That’s right Blog Fans…after 18 years at my good college buddy’s home in Calgary, Alberta – Canada…my beloved 1999 Harley-Davidson Dyna Wide Glide…that cool-lookin’ FXDWG has come back home to San Diego, California – USA.
Full exciting story, including the cross-border, customs bureaucracy process of getting this bike back state side, is coming soon...big time memories over the years around this custom motorcycle will also be featured…hang on!
More blog content coming soon…hang on!
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Motorcycle Marc – June 2021
Got a favorite motorcycle that has changed your life…a bike that you absolutely love? Let me know and I could feature your bike and your story on one of my future blog posts…Send me a note in the comments below. Thank you.
Hey…hang on…we are trying to figure it all out…Bottom-line, it will be an epic ride…
The plan is for my brother and family-members riding team to meet up in Saskachewan, Canada…head on west to Alberta and British Columbia then we’ll head south into Washington State with stops to see a friend at Sound Harley Davidson in Marysville, WA and then explore the Cascade Mountain Loop…should be EPIC!
Then, the team will split up and head east to Ontario and I’ll head on south to Southern California…All told, we’ll ride some 6,000 miles…9,650 kilometers….Wow!
Bottom-line, this will be an amazing roadtrip for all involved both on the road and online.
This coronavirus has put a hold on our usual “normal life” of riding around exploring America, Canada and the World. Let’s just say we ain’t happy about it.
Stay tuned..me and my riding brother…we are still trying to figure out if we can get a roadtrip in this year
#BBRWorldRide….Where to in 2020???
The Beaulieu Brothers…Marc (61) & Roch (59). Been riding motorbikes for over 45 years…we ain’t about to let a piss-ant virus stop us now. This said, we are wearing face masks and practicing social distancing per the CDC Guidelines.
FYI – The original BBR2020 annual roadtrip was going to have us ride some 5,000 miles (8,046 km) exploring the western northwest United States and western Canada…We were looking forward to a stop at Sound Harley-Davidson in Marysville, Washington to meet up with an old friend… could still happen…? Might even trade-in my 2014 Indian Chieftain for a new Harley-Davidson Street Glide or CVO Bagger while at the dealership…:)
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally…truly a “WOW” experience.
Imagine if you will, Sturgis, South Dakota, a small, quiet mid-western town of 6,500 people, growing to a metropolis of party-ready bikers totaling 500,000+ in a week’s time. Unbelievable right?
The Rally this year is being held from August 8th to August 14th, 2016. It is sure to be the biggest and baddest gathering of motorcycle riders anywhere.
When you go, I highly recommend riding around the legendary Black Hills and to several of my favorite American landmarks, including Mount Rushmore, Devils Tower, the Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park.
Want to ride a different road daily, then click on the following link for the Top 13 Motorcycle Rides Around Sturgis…read on for a taste of my favorite destinations around the area…
Devils Tower, Wyoming
DEVILS TOWER – AMERICA’S FIRST NATIONAL MONUMENT (1906). Northeast Wyoming. Sacred monument to the Lakota and other Indian tribes from the area.
Granite Spires along Needles Highway.
The Needles Highway.
Lots of scenery to absorb on this beautiful ride…in fact, it’s one of my favorites.
Narrow, winding roads make their way up the hillsides taking you through one-lane tunnels and past huge needle-like stones.
There are overlooks along the 14-mile ride that offer spectacular visions of canyons, cliffs and buttes. Take this road to see the Black Hills area at its best.
Mount Rushmore.
There’s nothing like seeing this monument from the seat of your motorcycle. The faces of four American Presidents are literally carved out of the granite mountain. Mount Rushmore is only 17 miles from Rapid City, South Dakota. One can’t help but feel a strong sense of national pride at this monument. Truly an awesome feat of engineering art.
THE MOUNT RUSHMORE NATIONAL MEMORIAL.- Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln.
The Crazy Horse Memorial.
The Crazy Horse Memorial is a mountain monument under construction on privately held land in Custer County, South Dakota. It depicts Crazy Horse, an Oglala Lakota warrior, riding a horse and pointing into the distance. Click here for more info from Wikipedia.
The statue in the forefront of the photo below is literally being carved into the mountain you see in the background. Truly an amazing undertaking and a spectacular memorial to the brave Indian warrior, Crazy Horse.
CRAZY HORSE MEMORIAL. World’s Largest Carving. Black Hills, South Dakota
Custer State Park
Custer State Park is South Dakota’s largest and first state park and game preserve. It is named after Lt. Colonel George Armstrong Custer. The infamous Custer, along with 210 of his men, died in 1876 at the battle of Little Big Horn.
Custer State Park offers great scenery and one of the largest herds of free-roaming buffalo. The Wildlife Loop Road, about 20 miles long, had plenty of pull-off areas to take in the great scenery.
THE AMERICAN BUFFALO. In the mid 1800s, covered the American Plains numbering in the tens of millions.
The Hills Around Deadwood, South Dakota.
RIDING THE HILLS AROUND DEADWOOD, SOUTH DAKOTA.
SALOON NUMBER 10…Most famous watering hole in Deadwood, South Dakota.
Saloon #10 – This famous saloon and museum is where Wild Bill Hickock bit the dust on August 2, 1876.
The legend of this frontiersman and gunfighter, Wild Bill Hickock, is sure an interesting one. Click here to read all about it.
My Bottom Line.
My rides to Sturgis, South Dakota over the years have always been exciting and truly amazing. My daily rides exploring the Badlands and the region around Sturgis, spectacular! Meeting up with old friends and meeting new ones, a bonus.
