BMW has issued a recall of certain 2008 F650GS motorcycles.
Due to production and assembly tolerances, the length of one or more of the front brake disc fasteners may be insufficient. If the length of a fastener was insufficient, this could result in the fastener not being tightened according to specifications. If this happened, the fastener could work loose from its threads. In some cases involving multiple fasteners, the brake disc could loosen, increasing the risk of a crash.
373 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
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Wednesday, December 31, 2008
BMW Recalls 2008 F650GS and F800GS Motorcycles for Chain Sprocket Problem
BMW has issued a recall of certain 2008 F650GS and F800GS motorcycles.
The tightening of the chain sprocket fasteners may have resulted in various levels of torque being applied. It is possible for the fasteners to work loose from the sprocket, increasing the risk of a crash.
509 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
The tightening of the chain sprocket fasteners may have resulted in various levels of torque being applied. It is possible for the fasteners to work loose from the sprocket, increasing the risk of a crash.
509 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Triumph Recalls 2008 Rocket III Touring Motorcycle for Pannier Rail Weld Defect
Triumph has issued a recall of certain 2008 Rocket III Touring motorcycles.
There could be a missing weld on the back of the pannier rail. The pannier rail may, after time, be weakened leading to a full fracture of the rail and possible loss of pannier and rail from the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.
8 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
There could be a missing weld on the back of the pannier rail. The pannier rail may, after time, be weakened leading to a full fracture of the rail and possible loss of pannier and rail from the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.
8 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Top 10 Motorcycle Pictures of the Year 2008 from Motorcycle Views
The top ten motorcycle pictures were picked from pictures submitted to Motorcycle Views in 2008. The pictures are not ordered. They include three pictures of women on motorcycles, four pictures of men on motorcycles, and three pictures of motorcycles only.The pictures were chosen for a variety of reasons. I looked at each picture, read each description, and picked those pictures that held my interest.
Check out the Top 10 Pictures for 2008.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Harley-Davidson Guarantees Sportster Trade-in Value
Even in these tough economic times, Harley-Davidson has found a way to lure more customers into their showroom: Allow trade-ins at the original sale price.
Read the complete story.
Harley has a plan to allow their customers who have already purchased a recent Sportster to trade it in on a larger model but essentially cancel the depreciation on the Sportster. Here's an excerpt from an article by Rick Barrett of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
"Harley-Davidson Inc. (HOG) has announced a new motorcycle purchase program that guarantees the trade-in value of a Sportster when traded for one of the company's more expensive bikes.
Harley riders who either buy a new Sportster or trade in their recently purchased Sportster between Dec. 26 and March 31 will get the bike's original manufacturer's suggested retail price when they trade up to one of Harley's Big Twin or VRSC motorcycles." -- Rick Barrett, Milwaukee, Wisconsin Journal Sentinel
Read the complete story.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Harley-Davidson Recalls 2009 FXD, FXDB, FXDC, FXDF, and FXDL Motorcycles for Jiffy Stand Defect
Harley-Davidson has issued a recall of certain 2009 FXD, FXDB, FXDC, FXDF, and FXDL motorcycles.
The jiffy stand spring anchor may have been built with a defective weld that may allow the jiffy stand assembly to not retract as intended. This condition could lead to a crash which could cause injury or death to the rider.
3285 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
The jiffy stand spring anchor may have been built with a defective weld that may allow the jiffy stand assembly to not retract as intended. This condition could lead to a crash which could cause injury or death to the rider.
