Midwest Motorcyclist(tm), The Complete Guide to Motorcycling in the Midwest(tm), September 2014 issu

Only $199 per month!* Time to upgrade to the BMW S 1000 RR, the best superbike in the world.

2014S 1000 RR Base MSRP: $15,150 including ABS

Now you can get the technology you’ve been missing dynamic traction control, race ABS and quick shifter - at the best price possible. Plus, buy a new S 1000 RR and get a free track day. Stop by our dealership today!

Special factory incentives on select 2014 models - including the new water-cooled R 1200 GS - through September 30, 2014.

Stop by our dealership for details before the incentives are gone!

BMW Motorrad Dealer of Excellence BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan 14855 N. Sheldon Rd., Plymouth, MI 734.453.0500 www.bmwmcsem.com

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The Demo Truck Returns!

September 5th & 6th, 2014 If you missed it the first time, you have a second chance.

The Indian Motorcycle demo truck is returning to our dealership in September. Don’t miss this opportunity to ride the 2015 Indian motorcycles. We don’t know when the demo truck will be around again so mark your calendars and don’t miss your chance.

Riders must have a motorcycle endorsement, helmet, eye protection, jacket, long pants and boots. Don’t miss this opportunity to test ride the new American icon.

It’s the PERFECT Opportunity to Check Out the 2015 Line Up! The Legend is Back. Like its iconic forerunner, the all-new Indian® Scout™ is an innovative and aesthetically stunning American cruiser. It introduces the first-ever liquid-cooled Indian Motorcycle engine – an efficient and reliable 69 cubic inch V-twin – for impressive power on demand. This new model carries the legendary Indian® Scout™ name into the future in authentic Indian® Motorcycle® style.

MSRP - $10,999

STYLE MEETS SWAGGER. The 2015 Indian® Chief® Vintage brings iconic Indian styling to a whole new level.

ALL YOU NEED. ALL YOU WANT. The 2015 Indian® Chief® Classic is everything an Indian Motorcycle® was and ever should be. It’s a sculpted, powerful cruiser, built with the purest necessities of Indian style, wrapped around the innovation of tomorrow.

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.MotorCityMotorcycles.com TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

NEW LOOK. SAME SOUL The 2015 Indian® Chieftain™ is in touch with its past, but far ahead of its time. It’s the first Indian Motorcycle® ever with a hard fairing, hard saddlebags and unprecedented new comfort and convenience features. It’s like no Indian Motorcycle® ever seen before, yet its style makes clear it has the DNA of a legendary Indian Motorcycle®.

A STORIED SOUL IN A BRAND NEW BIKE. The 2015 Indian® Roadmaster™ reflects pure American Luxury. Building upon the iconic Roadmaster name used by Indian in the 1940s, the new Roadmaster reimagines Indian Motorcycle comfort, styling and performance out on the open road, for the long haul.

on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MotorCityMotorcycles 3

IN THIS ISSUE…..

Columns 5 10 13 17 cc media publications

This Month’s Contributors: Contributing Editors Nicole Espinosa Franz Hoffer plus

Gene Southard, Dondi Vesprini, Jason Waechter, Ken Wikle, Jay Wilgus

20 22

To Our Readers The Preacher Speaks About: The East Coast and Sturgis by Franz Hoffer The Live It Right Dream Ride: The Darker Side of Right

by Jay Wilgus Motorcycling and Law: Difference Between a Motorcycle and a Moped

by Dondi Vesprini Is a Mobility Scooter a Motor Vehicle? by Jason Waechter Open Terrain - Exploring the World and Soul by Motorcycle: When Your Partner’s on the Road by Nicole Espinosa

Features, News & Reviews 6 8 14 16

Moto Armory Dirt Bike Museum Tour by Gene Southard Old Geezer Conquers the Tail of the Dragon by Ken Wikle Pro Hillclimbers Explode Up Mt. Garfield by Ray Peabody Tech Development Serves Pro MX Racers

Resources 5 21

Advertiser Index Event Schedule

Cover photo: 450cc Pro Sport Hill Climber Molly Carbon launches off the first jump on her second run up Mt. Garfield at the bi-annual AMA Pro Hillclimb. Photo by Ray Peabody.

Publisher/Managing Editor

Ray Peabody publisher@midwestmotorcyclist.com rpeabody@sbcglobal.net

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

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How to contact us: 709 Fall Street Spring Lake, Michigan 49456 (810) 923-8738 www.midwestmotorcyclist.com Copyright 2012-2014 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, freelance 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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September 2014

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Harley-Davidson ...........7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Battle Creek Harley-Davidson ....7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Battle of the Brits............................9 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Bent Wheels Competition Club.................5 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 BMW MC of Detroit...........................7 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 BMW of Grand Rapids..........5, 8, 21, 23 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 BMW, SE Michigan..............2, 7, 12, 21 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Lapeer Brewfest...............................14 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Brighton Harley-Davidson .......7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 C & S Harley-Davidson ...........7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Capitol Harley-Davidson .........7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Classic MotorSports................7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Cycle Conservation Club ...........................17 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Dave Bowman.....................................7, 18 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Diamond Gusset Jeans ............................10 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Driftless Destinations..........................15 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Fremont Boot......................................6 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Gildner’s Harley-Davidson .......7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Grand Rapids H-D................. ...7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Great Lakes Dual Sporters ....................17 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Great Lakes Harley-Davidson ..7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Hamilton’s Harley-Davidson .....7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Harley-Davidson dealers ..........7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Harrison Motorcycle Service ................12 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Hot Rod Harley-Davidson ........7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Jason Waechter, The Motorcycle Lawyer..24 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Jerry B’s Cycle Works .......................12 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Kelley & Sons Trailers ............................20 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Live It Right Dream Ride....................14 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 MI Supermoto.................................8 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Michigan Chrome Shop.......................15 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Michigan City Harley-Davidson..............6, 23 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Motor City Harley-Davidson ...7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Motor City Underwriters ......................12 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Motorcity Motorcycles.................3, 13 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Motorcycle Mike’s............................19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Motorcycle Solutions, LLC......................12 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 MC Sport Touring Association..........17 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Perry’s Harley-Davidson ..........7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Ray C’s Harley-Davidson..........7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Retail Warehouse ............................4, 19 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Sandy’s Harley-Davidson ...........7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Shiawassee Harley-Davidson ....7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Sport Bike Track Gear ............................ 22 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Sweet Trikes ...........................................12 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Tecumseh Harley-Davidson ....7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 The Alibi................................................20 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Town & Country H-D................7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Vehicle City Harley-Davidson ..7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Wolverine Harley-Davidson ....7, 10, 11 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901 Zip’s 45th Parallel H-D..............7, 10, 11 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Advertiser Index

The Bent Wheels Chapter of the CCC is looking for new members.

BWCC has a long history of promoting events of all kinds and in preserving our ORV trail system. We are a family orientated, working club and ride the trails almost every weekend. If you’re looking for good times with great people - check us out.

Contact Billy Vanderhoff by email at bentwheelsbilly@gmail.com.

TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

We're coming into what, for me, is the best time of the year for riding motorcycles. Autumn means cooler air, longer shadows and less vacation traffic on the roads. It reminds me that the season is winding down and I need to maximize my time in the saddle before it's too late. That's what I intend to do.

Carpe' Autumn!

This month, our stories cover a wide range of topics. That probably isn't surprising since we try to cover all aspects of motorcycling but the contents are especially diverse this month.

Our friend and sometime contributor, Gene Southard, returns with his review of his recent tour of the Moto Armory Dirt Bike Museum in Illinois. If you've never heard of the Moto Armory Museum, you're not alone.

