VOLUME 5 ISSUE 4 MAY 2008
MAGAZINE ®
Arizona
thunderroadsarizona . com
FREE
Take One
Informing the public, bikers are not the scourge they thought they were in the 1960’s
Thunder Roads Magazine
Letter From The Editor As I have said before, yes motorcycles are dangerous, but
so are cars, trucks, airplanes and guns if not used properly.
He we - are it’s May already and this month we recognize
May as Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month. The sad thing in all this is, many in the mainstream public
still believe that helmets are the answer to motorcycle safety.
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is an open invitation to Everyone thinks that just by strapping on a helmet you are
all riders and enthusiasts, regardless of your affiliations or going to be saved if a motorist pulls out and causes you
scooter preferences, to show support for greater motorcycle to be in an accident. No one ever thinks that you can die
awareness on our highways and byways, in an effort to save from the internal injuries or the infections caused from the
our lives. accident. All they ever think about are head injuries and how
much of a public burden we become after they cause the
Motorist awareness is an important component of Motor- accident.
cycle Safety Awareness Month, the National Highway Traffic Head injuries kill 43,000 non-motorcyclists every year. Ac-
Safety Administration’s comprehensive motorcycle safety cording to the CDC, The Center for Disease Control’s web
program, and our welfare and safety as riders. site (a government web site no less), 1,400,000 American’s
will hit their head this year and suffer a Traumatic Brain
The fact remains that between half and two-thirds of all Injury (TBI).
fatal motorcycle crashes involve a motorcycle and another
vehicle. The motorist either does not see the oncoming Those 1.4 million people will cost America $60,000,000,000
motorcycle at all or doesn’t see the motorcycle in time to in health care, this year alone!
avoid a crash. It is important for motorists to know that their
actions affect the safety and operation of motorcyclists. The CDC also states that an estimated 280,000 drivers will
hit their heads in an auto accident.
A motorist and a motorcyclist may take different actions for
the same driving or highway situation. For example, a motor- And at least 50,000 American’s will DIE from a TBI, this year.
ist may ignore a piece of road debris; however, that same
piece of road debris may very well be deadly for me as a Think about this for a minute. If you subtract the deaths of
motorcyclist. the 4,810 dead motorcyclists from the overall total of the
50,000 deaths from TBI’s, who really needs the helmets?
Motorists should always think, practice safety, share the
road and respect the right of way of the motorcyclist and we, Lets compare those 280,000 auto accidents leading to a TBI
the motorcyclist, should always think, practice safety, share vs. 88,000 MC accidents, not all of which will cause a seri-
the road and respect the right of way of the motorist. ous head injury. Who needs the helmets now?
Unfortunately that last part does not always happen, and If we as Americans continue to allow statistics to determine
here is what I mean. These are comments taken from a our laws, then based on the CDC’s statistics EVERY Ameri-
newspaper. can should be wearing a helmet 24 hours a day, 7 days a
week to prevent TBI’s.
Comment number 1- a lot of motorcyclists think they’re invin-
cible because their bikes are faster than other vehicles. Just By the governments own admission, three times as many
yesterday a group of three motorcyclists passed me and people in cars will suffer a TBI in an automobile accident,
other cars on the freeway by going in between lanes. I, and than the number of motorcyclists, helmeted or not, that will
other cars, almost hit them, these guys were riding danger- even be in an accident and many of them, again helmeted
ously and I see this happen all the time. or not, won’t be seriously injured.
Comment number 2 - Motorcyclists always say it’s every- The bottom line is motorists need to learn to fully respect the
body fault but their own. They should be driving more defen- motorcyclist and realize that a motorcycle is a vehicle with all
sively and realize that they have a smaller profile than a car. of the same privileges as any vehicle on the roadway.
It’s hard to see you guys when you’re weaving in and out of
traffic and going 20 mph faster than us Until these same motorists realize that they need to look
for a motorcyclist on the highway, at intersections, or when
Comment number 3 - While I am all for helmet laws — the a motorcyclist is making a left turn, or changing lanes and
more stringent, the better — I am compelled to point out that allow us plenty of space and learn not to follow a motorcycle
helmet laws don’t offer full protection. Motorcyclists should too closely, helmets or not, we are going to keep dying. Mo-
not get a false sense of protection just because they’re torist awareness and education
wearing helmets … I lost my boyfriend 25 years ago in a is the main key to motorcycle
motorcycle accident. He laid his bike down on a blind curve safety.
on Mulholland Drive in Los Angeles; he would have walked
away without a scratch, if a panel van hadn’t come around That’s all for now. Thanks for
the corner and hit him, crushing his chest. And, yes, he was reading and please support
a very experienced motorcyclist, and a very cautious rider. those who advertise, bringing
Experience and caution didn’t allow him to see an oil slick on you this publication each and
a blind curve, even going 15 mph. every month.
Those comments were just a few of the many responses to Tom.
an article that ran in the New York Times and most were of
the same. The topic, as you can guess, was how dangerous
motorcycles are and why all motorcyclists should have to
wear helmets.
Thunder Roads Magazine Thunder Roads Magazine
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE ARIZONA
842 E GABRILLA DR,
CASA GRANDE, AZ. 85222 Joker’s Wild.................................................6
PHONE: 520-836-9402
Fax 520-836-9402
Born To Be Wild..........................................8
THUNDER ROADS ARIZONA STAFF
OWNER - EDITOR
Tom Corr
520-836-9402 Billy Lane Update........................................9
Email thunderroadsaz@aol.com
OR thunderroadsaz@msn.com
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Calendar Of Events....................................10
JR. Morin
520-280-4486
jrthunderroads@yahoo.com
ADVERTISING, SALES MANAGER
Chester’s HD To Open................................13
Kelly Morley
623-933-0690
PHOTOGRAPHY Missouri Fatality Rates High.....................15
Tom Corr, JR. Morin
Art (leeroy) Holliman –
Viet Nam Vets / Legacy Vets MC
KISS..........................................................19
WEB MASTER / SITE DESIGNER
Kirk Johnson
602 363-5386
www.kjwebs.com
www.phoenixbikes.com News Bytes................................................20
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
J.R. Morin, Kirk Johnson Phx Bikers
Valerie (VT Race Girl) Thompson, Biker Friendly Directory..............................22
Wild Bill Salva, Rapture BFC MC
ACCOUNTING AND BILLING
Chris Mc Connell Blow Winds, Blow!..................................................23
COMPLAINT DEPT
Chris Mc Connell
DELIVERIES Hearts To Heroes.............................................24
Chris Mc Connell, J.R Morin, Tom Corr,
LAYOUT AND DESIGN
Warren Ells, Art Director Training Wheels.........................................28
Thunder Publishing
warrenlayout@yahoo.com
NATIONAL FOUNDERS
Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon Luncheon On The Lawn.............................29
1421 Chapmansboro Road
Chapmansboro, TN 37035
Thunder Roads Magazine
The Joker’s Wild Letters To The Editor:::::
Something has to be said. than West Coast Chopper wheels. Just saying that doesn’t sound right. I decided to search the Internet
During one of my bouts with extreme boredom I decided to take for these wheels and found out that these wheels start at no less than $1,800 dollars. They range from
a gander at some of the motorcycles for sale on one of the local there all the way up to $4,000 dollars. The thought of paying $4,000 dollars for a name disgusts me. Lets
Little Ricky was staying at his Grandma’s for a few New Government Seal: Official Announcement: classified ads website. I’m not going to mention the websites put this into perspective; a used Sportster can be purchased for that.
days. He’d been playing outside with his best buddy Jim- The federal government today announced that it is name, but it does rhyme with the word “hag” followed with a list of Example 3. This perhaps is my favorite. Once again, I was on my way home. I was stuck at a stop light
my, and some other kids from the block, when he came changing its emblem from an Eagle to a CONDOM be- some sort. (Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines the term “hag” and saw another couple in what I would consider “biker gear.” The man was wearing a leather vest, chain
as a female demon, which generally conjures up memories of my wallet, and boots. The woman that was with him was wearing a sleeveless H-D shirt, bandanna, chain
into the house and asked, “Grandma, what’s that called cause it more accurately reflects the government’s
ex-wife. But that’s a different story for a different time) Anyhow, as wallet and boots. And what were they doing you ask? Waiting for the bus.
when two people sleep in the same room and one is on political stance.. A condom allows for inflation, halts pro- To sum it all up, you’re either a biker or you’re not. However, if you’re going to walk the walk, and talk the
I perused this website I noticed quite a few motorcycles listed at or
top of the other? She was a little shocked, but decided duction, destroys the next generation, protects a bunch below $5,000. A few examples would be a 2004 Honda Shadow talk, and dress the part, you need to own a damned motorcycle. Period. Really, the only exception I can
to just tell him the truth. “It’s called sexual intercourse, of pricks, and gives you a sense of security while you’re selling for $4,200 or a 2004 Suzuki Volusia selling for $5,500. think of would possibly be Halloween. But honestly, as expensive as most of the stuff we wear can be,
sweetie.” Little Ricky just said, “Oh, o.k.,” and went back actually being screwed! Damn, it just doesn’t get more For you American-built fans out there, a relatively new Harley- why would you do such a thing?
outside to play with Jimmy and the other kids. A few min- accurate than that. Davidson could be found at or around $10,000. Now if you’re I think I’m going to head down to the Goodwill and pick myself up some tree hugger clothes and go to a
utes later he came back in and said angrily, “Grandma, it like me, and a Victory is your choice, a brand spankin’ new, still Peta convention. When asked how long I’ve been a vegetarian I’ll simply reply with, “Huh? I had steak
is not called sexual intercourse. It’s called Bunk Beds, and While walking through Golden Gate Park in San in the wrapper bike can be acquired for around $13,000-$14,000 and eggs for breakfast!”
