Forward Thinking Way Back When...

Last year saw a lot of firsts for me: my first new Harley, my first trip 'home' to Milwaukee, and my first week-long motorcycle adventure to celebrate 115 years of all that is Harley-Davidson.

This year will find me back to Wisconsin, my first solo trip by motorcycle, and my first Annual Dealer Meeting in Milwaukee. In fact this year marks the 100th Anniversary of Dealer Meetings.

First Convention Booklet Cover

Just before the annual motorcycle show in Chicago, the founding fathers invited dealers to Milwaukee -that was November 1919. In the years prior many dealers flocked to the factory, since it's close to Chicago, and conveyed what their customers wanted as well as to get technical training.

Dealers getting briefed on the 1936 EL, November 1935

The first ever National Dealer Convention was quite noteworthy!

"It was truly a successful event... from the standpoint of the dealers and those who troubled to pack their kits to come to Milwaukee, as well as from the standpoint of the promoters of the idea." ~Motorcycle and Bicycle Illustrated: Nov. 27, 1919 

A welcome as BIG as it gets!

Harley-Davidson recognized even back then that their dealerships are 'on the ground' with the customers, and were quick to listen to what they were saying.

Legendary "Dot" Robinson and a 1957 K Model

With that in mind, fast forward to today: What is it you'd like us at FX Caprara Harley-Davidson to convey to the MoCo for you??

What I learned on my Ride Home

ICYMI: Harley-Davidson had their 115th Anniversary in Milwaukee, Wisconsin over the Labor Day Weekend. And I rode there on my 115th Anniversary Heritage Softail, aaalllll the way from Northern New York with members of our Northern New York Harley Owners Group..... and then I rode a bit more before coming home.

I went from FX Caprara Harley-Davidson to Elyria, OH, to Milwaukee, WI to Munising, crossing over the Mackinac Bridge to Alpena and Port Huron, MI, and cutting through Canada to Niagara Falls before coming home.

After 2,217 miles on the road, here's what I learned: 

Skirting rain clouds on the coast of Lake Michigan (photo credit Google Maps)

• When you stop, check the weather radar -then put on ALL your rain gear if needed!

Somewhere in Ohio on our way out our group stopped to gas up and grab a quick bite. One member checked his weather app and proceeded to suit up while I thought all I needed was just my rain jacket.... WRONG! I got drenched.

Not making the same mistake on the same trip!! As I left Milwaukee there were numerous pop-up thunder showers, so I put on my full rain gear and this time it did its job -kept the rain away.

Remember to leave room for all the goodies you want to bring home!

• If you collect souvenirs, you'll need space to carry them home!

Start with a list of what you're going to pack, and stick to it. And once you've packed it all, make sure you've got space to bring home the souvenirs. I had extra space, but not enough and so I missed out on getting duty free items in Niagara before coming home. (Of course that just means I have to go back!!)

Harley-Davidson Serial Number 1 -a must see!!

• Have an idea of what you want to do, but not a plan...

Being in Fort Drum's backyard, we have more than a few "military" types who can have the tendency of over planning... but what I found works best is to have an idea of what you'd like to do/see, but don't be a slave to a rigid schedule. When you allow for flexibility, you'll be able to relax, enjoy the moment and see what the day brings.

These lovely ladies put on a great show at Veterans Park

• Getting to meet interesting people

We met more than a few people along the way who were also riding out to Milwaukee, then even more when we got to where we were going. Guys that rode all the way from Brazil. People from Japan. Others speaking German. And to top it off, one of our Uber drivers who wants to ride his motorcycle in NNY next year.

Gertie the Duck on the Milwaukee River

• U-Turns are what make a trip interesting

These days GPS and route planners make getting from A to B a lot easier... but if your bike is like mine, you might not have that info right in front of you. Trying to remember route numbers and directions isn't always easy... and when you miss a turn, even though it's a 'mistake' it sometimes is for the best because then you find interesting stuff.  There's a saying, "You're not lost as long as you've got gas," and this is very true when it comes to traveling by motorcycle.

A quiet spot close to Niagara Falls

• There really is still kindness in the world

Despite all the news headlines would have us believe, there are nice people out there. While putting on all my rain gear (after Milwaukee) I had a couple of riders stop in to check if I was ok. And while riding in Canada, all I had to do was put on my turn signal (to change lanes) and other cars would let me right in! It seemed where ever I went there were nice people welcoming me, asking how the ride was.

