KT DID

My Friday Message

2012-01-27T11:07:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend in whatever you do and wherever you go. Remember, motorcyclists WILL be on the roads.

Mind Training Road Practice: If people started thinking of motorcyclists as HUMANS, there might be more hope for fewer rider tragedies if you do.
Drive Safe. Ride Safe. Be Safe.

Proverb For The Weekend: Is it a day for firm decisions! Or is it?

(Note) I have sent a little safety diddy out every Friday on my FB page since its inception, and I thought I might as well post it here too for those readers that are not on FB, or who come in to read and don't leave comments, etc.)

Happy Trailzzzz Weekend Everyone♥

Motorcycling China Videos

2012-01-22T16:20:00.000-08:00

A friend on Facebook, Gary Mraz, passed his vids around on his motorcycle trip through China. I really like watching videos on riding in other countries. These two give a little insight to just that. In the second video, you will see him get clipped by a bus. Safe journey Gary!

What Makes You Smile When You Ride?

2012-01-19T13:57:00.000-08:00

I always wonder what other riders are thinking when I see the smiles on their faces as I ride by, or even while I am driving, which makes me want to get out of my car and into the saddle. For me its a "feeling" or the "music" of it all that keeps me going amidst all the news of riders going down these days. My perseverance in going forward with my life the way I choose amongst the naysayers. The plain beauty of accomplishing a skill that I truly enjoy. The people. Traveling in a different perspective during this time of life. I could go on and on, but plain and simple... it makes me happy. Just happy.

So a question to you: What makes you smile while riding? What are you thinking of when that smile comes across your face? We know what pisses us off already, but where does your brain-time take you while riding?

Smiling Roadzzz
KT Did

Easy Rider Show 2012

2012-01-09T17:06:00.001-08:00

Nightster Ride With A Friend 1-4-2012

2012-01-05T18:52:00.000-08:00

Product Review: Mobile Warming Gear Jacket and Vest

2012-01-03T12:57:00.000-08:00

With this summer-like weather fooling us, Winter is not over. Just a couple of weeks ago it was down to 32 degrees in California, which brought me into Anaheim Fullerton Harley Davidson to buy some heated gear, knowing that it is going to get cold again, I wanted to explore what was on the hook in that department. Obviously, my review here is of the womens jacket and vest. There is a Men's line available to look at on their website.

While there, I had the pleasure of meeting Scott McCaslin of Helmet House . He was dropping off jackets and vests fitted with the Mobilewarming© Pro Heating System. As I was trying on the jacket and vest, he started explaining the products to me, and I was given the water resistant "Cypress" model jacket and vest to take home and test them out. I have never had heated gear, so when Tina at AFHD recommended this product, I was curious as to how it all worked and stood up to the elements.

Fit and Wear:

I really don't like bulk when riding, so I had my reservations when I tried on the jacket then put my leather one over it. Surprisingly, it was very comfortable. The units in the product are made to keep you warm and the larger the garment, the less you will feel the heat. However, the fit is up to you, but I took one that fit closer to the body and it works for me and layering. The neckline is high and it covered mine in the wind, so the addition of a scarf was not needed considering the warming ability.

The length of this style is nice too. They are cut longer and cover the wind chill area of the waist and hips.

The jacket itself is made of a ©Windshark soft shell with four-way stretch inserts on the sides for a nice close fit that moves with the body. The vest works the same way.  Both jacket and vest have two outside zipper pockets. One pocket holds the battery which adds a little bulk, but for me it was easily dismissed after I got used to it. There is still room for keys, etc. There are no wires that need connection to the bike. It is all self sustained, and that makes comfort and no pulls on a bike, and wearable at any given time for heat.

Heating:

One of the things that drew me to this product was no hook up to the bike.  No outside wires at all, other than for recharge. Both the vest and jacket come complete with a rechargeable battery and the battery actually lasted a very long time, approximately 9-10 hours on low and about 3-4 hours on high. I adjusted the setting to the highest and as soon as it was hot (which was within minutes), I set it to the lowest and it lasted the whole day. It made the battery last longer and it was at a temp that kept me warm.   The combined heating elements are placed two on the upper chest area and one on the upper back. Both products heated up fast and I could feel the warmth within less than 5 minutes.  Both are said to reach 135 F at full power. I don't think I ever let it go that high, so I have not tested that out. Actually, I didn't need to. It was substantially warm enough.

There is also a nifty "circuit breaker" near the lower zipper area for fast disconnect if you get too hot riding. I particularly like the fact I did not have to stop and unzip my pocket to turn it off. Just one quick hand-swipe and it is disconnected, and again that saves battery life, and pull over time.

Care:

Easy. Hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cycle. I put mine on a hanger to dry and the next day it was pretty much set to go.

Warranty:

Scott had also informed me of the lifetime warranty and the jacket 5 year warranty for any zippers, tears, etc. and they stand by it. The battery has a warranty of 90 days and is replaceable.

Price:

Vests: Depending on whether you buy online or at a dealer, it varies. I found the Vest running from $143.99 online and up to $179.00 at dealers.

Jacket: Online for the Jacket was anywhere from $161.00 to $180.00, and well over $200 at dealers.

So, my total summation of this product line is this:

I like them. I still have the vest and actually wear it around the house and while out grocery shopping. I have a tendency to overheat, so the jacket was just an added layer I did not want in case of getting hot on the bike. Otherwise it was nice to walk around town and use that way. I think it was a good expense for my lifestyle and have used it plenty so far. I normally wear a vest over long sleeves in the Winter and having a heated one that I can use both ways is a perk for not only packing lighter for a ride, but just walking around exploring after rides.

You can contact Steve McCaslin at www.helmethouse.com or Anaheim Fullerton Harley Davidson in So. California for any questions on this product.

Warming Happy Trailzzz
KT Did

Nightster Canyon Ride 1/1/2012

2012-01-01T22:37:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years Promises

2011-12-30T11:01:00.000-08:00

Well its getting into 2012 and since its the time for resolutions, I have made my promises to myself hereinunder. Last year I was pretty right on with myself and this year I hope I can keep up just the same.

1. Give more.
2. Take more out of life for my life.
3. Don't make goals... just do it.
4. Barf when called for.
5. Stick with " I don't care what you think of me, its none of my business anyway" motto.
6. Love posers and love them for who they are... people in need, everything falls into place then.
7. Get the Nightster Project on a smooth go into bobberville.
8. Listen more with less reaction, I can always barf in hiding.
9. Eat healthier... ughghghghg
and...
10. Ride more and more and more and more and more.................

Wishing all a very Happy, Healthy, and Safe New Years!

Happy Trailzzzzz into 2010
KT Did

Happy Holidays Everyone!

2011-12-22T16:31:00.000-08:00

Rip Off Warning on Jamin' Leathers

2011-12-21T16:42:00.000-08:00

Just giving all a heads up on Jamin' Leathers. They have been in business for a few years now and I have ordered from them before, but this time they ripped me off. Kept my money and did not send me my order. Initially when I did not receive the product I contacted their "Chat". Luckily I printed the screen out where they stated they sent a copy of my invoice via e-mail and in the next sentence they stated they do not send copies of the statement via email and that they are in the merchandise box. A box I have yet to receive...since November. I have called, written, and even got on the Facebook, and guess what... no answer. They even gave me phoney USPS tracking number. They told me they do not send confirmations or even invoices over the e-mail, but they took my money and ran with it.

They continue to advertise on Facebook for holiday shopping and I strongly say that if you order anything, you are taking a huge chance on never getting your product. Yes, I have called my bank and they are investigating it. Pay Pal is useless, but the Bank does go in for their customer in place of Pay Pal. Next step, is Better Business Bureau and putting a claim in with their phoney USPS tracking number with the USPS. I have done that on one other occasion and it works. Believe me, some things are just worth fighting over. There is another complainant trying to find out where his order is too on Facebook. So I know I am not alone.

There it is. I am shouting this out for those of you doing last minute shopping and thinking of these guys, as a consumer who got ripped off.

Happy Jamin' Shister Leathers...

KT Did

Shmidgens & Happy Holidays!

2011-12-05T15:49:00.000-08:00

With the year coming to an end and not too many writings from me for a couple months, I wanted to get back in here and close off this year with everyone.

Its been quite an adventurous one for me. I went to Yosemite twice, Arizona a couple of times, Laughlin, Northern California several times, sold a couple of bikes, bought a bike, cut some peeps out of my life completely, put some back in, Flat Wooley came out for a visit, got to meet the Dave Gang up north, and got to meet the Caveman Tribe in the desert, and am still here on this planet to enjoy what I have. Even the bad stuff was good, because I got to grow from it. Trippy, but it works for me.

I suppose the best is always right in front of my face at that moment and at that time. Getting older sorta puts that into perspective, but also having friends who are struggling with their illnesses gives me a good push into the reality of living life fully while I can. If anybody has taught me anything this year it is them. They are endless in the pursuit of living their lives and when they feel well enough, they ride. They are truly inspiring women. They take each day and suck it up. I love them dearly for giving me insight while they are suffering.

This year has also given me some great times with new peeps. Tina and I went on a 6 day ride up through Northern California. My favorite day riding was when we were in Yosemite in the morning and then Morro Bay on the Coast in the evening. We had to change our plans a couple of times because of weather, and each time we did, we loved it. Including the time she got stuck in the kiddy swing after having a couple of blue colored martinis. It was a good laugh after a long day's ride and one definitely for the memory books.

The Nightster has given me my goal for next year already and that is to have fun bobbing it out. One piece at a time. It doesn't ride like my other Sportys. Doesn't have that jackhammer feel. Pretty smooth surprisingly. So this will be a fun learning experience on how to do the this and that's. Wootz!

Soooo..... the holidays are upon us, and I wish you all great adventures for the remainder of this year. We have a couple of weeks left before we call it 2012, and for those that have already winterized their bikes, Spring will surely come soon enough. Time flies doesn't it?! Who would an thunkededed 2012 is here already!!

Happy Trailing Holidayzzz To All With Much Happiness!
KaTy Did

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

2011-11-23T16:30:00.000-08:00

I know I haven't been around here in awhile, and that will be changing soon, but I wanted to slip in and wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving and a huge thank you to all that have stopped in to read my blog. I hope you all have a great day tomorrow and always! Happy Thanksgiving!

KT Did

Grace McKean- Still Riding At 77 Years Young!

2011-09-16T18:08:00.000-07:00

Big Bear Choppers posted this on FB and just had to share with those that don't do FB here.

Heritage Ride The Last Route

2011-08-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

After seeing Columbia I knew the only place to go was back to where my parents lived in Grass Valley. My brother lives there with his wife and son, and I always love to visit them and get a good taste of his wife's cooking. So I went up to spend a few days with them and my nephew. I adore him and he is the one to carry the family name on. So it seemed a perfect ending to this ride to end with a visit there.

So, what I have learned: Pretty simple... I have discovered that all the bad stuff and just crap that I went through with the death of my mother, none of that really matters to me anymore. My brother is my family and I adore him. I feel at home with his family and that will never change. All the other stuff is just crap to make other people feel better about themselves, and that's not my problem. Being the oldest, it is harder for the younger ones and younger generations to "get it"... they didn't live my life nor were they old enough to be a part of it.

I am solid with knowing more about my ancestors and who they were. What they struggled with and who they became. I can say, I am very proud of my father's side of the family. I knew a little before the ride, but not as much as I know now. I have filled in the blanks. They worked hard, earned their educations and went on to be a substantial part of the communities they lived in. So much so, their legacy lives on in local museums.

So with that, my Heritage Ride was a success and I am actually planning another ride to go back and explore the areas I didn't get to see off of Highway 49. It is a must to ride for anyone who visits California, and The Mother Lode is full of small towns to stop and stay and talk with the locals. Everyone I talked with on this ride was eager to recommend the next turn in the road.

