Florida Motorcycle Magazine Issue #180

Contents

May Issue 180

Ad Index

Features 3 Special March Events 13 Rumble At The River 14 Born To Ride 1200th TV Mega Bash 16 Born To Ride Lifestyle HD Brandon 20 LisaMarie Garcia-Realtor & Rider 28 King Diamond-1961 FLH 44 Rolling Thunder 54 Test Ride-2019 H-D CVO Road Glide 70

Columns

13

Ride Safe, Ride Smart-The Creeper Womens World-Katy O. Ishee Everywhere Eddy-Is Everywhere Night Train-Riding Storms Spyke & Mike-Remember When Christian Motorcycle Association

8 32 41 43 61 68

Departments Contents 2 Born To Ride Events-BornToRide.com 66 Born To Ride Kids-Happy Mother’s Day 68

Reports

28

Cherokee Blue Ridge Run 51 Larry Buck-Investment Mistakes 64 Fuel Take Rusty-Craig Can Fix It! 65

On The Cover

LisaMarie Garcia-Realtor McPeak Real Estate Firm 813-652-7619 www.mcpeakteam.com

Start Born To Ride TV and Magazine in your city! Call 888-795-5779 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. ­­

BTR 2 | BORNTORIDE.COM

AAA 6 Affordable Motorsports 42 Allstate - Jeff Ard 64 All World Lift Truck 26 AltaVista Insurance 31 Attorney Fran Haasch IFC, BC Barney’s of Brandon 48 Bay Area Auto Glass Pros 12 Biff Burger 38 Big Dog’s Patio Block Party 11 Bikers in Blue 10 BTR Biker Babes 70 BTR Babes of Facebook 4 BTR Mobile App 4 BTR Radio 36 BTR TV-This TV Tampa Bay 65 BTR TV-Great 38 68 BTR Women’s World 38 BTR Youtube 38 Charlotte’s Webb 52 Cherokee Blue Ridge Run 50 Choice Med Group 25 Cycle-Rama 62 Cycle Stop 63 Discount Motorcycle Superstore 22 Douthat Floor Covering 42 Empire Guns & Pawn 56 Fiddlers Green 31 Gotta Havit Insurance 34 H-D Bert’s Barracuda 30 H-D Crystal-Ride With Dad 69 H-D Crystal 72, IBC H-D Florida 32 H-D Miracle City 5 H-D Rossiter’s 27 H-D SpaceCoast 39 H-D Treasure Coast 10 High Octane Saloon 58 High Octane Events 59 Johnnny G’s Tattoo Bikini’s 26 LA’s Midway Saloon 34 Larry Buck-Financial Advisor 64 Leasure Automotive 63 Progressive Insurance 3 Quaker Steak & Lube 7 Old Town Bike Night 57 Rivers Edge Bar & Grill 36 Rivers Edge Bike Night May, 21 37 Salty Shamrock 38 Screwie Louie’s-Scooter Haven 45 Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q 40 Swap-O-Rama 24 Take A Break Travel 60 Tennessee Motorcycle Rivival 53 The Ride Factory 60 TransAmerica Financial 9 Tropic Trailer 62 Twilight Zone 19

BORN TO RIDE Magazine

PO BOX 3021 Brandon, FL 33509

PUBLISHER

Ron Galletti 813-785-3895 rg@borntoride.com CO PUBLISHER

Deb Galletti dgalletti@borntoride.com ART DIRECTOR

Shawn Jones art@borntoride.com EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Jesse Williams jwilliams@borntoride.com ART DEPARTMENT

Seth Wuertz, Juan Guzman, Jared Hartman art@borntoride.com WEB DESIGN/ELECTRONIC MEDIA

Juan Guzman

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Jesse Williams

BUSINESS DEVELPMENT

Stan Barnhisel

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION

Nancy Ray nray@borntoride.com

MULTI-MEDIA SPECIALIST

Jared Hartman

SALES & MARKETING

Monique Drobnak

THE EVERYWHERE TEAM

Everywhere Eddy & Lynne Motejaitis Knight ROAD CREW

Vick Velosity, Kenny Bowers, Doug Bright, Mr. Clean, Bam Bam, Birdman Mike SCENIC RIDE CONSULTANT

Steve Finzelber-Finz Finds CONTRIBUTORS

JP Brady, Neale Bayly, Paul Garson, Spyke & Mike, Susan Hurst, Eric Albright, Eric Vician, Myra McElhaney, Paul Murray, Phil Gauthier PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ron & Selena Hawks, Chris Miller, Scott Odel, Eric Albright, Tom Seiter, Billy Wright, Chopper Dave, Phil Gauthier, JP Brady

BTR 4 | BORNTORIDE.COM

Riding along a suburban street, you approach a slow-moving car. You would like to pass, but the driver keeps speeding up and slowing down, causing you to delay that action. After following the creeper for several blocks, you become frustrated and decide to accelerate by. As soon as you pull out to pass the creeper, the driver makes a sudden left turn into a driveway, leaving you no room to stop or swerve.

Strategy: The car’s erratic pace should have tipped you off that the driver was searching for something (a street address, perhaps) and that her attention was elsewhere rather than on surrounding traffic. Evaluating the situation, you should have predicted that the driver might turn or stop suddenly. Your best strategy in a situation like this is to separate yourself from the hazard. You could have dropped back at least two seconds.

If you choose to pass, do so only after clearly establishing contact with the driver, preferably after receiving a hand signal from her. Never pass at an intersection or other traffic situation where the car could turn in front of you.

