protected] (540) 234-9120 or (540) 746-0747 (304) 268-3719

Layout & Design Cathy “Bzgal” Clare Chris “Tigger” Rockhill WEBMASTER [email protected]. On Eagle’s Wings Writers

Warren Ells, Art Director MySpaceMaster: Rod the Magnifi cent Thunder Publishing Stacie Bennett Ad Design [email protected] Reverend Rock Rick “Preacher” Saunders WRITERS, PHOTOGRAPHERS & CONTRIBUTORS Kelly Werrell, Beth Albert, Dan “Stikman” Stidham, Ed & Faye Hudnall, Cindy Mease, Garth Hines, Matt Allan, Mike “Hammer” Vecchione (local & overseas), Randy Kidder, Reverend Rock, Rick “Preacher” Saunders, Ricky Derby, Tim Wilmoth, Dave Sutton, Stacie Bennett, Cathy “Bzgal” Clare, Chris “Tigger” Rockhill, Jeffrey Ponko, Curtis Matthews, “Little Debbie” Burnett, Melissa Ashcraft. Special Thanks to: Warren Ells - our wonderfully talented layout guy who designs our pages & puts all the pieces together for us each month, Rod The Magnifi cent - for his killer ad designs & Troy Uhl, our webmaster, who keeps our site rockin on the web. Also many thanks to all of our readers, advertisers & those of you out there that spread the word or pass a magazine to a friend who’s never heard of us before - You ALL are what keeps the Thunder rolling through the Mid-Atlantic!

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 2 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Hey - how’s everyone doing out there? I’m sure you’re all happy CALENDAR OF EVENTS...... 4 that Spring has arrived & so has the start of the 2007 riding season. We’ve had the weirdest weather ever during any Winter season - at times, the temps would be in the low 30s then soar into the 60s & PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN...... 6 70s a couple of days later….crazy stuff! Hopefully it’s leveled off now & we can count on steady temps to ride in. We’ll start getting that extra hour of daylight to ride beginning 3/11 which is always a HOT SHOTS...... 16 very welcome bonus for us, so don’t forget to set your clocks ahead one hour Saturday night, 3/10, before you hit the sack. There’s so many rides & events starting to breakout in our calendar & still lots more to come as the fi nal details are being NATIONAL BIKER NEWS...... 26 worked out in the clubs & organizations that are hosting these runs for local & national charities. Try to get out there to at least 1 a month if you can…it can truly make a difference in the lives of SOUNDCHECK ...... 28 those less fortunate than us. There’s nothing better than fi ring up the bike on a Sat. or Sun morning, gathering with friends to go for a nice ride & enjoying the after ride fun to help out those in need. Cost: Tank of gas - $5-$10; Registration Fee - $10 - $15; THUNDER ON THE ROAD...... 30 Enjoying an afternoon on the bikes with friends to raise $$$ for charity – PRICELESS! Please visit Absolut Cycle Worx in Richmond on 3/17 for their TITTS (TAKIN’ IT TO THE STREETS)...... 34 party to kick off the riding season with great live music, lots of food, drink & just a real good time. Ladies, get those bikes ready for next month’s Diva Customs’ 2nd Annual “Divas Only” bike show on April THE JOKER’S WILD...... 38 14th. Last year’s show was so incredible & everyone that attended had the best time. Even though it was “ladies only” who could enter their bikes, there were plenty of guys that came to check out all the cool rides owned by these women of the road. We’ll see you BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY...... 42 there. We’re extremely honored that The Virginia Motorsports Park has asked us to host a new feature for this year’s Virginia Bike ON EAGLES WINGS...... 50 Fest being held April 15th. We invite you all to come on out with your bikes, take off your helmets if you wish & take a cruise on the Thunder Roads Cruise Lane from 11am – 4pm. You can take a leisure ride or ham it up & show off a little...it’s up to you – it’s all for CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS...... 53 fun & play. There will be a lot of excitement & plenty of things going on throughout the park that day with lots of races, a huge bike show, bike rodeo, burnout drags, vendors, swap meet, live music READERS RIDES...... 54 & other stage events. Our On Eagles Wings crew will be holding a Blessing Of The Bikes before the Cruise Lane starts to roll. Please join us for a great day at the park! Hope you all enjoy our new look on all gloss – we’re still the same ole biker magazine at heart but just coming to you a little more clearer now. We’d like to welcome aboard & say thanks to all of our new advertisers as well as our old friends returning from NATIONAL FOUNDERS last year’s riding season & to our regular faithful advertisers that Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon roll with us each issue – it’s your fi nancial support which allows us 1421 Chapmansboro Road to keep this magazine alive each month. A very special thanks to Chapmansboro, TN 37035 all of you… our readers – YOU are truly what keeps the Thunder Offi ce: 615-792-0040 Fax: 615-792-7580 rolling for us all! We wish you all peace in your lives & love in your e-mail: [email protected] hearts. Please look out for each other © THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY & ride safe out THUNDER PUBLISHING. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS there…See you out CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. on the road! PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OC- CUPIED BY THE ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REA- SONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LIABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED Kelly USE OF A PERSON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND CLAIMS MADE BY ADVERTISERS AND AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN, AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE POLICY OF THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES NOT PROMOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS. MARCH 2007 information about participating in or donating to the Ride 5th Annual Heritage Motorcycle Rally - Charleston, SC or Dive contact Lynnhaven Dive Center (757) 481-0335. This the Grandfather of Bike Week Charleston. Rally nd th Mar 2 – 11 Mar 23rd - 25th Central, located at 9850 Hwy 78, Ladson, SC 29456, Daytona Bike Week – Daytona Beach, FL is home to “the wildest bike show in the south” and the Visit www.BikerBeach.com for more info Va Beach Convention Center Dept. of Va Legion Million Dollar Bike Build-Off. Top name bands, Vendors, Conference and ALR Dept.Meeting For more info scheduled rides daily – Beaufort to the south, Myrtle Mar 9th contact [email protected] Beach to the North, the Islands and Historic Charleston. Charity Runs. 10 full days of laid back enjoyment! Gates Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum’s 19th Annual Mar 24th & 25th open at 10am on Friday. Info call 843-767-4258 or visit Friendraising Breakfast - Daytona, FL Guest Speaker The 1st Annual Northeast Motorcycle Expo - Long www.heritagemotorcyclerally.comApril 13 - 22, 2007 Willie G. Davidson. Hilton Resort 100 N. Atlantic Ave. Island NY Suffolk Community College Exhibition Center, Daytona.FL. Contact [email protected] Brentwood, Long Island, NY, featuring bike builders, Apr 14th celebrities and more Saturday 10AM to 5 PM and Lee Garrett Memorial Run - Lynchburg, VA C.W. at th th th Sunday 10AM to 5 PM. All brand motorcycle show: [email protected] Mar 10 - 11 & 17 & 18 Best of Northeast Custom Bike Show, Iron Angels, Highland County Maple Festival. Mountain Valley Riders music by Cross Cut Saw, and entertainment for the leaving Mt. Crawford Exxon 9:00 either Saturday. Contact kids. Hundreds of vendors, displaying biker accessories Apr 14th [email protected] and fashions, motorcycle dealers, displaying their latest 2nd Annual Divas Only Bike Show - Chesapeake, models. Admission tickets are $15.00 per person, children VA This indoor event being held at the Chesapeake under 12 years of age $7.00 and children 5 and under Convention Center will include great food, prizes, give- Mar 11th free. For more information contact 1-877-BikeXpo (877- a-ways, special guests, and live entertainment from 1st Annual Ride for Fallen Offi cers - Portsmouth, VA 245-3976) or www.NEMotorcycleExpo.com A Kev-Marv the band “Krunch.” Back again this year is the famous Presented by Knuckleheads Roadhouse & Police Unity Production. Diva Customs fashion show featuring beautiful women Tour Chapt IV. Registration & start Bayside Harley wearing the hottest leather fashions in town So ladies Davidson, 2211 Fredrick Blvd, Portsmouth, VA (757) Mar 31st get your bikes ready..this show is for you! Guys, you are 397-5550. Sign up 9am - 11:45 am. Police escorted ride welcome to come in, but its “Girls against the Girls!” And leaves at noon. $10 donation per rider/$5 per passenger. Annual Chili Cookoff - Staunton, VA this is a showdown you don’t want to miss. The grand End site & Post Ride Fundraiser at Knuckleheads Sponsored by the Shenandoah Valley HOG Chapter prize of $1000.00 will be given to the “Best In Show” Roadhouse, 401 Witchduck Rd., Va Beach, VA 757- is March 31, 2007. Sample chili from 11am-1pm (or winner! All bikes in the show must be owned by women. 644-6200. Featuring Bike Show, 9 different categories, until everything is gone!!) $3.00 buys you a bowl, (Proof of ownership is required) Ladies, register early at plus best in show. 50/50 drawing, Live auction with over spoon and a vote for your favorite valley chili! Visit www.DivaCustoms.com. For more information about the $5000 worth of donated items. All proceeds go to the www.shenandoahhd.com for a listing of all of our show or sponsorship call Diva Customs at 757-428-DIVA Police Unity Chapt IV. Info for sponsorship, donations & events! or contact us on our website at www.DivaCustoms.com. more call Mary Bradford (757) 567-4882 or J.R. at (757) 675-8488. Mar 31st Apr 14th – 15th Blessing of the Bikes – Woodbridge, VA The IRS (irresistible retail sale) has arrived. Take Mar 11th Tentative 10AM, veteran’s Park, Woodbridge. Don’t a break form doing taxes and enjoy 30 – 50 % off Daylight Savings Time Begins – Spring Forward…set be foolish, get extra protection for a blessed riding all winter items. Includes a parking lot party on your clocks ahead one hour! WooHoo! An extra hour season. Renegade Classics, 14575 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Saturday. Renegade Classics, 14575 Jefferson Davis of daylight to ride! Woodbridge, VA Hwy, Woodbridge, VA Mar 17th Mar 31st Apr 14th Happy St. Patty’s Day! Don’t forget to wear River City ABATE Biker’s First Aid Seminar - Glen Spring Break Children’s Miracle Network Car, Truck, something green when you roll out! Allen, VA Motorcycle Show- Fredericksburg, Va. Non-Alcoholic 9:00am to 1:00pm (lunch & refreshments provided) event, 140 Trophie’s call 540-374-2240 for info. Mar 17th Place: Richmond Harley Davidson, 10441 Washington Absolut Cycle Worx St. Patrick’s Day Kick Off of the Highway (Route 1), Glen Allen, VA Riding Season Party - Richmond, VA Cost $ 30.00 (includes First Aid Kit) Apr 14th - 21st Come kick off the 2007 Riding Season with us as we Class Size is limited to 50 participants Heritage Million Dollar Bike Build-Off – Ladson, SC throw down at the shop with Black Cash playing & other For more Information & Pre-Registration - Contact The “SUPERBOWL” of the Bike Building World! 15 bands (tba). Party from 2pm- 8pm? Cover charge is $10 Steve Skeens @ (804) 389-8293 or Scott Blankenship Builders * 1 Winner * 1 Million Dollars. The Playoffs begin per person, includes all your food, beer & beverages. @ (804) 744-8383 River City ABATE considers the fact April 14th, 2007, held during the 5th Annual Heritage Absolut Cycle Worx is located at 5016 Old Midlothian that the most likely person(s) to be present at the scene Motorcycle Rally in Charleston South Carolina. The teams Tpke, Richmond. (804) 497-7000. of a motorcycle crash is also another Biker/Rider. How are: Kendall Johnson * Paul Cox & Keino* Joe Martin do such person’s reduce the severity of the injury(s) * Aaron Greene * Roger Goldammer * Roger Bourget * Mar 17th & 18th and/or help to prevent fatality(s) while providing less John Dodson * Darrian Tefft & Mario Audia * Jerry Burrow exposure to the legal and fi nancial risks prior to arrival * Russell Marlowe * Vinnie Minichiello * Eddie Trotta Highland County Maple Festival. Mountain Valley of the Emergency Medical Services/First Responders * Roland Sands * Bruce Mullins * Arlen Ness. The 15 Riders leaving Mt. Crawford Exxon 9:00. Contact (Paramedics, EMT’s & etc.) distinguished custom motorcycle builders are right now [email protected] in their shops, putting their all into what they hope will be rd th APRIL 2007 named the “2007 Heritage Million Dollar Bike Build-Off Mar 23 - 25 Winner”. These builders will transport their entries to: Ride for a Cure/Dive for a Cure - Virginia Beach, VA Apr 4th – 7th The Exchange Park outside of the Charleston, SC to This event kicks off on Friday, March 23rd with a 24 hour 1st Annual Big Daddy Leather Spring Break Cruisin in arrive no later than 7 PM April 13th 2007 for the Unveiling. dive-a-thon during which individuals or teams attempt to the Carribean – Charleston, SC And then place those entries on display for 8 full days remain underwater for 24 hours straight and raise monies Departs Charleston, SC stops include Grand Cayman, for judges & spectator looks. And then they, (the builder thru sponsor donations per hour spent underwater. There Cozumel & Key West Florida. Details, pricing themselves), must ride these bikes 100 grueling miles as will be around the clock events for the duration of the dive and reservation info contact Big Daddy Leather, a group. (Lose the group & they could lose the prize). including a breakfast and cookout on March 24th. The 1900 Princess Anne St., Fredericksburg, VA ph. Check it out at: www.heritagemilliondollarbikebuildoff.com dive takes place in the pool at Lynnhaven Dive Center, 540-899-0048 www.bigdaddyleather.com, email [email protected] 1413 N. Great Neck Road, Virginia Beach, VA, (757) Apr 15thOpen House & Poker Run to benefi t the 481-0335. Apr 6th - 9th Victory Junction Gang Camp - Colonial Heights, VA The Ride for a Cure Poker Run takes place on Sunday, st BMW Riders Group Spring Blue Ridge Ride - Verona, Being held at Catlins Kustom Cycles - 1 bike out @ March 25th, and the ride will commence at Lynnhaven 9am, last bike out @11am Dive Center (address listed above). Registration will be VA Leave Saturday 9:00 Kathy’s Restaurant Verona Va., head south on Blue Ridge Entertainment provided by Copper Ridge Bluegrass Band, between 9am-11am. There will be a cookout, Door Prizes, Book Signings/Sales of well-known Author of Motorcycle 50/50, music, refreshments and lots of other exciting Parkway, camp at Meadows of Dam, continue South on Sunday. Contact [email protected] Traveling-Dale Coyner, Food, door prizes, 50/50 raffl e, stuff. The monies collected by both the ride and the dive entertainment for children. Check out all of our other will be donated to several cancer foundations including April 8th events at www.ckccustoms.com the American Cancer Society, Cancer Care Foundation Happy Easter! Hop on the bikes & let’s roll! of Tidewater, The Foundation for Applied Research in Apr 15th Gastrointestinal Oncology (FARGO). Last year over Apr 13th – 22nd Third Annual Purple Heart Ride - Sykesville, MD $60,000.00 was raised and donated! For additional Blue Knights MD IX is having its Third Annual Purple

