Born to Ride #267 - August 2026

JUL 2026 #267 AUG #266

EVERY W E D N E S D AY WEDNESDAY NIGHT IN LARGO

read it/watch it/ride it

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Contents

AUGUST ISSUE 267

FEATURES

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COLUMNS

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It’s Back! The Great American Biker Bash Rock House Live Wednesday Night 1948 Turk Panther Bikers Dream is Here for You Black Hills Sturgis Rally Meet Kaeli Largest Antique Mall in the State

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Nefarious James The Amazing Letterfly Craven Moorehead Spyke n’ Mike CMA

DEPARTMENTS Contents Ride Safe Ride Smart Movie Review

REPORTS

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Tampa Motorcycle Expo is Coming Ron’s Team Sells Harleys Rivers Edge is Back!

ON THE COVER Rock House Live Wednesday Bike Night 14219 Walsingham Rd., Largo 727.474.7386

Start Born To Ride TV and Magazine in your city! Call 813.785.3895

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The information contained herein is provided by Born To Ride Magazine or by its advertisers. BTR makes every effort to present accurate and reliable information in the issue. Born To Ride Magazine does not endorse, approve, or certify such information, nor does it guarantee the accuracy, completeness, efficacy, timeliness or correct sequencing of such information throughout this magazine. Use of such information is voluntary on your part, and reliance on it should only be undertaken after your independent review. Reference herein to any specific manufacturer, company, commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, service mark, or otherwise does not constitute or imply endorsement of or recommendation of said by Born To Ride Magazine.” “Born To Ride Magazine (including its employees, contributors and agents) assumes no responsibility for consequences that may result from the use of the information herein, including the use of the information obtained at www.borntoride.com and it’s linked sites, or in any respect for the content of such information, including (but not limited to) errors or omissions, the accuracy or reasonableness of factual or scientific assumptions, studies or conclusions, ownership of copyright or other intellectual property rights, and the violation of property, privacy, or personal rights of others. BTR Magazine is not responsible for damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on such information. No guarantees or warranties, including (but not limited to) any express or implied warranties are made by BTR Magazine with respect to such information contained throughout the site.” No part may be copied without written permission of the publisher, Born To Ride, Inc. P.O. Box 3021, Brandon, FL 33509. 888-795-5779, Fax 813-689-2996.

THE BASIC LEFT-TURN

Approaching a busy four-way intersection there are a lot of elements to monitor: cross traffic may or may not stop for the light; pedestrians could step out at any time; an oncoming car waiting to turn left could fail to detect your presence and turn left in front of you. Sure enough, just as you approach the intersection, the car in the opposing left-turn lane swings into your path. You brake hard and swerve at the last second, barely avoiding a broadside collision.

Strategy: Without a doubt, this scenario is a frequent hazard for motorcyclists riding in urban areas. A common type of motorcycle crash (for sober riders) occurs during daylight hours, at low speeds (around 30 mph), when an oncoming vehicle turns left into your path. Again, when approaching an intersection with a vehicle waiting in the left-turn lane, your best bet is to assume the worst: that a car will pull out in front of you. Reduce your speed as you approach the intersection, either downshifting or lightly applying the front brake. Adjust your position in the lane to be seen better. Slowing will increase your safety cushion: slowing just 10 mph reduces your stopping distance significantly, and covering your brake greatly reduces reaction time. After you’ve slowed, continue to visually monitor the car in case it moves and forces you to change position or stop quickly.

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IT’S BACK SATURDAY OCTOBER 24TH

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IT’S COMING, Saturday October 24, Great American Biker Bash at River’s Edge

Great American Biker Bash! See more photos at www.BornToRide.com

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ROCK HOUSE LIVE

W E D N E S DAY N I G H T B I K E N I G H T

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14219 WALSINGHAM RD., LARGO, FL | 727.474.7388

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The Value of Supporting the Motorcycle Community Before you read another word, let me tell you where I’m coming from.

I’m writing this as a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast first. The fact that I organize motorcycle events is secondary.

I’ve stood on both sides of the gate. I’ve been the guy pulling into a bike night with friends, walking through vendor booths, checking out custom bikes, grabbing a burger, and enjoying the day. Those are some of my favorite memories.

Today, I also get to see what happens behind the scenes.

That perspective has taught me something I think every rider should know.

First, let me be clear... I love free motorcycle events.

I love bike nights. I love rallies. I love walking around, meeting people, looking at the latest bikes and products, and just being around our community. Florida is incredibly fortunate to have so many great events throughout the year, and I hope we never lose them.

But somewhere along the way, I think we’ve started confusing “free” with “normal.”

The truth is, nothing about these events is free.

Someone is paying.

Whether it’s a dealership hosting a bike night, a sponsor writing a big check, vendors investing thousands of dollars, or an event organizer taking a financial gamble months before the first motorcycle ever rolls through the gate... somebody is carrying the load.

Most riders never see that part, and honestly, I didn’t either until I got behind the curtain.

Long before the gates open, there are venue deposits, insurance policies, permits, security, marketing, advertising, equipment rentals, labor, electricity, internet, cleanup crews, signage, staffing, police details, portable restrooms, and countless other expenses.

Those bills arrive whether one person shows up or ten thousand.