For more information go to www.msf-usa.org

BTR 8 | BORNTORIDE.COM

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 13

BTR 14 | BORNTORIDE.COM

See More Photos from Rumble at The River at www.BornToRide.com

Don’t Miss the Born To Ride Great American Biker Bash, Sat July, 27 at River’s Edge

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 15

BTR 16 | BORNTORIDE.COM

See More Photos from Twilight Zone BTR 1200th Episode at www.BornToRide.com

Don’t Miss the next Born To Ride Mega Bash at Twilight Zone Coming Soon

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 17

BTR 18 | BORNTORIDE.COM

See More Photos from Twilight Zone BTR 1200th Episode at www.BornToRide.com

BTR 20 | BORNTORIDE.COM

See More Photos from Born To Ride Lifestyle at Brandon H-D @ www.BornToRide.com

Born To Ride is about the People and The Biker Community who live the Lifestyle!

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 21

The Total Package For Success

BTR 28 | BORNTORIDE.COM

“I’m pretty much available 24/7, Communication plays a huge part in this business.”

My name is Lisamarie Garcia, I’m 34 and have 2 children.

I was born in Puerto Rico and raised in NYC. I’m a Realtor with McPeak Real Estate Firm, a small Veteran-owned Brokerage out of Brandon, FL. When it comes to getting a home sold, social media is key. Someone is always looking so I do my best to constantly promote homes for my sellers. For my buyers, I’m pretty much available 24/7. Communication plays a huge part in this business. I don’t just sell in Brandon, FL. As long as you’re buying or selling in Florida, I’ll help you.

I have three motorcycles. All are Harley’s but I do have my absolute favorite. It was my first motorcycle. I call her little blue. She’s a 2009 883 Sportster. She is custom done in Tiffany Blue and has over 15,000 genuine Swarovski Crystals. Little blue was completely stock when my boyfriend Brent got her for me two years ago.

I ride as much as possible, including to meet up with my

clients. When I do take time off from work, you can usually catch me riding with Brent and my favorite group of ladies, Stilettos On Steele.

If you’re interested in selling/buying a home or looking for your next investment, contact me today. Call: 813-652-7619

Lisa Garcia (813)-652-7619 • LisaGarcia.LMG@Gmail.com, McPeak Real Estate Firm

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 29

Women’s World

Katy O. Ishee, Road Rash ‘N Road Tales

Katy Ishee (pronounced “Is she” like is she coming or is she going?) is known in riding circles by her nickname “Krazy” and has lots of stories where she’s lived up to that name! (Like crazy fun and audacious.)

As a young married woman, riding on her neighbor’s Vespa sparked a desire to ride.

After divorcing, in 1974 Katy bought a 1967 R69S BMW which she still rides.

In the early days of riding, Katy was often the only woman riding her own in the motorcycle clubs she hung out with. She won “Most Unusual Field Event” at a Bike Party where she drag-raced several guys and beat each one. The last run ended with her smashing into the fence only to get up, covered in mud, and get back on her bike.

Described as a “free-spirited gypsy” she’s zigzagged across the country living in Florida, North Carolina, Virginia, Arizona,

Tennessee, and South Dakota. Some of those states more than once. She has a motorcycle license in five states.

In the early 1980s when M*A*S*H was a popular TV show, Katy toured as a “Hot Lips Houlihan” lookalike, often appearing with a Hawkeye Pierce lookalike. Now guests to her home often ask why she has a photo of Hot Lips and Hawkeye on the wall—until they look a little closer!

of revving motors.

Katy’s first memoir Pieces of My Heart: A Free-Spirited Gypsy’s Journey Through Her Heart and Soul … and Hell, is about how, as a pregnant teen she was sent to a home for unwed mothers, as they did back in the 60s, to have her child and give it up for adoption.

Twenty-seven years later she tracked down her son to find that he’s been riding motorcycles since the age of 13, is a retired NYPD officer and a scuba diver. Looks like he inherited his Mama’s adventurous spirit!

After publishing her memoir, Katy was often asked to write more stories about her In 1994 Katy married classic rock singer adventures from the road. Road Rash ‘N Virgil T in a biker-themed wedding. They Road Tales: True Stories from the Road met in a biker bar where he was singing. was published in 2018 and is available They shared a love for motorcycles and on Amazon or you can get a signed, just clicked. The wedding was at 5 Flags personalized copy directly from Katy at Speedway in Pensacola, Florida during a KatyIshee@MAC.com Christmas toy drive for children. Bikers lined A painter, writer, photographer, Katy each side to form an aisle. Santa Clause designed the book cover from a painting drove up with Katy on back of his bike to inspired by the bar where she met Virgil T. give her away to the tune of “Born to Be She now travels around the country speaking Wild.” As they were pronounced “Husband and doing book signings at women’s rallies and Wife” the attendees cranked their bikes and bike events. Yes, she’s still “Krazy” after and couple walked down the aisle to the roar all these years!

By Myra McElhaney BTR 32 | BORNTORIDE.COM If you or someone you know has a unique story contact Myra@MyraMcElhaney.com

The wedding was at 5 Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida during a Christmas toy drive for children.

6606 GaLl BlVd ZePhYrHiLlS, Fl 33542 (813)-782-4272

I planned this ~250mile group ride for weeks. I created an event inviting all on Facebook. The RSVP numbers were growing. Two days before, I figured I needed space and time alone or I would have to be committed to a straitjacket soon.

