Rosey Times Riding

Ouch - an expensive ride this morning

2011-11-12T14:46:00.003-05:00

So much to do, so little time...where have I heard that before? So I took the opportunity to combine my errands with a bike ride. Temperatures had broken and were in the 50's when I took off. For me, that is the perfect riding temperature range!

I took off to buy some coffee, going to Hemisphere Coffee Roasters and picking up my normal Papua New Guinea and got half pound of pumpkin pie flavored coffee. Also stopped by the grocery store and picked up some fruit. Rode over to St John's for their Christmas bizarre. I still get excited when I see the majestic bell tower as I approach the church.

I also need some furniture. The family of a friend of mine, someone I worked with years ago, has an Amish furniture store, so I thought I would start there. I got there, walked in and saw exactly what I wanted. But wearing my leathers, I did not get approached by any of the people. Guess I did not look like the buying type. Met my friend's son - last time I saw him, he was a baby!!! I ended up dropping 20 Benjamins there!

I hope I can get out a couple more times yet this year, but time is definitely running out.

A Sunday Ride in the fall

2011-10-09T16:54:00.005-05:00

I FINALLY took some time on the bike. It is a warm day, sunny with the colors coming out to celebrate the changing of the season. It is not often when we get these days, especially on a weekend.

I headed out of Marysville (west of Columbus OH) into some of the very rural and hilly part of central Ohio. Plenty of switchbacks, 90 degree turns, and rolling hills. Not much traffic means that I can enjoy the roads as well as the scenery. We have plenty of wooden covered bridges in the area, some old and some newer.

It was a nice diversion, a reminder of why I love my bike, and why I love living in Ohio.

Starting to look back...

2011-10-09T09:26:00.004-05:00

The temperatures tell us there is a change of seasons in the air. In a few months, there will be snow on the ground. I look back of the summer and wonder "What Happened?" Not nearly the miles I had hoped to put on the bike. Did not take the adventure I have planned on for years; packing some clothes, tent, sleeping bag and head out with no destination in mind. I did not take the week long trip where I meet unexpected people, and explore unknown places. In short, work trumped free time, and I will loose close to a month of vacation because I cannot afford the time off to take it.

But lets look at the other side of the coin. First, and foremost, I am employed. It provides a sense of contribution, it provides the finances to live comfortably now and hopefully in retirement. It provides the finances to put gas into the bike. I was able to attend the GLVROC rally in Swanton, seeing old friends and new. And got a chance to act as grill chief. I was able to put about 1,000 miles in the saddle as we attended the Interlochen, MI Rally. New friends and old, great roads. And as true every year, there was some rain. I was able to strip out all of the "unnecessary" stuff on my bike. And I had a problem with the bike that would force me to use logic and wrenching skills. Maybe, it really was not that bad!

Even cooler, I have reconnected with VROC.org finding a lot of the "old gang" going strong, and some new people that I am beginning to know. What is unnerving is that there are now over 34,000 members worldwide! WOW!!!

So now, with the cooler weather, the leaves are beginning to change color and fall. It is a beautiful time of year. And that leaves me with one question...Why am I writing this instead of putting some time on the bike?!?!

See ya, I am out a' here!

FINALLY

2011-07-07T14:30:00.003-05:00

After rides canceled over and over, I will finally be able to get on the bike this weekend. After a week of vacation that involved work at home at the office, I will be able to get on Kermit once again. Just a 100 mile ride, followed by some camping, and another 100 miles back. Just short rides, but in some difficult heat. In between the rides will be time spent with friends that I have not seen in too long of a time.

I am looking forward to this weekend no matter how it goes. It will be good to get away into a different world, a different focus, a change of the mind. Wind against the chest, music and rumble in the ears.

The happiest time of year, the saddest time of year

2010-12-22T09:25:00.002-05:00

Christmas and New Years are just around the corner. Celebrating The Birth, and the start of a New Year as well. Its a beautiful time of year.

Yet, it is the first full winter day. Kermit is in the garage with no plans until spring. In years past, I have been able to ride just a few days before Christmas, and on New Years Day. This year, with snow and ice covering the roads and temperatures often dropping near zero, Kermit will simply have to sleep quietly in the garage. It is such a sad sight to see a bike like this simply leaning on the kickstand with no where to go.

Sleep well, Kermit. Dream of spring rides and VROC rallies in 2011.

5th annual Biker Bash - Findlay OH

2010-08-26T10:11:00.003-05:00

Just 65 miles ride (with construction detour), the 5th annual Bike Bash in Findlay OH is a great destination. Its a family friendly event (Friday 8/27 from 5pm-9pm) with live music, great food, and bike parking on Main street which they block off for the evening! Its free and a LOT of fun. There are auctions, 50/50 raffle, services, food, etc where proceeds go to United Way of Hancock Country.

2010 Interlochen

2010-08-23T19:04:00.002-05:00

Four hundred miles riding north from Columbus Ohio to Interlochen Michigan. Its the annual VROC rally held in NW lower peninsula near Traverse City. After the long (repeat LONG ride for me anyway), I get to set up camp. There is very little better than a motorcycle and tent. The grounds have the hottest showers around. Oh does that feel good after a long ride and sweaty day.

The best part of the time is the people. We had probably 30 VROCers and shared the park with the Goldwing riders and a couple of small Harley groups. It is amazing how such a great diversity in people, machines, and friendships can enjoy the same lifestyle. We had some tough weather, and also great weather.

There are a lot of great things to experience on these rallies. One of my favorite is the local food. We ate at a restaurants that served huge amounts of good food, a tavern that had good perch right on the lake (they would even cook up your own catch as you came in from a day of fishing), and my favorite - The Cherry Hut. This area is famous for its cherries, and this restaurant has some traditional fare as well as cherry burgers, cherry chicken salad, and wonderful (I mean WONDERFUL) Cherry Pie.

Areas all over the US have some amazing history. As we drove around, we took route M37. It dead ended at the Old Mission Lighthouse. It is half way between the equator and the Pole at the 45th parallel.

But all good things have to end. And with most camping trips, there are plenty of challenges that inhibit sleeping comfortable. We had a huge storm which flooded the tent, and then the final night the mattress we slept on a 1/2 inflated mattress. Why we did not get up and inflate it with the pump, I will never know. But we got up, broke camp, and started back on the 400 miles home.

Sleep deprived, we rode off about 40 miles and grabbed breakfast. Three cups of coffee, but still drowsy. Stopped at McD's for their heavy duty caffeine which eventually did the trick.

Its that time again! Interlochen!!!

2010-08-09T19:49:00.006-05:00

In a little while, I will be able to head back up to Interlochen for a VROC rally. Its about 400 miles up there, about 7 hours if I road straight through. I wont! I will probably stop every 100 miles or so, fuel up, get some water, stretch the legs, and take some additional ibuprofen for the saddle sores. There is a common knowledge rule that states that if it is the Interlochen weekend, then it is rain season. The first year I went, I rode back in thunderstorms and tornado warnings virtually the entire trip. The last time, it rained while I was up there and the tent flooded. Yet, it is a good time!

After we get up there, we will have to check in, and then drive back into the camping area of Cycle-Moore. Its a couple of large circles of gravel roads with plenty of sandy ground to pitch a tent. The bath house is known as the showers with the hottest water.

Wow - Time slips by too quickly!

2010-08-09T19:29:00.004-05:00

I appologize for the LONG delay on posting an update on the Michigan ride. It was a great ride North. Stopped a few times, had some water, then got back on the bikes.

I had a great time in Michigan with my friend and their family. A little (ok, a lot) of drinks, a little work, and a lot of fishing. The place was nice (see below) and we had some interesting drink/gun discussion combination.

Here are the two GPS runs. First one was on the way up, second is the return trip. Had to make it on my own due to a job possibility.

300 miles - great ride!

2010-06-25T20:55:00.002-05:00

Put 300 miles on the bike. It was a great ride. The vest kept me comfortable, and we stopped every 100 miles to refuel and stretch. The place is absolutely beautiful and spent a few hours fishing after dinner. But there is no wireless here, so I will update the site more later. Putting pics on Facebook too!

Getting ready to head out!

2010-06-24T11:54:00.003-05:00

I have the privilege of riding to Michigan with a buddy of mine. His family has a house on a lake up there. During the day, I will still be searching for employment and following up with applications already submitted. It really does not matter where I am, as long as I have cell and internet access! In the evening, I will be able to enjoy the area and quiet of the country.

I will be taking pictures and posting as I have time and access. For now, here is the map. Its over 300 miles, and I suspect it will take 7 hrs when you factor in stopping for drinks of water and some dinner. Its going to be hot, and my rear end and my back will be really sore. Ah, but the stories I can tell when it is over!

Another 100 miles

2010-06-07T17:37:00.002-05:00

On the early news, they have the "2-Minute Mechanic" who shows things that people should look out for on their cars. Today, he talked about "Jax Wax" products - something I have NEVER seen him do. He was head-over-heals over the products.

I did a quick search and found the company at www.jaxwax.com. Dropped them a note about what would they recommend for a motorcycle. Within minutes, they sent a message back with a phone number indicating I should call and they have exactly what I need. Thinking that I would get the $100 package recommendation, I gave him a call. Instead, he suggested one of their lowest cost products, and said that is all that I would need! We talked more, and he also gave me an alternative suggestion if I wanted to go with a little more flexible solution for both wet and dry cleaning/waxing.

It was such a beautiful day today, and I just had to get out and enjoy the day. So around 1:00, I jumped on the motorcycle and headed off to pick up the product. It was a little hard to find, and found that he was a very small business (but with a successful history). Also found out that he was out of the building and no one else was there! CRAP. Well, I called him and he is sending me the product I wanted to buy, covering the shipping costs! HOW COOL IS THAT! I am hoping the product is as good as his customer focus!

In the same area was a couple cool things. The H2 was mod'ed out for Big Star promotional activity. The building was an old Railroad station that had been converted to a bar/carry out.

Ran around for about 100 miles. It was good, but not great. I had to run through a lot of high traffic areas. I hate the busy areas where cars just do not pay attention to their driving, and stop-and-go traffic.

Sometimes I forget...

2010-04-29T14:34:00.002-05:00

It was a bright, sunny morning and I had several tasks that I had to run. So I decided to ride my bike. The first task was to get my hair cut. I rode up to the local barber - an old style place run by two older guys. No foo-foo stuff.

I grabbed a parking spot in front of the shop, shut the bike off, and headed off into the store. Since it is downtown, I did not bother to take my gloves off or helmet. As I walked into the shop, I started taking the bike gear off and noticed that one of the owners was really nervous. So I laughed a little, and told him that as soon as I get this helmet off he would recognize me! He immediately relaxed, laughed a little, and said "oh yeah, I already recognize the voice!"

I guess sometimes I forget that riding gear with smoke screen visor can be a little intimidating.

300 mile long weekend

2010-04-19T19:27:00.004-05:00

Had some commitments this weekend, in Norwalk and in Toledo. So I decided to make a long weekend of it and take the bike on the first real ride of the season. Temps when I started was in the mid 80's. I was in my winter bike jacket and definitely hot by the time I got to Norwalk. By the time I went to Toledo, the temps were in the high 40's/low 50's - kinda cool with no chaps or neck balaclava and just my summer gloves. By Monday morning, the sun was out and temps were in the 50's - great riding weather

On the way back, I put about an hour under my belt before stopping for coffee. I decided if I was going to have coffee, I best get something to eat as well. So I stopped in Findlay for some traditional breakfast; coffee and ice water, eggs, sausage, grits, and biscuits and gravy. If that does not fill up your belly, nothing will!

By the end of the ride, only about 120 miles, my butt was killing me. Guess I need to toughen up my tush!!! 200 miles should be a no-brainer...

A little bling...

2010-04-13T11:22:00.004-05:00

I added a little bling to the bike this afternoon. Harley's have these script name tags attached to their front fender. I bought similar name tags years ago to call out the model I have. This afternoon, I decided to finally put them on. But I did not like the way it looked on my fender. Plus - its not a Harley, so why copy them?

I checked several places, and thought the script "Nomad" looked great on the tank, augmenting the Vulcan Logo.

Reconstructed!

2010-03-25T09:41:00.003-05:00

I finished the maintenance on the bike. New clutch and brake fluid, new antifreeze, rerouted the custom wiring for the air horn, driving lights, accessory plug, LED accent lights , etc. I also did a once over on the bike, tightening all connections - this appears to be a common problem as the bikes come out of the factory.

I was amazed at the crap that came out of the brake lines. There was black crude that flushed out of both the front and back rotors. While I have not experienced any problems with the hydrolics, it was a problem in the making.

The clutch fluid is hidden behind the engine cover which was a real pain to remove! There are only four bolts which go through rubber grommets. Since the cover has not been removed since it was initially assembled clear back in 2006, it did not slide off easily. I spent 15 or 20 mins trying to gently wiggle it off. I gave up and went in for lunch. I came back out and applied some muscle. The thing finally released!

I took Kermit (the bike) for a test run, and it shorted out about one block away. I never knew how hard it was to push an 800 lb bike! Thankfully, my neighbor came out to help me get the bike up the driveway and back into the garage.

There were only two harness connections that I disconnected. So I took the first one apart and reconnected it. This time, I made sure all the wiring was correct. Unfortunately, I did not check to see if it was wrong before taking it apart, so I dont know for sure that this was the problem. I did the other connector, and then reconnected the battery. Started right up!

