Born to Ride Motorcycle Magazine Southeast #58

Contents

December Issue 58

Ad Index

Features Triumph Street Triple R 12 The Redneck Rumble 16 Wayne Rainey-Anatomy of a Legend 28 Krista Grotte-Nation’s Fire 32

Columns

12

Woman’s World-Myra McElhaney 9 Rob Brooks-Road Dirt Christmas Musings 26 41 The Motorcycle Law Group Craven Moorehead 46 Christian Motorcycle Association 48

Departments Ride Safe, Ride Smart Movie Review-Hell Ride Born To Ride Events-www.BornToRide.com BTR Kids

7 20 42 48

Reports Helmets DOT Approved-Chuck Watwood 5 Horsepower, Speed, Performance 11 Is Your Fuel Tank Rusty? 45

32

On The Cover Krista Grotte-Actress The Movie- Nation’s Fire

AAA IFC Alpine Motorcycle Tours 45 Biker Owned Business 45 BTR Advertise 10 BTR Cigar Club 38 BTR Facebook 47 BTR Lifestyle 30 BTR Patch 6 BTR Pin-Up Girls 38 BTR Radio 47 BTR Magazine Subscription 5 BTR VIP Text 8 BTR Youtube 5, 12 Copperhead Lodge 19 Cycle World of Athens 37 Cycle Rama 11 FreeWheeling Powersports 15 Georgia Motor Trike 6 Gibtown Bike Fest 22 Great American Motorcycle Show 31 HD Fraziers 3 HD Raging Bull IBC HD Tifton BC Indian Motorcycle Marietta 24, 25 LawBike.com 1 Leather, Love & Freedom 45 Love Jugs 27 Motorcycle Law Group 40 ProRider 7 Renegade Classics 23 Saddle Creek 47 Thunder By The Bay 21 Toys Wanted 45 Visit Sarasota 21 Wanted GI Joe 45

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888-795-5779 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. ­­

Helmets: D.O.T. APPROVED HELMETS ARE REQUIRED IN GEORGIA Georgia requires protective headgear for both passengers and riders of motorcycles and trikes, regardless of age or insurance coverage, unless they are riding within an enclosed cab.

According to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) §40-6-315 (sections a and d): (a) No person shall operate or ride upon a motorcycle unless he or she is wearing protective headgear, which complies with standards established by the commissioner of public safety. (d) The commissioner of public safety is authorized to approve or disapprove protective headgear and eye-protective devices required in this code section and to issue and enforce regulations establishing standards and specifications for the approval thereof. The commissioner shall publish lists of all protective headgear and eye-protective devices by name and type, which have been approved by it.

There is no list of approved protective headgear, so the statute must be interpreted by the rules and regulations created

by the Georgia Board of Public three inches away from the Safety. center of impact from the impact Helmet Standards: attenuation testing.

The standards set forth in 3. Retention Systems – where 49 C.F.R. §571-218 (FMVSA each helmet is placed on a Standard No. 218: Motorcycle stationary test head-form and the Helmets) establish minimum retaining straps are subject to a quasi-static tensile load. performance requirements for Georgia’s helmet law has helmets designed for use by survived appeals court cases, motorcyclists and other motor though it does not give a vehicle users. precise description of protective These standards include specific requirements for retention headgear. The Georgia courts may decide if protective headgear systems and straps, impact equipment complies with the durability, penetration, coverage applicable standards (DOT). over the head and skull, rigid Reverse trikes that are not projections inside and outside the equipped with an enclosed cab, protective shell, labeling, size, and have steering wheels and and other factors.

The standards outline specific side-by-side seating such as the Polaris Slingshot are considered testing conditions and testing motorcycles in Georgia and thus results in the areas of: 1. Impact Attenuation – where Georgia’s helmet law applies to them. Other states may have each helmet is tested at four differing interpretations as to sites, with two impacts at each site, two upon a flat anvil and two whether this unique type of vehicle falls under their helmet upon a hemispherical anvil. laws and we suggest that you 2. Penetration – where independently research any state each helmet, after Impact where you wish to operate this Attenuation testing, is subject to type of vehicle without using a two penetration blows at least helmet. three inches apart and at least Ride Safe, Chuck Watwood, LawBike.com, 770-650-0016

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MAXIMUM OR EMERGENCY BRAKING

Stopping your motorcycle in the shortest possible distance is another valuable skill that street riders need. When an obstacle appears in front of you and swerving is not an option because there are no escape routes available (a piece of furniture falls off of the truck in front of you), then stopping becomes your only option to avoid a collision.

The term “maximum braking” is used when both brakes are applied as firmly as possible without locking up either wheel, typically in an emergency situation. To achieve maximum braking, simultaneously squeeze the front brake and clutch levers, and press the rear brake pedal with firm pressure. Apply the brakes smoothly—avoid “grabbing” or “stabbing” the brakes, as the harsh application is more likely to cause a skid or other upset to the chassis. During maximum braking, keep the motorcycle in as straight a line as possible to reduce lean angle and the likelihood of the wheels losing traction. Remember, if either wheel is skidding, maximum braking power is not being applied to the road surface.

Keep your body centered over the motorcycle and look well ahead, not down.

Maximum braking, like swerving, is a critical skill that should be practiced. It is wise to occasionally go to a clear (not wet or oily), safe area and practice maximum braking maneuvers to accustom yourself to how much braking force can be applied before your wheels begin to skid. This is especially the case if you have recently purchased a new or different motorcycle and need to discover its unique braking characteristics.

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Women’s World Make It a Great Ride!

When June Cline was about ten years old her mama’s brother, ‘Uncle James’ picked her up, sat her on back of his bike and said, “Hold on!” Off they went! June was terrified, excited and hooked. She loved it!

Unfortunately, at the end of that short ride, June’s mama was furious. “If I ever catch you on the back of a motorcycle again I’ll beat you half to death,” her mama admonished. “You can die on those things!”

As a teen, June’s first boyfriend William had a bike. (A secret from Mama!) June would slip off, saying she was going to a girlfriend’s house. She’d hop on the back of William’s bike and they’d go all around town.

Once she almost got caught when they pulled up to a traffic light only to see Mama’s car in the next lane. She hid her face, William turned at the light and they escaped the

wrath of Mama.

After high school June was busy with college, marriage, moving around the country and building a career, but she never forgot the thrill and vowed that someday she’d own and ride a Harley.

When she was 53 she had an interesting opportunity. She and a friend were driving across the county. The friend was on the phone then turned to June saying, “So do you want a Harley or not?”

The friend’s daughter-in-law was having to sell her practically new Harley-Davidson 883 Custom Deluxe Sportster. June bought it sight unseen and had it delivered to her home. Then she signed up for classes to learn to ride.

It was more of a challenge than she anticipated. Her motorcycle class named her

If you would like info on Born To Ride Womens Club, Email info@borntoride.com

‘most likely NOT to succeed.’ Every time she went out her bike would just fall over at every stop light and intersection. The name “Unsinkable Molly Brown” came to mind as she wouldn’t let dropping it stop her. Wanting a more upbeat name she christened her, “Good Golly Ms. Molly.” Three instructors later, June finally learned to keep Ms. Molly balanced and they’ve now ridden over 45,000 miles.

June has even incorporated riding into her day job. A humorist and Certified Speaking Professional (CSP™) entertaining audiences across the country, June shares personal stories she calls ‘IMOs.’ Idiot Moments.

Those embarrassing everyday incidents that happen when you least expect it. Based on her research of humor and a ‘Humor Style Assessment’ she created, she teaches BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 9

companies that there is a return on investment of laughing out loud.

