Alan Dockery, Lincoln Infield, Brad Patton, Kathy Lynn Parnell, Len “3 Wheel” Montgomery, Chi, Cruising Gal, Molly Infield, Rob Harper, Tim Priest, Jerry Andrews
WildThing, Alan Dockery, Lincoln Infield, Kathy Lynn Parnell, Floyd Baker, Len “3 Wheel” Montgomery, Chi, Cruising Gal, Rob Harper, Tim Priest, Jerry Andrews
LETTER FROM THE EDITORS
une? June? It’s wIld to thInk that we are halfway through 2025. But don’t think about it too long or it will be winter again. Daytona, OBX and Myrtle Beach Spring Rallies have come and gone and we have been tearing up the road. I’m ready for more, so bring it on June! We are kicking off June with a couple swap meets a bunch of dyno shootouts and has anyone else noticed that 2025 is the year of the stunt show? Stunt shows have been popping up just about every weekend all over the Carolinas. Check out the Cruisin’ Calendar if you are looking for something to do.
Big things are coming up for the Carolinas’ Full Throttle Magazine and maybe you should check them out. We are three shows into the 2025 Carolinas’ Full Throttle Magazine bike show tour and our next stop is at Down Home Harley-Davidson on June 21st. It’s gonna be a big day with vendors, live music and a bikini contest! The Full Throttle Bike Show is a free registration show, we have multiple classes there are always a ton of great bikes. Does your bike have what it takes to win some hardware? Let’s have a look! We are hosting eight bike shows in 2025 all culminating in “The Big One”… The Carolinas’ Full Throttle Magazine Custom Bike Show in the Greensboro Coliseum on January 31, 2026. In Greensboro we will be dishing out over $12k in cash prizes. We are looking for over 300 bikes, 200 vendors and have extended the show into TWO joining rooms. It’s gonna be awesome, get your build going now!
Summer has officially started y’all and I expect to see y’all out on the road. There are endless miles of roads to ride in the Carolinas. Mountain roads, country roads, beach roads, we really have it made. Get out there and ride your motorcycle. Go somewhere different, skip your regular watering hole and have an adventure. Motorcycles are for riding. If you miss the event, don’t worry, you can read about it in next month’s Full Throttle Magazine.
&d amerIcan Performance has been In mooresville, NC, for seven years and grown from a tiny shop to a nice large multi-building facility. The crew at Down & Dirty can now do everything a biker needs, from minor service to complete bike builds or sell you a nice bike. That’s why Joey answers the phone, “D&D American Performance, where all your hopes and dreams come true.”
I’ve known Dewey for several years since he worked at Tilley H-D in Statesville. He grew up on Long Island in New York, riding with Dad and Uncles. After the motorcycle program at Davidson Community College, he got a job at Tilley’s. Through the years Dewey has learned lots about Harleys and is now a Master Mechanic. He can service or repair anything you need. Working with a local machine shop, D&D can build some serious performance engines and transmissions.
That El Diablo on the cover is a great example of the performance bikes D&D builds.
“Look at that El Diablo. It’s making 150 horsepower and 150 torque. That is the epitome of what we can do. Big bore kit, welded and trued crank, bigger heads, intake and throttle body, pipes and back cut transmission,” Dewey said.
D&D does a lot more than performance builds. Their customers are riding some of the coolest machines in town. That
Story and Photo by alan dockery
Venom Green bike is a Road King they customized with a Low Rider ST fairing. Damn it is gonna look real sweet cruising around Lake Norman.
Joey is the guy you meet when you come in the front door. His background is sales and will work with you to plan the service or upgrades you need for your bike.
He is proud that the pre-owned bikes they sell, Harleys and Metrics, are good machines for a good price. No auction junk with a bad past. They make sure you are buying a bike that is ready to ride and enjoy. It will be fully serviced and upgraded before offered for sale. Joey can have you riding with easy financing and no dealer fees.
As D&D grows, they have recently hired Erika as Marketing Director. So, expect more parties at the shop. D&D has always been a supporter of local bike nights so y’all are gonna see Erika out there promoting D&D American Performance in the Charlotte and Lake Norman area.
“I’m excited to represent D&D as we attend events and host our own. We recently had our first bike night here at the shop. With free beer, live music, and some awesome vendors, everyone had a great time. Our goal is to make each one better than the last though, so soon they’ll feature a burnout pit and we’ll be rolling out a new merch line as well.” Erika said.
D&D American Performance now has a 5000 SF building with showroom and can be your one shop for everything –service to performance builds, NC inspections, accessories, apparel, helmets and they always give you 20% off tires.
Down & Dirty is a small local family business trying to do what the dealerships are supposed to. Take good care of the customers. The shop is easy to find at 1992 Charlotte Hwy, Mooresville. They are at the Hwy 21 and Hwy 115 Split. Call them today 980-444-0779 and see how they can help with your motorcycle dreams.
Oh, and if you are out riding on a Saturday afternoon and need an ice cream stop, the local Mister Softee truck might be out front. Good Old Fashioned Yankee Ice Cream.
6 – 9 pm
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JUN 1 2ND ANNUAL EVEL TWINS MC PARTS SWAP MEET 12642 Old US Hwy 52, Winston-Salem, NC. 10am-?, motorcycle parts, free entry bike show, good times. $25/ spot incl food. Rob Whitlow, 336-309-4065
JUN 1 TOBACCO ROAD HARLEY-DAVIDSON PARTS SWAP MEET 1126 S. Saunders St., Raleigh, NC. 10am-3pm, free lunch with Mark Hendrix. www.tobaccoroadhd.com, 919832-2261
JUN 1 RIDE TO SAVE LIVES Shooters Tavern, 2915 Norlina Rd., Henderson, NC. Reg 10am, KSU 11am, $20. Speakers, resources, food, live music. Proceeds to Lost Voices of Fentanyl. www.lvof.org
JUN 1 BENEFIT RIDE FOR JAMES DORIAN OXENDINE C & P Mini Mart, 700 Union Chapel Rd., Pembroke, NC. Reg 12:30pm, KSU 2:30pm, $10/single, $15/double. Proceeds help Dorian who is awaiting his second heart transplant. Ivey Lassiter, 910-316-9029 or Mark Lassiter, 910-280-7602
JUN 6 UPTOWN LEXINGTON BIKE NIGHT
Bull City Ciderworks, 599 S Railroad St., Lexington, NC. 5:30-9pm, music, food trucks, vendors, best bike on the lot, best burnout, cash prizes. Jack Waters, jackw@bullcityciderworks.com, 336-425-5959
JUN 6-8 OTR BACK OF THE DRAGON MOTORCYCLE & HOTROD RALLY 592 Main St., Tazwell, VA. Camping, stunt shows, live music, giveaways, riding, cruise in, BMX stunts, parades. www.backofthedragon.com/ otrevent/
JUN 7 TRIAD HONOR FLIGHT RIDE & FUNDRAISER Springers, 405 Rocky Knoll Rd., Greensboro, NC. Kickstands up at noon, $20/rider, $10/passenger, dinner, auction, live music.
JUN 7 14TH ANNUAL IRON CHARIOT RIDE
Select Cycle, 430 N. Eugene St., Greensboro, NC. Reg 9am, KSU 10am, $25/rider, $5/ passenger incl coffee, donuts & lunch. Police escorted ride. Benefits Teen Challenge. Mike Williams Sr, williams@gladwellinsurance.com, 336-314-5184
*Please drink responsibly.
JUN 7 3RD ANNUAL BIKE & CAR SHOW Randolph County Court House, 176 E Salisbury St., Asheboro, NC. 11am-2pm, Reg 9am, $10/entry fee. Food trucks, vendors, sound competition, multiple class trophies. Benefits Hospice, www.southernshewolvesmc. com, www.shewolvesmc.com
JUN 7 RIKI’S RIDE Tilley Harley-Davidson, 1226 Morland Dr., Statesville, NC. Ride is limited to 40 motorcycles. Raffle, food, beer*, live music. Benefits 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline. Sign up at www.cathousecoffee.com
JUN 7 ROLLING THUNDER NC2 POKER RUN Great Western Motorcycles, 1787 Salisbury Hwy, Statesville, NC. First bike out 10am, $25/bike, $35/2 up incl poker hand & lunch, $5/add hand, rain date: 06/14. Vendors, BBQ, live music, door prizes, free giveaways at Tilley Harley-Davidson. www.tilleyhd.com, 704-872-3883
JUN 7 2ND ANNUAL POKER RUN FOR UNION CO. SPECIAL OLYMPICS ATHLETES Iron Horse Motorcycles, 1572 Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe, NC. Reg 9:30am, KSU 11am, $25/rider incl poker hand, shirt, meal ticket & commemorative item. Best & worst hand prizes/awards. Leslie Laney, 704-9964130
JUN 7 TRICKY RICKY RIDE FOR WISHES & MUSIC FESTIVAL 3 Stooge’s Cycles, 1004 N. Hwy 87, Elon, NC. Reg 10am, KSU 12pm, $20/bike, $15/passenger. Live music, prizes, raffles, vendors, food trucks. Allison, 919-4828601 or Doug 336-214-0414.
JUN 7 POKER RUN FOR CHRIS WEBB Big Daddy’s Roadhouse, 7304 NC-55 S, FuquayVarina, NC. Reg 9am, $20/sheet. Auction, 20% payout. Proceeds go to Chris who is facing medical issues. Spons. By, NENC & V-Twin Cruisers.