I need to test ride it again, but waiting until I have someone to help if I break down. But things look good and I dont expect problems.

OK - took the BIG STEP

2010-03-18T13:55:00.002-05:00

Finally took the big step - took off the gas tank. As I took a couple of the electrical connectors apart, I noticed that there was this red/pinkish dielectric grease. Weird color, but OK... And then I started noticing it on parts of the bike. I had it on my thumb. So I wiped it off and continued. I noticed that it was on more parts! Oops - not dielectric grease, but blood from a slice on my thumb. Oh well.

Poor Kermit looks like a dog that has been given a bath - skinny and frail. But now that the backbone is exposed, I can get a lot of work done. Need to change the antifreeze, brake and clutch fluids, and might as well do some rewiring too.

2010-03-09T18:13:00.010-05:00

Temperatures were in the 50's today - huge change from the 20's and 30's just a few weeks ago. There are snow drifts on the side of the road and along my driveway. The news' talking heads droned on about great weather and that we are only a few days from Spring. The sun called its siren song, tempting me to jump onto Kermit.

I have too much work to do, told myself. And my shoulder still hurt, was stiff, and still weak from the injury of a month ago. Its too risky, and just not the right thing to do.

But desire overtook the better part of judgement. The final piece of the puzzle fell into place - I needed to get my coffee beans from my coffee roaster. I was out and it simply had to be done! So why not use my bike.

I climbed onto the bike about 11:00 this morning. I took a picture of my boot propped up on the floorboard for a Facebook Group that wants pictures of what you are doing each Tuesday, with your shoes as the focal point.

I put on my heavy bike jacket, gloves, helmet. I climbed onto the bike and started it up. I looked at ClasicChap's engine guard chaps which protect legs from the wind in these cooler days. I should check the tires pressure, oil, etc. but did not. Bad Tim...

I pulled out of the drive between two snow piles straddling the entrance onto the road. The engine thrummed confidently, the cool wind rushing under my helmet and within my coat arms. Each bump in the road sent a small sharp pain through my shoulder, but the sense of freedom was worth each pin-prick.

I rode out of town. Fields were mostly still snow covered. Others had recently been tilled and the faint scent of manure somehow seemed to trigger a comfortable feeling of spring in my mind. Here and there were snow drifts along the road where just a few weeks ago snow was being pushed out of the roadway to allow cars to pass.

Twenty miles later, I pulled into Mechanicsburg and parked outside of the Hemisphere Coffee Roasters. I left with 2 lbs of my favorite, a 1/2 lb of a flavored decaff, and a handfull of chocolate covered beans.

The ride back was uneventful, but so wonderful. I pulled into the garage where I would be taking Kermit apart to do some major maintenance (fluid changes including breaks, clutch, oil, antifreeze), wiring maintenance, and installing a used trunk bought over a year ago.

I stepped out of the garage, and back into the house where I had work left to do and a meeting scheduled to review a revamp of a website. It was a great 40 mile ride, the first of the year.

sigh....

2010-03-08T18:15:00.002-05:00

It is March, and Kermit sits silently in the garage. He has been neglected throughout the winter. No maintenance done. Its been started and run a couple of times to keep the moisture down within the crankcase, and there is fuel stabilizer, and the battery charger has been thrown on a few times.

Tomorrow, I will take a few minutes to pull the bike out and run it around the block. Then pull it back into the garage so I can change the oil, and try my hand at the various fluids.

Tsk tsk...I have been such a bad bike owner.

Where is the time going?

2010-02-01T10:59:00.002-05:00

Winter is a great time to do maintenance on the bike. I need to bleed the brakes and clutch and change the anitfreeze. Brakes/Clutch should be fairly easy (he says with hesitation in his voice), but the antifreeze seems like it might be a bit more challenging. Apparently, I will need to either remove or at least slide the gas tank backwards on the bike. Like most things, the first time will be the most difficult, but it needs done. "They" say every two years, and it has the original still in it after 4 years.

Forgot to Post this

2009-12-03T16:54:00.004-05:00

Earlier this fall, an unusually beautiful day created the opportunity to get in a bike ride. The leaves had changed, temperatures were chilly but not cold, and I knew the Delaware Reservoir Park would be relatively abandoned.

I rode some of the backroads to the park. There were deer all around the fields in the area. The sun warmed the ground and trees, and unfortunately brought out the bugs too. As I rode around, I noticed a couple that was taking a break at the crossroads of Lakeview and Briar Patch trails. They were sitting on top of the sign, just relaxing and taking in the sights.

I stopped and spoke with them for awhile. Her name was Snow Proof Safety Cone. His, Cheezy Rider. They were riding cross country, and his bike broke down, so they started hoofing it. They had found the park and decided to stay there a day or so to decide what to do next. Obviously, it was going to be too far to walk all the way to California from Ohio. They figured something would reveal itself if they were patient.

We talked for a long time about options that might pop up for them. Talked about renting a car, renting a bike, hitch-hiking. None of them seemed to be right for them. They were looking for something different, but I just could not figure out what it was.

I hit the restroom, and came out of the facilities to see Cheezy Rider in the saddle of my bike, and Snow Proof Safety Cone on the back seat! They were both laughing, seeing my face of surprise. They both told me that they were joking, but secretly I was happy that I had taken the key with me.

I took off, giving my new friends a lift into town. They both have been staying in my garage as they try to decide what to do next.

Winter is setting in

2009-12-01T21:52:00.002-05:00

The temperatures have dropped, with good days approaching 50 degrees, and bad ones staying near freezing with rain/snow flurries. The engine guard chaps have been on the bike for a few weeks now. They protect the legs from the wind chills, and trap a little heat from the engines.

I have to get in whatever riding I can, eking out the last few miles of the year. With the unemployment approaching a year, and other personal issues looming, it is not clear that I will be able to keep Kermit (the Nomad) for riding next year.

Stuff is just that - stuff. I have owned other bikes, and have fond memories of this and previous bikes. And more importantly, I have the friends that I have made during this time. If it is His will, I can easily part with my Nomad.

Stay tuned - winter is coming, but the drama is still unrolling!

The season is closing

2009-10-28T21:24:00.003-05:00

So much work in trying to find my next job, and have not had nearly the free time I would have thought. I had some errands to run, and decided that I really need to take advantage of these few remaining days before the snow flies. I put air in the tires, and the chaps on the motorcycle (Classic Chaps). Temperature was in the 50's, so it put a bit of a chill in the ride. But with the heavy leather jacket and the chaps blocking the wind on the feet/legs and capturing some of the engine heat, it was nice.

People seemed to have been in a haze as they were driving. A lady at the end of my street backed her car out in front of me. Then just a mile or so down the road, an elderly lady turns left in front of me.

Please watch out for motorcycles out on the road. Many of us ride into the winter. as long as there is no ice, snow, or salt on the roads. You share the road with us, and you can easily kill us if you don't watch what you are doing. Don't drive distracted; whether it is drugs, alcohol, cell phones, flipping the radio, or simply day dreaming.

Lives depend on you knowing what you are doing. We practice avoidance techniques, defensive riding techniques, and use various tools to increase visibility so you will see us. But if there is a collision, it is flesh and leather and fiberglass helmets against multi-ton steel vehicle. We loose every time, no matter who is at fault.

Fall is setting in

2009-09-16T16:48:00.002-05:00

I needed some coffee, so I decided to take an hour and make a run to Hemisphere Coffee Roasters in Mechanicsberg, about 20 miles away. It was beautiful morning, sun shining and temps in the 60's.

What I did NOT expect to find was that fall has slipped overnight. The roads are lined with trees whose leaves are changing colors, corn fields of brown stalks, and soybean plants had bright yellow leaves.

Like an exclamation point on this observation, I found the roaster has offered a pumpkin spice decaff coffee for evening sipping.

Ahhh...the year is moving towards a close.

Interlochen '09

2009-08-18T05:46:00.006-05:00

410 miles from home is a small town called Interlochen, MI. And just west of it is a place called Cycle-Moore, a motorcycle place that took a few acres of land, put up a bath house and covered cement pad, laid down some gravel to define "roads", and called it a motorcycle campground. At $12 a night and the hottest showers around, its a true bargain - and home for the VROC Interlochen rally.

I took two days getting up there, enjoying the scenery and the area. Stayed at a Red Roof just outside of Lansing, working my way into the more basic accommodations that would soon follow. When I got to the rally on Friday afternoon, there were dozens of people already there! By the end of the weekend, over 50 people attended the rally staying in tents and motorcycle camper trailers.

Each night, we had a small bonfire. Most would wander their way to a circle about the fire, bringing chairs or picnic tables to sit on, and share their stories. There are never any "new" people at the rally, just those who have never been before and are welcomed in as quickly as the old timers. Probably 75% are return VROCers, with 25% first timers. People will ride over 1,000 miles each way to spend the weekend there.

During the day, small groups and individuals go about their site seeing, riding, or just kicking back at the campgrounds. The only rule for VROC is that "there are no rules." So everyone is free to organize group rides, participate in them, or go their merry way. I prefer the latter.

Each year, the rally is besieged by rain. Sometimes during the rally itself, sometimes on the rides back home. This year was no different. We sat around the fire on Friday night, watched the clouds darken, and eventually was inundated by waves of rain. Many suffered at the hands of the weather; some with soaked camping gear, others with damp gear that could be dried in the sun the next morning. Many took for shelter, playing cards and continuing the discussions into the wee hours of the morning.

I took two excursions over the weekend. One was to a place called The Cherry Hut. The best cherry pie known to man. And their food, while on the pricey side, tasted wonderful with large portions. It is an institution in the area, now in its 87th year and even recognized by bon appétit Magazine. The other was to take some curvy back roads into Frankfort, a town that sits on the tip of a peninsula jutting into Lake Michigan. Lots of activity, arts show, antique cars, and other touristy things. But my favorite, at the end of main street, is the sandy beach and lighthouse.

I rode back home on Sunday, getting packed and on the road by 8:30am. 420 miles later, I found myself in the garage at about 7:30. Eleven hours of riding with several stops to rehydrate and get out of the stifling heat. And true to its tradition, I dodged storms the whole way back.

It was a great time, wonderful to see people I have not seen in years. And I found that I CAN ride 400 miles in a day, if I have to. It still hurts to sit down, but such a small price to pay for the freedom and the excitement of being on the road and exposed to all there is to see.

For more pictures, some of them extraordinary, check out the Great Lakes VROC Picture blog at http://glvroc.blogspot.com/

Back from Interlochen

2009-08-16T20:40:00.002-05:00

Made it back from Interlochen Rally. Great time. Left Thursday and took two days to get up there. Left this morning at 8:30 and pulled into home about 7:30 pm. Rode 920 miles. Great time seeing VROCers. Pics to be posted tomorrow.

What is VROC - "No Rules" is just one answer

2009-08-06T17:08:00.007-05:00

Copied without permission, but with credit. Thank you Mr. Greenblatt

From "Club Corner", September 2009 issue, RoadBike magazine, titled, "VROC: Vulcan Riders and Owners Club", by Tyler Greenblatt

Vulcan riders must be among the most technologically skilled motorcycle enthusiasts. The Vulcan Riders and Owners Club(VROC) is a group of over 30,100 riders who mostly use the Internet for club communication and VROC is open to any Vulcan owner.

VROC started with just a few Vulcan owners e-mailing each other. Eventually, two separate e-mail lists caught wind of one another and joined forces. Finally, the list grew large enough to warrant automation of the proceedings and the founding of the official VROC online club.

Part of VROC is operated similarly to an online forum. Some of the main subjects of discussion are ways to customize the bikes and how to enhance the Vulcan's performance. However, discussion topics can range from rides to politics. VROC members make friends and share stories and experiences with the same passion as they have for actually riding their machines.

VROC is not a club in the traditional sense. It is essentially run by its members, and rules are basically the online "terms of use" agreement. But this isn't to say that these guys and gals sit in front of their computers all weekend. There are 21 "local" chapters, each in a different state or province. There are also another 20 chapters, each of which spans multiple states or even entire countries. There are VROC's in Germany, Italy, and New Englend, to name a few. The web site, or, more appropriately, clubhouse, has a calendar section with the specific details of each event, and a sign-up button. Members are designated with numbers based on their order of joining, as well as a nickname that is used as a forum ID. They get access to discounts at member-owned businesses and facilities, as well as VROC-friendly bulinesses and facilities. Joining VROC is free, but the recommended yearly contribution is $25 to help pay for server space and servicing."

Time brings growth

2009-07-30T17:44:00.003-05:00

A common notion, in time there is growth. It applies to riding as well. With riding comes experience and confidence. I just updated my "visited States" map with selecting the states in which I rode one of my motorcycles.

I think I have picked off the easy states, those nearby Ohio. Now I will have to consider putting some real time in the saddle to expand this map. New York and Poconos? Wisconsin Dells? Time will tell. Hopefully, it will not happen because of the time commitment at a new job. ;-)

What does coffee and riding have in common?

2009-07-28T13:48:00.008-05:00

I enjoy a good cup of coffee. Dark roast but lower acid. I even was considering buying my own roaster and buying green beans. The problem with roasted beans is that they have a couple week shelf life until they start loosing their flavor. And ground coffee is loses its flavor quicker than the time it takes to read this post! Its not that coffee is bad after that, but it is deteriorating.

There are a few roasters in Columbus, but who wants to drive 30-40 miles to downtown Columbus to pick up a pound of coffee? Then I was told about a micro-roaster in a small town. I looked them up, they were exactly as billed - a small roaster supplying mostly local coffee houses. What I did not know was their business mission (click on mission below to go to their website).

