Letter of the Month
The editorials that Tuttle and Salvadori penned for July 2020 hit so close to home that they threw a pen into this old rider’s hands. Mark began by telling of his toolkits and requirements over the years. My first homemade toolkits from the 1980s were for a 1979 Sportster and a ’77 Electra Glide. The kits weighed in at about 10 pounds each. The Sportster toolkit actually removed, rebuilt and replaced the transmission one year on a ride to Niagara Falls, New York, from North Carolina. So, I can tell you a thing or two about toolkits. Today’s kit for my BMW GT takes up the same space yet contains a small air compressor, tire repair kit and tools I will never use.

Clement made me smile when he spoke of the disparaging looks that he received from the innkeeper in Skopje, North Macedonia. I know that look! I once had to park below a mom-and-pop motel in Pennsylvania, hiding the bike, in 1991 while on yet another trip to New York. This trip was on the old Electra Glide. I remember removing my jacket and putting on a shirt over my black tee as I went in to inquire about overnight lodgings.

Fast-forward 29 years and you will find me staying at four-star motels while parking my BMW K 1200 GT right there under the office awning. I get the best rates with my AARP discount.

I love reading the editorials each month! They take me back home and back to the bikes that brought me here. I miss those bikes and those rides but I would not want to ride those miles again…unless of course you asked me to, LOL. Keep it between the lines and the pages my friends. I will keep reading!

Tony Phillips
Carolina Beach, North Carolina

Tony, we’re overjoyed that the editorials in Rider take you back to spending time on two wheels, whether it’s roadside maintenance or memories of great rides in the past and the bikes you did them on. Motorcycling is often seen as an individual sport or activity, but what I find interesting is that off-hand riding tales can resonate so deeply with fellow riders. Your response struck a chord with us here at Rider, and our friends at Michelin. As our Letter of the Month winner, you’ll be receiving a Michelin branded beverage bottle and Nelson-Rigg tank bag, to help keep you on the road and collecting those stories for many years to come. – NdS

Familiar Turns
I enjoyed June’s Western New England ride (“Ride Along The Riverside”) by Scott A. Williams. Having lived there in my younger days I can confirm how beautiful an area it is and I sometimes regret not being able to take a ride on those roads. How surprised I was to see last month’s ride review in Central Pennsylvania (“The Pennsylvania Wilds”) where I’ve lived for the past 30 years. I can once again confirm that the rides in this area are worth every mile you can put on your odometer. I rarely ride simply to get to a destination, and it’s easy to take for granted the area you live in. Most often I ride just to spend a few hours on the backroads and enjoy the scenery and fresh air such an area affords. Alas, next month I’ll read the ride review done in an area I’ll likely never get to experience and wonder what it would be like, but I will always enjoy the rides I experience in Central Pennsylvania. Keep up the good work.

Jeremy Santos
Huntingdon, Pennsylvania

The Bright Side
Excellent editorial (One-Track Mind, August 2020). You expressed what a lot of people are probably feeling. In these difficult times I do believe that hope is of critical importance. Like most people, the last few months have been some of the most emotional of my life. I vacillate between bouts of sadness over what this pandemic has taken away from us, to anger that the virus even exists, to hopelessness that things will ever get back to normal. But motorcycles have been my steady, emotional “rock” to keep me grounded.

I’ve finally confronted my fear of carburetors and successfully cleaned not just one, but five of them (four motorcycles and one lawnmower!). I’m using all the free time to ride our dirt bikes with my son more than we ever have. I’ve also taken a few long day rides with my daughter, and have ordered and am reading all the motorcycle related books I’ve said I would read “someday.” I’ve dived head first into all things motorcycle and it has created a giant distraction from the current situation we’re all trying to live through.

It is easy to forget about the pandemic for a short time while riding, and it feels great. It somehow does instill new hope that yes, eventually things will get back to normal.

Trevor Denis
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Moving Pictures
I am enjoying the online version of your magazine, especially the videos you include. It’s fun to hear Mark speak, though his voice is a lot deeper than I imagined. Please have Clem do some videos; I would love to hear my favorite Rider columnist speak. I’m looking forward to getting back to normal and holding a real Rider magazine in my hands.

Jim Conner
Sigourney, Iowa

Jim, you can hear Clem not only speak but thoroughly regale our regular podcast audience with tales from his motorcycling life and the road in Episode #3 of the Rider Magazine Insider podcast, now available on our website ridermagazine.com and SoundCloud, Stitcher and iTunes. – EIC

In for the Long Haul
I have been a subscriber to Rider since I started riding in 1990. Throughout the years that have flown by every Rider issue seems to get better than the last. I feel like you and the folks at Rider have been my companions along for this great ride. In every issue there seems to be an article or two where I say, “Yes! They get it.” It’s been a great ride and I’m hoping there are many more miles of smiles ahead. Over the years I was able to attend the Rider Rallies and even got to mingle with you, Clem and Alan Paulsen at the Honda Hoot and Americade. You and your great publication continue to hit all the right buttons. I recently came across this T-shirt and it made me smile and miss those great events. Heck I even got a photo with Mr. Salvadori sans his beret (Honda Hoot 2007!) Keep on doing what you do and I will continue to be along for the journey!

Ed Apelian
Charlotte, North Carolina

H.U.A.D
I’ve been riding 40 years up and down the highway, and I’ve seen a lot of junk strewn about the road. A 6-foot ladder smashed and run over by multiple vehicles was one of the most shocking!

I was driving home from up north, Memorial Day weekend, on I-69 east of Lansing, Michigan, with my wife and Great Dane in the minivan (dorky yes, but practical). We were flying along at 75 mph, in front of the wolf pack in the right lane, when we came upon an RV lumbering along at 56 mph. I couldn’t get over, so I was stuck with no view ahead of the huge RV, and after braking, was just a shade too close.

I broke a cardinal rule and knew it.

Two seconds later, the RV ran over a roughly 3-foot piece of shredded truck tire. They call those “gators.” It flew up and hit my vehicle in the air dam under the bumper. It ripped that half off and bounced off the Stow-n-Go sub floor in the middle and back of the van. Three big bangs — yikes!

I pulled off at the next exit with a sinking feeling. The damage was minimal, but what if I had been on my motorcycle? Things happen so fast at speed and that moment of H.U.A.D. (Head Up A_s Disease) could be life changing. That piece of tire probably weighed anywhere from 10 to 20 pounds.

Don’t tailgate, even for a second, for a dozen different reasons.

Kevin H. Kent
New Baltimore, Michigan

Things do happen quickly when you’re out on the road and letters like this always serve as a perfect reminder. As riders, we need to keep our wits about us and try to make sure that we mitigate the risks as much as we can. Many of those risks are out of our control, so it’s best to always try to put yourself in a position where you have a chance of dealing with them. – NdS 

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Letter of the Month
I’m seriously considering the new Yamaha MT-03 for my first bike (“Little Big Fun,” May 2020). I don’t like fairings, so the naked style is more in line with what I like aesthetically. All of the standard features on this bike (ABS, LED lights, etc.) cost extra on all of the other bikes I’ve researched. I’m about 5-feet, 10-inches tall and when I sat on this bike and an R3 the MT-03 definitely felt bigger to me; the seat was more comfortable as well. All the thought and engineering (like making the brakes not as touchy) that went into this bike for first-time riders is appealing to me. I know I’m just starting out and want to enjoy it while I’m learning and not be stressed about having a bike that’s too much for me. I want to ride around town and get better on a bike built for newbies, so I can love riding as much as the experienced riders down the road. All the reviews and research I’ve done make it sound like this will be a great fit. 
Brook, via ridermagazine.com

Brook, if only I had your wisdom and foresight when I first became a licensed rider, I suspect my learning curve wouldn’t have been so steep. Choosing a bike like the Yamaha MT-03 is incredibly wise for a multitude of reasons. Between the approachable weight, manageable physical size, and welcoming performance, the MT-03 and bikes in the lightweight class are all perfect platforms to begin building the skills needed to become an experienced rider, down the proverbial road. When you do pick up your new bike, be sure to let us know! As our Letter of the Month winner, our friends at Michelin would like to send you a Michelin branded beverage bottle and Nelson-Rigg tank bag! –NdS

The Z Finally Comes Home
I guess you could say that I’m suffering from the “isolation blues.” I’ve been spending a lot of time reading my Rider magazines and watching videos of motorcycles online. Anyway, all that did was to make me want a new Kawasaki Z900RS, which I ended up buying a couple weeks ago. There was a 2020 available but I chose to get a 2019 since it was offered in the candy-tone orange and brown like the original Z1 back in 1973. I liked your review on the 2018 model when it first came out and also liked the Rider Comparo with the 2020 Z900RS, Suzuki Katana and Honda CB1000R (“Return of the UJMs,” March 2020). However, I couldn’t help but notice the difference between the 2018 and the 2020 Z900RS on your dyno charts. I noticed that the 2020 model made about five horsepower and five lb-ft of torque more, at 200 rpm lower. Did Kawasaki make any changes to the engine since 2018? Was a different dyno used? Or is this just a case of one bike being a little better or different than the other? 