I felt justifiably individualistic. I canceled the ride with the group so I could go by myself.

Shame on me.

The forecast called for ~60% rain, 90F and scattered thunderstorms. Hot, humid and wet. Who cares? I needed to get out riding no matter what. Wearing my usual; long sleeves, jeans, boots, gloves and my skullcap with my Icicles shades. Icicles are made of aircraft aluminum. The lenses are interchangeable. Believe it or not, they are the only eyewear for riders in the market that you can get with transitional prescription lenses. I got these back in 2008. Much better than buying low-cost eyewear each season and they just look wicked.

Unplugged from the world, I was gone in my “zone” … riding.

Heading east from Tampa towards Winter Haven, it was smooth riding with colorful tropical morning horizons in my peripheral. Once in Winter Haven, my buddy looked at my bike and smiled. Then looked at me saying “No rain gear, open face or windshield? You sure aren’t scared of much.” Then we both smiled. Dark skies everywhere. Back on my bike in a snap, I headed south towards Avon Park where orange orchards are the common landscape.

The storms caught up with me. Normally, when they call for scattered storms, I have fun dodging by using the weather radar. This time there was no dodging. Lightning filled the apocalyptic skies, the smart thing to do was to stop for some java. The landscape was unusually colorful and dramatic. The bright sunshine on one side against a massive blackness split by red-earth paths between the green orchards demanded that I park and shoot pictures. Eventually, I was forced to stop after this visual feast for some more coffee. I sat waiting anxiously to get back on the bike and play! Funny

Riding Storms

how we just cannot stay in place when we have too. I wrote in my journal daydreaming, intermittently starring at raindrops as if they were falling slow motion; “Bike needs a good wash anyway. … God, please make this rain stop. … I wonder how the children are.

I miss them. …”

The rain had barely stopped, and I was back on the saddle riding I27 South looking for I64 towards the Gulf Coast. This road was packed with momentary treasures. I could not help but seize all within my soul.

About 10 miles into it, residual rain from the storms hit me. It did not look like it was going to stop anytime soon.

The sides adorned by green lush bushes, palm trees, orange orchards and farms, small communities with colorful ranch bungalows bearing country-western style business signs. As I was hanging for dear life getting rained on, I saw a Veterans of Foreign Wars building with a lot of bikes and bikers. I turned around seeking shelter.

“The Enforcers MC” were everywhere.

“Respect” should be the first priorities when you run into club members of any colors.

“Can I park here?” I asked. I was given the nod. The Enforcers MC, I am told, is the only sanctioned law enforcement/military MC in the state of Florida by other clubs. Had it been another club, I would have probably opted to deal with more rain.

The group was sponsoring a luncheon for a charity ride called “Dream Ride.” They were waiting for a group coming from West

Palm Beach on their way to Connecticut raising funds for Special Olympics. Taking pictures of the crowd, I spotted Allen West, LTC (Ret), author of “Guardian of the Republic,” Fox News contributor & former U.S. Congressman. We shook hands exchanging laughter and chatting with Gungy, one of the Enforcers MC chapter presidents as well as Rosco who is the National President and founder of the club.

It was all exciting, but my bike was calling “C’mon! Let’s go!” So, I went.

Smooth road, occasional rain but who cared!

One scene reminded me of my childhood; Quoteko Indian cows in the green fields.

Chasing pictures for a few moments, I soon got back on the road Westbound towards I75 leading to the world-famous Skyway Bridge just South of Fort Desoto Beaches. If you head on towards Skyway Bridge you must absolutely make a pitstop at the local biker landmark pub called Peggy’s Corral on I41, just West of I75.

New female visitors are encouraged to donate bras to the establishment by stapling them on the sealing. Silly bikers!

After a quick refreshment, I was off and heading back home over the Skyway Bridge. If I croak, that is where I want my ashes to be thrown. The good Lord gave me a beautiful day. Any regrets canceling the group-ride to share those moments with friends instead of doing it alone? Nah, not a single bit.

UFC Photo DEUT 6:5, www.facebook.com/FloridaNightTrain • www.facebook.com/TattooedSteelLLC

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 43

Simon Bois, AKA “Night Train”

BTR 44 | BORNTORIDE.COM

BTR 46 | BORNTORIDE.COM

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 47

K

ing Diamond started almost entirely on a whim. My friend Chris Lampman told me to stop messing around with a generator shovel project I was putzing with and to do the pan in a VL frame project I had in my garage. We started working on the bike in October or November of 2007, and finished it by the third week of March 2008.

We put in a lot of time in my garage that winter.

Almost every part on this bike is made from scratch or heavily customized. The frame needed a new backbone and a new neck forging, as well as new motor mounts to fit the panhead motor into the smaller VL frame. We had to weld in new bearing cups in the neck, and I modified internal fork stops

BTR 54 48 | BORNTORIDE.COM

to work with the Ceriani front end. The bars were made from scratch. The seat pan was modified to increase the flip-up on the back; I also made a custom seat pivot bracket.

The gas tank was heavily modified (removing a half-inch from the bottom, tapering middle section from the top, frisco’ing the bottom moving the petcock and putting in a new filler neck on the crown of the tank). The clutch lever is a modified aluminum British lever made to fit a H-D clutch cable. We cut the neck stem on the Ceriani trees in half and extended to fit in the VL neck. The pipes were handmade. The top motor mount, the foot peg and brake setup, the kick shifter, the primary cover mount/taillight and license plate mount, the sissy bar, the mousetrap eliminator, and several other things I am

sure I am missing, were handmade, as well.