The museum doesn't have regular hours but holds the occasional Open House or conducts special group tours so it's not exactly easy to gain access. This museum contains much of the history of dirt bike riding. If you're a dirt bike enthusiast, you won't want to miss Gene's story about this mostly unknown museum.

"Old Geezer" Ken Wikle was visiting family down south and decided to take the opportunity to ride the Tail of the Dragon. He didn't choose a sportbike as his weapon of choice for this most well known of motorcycle destinations. Instead, he chose a HarleyDavidson Street Glide. Apparently, it was the right tool for the job. Be sure to check out his tale in this issue.

Franz "The Preacher" Hoffer took two significant motorcycle trips in the last four weeks: one out east and the other to his favorite destination, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. He had fun but struggled with some wet weather. Don't miss the story of the two trips in this issue.

I traveled to Mt. Garfield near Muskegon, Michigan for the 2014 AMA Pro Hillclimb organized by the Muskegon Motorcycle Club. Hillclimbs are great for spectators because you can see the entire race up close and not miss a moment of the action. Plus, the racers encounter three jumps while making a steep, fast ascent.

What's not to like? Be sure to read our review in this issue.

One half of the Live It

Right Dream Ride Team, Jay Wilgus, writes about a subject recently in the news. Despite the fact that he and his wife Emily are in the midst of a grand adventure to Tierra del Fuego at the southern-most tip of South America, he acknowledges that life isn't always easy. In fact, sometimes it can be depressing even when life seems good. It's a thoughtful, timely piece not to be missed.

Nicole Espinosa has been at home while her beau, Paul H. Smith, has been riding back and forth across the continental U.S. and up to Alaska in a test of the new Suzuki V-Strom DL-1000 Adventure. She shares her personal story about separation and the benefits it can bring to a relationship. If you travel apart from your

loved ones, you'll enjoy Nicole's column this month.

There's much more in this issue. The event schedule is getting thin as we near the end of the riding season but there's still much to do. Thank you for reading and sharing this mag with your friends. While it probably seems repetitive (because it is!), I must ask you to please patronize our advertisers.

They pay the bills and enable us to continue publishing. Please tell them you saw their ad in these pages.

Have fun. Watch for critters and leaves on the road as we get further into the autumn.

Se you on the road or at an upcoming event,

TRACK DAY • Saturday, September 8, 2014 • The day costs $175, which includes track time, class room instruction and lunch. All makes and models of bikes are welcome to attend our track events! To register, or if you have any questions at all regarding our track events please call Audrey at (734) 453-0500

Buy a new S 1000 RR & get a free track day

BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan 14855 N. Sheldon Rd., Plymouth, MI 734.453.0500 www.bmwmcsem.com

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Latitude 41.855022 Longitude -85.66382

5

Moto Armory Dirt Bike Museum

by Gene Southard I had been hearing about Moto Armory for about a year but had not been able to get in touch with owners for an appointment for a tour. Finally, I got a date to view the collection on a Sunday afternoon. The skies looked threatening with a large storm coming in, so our group decided not to ride over but took two cars for the 1.5 hour drive from my shop to East Moline, Illinois.

The collection does not have regular hours but instead is open to groups of 6 or more by appointment.

The collection is owned by Tom Reese, an excellent dirt rider in his own right. The collection is currently located close to Quad City Downs horse track.

Ray, who was in charge that day, met us at the door and offered to answer any questions that we might

have. He was very knowledgeable about the whole collection which consists of over 500 bikes, mostly from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s with a few newer machines and a few from the ’50s. You’ll find bikes here from AJS to Zundapp.

The collection is housed on two floors. The first floor has a more open arrangement with room to walk around the machines. They are grouped by types of machine. Right across from the entrance was a military section with a couple of Harley WLA sidecars and a BMW sidecar with machine gun. At the back of the room was the flat track section. This section brought back many memories from my 10 years traveling around the Midwest racing. Some of my favorites from this section were the Bultaco Astro, the CR Harley Sprints, the XR750s and the rare RS750 Honda. Right next to the flat track section was a V-Rod drag bike that Ray started up and let us hear - very loud! On the other side of the room was a section devoted to Malcom Smith with three of the machines he rode in the ISDE (Internaional Six Days Enduro). I have had the opportunity to talk to Malcom a couple of times and he is a soft spoken, down to earth guy. If you didn’t know him, you would think he was one of the local farmers.

A couple of the rarest machines were the Swedish Lito and Monarch from the ’60s with some of the best restorations I have ever seen. The first floor was full of rare machines from a Yankee to a Triumph cub with skis and track for riding in the snow. To access the second floor, you go up a flight of stairs with a

Chicago, both coasts of Lake Michigan and Northern Indiana with a Harley-Davidson® rental from our centrallyChicago located store.

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vintage gas pump on the landing and a Jawa speedway bike hanging from the ceiling. The second floor is more tightly packed with bikes in rows by make. One row of Huskys, one of Yamahas, etc. One row is the worlds largest Penton collection with the last Penton that John had ridden in competition & signed. The second floor collection is so large that I couldn’t get it all in one picture.

Along one wall was a row of MX bikes that had been ridden by some of the most famous riders in the sport. I was intrigued by the section of European machines at the back of the room. I found one of every Ossa I have ever owned.

Of interest to everyone was the brand new AJS still in the original crate. At the end of the Husky row was the oldest Husky I have ever seen, a ’57 250 Silverpilen. The most interesting Kaw had to be the KD400 factory prototype that never went into production. All of the machines in this collection are in excellent condition looking like they had just rolled off the showroom floor.

Some of this collection can be viewed on their web site - www.moto-armory.com. I would like to thank Ray for showing us around and answering all of our questions. Keep watching the Moto Armory web site for dates that they have open house events or for contact info about arranging a tour. As we were leaving for our drive home, the skies let loose and we drove in a downpour all the way home. We are very lucky that Tom spent the time and money preserving our past and for letting me travel back in time to visit my youth again.

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2012 BMW F650GS, SILVER / BLACK 2008 BMW K1200GT, BLUE METALLIC / SILVER Sale Price: 2006 BMW K1200GT, METALLIC BLUE / SILVER Sale Price: 2008 BMW K1200S, BLACK / SILVER 2013 BMW K1300S 30TH ANNIVERSARY, RED/BLACK/WHITE / BLACK 1995 BMW R1100RSL, BLACK / SILVER 1996 BMW R1100RT, GLACIER GREEN / SILVER Sale Price: 2000 BMW R1200C, BLACK / SILVER 2010 BMW R1200GS, Graphite 2009 BMW R1200GS, NAMBIA ORANGE / SILVER 2009 BMW R1200GS, SILVER / SILVER 2013 BMW R1200GS, THUNDER GREY / SILVER 2009 BMW R1200GSA, GRAPHITE 2007 BMW R1200GSA, THUNDER GREY / SILVER 2006 BMW R1200RT, GRAPHITE / SILVER 2011 BMW R1200RTP, BLACK/WHTIE / BLACK

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We want your used motorcycle.

New Harley-Davidson® motorcycles are selling like hot cakes.

We’re replenishing our inventories as quickly as possible. In addition to the new bikes, we are also stocking up on pre-owned motorcycles, either through trade-ins or outright purchases. If you’re looking to buy - or you just want to sell the motorcycle you now own - take your motorcycle to your local Harley® dealer for a quote. Do it today to make your best deal.

Visit your local Harley-Davidson® dealer today. The complete list of Michigan Harley-Davidson® dealers can be found on page 10 and 11 in this issue.

