The Journey

Motorcycle riding through volcanoes

2011-09-09T15:58:00.000-04:00

I love reading about all the scenic byways in the U.S.A. One of them especially stood out, the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway. This byway is 500 miles long and takes you from one active volcano to another. If you like discovering geological wonders while riding, this may be the trip for you.

The byway begins at the southern end of California at Lake Almanor. This point is only a few miles from many active geological wonders at Lassen Volcanic National Park and takes you to the northern end at Crater Lake National Park in Oregon.

As you ride this byway, you will see the great Cascade range, known for its chain of tall active volcanoes, and deep evergreen forests that stretch from the Canadian border to northern California. Cascade volcanoes erupt with fierce explosions which occur on the average of 2 eruptions per century. The most recent was Mount St. Helen in Washington State.

You will pass by many small volcanoes as you drive the byway. The Cascades are mostly made up of hundreds, even thousands of small shield volcanoes that lie between the large stratovolcanoes like Mount Shasta and Crater Lake (the former Mount Mazama).

The major volcanoes that you will pass along your travels of this byway are Crater Lake, Medicine Lake, Mount Shasta and Mount Lassen. The 6 mile wide caldera, which Crater Lake now fills is a 4 thousand foot deep hole that has filled up with rain and snowmelt to a depth of about 1,900 ft.

This byway also contains some of the most abundant wildlife habitat in the western part of the United States. Many unique and diverse landscapes also come together through this area.

Depending on whether or not you have just 1 day or a week, there is a travel plan along this byway that will fit your schedule.

Check out my other blogs for more motorcycle adventures and ride safe.

10,000 feet on a motorcycle

2011-08-30T15:43:00.002-04:00

With incredible views at elevations of 10,000 feet and higher, this All-American Road is breath-taking. A 54 mile section of the Highway beginning 8 miles south and east of Red Lodge and ending just east of Cooke City, Montana has been awarded the National Scenic Byways status.

The Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile travel corridor, beginning (at its eastern most terminus), just south of Red Lodge, Montana at an elevation of 6400 feet and ending (at its western most terminus) near the Northeast Entrance to Yellowstone National Park and Cooke City and Silver Gate, Montana, at an elevation of 7500 feet. In between those tow elevations, the road rises to 10, 947 feet at Beartooth Pass in Wyoming.

Looking for adventure? - Check out motorcycle riding on the wild side. The beauty, the wildlife viewing, and the sheer wildness of the ride make the Beartooth Highway one of the premier rides in America today. Two of the Beartooth Highway's gateway communities host motorcycle rallies each year, and the Highway's close proximity to Sturgis make it a natural stop for bikers traveling to and from the South Dakota rally.

Plan at least two hours of driving time on 68 miles of the Beartooth Highway. Be sure to pack a windbreaker and warm clothing for the trip!

The Beartooth corrider is surrounded by Custer, Gallatin and Shoshone National Forest near Yellowstone National Park, and passes through millions of acres of untouched wilderness. Gaze upon mountains, and glaciers on mountain peaks over 11,500 feet while traveling down the highest elevation highway in the Northern Rockies.

Accessing the Beartooth Highway takes visitors through one of three "gateway communities". Each of the communities offers unique visitor services and experiences. Visit each of the community's web sites when planning a trip to ensure a full traveler experience.

Points of Interest

1. Rock Creek Vista Point Rest Area & Interpretive Trail - Elev 9190'. This wayside is twenty-one miles from Red Lodge. Vista Point provides breathtaking views of Rock Creek Canyon and Hell roaring Plateau. The short trail to the overlook is wheelchair accessible.

2. International Summer Ski/Snowboard Camp - Elev 10,737'. The ski area lies in Wyoming above the Twin Lakes Head wall with slopes of 15 to 50 degrees and is one of North America's oldest ski training areas, operated by International Ski and Snowboard Camp. It is generally open for skiing by late April and runs into early July with access to 3,000 feet of terrain unless there is insufficient snow.

3. Gardner Lake Pullout and Trailhead - Elev 10,536'. This is the trailhead for the Beartooth Loop National Recreation Trail. It is also a great location for viewing the Bear's Tooth, a pyramidal spire rock formation carved by glaciers and the namesake of the Beartooth All-American Road. Look for alpine flowers in mid-July.

4. West Summit, Beartooth Pass Overlook - Elev 10,947'. This is the highest point along the Highway with spectacular views in every direction. In late may and early June, this high elevation are can produce harsh weather conditions including blowing snow and fog, resulting in short term (less that 24 hours) highway closures.

5. Top of the World Store - Elev 9,400'. This stop offers food, fuel, gifts and lodging and is 38 miles from Red Lodge and 25 miles from Cooke City. The store was originally built on Beartooth Lake in 1934 then moved to its current location in the 1960's It is operated under a special use permit from the Shoshone National Forest.

6. Beartooth Bridge, Falls and Ravine - Elev 8,900'. Beartooth Lake outlet flows under an historic bridge constructed in the 1930's using unique construction techniques. The high mountain water rushes south through the ravine and then turns to present a magnificent waterfall to travelers along the highway. A quick side trip to the Beartooth Recreation Picnic Area takes you to Beartooth Lake, which is great for fishing and canoeing against the backdrop of Beartooth Butte.

7. Clay Butte Fire Lookout Tower - Elev 9,811'. At one time this tower was used as a fire lookout. Now, it serves mainly as a visitor center. A well-signed pullout begins a three-mile drive up a gravel road to clay Butte Tower. Visitors are welcome to take in the panoramic views that include Montana's highest point, Granite Peak and Beartooth Butte, and enjoy the interpretive displays of the 1988 wildfires that burned in and around Yellowstone National Park.