I tried to use round stock and curved shapes for everything, to get a rounded, organic feel on the bike.

I decided early on to have a quality fit and finish to this bike, which meant polishing, chroming and powder coating all the parts possible. I had the cases and the heads on the engine polished, as well as the entire transmission. I had the cylinders powder coated silver. All aluminum was sent out to be polished; Gary at J&D Plating did all of my chrome plating and polishing. For the paint, I told Harpoon to do whatever he wanted, and he came through to perfection.

For assembly, I used chrome

hardware throughout and used cloth-covered wire for the minimal electrics. In short, I spent way too much time and money to get this bike done-and clean looking.

After I made it look so pretty, I started riding it and promptly doused everything with oil.

Eventually I found the crankcase breather was clogged,

forcing oil out of the engine in all directions.

Once I repaired that, the oil leaking slowed tremendously. I rode all summer, it is fast, comfortable, and a real pleasure to ride. It looks nice and beat-up now, and it will look even better as I continue racking up the miles and flogging it around town.

Thanks go to Chris Lampman for all of his help building this bike, and all the 7th Street crew in St. Paul for their help and support.

I stole ideas from all over, but I got a ton of inspiration from Max Schaaf, Rockabilly Jay, Irish Rich, Arlen Ness’s old yellow VL bike and All Stubbings’ “Detail Freak” bike (both versions-early and late). Thanks to Josh Kurpius for taking the pics, respect!

David Polgreen and Chris Lampman

Story and Photos By: Josh Kurpius

Tech Sheet

General Owner: David Polgreen Fabrication: David Polgreen and Chris Lampman Year and Make: 1961 Harley-Davidson Model: FL Assembly: David Polgreen and Chris Lampman Engine Year: 1961 Model: FLH Rebuilder: Jason Clampett & Kokesh Motorcycles

Ignition: Morris Magneto Displacement: 74” Lower End: Stock Balancing: Stock Pistons: Stock Cases: Polished Stock Heads: Polished Stock,Repaired Cams: Andrew B Carb: S&S E Air Cleaner: Velocity Stack Pipes: Custom Built Transmission Manufacturer: Harley-Davidson Year: 1953 Type: Ratchet Top with Kickshifter Engine: Sprocket: n/a Trans: Sprocket: 23 Wheel: Sprocket: 51 Painting Painter: The Harpoon Type: You tell me Color: A bunch, gold leaf under tank & fender Frame Manufacturer: Harley-Davidson Year: 1930’s Type: VL Rake: Raked to 33°, new backbone, neck forging, motor mounts Stretch: None Color: Black Powdercoat

Accessories Bars: David Polgreen Risers: Ceriani Integral Fenders: Wassel Ribbed fender Headlight: 4” Spotlight Taillight: 50’s Norton repop Pegs: Who knows Electrics: Cycle electric generator, tiny capacitor Gas Tank: Narrowed, sectioned and frisco’d sporty tank Oil Tank: Santee Seat: Modified Bates pan, covered by Sean at Fatlucky’s Other: Imperial primary cover, Primo belt drive primary Forks Type: 32MM Flat Track Builder: Ceriani

Wheels Front Brakes: None Wheel: 21” WM1 Dunlop Tire: Avon Speedmaster

Rear Brakes: 63’-66’ Hydraulic Drum Wheel: 19” Excel Tire: Avon SMK II

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 49

Cherokee Blue Ridge Run, Sept 6-8, 2019 • more info: www.BlueRidgeRun.com

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 51

Rolling Thunder is the largest 1st Amendment demonstration run in the United States, and every year during Memorial Day weekend motorcyclists roll into our Nation’s capital to emphasize the urgency of keeping POW/MIA issues current.

“With the economic recovery and healthcare reform taking center stage, the POW/MIA issue is one that nobody in our government wants to address anymore. If they keep dragging their feet, sooner or later anyone who was captured alive will have passed away.

But for their families, there is never any closure. Searching for and returning remains is a valid mission but there is too much evidence that live POWs were left behind, particularly in Southeast Asia, and we shouldn’t give up efforts to find them.”

Artie Muller, Rolling Thunder national executive director, and cofounder I never cease to tire in participating in this ride since I started going in 1995. If you can imagine doing a toy run in your own city or a city as big as Atlanta. What about riding your Nations Capital, greeted by people on overpasses as you come in and people slapping your hand as you ride down Independence and Constitution Ave? Each year at the end of the ride at the Lincoln Memorial, you may BTR 26 54 | BORNTORIDE.COM

see veteran RT returning performers like Nancy Sinatra & Country Singer Gordon Painter. In past years, I was able to meet Nancy Sinatra, a regular participant, Gary Sinise, Connie Stevens, Chris Noel and TV, and film actor Robert Patrick, who rode his bike all the way from California.

I say it every year to my friends and fellow riders, if you are a vet, this is the “bucket list,” the one to go to. Even if you are not a vet, this is still the one to go to support and honor those who served and died for us, so that we can ride free.

After my first run in 1995, I was inspired to write a poem which is featured on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial web site www.thewallusa.com.

REFLECTIONS ON ROLLING THUNDER It started from the Pentagon, it was an awesome sight, A motorcade of cyclists, an entourage of knights.

