TIMONIUM

FEB 11-13 2011

MD
MD State
State Fairgrounds,
Fairgrounds,
Arlen
Arlen Ness
Ness
Hug
Timonium,
Timonium, MD
MD Custome &
Antique Bik
Stars From FX’s e
Show

CHICA
The BEIG
Michele ON
Smith
Discovery Doug
Doug
TV’s HDT Keim
Keim
‘Two Wheel Playboy
Thunder’ Jessica Cover Girl
Robinso
n
Bike Avoid the Lines.
$5.00 off Admission Tickets can Randy
Randy
be purchased at any Pete’s Cycle
location, Bob’s BMW in Columbia
and the Harley Davidson Store on
Simpson
Simpson
Pulaski Highway in White Marsh

Bourget
(410) 561-7323 www.cycleshow.net
facebook.com/timoniumcycleshow
 OWNER / EDITOR 1920 Centerville Turnpike, Suite 117-270
SALES: Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Office phone: (757) 831-2264
Kelly Werrell Email:kelly@thunderroads-virginia.com
Website: www.thunderroads-virginia.com
www.myspace.com/thunderroads_virginia
OWNED

THUNDER ROADS VIRGINIA’s “ROAD CREW”

SALES CREW Webmaster
For information about advertising in Thunder Roads Virginia,
visit the Advertising page of our website
www.thunderroads-virginia.com or contact any of our William C. Frohmiller
Sales Crew listed below. webmaster@thunderroads-virginia.com.
Covering the state of Virginia
Layout & Design
Beth Albert (804) 536-1299 Warren Ells
beth@thunderroads-virginia.com Art Director, Thunder Publishing
(Southern Virginia)

Rodrigo “Rod” Lobo Guerrero

Steve Baxter Ad Designer
thunderroadssteveb@yahoo.com
(757) 727-3435
On Eagles Wings
(Eastern VA including the Peninsulas
& Mobile Statewide) Reverend Rocky Angone

William Day “Wild Bill” (804) 814-8498

Preacher Rick Saunders
Thunderroadswildbill@yahoo.com
(Richmond & surrounding areas)

Pastor Tammy Hayes

Chris “Coyote Killer” Holden (757) 803-5697
GFYChris@thunderroads-virginia.com
(Hampton Roads & surrounding areas including Preacher Gordon Bacon
the Peninsulas & the Eastern Shore)

Other Contributing Writers/Photographers

Mike “Baddog” Thomas (804) 317-7586
Beth Albert
baddog@thunderroads-virginia.com Bo Albert
(Colonial Heights, Petersburg Ricky Derby
& surrounding areas) Chris “Coyote Killer” Holden
Becky Lawson
Dave Sutton
Mike “Baddog” Thomas
Kelly Werrell (757) 831-2264 Kelly Werrell
kelly@thunderroads-virginia.com Tim Wilmoth
William “Wild Bill” Day

Special Thanks to: Warren Ells - our wonderfully talented Special Events Photographer
layout guy who designs our pages & puts all the pieces Skibo Adams
together for us each month, Rod - for his killer ad designs 804-241-9759
& Bill of WCFStudios.com, our webmaster, who keeps our skibo362@comcast.net
site rockin’ on the web. Also many thanks to all of our Hog Wild Photography
readers, advertisers & those of you out there that spread www.hogwildphotography.com
the word or pass a magazine to a friend who’s never heard
of us before - You ALL are what keeps the Thunder rolling! * All articles & pictures within Thunder Roads Virginia are
contributed by our Crew, Thunder Road’s national network
resources & freelance writers/photographers.
 CONTENTS
On The Cover
Timonium
Motorcycle Show
Calendar Of Events............................................4
Proud To Be An American..............................9
Hot Shots..............................................................12
Clubs & Organizations..................................23
The Joker’s Wild..............................................28
Biker Friendly Directory..............................32
NCOM News Bytes..........................................36
On Eagle’s Wings.............................................39
Advertisers Index..........................................44
NATIONAL FOUNDERS
Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon
1528 Matlock Drive
Chapmansboro, TN 37035
Corporate Office: 615-792-0040
Fax: 615-792-7580
e-mail: thunderroads@charter.net
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT
WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE
HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OCCUPIED BY THE ER-
ROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS
SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LI-
ABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PER-
SON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND CLAIMS MADE BY ADVERTISERS AND
AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN, AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE POLICY OF
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES NOT PRO-
MOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.
EDITOR’S LETTER
Happy New Year everyone! I love the 1st month of a new year. It’s a
time for starting out fresh after all the holiday craziness that seems to take
place in the last 2 weeks of December. I try very hard to take a couple of
days at the very end of the year to do absolutely nothing except “chill out”
& take a little breather for myself. Then New Years comes & it’s like a
breath of fresh air for me. I’m all rested & my head is clear, ready for new
beginnings, fresh ideas to make the coming year more fulfilling than the
last. I usually do a lot of reflecting on things that I’d like to try to do better
& find more time to do the things that I neglected before. I’ve had a bad
habit of saying that I didn’t have time for this or for that, or that I ran out of
time. If you think about it, you always make time for the things that you
want to do or are most important to you which is why we get behind to
begin with…because something else, that seemed more important at the
time, took front seat to whatever we were doing. Priorities are sometimes
confusing when you have so many #1 things to do on your list. There are
many things in my life & for the magazine that I put aside this past year
because I didn’t make or find the time to do them. The list is long but
somehow throughout the course of this year, I promised myself that I’d
find time to do them. I hope that you all find the time to do the important
things in your lives for yourself, your families, friends, or even for your
work. Whatever it may be, it sure is a great feeling when you finally get
around to doing them.
It’s going to be a great year in 2011 & we’re looking forward to
seeing you all out on the road somewhere. Our staff is small but we’ll
do our best to get to as many events as we can to take pictures & put
your smiling faces in Thunder Roads. You can help too by sending us
pictures & some information about where you’ve been & what was going
on. Thunder Roads is everyone’s magazine...yours too! We definitely
encourage reader participation with your submissions. A big THANKS
goes out to everyone who sent us pictures, articles & fun stuff last year
so that we could share it with everyone….keep em coming! Drop us a
line anytime so we can stay in touch with what’s happening out there. Be
sure to get those events into the online calendar as soon as you get your
info too…that’s the only way that it will show up in the print mag, so get
them in & save your date. A huge THANKS to the folks who make this
happen financially each month with their ads…our ADVERTISERS!! We
definitely wouldn’t be here without their support…please visit them & be
sure to tell em that you saw them in Thunder Roads.
We really appreciate you all being here with us as we begin our 9th
year of Thunder Roads Virginia…I guess we need to throw a big party
next year for #10 eh??? :) Stick around…we’re going to have a lot of fun
& good times this year! May Peace, Happiness, Prosperity & Love be in
all your days for 2011.
Stay warm & be safe – until next month, Happy Trails
Kelly

ONGOING EVENTS
BIKER CHURCH SERVICES
Liberty Biker Church 17011 Courthouse Hwy
Isle of Wight County, VA Hang-around (social)
time: 10 a.m. with free donuts and coffee. Worship
service: 11 a.m. with Christian rock band Stronghold
providing the church music. Contact is Pastor Jim
Manner, (757) 376-3612. We hold services every
Sunday & Blessing of the Bikes the 1st Sunday of
each month.
Biker Church Service
Mechanicsville, MD Rushing Wind Ministry,
29025 Three Notch Rd., Mechanicsville, MD
20659, Gordon Bacon, Preacher, 240-577-0605,
bfcgordon@yahoo.com. Sunday service 10am
-10:30am gathering and fellowship with coffee and
snacks. Wednesday Bible study 7pm-8:30. Friday
night bike night 6:30pm-10pm. Services are held
every Sunday; Bible Study held every Wednesday;
Bike Night ever Friday Night.
Liberty Biker Church & Blessing of the Bikes
Isle of Wight County, VA Our focus is sharing the
Word of God with the motorcycle community, without
all the preconceived ideas that you have to dress a
certain way or look like everyone else. For anyone
who thinks you have to fit in or be like everyone
else, guess what: People can be different. And
so is Liberty Biker Church. Hang-around (social)
time: 10 a.m. with free donuts and coffee. Worship
service: 11 a.m. with Christian rock band Stronghold
providing the church music. Our address is 17011
Courthouse Hwy, Isle of Wight County, VA, contact
is Pastor Jim Manner, (757) 376-3612 –We hold
services every Sunday & we hold a Blessing of the
Bikes the 1st Sunday of each month.
Tidewater Motorcycles Chili Dog Social
EVERY TUESDAY Free Chili Dog’s every Tuesday
at Tidewater Motorcycles. 4324 Godwin Blvd,
Suffolk, VA 23434. visit www.tidewatermotorcycles.
net for more info.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 4
SAVE YOUR DATE!!! IS YOUR EVENT IN OUR CALENDAR???
If not, submit it on the Events page of our website
www.thunderroads-virginia by the 15th of the month so it will make
it into the next issue. We need events submitted as far in advance
as possible so that others can be respectful of the date that you’ve
chosen for yours.
Jan 14th – 16th
2011 Washington, DC International Motorcycle Show
Washington DC Washington Convention Center, 801
Mount Vernon Pl. Washington, DC 20001 Halls D/E, www.
dcconvention.com. Welcome to a brand new powersports
event experience from the ground up, custom built for you
as a motorcyclist. The Progressive Intl Motorcycle Show
is where you belong. DIY Garage Seminars-Hands on
Experience. Demo Rides in Select Markets – Real life
evaluation. New Models – photos don’t do these bikes
justice. Rider Seminars – leave the show a better rider.
Prizes & Giveaways – $100s of dollars in Free Stuff! Beat
the lines and you’ll always find the best prices online at
motorcycleshows.com – Save $3 with Promo Code
COVER.
Jan 16th & 17th 2011
VCOM’s 2011 Motorcycle Lobby Day
Richmond, VA Spend two days learning about the
legislation, and voicing your opinion on the legislation
affecting motorcyclists in the 2011 session. You’ll also
have the opportunity to eat, drink and be merry with
motorcyclists from all over Virginia. Prep session starts at
1pm on the 16th , leave for the Capital at 8am on the 17th
. Holiday Inn Airport, 445 International Drive, Sandston,
VA 23150, (804) 236-1111 – ask for the VCOM rate. Feel
free to contact VCOM, Virginia Coalition of Motorcyclists,
with any questions (804)353-3971 or jim@vcomonline.org
(800) 437-9434
Feb 11th – 13th 2011
Timonium Motorcycle Show
Timonium, MD Every foreign and domestic motorcycle
manufacturer available in the USA on display...huge
custom and antique bike show...100’s of exhibits covering
everything in motorcycling. Attendees will be able to
meet several nationally known bike builders featured on
Discovery Channel’s “Biker Build-off” and Discovery HD
Theatre “Two Wheel Thunder” throughout the three days.
Maryland State Fairgrounds - Timonium, Maryland - Opens
10am each day, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, February
11th - 13th, 2011. Admission for Adults: $15, Children 10-
15 years $5.00 and under 10 are free with paying adult.
 SAVE YOUR DATE!!! IS YOUR EVENT IN OUR CALENDAR???
If not, submit it on the Events page of our website
www.thunderroads-virginia by the 15th of the month so it will make
it into the next issue. We need events submitted as far in advance
as possible so that others can be respectful of the date that you’ve
chosen for yours.

