Issuu

AuguST 2026

Mariah

NOT IF, BUT WHEN

Getting back on wasn't about proving I wasn't afraid it was about proving fear didn't get the final say The road hadn't changed, but I had: wiser, more careful, and more grateful Every rider knows it's not if you'll face challenges on the road, but when What defines you isn't the fall it's the decision to get back up, twist the throttle, and ride again.

Recovery isn't a straight road, but every day brings another mile forward Some days the progress is obvious, and some days it's simply finding the strength to keep going. Healing takes patience, grit, and faith that tomorrow can be better than today

I will ride again. It's not if there will be difficult days, but when The comeback will be greater than the setback, because every challenge I overcome is a reminder that strength is built one step at a time. The road is still waiting, and when the time is right, so will I.

COURAGE IS GETTING BACK IN THE SADDLE

We have the largest inventory of motorcycles in the midwest! stop on by today!

Let’s meet Mariah with Rodger Ferris’s

Nick and Dina Gaines, Publishers Publisher@fullthrottle-magazine.com

Nick and Dina Gaines, Editor Editor@fullthrottle-magazine.com

Contributing Writers

B.Blanton, Rocky, Roger Ferris, Dina Gaines, Reine Knobbe, Rich Smalley, John Stephenson Chris Hunter, Mac Iffi Sales Staff

Nick and Dina Gaines

Design and Layout by Monster Graphics

Contributing Photographers

Nick and Dina Gaines

Reine Knobbe, Quinton McLendon, Sven White Robert Blanton

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So, it’s August!

It’s supposed to be the hottest month here in Missouri, Hopefully it will dry up all of the rain we have had this year( oh wait Dina said to quit talking about the rain every single month !!!)

Let’s talk about July and the events we were able to attend ( once again I will not reference the weather)

We had a great Bike Night at The Hideout on Wednesday the 1st , Our cover models Dottie & Tabitha came out and signed magazines for everyone. We took a lot of great pictures, and you can see them all on our Facebook page.

July 3rd was the Annual Fireworks party hosted by our friends Jim & Sherry. An amazing display of Fireworks, outstanding cars and WOW all the food !!!!

Kirkwood threw a great 4th of July fireworks show and we had a front row seat at The Geyer Inn with $6.00 cocktails ($6.00 Cocktails !!!)

On 7/5 we stopped into our friend Angela Snyder’s new restaurant The White Stone Tavern at 5800 Southwest and listened to a talented trio, Pure Nectar. Awesome food and music on Sunday afternoons .....

Back to Bike Night at 21 Rock on 8th with Band X and another fun crowd and a nice rain free evening.....

On Saturday 11th we met up with AFMC for a bike wash at Tenbrook Tavern in Arnold and then everyone got washed! ( Because it Rained !!!!!)

The AFMC are truly fighting for a great cause with Christmas in July for Toys for Tots. Check out their next event on July 25th @ Shirly’s Bar & Grill on hwy 94 St. Charles 100% of the donations go to Toys for Tots.

We also stopped by Hobo’s At The Legion for the first time and I’m telling you the food was awesome and very reasonable. Get the FRIED CHICKEN!

Then, we hit JJ’s Car show. After the weather cleared on Saturday they had a great show..

Sunday the 12th we headed back up to The White Stone Tavern again to see another great band, the True Crime Trio!!!!

Once again, the food was awesome .................... I’m writing this on the 12th so I can get the magazine out early this month.

Let’s roll into August!!!

August 1st, There are two great shows . WCMH Foundation Presents The 4th Annual Hot Rods For HealthCare in Potosi Mo.

The 15th Annual Schaefer Show 2026 in Bellville, Il. @ Shaefer Rod & Custom

This show we never miss. They’re having a Burnout Contest and Handmaid Trophy’s .................

