Cyclerides.com
Weekly Update
2/24/10
Greetings Riders,
What a difference a weekend makes.
This past weekend was as bad as the weekend it before was so good. It is really sad to see motorcycle events rained out or at the least
impacted by rain and bad weather. I've had it happen to me a few times and I
always empathize with those that have put so much work into these events. But,
that does come with the territory when planning outdoor
events. Unfortunately, this Saturday is not looking much better with the
prediction of a 50% chance of thunderstorms. This will not only affect
motorcycle riders, but also golf fans at the Phoenix Open this weekend. So keep
that rain gear handy!
As you know I am an avid motorcycle
rider and someone who constantly strives to cast a
positive light on the motorcycling community. But even
though I know how good, giving and caring most of those who ride
motorcycles are, I am still amazed when we, as a group, are embraced by the
mainstream as a result of our love of motorcycles. And that is exactly was
has happened over the last couple of weeks in a very big
way.
You might have seen the press lately
about the upcoming plans for the Arizona Centennial celebration. On
February 14, 1912, Arizona became the 48th state and the last of the contiguous
states to enter the Union of the United States of America. In February 2012,
Arizona will celebrate its 100th year of Statehood. At the time of statehood,
Arizona epitomized the economic promise of the American West. Rich in natural
resources, the state was earning its reputation as the home of the Five C's -
copper, cattle, cotton, citrus and climate. Arizona continues to be recognized
for its natural beauty, a high quality of life and its ongoing innovation in all
fields of endeavors , from agriculture to technology.
Established by Executive Order, the
Arizona Centennial Commission was formed to plan, promote and execute a
comprehensive plan to commemorate the state of Arizona's 100th year of
Statehood. There are over 63 Legacy projects planned that will
include every city in the State. Signature projects including an Arizona
Centennial Museum, Beautification projects, new historical markers, license
plates, tree projects, etc. There are also 7 Signature Events that are listed
which is where we will all have a particular interest.
Last Wednesday I was invited to
attend the Governor's Centennial Summit at the Orpheum Theatre in downtown
Phoenix. All the dignitaries from cities across the state were
there to see how they would be able to participate in Arizona
Centennial. The number one project listed on the Signature Events was the
Arizona Centennial Copper Chopper and Centennial Rides. The copper chopper idea
was the brainchild of Arizona State Representative Jerry Weiers. Being an avid
motorcycle rider and a real friend in the legislature to all motorcyclists of
Arizona, Jerry thought that it would be a great idea to build a themed
motorcycle to honor the State and draw attention to the Arizona Centennial.
Others on the committee embraced the idea and the Copper Chopper was born.
I am proud to announce that long time
Arizona resident and world famous custom motorcycle builder Paul Yaffe
was chosen to build the Arizona Centennial Copper Chopper. You will
be seeing and hearing a lot more about this motorcycle as Paul finishes
this project. The Copper Chopper will travel the state for 18 months promoting
the 100th anniversary of Statehood. It will serve as an ambassador bringing the
Centennial Commission's celebration, a motorcycle safety educational exhibit and
Arizona History exhibit to every corner of the State.
Culminating the tour of the bike will
be rides that will come in from all over the State and the Southwest to a huge
party in downtown Phoenix with national headliner bands, vendors,
etc. This should be one heck of a celebration for our State. I am also honored
to announce that I am Co-Chairman of the Centennial Ride committee and will be
helping to organize this ride and event over the next couple of years.
The exciting part for me at the
Centennial Summit was to watch Paul on stage with Governor Jan Brewer and Rep.
Jerry Weiers unveil the preliminary drawing of what the motorcycle will look
like. (Click Here for
Video of the unveil and Governor Brewer's
comments) Paul's vision of this bike will be to integrate as much of Arizona
into the bike as possible. The bike will have a copper theme with parts being
machined out of copper mined right here in Arizona. Copper plated wheels made to
look like the Arizona flag, a copper oil tank and a copper air cleaner
machined look like the state of Arizona, among many other ideas. I'm sure when
Paul's creativity really gets going, it will be a masterpiece that we will all
be proud of. The really good news is that someone will own this bike at the
end of the Centennial. Raffle tickets will be sold for the bike and the
winner will be drawn at the Centennial event. See Picture of Copper
Chopper drawing. Click
Here.
As I mentioned above, it is
still amazing to me that the State is using a custom
motorcycle in such a high profile
position for the Centennial. And not only that, embracing the idea
of having a ride-in from all over the state and the Southwest. That is really
cool and something that all of us who ride should be proud of.
