Cyclerides.com Weekly Update

The cool rainy weather has made early spring riding a little difficult on the weekends here in Arizona, but from the looks of the week ahead, we have some Chamber of Commerce weather to be able to get out and reacquaint ourselves with the road. You might even be able to trade in that leather jacket for a long sleeve shirt in the mid afternoon to really be able to soak up the sun. I would also like to announce that Jim Moore was high scorer at the first Wii Bowling Tournament at the Sandbar Bike Night with a 215. Congratulations Jim!

As a lover of the sport of motorcycling as well as all brands of motorcycles, I am always anxious to take a ride on the latest creations. So when Matt Lenox of Chester's Indian Motorcycle - Phoenix called me to come take a ride on the new Indian Motorcycle, I was anxious to do that and see how they had done on the 3rd incarnation of the Indian brand. Yes, you read that correct. Indian Motorcycles is quietly back in business after a 6 year hiatus with a fully redesigned 2009 model. While the styling of the bike is still very much the recognizable Indian, the manufacturing of the bike has changed for the better.

I will admit up front that when I got the call from Matt to come ride the new Indian, knowing what I knew about the previous Indian, I was a skeptic to say the least. In other words, this bike was really going to have to blow me away to get my attention. As I arrived at the new Chester's Indian dealership located on the same property as Chester's Harley-Davidson in their own new building, Matt gave me a walk around of the new Indian Chief Vintage model that I was about to ride. After viewing the fit and finish on this bike, hearing about the newly redesigned 105 cubic inch powerplus motor, and learning that approximately 1500 out of the 1600 parts on this bike are new and/or proprietary, this new Indian motorcycle was starting to get my attention.

After being thoroughly impressed with what I had heard and seen on the outside, my skepticism was starting to wane, but the true test was still ahead. Cosmetics are a nice touch in the parking lot, but I was ready to take a ride to see if the new Chief would impress me as much where it counted, at highway speeds on the road. After getting the once over on the operation of this bike, I looked down at the analog speedometer and multifunction digital display mounted on the 5.5 gallon tank to see that we were ready to go. A brief push of the starter button fired up the 105ci air cooled fuel injected engine immediately.

We headed North down Country Club Dr. to the Bee Line Hwy. for what was supposed to be a short ride to get a feel for the bike. I was so impressed with the comfort and feel of this bike that our short jaunt turned into a 60 mile ride past Fountain Hills, Saguaro Lake, Bush Hwy. the Loop 202 and back to Chester's. Since I spend most of my riding time on the road vs. around town, I am really concerned about the comfort and readability of a bike. Are the handlebars comfortable, is the seat hard, does it vibrate, how does it corner? These are a few of the checklist that I run by as I am riding a new bike. Vibration is a key concern with me. And with a rigid mounted, non counter balanced motor, such as this one, I was concerned about the vibration. The Powerplus is not a counter balanced motor, but it is hand built and has minimal vibration. I have ridden many softails that will literally vibrate my feet off of the pegs. There was no such vibration on this bike at all. At 70 mph in 6th gear the motor turns at 2600 rpm and you can see a perfect image out of your rear view mirror. Now that is a smooth motor.

After a stop at Saguaro Lake for some beauty shots of the bike, we were on our way back to Chester's via the Bush Hwy. to try out some twisties on our way to the 202 for some more highway speeds. The balance on this 728 pound, 100 inch in length and 68.4" wheel base bike is absolutely perfect. It ate up the corners in a way that I wouldn't have imagined. Quite frankly, it was easier than my Road Glide through the twisties. Although the monoshock ride was good, it doesn't quite stack up to the dual airshock ride that I am used to.

After 60 miles, there was no fatigue, sore back, tingly hands or otherwise uncomfortable feeling from the ride. I'm convinced that anyone could ride this bike on a long trip with no ill effects whatsoever. And with the seat height of just over 26" and perfect balance, it would also be great for almost any Woman to ride.

I already told you that I had a less than favorable attitude toward the Indian Motorcycle from what they put out in the last generation. So maybe it didn't take much to put me over the top, but I was pleasantly surprised and impressed with every aspect of this bike. The group behind the resurgence of Indian are made up of 2 of the guys that turned around Chris Craft over the last 6 years and a couple of former Harley-Davidson powertrain engineers among others. You can tell that there were several smart people that put a lot of time and money into bringing to market the best possible motorcycle that they could under the Indian brand. With one look you can see that there were no corners cut in the production of this bike.

There are 4 models to choose from. They are all Chief's, but are accessorized differently to give you the Chief Standard, Chief Deluxe, Chief Roadmaster and the Chief Vintage. MSRP ranges from $30,999 to $35,499. All models include 105ci air cooled fuel injected motor, 5.5 gallon tank, Brembo brakes, six speed transmission and chrome everywhere you see. And not only did they come out with a very nice motorcycle, they also have a full line of branded clothing from t-shirts to leather jackets available to purchase at Chester's store.

