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www.thundercolorado.com www.thundercolorado.com
FEATURES
March 15, 2011
14 29
PICKERINGTON, Ohio -- The results are in, and communities nationwide are the
winners. Members of the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) voted on their
favorite roads in America, and the top 15 selections represent scenic highways
and byways throughout the country.
“When it comes to the best places in the country to ride motorcycles, no group
of riders is more knowledgeable than AMA members,” said AMA President and
Is Bigger Really Better? Bike Week 2011 CEO Rob Dingman. “No group puts in more miles, samples more asphalt or rides
more roads.
33 36
“By publicizing our favorite roads in American Motorcyclist magazine, AMA
members will seek out these destinations and bring tourism dollars into local
communities through the purchase of food, fuel, lodging and more,” Dingman said.
The editors of American Motorcyclist magazine used the 230,000-member, non-
profit association’s website, AmericanMotorcyclist.com, to accept nominations
and tally votes for members’ favorite roads. Nearly 100 roads made the ballot,
..... and the magazine published the top 15 roads in the April issue as well as a list of
TABLE OF CONTENTS
“honorable mentions.”
“Some of these roads are familiar to motorcyclists, and others may not be,” said
Managing Editor James Holter. “They all have one thing in common: They’re the
best roads in the country, as chosen by AMA members.”
Best Roads..............................................................6
A countdown of the top 15 routes:
Bite This...................................................................9 15. Washington Route 129 and Oregon Route 3, Clarkston, Wash., to
Enterprise, Ore.
Safety Tip ~ Where Did You Get Those Shoes?.......9 14. Ohio Route 170, Calcutta to Poland.
13. California Route 58, McKittrick to Santa Margarita.
Calendar of Events................................................10
12. U.S. Route 33, Harrisonburg, Va., to Seneca Rocks, W.Va.
NCOM Newsbytes.................................................16 11. Natchez Trace, from Natchez, Miss., to Nashville, Tenn.
10. Angeles Crest Highway, California Route 2.
Yamaha Competes With BMW..............................18
9. U.S. Route 12, Lolo Pass, Idaho and Montana.
ThunderCam.........................................................19 8. California Route 36.
7. Cherohala Skyway, North Carolina and Tennessee.
Cycle Therapy.........................................................24 6. Going to the Sun Road, Glacier National Park, Montana.
Only Bikers Understand.........................................25 5. California Route 1, Pacific Coast Highway.
4. U.S. Route 550, from Ouray to Durango, Colo.
TNT........................................................................27 3. U.S. Route 129 - The Tail of the Dragon - on the North Carolina-Tennessee
border.
The Mother Road ~ Route 66.............................28
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina.
Spring Road Hazards.............................................29 1. Beartooth Highway, Montana and Wyoming.
Biker Friendly Business Listing..............................30 American Motorcyclist magazine is exclusively for AMA members, and is
not available on newsstands. For information on joining the AMA, go to
AmericanMotorcyclist.com or call (800) AMA-JOIN (262-5646).
The Jokers Wild.....................................................32
About the American Motorcyclist Association
CDOT Encourages Riders To Sharpen Their Skills..38 Since 1924, the AMA has protected the future of motorcycling and promoted the
motorcycle lifestyle. AMA members come from all walks of life, and they navigate
many different routes on their journey to the same destination: freedom on two
wheels. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights organization, the AMA advocates
© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED for motorcyclists’ interests in the halls of local, state and federal government,
WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND
IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OC-
the committees of international governing organizations, and the court of public
CUPIED BY THE ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO opinion. Through member clubs, promoters and partners, the AMA sanctions
PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, more motorsports competition and motorcycle recreational events than any other
ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LIABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND
UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PERSON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND organization in the world. AMA members receive money-saving discounts from
CLAIMS MADE BY ADVERTISERS AND AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN, AND DO NOT dozens of well-known suppliers of motorcycle services, gear and apparel, bike
NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE POLICY OF THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OR
THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES NOT PROMOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCO-
rental, transport, hotel stays and more. Through its support of the Motorcycle
HOL OR OTHER DRUGS. Hall of Fame Museum, the AMA preserves the heritage of motorcycling for future
generations. For more information, please visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com
6 - Thunder Roads Colorado - APRIL 2011 Thank you for telling them you saw it in Thunder Roads Thunder Roads Colorado - APRIL 2011 - 7
Safety
www.thundercolorado.com www.thundercolorado.com
Bite This!
Mexican Chip Casserole
1 lb. ground beef
3/4 cup chopped onion
1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce
Tips No. 34
ABATE of Colorado’s
1 can (4 oz.) chopped green chilies, undrained Rider Education Division
2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. salt
6 cups (8 oz.) coarsely crushed, lightly salted tortilla chips, divided
2 cups (8 oz.) Shredded Hot Pepperjack (if you like it spicy baby!) or Monterey Jack By Ben Hochberg
Cheese or Shredded 4 Cheese Mexican Cheese, divided
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup (2 oz.) Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese
Cook beef and onion in large skillet over medium heat 10 minutes or until beef is no
longer pink, stirring frequently; pour off drippings. Add tomato sauce, chilies, cumin and “Where DID You Get Those SHOES?”
salt; simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Coat medium casserole dish with cooking spray. Layer half of the tortilla chips, half of Do you like the music of Steely Dan? I love it. They have a song which goes,
the Monterey Jack cheese and half of the beef mixture in dish. Repeat layering with re- “I stepped up on the platform. The man gave me the news. He said, ‘You must
maining chips, cheese and beef mixture. Cover dish with foil; bake in preheated 350°F be joking, son. Where did you get those shoes?’” So, what does this have to do
oven 20 minutes. Uncover; spread sour cream over beef mixture and top with Cheddar
cheese. Bake 10 minutes or until hot and cheese is melted. with motorcycle safety? And, no, it’s not about protective footwear; we’ve already
talked about that in a previous article. It’s about image this time.