1984 GL1200 GOLDWING, All stock, 39,000 Miles, Runs great, $2,495

2010 VTX 1300 FURY, 6200 Miles, Great Condition, Very Clean, Like New, EFI, $5,995

2004 VLX 600 DELUXE, NEW TIRES, 8,000 MILES, WITH MANUALS, WITH MEN’S AND LADIES’ HELMETS, $2,995 2007 VTX 1300, 2,600 Miles, All Stock, Windshield, Backrest, $5,395 2008 CRF 250R, FMF Powercore 4 Exhaust, Low Hours, Renthal Chain/Sprockets, $3,195 1984 XT 250 ENDURO, 7,800 Miles, Starts & Runs Great, New Tires and Brakes, $1,695 1996 ROYAL STAR 1300, 27,000 Miles, Cobra exhaust, Comes with Corbin Solo Seat, New Brakes, New Battery, $3,295 1999 PW 50, All Stock, Runs Great, Fresh Tune Up, $899 2007 YZ 250, PRO CIRCUIT PIPE, FRESH TOP END REBUILD, NEW CLUTCH, NEW CHAIN AND SPROCKETS, VERY CLEAN, WELL MAINTAINED, $2,995 2007 YZ 250F, Clean, ASV Levers, FMF exhaust, Runs Great, $2,595 2007 YZ 450F, Gold Excel Wheels, EE Bark Busters, 12 Hours, Runs Great, $3,595 2007 YZ 85, WELL MAINTAINED, LOW HOURS, ALL STOCK, $1,995 2009 V-STAR 1300 TOURING, 7,500 Miles, Bags, Windshield, Sissy bar, Like New, $6,795 2012 R6, Like New, Ridden 6 months, 4,000 Miles, LED tail light, HID headlights, $7,895 2012 RAPTOR 90 QUAD, Like new, Well Maintained, Electric Start, Runs Great, $1,995 1981 DS 125, All original, Runs Great, $699 1994 DR 250, 22.000 Miles, All Stock, Runs Great, $1,495 2002 SV 650 S, 35,000 Miles, Renthal Bars, Dale Walkers Performance Exhaust, $2,995 2007 GSXR 600, Yoshimura Exhaust, ELKA susp., 5,800 miles, Street Legal, $4,995 2010 KX 250F, Very Clean, Low Hours, New Tires, New Chain/Sprockets, $3,495 2012 NINJA 650R, 3600 Miles, 2 Brothers Exh, Rear Fender Elminator, $5,995 2004 POLINI 50, New clutch, Comes with many extras, Runs Great, $999 2005 KTM 50 SX SENIOR ADVENTURE, All Stock, Great Starter Bike, $1,000

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BMW Motorcycles of Detroit 34080 Van Dyke Avenue Sterling Heights, MI (586) 274-4000 www.bmwdetroit.com

TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

Event Listings

7

Old Geezer Conquers the” Tail of the Dragon”

By Ken Wikle I have been reading about the “Tail of the Dragon “in the Smoky Mountains for years. There are 238 curves in 11 miles! Motorcycle parts from crashed bikes are hung on a tree! This is a biker’s dream of sweepers, off-camber curves and tight corners with the possibility of turning motorcycling nirvana into your worst nightmare!

Opportunity knocks for everyone, sometimes at the most unlikely time. For me opportunity knocked this summer. My sister took a job with the Forest Service near Brevard, North Carolina (NC) and suddenly I had a free place to stay. All I had to do is come up with a bike and the time to make the pilgrimage to the most famous stretch of motorcycling heaven in the USA. Due to the distance from home (more than 600 miles), I was not going to ride a motorcycle down in a day and then tackle the Dragon the next day or even the day after! I’m an old man and certainly no Iron Butt contender. Renting a bike once I drove my car down was the only sane way for me to go.

My choice of weapon for this challenge… a Ducati, an Aprilia, a Ninja? What should I ride? On further reflection, I had to admit that, as Howling Wolf put it so well, “I’m built for comfort not for Speed!”

I carefully considered all the possibilities for senior citizen “Canyon Carvers” and came up with a Harley-Davidson Street Glide. … nice Batwing fairing to shelter me from the wind , a big soft seat for my aging posterior, floor boards so I can move my feet around comfortably and two big fiberglass saddle bags for all my stuff. The big VI rented from Smoky Mountain Iron Horses in twin would give me lots of low-end grunt when I Waynesville, NC. Nice people. My rental agent, Amber, forget to downshift enough on a hill or a corner. took me through the paperwork, gave me directions to the Blue Ridge Parkway, handed me some brochures and I was on my way. Nice bike. Lots of power and slightly modified

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Getting to the Parkway was easy and soon I was cruising along the “top of the world” with fantastic vistas of the Smoky Mountains at every turn. Now where in blazes is this Tail of the Dragon? I scoured the brochures looking for Route 129. It was quite a bit south of me so I headed off determined to face the Dragon (or at least its tail) before the day was out.

I dropped down off the Parkway, headed through Cherokee, NC, and on towards my destination, the intersection of State Routes 28 and 129. As I had to do the Dragon and get back to Brevard by dinner, I pushed it. State Route 28 is a killer when you are in a hurry. Curve after curve demanding 100% concentration to keep the rubber on the road and not in the bushes or ditch. Finally, I came around a corner and there it was.

A white and red sign announced Deal’s Gap; a gas station, motorcycle parking lot, restaurant, motel and best of all a Souvenir shop!

Bikers have many choices of t-shirts, coffee cups, patches, post cards, baseball caps and any other kind of apparel you can think of with various graphics related to the Tail of the Dragon. It’s good to see American capitalism is still alive and well in this remote mountain hamlet in rural North Carolina.

No recession there. Too bad we don’t have this in Michigan. I almost forgot what I came for as I tried to find the perfect t-shirt to commemorate my adventure.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot, you’re supposed to ride your motorcycle up to the top of the gap, turn around and ride back down again, and live to tell about it. Riding a rental bike requires that you return the rental in the same condition you received it. This is a lot of pressure especially when you’re riding a Harley-Davidson Street Glide weighing in at over 700 lbs.

I rushed into the store, bought a Red Bull and chugged it to heighten my awareness. I took a deep breath, worked up some courage, climbed on

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September 2014

Continued from previous page the bike, strapped on my helmet and pointed my “Hog” up route 129 to launch my assault on the famed “Tail of the Dragon”. To my surprise most of the bikes challenging the Tail were Harleys.

Granted, there are all kinds of bikes navigating Route 129; from sport bikes ridden by young riders in full leathers to full-dress Harleys with riders in black t-shirts and bandanas.

As I “ease on up the road,” I find that the Tail of the Dragon, while a challenging section of mountain road, is not as imposing as I thought it would be. Traffic was light on July 3rd and I was only passed by one sport bike on my upward-bound trip. Eleven miles later, there is a turnout with a rock with riders taking a breather before they headed back down. I was halfway through!

On the way up, there are at least three different photo vendors who are sitting in shade shelters taking everyone’s picture.

I waved and smiled each time without launching into the woods.

Search their website by the time of day you rode past and pick out your photo. You can use your credit card to purchase a photo or coffee cup with you on your bike riding the Tail of the Dragon.

After a short rest at the top and kibitzing with some other riders, I remounted my bike and wound my way back down to “base camp.”

The old guy on the Harley had conquered the Tail of the Dragon! I have no road rash, no plastic parts to hang on the Tree of Shame nor any tales of close calls to tell my grandchildren.

I am glad I experienced the Tail of the Dragon. But, in all of the excitement, I forgot to buy a t-shirt!

Tips for riding in the Smokies: Seriously, riding mountain roads in North Carolina takes 100% concentration to stay safe. Even a second of distraction on a curving mountain road can lead you to grief.