JUN 7 4TH ANNUAL I LOVE YOU HEATH
LIPFORD POKER RUN Crossroads HarleyDavidson, 1921 US Hwy 421, Wilkesboro, NC. Reg 9am, first bike out 11am, $20/suggested donation. Live music, games, raffles, best, 2nd best & worst hand cash prizes, food & drinks. www.crossroads-hd.com, 336-667-1003
JUN 7 PERFORMANCE SHOOT OUT Cox’s Double Eagle Harley-Davidson, 7540 NC Hwy 15 501 S, Pinehurst, NC. 10am-4pm, FREE to compete, open to ALL bikes, cash & prizes, vendors, food, music. Email marketing@doubleeagleharley.com to pre-reg. www. doubleeagleharley.com, 910-420-1564
JUN 7 8TH ANNUAL HEAL THE BURN CHARITY RIDE First National Bank, 1750 Durham Rd., Roxboro, NC. Reg 9:30am, KSU 11am, $25/bike, $15/passenger incl lunch, shirts available while supplies last. Pre-reg avail. Benefits The Firefighter’s Burned Children Fund of Person Co. nc22@redknightsmc. com
JUN 7 RIDE FOR RYNN PARKER POKER RUN BullDog Harley-Davidson, 1043 Outlet Center Dr., Smithfield, NC. KSU 10am, $20/ rider, $10/passenger. Music, food & drinks. Proceeds will help with recovery. Johnston Co Dragon Slayers MC, www.dragonslayersmc. org
JUN 7 RIDE FOR A CAUSE Union Point Church, 2912 Trent Rd., New Bern, NC. Reg 8am, KSU 11am, $35/rider. Prizes for best & worst hand, 50/50, beary the hatchet, shirts avail. Benefits Jack, who is undergoing cancer treatment. Pre-reg req. Jeff Gray, 316-8334315
JUN 7 THUNDER ROAD H-D DYNO DAY & RICK DOSS BIKE SHOW 4870 Riverside Dr., Danville, VA. Dyno shootout reg, 8:30am, first run 9am, awards 4:30pm. Bike show reg 10am, judging 12pm, awards 4:30pm. www. thunderroadhd.com, 434-822-2453
JUN 7 MISS DOG HOUSE HARLEY-DAVIDSON BIKINI COMPETITION 1178 Galleria Blvd., Rock Hill, SC. 11am-4pm, DJ, free beer* & bikini bike wash with the Dog House Divas, food trucks. www.doghousehd.com, 803-327-1183
JUN 7 8TH ANNUAL SCHOOLS OUT AFTER RALLY RIDE The H-D Shop At The Beach, 4002 Hwy 17 S., North Myrtle Beach, SC. Reg 10am, KSU 11:30am, $15/rider, $5/passenger. Benefits The Rubber Side Down Foundation. Hosted by Rivertown Riders RC. rivertownriders@yahoo.com
JUN 8 RIDING HIGH HARLEY-DAVIDSON SUMMER BASH 3036 NC Hwy 68, High Point, NC. 10am-3pm, free food & beer*, live music, & prizes. www.ridingharleydavidson. com, 336-273-1101
JUN 8 BIKES, BURGERS & BREWS CrossRoads Harley-Davidson, 1921 US Hwy 421, Wilkesboro, NC. 1-4pm, come enjoy bikes, burgers & brews. www.crossroads-hd.com, 336-667-1003
JUN 11 RIDING 22 STATES IN 22 DAYS VETERAN SUICIDE AWARENESS RIDE
High Voltage Harley-Davidson, 365 Sha Ln, Spartanburg, SC. Reg 8:30am, KSU 9:30am, $20/rider, $10/passenger. Benefits STRIVE. Order shirts and FMI, www.riding22in22vsa. com
JUN 12 BLUE COLLAR CYCLE CO BIKE NIGHT 1814 US Hwy 70 SW, Hickory, NC. 6-9pm, live music, food & drinks avail., vendors. www.bluecollarcycle.com, 828-228-0189
JUN 12 BULLDOG HARLEY-DAVIDSON
BIKE NIGHT 1043 Outlet Center Dr., Smithfield, NC 5-8pm, food truck, vendors, free beer* with BullDog Babes. 919-938-1592, www.bulldogharleydavidson.com
JUN 12 DOG HOUSE HARLEY-DAVIDSON
BIKE NIGHT 1178 Galleria Blvd, Rock Hill, SC. 5-8pm, live music, food truck, free beer* with The Dog House Divas, $500 gift card giveaway entry. 803-327-1183, www.doghousehd.com
JUN 13 SMOKIN’ HARLEY-DAVIDSON BIKE NIGHT 3441 Myer Lee Dr., Winston-Salem, NC. 6-9pm. Live music, food trucks, pinstriping, free beer*. www.smokinharley.com, 336-722-3106
JUN 13-14 SOUTH CENTRAL BIKEFEST
535 Jonbil Rd., Chase City, VA. Fri: gates open @12pm, food, vendors, cruise in, bike wash, live music. Sat: gates open @7am, food, vendors, DJ, audio/sound show, live music, rodeo games, poker run, loudest bike, best tattoo, best burnout contests, bike wash. Benefits The Barksdale Cancer Foundation & The Mecklenburg Co. Cancer Assoc. Sponsored by Thunder Road H-D. Lee Brankley, 434-210-1503
JUN 13-14 THE ALL HARLEY WORLD SHOOTOUT Kil-Kare Raceway, 1166 Dayton Xenia Rd., Xenia, OH. FMI, Paulshdfatboy@ netscape.net
JUN 14 BIKINI BIKE WASH Tilley HarleyDavidson, 1226 Morland Dr., Statesville, NC. 11am-3pm, bike wash with Miss Tilley H-D & ladies, food trucks, vendors, free raffle, live music. www.tilleyhd.com, 704-872-3883
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JUN 14 STEVE’S LEATHER CUSTOMER
APPRECIATION DAY 2461 Corporation Pkwy, Burlington, NC. Starts 9am, everything is on sale, free food 12-5pm. 336-229-7002, steveiseley@yahoo.com
JUN 14 CRUISIN’ THE COUNTY Cabarrus Brewing,329 McGill Ave NW, Concord, NC. Reg 10am, KSU 11am, escorted ride. $20/ bike, incl free shirt & bracelet while they last. Benefits Cabarrus County Veterans Services. Sponsored by Steel Rain MC & Cabarrus Brewing Co. 704-490-4487
JUN 14 BURNOUT BLAST & BIKE SHOW
BrickTree Brewing Co., 414 E. Water St., Lincolnton, NC. 10am-6pm, vendors, music, bike show, food, burnout contest. Proceeds go to Disabled American Veterans CH 53. 980-785-4970
JUN 14 FATHER’S DAY SMOKEOUT Dog House Harley-Davidson, 1178 Galleria Blvd., Rock Hill, SC. 11am-3pm, mobile cigar lounge, BBQ vendor, live music, free beer* & bikini bike wash with the Dog House Divas, Father’s Day gift basket giveaway. www.doghousehd. com, 803-327-1183
JUNE 18 JOE SMITH BIKE NIGHT Pine Tree Tavern 3880 Bethania Station Rd. WinstonSalem, NC. 5-10pm. Live music 336-815-1220
JUN 19 BLUE COLLAR CYCLE CO BIKE NIGHT 1017 Old W. Innes St., Salisbury, NC. 6-9pm, live music, food & drinks avail., vendors, best bike comp. www.bluecollarcycle. com, 980-621-7399
JUN 20 THE MASTERS GENTLEMEN’S CLUB 27TH ANNIVERSARY 1901 Mr. Joe White Ave., Myrtle Beach, SC. 9pm, wear your best all white summer apparel, complimentary food & drinks 9-11pm. www.mastersclubmyrtlebeach.com
JUN 21 BENEFIT RIDE FOR LADELHIA HALL Willie’s 4310 Old Rural Hall Rd., Winston-Salem, NC. Reg 10:30am, KSU 12pm, $15/single, $20/double. After party, music, door prizes, 50/50, raffles. Proceeds go to Ladelhia’s family. 336-744-9127
JUN 21 SUMMER SWAP MEET Cox’s HarleyDavidson of Asheboro, 2795 NC Hwy 134, Asheboro, NC. 10am-4pm, free beer*, food truck. Interested in being a vendor contact Simon Lucas, 336-629-2415. www.coxsharleydavidson.com
JUN 21 FULL THROTTLE MAGAZINE DOWN HOME DAYS BIKE SHOW 2215 Hanford Rd. Burlington, NC. Free reg 11am-2pm, awards 3pm. www.fullthrottemagazine.com, 336-885-5400
JUN 21 QUINCY V. LINEBERGER FOUNDATION BIKE RIDE CrossRoads Harley-Davidson, 1921 US Hwy 421, Wilkesboro, NC. Reg 9:15am, KSU 11am, $20/solo, $5/passenger. www.crossroads-hd.com, 336-667-1003
JUN 21 COX’S DOUBLE EAGLE HARLEYDAVIDSON CRUISE IN & BLOOD DRIVE 7540 NC Hwy 15-501 S, West End, NC. 9am-2pm, Red Cross Blood Drive, free food, cruise in. www.doubleeagleharley.com, 910420-1564
JUN 21 RIDING FOR RUSS Farmers Market, 106 M.L.K. Dr, Elizabethtown, NC. Reg 8am, KSU 10:15am, $25/single, $10/passenger BBQ incl. Live music BBQ avail. Hosted by, Blue Shepherds LERC
JUN 21 1ST ANNUAL HARVEY’S INVITATIONAL CRUISE IN Thunder Road HarleyDavidson, 4870 Riverside Dr., Danville, VA. 434-822-2453, www.thunderroadhd.com
JUN 21 DOG HOUSE HARLEY-DAVIDSON SUMMER KICKBACK 1178 Galleria Blvd., Rock Hill, SC. 11am-3pm, live music, food truck, free beer* with the Dog House Divas, dunk a Diva for a free Dog House Diva sticker. www.doghousehd.com, 803-327-1183
JUN 21-22 DOWN HOME DAYS Down Home
Harley-Davidson 2215 Hanford Rd. Burlington, NC. Sat: 11:30am-6:30pm, live music, Full Throttle Bike Show, Miss Down Home H-D contest, vendors, food trucks, blood drive + more. Sun: 10am-2pm, tech talk, free pancake & sausage breakfast, bike blessing, live music, vendors, food trucks. www.downhomeharley.com, 336-227-1261
JUN 22 BIKE DAYS Tilley Harley-Davidson, 1226 Morland Dr., Statesville, NC. 1-4pm, live music, bike games, BBQ, giveaways, food, prizes. www.tilleyhd.com, 704-872-3883
JUN 25 OTR THROTTLE THURSDAYS Main St, Mooresville, NC. 5-9pm, live music, food trucks, vendors, bike games. www.tilleyhd. com, 704-872-3883
JUN 27 UPTOWN LEXINGTON BIKE NIGHT Bull City Ciderworks, 599 S Railroad St., Lexington, NC. 5:30-9pm, music, food trucks, vendors, best bike on the lot, best burnout, cash prizes. Jack Waters, jackw@bullcityciderworks.com, 336-425-5959
JUN 28 FIRST RESPONDERS APPRECIATION DAY Riding High Harley-Davidson, 3036 NC Hwy 68, High Point, NC. 11am-2pm, food, drinks, give aways, 50/50, raffles. www.ridinghighharleydavidson.com, 336-273-1101
JUN 28 NW PIEDMONT PURPLE HEART FOUNDATION, INC. BENEFIT MOTORCYCLE, CAR & TRUCK SHOW Main Street United Methodist Church, 306 S. Main St., Kernersville, NC. 10am-2pm, spectators free, $25/to enter bike/vehicle. DJ, raffle, door prizes, 50/50. Benefits Northwest Piedmont Purple Heart Foundation, Inc. www.oldsalemchapteraaca.com
JUN 28 DON TILLEY DICE RUN Tilley Harley-Davidson, 1226 Morland Dr., Statesville, NC. Meet 9am, KSU 10am, $20/entry. Prizes, live music, vendors, food truck. www. tilleyhd.com, 704-872-3883
JUN 28 MAD MONKEY SIGNING DAY
Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson, 1126 S. Saunders St., Raleigh, NC. Meet & Greet with Max Flinders, race bike showcase, autographs, free food. www.tobaccoroadhd.com, 919-832-2261
JUN 28 HONOR THE FALLEN RIDE BullDog Harley-Davidson, 1043 Outlet Center Dr, Smithfield, NC. Reg 9am, KSU 11am, $20/ rider, $10/passenger, $25/car, incl lunch.
