Solid Disc Wheels—A Big Deal?

I’ve had several comments over the months regarding the solid disc wheels on my Fatboy. Most of the questions and comments I receive are due to the rumor that the solid discs will act like sails if there is a heavy crosswind.

I can say with certainty that I have not been sailing on my Fatboy….ever. I’ve ridden in some pretty poor conditions—cold temps, rain, sleet, snow, hail and heavy winds—and I have never had a situation that felt like sailing.

As a matter of fact, I had the opportunity to get out and ride this past Sunday afternoon and had pretty heavy wind gusts. I was out on my V-Star and did some in town riding then got out on the highway. I discovered that sitting at a traffic light was more of a challenge to stay upright than riding down the highway. I did experience occurrences of being blown around the lane, but I found the wind to be more problematic at a stop. My V-Star has spoked wheels so there’s plenty of opportunity for flow through.

The weather had turned for the worse, so I ended my short ride and headed home. As typical Colorado weather is the sky cleared a few hours later so I decided to get out again; this time on my Fatboy.

It had cleared and warmed up, but was still quite windy. Sitting still was still a challenge, but I didn’t have as much issue with the bike wanting to go over. I was more comfortable rolling down the highway as well. I felt I had better control and actually stayed in my lane better than I did with my V-Star.

The weight difference is only about 60 pounds between the two bikes. I do feel that the additional weight of the Fatboy did help, but at the same time, if the issue with the solid discs were truly there, it would have been harder to control the bike in a crosswind. However, I didn’t find it to be a problem.


If you are in the market to purchase a new bike, then please take all suggestions with a grain of salt. When I took my motorcycle safety course, my instructor (who is a lifetime rider) even commented on the problem I “might” have with the solid disc wheels. He couldn’t speak from experience since he had never ridden a Fatboy. You need to find what fits you and what you are comfortable with. Certainly, your riding buddies will have suggestions and recommendations but you alone know what fits you the best.

If it doesn’t fit you well, then you won’t be happy riding. I have a friend who purchased a motorcycle on the recommendation from her friends. She hates her bike and is afraid of riding it. It’s not a big motorcycle, but it does not fit her well. She was almost lost to the sport of motorcycling because of this.

One of the reasons I wanted a Fatboy is because of the solid disc wheels. It fits me fine and I still love the bike. It’s a good day in Christine’s motorcycle world!

Keep the Shiny Side Up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

Is $35 A Good Deal???

I made my way down to the local Harley Davidson shop yesterday afternoon to order a new set of keys.  If you didn’t know…I lost my key riding down Powers Boulevard on Saturday.  

I found it Sunday afternoon, but it had been run over by the sixty two bazillion cars that use Powers.  It was pretty much squashed flat.

So I take my title down to the Harley shop.  They require “official” paperwork for security reasons.  They punch in the number and look up the key code and shazaam they order my keys.  Keys meaning plural since I can’t order one key only.  I have to order two.  Keys were $16 a pop.

I whip out my handy dandy credit card and do the deed since I need keys.  The parts desk person looks at me and says “don’t you have two keys with your bike?”  I’m thinking….Well, if I did, would I be ordering more keys?   I didn’t say anything because it was a rather stupid question to ask.  

We did chit-chat about how long I have been riding and talked a bit about my V-Star and why I have two bikes.  Nothing really in depth.  Hey, he’s making small talk while punching up my info.

While I was signing my credit card receipt, Mr. Parts Man comments, “Hey, $35 dollars isn’t too bad”.

HUH???

For TWO keys??  I could get two keys made down at my local Home Depot for way less than that.  So how does he figure it’s a good deal??  Grrrrrrrr.   Yeah, I’d be getting a good deal for a set of Vance and Hines slash downs or some chrome thingamabob.  But for two keys??  

He can live in his fantasy world, I’ll live in mine.

When I get those two darn keys, I’ll be sure to have my local locksmith cut me a couple extra ones.  Yes, I’ll admit, I have a tendency to lose my keys.  Mostly in my house, nonetheless, since my son thinks it’s cool to hide my stuff.  That’s where my other key is, BTW.

I have a service appointment on Thursday for my 7,500 mile checkup.  That ought to be quite entertaining, I’m thinking!!

Mountain Shadow Riders Open House

Wow what a beautiful day it was!!! If I couldn’t be out riding, then the next best thing to do is to hang out with a bunch of great friends! The day opens up sun shiny and gorgeous and I ride down to Rocky Mountain Cycle Plaza on a squeaky clean red Fatboy.

On the way down, my Harley key blows out of my pocket so I’m keyless. I discover this when I get down to RMCP and go to lock my bike. My key is somewhere on Powers boulevard. Great. Just what I need.

So I pull the bike in the pack with the others and quit worrying about it. I’ll deal with the issue later.

Jeanne, Josh, Travis and Taunya have the grill fired up and are cooking up a storm. The smell of brats on the grill wafting around a bunch of hot women sets the stage for a fun day. The amount of baked goods is incredible…..I love to bake, but these women all put me to shame. Errr…I have to give kudos to Sweet Cheeks as well. Seems Paul is quite gifted in the baking department. I talked to his better half about renting him and she’s still debating on what to charge me. I’m thinking I won’t be able to afford it if she has to think that long *sigh*.

The Gang at the grill station

Travis, Josh and Nicole

Barb has her table set up for Women in Motorcycling Conference set for August. She’s loaded down and is charming all the ladies that stop by her table. She’s cute with all the membership rockers she’s got attached to her hat. I love talking to Barb. She has so much rich motorcycle history in the Springs. I didn’t know her shop was one of the first women-owned motorcycle shops here in Colorado Springs! She is just a neat lady to know and just as genuine and down to earth as they come. Her husband Jerry is a hoot too!

Barb and Cyndi

Kelly, Jeanne andBarb

We took the opportunity to “try” on the new motorcycles on display. Doesn’t Josh look suave on this Victory? No offense, Josh, I think I’m a better looking accessory *smile*. I was particularly drawn to the purple Victory on the showroom floor, but that means I’ll have to get new chaps!!

Josh and his cool pose on the Victory

I think I look better :-)

Karla and other members are working the Mountain Shadow Riders/Women on Wheels® table. One thing about Karla is that she can sell ice to an Eskimo. She is such a great Director for our Chapter and spends an incredible amount of time behind the scenes doing great work. A lot of people don’t realize exactly how much work she does, but I’ve had the honor of working with her so I’m aware that she’s always thinking to improve the chapter and working towards supporting and encouraging our new members and riders to grow.

The Eagle 103.9 was out doing a live broadcast and kindly extended a moment of airtime to help promote the Mountain Shadow Riders. Now, Karla would have been the ideal for this job, but she politely declined to opportunity to talk about the Mountain Shadow Riders. Kelly, Paul, Jeanne, Travis, Taunya and Lisa didn’t politely decline. They basically said (*^$#^ no!! Gee, thanks guys. I don’t mind doing it, but I know that the opportunity to say something inappropriate might crop up. Where’s Sandy when I need her?? So blurbed about the MSR all the while my cohorts are making faces at me and trying to get me to laugh. That’s okay, I may be ditzy, but I have a pretty good memory when I set my mind to it……

Doing the MSR blurb

Dynamo Dorothy shows up and literally refuses to let anyone pass by without a donation to the Breast Cancer fund or buying food. I know this is her cause and she champions it. I know Dorothy is in her six or seventh decade, but his lady is an active and vital woman. I hope that I’m going as strong as she is when I’m her age. She is such a funny woman and I was caught in her crossfire a time or two. Seems she can give way better than I thought I could. Ouch.

Pitchman Dorothy looking for her next 'victim'

Various members floated in and out all day and we all talked to anyone who would listen about women in motorcycling, our organization the various activities we do and the fun we have doing them. There was a lot of trash talking as well. After all, who can resist cat-calling Sweet Cheeks just to see him blush?? Not any of us, that’s for sure. Of course, we still see him every month at all our functions, so I’m thinking he likes it. Nahhh…we all know it’s because Scooter Gurl makes him!!! HA HA HA.

It was a great day—we talked to a good many people, sold a lot of food, signed people up to WOW and our chapter, and added a couple of people to our Yahoo Group so they can keep up with our activities. Overall, the Open House exceeded all our expectations.

Sandy, JoLynn and Her hubby talking about MSR

I’d like to give thanks to all that worked to support this drive (in no particular order): Kelly, Paul, Travis, Taunya, Sonya, Josh, Karla, Jo Lynn, BJ, Kim P, Pete, Julie, Christine E., Wendy, Dorothy, Barb, Nicole, Loree, Jim, Shari, Sandy, Lori F., Betty, Mr. Betty (Bill), Marie, Cyndi, Bucky, Dale, Kathy, Lisa, and Don

I’d also like to give thanks to our Chapter Secretary, Carolee, for all her behind the scenes work and for the new banner design.

And lastly, I want to especially give thanks to Jeanne for leading and organizing this Open House. Jeanne did an exceptional job of pulling us together and keeping us on track in spite of the insanity of her life.

Good work, everyone, I had a blast and am honored to be a member of this incredibly dynamic and exceptionally strong, vital women!!! My hat is off to you!!