3285 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
GIRDER 2009
Here is the design, all the parts have been sent to the metal shop to be cut, and the trees are looking to be machined on a CNC machine! Soon it will be set in a JIG and welded up!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
KZ200 In the Movie
Untuk KZ200 Enthusiast,,,,,
Hallo All Kz200 Enthusiast...Here I have Unique picture about kz200, If you still remember at 80's we've got TV movie with CHIPs Title yes about the California Highway Patrols...here are the picture Character of the CHIPs TV movie
Yes You will remember that character..Eric Estrada & Larry Wilcox
And then I have picture of kz200 at this movie you can see below
Yesss...you see KZ200 at CHIPs television movie
for more complete image at that story CHIPs movie you can CLICK HERE
For Kawasaki KZ using the movie you can see here ..please CLICK
In Indonesia Kz200 Binter Merzy used at film WARKOP at the same title CHIPs (Cara Hebat Ikut Penanggulangan masalah Sosial) hehhehehe but unfortunelly I try to have the picture not to be done
Hallo All Kz200 Enthusiast...Here I have Unique picture about kz200, If you still remember at 80's we've got TV movie with CHIPs Title yes about the California Highway Patrols...here are the picture Character of the CHIPs TV movie
Yes You will remember that character..Eric Estrada & Larry Wilcox
And then I have picture of kz200 at this movie you can see below
Yesss...you see KZ200 at CHIPs television movie
for more complete image at that story CHIPs movie you can CLICK HERE
For Kawasaki KZ using the movie you can see here ..please CLICK
In Indonesia Kz200 Binter Merzy used at film WARKOP at the same title CHIPs (Cara Hebat Ikut Penanggulangan masalah Sosial) hehhehehe but unfortunelly I try to have the picture not to be done
Semoga Menyenangkan....................
Monday, December 15, 2008
"SWING ARM"
Because Cody converted his bike from dual rear shocks - to mono shock, the swing arm had to be reinforced. He settled on his design, cut and welded some 1" x .120 cromoly tubing and got this finished product.
Next step, Design and fabricate the seat mount which will secure the top of the new mono shock.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Ducati Recalls 2007-2008 1098 Models and 2008-2009 848 and 1098R Models for Charging System Problem
Ducati has issued a recall of certain 2007-2008 1098, 1098 Tricolore, and 1098R motorcycle models and 2008-2009 848 and 1098R motorcycle models.
The motorcycle charging system may be adversely affected by engine heat and stop operating. This results in damage to the voltage regulator and ensuing battery discharge.
7130 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
The motorcycle charging system may be adversely affected by engine heat and stop operating. This results in damage to the voltage regulator and ensuing battery discharge.
7130 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Will Shiftless Motorcycles Become Mainstream?
An article in the New York Times by Stuart F. Brown examines why shiftless motorcycles may bring new life to motorcycling. Consider the fact that many potential riders have never even driven a car with a stick shift. Riding a motorcycle without an automatic transmission becomes a daunting task. Here's an excerpt from the article:
Read the full story for all the details.
"CAR sales, already in a deep funk, would probably be slower yet if automakers decided to offer no alternative to manual transmissions. Makers of street motorcycles have largely painted themselves into that corner. And with the effects of stalled credit markets flattening out a 14-year streak of steady growth — despite the allure of good gas mileage in a wobbly economy — it’s no surprise that manufacturers are mounting an effort to introduce more rider-friendly bikes." -- Stuart F. Brown
Read the full story for all the details.
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Mel and Comanche
Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery. See Mel on her 2004 Honda VTX1800. Also see Comanche with his 2008 Suzuki Boulevard C50T. Note the artistic treatment in this picture. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Kawasaki Issues Recall of 2008 ZG1400 Models for Rear Brake Problem
Kawasaki has issued a recall of certain 2008 ZG1400A8F/A8FL and ZG1400B8F/B8FL motorcycles.
Trapped road debris may interfere with free movement of the rear brake pedal, preventing full release of the rear brake which can lead to overheating damage and possible brake failure.
4628 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Trapped road debris may interfere with free movement of the rear brake pedal, preventing full release of the rear brake which can lead to overheating damage and possible brake failure.
4628 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Harley-Davidson Issues Recall of 2009 FXD Motorcycles for Fuel Leak Possibility
Harley-Davidson has issued a recall of certain 2009 FXDB, FXDC, FXDF, and FXDL motorcycles.
These motorcycles have a fuel tank vent tube assembly, part no. 27389-04A, which may have been produced with a defective ultrasonic weld on the anti-slosh valve. If the valve separates and the bike is tipped over, it may leak fuel. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.
349 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
These motorcycles have a fuel tank vent tube assembly, part no. 27389-04A, which may have been produced with a defective ultrasonic weld on the anti-slosh valve. If the valve separates and the bike is tipped over, it may leak fuel. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.
