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LEESBURG SCENIC RIDE MAP ARE YOU A RESPONSIBLE RIDER? NEWS, VIEWS, & EVENT PHOTOS
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THE MAGAZINE WITH A MAPgofarmag.com
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W Burleigh Blvd
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SilverLake
Tavares
Eustis
GrandIsland
BassvillePark
LEESBURG SCENIC RIDE MAPARE YOU A RESPONSIBLE RIDER?NEWS, VIEWS, & EVENT PHOTOS
April 2014SERVING FLORIDA’S
MOTORCYCLE & TRIKE COMMUNITY
47th Terrace, Cape Coral, Florida - (239)573-3123
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Go For A Ride Magazine14907 W. Hardy DriveTampa, FL 33613(813) [email protected]
PUBLISHER & EDITOR: M. G. Savidge
CO-PUBLISHER: C.M. Struble
ART DIRECTION: DANG-designs.com
DIRECTOR OF SALES, MARKETING & PRO-MOTIONSKruisin’ With Kati
CARTOGRAPHER: Mary Rostad
CARTOONIST: Harry Martin Word Puzzle Guru: McGreggor
FEATURE CONTRIBUTORSM.W. SimpsonHyway RebelKatie RiddermanLowell AndersonBrad SoudersJeffry E. KohnKip BickfordJim “Wheels” LeathermanRikki
SALES DEPARTMENT: 813-505-5119
Florida Sales DirectorKati Ridderman239-246-3045 • [email protected]
Manatee/SarasotaDon Koppin941-812-1383 Cocoa/Daytona/OrlandoPhil Rucki321-544-4012 • [email protected] Fort Lauderdale/Miami (Distribution)Huck Hennebery [email protected]
Collier CountyRikki 239-494-0508 [email protected]
Jacksonville/St AugustineGrace Lord [email protected]
Heartland AreaVicky [email protected]
Port St. Lucie AreaCristie Wyant772-204-1374
West Palm Beach AreaTim Davis561-667-8977
Cover Photo Info: Photographer - M.W. SimpsonRider -Sandy Juettner of Apollo Beach, FL Bike - 2013 HarleyDavidson Fat Boy Low
THE MAGAZINE WITH A MAPgofarmag.com
27
441
448
452
452
561
501
466A
49
44
468
48
27
44
27
4444
44500
19
19
Num
ber 2 Rd
L a k eH a r r i s
L a k eE u s t i s
S i l v e rL a k e
L a k eG r i � n
L a k eD e n h a m
L a k eO k a h u m p k a
L a k eD e a t o n
L a k e D o r aFlorida Turnpike
Morse Blv
d
Buena Vist
a Blvd
Miller Blvd
Citrus Blvd
North Blvd W
Gri�n Rd
W. Main St
E Alfred St
S Bay St
Dora Av
Radi
o Rd
Creek Rd
W Burleigh Blvd
Emer
ald
Av
E C 470
Start/End
Leesburg
Yalaha
SilverLake
Tavares
Eustis
GrandIsland
BassvillePark
LEESBURG SCENIC RIDE MAPARE YOU A RESPONSIBLE RIDER?NEWS, VIEWS, & EVENT PHOTOS
April 2014SERVING FLORIDA’S
MOTORCYCLE & TRIKE COMMUNITY
The Usual Legal DisclaimerGo For A Ride Magazine (GoFAR) is published monthly and distributed for FREE. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. Publisher will assume no financial responsibility for errors in any advertising beyond reimbursing the advertiser for the cost of the ad. To the best of the Publisher’s knowledge, all materials furnished or used in this publication are accurate, correct, and truthful. Go For A Ride Magazine assumes no liability for errors, omissions, or typos. The advertiser or advertising agency assumes full liability for all content to include text and illustrations. This magazine will not be subject to any liability for any failure to publish or circulate all or any part of any issue or issues because of strikes, work stoppages, accidents, fires, acts of God, or any other circumstances not within the control of this magazine. All copy is subject to the publisher’s approval and the publisher reserves the right to refuse any ad.
Motorcycle Riders throughout the state of Florida have made this magazine one of the most widely read motorcycle publications in the Sunshine State!
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Features4 Let Me Tell Ya’4 Road Rash Cartoon6 Newswire8 Slogans vs. Responsibility10 Wheel’n Across America13 Pro Long Distance Rider14 Honda Gold Wing Valkyrie15 Word Puzzle16 Leesburg Likes To Eat18 Biker With A Badge20 Watch Out For Motorcycles22 Scenic Ride Map24 Leslie Kay’s Insurance26 Veterans Info28 Road Trippin’30 Upcoming Events32 Kruisin With Kati34 Fort Myers Locator Map35 Word Puzzle Answers36 Off Road38 Fort Myers Bike Night Photos39 Lake O Business Map42 Rollin’ With Rikki42 Under The Bridge Photos44 Trikes By Design44 Bike Nights
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Mike Savidge
Responsibility
As Bike Week was underway in Daytona Beach this year, I noticed that the electronic message boards on the interstate by my house had added a new twist to the usual “Look Twice for Motorcycles” slogan, which they’ve run before in an effort to make the other drivers aware of us motorcycle riders. There was a second follow-on message this year directed at the bikers themselves – “Ride Responsibly”.
So I pulled out my trusty copy of Merriam-Webster and found three definitions for the word ‘responsible’. 1 – Having the job or duty of dealing with or taking care of something or someone.2 – Able to be trusted to do what is right or do the things that are expected or required.3 – Involving important duties, decisions, etc., that you are trusted to do.
Now, I’m sure more than a few of you are thinking, “Well, they’ve got a lot of nerve saying something like that!” Imagine, someone being so bold as to ask you to assume some of the workload when it comes to surviving the flocks of rude and distracted drivers who cruise Florida’s highways and byways. It’s the cars, trucks, buses, minivans, atv’s, golf carts, and all the other vehicles who are the reason motorcycle riding is so dangerous. Right? All of us who ride know that. Well, actually, it’s not that way at all. The biggest cause of motorcycle accidents in Florida are curves in the roadway. Guiding a motorcycle through a curve is apparently quite a challenge for some of us. (I’ll tell you more about that problem in an upcoming issue.)
No doubt there are a lot of people out there who are behind the wheels of vehicles and are not fully mentally connected to the task at hand. They’re shirking their responsibility to drive safely and legally and are more likely to be the one responsible for causing a traffic crash. See you were right, it is somebody else’s fault. However, as a motorcyclist, you also have a responsibility to avoid putting you, and your ride and your passenger, in a situation that could cause you injury or death.
Yes, there are definitely some crashes that are unavoidable. Life is like that. Crap happens. But there are also a lot of times when you’re riding and you have the choice of being right and risking injury or death or being smart and taking a course of action that keeps you out of harm’s way.
During the most recent meeting of the Florida Motorcycle Safety Coalition, I had an opportunity to hear someone speak about being a responsible rider and it made an impression on me. According to Kip Bickford, who’s been a rider and an instructor for a long time, a lot of the blame for motorcycle crashes can be traced back to the rider and that rider’s actions. He made the point that no matter how long you’ve been riding, or how high your skill level, you still have to constantly have your mind in the game and look for ways to avoid trouble. I asked Kip if I could share his story with you and you’ll find it a few pages further along in this issue.
And then our talented friend Mr. Simpson, who also photographed this month’s cover, reinforced the responsibility theme in his monthly Biker With A Badge column. I guess it didn’t occur to me that someone would actually have to tell you that you need to pay attention when you’re riding a motorcycle. But looking at the accident statistics, it appears quite a few of us have our minds somewhere else than on the road. Or, we’re making the mistake of thinking all those signs, slogans, and bumper stickers are going to get the other drivers to pay attention. That hasn’t happened and it isn’t likely to change.
If you ride, you need to go back to the beginning of this column and make sure you understand what being responsible means. It could mean your life.
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PUBLISHERS CORNERLET ME TELL YA!
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‘Why We Ride’ Motorcycling Documentary Available For Instant
Download February 18th, 2014 - Los Angeles, CA – Producer/
Director Bryan H. Carroll and Producer James Walker are pleased to announce that Why We Ride is now available for audiences worldwide on digital platforms.
For the first time, fans from across six continents will be able to share in the documentary that has brought the motorcycle community together in a celebration of what it means to be a rider. Beginning on February 18th, Why We Ride will be available across all of iTunes’ and Amazon’s stores worldwide.
Bryan H. Carroll: “Motorcycling is about sharing and it’s a real privilege to be able to share this film with the international motorcycling community. Making this film wouldn’t have been possible without the support of motorcyclist around the world, and sharing our story with everyone who has ever ridden a bike has been our dream all along.”
Winner of the 2014 Family Choice Award, the 2014 AMA Hazel Kolb Brighter Image Award, the 2014 Portland Motorcycle Film Fest, and the 2013 Motorcycle Film Fest, Why We Ride has been shown at over 200 fan hosted screenings across the United States.
To download your personal copy of Why We Ride today, go to iTunes or Amazon online.
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MILWAUKEE, WI. (March 6, 2014) – Harley-Davidson® (NYSE:HOG) is at it again. Fresh off the unveiling of the new Harley-Davidson Street™ 750 and the launch of Project RUSHMORE, the company unleashed today two new motorcycles that expand its diverse line-up of street bikes, and put more models for more riders on the showroom floor of each Harley-Davidson dealer.
