May is here! Hopefully this month comes with a lot of two and three wheeled miles, and we will also try to ride safely. Gov. Reynolds signed the Motorcycle Awareness Month proclamation for the month of May at the ABATE Day at the Capitol a couple of months back. This is an Iowa (as well as nationwide) reminder to cages to keep us in your thoughts, and in your eyes when driving. Put up your ABATE “Watch for Motorcycles” yard signs, put on your IMDA “Look out for Motorcycles” bumper stickers, and remind everyone you see that two wheels are back on the roads. An event geared toward safety of motorcycles is the Motorcycle Safety Forum on May 11th in Des Moines. This event is hosted by the Iowa DOT with help from ABATE of Iowa and others. It is sure worth the trip and a day off work to attend and learn. Motorcycle Awareness Month is also a reminder to riders to consider safety at all times when riding. Ride defensively and always watch out for “the other guy”. I am sure if you ever look at the pages of TRMI you have seen the “Save 60” stuff plastered here, as well as on the website and social media. Part of keeping motorcycles safe is increasing awareness about our presence and right to share the road with all other vehicles. Another part of motorcycle safety is riders themselves making sure we have the tools necessary to make it home safely. Save 60 is a joint effort between TRMI, ABATE, and the IMDA to remind riders to be responsible and do what you need to do to make it home after every ride. Make sure that you and your riding buddies have a valid motorcycle endorsement, take or retake a motorcycle safety course, and ride straight by not overindulging when out on the road. The harder we try to take care of ourselves, the less the lawmakers will try to infringe upon our lives. Watch for Motorcycles! Watch out for each other!
TCR this year with May and finish at the end of August. Each of the four months, there are different check in sites that you can hit up. Each one of the 15 spots per month is good for only that month. They are all listed right on these very pages. At the end we will draw the winners of the grand prizes from all of the Check Ins and notify the winners of what they won and where they can go to claim their prizes. We hope you enjoy trying to hit all, or as many of the 60 different Check In sites that are on board this year! May brings us Memorial Day which is officially celebrated on the last Monday of May. Memorial Day is dedicated to service men and women who gave their lives for freedom and country. There are many different events that occur on this coveted three day weekend, but don’t forget about the purpose of the holiday itself. Remember those that have paid the ultimate price so that we can live free. Also in May is Armed Forces Day which is always the third Saturday in May. This day is to honor all of the men and women in all branches of military, who protect you and our country. These current day active service heroes deserve a pat on the back, a handshake, and a giant “thank you” for their service. TRMI would like to thank the families of the fallen, and the soldiers of today. Our hats off to you! Thanks to all of the readers, sponsors, and supporters of the magazine. Without them we could not bring you these pages every month, or cool stuff like the Tall Corn Run! Darken their doors; tell them Thunder Roads sent ya! Thanks! Ride often, ride many miles, ride with safety in mind! Vernon
When you do get out and about, check out the Tall Corn Run Quote of the Month: “Patriotism is supporting your country again this year. We scaled back a little bit in time and prizes, all the time, and your government when it deserves it.” but still have it going yet again in 2018. We start off the Mark Twain
On the Cover Cover Photo Credit: The cover photo was taken last summer during the Hot August Night event on the city square in Jefferson by Matt Wetrich. Matt is a naturalist, photographer, husband, father, and lover of life. His photography work can be seen at his Funky Feather Photography website: https://funkyfeatherphotography.smugmug.com/
Matt wanted to highlight the Bikes, the Run, The Tower, and the great people in and around Jefferson that make this event happen every year. The Greene County Motorcycle Charity (GCMC) is looking forward to the 10th Annual Bell Tower Festival motorcycle events on Saturday, June 9th. Come join along in the fun, the run, and a great biker and family friendly event in Jefferson. 4 - TRMI MAY 2018
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It’s reaching epidemic proportions, the fever is upon us! With our swap meets out of the way and all the event flyers showing up, I sure feel afflicted. The tires have been checked, the dead battery in one bike has been changed out, the other with the deceased fob is fixed, the dust has been pushed around and they all started and are now alive. It’s amazing how just seeing the flyers, looking at the calendar and doing some planning can improve a person’s outlook. The anticipation of good things gets the adrenaline pumping. Looking out the window and reading an article on riding the Rocky Mountains makes me almost not feel old and sore, at least until I try to stand up and walk too fast. It didn’t seem like that long ago that I could still catch the smallest grand kid or at least Karla without the risk of permanent crippling. Oh well, be thankful and enjoy what you have while you have it; improvise, adapt and overcome right? Anything to get back on the road.
Holy Spirit to live with us. The good news is that it isn’t hard. We don’t have to be sin-free and squeaky clean. We couldn’t be even if we wanted to because we don’t have the strength on our own to get Anyone familiar with CMA probably knows about all the bike blessings around the country in the next month. there. It is God’s power at work in Please come participate, get to know us and hopefully us that breaks the share some road time with us this year. Also, the first Saturday in May is our annual Run for the Son, our only bondage. Romans fundraiser of the year which goes towards ministry in 38 countries as well as what we do in the States. We are 10: 9-10 able to partner with Missionary Ventures where we give states “if you bikes to indigenous pastors for the creation of churches confess in inhospitable terrain and cultures. Most of these are with your mouth that dirt bikes, over 6,100 so far, as well as 6,800 bicycles, Jesus is Lord and believe 36 horses, 34 boats, buggies, snowmobiles, and even in your heart that God a camel in the mix. Whatever it takes. We also partner raised him from the dead, with Open Doors ministry to distribute Bibles to the you will be saved. For with persecuted and underground churches in mostly closed the heart one believes and is countries, communist, Muslim etc. Our third partner is and with the mouth The Jesus Film Project which as its name implies shows justified the Jesus film in countries all over the world. Shown and one confesses and is saved.” God, who is rich in mercy and love even when we were dead in sin, made us alive translated into their own language, it’s now surpassed together with Christ. That is truly something to look 1500 different languages. Technology is such that there are now teams that can show the film in jungle clearings forward to. or mountain villages without electricity. Many of you Salvation is God’s contract with us, but like one of our may know we are a service-evangelistic association pastors said, a contract is only in force when accepted and try to make as many events here in the States, little by both parties. The deal can be provided but unless we and big, in order to help out at and hopefully have accept it there is no ratification. He made the way, his opportunities to share Jesus, bikes and life in general. word is true and his promises are forever. Take a look and see how much he cares for you. As much as we anticipate all these good things to come this season, Scripture tells us that it is nothing compared Blessings, Mark to what we have to look forward to in eternity. 1 Corinthians says, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and Mark and Karla Cornick are Area Reps with the Christian no mind has imagined the things that God has prepared Motorcyclists Association. Find out more about CMA for those who love him.” God’s mercy, Jesus’ sacrifice and God’s plan for you at www.cmausa.org . and payment for us on the cross gave us an inheritance with him. He even calls us joint heirs in heaven. Christ defeated death, the power of darkness, and gave us his 6 - TRMI MAY 2018
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The Biker Friendly Business Edwards Motorsports and RV’s 1010 34th Avenue Directory is a list of establishments Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501 throughout Iowa that sponsor the 712-366-8400 magazine. You can pick up your copy here every month. Let them fullthrottleia.com or edwardsrvs.com know that you saw them in TRMI. Fenders Cycle and Motorsport If your business would like to 1500 E Army Post Road advertise in Thunder Roads Iowa Des Moines, Iowa 50315 Biker Friendly Business Listing and 515-256-9062 become a part of the network, www.fenderscycle.com please email vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com Indian Motorcycle of Mason City Mason City Powersports 12499 265th Street Mason City Biker Accessories 641-423-3181 Masoncitypowersportsinc.com CoolBikerStuff.com Loess Hills Harley-Davidson 1606 P Avenue 57408 190th Street Milford, Iowa 51351 Pacific Junction IA 51561 214-914-4555 Text or Call 712-622-4000 Follow us on Facebook!! loesshillshd.com Crispy’s Biker Apparel MCA Cedar Rapids, Iowa Midwest Cycle Authority Find Us On Facebook 4200 E 14th Street DSM 319-241-0916 515-266-2100 On Facebook HMC Industries, Inc. 702 S. 3rd Ave. Metro Harley-Davidson Marshalltown, IA 50158 2415 Westdale Drive SW Toll Free: 844-957-1502 Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404 hmcindustries.com 319-362-9496 www.metro-motorsports.com Leather & Hawgs 316 Main, Hornick, Iowa Nishna Valley Cycle 121 1st St, Soldier, Iowa HONDA – YAMAHA – KTM leather@wiatel.net Atlantic, Iowa 50022 www.leatherandhawgs.com 1-888-577-6406 www.nishnavalleycycle.com
