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The Road from the White House, Motorbikes for the Masses, product spotlights and reviews, monthly columns and great travel ideas.
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Motorcycles, Travel & Adventure
Volume 21 No. 9
SEPTEMBER 2015
Riding Out Of Summer
SIX DEADLY DRIVERS
MOTORBIKES FOR THE MASSES
ROAD FROM THE WHITE HOUSE
Publishers Brian Rathjen • Shira Kamil
Contributors Mark Byers, Pamela Collins,Victor Cruz, Bill Heald,Dr. Seymour O’Life
Editorial Office BACKROADS, POB 317Branchville NJ 07826
phone 973.948.4176
fax 973.948.0823
email [email protected]
online www.backroadsusa.com
Advertising 973-948-4176
BACKROADS (ISSN 1087-2088) is published monthly by BACK-ROADS™, Inc. 2015. All rights reserved. BACKROADS™ may notbe reproduced in any manner without specific written consent fromthe publisher. BACKROADS™ welcomes and encourages submis-sions (text and photos) and suggestions. Include phone number withsubmissions. BACKROADS™ will only return material with enclosedsufficient postage. The written articles and opinions printed in BACK-ROADS™ are not necessarily those of the publisher and should notbe considered an endorsement. The Rip & Rides® published are rid-den on the sole responsibilty of the rider. BACKROADS™ is not re-sponsible for the conditions of the public roadways traversed. Pleaserespect the environment, read your owner’s manual and wear properprotective gear and helmet. Ride within your limits, not over them.
Motorcycles, Travel & Adventure
W H A T ’ S I N S I D EMONTHLY COLUMNS
FREE WHEELIN’ ..................................................4
WHATCHATHINKIN’ ...........................................6
POSTCARDS FROM THE HEDGE.......................7
ON THE MARK ....................................................8
BACKLASH........................................................10
GREAT ALL AMERICAN DINER RUN ..............12
BIG CITY GETAWAY .........................................14
WE’RE OUTTA HERE........................................17
MYSTERIOUS AMERICA..................................20
SHIRA’S ICE CREAM RUN ...............................24
WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE............................37
INDUSTRY INFOBITES.....................................39
UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR ...................42
FEATURESTHE ROAD FROM THE WHITE HOUSE ...........26
MOTORBIKES FOR THE MASSES...................33
PRODUCT REVIEWSGIVI V56 MAXIA TOPCASE..............................35
VICTORY ELECTRIC EMPULSE TT ..................35
OLYMPIA AIRGLIDE MESH TECH....................36
GRIP GLOVES BY RACER GLOVES USA .........44
26
14
33
Miles Big & sMalllooking at your riding day Backwards….
Okay, feel free to make notes. There might be
a quiz after this one.
On a recent tour with some friends, coming
from Alberta, Canada’s Rockies to the Cascade
Mountains of British Columbia we came up with the fact that to get where
we wanted to be that next evening, we’d have a long day ahead – some 300
miles or more.
I could feel the cringing coming from one or two of the pillion riders at
the idea of such miles coming their way.
Now I am aware, for some, 300 miles is not a big deal and I feel the smiles
burning into me from the Iron Butt crowd, for whom such miles are done on
their way to breakfast.
But, all miles are not equal, are they?
I told the passengers at dinner that night not to fret, as the next day’s ride
was small miles… compared to big miles.
“Miles are miles,” said one woman.
Not really. Let me explain a bit more in depth.
Our ride the next day west into British Columbia would be along the Yel-
lowhead Highway, a good size, well maintained route that is one of the very
few roads that would put us in the direction we needed to go.
I knew that, as such, the miles would go fairly quickly, and the ride easy
on the body and the eyes; unlike some less attractive bigger roads in other
parts of North America, this area of Canada is about as jaw-droppingly beau-
tiful as can be.
With little or no traffic, and a quick pace, these 300 miles would be done,
and the ride that day would get us into the city of Kamloops with plenty of
daylight to spare.
On the other hand if we were faced with
300 miles in, let’s say, the Dolomites, we’d
be lucky if you got finished by dark or worse,
and then we’d still be heading to the hot tub
for a soak.
The miles that can be tight, twisty and tech-
nical, as can be found in a place like Italy’s
Dolomites, take a good deal of concentration
and, after a few hours, commitment as well.
What can start off as an invigorating morning
blast can, and will, morph into a tough haul
after a couple of hundred miles or so of con-
stant right /left/ right /left uphill/downhill/off-
camber/hairpin/bicycle that will wear down
the toughest rider.
Can you imagine finishing a Saddlesore 1000 on
roads like the Transalpina of Romania…?
I can’t and why would you?
Okay, IBA – take a breath here. A thousand miles any-
where is a lot of miles. I’m aware.
The point I was making is that the environment in
which your ride can and will determine how far, how
quickly and how easily you will go.
Other things can come into play making an easy day
into a tough one.
Inclement weather or heavy or stopped traffic can eat
both time and miles from anyone’s day.
It’s all relative, as some things can add to a ride’s
pleasure, while other things can take away from it.
My basic thought is that, for the most part, the ‘big’
miles will usually be found along the small and more
technical roads and the ‘small’ miles will be found along
on the big and wide open thoroughfares.
You might think this is backwards but ‘small’ miles
do not wear on you as the ‘big’ ones can.
A few years back we were heading home from the
Iron Horse Resort in North Carolina. We had planned
to get to I-81 and blast north but our ride that day to the
interstate took all day. We could have taken a connector
road and been there in a few hours, but with plenty of
time and in no rush we took the twistier and more in-
tense backroads. We did not get far from Point A to
Point B on a map, but had a very full riding day.
Big miles.
The next day we rode all the way home – small miles.
You following me?
I know, I’m confused too – why should things change.
F R E E W H E E L I N ’BRIAN RATHJEN
Page 4 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
the Best laid Plans…
Be aware of your surroundings, anticipate problems, and strive tohave more talent, traction, and time than is needed.
Ken Condon – Why We Crash
Perhaps this column would fit better in ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ but as it
is based on my opinion rather than hard facts and figures, we’ll leave it where
it is. Thank you, Mr. Condon, for supplying me with fodder for an otherwise
difficult task in my monthly chores.
In a recent overseas adventure, one that had been anticipated and planned
for some time, I did not pay heed to some of the tenet that Ken put forth in
this statement. But let me digress a bit.
Several years ago, while watching the British version of Top Gear, the guys
were storming the byways of Romania. Taking advantage of having full run
of Bucharest (not Budapest – don’t make that mistake) they raced along the
tunnels under the Parliament building and generally wreaked havoc wherever
they went (a typical show, all in all). While traveling the countryside, in their
high-powered sports car du jour, they mentioned ‘the best road in the world,
even better than Paso di Stelvio.’ Now, I have no great love for this particular
pavement, as I feel it is much too tourist-crowded and bus-laden, but I do
appreciate what it brings to the table with its hairpins, twisties and technical
aspects one needs to maneuver it properly, and safely.
The roadway they referred to was the Transfăgărășan, the second-highest
paved road in Romania after the Transalpina. It runs a mere 90km through
the tallest sections of the Southern Carpathians, connecting the regions of
Transylvania and Wallachia. After reading the description of the delicious-
sounding pavement, how could I not be salivating to put two wheels upon it.
Plans were made, tickets were bought, bikes were reserved and off we went
for a wonderful Adriatic MotoTours adventures to Romania, Bulgaria and
the ever-exotic Turkey.
I would be riding a bike that is very familiar to me – the BMW F700GS.
This is a great utility player, doing what is necessary to provide a great day’s
ride in a variety of environments. Accepting my steed at the InterContinental
Hotel (the hotel of choice of foreign press during the Romanian Revolution
of 1989), I was anticipatory of a most excellent trip ahead of us.
And so it was. Through farmlands and mountain passes, I had a romping
good time. The bike felt wonderful, the scenery was enticing and the weather
was cooperating. Well, sort of.
Over one mountain roadway, of no particular intensity or difficulty, we en-
countered a bit of moisture. Up until this point, we had been moving along
at a good clip, passing slower vehicles safely and prudently. I was situated
somewhere middle to back of our 8 or 9 bike pack. Brian and I were ‘teth-
ered’ by our Sena Bluetooth to comment of various scenery and such. While
rounding an easy left-hand curve, I decided that, due to the approaching wet
conditions, it was time to slow it down a notch. I think Brian was probably
thinking the same thing at the same time, as he later told me he was just going
to tell me that. Coming around the bend, there was a small truck ahead of
me and, as I had done several times earlier in the day, I started to pass it.
The difference between the several times before and this time were: driz-
zle-to-rain and wet center line. Let’s take a look back at what Ken said at the
beginning of this piece: ‘…strive to have more talent, traction, and time than
is needed.’ What should have been done was slow the bike down, stay behind
said truck until the road straightened out and then evaluate the conditions to
see if passing was prudent. What did happen was the front tire, when hitting
the wet center line, immediately tucked to the left. When it hit the non-slip-
pery pavement, it caught and the bike tried to right itself, flipping it to the
right. The aftermath was my sliding off to the left of the roadway with the
bike heading in the opposite direction. All this mayhem was transmitted over
said Sena Bluetooth into Brian’s helmet. Painful for me, terrifying for him.
Upon his return to the point of impact, he spied the bike on the right side
of the road under the guardrail, next to the dropoff. He also heard me. in his
helmet, telling him that, ‘I think I’m okay.’ Looking back and forth, he said,
‘Okay, but WHERE are you?’ I was on the left side of the road, getting up
and out of the way of any oncoming traffic (Romanians are loathe to slowing
down for obstructions in the road, even human ones). Yes, I was okay –
bruised a bit with a pulled groin muscle in my right leg – and would live to
ride another day. (Continued on Page 11)
W H A T C H AT H I N K I N ’SHIRA KAMIL
Page 6 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
Cross Country Powersports911 Middlesex Ave, Metuchen, NJ (732) 491-2900
www.CrossCountryPowersports.com
what would Mr. honda do?
The other day I was riding along, pondering (you
know, the way you do) and a very strange thought
popped into my head. True, my head is often the
repository for strange thoughts, but this strange thought I believe had
a certain perverse logic to it. It came to me that, in terms of person-
ality, Apple founder Steve Jobs had a trait in common with Honda
Motor creator Soichiro Honda. They could both be downright hos-
tile to people who made mistakes while in their employ, driven
I believe by the fact that they were really passionate about get-
ting their ideas from their heads into actual machines. And,
they had tempers. Big tempers. Wrath of Kahn tempers,
if any of the stories I’ve read and heard were true. Is this
a necessary trait of people destined to start companies
that make a huge impact on the world? Who knows?
But while both of these amazing gents could be
difficult at times, they certainly made their marks
while they were on this planet.
This comparison (and the whole popping
into my head thing) was hatched because of
a motorcycle that has been announced this
summer, and it is certainly a stunner. I’ll tell
you about the bike (the Honda RC213V-S)
but before I do, the connection between Mr. Jobs and Mr. Honda started when
I asked myself if Mr. Honda would have signed off on this exotic new 2016
machine. This led to the Jobs connection, for many in the techie pundit world
asked the question about whether Steve would have approved the production
of the Apple Watch that was released this spring. The motorcycle and the
watch are very different kettles of sushi, and it’s always silly in many ways
to speculate on what a person who is no longer with us may have said about
something.
But such thoughts do sometimes enter discussion, and I do find speculating
fun as long as you don’t take it too seriously. So, let me tell you about this
rather unusual Honda, and why I was absolutely thrilled with the bike (until
one little specification kind of killed it for me). What Honda has done has,
literally, taken their MotoGP racing bike and constructed a street legal version
that you can use to motor down to the donut shop and/or spice up your com-
mute a bit. I have a deep affection for 90-degree Honda V-Fours, and the fact
that this racetrack refugee has this configuration
just like the RC30 and RC45 before it, in-
stantly got me interested. The big differ-
ence here is those bikes were World
Superbike contenders, which is of course
a very high class of racing. But the level of
competition, money, performance and pres-
tige of MotoGP is at the level where you can
say it’s the Formula One of motorcycle rac-
ing. A few years back the idea of making a
street-legal GP bike would have been nuts,
because the race bikes were insanely feral
500 two-stokes that mere mortals couldn’t
even negotiate out of a parking lot without
getting launched into the stratosphere.
Throttle response was quite brutal, when
you hit the power band. But when the gov-
erning body decided to change from two-
strokes to four-strokes the bikes became
more tame (yet ultimately faster) and now with all the electronic traction
controls and engine tuning on the fly, it’s not near as insane a proposition to
stick a license plate on Marc Marquez’s bike and go to the shops. It’s still
nuts of course, but a tad more feasible.
Of course, there are a few changes in the transition to the boulevard. In
(Continued on Page 11)
P O S T C A R D SF R O M T H E H E D G E
BILL HEALD
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 7
the Moving Finger
“The Moving Finger writes; and, having writ, Moves on: nor all thyPiety nor Wit Shall lure it back to cancel half a Line, Nor all thy Tearswash out a Word of it.”