349 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Triumph Recalls 2008-2009 Thruxton for Brake Caliper Defect
Triumph has issued a recall of certain 2008-2009 Thruxton motorcycles.
The installed front brake caliper bracket bolts may be too short, reducing thread engagement of the bolts into the brake caliper bracket.
87 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
The installed front brake caliper bracket bolts may be too short, reducing thread engagement of the bolts into the brake caliper bracket.
87 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
12/03/08 Cody found a portable band saw!
So over Thanksgiving break "Cody Man" works diligently to move the pistons, clean his heads and strip alittle more un-needed parts from his soon to be Street fighter. Evidently he stumbled across a portable band saw hiding out in one of my shop cabinets........
Low and behold he chops away!!
This weekend will be a work weekend for him. Parts need to be purchased!
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Ackme
Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.See Ackme with his 2005 Triumph Tiger. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
11/26/08 Chop chop choppin....
He wasted no time getting dirty. He used to be a hell-u-va shop rat! He started the basic removal of all that is crap. Some will make it to Ebay, some to the trash can, some perhaps to re-fabrication. He is currently looking for a 650cc top end and possibly a Turbo kit.The carbs have been stripped and cleaned and will will go back together when he receives his gasket/rebuild kit. He is going to clean the cylinders, charge the battery and try to turn it over this weekend.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Polar Bear Grand Tour - Port Jervis, NY Ride
Last weekend, the Polar Bear Grand Tour ride was to Port Jervis, NY. I was feeling a little under the weather so I opted to take the car instead. After this ride I drove to a special Thanksgiving party held by my GWRRA NJ-F (F-Troop) chapter at Old Man Rafferty's in Hillsborough, NJ.I encountered few bikes on the road to Port Jervis as I passed through three states (NJ, PA, and NY) to get there. However, when I arrived, the parking lot was filled with bikes whose riders were waiting for the flight leaders to show up with the sign-in books.
Usually, I'm riding Jane's white trike in memory of her but the trike was in the shop getting two new U-joints installed. I plan to have it on the road for the run to Hopewell, NJ on November 23rd.
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Herb
Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.See Herb with his 1997 Honda Gold Wing SE. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
UNDANGAN DARI KZ EVOLUTION MC
Dear Brother Binter Merzy di Indonesia,
ini ada Undangan dari KZ evolution MC Cirebon mereka ngundang para enthusiast Binter Merzy seluruh Indonesia bisa gabung semua pada acara tersebut.
Acara ini akan dilaksanakan pada tanggal tanggal 6-7 Desember 2008 di area pantai Tirtamaya Indramayu. Indonesia
Ok brother Binter Merzy Semua di tunggu di acara tersebut
Keep On Rolling with your KZ200 Binter Merzy
ini ada Undangan dari KZ evolution MC Cirebon mereka ngundang para enthusiast Binter Merzy seluruh Indonesia bisa gabung semua pada acara tersebut.
Acara ini akan dilaksanakan pada tanggal tanggal 6-7 Desember 2008 di area pantai Tirtamaya Indramayu. Indonesia
Ok brother Binter Merzy Semua di tunggu di acara tersebut
Keep On Rolling with your KZ200 Binter Merzy
INFO INI TERUSAN DARI FOKZ200.COM
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Doug
Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.See Doug with his 2007 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
2009 Motorcycles
I've just updated my Motorcycle Makes and Models feature to include the major 2009 motorcycle models. Take a look.
Polar Bear Grand Tour - Old Bridge Ride
I've been a little behind in posting Polar Bear Grand Tour rides.The first was to Cape May, NJ on October 26. The members of GWRRA Chapter NJ-F (F-Troop) accompanied me and waited while I took pictures.
The second ride was to Lewes, DE on November 2. This was a 360 mile roundtrip for me. I took six videos in addition to the usual pictures.
Last weekend, the ride was to Old Bridge, NJ, a staggering 26 mile roundtrip for me. I decided to stay for the complete sign-in from 11:30 to 1:30. I took four videos.