Churches
Least of Saints Ministry 1305 E 10th Street S Newton, Iowa 641-521-0156 Leastofsaintsministry.com Rebels In His Hands 600 16th Avenue Council Bluffs, Iowa Mark and Lora Schiller Pastors 712-329-9901
Dealers
Route 65 Harley-Davidson 1300 S Jefferson Way Indianola, Iowa 50125 515.962.2160 www.route65hd.net Route69Customs.com 2814 SE 14th St, DSM 515-288-9600 Custom American V-twins Follow us on Facebook Storm Lake Honda 3040 Expansion Blvd Storm Lake, Iowa 50588 StormLakeHonda.com 712-732-2460
Baxter Cycle 311 4th Street Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2351 www.baxtercycle.com
Struthers Bros Kaw-Suz-Tri 5191 NW 2nd Avenue Des Moines, Iowa 50313 515-282-3634 www.struthersbros.com
Big Barn Harley-Davidson 81 NW 49th Place Des Moines, Iowa 50313 515-265-4444 www.bigbarnhd.net
Uptown Motors Sales, Inc 310 Cleveland St Muscatine, IA 52761 563-263-2944 www.uptownmotorsales.com
Carroll Cycle Center 1327 Plaza Dr Carroll, Iowa 712-792-1610 www.carrollcycle.com
Zylstra Harley-Davidson 1930 E 13th Street Ames, Iowa 50010 515-232-6223 zylstrahd.com
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Entertainment Book Em Dano’s 33 S Main Street Denison, Iowa 51442 712-263-9818Mon-Sat 4-2 Dancers Nightly 5-1:30 Celebrations DJ & Karaoke Services Newton, IA 641-521-8036 Any Occasion /Rally or Event EmCee Facebook/Ray Johansen(Celebrations) Specializing in Weddings & Receptions National Motorcycle Museum 102 Chamber Drive Anamosa, Iowa 52205 319-462-3925 Nationalmcmuseum.org Okoboji Classic Cars Museum and Restoration Shop 810 Jeppeson Road West Okoboji, Iowa 51351 712-332-8029
Food and Drink (Popular Poker & Fun Run Locations) Ambro’s Roadhouse 917 Guthrie St De Soto, Iowa 50069 515-468-2236 Great Food! Ambro’s Roadhouse on Facebook American Legion Post 46 1301 S 6th Street Marshalltown, Iowa50158 641-752-3612 Open to the Public 7 Days a Week American Legion Post 111 1101 W 4th Street S Newton 641-792-3353 Open to the Public 7 Days a Week Newtonamericanlegion111.org Amigo’s 280 North 1st Street Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501 515-576-0142 Amigosfortdodge.com Barney’s 203 S Mill Street Wadena, Iowa 52169 563-774-2525 Barney’s Wadena on Facebook Baxa’s Sutliff Store & Tavern 5546 130th Street NE Lisbon 319-624-2204 Cold Beer, Delicious Food, Good Music & Great Times! Calvin Rockett Bar & Grill 2013 South Center Street Marshalltown, Iowa 50158 641-328-1033 Open 7 Days a Week 11 – Close
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Catfish Charlie’s On the Mississippi River 1630 E. 16th Street Dubuque, IA 52001 (563)582-8600 www.CatfishCharliesDubuque.com Chrome Horse Saloon 1201 3rd St SE-319-499-0751 1140 Blairs Ferry RD NE 365-1234 Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401 Check Us Out on Facebook Live Music Friday & Sat Desperados 105 E 5th Street Atlantic 712-243-7087 Home of Cold Beer, Good Times, Pizza & Wings Firehouse Bar 1211 5th Street Downtown Sioux City, IA 712-224-1020 Open Daily at 12:00 Flat Tire Lounge 304 S Madison Madrid 515-795-4174 Outdoor Patios – Happy Hour 3-9 Flat Tire Lounge on Facebook Fore Seasons Golf Bar 6232 HWY S-74 South Newton, Iowa 50208 641-792-1246 Open to the Public 7 Days a Week Grinnell Eagles Club 616 4th Avenue Grinnell, Iowa 50112 Open 7 Days a Week Check Us on Facebook Grinnell Pub 909 State Street Grinnell, Iowa 50112 641-260-8003 Grinpub@aol.com Goozman’s Westside Bar & Grill 1019 7th St Harlan, Iowa 712-755-2259 Goozman’s Westside on Facebook Happenings Bar 508 W Market Street Steamboat Rock, Iowa www.happeningsbar.com 641-868-2000 Haverhill Social Club 202 1st Street Haverhill, Iowa 50120 641-475-3321 Mon-Sat 10-2, Sun 12-12 Hog Stop BBQ 2327 S. 24th Street Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501 712-EAT-BBQS Hog Stop BBQ on Facebook J.R. Willie’s Gateway to the Beautiful Hill Country Colesburg, IA 563-856-5095 Open Daily Mon-Sun 11AM Home of the Willie Whopper
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Just 1 More 515-570-4206 641-757-0159 309 Railway Jamaica, Iowa 50128
North 40 Bar Magnolia, Iowa 402-301-8234 Look Us Up on Facebook Come Have Fun at the GYM!
Sambetti’s Bar and Grill 1430 2nd Avenue Des Moines, Iowa 50314 515-245-9780 Mon-Sat 11a-2a, Sun 11a-7p
The Buck Snort Oakland 310 Dr Van Zee Road Oakland, Iowa 51560 712-355-5315 The Buck Snort Oakland on FB
KC’s Tavern 120 N Main Street Bridgewater, Iowa 50837 Mon-Fri 4:30-Close, Sat-Sun 1-Close Find Us on FB 641-369-2017
Old Timer Tavern 401 S Center Street Marshalltown Mon-Sat 6am-2am, Sun 12pm-2am Outdoor Patio-Live Entertainment 641-753-9854 and Facebook
Sandbar 103 North Noyes Street Mondamin, Iowa 51557 712-646-2300 Facebook Sandar Mondamin
The Buck Snort Red Oak 322 E Coolbaugh Street Red Oak, Iowa 51566 712-357-1701 The Buck Snort Red Oak on Facebook
Kippy’s Place 364 NW Main Street Elkhart, Iowa 50073 51-37-3104 Open at 11 Daily..find us on FB
Outsiders Pub 207 N. Main Street Roland, Iowa, 50236 515-388-4443 Outsiders Pub on Facebook
Scooters on Broadway 475 NE Broadway Des Moines, Iowa 515-288-1053 scootersonbroadway@hotmail.com
The Lounge 1005 Chatburn Ave Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-755-5050 The Lounge Harlan Iowa on Facebook
Knickers Saloon 2186 Central Avenue Dubuque, Iowa 52001 563-557-0887 365 Days a Year Knickers Saloon on Facebook
Papa Joe’s 117 South 6th Street Missouri Valley, Iowa 51555 712-642-9015
Sidetracked 206 West Union Street Creston, Iowa 50801 641-782-8534
The Place2B! 116 N. Federal Ave Mason City, IA 50401 M-F 3p-2a S-S 2p-2a Find Us On Facebook
Pearl Street Social Club 110 Pearl Street SW Shellsburg, Iowa 52332 319-436-7100 Find Us On Facebook!
Stumpy’s Bar & Grill 423 Main Street Duncombe, Iowa 50532 515-543-4222 Stumpy’s Bar & Grill on Facebook
Pines Steakhouse Oinkers Lounge & Grill
1500 E 7th Street Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-243-3606 M-F 11AM-, S-S 4PM-
Suds –N- Jugs Bar & Grill 807 Iowa Avenue Onawa, Iowa 51040 712-433-4880 Nightly Food Specials
Polk City Pub 217 W Broadway Polk City, Iowa 50226 515-984-9388 Open @ 11:00AM / Closed Mon.
Sugar’s Diner & Lounge 2725 E Kanesville Blvd Council Bluffs, Iowa 712-322-3600 Check us out on Facebook
Red Oak Tap 419 E. Reed Red Oak, Iowa 51566 712-623-4788
T.J.’s Pourhouse 100 E. Washington Street Exira, Iowa 50076 712-268-2353 Open M-SAT.@11, SUN.@ NOON
Latitude 41 6170 NW Polk City Dr Polk City, Iowa Floating Bar, Bands Find us on Facebook Lynn’s On Merle Hay 6014 NW 59th Ct Johnston, Iowa 50131 515-270-9806 Find us on Facebook!
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Mainstreet Bar 204 E. Main Street Terril, Iowa 51364 507-841-0978 Check Us Out on Facebook Main Street 519 S Main Street Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501 712-256-3613 Open 7 Days a Week McCanns Tap NE 14th & 54th Des Moines, Iowa 50313 Bike Parking M-F 2:00 Sat & Sun 11:00
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Mi Casa Family Restaurant 512 Market Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-755-2258 Enjoy Drinks at the Full Bar! Midway Tavern 206 1st Street Soldier, Iowa 712-884-2230 www.midwaytavernsoldier.com Montgomery Street Pub 207 East Montgomery Street Creston, Iowa 50801 641-782-2165 Mudders in Minburn Coldest Beer in Dallas County Bar Food-Wings-Pizza-ETC 515-897-9223 Open M-Sun 11AM Facebook Mudders
Riverside Tavern 450 E Main St Lehigh, Iowa 50557 515-359-9998 Email:riversidetap@gmail.com RJ’s Bar & Grill 228 High Street – Kellogg Mon-Sat Lunch and Dinner 6 AM Breakfast Sat-Sun 641-526-9911 Roadhouse 105 Washington Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2272 Home of the Marne Burger Ruby’s Pub and Grill 114 NE 2nd Street Stuart NEWLY REMODELED Full Kitchen & Bar Check us out on Facebook Rumors Bar & Grill 400 F Ave Cedar Rapids, IA Live Music & Food 319-286-0806
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The Back Forty 317 Main St. Macedonia, Iowa 51549 712-486-2687 facebook.com/thebackforty The Buck Snort Restaurant & Sports Bar 25 Scott Street Council Bluffs, Iowa 51503 712-328-2825 TheBuckSnortrestaurantandsportsbaronFB The Buck Snort 419 Sharp Street Glenwood, Iowa 51534 712-520-6454 Buck Snort Glenwood on Facebook The Buck Snort 113 4th Street Neola, Iowa 51559 712-485-9090 The Buck Snort on Facebook The Buck Snort Neb City 715 1st Corso Nebraska City, NE 68410 402-713-5169 Buck Snort Neb City on Facebook
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The Yankee Clipper 312 SW Maple St Ankeny, Ia 50023 515-964-9484 yankeeclipperbar.com Thirsty’s on 3rd 2202 W 3rd, Davenport 563-424-1143 Follow Us on Facebook Daily Thirst Quenching Deals Tobey Jacks Mineola Steak House Mineola, Iowa 712-526-2078 Open 7 Days a Week Check Us Out on Facebook Vic’s Main Tap 304 Broadway Audubon, Iowa 50025 712-563-2122 Opens Sun-Fri 2:30, Sat 9:30 Whatcha Smokin? BBQ+Brew 403 Iowa Avenue Luther, Iowa 50152 515-257-7490 Everyday 11am-9pm Whitetails Bar & Grill 101 N. Main St. Marble Rock IA,50653 641-397-9900 Mon- Sat 7am breakfast 2am Close www.whitetailsbarandgrill.com Wilson’s Tap and Recreation 1008 Story Street Boone, Iowa 50036/ 515-433-1395
Guns and Ammo 2A Firearms Training Training to Protect Your 2nd Amendment Rights 641-439-6660 Craig.2aft@gmail.com JLM Shooters Supply 6931 Douglas Avenue Urbandale, Iowa 50322 jlmgunshop@gmail.com 515-331-1577
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Magnum Gun Sales 26487 Mulberry Lane Underwood, Iowa 51576 712-566-8100 Just Off I-80, Exit 17 McCunn Specialty Firearms 74980 Richland Road Massena, Iowa 50853 www.mccunnsguns.com 712-779-GUNS Wendl’s Weapons 529 N East Street Carroll, Iowa 51401 712-775-2338 www.wendlsweapons.com
Insurance & Financial Farm Bureau Financial Services 208 Faith Ave Underwood, IA 51576 Shane.baker@fbfs.com 712-310-7475 or 402-379-3237 O’Malley Wealth Mgmt. 5623 NW 86th Street Suite 400 Johnston, Iowa 50131 515-490-0930 State Farm Clark Ahrenholtz, Agent NMLS# 1679997 2114 12th Street Harlan, Iowa 712-755-5724 Clark.ahrenholtz.jb69@statefarm.com
Jewelry Bill’s Jewelry Shop 903 Main Street Grinnell, Iowa 50112 641-236-1008 Rings Checked FREE!