My Bike looking over at the Mackinac Bridge before crossing

• It wasn't fear I was feeling, it was the excitement of getting out of my comfort zone

During the torrential down-pour we experienced on our way out to Milwaukee, the 'fear' briefly flashed through my head, "There's lots of water on the road, I'm on a new bike, visibility is bad... I could so easily loose control and go down..." but then I stopped myself. They weren't really fears, just self doubt (which I definitely don't need while riding a motorcycle down the interstate in the pouring rain!). 

Instead I focused on my riding ability and the fact that my 2018 Heritage Softail has ABS. With my Basic Rider's Course Instructor's Voice in my head (even though I took the course nearly 10 years ago), putting the fact that I was soaked through from the waist down to the back of my mind (at least it was a warm rain), and laughing because the water was giving me a nice "fresh water facial" (what some people pay $120 for!!) allowed me to relax and ride through it. The upside to the down-pour for me was increased confidence in my ability and knowing what I can accomplish.

Tribute to the fun I had after the party in Milwaukee

• Take the time and really enjoy your life, no matter your age!

Growing up in the '70s & '80s the pressure was on to know what I wanted my career to be, graduating high school and college, and getting a good paying job with great benefits... That wasn't necessarily bad advice, but I realize now that was what their priorities were- not mine. 

When traveling by motorcycle I am forced to slow down and listen to my own voice. I turned 50 this year and I've realized that if I want to stop to enjoy a view or try a restaurant I should do just that. That it's ok to not have a priority or plan and to just enjoy myself, living in the moment. 

B-e-a-utiful Sunset in Michigan

• Be grateful for the little things

Riding along the coast of Lake Michigan and seeing those views, the beauty of the setting sun, flowers blooming and bees buzzing in a summer garden... After saying "WOW!" at the show Mother Nature was giving me, I'd follow up with a, "Thank you!" I am so blessed to be able to take this all in.

Pictured Rocks on Lake Superior, Michigan's Upper Peninsula

Niagara Falls in the Evening

Riding Home for the 115th Family Reunion

This month I'll be riding out with members of our Northern New York Harley Owners Group, taking our two-wheeled 'wagons' and heading West. Because the HQ of Harley-Davidson is in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and this is their 115th Anniversary Paaaaarty.

It's going to be my first 'Family Reunion' of sorts, and the first time I've ridden my motorcycle this far - I'm so excited!!! I'm hoping that I'll actually follow my own advice that I recently blogged about: THE List of What & How to Pack and Battle Biker Fatigue (but I'm not making any promises!!).

Of the nine Bikers riding with me, some I've known only a couple of months, others a couple of years, and one going on 25 years (hi honey! 😉) -and all I feel close to because we share the same passion for a life on two wheels.

I just read how scientists have proof that 'the family we chose'  (aka our friends) are actually genetically related. Enough so that your 'Sister from another Mister' or 'Brother from another Mother' just might be your fourth cousin... How cool is that?!

That being said, families can still have squabbles and debates. Hell, these days good friends and even perfect strangers can get into a heated argument. 

Seriously! Ask about politics, climate change or religion- most people are quick to give you their opinion, and even quicker to ridicule yours if it doesn't match their view. 

Recent so-called journalism only adds fuel to that fire. Take this bit from NY Times on Youtube - 'reporting' other peoples' reactions to but not the whole story of the facts (and yes, I watched the entire video). It seems that their interest lies more with getting all of us wasting our brain power and energies on their pointless horror stories rather than practicing real journalistic values.

