Cyclerides.com Weekly Update
10/25/06
 

Greetings Riders,
 
Well, here we are in the last week of October and riding weather couldn't be much better. Still in the mid 80's for us, the 70's in Sedona and mid 60's up to as far as Flagstaff. So if you are looking to ride out of town, now is the time for that layered kind of ride. You might even catch the leaves changing in a few areas. If you missed my last 2 videos, you should take a look at them. There are some beautiful pictures put to music. I think you would enjoy. Click Link for the Schnebly Hill Rd. Video. Click Link for the San Juan Parkway Colorado Video. If you missed last week's newsletter on the ride down Schnebly Hill Rd., Click Here.
 
The motorcycle world in the Valley has been busy this month as evidenced by the record setting 38 events on the October Cyclerides.com Event Calendar. I mentioned last week with the Chester's One Year Anniversary Party and the Buddy Stubbs Bike Week party last year with Branscombe Richmond that the HD dealerships were starting to raise the bar for events in our little town. Well, Superstition didn't let us down this past weekend either as they through a huge party for the thousands that came to see the new dealership and watch a great performance by 38 Special. It was also nice to see Harley-Davidson icon Willie G. Davidson make an appearance at the Grand Opening as well. Click Here for a few photos of the new building.
 
After seeing what has happened these last couple of weeks I can't help but wonder out loud what the other dealerships have in mind for us in the future. Isn't it great being a motorcycle rider in the Valley right now? I mean, what other industry invites you to their store, gives you food, drinks AND has headliner entertainment on a concert stage??? ALL FOR FREE!!! That is usually a $25 ticket and you buy your own food. Things have definitely changed over the last several years. If we were to rewind to the early 1990's, things were quite different. You used to have to camp out, suck up to your salesman, stand in line to place an order for your Harley, take what was available and then 9 months later you would get a call to pick it up. They really didn't have to do much to get your business except open their doors and allow you the privilege of buying one of their bikes. That was just how the system worked. Everyone knew and accepted it.
 
Now...back to the future. With the increased production of Harley's slightly outpacing the buyers, competition from other brands and 6 stores in the Phoenix metropolitan area with 2 more coming in the next year or so, the dealers are wanting to EARN your business. This is great for us, the consumers. But quite different from the order taking mentality of 10-15 years ago. This has been evidenced by the monthly BBQ's, special events and sales that you will find on Cyclerides.com every month. But not only has the motorcycle sales and motorclothes side of the business changed to earn our business, the service departments have also stepped it up.
 
It used to be a 3 week ordeal (or even an unspecified amount of time) to get a service or an oil change. But with the expanded service departments in the mega dealerships that are being built today, you can get most anything you want done within a couple of days, and some of them will even come pick up your bike from you. I have heard all of the horror stories in the past about HD service departments. And even today, as long as there are humans fixing machines, there are bound to be some problems. I have dealt with several of the dealerships in the valley for service over the last couple of years and have been impressed with the level of professionalism and customer service that have been extended to me. The work has been done right the first time and the bike has come back clean. (Note to service departments: A clean bike is a very important issue if you want to get my repeat business.) There have even been calls from customer care people a few days later to see how everything went. Wow! That is a nice touch.
 
My point to all of this is that things in the HD world are improving drastically from even as little as 10 years ago. Be it from competition or a nurturing from Milwaukee, it seems as though the attitude at the dealerships has changed from just hanging out their shingle and allowing you to do business with them, to genuinely wanting your business, giving you a good service experience and striving to earn your repeat business.
 
Some of you are probably reading this right now and saying, "Barry, you are full of it", I just had a bad experience last week. As I said before, there will be mistakes and there will be some employees who still "don't get it", That is a fact of life no matter what you are doing. The good news is that the overall product from the factory is much more reliable than in the past and the level of professionalism at the dealer level is continuing to rise. I just want to give the Harley dealerships, at least in this town, credit for changing a mindset and reputation that has been around the Harley name for over 90 years. Keep up the good work and continue to make customer service and satisfaction a priority. And oh yeah, the parties are getting better too. Stay tuned for the Christmas events and sales coming up. 