The Indian demo truck will be at Chester's on March 28th during bike week for you to test ride a new Indian for yourself. These are in limited production this year, each bike is numbered. I rode the 2009 Indian Chief Vintage numbered 46. If you are interested in purchasing one now, call Matt Lenox at 480-888-5352 for a private test ride. Chester's Indian is located right next to Chester's HD at 922 S. Country Club Dr. in Mesa. There are several on the show room floor for your to see. Stop by and check them out this weekend.

For more information go to:

Highlights This Week

Sunday, February 22nd

Chester's Harley-Davidson Lipstick Ride. ATTENTION LADIES!!

Chester's HD has put together a ride just for you led by Biker Chicks of Chester's.

Bike Nights This Week

Wednesday Night

Sandbar Mexican Grill Wednesday Bike Night. Wii Bowling Tournament Starts This Wednesday, February 11th! Ride by the Sandbar Mexican Grill this Wednesday night where the patio instantly sweeps you away to a tropical island paradise as thatch and tin roofs cover the bar. Sit on one of the many high topped tables on the sandy beach or sit at the palapa bar outside and watch TV while listening to music. Or go inside to the dining area featuring a huge bar with 30 HDTV's to choose from around the room all decorated in an island beach theme. Sandbar has a great menu of Mexican food and will be featuring build your own burrito's for $5.00. Choose any ingredients you want off the menu, pack them into your burrito all for $5.00. There will also be $2.00 off ALL Drinks which makes domestic bottles $2.00 and Margarita's $4.00. Ride by this Wednesday night to check out the Sandbar Wednesday Bike Night. Motorcycle Parking Only will be blocked off in front of the restaurant. Click Here to see Photos and details. Click Here for Sandbar Web Site.

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 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.

Dirty Doggs Thursday Bike Night presented by Renegade Classics. The Dirty Dogg Saloon and Renegade Classics of Phoenix announce the start of a Thursday Night Bike Night called Holiday Happy Hour’s for the month of December. Each week a lucky winner will receive a Renegade Classics Gift Certificate along with door prizes, drink specials and of course the Dirty Dog Girls. The hours are 8-10; the Dirty Dog is located on the Southeast Corner of Shea and Scottsdale Road –480-368-8095. Renegade Classics is located at 3102 East Cactus Road in Phoenix and more information can be seen at www.renegadephoenix.com.

Chester's Harley-Davidson Bike Night at Dos Gringos Mesa. Ride by the New Dos Gringos Mesa located on the northwest corner of Greenfield and Baseline in Mesa. Dos is sure to make an impact and add some flare to the east valley. Enormous patio, complete with its own outdoor bar and separate dining areas on each side. Dos is a casual neighborhood hangout with great food and cold cervezas. Feel free to dine at one of our four tops, relax at one of the booths lining the edge or just belly up to the bar. Click Here to View. There will be drink and food specials and Raffles and Fun from Chester's Harley-Davidson. Ride with Chester's from the dealership at 5:30pm every Thursday located at 922 S. Country Club Dr. in Mesa. 480-894-0404.

This Week

Saturday, February 21st

MMA-AZ 17th Annual Freedom Beach Party. Modified Motorcycle Association of AZ Presents the 17th Annual Freedom Beach Party. This is the big fundraiser for the motorcycle rights organization, the MMA. Noon to 5:00 PM at Roadrunner Steakhouse, 47801 N. Black Canyon Hwy, in New River, AZ. Live Music by Fools Life Band. Vendors, Bike Show, Tattoo Contest, 50/50 and raffles. All For $5.00! For more information call Cindy at 623-695-5653. CJ & Betty, 602-788 -2088 www.MMA-AZ.org

Saturday, February 21st

Party On The Patio, for the Patriot Guard Riders. Please join us to help benefit this great organization and all the good they do for our men and women in service. Party from 12:30pm - 4:30pm. Raffle called at 4:30pm. Location is at Americana Tattoo and Chasers lounge Corner or Hayden and Roosevelt 909 N. Hayden Rd. Scottsdale Arizona. The 5 buck bbq begins at 12:30 with burgers and dogs, there will also be a bike wash courtesy of the Dirty Dogg Saloon Girls. A raffle, with items from Bikers Bay, Chester Harley-Davidson, Renegades and more. Live music by the weezul brothers band beginning at 1:00pm and playing till 4pm. For more information call Melissa or Dawn at 602-568-5313 or 480-213-1184.

Saturday, February 21st

Biker Extravaganza at the Trackside Sports Bar & Grill. This event has been cancelled.