We are having another Open House April 22 at Rocky Mountain Cycle Plaza. For those of you who missed it, please come down and see us. It’ll be fun!!

Oh, and for the record…I did find my Harley key on Powers. I still need to have another made, but I did the loop Sunday and found it. Yay to me!!

Sandy’s Got a New Boyfriend

It’s been a busy new bike season already. The amount of traffic at Rocky Mountain Cycle Plaza was unbelievable!!

Sandy gets to the Open House later in the day. As she is walking up to our group, she starts yelling at me “Christine, come here”! Of course, in my usual clueless self, I’m going “what, what”. She finally drags me out to of the group and shows me a new motorcycle—a beautiful bronze Honda Shadow 1100!!

Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

Sandy has a new motorcycle after all!!! Ha ha ha. All the talk about waiting until Spring. She waited until spring—just this spring not next!!

What a great looking bike with smoke flames! We oooohed and aahhhhed over it like a bunch of excited little girls!! Name is to be determined at this point.

Is there something wrong when we ho-hum over a new boyfriend but get all crazy over a new motorcycle!?!?!?!

I’m thrilled for her! Her new scoot has a windshield too!!

Sigh, new motorcycles all around! Karla had a couple of new ladies interested in her bike!! I did look up the MSRP on a certain yellow Road King yesterday. Yes, it’s the same bike I fell in love on Friday…not knowing that the bike had already caused Karla’s heart to stop beating. I really think the bike is wonderful and the yellow is gorgeous. Karla’s favorite color is yellow so I’m breaking off the yellow motorcycle seduction in the hopes that there might be a new love affair between the two.

As with Sandy, one never knows what will happen next.

Stay tuned for more details!

Keep the Shiny Side Up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

Lil’ Bit and Her New Ride

The Mountain Shadow Riders had our open house yesterday and it was a blast!!!!!! I won’t write about it yet…I’ll put it in later tonight after I get home from RIDING!!!

It’s 8:20 AM and the temp is 48 degrees…what a lovely day!

We have a new rider—well; she’s a rider in training! Jeanne, my hot blonde Dyna riding girlfriend has a 16-year old daughter (Sonya) who is a new scooter rider!! Whoooooo Hooooooo! Jeanne initially wanted to get her a motorcycle to scoot around town but come to find out that a minor can’t hold a full motorcycle endorsement until the age of 18. She can get a minor’s endorsement which allows her to ride….accompanied by an adult rider. She can’t ride alone which defeats the purpose of economical transportation.

She can, however, ride a vehicle that’s under 50cc’s without an endorsement…so guess who’s the owner of a shiny, bright red Beamer scooter??

Here she is test driving a scoot. Mind you, Jeanne's out there being the mom....even up to the point of Sonya riding away....and Jeanne's saying "I can't look, I can't look".

Sonya’s just so very proud of her little scoot and guess what mom and daughter are doing today?? Having mini scooter school!

I can see The Blonde Smoothie Scooter School class of '06...they'll kill each other--ha ha ha!

We were talking nicknames and Sonya said “I’m a Biker-In-Training”. In a flash, I put the initials together: “B-I-T”. I was going to try and spin the initials with a C-H into it, but Sonya is just a sweet young lady. No way would that ever work oh her. Then I realized that “bit” was a word and worked out to be Lil’ Bit for Little Biker-In-Training.

I gave her a ride bell to put on her scoot (we were at the bike shop, so how easy can that be?) so it’s on her bike and she’s good to go. Karla was kind enough to offer to haul the scoot home in the back of her trucklet so it’s tucked away safe in sound right next to mom’s big honkin’ Harley.

So Sonya is a Biker In Training on a Wanna Be Bike!!!

She is going to take the motorcycle safety course in May and she’ll ride a regular motorcycle. She’ll carry the endorsement and am sure she will ride with mom. Especially if the evil girls of the Mountain Shadow Riders can find a beater bike to stick in the garage……

Congrats on your new scoot, Lil’ Bit!! A girl after my own heart—she’s on a red scoot to boot!!

Keep the Shiny Side Up!!

~The Rainbow Wahine

Has a Motorcycle Ever Made You Cry??

From a broken heart?

I was down at Pike’s Peak Harley Davidson trying to get a new headlight for the Fatboy. Seems the low beam blew last week during the poker run.

Why on earth would I run down to my friendly Harley Davidson shop to get a light bulb when I could run down to my friendly Auto Zone when it would probably cost me less to do so? Because I decided to be lazy. It was a matter of taking the darn thing apart and taking the bulb down the Auto Zone or just walking into the HD store getting the bulb and then taking care of business.

Wouldn’t you know that Pike’s Peak Harley was out of stock on light bulbs? At both stores, mind you. Sigh. So I ended up doing what I didn’t want to do and wasting more time that I didn’t have!

Enough to make a girl cry?? Not really. More of an annoyance.

While I’m in the dealership waiting for stock availability, I’m walking around the showroom floor looking at all the new bikes. Back in the corner there’s a beautiful yellow custom Road King.

Sigh.

Of course, I *had* to sit on it. Actually, I wanted to put my feet up on the engine guards to see how I fit on them. After I sat on the bike, engine guards were forgotten. Now I’m thinking I could see myself riding this sweet ride down the road.

I’m also thinking I need three motorcycles like I need a man. Nice to have, but quite unnecessary!! LOL.

I entertained the thought of actually thinking how I could swing another bike. Then reality kicked in and the sensible brain cells took control back. Sigh, it was a beautiful bike and yes, I really really really liked it but………………

Alas, it was not meant to be.

I gave a wistful last glace at the bike, then went back to give the parts guy a hard time of not having a head light in stock. Such is life.

Funny, I was talking to my girlfriend Karla about this same bike and after I got the words “yellow Road King” out of my mouth she knew exactly what I was talking about. Seems he had seduced her as well. I thought I was the first to find love with a yellow motorcycle. I was wrong. I was one in a long list of many………………….

Now that’s enough to make a girl cry *smile*.

Open House Mania

The first 2006 open house of the Mountain Shadow riders is just around the corner. The open house is this Saturday, March 25 at Rocky Mountain Cycle Plaza on Chelton Avenue.

This will be my first open house and I’ll be there early to help set up. We’ll be hanging out, getting the word out about the Mountain Shadow Riders and women in motorcycling. We’ll be barbequing brats and hotdogs and of course have home-made baked goods (after all we are women and love to bake—ha ha ha).

We “officially” start at 10:00 AM. So if you have a spot of time Saturday come on down and visit with me and the rest of this crazy group of women I claim as my friends. If you know of a woman who is interested in motorcycling and has questions, send her down to us and we’ll do our best to brainwash…errrr…educate her! I’ll be around until 2:00 PM but the rest of the gang will be there until 4ish.

Rocky Mountain Cycle Plaza has a great selection of bikes as well. I always enjoy getting down and looking at all the cool Victories, Star, Honda, Suzuki and other motorcycles they have. I avoid the dirt bikes like the plague, however. They call to me every time I go in and for the moment, have resisted the call to go off-roading.

It’s bad enough that I found the local women’s Roller Derby team….

Must…..resist..….Roller……Derby…..should…..not….play…….

Yes, I’m kicking it around but won’t probably do it—exactly when do I have time??

At any rate, if Saturday is a beautiful day and you are out riding, stop by and rub in the fact that I’m working the open house instead of riding!! LOL………

I suppose now I need to go wash my bike.

Bike wash anyone?? I have a red Harley in need of a bath!

Keep The Shiny Side Up and Have A Great Day!

~The Rainbow Wahine

A Question to Ponder

Why is it that when I’m at home and the indoor temperature is 65 degrees I’m freezing?  Yet when I’m on my motorcycle and its 40 degrees and I’m riding and “it’s not too bad”?

Insanity has its privileges, I suppose!!!

Keep the Shiny Side Up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

Deja Vu

Saturday I was riding back from chorus practice to meet up with Karla to go to a stamping party. Stamping party you say? Yes, this motorcycle rider in red has been known to stamp on occasion!

As I was riding north on Powers Boulevard, I was thinking about a safety tip that had been given at one of the Mountain Shadow Riders meeting. The safety blurb covered the horn location. Yes, I know it’s on the left hand signal cluster, but I also know that I’m not as familiar with the location as I am with the turn signal indicator.

Why was I thinking about this particular thing at that particular moment? I have no idea. I suppose it might have had to do with the amount of cage traffic on Powers that morning. However, that normally causes me to pay extra attention to the traffic around, not think of the stuff that went on at the MSR meeting.

As “luck” would have it, I glanced down to my left signal cluster and made mental note to work on knowing exactly where the horn button is. I even made the point to put my thumb on the button.

With that mental exercise over, I refocused my complete attention back on the traffic around me. It was no more than five seconds later that a huge red Dooley decided to change lanes—crossing over three lanes of traffic to my lane—an opportunity to squash my beloved self and Harley into a skid mark on the ground.

Fortunately, I had completed my little horn exercise and was able to react appropriately—honk at the offending vehicle while taking the necessary defensive measures to get out of his way. He did hear me and stopped his multi-lane changing exercise so all ended well.

Why I chose to do that particular exercise at that moment is beyond me. Not that I would have not found my horn button if need be; normally when I have reason to use my horn, I also manage to turn on my high beam as well. It’s not a big deal; however, it tells me that I need to work on indicator placement a bit more.

