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I fnally had the chance to travel across our beautiful state for last months distribution run. Yes, we do actually hand deliver most of the magazines to all our wonderful reps across the state, which usually requires doing the trip on four wheels. Not a good thing when the weather was in the 80s and absolutely beautiful. Oh, and did I mention that we travelled across the state on some of the best roads I have ever seen, and in a truck? Yuck! I have to tell you how jealous I am of the roads some of you get to ride everyday. Yeah, bad traffc and the occasional threat on our existence by cagers aside, the roads throughout the state of West Virginia are unbelievable. Up, down, left, right. You dont see much straight road out there, which makes West Virginia a motorcyclists dream. You have to read this months Hidden Highway and fnd out about West Virginias own Dragons Lair that beats the well known namesakes length by miles.The chance to travel across the state enabled me to fnally meet face-to-face with the great people we work with to get Thunder Roads West Virginia out to all of you readers. We have been very fortunate to meet some of the best people around. All of us as a team will be making our way across the state to attend events that range from big rallies to Thursday Bike Nights at the local haunts. If you see us there, be sure to stop by the booth and say Hi. Wed love to meet you.Getting to meet some of the wonderful advertisers while on our trip was really enjoyable. They see what the magazine can do and they support us any way they can, so make sure you try to help take care of them too. Every one of the biker friendly establishments listed in the magazine is a business that opens their doors to bikers of any size and shape. Heck, most of them are or have been riders and love having good, honest folks come visit their establishments. Do us a favor and let them know where you saw their ad.Hey, in this day and age where we are all watching every penny, we need to keep it local because the only way to help our own local economy is to support businesses in our own state. I cant afford the money or the time to travel all the way to South Dakota or Florida. But I can make an overnighter to Charleston or to Marlinton. Ill have a great ride getting there, and know where to go to have a good time while Im there.We are here for you West Virginia and we dont plan on leaving. In fact, anyone have a nice chunk of land in the middle of the state for sale? Real cheap?Ride safe and keep the shiny side up! DonnaDragonTales 2 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010Copyright 2010. Published by Thunder Roads West Virginia, LLC under license from Thunder Publishing. All rights reserved. No part of this magazines content may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility and is not to be held liable for errors beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error, slander of any group or individual, failure to produce any issue as scheduled due to reasons beyond our control, any and all suits for libel, plagiarism, copyright infringement, and unauthorized use of a persons name or photograph. Opinions and claims made by advertisers and authors are their own, and do not necessarily represent the policy of Thunder Roads West Virginia, Thunder Roads Magazine, or Thunder Publishing. The Publisher does not promote the abuse of alcohol or other drugs.From The Editor...................4Letters..................6Bikers Unite for Fallen Miners..................8Spring Fling Raises a Grand......................10Bike of the Month........................................13Hidden Highway State Route 20............14Skin Art................16Blending Bikes and Family..............18K.I.S.S.................20Center Calendar.................22Why the FJR?.............24TNT.................26The Jokers Wild.....................28Seats & Saddles.................29The High Road......................33Bike Nites Begin.......................34A Collection of Parts...................................36Hoka Hey Happenings..............38Two Wheels Too Many.................39Biker Friendly Directory................40Readers Rides A Survey..............43Upcoming Events..................44Thunder roads WesT VirginiaP.O. Box 606 / Charles Town, WV 25414www.thunderroadswv.comoWner / ediTorsGary Westphalen, Editor-in-Chief [email protected] / 304-616-0102Donna K. Westphalen, [email protected] / 304-261-1609LayouT & designBarbara Laszewski Garner / Thunder Publishingad LayouTMeredith Hancock / Hancock GraphicsConTribuTorsKen Holby, Bob Hyre, Jim Jammer Marcum, Earl Nuzum, Moe VetteradVerTising saLes / disTribuTionNATiONAL ACCOuNTs Donna K. Westphalen - 304-261-1609 / [email protected], MARiON, TAyLOREarl Nuzum 304-816-2863 / [email protected] WVGreg Vernon 304-616-0249 / [email protected], GRANT, MiNERAL, HAMPsHiRE, PENDLETONMoe Vetter - 304-668-9563 / [email protected], BERKELEy, JEFFERsONDave Luksa - 304-268-1315 / [email protected], RALEiGH, FAyETTE, NiCHOLAs, GREENBRiERJeff Davis 304-673-7321 / [email protected] Pops Evans - 540-327-6588 / [email protected] Michel - 703-517-2890 / [email protected] THE COVERDeep in the heart of the Potomac Highlands region of West Virginia, a lone Valkyrie carries her riders past an instantly recognizable landmark. Seneca Rocks draws hikers, climbers, picnickers, campers, photographers, fshers and every other kind of ers you can think of. But no one enjoys this gorgeous area more than bikers. Whether your passion is mountain twisties or valley sweepers, endless biker friendly roads or great biker friendly places to stop, this area has it all. We spend some time there on Page 18.naTionaL FoundersToni McCoy shearon & Brian shearonPO Box 174 / Chapmansboro, TN 37035Offce 615-792-0040 / Fax: 615-792-7580email: [email protected] 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 3 www.thunderroadswv.comThis months issue is packed with so many exciting stories that I have to consider it our best one yet. This month we are showcasing everything that bikers are, and why West Virginia is the best place to be a biker.Our lead story this month is about bikers coming together to support the families of the 29 fallen miners. Raising money to help the families cope with their losses and face the future drew riders from across the entire state. They opened their wallets and hearts to do what they could. It was a moving display of support and we are proud to bring you the story.Speaking of family, Donna and I had a chance to take our family on a bike trip to one of the states most iconic attractions. The story of our little camping trip is designed to inspire you to include motorcycles in your own family experience. Bikes are a part of my fondest childhood memories, and I believe its a passion that we are obligated to pass on to the next generation.That generation wouldnt be around if it werent for moms. To celebrate this months Mothers Day, our Bike of the Month is a bouquet of roses proudly owned by a West Virginia mom. Consider it a reminder to make Mothers Day wonderful for the moms in your life.Speaking of wonderful moments, if you roll your scoot onto this months Hidden Highway youre in for more than 40 miles full of them. This excellent road slices north to south through the middle of the state. We picked out a stretch of it right in the center to highlight. Turns out that its such a cool piece of road that we almost want to keep it for ourselves. But sharing information is the reason were here, so were spilling the beans.Thats just a sampling of the great line-up of stories we have for you this month. Theres a whole lot more to this issue, and its all in your hands because of the advertisers who support us. They are our only source of income and you, in turn, are their only source. So the next time you visit the biker friendly establishment where you picked up this magazine, be sure to thank them for it. And if your shop, hangout, or favorite destination doesnt carry Thunder Roads West Virginia, bring a copy in to them and tell them they need to become part of the growing family of advertisers who support your right to ride in this great state.Gary 4 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010 West Virginia One year subscription to Thunder Roads is only $35 a year. The nations largest FREE biker publication can be delivered right to your door.Name___________________________________Address_________________________________City____________________________________State_________________ Zip_______________Make Check payable to: Thunder Roads West VirginiaMail check and this form to: Thunder Roads West VirginiaP.O. Box 606 Charles Town, WV 25414MaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 5 www.thunderroadswv.comGary,A good friend and fellow biker just introduced me to your magazine and i think it is great. i love the pics and especially the seats & saddles section.i want to make a comment about the story on trying to repeal the helmet law. From my personal point of view, bad idea. Here is why. i work for a local funeral home. On occasion i am called out on death calls, some involving fatal motorcycle accidents. i have seen, up close and personal, the horrible affect that blunt-force-trauma does to the human head, even when wearing an approved helmet. i shudder to think what they would have looked like had they NOT been wearing a helmet.i certainly cannot speak for our Governor, but i trust he will come down on the side of good sound common sense. The good Lord only gives one head to a customer. you can bet your motorcycle boots when i straddle my Harley and head down the roads in this great state, i will have my head in my helmet.Thanks.Ride on & be sAFERichard G. Warnerrichard,i understand your point of view. as i have always said, i ride with a helmet regardless of the law. My objection isnt to the use of a helmet. im opposed to the government MandaTing that i wear it.if we dont challenge this law, it opens the door to more and more government control of our lives. There is nothing to stop some