Midwest Motorcycist(tm)), March 2016 issue

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Midwest Motorcyclist

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IN THIS ISSUE…..

Columns 5 7 13 16 17

To Our Readers, Correction Safer Riding: Highside vs Lowside Crashes by Pat Armitage A Few Points About Points by Jason Waechter Motorcycling & Law: Profiling Against Motorcyclists by Dondi Vesprini The Preacher Speaks About... Tech Talk About Exhaust Systems by Franz Hoffer

Features, News & Reviews cc media publications

This Month’s Contributors: Contributing Editors Pat Armitage, Franz Hoffer plus

Ian Orr, Gene Southard, Dondi Vesprini, Jason Waechter

6 12 14

Exclusive Profile: Gregg Mitchell, Fast Guy / Club Builder by Ray Peabody David Allen Racing Motorsports Rises from the Ashes of Devastating Fire Book Review: Malcolm!, The Autobiography by Gene Southard

Resources 5 14 17

Advertiser Index Event Schedule Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Event Schedule

Large cover photo: Gregg Mitchell, former Michigan Squadron State Director, taking a break during a Motorcycle Sport Touring Association (MSTA) riding event. Photo by Ian Orr, MSTA- MI Newsletter Editor.

Get Ready for Spring New Shipment of Saddlebags & Travel Bags!

Publisher/Managing Editor

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Over 30 Styles of Saddlebags to Choose From!

Advertising Sales/ Web Master / Distribution Ray Peabody publisher@midwestmotorcyclist.com rpeabody@sbcglobal.net

Over 30 Styles of Tank Bags & Sissy Bar Bags to Choose From!

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>>>>>New Items for Spring Arriving Weekly<<<<< How to contact us: 709 Fall Street Spring Lake, Michigan 49456 (810) 923-8738 www.midwestmotorcyclist.com Copyright 1998-2016 cc media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, photocopied, or electronically transmitted without the expressed written permission of the publisher. Advertisers, their agents, contributors of event information, free-lance contributors and/or editorial contributors will defend, indemnify and hold cc media and RTP Enterprises, Inc. harmless in any claims of libel, copyright or trademark infringement, plagiarism, violation of local, national, or international privacy laws and any other claim or suit that may arise subsequent to publication of said advertisement, stories, event information, and/or editorial. Submission of material for consideration for publication in Michigan Motorcyclist/Midwest Motorcyclist, American CycleRider either solicited or unsolicited, constitutes agreement to these terms. Except for the Publisher and Managing Editor, all writers are free-lance contributors. Any and all opinions expressed are those of the authors, and don’t necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

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March 2016

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17, 18, 19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Retail Warehouse .........................4, 5 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Sandy’s H-D .........................

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Advertiser Index

Springtime greetings from the world headquarters of Midwest Motorcyclist™ / Michigan Motorcyclist®. The 2016 riding season is fast approaching and we’re ready to ride.

This month, we’re featuring a profile of Gregg Mitchell, formerly the Michigan State Director for the Motorcycle Sport Touring Association. Gregg, with the help of many members, has built the club into one of the more successful - in terms of both membership and participation – motorcycle groups in the State. Check out our story to learn a little about the background and leadership style that have contributed to his success.

Pat Armitage is back with another of his Safer Riding columns. This month he defines a couple of terms – Highside and Lowside Crashes - that we often hear but some might not fully understand. If you’ve ever questioned the meaning of either of these terms, be sure to check out Pat’s column this month.

Franz “The Preacher” Hoffer offers a Tech Talk about how exhaust systems can impact performance. Loud pipes might not save lives but they can improve engine performance. For details, check out Franz’s conversation with Jerry B of Jerry B’s Cycle Works in this issue.

There’s a lot more in this issue. The event schedule is already starting to grow with plenty of solid events coming up in the near term. We have other news and information as well.

Thank you for reading. Feel free to share this copy with your family or friends or point them to the online versions at www.midwestmotorcyclist.com. Please buy from our advertisers. They pay the bills around here. They will appreciate it and so will we.

Have fun as the winter winds down. Hope to see you at an upcoming event or out on the road,

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Strong leadership and member participation are the keys to any successful association, motorcyclerelated or otherwise. Some are more successful than others in finding the right combination. More often than not, it’s a request from the leader to a member take over the leadership role that changes the direction and success of the club. Such was the case with Gregg Mitchell.

Gregg began riding at 14. (He crashed his friend’s Honda 50 in front of a police officer on his first ride.) AFter buying a Gilera 125, he rode 12 months a year all the way through high school.

He stopped riding only after he was married and had kids of his own.

In 1982, he moved to Texas and decided to get back into riding. He bought a Honda Shadow before moving

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

up to a Magna. People who know this guy might be surprised that he ever rode, much less owned, a cruiser. He kept that bike for years eventually taking it with him to Massachusetts.

As sons will, Gregg’s son took up riding despite his father’s objections.

In 1991, that son was killed on his motorcycle when an oncoming driver turned left in front of him. Gregg was devastated. He stopped riding for several years.

He eventually moved from Massachusetts to Plymouth, Michigan and then later from Plymouth to Rochester. It was during that last move that he began to reconsider riding.

Gregg needed to get his Magna to Rochester and decided to ride the bike to his new home. A ride to the Upper

Continued on page 8

March 2016

Safer Riding

Highside vs Lowside Crashes

By Patrick Armitage

Many times, when I read articles in motorcycle magazines, I find an author writing about “Highside”or, “Lowside” crashes, and most often it is assumed by the author that the reader knows what these terms mean. I have been asked about these terms often enough that I know there are many people who are confused as to what these terms actually mean. I thought it would be worthwhile to devote an article on this subject, and explain both terms in detail.

A “Highside Crash” occurs most often when the motorcycle is leaned over, and traction is momentarily interrupted. A tire begins to slide out, and when traction is restored, the sliding wheel, (usually the rear) snaps back in line with the front wheel. This causes the chassis to quickly straighten up from the lean. The rider is often tossed off, in the direction opposite of the original lean, over the “High Side” This can happen in a number of ways. The most common causes include: 1) When leaned over in a curve the rider applies too much power, too abruptly. The rear tire loses traction and slides out. As the rear tire slides out, the rider snaps off the throttle and the tire stops sliding. The rear wheel quickly snaps back in line with the front tire, tossing the rider over the “High Side.”