Legal Hupy and Abraham sc, pc Lawyers for Bikers 800.800.5678 Hupy.com TheBikerLawyers.com Leehey Olson Law, PC Riding & Defending Your Rights for Over 30 Years 877-209-9452 Walker, Billingsley & Bair 208 N. 2nd Ave. West Newton, Iowa 50208 Corey@WalkLaw.com 641-792-3595
Lodging/Food
Photo and Art Ullrich Photography PO Box 1842 Clinton, Iowa 52733 563-243-8715 www.natanic.com
Services
Creative Concepts Collision 422 Market Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712.755.2231 Cycle Clinic 2209 ML King Pkwy Des Moines, Iowa 50314 cycleclinicdm.com 515-288-6954 F & J Racing 701 N 3rd Ave Marshalltown, Iowa 50158 641-752-8651 www.fandjracing.com
A+ Affordable Heat, Air, Refrigeration & Geo Thermal 22274 Old Lincoln Hwy Crescent, Iowa 51526 Halo Motorsports 712-329-9901 Dyno Tuning/Trike Conversions/Service 101 2nd Street All Action Towing Grand Junction, Iowa 50107 Council Bluffs, Iowa 515-370-2568 712-325-8235 Discount or FREE Indian Phil’s Motorcycle Towing 2135 S. Ankeny Blvd Ankeny, Iowa 50023 BCS Computers indianphill@yahoo.com 100 Industrial Road 515-795-6158 Guthrie Center, Iowa 50115 641-747-3344 Mean Machine Cycle Parts www.brubakercomputer.com Elkhart, Iowa 50073 Stereos, Bars, LED Lights, Air Ride CJ Now Plumbing Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-12 Sewer & Water Specialists 515-367-7336 309-786-2002 Serving the Quad Cities Area Motorcycle Medic On Call 24-7 3176 Highway 30 Woodbine, Iowa 51579 Jason Roberts, LLC 712-647-2818 Haul It, Dig It, Doze It Open Tues-Sat Noon-6PM Code931993@yahoo.com 641-740-1411 Nelson Machine & Forge General Machining, Ornamental Southwest Iowa Sandblasting Iron, Weld/Fab Mike Magers 70 Washington Street 65162 Oxford Rd Marne, Iowa 51552 Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-781-2220 712-249-3995 Pike Run Services 320 Main Shops & Fabricators Nichols, Iowa 52766 Shop 319-723-4244 Cell 319-330-4541 Bent Wrench Cycles 911 7th Street Road Rage BikeWorks Harlan, Iowa 51537 401 High Street 712-235-2453 Avoca, Iowa 51521 Bent Wrench Cycles on Facebook 712-307-6111 Road Rage BikeWorks on Facebook Bigfuuts Paint & Repair Baxter, IA 515-577-6730 SS Collision, Cycle Works & Graphics Custom Paint & Fabrication 2902 11th Ave SW After Hours Service & Parts Spencer, Iowa 51301 Stereos-Electrical-Repairs 712-262-3959 www.sscollision.com Butterfield’s M.C. Parts 8025 Blondo Street Omaha, NE 68134 402-391-3768
Steffens Cycle Shop LLC 1311 E 7th Street Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-243-3076 Mon-Fri 9-5, Sat 9-12 or Call The Vic Shop DeSoto, Iowa 515-339-4313 Facebook.com/TheVicShop VICTORY ONLY Weeks Manufacturing & Powdercoating 2235 400th Street Walnut, Iowa 51577 402-651-6977 weeksmanufacturing@gmail.com
Tattoos Lucky Gal Tattoo & Piercing 515-257-7940 3 Locations Des Moines * Ankeny www.luckygaltattoo.com
Tires Sandbothe Firestone 1106 Main Street Griswold, Iowa 51535 712-778-2223 Sandbothe Firestone on Facebook
Trailers 4 Seasons Trailer & Equipment 187 Highway 6 Grinnell, Iowa 50112 641-990-8732 www.4seasonsgrinnell.com Lacaeyse Trailer Sales 4192 HWY 146 Grinnell Trailers & Truck Accessories 641-990-2674 www.lacaeysetrailers.com
To buy ad space for your business or service in our directory, give us call at 712-249-5630 or email vernon@ thunderroadsiowa.com
Chuck’s Cycle Service and Repair S&S and Drag Specialties Dealer 714 East 7th Street Washington, Iowa52353 319-461-5278
Laid Back Manor 312 Parker Street Green Mountain, Iowa (870)484-2561 “A great little place to ride to!”
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Submitted by Roger Duffey of Duffey Cycles in Riverside, Iowa 14 - TRMI MAY 2018
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THIS BRINGS US TO THIS, WATCH OUT FOR THE EXHAUST.
Motorcycle Interest from rjrlaw If you are finally about to ride along with your significant other on their motorcycle, there are a few things you need to know. Being a good passenger in a vehicle is one thing, but on a motorcycle it can be the difference between life and death. We are not telling you this as a means of intimidating you. Rather, to tell you why you should take it seriously. Riding along on the motorcycle, especially when you don’t have to be in control of it is pretty exhilarating. But, before you go we’re going to tell you how to be a good passenger.
Your seat is right over top of that exhaust pipe. You can get some pretty severe burns from that stuff. So, keep your feet locked onto the rest. You don’t want to accidentally rub your leg up against this while you’re riding. I guarantee you’ll jerk it off, which can cause some pretty serious issues. This brings us to this… DO NOT MAKE ANY SUDDEN MOVEMENTS You are part of a balancing act. Making any sudden movements can throw off the balance, and the driver. I don’t have to tell you how a loss of balance can be detrimental. If the driver isn’t expecting movement, they could lose control of the vehicle and end up in the roadway. COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY
If you can’t communicate with each other, there is no possible way for you to be a good passenger. Communication is the key to riding together. If you two can’t get through a conversation without FIRST THINGS FIRST, GET arguing, riding a bike together might not be your best bet. DRESSED IN TIGHT CLOTHING You need to be able to establish what you’re comfortable with. From what’s too fast, to how you tell the driver if No, this isn’t so you’ll look great on the back of the bike. you need to pull over, and the likes. Some helmets come Loose clothing can be a big danger. As a passenger, your equipped with Bluetooth. If you have that luxury, that is seat is right on top of a lot of the nitty gritty. I know, a great. But if you don’t, you’ll need to establish a system. skirt flowing in the wind is the kind of romantic you’d envisioned. But, that flowing fabric could get caught in a lot Remember that you are a passenger, and you don’t have the of different places. And, not to mention, you want a strong normal protection of a car. So, listen to your driver. If they tell you to lean with them, lean, accommodate. As we’ve thick fabric just in case you happen to graze that exhaust said, you’re part of the balancing act. pipe it gets pretty hot down there. BEING A GOOD PASSENGER ON A MOTORCYCLE
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For Metro Harley-Davidson in Cedar Rapids giving back is important to everyone that works here. As many of you know, our bike nights are more than just getting the biker community together to hang out and have a good time. They are how we have raised $237,500 for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. In the first two years of holding Metro Motor Madness and giving away a custom bike we were able to donate over $100,000 to the hospital. That is where things turned into something greater than we had ever thought possible. The hospital named a room after our Metro Motor Madness Family, room 620 bares this name. The 620 Club was created in 2017, as a way to raise more money and thank our customers for their donations. After a lot of brainstorming, we came up with a way to incorporate the room into our bike giveaways and bike nights. The 620 Club was born. This is a club where people can pledge to donate $600 to the hospital for 60 chances to win the giveaway bike. After you have completed your donation, we in turn give you 20 extra tickets to be thrown into the pot. I know what you’re thinking; $600 at once is a lot of money! Well lucky for you we start taking pledges in January at our Winter Sucks party, where the bike is unveiled. We then give you until the second Thursday in September when we give the bike away to complete your pledge.
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This year’s bike is a BEAUTIFUL 2018 Custom Road Glide. This bike has been customized from the ground up thanks to a number of people and companies that donated products and time to make this bike what it is. This year’s vendor donations came from Dakota Digital, Legend Suspension, Ciro, Woods Cams, Dirty Bird Windshields, Arlen Ness, Dunlop, Kuryakyn, Custom Dynamics, RC Components, Performance Machine, Le Pera and Rush Exhaust. Rush is a first time donator this year, donating the first set of 2018 touring head pipes ever made! We can’t forget about the people that donated time to give this bike its beautiful look. Starting with Waln Repair and Collision Center, Grant’s Custom Coating, Scott Takes at Underground Art Studios and Drew Schlichting. With everything that came from all of these companies and people we are proud to give you the bike we call “Desire.” Make sure you stop by Metro HarleyDavidson to get your tickets to help raise funds for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital and to check out Desire. You can also purchase tickets online at www.metroharley-davidson.com Mandy James Metro Harley-Davidson
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occupies only 0.31 square miles of land. It is home to the historic Fort Atkinson State Preserve, and hosts a
99 counties to tour on the bike, 99 counties to tour, take one down, drive on around, 4 counties to tour on the bike. A few years back, a summer riding goal was to ride through each one of the counties of Iowa, and what was found was a wealth of interest and beauty. Each month we will revisit each county as a featured article. We will tell you about new things to see, places to ride, and give you a little spark of curiosity for our state of Iowa.