"Fresh Roasted Coffee - If you are looking for fresh roasted coffee that benefits the Christian Church in coffee growing regions, you have come to the right place. Hemisphere Coffee Roasters is on a mission: to assist the Christian Church in coffee growing countries by purchasing coffee directly from farmers who will be a blessing to entire communities.

We do this by working through farming-partners who have demonstrated their care for the community and by paying honest prices for the best coffee our partners grow. These prices are not fixed and are not tied to the commodities (NYBOT) market. Through relationships of trust, respect and transparency, we agree on a price. Last year our average price paid directly to the farmer before shipping was .30 higher than certified Fair Trade coffee."

"Nice" you say, "but what does this have to do with riding?" Well, I took the 20 mile ride to their shop this afternoon. Five minutes to get out of time, and all the rest was on rural roads. Most of it straight and flat, but a few 25mph 90 degree twisties just to wake you up. Run through a few small towns, one of which actually has a traffic light. And then into Mechanicsburg. One traffic light and street signs that have seen better days and no longer match the roads they mark.

The HEMISPHERE COFFEE ROASTERS is a small shop hidden on main street, very easy to miss. I did! I finally gave up, parked the bike, and walked the street. The shop was homey and cute, and the owners were very friendly and helpful. I brought my camera, but forgot to actually use it!

The ride back was just as fun as the ride down. As I turned into my neighborhood, a trailer/SUV had stopped in the middle of the road. A young couple just moving into their new-to-them house had lost several pieces of furniture off the trailer. I pulled off to the side of the road, helped them reload their furniture, wished them happiness in their new home, and headed off for the last 1/2 mile to the garage.

Its amazing the people you meet when you ride. That is what is great about riding - the people I meet. Sometimes they are in the stores and restaurants, sometimes they are running the hotels and campgrounds, and often those I just meet on the road. And that is what coffee and riding have in common - the people.

Great Lakes VROC Rally

2009-07-16T11:43:00.008-05:00

Last weekend was the third annual GLVROC rally. Imagine 30+ people riding motorcycles converging on one property in Swanton, a town in the northwestern corner of Ohio. That is what we did this year, pitching tents and taking advantage of Boomer and Shannon's generosity by sleeping on the floor, couches, and spare bedrooms in their home.

It was well represented from as one rider coming from South Carolina, and several from Canada. It truly was an International event!

I rode nearly 300 miles over the weekend. For the evening, I opted for the small blue tent (misplacing the tent poles for the larger tent), and had to sleep corner to corner! But with the king size air mattress pushing against the sides of the tent, I was fairly comfortable and stayed dry despite a couple rain storms.

With high temps, each night we sat around a large circle and shared each others' company and stories. As the sun set, we moved to the fire and continued the laughing and stories until late in the evening...ok, really around 11:00 or midnight - most of us are old folks!

Sorry about not posting

2009-06-14T18:52:00.002-05:00

I got to the Rally in Richmond KY, and spent time exploring the area and the rally. Got carried away and did not post for awhile.

Today, I left around 10:30 or so in the morning and got home a few hours ago, safe and sound! Ended up just 15 miles short of 1,000 mile trip. With newer tires, there is some rounding error, so I am claiming it as my first 1,000 mile trip!!!

Lots of pictures to post....will add them in the next day or two.

Day three - Two states, rain, thunderstorms, rain, and Bob

2009-06-10T16:10:00.004-05:00

The ride started in Hurricane, WV in hot, sticky weather that smelled of rain. Within about 40 miles, a light rain started and I pulled off to a Bob Evans. Then the sky opened up, and down came the rain in buckets. Thanks to the nice waitress and manager, I was able to sit for a couple hours sipping coffee and waiting for a break in the weather. Finally, it came, and I took off in a light shower.

That quickly changed back to downpours, at times so hard it was difficult to see. I pulled off at this gas station, filled up the tank, and waited until the heavy stuff passed, and then I was off again. I kept thinking of those cowboys from years ago, trudging for days on horseback with no protection and days between towns.

It stormed almost the entire way - 150+ miles of ugly rain, thunder, and lightening. But I finally got to Richmond KY and met up with a couple of VROCers who had just pulled in. They had rain for about 30 mins....me, over several hours! The map below is the route that I took, and the red hashes are where I ran into storms.

I know someone is saying "why didn't you wait until it passed?' The forecast called for worse weather tonight and yet worse for tomorrow. As I am sitting here in the hotel looking out the window, I see blue sky and sun shine. I hate weather forecasters.... 8^(

Day 2 - Asylum, aliens, thunderstorms, hail, and 2 states

2009-06-09T19:55:00.011-05:00

Took another 200 day trip. This time from Washington, PA to Hurricane, WV. Two states, and a lot of beautiful roads.

The first stop was the Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston WV. Constructed between 1858 and 1881, is the largest hand-cut stone masonry building in North America, and is purportedly the second largest in the world, next to the Kremlin. It was renamed Weston Hospital.

Then a stop in Flatwoods, WV to see the "Green Monster." I was a little disappointed in trying to find a souvenir of the monster. Just some big ugly plastic things. What's the Green Monster?

"September 12, 1952 the United States Government was shocked when a damaged UFO penetrated this country’s airspace and crash-landed on a farm in the small town of Flatwoods, West Virginia among the Allegheny Mountains. "

Stopping for lunch, a thunderstorm ran through the town. I figured it would pass -and it did. But it was followed by lightening, thunder, and hail. After it all passed, the sun came out and I resumed the trip. About 10 miles down the road I ran into another thunderstorm. It was ugly and the curves became a little unnerving. But eventually made it to Charleston, WV - in rush hour. A multi-car accident on the highway made the final miles of the trip miserable, but I finally made it to Hurricane, WV where I am spending the night. My butt is sore, and I am soaked and tired. But that is nothing that a couple of beers and a shower wont fix!

Tomorrow, I am planning on making it to Richmond, KY which is where the rally is being held.

Day 1 of WWR trip, three states

2009-06-08T17:28:00.005-05:00

As typical of most of my adventures, getting started was a true challenge. Got the dogs to the vets, but the little one was petrified. So scared that he actually threw up! Then I got back home and thunderstorms and lightening crashed in about the area. I thought I would have to cancel and start a day late.

But all turned good and I finally got on the road. Kermit (my motorcycle) handled great, and I had no rain. Put on just a little over 200 miles which will be my intended average. Not a lot of miles, but with high temps (in the 80's) and high humidity, it will beat ya down!

This picture came as I crossed the Ohio River, going from Ohio into West Virginia. I missed the welcome to WV sign, but thought it was a good idea to focus on my riding instead! ;-)

Here is a pic as I entered into PA from WV. This one, I pulled off the road to get a decent picture - so don't yell at me on this one! OK, so I did have to step into the road, but I looked first!

The bike is in a covered area at the Red Roof Inn (there was room at the inn, of course it is not Christmas yet). The rain just started coming down, and a bunch of construction workers who were planning on a cookout have scrambled into their rooms. Tomorrow, if the weather holds, it is back into WV to stay in Charleston - another 200 mile day. Hopefully it will be a little cooler, but just as dry.

From Here to Kingdom Come

2009-06-03T21:09:00.004-05:00

Whether you call it the WWR (Wolfman Wondering Rally), the KY rally, or the "From Here to Kingdom Come" rally, its all the same. A couple hundred motorcycles from all over the continent converging on the small town of Richmond KY.

Images of Hell's Angels come to mind, but would be so far from wrong. We are all members of the internet-based riding club called VROC (Vulcan Riders and Owners Club). Vulcans are a brand of motorcycles manufactured by Kawasaki. Over 30,000 people have joined the club at www.vroc.org and exchange technical information, and more often connect on a personal level sharing personal successes, tragedies, and request for support and prayers to overcome our daily challenges.

So members often stage get-togethers (rallys) where we can actually meet those we share our lives with in the virtual world. Most are smaller, local rides and rallys. But there are some larger get-togethers as well, and this is one of them.

Instead of riding directly to the event, I am planning a more circuitous route - including WV, PA, OH, KY and maybe TN if the weather holds (map below). I am taking the blackberry and laptop with me, and hoping to do some posting of the pictures taken along the way.

For more info, check here: http://www.heretokingdomcome.com/

Brandy Winfield Memorial Poker Run this Saturday

2009-06-02T19:36:00.001-05:00

Brandy Winfield Memorial Poker Run this Saturday, and I plan to be there!

On October 14th, 2004 Deputy Brandy Winfield was murdered in the line of duty. He paid the ultimate sacrifice to his community while assisting a disabled motorist. He died doing what he loved. Brandy was also a beloved father, husband, son, brother, and friend to anyone that had the pleasure to meet him.

We continue his spirit of giving back to his community. The proceeds from this ride will benefit RICHWOOD POLICE DEPARTMENT K-9 UNIT FUND and Fraternal Order of Police, Steve Young Memorial Lodge #24, Marion, OH.

Since the first run on June 4, 2005, the Brandy Winfield Memorial Poker Run has raised $68,400. The groups and organizations that have benefited from this are the Winfield Children Trust Fund, The Brandy Winfield Memorial Scholarship Fund, Ridgedale High School Athletic Department, Concerns of Police Survivors – Ohio Chapter, Concerns of Police Survivors – Kids Camp Program, Tri-Rivers Joint Vocational School Law Enforcement Program, Marion Safety City Program and Marion City Police Officer Cory Winfield's Recovery Effort.

--- http://www.brandywinfieldrun.org/index.html

Ride to Portsmouth Oh

2009-04-27T15:37:00.004-05:00

On Saturday, Henry, Rita, and I took off for Portsmouth which is on the border of Ohio and KY, sitting on the Ohio River. The sun was shining, and temps were in the 80's - hot for April. It was a great ride, and the companionship was great.

The intended destination was the floodwall along the river. The wall has a series of murals painted directly on the concrete. Vibrant and 3D, the images were amazing. The scenes all depicted things local to Portsmouth.

The overall ride was 270 miles, a great medium distant ride. I finally got the saddle adjusted and had no pain throughout the entire ride! The heat was pretty tough as I foolishly wore my leather coat. And of course, the full face helmet, cloves, boots. But we drank a lot of water to stay hydrated. When we hit home, we had to stop for a couple of cold ones to celebrate a great ride!

Here are a few shots just to give you an idea on what the wall looks like. It is definitely worth a day trip for anyone nearby.

Short but enjoyable

2009-04-18T21:03:00.004-05:00

Got out for a little over 100 miles today - a HD Sportster, HD Superglide, and my Nomad. Helped a guy pick out a Harley emblem for his passenger backrest. Then stopped at Cracker Barrel for lunch. But we had to get back so one of the group could get to work.

My partners in crime today...

Here is the route we took. Same way back as we took out.

Early summer days

2009-03-19T07:31:00.004-05:00

It was beautiful weather the last few days, and I took advantage of them! Tuesday, I ran up to a local reservoir and then through the country to Delaware, and then back home. My intent was to get some pictures of the bike in a cool location. But was not impressed with anything I found.

Yesterday, I rode the bike to run some errands, including going to Batteries Plus in Hilliard for a new battery for my son's phone (nope, did not fix the problem). I decided to take a run into Dublin and took some shots at the Field of Corn. It is located in the Sam and Eulalia Frantz Park in Dublin, Oh at the corner of Rings Road and Franz Road. All-in-all, spent around 120 miles over the two days.

Temps have been in the low 70's, a rarity this time of year. Today, we are going back to seasonal temperatures of low 50's. Now I am planning on a bike trip (first of the year), leaving on Friday afternoon and returning Sunday.

the Bike Bug

2009-03-16T15:39:00.004-05:00

Friday morning, I put on my jacket, boots, helmet, thinsulate gloves and got on the bike. I did not even put on chaps or the neck protector thing. Yeah, it was cold. Temps were in the 20's (F) and there was heavy frost on the vehicles. Windchills of riding at 70mph were near zero when adjusted for the windshield and engine guard chaps. The wind stung my neck, legs were cold, and fingers started to get numb. Damn, it felt good.

The looks on the faces of some of the cagers was priceless as I passed them on a country 2 lane road. As I passed an 18-wheeler, I saw him pick up his CB mike, looking at me the whole time. About 1/2 mile behind him was another truck, and he was watching me and laughing and talking on his radio. A third was doing the same. It could have been my imagination, but I bet those guys were getting one heck of a chuckle out of the ice sickle on two wheels.

Today (Monday), I took an hour and washed my bike. Tomorrow is supposed to be near 70 degrees, and I am going for a ride and to take some pictures. Not sure where yet. And if the weather turns nice for Wed, I might even do an over-nighter to spend some time drinking green beer!

Beautiful Ride on Saturday

2009-03-09T10:46:00.003-05:00

Went for a beautiful ride on Saturday. Up to Findlay, an espresso at cafe amici, and a walk around the river. Only 130 miles, but each mile was glorious. A little windy, but still a great ride with temperatures going over 70!

This picture is from a walking bridge that spans the river. From a distance, it looks like a derelict railroad trestle, but it is actually part of a bike trail.

First ride of the season just around the corner?

2009-03-02T23:26:00.003-05:00

The weather has been cold and cruel. The few days where temps exceeded freezing were preceded by snow and ice storms. That left piles of salt and pools of highly corrosive salt water. But we have had some rain washing the salt away, and the temperatures are supposed to be warmer this weekend. Maybe a ride? Maybe?? Please????

