thunder roads virginia magazine - march '07

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 2

1920 Centerville Turnpike, Suite 117-270 Virginia Beach, VA 23464

Offi ce phone: (757) 831-2264 Email:[email protected]

Website: www.thunderroads-virginia.com

OWNER / EDITOR SALES:

Kelly Werrell

WRITERS, PHOTOGRAPHERS & CONTRIBUTORSKelly Werrell, Beth Albert, Dan “Stikman” Stidham, Ed & Faye Hudnall, Cindy Mease, Garth Hines, Matt Allan, Mike “Hammer” Vecchione (local &

overseas), Randy Kidder, Reverend Rock, Rick “Preacher” Saunders, Ricky Derby, Tim Wilmoth, Dave Sutton, Stacie Bennett, Cathy “Bzgal” Clare,Chris “Tigger” Rockhill, Jeffrey Ponko, Curtis Matthews, “Little Debbie” Burnett, Melissa Ashcraft.

Special Thanks to: Warren Ells - our wonderfully talented layout guy who designs our pages & puts all the pieces together for us each month, Rod The Magnifi cent - for his killer ad designs & Troy Uhl, our webmaster, who keeps our site rockin on the web. Also many thanks to all of our readers,

advertisers & those of you out there that spread the word or pass a magazine to a friend who’s never heard of us before - You ALL are what keeps the Thunder rolling through the Mid-Atlantic!

Warren Ells, Art DirectorThunder Publishing

[email protected]

Layout & Design

Correspondents

On Eagle’s Wings Writers

Bo Albert

Garth [email protected](540) 234-9120 or (540) 746-0747

Cindy Mease

Tim Wilmoth

Reverend Rock Rick “Preacher” Saunders

Mid-Atlantic Thunder RoadsMid-Atlantic Thunder Roads

Sales / Correspondents

Mike “ Hammer” [email protected]

Phone: (757) 291-2030

Beth [email protected]

Phone: cell (804) 536-1299 offi ce (804) 265-5166

Thunder Roads Crew

Ricky Derby

[email protected].

Matt Allan

Rod the Magnifi centAd Design

Dan “Stikman” [email protected]

(866) 968-1900

Ed & Faye [email protected]

(757) 871-8840 - Ed(757) 871-8839 - Faye

Dave Sutton

Lorree & Randy Kidder [email protected]

(304) 268-3719

MySpaceMaster: Stacie Bennett

Cathy “Bzgal” Clare Chris “Tigger” Rockhill

LETTER FROM THE EDITORHey - how’s everyone doing out there? I’m sure you’re all happy

that Spring has arrived & so has the start of the 2007 riding season. We’ve had the weirdest weather ever during any Winter season - at times, the temps would be in the low 30s then soar into the 60s & 70s a couple of days later….crazy stuff! Hopefully it’s leveled off now & we can count on steady temps to ride in. We’ll start getting that extra hour of daylight to ride beginning 3/11 which is always a very welcome bonus for us, so don’t forget to set your clocks ahead one hour Saturday night, 3/10, before you hit the sack.

There’s so many rides & events starting to breakout in our calendar & still lots more to come as the fi nal details are being worked out in the clubs & organizations that are hosting these runs for local & national charities. Try to get out there to at least 1 a month if you can…it can truly make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate than us. There’s nothing better than fi ring up the bike on a Sat. or Sun morning, gathering with friends to go for a nice ride & enjoying the after ride fun to help out those in need.

Cost: Tank of gas - $5-$10; Registration Fee - $10 - $15; Enjoying an afternoon on the bikes with friends to raise $$$ for charity – PRICELESS!

Please visit Absolut Cycle Worx in Richmond on 3/17 for their party to kick off the riding season with great live music, lots of food, drink & just a real good time. Ladies, get those bikes ready for next month’s Diva Customs’ 2nd Annual “Divas Only” bike show on April 14th. Last year’s show was so incredible & everyone that attended had the best time. Even though it was “ladies only” who could enter their bikes, there were plenty of guys that came to check out all the cool rides owned by these women of the road. We’ll see you there.

We’re extremely honored that The Virginia Motorsports Park has asked us to host a new feature for this year’s Virginia Bike Fest being held April 15th. We invite you all to come on out with your bikes, take off your helmets if you wish & take a cruise on the Thunder Roads Cruise Lane from 11am – 4pm. You can take a leisure ride or ham it up & show off a little...it’s up to you – it’s all for fun & play. There will be a lot of excitement & plenty of things going on throughout the park that day with lots of races, a huge bike show, bike rodeo, burnout drags, vendors, swap meet, live music & other stage events. Our On Eagles Wings crew will be holding a Blessing Of The Bikes before the Cruise Lane starts to roll. Please join us for a great day at the park!

Hope you all enjoy our new look on all gloss – we’re still the same ole biker magazine at heart but just coming to you a little more clearer now. We’d like to welcome aboard & say thanks to all of our new advertisers as well as our old friends returning from last year’s riding season & to our regular faithful advertisers that roll with us each issue – it’s your fi nancial support which allows us to keep this magazine alive each month. A very special thanks to all of you… our readers – YOU are truly what keeps the Thunder rolling for us all! We wish you all peace in your lives & love in your hearts. Please look out for each other & ride safe out there…See you out on the road!

Kelly

CALENDAR OF EVENTS...............................................4

PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN.................................6

HOT SHOTS...................................................................16

NATIONAL BIKER NEWS..........................................26

SOUNDCHECK .............................................................28

THUNDER ON THE ROAD.........................................30

TITTS (TAKIN’ IT TO THE STREETS)..............................34

THE JOKER’S WILD....................................................38

BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY................................42

ON EAGLES WINGS...................................................50

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS.....................................53

READERS RIDES.........................................................54

NATIONAL FOUNDERSToni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon

1421 Chapmansboro RoadChapmansboro, TN 37035

Offi ce: 615-792-0040 Fax: 615-792-7580e-mail: [email protected]

© THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THUNDER PUBLISHING. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OC-CUPIED BY THE ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REA-SONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LIABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PERSON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND CLAIMS MADE BY ADVERTISERS AND AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN, AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE POLICY OF THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES NOT PROMOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.


MARCH 2007

Mar 2nd – 11th

Daytona Bike Week – Daytona Beach, FLVisit www.BikerBeach.com for more info

Mar 9th

Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum’s 19th Annual Friendraising Breakfast - Daytona, FL Guest Speaker Willie G. Davidson. Hilton Resort 100 N. Atlantic Ave. Daytona.FL. Contact [email protected]

Mar 10th - 11th & 17th & 18Highland County Maple Festival. Mountain Valley Riders leaving Mt. Crawford Exxon 9:00 either Saturday. Contact [email protected]

Mar 11th

1st Annual Ride for Fallen Offi cers - Portsmouth, VAPresented by Knuckleheads Roadhouse & Police Unity Tour Chapt IV. Registration & start Bayside Harley Davidson, 2211 Fredrick Blvd, Portsmouth, VA (757) 397-5550. Sign up 9am - 11:45 am. Police escorted ride leaves at noon. $10 donation per rider/$5 per passenger. End site & Post Ride Fundraiser at Knuckleheads Roadhouse, 401 Witchduck Rd., Va Beach, VA 757-644-6200. Featuring Bike Show, 9 different categories, plus best in show. 50/50 drawing, Live auction with over $5000 worth of donated items. All proceeds go to the Police Unity Chapt IV. Info for sponsorship, donations & more call Mary Bradford (757) 567-4882 or J.R. at (757) 675-8488.

Mar 11th

Daylight Savings Time Begins – Spring Forward…set your clocks ahead one hour! WooHoo! An extra hour of daylight to ride!

Mar 17th

Happy St. Patty’s Day! Don’t forget to wear something green when you roll out!

Mar 17th

Absolut Cycle Worx St. Patrick’s Day Kick Off of the Riding Season Party - Richmond, VACome kick off the 2007 Riding Season with us as we throw down at the shop with Black Cash playing & other bands (tba). Party from 2pm- 8pm? Cover charge is $10 per person, includes all your food, beer & beverages. Absolut Cycle Worx is located at 5016 Old Midlothian Tpke, Richmond. (804) 497-7000.

Mar 17th & 18th

Highland County Maple Festival. Mountain Valley Riders leaving Mt. Crawford Exxon 9:00. Contact [email protected] Mar 23rd - 25th

Ride for a Cure/Dive for a Cure - Virginia Beach, VA This event kicks off on Friday, March 23rd with a 24 hour dive-a-thon during which individuals or teams attempt to remain underwater for 24 hours straight and raise monies thru sponsor donations per hour spent underwater. There will be around the clock events for the duration of the dive including a breakfast and cookout on March 24th. The dive takes place in the pool at Lynnhaven Dive Center, 1413 N. Great Neck Road, Virginia Beach, VA, (757) 481-0335. The Ride for a Cure Poker Run takes place on Sunday, March 25th, and the ride will commence at Lynnhaven Dive Center (address listed above). Registration will be between 9am-11am. There will be a cookout, Door Prizes, 50/50, music, refreshments and lots of other exciting stuff. The monies collected by both the ride and the dive will be donated to several cancer foundations including the American Cancer Society, Cancer Care Foundation of Tidewater, The Foundation for Applied Research in Gastrointestinal Oncology (FARGO). Last year over $60,000.00 was raised and donated! For additional

information about participating in or donating to the Ride or Dive contact Lynnhaven Dive Center (757) 481-0335.Mar 23rd - 25th

Va Beach Convention Center Dept. of Va Legion Conference and ALR Dept.Meeting For more info contact [email protected] 24th & 25th The 1st Annual Northeast Motorcycle Expo - Long Island NY Suffolk Community College Exhibition Center, Brentwood, Long Island, NY, featuring bike builders, celebrities and more Saturday 10AM to 5 PM and Sunday 10AM to 5 PM. All brand motorcycle show: Best of Northeast Custom Bike Show, Iron Angels, music by Cross Cut Saw, and entertainment for the kids. Hundreds of vendors, displaying biker accessories and fashions, motorcycle dealers, displaying their latest models. Admission tickets are $15.00 per person, children under 12 years of age $7.00 and children 5 and under free. For more information contact 1-877-BikeXpo (877-245-3976) or www.NEMotorcycleExpo.com A Kev-Marv Production.

Mar 31st

Annual Chili Cookoff - Staunton, VA Sponsored by the Shenandoah Valley HOG Chapter is March 31, 2007. Sample chili from 11am-1pm (or until everything is gone!!) $3.00 buys you a bowl, spoon and a vote for your favorite valley chili! Visit www.shenandoahhd.com for a listing of all of our events!

Mar 31st

Blessing of the Bikes – Woodbridge, VATentative 10AM, veteran’s Park, Woodbridge. Don’t be foolish, get extra protection for a blessed riding season. Renegade Classics, 14575 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Woodbridge, VA

Mar 31st

River City ABATE Biker’s First Aid Seminar - Glen Allen, VA9:00am to 1:00pm (lunch & refreshments provided)Place: Richmond Harley Davidson, 10441 WashingtonHighway (Route 1), Glen Allen, VACost $ 30.00 (includes First Aid Kit)Class Size is limited to 50 participantsFor more Information & Pre-Registration - Contact Steve Skeens @ (804) 389-8293 or Scott Blankenship @ (804) 744-8383 River City ABATE considers the fact that the most likely person(s) to be present at the scene of a motorcycle crash is also another Biker/Rider. How do such person’s reduce the severity of the injury(s) and/or help to prevent fatality(s) while providing less exposure to the legal and fi nancial risks prior to arrival of the Emergency Medical Services/First Responders (Paramedics, EMT’s & etc.)

APRIL 2007

Apr 4th – 7th 1st Annual Big Daddy Leather Spring Break Cruisin in the Carribean – Charleston, SCDeparts Charleston, SC stops include Grand Cayman, Cozumel & Key West Florida. Details, pricing and reservation info contact Big Daddy Leather, 1900 Princess Anne St., Fredericksburg, VA ph. 540-899-0048 www.bigdaddyleather.com, email [email protected]

Apr 6th - 9th

BMW Riders Group Spring Blue Ridge Ride - Verona, VA Leave Saturday 9:00 Kathy’s Restaurant Verona Va., head south on Blue Ridge Parkway, camp at Meadows of Dam, continue South on Sunday. Contact [email protected] April 8th

Happy Easter! Hop on the bikes & let’s roll!

Apr 13th – 22nd

5th Annual Heritage Motorcycle Rally - Charleston, SC This the Grandfather of Bike Week Charleston. Rally Central, located at 9850 Hwy 78, Ladson, SC 29456, is home to “the wildest bike show in the south” and the Million Dollar Bike Build-Off. Top name bands, Vendors, scheduled rides daily – Beaufort to the south, Myrtle Beach to the North, the Islands and Historic Charleston. Charity Runs. 10 full days of laid back enjoyment! Gates open at 10am on Friday. Info call 843-767-4258 or visit www.heritagemotorcyclerally.comApril 13 - 22, 2007

Apr 14th

Lee Garrett Memorial Run - Lynchburg, VA C.W. at [email protected]

Apr 14th

2nd Annual Divas Only Bike Show - Chesapeake, VA This indoor event being held at the Chesapeake Convention Center will include great food, prizes, give-a-ways, special guests, and live entertainment from the band “Krunch.” Back again this year is the famous Diva Customs fashion show featuring beautiful women wearing the hottest leather fashions in town So ladies get your bikes ready..this show is for you! Guys, you are welcome to come in, but its “Girls against the Girls!” And this is a showdown you don’t want to miss. The grand prize of $1000.00 will be given to the “Best In Show” winner! All bikes in the show must be owned by women. (Proof of ownership is required) Ladies, register early at www.DivaCustoms.com. For more information about the show or sponsorship call Diva Customs at 757-428-DIVA or contact us on our website at www.DivaCustoms.com.

Apr 14th – 15th

The IRS (irresistible retail sale) has arrived. Take a break form doing taxes and enjoy 30 – 50 % off all winter items. Includes a parking lot party on Saturday. Renegade Classics, 14575 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Woodbridge, VA

Apr 14th

Spring Break Children’s Miracle Network Car, Truck, Motorcycle Show- Fredericksburg, Va. Non-Alcoholic event, 140 Trophie’s call 540-374-2240 for info.

Apr 14th - 21st Heritage Million Dollar Bike Build-Off – Ladson, SCThe “SUPERBOWL” of the Bike Building World! 15 Builders * 1 Winner * 1 Million Dollars. The Playoffs begin April 14th, 2007, held during the 5th Annual Heritage Motorcycle Rally in Charleston South Carolina. The teams are: Kendall Johnson * Paul Cox & Keino* Joe Martin * Aaron Greene * Roger Goldammer * Roger Bourget * John Dodson * Darrian Tefft & Mario Audia * Jerry Burrow * Russell Marlowe * Vinnie Minichiello * Eddie Trotta * Roland Sands * Bruce Mullins * Arlen Ness. The 15 distinguished custom motorcycle builders are right now in their shops, putting their all into what they hope will be named the “2007 Heritage Million Dollar Bike Build-Off Winner”. These builders will transport their entries to: The Exchange Park outside of the Charleston, SC to arrive no later than 7 PM April 13th 2007 for the Unveiling. And then place those entries on display for 8 full days for judges & spectator looks. And then they, (the builder themselves), must ride these bikes 100 grueling miles as a group. (Lose the group & they could lose the prize). Check it out at: www.heritagemilliondollarbikebuildoff.com

Apr 15thOpen House & Poker Run to benefi t the Victory Junction Gang Camp - Colonial Heights, VABeing held at Catlins Kustom Cycles - 1st bike out @ 9am, last bike out @11amEntertainment provided by Copper Ridge Bluegrass Band, Book Signings/Sales of well-known Author of Motorcycle Traveling-Dale Coyner, Food, door prizes, 50/50 raffl e, entertainment for children. Check out all of our other events at www.ckccustoms.comApr 15th

Third Annual Purple Heart Ride - Sykesville, MD Blue Knights MD IX is having its Third Annual Purple


cont. page 12

Heart Ride to benefi t those injured servicemen and women who have returned from Iraq and Afghanastan. These wounded soldiers are being treated at the Bethesda Naval Hospital and Walter Reed Army Medical Center. The proceeds from this police escorted ride will be presented to the Armed Forces Foundation to benefi t these wounded soldiers. The ride travels from Freedom Park in Sykesville Maryland and travels to Bethesda Naval Hospital in Bethesda Maryland. Registration begins at 7 am through 10 am when the ride leaves the park. The ride is rain or shine. Date: Sunday, April 15, 2007, Contact Phone: 410-804-5721 (Steve Martin), Email: [email protected], Link: http://www.bkmdix.org

Apr 20th - 22nd 10th Annual Virginia Beach Bike Classic - Virginia Beach, VA Sponsored by Geico Motorcycle. Camp Pendelton, Virginia Beach - Over 100 Local & National Vendors. World famous bike builders attending this year: Dave Perewitz, Russel Mitchell of Exile Cycles, Randy Simpson of Milwaukee Iron, Johnny Lange of Strip Club Choppers, Swede Built Motorcycles, Big Rick Hoffman of Logic Motorcycles & The Wrench! Bike Show, Field Events, Burnout Contest, Bikini Contest, Parade of Bikes, Fun Kids Stuff, Great Food, Cold Beverages & Much More! Events scheduled: Kansas, The Wreckers, Phil Vassar. Vendor & Sponsor info (757) 675-8488 or (757) 560-0877, fax (757) 426-1880. For more including lodging info visit www.vabeachbikeclassic.com. Proceeds benefi t USO of Hampton Roads.