See the Extras Column Below for some additional information.


 

Highlights This Week
 
Saturday, October 28th
Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson Bikes and BBQ. Join Buddy Stubbs
for their last Saturday of the month BBQ.
 
Saturday, October 28th
Chester's Harley-Davidson Boneyard Biker Bash. Harley Halloween!
Make plans to catch Chester's Boneyard Biker Bash.
 
Saturday, October 28th
Western Trails Ranch "Monsters Of Metal Masquerade Ball".
A Day of tribute bands.
 
Saturday, October 28th
The Law Tigers 7th Annual Motorcycle Mania. This is becoming a very popular
extravaganza in downtown Phoenix and this year appears to be the best one yet.
 


 

This Week's Bike Night Events 

Tuesday Nights 

Chester’s Harley Davidson Biker Night at the Tilted Kilt in Tempe!  If you are looking for some fun on a Tuesday night, With 2 outdoor patios and plenty of excitement, This place is a good time! The Tilted Kilt is home to the best Scotch-Irish experience in Arizona, with an award-winning menu, classic pub fare, and signature Kilt items sure to please any palate—not to mention twenty four globe-spanning beers on tap!  Biker Night Tuesdays also mean $3 Jack Daniels and half-price appetizers.  And, with a Tilted Kilt Biker Night Card, you receive 15% OFF your total bill.  So what are you waiting for? Come on down and have a craic with Chester’s Harley-Davidson! The Tilted Kilt is located at 660 W. Warner Rd. in Tempe, AZ. Just 1.5 miles East of I-10 on Warner Rd. 480-592-0102. Click Here for Map.
 
Chandler Harley-Davidson Tuesday Bike Night at Nozzlehead's Grille & Pub. Stop by Two Wheel Tuesday Bike Night at Nozzlehead's Grille and Pub located at 4920 S. Gilbert Rd. in Chandler, AZ. Join us for Munchies and Music, Food and Drink, Specials, Raffle Prizes and good old fashion H-D fun! Nozzlehead's is a fun firefighter-themed restaurant that serves the best pure angus burgers and meatiest wings in the valley. 12 flavors of wings! 11 tap beers served out of the front-end of a real fire truck. Hot Times, Cold Drinks and Great Food! Stop by this Tuesday for the First Night!! Click Here for Map. Stop by Chandler Harley-Davidson located at 6895 W. Chandler Blvd. in Chandler for a Nozzlehead Food Discount Coupon. 

Wednesday Nights 

Hacienda Harley-Davidson Bike Night at The Tilted Kilt. Stop by the new Tilted Kilt located at 7077 E. Bell Rd. for the Hacienda HD Bike Night. Enjoy the new Tilted Kilt for dinner or drinks while sitting on the patio large patio or inside watching your favorite sporting event on one of the many TV's inside. Stop by Hacienda Harley and get your 15% off Biker Card for the Tilted Kilt. There will be Jack Daniels door prizes. Free Jack Daniel's Shirts, Hats, Beanies, Handkerchiefs and Bandannas. Hacienda Harley-Davidson and Tilted Kilt Gift Certificates. Take a ride and stop by this Wednesday night. 6pm till close. 7077 E. Bell Rd. 480-922-8424. Bike Parking. 
 

1st and 3rd Wednesday Nights 

Superstition Harley-Davidson’s Bike Night. Superstition Harley-Davidson Bike Nights are back! We’re inviting you to kick back with your buds and take advantage of biker benefits!  We’re featuring a different location every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month!  Wednesday, November 1st we’ll be at "Indigo Joe's" located at 2855 N. Power Rd. in Mesa, AZ. From 6pm to 9pm, they’re servin’ it up right with $1 Domestic Drafts, $3 well drinks and FREE Buffet for all bikers.! Superstition Harley-Davidson in Apache Junction. (480) 346-0600 www.superstitionhd.com. Stay tuned for the October locations.
Wednesday, November 15th: Spirits Bar & Grill located at 9303 E. Apache Trail in East Mesa. One block E. of Ellsworth on Apache Trail. $2 bottled beers and $2.99 burger and fries combo's. 

