Two Wheel Oklahoma

Trailer for First Episode

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 11:09:00 +0000

We've been working hard on researching out-of-the-way destinations, writing scripts and creating storyboards for upcoming episodes of Two Wheel Oklahoma. Then, in between all that, we're still soliciting sponsors to underwrite the production costs for a full season.

But all that hard work goes on behind the scenes, unnoticed by the general populace. I know many of you would love to see some finished product!

So here's a little teaser for everyone out there who's taken an interest in our little travel show project. It's just a few minutes taken from our first episode, shot last January along State Highway 20 and Claremore. Consider it a thank you for your continued interest and support.

We hope you enjoy it.

Watch the Trailer

New Date for 2009 Ride to Work Day

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Sat, 30 May 2009 00:21:00 +0000

The 18th annual Ride To Work Day will be held Monday, June 15.

Ride to Work is a a non-profit organization advocating and supporting the use of motorcycles and scooters for transportation, and providing information about everyday riding to the public.

Ride to Work Day helps demonstrate how these vehicles make parking easier and help traffic flow better. Studies have shown that across equal distances, commuting motorcyclists reach their destinations in less time than those using automobiles, that motorcycles and scooters consume less resources per mile than automobiles, and that they take up less space on roads. Motorcycle and scooter riders seek improved employer recognition and support for this form of transportation, and more public and government awareness of the positive value of riding.

A weaker economy is causing many commuters to turn to motorcycles and scooters to save money on transportation. These new everyday riders are finding cycles and scooters to be an economical, efficient and enjoyable way to get to work and around town. Because of the world-wide depression, this year is expected to be the largest Ride to Work Day demonstration ever, according to Ride to Work.

According to the United States Census Bureau and the Department of Transportation, over eighty million cars and light trucks are used for daily commuting on American roads, and about 200,000 motorcycles and scooters are a regular part of this mix. On Ride To Work Day, the practical side of riding becomes more visible as a larger number of America's 8,000,000 cycles are ridden to work.

Tulsa Bike Nights

noreply@blogger.com (B Mathison) — Fri, 22 May 2009 16:42:00 +0000

..and all over Oklahoma!

'Tis the season for bike nights- and the schedule is really heating up! Scroll down for a list of Oklahoma Bike Nights listed by city.

Two Wheel Oklahoma will be showing up at some of the local bike nights, shooting some video and handing out some cool swag!

We will be working with Cycle Gear and Roadhouse Motorsports, showing up at a couple different spots in Tulsa. And thanks to the Roadhouse Motorsports Girls who helped us toss out goodies to the crowd at Twin Peaks last night!

Watch for us out at Twin Peaks restaurant on Thursdays, a show that typically draws over 150 bikes every week. It's a pretty cool bike night because you see all sorts of rides- cruisers, sportbikes, even a few scooters.

On Mondays we'll head up 71st Street to Freddie's. It's quickly growing into a large event. Perfect way to kick off your week!

Below we've listed all the bike nights we could find info on. If you know about another one we invite you to post a comment and let everybody know about it. You just might see us there!

Oklahoma Bike Nights
Tulsa
Mondays-
Freddie's Frozen Custard, 71st near Mingo
Wednesdays-
Schlotzsky's, 101st & Memorial
Joe's Crab Shack, 61st & Memorial
Thursdays-
Twin Peaks, Memorial at 71st
Hooters, 61st and Memorial

Oklahoma City
Mondays-
Joe's Crab Shack, NW Expressway
Tuesdays-
Sliders
Kona Ranch Steak House
Hooters Northwest
Wednesdays-
Spinozi's
Wormy Dog Saloon
Charley's Last Stand
Thursdays-
Hooters South
Cross-Eyed Moose

Norman
Tuesdays-
Santa Fe Cattle Company, I-35

Lawton
Tuesdays-
Chele's Club, 609 S. Sheridan

Guthrie
Thursdays-
Rockway Bar

Chickasha
Tuesdays-
Eduardo's

Did we miss one?
Let us know!

2009 Osage Beach Rally Update

noreply@blogger.com (B Mathison) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 18:47:00 +0000

The third annual Precious Moments Tour stormed ashore at Osage Beach, Missouri on May 15-17, 2009. Once again our headquarters was the Tan Tar A Resort and we visited the Cave Restaurant (coming soon) outside Richland and enjoyed lunch at Gary's Place in Lebanon.