Jimmy’s Mom wants to talk to you right away.” Francisco , a man came upon another man hugging a for an entry-level model. (That’s gotta be worth a discount on my Joe K. - Tucson
tree with his ear firmly against the tree. Seeing this he next accessory purchase, right?) For a smidgen more, you can
A biker walks into a bar and takes a seat next to a very inquired, “Just out of curiosity, what the heck are you get yourself a brand new Harley. I almost forgot to add, the used
bikes I just mentioned were all listed for sale today. Overall, there
attractive woman. He gives her a quick glance, then doing?” “I’m listening to the music of the tree,” the other
were over 350 bikes listed for sale in just one day on this specific
causally looks at his watch for a moment. The woman man replied. “You’ve gotta be kiddin’ me.” “No, would website.
notices this and asks, ‘Is your date running late?” “No,” you like to give it a try?” Understandably curious, the Now I know what some people are thinking. I know that most of us
he replies. “I just got this state-of-the-art watch, and I was man says, “Well, OK...” So he wrapped his arms around out there don’t have several thousand just sitting around with noth-
testing it.” The intrigued woman says, “A state-of-the-art the tree and pressed his ear up against it. With this, the ing to spend it on. I know we all have our bills to pay. So I did a
watch? What’s so special about it?” The biker explains, “It other guy slapped a pair of handcuffs on him, took his little research. For those of us with, what the industry likes to call,
uses alpha waves to talk to me telepathically.” The lady wallet, jewelry, car keys, then stripped him naked and “less than perfect” credit, a five year loan on a $5000 dollar bike
says, “What’s it telling you now?” “It says you’re not wear- left. Two hours later another nature lover strolled by, will run you around $130 dollars a month. As a rule of thumb, if
ing any panties.” The woman giggles and replies ‘Well, saw this guy handcuffed to the tree stark naked, and you fall into that credit category you can expect to pay around $26
it must be broken because I am indeed wearing panties!” asked, “What the heck happened to you?” He told the dollars a month for every thousand dollars financed. For those
with slightly better credit that number drops down to $21 dollars a
The biker taps his watch a couple times, looks at it again, guy the whole terrible story about how he got there.
month. And still, for those of you with the best credit in the entire
and then grins and says, “The damn thing’s an hour fast.” When he finished telling his story, the other guy shook world and you qualify for those special finance offers that most
his head in sympathy, walked around behind him, of us dream of, that number drops down to around $17 dollars a
Two business men in New Jersey are sitting down for kissed him gently behind the ear and said, “This just month for every thousand financed.
a break in their soon-to-open new store. As yet, the store ain’t gonna be your day, cupcake...” . By now, you’re probably wondering when I’m going to get to my
isn’t ready -- only a few shelves are set-up. One says point. My point so far is that it’s not all that difficult to purchase
to the other, ‘I bet any minute now some jerk-off tourist Each Friday night after work, Bubba would fire up a motorcycle. It may not be the exact one you want right away,
is going to walk by, put his face to the window and ask his outdoor grill and cook a venison steak. But, all of but ask almost anyone out there and they will tell you as long as
what we’re selling.’ No sooner are the words out of his Bubba’s neighbors were Catholic.... And since it was your knees are in the wind, that’s all that matters. Yet still, all this
mouth when, sure enough, a curious hillbilly from Tennes- Lent, they were forbidden from eating meat on Friday. has been leading up to the true meaning of this story. The one
true thing that bothers me more than anything, Yes folks, it’s “the
see walks up to the window, has a peek, and in a slow The delicious aroma from the grilled venison steaks
poser.” We’ve all seen them and we all know who I’m talking
Southern drawl asks, ‘What’re ya’all sellin’ here?’ One of was causing such a problem for the Catholic faithful about. Something had to be said.
the Jersey guys replies, ‘Oh! we’re selling assholes here’. that they finally talked to their priest. The Priest came to Example 1. Just the other day I was standing in line at my local
Without skipping a beat, the hillbilly says, ‘Well, I see ya’all visit Bubba, and suggested that he become a Catholic. gas station picking up some last minute items on my way home
are doin’ real good. You only got two left.’ After several classes and much study, Bubba attended from work. In line in front of me was a couple that screamed
Mass....and as the priest sprinkled holy water over him, biker in every sense of the word, or at least they appeared to
A married couple in their early 60s was celebrating their he said, “You were born a Baptist, and raised a Baptist, be. The gentleman was wearing a nice new O.C.C. bandanna
35th wedding anniversary in a quiet, romantic little restau- but now you are a Catholic.” Bubba’s neighbors were with a matching sleeveless shirt. Included in this outfit was what
rant. Suddenly, a tiny yet beautiful fairy appeared on their greatly relieved, until Friday night arrived, and the won- appeared to be a rather expensive pair of Harley-Davidson boots,
table saying, ‘For being such an exemplary married couple derful aroma of grilled venison filled the neighborhood. and chain wallet. His “old lady” was even more equipped with an
O.C.C. leather jacket (perhaps it was just a patch sewn on, I hon-
and for being loving to each other for all this time, I will The Priest was called immediately by the neighbors,
estly don’t know for sure), riding boots, and bandanna. The Paul’s
grant you each a wish.’ Oh, I want to travel around the and, as he rushed into Bubba’s yard, clutching a rosary themselves would have been proud. At this point I became curious
world with my darling husband. The fairy waved her magic and prepared to scold him, he stopped and watched in and began to look around to see what bike they were riding.
wand and - poof! two tickets for the Queen Mary II ap- amazement. There stood Bubba, clutching a small Obviously someone who supports this company with this much
peared in her hands. The husband’ thought for a moment: bottle of holy water which he carefully sprinkled over conviction must be the proud owner of such a magnificent piece
‘Well, this is all very romantic, but an opportunity like this the grilling meat and chanted: “You wuz born a deer, of machinery, or at least something comparable. However, I didn’t
will never come again. I’m sorry my love, but my wish is you wuz raised a deer, but now you is a catfish.” see any bikes in the parking lot, so I figured it was probably parked
to have a wife 30 years younger than me.’ The wife, and around the corner. After they were done with their purchase I
the fairy, were deeply disappointed, but a wish is a wish. If you’re over 50 and not really happy with the way you watched them leave the gas station only to walk right up to a Ford
So the fairy waved her magic wand and poof! the husband look, just think of it this way. You have traveled many Bronco with, you guessed it, an O.C.C. decal in the back window.
I just shook my head in disbelief.
became 92 years old. long and winding roads in your life - and most of the
Example 2. Some co-workers and I were coming back from lunch.
damn things weren’t paved. While at a stop light one of my co-workers noticed a familiar iron
The Joker’s Wild
Thunder Roads Magazine
cross on the wheels of a brand new, lifted, Dodge Ram. A little
closer look at these wheels and we realized they were none other
Thunder Roads Magazine
has declined to pursue charges against Lane for her injuries.
Two Charges Dropped
Born To Be Wild…A Wild Success Against Celebrity Motorcycle Driving drunk or not, the prosecution now has the monumen-
tal burden of proving Billy Lane was solely responsible for
When an event is evaluated at the end of the day many Builder in a Fatal DUI Case killing Morelock, without any mitigating circumstances.
things have to be considered. Was it a repeat event or the
new kid on the block? Was it well attended or slow to catch Looks as if the defense can now just poke one tiny hole in
on? Did it live within its budget or burst at the seams? Were the prosecution’s argument, Billy is a free man.
the weather and venue cooperative? Did you reach your
goals? And, lastly, was it any fun?
By every measure the inaugural Poker Run sponsored by
Chester’s Harley Davidson Motor Cycles was a huge success.
By the start of the run the numbers had grown from a little
over one hundred early registrants to 250 riders. It all began
with a Chamber of Commerce perfect morning. Imagine the
electricity in the air as 250 rumbling bikes and their riders
started their engines and set out on the 96-mile course with
four stops to pick up the cards for the poker hand (the last
card was obtained at the end of the run). From all accounts
the bikes performed well, the riders were on top of it all and
the course provided a first hand look at the beauty of the
surrounding areas that we have all come to love. One of the
very best parts…. it was an injury free ride!
Greasewood Flat in North Scottsdale hosted the after ride The Florida State Attorney has dropped the driving on a
activities with beverages of your choice and some of the best suspended license and the driving under the influence with
hamburgers in town. Liberty Wildlife’s educational ambassa- serious bodily injury charges filed last year against Billy Lane.
dors wowed the entire venue with their message of conser-
Lane was initially arrested, September 25th 2007 and
vation and made the event not only fun but also educational
charged with DUI Manslaughter, driving on a suspended
in nature. The best poker hand was four eights…. hard to license, and driving under the influence with serious bodily
beat. The silent auction was hot and heavy. The raffle was a injuries in connection with a fatal accident September 4th
thrill for those who won. 2007. If convicted he would have faced up to 25 years.
The highlight of the event was the release of a red tailed Lane is now just being charged with the DUI manslaughter
hawk that had come in to the facility with a head injury, ironi- charge. If convicted, he could still face up to15 years in
cally the same kind of injury that bikers often suffer. Lori Florida State Prison. Tests show that Lane, who is accused
Healy released the rehabilitated bird on behalf of the present- of killing Gerald Morelock, had a blood alcohol level of more
ing sponsor, Chester’s Harley Davidson Motor Cycles. It than twice the legal limit at the time of the accident.
sprang into the air, lifted its body skyward and was soon a
The obvious question on the minds of most would be ‘why
speck in the sky…. no doubt happy to be home.
did they drop the two charges’?
Everything was perfect. The ride passed the test and will be The first one, the driving on a suspended license, stemmed
repeated again next spring, once again presented by Ches- from a case filed in June 2007 by the North Carolina High-
ter’s with our greatest gratitude. way patrol. The NCHP alleged that Lane was intoxicated at
the time of his arrest for driving on the wrong side of the road
and refusing to submit to a breath test. But the NCHP failed
to notify Florida, which would have suspended his Florida
license for a year.