Thursday Night 

The Bike Night At The Billet Bar. 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 right next to Genesis Custom Cycles 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 and Sunday  

The "Hog Pen" at the Roadhouse Bike Weekend. Breakfast Buffet Now Beginning at 7am - Noon on Saturday! Click Here for your 2 for 1 breakfast buffet coupon good from 7am - 9am. Coupon also good for the Monday Night Football $9.95 Prime Rib Dinner and $2 Domestics. Grab a seat at the new Hog Pen bar rail and watch the bikes ride by. There is plenty of new concrete motorcycle parking right out front. CCR is located on Cave Creek Rd. in the heart of Cave Creek directly across from Harold's. It is a restaurant and bar that focuses on a broad menu of good food and has a large bar for socializing with your riding pals for a good time. It is built to look like something out of the 1800's, but it is brand new. Stop by this weekend for lunch, dinner or just to have a drink and take a look at the place. I can tell you that their hamburgers and steak fries are exceptional. Mrs. C. had the swordfish and said it was very good. Check out the Monday Night Football BBQ.
Live Music Every Weekend:

Wednesday: Live Music with "Easton Ashe" 9pm - Close

Friday: Live Music with "Zimis" 9pm - 1:30am

Saturday: Live Music with "Zimis" 9pm - 1:30am

Click here for the Cave Creek Roadhouse website.  480-575-3098

Sunday

Sugar Daddy's Blues Biker Sunday Brunch.
Sugar Daddy's welcomes you back to riding with the Award Winning Sugar Daddy's Sunday Brunch voted "Best Sunday Brunch" by Newtimes 2006. 
Enjoy a $9 All You Can Eat Buffet, $2 Mimosas, $4 Bloody Mary Bar from 10am - 4pm. Relax to live music from 10am - 4pm on the 5700 sq. ft. climate controlled patio. Riding by later? Grab a quick BBQ from Noon - 5pm on the patio. You can also order off of the extensive menu.Our 5,000 sq. ft. temperature controlled patio has six air conditioning units, misters, and plenty of shade. Sugar Daddy's patio, food and entertainment is becoming a regular Sunday stop. If you haven't tried it yet, give them a try. Complimentary coffee is now served. Make Sugar Daddy's Blues your stop on your ride down Scottsdale Rd. for Brunch or Lunch from 10am - 4pm. Or maybe just relax on the patio with your favorite beverage and watch the bikes roll down Scottsdale Rd.  Click here to see the awesome pictures and details of Sugar Daddy's located at 3102 N. Scottsdale Rd. between Indian School and Thomas on the West side of the road. Stop by and check it out. A great place to hang out. Plenty of Bike Parking. If you have suggestions, email them at sugardaddysaz@aol.com . 480-970-6556.

This Week 

Saturday, October 28th
Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson Bikes and BBQ. Join Buddy Stubbs for their monthly last Saturday of the month BBQ. From 11am - 3pm enjoy a free BBQ lunch cooked up by the HOG Chapter, Live Band, Pool Tournament, 50/50 Raffles, Meet the HOG Chapter and Take a tour of over 50 Vintage motorcycles in the onsite museum with Buddy Stubbs. And while you are there take a look at the new 2007 Harley-Davidsons and the latest in Motorclothes. Ride by Buddy Stubbs and enjoy the festivities at 13850 N. Cave Creek Rd. in Phoenix, AZ. 602-971-3400.
 
Saturday, October 28th
Chester's Harley-Davidson Boneyard Biker Bash. Harley Halloween! Make plans to catch Chester's Boneyard Biker Bash, Saturday October 28th and try your luck at our many contests:
10:00am - Try for the win at our Costume Contest! The costume event is divided into 3 age groups: 12 and under, 13-17, and 18 and over, and we'll also have a Pet category, so if Fido's Batman costume still fits, bring it! 
12:00 Noon - Chuck a pumpkin at our Pumpkin Toss.
2:00pm - Out-eat your family and friends at our Pie Eating Contest.
We'll also have free brats, Italian sausage, soda and water from 11am to 2pm, and for a kicker, you can take an additional 10% off all our already marked-down Motorclothes merchandise!
Chester's HD is located at 922 S. Country Club in Mesa, AZ. 480-894-0404. Click Here for Map.
 