Pico De Gallo
Does your image affect your safety when you’re on a bike? I’ve been thinking
6 Roma tomatoes, diced about this lately, especially since I read an article on this subject by David Hough.
1/3 yellow or red onion, minced
6 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro Mr. Hough has some definite opinions about this; frankly, I’m not sure where I
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced stand on this issue, but it seems to be worthy of thought and the exchange of
1/2 lime, juiced ideas. So here goes. (Sound of can of worms opening. Can you hear it?)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 pinch garlic powder Let’s start out with a nice, potentially inflammatory statement by Mr. Hough: “Face
1 pinch ground cumin it – if your image evokes distaste or loathing in other drivers, you are sending the
1 pinch cayenne pepper message that you are not worthy of their respect – and therefore not worthy of
salt and ground black pepper to taste
your road space.” He’s talking about, “Lots of black, scraggly, sinister clothing with
Stir the tomatoes, onion, cilantro, jalapeno pepper, lime juice, garlic, garlic powder,
cumin, salt, and pepper together in a bowl. Refrigerate at least 3 hours before serving. prominent spikes, chains, floppy braid, and assorted nasty weapons.” Sound like
*Be careful when tasting after this is done to perfection. This is very addicting and anyone you know? Do you look like that when you ride? Even a little bit? When
might not make it to the refrigerator! you are out on the road and see a biker dressed like that, what do you think? Does
that person get more or less respect from you? Do you think that if that person had
Charra Beans a clean, quiet bike and was dressed in some other colors beside black it would
3/4 pound dried pinto beans elicit a reaction that would make him/her safer?
3 quarts water, divided
3/8 pound bacon, cut into 1-inch squares I find this topic very interesting. Almost all my riding gear is black. My bikes seem
1/4 cup plus 1 1/2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic to sound louder than stock. And they are very rarely clean, as I would rather ride
3 to 4 tablespoons chopped cilantro, divided ‘em than clean ‘em. Am I getting less respect on the road than I should be getting?
1/2 cup coarsely chopped white onion And am I putting myself at higher risk than is necessary? I have one of those black
1 1/2 teaspoons each: ground cumin (cominos) and chili powder
3 /4 tablespoon salt denim riding vests with all the patches and pins on it, but I almost never wear it.
1 cup chopped Roma tomatoes Am I safer because I tend to leave it at home? Or is it the other way around?
Soak beans in 2 quarts water 8 hours. Drain and set aside. Years ago when I started riding I thought it was cool to look like a road tramp. I
In a 1-gallon heavy pot, cook bacon until well-done. Do not undercook
or it will look raw in finished product. Add garlic, 1 to 2 assumed that if my image evoked a certain level of fear or trepidation among other
tablespoons chopped cilantro and onion to hot bacon and cook until motorists, they would stay away from me, and I would be safer for it. Excellent! I
onion is transparent, about 10 minutes. Add beans, cumin and chili could look cool and be safer at the same time.
powder. Stir and add remaining 1 quart water. Turn heat to
medium-low. Stir in salt. Cook beans slowly until fork-tender, But does it work? I really don’t know. There are so many bad drivers out there that
about 1 hour. Stir constantly to avoid burning the bottom. Stir sometimes I would think it just doesn’t matter what I would wear while on the bike.
in tomatoes and remaining cilantro and heat through.
Years passed, and colorful textile motorcycle clothing was introduced, the stuff
Perfect Margarita with Kevlar, padding, breathable liners, vent zippers, etc. I got some, a nice bright
Kosher or margarita salt, for rimming the glass (optional) yellow Joe Rocket jacket and pants. It was very practical. And HIGHLY visible, and
Ice priced right, too. I wore it a lot, and it got worn out. I decided to go back to my good
1 1/2 ounces tequila (blanco, 100 percent agave) ol’ (black) leathers, which I still had from way back when. And that’s what I wear
1 ounce freshly squeezed limejuice these days. Is that a good thing?
1/2 ounce Cointreau (not Triple Sec)
If using salt, place in a shallow dish. Moisten the rim of a rocks glass with a dampened Time changes everything, like the types of vehicles being driven on the road today,
paper towel, then dip in salt. the things drivers of those vehicles are doing (or not doing) while they’re behind
Fill the glass with ice; add tequila, limejuice, and Cointreau; stir a few times until chilled. the wheel. The population is increasing, so the number of vehicles on the road
Serve immediately. Ole’ is increasing; and this results in worsening road conditions as proper road main-
Refreshing Orange Creamsicle tenance gets more difficult and expensive. So the riding environment is different
than it was decades ago. Should my choice of my riding image change as well?
1 cup orange juice
4 scoops vanilla frozen yogurt Hough says, “…the motorcycle you ride and the gear you wear have an effect on
Combine the orange juice and frozen yogurt in a blender or food processor. Blend others.” Do you agree? Are you getting the result you want from others on the
until creamy road? Can we change our image in order to be safer? Talk amongst yourselves.