The Sturgis Experience is a must see for all serious motorcyclists and travelers…Add it to your bucket list I tell yas.
Ride Safe Out There.
Have fun in Sturgis everyone!
Note: Copyrights and Trademarks are the property of their owners. No infringement intended. Always wear a approved helmet. Never ride under the influence. Special thanks to Nate Wek at South Dakota Public Broadcasting (SDPB) for compiling the Top 13 Rides information from the good folks at “Ultimate Motorcycle Rides“. This info has been invaluable to me and my blog fans as we plan daily rides around Sturgis.
STURGIS! The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally…you gotta see it to believe it!
Imagine this, Sturgis, South Dakota, a small, quiet mid-western town of 6,500 people, growing to a metropolis of party-ready bikers totaling 750,000+ in a week’s time. Unbelievable right?
The Rally, in its 75th year, was held from August 3 to August 9, 2015…and I was there. According to reports, it was the biggest and baddest gathering of motorcycle riders of all time. Best estimates are between 750,000 – 1,000,000 attendees.
During Sturgis week, I visited the legendary Black Hills and rode to several of my favorite American landmarks, including Mount Rushmore, Devils Tower, the Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park.
Click on the following link if you want to quickly find out about the Top 13 Motorcycle Rides Around Sturgis…read on for a taste of my Sturgis 2015 adventure.
The Motorcycle – A Custom Bagger from Victory Motorcycles.
I rode a 2015 Victory Magnum to the rally this year. It’s the industry’s coolest, out-of-the-box custom bagger. Meaning, it comes out of the factory looking like the owner added all kinds of aftermarket accessories to it…like pullback ape hanger bars, a 21-inch front wheel, a cool looking low windshield, a great audio sound system, a powerful motor, a sleek seat and custom-designed footrests.
Just to make sure the factory Magnum would fit me perfectly for my 2,000+ mile ride to Sturgis, I rode to my local dealership in El Cajon for some advice on taking this bike on a long distance ride.
They team recommended I switch the low-cut factory windshield to the Flare Windshield from Klock Werks and that we replace the short 6-inch Ape Bars with Victory’s cool 12-inch Apes. This turned out to be an excellent recommendation which made the bike totally comfortable for my 6′ foot frame.
Photo below shows the new bars and windshield on the Magnum.
THE VICTORY MAGNUM…ROADTRIP READY. MJBphoto. Note: It was good while it lasted. Victory Motorcycles shut down operations on January 9, 2017. Click image for formal announcement. Wow! Sure caught me by surprise.
I left San Diego, California on August 1, 2015 and enjoyed heavy rain, thunder and lightning for the next three days as I explored Utah and Wyoming…challenging riding but still fun! The Magnum ran well throughout the wet weather and was a real road hugger on wet roads. The front fairing, teamed up with the Klock Werks windshield, did a fine job keeping rain away from me.
DOES MY RAIN SUIT MAKE ME LOOK FAT? My rain suit saved my ride and kept me dry throughout the roadtrip. The first 1,000 miles through downpours…my 2015 Sturgis ride was a wet one.
The map below shows the states I rode through on my way to South Dakota.
You meet all kinds of people on road trips...
THE RUSSIANS – You meet the nicest Russians on America’s roads. On a 6-month world tour, they were so excited to be attending Sturgis’s 75th Anniversary.
THE CHAPLEAU RIDERS. You meet the nicest Canadians too.
Here are the highlights of my 2015 Sturgis Ride.
Devils Tower, Wyoming
DEVILS TOWER – AMERICA’S FIRST NATIONAL MONUMENT (1906). Northeast Wyoming. Sacred monument to the Lakota and other Indian tribes from the area.
Granite Spires along Needles Highway.
The Needles Highway.
Lots of scenery to absorb on this beautiful ride…in fact, it’s one of my favorites.
Narrow, winding roads make their way up the hillsides taking you through one-lane tunnels and past huge needle-like stones.
There are overlooks along the 14-mile ride that offer spectacular visions of canyons, cliffs and buttes. Take this road to see the Black Hills area at its best.
Mount Rushmore.
There’s nothing like seeing this monument from the seat of your motorcycle. The faces of four American Presidents are literally carved out of the granite mountain. Mount Rushmore is only 17 miles from Rapid City, South Dakota. One can’t help but feel a strong sense of national pride at this monument. Truly an awesome feat of engineering art.
THE MOUNT RUSHMORE NATIONAL MEMORIAL.- Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln.
The Crazy Horse Memorial.
The Crazy Horse Memorial is a mountain monument under construction on privately held land in Custer County, South Dakota. It depicts Crazy Horse, an Oglala Lakota warrior, riding a horse and pointing into the distance. Click here for more info from Wikipedia.
The statue in the forefront of the photo below is literally being carved into the mountain you see in the background. Truly an amazing undertaking and a spectacular memorial to the brave Indian warrior, Crazy Horse.
CRAZY HORSE MEMORIAL. World’s Largest Carving. Black Hills, South Dakota
Custer State Park
Custer State Park is South Dakota’s largest and first state park and game preserve. It is named after Lt. Colonel George Armstrong Custer. The infamous Custer, along with 210 of his men, died in 1876 at the battle of Little Big Horn.
Custer State Park offers great scenery and one of the largest herds of free-roaming buffalo. The Wildlife Loop Road, about 20 miles long, had plenty of pull-off areas to take in the great scenery.
THE AMERICAN BUFFALO. In the mid 1800s, covered the American Plains numbering in the tens of millions.