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Then there are the vendors.

Many people don’t realize that some businesses invest thousands—sometimes tens of thousands—of dollars to participate in a major event. Between booth space, travel, hotels, fuel, employee wages, inventory, displays, and time away from their stores, they’re making a significant investment just for the opportunity to meet riders face-to-face.

They’re not just selling products.

They’re investing in our community.

Here’s the reality: everyone is trying to make the numbers work.

Riders want affordable admission.

Vendors want affordable booth space.

Dealers want a strong return on their investment.

Sponsors want meaningful exposure.

Promoters are trying to create an event people will remember while somehow balancing all of those expectations.

Nobody is the bad guy.

Everyone is simply trying to make the math work.

The motorcycle community has always been about supporting one another.

We support local dealerships.

Independent shops.

Custom builders.

Charities.

Veterans.

Small businesses.

Local restaurants.

Why should the events that bring us all together be any different?

I’m not suggesting every event should charge admission.

Far from it.

Free events have introduced countless people to motorcycling, and they continue to play an important role in growing our community.

But when an event does charge admission, or when vendors pay to be there, I hope people take a moment to ask a different question.

Not, “Why does it cost money?”

Instead...

“What does it take to make this happen?”

I think most people would be surprised by the answer.

The next time you attend a motorcycle event, whether it’s free or ticketed, take a look around.

Look at the vendors who packed up their businesses for the weekend.

Look at the sponsors who helped make it possible.

Look at the volunteers directing traffic.

Look at the staff setting up before sunrise and tearing everything down long after everyone else has gone home.

That’s the motorcycle community.

Not just the bikes.

The people.

Communities aren’t built by the people who simply enjoy them.

They’re built by the people who support them.

If we want great motorcycle events five years from now...

If we want places to discover new products...

If we want manufacturers, dealers, builders, charities, and enthusiasts to continue coming together...

Then every one of us has a role to play.

Because the real question isn’t whether an event is free.

The real question is whether we value it enough to make sure it’s still here next year.

— Jeff Greenberg Founder, Motorcycle Expo

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s ago; h t n o m ut 6 or 8 and called o b a e k i c blog t this b h m g r u e o s b o L I s and “ n k r e o e B w e h w fe nt I saw it o ugged him for a uz’ I knew this B lone c a him up. m i h e bike” leav m ’t a n e d l r u d o w e my would b

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DID YOU KNOW: Types of Panheads, 1948–1965 61 cubic inch (1,000 cc), and 1948–1965, 74 cubic inch (1,200 cc)

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“There’s nothing fancy about this bike, but to me, it has the perfect stance and everything else that goes with it. I don’t plan to changing anything major on it-- and I couldn’t be any happier. It’s my dream bike and I love it!” - Love Turk BTR 26 | BORNTORIDE.COM

BIKE BUILD TECH SHEET Owner: Bike’s Name: Fabrication: Year /Make/Model: Build Time: Contact:

Chris “Turkey” Stopnik Panther Turk 1948 Harley FL 6 Months czombieblog.com 714-317-7288

Manufacturer: Year: Model: Builder: Displacement: Flywheels: Heads: Lower End: Cylinders: Rocker Boxes: Carburetor: Ignition: Coil/magneto: Exhaust Pipes:

Harley 1948 FL Fast Ed, Big Scott, Turk?

60 over 80”?

Stoker 1966 Shovelheads Panhead 60 Shovelhead S&S Super E Kick Coil Custom by Turk

Manufacturer: Year: Gears: Clutch: Primary Drive:

Harley 1959 4 Primo Primo

Painter: Color: Type: Graphics: Plating/Polishing: Molding:

Turk?

Gloss Black Rattle Can Max Bush Turk

Manufacturer: Year: Type: Color:

Harley 1948 Wishbone Black

Handlebars: Grips: Hand Controls: Foot Controls: Headlight: Taillight: Risers: Pegs: Electrics: Electrical: Gas Tank: Gas Cap: Oil Tank: Starter: Seat: Fenders:

Turk T-Bars Swap Meet Sportster?

Mid Controls by Turk Re-Pop Chopper 7”

by Turk Big Scott Cloth Chopper 2 Of Them Stock None Custom by Turk and Soliz One Round One In the Back

Front End: Type: Tire/Size Triple Trees: Hub:

35mm Narrow Glide Shaved 21” Avon Chopper Hamburger

Rear End: Tire/Size Brakes: Hub:

16” Avon Mechanical Star

ENGINE

TRANSMISSION

FINISH/PAINT

FRAME

ACCESSORIES

SUSPENSION

Josh Kurpuis Born To Ride Magazine, Real Editorial Content, Real Value for you the Reader.

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IT’S COMING BACK! THE BORN TO RIDE

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IT’S COMING, Saturday October 24, Great American Biker Bash at River’s Edge

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www.bikersdream.app BTR 36 | BORNTORIDE.COM

Throttle Therapy: Why More Americans Are Turning to Motorcycles for Mental Wellness and Real-World Connection Before the emails start arriving and before the day’s responsibilities begin piling up, Mike Reynolds has a ritual.

The 52-year-old construction supervisor slips on his helmet before sunrise, rolls his bike onto a quiet Florida road, and rides.