Go to www.cycleshow.net to print-out $5.00 off admission June 18th

discount coupons, good on adult admission only. For more Katelynn Stinnett Memorial Ride - Virginia Poker Run
info call 410-561-7323, visit www.cycleshow.net or email Fredericksburg, VA 3rd Annual Katelynn Stinnett Memorial
info@aldadvertising.com. Ride - Virginia Poker Run, a benefit motorcycle ride for
child abuse awareness and prevention. All proceeds
February 19-20, 2011 to benefit Prevent Child Abuse Virginia. The Poker Run
The NORTHEAST MOTORCYCLE EXPO
begins at Big Daddy Leather, 1900 Princess Anne Street,
presented by KevMarv Productions is proud to announce
Fredericksburg, VA 22401. Registration is from 9:00am
our new location at Dulles Expo Center Chantilly VA. There
to 10:30am. Cost is $30 Rider / $20 Passenger. Prizes
will be Motorcycles, Midgets, Little People, and Mayhem
and much more. Come see new and used bikes to for best hands and worst hand. For more information
purchase, vendors with aftermarket parts and accessories, and to register online, visit the website at http://www.
maybe enter your motorcycle in our “Best of the Best” KatelynnStinnettMemorialRideVirginia.com, or call 703-
custom bike show for CASH PRIZES, be entertained by 785-1814. Register by 6/8/2011 and receive a free ride
our live bands, beautiful models and bizarre guests. Bring t-shirt.
the kids we have plenty for them to do. This is one show
you will not want to miss. Admission to THE NORTHEAST June 23rd – 25th
MOTORCYCLE EXPO is $13 for adults, $6 for children VA State HOG Rally
6-12 yrs old, and children under 6 yrs are free. Expo hours Petersburg, VA www.vastatehogrally.com
are Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to
5 p.m. The Dulles Expo Center is conveniently located at
July 15th - 17th
4368 Chantilly Shopping Center Chantilly, VA 20151. For
Thunder on the Mountain VI
further information call 1-978-688-8888 or visit our website
Hillsville, VA This is the sixth year for this great event.
at www.kevmarv.com
Vendors, bike show, bike rodeo, live bands, and more.
Mar 4th – 13th $10.00 per day, $15.00 for the weekend. Free setup for
Daytona Beach Bike Week 2011 vendors. Proceeds go to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Daytona Beach, FL www.OfficialBikeWeek.com Download the poster at: http://vabikers.org/forms/
ThunderVI_Poster.pdf. Lake Ridge RV Resort, Route 100,
May 27th – 30th, 2011 4 miles North of Hillsville, VA
Stars & Stripes & Spokes, America’s Memorial Day
Rally Washington, DC Come join us in our nation’s Aug 8th – 14th
capital for the 1st annual Stars & Stripes & SpokesTM 71st Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Motorcycle Festival at the RFK Stadium Festival Grounds Sturgis, SD www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com
to honor our nation’s armed forces during Memorial
Day weekend. There will be acres of military vehicles
and equipment on display to educate the public on the
military’s missions and equipment. Of course there will
also be plenty of live music, food, beer and hundreds of
vendors. A portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit
Walter Reed Army Medical Center’s Warrior/Family
Support Fund. Admission and motorcycle parking are
free! Visit us at http://www.stars-stripes-spokes.com
for more information. Meredith Cox, 202-942-4468,
meredith@stars-stripes-spokes.com,
www.stars-stripes-spokes.com

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 5

Highlights from the Hill City
by Dave “Prof” Sutton
Greetings from the Hill City of Lynch-
burg, Virginia. December started out
as a busy month for the Lynchburg
motorcycling community, and looks to
get even busier. The first big event hap-
pened on December 5th. Bitter cold and
strong winds did not stop bikers and
motorcyclists from coming out for the
24th Annual Lynchburg Toy Run. Members of several clubs and
organizations were joined by independents in helping Lynch-
burg Toy Run Inc. bring Christmas cheer and presents to the
children of the Presbyterian and Miller Homes.
After the run, Outlander’s Restaurant and Saloon sponsored
a multi-band concert, with proceeds going to Lynchburg Toy
Run Inc. Outlander’s has also become the new meeting place
of the Iron Horse Cavalry/Abate of Virginia, and they have
joined forces for a mid-month concert and food-drive to help
needy families in the local area. The IHC is also making holiday
donations to our four-legged friends at the Lynchburg Humane
Society.
Another chilly day, on the 11th, saw motorcyclists join the rest
of the community in honoring our veterans in “Wreaths Across
America” ceremonies at Old City Cemetery. We rode escort
for the truck carrying wreaths to the ceremony site. There, The
Daughters of the American Revolution joined veterans, politi-
cians, police and firefighters, AFJROTC cadets, War Between
the States re-enactors, bagpipers, ourselves, and just plain
citizens in thanking and honoring those who have fought and
died for the freedoms we enjoy, and often take for granted.
Look in the next issue of Thunder Roads for updates and
pictures from the food drive and concert and Humane Society
drive. Also, a report on the annual Iron Horse Cavalry/ABATE
New Year’s Day Polar Bear Run will be coming. I cannot get to
every event, but if you know of something coming up, contact
me through Thunder Roads. Until then Ride Safe, Ride Free.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 6

Two Feet Of Snow

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 7

Proud To Be
AN AMERICAN
In his own words: A message from Morrill Worcester of
Worcester Wreath Company
On behalf of everyone at Worcester
Wreath, my wife Karen, our family,
and all the people who have made the
Arlington Wreath Project their work for
so many years, we wish to express our
appreciation for the many phone calls,
email, and letters of thanks. It provides
the inspiration for all of us to renew our commitment to honor
the men and women of the armed forces who have served,
and those who are currently serving our country. To each,
and especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we
owe unwavering support and a profound debt of gratitude
for preserving the way of life we all enjoy here in the United
States of America.
The Arlington Story
Worcester Wreath and its involvement with the Arlington
project was inspired at the early age of 12 years old when,
as a Bangor Daily News paper boy, Morrill Worcester won
a trip to the Nation’s Capital. It was a trip he would never
forget, and Arlington National Cemetery (Official Site) made
an indelible impression. In later life, he recognized that his
success as a businessman was in large part, due to the val-
ues of this Nation and the Veterans who made the ultimate
sacrifice for their country.
In 1992, the Wreath Company found themselves with an
excess of wreaths nearing the end of the holiday season.
Seeing an opportunity to make a boyhood dream a reality,
efforts to do something special with those wreaths began in
earnest. With the help of Maine Senator Olympia Snowe,
arrangements were made for the wreaths to be placed at Ar-
lington in one of the older sections of the cemetery, a section
which received fewer visitors with each passing year.
With plans underway, a number of other participants
began their support for the project. James Prout, owner of
Blue Bird Ranch, Inc generously provided and transportation
all the way to Virginia. Volunteers from the local American
Legion and VFW Posts gathered with members of the com-
munity to decorate each wreath with signature red, hand-tied
bows. Member of the Maine State Society of Washington,
DC and John Metzler, Jr, Superintendent of Arlington Nation-
al Cemetery worked to organize the wreath-laying, including
the incorporation of a special ceremony at the Tomb of the
Unknown Soldier.
Now over fifteen years and over 100,000 wreaths later,
many volunteers participate in the project each year. After
learning of the annual trek to Arlington to honor our fallen
heroes, Larry Ross, an elementary school teacher from
Canaan, Maine, has taken several groups of his students to
help with the wreath-laying.
The Maine Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, under the guidance
and leadership of Majors Wayne Merritt and Dennis Murray
also participated and in the annual event over the last sev-
eral years. Each student group conducts fundraising events
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 8
throughout the year to make the trip.
Please note: many people have expressed a desire to do-
nate to this cause. Worcester Wreath Company is committed
to continue their Arlington Wreath Project, now expanded by
the Wreaths Across America™ campaign. Worcester Wreath
cannot and will not accept any donations. Those who are
interested however, may support by sending donations to:
Wreaths Across America™
PO Box 256, Harrington, ME 04643
*Individuals interested in ordering balsam products for their
own use are encouraged to place orders with Worcester-
Wreath.com . Your business is much appreciated.
2010 Escort to Arlington
Patriot Guard Riders Escort Wreaths from Maine to Arling-
ton
Each year volunteers gather in Harrington, Maine the Sun-
day before the wreaths depart for Arlington to share in a rich
tradition of decorating the wreaths with crimson red bows,
and loading the truck for its long trip to Washington D.C.
The Patriot Guard Riders, a motorcycle and motor vehicle
group with over 65,000 members nationally, dedicated to
patriotic events, are in charge of the escort the tractor-trailer
loads with donated wreaths from Maine to Arlington.  They
are joined by other patriotic motorcycle and motor vehicle
groups along the way.
The following is a list of locations throughout the state of
Virginia who participate in the Wreaths Across America Ride
each year:
Albert Horton Memorial Vet Cemetery, Suffolk
Alexandria National Cemetery, Alexandria
Arlington National Cemetery
Balls Bluff National Cemetery, Leesburg
City Point National Cemetery, Hopewell
Cold Harbor National Cemetery, Mechanicsville
Culpeper National Cemetery, Culpeper
Danville National Cemetery, Danville
Fort Harrison National Cemetery, Richmond
Glendale National Cemetery, Richmond
Hampton National Cemetery, Hampton
Hampton VA National Cemetery VAMC, Hampton
Old City Cemetery Museums & Arboretum, Lynchburg
Powell Valley Veterans’ Memorial Gardens
Quantico National Cemetery, Triangle
Richmond National Cemetery, Richmond
Scottsville Cemetery, Scottsville
Seven Pines National Cemetery, Sandston
Staunton National Cemetery, Staunton
Union Cemetery, Leesburg, VA
VA Veterans’ Cemetery at Amelia
Winchester National Cemetery, Winchester
Yorktown National Cemetery, Yorktown
For more information about Wreaths Across America visit
www.WreathsAcrossAmerica.org
Proud To Be
AN AMERICAN

The following photos by: Patrick J. Hughes  http://patrickjhughes.org/Gallery%20Index/index.php

In what began in 1992 as one man’s dream and a heart-

felt gesture, Worcester Wreath Company initiated the
Arlington National Cemetery project - donating over
5000 wreaths each year to adorn the headstones of our
fallen veterans. Karen and Morrill Worcester.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 9