The Hills Around Deadwood, South Dakota.
RIDING THE HILLS AROUND DEADWOOD, SOUTH DAKOTA.
SALOON NUMBER 10…Most famous watering hole in Deadwood, South Dakota.
Saloon #10 – This famous saloon and museum is where Wild Bill Hickock bit the dust on August 2, 1876.
The legend of this frontiersman and gunfighter, Wild Bill Hickock, is sure an interesting one. Click here to read all about it.
The Bottom Line.
My ride from San Diego, California to Sturgis, South Dakota, despite a lot of rain, thunder and lightning, was amazing. My week in Sturgis and my daily rides exploring the region were spectacular. Meeting up with old friends and meeting new ones was a bonus.
The Victory Magnum handled beautifully. This is a comfortable and sleek looking custom bagger with a powerful engine (The Freedom 106). The Victory Magnum is one good looker. I recommend you take a serious look at this motorcycle if you are considering a custom bagger. It’s the coolest, factory custom on the market today in my opinion.
Ride Safe Out There.
Thank you for reading my blog folks. – Motorcycle Marc
Note: Copyrights and Trademarks are the property of their owners. No infringement intended. All references, images, technical data and general information relating to Victory Motorcycles is the property of Polaris Industries, Inc., unless specifically noted otherwise. Always wear a approved helmet. Never ride under the influence. Motorcycle Marc’s Magnum Motorcycle provided by the Victory Motorcycle Company. Ride sponsorship provided by Indian Motorcycles of El Cajon, California. Special thanks to Nate Wek at South Dakota Public Broadcasting (SDPB) for compiling the Top 13 Rides information from the good folks at “Ultimate Motorcycle Rides“. This info was invaluable to me as I planned my daily rides around Sturgis.
Few things in life get my excitement level up like planning for a big motorcycle roadtrip…
Note – Blog Post in progress. — MJB
This year’s BBR will have us cover just over 4,000 miles beginning in upstate New York then heading to the tip of eastern Canada then back into New England USA and with a final leg way up north in northern Ontario.
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Day 1 – We meet up in Niagara Falls/Buffalo, New York
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Off to visit a sister in Ottawa, Ontario.
Few things bring back childhood memories like our Mom’s french meat pie known in French as “tourtiere”. Sister Rose inherited our Mom’s great cooking skill and makes the perfect French Tourtiere for us during our stop-over at her home in Ottawa.
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On to Quebec City to visit another sister.
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Riding towards Canada’s Atlantic Coast…the incredible beauty of the Gaspe Peninsula.
On the way via Route 132 which tracks south of the massive St. Lawrence River, we’ll make stops in the St. Eusebe-Cabano area to visit family members.
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Once around the Gaspe Peninsula, we’ll head to visit yet another sister in Moncton, New Brunswick.
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The spectacular Cabot Trail ride…
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After cruising around Cape Breton, we’ll ride through Nova Scotia towards Saint John, New Brunswick…where two more sisters will get to feed us. 🙂
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Back into the USA – New England region to visit family.
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The last leg of BBR2019 will have us heading north into logging country.
After enjoying the company of our cousins around Lawrence, MA, we’ll ride out through New Hampshire and Vermont back into Canada looking to head north on Provincial Highway 17 towards our home town of Chapleau in northern Ontario.
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Long live the Beaulieu Brothers Rides…
Ride Safe Out There,
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Marc & Roch Beaulieu
About Motorcycle Marc – I’m a motoblogger, some say a motorcycle evangelist, an industry influencer, ambassador and sponsor. I prefer to ride motorcycles but when I can’t ride I blog about it. Since 2009, I’ve developed a strong, dedicated following of thousands of gearheads, motorheads, biker-wannabes and 2-wheeled adventurers who love motorcycles and everything motorcycle-related. Welcome to my world – Marc J. Beaulieu (MJB)
Note: Copyrights and Trademarks are the property of their owners. No infringement ever intended. Some of the material for this blog was gathered from numerous articles and websites available in the public domain. Manufacturer Names, Logos, Photos/Images, Websites, Links and Model Information are Registered Trademarks of the Manufacturer and/or Organizations represented. Also, note that specifications and any information in this blog is subject to change without notice. No representation of accuracy is made.
BEAULIEU BROTHERS RIDE…Big blue skies, breathtaking natural scenery, John Wayne’s wild west and the rich history of Route 66…Read on…
BBR2016 had me riding my Chieftain out of San Diego, California early one Saturday morning back in June…Destination: 375 miles eastward to Phoenix, Arizona to meet up with my brother Rocky.
Rocky had just completed 2,000 miles riding with his wife and friends around Arizona, Utah and Colorado. He and I would start the second leg of our Beaulieu Brothers Ride and explore the American Southwest for another 2,500 miles. His motorbike of choice this year was a new BMW K1600 GTL Tourer from Eagle Rider Motorcycle Rentals.
Roch E. Beaulieu – Adventure Rider. The Other Half of the Beaulieu Brothers Rides.
I must say that the BMW K 1600 GTL is one high-end, classy touring machine. It comes with a 6-cylinder engine that is all power all the time…160 hp, 129 ft-pd of torque (1649cc)…driven by a 6-speed tranny and shaft drive. This is one smooth, luxury motorcycle. I knew that I would need to push my Indian Chieftain to its upper limits to keep up with my younger brother on this BBR.