No destination. No schedule. No agenda.

“For about an hour,” he says, “nobody needs anything from me. It’s just me, the motorcycle, and the road.”

In an age of constant notifications, endless scrolling, and growing stress, Mike’s morning ride reflects a trend that many riders have understood for years. While motorcycles have long been associated with freedom and adventure, more Americans are discovering something deeper: riding can be a powerful tool for mental well-being.

That doesn’t mean motorcycles replace professional mental health care. They don’t. But many riders report that time spent on two wheels helps them manage stress, improve focus, and reconnect with themselves in ways modern life often makes difficult.

The reason may be surprisingly simple.

When you’re riding, your attention has nowhere else to go.

You notice the curve ahead, the changing pavement, the traffic around you, the feel of the machine beneath you. The worries from work, the endless news cycle, and tomorrow’s problems have less room to occupy your mind.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Judith Roberts recently described motorcycling as a form of mindfulness in motion, noting that riding demands “total presence” and focused attention on the moment at hand. She argues that the experience can create a state similar to mindfulness practices because attention is directed entirely toward the here and now. 12 Many riders understand exactly what she means.

“It’s the only time my brain truly shuts off,”

says Army veteran and lifelong rider Chris Mendoza. “I don’t think about bills. I don’t think about work. I don’t think about anything except the next mile.”

That feeling of being fully present is becoming increasingly valuable in modern society.

According to licensed mental health counselor Sam Louie, who has incorporated guided motorcycle rides into his therapeutic work, riding helps people separate from the “cacophony of social media, text messages, and the barrage of electronic and relational stimuli” that dominates daily life. 3 The motorcycle, in many ways, forces a digital detox.

You can’t answer emails while leaning through a curve.

You can’t doomscroll while navigating a winding back road.

And unlike many modern experiences, motorcycling remains stubbornly real.

You feel the temperature change crossing a river. You catch the smell of fresh-cut hay in the countryside. You notice storm clouds building long before the first raindrops arrive.

The experience is immediate and unfiltered.

There’s another aspect of riding that mental health professionals say matters just as much: community.

Despite the popular image of the lone rider disappearing into the horizon, motorcycle culture has always been deeply social.

Riders gather at local bike nights, charity events, dealerships, races, and weekend group rides. Complete strangers strike up conversations in gas station parking lots.

The motorcycle becomes an introduction.

A common language.

A reason to connect.

Louie notes that riders often find comfort in shared experiences and discover they are not alone in their struggles with anxiety, depression, grief, or life’s challenges. The shared passion for motorcycles frequently

lowers barriers and helps create meaningful relationships. 3 At a time when loneliness has become an increasingly discussed social issue, that sense of belonging can be incredibly valuable.

For many people, motorcycling also arrives during pivotal moments in life.

After retirement. Following military service.

During a divorce. After losing a loved one.

After children move away.

The motorcycle rarely solves those problems.

But it often provides room to breathe.

Room to think.

Room to heal.

As mile after mile passes beneath the tires, life has a way of settling into perspective.

Mike understands that feeling well. After a particularly stressful year balancing work and family responsibilities, he began riding more often.

“It wasn’t about escaping,” he says. “It was about finding myself again.”

As he finishes another early morning ride, the world is beginning to wake up. School buses are rolling through neighborhoods.

Phones are buzzing. Traffic is building.

He parks the bike, removes his helmet, and smiles.

“People think riding is about speed,” he says. “Honestly, for me, it’s the one thing that slows life down.”

And that may be the real secret behind motorcycling’s enduring appeal.

In a world that constantly demands our attention, a motorcycle offers something increasingly rare: A chance to be exactly where you are.

Do you agree? Think about it. Can you relate?

Get out there and ride.

Til next time — Nefarious James

Tell Jim what you’re thinking, what do you want to say to him? editor@borntoride.com

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THE DREAM

BY ERIC VICIAN

As a 10-year-old boy growing up in Jackson, Mich. all Dennis Campbell wanted was a Schwinn bicycle. Little did he know that 56 years ago at a time when the troubled Apollo 13 mission to the moon was launched and the world celebrated its inaugural Earth Day, he would literally move the Earth and unveil his entrepreneurial spirit that has spanned the majority of his life and carved him into a motorcycle industry stalwart as the founder of Bikers Dream, an after-market Harley-Davidson business that he took public in 1995.

You see, his mom, Priscilla, now 86, was more interested in Campbell honing his piano skills during the “Me Decade.”

Tickling the ivories was, in her mind, a more erstwhile endeavor in 1970 than popping wheelies on the road. But alas, she said if he could raise enough money himself, then he could indeed purchase his dream bike. The wheels in his creative mind started spinning for the first time and he figured out where the rubber would meet the road on his way to reaching his childhood goal: earthworms.

Campbell knew that fishing in the numerous inland lakes and the Grand River near his hometown was popular, and helping anglers nab walleye, largemouth bass, panfish, and northern pike would be the key to his successful first business. So, he began watering the ground and venturing out at night to collect as many nightcrawlers as possible. He subsequently sold them for $2 a dozen. As he recalls, business got so good that bait and tackle companies wanted to buy 1,000 dozen. Add to that, he collected bottles and cans and cashed them in for their BTR 40 | BORNTORIDE.COM

10-cent deposits. It was wide open throttle time and he was in for that Schwinn!