Omar Khayyám, The Rubaiyat
It started okay. The day, that is – it started okay. The black Triumph grum-
bled me through light traffic to an early meeting with young people. One of
them rode up on a second-generation SV650 and I waved him into a space
by the Trumpet. Daniel’s a good kid – a new employee – and I’m determined
to get him started well, both as an engineer and a motorcyclist. He needs
coaching in both.
The meeting was good, if there is
such a thing. Young people talked
about their blossoming careers and
asked questions, serious and irrever-
ent. It was the kind of gathering that
old dogs like me say keeps them
young. They were eager and attentive, soaking up information like young
sponges. It turned out that meeting was the highlight of my day.
Then the text came. The telltale “ping” from the mobile told me fresh in-
formation had come and I, like Pavlov’s salivating dog, responded accord-
ingly to the irresistible lure. I wish I hadn’t…but it wouldn’t have mattered:
the world turns whether or not we’re informed. “John’s dead,” it said, “van
pulled out in front of him.” Seconds later, another signal rang and a similar
message came in. Bad news travels fast in the flight test family.
In the space of a minute, life went from joyous and full of the promise of
new careers being molded over a long period of time to a single stellar career
and life ended in an instant. And unlike the former, there wasn’t a damn
thing anyone could do about the latter. Like Omar said, all the piety and
tears in the world wasn’t going to change the fact that our colleague and fel-
low rider was gone.
John was a test pilot – a good one - who could take the notoriously-difficult
E-2 Hawkeye and bend it to his will. He could hit the correct cable on the
back of a moving, pitching ship at night with a 50,000 lb airplane and, should
the hook skip the wire, safely wrestle it back into the void for another try.
He was a loving husband and a fine engineering officer, making hard com-
promises to keep the airplanes flying in ever-tightening fiscal times. One
thing he couldn’t control was the van that turned across his path, however.
As word spread, the inevitable happened: words like “…and YOU be care-
ful out there” were said. Worse were the unsaid – the faces I can read oh so
well by now, the fearful or even tut-tutting looks as if I was defective for
choosing the bike as transportation. But I had errands to run and “miles to
go before I sleep,” so on I went. I wish I could say I compartmentalized the
news well, but I didn’t. At the end of the day, I got all the way to the bike
without realizing my helmet was still hanging on the hook in my office.
Most of us have to face this dilemma, whether
arisen from my colleague John or fellow author
Jeff: when reminded of our own mortality by
their loss, do we stop or do we carry on? There
is no doubt that there is an increase in risk for
this two-wheeled life we choose, yet most of us
carry on. We tell ourselves we’re lucky or skilled or both. We train and dress
to increase our odds of success. We ride with a healthy, but cynical and para-
noid belief that everyone is out to get us, but ultimately, there are no guaran-
tees. No one promised us a risk-free life and were it offered, would we take
it? Most of us live FOR it.
I talked to a guy today who decided the risk/reward ratio was too high and
is selling his bike. I respect his choice, but I do not share it. I know too
many people who shunned the risks of life only to be claimed by disease or
to pass into the infirmity of old age with unrequited dreams and regrets for
a life half-lived. I think John would have agreed. Neither of us would want
fellow riders to throw down their gloves at the thought of our mortality. The
moving finger has to keep moving.
Rest in peace, John. You’ve got a ready deck. Call the ball.
O N T H E M A R KMARK BYERS
Page 8 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
F.W. SPEERYAMAHA
7 Main Ave • Passaic, NJ 07055
973-778-6256 • www.SpeerYamaha.com
RUTT’S HUT RIPPER RUNSUNDAY, SEPT. 13 @ 9AM • call for details
Wheel Sport Center Inc.399 HUGUENOT ST • NEW ROCHELLE, NY
914.636.7235 • WheelSportCenter.net
JOIN THE STORY…RIDE URAL
With a sidecar and trunk you’ll have enough room for all your favorite gear(or best friend) during your next ride, all year long.
NO ONE PROMISED US A RISK-FREE LIFE
AND WERE IT OFFERED, WOULD WE
TAKE IT? MOST OF US LIVE FOR IT.
20 Years and Counting
Brian and Shira,
Congratulations on your twentieth anniversary.
As they say, “time flies when you’re havin’ fun”.
Both your columns this month were especially appropriate at expressing
your gratitude to your readers, your writers and your family. I really liked
how you both described just how far you’ve come since your humble begin-
nings. In my opinion, you both certainly did more than your usual excellent
job of describing how passionate you guys are about what you do and how
much you enjoy doing it.
Hope you have at least twenty more years of continued success. Ride
safe.... Your friend and riding buddy (even if only in spirit)....
Jerry Gambella
The Program…
Hey Brian ,
It’s Alonzo. I just wanted to say as a guy sober 27 years your 12 steps of
Bikerholics Annonymous was hilarious. I’ve been sharing it with my riding
buddies. We’re thinking of starting a meeting, you know, after the next bike
ride. Ride safe my friend.
Alonzo Bodden
Staggered…
Hi Brian!
A fine summer day to you sir. I enjoyed your repeat sermon on group rid-
ing. I’ve been banging that drum for a long time too. Just today I got an email
from Bike Bandit with advice on group riding! They’re promoting that lethal
one second stagger. Really?! You know I posted a comment telling them
that’s not a space cushion, that’s a train wreck. Of course I did.
We’ve got a lot of roadway out there. Why don’t we use it to make every-
one safer and happier, eh? What’s with the parade mentality anyhow? I must
be an oddball because I don’t understand it at all. My idea of a fun group
ride is 2 bikes. And only if I know the other person’s riding pretty well.
Enjoy the day brother! Hugs all around,
Jeff
New Sweden 450 Rally
Dear Shira and Brian,
Wow, Thanks! We couldn’t of wished for a nicer write-up of our New Swe-
den 450! Plus, we really appreciate the plug at the end for our rally. THANKS
for continuing the best local riding magazine there is!
Phil Levin, D.C.
Words from Sci-Fi
Backroads,
Feldercarb?
Peter Miller
What? It’s a word. Without Google, does anyone
know where it is from?
A Backroads commemorative pin for the first correct
email to us.
We’re Outta Here!
Shira and Brian,
A long overdue thank you for choosing to stay with
us and include us as a Backroads ‘We’re Outta Here!’
destination. Before getting the mail on the day our copy
arrived, a couple stopped by because they had already
received theirs and expressed interest in staying with us
sometime soon! We so appreciate your kind words and
great photos of our place...enjoyed the reference to the
pond...’Mitch really dives into to keep things perfect.’
Nice! I will always remember your very timely ar-
rival and Brian’s comment ‘the photo journalist in me
really wants to snap a photo...’
Hope you are having a wonderful summer, think you
mentioned some exciting travel plans?!
We thank you again, and welcome you and Brian and
Backroads readers looking for ‘a weekend destination
keeping you on the backroads’~
Patti, Mitch, Gracie et al • Frog Hollow Farm
Hi Brian
Thanks so much for the great article in Backroads!
We are getting some really good feedback from it and
visitors. We look forward to having your group here in
September, if you make it over. See you then!
Nancy • J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works
Brian and Shira,
You may remember Patti and I. She is the tall redhead
who rides a 1200GS and I have a handlebar mustache
and ride a Super Tenere. We just got back from Europe
(using Air Canada’s new program to fly our bikes over
and back), and we saw your four night Virginia, West
Virginia and Pennsylvania tour in September. We did
sign up with each of the hotels although two of the three
were out of reserved rooms.
Whether you’re traveling alone, with a small group or a wholeriding club, the General Francis Marion has a variety of roomsperfect for any event. Luxury is an extension of our Southern
hospitality. Contact us concerning reservations today.
Rated as one of the Top MotorcyclingDestinations in the Nation
‘The accommodations, the ambiance, the staffand, best of all, the roads are phenomenal.The General Francis Marion cannot be beat’
Backroads Magazine - May 2014
Restored to its glory years during the roaring 20’s,the General Francis Marion Hotel is steeped in
history and elegance with all the modern amenities.
Located just 1.8 miles from Route 16
- the Back of the Dragon.
260 curve, 32-mile, 3 mountain roller coaster of a ride.
Incredible vistas, panoramic views
and enough roads to ride for days!
General Francis Marion Hotel and the Black Rooster Restaurant107 East Main Street • Marion, VA 24354 • 276-783-4800 • www.gfmhotel.com • [email protected]
Page 10 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
BACKLASH Letters to the Editor
Postcards FroM the hedge Cont’d from Page 7)
addition to bolting on the things you must have to ride on the street (lights,
sidestand, catalytic convertor and muffler, street instrumentation, etc.) there
are alterations they had to do so the bike can be operated and maintained by
folks at a dealership. The pneumatic valves on the racer (the Formula One
comparison again) are replaced with conventional spring-type valves, and
the gearbox is replaced as well, going from Honda’s “seamless” competition
transmission to a more familiar unit. The brakes are also armed with more
streetable Brembos steel discs, as opposed to the carbon units on the other
guy. But truth be told, the incredible power, technology and hand-built crafts-
manship of the HRC machine is largely intact on this marvel, including most
of the incredibly sophisticated electronic engine and throttle controls, hand-
welded frame and feathery carbon-fiber bodywork.
Incredible stuff, right? I thought, you know, this is a pretty awesome ma-
chine due to its direct relation to the state-of-the-art race bike, yet it still has
roots in Honda tradition (especially the 90-degree V-Four). It even has the
360-degree crankshaft, which was the same as the original V-Fours and has
a very unique droning cadence. I think I should seriously look into purchasing
one, says I. Sort of the ultimate bike, to enjoy on special days and to keep as
a showcase piece. I might even keep it clean.
And then I stumbled upon the MSRP. I thought it might be around $20,000,
because, clearly, I am an idiot. The price? $184,000 U.S. Yes, you could buy
a bungalow for that. I mean, that’s a bit of a cruel trick. I thought maybe the
price included your own full-time crew chief and staff, but no.
It was here where I thought about Mr. Honda. There were two things about
this bike that seemed odd in terms of the way I perceived him. First, he really
made his reputation by making high quality and performance affordable for
the masses. Second, when it came to racing, that was a professional affair.
Race bikes weren’t just developed, tested and largely maintained in secret,
GP bikes were often destroyed at the end of seasons so competing teams
could not steal their innovations. So the question then surfaced as to whether
Mr. Honda would have agreed with the decision to build and sell this
$184,000 street-legal version of their GP bike. I should point out that Honda
did sell a few oval-piston NR bikes years ago that were also quite expensive
and exotic, but not until after Mr. Honda passed. You could argue the question
either way, and obviously we’ll never know for sure. Like with Steve Jobs
and the Apple Watch, what this ultimately shows is how influential these
amazing men really were, and how their passing truly changes how we view
the decisions of the companies they left behind. Regardless, that is one sweet
V-Four.
My question is, will you be riding Thursday or are people just meeting
Thursday evening at the first hotel and riding Friday-Sunday?
John F Heveron
John, glad you are joining us.
Which hotels had no more rooms? I know rooms have been coming avail-
able as we get closer and people’s plans change.
We’ll be meeting in Winchester, VA that first evening with a number of sug-
gested routes for the rest of the weekend. (We have found many do their own
thing regardless). As of now we have no big ride planned to Virginia.
If we do have anything like that it will be to encourage smaller groups to
head down – who wants to ride with more than 5 other bikes anyway?
If you have not been on a Backroads Rally before you will find that it is a
very loose event (terribly unorganized) and easy going (please don’t ask us
any specific details, as we don’t know).
But, we’re sure you will have a great time!
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 11
whatchathinkin’ Con’t from Page 6
However, that ‘other day’ would not be the one that included the Trans-
făgărășan. That day I would be hobbling around Sibiu with a cane, while
Brian and the rest of the group frolicked in the mountains. This was conse-
quence for not paying heed to the beginning words. While I feel that my talent
is adequate or better, my judgment of traction and time were woefully lack-
ing. For the next number of days, I would be pillion, which was not such a
bad spot, but I would be plagued by the fact that I had come all this way, to
ride a specific path, only to be foiled by my own ineptness.
So please, go back and read that beginning sentence again so you won’t
find disappointment in your best laid plans.
sky caFé • sky Manor airPort48 SKY MANOR ROAD, PITTSTOWN, NJ 08867
908-996-4200 • WWW.SKYMANORAIRPORT.COM
We have had a run lately of great restaurants found at various local airports around
the region and this month we’d like to bring you one of the best – the Sky Café at
Sky Manor Airport.
The restaurant has been here for a long time but recently underwent a massive re-
furbishing. The Sky Café is now under the direction of Ms. Rosella Caloiero of the
Frenchtown Café and officially re-opened on April 6, 2015.
We have never been here before and the Café was really very nice. But, we have
seen the many renovation pictures and can tell that a lot of heart and soul went into
making the Sky Café what it is today.
And, what it is, is faaantastic!
Sky Manor is a busy airport handling both small private planes and helicopters.
