1. automotive and vehicles
2. motorcycles

We’re Moving Out 2014 Models!
With these prices, it’s no surprise the 2014 models are
selling fast. However, we need more room for the 2015s.
Stop by our dealership today to get your best deal on a
2014 Indian or Victory motorcycle. Don’t wait! Once these
motorcycles are sold, the prices are gone, too.
2014 Indian Vintage
Demo, Red, 2,005 miles,
5 year warranty,
2014 Indian Vintage - New,
Blue/Cream, 11 miles,
5 year warranty,
Special price: $1,500 off MSRP
Special price:
$2,500 off MSRP
2014 Indian Classic
2014 Indian Chieftain - New,
Red, 11 miles,
5 year warranty,
Special price: $1,500 off MSRP
New, Blue, 11 miles,
5 year warranty,
Special price:
$1,500 off MSRP
2014 Indian Chieftain - New,
Red, 11 miles,
5 year warranty,
Special price: $1,500 off MSRP
2014 Victory Cross Country 2014 Victory Vegas 8 Ball - New, 2014 Victory Vision - Demo,
Nuclear
Sunset,
432
miles,
Demo, Gold, 313 miles,
Black, 11 miles,
2 year warranty,
2 year warranty,
2 year warranty,
Special
price:
$2,500
off
MSRP
Special
price: $2,500 off MSRP
Special price: $1,000 off MSRP
1765 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI
One mile north of Square Lake Rd. on the east side of Telegraph Rd.
248.920.2000 • www.ridemotorcity.com
on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/MotorCityMotorcycles
BMW MOTORCYCLESOF GRAND RAPIDS
5995 S Division
Grand Rapids, MI 49548-5730
616-530-6900
www.bmwmcgr.com
TM
Midwest Motorcyclist
3
Columns
5
6
7
10
14
17
cc media publications
This Month’s Contributors:
Contributing Editors
Patrick Armitage, Nicole Espinosa
Emily Flinkstrom, Franz Hoffer,
Mike Mekinda, Jay Wilgus
plus
Dondi Vesprini, Jason Waechter
Publisher/Managing Editor
Ray Peabody
[email protected]
[email protected]
Advertising Sales/ Web Master / Distribution
20
21
IN THIS ISSUE…..
To Our Readers
Safer Riding: Time to Stop Riding by Patrick Armitage
Motorcycling and Law: Home & Vehicle Modifications by Dondi Vesprini
Random Ramblings of a Rare Bird: Old School, New Tech, &
a Strip Off Season by Mike Mekinda
Live It Right Dream Ride: Even Birds Have Nests by Jay Wilgus
Open Terrain - Exploring the World and Soul by Motorcycle:
The Touratech Empire by Nicole Espinosa
Big Changes in the 2015 Michigan Motorcycle Safety Program
by Jason Waechter
The Preacher Talks About... Motorcycling in Michigan Book Review
by Franz Hoffer
Features, News & Reviews
8
9
13
15
16
18
22
Ride to End Polio Now: From Prudhoe Bay to the Florida Keys
by Ray Peabody
Book Review: Head Check, What It Feels Like to Ride Motorcycles by Jack Lewis
Review by Ray Peabody
Hi Viz Riders Launch “BE SEEN” Campaign
New Product: Giant Loop Tracker Packer for SPOT
Spartan Cycle Now Selling Indian & Victory Motorcycles
Motorcycle Expeditionary Forces Set Sights on Wisconsin
New FXRG Jacket & Vented Sportswear From Harley-Davidson
Resources
5
18
19
Advertiser Index
Event Schedule
Michigan Harley-Davidson Dealer Event Schedule
Cover photo: The rear view of Wayne Koppa’s BMW G 650 GS somewhere along the route of his
coast-to-coast trip - the long way - to benefit the end of polio campaign. Photo by Wayne Koppa.
Ray Peabody
[email protected]
[email protected]
Cover Design
Julie Kirkendoll
Dave Bowman Inc.
Tech-Care Suspension Small Displacement Motor Sports
www.tech-care.com - [email protected] (248) 666-4651 6971 Highland Rd. Waterford, MI 48327
Your complete motor sports service center
How to contact us:
709 Fall Street
Spring Lake, Michigan 49456
(810) 923-8738
www.midwestmotorcyclist.com
Copyright 1998-2015 cc media. All rights reserved. No part of this
publication may be reproduced, photocopied, or electronically
transmitted without the expressed written permission of the publisher.
Advertisers, their agents, contributors of event information, freelance contributors and/or editorial contributors will defend, indemnify
and hold cc media and RTP Enterprises, Inc. harmless in any claims
of libel, copyright or trademark infringement, plagiarism, violation of
local, national, or international privacy laws and any other claim or
suit that may arise subsequent to publication of said advertisement,
stories, event information, and/or editorial. Submission of material for
consideration for publication in Michigan Motorcyclist/Midwest
Motorcyclist, American CycleRider either solicited or unsolicited,
constitutes agreement to these terms. Except for the
Publisher and Managing Editor, all writers are free-lance contributors.
Any and all opinions expressed are those of the authors, and don’t
necessarily reflect those of the publisher.
4
We Do It All from Old to New
Specializes in:
Motocross-Cross Country– Enduro-Street--Custom-Touring-Sport Bikes-Restorations-Fabrications
Powder Coatings-Ceramic Custom Paint-Custom Parts-Stock Parts-O.E.M. Parts
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time for a nice ride. Call today.
Small Displacement Motorsports
6971 Highland Road (M-59), Waterford, MI
(248) 666-4651 • www.tech-care.com
www.midwestmotorcyclist.com
April 2015
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The motorcycle world
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ABATE of Indiana .....................................6
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12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 apparently Larry Klein, owner of GT
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A.B.C. Harley-Davidson ...............21, 22, 23 Motors, died recently while
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Battle Creek Harley-Davidson ......21, 22, 23 vacationing in the British Virgin Isles.
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BMW Motorcycles of Detroit................13, 16 Not having taken a vacation in many
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BMW of Grand Rapids..........3, 5, 6, 18 years, Larry accepted an invitation
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BMW, SE Michigan..... .........8, 9, 11, 14 from friends to sail around the
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Brighton Harley-Davidson .......21, 22, 23 Caribbean. He was swimming when
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Bubba’s Tri City Cycles.........................22
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C & S Harley-Davidson ...........21, 22, 23 issue.
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Many knew Larry as a Moto
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Capitol Harley-Davidson ..........21, 22, 23
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Guzzi dealer and book seller based in
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Classic
MotorSports........,.........21,
22,
23
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12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Lansing, Michigan. He could
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Cycle Conservation Club ..........................7
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frequently be found selling books at
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Dave Bowman MS...........................4, 16, 18
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12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 swap meets and vintage motorcycle
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Diamond
Gusset
Jeans
...........................14
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Giant Loop........................................12
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Gildner’s Harley-Davidson ........21, 22, 23 through piles of papers and books.
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Grand Rapids H-D................. ...21, 22, 23 Off to the right, a variety of
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Great Lakes Dual Sporters ...................7
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12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 motorcycles, mostly Italian including
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Great Lakes Harley-Davidson........21, 22, 23 Moto Guzzi, Moto Morini and
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Hamilton’s Harley-Davidson ....15, 21, 22, 23
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12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012 Ducatis, were lined up along the wall,
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Harley-Davidson dealers ..............21, 22, 23 covered in dust. The room reflected
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Hot Rod Harley-Davidson .............21, 22, 23 an organized chaos but Larry seemed
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Jason Waechter, The Motorcycle Lawyer..24 to know where to locate an item when
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Jerry B’s Cycle Works .......................12 he needed it. Later, he opened the
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Kelley & Sons Trailers ............................5
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Motor City Harley-Davidson .........21, 22, 23 gradually filled with stuff like the
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Motor City Underwriters ......................12
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This was the paradox that
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Motorcity Motorcycles.................2, 9, 15
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was Larry. Unlike his work space, his
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Motorcycle
Solutions,
LLC......................12
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mind was sharp and uncluttered. He
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MC Sport Touring Association..........7, 13
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knew motorcycles and some of the
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Perry’s Harley-Davidson ..........21, 22, 23
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most important players in the
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Ray C’s Harley-Davidson..........21, 22, 23 industry. If you wanted to know what
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Retail
Warehouse
.........................14,
17,
18
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Rocky’s Outdoors......................................24 industry in Michigan, Larry knew the
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Sandy’s Harley-Davidson ...........21, 22, 23 details. He was an impressive source
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Shiawassee Harley-Davidson ....21, 22, 23 of information but he didn’t suffer
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Sport Bike Track Gear ............................ 10 fools. He could be abrupt.
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Sweet Trikes ...........................................12
I first met Larry at his shop
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Tecumseh Harley-Davidson .....21, 22, 23 when he was still selling Guzzis. He
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Town & Country H-D................21, 22, 23 was an occasional customer of ours.
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Zip’s 45th Parallel H-D..............21, 22, 23 He often shared stories and insights
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Advertiser
Index
BE SEEN
Wear Hi Viz Riding Gear
about people and businesses in the
industry. He introduced me to a
variety of people, many of whom
later became subjects of stories in this
publication. One of my first ever rides
on a Moto Guzzi came when Larry
offered to let me ride one of the new
(at the time) models – a V11 Café
Sport – for a review article.
I don’t know if Larry would
call us friends. Probably not. But we
had semi-regular conversations, the
The advertisers in this magazine
last few of which were impromptu
help us bring a quality publication
meetings in his book shop. He always
had interesting information to share.
to you. Please remember to buy
Those conversations often lasted an
their products and use
hour or more; probably more time
than either of us could spare but
their services.
worthwhile nonetheless. At least a
year had elapsed since we last talked
but that was typical. Some of the best
relationships turn out to be sporadic
Ce
meet ups where the people involved
le
pick up right where they left off.
ou brati
r2
ng
Despite the time gaps between
ye 3rd
conversations, I enjoyed those
ar!
conversations and hope Larry did as
well.
I’m quite certain that many
people have similar stories about their
FOR
relationship with Larry. I am equally
1- and 2-place RENT
certain that he will be sincerely
motorcycle
missed. Rest in peace, Larry.
We’re truly happy to bring
trailers for
you this issue. We have a nice variety
of stories from the tale of Wayne
sale or rent Rentals
Koppa’s Coast to Coast - The Hard
Way Ride for Polio Eradication that
starting
took him from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska
at $30 a Aluminum
to The Florida Keys in seven days to
day!
Pat Armitage’s announcement that he
1 & 2 place
will stop riding to Mike Mekinda’s off
season visit to a resort community to
trailers
the latest update from the Live It
Right Dream Ride team to two book
SPRING
FOR
reviews (Head Check by Jack Lewis and
CLEARANCE!
Motorcycling Across Michigan by
SALE
William Murphy) to news about
changes to the 2015 Michigan
[email protected]
Motorcycle Safety Program to Nicole
Espinosa’s profile of the Touratech
empire to our event schedule and
(734) 783-6464
more news. There’s a lot here and we
12620 N. Telegraph
hope you enjoy every bit.
Carleton, MI
Thanks for reading. Please
support our advertisers. See you on
Mon thru Fri 9 to 6 • Sat 9 to 3
the road or at an event,
PLEASE SUPPORT
OUR ADVERTISERS
TRAILER
SALES, RENTALS,
SERVICE & STORAGE
We sell a complete line of open & enclosed
motorcycle trailers at affordable prices.