So before heading out, I just wanted to clarify a couple of issues that go to the heart of our family tree -because there is still a lot of gossip & rumors floating around out there:

• Harley-Davidson is a company and iconic brand that has been operating continuously since 1903. Over the 115 years since then they've grown to include markets outside the United States. In 2017 there were 103 countries that their motorcycles sold in. Of that, 94% of those motorcycles were produced in their US plants.
• It is their plan and preference to make their motorcycles in the United States - something that has not changed since 1903. 
• The MoCo does not wish to be in any political spotlight, but thanks to the current media highlighting and inciting drama, here we are.What Harley does want is a level-playing field, to inspire current and new Riders, and to work diligently to resolve these trade disputes while keeping the best interest of their customers, dealers, employees, suppliers and the brand in mind.
• With the current tariffs in place, HDMC is being squeezed at both ends: 1) Steel prices have gone up and 2) the European Union has increased their tariff to 25% on US bikes over 500cc's. Despite this increase to manufacturing and export costs the motor company has pledged to not pass along those to dealers or customers, opting to cover the cost themselves. However they cannot carry these higher costs indefinitely and, like any company with good business sense would, must look to find the best solution. Hence them looking at the possibility of building a plant overseas for overseas production. 

Let's all just take a breath and remember to enjoy this life. We certainly don't have to race to the 'conclusion finish line' and we can be open to the whole, entire story of facts. 

And if you're one of the hundreds of thousands about to descend on Milwaukee, look me up!! 😉

Beat Biker Weariness with these 7 Tips

You Deserve a Break

And taking a nice, long road trip by bike is one of the best ways to treat yourself.

However, if you find that you'll be spending quite a few hours racking up miles behind bars (say to Milwaukee for the 115th Anniversary Celebration like me!!), you'll want a plan to stay fresh and alert while on your journey.

At FX Caprara Harley-Davidson we've got these 7 tips to help you avoid the dangers of becoming road weary.

Photo by Floris Jan-roelof on Unsplash

1. Get some good shut-eye

In other words, be well rested. Plan to pack your bike a day or two before you leave so you won't be up till 2am doing last minute stuff. Or go to sleep early and pack in the morning. Either way get a full night's sleep before starting off.

Also, you can always stop and take a 'power nap' if you feel drowsiness setting in. It's much better to recharge your system for the rest of the day's ride than to push yourself too hard/far so that you're putting your life and others at risk.

2. You are what you eat (and drink)

No doubt that you spend more energy while riding than you do when driving. So much so that you might feel famished when you stop for your lunch and/or dinner... a word of caution:

When you eat a large, heavy meal (like spaghetti dinner or double cheese burger with fries) your body will then need to digest all that food -which also takes energy.... See where I'm going with this?

Instead we find it better to eat smaller meals more often -like every other time you stop for gas. Foods high in protein are best. And keep yourself well hydrated -with both water and something with electrolytes if it's hot out.

Photo by Bogomil Mihaylov on Unsplash

3. You gotta stop sometime

You've got promises to keep and 400 miles to go before you can sleep... But here's a tip: this is not a race, endurance or otherwise. Take your time, pace yourself and stop when you need to. 

My personal preference is to stop every 100 miles or so. If you're riding in a group you'll want to plan with the others when to stop, because different riders will have varying distances for their preferences.

4. Remember to Move It, Move It

When you do stop take a moment to make some movement. Walk, stretch, sit in the shade of a tree, start a conversation, grab that light snack and hydrate. This will help to keep both your body and mind fresh.

Photo by Cristobal Baeza on Unsplash

5. Ride like the Wind (just don't fight it)

The main reason Bikers burn more calories riding than other people do driving is because they're out in the wind. That wind is number one in creating fatigue, both in noise and aerodynamically (it pushes against our middle). 

To cut wind noise use earplugs and/or a helmet that covers your ears (3/4 or full face). And for looooong trips you might want to put a windshield or fairing on your bike to help split the wind around you.

6. Take the Scenic Route

When possible take the back roads versus taking the interstate. That's because you'll be going through different speed zones, shifting through the bike's gears, and leaning through the curves equals more engagement with your mind and body.

Of course there are times when you need to buzz out there as fast as you can, you'll have to be on the highways and the interstate. Here, to avoid getting lulled into a zoned out trance, pass for position and don't use your cruise control. Reasonably moving around traffic and varying your speed by 5 mph will help you keep you alert. 

7. Talk it Out

Try using a communication system so you can talk to the other riders with you, listen to your favorite talk show/podcast, or sing along to your music. 

Even doing the "Biker Wave" will help you feel more alert and engaged. Added bonus: you'll be an ambassador for motorcyclists with everyone on the road.

My first 30 days in Behind Bars...

You may remember this past February I broke up... with my 2004 Dyna Super Glide. I traded her in and got my 2018 115th Anniversary Heritage from FX Caprara Harley-Davidson.