Taking a seat, whether inside in their snazzy and new dining room or on the deck or
picnic table, you can pretty much guarantee that you will see numerous take-offs
and landing during your meal.
And they have some meals that will gain altitude quickly!
Menus. It is something we have never really thought of, unless the type is so small that we need to
Rollin’ FastCycle Sports
104 Main StreetLebanon, NJ
908.236.9000www.RollinFast.com
Page 12 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
Rollin’ Fast Cycle Sports Presents
GREAT ALL AMERICAN DINER RUN tasty places to take your bike
Rip & Ride® • SKY CAFÉ48 SKY MANOR ROAD, PITTSTOWN, NJ 08867908-996-4200 • WWW.SKYMANORAIRPORT.COM
100-MILE ONE-WAY GPS ROUTE HERE:WWW.SENDSPACE.COM/PRO/DL/L6SBAX
RED APPLE RESTLEFT RTE. 17 SOUTHBEAR RIGHT RTE. 17ALEFT AT CASCADE RD.LEFT AT BRADY RD.RIGHT AT BLACK ROCK RD.LEFT AT WARWICK RD.LEFT AT RTE. 94 INTO NJRIGHT AT BEAVER RUN RD. (AFTER RTE.23)RIGHT AT ICE PLANT RD.STRAIGHT AT MUD CUT / VALLEY VIEW RD.RIGHT AT RTE. 94RIGHT AT SID TAYLOR RD.RIGHT AT RTE. 206LEFT AT CR 626 HALSEY RD.THROUGH DOUBLE BRIDGESLEFT AT CR 626LEFT AT CR 521LEFT AT SPRING VALLEY RD.RIGHT AT RTE. 94BEAR LEFT AT SILVER LAKE RD.LEFT AT CR 521STRAIGHT AT CR 519STAY ON CR 519STRAIGHT AT SENATOR STOUT RD.STRAIGHT AT SKY MANOR RD.AIRPORT ON LEFT
go out and grab our ‘cheaters,’ and then we whine that we are getting old.
Well the Sky Café has the neatest, friendliest, almost down right happy menu we’ve seen
in years. And, in those menus (there are two of them; breakfast & lunch) you will find all
the standards you would expect from classic Americana. Of course there are the basic eggs,
with bacon, sausage or Jersey pork roll but, it’s their Sky Delights that do just that.
The Aviator Skillet with bacon, onions, potato, cheddar scrambled eggs served in a siz-
zling skillet. They have an amazing veggy skillet along those line as well – with less bacon
and more veggy. Avocado Benedict – poached eggs with avocado, spinach and hollandaise
sauce. They’ll be more poaching of eggs with salmon and a caper lemon sauce as well.
The Sky Café has ten different omelets all with very catchy aviation names.. The Piper,
Maverick, Bi-Plane and Spitfire share the page with the Cessna and
others. Or, you can create your own.
Five different pancakes can be found, three different French toasts
and four crepes and this is just the happy looking breakfast menu.
Lunch finds a number of healthy and delicious salads with the grilled
curry chicken looking oh so good as did the maple glazed salmon salad.
They have a good offering of sandwiches and they seem to have the
market cornered on avocado, with both a BLT and turkey avocado mak-
ing their way on the menu. The Sky steak is a crowd pleaser and big
for the carnivores with its great steak with caramelized onions, mush-
rooms and provolone on a semolina roll. Vegans have three dishes to
choose from too, including a great hummus served with fresh veggies
and pita slices.
What great airport restaurant would not serve up a great burger and
they surely do this well too. Avocado? You betcha! And all the rest –
bacon, sautéed portobello and a filling patti melt that sports sautéed
onions, Swiss cheese and a horseradish mayo on grilled rye.
As you can tell there is a reason folks fly in from around the region
to chow down here at the new Sky Café – and for you we will keep it
easy and on the ground as we give you a great and filling Rip & Ride
from the old Red Apple Rest in Southfields, NY to the café in Pittstown,
New Jersey. Please enjoy your flight.
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 13
BannerMan castle & arsenal • POLLEPEL ISLAND, HUDSON RIVER
If you have ridden along the Hudson River, near Storm King or along the
eastern shore south of Beacon, then you have probably glimpse this month’s
stop on Big City Getaway.
Yes, those are the remnants of a castle on that small island in the Hudson.
And, if you don’t know, here is a bit of its story.
August 20, 1920 was a warm
day along the highlands of the
Hudson River. All was quiet and
peaceful on the river.
Pollepel Island, a 6¾-acre spit of
land, sat in the middle of all this
calm. Other than men working
near the storage warehouses, the
only noise were insects chirping
and the light breeze on the Hudson.
Helen Bannerman, wife of the
late Francis Bannerman, had just
gotten up from her hammock to get
a drink of water.
Without warning the world
erupted, as hundreds of pounds of
ammunition black powder, stored
in the powder house, exploded.
The quiet river was rocked as
windows shattered from the force
up and down the shore of the Hud-
son as the thunderous roar tore
through the valley.
Pieces of the wall slammed onto
the railroad tracks on the river’s shore. A large piece of debris landed on the
hammock where Helen Bannerman had been resting moments earlier. Re-
markably, nobody was seriously injured.
No solid explanation for the explosion was ever found and things would
never be quite the same on Pollepel Island again.
The story of Pollepel Island goes back much further than the Bannermans.
When the Dutch first arrived, along what was then called the North River
(actually an estuary all the way north to Troy), they found that the natives
along the river obviously knew of the island, but tended to stay away as they
believed bad spirits lingered there.
During the Revolutionary War the Continental Army submerged ‘chevaux
de fries,’ upright logs tipped with iron points, to discourage British ships
heading up river. These are still submerged today. Washington even wanted
to make Pollepel into a prison for captured British troops.
Page 14 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
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BIG CITY GETAWAY daytrip ideas to get out of the daily grind
The island itself was owned by a number of families but eventually was
bought by Francis Bannerman.
Francis “Frank” Bannerman VI was only three when his family emigrated
from Dundee, Scotland to Brooklyn, New York in 1854. The family business:
Bannerman’s Military Surplus
It was the world’s largest seller of surplus military equipment. Militias and
nations would outfit entire armies through Bannerman’s Catalogues. Tales
are often recounted how Bannerman’s filled an order for 100,000 saddles,
rifles, knapsacks, gun slings, uniforms, and 20 million cartridges during the
Russian-Japanese War.
Bannerman later moved his store to 501 Broadway in Manhattan in
1905, but city regulations over the danger of storing ammunition pre-
cluded him from keeping inventory at his storefronts in town.
When Bannerman’s was able to purchase 90% of the surplus from
the Spanish-American War, the business needed a location to store the
merchandise, including the over-100 tons of volatile black powder.
He realized that the city was not a safe place to hold such an arsenal.
His son had been canoeing in the Hudson River some months back
and had seen Pollepel Island. When he mentioned it to his father, Ban-
nerman knew he had found the perfect place to store his dangerous
surplus and he purchased the Hudson River Island.
Originally just storage facilities were built, but with Pollepel Island
being so beautiful, situated on the river with its expansive views and
cooling summer breezes, Bannerman began to think bigger.
I grew up with men from Scotland and I pretty much know how this
intractable streak goes.
Although not the least trained in architecture Francis Bannerman
was heavily influenced by castles from his Scottish background and
slowly, with ideas coming to him here and there, he had local builders
take his ideas to fruition – for better or worse – sometimes just from
sketches on a cocktail napkin.
The Castle was born.
Seeing the perfect opportunity for promotion Bannerman created
his walls with giant signage, letting all who travelled along this part
of the Hudson, by boat, rail or road know about Bannerman’s surplus stores.
Business and the castle boomed (no pun) and a small home was built on
the highest point of the island for Bannerman’s family to enjoy summers
away from the city.
When World War One was happening some official eyes began to look at
Bannerman’s Arsenal.
According to reports, during the course of a Naval Intelligence Bureau in-
vestigation, Charles Kovac, an Austrian-born superintendent, was arrested
on the island on April 19, 1918 on suspicion of being an enemy agent. Ap-
parently he had set aside four machine guns, which he testified were for salut-
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 15
ing passing ships. Subject to depor-
tation, he was instead paroled with
restrictions. Bannerman objected
strongly to the investigations into
his business, and protested to
Frankiln D. Roosevelt, then acting
secretary of the Navy.
Bannerman was eventually exon-
erated, but it is believed that the
stress of being under investigation
for disloyalty hastened his demise.
He died on November 26, 1918, soon after un-
dergoing gallbladder surgery.
At that point all major construction on Polle-
pel Island died too. His family continued the
business, but new regulations and the increas-
ing sophistication and risk with newer
weaponry began to slow the surplus business.
As the industry evolved, so did the company’s
direction.
When the only ferryboat to serve the island,
the Pollepel, sunk in the Hudson
River during a squall in 1950,
the island became an after-
thought. In 1957 the final super-
intendent retired, leaving the
island vacant.
The next year Frank’s grand-
children began taking a final in-
ventory and closing the
business. First the unsold ordi-
nance was disposed, then the
Smithsonian was allowed to se-
lect items for the museum col-
lection. What was left went to auction.
In the late 60’s the curious, whom like so many had seen this castle count-
less times while traveling along the river, began to tour
the island again.
This tour had not been open for a year before another
calamity struck the island. On August 8th, 1969, a fire of
unknown origin took hold and. As the island was uninhab-
ited at the time, and it was believed the explosive inven-
tory had been removed a decade prior - thus there was no
threat of explosion and it would be very difficult for local
firefighters –the authorities allowed the fire and castle to
burn. Then the fire really began to burn and explosions
were heard. Officials speculated that the explosions and
accompanying fifty foot high flames could only have
been the result of old shells still lost in the debris. Still
nothing was done.
Such a shame, and not very forward thinking.
Thankfully now there are some people who have
sought to save what is left of Bannerman’s Castle from
further destruction and to bring some shine back to this
small Hudson River island.
The Bannerman Castle Trust has been raising money
to preserve what is left of the castle and conducts tours
during the weekends of the warmer months.
Neil Caplan and the trust seem to be single-handedly saving this im-
portant piece of New York, Hudson and American history from being
swallowed up by nature and time.
In addition to tours they also feature dinners, Broadway shows and
the occasional Scottish Pipe Band performing on the island.
This is an excellent destination for riders or riding groups looking
for something a bit different and exciting on their weekend ride.
The tour costs $35 per person and takes about 2 ½ hours. When we
toured we simply parked our machines at the pier in Beacon and
hopped on the boat for the leisurely river sail to Pollepel.
We live in a region that is rich in history – it is really just up to you
to get on your motorcycle and ride into it. Log onto www.prideofthe-hudson.com or www.bannermancastle.org for more information,upcoming
events and to buy tour tickets.
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Page 16 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
Burn Brae Mansion573 HIGH RD, GLEN SPEY, NY 12737
845-856-3335 • WWW.BURNBRAEMANSION.COM
Most people today don’t let odd coincidence or superstition rule the
thoughts of their day. And, it is fair to say not all of us believe in the super-
natural or ghosts.
But, what if we were to tell you a ghost story? What if we told you of a
place we knew of that was surely haunted? Would you be interested? Would
you stay the night?
Why isn’t Dr. Seymour O’Life doing this one?
Oh, not so brave now are we?
I first though it was a strange coinci-
dence that the very day I started The Super-
naturals by David L. Golemon – an
ultra-creepy novel about a true haunted up-
state New York mansion that was built by
a sewing machine magnate in the 1892 –
we would get an invite to overnight at the
Burn Brae Mansion, just north of Route 97
and the Delaware River in the tiny hamlet
of Glen Spey, New York.
Invites to mansions are rare enough. In-
vites to a haunted mansion are even rarer.
The deeper I read into The Supernaturals,
the more wary I became of this overnight.
But, first a little history on Burn Brae.
The Burn Brae was the last of a number
of great mansions to be built in this area. It
was part of the estate of George Ross
MackKenzie, third president of the Singer
Sewing Machine Company….
wait a second…. sewing machine president? Golemon’s book was
almost the same.
You can see why we’d be getting a bit wide-eyed.
Things did not go well in the book, but we were sure it was just a coinci-
dence. Nothing to worry about. Nope.
We are very familiar with the Glen Spey area, so we created a circuitous
route to the Burn Brae and enjoyed a nice ride up through Orange and Sulli-
van counties. The day was as perfect as an early spring day could be – it was
pretty much perfect as we rolled through the old trees that line the Burn
Brae’s drive.
The mansion is a stunner with its yellow plank and stone façade. The
grounds are pleasant and inviting. Here you will find streams, open fields
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 17
Bergen County Harley-Davidson Presents
WE’RE OUTTA HERE a weekend destination keeping you on the backroads
and walking trails, one of which
leads to the old Glen Spey Cemetery,
final resting place of the original
owners.
Just looking at this peaceful setting
you would find it hard to believe that
television’s Ghost Hunters had once
been there bringing with them mo-
tion sensors, digital cameras, digital
voice recorders, and infrared ther-
mometers. Their research uncovered
evidence that was off the charts com-
pared to an average investigation. Al-
most all of the sensory investigators
reported an overwhelming sense of
spirit activity accompanied by cold patches, pressure and emotional swings.