uninformed politician from taking this one step further, and then another step, and then another step, etc. Why not mandate full-body armored clothing, motorcycle seat belts and bumpers, and a host of other bad ideas? Why not outlaw motorcycles all together? Then, lets outlaw other dangerous leisure activities like hunting, skiing, and rock climbing. in fact, lets outlaw aLL leisure travel of any kind. Wouldnt this save lives?i know that many believe helmets are a bad idea, and thats why they want this law repealed. i dont personally agree with this reasoning, but we dont have to agree. Thats the very basis of a free society. i dont think this is an issue of public safety. in my mind, this debate is a fundamental question about just how far the government has the right to control your personal freedoms. if we allow this law to stand without challenge, we may fnd ourselves riding down a very slippery slope.garyHi Gary,Hey i was wondering about the whole ethanol thing. Do all gasoline grades have it or just regular? is anyone producing fuels that dont have ethanol? is high-test fuel our only easy recourse without other additives? Hey thanks for your time and attention. Best to All,Joff Rollandhey Joff,its in all grades of gas. There may be some stations around that are Letters To The Editorstill selling non-ethanol blends, but as part of the Federal energy independence and security act of 2007 all gas will soon include ethanol. one of the biggest questions about ethanol blended fuel is its shelf life. some sources say it loses potency within weeks of blending, a claim the petroleum industry says isnt true. ethanol accounts for about three points of the octane rating, so by running a higher octane fuel you are essentially discounting the value of the ethanol. The best advice weve been able to fnd is to keep your engine well-tuned and the tank flled with fresh, high quality gas. You can also look into use of an additive made specifcally for use with ethanol blended fuel. do these additives work? again, some sources weve talked to say yes, some say no. You may have to experiment a bit to fnd out what works best for your bike.garyGreat mag read them from cover to cover and wish you great success. But a friend and i are both missing the frst issue and both of us would really, really like to have one! is there any way to get them? Thank you.Gary Boothgary,Cool frst name. Check out the gear Bag on our website at www.thunderroadswv.com. Back issues are available there for a few bucks apiece. That basically covers shipping and production costs for each mag. garyHey folks,i just caught your mag at Quaker steak and Lube in Charleston. you have a great thing here. im glad to see someone out there supporting bikers in print. you have some good writers there too. Being from the Kenna end of route 34 i really found that piece interesting. ill be looking for the next installment of this wonderful magazine.sincerelyRuss Bones KennedyPresidentWarrior souls Military Motorcycle ClubBones,Thanks for the slap on the back. its nice to know were being read. i hope you liked the 34 piece. When i saw the winding road sign, i couldnt resist, even though i knew i was going to get dumped on. i rode from the Kanawha all the way up to Parkersburg in a driving rain that afternoon. it was my wettest riding day of the season last year.Well be stopping in at the bike nights at Quaker steak and at other spots all over the state from time to time through the summer. Well also be at all of the major bike events throughout the state. if you see us there, say hi.gary 6 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010www.thunderroadswv.comyoure holding a hard copy of Thunder Roads West Virginia in your hands right now, and we thank you for that. This magazine is the fagship of our efforts to bring you Anything and Everything Motorcycle in West Virginia. But you can get interactive with us all month long on the internet.For starters, check out our website at www.thunderroadswv.com. stories are updated all month long on the website, and youll also fnd stories there that you wont fnd in the magazine. Our events calendar will keep you updated on the latest schedule of biker events throughout the state.We have a couple of new items on the website this month. Our library of pictures of events, Hidden Highways and other features are now available under the Photos tab. More pictures are being added all the time, so check back often. you never know when a really cool shot of you and your scoot is going to show up!Just in time for the riding season, we have introduced our awesome T-shirts. Emblazoned with the Thunder Roads West Virginia wings on the front and back, these Ts come in sizes from small to 4X. Theyre 15 bucks plus 5 for shipping. Buy as many as you want, the shipping is still just 5 bucks per order. Thats pretty darn cool! youll fnd them in the Gear Bag at www.thunderroadswv.com. Get yours today and ride in style!When youve fnished surfng our website, join in the chatter on our Facebook page. youll get daily updates on where the Thunder Roads crew is heading to cover motorcycle events across the state. There are instant updates on breaking motorcycle news. you can get previews and hints about the stories in the next issue of the magazine. And you can chat back and forth with the Thunder Roads West Virginia staff and other readers about any motorcycle related subject. This past month alone, our Facebook fans read about the Coal Miners Beneft Run as it was happening, complete with pictures. And they got the frst look at our magazine cover before it was even released in print.Online or on paper, Thunder Roads West Virginia is your riding partner.MaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 7 www.thunderroadswv.comit was an explosion a thousand feet underground in Raleigh County, but the event rocked the entire state of West Virginia this past month. When the horrible blast occurred at Massey Energys upper Big Branch mine on April 5, it was known almost immediately that 25 miners had lost their lives. Four miners remained unaccounted for, and it would be four more days before we knew they had been lost as well.First there was talk about it, Manny Froehlich tells Thunder Roads West Virginia. Manny is one of the partners of Tomahawks smokehouse and saloon in saint Albans. And then one by one, you start putting faces and names to the guys that were lost because a lot of our patrons either know them or are actually family to themyouve already made friends with your customers, and just to see how it affected them really set the tone.With the loss hitting so close to home, Manny felt the need to do something. in less than three days, the crew at Tomahawks put together a Coal Miners Beneft Run to provide fnancial assistance for the families of the 29 fallen miners.Hundreds of riders went kickstands up at 2 PM under a beautiful blue sky with a police escort. The 20 mile ride to the frst of two stops wound its way along the Kanawha River to Winfeld. Although the bikers were enjoying the ride, thoughts of the fallen brethren weighed heavy on everyones minds. The ride then went on to Hurricane and fnally back to st. Albans.it was such an overwhelming positive response, a positive turnout, Manny says. The Coal Miners Beneft Run, which occurred less than a week after the explosion, drew more than 300 bikes from all over the region. The riders opened their wallets and generated a washtub full of cash donations. The bar also donated half a buck from every drink served, and more than $8,000 was raised. Donations were still being accepted at press time and a local radio station was also raising money with expectations of some matching corporate funds.Coal mining, just like biking, is a way of life in West Virginia. The show of support bikers put forward for the lost miners and their loved ones was a clear statement of what this family of riders is all about.Bikers Unite for Fallen Miners 8 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010 MaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 9 www.thunderroadswv.comTheres no better way to mark the frst day of spring than to go for a ride. Add a good cause and a mass of motorcycles to the story, and you have the spring Fling Poker Run sponsored by Nan and Pops Place in Martinsburg. With temperatures holding nicely in the 70s and a sky full of bright sunshine, the day couldnt have been any nicer.six dozen bikes rolled out of the parking lot at 1PM, and spent the next few hours meandering a hundred miles or so through the beautiful back roads of the eastern panhandle. The trees had just begun to think about sprouting leaves and the grass wasnt growing yet, but most of the snow was gone and the sun was making a clear statement about the direction these things were going to go. Even the smiles on all those biker faces were clean and white because the bugs werent out yet.The ride frst headed southwest of Martinsburg and then along Back Creek and up towards Hedgesville, where cards were drawn at Byrds Tavern. stops in Martinsburg and shepherdstown followed, with the ride ending at Nan and Pops.Proceeds totaling One Thousand Dollars were hand-ed to Berkeley County sheriff Kenneth LeMaster. The sheriff says the money will be used to help erect a memorial to fallen police offcers of the eastern pan-handle.Spring Fling raiSeSagrand 10 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010Spring Fling raiSeSagrandMaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 11 www.thunderroadswv.comKim Davis of Parsons loves hummingbirds, butterfies, and roses. So much so, that she has a gorgeous scene of a hummingbird and a butterfy visiting a multi-colored rose bush tattooed on her left forearm and hand. She also loves Harleys. You know where this story is going, dont you?Back in 2007 Kims husband Jeff bought an 03 Super Glide. Kim, not a wilting fower to be sure, wasnt going to be content on the passenger pad. So she promptly picked out an 02 1200 Sportster for herself, and they both signed up for a safety training course.We have both been riders since we were children, says Kim. But