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Escorted ride, 50/50, door prizes. Benefits Trooper Nolan Sanders Foundation. Presented by Blue Knights NC XII. Albert Wood, 919-222-8624 or albertwood@gmail.com
JUN 28 DOG HOUSE HARLEY-DAVIDSON HIGH GEAR GIVEAWAY 1178 Galleria Blvd., Rock Hill, SC. 11am-3pm, custom helmet giveaway, H-D Canopy giveaway & more. Free beer* & cocktails with the Dog House Divas. www.doghousehd.com, 803-327-1183
JUL 4 RIDING HIGH HARLEY-DAVIDSON FAMILY COOKOUT 3036 NC Hwy 68, High Point, NC. 11am-3pm, free food, beer,* drinks, prizes & giveaways, rsvp for a free gift. www. ridinghighharleydavidson.com, 336-273-1101
JUL 5 SMOKIN’ HARLEY-DAVIDSON 4TH OF JULY PARTY 3441 Myer Lee Dr., WinstonSalem, NC. Stunt show, www.smokinharley. com, 336-722-3106
JUL 5 GRILL & CHILL Tobacco Road HarleyDavidson, 1126 S. Saunders St., Raleigh, NC. Free food 11:30am until supplies run out. Live music 12-4pm. www.tobaccoroadhd.com, 919-832-2261
JUL 10 BLUE COLLAR CYCLE CO BIKE NIGHT 1814 US Hwy 70 SW, Hickory, NC. 6-9pm, live music, food & drinks avail., vendors. www.bluecollarcycle.com, 828-228-0189
JUL 10 BULLDOG HARLEY-DAVIDSON
BIKE NIGHT 1043 Outlet Center Dr., Smithfield, NC 5-8pm, food truck, vendors, free beer* with BullDog Babes. 919-938-1592, www.bulldogharleydavidson.com
JUL 10 DOG HOUSE HARLEY-DAVIDSON
BIKE NIGHT 1178 Galleria Blvd, Rock Hill, SC. 5-8pm, live music, food truck, free beer* with The Dog House Divas, $500 gift card giveaway entry. 803-327-1183, www.doghousehd.com
JUL 11 SMOKIN’ HARLEY-DAVIDSON BIKE NIGHT 3441 Myer Lee Dr., Winston-Salem, NC. 6-9pm, www.smokinharley.com, 336-7223106
JUL 12 DEATHWISH FOREVER MEMORIAL EVENT The Pit Stop Sports Bar, 105 E. Main St., Sanford, NC. 11am-4pm, live music,
food trucks, vendors, burn out contest, raffle. Proceeds benefit Jeremy’s daughter, Ava’s College fund. FMI, Aje, at deathwishcultureco@yahoo.com
JUL 12 PANCAKE BREAKFAST Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson, 1126 S. Saunders St., Raleigh, NC. 9am, while supplies last. www. tobaccoroadhd.com, 919-832-2261
JUL 12 KING OF THE BAGGERS WATCH PARTY Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson, 1126 S. Saunders St., Raleigh, NC. Free food & beer*. www.tobaccoroadhd.com, 919-8322261
JUL 17 BLUE COLLAR CYCLE CO BIKE NIGHT 1017 Old W. Innes St., Salisbury, NC. 6-9pm, live music, food & drinks avail., vendors, best bike comp. www.bluecollarcycle. com, 980-621-7399
JUL 19 THROTTLE FOR DREAMS Riding High Harley-Davidson, 3036 NC-68, High Point, NC. Reg 8:30am, KSU 10am. Presented by Riding High H-D & A Bend And A Book. www.abedandabook.com, www.ridinghighharleydavidson.com, 336-273-1101
JUL 19 AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS POST 76 1ST ANNUAL POKER RUN & CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT Friendly Chevrolet, 2307 US-52, Albemarle, NC. Reg 9:45am, KSU10:30am, $25/person, $10/rider. Live music, food trucks & beverages. Rodney, 980234-6014
JUL 19 6TH ANNUAL DILLION’S RIDE CrossRoads Harley-Davidson, 1921 US Hwy 421, Wilkesboro, NC. Reg 9am, KSU 10:30am. Escorted ride, wreath laying ceremony, door prizes, entertainment. Proceeds go to Sgt. Dillon Baldridge Memorial Scholarship Fund, Inc. www.dillonsride.com
JUL 19 SOWING SEEDS POKER RUN Boone MotorCo, 3021 US-1, Franklinton, NC. Reg 9am, KSU 9:30-11am, staggard departure. $25/rider, $15/passenger incl dinner, rain date: 07/26. Cash prizes, live music, BBQ, raffles, 50/50. Benefits Local food pantry, Sowing Seeds NC, Inc. 919-375-3002, www. sowingseedsnc.org
JUL 19 CAROLINAS FULL THROTTLE
MAGAZINE DOG HOUSE H-D BIKE SHOW 1178 Galleria Blvd., Rock Hill, SC. Reg 10am2pm, event 11am-3pm, awards 3pm, FREE entry. Live music, food trucks, free beer*, vendors, door prizes, trophies. www.doghousehd. com, 803-327-1183
JUL 26 CVMA NC 15 NO VET LEFT BEHIND RIDE Brady’s Pub & Sports Bar, 27 Annette Dr., Benson, NC. Reg 9:30am, briefing 10:45am, 1st bike out 11am. $20/rider, $10/ passenger. Proceeds go to Military Missions In Action. www.militarymissionsinaction.org
JUL 26 MEMORIAL RIDE FOR EDDIE HILL (OPOSSUM) 17 Customs, 724 Hwy 17, Little River, SC. Sign up 9am, KSU 11am, $15/ person, $20/couple. Food & raffles after ride. Benefits The Hutton House & Kind Keepers No Kill Animal Shelter. 843-281-0525
JUL 27 BIKE DAYS Tilley Harley-Davidson, 1226 Morland Dr., Statesville, NC. 1-4pm, live music, bike games, BBQ, giveaways, food, prizes. www.tilleyhd.com, 704-872-3883
JUL 31 OTR THROTTLE THURSDAYS Main St, Mooresville, NC. 5-9pm, live music, food trucks, vendors, bike games. www.tilleyhd. com, 704-872-3883
AUG 1 UPTOWN LEXINGTON BIKE NIGHT
Bull City Ciderworks, 599 S Railroad St., Lexington, NC. 5:30-9pm, music, food trucks, vendors, best bike on the lot, best burnout, cash prizes. Jack Waters, jackw@bullcityciderworks.com, 336-425-5959
AUG 1-2 THE ALL HARLEY WORLD SHOOTOUT Wilkesboro Raceway, 744 Dragway Rd., Wilkesboro, NC. FMI, Paulshdfatboy@netscape.net
AUG 1-3 RALLY IN THE VALLEY Downtown Elkin, free event. Live music, organized rides, vendors, food trucks, biker games, biker church, pancake breakfast. www.exploreelkin. com/rally-in-the-valley
AUG 2 NW PIEDMONT PURPLE HEART FOUNDATION POKER RUN VFW Post #9010, 4675 Hampton Rd., Clemmons, NC. Reg 9am, KSU 10:30am, $20/bike, $5/rider. Breakfast avail., free food after ride, 50/50, door prizes, best & worst hand prizes, youngest & oldest biker prizes. Spons by: Triad Enforcers MC. Pete Knight, 336-428-1294, Jimmy White Jr, 336-749-5176
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AUG 2 HICKORY MUSEUM OF ART & TWISTED COVENANT MSC’S 3RD ANNUAL POKER RUN History Museum of Art, 243 3rd Ave, NE, Hickory, NC. Reg 10am, first bike out 11am, $20/per hand. Bike show, food truck, exhibits, 50/50, prizes for best & worst hand. Bulldog, 828-850-3275
AUG 2 MAD MONKEY SIGNING DAY Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson, 1126 S. Saunders St., Raleigh, NC. Meet & Greet with Max Flinders, race bike showcase, autographs, free food. www.tobaccoroadhd.com, 919-832-2261
AUG 3 SPIRIT RIDERS 12TH ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL RIDE C&P Mini Mart, 700 Union Chapel Rd., Pembroke, NC. Reg 1pm, KSU 2:30pm, $10/single, $15/couples, rain or shine. Auction, door prizes, 50/50. Benefits the children of Piney Grove Elementary. Robbie Locklear, 910-303-6724, Phyllis Smith, 910740-4228
AUG 7 BLUE COLLAR CYCLE CO BIKE NIGHT 1814 US Hwy 70 SW, Hickory, NC. 6-9pm, live music, food & drinks avail., vendors. www.bluecollarcycle.com, 828-228-0189
AUG 7 BULLDOG HARLEY-DAVIDSON BIKE NIGHT 1043 Outlet Center Dr., Smithfield, NC 5-8pm, food truck, vendors, free beer* with BullDog Babes. 919-938-1592, www.bulldogharleydavidson.com
AUG 8 SMOKIN’ HARLEY-DAVIDSON BIKE NIGHT 3441 Myer Lee Dr., Winston-Salem, NC. 6-9pm, www.smokinharley.com, 336-7223106
AUG 9 CVMA NC 15-12 TRIAD CH ACES HIGH RIDE Down Home Harley-Davidson, 2215 Hanford Rd., Burlington, NC. Reg 9am, auction 10:30am, KSU 12pm, $20/bike, $10/ passenger. Escorted ride, 50/50, auction, food trucks, vendors, raffle prizes. 336-227-1261
AUG 9 BROTHERS OF THE HORIZON MC 45TH ANNUAL MOTORCYCLE RALLY 132 Atlantic Rd., Robbins, NC. Gates open 1pm, $10/admission. Food & drinks avail., bike games, burn out pit, bike & car show, non-bike games. Hambone, 336-465-1718 or Sunset, 704-517-0970
AUG 9 SEVEN SABRES BROTHERHOOD KICK CANCER & EVERYTHING ELSE CHARITY RIDE 55 N. Broad St., W. Angier, NC. $15/donation. Arlene Mabry, 919-4227234
AUG 9 AMERICAN LEGION POST 265 5TH ANNUAL POKER RUN 146 Broadhurst Rd., Jacksonville, NC. Reg 10am, $15/hand, $20/3 hands same rider & shirt while supplies last. Best & worst hand cash prizes, raffles, 50/50, auction, music, free food for each rider. Benefits Veteran Programs. Alrncchapter265@ gmail.com
AUG 14 BLUE COLLAR CYCLE CO BIKE NIGHT 1017 Old W. Innes St., Salisbury, NC. 6-9pm, live music, food & drinks avail., vendors, best bike comp. www.bluecollarcycle. com, 980-621-7399
AUG 14 DOG HOUSE HARLEY-DAVIDSON BIKE NIGHT 1178 Galleria Blvd, Rock Hill, SC. 5-8pm, live music, food truck, free beer* with The Dog House Divas, $500 gift card giveaway entry. 803-327-1183, www.doghousehd.com
AUG 16 KING OF THE BAGGERS WATCH PARTY Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson, 1126 S. Saunders St., Raleigh, NC. Free food & beer*. www.tobaccoroadhd.com, 919-8322261
AUG 24 BIKE DAYS Tilley Harley-Davidson, 1226 Morland Dr., Statesville, NC. 1-4pm, live music, bike games, BBQ, giveaways, food, prizes. www.tilleyhd.com, 704-872-3883
AUG 28 OTR THROTTLE THURSDAYS Main St, Mooresville, NC. 5-9pm, live music, food trucks, vendors, bike games. www.tilleyhd. com, 704-872-3883
SEP 4-7 SMOKE OUT 25 Rowan Co. Fairgrounds, 1560 Julian Rd., Salisbury, NC. Live music, wet t-shirt contest, bike shows, mini bike racing, world’s strongest biker, burnout contest, vendors, food, camping. www.smokeoutrally.com
SEP 5 UPTOWN LEXINGTON BIKE NIGHT
Bull City Ciderworks, 599 S Railroad St., Lexington, NC. 5:30-9pm, music, food trucks, vendors, best bike on the lot, best burnout, cash prizes. Jack Waters, jackw@bullcityciderworks.com, 336-425-5959
SEP 11 BLUE COLLAR CYCLE CO BIKE NIGHT 1814 US Hwy 70 SW, Hickory, NC. 6-9pm, live music, food & drinks avail., vendors. www.bluecollarcycle.com, 828-228-0189
SEP 11 BULLDOG HARLEY-DAVIDSON
BIKE NIGHT 1043 Outlet Center Dr., Smithfield, NC 5-8pm, food truck, vendors, free beer* with BullDog Babes. 919-938-1592, www.bulldogharleydavidson.com
SEP 11 DOG HOUSE HARLEY-DAVIDSON
BIKE NIGHT 1178 Galleria Blvd, Rock Hill, SC. 5-8pm, live music, food truck, free beer* with The Dog House Divas, $500 gift card giveaway entry. 803-327-1183, www.doghousehd.com
SEP 12 SMOKIN’ HARLEY-DAVIDSON BIKE NIGHT 3441 Myer Lee Dr., Winston-Salem, NC. 6-9pm, www.smokinharley.com, 336-7223106
SEP 13 STEEL RAIN MC MORROW MOUNTAIN ROAD TRIP & LUNCH RIDE QuikTrip, 1862 Warren C Coleman Blvd., Concord, NC. KSU 10am, $20 donation, includes shirt while supplies last. Rain date: 09/20/25. Benefits SRMC Veteran’s Christmas Fund. 704-7857605, info@steelrainmc.com
SEP 13 5TH ANNUAL LOW COUNTRY 9/11 MEMORIAL MOTORCYCLE RIDE Low Country H-D, 4707 Dorchester Rd., North Charleston, SC. Staging 9am, KSU 22am, free police escorted ride. Attach an American flag to your ride. Music, speakers, vendors, free breakfast & lunch, commemorative merch available. FMI, text 843-252-0255.