There are many things to distract you: oncoming traffic, scenery, occasionally someone passing you, signs, and road hazards.

While the Blue Ridge Parkway is not a particularly challenging road to ride, getting up to or down off the Parkway is usually done on some pretty aggressive roads. The Parkway is a great scenic ride!

Take breaks and get off the bike to combat road fatigue. Eat and drink water to stay alert and hydrated.

Plan your daily rides to make sure you don’t bite off more than you can chew. 4-6 hours of riding is plenty, Remember, we Midwesterners are mostly “flatlanders” and are not used to the aggressive riding conditions on these mountain roads. Take it easy and come home in one piece with a great story to tell!

32nd Annual

Battle of the Brits Sunday, September 14, 2014 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Camp Dearborn 1700 General Motors Road, Milford, MI

British, European American Motorcycle Show & Swap Meet Presented by the Metro Triumph Riders Supporting the Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation

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- Only votes submitted by 1 p.m. will count!

SHOW BIKE REGISTRATION Day of event: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon Pre-Registration By mail…see entry form below

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SHOW REGISTRATION FEES Motorcycle entries: $10.00 per bike + $5 Camp Dearborn entry fee at gate Swap-meet spaces: $40.00 for first space (15’ wide x 40’ deep).

Additional spaces, $30 each. + $5 Camp Dearborn entry fee at gate SPECTATOR ENTRY FEE $6 per vehicle ($4 for Dearborn residents)

An AMA-Sanctioned Event.

Be There, Rain or Shine!

Judges’ Awards for Best in Show!

FOOD AND BEVERAGES: Available throughout the day METRO TRIUMPH RIDERS STORE Visit the red MTR trailer to purchase a variety of club and show items Become an MTR member: Apply on our web site or pick up a form at the show!

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Go to www.campdearborn.com or call (248) 684-6000

Motorcycle Classes 1. Master Class · Only bikes in this class are eligible for (3) Best in Show awards! · Open to all British motorcycles, including café racers, customs, etc. · Will be judged by a panel of experts · All Master Class entrants will receive a free Battle of the Brits t-shirt!

CLASSES 2-20 ELIGIBLE FOR PARTICIPANTS’ CHOICE AWARDS, including best in class (1st, 2nd, 3rd) Modern Triumph Classes (Hinckley-built bikes, 1990- ) 2a. Cruisers (Bonneville America, Speedmaster, Rocket III, Adventurer, Legend) 2b. Modern Classics (Bonneville, T100, Thruxton, Thunderbird, Thunderbird Sport, Trident) 2c. Urban Sports (all Daytonas, all Sprints, all Trophy models, Speed Four, Speed Triple, Tiger) 3. Triumph and BSA Triples Trident and Rocket 3 (1969-76) 4. Triumph Oil-in-Frame Twins 650 and 750 (1971-88) 5a. Triumph Oil Tank Unit Bonnevilles all 650 twin-carb models (1963-70) 5b. Triumph Oil Tank Unit Other other 500 & 650 models (1963-70) 6. Triumph and BSA Pre-Unit Twins all pre-unit twins 7. Triumph and BSA Singles all singles, unit and pre-unit 8. Norton Commando 750 all 750cc models (1968-73) 9. Norton Commando 850 all 850cc models (1973-77) 11. BSA Unit Twins A50, A65, etc.

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Number of vendor spaces required ____ Number of bikes x $10 ____ ____ Vendor spaces x $40 Additional spaces X $30 ____ Total Enclosed _____

Mail check or money order in U.S. funds only, please, to: Metro Triumph Riders, P.O. Box 700521, Plymouth, MI 48170 TM

Midwest Motorcyclist

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The Preacher Speaks About...

The East Coast & Sturgis

by Franz Hoffer

The Tech Talk segment will return next month, topic to be determined. I put it off an extra month because I wanted to tell you about two great rides I’ve been on: one to the East Coast covering all the way from Michigan to Delaware and North Carolina and then back to Michigan. The other ride…you guessed it, Sturgis, South Dakota and the 74th Sturgis Bike Week Rally. Both rides held high points and some weather-related disappointments.

First, our East Coast trip was undertaken by five of us; my son Eric, son-in-law Tony, two good friends Mike and Jimbo, and yours truly. We left Michigan on Sunday morning July 13th at 6:00 a.m. in a steady rain that continually worsened until around noon when it finally stopped. We continued on in great weather. It was a little muggy but at least it wasn’t raining. We arrived at our first destination, Denton, Maryland 630 miles and 13 hours later.

The next morning, it was back on the road and, boy, it was hot and muggy. We left the hotel around 8:30 a.m. and the temperature was already in the high 80’s with about 90% humidity. We headed straight down the coast on Highway 1 and into Rehoboth Beach. We must have looked a sight as we paraded up and down the board walk in our riding garb flanked by men in bathing suits and women in bikinis; we definitely liked the look of the women more than the men.

From there, we continued on to Ocean City where we had an outstanding lunch. It was pleasant riding this through this resort area and we did do a little “tourist” shopping.

Next, we rode US-13 to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and spent the night in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. We continued on to the Outer Banks and made a stop in Kitty Hawk, paying homage to the Wright Brothers.

From there, we continued south along the coast and, after a 30-minute ferry ride, spent the night on Ocracoke Island. In the morning, we took another 2.5-hour ferry ride and rode Highway 17 in heavy rain. We spent the night in Greensboro, North Carolina. From there, we continued on and rode the “Devil’s Whip.” It has a 2,000 foot elevation Continued on page 16

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The Live It Right Dream Ride

The Darker Side of Right

By Jay Wilgus I’m 15. It’s Super Bowl Sunday. Friends have just been ushered away from my house in haste as my Dad is rushed to the hospital in an ambulance.

Heart attack. Death. Tragedy. A kid’s worst nightmare. After obvious tears and mild hysterics, Mom says four words that continue to shock me – “We’re gonna be fine.” More crying. Family arrives. Funeral with hundreds. I go back to school and navigate awkward encounters in which others don’t know what to say. Neither do I. Soon after, I decide to cherish the life I have. The crying stops.

Life is precious, I tell myself. It’s also short. Dad was only 50. There’s no reason to fret over teenager antics or bad grades. We’re all alive – breathing – and that’s good enough.

I spent the next decade oblivious to the darkness of depression and the way it can erase all hope. It made no sense to me when others couldn’t “snap out of it,” when they couldn’t see the obvious positives. I vowed to live my life fully, authentically, and right now. No waiting for retirement. No whining about how bad things are.

Just get it done. Make it happen. Dream it – plan it – do it.

That mindset has taken me to some pretty incredible places over the years and it provides Continued on page 18

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Pro Hillclimbers Explode Up Mt. Garfield

by Ray Peabody

Mt. Garfield is steep and the racing fast with lots of air.

The Muskegon Motorcycle Club hosted the biennial AMA Pro Hillclimb at their 40-acre Mt. Garfield facility in Norton Shores, Michigan on Sunday, August 3. The competition, which draws thousands of spectators, has been held consistently with the exception of the World War II years - since the 1920s.

Mt. Garfield is impressive. A sand dune towering at more than 300 feet, the hill is steep. It's difficult to judge just how steep the hill is until you climb the cement staircase on the north side of the run. Anecdotally, the hill looks like it ascends at about a 60-degree angle to the flat starting area.

Three jumps, two near the start and the last near the finish line, not only add thrills to each run but also test each racer's skills. Racers have to shut off the throttle before reaching the top to avoid flying over the crest. A large net just over the top catches racers reaching the top with too much speed. Fortunately, it doesn’t get much use.