From there, Campbell’s father, Gene, introduced him to a mini bike – a little Rupp Roadster and he became hooked on the thrill of bikes. He was born to ride. Piano lessons became fodder for burning rubber for as much time as the Michigan sunlight allowed for after school until dusk. But for this budding tycoon, the winters between Kalamazoo and Ann Arbor were becoming too brutal and working for the railroad company like dad just wasn’t going to cut it. Besides, the photos in his father’s motorcycle magazines were becoming more enticing than a pinup centerfold. Gene encouraged Dennis to head West as a young man in search of a custom chopper or two.

THE DREAM WAS BORN FOR THIS BURGEONING YOUNG MAN OF JUST 21

But before we get into how Campbell built Bikers Dream into a franchise that was traded on the NASDAQ after taking a long trip to Long Beach when he had long hair and longed for the California sun, let’s fast forward to his current endeavor: Bikers Dream Music. By 1996, his California dreaming days were over and he relocated once again, this time to the Tampa Bay area.

With money in his wallet nowadays, instead of copious credit card debt in excess of the $100,000 that started this whole thing, he’s ready to launch what he calls the first all- inone digital ecosystem for the motorcycling community. Think Facebook Marketplace meets Eventbrite meets Hotels.com meets Spotify and then some, for all things motorcycles.

Campbell envisions more than 100,000 bikes for sale alongside all the accessories he wanted back in the day and couldn’t find, from leathers and boots to helmets and pipes.

Biker friendly hotels, campgrounds and dealerships will be listed alongside upcoming events and races that transcend just Daytona and Sturgis. Charities will be listed too, including Go Fund Me pages for injured bikers or anybody who knows

anybody affected with things like cancer. And it will all be FREE for everybody.

“I want to make Bikers Dream Music a fun thing,” Campbell said. “I’ll have bloggers, influencers and podcasters on board and we will make a huge splash. Bikers will have everything they want at their fingertips.”

On the Bikers Dream Music app, you can join in on the beta testing it’s open to your input at www.bikersdreammusic.app/, you will be able to plan trips, date other bikers and most importantly for the music angle, create your own musical “scrapbook” of memories via a personal song replete with your own sound, story, and swag that includes an album cover, printable T-shirts, patches and bandanas. Campbell’s song that inspired this angle is called “All the Way to California” and it summarizes his life/business story in 5 minutes and 7 seconds of heart-wrenching father and son dreams turned reality with lyrics like “a dream once spoken, now complete. This song will be able to be heard on You Tube at the Bikers Dream Music channel.

Now, rewind to that dream. Back in time when Campbell knew that dad’s railroad work was a crazy train for him and Michigan winters were brutal.

“January’s were freezing,” he recalls. “I got with a friend and headed out west all the way to the California sun in a beat-up old Chevy Impala.”

They each had about $500 to their names and their plan was to do 80 MPH heading down Interstate 80 West until the road ran out. After reaching the Pacific and sleeping in the car for a bit, Campbell knew he needed to find work. So, like any blue-collar getter done type of dude, he answered a couple classified ads in the newspaper – debating between selling Toyotas or Pontiacs. He was familiar with the Michigan brand of vehicle, but had never seen a foreign Toyota until he reached California. They were everywhere, so he figured he could sell those easier – if he cleaned up his look a smidge, and had his mom mail out his church clothes that could accommodate one of those $3.99 clip on ties. It didn’t take long for him to become the dealership’s top salesman and start spinning more wheels in his entrepreneurial cerebrum.

“Why should I do this work for someone else when I can go buy a car and sell it myself?” he thought.

So, he quit his job, bought an old Volkswagen Bug and painted it. It was sold within hours for a profit.

One car became two, then four, then eight and then he learned about inventory shortage and was flying to NoCal to send vehicles back in SoCal to keep up with the demand. Say what? Car sales morphed into accessory sales then a motor plant followed by a BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 41

machine shop to supply enough crankshafts to support his motor sales. Due to lazy workers at the parts store leaving an invoice in with the cases of hubcaps he purchased he learned how to cut out the middlemen just by spending a minimum of $2,500 in orders directly with the warehouses. Duh. He killed it and made his first $1 million before he could legally rent a car without any red tape at 25.

Motorcycles were next for Campbell, who headed out West in the first place partially in search of his dad’s dream bike – which he ultimately delivered to Gene appropriately enough via train boxcar on the day dad retired from the railroad company. Campbell also wanted a bike for himself. He eventually settled on a 1987 Softail custom Harley that became fondly known as his “blue bike” and famously known for sitting on Wallstreet when he went public with his Harley-Davidson aftermarket parts business, Bikers Dream, not “Hawg Parts” as he originally wanted to name it, because, well Harley frowned on that idea. And it was all due to the desire to have loud pipes on his bike. The local Harley parts guy “Red” was “being a dick” as he recalls. Campbell said he was making great money and tried “retiring” at 25 after letting his auto parts partner buy him out. He had no intention of building Bikers Dream until this poor treatment. “I figured that I’m not the only guy with a $10,000 bike that wanted a set of pipes and no place friendly to buy them”.