All is good...

Happy Heritage Trailzzz
KT Did

Quick Throttle 10th Year Anniversary Party at Original Mikes

2011-07-25T09:14:00.000-07:00

You can see my bike in the first few seconds of this. LOL! But it was a great bike show and this short film shows a bit of that day.

Victor Newmark from television show Sons of Anarchy on my bike.

Note To Anonymous & My Readers

2011-07-17T17:09:00.000-07:00

I wrote this as a reply comment to My Heritage Ride Part I. I know some of you have been bullied by people you know on your blogs and just today, I was threatened in a comment that you all would be burdened with this person(s) comments as well. Guess they aren't happy with the truth from my eyes. In any case, I will not be bullied in any way shape or form. So I write this to you all.

This is the one and only time I will address this. I have copied it verbatem to post here as follows:

"An FYI Note: I have had an "anonymous" comment that, of course, I won't post. I expected it when I wrote these posts. Seems somes peeps can't take their minds off of me with respect to this family.

Anyway, I was informed by this "anonymous" thing you would be receiving some comments too. Seems like this person is not happy with their own life and has to try and be an evil spirit instead.

I will leave it up to you to do with them as you please.

Yes, I do know who they are and I have reported it as spam and malicous, and if you need any help with names, etc., you can private e-mail me.

I will continue to tell my stories here and if I piss people off... well, tough. Their "anonymous comment" proved to me even more, why I rode this ride, and now I am more happier than ever to know I have made the right decision to keep them completely out of my life, for the rest of my life. That's just the way I roll these days, and I like it.

Note To Anonymous: Blessings to you for making me realize this even more."

Peeps can read my comment section where I state I will not post any malicious comments... period. Seems this person(s) missed that.

Sorry to burden you all with this, but I thought I would give you a heads up.

I look forward to my next post with this ride and with our wonderful Flat! Boy did we have a good time this weekend! Can't wait to post that story.

Til Then...

Happy Trailzz!

Heritage Ride Part III--Yosemite

2011-07-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

On my way to Columbia, I saw the sign... Yosemite 70 Miles. I almost made one of those turns in the middle of the ride... you know the slam on the brakes and turn around, I had to remind myself I could spend the night and actually get up early to go on the way back to The Bay.

I did not realize how close it was in miles, but in fact, it takes a couple of hours of swerves, curves and switchbacks to get in... with straight drops off to the valley of the below. So taking time getting there and being able to stop and enjoy the way is well worth it for those that have not been there. Oh, and, you need to gas up BEFORE you go into the park... no gas there, and you will be in that park for a few hours at least.

I did not have the full day, but packed what part of the day in full of just breathtaking views and the instant "ahhhhs" when you see this place the first time. I make myself get up at dawn and, yes, I did it. Summer vacation is at its height now too, so try and plan around traffic... that will also slow you down, along with some intermittent road work. I bought a year pass... just made sense because I know I will be back. Its also cheaper that way too. I can take in 3 riders with the pass I bought and, ride it all year long. Otherwise, it is only $10 a rider, I paid $40.

The snow was melting at full force and the weather was perfect and all that made for some spectacular waterfalls and river action. Horsetails Falls comes at you while you round a corner and I could not stop in time or pull over safely for a pic, but just seeing it was perfection and probably the first thing I will remember when thinking of Yosemite. It is HUGE! So is Half Dome. You feel like nothing inside this place and are humbled by Mother Nature.

So... here's a slideshow. All the photos are not uploaded yet, as I need to get behind a computer that uploads more efficiently. They will be posted on my photo gallery site eventually.

I can't say this more... visit your National Parks regardless of where you may be in this great Country. I got a good little taste of them last year riding to Sturgis and another bite with Yosemite. They are America and they sure are beautiful.

Happy National Trailzzz
KaTy Did

The "Heritage" Ride-Part II

2011-06-25T23:24:00.000-07:00

The ride begins from Southern California and I ride North to The Bay Area. Its always fun when I set out on a new journey. I have met some pretty good people on the road and still stay in touch with most. It wasn't any different this time around either. I meet Neal and Steve at a gas station stop, a couple of guys that are doing the 4 Corners. They have ridden from Maine and are on they way up to Alaska. I'm overly impressed. We talk and they decide they want to see San Francisco on the way and they aren't sure which way to go. I tell them I do and we are off. After a nice little ride, I drop them off at their hotel, we wish each other a good ride and I head to my house. What a great day of riding!

Neal & Steve

I take a day to map and figure out just where I want to go and how I want to do it. I decide to take it in parts and pieces. So I start it where my GGG Grandparents are buried...at Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland. I ride to their grave site and pay my respects. I feel good at their grave site and now I am content to start a ride for them. A journey to the first place they lived in California. Columbia, The Gold Country.

Having a “base point” of travel in the East Bay is perfect for this excursion. It is approximately 2 ½ hours travel north or east to what is known as The Gold Country in California. Columbia is the main destination for me. Having made a brief visit previously, I was really eager to have more time to discover the surrounding area and work on getting some family information.

The rolling hills of California are incredible this time of year for a ride. The weather is perfect and the oak tree filled hills were surrounded with brown grasses holding on to its last bit of green. Livestock is out and the lakes are full to the brim with water. The beauty of traveling East instead of North from The Bay Area, is that it is only about an hour or so of freeway riding. The rest of the ride is through small farming towns and working cities from the past that still work today. Riding through the smells of the grass and livestock is not as bad as you would think. One of the reasons I love to ride is that I get all the senses…including smell. Completely open aired. The hills are interspersed with old barns and out buildings. Agriculture is the primary income and that hasn’t changed since the Gold Rush. Windmills are seen here and there over the hills. When the ride takes you through Jamestown and Sonora, you come upon Columbia. A little city kept in its historic era…the 1850‘s.

Windmills Roadside On The Farms

Main Street of Columbia

The city of Columbia is frozen in the time zone of 1850's when gold mining was the main function of one’s life. Motor vehicles are not allowed to park in the historic part of the city. There is plenty of parking and everything is set up for a short walk and is very convenient so I park the bike. As I walk through town, I see a complete example of life as it was. Everything is there from gold mining exhibits, Saloons, a Blacksmith, Stagecoach rides, a Justice of the Peace Office and the old School House up the road a bit. The later two, are part of my life and is what I am interested in learning more of.

Discovering that my GGG Grandfather was the first Justice of The Peace in Columbia was exciting to say the least. As I walked down the streets, I imagined a Wyatt Earp kind of lifestyle. I was kind of hoping to hear some rip roaring stories… but didn’t. It was a thriving gold mining city, so obviously there had to be. He immigrated in from Maine in 1847 where he was a newspaper editor, and later had his wife join him in 1850. He was 28 years old and she was a 27 year old school teacher. There, they set up a lifestyle that would dictate the rest of their lives in California. He later became a Judge, a California State Senator, and the United States Receiver of Public Monies, along with founding organizations in this State… and it all started in Columbia.

I found little on my GGG Grandmother other than a small document of her teaching. In the museum, there is a mention on her and another person starting a school, as the territory now was growing in numbers and many families were settling in and near Columbia. So many, that Columbia was actually considered for the State’s Capital. I learned that my GGG Grandmother did not found the school house there, as I was led to believe through life. They moved before the school was built. I did, however, find out that she was the first woman school teacher , teaching in a room in a private home located by the Methodist Church. She went on to be the State Treasurer of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and one of the founders of what is now called the YWCA in California. The town offers a great museum which covers a lot of Columbia history and the Bay Area.

After enjoying the main portion of Columbia and having fun panning a little for gold (no luck), I get on the bike and take a short ride up the the school house. Its up on a hill and it's brick building is a sight to see. I have brought with me some of my GGG hair… a braid that was cut at the time of her death and saved in an envelope after all these years. I love it. I had previously tied a piece of it on the Oak tree in front of the school house… this time I buried a good part of it next to the corner stone. Her life was all about education, so leaving a piece of her by the school house just felt right.

Columbia School House

Great Great Great Grandma Chamberlain's Braid

The School Out House

Pooper Seats All In A Row With No Privacy

Walking around the city made me feel like I was really a part of their lives. An important piece of my heritage walked where I walked and I loved it. On top of everything I am enjoying my adventure into the past on my motorcycle, on my own time and in this beautiful part of California. Having taken care of business, it was time to go. I am happy with what I have learned. All I want to do now is ride and discover the area around where they lived and made their lives.

Down the sweeper roads of Hwy 49 is Jamestown, another thriving gold rush city in its time. Most of the cities on Hwy 49 are historic and Jamestown proves no different. It also is the only Harley Davidson dealership in that area. I bought my pin and made way to walk the street. A view to the past with all its old buildings now antique stores, restaurants, and saloons. It is a cute little town and I let my imagination take me away to the past viewing its present life.

Riding through town I see a sign, “Railtown“. This I have to check out, and I take a left hand turn and ride up the hill a few blocks. I’m enjoying the ride through old buildings and Victorians and finally end up at a railroad station that is now a State Historic Park birthed in 1897. I love trains and still have a good train ride planned on my bucket list. So when I heard it was still a working railroad I was a little too happy. Yaaayyy bucket list. It is also known as “The Movie Railroad," featured in various films such as High Noon and Petticoat Junction. I got a kick learning about that.

Railtown Depot

I get a good tour of Railtown and decide its time to ride back up the hill and check into the hotel in Sonora. The day has been good and on this part of the excursion I am ready for food and sleep. Its been a full one.

So, at this point, and already, my “Heritage” ride has been successful in getting enough information to fill in the blanks. So what to do now?! Next Post... Yosemite...

Happy Riding Trailzzzzz
KT Did

My "Heritage" Ride Part I--Introduction To Why?

2011-06-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

Is time really important in who we are? Or is it a sum total of past, present and future? Is it worth wading through crap to keep something you know you already have?

Most that know me personally know that when my mother past a few years ago, she left myself and my family without any physical belongings…on purpose. She was mentally ill through chemotherapy drugs and others influencing her to do so. After 40 years, she changed her Will to have her sister and brother-in-law be in charge of the sale of all my family’s belongings...an action my father’s family would have killed her for since most, if not all, was their family history…not hers. Yes, my parents accumulated items through the years, but that is not what I am talking about here. I am talking family history, and items that were handed down to my father for his grandchildren and so on.

The truth be told, the mother that I knew was a vindictive and jealous soul. Unfortunately that’s the truth. No way getting around that one. She was jealous and angry at my father’s side of the family for as long as I can remember. So, she decided to get back at my father’s side of the family, and her own children & grandchildren, by disposing of all family history via her new Will. My Aunt and Uncle walked her in to a mediocre lawyer‘s office where her new Will was drawn up…under the influence of chemo drugs and drugs for pain. Yep, she had the law on her side, but the lawyer's ethics stink. I have been around lawyers and Judges for the past 30 years, good and bad… and she stinks. So, why didn’t I fight?… keep reading.

My family is dysfunctional… we just don’t get along. The logistics of courts suits, costs, fees & traveling wasn’t worth it to me. I knew what was going on and I let it happen. I knew the next three moves before my Aunt and Uncle or anyone did. One day, I was sitting around thinking about what actually my mother was thinking. If I could answer that question, then maybe it would all make more sense to me. Then it came to me: She was thinking: “I can still control everyone if I demand everything be sold… then I know the kids will fight over it… spending all their money… then they won’t have one single dollar to live their lives” . Yep... that's the truth...once I realized this, I knew I had the upper hand for my life. So I threw my cards in and sat back and watched it play out.

In the midst of all this, Aunt & Uncle scheduled a couple of family gatherings at a hotel conference room & storage unit for us to gather. These places had the items that the auctioneer wouldn’t take. We were allowed to pick items… one by one… until all the items were gone.

