Black Hills Iron Rally Edition 2013

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In the beginning ...

Bert Hood, Jack Hoel, Neil Hultman and Gene Sno. Photo courtesy of the Jackpine Gypsies

Over the years ...

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

Watching the hill climb event brings back fond memories for Strickland, who had posted record times for two STURGIS — Bill Strickland speaks for many in the motorcycle world when years.

“Records don’t stand for very long,” he says, “If the Rally were to close he said of the mark that has since falldown, I wouldn’t know what to do with en. myself the first two weeks He tries to attend one in August.”

Gypsies’ meeting per month.

Strickland who hasn’t Strickland also helps raise missed a Sturgis Rally sponsorship money for the since 1966 said all motor1/2-mile racing program. cyclists should see three Strickland recalled when things while in South the Sturgis Chamber of Dakota: Mount Rushmore, Commerce would host a the Badlands, and the picnic in City Park. He said Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. crowds got larger and a bit The 71-year-old Pierre resimore rowdy. Some poured dent started riding motorcyBill gasoline on the road, lit it on cles in 1965. fire and drove their motorcyStrickland Rally experiences for cles through the flames.

Strickland started in 1966, Voters in a citywide elecwhen he lived in Rapid City and betion during the early 1980s narrowly longed to the Black Hills Motorcycle decided to keep hosting the Rally. One Club. Those members competed in of the subsequent changes, however, hard-core racing against Sturgis-based was the closing of City Park.

Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club Then the Buffalo Chip Campground riders. opened east of Sturgis in 1983.

Strickland’s first motorcycle was a Strickland said the crowds continued to 1968 Triumph TR6. He later bought a grow, and all campgrounds benefited.

1971 Bonneville, which he still owns, Many famous people have visited along with four Harley-Davidsons.

Sturgis over the years. Strickland has Strickland’s Jackpine Gypsies involvemet the likes of Willie G and nationally ment began in 1981, when the club was ranked number 1 racer Chris Carr. short of help during the 1/2-mile racing “It’s one of the greatest events I’ve slate. He lived in Pierre at the time and ever been involved in,” Strickland said was a flagman that year. in describing the Rally. He enjoys the He learned how to set up a race in racing, friendships — everything about 1982 and asked Pierre’s AMA club if it the annual event that enjoys worldwide would help in Sturgis. Pierre’s club has acclaim in the motorcycling commudone corner work for the 1/2 mile since nity. then and also does this for Monday and He continues to ride around Pierre Tuesday short-track events. and belongs to a Harley Owners Group He comes to town primarily for the chapter. The group helps organize pok1/2-mile, hill climb, and short track er runs and other activities for local races. groups.

STURGIS — You are about to experience the largest motorcycle gathering in the world: The 2013 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Attended by nearly half a million enthusiasts from around the globe, Sturgis is the mecca of the motorcycle community.

It started from humble beginnings.

In 1936 Black Hills resident J.C. “Pappy” Hoel purchased an Indian motorcycle franchise, opening shop on Junction Avenue in Sturgis. The following year he founded the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club. By 1938 the Gypsies, with the help of local business owners, were hosting a “Gypsy Tour” with the purpose of introducing the scenic riding of the Black Hills to other motorcyclists, this annual event was the precursor to the Rally. The Gypsies also brought half-mile dirt track races to the Hills that same year, drawing in even more motorcyclists from around the country, motorcyclists who “Pappy” and his wife Pearl allowed to camp in the backyard of their

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home behind the motorcycle shop.

The 1939 Gypsy Tour hosted around 800 riders. Word spread about the curvaceous riding through the forested Black Hills and the warm hospitality of the locals – the event was destined to grow from the beginning. The Rally took a two-year hiatus during World War II, and during the 1950s the Gypsies added motocross and hill climbs to the offering.

Today the Rally is attended by nearly 500,000 people annually and the Jackpine Gypsies continue to host races throughout the summer and around seven races during the Rally.

So get on your bike and point your wheels to Sturgis to hang out with a few hundred thousand friends, some old and some you’ve yet to meet. Welcome to the 73rd annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

Enjoy the bikes, the Hills and the ride.

Letti Lister Publisher Black Hills Pioneer and Black Hills IRON

Next generation ...

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

STURGIS — The Rally’s racing schedule begins with motocross. This will highlight the fourth year of competition for Sturgis’ 13 year old Krista Milek.

Milek competes in four classes: super mini, 85 B, 250 B, and women’s open. She entered only two classes last year.

This is Milek’s first season of outdoor motocross. She has raced indoors the last three years but was unable to go outdoors because of a lack of money and other reasons.

“Outdoor is more fun,” Milek said in comparing the two motocross types. She explained outdoor tracks are bigger with longer straightaways and jumps that are more gradual than indoors.

Earliers this year Milek encountered a scare in her first outdoor race the weekend of June 9. A male opponent came up a bit short on the final jump. Milek said her

bike contacted his handlebars when it landed.

Neither rider was seriously injured.

What are Milek’s goals for this season? She would like a top-two finish in the 85 B class, to get through a day without crashing (which she said she usually does at least once), and clear larger jumps than she has in the past.

Milek enjoys racing at the Rally because of the big crowds. She anticipates competing against 10 or 12 others instead of two or three.

The Sturgis race is the Ryan Waterland Memorial in honor of the 20-year-old Sturgis native who lost his life in an Arizona plane crash in 2004.

Milek said of competing in that event, “It means a lot to me, because I knew who he was. From what I saw, he looked pretty fast.”

Motocross alone will be part of Milek’s racing life for the time being. She tried flat-track racing about two years ago but didn’t like it because racers kept going in circles.

Milek broke an arm during the North Dakota winter season. The arm healed four weeks later, but she was unable to compete in the outdoor season’s first event.

Bicycle riding, and occasional weighlifting, are part of Milek’s preparation routine.

“Last year, I didn’t know how to judge my speed on jumps,” Milek said. “I did smaller jumps but was slower in the corners.”

Milek said her goals this year include better starts.

Sturgis motocross racer Krista Milek soars through the air during a recent event. The 13-year-old is in her fourth year in the sport, but this is her first outdoor season.

Courtesy photo

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Black Hills Harley mechanic to retire after 45 storied years

By Adam Hurlburt Black Hills Pioneer

RAPID CITY — Veteran motorcycle mechanic Ron Hevel doesn’t suffer from multiple personality disorder, he revels in it: as daredevil racer, as rebel poster boy, as insatiable explorer, as enterprising motorcycle shop owner — he’s all of these and more. But his most well known persona is Ron Hevel as savior — as the difference between hitchhiking home with head hung low or riding off with pride into yet another sunset for four-and-a-half decades of bikers with busted steeds.

In his 45-year career in the motorcycle industry in the Black Hills, Hevel, of Rapid City, has done just about everything. But

now, at 69 years old, he’s eager to be just another guy on a motorcycle: the longtime mechanic at Rapid City’s Black Hills Harley-Davidson announced his plans to retire this year.

Hevel found his trade as a fulltime motorcycle mechanic in 1968, riding and racing in his spare time with legends like Clarence “Pappy” Hoel. And while he’s not as well known outside of the Black Hills as people like Pappy, Hevel is a legend in his own right.

“I wasn’t the best racer around, I was average, but I had a good time doing it,” Hevel said of his racing career, which found him racing flat track, short track, hill climbs and TTs (now called motocross) from about 1966 to 1971.

“And the (Sturgis Motorcycle) Rally was a different animal then. It was fun, because back in those days there weren’t that many people here. I remember sometime in the ‘70s people were going, ‘Oh my God, there’s going to be 10,000 people here,’ and they were freaking out. Back then (during the Rally), we would load a pickup with oil, oil filters, spark plugs, points and condensers and take them up to the old bar in Sturgis, and Bob, the guy that owned the bar, would sell them over the counter because so many people back then worked on their own bikes.”

Black Hills Harley Davidson, Hevel’s employer since the ‘60s, was different back then, too. Of course they were smaller, but for many years the seminal Harley shop in the Hills sold and repaired Yamahas, Kawasakis, and even BSAs alongside Milwaukee’s two-wheeled finest. Thus Hevel gained respect, appreciation and even admiration for metric bikes, making him a two-wheeled renaissance man through many years of heavy, often callous brand loyalism in the American motorcycle scene.

This also found Hevel at speed in the saddle of more than

After 45 years in the motorcycle industry, Ron Hevel of Black Hills Harley-Davidson is calling it quits. Pioneer staff photo

just fast Harleys. But it didn’t keep Harley Davidson from recruiting him as a poster boy.

That’s right, shortly after the close of his racing days, Hevel flirted briefly with a modeling career, posing with a brand new Harley-Davidson Aermacchi dirt bike, clad in a Harley-Davidson T-shirt, jean shorts and heavy sideburns, with his arm around an anonymous young woman in the 1973 Harley-Davidson catalog. Hevel said his co-model in that picture was a teenager that the photographers spotted on the street with her family on the day of the shoot. She agreed to pose for the photos, sheepishly embraced Hevel (who’s wife was sitting just off camera at the time), and, as far as Hevel knows, disappeared into eternal anonymity. To this day he has no idea who she is.

“I always was going to run that picture somewhere and ask, ‘does anyone know who this young lady is,’ because I have no idea if she’s still in the area,” he said.

Maybe it was the sideburns, but modeling didn’t stick for Hevel; turning wrenches did. But 45 years? Forty-five years of wrenching on motorcycles?

Some years back one of Hevel’s bosses at Black Hills Harley asked him how he could stand coming to work to do the same thing everyday for so long.

“I said, ‘we (Hevel and his fellow mechanics at Black Hills Harley Davidson) really don’t do the same thing,’” Hevel recalled. “Even though it looks the same, we’re challenged everyday by something different. Even though we’re working on the same bikes and doing that stuff, there’s always a challenge, there’s always something that comes along that’s totally different.”

And there’s been a lot of change in motorcycles since Hevel first took a shine to them in the mid-‘60s: the meteoric rise of the Japanese bikes, the appearance of fuel injection, electronic engine management, heated seats and grips, on-board GPS units, MP3 audio systems and more.

Hevel said watching the evolution of motorcycles, the motorcycle industry and Black Hills Harley-Davidson is largely what’s kept him going in the business for so long; that and the people.