8 - Thunder Roads Colorado - APRIL 2011 Thank you for telling them you saw it in Thunder Roads Thunder Roads Colorado - APRIL 2011 - 9
www.thundercolorado.com www.thundercolorado.com
J une
Saturday Short Track at IMI www.banginbarspro- cycle.org Sports bar 10280 N. Washington Thornton, CO. North Metro Church 7th Biker Blessing 12505 ABATE State Motorcycle Extravaganza, (303)
motions.com Brian Chavez 720-249-6987, chicanobiker@hotmail. Colorado Blvd Thornton, CO 303/452-6251 789-3264 www.abateofcolo.org
13th Annual Thunder Beach Spring Rally, com
Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Museum 5th Panama City Beach, FL - www.thunderbeachproduc- ABATE D-1 Annual Sand Hills Poker Run, Ft. Armed Forces Day Veterans Benefit, Cortez, CO - 3–5
Open-House, CO Springs, CO 719/487-8005 www. tions.com World Championship Supercross, Las Vegas, NV Morgan, CO 970/542-0902 www.abateofcolo. (970) 5653402 www.cityofcortez.com Good Guys 14th Annual Hot Rod Nationals Love-
pro-promotions.com - (702) 739-3267 www.supercrossonline.com org land, CO 925/838-9876 WWW.GOOD-GUYS.COM
30 2nd Colorado Freedom Ride, Littleton, CO. www.2
16-17 5th Alternatives To Family Violence Poker Run 6-8 14 ndnationalarmedforcesfreedomridecolorado.webs.com Street Vibrations Spring Rally, Sparks, NV.
MRA Open Day at High Plains Raceway, 303/530- - Starts @ 10am Davies Locker, Westminster Co. Mile High H-D Mother’s Appreciation Weekend Combat Vets Assoc. Open Range Run 303/670- 800/200-4557 www.road-shows.com
5678 www.mra-racing.org 303-429-00 Aurora, CO 303/343-3300 www.milehighharley.com 0624
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www.thundercolorado.com
Ride for a Cure 4th Ann’l Benefit @ Bass-Pro Deuces Wild MC ‘Save the Tata’s Run’, Greeley, CO 22
Shop, 7970 Northfield Blvd, Denver 303/522-6525 970/534-0533 www.deuceswildmc.com Quaker Steak & Lube 1st Harley Give Away,
Westminster, CO www.quakersteakandlube.com
Vision Ride Benefit for Youth, Brighton, CO 14
303/902-4273 www.vision4brighton.com Flag Day 24-26
The Redstone Rally, to benefit Project Sanctuary,
SCTNow Benefit Run, sign up 9am @ /Light House 16-18 Redstone, CO 970/963-2691 www.restonerally.com
Cafe, Berthoud CO 970/420-1391 www.sctnow.org Colorado State HOG Rally, Northglenn CO.
303.349.6201, www.costatehogrally.com Chick’s Run, Casper, WY 307/232-9171
4-5
Pueblo Biker Bash, Pueblo, CO - 215 Canal St, 17-19 25
www.pueblobikerbash.com Elko Motorcycle Jamboree, Elko, NV www.elko- Bushwacker’s Mt. St. Vincent’s Children’s Home
motorcyclejamboree.com 775/934-4466 Run 303/722-0280 bobatbushwhackers@Yahoo.
5 com
Hardtail Ale Trail Poker Run & Benefit 303/241- Thunder on the Mountain, Mile High Nationals,
3718 www.bandimere.com Morrison, CO Ride for Life Poker Run Benefit for Suicide Pre-
vention 303/277-1551 www.rideforlife.com
Colorado Springs 16th Annual United Run, 18
Colorado Springs, CO 719/527-1878 K99 and MAX FM Radio present the Sleigh Rid- 26
ers “Summer Series” Poker/Toy Run benefits 11th Annual Tejon Street Bike Fest, Colorado
11 Santa Cops of Weld County. Registration at Springs, CO - (719) 487-8005 www.pro-promotions.
Aurora Honda’s Hi Plains to the By Plains Ben- Greeley Harley Davidson starts at 9AM. www. com
efit for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital 303/341-7200 k99.com/sleigh-riders-motorcycle-toy-run. 970-
590-3040 Wind & Fire MC 15th Ann’l Burned Children Ben-
VNVLV MC Support a Soldier/POW/MIA Run efit 303/944-4090 www.DenverBurnCampRun.org
Poker Run, 303/388-3370 Deluxe Motor Co. Swap Meet, Wheat Ridge, CO
303/988-8828 www.deluxemotorcompany.com 27
Ron’s Ride starts at Thunder Mountain H-D Regis- Million Mile Monday – Ride Your Bike Day
tration begins at 9am 970/222-8175 Rocky Mountain RETT Syndrome 5th Annual Benefit
Run, 303/829-2010 For event listing in our calendar, send an
11- 19 e-mail with the name of the event, date,
88th LACONIA Motorcycle Week, The original Sena/Dutton Memorial Scholarship Poker Run, location, time, cost and contact information.