These Polar Bear runs will be helping me greatly to get through this winter season without Janie. She was always with me on these runs. Back in 1992 when I first decided to join the Polar Bears, I really didn't think she'd be interested in riding a motorcycle in freezing weather. But as soon as I brought up the idea, she said, "I want to do that too!" Thus began 16 years of winter riding, meeting hundreds of new friends and encouraging others to join the ranks of the Polar Bears.
I have dedicated this season to Janie. I'll be riding her white trike and displaying information about her Jane Ann Kern Memorial Web site where her life is discussed and her charities listed along with donation links.
God Speed Jane Ann. She loved polar bears, in general, and the Polar Bear Grand Tour, in particular. I hope you have some time now in your new celestial position to watch out for all of us and help us to stay safe.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
History Binter Merzy In Indonesia
In Indonesia, Binter is the local brands from the Kawasaki motorcycle in Indonesia. Binter is the abbreviation of the name of Bright Star, which is the name of the company is a distributor motorcycle. This brand last used in 1983 when Kawasaki close their business in Indonesia.Kawasaki motorcycles in the day and then reopen the business in Indonesia but no longer use the brand "Binter"
In Indonesia, the motor of Cruiser Style more familiarly known as Binter Merzy or Binter.Dengan Kawasaki 200 cc single-cylinder,
is considered one of the motorcycle engine capacity of the largest ever produced in Indonesia in early 1980.
At the time the Kawasaki Motors had planned to launch a new model will increase capacity by 250 cc engine.However, because the Indonesian government regulations at that time rejected it in the rules Because of the time limit the maximum engine capacity is 200 cc motorcycles to the public.
Binter Merzy / KZ200 is a middle-class motorcycle engine with 200 cc single-cylinder. This motorcycle is a motorcycle largest official mass production of engine capacity in Indonesia to at Thunder Suzuki 250cc was launched in Indonesia.
In 1983, motorcycle adopted this system CDI and production stopped in 1984. This initial production specifications called Merzy CDI.
In 1984, During production, there are 1 changes in the model from the end of the predecessor model to be more sporty or what's called merzy new tank or Merzy Cobra.
This Motorcycle has become the favorite to become a modified form of a motorcycle Harley Davidson chopper style, and until now there are many operation.
Binter products are:
1. Binter Joy (woman motorcycle , in the brand "Joy" is still used by Kawasaki Indonesia, through the motor Blitz Joy 125)
2. Binter AR125 (motorcycle sport touring, tercanggih in class at the time, complemented monoshock and the radiator)
3. Binter Merzy KZ200 (motorcycle middle-class, 200 cc single bersilinder, motorcycle production capacity of the largest bulk official in Indonesia until the engine Suzuki 250cc Thunder was launched. Motor became the favorite to become a modified form of a motorcycle Harley Davidson chopper style, and until now there are many operation )
4.Binter GTO (2 not a motorcycle, with fellow Suzuki GP100 and Yamaha RX100)
In Indonesia, the motor of Cruiser Style more familiarly known as Binter Merzy or Binter.Dengan Kawasaki 200 cc single-cylinder,
is considered one of the motorcycle engine capacity of the largest ever produced in Indonesia in early 1980.
At the time the Kawasaki Motors had planned to launch a new model will increase capacity by 250 cc engine.However, because the Indonesian government regulations at that time rejected it in the rules Because of the time limit the maximum engine capacity is 200 cc motorcycles to the public.
Binter Merzy / KZ200 is a middle-class motorcycle engine with 200 cc single-cylinder. This motorcycle is a motorcycle largest official mass production of engine capacity in Indonesia to at Thunder Suzuki 250cc was launched in Indonesia.
In 1983, motorcycle adopted this system CDI and production stopped in 1984. This initial production specifications called Merzy CDI.
In 1984, During production, there are 1 changes in the model from the end of the predecessor model to be more sporty or what's called merzy new tank or Merzy Cobra.
This Motorcycle has become the favorite to become a modified form of a motorcycle Harley Davidson chopper style, and until now there are many operation.