Racers compete in three classes - 450cc Pro Sport, 451cc to 700cc Xtreme or the 701cc and higher Unlimited Class. Depending on the class, the race bikes are modified for speed, traction and control.

For example, in the Pro Sport class, the machines have fewer modifications. The engines are mostly stock but the swing arm is extended to help prevent the motorcycle from flipping over backwards. The rear tires are mostly knobbies but some bikes use paddle tires or chains for traction. The Xtreme Class race bikes are often powered by 600cc sportbike engines (think Honda CBR600RR or Yamaha R-6)

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using alcohol-based fuel. The motorcycles in this class also have the extended swing arm and use knobbies, paddle tires or chains. The Unlimited Class race bikes use a variety of engines including big Harley-Davidson v-twins, old Triumph vertical twins or four-cylinder superbike (CBR1000RR or R1) powerplants running nitro methane and producing in excess of 300 horsepower. Extended swingarms and high traction tires or chains are standard. All of the machines, but especially those in the Xtreme and Unlimited Classes, are beasts capable of reaching the top of Mt. Garfield in less than six seconds.

Weather for the 2014 climb was perfect with sunshine and temperatures in the 80s. A big crowd, many of whom had arrived the Friday evening before the Hillclimb, crowded into the viewing area at the base of the hill. The Xtreme Class was scheduled to run first followed by the Pro Sport Class and then the Unlimiteds. Each Class would get two runs and the best times in either of the two would determine the winners. After the points races were complete, the top ten racers in each of the Xtreme and Unlimited Classes would compete in the All Star Pro Shootout for cash prizes.

In the Pro Sport Class, Matthew Walker had the fastest time of the day - 6.7750 seconds - in his first run for the win. Kyle Welch, who posted fast times in both runs, took second with his 7.0690 second run in the last heat. Ryan Preece rounded out the top three with a 7.1510 run in his first heat. The only female competitor at Mt. Garfield, Molly

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SEPT. 13, 2014 INSIDE & OUT AT LOUIE’S SPORTS TAVERN IN LAPEER, MICH.

http://www.liveitrightdreamride.com/the-merchandise-1/ 14

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September 2014

Jockomo Baldino on first run in the Xtreme Class

Carbon (see cover photo), unfortunately crashed out in both runs.

John Koester was faster than all of his competitors in the Xtreme Class with runs of 5.6870 and 5.6180 seconds, respectively. Michigander Anthony DeHart was fortunate to have a fast first run of 5.8070 seconds since he crashed out in the second heat. His first run time was quick enough for second place.

Triumph rider Phil Libhart wrapped up third with runs of 5.8330 and 5.8550.

Jay Sallstrom posted a super fast 5.1310 second time in the first heat to carry the Unlimited Class. Xtreme Class winner Koester took second in the Unlimited Class with a second heat run of 5.6860 seconds. Scott Wentz Jr. finished third with 5.7590 run in the second heat.

The results of the All Star Pro Shootout were similar to the points races.

Koester, Jockomo Baldina and Libhart took the top three places, respectivelyand most of the cash - in the Xtreme Class Shootout. Sallstrom, Vincent Nuzzoli and Koester took to the top three cash prizes in the Unlimited Class Shootout.

Overall, the 2014 Mt. Garfield Pro Hillclimb was filled with fast races, Continued on page 16

(Route 4) Miles: 150 Time: 3:58

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15

Continued from page 10 - The Preacher Speaks...

change and 160 curves in 12 miles. After a night in Paintsville, KY, we turned towards Michigan along US-23 to I-75. It was a beautiful six-day trip covering 2,230 miles.

Our second big trip took us west to the Sturgis Rally. My friend, Jimbo, renamed it “The Rally of Challenges.” We had some problems at the outset as rain hit us big time on I-80 in Indiana. After we pulled over to dress in our rain suits, Jimbo’s trike wouldn’t start.

We had no jumper cables or any other way to start the trike so Jimbo called the AMA Help Line. They had a flatbed tow truck to us within 45 minutes. The trike was towed to the Harley dealer in Michigan City, Indiana and, almost two C-notes later, Jimbo had a new battery and we were on our way. It rained like the dickens and, when it wasn’t raining, it seemed we were stuck in endless traffic. We spent the night near the Illinois/Indiana border in Genesco after doing only 457 miles for the day. The next day, we made up for it. The weather was gorgeous and our optimism high. Little did

we know that would be about the last nice day we saw.

We took I-385 North off I-80 at Cedar Rapids to US-20 West in lieu of taking I-80 all the way to I-29. This was a much more pleasant, scenic ride than staying on I80 and it cut some miles off the trip. We hit I-29 at Sioux City, Iowa and took that to I-90 West into Rapid City, arriving at 8:30 p.m. 853 miles for the day. We joked about riding around the hotel parking lot for 150 miles so we could get our Iron Butt designation. We had two other nice days during our trip and that was Monday and Thursday. The rest of the week basically sucked weather wise; it rained all or part of almost every day. I won’t go into great detail on rides we took in and around Sturgis

as they were all abbreviated due to weather. We did spend a lot of time in Wyoming with good friends Tom and Cindi from Minnesota. There, we hit Sundance, Aladdin, the Stone House Bar, the Flying V Ranch and down all the way to Newcastle. We enjoyed some good riding despite the weather. All in all, we rode a total of 3,433 miles for the week.

The rally was noticeably subdued; partly due to the weather and partly due to fewer riders in attendance. They claim there were 400,000 attendees, but I think it was closer to 300,000. We never really stood in line for gas and even the hotel parking lot, which is normally filled with bikes, was at least 50% cages. It seems many riders are waiting for next year for the 75th anniversary of the rally. It pains me to say this but, at this point, I do not plan on attending that rally.

For the rally weeks (one week before, the week of the rally, and one week after), 1.6 million riders and passengers are expected when normally there are about 400,000. In addition, room rates will be sky high. The Ramkota, which is just off I-90 at exit #59, has charged $199 per night during rally week for the past 15 years and I thought that was high. For next year’s rally, they are raising room rates to $350 per night. That seems to be the going rate although I heard that some are raising rates as high to $400 - $500 per night. I won’t pay that much money for a room. Besides, being in Sturgis with more than one million others… It’s dangerous enough with 400,000, I can’t imagine two to four times that many with varying levels of riding skill. Prices will likely be sky high everywhere and I envision waiting in gas lines for upwards of 30 to 45 minutes. Fortunately, there are other rallies.

Word of advice; if you are going to Sturgis next year for the 75th, you better book now and you better start saving your money.

Continued from page 15 - Hillclimb miraculous saves and even a couple mind blowing crashes. Live hillclimb competitions are more dramatic than those seen on Wide World of Sports in the good old days. Seen live, spectators get a better feel for the steepness of the hill, the speeds to the top and the athleticism of the racers. The racing was thoroughly entertaining and the spectators wildly appreciative.

Michigan’s Anthony DeHart in Heat 1

Todd Libhart of Libhart Brother’s Racing

16

www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

September 2014

Motorcycling & Law

Difference Between Motorcycle and Moped

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!

by Dondi Vesprini It is common for an avid motorcyclist to own more than one motorcycle. It is also common for motorcycling families to own various bikes of different types and engine sizes to correspond with the riding skills and interests of the individual rider. For that reason, it is important to understand the difference between a “motorcycle� and a “moped� as those terms are defined by relevant law.