I started riding in 1974 (a very good year) and admired the Z1 but didn’t have enough experience or money and had to settle for a 1975 Kawasaki S1 (250 triple 2-stroke) for my first new bike, which I don’t regret. I’m very glad that there are more retro models because, at 68 years old, I can’t get used to some of these strange-looking models coming out nowadays. I hope I can keep riding for many more years and of course I hope I can always have a new copy of Rider on my nightstand. Thanks for all the great magazines over the years!
Glenn Dupre, Houma, Louisiana 

Glenn, although that difference in power output could be the result of some minor undocumented changes Kawasaki made for emissions or other reasons, it’s more than likely just slight manufacturing and break-in differences between the two bikes combined with environmental differences on the dyno days not accounted for by correction factors. Other variables such as chain tension, rear tire type and tire pressure can also play a role. –EIC 

Rider Mag Hits the Airwaves
Just wanted to say a big “thank you!” for the new podcast. It’s great to hear the personalities behind the written words. Keep up the good work!
Alan McCain, via email

Rider’s podcasts are available on SoundCloud, Stitcher and iTunes. Check ‘em out! –EIC 

In the Eye of the Beholder
Some bikes’ functionality looks great on paper but in person they just don’t work. Other bikes have an aesthetic beauty only appreciated in person. My BMW R 1200 CLC was a good example and even then it got down to personal taste. I will have to eyeball the new 2021 BMW R 18 before casting judgment (Kickstarts, June 2020). I do like the lines and have to agree with others that the muffler could be considered either Art Deco or Art Millennial. Tubeless tires are a must, spokes or not, although the spokes speak to the rendering BMW is attempting to express. Pin stripes left off the base model though, come on BMW, that is just too cheeky! You can do better than that for the base price. Overall, I would give it a thumbs-up but I’d need to look at the beast in person for a final opinion.
Phillip Upham
via ridermagazine.com

Learning Experiences
The Harley-Davidson/Aermacchi SXT-125 (Retrospective, April 2020) was the first motorcycle I owned as a new rider, and I was completely unprepared for the problems this bike would give me. At first glance it was a very handsome bike in great condition, hardly used. I felt lucky to find this gem, and in fact it seemed too good to be true. As I was riding it home I couldn’t have known that would be the first and last time I ever rode it. The oil injector never worked right and the bike smoked horribly. Eventually the electrics burned themselves out and I spent more money trying to fix it and get it working than it was worth. I eventually sold the bike for next to nothing to someone much more resourceful, both mechanically and financially, who had an interest in the bike for its unique place in motorcycling history.
Alicean, via ridermagazine.com

Two-Smokin’
My senior year of high school I purchased the Harley/Aermacchi in a 175cc configuration as an upgrade from my first bike, a Honda CT50. This was in Germany, as my Dad was stationed there in the Army. I don’t know if there was a U.S. 175cc version. It was quite fun and, as someone else mentioned, the Germans didn’t know what to make of this “motocross” looking bike on the street. Interestingly, the tank and fenders were steel. It was so much fun zipping around Europe and I still love the “ring-a-ding-ding” of a 2-stroke.
David Bradley
via ridermagazine.com

Reigniting the Flame
I recently bought a yellow V-Strom 1050XT (“Evolution of Adventure,” April 2020 and “Chasing Giants,” page 44 this issue). I’m a massive fan of the old TL1000R sportbike and the moment I test rode the Strom, the love for the TL came flooding back. I’ve had BMW GSAs in the past but would never go back to one now. This thing is just so much fun and, since I spend 99% of my time on roads (as Suzuki knew most ADV riders do—gravel roads are not “off-road”), this beauty fits the bill. Handling is so sweet and the way it develops power generates a face-cracking smile. The old V-Strom was good but a bit bland to look at, while this one just fires me up (beauty in the eye of the beholder)!
Greg, via ridermagazine.com 

Dreaming of Comparisons
Great review on the 2020 KTM 390 Adventure (“Adventurous Aspirations,” June 2020). Looks like a suitably quirky and capable dual-purpose bike ideal for exploring the back lanes. Question is, how will it stack up against the mighty Royal Enfield Himalayan? The Himalayan is way down on power and way up on weight, but I think its character and torque might swing it for me.
Ian Hadcocks
via ridermagazine.com

The Times They Are a-Changin’
Eric Buell is an American hero, alongside the likes of Glen Curtiss and Jimmy Doolittle (Retrospective, March 2020). Harley-Davidson also deserves our praise for its courage, stepping out of its comfort zone and venturing into new markets like electric and ADV bikes. Will they succeed? Who knows? But I think that had the Buell line met H-D’s hopes and expectations, the LiveWire would have the Buell name slapped across the tank!
Phil “General T” Nelson

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Letter of the Month
The spread of the novel coronavirus and our subsequent sheltering at home has produced a wealth of observations about how all of this happened and what should be done to avoid the problem in the future. There has also been guidance from many different quarters about how we might best manage our growing fears and losses; escaping on our bikes is a ready solution that many of us immediately seize upon. This led me to wonder what exactly it is about riding that soothes us.

On April 12th, 2020, the Los Angeles Times had an article on strategies for coping with the social side effects of COVID-19. Knitting was one strategy that a British medical journal showed had proven effective in reducing stress and promoting relaxation—its repetitive nature is thought to be key to its effectiveness. A psychologist, Mihaly Cisikszentmihalyi, was cited in the article saying that knitting and other crafts can “…create a ‘flow’ state, a perfect balance between skill and challenge.” Extrapolating from this observation, perhaps motorcyclists enter a “flow state” while riding. Think back to your last ride through a stretch of perfectly paved twists and turns and how you entered a zone of quiet confidence, competently applying your riding skills in the face of the road’s challenges. Our instinct is to ride in these times, but perhaps we now have a scientific explanation for why it such a useful antidote.

Todd Collart, Ventura, California

Hi Todd, we think you’re onto something here. We bet most if not all of our readers would agree, entering that “flow state” is one of the most cathartic aspects of motorcycling. As a thank you for sharing your thoughts, we’d like to send you a Diablo jacket from Motonation. Congratulations! 

Trying Times
Thank you for the digital versions of Rider. We can only imagine the difficulties you’ve been working under to produce these issues under the current circumstances. As usual, they look sensational and will provide many hours of remarkably good reading. You are in our thoughts. We extend all best wishes and good luck for your continued safety and well being, and a return to normalcy as soon as possible. Take care and be safe. 

Marshall Swanson, Columbia, South Carolina

Hardcopies
I am a paper-in-hand kind of guy. With that said, I heartily thank those at Rider who made the decision to issue electronic editions, especially with the ability to download. Having recently taken a job in Italy, I eagerly await my wife mailing my print edition to me. But restrictions on travel over here are much greater than anywhere in the States and the delivery of mail and packages has also been impacted. Being able to read the issues online has made my isolation more bearable. 

Richard Wells, via email

Friends, periodically
I’ve been a subscriber of Rider since February 1993, and have every issue from that month through March 2020. By my calculation that’s a library of 325 issues. I’ve come to think of Mark Tuttle, Clement Salvadori, Eric Trow, Greg Drevenstedt, Jenny Smith and all the additional contributors as a group of friends I see once a month and always have available for reference. Now with the advent of COVID-19, the issues are only available online. It’s fully understandable with the restrictions, social distancing and business closures in place.