Binter products are:
1. Binter Joy (woman motorcycle , in the brand "Joy" is still used by Kawasaki Indonesia, through the motor Blitz Joy 125)
2. Binter AR125 (motorcycle sport touring, tercanggih in class at the time, complemented monoshock and the radiator)
3. Binter Merzy KZ200 (motorcycle middle-class, 200 cc single bersilinder, motorcycle production capacity of the largest bulk official in Indonesia until the engine Suzuki 250cc Thunder was launched. Motor became the favorite to become a modified form of a motorcycle Harley Davidson chopper style, and until now there are many operation )
4.Binter GTO (2 not a motorcycle, with fellow Suzuki GP100 and Yamaha RX100)
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Saturday, November 8, 2008
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Ed
Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.
See Ed with his 2003 Honda Gold Wing GL1800. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - Jonquiers
Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.See Jonquiers on his 2007 Yamaha YBR125. For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
karburator smash
remer karburator
remer karburator standart 17 mm menjadi 20 mm lumayan mendongkrak tenaga motor standart......
karburator smash
remer karburator
remer karburator standart 17 mm menjadi 20 mm lumayan mendongkrak tenaga motor standart......Motorcycle Pictures of the Week - ThFireman's Wife and Keithva99
Here are my Pictures of the Week as displayed on the Motorcycle Views Website. These are taken from the Moto Pic Gallery.See ThFireman's Wife with her 1976 Honda CB750F Super Sport. Also see Keithva99 on his 2000 Kawasaki "Indian Drifter." For details, see Motorcycle Pictures of the Week.
If you'd like to see your bike as Picture of the Week, submit a picture of you and your bike along with a description of the bike.
BMW Recalls 2005-2006 HP2 Enduro Motorcycles for Paralever Problem
BMW has issued a recall of certain 2005-2006 HP2 Enduro motorcycles.
The front threaded fastener of the Paralever link may not have been tightened to correct specifications. If the fastener was not tightened according to specifications, it could loosen. Over time, it is possible for the fastener to separate from its housing. If this were to occur, then the final drive of the motorcycle would not be properly supported.
365 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
The front threaded fastener of the Paralever link may not have been tightened to correct specifications. If the fastener was not tightened according to specifications, it could loosen. Over time, it is possible for the fastener to separate from its housing. If this were to occur, then the final drive of the motorcycle would not be properly supported.
365 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Ducati Recalls 2008 Desmosedici RR Motorcycles for Fuel Tank Drain Hose Defect
Ducati has issued a recall of certain 2008 Desmosedici RR motorcycles.
The fuel tank drain and breather hose clamps may be installed incorrectly. This nonconformity may cause the fuel lines to weaken and break. This can result in damage to the motorcycle and a potential hazard to the rider.
289 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
The fuel tank drain and breather hose clamps may be installed incorrectly. This nonconformity may cause the fuel lines to weaken and break. This can result in damage to the motorcycle and a potential hazard to the rider.
289 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Buell Recalls 2009 1125CR and 2008 1125R Motorcycles for Cam Chain Problem
Buell has issued a recall of certain 2009 1125CR and 2008 1125R motorcycles.
These motorcycles can experience a premature failure of the rear cylinder cam chain tension guide (part number F0020.1AM). This can cause plastic debris to block the oil pump screen, possibly leading to oil starvation and engine seizure.
140 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
These motorcycles can experience a premature failure of the rear cylinder cam chain tension guide (part number F0020.1AM). This can cause plastic debris to block the oil pump screen, possibly leading to oil starvation and engine seizure.
140 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Buell Issues Recall for Windshield Problem on XB12XT and XB12XP Motorcycles
Buell has issued a recall of certain 2008-2009 XB12XT and 2009 XB12XP motorcycles.
The windshields may become dislodged and allow the windshield to either strike or distract the rider while the vehicle is being ridden at a high speed. This could result in a crash, which could cause injury or death to the rider.
624 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
The windshields may become dislodged and allow the windshield to either strike or distract the rider while the vehicle is being ridden at a high speed. This could result in a crash, which could cause injury or death to the rider.
624 units are affected.