Oh yeah...and I still have to tidy up the wires on the light bar, and aim the lights. Guess I better get on that since I finished the install back in early January!

Update on Lightbar, and Detroit Motorcycle Show

2009-01-10T20:30:00.006-05:00

Detroit Show was right after New Years in Novi, Michigan. It was an exceptional show, in my opinion. The attendee turnout ended up being relatively light, so I was able to sit on a lot of bikes, and do a lot of close looking on others, and talking with the various factory reps.

I was very disappointed in the new Kawasaki voyager as well as the nomad. The bags were flimsy - very flimsy. The seating area was cramped. There were several other aspects that just did not appeal to me. I sat on a voyager and just did not feel right - like it was smaller than my Nomad.

I spent some time with one of the reps (probably close to 1/2 hour), and she agreed that there has been "mixed" customer reaction. Asked about the red color, and she believes it is not coming out this year.

I asked about the engine, why they came out with a completely new engine, and not use either the 4 cyl or the 1600 or 2000. She said that they wanted to keep the V-Twin (we were discussion the Nomad mostly at that point). She indicated that what they did was use the top of the 1600 and mated it to the bottom of the 2000. So it really was not a completely new engine.

We also talked about why the belt as opposed to the drive shaft. She started with weight and increased angle flexibility, but ultimately came to what I considered to be the real truth - it was a marketing decision based on what other bikes in this group were doing.

As a side note, I looked at the Victory Vision. Hated the looks...then I sat on one. I am in LOVE. It felt like the bike was made for me - with room to stretch out, great reach, low seating, and a decent size engine (1731cc). Lots of protection in a huge batwing and fiberglass lowers. Kind of tight between the boot toe and the shifter when upshifting, but a protective film would prevent any potential scuffing.

Oh - and as a followup to the wiring on spots, I just extended the wires and everything is installed. Need to tidy the wires up a bit, but all the hard work is done!

Problems with the light bar

2008-12-29T12:02:00.003-05:00

All was well installing the cobra lightbar...until I tried to reconnect the turn signals. Maybe I am doing something wrong, or the original wiring harness was trimmed pretty close. The right turn signal connectors are tight, but was able to connect. The Left (as sitting on the bike) are not even making it into the headlight bucket!

The first picture below show how I ran the wires under the cover and up - the exact same path they originally were on the stock lightbar.

The second picture shows where the three connectors just barely peek into the back of the headlight bucket. The yellow wire is a fishing wire and is wrapped around the three turn signal wires.

Click on the pics to see larger images. Am I doing something wrong? Or do I have to bite the bullet and extend these wires?

Last ride of the 2008

2008-12-27T19:52:00.004-05:00

I took my last "ride" of the year this morning. Threw on my jacket and helmet, climbed on top of Kermit, and off I went...to the gas station down the road. OK, so not really a long ride...maybe 8 miles. But I was able to fill the gas tank so that I could finish winterizing the bike.

But this is the time of year when you start planning your trips for the next year. VROC has a rally in Kentucky where over a hundred Vulcan riders will converge on a single location. My plans are to hit 6 states in a week, and log between 1,000 - 1,500 miles in various type of riding - flat straight highways and mountain roads.

A large figure eight, seeing all over the Midwest!

A Special Thank you

2008-12-14T23:27:00.003-05:00

I received a very special Christmas present over the weekend. My sister found a local artist who did a wonderful pencil sketch of Kermit and me. The picture was taken when I was at Grand Lakes St. Marys, a special place to me that I have ridden to many times. The piece of art is a wonderful surprise and means more to me than she will ever know. Thanks Sis!!!

Oh crap

2008-11-27T14:11:00.003-05:00

Decided i would take a quick run on the bike today. it is in the mid 40's, so a perfect day to get out. I hopped on Kermit, turned the key, hit the start button and the bike lurched forward! Normal for bikes as I had left it in first gear, and the clutch plates tend to stick after sitting for awhile in cold weather.

I tried it again, and the engine turned over, but barely. Not enough to start. Hmmm.....tried it again, and same thing. OK- so it was not my imagination. Looked at the voltmeter - 11.5 amps. crap. The battery was near dead. Another factor of cold weather and not riding for a while.

So instead of taking a quick ride, Kermit is on resuscitation - charging the battery with the battery tender. The battery is 3 years old, so only middle-aged. I am hoping it is not going south on me.

Not ready to give up yet

2008-11-24T21:25:00.002-05:00

We have experienced snow, ice, and days of temperatures that did not exceed freezing. But I have not put Kermit away for the winter. Still hoping for another nice-enough day, I am keeping the Nomad ready for a trip at a minutes notice. The temperatures themselves are not reason for concern; I have the gear to stay warm well below freezing. But the ice and slush can be dangerous and keeps me off the road.

I was paging through this blog, looking for some pictures of last year's motorcycle shows. Paging through, I found a couple of interesting facts. In late October, I was riding along Lake Erie when it was nearly freezing when I took off in the morning. And November 24th and 25th were in the 40's, and gave me a short respite for a ride. So hopefully the forecast for this Thanksgiving to be in the 40's with no rain holds true for this year!

Oh yeah...I also noticed that on December 31, I was able to take the daughter out for a short ride too! Ahhhh, Ohio.....you never can tell what weather you will be facing.

If you want to hear God laugh, tell him your plans...

2008-11-02T19:42:00.003-05:00

The plans for today - get on the bike, go to Service which included a celebration of Pastor Jack's 20th year as a Pastor, the ride up to Frickers to watch the Brown's play. About 10 mins before leaving, the phone rang. My daughter was in the emergency room, taken there by the boarding school she is attending. With that call, all plans changed.

I did get on the bike, but to the hospital instead. She is having some trouble with her movements, most likely due to a medication reaction. But until they know for sure, they are keeping her for observation. She is a little scared because she has lost some control of her head movement, and occasionally some problems with her eyes. But I do think it is just a short term issue until they figure out what exactly is going on.

I did get to ride the bike for about 200 miles. Much of it is highway, so easy and relaxing riding. A few minor twists, but nothing to challenge the riding skills. It was a nice day for it; cool but not cold. And the sun shown warm until it set this evening. I started out from the hospital too late, and spent the last 45 mins riding in the dark. I hate that. But I made it home safe and sound.

The number of days for riding this year are quickly dropping. Cold weather gear is not stored in the saddlebags as I may be surprised on some ride, and need it. And the game, you ask? The Brownies lost, I am told. Maybe I did not miss that much after all...

Another day of errands

2008-11-01T21:14:00.002-05:00

My former laptop died - bless its soul. Heat postration did both the computer and the hard-drive in. So I have purchased a little (underscore LITTLE) laptop that can easily go with me on rides and camping or just general trips. But it did not come with a CD or DVD recorder, so I had to go buy one.

Off to Dublin, OH and Best Buy to buy a DVD recorder. And with temperatures in the 70's, I could not resist riding the bike. It was only about 50 miles today, but felt great!!!

Interestingly enough, as I came out of Best Buy, I heard the bike alarm going off, and a car speeding away. Dont know for sure what happened, but I do know that I am happy that I put that alarm on the bike!!!

Tomorrow, I am planning to go to Outbound Service (also called Contemporary Service), and then off to watch the Cleveland Browns play in Findlay. My plans are to ride the bike to both service and the game! It is Pastor Jack's 20th anniversary at St. Johns...,.and he is a biker enthusiast.

More tomorrow after I return from the ride!!!

Another season coming to a close

2008-09-28T07:42:00.004-05:00

Another riding season is coming to a close. And again have not taken that week to ride around the country, camping in the state parks and private campgrounds. The riding season has not ended yet, and highs are still in the 70's, but the calendar is telling me that time is slipping through my fingers.

I will be riding to watch the Cleveland Browns today. Only around 130 miles round-trip. But better than nothing.

Update:
Took off at about 10am. The temps were perfect as I turned out of my community and took a run North. As I clicked through the gears, the stress fell away...those associated with family...those associated with work....those associated with self doubt. Soon, I was a modern cowboy riding an iron horse, charging into the day. The roads called to me, a siren's song to chase the horizon and leave all the pain behind.

All to quickly, I found myself close to Fricker's, and the friends that would be expecting me there. Reluctantly, I pulled off the highway, and into the parking lot. I was first there, and the waitress had our table ready and got the first of a few beers shared during the Brown's first win of the season.

The ride home found me in the same mood. The road called for a longer excursion; days? weeks? months? years? who knows. When I am on the bike, there is only "NOW". And the "Now"s follow each other ad infinitum...separated by a few meals, a few drinks of water, and a night's sleep. I felt myself drifting to an image of riding until I could ride no more. Then find an area where I could sleep for a few hours and continue the trip again.

But as I drew close to my home neighborhood, I made the right turn into the familiar streets and into the driveway and garage. The truth came back to me...I have responsibilities, a family, a job, friends. And those responsibilities mean I can not answer the siren's call of the open road. And in reality, that is OK. My family, friends, job mean so much more than the myth of the open road. Truly, I really have the best life.

And yet, there is Kermit in the garage, highway just a few hundred yards away, and I still hear that siren's call in the distance.

Kilo's Last Wish

2008-09-08T21:24:00.003-05:00

A month or so, I reported about a member of VROC's passing, and his last wish. Here is an exerpt from the memorium that Kudzu put together on the vroc site (http://www.vroc.org/inmemoriam.php?item=3430). It is a demonstration of the bond that exists between the men and women of this group, many of which have never actually met.

Kilo's Last Wish

Kilo's last wish was to have his ashes spread as wide as his VROC brothers and sisters could spread them. The response to this request was overwhelming. Over 65 destinations were ultimately volunteered. Many were made into, or will be made into, VROC group rides. All are touching and special. Here is a list of all who volunteered their time to spread Kilo's ashes. Where possible, the actual location of the final resting place will be posted.

Travis Webster - Blanchard, OK
Barb & Jack Foree - Holbrook, AZ
Desert View Lookout, Grand Canyon
Steve Thurgood - Olympia, WA
Paradise near Mt. Rainier
Lake Quinault
Pacific Ocean, Kalaloch, WA
Cape Flattery, WA
Hurrican Ridge
Sue Edwards - Seymour, MO
Craig Cairns - Middleton, Nova Scotia, Canada
Lookoff - Over the Annapolis Valley
Dianna Hughey - Conway, AZ
Ozarks - VROC World Reuntion 2008
George Carr - Verona, PA
Alan Sciascia - Tauranga, New Zealand
Waihau Bay, NZ (north)
Dave Mitchell - New Zealand
Bluff Harbour at Twhai Point - NZ (south)
Paul Elliot - New Zealand
West Cape Lighthouse - Pungarehu, NZ (west)
Howard Asplin - New Zealand
Manawatu, Tararuas, Waihi Falls - NZ (east)
Jim Robinson - Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
Joe Agro - Millington, NJ
Jack & Gale McGuigan - Kingston, TN
Santeelah Overlook – Cherohala
Tail of the Dragon – Deals Gap
Anthony Drager - Phoenix, AZ
Steve Cifra - Nashua, NH
Annual NEVROC Ride, Bethel, ME
New Hampshire location TBD
Cletus Berkley - Trinidad, West Indies
Scott Sprankle - Elgin, OK
Wolf Road Ranch - soon
Kevin A. Rose - Issaquah, WA
Deception Pass on Whidbey Island
Vern VanDiver - Federal Way, WA
Discovery Bay near Port Townsend, WA
Beach at Fort Warden, WA
Point Wilson Lighthouse, WA
Mark & Yuka Williams - Hukusan City, Japan
Tedori Gorge
Marshall Anderson - Suffolk, VA
Avalon Pier – Outer Banks, NC
Jockey’s Ridge – Outer Banks, NC
Bridge over the Alligator River on Rte 64
Sandbanks Road, Gates County, NC
Jamestown Ferry & Jamestown, VA
Western Branch Lake Dam, Suffolk, VA
The Great Dismal Swamp Wildlife Refuge, Suffolk, VA
Family 165 acre horse farm, Whispering Pines, Suffolk, VA
Vaughn Devereaux - Screven, GA
Christian Ritz - Stoughton, MA
Chris McVean - Calgary, AB, Canada
Zabrina Grillo-Pineiro - Miami, FL
Wayne Osborne - LaGrange, GA
Chatahoochee River's West Point Lake
Top of Pine Mountain
James Vierkant - Sumner, IA
Lisa Livington - Federal Way, WA
Bruce Rojo - Weat Sacramento, CA
North End of Golden Gate Bridge
Sheldon Conrad - Colleyville, TX
Kelly Cobb - Brandon, FL
Sunshine Skyway Bridge - Gulf of Mexico (November)
Mitchell Pittman - Rogers, AZ
Jerry Kuechmann - Rutherfordton, NC
Mt. Mitchell, NC
Caesar's Head State Park, SC
Chris Luszey - Hudson, NH
Steve Gladfeleter - El Dorado, KS

