Bald Overlook -picture from a customer of Jafrum

I’m wearing my Pistol Pete premium leather jacket, 5-pocket leather pants and Milwaukee classic harness leather boots from Jafrum in the photo of me standing by the Lone Bald Overlook sign note: I didn’t even read the writing on the sign when the picture was taken…noticed later while reviewing the pictures of the day how ironic this particular photo was Both photos taken on the Blue Ridge Parkway south of Asheville, NC on April 22, 2009. Temperature was sunny and in the low 30’s! I was toasty warm and very comfortable. (I’m 6’4” and 250 lbs) Bike is a 2003 Honda Valkyrie pulling an Escapade trailer. (That’s ice on the rocks! Bike picture was taken facing across the road from the Lone Bald Overlook picture) Jim R , Florida

Discount on Garmin GPS Navigators for AMA Members

The AMA and Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. and the global leader in satellite navigation, are pleased to announce a new benefit that allows AMA members to purchase Garmin products at discounted pricing.

“The line between being lost or found is as thin as the edge of your map,” said AMA Director of Business Development Jim Moore. “With a Garmin GPS navigator, however, you never have to worry about riding off the edge, and now members of the AMA can enjoy this flexibility, freedom and peace of mind for less.”

The AMA member benefit, which is available starting Nov. 19, covers both Garmin navigation units and software. Garmin’s aviation product line is excluded.

“Garmin makes some of the world’s finest GPS navigators, and the company’s zumo line is tailor-made for motorcyclists with a number of features designed with our needs in mind,” Moore said. “With these products naturally becoming increasingly popular with riders, it only makes sense for the AMA to partner with this great company to bring even more benefits to our members.”

Added Mike Sheehan, Automotive and OEM Marketing Manager from Garmin: “In recent years, Garmin has made a concerted effort to expand into new areas, and thanks to their purpose-built design, unique features and top-quality build, our GPS navigator products are experiencing significant growth in the motorcycling marketplace. This exclusive membership benefit deal gives us another way to get our units into the hands of even larger numbers of dedicated motorcyclists — those of the AMA.”

AMA members can use the discount up to twice in a calendar year. To take advantage of the offer, beginning on Nov. 19 AMA members can visit a landing page on the Garmin web site, at www.garmin.com/ama.

The zumo navigators should be particularly popular with AMA members. Designed specifically for motorcyclists, they come in a rugged and ready-to-ride case with glove-friendly, left-handed controls, preloaded street maps and a sunlight-readable screen. The zumo navigators are shock resistant, fuel resistant, waterproof and vibration tested. An SD card expansion slot makes it easy to share maps or upload them to online mapping services, such as Garmin Connect at http://connect.garmin.com/zumo/.

The top-of-the-line zumo 550 is Bluetooth ready and can connect to a Bluetooth-enabled headset to deliver navigation voice prompts wirelessly. The 550 also doubles as an XM satellite receiver and features text-to-speech technology for turn-by-turn directions with spoken street names.

The Garmin product discount, which also covers the company’s extensive collection of maps, is just the latest in a long list of AMA member benefits and savings. For more on the benefits of AMA membership, see www.AmericanMotorcyclist.com and click on Member Services.

The “Hello” Wave

Amongst motorcyclists, there is an unwritten code. Unfortunately, because it’s unwritten, I am not privy to its contents. But, I do know about the “hello wave.” While you’re riding, if you cross paths with another cyclist, you extend your left (clutch) hand down with fingers lightly splayed. You don’t need to make eye contact or nod (unless your clutch hand is busy clutching) you simply let the hand speak for you. The wave is a way of saying “I see and acknowledge you. I am amongst the throngs of great motorcyclists which have come before me, and acknowledge you as a member of the pack as well.”

The thing about the wave is that after two years of riding a motorcycle every chance I get, I still get thrilled when one of my waves is returned. The thrill, I think, comes from being just another person in black leather…the person on the other bike doesn’t care if I’m black, white or _______ (include your ethnicity here); if I’m male or female; if I’m gay or straight (or somewhere in between.). We are all simply acknowledging that we are a breed apart.

Now, if you know dogs, you know that sometimes, being a breed apart is not a good thing. In fact, we tend to throw that word “breed” around as if it is one of the lesser words in the language, but let’s think on it for a moment. If a dog is a pure breed, it tends to be worth more than one that does not have a pedigree. Inbreeding and overbreeding usually lead to health problems. A mixed breed, while loyal and companionable, is usually seen as worthless.

In his story “The Open Boat,” Stephen Crane talks of a “subtle brotherhood” that develops among four men who are stranded in a small boat, fifty feet from shore, with no hopes of getting there because of rocks and terrible undercurrents. There are days when, metaphorically speaking, the rocks and undercurrents threaten to keep me from shore as well. Yet, I am aware of the subtle brotherhood that comes with that little hello wave. I am disappointed when I give the wave, and don’t get a return. I am ecstatic when the wave is initiated from the other cyclist.