We've posted a few photos online...

Big thanks to all the great folks who helped sponsor the 2009 event. Our gracious sponsors provided some great door prizes and valuable gift certificates!

BMW of Oklahoma

New Enough

Action Powersports

K&N Yamaha

Arrrg t-shirts

Cycle Gadgets

Places 2 Ride

Victory Leather

Empire Motorcycle Covers

Fox Creek Leather

Gear Selection

noreply@blogger.com (B Mathison) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 19:57:00 +0000

After receiving a couple communication devices that we could use from bike to bike, I thought we were doing great. They worked great, came through crystal clear and really made our job easier while filming. We even did a review on the Cardo Scala Rider Q2 here. What could possibly go wrong?!?

I found out exactly what could go wrong a few weeks ago while out road testing a bike on some country roads. Coming around a left hand corner at approx. 30mph, I lost the rear end, falling on my left side. First assessment: things hurt, I couldn't stand up, let alone walk and had the wind knocked out of me. Shouldn't be that big of a deal. In my 40+ years of riding experience, I have had my share of exciting get-offs, breaking a few bones along the way. To be honest, at that point, I was more worried about the bike than myself. I always wear the correct gear and this time was no different.

After getting checked out, I later discovered that I had shattered my left collarbone into many, many pieces, cracked a left shoulder blade, cracked my left hip/pelvis and broke a bone in my right hand. Hmmm... It seems that I can slide down the track at 100mph, but was not very good at this "falling over going slow" maneuver.

The collarbone is the reason I am writing this today. I always go back and figure out exactly what I did wrong to cause the crash and also how I broke my own body parts. I kept coming back to my collarbone and wondering how I could have broken it so badly just tipping over at that speed. I have broken collarbones before a few times, but I was only still moving at about 20mph by the time I hit the ground this time. Oh well, I just chalked it up to putting on a few more years.

That was until I was swapping out my communicator from my old helmet to the new one. As I looked down at the old one sitting at my feet, it hit me. It was the communicator that was hanging down below the helmet on the left side, almost a full inch and just happened to line up with my collarbone! Damn.

The helmet was relieved upwards on the side (possibly for that very reason) but I had attached this device in the exact spot that would contact my collarbone if I tilted my head far enough to the left side. I should have noticed it when I attached it to my helmet, but it never crossed my mind.

I have moved the mount on my new helmet up to the side and used Velcro to attach it instead of the brackets supplied with the Cardo kit. Besides moving it up, out of harms way, I'm hoping that the Velcro will let go in case of an emergency.

I take my gear seriously and would never ride without it. I know it won't save me from everything, but it sure increases my odds and I like that. This time I learned that I made the mistake of second guessing the design of a great helmet (Shark RSI) and I paid the price.

Good news is, I learned something.

And I heal quickly.

Oklahoma Takes Lead on Lead Law

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 12:31:00 +0000

Oklahoma lawmakers are proposing a resolution this week to help reign in a new law limiting lead in childrens products.

Last year reaction to Chinese toys containing lead resulted in the passage of a Federal regulation named the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. The gist of the law is to regulate the lead content of products intended for children under age 12. But the regulation has been applied to a wide array of products- including motorized vehicles.

Since February 10th, the date the regulation went into effect, the 50cc motorcycle and ATV business has essentially come to a standstill. We visited with one local dealer in Tulsa to find out how this regulation is affecting businesses in Oklahoma.

Precious Moments Tour 2009

noreply@blogger.com (B Mathison) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 02:27:00 +0000

It all started with a side-trip.

During a Spring motorcycle trip to Lake of the Ozarks we made an innocent pit stop in Carthage, Missouri. Pretty soon we found ourselves strolling the grounds of the Precious Moments Park.

We were so moved by the disturbing cuteness we decided to make it an annual event!

The third annual Precious Moments Tour will storm ashore at Osage Beach on May 15-17, 2009. All bikes are welcome, but be prepared for some great curves and scenery!