Al Mottram - Whippnay, NJ
Delaware Water Gap, PA
Roebling Bridge on the Delaware River
The Hawks Nest, Deer Park, NY
Asbury Park, NJ
Willie Kohlenberger - Murphysboro, IL
Top of the Gateway Arch, St Louis, MO
Vince Hancock - Pilot Mountain, NC
Tommy Willcockson - Beaver Dam, VA
James Wiers - Williamsburg, VA
Jamestown Island, VA
Colonial Williamsburg
Yorktown Victory Monument
Greg & Lisa Giesbrecht - Westminister, CO
At 14,270 ft at the top of Mount Evans
Kevin Phillips - Afton, VA
Afton Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Top of Humpback Rocks - Fall 2008
Michael Blow - Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Ottawa River, Canada
Don Moore - Eustis, FL
Jim Shulthiess - Rockingham, NC
South of the Border, SC
Laurinburg, NC
Steve Donat - Elyria, OH
Tony Newman - Hixson, TN
Bald River Falls, TN
Tennessee River, Chattanooga Riverfront
Robert Kilgore - San Angelo, TX
Along the 3's - Routes 335, 336 and 337 - Texas
Patrick Mullaney - Sparrows Point, MD
Chesapeake Bay
Atlantic Ocean at Ocean City, MD
Fyodor & Julie Golos - Madison, AL
Gordon Parker - Hayes, VA
Yorktown Memorial on the York River
Brandon Caldwell - Greenville, SC
Curtis Smith - Ringgold, GA
Trevor Eich - Colorado Springs, CO
Pikes Peak, CO
James DeMent - Simi Valley, CA
Von Floyd - Houston, TX
Sherm Acord - Coos Bay, OR
Cape Arago, OR
Near Sahalie Falls in the Cascade Mountains
Tim Rose - Marysville, OH
Sidney Harbor, Sidney, Australia
Royal Botanical Gardens, Melbourne, Australia
The Dam at the Deleware Reservoir, Delaware, OH
Robert Roberts - Norfolk, VA
Virginia Beach, VA
Bob Oglesby - Watkinsville, GA
Lee Jaderlund - Tacoma, WA
Whiskey Creek, WA
Beacon Rock on the Columbia River
Fish Lake at the head waters of the Salmon La Sac River
Peak with a beautiful view of Mt. Rainier near Enumclaw, WA
Aldo Mattos - Miami, FL
Shores of Guaruja in Brazil
Joe Malachi - Silt, CO
Brian Flammer - Royersford, PA
Deer Park, NY - Roebling Bridge
Portland, PA Overlook
Lee Denman - Skokan, NY
Rondout Creek at Buttermilk Falls
Ken Sabodish - Tarentum, PA
Ohio River at "The Point" in Pittsburgh, PA
Joe Blanc - Colorado
Hanging Lake, CO
Warren Jorgensen - Tarryton, NY

And also from Susie:

According to my last count 65 people volunteered to help scatter Kilo's ashes. His ashes will also be scattered in family home towns of Kansas City, MO, Mound City, KS and Garner, NC. And my son, Chris plans to scatter Kilo among the White Mountains of NH.

Good Times, Bad Game

2008-09-07T21:42:00.003-05:00

It was a great ride up to Findlay to watch the game. Even went through downtown to see what I missed last Friday, a bike bash that benefits United Way. Good time at the game. Bad result, however. And I am not sure I like riding in the pitch dark in the country roads. You never know what might jump out from the woods.
There are usually a lot of good friends there. Some bring family too! And with such a large and varied group each week we always have some non-Brownie fans to jeer (or take jeering from).

FOOTBALL SEASON STARTS SUNDAY

2008-09-06T19:45:00.005-05:00

For the last three years, I have been going to the Frickers in Findlay to enjoy the game with beer, wings, and friends. Tomorrow starts the 2008-2009 Season for the Brownies. How well will they do this year? It does not really matter. I have been a Browns fan for as long as I remember, through good times (I think there were a few) and the heartbreaks (more than a few!).

I will be riding my bike up tomorrow as long as the weather holds. Will be riding back in the dark, but should be fine. Will have to replace the beer with Diet Pepsi though!

Labor Day Ride

2008-09-01T16:01:00.006-05:00

Every Labor Day and every Memorial Day, Hudson Leather's throws a customer appreciation day and has a party and gathering for hundreds and hundreds of bikers. VROCers set up a time to meet one of the days. This year, it was noon Sunday. I took off Sunday morning on a comfortably cool morning, riding up to meet the group. Hudson Leathers is in the middle of nowhere in rural Ohio.

Need fuel? Better take advantage of what you can find! Here is a gas station that is litterally out in the middle of nowhere. There are towns not too far away, but unless you know where, you could be out of luck.

Getting there, we say dozens and dozens, if not hundreds of bikes parked on both sides of the Hudson's little store. The lots were gravel as well as the entrances. You better be comfortable with your bike!!! This is part of the larger lot, maybe 1/3 of it.

Hudson has one large tent in addition to the their store. The brought in in a couple of heavy leather sewing machines to sew on patches, or alter leather gear. Here is a picture of the front

There was free hot dogs, $.50 pops and $1 waters which were great munchies for all the attendees. In addition, there were six to seven other vendors there, ranging from food to accessories to choppers to Jesus Loves You. Here a few pictures of the custom bikes.

I love central Ohio Riding

2008-08-26T13:29:00.011-05:00

I took the day off today to get some personal errands completed. But that did leave me with a little time to go for a short ride. Temperatures in the mid 70's made it just about perfect. So I took off with very few plans in mind. I grabbed the camera with hopes of catching a few pictures that would be of interest. What I captured is typical central Ohio.

Central Ohio rides can be a wonderful experience. There are highways like Rt 70 and Rt 71 cross the state in 4 lane divided ribbons. But for those a little more willing to take some time and see what the state has to offer, you will be rewarded with everything from straight long flat roads like US Route 40 (http://www.route40.net) that crosses the continent, to small gravel roads, to thrills of cresting a hill and encountering a set of blind curves starting with a 90 degree left followed by a 270 degree right switchback. Central Ohio brings together the best twisty roads of West Virginia with the long droning roads of Iowa with corn fields on both sides of the road. All this in a 60 mile ride. And along the roadside, you will find remnants of our history, running back through the 1900’s, 1800’s and occasionally 1700's. Some of these artifacts are exciting and have remained vital, others are derelicts representing a lifestyle that has gone by the wayside.

Just a few miles from my home are covered bridges and this Steel Truss bridge built in 1914 and is heavily used still today. It is nestled in the middle of nowhere, spanning a creek that, unless it has just rained, could be driven through by most of today's cars.

Small towns dot the roadside, often not large enough for a traffic light. Many have a church, a bar, and a general store. Some have old buildings still in use for town meetings and business, while other buildings have gone into disrepair and abandonment.

And throughout the countryside, you will find places to celebrate The Lord. Some churches tend to be hundreds of years old, stone monuments to large congregations and history. Others a small buildings, not much more than a shell of a building whose utiletarian style serves a preacher and a small congregation who is devote believers. And others are more like chapels, beautiful buildings with stained glass windows and towers that overlook the local farmland and small communities which they serve. All are beautiful in their own way.

All of these pictures were taken on a 60 mile ride just west of Columbus. I started going south on Rte 38, down to Rte 40. Then west until I hit route 56 where I headed north to Route 4 which took me back home.

With all the beauty, there are risks. Over the weekend, a bee flew into my helmet and stung me on the chin. Dang that hurt, but I was on the road and couldn't do anything but suffer through the sting. It is Tuesday, and that sting is still red and sore!!!

Weekend Ride

2008-08-24T14:44:00.005-05:00

Spent a wonder weekend away from everything! It was hot (over 90 degrees) and sunny, and of course I was riding in near-full gear. Got to the hotel, got to a room, and found a nice cozy place for Kermit to spend out of the sun and rain (if it happened). Walked across the parking lot to a grocery store, grabbed some snacks and a 12 pack. Guess I was dehydrated a little as all but 3 bottles were gone by the time I fell asleep!

Saturday, morning, got up and rode over for breakfast at Cracker Barrel. A great national chain that guarantees good food at a decent price. I was riding with the face shield up so I could plenty of ventilation in that mile or so ride. A bug found his way into my helmet, hit me in the face, and fell down onto my chin. I figured it was a fly, and could feel it stumbling around on my chin. At that point, I found out what it really was - a BEE!!!! The darn thing stung me on my chin! It was painful, but nothing I could do as I was on a multi-lane road with planty of traffic. Sure enough, it swelled up and hurt Saturday, and by Sunday simply was itching.

After breakfast, and at least some of the pain subsiding, I took off for Grand Lake St. Mary's. It was about a 70 mile ride, and the sun beating down on me the whole time. Got a little lost, but the GPS saved me, pointing me down the right path. Got to the lake, changed clothes into a pair of short jeans, and jumped into the cool, algae laden lake. I layed around in the lake for a couple hours, along with all the campers and locals. "Sunscreen? We don't need no stinking sunscreen!" Yup - you guessed it. Sunburned shoulders!

Got back to the hotel, about 7 or 8 hours after leaving. Tired, hot, sweaty, and hungry. Got some chineese, went back to the hotel, and then ate. Then, of course, I went to watch the Browns "play" football - play, cause the sure as heck were not taking it seriously!

I only rode about 150 miles Saturday. And between Friday night and Sunday, it was another 150 miles. Not much, but my rear still hurt! I have not been riding much this year. It felt great to be on the bike again, even if it was hotter than hades.

Risky Weather pattern

2008-08-20T13:28:00.001-05:00

The weather can be very dangerous in central ohio. You never know when the weatherman will make his mark on the news.

Kilo's Australian Adventure - Melbourne

2008-08-16T21:36:00.005-05:00

For the final location in Australia, I received local recommendations. The Royal Botanical Garden in Melbourne won out. It was Friday afternoon after I finished all my work and meetings in the office, and took a taxi back to the hotel. It was a cool day in the low 50's and had light rain. I took Kilo's final bit of ashes with me for a walk past Flinders Street Station and along the Yarra River.
It was quite a walk, with the cool and damp weather. There were runners and bicyclists out for their daily exercise. And more than a few rugby games as well. After walking past some other gardens, I finally found the entrance for the Royal Botanical Garden. Once you walked past the gates, it felt like a quiet refuge from the hustle of the city. I walked around the ponds, had an espresso, and finally found a nice quiet and beautiful location. I spread Kilo's ashes with some final well wishes.

Kilo's Australian adventure - Sydney

2008-08-09T22:19:00.003-05:00

This weekend, Kilo and I made the trip to Sydney Australia. We took a walk along the Circular Quay on Sunday morning. The day is beautiful, with the sun shining and a few billowy clouds as a backdrop. Far less somber than the Central Ohio location. So we stopped and watched a young street performer do her act. I knew Kilo would be smiling, and probably snickering, as she did her contortionist's positions.

We walked further down the pier where we had a great perspective of the Concert Hall of the Sydney Opera House. Such a beautify building, what a wonderful view. A sight that is equated to Australia, and to Sydney.

I found a picturesque location across the bay for Kilo, a place where he could easily reach the water. I looked around to ensure there were no police to be seen (I was warned by the receptionist at the hotel "it was illegal to spread ashes, so just don't get caught"), and scattered Kilo's ashes into the Pacific Ocean where he will be able to watch the comings and goings in one of the most scenic areas in the world. The first picture below is where I spread his ashes, over the edge where the man is standing. The second is a picture showing the outcropping of the location, and the Opera House.

One last trip for Kilo and I to make. At the end of the week, I travel to Melbourne. We will find one final location there for Kilo.

Susie, I am sure Kilo is smiling at all the places that he has gone over the last week. You and the brothers and sisters of VROC are doing a wonderful thing, fulfilling a man's last wish.

Kilo

2008-08-06T18:17:00.004-05:00

"In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return." - Genesis 3:19

I received some of Kilo's ashes today. My intent was to set up a ride, but frankly the gravity and onus overwhelmed me, and I just had to free some of his ashes tonight. My apologies to Kickstand for being unable to wait. I rode up to Delaware, walked to the top of the damn, said a little prayer for his peace and for those he left behind, including his wife, Babe-In-The-Wind, and 28,000 VROC brethren, and untold numbers of people he touched in his life.

With a smile, and half-a-tear, I let the wind take his ashes back to where they came. His soul, spirit, essence, or what-ever-you-may-believe is free from the bindings of this world. I pray he is watching and smiling as brothers and sisters are letting his ashes fly all over the world.

A couple of pics of his new Home in Ohio:

A clean bike and fridge

2008-08-03T20:59:00.004-05:00

The last time my bike got a wash - a REAL wash - was before the Spring Rally in Angola. There was a layer of dust, bug carcases, mud, and even some tar/rubber stuff stuck to my muffler. So today, I opted to take a few hours and strip the bike of all the leather, nascille, saddlebags, seats, etc and give it a good, deep wash from stem to stern.

Then after the wash, I pulled it back into the garage and gave it some wax for both the paint and the chrome. Not a perfect job, but it took over 3 hours of pleasurable, detailed, mind numbing, tedious effort that has resulted in a much better looking bike - and a better attitude.

What's with the fridge in the title of this entry? I also cleaned out all of the remaining Canadian beer ! ! ! Side effect of the near-90 degree temperatures. ;-)

Somber thoughts remain

2008-07-30T22:07:00.005-05:00

Kilo had a last request, to have his ashes spread wide and far. His wife wanted to do this, and reached out to the 27,000 members of VROC for help. Immediately, dozens and dozens of people lined up to help. All across the US and Canada, small portions of Kilo's ashes will be freed to the wind, water, and nature in general. But it is not stopping there. Small packets will be shipped around the world; Trinidad, Japan, Europe, New Zealand. Personally, I offered to spread some of his ashes in Ohio, and also in Australia when I travel there next week.