Winneshiek County Winneshiek County is located in the north east corner of the state, and boarders Minnesota to the north. The population is home to just over 21,000 people with a total area of 690 square miles, only 0.3 of those miles being water. Organized in 1851, the county seat is Decorah, and the county is named after the advisor to War Chief Black Hawk, Chief Winneshiek of the Winnebago Indian Tribe. Several highways intersect Winneshiek County, including US 52, IA 139, and IA 150 running north/south; also IA 9 and IA 24 running east/west. In addition to major highways, there are plenty of county roads to peruse through the county looking at all this north eastern gem has to offer its visitors.
large annual fur trapper meeting each September. Originally, Fort Atkinson was built to protect the Winnebago during their removal from Wisconsin, and is named for Henry Atkinson, the commanding officer in charge of the endeavor. Construction began in May 1840 and was complete by the summer of 1842. The regular army turned the fort over to Iowa volunteers as the troops stationed there were needed for the Mexican-American War. After the Winnebago We made our way into Winneshiek from the Indians were removed from the area, the post was southwest, making our first stop just inside the boarder in the berg of Jackson Junction. With just shy abandoned in 1849. It was then that pioneers were of 60 people making their home on 5.9 square miles, allowed to settle the region. Some of the former soldiers at Fort Atkinson remained and developed it was like many other small towns on our county farms in the area. About 20 years later, in 1869, the tours‌quiet and rural in nature. From here, Hwy 24 railroad entered the region and the town of Fort took us a short jaunt over to Fort Atkinson. Atkinson then began to grow. With the coming of the railroad, many jobs were provided for local people. Fort Atkinson was incorporated on June 26, 1895. A depot was formed which provided service and The current population is 350 residents, and the city maintenance, and by 1873 train shipments of grain, livestock, and mill stuffs totaled nearly 360 train loads each year. The railroad was also used very widely for traveling. If you happen to find yourself in the area, be sure to check out the historic ruins of Fort Atkinson, as they are a pretty cool part of Iowa history. If you are in search of food and/or drink you can swing by The Fort at 100 Oak Street for salads, burgers, chicken, and a large assortment of appetizers. They will be happy to get you what you need! From Fort Atkinson we jumped back on to 24 and headed for Calmar. Calmar is located at the junction of highways US 52 and IA 150 and IA 24. Interestingly, both 150 and 24 have their terminating points in Calmar. Calmar was settled in 1854 and was named after Kalmar, a city in Sweden. This little settlement
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also experienced its largest growth in 1868 when the railroad was built through it. In fact, in the 1870’s through the 1890’s, Calmar showed a population gain from 700 to almost 1,100 people. Today the population is just over 900 residents. Calmar, at one time, was a major railroad hub of the Milwaukee Rail Road between Marquette and Mason City. Passenger trains ran on this line until the 1960’s. In addition to hauling passengers, these trains also handled express shipments for all the stops along the line. The station in Calmar was staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. By 1902 the railroad hub at Calmar was booming. Calmar is also home to Lake Meyer, a 156 acre park offering tent and trailer camping, showers, restrooms, skiing, hiking trails, picnic areas, fishing, and boating. There is also a nature center that is open on weekdays. The Park is located a mile west off Hwy 24 between Calmar and Fort Atkinson. A cool place to visit in the area is PIVO Brewery on 101 Huber Drive. The brewery offers small-batch beer & cider in their tap room, which is open Wednesday through Friday from 2-10, Saturday 11-10, and Sunday 11-6. Stop by and enjoy a pint or two of local flavor! If food is higher on your list of priorities, then head on over to The Train Station at 202 N Maryville Street for some delicious diner grub. Good burgers and breakfast are always on the menu for your enjoyment!
Now by this point in our day, we had dilly-dallied more than our fair share, and we still had miles of county left to cover, so we high tailed it northwest, backtracking a bit in order to hit a couple more spots before our final stop of the day in Decorah. First pit stop on our backpedaling adventure was in the town of Spillville. A small town nestled among the soft rolling hills of the Turkey River Valley; Spillville boasts a strong cultural and musical history. With a population of 370, Spillville was originally platted in 1860 by a German settler; the village became a refuge for Czechs. In fact, the Czech composer Antonin Dvorak spent the summer of 1893 in Spillville with a friend. It was here that he composed two of his most famous works: the String Quartet in F (“The American”) and the String Quintet in E-flat. Spillville is also the site of the Inwood Ballroom and the Bily Clock Museum. Also unique to Spillville is St. Wenceslaus Church. Built in 1860, it is the oldest Czech Catholic Church in the United States. A must see when you visit Spillville is the Old Stones Water Mill. Although 37 water mills operated in Winneshiek County over the years, Big Stones is one of only three that remain today. Built in 1865, this grist mill was powered by a 48” Leffel hydraulic turbine and a spar dam contained the mill pond. In the early years, the mill’s principal product was high quality flour trademarked “Big Stone”. The mill is currently in the process of being restored.
While we were still in the southern region of the county we decided to make our stops in Ossian and Castalia before venturing north. Ossian is right along Hwy 52 just south east of Calmar. Ossian has a population of 845 and was platted in 1855. Named for its founder, John Ossian Porter, the city has a total area of 1.11 square miles, all of it land. Ossian was not actually incorporated until 1876. Because of Ossian’s A short ride north on W14 landed location on the Military Trail, it was a center for us briefly in Ridgeway. Ridgeway railroad trails, which still pass through today. If you need a cold one on your way by, be sure to stop at Shooter’s on west Main Street for a quick one. They also offer sandwiches and pizza if you’re in the mood. Just a stone’s throw down 52 from Ossian lies Castalia. Castalia occupies half a square mile of land and is home to 170 locals. The railroad also made its path through this berg in 1864, but the economic boom experienced by other towns didn’t occur on such a large scale for Castalia. The incorporation of Castalia eventually occurred in 1902. One thing this small berg has going for them is a little place called Susie’s First Chance Saloon on 102 west Green Street. Now at first glance it may not look like much, but inside you can find ice cold drinks, and I am told they have one hell of a Taco Tuesday…and who doesn’t love tacos? Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook
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is home to 315 residents, and covers just over one square mile of property in Winneshiek County, all of it land. Ridgeway sits atop Hwy 9, which is exactly what we needed to head directly into the center of Winneshiek, and the county seat of Decorah. Decorah has a population of 8,125 residents, is located at the intersection of IA 9 and US 52, and is the largest community in Winneshiek County. Decorah is only about 15 miles south of the Minnesota border. The city has a total area of 7.04 square miles of which, 7.01 square miles is land and 0.03 square miles is water. The Upper Iowa River flows through the city en route to the Upper Mississippi River. The first courthouse was completed in 1858 at Decorah, but after much deliberation, a new building was occupied in November 1904 and is still in use today. Decorah was the site of a Winnebago village around 1840. Decorah is reportedly named for the Winnebago leader Waukon Decorah, who was an U.S. ally during the Black Hawk War of 1832. During the 1850s and 1860s, Decorah grew quickly as dams and mills were built to harness water power at Dunning’s spring and other streams. Each July Decorah is the host of Nordic Fest, a celebration of Norwegian culture with ethnic dancing, food, and music. Decorah is also the home of the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum, the largest museum in the country devoted to one single immigrant group. Until 1972, one of the largest Norwegian language newspapers in the nation was published in Decorah, the Decorah Posten. Something unique to Decorah is the Impact Crater. About 470 million years ago, an asteroid as big as a city block smashed into what is now Decorah. The impact dug
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a crater nearly four miles wide that now lies beneath the town. The Decorah crater lay undiscovered until recently because almost none of it is above ground. Instead, it is filled by an uncommon variety of shale that formed after an ancient seaway sluiced into the crater, depositing sediment and an array of strange animals that hardened into fossils. The Raptor Resource Center is also located in Decorah. Each year they host a livestreamed webcam of nesting bald eagles. There are many choices for food and drink in the Decorah area, like Old Armory BBQ at 421 W Water Street with its casual dining atmosphere, and all items are made in house and served fresh daily. If Italian is more your speed, then Dolce Vita is located at 2149 Twin Springs Rd, just minutes from historic downtown Decorah. Dolce Vita serves mouthwatering pastas, salads, soups, and sandwiches that are sure to please. Those PIVO brews we mentioned earlier in Calmar can be found at T-Bock’s Sports Bar on west Water Street, and delicious coffee drinks and espresso can’t be beat at Magpie Coffeehouse just a couple doors down from T-Bock’s. Winneshiek certainly did not disappoint! There were historical, culinary, and natural wonders aplenty in the northeast corner of our great state. So much more we will have to return and experience I am sure. While we loved our time in Winneshiek, we inevitably must move on, so next time join us when we travel to the opposite side of the state and investigate what Woodbury County can bring to our pages! Sources available upon request. Melanie J Schwarte melanie@thunderroadsiowa.com
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The Greene County Motorcycle Charity (GCMC) is looking forward to the 10th Annual Bell Tower Festival motorcycle events on Saturday, June 9th as it continues to grow in popularity, drawing participants from all corners of Iowa and near-by states. In addition to the traditional Poker Run and Cycle Show in Jefferson, IA the committee is excited to announce another new guided tour ride in their series. The inaugural event entitled the “Flask & Cask” will depart Jefferson at 9:30 am. Join this unique q gguided motorcycle tour ride to the new Carrolll Brewing Company, Iowa Legendary Rye, and Santa anta Maria Winery in Carroll. Short tours will be provided at each location along with h the opportunity to sample their products. ts. Participants will get a special edition nd an t-shirt, a limited edition coin, lunch, and n opportunity to draw a poker hand upon return to Jefferson. Another favorite is back again this year, the “Bonnie & Clyde Tour Ride”, and will depart Jefferson at 9:30 am. This guided tour ride destination is Dexter, IA where riders will hear the real story about the biggest shootout in Dallas County history from one of the ort finest local orators, Rod Stanley. A short here walking tour of the downtown area where Bonnie & Clyde bought food, clothes and ies medicine will be available. Opportunities will be available to visit the Dexter museum and the scene of the bank robbery in Stuart. Participants will get a special edition t-shirt, limited edition coin and lunch at the Dexter Roundhouse. Tour ride participants will then return to the festival beverage garden to draw a poker hand and get their special limited edition coins sponsored by Trophies Plus of Breda, IA. The cost per person for the all tour rides is $40.00. The 10th annual Bell Tower Festival Poker Run will travel to the south in 2018, taking riders on a 95 mile journey with stops in Jamaica (Just One More), Guthrie Center (IncrediBowl), Menlo (Short’s Place), Stuart (Ruby’s Bar & Grill), and Panora (Owl’s Nest) before returning to Jefferson’s Spare Time Lanes. Registration can be done in advance online at www.btfcycle.info, as well as on site Saturday, June 9th from 8 am to 12 pm. The entry fee
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will be $20 per participant, and will include a Poker Run T-shirt (while supplies last), raffle ticket and a poker hand. Additional T-shirts and challenge coins will be available for purchase as well. Riders may leave anytime after 8 am, with last bike out by noon. All riders must be back by 5 pm. Poker Run prizes of $250 (1st place), $125 (2nd place) and $75 (3rd place) will be awarded to the best hands drawn. A benefit silent auction is planned throughout the day and a live auction in the beverage garden at 5:30 pm. A free m motorcycle show will be included with the act activities. Registration will be from 9 am to 1 ppm, with the show starting at noon and endin ending at 4:00. Show classes will include Metr Metric, Vintage (pre-1990’s), Peoples’ Choice, Trike, Custom, Bagger, and Late Model. Plaques are to be awarded to winners of each class when the judging concludes at 4 pm. Special GCMC charity fundraising raffle tickets are available for a cost of $10 each or 3 for $25, while 200 ttickets last. Items on the raffle include an awesome Henry 22 Golden Boy rifle, a pair of VIP concert tickets to a concert of your choice at Jefferson’s Wild Rose Casino & Events Center, aand a $100 gift card at Hy-Vee. Jus Just One More of Jamaica is the 2018 Challe Challenge Coin sponsor and will provide specia special promotions for Poker Run coin hholders. Other valued sponsors this year include: T-shirt sponsor Scranton Manufacturing (New Way Trucks/McLaughlin International / New Way Ford), Gold sponsors Carroll Cycle Center, 209 Main/Tool Bar, Dan’s Spicy Barbecue Sauce, Neese Inc., Hamilton Redi-Mix, Jefferson A&W, Spare Time Lanes, Midland Power Cooperative, Midwest Cycle Authority, and Trophies Plus. Silver sponsors - Oly’s Corner, Hog House/ Lucas Oil, Pemble Digging & Drainage Service, Rueter’s Co, Jefferson Hy-Vee, Wild Rose Casino, and Shadran Industrial. As always, proceeds for this year’s event will go to the Raccoon Valley Kiwanis Aktion Club of Jefferson. Last year the Aktion Club was the recipient of $1,500 and with your help, even more will be available in 2018. More information about the Bell Tower Festival Motorcycle events can be found at www.btfcycle.info along with registration for the Guided Tour Rides and Poker Run. We hope to see you in Jefferson!