Except that it was February... Not exactly Riding Season in Northern New York. 

So I had to wait... and wait... and wait... Then finally, on Earth Day no less, we were finally together and Riding.

One month later and 738 miles are in behind bars of this beautiful bike, and it's been phenomenal! 

Even though there are quite a few differences between my new bike and my old -most notably the engine displacement (my '04 was 88 cubic inch (1450cc), new is 114ci (1868cc)... !!!) -the new still felt like my old friend: cozy & natural. 

And yet, the 114ci Milwaukee-Eight motor is smoooooth -so smooth in fact that it's very easy for me to get up to 70mph and not realize it. (I hope no police are reading this!)

The frame of the 2018 Heritage is as agile as my old bike, making it a true joy to lean into the corners, roll on the throttle and go flying down the road.

With the high-performance suspension, the bike is easily maneuverable in parking lots as well as quite comfortable on long rides. 

Then there's the torque... as in there's A LOT of it!! 

In case you didn't know, torque is the feeling you get as the power of the motor gets transferred to the pavement, sitting you back in your seat.

At first it was hard for me to know when to shift, because this bike has torque that pulls through every gear (rather than running out of power forcing the rider to up-shift). 

The power and torque that the new Softails have will truly put a smile on your face! As the MoCo puts it, "...increased lean angle, quicker turn-in, quicker acceleration and more flickability, all with easier lift-off from the side stand."

I'm here to tell you that is truth in advertising!! Beyond the specs of any bike, there is the 'fun factor' to consider when making a buying decision. And all the new Softails, with their Milwaukee-Eight engines, have a very high rate of 'smiles per mile.' 

I am very much looking forward to many more days behind bars, riding my new Heritage for many, many more miles.

If you're interested in what my 'old' bike is doing now, she's gone on to have lots of fun doing wheelies and performing stunts with Hostile Crew -check out their Facebook page and Instagram.

5 Packing Mistakes to Avoid when traveling by Motorcycle

Baseball's Opening Day is tomorrow, there's the promise of Spring in the air, I'm all set to get on my new bike and start the Riding Season.... But all I can think of is my trip to Milwaukee, happening in six months!

2018 is is Harley-Davidson's 115th Anniversary year. That's over a century of continuous motorcycle manufacturing (unlike what some other brands that try to claim). And to celebrate the MoCo is throwing one heck of a party!

So for my vacation this year, some NNY H.O.G. friends and I are riding out to Milwaukee to join in the festivities. And while we're planning the route & stops, one thing you definitely don't want to overlook is how and what to pack on your bike.

Here's five mistakes to avoid:

• You just throw it all in... You're gonna want a way to get your stuff from your bike to your hotel room (or campsite). You might think those plastic shopping bags are just for that purpose, but you'd be wrong! They rip, they never hold enough, their cheap, and you're not going to look anywhere near as glamorous as this woman -not that Bikers care... What I advise instead is to get yourself a set of Saddle Bag Liners to pack your stuff in... sssooo much easier!

• You bring everything & the kitchen sink... There's a finite amount of room on your bike, so think carefully what clothes you're going to bring. Just two pairs of shoes (in addition to your riding boots), clothes that can do double-duty -like windproof jackets or vented and moisture-wicking shirts. Pack your underwear & socks into your shoes -you'll want to use every bit of space! You will need two pairs of gloves, a small first aid kit, and don't forget your meds. Take with you travel size toiletries. Plan to do laundry. Less is way more in this case.
• You don't save space... When you travel, do you buy souvenirs? Shot glasses, fridge magnets, dealer tees, etc. are going to be taking up space in your bags on the way home. Consider buying that dealer tee to wear on your trip (one less shirt to pack), or mailing your goodies home. 

• You didn't check the weather... Say you're riding to a rally and all you pack is tank tops- chic yes, but not so good when they're getting a good sized rain storm!! It's always a great idea to pack a rain suit, because waterproof equals windproof and it'll help keep you warm. Still, check the weather on the way out & back as well- you might want your full leathers rather than your light-weight nylon jacket.
• You make your bike lopsided... Remember that you'll be balancing on two wheels, so you don't want a bunch of weight on one side, or heavy stuff up high. Put shoes and toiletries at the bottom of your saddle bag, towards the front (closest to your bike's center of gravity). You'll want to save the lighter stuff- maps, charging cords, gloves- for windshield bags and your tour-pack/trunk. Never hurts to have extra bungee cords or cargo nets to help keep stuff in place.