Unfortunately, after comparing the two modes, the digital presentation doesn’t come close to the printed magazine. Having a magazine that one can hold in one’s hands, flip the pages, physically compare one issue to another and catalog for future reference is just not the same as a digital copy. Here’s hoping you return to a printed version as soon as possible. 

Marc Frazier, Hampstead, Maryland

Stay at Home Stuck at Home Orders
I appreciate that Rider magazine is continuing to publish in this time of “stay at home” orders. I understand the need for digital publication, but have every hope that print publication will return when that again becomes possible. Online just is not the same as sitting down in an E-Z chair and enjoying a magazine.

Ralph Noble, Poulsbo, Washington

Oh, Fudge!
Your article on tire repair brought fond (not really) memories (Tips, Tricks & Answers, April 2020). I had punctures in six rear tires in two years. It got so bad that Michelin gave me a free tire out of pity. My luck may be turning again as I just got another puncture last week. On the bright side (sort of), I got really good at repairing them. I found the plugs work really well for a very clean, small hole such as a nail or a screw you can back out. The worms also work for small holes, but they’re more versatile, useful for any hole that is unclean or larger than a nail. As you noted, glue helps a lot with the worms and red ones are the best. Just like Ralphie is a connoisseur of soap, I have become a connoisseur of tire repair kits.

Jeff Snook, Charlottesville, Virginia

Great River Road
I was wondering when someone would finally write up this wonderful chunk of asphalt and scenery known as the Great River Road (Favorite Ride, May 2020). Phil Holbo did a great job describing this gem hidden away in Minnesota. We have been to Lake Itasca three times on our late spring trips to Minnesota from Florida and it is still mind boggling to consider what a small beginning the mighty Mississippi River starts from. One word of caution, though. Watch for wildlife, as we had a deer run between our bikes last year as we were leaving the park.

The section just south of where the author stopped that runs down through Wisconsin is excellent as well. I never tire of riding along those river bluffs. Thanks for the great article and the great magazine!

Rick Braun, Panama City, Florida

Fast Memories
I want to thank you for the Retrospective article on the late ’70s Yamaha XS Eleven (May 2020). Even in those days I read Rider magazine, including the bike reviews. The XS Eleven was my trade-up bike from the Yamaha 750 triple. Got the XS Eleven in March of 1978. As I remember, at the time it was supposedly the fastest production bike. I also believe that later that summer it was detuned to comply with California standards. My then-husband, a roommate and I each bought one on the same day from a local dealer. He graciously gave each of us a helmet! I think the dealer was shocked that a woman had brought these guys in to buy that specific model. I loved that bike! It did everything I needed, and as a 20-something, what did I know about handling and all that stuff? I just knew that it was the “fastest” production bike. At lights I knew that I could smoke anyone who wanted to try to take me off the line. Never had to do it, but was smug in the knowledge that I could! Thanks for a trip down memory lane.

Elsie Smith, York, Pennsylvania

Proper UJM
Yaaaaaaay! I love these bikes (“Return of the UJMs,” May 2020). Canyon carver, commuter, camping bike, two-up tourer! But wait…. No windscreen or fairing? No backrest or luggage rack? No option for hard bags, or even soft saddlebags? The true UJM was a bike that could carve canyons, then mount up luggage and take a passenger for the weekend, or just grab your camping gear and hit the road. Did any of these manufacturers think of customizing these bikes? Or work with an aftermarket supplier to develop luggage or wind protection options? If these companies really want to sell these wonderful motorcycles, they need to make available all the goodies that make them really fun to ride and functional.

Tony Clements, Campbell, California

Size Matters (Not)
Thank you for including articles and reviews of average size bikes. Whenever I see an article of someone touring on a V-Strom 650 or another bike that does not weigh 800 pounds, I go straight to those stories first. People should remember that you do not need a Gold Wing, large BMW, Harley or other big, heavy bike to go on a trip. I rode from Nova Scotia through Montreal and Toronto, into Detroit, then home again in 1975 on a Suzuki GT380 triple. Two years later I took my GT550 to Speed Week in Daytona—I loved that bike. It had a Vetter fairing and fiberglass bags. It took my ex and I there and then we went down to Key West for a few days. Largest bike I ever owned was a ’76 Suzuki GS750B. Took it everywhere from Sturgis to LA and Baja. Still have it, but the crank is going bad so I will be looking for a smaller replacement. Just wanted to say from a rider with more than 50 years on the road, you do not need a huge bike to travel the world. It’s more important that you enjoy the trip and some of the best times I have had were the stops along the way.

Brent Murray, Westampton, New Jersey

Misconceptions
I enjoyed your Misconceptions editorial (One-Track Mind, March 2020). Been riding for 43 years. Started out on a new ’78 Bonneville 750. Now I’m enjoying a ’17 Gold Wing. Over my four decades of riding, I’ve experienced my share of NRPs (non-riding persons). I do have to admit you have to be patient with them. When I’m traveling or stopping for a bite to eat, it never fails: a story comes up about a couple they know that’s been in a bad accident. Three subjects are always brought to my attention: no helmets, alcohol and, for some reason, “they were wearing flip-flops.” Go figure. 

I work at a multi-brand dealership. When I’m explaining the features to a customer, sometimes they ask me what is the most neglected part on a motorcycle. I tell them the owner’s manual…nobody ever reads them. Keep up the good work.

Danny Peevey, New Albany, Indiana 

Source: RiderMagazine.com

The March 2020 issue was a nice read, with the UJM comparison (“Return of the UJMs”)! Really nice to see the standards get some love. Despite my letter months ago decrying the small fuel capacity of the Katana, it sure delivers on performance. And after sitting on the bikes at the local dealer, I totally agree the Kawasaki Z900RS has the most relaxed riding position.

However, I think you could have easily included the XSR900 in the comparison. Yamaha had the XS750 and XS850 triples back in the day. I think you were too hard on yourselves trying to stay with the in-line fours, as a triple does not color too far outside the lines based on historical precedent. The XSR may well have handed the other bikes in the test a whooping in some areas of do-it-all performance. It certainly is no less mainstream in appearance or overall intended execution than something like the Katana. I know my opinion is just that, and a couple of cents along with it will get you a cup of coffee. With that said, I hope the hearkening back to the days of motorcycling when the bikes were more capable overall and not niche focused continues. And softening the lines while rounding the corners to create that classic UJM look is hopefully part of it too.  

In the meantime, I’ll continue to cherish my almost 20-year-old ZRX1200 that was a throwback to the UJM days two decades ago. Man, I would love a Z900RS in the garage though….

Howard Bonser, Palmer Lake, Colorado

In the March 2020 One-Track Mind article by Mark Tuttle (“Misconceptions”), “permissive use” was discussed. I honestly never thought about that clause before, and I’m one of those guys that swaps bikes with others. I also know that insurance stuff varies by policy and by state, so I felt I should call my insurance company and see if permissive use was covered. They assured me that my policy covers permissive use. Thanks, Mark, for causing me to pause and check into this. I encourage everyone to know what your policy covers, what its limits are and who is covered.

Robert Steinbrook, Northport, Alabama

I followed up with Robert, and he shared that he is insured with Markel. Another reader also checked with his insurance company (Geico), and was assured that occasional instances of permissive use were covered by his policy. –EIC 

I am a motorcycle rider of 55 years. I am also an insurance agent protecting more than 3,000 families. I take my job seriously. When someone asks me a question about insurance coverage I send them a copy of the insurance contract to show them what’s covered. But you are right, so many people don’t know what they have and what they don’t have.  Know your coverage before you need it!

Mark Eller, Savannah, Georgia

Mark Tuttle, you made me sit straight up in my seat—but not my motorcycle seat! Your “Misconceptions” column caused me to immediately send off a certified letter to my insurance agent asking for that company to mail me a written confirmation that what had been originally, verbally stated to me was, in fact, true: that if my friend, while borrowing my Harley-Davidson Road King, were to be in an accident, the company would treat the accident as if I, the insured, was riding it. “No problem Bob,” the agent replied. So I sat back down in my recliner and read every word of my car policy with its attached motorcycle addendum and I never saw anything even close to “permissive use” other than some vagueness. While I await the official answer, I thank you for bringing this to my attention.