The mid-year release of the retro-cool Low Rider® and rangy SuperLow® 1200T completes the largest new-model launch in Harley-Davidson’s 110-year history and keeps the throttle pinned on the company’s accelerated, customer-led product-development process.
“It’s been a fantastic six months for us,” said Matt Levatich, Harley-Davidson Motor Company President and Chief Operating Officer. “First Project RUSHMORE, then Harley-Davidson Street, now the new SuperLow 1200T and Low Rider models -- all are the result of being customer led and delivering riders the technical prowess and rebellious spirit that they want infused in each and every new Harley.”
Low Rider In 1977, Harley-Davidson created a ride-it-hard, put-it-away dirty, make-your-own-boundaries custom motorcycle that became an icon — the Low Rider. Today that defiant attitude returns with a vengeance as the legendary Low Rider model name is reprised for an all-new cruiser that rolls with old-school class and exciting new performance. A polished headlamp visor, wrinkle black trim, and split five-spoke aluminum wheels are touchstone styling
elements from the original Low Rider model. The unrelenting thrust of the Twin Cam 103™
powertrain signals departure with a satisfying, throaty tone through twisting header pipes feeding a 2-into-1 exhaust. Suspension is calibrated for all-day comfort and precise handling, while dual-front disc brakes deliver capable stopping power. The new adjustable seat and handlebar risers enable a perfect fit for more riders. Ample Genuine Motor Accessories offer endless possibilities for self-expression, so any rider can own the look and own the road.
SuperLow 1200T Harley-Davidson opens the door to touring adventure with the SuperLow 1200T, a motorcycle that combines a nimble chassis with essential touring features and the power to ride to the horizon. A detachable windshield, locking saddlebags and Michelin® Scorcher™ 11T touring tires are standard equipment. Docking points accommodate detachable accessory racks and backrests for ease of customization.
A new seat and control ergonomics are shaped specifically to give more riders long-distance comfort. The SuperLow 1200T can run with the pack thanks to the power of a 1200cc Evolution® V-Twin engine, and it weighs 118 pounds less than the lightest Harley-Davidson Big Twin touring motorcycle. The finish is premium Harley-Davidson with aluminum wheels, an available two-tone paint scheme and plenty of brilliant chrome.
To swing a leg over a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle visit h-d.com to find a local dealer.
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NEWSWIRE HARLEY-DAVIDSON BUSTS OUT TWO MORE NEW
BIKES THE RETURN OF THE REBELLIOUS LOW RIDER &TOUR-READY SUPERLOW
1200T REVEALED
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With the purchase of any NEW 2014 BIG TWIN HARLEY-DAVIDSON® MOTORCYCLE between
April 1st and 31st, 2014
With the purchase of any NEW 2014 BIG TWIN HARLEY-DAVIDSON® MOTORCYCLE between
April 1st and 31st, 2014
Slogans vs. Responsibilities – Do you want to be dead right?By Kip BickfordFlorida Rider Training Program“Share the Road”, “Look twice for Motorcycles”,
“Don’t Drink and Ride”, “Look Twice, Save a Life”, “Watch for Motorcycles”, “Don’t Text and Drive” . . . and the one I favor the most . . . “Look Twice, Save My Life”. As I’m searching the internet, I see the vast majority of safety slogans that reference motorcycles allude to the fact that it is the “cager’s” (automobile/driver) job to make sure motorcyclists are safe on the roads. I am not sure how you think, but if anyone is responsible to keep me safe, I’d be the first to say “That’s me!”
Think about this . . . When was the last time you were out for a ride, or on your way home from work, and you said to yourself, “That was a boring ride.” You have reached your destination only to realize that you can’t recall specific details of the trip, but you somehow made it home okay – kind of like being in auto-pilot mode. Let’s face it; the main people who are concerned about you are your family, and they need you to make it home safe. Your loved ones need and depend on you. Your son will always expect you to give him direction and guidance. Your daughter will, providing you even let her date, want her father to walk her down the aisle one day. Your better half will be expecting to share the later years in life together. If you haven’t noticed already, I must point out that the key word in all of these statements is “you”.
As motorcyclists, we have all heard “Share the Road”. I would like to challenge you to take that statement a step further in your thought process. I think we need to complete this slogan with “Share the Responsibility”. I am not a person all about statistics, but there is one study, The Hurt report, that states 60% of all crashes involving a motorcycle and an automobile result in the automobile/driver being at fault. In fact, a more recent study shows that number has gone up. As we look at that number, we see it supports all of the bumper stickers and campaigns that tend to indicate the automobile/driver is responsible for the crash with the motorcyclist. You may even be thinking to yourself right now – see, even the study shows that we are right; it’s the cagers who are in the wrong; it’s the cagers who are to blame for the crashes most
of the time. Based on the study, you’re right! You have a right to be on the road, just as the cagers do. The one big difference is, however, that you can be dead right. Being dead right means that now that son of yours will have no one to look up to; now that daughter of yours will not have you to walk her down the aisle; and your better half will have no one to share the rest of their life with. You get the picture, I hope.
We can talk training and we can talk about riding legal - you know - getting endorsed. I can only hope that being trained and riding legal would be the answer to a long, healthy, and safe riding life, but that isn’t really the answer to this problem; not completely anyway. As a trained and endorsed rider,
you already have the tools and skills to avoid 90% of the crashes involving a cager and a motorcycle. The important question is, however, do you have the proper attitude and is your head in the game?
I want you to think outside the box for a moment and I need you to keep an open mind. The blame for the outcome of these crashes does not fall solely on the automobile. You, as the motorcyclist, have multiple opportunities to place yourself in a position of no or little risk. The Hurt report previously referenced also clearly stated that “Had the motorcyclist been operating as they were trained to, over 90% of the crashes between an automobile and motorcycle could have been avoided.” As roadway users, we have had the opportunity of assuming the cager role and know that, while driving an automobile, it is very easy to miss seeing motorcycles and bicycles. As motorcyclists, we ride and have the training and knowledge that bikes, of any kind, are hard to see.
Now, let’s look at it from a different perspective. Do you operate your vehicle as you did when you first learned, or are you way more relaxed, and feel as if you have everything under control? Do you listen to the radio or talk to passengers? Do you grab a quick lunch somewhere, and eat and ride? Do you answer the phone (on Bluetooth, of course) or are you thinking about work, the family or the weekend? And the real question . . . Have you left home and arrived at work only to be thinking to yourself, “I made it, but I do not even remember passing the store I always stop at for coffee.” Well . . . . have you? And in that instant, you realize that you may not have made it to your destination safely.
Let me tell you about a friend of mine that recently
lost his life one day while riding his motorcycle to work. My friend is a certified RiderCoach. He wears all of the required safety gear, including a helmet, when he rides. His day begins as usual. It’s 5:00 am and he is getting ready for work. He jumps on his bike and begins his journey. At approximately 6:00 am, he was taking his usual route and had been traveling on one of the area main roads. While he was in route, a vehicle was approaching a stop sign on a side road that intersected with the main road. The vehicle was observed by others as stopping at the stop sign; however the vehicle pulled out and struck the motorcycle, ejecting my friend. He died at the scene.
Although I know my friend was doing everything he was supposed to do, I still wonder if he could have done more. I have so many questions I would like to ask him, like, “Was your head in the game?” I would like to be able to ask each and every individual whose life ended while riding their motorcycle the exact same thing, but I can’t. I can, however, put the question to you and challenge you to pay attention, be responsible for the safe operation of your vehicle and not allow strangers to be responsible for your safety. I challenge you to not become a statistic.
These are just some of the things you can do to reduce your risk.
1. Be Legal – Get educated, licensed, endorsed.2. Focus - Remember whether you ride or drive,
it’s a full time job and it requires your full attention.3. Plan Ahead - Allow yourself plenty of time to
get where you need to be; prior planning will help.4. Use What You Know - Reduce your speed prior
to entering an intersection and scan aggressively.5. Dress for the Ride - When you are
uncomfortable, you can’t stay focused. I support wearing full riding gear, but that’s little help if you don’t apply everything else.
6. Ride in View With a View - Place yourself where you are sure you can be seen.
7. Be Seen - I know it’s hard to do, but at least on rainy or foggy days have a reflective vest available.
If you ride, I’m sure you know that you may be viewed as being part of social categories that range from the “Hardcore Biker” to “Weekend Warrior” to “the occasional rider”. I see each of you as a Mother, Father, Brother, Sister, Son, Daughter, Grandpa, Grandma, Aunt, Uncle or just a friend and fellow biker.
So now you have been challenged to not become a statistic; to be there for your family. What do you do now? You could take more training and gain new skills. You could wear all of your safety gear on every ride. Heck, you could even wear a helmet all the time. All that is great but, I must point out that there is one thing that you have available to you right now that will go a long way to saving your life, and that is common sense. You have the ability to self-assess your actions or lack thereof in order to make the right decision. Your attitude will play a big part as well. We, as motorcyclists, will always be harder to see, but it is the motorcyclists that will always end up being the worst for wear in a crash. So, keep the attitude in check. You might be in the right, but you don’t want to be dead right.