Throw in a few lucrative road shows he organized with “Dream Wheels” a branded big rig semi tractor trailer at biker events (where he had no problem selecting prime front and center locations even if it required bulldozing down houses just to park there for a few days and sell merch) “ I remember in 96 when we were in the location now called Main Street Station next to Boothill Saloon 6 out of the 10 days we had terrible storms but still ran 165,000 people thru our store and did millions in bike and parts sales”. Currently, Campbell lives in his working warehouse with his 2 pups in Pinellas Country, Fla. He still owns a few bikes that he rides daily and says he no longer desires the big mansion on the gulf beach. Still though, his crib does feature an incredible sound system and the games like pool, darts, and pinball with a complete bar for friends to enjoy. BTW he don’t care for the term “Man Cave” he prefers “it’s just a cool friggin’ hangout.”

Campbell 30 years later calls his latest venture Soooo Dammmm Cooolll and he wants to “blow motorcycle enthusiasts out of the water, by putting everything that’s out there in one app.” And if you consider his journey from red wigglers to rotational spheres, why wouldn’t it be?

“It’s Been a fun ride,” he said.

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— Eric Vician

Attention Dealers & Consumers It’s Coming

Bikers Dream Music is building the first all-in-one digital ecosystem for the motorcycling community. It’s SOOOO DAMMMM COOL we would really like to show you a sneak peek in this ad But we can’t….IT’S TOP SECRET! However, we would greatly appreciate and value your opinion and, we can do this for you today.

If you would please visit either the QR Code or the website and when you leave your name we will place you on our Beta Test List.

This will give you the First Opportunity to see to see everything before it’s released to the Public

www.bikersdream.app

THE SPEEDWAY INVITATION

Recently, I received an email inviting me to apply for vending space during Biketoberfest at Daytona International Speedway.

I politely replied, “No thanks. I don’t want to get screwed again.”

The response surprised me. “I don’t know who you are,” the organizer wrote, “but I’m placing you on the list of people who are not welcome on the property.”

That brief exchange reminded me why I walked away from that venue ten years ago.

My unfortunate experience occurred during a season of major construction, when vendors were squeezed into whatever space remained available. My location was so isolated that very few motorcycle enthusiasts ever found me. As an artist who creates custom hand-painted pinstriping, I depend on visibility and interactions with people.

Without traffic, there is no opportunity to demonstrate the craft, build relationships or thrive.

When I realized the location wasn’t working, I didn’t ask for special treatment. I spoke with the people assigned to vendor relations, but discovered that they had little authority to solve anything. Next, I tried to make upper management aware of the problem so they could create an improvement for future vendors but received no response.

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Eventually, I wrote personally to the Speedway’s president.

His message was simple: “Sorry, but that’s just the way we do business.” That conversation taught me an important lesson. Successful events aren’t built solely by grabbing what you can from the attracted crowds. They’re built by creating an environment where everyone involved— attendees, exhibitors, vendors, and organizers—have the opportunity to succeed.

I’ve seen the opposite approach firsthand.

At the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, security and traffic patterns made my assigned location impractical. When I explained the situation, the organization’s president listened, understood the problem, and issued a refund. He recognized that long-term relationships matter more than a single vendor fee. That kind of leadership creates loyalty, and loyal vendors return year after year. I’ve witnessed the same philosophy elsewhere, at the grandaddy of motorcycle events.

Years ago, Lou and Harvey, owners of the Lobster Pound in Weirs Beach, New Hampshire, built one of the most successful vending environments I’ve ever experienced.

They kept fees reasonable, listened to the individual needs of their vendors, created solutions ongoingly and genuinely wanted

everyone to prosper. The result was simple: vendors came back season after season because they felt valued.

Today, many of the nation’s largest motorcycle rallies are struggling. Attendance at several historic events has declined, while many longtime vendors quietly choose not to return. Every business has its own reasons, but one principle remains universal: people support organizations that value relationships.

These days, I prefer working directly with Harley-Davidson dealerships that appreciate the value custom pinstriping brings to their showroom. Instead of competing for attention in a crowded and expensive field, I become part of the dealership experience. Customers receive a one-of-a-kind hand-painted motorcycle, the dealership has the ability to offer something unique that can’t be ordered from a catalog, and everyone benefits.

I’ve learned that sustainable success isn’t built on maximizing today’s revenue, cost what it may. It’s built on helping the people around you succeed. Organizations that understand that principle never have to beg people to come back. People return because they want to. Be Good. Be Well!

— Dave Letterfly Knodere

IS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 4985 US 98 N.

863.603.3817

The New Location is Now Open 2 Miles North 4985 US 98 North - For More Info: 863-603-3817

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I’M GLAD I CALLED

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Scan it, See it..

Photos by Scott Odell and The Chief

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BIKER Movie Review

Confusion and chaos pretty much sums up this movie. It is the modern day version of all the biker exploitation “B” movies ever made.

Curiously, Larry Bishop (as Pistolero) appeared in a variety of films including The Savage Seven, Mad Dog Time and Kill Bill to name a few. His collaboration with Quentin Tarantino in this most recent effort, would lead one to believe that “Hell Ride” is a major cinematic production destined for the A list. Sadly, it falls short of that mark.