Bob Lawson, Palm Desert, California

I just finished reading the March issue of Rider from cover to cover as I always do, but this time I was moved to write to EIC Tuttle about his comments on premium fuel. I run premium fuel in everything except my car and truck, but that’s because here in upstate New York, premium fuel is the only one available in non-ethanol. My motorcycles have a 67-year span in their ages and I don’t believe any of them are designed to use ethanol, any more than my other small engines, lawnmowers, chainsaws, snow blowers, etc. I always thought that was my reason for running premium, please correct me if I am wrong. Thanks, and keep up the great work!

John Brojakowski, Niskayuna, New York

Based on a search at pure-gas.org, it appears there are hundreds of stations selling non-ethanol premium fuel in New York, and some other Northeastern states as well. Although your power equipment and older motorcycles may or may not require premium, they will definitely be better off without ethanol, especially if they sit for a while between uses. Consider yourself lucky that New York has so many places where you can buy non-ethanol gasoline, premium or otherwise. In California, for example, non-ethanol pump stations are virtually non-existent outside of airports; it can generally only be purchased in cans and is very expensive. –EIC 

I am glad to see Mark Tuttle help lay the old wives’ tale to rest concerning the use of premium fuel in all motorcycles. As a lifetime gearhead, I agree. The only reason for raising the octane rating above what was recommended by the manufacturer would be an increase in combustion pressure, either by mechanical alteration or by forced induction such as a supercharger or turbocharger. Engine timing also should not be altered except for the same exceptions.

Jim De Shon, Hesperia, California

On page 32 in the March 2020 issue (“Arkansas Odyssey”) the name on the Civil War plaque refers to a Dr. Jackson who healed wounded troops. However, the caption below the picture has the name as Dr. Johnson. So, who was it really?

Dan Myers, North Bend, Oregon

Well, the sign should say Johnson, of course. Just kidding, Dan, our caption is incorrect. –EIC 

I look forward to each issue of your magazine. With Clement Salvadori’s revealing musings and Eric Trow’s safety insights, I can’t wait to read each issue from cover to cover. I feel a kinship with each writer and an excitement about this hobby, addiction and obsession many of us celebrate. In an age where other motorcycle publications have fallen away, I appreciate the unique vision Rider reveals about the lifestyle we have such a passion for. From the first issue I found on a coffee table a few years ago, I knew there was something special about this magazine. I own three motorcycles that span multiple manufacturers and riding styles, so I refuse to be pigeonholed into a particular subset. I am a motorcycle enthusiast and I take every opportunity to positively share it with the non-riding public. If we are to promote the amazing lifestyle of two wheels (or three, if you are so inclined) we need to work together to learn from our struggles, support each other and celebrate our successes as a community. Riderdoes a great job bringing together all the factions of motorcycling under one roof. Thank you for being a publication for the entire spectrum of motorcycling. Keep up the good work representing all of us.

Derik Yarian, Firestone, Colorado

What a thrill to read about Wendy Crockett’s historic Iron Butt Rally victory (Kickstarts, October 2019)! And then to learn that she rode the same 2005 Yamaha FJR as I do, with the bar risers and Russell Day-Long seat that I’m also crazy about. Last summer I managed a 9,400-mile circumnavigation of the U.S. in 23 days (plus 13 more days camping and visiting family or friends en route). Not the insanity of 13,000 miles in 11 days, but Wendy is an inspiration to us all to keep pursuing challenges (Alaska this summer?) and creating rich memories on two wheels. Thanks, Wendy!

Bruce Ente, Oberlin, Ohio

I’m 68 and don’t plan to stop riding anytime in the foreseeable future. What I tell myself is that as long as I have good balance I will stay on two wheels. If there is a way to ride my bike to the funeral home when the time arrives, I’ll find it. Having said that, I do pay far more attention to safety gear than I did when this long journey began. I recently purchased an expensive airbag jacket. I looked at all the options and decided this Helite jacket was the best “bang for the buck” option. I also wear full knee and shin protectors under my riding pants (I removed the pads that came with the pants). Perhaps you folks would do a comparison of the vests, jackets and leather suits with airbag technology out there. These are tough products to find in dealerships so your insights would be welcome. 

Bill Murphy, Reno, Nevada

Here in northern New England, I look out to my driveway and observe that an early fifth season is upon us: “Mud Season.” It is the season between the epic beauty of winter and that season known to many cold climate riders as “spring forth the motorbike from thee storages.” Of course, some riders in warmer climes ride year round. Very few here do. The approach of Mud Season is also the approach of Mindset Season for me. After reminiscing all winter about the best motorcycling moments of the past (a few Ozarks sweepers, Manitoulin Island cruising, Vermont “lost road” exploring…), I make it a point to think about the unpleasant surprises that exist too. I try to ask friends to share their stories, and share a few of mine as well, like one weekend ride years ago where paying attention to my surroundings and allowing myself plenty of space and reaction time saved me from potential disaster. These thoughts are the ones we tend not to consider all winter, but I choose to remember them every time Mud Season—and Mindset Season—blossoms with the daffodils.

Scott “Hop Along” Henkels, Canaan, New Hampshire

Source: RiderMagazine.com

I wish to comment on Rick Stern’s “Complex History” letter in the January Response. I so much agree with him. I wanted to write such a well-composed letter but did not think it would be printed. I am one-quarter Blackfeet, one-quarter Ottawa, otherwise known as a “half-breed,” which I am proud of. I have been riding for 65 years and reading your fine magazine since the early years. You do a great job.
Dan “Redskin” Howe, Apache Junction, Arizona

Hi Jenny, I read your excellent story, “100 Percent,” in the February issue. You mentioned the Hi Jolly monument in Quartzsite, Arizona. I stopped there so many years ago that I forgot where it was. Thank you for reminding me. You might be interested to know that the New Christy Minstrels had a song about Hi Jolly back in the ‘60s:

Hi Jolly, hey Jolly, twenty miles today by golly
Twenty more before the mornin’ light
Hi Jolly, hey-O, gotta be on my way-O
I told my gal I’d be home Sunday night

A story worth looking up, indeed.
Ken Shelley, Sparks, Nevada

I was pleased to see a photo of Hi Jolly’s pyramid monument in Jenny Smith’s KTM tour test article last month. It’s a great story for a history buff. Hadji Ali, a Greek-Syrian camel driver, acquired his nickname, Hi Jolly, when he came to the American Southwest with a herd of camels shortly before the Civil War. The U.S. Army, spurred by then Secretary of War Jefferson Davis, imported the herd to experiment with in desert conditions. Camels, they discovered, could work better and haul more than horses or mules, plus they frightened hostile Native Americans. The experiment was abandoned when the Civil War began, and most of the animals were auctioned or turned loose. As recently as 1996, wild camels were photographed in a remote area of Texas. Hi Jolly remained in the Southwest, marrying Gertrude Serna in 1880. Buried with him in the Quartzsite, Arizona, monument, are the ashes of Old Topsy, the last Army camel to die in captivity. For more information on the Army’s camel project, read “The Last Camel Charge” by Forrest Bryant Johnson.
Cathy Seckman, via email

So many times we have read the columns by esteemed editor Tuttle and safety columnist Trow. As a motorcyclist for the past 35 years and long-time subscriber, I have had a few “scrapes” along the way. All of them, thank goodness, did not involve cages but for one reason or another just my singular motorcycle. Not once was I hurt except for a left hand injury a few months ago, while my bike was totaled. I’m still on this side of the tarmac because I wear proper riding gear. Here in Georgia, it gets hot, but proper equipment goes a long way in keeping my keister where it should be. 
Ira Grable, Savannah, Georgia

I was reading Clem’s February Road Tales and it brought back some memories. Back in 1963 as a young man of 12 years old I had a 1959 Harley 165cc they called a Hummer. Just like Clem’s, now and then it would also start up in the wrong direction. I’d leave the clutch out and backwards it would go. Turn it off and kick one more time. Wish I still had that bike, it was my first one. My dad won it in a $100 poker game. 
Dan Mac Kenzie, Burr Ridge, Illinois