Now June is known as the Southern, Sassy and Savvy Harley-Riding Humorist! Many of her funniest and most requested IMO’s come from learning to ride and from her adventures on Good Golly Ms. Molly.

From corporate audiences to comedy clubs she knows how to rev up an audience and have them howling with laughter!

‘Make It a Great Ride’ is the one-woman show June performs on stage at convention centers across the US and Canada, and in renowned comedy clubs like Rick’s House of Comedy in Phoenix, AZ and The Punchline in Atlanta, GA. Motorcycle groups have become one of her favorite audiences. June appeared at the Steel Horse Sisterhood’s Women’s Motorcycle Summits in both Ouray, CO and Pigeon Forge, TN. She’s entertained the North Georgia Mountain Riders and various H.O.G. Chapters.

When she’s not making people laugh out loud or riding Good Golly Ms. Molly on the beautiful twisty back roads of North Georgia, June is home in Kennesaw, Georgia with her “mens” as she calls them. With the light-of-her-life, Jerry Cline, and their rescued crazed Shih Tzu, the Lucky Man they make life a great ride!

You can learn more about June at www.JuneCline. com. You can also follow her on Facebook, Twitter and connect with her on LinkedIn. Myra McElhaney

Triumph Street Triple R The Beauty is a Beast

If bikes were blades, Triumph’s Street Triple would be a scalpel. Small, precise, razor sharp and super quick at carving up curvy roads. Triumph defined and developed the “street fighter” category 20 years ago, with the introduction of the vaunted Speed Triple 1050. With its stripped-down, no fairings, bug-eyed headlights, upright riding position, and under seat exhaust canisters, the bike was a runaway hit for Triumph, filling the gap between the Bonneville line and their sport/sport touring models. When Triumph introduced the smaller Street Triple 675 in 2007, the little brother instantly rivaled the Speed in popularity and sales.

The Street’s DNA is derived from the widely acclaimed Daytona 675 Supersport race bike, that has won numerous American, British, and World GP races since its debut in 2006.

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Through several model morphs over the decade (low-slung exhaust, oval-shaped headlights, suspension revisions, etc.), in early 2017 Triumph announced a serious bump in displacement for the Street, from 675cc to 765cc. The Street continues to fly off showrooms across America, and indeed, across the globe. The Hinckley, England brain trust is clearly on to something with this bike, and they know it. Named among Cycle World’s “10 Best Bikes For 2017,” the Street Triple quite simply is the “Swiss Army knife” of modern motorcycles: the do-everything, every day, motorcycle for commuting and canyon-carving.

I had the pleasure of sampling a Street Triple R for a few days in October, courtesy of Ricky Patterson and his team at Freewheeling Powersports in Douglasville, Georgia. The Street Triple might be the

smallest displacement instrument in the Triumph toolbox, but it’s one of their most high-tech. The model manifests in three distinct iterations- the standard Street Triple S, the up-spec Street Triple R, and the chart-topping Street Triple RS. With each model, the tech, tuning, suspension, brakes and ride modes become more advanced. The R that Freewheeling loaned me had Showa front forks and Ohlins rear suspension, Brembo brakes, switchable ABS and traction control, as well as three ride modes- Rain, Road, and Sport. There are even settings in the digital display for customizing one’s own setup, called Rider mode. Did I also mention a quickshifter? All of which comes stock on the R, by the way.

That TFT display is very easy to view and navigate, by simply toggling through screens via buttons and switches on the

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“Gear ratios tighten up, throttle response is much more aggressive, the Triple feels like it’s taunting you, daring you to open it up” handlebars. The technology, yet ease of use, reminded me of the display on the Motus. I liked it, very much.

After picking up the STR, I launched out for Madison, Georgia, to meet my father for a day of riding. At 78 years old, Pop moves a little slower on two legs, but on two wheels, he can still ride with the best of them. The route from my house to his and mom’s winds down through the rolling hills and pastures of Georgia’s lake and dairy country, some of the most beautiful riding in the southeast. Taking the time to get familiarized with the Street while en route, I found the riding position very comfortable.

I’m 5’8”, about 155 lbs. wet weight, and felt the rider triangle suited me well. Slightly leaning forward, but not sportbike-like, with my feet fairly below me, not rear set as on many “race-replicas” I’ve ridden. The older

I get, the more I appreciate that. Being a new bike, I tried to keep my shifting between 4-5000rpm, following the breakin guidelines. The 6-speed gearbox is butter smooth and effortless in shifting, and clutch pull can be two-fingered. I tested the Brembos and ABS a couple of times with hard stops and found braking to be spoton. Strong, precise stopping power, with no detectable “grip/release” of the ABS, and no loss of rear wheel grip.

After meeting Pop in historic downtown Madison, and after a few minutes of his slack-jawed admiration of the little Triumph, we cracked the highways and byways of north-central Georgia. My favorite ride mode was “Road,” with power spread nicely across each gear, yet enough grunt to get frisky with. Pop found us some fun, curvy county roads, and I took the pleasure of diving deep

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into some cornering with the Street. This bike excels at dicing through corners and curves.

As light and nimble as a bicycle, the Street almost throws itself into and out of corners, it’s so flickable.

The displacement jump is very noticeable to me, having ridden the previous generation 675cc before; 90 more cc over the original Street translates to 116 ponies to the pavement and about 56 ft-lbs of torque.

While cruising about 75 mph on some longer stretches through rolling pasturelands, I noted the Street R hummed along at approx. 5500 rpm; it seemed to enjoy the ride as much as the rider. It’s a high-revving engine, and the more roll-on exerted, the more the hungry Triple screams in delight.

And then, there’s Sport mode.

On the way home from the day of riding with Pop, on a long, vacant stretch north of BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 13

Madison, I switched into Sport, to sample the differences. I must say, the beauty becomes a beast! Gear ratios tighten up, throttle response is much more aggressive, and the Triple feels like it’s taunting you, daring you to open it up. I did and found myself running XXX almost immediately, rocketing up and down the hills and leaning deep through corners of the wide-open Georgia countryside. (Disclaimer: I don’t regularly ride like this, nor do I endorse it.) Sport mode completely changes the character of the Street Triple. Driving hard through each gear, the Street in Sport mode begs to wheelie in each. Having ridden several track days over the years, I can confidently declare that I would LOVE a day at Road Atlanta on this BTR 14 | BORNTORIDE.COM

bike. Sunday saw rain showers, but as the storms moved out, I took off on the Street to try the Rain mode. Again, entirely different character traits surface. The ABS and traction control smooth and meter out braking and handling, throttle response is more measured, and overall, the “beast” mellows dramatically. This mode breeds considerable confidence in wet conditions.

After four days with the Street Triple, I came away very impressed. Honestly, I’m a bit of a traditionalist when it comes to Triumph. I absolutely love the Bonneville line, every new model in it. I’ve always felt the Speed and Street Triples were too refined and precision tuned for my tastes. Yet after spending several days with a brand-new

Street, I’ve changed my mind. Bonnevilles are still my faves, but the Street won me over. It is a fantastic motorcycle, worthy of the accolades and awards it has been winning across the moto-journalism world.

Triumph has “hit a grand slam” with the Street Triple, and I predict bikes will continue to fly off showroom floors. If you can test ride one, jump on it. You’ll be impressed, as I was.

Check out the Street Triple models, as well as the complete Triumph lineup, at Freewheeling Powersports of Douglasville when in the Atlanta area. Ask for Ricky and/ or Chrystal, and tell them Rob at Born To Ride magazine sent you.