Every Sunday the Sunrise Show -off car cruise is @ Dave’s Diner in Arnold Mo. from 7am-11am

August 7th is the CITYWIDE Food Truck Fridays @ Tower Grove Park 4 pm till sundown Live music by Taylor Streiff & Friends

August 8th, Join our friends the Bad Habit Band for the Red ,White & Blue Party @ The American Legion post 253 in Festus Mo. starting @ 6:00

The Clover Band takes the stage on August 9th at the Town & Country Fair in Washington Mo. from 6pm-10pm

August 15th its Kims Birthday Party with The Infringement Band at Kretzer’s Bar & Grill in Hoyleton, IL.

Pevely Days and Car Show is here again. August 22nd on Pevely Main Street 8am-12pm Always a great event!!!!

The Music City Stones, a Tribute to the Rolling Stones @ The Mill in Granite City on August 29th Doors at 7pm show at 8pm. If you can’t make it to this show try and make it a point to see a show at The Mills its awesome venue !!!!! Ok everyone that’s what I have for August ! We look

to seeing you out and about this month.....

Around

Around Town

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 SATURDAY, AUGUST 22

FRIDAY, AUGUST 28 EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT SATURDAY, AUGUST 29

TUNNEL VISION

FULL THROTTLE – August2026

ByJohnStephenson

In the northwest corner of Michigan lies a 20-mile stretch of pavement that ranks among the most spectacular roads I have ever ridden. It is a road that somehow remained hidden from me for decades, despite my lifelong connection to the Great Lakes State.

Before I tell you about that road, let me tell you how I found it.

In September 2021, my friend Brian and I pointed our Harley-Davidsons north and set out for Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Our destination was Copper Harbor, perched on the northern edge of the Keweenaw Peninsula along the shores of Lake Superior. The goal was simple: avoid the interstates, follow the shoreline whenever possible, and see where the road led us.

Because we were traveling solo "1-up" in biker terms we left the big touring bikes at home. Brian parked his Road Glide, and I left my Ultra Limited in the garage. Instead, we both chose Road Kings for the trip. It proved to be the perfect choice.

The bikes performed flawlessly, aside from one brief moment of excitement when the shifter peg on my Road King decided to part company with the motorcycle while leaving a restaurant in Elk Rapids. Fortunately, we found the runaway parts scattered across the dark pavement, and after a few minutes with a flashlight and toolkit, I was back on the road. It's a good

reminder that those two items should always have a place in your saddlebags.

As with most of my trips, planning the route was half the fun. I spent weeks studying maps and looking for roads that would keep us close to Lake Michigan's shoreline. The route would carry us north through Manistee, Frankfort, Traverse City, Elk Rapids, Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs before eventually crossing into the Upper Peninsula.

Michigan has always held a special place in my heart. From 1969 through 1992, my family spent every August at our cottage in Grand Haven, perched along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. Even after the cottage was sold, family vacations to Grand Haven continued. In many ways, Michigan feels as much like home as Missouri.

That history is why I was surprised to discover a road called the Tunnel of Trees. I had somehow never heard of it. For a motorcyclist, discovering a legendary road hidden in a place you thought you knew is a little like finding a forgotten treasure map.

Our journey north was filled with memorable stops. We paused at Inspiration Point overlooking the Arcadia Dunes. We rode through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and stood high above the shoreline taking in views that seemed to stretch forever. In Fr ankfort, we discovered every restaurant in town was closed, forcing us to improvise lunch at Port City Smokehouse, a butcher shop serving some remarkably good carryout food.

Then we arrived at M-119.

Officially designated Michigan 119, this narrow ribbon of pavement runs between Harbor Springs and Cross Village. Known simply as the Tunnel of Trees, it follows the shoreline of Lake Michigan while winding beneath a dense canopy of maple, oak, birch, and cedar.

The road feels alive.

The branches arch overhead, filtering sunlight into shifting patterns that dance across the pavement. Every curve reveals another glimpse of blue water, another bluff overlooking the lake, or another beautifully preserved home tucked among the trees. The r oad is narrow and intimate, demanding your attention while rewarding you with one postcard view after another. On a perfect September afternoon, it felt like riding through a cathedral built by nature.

