Mid-Atlantic Thunder Roads

OWNER / EDITOR 1920 Centerville Turnpike, Suite 117-270

SALES: Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Office phone: (757) 831-2264
Email:thunderroadskelly@yahoo.com
Kelly Werrell Website: www.thunderroads-virginia.com
Thunder Roads Crew
All of our Correspondents volunteer their time & efforts each month, taking to
the road so they can bring the stories & pictures here for you, the readers, to enjoy.

Sales / Correspondents Correspondents

Beth Albert - Sales Manager DeAna Borza Bo Albert Cindy Mease

thunderroadsbeth@yahoo.com thunderroadsdeana@yahoo.com
Phone: cell (804) 536-1299 (804) 698-9627

Tim Wilmoth Ricky Derby

Ed & Faye Hudnall Matt Allan
thunderroadsedandfaye@yahoo.com National Ad Consultant
(757) 871-8840 - Ed mattallan@wetmountainvalley.us
(757) 871-8839 - Faye (303) 819-5627

Lorree & Randy Kidder Dave Sutton

Garth Hines Linda Barboza

thunderroadsgarth@yahoo.com thunderroadslinda@yahoo.com
(540) 234-9120 or (540) 746-0747 (757) 735-8737

Layout & Design Cathy “Bzgal” Clare Chris “Tigger” Rockhill

WEBMASTER t_uhl@yahoo.com

On Eagle’s Wings Writers SOUNDCHECK

Warren Ells, Art Director MySpace Manager: Rod the Magnificent

Thunder Publishing Ad Design BZgal, Tigger
Stacie Bennett
warrenlayout@yahoo.com Reverend Rock Rick Saunders & Apehanger

Special Thanks to: Warren Ells - our wonderfully talented layout guy who designs our pages & puts all the pieces together for us
each month, Rod The Magnificent - for his killer ad designs & Troy Uhl, our webmaster, who keeps our site rockin on the web. Also
many thanks to all of our readers, advertisers & those of you out there that spread the word or pass a magazine to a friend who’s
never heard of us before - You ALL are what keeps the Thunder rolling through the Mid-Atlantic!

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 2

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Well, the holidays are upon us now folks & this month in CALENDAR OF EVENTS...............................................4
particular (as we should give thanks everyday), we celebrate
Thanksgiving with the gathering of family & friends. We all do have
so much to be thankful for in our lives & even though at one time or
another, we all come across our own misfortunes in life, it’s good
PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN.................................6
to take some time out to count our blessings. A couple of things
that we all should be thankful for is the extended riding season
that we’ve enjoyed for the past couple of years & also, for the HOT SHOTS...................................................................16
wonderful new friends that we’ve met on the road while riding. Our
biking community is filled with so many special people out there.
All through this year, most of us helped make a positive impact on
those who are so much less fortunate than we are, by participating
NEWS BYTES...............................................................28
in charity events/ runs, raising money for needy children, adults,
animals or whatever the cause may have been. If we take a good
hard look at what we really do have, it will help us realize that we CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS.....................................35
truly have been blessed & things aren’t as bad as we may think
they are at times. There will always be someone who has it worse
than we do….always! So, please keep that in mind, especially as
we move into this holiday season, which is always a special time
THE JOKER’S WILD....................................................38
for giving of ourselves. If you can, try to make it out for one of the
Toys For Tots runs or any of the other special events geared up
this time of year that bring thoughts of hope & joy to so many less BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY................................42
fortunate than ourselves.
BE CAREFUL - I’m not sure what’s happening out there, but
I’ve gotten endless reports of riders down & many bike related
tragedies – it’s been unreal. So many people that I know have
READERS RIDES.........................................................44
come face to face with these deadly situations. I have even lost
a couple of friends this past year from injuries sustained when
they wrecked their bikes…I still can’t believe that they’re gone. ON EAGLES WINGS...................................................47
Recently, our own Cathy Claire & her daughter Erin, had a terrible
bike accident & are still recovering – our thoughts & prayers are with
you ladies for a speedy recovery. I too had a crash this summer,
so you just never know what lies ahead out there. Be especially
cautious of the wet leaves on the roadways – they are one of the
most frequent hazards for bikers this time of year. It only takes a
second for anything to happen so PLEASE be extra careful when
hitting the roads. Our clocks turn back an hour Nov 4th & that big
light bulb in the sky goes out late in the afternoon now, so be sure to
pack those clears for all you night riders.
We know that this month kicks off the official Christmas shopping
season too. It’s good to get started now so that you’re not rushing
around next month last minute - plus it will leave more time for you
to get out there & ride. We hope that you all enjoy this beautiful
month of November - safe journeys to & from wherever you may be
traveling to visit family & friends for Turkey Day. Please drop us a line
sometime to say hello or send in some hot shots pics to share some NATIONAL FOUNDERS
of the fun you’re having out there – we’d love to hear from you! May Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon
you have lots of love in your hearts, peace in your lives, good friends 1421 Chapmansboro Road
to share the road with Chapmansboro, TN 37035
& safe travels wherever Office: 615-792-0040 Fax: 615-792-7580
you may roam. . From e-mail: thunderroads@charter.net
all of our Crew here at
Thunder Roads, we’d © THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY
like to wish you all a THUNDER PUBLISHING. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS
safe & enjoyable Happy CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION.
PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE
Thanksgiving! HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OC-
Until we meet again CUPIED BY THE ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL,
next month….Happy FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REA-
Trails! SONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LIABLE,
PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED
USE OF A PERSON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND

Kelly CLAIMS MADE BY ADVERTISERS AND AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN,

AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE POLICY OF THUNDER
ROADS MAGAZINE OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES
NOT PROMOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.
If you’d like your event listed in our
calendar, please drop us a line @
thunderroadskelly@yahoo.com. Be
sure to list your event in the subject
line & then type in the body of the
email, exactly how you’d like your
event to appear (date, name of event,
city/state taking place in & all the
particulars). Our deadlines are the
15th of each month for the following
month’s issue. It’s never too early to
send them in so as soon as you have all
of your info…send it on!
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
NOVEMBER
Nov 3rd
Mid-Atlantic Toy Run - Fort
Washington, MD 5th Annual Mid-
Atlantic Toy Run Saturday, November3,
2007 Harley Davidson of Washington
(301-248-1200) 9401 Livingston Rd
Ft. Wash, MD Registration: 10am -
12:30pm Ride Departure: 1pm Minimum
Donation: $15.00 or gift Certificate/Toy
of equal value Vendors, Food, bikes, cars,
music, 50/50 raffle Info: 301-893-2900
www.fireupthundrout.com Sponsored by
HD of Washington & Biker With Heart
Foundation
Nov 4th
Daylights Savings Time Ends – Fall
Back - Set your clocks back 1 hour!
Dang! Lose an hour of daylight riding
time…
Nov 10th Vietnam Veterans of
America’s 25th Anniversary Parade
- in celebration of the dedication of “The
Wall” on Saturday, November 10, 2007.
If you were there in 1982, you know why
you should be back for the 25th. If you
weren’t there in ’82, then this is the one
to attend, because it is being held by us,
for us. Come feel the healing power of
“The Wall” and show our fallen brothers
and sisters the honor and respect they
deserve. The Opening Ceremony - on
the Mall 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. The
opening ceremony will start at 10:00
a.m. and will take place on the Mall
at 3rd Street, between Jefferson and
Madison Drives. The Parade - 11:00 a.m.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 4
until 4:00 p.m. Immediately following
the opening ceremony, the parade with
thousands of participants, military
vehicles, floats, veteran motorcyclists,
and marching bands steps off. Along
side the reviewing stand will be limited
bleacher seating for those veterans and
members of the general public who
wish to view the parade. Washington
Monument Grounds - 12 noon until 6:00
p.m. Parade participants and the general
public can enjoy a variety of activities
and street vendors. If you have a group,
or as an individual are interested in
joining the parade, then you must fill out
an application form. Call toll free, 1-800-
VVA-1316 x151 or for more info visit
www.vva.org/25thEvent/event_info.htm.
Nov 10th Second Chance Day, at
Harley- David son of Ocean City, MD
Bike Show, Bike Ride, Bike Games, live
music, food and lots of fun. Visit www.
hdoceancity.com for more information
Nov 10th
VETERANS POKER RUN-Virginia
Beach, VA Presented by VIETNAM
VETS M/C, LEGACY VETS M/C and
SECOND BRIGADE M/C. to benefit
Warriors Defense Fund and other veteran
charities. Registration 10am-noon at
POPPAs PUB 2105 Diamond Springs
Rd Virginia Beach, VA 23455 (757) 460-
5061. 5pm Party at KNUCKLEHEADS
Roadhouse 401 N Witchduck Rd Virginia
Beach, VA 23462 (757) 644-6200. Live
Band; door prizes; charity auction; 50/50;
Bike Show(no chrome); info: caveman@
vnvlvmc.com. For more info visit www.
vnvlvmc.com
Nov 10th
2nd Annual Battle of the Bands
Sponsored by: The Prospect Suffolk
Chapter of the Boozefighters. Location:
AJ Gators, Chesapeake Square Mall,
4300 Portsmouth Blvd. Time: 8 pm.
$10 donation or $5 with 2 can goods.
Donation bins located at Aj Gators
Chesapeake Square and Centerville
Turnpike, All Tune & Lube, Reeps
Riders, Fastlane, Draft 29, Tidewater
Motorcycle and Boyce Performance
Cycles. Proceeds benefit the
Southeastern Food Bank.
Nov 10th Scorpions M/C 22nd Annual
Toy Run, Bike Show, and Blood Drive
– Danville, VA The Fraternal Order of
Eagles Lodge Danville, Virginia, located
on Hwy 58 east approx. 7 miles past
city limits. Gates open at 12noon. Days
events: 8 bands starting at 1pm, tattoo
artist, venders, tattoo contest, bike show,
door prizes, 50/50, Southern Xetreme
Championship Wrestling. Proceeds to
benefit the Salvation Army Toys for Tots
Program. Info: 434-432-0456
or 434-836-3590
Nov 11th
York 2007 Motorcycle Swap Meet - York,
PA Presented by Cycle Promotions. 1
day only. Parts, Accessories, Apparel.
For more info call (336) 252-3101 or
visit www.cycleprousa.com
Nov 11th Disabled American Vets
Mobile Services Vehicle at Harley-
Davidson of Ocean City, MD DAV
personnel will be contacted by mail.
Visit www.hdoceancity.com for more
information
Nov 11th 16th Annual Veteran’s
Remembrance Run – Newport News,
VA Sponsored by ABATE of VA, 1st
Capitol Chapter. Sunday, November
11, 2007. Police escorted parade ride,
registration at Newport News YMCA
parking lot, 7827 Warwick Boulevard,
Newport News, VA 23607. Starting
at 11:00 a.m., ride leaves at 1:00 p.m.
Ending at the Hampton Veterans Hospital
with food and music. Special trophy
for favorite bike - chosen by hospital
residents. $10.00 donation for ride -
100% to benefit hospital residents $5.00
donation for food. AMA sanctioned
event. Contact is Gene Spare at
jespare@verizon.net
Nov 16th – 18th 15th Annual Tattoo
Festival – Richmond, VA Holiday Inn
Select Koger Center, 10800 Midlothian
Tpke, Richmond VA. Tattoo Artists from
around the Globe. more info - www.
birdltd.com
Nov 17th Linda Colon Benefit Poker
run and Car, Truck and Bike – Virginia
Beach, VA Presented by Neighborhood
Dreamz and Knuckle Heads Road House
in Virginia Beach Virginia. Blessing of
the bikes at 8:00 at Virginia Beach 911
Dispatch Center, 2508 Princess Anne
Road. Runs ends at Knuckle Heads Road
House at 401 N Witchduck Road. Contact Matt at 757-
240-1290 for more information.
Nov 18th 5th ANNUAL TOY RUN - Sponsored by Pat
Rogers Speedway Harley-Davidson. Proceeds presented
to Cooperative Christian Ministries benefiting The Empty
Stocking Fund. Rain or Shine. Door Prizes, Free Food, Raffles,
Entertainment. Staging Kannapolis Intimidators Stadium 10:00
AM (I-85 N Exit 63, Left on Lane St, 0.4 miles on Right).
Leave Stadium 1:00 PM – Police escort thru Cabarrus County
to Pat Rogers Speedway Harley-Davidson Dealership. Must
bring new, unwrapped toy to participate and be eligible for
door prizes. 704-979-RIDE. Contact: Jan Rummage, E-mail:
jrummage@rogersnc.com. 704-979-RIDE (7433), Website:
www.speedwayharley-davidson.com
Nov 22nd HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!
DECEMBER
Dec 1st
Christmas Open House at Shenandoah HD – Staunton,
VA Sales! Snacks! & Santa! Make sure to get an angel from
our Angel Tree to help make a need child’s holiday special.
Shenandoah HD will be a drop off spot for Toys For Tots,
sponsored by the Marine Corps League.
Dec 8th 7th Annual Sheriff Susan’s Toys for Tots Run
- Currituck,N.C. Saturday December 8, 2007. Registration
begins at 10:30 at Tim Dogs in Moyock, N.C. Ride in starts
at 11:30 am from “Tim Dogs” (Behind Gateway Bank,US 158
Moyock). Ride is Escorted by Sheriff Susan Johnson. Ride
ends at Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant. Pig Pickin, Oyster
Roast, Door Prizes, Live Music. Supported with the help of the
Currituck County Law Enforcement Association.
Dec 15th Wreaths Across America – Richmond, VA We will
meet at Richmond National Cemetery, 1701 Williamsburg
Rd at 9:00am Saturday December 15th, 2007. The first order
of business will be to unload the wreaths from the truck. The
actual ceremony will begin at 12:00 and then we will begin
laying the wreaths. There will be 2500 wreaths to lay. If you
live in the Richmond area and would like to help please feel
free to contact me. Reverend Rock at rjangone@yahoo.com,
or call 804-745-3445. Also visit my website at www.pointman.
homestead.com. To find out more about Wreaths Across
America, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org
Dec 25th MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Dec 29th & 30th Motorcycle Spectacular 2007 – Chantilly, VA
Presented by Cycle Promotions – Dulles Expo & Conference
Center, 4369 Chantilly Center. Saturday 11am – 6pm &
Sunday 10am – 5pm. Admission only $15 per Adult, Kids
under 16 FREE with paid adult. Bike, Builders and Blues.
Compete for Ms. Cycle Pro USA. Bike Show with cash prizes,
People’s Choice Tattoo Contest, Vendor supported Fashion
Show. Live Blues music with The Dennis Peters Band. For
more info call (386) 252-3101 or visit www.cycleprousa.com
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 5
 WHAT IS A VETERAN ?
Some Veterans bear visible signs of their service: a missing limb, a jagged scar, a certain look in the eye. Others may
carry the evidence inside them, a pin holding a bone together, a piece of shrapnel in the leg-or perhaps another sort
of inner steel: the soul’s ally forged in the refinery of adversity.