Though much maligned over the years in popular culture, Hevel feels motorcycle folk are some of the warmest, most generous people out there. Case in point: charity work. From the casual Sunday rider to the hardest Hells Angel on the road, members of the two-wheel tribe are dedicated to helping those in need.

“People say, ‘Oh, motorcycle people, yuck,’ but I’ll tell you what, if there’s older people involved, veterans involved or children, I mean, they’re on board right now (to help out),” Hevel said.

And with 21 years of long-distance charity rides logged as an honorary member of the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club alone, Hevel is no exception to the rule. He also purchases and delivers holiday gifts to the See MECHANIC — Page 5

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Ron Hevel will retire from the Motorcycle industry after 45 years.

Pioneer photo by Wendy Pitlick

MECHANIC Continued from Page 4 elderly at nursing homes around the Hills each year with the Black Hills Area Bikers, among other such good-natured activities.

“There’s a lot of things that the motorcycle industry — not only worldwide, but here — does to make a difference,” he said.

“And so many of the owners of the dealerships don’t want to the publicity, but they do a lot.”

So what’s a hardcore grease-freak like Hevel going to do with all his newfound free time in retirement? Ride motorcycles, obviously.

Hevel has a bit of a touring addiction.

And like every red-blooded American worth his weight in, well, 30-weight, he’s

afflicted with the unrelenting itch to get out on the road and see what there is to see, do what there is to do, meet who there is to meet; to trace the asphalt veins of this great nation until he reaches its great, beating heart and then, of course, to blast down the arteries back home, where he’ll relax until that overwhelming itch flares up again. And for Hevel, the only right way to do it is out on the wind, on two wheels.

“My wife and I went to Yellowstone one time in the automobile, I don’t remember why, and we looked at one another and said, ‘this will never happen again,’” Hevel said. “On the bike you can see 360 degrees, you can smell the environment around you — good and bad — it’s a great way to travel. And what’s funny about a bike is, it’s

Why fight the big crowds?

• Sturgis Rally merchandise • World Famous Pinstriper Russ

Ron Hevel a mechanic with Black Hills Harley-Davidson is shown here in a Harley advertisement. Pioneer staff photo

• Capture the Moment Photography • Tattoos by Animal

like a magnet; you can pull in to a parking lot anywhere, and people won’t even look at you (when you’re in most cars), but if you pull in on a motorcycle, especially a Harley Davidson, people will come over and talk to you. We totally enjoy what we do, it’s a great way to travel, and we get to meet a lot of great people.”

Rack up the miles and smiles, Mr. Hevel, you’ve certainly earned it. …

But wait! What about the Rally, what about the industry, what about the satisfaction of resurrecting the freedom of the open road for so many of the mechanically lost with each successful repair?

“I’ll be around it,” Hevel said with a laugh. “I’ve learned one thing in life ... you never say never.”

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Wanderlust Spearfish man logs more than 100,000 miles on his 2010 Harley

Andy Young, 69, of Spearfish, has put more than 100,000 miles on his 2010 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Screamin’ Eagle — more than 33,000 miles per year.

Pioneer photos

by Adam Hurlburt

By Adam Hurlburt Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — There are few images more American than that of a man on a motorbike alone on the open road, exploring his country, expanding his territory.

It’s the pinnacle vision of freedom for many, canonized as such in pop-culture. In some subsets of motorcycle culture, miles mean respect — the more you’ve logged the more respect you’ve earned.

Andy Young has earned his fair share of

respect, racking up an estimated 600,000 miles of two-wheeled travel in his lifetime.

Sure, there are certainly many out there that have more motorcycle miles under their belts than Young, but the 69-year-old Spearfish resident is doing his best to close the gap.

In August 2010, Young, who’s been riding since 1968, purchased a brand new, 2010 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Screamin’ Eagle. And now, three years later, that bike has more than 100,000 miles

This photo shows Andy Young, second from right, and an earlier motorcycle along with some of his riding buddies at one of his favorite places to ride. On his current motorcycle, a 2010 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Screamin’ Eagle, he has logged more than 100,000 miles. Courtesy photo

Texas — again, mostly two-lane back on the odometer. That’s more than 33,000 roads. miles on the road per year.

“The four lanes are boring,” Young said.

But Young isn’t hunting down a num“I love history, and I try to hit most of the ber, — he’s hunting adventure. He, like so historic markers and things like that. You many others in this history of country — see America on the back roads.” has a serious case of wanderlust, and the Young does many of his trips solo. His Street Glide is his trusty steed. wife used to ride with him quite a bit, but “I’ve gone to Alaska on it maybe a now that she’s got her own trike, Young dozen times or more, which is probably logs most of his miles 7,000 to 8,000 miles either completely by his each time,” Young said. lonesome or in groups “I took a great trip with friends from all last summer, left here over the country. His (Spearfish) and went favorite places to ride down through Arkansas, are the Black Hills, of touring a lot of side course, Hyder, Alaska, roads, then I rode the and the Sierra Nevada Natchez Trace Parkway mountain range in all the way to its end California and Arizona. in Nashville, then Young said it’s hard went over to the Blue to put a finger on what Ridge Parkway, up to makes seeing the counShenandoah (National try by motorcycle so Park), then did three Andy Young special to him. days following the back “It just feels good,” roads in West Virginia, he said. “It’s very relaxthen up to Cincinnati, ing. You kind of forget everything else, sit then Chicago, then Green Bay, went east back and set your own schedule — if you to Sault St. Marie, Mich. I went around want to stop you stop, if you want to keep Lake Superior, down to Duluth, Minn., going you keep going.” and came home. Then I got a call at home And keep going he will. Young intends from two friends in Canada. They were to keep touring the country on his Street going to go around Lake Superior, so I Glide for as long as Randy and Nick went out and did it again.”

Kramer at Spearfish’s Dakota V-Twin can With trips like that, it’s no wonder the keep it running reliably, which he feels odometer on Young’s Street Glide reads will be a very long time. what it does. At the time Black Hills Iron “I fell in love with this one (his Street interviewed Young he’d just gotten back Glide),” Young said. “It may be my last from an eight-day, 3,300 mile journey to visit his 90-year-old uncle in San Antonio, bike.”

“The four lanes are boring. I love history and I try to hit most of the historic markers and things like that.

You see America on the back roads.”

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Three-wheel motion

Lehman Trikes back on the road

By Adam Hurlburt Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — 2012 was rough for Spearfish’s Lehman Trikes — founder John K. Lehman passed away in January, and the so-called “leader of the three world” announced it was closing its doors in March.

Things began to

This photo shows two Honda Goldwings gaining Lehman Trikes’ new independent rear suspension setup, or “Limited Lean Suspension (LLS)” as they call it. Pioneer photo by Adam Hurlburt

turn around in July when the company was purchased by California-based Champion Trikes for an undisclosed sum. By September the first group of completed Lehman Trikes shipped out since the temporary closure six months earlier. And now, the company is back on three wheels and picking up speed.

What a difference a year makes — 2013 finds Lehman Trikes introducing several models with independent rear suspension, or “limited lean suspension (LLS),” as they call it. These join their lineup of popular and proven solid axle trikes for 2013.

“We’ve been doing very well,” said Jamie Kreager, marketing director at Lehman Trikes.

“We did some business restructuring after reforming last year. We’ve added a number of new dealers and we’re continuing to grow.”

Kreager said Lehman Trikes and Champion Trikes will continue to operate as separate, “sister companies,” but that the two are “sharing ideas.”

“Together we’ve been in business for over 50 years,” she said. “We’re sharing tips and tricks and things we’ve done through the years.”

The Lehman Trikes factory will be open during the Rally, displaying its models as well as Champion Trikes models.

“We invite anyone and everyone who’s interested in learning about trikes to come see the new products, we’ll have the factory lot open and we will have dealers here, so if somebody wants to convert their bike or buy a new one, they can,” Kreager said.

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United she stands

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Designwraps brand CEO embarks on 36-month U.S. tour to promote American-made products

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Pioneer

USA — “Freedom is that feeling you get when you are out in the wind.”

That’s Joan Krenning’s personal definition of freedom, and it strongly relates to the message the small business owner is taking on the road as she embarks on a 36-month motorcycle tour of the United States.

Riding a 2013 Harley Davidson Street Glide that has been dubbed “Freedom Glide,” and is wrapped with Constitution graphics designed by Red Phoenix Marketing, including the words of the Bill of Rights, Krenning’s ride mission is to promote American-made products, and to remind people of what the phrase “United We Stand” really means. Krenning, the founder and CEO of American-made DesignWraps Brands, the premier manufacturer of Made in the USA headwear, knows what she’s talking about. She is eager to relay her message and hear the stories of others, as she stops at every licensed Harley-Davidson dealership in the lower 48 states.

Freedom in America is definitely something Krenning does not take for granted.

For most of the 1980s she was the proud owner of Loveland’s popular biker bar, The Buckhorn Tavern. Krenning lost the bar when she was arrested for drug possession in 1988. After serving some time in prison, Krenning emerged stronger, drug-free, and full of ambition. Deeming herself as “unemployable,” and battling a negative self image of herself because of past mistakes, Krenning turned to what she loved — sewing, and creating head gear for bikers.

It wasn’t long before Krenning started her business that allowed her to enjoy life on the road, meeting people, and thanking God for her freedom to do so.

“One of my fears is what we are doing to ourselves in America,” Krenning said. “Everybody likes to use the phrase, ‘United We Stand, Divided We Fall,’ but I really don’t think that one out of 1,000 Americans ever think about what that really means. ‘United We Stand’ means that as Americans we have to agree to disagree on issues, because that is the way it has always been. We have always supported our country.

Regardless of how we

believe, we still need to support each other financially by supporting American jobs, pray for each other, and respect each others’ personal beliefs for what they are.”

Her mission is simple: to promote the purchase of American Made products, to promote the Constitution, the Bill of Rights and to inspire hope in Americans.

“Patriotism is a devotion to one’s country.

I believe we are all Americans first. Before we are Republicans or Democrats, we are Americans. The definition of indivisible: Not divisible; unable to be divided or separated.”

As a “Made in the USA” manufacturer of quality head wraps for the last 23 years, Krenning said she has been frustrated over the last 10 years by the lack of Americanmade raw materials available to small manufacturers.