Do you have questions or other packing tips to share? You can contact me at FXCHD!

How to Break Up -- (aka how to successfully trade your bike in)

Yup, I did it. On Groundhog Day no less (at least it wasn't Valentine's!). 

But I'm not talking about the romantic kind.... Well, it was sort of. After a 10 year relationship, and 40,000 miles, I've broken up with my 2004 Dyna Super Glide.

We had some great times together & I'll never forget you!!

I traded her in for a New 115th Anniversary Heritage at FX Caprara Harley-Davidson, and I have no regrets. 

Are you thinking of breaking up with your bike? (aka trading in) Well then, keep reading cuz this is how you do it:

1. Know that you're not going to get out of the relationship exactly what you put in: I bought my Super for $9500, and since then I've spent close to another $3000 on parts & maintenance. NADA.com values my bike now between $2900-$3900... that's a 30-40% return just on my original purchase price. Of course I had the maintenance done and engine upgraded out of love, not for the money. 
2. Leave 'em feeling loved: Yes I rode my bike and I wasn't afraid to put the miles on, and I also got her in for regular maintenance routinely. This is key because the dealership will be able to tell (kinda like when your dentist asks if you've been flossing...).
3. No 'take backs': You put extra stuff on your bike, you told/showed the dealer your bike with the extra stuff - like a Daymaker LED Headlight for example. And the dealership gave you a quote based on that extra stuff. Then you bring your bike in, except now the stock sealed-beam headlight is on it.... Not cool at all. Unless it's extremely personal, leave it. (At FXCHD we can tell you about the personal, interesting things we've found in traded bikes!)
4. Clean 'em up: It's one thing if your trade is a true 'barn find.' But if not then at least wash the dust & bug guts off and present your bike in the best light.
5. It ain't done till the paperwork is complete: Bring in the A) Title, B) Lien Release or Bank info & payoff amount, C) current Registration and D) the Owner's Manual for the bike you're trading. The dealer will need the first three to sell your bike to the next owner, and the manual is nice to give as well. 

Want to get a Trade Value for your bike at FXCHD? Click Here

Looking forward to starting a nice, long relationship with this one!!

Biker Resolutions for going into the New Year

Anyone else think 2017 was sort of weird, or is it just me?

Between the weather, juggling the boatloads of work I have with family life and riding, this year has been kind of a bust... (I did ride to Gettysburg which was really cool.)

And now, just moments before the new year begins, everyone starts telling me to plan and make resolutions for the New Year. 

In fact, just the other day I printed off Harley-Davidson's marketing calendar for the year. WTH? Seems like everyone but me has a plan...

In HDMC's defense, 2018 is their 115th Anniversary and they're planning a LARGE celebration in Milwaukee - and that kind of party you do need to coordinate months in advance.

Despite the MoCo planning out 2018, it's ok that I don't have resolutions for 2018. That's because if you're a Biker you know that we usually don't make New Year's Resolutions.

Resolutions are made by those who have resolved not to have adventures.

Yup, I tricked ya -sorry. But, in light of all that, here are five of the most popular resolutions and what you should do instead for 2018:

#1: Get in Shape
True that December seems to be a month long all-you-can-eat orgy of decadent foods, and you probably consumed 4500 calories in a single meal, but by no means do you have to loose the love-handles gained. Hey- Round is a shape people!

If you really want to loose weight, start off by getting one of the new 2018 Softail models which are up to 35 pounds lighter (compared to 2017 models) and a 34% stiffer chassis. Then ride it to the gym or the park to meet your personal trainer.

#2: Enjoy Life to the Fullest
Do you really need a resolution to do this?? 

To really enjoy life to the fullest, you should have and ride a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. When you own a Harley there is nothing more - and nothing less - than a way to get the most of that  life has to offer.

#3: Spend more time with Friends
Again, you need a resolution for this??

Bikers do this already when they walk into a Harley-Davidson dealership (like FXCHD) and join a chapter of the Harley Owners Group (like NNY H.O.G.). Here you'll meet people from all walks of life and all levels of riding experience who have one thing in common: a love for being in the saddle of a Harley.