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 4 Heart Ride to benefi t those injured servicemen and Shelley at (757) 421-9687 or (757) 373-4811. Rain or on 33E. Harrisonburg, Va.. Pancake breakfast 8-9. women who have returned from Iraq and Afghanastan. Shine. Door Prizes, 50/50, BBQ & refreshments included at These wounded soldiers are being treated at the end of 100 mile ride. Ride patch for fi rst 100 registered. Bethesda Naval Hospital and Walter Reed Army Medical Apr 29th All riders and bikes welcomed. Prize for Club with most Center. The proceeds from this police escorted ride will Southern Cruisers Crusin’ For A Cure - Virginia Beach, attendees. Come attend the largest ride in Rockingham be presented to the Armed Forces Foundation to benefi t VA Hosted by the Southern Cruiser Riding Club, Hampton County. Parade start Police Escort, Poker run Ride. these wounded soldiers. The ride travels from Freedom Roads Chapt #26. To benefi t research for St. Jude Contact: [email protected] or Smokey 540-896-8929. Park in Sykesville Maryland and travels to Bethesda Children’s Hospital. Registration from 9am - 11am. First www.mvrva.tripod.com Club Rides 3rd Sunday each Naval Hospital in Bethesda Maryland. Registration begins bike out 10:30 am. Last bike out 11:15am. Registration Month. at 7 am through 10 am when the ride leaves the park. will be at Fastlane Biker Gear and Accessories, 166 The ride is rain or shine. Date: Sunday, April 15, 2007, Rosemont Rd., Va Beach, VA 23452. $10 for Rider, May 26th Contact Phone: 410-804-5721 (Steve Martin), Email: $5 passenger. Prizes for Best & Worst poker hand, nd [email protected], Link: http://www.bkmdix.org Largest Group, Oldest/Youngest Rider, Furthest Distance Rough Riders MC’s 2 Annual Memorial Day Traveled, Door Prizes, 50/50 Raffl e Weekend Bike Show - Stafford, VA Apr 20th - 22nd Proceeds benefi t the Wounded Warrior Project www.wou 10th Annual Virginia Beach Bike Classic - Virginia MAY 2007 ndedwarriorsproject.org. Noon - 3pm Show registration Beach, VA Sponsored by Geico Motorcycle. Camp begins @ 11am. People’s Choice Trophies awarded. $5 Pendelton, Virginia Beach - Over 100 Local & National May 5th entry fee for show. $35 per Chance to win a NEW 2006 Vendors. World famous bike builders attending this year: Harley Davidson Softail provided by Southside Harley- Dave Perewitz, Russel Mitchell of Exile Cycles, Randy MS. UNDERSTOOD RIDERS 4TH ANNUAL CAR, Davidson, Virginia Beach, VA 757-499-8964 - Only 714 Simpson of Milwaukee Iron, Johnny Lange of Strip Club BIKE & TRUCK SHOW - Stafford, VA 11am-8pm @ Tickets sold. Show and drawing @ Main Street Grill Choppers, Swede Built Motorcycles, Big Rick Hoffman Butch & Chiquitas, 54 Montague Loop Stafford, Va. and Bar, 315 Garrisonville Rd., Stafford, VA (winner is of Logic Motorcycles & The Wrench! Bike Show, Field 22554. Adults $20, kids 12 & under FREE. Vendors, obligated for Tax, Lic, set-up and Freight fees associated). Events, Burnout Contest, Bikini Contest, Parade of Food, Drinks, Raffl es, Face Painting, Dunking Booth, Wet You do not need to be present to WIN. Contact Sailor Bikes, Fun Kids Stuff, Great Food, Cold Beverages & T-Shirt & Hard Body Contest. Music by DJ Deluxe and 377-9973, Snake (540) 288-7772 or (540) 288-9277 or Much More! Events scheduled: Kansas, The Wreckers, Sha Sha tha Mouth Piece. Trophies to be awarded. For Diego (760) 415-7433. info contact the Ms Understood Riders Public Relations Phil Vassar. Vendor & Sponsor info (757) 675-8488 or th (757) 560-0877, fax (757) 426-1880. For more including Offi cers Karamel-Delyte (540) 272-9042, Honey (540) May 27 lodging info visit www.vabeachbikeclassic.com. 379-6928, Pink (703)919-7468 Rolling Thunder XX – Washington, DC www.rollingthunder1.com Proceeds benefi t USO of Hampton Roads. May 5th The ROC Bike Fest - Richmond, VA. Stunt team, Door th Apr 21st May 27 Prizes, Music, Bike show & Trophys www.TheROC.com, 2nd Annual Freedom Run - Martinsburg, WV. The Patriots’ Tour - Richmond, VA This ride begins 804-675-4101 at the Va War Memorial in Richmond. This fund-raiser For more info go to www.epcabate.org or call (304)262-1844 ride is to benefi t the War Memorial and it’s education May 6th for kid’s program. The ride will take about 1 hour and th end up in Colonial Heights Va at the American Legion TRIAD PLEASURE RIDERS M/C 11TH ANNUAL, CASH May 28 Post where a 2007 Harley Davidson Electra-Glide will GIVEAWAY & BIKE SHOW- Kernersville, NC From Memorial Day - Take some time today & maybe even be given away. First bike out 9:00am last bike out 11: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. VENDORS - MUSIC - FOOD a slow ride in honor & remembrance of the men & 00am. Pre-registration cost $25.00 gets you a T-Shirt and - DOOR PRIZES. DRAWING for CASH GIVEAWAY women who have died serving our country. ST ND RD lunch. Extra rider cost $10.00 includes lunch only. 1000 1 PRIZE- $500.00 2 PRIZE- $200.00 3 PRIZE- st rd tickets raffl ed off at $50.00 each. Registration is through $100.00. TICKETS $5.00 ea.. BIKE SHOW $10.00 May 31 – Jun 3 the VAWM. Raffl e Tickets and registration forms can be ENTRY. 8 CLASSES 1ST & 2ND PLACE TROPHIES. Dam Bike Rally - Fontana Dam NC picked up at the War Memorial {804} 786-2060 or from KERNERSVILLE MOOSE LODGE, 1250 EAST Fontana Village Resort will host the Dam Bike Rally, May American Legion Riders of Southern Va. For more info MOUNTAIN STREET KERNERSVILLE, NC. South of 31-June 3, 2007. We are only 10 miles from the famous visit: http://vawarmemorial.org/motorcycle.html or Parks Chevrolet in Kernersville, NC on Hwy 421 between “Dragon” and 25 miles from the Cherohala Skyway, and contact [email protected] County Line Tavern and Colfax Furniture. Contact; Steve of course, our own Hellbender 28. Live Music; cookouts; Robertson 336-769-3909 vendors; contests; poker runs. Please visit our websites at Apr 25th – 29th www.fontanavillage.com or www.smokymountainbikewee th k.com or www.hellbender28.com Make your reservations 5 Annual Outer Banks Bike Week – Outer Banks, NC th The 5th Annual Outer Banks Bike Week is packed full with May 6 early by calling 800-849-2258. We look forward to seeing entertainment, great food, events and special attractions. Relay for Life Poker Run- Midlothian, VA Team event you! Sponsored by Fontana Village Resort. Contact: Poker Run. Bike Show. Live Music. Scenic Rides. to fi ght cancer Sunday May 6, 2007 (rain or shine). 9:00 Marketing & Groups Sales Department, Email: Offi cial Night-time party sites. www.outerbanksbikewee - 10:00AM registration at Cycle Connection of Virginia, aburchfi [email protected], k.com 17401 Midlothian Pike (4 min. west of Midlothian on RT Phone: (828) 498-2211, Fax: 828-498-2209 60) For more info. contact Marie Crow 804-674-1265. Website: www.fontanavillage.com th th Apr 26 – 28 th th North Carolina State H.O.G. Rally 2007 – Outer Banks, May 11 – 20 JUNE 2007 Myrtle Beach Bike Week – Myrtle Beach, SC NC “Cruzin the Outer Banks” 100 miles of beach cruzin st rd at it’s best! This H.O.G. event offers riding, sight-seeing, www.myrtlebeachbikeweek.com Jun 1 - 3 Thunder On The Rock Motorcycle Rally - Monteagle activities – something for everyone. Register by March th 8th , 2007 for your chance to win a brand new 2007 May 12 Mountain, TNThe newest, biggest, baddest Motorcycle Sportster. “Get your Crabs” Poker Run - $1,000 1st prize. Rotary Rumble for Kids! - Portsmouth, VA Rally. Everyone 18+ is welcome. Be apart of history Bike Show, Field Games, Live Beach Music. Guided Come help us support several local Children’s charities, by being apart of the fi rst ever THOR Rally! Jam with ride to Ocracoke Island and Lighthouse Tour. Police leaving from Route 17 Motorcycle Accessory Shop at Kentucky Headhunters & .38 Special plus a ton of other escorted bike parade to the Wright Bros. Memorial. New 3405 High Street in Portsmouth , Virginia ! Registration is live entertainment. We will have lots of events, contests Kitty Hawk H-D dealership, located only ½ mile away at 8;30, FBO 9:00, LBO 10:00. The Dice run will include and games including the fun frozen T-shirt contest! There from the rally site. Call the hotline or visit the website for coffee & donuts, ride pin, T-shirt and lunch for the fi rst will be bike shows, vendors, the Thundereets, beer, more information. NC Rally Hotline: 1-252-221-4657 rider at $20, and passengers receive a play sheet, T- showers on site and free camping. In addition to our www.ncstatehogrally.com shirt and lunch for $10. It will be a great ride, and will headline acts we will have other bands and entertainment include music, door prizes, and raffl es! Online registration lined up as our 1st annual event draws closer. One of Apr 26th - 29th is available at www.greatbridgerotary.org, or email the best parts is getting here, the scenic roads and the Outer Banks Bike Week with a Legion Riders Social [email protected] for more information. C U attractions surrounding us. Less than 45 minutes away, For more info contact [email protected] there! you will fi nd 3 different lakes, Jack Daniels, Rock City, The Natural Bridge, just to name a few. Mark your calendar th Apr 28th May 13 and come on out and play with us!!!!! Tickets are only Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 3204 Poker Run To Happy Mother’s Day to all you Mama’s out there!!! It’s $30 in advance, $40 at the gate. For more info & the Benefi t Alzheimer’s Research - Virginia Beach, VA YOUR day ladies so let’s ride!!! latest updates on the rally visit www.thunderontherocko 10 am at the Fraternal Order of Eagles, 1061 Newtown nline.com May 20th Road, Va Beach 23462, Before April 16th: $15 plus $5 nd rd th Jun 2 & 3 for rider. After April 16 : $20 plus $10 per rider. Pig 11th Annual Charity Ride to Benefi t the Children Roast with all the fi xins afterwards. Breakfast buffet will for the Mid-Atlantic Burn Camp - Harrisonburg, VA Suffolk Executive Airport’s (fl y-In)1st Annual Wings be available from 8am - 9:45 am for $5. For more info Sponsored by Mountain Valley Riders Motorcycle Club. and Wheels Weekend - Suffolk, VA To be held the please contact the Aerie at (757) 497-1876 or Bill or Registration $25, 8 to 10am at APPLEBEE’S Restaurant cont. page 12

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 5 America Supports You: Bikers Demonstrate Nation’s Patriotism, Compassion By Linda Kozaryn important or meaningful as reaching out -- as strangers -- American Forces Press Service to a person whose heart is aching from the loss of a loved one and telling them we care, we won’t forget.” In 2005, WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2006 – When Noel Totten ar- 90 riders visited 14 families throughout Minnesota, and rived home to fi nd 40 leather-clad motorcyclists pulled up Lynne performed at a benefi t concert. The event raised at his house in Bloomington, Minn., he knew why they’d $5,000 for Wounded Warriors, a Nebraska-based non- come. profi t corporation founded in 2003 to support the soldiers, airmen, sailors and Marines wounded in Afghanistan and Iraq. Lynne said meeting families who have lost a son or daughter, husband or wife, mother or father “will change you for the rest of your life.” “The sense of loss on those people’s faces is so powerful, it makes you want to do something,” he said. “You’ll never take our freedom for granted again. “I don’t think the gravity of it hits you until you actually pull into someone’s driveway,” Lynne said. “We can never ever know what they feel. We can only let them know their loss didn’t go unnoticed.” This year the riders visited 11 fallen servicemembers’ families over the course of three days. The ride started at the state Capitol Sept. 8, and ended with a concert at the Medina Ballroom in Hamel, Minn., Sept. 10. By the third day of the ride, the number of motorcycles participating had increased to 130. “All of the neighbors were so impressed,” Totten Universal Recording artist Rockie Lynne, co-founder of said by phone following the riders’ visit to his home. “At Tribute to the Troops, presents a plaque to Noel Totten fi rst they were concerned, seeing all these motorcycles Sept. 8 at Totten’s home in Bloomington, Minn. About 40 coming down the street. But when they all came out of members of the group visited Totten’s home to pay their their houses and saw how peaceful everything was, they respects for the loss of his brother, Chief Warrant Offi cer joined in, applauding when Rockie, Gregg and I each Eric W. Totten, 34, an Army Chinook helicopter pilot who gave a little talk. “I felt very special that they were willing died May 5 when his chopper went down in Afghanistan. to devote their valuable time and energies to give Eric Photo by William Moss ‘ recognition -- not only Eric, but all service people,” he A few weeks earlier, he’d received a call from Gregg said. Totten said his brother joined the Army shortly after Schmitt, director of the Minneapolis-based “Tribute to the high school when a lifelong friend who had gotten into Troops.” Schmitt asked Totten if members of the motor- drugs committed suicide. “He decided he didn’t want to cycle group could stop by to pay their respects for the go that way. He decided to make something out of his loss of his brother. Chief Warrant Offi cer 3 Eric W. Totten, life,” Totten recalled. “So at the young, tender age of 18 34, an Army Chinook helicopter pilot, was killed when he joined the Army to play in the Army band.” The soldier his chopper went down in Afghanistan on May 5. Totten musician then went on to become a Ranger, and in 1997 told Schmitt his family would welcome the group’s visit. was named Ranger of the Year. “Many Army people have Greeting the riders at his home Sept. 8, Totten pulled his told me that (achieving) that is like (winning) the Army brother’s dog tags, painted portrait and photo out of his Olympics,” Totten said. “Two real husky, muscle-bound car to show the riders. Schmitt, president of the Minne- soldiers came up to me and said, ‘I wouldn’t even begin sota booking agency, The Music Works, and Universal to think about trying to be Ranger of the Year like your South recording artist Rockie Lynne, co-founder of the brother did.’” The Ranger of the Year went through fl ight ride, gave Totten a framed portrait of his brother made school and realized that he’d found his calling in the mili- by volunteer Rick Block. Schmitt and Lynne founded the tary. “He simply loved it,” Totten said. “He got around the Tribute to the Troops ride Sept. 11, 2004. During that fi rst world on many important missions. He volunteered to do ride, about 60 bikers on 45 motorcycles visited the homes a fl ood-relief mission in Albania. He did two tours in Bos- of three fallen heroes in the Twin Cities metro area. Coor- nia. But he was humble. He never bragged about it. Most dinating the annual tribute, Schmitt said, is a way to give of the stuff that I found out about my brother was through back for all the good things in his life. “I’ve volunteered friends of his in the military. “He wasn’t one of those guys for a lot of different things, but never anything that felt as who said, ‘Look at me and look what I’ve done,’” Totten TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 6 luted or held their hand over their hearts as the funeral procession passed by. “Augusta is only a town of about 5,000 people, and it looked to me like the whole town was there,” Totten said. “When we passed the fi re depart- ment, they had a huge American fl ag hanging from a fully extended hook and ladder,” he said. “All of the fi remen were standing there at attention. Everybody stood still as the hearse drove by. It was like everybody froze in time. It was so impressive. “Before this, I had some doubts about this country’s patriotism,” Totten said. “At that moment I realized that patriotism is alive and well in this country.” Last week’s visit by the Tribute to the Troops riders once again rekindled Totten’s faith in America’s patriotism and compassion, he said. Having people acknowledge their loss gives them a welcome opportunity to talk about their loved one and share their grief, he said. “We very much appreciate it when people take their valuable time to give recognition to the families of the fallen and the wounded,” he said. “It is so cleansing for people to be able to talk”

stressed. “He just didn’t have that kind of personality. But, when he was asked to do something, he went beyond the call to do it and do it right and do it better than ever. That’s just the way Eric was.” At the time of his death, Totten said, his brother had reached the rank of chief war- rant offi cer 3 and was on his second tour in Afghanistan. Tribute to the Troops wasn’t the fi rst motorcycle group to acknowledge family’s loss, Totten said. Several hundred riders attended his brother’s funeral in Augusta, Kan., where their grandparents had bought 30 cemetery plots for the family shortly before World War II. After the family learned protesters planned to attend the funeral, Tot- ten said, the Patriot Guard called to offer their services. The nationwide motorcycle group, which grew to 50,000 members in just over a year, attends fallen troops’ funer- als as invited guests to pay respects and shield mourning family members and friends from protestors. “When we came out of the church, we didn’t realize there were going to be 400-plus Patriot Guard riders there,” Totten recalled. “The sight was spine-tingling. “We were walking out of the church, getting into our limousines as they were loading the casket into the hearse, and we noticed each Patriot Guard rider had a 3-by-5-foot American fl ag,” he said. “They’d formed a line on each side of the drive. It was as if we were driving under a canopy of American fl ags.” Totten said the townspeople did not know his brother, but when they heard about the protestors, they lined the side of road. The few that didn’t have a fl ag either sa-

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 7 TTECHECH TTIPSIPS by Phil Isley Service Manager BBalloonalloon South Richmond Harley-Davidson Richmond,Virginia BBikesikes

Winterization and Spring Prep Do you have a dead battery? Save yourself a headache. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially with motorcycles. When you store your bike for the Winter, there are a few inexpensive things you can do to prevent “Spring time blues” trying to start your bike in the Spring. The fi rst thing you need to do is install a battery tender. The plug hangs out under the seat so you don’t have to re- move the seat or battery to charge up the battery, just plug it in and leave it until you’re ready to ride. Harley-Davidson has a “smart charger” that plugs into any standard recep- “In the wind”? Or should we say something more tacle and is small enough to store in a windshield bag. like “Out of wind”, after blowing up all the bal- Make sure your tank is fi lled with 93 octane gas and add loons needed to construct these amazing cre- one ounce of Mavel Mystery Oil. This will cut down on ations. Too cool! Pics sent in by our own Ricky gumming of the carburetor or fuel injectors. Then try to Derby – Thanks! start your bike once a month and let it run 5-10 minutes. When it’s time to ride, your battery and fuel system will be as ready as you are. Before you hit the road, be sure to check your tire pressure. Improper infl ation is dangerous. Also recheck your oil level per your owner’s manual. If you do not have this informa- tion, call your local dealer and they can provide this for you. On a Harley, the bike has to be on it’s jiffy stand with the engine warm. Other bikes may vary in this procedure but it needs to be done. Once all your fl uid levels and tire pressures are correct, do a walk around to be sure that your front and rear turn signals operate properly, hi/lo beam on your head light, and check your brakes. As much as you like to ride, it would be really cool to be able to stop when you need to.

Ride Safe, Phil

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 8 TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 9 you would expect, it was quick and quiet. Silently you speed down the asphalt on a very stable machine. About the only thing that I can tell you about this ride and most of the V-Rods® that I have been on is that they are very obedient, trustworthy and dependable. Although there is no roaring thunder from the v-twin, you can appreciate the slight exhaust noise and the sound of the mechanics from the engine laboring underneath you. The thrill of the acceleration and how fast it stops with ease is amazing. The best part about it is that every time you do it, it is just as much fun. Of course you always want just a little more.

Now to play with the new 240-rear tire. From a standing start, you can still smoke the rear tire. That did not surprise me at all. Now for the turning chrematistics, how will this affect the ride? First, I just turned real slow in a circle on a two-lane road to see if tight turning was affected. The 2007 VRSCAW V-Rod® To me, it did not seem to affect the ride much at all. Leaned over as far as I could comfortably and still on a tight turn, the rear seemed to take M.S.R.P. $16,495.00 a shorter path than the front. That would seem normal for a wider tire. There is a lot of difference from the 240 on this ride than there is when By Kirk Johnson you get up to the more radical 300 and 340 tires. Performance for the high-speed turns, at least to me, was not really For 2007, the V-Rod® sports a thinner drive belt with a wider tire affected. It may be my skill level, but for a daily rider, the performance and a frame that holds a 5 gallon fuel tank. and agility of the bike was not affected. If you want to make a run up the back way to Prescott that might be a different story. The only real dif- About the Bike ference with this tire as opposed to the 180 is when you are on very un- even, tired asphalt that has depressions where the tires ride, you get a User-friendly improvements for 2007 will please the daily rider im- feeling that the bike is being pushed to one side or the other, depending mensely. First and foremost, one of the biggest hang-ups with the older on what side of the depression you are on. That is the only real negative V-Rods® was the 3.7 Gallon fuel tank capacity. Now, with the wider to the larger tire; the meatier tire defi nitely looks great under you. frame they are able to put a full 5 gallon fuel tank in the frame without increasing ground clearance like they did with the Street-rod®. With the Summary wider frame they are now able to replace the 180 mm rear tire with nice fat 240 mm asphalt grabbing rear tire. Looks great! The V-Rod® is a great machine and a great ride. There are a lot of They also moved the ignition switch from under the right leg to a very user-friendly improvements for 2007. The new 5-gallon fuel capacity is accessible place just ahead of the forward cylinder. Now you don’t have a real biggy. Now you can go more than 100 miles before you have to to worry about the dreaded dropped key that disappears problem. refuel. What a drag that was. As you can see from the Dyno chart, this For 2007 they replaced the small battery that the V-Rod® had with a is no slouch. Right out of the box you get 100 hp – nice! The relocation bigger Dyna™ battery by moving the ECM to under the rear seat and of the ignition switch may seem like a little thing. Just ask any V-Rod® moving the coolant reservoir aft of the air box. owner about what a great and needed improvement that is. The great Currently there are 5 V-Rods®: the Night Rod™, Night Rod™ Special, looks of the new 240mm rear tire adds a look of being a more serious Street Rod™, VRSCX or the Screamin’ Eagle®, and of course the machine and the riding and handling of the V-Rod® has always been standard V-rod® or the VRSCAW. For 07 they all have a new thinner there. This is a great bike. carbon-fi ber belt fi nal drive, plus a fi ve-speed tranny with a multi-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath. Ride safe.