Proud To Be
AN AMERICAN

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 10

American Legion Riders, Post 75, Gloucester, VA
after the Wreaths Across America ceremony in Yorktown. They were joined by two representatives from
The Wounded Warrior Program at Fort Eustis, just after the Post had presented them with $1,600, which
was raised this year, including the money from the “Never Forget” Poker Run held back in October.
AMA will welcome valued members and new recruits at
International Motorcycle Shows
With cold and snow gripping most of the nation, motorcy-
clists often plan ahead for the next riding season, and there
is no more convenient location for making those plans than
the International Motorcycle Shows. Beginning this week-
end, the AMA will greet existing members, recruit new ones
and educate all riders on today’s big issues in motorcycling
at Qwest Field in Seattle, Dec. 10-12.
“Today’s riders have a lot of questions about the threats
to motorcycling, such as the lead ban that still targets kids’
bikes, efforts to shut down responsible trail access by envi-
ronmental groups, and unfair sound laws that target motor-
cyclists,” said AMA Director of Membership Marketing Dan
Stedman. “We will be on hand to answer questions about
these topics as well as discuss the numerous member ben-
efits of joining the AMA, from product discounts to access
to competition events and our efforts to protect the future of
motorcycling.”
In addition to the Seattle event, the AMA will also attend
the Progressive International Motorcycle Shows in Long
Beach, Dec. 17-19; Washington, D.C., Jan. 14-16; New
York, Jan. 21-23; Cleveland, Jan. 28-30; and Chicago, Feb.
11-13.
AMA members enjoy a generous 25 percent discount off
the ticket show price, available when ordering tickets online
at MotorcycleShows.com using a unique discount code.
Members can find the code by logging in at AmericanMotor-
cyclist.com. At the shows, the AMA will be on location with
booth space, signing up and renewing members, selling
tickets for a chance to win a beautifully restored 1971 Ka-
wasaki Z1 and a new Kawasaki Z1000 in a raffle to benefit
the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, as well as delivering the AMA’s
message of promoting and protecting motorcycling.
“For 2010-11, the International Motorcycle Shows have
been transformed to offer a richer show experience,” Sted-
man said. “This is the perfect opportunity for the AMA to get
more involved in motorcycling’s No. 1 consumer trade show.
Attendees at these shows are dedicated riders whose pas-
sion for motorcycling runs deep. These are exactly the type
of riders who belong in the AMA -- riders who care about
motorcycling’s future and are ready to help protect our ac-
cess to the road, trail and race track.”
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 11
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 12
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 13
Smoother Rides, Safer Roads... ing other bikers to join up.
Virginia Coalition of Motorcy- We’re making progress, but there’s
clists (VCOM) Puts Bikers on the more to be done. VCOM needs our
Political Map support now. As a supporter of VCOM,
VCOM is on the job 52 weeks each
year, representing our interests to law-
makers and local government.
The political action committee found-
ed by Tom McGrath in 1992, VCOM is
the only state-based alliance of bikers
in Virginia dedicated to defending and
promoting all the issues that concern
you as a motorcyclist on and off the
road – personal liberty, safety, freedom
of expression, political recognition,
and respect. This mission is a full time
job.
As registered lobbyists, Tom and
Director Jim Cannon are most visible
as our representatives during the Gen-
eral Assembly session every winter.
But the fact is, much of the real work
defending our right to ride and repre-
senting our interests goes on behind
the scenes throughout the year on a
one to one basis, motorcyclist to leg-
islator. Also, Tom and Jim both serve
on a number of state and local govern-
ment committees whose work impacts
motorcycling in the areas of safety, law
enforcement, and tourism.
VCOM is our organization, and Tom
and Jim are working to make certain
our issues and our voting power are
recognized. We support motorcycling
in Virginia and defend our right to ride
by supporting VCOM’s work and urg-
nancial support to VCOM is dedicated
to making your concerns known to
state and local officials and lobbying
members of the General Assembly in
100% of your financial support is dedi- defense of your right to ride freely and
cated to making your concerns known safely. Because VCOM’s founder, Tom
to state and local officials and lobbying McGrath, believes strongly in the need
members of the General Assembly in for VCOM and its work, he underwrites
defense of your right to ride freely and the organization’s overhead and other
safely. expenses.
And there’s more… VCOM newslet-
VCOM – Your Voice at the Virginia ters keep you up to date on legisla-
General Assembly tion and other actions that affect your
Whenever the rights of Virginia’s rights. Also, when critical issues arise,
motorcyclists are threatened by you’ll receive the information you need
proposed legislation or our safety is to contact our local representatives
compromised by dangerous high- to express your views. A handsome
way maintenance practices, VCOM VCOM lapel pin, a sticker, and a re-
steps up to make our case to the right flectorized patch identify you as a rider
people and correct these situations. concerned with motorcyclists’ rights.
VCOM has a track record of success- Motorcycle Lobby Day (see Jan
es to show its effectiveness in telling 16th & 17th , 2011 in the Event Cal-
our story (check out Legislation, News, endar) at the Virginia General As-
and Public Service), but there’s more sembly shows your legislators and the
to do. Defending our right to ride and public that Virginia’s motorcyclists are
our safety continues to be an ongoing informed voters proactively protecting
battle. their right to ride.
The good news is, thanks to
VCOM’s visibility at the State Capitol,
Virginia’s power brokers now recog-
nize motorcyclists as an important
constituency – a force to be reckoned
with! Now, it’s important that we
maintain our momentum and keep our
issues -- and our rights – on the politi-
cal agenda. To do this, we need your
help now.
Why Join VCOM? As a VCOM
supporter, you are allied with other Vir-
ginia motorcyclists in sanctioning your
own political action committee (PAC)
to speak up for you and your right to
ride at the state legislature. Every
rider is affected when laws are passed
restricting motorcyclists’ rights. By
supporting VCOM, you demonstrate
that you are aware, interested, and
concerned about your elected officials’
voting records on issues that impact
motorcyclists.
Most importantly, 100% of your fi-
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 15
 DEADLINE!

Placing an ad with us?

Listing your event in our calendar?
Don’t forget that our deadline is the
15th of every month for the following
month’s issue-don’t be left behind!

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 16

 Things My Motorcycle Taught Me:
The only good view of a thunderstorm is in your rearview mirror.
People ask us why we ride a motorcycle. For those who have experienced the joy, no explanation is necessary; for
those who have not, no explanation is possible.
I’d rather be riding my motorcycle and thinking about God, than sitting in church thinking about my motorcycle.
Four wheels move the body; two wheels move the soul.
Most motorcycle problems are caused by the nut that connects the handlebars to the saddle.
Life may begin at 30, but it doesn’t get real interesting until about 60 mph!
You start the game of life with a full pot o’luck and an empty pot o’ experience.
The object is to fill the pot of experience before you empty the pot of luck.
If you wait, all that happens is that you get older.
Midnight bugs taste just as bad as Noon time bugs.
Saddlebags can never hold everything you want, but they CAN hold everything you need.
Don’t ride so late into the night that you sleep through the sunrise.
Sometimes it takes a whole tank full of gas before you can think straight.
Riding faster than everyone else only guarantees you’ll ride alone.
Never hesitate to ride past the last street light at the edge of town.
Never do less than forty miles before breakfast.
A bike on the road is worth two in the shed.
Respect the person who has seen the dark side of motorcycling and lived...and still rides. (I have)
Young riders pick a destination and go. Old riders pick a direction and go.
A good mechanic will let you watch without charging you for it.
Sometimes the fastest way to get there is to stop for the night.
Always back your bike into the curb and sit where you can see it.
There are drunk riders and there are old riders, but there are not many old, drunk riders.
Ride to work. Work to ride.
Whatever it is, it’s better in the wind.
Two-lane blacktop isn’t a highway - it’s an attitude.
When you look down the road, it seems to never end - but you better believe it does!
Winter is Nature’s way of telling you to test the electrics.
Keep your bike in good repair. Motorcycle boots are not all that comfortable for walking.
People are like motorcycles: each is customized a bit differently.
Sometimes, the best communication happens when you’re on separate bikes.
When you’re riding lead, don’t spit.
A friend is someone who’ll get out of bed at 2 a.m. to drive his pickup to the middle of nowhere to get you when you’re
broken down.
Catching a yellow jacket in your shirt @ 70 mph can double your vocabulary.
There’s something ugly about a NEW bike on a trailer
Everyone crashes. Some get back on, some don’t...and some can’t.
If you can’t get it going with bungee cords and duct tape, it’s serious.
If you ride like there’s no tomorrow, there may not be.
The best modifications cannot be seen from the outside.
Always replace the cheapest parts first.
You can forget what you do for a living when your knees are in the breeze.
Only a biker knows why a dog sticks his head out of a car window.
Keep the paint up, and the rubber down!
There are two types of people in this world, people who ride motorcycles and people who wish they could ride.
RIDE EM IF YOU GOT EM !!!

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 18

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 19
 kelly@thunderroads-virginia.com

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 information contact Sharon Keaton at 540-937-3924 or CulpeperSharon@
Gmail.com. Stay on top of the latest ABATE news and events by visiting www.ABATEofVA.com.
ABATE Coalfield Riders Chapter ( Grundy , VA ) meets 7PM every 2nd Saturday at Caleb
& Melissa's garage, Deel Fork, Grundy , VA 24614-9600 . Everyone Welcome. For more
information contact Steve Stacy at 276-935-2484 or SStacy@eqt.com
ABATE Culpeper Chapter ( Culpeper , VA )
meets 7PM every 2nd Thursday at Hazel River Pub, 105 E Davis St, Culpeper , VA 22701.
Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Tim Dalman at 540-219-6366 or
TimDalman@comcast.net
ABATE 1st Capitol Chapter meets the 1st Sunday of every month at the Williamsburg
Moose Lodge (5429 Richmond Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188) NOT at Beachcombers in
Yorktown.
Christian Motorcyclist Association Northern Virginia Chapter 348 www.nvcrcma.com
NVCR meets 3rd Sat each month @ Old Country Buffet in Manassas @ 9:00 am, President
– Rick Saunders, nvcrmail@msn.com Richmond, Va. 23230. Mike Walton, President (804)
514-9123 meetings come out and ride with us anyway. It’s not about the meetings. For more
information on meetings or rides please contact our chapter president, Mark Johnson, at
president@star440.org or go the www.star440.org
Moose Riders District 8
Meetings 1st Monday of Month. Contact Bubba @ 804-691-7671. Email: kimandbubba1@
verizon.net or Jeff @ 804-892-3346 Email: hawgdawgrose@wmconnect.com
Road Wench East Coast
Women’s Motorcycle Club in Northern Virginia
Website: http://roadwenchmc.com/   
Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100000803818092