So according to State Attorney’s spokeswoman, Lynne Bum-
pus-Hooper, since North Carolina authorities never reported
Lane’s refusal to take a breath test, coupled with the fact that
Lane was cleared of the North Carolina DUI charge in Octo-
ber 2007, the Brevard County prosecutors could not pursue
the suspended license charge.
The Florida Highway Patrol had also charged Lane with a
DUI causing serious bodily injury, but Bumpus-Hooper said
the passenger in Lane’s vehicle at the time of the accident
Thunder Roads Magazine Thunder Roads Magazine
Friday 23rd - Monday 26th - Seligman AZ -Annual Saturday 31th - New River, AZ. ABATE Shadow
Saturday 3rd - Mesa, AZ. Up In Smoke, This is Saturday 17th - Naco, AZ - Southern Arizona Seligman Trike In. It`s that time again..Pack up the Mtn Chapter. You Say You Want A Revolution?
a support party for the Phoenix 81 who lost their Harley Riders 17th Annual Run to the Border. Gay Trikes and head to Seligman AZ for our Annual Trike Join Us For ABATE’S Shadow Mountain Chapter
clubhouse to an accidental fire recently. It starts at 90’s Bar since 1931, Address: 3856 S. Towner in. There are lots to do in just a few short days. 9TH Annniversary Party at Poor Reds Station
3:00pm on Saturday, May 3rd at the Lost Dutchman Ave, Naco, AZ. Registration will open at 9:00 AM, * Trike & Bike Show*Trike & Bike Games *Poker Restaurant - 47020 N Black Canyon Hwy in New
M/C’s clubhouse in Mesa. There will be food and $15.00 per person or $25.00 per couple on same Run* Karaoke * Door Prizes *Silent Auction *50/50, River. Starts at Noon - 4 PM. Live Band / 50/50
drink, a “Finey Hiney” contest, “Sumo Wrestling”, bike. Run is from 9 AM- 12 midnight, Live band, Dancing at the Snow Cap, BBQ with the Chamber / Bike Show / Other Events TBA. http://www.
live music and a Motorcycle Stunt team will perform, biker games,vendors, 50/50 drawings, secure M/C
along with who knows what. Come for some of Commerce, Ride to the Caverns.... And good old abateofaz.org/
parking w/admission, HAVE-A-CLUE RIDE, kids friends and family gatherings. If you missed it last
good clean fun. See ya there. party on. More info:
games, door prizes, silent auction, bike show w/the year, you’re in for a treat this year! So make your Saturday, May 31, 2008 Two Gals Events
billetldmc@juno.com
best trophies, DJ music. All makes and models of reservations today! See our web site for reservation PROUDY presents: THE INAUGURAL Bear
motorcycles are welcome! Check out our website for information, just go to the Seligman 2008 and Necessities RIDE To support pediatric cancer
Tuesday 6th - Thursday 8th - Sedona, AZ CVO GET
TOGETHER. Radisson resort in Sedona, daily rides, nearby hotel listings and more info: WWW.SAHR. click on it for all the updates.WWW.BTW-West- patients at: Banner children’s Hospital at Banner
for more info check out http://www.cvoharley.com/ ORG. It will be a great time we hope to see you all EndChapter.com Hope to see you ALL there with Desert Medical Center.
there! For more information contact Vendors: Dan BIG Smiles on ya faces
Saturday 10th - Yarnell, AZ. 3rd Annual Poker Run Marlo (520) 678-0336 email: a4570govt@gmail.com 4:00 p.m. - until?????? At the Chandler Elks Lodge
presented by American Legion Riders Post 79. Chairperson: Allen Brackhahn (520) 249-1273 or Friday 23rd - Sunday 25th - Overgaard, AZ. MMA # 2429 1775 W Chandler Blvd Chandler, Ariz.
Registration starts at Post 79 - 22911 Looka Way in email: allenbauto@yahoo.com or Suzi Brackhahn State Rally. Memorial Weekend All Welcome.
Yarnell and will end there as well. $15 per person (520) 249-3939 email: suzibrack@aol.com Pre- Admission: $15 Per Person For The Entire Make a difference in a child’s life by donating a
donation is requested. Includes run sheet and lunch. registration: Rose Confer (520) 378-0820 email: Weekend $5 Per Person, Per Day or $25 Per new, unwrapped item to support the Child Life
Ride pins for the first 100 who register. 50/50 will also rconfer@powerc.net Couple, With Children. Children Under 12 — Free. Department at Banner Children’s Hospital at
be available / $1 draft beer. For more information
Free Dry Camping in the Mountains and Ponderosa Banner Desert Medical Center. $10pp includes
email prescottbikers@hotmail.com
Pines, No Open Fires! (Arrive Thursday and Set Up meal. Join us for the ride, live music, raffles, Door
Saturday 17th - Chino Valley, AZ ABATE of Arizona- Camp). Brother Hood Of Blues Band Appearing prizes & 50/50
Saturday 10th - Clifton, AZ. 2nd Annual Run for the Yavapai Chapter presents its Annual Spring Run.
Bluff. Memorial events and ceremonies to honor all Friday and Saturday Night. Weekend Activities:
Sign in: Between 10:00am – 11:00am at Chino Bike Games / Bikeshow / Saturday Poker Run / Suggested items for teens: Art Supplies (E.g.
veterans from all wars and conflicts who served and
Valley Cycles, 980 N. US Hwy. 89 ph# 928-636- Vendors / Food / Bar / Honor Guard / Bike Blessing construction paper, crayons Colored pencils,
for those who sacrificed all for our freedom KIA / MIA
0146. Open House includes coffee, donuts and / •All This and More at: The Cabin Bar & Grill - Hwy markers, etc.) Bath products, Board games, Books,
/ POW.
water. All are welcome for a $10.00 donation. 260, West Of Hwy 277 ( Next To Pizza Time Pizza) CD’s, Computer games, DVD movies (PG – 13),
Ride through the Mingus Mtns. to Sedona onto the in Overgaard, Az. BIKER/FAMILY FUN. NO GUNS Electronic handheld games, Make–up, Model cars,
Meet at these locations: 5:00 am NE corner Power
Rd./Baseline depart 05:30am Apache Gold Casino Old Corral in Cornville and ending at the Pinon - NO ATTITUDES - ALL ANIMALS LEASHED. For MP3 players / ipods, Pajamas, Sports equipment,
Globe AZ depart 07:00am US60E City Park in Safford Pines with half price first beverage and half price more Information call Cindi Gates 623-695-5659 or Toiletries, Video games & Card games.
AZ depart 08:45am US70E CLIFTON AZ 0:945 appetizers to all participating riders. Live music email cgates@carlsonwagonlit.com
US191N from 4:00pm-Midnight. Featured band “Miles of Suggested items for toddlers & infants: Sleepers,
Country” will play from 8:00pm-Midnight. Pinon Monday 26th - Phoenix, AZ. 2nd Annual Phoenix Blankets, Teething toys, Infant toys, Light up toys,
Hosted by: Mares Bluff Veterans Memorial Pines is located at 270l E. Hwy 89A in Prescott ph# Memorial Day Rally. Join Riders USA as they pay Musical toys, Puzzles, Rattles, Remote Control
Committee. This event is open to the public NO 928-445-9935. 50/50, raffles and high low hand tribute to our fallen heroes at Phoenix National toys, Rescue Heroes, Stuffed animals, Toddler,
attitudes! Memorial services and ceremonies to pay will be announced. Poker hand is free. FMI call: Cemetery - 23029 N. Cave Creek Road in Phoenix. toys (e.g. Little People play sets), View Masters,
tribute to all the men and women who served and are Ross 928-925-4204 or Don 928-308-0927. Maps
Bikes should line up on the East side of the road, Educational computer software, Sticker books,
serving. 11:00 am Mares Bluff ceremonies to honor available at sign in. south of Pinnacle Peak Road. Back in place and Coloring books.
all veterans and other special events. Free lunch and
display your flags for all to see. This not a protest
beverages immediately following ceremony. Free Saturday 17th - Mesa, AZ MMA Salt River District of any sorts we are paying tribute to those that For more information: twogalsevents@aol.com
camping and RV parking available. Free door prizes, 3rd Annual Bikini Bike Wash and Swap Meet.
50/50 raffle Questions? Oscar Urrea 602-677-6835 have paid the supreme price in protecting our Melissa 602-568-5313 or Dawn 480-213-1184
Rooster’s - 3717 E Main Street, Mesa, 10am - sovereignty. After the ceremonies, we will ride
/ Bob Chacon 602-377-3704 In Clifton Steve Guzzo
2pm. Bike wash $5.00 donation. Swap meet entries to Cave Creek for some lunch at a place to be
928-865-5551 In Safford Ernie Rodriguez 928-322-
$10.00 for member/vendors and $15.00 for non- determined. The cost for this event is displaying one
0719
member/vendors. Come get your bike washed by or more flags on or at your bike while parked along
Sponsored by Hacienda Harley Davidson, In Country bikini clad beauties and help the MMA raise funds side the road. Thousands of passing cars going into
Vietnam Veterans, and American Legion Post 28 and for the NCOM conference sharing information the Cemetery will be giving you a salute, thumbs up
Auxiliary unit. American Legion Post 32 and post 32 pertinent to Motorcycle riders and their Rights. Bike or just a big THANK YOU smile for your tribute to
Legion Riders / American Legion Post 95 wash - Food - Fun - Swap Meet - Vendors their loved ones now residing in this Cemetery.
Thunder Roads Magazine 0 Thunder Roads Magazine
I Like To Know Who My Friends Are opinion, highway access, and the relationship between
federal power and state prerogatives. They also pressure Chester’s Harley-Davidson to open new dealership in Gilbert
I like to know who helps me ride safer and who is working regulatory agencies like EPA, NHTSA, and NTSB to stay
against me. Unfortunately, most riders don’t know who their away from discriminatory rulings against motorcyclists. MESA, AZ
friends are. They don’t realize that there is an organization
in Washington, DC that has been working for them for the The MRF was started in 1984 by motorcyclists, and to Chester’s Harley-Davidson will soon expand its service for East Valley Harley-Davidson riders.
past 20 years. This organization works to make sure that this day is run by motorcyclists. All financial support for
the best interests of motorcyclists’ are represented when the organization is generated from within the motorcycling
The Harley-Davidson Motor Company has recently authorized Chester’s Harley-Davidson to construct a new Retail and
motorcycle-related issues come up in the US government. population.