What is happening here?
Rich in history, Burn Brae Mansion was recently restored for its 100-year
anniversary.
Following the renovations, the original servants’ quarters, now named the
Singer Suite and Elkin Room, and the adjoining guest rooms, now named
the MacKenzie Suite, were opened to the public. Shortly after reopening,
overnight guests began reporting mysterious sights and sounds during their
visit. Further research revealed a history of such reports, and subsequently
spurred curiosity about the previous occupants of Burn Brae.
If this sort of thing catches your fancy then reading
through the Ghost Hunters written journals will really
get your head spinning (sorry).
We walked up and knocked on the door.
The door was open and we walked in and were im-
mediately greeted by owners Mike and Pat Fraysse.
The Burn Brae is a stunning open floor plan with
large, almost regal, rooms and a large grand stairway.
But, for a time is wasn’t like this at all. In fact,
when Mike and Patti bought the place in the mid-90s
it was divided into a number of apartments. It took
years for the Fraysses to return it to its former
grandeur.
Opening as part Olympic cycling training facility
and part B & B it was not long before guests start
mention “things that went bump in the night.” Strange glowing lights, singing
and music where there should not be any. Cats meowing in the attic as well
as a small child crying and areas of extreme cold felt in various parts of the
house. A young woman with long blonde hair had been seen sitting on the
small staircase in the upper floors, as well as a burly worker dressed in garb
from the 1800s down by the stable and barn.
When the professional paranormal crews got here things really got inter-
esting.
Now here we were. Shira being friendly but keeping a watchful eye on the
slightly creepy dolls along one wall and me hoping something para-phenom-
inal would happen.
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(LOOK FOR HANG GLIDERS)LEFT ON RTE. 209 SOUTHRIGHT AT PEENPACK TRAILLEFT AT RTE. 42RIGHT AT RTE. 97 THROUGH HAWKS NEST
LEFT AT SR 41BURN BRAE MANSION ON LEFT
Page 18 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
We got the tour of
the house and grounds
from Mike, who’s
Olympic Bicycle Tro-
phy Room is beyond
impressive – as was the
attic – which is packed
with pure Americana.
We talked a bit about
the house and region’s
history and they put out
a great meal for us that
evening. After dinner
coffee, wine and con-
versation lasted until late in the evening
as Mike has a wealth of tales to tell.
Around 10’ish we retired upstairs to
our room.
I had turned on the lights in our room
and the nearby bathroom earlier, when it
was getting dark. They were both out.
I thought perhaps Pat had turned them
off. While it was on the colder side that
evening it was nothing a sweater would-
n’t handle.
Getting ready for bed the room began
to get cold. Very cold.
I found an electric space heater and
turned it way up. Atop the heater I found
a lone ladybug and wondered what it
was doing here this time of year. Shira
fell right out and I began to read of Burn Brae’s ghostly history.
About twenty minutes into it another beetle landed on the pillow next to
me, making enough noise that I heard it. I watched it walk past my eyeball.
Hmmm, these little bugs usually gather in the fall, not spring.
I looked up on the wall and there were a few others holding to the plaster
walls. A few pages later I glanced up to see dozens more.
Uh oh. Shira slept soundly on, oblivious to our imminent demise by tiny
ladybugs. How long and how many of them would it take to finish us off?
To be honest, right then, if I were to hear a chilling “get out”… I would
be, “Okay, you betcha, see ya, don’t let the door hit me on the ass on the way
out!”
All was quiet.
By this time I was sleepy and turned the light off and soon began to doze.
Sometime during the night I was awakened by the sound of classical music,
like someone had a radio on somewhere in the attic or far part of the house.
Whispers – did I hear whispers? Or, was my imagination and desire to have
something happen taking over. A dull roar, like a strong wind, built up around
the house and then just…stopped.
Ms. Kamil rubbed her cute nose and rolled over murmuring as if in a
dream. I did not turn the light back on to see if the beetles were still there.
They would be gone come the day’s light and I tried to slow my heart down
to get back to sleep.
In the morning Mike served a delicious breakfast of his farm fresh eggs,
sausage, fruit and coffee cake. Like it was a normal Wednesday – which to
everyone else it seemed it was.
Shira seemed a bit anxious to go, but I was more curious than before and
felt that given another night’s stay perhaps something even odder might come
about. Who knows.
What about you? Are you up for a night along this quiet country road in a
place that has more that its share of guests?
Burn Brae is considered one of the seriously haunted inns in the United
States. It’s just a few hours north of New York City, right above Route 97
along the Delaware River.
The Fraysses encourage riders, riding couples and small motorcycle groups
to come experience this classic mansion. Both dinner and breakfast are part
of the package and, even if you are not spooked, we know you will enjoy
this superb bit of New York grand mansion history. ~ Brian Rathjen
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 19
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Mantua dig65,000,000 YEARS AND A FEW DAYS…
Doctor Ken Lacovara is a patient guy.
It has been over an hour now and every few minutes someone – child or
adult – comes over and asks if what they have just found is a fossil.
Yes, no, maybe it is a piece of shark or turtle. He seems never to tire of
kids asking him what they have discovered.
Most of the time it was Rathjen jogging over with something in his hand.
“Hey Doc Lacovara, what ya think?”
A rock.
Shira sauntered over with what did look like a rock in her hand.
He smiles and said, “It is an oyster - a 65 million year old oyster.”
Damn. Shira was all smiles and Rathjen rolled his eyes, mumbled under
his breath, and picked another spot, away from the others, to dig.
We have gone to some far away and interesting places in and around this
Mysterious America but none really as
cool as this place.
You might think that this paleontolog-
ical site, which has yielded a constant
stream of fossils including a 7-foot-long
Thoracosaurus crocodile and other predators the size of a small bus, was to
be found in the Badlands, Wyoming or Patagonia, but the truth is that it is
right behind Lowes Home Improvement, next to the Chick-fil-A in Mantua,
New Jersey.
Seriously.
Did you know that the first dinosaur ever found – well, at least when it
wasn’t claimed to be a dragon - was found in New Jersey.
It was the summer of 1858 that Victorian gentleman and fossil hobbyist
William Parker Foulke was vacationing in Haddonfield, New Jersey, when
he heard that twenty years previous, workers had found gigantic bones in a
Page 20 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
Morton’s BMW Motorcycles PresentsDr. Seymour O’Life’s MYSTERIOUS AMERICA
local marl pit. Foulke spent his time directing a crew of hired diggers shin
deep in gray slime. Eventually he found the bones of an animal larger than
an elephant with structural features of both a lizard and a bird.
It was called the Hadrosaurus. The first nearly complete dinosaur skeleton;
an event that would rock the scientific world and forever change our view of
natural history.
When we visited there years back there was just a Historic Sign on the
road near the original marl pit. Now there is a full size Hadrosaurs and in-
formation center in downtown Haddonfield.
Meanwhile just a few miles from this, behind the Chik-fil-A and Lowes,
new and incredible fossils are being unearthed each day.
This site in a southwestern corner of the state is the only remaining mine
for greensand - a silt used for fertilizer and water softener.
It’s also the only access to the late Cretaceous period on the entire eastern
seaboard.
I was invited down on a warm Friday in May, bringing along both Rathjen
and Kamil who would not miss it for the world.
Riding down the gravel road to the actual dig I didn’t really know what to
expect; and when they walked us down to where Doctor Lacovaro was talk-
ing to some children I was blown away by the size of the dig itself.
It is fairly massive and more than impressive.
Scientists have been digging here for nearly a century, uncovering prehis-
toric sharks, crocodiles and some bigger, badder creatures.
A few years back the team uncovered an
ancient 800-pound sea turtle.
“If we were to excavate here five days a
week we could process an acre in 10 years
and this property is 65 acres, so we have
about 650 years of work left to do,” said
Lacovara. “Geologically, that’s no time at
all.”
That is the real interesting thing here.
Looking at the pit, your eyes running down
the side, you can see marl, dirt and the oc-
casional fossilized plant and then, about 65
million years back, the marl contains all
sorts of creatures.
Above it – nothing.
“We know all these animals died at the
same time because their bones are still put
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 21
together,” said Dr. Lacovara.
He would know, as this man
recently discovered the
Dreadnoughtus – the largest
dinosaur ever found in
Patagonia, Argentina.
Lacovara thinks those may
be the fossils of thousands of
animals that all died around
the time a meteor struck and
killed off 70 percent of life
on earth.
Inversand, the mine’s
owner, has been operating
the site since 1926, digging
greensand that was used in
munitions and fertilizer. For
years, the company has had
a close relationship with pa-
leontologists, alerting them
when they came across large
fossils, one of the biggest finds being in the 1960s, when workers came across
the skull of a Mosasaurus, a giant sea lizard, that now resides at the New Jer-
sey State Museum in Trenton.
Lacovara described the latter as
marine Komodo dragons as long as
a school bus with a 12-foot jaw and
a second set of teeth at the top of its
throat to keep prey from swimming
back out.
“It’s a sea monster, basically,” he
said. If you have seen the newest
film in the series - Jurassic World –
then you will know this bad boy.
Ownership might soon change as
Mantua official Michelle Bruner told us
that there is a deal in the works to have
the town purchase the land and she
hopes, with a little
help from the state
and private fund-
ing, that this place
will soon become one of the leading paleo-sites in the
nation with a Visitor’s Center and Museum of its own.
Currently Drexel University and Doctor Lacovara have
things well in hand.
Although the dig is closed to the public they do have
many school days when children and high schoolers
come down to spend a day sifting through the marl.
There is currently a 75-school waiting list.
If they find something and it’s small and fairly com-
mon (for paleontologists) they can keep it.
Shira kept her oyster and Rathjen swears he found a
piece of ancient turtle shell that he proudly keeps on his
desk.
Last year they held a Community Fossil Dig Day and
drew well over 1,000 visitors. This year’s Community
Fossil Dig Day is Sat., Sept. 26 from 10am to 4pm.
Reservations are required, so please get in touch before
showing up. Email Michelle Bruner mbruner@mantu-
atownship.com to be put on their invitation list for such
events.
As you can see, there is a huge interest about the
Mantua Dig and I can only hope that a few years from
now I can ride down to it and spend some time in the
new Visitor’s Center and say I remembered when.
Mantua is what Mysterious America is all about and
if you ever get the chance it would be very cool to ride
back some 65 million years ago.
Keep an eye on mantuatownship.com for upcoming
events and dates. O’Life out!
Page 22 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
ice creaM Bakery78 MAIN ST, BLOOMINGDALE, NJ 07403 • 973-283-8887 • CASH ONLY
This Ice Cream Run will be a bit different. While there will be great ice cream at the end, this
is more about the ride and the bonus at Ice Cream Plus.
I’ll be starting this at the Chatterbox Drive-In. Come on out any day, but on Thursdays they
have a great Bike Night, some really tasty food and terrific surroundings. After you’ve had your
fill of kicking tires and chowing down, mount up and point your wheels southeast. New Jersey
is chockfull of lakes large and small. This little 60-mile ride will bring you past some of them.
Just remember that these are lake communities, which are usually a bit on the overcrowded side,
so mind your speed and enjoy the scenery.
The first pretty lake you’ll pass is off Edison
Rd. This snaky piece of pavement will have
you thinking of your chocolate/vanilla twist
you’ll have soon. Another interesting feature
of this road is that Thomas Edison had a fac-
tory here; The first Edison, New Jersey: a ver-
itable city of workers and innovative rock
crushing machinery that used magnetic force
to separate iron from pulverized stone. None
of that is left, but what you can see is a monu-
ment to this forward-thinking individual (he was no Tesla…)
Continuing along, you come upon Canistear Reservoir. While man-made, it’s still a pretty pond of water on
a pretty little road. Just before you reach Waywayanda Park, you’ll see Highland Lake on your left. It’s one of
the larger lakes in the area, but not as busy as Upper Greenwood Lake, which you pass next. On your right
you’ll spy Pinecliff Lake before heading into some more twisty bits of asphalt. Before coming to your final
destination and the reward of cool, creamy ice cream, you’ll pass some more little water gems. Popping out on
Main St/Hamburg Turnpike, keep an eye out for a small gathering of stores on your left and a very well-done
military memorial park on your right. Before you head inside, take a moment to honor our fallen men and
women.
The Ice Cream Bakery is non-descript, a former Carvel with, yes, a twist. Outside you’ll find lost pet flyers,
local event listings and other mildly interesting papers taped to the window. The one piece of paper you should
pay attention to is the one stating ‘Enjoy some piano music with your ice cream.’ Entering, you’ll find the pre-
requisite ice cream coolers housing some very tasty flavors of Welsh Ice Cream, waffle cones with and without
sprinkles, plenty of tables and chairs and…a piano.