Which leads into reminding me that I need to look into relocating my horn to a different position on the Fatboy. My inner thigh rests on top of the horn and the only time I ever think to relocate is when I honk….which produces a nice jolt on the inside of my leg. The jolt is not necessarily a bad thing, but I know that my leg placement muffles the horn which is not a good thing.

Does everyone know where their horn button is located? Can you find it without looking or having to think about it??

Keep The Shiny Side Up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

Cold To The Bone…….

Yes, it was! I met Sandy at Einstein’s Bagels this not-so-bright and un-shiny morning. The temp when I left was a nice and toasty 36 degrees and misty. Brrrrrrrrrrrr. I had on enough clothes to dress three people!

Ate a spot of breakfast, grabbed coffee and headed out to Pike’s Peak Harley Davidson for The Cold To the Bone Poker Run. Sandy and I thought we might have a better chance of winning a prize today since the weather was not very nice. I guess the 50 or so other people that showed up thought so too!!!

We got registered and I drew my first card—a lovely four of diamonds. I’m thinking that this is not going to be a good hand at all…..

I met up with Phil and Steve rode up at the last minute, so we all decided to ride out together. Heading out was a bit cold, fortunately, the sun peeked out and it warmed up. Of course, I’m wishing I wasn’t wearing enough clothes for three people at this point!

Our ride took us around town and the various stops we would draw another card. I was drawing diamonds so it was looking pretty good for me. At least I was until I got to Dairy Queen and drew a spade. So much for that…I’m in the hunting for the worst hand except I know that Phil’s hand is much worse than mine!

We get to the end point—Frankie’s Too and the weather is not looking very good. As a matter of fact, it looks downright awful!! As the brave troopers we are, we get inside, get our cards drawn and wouldn’t you know it…Phil manages to have the worst hand and Steve has the best hand—with three queens.

After the awarding of the prizes and raffles, we decided to head out--the weather is really starting to look bad. Sandy does not have a windshield on her bike so she really wants to get home! As we were gearing up, a gentleman comes across the parking lot and advises to stay put for a bit—it’s hailing between where we are and where we want to go. Yikes!! It’s going to be a fun ride home.

As soon as we get out of the parking lot, it starts to snow. I’m glad I have enough clothes for three people at this point! Sandy, on the other hand, has warm gear, but is not prepared for wet riding. Not only that, she didn’t bring her helmet. She's going to have a miserable ride back.

The ride home wasn’t too terribly bad; I was prepared. I knew Sandy was cold; her hair was wet. I’m thinking that we got in pretty good…the weather was starting to really get ugly and we more or less beat it out.

I get parked in the garage and did a walk-around the bike.

Note to self: get oil and new headlight bulb. Steve noticed that I blew my low-beam.

I get inside, get cleaned up and make it back downstairs. Wouldn’t you know it…..the sun is shining.....

Just my luck, eh??

Keep the Shiny Side Up (and make sure you buy the frost-free version. It may cost a bit more, but it is well worth it *wink*).

~The Rainbow Wahine

A Beautiful Day To Ride

Saturday was a really great day today so what did I do?

Ride my motorcycle, of course!

I left my house around 9:30 this morning…down to chorus practice.  It was a clear day and certainly warmer than anything I had ridden in for quite a while.  

I had a chance to ride after chorus practice as well.  It was really nice until 3:00—then the fog came down off Pike’s Peak.  

We are expecting Blizzard ’06 to start today.  At last check, we were expecting a foot of snow.  Here in the Springs, that’s major.  We normally don’t get a lot of accumulation and if we do, then it doesn’t stay on the ground for long.  This storm has a different feel to it altogether.

It’s 32 degrees outside at the moment and I am supposed to meet Sandy at Einstein’s Bagels in about 45 minutes.  Gosh, it’s going to be cold!!!

Cold weather riding has its challenges.  I do not like being cold at all!  However, in light of either wanting to ride versus not riding at all…well, I’m riding.  I’m not sure if that makes me hard-core or just crazy.  Or both.  

At any rate, it’s time to start getting dressed…..

I think they were right in calling this the Cold To The Bone Run *smile*.  !

Keep The Shiny Side Up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

It's Spring Break!!!

It’s 3:30 am and this term is OVER!!!  YAY!!

Doesn’t have much to do with motorcycling, but I submitted my  last paper of my last class just a little while ago!!!  Bonus points because I looked at my schedule and I’m on SPRING BREAK until April 2!!!!  Whoooo hoooooo!!!

After this term, I think I need the break….it will probably take the whole time to get my brain undiscombobulated and back to ‘normal’.  

My ex unknowingly did me a favor earlier this evening by picking up my son a day early so I could work uninterrupted.  So tomorrow I have a free day to goof off!

I know I won’t waste the whole day, but I do know I will get out and ride for a bit tomorrow even if it means just going to the gym.  Knowing me, I’ll get out for a longer ride unless the weather is terribly disagreeable.

I started leafing my engine guards yesterday and continued to work on them today.  I wasn’t sure I would like them and I’m still not sure I’ll like them on the Harley, but since I got most of the metal up I’m beginning to like the look!  Shiny red, gold, and silver metal looks decidedly tacky in its bright, unconventional weird way.  Yep, right up my alley!!!

I reserve the right to change my mind if I don’t like the look, however.

Keep the shiny side up!  Or maybe down in this circumstance!

~The Rainbow Wahine

So Many Remotes, Not Enough Space

Jeanne has this cool item on her bike. Flash the high beam on her Harley and her garage door opens. Flash again, and the garage door closes.

I’m intrigued.

I hear it now—I can go down to the local Home Depot and buy a mini transmitter and carry it with my motorcycle key………….

Except it’s pretty cool.

Handy too. Not to mention that it means one less item to lose. I like operating on the KISS theory as much as possible, especially when riding.

I don’t even carry a garage door opener on me when I ride. I usually have my car keys and I’ll ride up, unlock my van and use the Homelink in my Ody. Except this past Saturday, I forgot my keys. See? Something to remember and keep track of!

I checked out Jeanne’s solution: The Official Harley Davidson Thingamabob. At $126.95, I’m thinking there’s got to be a cheaper workaround. Not that it’s overly expensive compared to any chrome item (or any item branded with the Harley Davidson logo for that matter), but I’m thinking more in the terms of frugality. I can get a mini-remote transmitter from Amazon for twenty bucks!

Sigh, the old HD saying is into play….it doesn’t mean Harley Davidson, it means Hundred Dollars!

And the fact that it only fixes the problem for one bike. It’s another $65.95 to equip my V-Star with another transmitter.

Installation is not a problem; I’ll put the darn things on myself. It’s just justifying spending $200 to open my garage door….especially when I already have a working solution!

Enter the Internet! With a few keystrokes up pops Flash2Pass. It’s the same technology with out the Hundred Dollar Logo on it and retails for $79.95. An additional transmitter costs $34.95.

So I’m out a little over a hundred bucks instead of two hundred. Still, that’s money to reinvent the wheel--just so I can not get off my bike.

I did find another solution from Jollytec. It’s basically a remote transmitter with a pushbutton on a wire. The pushbutton is mounted on the motorcycle—either by attaching it to the handlebars or drilling a hole and mounting. Cost is $39.95 for the pushbutton or $47.95 for the handlebar bracket version. I’m not crazy about having to drill a ¼” hole in my bike to mount this button either….

This is getting to be down my alley as far as pricing. Except I still have two bikes to equip!

If you haven’t figured it out, I’m all about cheap! And I know that the mini-remotes are $20—half the price of the Jollytech solution. I could just get the mini-remote, put it in a skin and mount the thing under my motorcycle seat.


Then again, I do have a full sized remote that has a broken housing, so I may tinker around and see if I can wire the switch to my high beam switch. Knowing me and my simple projects that morph into an unbelievable complex problem, I’m not sure I’ll want to start this one. If it’s a matter of putting a couple of resistors on the circuit, then it won’t be a problem. Somehow, I’m thinking it won’t be that easy……….because it never is………..

I’m going to kick all options around and see what I come up with.

Keep The Shiny Side Up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

Women In Motorcycling Conference

Whew, have a few minutes to think for a change! Wrapping up the last week of school for this term—then it all starts again.

Monday night was the March meeting of the Cripple Creek Women in Motorcycling Conference. I almost decided against going since I’m buried in homework, but I figured that a couple of hours wasn’t going to kill me. I was right—it didn’t.

Looks like there has been substantial headway made—we have several keynote speakers and a panel of women riders put together. We also threw around ideas on short workshops that might work within the timetable we have established. We discussed pins, the timeline, parking issues, and a whole lot of other stuff that goes on behind the scenes.

One of the topics discussed was new riding gear. Kim, the Director for Women in the Wind, was telling us about some of the cool gear available for motorcycle riders. One item was the Thigh Pack II by Sabergear™. This pack can carry some serious gear! As women, you know we have to carry the kitchen sink! Well, most of us anyway. The Thigh Pack II was of interest because with the additional bladder, it becomes a one-liter hydration pack. All this and still tons of storage space!