“When I first started, I could find U.S. made fabrics, and little by little all of the fabric companies that I had been dealing with went out of business and all of my alternatives came from China,” Krenning said. “I was bummed about that. I was still manufacturing products in the USA by employing Americans to cut and sew. Every hang tag or package was Made in the USA, but now I had to purchase fabrics that were not manufactured in this country.”

Krenning launched her ride across America, called the “Glory US-A Freedom Ride,” on Feb. 2, and she said it has been a dream-come-true for this biker who has been riding since 1986.

She loves the freedom of the open road, and she

Joan Krenning is taking a 36-month tour of the United States and will stop at every Harley-Davidson dealership in the lower 48 states to promote American-made products. Courtesy photos loves stopping and hearing the many stories from the people she meets, not just at the Harley dealerships, but in the truck stops, the banks, the coffee shops and every other place she stops.”

“I meet the most interesting people,” she said. “Then all of a sudden I am spending three hours at one place.”

That’s a problem Krenning said she needs to work out, since in order to make it to every licensed Harley Davidson dealer in 48 states over 36 months, she needs to stay on a tight time schedule. At the end of her trip, Krenning will have visited more than 700 dealerships and traveled more than 200,000 miles.

The best part of her trip, Krenning said, is the people.

“I didn’t plan on the conversation I had with the Korean

prisoner of war, or the woman I spent time with in the truck stop who needed prayer. I could name a thousand people I have met,” she said.

Not all of the stories people have shared with her have been happy ones, though.

Krenning said when she rode near the Gulf, she heard many stories of lives that were ravaged by hurricanes. “We got upset around the country when the hurricane hit and our gas prices went up,” she said. “Did we once ever think about what they were going through? They didn’t just have gas prices that went up. They lost whole industries. They lost their homes. They had kids who had to change schools and no roofs on their house for a year. I listened to all of these stories and was like ‘oh my gosh, how did you make it?’ At the same time, the people who seemed the happiest were the people who had the least.”

In addition to creating awareness about American-made products and what freedom means, Krenning is also riding to raise money for Laura Klock’s “Helping With Horsepower” proDesignwraps PAGE 10

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Designwraps from PAGE 8 gram, and the “Wounded Warrior Project.” She also plans to raise money and awareness for her newly formed Wraps of Hope Foundation.

In fact, Krenning said a small portion of all the proceeds from the sales of her DesignWraps Brand products would go toward the Wraps of Hope Foundation.

In addition to her custom wrap, which Krenning personally designed, “The Freedom Glide” motorcycle is also decked out with custom aftermarket parts that are 100 percent Made in America, provided by her sponsors: Klock Werks, RideWright Wheels, J&P Cycles, Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale, Yaffe’s Bagger Nation, MGS Custom Bikes, Danny Gray Seats, Roaring

Toyz, Wire Plus and Saddleman. American-made apparel sponsors are Churchill Gloves, Latus Motors Harley-Davidson, Inferno Googles and her newest sponsor, Fox Creek Leathers.

Krenning will be in the Black Hills throughout the Rally this year, and she is particularly excited about participating in this year’s Biker Belle’s ride. Interested persons may also follow her rides and experiences, as well as view her complete schedule at her blog at www.ladyroaddog.com, or www.designwraps.com.

Courtesy photo

Custer, SD August 2-11, 2013

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s e d i r Top in the

Black Hills

Pioneer Staff Reports SPEARFISH — With Sturgis situated in the heart of the Black Hills, the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is a venue for some of the best riding in the country. From long stretches of highway on the scenic plains, to curves and tunnels through the beautiful Black Hills, there is something for every kind of biker here. Here’s a list of our favorite rides.

Nemo Road

Off Highway 385 Rapid City to Brownsville

A nice, lazy ride through some of the less-populated parts of the Black Hills, Nemo Road offers amazing views, twisty turns and straight highway stretches that promise bikers entertainment and relaxation. Just one trip down this road and you will understand why Sturgis Rally veterans call this “The best kept secret in the Black Hills.” The Nemo Bar & Grill also offers bikers great food and cold drinks for a scenic break from the road that is filled with first-class hospitality.

Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway S.D. Highway 240, Badlands National Park

An approximate 30-mile ride, this highway cuts through the natural rock formations of Badlands National Park. A favorite of bikers who flock to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, this route also features natural grasslands that are filled with hundreds of different species of plants and wild animals. Scenic overlooks also offer great photo opportunities.

Custer State Park

13329 U.S. Highway 16A, Custer

Custer State Park isn’t just home to one of the largest free roaming buffalo herds; it’s so beautiful that the State Game Lodge served as the summer White House for President Calvin Coolidge in 1927. This 71,000-acre vacation paradise is home to abundant wildlife and buffalo herds, making it common to encounter a “Buffalo Jam” while driving in the park. Look for elusive elk, deer, big horn sheep, mountain goats and bands of begging burros.

Four distinct lodges offer accommodations to suit every family, from rustic and historic to elegant and upscale. All offer unique on-site activities, including Jeep rides to the buffalo herds, guided fly-fishing and chuckwagon suppers.

There are also endless camping opportunities in the park.

Crazy Horse Memorial

12141 Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse (near Custer)

Crazy Horse Memorial is the world’s largest sculpturein-progress, and frequent drilling and mountain blasts make each visit unique. When completed, Crazy Horse Memorial will stand 563 feet tall. The project was started in 1948 by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski and Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear to honor the heritage, tradition and culture of North American Indians. Its namesake, Crazy Horse, was a war leader of the Oglala Lakota tribe and a prominent leader in the Sioux resistance to white encroachment in the Black Hills. His bravery and skill are admired, and he is revered by the Sioux as their greatest leader. The complex surrounding the mountain carving includes the Indian Museum of North America, the Native TOP RIDE — PAGE 14

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Pioneer file photo

Belle Fourche to Sturgis via Bear Butte

Riding from Belle Fourche to Sturgis via Bear Butte can only be described as the open prairie or high plains ride. Imagine yourself back in the 1880s riding a spirited 4-legged horse. When departing from Belle Fourche traveling east bound on S.D. Highway 212, I recommend this route in the later part of the afternoon. You will then have the sun over your right shoulder. Make sure you have your gas tank filled completely, for you will have no opportunity to gas up between Belle Fourche and Sturgis city limits, unless you divert north to Newell at the junction of Highway 212 and Highway 79.

The speed limit on 212 is 65 MPH unless otherwise posted. Riding 212 can only be reckoned to riding your horse at full gallop across the plains, but staying at 60-65 MPH is the best speed to enjoy this fluffy cloud-studded, blue-sky route. Make a point of checking the weather forecast for prevailing winds. Prevailing winds in August are typically west to east which will give a very pleasant tailwind from Belle Fourche to Highway 79 southbound. When leaving Belle Fourche, the first major landmark will be the Belle Fourche reservoir on the left (north side of the highway). There are several small towns with cafes serving home cooked style food and cold drinks, well worth stopping. The smooth pavement and long radius curves of Highway 212 are punctuated by hills and rises, so for safety’s sake don’t attempt to pass on those blind curves. Take you time and enjoy the view to the South of the Black Hills. They look black from out on the prairie; that’s how the hills got their name. At the junction of 212 and 79 you’ll turn right heading toward Bear Butte. If you’ve had a tail wind, it’s now a crosswind so stay alert. Also watch for deer on the road. It’s almost a straight shot to the outskirts of the City of Sturgis. You will be able to enjoy an ever changing view of Bear Butte as it grows larger the closer you get. Just before passing Bear Butte you see the Broken Spoke Campground is on the left. Continuing another 5-6 miles, you’ll make a right turn onto Highway 34 (Westbound) passing Glencoe Camp-resort, the Full Throttle Saloon on the way into downtown Sturgis. Total distance is about 55 miles give or take a burnout.

— Buck Lovell

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Top Rides from PAGE 13 American Cultural Center, the Sculptor’s Studio and a 40,000-square-foot orientation center and theater. Nightly performances of a multimedia laser-light show spotlight American Indian culture using dramatic animations and a stirring musical score. In June, the Crazy Horse Volksmarch opens a 10K route to hikers that winds around the base of the mountain and up onto Crazy Horse’s outstretched arm. Korczak’s wife and family have continued the project and the Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation. An entrance fee is required to enter the memorial, which is open year-round, and good for one day of admission. Proceeds fund further development of the memorial.

Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway

U.S. Highway 16A/S.D. Highway 87, Custer State Park

This ride is so cool that it deserves mentioning apart from Custer State Park. A 70-mile drive that offers amazing views of the best the Black Hills has to offer. This scenic drive incorporates the Needles Highway (S.D. Hwy. 87) and Iron Mountain Road (U.S. Hwy. 16A). The Needles Highway features hairpin curves, drive-through tunnels, and massive granite formations that draw climbers from all over the world. Iron Mountain Road features pigtail bridges that were constructed in a corkscrew fashion, as well as drive-through tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore.

Lead-Deadwood

Separated by just three miles of highway, but forever joined in their rich history of mining and gaming, the Black Hills’ own Twin Cities offer something for everyone. Visit the Black Hills Mining Museum, Homestake Visitor’s Center or the Adams Museum to see the rich mining and old-west history of this section of the Northern Hills; relax for lunch or dinner at one of the many fine establishments in both towns; browse through the unique selection of gifts and supplies in Lead; or try your luck at a gaming table or slot machine in Deadwood.

But most importantly, residents of Lead-Deadwood are ever-cognizant of the Rally, and welcome the bikers with open arms. In Lead, bikers can enjoy vendors, entertainment and bike shows throughout the week and in Deadwood, bikers enjoy special parking privileges and other perks.

Pioneer photo by Steve Babbitt

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Wildlife Loop ride really wild

If you’re looking for a short ride in between other Rally-related activities, and you’re in the area of Custer State Park, Wildlife Loop Road is perfect. The road itself is very well maintained black top with almost no surprise potholes or other impediments to smooth riding. Don’t even think of going on this little sojourn with some kind of camera, even if it’s just the camera on your cell phone.