The event is a chance for motorcycle riders to shake off their cabin fever and ride the endless twisties around Lake of the Ozarks and central Missouri. Headquarters will be the Tan-Tar-A resort complex in Osage Beach, Missouri, with a nearby State Park for camping accommodations. Resort accommodations may not be the typical place to hold a motorcycle rally, but last year we, along with many other motorcyclists discovered the Tan-Tar-A Resort was a great place to hang our hats between blasts down the two-lanes.

The best part is food, drinks and a pool are all within walking distance. Instead of riding into more populated parts we found the convenience of walking downstairs for libation was not only convenient, but safer too. Advance registration by April 30th is only $15, or $20 on-site, and includes an event T-shirt.

This event will be a casual gathering. Riders can follow suggested routes, ride with groups or explore on their own. Each evening we'll gather back at Tan-Tar-A for dinner, drinks and bench racing. On Saturday we'll give away door prizes and award the "winner" the coveted title of Most Precious Moment.

Register Now

Options? We've got options.
There are plenty of optional accommodations near the resort. And for the rough and rugged set there's Lake of the Ozarks State Park just across the highway.

Nearby Hotels

Season One Trailer

noreply@blogger.com (B Mathison) — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:26:00 +0000

We have started work on a trailer for the first season of Two Wheel Oklahoma.

So far the results are looking fantastic with the help of Jason Burks and crew of Retrospec Films. Dustin Staiger of Frontline Group is producing this initial preliminary trailer.

The plan is for production of the first episodes of Two Wheel Oklahoma to begin in April and air later this year.

Oklahoma City H.O.G. Event

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:59:00 +0000

Here's some info forwarded to us from the Harley Owners Group (HOG) about their upcoming event in Oklahoma City on June 26-27, 2009.

H.O.G. Members and one guest are invited to help us celebrate a party 26 years in the making! Activities at CLUB H.O.G. ® OKC will include musical entertainment on two stages, stunt and drill teams, MDA fund-raising activities, demo rides on 2009 Harley-Davidson® and Buell® models – including the racy new XR1200, a Ride-In Show marking the eighth presentation of the Willie G. Award, the H.O.G. Wall of Ink tattoo contest, service seminars, H.O.G. Garage, The Chapter Parade of Flags, two local dealerships, FLEX - H-D’s new product trailer, H.O.G. & Co., the Biker Mania Vendor Mall, the H-D Traveling Museum, Kiddie demo rides, a street party in Bricktown, early bird party at H-D World, H.O.G. Membership Benefits & Services, free motorcycle parking, and much, much MORE.
More details...

Sounds like a great event. Registration opens in February and costs less if you're a HOG member.

Oklahoma Toy Runs

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 19:35:00 +0000

Bikers across the Sooner State are gearing up for the holidays and the annual slate of toy runs. Here are some notable dates to make note of...

December 7th is the date for Tulsa's first big toy ride- the Salvation Army Toy Run. The ride starts at 1:00 pm from 61st and Riverside Drive. Details>

Tulsa's 29th annual ABATE Toy Run is scheduled for December 14th. I say "scheduled" because last year some extreme weather and falling trees postponed the ride. We're hoping the only thing out of the ordinary this year is the route- it's backwards! For the first time any of us can remember the ride does not begin on Riverside. Line-up begins at 10:00 am on Tulsa's Expo Square. Details>

Up the turnpike, that same day, the folks in OKC will also be hauling toys for the kiddies in the 16th Annual Oklahoma City Toy Ride. Details>

And if you're down south don't miss the Big Texas Toy Run on December 21. It sports three different rides starting from different points in the DFW Metroplex. Details>

For more upcoming toy runs across the U.S. visit the motorcycle events calendar on Places2ride.com. And as always, check our Events Page for upcoming motorcycle events in Oklahoma and surrounding states.

Stone Bluff Winery Open House

noreply@blogger.com (B Mathison) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 15:50:00 +0000

Ride To Stone Bluff Cellars
Come join the T.W.O. crew for a ride out to one of our favorite spots. Grab a friend and enjoy beautiful scenery along rolling highway with some fellow riders. Not to mention that the owner of this winery and some of his crew are avid motorcyclist!