Kim also brought along a mesh jacket from First Gear. Of course, it’s not time for warm weather gear, but it will be soon enough. Or at least I hope it will be soon enough. I got to try hers on and really liked it! She had the men’s version on, but I’m eyeing that red/silver or white jacket. We’ll see.

We got a good deal discussed and made forward progress. I don’t feel like I really contributed much to the group because I’m new and have never done this type of thing.

No worries, I figured if anything, I can always lick envelopes *smile*.

The conference is going to be in August 16th and 17th in Cripple Creek Colorado. As the details become available, I’ll post them.

Let me get back to my homework.

Keep the Shiny Side Up

~The Rainbow Wahine

If Its Sandy, Its a Boy

Rumor has it that a new member has a new V-Star Silverado…..

Only details are is that the member is a “she”, has been at the last couple of meetings, is a new Mountain Shadow Rider and the bike came from Apex . Using a highly scientific evaluation method, I’m guessing it’s Sandy.

She had mentioned she was looking, rides a Virago, and just had her bike serviced at Apex. Just had it painted too…but when does having service and a new paint job ever stop anyone from getting a new bike?? Especially someone that I think is crazier than me.

If it is Sandy, I wonder what she is going to name her new motorcycle. Her Virago is named BOB (for Battery Operated Boyfriend…you go girl). So hmmm…BOB Jr or BOB 2???? Ha ha ha.

And I’m praying for 60 feet of snow. Heck this woman rode out last month with snow on the ground to show off her new paint job…she’s ride in 60 feet of snow to show off the new addition!

Not really, Sandy, I hope you have a clear weekend.....

If it’s not Sandy, could you please show your face???

Keep the Shiny Side Up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

I'm a Motorcycle Junkie

Miss KayBee, The Rainbow Wahine and The Blonde Smoothie

Can you call this sickness anything else?? Because that’s all it can be if you are out today on two wheels as Jeanne, Karla and I were. It’s only 32 degrees outside. The "haze" in the background is not fog...it's snow!!!

The Motorcycle Safety Course Class of 3/12/06
Today was Mickey’s last day of the Motorcycle Safety Class so Jeanne, Karla and I decided to ride down to cheer her on. Like me, Mickey learned to ride on dirt bikes when she was a teen and decided to get back into it—of course she does, we are all cool biker chicks!

Mickey on her MSC bike

You could not have asked for a more rotten day. It was cloudy, gray overcast day that felt like snow. Did that stop us? Heck no!!! The threat of snow and 32 degree temps was not going to keep us from riding down to cheer Mickey on.

That didn’t stop the other two from griping about it, though!!! He he he…I think Karla held the glove record…I think she had 16 pairs of gloves on!! Not, really, it was more like three.

We were afraid they were going to call the class because of the weather. As we were riding down to Pikes’ Peak Community College, it started snowing. We pulled over, had a debate on whether it would be a good idea to turn around and go home or press on. Are you kidding? We are dressed and ready to go…let’s keep going!

We get up to the training lot and see the class going through the exam. Ahhh, the memories of taking the Motorcycle Safety Course……except mine was in the middle of summer and it was sweltering!!

The riders were doing the Figure 8 segment and it was going pretty well. This particular segment requires the rider to enter one end of a ‘box’ drawn on the pavement, make a figure 8 then exit out the other end of the box. After exiting the box, you ride down to the other end of the lot, enter another lane, swerve and then brake.

One of the ladies did the box, exited and as she came to the swerve/stop portion, locked her front brake up which results in a drop. She took a pretty hard fall too. She wasn’t thrown, but she did get hurt.

A drop is an automatic fail. It was hard to watch as we all know that a drop is something that happens at one point or another. Of course, seeing a motorcyclist taking a fall is never pleasant.

There was another drop at the accelerate/brake/downshift exercise. It’s a straight line exercise that requires accelerating to third gear then stopping when you pass a cone. You have a certain distance to stop. Also, while you are braking, you are required to downshift. When you put your feet down, you have to be in first gear.

Of course, another rider dropped her bike as well. Grabbing that front brake!

Mickey passed and we all went down to Southside Johnny’s for a drink to warm up and lunch. So cheeseburgers and green tea were in order for our celebration!!! Of course, talk was about bikes and all the silly stuff girls talk about. I think the gentlemen sitting behind us were entertained, at least!!

Mickey’s dream bike is the Honda Aero. It’s a good looking bike—and of course comes in purple!!! LOL….we’ll see what she’s going to get. In the meantime, Karla made her an offer on her bike since Miss KayBee wants a Victory King Pin. You go girl!!!

Mickey trying out Miss Kaybee's Suzuki 800
We headed out, but not before we snapped the ride pics. The Blonde Smoothie, Miss KayBee and The Rainbow Wahine all brain frozen from our ride!! It was fun and while I’m not particularly fond of being cold, it was worth turning out to support our new rider.

Johnny was behind the bar and stopped by to give us a shout out. He said he didn’t think he was going to get any riding customers today. He told us that he was glad that he did have some riders come by …girls at that!!

The Blonde Smoothie on her Dyna Super Glide Custom
We geared up and got out on the road. By that time it was snowing pretty well and we had some accumulation on the bikes. Yes, it was time to go home!!! Brrrrr…

The Rainbow Wahine and her Fatboy
I can’t wait until warmer weather comes along!!!

Keep The Shiny Side Up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

Saturday: A Cold Motorcycle Day

I awoke to temps in the mid 20’s and as I was debating on riding down to our Mountain Shadow Riders' meeting, my friend Karla calls me and wants to know if I’m riding.  Snap decision:  yes!  She groans and says she’s gearing up!  Yes, it was cold, but it was only 10 or so miles.  We had three riders:  Karla, Sandy and I were the only ones crazy/stupid to get out in the cold!!!

I’ll say it again:  yes it was cold but I was sooo happy to be back in the saddle again!  Especially my saddle!   It was a great feeling to be zooming down Powers on the back of my not so shiny Harley.  It seems that my resident cat, Shadow decided to leave ‘pussy prints’ all over my bike.  Yes, that can be an offense that the death penalty is the end result, but he means no harm and it’s easily cleaned.    Not to mention the fact that I’ve already done damage enough when I dropped the V-Star and the Harley last summer.  So how can I be mad at a cat that walks on my bike?

Besides, if it’s that big of a deal, then I need to just put a motorcycle cover on the Harley and/or the V-Star.  Problem solved.

We settled down to order and worked on the various issues concerning our little group.   One was voting on our riding contest for the year.  We had several great ideas that ranged from riding the peaks, historical markers, bodies of water in Colorado and lastly the Scavenger Hunt.  I was particularly partial to the Scavenger Hunt since I was the one that put it together.  We have a huge list of items that we have to hunt down. Some are native to Colorado only, but some are just wacky things.  With over 300 items on the list, it’ll be fun to see what people come up with.

We voted and the Scavenger Hunt is the ride contest for ’06!  Since we are required to have a photo of the item in question and our bike (and ourselves if we can manage it), I’ll post them as I accumulate them.   Now, who has a purple corvette???

Another activity that was brought up and discussed was the idea of a blood run.  In short, we will put together a short ride and the end point will be at the blood mobile.  After all, if there’s an accident involving a motorcyclist, chances are there will be blood on the pavement.  So as motorcyclists, we thought it was a good idea to do something that would give to the medical community.  

The state of Colorado does not allow donors to bank blood for a specific cause, but if the chance that we could help one rider is there, then it’s worth looking at.  Even such, if our donated blood goes to help save a life, then I’m all for making the donation!  So we’ll ride down, have lunch, and give blood.  My peers agreed that it was a good idea so we voted to put in on the calendar as an activity in August.  Anyone nearby that would be interested in participating, let me know.   Of if you are too far away and like the idea, put it into play in your neck of the woods.

On another note, my friend Mickey is taking the Motorcycle Safety Course this weekend.  She’s earned my respect since it’s 33 degrees out there!!!  Karla, Jeanne and I are going to ride down to the site later today and cheer her on!!   Is there a better way to show support for a future biker chick than to have a gang of girl riders show up on their bikes?   I think not!!!  

Interestingly enough, there are six females in her class.  Two are scooter riders!!  I think it’s great!!!  I was the only female in my class and I took mine in July so I was riding in full gear in 90+ temps.  

Still, I’d rather be hot than freeze.

Keep the Shiny Side Up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

Saturday Ride--Brrrrr

At the moment it's almost 1 AM, so no, I'm not headed out just yet...

I'm just distracting myself from my pressing homework. Sigh. I just can't get into Union Negotiations....zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

At any rate, the MSR is having their monthly meeting and I'm riding!!! The highs for tomorrow is supposed to be a whole 46 degrees...yes FORTY SIX DEGREES!!! When I leave my house tomorrow morning at 8:30 AM, trust me, it won't be 46. More like 36 if I'm lucky.

Who am I foolin'...I'm riding if it's clear. My Harley dislikes the cold; he's just like his momma.

I'll have some pics as I will remember to pack my cam and it's charged.

Until then--Keep the Shiny Side Up (and stay warm).

~The Rainbow Wahine

Walter's Bike...What a Hottie!!

Walter’s dad (aka MadDog) sent me a better photo of Walter and his bike!

Wow…a ‘49 Indian? This dude has got my eye, that’s for sure!!! This photo shows Sam Memmolo of Speed Vision TV giving Walter a trophy!