8. Pilot and Index Peak Overlook - Elev 8718'. These two peaks located many miles west of the pullout in Wyoming rank in the top ten of the most often photographed scenes along the Beartooth All-American Road. In addition o the Peaks, this location looks down on the beautiful Clark's Fork River Valley, and the Wild and Scenic Clark's Fork River that ultimately flows into the Yellowstone River.

9. Clark's Fork Overlook - Elev 8,000'. This pullout offers closer views of the Clark's Fork River Valley. In late summer, patches of brilliant yellow aspen trees contrast with the background of dark mountains in the distance.

10. Lake Creek Falls - Elev 7329'. This rumbling falls plummets under the Beartooth All-American Road. A short hike takes you to a pedestrian bridge where you can get a closer look at the powerful waterfall.

11. Crazy Creek Cascade - Elev 7,329'. A short hike upstream presents a mass of water tumbling over rocks giving a cascade appearance rather that a falls. A generous parking area makes stopping at this site easy.

12. Clark's Fork Trailhead and Picnic Area - Elev 7,900'. Just as the Beartooth All-American Road travels back into Montana there is a mile-long stretch of recreation facilities including hiking and horseback-riding trailheads, Chief Joseph Campground and a Nez Percé Interpretive Site. This stretch of the highway is a great place to stop for a picnic, a hike or a history lesson!

13. Beartooth Highway Orientation Site - Elev 7,500'. At the west end of the Beartooth All-American Road you will find a wealth of information about the Beartooth Mountains, early area mining history and the Cooke City / Silver Gate area.

http://www.beartoothhighway.com/index.html

Freedom Is Never Free, The Forgotten Eagles

2011-08-29T11:19:00.001-04:00

Forgotten Eagles®, Inc. a non-profit organization formed in 2002 by a group of concerned citizens that have come together in a common desire to ensure our nation does not set aside the needs of veterans and their families.

Thier goal, to heighten awareness and publicize the POW/MIA issue, to advocate for the fullest possible accounting of all of America’s POW/MIA’s, to promote physical and cultural improvement of America’s veterans and their families, to assist the disabled and needy veterans, and to participate in community projects that benefit those veterans.

Since its inception, Forgotten Eagles®, Inc. has become the largest cash contributor to the Michigan Veteran’s Trust Fund, with contributions totaling $98,661. They have also established a Veterans Memorial Maintenance Fund to assist individual chapters in maintaining the designated Veterans Memorials in their area of service. Forgotten Eagles® continues its support of Michigan Veterans by making yearly contributions to the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans and the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center in Saginaw with cash donations as well as a recent donation of digital picture frames to use in the treatment of Alzheimers.

Growing to six chapters, covering 83 Michigan counties, this group of concerned citizens is sincerely making a difference in the lives of many Michigan Veterans along with keeping the POW/MIA issues at hand by continuing to press for accountability of all America’s POW/MIA.

The goals of this group could not be met without the support of caring communities, similar organizations and concerned citizens that show support thru donations, participation in Runs and other fundraising events, volunteering their time and simply thanking each and every Veteran we come in contact with. The old adage “Freedom is Never Free” holds true now, just as it has for many years past.

Membership in the Forgotten Eagles® does not require that one be a veteran. Only that each individual believe in and support our mission statement, “Fighting for the rights of POW/MIA, helping to protect future veterans and veterans in need from all wars.”

Every dollar we receive directly benefits Michigan Veterans.

We are committed to improving their quality of life and have sincerely made a difference in their lives.

If you're ready to help those who sacrificed everything for our freedom, then it's time to join the organization.

http://forgotteneagles.org/

EVENTS

The leather clad fashionista: Strut your brain bucket!

2011-08-22T14:38:00.002-04:00

Bell helmets have released their 2012 collections of fashionable lids for the sheak motorcyclist.
This collection is full of graphics, and modern designs.

Bell has been around for about 50 years, so we all recognize the brand and agree on the quality of these helmets. Today motorcycle helmets come in an array of designs, models, and types. From full faced and open faced helmets to half helmets and flip-up helmets.

For those of us who choose to wear a helmet and those of us who are required by law to wear a helmet, we are all to familiar with the variety to choose from.

When it comes to safety, a motorcycle helmet is the single most important piece of protective riding gear. It has also become the most prominent element to express your personal style

Today helmets come in all colors, styles, and designs, and the 2012 collection of Bell Helmets are no exception. There is absolutely no excuse for not looking good on your bike with these attractive brain buckets.

Big, tattoo clad bikers with street names like Snake, Bubba, and Spider, will look sheik strutting their stuff in these designer helmets.

Whatever your style, there is no reason for not being able to find that helmet that screams YOU!

The Badlands on a steel horse

2011-08-18T12:58:00.003-04:00

Overlooking magnificent geological wonders as you ride down twisty roads. Nothing is so beautiful, so untouched. Sitting on your steel horse, you seem transported back into the wild west as you overlook the stone pyramids, deep canyons and domes displaying shades of color that cannot be captured on film. The views are incredible, that is the only way it can be described. Nothing is so beautiful than the scenery of the Black Hills and Badlands.

The Black Hills is not only a cornucopia of spectacular scenery but also home to Mount Rushmore. Work began on this structure in 1927 and took 14 years, 400 workers and one million dollars. The region provides spectacular National and State scenic byways.

Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway

This 70 mile stretch of scenic byway has been named one the 10 most beautiful byways in the United States and named for the late Peter Norbeck , a South Dakota conservationist, Governor and U.S. Senator. The Byway includes picturesque lakes, towering granite formations, six picture-perfect tunnels, tight hairpin curves, spiral “pigtail” bridges, and the wildlife ranges of Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, Black Elk National Wilderness Area and Custer State Park.