In these times when we receive the bulk of our validation from television or video games, it is great to actually receive acknowledgement from another human being, even if they don’t know who I am. I am simply a person on a bike, sharing a common interest. And that rates a hello wave.

An article from Susan

Harley-Davidson Fantasy “Race to the Ralley” from Activision for Playstation 2

It had to happen sooner or later: Harley-Davidson has always been the object of desire for many who for whatever reason didn’t take the plunge and buy one. Now the fantasy can be even more realistic with a help of a little technology. The story carried by Motorcyclebikes.org follows:

Activision gives gamers the chance to stop dreaming and start riding in Harley-Davidson: Race to the Rally available now for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system. Charge out on the highways and byways across America on fully upgradeable classic and late-model Harley-Davidson motorcycles while facing outrageous road challenges.

“Harley-Davidson: Race to the Rally” takes gamers from coast to coast across America exploring classic rides centric to “Harley-Davidson” and the biker lifestyle such as Big Sur, historic Route 66, and the Badlands. Each of the 20 authentic Harley-Davidson motorcycles including the Dyna, Softail, Touring, and Sportster are fully customizable and upgradeable with licensed parts and accessories, so there are thousands of possibilities on which to perform the gravity-defying jumps, and high-speed turbo boosts in this game. Plus, it features a soundtrack that captures the attitude of “Harley-Davidson” with tracks by George Thorogood, Heart, Poison, Great White and more.

Anyone who enjoys games and motorcycles will be in seventh heaven with this Playstation 2Race to the Rally. The rendering of the Harley-Davidson motorcycles is so realistic, after playing this game for a while the urge to own and ride a motorcycle may be too difficult to resist.

Give Us Your Top Ten Reasons: What Makes Motorcycles Sexy?

Most riders I know have a confidence that’s almost contagious: an enthusiasm for life that is found in women and men in every walk of life. I have heard it more than once while riding that a lot of people think motorcycles are sexy. If you agree, the staff of Jafrum would like to hear your top ten reasons why. Let us hear your story!

Everyone who has made the decision to purchase a motorcycle has a story of the journey there and how it has continued. The first time I saw a motorcycle I was transfixed: as an artist, the design and engineering just blew me away. From that moment I knew I had to learn how to ride and control this beautiful and powerful machine. It was the idea of harnessing all of the power within that fantastic mechanical work of art that is top of my list of what makes motorcycles sexy.

Then about 6 months later, I starting dating a guy who owned a motorcycle and riding as a passenger only made me more excited about taking the wheel. Even at the slowest speed the feeling was exhilarating and I never felt more alive. I took the plunge and bought a used Harley-Davidson Sportster and the adventure began.

But I felt like a person with two left feet when it came to the motorcycle safety course. Anyone who tells you “it’s a piece of cake” should have been with me during my experience. Every time I take an instruction course to build up my skills, I realize that there is real science at work riding a motorcycle well. That’s really makes it, well–sexy. What’s your story?

Harley-Davidson Celebrates -100 Years Outfitting Police, Fire and Rescue Departments

If you love Harley-Davidson motorcycles, then you will not be surprised to know that this is the motorcycle of choice for thonds of motorcycle police, fire and rescue squad officers. The company has specialized training courses on the mechanics and performance techniques that are known around the world, in addition to supplying instructors for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation: mandatory training for every motorcyclist.

The Harley-Davidson law enforcement training competition will be held in Milwaukee WI on August 28-29, celebrating 100 years of law enforcement motorcycles during Harley-Davidson’s 105th Anniversary celebration. The company recently donated three motorcycles to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund to be auctioned over the next three years to assist with the physical building of the National Law Enforcement Museum shown on the website.

Throughout the history of the relationship between law enforcement and Harley-Davidson, it’s dedication to manufacturing the highest quality performers has become a legend in the Electra Glide model, which has become the standard in most of the police units across the country. See what it takes to be the best with these great riders in motorcycle action.

Be a Hero and a Part of Motorcycle Racing History at Indianapolis Speedway

On Saturday, September 13th, 250 motorcyclists will have the honor of participating in the “Lap of Champions” at the totally new road racing course at the Indianapolis Speedway. The entire motorcycling world will be watching this event which is the prelude to the 2008 MotoGP World Championship round that will take place on September 14th.

The Red Bull Indianapolis GP is destined to be an event filled with memorable pageantry and excitement. This will be the first time that the MotoGP will be held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the first motorcycle race at this famous racing facility in 99 years.

Photo courtesy of Red Bull Indianapolis GP

With the world’s greatest motorcycle riders reaching speeds of 200 mph, this is one event that defines the phrase “the need for speed.”