Rob Brooks

Special Thanks to FreeWheeling Powersports, to get your Triumph Call: 770-920-1033

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For info on Redneck Rumble, www.bothbarrelspromotions.com • 615-364-1828 • Lebanon, TN

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For info on Redneck Rumble, www.bothbarrelspromotions.com • 615-364-1828 • Lebanon, TN

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 20 | 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 WalMart. 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

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Christmas Musings

I took a moto-ride recently in the pleasant cool of the afternoon with a couple of friends, enjoying the increasingly rare periods of winter warmth as we approach Christmas.

We rode past a small neighborhood and glancing right, I saw a father setting out lighted holiday decorations across their front lawn, much to the delight of his two little children, who were obviously more interested in playing with the decor than in helping set it all up. I smiled, recalling the sheer joy this time of year brought to our own girls when they were young. That father clearly enjoyed the enthusiasm of his kids, as I did mine at that age.

Later that evening, noticing the Nativity scene Lisa had set up on our bookshelf, I found myself thinking about the tremendous, lifechanging experience the birth of Jesus was for His earthly dad, Joseph. Here he was, a simple construction worker in Nazareth, getting ready for his upcoming marriage to his fiancée, Mary. Nothing extraordinary about Joseph just a regular working-class guy, a carpenter by trade. Then he finds out his bride-to-be is pregnant, obviously NOT by him! I can’t imagine the horror, shock, BTR 26 | BORNTORIDE.COM

anger, fear, and sorrow he must have felt.

But being a good man, he simply planned to break everything off quietly, try to pick up the pieces and get on with his life, until the night an angel came to him, with some incredible news. …

I found that, in the Bible’s book of Matthew, an angel spoke to Joseph a total of four times, from the first revelation that Mary was carrying the Messiah, to the final word that it was safe to return home from Egypt. No matter what his circumstances looked like, no matter what anyone might have thought, no matter how crazy it all seemed Joseph trusted and followed the Lord, and reaped the benefits of helping raise up the God in human flesh.

Imagine- those rough, calloused hands cradling Divinity; those worn-down, dirty fingernails tickling holy infant toes and nose; those thick arms playfully wrestling with the toddler God; stopping the cart, because his 10-year old son, who also happens to be the Lord of the entire universe, wants to ride to the supply store with him. It must have been amazing almost every day to think that, “this cute little kid running around my house is the

Lord God Almighty in human skin. And I’m teaching Him to fish and play ball and swing a hammer without smashing His fingers.”

We don’t hear any more about Joseph in the Bible after Jesus turned 12. All we know of him we find in the first few chapters of Matthew and Luke. But I know one thing, he was an honorable man, blessed by God, given a unique privilege. And I would love to meet him someday, and hear his stories about playing “dad” to the Son of God. I’m sure he has some incredible tales to tell. …

“The Word became flesh, and made His dwelling among us.” John 1:14

From our family to yours, and from all of us here at Born To Ride, may you have a most blessed Christmas season!

Rob Brooks Born To Ride Magazine, Real Editorial Content, Real Value for you the Reader.

The debate often arises in motorsports over the definition of a legend, and what constitutes legendary status. Is it the number of wins across a career? National and/or world championships?

Is it philanthropic work, contributions to the sport and industry?

Overcoming tragedy or adversity? Perhaps it’s personal honor, integrity, influence? By any definition–Wayne Rainey is a legend.

In the span of a decade, Rainey amassed a resume of wins and titles that would cement his status as an icon of motorcycle road racing. He won the AMA National Championship in 1983 and 1987 and claimed the coveted Daytona 200 title in ‘87 as well. Rainey moved onto the world stage, capturing the renowned Suzuka 8 hours endurance race with teammate Kevin Magee in 1988. Rainey then dominated the GP World Championship for three years, sweeping the 500cc premier class from 1990-92.

A career-ending and life-altering injury changed everything in 1993, resulting in permanent paralysis from the chest down.

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But Wayne Rainey didn’t stay down.

He reinvented himself for the rest of his journey, managing AMA and GP teams, participating in SuperKart racing, and ultimately birthing the dream that would become MotoAmerica.

I had the opportunity to sit down with Wayne for a few minutes, at the final round of the 2017 MotoAmerica season at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama. What ensued became a candid, insightful conversation, revealing something of the heart and soul of the man.

RB- At what age were you first introduced to motorcycles? How did you ever catch the riding/racing bug?

WR- My father got into soapbox derby, go-cart racing, and then motorcycles. He had a 90cc Yamaha in the mid-60s and was a tinkerer as well as a rider. I was about six years old when I first started riding, on a little Honda Cub. The

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Cub was kind of tall for a six-year-old, so my dad put a seat right where the fuel tank meets that under the bone. Handlebars above me, seat hitting my back, and I was sitting down in it! First time I ever rode it, we were in the garage, and he said, “Keep your foot on the shifter, give it a little gas, and let off the shifter.” I wheelied that thing right into his cabinets! Needless to say, I was a little intimidated, running out of the garage crying!

I came back though.

RB- Indeed you did. When did you first start competing?

WR- I started racing at the age of nine. In Southern California, we had 10 different race tracks and could race seven days a week. A definite hotbed of dirt track racing. We lived 10 miles from Ascot Park, and my dad built bikes to race the Ascot Half-Mile. I’d go with

him every Friday night as a young lad and learned all the riders by name, their numbers, everything about them. I ate, slept, and drank the racing. When I was old enough, I finally got to go do it myself.

RB- You really cut your teeth on the flat track.

WR- Yeah, I didn’t do my first road race until 1980, when I was 20 years old. Never even been on a track before then.

RB- What attracted you to road racing?

WR- I was dirt tracking and Kawasaki wanted to sell KX250 engines to dirt trackers. They had approached Eddie Lawson, asking “Who do you see that we could develop that motor with?” Eddie recommended me, so they reached out to me “We got this engine, we’d like to build a short track chassis out of it.

Will you run it? We’ll buy your tires, pay your gas. ...” and I quickly said, “You got a deal!”

So we went out and had some success with it, and they soon asked, “Have you ever considered road racing?” I had not, never really been interested in it aside from reading about it in the magazines, so they sent me to the Keith Code’s California Superbike School.

I went through the training, progressed pretty quick, and they asked if I wanted to try a race.

So I tried it. I ended up winning 15 of my 16 races! They later contacted me again, saying, “There’s an AMA National race in Loudon, New Hampshire. If you can be there in three days, we’ll have a bike waiting for you.” I was going to race in my first pro 250 novice class. A buddy and I drove cross-country to the race, still with my dirt track leathers and gear. It rained during the race, and I had never ridden the bike, never ridden on this track, never ridden in the rain, and we won the race by 20 seconds! Next day, Kawasaki showed up at the race track with a contract to race Superbikes for them the next two years.

RB- There’s been a lot made of your rivalry with Kevin Schwantz. How did that develop?

Did something happen, or was it just two fierce competitors battling it out across the years for dominance?

WR- Yeah, by that time I guess I was kind of an established guy. Schwantz came along, with a lot of natural talent, and I saw he was going to do whatever it took to beat me. He really raised my game, because I didn’t want him to beat me. We raced each other really hard, much harder than the other guys. I guess we didn’t like each other because we didn’t like how we were treating each other on the track! We were both determined to beat the other. I like to think I got the best of Kevin every single year, but the rivalry certainly made us both better.

RB- You ran for Kenny Robert’s teams a number of years, right?