Disgusting isn’t it? I will answer it this way:

Yes... is simple... you can figure that one out.
No… because, I was lucky enough to receive some of the documents and letters and photos of my father’s side of the family. The other good thing about it is, one of my other brothers, whom I am very close to, picked corresponding documents. That made it all good.
So, with all this being said, still, why am I writing this?

During the last couple of years I have been slowly going through items, tossing most, keeping some.
Filling in the blanks hasn't been easy, but with the clues that were left for me I have a lot of questions answered. However, the need to have more questions answered was obsessive. So I decided to take it on the road and see what I could find out... to try and answer those questions and fill in the blanks.

In the next couple of blog posts, I will be posting bits and pieces of my ride through the Gold Country of California where my Great Great Great Grandparents Chamberlain came to live and raise their family.

Welcome to my “Heritage” Ride.

Happy Heritage Trailzzzzz
KaTy Did

J & P Cycles $25 Gift Certificate Give Away

2011-06-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Anyone interested in a $25 gift certificate to J & P Cycles? Here's your chance to get one.

As most know, J & P Cycles is the number one aftermarket motorcycle parts and accessories online store, and they have offered up a $25 gift certificate for me to give away in any way I want to. I know a few of you wrench on your own Harleys and they do have a huge department of aftermarket Harley parts. With more than 30 years of knowledge and close to 100,000 motorcycle parts you should be able to find something to get for your bike.

So here goes.

Rules:

1. First one to answer correctly on this blog as a comment wins.

2. If you are the winner, I will need you to e-mail me your name, address, phone number and e-mail so that I can forward that information on to J & P Cycles so that they can send you the gift certificate. Yes, it comes straight from them.

Here's the question:

Moe called Curley a bunch of names on The Three Stooges, which name did he call him the most? (Hint: It is motorcycle related).

Nyuk...Nyuk.... Nyukkk....

KaTy Did

Honoring Memorial Day With Poppies

2011-05-27T23:53:00.000-07:00

We cherish too, the Poppy red

That grows on fields where valor led,

It seems to signal to the skies

That blood of heroes never dies.

Moina Michael...1915

Ever wonder why there is a little red flower on those little cards you get from the Vets when you donate in front of the supermarkets? The tradition of wearing a Poppy on Memorial Day in honor of those that had fallen was Moina Michaels idea way back in 1915. She decided to sell the flowers with the proceeds going to servicemen in need. The idea caught on worldwide and was eventually taken up with a program called the "Buddy" Poppy program with artificial Poppys being made by disabled Veterans. Til this day, they use them. How do I know that? I get one every time I donate.

So each time you see a Vet with a Poppy in the lapel, now you know. Give freely to stay free.

I Thank You my Veterans for your commitment to freedom and this Country. You've made me proud!

In Honor of Memorial Day
KaTy Did

Joining In A Formation

2011-05-23T10:04:00.000-07:00

I received this question on my Facebook from a good friend who just started to ride. Its a good one. A lot of peeps really don't know what to do. Here is the question and then following is my answer that I gave him:

Question: "if I'm on the highway, and there's a formation of bikes is it impolite to join them in formation if your going to same way? Or should you keep a polite distance."

My Answer: "It depends. If it is a Club... abide by their road rules, which are you normally don't pass. Most clubs will pull aside or give you a thumbs up to pass them. In saying that... you ride with your own safety in mind. I have passed "groups" of riders without even thinking twice about it. In saying that, if you want to "join" a formation, put yourself at the back. Don't even try to slip in the middle any place. If you want to ride with them, just follow them at a safe distance and pull over when they do and kick up a conversation with them. More than likely they won't mind. I don't find too many head trips on the road....."

Personally, I don't want to join in someone else's formation. I don't like riding in a group scenario... a large one anyway. Just too many things can happen, so I do pass up when the situation calls for it. But sometimes I can't, soooo. Ultimately there are a few different answers to this question that is worthy of anyone knowing. Pass them on. I would like to know if I am even right in my own thinking.

Formation Trailzzz
KT Did

Ride Peeving.

2011-05-05T13:39:00.000-07:00

Pet Peeve. Not a major or overwhelming peeve. I don't lose sleep over this.. but wondering:

Am I just crazy or does it count to ride to a rally anymore? Look, I am not saying I will never trailer... but what I won't do is say I rode to a rally, and didn't. Hence comes my pet peeve.

On my Sturgis, Arizona & Laughlin rides I saw a lot who dropped their bikes and rode in for the last 100 miles or so.. that's okay. I have no problem with that. I don't have a problem with trailering. I know a few that do and they prefer to relax and ride there, set up camp and enjoy the RV part of the rally too... great! Love that...use the rally and all it's offerings.

But, I just don't understand why people are embarrassed to leave that out of a conversation and lead others to think that they rode.

I'll take this one step further: Is this a gender thing? I know men who trailer too... they have no problem telling the tale, as I see it. Is it just women? What do you think?

Riding The Peeving Trailzzz
KaTy Did

Late Center Line

2011-05-02T16:43:00.000-07:00

I know this doesn't count and its a day late, but ...

As much as I wanted to, I just couldn't get a pic of a centerline yesterday. Laughlin was full of bikes, trailers, and vehicles on just about every road with a yellow centerline. I gave up... here's a pic of my hot tired, swollen, non pedicured feet in flip flops on the parking line where my bike was parked....

Saying Goodbye To My Ural

2011-04-27T15:41:00.000-07:00

I sold my Ural Sahara today. Saying goodbye to Yaa Ya Ya was bittersweet, but the poor thing has been sitting in my garage since I bought the trike and it just seemed like it needed to have a new owner.

Here's a picture of me waiting for the new owner to arrive off the plane at Orange County this morning. Had I known that everyone wanted me to be their taxi cab, I might have kept it for making tours or something straight off the plane. I had a lot of offers... believe me!

Waithing For The New Owner

Here's a picture of the new owner. We went back to the house to do some minor adjustments. He's quite a bit taller than me and had to move the seat to its original position. Other than that... he was happy... regardless of how he looks here *funny*.

I got on my trike and waived goodbye as I led him to the freeway. He looked happy and said he would be home in a few days. Yaa Ya Ya was happy too, I could tell ... she never looked back...

Whaaaaa ......... :(((

Happy New Era Trailzzz to Yaa Ya Ya & To Me
KT Did

A Bloggers Centerline Day ABCD

2011-04-12T10:01:00.000-07:00

Passing this Post Around. Sounds Fun.
It is from Gary France's Blog, USA Tour On A Harley Davidson

Maybe you would like to join in with this.....

A Bloggers Centerline Day, or ABCD, will take place on Sunday 1st May 2011.

The plan is to inspire as many bloggers as possible to go outside and take a photograph of themselves on this day, wherever they are in the world. The photo can be creative, arty, contain more than one person, be in any type of location and can contain anything else you like. It must however contain the centerline of a road and at least part of you, the blogger.

There are 5 rules....

Rule 1 - the picture must be taken on 1st May 2011.

Rule 2 - the picture must be of yourself, and you must be a person that publishes a blog. You can include whatever else you like in the picture, including other people if you wish.

Rule 3 - the picture must include the centerline of a road.

Rule 4 – you should publish the picture on your blog on 1st May 2011, along with a few words about the picture and why you chose that location or pose.

Rule 5 - when you have posted the picture on your own blog, put a comment on http://garysusatour.blogspot.com/2011/04/abcd-will-you-take-part.html and include in that comment the address of your own blog post containing your own picture.

Gary France will then pick his favourite photos and publish these as being the winners. There will be a prize of $100 awarded to the overall single winner, as chosen by Gary.

In order to get this event known as widely as possible, please copy and paste this posting onto your own blog, including the title. Please do that today!

As a reminder to yourself to take the photo and post it, put an entry into your diary for 1st May 2011.

Let’s see if we can get as any people to join in as possible.

I will be doing it! This will be great to see the photos and what we all come up with!

Happy ABCD Trailzzzz.
KT Did

Arizona Bike Week/Memorial 2011

2011-04-09T20:49:00.000-07:00

The usual texting went between us all. Peeps texting for meet up, peeps texting to ride in, peeps needing buddy rides back, peep wanting to meet up and party. The wonders of what a biker rally brings to us just by texting. Even though we have been to many... they seem to be all different... each time. This rally held up to that. Arizona Bike Week 2011 was upon me.

I left on Wednesday and set out for a meet up in Cabazon at noon. Starbucks as usual. I have never ridden with Steve, but he was one who was in the texting realm of things. He comes riding up and we talk for a bit over coffee and we set off at our KSU time. No one else arrived. Most trailered their bikes. Maricruz was riding in on Friday. So off we went. Its a bit warm but the hills still have snow on them in the Palm Springs area. Its always windy on the freeways out of Palm Springs. Its only about 210 miles or so to Blythe and that is where I am staying over night.  My plans of seeing the Intaglios and river were thwarted by low gas and a very slow ride in to the next stop. Also turning off at an exit for what we thought was a gas station didn't help.  The longest 48 miles I have ever ridden. Blythe finally came upon us and a nice sigh was heard from my gut for miles around. It was too late to see the Intaglios... instead we spot a retro coffee shop straight out of the 70's. Had to go and enjoy a couple of margaritas and some dinner. After all, I am on "vacation rally time".  We split up after dinner and its off to my room and him his camping site on the river.

Again, the a.m. brings the Starbucks meet up at 9:30ish. We seemed to eat there for about an hour and leisurely take our time getting into Arizona. Its only about 167 miles and that leaves time to get settled and ride around and get my Arizona bearings when I get there.

The road gets punchy when there is nothing but straight desert. I look over at Steve and he is riding his bike like a bicycle. Legs going around and around in circles to make me laugh. I start cracking up and do the same. My favorite shirt is looking like a spinnaker because of the wind and I proceed to stand up on my floorboards and swoooshhhhh my Panoptx go flying off. All those cars and trailers we passed up, are now laughing at us pulled over to the side and looking for another spare pair. I am laughing and at the same time feel a little stupid. I find my other spare pair and off we go. Needless to say... my eyes were pretty red at destination Arizona from wearing a cheap pair...at least I had one though.

So, Steve and I get into Arizona. We went to our respective hotels and decide to meet up for eats and drinks. Food and The Dirty Dogg. Bean're was there along with Jack Shit reveling with the crowd of the Dogg. We walked in and friends John L., Gayle, Gunner and Tamalyn are in the bar having drinks. Its always great to see familiar peeps at the rallies.  I am finally meeting Ann and Daryl of our own blogging world Friday night. Karlene is not there and we never crossed paths... but I heard she had a great time, and from looking at her pics she did as usual.

Friday, brings a ride about town. Larry, CC's, guy is in the same hotel. We ride over together to Westworld, Its damn hot. Hitting triple digits today and going to Westworld early is a good thing. I need a new pair of Panoptx (now 7eye). We walk around for the morning and I get my goggles. Glad I did, it was windier than all hell riding back. I also get one of those leashes to keep it on this time. This is the 3rd pair of goggles I have lost on the freeway. Somehow I knew they were the perfect goggles when I looked down and there was a Katy Did sitting right there on the table...looking right through them. I grabbed my phone camera and took that pic.

The day was a relaxing ride around exploring the desert. I took a short ride around and back to the pool to relax and stay cool until evening.