I am amazed at how quickly dozens and dozens of people stepped up to help Kilo's wife to fulfill his last wishes, surrounding the world. Some have set up a memorial ride to distribute the ashes, others are doing it quietly. A fund was set up to take donations to help out with the mailing and funeral costs.

And even more amazing - I have seen this happen over and over, when someone is in need, in pain, or just running into a rough patch. Most times, it is simple words of comfort and prayers. Sometimes it is volunteering of time or talent, and occasionally money.

Many times, these people have never met. They just know each other through the Internet. Myself, I have only met 30-40 out of the thousands. Next year, one of the largest rallies is being held in Kentucky and I have committed to attend with the hopes of meeting over 100 people I speak to over the net almost nightly.

So my thoughts have been somber as of late. Revisiting what is important to me, to my life. I took a short ride this evening to be alone with my thoughts. There are some back roads out of town that I take sometimes, going into Columbus. About half way is a statue, pretty much in the middle of nowhere. I stopped there tonight, sat for a little bit. The statue is in memory of the men lost during the bloodiest war America has ever seen - The Civil War. You can click on the images below and get a larger image.

So tonight, rambling thoughts as I sort through the pain and the joys of life. As always, making decisions that seem to be the right ones. A friend of mine was contemplating what success really meant. Inline with my thoughts over the last few days, I quoted my favorite Greek philosopher, Anonymous [grin]:

"You have achieved success if you have lived well, laughed often and loved much."

On the passing of Kilo and ChuckB

2008-07-28T19:06:00.004-05:00

I have been neglecting Kermit since Angola. A few minor rides, but nothing significant. I took a week's vacation last week, and met up with a few of the VROC members from Canada. I found out that two of our early members lost their lives in accidents, one of which was precipitated by a heart attack. There is a lot of somber talk, of memories, of services for the lost friends. We all take a chance when we ride, some more than others. We take chances when we get out of bed too. It is a sliding scale of grey.

A VROC member posted something that is worth sharing with all that read this blog...enjoy, have a tear, or a smile.

Death is nothing at all
I have only slipped away into the next room
I am I and you are you
Whatever we were to each other
That we are still
Call me by my old familiar name
Speak to me in the easy way you always used
Put no difference into your tone
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow
Laugh as we always laughed
At the little jokes we always enjoyed together
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was
Let it be spoken without effect
Without the ghost of a shadow in it
Life means all that it ever meant
It is the same as it ever was
There is absolute unbroken continuity
What is death but a negligible accident?
Why should I be out of mind
Because I am out of sight?
I am waiting for you for an interval
Somewhere very near
Just around the corner
All is well.
Nothing is past; nothing is lost
One brief moment and all will be as it was before
How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again!

Canon Henry Scott-Holland, 1847-1918, Canon of St Paul's Cathedral

2008 Angola Rally

2008-06-22T19:58:00.015-05:00

Lugnut and Barbara - what great hosts they are! Food, ice, booze, coffee, chairs, campfire, grassy area for tents...what more could you want?!? I spent about 500 miles on the bike, and had a great time getting there. I was a day late, but made it. People flowed in and out all day Friday and Saturday, and then all left Sunday morning. Met some new people, and hooked up with some old friends. This is what riding and rallies are all about for me!

I spoke with some of the local residence of Walden Woods who wanted to know what happened Friday night. They came over to the our gathering at around 10:30, but we had all gone to bed! :-)

Click on the pictures if you want to see a larger version!

The beer does amazing things to your vision...Ahhh...the colors...

And there were multiple kinds of animals there!

It was really hot riding back. I stopped in New Haven, outside of Fort Wayne. It was a nice park just across from a golf course, and I had it all to myself. I sat in the pavilion for 20 mins, drinking a bottle of water and had a cigar that I had been saving for just such an occasion.

I refuse to ride without my protective gear. It was so hot and humid that I pulled my t-shirt off and road with just my textile jacket. And for those who cringed, it is machine washable!

About an hour later, I made one more stop at a local dairy queen type place, and grabbed a large diet pepsi. Took my jacket off and put shirt back on and sat outside while I drank the soda and rehydrated. Met a truck driver on his way to South Dakota.

Back on the road with just the jacket on again, and about 17 miles from home I hit storms and even a bit of hail. If nothing else, it cooled things down!

All in all, it was a good ride and a rally.

IT's HERE!!!

2008-06-19T17:59:00.002-05:00

After packing, repacking, doing maintenance on the bike, adding new footpegs....yada yada yada... It is FINALLY TIME to hit the road. Sure, I had some last minute things to do this morning; some for work, some for family. And also the bike-needed to add air to tires, put on the electronics, check the air in the shocks, tighten the battery connection, add a couple tools to the saddlebag. Eventually got on the road...YEAH!!!

The highway opened up in front of my like embracing arms. The wind sung background to the country music in my helmet. The freedom swelled in my heart as the miles started ticking by. But then, about 1/3 of the way to the Fort, it occurred to me. I forgot my meds. I briefly entertained the idea of going without them...but it was a long time. So what would I be missing if I skipped them? - oh...blood pressure, diabetes...hmmmm, nope, not so good.

With a frustrating huff echoing in my helmet, I exited route 33, turned around and headed home. I put on nearly 100 miles in this little jaunt, but ended up where I started. Tomorrow, I start off early and don't stop except of a Gyro at King Gyro's in Fort Wayne, then on to the rally.

Second time's the charm, right?

The time is near

2008-06-17T20:11:00.005-05:00

The Kuryakyn footpegs came today. A pair that looks just like this. Got a fairly good deal on ebay store for $101 and free shipping. MSRP is $150 plus shipping. These pegs provide for a lot of adjustments and should make the longer rides even more comfortable.

So I took off the EMGO's that I bought back in early 2006 for something like $17. They have done a great job for me, and highly recommend them for anyone looking for starter pegs, or a cost effective solution. Anyway, put the new pegs on, adjusting them so I can stretch out in a couple different ways. Tomorrow, I will take Kermit on a short run to try them out and make some fine tuning. I will probably making changes all summer to get them "just right."

I will finish my packing for the rally tonight, getting all the last minute things together into a single bag or two, traveling as light as possible. Tomorrow night after making final adjustments on the highway pegs I will load the bike with gear and clothes.

Weather looks good for Thursday and Friday as I take some time to explore Ohio and Indiana, and then make my way to the rally. There is some chance of rain over the weekend. So I will need to pack a little more than normal in case of the uninvited thunderstorm breaks in.

I so need this break. I have a lot going on at work and in my personal life. It is going to be great to get away from the day-to-day grind and visit some friends I have not seen in a long time.

After the rally, I am going to have to figure out how to schedule a few long weekends and take my tent, a few clothes, and hit the road by myself to contemplate my navel and place in the universe.

Getting ready for Angola Rally

2008-06-11T20:57:00.002-05:00

I am getting more and more excited about the Angola rally in just over a week. I am taking a long weekend to take off Thursday, do some random riding around Indiana and Ohio, and end up at Rally Central on Friday. The extended forecast (which changes daily) looks pretty good going into the weekend.

I have nearly 10K miles on Kermit already. Hard to believe that I have spent that much time riding the highway. So there is some regular maintenance that I needed to do. But I think the bike is ready. I have changed the air filter to a K&N, cleaned the throttlebody of the little bit of carbon buildup from the high-octane fuel, adjusted the throttle speed, changed oil and filter and cleaned the oil screen. I have the backrest on the bike as well as the GPS. Things look good!

I am looking to add a couple of footpegs (upgrades from the existing), and adjust the handlebars, but those are optional things before I leave, and will likely have to wait.

Lake Erie Winery Run - Update

2008-06-02T18:10:00.003-05:00

Brad and April added a few more pics. Easy to tell who the cute one is in the family! ;0

Lake Erie Winery Run

2008-05-31T18:32:00.005-05:00

What a great run, and an opportunity to meet new friends and swap stories. But it was questionable whether or not it would even happen! At 4:00am, I was awaken by tornado warnings, and a tornado watch remained in effect long after we left. As Henry rode about 1 mile to my house, a cloudburst occurred. It lasted only a few minutes, still soaking him to the skin. Then after we left, about 6 miles down the road, his bike needed to have a part tighten. So we stop and he tightens it in just about 5 mins. But then, as I try to start my bike, I get nothing...nothing at all. So we took the side off my bike to check fuses, then the seats to check the battery. Luckily, after 15-30 mins, we narrowed it down to a loose battery connection. So we headed off and still made it to Bucyrus just a couple mins late.

In the picture below, we all gathered in Bucyrus and posed for this pic. From the left it is Henry (a friend of mine), April and Brad, Theresa and Jeff (friends of DavidRN), DavidRN and Maura. Remember to click on the picture for a larger version!

We headed to the wineries, but made a pit stop in Castalia. 30 years ago or so, there was a Road Side attraction called Blue Hole. It was billed as a bottomless pit fed oxygen-less water that gave an illusion of infinite depth and water clarity. Now, that water is the source for a trout farm run by the state. Dozens, if not hundreds of fish are in the creek and stack to have people feed them bread or popcorn.

After we hit the wineries, Jeff came up with the idea of stopping at Big Boppers for a hardy lunch. Here are all the bikes, lined up in front of the restaurant. You can find the establishment at 7581 E Harbor Rd, Lakeside Marblehead just outside of Port Clinton.

What great food – from breakfasts of sausage gravy & biscuits, to lunch of award winning chili ("Real Chili should never have beans in it") or a fried walleye sandwich. And with a bunch of new friends to share it, what could be better?

But like all good rides, there is a time to start the return route. With DavidRN and team living east, they opted take a more direct route home. But with all the chili and beans that he had to eat, poor Maura was going to have a challenging ride home. Not one to let an opportunity pass by, he also opted to light up a stogie to add a little more aroma for that trip home. And, if things worked out just right, there might be enough heat to spark a methane blast!

So April and Brad, Henry, and I headed down Rt 53. We fought wind gusts all the way home. Had to have been upwards of 35mph or more! Felt like it was going to rip the helmet off my head, and leather jacket off my body. On the way, we ran across these Prop planes that we were told flew in the Pacific theater and the European theater in WWII. You can be the judge of that, I just thought they were cool! And with Kermit (my bike) alongside, you can see the size of these giants.

Day in Findlay

2008-05-10T19:35:00.004-05:00

Took the afternoon off today, and went for my first "ride" of the year. Not the longest, but well over 100 miles anyway. Rode up to Findlay, and met a few friends at CoffeeAmici (http://www.coffeeamici.com/). It is a nice coffee house in downtown Findlay. It is very nice place, owners are bike owners. I get up there every chance I get.

I stopped over to a local restaurant. Got the worse beer, but the best quesadilla. It looked like a normal family restaurant. BUT I was the only guy there, and I saw one of the girls pull her top over her head showing just her bra! She was really cute too. Before she left, I ordered a beer for her and talked with her. She swore that it was an accident, but I am not sure - both she and the waitress were giggling about it!

After that, I had some free time, and rode over to a lake. Nice place to spend a few minutes walking around, thinking about things. I decided to lay down for a few minutes, just to close my eyes. Guess I fell asleep! It has been a tough week...

Rode back on a different road for about 1/3 of the way. It is amazing what you can find in rural Ohio. Anyway, got back home, and then took the kids out for some ice cream. Not a bad Saturday, if you ask me!!!

Lake Erie Run

2008-05-07T22:33:00.003-05:00

Here is what I am thinking of for a Lake Erie run.

Thinking of meeting up at the Delaware Reservoir Dam on Rte 23 just north of Delaware, then hitting Bucyrus for the Mural. A couple wineries on the near the lake, stop at the beach at Lake Erie, hit an Irish pub for lunch, and then back. Round trip, around 250 miles. Plenty of stops, mixed riding (some highway, some backroads). Plan for a full day.

Here is a map of my current thoughts on the ride (click on image for larger view):

Here is a closeup map of the lake area for the ride (click on image for larger view):

Dang, foiled again

2008-05-01T22:51:00.001-05:00

Planning for a great weekend ride....but thunderstorms are coming, cold temps. Just not what I want to ride in for the weekend. Arghhhhhh......

Artsy Ride

2008-04-27T18:09:00.002-05:00

I took a couple hours today and got onto Kermit for a ride. Up route 33 to Indian Lake, and took a ride around the park and the lake itself, out onto islands, on peninsulas, and just next to the water. It was a cool ride, but for me it was perfect. Took several pictures of Kermit next to the water. For something different, I am posting some negatives of the shots. Artsy, eh? grin...

Oh. and remember those deep scratches I talked about in my previous post? It was grime of some sort that cleaned right up with a little alcohol!

Who scratched my bike?

2008-04-25T20:51:00.002-05:00

Several months ago, I noticed a scratch on the fuel tank. I was upset that somebody scratched my beauty! Did it happen at a parking lot, did the kids do it? It is on the side of the tank where I could not have done it.

Then a couple weeks ago, I saw a huge (to me) gauge on the tank - a deeper scratch that went all the way to the metal. WHAT THE HECK! I started trying to figure out who was scratching my bike. A friend was over, and asked if it was possible that my buckle on my jacket did it? "Naw" I told him, "I don't ride bent over like that."

Then I went for a ride. I reached over for my helmet (I usually put it on the riding peg). I hesitated as I grabbed the helmet, with my belt buckle right where the scratch was. DANG! I have been a bad bad boy...I got some touch-up paint (base, color, clear coat) and will see what I can do to touch it up. Cannot be any worse than it is now!