Except in parades, however the men and women who have kept America safe wear no badge or emblem. You can’t
tell a vet just by looking. What is a Vet?

A vet is the cop on the beat who spent six months in Saudi Arabia sweating two gallons a day making sure the
armored personnel carriers didn’t run out of fuel.

A Vet is the barroom loudmouth, dumber than five wooden planks, whose overgrown frat-boy behavior is out-
weighed a hundred times in the cosmic scales by four hours of exquisite bravery near the 38th Parallel.

A Vet is the nurse who fought against futility and went to sleep sobbing every night for two solid years in Da Nang.

A Vet is the POW who went away one person and came back another-or didn’t come back at all.

A Vet is the drill instructor who has never seen combat-but has saved countless lives by turning slouchy, no-ac-
count punks and gang members into Marines, Airmen, Sailor , Soldiers and Coast Guardsmen , and teaching them
to watch each other’s backs.

A Vet is the parade-riding Legionnaire who pins on ribbons. A Vet is the career quartermaster who watches the rib-
bons and medals pass him by.

A Vet is the three anonymous heroes in The Tomb Of The Unkowns, whose presence at the Arlington National Cem-
etery must forever preserve the memory of all the anonymous heroes whose valor dies unrecognized with them on
the battlefield or in the ocean’s sunless deep.

A Vet is the old guy bagging groceries at the supermarket- palsied now and aggravatingly slow- who helped liber-
ate a Nazi death camp and who wishes all day long that his wife were still alive to hold him when the night-
mares come.

A Vet is an ordinary and yet extraordinary human being, a person who offered some of his life’s most vital years in
the service of his country, and who sacrificed his ambitions so others would not have to sacrifice theirs.

A Vet is a soldier and a savior and a sword against the darkness, and he nothing more than the finest, greatest tes-
timony on behalf of the GREATEST NATION ever known.

So remember, each time you see someone who has served our country, just lean over and say, “THANK YOU”. That’s
all most people need, and in most cases it will mean more than any medal they could have been awarded or were
awarded.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 6

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 7
BALTIMORE/WASHINGTON RIDE
FOR KIDS TOPS $200,000
More than 600 motorcyclists and supporters at the Bal- conferences and college scholarships. With the help
timore/Washington Ride for Kids raised over $200,000 of America’s motorcycling community, the PBTF has
for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation on Sept. 23. become the world’s largest non-governmental source of
It was a clear, sunny day as the police-escorted ride funding for childhood brain tumor research. For more
left The Mall in Columbia, Md., traveling through the information, go to rideforkids.org or call 800-253-6530.
scenic horse country of western Howard County. The
best part of the day, however, came at the end point,
as 10 local brain tumor patients took the stage for the
Celebration of Life program. From 3-year-old Paige to
Katelyn, 19, these “stars” gave the motorcyclists an
emotional connection to the day’s cause.
Dr. Greg Riggins, director of neurosurgery research at
Johns Hopkins, thanked the riders for their hard work.
“Better treatment means fewer side effects,” he said.
“Because of the PBTF and you this is possible.” Rig-
gins was joined on stage by Dr. Roger Packer, head
of the brain tumor program at Children’s Hospital of
Washington, D.C.
The event raised a total of $200,163. The individual
who raised the most was Bob Henig of Jessup, Md.,
who brought $22,741. The Manassas Honda Riders
raised $14,568 to be named the top fundraising club.
The top motorcycle business was Bob’s BMW of Jes-
sup, whose customers raised $47,318. Lisa Frushour
of Myersville, Md., won the grand prize, a new Honda
motorcycle. Special thanks went to the local task force
leaders, Kevin Merrill, Taryn Wilson-Wheatley, Joe
Pruss and Marcy Rich, visitation leader Julie Geery,
and the dedicated task force volunteers. Together they
hosted a terrific day for kids with brain tumors.
ABOUT THE PBTF RIDE FOR KIDS
Since 1984, the national Ride for Kids program and the
Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation (PBTF) have promot-
ed childhood brain tumor research and provided family
support through free literature about brain tumors,
educational newsletters, online

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 8

 Eddie Trotta Gets Thunder Roads
Shouldn’t You?
To get Thunder Roads Magazine In The Mail
Send Check Or Money Order For $39.00
($3.25 - S & H per issue) Made Out To:
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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 9

Full Metal Attraction & Fall Fest September 22, 2007
Judging from the turn out at Grove’s Harley Davidson in Winchester, Virginia I
wasn’t the only one that woke up on Saturday and thought “Today is a great day
for a motorcycle ride”. The sun was bright and the weather was warm, and hun-
dreds of motorcyclists showed up for the Full Metal Attraction & Fall Festival.
My husband bought his first Harley Davidson from Grove’s in 1999. At the time
they were in a nice, but rather small building up the road on Rt. 50 from where
they are now. While they had a beautiful show room with many motorcycles, it
really didn’t compare with the new facilities. The building
they are now located in is huge and filled with motorcy-
cles, accessories, clothing, a parts shop, a service shop,
and even a Café called “The Blend”. Very impressive!
And Grove’s really knows how to throw a party for the
entire family. The Kids Tent included games and races
for the kids, Ambulance tours, Face Painting and several
other activites. There were several vendors, and one
even offered patch sewing. The Scenic Ride headed
out around 11AM with 28 riders and collected $5 from
each to benefit the local SPCA. Coffee and food boothes
made certain we all had full stomaches to enjoy the
performance of the band, No Drama, as they rocked
us through the afternoon. I would be remiss if I did not
mention the outstanding BBQ offered by Big Daddy’s.
Big Daddy can do some cooking – and he serves some
of the best pulled pork barbeque I have ever eaten!
Adults, kids, and even the dogs seemed to enjoy the
entire event. The roads to Winchester offer some beauti-
ful rides. Hop on your bike or jump into your vehicle and
head to Grove’s Harley Davidson on Route 50. And be
sure to check out the website and plan to attend their
next event http://www.hdwinchester.com/

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 10

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 11
It’s WHEN, Not IF…
By Cindy Mease

You don’t have to hold a gun to my head to get me to

admit I’m partial to Raleigh’s Capital City Bikefest. Not
only is it in my front yard, it’s an Event that is growing as
fast as the weeds in my front yard, but with a heckuva lot
more beauty and class.
Kids, y’all need to take notice of this one… it was a third
year event, but it’s the Up and Comer of all Up and Com-
ers… It was a class event from start to finish- and it’s got
the support of a city that is doing all the right things to put
its face on the map in the most positive of ways.
The City of Raleigh should be commended as highly as
the Ray Price Harley-Davidson Team, because they have
been instrumental in the successful building of this event
over the past 3 years. City Officials opened their down-
town to a Bike Event, when most “downtowns” shudder at
the thought. And they’ve been given a tenfold return on
their investment of Trust in Bikers… the event is bringing
dollars and goodwill and an Eye to their town that would
not have been the case if the City were just an idle over-
seer.
The Capital City Bikefest was held September 28-29
in downtown Raleigh- two days of phenomenal weather,
combined with extraordinary planning, vision, and sup-
port from the City of Raleigh. They created an Event that
brought tingles to my bones. ‘Twas a beautiful thing, and
one that can only be adequately described by those who
were there. It was a Family Event and a Biker Event in
one- everything from Stunt Bikes to Nitro Bikes to Show
Bikes to bikes, bikes, bikes!!!! Everywhere. Bikes were Ev-
erywhere. The City of Raleigh was flippin’ overwhelmed
with Bikes on the 29th of September. And we impressed
the HECK out of the citizens of Raleigh with our civility…
;-)
Ray Price is the epitome of a Southern Gent- the man is
the one of the most genuine human beings to ever grace
this earth. He takes great pride in everything he does,
and it shows. His “country store” of Ray Price Harley-Da-
vidson is located about 2 miles from the event, but it was
overwhelmed with bikers and non-bikers throughout the
event, as well. And everyone was welcomed with Ray
and Jean’s Biker Hospitality.
Everything- absolutely everything, was a pleasure to ex-
perience. The City went upside down to keep the streets
organized, clean, and hassle-free. For Bikers????? Yup-
for Bikers.
What did this Event have that was “unique?” Nothing
in particular- it had the typical vendors, great music, great
food, great libations, bike shows, yada yada yada. But
this was a Unique Event… it had a Flair that can’t truly be
described unless you were there. It was Class- through
and through. If you haven’t been there yet- make a point
of getting there next year. Personal opinion- it’s going to
take over the Fall Rally in Myrtle one day soon. It’s THAT
good.
My official “tip of the helmet” to Ray Price and his Team
for a job very, VERY well done.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 12

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 13
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 14
The PANSTER by Tim Wilmouth
Anyone that loves bikes and gets out to the
various rallies and runs around the country
will, in a lifetime, see thousands of custom
motorcycles. Custom paint jobs, wide tires,
low slung frames and stretched front ends
abound but for the most part, it’s just dif-
ferent variations of several basic set ups.
Once in awhile, however, you’ll run across
something that is truly unique. Such is the
case with “The Panster”!
Created by Jeremy Cupp , up in the hills
of western Virginia, this bike will have you
looking at details for hours. Jeremy fused
copper, brass, steel and aluminum into a
piece of rolling artwork that reminisces to
the days of old. Jeremy mated together a
set of custom shovster cylinders and modi-
fied Pan heads to a ’73 sportster, right side
shift, lower end, no easy task. Jeremy told
me that he almost gave up half way through
the project, but with a little help from his
friend and engine master, Tom Stevens of
Independent Cycle and Machine and endless
determination he made it work. The results
speak for themselves.
Jeremy lives in Weyers Cave with his wife
Lindsay and their three children and earns his
living in the family machine shop, where he
started working with his grandfather when he
was just 10 years old. But don’t think this bike
was put together is a big fancy shop. Oh no,
Jeremy assembled this old school beauty in
a stock trailer outside the shop, in the Appa-
lachians, over the course of a winter, a tes-
timony to his belief in working hard and his
determination to do things right.
Jeremy made everything on this bike with
the exception of the Jay Brakes and the tires
and he hopes to start selling custom parts
from his website. So if you have an idea that
you would like to see put into metal, don’t
hesitate to contact him. I have no doubt that
he can do it and firmly believe that it’ll be as
close to perfect as humanly possible. You can
reach this metal artist at theironcanvas@
netzero.net or check out his website at www.
lcfabrications.com.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 15
If you’ve got some “Hot Shot” pictures you’d like to share with us, please send them to thun-
deroadskelly@yahoo.com . Pictures must be high resolution (300 dpi) in order to print clearly.
All are welcome but please keep ‘em somewhat clean so everyone can enjoy!