Winding through the streets, as far as you can see, Across Memorial Bridge, through Washington, DC Up Independence Avenue, and ‘round the Capitol,

By Washington’s Monument, on and on they roll.

Down Constitution Avenue, past the reflecting pool.

Rolling Thunder, The Saluting Marine, Staff Sgt. Tim Chambers, Thank You

The roar of different cycles, but all playing the same tune.

Past the cheering crowds, lined up along the street, With their hands outstretched, to bikers they would greet.

Where do they all come from, why is it they come?

From Pacific, North and South, like sounds of rolling drums.

From rows of eight across to fifteen bikes abreast, Assorted motorcycles, honoring the best.

The ultimate direction, for the bikers all, All headed down the city’s streets, for the Viet Nam Wall.

Feelings of emotions and feelings of much pride, Respect for those missing, and in ‘Nam that died.

Despite the controversy, they were well up to the task.

Those inscribed upon the wall, served when they were asked.

They gave their lives for us, so that we may be free, Free to live and ride, wherever that we please.

For POW/MIA’s, that is why we roam, Never to be forgotten, bring all of them back home.

Author: Paul B. Murray 1st Mobile Combat Communications Group, USAF (1st MOB) “Black Hats” based in the Philippines SouthEast Asia: 1967; Tet Offensive 1968; 1969 VIETNAM: Khe Sanh 2/68; Quang Tri; Hue; Phu Bai; Chu Lai; Pleiku; Bien Hoa; Ban Me Thout; Nha Trang; Da Nang; Cam Ranh Bay; Saigon (and other places with no names) THAILAND: Nakhon Phanom (Laotian border); Udon; Ubon; Korat; Bangkok KOREA: PUEBLO INCIDENT-1968 Osan; Kunsan, Seoul JAPAN, TAIWAN, OKINAWA KOREA: Taegu 1970-1971 Paul Murray

May 24, 25, 26, 2019 , www.RollingThunder1.com, “Never Forget”, Welcome Home

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 55

Spyke & Mike Hey, there my BTR friends. Blooming season is almost gone and so are most snowbirds and spring breakers. Adios and good riddance. The Fat Bird 2 was down for a few weeks because of a terrible lifter failure that took out the nice Screaming Eagle cam that was making her breathe so well. It figures, Harley-Davidson discontinued that sucker, so we had to get the next best thing. This gave Mike a chance to install an S&S easy start cam. That bad boy opens the exhaust valve when cranking and relieves the pressure on the starting system that most Harley’s suffer from. Bill and Nate over at Wild Bill’s Motorcycles in Largo performed the operation as they came with high credentials. Mike babbles, “You know me Spyke, only the best for my two birds.

And if any of your avid readers need quality work done right the first time at a reasonable price, these are the go-to guys!”

I cackle, ‘Standing on that brake pedal and gazing into the chest of the Fat Bird 2 just made me want to cry. Then, seeing that good cam lobe looking like one of my eggs and the other looking as round as a full moon made me realize why you cried when you got the news. I hope you never have to stare into my guts and see something like that! But, it’s good to see you’re taking care of the objects that got you this far in the BTR world. Most things in life, including me, don’t like to get ridden hard and put away wet ALL the time.’ Mike replies, “Well Spyke if I ever did have to look inside you and found a cam like that, I think I’d have to change your diet. ... I’m trying my little feathered friend, but sometimes life just doesn’t let me do what I need to do. I’m always busier than a moth in a mitten. I wish there were 25 hours in a day and the only time I could sleep is when I’m dead.

Life is way too short and it’s made me realize that we need to live, love, and laugh at every precious moment. I’m gonna do what grampa used to say, I’ll be making hay while the sun shines!

Speaking of precious moments, remember when we were at Kevin’s house helping put a back tire on his scoot? For about an hour we kept hearing his blonde

girlfriend cussing and yelling from inside the kitchen. Finally, she walks out to the garage and says, “I’m doing a jigsaw puzzle and I can’t fit any of the edge pieces together.”

Kevin asked what’s the puzzle of. She replied, “It’s a big rooster. Will you three please help me, it’s driving me crazy.”

Deciding to take a break for a cold one, we followed her inside. She starts yapping about the pieces all over the table. Kevin looked over her shoulder and said. “Honey put the Corn Flakes back in the box.”

I squabble, ‘Yeah Mike, that was a live, love, and laugh moment for sure.’ Mike babbles, “Remember when we stayed at Leesburg till Monday just cuz we wanted to see what the town was like after the event?”

I cackle, ‘Yeah right Mike! I do recall we got an extra night at the Holiday Inn for free because of what they did to us, but that’s another story. …

Let me reminisce, we decided to go right down to the town square and a little bar just off the main lawn and water fountain.

Mike and I grab some chairs on the inside part of the bar. We were the only ones there except for the bartender, the owner, and a contractor. Mike got a cold one for himself and pineapple juice for me. He asked the bartender, “What’s up?”

He replies, “New owner going over some changes for the interior designer.”

We overheard the owner saying how he wanted to change the back wall of the bar to a bright silver. We see the guy write down some notes on a pad then go over to the door, look out, and shout, “green side up!”

Moving towards the other side of the bar we heard him saying, “I would like this wall to be a bright red with some orange undertones.” The gentleman took some notes then walked back over to the same door. He looked out, shook his head, and yelled, “green side up!” He walks back over to the owner who’s at the stage. He begins telling the contractor how he would like to paint the front of the stage red white and blue. The dude becomes busy sketching and writing. He pardons himself and goes back over the door, then waves his hands and says, “green side up!”