One of our Backroads peeps, Tom Kutlow, gave me the heads-up on the Ice Cream Bakery. Seems owners
Page 24 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
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Tony and Sabina Pineda bought the place from their relatives back in 2004,
shortly after coming to the United States from Manila (Tony is Philippino
and Sabina is Taiwanese; they met while Tony was working in Taipei). Sabina
quickly learned the business and Tony found a used piano for the back of the
shop.
Tony was a child prodigy pianist who learned to play at age 6, performing
all his life, but always as a sidebar to his career. During his 15 years working
for the U.S. Navy in Manila, he performed in officer’s clubs and five-star
hotels, and for the likes of President Eisenhower and the president of Taiwan.
He even performed on the Ed Sullivan Show.
Before ordering my double scoop of Bit O’Honey and Sea Salt Caramel,
I asked Sabina if Tony was available for a serenade. She popped her head in
the back and out he came, smiling away. His first tune was Gershwin, one
that I knew from growing up listening to show tunes. I think my smile was
bigger than his before the end of the tune. He asked if we had any requests
and I said whatever he played would be beautiful, and it was. Cole Porter
and classical came spilling out. “You buy an ice cream and I give you a per-
formance,” Tony said with a smile. He says that they are proud to be the only
ice cream parlor with a piano.
We sat through half a dozen impeccably performed pieces while slowly
eating our Welsh’s ice cream. Too soon, the ice cream was done and Tony
was, too. I told him I would have a hard time eating ice cream anywhere else
without his serenade. He told us to come back any time. I think we will.
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I don’t think that a year has gone bythat we have not featured a ride alongthe shores of the Chesapeake Bay,just a long day’s ride south of ourhome base in northern New Jersey.
We like the Bay – it’s peacefulness, the small towns, little ins and outs that
you will find if you are savvy enough to get off the main routes up and down
the Delmar peninsula and along the backroads of this region.
Shira and I had an anniversary approaching, and usually we find ourselves
on the road with a hundred or so others on a Backroads Spring Break Rally,
but being this was a bit special – 25 years of marital & riding bliss – we
moved things around, deciding to take a few days for a more private ride.
We had considered simply hopping on a jet and flying to St. Somewhere,
but the truth is we’d both rather be riding and a short few days down to The
Bay sounded like more fun – especially coming off this hard last winter.
We stitched together some miles along different roads and regions we knew
and borrowed the main jaunt south through Pennsylvania from this year’s
New Sweden 450 Rally.
Along the way we made time for one of Shira’s Ice Cream Runs at Long
Acres Modern Dairy in Barto. It seems that there is scientific fact that
you can have ice cream for breakfast on your anniversary.
I was unaware of it, but if we print it here in Backroads it must be true.
From this part of the day we motored south along the New Sweden route
which, much like its start a few weeks earlier in central PA, was full of twists,
turns and – if you looked for it – a bit of history.
Riding by Hopewell Furnace, near Elver-
ston, we made time to tour this Iron Plan-
tation. Hopewell is immaculately
maintained, a true national treasure and a
great way to look back at what went into
making this country a leader in the indus-
trial revolution. The giant water wheel,
some 22 feet high and five across, still
works today and the furnaces are still oper-
ational.
To be honest our visit to Hopewell was
serendipitous and ate up a few hours that
we hadn’t counted on – but that was the
beauty of a trip like this.
All we knew was that we had dinner
reservations at 7:30 at the Robert Morris
Inn in Oxford and as long as we got to
that table we were in good shape.
Page 26 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
The Road Fromthe White House
Continuing on we made our way south, past Brandy-
wine Creek and Chadd’s Ford where Washington took a
defeat at the hands of the British and General Howe.
We avoided any skirmish and chose instead to fight our
way through Newark, Delaware, a phalanx of college kids
and hipsters, their heavy beards and manbuns making
them look fearsome and fatuous.
Soon we broke though the trendiness and headed down
in Maryland on Route 213 along any number of tiny side
roads that stayed off the wretched US 50 south.
For those who have not ridden down this way, this part
of Maryland, like much of the state, is major farmland.
Soybean, wheat, hay, barley and tobacco can be found
along any of the roads, especially down along the Bay.
Here farm and sea offer a true magic combination.
You will eat well on the Chesapeake.
Just south of St. Michaels, the town that fooled the
British, you will find the very tiny burg of Oxford.
Lying on the mouth of the Tred Avon River, the town
was founded back in 1694, making it one of Maryland’s
oldest towns.
Oxford served as an important
port of entry for British trade ves-
sels in Colonial times. It flourished
in this capacity until the Revolution-
ary War brought an end to British
trade. The town declined for many
years until the oystering businesses
began to flourish in the late 1800’s.
Today yachting is the big thing
here, but we left ours at home.
Although you can reach Oxford
by land from the south, the best way
is to ferry it over from the north –
which is the direction from which
we arrived.
The Oxford – Bellevue Ferry is believed to be
the oldest privately operated ferry in continuous
service in the United States. The original ferry serv-
ice was established in 1683 and a service has run
here ever since.
We have crossed on this ferry many times; but
this would be the first time we would stop and
overnight in another “oldest” local icon – The
Robert Morris Inn.
Built back in 1710 this was once the home of
Robert Morris who gained fame as “Financier of
the Revolution.” General and later President
George Washington was a close friend and visited
Robert Morris often. In more recent times author
James Michener outlined his famous novel, Chesa-
peake, here. Now one of the Eastern Shore’s most
unique historic inn & restaurant under well known
Chef Mark Salter whose creations would make this
anniversary meal all that more special.
Once parked and showered we strolled the town
and, saving ourselves for the dinner, we just ac-
knowledged the Scottish Highland Creamery and
their homemade ice cream and concentrated on the
beautiful bay, scenery and sunset. Dinner was as
delectable as expected.
An old fashioned sleep in the nation’s oldest inn
was easy that night; although while we had our eyes
closed a cold front and rain rolled in from the west
and we awoke to low dreary 50’s and steady driz-
zle. Perfectly pleasant riding conditions.
Let’s take a ferry ride.
We headed north and crossed the Chesapeake
Bay on the ‘other’ big bridge and made a stop at
Annapolis Naval Academy.
Parking the motorcycles along a side street op-
posite the academy we could hear marching bands
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BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 27
playing and folks were pouring into the front gate. It was graduation week
and the Navy’s Parade of Colors was happening this morning.
The Color Parade is the oldest parade at the U.S. Naval Academy, a tradi-
tion which began in 1867. Midshipmen anticipate this parade as their last
full dress parade while at the academy. The highlight of the Color Parade is
the formal presentation of the color company pennant to the company that
has excelled in academics, athletics and professional accomplishments.
At the gate we were asked if we had tickets. No, not really – but we’re
Americans. That worked and they let us in for one of the most impressive
sights either Shira or I have seen. One cannot avoid getting welled up with
pride for our young midshipmen and women while watching this parade.
We made it a point to drop
by our original destination,
the Navy Academy Museum,
which was everything we
thought it would be and then
some. The history was deep
and intriguing and the model
ships, especially from the
French prisoners held in Great
Britain, truly stole the show
with a macabre backstory.
To pass the time, French
prisoners held in British dun-
geons during the Napoleonic
Wars would build intricate ship models from human and
animal bones. Now these creepy, yet stunning works of
art sell for tens of thousands of dollars at auctions. The
collection at the museum was a little bit of Mysterious
America and worthy of O’Life himself.
It was the beginning of the Memorial Weekend and
so we took the short walk to visit and pay respects to
the Crypt of John Paul Jones, our nation’s first Naval
hero.
It was over 100 years ago that the body of John Paul
Jones was discovered in a Parisian cemetery. President
Theodore Roosevelt sent four cruisers to bring it back
to the U.S., and these ships were escorted up the Chesa-
peake Bay by seven battleships.
On January 26, 1913 the remains of John Paul Jones
were laid to rest in the crypt of the U.S. Naval Academy
Chapel in Annapolis, MD. Today, a Marine honor guard
stands duty whenever the crypt is open to the public. It
is outstanding and humbling to see this, as is the entire
academy.
Being we were on our BMWs we swung by Bob’s
BMW and spent some time with Mr. Henig and crew
before riding over, almost next door it seems, to the
NSA.
Yes, that NSA. The National Security Agency and
their National Cryptologic Museum.
Located adjacent to NSA Headquarters, Ft. George
G. Meade, Maryland, the Museum houses a collection
of thousands of artifacts that collectively serve to sus-
tain the history of the cryptologic profession.
Spy stuff, who doesn’t love it? Well, at least when it
isn’t us that is being spied upon. But here at the museum
Page 28 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
we got to see the real deal from ancient times to the Cold
War to today’s present danger of cyber-spying. The National
Cryptologic Museum made for an excellent few hours and
got us ready for our next overnight - Washington D.C.
The steady drizzle had finally petered out and we rode
down in the sprawl of our nation’s capital running through
Georgetown and crossing over to Rosslyn, just a few blocks
from where Father Karras took a tumble down the demon
stairs.
Although we found Washington to be fairly easy to get
around on bike, it was better to safely stow the machines for
a few days and we did in the Hyatt’s underground garage –
across the street from where “Deep Throat” handed off tips
and information to Bob Woodward which would lead to Wa-
tergate and the end of a Presidency.
Being it was Memorial Day Weekend we thought it fitting to visit our National Cemetery at Arlington. The D.C. Metro
would serve to do this easily as it would everywhere we wanted to go this day.
The grounds were humbling to walk about, with 220,000 small American flags planted just the day before by members
of the “Old Guard” the Army’s Third Infantry Regiment. It’s a duty that the “Old Guard” has upheld for more than 60
years. All the graves, the history and stories were overwhelming.
At the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier we watched the guard walk the twenty-one steps, turn and walk twenty-one back.
The changing of the guard was solemn and respectful.
I thought we might see an osprey, the great sea hawk, while down along The Bay earlier, but from the Tomb of the Un-
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 29
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known Soldier I could see one of our new Osprey - the V-22 – lifting off
from down near the Potomac River; a nice site at such a solemn moment.
In a town that is known for so many incredible museums we had chosen
two that we really wanted to see. Sure there are the famed memorials and
monuments – Lincoln’s, Washington’s, Jef-
ferson’s, the Capital Building, the various
Smithsonian and that nice home over at 1600
Pennsylvania Avenue – but, we thought these
two more fitting of us – The International
Spy Museum and the Newseum.
We metroed over, making a quick stop by
Ford’s Theatre, where we all know President
Lincoln was assassinated and found lunch at
an outside café before heading to the Spy
Museum.
The Spy Museum was a far bit lighter than
the NSA Museum the previous day but kept
our spy theme going. At this time they were
celebrating Bond-James Bond, with a look at
his foils from all the films. Exquisitely Evil:
50 Years of Bond Villains! In addition to
everything that the International Spy Mu-
seum features they had over 100 artifacts
from various Bond villains.
They even had Jaw’s teeth.
James once said “They say
you’re judged by the strength
of your enemies.” Most of
these baddies were very,
very bad. I had to be dragged
from the Aston Martin to our
next stop – the Newseum.
This museum celebrates
our First Amendment – Con-
gress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibit-
ing the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the
press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the
Government for a redress of grievances. And here at the Newseum you will
find the most amazing collection of artifact expressing just this.
They have five full floors of press and media history and, that day had
opened a new exhibit “Reporting Vietnam.” There were hundreds of actual
newspaper covers showing the great moments in our history from the Hin-
denburg to the Apollo Moon landing to Nixon (the press still loves to talk
Nixon), The Bomb and 9/11.
The Pulitzer Prize Winning Photographs that both fascinated and chilled
us particularly mesmerized both Shira and me. Some of the images inspired
Page 30 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
and others were simply hard to view. This ability to charge emotions in the viewer is the reason they have
won this prestigious award.
We stayed until closing and then jumped back on the Metro and headed to Washington’s Navy Yard for
dinner on the water and then an evening with the Washington Nationals baseball team as we continued
our quest to visit each Major League Ball Park before we head to our own ninth inning.
Although as diehard Mets fans we wanted both teams to lose - the Nats beat the Phillies which, at the
time of this printing, was not a good thing. I did get to see Bryce Harper hit a long ball, just inches fair of
the left field foul pole. Who can’t like that? Always a good thing - unless Harper is playing the Mets!
We were very impressed with D.C – the ease of getting around, the city atmosphere without the New
York craziness and crowds. This is the way a city should be.
The next day we got an early start and around 7ish I pulled up to a curb within Nikon shot of the White
House.
I hopped off the bike for that digital moment and seconds later a Secret Service agent pulled up behind
me and turned on the blue lights.
I gave him thumbs up for blocking traffic for me.
He was not blocking traffic for me.
I got the shot and quickly moved on.
Our ride would take us north out of the D.C. metro area and into Maryland on, what I called (as we head
into the election)….
The Road From The White House!
Basically the TRFTWH was carefully scripted to avoid any big towns, highways and to go in search of
twisties, forests, farms and lakes and Amish.
It did just that as we quickly entered Maryland and vectored north.