Test Drive Kirk www.motorcycletestdrive.com If you have read any of my past test rides, you know I’ve spent a fair amount of time on different V-Rods®. I like them a lot. I was not sure of what to expect with the new 07 model. It seemed like most of the improvements were with people friendly appointments. Not that this is bad; I think it is a great idea to clean up some of the shortcomings from the older models. As for handling and performance the only real change was rear tire and a wider frame. I had two different people tell me about how that 240 rear was going to affect the ride. Interestingly, they both had completely different ideas about how it would affect the ride. It was a very cold day here in the valley. I grew up in Iowa and used to cold weather. It’s cold in Iowa when it gets down to below zero and when it does, you know it is cold. Now when it gets below 60 here in the valley, it is cold. Today it was below cold so I only spent about an hour on the bike but loved every minute of it. With that little 100 hp mill warming up I played with the traffi c for a little bit to get comfortable with the new ride. So far, I was unable to tell any difference with the new 07 from the older models. After several miles, I decided to take to the side roads and play with the new machine. First thing out of the box was the passing test. Just what THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 10 HHotot NNews::::::::::::::::::::::::ews:::::::::::::::::::::::: Redline Performance Motorsports Inc. of Yorktown has released the beast into Hamp- ton Roads. The brand spankin new 1098 su- per bike is here. Dave Lillard, President of Redline, just acquired the hottest sport bike on the market and I was there to see it arrive. Words cannot explain the esthetic beauty of this bike. However do not think the design team at Ducati even consid- ered the looks when they built this bike. Every little bit of this bike was designed with performance in mind. This would explain how they built the most powerful twin cylinder engine in the world with the highest torque to weight ratio of any sport bike (yes even the Jap bikes!). To bring this awesome power to a hault, Ducati is the fi rst sport bike manufacturer to include Brembo Monobloc brakes as a standard item. They thankfully brought back the single sided swingarm, however they constructed it through a new construction method, which saves weight. They also took the elliptical throttle bodies from the GP6 and includ- ed them in the production bike. For those of who have no idea what I’m talking about, race bike performance, pure and simple. For those of you who do know what I’m talking about, I bet you want numbers. How about 160 hp to the massive rear wheel and 90+ ft-lb torque which is more then a lot of cars have. Don’t take my word for it, stop in and see the Dave or Scott at Redline at 7331 George Washington Mem. Hwy, call 757-989-5000, or visit www.redlinemotors.com. Enough talk, I will let the pictures speak for themselves. Bow Down Japan!

Mike “Hammer”

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 11 cont. from 5

fi rst weekend in June (2nd & 3rd) 2007. We plan to have North Carolina and 5th Anniversary of Second Brigade Cycles and Triumph, 1038 W Little Creek Rd, Norfolk VA Aircraft, Vintage Autos and Motorcycle displays and M/C. Donation at the gate includes admission, camping 23505. 12 pm - Charity ride begins @ D&D Cycles and are looking for anyone interested in “showing off” their (Electrical Hookups $10/Night extra) & live entertainment. ends at Northside Park Pavilion #5 in Norfolk, VA. 1 pm “machines.” We will have displays of anything with wings POW/MIA ceremony at noon on Saturday. Bike Games, - Cookout, Fun & Music @ Northside Park Pavilion #5. and wheels. The cars will be from street rods to classics, 50/50 Raffl e, Contests & more fun than ought to be legal. Raffl e of event prizes. Games, horseshoes, volleyball all kinds of motorcycles and planes from the usual to the All of this excitement nestled along the banks of a gently etc.. Most represented Club Trophy. 8pm - Cookout unusual. One of the planes we will have is a 1936 Beech rolling creek and surrounded by working components of Ends. No alcohol in the park please!. Proceeds will be Staggerwing, which we will be selling rides on. There will an antique mill. Come out enjoy Father’s Day weekend donated to Kidney Research! Any questions contact Larry be a Tuskegee Airman to talk to people concerning his with America’s favorite Vets, The Viet Nam Vets M/C “Sailor” Gilbreath (757) 485-1878 or (757) 856-2029. experiences and he is selling a book he wrote for kids. USA of North Carolina. Sponsored by Viet Nam Vets M/C USA - North Carolina, Contact: Doc Ski, Email: He is a very interesting gentleman. On June 3rd, we will AUGUST 2007 do Young Eagles from noon till 4:00PM. This event is [email protected] Phone: (919) 662-6229, Fax: 919- sponsored by the Experimental Aircraft Assoc. (EAA). 933-7934, Website: www.vnvmcnc.org Aug 6th – 12th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally – Sturgis, SD This is for young people ages 8 to 17. These young th people will learn about planes and get to fl y in a small Jun 17 Visit www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com plane, free, then receive a certifi cate. Their name will then Father’s Day – No honey-do lists today Big daddys...let’s go into a logbook at the EAA headquarters. Saturday’s ride!! August 16th-18th 7th Annual America’s 9/11 Ride – From Somerset, PA to Arlington, VA ‘POLICE event will be from 10 AM - 4 PM. Sunday the show starts th rd at Noon and lasts until??? We say 4, but last year there Jun 20 – 23 ESCORTED’. Join with the foundation on the 7th annual were folks still milling around at 6 p.m. There will be Honda Hoot – Knoxville, TN ride to all three crash sites and Honor the Heroes and various vendors and food is available. While you’re there, Visit www.hondahoot.com for more info Victims of September 11 2001. August 16th group rides from across America to Somerset, PA. Friday August 17, visit the Throttleback Cafe (which is located inside the st rd airport terminal). Jun 21 – 23 the ride begins @ 7:30am depart Somerset, PA heading VA State HOG Rally – Williamsburg, VA to Pentagon in Arlington VA. Saturday August 18th, @7: Jun 8th & 9th Visit www.vastatehogrally.com 30am departure the Pentagon heading to the site of the 12th Annual South Central Bike Fair - Chase City, VA World Trade Center (NYC). Ride both days or just one. 25-Class Bike Show ($250 Best of Show), Rodeo, $500 June 23rd Don’t forget to buy your chance on the 2007 Chopper, Poker Run, Tattoo Contest, Nightly Wet T-shirt Contest, June 23rd: 3rd Annual EPC ABATE Bike Show. ‘The Day After’. Proceeds go to college scholarship for Camping, Live Music, Vendors, Food, & More. Friday- Martinsburg, WV First Responders Nation wide. For more Information Hotrod/Bike Cruz-In** Live Music ** Vendors** Camping. www.epcabate.org please visit www.americas911foundation.org or Saturday- Live Music ** Bike Show** Poker Run** www.americas911ride.org or call 877-771-0118. Rodeo **Vendors. **T-shirt & Tattoo Contests ** Burnout Jun 24th Pit**Drawings & Giveaways**.www.southcentralbikefair. SEPTEMBER 2007 com. Contact Dana after 8pm 434.372.5554 2nd Annual Summer Splash Poker Run Eastern Shore HOG - Ocean City, MD www.easternshorehog.com Sept 15th Jun 8th - 10th Contact: Jerry Lawson, Chairman, ESC Summer Splash Flaming Knights M/C Norfolk Chapter 5th Annual 13th Annual National Heaven’s Saints Motorcycle Poker Run e-mail: [email protected] Trophy Party - Norfolk, VA 9pm - 2am, Elk Lodge # 38, Ministry Friends & Family Rally - Murphy, NC 1231 Type Ave, Norfolk, VA 23502. $15 donation. BYOB, Peace Valley Campground, Murphy, NC. www.peacevalle JULY 2007 food available, 50/50 raffl e, Trophies, Cash. Host Hotel ycampground.com Best Western930 North Military Hwy, Norfolk. For more Jul 4th st info contact Doc Savage (757) 589-8795, Big J (757) 435- Jun 9th Independence Day – Happy 231 Birthday USA! 0687, Jay Deuce (202 ) 409-5776, Dlegend (757) 535- 3108, Kingfi sh (757) 270-1608, Jewel (757) 270-5718. Bike Rally for the Special Olympics Virginia Summer Jul 5th – 7th Games - Richmond, VA The Chesterfi eld County Parks Delaware/Maryland State HOG Rally – Dover, DE Sept 23rd and Recreation Department along with Chesterfi eld Visit www.mddestatehogrally.com County Police Department and Chesterfi eld County EPC ABATE Family Picnic - Falling Waters, WV Sheriff’s Offi ce will be co-sponsoring a biker rally that Jul 18th – 22nd www.epcabate.org will benefi t the Special Olympics Virginia Summer West Virginia State HOG Rally – Canaan Valley Resort, Games. This event will take place on Saturday, June WV OCTOBER 2007 9th with registration starting at 8 a.m. and departing to the University of Richmond campus at 11 a.m. . The Jul 20th – 22nd Oct 3rd – 7th Myrtle Beach Fall Rally – Myrtle Beach, registration fee of $15 per person, a rally pin and free Carlisle Summer Bike Fest - Carlisle PA SC www.myrtlebeachbikeweek.com lunch and wonderful musical entertainment after the ride Thousands of motorcycles, acres of vendors, a too. All proceeds from this event will go directly benefi t motorcycling paradise with 82 cares of two-wheeled Oct 18th - 21st Biketoberfest® - Daytona Beach FL the Special Olympics Virginia Summer Games! For more entertainment. Motocross competition, motorcycle Annual Motorcycle Festival held in the beautiful Daytona information on this event, please call Mark Pinney at 804- giveaways, beauty contest, seminars, stunt riders, dyno Beach area. Ride with us before the cold of winter sets 748-1992 or Major David Hutton at 804-751-4419. testing, burn-outs, a swap meet, celebrity guests, custom in. Many, many great events countywide! Sponsored by bike builder roundtable, and sponsor Midway. The Carlisle th st Daytona Beach Area CVB. Contact: Janet Kersey, (866) Jun 9 Salty Dawgs Motorcycle Riding Club 1 Summer Bike Fest: the bikes, the people, the excitement. Annual Poker Run - Virginia Beach, VA Benefi ting 296-8970, Fax: (386) 255-5478. Email: jkersey@dayton For information visit the web site: www.carlisleevents.com abeachcvb.org. www.Biketoberfest.org the Fisher House (www.fi sherhouse.org); Supporting or call us at (717) 243-7855. Sponsored by Carlisle America’s military in their time of need they provide “a Events. Contact: Mike Blake, Email: mikeb@carlisleeven home away from home” that enables family members Oct 26th - 28th ts.com, Phone: (717) 243-7855. 5th Annual Virginia Fall Classic - Newport News, VA to be close to a loved one at the most stressful time Website: www.carlisleevents.com - during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury. www.VaFallClassic.org Registration at Boneshakers Saloon off of General Booth Jul 21st Thunder on the Mountain II - Hillsville, VA starting at 9am, last bike out 11am ride ends at the 392 Thunder on the Mountain II located at Lake Ridge RV NOVEMBER VFW, 2408 Bowland Pkwy, Va. Beach (located behind Resort, Hillsville, VA, with Vendors, Food, Motorcycle Blue Horseshoe Tattoo, London Bridge Blvd). Featuring Rodeo, Bike Show, Benefi t Ride, Live Music by Back Nov 4th Daylights Savings Time Ends – Fall Back door prizes, 50/50 drawing and food. For information call Kountry, and camping discounts. For more information (Pres) Pat at 757-548-8462 or Brian at 757-473-9385. We - Set your clocks back 1 hour! Dang! Lose an hour of www.vabikersassoc.org, or 276-728-2466 and 540- daylight riding time… are still looking sponsors. Come join us and support our 980-5687. troops and their families. nd th th Nov 22 Jun 9 – 17 Jul 21st Down Rider Run - Martinsburg, WV HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! LACONIA Motorcycle Week – Laconia, NH from this ride go to the Eastern Panhandle Down Rider Visit www.laconiamcweek.com Fund. www.epcabate.org DECEMBER Jun 14th Jul 21 FLAG DAY – Fly ‘em proudly! 4th Annual Charity Run for the Kidney Disease Dec 25th Research - Norfolk, VA MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! Jun 15th – 17th Sponsored by the Flaming Knights M/C. Northside Park VNV M/C USA Road Dog Run - Sanford, NC Pavilion #5. $5 per rider, $5 per passenger, $1 Raffl e 23rd Anniversary Celebration of Viet Nam Vets M/C of tickets. 09:00AM – Registration for the ride @ D&D

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 12 TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 1313 24th Annual Baltimore, MD Budweiser International Motorcycle Show

January 19-21, 2007

The Baltimore Convention Center was the host site for this event enjoyed by all those who braved the weather. In the lobby, the Chesapeake Chapter of Antique Mo- torcycle Club displayed restored and original antiques. They provided history and introduction to the modern day motorcycles. The most “original”, so to speak, was the 1911 HD “Silent Gray Fellow” featured a single cylinder, 35 cubic inches, 4 HP. Original price: then $250, price now: priceless- which means if you have to ask, you can’t afford it! People’s Choice awards for “Best in Show” went to B.C. Choppers from Warrenton , V.A. with a beautiful Special Construction Radical Chopper. The People’s Choice “Best Bike Display” was awarded to Chris Rockhill, “Tigger” with a 2001 HD 883 Sportster from New Kent Co, VA. Judges selected Best in Show to Mike Haman with a 2006 Special Construction Radical Chopper. Custom bike builders/designers/fabricators included: Gangster Chop- pers & Hot Rod Shop, Outlaw Customs, Lucky Cycles, Randy Payne Motorsports, Vicious Cycles, C & C Cycles, D.C. Cruisers, Boss Hoss Cycles of MD, Backyard Cus- tom Cycles & Machine Shop, Cross Road Custom Cycles & BC Choppers, and Honda, Yamaha, Ducati dealers. Painters: Artistic Creations, Pro Art Works. Shopping opportunities included: Easy Leather, Stoltzfus RV’s and Marine, Lady Hawke Custom and Handmade Jewelry- Providing the parts to customize, WFO BikerParts.com/ Custom Cycles of VA, Mechanicsville and Rob’s Used Harley Parts.com, Herndon, VA. Rob’s had many bike parts at the show and they specialize in Evo parts. The Rolling Thunder, Inc. Virginia Chapter 3 sponsored a raffl e to win two beautifully custom-painted bikes honoring our POW/MIAs: a 2007 Road King and 1200 Sportster. The lucky winner will win both bikes to be announced at the Rolling Thunder 2007 Memorial Day “Run to the Wall” ride. (Buy a ticket when you can…3 tickets for $10!) Many beautiful Harley show bikes, choppers, and trikes were scattered throughout the show grounds. Some that bring to mind are: Larry Crabtree’s Custom 2003 HD Electra Glide Classic, Richie Conrad’s Amen a 2005 Softail Savior: a beautiful custom painted Chopper, Linda Habercam’s 2005 Viking Streetfi ghter frame Custom 1200 conv. Sportster hardtail, Chris Milliron’s HD 2001 Road King Police Edition retired from Rockville, MD, P.D. and Linda Sedler’s 1986 fl ame-painted HD Custom Sportster: “It’s… Cazual.” For more information on the Bike & Rider Show Point Series 2007 Schedule, e-mail [email protected].