Apr 21st

The Patriots’ Tour - Richmond, VA This ride begins at the Va War Memorial in Richmond. This fund-raiser ride is to benefi t the War Memorial and it’s education for kid’s program. The ride will take about 1 hour and end up in Colonial Heights Va at the American Legion Post where a 2007 Harley Davidson Electra-Glide will be given away. First bike out 9:00am last bike out 11:00am. Pre-registration cost $25.00 gets you a T-Shirt and lunch. Extra rider cost $10.00 includes lunch only. 1000 tickets raffl ed off at $50.00 each. Registration is through the VAWM. Raffl e Tickets and registration forms can be picked up at the War Memorial {804} 786-2060 or from American Legion Riders of Southern Va. For more info visit: http://vawarmemorial.org/motorcycle.html or contact [email protected]

Apr 25th – 29th

5th Annual Outer Banks Bike Week – Outer Banks, NCThe 5th Annual Outer Banks Bike Week is packed full with entertainment, great food, events and special attractions. Poker Run. Bike Show. Live Music. Scenic Rides. Offi cial Night-time party sites. www.outerbanksbikeweek.com

Apr 26th – 28th

North Carolina State H.O.G. Rally 2007 – Outer Banks, NC “Cruzin the Outer Banks” 100 miles of beach cruzin at it’s best! This H.O.G. event offers riding, sight-seeing, activities – something for everyone. Register by March 8th , 2007 for your chance to win a brand new 2007 Sportster. “Get your Crabs” Poker Run - $1,000 1st prize. Bike Show, Field Games, Live Beach Music. Guided ride to Ocracoke Island and Lighthouse Tour. Police escorted bike parade to the Wright Bros. Memorial. New Kitty Hawk H-D dealership, located only ½ mile away from the rally site. Call the hotline or visit the website for more information. NC Rally Hotline: 1-252-221-4657 www.ncstatehogrally.com

Apr 26th - 29th

Outer Banks Bike Week with a Legion Riders Social For more info contact [email protected]

Apr 28th

Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 3204 Poker Run To Benefi t Alzheimer’s Research - Virginia Beach, VA10 am at the Fraternal Order of Eagles, 1061 Newtown Road, Va Beach 23462, Before April 16th: $15 plus $5 for rider. After April 16th: $20 plus $10 per rider. Pig Roast with all the fi xins afterwards. Breakfast buffet will be available from 8am - 9:45 am for $5. For more info please contact the Aerie at (757) 497-1876 or Bill or

Shelley at (757) 421-9687 or (757) 373-4811. Rain or Shine.

Apr 29th

Southern Cruisers Crusin’ For A Cure - Virginia Beach, VA Hosted by the Southern Cruiser Riding Club, Hampton Roads Chapt #26. To benefi t research for St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Registration from 9am - 11am. First bike out 10:30 am. Last bike out 11:15am. Registration will be at Fastlane Biker Gear and Accessories, 166 Rosemont Rd., Va Beach, VA 23452. $10 for Rider, $5 passenger. Prizes for Best & Worst poker hand, Largest Group, Oldest/Youngest Rider, Furthest Distance Traveled, Door Prizes, 50/50 Raffl e

MAY 2007

May 5th

MS. UNDERSTOOD RIDERS 4TH ANNUAL CAR, BIKE & TRUCK SHOW - Stafford, VA 11am-8pm @ Butch & Chiquitas, 54 Montague Loop Stafford, Va. 22554. Adults $20, kids 12 & under FREE. Vendors, Food, Drinks, Raffl es, Face Painting, Dunking Booth, Wet T-Shirt & Hard Body Contest. Music by DJ Deluxe and Sha Sha tha Mouth Piece. Trophies to be awarded. For info contact the Ms Understood Riders Public Relations Offi cers Karamel-Delyte (540) 272-9042, Honey (540) 379-6928, Pink (703)919-7468 May 5th

The ROC Bike Fest - Richmond, VA. Stunt team, Door Prizes, Music, Bike show & Trophys www.TheROC.com, 804-675-4101

May 6th

TRIAD PLEASURE RIDERS M/C 11TH ANNUAL, CASH GIVEAWAY & BIKE SHOW- Kernersville, NC From 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. VENDORS - MUSIC - FOOD - DOOR PRIZES. DRAWING for CASH GIVEAWAY 1ST PRIZE- $500.00 2ND PRIZE- $200.00 3RD PRIZE- $100.00. TICKETS $5.00 ea.. BIKE SHOW $10.00 ENTRY. 8 CLASSES 1ST & 2ND PLACE TROPHIES. KERNERSVILLE MOOSE LODGE, 1250 EAST MOUNTAIN STREET KERNERSVILLE, NC. South of Parks Chevrolet in Kernersville, NC on Hwy 421 between County Line Tavern and Colfax Furniture. Contact; Steve Robertson 336-769-3909

May 6th Relay for Life Poker Run- Midlothian, VA Team event to fi ght cancer Sunday May 6, 2007 (rain or shine). 9:00 - 10:00AM registration at Cycle Connection of Virginia, 17401 Midlothian Pike (4 min. west of Midlothian on RT 60) For more info. contact Marie Crow 804-674-1265.

May 11th – 20th

Myrtle Beach Bike Week – Myrtle Beach, SCwww.myrtlebeachbikeweek.com

May 12th Rotary Rumble for Kids! - Portsmouth, VA Come help us support several local Children’s charities, leaving from Route 17 Motorcycle Accessory Shop at 3405 High Street in Portsmouth , Virginia ! Registration is at 8;30, FBO 9:00, LBO 10:00. The Dice run will include coffee & donuts, ride pin, T-shirt and lunch for the fi rst rider at $20, and passengers receive a play sheet, T-shirt and lunch for $10. It will be a great ride, and will include music, door prizes, and raffl es! Online registration is available at www.greatbridgerotary.org, or email [email protected] for more information. C U there!

May 13th

Happy Mother’s Day to all you Mama’s out there!!! It’s YOUR day ladies so let’s ride!!!

May 20th

11th Annual Charity Ride to Benefi t the Children for the Mid-Atlantic Burn Camp - Harrisonburg, VA Sponsored by Mountain Valley Riders Motorcycle Club. Registration $25, 8 to 10am at APPLEBEE’S Restaurant

on 33E. Harrisonburg, Va.. Pancake breakfast 8-9. Door Prizes, 50/50, BBQ & refreshments included at end of 100 mile ride. Ride patch for fi rst 100 registered. All riders and bikes welcomed. Prize for Club with most attendees. Come attend the largest ride in Rockingham County. Parade start Police Escort, Poker run Ride. Contact: [email protected] or Smokey 540-896-8929. www.mvrva.tripod.com Club Rides 3rd Sunday each Month.

May 26th

Rough Riders MC’s 2nd Annual Memorial Day Weekend Bike Show - Stafford, VAProceeds benefi t the Wounded Warrior Project www.woundedwarriorsproject.org. Noon - 3pm Show registration begins @ 11am. People’s Choice Trophies awarded. $5 entry fee for show. $35 per Chance to win a NEW 2006 Harley Davidson Softail provided by Southside Harley-Davidson, Virginia Beach, VA 757-499-8964 - Only 714 Tickets sold. Show and drawing @ Main Street Grill and Bar, 315 Garrisonville Rd., Stafford, VA (winner is obligated for Tax, Lic, set-up and Freight fees associated). You do not need to be present to WIN. Contact Sailor 377-9973, Snake (540) 288-7772 or (540) 288-9277 or Diego (760) 415-7433.

May 27th

Rolling Thunder XX – Washington, DCwww.rollingthunder1.com

May 27th 2nd Annual Freedom Run - Martinsburg, WV. For more info go to www.epcabate.org or call (304)262-1844

May 28th

Memorial Day - Take some time today & maybe even a slow ride in honor & remembrance of the men & women who have died serving our country.

May 31st – Jun 3rd

Dam Bike Rally - Fontana Dam NC Fontana Village Resort will host the Dam Bike Rally, May 31-June 3, 2007. We are only 10 miles from the famous “Dragon” and 25 miles from the Cherohala Skyway, and of course, our own Hellbender 28. Live Music; cookouts; vendors; contests; poker runs. Please visit our websites at www.fontanavillage.com or www.smokymountainbikeweek.com or www.hellbender28.com Make your reservations early by calling 800-849-2258. We look forward to seeing you! Sponsored by Fontana Village Resort. Contact: Marketing & Groups Sales Department, Email: aburchfi [email protected], Phone: (828) 498-2211, Fax: 828-498-2209 Website: www.fontanavillage.com

JUNE 2007

Jun 1st - 3rd

Thunder On The Rock Motorcycle Rally - Monteagle Mountain, TNThe newest, biggest, baddest Motorcycle Rally. Everyone 18+ is welcome. Be apart of historyby being apart of the fi rst ever THOR Rally! Jam with Kentucky Headhunters & .38 Special plus a ton of other live entertainment. We will have lots of events, contests and games including the fun frozen T-shirt contest! There will be bike shows, vendors, the Thundereets, beer, showers on site and free camping. In addition to our headline acts we will have other bands and entertainment lined up as our 1st annual event draws closer. One of the best parts is getting here, the scenic roads and the attractions surrounding us. Less than 45 minutes away, you will fi nd 3 different lakes, Jack Daniels, Rock City, The Natural Bridge, just to name a few. Mark your calendar and come on out and play with us!!!!! Tickets are only $30 in advance, $40 at the gate. For more info & the latest updates on the rally visit www.thunderontherockonline.com

Jun 2nd & 3rd

Suffolk Executive Airport’s (fl y-In)1st Annual Wings and Wheels Weekend - Suffolk, VA To be held the

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 6THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 6

By Linda KozarynAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2006 – When Noel Totten ar-rived home to fi nd 40 leather-clad motorcyclists pulled up at his house in Bloomington, Minn., he knew why they’d come.

Universal Recording artist Rockie Lynne, co-founder of Tribute to the Troops, presents a plaque to Noel Totten Sept. 8 at Totten’s home in Bloomington, Minn. About 40 members of the group visited Totten’s home to pay their respects for the loss of his brother, Chief Warrant Offi cer Eric W. Totten, 34, an Army Chinook helicopter pilot who died May 5 when his chopper went down in Afghanistan. Photo by William Moss ‘A few weeks earlier, he’d received a call from Gregg Schmitt, director of the Minneapolis-based “Tribute to the Troops.” Schmitt asked Totten if members of the motor-cycle group could stop by to pay their respects for the loss of his brother. Chief Warrant Offi cer 3 Eric W. Totten, 34, an Army Chinook helicopter pilot, was killed when his chopper went down in Afghanistan on May 5. Totten told Schmitt his family would welcome the group’s visit. Greeting the riders at his home Sept. 8, Totten pulled his brother’s dog tags, painted portrait and photo out of his car to show the riders. Schmitt, president of the Minne-sota booking agency, The Music Works, and Universal South recording artist Rockie Lynne, co-founder of the ride, gave Totten a framed portrait of his brother made by volunteer Rick Block. Schmitt and Lynne founded the Tribute to the Troops ride Sept. 11, 2004. During that fi rst ride, about 60 bikers on 45 motorcycles visited the homes of three fallen heroes in the Twin Cities metro area. Coor-dinating the annual tribute, Schmitt said, is a way to give back for all the good things in his life. “I’ve volunteered for a lot of different things, but never anything that felt as

important or meaningful as reaching out -- as strangers -- to a person whose heart is aching from the loss of a loved one and telling them we care, we won’t forget.” In 2005, 90 riders visited 14 families throughout Minnesota, and Lynne performed at a benefi t concert. The event raised $5,000 for Wounded Warriors, a Nebraska-based non-profi t corporation founded in 2003 to support the soldiers, airmen, sailors and Marines wounded in Afghanistan and Iraq. Lynne said meeting families who have lost a son or daughter, husband or wife, mother or father “will change you for the rest of your life.” “The sense of loss on those people’s faces is so powerful, it makes you want to do something,” he said. “You’ll never take our freedom for granted again. “I don’t think the gravity of it hits you until you actually pull into someone’s driveway,” Lynne said. “We can never ever know what they feel. We can only let them know their loss didn’t go unnoticed.” This year the riders visited 11 fallen servicemembers’ families over the course of three days. The ride started at the state Capitol Sept. 8, and ended with a concert at the Medina Ballroom in Hamel, Minn., Sept. 10. By the third day of the ride, the number of motorcycles participating had increased to 130. “All of the neighbors were so impressed,” Totten said by phone following the riders’ visit to his home. “At fi rst they were concerned, seeing all these motorcycles coming down the street. But when they all came out of their houses and saw how peaceful everything was, they joined in, applauding when Rockie, Gregg and I each gave a little talk. “I felt very special that they were willing to devote their valuable time and energies to give Eric recognition -- not only Eric, but all service people,” he said. Totten said his brother joined the Army shortly after high school when a lifelong friend who had gotten into drugs committed suicide. “He decided he didn’t want to go that way. He decided to make something out of his life,” Totten recalled. “So at the young, tender age of 18 he joined the Army to play in the Army band.” The soldier musician then went on to become a Ranger, and in 1997 was named Ranger of the Year. “Many Army people have told me that (achieving) that is like (winning) the Army Olympics,” Totten said. “Two real husky, muscle-bound soldiers came up to me and said, ‘I wouldn’t even begin to think about trying to be Ranger of the Year like your brother did.’” The Ranger of the Year went through fl ight school and realized that he’d found his calling in the mili-tary. “He simply loved it,” Totten said. “He got around the world on many important missions. He volunteered to do a fl ood-relief mission in Albania. He did two tours in Bos-nia. But he was humble. He never bragged about it. Most of the stuff that I found out about my brother was through friends of his in the military. “He wasn’t one of those guys who said, ‘Look at me and look what I’ve done,’” Totten

America Supports You: Bikers Demonstrate Nation’s Patriotism, Compassion


stressed. “He just didn’t have that kind of personality. But, when he was asked to do something, he went beyond the call to do it and do it right and do it better than ever. That’s just the way Eric was.” At the time of his death, Totten said, his brother had reached the rank of chief war-rant offi cer 3 and was on his second tour in Afghanistan. Tribute to the Troops wasn’t the fi rst motorcycle group to acknowledge family’s loss, Totten said. Several hundred riders attended his brother’s funeral in Augusta, Kan., where their grandparents had bought 30 cemetery plots for the family shortly before World War II. After the family learned protesters planned to attend the funeral, Tot-ten said, the Patriot Guard called to offer their services. The nationwide motorcycle group, which grew to 50,000 members in just over a year, attends fallen troops’ funer-als as invited guests to pay respects and shield mourning family members and friends from protestors. “When we came out of the church, we didn’t realize there were going to be 400-plus Patriot Guard riders there,” Totten recalled. “The sight was spine-tingling. “We were walking out of the church, getting into our limousines as they were loading the casket into the hearse, and we noticed each Patriot Guard rider had a 3-by-5-foot American fl ag,” he said. “They’d formed a line on each side of the drive. It was as if we were driving under a canopy of American fl ags.” Totten said the townspeople did not know his brother, but when they heard about the protestors, they lined the side of road. The few that didn’t have a fl ag either sa-

luted or held their hand over their hearts as the funeral procession passed by. “Augusta is only a town of about 5,000 people, and it looked to me like the whole town was there,” Totten said. “When we passed the fi re depart-ment, they had a huge American fl ag hanging from a fully extended hook and ladder,” he said. “All of the fi remen were standing there at attention. Everybody stood still as the hearse drove by. It was like everybody froze in time. It was so impressive. “Before this, I had some doubts about this country’s patriotism,” Totten said. “At that moment I realized that patriotism is alive and well in this country.” Last week’s visit by the Tribute to the Troops riders once again rekindled Totten’s faith in America’s patriotism and compassion, he said. Having people acknowledge their loss gives them a welcome opportunity to talk about their loved one and share their grief, he said. “We very much appreciate it when people take their valuable time to give recognition to the families of the fallen and the wounded,” he said. “It is so cleansing for people to be able to talk”


by Phil IsleyService ManagerSouth Richmond Harley-Davidson Richmond,Virginia

Winterization and Spring Prep Do you have a dead battery? Save yourself a headache. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially with motorcycles. When you store your bike for the Winter, there are a few inexpensive things you can do to prevent “Spring time blues” trying to start your bike in the Spring. The fi rst thing you need to do is install a battery tender. The plug hangs out under the seat so you don’t have to re-move the seat or battery to charge up the battery, just plug it in and leave it until you’re ready to ride. Harley-Davidson has a “smart charger” that plugs into any standard recep-tacle and is small enough to store in a windshield bag. Make sure your tank is fi lled with 93 octane gas and add one ounce of Mavel Mystery Oil. This will cut down on gumming of the carburetor or fuel injectors. Then try to start your bike once a month and let it run 5-10 minutes. When it’s time to ride, your battery and fuel system will be as ready as you are. Before you hit the road, be sure to check your tire pressure. Improper infl ation is dangerous. Also recheck your oil level per your owner’s manual. If you do not have this informa-tion, call your local dealer and they can provide this for you. On a Harley, the bike has to be on it’s jiffy stand with the engine warm. Other bikes may vary in this procedure but it needs to be done. Once all your fl uid levels and tire pressures are correct, do a walk around to be sure that your front and rear turn signals operate properly, hi/lo beam on your head light, and check your brakes. As much as you like to ride, it would be really cool to be able to stop when you need to.

Ride Safe, Phil

TECH TIPSTECH TIPS

�In the wind�? Or should we say something more like �Out of wind�, after blowing up all the bal-loons needed to construct these amazing cre-ations. Too cool! Pics sent in by our own Ricky Derby � Thanks!

Balloon Balloon BikesBikes

The 2007 VRSCAW V-Rod®M.S.R.P. $16,495.00

By Kirk Johnson

For 2007, the V-Rod® sports a thinner drive belt with a wider tireand a frame that holds a 5 gallon fuel tank.

About the Bike

User-friendly improvements for 2007 will please the daily rider im-mensely. First and foremost, one of the biggest hang-ups with the older V-Rods® was the 3.7 Gallon fuel tank capacity. Now, with the wider frame they are able to put a full 5 gallon fuel tank in the frame without increasing ground clearance like they did with the Street-rod®. With the wider frame they are now able to replace the 180 mm rear tire with nice fat 240 mm asphalt grabbing rear tire. Looks great!They also moved the ignition switch from under the right leg to a very accessible place just ahead of the forward cylinder. Now you don’t have to worry about the dreaded dropped key that disappears problem. For 2007 they replaced the small battery that the V-Rod® had with a bigger Dyna™ battery by moving the ECM to under the rear seat and moving the coolant reservoir aft of the air box.Currently there are 5 V-Rods®: the Night Rod™, Night Rod™ Special, Street Rod™, VRSCX or the Screamin’ Eagle®, and of course the standard V-rod® or the VRSCAW. For 07 they all have a new thinner carbon-fi ber belt fi nal drive, plus a fi ve-speed tranny with a multi-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath.