dirt bikes and street are different. The course went well, and Kim took to the roads alongside Jeff. After some good miles, Jeff started thinking that Kim needed a bigger bike. They were getting interested in doing some distance, and he was wondering if she might be better off with a softail or touring bike.Kim had other ideas. I wanted to customize my Sportster. Over the next year, with the help of a lot of caring expert advice, the bike was transformed into the rolling work of art that it is now. It was ftted with a Fat Bob tank and a Brawler seat. Some LED lighting found a spot in the project.And heres the part of the story you already fgured out. The paint scheme is my tattoo. My husband designed the bikes look. Wesley Blevins at Cruiz painted the elaborate Rose Garden.These roses will soon have more miles on them than most fower delivery trucks. We love to ride! she says. Weve planned two long trips this year. Texas on Memorial Day weekend and California on Labor Day for two weeks.Things are looking rosy for Kim and her Dream come true bike.Kims RoseBIKE OF THE MONTHMaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 13 www.thunderroadswv.comHidden HighwaysState Route 20Thats a helluva biker road, isnt it?The grin on Moe Vetters face is spread cheekpad to cheekpad in his three-quarter helmet. As he says this, im realizing that my neck is sore from an hours worth of con-tinuous pivoting as i looked my way through an endless parade of switchbacks. Were sitting at our frst stoplight on the outskirts of Buckhannon after just completing a 44 mile run on state Route 20 south of here. We jumped onto 20 at Diana from Highway 15, and the fun started instantly. Climbing the frst of an awesome collec-tion of mountains that lie in wait, we already know we have found a gem. A series of serpentine curves is just getting us warmed up for whats ahead. Before long, the climb becomes steeper and the curves give way to switchbacks so tight that second gear often comes into play. Aw, yeah, this road was made for bikes.The sun is pouring down on us through a maze of unfet-tered branches. The forest blanketing these mountains isnt yet convinced that this gorgeous low-70s day really signals the start of the growing season. But the Redbud trees are willing to take that chance, and their bright color stands out against the hesitant hardwoods. When that canopy of leaves does arrive, its pretty clear that it will stretch right over this road in many places.Reaching the top of our frst mountain, we squiggle around the summit for a few seconds and then drop down the other side. None of this happens in a straight line, and the edges of our tires are getting quite a workout. A few seconds of twisting our way along a small valley foor, and up we go again to be challenged by the next mountain. This pattern will repeat itself many times, but it never gets boring. The pavement is a little rough in spots, and the markings sprayed on the bad spots suggest that help is on the way. None of the winters damage is very severe, and we really dont have to focus on it. There is very little traffc, and a surprising lack of gravel in the curves allows us to attack the road with confdence.This is beautiful, unspoiled territory. There are a few towns along the way - places like Hacker Valley, Cleve-land and Kanawha Head. With sawmills and other businesses that draw their existence from the surrounding mountains, the towns seem to ft perfectly into the landscape. We cross the Left Fork of the Holly River at Hacker Valley and the Holly River state Park whooshes through our peripheral vision just as we begin to climb the next mountain.in West Virginia, its not at all unusual to traverse a few mountains in a row before most roads fnd a kindler, gen-tler way. But Route 20 doesnt believe in taking the easy way out. it boldly winds its way up and down and up and down. These arent the biggest mountains in the state not by a long shot. But theres more than enough eleva-tion change to keep things interesting every second of the way. This is a long stretch of lightly traveled roadway that should be on every bikers To Do list. 14 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010Were heading northbound, and just before we get to French Creek we come upon the West Virginia Wildlife Center. its a zoological facility run by the state Department of Natural Resourc-es. Along its trails are exhibits and large animal enclosures nestled right into the forest that tell the story of our states natural inhabitants. its a perfect place to take a break, eat your lunch, and learn what this state was like before human intervention.From French Creek north to Buckhannon, the character of the road abruptly changes. The surrounding environs level out quite a bit and state Highway 20 responds by becoming a lot tamer than the previ-ous miles. Wilderness gives way to farmland and traffc picks up a bit. its still a nice ride but the adrenaline rush wears down to a euphoric recall of the miles just logged.Moe has never been to the Tail of the Dragon in North Carolina, but he remarks that he cant imagine it has anything that could be better than the road we just took. He doesnt realize what an under-statement that is. i have been to the Dragon several times and i can tell you that its crowded with crazy people riding beyond their skills, but Route 20 is an empty road. The Dragon is also only eleven miles long, yet Route 20 provides more than 40 miles of thrills. Run the dragon if you want the t-shirt. But if you want to take a helluva biker road, you cant do better than West Virginia state Highway 20.MaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 15 www.thunderroadswv.comMotorcycle Miles for Moffitt Cancer CenterThe morning of this event started out cold, 40 degrees which is about 25 degrees for those on a motorcycle! But, hundreds of riders from the Tampa Bay area made the commitment to support this event and we left our warm homes to brave the weather. This was one of those days that if we were up north it would be snowing and it actually was in 49 of the 50 states! We started out at Gulf Coast Harley-Davidson, and then rode on to the Mofftt Cancer Center, Tampa H-D, Clear Channel Radio Station, and fnally fnished at Brandon H-D for the after party. Although this was their frst time motorcycle event, Miles for Mofftt has successfully held running events over the last fve SKINART 16 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010MaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 17 www.thunderroadswv.comBlending Bikes and FamilyWhen people that i meet fnd out what i do for a living, they always tell me their personal motorcycle history. i love it. There is no greater instant bond than between fellow riders as they share their experiences.i used to have a bike. Then i got married and had kidsand sold the bike.But that painful story is the most frequent one i hear. As a two-wheel lifer, it kills me when i have to park the bikes because there is snow on the roads. i cant imagine how much a decision like that would hurt. Particularly because, it doesnt have to be that way.Enter the little ones. Taylor and Tim. yes, the early years dramatically cut into riding time. But suck it up for a while, and hang in there. Eventually their feet can reach the passenger pegs, and a whole new dimension in motorcycling opens up for you.The story of this third generation of bikers (Grandpas Tom and Bill both have biker histories) actually begins a few years ago, when they each got 50CC motorcycles with outrigger style training wheels. Hundreds of laps around a wide, oval shaped grade school bus driveway later, and they both had a pretty good idea of what it was like to ride a bike. But they still couldnt reach the pegs on our street bikes, so the thrill ended there.Then, late last summer, it happened. Little soles on shoes that are too expensive, dont last long, and wouldnt ft for long even if they did, made contact with the rubber on those passenger pegs. Barely. But it was enough to introduce them to minutes-long jaunts up and down our rarely travelled road. im pretty sure that Donna held her breath the entire time. But only good came of it, and the trips got a little longer. One time, all the way to our favorite ice cream shop about 30 miles away.it wasnt enough. With motorcycling already in their blood, they took to this biker thing like rabid road dawgs. They wanted more, and in a case of the mouth acting ahead of the brain, i blurted out something like, Hey, we should go motorcycle camping! Now, i can tell them to make their beds a million times and they dont hear me, but mention an idea like that once and it is carved in stone. Timing and weather prevented us from implementing the plan last fall. But when grade school spring break coincided with the frst 90 degree days of the year a couple weeks ago, we were ready.A tent, sleeping bags, more clothes than we need for an overnight trip, some spare riding gear, and camera equipment (Hey, im working here!) are strapped to two of our cruisers. Now 10 and 8 respectively, Taylor and Tim eagerly climb aboardboys against the girls style. Firing up the scooters gets my juices fowing, and im pretty sure i see that ficker of adrenaline fash through three other sets of eyes peering out of helmets. With a round of Thumbs up signals, Tim and i roll out frst, with Donna and Taylor in hot pursuit.Were heading for seneca shadows, the newest u.s. Forest service campground in the spruce Knob-seneca Rocks Recreation Area. its just a mile south of the iconic seneca Rocks, a blade-like formation that stabs 900 feet into the sky above the surrounding river basin. This is one of those places that, if you havent seen it, you havent fnished seeing West Virginia.This is a 130 mile trip each way. its much longer than any ride the kids have been on. But we verse them on the things they will face as they spend a few hours in the saddle. We talk about the dangers, and have developed ways to stay in communication with each other through hand and physical signals. if i tap you on the leg three times, im asking if you are okay. if