Speedy action is needed to support the research to find the cause and cure for brain tumors in children. And the proceeds from “Lap of Champions” fundraiser will  help fill this great need as well.

Donations start at $100 for a single ride pass and $425 donations included MotoGP passes for two and motorcycle parking. Participants in the Lap of Champions will also be eligible for prizes after the ride, but you must be present to win at the drawing. Prizes include:

• AGV GP Tech helmet
• AGV Sport leathers
• AGV Sport boots and gloves
• Set of Dunlop tires

This event will benefit the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. and the highest level fundraisers will receive a Aerostich Roadcrafter or Darien riding suit of their choice. Here’s your chance to be a real hero to thousands of children that the foundation assists through research and support.

Registration is limited to 250 motorcycles so follow this link to register.

BMW Motorcycles Salutes the Military with Special Discounts

Photo Courtesy of BMW Motorrad

When it comes to great motorcycles for racing and touring, BMW is a name that has gained a significant amount of respect for high performance and quality engineering. In world class events in different countries, motorcyclists are enjoying the ease of handling and control on BMW bikes.

Now these bikes are also making news for a different reason–in a promotion  to say “thanks” to the women and men in uniform. Let’s tip the hat to BMW Motorrad USA for the special purchase program that they are offering all active members of the U.S. armed forces from now until December 31st.

The promotion is geared to make it a little easier for military personnel to get in the saddle of their favorite BMW motorcycle for personal use. A great way to travel around town or across country, these bikes were made for bikers who live to ride.

Activated reservists, members of the U.S. Marines, Navy, Army, Air Force and Coast Guard either on active duty or those who have recently completed a tour of active duty are eligible. For those who are retired service members or who have recently been discharged a Department of Defense Form 214 may be required.

Discounts vary according to the model series chosen; $250 off the F and G series, $400 off the R series and $500 off the K series (pictured on the right).

You can see the entire lineup of models at BMW Motorrad website, whether you prefer a sport, racing or touring bike the technical specs is sure to impress you.

Top Ten Motorcycle Road Trip Essentials-Part Two

Photo courtesy of Rockymtnmoto.com

To make your motorcycle road trip rewarding, it’s essential to plan ahead, from the route you will travel to ensuring you have the gear you need to handle any situation.

To be prepared for whatever may happen on the road, here are the final 5 essentials to complete our top ten list of must have items you should pack:

1. Roadmap: You should carry a laminated, foldable roadmap. A travel compass is also a great tool to help you get your bearings. A solid GPS system with bike mount is a good investment or a cell phone broad band Internet access to online GPS can work.
2. Security: A wheel lock, heavy chain with a lock. Make sure that the lock is long enough so it can secure both wheels to make it difficult to be rolled away. You may also want to disable your bike for an added level of protection.
3. Spare key: It’s a smart idea to carry a spare ignition key because, hey ya never know. Stow it in a ziplock plastic bag and secure it in a safe place on your bike or in your gear.
4. Motorcycle mechanics list: Check your bike thoroughly before you take off down the road and make a list of bike repair shops along your journey. Keep it in a plastic protector with your important documents.
5. Personal necessities: Power snacks like nuts and dried fruits give you long lasting energy. Decaf 5-hour Energy has B-vitamins and amino acids plus choline to enhance mental clarity.And don’t forget the toiletries; sanitary wipes, tooth brush, toothpaste and deodorant.

Take the Roadtrip to the Burning Man Festival

Photo Courtesy of Wild Wind Motorcycle Tours

Summer is winding down but there is still time to celebrate the uniqueness of the season and the joy of riding your motorcycle on the open road.

If you are looking for a special road trip you might enjoy joining the crew from Wild Wind Motorcycle Tours on a ride to the Burning Man Festival in Black Rock Desert, Nevada will be held this year from August 25 to September 1.

The 2008 art theme is “The American Dream” and this event has been called a once-in-a-lifetime, not-to-be missed experience in a location is perfect for refining your motorcycle riding skills.

Since 1986, the Burning Man Festival has been centered on the power of art.

A motorcycle is a work of art in motion: riding through the magnificent scenery of the Black Rock Desert can be truly awe-inspiring. But come prepared, the 107 degree temperature of the desert can be ruthless.

Wild Wind Motorcycle Tours is based in Arizona and offers a variety of tours to mystical and magical places in the southwest. If you want to ride the legendary Route 66 or the Grand Canyon, these are the bikers to call.

To get a taste of how the Wild, Wild West earned its name, participate in the Arizona Good Guys and Gunslingers tour to “the town to tough to die,” Tombstone, Arizona.

For those bikers who want in on the Wild Wind Motorcycle Tours fun to Burning Man Festival, don’t delay because space is limited.