Take a ride down memory lane. Have fun reading about where we've been
10/28/08 Ice Cream Social
Our 2nd Ice Cream Social for October will be on the 28th @ 7pm at the souternmost point that our chapter reaches. That would be the home of our Chapter Ride Coordinator, Ron Willingham (see attached map) at 350 Sheckells Road in Huntingtown, Calvert County. This is B.Y.O.T (Bring Your Own Topping)
Posh Bikes Rev Up Amid Slowdown
By JONATHAN WELSH
Get set for an invasion of high-end motorcycles -- just as the economy is heading into a possible recession.
Manufacturers are rolling out a troop of powerful, opulent, feature-laden machines at prices that would have seemed outlandish for something on two wheels just a few years ago. Several motorcycles that recently went on sale or are expected in dealerships this spring cost between $15,000 and $40,000, more than a Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan. Harley-Davidson Inc.'s Rocker C looks like a custom-built "chopper" and costs $19,495. BMW AG is taking orders for its racy $25,375 HP2 Sport -- more than 25% more expensive than even its most deluxe models cost a few years ago -- and Ducati Motor Holding SpA is charging $72,500 for the Desmosedici RR, based on a model raced in professional competitions. Victory Motorcycles, a unit of Polaris Industries Inc., and MV Agusta, a unit of Cagiva SpA, are also rolling out new lines that enter new pricing territory.
The posse of pricey bikes follows a steady increase in the average motorcycle price, which reached $12,304 last year, up from $11,480 in 2002. But while the latest bikes were developed during the industry's boom of the past several years, they are arriving as demand is slackening and fuel prices are rising. U.S. motorcycle sales dipped 7.7% to about 1.1 million in 2007 -- the first decline in more than a decade -- as consumers cut back on discretionary spending.
February 2008
Ride Coordinator Ron Willingham writes;
Hi Chapter J, Back in Sept., I wrote an article expressing the minor problem I was having on my 1800 wing when it rained the engine would stall at idle speed when coming to a stop. My wing had 153,000 miles on it so I suspected that the spark plug wires were losing resistance and causing leakage when exposed to water. I have seen this before on car and truck engines. One way to diagnose this problem is to spray a mist of water from a spray bottle on the plug wires in the dark of night or in a dark garage. And run a piece of wire grounded or a large screwdriver over the wires and watch the tiny sparks appear. Well I was correct in my assumption. I have ridden in some very heavy rains in the past two weeks and the engine has performed flawlessly. I now have 168000 miles and I am looking forward to another 200,000 if possible. I recently had to use my extended warranty as the water pump developed a leak. This repair was the cost of the extended warranty and NO cost to me. Not many of you will put the miles on your wings that I have before trading up but just in case you do please keep this tip in the back of your mind.
Myrtle Beach motorcycle event disappoints bikers and businesses
Tougher laws, police road blocks and a general unwelcomed feeling left Myrtle Beach relatively biker free during the 2009 Spring Harley Rally motorcycle event that wrapped up over the weekend.
While some local residents may have been happy with the smaller number of motorcycle enthusiasts who braved venturing into the Myrtle Beach city limits, many local businesses have been left poorer for the event and angry at the way things turned out.
And the effect may be felt by Myrtle Beach for years to come with many bikers promising to never come back as they left over the weekend.
Tattoo parlors seemed to bear the brunt of the bikers absence with business down as much as 90% over last year for some ink-artists. Some managers reported as few as twelve rooms filled in a hundred room hotel compared to 100% occupancy in years prior. And not getting the influx of visitors usually expected with this time of year, other businesses have decided to sell and leave the area all together.
| For those bikers that did venture into Myrtle Beach, several road blocks were organized over the period of the event frustrating local drivers as well as visiting motorcycle enthusiasts. During one such action, 25 to 30 police officers checked driver's licenses and vehicle registrations along the US 17, narrowing the road down to one lane. As of Friday morning Horry County police had issued a total of 1,831 citations during the rally. |
Motorcycle Parts on Amazon.com
Amazon.com Opens Motorcycle Parts & Accessories Store... Let the Buying Begin!
Amazon.com has opened a store for motorcycle and ATV gear, parts, and accessories, and we can practically hear the cash registers ringing from here.
www.amazon.com/motorcycle takes the idea behind the website's automotive parts and accessories site (launched in 2007), and applies it to bikes
Fight for Faith
Event to benefit Faith Johnson who will be undergoing liver transplant within the next few months. Faiths mother will be tested to be her living donor. Join us for a day of music, fun and games. This is a familyevent. Please bring your lawn chairs and your dancing shoes. All ages are welcome and encouraged to attend. There will be children activities, food and refreshments. If you would like to donate your time, food, driks etc. please contact Bonnie. (443-975-7668) or email @ fight_4_your_faith@yahoo.com.