Early Morning yearnings

2008-04-16T06:15:00.002-05:00

I am up early this morning, taking my son to school. The sun is shining, the talking heads on the TV are dwelling on the beautiful today, and I hear motorcycle after motorcycle leave for work. In talking with a friend, he is antsy to start is bike trip out west.

My Kermit sits in the garage, wanting to get out and run...maybe it is time for 1/2 day vacation. We shall see.

Kermit Key

2008-04-14T19:44:00.005-05:00

Just finished making my (first?) custom key for Kermit (the Nomad). Its a little frog with a key embedded. These are not the best pictures, but gives an idea. Maybe tomorrow, I will be able to take some better pics.

Ah...bike night...where are ya ? ! ?

So - do you think it goes with the License Plate? :-)

A Drifter for sale

2008-04-08T21:32:00.003-05:00

In running around NW Ohio, I ran across this 2002 Drifter for sale. This is not mine, nor do I even know who it belongs too. But it looked like a nice bike with only 2200 miles on it. Phone number and price in picture below

Not a good day

2008-04-07T00:35:00.002-05:00

While the weather was unbelievably great, it was not my time to ride. I struggled with my gear, and then struggled with the bike. Long story short, I pulled the bike back into the garage, got out of my gear, and went up North to do some fishing.

Tomorrow night, I will revisit the battery terminals and try to get everything ship shape for the next ride.

Sigh....All part of riding...

Easter Sunday

2008-03-24T22:16:00.004-05:00

It was high 30's and low 40's, nice and sunny with low breeze. It was GREAT to get out on the bike - Finally!!! Only rode for about 50 miles, but spent quite a bit of time to get some pictures of the bike - and of course, back home for Easter dinner.

Its going to be a great riding summer...

FINALLY

2008-03-16T19:36:00.002-05:00

Took the bike out for a quick run today. Spent most of it at a local parking lot getting reaquainted with quick avoidance turns, emergency braking, and all of the other defensive moves to minimize my risks out on the road. Then took a quick trip downtown, filled up the bike with gasoline, and rode back out of town.

Not a lot of time on the bike, but it got me out. It was just under 40 degrees...but sunny and nice.

Clocks forward, and a Sunny today

2008-03-09T15:59:00.003-05:00

If you looked at the sky, it would be difficult to believe that we were in blizzard conditions yesterday. Its sunny, light breeze, and temperatures hit 40 degrees (F). I got out by 11:00am and cleared the driveway. It was actually rather pleasant accept for the amount of snow on the ground and the piles of snow deposited by the snow ploys at the base of the driveway.

I got the driveway clear, and by mid afternoon the sun melted what little was left by the snowblower. I got the bike out onto the driveway and into the sun and cleaned up the garage a little. Took a picture (ok, several pictures) of my bike.

I got a vanity plate for my Nomad. "Kermt" of course!

Well, it hit :-(

2008-03-08T14:17:00.007-05:00

The predicted snowfall hit. A rare occurrence - both the blizzard AND the weathermen getting it right. We are in a snow emergency level 3 (one can get arrested if you are on the road), and Columbus and surrounding communities are virtually closed. On the news, they had a traffic camera on route 670 - a major road through downtown Columbus. Not a single vehicle, and completely snow covered. Route 70 (the major east/west route through central Ohio) is closed just west of Columbus. Airport has all flights canceled (there are 2 still on the board, but not for long!)

We have something around 14+" of snow, but that is not the big problem. What is making it bad is the high winds (sustained in the mid 20's MPH with strong gusts exceeding 35mph) that makes it impossible to keep any roads cleared. The visibility is near white-out. Drifts are upwards of three feet.

With the wind, we have areas that are basically blown clear. Check under the truck, and you can see the grass poking through the snow on the sidewalk close to the house. And then we have drifts that are 2 and 3 feet high! I have heard drifts of 6'. I have not blown the snow around at all - this is all nature.

Do you see the street out behind the truck? Neither do I! They had just plowed it an hour or so ago.

Check out across the street. The guy there got out his snowmobile and was running around the neighborhood starting around 11pm last night.

Took this shot late afternoon on Saturday. The snow had slowed down a little, and the dogs once again wanted to go out and frolic in the snow. The youngest one lasted about 5 minutes, but the Lab mix loved being out there. She is an indoors dog, but I have not seen any dog enjoy the cold and snow more than this one!

You may ask - what has this got to do with Motorcycle Riding? Well, I was hoping to get some saddle time, or at least be able to roll the bike back and get some good pictures. Well, that is not happening this weekend. But it is time to say a prayer of thanks for a nice, warm, dry home that still has power.

Will it ever end?

2008-03-07T22:27:00.010-05:00

I have been waiting and waiting for the weather to break. But all we have been getting is snow, ice, sleet, snow, ice, sleet... and over and over. It is going on a month since I have finished the mods, but have not been able to get the Nomad out of the garage due to the bad weather.

This weekend, just to add insult to injury, we are now looking at 14" of snow and blizzard conditions. It's March - and time to get in a few 50 degree days to run the bike a little!!!

By the way, I broke down today and bought an IPod Shuffle. I have loved my full size IPod over the last year, but it is so big and hard to protect in bad weather. The IPod shuffle is very small (1" x 1.5" x .5"), and has a clip to hook on your clothes. Its not fancy, and no video. But for riding, just turn it on and go!

2008 Winter Projects are completed

2008-02-14T21:17:00.007-05:00

Just finished the winter projects for this year. I installed some running lights on the back of the bike to increase visibility. Took two forms. There are some marker lights on the sides of the luggage rack. Beautiful, chrome LED running lights that are yellow/orange. In addition, I added some green accent lights (remember, the bike is green) that shine on the chrome of the backrest. In addition, I added some green LED accent lights in the engine compartment and also on the underside of the bike shining on the road (no, the bike is NOT leaking...that is supposed to be green light under the bike).

It's difficult to make out the bike, but here is a picture with just the accessory lights on. Its pitch dark, but you can make out the ground lights and chrome engine components. Remember to click on the picture for a full size image which will be a lot clearer.

In many states, it is illegal to run the accessory lights while driving, but are so cool for bike nights. They also do increase visibility at night. So I put the accessory LEDs on a switch so I could turn them on or off whenever I wanted. The switch is now in the switch pod.

I did a lot of small details on the handlebars. I replaced the cheapie "P" clamps I used last year, and got a couple Kuryakyn chrome P-Clamps for the volt meter and the switchpod. Provides a nice and solid mount. In addition, Chuckster cut me a polished aluminum plate for the switchpod, and it looks so much nicer than the piece I made last year. I also stripped out a lot of the wiring I did last year, and simplified it DRASTICALLY. I also wired the voltmeter (almost) directly to the battery. Where I had the wiring last year gave me false readings. And finally on the handlebar, I installed a RAM Mount for a Garmin 200W I got for Christmas.

The wire simplification was due in large part to an accessory block I installed in the compartment on the left hand side, just under the seat. The tools remain in the same place, but I put the accessory block, relay (power is only supplied when the bike is turned on), and the alarm system in this area. Not pictured, i also installed a battery charger plug on the bike so that I could put on the trickle charger on the battery, but not have to remove the seats.

I also installed a Custom World International Driver's backrest. For the longer rides, and riding two up, my back would start hurting. This should help that out a LOT. I also added Kewl Metal Helmet locks at the end of the Isogrips. That will allow me to hang my helmet directly from the handlebars instead of the stock locks which are right over the exhaust pipes. Kawasaki...what were you thinking!!!

And finally, I got a Vanity Plate for my bike. I spent a lot of time thinking about this, but finally came to the decision below. Kermit would be so proud!!!

So that's it for this winter. There will be little trinkets here and there, and some retro-fitting things that I found that I did wrong. But all-in-all, the 2006 Nomad is becoming more and more unique and functional each year! So when does this snow and ice melt, and the salt is washed away? I am getting stir crazy waiting...

Finished rewiring!

2008-02-12T22:20:00.004-05:00

No pictures, but I just finished rewiring accessories on the bike. Just finished adding an accessory wiring block which is "hot" only after I start the bike. I used the tail light to trigger the relay to power the block.

I also added marker lights in the back and green accent lights that shine on the chrome on the backseat rest - all intended to increase visibility at night. Those turn on when I start the engine.

I separated the airhorn from the driving lights. With the amount of current the airhorn uses, I wired it directly to the battery.

The driving lights are now wired to the accessory block with a switch in the switch pod. I thought about using a microswitch and hiding it somewhere, but I would rather feature it! The switch pod echoes the shape of the tach and voltmeter also on the handlebar. So it looks cool (in my opinion).

With the voltmeter on the handlebars, I also put it on the same direct circuit to the accessory block.

Then I added some accessory lights (green of course) to accent the chrome on the bike. I could have wired it into the accessory pannel, but instead decided to wire it into an "always on" circuit so that I could turn on the lights at bike nights or rallys without having to start the bike and have all the other lights going. This is also switched on the switch pod.

Finally, I also added a charge cord so that I could plug in the trickle charger without taking the seats off. There is a fuse on this cord too, but I forgot to add it in the diagram

Some Friends from VROC

2008-02-07T18:27:00.001-05:00

Ran across some new pictures of some of the VROC members. I don't know why these have not been posted before, but thought you might enjoy them.

There were a couple of Scotty:

Toa filling up Fart's cage:

Lugnut getting out of the swimming pond:

Roseman at a Rally:

Cranky after "the spill:

Interlochen group picture:

Hope you enjoyed!!!

Cold, Wet, Snowy and bad traffic...It must be Cleveland

2008-01-27T20:58:00.000-05:00

Went to the Cleveland Bike show for the 4th year in a row. The traffic was a good hour and a half or more to get in. I took a short cut, and saved a great deal of time, taking about one hour waiting in traffic to get into the parking lot

It was cold, wet/snowing as you can see by the picture of the Electronic Bulletin above and the picture of IX center to the right.

The show was good, but there seemed to be a lot fewer people there. I cannot explain the traffic backup except that their is simply not enough people taking the $8 to park at the center. That is where the traffic backup originated.

All the manufacturers were there, and I spent extra time at the Kawasaki booth checking out the new models, and the Honda site checking out the new Goldwings. Every year, I think about how nice it would be to have that 1800cc 6 cylinder engine, the big comfy seats, and all the gadgets. Then I go check them out, and they remind me more of a car then bike. I think I will pass again this year, and just enjoy the heck out of my Kermit (by the way, you did check out on the right hand side for the video of "It's not easy being green" by Leena Horne and Kermit, right?)

Checked out a lot of the accessories, but nothing really stood out. All pretty standard stuff, and mostly clothes Midway hawking. There were quite a few more three wheel vehicles on the floor this year. The lines between bikes and cars is blurring more each year! Here are some pics of a few that I thought were interesting. Remember, click on the pic to see a bigger version!

I guess, overall, it was still worth going. But next year, if I can make the Novi (Detroit) show, that's where I will head. A lot less traffic, less people, and almost the same number of vendors.

How Kermit got his name

2008-01-12T22:34:00.000-05:00

When I first saw my Nomad, I was not thrilled with the paint options. The all black was cool, but looked just like everyone else's bike. The other option was Green/Silver. The silver was cool...But GREEN? I almost did not buy one because of that.

It was not going to be easy having a Green bike. When Green was the only color it could be, it made me wonder. But then, why wonder? Its Green, and it will do fine. And then, the more I looked at it, the more I thought "It's beautiful". Others wouldn't...it wasn't easy being Green! But I think it is the color I want it to be.

Watch the video to the right, and it will all make sense.

Michigan Cycle Show

2008-01-03T23:34:00.000-05:00

Its that time of year; the snow is blowing, temperatures are hovering between 0 and 32, and spring seems so far away. It is the beginning of the dark countdown until I can once again start up Kermit and jump on the road in my leathers.

Thankfully, Cycle World holds its annual bike shows. I am off to the Detroit show tomorrow to look at some of the new bikes and accessories...and yes, to meet up with some VROC Friends for good food and drink.

Pictures when I return!

Last ride of the year

2007-12-31T23:36:00.000-05:00

The weather made it to mid 40's today, and the sun was shining. I hooked the battery back into Kermit, the Nomad, donned my riding gear. My daughter got her stuff on too, and jumped onto the back of the bike, and we went for a little ride. Not too far, but enough to remind me how long this winter is going to be.

After dropping her back off at home, I rode over to a friend's house that I had not seen in quite a while. We put some Stabil in his bike, and his sister's. But mostly BS'd for about an hour.

I am now sitting here, 20 minutes before the New Year rings in...It was a great year, and I am looking forward to even more time on the bike next year. And it starts this weekend with the Detroit Motorcycle show.

Snuck another ride in

2007-11-25T15:11:00.000-05:00

It was 42 degrees when I took off around 12:30. Had to get some sunglasses, so I hopped on the bike to get in another ride before the snow starts to fall and stick. It continued to warm up, and so I took a nice 40 mile jaunt and grabbed a double expresso.

I parked right on the main drag. I picked up my coffee and sat down at a counter near the large plate glass window to watch my bike. As each car passed, the brake lights would go on and the driver would gaze out at the bike.

Man, I am going to miss this!!!

Where did the summer go?

2007-11-24T16:57:00.000-05:00

It is 36 degrees centegrade outside, and the sun setting low on the horizon. Windchill at 55 mph, based on the new calculations is 19 degrees (used to be 3!). Its been way too long since Kermit (my Kawasaki Nomad) and I took a ride - over a month.