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2014 BMW R1200R
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2009 BMW R1200RT,
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2007 BMW K1200R Sport,
2007 BMW F800ST,
2007 BMW F800S,
2006 BMW R1200RT,
2005 BMW R1200RT,
2005 BMW R1200RT,
2005 BMW R1200RT,
2005 BMW K1200LT,
2003 BMW R1200C,
2002 BMW K1200LT,
2001 BMW R1100RTP,
1992 BMW R100RT,
Racing red, 7,720 miles,
Silver/Black, 17,000 miles,
Silver, 38,565 miles,
Black, 72,585 miles,
Silver, 26,141 miles
Blue, 13,815 miles,
Yellow, 31,192 miles,
Graphite, 62,68 miles,
Red, 34,198 miles,
Red, 71,000 miles,
Grey, 55,655 milkes
Graphite, 44,000 miles,
Silver, 130,523 miles,
Silver, 70,002 miles,
Black/White, 116,805 miles,
Green, 50,029 miles,
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CALL
$4,750
BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids, 5995 South Division, Grand Rapids, MI
(616) 530-6900
www.bmwmcgr.com
TM
Midwest Motorcyclist
5
Safer Riding
Time to Stop Riding
By Patrick Armitage
I started riding motorcycles at 16 years old in
1972. In 1989, I trained to be an MSF (Motorcycle
Safety Foundation) instructor. I taught more than
2,000 people to ride over 20 years. I taught MSF
courses at Macomb and Oakland Community
Colleges, Schoolcraft College, the Palace of Auburn
Hills for Anderson’s Sales and Service (now Motor
City Powersports) and, finally, Rider’s Edge for
Motor City Harley-Davidson. Teaching people to
ride was rewarding and fun; it was a highlight of
my life. I have ridden, by my estimation, more than
200,000 miles without a serious crash and in 49
states on a motorcycle.
In 1998, I discovered this magazine and found
an appeal from the publisher, Ray Peabody, asking
for interesting motorcycling photographs. Ray
published a photo collage from my trip to
Americade that year and asked if I could write. I
told him my teachers would have said “no,” but I
would try. To my great surprise, I have been
writing for this magazine since not long after its
inception, doing Safer Riding, Tour Journals, Ask Dr
Cycholl, and many others. You may have recently
followed my three part-series ”The Bucket List
Tour.”
At some point, all of us will face a time when,
for various reasons, we should face the fact that it is
time to stop riding motorcycles. As you might have
guessed already, for me, that time is now. A few
years ago, I began noticing small coordination
problems with my left hand. At first, I tried to
rationalize that it was nothing; it would go away. I
knew, though, that I was fooling myself. I saw
several doctors and finally found a neurologist who
confirmed what I thought I already
knew. I have Parkinson’s Disease.
For those of you who do not
know, Parkinson’s is a treatable but
incurable progressive neurological
disorder effecting the brain. It causes
weakness and coordination problems
primarily on one side of the body. For
me, my left hand and foot do not have
the dexterity or strength I had. I can still
manipulate the clutch and shifter but
my overall control ability is noticeably
less than what it was. One day,
probably in the not too distant future, I
won’t be able to get my left foot to the
ground fast enough; the probable result
is predictable. My years of training and
practice had allowed me to achieve an
ability to handle a Goldwing very well.
Losing this capability and,
consequently, my confidence is a
difficult thing for me to accept. As I
write this, I am 58 years old. I had hoped to be able
to ride five, 10 or more years.
As hard as it is to do, the smart thing is to
admit that this is not going to get better; it is time
to quit riding motorcycles before something bad
happens. Friends have suggested a smaller bike, a
sidecar or a trike but I know this only delays the
inevitable. Motorcycling has been a big part of my
life for 42 years. As hard as it is to admit, I need to
sell my beloved Goldwing.
Somehow, I am mostly OK with it. It has
been a great ride. Through riding motorcycles, I
have had great times, been to many interesting
places, met lots of people, and taught many others
to enjoy riding. I introduced my Wife to longdistance motorcycle touring and, in this magazine, I
first became a published writer and photographer. I
have since been published in several national
magazines. I have been trained by superb police
motorcycle instructors to a previously undreamed
of level of riding skill. I competed in and won some
riding competitions. What a great ride! I may not be
able to continue riding but I will still remain active
as long as I can. Maybe I will take the proceeds from
the sale of the Goldwing and buy a pontoon boat or
a convertible sports car. Maybe both!
At this point, I have known I have had
Parkinson’s for about eight years. When I was first
diagnosed, I thought “I know how this story ends.”
I watched my Dad spiral down after he was
diagnosed with this condition. But my own
progression has been minimal and, because of this,
my neurologist thinks that there is reason to
believe that this may be as bad as it gets. I will
remain hopeful. In any case, I have little to
complain about. Many of my friends, family
members, and acquaintances have much worse
problems than me.
I hope that, when you face a similar situation,
my openly discussing my
situation will, in some way,
make it easier for you to face
your situation, too.
I will continue to
contribute to this magazine as
long as I have something to
say and the magazine agrees it
2015
still has value.
SPRING TRACK
DAY @ Grattan
Monday, June 1,
The day costs $170,
which includes
track time, class
room instruction
and lunch. All
makes and models
of bikes are welcome to attend our
track events! Call
our store to reserve
your space today.
Ride safe and long,
Pat Armitage
5995 South Division
Grand Rapids, MI
(616) 530-6900
www.bmwmcgr.com
6
www.midwestmotorcyclist.com
Patrick Armitage is a veteran
touring rider, riding motorcycles
since 1972. He had been certified
to be a Motorcycle Safety
Foundation Instructor in 1989,
and a certified Harley Davidson
“Rider’s Edge” Instructor from
2000 to 2009. He estimates that he
has taught more than 2000 people
to ride or, to ride better. As of
2009 he no longer teaches MSF or
Rider’s Edge. His current ride,
now for sale, is a 2003 GL1800A
Honda Goldwing. Comments:
[email protected]
April 2015
Motorcycling & Law
Home & Vehicle
Modifications
Sport Touring is Our Middle Name!
We Ride!
by Dondi Vesprini
As part of my representation and
advocacy of injured motorcyclists, I often
have the pleasure to travel across our great
State to speak and give presentations to
various motorcycle organizations, motorcycle
clubs, and motorcycle rights groups
regarding a wide range of topics including a
motorcyclists legal rights if they are involved
in an accident. As I give these presentations,
it is always astonishing to me (although not
always surprising) how many injured
motorcyclists were not receiving all the No
Fault benefits they may otherwise be entitled
to, because the insurance company failed to
advise them of the total package of benefits
available.
I am finding that one of the most
common medical-related benefits that
catastrophically-injured motorcyclists are not
aware that they may claim are home or
vehicle modifications.
Michigan No Fault law allows a
motorcyclist who is injured in an accident
involving a motor vehicle to recover
“[a]llowable expenses consisting of all
reasonable charges incurred for reasonably
necessary products, services and accommodations for an injured person’s care,
recovery, or rehabilitation.” These types of
benefits are sometimes more commonly
referred to as “medical benefits.” While this
category includes the obvious benefits such
as medical bills and prescription expenses, it
also includes expenses related to modifications to an injured motorcyclist’s home or
vehicle that are reasonably necessary for the
rider’s care, recovery or rehabilitation from
injuries sustained in the accident.
Some common modifications to a
home may include providing a wheelchair
ramp, modifying doorways to accommodate
a wheelchair, and reworking bathrooms and
kitchens to make the fixtures more accessible
to meet an injured person’s needs. Some
common vehicle modifications are installing
a ramp so a wheelchair may access the
vehicle and modifying the steering or driving
mechanisms on the vehicle so the person may
operate the vehicle in light of his or her injuries.
In years past, injured motorcyclists were
claiming and receiving new homes or new vehicles
which came with modifications to accommodate
their injury. A couple years ago, our Supreme
Court clarified that the insurer is only responsible
for the costs of the modifications, as opposed to
the entire cost of a new home or vehicle. For
instance, in the context of a vehicle modification,
the insurer is only responsible for the cost of the
wheelchair ramp needed to access the vehicle, as
opposed to purchasing a brand new vehicle that
includes a wheelchair ramp. The thought is that if
the person was never injured he/she still would
have used a vehicle to travel. It is only the
necessary modification to said vehicle after the
accident then that is necessary for the person’s
care, recovery, or rehabilitation due to the
accident.
Nonetheless, I am finding that many
motorcyclists who are injured such that they need
modifications to their home, vehicle or motorcycle
are left unaware by the insurance company that
they are entitled to claim the cost of such
modifications as a No Fault expense. Given the
costs that such modifications can entail, it is a
valuable benefit to be mindful of.
As always, if anyone has any questions
or if I can be of legal assistance to you or anyone
you know who has been injured in a motorcycle
accident, please don’t hesitate to contact me as I
deal with these types of issues and motorcyclist
rights issues on a daily basis on behalf of
motorcyclists statewide.
Further, if you would like to have me
come out to your motorcycle organization or club
to speak or give a presentation on the legal rights
of an injured motorcyclist or on any specific topic
that your organization or club may be curious
about, please don’t hesitate to give me a call at
(248-569-4646) or shoot me an e-mail at
[email protected]. I give presentations
State-wide and there is never a charge associated
with having me out. I enjoy having the opportunity to come out and meet motorcycle enthusiasts
from all parts of our State!
...All Makes of Bikes
...All Over the Country
...On Back Roads
...On Racetracks
...At Novice-Advanced Levels
...In Our Sleep!
Our members come from all across the Midwest (and beyond)
and we ride many makes of street bikes - including:
• Aprilia
• BMW
• Buell
• Ducati
• Harley-Davidson
• Honda
• Kawasaki
• Suzuki
• Triumph
• Yamaha
....and brands in between
We travel to great riding destinations close by and far away. We learn to be
better riders. We share camaraderie and a common passion: The Passion To Ride!
For information about membership, meetings, events or rides,
contact the MSTA group in your state:
In Indiana, contact:
Donald “Moose” Parish
[email protected]
In Kentucky, contact:
Gary Dehner
[email protected]
In Michigan, contact:
Gregg Mitchell
[email protected]
In Ohio, contact:
Doug McPeak
[email protected]
• MAINTAINED TRAILS
In Wisconsin, contact:
Alan Tesch
[email protected]
N O N - C O M P E T I T I O N
• ORGANIZED EVENTS
• FAMILY FUN
• ALL LEGAL
Let’s Go
Trail Riding!
No place to ride? Michigan is home to the largest organized network of
off-road trails in the world - more than 3500 miles of marked, maintained
ORV trails for the entire family to enjoy! Since 1968, The Cycle Conservation
Club of Michigan has led the charge to assure continued access to public
lands for motorized recreation by working closely with state and federal
government. Membership in the CCC offers organized trail rides, a map CD of
the entire trail system, a subscription to the Great Lakes TrailRider Magazine
and a host of other member benefits! Call us today at 517-781-4805.
The Cycle Conservation Club of Michigan
PO Box 486 t$PMEXBUFS.*tXXXDZDMFDPOTFSWBUJPODMVCPSH
TM
Midwest Motorcyclist
7
Ride to End Polio Now: From Prudhoe Bay to the Florida Keys
by Ray Peabody
Some of the worst ideas happen in bars. A
person has a few drinks, maybe gets a little loud
and then makes commitments he or she later
regrets. However, not all commitments made in a
bar are bad ones.
Several years ago, Wayne Koppa was at
Spike’s Keg O’ Nails, a local Grayling pub, with
some friends when he made the claim that he could
ride from Grayling to Alaska and back in seven
days. A guy at the pub told him that if Koppa could
accomplish that goal, the guy would buy him a fish
dinner - the two-piece dinner, not the three piece.