Saturday, October 28th
Western Trails Ranch "Monsters Of Metal Masquerade Ball". Western Trails Ranch is positioning themselves to be the out of town concert venue for the valley area. For those of you that love the heavy metal "Hairbands" of the 80's. This is the concert series for you. 3 Bands Live on stage from 7 pm to 11pm with some costume contests in between. At 7pm it is "Metal Gods", The ultimate tribute to Judas Priest. At 8:30pm it is "Crazy Train" in concert, The ultimate OZZY Show. At 10pm it is TNT in concert, The ultimate AC/DC Tribute with Pyrotechnics. At 11:30pm will be contest awards. $1000 for Best Costume. $250 for Best Couples Costume, $250 for Most Outrageous Costume. $15 tickets online. Click Here for more information.
 
Saturday, October 28th
The Law Tigers 7th Annual Motorcycle Mania. This is becoming a very popular extravaganza in downtown Phoenix and this year appears to be the best one yet. One great Saturday of motorcycle fun combining 2 events - Roar N' Thunder rides escorted by the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office, leaving from Buddy Stubbs and Hacienda Customs USA, and block party.  Registration for rides are 8:30am to 9:30am.  Rides leave at 10:00am and converge to block party in downtown Phoenix for motorcycle parade, led by the Phoenix Fire Department and military Color Guard, along with bagpiper.  For those who just want to attend the block party, it starts at 10:00am to 6:00pm at the intersection of 1st Avenue and Madison in downtown Phoenix (5 streets blocked off).  Special appearance by Michele Smith, host of Speed TV's American Thunder. Arizona Rattlers autograph signing, non-stop entertainment from throughout the day, including exhibition boxing, 3 types of motorcycle daredevil stunt teams, custom bike show sponsored by Biker Information Guide, motorcycle drill team, ongoing live entertainment by The 50 Cal Band and Tin Weasel, Tiger Babes, Elvis impersonator, MCSO Swat Team, K-9, and Emergency Response Team demonstrations, Haunted Jail tour, 60+ vendors, beer garden, all types of food.  Admission only $10, children under 12 Free.  For more information and to register on-line for the escorted rides go to www.lawtigers.com.  Proceeds benefit the MCSO Youth Assistance Foundation providing funds for children at risk.
 
Saturday, October 28th
Keller Williams 2006 Integrity Run. Take a 5 Stop Poker Run to benefit the House of Refuge. Sign-In 9-10:30am at Superstition Harley-Davidson located at 2910 West Apache Trail in Apache Junction, AZ. $20 single/$30 couple includes: Breakfast, Run Shirt (first 300), Raffle ticket, Live Band, & Costume contest at Run’s end party. High Hand wins $250 Superstition Harley-Davidson Gift Card, Low Hand wins $100 Home Depot Gift Card. Costume Prizes for: Funniest, Most Original, Scariest, & Best Couple.
 
Saturday, October 28th
2nd Annual "Share The Magic" Charity Bike Run. This ride benefits 3 Domestic Abuse Shelters in the Valley. Check in from 9-10 am at Chester's HD located at 922 S. Country Club in Mesa, AZ. $20 rider, $10 passenger. Ride End Celebration includes Raffle, Door Prizes, 50/50 and Best Hand at the Billet Bar located at 3752 N. Scottsdale Rd. in Scottsdale. More info: Shirley, 602-541-3507.
 
Saturday, October 28th
Hogs and Dogs Wash and Poker Run. Ride benefits Miracle in the Desert, a program that feeds 800 homeless at Rock Bottom in Ahwatukee for Christmas Day. $25 Single Rider, $40 per Couple. $30 Day of the event. Registration from 9am - 10am. Ride includes Continental Breakfast, T-Shirt, Lunch upon return. Hosted by Rock Bottom Arrowhead located at 7640 W. Bell Rd. in Glendale, AZ. 623-878-8822.
 