So I focused on completing a few chores; winterizing the lawnmower, reorganizing the garage so my wife can park inside, covered the camper snuggling in for the winter. And then, late in the afternoon, I bundled up and went for a ride.

Surprisingly, I was not cold. I image that the clothing was a major factor. But probably as likely is the enthusiasm that poured through by veins. I did not ride long, maybe 45 mins - an hour tops. But it was refreshing to my soul and attitude.

This winter is going to try my patience, being a long gap between between rides.

Lake Erie Run

2007-10-29T20:49:00.000-05:00

What a ride! It was just over freezing when I started out this morning. Buddy was sound asleep allnight. And when it was so cold outside, we talked it over and decided to wait until it was mid 30’s. Buddy went back to sleep, hogging the entire bed. By 10:15, he was STILL asleep. Finally got him out of bed, and we uncovered the bike, packed up all the clothes, etc.

It was cold…No, it was COLD! But I had purchased a pair of winter Olympia cycle gloves. They have gortex, and cover the sleeves of the heavy leather jacket. In addition, I now fit into my insulated heavy leather chaps (thank you, yes I HAVE lost weight). With all that, I was actually warm. So off I went to into the cold. I stopped for a quick bite to eat, coffee, and to catch up on my blackberry email from work. When on the road, I ONLY eat at the best places, and have the best to eat. This is way too familiar of a sight – fast food, hot coffee, and a map to circumvent the ever-present Ohio construction.

The first stop, after getting lost REPEATEDLY, was Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. The wind pushed me around on Route 2 until I ducked into the Refuge. A beautiful place right along Lake Erie. There are some wonderful hiking trails, but they will have to wait until next summer. Today is a day for riding, staying warm.

As I continue east along Lake Erie, I run into a landmark that anyone will recognize who has spent an afternoon walleye fishing in Lake Erie- The Bessey Cooling Tower. Those who live in the area often forget that we have a Nuclear Power Plant in our back yard. For those who travel east to Cedar Point, or across Ohio on the turnpike there is often amazed that here, right on the Lake in the Mid West is a Nuclear Power Plant. The cloud from the cooling tower can be seen for many many mile, especially during when there is a large steam release.

I continued east as the sun warmed thing up. I passed Port Clinton, and opted to go toward Catawba Island. I stopped at Mon Ami, a restaurant and historic winery.It is purported to be one of the oldest wineries in the region. I imagine that I present quite an image…6’4” in full biker gear, carrying buddy. But DJ was very helpful in picking out a few wines that meet my palette for a dry, white wine. And both she and Margaret were more than happy to greet Buddy with a couple bottles of bubbly at the tasting bar.

Back on the bike, I ride over Sandusky bay. Again, buffeted by the winds, but such a wonderful view of the water. In just a few months, ice will start forming in the area, and the ice fisherman will take over the area. But until then, it is still riding time. I continue on to Castalia. The first stop there is Firelands winery. The last time I was there, I bought a bottle of Ice Wine – a great treat of a very sweet wine made with grapes that remain on the vine until after the first frost. The sugars concentrate to form a very sweet desert wine.

I also picked up a bottle of Chianti. Deep taste, but still light enough for a heavy dinner. Jody was working the wine tasting. Buddy could not resist pushing his luck with this blond wine expert. Buddy was able to solicit a few giggles and a big smile from Jody as I took their picture.

On the way back to Columbus, Buddy opted to ride with the wine stash. I started out from the Firelands Winery with four bottles of wine. I am not sure if any of them are left! I have to admit, it was really my fault.

I decided to stop at a historic scene, at least for the many people that drove across Ohio from the early 1930’s to 1990 – Blue Hole. It was a tourist attraction which boasted a spring fed lake whose waters held no oxygen, and as a result no life. In PT Barnum style, the owner claimed that the Blue Hole was bottomless with all efforts to measure its depths failing.

Families would come to Blue Hole, look deep into the pond, and then picnic along side the oxygenated creek that held fingerling trout darting amongst the vegetation.

But time progressed, and tourists were more interested in the high-energy, heart throbbing excitement of Cedar Point, just down the road. Faced with low visits, and increased costs to meet new government regulations, the owner decided to close the doors.

Blue Hole is now a Ohio Fish Hatchery. Only open during weekdays, it is difficult to visit. However, it is still worth the effort. The quiet hush of babbling brooks, fish breaking the surface, and large grassy areas prime for a blanket and picnic are still there- maybe even better than before. There are hundreds, if not thousands of fish ranging in size from fingerling (an inch or two in length) to lunkers. And the former star of the area remains- Blue Hole. It shows it age, but remains as mystic as it was in my youth.

As I ride the bike back past all the canals, I could still feel the emotion, the excitement, and the near reverence of that quiet area. Blue Hole has not disappeared, but has retired to a serene life that can be still shared with a little dedication.

I left Castalia with a little tear in my eye. I stopped, visited my mother, and then rode on home to the Columbus area. It was growing dark, and the cold was reclaiming its hold on all. By the time I got home, temperatures were down to 40’s.

Planning next ride

2007-10-26T23:41:00.001-05:00

Taking Monday off work for what may be one of the few last rides of the season. I hope to get in another couple weekends, but we are closing in on November... Anyway, the plan is for Sunday to go meet up with some friends to watch the Brownie football game. Depending on how long the game goes, and how much beer I drink I will get a room in Findlay or Toledo.

Then on Monday morning, I will take off for a run around Lake Erie. checking out the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, Port Clinton, Firelands Winery, the former Blue Hole. After visiting family in Norwalk, grab an espresso at Sheri's Coffeehouse, take some pictures of the Murals in Bucyrus, maybe a world famous Bologna Sandwich in Waldo, and eventually make my way back home to a soft recliner.

Anyway, that is the Plan! Lets see what REALLY happens! Probably a hangover on Monday, and just go home ---- :-)

Just under 500 miles

2007-10-14T18:53:00.000-05:00

This weekend was a 500 mile ride. Thursday evening, I packed the bike. I made sure I carried plenty of layers as the weather was supposed to range from low 40’s to low 70’s. And given the length of the ride, I wanted to make sure I had my GPS and Radar detector, tools, and all the other things you need to take “just in case.” The bike is here on the side of the road, ready to go!

Friday evening was cold, crisp and night fell too quickly. I had already made arrangements to be in Fort Wayne, including getting a Hilton Room right downtown for $45 (typical room price $109!). I rode along the Maumee river on River Road, through Waterville.

It never fails to amaze me how friendly people are in the mid-west. Whether I was resting at a gas station, truck stop, restaurant, or Hilton, people would come up and talk about their desire to be on a bike, to run away on the road for a few days, or feel somehow compelled to share part of their lives.

On the way back on Sunday, Grand Rapids (Ohio) was having their Applebutter Festival. Hundreds of people from all directions enjoying the arts, crafts, and most of all apple-based foods. http://www.applebutterfest.org/applebutter-festival.htm

On the way to Fort Wayne, I stopped in Napoleon to put on a heavy shirt under the leather jacket, rest my weary rear end, and drink a bottle of water. Standing at the counter, paying for my water, a voice behind me said “Are you going to be winning all the money at this rally too?” I turned around, and it was one of the guys from the September West Unity rally. What a great surprise! The only time I met this guy was at that run, and ½ month later, he still picked me out of a crowd. He proceeded to tell me about the rally they were holding across the road at the Harley Davidson's dealership, a Toys for Tots Ride. But not for me this weekend - I had reservations.

I spent time riding around Fort Wayne, visiting some of the “old areas” from when I used to live there. Spent a lot of time riding in the outskirts as well as in the city. Heading out on Route 30, I stopped on a side road to take in the view, remember the people I knew there, and to check my blackberry. The family is always just a call away, and unfortunately work is too. This time, I spoke with my daughter, wanting to go clothes shopping with her mom. Of course, she needs some new clothes!

Hilger’s was having a huge – no, HUGE Halloween activity. They had a sun flower maze, story telling giant, rides for the little ones, and some fantastic hay bale statues. And pumpkins and more pumpkins. And of course, their typical great farm foods and pumpkins of every type and size. And did I mention the pumpkins?

For meals, there is nothing better than The Rib Room on State. The ribs were better than I remembered, the beer cold, and the old style club restaurant from the Rat Pack days. A true meat and taters kind of place – Ribs or Steak, baked potato, salad optional, no veggies. Listening to music like Amore, How Much is that Doggy in the Window, I Left My Heart In San Francisco, Goody Goody, etc. You could almost imagine Frank Sinatra sitting in the dining room eating one of their T-Bones.

On Sunday, before I start the ride back, I just had to have lunch at King Gyros. If you are every in Fort Wayne, stop and have one of the best, original Gyros. But beware, the portions are huge, and the flavors strong. You wont need to eat again for days!

I made it home Sunday night before the sun set. My rear end was sore, but I felt revitatilzed by the weekend of good people, good places, fresh air, and time to be alone to think and contemplate my navel.

Run away...Run away...

2007-10-10T21:23:00.000-05:00

Time to take a ride and forget all about the pressures of the job and home. Who said escapism is a bad thing? I have decided to take a ride in Northern Indiana and Ohio, and stay in Fort Wayne for the weekend. The plan is taking 1/2 day vacation on Friday (already scheduled), ride all day Saturday, and return on Sunday.

The goal is to ride amongst the changing colors of all the trees. The best rides are those where the leaves are just turning, but are not covering the road making it slippery. So I have a hotel in Fort Wayne expecting me, and a rough route to follow the Fall Foliage map.

But like any ride, there always seems to be a challenge. Last ride, it was temperatures moving toward 90 degrees or more. This time, just a few days later, it is the cold! Temperatures will drop near freezing at night, and only reach the low 60's during the days.

Normally, I would consider this perfect riding weather, but I am not sure the body has had time to acclimate yet. So I will be wearing the heavy leather jacket, chaps and of course the full face helmet, boots and gloves. Under the gear will be heavy shirts, jeans, neck protection. On the bike, I have larger lowers and engine guard chaps to deflect the bone-numbing windchill.

Hang in there. I will be back on Sunday and should have a couple pictures of blazing color and people I meet along the way.

Short ride before the heat hit

2007-10-07T11:45:00.000-05:00

I got up early enough to beat the heat, taking off in high 60's. By noon when I returned, it was already in the 80's. With average high supposed to be around 70 degrees, it looks like this will be another year where we will go from Summer to Winter with no fall.

I decided to run down to PepBoys to pick up a couple common items that most larger autoparts would have; Fuseblock, Auto alarm, and dielectric grease (stuff that keeps water out of electric connections). Zero for three!!! I could not believe it. But I did find a couple small relays that will fit on the bike for future wiring projects.

Decided to take a more scenic route back, running old route 40. All along the road you could see signs of a once major roadway that has fell victem to the Mega Highway of Route 70. I went to take a few pics, but found that I had taken out my card out of the camera. On the way, I also stopped at Darby Creek Park, a beautiful little park out in the middle of nowhere. But again, no pics.

It was good to get out, but the temps are rising and the Brownies are on the tube, so I am glad to be back.

West Unity American Legion Poker Run

2007-09-30T18:58:00.000-05:00

I decided to participate in a Poker Run in west Unity, with proceeds going to "Operation Support our Troops". Decided to ride up to Napolean Ohio on Friday night after work, and got a room at the Best Western just off Route 6. Beautiful hotel with pool and hot tub, sharing a parking lot with a TA (truck stop).

Saturday morning, I got to the American Legion about 1/2 hour early. There were 50 or more bikes at the Poker Run. Mostly Harleys, but a few Goldwings and at least one Nomad (mine!). Everyone was standing around, looking at the bikes. After asking where to register, I went inside, stood in line, paid my bucks for the charity, and then went back outside.

My favorite bike, was a well worn, Krylon painted Harley. Owner has a GREAT sense of humor that comes through in his bike and in this pic below.

On the Poker Run itself, we all were pretty much free to run the course at our own pace, and stop whereever we wanted. I stopped for a sandwich at a Subway in Napolean near the hotel I was staying. There was a Harley Stealership there. Decided to stop in just to see what they had. What a great find! About 25% of their shop was a street mock up, housing antiques from Harley Davidson. Cool!! Here is a picture.

Finally got back to the Legion at about 3pm. Asked Alma to sew a few patches for me on my jacket. We have tried to meet for all summer, and it was great finally meeting Alma and hubby Wendell. Everyone congregated in the Legion hall for pop and food after the run, and had the poker drawings and various raffles. What a great time it was! They raised almost $2,000 for "Operation Support our Troops". What a wonderful way to mix a great day for a bike ride with support for a great Charity.

Sunday, I decided to head out to Hudson Leathers, pick up some pin holders, and socialize with other riders who decided to go there as well. On the way home, after a 100 miles or so, I stopped at a rural truckstop for a drink of water and a stretch.

But all good things must come to an end. 475 miles in two days. Home safe and sound. Kids loved their gifts from the Harley store. Another great weekend. I truly am blessed. Here is a map of all the places I ran around.

On the run up...

2007-09-28T21:11:00.000-05:00

On my way to the Poker Run, I ran across the "Green Mountain Energy Windfarm" just south of Bowling Green, Ohio. How cool is this! From the website:

"Nov. 2003 — The AMP-Ohio/Green Mountain Energy Wind Farm — Bowling Green, Ohio. The first utility-scale wind farm in the state of Ohio, this wind farm originally consisted of two 1.8 MW wind turbines, the largest east of the Rockies. The capacity was doubled in 2004 when two more turbines were added. "

???Who knew???

http://www.greenmountainenergy.com/