Soon we were frollicking at speed along the open farmlands with great lines of sight and very little in
the way of other traffic.
The sun was shining, but the late spring air had a brisk
60ish about it.
We hooked a right along a road that had stood out to
me – Pretty Boy Dam Road.
Here was a winner, especially when we crossed the
dam itself.
Holding back some 30,000,000,000 (yes, that is tril-
lion) gallons of water of the Gunpowder River, it is what
feeds the city of Baltimore and surrounding areas with
fresh water.
It’s a great dam, offers marvelous scenery and does
have that odd name - Pretty Boy.
I wondered where that came from and why it re-
minded me of Keith Hernandez?
There are several stories concerning the origin of the
name “Prettyboy” – none of which have to do with a
suicidal Indian princess – the real story goes that some
time ago a farmer had a beautiful white colt named
“Pretty Boy”, which was the pride of the neighborhood.
The colt was out in the pasture bordering a stream that
was a tributary of the Gunpowder River. Suddenly a
thunderstorm arose and the colt was forced to seek shel-
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 31
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ter near the bank of the stream. Sadly, the colt fell into the stream and per-
ished. From that time on, in memory of the colt, the tributary was named
“Prettyboy”.
We kept heading in a northeasterly fashion until we crossed the
Mason/Dixon Line and rode into Pennsylvania.
Not far after crossing over the Susque-
hanna River, and just a tad further down
the road in the town of Holtwood, we
smelled smoky goodness wafting up
from a few very large barbeque pits
manned by a troop of Amish men. It was a bit past lunch, and we were fam-
ished after the morning’s ride, so we pulled into the parking lot of Holtwood
Supply and bought two chicken meals that came with chips, slaw and
Whoopie Pies (you know what a whoopee pie is, right? Well according to
Shira it is just the best thing the universe has ever created this weekend).
It really was an awesome roadside meal and it went just right with the fla-
vor of the entire ride.
Our run through the Keystone State moved along
quicker than I thought and we had one more thing to
discover on this Road From The White House and that
was Daniel Boone.
Did you know Mr. Boone, the great frontiersman and
Kentuckian, was born and raised in Pennsylvania?
We didn’t - but we have now spent some time at the
Boone Homestead outside Birdsboro and now we do.
We crossed near Bethlehem and from one high ridge
could see all the way to the Delaware Water Gap and
almost to home.
By later afternoon we crossed the Delaware River,
stopping at the Alpine Butcher in Blairstown for steaks
and brats for that night’s dinner, before winding our way
quickly up County Road 521 and home…. some 260 or
so miles from the White House.
We love the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis was truly in-
spiring and Washington D.C. was simply a blast and a
great city to park the bikes and visit for a few days.
We couldn’t ask for a nicer anniversary and the rid-
ing, museums and deep history made it even the better.
See ya on the road… wherever it comes from.
Robert Morris Inn • 314 N Morris St, Oxford, MD410-226-5111 • RobertMorrisInn.comNational Cryptologic Museum
8290 Colony Seven Rd, Annapolis Junction, MDwww.nsa.gov/about/cryptologic_heritage/museum/Newseum • 555 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Wash., DC
www.newseum.org • 202-292-6100Spy Museum • 800 F St NW, Washington, DC
www.spymuseum.org • 202 393-7798
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Words and images: Pamela Collins
We ride in an era of bigger is better, with many motorcycle
manufacturers hopping the bandwagon of supersized offer-
ings, stretching and increasing limits for everything from
horsepower and torque, to weight, to electronic gizmos.
But more, more, more doesn’t always appeal, and riders
longing for simpler times and machines can soothe their
cravings with a visit to the “Motorbikes for the Masses” ex-
hibit now going on at the Antique Automobile Club of Amer-
ica (AACA) Museum in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Here, the little guy, or rather machine, reigns supreme, as
the exhibit skips the stones of memory lane with its enchant-
ing parade of 30 scooters, mopeds and motorbikes. Quirky,
jelly bean-colorful and playfully appealing, these two-
wheeled tykes of the motorcycle world served a serious
transportation purpose.
“These machines represent the smallest, cheapest form of
legal motorized transportation you can get,” says Rob Kain,
the exhibit’s curator who also maintains Moped Central, a
website dedicated to vintage scooters and mopeds.
Following World War II, which decimated European
and Asian factories, the need rose for affordable trans-
portation. Now forbidden to build planes, former air-
craft factories turned to manufacturing these easy to
build motorcycle miniatures, creating much needed
jobs and providing mobile freedom for the public.
According to Kain, the height of popularity for
“scootering” came in the late 1950’s, as the public, es-
pecially in urban areas, appreciated the scooter’s low
cost, reliability, maneuverability, and parking
prowess…qualities today’s scooter owners still prize.
Kain attributes the Internet
with reigniting the spark of
interest in vintage ma-
chines, because it made
parts and pieces for the
bikes easier to locate, and
therefore maintain.
The exhibit displays an eclectic array of makes,
models, styles, vintages and country of origin that
conjure smiles while imagining the miles of history
these time-travelers have ridden. Some wear shiny
restorations while others sport the patina of years,
each claims its individual, interesting tale but as an
entirety, the exhibit visually relates the evolution of
the little motorcycle.
Model years range from the display’s oldest
scooter—a 1920 Briggs & Stratton, to a 2002 Cyk-
lon-Berstal Solex S3800. Never heard of that one?
How about Rixe Export, Miele, Cazenave or
Motorbikes for the MassesNew Museum Exhibit Focuses on Motorcycling’s Smaller Sibling
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 33
Jawa…these unfamiliar names stand alongside the more
familiar Vespa, Whizzer, Cushman, Sears Roebuck and
Harley-Davidson (yes, they imported Italian Aermacci
scooters under their brand name).
You’ll find a 1956 Miele, a German scooter company
with origins dating to 1898 when it originally manufac-
tured cream separators (later it made washing machines
and still makes vacuum cleaners). The 1969 Lambretta,
made by the Italian manufacturer Innocenti, born during
the race to put the first person on the moon, looks like a
scooter George Jetson might have ridden (it flopped in
sales). A 1956 Allstate Cushman, made in Lincoln, Ne-
braska and sold by Sears Roebuck (which rebadged all
its scooters with the name “Allstate”) resembles our more
traditional ideal of scooter history, while the 1920 Briggs
& Stratton, from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with its 2-horse-
power 4-cycle direct- drive motor, decompression-used-
as-braking, and top speed of 25 miles per hour, claims the
title of the oldest known American-built scooter and first
step-thru scooter.
Some of these scoots took their blessed time running the
roads while others managed speeds whizzing up to seventy
miles per hour, but Kain says speed and horsepower never
were calling cards for these bikes. Jed Rapoport of Allen-
town, Pennsylvania, a vintage two-wheel collector and
owner of the 1920 Briggs & Stratton, agrees. He says scoot-
ers and mopeds “have an approachability, they’re less in-
timidating, they’re less expensive and have a ‘cool’ factor.”
This line-up of senior-aged rolling stock might be vintage
in age, but maintain relevance still to this day. Funky fair-
ings, candy colors, and donut-sized wheels aside, they en-
dear themselves to us not so much for how they look, or for
what they’ve done, but for what they promise.
Fun.
Says Kain, “When you’re riding one you feel like you’re
breaking the law. Everybody loves them.”
The Motorbikes for the Masses exhibit runs until October
11, 2015. For more information, visit the AACA Museum
website at www.aacaMuseum.org or call 717-566-7100.
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knowledgeable staff than ours. We’re happy to
help you find the parts you’ve been looking for.
Online Shopping AvailableCheck our catalog pages - if you don’t see what you want,
give us a call or stop in - we’re always ready to help!
Circle CycleFor the discriminating rider.
Page 34 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
NEW GIVI V56 MAXIA 4 MONOKEY® TOP CASEGIVI has introduced the new V56 MAXIA 4. The new King of the MAXIA Series features a new design and adds
extra volume (for a total 56 liter capacity) to claim the top spot in the GIVI Touring range. The large capacity of
the V56 MAXIA 4 is enough to hold two full-face helmets, even modular/flip-up. Many aspects of the case have
been improved, including the latching system, the hinges and the overall weight balance.
At the moment the V56 is available in 4 standard color combinations with prices ranging from $399 to $430.
Like any case in the MONOKEY® Series, all 4 editions of the V56 MAXIA 4 require a bike specific mount. Contact
your local dealer or log onto giviusa.com for more information, specific make/model applications and availability.
VICTORY MOTORCYCLES REVEALS ROAD-LEGAL ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE – THE EMPULSE TTBuilding on the innovative design and engineering that produced the fastest
U.S. electric motorcycle at the 2015 Isle of Man TT Zero race, Victory Mo-
torcycles has introduced the 2016 Empluse TT, the first all-electric addition
to the Victory lineup.
The Victory Empulse TT is a fully electric road-legal streetbike that is as ca-
pable of carving tight lines on twisting roads as it is powering the daily com-
mute.
Building on Victory Motorcycles’ focus on performance, the Empulse TT fea-
tures a sportsbike-style aluminum beam-frame, adjustable suspension and
strong brakes. With advanced technology this unique new motorcycle delivers
great performance, zero-emission output and has a torquey electric motor.
“We have always been known for great handling and power, so the Empulse TT is an ideal fit in the expanding Victory
lineup,” said Motorcycle Product Director Gary Gray.
“The Empulse TT was developed primarily as an electric motorcycle delivering a sporty ride,” said Victory Electric Product Manager Joshua Katt. “With dual
ride modes – ECO and SPORT – to choose from and the addition of a gearbox, the Empulse TT is a versatile motorcycle that can be used for impressively sporty
riding or as a casual commuter.”
The key features that allow Empulse TT to deliver a sporty riding experience include: fully adjustable suspension featuring a single rear shock and inverted
front forks; dual-disk front brakes; lightweight cast aluminum wheels; the greatest lean angle in the electric class; and a sportsbike-style riding position.
The Empulse TT shares some DNA with the original Brammo Empulse R motorcycle. Victory has been working with Brammo since 2011, but in January 2015
Victory’s parent company, Polaris Industries, acquired Brammo’s motorcycle assets. Since then, Victory engineers worked with the Brammo product team to
achieve improvements in battery capacity, display function and handling.
The new Victory Empulse TT electric motorcycle is scheduled to be available for purchase in the United States in late 2015. Victory is in the process of
determining global demand for the bike before announcing its sales plan for the EMEA region.
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 35
Hudson Valley Motorcycles179 North Highland Ave, Ossining, NY
914-762-2722HVMOTORCYCLES.COM
Long Island Yamaha67 North Broadway • Route 107 • Hicksville, NY
www.LIYamaha.com • 516-935-6969
Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, gloves and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dan-gerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding theMSF course, please call 1-800-446-9227. ©2014 Yamaha Motor Corporation. U.S.A. All rights reserved. • YamahaMotorsports.com
THE MOST VERSATILE
SPORT TOURER.Introducing the most performance,power, versatility and value ever packedinto one motorcycle. From commutingand exploring backroads, to touring theopen road and enjoying long sport touradventures, the all-new FJ-09 does it allin comfort and style with Yamaha’s un-mistakable reliability and performance.
2015 FJ-09
P R O D U C T S P O T L I G H T
Even though this is the September issue, there is still plenty of hot and
muggy air coming our way before fall.
This summer when things got really sticky, or we were in a region that
seemed to be embracing the heat, I went for the Airglide 4 jacket from
Olympia.
This three–layer protective system utilizes a few different layers to make
it an all around useful jacket, especially in the warmer seasons or terrains.
Mine came in a vibrant high-viz neon yellow and black allowing for plenty
of conspicuity. It is also available in black and pewter.
The rugged outshell is constructed of authentic Cordura fabric with bal-
listic nylon mesh panels for maximum airflow.
Unlike some of my other jackets the Airglide is very light in weight and
the mesh really lets in much needed cooling air, especially when riding in
temperatures that sometimes quickly rise to triple digits.
Still, the jacket offers plenty of abrasion resistance and has a more serious
and higher quality feel to it than other light-weight mesh jackets I have seen
on the market.
The Airglide 4 has two zippered chest and side entry pockets that offer se-
cure storage for personal items, although I found the inside wallet pocket to
be a bit hard to use.
For added safety, 3M Scotchlite piping is located at the side arms, chest,
back, and collar. Add that with the high-viz color and I really stood out in a
trafficky crowd.
The Airglide 4 has a waterproof and breathable liner jacket cut in rugged
rip stop nylon, which added a great cocoon of warmth on some mountain
passes as well as stylish around town wear when off the bikes in the evening.
If things got really chilly there is also a third layer with authentic Thermo-
lite insulation. This zip in, zip out feature ensures riding comfort through a
wide range of temperatures and weather conditions and on both sides of sum-
mer.
Most important was that the Airglide 4 jacket is a very comfortable gar-
ment and that all day comfort is a big plus in my book.
Its small weight and easy stowability allow me to take it along as a second
jacket and, as I said, I was very impressed on how visible I was wearing it.