Test Drive

If you have read any of my past test rides, you know I’ve spent a fair amount of time on different V-Rods®. I like them a lot. I was not sure of what to expect with the new 07 model. It seemed like most of the improvements were with people friendly appointments. Not that this is bad; I think it is a great idea to clean up some of the shortcomings from the older models. As for handling and performance the only real change was rear tire and a wider frame. I had two different people tell me about how that 240 rear was going to affect the ride. Interestingly, they both had completely different ideas about how it would affect the ride. It was a very cold day here in the valley. I grew up in Iowa and used to cold weather. It’s cold in Iowa when it gets down to below zero and when it does, you know it is cold. Now when it gets below 60 here in the valley, it is cold. Today it was below cold so I only spent about an hour on the bike but loved every minute of it.With that little 100 hp mill warming up I played with the traffi c for a little bit to get comfortable with the new ride. So far, I was unable to tell any difference with the new 07 from the older models. After several miles, I decided to take to the side roads and play with the new machine. First thing out of the box was the passing test. Just what

you would expect, it was quick and quiet. Silently you speed down the asphalt on a very stable machine. About the only thing that I can tell you about this ride and most of the V-Rods® that I have been on is that they are very obedient, trustworthy and dependable. Although there is no roaring thunder from the v-twin, you can appreciate the slight exhaust noise and the sound of the mechanics from the engine laboring underneath you. The thrill of the acceleration and how fast it stops with ease is amazing. The best part about it is that every time you do it, it is just as much fun. Of course you always want just a little more.

Now to play with the new 240-rear tire. From a standing start, you can still smoke the rear tire. That did not surprise me at all. Now for the turning chrematistics, how will this affect the ride? First, I just turned real slow in a circle on a two-lane road to see if tight turning was affected. To me, it did not seem to affect the ride much at all. Leaned over as far as I could comfortably and still on a tight turn, the rear seemed to take a shorter path than the front. That would seem normal for a wider tire. There is a lot of difference from the 240 on this ride than there is when you get up to the more radical 300 and 340 tires. Performance for the high-speed turns, at least to me, was not really affected. It may be my skill level, but for a daily rider, the performance and agility of the bike was not affected. If you want to make a run up the back way to Prescott that might be a different story. The only real dif-ference with this tire as opposed to the 180 is when you are on very un-even, tired asphalt that has depressions where the tires ride, you get a feeling that the bike is being pushed to one side or the other, depending on what side of the depression you are on. That is the only real negative to the larger tire; the meatier tire defi nitely looks great under you.

Summary

The V-Rod® is a great machine and a great ride. There are a lot of user-friendly improvements for 2007. The new 5-gallon fuel capacity is a real biggy. Now you can go more than 100 miles before you have to refuel. What a drag that was. As you can see from the Dyno chart, this is no slouch. Right out of the box you get 100 hp – nice! The relocation of the ignition switch may seem like a little thing. Just ask any V-Rod® owner about what a great and needed improvement that is. The great looks of the new 240mm rear tire adds a look of being a more serious machine and the riding and handling of the V-Rod® has always been there. This is a great bike.

Ride safe.

Kirkwww.motorcycletestdrive.com



Hot News::::::::::::::::::::::::Hot News::::::::::::::::::::::::Redline Performance Motorsports Inc. of Yorktown has released the beast into Hamp-ton Roads. The brand spankin new 1098 su-per bike is here. Dave Lillard, President of Redline, just acquired the hottest sport bike on the market and I was there to see it arrive. Words cannot explain the esthetic beauty of this bike. However do not think the design team at Ducati even consid-ered the looks when they built this bike. Every little bit of this bike was designed with performance in mind. This would explain how they built the most powerful twin cylinder engine in the world with the highest torque to weight ratio of any sport bike (yes even the Jap bikes!). To bring this awesome power to a hault, Ducati is the fi rst sport bike manufacturer to include Brembo Monobloc brakes as a standard item. They thankfully brought back the single sided swingarm, however they constructed it through a new construction method, which saves weight. They also took the elliptical throttle bodies from the GP6 and includ-ed them in the production bike. For those of who have no idea what I’m talking about, race bike performance, pure and simple. For those of you who do know what I’m talking about, I bet you want numbers. How about 160 hp to the massive rear wheel and 90+ ft-lb torque which is more then a lot of cars have. Don’t take my word for it, stop in and see the Dave or Scott at Redline at 7331 George Washington Mem. Hwy, call 757-989-5000, or visit www.redlinemotors.com. Enough talk, I will let the pictures speak for themselves. Bow Down Japan!

Mike “Hammer”


fi rst weekend in June (2nd & 3rd) 2007. We plan to have Aircraft, Vintage Autos and Motorcycle displays and are looking for anyone interested in “showing off” their “machines.” We will have displays of anything with wings and wheels. The cars will be from street rods to classics, all kinds of motorcycles and planes from the usual to the unusual. One of the planes we will have is a 1936 Beech Staggerwing, which we will be selling rides on. There will be a Tuskegee Airman to talk to people concerning his experiences and he is selling a book he wrote for kids. He is a very interesting gentleman. On June 3rd, we will do Young Eagles from noon till 4:00PM. This event is sponsored by the Experimental Aircraft Assoc. (EAA). This is for young people ages 8 to 17. These young people will learn about planes and get to fl y in a small plane, free, then receive a certifi cate. Their name will then go into a logbook at the EAA headquarters. Saturday’s event will be from 10 AM - 4 PM. Sunday the show starts at Noon and lasts until??? We say 4, but last year there were folks still milling around at 6 p.m. There will be various vendors and food is available. While you’re there, visit the Throttleback Cafe (which is located inside the airport terminal). Jun 8th & 9th

12th Annual South Central Bike Fair - Chase City, VA 25-Class Bike Show ($250 Best of Show), Rodeo, $500 Poker Run, Tattoo Contest, Nightly Wet T-shirt Contest, Camping, Live Music, Vendors, Food, & More. Friday- Hotrod/Bike Cruz-In** Live Music ** Vendors** Camping. Saturday- Live Music ** Bike Show** Poker Run** Rodeo **Vendors. **T-shirt & Tattoo Contests ** Burnout Pit**Drawings & Giveaways**.www.southcentralbikefair.com. Contact Dana after 8pm 434.372.5554

Jun 8th - 10th

13th Annual National Heaven’s Saints Motorcycle Ministry Friends & Family Rally - Murphy, NCPeace Valley Campground, Murphy, NC. www.peacevalleycampground.com

Jun 9th

Bike Rally for the Special Olympics Virginia Summer Games - Richmond, VA The Chesterfi eld County Parks and Recreation Department along with Chesterfi eld County Police Department and Chesterfi eld County Sheriff’s Offi ce will be co-sponsoring a biker rally that will benefi t the Special Olympics Virginia Summer Games. This event will take place on Saturday, June 9th with registration starting at 8 a.m. and departing to the University of Richmond campus at 11 a.m. . The registration fee of $15 per person, a rally pin and free lunch and wonderful musical entertainment after the ride too. All proceeds from this event will go directly benefi t the Special Olympics Virginia Summer Games! For more information on this event, please call Mark Pinney at 804-748-1992 or Major David Hutton at 804-751-4419. Jun 9th Salty Dawgs Motorcycle Riding Club 1st Annual Poker Run - Virginia Beach, VA Benefi ting the Fisher House (www.fi sherhouse.org); Supporting America’s military in their time of need they provide “a home away from home” that enables family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful time - during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury. Registration at Boneshakers Saloon off of General Booth starting at 9am, last bike out 11am ride ends at the 392 VFW, 2408 Bowland Pkwy, Va. Beach (located behind Blue Horseshoe Tattoo, London Bridge Blvd). Featuring door prizes, 50/50 drawing and food. For information call (Pres) Pat at 757-548-8462 or Brian at 757-473-9385. We are still looking sponsors. Come join us and support our troops and their families. Jun 9th – 17th LACONIA Motorcycle Week – Laconia, NHVisit www.laconiamcweek.com

Jun 14th FLAG DAY – Fly ‘em proudly!

Jun 15th – 17thVNV M/C USA Road Dog Run - Sanford, NC 23rd Anniversary Celebration of Viet Nam Vets M/C of

North Carolina and 5th Anniversary of Second Brigade M/C. Donation at the gate includes admission, camping (Electrical Hookups $10/Night extra) & live entertainment. POW/MIA ceremony at noon on Saturday. Bike Games, 50/50 Raffl e, Contests & more fun than ought to be legal. All of this excitement nestled along the banks of a gently rolling creek and surrounded by working components of an antique mill. Come out enjoy Father’s Day weekend with America’s favorite Vets, The Viet Nam Vets M/C USA of North Carolina. Sponsored by Viet Nam Vets M/C USA - North Carolina, Contact: Doc Ski, Email:[email protected] Phone: (919) 662-6229, Fax: 919-933-7934, Website: www.vnvmcnc.org

Jun 17th

Father’s Day – No honey-do lists today Big daddys...let’s ride!!

Jun 20th – 23rd

Honda Hoot – Knoxville, TNVisit www.hondahoot.com for more info

Jun 21st – 23rd

VA State HOG Rally – Williamsburg, VAVisit www.vastatehogrally.com

June 23rd

June 23rd: 3rd Annual EPC ABATE Bike Show. Martinsburg, WVwww.epcabate.org

Jun 24th 2nd Annual Summer Splash Poker Run Eastern Shore HOG - Ocean City, MD www.easternshorehog.com Contact: Jerry Lawson, Chairman, ESC Summer Splash Poker Run e-mail: [email protected]

JULY 2007

Jul 4th

Independence Day – Happy 231st Birthday USA!

Jul 5th – 7th

Delaware/Maryland State HOG Rally – Dover, DE Visit www.mddestatehogrally.com

Jul 18th – 22nd

West Virginia State HOG Rally – Canaan Valley Resort, WV

Jul 20th – 22nd

Carlisle Summer Bike Fest - Carlisle PA Thousands of motorcycles, acres of vendors, a motorcycling paradise with 82 cares of two-wheeled entertainment. Motocross competition, motorcycle giveaways, beauty contest, seminars, stunt riders, dyno testing, burn-outs, a swap meet, celebrity guests, custom bike builder roundtable, and sponsor Midway. The Carlisle Summer Bike Fest: the bikes, the people, the excitement. For information visit the web site: www.carlisleevents.com or call us at (717) 243-7855. Sponsored by Carlisle Events. Contact: Mike Blake, Email: [email protected], Phone: (717) 243-7855.Website: www.carlisleevents.com

Jul 21st Thunder on the Mountain II - Hillsville, VA Thunder on the Mountain II located at Lake Ridge RV Resort, Hillsville, VA, with Vendors, Food, Motorcycle Rodeo, Bike Show, Benefi t Ride, Live Music by Back Kountry, and camping discounts. For more information www.vabikersassoc.org, or 276-728-2466 and 540-980-5687.

Jul 21st Down Rider Run - Martinsburg, WV from this ride go to the Eastern Panhandle Down Rider Fund. www.epcabate.orgJul 214th Annual Charity Run for the Kidney Disease Research - Norfolk, VASponsored by the Flaming Knights M/C. Northside Park Pavilion #5. $5 per rider, $5 per passenger, $1 Raffl e tickets. 09:00AM – Registration for the ride @ D&D

Cycles and Triumph, 1038 W Little Creek Rd, Norfolk VA 23505. 12 pm - Charity ride begins @ D&D Cycles and ends at Northside Park Pavilion #5 in Norfolk, VA. 1 pm - Cookout, Fun & Music @ Northside Park Pavilion #5. Raffl e of event prizes. Games, horseshoes, volleyball etc.. Most represented Club Trophy. 8pm - Cookout Ends. No alcohol in the park please!. Proceeds will be donated to Kidney Research! Any questions contact Larry “Sailor” Gilbreath (757) 485-1878 or (757) 856-2029.

AUGUST 2007

Aug 6th – 12th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally – Sturgis, SD Visit www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com

August 16th-18th 7th Annual America’s 9/11 Ride – From Somerset, PA to Arlington, VA ‘POLICE ESCORTED’. Join with the foundation on the 7th annual ride to all three crash sites and Honor the Heroes and Victims of September 11 2001. August 16th group rides from across America to Somerset, PA. Friday August 17, the ride begins @ 7:30am depart Somerset, PA heading to Pentagon in Arlington VA. Saturday August 18th, @7:30am departure the Pentagon heading to the site of the World Trade Center (NYC). Ride both days or just one. Don’t forget to buy your chance on the 2007 Chopper, ‘The Day After’. Proceeds go to college scholarship for First Responders Nation wide. For more Information please visit www.americas911foundation.org or www.americas911ride.org or call 877-771-0118. SEPTEMBER 2007Sept 15thFlaming Knights M/C Norfolk Chapter 5th Annual Trophy Party - Norfolk, VA 9pm - 2am, Elk Lodge # 38, 1231 Type Ave, Norfolk, VA 23502. $15 donation. BYOB, food available, 50/50 raffl e, Trophies, Cash. Host Hotel Best Western930 North Military Hwy, Norfolk. For more info contact Doc Savage (757) 589-8795, Big J (757) 435-0687, Jay Deuce (202 ) 409-5776, Dlegend (757) 535-3108, Kingfi sh (757) 270-1608, Jewel (757) 270-5718.Sept 23rd

EPC ABATE Family Picnic - Falling Waters, WV www.epcabate.org

OCTOBER 2007

Oct 3rd – 7th Myrtle Beach Fall Rally – Myrtle Beach, SC www.myrtlebeachbikeweek.com

Oct 18th - 21st Biketoberfest® - Daytona Beach FL Annual Motorcycle Festival held in the beautiful Daytona Beach area. Ride with us before the cold of winter sets in. Many, many great events countywide! Sponsored by Daytona Beach Area CVB. Contact: Janet Kersey, (866) 296-8970, Fax: (386) 255-5478. Email: [email protected]. www.Biketoberfest.org

Oct 26th - 28th

5th Annual Virginia Fall Classic - Newport News, VAwww.VaFallClassic.org

NOVEMBER

Nov 4th Daylights Savings Time Ends – Fall Back - Set your clocks back 1 hour! Dang! Lose an hour of daylight riding time…

Nov 22nd HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

DECEMBER

Dec 25th MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

cont. from 5


24th Annual Baltimore, MDBudweiser International Motorcycle ShowJanuary 19-21, 2007

The Baltimore Convention Center was the host site for this event enjoyed by all those who braved the weather. In the lobby, the Chesapeake Chapter of Antique Mo-torcycle Club displayed restored and original antiques. They provided history and introduction to the modern day motorcycles. The most “original”, so to speak, was the 1911 HD “Silent Gray Fellow” featured a single cylinder, 35 cubic inches, 4 HP. Original price: then $250, price now: priceless- which means if you have to ask, you can’t afford it!People’s Choice awards for “Best in Show” went to B.C. Choppers from Warrenton , V.A. with a beautiful Special Construction Radical Chopper. The People’s Choice “Best Bike Display” was awarded to Chris Rockhill, “Tigger” with a 2001 HD 883 Sportster from New Kent Co, VA. Judges selected Best in Show to Mike Haman with a 2006 Special Construction Radical Chopper. Custom bike builders/designers/fabricators included: Gangster Chop-pers & Hot Rod Shop, Outlaw Customs, Lucky Cycles, Randy Payne Motorsports, Vicious Cycles, C & C Cycles, D.C. Cruisers, Boss Hoss Cycles of MD, Backyard Cus-tom Cycles & Machine Shop, Cross Road Custom Cycles & BC Choppers, and Honda, Yamaha, Ducati dealers. Painters: Artistic Creations, Pro Art Works. Shopping opportunities included: Easy Leather, Stoltzfus RV’s and Marine, Lady Hawke Custom and Handmade Jewelry-Providing the parts to customize, WFO BikerParts.com/Custom Cycles of VA, Mechanicsville and Rob’s Used Harley Parts.com, Herndon, VA. Rob’s had many bike parts at the show and they specialize in Evo parts. The Rolling Thunder, Inc. Virginia Chapter 3 sponsored a raffl e to win two beautifully custom-painted bikes honoring our POW/MIAs: a 2007 Road King and 1200 Sportster. The lucky winner will win both bikes to be announced at the Rolling Thunder 2007 Memorial Day “Run to the Wall” ride. (Buy a ticket when you can…3 tickets for $10!)Many beautiful Harley show bikes, choppers, and trikes were scattered throughout the show grounds. Some that bring to mind are: Larry Crabtree’s Custom 2003 HD Electra Glide Classic, Richie Conrad’s Amen a 2005 Softail Savior: a beautiful custom painted Chopper, Linda Habercam’s 2005 Viking Streetfi ghter frame Custom 1200 conv. Sportster hardtail, Chris Milliron’s HD 2001 Road King Police Edition retired from Rockville, MD, P.D. and Linda Sedler’s 1986 fl ame-painted HD Custom Sportster: “It’s… Cazual.” For more information on the Bike & Rider Show Point Series 2007 Schedule, e-mail [email protected].