Friday Night Plan: Nap and meet up with the Caveman's. Have a little din din and see Heart in concert at Westworld. Nap good. I text Ann. She texts back "will text you in a bit". A bit goes by. I call and Ann tells me they are buying a new bike and will see me when they are done. About 20 minutes go by and they call. They bought the bike and they are on their way. YEAAAA!! About 30 minutes later they ride up to the hotel and we meet and greet. She calls me a "wee". Hahahaha.... I love these guys already. Okay... so its 9:00 already. Concert has started. Karlene is texting "where are you". We are hungry and not going anywhere till we eat. So we ride and do a dinner at Denny's and get to know one another. Talk about everything we can. Who could leave these two! Ann always with her laughing and smiling and Daryl laughing along and telling jokes. We talked so long the concert is now another dream yet to be fulfilled. So we get up and go across the street to the Dogg for the evening.

We walk in and I see friend Chopper Doll sitting there, give her huggz and talk a bit. We head to the back because the Cavemans are smokers. So we find a spot in the back of this intimate cocktail joint where there is air for me, and we start having the time of our lives. They have a couple of other peeps joining them and all is loose now and we dig into the evening.  Of course, I have to pee... Ann says "she's not breaking the seal".... I say I have too. Off I go laughing. Chopper Doll has now been joined by Betsy and Qian and a couple of others. It was great. I get thrown onto the booth with them, hugs and hellos to them all and then stuck in the booth trying to get down. My body got down but my leg didn't. Jack Shit grabs my boot and there... I am on solid ground. I love seeing them at the rallies. They have such a great presence with riders.  I was told I couldn't take photos but there was plenty of cameras going off surrounding everyone. I look over and Steve somehow is up there too. He is smiling and probably just glad to be around a bunch of pretty ladies.  The Dirty Dogg was doggin that night for sure.

Anyways, I make my way back and the beer, jokes, tears and laughter brings the evening into closing. Chopper Doll says her goodbyes. She is pooped.   Ann and Daryl and I get aboard our rides and off we go. I get back around 3:00 a.m. Gaawwwdd I haven't pulled an all nighter in decades!

Saturday Plan: Get up and meet the Cavemans for the Buck Cherry Concert. Karlene wants to meet me too. Plan...totally fails. I am junk. I don't even wake up til about 3ish and when I did I couldn't stand my smoke smelling self. Man that was a good party last night!  I went into Old Scottsdale with Maricruz and had some great Mexican food. As soon as I stuffed myself with another margarita and food... I was junk again. Into the room I fled and took a nap. I didn't wake up til Buck Cherry was on.  I text Ann and just told her no can do.  She said no problem and made arrangement to see them on Sunday at the Memorial for Kimmy Chapman.

Sunday was a busy one for me. I wanted to see the Frank Lloyd Wright house, Taliesin West. So I mapped it out and Maricruz and her son Enrique joined me in the morning. We took half the tour. This is a spot I would recommend. Its actually not that far from Westworld and its just beautiful from where it sits on the hill with the desert surrounding this famous architect's home. Its a very soothing place.

Memorial: After leaving Maricruz I made my way back to Westworld for the official Celebration Of Life of Kimmy Chapman. Kimmy was a good friend of Ann and Daryl and an outstanding leader in the biker community of Arizona. She was much loved and her death was, and always will be a shock to them. For those that don't know, Kimmy Chapman was killed while riding on the back of her boyfriend's bike going home from a charitable event on March 26, 2011, right as Bike Week was ready to begin. She was one of the original sponsors of Arizona Bike week in 1997 and was recognized in 2009 as the Arizona Bike Week Honoree for her relentless giving to the motorcycle community.

I knew this was going to be a tough day for Ann and Daryl and those that knew Kimmy. What I didn't know was how hard it would hit me. I took pictures most of the time and decided to take the images so that people can remember what pain looks like. Instead, the images showed me what love looks like instead. These people were gathered there because they loved her and admired her and will truly miss her. They stood under the tent and listened to prayers said in her name. After the prayers, the crowd of love was moved outside the tent to view hundreds of white balloons go up into the sky and away while her family and friends looked on. After that, an Eagle, which was named after her, was set free into the air. With wings soaring, and the sky being freedom for the Eagle, everything came to a head for me. I broke down in Daryl's arms and felt so grateful for her presence in him.  All it took was putting the camera down and watching the Eagle fly into freedom. It was truly a site to be seen and a feeling to know and one I will never ever forget.

After the memorial, we all came together for hugs and kisses.  I feel that the bond that we share now has a life of its own. Maybe brought on by Kimmy's spirit. In any case, it was brought on by and with love. Something I will always honor.  So.....

We said our til next times at Westworld and I left to go take a little ride and back to the room to pack up for the ride home with Maricruz in the morning. I felt my weekend was complete and felt no need to do anything else but remember the days givings.

Maricruz and I enjoyed our ride home with our thoughts of Arizona going through our heads. She had a wonderful visit with her son and I got to meet and know knew friends.  The wind was alive and kicking, but Maricruz took it perfectly and me riding The Beast had not a problem.  I can part the Red Sea riding that thing, and its one of the reasons why I love that bike so much.

Anyway, another year... another bike rally, but this rally made me proud to be a rider.

Theyear has just sprung with our Spring and I surely hope I can meet up with more of my blogger peeps.  One day we will have a Blogger Ride Rally and enjoy the reading of that tale.

Thank You Kimmy For Your Spirit... It Surely Touched Me!

Spirit Trailzzzz
KT Did

MOTORCYCLING - BIKES: Motorcycle Safety Foundation Calls For An End To Distracted Driving

2011-04-07T21:49:00.000-07:00

MOTORCYCLING - BIKES: Motorcycle Safety Foundation Calls For An End To Distracted Driving

What's Wrong With This Picture!

2011-04-05T20:20:00.001-07:00

More pics to come from Arizona 2011.

I did time with Mr. & Mrs. Caveman.

It was the best!

Never Judge A Rider By The Machine He/or She Rides

2011-03-21T17:05:00.000-07:00

As most know, I bought a Street Glide Trike back in late July. Since I started riding the Trike, I seem to be consistently on this machine more than on my Deluxe. It has more comfort, bells and whistles, and just plain more power for me to enjoy than the Deluxe on distance. Because I have both two wheels and three wheels I wanted to share a couple experiences and comparisons:

1.) The wave.   A little helmet bow seems to be more welcome than the low flying hand out the side.

2.)  People are constantly coming up to me and talking to me about the trike more than the Deluxe. I don't mind it, I rather like it. But when I walk away from it to go into a store and turn around and they are sitting on it... me no likey.  Strange.

3. People assume that since it has 3 wheels, its a toy and its easier to ride. Its not a toy. Its not easier. It uses all the motorcycle skills used with 2 wheels. You just can't lean, put your feet down or split lanes. Yes, you can fly off and injure, or worse, kill yourself just the same.

4. Keep in mind, splitting lanes is legal only in the State of California, so really, when you think of it, that is no problem for me on distance rides in other states.  If you have 2 wheels, you will be sitting in traffic right beside the trikes.

5.) I don't know why trikes are in the rear of a pack. I really wouldn't want a 1000+ pound trike hitting my two wheels from behind. Besides, if the pack splits lanes ... why would I wait behind all the traffic when I can calculate my own ride and get there more efficiently. Hmmmm...... reason why I don't ride runs, even on two wheels.  Its also clip city on those rides.

Lastly, I have to share this little story of a recent trike ride of mine:

I am riding home from our local Cooks Corners. There is another rider ahead of me. We stop at the stop light. He has one lane. I have the other next to him on his right. Traffic is light... hardly any vehicles. I look over. He doesn't. Its obvious I am there. The light is long. He is trying desperately not to look at me.  Okay, I do the stare down. Now I am laughing a tad and look forward to go. Light turns green. We throttle on. He moves ahead and really trys to ditch me, However, I like to enjoy the open stretch as much as any other so I am keeping good pace with the road and rider. As a matter of fact, I pass him. Red light. Again we are joined together at the light. No look. Light turns green. We throttle on. I shrug my shoulders and I make my turn and go up my road to home and he goes straight. I take a little ride around the neighborhood before I hit my garage. Look who I see coming the other way. He does a double take this time as he passes me.   I guess he finally realizes I am his neighbor. Yep... the chick he talked to just a couple of days ago when she was riding her Softail Deluxe...me.   I see him turning around. He pulls up. I am down into my driveway by now and in the garage.  He shouts down at me, "I didn't know it was you"! As I sat on the bike and looked up to him, I bowed my head, smiled and closed my garage door.

"Never judge a rider by the machine he/or she rides", I say to myself. It was a good ride.

Happy Trike Profiling Trailzzzz
KT Did

Sturgis North & The Great Canadian Bike Rally

2011-03-14T11:26:00.000-07:00

My friends at Virtual Riding TV are the official media sponsor for the First Annual Sturgis North Motorcycle Rally and Music Festival, in Salmon Arm British Columbia on July 13th-17th 2011. They are providing High definition videos of the surrounding areas for the motorcyclists to have an advanced look at some of the great spots to ride, before, during and after the event. They are really great videos!

Virtual Riding TV is also the official media sponsors for The Great Canadian Bike Rally which is a non-profit organization formed for the purpose of organizing a community event for motorcycle enthusiasts and raising money for kids. The organizations supported are the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation and Circle Square Ranch Children’s Fund (to build a kid’s camp). I love that!

If any of you have ever considered riding BC or have, this is the perfect opportunity to get the rally fix and some beautiful rides in. The music lineup is looking really great too with Eric Burden, Steppenwolf, Pat Travers, loads of local bands & more. Check it out...discuss...meet up and ride!

Happy Canadian Rally Trailzzz

Arizona Bike Week

2011-02-20T20:24:00.000-08:00

Spring is approaching, whether or not it feels like it, and the rallies are setting themselves up for a robust year. Or are they?

By now, Laughlin River Run is normally set up with concerts and their site is full of events for the offering. As of this writing, nothing. Nothing except for the high priced rooms. I am not planning on going this year to Laughlin as I have in the past. Instead, I am thinking, just thinking, of riding into the Arizona Bike Week instead.

Arizona Bike Week already has a good showing of bands playing, including one of my favorites from the past, Heart. Vendors have been lined up and the website is full of maps and rides.

Considering the recession and the fact that most riders are picking and choosing the rallies and rides these days a lot more carefully, some rallies, unfortunately are going to be a thing of the past, i.e. The Love Ride. Maybe even Laughlin. I don't think people are going to be emptying their pocketbooks to some of these high prices hotels are putting out there. Laughlin's average hotel price for that weekend is a few hundred bucks on the average. The day after the rally, it goes back down to an average of $25.00 per night. Doesn't sound reasonable enough to me.

So, I guess what I am saying is... I am going where the pickin's are better in vendors and music if I am going to put out $$$ for a hotel. Then I can make up some riding I missed that last time, like the Sedona mountains. It is a beautiful State full of colorful mountains and history. Soooo.........Kinda looking forward to it.

The events are starting to roll into gear and I think the decision is which one offers more bang for the buck to pick and choose from. I think so far, for the month of April here in the West, it is Arizona Bike Week. I know a few of you are from Arizona, and if you hear of any interesting rides or happenings during that week, throw them on here for me so I can make a final decision. To go or not to go...

For Now...
Happy Decision Trailzz

KT Did

Ride To The Butterflies

2011-02-15T09:32:00.000-08:00

Lynda W. and I took a nice little ride up to Pismo Beach and had a very relaxing time enjoying the sights of Monarch Grove. It is migration season til the end of February and the Euclyptus trees are full of butterflies. We walked the beaches, piers and the little town of Pismo is very charming to eat, drink & be merry in.

The ride was a little chilly, but understanding that California's cold is nothing compared to the East, I have to say it was a very pleasant for me. I love being colder than hot anyway. The summer is no time for riding for me, so this is my time of year.

Lynda and I met at the Harley Dealership in Anaheim... our usual spot to meet up. She doesn't like to get up early either, so she was a perfect riding companion. We KSU'd at 11:00a.m. and took our sweet time riding up there.