Wildlife Loop Road has a strictly enforced speed limit of 35 miles per hour, but if you are like most annual visitors here, you will be stopping frequently to either let the buffalo and other wild critters cross the road in front of you, or to just have a good long look. You won’t find many motorcycle rides that will give close-up views of wildlife as seen here. In many cases, these critters will hold up traffic as they stand blocking the pavement, stare in amazement at you and your vehicle. The rolling hills and

Belle Fourche

wide open grassland scenery is studded with many varieties of pine and other trees of all sizes making for very pleasant riding. Wildlife species to be seen here in Custer State Park include antelope, bighorn sheep, buffalo young and old, whitetail deer, elk, coyote, prairie dogs, and all manner of flying fowl including bald eagles and other raptor species. Custer State Park is home to one of the world’s largest buffalo herds. These buffalo live almost as they did before the West was tamed. Every year a roundup is held and buffalo harvested from the ever-growing herd.

Wild “begging” Burros live and play at the southernmost end of Wildlife Loop. While the ride along Wildlife Loop road is only 18 seemingly short miles and could take as little a 30 minutes to transit, you may find it taking just a little bit longer due to frequent stops to enjoy both the animals and the almost “as it was in the 1850s” view. I almost always do this ride both directions during the same day. No burnouts on this ride: it would only frighten the critters.

— Buck Lovell

The name “Belle Fourche” is French for “Beautiful Fork” because of its site on the “Forks” of Hay Creek, the Redwater River and the Belle Fourche River. Additionally, the quaint little town is known for its status as the geographical “Center of the Nation.” After the addition of Hawaii and Alaska to the United States in 1959, a point 10 miles north of Belle Fourche was named the official geographic center of the United States. The site was originally in Smith Center, Kansas, before it was moved to its new home in Butte County. Visitors can have their photo taken at the monument of a 21-by-40 foot compass rose made of South Dakota granite located at the Center of the Nation Visitor Center in Belle Fourche.

Cave is a regional gem tucked in the Black Hills.

Exploration is ongoing in this pristine underground labyrinth. Visit chambers decorated with calcite, nailhead and dogtooth spar crystals and other wonders like draperies, flowstone and stalactites. The monument’s surface trails and facilities are open free of charge. A fee is required for cave tours, which are ranger-guided and are moderately strenuous lasting about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The cave is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. except on holidays. Cave tours have been known to sell out in advance; therefore waiting times could be several hours. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead for tour availability and to reserve tickets. Visit www.nps.gov/ jeca for more information.

Jewel Cave National Monument

Native American Scenic Byway

U.S. Highway 16, 13 miles west of Custer

Located in the scenic Hell Canyon Ranger District, the ride to Jewel Cave is a gem in itself with scenic overlooks, hairpin turns and some wildlife sightings.

But once bikers get to the cave, they are absolutely encouraged to stop and stay awhile! Jewel Cave National Monument is not only the second-longest cave in the world, at more than 140 miles and counting, it is also one of the most structurally complex. Located a little more than an hour southwest of Rapid City, Jewel

This 305.8-mile route takes bikers through the rich history of our Native American population. This ride on the prairie cuts through the heart of South Dakota’s grass prairie through the heart of the Great Sioux Nation. The route takes travelers through Yankton, Crow Creek, Lower Brule, Cheyenne River and Standing Rock Sioux Tribal lands. Along the way, bikers will have a chance to see prairie dogs, pronghorn, deer, bison and elk.

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STURGIS

RALLY

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1:30 P.M. (Weigh/Sign in 12 Noon-1:15 p.m.)

FREE Lunch & LIve Music 12 Noon-1pm

WEIGHT CLASSES:

199 lbs. or Less SOFTBALL

200 lbs. or More All participants must be 18 years or older and compete dressed as is off their bikes.

HAULING THE HONEY

This event is a timed rope pull in which the participant must pull a motorcycle trailer with a motorcycle on it, while a female (the honey) is seated on the motorcycle. The trailer should travel 10 yards. Points to top five places.

HEAVY METAL This event is a shoulder press based on the successful amount of reps completed.

A motorcycle frame will be placed inside a power rack at the shoulder height of the participant while seated.

The individual will then press the frame overhead.

Points to the top five places.

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$50.00 day of event (May include t-shirt.)

CURLING BREWSKI’S

This event is a bicep curl based on the successful amount of curls the participant completes. Two kegs will be placed at the end of a straight bar. The participant will then bicep curl the bar with the kegs attached. Points to the top five places.

BURNING RUBBER

This event is a timed tire lift. The participant must lift and place six tires onto the center of a stationary pole, stacking one tire on top of the other until all six are stacked on the pole.

Points to the top five places.

HANDS OF STEEL

This is a timed grip contest. The participant must lift a motorcycle motor and hold the motor off the ground, gripping the motor, arms straight, for as long as possible.

Points to the top five places.

Athletics/Young Center

For more information contact Robert Dibonto at 605-642-6314 or Robert.Dibonto@bhsu.edu

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Top Ride from PAGE 14 Mammoth Site

1800 U.S. Highway 18 Bypass, Hot Springs

More than 26,000 years ago, large Columbian and woolly mammoths were trapped and died in a spring-fed pond near what is now the southwest edge of Hot Springs.

Discovered in 1974 while excavating for a housing development the Mammoth Site is the world’s largest Columbian mammoth exhibit and research center for Pleistocene studies. It is truly a unique and natural location for the state.

Bear Butte

Highway 79, Sturgis

It’s simply not possible to come to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and not see one of the Black Hills’ natural wonders – Bear Butte. But seeing it and experiencing it are two different things, and all bikers should take in the scenic beauty and spiritual feeling of this site, named “Mato Paha” (Bear Mountain) by the Lakota Sioux for its resemblance to a sleeping bear. This geological formation is one of several intrusions of igneous rock in the Black Hills that formed millions of years ago.

The mountain is sacred to many American Indian tribes, who go there to hold religious ceremonies to this day. Also, Bear Butte was once used by multiple tribes as a meeting point to discuss the advancement of the white man on to their lands. Bikers at the Sturgis Rally can take advantage of the hiking trails to the top of the mountain, or just cruise on by the natural wonder located six miles northeast of Sturgis off Highway 79.

Spearfish Canyon on two wheels

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Sundance, Wyo. to Devils Tower

Sundance, Wyo. sits astride Interstate 90 approximately 53 miles west of the city of Sturgis.

With a population of 1,139 souls, Sundance is visitor friendly, especially during Sturgis Rally days, and hosts a permanent full service Harley-Davidson dealer with everything from T-shirts to leathers and rain gear.

I recommend you start this ride during the mid morning hours, and return during the PM. If you do this you’ll have the sun at your back both directions.

Leaving Sundance northwest on Highway 14, it is a continuous uphill climb into heavily timbered wild territory with panoramic views all around. The speed limit is 65 MPH unless otherwise posted, you probably won’t get into sixth gear on the way up to Devil’s Tower. Pay attention while on Highway 14, wild deer abound. If you see one, there are probably several more nearby, their favorite pastime being unexpectedly dashing across the road after hearing the noise from your loud pipes. When you get to the

Mount Rushmore

13000 SD Highway 244, Keystone

Who can take a trip to Sturgis without stopping to see our nation’s Shrine of Democracy? Every year that visit gets better as there are continual improvements at the famed monument! This internationally recognized “Shrine of Democracy” is located only 17 miles from Rapid City. Surrounded by Black Hills National Forest, the memorial protrudes from the granite with the faces of George Washington, commander of the Revolutionary Army and our nation’s first president; Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence; Abraham Lincoln, who abolished slavery in the U.S.; and Theodore

If you’re a regular attendee of the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, chances are you’ve ridden Spearfish Canyon at least once, and probably more frequently. Spearfish Canyon is older than the Grand Canyon if ya can believe that! It’s smooth, well maintained, and it’s curvaceous pavement is a joy to ride for any bike/motorcyclist, and the 35 MPH speed limit allows the canyon walls to talk back to you in the form of your motorcycles reflected exhaust note. If you’ve never ridden the Canyon, it’s about time you did. It’s an unforgettable motoring treat for any rider or driver. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for excessive speed vehicles; some riders can’t resist a little extra speed. Keep your eyes on the road though,’ you can stop almost anywhere in the canyon to take a longer look at one of the many different spots of interest. Starting at the mouth of the canyon at the extreme east end of Spearfish, the road takes vehicles past the golf course and into the verdant and summer leafy steep-walled canyon.

Halfway up the Canyon is Spearfish Canyon Lodge, a great place for lunch if you don’t want to wait to arrive at Cheyenne Crossing, world famous for its burgers and hospitality. A quarter mile hike down the trail-footpath below the lodge will get you to Spearfish Falls; don’t forget your camera. If you skip the lodge stop, and continue almost another 10 miles, you’ll get to the aforementioned Cheyenne Crossing at the junction of Highway 85. Make a left and head for Lead, South Dakota. It’s an uphill climb away from Cheyenne Crossing, and the speed limit is 55 MPH. Throttle up, but stay within the speed limit.

Continue through Lead, then Deadwood, and before ya know it, you’re in Sturgis.

— Buck Lovell Pioneer photo by Steve Babbitt

junction of Highway 14 and Highway 24 you’ll turn North bound to finish the ride to Devils Tower National Monument. Devil’s Tower. At several locations midway from the junction to Devil’s Tower along Highway 24 spectacular views of small canyon escarpments with rocky overhangs beg for attention from you and your camera. As you continue riding uphill, the top of Devil’s Tower will begin to be visible as it rises above the horizon. At 5,112 feet above sea level, Devil’s Tower is the predominant landscape feature of the area. The rocky tower itself is a full 867 feet from its base to the summit. The Belle Fourche River slowly meanders away eastward 1,267 below the tower. When heading back to Sundance, preferably in the mid afternoon hours, the long slow descent makes it easy to enjoy the grand views of the terrain, and typically white clouded blue skies. So majestic is the roadside scenery here, you may find yourself wanting to make this ride more than once, with the images of the first riding sticking in your subconscious. Total mileage here (round trip) is approximately 56 miles give or take a burnout.

— Buck Lovell Roosevelt, who reformed corruption, is responsible for our national’s national parks system and for conserving wildlife. The site also features mountain goats, the Avenue of Flags, an interactive museum, and a new visitors’ center. Visitors can also follow the Presidential Trail to the base of the mountain. An evening lighting ceremony is also a sight to see during the summer months, and it begins at 9 p.m. Additionally, if you’ve already traveled the common route to the mountain through Keystone, try entering through the back way on Highway 244, which offers some unique scenic sights and a relaxing ride through the Hills.