Thunder Roads Magazine contributors: Cathy & Chris (Tigger)

TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 1414

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 16 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 17 BBIKESIKES AREARE BACKBACK ONON THETHE BIGBIG SCREENSCREEN Info & Pictures from Yahoo! Movies GHOST RIDER Release Date: February 16th, 2007 A motorcycle stuntman, Johnny Blaze, makes a pact with a dark force, selling his soul to save his girlfriend. When the bargain goes sour and the girl isn’t saved, Blaze is transformed, gaining raging superpowers. Based on the Marvel comic series. Starring Nicholas Cage, Wes Bentley, Eva Mendes, Matthew Long, Peter Fonda Rated PG-13

WILD HOGS Release Date: Mar 2nd, 2007 A group of middle-aged friends decide to rev up their routine suburban lives with a freewheeling motorcycle trip. Tak- ing a long dreamed-of breather from their stressful jobs and family responsibilities, they can’t wait to feel the freedom of the open road. When this mis-matched foursome - who have grown far more used to the couch than the saddle - set out for this once-in-a-lifetime experience, they encounter a world that holds far more than they ever bargained for. The trip begins to challenge their wits and their luck, especially during a chance run-in with the Del Fuegos, a real-life biker gang who are less than amused with their novice approach. As they go looking for adventure, they soon fi nd that they’ve embarked on a journey they will never forget. Starring John Travolta, Tim Allen, Martin Lawrence & William H. Macy Rated PG-13

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 18 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 19 TThehe BrandBrand NewNew CycleCycle WorksWorks GGrandrand OOpening,pening, JanJan 27,27, 20072007

If you’ve ever driven down Route 17 through Glouces- while he or she is there and needs to do some temporary ter, VA., you’ve probably noticed a cycle accessory shop fi xing to get them home. Now that’s an owner who cares called Cycle Works. For those of you who have visited about his customers! In 3 to 4 months, Cycle Works will their shop in the past & also for those who’ve never taken have a fully functioning online store on their website and a moment to stop in, it’s time to check them out because over the next year is looking to expand the size of the you’re in for a cool surprise. Cycle Works as of late De- shop. To make you feel more at home, every Sunday, cember 06’ came under new ownership. Who better to they offer free coffee and doughnuts buy a shop that sells accessories to bikers than bikers! while you’re shopping, to help warm you up. Gary will also The new owners, Gary and Tammy Jones, are commit- be taking motorcycles on consignment. ted to making sure you’re treated like family. I went to After seeing the traffi c coming in and out of the store, you their offi cial grand opening & it was very cold and windy. know they must have something good going on. Gary However, the amount of bikes that rolled in that day and Tammy are looking to involve themselves in the biker showed me how devoted the customers were to this shop community and plan on sponsoring many local events in already, even after being open for only one month. They the future. Let’s face it people, an HJC helmet or a pair were welcomed to hot food and drinks as well as a ton of of chaps is the same no matter where you buy it, give or give-a-ways. take a few bucks. The most important thing to know about Cycle Works carries all the popular accessories for you Cycle Works is their customers are treated with respect and your scoot. If they don’t have it, Gary will order it and always feel welcome. This is where they will stand for you. Cycle out among the Works also will average bike busi- be carrying the nesses. They’re top brands of oil a family shop, and other basic YOUR family shop, maintenance and we’d like to parts to keep welcome them to your service Hampton Roads costs down to a and the Thunder minimum. Some- Roads family! thing I thought Visit them at 1747 was really amaz- George Washing- ing is that Gary ton Mem. Hwy. keeps full sets (Rt 17), Gloucester of both standard Point, VA or call and metric tools them at 804-642- handy in the 3334. back in case a customer has Mike “Hammer” a bike problem TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 2020 TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 2121 Easyriders/V-Twin Bike Show Tour By Tim Wilmoth The Easyriders Bike Show Tour rolled into Charlotte NC, the weekend of January 27th & 28th, 2007, one of only four “two day” events on the 12 city tour. That’s a good thing ‘cause you really needed two days to look at every- thing. With clear blue skies overhead, bikers rolled into downtown Charlotte all weekend. Nearly 11,000 people passed through the doors to check out some of the fi n- est iron ever assembled on the east coast. In addition to the bikes there was also a vast array of vendors…leather, ‘73 Shovel with 39 Girder t-shirts, rolling frames, wheels, custom parts, custom painters and tattooists. If you couldn’t fi nd it in the Charlotte Convention Center, you probably didn’t need it all that bad to start with. There was something in the building for everyone - Flatheads, Knuckles, Pans, Evolution’s, Indians, Asian & American Sportbikes and several of the best looking, oriental choppers I’ve ever seen. Everything from a one of a kind, dropped & chopped custom Vincent from Redneck Engineering to chopped mini bikes and interactive displays to keep the kids as well as the “kids at heart” amused. From as far away as Michigan, Florida, Texas and every- where in between, they came to Carolina to show off their art. And yes it’s defi nitely art. Masterpiece’s that’ll smoke the rear wheel and carry you down the road at better than Best in Show Winner a hundred mph. The Judged and Spectator classes con- sisted of more than 140 bikes, some shop built and some home builds, all of them shining with pride and accomplish- ment. Attendees could spend hours strolling along admiring the craftsmanship put into each and every one of these machines and when you got tired of hoofi ng it around you could go get a cold brew and watch “The Purrfect Angels” fashion show or a performance of one of their USO dance routine’s. Jasmine Cain rocked the building as she took the stage three times on Saturday and twice more Sunday, belting out tunes that ranged from Pat Benatar to AC/DC. In between the stage shows, Bruce Henderson, the event MC, kept the crowd going with drawings for free stuff and on many occasions, just slinging t-shirts, hats and other goodies out into the mass of people gathered around. Sofi a’ Parnacelli, Ms. Easyriders 2007, was also on hand and available for photo ops on a replica “Captain America” panhead. Departure’s Virginian Bike builders Kendall Johnson and Paul Yaffe were at the show both days with their Discovery channel “Build Off” bikes, signing autographs and posing for pictures. Depar- ture Bike Works from Richmond brought a couple of bikes to the show. One of which was “The Virginian”, the 103” panhead that the shop built for an “as yet to air” episode of Biker Build Off. This radical rocket is truly a “departure from the norm”. Gangster Choppers, also out of Richmond, was at the show with four fi ne examples of what John and the crew does best…immaculate, old school choppers. Another Virginia shop that came to the ball was Big Cock Choppers from Warrenton (it’s a rooster ya’ll, their logo is a big ‘ol rooster). Mike Flammia and the gang brought down two fi ne rides. Their newest creation is a radical evo that rolls on a 360 rear tire. You’ve got to see it to believe it. An indecisive squirrel caught in the middle of the road with this thing bearing down on him wouldn’t stand a chance. If you wanted to see some bike fabrication, well, that was going on too. Austin Weiss, the 23 year old builder Event View TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 2222 from Florida, is traveling with the tour building a bike under the watchful eye of the crowd. This particular weekend he was concentrating on the gas tank, forming the pieces out of sheet metal and welding them into place. The custom ride, when completed, will be auctioned off at the Daytona Beach Bikers Ball in March of ’08, the proceeds to benefi t the Florida Boys & Girls Clubs. Ralph Randolph of Rockem & Sockem motorcycle company had a sweet rigid shovel on display at his booth. That ride will be given away at the Easyriders Rodeo Tour fi nale in Chillicothe Ohio, Labor Day weekend 2007. And if that wasn’t enough, everyone that walked through the door got an opportunity to register for a Carolina Customs built, drop seat radical ride to be given away at the show tour fi nale in Kansas City. The list of shops represented at the show goes on & on: Milwau- kee Iron, Southside Customs, The Chopp Shopp, Carolina Customs and Nightmare Customs just to name a few. All of which had examples of their style on display. Ocean Evo A new class added to the show this year is the “Pro-Build” class. Over 20 shops rolled their best efforts onto the red carpet near the event stage. All vying for a “master builder” spot on the 2008 Easyriders Centerfold tour. Only three from each event are chosen to attend the prestigious “Invitational” in Kansas City Missouri on May 5th. From a possible fi eld of 33 at the fi nale, only 6 will make the fi nal cut. Some of these bikes were just stand there, slack jawed, drool all over your shoes mesmerizing. Those chosen to go to Kansas City from the Charlotte show were: Shan- non Davidson with The Chopp Shopp built, 2007 Air Ride from Taylorsville, NC.; Austin Weiss/Streamline Designs built “Envy” out of Pompono, Fla. and the unbelievable, twin turbo, friction drive machine of Mike Pruss & South Florida Choppers from West Palm beach. The editors also chose three competitors for 1st, 2nd & 3rd Best In Show from the Judged class and the Specta- Orange Sunshine tor class. These bikes are also invited to the fi nals and will have features done on them in one of the magazines. One of these was the “Soulshine bobber” owned by Ben Jordan of Waxhaw NC, a bright yellow gold ’73 rigid shovel with a ’39 Indian girder. That bike is one of the neatest, cleanest shovelheads I’ve seen in a long time. All total, there were 41 awards given out at the end of the show. Six of those came back to Virginia and are as follows:

Earl Laurie/Gangster Choppers… 3rd Place, Antique/Old School-Spectator class with a ’49 FLH bobber…Richmond Va. Michael Todd Mason ……3rd Place Specialty-Spectator Class with his 1997 Ultra Kustom Cruiser….Ferrum Va. John Dodson/Gangster Choppers…2nd Place Judged-Best of Show with their ’68 FLH chopper…”Gang Green”…Rich- mond Va. James Johnston/BC Choppers ….3rd Place Judged-Best Me & 2nd Place Specialty winner – Bubba Radical with their 2005 Pro Street Warrenton Va. Lee Clemens/Departure Bike Works….3rd Place Judged- Best Specialty with their 2000 XL hot rod…..”Ghettoblast- er”…Richmond Va. Tim Wilmoth….1st Place Judged-Best Antique/Old School with his ’47 EL Knucklehead Amelia Va. After having been to this event I can honestly say that the Charlotte Easyriders show is the best bike show I’ve ever been to and if you love to ogle beautiful bikes all day, then you should plan on attending next year. You won’t be disap- pointed.

Austin Weiss building a tank TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 2323 PAULA DEEN’S “Queen Of Southern Cuisine” LUCK O’ THE IRISH PISTACHIO ICE-CREAM & EXTRA CRISPY, LIP SMACKIN’, FRIED CHICKEN SWEET TOFFEE TOPPING 3 Eggs 1 Cup of Crushed, Butter Flavored Crackers 1/4 Cup Butter; Melted 1/2 Cup Water 3/4 Cup Cold Whole Milk 2 Cups Self-Rising Flour 1 Pkg. Jell-O Pistachio Pudding Mix 1 tsp. Black Pepper 1 Qt. Vanilla Ice-Cream, Softened 1 to 2-1/2 lb. chicken; cut into pieces or buy your 1 Tub of Cool-Whip; thawed pieces already cut-up in the pieces you prefer 2 Large Pkgs. of Heath Candy Bars; crushed Crisco shortening for frying In a bowl, combine the cracker crumbs & butter. Press Beat eggs with water. Add just enough self-rising fl our into an un-greased 9 in. baking pan. Bake at 325 for 7-10 min. or until lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack. to coat all the chicken; add black pepper to fl our. Dip Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk milk & pudding mix seasoned chicken in egg. Coat each piece with fl our for 2 mins. or until soft-set. Stir in ice cream; pour over mixture. Fry in moderately hot shortening (350 de- crust. Cover & freeze for 2 hrs. or until fi rm. Spread w/ grees) until golden and crisp. * Paula adds hot sauce Cool Whip; sprinkle generously with crushed Heath to the eggs for an added zip! * Crispy chicken requires bars. Cover & freeze for (1) hour until fi rm. Slice with either a large cast iron skillet, a deep oil fryer with bas- hot knife to form (9) x-large squares. Delish Dessert! ket, or the deep-style electric skillet with the dome lid. LEPRECHAUN’S FROSTY KEY LIME PIE; Made Easy 1 Can Carnation Condensed Milk Again from the cooking genius of Paula comes...... 6 Tbls. Key Lime Juice GRANDMOTHER PAULA’S SOUR CREAM 2 Cups Heavy Whipping Cream, Whipped & Divided POUND CAKE 1 Graham Cracker Crust 1/2 Pound (two sticks) Butter In a large bowl, combine milk & lime juice. Refrigerate 1/4 cup whipped cream for garnish. Fold a fourth of 3 Cups Sugar the remaining whipped cream into lime mixture; fold in 1 Cup Sour Cream remaining whipped cream. Spoon into crust. Cover & 3 Cups All-Purpose Flour refrigerate overnight. Remove from the freezer 10-15 1/2 tsp. Baking Soda min. before serving. Garnish w/ reserved whipped 6 Eggs cream. * Note that for every 1 cup of whipping cream it 1 tsp. Real Vanilla Extract actually makes 2 cups of whipped cream. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Mix cream, butter and HOMEMADE CREAMY SALSA DRESSING sugar together; add sour cream. Sift fl our & baking soda 1/4 Jar of your favorite brand of Salsa together. Add to creamed mixture, alternately with eggs, 6 Tbs. Lime Juice one at a time, beating after each. Add vanilla. Pour into 1 Cup Whole Milk a greased & fl oured tube pan and bake for 1 hour 20 Salt & Pepper to Taste min. * Paula was on Oprah making this cake and Oprah Shake it up in the jar and pour it out. Good stuff! asked, “what would you say to health conscious individ- uals who cite all the rich ingredients in your recipes?”. Here’s A Quick Idea* Next time you stir up the egg mixture for your To which Paula immediately replied, “I’m your cook, not deviled eggs, add a can of premium quality lump crabmeat to the mix....makes for a truly unique and tasty change. 2nd Quick Idea your dang Doctor!!.” Right On, Paula!. * Fry some pork chops up in a skillet and then pour an entire jar of Salsa over top and simmer....makes Mexi-Chops. Ole’!

TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 2424 NCOM News Bytes

FREEDOM OF CHOICE MAY COME WITH A PRICE TELEVISION DOESN’T REFLECT REALITY Most TAG Pennsylvania motorcyclists successfully modi- people drive safer than television characters, according fi ed their mandatory helmet law in 2003 to allow riders to a University of Alabama at Birmingham study. The UAB 18 and older the option of wearing a helmet, but now a study of 79 prime time TV shows revealed that actors of- lawmaker wants bikers who don’t wear a helmet to carry ten don’t buckle up before they drive and sometimes don’t at least $10,000 in medical insurance to cover injuries wear helmets when they ride motorcycles and bicycles. if they crash. State Sen. Constance Williams says the The research study, published in the journal Injury Scienc- requirement honors bikers’ freedom to ride helmetless es, found that over four weeks the television characters while making sure they take fi nancial responsibility for buckled up only 62 percent of the time. The TV characters their decision. Governor Ed Rendell, who signed the used motorcycle helmets only 47 percent of the time and law that allows bikers to ride without a helmet, has said bicycle helmets nine percent of the time. Research shows more Pennsylvanians die from smoking than motorcycle most Americans are much safer — buckling seat belts 80 accidents, but Sen. Williams cites a national report being percent of time, using motorcycle helmets 60 percent of circulated among State Legislatures that says highway fa- the time bicycle helmets 40 percent of the time. “Since talities are on the rise for the fi rst time in 20 years, linking Americans watch more than four hours of TV per day, the increase to deaths from motorcycle crashes. how safety behaviors are depicted on television can have tremendous infl uence on public perception of seatbelt and NEW TWIST FOR HELMET LAW MODIFICATION Lost helmet use,” said Gerald McGwin, Ph.D., associate direc- revenues from tourism has become a common theme tor for research at the Center for Injury Sciences and one for modifying helmet laws in states that claim motorcy- of the study authors. Researchers also studied 21,670 clists are riding around them and spending their vacation television commercials that McGwin says present a safer money in other states that don’t require helmets. Now depiction, with seatbelt use by 86 percent of individuals, Virginia has taken that argument a step further by pro- motorcycle helmet use 100 percent and bike helmet use posing legislation that would allow motorcyclists to ride 84 percent. without a helmet on state scenic highways. On all other roads, police would not be allowed to stop riders for not CONNECTICUT BIKERS WANT TO RAISE THE BAR Connecticut State Reps Wilbur and Zalaski have co-spon- wearing helmets unless they are stopped for another driv- sored a bill to repeal their 15-inch handlebar height law. ing offense such as speeding, making the helmet violation CT statute # 14-80i(b) reads: “No person shall operate a a secondary offense. Virginia motorcyclists are request- motorcycle on a highway or in any parking area for ten ing help from across the country to pass HB 2585, asking or more motor vehicles if the motorcycle is equipped with riders to write their Delegates to let them know that you handlebars that are more than fi fteen inches in height would spend your tourism dollars in Virginia if the state above the uppermost portion of the seat when the seat allowed freedom of choice on its beautiful scenic byways. is depressed by the weight of the operator.” Rep. Wilber, Bikers in Nebraska also want the right to make their own who co-sponsored this bill with Rep Zalazki, had an OLR decisions about helmets, saying the current helmet law legislative report done that concluded that high handle- is costing the state $2-5 million a year during annual bike bars are not a safety issue. The report also found that festivals in neighboring states because motorcyclists there has been a trend across the country to change the avoid riding through helmet law states. Motorcyclists are height restriction law with 16 states completely repealing lobbying the Unicameral legislature in Lincoln to support the law. HB 6937 is currently under consideration in the LB 253, a bill that would allow riders 21 and older to ride Transportation Committee, and would completely repeal without a helmet. ABATE of Nebraska is not asking for the handlebar law 14-80i(b), allowing Connecticut riders letters or phone calls to their legislators at this juncture, to decide for themselves what height their handlebars but they would like for out-of-state riders to visit their should be. website at www.abateofne.com and fi ll out a simple online poll that will allow them to put together written testimony VIRGINIA RIDERS BESIDE THEMSELVES Virginia from motorcyclists from across the nation. ”ABATE of is only one of two states that specifi cally prohibit two Nebraska has once again fi led legislation to establish motorcycles to ride two abreast in a traffi c lane, but riders Freedom Of Choice for adult motorcyclists,” said Tiger there are hoping to change that. HB 1808 has passed out Mike Revere, state coordinator for ABATE of Oklahoma of Transportation Committee and bikers are urging their and member of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists Delegates to support the bill when it comes up for a vote. (NCOM) Board of Directors. “They have appealed for our They argue, among other things, that two motorcycles help, and I pledged NCOM’s support for their campaign. abreast in a traffi c lane aids in making the motorcycles Unfortunately, I have the additional subject of the Helmet more visible to other traffi c, and that in larger groups of Law assault in Oklahoma to address.” cont. 31 TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 2525 You know you‛re getting old when

25. Your houseplants are alive, and you can‛t smoke any of them.

24. Having sex in a twin bed is out of the ques- tion.

23. You keep more food than beer in the fridge.

22. 6:00 AM is when you get up, not when you go to bed.

21. You hear your favorite song in an elevator.

20. You watch the Weather Channel more than once a day.

19. Your friends marry and divorce instead of “hook up” and “break up.”

18. You go from 130 days of vacation time to 14.

17. Jeans and a sweater no longer qualify as “dressed up.” 4. “I just can‛t drink the way I used to” replaces 16. You‛re the one calling the police because those “I‛m never going to drink that much again.” %&@# kids next door won‛t turn down the stereo. 3. 90% of the time you spend in front of a com- 15. Older relatives feel comfortable telling sex puter is for real work. jokes around you. 2. When you Þ nd out your friend is pregnant you 14. You don‛t know what time Taco Bell closes congratulate them instead of asking “What the hell anymore. happened?”

13. Your car insurance goes down and your car 1. And the number one sign you are getting old is: payments go up. You read this entire list looking desperately for one sign that doesn‛t apply to you and can‛t Þ nd one! 12. You feed your dog Science Diet instead of McDonald‛s leftovers. Thanks for sending the smiles on this George! Re- member to think of yourselves as a Þ ne wine…you 11. Sleeping on the couch makes your back hurt. get better with age.