Sunday, February 22nd

Chester's Harley-Davidson Lipstick Ride. ATTENTION LADIES!! Chester's HD has put together a ride just for you led by Biker Chicks of Chester's. This Ladies only ride benefitting SWAN "Someone Worth Accepting Now," an organization supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Live Music by Truckers on Speed starts at 11am. Registration from 10a-1pm. Ride leaves Chester's at 1pm. Registration $20 per person (includes Commemorative Ride Lipstick, Lunch, Free Haircuts, Makeup Artists and Gift Bag). First stop in Fountain Hills 1:30pm compliments of Visual Utopia. All participants are entered to win a $100 gift certificate and other great prizes. Chester's Harley is located at 922 S. Country Club Dr. in Mesa. 480-894-0404.

Saturday, February 28th

Buddy Stubbs Hogs and Dogs and Salsa. Don't miss the always fun Buddy Stubbs Hogs, Dogs and Salsa party 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 Hot Dogs, Drinks and Salsa, Live Music, Test Rides, Museum Tours and Great Deals on new and used bikes. Trophy and Buddy Stubbs Gift Card Awarded for Best Salsa. Call 602 971-3400 for free entry and info. Don't forget the FREE POOL TOURNAMENT - $50 FOR 1ST $25 FOR 2ND. Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson is located at 13850 N. Cave Creek Rd. in Phoenix, AZ. 602-971-3400.

Saturday, February 28th

Arrowhead Harley-Davidson Free Appreciation Breakfast. Taking a ride Saturday morning? Stop by Arrowhead HD for a free breakfast on your way out of town. Arrowhead Harley-Davidson wants to invite EVERYONE to a customer appreciation breakfast on the last Saturday of every month from 8:30am till 10:00 am. Join us for a FREE pancake, sausage and egg breakfast served up by Big D's Flippin Cakes. Thank you for all your support and business! Ride by Arrowhead Harley-Davidson the last Saturday of Every Month for a free breakfast. Arrowhead Harley-Davidson is located at 16130 N. Arrowhead Fountain Center Dr. in Peoria. 623-247-5542.

Saturday, February 28th

Chester's Harley-Davidson Ride With Us. I'm always getting emails from people wanting to know informal groups to ride with. With Chester's monthly Ride With Us, this 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 Superior AZ. and is also a benefit for John Sliney. Don't miss this one! 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 49 mile ride one way to Superior for lunch Everyone is Welcome! Ride Starts at Chester's located at 922 S. Country Club Dr. in Mesa. Registration from 10:00am - 11:00am. Kickstands up at 11:30am. This is a FREE ride. Call 480-894-0404 to reserve your spot.

Saturday, February 28th

Skull Valley Poker Run. A motorcycle ride to benefit the High School music programs at Verrado High School. Starts at Verrado High School located at 20050 W. Indian School Rd. Finish at Skull Valley General Store in Skull Valley, AZ. No registration fee. Recommended voluntary donation is $20. Free continental breakfast and prizes. Sign-in begins at 9am. Last bike out at 10am. For more information call Jeff Fine at 623-302-2929.

Saturday, February 28th

Chief Bill Lanford Memorial Ride. Honoring our Fallen Firefighter Brother William D. “Bill” Lanford was the Chief of Buckeye Valley Fire until he was tragically killed while riding his Harley on Vulture Mine Road on February 6th 2003. Please join the many brother and sister Firefighters, Law Enforcement Officers and all of his friends and family in honoring Chief Lanford on this memorial ride. Everyone is welcome – Any Scooter, Hot Rod, or Apparatus, Ride it, Drive it, Push it, or Pull it – Just come and make this a huge, memorable event. Check-in at 8:00 A.M. – Ride Starts at 10:00 A.M. at Station 324: 25206 W. MC 85 Buckeye Az. 85326. Continental Breakfast Provided. $15.00 Single rider, $25.00 Couple. Escorted, 100 mile ride, including a stop at Bill’s roadside memorial on Vulture Mine Rd. Everyone Welcome to the After Ride Party. If any questions please contact Jason at jjessamine@local4371.org or 480-734-3778

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I have some good videos this week. Enjoy!

The beer commercials are at it again. This one is hilarious. Click Here to View.

If you are frustrated by magic shows and always wanted to know how they did it, Penn and Teller show you how. Very entertaining. Click Here to View.

This is a great blooper reel with the theme of people that end up flying through the air. Entertaining. Click Here to View.

Here is a funny compilation of videos named "Having a bad day". Click Here to View.

Until Next Week,
Blessings and Safe Riding To All,

Barry Caraway
"The Road Is Yours - Take The Ride"
www.cyclerides.com
info@cyclerides.com