M-119 follows an ancient Ottawa trail and is recognized as one of Michigan's Pure Michigan Byways. The route was originally designated M-131 before becoming M-119 in 1979. Roughly halfway between Harbor Springs and Cross Village sits the tiny community of Good Hart, home to the famous Good Hart General Store. The store is known for its pies, cookies, sandwiches, and pizzas, and has become a favorite stop for motorcyclists exploring northern Michigan. Eventually, the trees begin to thin and the tunnel opens.

That's when Cross Village appears. On the left side of the road stands the historic Legs Inn, a Polish restaurant and lodge built in 1930 by Stanley Smolak using local stone and timber. Smolak spent nearly four decades expanding and refining the property, creating one of Michigan's most

distinctive landmarks. It's worth the ride for the architecture alone. Add a cold Polish draft beer, a plate of authentic Polish sausage, and a view overlooking Lake Michigan, and you have all the ingredients for a perfect motorcycle stop.

The Tunnel of Trees was only the beginning.

From Cross Village, we continued north, crossing the fivemile Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula. We followed US-2 along the northern shore of Lake Michigan before turning north on M-77 to Grand Marais. From there, H-58 carried us through the stunning landscapes surrounding Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and onward to Munising.

The farther north we traveled, the better the roads became.

"Sometimes the best roads aren't the ones you've planned to ride they're the ones you never knew existed until the day you find them. Those unexpectedmilesarewhatmakearoadtruly Roads Worthy." – JohnStephenson

Eventually, M-28 and US-41 delivered us to Copper Harbor, where Lake Superior stretched to the horizon and the pavement seemed to simply run out of continent.

One of our favorite discoveries came in Houghton, where we stumbled upon The Ambassador restaurant and sampled a local Upper Peninsula specialty the Cudighi sandwich paired with cold Keweenaw Brewing Company beer.

By the time we rolled back into Missouri nine days later, we had covered nearly 1,950 miles.

The Tunnel of Trees may have been the road that inspired the trip's title, but it wasn't the only highlight. The journey delivered spectacular scenery, unforgettable roads, and the kind of discoveries that keep motorcyclists studying maps long after a trip ends.

That's the beauty of riding.

No matter how many miles you've traveled or how many places you've visited, there's always another road waiting just beyond the horizon.

Until next time, I’ll be out chasing more RoadsWorthy – itfeedsmysoul.

Owner: Roger Ferris

Photos: John Krick

Model: Mariah

Summer is one of the best times of the year to ride a Harley-Davidson. Long daylight hours, scenic roads, and warm weather create the perfect conditions for weekend adventures and cross-country road trips. However, the same sunshine that makes riding enjoyable can also present challenges for both you and your motorcycle. High temperatures increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, engine stress, and tire problems. With a little preparation and smart riding habits, you can stay safe, comfortable, and keep your Harley performing at its best all summer long.

Keeping Yourself Cool

The most important part of any ride is the rider. Heat can sneak up on you quickly, especially when you’re wearing protective riding gear. Staying hydrated is the first step to preventing heat-related illnesses. Drink plenty of water before you leave, continue drinking during fuel or rest stops, and avoid waiting until you feel thirsty. Consider carrying a hydration backpack for longer rides so you can sip water while you’re on the road.

Your riding gear also plays a major role in staying cool. While it may be tempting to wear a T-shirt and shorts, proper protective gear is always the safest choice. Modern mesh jackets with armor provide excellent airflow while protecting you in the event of an accident. Pair them with lightweight riding pants, ventilated gloves, and a helmet with adjustable vents to maximize cooling. Moisture-wicking base layers can also help regulate body temperature by pulling sweat away from your skin.

Plan your rides around the hottest part of the day whenever possible. Early morning and evening rides are often cooler, more comfortable, and easier on both rider and motorcycle. If you’re traveling during peak afternoon heat, take frequent breaks in shaded areas or air-conditioned buildings. A quick 15-minute rest can help lower your body temperature and improve your concentration.

Recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion is equally important. Symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating, headache, muscle cramps, or confusion should never be ignored. If you begin to feel overheated, pull over safely, move into the shade, drink cool water, and allow your body time to recover before continuing your ride.