Service facility in the San Tan Motorplex.
That organization is the Motorcycle Riders Foundation This is your chance to thank your friends. Help the people
who have been helping you for 20+ years. They will keep Located at the intersection of Val Vista and Pecos Roads in Gilbert, just off of the 202, San Tan Freeway this facility will of-
(MRF). The MRF has a full-time lobbyist and office in DC
you informed about issues that directly affect you. The only fer a full range of Harley-Davidson products and services. Chester’s has concluded negotiations for the purchase of a four
and they are funded by memberships. Most riders don’t
know about the MRF so they don’t support the MRF. I know way to keep yourself educated on the issues that face bik- acre property and begun work on plans and permits for a 2009 start date with a grand opening of the new facility expected
about the MRF and they are my friends. ers is to join the MRF and understand what they are doing to take place on or about January 1, 2010.
for you. Joining the MRF currently costs $25 per year, but
The MRF is fighting to make sure my medical claims are will increase to $30/year in June of this year.. Compare that Chester’s Harley-Davidson will offer a complete shopping experience for its customers in its new facility including new and
paid by my insurance company should I get hurt on my to the value you place on riding. How much did that last pre-owned motorcycle sales, service, parts, accessories and motorclothes.
motorcycle. They are fighting to secure funding for rider piece of chrome cost?
training and road improvements. Road improvements that The new dealership, an extension of its main operation on Country Club Drive in Mesa, is expected to be approximately a
include paving streets and fixing pot holes. Riding on safe Don’t forget to thank your friends in Washington, DC by
joining the MRF. You can join online at http://www.mrf.org 30,000 square foot facility. It will incorporate all of the latest dealership design technology with a theme in keeping with its
roads is important to me. They have pressured the EPA new location.
for my right to modify and customize my bike – a right that Protect your Freedoms! Join your state SMRO and the MRF
whether you realize it or not – we are losing! The MRF is today!
The news about this new facility has created a great deal of excitement among Chester’s customers and supporters.
a national motorcyclists’ rights organization (MRO) that is Copyright by NCRider.com 2005 and reprinted with permission. Permission
working for the rights of all of America’s motorcyclists. The Members of the Chester family and their associates look forward to continuing the expansion of its Harley-Davidson mo-
granted to MRF reps to reprint wherever it will do good for the motorcycling
MRF is our voice in Washington, DC and lobbies for fair population! torcycle business and further serving the needs of its many customers from this new location.
federal level motorcycle legislation. They also support riders
on state level legislative issues as well. Sent to us by Eric Hampton MRF - Director of Communica- Chester’s Harley-Davidson currently serves the East Valley and beyond from a 45,000 Square foot facility on Country
tions, MRF Reports Editor Club Drive in Mesa. Chester’s offering of new and nearly new motorcycle sales, service, parts and accessories, rental
The MRF are not “sport bikers”. They are not “Harley ABATE of AZ - Masterlink Editor motorcycles and rider training from this facility will not be affected by this expansion.
people”. They are not a “white guys organization”, they are Written by Vinny Neuman
not a “black biker organization”, they are not a “Hispanic For more information contact:
bikers organization”, etc. They are bikers! It’s not about E.B. Chester eb@chestershd.com
color, and it’s not about the style of riding you do or the type Lon Carruth lcarruth@chestershd.com
of bike you own.
When a bill turns into a law in Washington, DC, it affects
all bikers regardless of race and type of bike. The MRF is
bi-partisan. They are partisan about one thing and one thing
only – motorcycling. They are women and men of every
race, creed, and political party devoted to one cause – rid-
ers’ rights and safety. MRF members are committed to each
other as brothers and sisters.
The MRF’s public policy interests are the protection of rid-
ers’ interests across the board: Highway safety, personal
liberty, law enforcement, health care, discrimination, public
Thunder Roads Magazine Thunder Roads Magazine
Missouri Motorcycle Fatality for younger drivers and any driver on interstate highways.
Motorcycle Clubs & Organizations Rates Among Highest In Nation The bill is now before the full Senate and, if passed, would
have to be renewed in 2013.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) -- Missouri is one of most danger-
The Arizona Confederation of Rough Riders MC Southern Area Chapter ous places in the U.S. to ride a motorcycle, according to a “I think it’s a matter of personal freedom,” Ridgeway said.
Motorcycle Clubs www.rough-riders-mc.com Director: Paul “Kojack” Galla published report. “We don’t require it for virtually anything else, but we have
An elite group of select Motorcycle Huachuca singled out this segment of our society.”
Clubs and Organizations dedicated to Sober Riders MC Phone: 520-456-0250 Between 2002 and 2006, the state’s annual fatality rate
fighting for the freedoms of all and to www.soberridersmc.com/ remained constant at between nine She said that those who support helmet laws, including My-
preserving our way of life. and 12 deaths per 10,000 registered riders, the Springfield ers’ program and the Missouri
West-End Area Chapter
Sun Riders MC News-Leader reported in its Sunday editions. While other Department of Transportation, need to consider factors other
Director: Bill Newwill
ACMC, Arizona confederation of www.sunridersmc.com states have seen their rates increase, Missouri’s rate is still than just statistics tracking traffic accidents and fatalities.
Motorcycle Clubs, Phone: 623-322-6666
www.sunridersmc.org among the highest in the nation, ranking ninth in 2006 and
www.azcmc.com contact: Mama Bear 10th in 2005. “We do not have enough data to determine whether speed
azcmc.webmaster@azcmc.org, Desert Renegades Chapter was the primary factor, whether the carelessness of an au-
sunridersmc@aol.com John Letourneau tomobile driver was a contributing factor, whether alcohol or
The newspaper-reviewed data from the National Highway
Arizona Sun Chasers MC Tucson Area Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting drug use was a contributing factor,” she said.
Vietnam Vets / Legacy Vets M/C
Contact by email 520-578-2522 System and found 390 motorcyclists died on Missouri roads
Siquepuppy@cox.net Contact CHUBASCO
from 2002-2006. It found that 58 percent of the fatal crashes Ridgeway also noted that the state doesn’t require helmets
www.ArizonaSunChasers.org Arizona State President for other potentially hazardous
VNVCHUBASCO@aol.com STAR Riding Association occurred in rural areas and only 44 percent of them involved
Phone: 1-800-422-1041 another vehicle. Ninety-two percent of those killed were white activities, such as skiing, horseback riding or even driving an
Bikers For Christ 602 692-2517 automobile.
males and the average age was 38, with slightly less than
Contact is Zak (Preacher) Saenz half being 40 or older.
MROs Chapter 113 Phoenix
truefaithministry@hotmail.com “There’s trade-offs in exchange for a modicum of freedom,”
www.angelfire.com/az3/bfcphoenix www.star113.org she said.
www.startouring.org “What we’re finding here in Missouri is it’s that middle-aged
480.732.1854 Abate of Arizona - MRO
group that seems to be dying the most,” said Neil Myers,
16009 N. 22 ST, 85022-3415, state coordinator for the Missouri Motorcycle Safety Pro- Myers said there’s considerable research supporting the
Desert Road Riders MC (602) - 867 - 9829 Chapter 347 Superstition Mnts safety benefits of helmets as well as common sense.
gram. Myers said a number of factors seemed to be fueling
P. O. Box 9865 www.abateofaz.org www.star347.org the trend including people seeking to take advantage of mo-
Fort Mohave, Arizona 86427 President: Marlene Strickland torcycles’ better gas mileage and baby boomers who used to “No professional (motorcycle) race will let you race without a
Phone (928) 758-5699 Modified Motorcycle Assn. Of Phone: (480) 220-4915 ride getting back into it. helmet, so that ought to tell you something,” he said.
www.desertroadriders.com Arizona
Mailing address: Riding Clubs He said some drivers don’t realize today’s motorcycles are While he appreciated that Ridgeway’s bill keeps helmets
Desert Thunder MC MMA of Arizona state office much more powerful than they remember. “The bike is twice required for younger drivers and
www.desertthundermc.com Pmb 138, P.O. Box 30280 the size of what they used to ride, and of course our physical motorcycles on interstate highways, he said it misses a large
Just Us PSMC
lodur@desertthundermc.com Phoenix, AZ 85046-0280 abilities are not quite what they were when we were young- part of the problem.
www.justuspsmc.com
www.mma_az.org er,” he said.
Hells Angels MC About 16 percent of motorcycle drivers killed between 2002
ACMC Contact Person “Sisters of Scota WMC and 2006 were 21 years or younger and Myers said data
List Your ACMC Sanctioned Club The newspaper’s analysis also found that about 18 percent
HOWIE, Mr81@cox.net National Headquarters
E-mail: thunderroadsaz@msn.com of killed drivers were not wearing a helmet and another 3 per- shows few fatal accidents occur on the highway.
www.azcmc.com/hamc.html P.O. Box 92 cent died when they weren’t wearing their helmets correctly.
4/2008
Dobbins, California 95935 “The rural two-lane is where you most need the helmets,” he
Huns MC (530) 692-9467 Missouri’s helmet law, passed in 1967, requires all motorcy- said.
tucson@thehunsmc.net Associations
soswmc@hotmail.com cle riders to wear a helmet, but lawmakers attempt to kill the
www.thehunsmc.net www.sistersofscotawmc.org law almost every year. State Sen. Luann Ridgeway, R-Smith- TRM AZ editors question, to Mr. Neil Myers, state coordinator
AHDRA - All Harley Drag
Racing Association Chapters in Arizona and most western ville, is sponsoring this year’s version, which would eliminate for the Missouri Motorcycle Safety Program. If the consider-
IOOB MC – Tucson Tribe the helmet requirement for drivers 21 and older but retain it able research supporting the safety benefits of helmets is cor-
Website: www.ahdra.com states.”
www.ioobmctucson.com rect, then why isn’t the helmet law saving them all in Missouri?