WR- I ran for him ‘88-93, for six years. We had known each other, and I had started hanging out with him a bit, so he put a team together for me to race in Europe. I ran 250cc bikes my first year with him. Really didn’t think I was ready for it, but we did it, and I got to see the future. Kenny and I really clicked. A lot of my teammates came and went, but there’s no doubt the friendship, the relationship we had was special.

RB- 1984 was a tough year though.

WR- Oh, yeah, I hated it that year, thought Kenny was a prick! We had to push-start the

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bikes, and often by the time we got started, I was like 20 seconds behind the pace car! So not only was I having to catch and pass the pace car, they usually had no idea some weenie was behind them!

And I’d have to listen to him as I was push-starting the bike, yelling, “Push harder, you $!&?-head!” But he pushed me, for sure. Made me a better racer.

RB- It’s uncomfortable for me to bring up, but I watched footage of your fateful crash at Misano in ‘94. A major life change, in every way.

WR- Yes it was.

RB- How did you personally work through that, overcome it, and reinvent yourself?

WR- (pauses to reflect) That was 24 years ago, September 5. So it’s not really that long ago, and yet 24 years is a long time. I’d probably now do a few things differently, but here was this 33-year-old man, world champion, did everything on my own, then suddenly, I needed help going up a step, or grabbing a cup, or anything. The way you do everyday functions, how you get in and out of the car, or the bathroom and shower, the bed, everything changes. The first thing you see in the morning is that wheelchair, and the last thing you see at night is that wheelchair. So it’s become my legs… It was a very tough time.

It took a few years, a lot of mistakes, some deep pockets of grief, but you know, I have a strong faith in the Lord, and that pulled me through, that’s what worked for me.

RB- To me, what you’ve endured, where you are now, only adds to your mission.

WR- Every day we wake up, we have no idea what it holds, where it will take us. Nicky Hayden is a perfect example of that. I just try to live every day to the fullest.

RB- How was the dream for MotoAmerica born?

WR- My partners, Richard Varner and Terry Kargas, were building a motorcycle and through a mutual friend, asked if I would come help.

I was pretty far away from the sport then, but that relationship started me back in the industry, calling my old contacts about parts. This bike had the look of a 1980s road race bike, but in actuality, it was a 2010 Yamaha R1. Back in the sport, I was getting a lot of questions “What’s going on with American road racing?” I still had a relationship with Dorna (the international sanctioning body), so I started thinking, “There’s not many Americans; maybe I should start a young rider series.” Joe Campbell from Laguna Seca asked me, “Why don’t you just fix the AMA racing?” We worked a new deal with DMG, so that’s basically how it all started. It took time to evolve, and it was never something I thought we could achieve, but I figured, unless you go allin and try, you’ll never know. I had the right partners, for sure. Chuck Aksland from my Gran Prix days came onboard, joining Terry and Richard with me, and all these pieces came together at the right time.

So now we are trying to make a go at it, revive American road racing.

RB- Here at the end of your third season, how would you rate the progress?

WR- You know, from where we started, late in 2015, I think our skeptics are now fans! And some of the manufacturers, who thought we’d be gone after three races, see we are still here after three years.

We began with live-streaming on Fans Choice, and now we have live TV with BeIn Sports. We have a good schedule, and we have solid teams. … We think we’re pretty stable now, and with the jump to a full Superbike class in 2018, we’re going to now sell it to the fans.

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RB- What do you see as the future of road racing in America?

WR- I hear racers say, “Oh, we’ll never get back to the level of the Europeans. They’re doing everything we did except they are starting at a younger age. They have more racers, better tracks, etc.” I say, give up that attitude! I tell you what, I’ve said, “Unless you believe you can go over and beat those guys, they’re going to wax you, because you’re going to their house.” We’re Americans. There’s a culture here they will never have. As Americans, we automatically think we need to be better. We’ll soon see the rider who believes in himself, has the natural speed, and the desire to go race in MotoGP, which means racing in Europe, at the highest level. We are trying to make MotoAmerica a competitive championship where, when a racer is ready to make that step, they’ll only have to learn the tracks and the bikes. They’ve already done the racing here.

RB- I’m excited about the future of American road racing, glad you are at the helm of it. I’m not just a writer, I’m a fan.

WR- Well, we appreciate you coming out and supporting us. I hope every time you can come out, you see something new, something exciting.

American Road Racing is back. Check out MotoAmerica on the web, social media, and on BeIn Sports.

Rob Brooks

“It’s a Great Honor to have the Legendary Wayne Rainey in the pages of Born To Ride.” Ron Galletti

Tell us about this movie? It doesn’t seem to be just a biker movie?

Nation’s Fire is an Action/Drama that is very, very different than the stereotypical biker movie.

Biker movies are most notably celebrated or de-celebrated as exploitation films, and this is where Nation’s Fire is different. We have the action, drama, deaths, killings, drugs, and good vs evil; however, there are many elements in this movie that give it a beating heart. We all can relate to the struggles the characters face in this movie; whether you’re a diehard biker or have no clue what a “cc” is, you will relate.

The beating heart in Nation’s Fire is family, loss, strength, redemption, manly underground situations all while secretly celebrating a woman’s true place in the biker community and every other community for that matter ... as I state in the movie, “Our men know we are ride or die chicks.” Nation’s differs from typical exploitation films and societal stereotypes in that we, as biker women, we aren’t victims, we have a voice, we use it,

we love to celebrate our womanly curves AND we ride. We handle our jobs, kids, and family business. We treat others with respect, loyalty, charity, and kindness, but you don’t EVER want to cross us.

This movie is not only an adventure, it is heart and soul, as do many characters. So, to answer your question, no this is not your typical biker movie.

As Gloria Nation, you explode on screen as a true action superstar. How did you get inspired to take on this role?

Wait, you didn’t know I was a freakin’ Action Superstar? Well, now you know my brother!

Haha. In all seriousness, the action is where I excel; it’s what I have always enjoyed and it’s where I’m comfortable. Plus, I’m nuts so it’s a great release for me! I love doing my own stunts! I love the choreography of fighting. I like to throw my kicks … right and left hooks so fast you hear my fist in the wind. I love it.

In movies I have done over the past 17 years, I have often been type-cast for “blonde chick” or rainy tank top roles, which is fine, and many

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

I didn’t take, but I have always had a whole lot more to offer than that. The look I have is the complete opposite of my capabilities and it’s actually kind of fun and funny now that I think about it. I kind of play with people’s emotions with the look almost all people categorize me under and with whom and what I really am.

So all of the aforementioned has inspired me to take on this role, and as a producer, I have the choice as to what I really want to take on vs. what I am only “limited to” take on. Today I make my own offers, I don’t wait for offers.

How was it working with a Hollywood legend like Bruce Dern?

As an actress who has worked so hard for so many years and dealt with so much traumatizing bull while not giving up in this what can be a very ruthless industry, I must say, it was pretty amazing working with Bruce Dern. This guy is one of two villain actors to kill John Wayne in a movie, he’s a classic. Not to mention, he has had two Oscar nominations for “Coming Home” and “Nebraska” and has worked with the greats such as Jack Nicholson, Peter

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Fonda, Alfred Hitchcock, Quentin Tarantino (one of my favs), Billy Bob Thornton, Kirk Douglas and Roger Corman to name a few. It was fascinating to sit in the makeup room and talk to him, he’s been doing this for almost 60 years. I gained strength from his wisdom, his experience and approach on how he makes his roles his own. I enjoyed hearing about the legendary greats he has worked with and inspired; he took me back in my imagination long before my time; to me, moments like that with people are priceless.