10. You take naps.

9. Dinner and a movie is the whole date instead of the beginning of one.

8. Eating a basket of chicken wings at 3 AM would severely upset, rather than settle, your stomach.

7. You go to the drug store for ibuprofen and ant- acid, not condoms and pregnancy tests.

6. A $4.00 bottle of wine is no longer “pretty good shit.”

5. You actually eat breakfast food at breakfast time.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 26 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 27 with Jen Martin THE RHYTHM PIGS If you look up the word Rhythm in the dictionary, there are sev- eral defi nitions that ultimately come to the same conclusion, rhythm is a pattern of repeated elements. That general defi ni- tion would be comparative to the level of extraordinary talent within our artists of the month - The Rhythm Pigs. With emergent magnetism these four artists have gathered the ears of their listeners and produced loyal fans up and down the east coast. What is the recipe for Rhythm Pigs? Combine former members of the Jimmy Van Zant Band and the BluzBlasters, sauté over high heat for about 6 years, stir in a little jazz, blues, a little rock and a little country. Just continue to rouse until you have a soupy mix of south- ern rock fusion. On vocals you have Mike Fiemster, who has no issue with strumming his harp or his acoustic guitar while entertaining you with his rhythmic moves & fancy footwork . On lead and slide guitar we have the incred- ible Jimmy Williams, a defi nite show stopper whose magi- cal chords have been compared to many legendary guitar players. Holding it down on the bass line, is the beautiful & extremely talented Wendi Phillips. Laying the ground work & keeping things rockin’ on drums, we have the awesome, Timmy Fodrey, by whom we can thank for this culmination of musical excellence. All together we have a hardwork- ing group of individuals who respectfully re invent music through their cover pieces as well as their originals. What do they do? With full force intensity they rock every ralley, club, and college that they grace. They have toured with such rock and roll dignitaries as Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Charlie Dan- iels Band, David Allan Coe, Marshall Tucker Band, Molly Hatchet, Hank Williams JR, Savoy Brown, Blue Oyster Cult, CCR, Hank Williams III and many more. Every Sunday eve- ning they host an Open Mic Night at BayHaven Grill in York- town, Va. They have produced two CDs and have plenty to sell at every show. Currently, our four artists are working on an all original album which will be on sale just in time to be a stocking stuffer this Christmas. Hard working, hard rocking, and ever loving of their loyal fans, we thank our artists of the month for keeping true to the music and being among the fi nest recipes Virginia can offer to the musical community. “We’d like to give a special thanks to our manager, Ron- nie Bruffy who we love working with. He’s put a lot of hard work in through the years to keep us rollin’. I respect all the musicians that I have & I feel very blessed to have them.”… Timmy Fodrey If you would like to book the Rhythm Pigs for your next rally, run or gathering, contact Timmy Fodrey at (757) 286-6001 or Ronny Bruffy @ Swine Management (757) 285-5720. Also visit them at their website www.rhythmpigs.com to pur- chase their CDs or merchandise & check out where they’ll playing throughout 2007.

TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 2828

TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 2929 THUNDERon the road

Last month I froze my rear off riding to Maryland in the fog. I decided the next month I would take you on a real adventure. Recently you may have seen a movie called Blood Diamond starring Leonardo DeCaprio. If you haven’t, the movie detailed the bloody civil war that occurred in Sierra Leone and brought to light the horrible illegal diamond trade that occurs in the country. Now I am not much for movies so I fl ew to Sierra Leone to see the capitol city for myself. What I saw shocked me, amazed me, and in a lot of ways, changed me. First I fl ew across the Atlantic for the thousandth time (military trip) and stopped for a night in Brussels. I could write a whole article on the party scene there however I would have to watch the video I took because I don’t remember much! The next day we fl ew into Lungi International Airport, Freetown, Sierra Leone. We stepped off the plane and were greeted by burned out wrecks of airplanes riddled with bullet holes, and a burnt out helicopter fuselage. Now it was my understanding we would be taking an old Russian helicopter for a 7 minute ride to the main part of Freetown. The jungles are so thick throughout the countryside the 40-mile trip would have taken us roughly 6 hours. After that long 7 minutes on the helicopter, I was wondering if we would have been better off taking the jungle route. Let’s just say the following day that same helicopter had a controlled crash due to a fi re. That explains the collection of wrecked aircraft. Sierra Leone is a country that has been torn apart by civil war for over a decade. Some of the locals tell me the war ended because the people were just sick of fi ghting. The government in Sierra Leone lacks basic infrastructure. We were informed by our driver that before Christmas if you were off the coast on a boat you could not see the city because there was NO power anywhere except the hotels that had generators. The government, with the help from foreign aid, has now supplied power to much of the street- lights. The city is relatively peaceful in parts due to the presence of UN troops as well as a large contingent of mostly British soldiers and sailors that make up the IMATT. One thing I learned about the people of Sierra Leone is that despite the modern conveniences that most of us in the US take for granted, they are an extremely positive and resourceful people. One of the most moving parts of my trip was when I was taking a tour of the water front with a few locals. They showed me a large fl ight of steps that ascended from the dock to the street on the hill above. They were made of cracked stone and appeared old, yet they seem to give off a strong energy. I was told that these were the “Steps to Freedom”. For those of you who do not know, Freetown Sierra Leone was colonized by freed slaves that returned from the US after the Civil War. These very steps that I was standing on, were the steps the free men and women would run up after they left the shackles and boats behind them and this meant they were home and they were free. Talk about chills. Another thing that amazed me was the religious tolerance that I saw on all corners. It did not matter who you worshipped, Muslims and Christians walked together in the street and even prayed in the same make shift buildings they used as churches and mosques. I made friends with a man named Ali who showed us around town and introduced us to all sorts of people. I guess when you don’t have much you cherish the things you have and do not have the time to criticize other people for their beliefs but rather be thankful you are alive. I think no matter how rich or poor a country’s people are; we can all learn something from each other. After two weeks I boarded a very crowded ferryboat that took me back to the airport in absence of the helicopter, which was a good thing. There is so much more to this trip I did not have the room to write about. Ask me about it sometime. On the way home we swung by London for a night, had a pint, and slept for quite awhile. This trip, I made many new friends, learned many new things, and reaffi rmed a very old saying. “The world is an open book, to not travel is to read only a page.” Mike “Hammer” SSierraierra LeoneLeone Photography by Joseph Hernandez

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 30 NCOM News Bytes motorcycles, riding two abreast keeps the overall length are motorcycles. The Jakarta Transportation Board has of the group shorter, and discourages other vehicles from estimated that more than three million motorbikes are on dangerously cutting into the group - an issue motorcy- the city’s roads every day, compared to 2.5 million cars. clists riding in groups often face. Out of the 4,206 road accidents reported last year, 3,826 involved motorcyclists. But the government believes OH DEER! According to transportation offi cials, nearly emissions tests may be the best way to curb motorcycle 200 people are killed nationwide each year in crashes growth, so the Jakarta administration has been called involving wildlife, mostly deer. The collisions cost drivers upon to enforce stricter emissions testing for motorcycles almost $1.5 billion each year in property damage, deaths to control the increasing number of motorbikes, up 15% and injuries. The Colorado Department of Transportation from the previous year. The State Ministry for the Environ- (CDOT) says they are trying to cut those numbers down. ment said motorbikes that fail to meet emissions stan- Flash lights and motion sensors are just a few of many dards could be banned from the city’s streets. 60% of the solutions transportation experts are considering, and motorcycles tested in spot checks did not meet emissions CDOT has put up a number of wildlife escape ramps on standards set in 1993, so the ministry predicts that even US 550 that allow wildlife to cross the road without getting more would fail the newer, tougher emission standard stuck in traffi c. CDOT says animals are getting more used issued in 2006. to the ramps, even teaching their young how to use them. On US 40, CDOT also installed a series of unusual look- JESSE JAMES FINED BY CARB California air regula- ing refl ectors to create fl ashes of light at 54 angles, hori- tors have issued $271,250 in total fi nes against Jesse zontally and vertically, when a vehicle’s light hits them. James of West Coast Choppers, the co-producer and According to CDOT, the refl ected light bounces back and host of “Monster Garage” and “Motorcycle Mania,” saying forth across the road, deterring deer and other wildlife that 50 of his custom-built choppers ran afoul of Cali- from crossing. Drivers cannot see the light because of fornia‘s clean-air rules. California Air Resources Board the way it’s refl ected. CDOT also hopes to install a mo- offi cials said their inspectors found that the monster bikes tion detector system on US 160, that when triggered by sold between 1998 and 2005 did not have state certifi ed a deer or other animal will cause a large light to go on to emissions equipment on their exhaust and fuel systems, let an oncoming driver see there’s an animal on or near resulting in these bikes spewing hydrocarbons at up to the road. The light may also startle the animal and keep it 10 times the state limits. The market for custom-built off of the road. Meanwhile, an eight state research group motorcycles has taken off in recent years, and prominent met in Minnesota to brainstorm ideas for keeping wildlife bike builders have achieved celebrity status, but progres- off the road, and their leading proposal involves placing sively stricter new emissions regulations from the EPA are canisters of real or synthetic wolf and coyote urine near already impacting the motorcycle industry. the roadways, hoping the scent of predators will cause the animals to fl ee. WEIRD NEWS: DRUNKEN DOUGHNUTS A Pontiac, MI motorcyclist gets sued, then sent to prison, for his actions INDONESIA INSTITUTES NEW ANTI-MOTORCYCLE that took place outside a bar earlier this year as he was LAWS New motorcycle lanes went into effect in Jakarta “doing doughnuts” in the parking lot when he struck and in January. Motorcyclists are now supposed to use the injured a woman who was standing outside the saloon. “slow” left lanes on city streets and police began getting Now he’ll be riding a prison van to Stateville Correctional tough on riders by issuing more than a thousand traffi c Center , where he was sentenced to one year after plead- tickets the fi rst day to bikers not riding in the designated ing guilty to failure to report an accident with injury. He lanes. Trials are held on the spot and take about 5 min- was also ordered to pay restitution, and faces a lawsuit utes. The head of traffi c at the Jakarta Police, Sr. Comr. from the injured woman who is seeking $50,000 each Djoko Susilo, said he hoped the rule would increase from the rider, the owner of the motorcycle and the saloon order in the streets and reduce the number of traffi c owner. accidents. The left-lane rule is not the only new require- ment for motorcyclists. They are also being told to keep QUOTABLE QUOTE: “We, too, born to freedom, and be- their headlights on during the day, so that other vehicles lieving in freedom, are willing to fi ght to maintain freedom. can see them more easily. The city is also considering We, and all others who believe as deeply as we do, would banning them from entering main thoroughfares during rather die on our feet than live on our knees.” peak hours, recommending that motorcyclists park their Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1882 - 1945), 32nd President bikes and make use of the city’s busway instead. Of 7.23 of the United States million vehicles in Jakarta , 64.1 percent, or 4.64 million, THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 31 AMD World Championship Bike Build-Of

by Houndog and engineering ever brought together in one place. Judg- The AMD (American Motorcycle Dealer) hosted its 3rd ing for the awards was done by the competitors them- annual international Offi cial Championship of Custom Bike selves, 66 of the 77 competitors voted. Eleven additional Building, now regarded by many builders and industry VIP judges selected from the custom press and vendor insiders as the world’s most prestigious open bike build- community rounded out the expertise and perspectives ing competition on the planet. It was held at the Thunder that scrutinized the entries. This month we will start with Road facility during Sturgis Bike Week last August. The the winner of the Freestyle Class competition. 2006 competition was hailed as the best yet. Chicara Nagata of Chicara Motorcycles in Saga, Ja- Four classes of competition were judged, Freestyle, pan, took top honors in the Freestyle Class with Chicara Metric, Modifi ed Harley-Davidson, and Production Manu- Art, a hand crafted steel, aluminum and chrome tribute to facturer Class. There were a total of 77 competitors from the 1937 model U Harley-Davidson. Chicara Art combines the United States and ten other countries. They fi elded the popularity of retro-styling with the World Championship a stunning line-up of 100 bikes which all who witnessed competitor community’s desire to honor originality, agreed was the highest standard of custom bike design precision and high levels of one-off engineering. Freestyle Class Results Builder Bike Name Country 1. Chicara Motorcycles Chicara Art Japan 2. Thunder Bike Spectacula Germany 3. SE Service Esox Lucius Sweden 4. Covington’s Cycle City Lucifer II USA 5. Steele Customs Fascinator USA 6. Chemical Chopper Oomega Finland 7. Wayne Kemp Customs Havoc USA 8. Red Baron Choppers Revenge Belgium 9. Roland Sands Design KRV5 Tracker USA 10. Jim Nasi Sangre Azul USA

TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 3232 TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 3333 Have you ever come across a cool shop, bar, restaurant or interesting place while riding, that you’d like more people to know about? Well, each month we feature places such as these that have been found by our readers so that others can go check out these gems of the road for themselves. If you’d like to turn us on to someplace neat that you’ve found… email us at [email protected] & we’ll be there!

Next time you are in the Historical Capital of Richmond, Virginia be sure to stop by and visit Jason and DeAna $10.00 to enjoy a full afternoon & evening of music, good and the “riding” family at Absolut Cycle Worx! times & fantastic company! Located at 5016 Old Midlothian Tnpk, Richmond, VA., If you miss them at the Party, you can meet them at the a small shop with big time service…. Jason Kincaid Virginia Beach Bike Classic, April 20th-22nd, The Horse , owner, was born into the military family of Joe and Smoke Out , June 22nd-24th, Rockahock Bike Classic, Donna Kincaid and has seen the world. But motorcycles June 2nd-4th, Myrtle Beach, Oct 4th-7th and Hogs on the are his passion! He is a graduate of MMI (Orlando, FL) High Seas Cruise, Nov. 4th-11th. & is a Factory Certifi ed Technician on late model Harley- Davidsons,V-Rods, Buell, Screamin’Eagles and Dyno-jet ~ Beth ~ operations. Jason has many years of experience work- ing on motorcycles, ( you may have met him at Richmond Harley-Davidson) but is not limited to just HD’s. He does service and repair to Customs, Metric and Sport Bikes, old and new. He carries new and used parts for sale & offers bike restoration and does consignments also. On the occasion you just can’t fi nd that part you need, call Jason. He’ll fi nd it for you! In the offi ce of Absolut, you’ll fi nd a bright ray of sunshine by the name of DeAna. She’ll take care of everything that needs to be lined up & processed on whatever services you’ll need for your bike. She can also help you pick out something cool from their selection of riding apparel & accessories. Absolut Cycle Worx’ hours of operation are Mon-Thur 10am-6pm, Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm. You can reach them at (804) 497-7000, by email @ Absolutcy [email protected] , or just ride on in and visit! Join them on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th. , 2:00pm -8pm, for their Kicking Off The 2007 Riding Season Party. Ride in and be sure you’re wearing “the green”. Park- ing is limited, but there will always be room for bikes! They’ll have plenty of food & “beverage”. Bands include, Vivid Darkness, Rhythm Pigs, Black Cash, and Cut The Architects Hand. The RHYTHM PIGS are bringing Jager’Miester as their sponsor along with all kinds of give aways! There will be a BIKE SHOW, BURN OUT PIT, WET T-SHIRT, TATTOO AND BEST MAN’S CHEST CONTEST. Prizes will be awarded! Cover charge is only

TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 3434 TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 3535 TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 3636 Mid-Atlantic Motorcycle like you’re an old Show – Timonium, MD friend, and after talk- Feb 9th – 11th, 2007 ing to Ron, you leave having made a new By Garth Hines friend. He tours many shows with his wife Once again the folks Ruth and son-in-law at American Recre- Brad Collier who is ational Promotions also his assistant. have provided riders with an extravaganza Bike entries ranged from the numerous custom shops of custom V twin and to many private builders such as the 1st Place in non-domestic bikes Stock class won by and accessories, an Shenandoah Valley array of the country’s resident Larry Crab- top custom builders, tree with his 2003 and a full gambit of new bike dealers with everything Electra Glide Classic the motorcycle industry has new for 2007 for specta- from Shenandoah tors to sample and H-D, Staunton, Vir- compare. The 5th ginia. Jim & Linda annual show at Ti- Habercam, Prince monium Fairgrounds in Maryland for the Frederick, MD., took 3 days of February 1st (Linda) and 2nd 9 -11th was host to (Jim), in Radical Sportster and Bill Campbell’s Rolling 500 vendors, more than 250 custom and Judging for the antique bikes, and Timonium Mid-Atlan- 42,000 attendees tic event was by the some riding their bikes in the near freezing tempera- International Master tures to get the preferred parking at the entrance. Bike Builders Asso- The event is designed to be a show covering every ciation (IMBBA), an aspect and segment independent associa- of the motorcycle industry, showcasing tion with their events the newest and most being on a point innovative bikes. system throughout The show provides the year to attract the best of the best at their judged a great family at- events. The Mid-Atlantic show next year increases in mosphere from the points from 12 to 16 Shiners making bal- putting it in the same loon animals for the level with Daytona kids to autographs and many shows in from the legendary California , Florida , Gary Nixon, Doug and Canada . Having Keim and the crowd favorite extraordinaire, Ron Finch. Ron was strategically located at one of the attended this event main aisle crossings displaying his bikes of creative for several years craftsmanship and art now, each year it gets projects from fl ow- bigger and better, so ers and butterfl ies to make plans for next year’s event. dinosaurs with their P.S…park at the Park & Ride lot on Deerco Rd. and babies all available save 45 minutes sit- for purchase as a ting in traffi c. memorable keepsake. Ron has got to be the Check out most personable bike www.CycleShow.net builder/artist that I’ve for upcoming events ever met. When you from American Rec- walk up to view his reational Promotions. wares, you’re greeted

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 37 TThehe JJoker’soker’s WWildild