SEP 18 BLUE COLLAR CYCLE CO BIKE NIGHT 1017 Old W. Innes St., Salisbury, NC. 6-9pm, live music, food & drinks avail., vendors, best bike comp. www.bluecollarcycle. com, 980-621-7399
SEP 25 OTR THROTTLE THURSDAYS Main St, Mooresville, NC. 5-9pm, live music, food trucks, vendors, bike games. www.tilleyhd. com, 704-872-3883
SEP 27 CVMA CH 15-2 USUAL SUSPECTS
VETERANS RIDE POKER RUN Speedway Harley-Davidson, 10049 Weddington Rd., Concord, NC. Sign in 10am, first bike out 11am, $25/poker card. Prize for winner, 50/50, tavern games, corn hole, music, food. Jenn, 704-223-6171
SEP 28 BIKE DAYS Tilley Harley-Davidson, 1226 Morland Dr., Statesville, NC. 1-4pm, live music, bike games, BBQ, giveaways, food, prizes. www.tilleyhd.com, 704-872-3883
OCT 5 NAM KNIGHTS MC BENEFIT RIDE
Jamin Leather, 1222 Port DR., Myrtle Beach, SC. Reg 10am, $20/bike, $10/passenger. Winnings, drawings, raffles & live auction. Benefits P.G.A. Hope, Veterans with disabilities.
OCT 9 DOG HOUSE HARLEY-DAVIDSON
BIKE NIGHT 1178 Galleria Blvd, Rock Hill, SC. 5-8pm, live music, food truck, free beer* with The Dog House Divas, $500 gift card giveaway entry winner revealed. 803-3271183, www.doghousehd.com
OCT 10 UPTOWN LEXINGTON BIKE NIGHT
Bull City Ciderworks, 599 S Railroad St., Lexington, NC. 5:30-9pm, music, food trucks, vendors, best bike on the lot, best burnout, cash prizes. Jack Waters, jackw@bullcityciderworks.com, 336-425-5959
OCT 10-11 16TH ANNUAL AMCA SOUTHERN NATIONAL MEET & CAMPOUT Denton Farm Park, 1072 Cranford Rd., Denton, NC. $12/ adult, $6/ages 5-11, kids 4 & under free. Swap meet, antique bike show with cash prizes, vendors, food, guided rides & more. Mike Bruso, 864-804-9509
OCT 10-11 THE ALL HARLEY WORLD SHOOTOUT Farmington Dragway, 2992 NC801, Mocksville, NC. FMI, Paulshdfatboy@ netscape.net
OCT 11 BLUE COLLAR CYCLE CO 6TH
ANNIVERSARY PARTY 1017 Old W. Innes St., Salisbury, NC. 12-6pm, live music, food & drinks avail. www.bluecollarcycle.com, 980621-7399
OCT 25 TOUR-PAK OR TREAT Two locations, Blue Collar Cycle Company, 1017 Old w. Innes St., Salisbury, NC. & Hickory location at 1814 US Hwy 70 SW, Hickory, NC. Contest & prizes. www.bluecollarcycle.com, 980-6217399, 828-228-0189
OCT 30 OTR THROTTLE THURSDAYS Main St, Mooresville, NC. 5-9pm, live music, food trucks, vendors, bike games. www.tilleyhd. com, 704-872-3883
NOV 8 3RD ANNUAL VETERANS DAY OF HONOR & WHOLE HOG COOK-OFF Freedom Biker Church, 669 Tarheel Rd., Benson, NC. 9am-3pm, Christy@freedombikerchurch. com, 919-868-3697
NOV 15 TITS & TACOS Blue Collar Cycle Company, 1017 Old W. Innes St., Salisbury, NC. 12pm, live music, food & beverages avail. Benefits Breast Cancer Awareness Fund. www.bluecollarcycle.com, 980-621-7399
DEC 13 BUB’S RIDE OPERATION TOY SOLDIER Blue Collar Cycle Company, 1017 Old W. Innes St., Salisbury, NC. Live music, food & drinks avail., Benefits the children of Iredell & Rowan Co. www.bluecollarcycle.com, 980-621-7399.
Burnout Bruce Is King of Cash Days 3
Story and PhotoS by alan dockery
e are blessed wIth some great old country racetracks round here. Also, some of the best racers, builders and teams. Once a year, at the end of April they all come together for the best Harley Drag Race of the season. Lots of serious racers wanting to compete against the best on the strip for a big purse, $25,000. Winners take all at Cash Days 3 at Shadyside Dragway near Shelby, NC.
It wasn’t all about the money. Mike Beland owns A1 Cycles, Maiden, NC, and has a great reputation among the racers and everyone involved in Harley drag racing. He built or tuned or provided parts for some of the machines there. If you are a fan of Big Motor Bagger Drags, you remember Mike racing Meth Beth a few years ago. He busted records quicker than I could write the stories.
Wow did they show up for Mike’s Race. There were 234 entries. Good fields in all the classes. Most Pro Baggers you will see at a race. Big purse plus wads of cash for, longest distance, best reaction time, low ET, high Mile an Hour means the staging lanes were packed with folks ready to race.
I was glad to see a bunch of my buddies who are drag racing fans ride into Shadyside for the day. The new stands are nice and that old country drag strip is a great place for folks to enjoy a race.
Fans got lots more racing than they might be used to at some events. During eliminations, folks were allowed more test and tune and to run grudge matches. Racers who had been
eliminated could line up to make more passes. Square off against your buddy for fun or cash.
Shops that think they are building quick bikes are welcome to bring them to the strip. Run your motor, not your mouth. Grudge race all afternoon.
Mike has a great crew working Cash Days. He was racing his bike and helping tune others all day. “I greatly appreciate everyone who came and supported the event. We are already planning Cash Days 4. It will be the last weekend of April. Don’t plan anything for that weekend because all the best racers will be at Cash Days,” Mike said.
WINNERS
On to the racin’.
Bruce Emanuel, Lumberton, NC, was The King of Cash Days 3. He swept all three of the Bagger Classes. Yes, Bruce rode three different bikes and won each class. That’s a combination of well-built machines and a man who can race them. Bruce was champ in Pro Bagger, Street Bagger and True Street Bagger. Besides taking almost half of the purse money, he got $500 for Low ET of the weekend, a freakin 5.11. Us at the starting line cheered when those numbers came up on the board.
Bruce rides Scott William’s shiny blue chrome bike in Pro Bagger. That turbo boosted machine is a fan favorite. Bruce beat Brook McCabe, Roanoke Rapids, NC, in the final round.
In Street Bagger, he beat Charlie Ange chasing him down
and riding around him in the last hundred feet.
Bruce enjoyed riding the Moonshine Machine in True Street Bagger. He rode that bike hard controlling wheelies down the strip. That class is real street bikes with stock wheelbase, hand clutch and foot shift. The bike Bruce took to the Winners Circle was built by Jamie Lima at Moonshine Harley and Horsepower in Tennessee. It got him the win over Jorge Lopez from Miami’s All American Cycle team.
Jason Crisp, Fort Valley, VA, won the Non-Bagger class. He had to beat local favorite Andrew Hefner, Conover, NC, who was last year’s class winner.
Boosted Brad from Death Metal Racing sponsored the Hot Street Class, then raced in it and won back his own money. He faced off against his son, Harrison, and barely beat him at the stripe by .020 of a second. Those guys from Tennessee are serious about supporting Cash Days and racing hard.
More than 60 bikes lined up for the first round of the Dial In ET Class. This is the class where you can run your street bike and import bikes are allowed. You better be good on the tree, know your bike and make consistent passes. To win, you gotta go rounds. Go rounds against some good ET racers.
The ET final came down to a couple of local boys on stretched out drag bikes that were very different. A Suzuki Hyabusa and Honda Grom. Kaidyn Pasour wound that Grom up, left the line just a tick too soon and got the red light handing Chris Edwards the win. Friday Night’s Gamblers Race was won by Byron Cass on a Suzuki GSXR 1000. He was in the Winner’s Circle last year and will be back for Cash Days 4.
Other awards included Brad Bodigon for Best Appearing
Bike. Racers came from Florida to Maine and the Midwest. The Long Distance Award went to Raymond Agent. He came up from way down in the bottom of Louisiana. Came up by himself, camped out and raced.