Thunder Roads Magazine contributors: Cathy & Chris (Tigger)


BIKES ARE BACK ON THE BIG SCREENBIKES ARE BACK ON THE BIG SCREENInfo & Pictures from Yahoo! Movies

GHOST RIDERRelease Date: February 16th, 2007A motorcycle stuntman, Johnny Blaze, makes a pact with a dark force, selling his soul to save his girlfriend. When the bargain goes sour and the girl isn’t saved, Blaze is transformed, gaining raging superpowers. Based on the Marvel comic series. Starring Nicholas Cage, Wes Bentley, Eva Mendes, Matthew Long, Peter FondaRated PG-13

WILD HOGSRelease Date: Mar 2nd, 2007A group of middle-aged friends decide to rev up their routine suburban lives with a freewheeling motorcycle trip. Tak-ing a long dreamed-of breather from their stressful jobs and family responsibilities, they can’t wait to feel the freedom of the open road. When this mis-matched foursome - who have grown far more used to the couch than the saddle - set out for this once-in-a-lifetime experience, they encounter a world that holds far more than they ever bargained for. The trip begins to challenge their wits and their luck, especially during a chance run-in with the Del Fuegos, a real-life biker gang who are less than amused with their novice approach. As they go looking for adventure, they soon fi nd that they’ve embarked on a journey they will never forget. Starring John Travolta, Tim Allen, Martin Lawrence & William H. MacyRated PG-13


If you’ve ever driven down Route 17 through Glouces-ter, VA., you’ve probably noticed a cycle accessory shop called Cycle Works. For those of you who have visited their shop in the past & also for those who’ve never taken a moment to stop in, it’s time to check them out because you’re in for a cool surprise. Cycle Works as of late De-cember 06’ came under new ownership. Who better to buy a shop that sells accessories to bikers than bikers! The new owners, Gary and Tammy Jones, are commit-ted to making sure you’re treated like family. I went to their offi cial grand opening & it was very cold and windy. However, the amount of bikes that rolled in that day showed me how devoted the customers were to this shop already, even after being open for only one month. They were welcomed to hot food and drinks as well as a ton of give-a-ways. Cycle Works carries all the popular accessories for you and your scoot. If they don’t have it, Gary will order it for you. Cycle Works also will be carrying the top brands of oil and other basic maintenance parts to keep your service costs down to a minimum. Some-thing I thought was really amaz-ing is that Gary keeps full sets of both standard and metric tools handy in the back in case a customer has a bike problem

while he or she is there and needs to do some temporary fi xing to get them home. Now that’s an owner who cares about his customers! In 3 to 4 months, Cycle Works will have a fully functioning online store on their website and over the next year is looking to expand the size of the shop. To make you feel more at home, every Sunday, they offer free coffee and doughnuts while you’re shopping, to help warm you up. Gary will also be taking motorcycles on consignment. After seeing the traffi c coming in and out of the store, you know they must have something good going on. Gary and Tammy are looking to involve themselves in the biker community and plan on sponsoring many local events in the future. Let’s face it people, an HJC helmet or a pair of chaps is the same no matter where you buy it, give or take a few bucks. The most important thing to know about Cycle Works is their customers are treated with respect and always feel welcome. This is where they will stand

out among the average bike busi-nesses. They’re a family shop, YOUR family shop, and we’d like to welcome them to Hampton Roads and the Thunder Roads family! Visit them at 1747 George Washing-ton Mem. Hwy. (Rt 17), Gloucester Point, VA or call them at 804-642-3334.

Mike “Hammer”

The Brand New Cycle Works The Brand New Cycle Works Grand Opening, Jan 27, 2007Grand Opening, Jan 27, 2007


Easyriders/V-Twin Bike Show TourBy Tim Wilmoth

The Easyriders Bike Show Tour rolled into Charlotte NC, the weekend of January 27th & 28th, 2007, one of only four “two day” events on the 12 city tour. That’s a good thing ‘cause you really needed two days to look at every-thing. With clear blue skies overhead, bikers rolled into downtown Charlotte all weekend. Nearly 11,000 people passed through the doors to check out some of the fi n-est iron ever assembled on the east coast. In addition to the bikes there was also a vast array of vendors…leather, t-shirts, rolling frames, wheels, custom parts, custom painters and tattooists. If you couldn’t fi nd it in the Charlotte Convention Center, you probably didn’t need it all that bad to start with. There was something in the building for everyone - Flatheads, Knuckles, Pans, Evolution’s, Indians, Asian & American Sportbikes and several of the best looking, oriental choppers I’ve ever seen. Everything from a one of a kind, dropped & chopped custom Vincent from Redneck Engineering to chopped mini bikes and interactive displays to keep the kids as well as the “kids at heart” amused. From as far away as Michigan, Florida, Texas and every-where in between, they came to Carolina to show off their art. And yes it’s defi nitely art. Masterpiece’s that’ll smoke the rear wheel and carry you down the road at better than a hundred mph. The Judged and Spectator classes con-sisted of more than 140 bikes, some shop built and some home builds, all of them shining with pride and accomplish-ment.Attendees could spend hours strolling along admiring the craftsmanship put into each and every one of these machines and when you got tired of hoofi ng it around you could go get a cold brew and watch “The Purrfect Angels” fashion show or a performance of one of their USO dance routine’s. Jasmine Cain rocked the building as she took the stage three times on Saturday and twice more Sunday, belting out tunes that ranged from Pat Benatar to AC/DC. In between the stage shows, Bruce Henderson, the event MC, kept the crowd going with drawings for free stuff and on many occasions, just slinging t-shirts, hats and other goodies out into the mass of people gathered around. Sofi a’ Parnacelli, Ms. Easyriders 2007, was also on hand and available for photo ops on a replica “Captain America” panhead. Bike builders Kendall Johnson and Paul Yaffe were at the show both days with their Discovery channel “Build Off” bikes, signing autographs and posing for pictures. Depar-ture Bike Works from Richmond brought a couple of bikes to the show. One of which was “The Virginian”, the 103” panhead that the shop built for an “as yet to air” episode of Biker Build Off. This radical rocket is truly a “departure from the norm”. Gangster Choppers, also out of Richmond, was at the show with four fi ne examples of what John and the crew does best…immaculate, old school choppers. Another Virginia shop that came to the ball was Big Cock Choppers from Warrenton (it’s a rooster ya’ll, their logo is a big ‘ol rooster). Mike Flammia and the gang brought down two fi ne rides. Their newest creation is a radical evo that rolls on a 360 rear tire. You’ve got to see it to believe it. An indecisive squirrel caught in the middle of the road with this thing bearing down on him wouldn’t stand a chance. If you wanted to see some bike fabrication, well, that was going on too. Austin Weiss, the 23 year old builder

‘73 Shovel with 39 Girder

Best in Show Winner

Departure’s Virginian

Event View


from Florida, is traveling with the tour building a bike under the watchful eye of the crowd. This particular weekend he was concentrating on the gas tank, forming the pieces out of sheet metal and welding them into place. The custom ride, when completed, will be auctioned off at the Daytona Beach Bikers Ball in March of ’08, the proceeds to benefi t the Florida Boys & Girls Clubs. Ralph Randolph of Rockem & Sockem motorcycle company had a sweet rigid shovel on display at his booth. That ride will be given away at the Easyriders Rodeo Tour fi nale in Chillicothe Ohio, Labor Day weekend 2007. And if that wasn’t enough, everyone that walked through the door got an opportunity to register for a Carolina Customs built, drop seat radical ride to be given away at the show tour fi nale in Kansas City. The list of shops represented at the show goes on & on: Milwau-kee Iron, Southside Customs, The Chopp Shopp, Carolina Customs and Nightmare Customs just to name a few. All of which had examples of their style on display. A new class added to the show this year is the “Pro-Build” class. Over 20 shops rolled their best efforts onto the red carpet near the event stage. All vying for a “master builder” spot on the 2008 Easyriders Centerfold tour. Only three from each event are chosen to attend the prestigious “Invitational” in Kansas City Missouri on May 5th. From a possible fi eld of 33 at the fi nale, only 6 will make the fi nal cut. Some of these bikes were just stand there, slack jawed, drool all over your shoes mesmerizing. Those chosen to go to Kansas City from the Charlotte show were: Shan-non Davidson with The Chopp Shopp built, 2007 Air Ride from Taylorsville, NC.; Austin Weiss/Streamline Designs built “Envy” out of Pompono, Fla. and the unbelievable, twin turbo, friction drive machine of Mike Pruss & South Florida Choppers from West Palm beach. The editors also chose three competitors for 1st, 2nd & 3rd Best In Show from the Judged class and the Specta-tor class. These bikes are also invited to the fi nals and will have features done on them in one of the magazines. One of these was the “Soulshine bobber” owned by Ben Jordan of Waxhaw NC, a bright yellow gold ’73 rigid shovel with a ’39 Indian girder. That bike is one of the neatest, cleanest shovelheads I’ve seen in a long time. All total, there were 41 awards given out at the end of the show. Six of those came back to Virginia and are as follows: Earl Laurie/Gangster Choppers… 3rd Place, Antique/Old School-Spectator class with a ’49 FLH bobber…Richmond Va. Michael Todd Mason ……3rd Place Specialty-Spectator Class with his 1997 Ultra Kustom Cruiser….Ferrum Va.John Dodson/Gangster Choppers…2nd Place Judged-Best of Show with their ’68 FLH chopper…”Gang Green”…Rich-mond Va.James Johnston/BC Choppers ….3rd Place Judged-Best Radical with their 2005 Pro StreetWarrenton Va.Lee Clemens/Departure Bike Works….3rd Place Judged-Best Specialty with their 2000 XL hot rod…..”Ghettoblast-er”…Richmond Va.Tim Wilmoth….1st Place Judged-Best Antique/Old School with his ’47 EL KnuckleheadAmelia Va.

After having been to this event I can honestly say that the Charlotte Easyriders show is the best bike show I’ve ever been to and if you love to ogle beautiful bikes all day, then you should plan on attending next year. You won’t be disap-pointed.

Ocean Evo

Orange Sunshine

Me & 2nd Place Specialty winner – Bubba

Austin Weiss building a tank


PAULA DEEN’S “Queen Of Southern Cuisine” EXTRA CRISPY, LIP SMACKIN’, FRIED CHICKEN3 Eggs1/2 Cup Water2 Cups Self-Rising Flour1 tsp. Black Pepper1 to 2-1/2 lb. chicken; cut into pieces or buy yourpieces already cut-up in the pieces you preferCrisco shortening for fryingBeat eggs with water. Add just enough self-rising fl our to coat all the chicken; add black pepper to fl our. Dip seasoned chicken in egg. Coat each piece with fl our mixture. Fry in moderately hot shortening (350 de-grees) until golden and crisp. * Paula adds hot sauce to the eggs for an added zip! * Crispy chicken requires either a large cast iron skillet, a deep oil fryer with bas-ket, or the deep-style electric skillet with the dome lid.

Again from the cooking genius of Paula comes......GRANDMOTHER PAULA’S SOUR CREAM POUND CAKE 1/2 Pound (two sticks) Butter3 Cups Sugar1 Cup Sour Cream3 Cups All-Purpose Flour1/2 tsp. Baking Soda6 Eggs1 tsp. Real Vanilla Extract Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Mix cream, butter and sugar together; add sour cream. Sift fl our & baking soda together. Add to creamed mixture, alternately with eggs, one at a time, beating after each. Add vanilla. Pour into a greased & fl oured tube pan and bake for 1 hour 20 min. * Paula was on Oprah making this cake and Oprah asked, “what would you say to health conscious individ-uals who cite all the rich ingredients in your recipes?”. To which Paula immediately replied, “I’m your cook, not your dang Doctor!!.” Right On, Paula!.

LUCK O’ THE IRISH PISTACHIO ICE-CREAM & SWEET TOFFEE TOPPING 1 Cup of Crushed, Butter Flavored Crackers1/4 Cup Butter; Melted3/4 Cup Cold Whole Milk1 Pkg. Jell-O Pistachio Pudding Mix1 Qt. Vanilla Ice-Cream, Softened1 Tub of Cool-Whip; thawed 2 Large Pkgs. of Heath Candy Bars; crushed In a bowl, combine the cracker crumbs & butter. Press into an un-greased 9 in. baking pan. Bake at 325 for 7-10 min. or until lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk milk & pudding mix for 2 mins. or until soft-set. Stir in ice cream; pour over crust. Cover & freeze for 2 hrs. or until fi rm. Spread w/ Cool Whip; sprinkle generously with crushed Heath bars. Cover & freeze for (1) hour until fi rm. Slice with hot knife to form (9) x-large squares. Delish Dessert!

LEPRECHAUN’S FROSTY KEY LIME PIE; Made Easy1 Can Carnation Condensed Milk6 Tbls. Key Lime Juice2 Cups Heavy Whipping Cream, Whipped & Divided1 Graham Cracker CrustIn a large bowl, combine milk & lime juice. Refrigerate 1/4 cup whipped cream for garnish. Fold a fourth of the remaining whipped cream into lime mixture; fold in remaining whipped cream. Spoon into crust. Cover & refrigerate overnight. Remove from the freezer 10-15 min. before serving. Garnish w/ reserved whipped cream. * Note that for every 1 cup of whipping cream it actually makes 2 cups of whipped cream.

HOMEMADE CREAMY SALSA DRESSING1/4 Jar of your favorite brand of Salsa6 Tbs. Lime Juice1 Cup Whole MilkSalt & Pepper to Taste Shake it up in the jar and pour it out. Good stuff!

Here’s A Quick Idea* Next time you stir up the egg mixture for your deviled eggs, add a can of premium quality lump crabmeat to the mix....makes for a truly unique and tasty change. 2nd Quick Idea * Fry some pork chops up in a skillet and then pour an entire jar of Salsa over top and simmer....makes Mexi-Chops. Ole’!

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 25THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 25cont. 31

NCOM News BytesFREEDOM OF CHOICE MAY COME WITH A PRICE TAG Pennsylvania motorcyclists successfully modi-fi ed their mandatory helmet law in 2003 to allow riders 18 and older the option of wearing a helmet, but now a lawmaker wants bikers who don’t wear a helmet to carry at least $10,000 in medical insurance to cover injuries if they crash. State Sen. Constance Williams says the requirement honors bikers’ freedom to ride helmetless while making sure they take fi nancial responsibility for their decision. Governor Ed Rendell, who signed the law that allows bikers to ride without a helmet, has said more Pennsylvanians die from smoking than motorcycle accidents, but Sen. Williams cites a national report being circulated among State Legislatures that says highway fa-talities are on the rise for the fi rst time in 20 years, linking the increase to deaths from motorcycle crashes.

NEW TWIST FOR HELMET LAW MODIFICATION Lost revenues from tourism has become a common theme for modifying helmet laws in states that claim motorcy-clists are riding around them and spending their vacation money in other states that don’t require helmets. Now Virginia has taken that argument a step further by pro-posing legislation that would allow motorcyclists to ride without a helmet on state scenic highways. On all other roads, police would not be allowed to stop riders for not wearing helmets unless they are stopped for another driv-ing offense such as speeding, making the helmet violation a secondary offense. Virginia motorcyclists are request-ing help from across the country to pass HB 2585, asking riders to write their Delegates to let them know that you would spend your tourism dollars in Virginia if the state allowed freedom of choice on its beautiful scenic byways. Bikers in Nebraska also want the right to make their own decisions about helmets, saying the current helmet law is costing the state $2-5 million a year during annual bike festivals in neighboring states because motorcyclists avoid riding through helmet law states. Motorcyclists are lobbying the Unicameral legislature in Lincoln to support LB 253, a bill that would allow riders 21 and older to ride without a helmet. ABATE of Nebraska is not asking for letters or phone calls to their legislators at this juncture, but they would like for out-of-state riders to visit their website at www.abateofne.com and fi ll out a simple online poll that will allow them to put together written testimony from motorcyclists from across the nation. ”ABATE of Nebraska has once again fi led legislation to establish Freedom Of Choice for adult motorcyclists,” said Tiger Mike Revere, state coordinator for ABATE of Oklahoma and member of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) Board of Directors. “They have appealed for our help, and I pledged NCOM’s support for their campaign. Unfortunately, I have the additional subject of the Helmet Law assault in Oklahoma to address.”

TELEVISION DOESN’T REFLECT REALITY Most people drive safer than television characters, according to a University of Alabama at Birmingham study. The UAB study of 79 prime time TV shows revealed that actors of-ten don’t buckle up before they drive and sometimes don’t wear helmets when they ride motorcycles and bicycles. The research study, published in the journal Injury Scienc-es, found that over four weeks the television characters buckled up only 62 percent of the time. The TV characters used motorcycle helmets only 47 percent of the time and bicycle helmets nine percent of the time. Research shows most Americans are much safer — buckling seat belts 80 percent of time, using motorcycle helmets 60 percent of the time bicycle helmets 40 percent of the time. “Since Americans watch more than four hours of TV per day, how safety behaviors are depicted on television can have tremendous infl uence on public perception of seatbelt and helmet use,” said Gerald McGwin, Ph.D., associate direc-tor for research at the Center for Injury Sciences and one of the study authors. Researchers also studied 21,670 television commercials that McGwin says present a safer depiction, with seatbelt use by 86 percent of individuals, motorcycle helmet use 100 percent and bike helmet use 84 percent.

CONNECTICUT BIKERS WANT TO RAISE THE BAR Connecticut State Reps Wilbur and Zalaski have co-spon-sored a bill to repeal their 15-inch handlebar height law. CT statute # 14-80i(b) reads: “No person shall operate a motorcycle on a highway or in any parking area for ten or more motor vehicles if the motorcycle is equipped with handlebars that are more than fi fteen inches in height above the uppermost portion of the seat when the seat is depressed by the weight of the operator.” Rep. Wilber, who co-sponsored this bill with Rep Zalazki, had an OLR legislative report done that concluded that high handle-bars are not a safety issue. The report also found that there has been a trend across the country to change the height restriction law with 16 states completely repealing the law. HB 6937 is currently under consideration in the Transportation Committee, and would completely repeal the handlebar law 14-80i(b), allowing Connecticut riders to decide for themselves what height their handlebars should be.

VIRGINIA RIDERS BESIDE THEMSELVES Virginia is only one of two states that specifi cally prohibit two motorcycles to ride two abreast in a traffi c lane, but riders there are hoping to change that. HB 1808 has passed out of Transportation Committee and bikers are urging their Delegates to support the bill when it comes up for a vote. They argue, among other things, that two motorcycles abreast in a traffi c lane aids in making the motorcycles more visible to other traffi c, and that in larger groups of


You know you‛re getting old when25. Your houseplants are alive, and you can‛t smoke any of them.

24. Having sex in a twin bed is out of the ques-tion.

23. You keep more food than beer in the fridge.

22. 6:00 AM is when you get up, not when you go to bed.

21. You hear your favorite song in an elevator.

20. You watch the Weather Channel more than once a day.

19. Your friends marry and divorce instead of �hook up� and �break up.�

18. You go from 130 days of vacation time to 14.

17. Jeans and a sweater no longer qualify as �dressed up.�

16. You‛re the one calling the police because those %&@# kids next door won‛t turn down the stereo.

15. Older relatives feel comfortable telling sex jokes around you.

14. You don‛t know what time Taco Bell closes anymore.

13. Your car insurance goes down and your car payments go up.

12. You feed your dog Science Diet instead of McDonald‛s leftovers.

11. Sleeping on the couch makes your back hurt.

10. You take naps.

9. Dinner and a movie is the whole date instead of the beginning of one.

8. Eating a basket of chicken wings at 3 AM would severely upset, rather than settle, your stomach.

7. You go to the drug store for ibuprofen and ant-acid, not condoms and pregnancy tests.

6. A $4.00 bottle of wine is no longer �pretty good shit.�

5. You actually eat breakfast food at breakfast time.

4. �I just can‛t drink the way I used to� replaces �I‛m never going to drink that much again.�

3. 90% of the time you spend in front of a com-puter is for real work.