Check out my Motorcycle Recalls feature for more details.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Habitat for Humanity Ride - I Ride for Jane
Since the death of my wife, Jane, just 49 days ago, I've received a "circle the wagons" type of protection that never seems to leave me. I receive telephone calls almost every evening from my three grown children wanting to know how I am, what has happened that day, and if there's anything they can do for me. Well, my family has tried to stay close in the past but this new communication blitz is different. I guess it is expected when a tragedy occurs that affects all members of the family equally. Before, telephone calls from the kids were normally short calls taken after the kids had already talked to their mother and just wanted to ask me for some kind of advice that only a dad can give. Now, the calls are very personal lasting from 20-60 minutes with all subjects fair game. In a way, this is kinda nice.
In addition, the motorcycle community has been providing me with a zone of security when I ride. For example, the members of my Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) chapter often go on dinner runs. They try their best to make sure that I'm getting out of the house on a regular basis and getting a decent meal so I get calls to remind me that an event is coming up. Such was the case when I got called to go to Big Ed's BBQ on October 2, 2008. Mike calls and says that they will be over to pick me up. That means that at least two motorcycle riders will show up in my driveway at an appointed time. I pull my trike out and fall in behind the lead rider while the second rider falls in behind me. I am now in the protected position. All moves in traffic are communicated over the CB radios we have on all the bikes. Lane changes are announced as the rider in back seizes the lane first and then notifies me and the lead rider to move over. We move as a unit with military precision. This is a very neat way to travel.
We had a great time at Big Ed's and on the way back to my house -- again in the protected mode -- Mike says over the CB, "You know, we'd really like to see you come out this weekend for the Habitat for Humanity Ride."
I knew about the ride. It was to be an escorted ride of up to 1000 motorcycles. Each rider had to register and make a donation or get sponsors to pledge money for their participation in the ride. The goal was to raise enough money to buy materials to build a new house for a disabled military veteran in the Freehold, NJ area -- a worthy cause, indeed.
I told Mike, "I'll think about it."
Mike came back with, "Well, listen Walt, this will be a great ride and you won't want to miss it."
The wheels in my head were going round and round as I arrived home and said my farewells and thanks for the escort to Mike and his wife as they headed back to their own home five miles away.
There were only two more days until the Habitat ride and I hadn't registered or donated anything yet. So I got an application by emailing another chapter member, "Just Bob."
I decided that I would ride my wife's white 1998 Honda Gold Wing Motor Trike with the pegs down in her honor. Jane was going to take this ride with me.
On Sunday, October 5, 2008, I rode Jane's trike -- without any security detail -- two miles to where we were to assemble at 8 a.m. This picture was taken just after I arrived at the chapter staging area. You can see the white trike on the right. Note my red helmet on the seat with special tiger ears and tail affixed. My chapter, known as F-Troop, often rides with these tiger ears and tail to attract attention and be seen better (and to just have fun). Jane always wore these so I wore them also for this ride.
One of the members of F-Troop, known as Blondie, likes to carry the tiger tail and ears to its extreme manifestation and rides with a full-size tiger character in the pillion position. Also, note the tiger ears and tail on her helmet.
After all the F-Troop riders had arrived, we rode over to the main parking lot at the local theater and parked up front so as to be near the beginning of the parade. Seen in front of the two columns of F-Troop bikes is "Just Bob."
There were several people who wanted to ride in the parade but were not motorcyclists. A few sidecar rigs were provided to give these folks a ride to remember. Here is another Bob with his sidecar top up, waiting for a guest passenger.
The parking lot quickly filled up with motorcycles. Riders registered, got coffee and donuts, and chatted waiting for the opening ceremonies.
Here's a closeup showing F-Troop members in red.
Here's a picture up front showing the mass of machines.
There were many beautifully painted motorcycles with military themes. The following two pictures show one such motorcycle.
The color guard formed and a young woman prepared to sing the National Anthem.
A local priest gave the invocation and blessing of the bikes and prayed for a safe ride for all.
Then the ride began. This was an escorted ride. That means that all traffic on the side streets is stopped and the police stand at all traffic lights and stop signs to allow us to pass without stopping.
The problem with parades of this sort is that the riders in front will get way ahead of the riders in back forcing the riders in back to speed up to extremely high speeds to keep up. Therefore, it's necessary for riders in front to go slower to keep the group together.