The owner walks over and asks, “Why do you keep coming over, looking out this door, and yelling, green side up?”

The contractor said, “I’m sorry, but across the street, I’ve got a crew of blondes laying turf that all the bikers tore up around the front of the stage.”

Mike exclaims, “Damn Spike! That was a great live, love, and laugh moment also.

Finish your story so I can get your wings in the wind, my knees in the breeze, and the Fat Bird 2’s wheels rolling down the road, breaking in that new cam.

SPYKE

Do you have a Favorite Pet like Spyke? Let Us Know and we’ll feature your story. 888-795-5779

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 61

Fuel Tank Rusty?

Craig Can Fix It!

The heart and soul of your bike is the fuel tank.

Originally, the tank was new and clean, but over the years that all has changed. If you are tired of cleaning carburetors or think you need a new tank because yours is too rusty or it leaks, I have the solution. We clean tanks and preserve the metal – even permanently stop leaks! The highgrade epoxy coating we use is second to none; we can even remove most Kreem and Red-Kote liners.

We have a fast turnaround time; it’s the easiest thing you’ll do all week. Call 813-407-2226 or CraigPaintsBikes.com

www.B Events Wednesday, May 1 Clearwater, FL Quaker Steak & Lube Bike Night (every Wed). Live music, great food, and fun. TheLube.com Panama City Beach, FL (5/1-5/5) Thunder Beach Spring Rally. Free concerts! Download the Thunder Beach app or visit ThunderBeachProductions. com.

Saturday, May 4 Tampa Bay - Born To Ride TV every Saturday 10pm on This TV Tampa Bay, also on Youtube.com/ BornToRideMotorcycleMedia Clearwater, FL Born To Ride Women’s World 2nd Annual International Female Ride Day 9am-5pm. Start: Bert’s Barracuda H-D and End: Quaker Steak & Lube. Live music, food, drinks, vendors, Ladies only bike show, BTR TV taping & magazine shoot. TheLube. com Homosassa, FL 13th International Female Ride Day 9am Crystal H-D. Come out and honor Linda “Road Queen” Dalton. Live music, 50/50, gift baskets, food trucks, vendors, Ladies only ride-in bike show. CrystalHarley. com Titusville, FL Miracle City H-D May Day Party 11am-4pm. MiracleCityHD.com Sunday, May 5 Tampa Bay - Born To Ride TV every Sunday 11pm on Great 38 Tampa Bay, also on Youtube.com/ BornToRideMotorcycleMedia Homosassa, Crystal H-D Cinco De Mayo 10am-4pm. Wear a H-D Shirt from Mexico-receive a gift from Crystal 11am-3pm. Free Chips and Salsa bar-While supplies last 12-2pm. Live music 11AM-3pm. Thunder Beach Rally-final check in for Mileage contest 10am-4pm. Free Beer 11am-3pm.

CrystalHarley.com Inglis, FL Screwie Louie’s Scooter Haven Cinco de Mayo Birthday Bash.

Mexican Hat contest, live music, Taco bar and more. 727-565-8743 Plant City, FL Twilight Zone Biker Sunday 12pm (every Sun). Live music, Free hot dogs, drink specials, and more. 813-737-3112 66 | BORNTORIDE.COM BTR 76

Sendare in your info@BornToRide.com, get there noticed, seenupand getold results.

There someevents great to events coming up, so get out andbemeet with friends!

BornToRide.com/events s, Rides & Destinations Titusville, FL Miracle City H-D Cinco de Mayo Party 11am4pm. MiracleCityHD.com Webster, FL Swap-O-Rama at Webster’s Flea Market. First Sunday of every month. Cycle and Auto Swap meet 6:30am– 3pm $5 admission (under 12 Free) includes free drink. Enter to win prizes. Covered space 10x10 $12, Outdoor 30x15 space $21 plus tax. 352-7939877

(2nd Sat). Live music, bike show, vendors, wet t-shirt contest, and more. come to see the 813 Riders and Born To Ride. 813-756-5775

Springfest 2019 Customer Appreciation Party 9am4pm. live music, free food, open bar, vendors, and more.

RossiterHarleyDavidson.com

1:30pm-5:30pm. Live music, food & drink specials, and more.

RiversEdgeBarAndGRill.com

Tuesday, May 28 Born To Ride Radio every Titusville, FL Miracle City H-D Titusville, FL Miracle City H-D Tuesday from 7 PM - 10 Customer Appreciation Day 11am- PM. Live on Facebook.com/ Customer Appreciation Day 4pm. MiracleCityHD.com 11am-4pm. MiracleCityHD.com BornToRideTVMagazine. Live call in 727-678-9055.

Sunday, May 19 Sunday, May 12 Tampa Bay - Born To Ride TV Happy Mother’s Day Wednesday, May 29 every Sunday 11pm on Great 38 Clearwater, FL Quaker Steak & Tampa Bay, also on Youtube.

Tampa Bay - Born To Ride Lube and Born To Ride Super com/BornToRideMotorcycleMedia Wednesday Bike Night. Live TV every Sunday 11pm on Great 38 Tampa Bay, Monday, May 6 music, great food, BTR TV taping Titusville, FL Miracle City H-D also on Youtube.com/ Homosassa, Crystal H-D and magazine shoot, Tomahawk Sunday Funday Party 11am-4pm. Emcee and more. TheLube.com BornToRideMotorcycleMedia Thunder Beach Rally-final MiracleCityHD.com check in for Mileage contestBrandon, FL Brandon H-D winner announced 5pm.