The ride through northern Arizona
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Arizona is one of America’s most interesting states to explore. The state is best known for the Grand Canyon, the Navajo and Apache Nations, Monument Valley, artsy Sedona and Route 66 lore. We tried to see as much of it as we could on this roadtrip.
Flagstaff, Arizona was founded in 1876. It’s an impressive big pine mountain town on the original Route 66…today known as I-40. The railroad reached Flagstaff in 1881. The Mother Road, as Route 66 is affectionally known, passes right through the center of Flagstaff. Route 66 was 90 years old in 2016. The city takes special pride in its Route 66 heritage.
Winslow, Arizona…a Bucket List Item for us
We rode into Winslow, Arizona all excited to experience this historic railroad town on Route 66 made famous by one of our favorite rock bands, The Eagles.
Our first stop was at the Old Trails Museum on Kinsley Avenue. The museum is full of interesting exhibits featuring tales and stories of Indian culture, pioneers and explorers, cowboys and ranchers, traders and includes a full history of the Santa Fe Railroad company.
We then headed for the “corner” in downtown Winslow. In 1949, the daily number of automobiles and motorcycles passing through Winslow averaged 3,800…that’s 3,800 vehicles per day! Most of the vehicles were traveling west to California.
Imagine if you will…the hustle, the excitement of being on Route 66 and the road noise as traveler’s passed through this town. America was on the move after WWII ended and Route 66 was like a dream for many seeking fame and fortune out west.
Route 66 in Winslow, Arizona. Closest thing to Americana we could ever experience. The Eagle’s famous song verse reads; “Standin’ on the corner in Winslow, Arizona, such a fine sight to see. It’s a girl, my Lord, in a Flatbed Ford, slowin’ down to take a look at me.”
The Standin’ On The Corner Park is located at the intersection of Kinsley and Second Streets in downtown Winslow.
Takin’ It Easy on the corner in Winslow, AZ
There’s a bronze statue and mural depicting the story behind the famous 1970s Eagles song, “Take It Easy”. The song’s music was written by the late Glenn Frey. The lyrics were written by Jackson Browne. The song’s success literally put Winslow, Arizona on the map.
The park area is paved with inscribed bricks purchased by fans who wanted a permanent place “on the corner”. Look for the Beaulieu Brothers Ride 2016 brick when you visit.
The White Mountains of Arizona – Apache Country
The White Mountain Indian Reservation is home to 25 lakes and 400 miles of streams full of rainbow and brown trout. Mount Baldy is the tallest mountain on the reservation at 11,590 feet. It’s a wilderness paradise.
There are over 1,000 campsites for adventurers to enjoy. Hunters love the place. According to one of the roadside plaques, the largest elk ever taken was on White Mountain and 8 of the 10 largest elks listed in the Safari Club International Record Book were taken in Arizona’s White Mountain range.
Growing up in lumber country, we were fascinated by the area’s big logging history and ongoing lumber industry. Â The Apache Timber Company, which has the logging rights to the area, Â is one of the top 50 lumber companies in the U.S.
Rocky admiring the scenic breathtaking beauty of Arizona’s White Mountains…
The Great Monument Valley
Monument Valley extends into both southern Utah and northern Arizona. The valley covers almost 92,000 acres and sits 5,600 feet above sea level.
  “Monument Valley is the place where God put the West.†~ John Wayne
Known as Navajo Nation’s Monument Valley Park, it’s a truly magical place. The landscape simply overwhelms the senses for both its unique beauty and its vast size. The towering sandstone outcrops are masterpieces towering 400 to 1,000 feet. The formations are simply out of this world.
My Indian Chieftain overlooking the 8th Wonder of the World, Monument Valley.
This section of the Navajo Indian Nation contains some of the most picturesque and spectacular scenery in the world. Riding through this special place on a motorcycle puts you in absolute awe of the vastness of this native land.
Near the small village of Mexican Hat, Utah on I-163.
The monolith shaped rock formations stand strong high above the desert floor, the beauty and enormity of the rock pinnacles, spires and buttes blow your mind. The place simply amazes your senses.
Travel Tip: Add Monument Valley to your bucket list. This is one of those regions in the USA you must see before you die.
Twin Rocks Bluff – unique Utah History
Founded by Mormon pioneers in 1879, the community of Bluff, Utah makes for an interesting stop. We are talking remote and desolate ranching territory just north east of the entrance into Monument Valley. We visited the Twin Rocks Trading Company cafe for breakfast before entering into the Valley.
The Navajo Twin Rocks…The Twin Rocks Trading Post in Bluff Utah offers handcrafted Native American and Southwest art. Good food and good service in the cafe too.
John Wayne and Director John Ford made Monument Valley famous.
Legend has it that Ford discovered John Wayne while he was working as a propman around movie sets for then western cowboy star, Tom Mix.
John Ford was a superbly talented film director. He is renowned both for Westerns such as John Wayne’s Stagecoach and The Searchers as well as adaptations of classic 20th-century American novels such as the film, The Grapes of Wrath.
One of my favorite JW mancave posters.
John “Duke” Wayne movies more than any others, have made Monument Valley famous. The “Duke†made five movies there in his lifetime, “Stagecoach†(1939), “Fort Apache†(1948), “Rio Grande†(1950), “The Searchers†(1956) and “She Wore a Yellow Ribbon†(1959).
John Wayne (1907-1979) was one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. My movie hero, died of lung cancer in 1979. He is buried at Pacific View Memorial Park, Newport Beach, California. Look for his bronze headstone plaque. He is laid to rest on the grassy slope called the “Bayview Terrace”.