Recently overlooked at the CMA ceremonies, these songs A crusty old lady dies and goes to heaven. She’s chatting it up with were appreciated to anyone who’s been there…… St. Peter at the Pearly Gates when all of a sudden she hears the most 12. I Hate Every Bone in Her Body But Mine. awful, blood curdling screams. 11. It’s Hard to Kiss the Lips At Night That Chewed Your Ass All Day. “Don’t worry about that,” says St. Peter, “It’s only someone having the 10. If the Phone Don’t Ring, You’ll Know It’s Me. holes put into her shoulder blades for wings.” The old lady looks a little 9. I Liked You Better Before I Got to Know You. uncomfortable but carries on with the conversation. Ten minutes later, 8. I Still Miss You Baby, But My Aim’s Gettin’ Better. there are more blood curdling screams. “Oh my God,” says the old lady, “now what is happening?” “Not to worry,” says St. Peter, “She’s 7. I Wouldn’t Take Her to a Dog Fight ‘Cause I’m Afraid She’d Win. just having her head drilled to fi t the halo.” “I can’t do this,” says the old 6. I’ll Marry You Tomorrow, But Let’s Honeymoon Tonight. lady, “I’m going to hell.” You can’t go there,” says St. Peter. “You’ll be 5. I’m So Miserable Without You, It’s Like You’re Still Here. raped and taken advantage of.” “Maybe so, says the old lady, but I’ve 4. If I Had Shot You When I First Wanted To, I’d Be Out Of Prison By Now. already got the holes for that” 3. My Wife Ran Off With My Best Friend and I Sure Do Miss Him. 2. She Got the Ring and I Got the Finger. A guy falls asleep on the beach for several hours and gets a horrible *** And the number 1 Country Song is: sunburn. He goes to the hospital and is promptly admitted after being 1. I Ain’t Never Gone to Bed With Ugly Women But I’ve Sure Woke Up diagnosed with second degree burns. With his skin already starting to With a Few. blister and seeing the severe pain he is in, the doctor prescribes an IV with saline, electrolytes, a sedative, and a Viagra pill every four hours. As a young minister, I was asked by a funeral director to hold a The nurse, who is rather astounded, asks, “What good will Viagra do graveside service for a homeless man, with no family or friends, who him, Doctor? The Doctor calmly replies, “It’ll keep the sheets off his had died while traveling through the area. The funeral was to be held legs.” at a cemetery way back in the country, and this man would be the fi rst One winter morning a husband and wife in northern Minnesota were to be laid to rest there. As I was not familiar with the backwoods area, I listening to the radio during breakfast. They heard the announcer say, became lost; and being a typical man did not stop for directions. I fi nally “We are going to have 8 to 10 inches of snow today. You must park arrived an hour late. I saw the backhoe and the crew, who was eating your car on the even-numbered side of the street, so the snowplows lunch, but the hearse was nowhere in sight. I apologized to the workers can get through.” So the good wife went out and moved her car. A for my tardiness, and stepped to the side of the open grave, where I saw week later while they are eating breakfast again, the radio announcer the vault lid already in place. I assured the workers I would not hold them said, “We are expecting 10 to 12 inches of snow today. You must park long, but this was the proper thing to do. The workers gathered around, your car on the odd-numbered side of the street, so the snowplows can still eating their lunch! I poured out my heart and soul. As I preached the get through.” The good wife went out and moved her car again. The workers began to say “Amen,” “Praise the Lord,” and “Glory,” I preached, next week they are again having breakfast, when the radio announcer and I preached, like I’d never preached before: from Genesis all the way says, “We are expecting 12 to 14 inches of snow today. You must to Revelations. I closed the lengthy service with a prayer and walked to park...” Then the electric power went out. The good wife was very my car. I felt I had done my duty for the homeless man and that the crew upset, and with a worried look on her face she said, “Honey, I don’t would leave with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication, in spite of know what to do. Which side of the street do I need to park on so the snowplows can get through?” With the love and understanding in his my tardiness. As I was opening the door and taking off my coat, I over- voice that only men who are married to blondes exhibit, the husband heard one of the workers saying to another, “I ain’t never seen anything gently replied, “Why don’t you just leave it in the garage this time?” like this before, and I’ve been putting in septic tanks for twenty years.” Mildred, the church gossip, and self-appointed monitor of the Panhead was at the mall the other day eating at the food court. He church’s morals, kept sticking her nose in to other people’s business. noticed a teenager sitting next to him. The teenager had spiked hair in Several members did not approve of her extra curricular activities, but all different colors: green, red, yellow, orange, and blue. Panhead kept feared her enough to maintain their silence. She made a mistake, how- staring at him. The teenager would look over and fi nd Panhead staring ever, when she accused George, a new member, of being an alcoholic at him, every time. When the teenager had enough, he sarcastically after she saw his old pickup parked in front of the towns’ only bar one asked, “What’s the matter old man, never done anything wild in your life?” afternoon. She emphatically told George (and several others) that ev- Panhead did not bat an eye in his response, “Got really drunk once and eryone seeing it there would know what he was doing. George, a man had sex with a parrot. I was just wondering if you were the end result of of few words, stared at her for a moment and just turned and walked that painful encounter.” away. He didn’t explain, defend, or deny... he said nothing. Later that evening, George quietly parked his pickup in front of Mildred’s house... walked home... and left it there all night long. Why Do Men Snore When They Lie On Their Backs? Because their balls fall over their butt-holes and they vapor lock.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 38 TThehe JJoker’soker’s WWildild TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 3939 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 40 2nd Annual Northeast Motorcycle Expo February 17th & 18th, 2007 Fredericksburg, VA by Garth HInes It was another chilly weekend in central Va., so what better time to head over to Fredericksburg for the Kev-Marv Productions 2nd Annual Mid-Atlantic Motorcycle Expo.http://www.kevmarv.com The event featured a hall full of vendors to satisfy all your motorcycling and accessory shopping needs with a selection of leather apparel, pins, patches, and helmets. The Law Offi ces of Tom McGrath were on hand with Attorney Matt Danielson and VCOM Direc- tor, Jim Cannon, to assist folks with questions and issues about their rights to ride. John Guillemette was on hand again this year with his original oil on canvas art works. An array of dealers representing Honda,Yamaha,Suzuki, Harley Davidson represent- ed by Waugh Enterprises HD and the folks from East Coast HD, Coleman Power Sports with the latest Ducati’s. The ever new stylish Victory from Victory Southern Maryland was there with some of their custom bikes and products, and the New dealership of Burt Shand’s Victory of Fredericksburg which will be having their 1st open house this Spring. Sev- eral performances throughout both days by Stunt Tours amazing 16ft round MotoSphere with 2 riders passing within inches of each other and shows by Heidi and the beautiful girls of the Iron Angles from Cody Wy. In-between performances, folks were kept entertained with the Southern Rock sounds of Cross Cut Saw as the beautiful lovely ladies, Brandy and Marissa of Renegade Classics Outlet Store Wood- bridge, signed posters and did some modeling on show bikes (www.nova.rcosva.com). Several build- ers and custom shops were on linehand along with celebrities Hugh King the “Chopper King”, and Rus- sell Mitchell of Exile Cycle Ca. with several excellent examples of the builders world famous “minimalist” style builds. To represent the 1/4 mile racing interest, The Fastest Woman in the World on an American V-twin, Connie Cohen with husband/crew chief Marc, brought their 2 racing Iron Horses, the Pro Stock Su- zuki and Pro Stock American V-twin Buell. Connie had set the record at Rockingham, NC., at 188mph /7.16 sec. She has sponsorship from Vance Leathers and S100 fi nish care products but is an independent racer looking for key sponsorship to best utilize and build on there 12 years of racing experience and speed (www.ccriderracing.cc). Overall a nice week- end with the exception of Mark Martin’s 2nd place fi nish. To check out upcoming shows from Kev/Marv productions, visit them at www.kevmarv.com.

TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 4141 It’s important for you to know who your friends are Outer Banks Harley-Davidson East Coast Harley/Buell Patriot Harley-Davidson out there when you hit the road! 1223 U.S. Highway 17 South 17975 Main Street 9739 Lee Highway Welcome to our Biker Friendly Directory. The Elizabeth City, NC 27909 Dumfries, VA Fairfax, VA following is a list of establishments throughout (252) 338-8866 (703) 221-3757 (703) 352-5400 the Mid-Atlantic states that want you to know that www.outerbankshd.com ProStreet Cycles they’re here for YOU. Whether it’s a bike dealer, Full House Cycles 8075 Jefferson Davis Hwy service shop, restaurant, bar or any other type of Virginia 100 Full House Drive Richmond, VA 23237 business that welcomes our biking community Winchester, VA (804) 271-7766 through their doors, you can count on our family Al’s Towing & Nicky’s Custom 540-667-0088 www.prostreetcycles.net of friends to always welcome you in. ALL of our 5570 Raby Rd regular advertisers can also be found, in bold, Norfolk, VA 23541 Gator Hole Powersports Revolutionary Harley-Davidson throughout this listing – they are the best of the (407) 455-6667 342 Mecklenburg Drive 6401 Richmond Rd best at what they do, making a special showing to www.alstowing.com Chase City, VA 23924 Lightfoot, VA 23090 give you the fi nest in everything that they have to (434) 372-1771 (757) 565-5122 offer. Most of them ride too, so they know exactly American Legend Custom Motorcycles what you want & need. The staff here at Thunder 10611 Wards Rd Grove’s Winchester Richmond Harley-Davidson Roads is greatly appreciative of their continuous Rustburg, VA 24588 support each month, for they are the sole fi nancial Harley-Davidson/Buell, Inc. 10441 Washington Highway (434) 821-5303 140 Independence Drive (Route 50 East) Glen Allen, VA supporters of this magazine – WE WOULD NOT www.americanlegendcustomcycles.com EXIST WITHOUT THEM! So please give them the Winchester, VA 22602 (804) 550-9280 support that they truly deserve for being with us Bayside Harley-Davidson (540) 662-4468 & drop by their shops for a visit. Let them know 3403 High Street Riders, Inc that you saw them here in Thunder Roads. If you Portsmouth, VA Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson/Buell 928 Cycle Lane would like to join our Thunder Roads family of Biker (757) 397-5550 6450 George Washington Memorial South Hill, VA Friendly Places, please give us a call (757) 831-2264 www.baysidehd.com Highway 877-913-1379 or email [email protected]. We are the Yorktown, VA www.ridersinc.net # 1 Free Biker Publication in the Mid-Atlantic giving Black Wolf Harley-Davidson (757) 872-7223 you our best. “Where There’s Bikes….There’s Going 18100 Black Wolf Lane Roanoke Valley Harley-Davidson/Buell To Be Thunder….THUNDER ROADS” Abington, VA 24211 Harley-Davidson of Lynchburg 1925 Peters Creek Road (276) 628-5822 20452 Timberlake Road Roanoke, VA 24017 Lynchburg, VA (540) 562-5424 Burcham Cycles, Inc. 434-237-2381 All American Harley-Davidson 333 B Industrial Drive Rob’s Used Harley Parts 8126 Leonardtown Rd. Petersburg, VA 23803 Harley-Davidson of Wytheville Herndon, VA Hughesville, MD 20637 (804) 526-2300 430 Lithia Road (703) 476-6607 (888) 833-2REV www.burchamscycles.com Wytheville, VA www.robsusedharleyparts.com www.allamericanh-d.com 276-228-9000 Busted Knuckles Custom Cycles Rocker Originals Harley Davidson of Washington 128-4 Windy Hill Lane Iron Core 441 Grafton Drive 9407 Livingston Rd. Winchester, VA 977 Chimney Hill Shopping Center Yorktown, VA 23692 Ft. Washington, MD 540-545-8733 Virginia Beach, VA (757) 898-RIDE (888) HDFEVER (757) 631-8393 www.rockeroriginals.com www.hdwash.com Catlin Kustom Cycles 1909 Boulevard Iron Sports Custom Cycles Rocket Rogers Old 97 Choppers Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City Colonial Heights, VA 3520 Williamson Road 2830 Riverside Drive 10716 Ocean Gateway 804526-2208 Roanoke, VA Danville, VA 24540 Berlin, MD www.ckccustoms.com (540) 366-0042 434-792-3132 (410) 629-1599 www.rocketrogersmotorcycles.com Chix Custom Cycles Jim McClure’s Harley-Davidson/Buell Shop of 3745 Shore Drive Master Performance Cycles Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell Williamsport Virginia Beach, VA 3707 Rochambeau Dr. 213 Rolling Thunder Lane 10210 Governor Lane Blvd - (757) 363-2453 Williamsburg Va. 23188 Staunton, VA Suite 2004 www.chixcustomcycles.com Williamsport, MD 21795 757 566-0544 Fax 566-8218 (540) 213-7433 [email protected] www.shenhd.com (301) 223-1800 or (301) 416-3900 Classic Twins 19363 Brandy Road Harley-Davidson of Maryland Inc Brandy Station, VA King’s Restoration Southside Harley-Davidson/Buell, Inc. 7010 Troy Hill Drive (540) 829-0313 36 Cloverdale Pl. 385 North Witchduck Rd Elkridge, MD 21075 Cloverdale, VA Virginia Beach, VA (410) 796-1044 Coleman Power Sports (540) 966-3911 (757) 499-8964 www.harleydavidsonofmaryland.com 435 S. Washington St. Falls Church, VA Mark Long Cycles South Richmond Harley-Davidson Shop Haus of Trikes (800) 888-3619 www.marklongcycles.com 10011 Hull Street 12636 Sunset Ave. Unit F5 www.wherethepoweris.com 68 Cool Springs Rd Richmond, VA Ocean City, MD Fredericksburg, VA (804) 745-3445 (410) 213-2421 Coleman Power Sports (540) 899-6700 www.hausoftrikes.com 14105 Telegraph Rd. & Thunder Road Harley-Davidson Woodbridge, VA 22890 Quicksilver Dr 4960 Riverside Drive North Carolina (703) 497-1500 Dulles, VA Danville, VA 24541-5630 www.wherethepoweris.com (703) 661-8600 (434) 822-BIKE (2453) Curly’s Harley-Davidson/Buell www.davishd.com 3825 Reidsville Road Colonial Harley-Davidson/Buell Nicky’s Custom Auto & Cycle Winston-Salem, NC 1701 Temple Parkway 5570 Raby Rd. Tidewater Motorcycles Inc. 336-722-3106 Prince George, VA Norfolk, VA 23502 4324 Godwin Blvd (804) 861-4700 (757) 461-7097, (757) 455-6667 Suffolk, VA Davis Harley-Davidson Nicky’s cell: (757) 407-2696 (757) 255-4200 2215 Hanford Rd. Cycle Creations www.alstowing.com Burlington, NC 27215 4230 Lankford Hwy Tom’s Custom Cycles (336) 227-1261 New Church, VA 23415 Outkasst Cycles 7203A George Washington Memorial Hwy www.davishd.com (757) 854-4144 3907 Bellson Park Dr Rt17 Midlothian, VA 23112 Yorktown, VA Kitty Hawk Harley-Davidson Departure Bike Works (804) 744-7848 (757) 898-7702 8739 Highway 158 5216 Hull St “SCREW STOCK” Harbinger, NC 27941 Richmond, VA Waugh Enterprises (252) 491-2091 (804) 231-0244 Outlanders 385 Waugh Boulevard www.kittyhawkhd.com www.departure.com 4768 US Highway 211 West Orange, VA Luray, VA 22835 (540) 672-5550 Nag’s Head Harley-Davidson Devil Dawg Custom Cycles (540) 743-2040 4104 S. Dare Trail 14512 Lee Road Units C, D & E Milepost 13 (Highway 159 Bypass) www.outlanders.ws Whitt’s Harley-Davidson/Buell Sales, Inc. Chantilly, VA 20151 email: [email protected] 9321 Center Street Nags Head, NC 27959 (703) 378-4115 or (888) 550-9810 (252) 255-5922 www.devildawgcustomcycles.com Manassas, VA www.nagsheadhd.com (703) 369-7077 www.whittshd.com

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 42 West Virginia Trends HOOTERS of Fredericksburg 6405 Williamson Road 10400 Spotsylvania Ave Cole Harley-Davidson Roanoke, VA Fredericksburg, VA CHARTER BOAT “AMETHYST” (540) 898-8044 1804 Bland St. (540) 362-9790 Indian River Inlet, Rehoboth Beach, DE Bluefi eld, WV 24701 Tuna * Dolphin * Shark * King Mackerel (304) 324-8116 West Virginia HOOTERS of Richmond 7912 West Broad Street Sea Bass * Croaker * Flounder Mike’s Harley-Davidson C & A Bike Accessories Richmond, VA Since 1984 1-800-999-8119 Highway 119 Preece Bottom Rd 1615 Winchester Ave. Unit B (804) 270-9464 www.atbeach.com/amethyst Delbartown, WV 25670 Martinsburg, WV 25401 Email: [email protected] (304) 426-4241 (304) 263-8229 Hoss’s Deli www.cabikeaccessories.com 806 Old Oyster Point Newport News, VA (757) 596-9104

Marilyn’s Hot Rod Café Two Feathers Tattoos Virginia 4207 Wards Rd “Art With A Pulse” Clark Insurance Agency Lynchburg, VA (757) 575-5977 Dye Art Custom Airbrush & Graphics 4709 Mason Rest Ct. (434) 832-1555 200 Commerce Circle, Suite L Richmond, VA City Limits Tattoo & Piercing, Ltd. Yorktown, VA 23693 (804) 271-1961 Knuckleheads Roadhouse 119D Boulevard (757) 596-1867 401 North Witchduck Road Colonial Heights, VA 23834 www.dyeart.com Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (804) 504-0600 (757) 644-6200 www.citylimitstattoo.com Hollywood Signs (vehicle graphics, decals) www.knuckleheadsvb.com 23202 Airport St. Petersburg, VA 23833 North Carolina Mary Jayne’s Lazy Horse Bar & Grill (804) 733-8956 565 Cedar Road Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge, Chesapeake, Va 23322 Sports Center & Marina (757) 549-0367 169 Walnut Island Blvd Southern Attitude Band Grandy, NC 27939 Randzz Restaurant & Pub Country * Southern Rock * Classic Rock (252) 453-4153 6001 Holland Rd. For Bookings Call Ben Duncan (757) Suffolk, VA 23437 Epstein, Sandler & Flora P.C. www.outerbanksbikerally.com 713-2088 413 W. York Street (757) 657-9331 Norfolk, VA 23610 Dirty Dick’s Crab House EVERY NIGHT IS BIKE NIGHT! 1-800-9-THE-LAW On the Bypass, Hwy 158 The Rhythm Pigs Kill Devil Hills, NC Talons Sports and Spirits Contact: Timmy Fodrey The Law Offi ce of Tom McGrath (252) 449-CRAB 11800 Hull St. Road (757) 286-6001 1-800-321-8968 Midlothian, VA 23112 www.rhythmpigs.com www.motorcyclevirginia.com Krazy’s Saloon (804) 744-9541 Rt 1 South Suits to Sleeveless – EVERYONE’s 10 Foot 6 Rockingham, NC 28379 Welcome Here! Contact: Sonny Bowen (757) 327-1837 (757) 236-5345 or (804) 642-2707 (910) 610-3839 Email: [email protected] Mako Mike’s Restaurant Virginia MP 7 – US 158 Bypass Kill Devil Hills, NC Virginia Diva Customs 252-480-1919 501 17th St. Bayside Harley-Davidson Virginia Beach, VA 23451 Virginia 2211 Frederick Blvd I-264 Exit 5 Al’s Towing of Virginia – 24 Hour (757) 428-DIVA Portsmouth, VA 23704 Service 757 397-5550 www.divacustoms.com Boneshakers Saloon 5570 Raby Rd. 1297 General Booth Blvd www.baysidehd.com Norfolk, VA 23502 Fast Lane Biker Gear & Accessories Virginia Beach, VA 23451 166 S. Rosemont Rd. Ste. G (757) 961-8382 Eagle Rider Motorcycle Rental (757) 461-7097, (757) 455-6667 Virginia Beach, VA 23452 www.boneshakerssaloon.com 14159 Mariah Court Al’s cell (757) 407-2735 (757) 340-4446 Chantilly, VA www.alstowing.com Club Car Café 703-802-9860 Harley-Haven 18497 Dunne Ave 1-866-268-6782 1920Atlantic Ave Parksley, VA 23421 www.eagleriderdc.com Virginia Beach, VA (757) 665-7822 (757) 425-2458 Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City The Cactus Steakhouse & Saloon 10716 Ocean Gateway Bob Chapman – The Biker’s Realtor Mr. D’s Leather & Novelties 6401 George Washington Berlin, MD 9902A Warwick Blvd Memorial Hwy Rt 17 (410) 629-1599 926-A J. Clyde Morris Blvd Newport News, VA Yorktown, VA Newport News, VA 23601 (757) 599-4070 (757) 898-8500 Kitty Hawk Harley-Davidson (757) 897-9790 8739 Caratoke Highway [email protected] Reeps Riders Damon & Company Sports Bar & Grill Harbinger, NC 27941 www.movingwithbob.com 3601B E. Ocean View Ave 7104 George Washington Memorial Hwy 252 491-2091 Norfolk, VA 23518 Rt. 17 North www.kittyhawkhd.com (757) 362-3971 Gloucester, VA www.reepsriders.com (804) 693-7218 www.damonsbar.com Renegade Classics 14575 Jefferson Davis Hwy Dirty Dick’s Crab House Segeleon Racing LLC Woodbridge, VA 22191 Rudee Inlet North Carolina (757) 651-7451 703-499-9533 Virginia Beach, VA Email: [email protected] www.nova.rcosva.com (757) 491-DICK Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge, Sports Center & Marina Trailer World Route 17 – The Rider’s Highway HOOTERs of Chesterfi eld 169 Walnut Island Blvd 1982 George Washington Memorial Grandy, NC 27939 3403 High Street (Hwy 17) 1211 Huguenot Rd Highway Midlothian, VA (252) 453-4153 Portsmouth, VA 23707 Gloucester Point, VA 23062 (757) 967-8268 (804) 378-9464 www.outerbanksbikerally.com [email protected] www.vatrailerworld.com HOOTERs of Chester Comfort Inn Oceanfront South The Shade Tree 2401 West Hundred Road 8031 Old Oregon Inlet Road www.myshadetree.net Chester, VA Nags Head, NC 757-435-2457 (804) 425-9464 (800) 334-3302 VELOCITY MOTORCYCLES