Thursday, May 30 Mothers & Mimosas 10am-4pm. Tuesday, May 21 CrystalHarley.com Apollo Beach, FL Salty Shamrock Free Mimosas & Bloody Mary’s Born To Ride Radio every Bike Night (last Thu). MC Sharpy, for all Moms. (Also takes place Tuesday from 7 PM - 10 Tuesday, May 7 live music, food specials,10-class at Tampa HD, New Port Richey PM. Live on Facebook.com/ Born To Ride Radio every bike show. 813-938-5282 BornToRideTVMagazine. Live call HD, Panama City Beach HD, Tuesday from 7 PM - 10 in 727-678-9055.

Tallahassee HD) BrandonHD. PM. Live on Facebook.com/ Sunday, June 2 com BornToRideTVMagazine. Live Webster, FL Swap-O-Rama Saturday, May 25 call in 727-678-9055. at Webster’s Flea Market. First Tampa Bay - Born To Ride TV Inglis, FL Screwie Louie’s Sunday of every month. Cycle every Saturday 10pm on This TV and Auto Swap meet 6:30am– Scooter Haven Mother’s Day Wednesday, May 8 Clearwater, FL Quaker Steak & Champagne Brunch 11am-2pm. Tampa Bay, also on Youtube.

3pm $5 admission (under 12 Open Jam 1pm-5pm. 727-565- com/BornToRideMotorcycleMedia Free) includes free drink. Enter to Lube Bike Night (every Wed).

Live music, great food, and fun. 8743 win prizes. Covered space 10x10 Homosassa, FL Crystal H-D TheLube.com $12, Outdoor 30x15 space $21 Customer Appreciation Day. Titusville, FL Miracle City H-D plus tax. 352-793-9877 Grillin and Chillin-dogs and Mother’s Day Picnic/Tailgate Thursday, May 9 Party 11am-4pm. MiracleCityHD. burgers-while supplies last. Vets Friday, June 7 Homosassa, FL High Octane for a Cause Ride registration com Saloon Bike Night (every Thu) Inglis, FL (6/7-6/9) Screwie at 9:30am and CMA Breakfast 6pm-11pm. Hosted by MC Louie’s Scooter Haven Benefit for until 10:30am KSU 11am. Live Tuesday, May 14 Trae Vance (Citrus 95.3).

Lil. 727-565-8743 music, free beer and more.

Born To Ride Radio every HighOctaneSaloon.com CrystalHarley.com Tuesday from 7 PM - 10 Saturday, June 8 PM. Live on Facebook.com/ Kissimmee, FL Old Town Bike Wauchula, FL Charlotte’s Webb Inglis, FL (5/25-5/26) Screwie BornToRideTVMagazine. Live Night 5pm-11pm (every Thu).

Annual Gemini Party 12pmLouie’s Scooter Haven Memorial 11th Live music, & more. 407-396- call in 727-678-9055.

6pm.

Zachary Barnett family Day Weekend Party. Cook-out, 4888 benefit, live music, BBQ, auction, fireworks, Open Jam and more.

Saturday, May 18 bike show, vendors, Geminis get 727-565-8743 Tampa Bay - Born To Ride Saturday, May 11 drink specials all day. 863-735TV every Saturday 10pm Tampa Bay - Born To Ride 8887 Stuart, FL Treasure Coast on This TV Tampa Bay, TV every Saturday 10pm Harley-Davidson Summer also on Youtube.com/ on This TV Tampa Bay, Saturday, June 15 Series Concert in the Park.

BornToRideMotorcycleMedia also on Youtube.com/ Homosassa, FL Ride with Dad TreasureCoastHD.com BornToRideMotorcycleMedia 8am Crystal H-D. Ride to Cedar Homosassa, FL Crystal H-D Key for lunch and shopping/ Ride Sunday, May 26 Rolling Thunder May Day Lake Alfred, FL (5/11-5/12) ends at High Octane Saloon. Live Tampa Bay Born To Ride TV Veterans Ride Registration LA’s Midway 5-Year every Sunday 11pm on Great 38 music, food, adult beverages, and 9am KSU 10am. HOG Ride Anniversary Party. Live Music, giveaways. RideWithDad.com Tampa Bay, also on Youtube.

Artman’s Country Smokehouse dinner specials, jello shots, com/BornToRideMotorcycleMedia 11am, available food by Crystal door prizes, free BBQ dinner Sunday, June 16 River Bodez, live music, free (Sun). 863-875-7966 Inglis, FL Screwie Louie’s Scooter Monday, May 27 beer. CrystalHarley.com Haven Father’s Day Cook-out.

Gibsonton, FL River’s Edge Plant City, FL Big Dog’s Patio 727-565-8743 Memorial Day Celebration Sarasota, FL Rossiter’s H-D Biker Block Party 5pm-10pm

To submit view even morecoming events visit BornToRide.com Events There areand some great events up, for more events, go to www.BornToRide.com

BORNTORIDE.COM BORNTORIDE.COM || BTR BTR 67 77

Christian Motorcyclists Association Riding is an exciting event that offers a sense of freedom that is like nothing else imaginable. For the most part, getting in the wind for a ride is a great release, offering great independence and freedom from the cares of the world.

Unfortunately, with all good things comes the possibility of a

less than desirable outcome.