Sunday, November 16
Ride to Haskell, Oklahoma
Meet at Roadhouse Motorsports at 12:30
Ride at 1:00
RSVP to 918-250-1400
Or sales@roadhousems.com

Test Ride: Moto Guzzi 1200 Norge

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:42:00 +0000

For our first motorcycle road test in this series we wanted something a little unique. Moto Guzzi's new entry into the sport-touring category seemed like a perfect choice. European chic, V-twin grunt and large carrying capacity. Advertised as the "gran turismo" motorcycle for the 21st century by the factory- we set off to find out just what that really means.

watch high quality version

The Moto Guzzi Norge is a 1200cc twin with a six speed and shaft drive. The Norge was introduced in 2006. Originally the factory claimed the bikes would be outfitted with a GPS as standard equipment. That idea didn't fly, but they do come with other neat bits, like hard luggage.

We hope you enjoy our video review of the Norge, feel free to click the Comments link below and post your opinion.

What bike would you like to see us review?
If you'd like to suggest one contact us!

Oklahoma ABATE Annual

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 00:59:00 +0000

The Oklahoma branch of ABATE will hold their annual shindig next month. Here's the info they provided:

ABATE of Oklahoma State Party
October 3-5, 2008
Lahoma, OK

Come "Party with a Purpose" and CELEBRATE RIDER FREEDOM!
*Bike Games! *Bike Show!
*People Games! *Tattoo Contest!
*Live Bands! *Poker Run!
*Late-Night Fun!

Lahoma is 7 miles West of Enid.

Glad they mentioned that... I'd never heard of Lahoma!

Road and Ride Tests

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:50:00 +0000

Checking out the Moto Guzzi Norge in Osage CountyLast week we began working on a new segment we hope makes the final cut. It will be a series of road tests of various motorcycles- new and used. We want to know what bikes you want us to shake down!

I realize there's nothing new about road testing a motorcycle- lots of magazines and TV shows do it. But we hope to put a different spin on it.

We had originally glossed over the idea because of the lack of "local content." But then we realized that road tests could be presented in a way that might add a little local flavor. Put a local spin on things that might be lacking from the Mainstream Media. Lemme'splain...

Ooops.

Road testing can get expensive.
Brad and Paul returned from Osage County with mementos from the local constable.
Damn.
First off, the bike being tested has to be provided by a local source, right? No point in testing a bike you can't buy in these parts. That one's obvious. But then you could also ride local roads to do the road test. It's cool to read about carving canyons on the latest hot rod- but carving hollers in Delaware County might be closer to real life. How does it handle cattle guards? Bet you won't see that on Steel Dreams! We decided to go for it and jump into the Motorcycle Road Test business.

Your Turn
We can use your input. Help us decide which bikes to put through their paces.

Here's the deal- we're going to shoot two kinds of ride reports, new bikes and "contemporary classics." We're open to nominations for both. Comment on this post to offer your two cents. Tell us one new ride and one old bike you'd like to see on the show. So easy.

I promise nothing- but we'll consider all your suggestions.

Hot Weekend for Biker Boyz

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 01:41:00 +0000

We braved the 100 degree heat this weekend to attend the 5th annual Biker Boyz Weekend in Tulsa. This event has grown each year and attracts riders from across the nation. For 2008 the festivities were held at Expo Square, with headquarters and lodging once again at the Doubletree Downtown.

The exhibits featured some unique customs and must-have sportbike hardware. There was even a bikini contest on Saturday to take your mind off the mechanical. But the real fun was happening outside under the scorching July sun.

Some of the best regional stunt riders were showing their stuff for the crowds. We just knew you'd want to see some so we here's a sample....

watch high quality version

We're already looking forward to 2009.

Scooteristas

noreply@blogger.com (B Mathison) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:50:00 +0000

There is an old saying with motorcyclists that have been around for a while. "There are two types of riders. Those that have crashed and those that will crash."

With the current rise in gas prices, I am seeing more and more people using motorcycles and scooters for their daily commute and general running around. I think this is great to see. The two-wheeled version of gettin' around is much easier to navigate through traffic, making your commute quicker, easier on the wallet and great for the environment. I welcome all the new riders to our two-wheeled "community". I honestly don't understand why more people don't choose the two-wheeled way of getting around.