The story revolves around Pistolero and his gang “the Victors.”

The main characters are himself, the Gent and Comanche who set out to avenge the death of his ol lady Cherokee Kisum. Cherokee, it seems, was murdered by the 666er’s, a rival gang. But wait, let’s back up! This is exactly what makes the flick so confusing. … We flash back and forth from 35 years back to 35 years forward.

It seems that Bishop as the writer, director, and star is the only one who understands what is going on at any given time. I was lost after viewing it twice, but again I digress.

The film is soaked with girls, drugs, and murder. I like all those facets in a biker exploitation film, but the chaotic pace leaves one BTR 52 | BORNTORIDE.COM

wondering where the plot is. It seems the Victors MC have an underlying code of deceit and distrust. As the movie rolls along, several of the members of gang are killed by the Gent and other Victors—leaving only Pistolero, the Gent, and Comanche in the gang. Ahhh, but there is another member hiding in the desert! Eddie Zero, played

by Dennis Hopper appears as a (possibly retired) member of the gang. How they were able to get Hopper to appear in this mess was a mystery in itself, and I was surprised, and entertained for a moment until I saw David Carradine playing rival gang member “The Duce.” Evidently, the Duce and Pistolero had some under-the-table dealings and this conflict led to the ongoing battle between the two clubs.

The 666er’s use arrows and darts to carry out their hits while the Victors use the more conventional revolvers, available at Wal-Mart. The Victors trademark murders– you will see a few of these involve the tying of one to a chair, the cutting of the throat, and the soaking of the subject in gasoline, which is then ignited by the tossing of a Zippo lighter, also available at Wal-Mart. Somewhere in my recall, it seems to me that this ritual was borrowed from the 666er’s when they did in Cherokee Kisum.

In the end, the Victors cut off the Duce’s head, and Eddie Zero delivers it to the 666er’s hangout in a nice wicker basket (see Wal-Mart above). He departs and rides off down the road until his motor quits for some reason. He gets off his vintage ride to repair it, and sees the 666er’s pull up behind him. The leader of the 666er’s, (played by Vinnie Jones) shoots him in the back with a dart fired from an air powered device that looks like a Shark Gun. He collapses on the highway. Much to the 666er’s surprise the Victors pull up behind them and the Gent kills all of them, but only wounds Jones who falls to the pavement. Pistolero in a strange twist of role, shoots Jones with a small crossbow, then reloads and fires a dart into Jones’ gas tank. As the fuel surrounds Jones, who is bleeding cussing and etc, one of the Victors cuts his throat, and Pistolero tosses the classic Zippo into the pool of gas. In the next frame, Hopper gets up off the pavement, and removes his armor-laden jacket – arrow still intact- and hands it to his girl who gives him a similar jacket. They depart the scene, and the three meet in the desert where the 666er’s had previously buried some sort of lockbox containing some sort of (something). … There are three keys that have 666 stamped into them. There is a short argument, and Comanche digs up the lock box and the others give him the three keys. What’s in that thing you ask? You will never know, because the shot shows only Comanche’s face from the inside as he opens the box. I think it was empty, but what do I know? The trio then fire up their motors and ride off in three different directions as the credits roll.

If you are a fan of naked ladies, cool classic motorcycles, and blood and guts, this film is for you! However, if you were expecting a plot, a story line, or a coherent slide show of pleasant desert scenes you aren’t gonna be too happy.

Tarantino once told Bishop “It is your destiny to write, direct, and star in a movie.” Sometimes destiny is not all it’s cracked up to be! I would reluctantly give this film 2 out of 5 stars, because there were two REAL stars exploited in this mess. It is rated R for ridiculous, and runs approximately 86 minutes. In my opinion it should be 86’ed altogether.

The Phantom Movie Review

Do you have a favorite Biker Movie we don’t have? Let us know: rg@borntoride.com

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WILLIE NELSON READS IT

Craven Moorehead Summertime Fun?

Independence Day is gone along with Memorial Day and the summer heat continues to rise. In my neck of the woods, we are greeted daily with scorching heat and the inevitable afternoon downpour. That’s why we all moved to Florida, right? Gotta love this place. Anyhow, I have written about the 4th of July and what it means to everyone along with one of my endless diatribes regarding Memorial Day, so I won’t drag you, my dedicated readers down that same old rocky road. For most people the 4th means family and friends getting together for a great cook-out, fireworks, fun and a lot of beer.

As usual, I forgot to turn in my story early, but I have been kind of busy lately. The more it rains it pours in my life, but yet I live on with the adverse climate and situations. Sometimes it is difficult to become inspired when the chips are down but we all must continue on. Anyway, on top of all the stuff I have to deal with on a daily basis, a lot of really weird, unusual and unpleasant things are happening in my life for some reason. I didn’t mean to upset the natural balance of life or overturn the apple cart, but things continue to become more uncomfortable every day. I’m not even trying to complain here but I am curious if anyone else goes through the same sort of crap that I am going through. Feedback is always appreciated but read on for some important information regarding your security and safety.

Scammers are out there. Nuff Said.