2) During an emergency braking situation, it is easy to over brake and skid the rear wheel. If the rear wheel begins to fishtail, and the rider releases the rear brake, the tire stops skidding and begins rolling. If the fishtail angle was too great when the rear wheel snaps back in line with the front wheel, the rider is tossed off, over the “High Side.”

3) Again during emergency braking, the front wheel slides out; typically caused by grabbing instead of progressively squeezing the front brake. If the front wheel has slid out far enough, and doesn’t continue to slide when the rider releases the front brake, the front wheel snaps back, tossing the rider 2012 BMW K 1600 GT, off the “High Side.”

out far enough to snap back, instead of continuing the slide; the rider is tossed off the “High Side.”

Highside or Lowside? My advice is, DONT BRAKE AND SWERVE SIMULTANEOUSLY!

Highside crashes are quick, violent crashes that often end with serious injuries. The rider often lands on their head and shoulder. Head, shoulder, and collarbone injuries are common.

A “Low Side” crash occurs most often, when the motorcycle is leaned over. The limits of traction are exceeded; traction is interrupted and not restored. The tire slides out, and continues to slide, until the rider crashes. It is difficult to recover from this situation. Once the tire starts to slide, the motorcycle will usually crash, quickly. This results in the rider falling in the direction of the original lean, the “Low Side.” The most common causes of a “Low Side” crash are:

Both brake and swerve situations are common crashes, and are the origin of the common “Old Biker’s Story” (Old B.S.) “I saw I was going to crash so, I had to lay the bike down.” The storyteller braked and swerved simultaneously and the bike layed itself down. Deliberately crashing, to avoid a crash, is a poor accident avoidance technique.

If you need to maximum brake in a curve, you must straighten your path, then maximum brake.

A steady throttle roll-on is the correct technique in a curve. The throttle must be smoothly rolled on, and not overdone.

Of course, there are some other situations that can cause either type of crash. The ones I have discussed are just some of the most common ones.

I hope this helps you to understand the meaning, as well as the causes of both Highside and Lowside crashes.

1) While leaned over in a curve, the rider applies too much power, too quickly. The rear tire loses traction, and slides out. Over braking the rear wheel while leaned over in a curve will have the same effect. If it continues to slide, the rider falls, to the “Low Side.”

Ride Safe, Pat Armitage

2) While leaned over in a curve the front wheel loses traction, and slides out. This happens when the limits of traction are exceeded. Over braking the front wheel while leaned over, or taking the curve at too high a speed can have this effect. Again the rider falls to the “Low Side.”

3) In an emergency braking situation, the rider brakes and swerves simultaneously. If the either wheel skids, and continues to slide, the rider will crash, to the “Low Side.” A rider can brake, or swerve, but not both simultaneously.

Notice that either “brake and swerve scenario” results in a crash. The only choice you have is:

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4) During an emergency swerve, if the rider brakes and swerves simultaneously, one, or both wheels will likely slide. This can, and usually does, cause a crash. If the rider releases the front brake during the skid, and if it has slid out just far enough to snap back, instead of continuing the slide, the rider is tossed off in a “High Side.” During a swerve, the rear wheel is over braked. If the rider releases the rear brake and the wheel has slid

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Continued from page 6 Peninsula with a friend from Texas was enough to reignite his passion for riding.

He eventually traded his Magna for a Honda ST1100 at Anderson’s Honda in Bloomfield Hills. He had heard about the Honda Sport Touring Association (HSTA) and joined the group in 1995. At that time, the club had 55 members but only 16 or so would show up for the monthly meetings at a local Big Boy. The meetings mostly consisted of kicking tires in the parking lot after breakfast. The Michigan Squadron had only occasional rides in those days.

In 1998, Michigan State Director Doug Pippen announced that he was retiring from his leadership role and moving south. He asked Gregg to take over and he agreed.

Not long after assuming the directorship, Gregg moved the meetings to Kerby’s Koney Island in Farmington Hills, Michigan. The restaurant had a separate room available for no charge in which to hold meetings but Gregg had to guarantee that at least 20 people would attend and buy breakfast or he would have to pay a $25 fee. Despite the fact that the group never had 20 people attending the previous meetings, he agreed. Gregg figured that, with membership up to 68 members, he should be able to get at least 20 people to attend the meetings. He was right.

Membership continued to grow as did attendance at the meetings. By the time the Michigan Squadron moved to Karl’s Kabin in Plymouth, Michigan, membership had grown to 100 with 40 people attending each meeting.

I joined the HSTA during the period when meetings were held at Kerby’s. What I found were well organized, fun meetings. Gregg kept the meetings on track and on time. There was an ongoing, friendly banter between him and the other members throughout the meeting. The other members were friendly and welcoming.

The group didn’t seem to have any of the political intrigue that so many clubs, regardless of size, suffer. That atmosphere continued even as the Michigan Squadron grew.

There are a number of reasons that the club grew – members introducing new prospects to the club, members creating appealing riding events in Michigan and surrounding states, etc. – but I attribute much of the Squadron’s growth to Gregg’s leadership.

As a volunteer, he spent many hours preparing for meetings, creating and distributing the newsletter, participating in meetings with the

national organization, and managing the membership database not to mention planning and organizing two of the Squadron’s annual events. But despite all of his hard work in growing the club, he gives credit to one of the members when membership exploded in 2007 after the HSTA changed its name to the Motorcycle Sport Touring Association (MSTA).

John Horner, owner of BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan, was a member of HSTA but had told Gregg that he couldn’t do much to help promote the club as long as it was known as the HSTA. Once the name changed, Mr. Horner got more involved and began promoting the club to his customers. As a result, Michigan Squadron has enjoyed double digit growth every year since 2007 with 150 riders joining in the last three years.

Membership is currently at 260 and the monthly meetings regularly attract 80 to 100 people.