What does concern me is seeing so many riders on scooters (as well as motorcycles) with no protective gear whatsoever (I know this is their right, so please, no e-mails explaining that to me).
Is there some unwritten rule that people do not change lanes into riders on scooters or turn left in front of them? I cringe, every time I see somebody zipping through an intersection on a scooter wearing no protective gear, no caution of even looking around as they go through their green light. I have learned long ago, that anybody can hit you at almost any time. Plain and simple, most drivers do not see you on the road and are usually doing many other important things than just driving (cell phone, makeup, eating, yelling at kids, etc.). I have survived as long as I have because I know that I am invisible and that everybody is trying to run over me. This may not always be politically correct to say, but it has worked so far. Most new riders would know some of these basic rules if they did their research and took some of the training classes available. The current MSF course is a great one that I highly recommend.

And this is where things get a little strange. I have talked to a few scooter riders that believe that they do not have to get an "M" (motorcycle) endorsement on their driver's license to legally operate a scooter on the public roads. Even heard rumors that some scooter shops have told this to their customers. I hope that is not true, but...
To put it simply, in Oklahoma - "Scooters which are built and designed for highway travel are recognized like motorcycles". This means that they are titled and registered just like any other motorcycle (and car for that matter) and must follow the same rules and regulations. In other words, you must have a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license to operate one on a public road. And just as important, you must get as much training as possible. Just like anything else in life. The more you train or practice, the better you are at it. It is one thing if you can't throw strikes on the local softball team. End result; you walk a few batters. It is another if you aren't very good at riding a motorcycle. End result; at best, you crash and get to learn a lesson.

If you are a rider that doesn't have an "M" on your license, get one, it's easy. If you don't think you should wear any type of protective gear... well, I guess that is your choice. Although, you probably will, after you go down once and commence to sliding and tumbling down the pavement if you are still riding.

Brad

Ride to Work Day Update

noreply@blogger.com (B Mathison) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 13:02:00 +0000

Update July 16, 2008- The weather was perfect this morning for our Ride to Work Day breakfast. All morning a steady stream of motorcycles flowed in and out of the parking lot in front of the Savoy Restaurant.

Thanks to the media covering the event today- including Fox 23 Daybreak, KRMG Radio, Urban Tulsa, the Tulsa World and KJRH Channel 2.
photos...

Resources for the potential motorcyclist...

Get your motor runnin'...

Tulsa mayor, Kathy Taylor, has officially proclaimed July 16, 2008 as Ride to Work Day. Riding your motorcycle or scooter to work on this day will help show Tulsans that motorcycles aren't just for recreation. We also hope it will increase driver awareness and make the roads safer for bikes and scooters.

Ride to Work Breakfast
To help everyone get their ride to work started right, we're having a rider's breakfast on the morning of July 16th at the Savoy Restaurant, 6033 S. Sheridan Road. Join us from 6:00 am to 10:00 am and meet fellow two-wheeled commuters. Ride in and get a free cinnamon roll with your breakfast (quantities limited).

Ride to Work Day helps demonstrate how motorcycles and scooters make parking easier and help traffic flow better. Studies have shown that across equal distances, commuting motorcyclists reach their destinations in less time than those using automobiles, that motorcycles and scooters consume less resources per mile than automobiles, and that they take up less space on roads. Motorcycle and scooter riders seek improved employer recognition and support for this form of transportation, and more public and government awareness of the positive value of riding.

Thanks to Vespa of Oklahoma on Brookside and K & N Motorcycles for helping us make this possible.

Official proclamation from Mayor Kathy Taylor

Annual Ride to Work Day

noreply@blogger.com (B Mathison) — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 01:41:00 +0000

The 17th annual Motorcycle and Scooter Ride to Work Day is Wednesday, July 16th. Every year on this day over a million workers commute via motorcycles and scooters to demonstrate the positive benefits of our efficient vehicles.

According to the United States Census Bureau and the Department of Transportation, over eighty million cars and light trucks are used for daily commuting on American roads, and only about 200,000 motorcycles and scooters are a regular part of this mix. On Ride to Work Day the practical side of riding becomes more visible as a much larger number of America’s 8,000,000 cycles are ridden to work.

That is the official blurb. Now for our take.

As fuel prices continue to go up, I am seeing more motorcycles (and scooters) on the road during the normal business-day commute. This is good for a couple of reasons. Of course it saves on fuel and puts a couple dollars back in your pocket. It also helps to cut emissions to the only earth that we have. And just as important to me, is that by putting more motorcycles on the road, it makes a few more people aware of them.