What started as a somewhat wild bar claim became
a plan undertaken a couple years later. Before
Koppa left, he and the President of the local Rotary
Club agreed to turn the trip into a benefit for
PolioPlus, the campaign to eradicate polio.
While polio has been eliminated in the U.S.
and most other countries since the second half of the
last century, it is still a scourge in Nigeria,
Afghanistan and Pakistan. Polio is a highly
contagious viral infection that can cause paralysis,
respiratory problems and even death. In the first
half of the 20th century, many Americans were
afflicted with polio including Franklin D.
Roosevelt, our 32nd President. In 1988, more than
1,000 people a day came down with polio
worldwide. That number was down to 254 new
cases, mostly children in poverty-stricken countries,
in 2013. Progress is being made but, considering the
fact that an effective vaccine is available, it’s not fast
enough.
Koppa succeeded in in making the round
trip in seven days. The Rotary raised $3,250 for
PolioPlus for his efforts. (No word on whether the
bar patron paid up on the two-piece fish dinner.)
Considering the success of that first adventure, the
Rotary leadership asked Koppa whether he had any
other similar trips in mind and, if so, would he
consider doing it as a fundraiser. Koppa accepted
the challenge and began plotting his route.
He was looking for something dramatic,
something that would get attention and generate
significant donations for the cause. He ultimately
decided on a coast-to-coast trip from Prudhoe Bay,
Alaska to Key West in the Florida Keys. The plan
would require that Koppa spend 12 to 15 hours a
day in the saddle to complete the 5,200 mile trip in
seven days. That timeframe and mileage didn’t
include the ride from Grayling to Prudhoe Bay nor
the return trip from Key West back to Grayling.
Koppa named the trip “Coast to Coast - The Hard
Way Ride for Polio Eradication.”
Readers might think that the best
motorcycle for such a trip would be a multicylinder touring motorcycle capable of high-speed
touring with sufficient luggage capacity for every
conceivable possibility. Readers would probably be
right. But that’s not what Koppa was thinking.
Instead, he used his 2013 BMW G 650 GS for the trip.
For those not familiar with this GS, it’s powered by
a 652 cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine. It’s
considered a lightweight (452 pounds wet)
adventure bike with a reported top speed of 110 to
115 mph. He added a small windscreen, handguards
and a solo saddle with a gel insert for added
comfort. Koppa said he didn’t carry much gear; only
a few clothes, some tools and a credit card. He
would be traveling fast with few breaks.
His route would follow mostly two-lane
paved highways but early in the trip he would have
to ride plenty of dirt and sand in Alaska, including
the Haul Road. The Haul Road is dirt - slippery
mud when wet - that is coated with calcium
chloride to keep it smooth and reduce the dust.
Koppa departed Deadhorse, Alaska on the
Prudhoe Bay on June 15, 2014. The Haul Road was a
muddy mess. He encountered some rain most days.
Once he reached the paved roads, he could cruise
easily at 80 miles per hour. He replaced his tires
three times during the trip. He completed the trip
175 hours and 5,875 miles later in Key West. By the
time, he made his way back to Grayling, Koppa had
spent 20 days on the road and had ridden 13,170
miles. He said the most dangerous parts of the trip
occurred during his return while riding through
Atlanta, Cincinnati and Dayton where he ran into
heavy traffic.
Pre-Owned Motorcycles
2009 BMW R1200GS,
2006 BMW K1200GT,
SILVER / SILVER, 10,900 METALLIC BLUE / SILVER,
miles, Excellent condition,
19,600 miles, Excellent
$12,490
condition, $10,750
2013 BMW S 1000 RR
Red/White/Black, 9,000
miles, Excellent condition,
$12,990
2008 BMW R1200RT
Metallic Blue/SILVER,
38,000 miles, Excellent
condition, $9,990
2015 BMW F800GT, Dark Graphite Metallic / Silver,
$13,890
2015 BMW R1200RT, San Marino BlueMetallic / Grey
$22,950
2014 BMW R1200GSA *DEMO*, Racing Blue Matt / Black,
$22,045
2013 BMW S1000RR, RED/WHITE / BLACK,
Sale Price: $12,990
2012 BMW G650GS Sertao, White/Blue/Black,
$7,250
2012 BMW K1600GTL, MINERAL SILVER / SILVER,
$19,990
2012 BMW K1600GTL, ROYAL BLUE METALLIC / SILVER,
$18,490
2011 BMW R1200GSA, GRAPHITE / BLACK,
$16,490
2010 BMW R1200GS, Graphite,
$12,990
2009 BMW R1200RT *LOW*, BLACK / SILVER,
$10,990
2009 BMW R1200GS, SILVER / SILVER,
$12,490
2008 BMW R1200RT, BLUE METALLIC / SILVER,
$9,990
2006 BMW R1200RT, GRAPHITE / SILVER,
$9,990
2006 BMW K1200GT, METALLIC BLUE / SILVER,
Sale Price: $10,490
Continued on page 17
BMW Motorcycles of
Southeast Michigan
14855 N. Sheldon Rd.
Plymouth, MI
734.453.0500
www.bmwmcsem.com
We take motorcycles of all brands and models as trade-ins. Bring us your bike when you’re ready to buy!
8
www.midwestmotorcyclist.com
April 2015
Book Review
Head Check: What It Feels Like to Ride Motorcycles
By Jack Lewis
Reviewed by Ray Peabody
Winter is the
perfect season for reading
motorcycle books. Since
riding isn’t often an option
during the winter months
here in the Midwest, the
next best thing is reading
about motorcycles until the
sun warms the earth anew.
Once we get into the riding
season, it’s… well… time to
ride.
Last year, the
subject of motorcycle books
I read leaned more towards
outlaw bikers, gun running,
drugs and inter-club
violence. Having not read
about the 1%er lifestyle
since Hunter S. Thompson’s
Hells Angels: The Strange and
Terrible Saga of Outlaw
Motorcycle Gangs, I enjoyed two books on the
subject last winter.
This year, motorcycle riding and
adventure books provided the theme for my
reading list. The first, No Thru Road by Clement
Salvadori, offered tales of international
motorcycle travel from the time the author first
started riding around Europe in his teens. An
entertaining read, the book described places and
adventures in the world most riders will not
likely experience.
Most recently, I read Jack Lewis’ latest
book, Head Check: What It Feels Like to Ride
Motorcycles. Some readers might recognize Lewis’
name as a columnist for Motorcyclist magazine.
That’s where I first read his work. Others,
especially military veterans, might recognize his
name from his book, Nothing in Reserve: True
Stories, not War Stories and his contribution to
Homecoming: Iraq, Afghanistan and the Home Front.
Head Check is a collection of
There’s much more to enjoy in this book.
Lewis’ Motorcyclist columns from a
Lewis shares experiences about riding a Harley in the
few years ago with at least one from
Middle East, a trip to Alaska and back aboard a Suzuki
his blog at www.jaxworx.com. The
650 V-Strom (two stories about this trip, actually), and
author is laugh out loud funny,
teaching his daughter to ride. In another story, he
frequently self deprecating,
describes his experience of taking his wife and his
sometimes somber / reflective but
Grandfather’s ancient Winchester Model 70 to
always honest and energetic. I had a
Boomershoot, a high-powered gun enthusiast event
hard time putting Head Check down
(complete with explosions) aboard a well-worn Ural
and, when I wasn’t reading it, I was
hack.
thinking about the next time I would
Lewis seems to be quite a character in
be able to
addition to a
pick it up.
“… I had progressed to the third stage of tequila: talented
I first
writer. He
I was rich, good looking and bullet proof.”
opened Head
paints clear,
– Author Jack Lewis, from the Classic Rock
Check at a
descriptive
Motel 6 in Flint,
chapter in Head Check
pictures with words
Michigan after a long day
and metaphors that help the
on the road. The first two stories,
reader visualize what’s happening in the story. I
Comes Around and Crashing Vashon,
enjoyed every page of this book, without exception.
pulled me in and had me laughing so
Lewis’ columns in Motorcyclist are always enjoyable
loud I’m certain my neighbors in the
and Head Check has confirmed my thinking that he is
room next door were wondering whether I was
at the top of any list of motorcycle writers currently
crazy.
producing. If anyone is better, I haven’t read his/her
The next story, Riding Home, is reflective
work. That’s not hyperbole.
and the longest in the collection at 28 pages and
Available on Litsam, Amazon and select
has appeared in various forms in several other
motorcycle stores and book stores.
publications. It is the story about Lewis picking up
his BMW R69S – “Honey” –
®
TM
upon his return from
military service in the
Middle East and taking the
long way home.
Another story, What
Kills Us, about motorcycle
training and safety, is
directed at active duty
service people who ride.
Readers might not
understand some of the
military acronyms but will
still get the message.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Spring Open House - May 30, 2015
This is the BIG one. The best food and refreshments you’ll find at any
Open House. Demo rides and entertainment. Factory test rider Nate
Kern will be here. Join us in celebrating the 2015 riding season!
Track Day - Monday, June 1, 2015
The 2015 Indian Roadmaster
Trike
Accessories include: Roadsmith trike kit, steering kit, electric reverse,
performance sway bar, upgraded wheels, and chrome bumper.
You’ve been looking for a trike but want one that’s
unique. This is it. Stop by our dealership today to see
the uniquely beautiful Indian® RoadmasterTM Trike.
The day costs $175, which includes track time, class room instruction
and lunch. All makes and models of bikes are welcome to attend our
track events! Factory test rider Nate Kern will join us. To register,
please call Audrey at (734) 453-0500
BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan
39933 Ford Road, Canton, MI
734.981.1479
www.bmwmcsem.com
TM
Midwest Motorcyclist
1765 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI
One mile north of Square Lake Rd. on the east side of Telegraph Rd.
248.920.2000 • www.ridemotorcity.com
9
Old School, New Tech, and a Strip Off-Season...
by Mike Mekinda
Sometimes you just have to
let the pictures tell the story, even if
the quality is less than amazing...
Pulled out the old-school
‘Wing on a cold, sunny day for a
head-clearing ride into the (not too
distant) distance. It was all about
The Ride, nothing more. I should
have known better than to leave my
camera, though. Heading east, I
eventually rolled through Geneva-OnThe-Lake, then turned back in to park
for a bit. On any summer day, this
strip is full of life. Bikes line the
street, families walk the sidewalks,
and hotrods cruise up and
down along the lakefront. Summer
days, the noise of engines fills the air,
as does the cacophony of crowds
filling the arcade, the kiddie rides, the
open-air restaurants and the bars. On
that day, the cusp of NE Ohio winter,
the strip was mostly shuttered and
empty, only the muted sounds of the
wind and the waves of nearby Lake
Erie foiling a total silence. With the
sun shining on buildings built in a
much simpler era, I was struck by
how quaintly beautiful this little
stretch of history really is, and
stunned I’ve never noticed. Amazing
what’s visible when folks are erased
from the image.
“Ohio’s oldest beach resort”
began as a family picnic area on the
shore in 1869, then ebbed and flowed
like the lake with which it shares the
shore. Also like the lake, the Geneva
strip has been calm and inviting as
often as it’s been stormy and
dangerous. Bikers and bars share
space with families and spas. Classy
weddings at the Lake Lodge coexist
with Thunder on the Strip, yet the old
charm, somehow, prevails over all.