The Michigan Squadron is the largest in the MSTA. Michigan members attend State, regional, and national events in numbers far greater than any of the other MSTA squadrons. These are riding events unlike those of any other motorcycle organization. Attendees get up early, ride all day, and then rejoin the group in the evenings to kick tires. As Gregg says, “the riding is the reason for the event.”

As the club has grown, new members are eager to get involved in leadership. Gregg knows that new blood is essential for any organization to continue to appeal to riders. When Bart Reiter and Augie Fernandez stood up to take over the Squadron as Co-Directors and Ian Orr offered to take over the newsletter late last year, Gregg knew it was time to let others lead. He resigned as State Director at the end of December.

Mr. Mitchell now has more time to ride his three Aprilias, three Ducatis and one Suzuki. Most are pure sportbikes with a naked model and a pseudo adventure bike included for some riding diversity. He is an experienced, skilled rider who is also well trained, having participated in numerous rider training schools such as the California Superbike School as well as more track days than can be counted.

He will continue participating in MSTA events without having responsibility for managing what has become one of the most successful motorcycle clubs in Michigan.

It’s not difficult to see the impact Gregg has had on the club.

Attend any of the meetings and you’ll see the affection the membership has for their long-time leader. Other motorcycle clubs should be so lucky as to have a guy or gal like Gregg in leadership.

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS The advertisers in this magazine help us bring you a quality publication.

Please buy their products and use their services.

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March 2016

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Sport Touring is Our Middle Name!

We Ride! ...All Makes of Bikes ...All Over the Country ...On Back Roads ...On Racetracks ...At Novice-Advanced Levels ...In Our Sleep!

Our members come from all across the Midwest (and beyond) and we ride many makes of street bikes - including: • Aprilia • BMW • Buell • Ducati

• Harley-Davidson • Honda • Kawasaki

• Suzuki • Triumph • Yamaha ....and brands in between

We travel to great riding destinations close by and far away. We learn to be better riders. We share camaraderie and a common passion: The Passion To Ride!

For information about membership, meetings, events or rides, contact the MSTA group in your state: In Michigan, contact: Bart Reiter banjobart@aol.com

In Indiana, contact: Don Payne don.payne@gmail.com

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Midwest Motorcyclist

11

David Allen Racing Rises From the Ashes of Devastating Fire

Sponsored by

Fremont, Michigan – Fire swept through David Allen Racing Motorsports (formerly Powers Motorsports) in the evening hours on November 14, 2014.

The showroom and service area were destroyed. 30 motorcycles and 52 other units (ATVs, UTVs, snowmobiles, etc.) were lost as were all of the parts and accessories.

The only part of the building left standing was the cold storage area.

While many business owners might have closed for good after such an event, David Allen was committed to his dealership. The store remained open for business, operating out of the cold storage area that escaped the fire.

A year later, on November 21, 2015, the store re-opened. A new, wideopen 12,000 square foot showroom provided the dealership with sufficient space to display the full-lines of motorcycles, ATVs and snowmobiles from Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Polaris, Victory and Ski-Doo not to mention a wide variety of apparel and accessories.

The dealership, which has historically

Pre-Owned Motorcycles 2015 BMW F 700 GS, Alpine White, 10 miles, $11,080 2015 BMW F 700 GS, Black Met/Red, 10 miles, $10,685 2015 BMW F 700 GS, Racing Blue Matt, 10 miles, $10,735 2015 BMW F 800 GS, White/Black Storm, $12,190 2015 BMW F 800 R, Blue Met Matt, 1,900 miles, $8,950 2015 BMW R nineT , Black Storm, 1,500 miles, $12,448.25 2015 BMW R 1200 GS, BLACK STORM, 12 miles, $18,860 2014 BMW G 650 GS, DEEP BLACK, 794 miles, $7,450 2014 Ducati Hyperstrada, IVORY, 1,700 miles, $8,950 2013 BMW K 1600 GTL, DAMASK RED , 10,000 miles, $18,950 2013 BMW R 1200 R, 6,300 miles, $10,950 2012 BMW F 800 GS Triple Black, BLACK, 8,904 miles, $8,950 2012 BMW K 1600 GTL, ROYAL BLUE, 18,000 miles, $17,450 2012 BMW K 1600 GTL, Blue, 22,000 miles, $17,750 2012 Suzuki GSX™ R750, YELLOW, 13,656 miles, $7,450 2012 Triumph Speed Triple R, BLACK, 7,588 miles, $7,950 2010 BMW F 800 ST, BLUE, 18,600 miles, $7,950 2009 BMW K 1200 LT, Black , 72,000 miles, $8,950 2009 BMW R 1200 GS, SILVER, 62,000 miles, $8,950 2009 Yamaha V Star® 1300, WHITE, 22,000 miles, $4,950

focused on dirt riders, is recommitting their sales efforts to better serve street riders with a wide variety of street bikes, apparel and accessories. More than 3,000 people attended the Grand Re-Opening.

David Allen and General Manager Brandon Gerth have big plans to rebuild the dealership’s customer base.

They plan to offer free hot dogs, chips, and a drink on Saturdays through Labor Day. They’re in the process of developing a Customer Loyalty Program in which points are earned on all purchases that can be applied to future purchases. Finally, they plan to hold a variety of events and demo rides to help draw riders to the dealership.

For more information about the dealership, their products or upcoming events, visit the store at 11995 N. Maple Island Road in Fremont, give them a call at (800) 924-1921, or check out the DAR website at www.darmotorsports.com.

You can also find information about David Allen’s original store, located at 1951 N 24th Avenue in Mears, Michigan, by calling toll free at (888) 873-4047.

Largest Inventory of pre-owned BMW Motorcycles in the Midwest!