Along the route, be prepared to encounter steep grades, sharp curves and tunnels, which all add to the uniqueness and beauty of the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway. Wildlife crossings are not marked, because they could be anywhere. A traffic jam here can be caused by a herd of buffalo or mountain goats.

Nothing beats the rugged beauty of the Badlands which features an inspiring and striking collection of stone pyramids and canyons boasting various shades of color.

Unique among the Nation’s National Parks, half of the Badlands National Park is made up of a mixed grass ecosystem that is unlike any other on earth; it consists of many native plants and animals. There is a short scenic loop along highway 240 that takes about an hour and is a great way to explore the park. There are about 14 scenic overlooks along the way which provide spectacular views.

If you have only gone to South Dakota for the Sturgis Rally and not traveled around this State, you have missed out on the beauty and magnificence that is truly South Dakota.

Best adventures: I'm lost!

2011-08-12T18:36:00.009-04:00

The best adventures for me are riding with no particular place to go, no time limit and no agenda, just ride and when we get tired, we stop for the night where ever we end up.

Going through small towns I never knew existed and are not found on a map. Traveling down winding roads with beautiful scenery and sweet smells of pine. You can't find this if you planned it,,,especially if you planned it. Experiencing a feeling of total freedom, finding solice in your own thoughts, humming a tune over and over again while traveling down the road. The fact that you have no job, no money, past due bills and a car with major problems seems unimportant,,, It doesn't matter. The world is laid out before you and you're out to make discoveries and capture once in a life time moments.

There is nothing like traveling on a motorcycle. You can't explain it, you must experience it. Those are the moments that you find out what is really important in life. There are no do overs, just moments. They come and go, as hard as we try, these can not be recreated. They are captured, cherished and returned. All that remains is the memory and the smile on your face.

Traveling in Maine

2011-08-03T14:57:00.006-04:00

Maine , the easternmost state in the United States bordered by the Atlantic. Almost 230 miles of coastline and four designated National Scenic Byways. Each of Maine’s byways boast archaeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, and scenic qualities that make it worth the visit.

The shipping port of Bucksport overlooks historic Fort Knox, the largest fort in New England. With its labyrinth of passageways to explore, this 1844 granite structure will fascinate as you gaze at the awesome views of Penobscot River and Verona Island.

Gulf Hagas

The gorge of Gulf Hagas is described as “The Grand Canyon of Maine” Filled with spectacular waterfalls, swimming holes, and chutes. Hike along an 8 mile loop which takes you along the rim of a deep 400 foot gorge and cuts through a branch of the Pleasant River. Gaze at views of Slate Canyon, take pictures of the immense population of wildlife, and witness the beauty and wonders of this untouched oasis.

Acadia - Saint John Valley

Riding on the Acadia Byway is something not to be missed. This byway travels through Acadia National Park and the historic villages of Bar Harbor and Northeast Harbor on Mount Desert Island and hugs the rugged Maine coast and the untouched old-growth forests. No need to worry about accommodations as you travel this route, you will find several along the way.

Old Canada Road Scenic Byway (U.S. Rt. 201)

Enter Main’s massive forests while traveling down Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway along Route 201 which winds alongside Kennebec River, Wyman Land and the Dead River. Small villages such as Bingham and Jackman offer relaxing places to stop for food or shop. Encounter abundant wildlife in mountain ridges, forests, and rivers. The fall season is a great time to visit which is a time that displays beautiful foliage colors and scenery when traveling this byway.

Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway

Traveling down Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway, you will have many opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. While wandering this route, you will awe in the beauty of crystal clear lakes and rolling mountains.

Scoodic National Scenic Byway

For a rugged adventure, travel down the Schoodic National Scenic Byway and explore a less developed and unspoiled area of the Downeast Maine coast. Experience the art of lobstering as well as other traditional ways of life in the sheltered harbors and watch the work of local craftsmen and artisans along this pristine coastline.

For more information on taking a trip to Maine, check out: http://www.visitmaine.com/

Above America's High Five

2011-08-02T13:30:00.003-04:00

Surrounded by water and full of beautiful scenery. Travel across the third largest suspension bridge in the world and the longest in the wester hemisphere at 26,372 feet.

There is more to Michigan than meets the eye and if you love adventuring and discovering out of the way places, Michigan's Upper Peninsula can't be overlooked. Ride Michigan's undiscovered country in the Upper Peninsula.

Northern Michigan has many unique places to discover like nothing you have seen before. Explore the lighthouses of Northern Michigan, gaze at beautiful waterfalls, and travel down scenic byways. Nothing beats a tour along Northern Michigan’s scenic byways during the the fall color season. If you are an adventure seeker, try a canoe or kayak trip on one of Northern Michigan’s scenic rivers or go diving to check out one of the Great Lakes ship wrecks.

Sugar Island

A favorite Indian sugaring spot for many hundreds of years, this 15-mile-long island on the St. Mary's River is lined with sugar maples. Many Ojibwa lived here in recent times. The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians bases its tribal membership on being able to trace ancestry to that Sugar Island band. Cottages and small fishing resorts dominate the island today.
Sugar Island Traditional Powwow

For a vacation experience by the woods and water that's close to town, consider investigating Sugar Island resorts, especially if you like to fish or boat.

Porcupine Mountains

Far and away the leading attraction of the far western Upper Peninsula is the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Of its 60,000 acres, 30,000 have never been logged.

See hundreds of spectacular waterfalls. Walk part of the 21 miles of pristine beaches and discover colorful stones and agates. . Paddle your sea kayak over crystal clear waters along Lake Superior’s sculpted shores or canoe the winding Ontonagon River.