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 16

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 17
 
Shenandoah Harley-Davidson, Staunton, VA September 15, 2007
Another full day of biker entertainment provided by the
folks at Shenandoah Harley Davidson and Bob Ladd. The
day started with Demo rides, Tattooing, food & beverages,
and a large turn out for the bike show judged by Bike and
Rider productions. To fill in the slow parts of the day, win-
ner of last band standing, “Dyed In The Wool” entertained
the masses. The band kept the music rolling thru the
afternoon while 100 lucky or soon to be lucky participants
tried their hand at a throw of the H-a-r-l-e-y dice and their
chance to win a new 1200 Sportster from Shenandoah
Harley-Davidson/Buell. Next up was the show case of
2008 Harley and Buell models and a side show of extra
chrome. As the day wound down, Bike Show awards
were handed out and as dusk fell, folks pulled out their
lawn chairs and a cold one for the movie “Wild Hogs”
viewed ride-in, drive-in style on the big screen under the
stars. A full day of chrome, music, and fellowship indeed.
-Garth HInz
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 18
 

The event was celebrated in Castellon, Spain. Attendance was at least
2,000 bikes and 3,000 people (accommodation in hotels and biker party
area). I was there with my girlfriend, as usual, I was wearing proudly the
“SCV Mechanized Cavalry” patch. I hope you like these images of Europe.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 19

 Petersburg Fallen Firefighters Benefit
By Richard Lemocks

There comes a time in each of our lives that we have to do something because we know it is the right thing to do
but we don’t really want to have to do it. That is the case within the fire service when one of our comrades gives the
ultimate sacrifice performing his or her job. We don’t want to have a benefit or fundraiser because of a loss but we
know it is the right thing to do. Each year across this great nation, firefighters give their lives doing what they are
trained to do while trying to save someone else from a tragedy.
While we have not had a “Line of Duty Death” within the Petersburg Fire Department in quite a while, there have
been firefighters in the past that were killed while protecting the lives and property of the citizens of Petersburg. To
honor those that gave the ultimate sacrifice, a group of Petersburg Firefighters decided to start collecting money
to erect a monument within the city for their memory. On September 22, 2007, a benefit concert was held in down-
town Petersburg at the Old Towne Civic Center to raise money for the monument. The country band, Honky Tonk
Highway, performed and the evening was a success as the kick-off started for the Fallen Firefighter Memorial. This
will become an annual event and with donations from local businesses, hopefully enough money will be collected in
the near future to complete this worthy cause. We would like to thank Brett Hamilton, Captain- PFD, for starting this
worthy cause. A big Thank You also goes out to Shay, with Shay-B Promotions for helping coordinate the concert.
We hope we never have to add another name to this monument but we want those that have perished to know that
they will never be forgotten.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 20

http://www.speedtrap.org/speedtraps/stetlist.asp
This is interesting. When you get the web site up, click on
the state. Then the next window is a listing of all the cities
in that state. Click on your city and there are the speed
traps listed.

Welcome to the Speed Trap Exchange

You see them everyday, Speed Traps. The police may
be out in the open, hiding behind bridge abutments, or
passing overhead in an airplane. As is obvious from the
traffic flow, the speed limit is grossly under-posted and
universally ignored.
Traffic is moving safely and expeditiously, but not legally
according to the posted speed limit. As fast as the pen can
be applied to paper, driver after driver is issued a speed-
ing ticket that results in exorbitant fines, points on their
driver’s licenses and insurance surcharges.
Fortunately, you know about the speed traps on your
regularly traveled routes, but what about those times you
are on unfamiliar streets and highways? If only there was
a way you could share your knowledge of speed traps, in
exchange for the speed trap knowledge of others. Now
there is.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 21

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 22
RUMBLE THROUGH
THE TUNNELS
October 12th - 14th, 2007
Ride To Honor Our Troops Was All Sunshine And Shine!
Now in its seventh year, “Rumble Through The Tun-
nels” has gained the attention of more and more motor-
cycle riders and non-riders alike. This year the route was
lined with hundreds of well wishers and folks looking to
catch a glimpse of the thousands of shiny chromed-out
motorcycles roaring down the interstates heading toward
the Hampton Roads and Monitor Merrimac Bridge Tun-
nels. If you have never witnessed this parade, it is an
amazing site. Make plans now to see it or ride in it next
year, October 11, 2008!
Fleet Ride “Rumble Through The Tunnels” is the larg-
est escorted motorcycle ride in Southeast Virginia and
was created by Bayside Harley-Davidson to honor and
support the men and woman who so bravely serve our
country. Ride donations and auction proceeds benefit
the Navy’s Moral, Welfare & Recreation Department, the
Navy & Marine Corps Relief Society and the Disabled
American Veterans Mobile Tour.
Perfect weather has consistently blessed this ride and
this year was no exception. Sunshine and cool morn-
ing temperatures brought out thousands of riders. The
waves of bikers were then escorted out of Harbor Park
in Norfolk by Police Motor Officers from Portsmouth ,
Norfolk , Virginia Beach, Newport News and the Virginia
State Police. Road Captains from both Bayside and Kitty
Hawk Harley-Davidson Harley Owners Groups (H.O.G.)
assisted the Officers in providing experienced ride lead-
ership, assuring a safe and enjoyable ride for all. Police
responding to enthusiastic onlookers hit their sirens as
they passed.
Bayside Harley-Davidson in Portsmouth , celebrating
their 10th Anniversary this upcoming year, was the end
destination where a weekend of fun festivities had been
planned.
Rock bands Ms Conduct and Element entertained
while riders found a grand variety of food and beverage
to choose from. The grilled foods from Wood Chicks
BBQ were too good to pass up. Cadbury Schweppes (Dr
Pepper) and BB&T, as platinum sponsors, always help
assure the continuation of this worthy event.
This was the first year Blue Horseshoe Tattoo helped
organize an amazing collaborative art show and auction
in conjunction with the tattoo contest. Talented tattoo
and air brush artists created art on 5 large canvases that
were auctioned off in a flurry of competitive bidding. Ally
Cassorla, Marketing Director for Bayside Harley-David-
son was the lucky bidder for the “Rumble Through The
Tunnels” piece drawn by the very talented Ian Butler of
Blue Horseshoe Tattoo.
The signature bikini contest as well as over 40 vendors
helped round out a weekend of great riding and show of
support for our troops.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 23

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 24
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 25
Ladies Of Harley Christmas Fundraiser
Staunton to Lynchburg, VA
September 23, 2007 - Shenandoah Ladies of
Harley (SLOH) sponsored a ride in the on going
fund raising effort for their Underprivileged
Children’s Christmas Shopping Fund. The SLOH
yearly goal is raising funds to take children
Christmas shopping that may not have a
Christmas present under the tree, and have a
visit from the Harley Santa with lunch . Today’s
event was supported by 200 riders travel-
ing the scenic back roads from Shenandoah
Harley-Davidson to Lynchburg HD for lunch
donated by the brothers and sisters of the
Blue Ridge HOG & LOH Chapter. Jackie Duff,
Shenandoah LOH Director, and her comrades
did an excellent job planning and coordinat-
ing the day’s events and door prizes so folks
could just ride, eat, and enjoy. The afternoon
flew by & before they knew it, it was time for
the riders to saddle up and they all headed for
the scenic tree lined back roads and home to
Shenandoah HD for a 50/50 drawing and a little
relaxing to finish the day.