Share the Road – Share the Responsibility
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GO FOR A RIDE MAGAZINEWheel’n Across AmericaBy Jim “Wheels” Leatherman
It seems like 2005 was just yesterday, and I was traveling to St. Pete, FL to train for the 1996 Paralympics which would be held in Atlanta. I was a member of the US Disabled Sailing Team and when in town to train, I would stay at my buddy Bob’s house in Treasure Island, FL. I can clearly remember the day I arrived at his house and opened the garage door to see not one, but two Trikes in his garage (Bob had all the toys). One was a Harley and the other a GL1800 Goldwing. Having lost my legs at the age of 6, as a result of a train accident, I had never ridden a bicycle, let alone anything like a Motorcycle Trike. Bob was also a double leg amputee, so the Trikes were basically set up so that we both could ride. Problem was, I had no clue how to ride, but boy was I in for a life altering lesson.
The weather was horrible for sailing. 85 degrees and NO WIND, with a bright blue, sunny sky. So, it only seemed logical to me that I needed to “Go for a Ride!” I pestered my buddy Bob until he finally gave in and as we rolled out into the garage, and he told me to jump up on one. Well, I had not a clue as to which Trike was what, so as I was about to make my decision, I was instructed to take the Honda. I was like a kid at Christmas. I quickly jumped up on the Goldwing and was all ready to go. Problem was, I had no idea where I was going or more importantly, how I was going to start the Trike and have it take me there. Bob, by now with the Harley roaring, yelled over to me to “start the bike.” No problem I figured and I turned the key. NOTHING!!!! I was disappointed in that I thought the bike was in need of repair. Well, Bob hollers over and instructs me to “push the reverse button in,” to which I am now really confused, yet I did as I was told and thankfully, as I was about to fall over backwards, I inadvertently pulled in the clutch (what was a clutch?), squeezed the hand brake as I tried to regain my balance, and thus saved the washer and dryer. By now Bob had turned off the Harley and after laughing till his sides hurt, realized that I was in need of a complete
training program. Finally the time had come and we had the Trikes out on his street, at the end of the cul-de-sac. My neck still hurts from all the bucking and lurching, but I finally did master that clutch thing.
The next day arrived and wouldn’t ya know it. Miserable weather again . . . for a sailor, but not for a new “Triker.” I pestered my buddy until he gave in and agreed that we would ride a little more. Well, after the hundredth time of riding up, down, and around his street and cul-de-sac, we arrived yet again at the stop sign at the end of the street. I was so wishing that we would make a left and head out, but prayed that we would make a right and let me practice some more. As we sat at the intersection, I could see that twinkle in my buddy’s eye and before I know it, we were off to the beach. I rode the Trike for over 25 miles that day and when I returned, I told my buddy that there was no way he could ride two Trikes at the same time, thus he “was” going to sell one of them to me. I left for home the next day and was more excited than at any time in my life about this thing they call “motorcycling.”
Well, a few months had gone by and I was beginning to think that my buddy would not sell one of the Trikes. In typical fashion, the house phone rang one evening and it was Bob. He called to say that he was 3 miles from the house and that I better get everyone outside. Sure enough, about the time we got out, here he was backing this extremely long trailer down my drive way. It was then that my wife asked, “what the heck is going on?” Right after that, we opened the door to the trailer and Bob proclaimed, “here is your Trike” to which my wife said . . . well, let’s just say she said, “what the heck is going on here.” I quickly had Bob get her on the back of his Trike with him (the Harley) and take her for a spin. IT WORKED. She got off the Trike after a ride around the neighborhood and like me, proclaimed, “I want one of these.”
Since that time, my wife and I have ridden to many wonderful places around the country together. Utah, Colorado, Nevada, Nova Scotia, Maine, and of course all over Florida. In total I had, since 2005, over 176,000 miles of riding under my belt and have had more fun than anyone should be allowed. I quickly realized that my riding has opened the door for others to consider this great endeavor as well. I am often approached to help others with disabilities to master riding. On many occasions I have traveled to Walter Reed and Bethesda, along with working with various Wounded Warrior programs to share insight and encouragement to our returning Veterans making sure that they also know that they can ride for the first time, or return to the sport that they loved.
There is still a great deal of this country of ours that I plan to have my Hannigan Goldwing Trike take my wife and me, and many more miles to add to our riding resume. Go for a ride you say? You bet. Give me a holler anytime. Looking forward to seeing you out on the road. I’ll be the guy on that bright red Hannigan Trike with a wheelchair on the fender and bugs in my teeth from all the smiles to the miles.
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Nobody Likes To Be Ignored… Not Even Your Bike! Even When You’re Not Riding!By Jeffrey E. KohnPro Long Distance RiderPreventive care for your motorcycle is important. We are very lucky to live in South Florida where almost every day is a great day to ride but sometimes bikes are stored for months, or years, at a time. Before you store your bike, take these preventive measures.Shelter It should be in a safe environment. Inside storage is best, either in your own garage, or at a commercial storage facility. Maybe your local dealership offers this service. If you don’t have access to indoor storage, make sure you at least park the bike on a sheet of plywood and cover it up. Modern covers made from high tech materials do a good job of keeping the elements at bay, while allowing air to circulate so moisture doesn’t stick around. Cycles stored inside can also benefit from a protective shield of breathable material. It will keep dirt off and may discourage children from playing on it. If the area can be accessed by rodents, consider placing traps (unless you have pets or children) to keep mice from gnawing on wires and hoses or nesting. Also, try not to store a motorcycle where someone may trip on it, tip it over, drop something on it, or dent it with a car or house door.
Gas Before storing your motorcycle for any extended period of time, you’re going to want to top off the fuel with fresh gasoline to avoid contamination. As the weather changes, moisture in the reservoir will condense and form rust. If rust can be prevented then only a fool wouldn’t take this suggestion. This is one of those “musts”. Failure to prep the fuel system before storing your bike is a common and very costly oversight. Gasoline deteriorates over time, and old gas forms deposits that can clog filters, carburetor jets and passages, and fuel injectors. The phase varies considerably with temperature, fuel blend, additives, and venting but typically begins after about two months of inactivity. Cleaning a fuel system and a set of carbs may cost hundreds of dollars. To avoid this, add a fuel stabilizer, you can find it in motorcycle and auto parts stores. Be sure to follow directions and then start the engine. Let it run long enough so the stabilizer can work its way through the fuel system and get into small parts and passageways.
Battery If you’re storing your bike in a garage or other place where it will not freeze, there’s no need to remove the battery. However, you should clean the terminals and leads and lubricate them with dielectric grease to prevent corrosion. A battery tender is a good idea, too. They’ll maintain your battery’s charge, keeping it in good condition and ready to go the moment you are.
Oil Warm up the engine and change the oil and filter just prior to putting the bike away. Dirty oil contains contaminates that can increase corrosion, leading to premature engine wear. Start by firing up the engine and let it run for several minutes to get everything up to operating temperature. Then, drain the old oil, change the filter, and refill the engine with whatever viscosity is recommended by your owner’s manual. There’s no need for any special “winter” blend or oil additive. When used motor oil is left in an engine during storage, moisture and acids created during combustion, along with other crud form sludge and may etch or eat away at metal surfaces (including bearings). Coolant Liquid-cooled engines require more attention because their antifreeze breaks down over time, eventually becoming acidic and causing corrosion inside the engine and cooling system. When water is added the antifreeze protection is reduced, and if it is insufficient, severe damage may result if the coolant freezes. Coolant should be tested for freeze protection with a hydrometer or test strip before storing the motorcycle, and the cooling system should be cleaned and flushed (and antifreeze replaced) every two years or so, or as recommended.
Tires Avoid storing your bike in direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure causes tires to split, crack, become less pliable, and ultimately fail. Tires lose pressure gradually, and leaving them under-inflated may cause flat spots and sidewall cracks, which will shorten their safe service life. Make sure you keep them at the recommended pressure, and occasionally move the bike slightly to help prevent flat spots. Use the centerstand, if your bike has one.
Clean & Service The Bike Now’s a good time to wash your bike by hand, then apply a good coat of wax. Just make sure it’s 100 percent dry before you cover it up and lock it away. The lubricant in the control cables may dry out during storage, causing throttle and clutch (where applicable) cables to bind or even break. Grease the cables with a quality cable lube. Special lubrication kits are available from most motorcycle shops. Clean around the cylinder heads and remove the spark plugs. Wipe them down with something like WD40 and squirt some into the cylinders via the spark plug holes. This will keep the cylinder walls lubricated, again protecting against your worst enemy — corrosion. Reinstall the plugs and, if your
bike has carbs, now’s the time to make sure the float bowls are drained and the fuel is switched off. Once the exhaust pipes have cooled for the final time, you can spray some WD40 down the exit — just a small amount is sufficient — then cover the ends with plastic bags. This will prevent moisture from creeping through the exhaust and into the engine. To ensure they’re air tight, zip ties or rubber bands can help.
Outdoor Protection For those of you who don’t have a place in the house to keep your motorcycle, get a sturdy outdoor cover with a waterproof, snug-fitting design that won’t blow off. If you’re stowing it for more than a few months outside (even under cover) or in a high-humidity area, remove the spark plug(s), add about a teaspoon of motor oil into each cylinder, place a rag over the opening, and crank the engine over briefly to circulate the lubricant. Once you have done this, reinstall the plug(s). Also spray a coating of marine fogging oil (sold at boating stores) over metal components to help prevent rust.