Maybe by helping to promote and getting the word out about this annual event, we can get more bikes on the road. I know I would rather be running through traffic with a bunch of bikes rather than trying to navigate around the 6,000 lb SUVs piloted by cel phone talking, late to work people that I normally see. I actually rode by a young girl last week "driving" through traffic on a busy highway (Hwy 169) that had one foot out the drivers window and was looking down texting with both hands. But that's another story.

If for no other reason, it adds a little enjoyment to a normal day to be able to get in a ride on the way to work and on the way home. So try it, you might like it.

We are currently talking with the Mayor's office and trying to get some city involvement. If all goes well, we will have incentives to ride to work and Tulsa will be the first city in Oklahoma to endorse the National Ride to Work Day.

Remember, motorcycles are not just meant for the weekends.

Many Precious Moments in 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:50:00 +0000

What a blast!

The shindig in Missouri this weekend was a really great time. A small but enthusiastic group of riders from as far away as Iowa and Oklahoma City made the trek to Osage Beach. The hardware was a mixed bag of BMWs, retro Hondas, a Ducati, a Buell and a Bandit.

The highlight of the weekend was touring some backroads with Scott Hubbard and getting to see his collection of bikes and vintage BMWs. Afterwards we hit the Elbow Inn on old Route 66 for some BBQ in the shade.

Saturday evening at Tan-Tar-A we gathered on the patio for door prizes and awards. Chris Ternes received a belated award for not tightening his oil drain plug before last year's ride. In "honor" of that slippery moment on I-44 the Most Precious Moment Award features a drain plug with a reminder on a greasy post-it note. The 2008 recipient was James Saar for a horizontal pirouette he performed near Spavinaw on Oklahoma Highway 20.

Many thanks to all of the sponsors who helped make this year's event a great success...

Brookside Motorcycle Company

Green Country Cycle City

1888FastLap.com

The Kinetic Playground

Places 2 Ride

Ride Oklahoma

We have a limited number of event shirts still available.
Order Now

Riding Solo

noreply@blogger.com (B Mathison) — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 13:32:00 +0000

My addiction to Motorcycles started before I reached the ripe age of 5 years. I was one of the lucky ones that had a father that rode and believed that his boys should do the same. From that time, I have ridden all across this country in the dirt, the sand, dried lake beds, racetracks, of course the street and a few places I probably shouldn't mention. Of that time riding, I would guess that I spent 75 percent of that riding with friends and/or family.

Riding solo is more different than most “pack riders” would realize. When riding with others, it allows for a couple of things.

One of the first is Safety. If there is a mishap along the way, and I have had my share, you have somebody you can rely on to help you back up, call for help, explain to you where you are and what your name is, etc. (thanks again Rex). I made it a habit to always have somebody along when taking off in the dirt, whether it be rompin' through the woods or on a Motocross track. I crash far too often in those environments to not have somebody around. It's just what I do. I crash, I get up and try not to do it again.

Another is being able to share the whole experience with others both during the ride and after. To benchrace at the end of the day over drinks and a good cigar is not something to be brushed off lightly. I try to attend as many rallies as I can, that involve beautiful roads, new places and friends that I only get to see a couple times every year.

Of course on the other end of that "riding with others" is the testosterone fest that can go on. I see that happen far too often on the street. It might happen in the dirt, but usually, everybody is crashing anyway, so it's hard to tell. I am older now and have used up most of my testosterone. When you don't have much left, you tend to ration it out more carefully.

I swore off riding with large groups a few years back because of my last ride with a large group. The group numbered somewhere around 25 - 30 and had the full mix of bikes, abilities and experience and ended with more than a few broken bones, broken bikes and lots of locals in their freshly pressed uniforms showing up. This same expericence had happened to me before, but something finally clicked in my brain that day and I realized that this was not conducive to my whole plan of not donating any more of my paychecks to the local doctors. That cured me. Now, I stick to groups of 5 - 6 riders that I know.

Now for the other 25 percent of the time. A couple of years back, I decided that I have donated my fair share to the local Orthopedic Surgeons and sold all bikes with knobbies on them. I was not trying to cut off the local doctors completely, but merely cut back on that part of my spending.