Lost Dutchman MC Brothers of the Third Wheel This Page is donated by Thunder Roads
www.lostdutchmanmc.com Jim and Lady Sickler to the Local M/C, Org’s & Assn’s. For
International Directors - Aba MO the purpose of helping Them get the
Medieval Maidens MC Email btw@btw-triker.org much-needed information out to the
Suite 103, # 487 Peoria, AZ 85382 riders of Arizona, If we do not have your
PaulR @ 623-734-7405 Director: State of AZ & M/C, Org, Assn. Listed and you would
WWW.MedievalMaidensMC.com Superstition Area Chapter like for it to be OR if we have your M/C,
Director: Gary “Shorty” Hicks Org, Assn. listed here And you do not
Nomaden MC Phone: 480-969-5199 wish to have it listed here contact
Contact azbiker1@msn.com
thunderroadsaz@aol.com
High-Country Area Chapter 4/2008
Whisper’s Crew Director: Larry “Tank” Jones
Tucson/Cave Creek
Prescott Valley
vato1inaz@hotmail.com
Phone: 928-772-0152
Thunder Roads Magazine Thunder Roads Magazine 5
Thunder Roads Magazine Thunder Roads Magazine
VODKA-POACHED SALMON frying pan and saute’ for apprx. 4 minutes, then add your
WITH CILANTRO PESTO Kielbasa pieces. You want to caramelize the onion really
brown and sweet and singe the Kielbasa all over and on
2 Whole Limes the sides too. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water
1/2 Cup Vodka to boil, add your egg noodles and cook thoroughly until
4 (6 ox.) Skinless Salmon Fillets, apprx. 1-inch thick tender. Drain. Transfer noodles to large mixing/serving
bowl. Add your margarine, blend well, add salt & pepper
CILANTRO PESTO to taste, Add the entire package of Parmesan cheese
and mix thoroughly until cheese is melted down and well
1 Large Bunch of Cilantro, leaves removed (about 5 cups blende4d. Now, gently add your Kielbasa & caramelized
worth) onions. Fold easily to mix with noodles. Serve up with a
1/2 Cup Pine Nuts, Toasted (just throw on a baking pan, fresh salad and hot crusty garlic bread. Delish!
toss around w/ some Olive Oil and throw in oven at 375
for about 20 mins.)
1 Small Red Chile, seeded & chopped THUNDER ROADS PEANUT BUTTER
2 Cloves of Garlic STRIPED DELIGHT
1/2 Cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil 1/2 Cup Freshly Grated
Parmesan Cheese 1 Pre-made Oreo Cookie Pie Shell
3 Tbls. Mayonnaise 1 Pkg. Philly Cream Cheese, softened
Salt & Fresh Ground Pepper to Taste 1 Cup Sugar or Splenda for baking
3 Cups, Plus 2 Tbls. Cold Whole Milk, divided
Heat oven to 375 degrees. Grate zest from limes and 1 Tub (8 ox.) of Cool Whip topping, divided
squeeze juice. Combine lime zest, lime juice and vodka in 2 Pkgs. Jell-O Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding & Pie
a shallow nonmetallic baking dish. Add salmon fillets; turn Filling
to coat. Marinate for 15 minutes. (Do Not marinate any 1/2 Cup of Premium Peanut Butter
longer as will get mushy.)
Pesto: In a food processor, add cilantro, pine nuts, chile Beat Cream cheese, sugar and 2 Tbls. of whole milk in a
and garlic. Process to finely chop. With motor running, separate bowl with wire whisk until well blended.
drizzle in oil in a thin stream. Transfer to a bowl and stir in Add 1-1/4 cups of the whippe4d topping; mix well.
Parmesan and mayo. Sprinkle salmon with salt and pep- Spread over crust. Pour remaining 3 cups of milk into
per. Cover baking dish tightly with foil. Bake salmon 12 to large bowl. Add dry pudding mixes. Beat with wire whisk
15 minutes only, until salmon is just opaque. 2 mins. or until well blended. Add peanut butter; mix well.
Serve salmon with generous amount of pesto on top, run- Spread evenly over cream cheese layer. Let stand 5
ning the entire length of salmon. Primo! mins. or until thickened. Top with remaining Cool Whip.
Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours before cutting into
REALLY CHEESEY KIELBASA & NOODLES pieces to serve. Crush up some actual Oreo cookies in a
plastic bag, into small pieces and when you cut up pieces
1 Pkg. of Kielbasa (there’s 2 logs to a package) to serve, sprinkle the top of each serving with crushed
2 Cups of Extra-Wide Egg Noodles up Oreos. Don’t worry about storing any leftovers in the
1 Large Softball Sized Onion fridge, cause’ there won’t be any. :)
1 Pkg. (8 oz.) of Finely Shredded Parmesan Cheese
3 Heaping Tbls. of Premium Margarine * If you’ve always been a big fan of Tony the Tiger’s
Frosted Flakes, check out the new GOLD Frosted Flakes,
Cut Kielbasa into 1” pieces, both logs. Put a dab of coated in pure honey. They’re GRRRRRREAT!!!!
margarine or Extra Virgin Olive Oil in a large frying pan
and chop up your onion into large, thin strips. Toss in
Thunder Roads Magazine Thunder Roads Magazine
News Bytes News Bytes
MOTORCYCLE OWNERS HAPPIER cycle ownership are Eugene-Springfield , Oregon (13.8% PUSH HELMET LAWS, LOSE YOUR JOB! also pledged to vote against any helmet legislation. ABATE
Overall satisfaction with the motorcycle ownership experi- adult motorcycle ownership), Colorado Springs , Colorado The former executive director of the Louisiana Safety Com- is asking concerned riders to help spread the word to flood
ence has increased in the past five years, according to (13.1%), Milwaukee-Racine , Wisconsin - home of Harley mission, who has pushed helmet laws throughout three the voting booths with motorcyclists for the Primary election,
the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Motorcycle Competi- Davidson Motor Company (12.9%), Portland , Oregon gubernatorial administrations, said he was fired because he and due to historically light voter turnout bikers could easily
tive Information Study released today.The study finds that (12.4%), and Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota (12.3%). disagrees with now-Governor Bobby Jindal’s efforts to re- swing the election. The National Coalition of Motorcyclists
improvements made in product satisfaction and dealership repeal their state’s helmet mandate for adult riders. would also like to take this opportunity to welcome ABATE
service have helped drive the increase in overall ownership MOTORCYCLE SALES SURGE IN EUROPE Louisiana State Police Colonel James Champagne, who of the Garden State as one of our newest NCOM Member
satisfaction across the industry. Service, build quality and The European PTW (Powered Two-Wheelers) motorcycle has held his post for 12 years throughout their on-again- Groups. For further details, visit their website at
product/performance primarily drive the overall motorcycle market is still flourishing. After breaking the 2 million units off-again helmet law, was abruptly terminated March 25th, www.gardenstateabate.org.