Saturday, October 28th
ARIZONA HONORS 9-11. If you haven't heard by now, Arizona unveiled a 9-11 "memorial". This memorial was intended to be in honor of all who died 9-11-01, Some feel that this is not how it turned out. If you would like to see and decide for yourself, come down Oct. 28, 2006, at 12 Noon to Wesley Bolin Plaza located at 1700 W. Jefferson and see for yourself, the disgrace this has become. Arizona Honors is a group that is trying to get this changed to truly honor 9-11 victims. This is NOT a political event, Lets honor them in the way they deserve!!!! http://www.arizonahonors911.com 

Next Week 

November 3-5
Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows. The 26th Annual Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows presented by Toyota will showcase the latest machines from more than 17 manufacturers and more than 800 exhibitors at this year’s show series. The manufacturers have expanded their display by more than 100,000 square feet this year plus Advanstar is launching brand new displays targeting the custom sportbike, ATV/Outdoor, Motocross History and a Welcome Center that will provide attendees with all of the information they’ll need to make the most of their day. The Big Twin Customs will be back this year featuring some of the most unique creations from local and national builders and the shows will also showcase the world’s tallest, smallest and fastest motorcycles! This year’s show will be bigger and better than ever! This year's show will be held at the Cardinals Stadium. Click the following for all of the events and showtimes. 

November 3-5
Western Trails Ranch Grand Opening. Big Party all Weekend! Vendors, Bands, Tons of Entertainers, Starship will be in concert the night of November 4th.
FRIDAY-November 3rd Free Admission!
7:00 pm: Dina Preston Band Contemporary Country Variety Band They just got back from 18 month Tour of Europe entertaining the Troops.
SATURDAY-November 4th Free admission 7am to 5pm
12:00pm - 4:00pm: Dina Preston Band Contemporary Country Variety Band,  Free Hay Wagon Rides 
CONCERT ADMISSION:  $20.00 Pre Buy or $25.00 Day of Event!
You must Buy a Ticket to stay for the Concert! Appearing on The BUDWEISER TRUE MUSIC STAGE 
6:00pm Opening Act: SHUT UP and DRIVE! Rock Band
7:30pm Main Event: STARSHIP with Mickey Thomas in CONCERT!
9:00pm Post Party:
SHUT UP and DRIVE! Rock Band
SUNDAY-November 5th Free Admission!
12:00 pm-4:00pm: Novella Bently Band Country Band This young Lady is destined to be a STAR! Free Hay Wagon Rides
We are located between Surprise and Wickenburg in the middle of nowhere called Morristown. Just 15 short minutes from Bell Road on Grand Avenue or 15 minutes from Wickenburg on Grand Ave at mile marker 123 ½. 623-388-0450.
 
Saturday, November 4th
Shriner's Ride For Kids. Shriner's "We ride so kids can Walk" EVENT. This is an event that you've never seen before. You won't want to miss this one. More door prizes than you have ever seen. They are giving away a 2007 Harley Fat Boy or $15,000.00, many door prizes, 50/50 drawing, Vendor displays, beer garden, 3 bands, food and much more. In addition, take a ride to their sponsors for extra door prize drawings.  Get your chance to win the grand prize, ride pin and patch for only $15.00 or just come on down for the event and get a ticket for the grand prize for only $10.00. This event takes place at the El Zaribah Shrine Temple at 552 North 40th St. Phoenix, Az (between Van Buren and 202 on 40th). For more information, please call 602-862-1081. Tickets can also be purchased at Skunk Motorsports, 480-649-2800, Bikers Bay, 602-923-0114 or Joeta's Leather, 623-979-3335.  Get your pre-registration, ticket, pin and patch. This is a great event www.el-zaribah.org/mcrun.htm.  