Along with it I wore a pair of Olympia’s Airglide 3 pants, that also offered
a great deal of cooling air along with the protection of both Cordura material
and hip and knee padding and armor.
Two front zipper pockets and two rear snap pockets offer extra storage for
personal items. Three tier adjustable knee armor positions, stretch waist pan-
els plus our EZ hem bottom detail allow riders to achieve a customized fit.
If the rain and cold creeps in, these pants are also
equipped with a wind and waterproof liner.
There are also women’s versions and sizes of this ex-
cellent protection. The fit and cut of the women’s gear
is some of the finest on the market, offering a true
‘women’s fit’ in a world of men’s gear.
The Airglide 4 Jacket lists for $289 and the Airglide
3 Pants for $229 and can be found at local dealers that
carry the Olympia line or you can log onto their website
at olympiamotosports.com. ~ Brian Rathjen
P R O D U C T R E V I E W
OLYMPIA AIRGLIDE MESH TECH GEAR • KEEPING COOL ON THE HOT RIDES
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6 TYPES OF DEADLY DRIVERS AND HOW TO AVOID THEMVictor Cruz
“The wise man avoids evil by anticipating it.” (Quote by - Publilius Syrus)
With the right mindset, you can make riding a motorcycle less a game of chance. Develop habits that avoid
potential mishaps as you fly down the road by the seat of your bike. Just as you can help avoid a nail by riding
in the left or right wheel track, make anticipation your guardian angel. Have a safe ride and forecast the future
while you’re at it. You saying it’s possible to tell the future when you’re out riding? Yes, by anticipating what
fools do next.
Anticipation is the reverse side of the same coin as temptation. You never met a temptation you didn’t like.
Anticipation is its harder-working cousin. For the most part, it fools you. Better to be prepared in advance than
to be taken by surprise. Practice mindful riding. Mindfulness is distraction free. Staying in the present, living
in the moment. Make a game out of anticipating what drivers do next. That kind of proactive mindfulness
primes the brain for vigilant thinking.
Here are 6 types of deadly drivers and how to anticipate them.
1. anticiPate the BreakersOn a crazy four-lane highway with drivers on edge jockeying for position, anticipation is your best friend.
Look far enough ahead. I’m sure everybody has seen the unexpected. I once saw a ladder and an upside down
picnic table. When you spot it far enough ahead, you can call yourself lucky. Making a habit of this is smart
riding. Anticipate the breakers. I once saw a line of cars way ahead apply their brakes. The Range Rover
directly in front of me didn’t get the memo. I veered away just in time to watch him slam his brakes and skid
sideways. Probably pooped his pants, that guy.
2. anticiPate the rusherYou’re in the fast lane of a 3-lane highway minding your ride when a fool comes
charging up fast on your right. He comes up so fast that he starts tail-gating the guy
in front of him. Of course the rusher is in a rush and it’s only a matter of time before
he pulls out in front of you, wanting to change into your fast lane. Don’t compete.
Ease up on the throttle, yield to the reckless rusher the space he wants.
3. anticiPate the PasserYou’re cruising a 50 mph secondary with lots of big rigs. Someone is always in
a hurry. Not just you. A passer is waiting to pass a 16-wheeler so what does he do?
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He tailgates. These trucks can be so wide that it’s hard to see around them. As a
rider, you should move to the right-wheel track whenever you see a large or tall
vehicle coming your way. Not just to avoid the wind blast, but the impatient passer
who may not see you if you’re riding in the left-wheel track.
4. the MiscalculatorsThis is an old story but worth repeating. Motorcycles occupy a very narrow band-
width. Compared to cars and trucks, we are like stick figures. Because of our skinny
profile, to careless drivers we appear far away and slow-moving. Essentially, we’re
invisible. Anticipate the miscalculator. A driver who’s all too eager to pull out in
front of you from a side street or parking lot will look to his left and see this stick
figure approaching. Little does he know that you’ve got 150 horses between your
legs and you’re riding 15 mph over limit. If you are mindful, you’ll be in the left-
wheel track where the miscalculator can spot you sooner.
5. the texterPossibly the most distracted driver on the road. Talking on phones while driving
makes you four times as likely to crash, and texting while driving increases your
chances of a crash by up to 23 times, says the National Safety Council. All ages do
it. Millennials text each other while in the same vehicle. While most states (44) ban
texting while driving, no state bans all cell phone use for all drivers. New Hamp-
shire, Vermont and Connecticut are the only New England states that ban hand-
held phone use. RI is up next. New York and NJ have banned hand-held phones
for years. Despite the laws, you still see Texting Toms oblivious to bikers. Antici-
pate the texting head. It bobs up and down.
6. old car driversYou know ‘em when you see ‘em. The car that somehow miraculously passes
state inspection. Florida and 10 other states require no annual safety or emissions
inspection. You see all sorts of shit boxes on the road driving lopsided from blown-
out suspensions. Mufflers missing or dragging. Stinky blue smoke — the sign of
burnt-out valves. Probably brake pads from the 1980s. And what about vintage 60s
muscle cars that have no hydraulic steering or brakes. Ever think of that? Anticipate
(and steer clear away from) vintage cars and shit boxes. I like to make a habit of
surveying drivers in relation to their cars. Late model Asian imports tend to carry
the youngest drivers, just as late model American boats tend to carry Q-tips.
Page 38 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
JOIN TODAY
Membership $25 • Includes Member Benefitswww.MotorcycleSafetyProgram.org
Promoting MotorcycleAwareness & the Benefits
of Rider Education
3RD ANNUAL MOTORCYCLE FILM FESTIVAL • SEPT. 23-27The Motorcycle Film Festival (www.motorcyclefilmfestival.com) is in the
midst of the largest motorcycle-centered creative boom since the 1970s.
Today, motorcycle fabricators have in-house filmmakers and every moto-
event from Biarritz to Melbourne is captured from every angle by thousands
of lenses. From our desks at work, we re-live the adventures of fellow riders
on YouTube and gasp at images of metal masterworks from craftsmen living
continents away. Major studios and lone-wolf amateurs are once again turn-
ing en masse to the motorcycle as the stars and foils in their films.
After a successful second year, the 3rd annual Motorcycle Film Festival
will be held September 23–27, 2015 at Nihil Gallery (251 Douglas Street)
in Brooklyn, New York. The festival will feature official screenings of short
and feature-length documentaries and narratives alongside more experimen-
tal films. Other events include screenings of classic films, filmmaker talks,
an art exhibition, bands, and more! On the final day, a distinguished panel of
judges comprising filmmakers, writers, custom builders, and esteemed mo-
torcycle enthusiasts will select winners from each film category. A full list
of films, filmmakers, and schedules can be found at http://www.motorcycle-
filmfestival.com/ticketsschedule/.
Returning judges include Paul D’Orleans a.k.a. The Vintagent; JP of The
Selvedge Yard; Stacie B. London of Triple Nickel 555 and East Side Moto
Babes; Ultan Guilfoyle (Guggenheim Museum’s Art of the Motorcycle),
Shinya Kimura (Chabott Engineering), and Roland Sands (Roland Sands De-
sign). We’re just as thrilled to welcome our new judges for this year: Melissa
Holbrook Pierson (author), Mark Hoyer (editor-in-chief, Cycle World), Ma-
rina Cianferoni (historian, author), Henry Cole (writer, director, actor), Bryan
Carrol (filmmaker). Full bios are available at: http://www.motorcyclefilm-
festival.com/judges.
The Motorcycle Film Festival was conceived in New York City by a group
of motorcyclists and independent filmmakers. The goal is to provide a home
for motorcycle films from around the world and to give moto and film en-
thusiasts a reason to gather, discuss and celebrate our favorite subject.
NO FREE AUTOBAHN RIDE
The European Commission is considering a legal challenge against Ger-
many over proposed road tolls that some believe violate the European
Union’s anti-discrimination laws by targeting foreign motorists.
Germany’s Parliament approved the tolls in March, but German President
Joachim Gauck has not signed them into law. The tolls would force foreign
drivers to pay as much as $143 a year to drive on German roads.
The American Motorcyclists Association remains concerned that U.S. mil-
itary personnel stationed in Europe would be directly and unfairly affected
by this toll. In a letter to U.S. ambassador to Germany, John B. Emerson, the
AMA pointed out that the NATO Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) gov-
erns the treatment of military personnel.
In an April 22 response, liaison officer Glendon Pitts stated that the lower
house of the German parliament passed an amended draft of the bill that ex-
empts U.S. forces covered under SOFA from the toll obligations.
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 39
INDUSTRY INFOBITES News from the Inside
DOUG DANGER BREAKS KNIEVEL’S RECORD
WITH 22 CAR JUMP AT STURGIS
At this year’s Sturgis Rally, motorcycle daredevil Doug Danger pulled off
a jump that even the most famous of all daredevils, Evel Knievel, couldn’t
quite accomplish. A record-breaking rally crowd cheered as Danger soared
over 22 cars and touched the landing ramp with just inches to spar. Riding
Knievel’s own 1972 XR-750, Danger roared down a dirt path between
packed campers, under a steel bridge, up an engineered ramp and over 22
cars set along the
main street through
the center of the
Sturgis Buffalo
Chip amphitheater.
The back tire of the
40-year-old Harley
bit the edge of the
landing ramp and
stuck after a quick
bounce. Danger
just barely missed
the edge of the
decking surrounding the
Chip’s famed Top Shelf
bar where onlookers
watched the daring feat
from just 20 feet away.
Evel Knievel, the undis-
puted king of stunt show-
manship, attempted this
jump on Sept. 1, 1972 in
Monroe, WA. His crew
warned that the bike
would not attain the speed
needed to clear the distance, but because Knievel insisted on doing the jump,
they built a safety ramp over the last three cars. Knievel bounce-landed on
the safety ramp and left defeated. More than 40 years later, Doug Danger
was able to successfully clear the same jump on Knievel’s own bike.
“This is the best day of my life,” exclaimed Danger just minutes after com-
pleting the jump. “That bike landed like a ton of bricks, and I wasn’t sure I
was going to be able to keep it from bouncing down the ramp, but I did it! I
broke Evel’s record and cleared those 22 cars.”
WAYNE RAINEY TO BE HONORED
Wayne Rainey, three-time Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme
500cc Grand Prix World Champion and two-time American Motorcyclist As-
sociation Superbike Champion, will be honored as an AMA Motorcycle Hall
of Fame Legend at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Saturday, Oct. 17, in Orlando, Fla.
The induction ceremony is taking place in conjunction with the American
International Motorcycle Expo at the Orange County Convention Center.
Tickets to the induction ceremony are available now at www.motorcyclemu-
seum.org. Regular entry is $25 per person. VIP tickets that include an exclu-
sive reception, reserved seating and AIMExpo admission are $90 per person.
Rainey, who himself was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame
in 1999, will be honored along with the current class of inductees. The Class
of 2015 includes road
racing champion John
Kocinski, former
H a r l e y - D a v i d s o n
CEO Richard Teer-
link, off-road racing
champion Rodney
Smith, entrepreneur
and industry patron
John Parham, dirt
tracker Alex Jor-
gensen and longtime
Page 40 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
Photos: Sturgis Buffalo Chip
Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A. race team manager Keith McCarty.
AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Legends are previous inductees into the
Hall of Fame whose lifetime accomplishments are showcased as part of the
annual induction ceremony of new Hall of Famers.
AMA DELIVERS 30,000 SIGNATURES
The AMA delivered 29,379 signatures to the U.S. Environmental Protec-
tion Agency, along with a stern message in opposition to the agency’s pro-
posal to increase the amount of ethanol in the nation’s fuel.
“The Renewable Fuel Standard proposal announced on May 29 by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency would increase the risk of inadvertent mis-
fueling for motorcyclists and all-terrain-vehicle owners by forcing the wide-
spread availability of higher-ethanol fuel blends, such as E15,” said Wayne
Allard, AMA vice president for government relations.
The EPA proposed setting the Renewable Fuel Standard for 2014 at the
levels that were actually produced and used, which totaled 15.93 billion gal-
lons. But for 2015, the standard rises to 16.3 billion gallons. And for 2016,
the total increases again, to 17.4 billion gallons.
“By increasing the amounts of ethanol into America’s gasoline market-
place, the EPA will force the fuel marketplace to exceed the blend wall by
hundreds of millions of gallons,” Allard said.
The blend wall is the point at which no more ethanol can be blended with-
out creating higher blends like E15 and above.
“By forcing higher-ethanol fuel blends into the marketplace, the E10 most
Americans currently rely on for their vehicles could become less available
and gasoline with no ethanol may become virtually unavailable,” Allard said.
None of the estimated 22 million motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles cur-
rently in use in the United States are certified by the EPA to use fuels con-
taining more than 10 percent ethanol. Inadvertent misfueling may cause
engine or fuel system damage and void the manufacturer’s warranty.