On Copper Creek just south of Porcupine Mountains State Park you will find a series of breathtaking falls. Located only by hiking, these untouched wonders can not be missed. This is a beautiful, canyon-like area, with high banks relatively close to the river all the way down. The creek is walkable, as the only fast water is in the waterfall area.

Ironwood

Unlike many of the old U.P. mining cities, Ironwood's downtown still has cool shops like Dan's Antique Mall and the Fabric Patch, a serious food co-op, and a pretty little park at Aurora and Suffolk.

The area boasts the Black River National Forest Scenic Byway, including numerous waterfalls and the Copper Peak Ski Flying Complex. In the Summer and Fall, Copper Peak offers chairlift and elevator rides to the top of the world's largest ski jump. http://www.ironwoodmichigan.com/

Macinac Island

tahquamenon falls

Is The Hoka Hey Challenge A Scam???

2011-07-27T16:14:00.001-04:00

On August 5th, 2011, the most elite riders will gather for the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge™. The route will consist of 10,000+ miles and will require passion and determination to complete, but it is only open to those who ride a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. This year’s event will begin in Phoenix, Arizona and travel through all forty-eight contiguous States and Canada to Nova Scotia.

The top 25 finishers will be paid a total of $500,000 in prizes but participants are required to ride the entire route only if they want to receive any Prizes and Awards. For these participants; their bikes will be confiscated; there will be a drug screening, a polygraph test and a thorough cross verification of receipts and the vapor trail from their tracking devices. The polygraph test will be enough to verify whether the contenders slept in a hotel or trailered their bike. The first to finish the challenge will be required to undergo a drug test and a polygraph test as well as show proof the route was completed properly by submitting receipts.

Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge

Hoka Hey Clouded By Controversy

The Hoka Hey Challenge was started by Beth and Jim (Red Cloud) Durham of Hot Springs. According to the Rapid City Journal, Jeri O'Barr filed a complaint with the State of Florida's attorney general regarding the Hoka Hey Challenge's organizers.

In her complaint, O'Barr says that "the organizers refuse to give us a number registered to ride but I have heard somewhere between 500 and 750. There were supposed to be tracking devices on the bikes ... that did not happen. There was supposed to be a film crew for a reality show.

Toni Schultz, whose husband was participating in the challenge stated, “He treated us like garbage and it absolutely blew me away," Schultz said. "He said to us ‘I used you (the riders) to get money because my people (on the reservation) needed water.'"

Oglala Sioux Tribal officials also dismissed the organizers’ statements that the money raised by participants would fund water improvements on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. OST President Theresa Two Bulls said tribal officials had not been contacted about any donations. Also, “The administration of the Oglala Sioux Tribe’s Rural Water Supply System is also unaware of a plan by the HHMC organizers to improve the water system with the revenue generated by the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge,” Two Bulls said in the release.

In response, Jim “Red Cloud” Durham via cell phone from Wyoming, where he said he was “driving people’s motorcycles back,” expressed to the Homer Tribune some concern that misinformation was being spread by people not affiliated with the Hoka Hey Organization.

When questioned about the release from Oglala Sioux Tribal President Theresa Two Bulls, Durham called it a “mess” created by some crazy woman up there talking about something she knows nothing about.

The Winner Announced

Rapid City Journal

On August 11, 2010 Will Barclay, winner of the 2010 Hoka Hey Challenge received his $500,000 check at the Broken Spoke Campground in Sturgis.

“Maybe it wasn’t all neat and tidy, but we did it and it was one of the best experiences of my life,” said Barclay. “After I finished the polygraph … the next day the money was transferred into my account.”

Participants in the ride who attended the celebration shouted “Hoka Hey, Hoka Hey,” as Barclay accepted his check.

“This was the best event in motorcycling that I’ve ever seen, ”said Barclay. “It was a little bit of freedom, and I am absolutely glad I did it.”

Jim Durham said in previous Journal stories that the purpose of the challenge was to get water into homes on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation by raising funds for the Red Cloud Humanitarian Fund.

On Wednesday at Broken Spoke, Durham said that the operation of bringing water into at least one home was successful and that “we did everything we said we would do.”

So it’s up to you what you think of the Hoka Hey Challenge. This event is strenuous both physically and mentally which can upset many people and we all know you can’t make everyone happy. Some people bitch no matter how hard you try to do good.

“It was definitely a challenge,” said Richard Stinnett of Missouri, who participated in the challenge. “A lot of people got upset quickly because it was more a mental challenge than anything.

The application deadline has been extended out to August 4th so there's still time to GET ON YOUR BIKES & RIDE!!

Beware the tail of the Dragon

2011-07-23T12:37:00.006-04:00

Anyone looking for an exciting highway will enjoy this stretch of US129 also known as The Dragon’s Tail. This stretch of highway boasts 318 curves in 11 miles; it is America's number one motorcycle and sports car road. This highway closely follows an old Indian trail that wound through Graham County before climbing the Smoky Range and crossing into TN at Deals Gap, where it continues along the ridges before emerging at Calderwood, and finally on to Fort Loudon. The Dragon is considered by many as one of the world’s best motorcycling and sports car roads.

The road is desolate and full of beautiful scenery. It is not a difficult ride, but it is not a road for the squeamish. Average daily traffic is approximately 400 vehicles, the highest elevation at Deals Gap is 1,962 feet and the elevation changes drastically at different points of the ride.