We proceeded on a route through western Monmouth County that covered approximately 70 miles before turning onto the Route 33 Bypass at Millhurst Mills. From there it would be a straight ride for 5-6 miles before leaving that road and winding around country roads to reach the destination at the Colts Neck Firehouse on Route 537.
But before that, we traveled over scenic, winding country roads past horse farms and protected farm land. F-Troop members had a great time chatting on the CB about various points of interest along the way and making jokes and side comments. It was a great way to spend a fall Sunday afternoon.
At times, we were in open areas with curves both ahead of us and behind us. You could look forward and see 50-100 bikes winding left and right in front of you and you could look in your rear view mirrors to see similar movements behind you. There were no interspersed cars, just motorcycles for as far as the eye could see in front and to the rear. Quite a sight!
When we arrived at Millhurst Mills and turned onto the Route 33 Bypass, there was some confusion and slowness of the motorcycles ahead of me. When I turned onto Route 33 and headed east, it was a straight stretch of highway and since our speed was well under the speed limit, the bikes had bunched together in a mass formation. It was beautiful. A solid mass of machines tightly formed and moving with precision. I thought of Jane whose spirit was riding with me in the pillion seat. She would have loved this ride. She loved formations like this that displayed the beauty of motorcycling to non-riders. I had to wonder what the people in the cars on the other side of the road were thinking seeing a solid mass of motorcycles traveling in the other direction. Would they know that we were out raising $55,000 to build a house for a disabled veteran? Probably not. We were the ones who knew what we were doing and that's all that mattered. Did anyone know that I was riding with Jane's trike and Jane's spirit on the back. Not a chance. But I knew and many of my fellow riders knew. That's all I cared about.
When we arrived at the Firehouse and parked on the grass, we lined up for a great lunch put on by a local restaurant, The Cabin. Here's a few pictures of that scene.
It was announced that $55,000 had been raised by the ride and that was enough to buy the materials to build a house for a disabled veteran. Also, there had been 767 bikes in the ride -- a new record.
Here's a picture of that great F-Troop group that accompanied me on the Habitat Ride. That's me, second from the left. Jane wasn't riding with me this year but her spirit surrounded us for the whole trip and made her trike run the smoothest it's ever run.
Thanks Jane for 47 years of wedded bliss. It was quite a ride. Godspeed.
All pictures ©2008 Walter F. Kern
In addition, the motorcycle community has been providing me with a zone of security when I ride. For example, the members of my Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) chapter often go on dinner runs. They try their best to make sure that I'm getting out of the house on a regular basis and getting a decent meal so I get calls to remind me that an event is coming up. Such was the case when I got called to go to Big Ed's BBQ on October 2, 2008. Mike calls and says that they will be over to pick me up. That means that at least two motorcycle riders will show up in my driveway at an appointed time. I pull my trike out and fall in behind the lead rider while the second rider falls in behind me. I am now in the protected position. All moves in traffic are communicated over the CB radios we have on all the bikes. Lane changes are announced as the rider in back seizes the lane first and then notifies me and the lead rider to move over. We move as a unit with military precision. This is a very neat way to travel.
We had a great time at Big Ed's and on the way back to my house -- again in the protected mode -- Mike says over the CB, "You know, we'd really like to see you come out this weekend for the Habitat for Humanity Ride."
I knew about the ride. It was to be an escorted ride of up to 1000 motorcycles. Each rider had to register and make a donation or get sponsors to pledge money for their participation in the ride. The goal was to raise enough money to buy materials to build a new house for a disabled military veteran in the Freehold, NJ area -- a worthy cause, indeed.
I told Mike, "I'll think about it."
Mike came back with, "Well, listen Walt, this will be a great ride and you won't want to miss it."
The wheels in my head were going round and round as I arrived home and said my farewells and thanks for the escort to Mike and his wife as they headed back to their own home five miles away.
There were only two more days until the Habitat ride and I hadn't registered or donated anything yet. So I got an application by emailing another chapter member, "Just Bob."
I decided that I would ride my wife's white 1998 Honda Gold Wing Motor Trike with the pegs down in her honor. Jane was going to take this ride with me.