ownership experience. Overall satisfaction with the cost of threshold in 2005, it touched the 2.5 million units landmark saying his dismissal followed a meeting with the governor’s
ownership has increased among motorcycle owners for a at the end of 2007. Last year the PTW market grew by a chief of staff because “I refused to compromise my views WEIRD NEWS: ANGRY BIKES CAN SAVE LIVES
second consecutive year, with owners being most satisfied remarkable 10.1%. According to figures transmitted by the on the helmet issue.” Champagne testified in commit- Honda Motor Company scientists studying the way the
with the initial price and resale value of their bike. Satisfac- ACEM statistical correspondents the trend of the 50cc seg- tee against Jindal’s former boss and mentor ex-Governor brain reacts to different imagery found that motorcycles that
tion with maintenance/repair costs, cost of accessories ment (mopeds and scooters) is now positively oriented after Mike “Big Daddy” Foster’s successful push to abolish the resemble a human face - especially an angry one evoked
and insurance has also increased. Motorcycle owners are 10 consecutive years of decline, and the volume approach- state’s helmet law back in 1999, and then testified in favor with diagonal headlights and abbreviated nose - are “signifi-
strong advocates of their brand and dealer, as 68 percent es one million units. For 2007 the registrations of motor- of outgoing Governor Kathleen Blanco’s successful drive to cantly” more visible to other drivers. Measurements taken
“definitely will” recommend their brand and 56 percent will cycles over 50cc recorded the 5th consecutive positive year restore the helmet law in 2004. Foster once hinted publicly with functional magnetic resonance imaging confirm that a
recommend the dealer from which they purchased their mo- with +3% and 1.5 million units. Since 2002, when the PTW that Champagne ‘s position on motorcycle helmets could more lifelike front-end design “elicits a response similar to
torcycle. “Loyalty and advocacy levels are particularly high registrations reached their lowest point (1.873.822 units), cost him his job. Enter newly-elected Gov. Jindal, who that when a human face is seen,” suggesting that other driv-
among motorcycle owners when compared with owners in the market has recovered steadily and in 2007 it reached favors repeal of the mandatory helmet law as a freedom of ers will more quickly recognize the motorcycle’s presence
the automotive and boating industries,” said research man- 2.5 million vehicles, with a +32% increase. The current fleet choice issue, and looks to fulfill one of his few specific cam- and react accordingly. “People in four-wheeled vehicles will
ager Tim Fox. “For example, only 47 percent of boat and of PTWs in Europe amounts to approximately 30.000.000 paign promises. At least two bills are pending in the Legisla- see not just motorcycles coming at them but motorcycles
35 percent of auto owners say they are loyal to their brand. vehicles. Over the last few years, EU market trends clearly ture that would repeal the helmet requirements for adults. with human characteristics and faces,” says Charles Kenny,
The motorcycle industry is much more of a niche market show that motorcycles answer the mobility needs of an Jindal replaces Champagne with the former head of Big president of Right Brain People, a consumer psychology
where consumers have a particularly strong allegiance to a increasingly higher share of the European population. Daddy’s security detail during his terms as governor, 26- firm specializing in motor vehicles. “It connects to some-
brand compared with automotive and marine industries.” year veteran of the State Police Col. John LeBlanc, who thing very basic in the psyche that goes back to when they
Now in its 10th year, the study measures owner satisfac- UNFAMILIAR BIKES INVITE PROBLEMS has said that will not take a position in the Legislature on were little children.” By way of example, Kenny points to
tion with new motorcycles by examining five major compo- Experienced riders drastically increase their chances of the helmet issue. In 2004 the state had 80 motorcycle fatali- the Disney movie Cars, and to kids’ toys such as Thomas
nents of the overall ownership experience: product; quality; crashing simply by riding a different motorcycle, an insur- ties, but despite the helmet requirement that figure rose & Friends trains, both of which cause youngsters to emo-
cost of ownership; sales; and service. The 2007 Motorcycle ance study has found. Even experienced riders can be to 95 in 2006, when Louisiana ranked No. 3 in the highest tionally identify with inanimate objects. “The human brain,”
Competitive Information Study includes responses from pretty wobbly when they hop on an unfamiliar bike, accord- number of motorcycle death rates per 10,000 registered Honda’s 2005 study explains, “exhibits a strong response
8,796 owners who purchased new on-road motorcycles ing to data from the country’s largest motorcycle insurer, motorcycles with a death rate of 15.5 per 10,000 registered to facial patterns, especially to the eyes and mouth.” The
between September 2006 and May 2007. Progressive, which conducted a study of almost 2 million motorcycles; more than double the national rate (nationally, observation led to the extrapolation that human-looking
motorcycle policies over a five-year period and found that in 2006, 7.3 motorcyclists were killed for every 10,000 reg- bikes are more quickly recognized by motorists, making
TOP US MARKETS FOR MOTORCYCLE OWNERSHIP riders who switch bikes are nearly 70 percent more likely to istered motorcycles on the road). Neighboring Mississippi, them more easily avoided. Major manufacturers such as
A new study from The Media Audit reveals that Spokane crash than riders who keep the same bike. “Most people al- which also has a helmet law, ranked No. 1 in the NHTSA Suzuki, Kawasaki, Honda, Yamaha, Buell, Triumph and
, Washington is the top market in the U.S. for motorcycle ready know that riding can be especially dangerous for new data with 20 riders killed per 100,000 bikes. The report Ducati all feature 2008 sportbikes fitted with menacing cat’s
ownership. Among adults who live in Spokane , 18.5% own bikers,” said Rick Stern, a Progressive motorcycle product also noted that nationwide in 2006 just 1 in 2 riders wore a eye headlights, and according to Money.CNN.com the new
a motorcycle, compared to 9% for all U.S. adults. Other manager who is also a rider. “But our data shows that the helmet, but 42% of motorcyclists killed in crashes between Honda DN-01 deliberately incorporates a human look into
markets with a high percentage of motorcycle ownership less familiar you are with your bike, the more likely you are 2002 and 2006 were not wearing helmets. “The legislative its front view. “The sportbike community really wants an
include Riverside-San Bernardino, California (18.4%), fol- to be involved in a collision, regardless of your experience.” session is in full swing and now is the time for the members aggressive, hard-edged design,” says John Paolo Canton,
lowed by Reno , Nevada (15.2%), Boise , Idaho (14.8%) The study also found cruiser riders who switch to sport of the motorcycling community to start voicing their opinions spokesman for Ducati North America. “Nobody wants to buy
and Salt Lake City , Utah (14%). According to the Motor- bikes are three-and-a-half times more likely to crash. That’s and let the politicians of this State know that we are voting, a 300-km/h motorcycle that looks cute.” With motorcycle
cycle Industry Council (MIC), new motorcycle retail sales more than double the risk they’d have than if they just tax paying, constituents of theirs,” said Poet, State Execu- use worldwide near an all-time high, “conspicuity enhance-
equaled an estimated $10.7 billion in 2006, the highest switched to another cruiser. Sport bikers, on the other hand, tive President of ABATE of Louisiana. “Remember: One ment” as researchers call it, can help promote awareness
level in 25 years. The MIC attributes the recent growth to can reduce their risk by more than a third just by switching voice is but a whisper, but a thousand voices are a ROAR!” and avoidance of motorcycles sharing the road.
the rise in popularity of motor scooters and increase in fe- to a cruiser, according to Progressive’s research. “We want
male riders. Today, there are more than 450 models on the experienced riders to know their risks so they can take extra UNEMPLOYMENT LINE, PART II QUOTABLE QUOTE: “For if men are to be precluded from
market, from cruisers to sport bikes to smaller fuel efficient precautions when they replace their bikes,” said Stern. “It’s New Jersey Senator Frank Lautenberg is the biggest offering their sentiments on a matter...reason is of no use
commuter bikes. According to The Media Audit, a major- a good idea for riders to take their new bike out for a couple helmet-pusher in Congress, but he may be facing stiff to us...dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep, to the
ity of motorcycle owners are married (59.2 percent) with of shake down cruises in a parking lot before hitting the competition for his job in the upcoming election. ABATE of slaughter.”
an average age of 41 years. Adults who own a motorcycle open road.”Even people who have been riding for years can the Golden State is backing U.S. Representative Robert George Washington
earn $77,714 in annual household income, a figure that is benefit from practicing the basics on their new bike, Stern Andrews in his bid to replace the 84-year-old four-term
$12,424 higher than the household income for the average said, including low-speed riding, turning, shifting and swerv- nannycrat. As a 9-term veteran of the U.S. House, Andrews
U.S. adult. Rounding out the top ten markets for motor- ing, and higher-speed panic stopping. has worked with motorcyclists and sponsored the HIPPA
bill to protect motorcyclists’ health care coverage and has
Thunder Roads Magazine 0 Thunder Roads Magazine
BLOW WINDS, BLOW!
BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY
or zigzags and corrections in their The rim of a DOT half-helmet cre-
lanes. Watch for swinging signs by the
ates a hazard in heavy crosswinds;
By John Del Santo highway pushed by gusts of wind, and
the wind will spend the whole day
dust devils swirling like mini-tornados
catching that rim, trying to tug your
“What you can’t see won’t hurt you”. coming across the fields towards you.
neck off! Better to choose another
Attorneys Sales & Service Trikes type of headgear. Clothing that is
Anyone who believes that old say- There is mixed opinion about whether
Law Tigers Acme Cycle ing never spent much time riding a or not solid rims will affect your lane tighter gives the wind less to grab
Southwest Trikes motorcycle across the Desert! …. But onto, therefore giving you a smoother
Administrative Offices 7643 N 69th Ave. 16521 N Cave Creek Rd. control adversely in heavy winds, and
362 North 3rd Avenue Glendale, AZ 85303 you can be riding in any part of the if you happen to be using a windscreen ride, burning less of your energy, and
Phx. AZ 85032 country and run into treacherous wind, for the first time, be ready for it to push leaving you in better shape at the end
Phoenix, AZ 85003 Phone: 623-915-4999 602-374-3510 and crosswinds can be meaner than a you around a bit more with a ‘sail’ ef-
Toll Free 1-888-529-8443 of the day.
Website: www.lawtigers.com AZ Toy Store scorned lover. Actually, when you are fect. Fighting the wind is a workout…
1313 S. Country Club Dr. Motorcycle Training Facilities going down the highway leaned over at we should be ready to take a break
Leathers and Accessories Mesa, AZ 85210 a 45-degree angle, you already KNOW and sit it out for a while. Even clothing So blow winds, blow…but the pre-
480.649.3299 Arizona Motorcycle Rider Training that conditions are dangerous, and you can make a difference to the comfort of pared rider will be ready for you. You
Arizona Biker Leather aztoystore.com (MRT) will be less likely to be surprised by can huff and you can puff, But you’re
your ride. The more skin that you have not gonna blow this rider down!
N th Ave 6960 West Peoria Avenue another change in the airflow. showing, the more the wind will dry you
Phoenix, AZ 50 Bikers’ Bay #148, Peoria, AZ 85345 out, causing the need for more to drink
0..5 www.mybikersbay.com (623) 979-1839 or (623) 435-5699 As you are moving up to pass a truck, at your next stop.
ask yourself “is this pass necessary?”
Crown King Customs, LLC Bikers’ Bay - Phoenix, Then keep a healthy open space next
Motorcycle Rentals to you. The crosswind will increase or
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602 -373-0260 Steel Eagles, Motorcycle Rentals (depending on whether you are upwind
Bikers’ Bay - Mesa Now AZ Toy Store Motorcycle Rentals or downwind) and this may cause you
Motodad leathers 1355 S COUNTRY CLUB 1313 S. Country Club Drive to shift closer to the truck…be pre-
11839 north 19th Ave 480-421-1404 Mesa, AZ 85210 pared for that! Fall now, and you’re
Phoenix, AZ 85029 480 649-3299 History.
602-290-5271 Bikers’ Bay - Tucson
4729 E 22nd Street Veterans Services And when you finish your pass and
Second Skin 520-745-4529 come out the other end, be ready
201 W Cottonwood Ln Operation Freedom Bird to get hit with the crosswind again.
Casa Grande, AZ 85222 Bikers Dream Tune & Lube Wham! Big vehicles create their own
(520) 876-9365 884 W Gila Bend HWY Vets Helping Vets
PO Box 33663 turbulence, a big wake of air being
Casa Grande, AZ 85222 pushed out in front of the vehicle, ac-
Motorcycle Manufacturers Phone 520 836-9977 Phoenix AZ 85067-3663
celerated air flowing along the sides.