“I thank the racers who made the trip from all across the country to Shadyside for Cash Days. Every year the forecast is for rain, and we get sunshine and a great track to race on,” Mike said.
“We had some new teams such as All American Cycles coming from Miami with four or five bikes and ready to race. The street guys are figuring out that the street ain’t the place to race. Come to the track where there is good lighting, a light to leave on and a time slip. No more arguing who won.”
Mike said he’s just a racer and thanked the folks who made a great day happen. “Thanks to Brenda and Alicia for running the lanes and Tim Houghland as race master on the microphone. Laurie Laine for hawking the merchandise. And Eddie and Wendy. The track folks Seth and Bryson gave us a great place to race. And thanks to Jeremy Justice for the locked in flyers.”
“Everybody worked together, and it was a great event. Thank you all again from the bottom of my heart for making our race the best of the year. I can’t thank my marketing partners enough. The list is long of supporters and sponsors that make Cash Days such a big success,” Mike said. With his reputation in the sport, Mike lined up some good
sponsors. A big thank you to these folks too. S&S Cycle, Star Racing, Death Metal Racing, Maxx ECU, GRC, Snipes Machine, All Harley World Shootout, Super Duper Motorcycles, Fuel Moto, Cal Tire, Murray Performance, All American Cycle, G Force Racing, GRC, T-Man Performance and Jet Hot Coatings.
If you want to keep up with the Bagger Racing news, gossip and Top Ten List, check out Southern Harley Grudge Racing on Facebook.
Cash Days 4 is already locked in for April 23 -24, 2026. You should be there for a great time at a cool old country drag strip that also happens to be the biggest and best race of the year. Next year there will be more group rides from across the Carolinas to Shadyside. I recently found a cool country road route for my buddy Tim and the folks who ride in with him.
I’ll see y’all at the strip.
Outer Banks Bike Week Delivers The Goods Beach, Bikes, Booty & Babes
by: lincoln infield
he outer banks of north carolIna got a full dose good bike riding weather for the 23rd Annual Outer Banks Bike Week. Year in and year out we have a party on the OBX no matter what the weather is (except that hurricane year). But holy hell, we got 75 and sunny all week long and bikers from all over took notice.
Outer Banks Bike Week kicked off on Saturday, April 19th with a full schedule of events at Outer Banks Harley-Davidson in Harbinger, NC. The CVMA packed the lot for the Queen Anne’s Revenge Light House Run and put on 110 miles checking out three of the OBX light houses. The day ended with the official Bike Week Kick Off Pig Pickin’ Party and the sun went down on live music and cold drinks! The week went on with killer weather mixed in with OBX HOG rides, live music, vendors, bikini bike washes and more. It was a seriously packed schedule of events going on at OBX H-D.
Attendance swelled again mid-week and with the warm weather holding steady, I knew we were in for some good riding in the salty beach air. The dealership remains the epicenter of the event with daily rides, raffles, vendors and all that, but the rally stretches down the coast. Just hop on the beach road and cruise beside the ocean dunes. There are endless beach bars, pubs, eateries and all of them had a couple bikes in the parking lot. Take your pick, dive in and have a cold drink. Friday morning is kicked off by the $1000 poker run hosted by Garage Band Charities inc. Those who stayed behind rocked out at the dealership or had bikini beauties suds up their bikes. Friday is also the annual Law Tigers / Full Throttle Magazine
H2H ride. It was a gorgeous day to ride, and our group grows every year. We headed out of Harbinger at 11am heading for Hatteras to snag a bite and then get back home. There were tons of bikes out on the island, and we could have ridden all day. But we had to get back to Kitty Hawk for the Left Lane Syndicate’s East Coast Booty Run Pre-Party.
The Left Lane Syndicate hosted their second annual East Coast Booty Run during bike week. Last year the Booty Run, that’s all about spitting out miles, rode down to Ocracoke, took the ferry over to the mainland and rode into Jacksonville, NC. This year’s run stayed on the banks but attracted riders from all up and down the east coast. The ECBR pre-party packed the Jolly Roger with performance bagger bros and good times. We cashed out when the band came on and opted to hang out on the porch and take in a gorgeous OBX night.
The last Saturday of Outer Banks Bike Rally brings everyone back to Outer Banks Harley-Davidson. The lot fills up early, but like the ocean, the crowd is in and out all day long. A ton of bikers roll through to take in the last big day of festivities. The live music stage hosted Dave Bray USA who pumped out some patriotic rock and roll tunes including their version of the National Anthem. They paid tribute to the military and made sure to highlight their love of the country
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all day. Riders responded by parking up near the stage and revving their engines. The band gave way to the International Bikini Team Ms. OBX contest. All eyes were on the stage as 10 beauties strutted their stuff across the stage. They start off in biker wear and end up in bikinis. Everyone has their favorites, and the crowd is the real winner. This year’s contest was won by Liv with runners up Meme and Michelle. The ladies stuck around and posed for photos with their admirers, but the day was far from over!
The Carolinas’ Full Throttle Magazine OBX Bike Week Bike Show was going on all day, and we had a stack up of awesome bikes. It’s a free registration show and every year the show gets bigger and better. We partner with Outer Banks Harley-Davidson to put on this show and always get support from our friends at Law Tigers. Once the bikini contest was over, we had to finish up judging and with the awards ceremony looming. There were a couple dark clouds in the sky, so we made the call to do the awards a couple minutes early. This year’s bike show class winners all snagged $50 and plaque. We also hand out a Law Tigers Choice Award and a Full Throttle Choice Award that take home $100 and a plaque. Not so bad for a free registration show!
This year’s winners were:
Vintage Class: Duane Vass – 1930 HD VC
Touring Class: Michael Turner – 2013 HD Street Glide
Radical Bagger Class: Joe Parnell – 2012 H-D Road Glide
Cruiser Class: Eric Mifflin – 2018 Heritage Springer Classic
Custom Non-Bagger Class: Gary Harvey - 2000 H-D Springer Heritage
Once the awards are handed out the crowd thins out for a bit. It’s a hot day and we all get back in the wind for a bit, find
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a place to grab some drinks and then it was time for Midget Wrestling! That’s right, this year’s extra feature at Outer Banks Harley-Davidson was Midgets With Attitude. Lemme tell you, they lived up to the name. They put on a show Friday and Saturday night and Saturday night the show was wild. These dudes were going at it, whacking each other with metal trash cans, flying off the top ropes and dropping the “Peoples Elbow”. They had the crowd going and capped off this year’s rally.
Huge thanks to Outer Banks owner Maurice Slaughter for hosting another great rally and to event coordinator Sherry Burgess for putting on the event. The whole team at OBX H-D, Nags Head H-D and First Flight H-D pitch in to make sure that everyone who stops by has a great time. I gotta throw a shout out to my dude Jerry at Law Tigers for all his support too. We will be back at it in the fall for Outer Banks Bikefest. The weather is still going strong, and the coastal riding is worth the trip. Come see us September to continue the tradition! As soon as plans are made, you will see them in the Cruisin’ Calendar!
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Axemen MC South Carolina Chapter 1 Charity Ride
by: cruiSin Gal (a.k.a. Pam lory)
n saturday, may 3rd the day wasn’t Just about the horses in the Kentucky Derby. That day a charity ride was held by the Axemen MC, South Carolina Chapter 1. This event is held every year by the members of the MC and each year it just gets better and better. The event began at the Beaver Bar in Murrells Inlet, and all who registered received a T-shirt and some Krispy Kreme donuts which we all know are the BOMB.
This was very similar to a Poker Run except we didn’t draw cards. Due to the state cracking down on “gambling”, we each pulled a chip from a bag that had numbers on it. Whoever got the highest total number, and the lowest total number were the winners. The stops for the ride included Twin Peaks (Myrtle Beach), the Village Bar & Grill (Myrtle Beach) and 17 Highway Roadhouse (Myrtle Beach). Each bar was ready and waiting for the crowd and handled it perfectly thanks to awesome bartenders!!
Once everyone pulled all their chips, the after Party was held at the Beaver Bar. There was an amazing Taco Bar set up for everyone and of course cold beverages. Then many prizes were given away and the winners of the Silent Auction were announced. Let me tell you, the Axemen members really out did themselves with the prizes this year. Lots of great gift cards and packages!! Silent Auction baskets were also fantastic. Most of them held more than $200 worth of goodies.
Now back to the HORSES…and you thought I forgot that this day was not only about Kentucky Derby horses!! The proceeds from this event will be given to the Barnabas Horse Foundation. This foundation was started in 2011 by Sue Mckinney. After going through a trial that no family should have to go through, Sue realized that God placed a vision on her heart that she could not ignore. She saw the healing that came to a loved one from being around the family’s horses. What happened next was Sue starting the Barnabas Foundation. The horses provide Equine Therapy for veterans, women and children in distress and a lot more. “Out of one family’s tragedy and heartbreak, came a foundation that shares love, hope and healing through fellowship with horses for those who have walked a similar path” (quote Barnabas Horse Foundation).
If you missed this year’s event, no worries. Continue watching The Carolinas’ Full Throttle Magazine event calendar for the next one and other events happening in your area. Until then, keep your face in the wind and as always, RIDE SAFE!!
Ride To Clear
by: tim PrieSt
ave you ever found yourself surrounded by traffic and skyscrapers in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the “Big City”? That’s exactly where I found myself on May 6th with a group of friends from the Team Wheelhouse Foundation but we were on our motorcycles, so it was pretty dang sweet!
We gathered at the Wheelhouse Media offices just a few miles away from our destination and had an amazing short ride thru the Uptown Area of Charlotte, North Carolina. As heads turned and camera phones activated by the rumble of exhaust shook nearby latte’s… it was apparent that we had arrived at the Bank of America corporate office complex for the official start of the Mental Health Awareness campaign.
As the scene unfolded, I began to mingle with some of the other riders and onlookers. I met people from all walks of life from professional motorcycle builders to public personalities to corporate employees, and we were all able to agree on one thing that mental health affects us all in some form or fashion.
The Ride to Clear campaign is centered around a community custom motorcycle build that will encompass many stories and many people. The build is a unique platform that will be used to raise awareness for how mental health affects us. We are quickly learning that it’s way bigger than the motorcycle build /project! We have already heard stories and already this project and the people involved have touched each other’s lives in some pretty amazing ways! We are being reminded that no matter who you are or where you come from, you’re probably right in the middle of something. Big applause to the amazing people that made this ride/event happen!
Carolinas’ Full Throttle Magazine will continue to follow this bike build and this Ride To Clear initiative as it unfolds in the coming months! Listen, life is precious, so I just want to remind you to take the time to reach out to somebody and just check on them today. You never know what that simple call could mean to them. Mental Health affects us all.
Ride Safe ~ Ride To Clear!
Kids Path Bike Show At Cadillac Ranch
by: Jerry andrewS
hat’s better than cars, bIkes, and rock and roll bands? Some of you knuckleheads will say BEER, but of course it was flowing throughout the day. This was a great event, and it helped to support an even greater cause than helping gearheads find nirvana!