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One of the h greatest things hi about b spring i and d summer is planning those, GET THE HELL OUT OF TOWN, CLUTCHES OUT AND LETS SEE SOME SHIT, kind of trips. Even just a quick overnight ride a couple of towns away, seeing some different roads, grabbing wings at a place where NOBODY knows you by name can recharge the batteries and give you something to look forward to.
used d to fil film a movie i promoted d via i Craigslist i li iis a must. If you are going to take off and hit one of the great summer riding spots for a day or more and you are going to do so with a new rider or group, try and get some throttle time in beforehand. There are several reasons for this, but safety should be paramount. Can you ride in that group and feel comfortable? Do they ride with the separation you are used to? Is speed an issue? Do they make stupid choices? Can I am sure we aren’t that much different when it comes down they stay in their own damn lane? Get some time together leading up to departure, we are constantly double checking and if you can’t get comfortable, maybe travelling together our gear, going over the bike, refreshing our favorite isn’t a smart option. We have all ridden with somebody weather app over and over for not only our place but the that lags way behind, or somebody that cannot maintain a way we are headed. Oh, speaking of which, I get asked this constant speed or weaves or whatever. It is not worth it if quite a bit as a weather geek that isn’t as ashamed of it as you can’t enjoy the ride and are always worrying about the I maybe should be. Hey, I used to be a storm chaser, once other bikes. I really can’t stress this enough! I have been that shit gets into your blood, you can’t shake it. Anyway, on simple poker runs where midway through we decided it I get asked a great deal what weather apps are the best. I would be best to peel off for many of those reasons. Another don’t know “the best” but I can tell you the app that many thing to know is how long will the group want to ride weather geeks (including the folks that do weather for a between stops. Make sure this is discussed before you head living) use…Weather Pro. You like something else, that’s out! Some may want to ride about 100 miles and stop for a cool, but when people ask me, I tell them to check that one break, others may run hard until it’s fuel time, sometimes out because it just seems to have the best forecasting tools there might be a town 75 miles away that has a great ice of any I have looked into. Also, the single best radar is cream shop some want to hit but others may not be aware of NOAA High Def. Get that and use it if you are ever gonna and would blissfully power on. Have those conversations, travel. It’s the National Weather Service’s platform and it we are not invading other countries. We are out having a has a GREAT satellite overlay that will follow you and it great time riding across America on bikes. The purest form automatically finds the nearest radar tower. Good stuff. of freedom we have left, it’s about the journey and making it safely to the destination. Oh yea, getting ready for a trip. See, I get excited and lose my focus all the damn time when it comes to stuff like that. So, you have a route planned, you have people that you Objects that blink and make noise. MMMM….chrome. know are going to be cool to ride with, sights to be seen, lodging is good. Now, think about something else that The spousal unit and I love to escape when we can, even for seemed silly when I first thought about it all those years a quick two or three day adventure and it’s more enjoyable ago. I laughed mostly because I DIDN’T think about it when we do it with others. But travelling with others can until it was too late. also be a huge pain in the ass. Working to get everybody on the same page, agreeing on a route, finding lodging, judging Do I want to eat breakfast with this person? roads on the riding skill set, and so many other variables come into play. It’s best to just leave it to one person to do Sounds so simple it’s stupid, I know, but think about this. the planning, have others put their faith in that person and Having lunch is one thing. Having dinner is another, maybe go. Sometimes. rocking out to a concert or burning up the back roads on some killer twisties that make you wanna turn around and If you ride with the same group of people, you achieve a do it all over again…these things are all awesome and certain level of comfort. You know how they are going to enjoyable. But think about this as if it were dating. A date ride. What level of expectations there are when it comes is a date and you can have a wonderful time, and even if to eating out, lodging, and how hard or tentatively they that date ends up in having a little sumthin sumthin (if you will ride. Two quick points that I have come to know over know what I mean) when you first start dating. After that the years that are very important if you are taking a trip moment, somebody goes home and you wake up the next with others. Number one, make sure you know how hard day with a smile on your face ready to face the day ahead. they can or can’t ride. Number two, what is their level of comfort with lodging. Some people are fine flopping *** disclaimer that I have to add from time to time*** anywhere, as long as it’s clean, and they are good. Others Since my mom and kids always read this, that was never might have an increased level of wants, needs, and desires the case with the Spousal Unit, I only kissed her, gently on as well as the location where they are going to spend the the check, on the porch, that was well lit, then went home. night. Trust me, a road trip with a person that has a shitty We never spent the night together prior to the blessings hotel night makes for a long goddamn day. Find out what of our matrimony. Yes, I understand the kids are older everybody expects and plan accordingly. The older I get, the than the years we’ve been legally wed, not sure how that nicer place I would rather stay. No Tell Motel might have happened but I was told there would be no math. **** end been great in my formative years, but in the era of bed bugs disclaimer*** we live in, a room that was not recently a crime scene or cont. page 36 34 - TRMI MAY 2018
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There is something about that breakfast the next day that can be a game changer. If the company the night before wore you out, then you are stuck there to face them first thing in the morning…before the coffee kicks in…and it can be challenging. If you have friends that are chill as hell, comfortable with just being who they are, and can tolerate you in the same situation, then you have a riding group you should cherish!
Don’t let the spring and summer go without remembering how cold and shitty this winter was. Plan an adventure, go to a new place, check out some new roads, and tell us about it here at TRMI. As always, have fun out there this year. But before you let that clutch out remember to ask yourself, “do I want to share a pot of coffee with this person tomorrow?” Or at the very least, do they have a Greyhound station?
I have only had that “breakfast” moment happen one time, but it was enough. It wasn’t even because of my buddy, but rather his current “special lady” and man was she freaking special. So special, we looked up to see if there was a way we could ship her ass home on a bus. Alas, there was not but at least they hotel had endless bacon.
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Todd “Crash” Davis
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This month TRMI would like to thank Todd d Green from Boone, Iowa for preserving ourr freedoms as Americans. Todd was a member er of the United States Air Force from December ber of 1986 until February of 1990. During his time me in the Air Force, Todd was responsible for Strategic ategic Aircraft Maintenance, working in the inspections ctions branch where he completed both inspectionss and lubrication; reaching a rank of E-3 during his is service period. Other than an uncle who had served in the United States Navy, no other members of his family had chosen a path of military service. Todd began his military career at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas which was swiftly followed by AIT at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas. Todd continued his service at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas where he was also a member of the base mobility team. As a part of the mobility team, Todd was able to set up bases for operations when emergency need for aircraft service occurred. Probably the coolest thing he experienced while in Kansas was when he got the opportunity of a lifetime and was allowed to fly a KC 135-R Stratotanker with a few of his fellow airmen. The story was more than entertaining to hear, and produced a memory of his military service that I am sure he will never forget. Todd started his riding career as a kid on a 1970’s Honda 80, moved up to a 88 Yamaha Midnight Maximum 750, but now has the pleasure of scooting around on a 2001 Electra Glide Standard that he bought from Zylstra H-D in Ames. Todd says that he is glad to be back in the riding community, after being out of the scene due to sports obligations, followed by military demands, and later on a wife that didn’t really dig the two wheel lifestyle… Todd is happy to say that he 40 - TRMI MAY 2018
trade the wife for his Electra Glide, and he traded once again enjoys the freedom of the road and comra comradery of his riding buddies. Todd ha has plans to upgrade his bike in a lot of ways. He is look looking at a new sound system including new stereo and sspeakers, adding a trailer hitch and a rider back rest fo for added comfort on those long hauls. And some cosmetic improvements, like a new inner and outer fairing, dash tank cover, and a fresh new paint job. Sounds like plans for a complete makeover for the Electra Glide to me! Todd has a circle of riding buddies that continues to grow each year. He tries to hit as many summer events and rides as possible, but one ride in particular occupies much of his time year round. If you are a regular reader of TRMI then you may have already recognized Todd as an active member of The Sleeping Angels board. Todd is actually the Executive Vice President of the foundation. Sleeping Angels sponsors a Fun Run every year, and Todd has graced the cover of our mag, as recently as last month! So as you can imagine, this run holds a special place in Todd’s busy schedule, and heart. This year will be the 7th year for the run, and it is on Saturday, May 5th. Sleeping Angels is a non-profit organization, and this fun run helps them to raise money to help with medical and/ or funeral expenses incurred for families in our great state of Iowa who have lost a child. It is always a great time, and is definitely a great cause, so be sure to sign up and join Todd and the rest of the Foundation on May 5th!