Walter evidently is a serious rider. He has over 100K miles on a bike…YOWZA!

I love meeting all the people that have integrated motorcycling into their lifestyle. Even the four-legged ones!

I wonder who else out there brings their four-legged family members with them?

Keep the Shiny Side Up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

A Ride Invite From Walter

I got a really cool ride invite by the Georgia Misfits riding group. Check out their website, I think it’s really great.

My response was that I’d look them up when my travels take me to Georgia. As typical of most riders, they normally send me a pic of themselves and their ride and Walter was no exception. You can’t make out much of his motorcycle, but his friends certainly make up for it!!

I’m honored to have garnered an invite from Walter! I hope I get the honor of riding in with him and his group. He looks mighty hot in his riding gear…check him at the Georgia Misfits site!!! The picture up top doesn’t do him justice at all!!

Keep the Shiny Side Up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

Just Another Saturday Afternoon Spin

I was fortunate to spend the weekend in San Diego and ride!

It was a typical Christine trip. My mishaps started in Denver when I missed my flight by six minutes. Yes, SIX minutes! I was there on time; I had to wait forever for the shuttle bus to take me to the terminal. Ahh, well, there was another flight out so I got to fly through Las Vegas instead of Phoenix and get to San Diego at 1 AM and immediately to bed. I have to give props to Marty for his patience in the scheduling snafu.

Up and out early the next morning and down to the bike shop to pick up the bike I’m riding. It’s a gorgeous day—a little cool for my liking, however, in comparison to riding in March in Colorado, it's a perfect day! I get an idea of the coolness while I’m on the back of Marty’s Fatboy—yes you did read that right—I rode on the back to get down to the shop.

While it’s fun to ride two-up, I’m thinking the whole time that I need to be the number one rider, LOL. It’s just not the same.

We make our way down to the bike shop and I get to meet the machinery that will accompany me on my journey of the California roads--….a beautiful ’05 Fatboy—a chrome and black motorcycle that shouts out its message in its typical bad boy way! Yes, I am a happy girl indeed!

Get all the necessary paperwork done and the two minute go over on the bike; I gear up and off we go. I missed my windshield—screaming up I-5 without a windshield was an exercise in upper body strength. I noted that I again am reminded why I ride with my shield on, but hey, I was happy—I am riding my own so it’s a minor inconvenience.

We set off northbound and ride up the coastline highway. It’s a beautiful ride and really not too much traffic to worry about. We stopped at a beach park for a rest stop and photo opportunity only to discover that I didn’t have a charge on my camera…..so no photos on this trip for me. Oh well…next time!

Don’t ask me where I went…I am the lost girl so I have no idea where we rode. I believe our end point on the coast was Oceanside and then we headed east and rode the hills. Now THAT was fun!! Not as big as the twisters in the Rockies, but fun nonetheless!!

Rode out the daylight and got in at the beginning of evening.

Parked the bike; got cleaned up for dinner and headed out to the Harrah’s for dinner and some card playing.

What a great night! I lost my allocated cash; I should have gotten out when I was ahead, but I was having way too much fun! Such is life.

Southern California is indeed a beautiful place to ride and I hope that I get to ride it again in the near future. Of course, there are other roads that I’d like to see, but I don’t think I got a full taste of what’s out West….just a teaser. I’ll take it…gotta keep the rider in red coming back, eh?

Keep the shiny side up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

Meeting Friends Everywhere

The Great Derby Cover Experiment is about to begin!

Alright, I’ll admit it, I’m addicted to rhinestones! While I like my leafing job on my derby cover, I’ve been racking my brains on how to put rhinestones on. I know I’ll need a high-temperature glue on…and I know that it exists.

NASA has to keep those shuttle tiles on somehow, eh??

So I picked up a nused derby cover off e-Bay and am waiting for it to make its way to my house. The seller asked me yesterday if I rode a Harley Davidson. Come to find out, he has a group of riders doing a state ride this summer and asked if I want to ride in with them.

Cool! Get me the details and I’ll round up my friends and we’ll get out for a spin!

I think it’s great that I’m making friends and not even riding!

Keep the shiny side up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

What’s In Your Saddlebags, Part II…“Just In Case”?

When I posted my list of things that I carry in my saddlebags a few days ago, I was surprised at the comments regarding “just in case” stuff.

What is just in case stuff and how far are we supposed to anticipate things to happen? Hmmm…

When I lived in Austin, Texas, I worked for the corporate office of a major home furnishings retailer. My job function required 80 % travel time so I was always gone. In short, I had to haul around several suits (and shoes), clothes to work in the warehouse racks (and shoes), workout gear (and shoes), and loafing clothes (and shoes). Not to mention my toiletries and all the other ‘woman’ gear. Add my laptop, my briefcase, and my purse.

Oh, I hated schlepping all that gear.

I learned really quickly how to consolidate my gear and what was REALLY necessary. Yes, I still continued to haul around four or five pairs of shoes and the necessary clothing, but cutting out the ‘what if’ stuff really helped reduce the amount of what I carried.

Where do you draw the line at “what if”? Everything in my saddlebag I use. If it’s in there and I haven’t used it ever then out it goes. I can’t ever think of a time that I really needed something I didn’t bring along and it caused a negative experience in a ride.

In my riding circle, I’m known as the Lost Girl. Not only does that apply with my innate ability to get lost going half a block, I tend to lose stuff too. So if I don’t bring extra stuff, I have less stuff to keep track of and/or lose. Or have stolen.

Besides, I need one saddlebag to be partly empty. For all the stuff I buy during the ride :-). There’s nothing worse to going somewhere fully packed out and not being able to find room to bring anything back.

Keep the shiny side up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

Which Motorcycles Do Thieves Want?

Continuing on yesterday’s comments on the top and bottom cities for crashes and thefts, I found this article from Progressive regarding the top and bottom five models of motorcycles stolen and crashed.

Interestingly enough, the top five motorcycles to be stolen are sport motorcycles or crotch rockets. The bottom five are cruisers.

Only one Harley makes the list and it’s in the bottom five to be crashed. While my V-Star is least “likely” to be stolen, my Fatboy makes it higher on the list…but not at the top.

I'd like to find the full list just to see where I rank.

At any rate, the same common sense things apply…do all you can do to discourage thieves. If they want it bad enough, they’ll get it. You’ll just want to give as much of a fight as you can. This isn’t about a piece of machinery; it’s an extension of our personalities!

Keep the shiny side up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

Theft Rates and Crash Statistics

Thanks to Lawrence at Biker Diaries for giving me the heads up on this interesting blurb of information!

It seems that the folks at Progressive Insurance have analyzed their motorcycle claim data on theft and crashes and published their findings. Lawrence does an excellent job of talking about the top and bottom 10 of both crashes and thefts, so if you want to read his take on it, please check out his blog.

Naturally, I’m curious to see where the Springs ranks so I check out Progressive's full list. This is the top 100 of crashes and thefts of motorcycles of populations over 500,000. For population size, Colorado Springs ranks 79th. For collisions, the Springs ranks in at 20th and for thefts it is 40th.

I wasn’t surprised at what I found. Seeing that Honolulu is ranked number one for motorcycle theft is not surprising since I’ve had the opportunity to live and insure a bike in Hawaii. Yes, the premium is expensive! The other cities that follow are a bit surprising since the percentages don’t necessarily follow the population ranking. This is a handy reminder to remember to take precautions to secure your motorcycle when out traveling this summer.

The crash ranking was quite interesting. Since I’ve driven in most of the cities, the list makes sense.

What concerns me at the moment is that I will be riding when I go to San Diego next month. I was surprised to see how high it ranked in both lists.

Finally, this should serve as a reminder to always exercise extreme caution when riding and to be sure to secure your bike when parking.

Of course, this doesn’t necessarily mean anything as my fellow rider friend Bland can attest to. His beloved motorcycle was stolen last summer. Ouch.

Stay safe and secure and as always, keep the shiny side up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

February Family Dinner Night

The Mountain Shadow Riders' Family Dinner Night was Friday night. It's always good fun to get together with everyone and eat and talk trash!!

Our get together was at Rita's Fajitas. We had the whole room to ourselves, which was a good thing since we tend to get a little (ha!) rowdy. At one point Karla was laughing so hard that she almost snorted an onion of of her nose. That's what got Kelly laughing....

Onion-snorting Karla is on the right

Kudos for riders Travis, Taunya, Sandy, Steve and Julie for riding. Temps were very cold! Julie has a new motorcycle so of course she HAD to ride (I would have done it too, LOL). She's on a very nice Boulevard C50!!!

Webmistress and Secretary

Hopefully next month it'll be warm enough to ride and we can all roll down to the next restaurant on our bikes. It's always funny when we do. Imagine, a group of twenty or thirty women (and a couple of guys too), all leather-clad, on motorcycles, pulling up to a local eatery here in town.

Okay, for some of you, it might be your wildest dream! It's still a bit of a novelty here when we go roaring down the street!

It's fun, though, as you well know. If you don't know.... then get on a bike and come down and see us!!

Keep the shiny side up!

~The Rainbow Wahine

What's In Your Saddle Bags?

It’s already started. The bitty bag noise. He he he. I knew someone would say something about it and it only took one day!