2. When you Þ nd out your friend is pregnant you congratulate them instead of asking �What the hell happened?�

1. And the number one sign you are getting old is: You read this entire list looking desperately for one sign that doesn‛t apply to you and can‛t Þ nd one! Thanks for sending the smiles on this George! Re-member to think of yourselves as a Þ ne wine�you get better with age.


THE RHYTHM PIGSIf you look up the word Rhythm in the dictionary, there are sev-eral defi nitions that ultimately come to the same conclusion, rhythm is a pattern of repeated elements. That general defi ni-tion would be comparative to the level of extraordinary talent within our artists of the month - The Rhythm Pigs. With emergent magnetism these four artists have gathered the ears

of their listeners and produced loyal fans up and down the east coast. What is the recipe for Rhythm Pigs? Combine former members of the Jimmy Van Zant Band and the BluzBlasters, sauté over high heat for about 6 years, stir in a little jazz, blues, a little rock and a little country. Just continue to rouse until you have a soupy mix of south-ern rock fusion. On vocals you have Mike Fiemster, who has no issue with strumming his harp or his acoustic guitar while entertaining you with his rhythmic moves & fancy footwork . On lead and slide guitar we have the incred-ible Jimmy Williams, a defi nite show stopper whose magi-cal chords have been compared to many legendary guitar players. Holding it down on the bass line, is the beautiful & extremely talented Wendi Phillips. Laying the ground work & keeping things rockin’ on drums, we have the awesome, Timmy Fodrey, by whom we can thank for this culmination of musical excellence. All together we have a hardwork-ing group of individuals who respectfully re invent music through their cover pieces as well as their originals. What do they do? With full force intensity they rock every ralley, club, and college that they grace. They have toured with such rock and roll dignitaries as Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Charlie Dan-iels Band, David Allan Coe, Marshall Tucker Band, Molly Hatchet, Hank Williams JR, Savoy Brown, Blue Oyster Cult, CCR, Hank Williams III and many more. Every Sunday eve-ning they host an Open Mic Night at BayHaven Grill in York-town, Va. They have produced two CDs and have plenty to sell at every show. Currently, our four artists are working on an all original album which will be on sale just in time to be a stocking stuffer this Christmas. Hard working, hard rocking, and ever loving of their loyal fans, we thank our artists of the month for keeping true to the music and being among the fi nest recipes Virginia can offer to the musical community.“We’d like to give a special thanks to our manager, Ron-nie Bruffy who we love working with. He’s put a lot of hard work in through the years to keep us rollin’. I respect all the musicians that I have & I feel very blessed to have them.”…Timmy Fodrey

If you would like to book the Rhythm Pigs for your next rally, run or gathering, contact Timmy Fodrey at (757) 286-6001 or Ronny Bruffy @ Swine Management (757) 285-5720. Also visit them at their website www.rhythmpigs.com to pur-chase their CDs or merchandise & check out where they’ll playing throughout 2007.

with Jen Martin


THUNDERTHUNDERon the roadon the roadLast month I froze my rear off riding to Maryland in the fog. I decided the next month I would take you on a real adventure. Recently you may have seen a movie called Blood Diamond starring Leonardo DeCaprio. If you haven’t, the movie detailed the bloody civil war that occurred in Sierra Leone and brought to light the horrible illegal diamond trade that occurs in the country. Now I am not much for movies so I fl ew to Sierra Leone to see the capitol city for myself. What I saw shocked me, amazed me, and in a lot of ways, changed me. First I fl ew across the Atlantic for the thousandth time (military trip) and stopped for a night in Brussels. I could write a whole article on the party scene there however I would have to watch the video I took because I don’t remember much! The next day we fl ew into Lungi International Airport, Freetown, Sierra Leone. We stepped off the plane and were greeted by burned out wrecks of airplanes riddled with bullet holes, and a burnt out helicopter fuselage. Now it was my understanding we would be taking an old Russian helicopter for a 7 minute ride to the main part of Freetown. The jungles are so thick throughout the countryside the 40-mile trip would have taken us roughly 6 hours. After that long 7 minutes on the helicopter, I was wondering if we would have been better off taking the jungle route. Let’s just say the following day that same helicopter had a controlled crash due to a fi re. That explains the collection of wrecked aircraft. Sierra Leone is a country that has been torn apart by civil war for over a decade. Some of the locals tell me the war ended because the people were just sick of fi ghting. The government in Sierra Leone lacks basic infrastructure. We were informed by our driver that before Christmas if you were off the coast on a boat you could not see the city because there was NO power anywhere except the hotels that had generators. The government, with the help from foreign aid, has now supplied power to much of the street-lights. The city is relatively peaceful in parts due to the presence of UN troops as well as a large contingent of mostly British soldiers and sailors that make up the IMATT. One thing I learned about the people of Sierra Leone is that despite the modern conveniences that most of us in the US take for granted, they are an extremely positive and resourceful people. One of the most moving parts of my trip was when I was taking a tour of the water front with a few locals. They showed me a large fl ight of steps that ascended from the dock to the street on the hill above. They were made of cracked stone and appeared old, yet they seem to give off a strong energy. I was told that these were the “Steps to Freedom”. For those of you who do not know, Freetown Sierra Leone was colonized by freed slaves that returned from the US after the Civil War. These very steps that I was standing on, were the steps the free men and women would run up after they left the shackles and boats behind them and this meant they were home and they were free. Talk about chills. Another thing that amazed me was the religious tolerance that I saw on all corners. It did not matter who you worshipped, Muslims and Christians walked together in the street and even prayed in the same make shift buildings they used as churches and mosques. I made friends with a man named Ali who showed us around town and introduced us to all sorts of people. I guess when you don’t have much you cherish the things you have and do not have the time to criticize other people for their beliefs but rather be thankful you are alive. I think no matter how rich or poor a country’s people are; we can all learn something from each other. After two weeks I boarded a very crowded ferryboat that took me back to the airport in absence of the helicopter, which was a good thing. There is so much more to this trip I did not have the room to write about. Ask me about it sometime. On the way home we swung by London for a night, had a pint, and slept for quite awhile. This trip, I made many new friends, learned many new things, and reaffi rmed a very old saying. “The world is an open book, to not travel is to read only a page.”

Mike “Hammer”

Photography by Joseph HernandezSierra LeoneSierra Leone


NCOM News Bytesmotorcycles, riding two abreast keeps the overall length of the group shorter, and discourages other vehicles from dangerously cutting into the group - an issue motorcy-clists riding in groups often face.

OH DEER! According to transportation offi cials, nearly 200 people are killed nationwide each year in crashes involving wildlife, mostly deer. The collisions cost drivers almost $1.5 billion each year in property damage, deaths and injuries. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) says they are trying to cut those numbers down. Flash lights and motion sensors are just a few of many solutions transportation experts are considering, and CDOT has put up a number of wildlife escape ramps on US 550 that allow wildlife to cross the road without getting stuck in traffi c. CDOT says animals are getting more used to the ramps, even teaching their young how to use them. On US 40, CDOT also installed a series of unusual look-ing refl ectors to create fl ashes of light at 54 angles, hori-zontally and vertically, when a vehicle’s light hits them. According to CDOT, the refl ected light bounces back and forth across the road, deterring deer and other wildlife from crossing. Drivers cannot see the light because of the way it’s refl ected. CDOT also hopes to install a mo-tion detector system on US 160, that when triggered by a deer or other animal will cause a large light to go on to let an oncoming driver see there’s an animal on or near the road. The light may also startle the animal and keep it off of the road. Meanwhile, an eight state research group met in Minnesota to brainstorm ideas for keeping wildlife off the road, and their leading proposal involves placing canisters of real or synthetic wolf and coyote urine near the roadways, hoping the scent of predators will cause the animals to fl ee.

INDONESIA INSTITUTES NEW ANTI-MOTORCYCLE LAWS New motorcycle lanes went into effect in Jakarta in January. Motorcyclists are now supposed to use the “slow” left lanes on city streets and police began getting tough on riders by issuing more than a thousand traffi c tickets the fi rst day to bikers not riding in the designated lanes. Trials are held on the spot and take about 5 min-utes. The head of traffi c at the Jakarta Police, Sr. Comr. Djoko Susilo, said he hoped the rule would increase order in the streets and reduce the number of traffi c accidents. The left-lane rule is not the only new require-ment for motorcyclists. They are also being told to keep their headlights on during the day, so that other vehicles can see them more easily. The city is also considering banning them from entering main thoroughfares during peak hours, recommending that motorcyclists park their bikes and make use of the city’s busway instead. Of 7.23 million vehicles in Jakarta , 64.1 percent, or 4.64 million,

are motorcycles. The Jakarta Transportation Board has estimated that more than three million motorbikes are on the city’s roads every day, compared to 2.5 million cars. Out of the 4,206 road accidents reported last year, 3,826 involved motorcyclists. But the government believes emissions tests may be the best way to curb motorcycle growth, so the Jakarta administration has been called upon to enforce stricter emissions testing for motorcycles to control the increasing number of motorbikes, up 15% from the previous year. The State Ministry for the Environ-ment said motorbikes that fail to meet emissions stan-dards could be banned from the city’s streets. 60% of the motorcycles tested in spot checks did not meet emissions standards set in 1993, so the ministry predicts that even more would fail the newer, tougher emission standard issued in 2006.

JESSE JAMES FINED BY CARB California air regula-tors have issued $271,250 in total fi nes against Jesse James of West Coast Choppers, the co-producer and host of “Monster Garage” and “Motorcycle Mania,” saying that 50 of his custom-built choppers ran afoul of Cali-fornia‘s clean-air rules. California Air Resources Board offi cials said their inspectors found that the monster bikes sold between 1998 and 2005 did not have state certifi ed emissions equipment on their exhaust and fuel systems, resulting in these bikes spewing hydrocarbons at up to 10 times the state limits. The market for custom-built motorcycles has taken off in recent years, and prominent bike builders have achieved celebrity status, but progres-sively stricter new emissions regulations from the EPA are already impacting the motorcycle industry.

WEIRD NEWS: DRUNKEN DOUGHNUTS A Pontiac, MI motorcyclist gets sued, then sent to prison, for his actions that took place outside a bar earlier this year as he was “doing doughnuts” in the parking lot when he struck and injured a woman who was standing outside the saloon. Now he’ll be riding a prison van to Stateville Correctional Center , where he was sentenced to one year after plead-ing guilty to failure to report an accident with injury. He was also ordered to pay restitution, and faces a lawsuit from the injured woman who is seeking $50,000 each from the rider, the owner of the motorcycle and the saloon owner.

QUOTABLE QUOTE: “We, too, born to freedom, and be-lieving in freedom, are willing to fi ght to maintain freedom. We, and all others who believe as deeply as we do, would rather die on our feet than live on our knees.” Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1882 - 1945), 32nd President of the United States

by Houndog The AMD (American Motorcycle Dealer) hosted its 3rd annual international Offi cial Championship of Custom Bike Building, now regarded by many builders and industry insiders as the world’s most prestigious open bike build-ing competition on the planet. It was held at the Thunder Road facility during Sturgis Bike Week last August. The 2006 competition was hailed as the best yet. Four classes of competition were judged, Freestyle, Metric, Modifi ed Harley-Davidson, and Production Manu-facturer Class. There were a total of 77 competitors from the United States and ten other countries. They fi elded a stunning line-up of 100 bikes which all who witnessed agreed was the highest standard of custom bike design Freestyle Class Results Builder Bike Name Country1. Chicara Motorcycles Chicara Art Japan2. Thunder Bike Spectacula Germany3. SE Service Esox Lucius Sweden4. Covington’s Cycle City Lucifer II USA5. Steele Customs Fascinator USA6. Chemical Chopper Oomega Finland7. Wayne Kemp Customs Havoc USA8. Red Baron Choppers Revenge Belgium9. Roland Sands Design KRV5 Tracker USA10. Jim Nasi Sangre Azul USA

AMD World Championship Bike Build-OfWorld Championship Bike Build-OfAMD World Championship Bike Build-Ofand engineering ever brought together in one place. Judg-ing for the awards was done by the competitors them-selves, 66 of the 77 competitors voted. Eleven additional VIP judges selected from the custom press and vendor community rounded out the expertise and perspectives that scrutinized the entries. This month we will start with the winner of the Freestyle Class competition. Chicara Nagata of Chicara Motorcycles in Saga, Ja-pan, took top honors in the Freestyle Class with Chicara Art, a hand crafted steel, aluminum and chrome tribute to the 1937 model U Harley-Davidson. Chicara Art combines the popularity of retro-styling with the World Championship competitor community’s desire to honor originality, precision and high levels of one-off engineering.


Have you ever come across a cool shop, bar, restaurant or interesting place while riding, that you’d like more people to know about? Well, each month we feature places such as these that have been found by our readers so that others can go check out these gems of the road for themselves. If you’d like to turn us on to someplace neat that you’ve found… email us at [email protected] & we’ll be there!


Next time you are in the Historical Capital of Richmond, Virginia be sure to stop by and visit Jason and DeAna and the “riding” family at Absolut Cycle Worx!Located at 5016 Old Midlothian Tnpk, Richmond, VA., a small shop with big time service…. Jason Kincaid , owner, was born into the military family of Joe and Donna Kincaid and has seen the world. But motorcycles are his passion! He is a graduate of MMI (Orlando, FL) & is a Factory Certifi ed Technician on late model Harley-Davidsons,V-Rods, Buell, Screamin’Eagles and Dyno-jet operations. Jason has many years of experience work-ing on motorcycles, ( you may have met him at Richmond Harley-Davidson) but is not limited to just HD’s. He does service and repair to Customs, Metric and Sport Bikes, old and new. He carries new and used parts for sale & offers bike restoration and does consignments also. On the occasion you just can’t fi nd that part you need, call Jason. He’ll fi nd it for you!In the offi ce of Absolut, you’ll fi nd a bright ray of sunshine by the name of DeAna. She’ll take care of everything that needs to be lined up & processed on whatever services you’ll need for your bike. She can also help you pick out something cool from their selection of riding apparel & accessories. Absolut Cycle Worx’ hours of operation are Mon-Thur 10am-6pm, Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm. You can reach them at (804) 497-7000, by email @ [email protected] , or just ride on in and visit!Join them on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th. , 2:00pm -8pm, for their Kicking Off The 2007 Riding Season Party. Ride in and be sure you’re wearing “the green”. Park-ing is limited, but there will always be room for bikes! They’ll have plenty of food & “beverage”. Bands include, Vivid Darkness, Rhythm Pigs, Black Cash, and Cut The Architects Hand. The RHYTHM PIGS are bringing Jager’Miester as their sponsor along with all kinds of give aways! There will be a BIKE SHOW, BURN OUT PIT, WET T-SHIRT, TATTOO AND BEST MAN’S CHEST CONTEST. Prizes will be awarded! Cover charge is only

$10.00 to enjoy a full afternoon & evening of music, good times & fantastic company!If you miss them at the Party, you can meet them at the Virginia Beach Bike Classic, April 20th-22nd, The Horse Smoke Out , June 22nd-24th, Rockahock Bike Classic, June 2nd-4th, Myrtle Beach, Oct 4th-7th and Hogs on the High Seas Cruise, Nov. 4th-11th.

~ Beth ~


like you’re an old friend, and after talk-ing to Ron, you leave having made a new friend. He tours many shows with his wife Ruth and son-in-law Brad Collier who is also his assistant.Bike entries ranged from the numerous custom shops to many private builders such as the 1st Place in Stock class won by Shenandoah Valley resident Larry Crab-tree with his 2003 Electra Glide Classic from Shenandoah H-D, Staunton, Vir-ginia. Jim & Linda Habercam, Prince Frederick, MD., took 1st (Linda) and 2nd (Jim), in Radical Sportster and Bill Campbell’s Rolling

Judging for the Timonium Mid-Atlan-tic event was by the International Master Bike Builders Asso-ciation (IMBBA), an independent associa-tion with their events being on a point system throughout the year to attract the best of the best at their judged events. The Mid-Atlantic show next year increases in points from 12 to 16 putting it in the same level with Daytona and many shows in California , Florida , and Canada . Having attended this event for several years now, each year it gets bigger and better, so make plans for next year’s event. P.S…park at the Park & Ride lot on Deerco Rd. and save 45 minutes sit-ting in traffi c.

Check out www.CycleShow.net for upcoming events from American Rec-reational Promotions.

Mid-Atlantic Motorcycle Show – Timonium, MDFeb 9th – 11th, 2007

By Garth Hines

Once again the folks at American Recre-ational Promotions

have provided riders with an extravaganza of custom V twin and

non-domestic bikes and accessories, an

array of the country’s top custom builders,

and a full gambit of new bike dealers with everything the motorcycle industry has new for 2007 for specta-

tors to sample and compare. The 5th

annual show at Ti-monium Fairgrounds

in Maryland for the 3 days of February 9 -11th was host to 500 vendors, more

than 250 custom and antique bikes, and

42,000 attendees some riding their bikes in the near freezing tempera-

tures to get the preferred parking at the entrance. The event is designed to be a show covering every

aspect and segment of the motorcycle

industry, showcasing the newest and most

innovative bikes. The show provides

a great family at-mosphere from the

Shiners making bal-loon animals for the kids to autographs from the legendary

Gary Nixon, Doug Keim and the crowd favorite extraordinaire, Ron

Finch. Ron was strategically located at one of the main aisle crossings displaying his bikes of creative

craftsmanship and art projects from fl ow-

ers and butterfl ies to dinosaurs with their babies all available

for purchase as a memorable keepsake. Ron has got to be the most personable bike builder/artist that I’ve

ever met. When you walk up to view his

wares, you’re greeted

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 38The Joker’s WildThe Joker’s Wild

The Joker’s WildThe Joker’s WildRecently overlooked at the CMA ceremonies, these songswere appreciated to anyone who’s been there……12. I Hate Every Bone in Her Body But Mine.11. It’s Hard to Kiss the Lips At Night That Chewed Your Ass All Day.10. If the Phone Don’t Ring, You’ll Know It’s Me. 9. I Liked You Better Before I Got to Know You. 8. I Still Miss You Baby, But My Aim’s Gettin’ Better. 7. I Wouldn’t Take Her to a Dog Fight ‘Cause I’m Afraid She’d Win. 6. I’ll Marry You Tomorrow, But Let’s Honeymoon Tonight. 5. I’m So Miserable Without You, It’s Like You’re Still Here. 4. If I Had Shot You When I First Wanted To, I’d Be Out Of Prison By Now. 3. My Wife Ran Off With My Best Friend and I Sure Do Miss Him. 2. She Got the Ring and I Got the Finger. *** And the number 1 Country Song is: 1. I Ain’t Never Gone to Bed With Ugly Women But I’ve Sure Woke Up With a Few.