I must take the time to point out some factual errors in the Yamaha story in the February Retrospective. As an old guy, it is always the first thing I turn to when I get the magazine in the mail. As a long-time Yamaha guy, I always like it when you feature an old Yamaha. But…the Yamaha shown is not an MX in any way, shape or form. It is just a DT125. (I actually owned a DT175 version in the same era. I think it was a 1976 model.) Also, the MX designation had nothing to do with Monocross rear suspension. Yamaha had DT-MX models long before the monoshock YZ was introduced in late 1974. Thirdly, the last sentence says that two-stroke street bikes were made illegal in the US after 1981. Two-strokes have never been made illegal here. In fact, I owned a 1985 Yamaha RZ350 two-stroke back in the day. (Sold it for $1,500 in 1988, what an idiot!) The manufacturers stopped importing them for the street, but they are not illegal. In fact, the latest two-stroke transfer-port injected KTM and Husqvarna Enduro bikes may point the way to them making a comeback. Anyway, I enjoy the magazine always, and keep up the good work!
Bill Crisan, Indianapolis, Indiana

Just finished reading your article on carbs and ethanol. Good stuff. My two road bikes sit from November until March/April. (Depending upon good ol’ Michigan weather and this old guy’s bones.) I do two things. First, I drain the carbs if the bike is going to sit more than three days—anytime of year. It’s a 10-minute job. Second, for winter storage, after draining, add three times the prescribed amount of Stabil to whatever is in the tank. (Usually about a half tank.) At the first start in spring, add half a bottle of Techron to the tank. So far, for forty years, I’ve never had a carb issue. Bikes start first thing and run and idle like they were just run yesterday. Then befor the first ride of the year, top off the tank along the way. (I use premium—any brand will do.) One other note: you guys, and lady, are the greatest. Keep the good things going.
Larry Zimmer, Brighton, Michigan

I read your “Got Carbs?” article in the February 2020 issue and have to take issue with your assessment of fuel stabilizers—the StarTron in particular. StarTron is an excellent marketing company—to motorcyclists, especially—but their product didn’t serve me very well. One thing you neglected to mention in your article is the devastating effect ethanol-infused fuel has on plastic or composite gas tanks such as found on Aprilias and Ducatis. It was a known issue and Aprilia for a time was replacing distorted tanks under warranty, including my 2009 Tuono Factory tank.  

The problem I had regarding the use of StarTron—based on their marketing in magazines such as yours—was that I used it each and every time I filled the tank with fuel that had 10% ethanol, hoping to avoid the distortion. And even though I did this religiously, my tank distorted anyway, the gas cap sinking more than ¼-inch into the tank. I’ve never bought it since and have advocated against it to those seeking a solution. It was a very expensive non-solution. After replacing the tank, I went out of my way to find non-ethanol fuel and never ran the bike without it. No more distortion. Regarding actual fuel stabilizers, I have found that the marine version of Stabil (blue in color) works very well. I use it to stabilize the non-ethanol fuel I feed my Waverunners and yard maintenance machines, as well as my motorcycles if they have to sit more than a month. 

One other point regarding composite fuel tanks: the fuel destroys the fuel sensor gauge in the tank. I am on “version F” of this sensor, having had it replaced three times, twice under warranty. Ducati has been searching for a long-term solution to the problem and my understanding from my Ducati dealer is they feel they may have resolved the problem with this “version F.” Let’s hope so.  

At a 10% ratio, that means there is at least half a gallon of ethanol in a five-gallon gas tank. I just don’t see how a couple of ounces of some highly advertised stabilizer are going to negate the effects of that half-gallon of ethanol. In my case, in two bikes (Aprilia and Ducati) it did no good at all. Best just to get pure gas!
Wallace Rowan, Hartwell, Georgia

Point taken Wallace, but I have to ask: Did you buy the stabilizer expecting it to protect your tank from distortion? Because no stabilizer I’m aware of claims that it’s capable of that. They’re basically meant to prevent ethanol and water from separating out in the fuel and causing corrosion and other drivability problems. But the ethanol is still there, and fully capable of being its nasty self when it comes to consequences like distorting Ducati fuel tanks. Seems to me the culprit here is Ducati….unless the stabilizer also failed at one or more of its prescribed task(s). –EIC

I was pleased to see the shot of the mission church at Tumacacori National Park, where I am a volunteer. I flipped back to the first page of the article to look at the KTM and then looked at your website to confirm that I had indeed talked to Jenny Smith at the park. I remember suggesting that she ride Box Canyon, one of my favorite close-to-home rides on her way east. If she rides to New Mexico again my suggestion is that she ride a little dirt, Highway 62 from Continental through Box Canyon to Highway 83, and then through Empire Ranch to Highway 82, on her way to Tombstone. If the waterfall in Box Canyon is flowing it makes for a Rider-quality photograph.
Mike Biller, Sahuarita, Arizona 

Mark Tuttle’s February editorial on “De-Localizing” hit the nail on the head for me personally. I’ve ridden off and on since my early 20s (I’m 77), and have recently sold my 1998 V-Max 1200 after a tip-over in gravel, and given my increasing inability to feel secure holding up 620 pounds, I bought a 2011 Suzuki LS 650, which has been a major adjustment (381 pounds but low power). I, too, found myself not looking forward to a ride, using the familiar excuses: no longer exciting, over-familiarity with the local roads, takes too long to put on ATGATT (no shortcuts!) and so on. Like Mark, I too found a cure. Since long and/or overseas tours/rides are basically out for me (I also had a mild stroke), I have found other ways to “de-localize.” I take a small folding camp chair and use it at the destination or along the route, at some small lakes and a red rock canyon near home. I also have some destinations where I can enjoy the ambiance, like a rural country store at a crossroads, 54 miles out, or a tourist shopping area done in a pueblo style 10 miles out, where I can stop, get a coffee and just sit and enjoy. I also stop at some open or vacant parking lots along the route and practicing figure-eights, U-turns, panic braking and slow riding, e.g., basic motor officer techniques. This is rekindling my enjoyment of riding by merely changing my perspective and actions on the same rides, rather than the actual physical locations of the ride. 

BTW, I love your magazine. I’m always learning something in Rider, and not always dealing directly with motorcycles, but life in general. Thanks to you and your team for turning out a valuable resource each month. It is the MC magazine I most look forward to receiving in the mail each month.  
John E. Lincoln, St. George, Utah

You wrote about “De-Localizing” in your in your One-Track Mind column. I guess I can see how someone could start doing that, but I think that depends on your frame of mind. Be it good or bad, the roads, views or destinations are really not the point for me, it’s just getting on the bike and riding. While on the bike, I don’t listen to the radio, my phone or my wife for that point. I ride for the joy, peace, and contemplation. Ten years ago, my wife and I were one cross-eyed look away from a divorce. Our kids had left home and we had slowly drifted apart. We had gone to counseling and it had not worked. I did the Iron Butt’s National Parks Tour (50 parks, 25 states) in 14 days. During that time, I just rode, talked with God, worked through the situation and talked with my wife each night. When I got back, I had a renewed focus, we went to counseling again and we will celebrate our 39^th anniversary this year. If I had not had my ST1300, I doubt we would be married today. The roads are almost (almost) immaterial. It’s just the ride.

By the way, pie is good 24/7.
Jeff Snook, Charlottesville, Virginia

I have been enjoying Rider magazine for years now. On page 42 of the February 2020 issue, in the KTM 790 tour test author Jenny Smith has a picture of the Longhorn restaurant in Tombstone, Arizona. The caption states this is the site where Virgil Earp was shot. Being a history buff I believe that Virgil was technically shot from a window at this establishment as he crossed Allen Street. It is also stated that this act triggered the vendetta ride by his brother Wyatt against the perpetrators. This was certainly part of the build-up to the retaliation by Wyatt, but the actual final straw was the killing of his brother Morgan while playing pool in Campbell and Hatches saloon.
Patrick Murphy, via email

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Clem’s “Wide Open Spaces” (Road Tales) in the December issue, where he mentions single-lane roads, reminds me of a ride this past summer in northern Idaho. We camped at the Wagonhammer RV Park just north of Salmon, and rode our faces off, including a loop to Challis, the Salmon River and Corn Creek. (At the end of the road river rafts launch for a 3- to 4-day float, entering civilization again in Riggins.) There are many single-lane roads (obtain a Forest Service map locally) in this area, but my wife’s favorite loop was from Gibbonsville, over the Big Hole Pass (crossing the Great Divide), returning to the highway and visiting Wisdom, Montana. We returned west on State Route 43 and Chief Joseph Pass, then south to North Fork and the campground. We rode the Africa Twin, two-up with the pup, one of our most fun trips ever…shh, don’t tell too many people!
Greg Snider, via email