A motorcycle is defined under MCL 500.3101(7)(c) as “a vehicle having a saddle or seat for the use of the rider, designed to travel on not more than 3 wheels in contact with the ground, which is equipped with a motor that exceeds 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement. The wheels on any attachment to the vehicle shall not be considered as wheels in contact with the ground. Motorcycle does not include a moped, as defined in section 32b of the Michigan vehicle code, Act No. 300 of the Public Acts of 1949, being section 257.32b of the Michigan Compiled Laws.�

MCL 257.32b defines a moped as a “2or 3-wheeled vehicle which is equipped with a motor that does not exceed 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement, produces 2.0 brake horsepower or less, and cannot propel the vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on a level surface. The power drive system shall not require the operator to shift gears.�

The reason such a distinction is important for purposes of the Michigan No Fault law is because if a rider is operating his/ her own motorcycle and the motorcycle is not insured, the rider is disqualified from receiving no fault benefits in the event he/she is involved in an accident with a motor vehicle.

However, Michigan law provides that a moped is not required to be insured. MCL 257.801e(1).

Thus, if a rider is operating his/her own moped, and is involved in an accident with a motor vehicle, such rider is entitled to no fault benefits regardless of whether the moped is insured or not.

The practical effect of this is I have had multiple cases where my client has been injured while riding what may look like a motorcycle but is legally categorized as a moped. In some of these cases, the no fault insurance adjuster has advised the rider that the vehicle he/she was operating was a “motorcycle� and denying the rider no fault benefits for failing to have insurance on the vehicle. Riders who don’t understand the legal difference between a moped and a motorcycle may not understand the categorical error that the adjuster is making and will thus go without the no fault benefits they are otherwise entitled to.

Thus, it pays to understand the legal definition and differences between a motorcycle and a moped, so you will understand your legal right to no fault benefits if you are injured while riding a moped.

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. Give me a call at (248-569-4646) or shoot me an e-mail at Dondi@buckfirelaw.com.

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!

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 Indiana, contact: Donald “Moose� Parish mooseparish@sbcglobal.net

In Kentucky, contact: Gary Dehner g.dehner@insightbb.com

In Michigan, contact: Gregg Mitchell mi_hsta@voyager.net In Ohio, contact: Doug McPeak coach-mac@columbus.rr.com

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Continued from page 13 - Live It Right motivation to The Live It Right Dream Ride today.

It’s incomplete though. It’s insufficient. It’s not that simple, nor that easy. “Living it right” is as complicated, emotional, and uncomfortable as it is incredible, romantic, and beautiful. It has to be.

That’s what completes the picture.

I didn’t know this until it hit me – my own period of darkness. It wasn’t planned; it just happened. Like an uppercut from Iron Mike, it hit me square in the jaw and knocked me to the ground.

Down for the count. Paralyzed. Weak.

Hopeless. Sad. But not “depressed.” Not me. “Depression” is what happens to other people. “Weak” people. Not me. NOT me!

“Snap out of it,” I told myself.

“Cheer up!” “Get over It.” I couldn’t. I tried. It didn’t work. Beer did. So did whiskey. But Mom raised me well enough to know I shouldn’t rely on painkillers. I looked for other answers. I bought a motorcycle and rode it from the Canadian border to Mexico City. That helped, but it didn’t fix anything.

Depression, I later learned, is a disease – not a weakness. You can’t simply snap out of it. Those who have met “Brutus” (my personalized name for Captain Darkness), know what I’m talking about. When he comes knockin’, the most I can do is ready my toolbox (friends, family, yoga, meditation, a journal, healthy food, and any professional help I might need) and prepare for the ride.

On August 11th, 2014, Emily and I were issued another reminder that it’s not easy to “Live It Right.” Robin Williams took his own life. If money and fame don’t bring happiness, what does? Love, gratitude, simplicity, serenity, friendship, and sometimes professional help – my answer.

In taking this trip, in titling our adventure The Live It Right Dream Ride, Emily and I

are not presuming that life is easy. It isn’t. And neither is adventure travel.

The Live It Right Dream Ride has been wonderful so far, but it hasn’t been perfect. We’ve been cold, hot, disappointed, and homesick. We’ve been tired, frustrated, annoyed, and anxious. That’s part of this journey because it’s part of the human experience. So is joy, romance, beauty, friendship, laughter, and love. We’ve come to appreciate the small pleasures of this trip: the sun rising over our campsite, dew and fog drifting into the morning air, the sound of the engine each time it starts without issue. This trip is about experiencing the full spectrum of emotions and opening up to everything this beautiful world has to offer – whatever it has to offer.

When times get tough, we sometimes need encouragement; other times we need a pillow. I know this because I have benefited from depression. I’ve also suffered from it. If all good Mounting & things must come to an end, then Balancing so must the bad things. It’s the with tire purchase yin to the yang; the natural opposition that keeps us in Tires, tune-ups and brakes for your motorcycle. Most brands and models. Now is the time to get your balance. service and repair work done - before our service department gets jammed. Call or stop by our store …I’m 15 again. Mom today to schedule your service or repairs. Don’t wait ‘til the last minute! wasn’t saying life would be No tire is easy. She was bridging a gap too big.

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www.midwestmotorcyclist.com

Continued on next page

September 2014

Tech-Care Development Serves Racers Waterford, Michigan - Tech-Care Suspension has been in business for a few years. The business was established when Tech-Care owner and motocross racer, Dave Bowman, recognized a need for suspension rebuild and set up services for the motocross and off-road market. The business took off especially after Bowman began offering trackside support for racers in both Michigan and Florida.

Fast forward a few years. Bowman's other business, Small Displacement Motorsports, offering parts, accessories and service to on- and off-road motorcycle enthusiasts, was growing and consuming more of his time and attention. One of his technicians, Tim Bennett, offered to buy Dave's trackside support business and Bowman accepted. Bennett is a graduate of Motorcycle Mechanics Institute and had 10 years of professional experience. He had been working for Bowman since he was 17.

Bennett, who is engaged to Heather Bowman, his business partner and Dave's daughter, grew the trackside-support business. His mechanical skill was recognized by some pro motocross racers like Justin Barcia and Matt Lemoine. He gained a reputation for effectively interpreting a racer's needs even when he or she couldn't technically explain what was wrong or needed. Bennett stays in touch with racers to ensure they're satisfied with his work and happy with the results. He also knows the rules regarding

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Jacket Liners modifications authorized by major racing organizations. The business grew. The more time he spent at the track, the more he connected with pro racers. It also meant that he and Heather were spending most of their time on the road.

Two months ago, the pair established TechCare Development and set up shop in Waterford, Michigan as a work space and base of operations. Much of their suspension and engine work comes from professional racers in the Canadian Pro Motocross series including Nathan Bles, Jesse Pierce and James Roberts as well as their on-going trackside support work.

The goal is to continue to provide premium services including trackside support to professional motocross racers and gradually offer those same services to amateur racers and off-road riders. Customers will be able to ship their suspension, engines or complete motorcycles to Tech-Care Development (TCD) for service and repairs.

TCD will customize the customer's motorcycle to his or her needs and skills and ship the parts or motorcycle back.

For more information about Tech-Care Development's services, call (248) 795-2295 or visit their soon-to-belaunched website at www.tcdracing.com.

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Please also consider buying a Live It Right Dream Ride t-shirt or sticker available on our website. During the month of September, we’ll be donating 50% of all proceeds to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). For information about NAMI’s services, visit www.nami.org. #itstime

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53379 Gratiot Avenue, Suite B Chesterfield, MI 48051 (586) 270-6595 www.motorcyclemikes.com

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Is a Mobility Scooter a Motor Vehicle?

by Jason Waechter, Esq. What is a “motor vehicle”? The legal definition of this term varies from state to state, but for the most part it’s easy enough to guess what is or is not a motor vehicle. In Michigan, where my firm is headquartered, there is a case before the courts that has the potential to change the definition of “motor vehicle”, and could also change the rules with regards to Personal Insurance Protection (PIP) coverage.