Read more from Buck at BLABB (Buck Lovell’s American Biker Blog) online at www.sturgis.com.

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Fort Meade Museum The Star

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66 years of peacekeeping Spangled

Banner:

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Pioneer

FORT MEADE — With 66 years of history as an active, peacekeeping fort in the Black Hills, as well as a training ground for national guardsmen and a place where our nation’s heroes are taken care of through the Veterans Administration hospital, Fort Meade is a “must see” destination for anyone who has an interest in military history.

And the Fort Meade Museum, located just East of Sturgis on Highway 34, is the first stopping point to view that history. The museum, located in the old Fort Meade headquarters in the historical district of the fort, houses the historical treasures from the fort’s establishment in 1878 through 1944. It also carries many items that tell the story of Sturgis and Meade County, long after the fort was no longer an active military post.

“During the 66 years of the fort a lot of things did go on,” said Bob Kusser, director of the Fort Meade Museum. “The horse cavalry was here until at least 1942. The national anthem began here in 1892. Also, the Marcus Reno court marshal was here.

The mission of the post back then was a peacekeeper post. It was basically at the end of the Indian Wars.”

An introduction video at the museum explains that after Custer’s defeat at the Little Big Horn, widespread Indian raids plagued travelers to the Black Hills. The fort was built as the result of political pressure to help keep the peace in the Black Hills.

Visitors to the Fort Meade Museum can view that history in its entirety.

Cases enhanced by natural lighting tell the story of how the Star Spangled Banner originated from Fort Meade; how Maj. Marcus Reno was court martialed for peeping at the commander’s daughter; the story of Poker Alice, who, along with her working girls entertained single soldiers on the fort; and how the fort became the site for 16 Civilian Conservation Camps.

All of this, and more, are told within the walls of the museum that features three stories packed full of history.

As if that isn’t enough, visitors who take the time to walk around outside can see even more history at the post cemetery, which is the only original Cavalry Post Cemetery that has not been moved to a new location. Here, more than 200 soldiers are interned

It started here Pioneer Staff Reports

The Fort Meade museum, which pays tribute to the early days of Sturgis and the fort, was recently remodeled. Pioneer photo by Wendy Pitlick in a final resting places with a perfect view of Bear Butte.

A self-guided walking tour of Fort Meade can also reveal several historical buildings, which are still in use today. A few stone and brick buildings of note include officers quarters, which currently serve as private residences, and enlisted men’s barracks, which are currently used by the S.D. Army National Guard for its Regional Training Institute for the Office Candidate Program. In fact, visitors who come at the right time may see soldiers training actively training at the fort.

In addition to being a hub of history and training grounds for our nation’s next military leaders, Fort Meade serves as the site of a VA Medical Center, where our nation’s servicemen and women are taken care of.

“It’s a great win-win for the community,” Kusser said of the many services at Fort Meade.

Overall, Kusser said the Fort Meade Museum hosts about 4,000 visitors per year. The museum building is open seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally when it closes at 3 p.m. due to traffic congestion on Highway 34. Though Kusser said the Fort Meade Museum only hosts a few visitors during the Rally, he encourages all bikers to stop by and take in a bit of history while they are in Sturgis.

“We have a real interesting history, especially with the horse cavalry and the frontier post,” Kusser said. “So if they come to the Fort Meade Museum they get a taste of the old fort, and how well it’s maintained, as well as the buildings that are here that date back to those early days of the fort to the present. The museum has a great story to tell of the 66 years of active duty here. We invite them to come and enjoy it. It’s a great venue and it’s right on the path where you drive right by.”

FORT MEADE — On Sept. 14, 1814, U.S. soldiers at Baltimore’s Fort McHenry raised a huge American flag to celebrate a crucial victory over British forces during the War of 1812. The sight of those “broad stripes and bright stars” inspired Francis Scott Key to write a song The Star Spangled Banner.

Key’s gave new significance to a national symbol and started a tradition through which generations of Americans have invested the flag with their own meanings and memories.

Fast forward nearly 80 years.

The year was 1892 and Col. C.H. Carlton was in command of the 8th Cavalry at Fort Meade. And the story goes that he ordered everyone within hearing distance to remove their hats and rise when the StarSpangled Banner was played. His orders included the necessity of playing the anthem at all military functions, and this order is said to have convinced Secretary of War Daniel Lamont to require the song be played during each evening retreat at every Army post.

On July 27, 1889, Secretary of the Navy Benjamin F. Tracy signed an order making “The Star-Spangled Banner” the official tune to be played at the raising of the flag.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson ordered that “The StarSpangled Banner” be played at military and other appropriate occasions.

“The StarSpangled Banner” did not become the National Anthem until 1931.

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Black Hills Harley gearing up for Rally

Expanded parking lot, H-D demo rides, and more vendors await bikers

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Pioneer

Pioneer file photo

RAPID CITY — It’s Harley world out there, and this year Black Hills Harley Davidson is gearing up to host more thunder than ever before.

Terry Rymer, co-owner and manager of Black Hills Harley Davidson said from expanding their parking lot by 50 percent for bike parking, hosting 20 percent more vendors, and hosting the Harley Davidson demo rides, his business is getting ready for what he expects to be a large Rally.

“We are expecting a bigger rally,” Rymer said. “In our opinion, the Rally has remained pretty consistent over the last few years. It can be up a little or down a little bit, but we seem to have growth (at Black Hills Harley Davidson) because we are getting better at parking and I think we are getting better at coming up with products or services that the Rally goers want or need. The Rally could go either way, but we are still going to have a large portion of them come through here.”

Located just off Interstate 90 Exit 55 in Rapid City, Rymer said Black Hills Harley Davidson hosts the world’s largest V-Twin consumer show during the Rally. With more

than 100 vendors, Rymer said the business sees a large percentage of Rally attendees.

“We are kind of the daytime gig, so to speak,” he said. “There are not a lot of other places I have ever been to where you can go and see all that we have here and buy it, actually have it installed on your motorcycle, and ride away with it.”

This year, Rymer said Harley Davidson will hold its demo rides right there at Black Hills Harley.

Formerly located at Interstate 90 Exit 30 in Sturgis, Rymer said the motor company wanted to make sure and get in front of even more people.

“They want to have more people on test rides than they ever have,” he said. “It’s a good marriage for both of us.”

In addition to hosting the demo rides, Rymer said Black Hills Harley Davidson is adding about three acres of bike parking this year, increasing their parking capacity by at least 50 percent.

“We’ve learned over the years that parking is king when it comes to the Rally,” Rymer said, adding that the extra parking will be on the southeast end of the Black Hills Harley lot.

The extra parking, Rymer said, will also allow the business to expand its vendor footprint this year,

allowing more businesses to showcase their wares. During the Rally Black Hills Harley Davidson hosts a wide variety of vendors, from artwork, jewelry, and clothing, to parts and accessories for bikes, and everything in between. This year there will be at least 20 percent more vendors.

But even before the official Sturgis Motorcycle Rally begins Aug. 5-11, Rymer said Black Hills Harley Davidson will get the party started with a bang. The annual Black Hills Harley Davidson PreRally Rollout Party will be held July 27-28.

“That has become a huge event for us,” Rymer said. “The response has been overwhelming.”

This year, Rymer said Black Hills Harley is partnering with Fischer Beverage and Miller High Life as the official sponsors of the event.

Together, Black Hills Harley and Fischer Beverage will be giving away a 2013 Harley Davidson DynaGlide, and a 2013 Harley Davidson Sportster. On Saturday night, Jasmine Cain will provide musical entertainment for the crowds, and customers can purchase beer and food while they shop a huge sale on select Harley Davidson licensed products.

Overall, Rymer said he is looking forward to a great Rally this year.

Pioneer photo by Steve Babbitt

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Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame

keeps motorcycling history alive If you go to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, there’s no question that there is plenty to see. But no matter if you’ve been to the Rally every year, or if it’s your first time, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is a stop you can’t miss.

Located on the corner of Main Street and Junction Avenue, the museum houses an excellent collection of nearly 100 motorcycles dating back to the early 1900s.

You’ll see classic American V-Twin motorcycles, metric bikes, and an occasional custom that defies description. Besides its motorcycle collection, the Sturgis

Motorcycle Museum also houses extensive history of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and of the Jackpine Gypsies, the club that started it all more than 70 years ago.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum’s Hall of Fame pays tribute to men and women who have made a significant impact on the sport of motorcycling and the motorcycle lifestyle. Over 115 inductees are highlighted in the museum’s electronic display.

Both in the museum and online at www. sturgishof.com, you’ll find biographical information about each of the inductees along with photos and even some video

clips. For 2013, five new Hall of Fame inductees will be honored and one new Freedom Fighter. The five new inductees are: Russ Brown, Rick Fairless, “Still” Ray Fitzgerald, Bill Gikling, Marjoe Gortner and Lonnie Isam, Sr. This year, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame was chosen as a recipient of the coveted 2013 Silver Spoke Award presented by the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM). The Award is in the “Special Recognition” category and honors the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame for

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its work in improving the image of motorcycling. The award will be presented at the coalition’s annual convention in Reno, Nevada in May. Currently, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is undergoing a feasibility study to determine the general support for the museum to expand. The museum hopes to add a 25,000 square foot addition onto its current location at Main Street & Junction that will house additional exhibit space, an expanded gift shop, and more room for highlighting the Hall of Fame inductees. Once the feasibility study is completed, the museum would expect to begin raising funds to pay for the expansion.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame welcomes around 30,000 visitors each year, and helps keep the history of motorcycling alive for the general public. You can visit the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame year-round, seven days a week. For more information, visit us online at www.sturgismuseum. com or call (605) 347-2001.

2013 Sturgis Motorcycle Museum’s Hall of Fame inductees

Russ Brown

Attorney and creator of BAM, a free breakdown and legal assistance service for motorcyclists. The program uses volunteer members to assist one another in the event of a breakdown or other emergency roadside need.

Bill Gikling

J.C. “Pappy” Hoel Outstanding Achievement Award

Long-time owner of Black Hills Harley-Davidson, who then owned and operated Black Hills Power Sports. Bill has promoted and supported the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally for more than 35 years.