Riding Rally! AMA sanctioned National Gypsy Brighton, CO 303/857-6115 events@thundercolorado.com
Tour, Vintage Races, Hill Climbs. One of the BIG Event submission deadline is the 10th of
3! Laconia, New Hampshire, 603-366-2000 www. ABATE of CO Randy Run & Benefit. Frontier Club, each month
laconiamcweek.com Aurora, CO www.abateofcolo.org 303/789-3264
IT IS ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA TO CALL
21 AND VERIFY EVENT INFORMATION
First day of Summer
PRIOR TO ATTENDING
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Colorado fun facts
www.thundercolorado.com
Firsts Greeley is home to the internationally-acclaimed in rock canyons. Today parts of their intricate struc-
Greeley Independence Stampede, which dates tures still stand at Mesa Verde National Park near
Deep in the mountains of southwestern Colorado, back to the 1800s and features national rodeo Cortez, which was the first national park created
Ouray is home to the world’s first park devoted events, live music performances from national solely to preserve the work of humans.
exclusively to the sport of ice climbing. The park headliners, carnivals and more.
opened in 1995. For 16 years. Bent’s Old Fort was the lifeblood of Odds and Ends
The World’s First Rodeo was held on July 4th, 1869 trade trappers and hunters along the Santa Fe Trail.
in Deer Trail, Colorado, 54 miles east of Denver. The fort was created by two brothers, both of whom Colorado is the only state in history to turn
were known as good brokers of peace with Indian down the Olympics. Denver was supposed to host
Mile High Trivia nations in the area. the 1976 Olympics. 62% of all state voters chose
at almost the last minute not to host the Olympics,
The thirteenth step of the state capital building in because of the cost, pollution and population boom
Denver is one mile above sea level. it would have on the State of Colorado and the City
of Denver.
“Beulah red” is the name of the red marble that
gives the Colorado State Capitol its distinctive splen- The longest set of dinosaur tracks discovered
dor. Cutting, polishing, and installing the marble in to date is in Picketwire Canyon near La Junta in
the Capitol took six years, from 1894 to 1900. All of southeastern Colorado. Some scientists believe
the “Beulah red” marble in the world went into the the footprints reveal these dinosaurs were herding
Capitol. animals.
Colfax Avenue in Denver is the longest continuous Pueblo is the only city in America with four living
street in America. recipients of the Medal of Honor.The world’s first
rodeo was held on July 4th, 1869 in Deer Trail.
Denver has the largest city park system in the
nation with 205 parks in city limits and 20,000 acres Denver lays claim to the invention of the Cheese-
of parkland in the nearby mountains. The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge burger. The trademark for the name Cheeseburger
Railroad has been in continuous operation since was awarded in 1935 to Louis Ballast.
1881. The line was constructed primarily to haul
Historic Hot Spots There are nearly 20 rivers whose headwaters begin
mine ores, both gold and silver, from the San Juan
in Colorado, with the Continental Divide directing
Mountains. The Railroad continues to provide year
Lieutenant Zebulon Montgomery Pike explored each river’s course. Colorado is the mother of
round train service and has appeared in more than
the southwest portion of the Louisiana Territory in rivers.
a dozen movies including “How the West was Won”
1806, and though he never climbed the peak that (1963) and “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid”
bears his name, he did publish a report that at- (1969).
tracted a lot of interest to the area. A trip to the top of
In 1859, John Gregory discovered “The Gregory
Pikes Peak, in 1893 inspired Katherine Lee Bates to
Lode” in a gulch near Central City. Within 2
write the ballad, America the Beautiful.
weeks, the gold rush was on and within 2 months
the population grew to 10,000 people in search of
their fortune. It came to be known as “The Richest
Square Mile on Earth”.
John Henry “Doc” Holliday’s brief and tumultuous
existence led him to Glenwood Springs where he
succumbed to tuberculosis and died at the Hotel
Glenwood on November 8, 1887
In Fruita, the town folk celebrate ‘Mike the Head- Information provided by: U.S Department of
less Chicken Day.’ Seems that a farmer named Transportation Federal Highway Administration
L.A. Olsen cut off Mike’s head on September 10,
1945 in anticipation of a chicken dinner - and Mike
lived for another 4 years without a head.
The Stanley Hotel, in Estes Park, has a long list
of celebrities and heads of state that have stayed
at the luxurious 1909 hostelry, which was also said
to be the inspiration behind author Stephen King’s Around 550 A.D, a basket maker culture developed
novel “The Shining.” in southwestern Colorado. Known as Ancestral
Puebloans this native tribe formed and built villages
14 - Thunder Roads Colorado - APRIL 2011 Thank you for telling them you saw it in Thunder Roads
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MOTORCYCLISTS AWAIT ROADBLOCK RULING SUPREME COURT RULES IN FAVOR OF MILITARY FUNERAL
Motorcycle riders across the country are anxiously awaiting a decision from the PROTESTORS
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York which they hope will Freedom of Speech was considered by our Founding Fathers to be our most
declare New York’s “motorcycle only” roadblocks to be unconstitutional. The so- important Constitutional right, which is why it is the First Amendment to the Bill of
called “safety checkpoints”, which target well-known motorcycle events, force Rights, but the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling favoring the rights of hateful
motorcyclists to leave the roadway, regardless of any wrongdoing, and have their protestors over the dignity of a military funeral doesn’t sit well with some motor-
persons and property inspected for equipment violations, proper paperwork, DUI cyclists. In particular, the Patriot Guard Riders were formed in 2005 to protect
and stolen VIN numbers. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administra- the funerals of fallen warriors and shield mourners from the incendiary demon-
tion (NHTSA) is now providing Federal funding for law enforcement to conduct strations waged by Westboro Baptist Church, which claims soldiers’ deaths are
such motorcycle-only checkpoints nationwide despite objections raised by mem- “divine retribution” for American tolerance of homosexuality.