It was a different story on the way back though. Traffic and lots of it delayed us a little. Lynda and my hands were gumbified by the time we hit central L.A. and we pulled over for a bit. Then it was clear riding home from there. Otherwise it was a perfect trip and hope to do it soon again.

Here is a little slideshow of the trip. I hope you enjoy the butterflies, birds and everything else.

Butterfly Trailz
KT Did

1967 FLH Decision

2011-02-04T16:42:00.000-08:00

I have made the decision not to get the FLH. Its seems that many, who know me, have deemed me unable to wrench and upkeep a bike like this. I have to agree. Taking on this project would probably drive me crazy and hunting down someone to help me out all the time, is something I just can't do. So here are some pics I took today of the bike. It is for sale. He has a lot of the parts.

This is nice too. '61 Willys Jeep, no engine. Original upholstry.

If anyone is interested e-mail me and I will give you information to contact directly.

Happy Football Trailzz to you this weekend.
KT Did

Memory-a spoof by Pam Peterson

2011-01-28T15:49:00.000-08:00

1967 FLH Help.

2011-01-17T19:24:00.000-08:00

Okay my blogger friends... here is the scoop. I have a chance to buy a bike from a dear friend/Viet Nam Vet who has retired and is now going to spend retirement in his motor home checking out the U.S. This bike is special, as it is a part of my memory life back in the late 70's when I first started riding around Orange County... albeit on the hineee seat. I set my feet at Cooks Corners in 1978 with him and two other men who gave me my very best girlsfriends, Pammeramps and Wild Val. Here's the info. I need help in pricing and help in finding out what its going to take. This is a copy of the e-mail with some info on it:

Its a 1967 FLH. They only made that model for 4 years. It has sat for a long time. The tranny and lower end are good. Pistons need some attention. Master brake cylinder needs to be rebuilt...battery probably tires, chain. He raced it against the best back when and the speedo pegged at 120 mph and never came back. Still sets on 120. He was never beat. Engine guts are S&S, He had an old school guy who did all the balancing on Edelbraks raceing engines balance it. All the engine parts are balaced to 36th 100th of a gram stroked 84 inches, Andrews B grind cam S&S super carb. He has all the stuff I would need to put an electric start.

There it is so far as far as information. Keep in mind I am not a wrencher. Give it to me.

KaTy Did

California Traffic Tickets Fines Effective 1/6/2011

2011-01-10T18:36:00.000-08:00

This was sent to me from fellow friend and rider David G. on my Facebook page. If you don't know about these new laws... read on. I didn't know the ticket price on most and its worthy to keep it in mind while driving/riding California. Thank you David for passing this info on.

California Traffic Tickets Fines Effective 01/06/2011

HUGE California Traffic Tickets Fines Effective 01/06/2011

Please be extremely careful in your driving and car registration & insurance matters. California is broke!

Effective immediately, if you do not stop at a red light, be ready to pay $436 in fines, or if you pass a school bus with flashing red signals, you will be charged $616. The State of California is going for blood, so be extra careful in driving, You cannot afford messing with them. The next time you park in the handicapped zone, even for a minute, you could be looking at almost $ 1000 in parking tickets , so it'd better be worth it.

California needs your money, so pay close attention to the rules of the road!

Traffic Ticket Fines (Effective 01/06/2011)

VC 12814.6 $214 Failure to obey license provisions.

VC 14600(A) $214 Failure to notify DMV of address change within 10 days
Note: The fine may be reduced with valid proof of correction.

VC 16028(A) $796 Failure to provide evidence of financial responsibility (insurance)
Note: This fine may be reduced with proof of insurance on or after the violation date.

VC 21453(A) $436 Failure to stop at a red signal.

VC 22349 $214 Unsafe speed, 1 to 15 miles over the limit.

VC 22350 $328 Unsafe speed, 16 to 25 miles over the limit.

VC 22450 $214 Failure to stop at a stop sign.

VC 22454(A) $616 Passing a school bus with flashing red signals.

VC 23123(A) $148 Driving while using a wireless phone not hands free, first offense .

VC 23123(B) $256 Driving while using a wireless phone not hands free, each subsequent offense.

VC 23123.5 $148 Driving while using a wireless device to send, read or write text.

VC 23124 $148 Minor driving while using a wireless phone.

VC 22500 $976 Parking in a bus loading area.

VC 22507(A) $976 Violation of disabled parking provisions, first offense.

VC 22507(B) $1876 Violation of disabled parking provisions, second offense.

VC 26708 $178 Unlawful material on vehicle windows.

VC 27150 $178 Adequate muffler required.

VC 27315 $148 Mandatory use of seat belts.

VC 27360 $436 Mandatory use of passenger child restraints.
Note: This fine may be reduced by completing a court authorized child seat diversion program .

VC 27400 $178 Headsets or Earplugs covering both ears.

VC 27803 $178 Violation of motorcycle safety helmet requirements.

VC 34506 $616 Commercial Driver - Log book violation.

VC 4000 $256 No evidence of current registration.
Note: The fine may be reduced with valid proof of correction.

VC 4159 $178 Notify DMV of change of address within 10 days.
Note: The fine may be reduced with valid proof of correction.

VC 5200 $178 Proper display of license plates.
Note: The fine may be reduced with valid proof of correction.

VC 9400 $178 Commercial weight fees due.

Again, Thanks David for this valuable information.

KT Did

.

Vivian Maier, street photographer and nanny

2011-01-07T12:17:00.000-08:00

Nothing to do with motorcycles, but a wonderful find of history in a woman's photography. Take a look at this video and say "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh"!

New Motorcycle Law For Under 21.

2011-01-03T12:02:00.000-08:00

I think this is a great law. I probably will get some flack for that comment, but most know I am in for education for riding motorcycles. This law took effect January 2, 2011. It requires that all under the age of 21 take a motorcycle/rider course. Bravo I say! Bravo!

Teens co-author motorcycle safety law

HAPPY NEW YEAR FULL OF WONDERFUL MEMORIES

2010-12-31T08:00:00.000-08:00

So here we are at the end of a decade. 2010. Geeezzz... when I was a kid I thought I would be in an old folks home or dead. 2010 wasn't even in my reality. It was visualizing the Jetsons and commuting through the air on Disney like rides. Lucy & Ricky were the ultimate couple. So what happened?  Did we not meet our childhood expectations of the future? Did we not see that we would still be enjoying the control of the marriage of rubber and asphalt?   How freakin' lucky are we!? Pretty damned blessed! That's what I say.

However, at the end of this decade, I can still say I really miss the gas stations of the past decades. Where my Dad sang "Kakoline like in Gasoline" to me every time we stopped for gas.  The men working wearing their little hats coming up to the car window and my father saying "Filler up with Supreme". I still dream of the Mel's Drive-In in Oakland where the perfect chocolate milkshake was served by girls on roller skates to the car window's tray, I so much wanted to wear that red lipstick and skate like that. The Sweet Shoppe in Alameda next to the Alameda Theatre, is one of my favorite memories from my first year in high school. It was the gathering spot and listening to the Doors, Cream, Iron Butterfly, Eric Burden & The Animals was normality. The Sweet Shoppe was where all the Rosie The Riveters hung out in Alameda during WWII...she just left this earth the other day. The Alameda Theatre was the place I saw Easy Rider... Dennis Hopper now past this last year. I still cherish that album and have the picture I took sitting on one of the Captain America's from my first ride to Laughlin in 2006 sitting in front of it in my room. I still have my A-1 film camera... just yesterday the last developer of film went out of business yesterday. Prings in San Leandro was a place where choppers and cars cruised to on Friday and Saturday nights. When my cousin went to Viet Nam he let me take care of his MG and I cruised that strip dreaming of owning a bike one day. Of course, I can never forget seeing The Beatles at the Cow Palace and just watching them on Ed Sullivan was enough to put me under. Paul McCartney just was awarded the Kennedy Honors this week. When The Rolling Stones came out I was already sneaking out to Filmore West for concerts in S.F...now I'm reading their memoirs. I still don't know why I am alive after all that. Hitchhiking was a way of transportation back then... not a way of death like today. Somehow I made it through all this, and more. I could write a book, but I think it would be about many lives who lived the same crazy life. So what happened to all those "things" we were told was going to be part of life in the 2000 decade?

I really don't have an answer for that except that I believe its getting back to basics. People want basics. The economy of the last few years have taken us back a bit, by force for most. But most have cherished that spot of holding on to what we have right now. To a spot of memories, of home and of just enjoying life as it is. Being grounded. Back to a way of togetherness and listening to the past that forged our future.   Back to the asphalt to the dirt road. I think this is why I don't feel like an old bag...even though the number is there, I'm not that 56 year old I thought I would be when I was a kid. The life of riding has actually given me youth...with greying hair. Its given me freedom. Its torn me out of the "cookie cutter" group of my mother's generation. Its given me the road of life. The basics. Something I hope the kids of today can recall when they are my age. The wonderment of it all to feel the way I did when I saw The Beatles in 1964 still overcomes me when riding from 2010 into 2011.

So, my wish to you for the New Year, is that everyone grasp the next decade with a zest for life to make those precious memories of today last into decades of the future...just like those extinct gas stations and rock stars past.  Tell the future why the existence of two wheels and the road will prevail. In any way you want. Its different, but the same, for all that ride, but I believe its because there is nothing like it in the world. Absolutely nothing that can replace the feeling (except of course, seeing The Beatles in concert once again). But again, that's MY feeling. YOUR feeling will go down in your history too. So with that....

Wishing you all many future decades of making motorcycle memories. Cheers to the future!

Happy New Year!!
KT Did

California Gets Tougher On Motorcycle Thieves

2010-12-30T10:36:00.000-08:00

I'm passing this news around. U.S. Rider News reports, it is good news for those of us that own motorcycles and bad news for those ripping them off.

Beginning the 1st of January in California, a new law will make it a crime for anyone to carry a device used for stealing motorcycles.

At least one good motorcycle law came out of California lawmakers last year.

Read the full story at U.S. Riders News.

KT Did

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-21T17:37:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Everyone and have a Happy Healthy New Year!

Merry Christmas from Santa Murray. He went with me to deliver toys on the bike.

Hoping you have wonderful Christmas Spirits during the holiday!
Wild Vals Spirited Nutcrackers attending the spirit bar.

Blazing the Christmas Happy Trailzzzzz
KT Did

Sturgis--The Final Frontier

2010-12-14T17:18:00.000-08:00

Its morning and all I can think of is riding through Yellowstone. Rained all night and its still raining, however, not much. I have my morning tea and eat my oatmeal, shower and load up the bike. Its about 6:00 a.m. and even though its trying to get light out, the clouds keep the sun from shining through. Every night I have gotten into the habit of reading my maps and checking the roads and weather out for the next day's ride and this day brings a little detour into it because of the weather. Not bad though. I am not worried and it is suppose to clear before 10 or 11:00 this morning. I find out the roads near Jackson are having construction on them and the weather isn't helping that traffic out. So I use Plan B and skip Jackson. Instead I choose to ride up on the 20 and pass through just above Jackson...the advice of the HD parts guy. He helped me plan a little detour just in case. Again, local advice is the best.

I have layered and leathered up, so far that has worked for me. I don't mind riding through the rain either...it smells good. A few miles on the road and I turn onto the freeway. Not many people on the road yet and I throttle on so I can get to Yellowstone and spend some time there before Billings.

About an hour or so on the road the rain is gone and I am a little cold so I pull off for a break and ask questions to the locals of sight seeing. Up the road, I am told is the turn off to Yellowstone National Park and to pick a route. Destination is a go. I layer a little more leather and I get back on the road until I see the signs of Yellowstone National Park. I made it to Yellowstone! I yell in my mask and enjoy the moment of accomplishment. The roads are perfect and the scenery is incredible...and I have only just started. I am eating it up. In particular now, because I do have the roads almost to myself. I take my time riding through this part. It is a breathtaking moment to me.