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2014 ValkyrieLegendary Power, Groundbreaking StyleHere’s the formula: Take the Honda’s legendary 1832cc flat six and build it into the ultimate cruiser—powerful, awe-inspiring and like no other. Now add in great handling and iconic style, and you’ll see why it’s the cruiser that only Honda could build.
Earth Stopping Power! Honda’s Valkyrie. Pure hot-rod. Bolder and more outrageous than anything else on the road.Six-Cylinder 1832cc EngineThe Gold Wing’s opposed six is a motorcycling icon. Take that powerhouse and plug it into a cruiser chassis and you have a machine like no other.Laid-Back SeatingCruisers are as American as apple pie, and for good reason: they’re fun and comfortable. When you’re talking about a Honda Valkyrie, everything is even more fun and more comfortable.Fresh New StyleThe Valkyrie doesn’t look like most other cruisers because it’s not. It’s bigger and more powerful so we gave it a whole new styling treatment, too.
2014 HONDA VALKYRIE SPECIFICATIONSEngine Type: 1832cc liquid-cooled horizontally opposed six-cylinderInduction: PGM-FIIgnition: Computer-controlled digital with 3-D mappingValve Train: SOHC; two valves per cylinderTransmission: Five-SpeedFinal Drive: ShaftFront Suspension: 45mm cartridge fork with anti-dive system, 4.8 inches travelRear Suspension: Pro Arm® single-side swingarm with Pro-Link® single shock with remote-controlled spring preload adjustment, 4.1 inches travel
Front Brakes: Dual 310mm discsRear Brake: 316mm rear disc
Front Tire: 130/60R-19Rear Tire: 180/55R-17
Wheelbase: 67.1 inchesSeat Height: 28.9 inchesFuel Capacity: 6 Gallons
Curb Weight: 752 pounds (Includes all standard equip-
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You’ll find this bike and the entire Honda line at Rick Case Honda in Davie, FL.
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What’s In A Name?By McGreggorBack in the day there used to be a TV show called Real People which featured stories about real people doing weird things. This month’s puzzle might be entitled Unreal People. The answers to the clues are all fictional characters from books, movies, mythology, comics, and television. As usual, answers found on page 43.
Across
1. Mr. _____ was played by Leonard Nimoy4. Trades you cash for used molars6. Bedrock’s Fred ________8. Forrest ____10. Son of Zeus, symbol of strength12. Juliet’s love15. _____ Vader19. Wonder _____20. Gotham City hometown hero24. Willy _____ loved chocolate27. Twain’s companion to Huck30. The flying squirrel31. ______ the Menace
Down
1. Most know Ebenezer by his last name2. Steal from rich, give to poor3. Curious ______5. Little Orphan _____7. Spell it out, M-I-C-K-E-Y _____9. Winnie the ____11. aka Peter Parker13. Tony Stark is this kind of man14. Whale chasing captain16. Cat in the ___17. _____ the Barbarian18. Snoopy’s bird buddy21. Young girl has wild adventures in Wonderland22. _____ Boop23. Duh, it’s _____ Simpson25. Yogi ____26. Nintendo game plumber and brother28. The 900-year old Jedi Master29. First name of South Park’s Cartman
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Leesburg Bike Fest always has a lot to offer. It’s grown into one of the biggest motorcycle events in the country with hundreds of vendors, dozens of musical acts, drill team demos, bike shows, and more during its annual three day run. No doubt about it, you’ll work up an appetite trying to take it all in. And while getting a seat and service in one of the downtown eateries might be a challenge, there are dozens of tasty and affordable items being offered by a variety of food concessionaires. In fact, if you’re looking for a menu with variety, they can’t be beat.
Whether you’re craving some fresh made Italian sausage, a BBQ sandwich, Pizza, Greek Gyro’s, Steak Tips, Chinese Egg Rolls, or even an Arepa, you can find it. Your selection will be fresh and it will be delivered quickly. Every food vender at the rally knows that is the level of service that is expected and strives to deliver. John Curran has been in charge of recruiting the food vendors for Leesburg since about the second year of the rally. He is the owner of J&B Sales, a company that’s been producing and selling quality food for over 35 years and his company owns the stands selling Italian Sausage, Deli Sandwiches, and Lemonade. Each year he sorts through the applicants who want to get into the rally looking for those vendors who are up to the challenge of feeding a couple hundred thousand bikers.
Whether you’re cooking Kettle Korn, hawking Homemade Pretzels, or pitching Pizza with Pepperoni, you have to be able to prove that you’re up to the task of handling the size of crowds that Leesburg attracts before being accepted. While all of the vendors, like J&B Sales, are family run businesses, there are no shortcuts accepted when it comes to safety or cleanliness. Prior to Leesburg, each concession has been fully evaluated to insure they can deliver a quality product, and do it quickly. That doesn’t mean you won’t find a line at times, but that’s because a lot of people get hungry around the same time each day. And they know from previous visits that the food is good here. “Quality First” is the pledge, whether it be making Cheesesteak Sandwiches or serving up Ice Cream.
Whether you’re looking for a snack to nibble on, a complete meal, or just something for dessert, you can find it at the Leesburg Bike Fest. Bon Appetite.
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LEESBURG LIKES TO EAT
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We’re now getting our fantastic spring riding weather with low humidity and warm days and still cool nights. With that, more of us are on the roads competing for road space with those rascally cagers. If you’re any kind of experienced rider, you know that bikes are moving targets. It is up to you to be the most defensive driver you can be, and here are a few tips.
When you’re riding, avoid getting into the “zone” of riding and not paying attention to what is happening around you. There is a lot to be said about watching the other guy and by that I mean actually looking at the driver in the other vehicle to the point that you make eye contact. You will be surprised how many times you will observe people on their phones, looking at the kids in the back seat or looking in one direction while they move their vehicle in another. This can give you the edge to take evasive actions at your desecration rather than making an emergency move to avoid a collision.
Watch your mirrors always! I REPEAT, watch your mirrors always! Know where vehicles are around you in case you need to make lane changes. Because of some designs of bike tail lights, vehicles approaching from the rear may not see you. Bikes have a smaller footprint and can blend into the scene. Watch for those cars coming up from the rear when you’re stopped or moving. The most common bike crash is caused by a left turning vehicle that will turn in front of you or hit you head on. Is that driver looking to the left to see what is ahead of him and not paying attention to you entering the intersection?
Road debris is another hazard you need to watch for. In my club, when we see a road hazard, we will extend our leg out and over the hazard warning all behind us. This pertains to, but not limited to, pot holes, trash, gravel, oil, pieces of tire retread (the worst) or poorly done rail road crossings. Remember your bike training course and think about some of these hazards and when you might want to lift your butt up off the seat just a little to lessen the roll over impact. Added to that, there is nothing worse than a road hazard like sand, dirt, gravel, leaves or water…in a curve! If you like to ride the mountains of Florida (rolling hills of Pasco County) like I do, then you should remember that many times you should enter a curve outside, inside, outside and to slow down into that curve, you should downshift prior to the curve. Always try to avoid downshifting on hazardous material like leaves and gravel. Done improperly, a sudden jolt to the rear wheel could cause you to go down. Practicing your “curve management” [I just made that up] can make running the curves effortless and well as train you not to veer over the center line into what could be a head on collision. Before you know it you will be sailing right through curves. Just focus on a spot in the road ahead of you; dip your handle bars into the curve and go!
Then there is the obligatory profession writer’s tip on wearing safety equipment. The latest stats I have seen are that helmets prevented 67% of injuries in bike crashes and prevented 29% of deaths. I tell people to get a good new helmet, DOT approved. In Florida you must wear eye protection. Most of us know what it is like to be sand blasted by a rock hauler. As far as clothing, the only full protection is one of those leather riding suits with the rib and back braces in them, gloves and a full face helmet. For those of you that wear them, Bless your Heart. The reality in Florida is you’re going to dress lightweight…we take our chances. One thing I highly do not recommend is wearing shorts and sandals. Riding gloves are important as well. Full gloves are safety recommended. I admit, I wear those in the cold. I ride with half gloves that have padding to help prevent numbness on long rides.
Be visible! I know that black T-shirts, vests and blue jeans are the most common choice in biker
wear. But for me, and especially if I’m going to do night rides, I do have long sleeve white T’s and even several orange shirts. I’m not the type to go to the reflective green traffic vest, but my cold weather HD leather jacket does have reflective piping and logo on the back. You do what you feel is safe. If you noticed last month’s cover of my ride all lit up at night, which is not just for bling, it’s for safety. The one design flaw I have with Harley on my 2011 Street Glide is the rear tail light. It is inadequate and I feel downright dangerous. I had Paradise Lights install a set of red plasma strips on the rear and it made a huge difference. Being visible does not just mean a fashion statement, it includes how you ride. Stay out of the blind spot! You have no clue what that cager is thinking about. They may be in a hurry to get to Starbuck’s, or tired of following the garbage truck and with a glance-at-best in their side view mirror…and seeing nothing there because you’re in the blind spot, they come over. The best case scenario is you knew what you were doing and you blast them with your bad-ass air horns and the pull back into their lane. The worst case is you either don’t see them—crash---or you make an emergency move…into the car that was in your blind spot (see above; watch your mirrors) and—crash! I remember a tip from Basic Riders Course to move around within your lane every so often. If cuts down on you blending into the traffic ahead and it draws attention to you. Don’t rely on your “loud pipes saves lives” because that cager with the $800, 1990 Dodge and the $3000 stereo can’t hear you! Remember the make eye contact part? Look at them looking at you in the side view mirror, it could be a life saver.