you are fne, tap back three times. The training from last years short trips is paying off.Our frst stop comes only about 30 miles from home. Everyone is fne, but we need to gas up and drink some water. its hot out here, but no one seems to mind. This may be the frst time ever that we have travelled this far without one of them asking, Are we there yet?The next 60 miles, mostly on Highway 55 and Old 55, take us over mountain passes and through the gorgeous valleys along the Lost River as we wind our way to Moorefeld. Just west of Wardensville, right where the new 4-lane version of the highway splits from the Old, we spy a large plume of smoke coming from the top of the next ridge. Climbing towards it on the aging route, Donna and Taylor catch a glimpse of orange beneath the billowing smoke. The forest fre is a mile or so north of the road, so it poses no threat to us. But its a scary sight.This highway used to be full of traffc. it was a major roadway for people travelling east to west, and for the many trucks loaded with raw logs, live chickens and turkeys, and the fnished products made from them. They can make the trip in half the time on the new highway now. so this twisted old ribbon is only followed by those who live on it, and those who remember it.Two more bikers remember it now. Each in their own way. Taylor is swiveling her attention from side to side, pointing out horses, cows, lambs, and dogs. Tim is making sure that i see each glimpse of a river, and every awesome rock formation that rolls through his feld of view. i have ridden this road hundreds of times before. Today i get to ride it for the frst time, again.its been about twenty minutes since we passed that mountaintop wildfre. suddenly a couple of fre trucks come into view in the oncoming lane. With lights and sirens ablaze as they scream by, we can only assume they are on their way to curb the fres advance.By the time we reach Moorefeld, i can tell by his weak responses to my tapped queries that Tims getting drowsy. As we break for another round of fuids, we calculate that we are only about 45 miles from the campgrounds. A poll of the crew shows that everyone is feeling much more lively after this break, and were ready to go. The fnal push takes us through Petersburg and the smoke Hole area into the Potomac Highlands. As seneca Rocks comes into view, i swear i can hear Tim say Woah over the rumble of my Heritage.By Gary Westphalen 18 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010its a Tuesday, so the campground is nearly deserted, save for a couple of trout fshermen and rock climbers. There are so many sites here that our 19 bucks gets us a spot thats a one minute walk away from an exquisitely clean bathroom with free hot showers. We can just barely see the fickering of a campfre through the trees at the nearest occupied campsite hundreds of yards away. Camp is set up with military precision - gosh, i wish they were this helpful at home and in no time at all were ready to get back on the bikes and head out in search of food. Less than two miles down the road we settle into a dinner of fried chicken, chicken strips, and a couple of steaks. Everyones mind is going 60 miles an hour replaying the days trip, but actual conversation is slight because the mouths are busy. Nothing stimulates the appetite like a day of riding. As the bill for the now-licked clean plates is being handled inside, Taylor and Tim step out the door where they are greeted by an overtly friendly pooch. she is so happy to see them that she just cant stop a full-body wiggling fest that makes us all laugh. For reasons i will never understand, they name her Kevin.Back at camp, its dark now. Time has come to start the fre and get the marshmallows roasting. The old man does a ahem masterful job of creating the perfect fre and the roasting commences. Family chit-chat intersperses with episodes of burning marshmallows and chomping on smores. At one point, i look over at the fantastic machines that brought us here. in the glow of the fre, all i can see is the refections of shiny chrome and glass headlights. But i swear they are smiling. Tim just cant resist throwing hands full of leaves into the fre as Taylors eyes begin the transition to sleep mode. shes the frst to call it a day. He wont be far behind.in the quiet of the late night, Donna and i challenge each other at roasting the perfect marshmallow over the last of our campfre. Carmelized to a golden brown on the outside, and so warm and gooey on the inside that it literally falls off the end of the stick and into your mouth. We both win. The light of the fre slowly gives way and, as the embers darken, our vision opens up to reveal the countless stars shining over us. The hooting of a lone owl is the only sound stirring the night air. Or is it 2 owls conversing? i dont know for sure because i dont speak owl. Crawling into our spots in the cozy tent, i think to myself, i dont know how it gets any better than this.Waking with reinvigorated anticipation of the day ahead, we pack up our gear and dont even leave the campgrounds before we make our frst stop. i spot an amphitheater in the woods that seems to be designed for giving nature presentations. But on this morning the rough-hewn stage with seating for a hundred or so serves as the stage for Taylor By Gary Westphalento practice singing for her upcoming school talent show, with Tim providing the background choreography. The audience of two is moved.After breakfast at the same restaurant they were hoping to see Kevin again, but didnt our frst stop is at the Welton Park near Petersburg. Wading into the south Branch of the Potomac River, Tim pronounces the water warm but my feet go numb from the cold in less than a minute. After an hour or so of playing in the water and on the playground equipment in this fne park, we hit the road again. A gorgeous blue-sky day watches over us all the way back home.its only a one-night run. in fact, Donna and i usually take this ride in an afternoon just as a break. But this particular 260-mile round trip excursion is something we have been looking forward to for years.im going to remember this trip for the rest of my life, Taylor says to her mommy.so will we, sweetheart. so will we.MaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 19 www.thunderroadswv.comTO ALL OUR BRAVE, PROUD TROOPS... YOURE IN OUR THOUGHTS & PRAYERS DAILY. God Speed You Home. The eaSieST, COrn pUdding CaSSerOle reCipe eVer WriTTen! i found my Moms old, well-worn, all-time favorite recipe book, which seriously, still smells like her famous spice Cake. One of last months recipes were from it, and heres another. Too easy for words.1 Box of Jiffy Brand Corn Muffn Mix1 Can of Whole Kernel Corn1 Can of Creamed Corn1 8 oz. Tub of sour Cream1/4 stick of Melted Butter1 Bag of Finely shredded Medium shredded CheeseMix it all up in a small bowl, transfer to a well sprayed glass casserole dish and bake at 350 for 45 minutes. Remove and cover the top generously with shredded cheese, put back in oven for 5 minutes and its done. Now....i do remember my Mom always shredded the cheese herself and she got the sour cream from the restaurant where she worked. But, with todays pre-packaged goodies, this is literally a snap to make. And....you can jazz it up with chopped sweet Vidalia onion, green chilies, pimentos, black olives.....put your own stomp on it. FeTTUCCine WiTh FreSh MinT & BaBY green peaS1 Box of your Favorite Brand Fettuccine Pasta1/2 stick Butter (or use *i Cant Believe its Not Butter...tastes like butter w/ no trans fats or cholesterol) 1 Cup Frozen, Baby sweet Peas2/3 Cup Half & Half1/2 Cup Ricotta Cheese1/4 Cup Chopped Fresh Mint1/2 Cup Finely Grated Parmesan Bag Cheese1 Garlic Clove; Minced (you can buy skinned garlic cloves in a glass bottle in your produce section, that literally stay fresh forever in the fridge)1 full rounded tsp. Lemon Zestsalt & Cracked Pepper to TasteGarnish: you can now buy freshly shaved, any kind? of your favorite cheeses in bottles in your cheese aisle, again, that you can store in fridge and use as needed. Prepare your pasta as you always do. Remember to salt the water generously. Melt your butter in a skillet over medium heat, add all the rest of the ingredients. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring continually until cheese is totally melted. stir in your hot, drained pasta. serve immediately and garnish generously with shaved Parmesan or use your bagged Parmesan. serve with super crispy & crunchy, hot French bread loaf. Heaven! WhiTe BarBeQUe SaUCe(Perfect for Chicken)1-1/2 Cups Premium Mayonnaise1/4 Cup Cider Vinegar1/2 Cup Lemon Juice2 Tbls. sugar or *splenda for Cooking2 Tbls. Freshly Ground Pepper2 Tbls. White WineCouple Dashes of Worcestershire saucesalt to TasteWhisk it all together in a small bowl until well blended, then store in a glass bottle with tight lid. SMOOTh aS SilK, eaSY aS COTTOn... Vanilla MOUSSe CheSeCaKe1 Pre-Made *Nilla Wafer or Graham Crack Pie Crust4 Pkgs. *Philly Cream Cheese; softened1 Cup of sugar or splenda; Divided1 Tbls. plus 1 tsp. of Real Vanilla; Divided3 Large Eggs1 8 oz. Tub *Cool Whip; Thawed to Fridge Temp., not FreezerPreheat oven to 325Beat 3 packages of cream cheese, 3/4 cup sugar and 1 Tbls. vanilla with mixer until well blended. Add eggs.....1 at a time, mixing on low speed after each added, just until blended. Remove your pre-made pie crust from its aluminum pie plate (that it comes in from store) and place it down into a springform pan. Pour mixture over crust. Bake 55 minutes or until center is almost set. Run knife around rim of pan to loosen cake. Cool completely in pan. Beat up remaining cream cheese, sugar and vanilla with mixer in large bowl until well blended. Whisk in Cool Whip, spread over cheesecake. Refrigerate for 4 hours. Remove rim of pan before serving cheesecake. spread fresh blueberries or strawberries or both all over the top of mousse cheesecake. you are truly going to love the silky-smooth texture of this dessert, but youll really love how easy it is to make. The only problem is having to wait 4 hours to eat it! Really.....stay