Today, the John Wayne Cancer Foundation is one of America’s most important educational and fund raisers for cancer research.
Exploring New Mexico
New Mexico has a diverse terrain encompassing the Chihuahuan Desert and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Nicknamed the Land of Enchantment, New Mexico is known for its gorgeous high desert landscapes, good roads, artist towns and native culture.
Los Alamos is the site of the secret Manhattan Project that developed the world’s first atomic weapon during World War II. Can you imagine living the life of the scientists charged with this world-changing task in the 1940s?
Today, the Los Alamos National Laboratory is a highly secure U.S. government lab that is still responsible for America’s nuclear arsenal.
Marker at Four Corners Monument – Border of Colorado, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico
The Four Corners Monument is located on Native American land off US Highway 160. Both the Navajo and Ute people live in the Four Corners area.
We learned more about Native Americans, their cultures and their way of life while riding in this area.
This region has been home to native peoples for hundreds of years. Archaeologists have recorded numerous ancient Puebloan sites dating prior to AD 1300 throughout the Four Corners area.
We stopped for an old style shave at Jeffrey’s Barber Shop near Penasco, New Mexico
Took time for a relaxing, old-style shave on the backroads near Taos, New Mexico.
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Southwest Colorado…simply amazing!
Our BBR adventure for 2016 originally began as a bucket list item to visit the True Grit movie locations to see where the Duke filmed his famous movie scenes.
Much of the 1969 western movie, “True Gritâ€, was filmed in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado and the movie lead to John Wayne’s only Academy Award. The amazing natural scenery of Colorado’s southwest corner was a huge part of the film so we wanted to capture it all on the seat of our motorcycles. Scheduling issues prevented me from joining Rocky on this segment of BBR2016 so it stays on my bucket list of rides to check off in the future.
Until the next BBR…
My brother and me, we love the excitement and family bonding moments of our 2-wheeled adventures. It reminds us of the incredible freedoms we enjoyed growing up riding Enduros/Scramblers in the remote lumbercamps of northern Ontario, Canada during the 1970s. Riding gives us quality time together once a year just to be brothers. Stay tuned for more riding adventures from the Beaulieu Brothers in the future.
Ride Safe Out There.
Beaulieu Brothers Marc (57) and Rocky (55). Apache Country, Arizona – June 2016
About Motorcycle Marc – I’m a just a motoblogger, some say a motorcycle industry influencer. Since 2009, I’ve developed a strong, dedicated following of gearheads, motorheads, biker-wannabes and 2-wheeled adventurers who love motorcycles and everything motorcycle-related. Welcome to my world – Marc J. Beaulieu (MJB)
About Roch E. Beaulieu – Roch E. Beaulieu is one of Ontario, Canada’s top Financial Wealth Management and Retirement Planners. His company, Financial Planning Logic, advises individuals and families in the development of successful retirement income plans and insurance protection plans. – Roch E. Beaulieu (REB) – www.financiallogic.ca
Bonus BBR Photo…Sierra Mountains on the way to Sturgis, South Dakota from San Francisco, California…BBR2001..16 years ago.
BBR2001 – San Francisco, CA to Toronto, Ontario via the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
Note: Copyrights and Trademarks are the property of their owners. No infringement ever intended. Some of the material for this blog was gathered from numerous articles and websites available in the public domain. Manufacturer Names, Logos, Photos/Images, Websites and Model Information are Registered Trademarks of the Manufacturer. Also, note that specifications and any information in this blog is subject to change without notice. No representation of accuracy is made.
The Colosseum in Rome. Scooters were everywhere.
Amalfi Coast…nothing short of spectacular riding. Scenery…takes your breath away.
If you go…consider a guided motorcycle tour to really see and feel the true spectacular beauty of Italy.
The “Hear The Road” Motorcycle Tours company is becoming well-known and respected for its unique Italian Guided Tours.
As a guest, you will be lead by professional Tour Leader Enrico Grassi, founder of Hear the Road Tours. Enrico has spent hundreds of hours developing the travel routes, the cities to visit, the sites to see as well as the hotels and food options key to making this kind of an adventure something to remember and cherish for a lifetime. It’s the kind of experience you’d expect from Global Basecamps and similar groups, to be honest!
The Dolomites Mountains in the northeastern Alps of Italy. Considered one of the most dramatic and scenic mountain ranges in the world.
From all I’ve heard and read, guided motorcycle tours by Enrico Grassi’s company have everything you need for your great Italian experience: an English speaking Tour leader, the best route to ride on, comfortable accommodation, great food throughout the roadtrip, beautiful historical cities to explore, interesting venues to visit, and a support van for your luggage.
A special note about my favorite Italian Wine.
Be forewarned that one cannot visit Italy without indulging in the country’s world-class selection of wines so you want to give yourself plenty of time to visit wineries and vineyards. And, it goes without saying that you should arrange for safe, independent transportation as you hop from one winery to another.
Our favorite winery visited in 2013 and to this day is the classic winery from Fratelli Saraceni – Lorenzo and Matteo Saraceni, well-known and admired Italian hoteliers and restaurateurs, founded Fratelli Saraceni.
Two generations of the Saraceni family have grown their business from a single restaurant (I Tre Pini) in the heart of the Tuscan hills into a world renowned hospitality brand recognized all over the world for its distinguished and historical venues, its embracing service and its exclusive high quality dishes based on family recipes.
Breathtaking scenery all over Tuscany. Just look at these beautiful sunny fields.