An author’s note; several weeks ago on a beautiful Sunday ride, my MC club was riding with the Nam Knights MC to go to an event in Pasco country. Unfortunately, a heartless non-driving, scumbag attempted to break into our 50 bike convoy. One of the Nam rider’s had to take evasive action, sending him onto the shoulder. The bike went into a violent wobble sending the bike down. Nam Knight Brother, Jeffery “NK Hyerspace” Fogel was killed. His wife was thrown clear into the grass and survived with minor injuries. The aforementioned piece of dirt driver fled the scene on the southbound ramp of I-75 from I-4 in a white vehicle with a temporary tag. May he rest in peace. As always I close with….Bsafe.
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112HC078 – 4CMY ’13 Key Model Product Admats Rnd 97.625” x 5.25”MODEL: GOLD WING F6BCategory: TouringPAGE 10 February 13, 2013 12:16 PM
2013 GOLD WING® F6B
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powersports.honda.com ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING. NEVER RIDE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL, AND NEVER USE THE STREET AS A RACETRACK. OBEY THE LAW AND READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL THOROUGHLY. For rider training information or to locate a rider training course near you, call the Motorcycle Safety Foundation at 1-800-446-9227. Gold Wing® is a registered trademark of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2013 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (02/13)
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By Brad Souders
25% of Florida Drivers – Have No Automobile Insurance!
October 12, 2013 and October 28, 2013, respec-tively, two separate bikers are each on their way to work, both traveling under the posted speed limit when another driver suddenly runs a stop sign, vio-lates their right of way, totaling their bikes, causing them serious injuries. Soon afterwards, each finds himself at the local hospital, x-rays confirm one has a fractured wrist and the other has a serious ankle injury, each is told to follow up with their primary care physician. A few days later, one finds he needs to see a specialist for a back injury and the other finds he needs surgery, both unable to return to work.
On November 2, 2013, a third biker just finished dinner at a local restaurant, it’s after dark, he is traveling down a local boulevard, with a pickup truck traveling the same direction in the lane next to him, when suddenly and unexpectedly, the truck makes a sudden lane change, the biker swerves to his right trying to avoid the crash, the biker hits the side of the truck, the biker is ejected, he hits the curb and his bike lands on him. First responders ar-rive, he is back-boarded, placed on a stretcher, and transported to a local emergency room; and, he too learns of having broken bones and needing surgery, also unable to return to work for quite some time ahead.
In each of the three examples above, the cage driver was 100% at fault; and, each of the bikers suffered serious injuries, with at least two of the three bikers requiring surgery, all having high medi-cal bills, lost wages, and other damages. Addition-ally, the cage drivers in each of the three accidents had little or no insurance; and unfortunately, this scenario unfolds over and over again, especially in our home state.
In Florida, the odds of being involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist are higher than ever. By recent reports, at least 25% of Florida drivers have no insurance; and some of these cage drivers have been known to even carry fake insurance cards. Florida actually leads the nation as one of the top five states for having the most uninsured drivers. As a result, more and more bikers learn after an ac-cident the bad driver did not have insurance or had too little to cover the biker’s medical bills and lost wages, leading the biker to other legal problems, such as a possible bankruptcy.
Unfortunately, Florida law doesn’t require cage drivers to carry insurance for the other person’s medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Making matters even worse, insurance companies selling motorcycle insurance often sell the biker a
policy without uninsured motorist coverage, leaving the biker totally unprotected. It’s hard to believe this is true, but I have seen it myself countless times; and, I hope each reader checks his or her own insurance policy after reading this. Just because you have motorcycle insurance, don’t assume you have the coverage to protect you in the event of an accident. Early this year, I had a fourth biker look at his policy after an accident to learn he only had cov-erage to pay damages to someone else if he was at fault; and he said: “Why did the agent sell me this policy? Why didn’t the agent make sure I had better coverages to protect me? Why have I paid for this insurance for fifteen years if it doesn’t protect ME in an accident?” The biker had motorcycle insurance with a well-known insurance company (without uninsured motorist coverage); and, he didn’t think he was in “good hands” at all. Over the years, I have seen many other motorcycle insurance policies sold by many other well-known carriers omitting this critical and most important coverage. Thus, I have to believe there are many bikers out there without uninsured motorist coverage, having absolutely no protection for themselves, having no idea of the risk they take.
The Solution: Do yourself and your family a favor. Look at your insurance policies now. Look to see what coverages you have. Make sure both your automobile and motorcycle insurance policies have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage; and, make sure you have “stacked” coverage. If you have an accident with an at fault driver having little or no insurance, your uninsured motorist coverage steps into the at fault driver’s shoes; and, pays your medi-cal bills, lost wages, future medical bills and future lost wages, your pain and suffering and other dam-ages. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you have “full coverage” only to check your insurance after an accident to find you did not have this important coverage. Protect yourself and your family now by making sure you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, having the highest limits you can afford, making sure this coverage is listed on the declarations page for each insurance policy. If the coverage is not listed, then immediately revisit with your insurance agent to purchase this most important coverage. After all, you purchase insur-ance to protect YOU in case you are involved in an accident. If your agent has any excuses, then look elsewhere to make sure you have the insurance you need, especially as a biker; and, especially as a biker in the state of Florida.
Brad Souders is a life long biker and is a licensed attorney with a principle office located in Tampa, representing injured bikers throughout the state of Florida. Free Initial Consultations 24/7 & Home, Hospital and Weekend Appointments are available upon request. No Fees Or Costs Unless You Win! For more information, please visit www.hoglaw1.com or call Brad directly on his cell at (813) 220-
7767 or toll free at 1-866-464-5291
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Biker Lawyer - Representing Injured Bikers Throughout Florida
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Biker Lawyer - Representing Injured Bikers Throughout Florida
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The annual Leesburg Bike Fest is loaded with a lot to see and do but don’t forget
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Citrus Blvd
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By Leslie Kay Motorcycle Superstitions………….Step on a crack, break your mother’s back. We all chanted something as a kid or played a silly game early on that may have created some long-term, personally held superstitions. A good luck charm on your key ring, a lucky coin in your pocket, or the chunk of tire I carried in my saddlebag for years. The one that hit me in the chest at 50 plus miles an hour reminding me to keep my leather jacket zipped on the highway. Bikers are a superstitious bunch. Some of the long held superstitions and their origins follow:Ride Bells………….Want to keep evil Gremlins, Demons, and Evil Spirits away from your beloved ride? A ride bell is in order. But do not buy it for yourself. It must be a gift in order for the magic to really work. Some say that the evil road spirits become trapped in the bell and the constant ringing drives them away. Others say that the ringing keeps the demons from hanging onto your ride at all. Searching for the origin I came across a tale about an old biker who went down on a lonely dark road. He threw as many things as he could at the road gremlins until all that he had left was a bell. The bell kept the gremlins at bay long enough for help to arrive in the form of another biker. When his safety was certain he gifted the bell to the helpful fellow biker. Hence the part of the legend that says you must receive your bell as a gift. Never steal another biker’s bell. The evil spirits will be drawn to a bell whose magic is tarnished by a bad act.
Green Motorcycles………….Why on earth would a Green bike be bad luck? Bikes used in World War II painted military green were often considered sitting ducks. Many military riders were taken out some say because of their Green bikes. A legend was born and is still widely believed by many today.
Blessing of the Bikes……Religious or not having your bike blessed is believed to bring safety to the biker in the coming ride season. Churches around the world hold annual blessings for bikers. While these events are called Blessings of the Bikes they are really more about the riders. The Vatican’s Pope Francis held a blessing of the bikes. More than 35,000 bikes and their riders were in attendance for this event. Francis’s open-top Jeep navigated the main street to St. Peter’s Square blessing the thousands of people in a sea of Harley Davidsons. This event was part of a four day anniversary of Harley Davidson. Blessings are held around the country at Churches and other locales and date back several decades.
Karma………….Seeing a broken down bike on the side of the road is not as common as it once was. Technological and mechanical advancements have reduced breakdowns greatly. Stopping for that lone biker that is on the side of the road will indeed come back to you. It will come back to you the same way not stopping will revisit you when you break down. Karma will take her turn teaching you a valuable lesson. Don’t just wave and move on. I once stopped for a gentleman on the side of the road on the way home from Bike Week. He was broken down and
a diabetic. We took one of our bikes out of the trailer loaded his up, gave him food and water and a ride home. I rode my bike home with peace of mind, knowing that I had saved someone from great inconvenience, and potentially a serious health crisis. We exchanged Holiday Cards for years.
Dead Man’s Motorcycle……………………….Superstition has it that riding a Deal Man’s Motorcycle is bad luck. This does not mean that he was in a fatal accident on the machine. It is said that his spirit is still riding the motorcycle on his journey to the other side. If you are riding it in the physical world he will knock you off of it. Even the parts from that bike are bad luck.