out of the damn pan! HAPPY MOTHERS DAY! RELAX, REJUVENATE & REFRESH YOUR SPIRIT 20 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010MaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 21 www.thunderroadswv.comARMED FORCES DAYMOTHERS DAYMEMORIAL DAYThe Thunder Roads West Virginia stable currently houses ten motorcycles of many makes and styles. This is an all-brands magazine and the bikes in our garage at the moment represent Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, and yamaha. They are all capable machines and most are high-mileage road warriors. Their odometer readings total hundreds of thousands of miles. Each of the street bikes has the ability to haul us around as we gather the stories for this magazine each month. And we use them all. But one bike in particular has demonstrated the right stuff when it comes to being a motojournalist.The yamaha FJR1300 is a supersport Touring machine whose lineage traces directly back to the race track, with many engine and chassis components derived from the venerable R-1. it is not a bike for novice riders. The engine is a 1298cc liquid cooled, fuel injected, 16 valve, in-line 4 cylinder powerhouse that harnesses 145 ponies with the stock setup. This 2005 model has been ftted with a Power Commander and has been dialed into to make the most of the free breathing Leo Vince exhaust that we have also added. so whats the top end? if we told you we would be admitting to extraordinary speeding charges worthy of jail time. so lets just keep that number unpublished.Even though the power this bike produces is a lot of fun, thats only part of what makes it the perfect motojournalist mount. The bike has tremendous capabilities everywhere you look. For starters, its liquid cooled. That means that it can sit by the side of the road idling indefnitely while we wait for the perfect photo opportunity of the event we are covering. With a dry weight of just over 500 pounds the bike is much lighter than most cruisers, yet the 440 pound load capacity means we can haul a lot of camera gear, hundreds of magazines, and maybe a change of clothes. With large, weatherproof saddlebags and plenty of attachment points this bike is our offce on wheels.Quick stops are an everyday part of what we do when covering stories. Fitted with anti-lock brakes on dual front and single rear discs, this bike halts on a dime. Just grab a handful of brake lever and squeeze with all you have. it wont let you go down. When we took this bike to an experienced rider course, our braking distance was so short that it wasnt even listed on the charts.The 6.6 gallon steel fuel tank gives us a nonstop range of more than 300 miles on a fll and allows us to use a magnetic-mount tank bag for quick, one-handed access to our cameras, even while riding. The virtually maintenance-free shaft drive is bullet proof and smooth as glass. The razor-sharp handling is absolutely sweet. Riding this bike is like fying inches above the ground. its even fun when youre going really slow, and thats saying something.One more nifty feature on the FJR makes it a stand-out for this job. While we are not fans of windshields on bikes, covering the state of motorcycling in West Virginia means we often have to ride regardless of the weather. They can also be very long days in the saddle. There are times when a windshield is a necessity. This bike gives us both options. The windshield in this picture is tucked down so low that it is really just a part of the fairing. But push a button with your left thumb and the shield is electrically raised to a standing position that creates a bubble of still air around the rider. if conditions arent that bad, it can be positioned at any height in between the two extremes.Riders of shorter stature may not be as pleased with one thing about this bike. With a 32 seat height, the bikes ergonomics ft my six foot frame just fne, but at 54 Donna has to reach for the ground at stops a bit more than she would like. But seats can be customized, so this isnt a deal breaker.We have logged over 76-thousand miles on the FJR, and we expect to hit six fgures before this season is out. To date, the only mechanical issue in its history is a build-up of gunk in the pivot bushing for the rear brake pedal. We were even rear-ended at a stoplight by a cage two years ago and suffered only cosmetic damage, although the cagers insurance paid a hefty price for some new fairing pieces.Like most of you, we love our cruisers. There is a stirring of the soul that accompanies every touch of the starter button. The heartbeat of a V-Twin is the rhythmic sound of life itself. But being a motojournalists mount is a job. it requires a specialized set of skills that place emphasis on performance, comfort, and practicality. This yamaha FJR1300 is hired.Why the FJR? 24 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010Pussies & Pups Poker Run at White eagleTNT 26 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010May 1st - Mike Mack & the AttackMay 8th - Dixie MoonMay 15th - Regie Wayne MorrisMay 22nd - Blue Ridge RainMay 29th - Suffer No GuiltMay 1st Red Knights Poker RunKick stands up at 8:30 amHome Cooked Meals - Daily Lunch Specials Friday Night DJ with Justin$5CoverMaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 27 www.thunderroadswv.comA guy is walking down the street and sees Little Johnny smoking a cigarette. He says, Kid, youre too young to smoke. Johnny looks up but doesnt say anything. The man asks, Son, how old are you? Little Johnny says, Seven. Stunned, the man says, Seven!? When did you start smoking? Johnny replies, Right after the frst time I had sex. Right after the frst time you had sex!? the man exclaims. When was that? Little Johnny ponders, Gotta say I honestly dont remember.I was drunk.Malcolm OReilly hoisted his beer and said, Heres to spending the rest of me life!, between the legs of me wife! That won him the top prize at the pub for the best toast of the night! He went home and told his wife, Mary, I won the prize for the Best toast of the night. She said, Aye, did ye now. And what was your toast? Malcolm said, Heres to spending the rest of me life, sitting in church beside me wife. Oh, that is very nice indeed, Malcolm! Mary said. The next day, Mary ran into one of Malcolms drinking buddies on the street corner. The man chuckled leeringly and said, Mal won the prize the other night at the pub with a toast about you, Mary. She said, Aye, he told me, and I was a bit surprised myself. You know, hes only been there twice in the last four years. Once he fell asleep, and the other time I had to pull him by the ears to make him come.A truck driver had to deliver 100 penguins to the state zoo. As he was driving his truck through the desert, the truck broke down.After waiting by the side of the road for about three hours, he waved another truck down and offered a good ole boy named Bubba $500 to take the penguins to the State Zoo for him.The next day, the frst truck driver arrived in town and saw Bubba crossing the road with the 100 penguins walking in pairs of two, directly behind him.The frst truck driver jumped out of his truck and said, Whats going on? I gave you $500 to take these penguins to the damn Zoo!Bubba boastfully replied, I did take them to the Zoo, but I had alot of money left over, so now were going to see a Disney movie.Ever wonder what a mans ultimate embarrassment might be? Id have to say it would be running into a brick wall with a good stiff erection......and breaking his nose. And turn about is fair play...A womans would have to be standing on the scales and literally having to reach down and separate her sagging boobs, just so she can read the numbers.A new Priest at his frst mass was so nervous he could hardly speak. After mass he asked the Monsignor how he had done. The Monsignor replied, When I am worried about getting nervous on the pulpit, I put a glass of vodka next to the water glass. If I start to get too nervous, I take a sip. So next Sunday he took the monsignors advice. At the beginning of the sermon, he got very nervous and so, took a drink. He proceeded to talk up a storm, jitters free.Upon his return to his offce after the mass, he found the following note on the door: 1) Sip the vodka, dont gulp it down, while sweating profusely. 2) There are 10 commandments, not 12. 3) There are 12 disciples, not 10. 4) Jesus was consecrated, not constipated. 5) Jacob wagered his donkey, he did not bet his ass. 6) We do not refer to Jesus Christ as the Late, Great J.C. 7) The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are not referred to as Daddy, Junior and the Spook. 8) David slew Goliath; he did not kick the crap out of him. 9) When David was hit by a rock and was knocked off his donkey, dont say he was stoned off his ass. 10) We do not refer to the cross as the Big T. 11) When Jesus broke the bread at the last supper he said, Take this and eat it for it is my body. He did not say Eat me. 12) The Virgin Mary is not called Mary with the Cherry. 