Rick Fairless

Long-time custom builder and owner of Strokers Dallas, Strokers Ice House Bar & Grill and Strokers Ink in Dallas. On weekends, Rick’s Strokers Dallas “Empire” will welcome between 1,000 and 2,000 people.

Marjoe Gortner

Filmmaker who organized the first television show that brought the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally to the viewing public. The show, “Sturgis: The Great Ride” was the most watched show on the Travel Channel for more than two years.

‘Still’ Ray Fitzgerald

Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame “Still” Ray Fitzgerald first became involved in motorcyclist rights when he lived in Nevada. He has continued to fight for motorcyclists rights in Arizona and helped to successfully begin a number of ABATE chapters there.

Lonnie Isam, Sr. & Marianne Isam

A well-known expert in the history of antique American motorcycles who bought, sold, collected and restored hundreds of them. He owns and operates Competition Distributing Inc. in Sturgis which specializes in design and manufacturing of reproduction parts for pre-1936 Harley-Davidson and other early American motorcycles.

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Black Hills

IRON Rides & bikes

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Pioneer photos by Steve Babbitt

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!

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Our outstanding homes are a memorable alternative to hotels and are ideal for family vacations, reunions, Sturgis Rally lodging, sightseeing or weekend getaways.

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IN SPEARFISH, SD $100.00 per Rider

$50.00 per Passenger INCLUDES: Limited Edition T-Shirt Ride • Lunch • Prizes Live Band • FUN

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Photo by Steve Babbitt

For more information contact Steve Meeker 605-642-6228 • steve.meeker@bhsu.edu

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We Specialize in: • Custom Bagger parts • Stereo upgrades • Custom paint

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Your 2013 Sturgis Rally

Schedule of Events OTORCYCLE 73rd ANNUAL STURGIS M

RALLY

AUGUST 5-11, 2013

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE RALLY HEADQUARTERS Open Aug. 1-10: 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

1019 Main St., Sturgis, SD 57785 (605)720-0800 www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com

STURGIS MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM & HALL OF FAME

Open 7 days a week $10 for one person, $15 for two people, $30 for five people, seniors 62+ $1 discount Free for children under 12 with an adult admission.

999 Main St., Sturgis, SD 57785 (605)347-2001 www.sturgismuseum.com

RACES AND HILL CLIMBS

JACKPINE GYPSIES RACE SCHEDULE

Jackpine Gypsies Club Grounds Short Track Rd., Sturgis www.jackpinegypsies.com Aug. 3: 10 a.m. – Motocross Practice Aug. 4: 9 a.m. – Ryan Waterland Memorial Motocross Aug. 5: 10 a.m. – Amateur Hill Climb 7 p.m. – Outlaw Pro Short Track Race Aug. 6: 9 a.m. – Gypsy Tour (Destination TBD) 7 p.m. – Short Track Races

Aug. 8: 7 p.m. – Mini-Sprint Car Racing Aug. 9: 10 a.m. – Pro Hill Climb

STURGIS DRAGWAY

East of Sturgis on Hwy 34 then turn North on Hwy 79 less than a mile www.sturgisdrags.com Aug. 5: Western Motorcycle Drag Racing Association/AMSOIL Rally Races Test and Tune Aug. 6: WMDRA/AMSOIL Rally Races Qualifying begins Aug. 7: WMDRA/AMSOIL Rally Races Eliminations

BUFFALO CHIP CAMPGROUND, STURGIS www.buffalochip.com

Rumble in the Hills Pro Hill Climb Aug. 7-8: 4:30 p.m.

RIDES Moonlight Madness Poker Run Aug. 3: 5 p.m. – Ride starts at Rice Honda Suzuki, 301 Cambell St., Rapid City, SD Cost is $10 per bike 11th Annual Mayors ride Aug. 5: 7-8:30 a.m. – Registration 9 a.m. – Departs from Motorcycle Expo for arrival

at Mount Rushmore at 11 a.m.

1 p.m. – Arrive at final destination, Custer State Park for lunch with the mayor To register, call (605)720-0800 www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com/info-guide/mayors-ride.php Legends Ride Celebration Aug. 5: 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. – Registration 3 p.m. – Ride leaves Deadwood 4:45 p.m. – Legends Ride Celebration at Buffalo Chip Campground 5-8 p.m. – Motorcycles as Art Exhibition 7-8 p.m. – Legends Ride Live Auction 8-Midnight – Doobie Brothers and Kid Rock in concert www.buffalochip.com Black Hills State University’s Inaugural Jacket Ride Aug. 6: 8:30 a.m. – Registration at the Donald E. Young Center in Spearfish, SD 10 a.m.–1 p.m. – Ride Lunch, prizes, live band, Limited edition T-Shirt Spearfish, SD Contact Steve Meeker at (605) 642-6228, Or steve.meeker@bhsu.edu Biker Belles Aug. 6: 9-11 a.m. – Roll into Historic Deadwood 11 a.m.-3 p.m. – Registration and activities at the Lodge at Deadwood 3-4:30 p.m. – Depart Deadwood for a ride to the Buffalo Chip 5-8 p.m. – Special reception and Biker

Schedule continued on PAGE 29

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Schedule from PAGE 28 Belles live auction at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip 8 p.m.-midnight – Tesla and Toby Keith in concert www.bikerbelles.com/ Custer Cruisin’ Mayors Ride Aug. 6: Noon – Registration at VFW Post 3442 Registration fee $25 Ride departs at 1:15 p.m.

721 Mt. Rushmore Road, Custer (800) 992-9818 info@custersd.com Pappy Hoel Motor Ride Aug. 7: 11 a.m. – Ride starts Full Throttle Saloon www.fullthrottlesaloon.com Veteran’s Appreciation Poker Run Aug. 7: 1 p.m. – Registration at VFW Post 3442 Ride departs at 1 p.m.

4 p.m. – Honoring ceremony at VFW 721 Mt. Rushmore Road, Custer (800) 992-9818 info@custersd.com Victory Owners Ride Aug. 8: 1 p.m. – Registration begins, location TBD 4 p.m. – Ride departs Deadwood for Buffalo Chip 5-8 p.m. – Reception Rolling Thunder Memorial Ride Aug. 10: Noon – Piedmont American Legion Memorial Ride departs for Black Hills National Cemetery 1 p.m. – Memorial service at cemetery

BUILDERS AND EXHIBITS

EASYRIDERS SALOON AND STEAKHOUSE, STURGIS www.easyriderssaloon.com

Road Iron Bagger Show Aug. 8: 9-11 a.m. – Registration 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Show hours 4:30 p.m. – Awards Presentation

BUFFALO CHIP CAMPGROUND, STURGIS www.buffalochip.com

Motorcycles as Art Aug. 3-9: Michael Lichter and Paul d’Orleans present: “Ton Up! Speed, Style, and Café Racer Culture 2013” Through the Years: Women of the Hall of Fame Exhibit Aug. 3-9: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Crossroads at the Buffalo Chip

Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show Aug. 8: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. – Show 5:45-6:30 p.m. – Awards Presentation 10-10:15 p.m. – Best of Show Awards

STURGIS EXPO LOT Lazelle & 4th St.

City of Riders Motorcycle Expo Aug. 4-10: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Swoop Productions Two Wheeled Entertainment Aug. 2-4, 6, 9-10: 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m., 9:30 p.m.

Ultimate Bagger Bike Show Aug. 5: 9:30-11:30 a.m. – Registration 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. – Show & Awards Military Appreciation Day Aug. 6: 1:30-3:30 p.m.

DEMO RIDES 2013 Harley-Davidson Demo Rides Aug. 3-10: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Rapid City Yamaha, Victory, Indian, & Can Am Spyder Aug. 3-9: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Hersruds of Sturgis, I-90 Exit 30

CONCERTS Buffalo Chip Campground Highway 34, Sturgis Aug. 2 - Queensryche Aug. 3 - The Cult, Buckcherry, Pop Evil Aug. 4 - Halestorm and ZZ TOP Aug. 5 - Kid Rock & Doobie Brothers Aug. 6 - Toby Keith, Tesla, Sweet Cyanide Aug. 7 - Mastadon, Machinehead & Rob Zombie Aug. 8 - Lynyrd Skynyrd, Brantley Gilbert & Madison Rising Aug. 9 - Sublime with Rome Aug. 10 - Fuel, Lit & Alien Ant Farm Also featuring the Charlie Brechtel Band, Iron Cowgirl Missy & Midstokke. www.buffalochip.com Broken Spoke Campground Highway 79, Sturgis Aug. 4 - The Black Crowes Aug. 5 - Queens of the Stone Age Aug. 6 - Korn Aug. 7 - Gary Allan www.brokenspokecampground.com Easyriders Saloon Junction Ave., Sturgis Aug. 2-10: Live music starting at 3 p.m. daily – featuring: Dan Lawson Band, Dom Wier, Don Ray Band, ZZ-3, Wrench Rebel Raised, Jared Blake, SweetKiss Momma, The Moustache Bandits & more!