Was having the biker community a part of this movie special to you, why?

The biker community always has and always will have a special place in my heart. There is a lot of backstory behind why, and maybe one day I will elaborate on that with you.

The bottom line is, I love the people of the biking community. I’m not close with my blood family, and that’s fine. I’ve been on my own since 14, became a mother at 16. I lived pretty rough and literally slept on bus stop benches before being put in a girl’s home—this is a great script in itself. There wasn’t too much BTR 34 | BORNTORIDE.COM

family support there and that’s ok, they were trying to make it too, I suppose. With fellow bikers, I have just always had a safe feeling of home and acceptance.

Looking back, I know now that God, life, and fate put me with the biker community for a reason. I believe that because seven years ago I got sober, and the irony is, it was due to a couple of 1%ers who told me I was better than the way I was treating myself. They refused to let me take myself down. After many talks with appointed babysitters who made sure I didn’t get into any more trouble, I finally listened and put in the work to get sober. Because someone actually cared enough for me to fight ME for the sake of me, I am living the life of my dreams today. I am forever grateful.

Not only am I grateful, I love what we stand for. As a proud member of The Suncoast Brotherhood, the community and bike groups do so much for those kids who were once like me. We do things for families who struggled like mine … without judging, and without looking for anything in return. The bond within the community is special, the family unit. The

fact that we all can just be ourselves, barefoot and crazy, and not be judged is special.

Just like this movie, amidst the drama and perceived chaos, there is heart, family, and strength.

Working with Born To Ride you have met many bikers, but you have been a part of BTR for many years now and Ron Galletti is so excited to be a part of this project. How has that worked out?

Yes, I have been working with Born To Ride nearly 10 years now. I have seen the dedication, the hard work, and the drive put forth by Ron, Debbie, and the Born To Ride family. Having Ronnie as the creative producer for Nation’s Fire was a no-brainer. We had been throwing around the idea of a biker movie for years and when Writer/Director Thomas J. Churchill came down for the BTR 20th anniversary to promote a movie we did called “Check Point,” which is now available on Netflix, the concept of Nation’s Fire was born. Ron has been instrumental in making this movie larger than life. He is a creative powerhouse: from brilliant ideas on scenes,

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details on characters, on set photography, marketing strategies, business meetings, and priceless behind the scenes interviews with Bruce Dern, Chuck Liddel, Paul Sloan, Kristen Renton, and many more of the cast.

He has provided so many valuable artists, musicians, meetings, product placement, motorcycles, and crew members. He has put together trailers, hours of notes, direction on our post-production, and shot and directed riding footage. The list goes on and on. I am so thankful to Ron for all that he’s done to make Nation’s Fire a reality. I thank Producer Andy Lalino too for his work on Nation’s Fire.

Ron, Thom, and I had a plan from that day over a year ago, and here we are with a 2018 release, an amazing cast and one heck of a movie in the can!

You are executive producer and the main actor in this movie. How does that all work?

What does that all mean? Plus, you are CEO at your real job, tell us about what you do on that job too?

Well, acting is just in my blood, it’s what I do and have done since the days of childhood

remaking “Annie” in my bedroom with my Aunt’s video camera. Executive producer is a whole new animal. With a movie, there are so many moving parts, hundreds of people you are hiring and feeding every day on set. There are SAG union rules that must be abided by or your facing heavy fines, there is the payroll company, the different departments, and all the employees working for you within those departments. There is lots of money to be accurately spent and accounted for.

As executive producer, perspective differs substantially from that as a role of actor. The goal of executive producer is to be certain to get a return on the investment. When we are talking about something as subjective as art— that can be a very scary thing. Thankfully, we have an Oscar-winning producer on board with great experience in distribution. As an actress, my goal is to live as Gloria Nation and deliver the most important performance of my life because that will have a direct impact on the executive producer’s success.

No pressure there! I did not tell any cast on set that I was an executive producer, and that

changes things for talent when they feel more under a microscope. I did not want anyone to act differently around me in any way and it worked out well.

I want to thank my husband Robert Ori and Jerry Roberts for their roles as executive producers, not only are they executives, but Bob brought his mother down from the Midwest for our final day of the shoot. She began cutting the onions and peppers at 4 a.m. Bob and Jerry jumped in the kitchen on the day of Unity Run at Scooter Haven to help Screwie Louie and his team cook for 300 plus people. This just goes to show you the sense of family we had on set; it was a pretty miraculous day. A very special thank you to Screwie Louie’s Scooter Haven!

As far as my company, I am chief executive and founder of TeKnocentric a movie production, aviation software, and gaming company. Because we develop custom software for airports, we decided to continue that along with movie production, hence Nation’s Fire, in addition to gaming (online lifestyle game and casino slots). So, it is

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BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 35

where the arts and sciences procreate. I have always felt that software development is also an art. You create, beginning with an idea and a sketch, much like a movie concept. You then pitch your idea to users, potential investors or clients, elaborate and/or eliminate elements in the software (or story), determine benefit vs risk, and then begin production and go live with test launch or post-production in movie terms.

So all that we do at TeKnocentric goes hand in hand technically. You can find out more on my website teknocentric.com kristagrotte.com & plan-tech.com So you aren’t just another pretty blonde in the movies; you have major brains and true leadership qualities. What can you say to people out there who think they can’t reach their goals or potential dreams? Where is the movie now?

Where and when can we see it?

What I will say to someone who feels they cannot reach their goals is yes, you are right. If you THINK you can’t reach your goals, then you never will. What we think about, we bring about. Change your thinking, change your perspective and start to understand that the true key to success is motivation and gratitude. Start being thankful for the small step you took toward reaching your dream today. Once you are truly grateful for that step, you will subconsciously be inclined to put more emphasis on the next step. Before you know it more steps will come, and they will get bigger with each thank you that you say. You will hit obstacles, that is life, keep going. Before you know it, you will be making giant leaps until you land your dream. It’s really pretty amazing how once we fight through the negative voices in our minds that we are conditioned to believe, how truly simple life really is. The only threatening obstacle we have is ourselves.

Positive or negative: every single thing you focus on grows.

Nation’s Fire is currently in post-production with a 2018 release. The trailer will be available December and on Born To Ride TV! Last words?

Love you all and thank you, thank you, thank you for your support!

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Rider Training & Education Contributes Little to Motorcycle Safety (According to U.S. Safety Experts)

By Matt Danielson, The Motorcycle Law Group

Many reputable groups within the highway safety community have taken the position that motorcycle rider training and education contributes little to motorcycle safety. It is their position that rider education does not have a discernable impact on motorcycle safety, and universal helmet laws are the only reliable method of reducing motorcycle fatalities. Do not take my word for it. Here is what the experts have to say: “While basic rider courses teach important skills, the effectiveness of training as a safety countermeasure to reduce motorcycle crashes is unclear.” (Traffic Safety Facts, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – March 2010) “There is no scientific evidence that motorcycle rider training reduces crash risk and is an adequate substitute for an all-rider helmet law.” (Lethal Loopholes, Advocates for Highway & Auto Safety – January 2015) “Laws requiring all motorcyclists to wear helmets are the only strategy proved to be effective in reducing motorcyclist fatalities.”