“Gee, those are some tiny saddlebags you have on your bike.”

Yes, they are. I happen to LIKE them!

If you didn't know, I installed my Saddlebags on my Harley on Saturday.

I don’t feel the need or have the desire to carry around the kitchen sink on the back of my motorcycle. In my typical female-ness—if I have the space, I need to fill it....to the brim.

So, what’s in my right saddlebag (feel like you are peeking into someone’s medicine cabinet when you use their restroom?)……

Rain gear, (top and bottom)
Sun block
Map book
Registration, proof of insurance, emergency contact card
Winter gloves
Gauntlets
Neoprene gloves
Ear warmer
Neck gaiter
Riding lenses (clear, yellow, bronze)
12-volt lead w/phone and iPod charging cable (I moved it from under my tank to my bag)
Ziploc bags
Couple of grocery bags
Small cosmetic bag—‘girl stuff’, couple of granola bars, Kleenex, baby wipes, bandaids, benedryl, extra contact lens, case, and lens solution, toothbrush, toothpaste, and tylenol.
Couple of tools

Left saddlebag:

Cargo net
Steel cable/lock
Bungee cords

My right bag is full, my left bag is basically empty. I can put my jacket liner, extra shirt and stuff I normally don’t carry as needed. I use the steel cable and thread it through my leather jacket arms and wrap it around the one saddle bag. It secures the jacket to the bike and locks the bag as well.

What else do I need?? I can’t think of anything else.

Besides, if I ever need to go somewhere where there is no place to buy anything, I’ll just invite my friend Karla along. She carries everything!!!

Keep the shiny side up!

Car VS Motorcycle...What It Is Like

I don’t know, but Dawn does. She’s a motorcycle rider in California. This is an amazing story and the video footage is incredible. You can read her story as well. She gives an amazing analysis on the breakdown. I won’t go into it since the story is readily available.

Just check it out. Luck, skill, intuition, karma….I hope that I do as well as she does if I’m ever in that situation.

It is not for the faint of heart either.

Frames, Saddlebags, Primer and Riding!

I rode this afternoon! Yipee!!!

I left the house early this afternoon; my thermometer said 34 degrees…

We had a high of 41. I’ll take it……..it was clear.

I didn’t go far….I made it to the Harley Store. I needed to get my saddlebags on my bike and have been putting it off. I needed the support frames and finally the dealership had them in stock. Of course, I could have ordered them in. Truth be told, I always found something else to buy instead!

Of course, the frames aren’t compatible with the quick-release sissy bar. Why is that so? Probably so I could be talked into getting something more expensive!

After tinkering around a bit, I figured out a work around. For once, it was a cheap fix. Cost me all of $1.50! Score one for the girl Harley rider in red!

My bags are really cool too. They are really, really, really old! They aren’t overly humongous either, which is a good thing for me. I carry a small handbag on purpose. The larger it gets, the more stuff I end up hauling around. So the smaller bag forces me to consolidate and keep it simple. The bags, being as old as they are—are also unique…I’ve never seen any like them!

I can now take the backpack off the back of my bike. I like it…it’s small and carries everything I need. Actually, I’ll move it to the V-Star.

I also got the primer on my engine guard. It’ll dry and hopefully in the next week or two I’ll get back to getting that leafed. Then again, since I got the rhinestones on my chaps, I want to put the rhinestones on them! Then again, we can always start with the primary cover *smile*.

It’s been a busy motorcycle day, which is time well spent, in my opinion. Got to do some home maintenance now, so I’ll close.

Keep the shiny side up!!

The next DIY project is….

Leafing my crash bar. I didn’t get the engine guard with my bike, but discovered that there was one hanging in my garage that fit! No, Santa didn’t leave it....it's a remnant of my ex. He and his bike are history.

Before you get your shorts in a wad, he doesn’t need it any more. He sold his bike and I doubt that it will look good on his Taurus.

It is pretty banged up and has road rash from a drop, but I think it will look cool if I leaf it in the same way that I did my primary cover. I’ve gotten the guard sanded and since we are up to 49 degrees today, I will primer the bar in a bit.

Primer, then sand. Apply bonding agent, then put the leafing material on. I’ll clear coat as well.

Well, off to prime….

March Madness

There’s a lot going on next month.

I’m headed out to San Diego to visit a friend and do some riding…so I HOPE it will be warmer. I’m really looking forward to the trip out. I’ve never been to San Diego before and everyone I’ve talked to says it’s beautiful.

We have a ride scheduled for March 11 after our Chapter meeting. We are going to head out to The Wonder Tower in Genoa, Colorado. No one I’ve talked to has heard of it, so off we go. We opened the ride up to the Colorado Springs Chapter of the Women in the Wind and to the Women on Wheels Colorado Gold Chapter as well. I hope the weather holds.

March 19th is the Polar Bear Poker Run. They are supposed to ride no matter what the temps are. We’ll see if I’m out there with those crazy people. Heck, who am I foolin’, I probably will.

On the 25th the MSR has an open house next month at Rocky Mountain Cycle Plaza to promote the Mountain Shadow Riders. It’ll be fun. I get to work the early shift and set up!! Been working behind the scenes with Jeanne (she’s been doing all the work, this woman is a dynamo!) and have a blurb to write on how to join our Yahoo Group. Being that I’m the group administrator, I couldn’t hand that one off, could I? I think we are doing brats. It’ll be interesting. I know it’s funny to watch men tend to fire….they are always messing with it.

A bunch of women…would they mess with the fire?? Hmmm…. I will say (and say it proudly and without malice) that we have some hard-charging Alpha Females in our group. I’m sure one of the Cartel won’t be able to resist poking at the fire. Heck, I’d bet on it *smile*…..

I’d work the show all day, but I have to be in Denver to catch Mama Mia at the Denver Performing Arts Center that evening. It’s a true biker chickie to evening-gown clad gurl. It’ll be fun. Too bad I can’t manage it on my bike….the CCT HOG LOH has their dice ride on Sunday and I’d be right there……sigh.

There’s a whole lot more going on, but I can’t be at all of them, so I’ll have to pick and choose. So many choices, so little time (and warmth at this point).

Somewhere along the line I have to do homework and laundry. And put together a ride. Ohhh…I get to pick where we are going!!!

Keep the shiny side up!!

I WANNA RIDE....WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

It's a whole 44 degrees outside!!! WOAH! It's a heatwave...break out the bikini!!!

I still have a lot of ice on my street so it's a no-go for me. I'd have ridden if I could have gotten safely out. I had to be satisfied riding down the road in the mom-mobile with my windows rolled down. Looked a little strange because it's a bit nippy, but hey, I'll take what I can get in these circumstances.

As I was headed down Research Blvd., a guy passed me on his motorcycle..............

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. I wanted to turn right around and manhandle a motorcycle out of the garage and catch up with him. Of course, his tag caught my eye--he's on a brand new Yamaha and of course, had to ride.

Heck, I'd be doing the same thing if I could have!!!

Hopefully next weekend will be warmer...the forecast says for a high of 51 on Sunday. Let's hope the weatherman doesn't change his mind.

The Scooter Gurl Has INK!!!

I awoke to a record low of MINUS five degrees.....yikes!!!

The day was clear and calm....just cold....brrrrrrr.....

What to do on a Sunday that's too cold and icy to ride??

Go to the Motorcycle Show and Swap Meet at the Phil Long Expo Center!

My friends and I had planned to go today because rumor central reported that our Bergman rider, Kelly--aka Scooter Gurl, had woke up one morning with new ink and had to enter it in the motorcycle show tattoo contest.

Karla, Jeanne and I met up around noon and wandered around the Expo Center. We wandered around the booths, shopped and looked at the bikes. In the process we met our MSR Co-Director Wendy, Past Director Chris, Rodney....and Paul and the notorious Scooter Gurl. Yeah, we asked about the ink and sure enough, the rumor was true!!!

What a cool tat it is!! I like tattoos--as long as they are on someone else. The way I see it is that I have cellulite--and that's permanent enough on my bootie as it is....so I don't feel the need to add anything else-ha ha ha. I also got to check out her navel ring. Now, that's really cool.....

Not to mention that I have a gift card from one of the local tattoo shops. I managed to snag it in a prize drawing from one of our rides. Me, the girl who won't do ink gets a gift card to the tattoo store. Just my luck! Of course, I was eyeing her belly ring too...hmmm...maybe I can put that gift card to use after all *smile*!

Back to the subject--so we wander to the stage where the contest is being held and there's a very large amount of people crammed into a small room. The styles of ink range from really great to really bizarre. It's certainly entertaining to watch! We were even lucky to observe a man in his boxers...hmmmm....I could have made the day without seeing THAT!!!

After two long hours, it's time for Kelly to show her stuff. And HOW!! Yowza! This chickie ain't camera shy, that's for darn sure!!! And what a cute tat!!

I didn't stay around for the results, but at any rate...Scooter Gurl gets my respect because she stood up and strutted her stuff and had fun doing it!!

Really....isn't that why we ride???

Keep the shiny side up, chickie....you ROCK!!

Colorado Gold WOW Meeting

Three representatives from the Mountain Shadow Riders (Chapter Director Karla, Jeanne, and I) drove up yesterday to help support the Colorado Gold chapter of the Women On Wheels. They are in the process of reorganizing and re-starting their group up after a period of non-activity.