ABATE Iron Horse Calvary Chapter ( Lynchburg , VA) meets 7PM every 1st Tuesday at
Mary Jane's Café, 826 Kemper St, Lynchburg , VA 24502-3250. Everyone Welcome. For
more information contact Tronco at 434-993-3197 or EvoTronco1@wmconnect.com
ABATE Lonesome Pine Chapter (Wise, VA)
meets 6:30PM every 1st Tuesday at Mosby's Restaurant, 205 Ridgeview Rd, Wise , VA
24293. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Shag Mead at 276-565-4541 or
ShageDawg@hotmail.com
ABATE Mason-Dixon Chapter ( Fairfax , VA )
meets 8PM every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at John's Place, 11104 Lee Hwy, Fairfax , VA 22030-
5005. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Bob Seoane at 703-206-0571or
NightTommy2@yahoo.com
ABATE Olde Dominion Chapter ( Falls Church , VA )
meets 8PM every 1st Monday at JVs Restaurant, 6666 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church , VA
22042-2145. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Tank Fortner at 703-309-7197
or KeviRF80@aol.com
ABATE River City Chapter ( Richmond , VA )
'No meetings, just action!' For more information contact Steve Skeens at 804-389-8293 or
HawgSke@msn.com
ABATE Virginia Cruisers Chapter ( Hampton , VA )
meets 1PM every 1st Sunday at Mugzy's Grill, 1312 E. Pembroke Ave, Hampton, VA.
Everyone welcome. For more information contact Pete Bulgart at 757-870-1517 or John at
abateregion3@yahoo.com.
TAMA – Tidewater Albemarle Motorcycle Association. ALL clubs or any organization
that hosts rides/events are welcome to attend. Come out & meet some good people
from all around the area. We’re all working together so that each one our rides/events
can be scheduled not to conflict with others & then we can all have a successful turnout.
Our meetings are held @ 7pm on the 3rd Thursday of every month (except December).
Beginning January 20th, 2011, meetings will be held at Mary Jaynes Lazy Horse, 565 Cedar
Rd, Chesapeake, VA23322.
The Sons of God Motorcycle Club Ministry® made up of Christian Bikers who
share a vision of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ with other bikers.
We hold bible study every Monday evening. For more information call TJ
(757) 819-3362, Thing (757) 621-4891 or Grape Ape (757) 831-1294. or visit
our website at www.sonsofgodmc.org
Veterans First, Inc. Chapter 1 Richmond, VA- Non-profit org. whose mission is to assist our
homeless veterans back into the mainstream of daily living. Meetings are held every 2nd
Sunday of the month at 12:00 pm, VFW Post 6364, 6502 Dickens Place, Henrico, VA. www.
veteransfirstinc.org Tigger Mabry, Founder (804) 305-1953.
Virginia Freedom Riders - Riders Against Constitutional Erosion (VFR-R.A.C.E.) exists
as a grassroots State Motorcycle Rights Organization (SMRO) dedicated to protecting and
restoring motorcyclists personal freedoms, liberties and individual rights. email: membership@
vfr-race.com. Website:vfr-race.com

AMBASSADORS FOR JESUS CHRIST MOTORCYCLE MINISTRY  (Virginia Chapter)

 Do you have a love for the lost and a passion for motorcycles?  Then the Ambassadors for
JESUS CHRIST may be for you. We meet the 4th Saturday of each month (except Nov and
Dec) at the Major Hillard Library 824 Old George Washington Hwy N  Chesapeake Va at
10am-12pm.  For more information contact: Sean “Bronx” 757-338-1974, or Eric “Holyman”

Biker
757-237-6018, or www.ambassadorsecmm.org

Beacons/Christian Motorcycle Association - Meetings: 2nd Monday of each month,

Piccadilly Cafeteria, Military Hwy, 6-8 PM. Monthly ride: 4th Saturday of each month, depart
from Shoney’s on Indian River Rd. Check our website for ride times and more information:

Pals
http://cmaner5.org/VA/BEACONSOFTIDEWATER or contact President Lenny Stowell at (757)
420-4411 or lenandtwogirls@yahoo.com

Brothers In Arms MC
The Brothers In Arms MC was formed to support the members of our armed forces, past and
present, create a camaraderie between like-minded men and women from those services,
share in our love of motorcycling and support veteran charities and causes. The Yorktown
Chapter usually meets on the third Sunday of the month at various locations in the Yorktown
area. The Brothers In Arms MC is a neutral, non-territorial club. For more information about
the club and contact links, visit the chapter web site at www.biamc-yorktown.com.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 21

 Groundhog Day

Valentine’s Day

President’s Day

www.thunderroads-virginia.com
 Timonium Bike Show
AMERICAN RECREATIONAL PROMOTIONS

‘STARS HEAD TO TIMONIUM SHOW’

FEBRUARY 11 – 13, 2011

Timonium, MD - In nine short years, The Timonium

Motorcycle Show has grown into one of the larg-
est, best-attended indoor cycle expos on the East
Coast. Located in Baltimore County, Maryland, the
Timonium Bike Event not only features all the hot-
test new 2011 motorcycle models from the world’s
top manufacturers, but also hosts one of the most
prestigious custom and antique bike competition
meets of the year. Over 250 bikes compete in
many separate trophy classes for big cash prizes
and trophies. Two-wheel enthusiasts can check
out more than 315 of the area’s top motorcycle
aftermarket companies offering everything from rid-
ing gear and equipment to travel destinations and
insurance. A group of the Nation’s most famous
bike builders show off their latest creations next
to over 25 local custom builders and fabrication
shops from nine states. Some of the superstar
builders they’ll meet this year are: Arlen Ness, the
undisputed godfather of bike builders and one of
the charter members of the prestigious Hamsters
Motorcycle Club: Chica, of Chica Customs Cycles
from Huntington Beach, California, who specializes
in ‘the old style of today’ – Old School look using
today’s technology; Doug Keim of Doug Keim
Creative Cycles “The Pride of the Jersey Shore”
and Randy Simpson of Milwaukee Iron “Steel Made
in America” from Lynchburg, VA. Also, check out
the Lightcycle from the Disney movie Tron, the Bat-
man Batpod and the Green Machine in the Parker
Brothers Display from Florida. Motorcycle apparel
fashion shows, tattoo contest, celebrity autograph
‘meet and greets’ which include stars from FX TV’s
hit series ‘Sons of Anarchy’, Michele Smith, Host of
Discovery Channel’s HDT Motorcycle Series “Two
Wheel Thunder’ and Playboy Cover Girl, Jessica
Robinson form the final layer of this diversified
event. Show Hours: Friday and Saturday, Febru-
ary 11 and 12, 10:00am – 9:00pm and Sunday,
February 13, 10:00am – 6:00pm. Admission for
Adults: $15.00, children 10 – 15 years $5.00 and
under 10 are free with paying adult. Go to www.
cycleshow.net to print-out $5.00 off coupons, good
on adult admission only. Advanced tickets can be
purchased at these Maryland Dealer locations…
Pete’s Cycle Dealerships, Bob’s BMW in Columbia
and the Harley Davidson Store on Pulaski Highway
in White Marsh. There’s expanded parking for over
2,000 vehicles this year which will eliminate the
traffic issues of past years getting onto the Mary-
land State Fairgrounds and parking is free! For
more information, call, 410-561-7323, visit www.
cycleshow.net, facebook.com/timoniumcycleshow
or info@aldadvertising.com.
A Canadian salesman checked into a futuristic hotel in
Tokyo, Japan . . .
Realizing he needed a haircut before the next day’s meet-
ing, he called down to the desk clerk to ask if there was a
barber on the premises.
‘I’m afraid not, sir,’ the clerk told him apologetically, ‘but
down the hall from your room is a vending machine that
should serve your purposes.’
Skeptical but intrigued, the salesman located the machine,
inserted $15.00, and stuck his head into the opening, at
which time the machine started to buzz and whirl. Fifteen
seconds later the salesman pulled out his head and sur-
veyed his reflection, which reflected the best haircut of his
life.Two feet away was another machine with a sign that
read; ‘Manicures, $20.00’.
‘Why not?’ thought the salesman. He paid the money,
inserted his hands into the slot, and the machine started
to buzz and whirl. Fifteen seconds later he pulled out his
hands and they were perfectly manicured.
The next machine had a sign that read, ‘This Machine Pro-
vides a Service Men Need When Away from Their Wives;
50 Cents.’
The salesman looked both ways, put fifty cents in the ma-
chine, unzipped his fly, and with some anticipation, stuck his
“wanker” into the opening. When the machine started buzz-
ing, the guy let out a shriek of agony and almost passed
out. Fifteen seconds later it shut off. With trembling hands,
the salesman was able to withdraw his tender unit...... which
now had a button sewn neatly on the end.
Harley received a parrot as a gift. The parrot cussed like a
drunken sailor. Tried as he might, Harley could not get the
parrot to stop cussing so raunchy and acting out. Finally,
after an all-day fight and lecture to the bird, Harley, in des-
peration, threw up his hands, grabbed the bird and put him
in the freezer. For a few minutes the parrot squawked and
kicked on the door. Then, suddenly there was total quiet.
Fearing that he’d hurt the parrot, Harley quickly opened
the door to the freezer. The parrot calmly stepped out onto
Harley’s outstretched arm and said “I believe I may have
offended you with my rude language and actions. I’m sin-
cerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I
fully intend to do everything I can to correct my unforgivable
behavior.” Harley was stunned at the change in the bird’s
attitude. As he was about to ask the parrot what had made
such a dramatic change in his behavior, the bird inquired,
very softly,
“May I be so bold as to ask what the turkey did?”
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 26
‘Bless me Father, for I have sinned.
I have been with a loose girl.’
The priest asks, ‘Is that you, little Eddie Hunter?’
‘Yes, Father, it is.’
‘And who was the girl you were with?’
‘I can’t tell you, Father, I don’t want to ruin her reputation.’
‘Well, Eddie, I’m sure to find out her name sooner or later
so you may as well tell me now.
Was it Tina Minetti?’
‘I cannot say.’
‘Was it Teresa Mazzarelli?’
‘I’ll never tell.’
‘Was it Cristi Capelli?’
‘I’m sorry, but I cannot name her.’
‘Was it Cathy Piriano?’
‘My lips are sealed.’
‘Was it Rosa DiAngelo, then?’
‘Please, Father, I cannot tell you.’
The priest sighs in frustration. ‘You’re very tight lipped,
and I admire that. But you’ve sinned and have to atone.
You can not be an altar boy now for 4 more months. Now
you go and behave yourself.’
Eddie walks back to his pew, and his friend slides over and
whispers, ‘What’d you get?’
‘Four months’ vacation and five really good leads!.’
We were dressed and ready to go out for the New Years
Eve Party. We did our usual ritual before going out. We
put the cat in the backyard and called a cab. The taxi ar-
rived and as we’re leaving the damn cat runs back in the
house. When we go out we always have to make sure the
cat is in the back yard as he has a tendency to attack the
bird’s cage and gets the bird all upset, who then squawks
all night and upsets the neighbors. My wife goes out to the
taxi, while I went inside to catch the cat and return it to the
back yard. The cat runs upstairs, with me in hot pursuit.
Waiting in the cab, my wife doesn’t want the driver to know
that the house will be empty for the night, so, she explains
to the taxi driver, ‘My husband will be just a minute.....he’s
just gone upstairs to say goodbye to my mother.’ The driver
nods. A few minutes later, I get into the cab. ‘Sorry I took so
long,’ I said, as we drove away. ‘That stupid bitch was hid-
ing under the bed. I had to poke her with a coat hanger to
get her to come out! She tried to take off, so I grabbed her
by the neck. Then, I had to wrap her in a blanket to keep
her from scratching me. But it worked! I hauled her fat ass
downstairs and threw her out into the back yard!’ The cab
driver then hit a parked car.
 Get into a higher spiritual gear!
17011 Courthouse Hwy., Isle of Wight County, VA