Notice of Proposed Settlement of 2001-2004 Gold Wing Class Action
A settlement has been reached in the litigation between plaintiffs and Honda, as set forth in the Settlement Agreement, dated May 31, 2008, on file with the Court. The Settlement was negotiated with Honda by Class Counsel. Class Counsel believe that this Settlement is fair, adequate, reasonable, and in the best interests of the Settlement Class. The Court preliminarily approved the Settlement on September 9, 2008. This notice provides only a summary of the terms of the Settlement Agreement. For any terms not specifically defined in this notice, they have the definitions given to them in the Settlement Agreement. A complete copy of the Settlement Agreement may be obtained as set forth in Section VII. of this notice.
Settlement Benefits. Pursuant to the Settlement, Honda will make available its Frame Inspection and Remediation Program to all Settlement Class Members for the lifetime of their motorcycle(s), free of charge. Honda will repair the Frame Weld Condition of any Class Vehicle that was not previously repaired or if necessary perform additional repairs for the Frame Weld Condition for a Class Vehicle. Honda will also replace the frame free of charge for any Class Vehicle that:
Honda Promises Hybrid Motorcycles
The significance of Honda's rumored hybrid and electric plans are vast, and if true, could dramatically alter the motorcycle landscape; though ambitious concepts from ENV, Yamaha, andSuzuki promise a bright future (and some boutique companies like Zero already sell electric bikes), it looks Honda might actually deliver a hybrid product on a mainstream scale.
07/13/08 Chrome & Crabs Postponed
We just got word that Brigid's father passed away last night so chrome & crabs is cancelled for this Sunday. We are looking to reschedule it in August and will get the info out as soon as it is set.
Right now we are looking at Saturday, August 9th.
Stay Tuned for further updates!!!!!!!
HB577
The Maryland General Assembly is considering legislation that would make using arbitration to settle insurance disputes illegal.
If approved, this bill would force all insurance related legal cases to go to trial. Litigation is an expensive process that can entail thousands of dollars in unnecessary costs for attorney fees and court costs. These costs will then have to be passed onto consumers through higher insurance rates.
This legislation will force insurers to sue each other in the future, when arbitration is now commonly used to handle many of these disputes.
Arbitration helps limits costs and resolves conflicts quickly and efficiently.
This legislation will flood courts with additional litigation, requiring increased state and county resources to handle the additional cases that will be brought into the system.
Please help stop this blatant attempt by Maryland trial lawyers to pick the pockets of insurance companies—and ultimately of insurance consumers in the state.
If you live in Maryland, please contact your legislators, the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee and the Governor and urge them to vote no on HB 577.
10/26/08 Leaf Ride
We are planning a Leaf Ride On Sunday October 26. This will be the last ride of the season for Chapter J. If you would like to participate please be at the Old Mill McDonalds on Sunday the 26th by 8:30 AM
April Garage Meeting
This months Garage meeting will be held at the fine home of Paul & Louise Tucker. Their home is located at 4004 Old Crain Hwy, Upper Marlboro. We will see you there at 7:00 PM. Click here for Map
02/26/08 February Ice Cream
We will be having our ice cream social for the month of February. It will be held at the home of Chapter Directors Mike and Kathrynn Mangums home.
It's BYOT (Bring Your Own Topping) and Join us at 7 PM
Click here for Directions
Planning a Great Road Trip
Motorcycle Touring 101
By Basem Wasef, About.com
Motorcycle trips demand far more planning than the equivalent journey in a car. Though riding provides an inherent sense of freedom, practical limitations require motorcyclists to think ahead when choosing to hit the open road.
For starters, most motorcycles are limited in their storage capacity. Though all-out touring bikes such as the Honda Gold Wing and the BMW K1200LT offer numerous hard cases for the storage of extra clothes and gear, long distance riders are often forced to make tough decisions about the details of their trips, and how much of what items they need to pack.
Important Points to Consider
The first questions you'll want to ask yourself when planning a trip pertain to how long you plan on being gone, where you intend to go, and what you have in mind for lodging.First on your list of "must pack" items is a safety and repair kit, which we've covered in a separate article.
Unless you're riding a fully fledged touring motorcycle, you'll probably need to invest in some type of storage bags; backpacks don't count. Options include saddlebags (which rest straddle the seat and rest on either side of the rear wheel, and are also known as panniers,) and tank bags, which sit directly atop the fuel tank (and often have handy clear plastic windows for displaying maps.) While hard bags offer more weather protection than soft bags, they are also costlier, add more weight, and require more involved installation. Centrally positioned tail bags are another option if you need even more storage.
Inspect Your Bike
While more detailed inspection and maintenance practices can be found in our motorcycle maintenancesection, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's T-CLOCS method is an efficient way to inspect your bike before traveling:- T: Tires.
Make sure both tires are properly inflated, using an air pressure monitor that you bring with you on rides. Don't risk riding on tires that might need replacement; if suspect a tire will not last long enough for a ride, have it replaced.
- C: Controls.
Are your cables (clutch and brakes) and controls intact and working?
- L: Lights.
Make sure your headlights (high & low beam), turn signals, and brake lights work. - O: Oils & fluids.