2007 BMW F 800 S, Yellow, 14,000 miles, $5,950 2007 BMW K 1200 GT, CRYSTAL GREY, 41,325 miles, $7,950 2007 BMW K 1200 R Sport, 52,562 miles, $6,950 2007 BMW R 1200 R, Grey, 24,286 miles, $7,950 2006 BMW K 1200 LT, Graphite, 40,017 miles, $17,950 2006 BMW R 1200 RT, GREY, 37,408 miles, $8,450 2006 BMW R 1200 RT, Graphite , 62,682 miles, $7,950 2005 BMW K 1200 LT, Graphite, 45,425 miles, $7,450 2005 BMW K 1200 LT, 8,487 miles, $7,995 2005 BMW R 1200 GS, BLUE, 131,000 miles, $5,950 2005 BMW R 1200 RT, Red, 71,444 miles, $7,750 2005 BMW R 1200 RT, Red, 71,000 miles, $7,750 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan® 750, BLACK, 26,064 miles, $1,495 as is 2004 BMW R 1200 CL Custom, BLACK MET, 33,924 miles, $6,950 2003 Honda® GL1800 Goldwing, BLACK, 63,007 miles, $9,450 2002 BMW K1200LT , Silver, 70,002 miles, $5,950 2002 BMW K1200RS, GREY/RED, 99,526 miles, $3,950 1992 BMW K75RT, BLACK, 43,918 miles, $3,450 1981 BMW R 100 RT, Smoke Red, 117,366 miles, $1,750 as is

BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids, 5995 South Division, Grand Rapids, MI (616) 530-6900 www.bmwmcgr.com 12

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

March 2016

A Few Points About Points

by Jason Waechter, Esq. Save the date! March 13, the clocks “spring forward”, the days start to get even longer, and we can officially start prepping our motorcycles and planning rides for the upcoming season. To tide you over for a few more weeks, I thought I would touch on a few key points about drivers license points.

Most people are aware of the points system, but don’t necessarily understand exactly how they work, or realize how much damage points can end up doing.

I wanted to start by mentioning that Hawaii, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington, and Wyoming don’t use a points system (or at least not in the format we are talking about today). Also, please keep in mind that I can’t cover every aspect of the points system in every state in a single article. This is just general information; to learn more, contact me (www.TheMotorcycleLawyer.com) or your Secretary of State office. Now that that’s out of the way, here are five important things to understand about driver’s license points.

ONE: Points are cumulative, and can stay on your driving record for up to ten years. In Michigan, if you have points assigned to your license, they stay on there for two years without exception. In California, points assigned for minor offenses will stick for three years, but points for serious offenses, like a DUI or hit-and-run conviction, will stick for ten. That’s a really long time.

TWO: The more points you get, the more problems you could have. Most attorneys will recommend fighting every ticket you get, instead of waiting until you have points on your license already; if your attorney can’t win your case for you, and you end up going over the maximum allowable points, your license could be restricted, suspended, or revoked. There is a process of escalation within the points system. Once you get to a certain number of points within a specified period of time, the Secretary of State will contact you to tell you that you have more points than average. If you continue to get points within a specific time period, the Secretary of State will contact you again, this time to warn you that you could lose your license (or have it

suspended) if you don’t stop breaking the law.

Finally, if you go over the maximum number of points within a particular period of time, you will be called in by the Secretary of State office to do any or all of the following: review your driving record, take or retake certain written or practical driving tests, submit to a vision test, or others. The results of this meeting and the testing will determine any action taken to restrict, suspend, or revoke your driver’s license.

THREE: The more serious the violation, the more points assigned, and the faster you will move towards restriction, suspension, or revocation. In Michigan, for example, serious violations like vehicular manslaughter or reckless driving carry a six-point penalty. Drag racing, failing to yield to police, ambulance, fire truck, or other emergency vehicles, and driving while visibly impaired are all four-point offenses. Careless driving or failing to stop at a light or sign are three-point offenses. Driving with an open container or going up to 10mph above the posted limit are two-point offenses. Remember, points are assigned upon conviction, not upon being charged, which is why it’s so important to hire an attorney, no matter how minor an offense may seem: if they can help you avoid points, it’s worth it. It’s important to note that the above examples are not a complete list of offenses that can get you points, and that these point values are for Michigan only; visit your Secretary of State website to get the most up-to-date information about point values and offenses.

New York, you can be assigned points if you have an unbelted child (younger than 16) in the vehicle.

In Arizona, if you are nabbed by a red-light camera, you can be assigned points. In Michigan, if you get a DUI while riding your snowmobile or off-road vehicle, you can get points on your driver’s license.

There are other exceptions in other states, some that add points and some that don’t.

The point here is this: getting fined is bad enough, but having points assigned to your driver’s license is even worse. Read up on the laws in your state, and make sure that if you get a ticket with points, that you make an informed choice about whether you want to fight it or not. Often, it’s worth it in the long term.

Sit tight, everyone, spring will be along shortly, and so will the riding season. If you have a story to tell about getting a ticket (or getting out of one), drop me a line… we are always looking for great stories to share! Find us any of the following ways: Facebook.com/TheMotorcycleLawyer; Twitter.com/CycleLawyer1; or writer@lawyerforlife.com.

Attorney Jason A. Waechter is a national attorney specializing in the areas of motorcycle and motor vehicle injury litigation. Mr. Waechter has collected millions of dollars in settlements, awards and verdicts for his motorcycle clients over the past 20 years. Jason feels a duty to give back to his community. A portion of each case settled goes to educational resources for bikers, funds to help bikers while their cases are being litigated and our motorcycle accident prevention campaign. Call Attorney Jason Waechter toll free at 1-877BIKER LAW. Or visit www.TheMotorcycleLawyer.com Legal disclaimer: The law is very fact dependent and there are many nuances and exceptions depending on your particular circumstances. Therefore, given the limited space, it is impossible to cover everything. Do not rely on the short article to protect your rights.

FOUR: Yes, insurance companies do look at your driver’s license points and yes, they may charge more for drivers who have points on their license; they may also cancel your policy if they perceive you as too great a risk. In addition, insurance companies often keep their own “points” system, and can assign points for your driving convictions as well as for any claims you might submit.

FIVE: You can get points for all kinds of things depending on where you live. In

The Great Lakes Dual Sporters is a like-minded group of offroad motorcyclists who enjoy riding Michigan’s vast two-track trails and back roads. All done using a street legal dirtbike also known as Dual Sport.

If you’re looking for fantastic dualsport riding and the company of great friends, join us. Check out our website at www.gldsmc.org to learn about our group, our events and much more. Only $10 to join!