Keeping Your Harley-Davidson Cool

Your Harley-Davidson is built for long-distance touring and warm-weather riding, but even the toughest machines appreciate a little extra attention during the hottest months.

Before every ride, check your engine oil level. Oil not only lubricates moving parts but also helps carry heat away from the engine. Using the correct oil recommended for your Harley and changing it at the proper intervals ensures maximum protection during high-temperature riding.

Pay attention to engine temperature, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Air-cooled Harley engines rely on airflow to remove heat, so prolonged idling in traffic can cause temperatures to rise significantly. If traffic comes to a complete standstill for an extended period, consider safely shutting the engine off until vehicles begin moving again. Once you’re back on the road, consistent airflow helps cool the engine naturally.

Keep the cooling fins on your cylinders clean. Dirt, bugs, and road grime can reduce their ability to dissipate heat. A gentle cleaning after rides helps maintain efficient cooling while keeping your motorcycle looking its best.

Your tires deserve extra attention during summer as well. Hot pavement can increase tire temperatures dramatically, affecting pressure and handling. Check tire pressure before every ride while the tires are cold, and inspect them for cracks, excessive wear, or embedded debris. Properly inflated tires improve handling, braking, and overall safety.

Battery maintenance is another often-overlooked summer task. High temperatures can accelerate battery fluid loss and shorten battery life. Inspect battery terminals for corrosion and ensure all electrical connections remain clean and tight.

Parking in direct sunlight can make your seat unbearably hot and increase fuel evaporation. Whenever possible, park in the shade or use a motorcycle cover designed to reflect sunlight while allowing heat to escape. A reflective seat cover can also make mounting your bike much more comfortable after it’s been sitting in the sun.

Staying Cool: How to Keep Yourself and Your Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Comfortable During the Summer

Smart Summer Riding Tips

Summer roads are often busier with vacation travelers, construction zones, and recreational traffic. Stay alert, maintain a safe following distance, and expect the unexpected. Road surfaces can become slick from melted tar, oil, or sudden summer rain showers, so smooth throttle control and gradual braking are especially important.

Pack a small summer emergency kit that includes bottled water, sunscreen, lip balm, a cooling towel, sunglasses, and a basic first-aid kit. These simple items can make a significant difference if your ride takes longer than expected.

Finally, don’t forget about your own comfort. A windshield can reduce fatigue by deflecting hot wind, while cruise control on touring models allows you to relax your throttle hand during long highway stretches. Taking care of yourself makes every mile more enjoyable.

Enjoy the Ride

Summer is made for Harley-Davidson riders. Whether you’re cruising through the countryside, attending motorcycle rallies, or exploring new back roads, a little preparation goes a long way. By staying hydrated, wearing proper riding gear, maintaining your motorcycle, and respecting the effects of extreme heat, you’ll enjoy safer, more comfortable rides all season long.

The open road is calling. Keep yourself cool, keep your Harley running strong, and enjoy every mile of summer riding. Ride smart, ride safe, and make the most of the season.

Rocky - St Charles Harley Davidson

ARAGON: The Next Generation of St. Louis Rock

In 2023, after being mentored by some of the top musicians connected to St. Louis' School of Rock community, four teenagers came together through a shared passion for music. That's when ARAGON was born.

What started as a group of young musicians honing their craft quickly turned into one of the most talked-about up -and- coming acts in the St. Louis rock scene. Watching them perform, it's easy to forget their age. ARAGON plays with the conﬁdence, stage presence, and chemistry of a band that's been together for years.

It's exciting to see a new wave of young rock musicians making noise around St. Louis, and ARAGON is leading the charge. Their sound is loud, energetic, rock 'n' roll.

The band currently performs rock and metal covers spanning the 1970s through today, but they're also putting serious work into writing original music. As they continue gaining studio experience, each member is pushing the others to grow, and the results are starting to show.