Velocity Motorcycles in Richmond, VA., held their GRAND RE-OPENING on Sat. February 10. There was a lot of exciting things happening at their shop that day including being in the spotlight with the “on location” fi lm crew from Walneck’s Clas- sic Cycle Trader. It seems that Velocity is doing a restoration for Walneck. When I fi nd out exactly what bike they are doing (rumored to be a classic BMW with a Sidecar) and the unveiling date, I will bring you the whole story. I do know that when the bike is fi nally fi nished, it will be raffl ed off to raise money for Juvenile Diabetes. There was also music from the bands - El Cheapo Deluxe, The Imitators and Barbi n’ Bondage. What a cool place to check out - Velocity Motorcycles, 1202 North Boulevard, Richmond, Virginia.

W O R K I N P R O G R E S S Here are a couple of pictures from Rocker Originals in Yorktown. This is Mike “Hammer”s Old School Chopper about 35% complete. www.rockeroriginals.com

TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 4444 THUNDER FOR THE PARK UPDATE: THE KIDS ARE ROLLING AGAIN!

We were thrilled to hear about the Skate Park being reopened recently in Virginia Beach. Thunder Roads along with Dirty Dicks Crab House had sponsored a fundraiser back in December to raise money to help with the rebuilding process of the ramps. Thanks again to all of the riders, passengers, musicians, sponsors & just everyone who partici- pated in that event – our efforts did make a difference!

Taken from a Press release Feb 6, 2007: Skate Park at Mount Trashmore Park Reopened Repairs to the above ground bowl and other components complete

(Virginia Beach, VA) Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation is pleased to announce that the above-ground bowl has been rebuilt, and the repairs to other damaged components at the Mount Trashmore Skate Park have been completed. The original bowl was destroyed and other components were damaged in the August 16, 2006 fi re. The Skate Park is once again open and fully operational.

TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 4545 near a rest stop. Several days in the West Virginia mountains during Travel Trailer autumn is always a great adventure that I try and repeat every year. Looking back on the entire trip it was clear that the truck camper and By Matthew Allan bike trailer gave us greater fl exibility in coping with the weather espe- cially as fall weather turned cold early on. With cold weather, travel February 2007 time on the bike was reduced but the truck rig allowed us to continue on. It was an evolution of sorts… small steps I don’t intend to give up motorcycle camping and bought a new rack along the way to better motorcycle trips. for the bike this year to better accommodate our gear. The truck The decision to buy a trailer to move my bike during the cold season camper and trailer give us the freedom to get where we want to go and and across frequently traveled spaces also fi nally led to the purchase ride most of the year. This is a benefi t to a biker who travels frequently of a truck camper. and with great distance. The last straw was Sturgis in 2006 with searing heat for a week and To me the road is the journey. As a moto-journalist, the destination is daily hailstorms in the afternoon. We were camping in a tent. It was not the best story but the road adventures getting there. There is no impossible to stay at our campsite during the afternoon because it was substitute for the time spent on your bike going from one place to an- too hot in the tent even when it rained! But it was good business for other. The decision to travel trailer must be something that enhances every bar and restaurant we camped out at instead. I didn’t know how your biker experience not diminish it. You decide what serves you far we wanted to go easing into conventional pleasures but saw the best. dudes in the big RV cooking steaks and the couple next to us dozing under their trailer canopy in the afternoons. Something had to change. Safe travels. Life is best just cruisin’. We enjoy camping. Don’t like motels and prefer our own cooking. We have backpacked for over 25 years and ridden the bike across the U.S. many times rarely stopping more than necessary and always camping. We like to be on the road. After Sturgis, we rode to the Four Corners Rally on Labor Day weekend crossing over the continental di- vide in a hailstorm and rode on to tent camp at Mesa Verde. It rained a lot but there were nice days too. In October, we were looking at another cross country trip to Smoky Mountain Bike Week at Fontana Lake, North Carolina. Our return to Colorado would be some time in December so riding weather would be minimal. We began looking for a truck camper and settled on an Arctic Fox buying from the Happy Camper people in Burleson, TX. They are good folks and a lot of fun too. Immediately the benefi ts of a truck camper and trailer were apparent. Lan was cooking her fabulous food every night. We stopped to camp along DeGray Lake in Arkansas and rode the bike to Hot Springs whenever we pleased. The traffi c on I-40 into Tennessee was fast and furious but people were watching out for us this time. We traveled into the night crossing over the Smokies with fog arriving at Fontana Lake at 3:00 a.m. Something you are not likely to do very often on a bike. We rode again the Tail of the Dragon, Hellbender and Cherohala Skyway. Enjoyed the autumn colors in the mountains as the weather turned cool. As our North Carolina autumn ended, we packed up the trailer and left on a rainy morning for West Virginia. The roads were slick and one biker had already slid into the trees on Hellbender. When we got to West Virginia, it was snowing in the mountains. Our plan was to ride the twisties from Webster Springs to Buckhannon and camp at Sutton Lake. We rode the bike one very cold day before the day time temperatures dropped below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. After two more days at Sutton Lake waiting for the snow to stop so we could ride again, we turned off the heat in the truck camper and headed for the family abode. But the truck camper had kept us warm and I was Matthew Allan is a moto- busy writing motorcycle stuff or walking along the lake. There was journalist living in Colo- heavy snow as we crossed over the eastern continental divide. rado and West Virginia. He Two weeks later in November, the weather warmed up enough for me keeps a ride in both places to to hit the road again on the bike. I packed a sleeping bag and tooth- placate the road demons that brush and headed back to the twisties near Buckhannon. After doing haunt him. He is the author of The State Roads 15 and 20 which are indeed very twisty, I veered onto Zen Guide to Motorcycle Riding. the interstate to ride back and spent the night camping in the woods TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 4646 Plucking The Yew From: http://gotthefi nger.com/?page_id=2 Finger History The History of the The Middle Finger Salute: More fun than highschool history class. Before the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, the French, anticipating victory over the Eng- Manure: In the 16th and 17th centuries, every- lish, proposed to cut off the middle fi nger thing had to be transported by ship and it was of all captured English soldiers. Without the also before commercial fertilizer’s invention, middle fi nger it would be impossible to draw so large shipments of manure were common. the renowned English longbow and therefore It was shipped dry, because in dry form it they would be incapable of fi ghting in the weighed a lot less than when wet, but once future. water (at sea) hit it, it not only became heavi- This famous English longbow was made of er, but the process of fermentation began the native English Yew tree, and the act of again, of which a by product is methane gas. drawing the longbow was known as “pluck- As the stuff was stored below decks in bun- ing the yew” (or “pluck yew”). dles you can see what could (and did) happen. Much to the bewilderment of the French, Methane began to build up below decks and the English won a major upset and began the fi rst time someone came belowat night mocking the French by waving their middle with a lantern, BOOOOM! fi ngers at the defeated French, saying, “See, we can still pluck yew!” Several ships were destroyed in this manner Since ‘pluck yew’ is rather diffi cult to say, before it was determined just what was hap- the diffi cult consonant cluster at the begin- pening. After that, the bundles of manure ning has gradually changed to a labiodentals were always stamped with the term “Ship fricative F’, and thus the words often used in High In Transit” on them, which meant for the conjunction with the one-fi nger-salute! sailors to stow it high enough off the lower It is also because of the pheasant feath- decks so that any water that came into the ers on the arrows used with the longbow that hold would not touch this volatile cargo and the symbolic gesture is known as “giving the start the production of methane. bird.” And yew thought you knew everything! Thus evolved the term “S.H.I.T “ , (Ship High In Found on gotthefi nger.com from our own Tim Transport) which has come down through the Wilmoth centuries and is in use to this very day.

TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 4747 HHDD MuseumMuseum WebcamWebcam FollowsFollows DailyDaily ContructionContruction

January 22, 2007 Milwaukee, WI - A new webcam will fol- low the progress as the Harley-Davidson museum is built. Construction on the mu- seum began last summer in Milwaukee, Wis., and is set to open in 2008. The H-D Museum webcam displays new images of the construction site several times an hour and features a zoom func- tion for close-up views. Images of the progress will be archived so viewers can observe step-by-step development. The Harley-Davidson Museum will be located on 20 acres at the corner of Sixth and Canal streets near downtown Milwaukee. The museum will encompass 130,000 square feet and will have exhibit space, restaurant, café, retail shop, meet- ing space, special events facilities and will house the company’s archives. An esti- mated 70 full-time jobs are expected to be fi lled and 350,000 visitors from around the world are expected to visit the museum annually. Reprinted with permission from Ehlert’s Powersports Business.

SSPRINGPRING MAKEOVERMAKEOVER

Thunder Roads would like to introduce you to a group of 3 very talented bike “re-builders” who live in the Virginia Beach area. Before you meet them, we thought that it would be kind of cool to 1st show you what they can do. I’ve seen their work personally & was very impressed. So, with my ’95 Harley being long overdue for a little makeover, I am entrusting them with my baby for a little while to give her a fresh look for 2007. I’ll keep you posted next month on their progress….. ~ Kelly ~

Eddie Trotta Gets Thunder Roads Shouldn’t You?

To get Thunder Roads Magazine In The Mail Send Check Or Money Order For $30.00 Made Out To: Mid-Atlantic Thunder Roads 1920 Centerville Turnpike, Suite 117-270 Virginia Beach, VA 23464

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TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 4848 TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 4949 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 50 POINTMAN PERSPECTIVE heads and allow a peaceful demonstration that would honor both sides of this debate. Beware the “Ides of March” or rather the 17th I try real hard not to get “political” with any of my ar- May the road rise up to meet you ticles. The same God that loves me, loves everyone May the wind always be at your back else, so I try to be very careful about anyone I speak May the rain fall gently on your fi elds about. As a pastor I have an obligation to be fair and Until we meet again may God hold honest about everything I do, especially when oth- you in the hollow of His hand ers are involved. However, I am also a veteran of the armed forces of the United States and I get so frosted Via Con Dios at times that I have to go to God and just cry out. Reverend Rock As hard as I try, it’s often diffi cult to understand why people do the things they do. I am also a Patriot Guard Rider and I was informed Contact Reverend Rock with your comments, sugges- that on March 17,2007, a group of anti-war protest- tions or snide remarks at [email protected] or ers are gathering at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial [email protected] and be sure to visit my website to march on the capitol. This is all fi ne and well. We at www.pointman.homestead.com live in a country that gives us the privilege to protest the things that we don’t believe in. Again, all fi ne and well, however the last time a demonstration was held in D.C. a good deal of vandalism occurred. Steps and buildings were spray painted and the place was literally trashed. Although the years have mellowed me somewhat and Jesus has softened my heart, I still struggle with the message these people send. They are going to protest the very thing that gives them the freedom to protest. I wonder what would happen if they went to Iran, Syria, North Korea and protested? You know what would happen and so do they, so they will do it here where it’s safe. Fortunately, not everyone shares their views about the war. They can complain, criticize and whine about the government all they want, but don’t mess with the soldiers, the veterans or those that have fallen. On March 17,2007, The Riders from “Rolling Thunder”, Rocky is an ordained minister and an outpost leader for the Patriot Guard Riders and a number of vets from Pointman International Ministries.He and his wife Donna every walk of life will be there also, including yours live in Chester,Virginia and together have fi ve children and twelve grandchildren.Rocky is the Business Man- truly. We will form a wall between the protesters and ager for South Richmond Harley-Davidson and rides a our memorials. We don’t know if these people will try 2002 Heritage Softail Classic.He and Donna belong to to damage any of the memorials or not, but we are not Cornerstone Assembly of God and is a member of The taking any chances. We are committed to non-vio- Christian Motrocyclists Association;Richmond Chapter lence. Our only objective is to protect the memorials. 173,The Virginia Christian Riders.He is also Chaplain As a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ I have to for the South Richmond HOG Group and a member of the Patriot Guard Riders.Affectionately ( I hope ) look at these people through the eyes of Christ. Jesus known as Reverend Rock,Rocky welcomes your com- died for them as well as He died for you and me, we’re ments and/or sugeestions and can be contacted at all the same level. I lift this event before the Lord and [email protected] ask Him go before us, to soften hearts, to cool angry THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 51 1947, the famous motorcycle race resumed and was now promoted by the legendary Bill France. Newspaper Perhaps it was the appeal of hard sand, warm winter days stories of the period and the excitement of that fi rst motorcycle race on the recount that the beach, that made Daytona Beach the home of Bike Week. city fathers asked Maybe it was the spirited activities surrounding the event townsfolk to open that have kept people coming back. Whatever the case, Bike their homes to the Week has been a tradition since January 24,1937 - the inau- visiting motorcy- gural running of the Daytona 200. The fi rst race took place clists because all hotel rooms and camping areas were fi lled to capacity. The 1947 Daytona 200 featured a record 176 rid- ers. In 1948, a new beach - road course was used because of developments along the beach. Organizers were forced to move the event further south, towards Ponce Inlet. The new circuit measured 4.1 miles. The last Daytona 200 to be held on the beach - road course took place in 1960. In 1961, the famous race was moved to the Daytona Interna- tional Speedway. Bike Week has always had a fl avor of its own. Some time after the war, the event began to take on a rugged edge. While the motorcycle races on the beach were organized, events surrounding the race were not. As time passed, locals became afraid of the visitors and law enforce- on a 3.2 mile beach and road course, located south of Day- ment offi cers and city offi cials were less than enthusiastic tona Beach. Ed Kretz of Monterey Park, CA was its fi rst about what some termed an “invasion”. Relations between winner, riding an American made Indian motorcycle and the Bikers and law enforcement offi cials continued to averaging 73.34 mph. Kretz also won the inaugural City of worsen. When things appeared to be at their worst (after Daytona Beach trophy. The 1937, race course ran approxi- the 1986 event), a special task force was organized by the mately one and a half miles north on the beach; through a city in cooperation with the local chamber of commerce to 1/4 mile turn where the sand was banked, and then onto the improve relations and change the magnitude and scope of paved, public roadway portion for the trip south. Coming the event. Today Bike Week has transformed into a 10-day back on the fi nal turn, another high sand bank awaited rid- festival that expands throughout Volusia County. There ers as they raced on the hard sands of the beach. Interest- are hundreds of events for motorcycle enthusiasts to enjoy. ingly enough, starting times for these events were dictated Bike Week now welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors by the local tide tables. The races continued from 1937 to annually and is enjoyed by locals and motorcycle enthusi- 1941. In the early years the Daytona 200 was also called the asts world wide. “Handlebar Derby” by local racing scribes.