While it’s painful to say “hospice and children” in the same sentence, the reality is there are circumstances that shorten the lives of young people. Kids Path was established in 2003 to address a difficult situation such as this. Sam’s Wish Fund was named for Samantha “Sam” Harvell, a Kids Path patient. Harvell died Nov. 15, 2008, at the age of 15. While Sam may be gone, her legacy remains alive, and well today; here we are in 2025 sharing her story and helping families in similar circumstances. This event raises funds for Sam’s Wish Fund. Sam’s wish Fund was started by Doug Shambley. Sam’s Wish Fund is part of Kids Path under AuthoraCare Collective. There’s an exception to every rule; most of us walk around without a serious care in the world, and some are stricken with life altering health concerns. Tragically, even those can limit the lives of children. When the “Big C” (or any host of scary conditions) pops up in a family, one hopes the family will rally together around that family. This was the case at this event; “Sam” inspired her extended family to form this organization. And while this may seem as a downer article, this event was far from it! However, we must face the realities that families face unimaginable challenges. The biker community always rallies around so many causes, and children always tug at our heart strings.
Sunday, April 27, the 13th annual King of The Ranch - Cars, Bikes, and Bands – took place against the backdrop of the beautiful Cadillac Ranch in Elon, NC. Arriving at the event, the sounds of thundering engines were prevalent, and folks gathered around bikes, cars, and trucks to celebrate the King of the Ranch. The show took off to the joy of many in attendance.
Among the sound of revving engines and cheerful chatter, funds were raised for Sam’s Wish Fund, making the day not just a showcase of cars, bikes and bands, but an event to provide for kids in need. During the Christmas season, there are a plethora of rides to provide toys for kids, but some families are facing life-threatening challenges throughout the year. Those concerns don’t end when the weather warms up; it’s an ongoing need.
As usual, the event had numerous bands playing smooth jazz, rebellious hard nosed southern rock. and plain old everyday rock and roll. The crowd sat in a beautiful “pasture” enjoying the tunes as judging took place for the car and bike show. Patrons young and old, male and female, admired the art on wheels.
One thing that amazes me at events like these is the diver-
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sity; there were bikes and folks of seemingly all walks of life, enjoying a great vibe while they toured the acres of American horsepower. It’s hard to note all the names of folks you meet at shows, but it’s the kids, noted in several photos that make me smile. Our love of black and chrome is being passed along to our youngsters, and this event focused on them. Dads and granddads were showing the difference between one bike and another. The same was true for trucks of all Detroit makes and models. You could see the gleam in those kids’ eyes as “Gramps” shared his love of old cars, trucks, dogs and bikes with his grandchildren. It was heartwarming to see.
Walking through the property of “Cadillac Ranch” folks beamed with the pride of new parents as they introduced the visitors to their completed (to various degrees) vehicles. From big wheel baggers to English Nortons, it was a cornucopia of Chevelles, Mustangs, Ford and Chevy trucks- too much to take in just a few hours. The good Lord blessed us with beautiful weather, and the food trucks kept our bellies full with sweet and savory snacks; and of course, there was a beer cart providing the cool beverages to keep the warmth of the afternoon at bay.
The ringleader and central figure of this event is Walter “Bird Dog” Riddle and Allison Nichols, managed to raise over $36,000 to support children with life-limiting illnesses and loss.
The event was again graciously sponsored by an impressive lineup of 62 businesses and individuals showcasing their commitment to AuthoraCare’s mission to empower patients to be the authors of their care journeys.
Supporters and Vendors
Tricky Ricky’s Ride
Christian Bikers
81 - Durham
Highway 49 Motor and Auto Center
Sam’s Wish Fund
Hospice of Alamance County
Kid’s Path - Patti Gasperilla, Director
Ronnie Stallings - owner of the Cadillac Ranch
A special thanks from the author to Cindy Skinner, Authoracare, for her assistance with details.
1976 HARLEY-DAVIDSON SHOVELHEAD CHOPPER
BUILT BY: FOUNDATION MOTO
by:
Ptown lexIngton bIke nIght at bull cIty cIder Works kicked off their 2025 season on May 2nd. This bike night has been a powerhouse for the past few years providing a haven for biker activity on the first Friday of the month. Event promoter Jack Waters Jr. took on this ailing event a handful of years ago, moved it from Main Street Lexington to the Bull City Cider Works campus and the rest is history.
A dozen vendors line the Bull City Cider Works parking lot leaving the majority of the parking spaces open for the crowd that faithfully piles in around 6pm. This being a Friday night event really lets people let loose, it’s the weekend and everyone is ready to start it off right. It’s not long before the parking lot is full, the band is rocking, and the bar is packed! Marques Pucket & 8 Second Ride got the nod to rock the first Uptown bike night of the year, and they understood the mission. They brought a little country and a Little Rock n Roll, and the crowd ate it up. Bikes continue to roll in all night long to the point that the entire alley is filled. It’s a whole different event out there with folks gathered in groups hanging out and checking out the parade out there. Somehow, the crew from Riding High Harley-Davidson strolls through the throng of bikes and people and picks out a “Best Bike On The Lot” to award with a $100. No registration, no special parking, just show up with the best bike and you could pull down some cash from Riding High H-D, not bad, eh?
At one of the band breaks Jack took the mic to give some announcements and for a special guest, The Mayor Of Lexington. That’s right, the Mayor came out to read the proclamation naming May as Motorcycle Awareness Month. A roar of applause came from the crowd but was soon drowned out by the band taking back the stage. It wasn’t long before the main even of the night kicked off. The Rebel Spirit Burnout Contest travels all through the Carolinas and had a huge following
lincoln infield
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in Lexington. The burnout contest literally takes over the bike night every month. Bike after bike enters the patented Rebel Spirit mobile burnout pit and shreds some perfectly good tires. A crowd gathers around the pit and then disappears into the billowing clouds of tire smoke. The judging is intense, but there can be only one. This month Josh Grant took home top honors and a crispy $100 bill from this year’s burnout sponsor, Sneads Grading & Excavating.
Once the burnouts are over you can actually hear the band again. The crowd resumes the party while wandering around at the vendors. Make sure you stop in and see the gals at the Carolinas’ Biker Lawyers van. They have some good swag and will certainly pose for a picture with ya. Other vendors on hand were CVMA, CMA, CBA and other assorted biker type vendors. This was such a big bike night that although the cider didn’t run dry, Bull City sold out of beer near the end of the night. I guess you could say, everyone was ready for bike night to be back!
Uptown Lexington Bike Night at Bull City Cider Works is the first Friday of each month, through September. You do NOT want to miss out and as luck has it, you have two opportunities to party in June. June 6th Vintage 37 will be on the stage and June 27th there will be a DJ spinning biker music all night. The second June date is because the first Friday in July is Independence Day and there will not be a bike night that night. Bike night will be back on August 1st, September 5th and the finally will be on October 10. Come out and party with us, you won’t regret it.
3rd Annual Emerald Isle Poker Run
by: rob harPer
he thIrd annual emerald Isle Poker run took Place on Saturday May 3rd. The weather was perfect for the event. Registration started at 10:30 at Gaffer’s in Emerald Isle. Organizers had event shirts for sale and handed out a list with directions to each stop. Rather than one large group, the ride was staggered with smaller groups leaving at their leisure.
From Gaffer’s we crossed the bridge to Hwy 24 and proceeded to Timeout Tavern in Newport. I wasn’t hungry yet, but they have a pretty good variety of food. I did get a beverage, and the service was quick and friendly. I had two poker hands and pulled my cards. A 3 and a 5 set the tone for my poker day. Multiple bridges and a scenic 31-mile ride got us to the next stop, Fish Hook Grille on Harker’s Island. We rode past the stop to the end of the road to get a view of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse. Once back at Fish Hook, our group got catfish bites, scallops and wings. All were very good.
From Harker’s Island, we rode to Molly’s in Atlantic Beach. This place has a great ocean view and indoor/outdoor seating. Stop number four was at Homer’s Point in Salter Path. We grabbed a few beers and sat on the deck overlooking the sound.
The grand finale was at Emerald Club in Emerald Isle. When we arrived, The Lost Artist Band was rocking the crowd, and Glenn had the pig and fixins ready. I’m sure nobody went away hungry. The band wrapped up with a great rendition of “The Devil Went Down to Georgia”. When the results were tallied, Amanda Murphy walked away with the best hand and $400. Lonnie Reid got second and $100. Jacob Freeman won $409 from the 50/50 drawing and donated it back.
Thanks to the dedicated people that make the Emerald Isle Poker Run possible. Dell and Gay Miller, Joe and Melody Matthews, Ricky Hicks, Rick and Gail Exum, Steve and Lucinda Evans, Joe and Meg Matthews, Glenn Jones, Theresa Cochran and Sandra Watson. At the end of the day over 100 bikes registered and $2,000 was raised for the Emerald Isle For Veterans. The organization helps local veterans with specific needs.
Chop Suey Antique & Chopper Show In Murrells Inlet
by: lincoln infield
he carolInas’ full throttle magazIne bIke show Tour 2025 made a new stop in Murrells Inlet during the Spring Myrtle Beach Bike Rally. We’ve had a great run of successful shows at Bubba’s Bar and Grill in Myrtle Beach and when Bubba’s owner, Liz Schaffer took over Barnacle Bills Rum and Raw Bar in Murrells Inlet, we partnered for a second show, this one mid-week of the rally. Instead of putting on a second “all class” bike show we decided to pursue a chopper and antique motorcycle show, something we’ve been tossing around for a few years. So, the Chop Suey Bike Show was born, bringing Choppers and Antique Motorcycles back to Myrtle Beach.
This year’s rally was absolutely hoppin’. Rain showers early in the week did not keep a swarm of bikers from all over the east from descending on Grand Strand. The forecast Improved as the week went on and Wednesday, May 14th was slated for sun and 85 degrees with a slight chance of rain, but hey, that’s the beach for ya! Barnacle Bills is located on US-17 Business just down the street from Suck Bang Blow in the prime area of the Murrells Inlet rally so there was plenty of visual exposure, but would the choppers and antiques show up? We partnered with Law Tigers South Carolina for this show and Jay Wright was on hand along with our SC Coastal Full Throttle reps Pam and Ray Lory, we also called on our good friend and motorcycle aficionado Chuck Sloan to round out one hell of a bike show team. We were set up early and ready to go when the bikes started rolling in and 12 minutes after registration began, we already had a handful of bikes in the show. Now, I have to admit, when I say “Choppers” I’m thinking about old school choppers, metric or American from the 70’s or older. So,
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when a couple modern choppers rolled in, we had to adjust the classes a little bit, but that’s the way first time bike shows go!
As the day went on shovelheads, panheads, and evo’s rolled in and filled the bike show area, we even had a sweet K Model and some vintage metrics on the lot! It was a hell of a sight for a bagger dominant rally and these old school (and some new school) bikes stuck out like a diamond in a goat’s ass. By the time registration was over we had 30 bikes in the show and a lot of hard decisions to make. The trophies for the Chop Suey bike show were Vintage Chrome Toasters and they were so cool. Honestly, I created a new obsession when I started buying these old toasters, they are cool old pieces that looked great on their own, we made them even cooler by having Kristin Shipwash of The Rebel Spirit pinstripe them with the show name. Lemme tell ya, everyone wanted to win one of those toasters! After a ton of deliberation, the judges had a list of winners. This wasn’t easy y’all, there were a ton of great bikes there, all of them uniquely built and stylized by the owners.