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Book Review

Malcolm! The Autobiography

by Malcolm Smith reviewed by Gene Southard I have had the opportunity to talk to Malcolm Smith several times and I am always surprised at how down to earth this famous off-road racer is. If you didn’t know who he was, you would think he was a local farmer who had just come to town, not the world famous racer with eight ISDT (International Six Day Trials) Gold Medals and many offroad event wins. Malcolm is soft spoken and very laid back. “Malcolm! The Autobiography” is described as a coffee table book and I was afraid that it would be just a collection of color pics with not much indepth text. But I found that Malcolm is also a great story teller and recalls many exciting stories from his youth.

Malcolm was born to an 80-year-old Alaskan adventurer father and a 30-year-old mother. His early youth was spent exploring British Columbia in Canada before his family moved to San Bernadino after World War II. Malcolm tells many humorous stories of growing up in the foothills of Southern California. In one of my favorite stories, he tells of “borrowing a crawler tractor” to make a race track in the foothills, only to be called to the high school principal’s office the next day to talk to the police about his tractor hijacking.

His first bike was a Lambretta scooter; not much of a start in dirt bikes.

But he soon had the scooter’s rear tire modified with cleats from a pair of track shoes for more traction in climbing hills behind his house. “Not much traction on the pavement” was his description of the rear tire. He soon moved up to a real motorcycle while still in high school; a Matchless single. After starting work at one of the local motorcycle shops, his racing career began at the local flat tracks.

His early racing career was almost cut short after a bad crash while play riding. The broken leg he sustained was very painful and took awhile to heal. But he found that he could not stay away from riding for long. and soon he was winning at the many off road events in the area.

While Malcolm was working at K&N Cycle, Edison Dye, the importer for Husqvarna, offered Malcolm a chance to ride for Husky as well as sell this famous Swedish brand. Since then, Malcolm has been riding and winning with Husky.

Along with being one of the first Husqvarna dealers in the nation, he was also offered an opportunity to ride his first ISDT (now called the ISDE,

14

International Six Day Enduro) in 1966.

At this event, he won his first medal, a silver, followed by his eight gold medals in the following years. The bike on which he rode to his first medal can be seen at the Moto Amory museum in East Moline, Illinois. (I did a story on this very large dirt bike museum in the Sept ’14 issue of this publication.)

During Malcolm’s ride in the 1970 ISDT, Bruce Brown filmed parts of “On Any Sunday” — the best motorcycle movie of all time. Malcolm did not expect his part in the movie to be very large but it made Malcolm a household name among dirt bike riders. From his experience riding in Europe, Malcolm started importing and manufacturing dirt bike accessories and selling them in his new distributorship called MSR, Malcolm Smith Racing.

Malcolm moved his racing efforts to other events outside of the U.S., like the ones held in Baja, with great success. Some of these were done in four-wheel buggies and trucks. He rode in the Roof of Africa Rally on a KTM in 1975, then the Safari Rally in a Dodge Ramcharger truck all with amazing results. Later, he raced The Morocco Rally in Africa then the Dakar Rally in 1988 in a Range Rover. As I am writing this story Malcolm’s son, Alex, is competing in his first Dakar Rally on a Husky. The apple does not fall far from the tree.

Malcolm and his wife, Joyce, had always wanted to see Machu Picchu so he accepted an invitation to race the Inca Rally in Peru promoted by Franco Acerbis, the owner of the Italian plastic manufacturing company. I have ridden the Peruvian Andes and I can state that they are very challenging. Later, he also rode the Australian Enduro held in New South Wales.

After selling his MSR distributorship, which eventually became the property of Tucker-Rocky Distributing, his business interests moved to the growth of Malcolm Smith Motorsports. Now, as Malcolm moves into his 80s, his children, Ashley and Alexander, are running the store.

In reading this autobiography, you will find that Malcolm Smith has indeed led a very exciting life. You will likely enjoy reading of his adventures.

This book can be purchased from Malcolm at www.themalcolmbook.com or at any motorcycle shop that purchases product from Tucker-Rocky Distributing.

Events Events do change.

Please call ahead.

Michigan February 27 Saturday Seminar Call for topic details BMW Motorcycles Southeast Michigan 14855 N. Sheldon Road Plymouth, Michigan 734-453-0500 March 18-19 2016 PigFestRamada Lansing Hotel & Conference Center 7501 West Saginaw Street $35 / person Lansing, MI www.harleyrider.net March 19-20 9th Annual Custom Motorcycle Show & Expo Best Custom Bikes in the Midwest $7,000 in prize money Dare to Bare Bikini Contest Vendors Gibraltar Trade Center 237 North River Road (I-94 to Exit 237) Mt. Clemens, MI (586) 465-6440 www.GibraltarTrade.com March 19 ABATE of Michigan Region 7 MRF Fund Night $10 / person Spaghetti dinner, Games 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Famrers Tavern Ruth, MI (989) 864-3714 March 19 ABATE of Michigan Region 15 Bowling for Motorcyclists Rights 9-pin no tap, 4-person teams $15 / bowler; $9 / non-bowler Food provided, awards, Raffle prizes Reg. 7 p.m.; Bowling at 8 p.m.

Biddle Bowl 708 Biddle Wyandotte, MI (313) 613-4703 March 26 Bikin’ for Burns Bowling Charity Fundraiser 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. $20 / person incl. 2 games of bowling and shoe rental, 2 slices of pizza, med. Pop Grand Blanc Lanes 5301 Saginaw Street Grand Blanc, MI (810) 771-4273 April 2-3 Detroit International Bike-O-Rama Ultimate Build Competition: $10,000 prize Tattoo contest, Combat Barbie Swap Meet, Bikini contest Cobo Hall 1 Washington Blvd Detroit, MI www.detroitbikeorama.com info@detroitbikeorama.com April 24 Bubba’s Old School Swap Meet Birch Run Expo Center 11600 North Beyer Road, Birch Run, MI Doors open at 10 a.m.