Different times of the year that are ideal for riding this curvy road are early April through late May before the summer crowds arrive. The weather can be particularly pleasant this time of year with trees blossoming their foliage in late April. The last weekend in April is the Harley Rally in Cherokee which attracts many bikers so traffic will definitely build up on this weekend. In Mid-August through September, many vacationers have departed to get their kids back in school, but traffic is still above average. Rain can interfere in August. Around September 21 is the opening of bear season which would be a good weekend to avoid.

June through the middle of August is family vacation time and also when the traffic picks-up on the Dragon. There is usually good weather with warm pavement. This is the time that law enforcement usually tightens, especially if there has been a rash of injuries/deaths. Honda Hoot fills the Dragon in June. Weekends find many bikes here if you are looking for the “show”. The least traffic on the Dragon is before 11 am and after 5 pm. The heaviest traffic is noon to 3 pm. Night riding on the Dragon can be an interesting experience.

The nearby Cherohala Skyway is quickly becoming the number two destination with its remote 60 miles of scenic mountain highway. This area also has other incredible roads to travel like the Moonshiner 28, Devil Triangle, The Diamondback, Six Gap North Georgia, The Snake and Great Forest Service dual Sport Riding.

I'm alway interested in hearing about out of the places to travel on motorcycle, so let me know.

The Civil War,,,, On A Harley?

2011-07-21T11:19:00.005-04:00

Here’s is a traveling idea I bet you never thought about!

Arkansas Introduces Civil War Trail by Motorcycle. You heard it right, Arkansas is spear-heading this attraction which includes a new Heritage Trail created to make battle sites more accessible for motorcycles.

Eight Civil War campaigns in Arkansas are designated on this trail and a brochure with a map lays out how motorcycles can visit the battle sites.

The State’s Civil War sites include Prairie Grove, one of the most intact Civil War battlefields in the nation, where Union and Confederate troops saw intense fighting on Dec. 7, 1862.

Other trails featured on the map for motorcyclists lead to Pea Ridge and follow the Little Rock Campaign, the Attack on Pine Bluff, the Confederate Approach to Helena, the Camden Expedition, Price’s Raid and Ozark to the Battle of Fayetteville.

If you have a love for history as well as a love for riding, this attraction is for you. It’s just another hidden gem discovered in our great nation.

Other Civil War Site to Check Out on Motorcycles Civil War Travel

Home of the world's best motorcycle collection

2011-07-20T11:05:00.004-04:00

I have been researching interesting places to go and one of these caught my eye. It’s Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, home of the world’s best motorcycle collection. This museum has over 1200 vintage and modern motorcycles as well as racecars. They also boast the largest collection of Lotus cars as well. They have approximately 1200 motorcycles but only display 600 of them at any given time. This massive collection on bikes ranges from 1902 to current year production. Some of the bikes on display are your typical run of the mill street bikes but they also show off rare Gran Prix race machinery.

The museum is located in Birmingham, Alabama on 740 acres, which includes a world class 2.38 mile racetrack.

I love researching the different attractions our States have to offer. It is amazing at how many interesting out of the way places there are in this Country. I am not big on tourist destinations so when we are thinking of a road trip, I get on the computer and discover some great out of the way gems. A couple of weeks ago we rode to Ohio to check out Seneca Caverns. Who knew there were caverns in Ohio?

I am always up for an adventure and welcome any suggestions for our next trip!

Loud Pipes Don't Save Lives?

2011-07-19T12:53:00.001-04:00

I was reading an editorial from Scott Cochran, Editor of U.S. Rider News entitled "Loud Pipes Are An Expression, Not Safety Equipment." I found his opinions very interesting on this subject and I have to say that he does have a point.

Don't get me wrong, loud pipes are cool! I enjoy the throaty sound of a Harley as much as the next guy or girl but are they REALLY a life saver? Scott Cochran states that "exhaust noise travels backwards." and continued on explaining that unless you’re riding 3 mph and blipping the throttle constantly, there’s little chance anyone in front of you will hear your “loud pipes.” At some point the loud pipes would get the attention of a driver, but as Scott so definitively reminded us, a baseball outfielder will attest, you see the ball heading your way before you hear the crack of the bat.

Obviously this opinion can be argued and I am sure, never will be resolved, but as I read on he mentioned a law in a town of Georgia where it is illegal to wear saggy pants and anyone who is caught gets slapped with a $200 fine. Now to some this is a blatant attack on our constitutional rights, but the truth is, what is offensive to some of us is a form of expression, rebellion or a statement of individuality to others.

I tend to agree that loud pipes do not really save lives,,,, but they are cool! But they are really about expression, and our individual rights as Americans to be able to voice our opinions and express our uniqueness.

And as for the safety issue? You would do much better to invest in the loudest train horn you can find to get a motorists attention.

We Helped A Church

2011-06-20T14:41:00.000-04:00

With the Fallen Bikers Rally and Bike Run over I have had some time to reflect on everything that has happened.

Even though the turnout was not what we were hoping for, I realize that their was a reason for everything that did happen. We met new people and made friends with some. Friendships that would have never happened otherwise.

I stood back looking at everything that we had put together and began to cry because things did not happen the way I had planned. I now realize that things we plan are not necessarily what God has planned.

We had a great event and had some great people helping us out. We had bands, food and vendors come forward and volunteer their time and we were able to get the tent we needed which was obtained at the very last minute.

At the end of the day, which ended earlier than expected, I stood there watching as the vendors packed up there items and the big tent began to come down., I stood back surveying the end of the rally with tears in my eyes. The strong sense of sadness within me and the overwhelming feeling of failure was realized, because I did not bring this event to the level necessary to raise money for the families of fallen riders.