Our morning was a cold one—the temps were well below freezing and there was a large amount of packed snow and ice on the residential streets. Once we got on the major highway, it was clear. Still bitterly cold, but clear!

There were quite a few ladies that showed up for the meeting—I think about ten in all. I know there’s a pretty good population of women riders since Denver is a large city. Overall, the meeting was very positive and there was a lot of energy and ideas bantered about. We even had a few men. Of course..with a group of women bikers?? Yeah, the men are sure to follow *smile*!

They have a good bit of work to do, but if today was any indication of how they will do, then I think the group will be fine. We talked briefly about a camping trip with the three Colorado chapters. Can you imagine? A group of girls, on motorycles, camping?

LOL!! From my road warrior days, I pack light! I know that I will have no problem swinging the camping trip. For some of my sister bikers…well, that’s another story!!

Congrats to the Colorado Gold Chapter! I hope to ride with you soon!!

Keep the Shiny Side Up!!

The Future of Motorcycling

I had to put this in because it is just too cute!!!

My son loves my motorcycles…if I’m out wrenching he’s always bringing me the various tools that I need. If I’m polishing, he’ll grab a rag and go and polish the other bike. If I’m working on the V-Star, he’ll tell me “mom, I am going polish Mr. Chubbs so he’ll be clean too”. Or vice versa.

Of course, after the bike starts, it’s a different story. He’s still afraid of the noise. That will change in time and before I know it he’ll be on the back and then, eventually ride.

So right now, I enjoy him. I normally don’t post photos of my son but since you can’t see his face, I can’t resist. That’s my boy (and I’m darned proud of him)!!

It's Twenty Outside

I awoke to a brilliant, gorgeous day….and snow on the ground. I have no idea of the temps, but the weather channel thingy in my icon tray says 20 degrees, so I’m pretty confident that it’s cold outside!!

Of course, I had to step out to snap these photos of my front yard and yes...IT'S BLASTED COLD!!!

The Denver Chapter of the Women on Wheels is having their chapter meeting this coming Saturday. We were supposed to ride up, but it looks like it will be by the cages instead of by motorcycle. I was going to drive anyway, since I have my son that afternoon and he’s still too little to ride on the back.

Next weekend is a totally different story. We are supposed to be in the mid-50’s starting Thursday and it is supposed to continue through the weekend! I have to be motorcycle crazy if I’m doing the happy dance with temperatures in the mid-50’s!!!!!! If it is clear you bet your bottom dollar that I will be out riding!

Until then, I am anxiously awaiting the bazillion rhinestones I ordered. Not only are my chaps red, they’ll be SHINY!!! The red, shiny gurl…..yeah, that’s me!!!

As always, keep the shiny side up!!!

2006 Women in Motorcycling Conference, August 2006

We had our meeting Monday night at Howard’s Bar-B-Que and worked out the details of this conference.  The conference is scheduled for August 16th and 17th at the Elk’s Lodge in Cripple Creek, CO.  That puts it between Sturgis and the Cripple Creek Veteran’s Day Rally.  

The Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Museum is heading this project with the support of the Mountain Shadow Riders/Women on Wheels and The Women in the Wind Organization.  We are asking for input and help from the other motorcycle organizations around town as well.  

I’m excited about this; we have a lot going on.  Barb has been working on getting some really great keynote speakers.  She still wishes to have someone local come in and speak.  If not, then it’s to Plan B!  There will be seminars, skill building sessions and other activities planned.  Of course, there’s always riding involved!!!

I look forward to working behind the scenes for this project.  I can’t attend due to a scheduling conflict, but I do anticipate riding in on the Veteran’s Day Festival the following weekend.  I had the opportunity to ride it last year and was honored to ride in with a group of ex-POWs and disabled vets.  They took excellent care of me to ensure I didn’t ride off the side of the mountain.

This ride is really spectacular due to the scenery.  Riding the twisties is fun too.  

Of course, riding back in the rain and ensuing hailstorm was no fun, but that’s what makes the experience so great.  You just never know what you are going to get.

I should have more info on the conference in the next few days.  

Keep the Shiny Side Up!!

Sturgis '06

It looks like I’m going to go to Sturgis this year.  With my timetable, I’ll be there before the rally, which I honestly prefer.  The rally will be crazy and it would be great to see all the really cool motorcycles (and hot guys and girls), but I’m really more interested in riding that area.

I’m getting too old to party all night and be functional the next morning!  I know I could do it short term, but I don’t want to push the envelope when it comes to riding a motorcycle.  I don’t understand how anyone can do it, and I’m in no way, shape, or form in any position to judge.  I just know that I can’t do it and am not willing to risk it.  

So when the opportunity presented itself to do the ride outside the rally and I know I have a safe place to say (without costing me an arm and a leg)—it’s going to happen!!  Yippee!!!

I suppose I got to get those darned frames now…lol.

Keep the shiny side up!!

Sunday Morning Motorcycling

I did get out and ride today for a very short spin. It was early—around 9:30 am when I left and I decided to ride to chorus practice. I know it’s crazy to get out for such a short motorcycle ride and it takes so much to GET ready to ride, but I couldn’t resist. Besides, I need to put gas in my van and didn’t have time so I just took the bike!!

It was a spectacular day. The temps were agreeable and there was no wind and more importantly, no ice! I think I saw more yesterday and it was freezing! I think that had more to do with Tim’s service.

I did discover that my key won’t lock my forks. I’m getting up to the 7,500 mile service so I have to make sure and have the folks at Harley look at it.

I am looking forward to the motorcycle swap meet next weekend. Sigh, I know I’ll find something else I just need. Of course <smile>.

Keep the shiny side up!

MSR February Meeting

Wow! What a great turn out! I wasn’t late either <smile>…….and managed not to knock over various trays…..ha ha ha. I was late to January’s meeting and in my haste to get in and get seated, I knocked over the server’s tray.

I had too much ice in my cul-de-sac so I headed out to the meeting in the mom-mobile. Geeeez..it was really cold this morning!!

Barb filled us in on the status of the Women in Motorcycle Conference. They did secure a place, which is great. The next meeting is on Monday and I think I’ll take a run down to see what I can do to help.

No one rode in today (not even Sandy) and we cancelled our impromptu ride. The cold plus the ride out to Palmer Park for Tim’s funeral was on deck so we had a lot going on.

The Ladies of Harley are having their Leather and Lace Ball tonight. I have other plans, but I’m sure it will be the typical LOH/HOG party! You can draw your own conclusion—leather, lace, harley guys and gals……….<smile>.

I hear the weather is supposed to be clear and in the mid 50’s…..if it is I think a few of us are going to get out and ride a couple of miles tomorrow.

Keep the shiny side up (and stay warm)….

Snow and Goodbye

With the wind howling all last night, I wasn’t surprised to find the ground all covered in snow. Sigh. Actually, it was forecasted. I was hoping that the weather station would be wrong. Temps for tomorrow are only supposed to be in the mid to upper 30s. I know I shouldn’t complain, since the weather we have been experiencing has been mild.

Our monthly meeting for the Mountain Shadow Riders is tomorrow and if the snow is on the ground, I’m not going to ride. I can deal with the cold for a bit, but the ice and snow…no way.

One of the riders in our community passed away earlier this week. Tim Krueger has been a part of the motorcycle community here in the Springs for many years. He was well-liked and well-respected by everyone that met him. The Mountain Shadow Riders holds Tim in a special place in our group because of the support he gave us. He was always willing to take the time out and work with the group. From maintenance, basic wrenching, and our “ooops, I dropped it” classes, he was always ever so patient and helpful in supporting us.

He’ll certainly be missed. This rider knows that if the weather is clear and I can get my bike out and around the ice on the ground, I’ll be there on two wheels.

Keep the shiny side up.

Women in Motorcycle Conference

The Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame is sponsoring a conference for women in motorcycling. The conference is tentatively set for August, 2006. The purpose of the conference is to open a forum to discuss past credits, current issues and the future hopes of women that are involved in motorcycle riding.

Right now, the conference is in the planning stages and as the details become available, I will post them. The next planning meeting is next week and I should have a better idea on the size and scope of the conference as well a date.

I am constantly amazed by the scope of work done by the ladies in the various riding organizations. On top of the hours they put in for home, work, family, friends and community, they also manage to put an enormous amount of time and energy into promoting and supporting women in motorcycling. I’m honored that I can call them my friends and they allow me to be theirs.

Keep the shiny side up!

The HOGcast

This is really cool.  Seems that Winchester, VA Harley Owner’s Group broadcasts a Podcast on their goings on.  I happened upon Terry on Frappr! one afternoon when I was surfing the site looking for ways to e-connect.

Frappr! is a great e-community.  Someone here in Colorado told me about the Yamaha Group on Frappr!  It’s a large community and everyone is really helpful in answering any questions about Star Motorcycles.  

Out of curiosity I looked for a Harley Frappr! and there Terry is.  It has about 45 members and I thought it was a hoot that there were no women.  I gave him a shout out and get the designation of being the first woman in the group and Terry was kind enough to put a blurb in his Podcast about it.