Our family visit to Libero’s restaurant (I Tri Pini) and winery (Saraceni) in 2013 was simple luxury. Great hospitality wrapped around great local foods and spectacular wines delivered with enthusiastic and friendly service…an experience me and my family will not forget.
We were honored to meet Libero and his children back in the busy kitchen of their world class restaurant, the I Tri Pini Restaurant.
The Saraceni’s Tuscan wine collection is truly extraordinary. A true representation of the typical characteristics of the grapes and the terroir from Tuscany, the Chianti region and Prosecco regions of Veneto.
Lorenzo and Matteo were affectionately inspired to name the collection after their father, Libero. The Libero Collection is composed of quality wines with fresh and fruity tones that are each identified by their unique and individual details.
So, as you ponder where your travels and great motorcycle adventures should take you in 2016, I highly recommend you add Italy to your wish list of destinations. You will be inspired to live it up for sure.
Beautiful Lake Como in northern Italy.
Ride Safe Out There.
Lake Como, Italy — Motorcycle Marc
Note: I don’t accept financial consideration for product/service/travel reviews but gladly accept keeping the products reviewed for my personal use or having the products donated to a charity in my name. Reviews are my own opinions. There’s no influence or funny stuff. I either like the product or I don’t. Use products/services/travels reviewed at your own risk. Copyrights and Trademarks are the property of their owners. No infringement ever intended. Photos are either my own or purchased directly from various photo services. See footer of this blog/website for more information. #RideSafeOutThere
AMAZING KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA…See this amazing country from the seat of an Enduro Motorcycle.Â
The Kingdom of Cambodia was a powerful and prosperous empire that flourished and dominated almost all of inland Southeast Asia during the 9th and 14th century. That period was known at the Angkor Period. Today, the kingdom offers an exciting culture, extraordinary natural beauty and has become a favorite tourist destination for adventurers of all types.
Cambodia is predominantly Buddhist with 90% of the population being Theravada Buddhist, 1% Christian and the majority of the remaining population follow Islam, Atheism, Oranimism. See Wikipedia for additional information on the culture of Cambodia.
THE BUDDHIST TEMPLE ANGKOR WAT. Siem Reap, Cambodia. Click temple image for additional, fascinating information. Source: Wikipedia
Angkor Wat is a huge temple area consisting of miles of different sites. They were constructed around 1000 years ago (half a millennium before Columbus “discovered” America).  Amazing place! It is the largest religious monument in the world and a World Heritage site. An interesting tidbit is that the movine, Tomb Raider, was filmed at Angkor Wat.
If you go to Cambodia…
In addition to some amazing history, Cambodia’s landscape spans low-lying plains, the Mekong Delta, mountains and the Gulf of Thailand coastline.
Phnom Penh, is the country’s capital. In northwest Cambodia, you’ll find the ruins of Angkor Wat mentioned above. It’s a massive stone temple complex built during the Khmer Empire and a must see.
There’s an exciting motorcycle touring company out there.
GO WHERE MOTORCYCLE RIDERS GO FOR BIG ADVENTURES.
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Roads in the Kingdom of Cambodia are in the best condition between the months of November through June. Rivers and lakes are at their highest water levels between August and November. Weather is coolest between November and February. Their famous monsoon rains come dropping down between July and September.
DIRT ROAD IN THE CAMBODIAN JUNGLE.
Book and Save with my special Promo Code…MJB016
CLICK ON BANNER TO BOOK A TOUR. USE PROMO CODE MJB016.
Want more info on the Kingdom of Cambodia? Also go to CEA’s Facebook Page and CEA’s Twitter Handle.
Ride Safe Out There.
Thank you for reading my blog. – Booking 2017 events & blog content now. Limited engagements available so contact me asap. — Motorcycle Marc
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Note: Copyrights and Trademarks are the property of their owners. No infringement is ever intended. Renter(s) accept all risks of motorcycle rental and motorcycle tour(s). Motorcycle Rental Agreement subject to individual rental company contract terms and conditions. No representation of Touring Company Services or Promises are made on this page or anywhere else in this blog. Always wear an approved helmet, rider and passenger safety gear. Do not drink alcohol or do drugs while riding/driving any motor vehicle.  A special thank you to Wikipedia for their information sharing online library. See footer area of this website for more information. Motorcycling while exciting, is inherently dangerous. Ride at your own risk.  #RideSafeOutThere
DREAM RIDE ROMANIA! Imagine riding one of the most exciting roads in the world…the Transfagarasan Highway in Romania.
The country of Romania in Eastern Europe is home to the Transylvanian Alps. There you will find the most crooked road in all of Europe known as the Transfagarasan Highway. This mountain highway snakes through the Transfagarasan Pass (6,700 feet above sea level). It’s 56 miles long and takes you to the highest peaks in the southern Carpathian Mountains.
The road is open only three months a year due to the high altitudes and snow packs. Exploring this road with the riding pros at Adventure Motorcycle Tours will blow your mind from all I’m hearing. You’ll cross over 830 narrow bridges, pass by 27 viaducts and lean into dozens of hairpin curves. And as a bonus, the ride comes with picturesque villages, beautiful scenery and you’ll get to meet the friendliest Europeans anywhere on the continent.
Riders Paradise. The Transfagarasan Highway in Romania.
Many of the riders who experience this road also participate in a motorcycle tour through the southern part of Eastern Europe. The team at Adventure Motorcycle Tours offers a fully guided roadtrip that will take you through nine countries in Eastern Europe. – Romania, Hungary, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, Macedonia and Servia.