13) The recommended grace before a meal is not: Rub-A-Dub-Dub thanks for the grub, Yay God! Dig In. 14) Next Sunday there will be a taffy pulling contest at St. Peters, not a Peter Pulling Contest at St. Taffys. A fat-chested young lady read an article in a magazine that stated Dr. Bumbutu in Africa could enlarge your breast without surgery. So she decided to go to Dr. Bumbutu to see if he could help her. Dr. Bumbutu advised her, Every day after your shower, rub your chest and say, Scooby doobie doobies, I want bigger boobies! She did this faithfully for several months, and to her utter amazement she grew a terrifc D-cup rack!One morning she was running late, got on the bus, and in a panic realized she had forgotten her morning ritual. Frightened she might lose her lovely boobs if she didnt recite the ritualistic rhyme, she stood right there in the middle aisle of the bus, closed her eyes and said, Scooby doobie doobies, I want bigger boobies. A guy sitting nearby looked at her and asked Oh! Are you a patient of Dr. Bumbutus? Yes I am.. How did you know? He winked and whispered, Hickory dickory dock... 28 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010Kickstart Saloon906 US 1Ormond Beach, FL386-615-0355Open 10a-2aHappy Hour all day long on buckets & draftICE COLD BEER * WINEPOKER RUNS WELCOMEPOOL TABLE AND DARTSATM ON PREMISES206 S. Nova Rd. oRmoNd Beach 32174 386-677-3688Youll never be blue at BabesBabes Blue RoomLoungebest damn wings south of buffalo (take out)mon-Fri wing specials - 3 dz with pitchercloSed SuNdaySPool Big ScReeN Tv daRTShappy hour 5-7pm MONDAY-FRIDAY 4 -7PM2-for-1 Drinks with FREE Hors DoeuvresSANDBARHub of the UniverseHAPPY HOURFull Package7025 A1A So. Crescent Beach FL 904.461.4671Seats & SADDLESMaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 29 www.thunderroadswv.comits fnally spring and a time of picnics, barbecues, family reunions and of course, getting on the bike and putting our face in the wind! However, we need harmony and balance in our lives between our personal, physical and spiritual wants and needs. For example, one day i was polishing on my bike. it was already clean and didnt need any additional attention, but i enjoy tinkering with my bike and found myself devoting hours to detailing it and adding accessories that werent really necessary. i began to think about my devotion to my bike and my devotion to God and a thought came upon me. i wondered how much closer i could be to the Lord if i spend as much time with Him as i do with my bike. With every swipe of the cloth across the gleaming chrome i realized that i better get some priorities straight and acquire harmony and balance in my life.if we neglect our family we will lose our family. if we neglect our friends we will lose our friends and if we neglect God then how can we expect Him to bless us?if we devote a small amount of time to God then we can expect a small amount of blessings, but if we devote a large amount of time praying and reading the Bible then we can expect a large amount of blessings!Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing the Word of God. The more we study His Word, the more our faith is increased. The more time we spend communicating with Him, the more He listens to us. This is a simple message, but yet a sobering thought. Lets enjoy the riding season and our passion for our machines, but lets never forget our passion and love for God. Be Blessed!Jim Jammer Marcum resides in Charleston and has been involved in motorcycle ministry for nearly 15 years and serves as Clergy within Highways and Hedges Motorcycle Ministry.By Jim Jammer MarcumMaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 33 www.thunderroadswv.comBike nites BeginQuaker Steak & lubeConventional Wisdom holds that spotting the frst Robin in your yard is a sure sign of spring. That may be true, but for Bikers the rule of thumb has more to do with spotting the frst Bike Nite of the season. They came in bunches this yearthree of them on April Fools Day.There were a lot of smiles, but it was not a joke at Quaker steak and Lube in Charleston when their summer-long giveaway bike was unveiled. The 110 cubic inch Victory Vegas 8 Ball gleamed in the early evening sun as the assembled bikers got their frst glimpse of it. Weekly contest registration will be held at their Bike Nites all summer long, and the winner of the bike is drawn at the end of the riding season.Across town at Tomahawks, a bikini bike wash was one of the highlights. 125 miles to the northeast, in Clarksburg, the frst Bike Nite of the season also got underway. All 3 events occur weekly all summer long. When the season gets into full swing, expect to see hundreds of bikes at each of these events every week. 34 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010ClarksburgTomahawksMaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 35 www.thunderroadswv.comA Collection of Partsi collect used parts, says Bruce Meadows. As an owner of Hoodlum Garage, an independent bike shop in Beckley, Bruces experience isnt unusual. The interesting part is what hes done with them, and why. i came up with a frame and some parts three years ago, a front end and some wheels and, at the time, half a motor. The kind of stuff you would expect to see in a box at a swap meet.But to Bruce, it looked like a Christmas present for his father-in-law. He told the lucky recipient, i dont know when this is ever going to happen. This was the promise of a custom built bike for a man whose life and giving nature impresses Bruce.Hes taken me in like a son, Bruce says of his Father-in-Law, Ken Ford. Theres stuff that hes done for me that nobody knows but me and him...Hes always willing to give to his family. Bruce wanted to give back, and he knew that nothing could be more heartfelt by a life-long biker than the gift of a custom built bike. Ford, a Viet Nam vet, had a Triumph back in the 60s and is currently riding a Honda VTX.The collecting of parts went on for a couple of years, and Ken largely forgot about the project bike. Bruce ended up with an 82 inch Evo motor in a crate that he fgured would be better than that half a motor he was holding on to. The same thing happened with a lot of the parts, and the bike was continually being upgraded even before it was assembled. A friend gave him the forward controls and another tossed in a unique pair of upswept pipes. Bruce built a seat for this softail that gives it a rigid look, and stitched the cover himself. 90 percent of that bike is used parts, says Bruce. i just used take-off parts. Theres some new stuff, cables and things like thatWith the help of some of my friends, it was like, Man ive got enough parts fnally. so this year we actually gave it to him for Christmas and surprised him that it got done.But a bike isnt done without paint. Bruce reached back to another memory that Ken had of a car he used to own. He told me about a 69 Plymouth satellite, and that was always going to be the color of the bike. it took a bit of searching, but Bruce fnally found the color. Like three years they had that color. its called Turbine Bronze. its pretty neat. But then we got talking about doing the frame and everything that particular color. its a beautiful color, but it looked like it was going to be too much. His painter agreed and they settled on cream accent panels, reminiscent of paint jobs from the late 60s.Bruce Meadows is proud of the bike he built for his father-in-law. it may be built of a lot of used and swapped parts, but this singular machine is an awesome example of how hard work and dedication to family can add up to a lot more than the some of its parts. 36 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010MaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 37 www.thunderroadswv.comit was Easter sunday, and a healthy collection of bikers made a day of it at Longshots Billiards in Charles Town. They were there to attend Mountain Thunder, an event put on by Mitchell and sara Matzek to support his participation in the Hoka Hey Challenge. Mitch is one of four West Virginia bikers who plan to make the Key West, Florida to Homer, Alaska run this summer (see our story in the March, 2010 issue of Thunder Roads West Virginia).The event, which included a 108 mile poker run and a bike show, was also designed to support the American Diabetes Association. Mitch was diagnosed with diabetes last year, and is dedicating his participation in the Hoka Hey Challenge to raising awareness of the disease.Bill Pixler, another West Virginian who is entered in the Hoka Hey Challenge, is also holding a fund raising spaghetti dinner at the Elks Lodge in Morgantown on May 15.HOKA HEY Happenings 38 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010Two Wheels Too ManyParticipants in this Petersburg area Poker Run may be using a couple of more wheels than we usually write about in Thunder Roads West Virginia, but their cause was just as sincere and their smiles just as big as on most two-wheeled runs. 41 participants rolled off 32 miles on their ATVs to raise money for two area residents who are battling cancer.Erica Regester of Moorefeld and Chris Hedrick of Petersburg have found friendship and support from each other as they each fght their own affictions. Erica is in need of a bone marrow transplant and a donor has now been found. Chris is undergoing a cell transplant procedure.They are both in college and are wanting to return this fall, providing everything goes well for them, says Barbara George of Tri-County Honda, a sponsor of the ATV event. They are both very nice and considerate young people. i do ask everyone keep them and their families in prayer.The event generated more than $1,200 for Erica and Chris.MaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 39 www.thunderroadswv.comCindys Bar & GrillRoute 3 (End of speedway)Fairmont, WV 26554(304) 363-0058Across from K&T Truck stopClassics 3 Hot spot Lounge Restaurant1384 Greenbag Rd. sabratonMorgantown WV 26505 (304) 292-8368Affordable Place to Eat! Where Good Friends Meet!www.Classics3.comColts Restaurant and Pizza Park inc.425 s. Main st.Moorefeld, WV 26836(304) 538-2523Dakota TavernRoute 19 North of Fairmont(304) 288-4893Friendly Atmosphere and Good FoodEst. 1964The Dawg House Bar & GrillPool, Darts & Music Entertainment1387 Fairmont RoadMorgantown, WV 265011 mile past Morgantown Mall on 19 southDesperados Bar & Grill35 Potomac streetRidgeley, WV 26753Food Games Cold Beer(304) 738-0010Dirty Dawg saloon1017 s. Queen streetMartinsburg, WV 25401(304) 596-6200www.dirtydawgwv.comDonna Jeans Family Restaurant23480 George Washington Hwy.Aurora, WV 26705 (304) 735-3260serving Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerMon-Fri 5:30 - 7 sat & sun 7:00 - 7Doodles PlaceRt. 