bers of Congress and legal challenges from the biker community. The High Court ruled 8-1 on Wednesday, March 9th with only Justice Sam Alito
The New York lawsuit is the first to challenge the constitutionality of motorcycle dissenting, that the First Amendment protects hateful protests at military funerals,
checkpoints. The plaintiffs are being represented by Proner & Proner, led by N.Y. despite the pain they cause grieving families. “Our soldiers fought to give West-
Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) Attorney Mitch Proner, a motorcycle-riding boro the right to free speech,” said Mike Todd, a member of the Patriot Guard days. Governor Chris Christie signed a bill into law allowing the Sunday motor- AMERICA’S MOST DANGEROUS DRIVERS BY PROFESSION
lawyer who has a long history of doing “pro bono” (free) legal work to protect the Riders from Reading, Michigan, noting the irony. cycle sales on March 3; though the measure does not affect the state’s ban on Chances are the car that cut you off in traffic was driven by an attorney, or a judge,
rights of motorcyclists. The Proner law firm commenced the lawsuit on behalf of Although describing the court’s holding as narrow, Chief Justice John Roberts Sunday automobile sales, nor does it apply in Bergen County where Blue Laws or government worker or maybe even a dog groomer, according to a new study
four motorcyclists who were detained at two separate checkpoints, as well as wrote for the majority, saying of free speech; “It can stir people to action, move continue to prohibit the sale of most nonessential items on Sundays. listing the most dangerous drivers by profession.
representing the interests of ABATE of New York and the National Coalition of them to tears of both joy and sorrow, and -- as it did here -- inflict great pain … we State Senator Donald Norcross introduced the legislation after a Camden County A study conducted by an online insurance agency found that lawyers snared
Motorcyclists (NCOM). cannot react to that pain by punishing the speaker.” He said the national commit- dealership complained about losing customers to stores in nearby Pennsylvania the No. 1 spot on a Top 10 list of “Most Dangerous Drivers By Profession,” with
The checkpoints in question are funded by a grant from the New York Governor’s ment to free speech requires protection of “even hurtful speech on public issues and Delaware as a result of the Sunday ban, adding that most motorcycle buyers 44% claiming a prior accident when receiving a car insurance comparison quote
Traffic Safety Committee and the troopers who work them are paid overtime. Al- to ensure that we do not stifle public debate.” tend to make purchases on weekends. from insurance.com. Findings were based on accident claims as a percentage of
though the stated purpose of the checkpoints is to promote safety, the majority of The case arose from a protest at the funeral of a Marine who had died in Iraq, “With our dealerships closed for business on Sunday, consumers were heading quotes, the agency said, and used its proprietary data.
the more than a thousand tickets which were issued during the first year of the Lance Cpl. Matthew Snyder. As with hundreds of other funerals, members of the across the river to make their purchases at bike shops in neighboring states,” said Here is the full list Insurance.com’s study of most dangerous driver’s by profes-
checkpoints had nothing to do with safety and instead focused on non-safety vio- Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka, Kan., appeared with signs bearing such mes- Norcross. “Especially in this economy, we need to give businesses the tools they sion: 1-Attorney/Judge; 2-Financial professionals; 3-Government worker (GS6);
lations such as loud pipes. The written guidelines for the checkpoints specifically sages as “Thank God for Dead Soldiers” and “America Is Doomed”. need to remain competitive.” 4-Bartender or Waiter; 5-Business Professionals; 6-Dog Groomer; 7-Marketing/
state that one of the purposes of the checkpoints is to look for stolen and forged Albert Snyder sued regarding the intentional infliction of emotional distress at the Motorcycle businesses in Indiana and Wisconsin have also been trying to overturn Advertising professionals; 8-Barber/Stylist; 9-Coach; and 10-Nurse.
VINs and the police readily admit that they often have undercover members of funeral of his son, and won an $11 million jury award that was later reduced by a bans on Sunday bike sales.
their gang and auto theft units working the checkpoints looking for signs of crimi- So why did these folks rank so high? Distraction.
judge to $5 million, but the verdict was overturned by a federal appeals court that That was apparently the opposite for those on the other end of the study, deemed
nal activity. ruled the Constitution shielded the church members from liability. The Supreme CONGRESSIONAL MOTORCYCLE CAUCUS EXPANDS the least dangerous drivers. To that end are athletes and homemakers, the agen-
According to Proner, the Supreme Court of the United States has repeatedly Court’s decision upholds the appeals court ruling that threw out a $5 million judg- Newly-elected U.S. Rep. Allen West (R-FL), who was accused by his incumbent
made it clear that any roadway checkpoint whose primary purpose is general cy said. “Professions that demand multi-tasking - being on the phone, moving fast
ment to the dead Marine’s father. foe of belonging to a “biker gang” because he was supported by the South Florida on a tight schedule - are prone to more distractions and, from there, more ac-
crime control constitutes an unreasonable search and seizure under the Fourth Dissenting Justice Alito strongly disagreed, likening the protest to fighting words, Confederation of Clubs, has become one of the newest members of the Congres-
Amendment and is presumptively unconstitutional. Notwithstanding that fact, the cidents,” said Sam Belden, vice president at Insurance.com. “On the other hand,
not protected by the First Amendment. ”Our profound national commitment to sional Motorcycle Caucus. though the job of a homemaker demands multi-tasking, young children are often
progress reports which the police prepared on the checkpoints specifically state free and open debate is not a license for the vicious verbal assault that occurred The bi-partisan caucus is comprised of members of Congress who are passionate
that the grant funds are used “for overtime for intelligence gathering and the sub- along for any car ride. And when children are involved, people tend to take their
in this case,” he wrote. about motorcycling and who work to promote the interests of motorcyclists. The time and use greater caution.”