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VA Names Two New National Cemeteries in Florida
Washington, D.C. - February 18, 2014 - VA Names Two New National Cemeteries in Florida WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced the names of two new VA national cemeteries planned in Florida – the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in Scottsmoor and the Tallahassee National Cemetery in Tallahassee. “ These two new cemeteries are a priority for the growing Veterans’ community in Florida,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “As VA moves forward with these new cemeteries, Veterans, their spouses and families can have peace of mind knowing that they have a final resting place in a nearby national shrine.” The Cape Canaveral National Cemetery is planned for a 318-acre parcel located in close proximity to U. S. Route 1 in northern Brevard County in Scottsmoor, approximately two miles from Interstate 95 and 12 miles north of Titusville. The cemetery will serve more than 163,000 Veterans, spouses and their eligible dependents living in the central eastern Florida area. The initial phase of construction will provide more than 17,000 gravesites. VA purchased the central eastern Florida property, formerly known as Acosta Groves, for $2.1 million on July 31, 2012. The Tallahassee National Cemetery is planned for a 250-acre parcel in Leon County, with frontage along U.S. Highway 27 (Apalachee Parkway) and Old St. Augustine Road near March Road east of Tallahassee. The cemetery will serve 83,000 Veterans and their eligible dependents in the Tallahassee area, as well as southwestern Georgia and southeastern Alabama. The initial phase of construction will provide more than 6,000 gravesites and an earlyturnover area so that the cemetery can begin burial operations soon after construction begins. VA purchased the Tallahassee property for $6.8 million on Aug. 14, 2012, from the St. Joe Company. Veterans with a qualifying discharge, their spouses and eligible dependent children can be buried in a VA national cemetery. Also eligible are military personnel who die on active duty. Other burial benefits available for eligible Veterans, regardless of whether they are buried in a national cemetery or a private cemetery, include a burial flag, a Presidential Memorial Certificate, and a government headstone or marker. In the midst of the largest expansion since the Civil War, VA operates 131 national cemeteries in 39 states and Puerto Rico and 33 soldiers’ lots and monument sites. More than 3.8 million Americans, including Veterans of every war and conflict, are buried in VA’s national cemeteries. In 2013, NCA achieved a customer satisfaction index of 96, the highest American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) score in either the private or public sector in the history of the ACSI. The score is nearly 28 points
above the 68 point average for federal government agencies. Information on VA burial benefits can be obtained from national cemetery offices, from the Internet at www.cem.va.gov, or by calling VA regional offices toll-free at 800-827-1000. To make burial arrangements at any VA national cemetery at the time of need, call the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 800-535-1117.
Care and Benefits for Veterans Strengthened
by $164 Billion VA BudgetWASHINGTON – March 14, 2014 - Continuing
the transformation of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) into a 21st century organization, the President has proposed a $163.9 billion budget, a 6.5 percent increase over Fiscal Year 2014, that will support VA’s goals to expand access to health care and other benefits, eliminate the disability claims backlog, and end homelessness among Veterans. The budget includes $68.4 billion in discretionary spending, largely for healthcare, and $95.6 billion for mandatory programs – mostly disability compensation and pensions for Veterans.
“This budget will allow us to continue the progress we have made in helping Veterans secure their place in the middle class,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “It is a tangible demonstration of the President’s commitment to ensuring Veterans and their families have the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve.”
The $68.4 billion total in discretionary spending includes approximately $3.1 billion in medical care collections from health insurers and Veteran copayments.
“We remain committed to providing Veterans the opportunity to pursue their education, find meaningful employment and access high-quality health care,” Shinseki added. “From the men and women of ‘the greatest generation’ to the Veterans who have returned from our most recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, no one deserves it more.”
VA operates one of the largest integrated health care systems in the country with nearly 9 million enrollees; the ninth largest life insurance program; monthly disability pay, pensions and survivors payments to more than 5.1 million beneficiaries of monthly pay, pensions and survivor benefits; education assistance or vocational rehabilitation benefits and services to 1.2 million students; mortgage guaranties to over 2 million homeowners; and the largest cemetery system in the nation.
Here are highlights from the President’s 2015 budget request for VA.
Health Care: With a medical care budget of $59.1 billion, including collections, VA is positioned to provide care to 6.7 million patients in the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1. The patient total includes over
VETERANS INFO 757,000 people whose military service began after Sept. 11, 2001.
Major spending categories within the health care budget are:• $7.2 billion for mental health;• $2.6 billion for prosthetics;• $561 million for spinal cord injuries;• $229 million for traumatic brain injuries;• $238 million for readjustment counseling; and• $7.0 billion for long-term care.
Expanding Access: The President’s proposed budget would ensure that care and other benefits are available to Veterans when and where they need them. Among the programs that will expand access under the proposed budget are:• $567 million in telehealth funding, which helps
patients monitor chronic health care conditions and increases access to care, especially in rural and remote locations;
• $403 million for health care services specifically-designed for women, an increase of 8.7 percent over the present level;
• $534 million for the activation of new and enhanced health care facilities;
• $562 million to continue on-going major construction projects;
• $86.6 million for improved customer service applications for online self-service portals and call center agent-assisted inquiries; and
• $3.6 million to open two new national cemeteries in Florida and prepare for the opening of two new rural national Veterans burial grounds.
Eliminating Claims Backlog: The President’s proposed budget provides for full implementation of the Veterans Benefits Administration’s (VBA) robust Transformation Plan -- a series of people, process and technology initiatives -- in FY 2015. This plan will continue to systematically reduce the backlog and enable the Department to reach its 2015 goal - to eliminate the disability claims backlog and process all claims within 125 days with 98 percent accuracy.Eliminating Veterans Homelessness
A major strategic goal for the Department is to end homelessness among Veterans in 2015. The budget request targets $1.6 billion for programs to prevent or reduce homelessness, including:• $500 million for Supportive Services for Veteran
Families (SSVF) to promote housing stability;• $374 million for the HUD-VASH program wherein
VA provides case management services for at-risk Veterans and their families and HUD provides permanent housing through its Housing Choice Voucher program; and
• $253 million in grant and per diem payments that support temporary housing provided by community-based organizations.
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By HywayThroughout our history, from time to time we have set aside certain days, events or things to be recognized, remembered and honored. As time passes things that at one time meant something or had a special purpose or significances seem to get watered down or just forgotten altogether. Things that were once important and taught in schools or taught to us by our parents have lost their original objective or just fell by the wayside. We can’t pin the blame for our loss of Americanism and American values and heritage on anyone but ourselves. Back in my day every school room had a flag. We use to start every school day by standing, putting; our right hand over our hearts, face the flag and reciting the “Pledge” including the part …one nation under God.... Just ask anyone under 40 to recite the “Pledge” today and see what ya get. And why has Old glory vanished from the classroom? Sadly Memorial Day is one of those special days that has lost most of it’s original intent.
For positive, every Memorial Day there’s colorful parades, marching bands and the streets are line with cheering spectators both adults and kids waving little American flags made in China but are those folks there to recognize and pay homage to the Americans that have died defending our freedom and our way of life? Do the kids even know the reason for the parade, or is the celebration more about having a good time, givin’ Old Man Winter the boot and ushering in the summer ridin’ season?
The loss of our American heritage and way of life is like the tires on your scoot. At one time they were strong and could conquer any road condition. Over time little by little they wore away and if ya neglect ‘em you’re gonna suddenly find yourself with a flat stranded out in the middle of BFE going nowhere fast! That’s exactly what’s happening to our country today. Little by little we’ve neglect our heritage. Little by little the memory of the struggles and hardships our veterans and countrymen/women endured fades and we’re gonna find ourselves stranded going nowhere fast.
This Memorial Day weekend if you can scoot on up to Washington D.C. maybe hook up with Rolling Thunder and get involved in the Demonstration Ride through
ROAD TRIPPIN’: WHAT DAY IS MEMORIAL?D.C. you’ll never forget the experience. When you’re there take some time to really take a serious look at the WWII Memorial, read the inscription carved in the granite, take time to visualize what might have been happening at that time and what those veterans where thinking when the air was filled with lead, the ground soaked in blood and solider dying faster then you could’ve counted ‘em, in places like Normandy and Battle Of The Bulge. Then walk over to the Korean War Memorial, the “Forgotten War” and look at the soldiers wearing rain ponchos. What was going through their minds as they were marching into battle? In a two day battle at Pork Chop Hill over 400 American were killed, about one every 8 minutes. Can you even remember why we were fighting in Korea? Then visit the “Wall”. The names cut into that black wall tells the story of Viet Nam, just name after name in no particular order. It’s a somber and sober feeling as you touch the wall and see the things family, friend, and follow Viet Nam comrades leave there. And in our recent history thousands more American soldiers have died in foreign lands and continue to die every day.
Before you head home, take a day to ride to Arlington National Cemetery and check out the changing of the guard at the Tomb Of The Unknown Solider. If that don’t spark your Patriotic Emotions, you better have someone check your pulse because you’re probably dead! Stop by Audie Murphy’s grave the most decorated solider of WWII. JFK’s is there too.