(Motorcycle Safety: Increasing Federal Funding Flexibility and Identifying Research Priorities Would Help Support States’ Safety Efforts, U.S. Government Accountability Office – November 2012) “Helmets are the only safety measure proven to save lives.” (Motorcycle Safety:

How to Save Lives and Save Money, Center for Disease Control and Prevention – June 2012) Before I start to get angry emails concerning the value of motorcycle helmets, let me be clear that my purpose in writing this has nothing to do with riders wearing or not wearing motorcycle helmets. I am merely questioning a position shared by many within the highway safety community that dismisses the value of rider education.

Let’s take a look at statistics which can be found on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website: Between 2005 and 2015, the latest year for which we have complete data at this point, motorcycle registrations have increased 38 percent nationwide while motorcycle fatalities per 100,000 registered motorcycles have decreased 21 percent. Additionally, motorcycle vehicle miles traveled have increased 88 percent during that same timeframe, while motorcycle fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled have decreased 42 percent.

Is there an explanation for this sustained decrease in fatalities during this time frame?

We know that between 2005 and 2015 not a single state promulgated a universal helmet law. In fact, one state, Michigan, repealed their universal helmet requirement. What else

Have you been injured in an Accident? Contact our Law Firm1-800-321-8968

could be responsible for this decline?

One possible explanation is that during this time frame there has been an increased emphasis on motorcycle training and education. In fact, 47 states currently have state legislated motorcycle training programs in place, with the remaining three having private programs. I believe that it is likely that having more motorcyclists trained to ride properly and defensively naturally leads to less crashes.

So to all the training instructors out there please accept my hearty thanks for making motorcycling better for all of us.

Matt Danielson McGrath, Danielson, Sorrell & Fuller The Motorcycle Law Group 1-800-321-8968 MotorcycleLawGroup.com

Matt Danielson is a partner at The Motorcycle Law Group, a personal injury law firm whose attorneys all ride motorcycles and practice in VA, NC, SC, GA, and WV. Matt has successfully represented clients in cases from simple property damage to complex multi-million dollar personal injury claims.

He is also a lobbyist, adjunct professor and works with motorcycle rights organizations.

To learn more about The Motorcycle Law Group, visit MotorcycleLawGroup.com.

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Events www.B December 1 Greenville, SC Greenville HarleyDavidson Annual Biker Christmas Party 6pm-9pm. Beer, wine and soft drinks, appetizers and desserts, photos with Santa, live entertainment, free gift wrapping by your local Greenville HOG Chapter, door prizes throughout the night, bring your friends, your family and your camera!

864-234-1340 December 2 Lithia Springs, GA H-D of Atlanta Customization Workshop 10am & 2pm Imagination is the fuel that turns motorcycles into legends. Introducing new Harley-Davidson Parts & Accessories designed to offer even more options to build your one-ofa-kind motorcycle. No reservations necessary. 770-944-1340 December 2 Raleigh, NC Toys for Tots Ride 9am Ray Price Harley-Davidson. Bring a toy to donate to the Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots! Bring a new, unwrapped toy as your admission to ride with us and ride to our Toys for Tots Classic Car & Bike Show at Lone Star Steakhouse in Knightdale!

Chili will be provided for riders! Toys can be dropped off at the Dealership between Nov 1 and Dec 2. 919-8322261 December 2 Myrtle Beach, SC Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson 7th Annual Toy Run 10am. Join Myrtle Beach HarleyDavidson for our Annual Toy Run Ride benefitting Horry County Red Cross! 843-369-5555 December 2 Rock Hill, SC Catawba Indian Toy Run 11am American Legion Post 34.

Please bring a gift valued at $10 or a $10 donation. After the ride there will be entertainment and 50/50 (Rain or Shine). 803-371-4183 December 2 Clarksville, TN Santa photos at BTR4244| |BORNTORIDE.COM BORNTORIDE.COM BTR

Borngreat To Ride market, promote, and your next event; There are Let some events coming up, so getadvertise out there and meet up call with404-788-3907. old friends!

s, Rides & Destinations BornToRide.com/events will be our 4th Annual Coat Chapter will be riding in the and Shoe Ride to help benefit Columbia Parade this year.

Everyone is welcome to ride with local kids in our community.

Your donations will be greatly us. cmaSer6.org appreciated. Visit our Facebook page December 9 Athens, GA 3rd annual Barrow December 10 County Toy Run 9am Cycle Columbia, SC Vets’ 17th annual World of Athens. KSU 11am, ($20 Christmas Charity Ride 11am rider, $10 passenger) or new unwrapped toy. Ride to Winder Carolina Honda Powerhouse. Help Fire Department. Post ride part at bring Christmas to our Veterans at December 3 Asheboro, NC Randolph County Wingmen Nega Clubhouse. 678- Dorn VA Hospital.

Donate a gift, give a Christmas 357-3960 CBA Toy Run 10am Randolph card, make a donation or Mall. One of the largest Toy volunteer.

Whatever you can do to December 9 Runs in NC. Ride goes to Mills help make this a Happier Season Lithia Springs, GA Herb Emory Children Home in Thomasville, for the Vets.

Gates open at 10am Memorial Toys for Tots Drive & police escorted. Ride is free but - Ride leaves at noon. vetRide. please make a monetary donation Bike Ride. 10:30am-6pm Registration for the ride begins at org or bring an unwrapped gift for 10:30am at Harley-Davidson of a teenage boy or girl. Come by even if you don’t ride and make Atlanta. $15 rider/$5 passenger. December 12 Surfside Beach, SC Brunswick Kickstands up at 11am for an a donation then find a spot on County Toy & Poker Run escorted, roundtrip ride around HWY 64 and wave at all the 8:30am Walmart parking lot. scenic Douglas County. Return to motorcycles as they go by.

Fred’s Bar-B-Q House for Santa, Poker run, door prizes, raffle, NASCAR, Helicopters, and WSB food and more. Since 1992 we December 3 have raised $265,000, allowing Personalities. 770-944-1340 Columbia, SC Blue Knights more over 2,100 children to MC Toys for Tots Run 12pm shop at Christmas. We are all December 9 - December 23 Pepsi Cola Bottling Company. volunteers who enjoy bringing Durham, NC Raging Bull H-D Come join 3000 plus riders as happiness and relief to those 2018 Street Glide Street Glide we support the Toys for Tots less fortunate. The volunteers are Giveaway. Come in between program. We will be traveling made up of motorcyclists, classic 12/9-12/23 and try to crack the from the Pepsi bottling plant to car enthusiasts, local churches, code. 919-591-9511 the Colonial Life building. Visit businesses, and concerned our Facebook page citizens of the community. 910December 9 754-5144 Greensboro, NC Brenner December 3 Children’s Hospital Toy Run Greenville, SC Greenville December 14 11am Harley-Davidson of ABATE 32nd annual Christmas Lithia Springs, GA Bike Night w/ Greensboro. Please bring a new Toy Run 12pm 119 Beverly Rd. unwrapped toy to help someone JB Walker 6pm-9pm Atlanta H-D. Line up starts at noon, parade We’re moving the party indoors! leaves at 2pm sharp; led by the less fortunate have a Merry Join us for live music by Parker Fire Department, escorted Christmas. 336-273-1101 hometown favorite, JB Walker.

by Echo Patrol of GCSO. Ride Enjoy FREE Food and FREE December 9 ends at The County Square on BEER*! Sponsored by Lawbike.

University Ridge where the JVC Chapin, SC Toy Run for Boys *please drink responsibly. 770is waiting with a truck to fill and Farm & area children 2pm 944-1340 Boland’s Ace Hardware. Please refreshments. Event to benefit bring unwrapped gift for infant to the Julie Valentine Center.