As I was standing there, a person I now consider a good friend brought over the owner of the tent we used. He was also a Preacher and began to tell me of how he was compelled to help others overcome addiction. He began explaining to me how all those he had helped had ended up stealing from his church and he lost many things. He talked to me about how his heart hurt because of this and he felt as if he had failed.

He then began to tell me how his spirits were lifted when he got our call that we would like to rent his tent. Unknown to us, he was financially struggling with getting his church up and running. He left the rally for a while to immediately go out and buy hymnals and other items. He looked at me with a smile and said that I may not have raised money for the families of fallen riders, but today you helped a church. Because of our need for a tent, he was able to buy music for his congregation.

We may not have seen our plans come to fruition,,,,,but that day we helped a church and maybe that was what we were really supposed to do.

Fallen Bikers Rally - The First Year

2011-06-14T11:17:00.000-04:00

Well the first Fallen Bikers Rally has come and gone. Yes, there were quite a few hiccups but valuable lessons were learned.

We did not make enough money to give to The Children of Fallen Riders which was unfortunate and has saddened me greatly. Vendors who gave their word to be at the event did not show, the vintage car clubs did not show and only a hand full of bikers bothered to stop by.

This event was to benefit The Children of Fallen Riders to help families with financial problems after the untimely death of a family member,,,a biker. I know there are families out there that to need help because of this. One local family was helped last year and given money so she could buy her children Christmas presents. But for some reason this event did not draw the crowd I was hoping for or thought we would get.

Some lost sight on what this group is all about and made it a personal crusade. This greatly saddened me and I wondered what went wrong? When did this turn in such a sour direction? Maybe it is my own naivity. I always see the best in people or at least try to. I guess this should just be taken as a lesson learned.

We will pick ourselves up by our boot straps and move onward. We will try again next year and hope that this event will get better. In the meantime here our some pictures from this years event and hopefully next year the sun will be brighter, the crowds will be bigger and we will have even more pictures.

FUNNY PICTURES

2011-05-04T09:00:00.000-04:00

The Compassion of a Biker

2011-05-03T14:05:00.000-04:00

Sunday afternoon I witnessed an abundance of compassion for a little girl most of us did not even know. Money was generously donated without hesitation and the hand of friendship was offered freely.
This compassion and generosity did not come from a church or a prominent civil group, but from an assembly of long haired, tattooed bikers from all walks of life.

I feel a greater sense of authenticity and genuine concern for our fellow brothers and sisters within an assembly or bikers then I have or will ever experience in a church.

Getting Ready to Ride

2011-04-03T13:23:00.000-04:00

The weather is getting warmer and I'm getting everything together for another great season of riding. We plan on doing more long distance riding this year so we have put together our rain suits, tools, flashlights, first aide kits and anything else we can think of to keep us protected and keep us safe. There is nothing more I hate than being caught in a situation without the gear. Raider Black X-Large Leather Motorcycle Riding Gloves

We are looking for a tent and luggage to fit on our bikes. There are so many things to chose from we have been comparing prices and durability, cause you know when you're on the road, things better hold up,,,and be waterproof!!! Genuine Buffalo Leather 7-Piece Motorcycle Saddlebag Luggage Set

I've been searching the internet for some good deals but I'm not sure of the quality. If anyone can give us some advice on durability and weather resistance, that would be great. I don't mind paying for quality, as long as I know it's a quality item. Wenzel Ridgeline 7 X 7-Feet Three-Person Dome Tent (Blue/LightGrey/Red)

I am sooo excited for this years riding. Advice is welcome and ride safe everyone!!!

2011-03-30T22:44:00.001-04:00

Fallen Bikers Rally

2011-03-29T19:08:00.000-04:00

Everything seems to be falling into place for the Fallen Bikers Rally and Memorial Run on June 11. We have a great line up of musicians willing to donate their time to this great cause and donations are pouring in from local businesses. Many people have stepped up to offer their services to make this rally a great success and I appreciate more than anyone knows.
The musical line up includes:

Brian Maddox: A courntry singer that comes to us all the way from Nashville, Tennessee
Walking Ionia: A talented group of up and coming stars in the rock and roll industry. (I can feel it)
Chaos: A great group of talented guys playing a variety of classic rock and roll tunes.

We plan of having a custom bike show, many vendors, radio stations and some great food and even a much better time. This is gonna be a great family event, whether you ride a motorcycle or not.

I hope everyone can join us. The rally starts at 2pm and goes till 9pm at the Ottawa County Fairgrounds in Holland Michigan. Google it for the directions.

Only $5 per person gets you in to be a part of all the fun! Proceeds of the rally will go to
Children Of Fallen Riders

If You Have To Ask,, You Won't Understand

2011-03-22T12:32:00.000-04:00

Some great motorcycle sayings.

Some we already know, some, maybe not.

Four wheels move the body. Two wheels move the soul.
Life may begin at 30, but it doesn't get real interesting until about 70 mph.

You start the game of life with a full pot of luck and an empty pot of experience. The object is to fill the pot of experience before you empty the pot of luck.
If you wait, all that happens is that you get older.
Saddlebags can never hold everything you want, but they CAN hold everything you need.

The only good view of a thunderstorm is in your rear view mirror.

Don't ride so late into the night that you sleep through the sunrise.

Sometimes it takes a whole tank of fuel before you can think straight.

Never hesitate to ride past the last street light at the edge of town.

Never do less than forty miles before breakfast.
One bike on the road is worth two in the garage.

Young riders pick a destination and go. Old riders pick a direction and go.

Whatever it is, it's better to do it in the wind.

Two-lane blacktop isn't a highway, it's an attitude.

People are like motorcycles; each is customized a bit differently.

The best alarm clock is sunshine on chrome.