Aug. 2: 8 p.m. - Jasmine Cain 10:30 p.m. - 3 Days Grace Aug. 3: 8 p.m. - Jasmine Cain Aug. 4: 8 p.m. - Saliva 10:30 p.m. - Candlebox Aug. 5: 6:30 p.m. - Deep Valley 8 p.m. - Puddle of Mud 10:30 p.m. - Hairball

Aug. 6: 6:30 p.m. - Shooter Jennings 7 p.m. - JP Harris, Dom Wier 11 p.m. - Cold Hard Cash Aug. 7: 6:30 p.m. -Blackberry Smoke 7 p.m. - Trampled Underfoot, JP Harris 10:30 p.m. - Hairball Aug. 8: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. - Road Iron/ Eddie Trotta/ Dirty Bird Concerts Bagger Show 7 p.m. - Trampled Underfoot, Cold Hard Cash 8 p.m. - Black Stone Cherry 10:30 p.m. - Hairball Aug. 9: 7 p.m. - Dom Wier, Cold Hard Cash 8 p.m. - Saving Abel 10:30 p.m. – Great White Aug. 10: 7 p.m. - Dom Wier, Trampled Underfoot 8 p.m. & 10:30 p.m. – Jasmine Cain www.easyriderssaloon.com Full Throttle Saloon Highway 34, Sturgis Aug. 3 - Black Label Society Aug. 4 - Bret Michaels Aug. 5 - Gretchen Wilson Aug. 6 - Scott Weiland Aug. 7 - Vince Neil of Motley Crue Aug. 7 - Big & Rich Aug. 8 - Jackyl www.fullthrottlesaloon.com Glencoe Camp Resort Aug. 3 - Candlebox Aug. 4 - Quiet Riot & Warrant Aug. 5 - LA Guns, Saliva & Skid Row Aug. 6 - Lita Ford & Molly Hatchet Aug. 7 - Lee Rocker & Jerrod Niemann Aug. 8 - Bullet Boys & Great White www.glencoecamp.com The Knuckle Saloon Lazelle St., Sturgis Aug. 1: 9 p.m. - Pumpin’ Eythel Aug. 2: 5 p.m. - Dogs Without Sweaters 9 p.m. - Kinetix Aug. 3: 1 p.m. - Itty Bitty Oprey 5 p.m. - Dogs Without Sweaters 9 p.m. - Kinetix Aug. 4: 1 p.m. - Pumpin’ Eythel 5 p.m. - II Amendment 9 p.m. - Randall Zwarte Band Aug. 5: 1 p.m. - Jeffery Loyd 5 p.m. - Extreme Sport Fighting 9 p.m. - Randall Zwarte Band Aug. 5-9: Nite Owl Mon.-Fri. Dueling Pianos 8 p.m.-midnight Aug. 6: 1 p.m. - II Amendment 5 p.m. - Extreme Sport Fighting 9 p.m. - Liquid Blue Aug. 7: 1 p.m. - II Amendment 5 p.m. - Extreme Sport Fighting 9 p.m. - Liquid Blue Aug. 8: 1 p.m. - II Amendment 5 p.m. - Extreme Sport Fighting 9 p.m. - Liquid Blue Aug. 9: 1 p.m. - Glass Onion 5 p.m. - Extreme Sport Fighting 9 p.m. - II Amendment Aug. 10: 1 p.m. - Glass Onion

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5 p.m. - Extreme Sport Fighting 9 p.m. - II Amendment Loud American Roadhouse Main St., Sturgis Aug. 2: 7 p.m. - Joe Fornothin, Dustin Evans & The Good Times 10 p.m. - Dirty Word, Chancey Williams & The Younger Brothers Aug. 3: 7 p.m. - Joe Fornothin, Chancey Williams & The Younger Brothers 10 p.m. - Dirty Word, Dustin Evans & The Good Times Aug. 4: 7 p.m. - Joe Fornothin, October Road 10 p.m. - Dirty Word, Dustin Evans & The Good Times Aug. 5: 7 p.m. - Joe Fornothin, Dustin Evans & The Good Times 10 p.m. - Judd Hoos, October Road Aug. 6: 7 p.m. - Dirty Word, 32 Below 10 p.m. - Judd Hoos, Dustin Evans & The Good Times Aug. 7: 7 p.m. - Judd Hoos 10 p.m. - Dirty Word, 32 Below Aug. 8: 7 p.m. - Dirty Word, Slamabama 10 p.m. - Judd Hoos, 32 Below Aug. 9: 7 p.m. - Judd Hoos, Slamabama 10 p.m. - Dirty Word, 32 Below Aug. 10: 7 p.m. - Dirty Word, Slamabama 10 p.m. - Judd Hoos, 32 Below www.loudamericanroadhouse.com

OTHER COOL STUFF! Military Appreciation Day Aug. 6: 1-3:30 p.m.

City of Riders Motorcycle Expo, Sturgis S.D. Pork Producers Council Grilling Aug. 6: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Lynn’s Dakotamart, Lazelle St., Sturgis Wall of Death Aug. 2-10: 10 a.m.-1 a.m. daily Free to the public Buffalo Chip Campground Husker Helicopter Rides Aug. 2-9: 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Buffalo Chip Campground Linnaberry Wine Aug. 2-3: 9 p.m.

Live band…FREE Shade Valley Camp Resort, Hwy 34, Sturgis Rumblejets Aug. 2-3: 5-9 p.m.

Full Throttle Saloon, Sturgis Lehman Trikes Factory Tours Aug. 3-10: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Factory Tours - Demo Event – Dealers I-90, Exit 14, Spearfish Nemo VFD Biker Breakfast Aug. 3-10: 7-11:30 a.m.

Nemo Community Hall, Nemo

Schedule continued on PAGE 30

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WWE Hall of Famers to attend 6th annual

Legends Ride STURGIS — Already the most thrilling and celebrated ride of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, the Sturgis Buffalo Chip announced its Legends Ride participants will be joined by three of the most popular wrestlers in WWE history.

Hall of Famers, “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, The Honky Tonk Man and Greg “The Hammer” Valentine will join a growing roster of A-list celebrities, musicians, bike builders and cigar aficionados confirmed for the Monday, Aug. 5 charity event during the 73rd annual Sturgis Rally. The iconic and often televised Legends Ride has in recent years raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for worthy South Dakota charities. Tickets are now available at www.legendsride. com.

Riders will first have an opportunity to meet these WWE heroes in historic Deadwood before the Legends Ride kicks off. Riders will then be escorted on a scenic ride through the beautiful Black Hills to the Sturgis Buffalo Chip, where

Schedule from PAGE 29 Art Inside Out Aug. 3: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Dahl Arts Center, Rapid City Wall of Death Aug. 3-10: 12 p.m.-12 a.m.

Full Throttle Saloon, Sturgis Two Wheeled Entertainment Aug. 3: 1-1:30 p.m.

Lazelle & Fourth/Event Row, Sturgis Burnout Contest Aug. 3-10: 2 p.m.

Full Throttle Saloon, Sturgis Reveal of 2013 Indian Chief Aug. 3: 8 p.m.

Sturgis Motorcycle Museum, 999 Main St., Sturgis

Brule’ Concert & Native American Dancers Aug. 4-10: 7-9 p.m.

Buffalo Moon Theater High Country Guest Ranch, Hill City

Strongman Contest Aug. 6: noon-1:15 p.m.

Weigh/Sign-In at noon Free Lunch & Live Music Donald E. Young Center, Spearfish

WWF Autographs Aug. 4-5: 4-6 p.m.

Autograph session with former WWF Stars and Black Hills Special Olympic athletes Buffalo Chip Campground, Sturgis

Taste of South Dakota Aug. 6: 3-5:30 p.m.

City of Riders Motorcycle Expo Tent, Sturgis

Vintage Motorcycle Show Aug. 5: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

North Sixth St., Custer

Malibu Bikini Contest Aug. 6: 5-7 p.m.

Deadwood Gulch Gaming Resort, Deadwood

May Johnson Book Signing Aug. 5: 1-3 p.m.

Sturgis Motorcycle Museum, Sturgis

Lube’s Bike Nite Aug. 7: 5 p.m.-2 a.m.

Quaker Steak & Lube, Rapid City

Vietnam Memorial Wall Aug. 5-10: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily Traveling tribute to Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. Buffalo Chip Campground, Sturgis

LED Light Parade Aug. 7: 9-10 p.m.

Begins and Ends at City of Riders Motorcycle Expo Main St., Sturgis

these and other celebrities will join the Legends Ride reception for complimentary food, drinks and silent and live memorabilia auctions. The evening is then highlighted by a double-headliner concert under the stars.

“The WWE developed into one of the most popular forms of global entertainment today and we couldn’t be more excited that three of its biggest stars want to join Legends Ride festivities to help raise support for the Black Hills Special Olympics kids and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame,” said Rod Woodruff, president of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip.

All of the Legends Rider’s contributions, which have amounted to more than $240,000, are passed by the Buffalo Chip directly to the chosen charities for the benefit of the kids and Museum. Help these charities and meet the celebrities by reserving your spot on the Legend’s Ride now. Visit www.LegendsRide.com or call (605) 347-9000.

Hamster’s Custom Bike Show Aug. 8: 2-4:30 p.m.

Lazelle and Fourth/Event Row, Sturgis Jackpine Gypsies Mini-Sprint Cars Aug. 8: 7 p.m.

1216 Short Track Rd., Sturgis Harley & the V-Twins Aug. 8: 9 p.m.

Live Band…FREE Shade Valley Camp Resort, Hwy 34, Sturgis Playing with Gravity Motortrials Team Aug. 9: 2-2:30 p.m.

Second St. Plaza, Sturgis Schedule as of July 9, 2013.

All dates and times subject to change without prior notice.

Not responsible for misprints or errors.

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BLACK HILLS IRON©

is produced by the Black Hills Pioneer, 315 Seaton Circle, Spearfish, SD, 57783, (800) 676-2761 www.bhpioneer.com • bhiron@bhpioneer.com Letitia Lister, publisher Mark Watson, managing editor Wendy Pitlick, reporter; Adam Hurlburt, reporter Leah Shockey, layout

ALUMINUM RAMPS

The publisher will not be responsible or liable for misprints, misinformation or typographic errors herein contained.

Publisher also reserves the right to refuse any advertising deemed not to be in the best interest of the publication.

2013 BLACK HILLS IRON, all rights reserved.

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Motorcycle injuries more severe with weaker helmet laws WASHINGTON (AP) — The average medical claim from a motorcycle crash rose by more than one-fifth last year in Michigan after the state stopped requiring all riders to wear helmets, according to an insurance industry study. Across the nation, motorcyclists opposed to mandatory helmet use have been chipping away at state helmet laws for years while crash deaths have been on the rise.

For more than 40 years, Michigan required all motorcycle riders to wear helmets. State legislators changed the law last year so that only riders younger than 21 must wear helmets. The average insurance payment on a motorcycle injury claim was $5,410 in the two years before the law was changed, and $7,257 after it was changed — an increase of 34 percent, the study by the Highway Loss Data Institute found.

After adjusting for the age and type of motorcycle, rider age, gender, marital status, weather and other factors, the actual increase was about 22 percent relative to a group of four comparative states, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Wisconsin, the study found.

“The cost per injury claim is significantly higher after the law changed than before, which is consistent with other research that shows riding without a helmet leads to more head injuries,” said David Zuby, chief research officer for the data institute and an affiliated organization, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The data institute publishes insurance loss statistics on most car, SUV, pickup truck and motorcycle models on U.S. roads.