In 1942, the Daytona 200 was dis- continued because of World War II. Its sanctioning body, the American Motorcycling Association (AMA) solemnly noted it was “in the inter- ests of national defense” that the event was canceled. With the war, came a general rationing of fuel, tires and key engine components. Even though the racing event was “offi cially” called off, people still showed up for an “unoffi cial” party called Bike Week. On February 24,

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 52 CClublub DDirectoryirectory

ABATE of Virginia welcomes all riders to join in the fi ght to protect our Castaways Riding Club - Tidewater, VA Rolling Thunder, Inc. Chapter 2 VA rights.“No matter what you ride, we want YOU! Info: Mike (703) 321-0714 Meets 3rd Weds of the month. Wherever your mind wonders…ride after it! Meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at The American Leg hotline 800-3-ABATE-4 www.castatwaysrc.com or email [email protected] Legion Post 25. 7609 Marshall Ave. Newport News , Va. (757) 245-4532. For more information please contact Walt Troy (757) 874-4751 or Jenelle ABATE of VA/Blue Ridge Central Virginia Chapter of the Victory Motorcycle Club Barrack (757) 871-1143 or visit our website at www.rollingthunderva2.org Meets at 7 pm on 2nd Thursdays at Pano’s Rest. in Harrisonburg. Bill Robinson, Chapter President Shenandoah Valley HOG Info: (434) 248-6211 Email: [email protected] Monthly meeting @ Verona, Va. Moose alternates 2nd Sunday next month 2nd Tuesday. hog hotline (540) 946-9992, www.shenandoahhog.com ABATE of VA/Battlefi eld Chapt. Cell: (804)339-3784 Home: (804) 737-7910 Meets 3rd Wed. @7:30 pm at Guisseppe’s Italian Rest. SONS OF THUNDER MOTORCYCLE MINISTRIES Contact Red (434) 535-0608 Central VA Trail Riders 1509 Chesapeake Ave, Chesapeake, VA 23324 www.sonofthundermm.com st rd Meets 7 pm on 1 & 3 Tues. [email protected] meet every fi rst Saturday of each month at ABATE Blackwater Chapter of VA At a Richmond Rest. Info: (804) 272-8038 thunder alley Call for directions 757-543-1857 or 757-619-4073. Also we Meets 2nd Tues at 7:30 pm, Jordans Rest. 1200 Armory Dr., Franklin, VA have JC’S Fellowship Church where bikers are welcome. Come as you are Christian Motorcyclist Association Northern Virginia Chapter 348 – meeting place: Thunder Alley. Times: Sunday 9 am & 6 pm; Wed. 7 pm; ABATE of Virginia/Ironhorse Cavalry - Lynchburg & surrounding counties. www.nvcrcma.com NVCR meets 3rd Sat each month @ Old Country Buffet Thurs.(Recovery Program) 7 pm. All our runs go to JC’S Recovery House – Coordinator Ricky “Rebel” Banks (434) 239-4170. Meetings are held on the in Manassas @ 9:00 am, President – Rick Saunders, [email protected] All people that we help through this house are by application and acceptance st 1 Tuesday of each month at Marilyn’s Hot Rod Café at 7pm based on they’re desire for help. CMA/Blue Ridge Christian Riders (Roanoke area) ABATE of VA/Olde Dominion Chapter rd The Southern Cruisers Riding Club - Hill City Chapter of Lynchburg, Va. Meets at JV’s Restaurant at 6666 Route 50, Falls Church, Virginia. First Meets 3 Mon. at RVHD 1925 Peters Creek Rd, Roanoke, VA meets the second Wednesday of every month @ Vinny’s Italian Restaurant Monday of each month at 7:30pm. Info [email protected] Info: (540) 588-6191 @ 7:00pm. Please contact the following if interested. Phil Stanley-First Offi cer @ [email protected]. Rhonda Moyers, Second Offi cer: ABATE OF VA/Star City Concours Owners Group [email protected]. Please visit our web site www.hillcitycruisers.com Meets 7 pm, 2nd Wed @ Starters, Colorado Street in Salem VA. COG – Northeast Area www,concours.org/ne Info:(540) 985-6808.www.starcityabate.freeservers.com Mid-Atlantic Region Luray, VA #1887 [email protected] Southern Virginia American Legion Riders Patrick Sprague (540) 743-4874 We are open to all bikes & all Veterans’ & family Email: [email protected] ABATE of VA/Tidewater members of Veterans. P O Box 57 Colonial Heights, VA 23834, (804) 526- Meets 3rd Tues 7pm at House of Eggs in Norfolk. Info: (757) 560-6892 4167, email: [email protected] Down By Law 757 MC Club [email protected] www.downbylaw-mc.com President – “Quiet Storm” Star Touring & Riding Chapter 188 Email: [email protected] ABATE/FIRST CAPITOL CHAPTER 5461 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 http://vbstar.mav.net Meets 1st Sunday @ 10 am at Williamsburg Moose Lodge #757 email:[email protected], contact Lisa Laufer @ (757) 646-6738 or 5429 Richmond Road EZRR Club, Inc. Richmond, VA (757)646-6734 [email protected] Info: (804) 932-4784/www.riders-inc.com ABATE of River City Meets 3rd Sunday - Starting Sunday, Oct. 15 we will meet at 5pm at Talon’s GWRRA chapter K of Roanoke Star Touring & Riding Chapter 208 - Richmond, Va (formerly known as Beefeater’s). Talon’s is located at 11800 Hull Street Road Meets 3rd Thursday, Holiday Inn Airport Meets the 3rd Thursday each month, check the website for more info. (Rt.360) (804-744-9541). It’s about a mile east of Rt.288 (third light). Contact Web address: http://www.communities.msn.com/GWRRAVAK http://startouring.org/chapter208/ Contact: Bob Gagne (804)458-4759 or Steve at [email protected] or (804) 743-2038 Chapter Directors: Jerry & Linda Hall (540) 387-0897 [email protected] American Cruisers Motorcycle Club Chapter 54 - Chesapeake, VA STAR touring and riding chapter 260 Winchester VA, meets 2nd Saturday, GWWRA Chapter D of Richmond VA President Jack Wright (757) 465-8578, [email protected] 9am at Golden Corral in Winchester,VA on 522. 4th Sunday rides also. Email: www.americancruisers.us 2236 Cedar Crest Rd. Richmond, VA 23235 [email protected] for info

American Cruisers Motorcycle Club Chapter 57 - Va. Beach,Va. GWTA THE LOONEY TOON RIDERS TAMA – TIDEWATER ALBEMARLE MOTORCYCLE ASSOCIATION. ALL President Brian Brooner, E-Mail [email protected] Meets at 460 Western Sizzlin, 2nd Sat each month at 2 pm clubs or any organization that hosts rides/events are welcome to attend. For more info call (540) 265-2986 Come out & meet some good people from all around the area. We’re all Army of The Lord, Virginia (Virginia Beach) Christian Riding Group working together so that each one our rides/events can be scheduled not to Meets 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. 7:30 pm Hampton Roads Southern Cruisers Riding Club Chapter #26 confl ict with others & then we can all have a successful turnout. Our meetings Overseer: Rich “Sluggo” Segarra 757-450-4190 Website http//bikers.crusading.org/ are held @ 7PM on the 3rd Thursday of every month (except December) at the [email protected] www.armyofthelordva.org “Cruiser” Mosher 1st Offi cer HRSC Golden Corral, on the corner of Volvo Pkwy & Battlefi eld Blvd in Chesapeake, VA [email protected] Bayside Hog – Meets 7pm on 3rd Friday at Bayside Harley-Davidson Heaven Bound Bikers Virginia Bikers Association Inc. Meets 2nd Sat. each month 9am riders in South Hill (434) 372-3785 a great P. O. Box 1591, Hillsville, VA 24343, www.vabikersassoc.org, Outer Banks HOG – Meets 2pm, 1st Saturday at email: [email protected] Outer Banks Harley-Davidson ride after each meeting Virginia Freedom Riders Bikers with Heart Foundation, Inc. Heaven’s Saints Motorcycle Ministry P O Box 1387, Suffolk, VA 23439-1387 www.vfr.race.com President: Bernie 501 ©3 Non-Profi t Organization, National Fallen Biker Memorial Weekend, 4181 Worsham Rd. Powhatan, Va 23139 (804) 598-9026; Adams Email: [email protected] Membership Offi cer: P.O. Box 291 Bryantown, MD 20617, Offi ce: (301) 893-2900 Email: [email protected] Sandy Cartwright email: [email protected] [email protected] www.heavenssaints.com V MAX Owners Association Website: www.fi reupthundrout.com/bikerswithheart Honda Riders Club (HRC), Appalachian M/C Eric Ellerman- Regional Director, 8009 Robincrest Ct., Motto: We Ride Because We Care Meetings & open rides on 4th Sundays, 11 am at Loudoun Motorsports in Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 Leesburg, VA Info: (703) 777-1652 (919) 567-1991 home, (919) 244-4660 cell, 150*132514*24 Nextel Direct Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA Chapter V – Hampton Roads th Connect Jimmy Rey - Chapter Leader Virginia/District of Columbia, 5901 Meets 4 Wed every month 7 pm, 110 Kempsville Rd, Chesapeake, VA Atteentee Rd Springfi eld, VA. 22150-3906, Day: 703-560-0600 x 15, Cell: Club President – Susan Taylor (757) 531-1224 Honda Riders Club (HRC) st 703-618-2333 [email protected] Manassas Honda Rider’s Club Meets 1 Tues 7:30 pm Stonewall Jackson Tony Waterman - Charlotte, NC Chapter Leader, 6144 Roseway Ct., http://members.bellatlantic.net/~vze4sw29/bkva5.htm VFD 7814 Garner Road, Manassas, VA Info: (703)361-2233 Harrisburg , NC. 28075-6509, Eve: 704-454-5753 Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA VIII Indian Riders Group Williamsburg Riders MC Club Meets on 1st Wed at the Charlottesville FOP Lodge VA Beach Indian Riders Info: (757)449-6017 www.vabirg.com We meet at the Capitol Pancake and Waffl e House at 800 Capitol Landing Info: Willie Barnett (804) 589-1824 Road, Williamsburg, VA on the 2nd Sunday of each month (except May which LadyRiders, Inc. Motorcycle Club - Northern Virginia Area is on the 2nd Sat. due to Mother’s day) at 9am for breakfast & leave by 10 Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA Chapter X Meets 2nd Monday of the month, schedules rides 4th wked of month Yorktown, VA www.blueknightsvax.com am (unless earlier time is set by ride leader). We are usually headed off for See www.ladyriderinc.com or write [email protected] a ride of about 75 – 300 miles depending upon the weather and who shows Blue Knights Virginia Chapter III up to ride. The club is open to all makes of motorcycles and all abilities are Richmond, VA (804) 379-0578 Queen Beez Motorcycle & Social Association welcome. Contact John Heckman www.williamsburgriders.org www.queenbeezmsa.com P O Box 35396 Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA XIII Richmond, VA 23235 [email protected] Wings Over History Danville, Virginia meets on 13th of every month Gold Wing Road Riders Assoc. Club President - Keith Johnson Richmond Riders Appalachian Region N. Virginia District Georgia & Ken Sladak, Directors, www.blueknightsvaxiii.com www.richmondriders.com 2nd Sunday every month meets for Bikes in the 9612 Alfaree Rd., Richmond, VA 23237 Bottom 9:30am Poe’s Pub on Main St. Blue Ridge Christian Riders CMA Chapter 264 Women on Wheels rd Contact Jason [email protected] Meets 3 Monday of each month at 6:30pm Roanoke Valley Harley- www.womenonwheels.org NOW FORMING VA CHAPTER Call (800) 322- Davidson dealership. Contact: Steve Lemay (540) 721-1969, Graffan 1969 or email: [email protected] Reynolds (540) 588-6191, Dave Miller (540) 362-3962 Rolling Thunder, Inc. – Chapter 4 VA Meets the 3rd Monday of each month at Billie Joe’s 2004 Ward Road Buell Owners in the DC area Website: www.rollingthunder1.com. New members please email Kirk @ st Meets 1 Sat, 10 am at H-D [email protected] or Chris @ [email protected] THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 53 GGREGREG HHi,i, mymy namename isis GregGreg butbut I usuallyusually answeranswer toto al-al- mmostost anything.anything. MyMy ridingriding eexperiencexperience startedstarted yearsyears aagogo onon a mini-bikemini-bike whichwhich I crashedcrashed intointo a treetree fullfull tthrottle,hrottle, wwhichhich probablyprobably eexplainsxplains mymy eccentriceccentric ppersonality.ersonality. NNeedlesseedless ttoo say,say, thatthat rideride startedstarted mmyy lovelove forfor riding.riding. FromFrom tthere,here, I startedstarted ridingriding dirtdirt bbikes,ikes, a YamahaYamaha 250250 toto bbee exact.exact. Mainly,Mainly, I roderode fforor fun,fun, enduroenduro style,style, withwith a goodgood friendfriend whilewhile I waswas iinn highhigh school.school. AfterAfter grad-grad- uuation,ation, I stoppedstopped ridingriding aandnd diddid notnot resumeresume untiluntil 22001001 whenwhen I purchasedpurchased a HarleyHarley DavidsonDavidson Sport-Sport- ssterter 11200200 forfor mymy wife.wife. I won’twon’t gogo intointo details,details, tthat’shat’s aanothernother story.story. BBut,ut, iitt waswas thethe startstart ofof mymy HHarleyarley DavidsonDavidson eexperi-xperi- eence.nce. ToTo date,date, I havehave pputut overover 40,00040,000 milesmiles onon tthishis bike.bike. Additionally,Additionally, I hhaveave purchasedpurchased a Har-Har- lleyey DavidsonDavidson 20042004 FXSTFXST ((standardstandard SoftSoft Tail)Tail) andand hhaveave 20,00020,000 milesmiles soso farfar oonn it.it. I lovelove ridingriding - it’sit’s oonene ofof manymany experiencesexperiences tthathat I havehave hadhad thatthat trulytruly mmakesakes mymy sensessenses reel.reel. I enjoyenjoy thethe outdoorsoutdoors wwhilehile ridingriding solosolo oror withwith mmyy wifewife andand friends.friends. I hhaveave attendedattended manymany bikebike eeventsvents butbut yetyet toto gogo toto St-St- uurgisrgis oror onon a crosscross coun-coun- ttryry trip.trip. I planplan toto dodo thesethese tthingshings inin thethe future.future. MMyy favoritefavorite ridesrides toto datedate hhaveave beenbeen charitablecharitable eevents.vents. It’sIt’s importantimportant ttoo givegive toto thosethose inin needneed aandnd itit givesgives meme a greatgreat ffeelingeeling ofof satisfactionsatisfaction ttoo knowknow I cancan dodo thisthis wwhilehile riding.riding. I havehave beenbeen bblessedlessed withwith a beautifulbeautiful wwifeife thatthat lovesloves ridingriding andand I havehave foundfound thatthat ridingriding ccanan strengthenstrengthen bondsbonds wwithith familyfamily andand friends.friends. I hopehope toto seesee youyou outout ttherehere onon thethe pavementpavement ddoingoing whatwhat youyou love.love. DDon’ton’t hhesitateesitate ttoo saysay hihi aandnd rideride safesafe.

TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 5454 KKAYAY

I would probably deny being the big- ggestest fraudfraud inin ourour bikingbiking community,community, ifif I werewere askedasked onon a routineroutine basis.basis. How-How- eever,ver, havinghaving saidsaid that,that, I wouldwould alsoalso saysay tthathat I amam enthusiasticenthusiastic aboutabout riding.riding. HHi,i, mymy namename isis KayKay andand I gotgot mymy Har-Har- lleyey DavidsonDavidson SportsterSportster 12001200 inin 2001.2001. OOnene wouldwould thinkthink byby nownow I wouldwould havehave llearnedearned howhow toto rideride it.it. UnfortunatelyUnfortunately nnot.ot. Instead,Instead, itit isis 20072007 andand I stillstill rideride ppassengerassenger wwithith mymy husband,husband, Greg.Greg. I ccanan saysay inin fairnessfairness thatthat I diddid actuallyactually ggetet aroundaround toto signsign upup forfor lessonslessons lastlast SSpring,pring, however,however, I waswas scheduledscheduled forfor tthehe weekendweekend TropicalTropical StormStorm ErnestoErnesto ccameame toto town.town. TheThe classclass waswas can-can- ccelledelled asas thethe coursecourse groundground waswas underunder wwater.ater. LLearningearning toto rideride thisthis yearyear isis oneone ooff mymy biggestbiggest ambitions,ambitions, soso keepkeep youryour fi ngersngers crossedcrossed forfor me.me. AsAs a result,result, I aamm anan avidavid passenger.passenger. I lovelove thethe ex-ex- hhilarationilaration ofof ridingriding withwith mymy husband.husband. I havehave alsoalso learnedlearned toto reallyreally appreci-appreci- aatete ourour bikingbiking community.community. I workwork withwith a fairlyfairly conservativeconservative groupgroup ofof peoplepeople wwhoho don’tdon’t getget toto seesee thethe generositygenerosity ofof sspirit,pirit, ccommunityommunity involvementinvolvement andand ca-ca- mmaraderiearaderie thatthat I havehave seenseen onon a regu-regu- llarar basis.basis. TheyThey areare surprisedsurprised whenwhen I ttalkalk aboutabout thethe charitycharity pokerpoker runs,runs, ToysToys fforor TotsTots runsruns andand otherother eventsevents thatthat bbikersikers getget involvedinvolved in.in. SomeSome areare fairlyfairly eenviousnvious whenwhen I talktalk aboutabout thethe funfun wewe hhaveave atat VBBCVBBC andand MyrtleMyrtle Beach.Beach. I re-re- aallylly getget a kickkick whenwhen wewe comecome upup toto a traftraffi c lightlight andand somesome smallsmall childchild inin tthehe carcar nextnext toto usus lookslooks atat usus inin awe.awe. I wishwish I couldcould adequatelyadequately describedescribe tthehe sensesense ofof freedomfreedom thatthat comescomes withwith bbeingeing onon a ride-ride- thethe speed,speed, thethe smells,smells, tthehe sensationsensation ofof windwind inin youryour faceface butbut I suspectsuspect thesethese conservativeconservative peoplepeople wwillill nevernever reallyreally understandunderstand that.that. AllAll ofof wwhichhich contributescontributes toto mymy selfself imposedimposed ttitleitle ofof fraud.fraud. TheseThese conservativeconservative ppeople,eople, primarilyprimarily inin thethe medicalmedical fi eld,eld, aarere farfar moremore familiarfamiliar withwith thethe injuriesinjuries tthathat areare incurredincurred toto ridersriders andand theythey sseeee thethe potentialpotential hazardshazards butbut nonenone ofof tthehe benebenefi ts.ts. Conversely,Conversely, toto thethe peoplepeople tthathat knowknow meme inin thethe ridingriding commu-commu- nnity,ity, I’mI’m seenseen asas thethe conservativeconservative oneone pprimarilyrimarily ddueue toto mymy relationshiprelationship toto thethe mmedicaledical community.community. I amam comfortablecomfortable iinn beingbeing a partpart ofof bothboth worlds.worlds. MMeanwhile,eanwhile, I waitwait forfor warmwarm weather,weather, tthosehose everever elusiveelusive ridingriding lessonslessons aandnd moremore opportunitiesopportunities toto rideride withwith ffriends.riends. PerhapsPerhaps we’llwe’ll eventuallyeventually mmeet…ateet…at a bikebike event,event, a charitycharity rideride oorr otherother socialsocial situation.situation. PerhapsPerhaps not,not, bbutut I dodo hopehope however,however, wherewhere everever yyourour ridesrides taketake you,you, thatthat youyou rideride safe,safe, eenjoynjoy thethe rideride andand makemake itit aboutabout thethe jjourney.ourney. TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 5555 TTHUNDERHUNDER ROADSROADS MAGAZINEMAGAZINE 5656