MIC REPORTS MOTORCYCLE SALES UP THROUGH JUNE 2015The Motorcycle Industry Council has released its sales figures through
June 2015, and sales are up. Overall, total motorcycle sales have reached
56,508 units for the month and are now at 277,336 units year-to-date. This
represents a 7% increase compared to sales in June 2014 and a 5.1% increase
compared to YTD figures recorded at this point last year.
The sales figures are determined based on the performance of MIC mem-
ber manufacturers (BMW, Can-Am, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda,
Kawasaki, KTM, the Piaggio Group, Victory, Suzuki, Triumph and Yamaha).
NEW JERSEY LAW LIMITS BLACK BOX ACCESS
Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey has signed into law A. 3579, which
limits access to data recorded by vehicle “Back Boxes.”
The new law states that all the recorded information and data is the prop-
erty of the owner or lessee of the vehicle or motorcycle.
This data, originally designed for repair facilities and maintenance, can
only be accessed by authorities and law enforcement by court ordered war-
rant issued by a judge of the Superior Court.
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 41
September brings falling leaves and autumn rains,making for a slippery riding situation. Be aware.
EVERY MONTH - WEATHER PERMITTINGEvery Monday • McCobb’s Bike Night, 2391 Hamburg Tpke, Wayne, NJ • 6-10pm
Every Tuesday • The Ear - Spring St, NYC. Come meet some fellow riders and dosome benchracing or whatever. 8pm-ish
Last Wednesday • Tramontin Over the Hump Bike Night. 6-8pm. Live music, greatfood, in-house specials. Exit 12 Rte. 80, Hope NJ • 908-459-4101 • TramontinHD.com
Every Thursday • Bike Night at the Chatterbox Drive-In, Rtes. 15/206, Augusta, NJ.Tire kicking, good food and friends • www.chatterboxdrivein.com
Every Saturday • 9am for coffee and bagels. KSU 10am. Return for FREE food andmusic. Proper attire MUST be worn! No shorts or sneakers. • Bergen Harley-David-son, 124 Essex St, Rochelle Park, NJ • 201-843-6930 • www.BergenHarley.com
Every Saturday • Tramontin Harley-Davidson Biker BBQ with FREE Hot Dogs whilethey last. 12-3pm weather permitting. Exit 12 Route 80 Hope, NJ • www.Tramon-tinHD.com • 908-459-4101
Every Sunday • Tramontin Harley-Davidson Rise + Shine Breakfast 9-11am. Specialofferings by Chefs Catering. Exit 12 Route 80 Hope, NJ • www.TramontinHD.com• 908-459-4101
Thru Oct. 11, 2015 • AACA Museum’s ‘Motorbikes for the Masses’. 161 Museum Dr,Hershey, PA (1 mile from HerseyPark just off Rte. 39 West) • 717-566-7100 •www.AACAMuseum.org
AUGUST29 • Maghogomock Hook + Ladder 2nd Annual Benefit Ride, Port Jervis, NY. Signin: 25 Orange St, Port Jervis, NY 9-10am. $20 rider/$15 passenger. Rural ride, goodfood, music, lots of prizes and 2015 Harley Fatboy drawing • 201-481-4082
29 • Bergen County Harley-Davidson 1st ever Scavenger Hunt Run to benefit Lib-erty Run Foundation. Sign in: 9-10:15am • 124 Essex St, Rochelle Park, NJ. $15rider/$10 passenger. 201-843-6930 • BergenHarley.com
SEPTEMBER6 • Dawn Patrol MC Labor Day Weekend Fun Run (Raindate Sept. 13). Sign in:Bradley Gardens Firehouse, 24 Old York Rd, Bridgewater, NJ 9am-noon with cof-fee/Donuts. End site: Dawn Patrol MC Clubhouse, 106 Robert St, Bradley Gardens,(Bridgewater), NJ. $20/pp incl. homemade food and beverages, scenic route (limedot & route sheet) music, door prizes, trophies and fun • 908-722-4357 • 732-356-5838 • clubhouse 908-722-4664 • www.dawnpatrolmc.com
6 • Backroads ‘Take Me Out to the Ballgame’ Ride. We’ll meet at 10am for a leisurelyride through the countryside to Skylands Stadium,Augusta, NJ for a friendly ri-
valry game between the Sussex County Miners vs. Rockland Boulders. Tickets$10pp from box office or call 973-940-0222 (mention Backroads). More to come.
11-14 • 33rd Annual Green Mountain Rally hosted by BMW Motorcycle Owners ofVermont. BMW Riders and their guests are invited to Camp Thorpe, Goshen, VT(off Brandon Gap Rd/Rte. 73) for home cooking, great Vermont tours - Gap and GSRides), door prizes, awards and much more. $55 before Sept. 1/$70 after. Limitedto 250. Limited cabin space available. For more info and registration visit vtbmw-mov.org/rally or email [email protected].
13 • Rutt’s Hutt Ripper Run sponsored by FW Speer Yamaha • sign in: 9am • call forfull details (973) 778-6256
17-21 • Backroads Fall Foliage 2015. 4-night road trip to Virginia/West Virginia. 1stnight: George Washington Hotel, Winchester, VA • nights 2 + 3: Isaac Jackson Hotel,Elkins, WV • 4th night: Shippen Place Hotel, Shippensburg, PA. Full info: www.back-roadsusa.com/rallies.html. As always, gathering is free, just pay your own wayand have a great time. Questions? [email protected] • 973-948-4176
19 • Bob's BMW Motorcycles Oktoberfest & Open House 9A-4P. 10720 Guilford Rd,Jessup, MD • 301-497-8949 • www.bobsbmw.com
19 • Newburgh NY Swap Meet • 8am-3pm • 21 Liberty St, Newburgh, NY
23-27 • 3rd Annual Motorcycle Film Festival, Nihil Gallery, 251 Douglas Street,Brooklyn NY. Full schedule and chosen film list: www.motorcyclefilmfestival.com
24-27 • Rolling Thru America - Pennsylvania. Brought to you by the folks who pro-duce Americade, an intimate tour through beautiful Pennsylvania. Visitwww.RollingThruAmerica.com for full details and to register. Limited space.
26 • Forever Friends Motorcycle Awareness Charity Bike Run & Event in lovingmemory of Mark Khoury & Jeremy Ramirez. Skylands Stadium, 94 ChampionshipDr (Rte. 565), Augusta, NJ. Sign in: 9-11am; Ride 11:30-1:30pm; Event doors opennoon-5pm. $20/pp incl. food, vendors, tricky tray, 50/50, live music and [email protected] for more info.
OCTOBER3 • Liberty Harley-Davidson Fall Open House. Food, beverages, live music andmore. 12 W Milton Ave, Rahway, NJ • 732-381-2400 • www.LibertyHarley.com
4 • 8th Anual Veterans Memorial Car, Truck & Bike Show. Woodbourne VeteransMemorial park, 145 Sherman Ridge Rd, Wantage Township, NJ • 11am-4pm. Ben-efits Operation Comfort Warrior. For more information: 973-352-9203 • wan-tagerec.com/veterans_memorial/car_show/car_show.htm
11 • Ramapo Motorcycle Club Fall Foliage Tour. Sign in/Endsite: Rhodes North Tav-ern, 40 Orange Tpke (Rte. 17) Sloatsburg, NY 9am-mid-afternoon. Benefits Valerie
UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR What’s Happening
Page 42 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
Fund for Childhood Cancer Research. A guided or self-guided tour featuring thebest autumn pallet Mother Nature can provide along some of the Hudson Valley’smost interesting roads. For more info: ramapomc.org • [email protected]
17 • Morton’s BMW Motorcycles Oktoberfest Open House featuring British worldtraveler and auther Sam Manicom’s ‘Into Africa’ presentation and book signingalong with demo rides, door prizes, great food, fantastic sales and much more.5099A Jefferson Davis Hwy, Fredericksburg, VA • 540-891-9844 • www.mortons-bmw.com
18 • 27th Annual Harvey C. Irons Make-A-Wish Ride hosted by the Blue KnightsNJIX. Sign in with coffee/donuts: Chatterbox Drive-In, Rte. 15/206, Augusta, NJ 9-
11am; KSU 11am. $20/pp benefits Make-A-Wish Foundation of NJ. Endsite: Sky-lands Stadium, Rte. 565, Augusta, NJ with entertainment, vendors, lunch andmore. email: [email protected] • bknjix.org • 973-729-4072
18 • 10th Annual Fall Motorcycle Classic Bike Show and Run to benefit Tomorrow’sChildren Fund. For complete details please see page 25
NOVEMBER28 • Cross Country Powersports Fall Open House, 911 Middlesex Ave, Metuchen,NJ • 732-635-0094 • www.crosscountrypowersports.com
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 43
UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR
Like pretty much every
piece of riding apparel,
gloves have undergone
years of evolution and
development, so much so
that the breed offers lev-
els of protection, comfort
and durability that our
foreriders could only
dream of. Racer Gloves
is the sole US distributor
of an Austrian motorcy-
cle apparel company that
has been around since the
1990s. Their products are
a great example of the
state of play in premium
glove creation, and above
all they promote getting a glove that fits like a glove (Sorry. Had to be said). In fact, the company claims
they make “The best-fitting motorcycles you can buy.” Is this true? I shall share my findings.
Racer’s hi-tech gloves are not just made for track duty; they have categories including Adventure, Race,
Sport and Winter on the men’s side, and Race, Summer, Winter and Waterproof on the women’s side. I pro-
cured a pair of Grip Gloves from the Sport category, as during most of the year I prefer a stout racing-style
glove for everyday wear. The Grip gloves are light in weight (my size large were 4.3 ounces per glove), but
very complex in construction with a variety of specialized materials to maximize protection, comfort and
dexterity. This starts with a goatskin chassis and palm base, and very trick materials are added in key areas,
such as Pittards (a specialized leather manufacturer) leather patches, as well as hard knuckle protection cov-
ered in leather. SuperFabric (another specialized manufacturer that makes abrasion-resistant fabric) is found
on fingertips and the palm for yet additional protection. Perforated leather is used on fingers and the gauntlet
for ventilation, with further venting on the top of the hand. The gloves secure with hook and loop around
the gauntlet and a further strap at the base of the wrist. I seriously doubt they’d work themselves off in a
tumble.
My size large fit very snug and yet were very comfortable, with excellent dexterity and no annoying pres-
sure points. The gloves have become even more comfy as they have broken-in, and ventilation in these sum-
mer months has been excellent. Strips of reflective material aid nighttime conspicuity, and in a very short
time I’ve become quite pleased with the gloves’ performance. Oh, and they do fit really well, and as the
company prides itself on this fact I’m sure they’d be happy to guide you through the fitting process that’s
presented on their website to insure you get the proper gloves for you.
The Racer Grip Gloves come in Black or White & Black, in sizes S-4XL, and they are priced at $159.99
racerglovesusa.com. (408) 852-0700. ~ Bill Heald
NAME________________________________________________________________________
ADDRESS ____________________________________________________________________
CITY/STATE/ZIP ________________________________________________________________
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Page 44 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
PRODUCT REVIEWRACER GLOVES USA GRIP GLOVES
BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 45
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M O T O R C Y C L E M A R K E T P L A C E ALL THAT GOOD STUFF
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BACKROADS • SEPTEMBER 2015 Page 47
M O T O R C Y C L E M A R K E T P L A C E ALL THAT GOOD STUFF
320 Front Street, Belvidere, NJ • 908-475-2274 • www.thisilldous.com
Open Daily for Breakfast and Beyond • 7am to 4pm • Sunday 7am to 1pm
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Worth the ride from anywhere!
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Travel along the scenicbackroads of the Delaware river.
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‘50s-Style Drive-In RestaurantFull and Varied Menu
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The Boat House RestaurantPerfect in Any Season
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Call forSeasonal Hours
Excellent Ride Destination
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Page 48 SEPTEMBER 2015 • BACKROADS
M O T O R C Y C L E M A R K E T P L A C E ALL THAT GOOD STUFF
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210 Route 10 West, East Hanover, NJ • 973-428-1735
www.HanoverPowersports.comDress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, gloves and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal anddangerous. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information re-garding the MSF course, please call 1-800-446-9227. ©2014 Yamaha Motor Corporation. U.S.A. All rights reserved. • YamahaMotorsports.com
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www.HanoverPowersports.com
1190 Adventure R
Jack-Of-All-Tradesamong
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210 Route 10 West, East Hanover, NJ
973-428-1735
210 Route 10 West • East Hanover, NJ • 973-428-1735www.Powersports.Honda.comMon, Tue, Wed, Fri: 9am-6pm • Thur: 9am-8pmSat: 9am-5pm • SUNDAY: CLOSED
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honda.com ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING. NEVER RIDE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL, AND NEVER USE THE STREET AS A RACETRACK. OBEY THE LAW AND READ THE OWNER’S MANUALTHOROUGHLY. For rider training information or to locate a rider training course near you, call the Motorcycle Safety Foundation at 800-446-9227. NC700X, CB500X and CRF1000L Africa Twin are registered trademarsk of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (08/15)
Out of the shadows and into adventure2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin
Take the road less travelled with either the NC700X or the CB500X
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