~ Garth Hines ~

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 26

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 27
 News Bytes
BIKERS PROTEST, PUERTO RICO SUSPENDS CON-
TROVERSIAL NEW LAW A day after being implemented,
the toughest motorcycle law in the country was suspend-
ed by Puerto Rico ’s legislature after bikers protested the
onerous new rules.Among the requirements; riders on the
sun-soaked tropical island must wear gloves, boots and
long pants. In addition to the required riding gear, the law
would also force operators of all two-wheeled motor ve-
hicles, including mopeds and scooters, to wear reflective
vests from 6 p.m. – 6 a.m. The U.S. Territory already has
a helmet law. The new law also slashes the legal Blood Al-
cohol Content (BAC) for motorcycle riders to .02, the same
as for school bus and commercial truck drivers, down from
.08 allowed for car drivers. No one under 18 is allowed to
operate a motorcycle, and no one under 12 is allowed to
ride as a passenger. The Caribbean island also enacted a
tougher licensing process and increased fees for motorcy-
cle endorsements and registrations. Lane-sharing to filter
through heavy traffic is now specifically prohibited. Motor-
cycle and scooter registrations in Puerto Rico have more
than doubled since 2000, and sponsors of the measure
say the tougher regulations are in response to increasing
numbers of accidents and fatalities. Governor Anibal Ace-
vedo Vila signed the bill into law on Wednesday, October
10, amid the roar of hundreds of bikers revving by his San
Juan residence in protest, and on Thursday the legislature
moved to temporarily suspend the new law. The Senate
unanimously backed a moratorium on the law until Feb.
18, and the House approved plans to delay its implemen-
tation for at least three months, as legislators told the As-
sociated Press they need more time to consult scooter and
motorcycle enthusiasts who object to the stricter rules.
BIKERS BLOCK BIKE BAN Scores of angry bikers
packed into city council chambers October 16th to protest
a proposed ban on motorcycles in a fashionable section
of downtown Delray Beach in southern Florida, and in the
end most of them came away happy. After hearing testimo-
ny and acrimony from the crowd of leather-clad activists,
city officials instead voted unanimously to amend a noise
abatement law already in place that would place stiff fines
on noisy motorcycles. They also decided to commission a
study to find out how much of the noise on Atlantic Avenue
can be blamed on motorcycles and hope to have results
in 90 days. The proposed ordinance would have prohib-
ited motorcycles from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. on five blocks of
shops and restaurants along Atlantic Avenue , in response
to numerous complaints about noisy motorcycles cruising
the cafe-lined corridor. Mayor Rita Ellis had said the ban
was necessary because the city’s noise control ordinance
was unenforceable downtown, where officers on foot pa-
trol can’t easily chase after violators, but the measure drew
outrage from the motorcycle community both locally and
across the country. “I feel Delray Beach is infringing on my
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 28
rights,” said Jimbo Sherrow of the motorcycle rights group
ABATE of Florida, Inc. “There is a state statute that says
they cannot do this.”After some deliberation, City Commis-
sioners put a call out to motorcycle clubs and associations
for help in trying to figure out a solution without resorting to
an outright ban on motorcycles.
ARIZONA TOWN NOT SO CARE FREE ABOUT NOISE
Carefree, Arizona has been on the bikers’ radar screen
for their controversial noise ordinance, but now the Town
Council has voted unanimously to lower speed limits on
its main thoroughfare, and elevate noise infractions for
first-time offenders from a civil citation to a Class 1 mis-
demeanor and possible jail time. The changes take effect
in November and targets motorcycles that exceed an 85-
decibel noise limit. Instead of a $175 ticket, violators can
be fined as much as $2,500 and sentenced to up to 180
days in jail. In addition to beefing up punishment to crack
down on noisy bikes, the council also voted to reduce the
speed limit on Cave Creek Road , the gateway between
Phoenix and bars in downtown Cave Creek, from 35mph
down to 25mph.
CONGRESS FORMS MOTORCYCLE CAUCUS The U.S.
House of Representatives has formed a motorcycle safety
caucus, and riders are urged to contact their motorcycle-
friendly Reps and ask them to join. A caucus is a group
within a legislative body that is assembled to represent a
specific interest or influence a particular area of policy. The
motorcycle caucus will focus on ways that Congress can
improve and advance motorcycle safety efforts. To become
part of this first-ever motorcycle safety caucus, interested
House members should contact either caucus co-chairs,
Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) or Michael Burgess (R-TX). Gif-
fords, a freshman member of Congress and an avid mo-
torcycle rider herself, said “We know from national studies
that in almost two-thirds of fatal car/motorcycle crashes,
the fault was with the driver of the car. We can do more to
address this critical problem, and public education is a key
to bringing about awareness and a reduction in such ac-
cidents.” Burgess is a long time supporter of motorcycling
who said he is looking forward to working with motorcy-
clists across the country on motorcycle safety, education
and awareness issues.
MORE AMERICANS BUCKLE UP AND WEAR HELMETS
A new focus on motorcycle safety and increased efforts to
encourage seatbelt use are paying off, according to U.S.
Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters, who said new
figures released recently show the national seat belt use
rate increased to an all time high and more motorcyclists
are wearing their helmets. According to the annual National
Occupant Protection Use Survey (NOPUS), an additional
three million more Americans wore seat belts last year as
 News Bytes
seat belt use rose to 82.4%, an increase of 1.2 percent-
age points. Additionally, the survey showed that motor-
cycle helmet use increased 7 percentage points to 58%.
NHTSA Administrator Nicole R. Nason told a national
highway safety conference in Portland, Oregon, that the
new data shows the greatest rise in motorcycle helmet
use occurred in the South, which rose by 13 percentage
points to 58%. Helmet use rose by 11 percentage points
in the Northeast to 58% and by 5 percentage points in the
West to 77%. However, helmet use fell by 1 percentage
point in the Midwest to 49%. “Motorcycle safety is a prior-
ity at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
and we are looking at all options to reduce motorcycle
fatalities,” said Nason.
MOTORCYCLES TO REMAIN LESS THAN 100 HP IN
FRANCE Bad news for French motorcycle riders. The
almighty and powerful European Commission has ruled
that France is in its legal rights to limit motorcycle power
to 100 horsepower. The French Association of Angry Bik-
ers (FFMC -- Federation Francaise des Motards en Cole-
re) sued the French state and took them to the European
courts. Apparently, having uniform laws in Europe only
apply to anything except motorcycles, said the FFMC
about the ruling. The EC stated that each country could
impose their own restrictions. The FFMC countered that
an extensive study by Dutch TNO showed no correla-
tion between accidents and motorcycles with more power
than 100 H.P. So riding in France on a French-registered
motorcycle means you can only have 100 H.P., while any-
one else riding in France can ride whatever they want, on
the same road, with the same traffic, and cars are not
included in the restriction. The FFMC vows that they are
not going to let this go…stay tuned!
BIKER HAS DIFFICULTY GETTING LICENSE REIN-
STATED Howard Burley loves his Harley-Davidson.
That’s exactly why the Arizona biker hasn’t owned a car
in more than a decade. “You love the feel -- the vibrations
and stuff like that,” he told 3TV reporter Gary Harper of 3
On Your Side. But last year, Burley was arrested for drunk
driving. It was a huge mistake, but he said he learned
from it, and even claims the DUI has made him a better
man these days. “Absolutely. I quit drinking. I go through
alcohol classes. It was definitely a wake up call,” he said.
Burley served jail time, paid all of his court costs and fines
and said he’s cleaned up his life. The only thing he wants
now is for his driver’s license to be reinstated by Motor
Vehicle Division. To do that, MVD said all he has to do is
install an ignition interlock device. Drivers have to blow
into it at random times to make sure they’re not drinking
while they’re driving. If the driver has been drinking, the
device prevents the car from starting up. “The only prob-
lem is they do not put them on motorcycles,” Burley said.
And a motorcycle is all that Burley owns. If he wants to get
his license back, he said MVD told him he’ll have to buy a
car. Organizations like the Arizona Confederation of Motor-
cycle Clubs say Burley’s situation is a good example of mo-
torcycle discrimination. “It’s another way the government
is forcing you into something you don’t want to do,” said
Steven Musgrave with the Arizona Confederation of Motor-
cycle Clubs. Although some states do allow motorcycles to
have the device, Arizona does not. For now, the state said
it’s not planning on using the device on motorcycles. Burley
said he and numerous motorcycle organizations that lobby
lawmakers are monitoring the situation to see if changes
might be made in the future. In the meantime, he’s resorted
to taking the bus and can only hope the MVD will change
its mind.
HBO ANNOUNCES BIKER TV The pay cable network gi-
ant is working with bikers to beef up its lineup. HBO, which
is building a new stable of drama series following the de-
parture of heavyweights “The Sopranos” and “Six Feet
Under,” has greenlighted a project from Oscar-nominated
writer Michael Tolkin. Tolkin’s “1%,” which hails from Man-
agement 360’s TV division, is set in the world of biker clubs.
“A 1% tattoo has been considered a badge of honor for
biker club members symbolizing life on the fringe of Ameri-
can society,” reported the Washington Times. “It refers to a
statement put out 50 years ago by the American Motorcycle
Assn. that said clubs don’t represent the legitimate motor-
cycle community but the 1% who are a threat to the Ameri-
can way of life.” Tolkin penned “1%” and is exec producing
the pilot with Management 360’s Alex Hertzberg and Guy-
mon Casady.
WEIRD NEWS: PORK OR HOG, THIEVES CHOOSE
THE OTHER WHITE MEAT Thieves in China are stealing
pork because the staple meat has become so expensive.
A Shenzhen newspaper reported that a pork seller was
knocked off his motorcycle by robbers who stole his load
of over 200 pounds of pork, but left his motorcycle in the
road. He was on his way to a market in Shenzhen, just over
the border from Hong Kong , when four men jumped from
a mini-bus and threatened him with knives. The pork was
worth 2000 yuan more than the motorcycle.
QUOTABLE QUOTE: “I don’t know.”
Alexander Kuzmin, the 33-year-old Russian mayor of Me-
gion in Siberia, has banned 25 phrases such as this as
a way to make his administration more efficient, and bu-
reaucrats who say “I can’t,” or “It’s not my job” can look for
another job.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 29
WORTH A SHOT ... Every month, we’re going to
recommend a brand NEW item at your grocer’s, that
we feel is “worth a shot” and deserved of your consid-
eration and taste buds. We don’t receive any kick for
the endorsement, we just want to make your life easier
and tastier. These are all products that have been
sampled for, most importantly, their taste; but also their
portions, simplicity in preparation, and they must be
cost friendly.
BETTY CROCKER’S WARM DELIGHTS
Sometimes (especially during “certain” times of the
month, I get a chocolate craving that can only be
classified as junkie-ish, and I must satisfy it. These
little bowls are marketed as “you’re just 3 minutes
from Heaven”. They’re not exaggerating. Simply
add water, nuke, let cool, top with ice-cream or your
favorite whipped frosting and settle in for any one of
the brand new C.S.I.’s. And with flavors such as Hot
Fudge Brownie, Molten Chocolate, Molten Caramel
and Chocoalte Rasberry Decadence, your taste buds
will surely be doing the Snoopy Happy Dance. Comes
in “mini” sizes too for those of you who actually have
a chocolate conscience (of which I can only say better
you than me.) Cost: $2. bucks a bowl.
SUPER SIMPLE THUNDER STUFFING
2 Boxes of Stove Top Stuffing; Cornbread Style
1 Large Container of Sliced, Fresh Mushrooms
1 Large Sweet Onion, Large Chop
3 Stalks of Fresh Celery; Medium Chop
1 Can of Chicken Stock
We run this recipe every holiday because everyone
requests it and it’s super simple to make and tastes
like it took all day. Sauté your shrooms, onion, & celery
in 1/4 of butter. Make your Stove Top according to box
directions, but substitute chicken stock for water. When
you add mix to boiling stock, remove from stove and
sauté mixture and the remainder of butter. Moisten all
crumbs. Let stand 5 min. and then toss gently. Simple
& Scrumptious!
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 30
ART SMITH’S (Oprah’s Chef) GOAT CHEESE
DROP BISCUITS
2 Cups Self-Rising Flour
2 tsp. Baking Powder
1/2 tsp. Baking Soda
1 tsp. Salt
4 Tbls. (2 ozs.) Cold Butter
4 Tbls. Goat Cheese
1 Cup Buttermilk
Extra butter to grease pan and top biscuits
1/4 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Place one 10-inch cast
iron pan into the oven while it is preheating. Place flour,
salt, baking soda and baking powder into a medium-
sized bowl. Cut in the butter & goat cheese. Make a
well in the middle of the ingredients and pour in the
milk. Stir until the mix is moistened, adding an extra
Tbls. of milk if needed. Remove the hot skillet from
oven and place a Tbls. of butter into it. When butter
has melted, drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter into the pan,
(use a muffin scoop to drop the batter if you have one).
Brush the tops of the dropped biscuits with melted
butter. Bake apprx. 15 min. until golden browned on
top & bottom. Remove from oven & sprinkle w/ grated
cheese. Serve warm. OMG! These are the best bis-
cuits I’ve ever tasted! Make these for Thanksgiving and
folks will rave. Substitute the Parmesan cheese for
Sharp Cheddar if you’re not a Parmesan fan.
PHILLY CHEESY CHILI DIP
1 Pkg. Philadelphia Cream Cheese; Softened
1 Can of your favorite brand of Chili
1/2 Cup of Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
2 Tbls. Chopped Cilantro
Spread cream cheese onto bottom of glass pie plate,
bringing it up the sides. Top with can of chili and ched-
dar cheese. Nuke on High for 45 seconds to 1 minute
or until cheddar cheese is thoroughly melted. Sprinkle
w/ cilantro on top. Serve w/ a bag of Frito Scoops to
get all you can! Yummy.
FROM OUR THUNDER ROADS FAMILY TO
YOURS; GIVE THANKS & COUNT BLESSINGS.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 31
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 32
AHDRA
Valerie Thompson Racing
Valerie’s First AHDRA WIN!! part to get the GoDaddy.com/Hacienda Harley-Davidson
V-Rod Destroyer go fast. “Sometimes it’s a $2 part that
Go Daddy & Hacienda HD Girl Valerie Thompson takes breaks and puts you in the trailer and sometimes it’s
home the WIN in the V-Rod Destroyer class in the All Har- more. In either case its part of racing and when you’re
ley Drag Racing Association (AHDRA) in North Carolina done you’re done” said Valerie. “I was paired up against
at the Farmington Motorsports Park September 16, 2007. good friend Nate Miller, until he got to the starting line that
is. I cut a good light and the next thing I knew the bike
“The team did was on its face and
a great job all I was heading for
weekend and the my beautiful trailer”
bike was extremely Valerie added. The
fast” said Valerie. bike however was
The race event, the heading to the doc-
March of Dimes tor and where bike
“Bikers for Babies” sponsor Hacienda
charity was for a Harley-Davidson and
great cause. Val- Owner Rick Hatch
erie and the team will do their part in
enjoyed being in making the bike
the winners circle ready for the next
and left feeling event.
confident they were Happening Soon
going to be fast the
next week in Rich- On October 13 and
mond, VA at Vir- 14 the team will be
ginia Motorsports in Rockingham, NC
Park presented by with our new motor
Colonial Harley-Da- and much needed
vidson on Septem- testing. Then on
ber 21-23, 2007. November 9 and 10
it’s off to Pomona, CA. We will give you the details in the
Special thanks go out to Brannon White, Jay Turner and next article.
Bryan Fox for their help and sportsmanship when Valer-
ie’s bike had computer issues and also the AHDRA for
putting on this important event. Valerie and the team send a special thanks
to their sponsors:
VTR #2 Qualifier at the AHDRA - S&S Jim McClure Na-
tionals GoDaddy.com
Hacienda Harley-Davidson
Next the team was off to Richmond, Virginia for the S&S Independent Cycles Inc.
Jim McClure Nationals. Going in the team was excited MAC Tools
and why not? They were going in after receiving a land- Screamin Eagle Designs
speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats and were the D.M.E. Racing
overall event winner of the last AHDRA event. MTC Engineering
Red Line Oil
The story last year was a busted transmission and on The Real Security
the trailer they went. Guess what? It happened again Phoenix Bikers.com
but this time Valerie was the #2 qualifier and was look- Bikernet.com
ing for some serious points. Disappointed as she was, AHDRA
Valerie was proud of her team and the great job Crew Outlaw Fuel
Chief Mickey Eddinger and Tuner Matt Gross did on their
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 33
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 34