Additionally, the company offers private motorcycle tours with first class accommodations, including rentals of your choice of motorcycle. Ask them about touring around Devil’s Valley, Hell’s Valley, the Ponorului Citadels and the Turzii Gorges.
Panoramic view of the Transfagarasan Highway in Romania
If you are an Enduro/Scrambler fan, the company offers a seven day tour that explores trails, forest meadows and many rolling hills rarely seen by the general public. You’ll get a nice feel for the Carpathian Mountains on this motorcycle roadtrip.
The Legend of Dracula, the Vampire.
Romania – Source: World Atlas Map Website
Did you know that Dracula originates from Romania? Dracula (Vlad Tepes), the scary legend goes, was born in December 1431 in the fortress of Sighisoara, Romania. Click the following link to see the Five Things to Love About Sighisoara.
Dracula is of Gaelic origin (Drac Ullah) and translates to meaning “bad blood”. In Romanian, Dracul stands for Devil or Dragon.
Vampires are believed to hang around crossroads on St. George’s Day, April 23, and the eve of St. Andrew, November 29.
The area is also home to Bram Stoker’s novel, Dracula. It’s easy to get caught up in the tale while riding around the area’s winding roads, dark ancient forests and over the spectacular mountain passes.
Dracula – a very interesting tidbit to add to your motorcycle tour as you traverse Transylvania. Click here for the full Dracula story from the Romania Tourism website, Romania Natural and Cultural.
The team at Adventure Motorcycle Tours – great ambassadors for their beautiful country.
Romania’s Adventure Motorcycle Tours – Transylvania Live has garnered a strong reputation for motorcycle know-how and riding expertise over the years. Press coverage and testimonials about the Adventure Motorcycle Tours company speaks for itself. All very positive and encouraging.
Beautiful Romania. Natural landscapes and lost-in-time villages everywhere.
If you go…you will find an exceptionally vital and creative traditional culture. This could well be the motorcycle tour of a lifetime for you so contact the company for all the details you’ll need for your great adventure.
Ride Safe Out There.
About Motorcycle Marc – I’m a motoblogger. Some say a key motorcycle industry influencer. I prefer to ride motorcycles but when I can’t ride, I blog about it. Since 2009, I’ve developed a strong, loyal following of thousands of gearheads, motorheads, biker-wannabes and 2-wheeled adventurers who love motorcycles and everything motorcycle-related. Welcome to my world. #RideSafeOutThere – Marc J. Beaulieu (MJB)
Note1: Copyrights and Trademarks are the property of their owners. No infringement ever intended. Photos/images used with permission or sourced from the public domain.
Note2: Renter(s) accept all risks of motorcycle rental. Motorcycle Rental Agreement subject to all Motorcycle Tours and Rental contract terms and conditions. Always wear a helmet and approved rider safety gear. Do not drink alcohol or do drugs while riding/driving any motor vehicle. Motorcycles are inherently dangerous. Double check your insurance coverages to make sure you are covered adequately while renting motorcycles in a foreign country. Ride at your own risk. #RideSafeOutThere
January is the perfect month to reflect, recalibrate and take a fresh look at where we go from here. Let’s reflect on the times for a moment.
No doubt about it. These are different times.
Lone Biker Reflecting On 2014
Seems everyone is rushing to get somewhere or to achieve something. Add in an overload of negative media, unlimited internet access, fierce competition, a pop culture gone wild, a weakened economy, politicians who lie and, it becomes almost impossible to hear yourself think let alone try to live the life you’ve always dreamed of.
Here’s a commentary, attributed to various authors, on our times worth noting as we reflect and think about where to focus in this new year.
Something To Ponder – “The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.”
“We’ve learned how to make a living, but not a life. We’ve added years to life not life to years. We’ve been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We’ve done larger things, but not better things.
We’ve cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We’ve conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We’ve learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.”
So what to do about what seems to be crazy times?
LifeTip: Focus on what matters. Do what counts. Cherish your loved ones with all your heart.
Doing what you like to do really matters. It’s good for your soul. It helps you find purpose and fulfillment in your life. Get totally focused on what matters to you and your family in 2014. As the various authors went on to say in this commentary:
“Remember to spend time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever. Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side. Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn’t cost a cent. Remember, to say, ‘I love you’ to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you. Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again. Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind. And always remember, life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by those moments that take our breath away.” – Click here for attributions.
The first month of every year is the perfect time to recalibrate.
I like the way author, Marina Theodotou, spells it out about recalibration. “While hindsight is usually 20/20 she says, what would you have handled differently given the chance?”
What would you have handled differently given the chance last year?
“Time is our most scarce and valuable resource. We need to recalibrate our thoughts and actions so that we can use time well.”
“What would you tweak to reach a balance? Less work, more rest? Less Facebook, more books? Less worry, more meditation? Of course, whatever works well, you probably will chose to do more of. Whatever it is, now is the time to decide how much of your time you will spend on what.” Great advice here from Marina.
LifeTip: Simplify…Get rid of clutter. Get rid of debt.
There’s way too much unnecessary noise and clutter around us in my opinion. Much of it totally unnecessary. Consider transforming your life in 2014 to exactly the low-clutter, minimal distraction life you want.
Want to really improve your life? Do everything you can to pay off consumer debt and stay out of debt. Correspondingly, researching some of the different debt consolidation options out there can help you to manage your personal finances in a more efficient way. Although right now, you might be wondering, ‘what is debt consolidation?’ there is no telling what the future might hold and therefore the sooner you can work out a repayment plan for any outstanding debts, the better your chances of getting your debts paid off in a timely manner. Besides, nothing seems to kill life’s beautiful moments and one’s dreams like having too much debt. It’s an action strangler. It’s a freedom killer. Bottom line, if you can’t afford it, you can’t buy it. Accumulating massive debt is a surefire way to put yourself in a bad place. Click here to learn about the basics of getting out of debt.