Hangaround (social) time:

begins at 10 a.m. on Sundays, free donuts & coffee

Worship service: 11 a.m. on Sundays

music by Christian rock band Stronghold

learn more online: www.libertybikerchurch.com

or call Jim at 1-757-376-3612

If you aren’t familiar with our magazine, here’s a little bit about us:
Now, in our 9th year on the road in 2011, Thunder Roads has been supporting Virginia’s motorcycle communities, reaching
approximately 45K readers each month, in print & online. This has only been made possible by the wonderful businesses
that advertise with us. Their advertising dollars pay for the entire production & distribution of our magazine each & every
month of the year. Our print magazine is an all gloss/all color publication, distributed monthly in biker friendly businesses
& events throughout the great state of Virginia. All of our articles & pictures are contributed by our staff, readers, freelance
writers & other reliable sources. You can also read each of our issues on our website www.thunderroads-virginia.com. Yes,
we’re a “biker” magazine but we keep our contents in good taste so that we are welcomed anywhere & can be enjoyed by
EVERYONE. What’s the best part about picking up a copy of Thunder Roads???...it’s FREE!!!
Pick up your free copy at any of our distribution locations listed in our Biker Friendly Directory
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 27
 Story and Photos by Terri “T” Collier, Thunder Roads Oklahoma editor Article concept and layout by Warren Ells

What on Earth are you looking at? It’s an amazing work of art called California Kid. Many of you may recall seeing something that
looks similar to this back in the 70’s when a very famous hot rod called California Kid was made famous in a movie starring Martin
Sheen. That famous hot rod was a 1934 Ford Coupe car, but that didn’t stop Mark Mosley from building a bike to replicate it.
Mark, owner of M&M Rods & Customs, Oklahoma City, loved the famous car from the first time he saw it at the Street Rod
Nationals in the 80’s. He was so impressed with it that he told his wife, “this is the standard of how you build hot rods.” The
California Kid car is pure old skool hot rod no doubt about it. Building since he was 19 years old, Mark just thought it would be
cool to build a bike replica after watching famous builders do so on television, so off he went putting the idea into reality. He
realized quickly into this project that he needed to get the proper permission to use the namesake of California Kid. A quick
phone call and some legal documentation between he and Pete & Jake’s in Peculiar, MO started the bike rolling. This hot rod
shop is owned by Jerry and Jason Slouchir who also own the car. They have since put together a California Kid2 which is a bit
more chopped and stylish. I can’t wait for the day that these two, the car and the bike, can sit side by side!
He started with a few parts he had in the shop and ran with it from there. With a frame, motor and trani, he began shap-
ing sheet metal and bending pipe. He didn’t say exactly how long it took him to complete this project, but he took his
time and a few breaks in production and rolled this baby out of the shop in November 2010. Thunder Roads Magazine
was honored to get the call from Mik of Mik’s Artwerks asking if we’d like the first, exclusive shoot of this magnificent
machine. HELLO! Don’t you know I jumped on that idea!
Mik’s Artwerks did the paint work and the body work on it once Mark had fabricat-
ed the metal work and put the bike together. Mik said his biggest
challenge was in painting it to match the car as the paint work
on the car had some history to it that rubbed against the
grain of his usual style. You see, the car was painted by
two different painters. The flames on one side, don’t
match the flames on the other side. In the middle of
painting the car, one of the painters “flaked out” and left. So,
Mik, against his normally obsessive compulsion to make every-

The Ca

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 28

 thing he paints very symmetrical, he painted the bike with two differing flame jobs on each side. The next challenge on the flames
came in that it had a few types of flames. Some were Crab Claw flames (short and fat) with other sexy long flames mixed together.
Mik said, “A flame should mimic the shape of a woman. They should be elegant and sexy.” So he now was challenged with a short,
fat sexy lady and a long lean sexy lady in one! The front fender is not the same on both sides, but they have the optical illusion that
they look the same but they’re not as the car’s front fenders were not either. Another challenge was that there’s an unattractive
wide pinstripe which runs all the way around the middle of the car. He striped that on the bike over and over, but he hated it so bad
on the car that he just couldn’t bring himself to put it around the middle of the bike. You’ll see a bit of it on the running boards, but
it’s subtle.
Speaking of those running boards. While they look like something fabricated as one smooth, easy flowing piece, those were
actually created using 13 pieces of material and some meticulous body work done by Michael at Mik’s Artwerks. Mark
said this part of the bike was the most challenging for him as he wanted to build this part in much fewer pieces, but it was
just impossible. He then said the next challenge was getting the kickstand to work. Yes, the kickstand. Something these
pictures don’t show is that the kickstand is lowered and raised by using the 1967 Ford Mustang Shifter which is in the
middle of the gas tank. Mark thought this would be cool and add one more car piece to this bike. However, he was in
for a lot of work when he created this cable operated kickstand out of a standard locking Harley kickstand. It took him
two weeks just to figure out how to run the cables and make it work properly. But, I have to say that it looks really
cool when he pulls up and shifts that thing and kicks the stand out. At first, I thought it was a suicide

alifornia Kid

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 29

shifter, but then I saw the kickstand move out into position. Very cool.
Mik said this was a challenging project for many reasons and one of
the single most difficult parts for him was painting the frontend, hood,
portion. He told me it was difficult to go from the front end into the
90 degree bend into a flat surface which led right into the gas tank. He
made it work with a negative flame on the front and a positive flame on
the tank to flow from a round object to a flat object without a break in
the line of the bike. It worked perfectly. The next thing he wanted to do
was make the paint really pop, not only the bright flames but the black
as well. He used what I called an “ancient Chinese secret” but he just
called his secret mix that he calls “Pitch Black”. He said it’s an old style
that he learned from his dad which creates a wet look in the black paint
using a blue and black mixture.
The combination of Mark’s creation, Mik’s paintwork and Michael’s body
work created one Hot Bike….Rod…sorta ride! It’s got so many wonder-
ful details, it takes a while to just take it all in. I’ve tried to show you as
much as I could on this bike in the photographs, but I know you’ll want
to check it out yourself. I’m sure the California Kid will be donning the
floors of some of the many upcoming bike shows. Take some time to
stop and look it over and say Hi to Mark. He’ll be the one smiling from
ear to ear! He’s a humble man who simply told me, “I’m still a kid look-
ing thru 19 year old eyes. I’m interested in people that just appreciate
my work.” He just built the bike cause he loved the car so much, now
if he and I could just stop slipping up and referring to it as a “car” from
time to time. We both had to laugh about that. I hope you find as much
joy seeing this work of art as I did.

BIKE SPECIFICATIONS
Frame: DayTech, Softail
Motor: Harley EV27 Cam shaved ten
thousands, jugs shaved. Keith
Black 10.5:1 Pistons. AR Cones
Carburetor: S&S
Ignition: Crane High Four
Trani: Harley Stock 5 Speed
Handlebars: Mark and TFab Created
Wheels: RC Comps
Fenders: Built by Mark, Bodywork by Michael,
Mik’s Artwerks. Built to make bike
appear lowered.
Seat: Raul Innovative Auto Interiors , also
made the Shifter Boot
Exhaust: Rod Franks at Mustang Muffler
Headlights: Aliis Chalmers Tractor Taillights Modified
Other Pieces: Stock Harley Tank Stretched. He made
the bike to match the car as close as
he could including only one mirror and
one wiper on the aluminum framed
windshield.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 30
Email kelly@thunderroads-virginia.com
BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY
Thunder Roads Is Brought To You Each Month By The Following Biker Friendly Businesses
It’s important for you to know who your friends are Jim McClure’s* Tom McGrath’s Motorcycle Law Group*
out there when you hit the road! Welcome to our Biker Master Performance Cycles The Firm That Rides
Friendly Directory. The following is a list of establishments 3707 Rochambeau Dr.
throughout the Mid-Atlantic that want you to know that
Dedicated to protecting the rights of injured
Williamsburg, VA 23188
they’re here for YOU. Whether it’s a bike dealer, service motorcyclists
(757) 566-0544
shop, restaurant, bar or any other type of business that 1-800-321-8968
mrspokehead@aol.com
welcomes our biking community through their doors, you www.motorcyclelawgroup.com
can count on our family of friends to always welcome you
Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson*
in. ALL of our regular advertisers can be found, in bold,
6450 George Washington Memorial Hwy
throughout this listing. All of our friends listed are “Biker
Friendly” & most of them ride too, so they know exactly
Yorktown, VA BIKER ACCESSORIES,

what you want & need. The staff here at Thunder Roads
(757) 872-7223 APPAREL, LEATHERS & GIFTS
greatly appreciates of all of our advertiser’s continuous
www.hrhd.com
support each month - they are the sole financial supporters Virginia
of this magazine. WE WOULD NOT EXIST WITHOUT THEM! Outlanders *
So please give them the support that they truly deserve for 4768 US Highway 211 West Affordable Military Services*
being with us & drop by to see them for a visit. Let them Luray, VA 22835 Patches, Embroidery, Sewing & more
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know that you saw them here in Thunder Roads. If you 3659 Sewells Point Rd
know of a business that would like to join our Thunder www.outlanders.ws
Norfolk, VA 23513
Roads family of Biker Friendly Places, please give us a call email: outlnd@shentel.net
(757) 855-4772-phone (757) 858-0076-fax
(757) 831-2264 or email kelly@thunderroads-virginia.com
“Where There’s Bikes….There’s Going To Be Thunder - Patriot Harley-Davidson *
THUNDER ROADS” 9739 Fairfax Blvd Big Daddy Leather*
* Pick up your FREE copy of Thunder Roads at these locations Fairfax, VA 1900 Princess Anne Street
(703) 352-5400 Fredericksburg, VA 22401
www.patriothd.com (540) 899-0048
DEALERS, PARTS & SERVICE www.bigdaddyleather.com
Pro Street Cycles *
Maryland 8075 Jefferson Davis Hwy Biker’s Depot
Richmond, VA 23237 612 Nevan Rd Suite 108 Hilltop
(804) 271-7766
All American Harley-Davidson * Virginia Beach, VA
8126 Leonardtown Rd. (804) 271-7785 – Fax
(757) 962-0159
Hughesville, MD 20637
(888) 833-2REV Revolutionary Harley-Davidson *
1915 Pocahontas Trail Unit F-5 Cavelli’s Inc
www.allamericanh-d.com
Williamsburg, VA 23185 3514 Oaklawn Blvd
(757) 565-5122 Hopewell, VA 23860
Harley-Davidson of Washington, DC *
9407 Livingston Rd.
www.hrhd.com (804) 458-2016
Ft. Washington, MD
(888) HDFEVER
Richmond Harley-Davidson * DIVA Customs*
www.hdwash.com
10441 Washington Highway 501 Virginia Beach Blvd
Glen Allen, VA Virginia Beach, VA 23451
(804) 550-9280 (757) 428-DIVA (3482)
Virginia
www.richmondharley.com
www.divacustoms.com
ASX Motorcycle Parts * Scooters*
17200 Hull St. Rd. 6906-B School Ave.
Fast Lane Biker Gear & Accessories *
(5.5 mi West of Rt. 288) Richmond, Va 23228 166 S. Rosemont Rd. Ste. G
Moseley, VA 23120 804-321-0037 Virginia Beach, VA 23452
(804) 639-1555 (757) 340-4446
Shenandoah Harley-Davidson*
Big Daddyz Cycles * 213 Rolling Thunder Lane Harley-Haven*
2810 Geo. Wash. Mem. Hwy. Staunton, VA 1920 Atlantic Ave
Hayes, VA 23072 (In Gloucester County) (540) 213-7433 Virginia Beach, VA
(4 miles over the Coleman) www.shenhd.com (757) 425-2458
804-642-3436 fax# 804-642-1461
www.hrhd.com
bigdaddyzcycles@verizon.net Southside Harley-Davidson, Inc. *
www.bigdaddyzcycles.com 385 North Witchduck Rd
Tidewater Motorcycles, Inc.*
Virginia Beach, VA
Departure Bike Works * 4324 Godwin Blvd
(757) 499-8964
5216 Hull St www.hrhd.com Suffolk, VA 23434
Richmond, VA 23224 (757) 255-4200
(804) 231-0244 Thunder Road Harley-Davidson * www.tidewatermotorcycles.net
www.departure.com 4960 Riverside Drive
Danville, VA 24541-5630 WTF Leather Crafter *
Dennis’ Truck & Trailer Repair, Inc. * (434) 822-BIKE (2453) Seats, Sewing, Patches, Leather work
309 Maury www.thunderroadhd.com 1561 Bradford Rd. Suite 102
Richmond, VA 23224 Virginia Beach, Va. 23455
Phone: (804) 230-7905 Fax: (804) 232-1302 Waugh Enterprises Harley-Davidson
(757) 439-2813 or (757) 582-4656
385 Waugh Blvd
Gary’s Automotive Again * Orange, VA 22960
23220 Airport Street 800-88-WAUGH
http://www.waughhd.com INSURANCE
Petersburg, VA 23803
(804) 733-8644