It’s important to disclose right away that I am not representing the client in the story I am about to tell you, nor have I ever met him or spoken to him about his case. I do not have any “insider” information in this case and the only details I know are those that have been published in the news. My comments are based solely on my opinions about the facts that have been made publicly available. That said, I think this is an interesting case that many legal professionals will follow closely as it develops.

The story starts off with a man riding his motorized mobility scooter - essentially an electric wheelchair - to a donut shop near his home. The man was paralyzed from the waist down in a work accident back in 2004, but thanks to his motorized mobility scooter and electric wheelchair, he remained mobile and fairly independent. On the day in question, he was crossing the street when he was struck by an SUV who turned right at the intersection. While both sides of the case agree that the contact between the SUV and the scooter was

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relatively minor, it did cause the scooter to tip, which caused the victim new injuries and made some of his previous injuries even worse.

For example, the victim and his lawyer allege that being hit by the SUV caused damage to his colostomy wound, to the point that it had to be relocated. They also allege that the crash tore the victim’s scrotum, hurt his neck and back, caused stomach hernias, and worsened Ce circulation problems to his legs. Since he was leb ou rati hit, the victim alleges he has required roundr 2 ng the-clock medical care, and has not been able 1 ye s to enjoy the independent lifestyle he was used ar! t to. To date, the victim claims he has incurred over $2m in medical costs. His doctors have told him he needs another surgery which could cost over $150,000. Because of these mounting medical costs, the victim asked his lawyer to file a Personal Insurance Protection (PIP) claim with the SUV driver’s insurer.

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In my mind, this is a pretty cut-and-dry case: The victim was crossing the street on his mobility scooter as a pedestrian when he was hit by the SUV; police even referred to him as a pedestrian in their reports. Being hit by the SUV caused him injuries, which in turn have created medical bills. It seems to me that the SUV driver’s insurance company should be paying the medical costs of the victim.

Instead, the insurance company is trying to avoid paying benefits by claiming that he was driving a “motor vehicle” (his mobility scooter) on a public highway without PIP insurance. They claim if the “driver” of a “motor vehicle” doesn’t pay in to the PIP system, they shouldn’t be allowed to claim benefits from that system.

But is a motorized mobility scooter really a “motor vehicle”? The insurance company is hinging their denial of this claim on a definition in Michigan’s Insurance Code [MCL 500.3101(2)(e)], which says a “motor vehicle” is “a vehicle… operated or designed for operation upon a public highway by power other than muscular power which has more than two wheels.”

In my opinion, the insurance company is unlikely to win on that argument alone. I think it’s a stretch to say that a motorized mobility scooter or electric wheelchair is “designed for operation” on a highway, first of all. Second, the Michigan Vehicle Code is very specific in their definition of a “motor vehicle”: “Motor vehicle does not include an electric personal assistive mobility device,” (MCL 257.33). I think in this case the victim should get PIP benefits from the insurer of the SUV driver, but it’s not up to me.

One of the reasons this case is so interesting from a legal perspective is the potential, if the SUV driver’s insurance company were to succeed with their argument, for a change in how “motor vehicles” are defined. Another reason? If a judge were to rule against the victim in this case, it could potentially force people who operate motorized mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs to purchase PIP coverage if they want to use them to get around on public roads.

This would be a huge benefit to insurance companies, particularly as the population ages in the United States and these types of assistive devices become more and more popular.

This decision could have a big impact for crash victims and their families, and I know many of us within the legal profession will be following it closely. To see one of the published articles about this particular case, visit http:// bit.ly/VcrtAc. 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 1-877-BIKER 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.

September 2014

Events Events do change. Please call ahead.

Michigan August 30 5th Annual Legion Riders GROOVESTOCK American Legion Post 298 228 N. 20th Street, Battle Creek, MI $8 ‘13 & up September 4-13 45th Stevens Fall Trip to Blue Grass Pkwy, Wheels of Time Museum & The Dragon 3636 S. Huron Rd., Bay City, MI (989) 737-0190 September 5-6 Indian Motorcycles Demo Truck Riders must have a motorcycle endorsement, helmet, eye protection, jacket, long pants and boots1765 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 248.920.2000 www.MotorCityMotorcycles.com September 6 R Nine T Demo Open House 5995 South Division, Grand Rapids, MI (616) 530-6900 www.bmwmcgr.com

September 13-14 Dual Sport Lite Bring out your big or small Dual Sport Practice riding 2/1 tracks, dirt roads and grassy fields Sharon and Jim Reinerts’ Farm 5105 W. Grand River Rd. Owosso, MI For more information visit BMWTCD.ORG, reply to this email or call 517 651 6427 September 12-14 8th Annual Bikes on the Bricks Downtown Flint, MI http://bikesonthebricks.com/ September 14 32nd Annual Battle of the Brits Camp Dearborn 1700 General Motors Road, Milford, MI 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. $6 per vehicle entry fee For info, www.metrotriumphriders.com metrotriumphriders@ymail.com September 20 Downtown Homer Car, Motorcycle, Tractor & Bicycle Show - 9 am- 3 pm Free Registration 50/50 drawings and horseshoe tournament Homer, MI Brad Stuart 517-568-7117 Jim Lingenfelter 517-414-8468 September 21 All Clubs Day, Downtown Stockbridge, MI September 27 Oktoberfest Open House BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan 14855 N. Sheldon Rd., Plymouth, MI 734.453.0500 www.bmwmcsem.com

September 6 The Ton-Up Motorcycle & Music Festival 10 E. Cross St, Ypsilanti, MI 48198 (734) 879-1201 September 6 11th Annual Women Sponsored Motorcycle Ride Biker Bob’s Harley-Davidson 14100 Telegraph Road, Taylor, MI $30 / person Reg. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

(313) 969-9206 September 6 Bikes for Trykes Scooter’s Bar & Grill 6004 Torrey Road, Flint, MI $15 single; $20 double (810) 965-5548

Indiana August 23 ABATE Region 2 MDA I Sent a Kid to Camp Jasper County Fairgrounds SR-114, 2 miles east of I-65 Rensellaer, IN Gates open at 10 a.m. $25/ person (219) 808-3182 (574) 225-2068 August 30 Sarah Strong Memorial Ride Hoosier Harley-Davidson

September 13 5th Annual Vintage Motorcycle Day Sharon and Jim Reinerts’ Farm 5105 W. Grand River Rd., Owosso, MI For more information visit BMWTCD.ORG, reply to this email or call 517 651 6427 September 13 View Newspaper Group Beer Festival Louie’s Sports Tavern Lapeer, MI www.mihomepaper.com

Elkhart, IN Ride begins 10 a.m. $20/single; $30 w/ passenger September 6 ABATE Region 7 Charity Ride to benefit the Decatur County Special Olympics Greensburg Eagles 920 E. Main Street, Greensburg, IN Reg 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.; Depart Noon $15 / person; $25 / couple (731) 614-9226 September 6 ABATE Region 3 Wabash County Dam Ride Wabash Moose Lodge 189 E. Market Street, Wabash, IN Reg. 10 a.m. to Noon $10 /rider; $5 / Passenger (260) 403-2379

September 13 Ride through Hell & Back for Jameson Fraternal Order of Eagles 141 Schroeder Park Drive Howell, MI Reg 10 a.m.

Depart 11 a.m. $40 rider; $50 w/ passenger (248) 462-2796

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Midwest Motorcyclist

September 6 BBQ Cookoff Join us for some excellent BBQ, live music and our always popular beer garden.