Over the past several years,
the family atmosphere has (mostly)
returned to the strip, and with that,
crowds from all walks of life. On that
day, the lake was cold, yet calm and
inviting, and the strip was serene. The
crowds were gone, the buildings
shuttered for winter, and the rides
were quiet. Felt like only ghosts
walked with me, enjoying that early
winter day and the wonder of an
empty strip - ghosts laughing at a
photog without a camera. But they’re
old ghosts, unfamiliar with new tech
and the camera on my trusty
Blackberry. I only wish the phone
could capture their images as well.
Ride often (don’t let the cold
stop you!), ride smart, stay safe and
I’ll see you on the road!
-mike
Dr Cycholl is selling his Goldwing!
2003 GL1800A Honda Goldwing, Candy Orange paint with
a silver hand painted flame pinstripe job. About 55K miles.
More than $7000.00 in functional accessories, too many to
list. Everything works. This was the top of the line model in
2003. Factory equipment includes ABS brakes, cruise
control, intercom, electric reverse, stereo with input for mp3
player. Battery new last year, tires good. This bike needs
nothing, is ready to do a tour anywhere with no issues. This
bike is my prized possession, it would never be for sale if
not for a medical condition limiting my ability to continue
riding. It is a spectacularly good motorcycle. Smooth,
powerful, very
reliable. 100 hp, 100
ft lbs torq from the
stock unmodified
motor, with no
vibration and
legendary
reliability. I have
owned it since new.
Asking $13,000
Call 586.707. 0525
10
www.midwestmotorcyclist.com
April 2015
2015 Models Ar riving Daily!
Stop by our dealership today to see the top-of-the-line
adventure and touring motorcycles from BMW.
2015 BMW K 1600 GTL
Exclusive
Base MSRP: $29,995
Including ABS
2015 BMW R 1200 GS
Adventure
Base MSRP: $18,340
Including ABS
Tarmac, offroad, stones and sand: These are the challenges the
new BMW R 1200 GS Adventure is longing to master with its easy
and agile handling. A machine for those who want to test their
limits and go beyond them. Or to put it briefly: A motorcycle for
riders who are seeking real adventure and don’t want to miss out
on a great deal of riding pleasure in the process.
Touring all inclusive: the K 1600 GTL Exclusive.
When dynamic performance meets luxury, the result is always
exclusive and sensational. BMW Motorrad presents the K
1600 GTL Exclusive – a high-class touring bike that takes
technology and visual styling to the extreme. This GTL makes
all 6-cylinder dreams come true.
Amazing values on the remaining 2014 models in stock.
Stop by our dealership today!
BMW Motorrad
Dealer of Excellence
BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan
14855 N. Sheldon Rd., Plymouth, MI
734.453.0500
www.bmwmcsem.com
“Redefining your motorcycling lifestyle” SM
* For qualified buyers. Visit BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan for details. Always ride safely and wear proper protective gear.
TM
Midwest Motorcyclist
11
SWEET TRIKES
Trike Conversions
& Kits
Offering all
Harley-Davidson
FLs and Softails,
Honda VTX1300,
VTX1800, Gold
Wing and Valkyrie
Trikes and Trike
Kits.
Call for more
information.
Viet Nam
Vet Owned
& Operated
Honda VTX 1800
Honda Gold Wing
H-D Softail
H-D Sportster
3371 Whisper Ridge Drive, Lapeer, MI
810.357.2515
www.sweettrikes.com
Jerry B’s
CYCLE WORKS
Is the OEM part you’re
looking for OBSOLETE?
Give us a try!
We stock a large inventory
of parts and accessories no
longer in production by The
Motor Company. Stop by our
store or give us a call to find
the OEM parts for your H-D project!
* Order from us
and get
10% OFF
SPECIAL
ORDERS
MOTOR CITY UNDERWRITERS, INC.
Motorcycle and Auto insurance for 50 years!
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Motorcycles
Homeowners
ATVs
Personal Watercraft
Motorhomes
Snowmobiles
Boats
Serving
Autos
Michigan
Call or stop by our office for a free quote:
32743 Woodward Avenue, Royal Oak, MI 48073
(248) 549-4300
Toll free (800) 400-8564
residents
only
from:
Drag Specialties,
Kuryakyn,
Custom Chrome,
Mustang Seats,
Hot Topper Kits,
Biker’s Choice,
S&S
and many more
* Sorry, no
discounts on
Genuine H-D
stuff
* LARGE
SELECTION
of Cool Riding
Glasses:
Maxx Rider
Hi-Def
Global Vision
Fitovers
KD’s
Transitionals
Assorted
Goggles for day
& night riding
* BIKE
BRIGHT
in stock
Spray, 1/2
gallon &
1 gallon
We have leather swat vests
with pistol pockets in stock!
586.773.BIKE
(586.773.2453)
Located at 25430 Harper in St. Clair Shores
Two blocks North of 10 Mile Road on the East Side
Now on Facebook at Jerry Bs Cycle Works
Hi Viz Riders Launch ”BE SEEN” Campaign
Lansing, Michigan – Hi Viz Riders is
launching its inaugural “Be Seen”
motorcycle safety campaign in conjunction
with the May 2015 Motorcycle Awareness
Month. The campaign, which promotes the
use of Hi Viz motorcycle apparel featuring
bright yellow or orange neon colors and
reflective properties, is a national effort
promoting motorcycle rider safety.
“Motorcycle Awareness
Month is an effective vehicle for
encouraging car and truck
drivers to watch for
motorcyclists while driving,”
said Augie Fernandes, cofounder of Hi Viz Riders. “Our
campaign encourages
motorcycle riders to take the
next step in enhancing their
own safety by wearing bright,
colorful protective gear that
makes them more visible to other users of
the road. Hi Viz riding gear grabs their
attention.”
Scientific research provides the
foundation for launching the “BE SEEN”
campaign. According to Motorcycle rider
conspicuity and crash related injury: casecontrol study by Susan Wells, Bernadette
Mullin, et al (www.bmj.com/content/328/
7444/857.full), motorcycle riders “wearing
reflective or fluorescent clothing had a 37%
BMW Motorcycles of Detroit
34080 Van Dyke Ave.
Sterling Heights, MI, 48312
(586) 274-4000
www.bmwdetroit.com
lower risk of crash-related injury than those
who were not wearing such materials. When
stratified by ambient illumination, the
protective association seemed to increase with
falling light levels…” The researchers concluded
that “Low conspicuity may increase the risk of
motorcycle crash-related injury. Increasing the
use of reflective or fluorescent clothing, white or
light colored helmets, and daytime
headlights are simple, cheap
interventions that could considerably
reduce motorcycle crash-related
injury and death.”
Once the Hi Viz Riders have
established their 501c3 non-profit
status, the founders plan to use a
variety of tools to help promote
the use of Hi Viz apparel
including in-store post cards, a
website, social media, static cling
stickers for dealership doors,
reflective stickers for motorcycles, news
releases, industry articles, videos contrasting the
visibility of riders wearing dark, low
conspicuity apparel with that of bright, highconspicuity apparel and events. In order to fund
these products and activities, the organization
will be soliciting donations.
For more information, contact Hi Viz
Riders at (810) 923-8738, visit their website at
www.HiVizRiders.Homestead.com or visit their
Facebook page.
Now in West Michigan
This club is like none other - no politics, no B.S. We travel to
great riding destinations close by and far away. We learn to be
better riders. We share camaraderie and a common passion:
The Passion To Ride!
JOIN US
Disclaimer: This ain’t your mamma’s pokey bar hoppin’ motorcycle club. It also isn’t
a squidly club. We ride and we ride well. You are expected to ride within your limits.
You are expected to wear appropriate safety gear, ride a safely maintained machine,
and follow reasonable group riding etiquette. We welcome riders of all skill levels,
ages, genders, and marques. You will likely find like-minded members who ride at
your level of skill. The MSTA and Michigan MSTA assume no responsibility for your
safety, state of mind, average lean angle, or degree of rockin’ fun that you’ll
experience with us. Just motorcycle enthusiasts getting together to ride.
Check us out on Facebook @
MSTAWestMichigan or send an
e-mail to [email protected]
for more information.
The Live It Right Dream Ride
Even Birds Have Nests
By Jay Wilgus
Enjoying the back
roads of Colombia
Kim is a writer. She’s also a worldtraveler. In May 2012, she and her
husband left a comfortable life in
Oregon to scratch an itch that had
been bothering them for some time:
the 9-5 routine, the cubicle, the
humdrummery of life in the “real
world.” They’ve now been on the
road for almost three years
backpacking through the U.S., the
Himalayas, Patagonia, the Galapagos
islands, and countless places in
between. A while back though, Kim
shared something on her blog that
took me by surprise.
”I’m done traveling,” she said. The
road had taken her far enough and
she was ready to return home. She
had been struggling with this for a
while, but didn’t have the words to
admit it until a walk on the beach led
her to this: “Even birds have nests,”
she realized,
and a weight
began to lift off
her shoulders.
Like
Kim, Emily and
I have come to
realize that
we’re ready for
Volcan Cotopaxi a nest again as
well. We’ve
Ecuador
been on the
road for nearly a year. We’ve travelled more than
16,000 miles through 13 countries and have gotten a
healthy spoonful of adventure. We’re now ready to
come home.
On April 16th, we’ll board a flight from La
Paz, Bolivia to LAX. We’ll be in the U.S. for 5.5
months while we recharge, wait out the Patagonian
winter, and replenish our savings account. Our
adventure is not over, but it is approaching an
important intermission.
We miss home. We miss family.
We miss having pillows of our own.
Adventure travel is great, but it gets tiring
to be on the move all the time. We’ve had
experiences on this trip that others only
dream of, but along the way we’ve been
reminded that there’s another side to the
coin of self-indulgence.
It looks something like this: First,
the grass is always greener on the other
side. We know from talking to folks that
many would love to be in our position.
Traveling the world, doing something new
every day, enjoying the freedom to go
nearly anywhere we want. Well...what
those folks don’t realize is that we’d be
happy to trade places with them sometimes.
Although exploring new places is
wonderful, so is sitting in a nest of your
own with Netflix at the ready, preparing for
another day of meaningful work.
Continued on page 18
Jacket
Liners
G-3
Microwire
Gloves
Ultralight
Gloves
Heated
Socks
All controls &
accessories now in stock!
Retail Warehouse
BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan
39933 Ford Road, Canton, MI
734.981.1479
www.bmwmcsem.com
14
www.midwestmotorcyclist.com
Phone: (269) 651-2464 Fax: (269) 651-8767
1640 S. Centerville Road (M-66 South) , Sturgis, MI
We accept all major credit cards
Call (269) 651-2464 now or visit
our on-line store at www.ridewild.com
April 2015
NEW PRODUCT:
Giant Loop Tracker Packer™
Ruggedized Holster secures SPOT Gen3 to Rider or Vehicle
Portion of Gross Sales to Kurt Caselli Foundation
(BEND, OREGON USA) Adventure proof
packing and gear systems innovator Giant
Loop has introduced the Tracker Packer™
ruggedized holster for the SPOT Gen3 GPSenabled location tracker and emergency
beacon. Giant Loop worked in conjunction
with four-time Baja 1000 winner Quinn
Cody and the Kurt Caselli Foundation to
develop the Tracker Packer to help keep
off-road racers and riders safer. A
portion of all Tracker Packer
sales will be donated to the
Kurt Caselli Foundation
(www.kurtcaselli.com).
The super rugged
and secure Tracker Packer
firmly attaches the SPOT
Gen3 device to the rider’s
arm, backpack shoulder
strap, handlebars, fork tube,
or many other locations.