MASTER CLUB LISTING
ABATE of Virginia welcomes all riders to join in the fight to protect your rights. No
matter what you ride, we want YOU! For more info contact Douglas Findlay at 202-
250-0799 or ABATEofVA@gmail.com. Stay on top of the latest ABATE news and
events by visiting www.ABATEofVA.com .
ABATE Coalfield Riders Chapter
meets 7pm every 3rd Sunday at Little Big Horn Steak House, in Deel Fork, Grundy,
VA 24614. Everyone welcome. For more information contact Steve Stacy at 276-
935-2484 or sstacy@eqt.com.
ABATE Culpeper Chapter
meets 7pm every 2nd Thursday at Al’s Bar in Culpeper, VA(call for address).
Everyone welcome. For more information contact Wayne Stephens at 540-937-
5568 or ABATE@earthlink.net.
ABATE First Capitol Chapter
meets 9am every 1st Sunday at Moose Lodge 757, 5429 Richmond Rd,
Williamsburg VA 23188. Everyone welcome. For more info contact Gene Spare at
757-369-0755 or 1st_Capitol@widomaker.com.
ABATE Iron Horse Cavalry Chapter of Lynchburg & surrounding counties
meets 7pm every 1st Tuesday at Mary Jane’s Café, (Kemper Street Station)
Lynchburg VA Everyone welcome. Coordinator Tony Tronco (434) 944-1177
ABATE Lonesome Pine Chapter
meets 6:30pm every 1st Tuesday at Mosby’s Restaurant, 205 Ridgeview Rd, Wise
VA 24293. Everyone welcome. For more info contact Shag Meade at 276-565-
4541 or shagedawg@hotmail.com.
ABATE Mason-Dixon Chapter
meets 8pm every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at John’s Place, 11104 Lee Hwy, Fairfax VA
22030. Everyone welcome. For more information contact Bob Seoane at 703-206-
0571 or 703-309-6605 or NightTommy2@yahoo.com.
ABATE Olde Dominion Chapter
meets 8pm every 1st Monday at JV’s Restaurant, 6666 Arlington Blvd, Falls
Church, VA. Everyone welcome. For more info contact Nick Mursin at 301-633-
0917 or nmursin@hotmail.com.
ABATE River City Chapter
Starting Saturday, July 7 we will meet at Talons (11800 Hull Street Rd., about 1 mile
east of Rt. 288) on the first Sat. of each month at 11am. Everyone welcome. For
more information contact Steve Skeens at 804-389-8293 or Hawgske@msn.com.
ABATE Virginia Cruisers Chapter
meets 1pm every 1st and 3rd Sunday at Moose Lodge # 1119, 2307 60th St,
Hampton VA 23661. Everyone welcome. For more info contact Donald Cournoyer,
757-723-2019 or RDevilsDlite@verizon.net.
American Cruisers Motorcycle Club Chapter 54 - Chesapeake, VA
President Jack Wright (757) 465-8578, Ruddfan4life@cox.net www.
americancruisers.us
American Cruisers Motorcycle Club Chapter 57 - Va. Beach,Va.
President Brian Brooner, E-Mail brooner1@cox.net
Army of The Lord, Virginia (Virginia Beach) Christian Riding Group
Meets 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. 7:30 pm
Overseer: Rich “Sluggo” Segarra 757-450-4190
sluggo@armyofthelordva.org
www.armyofthelordva.org
Bayside Hog – Meets 7pm on 3rd Friday at Bayside Harley-Davidson
Outer Banks HOG – Meets 2pm, 1st Saturday at Outer Banks Harley-Davidson
Bikers with Heart Foundation, Inc.
501 ©3 Non-Profit Organization, National Fallen Biker Memorial Weekend, P.O.
Box 291 Bryantown, MD 20617, Office: (301) 893-2900 Email: bikerswithheart@
yahoo.com
Website: www.fireupthundrout.com/bikerswithheart
Motto: We Ride Because We Care
Blue Knights Virginia Chapter III
Richmond, VA (804) 379-0578
Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA Chapter V – Hampton Roads
Meets 4th Wed every month 7 pm, 110 Kempsville Rd, Chesapeake, VA
Club President – Susan Taylor (757) 531-1224
blueknightsva5@yahoogroups.com
http://members.bellatlantic.net/~vze4sw29/bkva5.htm
Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA VII
www.bkvavii.org
Pres. George A. Cipra
Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA VIII
Meets on 1st Wed at the Charlottesville FOP Lodge
Info: Willie Barnett (804) 589-1824
Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA Chapter X
Yorktown, VA www.blueknightsvax.com
Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA XIII
Danville, Virginia meets on 13th of every month Club President - Keith Johnson
www blueknightsvaxiii.com
Blue Ridge Christian Riders CMA Chapter 264
Meets 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30pm Roanoke Valley Harley-Davidson
dealership. Contact: Steve Lemay (540) 721-1969, Graffan Reynolds (540) 588-
6191, Dave Miller (540) 362-3962
Club Directory
Bone Shaker’s Social Club ( BSSC) Rolling Thunder® Inc. - Chapter 4 VA
We meet the first Tuesday of each month at Boneshaker’s Saloon, 1297 Meets 3rd Monday every month @ Moose Lodge #715, located at 2307
General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. All meetings are open to Lakeside Dr., Lynchburg VA. Public welcome.
the public and all are welcome. P.O.Box 3077, Virginia Beach, Va 23457 Website: www.rollingthunderch4va.com
(757) 961-8382
Rolling Thunder,® Inc. - VA Chapter 5
Buell Owners in the DC area Meetings are held every 2nd Sunday of the month @ American Legion, Post 2, 820
Meets 1st Sat, 10 am at H-D Winfield Road, Petersburg, VA 23803Mike Walton, President (804) 640-1333
Castaways Riding Club - Tidewater, VA Shenandoah Valley HOG
Meets 3rd Weds of the month. Wherever your mind wonders…ride after it! Monthly meeting @ Verona, Va. Moose alternates 2nd Sunday next month 2nd
www.castatwaysrc.com or email tailgunjoe@cox.net Tuesday. hog hotline (540) 946-9992, www.shenandoahhog.com
Central Virginia Chapter of the Victory Motorcycle Club Sisters of Chrome Women Motorcycle Club/Maryland
Bill Robinson, Chapter President Women Content to grabbing the handlebars and steering our own motorcycles.
Email: wrr1home@comcast.net www.sistersofchromemc.com . Contact Sugar Bear – sistersofchrome@aol.com or
Cell: (804)339-3784 Home: (804) 737-7910 (410) 477-5557.
Central VA Trail Riders SONS OF THUNDER MOTORCYCLE MINISTRIES
Meets 7 pm on 1st & 3rd Tues. 1509 Chesapeake Ave, Chesapeake, VA 23324 www.sonofthundermm.com
At a Richmond Rest. Info: (804) 272-8038 peglegjoe@verizon.netWe meet every first Saturday of each month at thunder alley
Call for directions 757-543-1857 or 757-619-4073. Also we have JC’S Fellowship
Christian Motorcyclist Association Northern Virginia Chapter 348 Church where bikers are welcome. Come as you are – meeting place: Thunder Alley.
www.nvcrcma.com NVCR meets 3rd Sat each month @ Old Country Buffet in Times: Sunday 9 am & 6 pm; Wed. 7 pm; Thurs.(Recovery Program) 7 pm. All our
Manassas runs go to JC’S Recovery House – All people that we help through this house are by
@ 9:00 am, President – Rick Saunders, nvcrmail@msn.com application and acceptance based on they’re desire for help.
CMA/Beacons of Tidewater (Hampton Roads area)
Meets 2nd Monday of each month, except Dec. @ Piccadilly Restaurant, 530 The Southern Cruisers Riding Club - Hill City Chapter of Lynchburg, Va. Meets
N. Military Hwy, Norfolk, VA (across from the Dump). President, Lenny Stowell, the second Wednesday of every month @ Vinny’s Italian Restaurant @ 7:00pm.
lenand2girls@cox.net or (757) 420-4411. Please contact the following if interested. Phil Stanley-First Officer @ jacker7@
verizon.net. Rhonda Moyers, Second Officer: rmoyers@verizon.net. Please visit
CMA/Blue Ridge Christian Riders (Roanoke area) our web site www.hillcitycruisers.com
Meets 3rd Mon. at RVHD 1925 Peters Creek Rd, Roanoke, VA
Info: (540) 588-6191 Southern Cruisers - Nelson County, VA Chapter #172 Contact Rhonda Ponton,
1st Officer, (434) 531-5820 or Pete Avellone at (434) 531-7916
Concours Owners Group
COG – Northeast Area www,concours.org/ne
Mid-Atlantic Region Luray, VA #1887 Southern Virginia American Legion Riders
Patrick Sprague (540) 743-4874 We are open to all bikes & all Veterans’ & family members of Veterans. P O Box 57
Email: psprague@shentel.net Colonial Heights, VA 23834, (804) 526-4167, email: herbiewms@netscape.com
Down By Law 757 MC Club
Star Touring & Riding Chapter 188
www.downbylaw-mc.com President – “Quiet Storm”
5461 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 http://vbstar.mav.net email:
Email: quietstormzx9@aol.com
ccnkcstarriders@aol.com, contact Lisa Laufer @ (757) 646-6738 or (757)646-6734
Llaufer1@cox.net
EZRR Club, Inc. Richmond, VA
Info: (804) 932-4784/www.riders-inc.com
Star Touring & Riding Chapter 208 - Richmond, Va
Meets the 3rd Thursday each month, check the website for more info.
GWRRA chapter K of Roanoke
http://startouring.org/chapter208/ Contact: Bob Gagne (804)458-4759 or
Meets 3rd Thursday, Holiday Inn Airport
rjgagne1106@adelphia.net
Web address: http://www.communities.msn.com/GWRRAVAK
Chapter Directors: Jerry & Linda Hall (540) 387-0897
STAR touring and riding chapter 260 Winchester VA, meets 2nd Saturday,
9am at Golden Corral in Winchester,VA on 522. 4th Sunday rides also. Email:
GWWRA Chapter D of Richmond VA
starchapter260@yahoo.com for info
2236 Cedar Crest Rd. Richmond, VA 23235
TAMA – TIDEWATER ALBEMARLE MOTORCYCLE ASSOCIATION. ALL clubs
GWTA THE LOONEY TOON RIDERS
or any organization that hosts rides/events are welcome to attend. Come out & meet
Meets at 460 Western Sizzlin, 2nd Sat each month at 2 pm
some good people from all around the area. We’re all working together so that each
For more info call (540) 265-2986
one our rides/events can be scheduled not to conflict with others & then we can all
have a successful turnout. Our meetings are held @ 7PM on the 3rd Thursday of
Hampton Roads Southern Cruisers Riding Club Chapter #26
every month (except December) at the Golden Corral, on the corner of Volvo Pkwy &
Website http//bikers.crusading.org/ “Cruiser” Mosher 1st Officer HRSC
Battlefield Blvd in Chesapeake, VA
Curzer1500@yahoo.com
Virginia Bikers Association Inc.
Heaven Bound Bikers
P. O. Box 1591, Hillsville, VA 24343, www.vabikersassoc.org, email: director@
Meets 2nd Sat. each month 9am riders in South Hill (434) 372-3785 a great ride after
vabikersassoc.org
each meeting
Virginia Freedom Riders
Heaven’s Saints Motorcycle Ministry
P O Box 1387, Suffolk, VA 23439-1387 www.vfr.race.com President: Bernie Adams
4181 Worsham Rd. Powhatan, Va 23139 (804) 598-9026; rodneyrides@juno.com
Email: Bernie@vfr-race.com Membership Officer: Sandy Cartwright email:
www.heavenssaints.com
sandy@vfr-race.com
Honda Riders Club (HRC), Appalachian M/C
V MAX Owners Association
Meetings & open rides on 4th Sundays, 11 am at Loudoun Motorsports in
Eric Ellerman- Regional Director, 8009 Robincrest Ct., Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
Leesburg, VA Info: (703) 777-1652
(919) 567-1991 home, (919) 244-4660 cell, 150*132514*24 Nextel Direct Connect
Jimmy Rey - Chapter Leader Virginia/District of Columbia, 5901 Atteentee Rd
Honda Riders Club (HRC)
Springfield, VA. 22150-3906, Day: 703-560-0600 x 15, Cell: 703-618-2333
Manassas Honda Rider’s Club Meets 1st Tues 7:30 pm Stonewall Jackson VFD
Tony Waterman - Charlotte, NC Chapter Leader, 6144 Roseway Ct., Harrisburg , NC.
7814 Garner Road, Manassas, VA Info: (703)361-2233
28075-6509, Eve: 704-454-5753
Indian Riders Group
Williamsburg Riders MC Club
VA Beach Indian Riders Info: (757)449-6017 www.vabirg.com
We meet at the Capitol Pancake and Waffle House at 800 Capitol Landing Road,
Williamsburg, VA on the 2nd Sunday of each month (except May which is on the 2nd
Iron Horse Ministries
Sat. due to Mother’s day) at 9am for breakfast & leave by 10 am (unless earlier time
Meets the last Friday of every month at 7:00pm; room 235 in the LCA
is set by ride leader). We are usually headed off for a ride of about 75 – 300 miles
building at Thomas Road Baptist Church on Candlers Mountain Rd. in
depending upon the weather and who shows up to ride. The club is open to all
Lynchburg VA. We also have a Biker Bible Study every Sunday morning
makes of motorcycles and all abilities are welcome. Contact John Heckman www.
at 9:30 in the same room. For more information contact Pastor Steve
williamsburgriders.org
at email@ironhorseministries.org or call him at (530)305-4095.
Wings Over History
LadyRiders, Inc. Motorcycle Club - Northern Virginia Area
Gold Wing Road Riders Assoc.
Meets 2nd Monday of the month, schedules rides 4th wked of month
Appalachian Region N. Virginia District Georgia & Ken Sladak, Directors, 9612
See www.ladyriderinc.com or write luv2ride@ladyriderinc.com
Alfaree Rd., Richmond, VA 23237
Queen Beez Motorcycle & Social Association
Women on Wheels
www.queenbeezmsa.com P O Box 35396
www.womenonwheels.org NOW FORMING VA CHAPTER Call (800) 322-1969 or
Richmond, VA 23235 info@queenbeezmsa.com
email: Ironheadbiker@yahoo.com
Richmond Riders
www.richmondriders.com 2nd Sunday every month meets for Bikes in the Bottom
9:30am Poe’s Pub on Main St. Contact Jason webmaster@richmondriders.com
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 35
 The Vest
A poem by: Larry Ouellette

Patches cover a biker’s vest,

From the neckline to the tail.
Writing a story of his life at best,
And the trials met along life’s trails.

Some may show his warrior heart,

Others remembering friends gone by.
Political statements are also a part,
Alas this story misses the non- biker’s eyes.

Leather – clad people who pass you by,

Greeted only with nervousness
and quick stares.
Are out escorting heroes home on their rides,
Back to their loved ones who truly care.

You never see our arrival at home,

Where we also have families and lives.
Nor our rides collecting money and toys,
To enlighten underpriviledged children’s
Christmas morning eyes.