Jason’s Garage Inc./ Diva Customs* LEGAL SERVICES GEICO Powersports*

501 Virginia Beach Blvd, Motorcycle, ATV, RV, Watercraft
Virginia Beach, VA 23451 Epstein, Sandler & Flora P.C. 1-800-44-CYCLE (442-9253)
(757) 428-3482 413 W. York Street www.geico.com
www.JasonsGarageinc.com Norfolk, VA 23610
1-800-9-THE-LAW

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 32 * Pick up your FREE copy of Thunder Roads at these locations
BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY
BARS & RESTAURANTS
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23452 Tel # (757) 340-6638
North Carolina
Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge,*
Sports Center & Marina
169 Walnut Island Blvd
Grandy, NC 27939
(252) 453-4153
www.walnutisland.com
www.outerbanksbikeshow.com
Thumpers Downtown Bar & Grille*
200 North Poindexter St.
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
(252) 333-1243
Virginia
Alley Cafe and Sports Lounge*
608 N. Main St.
Kilmarnock, Va. 22482
(804) 436-1100
Boneshakers Saloon*
1297 General Booth Blvd
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
(757) 961-2812
For booking email amanda_parlays@yahoo.com
Check us out on MySpace & Facebook
New Owner, New Management, New Attitude
Clutch Bar & Grill*
1485 General Booth Blvd (Behind Hooters)
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
(757) 491-2229
www.clutchbarandgrill.com
email: info@clutchbarandgrill.com
Damon & Company Sports Bar & Grill *
7104 George Washington Mem. Hwy, Rt 17 North
Gloucester, VA (804) 693-7218
www.damonsbar.com
Grumpy’s Bar & Grill*
3541 South Plaza Trail
Virginia Beach, VA
757) 463-5033
HOOTERS
Richmond – West Broad *
7912 West Broad Street
(804) 270-WING
J.M. Randalls
4854-16 Longhill Road
Williamsburg, VA 23188
(757) 259-0406
www.jmrandalls.com
Knuckleheads Roadhouse *
401 North Witchduck Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
(757) 644-6200
www.knuckleheadsvb.com
Mary Jayne’s Lazy Horse Bar & Grill
565 Cedar Road
Cedar Lakes Shopping Center
Chesapeake, VA 23322
(757) 549-0367
Quaker Steak and Lube*
12832 Jefferson Ave.
Newport News, VA
(757) 874-LUBE (5823)
& (540) 743-5540
8000 Broad St.
Richmond, VA
(804) 217-WING
www.thelube.com
Sidelines Cafe*
125 Lucy Lane
Waynesboro, Va 22980 ( across from Wal-Mart)
(540) 941-0007 Fax (540) 941-0008
Facebook : sidelinescafe@yahoo.com
Email : sidelinescafe@yahoo.com
* Pick up your FREE copy of Thunder Roads at these locations
Smackwater Jacks * 111-A W. Williamsburg Rd. *
3333 Virginia Beach Blvd Sandston, VA 23150
(804) 328-6989
Facebook: SMACKWATERJACKS@MAIL.COM
MySpace: WWW.MYSPACE/SMACKGIRL333
www.graffitistattoo.com
Steel Horse Bar and Grill * 7122 Mechanicsville Turnpike *
1920 W. Hundred Rd. Mechanicsville, VA 23111
(1/2 mile east of I-95 on Rt. 10) (804) 559-4658
Chester, VA 23836 www.graffitistattoo.com
(804) 706-6600
www.steelhorseva.com
PERSONAL SERVICES
DJ & ENTERTAINMENT
Kuttin Station *
River City Professional DJ’s For ALL your hair needs!
VirginiaKaraoke.com 13509 Boydton Plank Road (Route 1)
Dinwiddie, VA 23841
DJ Reflex Nigel 804-908-0090
All occasion DJ and Karaoke Biker Specials!
“IT’S ALL ABOUT GOOD TIMES AND MUSIC” (804) 469-9003
MOTORCYCLE RENTALS SHOE, BOOT & LEATHER REPAIR
Shenandoah Harley-Davidson* Dakota Cobbler’s Shoppe*
213 Rolling Thunder Lane 7068 Longview Drive
Staunton, VA 24401 Hayes, VA 23072
(540) 213-8026
www.shenandoahhd.com (804) 642-4138
POWDER COATING TOWING
Peaco Towing Inc.*
Iron Core Powdercoat*
9802 Hosier St. Suite C 6906 School Ave.
Newport News, VA 23601 Richmond, Va 23228
(1 mile north of the James River Bridge) 804-262-1001
(757) 595-0157
ironcorepowdercoat@gmail.com
BIKER CHURCHES
J & J Powder Coating*
2424 Castleton Commerce Way, Suite 1101 Rushing Wind Ministry
Virginia Beach, VA. 23456 29025 Three Notch Rd.
(757) 406-2922
Mechanicsville, MD 20659
Gordon Bacon, Preacher
FUN PLACES TO STAY
(240) 577-0605 bfcgordon@yahoo.com
Sunday service 10am-10:30am. Gathering and fellowship with
coffee and snacks. Wednesday Bible study 7pm-8:30 & Friday
North Carolina night bike night 6:30pm-10pm
Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge,*
Sports Center & Marina SIGNS * BANNERS * GRAPHICS
169 Walnut Island Blvd
Grandy, NC 27939
(252) 453-4153 Wright Sign Service
www.walnutisland.com 8008 Hankins Industrial Park Rd
www.Barrysbikerally.com Toano, VA 23188
phone (757) 566-8329 fax (757) 566-8636
Comfort Inn Oceanfront South wsart@wrightsign.com
8031 Old Oregon Inlet Road
Nags Head, NC
(800) 334-3302
Virginia
Outlanders River Camp*
4253 US Hwy 211 West
Luray, VA
www.outlandersrivercamp.net
TATTOO STUDIOS
Graffiti’s Ink Gallery – 3 locations *
2311 Hungary Rd.
Richmond, VA 23228
(804) 261-5689
www.graffitistattoo.com
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 33
 If your front wheels skid...

The best advice for driving in bad winter weather is not to
drive at all, if you can avoid it. Don’t go out until the snow
plows and sanding trucks have had a chance to do their
work, and allow yourself extra time to reach your destination.
If you must drive in snowy conditions, make sure your car is
prepared, and that you know how to handle road conditions.
It’s helpful to practice winter driving techniques in a snowy,
open parking lot, so you’re familiar with how your car
If you get stuck...
handles. Consult your owner’s manual for tips specific to
your vehicle.
Driving safely on icy roads
1. Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of
room to stop. You should allow at least three times
more space than usual between you and the car in
front of you.
2. Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start
to lock up, ease off the brake.
3. Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other
motorists.
4. Keep your lights and windshield clean.
5. Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills.
6. Don’t use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.
1. Take your foot off the gas and shift to neutral, but
don’t try to steer immediately.
2. As the wheels skid sideways, they will slow the
vehicle and traction will return. As it does, steer
in the direction you want to go. Then put the
transmission in “drive” or release the clutch, and
accelerate gently.
1. Do not spin your wheels. This will only dig you in
deeper.
2. Turn your wheels from side to side a few times to
push snow out of the way.
3. Use a light touch on the gas, to ease your car out.
4. Use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels
and the underside of the car.
5. Pour sand, kitty litter, gravel or salt in the path of the
wheels, to help get traction.
6. Try rocking the vehicle. (Check your owner’s manual
first — it can damage the transmission on some
vehicles.) Shift from forward to reverse, and back
again. Each time you’re in gear, give a light touch on
the gas until the vehicle gets going.

7. Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses

and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze
first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the
conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady
areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.

8. Don’t pass snow plows and sanding trucks. The

drivers have limited visibility, and you’re likely to
find the road in front of them worse than the road
behind.

9. Don’t assume your vehicle can handle all conditions.

Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can
encounter trouble on winter roads.

If your rear wheels skid...

1. Take your foot off the accelerator.

2. Steer in the direction you want the front wheels to

go. If your rear wheels are sliding left, steer left. If
they’re sliding right, steer right.

3. If your rear wheels start sliding the other way as you

recover, ease the steering wheel toward that side.
You might have to steer left and right a few times to
get your vehicle completely under control.