Now I try to keep it on the pavement. In the past few years, I have discovered traveling farther than my usual 200 to 300 mile days and have been wandering a little more and attended rallies in other states. Of course, this had me showing up at a rally or two alone, due to the other 4 or 5 guys bailing at the last minute after talking me in to going.

I have to admit that riding alone has its own advantages. There are the obvious ones, such as stopping when you feel like it, riding as slow or fast as you want, detours on a whim, etc., but there is also one that I had forgotten about.

I was reminded of this last one when returning home from a 1,200 mile trip that ended up with the last 300 miles in the rain. I think a friend of mine put it best when I was trying to explain it to him after that trip. He thought it was "that whole Cowboy spirit". Back when a guy would saddle his horse and mosey across the country in search of "who knows what". Riding solo is more different than most “pack riders” would realize.

Riding alone adds to the sense of adventure. If you break down, run out of gas or get lost, there is nobody there to back you up. You have to rely completely on yourself.

You also get to think. I do not listen to music or have my phone wired to my helmet, instead, I choose earplugs. Most people would be surprised how many brain cells are active when you ride across this country only hearing the muted exhaust of your own trusty steed. In today’s world of constant communication with everything and everybody, silence can be golden.

Got something to figure out? Burned out at work? Throw a change of clothes in a bag, strap it to your bike and leave in a general direction. Everything will become very clear. It might take a few hundred miles or maybe a few thousand, but you will know when it happens.

When you return and people ask you why you are smiling and remark that you seem different, then you can try to explain this to them.

Time to Tour Missouri

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 14:39:00 +0000

sponsors...

First off, thanks to the sponsors who are helping make the second Precious Moments Tour possible. Their names are proudly displayed on your right. We've also provided a link to their websites for your convenience.

Precious Moments Tour
May 16-18, 2008
Lake of the Ozarks

Lake of the Ozarks is about 90 miles north of Springfield, MO. The weekend is fast approaching but it's not too late to register. Registration gets you the ubiquitous event T-shirt, our handy route sheet and the chance to win coveted awards most motorcyclists can only dream of. Advance registration (before May 15) is only $10 and on-site will be $15. Cheap.

Our headquarters will be the Tan-Tar-A Resort in Osage Beach, MO. The resort offers a wide range of conveniences within walking distance- a coffee shop, bar, water park and restaurants ranging from Burger King to a full buffet. The basic rooms offer two double beds and a sleeper sofa. Tan-Tar-A offers a special $99 rate for those staying three nights. Otherwise choose a "non-lakeview" room in the Resort Complex and the rate will be $109 per night. Reserve online or call 1-800-826-8272.

Alternate accommodations can be found in Osage Beach. One is the Hawk's Nest Lodge at $79.00 for 2 people per night. (573) 348-1741 for reservations.

The other we found is the Country Hearth Inn for $79.99 – 2 people per room. Call(573) 365-4566 to reserve a room.

Camping and rustic cabins are also available at nearby Lake of the Ozarks State Park.

Upcoming Area Motorcycle Events

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 12:19:00 +0000

Here's a current list of motorcycle-related events in Oklahoma and surrounding states. Bookmark this page for quick access to future info!

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Event listings courtesy Places2ride.com

New Tulsa Dealers for European Brands

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 18:16:00 +0000

Ever since longtime Tulsa dealer Atlas Cycle closed its doors last year the rumors have been flying about who will pick up those orphaned European lines they carried. Suddenly there was no local outlet or factory support for Aprilia, BMW, Ducati, Moto Guzzi or Triumph. Not to mention all those forgotten marques that used to grace their showroom: Cagiva, Moto Morini, Husqvarna or MZ.

Atlas owner, Ken Johnson, decided to retire in 2007. He opened the business in 1965 in a storefront on Cherry Street. Over the years Ken carried all the obscure motorcycle, scooter and mini-bike brands. Eventually the shop moved to 11th Street just east of Sheridan.

Paul Rogers of Brookside Motorcycle Company

Kathy King of Polaris Outdoors

Just about every dealer in T-Town phoned up Triumph. But most of the conversations ended early- Triumph and their Eurocentric leanings forbid selling alongside Japanese bikes. For BMW and Ducati the most likely candidate appeared to be the Oklahoma City dealer, having already stormed ashore in Brookside with their Vespa shop.