We also take care of brothers

and sisters who are down,
By riding things called poker runs.
No matter the weather
our bikes will abound,
Pouring rain or blazing sun.

The next time we approach

a hello or smile would be nice,
A thank you would be the best.
For another human heart is in sight,
Beating proudly beneath that vest.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 36

 YUASA ANNOUNCES
“WINNER’S CHOICE” SWEEPSTAKES
GRAND PRIZE WINNER
LAURELDALE, Pa., August 17, 2007 – Yuasa Battery
Inc., the leading manufacturer of batteries for pow-
ersports vehicles, has announced that David Martell
of Chesterville County, Va., won the Yuasa Battery
“Winner’s Choice” Sweepstakes.

Keith Odermann, President of Yuasa Battery, Inc.,

congratulates Yuasa Sweepstakes Grand Prize Winner,
Redneck Pet Carrier
David Martell, seated, on winning the Arctic Cat Prowler
XT650H1 as Susan Watkins, owner of Watkins Outdoor
Products, Inc. in Colonial Heights, Va., looks on.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 37

 The Joker’s Wild
Larry gets home late one night and, Linda, his
wife says, “Where in the hell have you been?” Larry
replies, “I was out getting a tattoo.” “A tattoo?” she
frowned. “What kind of tattoo did you get?” “I got a
hundred dollar bill on my privates,” he said proudly.
“What the hell were you thinking?” she said, shaking
her head in disgust. “Why on earth would an accoun-
tant get a hundred dollar bill tattooed on his privates?”
“Well, one, I like to watch my money grow. Two, once
in a while I like to play with my money. Three, I like
how money feels in my hand. And, lastly, instead of
you going out shopping, you can stay right here at
home and blow a hundred bucks anytime you want.”
(Larry is presently recovering in room 233 at the local
hospital).
Anna had lost her husband almost four years ago
and her daughter was constantly calling her and
urging her to get back into the dating world. Finally,
Anna said she’d go out, but didn’t know anyone. Her
daughter immediately replied, “Mom! I have someone
for you to meet.” Well, it was an immediate hit. They
took to one another and after dating for six weeks, he
asked her to join him for a weekend in Vermont. Their
first night there, she undressed as he did. There she
stood nude, except for a pair of black lacy panties. He
was in his birthday suit. Looking her over, he asked,
“Why the black panties?” She replied: “My breasts
you can fondle, my body is yours to explore but down
there I am still mourning.” He knew he was not getting
lucky that night. The following night was the same.
She stood there wearing the black panties and he
was in his birthday suit but now, he was wearing a
black condom. She looked at him and asked: “What’s
with the black condom?” He replied, “I want to offer
you my deepest condolences!”
DEAR MADAM:
THANK YOU FOR YOUR RECENT ORDER FROM
OUR SEX TOYS SHOP. YOU ASKED FOR THE
LARGE RED VIBRATOR AS FEATURED ON OUR
WALL DISPLAY. PLEASE SELECT ANOTHER ITEM.
THAT’S OUR FIRE EXTINGUISHER!
Sincerely,
Online Sales Manager
A Blonde goes over to her friend’s house wearing
a T.G.I.F. T-shirt. ‘Why are you wearing a Thank God
it’s Friday T-shirt on Monday?’ ‘Oh crap!’ the blonde
says, ‘I thought it meant Tits Go In Front.’
A man was being tailgated by a stressed out wom-
an on a busy boulevard. Suddenly, the light turned
yellow, just in front of him. He did the right thing,
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 38
The Joker’s Wild
stopping at the crosswalk, even though he could
have beaten the red light by accelerating through the
intersection. The tailgating woman was furious and
honked her horn, screaming in frustration as she
missed her chance to get through the intersection,
dropping her cell phone and makeup. As she was
still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and
looked up into the face of a very serious police of-
ficer. The officer ordered her to exit her car with her
hands up. He took her to the police station where
she was searched, finger printed, photographed, and
placed in a holding cell. After a couple of hours, a
policeman approached the cell and opened the door.
She was escorted back to the booking desk where
the arresting officer was waiting with her personal
effects. He said, “I’m very sorry for this mistake.
You see, I pulled up behind your car while you were
blowing your horn, flipping off the guy in front of you,
and cussing worse than a Drill Sergeant at him. I
noticed the ‘What Would Jesus Do’ bumper sticker,
the ‘Choose Life’ license plate holder, the ‘Follow Me
to Sunday School’ bumper Sticker, and the chrome-
plated Christian fish emblem on the trunk. Natural-
ly... I assumed you had stolen the car.”
Little Sally came home from school and with a
smile on her face and told her mother. “Johnny
Smith showed me his willy today!” Before the
mother could raise a concern, Sally went on to say,
“It reminded me of a peanut” Relaxing with a hidden
smile, Sally’s Mom asked, “Really, how small was
it?” Sally replied, “No...salty!”
Indian Chief, “Two Eagles,” was asked by a white
government official, “You have observed the white
man for 90 years. You’ve seen his wars and his
technological advances. You’ve seen his progress,
and the damage he’s done.” The Chief nodded in
agreement. The official continued, “Considering all
these events, in your opinion, where did the white
man go wrong?” The Chief stared at the government
official for over a minute and then calmly replied,
“When white man find land, Indians running it. No
taxes. No debt. Plenty buffalo. Plenty beaver.
Clean water. Women did all the work. Medicine
man free. Indian man spend all day hunting and
fishing; all night having sex.” Then the chief leaned
back and smiled. “Only white man dumb enough to
think he can improve system like that.”
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 39
 couldn’t be for real! This is the best thing that has
It Pays To Be A ever happened to me!” said Sonny while selecting
the 2007 bike he’d be taking home from Patriot.

Regular Rider! He selected a 2007 Suede Blue and Black Two

toned FLSTC (Heritage Classic Softail). He liked the
Old School look and wanted something that would
Sonny Leonard just won a brand new 2007 Harley- compliment his 99 Ultra Classic. It was his daugh-
Davidson from Patriot H-D in Fairfax, VA - Valued at ter’s favorite, now 13 years old. She’s been riding
approx. $19,000! with Dad since she was 7 years old. Sonny works
As a Patriot Harley-Davidson “Regular Rider”, once at the Luckstone Quarry in Centreville, but he won’t
a year, one lucky be riding his new bike
customer is se- there, way too much
lected randomly dust!
to win a bike, Sonny has been riding
and Sonny won. motorcycles since he
The program just was a kid, he espe-
started about cially likes to take
6 months ago, long rides through the
and the winner is Shenandoah Valley.
notified by email. Patriot Harley-Da-
His first reaction: vidson is in the only
“I can’t believe dealership in the
this is true. When Metro area that has a
I got my Regu- Regular Rider Rewards
lar Rider Card I card, which gives regu-
thought, what are lar customer’s that op-
the chances I can portunity to earn points
win a bike? When on each purchase as
I got the email well as win great gifts
telling me I had all year long, with the
won, I checked bike being the grand
my SPAM fil- daddy!
ter, thinking it

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 40

Bike and Rider Show – Roanoke, VA
A sunny and DRY (outside) Sunday, HOOTERS of Roanoke was the host for a Bike &
Rider Point Series bike show. With cold refreshments and hot munchies Hooters makes for
a great spot to kick back and visit friends while checking out the custom builds, chrome,
and babes. For 2008 there are 2 bike shows scheduled at the Roanoke Restaurant and
the show series continues at numerous other locations for next year. -Garth Hinz