9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

2968 N. US Hwy 421 Just south of I-94 Michigan City, IN 219.878.8885 September 7 Ride for Health & Heroes (317) 745-7376 (317) 745-7594 September 13 2ndf Annual Lapel Eagles Ride Benefit for Tyler Thompson 110 East 9th Street Lapel, IN $15 Single Rider; $10/passenger Sign up 8 a.m.

(765) 617-7720 (765) 534-4577 September 13 Mark Allen Memorial Ride UAW Local 933 Union Hall 2320 South Tibbs Avenue Indianapolis, IN $25/rider; $15/ passenger Reg. 9 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

Departs 11 a.m.

(317) 709-1961 (317) 508-3865 September 27 ABATE Region 7 Jackson County Toy Run In memory of Shari Stahl Fraternal Order of Eagles 122 E. 2nd Street, Seymour, IN Reg 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. $10 / person (812) 522-7146

September 27 Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home Ride Southside Harley-Davidson I-65 & Southport Road Exit 103 $25 / rider $10 / passenger (317) 535-9487

Ohio August 23 Returning American Warriors Run Deshler American Legion 505 S. Sterns Ave. Deshler, OH Reg. 10 a.m. to noon Begins 12:30 p.m. $15 single; $20 couple (419) 966-9492 (419) 409-0349

Event Listings are FREE

R Nine T Demo OPEN HOUSE Saturday, September 6, 2014

Now is your chance to ride one of the hottest new models in 2014. We will have an R Nine T in stock and ready for demo rides. Don’t miss this opportunity!

We will also have a Scala Rider communications expert will be here to answer all of your Scala Rider questions.

Plus, we’ll have food, refreshments and special offers storewide.

BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids 5995 South Division, Grand Rapids, MI

(616) 530-6900

www.bmwmcgr.com

Latitude 41.855022 Longitude -85.66382

21

Open Terrain: Exploring the World and Soul by Motorcycle When Your Partner’s on the Road

by Nicole Espinosa Who can resist a grand solo adventure, anyway? But, what happens if you’re torn about leaving a partner or family behind? Or worse yet, get left behind. How in the world do you keep the love alive with thousands of miles or even oceans between you? It’s simple. You dig in deep to express that love…from either end.

You guys are getting the personal scoop on me here, because I’m going to be completely honest about what I’m going through right now relationship-wise. Last October, my three week southwestern solo launched me into some heavy reevaluation of my relationship with my boyfriend, Paul. We had gone through so much after coming together over his tongue cancer three years ago. We had been good friends when he was diagnosed and then, through the course of the healing

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process, we fell in love. I put anything for myself on hold for three years to give my all to him, until I felt he was strong enough to stand alone. Then it was finally time to give back to myself…with the gift of a riding vision quest through some gorgeous southwestern states.

The year prior to the solo launch, our relationship had slipped into a routine of unfamiliar territory for me. It became heavy with a dark cloud of non-communication and expansive distance. This had metastasized from the loathing that Paul felt for western medicine’s process of removing cancer…by butchering the body. It affected his whole outlook on life, and eventually our relationship. This turned out to be one of my biggest life lessons. It forced me to go within and love myself. This happened on my vision quest. Three weeks of helmet time led me to a big

decision. I had not been thriving in this home environment, at all. In fact, what had happened was the exact opposite of thriving. I felt drained of energy and joy. So after coming home from my trip after weeks of introspection, I took my life back, and asked to be set free. Paul loves me so deeply that he was willing to let go if that was what I wanted.

We continued living together as roommates up until the weekend of Overland Expo in May when Paul launched off on his Ride Round America and Alaska three-month tour.

This valuable alone time at home pushed me on an incredible journey of my own. Usually when left behind on an adventure, it’s not as easy to distract yourself as it is for the partner who is stimulated with something new every minute of the day on his or her road life. But this time, I used this solitude to go deeper within myself looking for answers. I ended up connecting with nature every morning on my barefoot meditation hike. This kept me balanced and focused on what I wanted out of life. But what happened next surprised the heck out of me.

As I quieted myself on top of the mountain on one clear and fragrant summer morning, I decided to do some distance energy healing on Paul to try and help him clear some negative emotions that were wrapped around his life perspective, due to the cancer. My motive for doing this was the hope of helping him heal in deeper ways, so that I could feel ok about moving on. What happened next was the exact opposite. He could feel the effects of my work on him as if layers were being lifted. This was also compounded by the inner journey that he was traversing during the extensive helmet time that he used for reflection of our relationship and how devastated he was over letting me go.

Honest revelations were being expressed by both sides, and the poetry of our love for one another starting slipping back into beautiful written expression. It was getting to

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the point of utter excitement and shaking anticipation over daily emails that contained both communication that addressed issues in a loving way, and the devotion of our deep love for one another. For me, there was no better combination for healing both parties.

It took being left behind this time around for me to learn my biggest life lesson. It was time to love myself. And as soon as I took a stand and said that I wanted something better for my life, I chose to love me in a way I hadn’t in a very long time. And that’s when I opened myself up to loving others once again. This beautiful journey that Paul and I are on couldn’t have played out any better for both of us to learn some of our most valuable lessons. And now it seems all the sweeter to have ridden into the depths of the valley between us to be able to reach the highest of peaks today.

And, now you catch me at one of my most excited and exhilarated moments of anticipation as I get ready to launch up the west coast from LA to Seattle, Washington, to meet Paul at my Mom’s next week. We will have been apart for three months by then.

That’s a very long time when you really miss someone to the core. In this case, expression of love not only kept the love alive, it rekindled it into a raging bonfire. Now as I journey up the coast on this particular solo trip, it will be one of my most treasured. This time I won’t be looking for answers, because I already found them. What I’ll be looking for is inching one mile closer to the one I adore, and that will color the world anew.

Nicole Espinosa is Mom to two great kids, founder / owner of www.ruggedrider.com, Managing Editor of Adventure Motorcycle magazine and soon-to-be RTW motorcycle adventurer. Communication welcome for Nicole: nicole@ruggedrider.com

September 2014

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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

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COOKOFF Saturday, September 6, 2014 • 9 a.m to 6 p.m.

Join us for some excellent BBQ, live music and our always popular beer garden. It’s always a good time. Don’t miss it!

Live Music Beer Garden

BBQ COMPETITION Rules and Regulations 1. We provide the slab of ribs. Baby Back.

2. They may pick them up 2 days in advance.

3. You must provide your own means of grilling, smoking.

4. The ribs must be grilled, smoked, whatever your process is, here at the Harley Shop.

5. They may be prepped prior to bringing them.

Example: Rubs, marinades.

6. The ribs must be ready by 4 p.m. for judging.

7. We will have a panel of judges who will decide the winner.

8. Prize given once Winner is determined.

We will need to know by September 1st who is participating. We will need to have the total number of competitors grilling to get the right amount of ribs for everyone. The event starts at 12 pm. You may come earlier if needed to set up and get started. There will be bands and a beer garden. So there will be activity going on while you cook. If you have any questions please call Jessica at 219.878.8885 or 219.871.0365.

Three Great Great Brands Brands Three at One Location at One Location

2966 N US Route 421 Michigan City, IN 219.871.0365 2968 N US Route 421

www.triumph.hondaofmichigancity.com

Michigan City, IN 219.878.8885 www.hdmichigancity.com

2968 N US Route 421 Michigan City, IN 2968 N US Route 421 219.878.8885 Michigan City, IN www.hdmichigancity.com 219.871.0365 www.hondaofmichigancity.com/

2966NNUS US Route Route 421 2968 421 Michigan City, IN Michigan City, IN 219.871.0365 219.871.0365 www.triumph.hondaofmichigancity.com www.hondaofmichigancity.com/