I ride this road for awhile until, I see a sign "Targhee National Forest" and I pull over for a photo op. Its picturesque and vast with green.. "just like the National Geographic pictures," I think to myself, except I am here. It is quiet. It is huge. Its beautiful and a must see, must ride for all. I get out my AAA book and read a little about this spot and enjoy it...then I get going. I don't have all day, I have to stay focused. I'm planning my next trip there already.
Its been light now for awhile, and more people are on the roads, in particular trailers and motor homes. But, passing through Targhee and into the Grand Teton National Park is absolutely gorgeous and having it obscured by a trailer is not on my list of wants. So I pass it and suddenly find myself on my own road. I'm not sure where I am and I am thinking while I passed the trailer I may have missed a turnoff? I dunno, but I am in a beautiful place where every so often there is a fly fisherman in the river running along the sides of this road. Yes, its the River Runs Through It place. It's topography is filled with lush greenery and trees and I feel I have discovered a perfect spot to pull over. I take pics of the river and sit awhile watching and listening to the waters flow. I would love to have that sound in my backyard. Pulling myself away I know have to get back on the road... I realize I have spent a few hours already meandering and still have not made half way.

This river was on each side of the road

Signs start to appear shortly confirming that not only am I going the right direction but, I am headed into the town of West Yellowstone and soon I join civilization. Its packed here. I wait to get gas. Wait to pee. Wait to get some coffee. Still not many riders on the roads, but more than yesterday. I talk to a few, and again, it seems a lot are not on their way to Sturgis but they are coming back from their journeys. Just like our Mike Althouse from 25 Year Plan. I also find out I did a giant loop from Hwy 20 to 14 and back... go figure that one out....I was at a spot called Fishing Bridge and didn't even know it. Sooo......

Since I am back on 20 I head north to start my journey to Billings. Still in Yellowstone I go north through Gallatin Mountain Range and connect to the 89 via Bozeman/Livingston. I stop to have lunch with two riders headed to Sturgis. We exchange stories and then they are off. They only have two days to spend there, so they are making time. I decide I'd better too. There is just too much to see in Yellowstone. I need at least a week there. At least now I have some kind of idea what its all about and next time, there will be one too, I will allow for it. I ride and leave Yellowstone with a kiss til next time.

I arrive in Billings in pretty good time. Just before the next big storm. I walk over from my hotel to eat and find a couple of riders there again to talk to...except that they were deaf. I sign a little, but not enough to keep a good conversation going. Luckily they could read lips and we had a wonderful talk They hadn't a room yet and had ridden in from Canada to go to Sturgis to meet up with their non-hearing club. They were both pretty much worn out. So was I. I go back to my room and hear that the storm is a big one and possibly even a tornado. I go back to the deaf riders and tell them... they leave and I see them check into a room there. About 10 minutes later I am covering my bike in the rain and wind. Whewwww.... just in time, once again. The hotel is filled up and once again, we are all out of our rooms talking and checking out the rain.

This is my last night on the road. Sturgis is tomorrow. I'm out like a light and up and out by 7:00 a.m. Its pretty much a straight shot from Billings to Sturgis. Miles and miles between rest stops. I blew by the Little Bighorn Monument and continued through Buffalo and Gillette. Toy haulers were now on the sides of the road disembarking bikes to ride into Sturgis. "I am happy I rode", I say to myself " *grin*. I turned off to what I thought was the turnoff to Deadwood. I'm lost again. I find out I took an earlier turnoff and ended up in the town of Sundance. I rode the little back roads there until I found a gas station and food and of course, a local to steer me in the right direction. The Black Hills. I am there. Rocks have beautiful trees growing out of them. Not bad to get lost for an hour or so riding in. I notice that riders were all around now and its about 4:00p.m. Time to find my digs in Deadwood, but first I must ride through the town of Sturgis. Sort of a rider's right when you ride there.

Going through the town of Sturgis can get a little cranky. Stop and go, but riding down that street was a moment of self celebration. A just for me moment, so to speak. Call it ego or whatever...it was my way of patting my back. So I did. It was great. Nothing can compare to the feeling of riding there, and riding there solo. Yahoooo. Party time.

I arrive at the Martin Mason. Turned the key off. Sat there and cried, smiled and went to have a drink...actually had two. Checked into my room and relished every moment. No way did I feel like washing the bike... it needed it too.

Best Variety sign in background says it all.

It was surreal... still is. Its hard to think that I rode 7 states and went through 4 National Forests. I know that a lot of riders out there do this all the time and maybe because its my first time that I am all gooey about it. Somehow I don't think so, because I still hear other riders tell their tale of each year's ride there. You never get over it.

All in all, it panned out the way I planned it out. I accomplished a goal...to ride to Sturgis. I spent 16 days enjoying this country's roads and cities on my motorcycle... solo. I took that many days so I could enjoy it. 2 days of breakdown and repairs hit me, but I got to visit with an old high school friend Lisa L. in Reno. I met many new faces on the road. I got the best advice I could ever get, "Trust your bike". I received an enormous amount of support from everyone I talked to before and during the ride. I never felt endangered in any way, shape or form. I ate well and enjoyed every bit of it. I went prepared and never felt uncomfortable when I was lost... and I was lost a couple of times. I found out a lot about myself on this trip and know that I can do just about anything I put my strength into, even wearing the same riding clothes for six days. No one can take this trip away from me. Its all about FREEDOM. Its all about being free to do it. America is beautiful.

Happy Riding Trailzzz
KT Did
p.s. Oh... you ask about the rest of the story? What happens in Sturgis... stays in Sturgis. Well... maybe a post in the future...we will see. More pics are at http://www.akatydidgig.net/

Sturgis-Part 3

2010-10-14T15:48:00.000-07:00

Even though I had a breakdown, I actually had a good time in Reno visiting Virginia City, checking out Hot August Nights, and having lunch with Lisa from High School was great. We hadn't seen each other in decades. She lives in Tahoe and has a wild hair in her soul too. What I really admire about her, is that she lives her life. That is so important to me and probably the main reason why I ride. Life is here for the living--live it.

I don't like getting up early, but I'm out of here, time to go and beating the heat is a must today with triple digits on the charts. Early is the only way on hot days. The Best Western in Reno was very accommodating to me considering the rally was in full force with Hot August Nights. I parked the bike in the front this time along with some other riders. There were 4 other Harleys and a BMW. Seems that everywhere I go people want to know about the trike and where's the man riding it with me. "I'm riding solo" was a continued mantra throughout the trip. The BMW owner, David, was no different. He's an older guy and rode out from Tennessee. The 4 Harleys trailered from Colorado. David, comes over and shoots up a conversation. We speak of the last couple of days. Even though I never considered going back, I hated having the thought of my brakes going out again in the back of my head while riding. David gives me the best advice on the whole trip: "Kathy, I would just trust the bike now", he says. "You had it worked on, now trust it and enjoy this ride". "Trust the bike". Boy, those words were so profound for me. Hearing David's message, I finished loading my bike, hugged goodbye, and never really thought about mechanical problems again. The ride is rolling.

Weather reports have the heat high today so I am riding to beat it. Giving myself a choice of 50E and 80E, I take 80E...the fastest. 50 offers a little road game in which you pick up a booklet up in Fenley and get it stamped at little ghost towns on the way. Looking back, I think it would have been a much more interesting ride compared to just desert. However, I have decided to cut out Salt Lake City for a stop, to make up for 2 lost days... 80E it is.

In Winnemucca, I pull over for fuel and food. I meet a couple who rode from New York to San Francisco and now on their way to Sturgis. They ask me if it will be hard to get a room there.... "huh"? I smiled and said "yes...its Sturgis". Camping was their solution. I looked at the bike... no gear. Are you kidding me? I caught myself and, had to remember its Sturgis, and that's what most do.... camp. Camp naked, so to speak. We exchanged phone numbers just in case. She rode off in her white blouse and high heeled boots....... left me there thinking why I look so butt ugly in this heat wearing my fishing shirt and bugged spattered boots. Oh well.....

So now I throw on my Polar Vest and its time to head on to Ely looking more uglier. I bought the thermal bag and packed 2 rounds of ice packs. Each round lasts 8-12 hours. Its not very fashion forward, but when I am hot, I am not pretty anyway. So.... I put it on, water down my head and neck wrap and off I go into the triple digits looking butt ugly in the middle of the day.

I get into Ely a couple of hours later. Ely was specifically booked as a stop to rest since I had to change plans and was not stopping in Salt Lake. Tomorrow again, is a triple digit day and I want to miss as much of the heat as I can. I want to make Idaho Falls timely so I can enjoy my surroundings there. Just having Ely as a stopover surprised me. Its was nice to find out that Ely is a city full of offerings. Its part of the Great Basin National Park and home to some great rodeos with home grown music and pretty good food. If you are into rodeos, this is a place to be to see one. Its also the closest City to Salt Lake and has a few casinos before hitting stateline. My curiosity overwhelms my tiredness. I ride out to check out this town and its surroundings. I ride awhile in the nearby hills and discover how pretty it is, in a ghostly way. Its hard to keep in mind that this was the way West. These were roads trecked on by our pioneers. They didn't have Polar vests. My helmet is off to our forefathers and women who made history in those travels. They were bad ass before the term was even thought of. Time to eat dinner and talk to some locals. I ride back to my room, and I snuggle up to my Hostess cupcake and milk and think... It was a great day to ride and check life out. ZZZZZZZZZZZ....

I'm up early and this time, its not so hard. After getting up early the past few mornings, I guess I am getting used to it. I set out on the ride in chaps and a leather jacket. Its cold in this basin this morning... until about thirty minutes out. Now I am hot and panting like dog. I pull over at a rest stop and throw the polar vest on and get on the ride again. Better. This Polar vest is working wonders. I am not complaining to myself at all about the heat and before I know it, I find myself in a sea of white desert land. I'm finally at Bonneville Salt Flats. For miles and miles it goes on. It feels good to be in this place of celebrity. It is desolate and has absolutely nothing around for miles. Noise out here doesn't matter. I have passed a few trucks and a few riders, but this road makes I-5 in California look sweeeet!

Bonneville Salt Flats

A Bit of Mountains from Hwy80
Salt Flats

I pull over for a photo op. The realization of historic speed records happening here is more than one can take. It is vast. I get a feeling of pride as a rider standing on this land. I start to think about Burt Monro known for The World Fastest Indian and what he went through mentally and physically just to get here to make history. What a rush, and its at this point, I am grateful I rode 80E. Now I can say I have been there and felt it...with pride.

On the road again, I pass a couple of riders on the way to Salt Lake. Not one CHP around and I am not wasting time. Always, on that bike I get the thumbs up and when I passed the two riders, they were all smiles. A little ego goes through me to make the rest of ride not so dull. Then that caddy ego catches up on me...I am getting pelted by road shtufff. The wind has also kicked up and I can really feel The Beast's motions. The butt ugly has a reason now... my legs are getting beat up by bugs and they hurt...but my boots are getting most of the hits and guts. I wonder how the NYorkers are doing in white blouses & high heels. I think to myself, "there is a reason for gear".