December 16 age 18. 803-944-6789 Madison, AL Redstone Motorcycle December 4 Swap Meet 9am-5pm Redstone December 9 Columbia, TN Columbia Harley-Davidson. Slide on down Christmas Parade 5pm Hardees. Copperhill, TN Coat & Shoe to Redstone H-D, slap up a Ride 11am Hwy 64 GYM. This The Knights for Christ CMA Appleton Harley-Davidson.

Photos with Santa and Harley Hotties. appletonHarley.com December 2 Franklin, TN Photos with Santa 11am-3pm at Cool Springs Harley-Davidson. The man in red will be here. Come get your free pic taken and enjoy some snacks and hot chocolate. 615-771-7775

To Send submitinand eventomore events visit www.GeorgiaBikeEvents.com yourview events info@BornToRide.com, help us help you.

table and sell some of your old riding gear, motorcycle parts, or assorted biker gadgets with at our monthly Swap Meet. Tables are 10 bucks, and rain or shine, we’ll have some space set aside for you to play in, so come see us! redstoneHarley.com December 16 Moody, AL 3rd Annual Chillbilly Ride 8am First Baptist Church.

Ride includes Parade Lap at Barber Motorsports Park. Rider $20 - Passenger $5 - includes Chili Dinner. The ride benefits the Jimmie Hale Mission. Visit our Facebook page December 16 Athens, GA Cycle World of Athens Free Santa Pictures 11am-3pm.

706-548-3300 December 16 Augusta, GA HOG Berry Center Ride at Timms Harley-Davidson.

706-651-0444 December 16 Augusta, GA Photos with Santa at Timms Harley-Davidson. 706651-0444 December 16 Lithia Springs, GA Santa Lands at Harley-Davidson of Atlanta 11am-3pm. 770-944-1340 December 16 Marietta, GA Holiday Happenings Indian Motorcycle Event 10am6pm Indian Motorcycle & Slingshot of Marietta. Free tacos, free soda, free beer, prizes, swag, live DJ, and sales on apparel. 770-9569577 December 16 Columbia, SC 5th annual Epworth’s Christmas Charity Ride 9:30am Target Columbia Garners Ferry. Please bring a $25 gift card for the kids. Link up at Target on Garners Ferry at 9:30am. Leave BORNTORIDE.COM || BTR BTR 43 45 BORNTORIDE.COM

www.BornToRide.com/events at 10am to deliver cards. Thank you for keeping this event going! Visit our Facebook page

Show in North America. The 2018 Easyriders Bike Show Tour is coming to Charlotte, North Carolina. Featuring the world’s top bike builders, the industry’s top manufacturing Reps showing of all of the industry’s latest products. Live Music from your favorite bands.

800-962-9857

December 16 Franklin, TN Biker Brunch at Cool Springs Harley-Davidson. Join us as the Middle TN HOG Chapter #2715 (Members) serves up pancakes and sausage from 10am-12pm or until gone, and it’s free. We will also have hot coffee and mimosas. 615-771-7775 January 27 Nashville, TN Easyriders 2018 Bike Show Tour at Nashville December 17 Music City Center. The Marietta, GA Holiday Happenings Biggest, Badest Bike Show in Slingshot Event 10am-6pm Indian North America featuring the Motorcycle & Slingshot of Marietta.

World’s Top Bike Builders. The Free tacos, free soda, free beer, Industries Top Manufacturing prizes, swag, live DJ, and sales on Reps Showing of all of the apparel. 770-956-9577 Industries Latest Products Live Music from your favorite January 1 bands. easyRidersEvents.com Columbia, TN Polar Bear Run 23rd annual 9:30am Maury County Senior January 27 - January 28 Citizens Building. Come join us on Atlanta, GA The Great New Year’s Day for the 23rd Annual American Motorcycle Show ‘Polar Bear Run’ motorcycle ride for has been the place to buy charity. The event costs $20 per scorecard to participate, which includes a new motorcycle and the lunch. All vehicles welcome and 100% accessories you need. Join us for Georgia’s BIGGEST indoor of the proceeds will go to a local bike show! The show is full charity Organized by the Knights for of new motorcycles brought Christ CMA Chapter. cmaSer6.org to you by Georgia’s leading dealers. This is your chance January 6 to see what’s new. See & Clover, SC Gaston CBA Polar Bear Run. Fundraiser to benefit the Gaston Compare the New Cycles for CBA (Concerned Bikers Association). 2018 Plus Parts, Accessories, & Everything You Need To Get On The Open Road! Saturday: January 12 - January 14 Gibsonton, FL 15th annual Gibtown 9am-8pm; Sunday: 10amBikefest. Live music, great food, 5pm.770-279-9899 vendors, and more. gibtownBikeWeek.

February 3 com Huntsville, AL 5th Annual VoA RC Polar Bear Dice Run January 20 Diamonds Sports Bar 10am, Concord, NC Easyriders 2018 Bike KSU 11am, LBI 3pm. Best & Show Tour. The Biggest, Baddest Bike

Worst Roll, 50/50, Live Music, food and more, $15 Single $25 2-Up. Proceeds go to benefit the Tutt Fann State Veterans Home. Come on out for a good time, benefiting a good cause. Visit our Facebook page

Track Racing at Calsonic Arena.

Indoor Flat Track Racing: Modern bikes, Hooligan (Street Bikes), Speedway bikes and Vintage/AHRMA bikes. 3/2/’18 Friday Night Practice 6pm to 10 pm. 3/3/’18 Saturday Main Events at 7pm. 256-361-7279

February 15 - February 18 Sarasota, FL Thunder By The Bay. “The Festival Where Rock Meets Country” Born To Ride Kick-off Party, Block Party and more. thunderByTheBay.org

March 8 - March 9 Mobile, AL Daytona Thunder Run at Mobile Bay HarleyDavidson. This is an eight-day run from Harbor City, CA to Daytona Beach, FL. It has many Starting points along the way. You can do a single leg or all eight, its up to you.

All to support the Wounded Warrior Project. Website has registration, News and updates, and Schedule. This is the start of Day 7 DTR, we’ll be going From Mobile Al to Jacksonville FL. We will be going through Pensacola, FL and Tallahassee, FL. If you plan on doing the whole leg, its a long one (418 miles) Start time is also early (7am). daytonaThunderRun.com

February 25 Clarksville, TN 10am Clarksville Speedway & Fairgrounds.

Tennessee’s longest running swap meet. Indoor & outdoor vendors with motorcycles & parts of all kinds. New & vintage parts, jewelry, leather, motor clothes and auto parts; 10x10 indoor\ outdoor spaces available for $40 - Reserve your space now! 931221-9127 March 2 - March 3 McMinnville, TN TCMA Bikers for Change at Pioneer Baptist Church. Bikers for Change conference sets the stage for ministry in the upcoming year. It provides great opportunities for you and your chapter to meet with the Regional Evangelist Randal Tebeau, connect with other CMA’ers, be challenged and refreshed in ministry. In the enriching training sessions, you will work toward accomplishing the vision of changing the world one heart at a time.

March 10 Eight Mile, AL Combat Vet’s Motorcycle Association Poker Run 10am American Legion Post 153. 251-242-0219

March 22 - March 25 Tellico Plains, TN March Moto Madness-Mother Rally. If you love to ride, love to eat, love camping, love spending time with good people, March Moto Madness is for you!

March 2 - March 3 marchMotoMadness.com Shelbyville, TN Lynchburg Flat

Fuel Tank Rusty?

Craig Can Fix It!