I would have never thought that I, a poor underemployed writer and delivery boy would ever be the target of a scam to steal my minuscule amount of money, but yet, it happened. It seems that

I purchased a very small amount of fuel at a gas station near where I live. I only go to two different places and both are within a couple of miles from the house. Well, I learned a very important lesson by doing my regular routine. I guess the most important thing that I learned from all this is that you should NEVER put your debit card in a gas station card reader. I don’t know which location was compromised but I do know that some scammer read his skimmer and emptied my bank account. I know, it wasn’t like I had a lot of money in there, but I could sure use that money right now. Having nothing isn’t very funny but after spending hours at the bank branch and 3 or 4 days on the phone with the fraud department, all I have to show for it is a negative balance. Yeah, they assured me that the bogus charges would be reversed but as of this date, nothing has happened.

It shouldn’t take two weeks to straighten out something that I was told would be corrected weeks ago. So, if you have a bank account and a debit card, just go inside and pay for your gas.

Don’t let these idiot thieves steal your identity and money. It makes life miserable believe me. I’m used to being broke but not being robbed and then lied to. I will not mention the bank’s name here but every one of them is same anyway. Just be careful. I remember that in the TECO sucks blog that I warned the readers not to plug your prong into an un-authorized socket but now it’s apparently more important not to use card readers to buy your fuel.

Like I said, just go inside.

Hopefully, things will get better, but I have to say thanks to a couple of my friends that helped me through some of the recent rough times and kept me from starving. It is appreciated. I needed some food and some of them came through but now I don’t know which way I am going. It’s a day to day existence and every day something else comes up. It’s incredible how you can live life on top and then suddenly you are kicked to the curb. It’s just life I suppose, and I hope that all of your lives are going along good. I said last month that I would always keep a positive attitude and as tough as it is, I still continue to do that. One other warning: NEVER say “It could be worse” because trust me, it will get worse. I am a veteran of that war and I can’t tell you any exciting stories of victories against the enemy.

No need for me to be a downer here but reality indicates that S#!t happens and sometimes it happens to the best of us. And the worst I guess. Who am I to judge anyone else? I just want everyone to survive, thrive, and have a happy life. Be successful if you can and if life kicks you down, just get back up if you are capable.

Enjoy the liquid sunshine and the open roads and keep the rubber side down. Next month, I will discuss Harley-Davidson’s decision to avoid tariffs and taxes by building motorcycles in the UK. Not this month though. Too much stuff to do and we all gotta keep on moving.

I knew him for over 22 years, there will never be another Man like him. — Ron Galletti

CRAVEN

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 55

BABE of the month

Kaeli PHOTOS BY DANIEL GALLANT

Hi, my name is Kaeli and I am from Tampa, Florida. I like to try new things such as different foods and traveling to different places. My dream is to travel to as many countries as I can. I love motorcycles because they’re like me, untamed and always waiting for the next adventure. Like a Harley, I was born to run!

Bike: 2020 Indian Scout Bobber (ABS) Owner: Sean DaCosta Model: Kaeli Solis BTR 56 | BORNTORIDE.COM

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 57

SUMMER’S FINAL MONTH front row, roped off with a sign that says, That poor girl came out looking less like a ‘Reserved for Spyke, International Parrot poolside model and more like the Tuesday rotisserie dinner special at Publix. One more Superstar.’ Now quit talking and pose so minute in that sun and she would’ve pegged your friend can point his camera at my good side and get a shot for the story.” the mercury on the meat thermometer.

Mike fires back, “You’re awfully mouthy for a On another note, please quit telling people bird that’ll eat anything that doesn’t bite back you can’t fly. Tell them the truth: Why fly and rides around like she owns the road on when I can ride? Or better yet, tell ’em her own Harley. Just because you’ve got flying is for the birds… and riding is for the more fans than a rock band doesn’t mean elite avians.” you get to peck on the guy who hatched I cackle, “Speaking of riding, ever since your whole biker career. If somebody else Quaker Steak and Lube shut its doors had picked up your egg, you’d probably forever, there’s been a cool place just off Indian Rocks Beach called RockHouse LIVE be in a cage saying, ‘Hello and pretty bird,’ to a mirror while the mailman was that’s cranked up a Wednesday bike night the biggest thrill of your day. Instead, you from 5 to 10. They built the whole thing got into motorcycles, magazines, movies, like a biker buffet: live music, parking lot music videos and lived a life of feathered Hey there, my Born To Ride friends. It’s shenanigans, huge air-conditioned inside outlaw royalty. You’re welcome, Princess August, and do you know what that means? bar, a bike of the night trophy, 50-50, free Puffypants.”

It’s supposed to be the summer’s final, giveaways, dollar chicken wings and happy sweatiest month. Although the way our hour drink prices until seven. Good thing for I squabble, “OK, my polly papa or macaw weather has been changing, I don’t think maw, depending on which gender you take you, Mike; it’s basically Daytona with palm that’s true anymore. In a few years, August that day. Here are a few things that you trees, close to home and less bail money is gonna start in May and end in October. should know: required.”

August is not a month… It is just an oven Some special parrot secretly loves you Mike snorts, “Thanks for the update, my with a calendar label and a temperature more than you could ever imagine. feathered biker groupie. I know how much setting of broil. I’ve even come up with an you love hanging around the Born To Ride Every day, complete strangers think we acronym for these 31 sizzling days: tent, perched on your VIP (Very Important look amazing and never tell you.