I pull over in Salt Lake for gas and a snack and to mend my bruised bugged hands, and look who pulls up. The two riders I passed, Steve & (? sorry forgot his name)...They are laughing and smiling as they say I must have been doing 90 or so through the bug town. They said they were doing 80 or so, while being pelted. Oh well, just saying, its wonderful to have cruise control. We exchange wind/bug guts and bruise stories. Gassing up also proved my having airhead moments on the road... the gas I have been smelling for the last 200 miles or so is because I left my gas cap at the last station. Yuk... another stop at Harley. I'm shuffling for my maps. They are too. We are all laughing and cracking up at each other. We decide we are all road punchy. Together we locate maps and I get myself new directions. They do too. They are avoiding the weather by going south... looks like I am going into it north. I have another 180 miles or so to go, so I tell my new found friends to have fun in Sturgis, safe ride and off I go to Idahooooooo.

I finally start seeing some scenery. The wind has really kicked in but only for about an hour or so. Idaho Falls is coming up and soon I pull into the Grand Teton Harley Davidson. Gas cap waiting for me at the desk. Calling ahead was genius with gasbrain. I rest awhile and watch the line of people getting their rentals for the rally ride. The closer I get, the more peeps are coming onto the road for Sturgis. I'm getting more excited at each stop. Not just for the rally... but because I am actually riding it, being an actual part of it. People are telling their stories of rides, and the road camaraderie has now really begun.

So, The Beast has a new gas cap, and I can breathe easier now. I am hungry and I want to see some scenery. Rain is coming in about 4:00. With some locals and their directions, I get to my room at the Best Western. I like this location. I like this room. The bike is right out the door and the river and falls are right there in walking distance. Its very pretty here. I have about an hour or so before the rain. So I unpack, brush the hair and off I go for a walk to the river and eat. My legs are numb and I need to move and only have a couple of hours before the storm moves in.

Idaho Falls

The walk feels good and I get to the river. The sounds of the falls are a nice change from road music. The banks have ducks and birds swimming around and they have no worries of the impending storms. The skies are blue with the clouds making their way in. I stop at the riverbank and take some pictures. A group of Amish are walking and enjoying the sights all in uniform. Speaking their language is a romantic sound for some reason to me. They are always smiling, and seeing their faces enjoy nature as I am makes me think how grand this country is of ours for so many different cultures. I ask to take a picture of them, but have to respect the shaking of their heads sideways, so we just smile and enjoy the moments of this privilege together. There is a feeling of completeness for me.

Idaho Falls, beginning of the rain. Notice

no cars. The Amish had most of the rooms

they all carpooled into 2 vans. Bikers should have camped in the spaces :)

I rode, I ate, I walked and I talked... I'm in for TV now. I get back and it starts to rain. I am thinking I'd better put the cover on just in case its gets bad. By the time I get outside and put it on, it is pouring and the wind is blowing like crazy. The Amish are staying at my hotel. We gather in front of the rooms and watch Mother Nature take its course. News has it as an all niter for the rain. Motorcycles are being turned away. The rooms are all booked. Its sad seeing them all told no rooms available when its raining so hard. I have to go in... I feel guilty. I'm going into hiding so they can't see me. Then I think...one word "Reservations". I finally get into the shower. Then I snuggle into TV while eating my Hostess cupcake with my milk and I get my mind ready for tomorrow. I listen to the rain. Tomorrow I ride through Yellowstone. I have two more days on the road to Sturgis.

One More Episode to Happy Trailzz...
KT Did

Caption Time

2010-10-11T23:48:00.000-07:00

This picture cracks me up. What can we come up for a caption...

9/11 Remember Ride 2010

2010-09-13T13:25:00.000-07:00

Sturgis Ride-Part 2

2010-08-27T19:25:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to upload all the photos and Go Pro Hero mini flicks and I have so many I have to pick and choose. So I have decided to put them on my Smug Mug Photo site as I upload them. I have to convert the mini movies over and it takes a little time so not all are up yet. At this writing, I am on the road again. So with that tidbit of info, on with the Sturgis Ride....

First Round Over

Its starts getting a lot more scenic on this part of my trip. As I think most of my readers know, I grew up in Northern California so I am pretty familiar with it. I wanted to take this route for a couple of reasons, the south route was just too weather ridden with thunderstorms, etc., and this route has the trees and the parks I wanted to venture into on this ride.

I woke up at the crack of 10:00 and got on the road by 11:00 a.m. I am going to Grass Valley . Not a long ride from the East Bay. It's about 142 miles. I planned the days to not be long in the places I wanted to explore...so far so good. I would be there in 3 hours or so with stopping. Its another straight shot up the 80, through Sacramento, Roseville and then Auburn exit onto the 49.

There is little Saturday traffic and coming out of the Bay is an easy ride. It is foggy and cold, so I am wearing my leathers and loving it. I rather be cold than hot. Going up the pass and over into Sacramento Valley brings traffic. Seems its always at this spot. After playing in and outs with traffic I pass Sacramento and find it time to pull over for some refreshing. I'm a little hungry now and I hear a Subway sandwich and a diet Pepsi calling my name. I have to park in a spot that's a little squirmy to get in and out of. I realized the "out" part of it when I get ready to get back out of the space, I discover my reverse doesn't work on The Beast. The reverse is out. So I push. Luckily it is easier than it looks. Second memo to myself... Need to stop at the Auburn Harley when I get there. Two Harley shops in two days!! I call ahead and guess what!? No Auburn Harley Davidson anymore...all gone. "Its only my reverse", I say to myself, there is an HD in Reno and a couple in Salt Lake. I just have to park it strategically. I can do.

Leathers stay on the bike and my favorite Columbia shirt goes on. When it gets hot I put this on. It covers my arms and keeps me cool with an SPF. You see it on me in a lot of pics. Anyway, I only have an hour or so left, I get on and go. I welcome the Auburn exit to 49 as I know it will bring me some trees and scenery that I have been looking forward to on this ride. The ride from this point to Grass Valley is not a long one...only about 30-40 minutes depending on the turnoff I want to take.

I am now in the Gold Country a major part of California's history and my brother and his family lives here and I look forward to a little open air exploration with them. Hwy-49 is a great ride. This two lane road is a scenic and very serene ride for me. It is a safe one too, if people just obey the speed limits and read the signage. The road brings you by historic landmarks and small towns. The trees are starting to come out into view and the smell of green is becoming more prominent. I don't feel the heat either anymore. The altitude is getting higher and I'm luvin' it. Its perfect riding weather and it shows on the roads. A lot of riders are out, and up here where it snows, riding time matters. Those of you in the snow country know what I am taking about. Getting the rides in before it starts coming. There is so much to explore up here that one days is not enough. Plenty of twisties and curves to enjoy on the way to brother's house.

I have to say one thing about this bike/trike. There is a skill to get acquainted with on the curves. There is a feeling of turn-over at first, but once you get used to the examining of curves, it comes naturally. Having the sidecar outfit I think, helped me out. This bike has a lot of power and it can take the curves just as well as 2 wheels, but there is practice to that. Having a motorcycle license helps too. I honestly have to say I miss the leaning into curves, but negotiating them and staying in speed with them is easy to accomplish. This is a great bike for this ride.

Okay...I get to my brother's house and Tommy greets me with a "I want a ride Aunt Kathy"! "You got it baby", I say! I have been looking forward to this. I go to my gear and pull out my 3/4 helmet and told Tommy he had to wear it. At first he didn't want to (future anti-helmet law lobbyist), but, of course, he can't ride with me unless he has the lawful helmet on. Happily he puts it on after the threat of no ride unless. I had to hide the bling HD emblem on the helmet as I put it on him (such a little manly man). My jacket went on him too. He was wearing shorts, so since he was on the back of The Beast and not far to go, I let it slide. I told him to hold on... Mommy and Daddy looking on as he grabbed me by the boobs... we all cracked up as I pulled his little arms down farther and told him that's where my waist is. So we get going and all I hear all the way is laughs and "cool" and "lets keep going". I'm only going about 20 mph and he is reveling in it. So am I. We finally get to our stop, The Empire Mine. He is laughing and wanting to go on, but Auntie has to be a tourist for awhile. There will be plenty of other times, I am sure of it. He is a natural leaner.

The Empire Mine is on my list of "to do's". It was the largest, is the oldest and richest gold mine in the State of California. It was an actual working mine from 1850-1956. The grounds are large and tours are offered into some of the shafts and to explore the house where the owners lived. All the comforts of home and more...even a bowling alley was afforded the owners. The only comfort the owners and townsfolk lacked was silence. Its very noisy working the mines 24/7. You can hear a working mine for miles and miles away. If you ever get the chance to see California's Gold Country, you won't regret it. Many worked and died in those mines and made history by it. My Grandfather worked the mines there, so seeing and trying to feel what a miner goes through put me into a family history mode. After a little day of riding and touring, its eat and sleep.

Saying goodbye to my brother and his family is always a bummer, but once on the road the next morning my mind was on the ride. My brother told me to take a couple of side roads on my way into Reno and enjoy the scenery instead of taking the freeway. I followed his advice and took a couple of different ways down the mountain. I'm glad I did. Nothing like advice from a local.

Hwy-20 takes you up and around the mountain through Nevada City to I-80 near Emigrant Gap, where you can continue on other routes to Lake Tahoe or Nevada. Exactly where I am going. The roadway climbs from Nevada City and descends into the Bear Valley via a series of hairpin turns, and then climbing, just north of Emigrant Gap, to its end at Yuba Pass. The Pioneer Trail, a National Recreation Trail, is part of the road called the California Trail first used in 1850. It is at this point I realize I have a little problem. I am now hearing a little noise. I stop at a pullover to check it out. Talk to a few riders...lucky girl me...another rider on a 2010 St. Glide Trike just rode up. Helps me out a bit and tells me go straight to HD...they are open today. Yep on a SUNDAY! I get on the bike and get down the hill to call the HD dealer. I only have about 30 minutes to go or so, so I don't worry. Just need to get there before they close.

Donner Pass
On my way I get to view Donner Pass and the Truckee Route of the California Trail, first used by California-bound emigrants. Its great to travel through my own State's history, but now I have a problem and can't stop to enjoy what I wanted to. I do take a little time to take a couple of pics. My Go Pro is on the fairing and I need to be safe now and just get down the hill. I arrive at the Reno, HD. One of the service guys comes out and takes a look. It has to go in. Dunno what is wrong. They are good to me though and my hotel is only a couple of blocks away. Its the nature of The Beast I say. I check in and check out for the night.

By late afternoon the next day I get the call, bike is done. Too late to head out today so I get the bike and park it and proceed to go into town to the Hot August Nights. An annual hot rod show in Reno. I forget my camera...ughghghg. I can tell you though, it was hot, it was August and it was night and the hot rods were out in full force. I could feel the next addiction coming on...except I don't know how to wrench. The show is worthy to go see and must to go back to...with camera in hand! I heard they are trying to split the show in two and put the same show in Long Beach, CA at the same time of year. Can't figure that one out... take money from one show to another? Doesn't work for me. Reno should keep it. Locals need the $$.

So the next morning I get the gear on the bike, load the helmet, gloves, ipod in, starter a go AND... I put the bike into reverse.. errrr should I say TRY to put the bike in reverse and it does not! So I get my toes on the ground to push it and press the front brake to stop the backward roll... and THERE IS NO FRONT BRAKE!! Crapola for the third time! Panic mode. I have reservations in Ely, NV...now my timing is off completely by two days. So much for me being a tourist. I still have a back brake, the HD is only a couple of blocks away... so I go and plant myself at the HD for the service department once again. In it goes. Diagnosis: I have two warped front discs and they don't have any on the shelves. They have to overnight them. Should be here sometime by 11:00 am...tomorrow. ughghghghg. Day 2 in Reno. Cancel Ely and Salt Lake and wait.

I leave it all to the Road Gods now and decide I won't be without transportation, so I go to the rental across the street and get a car. Harley is paying for this now... warranty is in effect and on the clock. On to Virginia City. It was on my list, but I wanted to ride it, but I am not missing it either.