Saturday, November 4th
Darrell Ashford Jr. 5th Annual Charity Poker Run. Sign-In opens 10am at Chopper Kings & The Paint Shop, 3232 West Virginia (33rd Avenue, South of Thomas) in Phoenix, AZ. Donation of $25 rider/$10 passenger includes: Ride, Lunch, a T-shirt (while supplies last), entry to the Monastery, & 1 raffle ticket. Run’s End Party at the Monastery in Mesa. We will be having a Big raffle: Airline tickets & hotels, restaurants, massages, house appraisal, Diamondback tickets & many more items. For more information: 480 491-8568 or e-mail: DarrellJrsCharity@cox.net  

Thursday, November 9th.
Cyclerides.com Ride to the Rocky Point Rally. Going to the Rocky Point Rally? Want to ride with others? Join us for the Cyclerides.com Ride To Rocky Point. If you have never been to Rocky Point and want to ride with a group, Cyclerides.com is hosting a free ride on Thursday November 9th to the Rally. Just arrive at Arrowhead Harley, sign up for the $10 Rocky Point Rally poker run (not mandatory) and be ready to ride by 10am. You can all ride at your own pace down there, but there will always be riders nearby as  bikes will be coming from all over the State and California. Friday morning you can participate in the Resort Ride and all of the activities throughout the weekend. Come join us for the ride down. Click Here For the Event Listings. Click Here for the Agenda. If you don't have a place to stay, Click Here to see what rooms are left. You will need insurance for your trip there as well. I would advise that you get it before you leave to avoid the lines to get it on the way. Click Here for insurance, you can do it online. If you have any questions you can email me at info@cyclerides.com .This sleepy little fishing village is growing up and so is the Sixth Annual Rocky Point Rally. Never seen Rocky Point? Click Here for a couple of videos that I did for my Rocky Point Day Ride. 

Upcoming Events 

Just a reminder! Mark your calendar for the Cyclerides.com Toys To Kids Ride on Saturday, December 2nd. This year looks to be the best one yet! The ride will begin at Steele Indian School Park, 3rd St. and Indian School and end at Santa's where we hope to get the whole family involved. The Phoenix Firefighters are helping us this year by arranging 200 underprivileged kids from the Pappas Schools and homeless kids in downtown Phoenix. This will likely be the highlight of their Christmas season. Click Here for basic information. More details to follow. 

Extras 

BIKERS BAY $59 OIL CHANGE SPECIAL! - 10% More Off When You Mention Cyclerides.com
Everyone needs to have there engine oil changed at least every 3000 miles. Bikers Bay is offering an oil change special on Any HD Engine for only $59.00 that includes a Chrome Filter and Semi-Synthetic Oil. In most cases, they will have you out the door in 30 minutes. And better yet, mention you saw this ad on Cyclerides.com and get an additional 10% off your total invoice. That is a great deal! Bikers Bay also does Tires, Brakes, Chrome and Maintenance Intervals. Bikers Bay is the only Ride In - Ride Out Motorcycle Service Shop. Go to either Bikers Bay locations at 1900 N. McClintock Dr. Suite 21 in Tempe or the New Location at 2530 E. Bell Rd. in Phoenix. 602-923-0114. http://www.mybikersbay.com/
 
I'm not sure what it is about talking chimps, but these guys crack me up.
I had this in a couple of years ago, but it is worth another look. Click Here.
 
I've seen some trick bicycle riders before, but this guy is exceptional! I know we are seeing the highlights here. I wonder how many times he has bit it? They should do a highlight reel on that. Click Here.
 
This is a good example of why you should do what a cop asks you to do, when he asks you to do it. Otherwise, you might need a new adams apple. Click Here.
 
For some reason, watching people biff on boats is funny, here are a few that will tickle you. Click Here.
 
As for me this weekend, I will be enjoying the riding weather and taking in a few of the events in town. Hope to see you around.
 

Until Next Week,
Blessings and Safe Riding To All, 

Barry Caraway
"The Road Is Yours -  Take The Ride"

www.cyclerides.com
info@cyclerides.com

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