sequent criminal and traffic enforcement.” The police admit that the checkpoints, CMSC has actively highlighted the safety of motorcyclists by passing Congres-
which focus only on equipment violations and forged and stolen VINs, do not ad- Westboro’s antagonistic tactics have resulted in a torrent of legislative activity
rarely rivaled in the annals of First Amendment history, with 41 states and the sional Resolutions supporting the goals of May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness QUOTABLE QUOTE: “In matters of conscience the law of majority has no place.”
dress any of the major causes of motorcycle accidents such as reckless driving, Month, drawing attention to Ride to Work Day and ensuring that motorcycle safety
driver inattentiveness and alcohol impairment. U.S. Congress having passed laws limiting funeral protests, usually establishing ~ Mohandas “Mahatma” Gandhi (1869-1948) Hindu Spiritual and Political leader
minimum distances and time constraints, while numerous municipalities have also is remembered in the transportation reauthorization process.
The case, Wagner et al. v. The County of Schenectady, et al. could wind up in passed funeral-protest ordinances at the local level. “I’m very pleased to be able to join the Congressional Motorcycle Caucus to work BREAKING NEWS FLASH:
the U.S. Supreme Court. The future of motorcyclists’ rights hangs in the balance. with my esteemed colleagues on issues related to motorcycling,” said West, who FORMER WISCONSIN SENATOR DAVE ZIEN INJUåRED IN MOTORCYCLE
BILLS INTRODUCED TO PROHIBIT MOTORCYCLE-ONLY RIDING OUT THE RECESSION is indeed an active motorcyclist who contributes political articles for a local South ACCIDENT
With gasoline prices approaching $4 a gallon, commuters are turning to more Florida biker magazine “Wheels on the Road”. As we prepare to go to press, NCOM has just learned that longtime bikers’ rights
CHECKPOINTS fuel efficient motorcycles to save money. Sales and interest are up across the West joins with fellow U.S. Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI), Tim Griffin (R- activist Dave Zien, a former Wisconsin state senator and record-setting long dis-
Even as Georgia police prepared to launch the nation’s first federally-funded mo- country, and many motorcycle dealers anticipate the popularity of motorcycles to AR), Reid Ribble (R-WI) and Jeff Denham (R-CA) as the most recent motorcycle tance rider, was involved in an early morning crash on Sunday, March 13th while
torcycle-only checkpoints during Daytona Bike Week, lawmakers in Washington increase even more. enthusiasts on the caucus. Other members include Reps. G.K. Butterfield (D-NC), attending Daytona Bike Week, and was taken by helicopter to the Tallahassee
were taking steps to cut federal funding for the controversial practice. Signs that the two-wheeled world is getting back on the road to recovery are com- Michael Conaway (R-TX), John Duncan (R-TN), Bob Filner (D-CA), Randy Forbes Memorial Medical Center and placed in intensive care.
Wisconsin Reps. Jim Sensenbrenner, Paul Ryan and Tom Petri introduced House ing from not only improving motorcycle sales, but also by the financial health of (R-VA), Walter Jones (R-NC), Doug Lamborn (R-CO) and Tim Walz (D-MN). According to news accounts, an SUV traveling in front of Zien on Interstate 10
Resolution 904 on March 3rd that would prohibit the secretary of transportation bikers themselves. Fewer bikers appear to be making late payments or defaulting Reps. Michael Burgess (R-TX) and Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) founded the Con- attempted to change lanes, lost control and flipped onto its side. Zien, 59, was
from providing funds to state and local governments for the use of motorcycle-only on their motorcycle loans, according to a report issued by Fitch Ratings, a credit gressional Motorcycle Safety Caucus on June 26, 2009 and currently serve as unable to avoid the overturned vehicle. Early reports indicate that Zien lost part of
traffic checkpoints. rating agency working with Harley-Davidson’s Financial Services (HDFS) division. co-chairs of the caucus, despite a gunman’s vicious attack on Giffords. his left leg and suffered a broken hip.
“The first step in motorcycle crash prevention should be rider education and in- In addition, the report also notes the improving market for previously owned mo- Reps. West and Giffords were both recently selected by the NCOM Board of Di- Zien is a longtime member of the NCOM Legislative Task Force who fought
creased awareness. Taxpayer money should not be spent on helmet checkpoints torcycles is again gaining strength, in part due to reduced inventory levels at deal- rectors to receive the coveted Silver Spoke Award - Legislative at the upcoming against helmet laws and for bikers’ rights during his 13 years in the state Senate,
that do not prevent crashes,” Petri said in a news release. “Also, it’s outrageously ers. This would allow for any repossessed motorcycles to be sold for a better price 26th Annual NCOM Convention over Mother’s Day weekend May 5-8, 2011 at the from 1993 to 2006. He’s been inducted into both the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of
intrusive. Nobody is suggesting pulling cars off the road for unscheduled inspec- than they may have the year before. Hyatt Regency in Albuquerque, New Mexico. For further information, or to register Fame and the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and rode more than 1 million miles
tions, so why are motorcycle riders being harassed?” for the NCOM Convention, visit www.ON-A-BIKE.com or call (800) 525-5355. on a 1991 Harley-Davidson Sport Glide.