The first class of Chop Suey winners went like this:
Best Chopper: Tim Morton – 1981 Shovel Head Chopper
Best Antique: Steve Koury – 1955 Harley-Davidson K Model
Best Bobber: Dude Taylor – 1977 Harley-Davidson Iron Head
Best Import: Kenneth Spivack – 1968 Honda CB350
Best Modern: Joyce Romba – 2001 Redneck Chopper
Longest Chopper: Monty King – 1972 Harley-Davidson Gold Chopper
Best Paint: Tim Johnson – 2019 Custom Bobber
Oldest: Aaron Potter – 1953 Harley-Davidson Pan Head Chopper
Law Tigers Choice: Brian Morgan – 1975 Harley-Davidson Shovel Head Chopper
Full Throttle Magazine Choice: Nick Jordan – 1973 HarleyDavidson FLH Bobber
We got done with the awards just as a dark cloud rolled over the Inlet. We hurried through photos of the winners and there was a lot of rushed kick-starting to try to get down the road
before the bottom fell out. Not everyone was that lucky, but the rain felt good on a hot day. You know what they say, It never rains inside the bar. You might as well not be in a hurry, go in and grab yourself a drink and wait it out! Besides, Barnacle Bills has a great menu, ice cold drinks and good looking bartenders!
The Chop Suey - Antique and Chopper Show was a big hit, and we will be doing it again. We are bringing back old school cool to what has become a bagger dominated rally. Huge thanks to everyone who rode out to this inaugural event and congrats to those who took home the coolest bike show awards at the rally! Remember….Ride Em, Don’t Hide Em…We will see you at the Fall Rally!
The Future
came across some PredIctIons from Industry leaders in the past that were both revealing and amusing to me. We have failed terribly throughout history to predict the future. Even those with inside knowledge and understanding of specific industries fail at predicting the future.
Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, said in 1943 that he did not foresee a world market for computers. In 1949 Popular Mechanics ran an article predicting that in the future computers would weigh over 1.5 tons. In 1977 Ken Olsen, president of Digital Equipment Corporation, declared there is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home. Bill Gates is reported to have stated in 1981, “640K memory ought to be enough for anybody.”
Today we celebrate two holidays in most of the free world. Christmas, the birth of Jesus and Easter, His resurrection from the grave. The accuracy of the predictions or prophecy contained in the bible is amazing. There were over 300 specific prophecies concerning the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Each one occurred exactly as predicted centuries before they occurred.
Bible critics have challenged the prophecy of Daniel and his interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar’s dreams. The claim is that the accuracy of his predictions is not possible,
and his writings occurred over 600 years later. The problem with their claim is the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar and the timeline of his kingdom and other events in Daniel are well documented in historical records. World history reinforces biblical accuracy every day.
The bible’s accuracy is scary for some yet a source of comfort to others while being totally ignored by too many. The bible contains 3 times as many prophecies concerning Jesus’ return than there were for his first coming.
Acts 1:11 who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”
Circumstances in our world today can be concerning and create uncertainty. Jesus foretold of world events and conditions just prior to end times in Matthew chapter 24 and 25. I encourage you to look at these for yourself. You can clearly see our world today in these chapters.
God is never caught off guard or surprised. The bibles prophecy of future events is the only source of truth we can completely trust to be 100% accurate.
Are you ready to meet Jesus? He is coming back, and each of us will meet him either as our savior or the one we rejected. If you have not yet accepted as your savior, please consider your decision today. There is an expiration date concerning your opportunity to make this most important decision. There are many motorcycle ministries, churches or Christians who would welcome the opportunity to help you know for sure you are ready to meet Jesus.
Blessings, Floyd
Bike Fest 2025 Locked & Loaded Style
by: len “3 wheel” montGomery
f you have been PayIng attentIon, you may have realized there have been some changes happening this year at Locked and Loaded Bar and Grill in Garner, NC. New owners, Joel Blanton and Barry Kirby, have done a great job thus far. One thing they felt that did not need to change was their annual Spring Bike Festival.
Bike Fest had been on hiatus since the beginning of Covid until last year. Manager Renee Jones brought it back in 2024, well, because it was missed, and it was needed. Last year’s event was packed, a testament to just how much local bikers love this place and the event.
This year’s event was no different. I met up with a few friends for breakfast/brunch then we rode in to find 50 bikes or so already had arrived. Riders kept pulling in at a regular pace for the next 90 minutes or more. As usual I arrived a little early to meet the band and vendors, do a little live promo, and get my drink on. It was very warm, so I had no trouble diving into the bottom of a tall glass of Crown Royal.
I met several vendors, some from last year and a few new ones. Lots of jewelry, patches, trinkets and so forth. Then I saw the table for the band right by the outdoor stage. I was expecting to meet the members of Flying High Again, an Ozzy Osborne/Black Sabbath tribute band. Instead, I was able to meet the opening act Sasquatch. Now I wasn’t expecting to meet these guys, but they rocked the stage and got the crowd going. I spoke with one of the members afterwards and I believe this was their first show... ever...and they did great!
When Sasquatch wrapped up their portion of the show, I met a few members of Flying High Again. They describe themselves on social media as a “High energy tribute to the Madman himself.” Colton, the singer, was super cool, as were the other members I interacted with (can’t remember all the names, sorry guys). I offered to assist with the vocals, but I am sure everyone was glad I was not needed. These guys did a fantastic job entertaining the crowd. They did all your favorites. And while no one could ever replace Ozzy Osborne or Randy Rhoads, they sure bring the vibe of some of the greats we know and remember. Look for future dates on their LOUD & LIVE IN ’25 TOUR.
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As the day wore on, the heat was starting to get to us brave souls who had chosen seats at a table NOT under an umbrella or under the huge, covered porch. That meant two things; One, I was melting from running around taking photos, and two, the ice was melting in my Crown Royal way too fast. Time to drink faster, I guess. At one point, as I was preparing to take a photo of a couple passing by, I felt a nice breeze. But then, the lady that I was photographing took off running. Odd I thought, until I noticed there was an umbrella from a table flying over my head. After trying to dodge it for a moment, I realized there were three or four umbrellas flying over my head and all I could think was, “I am not going out with an umbrella impaled in my chest.” But the excitement was over quickly with one umbrella landing on the owner’s pickup truck. No one was seriously injured and the party resumed.
As the day was approaching its end, I did something I had never done. I turned my camera over to Michelle Honeycutt to take a few snaps while I cooled off inside, grabbing a fresh glass of Crown Royal. Michelle takes some pretty good photos from the Princess seat of her husband’s bike. Occasionally she will post some “interesting” snapchat images of friends, LOL. But she did great, and I have a second camera anytime she wants to hone her skills.
I guess you can say this was a successful Bike Fest. Check out Locked and Loaded Bar and Grill if you haven’t already. You can find their calendar full of live events every month right here. Go follow their social media for their “Shot the Day.” And go hungry, because the food is outstanding!
Harley-Davidson Reveals New Limited-Production Fat Boy Gray Ghost Model
milwaukee (may 8, 2025)
arley-davIdson today Introduced the gleamIng Fat Boy® Gray Ghost model, the fifth installment in its Icons Motorcycle Collection. This new, limited-production Icons model celebrates the 35th anniversary of the introduction of the Fat Boy, a motorcycle that remains a cultural icon and one of the most recognizable bikes to ever roll down the road. The Fat Boy Gray Ghost model salutes a superstar of motorcycle design with a gleaming new Reflection finish that gives the entire motorcycle the appearance of being dipped in chrome.
The Icons Motorcycle Collection features a limited release of a new motorcycle model that offers a fresh interpretation of an iconic Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. Icons Motorcycle Collection models are serialized and may include additional features above the base motorcycle. Production of the Fat Boy Gray Ghost model will be limited to 1,990 total motorcycles globally, (paying homage to the original 1990 Fat Boy) with an MSRP of $25,399* (U.S. pricing).
The Fat Boy Gray Ghost model celebrates the enduring significance of the original “fat custom” motorcycle.
“The original Fat Boy model took the look, proportions, and silhouette of a 1949 Hydra-Glide and completely modernized it for a new generation of riders,” explains Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Vice President of Design and Creative Director, Motorcycles. “Those riders appreciated our post-war design DNA but also found themselves drawn to the clean simplicity of contemporary industrial design.”
At its inception, the bike was intended to have a limited lifespan. Instead, the Fat Boy motorcycle has spanned three powertrain generations and a complete redesign of its Softail® chassis and for 35 years has maintained its original power to
impress with unmatched presence and undeniable style.
Stunning Reflection Finish
The Fat Boy is a big, bold motorcycle designed for riders who want to make a statement. That statement is amplified by an Icons Collection Fat Boy Gray Ghost model that will shimmer in sunlight like it was machined from a solid alloy billet and polished to a mirror finish. The Reflection finish is created using the physical vapor deposition (PVD) process, also known as thin film coating, in which a solid material is vaporized in a vacuum and deposited onto the surface of a part, in this case the fuel tank and motorcycle fenders. This is accomplished by applying a positive charge to the solid material (an aluminum alloy) and a negative charge to the motorcycle part. Following the deposition process, the part is painted with a standard clear coat finish.
PVD has been used in the past by Harley-Davidson to finish some small parts such as tank medallions and exhaust shields. Its use on the Fat Boy Gray Ghost model fenders and fuel tank is the first time PVD has been used on parts this large for a production Harley-Davidson® model. The precision of this coating results in a stunning finish that is chrome-like in appearance but is more comprehensive than chrome plating and thus will meet Harley-Davidson standards for corrosion resistance that are not possible with chroming on these parts.
Chrome side covers complete the bike’s overall bright finish, complemented by a frame finished in bright silver powder coat. Styling cues inspired by the original Fat Boy model include a round air cleaner, yellow accents on the lower rocker covers, powertrain covers, and tank console insert. Additional details—such as a leather seat valance with lacing and tassels, and a black leather tank strap with laced edging—add to the
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nostalgic aesthetic. Three-dimensional fuel tank medallions replicate the iconic winged graphic from the original Fat Boy. A commemorative tank console insert is etched with the bike’s unique serialization number, while the Icons Collection medallion is positioned on the rear fender.
Lakester cast aluminum wheels, exclusive to the Fat Boy model, emphasize a bold stance. High-performance Michelin® Scorcher® 11 tires (Front 160/60R18, Rear 240/40R18) enhance the ride.
Elevated Performance and Technology
The Fat Boy Gray Ghost model shares the elevated performance and technical features introduced with the 2025 Fat Boy motorcycle.
• NEW Milwaukee-Eight® 117 Custom powertrain is tuned to deliver 101 horsepower (75 kW) and 122 lb. ft. (171 Nm) peak torque, a power increase – 7 percent more horsepower and 3 percent more torque – over the 2024 Fat Boy 114 model.