Email: john@ operationfreedombird. The same stuff that creates lift on an
Saxon Motorcycle Co Chester’s Harley-Davidson com airplane wing; hundreds of thousands
555 W Main Ave 922 South Country Club Drive of foot-pounds of force, punching a big
Casa Grande AZ 85222 Mesa AZ 85210 List your Business here find out how fat hole in the air, creating a vacuum
480-894-0404 520-836-9402 that rushes to fill itself in with buffeting,
Bars & Grills 4/2008
Logan’s Valley Motorcycles swirling air. And that’s all in addition to
1800’s Saloon 1440 W Main St any crosswind.
13608 N Cave Creek Rd, Mesa, AZ 85201
Phoenix, 85022 Phone: 480 962-1700 Passing a big truck, bus or van in
(602) 482-8420 either direction creates about the
The Huddle Iron Horse Corral same conditions as trying to drive your
392 N. Broad 11653 N Cave Creek RD little outboard fishing boat close to
Globe, AZ. 85501
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CLASSIFIEDS a tugboat and barge out in the har-
bor. Beware, be aware, and be ready
for any changes. Dust storms in the
Main Street Tavern Insane Custom Cycles farmland and sandstorms in the desert
221 S Main St 5221 West Montebello, Suite B-1 Place your ad here, can create zero visibility in no time flat.
Coolidge, AZ 85228 Glendale, Arizona 85301 only $20, If you decide to get off the road and sit
(520) 723-7817 Phone: 623.979.5874 it out, get far off the road and become
Until it sells up to 20 words. invisible to avoid becoming a target for
Silver Bullet Bar H-D Performance Specialists the next confused, half blinded driver
1401 N Pinal Ave 4906 Olympic Drive Picture with the ad coming down the road.
Casa Grande, AZ, 85222 Kingman, Arizona 86401 only $10 more.
520-836-1363 When the wind is not really radical we
Superstition Harley-Davidson still need to keep an open eye for sud-
Sugar Daddy’s 2910 W. Apache Trail Advertisers den changes in the wind. Mountains
3102 N Scottsdale Rd Apache Junction, AZ 85220 and canyons or rolling hills…Coming
Scottsdale, AZ 85251 480-346-0600 Place your Help Wanted Ads up on bridges and overpasses or out
Phone: 480-970-6556 of tunnels…. we’ll get some advance
Ramjet Racing Performance Cycles here, FREE, Up to 40 words. warning by watching for blowing dust
Tumbleweed 13207 North Cave Creek Road or trees or grasses being bent over.
3815 W Frontier St Phoenix, Arizona 85022 Watch the vehicles running in front of
Eloy, Arizona 85231 Phone: Retail Store/Parts 602-788-0364 you, especially campers or vans or
(520) 466-9972 www.ramjetracing.com other bikes, making sudden little shifts
Thunder Roads Magazine Thunder Roads Magazine
HEARTS TO HEROES 12 April 2008
It was Hearts to Heroes run again, the 4th one presented
by Barry from Cyclerides.com. It is for support of our troops
through ‘Operation Home Front’ and ‘Packages from
Home’. As usual Barry did an outstanding job.
It started at Christ’s Church of the Valley, Glendale, same
as last year. I rode with the local “Foothills HOG Chapter”.
We had about 30 bikes and a good ride.
Barry had a grand opening again by riding his bike in the
church; this time he went up and down the aisles! Barry had
several soldiers on stage that were stationed in Iraq last
year and also on the satellite TV talking to us. It was great
to have them back; one soldier had been over there several
times and actually volunteered to go back! What a Hero!
Barry also recognized Veterans of past wars and Veterans
that supported our country but were not in during a war. Be-
ing a Vet, I had tears in my eyes several times.
After the presentation, we all rode to Westgate, police
escorted, with bikes as far as you could see in front and
behind you. Sheriff Joe did an outstanding job blocking
the streets and making this a safe run. There were a lot of
people watching from the roadside as we passed and we
had a great time at Westgate.
I was told this was the last ‘Heart’s to Heroes’ run. I look
forward to it every year, Barry does a great job. I will see
what we can do next year to show our support for the
troops.
Wild Bill and Mitzi Salava
Thunder Roads Magazine Thunder Roads Magazine 5
Helmet Laws Don’t Harley Shops Don’t Sell Just
Prevent Accidents Transportation Anymore
By Tom Corr
By Jeff Hennie
Years ago a trip to the Harley shop only meant one of two things,
Government officials will tell you that motorcyclists make
either you were going to buy a bike or to pick up some parts.
up 2% of the vehicles on the road and 10% of the fatali-
ties, and they would be correct. That sounds like a major
problem. But what they don’t tell you paints a very different Nowadays, people go just to hang out as the shops are quickly
scenario. becoming social destination points, and these destination points
are sprawling showpieces.
Motorcycle registrations have more than doubled since
1997, and new motorcycle sales have quadrupled since When you enter today’s Harley shop it’s like taking a trip to an
then. Surely, when the population is increased one must entertainment center.
expect the crash numbers to climb as well. Simple statistics.
Some of these shops feature every variety of motorcycle imagin-
The last time motorcycle deaths were as high as they are able, not just Harley’s and Buell’s anymore. They carry accessories
now was in 1986, when motorcycle registrations were and branded products, ranging from leather jackets and belts to
slightly more than 5 million. In 2006, almost 6.5 million mo-
T-shirts, coffee mugs, ball caps, toys and pet accessories. Besides
torcycles were registered in this country. That’s an addition-
the obvious shopping for clothes and bikes, at most shops you
al 1.5 million motorcycles and the same number of fatalities.
Maybe the motorcycle fatality rate isn’t as out of control as can meet with friends or make new ones. You can play pool, eat
some would like you to believe. popcorn and cookies, drink coffee and soda, and watch videos.
When motorcycle safety is addressed, it almost always re- Weekends are filled with lots of free activities at your local Harley
volves around one controversial issue: helmet laws. All but shops. Take for example our advertiser, Chester’s H-D in Mesa.
three states have a version of a helmet law on the books. They have things going on all the time, so you need to check their
Twenty-seven states allow riders to exercise choice when web site, www.chestershd.com regularly.
donning personal protective equipment, and the remaining
20 require all riders to wear a helmet of some sort. If helmet One such event Chester’s has done is the Ladies Only Garage
laws worked, there would be a sharp contrast concerning Party. This event, just as the name implies, is for women only
crash data between states that require universal helmet use
(sorry guys). It is geared to women who think they may want to ride
and those that don’t. That isn’t the case.
but are just not sure yet.
According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administra-
tion August 2007 publication, two of the three states that This Ladies Only party has demonstrations and discussions by lady
had the largest increase in fatalities from 2005 to 2006 have riders on things like which bike is right for you (fitting your motor-
universal helmet laws (Alabama and California). Of the cycle). There are discussions on motorcycle safety and they show
three states with the largest decrease in motorcycle fatali- you examples of the proper riding gear to be worn in order to keep
ties over that period, two (Illinois and New Hampshire) have you safe while looking good too. Looks are important to the ladies!
no helmet requirement, and the third (Ohio) allows experi-
enced riders to ride without a helmet. There are refreshments served and Chester’s gives a tour of the
shop and service area, photo opportunities sitting on a brand new
The bottom line is that helmet laws don’t prevent accidents. Harley, and they also have raffles with the grand prize being a
The best-case scenario is to avoid the crash in the first
Rider’s Edge New Rider Course ($349 value).
place. How? Through proper, affordable rider education and
widespread motorist awareness campaigns to educate the
general motoring public to be aware of motorcycles. Establishments such as Chester’s go all out on their events for
their customers, and why shouldn’t they? They appreciate you and
Motorcycle safety requires a comprehensive approach, or your business! When you buy a bike from them you aren’t just buy-
we risk losing even more lives. Simply relying on a helmet ing a bike you are buying a lifestyle and all the benefits of joining
law to reduce the number of fatalities has proved to fail time the Harley owner family.
and time again.
You can find your local Harley shop on the dealer locator link at
Jeff Hennie is vice president of government affairs for the www.harley-davidson.com.
Motorcycle Riders Foundation.
Thunder Roads Magazine Thunder Roads Magazine
Training Wheels: An Introduction Luncheon On The Lawn along with Chris Mc Connell, Kelly Morley and some friends
out did themselves. The food was EXCELLENT. I heard
to Riding a Motorcycle I CANNOT say enough about this years Luncheon on the
nothing but compliments. Thanks to the Sunchasers for
setting up a club table as they’ve been doing. A big thanks
What this course is about: Lawn. You all made your lobbyists very proud, to say the to the PGR for helping us make a lasting impression, and
least. As planned, this was the biggest and best ever. the many ABATE and MMA members, some of whom also
It is a very, very, preliminary training course. The curriculum is chosen to introduce a prospective rider to the very basics of There were upwards of 130 bikes on 17th Avenue, for the represented the Legion Riders and Shriners, and to the
motorcycle operation without their having to commit to an entire 24-hour New Rider Course. This course will be a sort of legislators viewing pleasure. Rep Ray Barnes had me many clubs represented as well.
“toe in the water” taste of motorcycle operation. The new course is assembled from proven MSF curriculum components. walk with him to look at each and every one. Needless
This course is a low pressure, low intensity, and hands -on motorcycling experience. to say, we impressed the hell out of them. I CANNOT say An extra, extra thanks for those of you who traveled to get
enough about your level of commitment in calling or writing there. NOW FOR THE GOOD NEWS AND EVEN BETTER
Who this course is for: your legislators to personally invite them, knowing who NEWS!! Thanks to ABATE, MMA and the ACMC for offering
your legislators were or taking the time to find out at the $1,000 each to put this on. THE GOOD NEWS IS that it
The course is specifically for prospective motorcyclists who are not sure if they really do want to ride. For people who
are not sure if they are ready for the New Rider Course or may have attempted a beginner’s course before and were sign-in table, etc. looks as thought it will only cost us about $800 each. THE
not successful. This is for those who are not ready to make a substantial commitment to riding until they have more EVEN BETTER NEWS is that the ACMC usually puts
knowledge. I heard many of you walk right up to everyone of them, out $800 towards the Lunches and then another 1/3 or
as they signed in, and thank them for their support in $1,000 toward the Freedom Rally. They actually saved
What this course is like: passing our emissions bill on Wednesday, and asking for $1,000 this year, AND we all got a MUCH BIGGER BANG
the support of that same bill when it reached the senate. I FOR OUR BUCK.