As a young minister, I was asked by a funeral director to hold a graveside service for a homeless man, with no family or friends, who had died while traveling through the area. The funeral was to be held at a cemetery way back in the country, and this man would be the fi rst to be laid to rest there. As I was not familiar with the backwoods area, I became lost; and being a typical man did not stop for directions. I fi nally arrived an hour late. I saw the backhoe and the crew, who was eating lunch, but the hearse was nowhere in sight. I apologized to the workers for my tardiness, and stepped to the side of the open grave, where I saw the vault lid already in place. I assured the workers I would not hold them long, but this was the proper thing to do. The workers gathered around, still eating their lunch! I poured out my heart and soul. As I preached the workers began to say “Amen,” “Praise the Lord,” and “Glory,” I preached, and I preached, like I’d never preached before: from Genesis all the way to Revelations. I closed the lengthy service with a prayer and walked to my car. I felt I had done my duty for the homeless man and that the crew would leave with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication, in spite of my tardiness. As I was opening the door and taking off my coat, I over-heard one of the workers saying to another, “I ain’t never seen anything like this before, and I’ve been putting in septic tanks for twenty years.”

Panhead was at the mall the other day eating at the food court. He noticed a teenager sitting next to him. The teenager had spiked hair in all different colors: green, red, yellow, orange, and blue. Panhead kept staring at him. The teenager would look over and fi nd Panhead staring at him, every time. When the teenager had enough, he sarcastically asked, “What’s the matter old man, never done anything wild in your life?” Panhead did not bat an eye in his response, “Got really drunk once and had sex with a parrot. I was just wondering if you were the end result of that painful encounter.”

Why Do Men Snore When They Lie On Their Backs?Because their balls fall over their butt-holes and they vapor lock.

A crusty old lady dies and goes to heaven. She’s chatting it up with St. Peter at the Pearly Gates when all of a sudden she hears the most awful, blood curdling screams. “Don’t worry about that,” says St. Peter, “It’s only someone having the holes put into her shoulder blades for wings.” The old lady looks a little uncomfortable but carries on with the conversation. Ten minutes later, there are more blood curdling screams. “Oh my God,” says the old lady, “now what is happening?” “Not to worry,” says St. Peter, “She’s just having her head drilled to fi t the halo.” “I can’t do this,” says the old lady, “I’m going to hell.” You can’t go there,” says St. Peter. “You’ll be raped and taken advantage of.” “Maybe so, says the old lady, but I’ve already got the holes for that”

A guy falls asleep on the beach for several hours and gets a horrible sunburn. He goes to the hospital and is promptly admitted after being diagnosed with second degree burns. With his skin already starting to blister and seeing the severe pain he is in, the doctor prescribes an IV with saline, electrolytes, a sedative, and a Viagra pill every four hours. The nurse, who is rather astounded, asks, “What good will Viagra do him, Doctor? The Doctor calmly replies, “It’ll keep the sheets off his legs.”

One winter morning a husband and wife in northern Minnesota were listening to the radio during breakfast. They heard the announcer say, “We are going to have 8 to 10 inches of snow today. You must park your car on the even-numbered side of the street, so the snowplows can get through.” So the good wife went out and moved her car. A week later while they are eating breakfast again, the radio announcer said, “We are expecting 10 to 12 inches of snow today. You must park your car on the odd-numbered side of the street, so the snowplows can get through.” The good wife went out and moved her car again. The next week they are again having breakfast, when the radio announcer says, “We are expecting 12 to 14 inches of snow today. You must park...” Then the electric power went out. The good wife was very upset, and with a worried look on her face she said, “Honey, I don’t know what to do. Which side of the street do I need to park on so the snowplows can get through?” With the love and understanding in his voice that only men who are married to blondes exhibit, the husband gently replied, “Why don’t you just leave it in the garage this time?”

Mildred, the church gossip, and self-appointed monitor of the church’s morals, kept sticking her nose in to other people’s business. Several members did not approve of her extra curricular activities, but feared her enough to maintain their silence. She made a mistake, how-ever, when she accused George, a new member, of being an alcoholic after she saw his old pickup parked in front of the towns’ only bar one afternoon. She emphatically told George (and several others) that ev-eryone seeing it there would know what he was doing. George, a man of few words, stared at her for a moment and just turned and walked away. He didn’t explain, defend, or deny... he said nothing. Later that evening, George quietly parked his pickup in front of Mildred’s house... walked home... and left it there all night long.


2nd Annual Northeast Motorcycle Expo

February 17th & 18th, 2007 Fredericksburg, VA

by Garth HInesIt was another chilly weekend in central Va., so what better time to head over to Fredericksburg for the Kev-Marv Productions 2nd Annual Mid-Atlantic Motorcycle Expo.http://www.kevmarv.com The event featured a hall full of vendors to satisfy all your motorcycling and accessory shopping needs with a selection of leather apparel, pins, patches, and helmets. The Law Offi ces of Tom McGrath were on hand with Attorney Matt Danielson and VCOM Direc-tor, Jim Cannon, to assist folks with questions and issues about their rights to ride. John Guillemette was on hand again this year with his original oil on canvas art works. An array of dealers representing Honda,Yamaha,Suzuki, Harley Davidson represent-ed by Waugh Enterprises HD and the folks from East Coast HD, Coleman Power Sports with the latest Ducati’s. The ever new stylish Victory from Victory Southern Maryland was there with some of their custom bikes and products, and the New dealership of Burt Shand’s Victory of Fredericksburg which will be having their 1st open house this Spring. Sev-eral performances throughout both days by Stunt Tours amazing 16ft round MotoSphere with 2 riders passing within inches of each other and shows by Heidi and the beautiful girls of the Iron Angles from Cody Wy. In-between performances, folks were kept entertained with the Southern Rock sounds of Cross Cut Saw as the beautiful lovely ladies, Brandy and Marissa of Renegade Classics Outlet Store Wood-bridge, signed posters and did some modeling on show bikes (www.nova.rcosva.com). Several build-ers and custom shops were on linehand along with celebrities Hugh King the “Chopper King”, and Rus-sell Mitchell of Exile Cycle Ca. with several excellent examples of the builders world famous “minimalist” style builds. To represent the 1/4 mile racing interest, The Fastest Woman in the World on an American V-twin, Connie Cohen with husband/crew chief Marc, brought their 2 racing Iron Horses, the Pro Stock Su-zuki and Pro Stock American V-twin Buell. Connie had set the record at Rockingham, NC., at 188mph /7.16 sec. She has sponsorship from Vance Leathers and S100 fi nish care products but is an independent racer looking for key sponsorship to best utilize and build on there 12 years of racing experience and speed (www.ccriderracing.cc). Overall a nice week-end with the exception of Mark Martin’s 2nd place fi nish. To check out upcoming shows from Kev/Marv productions, visit them at www.kevmarv.com.


It’s important for you to know who your friends are out there when you hit the road!

Welcome to our Biker Friendly Directory. The following is a list of establishments throughout

the Mid-Atlantic states that want you to know that they’re here for YOU. Whether it’s a bike dealer, service shop, restaurant, bar or any other type of business that welcomes our biking community

through their doors, you can count on our family of friends to always welcome you in. ALL of our regular advertisers can also be found, in bold,

throughout this listing – they are the best of the best at what they do, making a special showing to give you the fi nest in everything that they have to offer. Most of them ride too, so they know exactly what you want & need. The staff here at Thunder Roads is greatly appreciative of their continuous

support each month, for they are the sole fi nancial supporters of this magazine – WE WOULD NOT

EXIST WITHOUT THEM! So please give them the support that they truly deserve for being with us & drop by their shops for a visit. Let them know that you saw them here in Thunder Roads. If you

would like to join our Thunder Roads family of Biker Friendly Places, please give us a call (757) 831-2264 or email [email protected]. We are the # 1 Free Biker Publication in the Mid-Atlantic giving

you our best. “Where There’s Bikes….There’s Going To Be Thunder….THUNDER ROADS”

All American Harley-Davidson8126 Leonardtown Rd.Hughesville, MD 20637

(888) 833-2REVwww.allamericanh-d.com

Harley Davidson of Washington9407 Livingston Rd.Ft. Washington, MD

(888) HDFEVERwww.hdwash.com

Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City10716 Ocean Gateway

Berlin, MD(410) 629-1599

Harley-Davidson/Buell Shop of Williamsport

10210 Governor Lane Blvd - Suite 2004

Williamsport, MD 21795(301) 223-1800 or (301) 416-3900

Harley-Davidson of Maryland Inc7010 Troy Hill DriveElkridge, MD 21075

(410) 796-1044www.harleydavidsonofmaryland.com

Haus of Trikes12636 Sunset Ave. Unit F5

Ocean City, MD(410) 213-2421

www.hausoftrikes.com

North Carolina

Curly’s Harley-Davidson/Buell3825 Reidsville RoadWinston-Salem, NC

336-722-3106

Davis Harley-Davidson2215 Hanford Rd.

Burlington, NC 27215(336) 227-1261

www.davishd.com

Kitty Hawk Harley-Davidson8739 Highway 158

Harbinger, NC 27941(252) 491-2091

www.kittyhawkhd.com

Nag’s Head Harley-Davidson4104 S. Dare Trail

Milepost 13 (Highway 159 Bypass)Nags Head, NC 27959

(252) 255-5922www.nagsheadhd.com

Outer Banks Harley-Davidson1223 U.S. Highway 17 South

Elizabeth City, NC 27909(252) 338-8866

www.outerbankshd.com

Virginia

Al’s Towing & Nicky’s Custom5570 Raby Rd

Norfolk, VA 23541(407) 455-6667

www.alstowing.com

American Legend Custom Motorcycles10611 Wards Rd

Rustburg, VA 24588(434) 821-5303

www.americanlegendcustomcycles.com

Bayside Harley-Davidson3403 High StreetPortsmouth, VA(757) 397-5550

www.baysidehd.com

Black Wolf Harley-Davidson18100 Black Wolf Lane

Abington, VA 24211(276) 628-5822

Burcham Cycles, Inc.333 B Industrial DrivePetersburg, VA 23803

(804) 526-2300www.burchamscycles.com

Busted Knuckles Custom Cycles128-4 Windy Hill Lane

Winchester, VA540-545-8733

Catlin Kustom Cycles1909 Boulevard

Colonial Heights, VA804526-2208

www.ckccustoms.com

Chix Custom Cycles3745 Shore Drive

Virginia Beach, VA(757) 363-2453

www.chixcustomcycles.com

Classic Twins19363 Brandy RoadBrandy Station, VA

(540) 829-0313

Coleman Power Sports435 S. Washington St.

Falls Church, VA(800) 888-3619

www.wherethepoweris.com

Coleman Power Sports14105 Telegraph Rd.

Woodbridge, VA(703) 497-1500

www.wherethepoweris.com

Colonial Harley-Davidson/Buell1701 Temple Parkway

Prince George, VA(804) 861-4700

Cycle Creations4230 Lankford Hwy

New Church, VA 23415(757) 854-4144

Departure Bike Works5216 Hull St

Richmond, VA(804) 231-0244

www.departure.com

Devil Dawg Custom Cycles14512 Lee Road Units C, D & E

Chantilly, VA 20151(703) 378-4115 or (888) 550-9810www.devildawgcustomcycles.com

East Coast Harley/Buell17975 Main Street

Dumfries, VA(703) 221-3757

Full House Cycles100 Full House Drive

Winchester, VA540-667-0088

Gator Hole Powersports342 Mecklenburg DriveChase City, VA 23924

(434) 372-1771

Grove’s Winchester Harley-Davidson/Buell, Inc.

140 Independence Drive (Route 50 East)Winchester, VA 22602

(540) 662-4468

Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson/Buell6450 George Washington Memorial

HighwayYorktown, VA(757) 872-7223

Harley-Davidson of Lynchburg20452 Timberlake Road

Lynchburg, VA434-237-2381

Harley-Davidson of Wytheville430 Lithia RoadWytheville, VA276-228-9000

Iron Core977 Chimney Hill Shopping Center


Iron Sports Custom Cycles3520 Williamson Road

Roanoke, VA(540) 366-0042

Jim McClure’sMaster Performance Cycles

3707 Rochambeau Dr.Williamsburg Va. 23188

757 566-0544 Fax [email protected]

King’s Restoration36 Cloverdale Pl.Cloverdale, VA(540) 966-3911

Mark Long Cycleswww.marklongcycles.com

68 Cool Springs RdFredericksburg, VA

(540) 899-6700&

22890 Quicksilver DrDulles, VA

(703) 661-8600

Nicky’s Custom Auto & Cycle5570 Raby Rd.

Norfolk, VA 23502(757) 461-7097, (757) 455-6667Nicky’s cell: (757) 407-2696

www.alstowing.com

Outkasst Cycles3907 Bellson Park DrMidlothian, VA 23112

(804) 744-7848“SCREW STOCK”

Outlanders4768 US Highway 211 West

Luray, VA 22835(540) 743-2040

www.outlanders.wsemail: [email protected]

Patriot Harley-Davidson9739 Lee Highway

Fairfax, VA(703) 352-5400

ProStreet Cycles8075 Jefferson Davis Hwy

Richmond, VA 23237(804) 271-7766

www.prostreetcycles.net

Revolutionary Harley-Davidson6401 Richmond RdLightfoot, VA 23090

(757) 565-5122

Richmond Harley-Davidson10441 Washington Highway

Glen Allen, VA(804) 550-9280

Riders, Inc928 Cycle LaneSouth Hill, VA877-913-1379

www.ridersinc.net

Roanoke Valley Harley-Davidson/Buell1925 Peters Creek Road

Roanoke, VA 24017(540) 562-5424

Rob’s Used Harley PartsHerndon, VA

(703) 476-6607www.robsusedharleyparts.com

Rocker Originals441 Grafton Drive

Yorktown, VA 23692(757) 898-RIDE

www.rockeroriginals.com

Rocket Rogers Old 97 Choppers2830 Riverside DriveDanville, VA 24540

434-792-3132www.rocketrogersmotorcycles.com

Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell213 Rolling Thunder Lane

Staunton, VA(540) 213-7433

www.shenhd.com

Southside Harley-Davidson/Buell, Inc.385 North Witchduck Rd


South Richmond Harley-Davidson Shop10011 Hull Street

Richmond, VA(804) 745-3445

Thunder Road Harley-Davidson4960 Riverside Drive

Danville, VA 24541-5630(434) 822-BIKE (2453)

www.davishd.com

Tidewater Motorcycles Inc.4324 Godwin Blvd

Suffolk, VA(757) 255-4200

Tom’s Custom Cycles7203A George Washington Memorial Hwy

Rt17Yorktown, VA

(757) 898-7702

Waugh Enterprises385 Waugh Boulevard

Orange, VA(540) 672-5550

Whitt’s Harley-Davidson/Buell Sales, Inc.9321 Center Street

Manassas, VA(703) 369-7077

www.whittshd.com

West Virginia

Cole Harley-Davidson1804 Bland St.

Bluefi eld, WV 24701(304) 324-8116

Mike’s Harley-DavidsonHighway 119 Preece Bottom Rd

Delbartown, WV 25670(304) 426-4241

Virginia

Dye Art Custom Airbrush & Graphics200 Commerce Circle, Suite L

Yorktown, VA 23693(757) 596-1867www.dyeart.com

Hollywood Signs (vehicle graphics, decals)23202 Airport St.

Petersburg, VA 23833(804) 733-8956

Epstein, Sandler & Flora P.C.413 W. York StreetNorfolk, VA 236101-800-9-THE-LAW

The Law Offi ce of Tom McGrath1-800-321-8968

www.motorcyclevirginia.com

Virginia

Diva Customs501 17th St.

Virginia Beach, VA 23451(757) 428-DIVA

www.divacustoms.com

Fast Lane Biker Gear & Accessories166 S. Rosemont Rd. Ste. G

Virginia Beach, VA 23452(757) 340-4446

Harley-Haven1920Atlantic Ave


Mr. D’s Leather & Novelties9902A Warwick BlvdNewport News, VA

(757) 599-4070

Reeps Riders3601B E. Ocean View Ave

Norfolk, VA 23518(757) 362-3971

www.reepsriders.com

Renegade Classics14575 Jefferson Davis Hwy

Woodbridge, VA 22191703-499-9533

www.nova.rcosva.com

Route 17 – The Rider’s Highway3403 High Street (Hwy 17)

Portsmouth, VA 23707(757) 967-8268

[email protected]

The Shade Treewww.myshadetree.net

757-435-2457

Trends6405 Williamson Road

Roanoke, VA(540) 362-9790

West Virginia

C & A Bike Accessories1615 Winchester Ave. Unit B

Martinsburg, WV 25401(304) 263-8229

www.cabikeaccessories.com

Clark Insurance Agency4709 Mason Rest Ct.