Desert &Road in Background on way to Virginia City

The road to Virgina City is a great 2 lane ride road! It affords a rider the view and the curves we all love to ride. Up the mountain and around is a desert like view of the valley. I turn off and take some pics at the Geiger Historic Landmark then get on up the hill to Virginia City.

Virginia City Grave

Virgina City has kept its spirit as a small town gone tourist. It has its main street full of local stores, bars and cowboy clothed locals. I love it. I remember going here as a kid, and really, other than the food upgrades in restaurants, it really has not changed. One place I like to visit in a small town is the cemetery. I know that

might be morbid to some, but it actually is a place of history, and it gives a person the idea of how life was. The average death age is about 35ish, and a whole lot of infants, I am sure the weather elements and just being so far out there had a lot to do with this. I realize how damn hard it was for those who came before us really had it. I spend the afternoon there and then go back.

Waking up the next morning had me eager to find out about the bike. 11:00 comes around and I call. They haven't received all the parts yet. They received the right disc, not the left. They put the right disc on, don't ever get the left disc, but machine the left disc to work til I get off my trip in a couple of weeks. I take it. By the time I get the bike... again its late in the afternoon and I ride back to hotel for another night. I am outta there in the a.m. Ely, NV next stop.

Next Post..Nevada rides...

KT Did

Sturgis 2010 Part 1

2010-08-13T20:47:00.000-07:00

JULY 29, 2010

Today is the day I have been looking forward for almost a year. I'm riding to Sturgis, solo, for the first time. I have been planning this for months. The Plan: to ride there, take 6-7 days for the journey, spend 7 days riding the Black Hills... haul home. Yes, I said haul home. I figure a good 14 days of riding is good and if I beat the storms... I'm even better. No excuses...just comfort. Considering everyone I know is hauling there and back, I would of gone solo anyway. I want to experience it. Its been on my list since I started riding.

I've also been asked, why solo? My answer: Because I like to get up when I want to. I like to eat when I want to. I do not want listen to anyone tell me what to do, and most of all, if I have to stop and pee, I'm going too. Aside from all of that... If I wanted to change plans, I did not want to be on anyone's schedule but mine...period. I wanted my own road rules... no bull crap or drama. Don't get me wrong, I like riding with my friends, however, not this ride. I'm meeting people there and will enjoy every moment with them there. The ride is all mine.

First day's ride is to Northern California. Simple ride. My plan is to decide the route to take depending upon the weather. The weather in the past few days have been foggy on the coast... hot inland. So depending on the fog (not doing the coast in fog) and the heat (don't like it, but am prepared for it). I made a couple of routes and booked them. Mostly Best Western. Their 24 hour cancellation policy makes it easy to change if on the road and something happens. It just so happens, I needed that little perk on this trip.

Getting up early was surprisingly easy to do. I have been excited and waiting for the day, so I got up early 4:35 a.m. However, I didn't leave till almost 6:00. Last minute packing led me to unpack some things that led me to be late. Sooo........... I'm riding to frigging Sturgis! I don't care what time I leave today.... I am leaving!

Fog on the Coast was a sure thing. So here comes I-5 in all its boring glory. Traffic in the a.m. isn't so sweet going through L.A. either. The 57 had a crash on it and the I-5 was the choice of the hour. Its also the fastest. Usually a 5-6 hour drive.

After riding through traffic in Los Angeles for two hours, riding over the Grapevine was a pleasure. I passed a thumbs up from 3 trucks hauling bikes to Sturgis. It was great to see other riders and haulers making the journey to South Dakota for the motorcycle mecca rally. I knew from the beginning that riding solo didn't mean I was riding alone. I never feel alone out on the road. So when people asked me if I was scared, my reply was no. In fact, my first stop beyond the Grapevine was Starbucks. I met another rider there and we proceeded to chat while we had our coffee. He knew mutual friend Betsy Huelskamp, and when I sent her a text with a pic of me & him she thought it was great that in the scheme of the road we met. He went on his way to Washington. He was going to be in Salt Lake when I was so we were going to meet up for another coffee, however, my destination to Salt Lake had to be cut out of the plans (explanation later on...).

So anyway, I-5. I take this freeway a lot to Northern California, so I know it well. I stopped at the usual stops. It was hot, but not unbearable. I stopped at the vista point. Something I had never done before. Not very interesting, but to those people who like irrigation and aqueducts, it is. I have some interest, as one of my great grandfathers helped develop the Stockton area irrigation. I took some pics and off I went.

Vista Point I-5 California

The next few miles are full of cow poo smell. My clothes stunk when I got home. My mask was full of it. Full face helmets are at the will of the smell too. I wear my 3/4 for most of the journey then put on my half helmet. Bugs come out of nowhere and they hurt, but my half helmet is less confining in the heat and wetting my mask is cooling. Harris Ranch is burger town...also a gardener's dream.

The ride is not so exciting to most. I-5 is just a straight shot. The rolling California hills and farmlands can be boring to the eyes, but through this trip, I have come to appreciate them a little more. They are very pretty and I-5 at least gives you a look at something. When I finally get to the Altamount Pass I know within the hour I will be done with my first leg of the trip. I smile and take it all in.

I arrive in Alameda around 2:30 or so. The first leg of my trip is done... just like that it seems. It brought a little tear to my eye and just in time to notice the backrest holding my luggage on has lost a screw..now I could cry like a baby...add Oakland Harley Davidson to the itinerary...tomorrow...geeezzzzz.

The next day is full of running around. First thing to do is to get that screw. HD in Oakland is not far from my house there so it was pretty easy. They fortunately had a few and I took them all.

The back road into Alameda from Hegenberger in Oakland is a spot where years ago everyone would go to to watch the boat races. You could hear them for miles around when they ran. I pulled into the parking lot and took a few pics. Reminisced and took a little ride around town.

Alameda/Oakland Race Place

After riding around town, I knew I had to get it together to get on my next leg of the ride. So after getting the backrest screwed back in, I repacked the bike and plotted my ride to the Grass Valley and the gold country there. Next post a comin'....

Happy Sturgis Trailzzzz

KT Did

Sturgis ...Ladies Who Ride--Mimi

2010-07-21T10:32:00.000-07:00

Its been hard to post while getting plans made and making sure all is nipped and tucked for my ride to Sturgis. Those of you on Facebook see me more often. But for those in the blogging sphere I will posting here too. I am setting up a Smug Mug photo site that allows videos and pictures and an actual base for upload storage. I think the $ are worth it just to keep the pics safe.

For those of you who don't know, I am now a proud owner of the 2010 Street Glide Trike. I will be taking him... yes, I said him... I call him The Beast. I absolutely love it and am so surprised that I do love "a trike" as much as I do this one. I have all the comforts of a Street Glide and can actually NOT worry about any modifications so that I reach the ground. I can tiptoe it backwards if need be, but I don't have to, as it has a reverse. There is power to it that my Softail Deluxe just doesn't have and I can slam on the throttle and have a 6 gallon tank to keep me on the road longer... with cruise control. All the comforts you owners of a Street Glide already know and enjoy and I could only dream of it. Now I got it with The Beast. Nope, Nada, Never will I give up my 2 wheels. My Luvmedu is still being ridden and she always will be. She just now has a big brother. Little Sis Prudanz is now with a new owner.

So..... countdown to my ride to Sturgis is beginning. I am taking a few days to enjoy this great country and meeting family and friends on the way. Making it a good one so I am refreshed to deal with another matter of importance when I get back...a legal problem that I am pursuing and should start on my return... sooooo the ride is going to be a strengthening for me. Riding to Sturgis has a lot to do with just getting away and letting matters get handled by appropriate parties til I am needed. So I am letting that go for a couple of weeks. Perfect timing.

Fundraiser has bikers cruising for a cause cook, ride, corner - News - The Orange County Register

On another note, I met up with Mimi last Sunday at the Ladies Who Ride event. She rode up from San Diego. We really got some time to finally sit and talk to each other. She also traded in her Cleopatra (Nightster) for Endora (a brand new bright shiney red Fat Bob). I really enjoyed our day visit and expect many more. She's adorable. Rhonda at Cooks Corners and Tom (Disco) at Anaheim Fullerton Harley Davidson really did a great job on this event. I know others were involved heavily in this, however, I don't know exactly who... but they deserve helmets off to them too! It gets larger each year and the fundraiser is of great importance to those who have been hit with breast cancer. So a big thank you for a great day on all levels.

Posts and Pics to Come

Happy Trailzzzzzz
KT Did

WOMEN IN UNIFORM

2010-05-31T18:33:00.000-07:00

Women in Uniform. A nice link to take a look at this Memorial Day!

KT Did

MEMORIAL WEEKEND--Make it a Safe One Please Everyone!

2010-05-27T15:32:00.000-07:00

Thanking my Veterans is the most important part of this weekend and, quite frankly, each day of my life. As I have always said, I ride free in America, in particular as a woman, because someone fought for my freedom to do so. I can vote, ride and speak with honesty because I live in America! Nothing is greater than this vast grand land. No one can tell me different. So I thank, with all my heart, everyone who has died, fought and has given their time in service, and to those in service of this country, for my United States of America!

With that being said, having a safe Memorial Weekend on your motorcycle is the number one wish I wish for all my fellow riders out there. For those of you reading this that are not riders on 2 wheels or even 3 wheels please read the following excerpt from The Washington Post by Lon Anderson answering a question to Alexandria about the Rolling Thunder Ride for Freedom:

"Lon Anderson: Hello Alexandria--Rolling Thunder will have their Ride for Freedom leaving the Pentagon Parking lot at noon and go over the Memorial Bridge to the Vietnam Memorial for a program that begins at 1 and will likely go for another 2 hours or so, so there will again be plenty of action on the roads with all of the participating bikers in the 3-4 pm time frame. You may want to consider taking the Metro Foggy Bottom and trying a cab, or if you are up for it, having a good walk.

By the way, AAA Mid-Atlantic offers the following tips for drivers to help keep motorcyclists safe on our roadways:

Remember the motorcycle is a vehicle with all of the rights and privileges of any other motor vehicle on the roadway. Always allow a motorcyclist the full lane width-never try to share a lane;

Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.

Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic;

Don't be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle - motorcycle signals are often not self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed;

Remember that road conditions which are minor annoyances to passenger vehicles pose major hazards to motorcyclists;

Allow more following distance, three or four seconds, when following a motorcycle, so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. And don't tailgate. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.

If you follow those tips, both you and the cyclists should be safe."

This are great tips for everyone to follow! Thank You Lon Anderson via the Washington Post for pointing them out!

Here in Orange County, California the roads will be beefed up with Police to monitor traffic in spots of danger. So everyone going to the Memorial Ride and up to Cooks Corners for the annual Flag ceremony, please wear your DOTs and ride safely.

Blessings for a Safe & Great Holiday Weekend! Ride it!

Happy Trailzzz
KT Did

Blog Is Back... Posts Are Gone....

2010-05-27T15:14:00.000-07:00

Well.... here we are. One blank blog. I got it back, but without any posts. Wuss up? Still working on bringing back the life of this blog. However, I am working on sooooo many other things right now that this will hopefully be cleared up in a couple of weeks when I can concentrate more on it. Unfortunately, I just can't deal with it right now. Five years of posting... oh well...not much I can do about it til I find out what really happened. In the meantime, life goes on and the posts will too when I can sit and concentrate.

On another quick note, I have finished mapping and reserving two routes for the ride to the Black Hills this year. One is north and one is south. Luckily, I will pick and choose the route according to the weather. The northern route is one I am leaning towards. It includes Yellowstone Park, a place that I very much desire to visit. Its final... I am reserved and on a plan! Don't know if anyone else is going, but this old bag is.

At least there is a happy news item here along with the disappearance news too.

Til next post.

KT Did