A friend is someone who'll get out of bed at 2 am to drive his pickup to the middle of nowhere to get you when you're broken down.
Catching a yellow jacket in your shirt at 70 mph can double your vocabulary.
If you want to get somewhere before sundown, you can't stop at every tavern.
There's something ugly about a NEW bike on a trailer.

A long ride can clear your mind, restore your faith and use up a lot of fuel. If you can't get it going with bungee cords, wire and electrician's tape, it's serious.
Never try to race an old geezer, he may have one more gear than you.

Bikes parked out front mean good chicken-fried steak inside.

You can forget what you do for a living when your knees are in the breeze.
Only a biker knows why a dog sticks his head out the car window.
There are two types of people in this world;

people who ride motorcycles and people who wish they did.

The Biker Bitch: Time to Get Wild and Crazy!!

2011-03-19T13:06:00.000-04:00

The Biker Bitch: Time to Get Wild and Crazy!!: "Well another beautiful day in Michigan. Getting the motorcyle ready with a new battery and putting on a new highway bar so I can stretch the..."

Time to Get Wild and Crazy!!

2011-03-19T12:57:00.000-04:00

Well another beautiful day in Michigan. Getting the motorcyle ready with a new battery and putting on a new highway bar so I can stretch these long legs!!
Already have biker events on the schedule and they're coming up fast. Does anyone else think time is really flying by?
Soon my upcoming blogs will include pictures and stories of my adventures as I plan to attend many events and go on a few trips this year. Yes, there will be some crazy times, that's to be expected. lol
Take care this year, ride safe and keep tha tank up and your tires down!!!

Bikers Can Give Life After Death

2011-03-17T15:15:00.002-04:00

It's true we all get a bad rap as bikers. We're all thrown in the same category; bad news, killers, mean and unpleasant to be around. But for those that have spent time with us, they know it is far from the truth.

As bikers many of us spend our summer weekends participating in charity events and going on benefit rides. We give our time and money to those who are in need, never asking for anything in return.

Let's face it, we bikers have a risky hobby. Many motorcyclists are killed each year, maybe that's the thrill of riding motorcycles. I do think that those of us that do ride have the opinion that when your time is up, it's up.

So we continue to give to charities and participate in benefits till God takes us home to that biker rally in the sky. But why stop giving then? Below is a story of a man who was saved because of the generosity of a tissue donor,,, a son, a brother, a friend, a biker.

We can't bring Bob back, but he lives on in others.

New life: Liver transplant from unlikely source saves Allegan man

By Tim Keith
Staff Writer

Thursday, November 4, 2010 10:59 AM EDT

Barb Garlock displays a photo of her late brother, Bob Wright, whose liver helped save the life of Tom Lindsley (left). (Photo by Tim Keith)

When Tom Lindsley sits in Barb Garlock’s chair for a haircut, a very special family reunion takes place.

Inside Lindsley, 56, is the liver of his long time hair stylist’s deceased brother, Bob Wright.

Lindsley received the liver after Wright died as the re-sult of a June 9 motorcycle accident in Holland.

Lindsley had been on the transplant list since 2006 when he had developed cir-rhosis of the liver as a com-plication of Hepatitis C.

A retired Army sergeant, he contracted the disease at some point during his 22-year military career, possibly when he received a blood transfusion for a duty related injury in 1979.

Unbeknownst to Lindsley, his condition had deterio-rated enough that he would probably not have lived to see this Thanksgiving.

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A missed friendship

Though they did not know each other in life, Lindsley and Wright had many things in common.

They shared a hair stylist, Garlock.

Lindsley lives within 100 yards of, and worked next door to, the salon where she cut hair.

Wright would endure the harassment of friends and make a 20-mile trip, often on his motorcycle, to get his hair cut by his younger sister.

Like Lindsley, Wright was also an outdoorsman with a passion for hunting and fishing.

“If it moved, he shot it; if it bit a hook, he’d catch it,” Garlock said.

Lindsley wonders what it may have been like if they had developed a relationship during Wright’s lifetime.

“We just missed being really good friends by a little bit of coincidence,” he said.

Helping once more

Around 5 p.m. June 9, Wright was on his way to Casey’s, a restaurant in Hol-land, to meet some friends. He had already picked up one of them on his motorcy-cle.

When a driver turned in front of him on 136th Ave-nue in Holland, he had little time to react; both Wright and his passenger were thrown from the bike.

Wright was taken to a hos-pital in Grand Rapids in a coma; he would never wake up.

By the next morning it be-came clear that Wright would not survive, Garlock said.

For Garlock it’s a comfort knowing that her brother’s organ helped to save her friend.
“My brother’s not gone; he lives on,” she said. “If I need a big brother hug, I come see Tom.”

Will Helmet Choice Affect Our Pocket Books?

2011-03-17T12:45:00.000-04:00

For years Michigan has been debating whether or not motorcyclists should wear helmet. Many people feel it is neccessary while others feel it is a choice. I'm all for freedom of choice, I am not for paying for that choice out of my own pocket if a biker chooses not to wear a helmet.

I looked around on the NHTSA site and couldn't seem to find where it stated that there was no difference in fatalities when wearing a helmet or not wearing a helmet. In fact, I found just the opposite. Many of the reports on this site indicated that fatalities rose when laws were changed to
not having to wear a helmet. I just wonder what that means to insurance rates. Would we see an increase in our rates if Michigan get a no helmet law? Hey I'm all for choice, just as long as I don't have to pay for it out of my own pocket.

Below is some interesting information from Abate of Michigan and NHTSA. This is not all of the information available so please feel free to check out these websites.