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 41

It’s important for you to know who your friends are Virginia Full House Cycles Revolutionary Harley-Davidson
out there when you hit the road! Welcome to our 100 Full House Drive 6401 Richmond Rd
Biker Friendly Directory. The following is a list of Absolut Cycle Worx Winchester, VA Lightfoot, VA 23090
establishments throughout the Mid-Atlantic states 5016 Old Midlothian Tnpk 540-667-0088 (757) 565-5122
that want you to know that they’re here for YOU. Richmond, VA 23224
Whether it’s a bike dealer, service shop, restaurant, (804) 497-7000 Gary’s Automotive Again
Email: absolutcycleworx@yahoo.com Richmond Harley-Davidson
bar or any other type of business that welcomes our 23220 Airport Street 10441 Washington Highway
biking community through their doors, you can count Petersburg, VA 23803 Glen Allen, VA
on our family of friends to always welcome you in. Al’s Towing & Nicky’s Custom (804) 733-8644
5570 Raby Rd (804) 550-9280
ALL of our regular advertisers can be found, in bold,
throughout this listing – they are here for you, making Norfolk, VA 23541 Gator Hole Powersports
(757) 407-2735 or (757) 407-2696 Riders, Inc
a special showing to give you the finest in everything 342 Mecklenburg Drive 928 Cycle Lane
that they have to offer. Most of them ride too, so they www.alstowing.com Chase City, VA 23924 South Hill, VA
know exactly what you want & need. The staff here (434) 372-1771 877-913-1379
at Thunder Roads is greatly appreciative of all of our American Legend Custom Motorcycles
10611 Wards Rd www.ridersinc.net
advertiser’s continuous support each month - they Grove’s Winchester Harley-Davidson/Buell, Inc.
are the sole financial supporters of this magazine Rustburg, VA 24588 140 Independence Drive (Route 50 East)
(434) 821-5303 Roanoke Valley Harley-Davidson/Buell
– WE WOULD NOT EXIST WITHOUT THEM! So
www.americanlegendcustomcycles.com Winchester, VA 22602 1925 Peters Creek Road
please give them the support that they truly deserve (540) 662-4468 Roanoke, VA 24017
for being with us & drop by to see them for a visit.
Bayside Harley-Davidson (540) 562-5424
Let them know that you saw them here in Thunder
3403 High Street Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson/Buell
Roads. If you know of a business that would like
Portsmouth, VA 6450 George Washington Memorial Highway Rob’s Used Harley Parts
to join our Thunder Roads family of Biker Friendly
(757) 397-5550 Yorktown, VA 2617 Fox Mill Rd.
Places, please give us a call (757) 831-2264 or email www.baysidehd.com (757) 872-7223 Reston, VA 20191
thunderroadskelly@yahoo.com. We are the # 1 Free
(703) 476-6607
Biker Publication in the Mid-Atlantic giving you our Black Wolf Harley-Davidson Harley-Davidson of Lynchburg www.robsusedharleyparts.com
best. “Where There’s Bikes….There’s Going To Be 18100 Black Wolf Lane 20452 Timberlake Road
Thunder….THUNDER ROADS” Abington, VA 24211 Lynchburg, VA Rocker Originals
(276) 628-5822 434-237-2381 441 Grafton Drive
DEALERS & SERVICES Yorktown, VA 23692
Boyce Performance Cycles Harley-Davidson of Wytheville (757) 898-RIDE
Maryland 3057 Kings Highway 430 Lithia Road www.rockeroriginals.com
Suffolk, VA. 23435 Wytheville, VA
All American Harley-Davidson Phone (757) 538-2848 276-228-9000
8126 Leonardtown Rd. Rocket Rogers Old 97 Choppers
Hughesville, MD 20637 2830 Riverside Drive
Burcham Cycles, Inc. HOPAR’S Danville, VA 24540
(888) 833-2REV 333 B Industrial Drive 21771 Timberlake Road
www.allamericanh-d.com 434-792-3132
Petersburg, VA 23803 Lynchburg, VA 24502 www.rocketrogersmotorcycles.com
(804) 526-2300 (434) 455-2143
Harley Davidson of Washington www.burchamscycles.com &
9407 Livingston Rd. Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell
5411 Williamson Road 213 Rolling Thunder Lane
Ft. Washington, MD Catlin Kustom Cycles Roanoke, VA 24012
(888) HDFEVER 1909 Boulevard Staunton, VA
(540) 362-0140 (540) 213-7433
www.hdwash.com Colonial Heights, VA
804526-2208 www.shenhd.com
Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City Iron Core
www.ckccustoms.com 977 Chimney Hill Shopping Center
10716 Ocean Gateway Southside Harley-Davidson/Buell, Inc.
Berlin, MD Virginia Beach, VA 385 North Witchduck Rd
Chix Custom Cycles (757) 631-8393
(410) 629-1599 3745 Shore Drive Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach, VA (757) 499-8964
Harley-Davidson/Buell Shop of Williamsport Iron Sports Custom Cycles
(757) 363-2453 3520 Williamson Road
10210 Governor Lane Blvd - Suite 2004 www.chixcustomcycles.com South Richmond Harley-Davidson Shop
Williamsport, MD 21795 Roanoke, VA 10011 Hull Street
(301) 223-1800 or (301) 416-3900 Classic Twins (540) 366-0042 Richmond, VA
19363 Brandy Road (804) 745-3445
Harley-Davidson of Maryland Inc Brandy Station, VA Jim McClure’s
7010 Troy Hill Drive (540) 829-0313 Master Performance Cycles Thunder Road Harley-Davidson
Elkridge, MD 21075 3707 Rochambeau Dr. 4960 Riverside Drive
(410) 796-1044 Confederate Cycles Williamsburg Va. 23188 Danville, VA 24541-5630
www.harleydavidsonofmaryland.com 22447-A Timberlake Road 757 566-0544 Fax 566-8218 (434) 822-BIKE (2453)
Lynchburg, VA 24502 mrspokehead@aol.com www.davishd.com
Haus of Trikes (434) 237-2316
12636 Sunset Ave. Unit F5 King’s Restoration Tidewater Motorcycles Inc.
Ocean City, MD Coleman Power Sports 36 Cloverdale Pl. 4324 Godwin Blvd
(410) 213-2421 435 S. Washington St. Cloverdale, VA Suffolk, VA
www.hausoftrikes.com Falls Church, VA (540) 966-3911 (757) 255-4200
(800) 888-3619
North Carolina www.wherethepoweris.com Nicky’s Custom Auto & Cycle Tom’s Custom Cycles
5570 Raby Rd. 7203A George Washington Memorial Hwy Rt17
Curly’s Harley-Davidson/Buell Coleman Power Sports Norfolk, VA 23502
3825 Reidsville Road Yorktown, VA
14105 Telegraph Rd. (757) 461-7097, (757) 455-6667 (757) 898-7702
Winston-Salem, NC Woodbridge, VA Nicky’s cell: (757) 407-2696
336-722-3106 (703) 497-1500 www.alstowing.com
www.wherethepoweris.com Velocity Motorcycles – Eagle Riders
Davis Harley-Davidson SALES & RENTALS
Outkasst Cycles 1202 North Boulevard
2215 Hanford Rd. Colonial Harley-Davidson/Buell 3907 Bellson Park Dr
Burlington, NC 27215 1701 Temple Parkway Richmond, VA 23230
Midlothian, VA 23112 www.Velocityvintage.com
(336) 227-1261 Prince George, VA (804) 744-7848
www.davishd.com (804) 861-4700 (804) 353-3456
“SCREW STOCK”
Kitty Hawk Harley-Davidson Departure Bike Works Waugh Enterprises
8739 Highway 158 Outlanders 385 Waugh Boulevard
5216 Hull St 4768 US Highway 211 West
Harbinger, NC 27941 Richmond, VA Orange, VA
(252) 491-2091 Luray, VA 22835 (540) 672-5550
(804) 231-0244 (540) 743-2040
www.kittyhawkhd.com www.departure.com www.outlanders.ws Whitt’s Harley-Davidson/Buell Sales, Inc.
Nag’s Head Harley-Davidson Devil Dawg Custom Cycles email: outlnd@shentel.net 9321 Center Street
4104 S. Dare Trail 14512 Lee Road Units C, D & E Manassas, VA
Milepost 13 (Highway 159 Bypass) Chantilly, VA 20151 Patriot Harley-Davidson (703) 369-7077
Nags Head, NC 27959 (703) 378-4115 or (888) 550-9810 9739 Lee Highway www.whittshd.com
(252) 255-5922 www.devildawgcustomcycles.com Fairfax, VA
www.nagsheadhd.com (703) 352-5400 West Virginia
East Coast Harley/Buell
Outer Banks Harley-Davidson 17975 Main Street ProStreet Cycles Busted Knuckles Custom Cycles
1223 U.S. Highway 17 South Dumfries, VA 8075 Jefferson Davis Hwy 9478 Winchester Ave
Elizabeth City, NC 27909 (703) 221-3757 Richmond, VA 23237 BunkerHill, WV 25413
(252) 338-8866 (804) 271-7766 (304) 229-9360
www.outerbankshd.com www.prostreetcycles.net www.bustedknucklescycles.com
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 42
 Cole Harley-Davidson
1804 Bland St.
Bluefield, WV 24701
(304) 324-8116
Mike’s Harley-Davidson
Highway 119 Preece Bottom Rd
Delbartown, WV 25670
(304) 426-4241
PAINT AND GRAPHICS
Virginia
Dye Art Custom Airbrush & Graphics
200 Commerce Circle, Suite L
Yorktown, VA 23693
(757) 596-1867
www.dyeart.com
Hollywood Signs (vehicle graphics, decals)
23202 Airport St.
Petersburg, VA 23833
(804) 733-8956
LEGAL SERVICES
Epstein, Sandler & Flora P.C.
413 W. York Street
Norfolk, VA 23610
1-800-9-THE-LAW
The Law Office of Tom McGrath
1-800-321-8968
www.motorcyclevirginia.com
BIKER ACCESSORIES, APPAREL,
LEATHERS & GIFTS
Virginia
Diva Customs
501 17th St.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
(757) 428-DIVA
www.divacustoms.com
Fast Lane Biker Gear & Accessories
166 S. Rosemont Rd. Ste. G
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
(757) 340-4446
Harley-Haven
1920Atlantic Ave
Virginia Beach, VA
(757) 425-2458
Mr. D’s Leather & Novelties
9902A Warwick Blvd
Newport News, VA
(757) 599-4070
Reeps Riders
3601B E. Ocean View Ave
Norfolk, VA 23518
(757) 362-3971
www.reepsriders.com
Renegade Classics
14575 Jefferson Davis Hwy
Woodbridge, VA 22191
703-499-9533
www.nova.rcosva.com
Route 17 – The Rider’s Highway
3403 High Street (Hwy 17)
Portsmouth, VA 23707
(757) 967-8268
route17va@aol.com
The Shade Tree
www.myshadetree.net
757-435-2457
The Leather Shack
10 Weems Lane
Winchester, VA 22601
(540) 678-3900
www.theleathershack.com
West Virginia Knuckleheads Roadhouse SPORT FISHING
401 North Witchduck Road
C & A Bike Accessories Virginia Beach, VA 23462
1615 Winchester Ave. Unit B (757) 644-6200 CHARTER BOAT “AMETHYST”
Martinsburg, WV 25401 www.knuckleheadsvb.com Indian River Inlet, Rehoboth Beach, DE
(304) 263-8229 Tuna * Dolphin * Shark * King Mackerel
www.cabikeaccessories.com Mary Jayne’s Lazy Horse Bar & Grill Sea Bass * Croaker * Flounder
565 Cedar Road Since 1984 1-800-999-8119
Chesapeake, Va 23322 www.atbeach.com/amethyst
INSURANCE Email: amethystcharters@aol.com
(757) 549-0367
Randzz Restaurant & Pub
Clark Insurance Agency TATTOO STUDIOS
4709 Mason Rest Ct. 6001 Holland Rd.
Richmond, VA Suffolk, VA 23437
(804) 271-1961 (757) 657-9331 City Limits Tattoo & Piercing, Ltd.
EVERY NIGHT IS BIKE NIGHT!
119D Boulevard
Colonial Heights, VA 23834
BARS & RESTAURANTS The Hawg Pen (804) 504-0600
www.citylimitstattoo.com
198 Shortcut Road Highway 158
Barco, NC 27917
North Carolina (252) 453-8436 Two Feathers Tattoos
“Art With A Pulse”
Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge, (757) 575-5977
Sports Center & Marina
169 Walnut Island Blvd MOTORCYCLE RENTALS
Grandy, NC 27939 BANDS
(252) 453-4153
www.outerbanksbikerally.com Virginia
Bad Ace
Dirty Dick’s Crab House Bayside Harley-Davidson Contact Jeff Abbott
On the Bypass, Hwy 158 2211 Frederick Blvd I-264 Exit 5 www.badace.com
Kill Devil Hills, NC Portsmouth, VA 23704 bad.ace@cox.net
(252) 449-CRAB 757 397-5550 (757) 989-5559 or (757) 218-7467
www.baysidehd.com
Krazy’s Saloon Southern Attitude Band
Rt 1 South Eagle Rider Motorcycle Rental Country * Southern Rock * Classic Rock
Rockingham, NC 28379
14159 Mariah Court For Bookings Call Ben Duncan (757) 713-2088
(757) 327-1837
(910) 610-3839 Chantilly, VA
703-802-9860 The Rhythm Pigs
Contact: Timmy Fodrey
Mako Mike’s Restaurant 1-866-268-6782 (757) 286-6001
MP 7 – US 158 Bypass www.eagleriderdc.com www.rhythmpigs.com
Kill Devil Hills, NC
252-480-1919 Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City 10 Foot 6
10716 Ocean Gateway Contact: Sonny Bowen
The Hawg Pen Berlin, MD (757) 236-5345 or (804) 642-2707
198 Shortcut Road Hwy 158 (410) 629-1599 Email: sonnybowen@10foot6.com
Barco, NC 27917
(252) 453-8436 Kitty Hawk Harley-Davidson
8739 Caratoke Highway TOWING
Virginia Harbinger, NC 27941
252 491-2091
Boneshakers Saloon Al’s Towing of Virginia – 24 Hour Service
1297 General Booth Blvd www.kittyhawkhd.com
5570 Raby Rd.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451 Norfolk, VA 23502
(757) 961-8382 Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell (757) 461-7097, (757) 455-6667
www.boneshakerssaloon.com 213 Rolling Thunder Lane Al’s cell (757) 407-2735
Staunton, VA 24401 www.alstowing.com
Club Car Café (540) 213-8026
18497 Dunne Ave www.shenandoahhd.com Peaco Towing, Inc. 24 HOUR SERVICE
Parksley, VA 23421 6906 School Avenue
(757) 665-7822 Richmond, Virginia 23228
FUN PLACES TO STAY
The Cactus Steakhouse & Saloon
6401 George Washington Memorial Hwy Rt 17 REAL ESTATE
Yorktown, VA North Carolina
(757) 898-8500
Bob Chapman – The Biker’s Realtor
Damon & Company Sports Bar & Grill Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge,
Sports Center & Marina 926-A J. Clyde Morris Blvd
7104 George Washington Memorial Hwy Newport News, VA 23601
Rt. 17 North 169 Walnut Island Blvd (757) 897-9790
Gloucester, VA Grandy, NC 27939 bob@movingwithbob.com
(804) 693-7218 (252) 453-4153 www.movingwithbob.com
www.damonsbar.com www.outerbanksbikerally.com
Dirty Dick’s Crab House Comfort Inn Oceanfront South TRAILER SALES
Rudee Inlet 8031 Old Oregon Inlet Road
Virginia Beach, VA Nags Head, NC Segeleon Racing LLC
(757) 491-DICK (800) 334-3302 (757) 651-7451
Email: lsegeleon@pssfed.com
HOOTERs of Chesterfield
1211 Huguenot Rd Trailer World
Midlothian, VA PHOTOGRAPHY
1982 George Washington Memorial Highway
(804) 378-9464 Gloucester Point, VA 23062
www.vatrailerworld.com
Hoss’s Deli Fisher Productions
806 Old Oyster Point www.fisherproductionsonline.com
Virginia Trailer Sales, Inc.
Newport News, VA Motorcycle & Auto portraits 486 Maury River Rd.
(757) 596-9104 Leading the way in Sport Photography Lexington, VA 24450
(804) 720-1049 (540) 464-1006 phone
Marilyn’s Hot Rod Café (540) 464-3244 fax
4207 Wards Rd tyler486@earthlink.net
Lynchburg, VA vatrailersales.com
(434) 832-1555
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 43
 A 1913 FN (Fabrique Na-
MOTORCYCLE HISTORY tional), Belgium, 4cylinders
(From wikipedia.org)
and shaft drive
Motorcycle history begins in the second half of the 1800s. Motorcycles
In 1898, English bicycle
are descended from the “safety bicycle,” a bicycle with front and rear
maker Triumph decided to
wheels of the same size and a pedal crank mechanism to drive the
extend its focus to include
rear wheel. Despite some early landmarks in its development, motor-
motorcycles, and by 1902,
cycles lack a rigid pedigree that can be traced back to a single idea
the company had produced
or machine. Instead, the idea seems to have occurred to numerous
its first motorcycle—a bicycle fitted with a Belgian-built engine. In
engineers and inventors around Europe more-or-less simultaneously.
1903, as Triumph’s motorcycle sales topped 500, the American com-
pany Harley-Davidson started producing motorcycles.
Early milestones
In 1904, the Indian Motorcycle Manufacturing Company, which had
Petroleum power
been founded by two former bicycle racers, designed the so-called
The inspiration for the earliest dirt bike,
“diamond framed” Indian Single, whose engine was built by the Aurora
and arguably the first motorcycle, was
Firm in Illinois. The Single was made available in the deep red color
designed and built by the German
that would become Indian’s trademark. By then, Indian’s production
inventors Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm
was up to over 500 bikes annually and would rise to 32,000, its best
Maybach in Bad Cannstatt (since 1905
ever, in 1913.
a city district of Stuttgart) in 1885. The
During this period, experimentation and innovation were driven by the