The course is four hours long and consists of the first five MSF exercises. Class size will be limited to four students. The heard many of you explaining the ramifications of the Right
riding exercises will be supplemented with discussions on rider responsibility, protective riding gear, motorcycle controls and Of Way violators and how we needed to not only increase
operation, and basic skill information. There is no formal classroom time; the entire course takes place at the riding site. The Lobbyists are seriously thinking of eliminating the
penalties, but that we needed to enforce the laws we have Freedom Rally and putting all of our efforts and monies into
to the fullest extent. an even bigger and better Luncheon for the Legislators in
The four-hour course time provides each of the riding exercises greatly extended running time. This allows students to
stop and observe, ask questions, and even not start an exercise until they have seen the others in class developing the 2009. We definitely got their attention!!! THANKS AGAIN
new skills. The five exercises will address: I heard nothing but GOOD things from the legislators TO ALL, THAT HELPED MAKE THIS HAPPEN - YOU
• Motorcycle Familiarization: control location and operation, mounting and dismounting themselves. Rep Barnes couldn’t get over the number of KNOW WHO YOU ARE!!!
• Friction zone: basic clutch operation. Start moving without stalling. Basic stopping. riders and bikes that were there compared to prior years.
• Starting and Stopping. Repeated practice at starts and stops. Improved control of the clutch and cycle movement, Senator Blendu commented on how he remembered Bobbi Hartmann
developing skill with combined braking when we first started the luncheon and how few were in ABATE Designated Lobbyist
• Shifting: Just as it sounds, up and down, first and second gears only. Preliminary practice with sharp turns, more attendance. He said, “And LOOK AT YOU NOW!!! “. Rep
stopping practice. Jerry Weiers, our rider Rep, good friend and sponsor of our
• Riding. An opportunity for some extended riding time, steering practice with easy turns and steering practice. emissions bill was thrilled. It was his suggestion to invite
the Patriot Guard. Having honored them on the House
What you will need: floor during last year’s session, he knew what a big impact
they had on the state legislators.
Basic riding gear is required: Helmets and eye protection are supplied. You will need your own; boots, gloves, sturdy
pants, and sturdy jacket.
The class fee is $75. $50 of the fee may be credited toward a subsequent New Rider Course They were again individually recognized today, for what
they do. Although we only had about 30 legislators able to
attend, we know the rest were wishing they could. It’s hard
to tell what is going on at any particular time at the capitol.
The day before the luncheon, our bill was to be voted on at
the 1pm floor session. Well the lobbyists were down there
at 1pm, only to have to wait on a 4-hour caucus to end so
that they could see our bill through around 5:30pm or so.
You never know!!
I CANNOT say enough about the Luncheon Committee
that worked their Asses off to make this happen. Carole
O’Reilly, Margie Ferrucci, Cilla, SkyPilot, Steve Musgrave,
CJ and Betty, Ray Huston and myself. There was
everything from Event forms, to Insurance to Street
Closure/Barricades to Invites, to Capitol Calendars, to Tent/
table rentals, to Food Catering, to Sign-In Tags, to Emails,
to Press Releases, to GOHS Stock Items, Organizational
Tables etc. Please thank all of them personally whenever
you get the chance. We made a good team.
An extra thanks to ALMA, They spent the entire time
directing traffic and making sure everyone got safely
parked. Thunder Roads Magazine, Owner Tom Corr,
Thunder Roads Magazine Thunder Roads Magazine
In Keeping With Motorcycle Safety broken femur, six broken broke ribs, and
And Awareness Month We Are a broken and mutilated middle finger on Why Don’t You Look
Bringing You Some True Stories her left hand.
As Told By Survivors Of Motor- I ride every day and into the night. I choose two
cycle Accidents. Curtis however was not so fortunate; He
landed approx.110 feet from the crash wheels and leather in spite of your fright.
site on his head suffering traumatic brain My friends do the same as their loved ones
Jeff McDougle from Ohio used to ride ride along. And in our hearts we carry a special
an HD Electra Glide Classic but has not and spinal injuries. Crystal was able to
revive him at the scene of the crash. song.
ridden in four years now; he had been My song may differ from that of my friend. His
riding for thirty plus years. Although Curtis has not totally recov-
ered he is alive, After 11 months he still song is different, too and it has no end.
A brief description of what happened is suffers with memory loss, forgets where Our questions to you are not something new.
on 5-12-07, Jeff was on his first ride to he is sometimes, and suffers from high Why traffic laws are meant for us, but not you.
work of the season, and was hit broad- seizure disorders. You don’t want to stop when lights go to red? Is
side in an intersection. The woman that cell phone or ipod plugged into your head?
driving did not see him coming, she left a A Lawsuit is still pending investigations You don’t want to yield after filling your tank; do
stop sign and hit him, and Jeff said it was on the drunk driver, Crystal said; I never you think the bike nearing you is some kind of
knew one ride would change my life this
over before he could blink. prank?
much. And, the lives of my 3 beautiful
daughters, who don’t understand what Why don’t you look when you make a left turn?
The damage done was, Jeff had five What’s wrong with you? Will you ever learn?
fractures in his neck, shoulder, and ankle has happened we are closer now as a Oh, I think now, maybe I see. It’s only a biker or
he also sustained numerous cuts to his family than ever before.
maybe two or three.
head. “Who do they think they are?“ you may say.
I now know what it means to “Live Like
“Why should I wait? They’re in my way.”
He went through six months of rehabilita- You Were Dying” As for Curtis, I will see
tion, worked for two months, and is now him through this till the very end. Crystals “They probably don’t bleed or hurt when they
currently off again having trouble with final note, one ride can change your life, crash.” “Maybe a scrape or possibly road rash.”
both feet. Five weeks after surgery to please be aware of night time dangers, Who knew we were riding on a benefit run, to
repair his left foot Staph infections set in drunk drivers are always out there, be help a dear friend before the day was done?
and almost cost that foot. alert, arrive unhurt. We do it quite often. Raise money for others.
Like Bikers for Babies and their fathers and
His right foot is up for work next, Jeff still The last incident involves a person from mothers.
has numbness in his fingers and suffers Arizona, he goes by the name of Bucka-
roo and He is a member of the Sober The donations we make come from our pockets
from lots of aches that come and go. and purses. We help pay for hospital stays and
Jeff said: I need to get back to the life I Riders MC Casa Grande Crew. Bucka-
roo was involved in an accident while re- doctors and nurses.
had, but I thank God for the chance to You can’t buy a coat for your child for the
have what I’ve got. My family and a few turning from a trip he had taken to Utah,
an impatient driver hit him head-on. winter? Look around for the bikers with warm
miracles keep me on track. coats as we enter.
Unsure if he’ll ride again Jeff added A brief description of what happened, a We don’t ask for much from you who don’t ride.
that it happens so fast, and it changes so driver was tired of following a long line of Why don’t you look at our faces? Don’t look to
much. Be aware of all you see, and see cars on a two-lane highway. The motor- the side.
more than you’re aware of. Be safe, be ist moved into the oncoming traffic lane Do you look at the families left behind, when
aware, and arrive alive. to pass the line of cars, while rounding you don’t look before the yield sign?
a curve in a no passing zone the vehicle Do you know there are kids at home both young
The next story is that of Crystal and slammed head-on into his motorcycle. and old, who will need someone to love and
Curtis Shelton from Athens’ Tennessee, comfort and hold?
Crystal was a passenger and it was her Buckaroo lost his left arm and leg as a
result of the crash and endured sev- Who is there to hug those babies? Will it be
first time on a bike, this is a brief account you or me or the DHS ladies?
of what transpired that day eral surgeries before returning home to
Arizona. Why don’t you look when the signals change?
Do you think bikers feel no pain?
While riding one early morning in July See who we are. No “Thanks” is required.
2007, heading to the mountains on the At the beginning of this writing you will
back of her husband’s newly purchased have noticed I called them accidents, When we come to your aide when you’re just
motorcycle. On a dark straight stretch that is not really true none of were really too tired.
of road three miles from her home, an accidents. Every single one of them You see, we have jobs, Maybe you’ve seen us
intoxicated man decided he no longer could have been avoided, in all reality around. When your drain is stopped up or your
wanted to wait on the approaching cycle. they were the fault of the other driver; tree has blown down.
they were Right of Way Violations. When your electricity was out or fire ran through
Crystal said, suddenly he pulled out from your house. We came in to help you and left as
One thing you may have or may not
a side road. I thought” Dear God No”.
have noticed was, in one incident both quiet as a mouse.
Within seconds the vehicles collided When someone stole your tools and you didn’t
as my husband and I were slamming riders were wearing helmets that flew
off upon impact. That says some thing know what to do maybe some of us showed up
into the front driver’s side of his car at and tried to help you.
50mph. for the helmet issue now doesn’t it. The
point being is we do not need safer We need to wear leather and helmets because
crashing we need for all automobile Drivers of cars sometimes don’t obey the laws.
Curtis and Crystal went airborne, even
drivers to pay attention, think and to look Why don’t you look? Look into our faces. You
though both of them were wearing hel-
mets; the helmets were thrown off upon out for motorcycles and to stop running may see a friend on a bike, of all places.
the impact with the car. Crystal received in to us.
three broken bones in her ankle; a Jennifer S. Thomas, July 17, 2007
Tom Corr
Thunder Roads Magazine 0 Thunder Roads Magazine
Thunder Roads Magazine