So yea this Memorial Day, get out and enjoy all the hullabaloo doins, that comes with being free but keep in mind there’s more to Memorial Day then Parades, Bar-B-Qs and the beginning of summer. Take time to remember those who gave all. Get out and take a ride in respect of those who died to keep us free.
Freedom isn’t free, it never has been, it never will be.
Just for the fun of it, when you’re headin’ back take a little side trip and ride across the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia via the 17 mile Chesapeake Bay Tunnel and Bridge, WOW! Now that’s what I’m talkin’ ‘bout right there! And ride the Blue Ridge Parkway back home.
The fact that you are able to read this … thank a teacher. The fact that you are reading this in English … thank a veteran.
Wishing all a safe and joyful Memorial Day. Hyway
Hey folks if you like the high quality of this magazine, let our sponsors know, drop your cash at their shop.
Catch ya at the next gas stop.
Have a question or comment?Drop me a line at: [email protected]
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SAT – May 3 – BUSHNELL – RUN FOR THE SON RIDE & EVENT Central FL Chap of CMA presents. Rides begin at Chapter locations/end at Young’s Farm @ 3901 CR 311. $10 suggest donation. Live Band, Food, Bike Blessings, Primitive Camping, Bike Games. Info: PK 352-697-0396
SAT - May 10 - Fort Myers - FORT MYERS BIKE NIGHT It’s motorycles only in downtown for this mega party. Info: 239-246-3045 SAT - May 10 - Kissimmee - AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS POKER RUN $20 Rider $10 Pass Incl Lunch - Music, Vendors, Raffles Legion Post 10 Info: 407-847-4193
EVENT LISTINGS ARE FREE! SEND INFO TO:
DEADLINE IS THE 10TH OF EACH MONTH
SAT – Mar 29 – Fort Myers – THROTTLE YARD SWAP MEET 2 Acres, downtown FM. 9am-3pm Barn Luck, 1552 Carson St. Info: 239-971-0004
SAT – Mar 29 – Fort Myers – FLATHEADS ROADHOUSE RATE BIKE SHOW Noon-6pm All Rats Welcome. Stringfellow Rd on Pine Island. Info: 239-283-3545
SAT Mar 29 - Fort Myers - SLOW DOWN RALLY SW Florida Ruff Ryders @ Sunsports 3441 Colonial Blvd. Car/Bike Wash, Raffles, Music. Info: 239-209-3187 SUN – Mar 30 – Palmetto – PEGGY’S CORRAL 16TH ANNIVERSARY BASH 4511 US 41 N, Palmetto. Info: 941-729-5442
FRI-SUN – Apr 4-6 – Crystal River – CITRUS COUNTY BIKE BASH Live Music Sat/Sun. Vendors, Face Painting, BBQ, Food, Drink. Info: 352-563-9900
SAT - Apr 5 - Wauchula - CHARLOTTE’S WEBB PUB 6TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY Food, Vendors, Camping, Live Music. Noon-1am 3315 Hwy 64 West Info: 863-735-8887
SUN - Apr 6 - West Palm Beach - 23RD CHILI COOKOFF PALM BEACH HARLEY Poker Run, Vendors, Food. 1 Block W of I-95 @ 45th Stree. Info: 561-659-4131
SUN - Apr 6 - Fort Myers - BBQ BANDS & BREW Benefit ride for Lee BIA Builders Care. Starts Fort Myers HD. $25/Rider $10/Passenger Info: www.BBQBandsandBrew.com
SUN - Apr 6 - Clearwater - 13TH ANNUAL RUN WITH THE BIG DOGS Poker run to benefit Greyhound Pets of America. Starts/Ends Quaker Steak & Lube Info: 727-585-0201
SUN - Apr 6 - Webster - MONTHLY MOTORCYCLE SWAPMEET 1st Sunday @ Flea Market Info: 800-832-3477
SAT - Apr 12 - Cape Coral - CAPE BIKE NIGHT Vendors, Music, Food and more make this a great event. 47th Terrace - Info: www.ccbikenight.com
SUN - Apr 13 - Fort Myers - 10TH ANNUAL DEPUTY PAT HEALEY POKER RUN Starts Fort Myers HD, 2160 Colonial Blvd. Last bike out 11am. Benefit for Hope Hospice.
SAT-SUN - Apr 12-13 - Okeechobee - BIKEFEST OKEECHOBEE Car/Motorcycle Show, Live Entertainment, Games, Vendors. $5 admission Info: www.bikefestokeechobee.com SUN – Apr 13 – Clearwater – 2ND ANNUAL 50 LEGS POKER RUN Starts/Ends Quaker Steak & Lube. KSU 11am. Info: 727-572-9464
SUN – Apr 13 – Brandon – CREDIT UNION CRUISE FOR KIDS 2014 POKER RUN For Children’s Charities and All Children’s Hospital. Starts Brandon HD, ends at Quail Hollow. $10 online reg/$15 day of ride. Info: www.CUC4K.com.
SAT - Apr 19 - Fort Myers - 11TH ANNUAL EASTER BUNNY TOY RUN Escorted ride from Fort Myers HD. 11am KSU. Info: 239-590-0513
SUNDAY April 20 - EASTER
SUN - Apr 20 - Safety Harbor - EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE Safety Harbor Marina Park Info: 727-560-5589
FRI-SUN - Apr 25-27 - Leesburg - LEESBURG BIKE FEST Lots of Music, Vendors, Entertainment, Food, Drink and Fun. Info: www.Leesburgbikefest.com SUN - Apr 27 - Lehigh Acres - KATI’S 4TH SUNDAY MUGS N JUGS PARTY Food, Drink Specials, Games, Music, Vendors. KruisinWithKati 239-246-3045 WED-SUN - Apr 30-May 4 - Panama City Beach - THUNDER BEACH SPRING RALLY Free and friendly rally. Info: 850-249-7627
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First thing first, I need to let you know about Barn Luck, a Café Racer business that just opened in the Downtown Ft Myers area. They are having a Throttle Yard/Swap Meet on two acres on March 29th, please see their ad for more info. I’ll be down there to check the place out as soon as I’m able to get around without my neck brace, I might even make the swap meet.
Second, don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Okeechobee Bike Fest April 12th-13th, it’s a very big event! Includes a big bike show and bike games
and all the regular stuff, of course. See ad for more info.
One day when my husband was driving me home from a doctor’s appointment I think I actually got mad for a moment about this mess I’m in from the John Deere ATV running into me and totaling my bike. I remember feeling and saying this this just isn’t fair, why me? I’m supposed to be that free spirit in the wind. That little lady out in the wind on a bike so shiny and cool looking, kids waving from the school buses, and women in cars giving me the thumbs up. But mostly living the free life, rolling through the countryside with the fog, and returning when the cows get home. Maybe this was just one of those times when I really missed riding a lot… I know getting upset or mad isn’t going to change anything, the way it is is the way it is, the only thing that is going to change anything is time.
Latest update on recovery: wrist brace is off, jaw is unwired though getting the mouth to open to insert food then chew it is taking lots of work. Neck brace comes off toward the end of March. Then it’s time to find out why the room spins so fast when I lay down. I think something is pinching in my neck but with the brace it can’t really be checked yet. Pelvis seems to be healing ok, walking is getting easier and I am getting back to where I can pick things up off the floor with my toes. LOL…
I’d like to give a huge thank you to my husband
Tom for being such a great partner in life, don’t know how I could have handled this mess without him. Amazing even with my jaws wired closed I never lost weight, he learned his way around a blender and kept me well feed. Thank you Tom Lilly, one of my riding friends from up north, for helping to get the Okeechobee area covered for the past two months with the magazine, this has been such a huge help. Ray of Leather Lid Inserts for handling the Mugs & Jugs bike event for the past two months, Pops, you’re very much appreciated too for keeping the slow race going in my place. Rikki, our South Florida sales lady, you’ve been the best and I thank you so very, very much for always being there to cover for me. Getting my magazines delivered, setting up at events and covering events along with your own… It’s a blessing to have you with us… thank you!
As far as riding goes, it’s still going to be a while. In the future when I am able to ride I think I’d like to get a Victory Trike or an Indian… haven’t heard of many issues with either and both are awesome looking. We all have dreams, this is mine… Rikki’s thoughts are to add bubble wrap all the way around and put on bumper guards, she may be onto something here.
Well friends, you are all in my thoughts and I pray daily that your angel keeps you safe on the road. Take a curve for me will ya please… Lots of hugs until next time, Katie
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Fort Myers Bike Night March 8th More photos on P38
4601 FOWLER STREET – FORT MYERS, FL(Corner of Colonial & Fowler)
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FORT MYERS BUSINESS LOCATOR MAP1 Haus of Trikes & Bikes – Ad p332 Tropic Powersports – Ad p33 Tropic Trailer – Ad p5 & 314 Flatheads Roadhouse – Ad p195 Palladen Cycles – Ad p416 Old Fish House Marina & Restaurant – Ad p297 Great White Grill – Ad p298 Beller’s Salon – Ad p419 American Cycles – Ad p2910 “Purr”formance Motorsports – Ad p3511 Mugs n’ Jugs Restaurant – Ad p3712 Best Western Waterfront Hotel – Ad p4312 3 Fishermen Seafood Restaurant – Ad p4313 Barn Luck Cafe Racers - Ad p3
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Do You Ride Smart? I inspect my bike before I ride.