You could almost compare the evolving
of motorcycling to country music. 30 years ago, no one wanted
anything to do with country music. Now it has crossed over into mainstream and
is the number one genre of music. Similar scenario with motorcycling. 30 years
ago when you would pull up next to a car on the street, you could hear the
electric door locks being employed and the driver looking straight ahead. Now
people will give you the nod and even talk to you at a light. And with the honor
of having the tour of the "Copper Chopper" as the Signature Event and
ambassador for the Centennial, I think we should all be proud. I am
happy to be a part of it and will do my best to help make this a great
event. More information will follow over the next several months. Stay tuned.
Yesterday I went down to Yaffe's shop
to take a look at the very start of the Copper Chopper. I took
video of the raw frame and got some insight from Paul about what his vision is
for this bike. For all of you motorcycle enthusiasts out there, I think
you will find this video very interesting to see and hear Paul, in his
own words, what his ideas are for the bike.
Last Friday Paul was on TV3 and
interviewed by Scott Pasmore about the Copper Chopper. Click Here for Video.
Highlights This Week
Saturday, February
27th
Don't miss the always fun Buddy
Stubbs Classic Car and Bike Show from 11am to 3pm,
Enjoy Free Food and
Drinks, Museum Tours with Buddy, Pool Tournament
Saturday, February 27th
I get a lot of emails from people wanting to know of informal groups
to ride with.
Chester's monthly Ride With Us is the PERFECT time to take a ride and meet
some new friends.
Every Saturday
Looking for a good quick ride destination or
a great place to meet up with
your group for a ride? Grab lunch before you go!
Bike Nights This
Week
Wednesday Night
NEW!! Starts
Wednesday February 17th.
Wednesday
Bike Night at Legends Bar & Grill in Scottsdale. (Formerly
Brokers). Brokers is under new ownership and is now called Legends Bar and
Grill.
It is the same fun place with great food and atmosphere.
Wednesday is Bike Night, but the new owner is welcoming the motorcycle riders
all the time with specials everyday just for riders. Legends is
conveniently located on the SW Corner of Frank Lloyd Wright and Scottsdale Rd.
Motorcycle parking available every day. Stop by this coming Wednesday night for
the Kickoff Party. Make Legends a stop for your charity ride. More details to
come.
Thursday Night
The Bike Night At The Billet Bar. The
Billet Bar is the place to be for the Summer nights and weekends. Set on the
patio and watch the action. Voted "BEST
BIKER BAR IN PHOENIX" by New Times.
There is no better place to watch all
the Bikes ride down Scottsdale road than from The Billet Bar
Patio. The Billet is ALWAYS packed with bikes Every Day. Stop by
and take a look at the New Flamed Booths on the Paradise Patio. The new bars front and rear provide
spacious seating, fresh air atmosphere, perfect temperature and courteous staff.
The food is amazing and always the latest in cold libations await. You can sit
at the back bar and watch your favorite TV on any of the seven big inch
televisions. Play pool, listen to the latest music and socialize. The front
patio seats over 75 people and is perfect for people watching on Scottsdale Rd.
The Billet Bar is located on 3752 N. Scottsdale Rd. Check it out this Thursday
night and all weekend long. Info: at 480-941-1876. Click Here for the New
Billet Bar Page with pictures.
Every Saturday
NEW!!
Looking for a good quick ride destination or
a great place to meet up with your group for a ride? Grab lunch before you go! Every Saturday from 11am - 2pm head to
Chester's Harley-Davidson for the "Party On The Patio". Enjoy FREE
BBQ Burgers and Dogs with all the fixins', Live Music this week with Jynx
and an Outdoor Sidewalk Sale. Great Deals to be had on some inventory
reduction! Park under the patio, hang out with other riders, meet new friends
and DEMO a brand new Harley-Davidson. Good times to be had by all. The Party on
the Patio will be happening EVERY Saturday at Chester's Harley-Davidson located
at 922 S. Country Club Dr. in Mesa, AZ.
480-894-0404.
This Week
Wednesday, February 24th
MMA and
ABATE of Arizona Present Motorcycle Day at the Dome. The purpose of the
Motorcycle Day at the Dome is to meet, greet and converse with your district
legislators
and to discuss various issues facing motorcyclists
today. Representatives from various motorcycle organizations and legislators
will attend this event. This event is sponsored by MMA and ABATE of Arizona
with volunteer organizations and motorcycle clubs. The date is Wednesday
2/24/10, from 11:30am - 1pm on the Capitol grounds, Arizona House & Senate
Lawn 1700 W. Washington St. in Phoenix. As always. a barricaded area,
reserved for bike parking will be on 17th Ave between Washington and Jefferson,
the full length of the Capitol grounds. Your lobbyists can not do this
alone and we are asking for your help to make this another great year with our
legislation. See flyer for more details.