Seriously?! I love your mag but the decision to include the Kawasaki W800 with two obviously sporty/naked models is just wrong (“Multiple Personalities,” December 2020). We all know the café fairing on the W is just there for looks. This comparison should have included the Z650 instead. The W800 was designed for the baby boomers (like me) looking to revive their nostalgic past. Also, although you are relegated to testing 100% stock bikes, the addition of new fork springs, super bike bars and rear shocks will transform the W into a decent handler.
Scott Poley, Elmira, New York

The amazing Phil Steiner has done the nearly impossible, riding his 2015 Honda Gold Wing 500,000 miles exactly five years from the day he bought it (December 17, 2014). This past year (2019) was especially tough, since he had to leave the warm weather of Lakeland, Florida, in January to be with his ill daughter back in Lima, Ohio. Sometimes he would ride 300-mile days in sub-freezing temperatures with his Gerbing heated jacket. The Wing is on its second driveshaft, rear hub and water pump. The alternator is still going strong, however. Phil is not an Iron Butt member; he just rides because he loves it and doesn’t seek recognition or accolades. On November 10, 2019, he was at 482,500 miles, and had to ride an average of 500 miles a day for five straight weeks to hit 500,000. What’s next for the Man of Steel? He is thinking about getting the newer 2018-2020 Wing. But hey, he still has two years left on his extended warranty! 
Kenton Kloos, St. Louis

January’s Letter of the Month brought back a lot of memories. I was stationed in Key West in 1965-66, and needed secondary transportation as we only had a single Volkswagen car for my wife and I and our two children, and it was four miles from my house to work on the Naval base. So, at age 29 I got my first bike: a 1965 Honda 50, which was perfect for commuting in downtown Key West but, as many of you understand, it took less than a week to realize that I should have gotten something a bit larger (that T100 Triumph, perhaps). But a young sailor raising a family precluded that, and the Honda was perfect transportation for the time and place.

In ‘66 I got orders to a ship out of Norfolk, Virginia, so we shipped the family, furniture and Honda to Oregon, while I was on sea duty. The ship was severely damaged in 1967 and the entire crew was transferred—me to the Naval Station in Long Beach, California. On the way to Long Beach I stopped in Oregon on leave and traded the Honda 50 for a Honda CL160, spent a couple weeks breaking it in, adding a windscreen and BUCO saddlebags, and headed for California. After getting settled in San Pedro, I traded the 160 for a ‘57 BSA Shooting Star, one of my all-time favorite bikes, which I rode until getting orders to Midway Island, and sold the bike. After tours on Midway, Korea and Adak, I retired to Oregon in ‘76 and after going through a Triumph and several Kawasakis and Yamahas, I bought a ‘65 BMW R 65 S and fell in love again. In 2001 had to go to three wheels or give up riding, so bought a ‘97 Ural, followed by a succession of sidecars before finally picking up a 1988 R 100 RT/Ural with LL front end and GS gearbox, and this was, IMO, the best bike that I had ever owned.

In 2013, at age 77, I finally had to give up riding due to health, but will always love my motorcycles. My loving wife Sharon has shared my love for riding since we got married in 1996, and for Christmas in 2000 I bought her a Honda Helix/Champion sidecar rig and she took to it like a duck to water. I had to be sure and not let her lead, or she would run off and leave me in the twisties. Then I bought her a Honda Silver Wing (a.k.a. an armchair), and after I had to quit riding, she sold that too. I greatly miss my riding, but I have been a musician since 1939, and I still have my music. I am a member of the Oregon Old Time Fiddlers, and usually play a couple gigs a week at assisted living, nursing and rest homes, plus a monthly jam for the public in my home district, and travel to other nearby districts to perform.
Hal Thompson, Glide, Oregon

I just received the January 2020 issue; great Retrospective on the Suzuki Laredo 305. After all these years Clem is still finding new and interesting candidates. No nitpick here, wonderful restoration. From my moderate knowledge of Suzuki, this one looks to be showroom perfect. I know perfection is not a prerequisite for Retrospective but it is nice to see such a well-done example. I see a lot of similarities to the several T500s that have passed through my hands. I overlooked the existence of the scrambler-styled 305 entirely. Well done.
Ralph Noble, via email

I bought a Laredo 305 from a fellow airman in 1970 after returning from the Far East. It was a peppy little bike that liked to drink fuel, and served as my daily transportation for about six months. It developed some electrical gremlins that we eventually found and sorted out. You were right on about the narrow power band. The most maddening thing about the gearing was the huge gap between fourth and fifth and very little gap between 5th and 6th. If they’d have just lowered 5th a bit it would have made it a much better bike on the highway, especially when hilly terrain was in play. Thanks for the article. Very little is available on this bike and it helped me reminisce. 
Bob K., The Villages, Florida

I just read Eric Trow’s Riding Well (“The Road is My Conference Room”) in the January issue, and I remembered when my wife and I returned to riding in 2006 after an extended absence. Upon purchasing a new motorcycle we were eager to find some groups to ride with. Large or small, it made no difference to us. After participating in group rides for the last thirteen years, the use (or the lack thereof) of the points Mr. Trow made in his article have become evident. While some group rides were terrific, some were terrible. As I think back it becomes evident that the organizers of the enjoyable rides followed most or all of his pointers for a well-planned ride. The rest had little or no organization at all. Your article was spot-on Mr. Trow, as usual. I always look forward to what you have to say.
Ernie Owens, via email

Your Road Tale (“Clutter, and What to do About It,” January 2020) made me smile at a recent personal accomplishment regarding clutter. Somehow over the years, I became the custodian of my family’s heritage. I’ve carried around with me the ancient Singer sewing machine, the Great Aunt’s hope chest filled with mementos and tons of just…clutter. But when Hurricane Florence knocked hard on my door last year, it caused me much anxiety as to whether those “precious” things would survive the storm. Well, they did, and I realized it was time to unburden myself of their stewardship and pass them along to some other individuals who would cherish them as I had. I set about photographing hundreds of things from small trinkets, souvenirs and gadgets to larger things like tables, framed art and much, much more. I then posted these photos on Facebook’s Marketplace. I was shocked and amazed at the response I received. Within about two months, I had taken in about $7,000! I spent none of this. I kept every penny in a cash bag and then I had an epiphany. I would convert the clutter into a motorcycle!

Due to personal setbacks and health issues over the past seven years, I had gotten away from the one-time love of my life, motorcycling. But now I had renewed interest, good health and resources. I searched online and found a well-cared-for 2007 BMW K 1200 GT in Maryland. I drove nine hours to see it, test rode it in 35-degree weather with sleet falling, then bought her, loaded her up and back home I went. Since then, my wife bought herself a beautiful 2007 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 and we ride the heck out of ‘em! Our lives are more complete and so much more interesting now that the weight of that “clutter” has lifted from my shoulders.
Tony Phillips, Carolina Beach, North Carolina

After reading Clement’s article on clutter I quickly reflected on similar friends and family members that love to clutter. I personally have a method that keeps things organized and not so cluttered as to cause me to spend all my time digging through junk to locate the one item I need or having to create tons of storage to contain it. My rule of thumb is that if I haven’t used it in five years or it has no real monetary value or significant sentimental value, it goes in the trash or to Goodwill. This way the things I need often are organized and quickly accessible. I was having trouble convincing my wife to share my method until a motorcycle buddy shared a story with us. His mom and dad had passed so the three sons traveled to Missouri to clean out the family home to sell. They had all planned for one week to have this accomplished. When they arrived they found tons of boxes with memorabilia so they started going through each box to make sure things of value were kept. At the end of two days they hadn’t even dented the surface. The third day they had a dumpster delivered and started tossing all the boxes without even opening them. I suggested to my wife if there was something she really wanted our kids to have she needed to make sure the amount was limited to just those items. After acknowledging this reality we pared her clutter by about 90%. This ended up taking four long weekends, given we have an unfinished basement where it was easy for her to keep adding to the clutter. We now have items that are special and things we hope our kids will keep when it comes time to pass them along. 
Michael Donald, Braselton, Georgia

I have two comments regarding your January 2020 issue. First, Eric Trow’s article on group rides had some great points. I usually avoid any group rides with more than three or four of my closest friends. The only exception is the annual Christmas toy run. Keeping 1,500 to 3,000 riders organized is a challenge, and the ride encourages me to use all the skills I have learned in my 40-plus years of motorcycling (i.e. situational awareness and spacing). The number of participants who lack such skills is, well, eye-opening. Let’s just say their skills are surpassed by their generosity.