I Ride Smart Checklist I ride like I am invisible I wear the right safety gear I wear a helmet I wear high-visibility cloth-
ing I inspect my bike before I ride I ride a bike that fits me I know the road conditions I attend a training class
yearly I never ride tired/upset/angry I never drink and ride
This long-proven pre-ride procedure can help ensure greater safety every time you ride. Perform this checklist and you’ll al-ways know the maintenance and operational status of your motorcycle, be-fore you leave.
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OFF ROAD RIDING
WAITING CAN BE A GOOD THING By Lowell Anderson
to do to get ready to go. Some of the hard core guys start riding before the snow has even melted and then they use the opportunity to make fun of us guys waiting for the weather to get just a bit warmer. I say more power to em’! Just hearing a bike brings a smile to my face after a long cold winter!
This is also the time of the year when sales for new bikes start to rise. Most of the nation has been cooped-up in a house all winter long and they just can’t wait to get out on the open road. After this last winter, I can safely say that almost all of us experienced a few days in the house.
Some of the lucky ones among us will head out to a dealership this year to pick up a new ride. It is always a great feeling to have the ability to go into a dealer and pick out a new ride. If you are like me, you like the process of finding the bike as much as getting it.
Over the years I have had the opportunity to see some of the good and bad of motorcycle manufacturing. I have been working in the industry for almost 20 years now, and I have been lucky enough to get an inside glimpse of some of the different factories out there making bikes. If you are considering picking up a brand new ride, here is a little advice for you.
If you determined to buy a new bike, be cautious. New model bikes often have issues that are not yet discovered by the factories producing those bikes. Doesn’t matter what brand you are looking at, they all have issues. My advice is to wait at least a year before you buy a new model. Many buyers go out and
As the weather starts to change, we all get the bug to get out on the road and start riding again. I know as soon as it gets slightly warm I start to think about riding. I find myself out in the garage going over my bikes and considering all the things I need
buy new models then have to wait for months to ride their new bikes due to recalls or other issues. Last year Harley Davidson had to recall their new touring models due to clutch issues. Honda just recently recalled 6,900 CB500F models due to a rocker arm retaining bolt issue. These kinds of issues are not as uncommon as you might think. Often the factories have to purchase new parts to fix the issues. They normally buy parts based on demand, so they have to go back to the parts manufacturer and wait for them to produce new parts. This can cause lengthy delays in getting the parts needed to fix your bike. All of the factories do a considerable amount of R&D testing to try to avoid recalls, but there are always issues of some sort that come up. There are so many variables when producing a machine that has so many moving parts. Getting it right on the first try is not very common. I have been in R&D departments and seen some of the issues that can arise. I can tell you that it can be ugly…really ugly!
All this can cause countless calls to your dealer, and tons of aggravation. Not to mention the ribbing you are going to endure from your riding buddies who are out riding while you’re waiting for parts for your NEW bike.
Take my advice and wait a year for that new model. All the issues will raise their ugly heads during that first year, and all the scrambling to address them will be complete. Then you can enjoy your new investment without having all the headaches and you’ll have a better idea of what you invested in.
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FORT MYERS BIKE NIGHT MARCH 8TH
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Saturday May 10th
6-10 PMLAST BIKE NIGHT BEFORE SUMMER!
Live Music On Multiple StagesQuality VendorsFood & Drink Specials
DOWNTOWNFORTMYERSBIKENIGHT.COMVENDOR INFO: 239-246-3045 or [email protected]
All Bikes
Welcome
It’s Motorcycles Only In
The Historic Downtown
Fort Myers
River District
RIDE LAKE OKEECHOBEE BUSINESS LOCATOR MAP
1 Iron Eagle Bar – Ad p392 Uncle Larry’s Rim Ditch Café – Ad p393 Skull Hill Motorcycle Shop – Ad p254 J&S Fishcamp – Ad p395 Shady Gatorz Saloon – Ad p396 Pioneer Gator Bait Pub – Ad p397 You Say Sew – Ad p418 Goldberg, Racila, D’Alessandro & Noone – Ad p339 Gator Shack – Ad p3910 Palms & Pines RV Park - Ad p4111 Countryside Cafe - Ad -4112 Log Cabin Restaurant – Ad p35
Lake Okeechobee is called “Big Water” by the Seminole Indians. The average depth is only about9 feet but the surface area covers 739 square miles.Enjoy your ride around the lake and be sure to stopby and visit our advertisers along the way.
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23
4
56
78
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ROLLING WITH RIKKI
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ROLLIN’ WITH RIKKII so love my job! Where else can you meet so many new friends, go to so many super events, and spend so much time on a bike? Just saying.
The Party Under the Bridge, put on by the Eagle Riders Association in Moore Haven, was once again a success. There were many gorgeous old cars and some pretty cool bikes that came in. Several vendors, including Lynn from tj’s leather. were there. Riders from the Iron Eagle Bar with Betty, made their yearly appearance. They came from all over the state and it was great seeing everyone. Many Veterans showed up to support the cause. There was an auction that included the most beautiful POW-MIA quilt.
I had one weekend where I broke away from the biker routines. I volunteered for the Disney Princess Marathons for the first time ever. Quite a change from bike events but had a wonderful time with a good friend of mine and her mom. Disney will never be the same after we left there.
We have one more Cape Bike Night in April then the last one in Ft. Myers in May. At the March Ft. Myers Bike Night in March, the crowd was big despite the fact Daytona had just started. Our publisher and his wife came from Tampa to help with handing out magazines and greeting everyone. I was “nominated” to have to search the streets to find the neatest bikes worthy of the “Kruisin With Kati” award medals. Do you have ANY idea how hard that is when you are surrounded by some of the coolest bikes in SW Florida? Well, I did my best and made several people very happy. I only wish I had a medal for everyone that showed.
I would like to make mention that we had a very “special” visitor who came for his first bike night ever. He’s a young boy named Ethan who has been battling cancer. The Lost Riders escorted him riding on a trike provided by Haus of Trikes & Bikes. Ethans’ mom, Maria, stated that was the best time he ever had. He is an awesome young man and I’m delighted I got to meet him at his very first bike night event. I look forward to seeing him at more events.
I always ask everyone to please visit as many of our advertisers that you can. We have some new onesin this issue also so check them out. ALL the events listed are worth going to so try to make them if you can. And last but never least RIDE SAFE & HAVE FUN!
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Best Western Waterfront Hotel
Toll Free: 800-274-5511 Local: 239-997-5511
13021 N. Cleveland Ave • North Fort Myers, FL 33903
www.BestWesternWaterfront.com
GREAT SEAFOOD IN 2 LOCATIONS:
WATER FRONT MARKER 54 BY BOAT13021 N Cleveland AveNorth Fort Myers, FL (At The Best Western Hotel)239-599-8568
MIDTOWN5100 S Cleveland Ave #314
Fort Myers, FL(In Sam’s Club Plaza)
239-931-3474
HALF PRICE DRINKS3-6PM DAILY
ENJOY OUR DAILY SPECIALS AND LOCAL
CATCH OF THE DAYSEAFOOD – SHELLFISH
SANDWICHES – SALADS – PLATTERS
www.threefi shermenseafood.com
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TRIKES BY DESIGN OPEN HOUSE
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GO FAR MAGAZINE WEEKLY & MONTHLY BIKE NIGHTS
4th Sun Mugs n’ Jugs 5512 8th Street W Lehigh Acres 239-369-5069
Sun Bayard Rooster 12661 Philips Hwy/US1 Jacksonville 904-880-7771
Tue Gator Shack 4651 US Hwy 98 Sebring 863-655-6888
Tue Britannia 5407 Tamiami Trail Naples 239-775-3727
Wed Rick Case/Hooters 7990 Pines Blvd Pembroke Pines 954-962-6330
Wed Quaker Steak & Lube 10400 49th Street Pinellas Park 727-572-9464
1st Wed Popeye’s 576 Hickpoochee Ave Labelle 239-246-3045
Wed Olde Fish House Marina 4530 Pine Island Rd Matlacha 239-282-9577
Wed Holiday MotorSports 1161 Sun Century Rd Naples 239-596-6305
3rd Thu Palm Beach H-D 2955 45th St W Palm Beach 561-659-4131
1st Fri Chester’s H-D 201 International Pkwy Sunrise 855-819-9556
Friday Mulligan’s Sports Grill 2014 Tamiami Trail N Naples 239-272-9736
Bike Night listings are provided as a free service for our advertisers. Listings for non-advertisers are only $25/Monthly. Contact us today about listing your event!
BIKE NIGHT LISTINGS – $25/MONTH OR $100/6 MONTHS
Located at Junction of I-95 & US 1 • Ormond Beach, FL386-615-0950 • MON-SAT 9am-7pm • SUN 10am-5pm
The world’s largest retailer of cruiser aftermarket parts, accessories & apparel.
Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount
WWW.JPCYCLES.COM • 800-397-4844*Some restrictions apply; see Terms of Business page in catalog. One time use only.
Stop in and
Valid in store only • Expires April 30, 2014
Visit our newly remodeled 15,000 sqft showroom
filled with the parts and accessories every rider needs!
Stop in and save 10% thru April 30.