On a motorcycle, your fuel tank is the heart and soul of your machine. What do you do when it’s rusty, when it leaks?

Radiator shop over-the-counter stuff?

You know it doesn’t work, try anyways and guess what?

It doesn’t work.

I offer an alternative service for the inside of your tank, I remove all rust clean them out and coat them with epoxy tank liner that’s clear and works, I guarantee it with gasoline and even methanol. I even repair failed Kreme and Redkote liners. Any tank any condition, three day turn around.

I save vintage tanks that leak, rusty tanks that nobody would ever think of using again. I turn them around quickly within three days. Many of the leading motorcycle dealers use me on a regular basis, when you’re tired of cleaning carburetors call Craig.

www.CraigPaintsBikes.com • 813-407-2226

Craven Moorehead A Change in the Season

Well, it’s a brand-new month and I am glad that we are all still here to enjoy it. Lots of stuff happening out here on the street and things get weirder and more dramatic every day, but we all have a lot of good times to look forward to. The upcoming holiday season brings a lot of good opportunities to most all of us, and regardless of the past, we should all revel in the possibilities of a brighter future. I feel that if we just keep believing that it can get better – it will.

Last month, as you will recall, I was writing about the impacts of hurricane Irma and some of the situations that followed with the obvious problems it caused. Last month as I delivered the magazine through Lakeland, I saw the remnants of some of the devastation we endured. I hope everyone is fully made whole again and my heart goes out to all of those folks who lost their homes or property or perhaps even lives of loved ones. Thank God there were very few casualties involved in the storm and there are always situations that we could have better prepared for. Sometimes it’s never enough. I also neglected to mention in last month’s article the appreciation that I have for our Governor Rick Scott and others here in Florida and the US government for helping all of us with food assistance since there were a ton of losses. We were without power for five days and lost a lot of good grub regardless of my luck with getting 40 pounds of ice. I’m sure some lost more than I did but as soon as it was over, existing benefits were paid early and overages were issued.

Kudos to the Governor and all involved in the support effort.

Lately, there have been a lot of really bad things happening.

Hurricane here in Florida, Hurricane and flooding in Texas, another terrible Hurricane in PR, killings in Vegas, fires in California and a myriad of other local news stories that are somewhat shocking.

Biblically it almost appeared that we were in the end times, but I haven’t seen any locusts yet. ... Our president has been very busy, like him or not. I just want everyone to be okay but it it’s beyond my power. Maybe we can get a smooth ride for the rest of the year. I certainly hope so because I really hate to keep writing about bad stuff. Besides, you already know about all of this and don’t wanna hear me continue to yap about it. I have bad news though.

Christmas is right around the corner. For all of you who survive this year’s extended ‘Black Friday’ – may God bless you!

BTR 46 | BORNTORIDE.COM

Halloween has passed, and Thanksgiving is upon us and the usual rituals will certainly be followed and upheld. I have written before about the scenario of families getting together for a nice meal and time together that always ends up in an inevitable fight. Again, I mention that since I have no living family, there is really no one around for me to fight with. You can look at this as a good thing or a bad thing, but to me, it’s just a thing. I do still communicate with my cousins who are still here with us and that simply reminds me there is always an opportunity to carry on regardless of the situation. I hope everyone out there reading this has a great celebration this year and for many more years to come.

Now that the weather has gotten cooler a lot of things are better for all of us. Although the threat of another hurricane or tropical storm has not fully passed, the advent of not having to run the air conditioner all day and night is a major plus! Also, it is a lot cooler in my shop and the other places that I work, so in my opinion, the change in season, albeit a small one makes a big difference.

Yeah, we all live in Florida because of the beautiful weather, but an occasional change in temperature is certainly a welcomed event.

Some have said there is no change in season here, but I think that we as Floridians have learned to notice and embrace the subtle changes.

I kinda have a daily ritual for my own life. Not that I have a lot to do, but there are still the usual chores and the daily grind. I put my dawgs outside during the daytime – when it’s not raining, and they bark, hoot, and howl like there is no tomorrow, sometimes to the dismay and discomfort of the neighbors. I tried to explain it simply to them – “they are celebrating Howl-A-Ween” but I rarely get a positive response out here where I live. In most cases, their dogs are barking more than mine but that’s another story. At least I know that I have a couple of true friends even though they are furry four-legged friends. Doesn’t matter - they still like hanging out with me. Speaking of barking dogs, Born To Ride Radio has had a lot of really good reports and content this past month. Just as the weather got cooler so did we with Everywhere Eddie’s and Lynne’s live report from the Las Vegas Bikefest and a further recap on last week’s show, where we had Steve Hall from WFLA sitting in the studio with us and expounding upon his special take on the news. He is a biker and a consummate radio professional who has been in the business for many years. I am proud to be able to say that Eddie, Lynne, and Steve are actually my human friends and although they only have two legs, they are always there and dedicated just like the dawgs.

You can tune in for the Born To Ride Radio show every Tuesday night from 8 PM till 11 PM at www.BorntoRide.com – damn we are having fun doing it! I know that we have a lot of listeners who are enjoying it also. I always say, “Try it you’ll like it,” so don’t be a turkey, just tune in! Do yourself a favor.

Keep a positive attitude against all adversity, and until next month, speed safely!

CRAVEN Let us know what you think of Craven Moorehead, info@borntoride.com

Christian Motorcyclists Association be able to reach the work. While it may give you a feeling of accomplishment to be able to do some of the work, it sometimes gets frustrating and difficult; hard to get the job done.

Sometimes life can throw hard situations at you, and the solution seems difficult at best. It may be that you disagree with a friend or fellow rider, especially when planning a route. You know that old saying, “Everybody has an opinion!” The difficult part is that there are many ways to get somewhere, and the “right” way may be one of several good ways, but it is hard to agree! Perhaps you are having frustrations on the job, financial, or relationship issues, all of which are aggravating and hard.

The Bible asks us, in Genesis 18:14, “Is anything too hard for the Lord?” We may get discouraged, and even wonder if there is a good solution to the difficulties you come across in life. God already knows the plans He has for you, and He already knows the best solution to that which troubles you.

I have found that the real difficulty is that while God already knows the way out of the hard times you may be facing, too often, we forget to listen. We get so busy telling others about our challenges that we forget to be still and hear God’s voice. See, Jesus faced every challenge and emotion that you or I will ever face, and He had victory over them all! When you call on Him for hope and help and listen carefully, He will have a word of encouragement for you because nothing is too hard for the Lord!

In The Wind, Denny Dingler Check out BornToRide.com for more articles from Christian Motorcyclists Association

God Already Knows the Way Anyone who has tried to work on their own bike has likely had a real learning experience. In theory, it should be possible to order the right part and slip it or bolt it into place. Unfortunately, appearances are deceiving, what should be easy so often is not.

Perhaps you bought some cool sounding slip-ons, only to find out that there is a lot more effort required than loosening a few bolts. Often there are clamps to be dealt with, low clearance for hands and wrenches, and occasional scraped knuckles!

Perhaps you got a modulating or LED headlight and found out how much wiring is hidden behind the headlight, and how difficult it can be to get the mess tucked into the headlight cover. I went to install a light bar underneath the tour pack, along with some LED brake-turn signals and had to install a load equalizer to keep the electrics safe. Sounds easy right? It had to be connected under the seat in the battery compartment that barely has enough room for the battery itself!

Even putting on factory stock parts can be hard, it is sometimes difficult to get the holes lined up and the threading started, and sometimes you have to get into an awkward position in order to BTR 48 | BORNTORIDE.COM