Second, I’m sure you will get letters from folks stating this bike or that wasn’t covered in the “New for 2020” section. That’s to be expected. I only regret you had to use pictures supplied from some of the manufacturers that literally don’t show their products in the best light. (I’m looking at you, Harley, with dimly-lit bikes on dark backgrounds.)
J. Sheets, via email

Skidding into the so-called Golden Years, the maxim of “live to ride, ride to live” has become a very personal reality. For decades, I’ve joked that my bikes have been cheaper than therapy. While out on the road in midsummer 2019, my wife sent a message that upon my return we would be touring a senior living complex. Oh, hell no! I’m not creeping gently into that good night. Give up my custom motorcycle garage, with orange and black tile floor, diamond plate trim and tool cabinets, black and gray walls, and a display of poker chips from visits to 342 dealerships all across the nation? But my wife had followed me through four decades of a hard career and a few moves, and I love her beyond words. She still encourages (and sometimes commands) me to hit the road for long adventures. What do you do?

The place looked nice, the people smiled a lot and there are EMTs on site 24/7. I don’t have to mow the lawn or shovel the walks or fix anything. The food is pretty good. The crisis moment came when I asked about motorcycle parking in the underground garage. The salesperson gazed with a confused face. “Uh, we don’t really have a place for motorcycles here. Sorry.” That nearly killed the deal, but they got creative and cleared a nice space. I made friends with the maintenance guy and he ran power to the wall for a battery tender. My bagger now rests comfortably in the underground garage.

I was still feeling pretty glum about leaving the home where we raised our kids and about selling my house to a guy who didn’t cherish the unique motorcycle garage. Then I made a great discovery: Rider magazine! There were several back issues of Rider in the lobby, amid the piles of old issues of Readers’ Digest (large print, of course), Healthy Aging, Senior Living, etc. I’d never encountered Rider in all my years of riding. My former go-to cycle mag had recently folded. I scooped up all of the used Rider issues and snuck them to our apartment, and spent the whole afternoon with six months’ worth of great ride suggestions, learning about new gear that I “need,” drooling over bikes, adding some route plans to the bucket list, digesting safety tips and finally understanding why I do actually need to save some pennies for an Arai helmet. I read Mark Tuttle’s article on Arai at least ten times. And, of course, I quickly signed up for several years of Rider. 

One of the back issues still had the name of the subscriber on it. I sought him out and gained a friend. We shared riding stories. He doesn’t ride anymore, but we share the passion. The back issues of Rider lead to new friendship and a deeper gratitude that I can still ride. (And I’m trying to be nice to the women in their 80s and 90s who want to touch the orange and black iron horse in the basement garage.) What a great magazine! Keep up the great writing.
Ken Wallentine, Salt Lake City, Utah

May of 1991 was the Spring Kick-Off at Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, Kentucky, and my first Rider Rally. I met several new friends abd enjoyed a nice ride to the Cedar Village Restaurant in Irvine, Kentucky, along with all the other activities. The Spring Kick-Off in May 1992 was at Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. One of the highlights was a breakfast ride lead by Clement Salvadori. The Dutch Country Adventure in July 1992 was at Lancaster, Pennsylvania. There was an interesting and enjoyable guided tour through the Amish countryside. The Spring Kick-Off in May 1993 was at the Chilhowee Park in Knoxville, Tennessee. A highlight was the guided tour to the Cumberland Gap and riding up to the Pentical. The light parade around the lake was great and included a uniquely customized Gold Wing GL1200 by Phillip Sanford. I also met a new friend, David Boyden (a.k.a. Huggie Bear), from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. The Dutch Country Adventure III in July 1993 was back in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. I enjoyed a guided tour to the Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Aberdeen, Maryland, and the Conawengo Dam area. The Spring Kick-Off in May 1994 was once again at Eastern Kentucky University. One highlight was riding to Shaker Village and crossing the Kentucky River on an old-time rickety ferry. Changing things up a bit, the Spring Kick-Off in May 1996 was at the West Virginia Air National Guard Base in Martinsburg, West Virginia. It rained the first day, however the second day allowed for a Skyline Drive Tour (180 miles—8.5 hours); I rode tail gunner on this one. The next day I led an Ice Cream Tour ride to Boonesboro, Maryland. The Rock ‘n’ Roll Revival in May 1997 was at the Camelback Ski Resort in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. Biker Billy was there, providing his famous “Cooking With Fire” demonstration. Comical and controversial, Senior Contributing Editor and On Touringcolumnist Clement Salvadori and Nick Nichols, a professional motorcycle product tester, were there and conducted some very interesting seminars. Cruising the Bluegrass was in May 1998 at Eastern Kentucky University. I opted for the guided tour ride to the Red River Gorge through the beautiful Slade Mountains of eastern Kentucky. This was my last Rider Rally and I was saddened to see them discontinued. 
David S. Bohrer, Silver Spring, Maryland

In regards to your quote in January’s One Track Mind (“We know that you don’t want to read an entire magazine’s worth of motorcycle reviews each month…”), I have to disagree. I enjoy all the departments in Rider but I could read good road tests all day long. It’s very hard to demo all the new motorcycles so the best way to find out what they’re like is to read quality magazines. Yours is at the top. 
William “Buz” Conlin, Monson, Massachusetts

I was born and raised in Mississippi, and visited the Deals Gap/Tail of the Dragon area three times over the years before moving to the Asheville, North Carolina, area nine years ago. Since that move I haven’t been to the Dragon once! There are so many exciting and beautiful roads to explore here without having to struggle with the crowds, speed demons and sports cars that plague the Deals Gap area. If anyone feels they must ride the Dragon I suggest going mid-week since weekends and holidays are very crowded. Once you’ve tested your riding skills there try the Cherehola Skyway or almost any road in the Smoky Mountain/Blue Ridge Parkway area. You’ll be amazed and pleased at the amount and variety of great riding experiences available here.
Robert May, Weaverville, North Carolina

The midsize ADV bike segment is hot and riders’ choices have certainly expanded from the popular and capable 650s, including the Suzuki V-Strom, Kawasaki Versys and BMW F models. Mission statements vary between those who primarily want road use to more off-road-capable varieties, but increases in displacement and tech advancements seem to be a positive step forward. I would love to see a comparison between the new wave of “mid-size” Euro ADV bikes from Ducati, BMW and KTM.

I imagine consumers will also look at Yamaha’s Tracer 900’s when considering bikes in this category. I rode the 2019 Yamaha Tracer GT at a factory-sponsored demo day last summer and was impressed.
John Aronson, Erie, Colorado

Source: RiderMagazine.com

When I read Mark Tuttle’s One Track Mind article last month entitled “Open Their Eyes,” I could not help but remember my friends suggesting that I should begin riding at the age of 50 during the midst of a terrible divorce. I had never ridden any motorcycle other than small dirt bikes on a handful of occasions. In addition to Mark’s suggestion about talking to the neighbor or friend that may have a casual interest, I’d like to also suggest mentioning the benefits of motorcycling to anyone going through a life changing event, such as a divorce. Riding allowed me to partially escape the pain of not seeing my children and to fill my lonely days with adventure, and opened my world to new friends. If you cannot attend the motorcycle shows referenced in Mark’s article, you could gently “push” the idea by offering to take a beginner motorcycle course with your friend. Seven years after my first ride, I am now on my fifth motorcycle and I ride more than ten thousand miles a year. Where would I be but for my friends’ gentle but forceful persuasion? I could not imagine my life today without riding.