Why it makes good sense to amend Michigan’s helmet law
Abate of Michigan
1. NHTSA statistics prove that states with a helmet law are not safer than those with free choice.
2. Amending the helmet law would finally bring Michigan in line with the majority of other states.
3. This would boost Michigan’s economy by $1.2 billion and bring 2700 jobs into Michigan. This includes increasing tourism which has been falling for 7 straight years in a row.
4. Insurance rates will not increase, as no state has ever increased their rates due to a helmet-law modification.
5. This will benefit the Michigan State Troopers and the Deputy Sheriffs.
6. Again in this session there was overwhelming support in both the Michigan's House and the Senate.
http://www.abateofmichigan.org/Reasons%20to%20amend%20Michigan's%20helmet%20law.pdf

Well I looked up the NHTSA

On July 1, 2000, Florida repealed the legal requirement that all motorcyclists wear protective helmets. Instead, state law now requires helmet use only by riders under the age of 21, or by older riders who do not have a minimum of $10,000 medical insurance coverage.

A Florida helmet use observation survey carried out in 1998 before the helmet law change showed that virtually all observed riders were wearing helmets. However, only 59 percent of the observed sample wore compliant helmets (headgear that meets FMVSS No. 218) while 40 percent were wearing noncompliant helmets (headgear that does not meet FMVSS No. 218). These figures compare to 84 percent compliant and 15 percent noncompliant observed in a 1993 survey suggesting that noncompliant helmet use was increasing over time. Following weighting, the 1998 survey results yielded estimated statewide helmet use of 65 percent compliant helmets and 35 percent noncompliant helmets.

A post law change survey, done in 2002, found 47 percent compliant helmet use, 6 percent noncompliant helmet use and 47 percent no helmet use. These results indicate that use of compliant helmets has declined following the law change, while wearing noncompliant helmets has largely been abandoned.

Motorcyclist Fatalities

While Florida’s all-rider helmet law was repealed in July 2000, there was a substantial increase in motorcyclists killed in Florida beginning in the first 6 months of the year, before the effective date of the law. Fatalities in the two years following the law change (2001-2002, N=575) were 71 percent greater than the 337 fatalities that occurred in 1998-1999, compared to an increase of 37 percent for the nation as a whole (4,560 to 6,227). Fatalities in Florida per 10,000 registered motorcycles increased 21 percent compared to 13 percent nationally for the two years before and after the law change.

There was an annual average of 181 motorcyclists killed in Florida in the 30 months before the law change, and an annual average of 280 in the 30 months after the law

change; a 5 Motorcyclist fatalities in Florida have continued to increase. In the three years after the law change (2001-2003), 933 motorcyclists were killed, 81 percent more than the 515 motorcyclists who were killed in 1997-1999. The actual number who died in 2003 was 358.

While the reduction in helmet use observed after the law was repealed would be expected to result in more non-helmeted fatalities, the actual increase was above what would be expected based solely on the decrease in helmet use. Non-helmeted motorcyclists who were killed in Florida increased from 15 (9 percent) in 1998, when observed helmet use was close to 100 percent, to 198 (66 percent) of the total motorcycle fatalities in 2002, an increase of over thirteen times. When the increase in motorcycle registrations after the law was changed is taken into account, the non-helmeted fatality rate per 10,000 registered motorcycles increased from 0.7 fatalities in 1998 to 6.1 in 2002. Helmeted motorcyclist fatalities, on the other hand, fell from 7.6 per 10,000 registered motorcycles in 1998 to 3.2 in 2002.

http://www.nhtsa.gov/staticfiles/nti/motorcycles/pdf/809849.pdf

While this is old data, I fould it very interested.

Evaluation of the Reinstatement of the niversal Motorcycle Helmet Law In Louisiana - May 2008

The 1999 helmet law repeal in Louisiana dramatically decreased helmet usage from almost complete usage by all motorcyclists to approximately 50 percent. The years following repeal showed a sharp increase in the number of motorcyclist fatalities in Louisiana. Observed helmet use doubled upon reinstatement of the law in August 2004.
Crash data showed that the odds of wearing a helmet in a crash after the Louisiana motorcycle helmet law compared to pre-law was extremely high. This increase in the compliance of helmet use after the reinstatement of the universal helmet law also led to significantly lower proportion of fatalities, severe injuries, and moderate injuries during the post-law period compared to the pre-law reinstatement. A time series analysis indicated that there were also fewer severe and fatal crashes following the law change.
Data related to hospital stay by people in motorcycle crashes were limited, and conclusive results could not be determined. Prior to the law change, there were 43 drivers with brain injuries with an average cost of $23,669 per injury at this Shreveport trauma facility. Based on the observational data, it is likely that only about 50 percent of those riders would have been unhelmeted. NHTSA has estimated that the helmet is 67 percent effective at reducing brain injury (NHTSA, 2004). Given that nearly 100 percent of riders were helmeted after the law, we can estimate that nearly all of those riders would have been helmeted had there been a helmet law. Thus, at Shreveport alone an additional 21.5 riders would have been helmeted with 14.4 of them avoiding brain injury.
The first decrease in the occurrence of motorcyclist fatalities since the original repeal occurred when the universal helmet law was reinstated in Louisiana. These results support the supposition that the decrease in fatal motorcycle crashes in Louisiana after the helmet law was reinstated was directly impacted by the law change.
Nationally, there is a relationship between the passage and repeals of helmet laws and the number of registrations. As a greater proportion of the population was not required to wear a helmet, so did a greater number of motorcycles become registered. The relationship has been used as an argument for why fatalities increase following repeal of helmet laws. However, further analysis suggests that regardless of this relationship the lack of a helmet requirement is still related to fatalities well beyond what might be expected from an increase in registrations.

References:

http://www.abateofmichigan.com/