On Sunday, October 5, 2008, I rode Jane's trike -- without any security detail -- two miles to where we were to assemble at 8 a.m. This picture was taken just after I arrived at the chapter staging area. You can see the white trike on the right. Note my red helmet on the seat with special tiger ears and tail affixed. My chapter, known as F-Troop, often rides with these tiger ears and tail to attract attention and be seen better (and to just have fun). Jane always wore these so I wore them also for this ride.
One of the members of F-Troop, known as Blondie, likes to carry the tiger tail and ears to its extreme manifestation and rides with a full-size tiger character in the pillion position. Also, note the tiger ears and tail on her helmet.
After all the F-Troop riders had arrived, we rode over to the main parking lot at the local theater and parked up front so as to be near the beginning of the parade. Seen in front of the two columns of F-Troop bikes is "Just Bob."
There were several people who wanted to ride in the parade but were not motorcyclists. A few sidecar rigs were provided to give these folks a ride to remember. Here is another Bob with his sidecar top up, waiting for a guest passenger.
The parking lot quickly filled up with motorcycles. Riders registered, got coffee and donuts, and chatted waiting for the opening ceremonies.
Here's a closeup showing F-Troop members in red.
Here's a picture up front showing the mass of machines.
There were many beautifully painted motorcycles with military themes. The following two pictures show one such motorcycle.
The color guard formed and a young woman prepared to sing the National Anthem.
A local priest gave the invocation and blessing of the bikes and prayed for a safe ride for all.
Then the ride began. This was an escorted ride. That means that all traffic on the side streets is stopped and the police stand at all traffic lights and stop signs to allow us to pass without stopping.
The problem with parades of this sort is that the riders in front will get way ahead of the riders in back forcing the riders in back to speed up to extremely high speeds to keep up. Therefore, it's necessary for riders in front to go slower to keep the group together.
We proceeded on a route through western Monmouth County that covered approximately 70 miles before turning onto the Route 33 Bypass at Millhurst Mills. From there it would be a straight ride for 5-6 miles before leaving that road and winding around country roads to reach the destination at the Colts Neck Firehouse on Route 537.
But before that, we traveled over scenic, winding country roads past horse farms and protected farm land. F-Troop members had a great time chatting on the CB about various points of interest along the way and making jokes and side comments. It was a great way to spend a fall Sunday afternoon.
At times, we were in open areas with curves both ahead of us and behind us. You could look forward and see 50-100 bikes winding left and right in front of you and you could look in your rear view mirrors to see similar movements behind you. There were no interspersed cars, just motorcycles for as far as the eye could see in front and to the rear. Quite a sight!
When we arrived at Millhurst Mills and turned onto the Route 33 Bypass, there was some confusion and slowness of the motorcycles ahead of me. When I turned onto Route 33 and headed east, it was a straight stretch of highway and since our speed was well under the speed limit, the bikes had bunched together in a mass formation. It was beautiful. A solid mass of machines tightly formed and moving with precision. I thought of Jane whose spirit was riding with me in the pillion seat. She would have loved this ride. She loved formations like this that displayed the beauty of motorcycling to non-riders. I had to wonder what the people in the cars on the other side of the road were thinking seeing a solid mass of motorcycles traveling in the other direction. Would they know that we were out raising $55,000 to build a house for a disabled veteran? Probably not. We were the ones who knew what we were doing and that's all that mattered. Did anyone know that I was riding with Jane's trike and Jane's spirit on the back. Not a chance. But I knew and many of my fellow riders knew. That's all I cared about.
When we arrived at the Firehouse and parked on the grass, we lined up for a great lunch put on by a local restaurant, The Cabin. Here's a few pictures of that scene.
It was announced that $55,000 had been raised by the ride and that was enough to buy the materials to build a house for a disabled veteran. Also, there had been 767 bikes in the ride -- a new record.
Here's a picture of that great F-Troop group that accompanied me on the Habitat Ride. That's me, second from the left. Jane wasn't riding with me this year but her spirit surrounded us for the whole trip and made her trike run the smoothest it's ever run.
Thanks Jane for 47 years of wedded bliss. It was quite a ride. Godspeed.
All pictures ©2008 Walter F. Kern
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