Richmond, VA(804) 271-1961

North Carolina

Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge,Sports Center & Marina169 Walnut Island Blvd

Grandy, NC 27939(252) 453-4153

www.outerbanksbikerally.com

Dirty Dick’s Crab HouseOn the Bypass, Hwy 158

Kill Devil Hills, NC(252) 449-CRAB

Krazy’s SaloonRt 1 South

Rockingham, NC 28379(757) 327-1837(910) 610-3839

Mako Mike’s RestaurantMP 7 – US 158 Bypass

Kill Devil Hills, NC252-480-1919

Virginia

Boneshakers Saloon1297 General Booth BlvdVirginia Beach, VA 23451

(757) 961-8382www.boneshakerssaloon.com

Club Car Café18497 Dunne Ave

Parksley, VA 23421(757) 665-7822

The Cactus Steakhouse & Saloon6401 George Washington

Memorial Hwy Rt 17Yorktown, VA(757) 898-8500

Damon & Company Sports Bar & Grill7104 George Washington Memorial Hwy

Rt. 17 NorthGloucester, VA(804) 693-7218

www.damonsbar.com

Dirty Dick’s Crab HouseRudee Inlet

Virginia Beach, VA(757) 491-DICK

HOOTERs of Chesterfi eld1211 Huguenot Rd

Midlothian, VA(804) 378-9464

HOOTERs of Chester2401 West Hundred Road

Chester, VA(804) 425-9464

HOOTERS of Fredericksburg10400 Spotsylvania Ave

Fredericksburg, VA(540) 898-8044

HOOTERS of Richmond7912 West Broad Street

Richmond, VA(804) 270-9464

Hoss’s Deli806 Old Oyster PointNewport News, VA

(757) 596-9104

Marilyn’s Hot Rod Café4207 Wards RdLynchburg, VA(434) 832-1555

Knuckleheads Roadhouse401 North Witchduck RoadVirginia Beach, VA 23462

(757) 644-6200www.knuckleheadsvb.com

Mary Jayne’s Lazy Horse Bar & Grill565 Cedar Road

Chesapeake, Va 23322(757) 549-0367

Randzz Restaurant & Pub6001 Holland Rd.Suffolk, VA 23437(757) 657-9331

EVERY NIGHT IS BIKE NIGHT!

Talons Sports and Spirits11800 Hull St. Road

Midlothian, VA 23112(804) 744-9541

Suits to Sleeveless – EVERYONE’s Welcome Here!

Virginia

Bayside Harley-Davidson2211 Frederick Blvd I-264 Exit 5

Portsmouth, VA 23704757 397-5550

www.baysidehd.com

Eagle Rider Motorcycle Rental14159 Mariah Court

Chantilly, VA703-802-9860

1-866-268-6782www.eagleriderdc.com

Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City10716 Ocean Gateway

Berlin, MD(410) 629-1599

Kitty Hawk Harley-Davidson8739 Caratoke Highway

Harbinger, NC 27941252 491-2091

www.kittyhawkhd.com

North Carolina

Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge,Sports Center & Marina169 Walnut Island Blvd

Grandy, NC 27939(252) 453-4153

www.outerbanksbikerally.com

Comfort Inn Oceanfront South8031 Old Oregon Inlet Road

Nags Head, NC(800) 334-3302

CHARTER BOAT “AMETHYST”Indian River Inlet, Rehoboth Beach, DETuna * Dolphin * Shark * King Mackerel

Sea Bass * Croaker * FlounderSince 1984 1-800-999-8119www.atbeach.com/amethyst

Email: [email protected]

Two Feathers Tattoos“Art With A Pulse”(757) 575-5977

City Limits Tattoo & Piercing, Ltd.119D Boulevard

Colonial Heights, VA 23834(804) 504-0600

www.citylimitstattoo.com

Southern Attitude BandCountry * Southern Rock * Classic Rock

For Bookings Call Ben Duncan (757) 713-2088

The Rhythm PigsContact: Timmy Fodrey

(757) 286-6001www.rhythmpigs.com

10 Foot 6Contact: Sonny Bowen

(757) 236-5345 or (804) 642-2707Email: [email protected]

Al’s Towing of Virginia – 24 Hour Service

5570 Raby Rd.Norfolk, VA 23502

(757) 461-7097, (757) 455-6667Al’s cell (757) 407-2735

www.alstowing.com

Bob Chapman – The Biker’s Realtor926-A J. Clyde Morris BlvdNewport News, VA 23601

(757) [email protected]

Segeleon Racing LLC(757) 651-7451


Trailer World1982 George Washington Memorial

HighwayGloucester Point, VA 23062

www.vatrailerworld.com


VELOCITY MOTORCYCLES Velocity Motorcycles in Richmond, VA., held their GRAND RE-OPENING on Sat. February 10. There was a lot of exciting things happening at their shop that day including being in the spotlight with the “on location” fi lm crew from Walneck’s Clas-sic Cycle Trader. It seems that Velocity is doing a restoration for Walneck. When I fi nd out exactly what bike they are doing (rumored to be a classic BMW with a Sidecar) and the unveiling date, I will bring you the whole story. I do know that when the bike is fi nally fi nished, it will be raffl ed off to raise money for Juvenile Diabetes. There was also music from the bands - El Cheapo Deluxe, The Imitators and Barbi n’ Bondage. What a cool place to check out - Velocity Motorcycles, 1202 North Boulevard, Richmond, Virginia.

Here are a couple of pictures from Rocker Originals in Yorktown. This is Mike �Hammer�s Old School Chopper about 35% complete. www.rockeroriginals.com

W O R K I N P R O G R E S S


THUNDER FOR THE PARK UPDATE: THE KIDS ARE ROLLING AGAIN!We were thrilled to hear about the Skate Park being reopened recently in Virginia Beach. Thunder Roads along with Dirty Dicks Crab House had sponsored a fundraiser back in December to raise money to help with the rebuilding process of the ramps. Thanks again to all of the riders, passengers, musicians, sponsors & just everyone who partici-pated in that event – our efforts did make a difference!

Taken from a Press release Feb 6, 2007:Skate Park at Mount Trashmore Park Reopened Repairs to the above ground bowl and other components complete

(Virginia Beach, VA) Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation is pleased to announce that the above-ground bowl has been rebuilt, and the repairs to other damaged components at the Mount Trashmore Skate Park have been completed. The original bowl was destroyed and other components were damaged in the August 16, 2006 fi re. The Skate Park is once again open and fully operational.


Travel TrailerBy Matthew Allan

February 2007 It was an evolution of sorts… small steps along the way to better motorcycle trips. The decision to buy a trailer to move my bike during the cold season and across frequently traveled spaces also fi nally led to the purchase of a truck camper.The last straw was Sturgis in 2006 with searing heat for a week and daily hailstorms in the afternoon. We were camping in a tent. It was impossible to stay at our campsite during the afternoon because it was too hot in the tent even when it rained! But it was good business for every bar and restaurant we camped out at instead. I didn’t know how far we wanted to go easing into conventional pleasures but saw the dudes in the big RV cooking steaks and the couple next to us dozing under their trailer canopy in the afternoons. Something had to change.We enjoy camping. Don’t like motels and prefer our own cooking. We have backpacked for over 25 years and ridden the bike across the U.S. many times rarely stopping more than necessary and always camping. We like to be on the road. After Sturgis, we rode to the Four Corners Rally on Labor Day weekend crossing over the continental di-vide in a hailstorm and rode on to tent camp at Mesa Verde. It rained a lot but there were nice days too.In October, we were looking at another cross country trip to Smoky Mountain Bike Week at Fontana Lake, North Carolina. Our return to Colorado would be some time in December so riding weather would be minimal. We began looking for a truck camper and settled on an Arctic Fox buying from the Happy Camper people in Burleson, TX. They are good folks and a lot of fun too.Immediately the benefi ts of a truck camper and trailer were apparent. Lan was cooking her fabulous food every night. We stopped to camp along DeGray Lake in Arkansas and rode the bike to Hot Springs whenever we pleased. The traffi c on I-40 into Tennessee was fast and furious but people were watching out for us this time. We traveled into the night crossing over the Smokies with fog arriving at Fontana Lake at 3:00 a.m. Something you are not likely to do very often on a bike.We rode again the Tail of the Dragon, Hellbender and Cherohala Skyway. Enjoyed the autumn colors in the mountains as the weather turned cool. As our North Carolina autumn ended, we packed up the trailer and left on a rainy morning for West Virginia. The roads were slick and one biker had already slid into the trees on Hellbender. When we got to West Virginia, it was snowing in the mountains. Our plan was to ride the twisties from Webster Springs to Buckhannon and camp at Sutton Lake. We rode the bike one very cold day before the day time temperatures dropped below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. After two more days at Sutton Lake waiting for the snow to stop so we could ride again, we turned off the heat in the truck camper and headed for the family abode. But the truck camper had kept us warm and I was busy writing motorcycle stuff or walking along the lake. There was heavy snow as we crossed over the eastern continental divide. Two weeks later in November, the weather warmed up enough for me to hit the road again on the bike. I packed a sleeping bag and tooth-brush and headed back to the twisties near Buckhannon. After doing State Roads 15 and 20 which are indeed very twisty, I veered onto the interstate to ride back and spent the night camping in the woods

near a rest stop. Several days in the West Virginia mountains during autumn is always a great adventure that I try and repeat every year.Looking back on the entire trip it was clear that the truck camper and bike trailer gave us greater fl exibility in coping with the weather espe-cially as fall weather turned cold early on. With cold weather, travel time on the bike was reduced but the truck rig allowed us to continue on.I don’t intend to give up motorcycle camping and bought a new rack for the bike this year to better accommodate our gear. The truck camper and trailer give us the freedom to get where we want to go and ride most of the year. This is a benefi t to a biker who travels frequently and with great distance. To me the road is the journey. As a moto-journalist, the destination is not the best story but the road adventures getting there. There is no substitute for the time spent on your bike going from one place to an-other. The decision to travel trailer must be something that enhances your biker experience not diminish it. You decide what serves you best.

Safe travels. Life is best just cruisin’.

Matthew Allan is a moto-journalist living in Colo-

rado and West Virginia. He keeps a ride in both places to

placate the road demons that haunt him. He is the author of The

Zen Guide to Motorcycle Riding.


Manure: In the 16th and 17th centuries, every-thing had to be transported by ship and it was also before commercial fertilizer’s invention, so large shipments of manure were common. It was shipped dry, because in dry form it weighed a lot less than when wet, but once water (at sea) hit it, it not only became heavi-er, but the process of fermentation began again, of which a by product is methane gas. As the stuff was stored below decks in bun-dles you can see what could (and did) happen. Methane began to build up below decks and the fi rst time someone came belowat night with a lantern, BOOOOM!

Several ships were destroyed in this manner before it was determined just what was hap-pening. After that, the bundles of manure were always stamped with the term “Ship High In Transit” on them, which meant for the sailors to stow it high enough off the lower decks so that any water that came into the hold would not touch this volatile cargo and start the production of methane.

Thus evolved the term “S.H.I.T “ , (Ship High In Transport) which has come down through the centuries and is in use to this very day.

From: http://gotthefi nger.com/?page_id=2Finger History The History of the The Middle Finger Salute:More fun than highschool history class.

Before the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, the French, anticipating victory over the Eng-lish, proposed to cut off the middle fi nger of all captured English soldiers. Without the middle fi nger it would be impossible to draw the renowned English longbow and therefore they would be incapable of fi ghting in the future.

This famous English longbow was made of the native English Yew tree, and the act of drawing the longbow was known as “pluck-ing the yew” (or “pluck yew”).

Much to the bewilderment of the French, the English won a major upset and began mocking the French by waving their middle fi ngers at the defeated French, saying, “See, we can still pluck yew!”

Since ‘pluck yew’ is rather diffi cult to say, the diffi cult consonant cluster at the begin-ning has gradually changed to a labiodentals fricative F’, and thus the words often used in conjunction with the one-fi nger-salute!

It is also because of the pheasant feath-ers on the arrows used with the longbow that the symbolic gesture is known as “giving the bird.” And yew thought you knew everything! Found on gotthefi nger.com from our own Tim Wilmoth

Plucking TheYew


January 22, 2007Milwaukee, WI - A new webcam will fol-

low the progress as the Harley-Davidson museum is built. Construction on the mu-seum began last summer in Milwaukee, Wis., and is set to open in 2008.

The H-D Museum webcam displays new images of the construction site several times an hour and features a zoom func-tion for close-up views. Images of the progress will be archived so viewers can observe step-by-step development.

The Harley-Davidson Museum will be located on 20 acres at the corner of Sixth and Canal streets near downtown Milwaukee. The museum will encompass 130,000 square feet and will have exhibit space, restaurant, café, retail shop, meet-ing space, special events facilities and will house the company’s archives. An esti-mated 70 full-time jobs are expected to be fi lled and 350,000 visitors from around the world are expected to visit the museum annually.

Reprinted with permission from Ehlert’s Powersports Business.

HD Museum Webcam Follows Daily ContructionHD Museum Webcam Follows Daily Contruction

Eddie Trotta Gets Thunder RoadsShouldn’t You?

To get Thunder Roads Magazine In The Mail Send Check Or Money Order For

$30.00 Made Out To:Mid-Atlantic Thunder Roads 1920 Centerville Turnpike,

Suite 117-270 Virginia Beach, VA 23464

NAME________________________________

STREET______________________________

CITY____________________ZIP___________

SPRING MAKEOVER SPRING MAKEOVER Thunder Roads would like to introduce you to a group of 3 very talented bike “re-builders” who live in the Virginia Beach area. Before you meet them, we thought that it would be kind of cool to 1st show you what they can do. I’ve seen their work personally & was very impressed. So, with my ’95 Harley being long overdue for a little makeover, I am entrusting them with my baby for a little while to give her a fresh look for 2007. I’ll keep you posted next month on their progress…..~ Kelly ~


POINTMAN PERSPECTIVE

Beware the “Ides of March” or rather the 17th I try real hard not to get “political” with any of my ar-ticles. The same God that loves me, loves everyone else, so I try to be very careful about anyone I speak about. As a pastor I have an obligation to be fair and honest about everything I do, especially when oth-ers are involved. However, I am also a veteran of the armed forces of the United States and I get so frosted at times that I have to go to God and just cry out. As hard as I try, it’s often diffi cult to understand why people do the things they do. I am also a Patriot Guard Rider and I was informed that on March 17,2007, a group of anti-war protest-ers are gathering at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to march on the capitol. This is all fi ne and well. We live in a country that gives us the privilege to protest the things that we don’t believe in. Again, all fi ne and well, however the last time a demonstration was held in D.C. a good deal of vandalism occurred. Steps and buildings were spray painted and the place was literally trashed. Although the years have mellowed me somewhat and Jesus has softened my heart, I still struggle with the message these people send. They are going to protest the very thing that gives them the freedom to protest. I wonder what would happen if they went to Iran, Syria, North Korea and protested? You know what would happen and so do they, so they will do it here where it’s safe. Fortunately, not everyone shares their views about the war. They can complain, criticize and whine about the government all they want, but don’t mess with the soldiers, the veterans or those that have fallen. On March 17,2007, The Riders from “Rolling Thunder”, the Patriot Guard Riders and a number of vets from every walk of life will be there also, including yours truly. We will form a wall between the protesters and our memorials. We don’t know if these people will try to damage any of the memorials or not, but we are not taking any chances. We are committed to non-vio-lence. Our only objective is to protect the memorials. As a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ I have to look at these people through the eyes of Christ. Jesus died for them as well as He died for you and me, we’re all the same level. I lift this event before the Lord and ask Him go before us, to soften hearts, to cool angry

heads and allow a peaceful demonstration that would honor both sides of this debate. May the road rise up to meet you May the wind always be at your backMay the rain fall gently on your fi eldsUntil we meet again may God holdyou in the hollow of His hand

Via Con DiosReverend Rock Contact Reverend Rock with your comments, sugges-tions or snide remarks at [email protected] or [email protected] and be sure to visit my website at www.pointman.homestead.com

Rocky is an ordained minister and an outpost leader for Pointman International Ministries.He and his wife Donna live in Chester,Virginia and together have fi ve children and twelve grandchildren.Rocky is the Business Man-ager for South Richmond Harley-Davidson and rides a 2002 Heritage Softail Classic.He and Donna belong to Cornerstone Assembly of God and is a member of The Christian Motrocyclists Association;Richmond Chapter 173,The Virginia Christian Riders.He is also Chaplain for the South Richmond HOG Group and a member of the Patriot Guard Riders.Affectionately ( I hope ) known as Reverend Rock,Rocky welcomes your com-ments and/or sugeestions and can be contacted at [email protected]

Perhaps it was the appeal of hard sand, warm winter days and the excitement of that fi rst motorcycle race on the beach, that made Daytona Beach the home of Bike Week. Maybe it was the spirited activities surrounding the event that have kept people coming back. Whatever the case, Bike Week has been a tradition since January 24,1937 - the inau-gural running of the Daytona 200. The fi rst race took place

on a 3.2 mile beach and road course, located south of Day-tona Beach. Ed Kretz of Monterey Park, CA was its fi rst winner, riding an American made Indian motorcycle and averaging 73.34 mph. Kretz also won the inaugural City of Daytona Beach trophy. The 1937, race course ran approxi-mately one and a half miles north on the beach; through a 1/4 mile turn where the sand was banked, and then onto the paved, public roadway portion for the trip south. Coming back on the fi nal turn, another high sand bank awaited rid-ers as they raced on the hard sands of the beach. Interest-ingly enough, starting times for these events were dictated by the local tide tables. The races continued from 1937 to 1941. In the early years the Daytona 200 was also called the “Handlebar Derby” by local racing scribes.

In 1942, the Daytona 200 was dis-continued because of World War II. Its sanctioning body, the American Motorcycling Association (AMA) solemnly noted it was “in the inter-ests of national defense” that the event was canceled. With the war, came a general rationing of fuel, tires and key engine components. Even though the racing event was “offi cially” called off, people still showed up for an “unoffi cial” party called Bike Week. On February 24,

1947, the famous motorcycle race resumed and was now promoted by the legendary Bill France. Newspaper stories of the period recount that the city fathers asked townsfolk to open their homes to the visiting motorcy-clists because all hotel rooms and camping areas were fi lled to capacity. The 1947 Daytona 200 featured a record 176 rid-ers. In 1948, a new beach - road course was used because of developments along the beach. Organizers were forced to move the event further south, towards Ponce Inlet. The new circuit measured 4.1 miles. The last Daytona 200 to be held on the beach - road course took place in 1960. In 1961, the famous race was moved to the Daytona Interna-tional Speedway. Bike Week has always had a fl avor of its own. Some time after the war, the event began to take on a rugged edge. While the motorcycle races on the beach were organized, events surrounding the race were not. As time passed, locals became afraid of the visitors and law enforce-ment offi cers and city offi cials were less than enthusiastic about what some termed an “invasion”. Relations between the Bikers and law enforcement offi cials continued to worsen. When things appeared to be at their worst (after the 1986 event), a special task force was organized by the city in cooperation with the local chamber of commerce to improve relations and change the magnitude and scope of the event. Today Bike Week has transformed into a 10-day festival that expands throughout Volusia County. There are hundreds of events for motorcycle enthusiasts to enjoy. Bike Week now welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and is enjoyed by locals and motorcycle enthusi-asts world wide.