ARAGON's ﬁrst original recording, Kiss the Sky, was released on Spotify. The track delivered plenty of crunch and showcased the band's early songwriting potential. It was written collaboratively with help from bassist Sam Engel's father, Doug Engel, a longtime St. Louis musician and member of Torchlight Parade. While the band is proud of Kiss the Sky, they are also excited to get back in the studio to continue working on new songs to reﬁne their identity and develop their own unique sound.

ARAGON's powerful rhythm section features 17-year- old guitarist and backing vocalist Zion Voegtlin, hard-hitting drummer Gavin Martin, 17, and bassist Sam Englel also17, whose stage presence and showmanship bring extra energy to every performance.

Completing the lineup is 16-year- old guitarist and lead vocalist Aislynn Spraul. Her soaring guitar leads and powerful vocals help deﬁne ARAGON's sound, making her a standout fronting the band every time she takes the stage.

Aislynn's love of Rush led to one of the band's earliest big breaks. ARAGON was invited onto the KSHE 95 morning show with AD Roundtree to help raise money for a trip to Chicago so she could see her favorite band. Performing Rush's classic Working Man live on the air gave ARAGON valuable exposure, and performance opportunities soon followed. With KSHE continuing to support and promote the band, Aislynn eventually made the trip to Chicago using money she earned from gigs.

The band's dedication to rehearsing and improving is paying off. This year, ARAGON performed at Grafton Bike Week and received an enthusiastic response from the crowd, earning an invitation to return next year as headliner. It’s exciting to imagine where they'll be after another year of growth.

One thing is clear: these talented young musicians aren't waiting for their shot. They're creating it. With passion, hard work, and undeniable talent, ARAGON is taking St. Louis and the surrounding area by storm. They have also had venues from seven different states submit performance inquiries in the last month. If you get the chance to see them live, don't miss it. ARAGON isn't just a promising young band. They're a rock experience.

Rich Smalley

Tech Tips with Mac!!!!

Mastering Motorcycle Riding: Essential Techniques for the Open Road

By Mac, @Iron Motorcycle Performance

As summer descends upon Missouri, the allure of open roads and scenic routes becomes irresistible for motorcycle enthusiasts. Riding is not just about the thrill; it’s also about safety and skill. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned veteran, there are always lessons to be learned. To ensure your rides remain enjoyable and safe, here are some essential techniques for navigating curves on your Harley.

1. Look Through the Curve

Your gaze should always lead the way. Focus on the exit point of the curve rather than what’s immediately in front of you. This technique not only aids in steering but also helps maintain your balance. Remember, your body tends to follow where your eyes look. Those who have found themselves in a ditch can attest—the last thing they saw was that very ditch.

2. Taking Proper Lines

When cruising on backroads, avoid riding side by side. Opt for a staggered formation instead. This allows you to take the proper lines when cornering. Before entering a curve, ensure you’ve scrubbed off enough speed. As you approach, maintain no more than half throttle, starting on the high side of the turn. As you reach the apex, smoothly transition to the low side, and accelerate out of the curve, returning to the high side.

3. Throttle Control

Smooth and gentle application of the throttle is crucial. Accelerate gently as you enter the curve and either maintain or slightly increase your throttle as you exit. This technique stabilizes your bike and enhances control.

4. Braking

If you need to reduce your speed, do so before you enter the curve. Utilize downshifting and apply both front and rear brakes evenly. Avoid heavy braking while leaning, as this can shift the bike’s weight and lead to loss of traction.

5. Countersteering

To initiate a turn, gently push the handlebar on the side you wish to lean towards. This technique helps your bike lean effectively into the curve, making for a smoother ride.

6. Stay Relaxed

A relaxed grip on the handlebars is essential. Tension can lead to fatigue and compromise your control over the bike. Keep your spine straight and avoid leaning off to one side; it won’t enhance your turning ability.

7. Know Your Limits

Always ride within your skill level. Never let someone push you to ride outside your comfort zone. Be mindful of road conditions; slippery or uneven surfaces can significantly alter how your bike handles in a curve.

I hope this helps. As always, thanks for taking the time to read the article. If there is a topic you would like more info on, feel free to email us at Sales@IronMotorcyclePerformance.com and put “Tech Article” in the subject line.Mac

Mac