Saturday, February 27th
Buddy
Stubbs Classic Car and Bike Show. Don't miss the always fun Buddy Stubbs
Classic Car and Bike Show from 11am to 3pm,
We all need a
destination on a Saturday and this is a good one. Centrally located and an easy
ride from anywhere in the valley. Enjoy Free Food and Drinks, Museum Tours with
Buddy, Pool Tournament, and Sales in General Merchandise and Parts. Enter
your motorcycle in 5 judged categories. Best Bagger, Best Import, Best pre-1983
Vintage, Best MMI Student Bike and Best Custom. Enter your Classic Car for Best
of Show. Call 602 971-3400 now to reserve your spot. Winner of each
category win $100 Stubs Gift Card. Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson is located at
13850 N. Cave Creek Rd. in Phoenix, AZ. 602-971-3400.
Saturday, February 27th
Chester's
Harley-Davidson Ride With Us. I get a lot of emails from people wanting to
know of informal groups to ride with. Chester's monthly Ride With Us is the
PERFECT time to take a ride and meet some new friends. They do a great job of
making everyone feel comfortable and welcome.
And it
is FREE. This month the ride is to Gila Bend stopping for lunch at
Harrahs Casino and back to Chester's. Chester's Ride
With Us is quickly becoming a popular event every month at the
dealership. Riders from all over the valley make their way to
Chester's for these rides. This is a good opportunity to ride with some friends
that you haven't met yet. Saddle up with Chester's Harley-Davidson for
a fun ride to Gila Bend and back to Chester's. Everyone is
Welcome! Ride Starts at Chester's located at 922 S. Country Club
Dr. in Mesa. Registration from 9:00am - 10:00am. Kickstands up at 10:30am. This
is a FREE ride. Call now to reserve your spot. 480-894-0404.
Saturday, February 27th
Viper
Thunder Classic Motorcycle Poker Run. All proceeds to benefit the Verrado
Viper Marching Band.
Sign-In starts at 8am. Run leaves Verrado
High School at 9am located at 20050 W. Indian School Rd. in Buckeye, AZ.
$20 donation per hand. Ride to Gila Bend and return to the car show.
Registration includes entering motorcycle into the Viper Thunder Classic Car and
Cycle Show. Need not be present to win.
Saturday, February 27th
1st
Annual Golden RME Poker Run hosted by KFYI. Join KFYI's MIKE BROOMHEAD for
the 1st Annual RME Golden Poker Run to support the members of Arizona's Law
Enforcement Community.
Registration begins 10:30am at The
Helmet Center located at 25225 N. Lake Pleasant Pkwy. (99th Ave & Happy
Valley Rd in NW Peoria) Ride ends with Party & Raffle at Toby Keith's I LOVE
THIS BAR 1065 N. Dobson, Mesa between 3pm - 4pm. Registration fee of $25.00 per
player will go to FOP for Fallen Officers Memorial and covers your game &
food at the end party. Donations being accepted by 100 Club in memory of Lt.
Eric Shuhandler. Call 602-374-6131 for more info.
Next Week
First Friday Night of Every
Month!
March 5th this month.
Motorcycles On Main St. in Mesa Sponsored by
Chester's Harley-Davidson. Riders have been asking for something to do on a
Friday night for a long time and it is finally here at least once
per month. Last month over 400 riders came out to downtown Mesa for a fun time.
Ride to downtown Mesa the first Friday of every month for the Downtown Mesa
"Motorcycles On Main St." Cruise Main St. and enjoy Sturgis Style parking on the
inside lanes. Park and show off your bike. The night will feature 4 Beer Gardens
located throughout the 2 blocks and 4 Live Band Stages. Be sure and check
it out this month on Friday, March 5th to join in on the
motorcycle fun in Downtown Mesa from 6pm - 10pm. Downtown Mesa is located Just
East of Country Club Dr. on Main St. Ride in with Chester's HD. Meet at the
dealership at 6pm located at 922 S. Country Club Dr. in Mesa. Ride leaves at
6:30pm and ends at the Chester's Booth on Main St. Reserved Motorcycle
Parking on the Main St. See Ya There! Click Here for photos from last month.