Redundant closures and multiple
connection and tether points help prevent
the SPOT from becoming separated from
rider or bike, even in the roughest, most
extreme riding conditions. The Tracker
Packer enables riders to follow best
practices by wearing the SPOT within
reach, in a horizontal position for optimal
satellite signal. By keeping the device in a
visible, easy-to-access location, anyone on
the scene can quickly deploy the SPOT’s
SOS signal in the event of an emergency,
sending the GPS location to an
international emergency response
coordination center.
The Tracker Packer is not just for
racing. When traveling beyond cell service,
riders can let family and friends know they
are OK or send emergency responders their
GPS location with the push of a button.
Tracker Packer features include a
high-visibility closure printed with
“EMERGENCY” and the “Caselli
66” logo, a redundant double
hook-and-loop SPOT Gen3
attachment system, a heavy
duty hook-and-loop band,
Slip-Not grippy backing,
foam padding to absorb
shock and vibration,
reflective trim for visibility,
fully bound seams and
webbing loops with
grommets for additional mounting and
tethering options.
Made in USA with militaryspecification components and materials,
the Tracker Packer is backed by a limited
lifetime warranty. USA MSRP is $40. The
Tracker Packer is available bundled with
the SPOT Gen3 for $150 exclusively at
www.giantloopmoto.com. For more
information and to contribute to the Kurt
Caselli Foundation, visit
www.kurtcaselli.com.
20%
OFF
all tires
installed
by us.
We stock:
Don’t wait! This deal won’t last long!
2015 Harley-Davidson®
Heritage Softail ® Classic
We have the full line of 2015
Harley-Davidson® motorcycles
- including the Project
Rushmore touring models - in
stock and available for
immediate delivery. It’s cold and
snowy now but spring is right around the corner.
The 2015 models have been selling fast. Don’t
miss your chance to own your dream bike.
Stop by our store today to find the Harley® of
your dreams.
Hamilton Harley-Davidson®
68951 White School Road (US-12)
Sturgis, MI
269.651.3424
www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com
Pre-Owned Motorcycles
2011 Harley-Davidson
FLHX - Street Glide
Mileage: 13,658. Red,
$17,999 plus tax & title
2012 Harley-Davidson
Tri Glide, 7,627 miles,
$26,999 plus tax & title
2013 Harley-Davidson
FLSTC Heritage Softail
Classic, 22 miles,
$15,999 plus tax & title
2007 Harley-Davidson
VRSCAW - V-Rod,
Black, Mileage:
12,791, $9,999 plus
tax & title
2008 Harley-Davidson
FLHTCU Ultra Classic Electra
Glide, 49,865 miles, Upgraded
to CVO Specs & Beyond. Over 90
line items of upgrades. 6 speed trans
with reverse. Heavily upgraded audio
with XM & GPS. Engine upgraded &
refreshed with dyno of 94HP. Heated
seats and grips.
$15,999 plus tax & title
1765 S. Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI
One mile north of Square Lake Rd. on the east side of Telegraph Rd.
248.920.2000 • www.ridemotorcity.com
TM
Midwest Motorcyclist
2006 Suzuki C50
2007 BMW R 1200 R,
Boulevard, Black,
SILVER, 72,357
16,300 miles,
miles, $5,999
$3,799 plus tax & title
plus tax & title
2012 Honda CBR 250R,
Red, 1,163 miles,
ONLY $2,999
plus tax, title
2007 Harley-Davidson
FLTR Road Glide,
3,479 miles, well over 25K invested. Some
highlights include: Chrome 21" front end
with Custom wheels, rotors, and calipers.
DayMaker LED lights. Electronically
operated opening custom saddlebags.
Diamond Cut Engine. Chrome everything!
Custom Paint. You must see this one!
$18,999 plus tax & title
on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/MotorCityMotorcycles
15
Spartan Cycle
Now Selling
Indian & Victory
Motorcycles
Continued from page 8 - Koppa Polio Benefit
Completing the ride in about seven days was a standalone
success. When you consider that Koppa raised more than $100,000 for
PolioPlus ($34,000 that he raised, $15,000 from an anonymous
donation in the name of Bob Gandolfi, past governor of Rotary
District 6290 who died one month prior to the bginning of the trip,
and matching funds from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation), the
effort was incredibly successful. Additionally, in September 2014, the
Rotary Charities of Traverse City approved a $250,000 grant to help
eradicate polio. It’s clear that, through these efforts, progress in this
fight is being made. It’s not enough, but it’s a huge step.
Koppa, who was previously the Camp Commander at Camp
Grayling, praised the help BMW Motorcycles of Grand Rapids
provided him in preparation for the trip. He was also grateful that
the dealership organized an Open House in support of his ride.
When asked about future charity rides, Koppa indicated that
talks are progressing but no specific plans have been set. To see
pictures from Wayne Koppa’s Coast to Coast - The Hard Way Ride
for Polio Eradication trip or make a donation, go to
www.tinyurl.com/razoo-coasttocoast.
Mount Clemens, Michigan – Spartan Cycle has
announced that they have begun selling the full
line of Indian and Victory motorcycles. The
dealership, which opened for business in April
2014, has been selling used and custom
motorcycles as well as providing service and
repairs on all American-made motorcycles in its
10,000 square foot facility.
“Taking on Indian and Victory has
been part of the plan from the beginning,” said
Sales Manager Gary Latessa. “Since Polaris
acquired Indian several years ago, they
introduced their own V-twin engine and
improved the quality of the products overall.
The Victory motorcycles are also well built
with styling traits provided by Arlen Ness.
Polaris has done a great job with both brands.”
In preparation for bringing in the new
brands, Spartan has remodeled their
showroom including new lighting,
flooring, and displays. The showroom has
been filling with new motorcycles over the
last couple weeks.
For more information about
Spartan Cycle, visit the store at 44701
Gratiot Avenue, Clinton Township,
Michigan, call the store at (586) 684-3372 or
visit their website at
www.spartancycle.com.
SPRING OPEN HOUSE
Saturday, May 9th, 2015 • 10am – 4pm
Join us to celebrate the beginning
of the 2015 riding season!
Kendon Stands
Out In 2015
Stand-Up Trailer & Lift Company
Under New Ownership
Anaheim, CA - January 27, 2015 - Kendon,
the originator of the Stand-Up™ trailer
concept, is standing tall in the new year.
New private equity ownership and plenty
of new products in the works, including
the expansion of the innovative line of
Ride-Up Trailers, have the Southern
California company standing tall!
”The first objective is to increase
our production so supply will meet the
demand,” says company President Frank
Esposito. “Kendon is pleased to announce
that it has established a funding source.
This will allow the brand to react to an
ever-increasing demand for Kendon StandUp Trailers and accessories.”
Back in 1991 Ken and Tina Thurm
started Kendon with a vision of building
the best motorcycle trailer on the market
and throughout the years they’ve worked
side by side growing Kendon. While Tina
will leave the company to pursue other
professional and personal interests, Ken
Thurm will continue to consult on future
Kendon products.
Thurm revolutionized the concept
of a totally portable trailer that could
“stand up” out of the way, freeing up
workspace in any garage. Within a few
short months, the Kendon Stand-Up™
trailer had created an entirely new
category of trailer, and over two decades
later, the concept clearly still works. “We
are grateful to Ken for his vision and I am
very pleased that he will continue to
consult with us on product design and
manufacturing.”
”Through the efforts of many, we
are well poised to respond to the everincreasing demand from our customers,”
concludes Esposito. “This marks my
seventh year with Kendon and I can say
with utmost confidence that there is a very
bright future Kendon in 2015!”
USED MOTORCYCLES & ATVs
1983 CB 1000 CUSTOM, All Stock, 52,800 Miles, Well Maintained, Very Clean,
$1,495
2007 VTX 1300, 2,600 Miles, All Stock, Windshield, Backrest, $4,995
2010 CRF 250R, FRESH TOP END, FRESH VALVES, RG3 BLACK TRIPLE CLAMPS,
HARD COATED FORKS, SET UP FOR 160lB rider, 4.1 with powerbomb Header,
CV4 HOSES, $3,995
• Food and refreshments
• Demo rides (weather permitting, 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.)
• Much more!
BMW Motorcycles of Detroit
2005 ROYAL STAR 1300 VENTURE, 65,000 Miles, CB Intercom System,
Aftermarket Exhaust, Comes with a matching trailer for an additional $800,
$5,995
2009 V-STAR 1300 TOURING, 7,500 Miles, Saddle Bags, Windshield, Sissy bar,
Like New, $6,795
2005 BOULEVARD C50, 24,000 Miles, Saddle Bags, Windshield, Runs Great,
$3,495
34080 Van Dyke Ave., Sterling Heights, MI
(586) 274-4000 • www.bmwdetroit.com
16
www.midwestmotorcyclist.com
6971 Highland Road
248-666-4651
Waterford, MI 48327 www.tech-care.com
April 2015
Open Terrain: Exploring the World and Soul by Motorcycle
The Touratech Empire
by Nicole Espinosa
You won’t find a throne decorating the
leader’s office of a company that’s sitting at the top
of a niche industry today. Instead, you’ll find
royalty spread out evenly amongst the employees
and distributors in a collaborative effort while the
founder and CEO checks any ego at the door. This is
just a sampling of what Herbert Schwarz has done
to build the empire of his top-running adventure
motorcycle aftermarket business, Touratech. You’ll
also find the company’s strong foundation built
upon forward thinking innovation that challenges
today’s engineering standards. This innovation is
dialed into every new product they produce in
order to satisfy needs that aren’t otherwise being
met in the marketplace. And to stay at the top of the
heap of this growing sector, Herbert has exercised
strong business and engineering savvy and high
expectations of their gear, all the while keeping a
finger on the pulse of the market by pushing the
limit through his own world travel.
The Schwarz family in New Zealand
that will keep the growing family sector of our
adventure motorcycling industry on the road with
more style and comfort.
Thanks to my bike catching on fire last
summer, my jacket and helmet took a beating with
hot melted side-bag fallout. To my delight,
Touratech came to the rescue asking me to test their
Companero high-tech motorcycle suit and new
Aventuro helmet. Because of his experience as an
adventure rider, Herbert knows the incredible
demands gear must endure on long journeys. It was
of utmost importance to him to design a riding suit
and helmet that addresses all seasons,
environments, and riding conditions. In the end,
both lines are modular and expand into three
products for the price of one top-quality item.
The Companero provides a summer suit as
Nicole in the Companero
the base layer with extensive ventilation and airy
high-tech motorcycle suit
Cordura AFT material for those riders who choose
and new Aventuro helmet
to include scorching deserts and intensely humid
regions as their adventure playgrounds. Attention
out of the helmet, there is an extra long chin strap so
to comfort, safety, and aesthetic detail sets this suit
the DD ring can remain threaded when removing the
above all others. Female sizing and fitment ensures
helmet. And with the snug interchangeable padding,
that the suit fits my sized frame while keeping all
noise is drastically reduced for highway travel. There
CE level 2 armor sitting in the proper places for the
was a huge difference in weight when it came to
utmost protection. This suit can be zipped together
comparing this 3.0 lb Aventuro carbon fiber small to
and also includes a convenient forearm pocket with
my old Arai XD4 at 6.4 lbs. And, I was thrilled to find
a windowfor mobile phone and a soft-lined pocket
that it came with speaker cavities ready for me to
on the upper arm for glasses. A detachable rear
plug in my Sena comm system. To keep wind noise
pocket is large enough to store the GORE-TEX wind
and cold air off the chin, the added chin flap is worth
and waterproof over-jacket. This second winter suit
its weight in gold. This top quality helmet now sits
fits securely over the summer suit to keep the rider
at the top of the heap, just like Touratech, with an
bone dry in the nastiest of conditions. This outer
MSRP of $649.
jacket is also great looking
and versatile enough to
serve as a jacket out on the
town when off the bike.