Parrot) seat, the mirror on the Fat Bird 3 A – Aggressive asphalt There are so many people who smile and acting like you’re starring in the next U – Unbearable humidity whenever you mention my name.

Born To Ride movie.

G – Griddled ground Thousands of people you know genuinely Every five minutes you’re puffing out your enjoy hearing you talk about me.

U – Unrelenting sun chest, fluffing your feathers, and striking another glamour pose while strangers line Your life with me has inspired millions of S – Scorching sidewalks up for selfies. You’re less of a mascot for people who quietly watch from afar.

T – Tyrannical temperature the magazine and more of a two-pound A tiny act of kindness that you once made feather-covered motorcycle ornament with Mike won’t let me go play on the blacktop happen with me and forgot lives on in an ego that needs its own parking space.” because he says I will burn my pterodactyl someone else’s heart. talons and then I’ll have to learn how to fly. I squawk, “Oh, please, my mistaken So yeah… keep being you, old Iron Mike. master. I’m not some ordinary parrot.

He cuts in, “That’s right, bird brain! This Don’t ever change. You’re crushing it! time of year, I am not letting you waddle out I’m the attraction. Every five minutes The sun is going down, and it’s time to ride somebody wants a selfie and I’m not about the front door and sprint across scorching to bike night at OCC Roadhouse. Go get asphalt, squawk at geckos and terrorize the to disappoint my adoring fans. So yes, I my scoot out of the garage, ‘cause we both puff my chest, fluff my feathers, and strike mailman. You can do all that from the airneed some wind therapy. It’s time to get a glamour pose.

That’s called giving the conditioned comfort of the windowsill. your knees under the triple trees, my wings people what they came for…

Besides, I’m guessing you didn’t get cooked in the wind, and the Fat Birds’ wheels rolling A two-pound, feather-covered motorcycle enough the other day while lounging down the road.” ornament? Thank you! That’s the nicest poolside with your cousin? You are lucky -SPYKE you’ve got feathers and don’t have to slather thing you’ve ever said about me. Of course my ego needs its own parking space: on SPF 1000 like your poultry partner.

Do you have a riding pet story? Let us know, Spyke wants to feature them! editor@borntoride.com BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 59

CHRISTIAN MOTORCYCLISTS ASSOCIATION There are two powerful lessons for us to consider in this We all love to celebrate. Sometimes,

we look for any reason to gather, whether for a massive milestone or a small get-together. We might be celebrating a hard-earned goal, a victory on the field, or recovery from a serious sickness or surgery. When an organization you love achieves something great, the celebration is even more meaningful.

In our motorcycling community, I recently attended our annual Christian Motorcyclists Association (CMA) National Rally. It was an incredible event that brought together bikers from across the United States to a beautiful campground and resort area nestled in the scenic hills of Arkansas. This rally is our annual celebration of our yearly fundraising for world wide missions called “Run For The Son” (RFS).

The rally is like a family reunion each year. We reunite with our long distance friends, we catch up in each other’s lives and encourage each other in the unique work the Lord has called us to do. During the sessions we hear from our CMA CEO and each of our National Evangelists. Hearing the Word of God preached in an environment like this truly recharges your soul.

I want to share one specific Bible passage from a message that deeply resonated with me: Luke 5:4-6 NLT When he(Jesus) had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Now go out where it is deeper, and let down your nets to catch some fish.” “Master,” Simon replied, “we worked hard all last night and didn’t catch a thing. But if you say so, I’ll let the nets down again.” And this time their nets were so full of fish they began to tear!

passage: - Go Deeper: Sometimes we have to move out of our comfort zones and get more involved to see the results we want. We cannot afford to become complacent in our faith or our daily lives.

- “But if You say so, I will”: Simon Peter’s response represents the exact attitude we should have when we hear from God. Imagine how drastically our lives would change if we chose total obedience the moment the Lord speaks to us.

Teaches Take Aways: - When the Lord speaks to us, it is for our good.

- If we are willing and obedient the results will beamazing.

- What is the Lord speaking to you today?

We in CMA share a deep love for motorcycles and Jesus Christ. Our RFS helps us in our mission to bikers across the nation and throughout the world. We also have a heart for missions and the RFS supplies funds for our world mission efforts as well. This particular rally is our celebration of what God has accomplished through this fund raising event. CMA’s intentional investment into world-wide evangelism funds several partner ministries that actively spread the good news of Jesus Christ. To learn more about our ministry or to contribute to the RFS fund, follow the link: https://cmausa.org/Donate/ Donate#Runfortheson Ride together, ride safe, and ride on.

- Fellow Soldier in Christ, Wayne (Teach) Masiker Christian Motorcyclists Association, wayne.masiker@att.com

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BORN TO RIDE Magazine

PUBLISHER Ron Galletti 813.785.3895 rg@borntoride.com OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Deb Galletti dgalletti@borntoride.com EDITOR Ron Galletti 813.785.3895 rg@borntoride.com ART DIRECTOR Peter Soutullo art@borntoride.com ART DEPARTMENT Erick Runyon Peter Soutullo

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