4. If you have standard brakes, pump them gently.

5. If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), do not pump the

brakes. Apply steady pressure to the brakes. You
will feel the brakes pulse — this is normal.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 34

 News Bytes
RIDER TRAINING TRUMPS RIDING EXPERIENCE
A new study utilizing a motorcycle simulator has found that
formal advanced training is better than the school of Hard
Knocks regarding how a rider reacts to emergency situ-
ations on the road. A Triumph mounted on a custom rig
designed and built at the University Nottingham’s Centre for
Motorcycle Ergonomics & Rider Human Factors in England
was used to investigate the attitudes, behaviors and skills
of different types of riders according to their level of experi-
ence and training, with simulation software projecting differ-
ent riding scenarios onto a large screen in front of the rider.
Three groups; novice, experienced and those who had
taken advanced motorcycle training, were put through
identical scenarios on the simulator as well as other tasks in
the laboratory to test aspects of their hazard perception and
behavior. The researchers discovered that experience on
its own does not necessarily make riders safer on the road,
while those riders who had taken advanced motorcycle
safety training used better road positioning to anticipate and
respond to hazards, kept to urban speed limits, and actually
made better progress through bends than the other groups
of novice and experienced bikers. “This is one of the most
in-depth studies of its kind ever conducted,” said Dr. Alex
Stedmon from the Human Factors Research Group. “Whilst
experience seems to help develop rider skills to an extent,
advanced training appears to develop deeper levels of
awareness, perception and responsibility,” Stedmon noted.
“It also appears to make riders better urban riders and
quicker, smoother and safer riders in rural settings.”
NHTSA STILL PUSHING MOTORCYCLE-ONLY CHECK-
POINTS NATIONWIDE The National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA) has ignored congressional
requests to halt or delay a plan to implement and fund
motorcycle-only checkpoints nationwide. The first federally-
funded checkpoints, dubbed “roadside motorcycle safety
checkpoints,” will be launched by the Georgia Department
of Public Safety, via a NHTSA grant to the Georgia State
Patrol. NHTSA has implemented the checkpoint funding
plan despite being asked by members of Congress not to
fund the program until the merits were explained. NHTSA
has requested applications from law enforcement agencies
across the country to conduct “safety checks” that specifi-
cally target motorcyclists to pull aside for a lengthy inspec-
tion of their vehicle, equipment and paperwork. The New
York State Police have been conducting motorcycle-only
checkpoints since 2007, often targeting major motorcycle
events such as Americade. Seeking a legal remedy to stop
the constitutionally questionable roadblocks, Aid to Injured
Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) Attorney Mitchell Proner of NYC has
filed a class action lawsuit against the NYSP and New York
State on behalf of ABATE of New York and the National
Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM). Proner believes the Fed-
eral Court will agree that the stops are designed primarily
for law enforcement purposes as opposed to public safety
purposes. “Rather than promoting any legitimate public
safety concern, the checkpoints are intended to harass and
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 36
intimidate motorcyclists attempting to attend motorcycle
events thereby depriving them of their First Amendment
right to freedom of assembly as well as their Fourth, Fifth
and Fourteenth Amendment rights to due process, equal
protection and freedom from unreasonable searches and
seizures.”
NTSB CALLS FOR STATES TO REQUIRE HELMETS
The National Transportation Safety Board stated on Tues-
day, November 19, that all states should require riders to
wear federally approved helmets. Christopher A. Hart,
the NTSB’s vice chairman, called motorcycle accidents ”a
public health issue.” and said that helmet laws have been
added for the first time to the NTSB’s “Most Wanted List” of
safety improvement priorities. The list is considered a pow-
erful tool by which the NTSB forces legislative change. But
highway safety laws are largely left up to the states, which
have been increasingly resistant to many federal recom-
mendations, and the transportation agency’s appeal comes
at a time when motorcycle deaths have actually been on
the decrease since 2009. This is not the first time there has
been federal pressure exerted on states to pass helmet
laws. In the late 1960s, Congress threatened to withhold
highway funding for states failing to adopt universal helmet
laws, and within a few years almost every state had a hel-
met mandate. But by the late 1970s, political resistance and
pressure from motorcycle groups convinced Congress to
break the link between motorcycle laws and federal high-
way funds, and over half the states repealed their helmet
laws. In 1991, Congress decided to try again, offering safety
grants to states that enforced helmet and seatbelt laws.
States that didn’t enforce such laws had three percent of
their federal highway money redirected to their highway
safety programs. Still, only two states re-instituted helmet
laws and by 1995 the federal effort was again overturned
and five more states soon repealed their helmet laws.
Today, only 20 states require all riders to wear helmets, and
last year more state legislatures considered laws to repeal
helmet laws than to enact them. Forcing states to imple-
ment safety regulations is not territory the safety board want
to enter, according to Steve Blackistone, NTSB’s state and
local government relations specialist, who said “We are not
prescriptive; we cannot mandate implementation.” But on
the same day as the NTSB proclamation, the insurance
industry advocacy group Advocates for Highway and Auto
Safety called upon Congress to observe the NTSB recom-
mendation and “enact federal legislation that would result in
all states adopting all-rider helmet use laws.”
NEW JERSEY ESTABLISHES STRINGENT GUIDELINES
FOR NEW RIDERS A measure sponsored by Senator
Nicholas J. Sacco, chairman of the Senate Transportation
Committee, which would establish safety guidelines for new
motorcycle riders in the Garden State was approved by
the Assembly recently by a vote of 67-7. The bill, S-736,
would enact several motorcycle safety regulations, includ-
ing a tiered licensing provision. Under the bill, if a person is
issued a motorcycle license for a vehicle with a smaller-size
 News Bytes
engine -- less than 231 cubic centimeters -- they would be can make riders look at each other in a slightly different
legally prohibited from operating a motorcycle with an en- light. Aside from older riders having more sex than may be
gine displacement of more than 500 cc. Senator Sacco said generally considered, results from the AARP sex survey,
that this provision would ensure that new motorcycle riders “Sex, Romance, and Relationships: AARP Survey of Midlife
are restricted from operating vehicles with engines that and Older Adults”, also contradicted popular opinion with
are too powerful for that driver’s skill level. Among other singles age 45+ showing a higher satisfaction rate and hav-
provisions, the bill would also require all applicants under ing more sex than married couples in the same age group.
the age of 18 to complete a motorcycle safety program as But some stereotypes rang true in the AARP study, such
a condition for licensure or endorsement. The bill was ap- as which sex made sex a priority; Men are more than five
proved by the Senate by a vote of 31-3 on August 23, but times as likely as women with 45% vs. 8% to say they think
must be returned to consider Assembly amendments which of sex once or more every day, and men also rank sex
were largely technical in nature. If approved in the Senate, higher on the list of what makes for a high quality of life.
it would head to the Governor to be signed into law. And if any further correlation needed to be drawn between
the AARP study and motorcycle enthusiasts, the final con-
MOTORCYCLE SALES DOWN, RIDERSHIP UP clusion seems to draw a pretty solid line. Just as with riding,
Motorcycle sales continue to be hard hit, despite the de- the largest predictor of sexual satisfaction is the number
clared end to the recession, but according to the Motorcycle of times, or the frequency a respondent gets in the saddle.
Industry Council there are other indicators that point to a The number of people who consider themselves satisfied
brighter future for the two-wheel industry. Although year-to- rockets to 84% if they “ride” more than once a week while
date market data reveals an 18.3% drop in new unit sales, the number falls to 59% for those who only “hit the road”
tire sales are up 6.6% in 2010 versus 2009, indicating mo- twice a month.
torcyclists are still enthusiastic about the sport and riding.
In addition, motorcycle miles travelled increased by “ap- WEIRD NEWS: HEAD GAMES
proximately 5% last year, some 1.3 billion more miles than In Lagos, Nigeria, motorcycle taxis called “okada” are so
in 2008,” according to the MIC’s 2009 Motorcycle Owner dangerous in that local hospitals have special orthopedic
Survey. “In many ways, we are better poised for a come- wards meant just for people who have suffered accidents
back than ever,” said Ty van Hooydonk, communications while riding them. So you’d think a law requiring passengers
director for the council. to wear helmets would be welcomed. But it turns out that,
for many Nigerians, the only thing scarier than a motorcycle
CHINA BECOMES THE WORLD’S LARGEST MOTOR- taxi is a motorcycle helmet. Many people refuse to wear
CYCLE PRODUCER China has now overtaken Japan as them out of fear of juju, or supernatural powers. Some fret
the largest producer of motorcycles in the world. Yearly, 50 that previous passengers may have put nefarious juju spells
million motorcycles are produced worldwide, and China now on the helmets to steal someone’s good fortune, or to make
produces at least 27.5 million of that figure or a little more a person disappear in order to be used in a sacred ritual.
than 50% of the total world production. China has already “Our people are quite superstitious about anything dealing
taken over the top spot in world automobile production by with their head,” says Ralph Ibuzo, who created the “Origi-
producing more cars than Japan and the U.S. combined. nal Lapa Guard”, a cloth cap that he claims can protect
Interestingly, some historic American companies like wearers from disease and sudden disappearance. “People
Harley-Davidson are moving ahead for plans to produce believe that if you put on a helmet, [others] can take away
motorcycles in China, but whether they will be exported your brain, or your good luck,” he told the Wall Street Jour-
to the U.S. or simply sold in this Asian market is not quite nal, so the hygienic cap provides a thin layer of separation
known yet. The city of Chongqing has become China’s between the head and a helmet full of potential trouble.
motorcycle production center, with more than 10 million Aside from preventing paranormal paranoia, Mr. Ibuzo also
motorcycles a year coming out of this modern city alone. In has the law on his side as this sub-Saharan city enacted a
fact, four of five of the largest Chinese motorcycle brands traffic regulation last year that requires okada passengers
that produce over 1 million units a year come out of this city. to don helmets. But despite efforts at enforcement by city
China has more than 130 motorcycle brands. Expect to see officials and traffic police, most passengers refuse to wear
more powerful and modern motorcycles coming from China them out of concern about juju, widely feared throughout
as this nation seeks to become the largest and most power- West Africa.
ful economy in the world.
QUOTABLE QUOTE: “The two enemies of the people are
OLDER BIKERS HAVE MORE SEX criminals and government, so let us tie the second down
“Older single bikers are putting down more miles than their with the chains of the constitution so the second will not
married counterparts, if you know what we mean,” reported become the legalized version of the first.”
www.clutchandchrome.com about a recently released Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), 3rd President of the United
AARP sex survey. Although the study wasn’t specifically States and principal author of the Declaration of Indepen-
aimed at motorcycle enthusiasts, with a large part of riding dence
demographics firmly in the age bracket surveyed, the study
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 37
Colors, The Word Of The Day
by Tracy Link
Color was the word of the day at the 9th Annual Sherrie Parker Memorial Poker Run and Bike Show. It was a perfect day
for a ride, beginning with registration at Bayside Harley Davidson, on Sunday, October 24th 2010. With a mildly overcast
day and warm temperatures, the colors were out for a ride around town, culminating with a parade at Sleepy Hole Park in
Suffolk. Whether you were there to enjoy the rainbow of bikes or their equally diverse owners, you couldn’t help but notice
the reds and yellows of the changing trees and the peaks of sun that came shining out that day. Sherrie always loved a
perfect “fall color” day, out on her bike, enjoying her hometown.
The Sherrie Parker Memorial Poker Run and Bike Show is held every year, to coincide with Driver Days in Suffolk, raising
money for the Suffolk Humane Society, and the Driver Volunteer Fire Department. It is also a way to remember Sher-
rie Parker, a lifetime resident of Driver and a faithful rider. This years event exceeded everyone’s hopes, as the parade
began at Sleepy Hole Park and stretched through “downtown’’ Driver, and ended at the event site on the edge of town.
This year’s events included a bike show and a great mix of vendors sharing their wares. For those who knew Sherrie
well, they couldn’t help being reminded of how much she would have loved this annual, late October event. A beautifully
redesigned logo on the bright red t-shirts for this year’s run added another element to a colorful day. As a group of faithful
volunteers gear up for the upcoming 10th Anniversary celebration of this memorial run and bike show, this TAMA ap-
proved event promises to be bigger and better than ever. See Ya in Driver.

WHO READS THUNDER ROADS?

VFA-105 the “Gunslingers” standing the watch aboard the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman during
Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation New Dawn.