Club DirectoryClub DirectoryABATE of Virginia welcomes all riders to join in the fi ght to protect our

rights.“No matter what you ride, we want YOU! Info: Mike (703) 321-0714 Leg hotline 800-3-ABATE-4

ABATE of VA/Blue RidgeMeets at 7 pm on 2nd Thursdays at Pano’s Rest. in Harrisonburg.

Info: (434) 248-6211

ABATE of VA/Battlefi eld Chapt.Meets 3rd Wed. @7:30 pm at Guisseppe’s Italian Rest.

Contact Red (434) 535-0608

ABATE Blackwater Chapter of VAMeets 2nd Tues at 7:30 pm, Jordans Rest. 1200 Armory Dr., Franklin, VA

ABATE of Virginia/Ironhorse Cavalry - Lynchburg & surrounding counties. Coordinator Ricky “Rebel” Banks (434) 239-4170. Meetings are held on the

1st Tuesday of each month at Marilyn’s Hot Rod Café at 7pm

ABATE of VA/Olde Dominion ChapterMeets at JV’s Restaurant at 6666 Route 50, Falls Church, Virginia. First

Monday of each month at 7:30pm. Info [email protected]

ABATE OF VA/Star CityMeets 7 pm, 2nd Wed @ Starters, Colorado Street in Salem VA.

Info:(540) 985-6808.www.starcityabate.freeservers.com [email protected]

ABATE of VA/TidewaterMeets 3rd Tues 7pm at House of Eggs in Norfolk. Info: (757) 560-6892

[email protected]

ABATE/FIRST CAPITOL CHAPTERMeets 1st Sunday @ 10 am at Williamsburg Moose Lodge #757

5429 Richmond Road

ABATE of River CityMeets 3rd Sunday - Starting Sunday, Oct. 15 we will meet at 5pm at Talon’s

(formerly known as Beefeater’s). Talon’s is located at 11800 Hull Street Road (Rt.360) (804-744-9541). It’s about a mile east of Rt.288 (third light). Contact

Steve at [email protected] or (804) 743-2038

American Cruisers Motorcycle Club Chapter 54 - Chesapeake, VAPresident Jack Wright (757) 465-8578, [email protected]

www.americancruisers.us

American Cruisers Motorcycle Club Chapter 57 - Va. Beach,Va. President Brian Brooner, E-Mail [email protected]

Army of The Lord, Virginia (Virginia Beach) Christian Riding GroupMeets 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. 7:30 pm

Overseer: Rich “Sluggo” Segarra [email protected] www.armyofthelordva.org

Bayside Hog – Meets 7pm on 3rd Friday at Bayside Harley-Davidson

Outer Banks HOG – Meets 2pm, 1st Saturday at Outer Banks Harley-Davidson

Bikers with Heart Foundation, Inc.501 ©3 Non-Profi t Organization, National Fallen Biker Memorial Weekend,

P.O. Box 291 Bryantown, MD 20617, Offi ce: (301) 893-2900 Email: [email protected]

Website: www.fi reupthundrout.com/bikerswithheartMotto: We Ride Because We Care

Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA Chapter V – Hampton RoadsMeets 4th Wed every month 7 pm, 110 Kempsville Rd, Chesapeake, VA

Club President – Susan Taylor (757) [email protected]

http://members.bellatlantic.net/~vze4sw29/bkva5.htm

Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA VIIIMeets on 1st Wed at the Charlottesville FOP Lodge

Info: Willie Barnett (804) 589-1824

Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA Chapter XYorktown, VA www.blueknightsvax.com

Blue Knights Virginia Chapter IIIRichmond, VA (804) 379-0578

Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA XIII Danville, Virginia meets on 13th of every month

Club President - Keith Johnson www.blueknightsvaxiii.com

Blue Ridge Christian Riders CMA Chapter 264Meets 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30pm Roanoke Valley Harley-

Davidson dealership. Contact: Steve Lemay (540) 721-1969, Graffan Reynolds (540) 588-6191, Dave Miller (540) 362-3962

Buell Owners in the DC areaMeets 1st Sat, 10 am at H-D

Castaways Riding Club - Tidewater, VAMeets 3rd Weds of the month. Wherever your mind wonders…ride after it!

www.castatwaysrc.com or email [email protected]

Central Virginia Chapter of the Victory Motorcycle ClubBill Robinson, Chapter PresidentEmail: [email protected]

Cell: (804)339-3784 Home: (804) 737-7910

Central VA Trail RidersMeets 7 pm on 1st & 3rd Tues.

At a Richmond Rest. Info: (804) 272-8038

Christian Motorcyclist Association Northern Virginia Chapter 348www.nvcrcma.com NVCR meets 3rd Sat each month @ Old Country Buffet

in Manassas @ 9:00 am, President – Rick Saunders, [email protected]

CMA/Blue Ridge Christian Riders (Roanoke area)Meets 3rd Mon. at RVHD 1925 Peters Creek Rd, Roanoke, VA

Info: (540) 588-6191

Concours Owners GroupCOG – Northeast Area www,concours.org/ne

Mid-Atlantic Region Luray, VA #1887Patrick Sprague (540) 743-4874Email: [email protected]

Down By Law 757 MC Clubwww.downbylaw-mc.com President – “Quiet Storm”


EZRR Club, Inc. Richmond, VAInfo: (804) 932-4784/www.riders-inc.com

GWRRA chapter K of RoanokeMeets 3rd Thursday, Holiday Inn Airport

Web address: http://www.communities.msn.com/GWRRAVAKChapter Directors: Jerry & Linda Hall (540) 387-0897

GWWRA Chapter D of Richmond VA2236 Cedar Crest Rd. Richmond, VA 23235

GWTA THE LOONEY TOON RIDERSMeets at 460 Western Sizzlin, 2nd Sat each month at 2 pm

For more info call (540) 265-2986

Hampton Roads Southern Cruisers Riding Club Chapter #26Website http//bikers.crusading.org/“Cruiser” Mosher 1st Offi cer HRSC

[email protected] Bound Bikers

Meets 2nd Sat. each month 9am riders in South Hill (434) 372-3785 a great ride after each meeting

Heaven’s Saints Motorcycle Ministry4181 Worsham Rd. Powhatan, Va 23139 (804) 598-9026;

[email protected]

Honda Riders Club (HRC), Appalachian M/CMeetings & open rides on 4th Sundays, 11 am at Loudoun Motorsports in

Leesburg, VA Info: (703) 777-1652

Honda Riders Club (HRC)Manassas Honda Rider’s Club Meets 1st Tues 7:30 pm Stonewall Jackson

VFD 7814 Garner Road, Manassas, VA Info: (703)361-2233

Indian Riders GroupVA Beach Indian Riders Info: (757)449-6017 www.vabirg.com

LadyRiders, Inc. Motorcycle Club - Northern Virginia AreaMeets 2nd Monday of the month, schedules rides 4th wked of monthSee www.ladyriderinc.com or write [email protected]

Queen Beez Motorcycle & Social Associationwww.queenbeezmsa.com P O Box 35396

Richmond, VA 23235 [email protected]

Richmond Riderswww.richmondriders.com 2nd Sunday every month meets for Bikes in the

Bottom 9:30am Poe’s Pub on Main St. Contact Jason [email protected]

Rolling Thunder, Inc. – Chapter 4 VAMeets the 3rd Monday of each month at Billie Joe’s 2004 Ward Road

Website: www.rollingthunder1.com. New members please email Kirk @[email protected] or Chris @ [email protected]

Rolling Thunder, Inc. Chapter 2 VAMeets the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at The American Legion Post 25. 7609 Marshall Ave. Newport News , Va. (757) 245-4532. For more information please contact Walt Troy (757) 874-4751 or Jenelle Barrack (757) 871-1143 or visit our website at www.rollingthunderva2.org

Shenandoah Valley HOGMonthly meeting @ Verona, Va. Moose alternates 2nd Sunday next month

2nd Tuesday. hog hotline (540) 946-9992, www.shenandoahhog.com

SONS OF THUNDER MOTORCYCLE MINISTRIES1509 Chesapeake Ave, Chesapeake, VA 23324 www.sonofthundermm.com

[email protected] meet every fi rst Saturday of each month at thunder alley Call for directions 757-543-1857 or 757-619-4073. Also we

have JC’S Fellowship Church where bikers are welcome. Come as you are – meeting place: Thunder Alley. Times: Sunday 9 am & 6 pm; Wed. 7 pm;

Thurs.(Recovery Program) 7 pm. All our runs go to JC’S Recovery House – All people that we help through this house are by application and acceptance

based on they’re desire for help.

The Southern Cruisers Riding Club - Hill City Chapter of Lynchburg, Va. meets the second Wednesday of every month @ Vinny’s Italian Restaurant

@ 7:00pm. Please contact the following if interested. Phil Stanley-First Offi cer @ [email protected]. Rhonda Moyers, Second Offi cer:

[email protected]. Please visit our web site www.hillcitycruisers.com

Southern Virginia American Legion Riders We are open to all bikes & all Veterans’ & family members of Veterans. P O Box 57 Colonial Heights, VA 23834, (804) 526-

4167, email: [email protected]

Star Touring & Riding Chapter 188 5461 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 http://vbstar.mav.net

email:[email protected], contact Lisa Laufer @ (757) 646-6738 or (757)646-6734 [email protected]

Star Touring & Riding Chapter 208 - Richmond, VaMeets the 3rd Thursday each month, check the website for more info.

http://startouring.org/chapter208/ Contact: Bob Gagne (804)458-4759 [email protected]

STAR touring and riding chapter 260 Winchester VA, meets 2nd Saturday, 9am at Golden Corral in Winchester,VA on 522. 4th Sunday rides also. Email:

[email protected] for info

TAMA – TIDEWATER ALBEMARLE MOTORCYCLE ASSOCIATION. ALL clubs or any organization that hosts rides/events are welcome to attend. Come out & meet some good people from all around the area. We’re all

working together so that each one our rides/events can be scheduled not to confl ict with others & then we can all have a successful turnout. Our meetings are held @ 7PM on the 3rd Thursday of every month (except December) at the

Golden Corral, on the corner of Volvo Pkwy & Battlefi eld Blvd in Chesapeake, VA

Virginia Bikers Association Inc.P. O. Box 1591, Hillsville, VA 24343, www.vabikersassoc.org,

email: [email protected]

Virginia Freedom RidersP O Box 1387, Suffolk, VA 23439-1387 www.vfr.race.com President: Bernie

Adams Email: [email protected] Membership Offi cer: Sandy Cartwright email: [email protected]

V MAX Owners AssociationEric Ellerman- Regional Director, 8009 Robincrest Ct.,

Fuquay Varina, NC 27526(919) 567-1991 home, (919) 244-4660 cell, 150*132514*24 Nextel Direct Connect Jimmy Rey - Chapter Leader Virginia/District of Columbia, 5901 Atteentee Rd Springfi eld, VA. 22150-3906, Day: 703-560-0600 x 15, Cell:

703-618-2333Tony Waterman - Charlotte, NC Chapter Leader, 6144 Roseway Ct.,

Harrisburg , NC. 28075-6509, Eve: 704-454-5753

Williamsburg Riders MC ClubWe meet at the Capitol Pancake and Waffl e House at 800 Capitol Landing

Road, Williamsburg, VA on the 2nd Sunday of each month (except May which is on the 2nd Sat. due to Mother’s day) at 9am for breakfast & leave by 10

am (unless earlier time is set by ride leader). We are usually headed off for a ride of about 75 – 300 miles depending upon the weather and who shows up to ride. The club is open to all makes of motorcycles and all abilities are

welcome. Contact John Heckman www.williamsburgriders.org

Wings Over HistoryGold Wing Road Riders Assoc.

Appalachian Region N. Virginia District Georgia & Ken Sladak, Directors, 9612 Alfaree Rd., Richmond, VA 23237

Women on Wheelswww.womenonwheels.org NOW FORMING VA CHAPTER Call (800) 322-

1969 or email: [email protected]


Hi, my name is Greg but Hi, my name is Greg but I usually answer to al-I usually answer to al-most anything. My riding most anything. My riding experience started years experience started years ago on a mini-bike which ago on a mini-bike which I crashed into a tree full I crashed into a tree full throttle, which probably throttle, which probably explains my eccentric explains my eccentric personality. Needless personality. Needless to say, that ride started to say, that ride started my love for riding. From my love for riding. From there, I started riding dirt there, I started riding dirt bikes, a Yamaha 250 to bikes, a Yamaha 250 to be exact. Mainly, I rode be exact. Mainly, I rode for fun, enduro style, with for fun, enduro style, with a good friend while I was a good friend while I was in high school. After grad-in high school. After grad-uation, I stopped riding uation, I stopped riding and did not resume until and did not resume until 2001 when I purchased 2001 when I purchased a Harley Davidson Sport-a Harley Davidson Sport-ster 1200 for my wife. ster 1200 for my wife. I won’t go into details, I won’t go into details, that’s another story. But, that’s another story. But, it was the start of my it was the start of my Harley Davidson experi-Harley Davidson experi-ence. To date, I have ence. To date, I have put over 40,000 miles on put over 40,000 miles on this bike. Additionally, I this bike. Additionally, I have purchased a Har-have purchased a Har-ley Davidson 2004 FXST ley Davidson 2004 FXST (standard Soft Tail) and (standard Soft Tail) and have 20,000 miles so far have 20,000 miles so far on it. I love riding - it’s on it. I love riding - it’s one of many experiences one of many experiences that I have had that truly that I have had that truly makes my senses reel. makes my senses reel. I enjoy the outdoors I enjoy the outdoors while riding solo or with while riding solo or with my wife and friends. I my wife and friends. I have attended many bike have attended many bike events but yet to go to St-events but yet to go to St-urgis or on a cross coun-urgis or on a cross coun-try trip. I plan to do these try trip. I plan to do these things in the future. things in the future. My favorite rides to date My favorite rides to date have been charitable have been charitable events. It’s important events. It’s important to give to those in need to give to those in need and it gives me a great and it gives me a great feeling of satisfaction feeling of satisfaction to know I can do this to know I can do this while riding. I have been while riding. I have been blessed with a beautiful blessed with a beautiful wife that loves riding and wife that loves riding and I have found that riding I have found that riding can strengthen bonds can strengthen bonds with family and friends. with family and friends. I hope to see you out I hope to see you out there on the pavement there on the pavement doing what you love. doing what you love. Don’t hesitate to say hi Don’t hesitate to say hi and ride safeand ride safe.

GREGGREG


I would probably deny being the big-I would probably deny being the big-gest fraud in our biking community, if gest fraud in our biking community, if I were asked on a routine basis. How-I were asked on a routine basis. How-ever, having said that, I would also say ever, having said that, I would also say that I am enthusiastic about riding. that I am enthusiastic about riding. Hi, my name is Kay and I got my Har-Hi, my name is Kay and I got my Har-ley Davidson Sportster 1200 in 2001. ley Davidson Sportster 1200 in 2001. One would think by now I would have One would think by now I would have learned how to ride it. Unfortunately learned how to ride it. Unfortunately not. Instead, it is 2007 and I still ride not. Instead, it is 2007 and I still ride passenger with my husband, Greg. I passenger with my husband, Greg. I can say in fairness that I did actually can say in fairness that I did actually get around to sign up for lessons last get around to sign up for lessons last Spring, however, I was scheduled for Spring, however, I was scheduled for the weekend Tropical Storm Ernesto the weekend Tropical Storm Ernesto came to town. The class was can-came to town. The class was can-celled as the course ground was under celled as the course ground was under water. Learning to ride this year is one water. Learning to ride this year is one of my biggest ambitions, so keep your of my biggest ambitions, so keep your fi ngers crossed for me. As a result, I fi ngers crossed for me. As a result, I am an avid passenger. I love the ex-am an avid passenger. I love the ex-hilaration of riding with my husband. hilaration of riding with my husband. I have also learned to really appreci-I have also learned to really appreci-ate our biking community. I work with ate our biking community. I work with a fairly conservative group of people a fairly conservative group of people who don’t get to see the generosity of who don’t get to see the generosity of spirit, community involvement and ca-spirit, community involvement and ca-maraderie that I have seen on a regu-maraderie that I have seen on a regu-lar basis. They are surprised when I lar basis. They are surprised when I talk about the charity poker runs, Toys talk about the charity poker runs, Toys for Tots runs and other events that for Tots runs and other events that bikers get involved in. Some are fairly bikers get involved in. Some are fairly envious when I talk about the fun we envious when I talk about the fun we have at VBBC and Myrtle Beach. I re-have at VBBC and Myrtle Beach. I re-ally get a kick when we come up to ally get a kick when we come up to a traffi c light and some small child in a traffi c light and some small child in the car next to us looks at us in awe. the car next to us looks at us in awe. I wish I could adequately describe I wish I could adequately describe the sense of freedom that comes with the sense of freedom that comes with being on a ride- the speed, the smells, being on a ride- the speed, the smells, the sensation of wind in your face but the sensation of wind in your face but I suspect these conservative people I suspect these conservative people will never really understand that. All of will never really understand that. All of which contributes to my self imposed which contributes to my self imposed title of fraud. These conservative title of fraud. These conservative people, primarily in the medical fi eld, people, primarily in the medical fi eld, are far more familiar with the injuries are far more familiar with the injuries that are incurred to riders and they that are incurred to riders and they see the potential hazards but none of see the potential hazards but none of the benefi ts. Conversely, to the people the benefi ts. Conversely, to the people that know me in the riding commu-that know me in the riding commu-nity, I’m seen as the conservative one nity, I’m seen as the conservative one primarily due to my relationship to the primarily due to my relationship to the medical community. I am comfortable medical community. I am comfortable in being a part of both worlds.in being a part of both worlds.Meanwhile, I wait for warm weather, Meanwhile, I wait for warm weather, those ever elusive riding lessons those ever elusive riding lessons and more opportunities to ride with and more opportunities to ride with friends. Perhaps we’ll eventually friends. Perhaps we’ll eventually meet…at a bike event, a charity ride meet…at a bike event, a charity ride or other social situation. Perhaps not, or other social situation. Perhaps not, but I do hope however, where ever but I do hope however, where ever your rides take you, that you ride safe, your rides take you, that you ride safe, enjoy the ride and make it about the enjoy the ride and make it about the journey.journey.


KAYKAY

thunder roads virginia magazine - march '07

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