Admission: $6 / person (989) 893-5187

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

April 24 11th Annual Blessing of the Bikes Bike show, Vendors Gibraltar Trade Center, 237 North River Road (I-94 to Exit 237) Mt. Clemens, MI (586) 465-6440 www.GibraltarTrade.com

Indiana March 6 ABATE Region 1 Elkhart County Swap Meet - NEW LOCATION Northern Indiana Event Center / RV-MH Hall of Fame 21565 Executive Parkway, Elkhart, IN 9:00AM – 4:00PM Price $5 per person. Everyone Welcome. Open to the public. Multiple buildings of vendors & activities 10am-5pm Portion of proceeds support Elkhart County Treasures for Kidz Vendors 574-202-6217 Info: 574-370-3392.

March 13 Vintage Motorcycle Swap Meet Witham Building Boone County Fairgrounds NW of Indianapolis, I-65 Exit 138 Admission: $7 Vendors: 10’x10’ $40 pre-register $45 day of event www.bcswapmeet.com March 19 ABATE Region 7 Motorcycle Swap Meet Jennings County Fairgrounds Hwy 3 & W. County Road 500 N North Vernon, IN Admission $5.00 per person.

Swap meet 8:30am-4:00pm.

Ride-in bike show sign-in starts at 9:00am, judging starts at Noon Bike show info: 812-767-2182 Vendors: 812-522-2988 Info: 812-614-2979 March 19 ABATE Region 3 Spring Bash Fraternal Order of Eagles 1221 East Lincoln Rd Kokomo, IN Doors open at 6:00pm $10 per person, $15 per couple, Eagles members $5 Info: hogryder65@hotmail.com or (260) 403-2379 March 26 ABATE Region 11 21 st Annual Mardi Gras Greenwood American Legion Post #252 334 US 31, Greenwood, IN 6 p.m. to Midnight Must be at least $15 / person; $25 / couple; 18 years old (317) 457-2513 or(317) 496-7298 April 16-17 Indiana’s Largest Swap Meet & Bike Build-Off Buy – Sell – Trade 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day Marion County Fairgrounds 7300 East Troy Avenue Indianapolis, IN Vendor info: (317) 997-8729 Info: Call Curly at (317) 248-9970 June 26 Northern Indiana Ride for Kids Pinhook Park, 2801 Riverside Park, South Bend, IN www.curethekids,org (219) 363-6071 or (574) 208-2499

March 2016

TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

15

Motorcycling & Law

Pr of iling Ag ainst Motor cyclists Prof ofiling Against Motorc

by Dondi Vesprini In my last article, I discussed discrimination against motorcyclists.

In this article, I will discuss a specific type of discrimination against motorcyclists that many riders have experienced. I am referring to profiling, which essentially means the illegal use by law enforcement of the fact that a person rides a motorcycle or wears motorcycle-related paraphernalia as a factor in deciding to stop and question, take enforcement action, arrest, or search a person or motorcycle with or without a legal basis.

Unfortunately, Michigan currently has no statutes which specifically prohibit profiling of a motorcyclist. Also, our United States Supreme Court has previously held that pretextual traffic stops (stops where the officer may have ulterior motives for the stop) are perfectly legal so long as there existed probable cause to believe that a traffic violation occurred. However, under Federal law, a motorcyclist may pursue a claim for damages if the law enforcement officer’s conduct deprived the

motorcyclist of any rights secured by the United States Constitution.

The 14th Amendment guarantees equal protection under the laws. However, motorcyclists are not a “suspect class” of individuals entitled to a strict application of the amendment to challenge discriminatory conduct, as are classes based on race, national origin, religion, alienage and other classes concerning fundamental rights. Thus, it is unlikely that any challenge to profiling of a motorcyclist will be sustained under the 14th Amendment.

Instead, the constitutional rights most likely to be violated in a case of motorcycle profiling are those secured by the 1st and 4th Amendments.

The 1st Amendment guarantees rights such as freedom of speech, the right to peaceably assemble, and freedom of association. The United States Supreme Court has long held that the right to wear clothing which displays writing or designs equally applies to motorcycles colors and clothing.

Any action by law enforcement that violates a motorcyclist’s 1st Amendment rights is actionable under Federal law. A great example of such a claim is a case that a colleague of mine recently prevailed in against the State Police in Florida. In that case, Florida State Police officers were refusing to allow motorcyclists wearing colors to enter the Florida State Fair. Video was taken of officers turning away such motorcyclists at the entry gates to the fair, telling the motorcyclists that if they took their colors off, they would then be allowed entry into the fair. In that case, my colleague pursued a

claim against the officers alleging among other claims, that the officers had violated the motorcyclists 1st Amendment rights and he was successful in obtaining a recovery on behalf of the bikers.

The 4th Amendment, in the context of a traffic stop, protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. The United States Supreme Court has held that a stop, which triggers the protections of the 4th Amendment, is when an officer restrains an individual’s liberty “by means of physical force or show of authority” such that a reasonable person would not believe that he was free to leave and ignore the officer’s requests. In the context of a traffic stop, a stop would be deemed unreasonable, if there was no reasonable suspicion for the stop or if the detention and intrusion were not reasonably related in duration and method to the scope of the stop and the officers suspicions.

These types of cases can be very complicated and many times pit the word of the motorcyclist against the word of the involved law enforcement officers. My suggestion would be to get the traffic stop recorded on video so there is no question later as to what actually was said and done by the parties involved in the traffic stop. In fact, I believe much of the success in the Florida State Fair case is attributable to the fact that the entire confrontation with the police officers was captured on video so there was no question that the refusal of entry took place and that the sole basis for the refusal was that the motorcyclists were wearing colors.

As always, if anyone has any questions or if I can be of legal assistance to you or anyone you know who has been injured in a motorcycle accident, please don’t hesitate to contact me as I deal with these types of claims on a daily basis on behalf of injured motorcyclists statewide.

Further, for those readers who are members of any motorcycle organizations, clubs or groups, if you would like to have me come out to your group to speak or give a presentation on the legal rights of an injured motorcyclist or on any specific topic that your group may be curious about, please don’t hesitate to give me a call at (248-5694646) or shoot me an e-mail at Dondi@buckfirelaw.com. I give presentations statewide and there is never a charge associated with having me out. I enjoy having the opportunity to come out and meet motorcycle enthusiasts from all parts of our State!