Large selection
Riding
So far, southern
California skies haven’t
of saddle bags,
Jackets
dropped cold rain on any of
travel bags,
as low as
my rides since early fall
$
windshield bags,
when I got the suit, so I’ve
10000
only been testing the
& magnetic tank
summer suit with a Warm &
bags
Safe heated jacket liner
underneath for chilly
Packin’ Tee
2nd Annual
mornings. All in all, the
Concealment
HOGS in Ministry
CHAPS
European cut makes both
T-Shirt
as low as
men and women look great
Bike Blessing
99
in this suit, and has proven
$
00
May 9, 2015
that the top quality design
all sizes,
and material of two full suits Free coffee, donuts @ 9:30 a.m.
with holster
Blessing @ noon
in one is well worth the
MSRP of $1,495 and $995 for
HarleyConcealment
the two pants.
VESTS
Touratech’s new
Davidson
Vests
as low as
Aventuro carbon helmet is
$
00
as low as
raising the bar with its 3-in-1
00
modular design addressing
$50
$
50
the dual sport, off road, and
street markets with one
Ride down and visit the LARGEST and MOST COMPLETE
helmet. My favorite
LEATHER SHOP in Southwest Michigan near the Indiana State line.
selection is the “dual sport”
with features that include the
no-drag visor that has large
pass-through vents, and a
(269) 651-2464 Fax: (269) 651-8767
Pin-Lock lens that can be
1640 S. Centerville Road (M-66 South) , Sturgis, MI
attached to the face shield to
We accept all major credit cards
reduce the chance of fogging.
Call
(269)
651-2464 now or visit our on-line store at www.ridewild.com
For quicker time getting in/
Get a Jump on the 2015 Riding Season
Herbert founded Touratech in the early ‘90s
with the help of Jochen Schanz when the adventure
motorcycling industry was in its infancy. Through
the years, Touratech has branched out into luggage,
protection, comfort, and navigation, while adding a
wide assortment of other manufacturer’s outdoor
equipment and clothing lines. Throughout the
company’s growth, Herbert has brilliantly pushed
his marketing campaign to include living and
breathing advertising by sponsoring many global
travelers who are out there giving Touratech
products a good thrashing all over the world, and
solidifying the name in the process.
In 2006, Herbert was in search of a “woman
who likes to suffer” to be the fourth rider for
Touratech’s CAN2MEX video that documents the
treacherous journey from Canada to Mexico on dirt
roads. Ramona Eichhorn jumped at the chance, and
proved that she could suffer this endurance test like
the rest of the guys. Through the pounding of the
journey, Herbert and Ramona fell in love, and have
grown into one of our industry’s favorite power
couples. As a team, they ramped up their global
adventures and launched off to secretly test the
unreleased, at the time, F800GS in places like
Ethiopia, Scotland, Southeast Asia and East Africa.
Slowing down for a moment to have children gave
them a chance to pass on this love of adventure to
the next generation as Herbert totes their two boys
around in his BMW R1200GS sidecar hack. This
gives the company new insight for future products
TM
Midwest Motorcyclist
$41
75
JEANS
40
18
Retail Warehouse
17
Motorcycle Expeditionary Forces
Set Sights on Wisconsin
2nd Annual
HOGS in Ministry
Bike Blessing
Motomarathon to circumnavigate state for long-distance,
sport-touring adventure May 29-June 1
WISCONSIN DELLS, WI – March 12, 2015 –
(Motor Sports Newswire) – The Motomarathon
Association will bring its long-distance, motorcycle
sport-touring format to the Badger State from May
29 - June 1, with the 2015 Wisconsin
Motomarathon™ starting and ending in Wisconsin
Dells with overnights in Silver City, Mich., and
Hayward, Wisc.
“Our Wisconsin Routemasters have
designed a scenic backroad adventure,
circumnavigating the entire state through its forests,
prairies, rivers, lakes, hills, dales and dells,” said
Motomarathon Founder John Metzger. “In our quest
to ride America’s
Saturday, May 9, 2015
Free coffee, donuts @ 9:30 a.m.
Blessing @ noon
great motorcycling regions, we’re excited to discover what
Wisconsin has to offer.”
For a $50 fee, participants will receive a
precisely engineered route for each day, and a copy of
Metzger’s book, Motorcycling Through Midlife, which he
wrote to help baby boomers manage the dangerous
adolescent urges of “midlife crisis” through his personal
journey on a motorcycle.
Motomarathon routes and checkpoints are kept
secret until the night before each day’s ride. Participants
complete a series of self-recorded checkpoints,
photographing their badge numbers at designated
landmarks. For more information, visit
www.motomarathon.com or call John Metzger at
303-641-1062.
Retail Warehouse
Phone: (269) 651-2464 Fax: (269) 651-8767
1640 S. Centerville Road (M-66 South) , Sturgis, MI
We accept all major credit cards
Call (269) 651-2464 now or visit
our on-line store at www.ridewild.com
Continued from page 14 - Live It Right Dream Ride
Second, we need a purpose. Extended
travel provides a valuable exhale, but it doesn’t
necessarily contribute to the greater good.
We’ve watched from the road as the events in
Ferguson unfolded. We took pause when Robin
Williams took his own life. We skirted around
an area in Mexico where 43 students were
abducted and killed by their government for
resisting corruption. And we’ve passed by
desperate levels of poverty, where many are
forced to comb through landfills for their next
meal. We’ve been rather silent through all of
this, but we can sit idle no longer. It’s time to
re-engage. It’s time to contribute so that others
might someday enjoy the same privileges that
SPRING FLING
OPEN HOUSE
Saturday, April 18, 2015
We’re celebrating a new riding
season, new models, and great
weather. Help us celebrate!
• Demo rides • Storewide specials
• Food / refreshments • and much more
we do.
Although our adventure hasn’t been
nearly as long as Kim’s, it has led us to the same
conclusion. It’s time for a nest. It’s time to stay in
one place for a while. It’s time to subject our
brains and bodies to some good old fashioned
work. We’ll spread our wings again in October.
Until then, check back here for a review of our
bikes, our gear, and some additional stories from
the road.
To read more about our adventure south,
please visit www.liveitrightdreamride.com. While
you’re clicking around, please also visit Kim’s
website: www.so-many-places.com. She’s a great
writer and a valuable resource for turning your
dreams into reality. Many thanks to her for
reminding us that it’s okay to crave a nest.
Job Opportunities
Seeking Service Technicians & Parts Advisors
Great opportunity in a small but busy non-franchise
facility in Waterford. Requirements include:
• 5 years experience • Solid work ethic
• Tools (technician) • Good driving record
• Motorcycle endorsement
• Avid motorcycle enthusiast
5995 South Division
Grand Rapids, MI
(616) 530-6900
www.bmwmcgr.com
18
Call Dave Bowman to set up an interview.
6971 Highland Road
248-666-4651
Waterford, MI 48327 www.tech-care.com
www.midwestmotorcyclist.com
April 2015
Events
Events do change.
Please call ahead.
Michigan
March 28
Michigan Dressers Motorcycle Club
Spring BashAthena Hall, 25650 Gratiot Ave.
Roseville, MI
7 p.m. to 1 a.m.
$35 per ticket includes buffet dinner, beer,
soft drinks, live band, dancing
(586) 703-1601,
[email protected] or
www.michigandressers.8k.com
April 2
Ladies’ Garage Party
ABC Harley-Davidson
4405 Highland, Road (M-59)
Waterford, MI
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
HEY Ladies!!! Whether you ride, want to
ride or just a passenger this fun &
informational event about the Harley
Lifestyle is for you! Free food, door prizes
and free goodie bags! RSVP for a night of
guaranteed fun!
(248) 674-3175
April 4
Indoor Tent Event
Capitol Harley-Davidson
9550 Woodlane Dr., Dimondale, MI 48821
517.646.2345
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
April 4
Crack on egg to see what you won
Gildner’s Harley-Davidson
2723 South M-76, West Branch, MI
(989) 345-1330
9am-4pm
Stop in on Saturday, April 4th and open an
egg to see what you get.
April 11
Fashion Show
Capitol Harley-Davidson
9550 Woodlane Dr.
Dimondale, MI 48821
517.646.2345
12pm-1pm Check out the new seasonal
MotorClothes collection
39933 Ford Road, Canton, MI
734.981.1479
www.bmwmcsem.com
April 16th
Griffin’s Bike Night
Grand Rapids Harley-Davidson
2977 Corporate Grove Drive
Hudsonville, MI - (877) 596-6387
April 18
Bacon & Bikes
4405 ABC Harley-Davidson
Highland Road (M-59)
Waterford, MI
Can you ever get enough of FREE
Bacon?? Hot breakfast and Ride-in
Bike Show. Win awesome door prizes.
- (248) 674-3175
April 18
Helmet Exchange
Capitol Harley-Davidson
9550 Woodlane Dr.
Dimondale, MI 48821
517.646.2345
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Receive 20% off a new helmet with
the exchange of your used one!
April 19
Birch Run Motorcycle Swap Meet
Presented by Bubba’s Tri City Cycle &
Michigan Motorcyclist® magazine
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: $6
Birch Run Expo Center
11600 North Beyer Road
Birch Run, MI
Info: (989) 893-5187 or
[email protected]
April 25
Polish Palooza
ABC Harley-Davidson
4405 Highland Road (M-59)
Waterford, MI
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
We’re at it again with FREE delicious
Polish Food and inspired
entertainment. Door prizes and an
awesome fun time! You don’t want to
miss this one!
(248) 674-3175
April 25
H-D Demo Days & Ready To Ride
Workshops
Shiawassee Sports Center
11901 South Beyer Road,
Birch Run, MI
(989) 624-4400
April 25
Region 20 Awareness Ride
Randy (810) 533-6456
April 11
ABATE Region 20
Annual Awareness Party
Bancroft Hall
120 Warren Street, Bancroft, MI
Begins 7 p.m.; $10 / person
For info, Lisa Vail (517) 294-3431 or
www.abatemichigan 20.com
April 25-26
13th Annual SPRING OPEN HOUSE
Steve Baller will be here again
pinstriping bikes, trikes, trailers,
helmets, etc.
(Call early and schedule a time slot or
just show up & sneak your way in line)
Michigan Chrome Shop
69090 N. Main Street
Richmond, MI
(586) 727-7829
April 15
15th Annual Boot Camp - 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Ray C’s Harley-Davidson
1422 Imlay City Road, Lapeer, MI
(810) 664-9261
April 15
ABATE of Michigan Legislative Day
Capitol Building, Lansing, Michigan
9:30 a.m.
April 17
Charity Fashion Show
Newest rider fashions from KLIM, Olympia
and BMW. Hors d’oeuvres and
refreshments; $25 per person to benefit
United Cerebral Palsy Foundation of
Michigan.
BMW Motorcycles of Southeast Michigan
TM
Midwest Motorcyclist
April 26
14th Annual Lakeshore
Blessing of the Bikes
Ottawa County Fairgrounds
1286 Ottawa Beach Road
Holland, MI
Gates open at 10 a.m.
Bike show for cash prize / trophy
Door prizes @ 2:15 p.m.
Blessing at 3 p.m.