#4: Learn Something New
So you say you're going to learn Mandarin in 2018.... And when is your trip to China scheduled?? And when you don't achieve this how will you feel? Taking on something new can be frustrating and a time drainer. 

Maybe instead try a more attainable goal, like learning to ride a motorcycle. If you can ride a bicycle, you can ride a motorcycle. And if you know how to manually shift a car, you're that much more ahead of the game. The best and easiest way to do it is to take a class taught by professionals.

Already have the "M" endorsement on your license? Then we say to teach something new. Most Bikers I know are happy to tell you what they know about riding, the tips and tricks they've learned along the road. Sort of like a mentorship to those who have just started out in a life on two wheels. 

#5: Travel More
OK, if there is ever a 'resolution' among Bikers, it's to:

Ride More Miles

But don't just make those miles to and from work. Get out and ride!! Cross into a different state or even a time zone. Save your money, plan the route, tell your friends.

2018 marks the 115th Anniversary for Harley-Davidson and I'm already planning to join with more passionate people in Milwaukee this coming labor day. 

How to Look Like a Bad-Ass Biker this Fall

Crisp days and longer nights. Cool enough to wear a hoodie and boots, but not so cool that you'll need a puffy coat. And nobody did it better than The Queen of Bikers: Gemma Teller (aka Katey Sagal in her Sons of Anarchy roll).

Katey, in real life married to Sons creator Kurt Sutter, is not actually involved with motorcycle gangs (that I know of anyways)- but she sure had one great wardrobe while on set. Tank tops layered with plaid and lace, jewelry, leather jackets and those boots gave the perfect image to match her character's attitude - which was fearless.

Why not embrace a full biker dress while wandering around with your gang this Fall. Don't be scared- just roll on the throttle and go with it.

Side Note- You don't have to go far or wait days for these fashions to arrive. We've got 'em at FX Caprara Harley-Davidson now. Not close to us? Find it online with Harley.

The Relaxed Fit Plaid Shirt: 

Bring a slightly oversized (but not sloppy) look with the Relaxed Fit Plaid Shirt (96019-18VW). Believe me when I say this layer is soft and lightweight. This long sleeve top goes perfectly over a skinny tank and distressed jeans. 

Caution- Soft Shoulder:

Crochet Lace Shoulder (96010-18VW) is the "it" tee for Fall. The washed cotton, lace yoke and button placket lend a familiar, worn feel to this top. A special touch- faded graphics encircle the hem.

The Lace-Up Tall Boot:

A fan favorite, the Belhaven (D87082) women's leather riding boot is a tall lace up with iconic H-D appeal and classic heritage styling. A top to bottom locking zipper lets the long laces do the talking.

A little-bit higher now:

The Ludwell (D83831) gives you that Harley lift, both in body and spirit. A chunky styled 4-inch heel supporting a 5.5-inch shaft with an ankle strap below the classic Bar & Shield. I think these boots were pulled right out of Gemma's closet.

Brighten things up:

When it comes to jewelry and Harley-Davidson, MOD rules the road. The Milestone Locket Collection are stainless steal lockets that house a beautiful assortment of charms and backplates that can be customized for every type of woman out there.

Essential for Layering:

Perfectly faded with raw-edges for a worn-in look, the Genuine Pullover Hoodie (99100-17VW) sports twill tape trim around the hood and lacing on the cuffs. The traditional Bar & Shield logo has that distressed look for a vintage vibe.

The quintessential Leather Jacket:

A jacket so epic, it's been 115 years in the making. This Women's 115th Anniversary Leather Jacket (98010-18VW) has hints of blue stitching and contrasting underlay that complement the design details and colors of the 115th Anniversary motorcycles. Of course this jacket is more than good looking- it's road ready.

Top it Off:

This classy women's flat top hat (99421-18VW)gets an update to mark the H-D 115th. It stylishly combos with mesh panels and rivets for contrasting texture. Bonus: shimmering metallic embroidery to catch the eye.

The Future is so Bright, You Gotta:

See the world from a new lens with Tori by Wylie X (HATOR01). Beauty- with bling in the right places, and brains- meets ANSI requirements.