To get 12 monthly issues of Thunder Roads in the mail, send check or money order for $40, made payable to:
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 Greetings in the Name of our Mighty Savior.  I hope everyone had her mother in her.  She has her mom’s determination and that’s a
a merry Christmas and a blessed New Year.  Mine was wonderful.  good thing.  And she has Her Heavenly Daddy looking over her too!
Although I, as a mother, had to come face to face with a major  
milestone.  My daughter Katy, who is 23 moved out.  Katy has always Until next time, I love you and God loves you!          
been one that does things with extravagance.  She didn’t move to the Pastor T
next town or city.  She didn’t move to the next state.  No, Ms. Katy
moved across the United States, all the way to Portland, Oregon. 
How can I hang out with my best friend when she lives all the way
over there?
 Needless to say, I am not coping with this move very well.  If it
were up to me, I would keep her under one armpit and my 20 year old
son under the other forever.  But growth means change, so I have to
accept it. 
 It reminds me so much of the way our Father feels about us.  He
keeps us under His Mighty armpit while we are young but when the
time is right, He releases us to make our own choices.  We have to
make many decisions in life.  Some are good and some are the wrong
choices.  But He is always there to pick us up, dust us off and get
us going in the right direction again.  One thing about our Father, He
never asks us to explain where we have been or why we turned from
Him.  He doesn’t care about our past, only that we come back to Him,
He only cares about our future.  He cries when we fail, just like we cry
at some choices our children make.  That doesn’t mean we give up or
quit, we keep going and keep learning.
 We all go through struggles and milestones in our life but, Praise
God, He helps us through it.  No matter what we get ourselves into,
God always gives us a way to get out.  Sometimes we have to look
hard and seek His Face more, but the door is there.  And during these
times of struggle and confusion, there are lessons to be learned.  He
is teaching us things so we can rise to a higher level in Him. I always Pastor Tammy Hayes preaches at New Creation in Christ
see how some of the major struggles in my life turns around and Ministries in Dinwiddie, Virginia, a member of IPHC. 
allows me to minister to others when they are going through the She received a full ordination in non-denomination and is
same struggles.  Life is a big classroom and we learn as much as we currently working on her ordination in Pentecostal Holiness. 
can. You can obtain information about the church on the website
 Another way we have to learn is through the wisdom of the www.newcreationinchristministries.us 
“seasoned” people.  We celebrated my mama’s 88th birthday on
January 3rd.  We had her friends come over and had cake, ice cream,
Connect with Us
ham biscuits and finger foods.  But most of all we shared memories.  1 (800) 525-LOVE (5683)
They will always be with us.  She’s in remarkable health.  She bowls Every day, God uses
K-LOVE to make a differ-
every Thursday, she drives, goes fishing and every now and again, ence in millions of lives. By
she will go and pull them one arm bandits in Dover. Happy Birthday providing positive music and
inspirational stories, K-LOVE helps people draw closer to God. Unlike other
Ma Murl! radio stations, K-LOVE has a full time ministry team that processes over 100
phone calls a day of listeners in need of guidance. The pastors and staff at K-
 As we go through life, always look at things as a learning LOVE pray for over 1,000 prayer requests every day, and on average, intervene
experience.  Chalk it up in your memory to be used again at a later in one suicide case per day. If K-LOVE has impacted your life, it is because
generous listeners stepped out on faith to support the ministry of K-LOVE. We
date.  And when you get in those tight places, don’t forget to look for ask that you also take that step of faith and enable us to continue making a
positive difference in our world.
God’s exit door, because I promise you, it’s there.  “ Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. ”
 I know my Katy will be fine.  I gave her to God when she was born (Proverbs 13:20 NLT)
Thunder Roads Virginia is a K-LOVE Business Team Member. Find a station
and  know His Hand is on her life.  She will make it, she has a lot of near you at www.klove.com

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 39

 Tattoo Of The Month

Black Ice
Black ice, sometimes called “glare ice” or “clear
ice”, refers to a thin coating of glazed ice on a
surface. While it’s not truly black, it is virtually
transparent, allowing black asphalt/macadam
roadways to be seen through it, which is where
the term “black ice” comes from. The typically low
levels of noticeable ice pellets, snow, or sleet sur-
rounding black ice means that areas of the ice are
often practically invisible to drivers and thereby
do not serve as a good indicator that they should
reduce their speeds.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 40

 The People Of Walmart

CLASH VS. CLASS - For this installment of ‘Who Wears It RISE & SHINE - Cup of coffee, grab the newspa-
Better’, we see how pink is done on the east coast. I have to per, let the dog out to tinkle, return a few shop-
admit, I’m a huge fan of going the extra mile to accessorize ping carts….typical morning routine. Virginia
with the striped socks, bag, and glitter hat. But at the same
time how does one go against church pink and that fancy thing
on her head. Uuggh, it’s another tough one. So who wears it
better? Pennsylvania & Virginia

HALF AND HALF - I can’t decide if I

THE MULLET’S STEPSISTER -
Ahhh yes, the rare asexual female
rat tail. Although rare, unfortunately
they are not yet extinct. Virginia
HOW DO YOU FIT ALL OF THAT IN
DEM JEANS? - Excuse me ma’am, if
you want to head back to automotive
we can have that spare tire fixed up in
a jiffy. Virginia
want the Sinead O’Connor look or the
always stylish mullet. I’ll just get the
best of both worlds and put a brown
stripe in between so people can pick
which they like best. Virginia

SWEET UNDIES PART DEUX -
How unbelievably fortunate are we
that someone else was able to grab
a close-up of this local legend?
Maryland
FIRST BLOOD - I don’t see what
they’re laughing…oh my God! You
snuck up on me there Rambette!
Geez, you are stealthy!
North Carolina
PETTY FAMOUS ‘ROUND THESE
PARTS - What do you do when your
driving career in NASCAR is over? If
you answered “hang out at Walmart”
you are correct. North Carolina

Be sure to check out more of these wonderfully special

folks at www.peopleofwalmart.com

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 41

 Hot Plates

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 42

TRADITIONAL NEW YEAR’S DAY “GOOD LUCK BLACK EYE PEAS” PEACH-GLAZED FILET MIGNONS
My mom used to cook a “good luck brisket” every New Year’s 2 Filet Mignons (apprx. 6 oz. each)
Day, but I prefer the Southern tradition of making a big pot of salt & ground black pepper to taste
Black Eye Peas and throwing in scraps of ham left over from 1 tsp. Canola Oil
Christmas. 1/4 cup Peach Preserves
1 Regular size bag of uncooked Black Eye Peas 2 Tbls. Chicken Broth
Scraps of leftover ham from Christmas, or else just 5 cans of 1 Tbls. Balsamic Vinegar
shredded, canned ham (found in same aisle as tuna fish) or a 2 tsp. Minced Cilantro
cooked ham butt; cubed up 3/4 tsp. Ground Ancho Chili Pepper
3 Cans of small, boiled white potatoes 1 Garlic Clove; minced
1/2 Bag of frozen, baby carrots Salt & pepper filets. In a large skillet (cast iron if have)cook filets
1/2 Bag of frozen, baby pearl onions in oil over medium heat for apprx. 7 minutes on each side.
salt & pepper to taste (longer if like med-well). In small bowl, combine the rest of
1 Full Box of quality Chicken Stock ingredients and pour directly onto fillets and cook for apprx. 2
2 Cups of Water minutes or until glaze is heated through. Gives this superb cut
1/2 stick of real Butter of meat a great mellow, fruity flavor.
Fill pot w/ water and pour beans into colander and pick out bad
ones. Dump peas into water, add chicken stock, butter and salt PEAR FRITTERS ALA’ MODE
& pepper and a few dashes of Louisianne Hot Sauce. Cook long 1 Cup of Whole Milk
& slow on medium heat. About 2 hours until peas are tender. 1 Egg; beaten
Add your potatoes, carrots and pearl onions. Cook additional 2 tsps. Sugar
20 mins. You want consistency to be like a stew, but not thin like 1 tsp. Ground Cinnamon
a soup. Click your spoons, say a wish for the New Year and eat 1 Cup Sour Cream
up! Serve w/ hot, buttered garlic-cheese bread and a big, green 1 Cup Self-Rising Flour
Ceasar salad. 2 Cans of Whole Pears; patted dry thoroughly
*Put drained juice off to the side
OLDE’ FASHIONED HOT BUTTERED RUM You can also use fresh pears that are cored
1 Cup Real Butter; softened Pure Canola Oil for frying
1/2 Cup Confectioner’s Sugar Whisk together milk, egg, sugar, cinnamon and sour cream. Add
1/2 Cup Packed Brown Sugar or Real Maple Syrup flour. Set aside. Take your patted dry pear and gently dip into
2 Cups Vanilla Ice-Cream; softened (use a Premium kind) batter mix, place on slotted spoon and gently lower
1 tsp. Ground Cinnamon into heated, hot Canola oil. Fry until golden brown Top with the
1 tsp. Ground Nutmeg below suggestions for a really special treat after a great meal.
In Each Serving: * Good, Quality Vanilla Ice Cream
1/2 Cup Boiling Water * French Vanilla Ice Cream
1 to 3 Tbls. Dark Rum * Heated Pear Syrup Left Over
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. * Heated Maple Syrup Drizzled Over
Beat in the ice-cream, cinnamon and nutmeg. Cover and store * Cinnamon-Sugar Sprinkled Over Top
in the freezer. For each serving, place 1/2 cup of butter mixture * Confectioner’s Sugar Sprinkled All Over
in a mug; add boiling water and stir to dissolve Stir in rum.
Make up a batch of these for hanging around the fireplace or HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL YOU FUN LOVIN’
for just hanging around the pool if you’re lucky enough this time GOOD EATIN’ BIKERS! AVOID STRESS AND START THE DIET IN
of year to be in weather that permits, or next to an indoor pool. FEBRUARY....BY THEN THERE WILL BE LESS ROOKIES AT THE
(call me!) GYM.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 43

 Beth & Bo Albert had put up a new flag pole in their
yard and walked out the next day to find this feath-
ered fellow checking out the view from up top. He
wouldn’t stick around long for a photoshoot.
Advertisers Index – January 2011
Affordable Military Services.........................................................…42
ASX Motorcycle Parts…...............................................................19
Big Daddy’z Cycles……......................................................………19
Biker’s Depot…..............................................................................40
Cavelli’s….................................................................................16
Dakota Cobbler’s…........................................................................42
Dennis’ Truck & Trailer Repair…....................................................19
Departure Bike Works….........................................................….16
Diva Customs & Jason’s Garage...............................................…7
Dynojet……........................................................…Inside Back Cover
Grumpy’s Bar & Grill…..................................................................35
Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson...............................................…20
J.M. Randalls……...........................................................................15
Liberty Biker Church...................................................................….27
OKLAHOMA
Northeast Motorcycle 405-409-5742Back Cover
Expo (Event)...............…Outside
Rick “Preacher” Saunders Devotional........................................…42
Timonium Motorcycle Show (Event)…Outside Front Cover, page 1 & 24
Tom McGrath’s Motorcycle Law Group.............…Inside Front Cover
Wright Sign Service…....................................................................27

BACK
In The Day
I recently took a class at a conference on the parking
of vehicles on highways and roadways during an emer-
gency situation. It was extremely informative, these types
of classes usually are. During one of the many videos that
we viewed during the class, I noticed that there was a
motorcycle police officer that was working an accident on
a busy suburban boulevard, along with other emergency
vehicles on the scene. Many emergency vehicles are
the target of secondary collisions at the original accident

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 44