50 Augusta, WV(304) 496-9481Fireside Cafe927 North Main st.Franklin, WV 26807(304) 358-3733www.freside-cafe.comFlying W Farmsu.s. Route 50Burlington, WV 26710(304) 289-3005 sun-Thurs 10am-7pm Fri & sat 10am9pmATTORNEYSBurke, schultz, Harman & JenkinsonAttorneys at Law84 Aikens CenterMartinsburg, WV 25402(304) 263-0900 www.burkeandschultz.comColombo & stuhr, Attorneys at Law1054 Maple DriveMorgantown, WV 26505(304) 599-4229 www.colombostuhr.comBAIL BONDSWeatherholtz Bonding306 West stephen streetMartinsburg, WV 25401(304) 267-5888 or (304) [email protected] & RESTAURANTS3rd Base sports Bar & Grille22 Virginia Avenue; us Rt. 220Petersburg, WV 26847 up from the stop light(304) 257-2273 Email: [email protected] Hive Tavern463 Morgantown AvenueFairmont, WV 26554(304) 282-8196One block from Thinkin ink TattooThe Brickhouse Bar & Grill214 Mid Atlantic ParkwayMartinsburg, WV 25404(304) 264-2304 www.thebrickhousesportsbar.comBucket Heads Pub81 N. Dents Run RoadGranville, WV 26534(304) 284-0661 [email protected] Winning Wings and Drink specialsByrds Tavern7699 Hedgesville Rd.Hedgesville, WV 25427(304) 754-6980 www.byrdstavernllc.webs.comChicken Lizards7306 Husky HighwayMannington, WV 26582(304) 986-11582 mi. North of Mannington on Rt. 250BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORYFour Corners Club72 Pedal Car Driveinwood, WV 25428(304) 229-3443www.the4cornersclub.comFoxs Pizza Den646 North Main streetFranklin, WV 26807(304) 358-2118Pizza salads subs Chicken Hide Away Tavern Rt. 50 Burlington, WVNear WVDOH District 5 shed(304) 289-5396iron Horse Bar & GrillHC 84 Box 33 (Cutoff Road)Keyser, WV 26726(304) 788-7533K&T DinerRte. 73 N Meadowdale RoadFairmont, WV 26554, i79 Exit 13924 Hr Takeout service (304) 363-7113Attn. Truckers: Certifed Cat scales On-siteLongshots Billiards76 Wolfcraft WayCharles Town, WV 25414(304) 724-1975www.longshotsbilliards.comLost River Brewing155 West Main streetWardensville, WV 26851(304) 874-3448www.lostriverbrewing.comMelanies Family Restaurant25164 George Washington Hwy.Aurora, WV 26705 (304) 735-3219Good Food, Friendly smiles, Low PricesThe Millstone Barbeque RestaurantRt. 50 West Burlington, WVGreat Pork-Ribs-steak & shrimp and Cold Beer (304) 289-3693Moms PlaceFull menu served 24 hours a day The end of Hoult Road by the Phillips PlantFairmont, WV (304) 368-9223Mountaineer All star Cafeu.s. Rt. 220 south / 2 mi. from KeyserA Family Restaurant with a sports Atmosphere(304) 788-6433 40 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010Nan & Pops Place3485 Winchester AvenueMartinsburg, WV 25405(304) 267-2007www.nanandpopsplace.comPeties Pub & Grill304 Morgantown AvenueFairmont, WV 26554(304) 363-0698Owner Beverly OpasPoor Daves Restaurant and LoungeRt. 55 American LegionPetersburg, WV 26847(304) [email protected] steak & LubeThursday Bike Night starting April 29th2931 Mountaineer Blvd.Charleston, WV (304) 267-2007www.quakersteak.comRoad Hogs saloon415 Clayton streetRivesville, WV 26588The RockLocated on Rt. 11 North of Martinsburg2573 Williamsport PikeMartinsburg, WV(304) 263-5558Rock Forge inn/Haught Diggity Dogzserving WVs #1 Rated Chili DogOff i-68 at sabraton Exit #4Turn left .2 mile Red Roof on rightRt. 7 East (304) 291-DOGZ (3649)star Mercantile, LLC80 W. Main streetWardensville, WV 26851(304) 874-FOOD (3663)[email protected] Broken spoke Bar & Grill14977 sR 55Needmore, WV 26801(304) 897-7706www.oldroute55.comstray Cat CafRt. 50 E. Hampshire square(304) 822-TACO Closed sundayGood Food Good Music Good TimesEmail: [email protected] stray Cat Wing shackBike Parking Outside Dining - HorseshoesNacho Ordinary Mex RestaurantOpen 7 Days a Week at Noon TimeKeyser, WV (304) 788-0760uncle Joes Wood PileRt. 1, Box 400Ridgeley, WV 26753(304) 726-8505White Front TavernPool & DartsHappy Hour Monday & Tuesday(304) 265-2280Rt. 50 West of Grafton, WVWinstons Bar & Grill2201 Pleasant Valley RoadFairmont, WV 26554(304) 844-6872www.winstonsbarandgrill.comBIKER ACCESSORIES, APPAREL, LEATHERS & GIFTSAnthonys specialtyBiker Apparel Leather H-D Boots & More112 Davis AvenueGlen Lyn, VA 24093(540) 726-3080Cool Ridge329 High st. Morgantown, WV 26505(304) 296-5757Mon - sat 11 to 7 / sun 12 to 5Take it EasyDFM special Tee House The Biker shackHelmets shirts Chaps - Jewelry162 Nancy Jack RoadGerrardstown, WV 25420(304) 229-7609 [email protected] View Variety shopWe have everything from A Z, Old and New715 Philippi Pike- East View CommunityClarksburg, WV 26301(304) 622-6710Evel speedCustom Machine & Motor sickl shop7323 Winchester Avenueinwood, WV 25428(304) 229-0987 www.evelspeed.netHawkins LeatherThe Largest Leather Dealer in the Tri-state Area800 Foxcroft Ave. - Martinsburg MallMartinsburg, WV 25401(304) 263-4193Johnnys shiny HogsMotorcycle Detail & Accessories shop532 W. Main st.Clarksburg, WV 26301(304) 841-1437Mickalinas A Mermaids Curiousity shoppeAccessories, Custom scenting and Denim223 Fayette street Morgantown, WV 26505Between spruce and High street, DowntownHours: 11 to 7 Tues - satCUSTOM APPARELFairmont Graphics408 Morgantown Ave.Fairmont, WV 26554(304) [email protected] ARTArt by WeezeCustom art on bikes, leathers, helmets,auto, canvas & muralsMartinsburg, WV (304) 264-4604www.artbyweeze.comCUSTOM DESIGN & FABRICATIONAtomic ironRt. 1, Box 1New Milton, WV 26411(304) 745-3062Wiskybiltits all about the ride.Custom crafted parts made in WV(304) 329-1214www.wiskybilt.comDEALERS & SERVICEAmsoil storeWholesale and RetailMount Clare, WV(304) 745-5522 or Cell (304) 709-1038Best Prices in Townwww.lubedealer.com/frankmanojrBombshell CyclesFrench Creek, WV(304) 300-5133www.bombshellcycleswv.comservicing street Bikes and ATVsEvel speedCustom Machine & Motor sickl shop7323 Winchester Avenueinwood, WV 25428(304) 229-0987 www.evelspeed.netJT Cycle & Hoodlum Motorcycle GarageAftermarket & Custom Parts & Accessories486 Ragland Road, Beckley, WV 25801(304) 255-2468www.jtcycleparts.comBIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORYcontinued on next pageMaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 41 www.thunderroadswv.comINSURANCEMathias & Associates insuranceFarm Home Auto Life - HealthMotorcycle Boat RV insuranceand Retirement Planning(800) 628-3064 [email protected] Hole ResortOpen All year RoundHC 59, Box 39seneca Rocks, WV 26884(800) 828-8478 www.smokehole.comMOTORCYCLE PARTSCycleMart - your Motorcycle Parts storeAll Makes All Models202 Elkins streetFairmont, WV 26554(304) 366-8119 www.cyclemart.netPHOTOGRAPHYVetter Photo1675 Cold spring RoadMoorefeld, WV 26836(304) 530-6855 www.vetterphoto.comSPORTING GOODSDougs sport shopNew and used Guns, sporting Apparel,Aigner Products and Reloading supplies220 North Main street; 743B Hawse PlazaMoorefeld, WV 26836 (304) 538-6496TATTOO STUDIOSModernday Primative Tattoos and Body Piercings1320 1/2 Locust Ave, Fairmont, WV(304) 333-iNKD (4653)www.moderndayprimative.commyspace.com/moderndayprimativeVEHICLE SERVICESBobs Tire service inc.812 East Moler Avenue Martinsburg, WV 25401 (304) 267-2797 www.bobstireservice.netHot Rods Roll Back and Towingspecializing in Motorcycle Towing274 Bedington RoadMartinsburg, WV 25401 (304) 267-5586 Visa & MC AcceptedLeesons import Motors inc.320 W Main st.Bridgeport, WV 26330304-842-5469www.leesonsmotors.comThe Little shop of Harleysservice & Accessories HD Certifed Mechanic44 Bay Berry LaneBerkeley springs, WV 25411(304) 258-3909M&J Motor CompanyLehman Trike Conversions1000 s. Queen streetMartinsburg, WV 25401(304) 262-6200 www.mjtrikes.comO.B.s Motorsports1019 7th streetParkersburg, WV 26101(304) 420-0910 www.obsmotorsports.comMotorcycles shipped FREERuff Road Cycle L.L.C.Authorized Drag specialty DealerTires & service Fast Turn Around2050 Burke Rd. Masontown, WV 26542(304) 980-2005shenandoah Harley-Davidson213 Rolling Thunder Lanestaunton, VA 24401(540) 213-7433www.shenhd.comskips Honda580 south Mineral streetKeyser, WV 26726(304) 788-1615smittys suzuki, Kawasaki, yamaha Rt. 33 E. Corridor HBuckhannon, WV 26201(304) 472-4824www.supersmittys.comTriple s Harley-Davidson308 Cheat RoadMorgantown, WV 26508(304) 284-8244www.tripleshd.comThe Twisted spokeCustom Builds, Motorcycle & ATV Repair97 Milford street Clarksburg, WV 26301(304) 326-HOGG (4644) www.thetwistedspoke.comBIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORYWEB DESIGNMeridian Websites 55 Meridian Parkway, suite 101 Martinsburg, WV 25401 (304) 263-1000www.meridianwebsites.comB & B Appliance RepairMost Brands serviced - 25 years Experience(443) 605-6367 Bill / Frederick County MD(443) 605-6368 Brian / Jefferson County WVB.L BuildersAll types of Home improvementspecializing in water problemsRt 3 Box 8, Fairmont, WV 26554(304) 685-2511JDs Paintinginterior and Exterior Residential Painting10+ years servicing Marion, Mon & Harrison CosContact: Jeff Davis(304) 657-0087 [email protected] - Bikers Against Child Abuse (Inwood, WV)Hot Line (304) 839-7809bacaworld.orgEmail: [email protected] Helping Hands (Old Fields, WV)a non-proft organization enlisting the help of other good hearted people wanting to contribute to the cause of helping others in need. The organization holds monthly meetings and several fundraising rides every year. Donations are always appreciated. For more information visit our website at www.cehelpinghands.com.GWRRA WV-A (Martinsburg, WV)(Gold Wing Road Riders Assoc.)Mountaineer WingsMeets the 1st sunday of the month - 8am at Ryans Restaurant, Martinsburg, WVChapter Directors: JJ & Becky JonesJJ: (301) 667-4040 [email protected] Becky: (301) 667-0121 [email protected] and Hedges Motorcycle Ministry (South Charleston, WV)For more information email Jim Jammer Marcum at: [email protected] SERVICESClubs & Organizations 42 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010How do I get to join you all on a ride?This particular question was submitted by avid reader Ricky P. through our website a few weeks ago. its a question weve been hearing a lot lately. We travel the state extensively all summer long, and having some company would be a lot of fun. The bad news is that theres not a single answer to that question. The good news is that theres not a single answer to that question. There are, however, a number of possibilities.Much of our travel isnt planned. We will be aiming for a story or event in one part of the state, and some twisty little side road catches our eye. The next thing you know, were 100 miles away from where we planned to be. Along the way we may fnd a Hidden Highway or Biker Friendly stop that we knew nothing about. such is the wonderful nature of being a biker. How will you fnd us on a ride like that? Good luck. Half the time we dont even know where we are. But if you