While other studies have shown an increase in motorcycle deaths after states eliminate or weaken mandatory helmet requirements, the industry study is the first to look specifically at the effect of repealing helmet requirements on the severity of injuries as measured by medical insurance claims, Zuby said.

Some states have sought to mitigate the repeal or loosening of mandatory helmet laws by setting minimum medical insurance requirements, but “that doesn’t even come close to covering the lifelong care of somebody who is severely brain-injured and who cannot work and who is going to be on Medicaid and a ward of the state,” said Jackie Gillan, president of Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, which backs mandatory helmet requirements for all riders.

Jeff Hennie, vice president of the Motorcycle Riders Foundation, dismissed the study, saying the insurance industry views helmets as “the silver bullet that’s going to change the landscape of motorcycle safety.” He said insurers are upset because “life has gotten more expensive for them and they have to pay out more.”

“The fact is our highways are bloody,” Hennie said. “This (the Michigan helmet law change) doesn’t make helmets illegal. ... No one is forcing anyone to ride without a helmet.”

Vince Consiglio, president of American Bikers Aimed Toward Education of Michigan, blamed the increase in the se-

verity of injuries on bikers who don’t take safety courses required to obtain a special motorcycle license. He said bikers without motorcycle licenses have made up an increasingly larger share of fatalities and injuries in recent years.

But Gillan said the study “clearly shows there is no such thing as a free ride, and the public is paying the cost for this.”

There’s no way to know how many of the Michigan claims involved motorcyclists not wearing helmets, the study said.

But another recent study by the University of Michigan’s Transportation Research Institute found a significant increase in motorcyclists involved in crashes who weren’t wearing helmets after the law changed. From April 13, 2012, the first full day after the change took effect, through the end of the year, 74 percent of motorcyclists involved in crashes were wearing helmets, compared with 98 percent in the same period for the previous four years, the study found.

Nationally, motorcycle deaths have risen in 14 of the past 15 years, with more than 5,000 deaths last year, according to an analysis by the Governors Highway Safety Association of preliminary 2012 data.

That’s the highest proportion motorcycles have ever represented of overall traffic deaths, more than 14 percent, the association said.

Currently, 19 states and the District of Columbia require all motorcyclists to wear a helmet, 28 states require only some motorcyclists — usually younger or novice riders — to wear a helmet, and three states have no helmet use law. States have been

gradually repealing or weakening mandatory helmet laws for nearly two decades.

In 1967, to increase motorcycle helmet use, the federal government required that states enact helmet laws in order to qualify for certain federal safety programs and highway construction aid. The federal incentive worked. By the early 1970s, almost all states had motorcycle helmet laws that covered all riders. In 1976, Congress stopped the Transportation Department from assessing financial penalties on states without helmet laws, and state lawmakers

began repealing the statutes.

In 1991, Congress created new incentives for states to enact helmet and seat belt laws, but reversed itself four years later.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which sent observers to states last year to count how many motorcyclists wore helmets, found that 97 percent of motorcyclists in states with universal helmet laws were wearing helmets compared with 58 percent of motorcyclists in states without such coverage.

Pioneer photo by Mark Watson

Helmet laws state by state

Pioneer illustration by Leah F. Shockey

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Managing the Full Throttle

2013

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Spearfish woman talks about her experience as the Full Throttle Saloon’s bar manager

By Wendy Pitlick Black Hills Pioneer

wears a lot of hats during the Rally, working a minimum of 20 hours SPEARFISH — As the bar man- a day, and sometimes as much as 30-hours in one stretch, her primary ager at the Full Throttle Saloon, job is managing personnel. Every there is nothing Spearfish-native year the Full Throttle Saloon hires Shawn Dardis has not seen. approximately 100 bartenders, From discovering patrons intiabout 25 barbacks, 50 mately entwined in dark people to sell T-shirts, corners of the bar to 25 people to work in the picking passed out cuskitchen, maintenance tomers off the ground at and cleanup crews, and closing time, to looking backstage crews. up on stage to see that “It’s quite a job,” her bartenders have left Dardis said. “Since their stations to dance they’re only employed with that night’s headfor seven days a lot of lining act — there is people think if they very little that surprises don’t like a rule or if Shawn her. they don’t want to do With 70 bars, and Dardis something they don’t more than 400 emcare, because it’s not ployees on the property at the Full their real job.

They’re only there Throttle Saloon, all there to service for a week, so they pack up and the hundreds of thousands of bikers leave.

It’s kind of a crapshoot every who come through the Rally every single day of whether you are going year, Dardis is a master at managto have the employees to do the ing personalities. job that you need them for, and the Then, there’s the weather. As an spots filled.

If you’re supposed to outside bar, Dardis said Mother be there at 6 p.m., and you’re not Nature can sometimes be the hardthere, I start replacing the positions est personality to manage. She still remembers a hailstorm, a few years so that I have them filled. If you back, when softball-sized hail came come in two hours late and say crashing through her office window ‘sorry, I got stuck in traffic.’ I have to tell them ‘sorry, I have to keep as she was doing paperwork. She the bar running and replace you.’” rushed to get out of there as fast as And keep the bar running is what she could, shielding, as she ran, the Dardis does best during the Rally, computer that held vitally important as she is one of Ballard’s most information about the company. trusted employees.

The respect beAs a successful businesswoman tween the two is mutual, as Dardis in the Northern Hills, the Sturgis said she really enjoys working for Motorcycle Rally represents a sigthe man whom she describes as a nificant challenge for Dardis, who smart businessman. has worked as Michael Ballard’s “Michael’s theory is that nobody bar manager at the Full Throttle should have to wait in line to buy a Saloon for 12 years. Though she

Pioneer photo by Leah F. Shockey

Pioneer file photo by Kaylee Tschetter beer,” Dardis said. “I love Michael.

There are some people who get the wrong idea about him from the TV show. He is always thinking and he always has a vision. Sometimes I roll my eyes at him, but he has always been good to me. He backs me up on my decisions. He doesn’t do that with everybody. I think I am one of his only employees who has been there that long who hasn’t been fired, hasn’t cried and quit and come back. I don’t drink on the job.

He has never had to give me a second chance. He trusts me.”

Though the personalities of the employees is a huge challenge,

another difficult part of the job is working under the camera. Since TruTV began filming and airing the reality TV show “Full Throttle Saloon,” Dardis said she has had to learn to work on camera — something she’s never done.

“I do the job because I love the challenge of it,” she said. “With the reality show it has just made it a little more challenging in that you always have a camera there.

Some of the hard things are if I am having an issue with an employee, usually what you see on the TV show of me just blowing up at the last minute, when in fact I have

dealt with this employee for three days over issues. Finally, when it gets aired it is the last 10 seconds of what just happened over three days.

I have had the camera run out of battery. So, if I’m having an issue with an employee or if I have to fire somebody they will say ‘umm, can you redo that?’ They want to know everything you’re going to be doing and I have a hard time communicating that.”

Additionally, Dardis said it has been her experience that the timing FULL THROTTLE — PAGE 34

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Full Throttle from PAGE 33

on the show can sometimes be off. For example, some events that the reality show depicts as happening on Monday often times don’t happen until much later in the week.

But after having watched a few of the earliest episodes of the reality show, Dardis said she now avoids the program entirely.

“It’s weird to watch it because I know the whole story,” she said.

For Dardis, preparations for the Rally started in early June, and sometimes even before then, as online applications for bartenders flood in. Dardis helps with the hiring process, choosing bartenders from all over the country based on current pictures and professional qualifications.

“You have to have the buxom body and the qualifications,” Dardis said.

Though Dardis said she has hired local employees, many of them come from large areas such as California, Florida and the east coast. Dardis said the lack of work ethic, often times, can be one of the challenges she encounters.

“They have this attitude that they are saving us,” she said. “The people who come from this area have great work ethic. But you get people from out of state, like from Florida and California and that, they just think … they’re better than you are because you live in South Dakota. I get a lot of people, especially bartenders, like that.”

But Dardis said she takes it in stride, hiring and firing to keep all 70 of the Full Throttle Saloon bars staffed consistently at night throughout the Rally.

Though Dardis said she doesn’t typically have to deal with any of the major performers at the Full Throttle, she has had issues with some major acts interacting with the bartenders.

“A lot of times you have to watch the bartenders because if somebody comes on the property and the bartenders are head over heels for them, they’ll leave their station and go on stage,” she said. “I look up on stage and there will be five of my bartenders up there dancing. That means they’ve left their

till. They’ve left their station. They’re half sloshed and dancing on the stage.”

Additionally, Dardis said she has also had issues with bartenders interacting with members of the film crew, who are there to film the next season of the reality show.

“We have had a few full throttle babies out of the film crew guys,” she said.

In her 12 years of working at the Full Throttle Saloon, Dardis said the biggest scandal she has ever encountered happened last year. Those who watch the reality show may have watched “Nicole,” the woman who convinced Ballard that her father had died and left $1 million to the Full Throttle Saloon. Ballard, who initially believed the story, flew “Nicole” out to the Full Throttle for the Rally and gave her a full VIP treatment.

As the week progressed, employees became increasingly

suspicious of the woman who was later named as a scam artist and arrested on federal charges.

“Toward the end of the Rally, Michael asked if I would take her to Mount Rushmore and Spearfish Canyon,” Dardis said. “She wanted to stop at every convenience store to get a pop or whatever, but she didn’t have any money, which is weird because if you have $1 million you probably have a debit card or something. I paid for everything along the way. Every single day there was some kind of drama that she was involved in. Michael had sent the check to his attorney and his at-

torney came in and said Nicole’s attorney who issued the check had been dead since 1995 and the check was no good. Nicole knew that all of this was going down. Then it became a federal case, and she was on America’s Most Wanted. They found her in Florida (allegedly) pulling a cancer scam.”

But scams are not the norm, at the Full Throttle Saloon. In fact, Dardis said the property is completely covered with cameras. Nothing happens in Ballard’s bar that he doesn’t know about.

Overall, Dardis said she thoroughly enjoys working at the Full Throttle Saloon, and being part of the bar “family.”

“The challenge is what keeps me coming back,” she said. “I really like working for Michael.”

Pioneer photo by Kaylee Tschetter

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