“We stand in solidarity against the unconstitutional use of motorcycle-only check- NEW JERSEY LIFTS BAN ON SUNDAY MOTORCYCLE SALES Please keep Dave in your thoughts and prayers, and NCOM wishes him all the
points being implemented in Georgia, and may be coming to your state soon,” New Jersey motorcycle dealers are rejoicing that they can now sell bikes on Sun- best on his road to recovery.
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BMW has dominated the adventure touring category of motorcycles for over 30 This bike that was first released in Europe in 2010, has now found its way to the
years. The GS model BMW motorcycles, which first appeared in 1980, defined US. Yamaha has a few demo bikes that are touring the states and are taking
this new class of on and off road capable machines. In 2009, the GS series of orders for a limited production run. Their priority delivery program, as they call
800 and 1200 cc bikes accounted for over 40% of BMW motorcycle sales. Sev- it, takes orders until March 31, 2011 for delivery starting in May 2011. Yamaha is
eral manufacturers build dual sport models like the Kawasaki KLR650, the Suzuki calling this a 2012 model motorcycle. The bike they are showing is based on the
Dl1000 V-Strom and others. Even Buell had an entry in this category before clos- European model, so there may be a few changes to things like the lighting and
ing their doors last year. However, the Yamaha XT1200Z Super Ténéré may be exhaust to meet the DOT and EPA standards when the US production model is
considered the first real direct challenge to the BMW R1200GS. delivered.
I had a chance to view the new Yamaha at Missouri’s Donelson’s St. Ann store,
which just happens to be right down the street from the local BMW dealer. The
bike was for display only and there were no test rides at this time. The XT1200Z
comes with a considerable list of standard features for $13,900 some of which are
not available on their competitor’s at any price. The bike sports a liquid cooled
parallel twin 1199cc engine with a 6-speed transmission and a shaft drive. The
fuel-injected engine also allows the rider to choose from two different ignition map-
pings. One mode is for touring, which they say has a softer response and the
other, sport mode, for the highest performance. Along with that, you can also set
the traction control to two different settings or turn it off all together. The traction
control helps to maintain grip on a variety of surfaces, both on road and off, and
on dry ground or in the rain. Complimenting the traction control, on the other
side of the coin is a unified brake system with ABS. When the front brake lever is
squeezed, most of the force is sent to the front dual discs but some is also sent to
the rear single disc. The rear brake pedal only operates the rear brake. Although
the wheels do use spokes, they are designed for tubeless tires.
The instrument cluster features an analog tachometer; digital speedometer/
odometer and indicator lights to let you know what mode you have set. The seat
and windscreen heights can be adjusted for taller riders and preload on the rear
mono-shock suspension is easily set. The front forks also allow control over the
compression and rebound dampening to allow you to tailor the ride characteristics
to your liking. The foot pegs are another interesting feature on the bike. When
riding normally, your boot rests on a cushioned rubber insert. When you need
to standup for those off-road maneuvers the rubber compresses and your boot
meets the steel teeth for better grip.
The bike on display had a few optional items such as the engine guard, skid plate
and panniers. Although the luggage is an option, the bike includes extra lock cyl-
inders for them keyed to match the ignition key when you buy it. If you are in the
market for this type of bike, be sure and stop by your nearest Yamaha dealer for
literature and more information.
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T N T
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SPRING
became the first (and so far only) father son pair to win the Daytona 200. After
Historic Route
his racing career, Don went on to become a successful publisher and author. He
currently publishes Drag Specialties Magazine, Parts Magazine and Parts Europe
RIDING HAZARDS
Magazine.
By: Houndog Del Hofer – Del Hofer has been a Harley-Davidson dealer for 50 years, first in
Huron, South Dakota, then in Fargo, North Dakota. His love of motorcycling is
The idea of linking Chicago with Los Angeles obvious through many of his activities. Del is active in the American Motorcyclists
was an idea conceived by entrepreneurs Cyrus Association and is the longest serving member of the Harley-Davidson Dealer
Avery (of Tulsa Oklahoma) and John Woodruff Yea! The sun is shining, air temperature is inching up past 50 degrees… time to Advisory Board. A long-time AMA amateur racer in all styles of racing, Del also
(of Springfield Missouri). Construction of the get the bike out and ride. It’s a lot of fun, but don’t forget this time of year brings served as an AMA referee and District Congressman for quite some time. Del’s
“Super Highway” was commissioned in 1926. its own special riding hazards. Though warm rides are more fun than winter passion for motorcycling is evident to anyone who meets him. He encourages
This historic road crossed 8 states (Illinois, Mis- rides, there are extra hazards to be aware of. We can learn to watch out for the men and women alike to take safety courses, get active in riding and enjoy it in a
souri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, obvious and minimize our risks. safe and fun way.