Fran Murrman, Greensburg, Pennsylvania

Rider safety is the primary reason I am a religious reader of Rider. Decades ago, I took the most significant step in rider safety when I admitted to myself that riding is a dangerous sport, so I should do all I could to reduce that risk. Now, after four MSF courses and attention to safety and technique on every ride, I continue to work towards that goal. Tuttle’s article “The Next 50 years” cautioned those of us who have been riding for 50 years or better to consider carefully the steed we choose and company we keep, and was a significant contributor to my recent switch from a 2007 Suzuki DL1000 V-Strom to a 2016 Gold Wing. The other factor was my wife’s desire for a more comfortable ride. While I miss the amazing power-to-weight ratio and go-anywhere versatility of the V-Strom, I am enjoying the velvety smooth shifting, acceleration and low speed maneuverability of the Gold Wing. I read Eric Trow’s Riding Well article every month. His October 2019 article, “Accidents Happen — Or Do They,” masterfully described how to reduce the risk of accidents. Also have to give a shout out to Jenny Smith for her insightful “Sticking Together” article in the same issue. I will keep and reread that one before each group ride.

Richard Thomas, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

I just finished reading the November issue, and it may be my favorite one yet. While I’ve never owned a Harley or Indian, I love reading about them and was pleased to see their new lineups. Then came the article on my home state of Iowa, and riding its roads in the northeast, something I had long wanted to see in your magazine. The Gold Wing article was also of interest, as I love that bike, and the article on the ride to Deadwood. And to top it off was the Retrospective on Honda’s rocket of a cruiser in the ‘80s, the V65 Magna. I had the extreme pleasure of owning a (“mere”) V45, and that may have been my favorite bike ever. It was so coolly styled, blazing fast and, of course, had Honda’s dependability. Twist the throttle and you were gone instantly. I loved that bike. With this issue, you were truly hitting on all cylinders!

Craig Rupert, Richmond, Virginia

Just reading Retrospective (November 2019), where you said the V65 had an under-seat fuel tank and the one up top was fake. In fact, the normal fuel tank was real and there was another sub-tank. No “fake fuel tank.”

Kurt Grife, via email

My bad! I must have been thinking of my ST1100 when I wrote about the “fake gas tank” and “4.5 gallons sat under the saddle.” The V65 Magna had two gas tanks, a real one up top, and a smaller tank under the saddle with a fuel pump. Can’t find the capacities, but think the top tank was about three gallons, bottom, 1.5. –CS 

Thank you Rider for not changing your format to big pictures on fancy paper with little to read! Thank you Rider advertisers for continuing to buy ads in the printed magazine! This magazine is where I find out about your products via the ads and reviews. It is also where I am most likely to find your web address or to know your name to use in a web search.

David Lay, Cumberland Center, Maine

I recently read fellow subscriber Alan Paulsen’s touring article, “Stage Route to Deadwood” (November 2019). While very informative for the most part, there was one notable segment of the piece that made me cringe. My own ancestry does not include any indigenous Americans, but if it did, I would have taken particular offense to the author’s terminology in referring to the military clash between the forces lead by Red Cloud against the U.S. Army. As depicted in the article, the Army did suffer a disastrous defeat, by an armed opponent of overwhelming number and force. However, to use the terminology “slaughter” and “massacre” in describing this battle is quite distasteful and inaccurate. Such terms are far more accurately used to describe events such as the wholesale killing of non-combative indigenous Americans at an event which has come to be known as the Marias Massacre in the (then) Montana Territory on January 23, 1870, or at Wounded Knee, which took place on December 29, 1890. In both instances, the U.S. Army wantonly gunned down hundreds of defenseless old men, women and children.

For fellow Rider subscribers interested in an insightful summary of the battle referenced in your story, I highly recommend reading an article by Shannon Smith at WyoHistory.org, titled “New Perspectives on the Fetterman Fight.” I studied American History as an undergraduate and have enjoyed a lifetime of reading and learning about our country’s fascinating and often complex Westward expansion. I know our society is often accused of being overly sensitive, but in this case I feel more care could have been utilized. 

Rich Stern, via email

After rereading “Best Budget Brake Mods” in the November issue, I noticed an important step for any brake job not being mentioned: using an aerosol brake cleaner on the rotors and new brake pads. Either sprayed or rubbed on with paper towels, it will remove, or at least loosen, any brake pad residue or road grime from the rotors that the sandpaper may have missed, and will also remove any manufacturing residue from the new brake pads.

Bill Dennehy, Hanover, Massachusetts

My November issue arrived a day ago and I picked it up this morning. Right at the start I see Tuttle’s One-Track Mind reminding me of the motorcycle show I used to enjoy. After attending for many years at the San Mateo County Fairgrounds, the Progressive International Motorcycle Show dropped the visit to northern California a few years ago. Something like 7 million people live in this area and the people who put on this show cannot be bothered. When I see their ad in your magazine now I check the other side and rip it out. If they can get to smaller markets like Cleveland and Minneapolis, they can get to my more populous area too.

Tom Miller, via email

As I was reading Clem’s Retrospective about the Honda V65 Magna in the November issue I noted an incorrect statement. He notes that the redline is 10,000 rpm and then comments that, “A lot could go wrong with 16 valves popping up and down 10,000 times per minute.” In all four-stroke engines with both intake and exhaust valves, each valve cycles at one-half of the engine speed, so in the Magna at 10,000 rpm, each valve is cycling at only 5,000 times per minute. There is still a lot happening. Each piston is cycling up and down 167 times and each valve is opening and closing at 84 times per second. Now we know why oil is so important to keep an engine healthy.

Kern Fischer, via email

I was surprised to see Eric Trow write in his November Riding Well column, “I routinely employ observation, logic and intuition on every ride….” Why surprised? Because several years ago, Eric used the same terms in a different sequence — “observation, intuition and logic” — and collapsed those words into the memorable and moto-appropriate acronym OIL. Ever since then, I’ve recalled Eric’s clever OIL mnemonic on many rides. No need to change the OIL, Eric! Thanks for your consistently excellent and valuable columns.

Mark Hammond, Mohawk, New York

Until Honda launched the all-new 2018 version, I wasn’t interested in the Gold Wing as it was too large, but this new model is great. The double-wishbone front suspension is amazing and soaks up bumps like an accordion. It’s much easier to maneuver at low speeds compared to most big bikes or my ST1300. I encourage all riders to not think of the DCT automatic like a car. It’s smooth, quick and exciting to use. It’s also intuitive and can be tweaked to some extent to fit your riding style and shift accordingly. When riding, I’m not thinking about shifting, I’m paying attention and enjoying the ride. If you want to add additional excitement, start playing with the paddle shifters, hang on and listen to the sweet sound of the exhaust. Regarding gas mileage, I consistently average in the high 40s. I feel Honda not only hit a bull’s eye, they reset the benchmark for all models to follow.

Pete Rancourt, via email

Having lived in the Black Hills for 25 years, I read Alan Paulsen’s article with great interest. In many situations those writing about the Hills scarcely touch on the heritage there. I hope Alan’s article brings more riders during the “off time” (not the Sturgis rally) to enjoy some of the best riding in the U.S. My wife and I have traveled the United States and Canada since we started riding together in 1980, and have doubled our riding efforts since retirement in 2007. I always look forward to the riding articles in your mag; many we have already gone on but consider doing again. The wisdom of Eric Trow is always shared and discussed with fellow riders and Mr. Salvadori’s wit and wisdom often brings some stimulating conversation around the dinner table. I can’t say enough good things about your mag.

On a side note, Alan and I spent many a day taking apart and reassembling many motorcycle engines and agonizing over electrical trouble shooting some 40-plus years ago. It is always good to hear that others in our class are still out there riding and enjoying this great continent. I can’t help but comment that most long distance riders seem to lean toward the philosophical. My guess is that many of us ride without the benefit of music, radio or other forms of communication, just the sound of our motors, the wind in our ears and incredible scenery. Give Alan my very best, and see you all on the road. 

Bruce Stinson, Prescott, Arizona

I enjoy your magazine above all other motorcycle magazines. It really is for people who enjoy, ride, respect and revere motorcycles. All that is evident in each issue. The two-page ad just inside the November issue’s front cover for a certain petroleum product shows a picture of a gentleman who I’m not sure is dressed in a manner that coveys much of that. That company may know more than most of us about engine protection, but it seems to know practically nothing about rider protection.

Belson Jones, Abbeville, South Carolina

Thanks for the kind words, Belson. Regarding the Chevron advertisement, you may have noticed that the company changed the image in the ad for the next (December) issue. Though we gave it our best shot, it was simply too late to change or remove it for the November issue by the time the editorial staff saw it. Kudos to all of you who wrote to express your concern, and to Chevron for being so receptive to our suggestions for the following issue. –EIC

Source: RiderMagazine.com