can fnd us, by all means, fall into formation and lets go!Were road dawgs, and we can be baited. We are always looking for a new Hidden Highway to ride, a Bike of the Month to photograph, or an unknown event or destination to write about. use our contact page on the website at www.thunderroadswv.com to entice us. Convince us that your favorite road would make a good Hidden Highway, and well be thrilled to ride it with you. Tell us why to consider your ride as a Bike of the Month, and well be happy to photograph you out on your scooter. Give us a reason to actually stop riding long enough to enjoy a particular destination and well meet you there. Get involved with Thunder Roads West Virginia, and well get involved with you.We maintain a Facebook page that we update continuously. if were heading to an event or going on a ride, we always let our Facebook brothers and sisters know about it with as much advance notice as possible. sometimes there are only a few hours of lead time, and sometimes there will be a few days. Keep an eye on the page and your bike gassed up, and you can join us at a moments notice.Then, theres the formal approach. We are looking at a variety of opportunities for formal, organized rides around the state. But its a big state with many possibilities. We could organize rides to major events, like Mountainfest in Morgantown, or the Governors ride from the state Capitol to the summersville Freedom Rally, or any of the dozens of weekend events held around the state each summer.For this last option, we need your input. Where would you like to meet? How far do you want to ride every day? How many days would you like to ride in a trip? What kind of overnight accommodations do you prefer? Are there specifc activities, such as rafting or rock climbing, that you would like to include? The possibilities in West Virginia are endless, and we need your help to sort through them all.so, help us fgure it out. surf over to www.thunderroadswv.com and follow the front page link to our Readers Rides survey. Here youll have a chance to help us formulate the plans for a great riding season. ReadeR Rides with Thunder Roads West VirginiaMaY 2010 Thunder roads WesT Virginia 43 www.thunderroadswv.comMaYMay 1 Morgantown, WVRelay for Life Monongalia County Poker Run The American Cancer society Relay for Life of Monongalia County West Virginia will be holding a Poker Run on May 1, 2010. Registration begins at 11am and run begins at noon from Triple s Harley Davidson 308 Cheat Road in Morgantown, WV. Run ends at 5pm with a BBQ at Archies in sabraton, WV. Donation is $10 and all proceeds beneft the American Cancer society Relay for Life of Monongalia County. For more information call (304) 296-8155.May 2 Bruceton Mills, WVBlessing of the BikersAt the Little sandy Church of the Nazarene. Worship service at 11:00 am Blessing to Follow. Lunch provided at Noon with a ride following lunch. Located 2 miles south of i-68 off Bruceton Mill Exit on Rt. 26. Turn right on the Little sandy Creek Road. For more information contact Chad Harvey (304) 379-8611 or Email: [email protected] 2 Huntington, WV10th Annual Big Eds Burrito RideThis annual ride begins and ends at Charlies H-D. Registration begins at 11:30 am, Ride leaves at 1:00 pm.$25 Fee with all proceeds benefting the MDA. Free t-shirt and Mexican buffet. For more information contact (304) 523-1340 or charlieshd.comMay 2 Martinsburg, WVRed Knights Poker RunThe Red Knights will be attempting a world record poker run and all riders are welcome. Local chapter leaving out of Nan & Pops 3485 Winchester Ave. Martinsburg, WV at 8:30 am. For more information contact Willie Witmer Road Captain (304) 283-2442May 15 Elkins, WVRide for the TroopsThe frst annual RiDE FOR THE TROOPs will be held at the Armory in Elkins, WV, with a rain date of May 22, 2010. First bike out at 10:00 am. The ride benefts the Family Readiness Group. The proceeds will be used for deployed military personnel should a family crisis occur while out of the country. For more information call Becky Ball (304) 269-5180May 15 Martinsburg, WVTri-state Fast Trackers Poker RunLeaving the new Hideaway Club in Martinsburg, WV at noon to support Tri-state Fast Trackers Relay for Life team, poker run with food at the last stop along with 2 bands and lots of door prizes cost is $25 per couple and $15 single. May 15 Martinsburg, WVMountaineer Wings 2nd Annual Poker RunBenefting special Olympics and Chapter A of Martinsburg Where: 54 GM Access Rd. suite K Martinsburg, WV Registration 8am - 10am Last Bike Out 10am Last Bike in 3pm$10 per hand and 50/50 Food and Beverages will be available at the end of the ride (Donations accepted)ALL BiKEs WELCOME!For more information contact Brian McClure at (304) 229-7778May 22 Blacksville, WVChad Ross Clay Battele scholarship Beneft Runsponsored by ABATE Mountaineer Chapter. Registration from 10:00 am Noon at Just One More Pizza. 5 hour ride with stops. Last bike in at 5:00 pm for food and fun at Just One More Pizza. Call Rusty seaman at (304) 798-3310 for more information.May 23 Parkersburg, WV2nd Annual Poker Run for Toys for Tots$10 per person, registration starts at 10:30am First bike out at 11am last out at 1pm Last bike in 4:00 pm At the sixpence 1956 7th st. Parkersburg, WVJUneJune 5 Woodsboro, MD4th Annual 1Lt. Rob seidel Beneft Poker Run1Lt. Robert A. seidel iii is a fallen hero from Emmitsburg, MD who was killed in action in iraq, May 2006 during the War on Terrorism. This ride is in honor of Robs memory. All proceeds beneft: 1Lt. Rob seidel Wounded soldiers Fund http://www.cffredco.org/lw_people/seidel.htm Registration starts at 11:00 am American Legion Post 282 101 E. Elizabeth st. Woodsboro, MD 21798 Registration: $10.00 inc. frst hand $5.00 each additional hand First Bike/Car out at 11:30am Last Bike/Car out at 12:00pm sponsored by us Military Vets MC North Central Maryland For more info or to make a donation [email protected] or [email protected] 5 Granville, WVBuzzo Beneft Ridesponsored by Bucket Heads Pub, 81 N Dents Run Rd, Granville, WV 26534. This is to beneft the Buzzo family who lost their home and belongs in a house fre.Registration from 11:00am-noon at Bucket Heads Pub. 5 hour ride with stops. Last bike in at 5:00pm for food and fun at Bucket Heads Pub. Call (304) 284-0661 for more information.June 6 Greencastle, PA - Martinsburg, WVOperation God Bless America 2010The ride starts at Travel Center Truck stop on John Wayne Drive, i-81 and Rt. 16 in Greencastle. Registration is form 9:30 am to 11:30 am and the ride leaves at 12:00 pm. The ride fee is $15.00 per person. The frst 2500 to register will receive a ride pin. The ride will go to Martinsburg, WV where the riders will meet with veterans for a picnic. The ride will be held rain or shine. The ride will go through some states where helmets are required. For more information call (717) 328-9238 June 10 Clarksburg, WVHogs for Dogs Bike NiteBeing held at Ritzys Lunch. Free food, DJ and Prizes donated by B&B Harley-Davidson. Rain date June 17th.June 11 - 13 Franklin, WVC.E.s Helping Hands Fun FestC.E.s Helping Hands is having their annual Fun Fest Bike Rally at Thorn spring Park in Franklin, WV. There will be music and food available all weekend. For up-to-date information please keep checking www.cehelpinghands.com.June 12 Belington, WVMikey Hart Memorial Poker RunRegistration starts at 10am and goes to 12pm at the Belington Vol. Fire Dept. in Belington, WV. The cost per player is $10.00 which includes your poker hand, prizes, great food and beverages. There will also be a bike show. All proceeds go to the Mikey Hart Memorial scholarship Fund, which was developed to help provide students that wish to pursue an education in fre science and/or paramedic, or frefghters children no matter their feld of study, with monetary assistance. For more information contact Judy Weese at [email protected] 17 - 19 summersville, WVDown Home WV RallyThe GWRRA Down Home West Virginia Rally will be held at the summersville Conference Center in summersville, West Virginia. There will be Table Decorating, Chapter shirt and Jacket, Best Dressed, Accident Re-Enactment, and more. Dont miss it!June 18 - 20 Tazewell, VA5th Annual iron Titans Motorcycle Rally/swap MeetThis 3 day event takes place at the Tazewell County Fairgrounds in Tazewell, VA. Tent and RV Camping/Public showers. For complete details visit www.irontitansmororcyclerally.com or Email: [email protected] 19 Nutterfort, WVHogs for DogsThe Harrison County Humane society and B&B Harley Davidson Present Hogs For Dogs. sign-up from 10 12 at B&B Harley-Davidson. Cost is $20.00 per bike. After ride street party donated by the shinnston Moose Club featuring music by the Road Dawgs. For more information contact Traci (304) 592-1600 or [email protected] 26 Granville, WV4th Annual Cerebral Palsey Beneft Ridesponsored by Bucket Heads Pub, 81 N Dents Run Rd, Granville, WV 26534.All proceeds go to Cerebral Palsey Foundation. Registration from 11:00am-noon at Bucket Heads Pub. 5 hour ride with stops. Last bike in at 5:00pm for food and fun at Bucket Heads Pub. Call (304) 284-0661 for more information.June 26 - 27 Martinsburg, WVThe second Annual Norwalk FestivalThe second Annual Norwalk Festival is a family event held at the Berkeley County youth Fairgrounds with proceeds going to the Friends of the Norwalk Foundation. $10.00 Adults Children 12 and under Free. saturday: Team FMX , a high aerial motorcycle stunt team and Music with J Factor. sunday: Music with The Original Cruiser Band and an 8 class Mini-Rod Pull. Both days will feature a variety of vendors and food, bike show, car show. Raffe for a 1966 Ford Mustang and more. For more information contact Chris Breeze at (304) 267-3140 or Email: [email protected] 26 Martinsburg, WVBeneft Poker Run for ZiggyAll proceeds to beneft Ziggys children. $20.00 a couple $15.00 singlestarts at 10:00 am from Full House Cycle, Winchester, VAEnds at Doodles Place in Augusta, WV. First Bike Out at 10:00 am Last Bike in at 12:00 pmAuction, Raffe, 50/50 Raffe, Food, Drinks and Door PrizesUpComing EvEnts 44 Thunder roads WesT Virginia MaY 2010