Saturday, March 6th
Have you ever wondered how much horsepower you
have when you are fully loaded and trying to pass those cars on a slow 2 lane
road? It seems like never enough! But now you
can find out how much you have and where you need to be to get around those cars
in plenty of time. Stop by Chester's HD on Saturday, Marth 6th for a
FREE Baseline Run on our Dyno and let us tell you how much
Torque and Horsepower your motor is producing. While you are there, enjoy
FREE Food and Live Music at the "Party on the Patio". Take
part in the "Guess the horsepower on the turbo V-Rod contest". The person that
guesses closest to how much horsepower and torque gets a $25 Chester’s gift
card. Stop by Chester's Harley-Davidson from 10am - 3pm on Saturday, February
6th for all of the fun. Chester's HD is located at 922 S. Country Club Dr. in
Mesa, AZ. 480-894-0404.
Saturday, March 6th
"Colon
All Angels" Motorcycle Run. On March 6, 2010 we will be holding a Motorcycle
Run with all proceeds going to the Colon Cancer Alliance. The ride
will start at Joeta's Leather, 433 W Main St, Mesa, AZ. Registration will start at 10:30 a.m. with
kickstands up at 12:00 p.m. Anyone pre-registering will be
given 2 free raffle tickets to be used at the Angels Appreciation Party at Post
2 as a thank you for doing so. Your
registration includes the day of riding, a meal ticket redeemable at American
Legion Post 2 at the Angels Appreciation Party and a night of fun with old
friends and new, along with some awesome music provided by Steel
Solace. If you can't ride with us and
would like to attend the Angels Appreciation Party, there is an option on the
Pre-Registration page for $10.00 for dinner and live music only. Also you can
pay at the door to join the party and fun! PUBLIC WELCOME!! All proceeds will
benefit Colon Cancer Alliance, both locally and nationally. See the web site http://colonallangels.webs.com/ for
more information and other ways to donate. http://www.ccalliance.org/notalone_buddy.html
for research and treatment.
Saturday, March 6th
3rd Annual
Car and Motorcycle Show. Presented by American Legion Post 35. All proceeds
to benefit The Veterans Assistance Programs. Registration from
7:30am to 11:30 am. Takes place at the American Legion Post 35 located at 2240
W. Chandler Blvd. in Chandler, AZ. Judging at Noon. Trophies at 1:00 pm. Food,
Beer Garden, Music. Free Admission. Entry Fee: $15.00 per vehicle. Vendor Spaces
$20 for a 10x10. More information contact Justin Phillips at 602-570-0881. Or
John Lundquist at jlundquist@cox.net .
Saturday, March 6th
Phoenix Teen Challenge
3rd Annual Bike Run. The run's proceeds go to the men at Teen Challenge.
Teen Challenge is a non-profit organization that fights addiction
in men, women, and youth throughout Arizona. We are committed to changing the
community one life at a time. Registration and Breakfast at 8am. Run begins at
9am. Start at Greater Phoenix Teen Challenge, 1515 W. Grand Ave., Phoenix.
End at Christian Life
Ranch, 47819 Figs Springs Road, Phoenix. $25 per bike includes breakfast and
t-shirt. More information at allen@azteenchallenge.org .
Sunday, March 7th
Liberty
Wildlifes 3rd Annual Born To Be Wild Motorcycle Run. We've gone to the
north, we've gone to the west and now we are headed to the east and hope you
join us!! Ride starts at Logans Valley Motorcycles 1440 W.
Main st Mesa and ends at the Riverbottom Saloon for burgers at Riverbottom 2501
N. Highway 79 in Florence. Sign up/Ride from 10-11 am. Last bike in by 2pm.
First 100 registered riders receive Born to Be Wild Pin. $20 per person. includes Meal, Music, Raffle
Ticket, and Grab Bag. 50/50, Live Auction and more. Live animals on display for you to see where your funds are
going and a special surprise at the end. Contact Melissa or the Ladies of Liberty Wildlife at
480-998-0230.
Extras
Take a look at all
the new photos posted on the wall. I invite you to post a picture of
yourself by a sign or landmark from a trip you have taken, or a picture of you
on your motorcycle. Or just share your favorite ride with 1600
other motorcycle
enthusiasts.
If you are
not on Facebook, you can still view the page, but you will not be able
to post. There will be a link there for you to sign up for Facebook if you
are inclined.
In honor of the Waste
Management Phoenix Open this week, I thought I would include a
fantastic golf shot. Apparently this was by Vijay Singh who was just trying to
skip it across the water and get to the green during a pro am at the
Master's. Look and see what happens. Click Here
to View.
This is another funny
creative commercial that you will certainly remember. It is G rated, so
don't go there. Click
Here to View
Video of the Week:
This video is AMAZING! Be
careful when driving around destruction zones.
All
information in this newsletter is
Copyright © 2010 BDC Products,
LLC.
Information may be used only with permission.
All rights
reserved.