Arizona and California) and 3 time zones, for
a total of 2448 miles. It starts in Chicago, Illinois, and ends in Santa Monica, Traffic is a concern any time of the year, but in the spring, drivers may not be Robert Craig “Evel” Knievel – Probably one of the best-known motorcycle rid-
California. thinking about us. Cagers haven’t had to watch out for us bikers for several ers in history, Evel Knievel liked to live on the edge. From riding his bicycle at an
months now and so could be less observant than usual. We often say ‘ride like early age to pole vaulting when he was in the army to playing semi-pro hockey,
The author, John Steinbeck, proclaimed Route 66 as the “Mother Road” in his your invisible’. Just figure they are not going to see you and ride defensively to Evel tried it all. In the early 1960s, Evel joined the motorcross circuit with moder-
novel “The Grapes of Wrath” which was written in 1939. To this day, Oklahoma get the best results. ate success until a broken collar bone forced him to take a job as an insurance
has more miles of Route 66 still in use than any of the other states. Kansas has
the shortest section of the “Mother Road” with only 13 miles. The old round barn Watch for reduced traction this time of year. Wet leaves and/or ice sheets salesman. The insurance business didn’t hold him for long, though, and soon he
in Arcadia, Oklahoma, is the most famous and most often photographed barn on lurking in the shadows of overhanging branches is a common occurrence. With moved his family to Washington where he started his first daredevil show. During
Route 66. spring showers, road repairs and construction on the increase - loose gravel, his career, he attempted 75 ramp-to-ramp motorcycle jumps, many successfully.
sand or mud should be expected anytime anywhere. Expect fluids on the In 1974, Knievel unsuccessfully attempted a jump across the Snake River on a
Perhaps more than any other American highway, Route 66 symbolized a new steam-powered rocket – the Skycycle X-2. Knievel died of pulmonary disease in
roadway - dropped from other vehicles; these are pretty slick too.
positive outlook that spread through the nation’s postwar economic recovery 2007 at the age of 69.
efforts. “Get your kicks on Route 66” was a popular song written in 1946. Another challenge to our traction is the traffic markings on the pavement such
as the crosswalk stripes, especially when conditions are wet. What about those Michael Prugh – While Michael Prugh is certainly well recognized as a motor-
In 1956 the Federal Aid Highway Act was passed, calling for a national interstate
nasty ‘tar snakes’? Basically the summer sun turns them back into oil, making cycle designer and manufacturer, it’s his work educating others that has taken
highway program. The passing of the Interstate Highway Act would eventually
them slippery as hell on hot afternoon rides. The best idea is to ride aware of him beyond the title of “builder.” Michael has been involved in many builds for
replace the “Mother Road” with a system of interstate highways. In 1984 Route
66 was officially decommissioned as a federal highway. However, much of the your surroundings and check the road surfaces as well as the traffic often. charity and as a competitor. He took second place two years in a row in the AMD’s
road and the landmarks that rest alongside of it are still preserved by Route 66 World Championship of Custom Bike Building and has been featured in numerous
Grabbing or romping on the brakes when you feel a wheel slipping is generally
Historical Associations as well as private groups. publications featuring various builds. In 2010, Prugh led a team of students from
not a good idea. Gently straighten the bike up as possible, consider squeezing in
Western Dakota Tech to build “Method” a true “one off” bike that was auctioned
So, enjoy the “Mother Road” while you still can. Some day it may be nothing the clutch to coast over the slick spot, and don’t panic. Look well ahead and as
at the annual Legends Ride. This year, Prugh is again teaming up with Western
more than a memory of times past. possible, find the non- or less-slick areas of the road to ride on.
Dakota Tech, Black Hills Harley-Davidson and the Buffalo Chip to build a bike for
I gained a bit of insight into traction management from reading Proficient the Legends Ride.
Motorcycling I & Proficient Motorcycling II by David Hough. These books
can provide a solid foundation for understanding the art of staying upright Gloria Tramontin Struck – You’d never believe this outspoken 85-year-old wom-
on 2 wheels. For more advanced traction and other advanced street riding an is the same girl who in 1941 at age 16 tearfully told her brother “I do not want
techniques, I would recommend the Total Control book by Lee Parks. If you to know how to ride!” Well, her brother won that argument and she’s been riding
search the Internet, you may be surprised by the amount of literature currently from that day until today. She’s owned 14 motorcycles in her lifetime, has traveled
available to aid you in living to ride another day. every state in the continental U.S. as well as Canada. At the age of 76, she took
two trips to Europe, traveling a total of over 6,500 miles in 8 countries. Gloria has
This time of year it’s recommend to take a certified riders course. Beginners been a Motor Maid for 65 years, having joined in 1946 and is the longest member
course, experienced rider course – they all offer you a chance to improve your still riding. She continually encourages women to ride and to be involved. Gloria
riding skills and get your head on straight about riding safe. No matter what your is an inspiration to riders and non-riders alike.
riding ability, there is always more to learn and, taking a class is fun too. See
ya’ll on the road soon! Jasmine Bluecreek Clark Mike & Margaret Wilson – While both Mike & Margaret Wilson have contributed
individually to the sport and lifestyle of motorcycling, those who know this couple
consider them to be a pair. Mike was an expert dirt-track and TT racer both before
and after his stint in World War II. Right after his return, Mike bought a 45 cubic
85 Year-Old Motor Maid Gloria inch Harley-Davidson motorcycle as a birthday surprise for Margaret. Mike and
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