$5 Donation (Bike or Car)
April 30
Country Bike Night
Grand Rapids Harley-Davidson
2977 Corporate Grove Drive
Hudsonville, MI - (877) 596-6387
Music, Beer, Food, Bikes & You!
May 2
ABATE Region 5
Spring Bash & Membership Party
Scott (231) 206-9579
May 3
All Clubs Ride & Swap Meet
Stockbridge, MI
May 9
nd
2 Annual HOGS in Ministry
Bike Blessing
Indiana
March 28
ABATE Region 11 Johnson County
Golden Oldies
GREENWOOD AMERICAN LEGION
POST #252, 334 US 31,
Greenwood, IN
6:00 pm - Midnight.
$15 per person or $25 per couple.
Minimum age 18. Public welcome.
For more information call Lou at 317-4967298 or Robin at 317-457-2513
March 29
ABATE Region 12 Easter Egg Hunt
Riley VFW grounds (on Indiana 159).
Time: 1:30pm. FREE to everyone: Open to
the public. Children must be accompanied
by a parent.
Dave 812-877-1676
April 10-11
ABATE Region 5 Battle of the Bands
The Valhalla Room Heorot Pub & Drought
House
219 S. Walnut St.
Muncie, IN 47303.
Starts 6:00pm. Admission: $3 per person.
For more information contact: Region 5
Director. Tony Brummett
765-808-0534. Delaware Co. Rep. Brian
Wormer
765-707-7637.
April 11
ABATE Region 8
Memorial Ride In The Wind
call (812) 430-8070.
April 11
ABATE Region 2 Lake County
Candlelight Bowl - Family friendly event!
Set Em Up Lanes
135 N. Broad St., Griffith, IN.
Starts at 10:00pm.
$30 per couple. $20 per individual.
$10 for non-bowlers. Food, fun, prizes.
(219) 712-4691.
April 11
ABATE Region 10 Spring Thaw
Crawford County 4-H Club
Old 37 in Old English, IN.
Gates Open: 12:00 Noon, Saturday.
ABATE Members $10.00, Non-members
$14.00; Must be 18yrs. to enter
Campers welcome Friday & Saturday
nights. Free Camping. Live Music.
Silent Auction. Fun Run (weather
permitting).
For more information call: Darla 812-5081139, Thom Henderson (Hippy)
812-865-6030. or call (812) 278-8717.
April 12
ABATE Region 1 Marshall County
Swap Meet
”The Oldest Meet in North Central
Indiana”.
Indiana National Guard Armory,
1220 West Madison Street,
Plymouth, IN 46563.
9:00am – 4:00pm.
Admission $5.00 per person. Everyone
Welcome. Open to the general public.
For vendor or event information call or
text: Dan Perry 574-298-9860,
[email protected].
April 18
Region 7 Bartholomew County
Spring Fling 2015
Saturday Ride starts & Ends at:
VFW Post #1987
215 North National Road,
Columbus, IN
Reg. 11am-12:30pm.
$20 per person or $30 per couple.
Food & ride t-shirt (all while supplies
last), ride, dance with live band, field
events and primitive camping. Live
Music: Dancing and band ing at 8:00pm.
For more information, Teresa McCrory
812-603-6523. or
[email protected] or call
(812) 603-6523.
April 25
ABATE Region 10 Orange County
Redneck Romp
Orange County Park,
1100 Saddle Club Lane, Paoli, IN
Gates open at 9:00am.
$10 per person. Must be 18 or older.
Located
Free primitive camping. Live music
For event information contact Vicki
Gerkin 812-675-3244 or BettyBoop 812865-6068 or
[email protected]
April 25
ABATE Region 11 Marion County
Battle Of The Bands
Rock House Cafe, 3940 S. Keystone Ave,
Indianapolis, IN 46227
12:00 Noon-12:00 Midnight.
$5 per person, minimum age 21.
Maelene 765-426-6438 or
[email protected]
April 25
Region 1 Fulton County Shoot
[email protected]
or call (574) 933-3478.
April 25
ABATE Region 13 Davies County
Tourney Journey
Angle Inn, Business 50 West End of town
Washington, IN (.)
Sign-in: 11:00am–12:00 noon
Ride leaves at 12:00pm.
Cost: $10.00 per bike on ride. $5.00 per
dart player. For information email to
[email protected] or call (812) 257-8785.
April 26
ABATE Region 1 Blessing Of The Bikes
@ Stauffer Park, 5 blocks East of SR 19
on US 6 to Summit Street. Go North and
the street runs into the park
11:00 AM. For info Wayne Kopec
574-298-3200 or Duane Moneyheffer at
574-773-7067
April 26
ABATE Region 4 Bike Show
and Swap Meet
Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds,
Lafayette, IN
10:00am-4:00pm.. Bike Show $5 entry;
cash prizes & trophy classes, judging
starts at noon; Tattoo Contest, Fashion
Show; Admission only $3.00 per person.
For info Jan Johns at 765-878-4691 or
[email protected]
(765) 878-4691.
April 26
ABATE Region 3
Support our Troops 2015
For info, [email protected] or call
(765) 437-8341.
Ohio
May 9
Fuel Cleveland
Invitational Bike Show
Clif’s Warehouse
2222 Lakeside Ave E.
Cleveland, Ohio
www.fuelcleveland.blogspot.com/
June 5-7
Queen City Mods vs Rockers
Cincinnati, OH
July 17-19
AMCA National Flat Track &
Vintage Bike Day
Midwest
June 5-7
Rockerbox Motofest
Road America
N7390 State Hwy 67
Plymouth, Wisconsin
June 6-7
Ride for Research
A 2-Day Dual Sport Event, which is
sanctioned by the American
Motorcycle Association. Dual sport is
a type of motorcycle riding which is a
mix of off road trails connected with
the use of roads. Participants of our
events are from WI but we also draw
participants from throughout the
United States. Trails are used with
permission and/or permits through
the USFS, County forests, and private
landowners. Trails range from 2
track, gravel, minimal pavement (as
little as we can), and single track
sections that are optional- Saturday’s
route is usually about 130 miles and
Sunday’s route is usually about 80
miles (though miles and routes
change often yearly). The motorcycles
are street legal motorcycles that are
fully off road capable. This event is
held in Wabeno, WI.
Registration fee includes
camping, meals, trail support, t-shirts
and two days of great riding through
the Northwoods in Wisconsin, riders
raise funds to benefit the UW Cancer
Research Center in Madison, WI. For
more information or to register, visit
the Wisconsin Dual Sport Riders
website at
www.widualsportriders.org/v3/
events.asp
June 13-15
Motoblot, Gearheads United
formerly Mods vs Rockers
Chicago
www.motoblot.com
July 9-12
Sportbike Rally Revisited
Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada
19
Big Changes in the 2015 Michigan
Motorcycle Safety Program
by Jason Waechter, Esq.
In 2015 the Michigan Motorcycle
Safety Program will begin the transition
to the new Motor
Cycle Safety
Foundation (MSF)
Basic Rider Course
(BRC) 2014. The new
curriculum will
require all sites to be
recertified and all
coaches to attend a
pass/fail Rider Coach
Transitional Coach
Prep (T-RCP). The
new course has a
computer home study
course called the eCourse. This computer
based class is very
similar to a traffic
safety computer course
that covers the basic
skills that are taught in
a traditional
motorcycle safety class
the 1st night. The
eCourse has a quiz
after each section and
the student rider must
score 80% or better to
move to the next
section. The sections
are Course
Introduction,
Motorcycle Types,
Controls & Equipment, About Basic
Operation, Preparing to Ride, Basic
Street Strategies, Strategies for Common
Riding Situations, Basic Street Strategies,
Basics for Emergencies, Special Riding
Situations, and Rider Impairments. At
the end of the computer course the
student MUST print the fi and bring it to
class the 1st night. No certificate=no
riding. Students will meet in the
classroom the 1st night, do the
paperwork and take a quiz on the
eCourse material.
Grand Rapids Community College,
Ferris State University and Schoolcraft
College will start with the new course.
The Detroit-Metro program students
will be divided into 2 groups and one
group will start riding on Friday night.
The 1st riding group will ride for 4-5
hours or till dark and finish Saturday
morning. The range exercises in Level 1
range are: Motorcycle Familiarization,
Using the Friction Zone, Starting and
Stopping Drill, Basic Skill Practice,
Pressing to Initiate and Adjust Lean,
Stopping More Quickly & Tight turns
from a Stop, and Stopping Distance
Demonstration. The 2nd group will start
riding the Level 1 range exercises while
the 1st group will go into the classroom
20
www.midwestmotorcyclist.com
and do the Level 2 classroom. The Level 2
classroom consists of group activities and
student centered learning. On
the next day the 1st group rides
the Level 2 range while the 2nd
group does the level 1
classroom. Level 2 range
consists of Limited Space
Maneuvers, Stopping in a
Curve, Curve Judgment,
Multiple Curves & Lane
Changes, Crossing an Obstacle
& Swerving, and Skill Practice.
The student riding test is the
Rider Skills Test (RST) with a
curve added to it. The RST is
the state current motorcycle
licensing test in Michigan.
“In the fall of 2014 we
piloted the new curriculum at
Schoolcraft College. We had 2
groups of students in the pilot
class: the eCourse group and a
group that took the traditional
classroom the 1st night. The
eCourse students were very
well prepared and were better
students than the traditional
classroom students on the
range and in the classroom,”
states Vince Consiglio,
Regional Coordinator.
Registration for motorcycle
safety classes for 2015 has
started for most sites. At
$25.00 per class these courses are the best deal
in motorcycling. In 2012, 58% of
motorcyclists fatalities didn’t have a cycle
endorsement. In fact, since 1989 Michigan has
averaged 40% of motorcyclists fatalities not
having an endorsement. A rider can take the
cycle riding skills test or complete a safety
class to get an Operator Cycle License (OCY).
You may be surprised if you ask to see your
riding partners OCY. Let us make 2015 a safer
year, make sure you got your OCY and be a
friend and check out your buddies.
Attorney Jason A. Waechter is a national
attorney specializing in the areas of motorcycle and
motor vehicle injury litigation. Mr. Waechter has
collected millions of dollars in settlements, awards
and verdicts for his motorcycle clients over the past
20 years. Jason feels a duty to give back to his
community. A portion of each case settled goes to
educational resources for bikers, funds to help
bikers while their cases are being litigated and our
motorcycle accident prevention campaign. Call
Attorney Jason Waechter toll free at 1-877-BIKER
LAW. Or visit www.TheMotorcycleLawyer.com
Legal disclaimer: The law is very fact dependent and
there are many nuances and exceptions depending
on your particular circumstances. Therefore, given
the limited space, it is impossible to cover
everything. Do not rely on the short article to
protect your rights.
April 2015
The Preacher Speaks About ...
Motorcycling
Across Michigan
Book Review
by Franz Hoffer
As I’ve
written previously,
and as much as it
hurts, I am not going
to the Sturgis Rally
this year. It’s the 75th
anniversary and
hotel rooms are
pretty much double
in normal price of
around $350 sometimes more - per
night. Attendance
projections for
Sturgis and the
surrounding area is
about 1 million
attendees; the
average annual
attendance is right
around 400,000.
Even with the
400,000, lines at the
gas pumps can be 20 minutes or longer. I
can’t imagine what it will be like with 1
million. So for 2015, my gang - my riding
buddies - are doing what we are calling a
“Pure Michigan” tour on our bikes. I am
being tasked with planning the ride so I
got a book off my shelf that has been
there for a couple of years called
“Motorcycling Across Michigan” by
William Murphy, an avid rider and
author of seven books.