One night my wife and I were returning from a celebration of life and noticed a storm several miles away, and not in our path of travel. All was fine until we got out in the countryside and noticed the storm had changed directions. Now it was headed our way, and we would have to ride directly into the danger as there was no detour available. It was a very dark stretch of road, lit only by my headlight and the lightning from the squall. The storm turned into the worst weather we had ever encountered on a bike. We were not only totally drenched but surrounded by massive thunder and lightning as well. In a word, we were terrified!

During a different ride, in the Georgia Mountains, I had been having a difficult day with the curves. I just couldn’t get comfortable that day. To make matters worse, a lot of that BTR 68 | BORNTORIDE.COM

mountain road did not have guard rails. At the base of the road, I had hit a patch of loose gravel that caused the back tire to break traction. It really wasn’t that bad of a road, but my confidence in myself just wasn’t there that day. As a result, I found myself going slower and slower up the mountain, making the bike all the harder to control. All I could think of was that once I got to the parking area at the top of the ride, I would then face the long ride back down. That was not a comforting thought and added to the worry that already had a firm grip on me.

Both of these situations had an element in common. I had done nothing dangerous or foolhardy, the situation just unfolded as it did. As things began to fall apart, a positive thought came to mind and made all the difference in the world.

The aforementioned rides were still nerve-wracking, but I was blessed by a peace that brought comfort in the midst of fear.

In 1 Peter 5:7, the Bible tells us to, “Give all your worries to Him, because He cares about you.” See, far too often we get into a difficult situation and try to figure out how we are going to “fix” the problem. This passage simply encourages us to give away the challenges that are facing us, to stop trying to solve the issues at hand, and just let God do His magnificent healing work! We are challenged to turn our difficulties over to the one Who made it all. We must simply let go and let God!

In The Wind, Denny Dingler BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 51 Check out BornToRide.com for more articles from Christian Motorcyclists Association

2019 Harley-Davidson

Distinctive, menacing style combined with long-haul comfort in a performance-touring motorcycle ready for long roads and late nights.

The 2019 CVO™ Road Glide® models offer show-stopping finishes, advanced technology, exclusive components and extreme attention to detail. The high-performance Milwaukee-Eight® 117 engine is exclusive to CVO models.

The new Boom!™ Box GTS infotainment system is standard on each 2019 CVO™ model. Get Milwaukee-Eight® 117 power on the CVO™ Road Glide®. Red rocker covers with a new Heavy Breather intake. Premium BOOM!™ Box GTS infotainment with wireless interface, 2 amplifiers, 600 watts of clear audio performance and bi-amp speakers in the front fairing and saddlebag lids. Paint that will put high-end, oneoff custom jobs to shame. And premium 21” front and 18” rear wheels.

NEW Blaze Red band on engine rocker boxes NEW Fang Front Spoiler is dramatic lower bodywork NEW Screamin’ Eagle® Heavy Breather intake for bold hot-rod style Exclusive Knockout™ 21-inch front and 18inch rear wheel – the only factory-installed 21-inch front wheel offered on a HarleyDavidson Touring model. The suspension is engineered to work with the wheel size to deliver optimal performance, handling, and ride quality without compromising fitment of accessories.

NEW Paint Options Charred Steel/Lightning Silver/Black Hole with Contrast Chrome Knockout wheels and Bright Chrome covers and exhaust Red Pepper/Magnetic Grey/Black Hole with

Professional driver on closed course. Always protect the environment and wear your seat belt, helmet, eye protection and protective clothing.

BTR 70 | BORNTORIDE.COM

New and Used Sales, Financing, Parts, Accessories and Maintenance Services all in Store

CVO™ Road Glide®

Contrast Anodize Knockout wheels Mako Shark Fade with Contrast Anodize Knockout wheels Three Styling Choices To appeal to a broad range of customer tastes each 2019 CVO model is offered in three distinctly different styling treatments, from a look with a bright powertrain and chrome details with two-tone paint, to a combination of dark and bright finishes, to a very dark look with a monochrome or fade paint.

Premium Paint and Finishes Harley-Davidson CVO models feature exclusive paint

colors and designs. The CVO models are also used to introduce new finish treatments as an alternative to traditional chrome.

CVO Fade Paint is an extremely complex treatment. Developed exclusively for Harley-Davidson, the fade effect goes from a lighter to darker shade as it moves higher on the motorcycle and is very carefully aligned on each piece of bodywork to create the illusion that the motorcycle is being lighted from below. This paint treatment relies on expertly programmed robotic application of multiple layers of paint.

Specifications DIMENSIONS Length: 96.9 in. (2,460 mm) Seat Height: 26.8 in. (680 mm) Fuel Capacity: 6 gal. (22.7 L) Dry weight: 849 lb. (385 kg) POWERTRAIN Engine Milwaukee-Eight™ 117 Displacement: 117 cu in (1,923 cc) Bore: 4.075 in. (104 mm) Stroke: 4.5 in. (114 mm) Engine Torque: 125 ft-lb (169 Nm) Transmission: 6-Speed Cruise Drive® WHEELS / TIRES Wheels: Gloss Black and Contrast Chrome Knockout Front: BW 130/60B21 M/C63H Rear: BW 180/55B18 M/C80H

1147 S Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL, 352-353-8832

Read the owners manual and product warning labels before operation. Model shown with optional accessories. Vehicle specifications subject to change.

Crystal Harley-Davidson®, www.CrystalHarley.com, 352-353-8832

BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 71