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2011 Triumph Sprint GT, 6,500 miles, Silver, Excellent condition, $6,999

2016 BMW S 1000 XR, 2016 BMW S 1000 XR, 2015 BMW R nineT Demo, 2015 BMW S 1000 R, 2015 BMW K 1600 GT, 2012 BMW K 1300 S, 2012 BMW K 1600 GTL, 2012 BMW R 1200 R, 2011 BMW R 1200 R, 2011 Triumph Sprint GT, 2010 BMW R 1200 GS, 2009 BMW R 1200 GS, 2003 BMW R1200CL, 2002 BMW R 1100 S,

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Call for Price $15,999 $15,599 Call for Price Call for Price $12,499 Make an offer $7,999 $8,990 Sale Price: $6,999 $10,999 $9,999 $5,999 $5,500

March 2016

Michigan

The Preacher Speacks About...

Tech Talk About Exhaust Systems Harley-Davidson

by Franz Hoffer Dealer Events

Previously, when I owned a 2001 Electra Glide, while I was happy with the way my Harley sounded with the stock exhaust system, I longed for it to sound tougher, faster, and meaner. I had Jerry B (Jerry B’s Cycle Works 25430 Harper, St. Clair Shores, MI 48081; 586-773-2453) install a Kerker Header System that gave me what I wanted. I had Wolverine HarleyDavidson install a Stage One Big Bore kit and it seemed to make sense to get headers to go along with that. I was fat and happy with the performance and the sound. But as time went on, the loud noise seemed to wear on me. Basic physics says the rider really doesn’t hear the sound when moving because it’s behind you, you really only hear it when standing still…as do those behind you and your passenger. A 1979 Michigan Law requires that a motorcycle moving at 35mph or less be no louder than 86 decibels. This level is higher than what is allowed for automobiles, but less than allowable levels for trucks. I asked my friend Gary Lewandowski (Great Lakes Ride Like a Pro 586-246-4344), Chief Training Officer for the Macomb County Motor Patrol about his view of loud bikes.

“Depending on where you are, there are certain decibel levels that are considered acceptable,” said Lewandowski.

“If your motorcycle exceeds those levels, it’s deemed too loud and a noise ordinance violation. But loud is not bad as long as it’s within the boundaries of the ordinances.”

As of 2007, motorcycles of a certain size were required to have catalytic converters. (I didn’t know that!) As of 2010, all Harley-Davidson models have catalytic converters. My current ride, a 2011 Road Glide Ultra, sounds just fine with the stock exhaust. Not everyone feels that way about the stock exhaust. As a matter of fact, I’m probably in the minority on this one. So as I normally do, my first point of discussion is with my mechanic, Jerry B. TP(The Preacher): Hi Jerry. Me again. I’m doing an article on exhaust systems and I’m actually a bit surprised by all of the information that’s out there. I need some help.

JB (Jerry Battaglia): Great, you came to the right place. Shoot!

TP: Stock exhaust systems: I’ve heard of guys turning them into “straight pipes.”

What exactly does that mean and what does it do?

JB: In the pre-catalyst days, we would cut the baffles out of the stock mufflers leaving a wide open muffler. It’s a good low cost way to make your bike sound like it was intended.

For a complete list of Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Association Members, see the dealer locator on page 19.

TP: Will doing that damage the motor?

Does the EFI, etc, need to be recalibrated?

JB: Yes, it does create a lean condition.

Doing this will increase your air flow so you have to add more fuel with a larger jet on carb models or one of many tuning devices for EFI, I prefer the Screamin Eagle Pro Tuner.

TP: Does a “non-stock” exhaust system add horsepower?

JB: Yes, reducing restriction will increase flow and add horsepower, if done right.

Zero reduction systems such as drag pipes make great top end horsepower but leave little to be desired in the midrange area.

TP: Will an engine run hotter, colder, or the same with a header vs stock exhaust?

JB: A good breathing engine is a happy engine. Good exhaust systems create more horsepower, give you better mileage and can cool your engine up to 20 percent.

TP: There are so many brands out there....Vance & Hines, Kerker, Remus (RevZilla), Cobra, Rhinehart, Cruiser, Bassani, and Graves, just to name a few.

When considering a custom exhaust, what factors should you consider?

JB: The three most import factors for the average Harley owner would be sound, looks, and performance, usually in that order.

TP: What would you estimate the average cost of a new system?

JB: Funny question. In the pre-EFI days, we could cut baffles and change a jet for around $60 out the door. Now there are so many variables in deciding what to change and what to change to that it’s a little complicated. The cost of changing exhausts ranges from $200 up to the $2,000 area. Touring motorcycles with closed loop systems can handle a muffler only

Continued on next page TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

February 27 First Responders Appreciation Day Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Road, Battle Creek, MI (269) 979-2233 February 27 Cabin Fever Party Are you getting CABIN FEVER?? Then come out to our Cabin Fever Party!

Free Food, entertainment, BEST DRESSED Lumberjack & Best Beard contests! chance to win up to $500 in Gift Cards ABC Harley-Davidson, Inc. 4405 Highland Road (M59) Waterford, MI 248.674.3175 March 6 Biker Helping Babies: March of Dines Fundraiser Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Road, Battle Creek, MI (269) 979-2233 March 12 Pie Our Staff for MDA Come enjoy a bake sale and silent auction where you can bid to pie our staff in the face.

Battle Creek Harley-Davidson 5738 Beckley Road, Battle Creek, MI (269) 979-2233

March 12 Vegas Party ABC Harley-Davidson, Inc. 4405 Highland Road (M-59) Waterford, MI 248.674.3175 March 17-19 St. Patrick’s Day Event (new) Gildner’s Harley-Davidson 2723 South M 76 West Branch, MI (989) 345-1330 March 19 Boom! Audio Workshop Battle Creek HarleyDavidson 5738 Beckley Road Battle Creek, MI (269) 979-2233 March 19 Guns & Hoses Ray C’s Harley-Davidson 1491 S. Lapeer Rd. (M-24 & I-69) Lapeer, MI (810) 664-9261 March 26 Heat the Streets Enjoy live music, free food and a burnout pit. Chance to win a 2016 Street Glide.

ABC Harley-Davidson, Inc. 4405 Highland Road (M-59) Waterford, MI 248.674.3175 March 26 Easter Event Egg hunt for kids & adults!