So, what’s the best way to recharge?
LifeTip: Stop running. Slow down. Refresh. Go on a road trip.
There’s nothing like a motorcycle ride to recharge.
Hey, I understand that one has to work beyond their limits sometimes and we can even burn out from time to time but fact is, we need to learn how to recharge.
Learn to walk away. Ground yourself by taking a breather. Get out on your motorcycle. Feel the wind. Enjoy the freedom of the road.
Commit to getting really focused on those actions or things that charge you up. Avoid all the people, things and events that bring you down. Take a mental day off and do nothing for 24 hours. You’ll be amazed how refreshed and recharged you will feel.
The Big Tip…Pandemic or no Pandemic — Release your adventurous spirit…but, be safe out there. Wear a mask. Practice Social Distancing.
As adventure author, Jon Krakauer, said in his book, “Into The Wild” — “Nothing kills our adventurous spirit like being stuck to a life of security, conformity and conservatism. It may feel good, it may even give you peace of mind but in reality, one’s total focus on a secure future numbs or even kills our innate need for adventure. The joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences, and hence there is no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon, for each day to have a new and different sun.” So true…so true!
Ride Safe Out There.
Motorcycle Marc
Note: Copyrights and Trademarks are the property of their owners. No infringement is ever intended. See footer area of this website for more information.
So inspirational to gearheads like me.
To really understand “Herbert James Munro“, (aka: Burt Munro) you have to be a true motorcycle gearhead and a lover of the many adventures that come from the great sport of motorcycling. Yes, Burt Munro was nuts about motorcycle mechanics and the amazing things you can do with carburetors, pistons, heads and transmission gearing. His amazing knowledge of 2-wheelers, their motors and their design, allowed him to accomplish things on the speedway at Bonneville that were deemed impossible to us average mortals.
In 50 years of racing, he had some 250 motors blow up. With only basic tools and equipment, he used spectacular mechanical engineering ingenuity to rebuild his motors and do it all over again. Plus, at the age of 63, when most old farts start giving up, he set off to set speed records at the world-famous Bonneville Salt Flats. Truly an inspiration I tell yas. Truly inspirational. Read on!
Burt on his famed #35 Indian – 1962
Burt Munro: 03/25/1899 – 01/06/1978
Source: Adapted from RD Menzies Photo
The Indian Scout…now, there was a machine in it’s day.
Best I can tell…the Indian Scout came to life in 1920 with a 37 cubic inch engine
registered as a 606 cubic inch. Powerful for the day. The bike was built by the great Indian Motorcycle Company from 1920 to 1949. It was a very popular model. The original top speed of the Scout was 55
mph on its stock flathead motor.
Remarkably, Burt Munro figured out how to get it to a record 185.585 mph in 1967 by adding overhead cams to the original flathead V-Twin, machining his own cylinders from old gas pipes, casting his own pistons and fabricating connecting rods from a tractor axle…so the story goes according to author, Richard Menzies. Genius stuff. Absolutely genius mechanical construction skill.
Original 500-745cc V-Twin 1920 Indian Scout
The guy set a land-speed world record
Jay Leno comments on the original Burt Munro Special 35 Bonneville record setter bike. Click here to hear the engine sound and to see Jay admire this mechanical masterpiece. This is the actual bike that
set the record three times during the 1960’s for bikes under 1,000cc. Click original motor sound to hear it.
Amazing isn’t it?
Not sure who took this photo but I love it. Great pic of Burt and his record-setting #35 Indian machine.
The World’s Fastest Indian – movie excerpts for the fun of it all.
Movie excerpt #1: Timer speaking – 193.728 mph — 194.291 mph – the wobble. 201.851 – a new, amazing record. The crash on the Bonneville Salt Flats….Movie’s Writer and Director is Roger Donaldson (Super Job Roger!). Stars the great actor, Anthony Hopkins (perfectly cast for the role.). Includes Diane Ladd, Iain Rea, Christopher Lawford and many other
talented actors. Click here for the entire cast and crew list. You gotta see this movie to understand what I am talking about. You can buy the movie here.
Movie excerpt #2 here. Racing the “bikies” on the beach in New
Zealand…where he needs a push to get going then beats their buts but crashes
as he nears the last turn.
Movie excerpt #3 – can Burt handle the Munro Special on the Salt? 2nd gear results get him in. Troubled by wobble at around 180 mph.Click here for the official record of Burt Munro’s racing
accomplishments.
Tribute Video from the Indian Motorcycle Company.
Click on clock for video.
Now, for some rare pics of the man himself. Meet the real Mr. Burt Munro. One of the “Gods” of
motorcycle machinery and the great sport of motorcycling.
Burt Munro – 1899 – 1978 — RIP Sir. Source: Flickr.com – RD Menzies
For decades, Burt Munro’s speed racing accomplishments were little known outside a small, enthusiastic
group of Bonneville gearheads like me. That all changed when the movie, The World’s Fastest Indian, came to theatres and TV sets.
I want to personally thank film maker, Roger Donaldson and the Munro Family for bringing Mr. Burt Munro’s story to life. It’s one hell of a true story and needs to be told for all generations to enjoy.
Ride Safe Out There,
Motorcycle Marc
MJB - AMA member for 40+ years. 
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