Check everything from engine oil and coolant to brake fluid. - C: Chassis.
Ensure that the frame, suspension, chain, and fasteners are all secure and intact. - S: Stands.
Make sure the center stand and/or side stand isn't cracked or bent, and that springs properly hold the assembly away from the pavement when stowed.
For a more detailed, downloadable inspection checklist, go to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's website.
Packing Tips
Packing for a long distance motorcycle ride is a delicate balance between bringing enough items to ensure comfort, and not overloading yourself with unnecessary weight and bulk. After you've planned your route, you'll want to check the weather forecast and get an idea of what to expect in terms the elements.A good touring suit is an excellent investment, and when choosing your clothes, consider packing several thin layers of clothing, rather than a few thick ones. Flexibility is the key to staying comfortable; it's far better to have the option to stop and shed or add layers as necessary, than to shiver or sweat your way through what would otherwise be an enjoyable, scenic route.
Be sure to bring energy bars or trail mix and water; if hunger or thirst strikes while you're far from convenience stores or gas stations, the nourishment will come in handy and keep your riding skills sharp.
When loading up your bike, always put heavier, more solid items on the bottom and sides closer to the bike (to centralize weight.) Lighter items should go on top. If you don't have saddlebags or tank bags, you should consider using bungee nets to secure loose items. If you must travel with items secured by a bungee net, ensure that they are snug and will not get loosened by winds or g-forces. Again, placing heavier , wider, and more stable items at the bottom will provide an anchor for looser, floppier pieces (like sleeping pads or pillows.)
Finally, equip yourself well. Always wear a full-face helmet for maximum protection-- not only against accidents, but also from the elements. Full-face helmets can provide a shield from rain and cold winds, and if constructed with ventilation, can also provide a certain level of comfort in warm weather. It may feel constricting in heat, but the overall benefits of choosing safety over style are vast when considering your long-term health and well being.
Plan, Plan, Plan...
Though it's tempting to hit the open road and simply follow your nose, don't forget that you're more vulnerable to the elements, fatigue, and potentially serious injury on a motorcycle. Prepare yourself with clothing appropriate for the weather. Plan a route and, if you don't have a portable GPS system, do whatever it takes not to get lost-- even if it means taping directions to the top of your fuel tank. Err in the direction of filling up with gas too frequently; because of their relatively low cruising range, most bikes will barely make it across some of the North American stretches of highway that are sparsely populated. When in doubt, fill up.Pace your travels realistically. Don't try to ride so many hours in a day that it might affect your reflexes or decision making ability; after all, most of the fun is in the journey, not simply in reaching a destination. While riding, be sure to stop whenever necessary-- whether for a snack, a stretch, or a nap. The simple act of taking a breather will make the ride all the more enjoyable.
...But Don't Overplan!
Once you've prepared sufficiently, enjoy the possibility of the unexpected. Riding requires a certain amount of discipline and logistical planning, but part of the joy of the journey is the process. Be open to re-writing your plans when necessary, and you'll have a blast no matter where you end up.
11/06/08 Garage Meeting
Don't miss our next get together. It will be a garage meeting at the home of our ride coordinator Ron Willingham (Click Here). We will start at 7 PM on Thursday November 6.
Special Planning meeting next week!!!
There will be a special Planning Meeting for all Chapter J Members on Tuesday August 5th at the home of Chapter Directors Mike and Kathrynn Mangum. The meeting will begin @ 7PM. Please be prepared to discuss ticket sales and planning of our annual fundraiser coming up in September. Click Here for Map.
08/09/08 Brunch Ride to OC
Our quasi-annual ride to O.C. for brunch will be this Saturday the 9th. We'll be meeting at the Cape St. Claire McDonalds for departure at 6:30am.
05/27/08 Ice Cream Social
Our 2nd Ice Cream Social for the month of May will be on Tuesday the 27th. It will be a B.Y.O.T. at the home of our Kent Island members, Bill & Jenny Angelini. They reside at 126 State Street, Stevensville, MD. It starts @ 7pm
GWRRA pays Tribute to Flight 93 Victims
Rebecca and I just got back from a great weekend in Johnstown, PA. On the way back, we stopped at the Flight 93 Memorial near Somerset, PA. If you have never visited this historic site, I highly recommend it. It is very moving, and the roads in the area are very pretty. While at the Memorial, amongst several other stone tablets, we were quite surprised that GWRRA was prominently represented. See attached photo. According to Wayne & Gail Harper, during last year’s Pennsylvania State Rally, 15 members from GWRRA PA Chapter R from Sayre, PA rode down and presented the memorial stone. It measures approximately 16” across, 2” thick, and weighs almost 75 pounds. Way to go GWRRA
Sidney M. Spunt
GWRRA MD District Trainer
GWRRA MD District Webmaster
GWRRA MD-A Webmaster
08/12/08 Ice Cream Social
Our first Ice Cream Social for August will be held on Tuesday the 12th at the Italian Market near Parole Town Center just outside of Annapolis on MD450 (see attached map) at 7pm.