Battle Creek HarleyDavidson 5738 Beckley Road Battle Creek, MI (269) 979-2233 17

Continued from previous page change without any tuning and range in price from $400 - $700. Sport bikes with closed loop and non-catalyst mufflers range from $200 - $700. Removing the catalyst and/or installing a 2-into-1 system will require a tuning device. Changing any exhaust component along with the air cleaner will also require a tuning device.

TP: What is your opinion of “Loud Pipes Save Lives?”

JB: I think loud pipes make a huge difference in your safety. I’m sure everyone has experienced the vibration felt in your car when a loud motorcycle approaches. I have noticed lately, more touring riders prefer their volume to be a little milder than drag pipes; not as loud as open headers. Got to hear that radio.

Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Association Members 1. Battle Creek

12. Muskegon

BATTLE CREEK HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 5738 BECKLEY RD, BATTLE CREEK (269) 979-2233, www.battlecreekharley.com

HOT ROD HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 149 SHORELINE DRIVE, MUSKEGON (231) 722-3653, www.hotrodhd.com

2. Bay City

13. Sturgis

GREAT LAKES HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 3850 S. HURON ROAD, BAY CITY (989) 686-0400, www.greatlakeshd.com

HAMILTON HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 68951 WHITE SCHOOL ROAD, STURGIS (616) 651-3424, www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com

3. Birch Run

14. Tecumseh

SHIAWASSEE HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 11901 N. BEYER ROAD, BIRCH RUN (989) 624-4400 www.shiawasseeharley-davidson.com

TECUMSEH HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 8080 MATTHEWS HIGHWAY, TECUMSEH (517) 423-3333

4. Cement City

15. Traverse City

TOWN & COUNTRY HARLEY-DAVIDSON® US 12 & US 127, CEMENT CITY (517) 547-3333, www.cementcity-harley.com

CLASSIC MOTOR SPORTS HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 3939 S BLUE STAR DRIVE, TRAVERSE CITY (231) 943-9344, www.classictc.com

5. Fremont

16. Waterford

SANDY’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® SPORT CENTER 11940 N. MAPLE ISLAND RD, FREMONT (231) 924-3020 www.sandysharley-davidson.com

A.B.C. HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 4405 HIGHLAND RD (M-59), WATERFORD (248) 674-3175 www.abc-harley-davidson.com

6. Gaylord

17. West Branch

ZIP’S 45TH PARALLEL HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 980 S WISCONSIN AVE., GAYLORD (989) 732-8000, www.zips45thhd.com

GILDNER’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® MOTORCYCLES 2723 S M-76, WEST BRANCH (989) 345-1330, www.gildnershd.com

TP: Anything you want to add?

JB: Just a little FYI, most exhaust systems perform about the same when using stock cams so feel free to pick the system with the looks and sound you like the best. BUT!!

If you decide to change to performance cams, exhaust systems can make or break your power-band so do your homework. 2-into-1 systems are my choice when it comes to HP with cams. Thunder Header and D&D make some great stuff! If you don’t like the 2-into-1 systems, check into X pipes. They are growing in popularity and they scavenge exhaust almost as good as a 2 into 1 system.

TP: Thanks Jerry, you might be seeing me in a month or so to pick out a new exhaust system.

There you have it folks. Exhaust systems 101. See, or hear, you out there!

TRAILER SALES, RENTALS,

Ce

leb ou rati ng r yea 24 th r!

SERVICE & STORAGE FOR RENT

1- and 2-place motorcycle trailers for sale or rent Rentals

GRAND RAPIDS HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 2977 CORPORATE GROVE DR., HUDSONVILLE (616) 896-0111, www.grandrapidsharley.com

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8. Kalamazoo PERRY’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 5331 SPRINKLE ROAD, KALAMAZOO (269) 329-3450 www.perryharley-davidson.com

starting at $30 a day!

FOR SALE

7. Hudsonville

Aluminum 1 & 2 place trailers SPRING CLEARANCE!

skelley@kelleytrailers.com

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9. Lansing CAPITOL HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 9550 WOODLANE DRIVE, DIMONDALE (517) 646-2345, www.capitolhd.com

Mon thru Fri 9 to 6 • Sat 9 to 3

We sell a complete line of open & enclosed motorcycle trailers at affordable prices.

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10. Lapeer RAY C’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 1491 S. LAPEER ROAD, LAPEER (810) 664-9261, www.raycsh-d.com

(734) 783-6464 12620 N. Telegraph Carleton, MI

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11. Mt. Pleasant C & S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® 4741 E PICKARD, MT PLEASANT (989) 772-5513 www.candssportcenter.com

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March 2016

TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

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MOTORCYCLE WRECK? Call the MOTORCYCLE LAWYER!

1-877-BIKER-LAW

WE TAKE AUTO & TRUCK CASES TOO! Hurt in a crash?

Call Jason Waechter - The Motorcycle Lawyer

1-877-BIKER-LAW

www.TheMotorcycleLawyer.com

Pre-Owned Motorcycles 2014 Victory Cross Country Tour®, Goldrush & Black, 502 miles, $18,999 OUT THE DOOR!!!

2015 Victory Gunner™, Titanium / Black, 1,826 miles, $11,999 OUT THE DOOR!!!

2009 Harley-Davidson® Ultra Classic® Electra Glide®, Red, 61,306 miles, $11,999 OUT THE DOOR!!!

2004 Harley-Davidson® Screamin EagleSoftail Deuce, Yellow, 22,151 miles, $14,499 OUT THE DOOR

2011 Yamaha Stratoliner Deluxe, Black, 9,152 miles, $10,499 OUT THE DOOR!!!

1765 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI One mile north of Square Lake Rd. on the east side of Telegraph Rd.

248.920.2000 • www.ridemotorcity.com

2014 Triumph America Standard, Black, 4,9651 miles, $7,499 OUT THE DOOR!!!

2015 Victory Gunner™ Suede Titanium Metallic with Black,1,232 miles, $12,999 OUT THE DOOR

2009 Piaggio MP3 3-Wheeler 500, 7,236 miles, $3,999 OUT THR DOOR!!!

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