The latest news is some new faces have popped on to the scene, and we're optimistic it's good news for local riders!

Early this year Brookside Motorcycles on Peoria picked up the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi lines. This shop started out as a pre-owned and consignment shop, later bringing in the Johnny Pag chopperettes. They also expanded their showroom last Fall (albeit not their parking lot unfortunately) to make room for the Italian two-wheelers. I spoke with the owner, Paul Rogers today and he assured me that the appropriate signs were on the way. However he would not comment on two other European brands this editor thinks might be landing at his shop in the near future. Keep an eye out for their upcoming Vintage Cycle Meet on April 27th. BBQ and soda provided FREE from 11am-3pm.

Then later today we confirmed with the owner of Polaris Outdoors, Kathy King, that Tulsa's newest BMW and Triumph dealership will be Polaris Outdoors, soon to be known as Roadhouse Motorsports. In addition to Polaris four-wheelers and PWC this store sells Victory, the other American V-twin motorcycles. They are in the process of expanding their showroom and building a new service facility at their present location on US-169 near 61st Street. Kathy went on to say that they have a lot of cool events coming up this year, so watch this space or their website for more information.

Finding the Road Less Taken

noreply@blogger.com (Rex Brown) — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 16:31:00 +0000

Riding a motorcycle seems to bring out the explorer in us. I couldn't begin to count how many times I've glanced down a twisty lane and thought, "I wonder where that road goes?" I often detour to find out if I have the time.

Brad and I are often asked how we find our way around when exploring two-lane roads off the beaten path. Some people are surprised we don't have any GPS mounted on our motorcycles. On the road, I still rely on the "dead tree" style of maps, printed out before I leave, stuck in the top of my tank bag.

I also like to bring along a couple of maps. One is the good ol' Oklahoma state highway map. I usually pick up a few copies from the visitor center so I can fold and mutilate one to fit just right in my tank bag. The other map is one of the most valuable books I own: Roads of Oklahoma. This is a large format paperback atlas made up of USGS maps of Oklahoma. Each page is about 12 miles wide, so it gives you great detail of the landscape. It's easy to locate where you are by looking at the large state map on the back. The state is divided into segments and a big red number indicates what page you need to turn to.

Unfortunately it's not easy to find. It was originally published by Shearer Publications, but was recently acquired by Mapsco. Hopefully that means they'll be a little more plentiful soon.

A similar publication is offered by De Lorme. The Oklahoma Atlas & Gazetteer is quite similar. The main difference is DeLorme opted for topo maps, which I find a little harder to read. And locating the adjoining map above or below is more difficult because the small text is printed within the map itself, not in the margin like the R of O. But this book is much easier to find and available for many other states.

Either one is well worth bringing along on your next ride.

More of our favorite books, videos and gadgets...

Precious Moments Tour 2008

noreply@blogger.com (B Mathison) — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 14:34:00 +0000

Download Flyer (PDF)
Register Now
Precious What?

Places 2 Ride and Two Wheel Oklahoma are sponsoring the second annual Precious Moments Tour on May 16-18, 2008. Two Wheel Oklahoma will also be shooting video for an upcoming episode.

The event is a chance for motorcycle riders to shake off their cabin fever and ride the endless twisties around Lake of the Ozarks and central Missouri.

Headquarters will be the Tan-Tar-A resort complex in Osage Beach, Missouri. Resort accommodations may not be the typical place to hold a motorcycle rally, but last year we, along with many other motorcyclists discovered the Tan-Tar-A Resort was a great place to hang our hats between blasts down the two-lanes.

The best part is food, drinks and a pool are all within walking distance. Instead of riding into more populated parts we found the convenience of walking downstairs for libation was not only convenient, but safer too. Make your reservations now at www.tan-tar-a.com or call 1-800-826-8272.

This event will be a casual gathering. Riders can follow suggested routes, ride with groups or explore on their own. Each evening we'll gather back at Tan-Tar-A for dinner, drinks and bench racing. On Saturday we'll award the "winners" such coveted titles as Dirtiest Bike or Most Precious Moment.

Register Now
Advance registration is $10 or $15 on-site and includes one event T-shirt. Additional shirts available- same prices. To register now tell us about your bike, choose your shirt size and click Pay Now...

Registration for 2008 Event is Closed

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