Murphy is a biker with more
than 40 years riding experience and a
former Marine and Vietnam veteran.
“Motorcycling Across Michigan” is about
the people, places, attractions, great
roads, and history of Michigan based on
his personal experiences. Murphy offers
some great advice that can only come
from hours on the bike.
The book is 262 pages long with
great illustrations, maps, and
commentary. It’s divided up into seven
sections: Lake Shore Routes; Small
Towns, Vineyards, Orchards and
Farmland; Historic Routes; The Great
North Woods; Great Lakes Circle Tours;
Some Good Local Rides; and Desirable
Destinations. The appendix is full of
handy website addresses, emergency
contact info such as County Sheriff,
Michigan State Police, motel toll-free
numbers, a directory of Michigan
motorcycle dealers and repair shops, and
a complete listing of Michigan
Motorcycle Laws and Regulations. In
2014, Murphy wrote an updated version
TM
Midwest Motorcyclist
of the book called “Ride
Michigan.” I have chosen
to use “Motorcycling
Across Michigan” for our
summer trek …for no
particular reason other
than I like it.
I have lived in Michigan
since I was in 1st grade.
My family emigrated here
from Germany.
Essentially, I consider
myself to have lived my
entire life in Michigan
and thought I knew the
State well; both the Upper
and Lower Peninsula. I
used to travel around the
state quite a bit before I
got married and
afterwards with my wife
and family. But this book
by Murphy has so much
information of which I was not aware
that it seemed as if I was new to the State.
It goes into great detail and gives exact
routing on the trips as well as mileage
guides. It also provides advice about
what to watch out for.
You can meet Murphy at several
venues around the state starting on April
14th. He will be at the Local Authors Day
event at the Delta Township Library, just
west of Lansing, MI from 6:00 to 7:30 in
the evening. Later that same week, on
Sunday, April 19th, he’ll be at the Birch
Run Swap Meet. On May 17th,, Murphy
will be at the Baker College Car & Bike
Show.
I found the book on both Barnes
& Noble and Amazon for $7.35 (used) in
good condition (it’s a paperback); new
was around $9.00. The reviews on both
websites all rated the book with 5 stars.
It’s a must for the serious motorcyclist,
resident or out of state tourist who wants
a quality ride through Michigan. Murphy
has also written other travel books for
motorcyclists covering Ohio, Wisconsin
and Indiana. Do yourself a favor; get this
book.
Next month will see a return of
“Tech Talk” with Jerry B and the month
after that I plan on taking the
Experienced Rider Course from Gary
Lewandowski and his organization,
“Ride Like A Pro”.
At this writing, the snow is
almost gone, spring is in the air…and the
Harley is ready to go!
Michigan
Harley-Davidson
Dealer Events
For a complete list of Michigan Harley-Davidson
Dealer Association Members, see the dealer
locator on page 23.
March 28
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Bacon & Bikes
Yep... FREE Bacon Breakfast!
Door prizes and more!
ABC Harley-Davidson
4405 HIGHLAND RD (M-59),
WATERFORD
(248) 674-3175
www.abc-harley-davidson.com
April 2
Ladies’ Garage Party
ABC Harley-Davidson
4405 Highland, Road (M-59)
Waterford, MI
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
HEY Ladies!!! Whether you ride,
want to ride or just a passenger
this fun & informational event
about the Harley Lifestyle is for
you! Free food, door prizes and
free goodie bags! RSVP for a night
of guaranteed fun!
(248) 674-3175
April 4
Indoor Tent Event
Capitol Harley-Davidson
9550 Woodlane Dr., Dimondale,
MI 48821
517.646.2345
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
April 4
Crack on egg to see what
you won
Gildner’s Harley-Davidson
2723 South M-76,
West Branch, MI
(989) 345-1330
Stop in and open an egg to see
what you get.
April 11
Fashion Show
Capitol Harley-Davidson
9550 Woodlane Dr.
Dimondale, MI; 517.646.2345
12pm-1pm
April 15
15th Annual Boot
Camp
5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Ray C’s
Harley-Davidson
1422 Imlay City Rd,
Lapeer, MI; (810) 664-9261
April 16th
Griffin’s Bike Night
Grand Rapids Harley-Davidson
2977 Corporate Grove Drive
Hudsonville, MI - (877) 596-6387
April 18
Bacon & Bikes
4405 ABC Harley-Davidson
Highland Road (M-59)
Waterford, MI
Can you ever get enough of FREE
Bacon?? Hot breakfast and Ridein Bike Show. Win awesome door
prizes. (248) 674-3175
April 18
Helmet Exchange
Capitol Harley-Davidson
9550 Woodlane Dr.
Dimondale, MI 48821
517.646.2345
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Receive 20% off a new helmet
with exchange of your used one!
April 25
Polish Palooza
ABC Harley-Davidson
4405 Highland Road (M-59)
Waterford, MI
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
We’re at it again with FREE
delicious Polish Food,
entertainment. Door prizes.
You don’t want to miss this one!
(248) 674-3175
April 25
H-D Demo Days & Ready To Ride
Workshops
Shiawassee Sports Center
11901 South Beyer Road,
Birch Run, MI
(989) 624-4400
April 30
Country Bike Night
Grand Rapids Harley-Davidson
2977 Corporate Grove
Drive
Hudsonville, MI (877) 596-6387
Music, Beer, Food,
Bikes
& You!
21
Old School
SWAP MEETS
presented by
NEW FXRG
JACKETS AND
VENTED
SPORTSWEAR
Able to adapt to every riding
season, the new FXRG jackets
from Harley-Davidson will
keep you cool, dry, warm,
and comfortable
MILWAUKEE (March 2, 2015) – If a rider buys one
jacket, make sure it is the most versatile jacket in
the market. Available in both leather and textile,
the new men’s FXRG® Triple Vent System™
Switchback Jackets from the Harley-Davidson®
MotorClothes® line will handle almost anything
Mother Nature throws at it. Transforming either
jacket begins with the Switchback system of
panels on the sleeves and shoulders that zip-off to
create a mesh jacket. A removable zip-out fullsleeve waterproof liner complements a zip-out
full-sleeve thermal-reflective warmth liner to
adapt to varying conditions. The jacket’s Triple
Vent System includes three zippered vertical
vents on each side that allow customizable
airflow that’s unaffected by backrests or
passengers. The sewn-in, ultra-lightweight CE
Level 1 approved impact protectors at elbows and
shoulders offer added protection, while a back
pocket accepts optional accessory back impact
protectors. A removable, snap-out kidney belt
and six zippered pockets complete the package.
The FXRG TVS Switchback Leather (P/N
98095-15VM, starting at $795) is made from a midweight cowhide leather, while the FXRG TVS
Switchback Riding Jacket (P/N 98094-15VM,
starting at $595) is made from 100 percent 500
denier nylon. Both jackets are available in S – 5XL
and Tall sizes.
Look and feel cool with a new Vented
Performance shirt from the Harley-Davidson
MotorClothes line. To maximize venting and
comfort, the performance shirts incorporate mesh
panels under the arms, inside back yoke and on
the sides that match the vents on H-D Triple Vent
System jackets. The men’s Vented Performance
Skull Shirt (P/N 99034-15VM, starting at $70) and
Vented Performance Flames Shirt (P/N 9903515VM, starting at $70) are made from 100 percent
polyester ripstop
material with
fast-dry, fullwicking
properties
that keep
the body
cool, dry
and
comfortable.
They’re
available
in S – 5XL
sizes.
22
www.midwestmotorcyclist.com
1. Battle Creek
BATTLE CREEK HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
5738 BECKLEY RD, BATTLE CREEK
(269) 979-2233, www.battlecreekharley.com
2. Bay City
GREAT LAKES HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
3850 S. HURON ROAD, BAY CITY
(989) 686-0400, www.greatlakeshd.com
3. Birch Run
SHIAWASSEE HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
11901 N. BEYER ROAD, BIRCH RUN
(989) 624-4400
www.shiawasseeharley-davidson.com
4. Brighton
BRIGHTON HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
5942 WHITMORE LAKE RD., BRIGHTON
(810) 225-2915, www.brightonhd.com
5. Cement City
TOWN & COUNTRY HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
US 12 & US 127, CEMENT CITY
(517) 547-3333, www.cementcity-harley.com
6. Farmington Hills
MOTOR CITY HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
34900 GRAND RIVER AVE., FARMINGTON HILLS
(248) 473-7433, www.motorcityharley.com
7. Fremont
SANDY’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® SPORT CENTER
11940 N. MAPLE ISLAND RD, FREMONT
(231) 924-3020, www.sandysharleydavidson.com
8. Gaylord
ZIP’S 45TH PARALLEL HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
980 S WISCONSIN AVE., GAYLORD
(989) 732-8000, www.zips45thhd.com
9. Hudsonville
GRAND RAPIDS HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
2977 CORPORATE GROVE DR., HUDSONVILLE
(616) 896-0111, www.grandrapidsharley.com
10. Kalamazoo
PERRY’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
5331 SPRINKLE ROAD, KALAMAZOO
(269) 329-3450
www.perryharley-davidson.com
11. Lansing
CAPITOL HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
9550 WOODLANE DRIVE, DIMONDALE
(517) 646-2345, www.capitolhd.com
12. Lapeer
RAY C’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
1422 IMLAY CITY ROAD, LAPEER
(810) 664-9261, www.raycsh-d.com
April 2015
13. Mt. Pleasant
C & S HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
4741 E PICKARD, MT PLEASANT
(989) 772-5513, www.candssportcenter.com
14. Muskegon
HOT ROD HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
149 SHORELINE DRIVE, MUSKEGON
(231) 722-3653, www.hotrodhd.com
15. Sturgis
HAMILTON HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
68951 WHITE SCHOOL ROAD, STURGIS
(616) 651-3424, www.hamiltonharley-davidson.com
Why I Ride a Harley
I’ve been riding since I was 15, starting out on a Yamaha. I rode a Sportster for a while
and then another Yamaha before switching to Harleys exclusively after my kids were
grown. There are lots of reasons I ride a Harley but mostly it’s because of the styling, the
sound and the prestige. My current ride is a 2010 Street Glide but I’m looking to move up
to a 2014 Street Glide Special. I love the new infotainment system and GPS.
Rick Ozello, Battle Creek, Michigan
Member, Brotherhood of the Marine Corps Riders
Member, National Harley Owner’s Group
16. Tecumseh
TECUMSEH HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
8080 MATTHEWS HIGHWAY, TECUMSEH
(517) 423-3333
17. Traverse City
CLASSIC MOTOR SPORTS HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
3939 S BLUE STAR DRIVE, TRAVERSE CITY
(231) 943-9344, www.classictc.com
18. Waterford
A.B.C. HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
4405 HIGHLAND RD (M-59), WATERFORD
(248) 674-3175, www.abc-harley-davidson.com
19. West Branch
GILDNER’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON® MOTORCYCLES
2723 S M-76, WEST BRANCH
(989) 345-1330, www.gildnershd.com
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For more information, visit www.mhdda.com
TM
Midwest Motorcyclist
23
MOTORCYCLE WRECK?
Call the MOTORCYCLE LAWYER!
1-877-BIKER-LAW
WE TAKE AUTO & TRUCK CASES TOO!
Hurt in a crash?
Call Jason Waechter - The Motorcycle Lawyer
1-877-BIKER-LAW
www.TheMotorcycleLawyer.com
Offer Expires 5/30/15