first petroleum-powered vehicle, it was
popular new sport of motorcycle racing, with its powerful incentive to
essentially a motorized bicycle, although
produce tough, fast, reliable machines. These enhancements quickly
the inventors called their invention the
found their way to the public’s machines.
Reitwagen (“riding car”). They had not set out to create a vehicle form
but to build a simple carriage for the engine, which was the focus of
A 1923 BMW R32, with a
their endeavors.
shift-drive, boxer twin engine
Steam power
Chief August Vollmer of the
However, if one counts two wheels with steam propulsion as being
Berkeley, California Police
a motorcycle, then the first one may have been American. One such
Department is credited with
machine was demonstrated at fairs and circuses in the eastern United
organizing the first official
States in 1867, built by Sylvester Howard Roper of Roxbury, Mas-
Police Motorcycle Patrol in
sachusetts. There exists an example of a Roper machine dating from
the United States in 1911.
1869, but there is no patent existing and nothing proves it was a work-
By 1914, motorcycles were
ing model. It was powered by a charcoal-fired two-cylinder engine,
no longer just bicycles with engines; they had their own technologies,
whose connecting rods directly drive a crank on the rear wheel. The
although many still maintained bicycle elements, like the seats and
Roper machine predates the invention of the safety bicycle by many
suspension.
years, so its chassis is based on the “boneshaker” bike.
Until the First World War, Indian was the largest motorcycle manu-
In 1868, the French engineer Louis-Guillaume Perreaux patented a
facturer in the world. After that, this honor went to Harley-Davidson,
similar steam-powered vehicle, which was probably invented inde-
until 1928 when DKW took over as the largest manufacturer. BMW
pendent of Roper’s. In this case, although a patent exists that is dated
motorcycles came on the scene in 1923 with a shaft drive and an
1868, nothing indicates the invention had been operable before 1871.
opposed-twin or “boxer” engine enclosed with the transmission in a
Nevertheless, these steam-powered vehicles were invented prior to
single aluminum housing.
the first petroleum-powered motorcycle.
By 1931, Indian and Harley-Davidson were the only two American
manufacturers producing commercial motorcycles. This two-company
An 1894 Hildebrand & Wolfmüller
rivalry in the United States remained until 1953, when the Indian
Motorcycle factory in Springfield, Massachusetts closed and Royal
First commercial products
Enfield took over the Indian name.
In the decade from the late 1880s,
dozens of designs and machines
An historic V-twin American
emerged, particularly in France, Ger-
motorcycle — a 1941 Crocker
many and England, and soon spread
There were over 80 different
to America. During this early period
makes of motorcycle avail-
of motorcycle history, there were
able in Britain in the 1930s,
many manufacturers since bicycle
from the familiar marques like
makers were adapting their designs for the new internal combustion
Norton, Triumph and AJS to
engine.
the completely obscure, with
In 1894, the Hildebrand & Wolfmüller became the first motorcycle
names like New Gerrard, NUT, SOS, Chell and Whitwood, about twice
available to the public for purchase. However, only a few hundred
as many motorcycle makes competing in the world market during the
examples of this motorcycle were ever built. Soon, as the engines
early 21st century.
became more powerful and designs outgrew the bicycle origins, the
In 1937, Joe Petrali sets a new land speed record of 136.183 mph
number of motorcycle-oriented producers increased.
on a modified Harley-Davidson 61-cubic-inch overhead valve-driven
motorcycle. The same day, Petrali also broke the speed record for
The 20th century
45-cubic-inch engine motorcycles.
In Europe, production demands, driven by the buildup to World War
Before World War Two
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 44
Two, included motorcycles for military use, and BSA supplied 126,000 managed to survive. Also as a result, in Germany, BMW’s worldwide
M20 motorcycles to the British armed forces, starting in 1937 and sales sagged in the 1960s but came back strongly with the introduc-
continuing until 1950. Royal Enfield also produced motorcycles for tion of a completely redesigned “slash-5” series for model year 1970.
the military, including a 125 cc lightweight motorcycle that could be From the 1960s through the 1990s, small two-stroke motorcycles
dropped (in a parachute-fitted tube cage) from an airplane. were popular worldwide, partly as a result of the East German Walter
Kaaden’s engine work in the 1950s, later acquired by Suzuki via stolen
After World War Two
After the Second World War, some American veterans found a plans supplied by MZ rider Ernst Degner, who defected to the West in
replacement for the camaraderie, excitement, danger and speed of life 1961 [1] part way through a race at the Nuerburgring.
at war in motorcycles. Grouped into loosely organized clubs, motor- Harley-Davidson (HD) in the U.S. at the time suffered from the same
cycle riders in the U.S. created a new social institution—the motor- problems as the European firms, but its unique product range, Ameri-
cyclists or “bikers”—which was later skewed by the “outlaw” persona can tariff laws and nationalism-driven customer loyalty allowed it to
Marlon Brando portrayed in the 1954 film The Wild One. survive. One alleged flaw, however, was retaining the characteristic
In Europe, on the other hand, post-war motorcycle producers were HD 45° engine vee-angle, which causes excess vibration as well as
more concerned with designing practical, economical transportation the characteristic loping HD sound.
than the social aspects, or “biker” image. Italian designer Piaggio A factory full fairing was introduced by BMW motorcycles in the
introduced the Vespa in 1946, which experienced immediate and wide- R100RS of 1977, the first factory fairing produced in quantity. In 1980,
spread popularity. Imports from the UK, Italy and Germany, thus found
a niche in U.S. markets that American bikes were unable to fill. BMW stimulated the “adventure touring” category of motorcycling
The BSA Group purchased Triumph Motorcycles in 1951 to become with its R80G/S. Then, in 1981, BMW introduced the first motorcycle
the largest producer of motorcycles in the world claiming “one in four”. with standard anti-lock-brakes (ABS) in its K-series motorcycles. As a
The German NSU was the largest manufacturer from 1955 until the result, BMW has seen increased popularity in the motorcycle market-
1970s when Honda became the largest manufacturer—a title now place.
claimed by Indian bike firm Hero Honda, which specializes in small
motorcycles throughout India and similar markets. The Present
A 1962 Triumph Bonneville A 2004 Kawasaki ZX-7RR
represents the popularity of Today the Japanese manu-
British motorcycles at that
time. British manufacturers facturers, Honda, Kawasaki,
Triumph, BSA, and Norton Suzuki, and Yamaha domi-
retained a dominant position nate the large motorcycle
in some markets until the industry, although Harley-
rise of the Japanese manu- Davidson still maintains a
facturers (led by Honda) high degree of popularity,
in the late 1960s and early particularly in the United
1970s. The role of the motorcycle shifted in the 1960s, from the tool States.
of a life to a toy of a lifestyle. It became part of an image, of status, a Recent years have seen a resurgence in the popularity around the
cultural icon for individualism, a prop in Hollywood B-movies. world of many other motorcycle brands, including BMW, Triumph and
The motorcycle also became a recreational machine for sport and
leisure, a vehicle for carefree youth, not essential transportation for Ducati, and the emergence of Victory as a second successful mass-
the mature family man or woman, and the Japanese were able to builder of big-twin American cruisers.
produce modern designs more quickly, more cheaply, and of better In November 2006, the Dutch company E.V.A. Products BV Hol-
quality than their competitors. Their motorbikes were more stylish and land announced that the first commercially available diesel-powered
more reliable, so the British manufacturers fell behind as mass-market motorcycle, its Track T-800CDI, achieved production status.[14] The
producers. Track T-800CDI uses a 800cc three-cylinder Daimler Chrysler diesel
The Honda Motor Co., which was officially founded in Japan on Sep- engine. However, other manufacturers, including Royal Enfield, had
tember 24, 1948, introduced their SOHC inline 4-cylinder 750 in 1969, been producing diesel-powered bikes since at least 1965.
which was inexpensive and immediately successful. The SOHC 750
helped to establish the across-the-frame-4 engine configuration as
one of the more popular designs for performance motorcycles, even Motorcycle traffic in Bangkok
to this day. In 1969, Kawasaki also started to develop a name for itself Currently, the largest motorcycle
by producing bikes with very high performance, starting with the H1 market is the small machines
model (500cc), also known as the Mach III. market for the developing world,
The Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd., Kawasaki Heavy Industries and the hence the claim from Indian
Yamaha Motor Corporation each started producing motorcycles in the Hero Honda to be the world’s
1950s. Meanwhile, the sun was setting on British dominion over the new biggest bike firm. India
big-displacement motorbike market. has also been the home to the
Enfield Cycle Company’s Royal
Enfield, since 1995. Enfield India
Japanese dominance still makes updated versions of
The Honda CB750 revolu- the 1950s British Royal Enfield
tionized motorcycle market- motorcycles. There is a large demand for small, cheap motorcycles in
ing and was emblematic of the “developing world,” and many of the firms meeting that demand
Japanese dominance now also compete in “developed” markets, such as China’s Hongdou
The excellence of Japanese which makes a version of Honda’s venerable CG 125.Motorcycle
motorcycles caused similar taxis are the developing world’s limousines. Scooters, mopeds and
effects in all “Western” mar- motorcycles offer a fast, cheap and risky way around snarled traffic
kets: many Italian bike firms and scarce mass transit, as they can easily squeeze through jams.
either went bust or only just
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 45
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 46
POINTMAN PERSPECTIVE heartedly supported me in my efforts to organize and pro-
mote this wonderful project. I thank you gentlemen from
WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA the bottom of my heart. I could not have done it without
you.
The American G.I. has fought for his country from the
Revolutionary War to our present involvement in the May the road rise up to meet you
Middle East. He has fought and died in places he couldn’t May the wind always be at your back
even pronounce, for people that did not even like him. May the rain fall gently on your fields
Most of the time he didn’t expect much. He knew he had Until we meet again may God hold you
a job to do and he did it and did it well. He just wanted to In the hollow of HIS hand
get it done and go home to his family. Some didn’t make
it home. They are buried here at home and all across Reverend Rock
Europe. Those fortunate enough to make it home alive Rev R. J. ( Rocky ) Angone, Jr
were greeted with cheers and sometimes hostility. After
awhile the veterans service was forgotten by everyone Contact Reverend Rock at rjangone@yahoo.com
but the veteran. Or call 804-745-3445. Also visit my website at
By an act of Congress, November 11th was set aside www.pointman.homestead.com
to honor those who had fought for their country and once
a year we commemorate this day with a celebration.
Once a year everyone loves the veterans. What happens
on November 12th? We start forgetting again?
Pointman International Ministries of Chester / Rich-
mond along with a number of Veterans organizations,
civic / church groups, Boy / Girl Scouts, Brownie Troops,
HOG clubs, Patriot Guard Riders, Civil Air Patrol, VFW,
American Legion, Rolling Thunder, and a group of Hell’s
Angels are participating in a nation wide ceremony to
honor our countries fallen heroes.
WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA began in 1992 at
Arlington National Cemetery by Morrill and Karen
Worcester. This year over 500,000 wreaths will be laid at
veterans graves all across the country. Although there are
a number of ceremonies that will take place, I have been
given the honor of directing Wreaths Across America
for the Richmond National Cemetery. If you live in the
Richmond area and would like to help please feel free to
contact me. I have contact information for all the other
sites as well.
We will meet at Richmond National Cemetery, 1701
Williamsburg Rd at 9:00am Saturday December 15th,
2007. The first order of business will be to unload the
wreaths from the truck. The actual ceremony will begin
at 12:00 and then we will begin laying the wreaths. There Rocky is an ordained minister, a Vietnam vet, and an outpost leader
will be 2500 wreaths to lay. for Pointman International Ministries. He serves as a counselor and a
As those of you who read my column know, I am a staff member at Dominion Counseling and Training Center at the East
Vietnam vet and I consider this a rare privilege. I not only Gate of Richmond. Rocky is a graduate of the Elijah House School of
get to honor these fallen soldiers, I also get to work with Prayer Ministry and is a board member of the Richmond Area Coali-
tion of Men’s Ministries. He and his wife Donna live in Chester,Virginia
so many others who also understand the price of free- and together have five children and twelve grand children. Rocky is
dom. That price is written on the grave stones of those the Business Manager for South Richmond Harley-Davidson and rides
who purchased it for us. Freedom isn’t free, it is pur- a 2002 Heritage Softail Classic.He and Donna belong to Cornerstone
chased with blood. We need your help to keep the fire of Assembly of God Church and is a member of the Christian Motorcy-
clist’s Association, the South Richmond HOG’s, and the Patriot Guard
freedom burning. Riders. He is also associated with the Richmond International House
Before I close I wish to thank George Wills and Greg of Prayer, “ At Ease Ministries” of Fort Lee and can be seen weekly on
Stoneman for allowing me to use South Richmond Har- Comcast TV on “ Beauty From Ashes” with Bertha Hinson. A veteran’s
ley-Davidson as my head quarters for Wreaths Across advocate, Rocky invites your participation in this article. Share your
America; Richmond National Cemetery. They not only experiences, thoughts, and your heart with us here “ On Eagles
Wings” where Jesus is Lord.
allowed me the use of my office at SRHD, but also whole
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