If you have iTunes you can subscribe to the Podcast there and listen to it at your convenience.  If not, he has a blogger site.  You can get the feed from there as well.

Keep the Shiny Side Up…and Frappr on!!

Riding on Super Bowl Sunday

It was the February HOG meeting too. It was so blasted windy! The meeting was at 9:30 AM so I decided I needed to ride my Odyssey. I should have ridden in!

This was my first Harley Owner's Group meeting and I was surprised by the number of people I already knew. Small world!

Our 2005 Chapter Director of the Mountain Shadow Riders is the sole female Road Captain. Congrats Chris! She rides a beautiful pearl white Heritage Softail Classic.

I did ride later that afternoon....still windy and much colder. I don't mind the wind too much. Sand, I hate, wind--bearable. Actually, before I got my Harley I was repeatedly warned about the wind problems and the solid disc wheels on the Fatboy. Honestly, I can't tell much of a difference between my two bikes. I'm blown all over the road in any big gusts!

At any rate, I had two short scoots..one on Saturday and one on Sunday. I have the LOH (Ladies of Harley) meeting on Tuesday and the MSR meeting on Saturday. I think The LOH Leather and Lace Ball is Saturday night. I'll have to think about that one!

Oh, and the new owner of the Boulevard still hasn't stepped up. I was wrong in my guess. Okay, stop the presses, I admitted I was wrong. Whazzup with that?? LOL. So who's the new owner? That is the $64,000 question.

At 3:30 AM I am making no sense. I think I need to go to bed.

Keep the shiny side up!

A New Addition to Our Family

Rumor has it that one of our new riders is tooling around town on a brand spanking Suzuki Boulevard 800. Word on the street won’t identify her, but I suspect it’s a rider that hated her old bike and should have ditched it a long time ago.

Being a nice-sized bike for its class and the fact that it’s the only fuel-injected motorcycle in its engine size, she did good. I looked at them before I got my V-Star…and the salesman did his darnedest to talk me into it….but I had already decided on getting the Yamaha.

We are welcoming the new Suzi to our family…and as with any new baby…she’ll be full into buying as many new accessories as she can possibly stand (or her pocketbook anyways).

Go girl power!!

Keep the shiny side up!!

Winter Riding

It took me 30 minutes to get ready for a 20-minute ride.  Brrrrrrrrrrr.

Get suited up to crank Mr. Chubbs…no go, the Harley is dead.  Take time to put it on the charger.

Cranky started right up.  Hmmmm…thinking my V-Star is sucking the life force out of the Fatboy?   Not really.  The iPod adapter does it.

At any rate, the Crankster and I went for a ride….vrrrroooommmm..

Darn, it was cold!!!

Itch scratched for a bit.  

Red chaps—nice!!

It is a good day in this biker’s opinion <smile>.

Keep the Shiny Side Up

The HOG Meeting is Tomorrow

Jeanne and I are going to get up early tomorrow morning to go to the HOG Meeting. I doubt we’ll ride since the weather is still too darned cold….although I’d love to put those red-fringed chaps on and take Mr. Chubbs out for a spin. Which reminds me, I need to get on-line and get a pair of those clutch/brake lever wraps to put on my motorcycle. I love my heated grips, but my putting my hands on those ice cold levers...brrrrrrrr....

Being that it’s only 31 degrees outside and tomorrow is expected to be no better, I doubt it will happen. Sigh. The high is expected to be 46. The temps are supposed to warm up mid-week (just my luck, eh). We’ll see.

I’m ready for the warmer temps. Not only just for riding, but I’m ready to see the green grass, the trees leafing and the flowers blooming. Ride the twistys without freezing my you know what off.

Well, I need to shove off and work on leafing my crash bars (is that what they are called). They are going to get a leaf job like like my primary cover!!!

Oh, and there’s the football game. Go Underdogs…..yeah, that’s who I’m rooting for….

Keep the Shiny Side Up!

Colorado Gold Chapter—Women on Wheels of Denver

The Denver Chapter of Women on Wheels has struggled with trying to keep their group together. Last month, two of the representatives made the trip down to the Springs for our meeting and have decided that they want to pull their chapter back together.

The Mountain Shadow Riders have resolved to support these ladies and help them in any way possible. Anyone in the Denver or surrounding area that is interested in helping or joining this group is invited to come, socialize and eat a spot of breakfast with us! If you know anyone that lives in the surrounding area that rides or knows someone (face it, I’m not friends with everyone) that might know someone that could be interested; please pass the word on to them!!

The details are as follows:
When: Saturday, February 18, 2006
Where: Gunther Toody’s
4500 E Alameda Avenue
(Corner of E. Alameda and Leetsdale)
Glendale, CO 80264
(303) 399-1959
Time: 10:00 AM

If you are in the Colorado Springs area and want to ride up with us, please shoot me an e-mail and I’ll get you the details so you can meet up with us!

It doesn’t matter what you ride—what matters is that you ride (or want to).

Have a great day and Keep the Shiny Side Up!!!

Hey, It's Me!

Greg was true to his word…my pic is posted in his magazine….CycleCrossroads

If the link takes you to the main page, I’m under Departments—Bikes-Babes-Dude.

Made two of the three criteria:  I’m a girl and there’s a bike…

I could use a dude on occasion <wink>….

I’ll be there for a week…kewl beans!

There’s some pretty informative stuff in the pages, take a peek.  Oh, and sign up for the newsletter.  

I’m thinking I need a new pic.  Hmmmm…maybe in the spring (meaning when it warms up), I’ll get the gang of girls to get gussied up, clean the bikes, and take some new cool pics.  

Keep the shiny side up, all!!

Biker Chicks Eat At Joe’s

Friday Night. Joe’s Crab Shack. Thirty motorcycle women. Scary.

Our riding group’s monthly family dinner night was this past Friday night. Any excuse seeing my fellow Heaven’s Devils, eh?? LOL.

Okay, it wasn’t exactly thirty women…there were some of the male support members in attendance. Oh, and one slightly bewildered teenage boy………….I’m giving him a mention simply because he took some good-natured ribbing and wasn’t too embarrassed when the conversation went on the trashy side…

<Gasp> Women motorcycle riders talking trashy? Oh no, oh no, oh no…the image of the traditional biker chick reputation is forever ruined!!!! Actually, if we didn’t take the conversation south of PG-13, then something is definitely wrong!!

All right, back to the dinner. It was definitely a hoot! Joe’s Crab Shack has a balloon artist and it took him a couple of skeptical glances before he got the courage to ask if anyone might be interested in a balloon sculpture. I just felt the need for a hat, which I’m wearing in the photo at the top. Taunya got the princess model…with a twist. Intentional or not the balloon guy made her this cool hat and left about six inches of the pink balloon sticking up. So she got a cute balloon hat that looked like it had an errr….well, it was a guy and it was happy. ‘Nuff said. I guess it was a good think I had no pink balloons as I had them sticking out in every which direction, huh???

The jokes in there, I just gotta keep it clean for the google ‘bots. If you don’t get it, e-mail me and I’ll explain it to you.

The folks at Joe’s occasionally take a dance break or have a contest. The wait staff divided the restaurant up into four teams (we were our own team) and had a contest to the song of The Village People’s YMCA. My goofy hat and I were up in front dancing to the YMCA! I had to work that hat you know—Jeanne said she’d deny knowing me if I wore it to Southside Johnny’s. I don’t know why…..*I* thought it was a pretty cool hat. Besides, how many people you know walk around with latex on their head? Uhhhhhh…….never mind.

You know, them google ‘bots. He he he.

Sigh, I keep getting off track.

We had fun. Dinner was typical Joe’s fare. The thing that made dinner fabulous was our fellowship. I think we have a phenomenal group. There’s a lot of diversity—money, education, social backgrounds, cultural, religion--you name it…it’s there. The one thing that holds us together is our love for the motorcycles and the fact that we love to ride. We have a good time together. I can’t speak for them, but I have a good time when I see everyone. It was good to see some long lost faces—Rodney, Chris, and Don…and there were some members I had never met. It was fantastic to finally meet the live version!!!

Oh, we lost the contest. I guess we were disqualified when we started yelling “we want free beer”….I think we scared them away….either that or it was my awful dancing. Oh well, it was fun!

Sandy won the balls of steel contest. She and her friend were the only two that rode--in the cold at night with the ice and snow on the ground. You go girl!!!

Trouble on the Internet

I just had to blurb…my girlfriend and one partner in crime has her story featured in a new Women’s Motorcycle Magazine!! “Trouble” AKA Carolee is the Secretary for the Colorado Springs’ Mountain Shadow Riders. We are a chapter of the National Women on Wheels riding organization.

The magazine is called WomenRidersNow and is dedicated to women and the sport of motorcycle riding. The site is a source of news and an information network geared towards women. Check out Carolee's article. I think it rocks and kudos to her for submitting the article!!!

I think it's funny that her bike's name is Lucky. Lucky can rumble too..vrrroooommmmm. She's got quite a set of pipes on her *smile*.

You rock, girl and I’m thrilled that your article made the cut! You always work behind the scenes (as the ‘official’ photographer to our outings) so pics of you are a rarity! Not to mention that this is one hot babe!! Too bad she’s married…………..LOL.

Keep the shiny side up or Trouble’s gonna get cha!!!