• This engine is equipped with a 2-into-2 exhaust with individual catalysts. Mufflers feature advanced lightweight material that works to trim high frequencies and emphasize low frequencies for a powerful sound.
• Four-valve cylinder heads feature revised combustion chamber shape, oval intake ports and low-profile intake valve seats designed to improve performance and fuel economy.
• Engine oil is routed from a frame-mounted oil cooler through cylinder head cooling passages. This cylinder head cooling system further optimizes thermal comfort for the rider, especially in low-speed riding situations and hot weather.
• NEW Suspension is recalibrated to optimize rider comfort.
• Dual-bending valve 49 mm forks keep front wheel in contact with the road surface a comfortable ride.
• Under-seat hydraulic pre-load adjustment allows the rider to maintain optimal rear suspension performance for the prevailing load and road conditions.
• NEW Selectable Ride Modes (Road, Rain and Sport) electronically control the performance characteristics of the motorcycle and the level of technology intervention.
• NEW Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson is a collection of technologies designed to enhance rider confidence during unexpected situations or adverse road conditions.
• Straight Line/Cornering Antilock Braking System
• Straight Line/Cornering Traction Control System
• Straight Line/Cornering Drag Torque Slip Control
• Tire Pressure Monitoring
• NEW All-LED Lighting – including headlamp, tail and brake lights and signals – enhance conspicuity.
• NEW USB-C Power Port offers faster data transfer than the previous USB-A port, reversible plug orientation, and compatibility with newer devices. The port location is at the front-left side of the motorcycle beneath the fuel tank.
• NEW Heated Gear Connectors have been relocated from behind a side panel to the top of the rear fender below the seat where they are much easier to access.
• NEW 5-Inch Console-Mounted instrument places an analog speedometer above a multi-function LCD digital display. The rider can use the Trip hand control button to scroll through available information in the LCD display
History of an Instant Icon
In 1990, a time when the motorcycle media and much of the riding public was consumed with the escalating performance of sport bikes, the Harley-Davidson® Fat Boy model landed like a thundering heavy-metal power chord.
The Fat Boy model was inspired by a custom Harley® motorcycle based on the Softail® platform created in 1987 at Harley-Davidson Montréal by the dealership general manager Duc Dufour and technician Denis Lavoie, which they called a Lowboy. That bike featured slammed rear suspension, an aluminum disc wheel and fiberglass fender on the front and a wide handlebar. Spotted by Harley-Davidson Executive Jerry Wilke, an example was shipped to Milwaukee. While the Lowboy custom offered some inspiration, the motorcycle that would become the Fat Boy model was created by the H-D styling team led by Willie G. Davidson and Louie Netz.
“On the 1990 Fat Boy model, the wheels are the defining characteristic,” wrote Davidson in his book 100 Years of Harley-Davidson. “The idea was to create a distinctive look using solid-cast disc wheels. We pushed this distinction further with a silver monochromatic paint job and silver powder-coated frame. Since the entire bike was silver, we needed something bright to set it off. I added yellow trim to the rocker boxes, the derby cover, the timer cover, and the ignition switch. We built a Fat Boy prototype, and I took it to Daytona so we would get one-on-one feedback from the riders.”
Only Harley-Davidson would have the chutzpah to name a motorcycle Fat Boy.
“You’re probably wondering how we came up with a name like Fat Boy, and I’ve heard a lot of tales about this, nearly all of which are untrue,” wrote Davidson. “Here’s the real story: it’s tough to come up with names that will be popular on the street. We were looking for something unusual and maybe even a little irreverent, because there’s something sort of cool about poking fun at your products from time to time. To me, and to a lot of other insiders who’d seen it, the bike had a massive ‘fat’ look. So, the folks in marketing came up with the
Taylor Backman’s 2011 Softail Deluxe
aylor is a registered Nurse at the Va medical ceNter takiNg care of our VeteraNs. iN his free time, he seeks out the sweepiNg curves of the NC mountains. “Any new mountain roads I can find, I’m there. Get my buddies together and go cruise around for the day.” Taylor has been riding for 11 years, if you don’t count his youth on a dirt bike. “I just fell in love with the sound of a Harley and decided to get my Harley license.” Taylor took the course at his hometown dealership, Cox’s Harley-Davidson in Asheboro, NC.
Taylor’s latest bike is this 2011 Harley-Davidson Softail Deluxe. This sharp cholo style bike features a beautiful tan and cream two tone paintjob that is accented with gold leaf inlay. “It’s one of my favorite features of the bike; it was all hand done”. Chrome may not get you home, but it sure does look good on this Deluxe. “I’m a huge chrome fan, so I definitely fell in love with all the chrome. I’m not sure where I can add any more, but I’m sure I’ll find something!” Some of the chrome that stands out to us was the old school tear drop toolbox and the matching streamline air cleaner and rear axle cover. The Deluxe also features uniquely shaped Anarchy rear saddle bag guard that draws your eyes to the rear of the bike. The wheels match the cream color of the paint job and are running 80
spoke wheels with gold spoke nipples to bring it all together. The rear wheel has a matching cream belt pulley. It also has some killer foot boards, heal to toe shifter and Harley Bar & Shield brake pedal. The extended rear fender, ape hangers and the upswept cocktail shaker exhaust round out this beautifully built cholo. What sets it over the top is the leather work. Beautiful brown leather tank bib runs down to a matching solo spring seat. The passenger seat area has a tooled leather piece adorned with a female skeleton and a rose, Day of the Dead style. It’s not all style though, the Twin Cam 88 has been built into a solid 114cu in easily capable of concurring those mountain roads that Taylor loves to ride.
Editor’s Note: I fell in love with this bike when I saw it too, but I knew I’d seen it before. It took me a minute, then it hit me. Johnny D’s Cycles out of Dallas, NC built this bike, and it took home some hardware from our 2023 Full Throttle Custom Bike Show. The Johnny D’s points cover was the clue I needed.
The Carolinas’ Full Throttle Magazine staff screens hundreds of jokes each month. We make no claim to being politically correct. Most PC jokes just aren’t funny. If you are offended by any of the jokes on this page, take heart in the fact that we go to great lengths to offend everyone equally. This is not a hate crime! At our house we call it “pickin” and it is symbolic of your acceptance in the group. We live in the United States Of The Offended, so get over it!!
A long time ago I worked for Hospice, and I always had scrubs on. One of my male patients lived way out north of town, the wife of my patient only wanted me and one other male nurse attending MR patient, she did not want the pretty young female nurses around her 80 year old husband. Anyway, my day off and I had to go to a meeting downtown with street clothes on. It’s a little after 5 PM and patient’s wife called the office saying she needs some medical supplies. I say, I will take them I have a brand new Kawasaki KLR 650 that I am breaking in still, I get the medical supplies and off I go. Pull up to the house go through the gate, knock on the door, No answer, Bang on the door, No answer, Check doorknob, Locked. I run to the side, check windows to see if I can see any bodies on the floor. No cell phone, jump on bike head to the nearest 7-11 store get change, call from the pay phone, “This is Mike your nurse”, Patient, “OH MIKE!! OH, MIKE come quick a motorcycle thug is trying to break into the house”. “Oh, that’s me! I came to deliver your medical supplies, and I am on my new motorcycle. Unlock the door I will be right over.” As I pull up at the house a 2nd time I am surrounded by four Sheriff cars and hand cuffed tossed in the back seat before my patient could come out and identify me. I told one of the young officers, I am a nurse, I am a nurse, and before I said anything else, The officer said yea, and I am “The Lone Ranger!”
An airplane was out of fuel and experiencing mechanical problems. It was certain to crash. There were 4 passengers on board, but only 3 parachutes. The 1st passenger said, “I am LeBron James, the best NBA basketball player. The Lakers and my millions of fans need me, and I can’t afford to die.” So, he took the 1st pack and left the
plane. The 2nd passenger said, “I am Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon and millions of people rely on my company everyday. I can’t die.” He took the 2nd pack and jumped out of the plane. The 3rd passenger, Pope Leo, said to the 4th passenger, a 10-year-old schoolboy, “My son, I am old and don’t have many years left. You have more years ahead so I will sacrifice my life and let you have the last parachute.” The little boy said, “That’s okay, Your Holiness, there’s a parachute left for you. Mr. Bezos took my school bag!”
If you see your glass is half empty, pour it into a smaller glass and stop bitchin’!
Around forty years ago my first wife, myself, and our children were living in the house of her deceased father. One of her sisters also stayed there. It was a hot sunny day, and the flies were terrible as we were outside while my wife was hanging clothes on the clothesline to dry. Her sister (a very conceited person at the time) came out, sat down, and after a few minutes of swatting at flies made the remark, “I’m so sweet the flies just won’t leave me alone!” I couldn’t resist and said, “Yeah, and flies eat s__t, too!” My wife gave me hell for that, but it was worth it.
My wife who is blond, but this is not meant to be a Blonde joke. We were watching the finish of the round the world single handed yacht race on the news. My wife said, “That’s ridiculous, how would they know if they used their other hand!!”
In a burgeoning town in the Old West a young man was looking to set up a new business. Bars, blacksmiths, harness shops were all taken so he purchased a nice 3 story house in a quiet part of town and found some very pretty models to provide private entertainment on the first floor. Business was good, so he decided to open the second floor. There were no more models but there were some nice-looking secretaries who were happy to provide their services. Soon the second floor was busy too, so he freshened up the top floor, but the only girls left were some schoolteachers. He gave it a try and very soon the waiting list for the third floor was long! The only business coming to the second floor and first floor was overflow from the third. He decided to dig deeper into the
situation and quietly hid by a room on the first floor. The model said, “I have a photo shoot this evening so absolutely do not touch my hair… or my makeup. No kissing!” Well, that was a turnoff. He went on to the second floor. The secretary said, “Now I need to have your full name and address. I’m keeping complete files on all our business here.” Obviously, that would be awkward for future business so on up to the third floor. He happened to listen just as business had finished and he heard the schoolteacher say, “Now, if you are ever going to get this right, you have to do it over and over again.”
When I was a teenager, a neighbor taught me how to blow up stumps, with stuff commonly found on a farm. That’s probably not something that every teenager should know. I’m not going to give instructions for that reason. The second piece of scary advice I got, was scary because it was so wrong. I was told that you couldn’t get pregnant on your first time. I was also told withdrawal was a safe and effective method. I got lucky and found out the truth before there was an accident.
ATTORNEY: Doctor, before you performed the autopsy, did you check for a pulse? WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: Did you check for blood pressure?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: Did you check for breathing?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: So, then it is possible that the patient was alive when you began the autopsy?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: How can you be so sure, Doctor?
WITNESS: Because his brain was sitting on my desk in a jar.
ATTORNEY: I see, but could the patient have still been alive, nevertheless?
WITNESS: Yes, it is possible that he could have been alive and practicing law. (These are from a book called: “Disorder in the American Courts”, and are things people actually said in court, word for word, taken down and now published by court reporters that had the torment of staying calm while these exchanges were actually taking place.)