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From all of us here at TRMI, we thank you for your service and your dedication to the Sleeping Angels Foundation as well! Melanie J. Schwarte Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook
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Distracted Driving – The AMA is working orking to ensure that distracted driving remains a priority in the federal highway reauthorization bill by ensuring the bill provides money to fund anti-distracted-driving campaigns across the country. In addition, the AMA is working at the state level to ensure distracted driving is a primary traffic violation and state agencies are actively working to combat the problem. The AMA supports state legislation that would specify that distracted or inattentive behavior that contributes to a crash would subject the vehicle operator to enhanced penalties, similar to aggravating circumstances such as operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
tto-vehicle communication systems are designed. At the same time, we are ensuring that privacy protections for motorcyclists are recognized and that the wireless communications systems are secure. Tolls – The AMA is watchful because declining or stagnant federal transportation funds may spur the institution of new tolls. Tolls are potentially hazardous to motorcyclists because they motivate larger vehicle operators to spurn interstates and highways and travel instead on smaller roads not designed for high traffic volume – roads frequently traveled by motorcyclists. In addition, tolls based on the number of axles on a vehicle penalize motorcyclists by charging them the same amount as cars, pickup trucks and SUVs, despite the motorcycle’s smaller profile and lighter weight.
E15 – The AMA opposes the further distribution of E15 in the marketplace, because it can damage motorcycle engines and fuel systems and may void manufacturers’ warranties. While activity at the federal government Reprogramming Motorcycle-Safety Funds – The level has slowed, E15 still is being introduced into new markets. In May, Missouri became the 13th state to allow AMA opposes the redirection of funds dedicated to motorcycle awareness and rider education – usually E15. generated from motorcycle registrations – from being channeled to programs unrelated to motorcycle safety. Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints – The AMA opposes motorcycle-only checkpoints. We believe they are Continued Ban on Federal => State Lobbying – discriminatory and ineffective. Funds used to conduct Currently there is a ban on the National Highway Traffic motorcycle-only checkpoints are better spent on rider Safety Administration’s lobbying of state governments. education, motorist awareness and efforts to combat The AMA advocates extending this ban to all federal distracted driving. Checkpoints already are restricted agencies, including the Consumer Product Safety by state law or judicial action in: Alaska, California, Commission. Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Virginia, Illinois, New Hampshire, Idaho, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Motorcycle Bans/Parking – The AMA is working to Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin ensure that no public roads, public parking lots or and Wyoming. Currently, motorcycle-only checkpoint parking garages specifically ban motorcycles. We legislation is being considered in Massachusetts, New believe that, as taxpayers, motorcyclists should be able Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Missouri. to access the same infrastructure as other vehicles. Lane Splitting – When done responsibly, research shows Landowner Liability – The AMA supports state laws that that lane splitting can reduce motorcycle crashes and allow private landowner’s to permit off-highway-vehicle fatalities. The AMA supports states’ active involvement riders to use their property without holding landowner’s in setting out effective regulations for responsible lane liable. States that have limited landowner’s liability splitting. for this purpose have more vibrant OHV communities with more places for responsible recreation. This, in Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication – The AMA is turn, provides additional economic activity and boosts working with the U.S. Department of Transportation to revenue for small businesses. ensure that motorcycles are considered when vehicle-
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soning was in the loin or the breading or maybe some of both but there are none that I have had that hold a candle to it!!! (And that includes many of the “best” out there) The onion rings I would rank as among the sweetest I have ever tasted!! I could have eaten a bucket of them by myself and would have begged for more!!! (Maybe ideas for a food challenge… the Bucket List???) And of course the pie!!!!! I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t share with you the gloriously delicious creations that are baked by Denise (according to the menu)!!!! I don’t know who Denise is but she should be sitting on a throne and
Menlo Café 502 Sherman St. Menlo, IA 50164 641-524-2871 Tuesday – Sunday 6AM – 2PM, Monday Closed Breakfast: Tuesday – Saturday 6AM – 11AM, Sunday 6AM – 10AM I love living in Iowa! Especially rural Iowa! The people are friendly, pretty much everybody waves, and smiles are everywhere you look! I think the thing I like most about living in rural Iowa are the small towns. Most of them have at least one café (depending on the size of town it may also double as the bar). It’s in these small towns where you see that the saying holds true that you can find the best place to eat by the number of pickup trucks parked out front! One of these hidden treasures is the Menlo Café in (yes, you guessed it!!) Menlo. Inside is just what you imagine when you think of a small town café. A collection of tables and booths with napkin wrapped silverware and water glasses at each seating position and a pitcher of water on each table and booth. Just to show how popular this place is, on our way to our booth our waitress asked if we needed menus or did we know what we wanted to order! Can you say “repeat customers”?!?!?! I can assure you this is a well-earned reputation!!! The menu may not be huge and widely diversified but each and everything on it is a cut above!!! Take the award winning Breaded Tenderloin for instance. While it may not be the biggest I have ever had I can say unequivocally it is the BEST I have EVER had!!!! I couldn’t tell if the sea44 - TRMI MARCH 2018
wearing a crown because she is undoubtedly the Queen of pie baking!!!! If you journey out
to see the famous Freedom Rock north of Greenfield cruise back east a bit on White Pole Road to Menlo and check out the Menlo Café! A couple of notes to enhance your stop, make it on a Saturday because that’s the only day Denise’s pies are served and if you like French Silk you better get there early because it goes fast!!!! (Especially if I beat you there!!!! ROFL!!!!) Menlo Café, worth the ride from anywhere!!! Check them out on Facebook and give them a “Like”! Until next time… Ride Safe and Eat Hearty! Craig & Lynnette P.S. If you know of someplace to check out in your neck of the woods shoot me an email at craig@thunderroadsiowa. com
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o While riding my Harley, I swerved to avoid hitting a deer, lost control and landed in a ditch, severely banging my head. Dazed and confused I crawled out of the ditch to the edge of the road when a shiny new convertible pulled up with h a very beautiful woman who asked, “Are you okay?”
3) You’ve been married three times and still have the same in-laws 4) You think a woman who is out of your league bowls on a different night. 5) You wonder how service stations keep their rest re rest-rooms st-r st -roo -r so clean.
As I looked up, I noticed she was wearing ear arin in ng a low cut blouse with cleavage to diee fo for. for... r...... r. “I’m okay I think,” I replied as I pulled myself up to the side of the car to get a closer look.
6) S Someone o in your family died right after sayi sa saying, yii ‘Hold my beer and watch this.’ 7) Y You think Dom Perignon is a Mafia leader. 8) Y Your wife’s hairdo was once ruined by a cce ceiling eil ilin in fan. in
She said, “Get in and I’ll take you home ome so I can clean and bandage that nasty y scrape on your head.”
9) Your junior prom offered day care.
“That’s nice of you,” I answered, “but I don’t think my wife 10) You think the last words of the Star-Spangled Banner will like me doing that!” are ‘Gentlemen, start your engines.’ “Oh, come now, I’m a nurse,” she insisted. “I need to see if you have any more scrapes and then treat them properly.” Well, she was really pretty and very persuasive. Being sort of shaken and weak, I agreed, but repeated, “I’m sure my wife won’t like this.”
11) You lit a match in the bathroom and your house exploded, right off its wheels.
We arrived at her place which was just a few miles away and, after a couple of cold beers and the bandaging, I thanked her and said, “I feel a lot better, but I know my wife is going to be really upset so I’d better go now.” “Don’t be silly!” she said with a smile, while unbuttoning her blouse exposing the most beautiful set of boobs I’ve ever seen. “Stay for a while. She won’t know anything. By the way, where is she?”
13) You have to go outside to get something from the fridge.
12) The Halloween pumpkin on your porch has more teeth than your spouse.
14) One of your kids was born on a pool table. 15) You need one more hole punched in your card to get a freebie at the House of Tattoos. 16) You can’t get married to your sweetheart because there’s a law against it.
“Still in the ditch with my Harley, I guess.” 17) You think loading the dishwasher means getting your ************************************************ wife drunk You’re An EXTREME Redneck When:
************************************************
1) You let your 14-year-old daughter smoke at the dinner table in front of her kids.
What do you call an alligator detective? An investi-gator. ************************************************
2) The Blue Book value of your truck goes up and down depending on how much gas is in it.
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Two good ol’ boys in a Arkansas trailer park were sitting around talking one afternoon over a cold beer after getting off work at the local horse trailer manufacturing plant. After a while the 1st guy says to the 2nd, “If’n I was to sneak over to your trailer Saturday & make love to your wife while you was off huntin’ and she got pregnant and had a baby, would that make us kin?” The 2nd guy crooked his head sideways for a minute, scratched his head and squinted his eyes thinking real hard about the question. Finally, he says, “Well, I don’t know about kin, but it sure would make us even.” ************************************************ After picking her son up from school one day, the mother asks him what he did at school. The kid replies, “I had sex with my teacher.” She gets so mad that when they get home, she orders him to go straight to his room. When the father returns home that evening, the mother angrily tells him the news of what their son had done. As the father hears the news, a huge grin spreads across his face. He walks to his son’s room and asks him what happened at school, the son tells him, “I had sex with my teacher.” The father tells the boy that he is so proud of him, and he is going to reward him with the bike he has been asking for. On the way to the store, the dad asks his son if he would like to ride his new bike home. His son responds, “No thanks Dad, my butt still hurts. ************************************************ A few months after his parents were divorced, little Johnny passed by his mom’s bedroom and saw her rubbing her body and moaning, “I need a man, I need a man!” Over the next couple of months, he saw her doing this several times. One day, he came home from school and heard her moaning. When he peeked into her bedroom, he saw a man on top of her. Little Johnny ran into his room, took off his clothes, threw himself on his bed, started stroking himself, and moaning, “Ohh, I need a bike! I need a bike!” ************************************************ A little boy caught his mom and dad having sex. After, he asked, “What were you and daddy doing?” The mom said, “We were baking a cake.” A few days later, the little boy asked his mom, “Were you and daddy baking a cake?” She said yes, and asked him how he knew. He answered, “Because I licked the frosting off the couch.”
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2018 Motorcycle Cannonball Route
September 6th, 2018. Portland, Maine Registration
September 15th 2018 Stage #8 Spirit Lake, IA to Pierre, SD
September 7th, 2018 Portland, Maine Registration, Practice Run, Tech Inspection and Banquet
September 16th 2018 Stage #9 Pierre, SD to Sturgis, SD
September 8th, 2018 Motorcycle Cannonball Official Start
September 17th 2018 Day Off Sturgis, SD
September 8th 2018 Stage #1 Portland, Maine to Keene, NH September 9th 2018 Stage #2 Keene, NH to Binghamton, NY September 10th 2018 Stage #3 Binghamton, NY to Jamestown, NY September 11th 2018 Stage #4 Jamestown, NY to Bowling Green, OH September 12th 2018 Stage #5 Bowling Green, OH to Bourbonnais, IL September 13th 2018 Stage #6 Bourbonnais, IL to Anamosa, IA (National Motorcycle Museum) September 14th 2018 Stage #7 Anamosa, IA to Spirit Lake, IA 52 - TRMI MAY 2018
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September 18th 2018 Stage #10 Sturgis, SD to Billings, MT September 19th 2018 Stage #11 Billings, MT to Great Falls, MT September 20th 2018 Stage #12 Great Falls, MT to Kalispell, MT September 21st 2018 Stage #13 Kalispell, MT to Spokane Valley, WA September 22nd 2018 Stage #14 Spokane Valley, WA to The Dalles, OR September 23rd 2018 Stage #15 Grand Finale The Dalles, OR to Portland, OR From: motorcyclecannonball.com
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The Biker Lawyers You’ve seen us here, in Thunder Roads of Iowa, many times over the last few years. If you’ve attended rallies, bike nights, swap meets, or hill climbs in Iowa, you have probably met us handing out koozies and bandanas or playing bags and loud music. We represent injured bikers against faceless corporations who try to play with a stacked deck. Our job is beating the insurance companies at their own game by taking the fight to them. Our work is lawyer work, but our community is the people who live on two wheels. We’re the Biker Lawyers, and now there are five of us: Pete, Tony, Cam, Graig, and Dan.
That’s how the rest of us became involved, one by one, in joining the Biker Lawyers. We weren’t interesting in being weekend warriors, dressing up in suits Monday through Friday. We had no desire to chum around with insurance adjustors who spend their days trying to deny coverage to people in crisis. We didn’t want to sell our souls making rich companies richer. We wanted to fight the Man, not be his tool. We wanted to be a force for good in the lives of real people. We wanted to live with dignity, and help others live with dignity. As members of the Biker Lawyers, that’s exactly what we do.
Pete started this firm because he wanted to unify his work with his lifestyle as a biker. By meeting the legal needs of bikers all over Iowa, Pete was able help his community of fellow bikers while racking up miles and traveling the state. It was a new idea. Most lawyers stay put in their own towns and avoid getting on the road. For us bikers, staying put is the opposite of how we want to live. While other lawyers were putting on loafers, Pete was putting on miles. When other lawyers spent all summer at the country club, Pete was hitting the highways and rallies. And when Pete walked into trial against insurance company lawyers, he knew what they didn’t know: He knew the road, and the dangers it holds for bikers. More importantly, he knew how to make a jury understand the unique circumstances that bikers face, not just when we ride, but also when we can’t.
When we take an injured biker’s case, we don’t charge a fee unless we get that biker paid. We wouldn’t want it any other way. Because all five of us are bikers, in every case we take, we can see a bit of ourselves. We face the same dangers that every biker faces, and we know that any biker killed or injured on the road could just as easily be one of us. When we go to work for an injured biker, we aren’t just fighting for a client. We’re fighting for a member of our community.
Riding isn’t a hobby for us bikers. Riding is part of who we are. We’ve all seen tattoos that say, “Live to Ride / Ride to Live.” Have you ever seen one that says, “Live to Tennis / Tennis to Live”? Of course not. Most people, when they’re injured and can’t get out and do what they want, they just do something else. A person who jogs can take up bicycling. It won’t be so bad. Someone who likes to waterski can switch to fishing or swimming. It’s no big deal. For us bikers, though, a riding season missed is like a year lost. There is no substitute for the freedom of the open road. Anyone who rides doesn’t need to be told that. But a lawyer who doesn’t ride, a lawyer who isn’t a biker, will never understand what a jury needs to know when that jury is deciding a biker’s fate. 56 - TRMI MAY 2018
We are active members of ABATE. We assist the Confederation of Clubs. C We lobby lawmakers W to make sure they don’t fforget us bikers. We’re aat motorcycle events all oover Iowa and, starting this year, we’ll be in th Minnesota as well. M When you see us, stop W oon by. This year we’re ggiving away bandanas aand koozies like we have in the past, and we’re aalso giving away bottle oopeners and lighters. We’re always looking to W meet new people, visit with our friends, and play bags with any challengers. We’re the Biker Lawyers, and if you’re out and about, you’ll probably find us everywhere. We’re here for the party. We’re here for the ride. We’re here to help. We’re here because we want to be, and we’re here for good. Ride easy. Cameron Leehey Photo: Credit 3ChipMedia.com Shannon Appleby
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To my fellow motorcyclist, my name is Victor and I would like to take a moment to tell you about A.B.A.T.E of Iowa and the impact it has had on my life. I have been riding motorcycles since I was very young and growing up I watched District 11 of the organization do all sorts of things in our communities to help raise motorcycle awareness and share knowledge of the importance of sharing the road. The amazing thing is at 34 years old, I can say that I have had the honor the last few years of being the coordinator of the district I watched growing up. I’ve been given the honor of continuing what many riders before me started. In watching my neighbor as well as my Sunday school teacher running the district during my childhood I was shown what it was to be a leader and I was also able to witness firsthand the compassion and love for motorcycles these folks had, it was one of the most moving things I can remember from that age. I can still remember my first ride on an actual street bike, just picture a lil fat kid riding a Honda rebel all joking aside I was terrified to lay down somebody else’s motorcycle but at that very moment I knew in my y heart it was for me. Being a motorcyclist free on the open road was for me. In the years rs to follow I moved a couple of times to different erent states continuing my love for riding and d continuing to meet others riders and gain knowledge wledge along the way.
I soon became an officer and really started to grow on my legislative knowledge thanks to our state legislative officer and her husband who showed an amazing amount of support in helping me learn. I will have to admit I was one of those that thought my vote didn’t count until I got involved with the organization. I absolutely love that my young children are fully involved with this organization and their love for the motorcycle community is much like my own they can’t hardly get ready fast enough for meetings or events, If I had to say they had a favorite part of the year or event, I would have to say the annual toy run we host would take the ticket. To hear my children get so excited to give back to our communities makes me feel beyond blessed. I have to fight back tears every time we have a district ride and the kids are absolutely going crazy about all the bikes and seeing all of our motorcycle family. I realize that our goal and mission must start with the youth giving them the proper knowledge and education of the road is key not just for motorcyclist but for all motorist m the same so that we can safely just th share the road ro way.
My journey with A.B.A.T.E has been great and what I mean by that is for me it has been growth not only for becoming a a journey of grow more knowledgea knowledgeable rider but also as a father and a man. The camaraderie and brotherhood I have come to find with this organization is like one I’ve I always had a burning in my heart that made me feel never had. The hard working and dedicated people of as if there were more I could do to benefit myself A.B.A.T.E have inspired me to do the best possible job I and fellow riders both seasoned and new, being a can for the motorcycle community with my family by my professional truck driver I’ve seen many different things side. I can proudly say I look forward to continuing my while on the road some good and some that caused journey of growth with my brothers and sisters by my concern for what seemed to be a major wedge between side as we continue to educate and raise awareness for your everyday motorist and motorcyclist. all motorcyclists. Thank you for your time and remember “Don’t Hesitate to Educate” making a difference starts In my last move to Iowa which seems like so long ago I with you. began to ride more regular and started to attend local district meetings. It felt as if I had never left and the District 11 Coordinator importance of doing my part became even more real. Victor Rodriguez/Brown Sugar
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Apr 28 Apr 28 Apr 28 Apr 28 Apr 29 Apr 29 May 3-5 May 4 May 4-5 May 5 May 5 May 5 May 5 May 5 May 6 May 6 May 5 May 11 May 12 May 12 May 12 May 12-13 May 19 May 19 May 19 May 19 May 19 May 20 May 24-27 May 27 May 27 Jun 2 Jun 2 Jun 2 Jun 2 Jun 3 Jun 3 Jun 5 Jun 8-10 Jun 9 Jun 9 Jun 9 Jun 9 Jun 9 Jun 9 Jun 9 Jun 9 Jun 9 Jun 9 Jun 9 Jun 9 Jun 10 Jun 15-16 Jun 16 Jun 16
Spring Open House & Demo Rides Carroll HD Carroll Bike Blessing Big Barn HD Des Moines Cancer Sucks Benefit Run for Cindy Ruth Mount Pleasant Spring Hog Roast Zylstra HD Ames SGT Kearney Memorial Motorcycle Run Emerson Blessing of the Bikes Dublin Bay Ames Rally in the Hills LHHD Pacific Junction Rev It Up for Awareness Rally and Ride Davenport Vintage Torque Fest Dubuque Sleeping Angels Fun Run Boone 2nd Annual Boji Run Sioux City Two Wheel Trauma for Emergency Responders Marshalltown Run For The Son Bike Blessing and Ride Burlington International Female Ride Day Bike Blessing Northwest Christian Church Council Bluffs 12th Annual Blessing of the Bikes Blue Grass Rev It Up for Awareness Davenport Motorcycle Safety Forum Des Moines Heels on Wheels Women’s Ride Carroll HD 4th Annual Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Fun Run Council Bluffs Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association Charity Ride Des Moines 38th ABATE of Sioux Falls Motorcycle EXPO Sioux Falls Mean Machine “Spring Smoke-out” Elkhart BBQ Open House Route 65 HD Indianola B.A.C.A. Annual 100 Mile Ride ALL CHAPTERS Chrome for Kids Ride Benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Cedar Rapids ABATE D5 Spring Fling Run Cedar Rapids Iowa Thunder Ride Des Moines Redneck Revival Conesville Midway Tavern’s Neal Denny Memorial Poker Run Soldier 13th Annual SGT Dan Sesker Memorial Poker Run Ogden Kimballton Bike and Car Show & Shine Kimballton Harley-Davidson of Carroll Rock –N- Ride Carroll CVMA 39-4 Bike Wash Wieblers HD Davenport Garwin Legion Riders Post 71 Bike Night Garwin 69th Annual Motorcycle Hill Climb Anamosa ALR POST 166 9th Annual Veterans Benefit Ride Shellsburg IA Water Environment Assoc Benefit Ride Waterloo ABATE D3 Campout Littlefield Park Exira 10th Annual Bell Tower Festival Poker Run, Tour Rides, & Bike Show Jefferson F&J Racing 23rd Annual Blessing of the Bikes Marshalltown Open House & Pig Roast The Vic Shop Desoto Ride With Levi Keokuk 5th Annual Seu-Mo’s Memorial Ride Grinnell 3rd Annual Journey for Hope Poker Run The Buck Snort Council Bluffs Pigs For Bubba Ride and Benefit Auction Sac City Audubon Fire & Rescue Association Poker Run Audubon Joni’s Roast and Ride Big Barn HD Des Moines Buck Grove Bust Poker Run Buck Grove IWMC 11th Annual “Support the Badge Ride” McCann’s Tap Des Moines Firefighter/EMS Appreciation Day Zylstra HD Ames Firefighter Fundraiser Ride Zylstra HD Ames Rumble In The Sand Outlaw Street Drags Conesville Roar Into Harlan Cannonball Fundraiser Run Harlan American Legion Riders Post 46 1st Annual Heroes Ride Marshalltown
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Jun 16 Jun 16 Jun 16 Jun 22-23 Jun 23 Jun 23-24 Jun 23-24 Jun 23 Jun 23 Jun 23 Jun 23 Jun 23 Jun 24 Jun 30 Jun 30 Jul 5-7 Jul 6-8 Jul 7 Jul 7 Jul 7 Jul 13-14 Jul 14 Jul 14 Jul 14 Jul 14 Jul 21 Jul 21 Jul 21 Jul 21 Jul 24 Jul 28 Jul 28 Jul 28 Jul 28 Jul 27-28 Jul 29 Aug 3-12 Aug 4 Aug 5 Aug 9 Aug 11 Aug 11 Aug 12 Aug 17-19 Aug 18 Aug 18 Aug 25 Aug 25 Aug 25 Aug 25
Hometown Heroes Memorial Run Rockwell City BBQ Open House Route 65 HD Indianola Wind Bags Motorcycle Team Relay for Life Fun Run Atlantic ABATE D14 Baldy Party, Rodeo, & Memorial Ride What Cheer Ride To National Motorcycle Museum Multiple Points across Iowa J&P Cycles Iowa Rally Anamosa 8th Annual Vintage Rally National Motorcycle Museum Anamosa IAFF Local 4906 MDA/LHHD Poker Run Pacific Junction Ride to Fight Suicide Colona, IL Sons of American Legion Post 73 Bike Night Tama Annual Black Jack Run American Legion Post 2 Council Bluffs Gabby’s Second Annual CMA Motorcycle Ride Fairfield Bertha Biker Dog Memorial Run Altoona STD Run Alden Chasin’ Tails Fun Run Roland ABATE of Iowa Freedom Rally Algona Gears & Gasoline Rally Farley 11th Annual Freeman Ride Avoca KIOA 93.3 Vets of Valor Ride Zylstra HD Ames Hot Rods at Riverfest and Car and Bike Show Bellevue, NE CVMA 39-3 Annual Patriot Ride Elk Port “Blue Haired Old Ladies, Road Alligators and Tar Snakes” --What every street smart rider should know presentation by Slider Gilmore sponsored by Roar Into Harlan Remembering Jacob 5th Annual Ride and Drive Des Moines 12th Annual Angel Ride to Save the TaTas Fort Dodge 6th Annual Ride & Drive for the Girls Evansdale 5th Annual “Ride for Time” with “Friends of Mine” Baxter Goozman’s Westside Annual Fun Run Harlan BBQ Open House Route 65 HD Indianola Sturgis Pre-Game Party Zylstra HD Ames Ragbrai “Bike” Night at the Tip Top w/Zylstra HD Ames Brooke Barber Memorial Poker Run Mount Ayr Volga City River Run Volga American Legion Rider Post 46 Paws & Effect Run Marshalltown 8th Annual Solidarity Ride & Poker Run Metro HD Cedar Rapids CVMA 39-1 Annual Patriot Ride and Rally Freedom Park Algona Low-Key MC Bikini Bike Wash Des Moines South Dakota biker gathering 39-4 CVMA SPC Jordan M. Byrd Tribute to Our Fallen Memorial Ride Davenport B.A.C.A. Kids Day Des Moines Hot August Night Car, Truck, Motorcycle, and Tractor Show Jefferson AtlanticFest Ride In Bike Show Atlantic CVMA 39-2 Annual Patriot Ride Cedar Rapids Klondike Car,Tractor,Truck & Motorcycle Show Manilla 14th Annual BTW Trike In Kellogg BBQ Open House Route 65 HD Indianola Cancer Sucks Car, Truck, and Bike Show Council Bluffs 3rd Annual Shayla Bee Black Tie Black Leather Affair Okoboji Classic Cars B.A.C.A. of Central Iowa Bike Bash Johnson Kayla Jones Memorial Scholarship Ride Fort Dodge Poker Run in Honor of Officer Mark Burbridge Council Bluffs
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Aug 30-Sep2 Redneck Revival Conesville Sep 1-3 Midway Tavern Soldier Valley Run, BBQ, Street Dance Soldier Sep 7-8 New Hampton Motorcycle Rally New Hampton Sep 8 Broken Spokes MC Annual Children’s Hospital Ride Thirsty’s on Third Davenport Sep 8 Camp High Hopes Poker Run Fundraiser Sioux City Sep 9 Motorcycle Hill Climb Anamosa Sep 11 Burgers and Bikes Mount Pleasant Sep 13-15 St Jude Rides - Des Moines to Memphis Sep 14-16 Rumble In The Sand Outlaw Street Drags Conesville Sep 14-16 SLR Keosauqua Sep 15 WTF Fun Run Harlan
Sep 15 Sep 22 Sep 22 Sep 23 Oct 6 Oct 7 Oct 20 Oct 21 Nov 9-11 Nov 17 Dec 16
Open House & Pig Roast The Vic Shop Desoto BBQ Open House Route 65 HD Indianola New Model Open House & Demo Rides HD of Carroll Concours de Cornfield Two Rivers VMC Earlham Iron Invasion Woodstock, IL Toy Run HD of Carroll Rumble In The Sand Outlaw Street Drags Conesville ABATE D3 Toy Run Atlantic ABATE of Iowa Steam Marshalltown Fashion Show Route 65 HD Indianola ABATE D3 Christmas Party Brayton
Tuesday Desperado’s Bar and Grill Wheatland Marshalltown Legion Car & Bike Cruise (Last Tue Apr-Sep)
Wednesday The Buck Snort Neola Cadillac Jack’s Baxter 2nd Ave Bike Night Des Moines (2nd Wed May-Sep) OP Clear Lake Ride’s Bar & Grill Ft Dodge The Pour House Davenport Amigos Fort Dodge McCann’s Tap Des Moines (Every Other) Pete & Shorty’s Clarksville Latitude 41 Polk City Dinner Rides Zylstra Harley-Davidson Ames
Thursday Roar Into Harlan (3rd Thursdays) Stumpy’s Bar & Grill Duncombe The Buck Snort Oakland Firehouse Bar Sioux City Calvin Rockett Bar and Grill Marshalltown (Last Thur May-Aug) Metro HD Cedar Rapids (2nd Thursday May-Oct) Des Moines Vintage Bike Night (1st Thursday May-Sep) Edwards Bikes on the Hundred Block Council Bluffs (3rd Thursday ) R Place Kelley Eddies Tavern Sergeant Bluff (Apr-Nov) Thirsty’s on 3rd Davenport Ride Night with CMA Solid Rock Riders Sioux City (3rd Thursday Apr-Oct) Carroll Harley-Davidson Carroll (1st Thurs May-Sep)
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Friday Bike Down to I-Town Indianola (3rd Friday) Grub Run Traveling Bike Night Mean Machine Cycle Parts Elkhart (1st Fri May-Sep) Centerville Bike Nights (4th Friday May-Aug) Thunder Nights Newton (2nd Friday)
Saturday Route 65 BBQ & Open House (Sat after Bike Down to I Town) Happenings Bar Steamboat Rock (3rd Sat May-Sep) Cruise In Motorcycle Ride & Show Ruby’s in Stuart (4th Sat Jun, Jul, Aug) Ambro’s Roadhouse DeSoto (Last Sat Jun-Nov) Monroe Bike Night (2nd Sat May-Sep)
Sunday Just 1 More Jamaica (Starting in May) This list is what we have found and what has been submitted. Before heading to any event, please check weather and make sure the event is not cancelled. Not responsible for misprints and typos. If you have any other events to list, please email vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
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Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook
64 - TRMI MAY 2018
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Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook