From the Chapter Director

Transcription

1 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 1 Gold Wing Road Riders Association Chapter NH-G Laconia, NH THE LAKES REGION WINGS March 2016 Here we are at the beginning of March and I am so glad to have February behind us as I have had a tough time of it health wise this winter. We were all saddened at the loss of Chapter member Clayton Gordon and our sincerest condolences go out to Clay s widow Deb. For those of you that want to send a card to Deb, her address is 28 Warren Avenue, Wakefield, MA The Chapter sent a very nice flower arrangement to the funeral. Our 28th Year From the Chapter Director Now that it is March, that means that the Greenside Restaurant at the Lochmere Country Club is back open and excited that we will be coming back to them this month. We will start arriving for breakfast at 8AM, and the Chapter Gathering will start promptly at 9AM. Word has it that Assistant Region B Directors Kevin & Georgia LaBlonde will be attending our Gathering, so let s all show up with our green shirts and vests on. Welcome back to our Chapter Goodwill Ambassador Sir Charles Collins back from Maryland on Saturday the 5 th. We all missed you Charlie! As we do every spring, we will be taking orders for Chapter clothing, so at this month s gathering, see Chapter Store Keepers Bob & Kaye Hamel and they can order what you want and have it for the next gathering. Please bring your checkbooks so you can pay in advance. As we did last year, we will have Chapter Hats in stock and available as well as an assortment of Chapter Vest Rockers and Back Patches. New for sale this spring will be the Official Chapter NH-G Chapter Patch for the front of your vests. I should have the proof for you all to see at the Gathering on the 13 th. Turn your clocks Ahead Saturday Evening the 12th as Daylight Savings Time begins during the night. That way you ll be on time for the Chapter Gathering the next day. Mike Vaillancourt Chapter G Director We will be handing out the Spring Tire Raffle Tickets at this month s Gathering. Let s all jump in and help out because this is our only fund raiser for operational funds for the Chapter for the 2016 season. I was quite impressed with the turnout of bowlers that we had at Fun Spot on Saturday the 27 th. Bob Hamel made a call and the owners of the 405 Pub on Union Avenue in Laconia took really good care of us all. It was nice to see Ron and Suzie Black over from Chapter NH-E in Jaffery. Look for photos of that nights fun later on in this newsletter. I have included in this newsletter, the GWRRA T-CLOCK inspection Sheets for both motorcycle and trikes so you can get a head start on getting your bike ready to ride. Leading up to that, don t forget that the GWRRA Multi-Chapter Garage Day is at my house in Canterbury on May 14 th. Bring your Oil, Filter, and empty gallon jug for oil collection, and we will environmentally dispose of all the waste oil at Banks Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC in Concord. We will have a bag of crush washers on hand. See You all at the Greenside on the 13 th

2 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 2 NATIONAL, REGIONAL & N.H. DISTRICT STAFF GWRRA President, Anita Alkire president@gwrra.org Executive Director of GWRRA, Ray & Sandy Garris director@gwrra.org Region B Directors, Tom & Renee Washuk regionbdirectors.tom.renee@gmail.com /2016 Region B Couple of the Year Rich & Wendy Wirt (Rich) / (Wendy) sawdustman51@comcast.net N.H. District Directors, Ed & Denise Heath gwrranhdd@msn.com N.H. Asst. District Director, Dave & Bonnie Bolster gwrra.nh.a@gmail.com N.H. District Educator, Dick Bernier rbernier123@gmail.com District Memb. Enhancement Coord., Carole Sheehan carolesheehan.gwrra.nh.g@gmail.com District Trearurer, Madalyn Sprague bobandmadalyns@myfairpoint.net NH CHAPTER G STAFF Chapter Director, Mike Vaillancourt gwrra.nh-g@comcast.net Assistant Chapter Director, Carole Sheehan carolesheehan.gwrra.nh.g@gmail.com Chapter Treasurer, Beryl Reid bobnberyl@metrocast.net Membership Enhancement Coordinators Meri & Lee Hirtle msgtlee@metrocast.net Chapter Store Keepers, Bob & Kaye Hamel rhamel2@myfairpoint.net Chapter Educator, Bob Reid bobnberyl@metrocast.net Chapter Ride Coordinator, John Sheehan sheehanwoodworking@yahoo.com Chapter Photographer, Bob Reid bobnberyl@metrocast.net Chapter Trainer, Please Volunteer Chapter G Goodwill Ambassador, Charles Collins Chapter Activities Coordinator, Please Volunteer 2016 Chapter Couple of the Year, Carole & John Sheehan carolesheehan.gwrra.nh.g@gmail.com Newsletter Editor, Carol Cloutier info@brooksidestudionh.com Website Coordinator, Mike Vaillancourt gwrra.nh-g@comcast.net NEW HAMPSHIRE CHAPTER DIRECTORS A Concord/Manchester... David & Bonnie Bolster gwrra.nh.a@gmail.com G Laconia/Lakes Region... Mike Vaillancourt gwrra.nh-g@comcast.net E- Keene/Monadnock Region... Ron & Suzie Black darkcat1@myfairpoint.com

3 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 3 From the Assistant Chapter Director The goal of GWRRA is to increase membership no matter what bike you ride so GWRRA is pleased to announce that Membership Rates are now the same for Gold Wing or Valkyrie motorcycle owners and NON Gold Wing or Valkyrie owners. GWRRA Membership Programs: Individual Membership / Associate Individual Membership: For individual Members only, this membership is for the person who owns a Gold Wing or Valkyrie motorcycle AND For those individuals who wish to take advantage of GWRRA and its benefits and do not own a Gold Wing or Valkyrie. Annual Membership Fees: $45 for one year $85 for two years $120 for three years Family Membership / Associate Family Membership: For families with two or more people in the same household who own a Gold Wing or Valkyrie motorcycle AND For families with two or more people in the household who wish to take advantage of GWRRA and its benefits and do not own a Gold Wing or Valkyrie. Annual Membership Fees: $55 for one year $105 for two years $150 for three years Life Membership: $20 per year for Individuals who have been a GWRRA member for twenty consecutive years. Subscription Only: The subscriber receives 12 issues of Wing World magazine for $40 per year. Business Membership: Available with three levels of membership options with publication in Wing World: Level 1 business name and website link in black - $250 a year; Level 2 business name, logo and website link in black - $350 a year Level 3 business name, logo, website link and a full-color ad - $500 a year As a Business Member you also receive: GWRRA Business Logo for use in your advertising and marketing Biannual listing in Wing World magazine Signage at Wing Ding Certificate to exhibit in your place of business Listing in the Gold Book 12-month subscription to Wing World magazine. Visit Gold Book Update Information: To update your Gold Book Selections, once you ve logged in, click on Manage My Record, and then select Modify My Record from the drop-down menu. 3rd Party Opt Out: To opt out of 3rd Party communications: Log in; Click on Manage My Record in the left menu; Select Modify My Record from the drop-down menu. Click the Yes option next to Exclude me from 3rd Party /Mailings and save your record. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Customer Service at customerservice@gwrra.org or call at your convenience. Carole Sheehan Assistant NH-G Chapter Director

4 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 4 From the Ride Coordinator Bowling Event was Great Those that had time to spare joined us for a great night of bowling followed by dinner! We were unable to reserve the lanes in advance but a quick prayer to the Goldwing God and we only had to wait about 10 minutes for two 10-pin lanes. We also snagged a candlepin lane but by that time we had started our games and gave the lane to the next in line. In attendance were: Kathy & Bob Bielawa, Kaye & Bob Hamel, Donna & Ernie Brown, John & Carole Sheehan and their friend and hopefully future member Dale Bickford, Mike Vaillancourt, Ed Heath and Ron & Susie Black from NH-E. Achievements included: Low Score: Susie Black but as she has never bowled 10 pin she did amazing. High Score: Bob Bielawa High Team Score: Went to the Ladies Kathy, Kaye, Susie and Carole Most Improved: Ed Heath who hasn t bowled in 25 years and then blew us all away with all his strikes and spares. Dinner was at the 405 Pub & Grill. We gave them a quick call to get a table for 11 and they were really accommodating. Everyone seemed to enjoy his or her meal as only Susie took home a doggie bag. Mark your calendars and join us for our next bowling event scheduled for Saturday, March 26 th. the August Chapter Weekend and will have that info out to you soon. In the meantime please make sure you have the following events on your calendars. March Sunday, March 13 th Monthly Meeting Greenside Restaurant (Lochmere Golf Course) 8 AM Breakfast / 9 AM Meeting Saturday, March 26 th - 6:00 PM Bowling & Dine Out at Fun Spot, Weir s Beach 579 Endicott Street North, Laconia, NH Open to all chapters, friends and family. Please call or carolesheehan. gwrra.nh.g@gmail.com let us know if you are planning on attending that would be great and ensure we have enough lanes reserved. Choose 10 Pin or Candle Pin Followed by dinner in their restaurant FUNSPOT S BOWLING RATES: 1 String $ Shoe Rental $2.50 John Sheehan Chapter NH-G Ride Coordinator 2016 Meeting Schedule By now I hope that everyone has had the opportunity to review the 2016 ride schedule and mark your calendars for our winter events and summer ride schedule. If you have any suggestions for the rides that TBD please share them with me. We are still finalizing the details for

5 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 5 Rewind 16 in Attendance for February Gathering 50/50 was $13 Bowling will remain on Saturday nights and move time to 6pm Sunshine Cards - Kaye Hamel volunteered to send these out if we provide her the info (illness, death etc) Discussed Recall on brakes and H&K providing free pick-up/delivery within 15 miles. Try to get done now before everyone starts scheduling their bikes to get them ready for the riding season. NE Rally (July 16) - NH-G has committed to leading a ride to Waterbury VT, Ben & Jerry s NH-G Weekend Away (August 16) to Rutland, VT. o Finalizing the Saturday dinner and Sunday Breakfast and then registration forms will be sent out. o Hotel info will be published in April newsletter. o Ride will be the Green Mountain Gap Additional Chapter Ride Ideas: o Participate in parades...i.e. 4th July o Laconia Bike Week - drive and park a bunch of our bikes down, wear our chapter clothing and talk up GWRRA and distribute literature, membership forms. o Laconia Pumpkin Festival - get a booth to promote GWRRA, NH-G and motorcycle awareness. Carole has an out to the Laconia Chamber of Commerce to try to get the info as nothing for 2016 has been posted yet. o Try to obtain owner listings for Goldwing Owners in our Zip Code area and if we can get it create a membership drive mailing to recruit new members. Sold Region B raffle tickets (based on the Pennsylvania lottery) Carole Sheehan Chapter NH-G Assistant Chapter Director

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8 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 8 Welcome to GWRRA Rider Education Bob Reid Chapter G Educator Good People Do Dumb Things Hello fellow Wingnuts! We are one month closer to riding season. In fact, today it s 50+ degrees and I bet some of our members (I won t mention any names) went for a ride. I don t know about you but I have a lot of friends that don t ride bikes but their driving skills leave a lot to be desired in relationship to being thoughtful of other drivers, cars or bikes. When we are riding around our home turf we still can t let our guard down and get too comfortable and we should always use all our frequently talked about practice skills. In order to help with this I m trying to put together a parking lot day so we can practice and hone our skills so they are second nature to us. This will help us when we find ourselves in a situation where we need to react quickly. I know I find myself getting too comfortable riding around home and thinking that I know most of these good people but then I think, they don t have any idea what it takes to make an 800 pound bike be safe on the road. With this in mind, let s not get complacent in our riding and also our training to keep ourselves and our co-riders safe. When I find a venue that s suitable and a qualified instructor, please make sure to take advantage of the opportunity to practice these skills before you really need them. The requirement for the venue is a large parking lot with no obstructions like islands or light fixtures. If anyone knows of such a place in the area please let me know and I will contact them to see if we can use it. We have a busy riding schedule planned thanks to John so let s do our best to participate in everything we possibly can & be the safest we can possibly be. Be Safe, Bob

9 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 9 Birthdays & Anniversaries Happy Birthday and Anniversary to all those listed below Chapter G Wishes You All The Best! Remember, We can t post your Birthdays and Anniversaries if we don t know the dates. Let us know. March 6 March 7 March 19 March 28 Phil Allard John Seehan Bob Sprague Bruce Hartley $5.00

10 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 10 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings 2016 Ride Schedule (Updated ) March NH-G Gathering at the Greenside Restaurant, 360 Laconia Road, Tilton, N.H. Breakfast 8 AM. Meeting at 9AM Bowling and Dine-Out at Fun Spot, Weirs Beach, 579 Endicott St. North, Laconia, N.H. at 5PM. 1 String $4.00. Shoe Rentals $ April NH-G Gathering at the Greenside Restaurant, 360 Laconia Road, Tilton, N.H. Breakfast at 8AM. Meeting at 9AM. Weather permitting, we will have the Annual Ice Out Ride around Lake Winnipesaukee and an ice cream stop in Wolfeboro. Ride led by NH-G Chapter Director Mike Vaillancourt New N.H. GWRRA Chapter Kickoff. Depot Honda, 50 Lafayette Road, Rye, N.H Watch for further updates by ed Event Alerts Rhode Island Chapter B Spring Kick-Off Breakfast at Corinnes, 1593 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket, RI Must Pre-register. $15.00 per person. Cutoff for registrations is April 18, See flyer and registration form later on in this newsletter, or on the NH-G website at Chapter NH-E Motorcycle Swap Yard Sale at Ron & Suzie Black s, 6 Tyler Hill Road, Jaffery, N.H May NH-G Gathering at the Greenside Restaurant, 360 Laconia Road, Tilton, N.H. Breakfast at 8AM. Meeting at 9AM. Ride to be determined GWRRA NH-G/NH-A/NH-E Garage Day at Mike Vaillancourt s house, 161 Shaker Road, Canterbury, N.H Bring your oil and filter as well as an empty gallon jug for oil collection. T-CLOCK inspections can be done and two lifts on site. NH-G will provide coffee and donuts in the morning and a make your own sandwich lunch bar around noon Chapter NH-G Monthly Dine Out at 6PM. Location to be determined. Meet There Ride: 23 rd Annual Celebration of Lupines. Meet at Dunkin Donuts, Laconia Road Tilton at 8AM. KSU at 8:30 AM. Late breakfast/lunch at Polly s Pancake Parlor, Rte 117, Sugar Hill, N.H. At Sugar Hill, enjoy many of the free or low cost activities: Free Lupine and Poetry Walk through the Field of the Lupines at The Sugar Hill Sampler, Sunset Hill Rd., Free admission to Sugar Hill Historical Museum, Free admission to Franconia Heritage Museum (553 Main St.) tracing the history of schools in Easton, Franconia, and Sugar Hill, featuring a one room school. Ride Leaders to be determined.

11 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 11 6/7-11/2016 Americade, Lake George, NY Day Trip to Americade. Meet at Dunkin Donuts, Laconia Road, Tilton at 7:45 AM. KSU at 8AM. Join Mike Vaillancourt as he leads you to Lake George. Arrive about 12:30. Check out the Vendor show. Re-gather at 3:45. KSU at 4PM. Back in Tilton by 8PM. This is an all day event but you will be back before dark. Ride led by NH-G Chapter Director Mike Vaillancourt June Monthly NH-G Gathering at the Greenside Restaurant, 360 Laconia Road, Tilton, N.H. Breakfast at 8 AM. Meeting at 9 AM. Ride to NH Seacoast. Stop at Deerfield Leather. Pit stop at the Sheehan s beach house for a bio break. Continue on the Seacoast to Portsmouth, NH. Lunch at Newicks, Newington. Ride on later for an ice cream stop on the way back to the Lakes Region. Led by Ride Coordinator, John Sheehan NH-G Monthly Dine-Out at the Granite Steak & Grille, 11 Farmington Road (Rt. 11), Rochester, N.H. 6 PM. Ride afterwards for ice cream to Johnsons in New Durham. Meet There Ride: Bennington, VT. Mount Equinox Skyline Drive. Optional: Meet for breakfast at the Tilton Diner, 7 AM. Afterwards, line up at the Tilton Dunkin Donuts at 8 AM. KSU at 8:30 AM. Skyline Drive is a private toll road. Fee is $12.00 per bike. We can take a picnic lunch or eat at the Madison Brewing Co., 428 Main St., Bennington, VT and then stop in Hillsboro at the High Tide for ice cream on the way back. Led by Chapter Ride Coordinator John Sheehan July Monthly NH-G Gathering at the Greenside Restaurant, 360 Laconia Road, Tilton, N.H. Breakfast at 8 AM. Meeting at 9 AM. Ride to be determined. 7/21-24/2016 New England States Rally, Lebanon, N.H. Registration Required NH-G Monthly Dine-Out. 6 PM. Location to be determined. Meet There August Monthly NH-G Gathering at the Greenside Restaurant, 360 Laconia Road, Tilton, N.H. Breakfast at 8 AM. Meeting at 9 AM. Ride following to be determined. 8/12-14/2016 Chapter NH-G Weekend Get-Away. Rutland, VT. Open to all GWRRA Chapters. Hotel: Mendon Mountain View Lodge. Rates: $60.00 per night. Optional full breakfast to $10.00 per person per day. Ride led by Chapter Ride Coordinator John Sheehan NH-G Monthly Dine-Out. 405 Pub, Laconia NH followed by ice cream at the Happy Cow next door. Meet There Ride: Bridge of Flowers, Shelburne, MA. Meet at the Tilton Dunkin Donuts at 8:30 AM. KSU at 9 AM. Ride led by Chapter Ride Coordinator John Sheehan. 9/1-4/2016 Wing Ding, Billings Montana.

12 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page September NH-G Gathering at the Greenside Restaurant, 360 Laconia Road, Tilton, N.H. Ride following to York Maine to Kaye Hamel s Brothers Restaurant for some killer lobster rolls. Ride led by Bob Hamel. 9/15-17/2016 GWRRA VT-A Wells Ogunquit Weekend Foliage Ride and Dine-Out through Eastern N.H. Optional: Meet at the Tilton Diner for breakfast at 7 AM. Line up at Dunkin Donuts at 8AM. KSU at 8:30 AM. Ride to Lincoln, N.H. to board the Hobo Railroad. $16.00 per person. Enjoy an 80 minute round trip train excursion through a woodsy setting along the banks of the Pemi River. Train departs Hobo Jct. station at 64 Railroad Street, Lincoln N.H. We can enjoy a Hobo picnic lunch onboard or have lunch at the Woodstock Inn around the corner after the train ride. Ride led by Chapter G ride coordinator John Sheehan Fryeburg Fair Ride (Runs 10/2-9). Meet at Tilton Dunkin Donuts at 8:00 AM. KSU at 8:30 AM. Pickup group at Citgo station on the Alton Traffic Circle at 9:30 AM. KSU at 10:00 AM. Pick up last group at Morrissey s Front Porch in Wolfeboro at 10:30 Am. KSU at 10:45 AM. Arrive at the fair around noon. Enjoy the food and activities. Regroup at 4 PM with KSU at 5:30. Ride leader to be determined October NH-G Gathering at the Greenside Restaurant, 360 Laconia Road, Tilton, N.H. Kangamangas Foliage Ride following with lunch at the Yankee Smoke House, Ossipee and Ice Cream at Morrissey s Front Porch in Wolfeboro. DRESS WARM!! Ride led by Chapter Ride Coordinator John Sheehan. 10-??-2016 NH-A/NH-G/NH-E Holiday Season Kick-Off Get Together Pot Luck at TBD. 6 PM till whenever November NH-G Gathering at the Greenside Restaurant, 360 Laconia Road, Tilton, N.H. Ride following, weather permitting. Destination TBD Chapter NH-G Annual Holiday Dinner at the Greenside Restaurant, 360 Laconia Road, Tilton, N.H. Social hour 6-7. Dinner at 7 PM. Announcement of the 2017 Chapter NH-G Couple of the year. More to follow. KSU=Kick Stands Up

13 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 13 N.17 T-CLOCS Inspection GOLD WING ROAD RIDERS ASSOCIATION RIDER EDUCATION PROGRAM Motorcycle T- CLOCS Inspection T-CLOCS ITEM WHAT TO CHECK WHAT TO LOOK FOR CHECKOFF T --- TIRES & WHEELS Tires Condition Tread depth, wear, weathering, evenly seated, bulges, embedded objects. Front Rear Air Pressure Check when cold, adjust to load/speed Front Rear Spokes Bent, broken, missing, tension, check at top of wheel "ring" OK -- "thud", loose spoke Front Rear Cast Cracks, dents Front Rear Wheels Rims Out of round/true = 5 mm. Spin wheel, index against stationary pointer. Front Rear C --- CONTROLS Bearings Seals Grab top and bottom of tire and flex: No free play (click) between hub and axle, no growl when spinning. Front Rear Cracked, cut or torn, excessive grease on outside, reddish-brown around outside. Front Rear Levers Condition Broken, bent, cracked, mounts tight, ball ends on handlebar lever. Front Rear Pivots Lubricated Cables Hoses Condition Routing Condition Routing Fraying, kinks, lubrication: ends and length. No interference or pulling at steering head, suspension, no sharp angles, wire looms in place. Cuts, cracks, leaks, bulges, chaffing, deterioration. No interference or pulling at steering head, suspension, no sharp angles, wire looms in place. Throttle Operation Moves freely, snaps closed, no revving. L --- LIGHTS Battery Condition Vent Tube Terminals clean and tight, electrolyte level, held down securely. Not kinked, routed properly, not plugged. Lenses Condition Cracked, broken secure, mounted, excessive condensation Reflectors Condition Cracked, broken securely mounted. Wiring Headlamp Condition Routing Condition Aim Fraying, chaffing, insulation. Pinched, no interference or pulling at steering head or suspension, wire looms and ties in place, connectors tight, clean. Cracks, reflector, mounting and adjustment system. Height and right/left. GWRRA Motorcycle T_CLOCS Inspection Version 2001_06 June 2011

14 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 14 N.18 Trike Check GOLD WING ROAD RIDERS ASSOCIATION RIDER EDUCATION PROGRAM TRIKE CHECK Tires Front Rear Condition Air Pressure Controls Throttle Levers Cables Hoses Lights Battery Lenses Headlamp Oils Engine Coolant Fuel Leaks Chassis Forks Shock(s) Steering-Head Tread depth, wear, dry rotting, bulges, and foreign objects Check when cold, adjust to load and speed Operation, moves freely, snaps closed, no revving None bent, broken. Ball on end of lever No interference, fraying or kinks No cuts, cracks, bulges Terminals clean, tight, electrolyte level, vent tube & charge No cracks or excessive condensation, securely mounted Bulb works, aimed correctly, not loose in mounting Check warm, is it the minimum, the maximum Reservoir and recovery tank at correct level Tank full ready to ride, Check gage or tank Check for oil, fuel, coolant or rear-end leaks Check air pressure, check for leaks, is travel free Check air pressure, pre-load springs and free travel Check for tight spots and play by pushing/pulling forks I have performed the above safety check. To my knowledge my Trike is ready for safe range operation. I certify the above statements are true and correct. Print Name Year and Type of Trike Signature Date GWRRA Trike and Trike Trailer Rider Course Check Version 2001_06 June 2011

15 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 15 One hundred years after Einstein came out with his Theory of Relativity, scientists have now proved him right regarding time and light. As you read this article waves of gravitational stuff are cruising all around you and through you. Also these waves distort time in dimension by bending light and sound waves. And I thought daylight savings time was weird! Anyhow, that must be why time flies and I find out I need to get my article completed when it seems I submitted one last week! Yes, time does fly as Einstein postulated, speeding up within the context of space/time theory. Now my brain hurts thinking about all this Relativity stuff. However, it is time once again for the annual spring reminder which has no relationship to Miller time, or Relativity, I think. Did Einstein mention that? Regardless, spring is just around the corner it appears. The Prairie Dogs saw their shadows a while back ago, but I don t know what harbinger that brings to the equation other than it is getting warmer and the snow is disappearing. Past history tells me that we are bound to have another snow episode or two in the next couple months, but we will shovel out that snow if and when it happens. Onward to the article! Did you actually do all those checks I reminded you about earlier in the fall/ winter? If anyone procrastinated until spring to get their motorcycle to their friendly dealer they may be surprised to find themselves umpteenth in line wondering just when all the needed work can get completed. Spring is going to be a busy time at dealerships when everyone brings in their motorcycle needing whatever, and done yesterday. Not going to happen folks! Time is of the essence in more ways than one! However, do not despair as there are some tasks we the semi-skilled and unskilled can accomplish by ourselves before taking it to the dealership. Let s start Guest GWRRA Rider Education TIME by Ace (Howie) Peterson Guest Educator CO-Q at the front of the motorcycle, with the front tire. If a two-wheeler, place motorcycle on center stand, if a three wheeler move the machine around to check the tread, ALL the tread. Are there any pieces of rubber missing, deep cracks in the rubber, or foreign objects protruding? One item rarely checked is the valve stem, wiggle it around, and put water on it to see if it is leaking air. These should be replaced each tire change regardless as far as I am concerned. Saves issues down the road, pun intended. While in this location look at the brake pads for pad thickness, if questionable these will of course need checked with the wheel off. Look inside the fan area, any thing missing or broke? Progress to lights, are they all working, or any cracked? Turn signals blink? High and low beams working properly? How about the windshield, is it so scratched it is difficult to see out of especially heading into the sun? Are the windshield wipers in good shape? Joke folks just to see if you are paying attention. Now start on either side removing the side covers, and along about here do a complete check under the motorcycle unit for leaks, hanging wires, loose things and items that should not be there but picked up along the road somewhere. About right here stand up, open the area for the radiator, check the cap seals, and fluid level. When was the last time the coolant was changed out? Check sparkplug wires for cracks, and in place; brake reservoir for adequate fluid; is the fluid color mostly clear or looks like dirty dish water; if so it needs replaced. Now I am working with a Goldwing herein on the right hand side of the motorcycle just for example. Other units may have the items mentioned in different locations. Regardless, these are items to be checked out before starting out for the season s rides. Of course it helps to check the security of any add on items as you go for bolt tightness etc. At the rear, again using a two-wheeler, tires as with the front, and if possible brake pads. If the motorcycle

16 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 16 has a trailer hitch installed, check bolt security. Now check the rear lights, brake, running, and tail lights for function. Progress up the side of the motorcycle repeating checks as on the previous side with special attention paid to the battery (replaced when) and wiring looms. Another frequently missed item is the coolant overflow container. This is checked with the engine warmed to operating temperature, and if needed add coolant in the container to the proper level. Back up on top check brake and throttle cables for proper tension, and then the fluids. What color? It is recommended these be changed approximately every two years given mileage ridden. CB working? Radio, etc. including GPS if included. Seat warmer working if included? Depending on the rear shock system (front on some three wheelers) check the air pressure to be working, or if hydraulic run it through settings. The purpose of all this checking which takes some of your time (what else have you to do on cold days) spent now will reduce the time needed at the dealership. Make a list as you go of items that may need to be worked on by your friendly professional when you take it in for spring oil changes, etc. Regardless of what Einstein may have to say about Relativity, your time spent on this chore will be relative to the time you spend either in the dealership, or perhaps waiting alongside the highway awaiting the tow truck. Of course, stuff happens, but by doing your part, spending relative time, the odds of that happening decrease in proportion. Obviously there are items I have not mentioned you the reader may think about checking, but at least this article gives a starting point to be ready when riding season starts. Actually for me, doing all these checks is therapeutic and enjoyable; or maybe it is just a love affair with all things motorcycling. Notice the highlighted words? It is time! And as always, RIDE WITH PRIDE AND CONFIDENCE! Due to popular demand, WING DING 38 has been moved back by one day to a Wednesday through Saturday pattern! The NEW DATES are AUGUST 31 - SEPTEMBER 3, We appreciate all the feedback and hope this makes for more convenient travel time. We look forward to seeing you in Billings! Be sure to visit our website for info on how to book your room and to get registered for the event! You won't want to miss this great event in BIG SKY COUNTRY! WING DING 38

17 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 17 Until the Chapter gets a Motorist Awareness Coordinator, Nick Hoppner from the Colorado District, will graciously provide us with MAD articles. Editor Bumper Cars By Nick Hoppner In the January 2016 issue of American Motorcyclist magazine, a reader s letter caught my eye. The letter was written by a Tom Haykin of Pittsburgh who describes himself as a motorcyclist and a bicycle commuter who was hit by a distracted driver in May. Haykin s letter argues against expanding the legality of motorcycle lane splitting to states other than Southern California. More important to this reader, however, was Mr. Haykin s bumper cars concept as presented in his second paragraph especially as it applies to freeway driving: My theory behind the common refrain, I didn t see you, is based on observations of many drivers. Most drivers simply follow the bumper in front of them. They do not make decisions on their own about speed, following distance, use of turn signals, etc. They simply glance up from their personal devices for a second or two out of every five or ten to make sure there is a bumper in front of them. Things like motorcycles and bicycles are unrecognizable and do not register. The only valid input received is a bumper. Further, I am referring to the forward view. I suppose that most drivers pay significantly less attention to the rear view. Couple this lack of attention with inability to control the vehicle, evidenced by the proliferation of collision avoidance and lane departure avoidance systems, and I conclude that lane splitting is an extremely dangerous practice. I find Mr. Haykin s observations to be simplistic, but essentially correct. Follow the Leader seems to be the universal behavior whenever two or three vehicles form up into a column. Typically, most drivers assume the current speed of the lead vehicle in a column, whether it be the posted limit or significantly faster. Depending on the environment, most vehicles follow at about one car s length distance (usually to dissuade other vehicles from leap-frogging ahead of them). Often the results are a NASCAR-like column of vehicles drafting each other at beyond-legal speeds until a state patrol car appears on the shoulder of the highway and/or the lead vehicle s radar detector goes off. Not long after assuming their position in one of these bumper-following pods of vehicles, most drivers slip into a semi-mesmerized state of inattention. As the miles roll on, less and less attentiveness to the task of safe driving occurs while more and more attention is devoted to personal devices (cell phones, GPS features, sound system settings, etc.). None of this seems particularly remarkable until all hell breaks loose. A dog runs out onto the highway. A ladder slides off a pickup truck. A car tire blows, sending the vehicle skidding, with sparks flying every which way. A bank of fog or a sudden squall of rain, snow, or hail diminishes visibility. Suddenly all bets are off. Brake lights come on, cars swerve and slide sideways. Insurance rates go up and ambulances roll. Like as not, the heretofore reassuring presence of the rear bumper one car s length ahead has now become part of your own front bumper. My point in all of this is to benefit from Mr. Haykin s observation and remind the motorists we talk to about Motorist Awareness to recognize the dangers of bumper car driving. Remind yourself that if you re close enough to read a bumper sticker on the Ford ahead of you, you cannot see an obstacle on the pavement just ahead of the Ford. If you relinquish control of your vehicle just because others are driving like two-ton lemmings, you may be taking too great a chance. Perhaps it s time to get off that highway and find the road less traveled homeward.

18 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 18 Kawasaki Celebrating Our PARTS SALES SERVICE LACONIA HOOKSETT WHERE SERVICE MAKES THE DIFFERENCE 15% OFF A GOLDWING FULL SERVICE OFFER GOOD FROM APRIL 1st- AUG 31st, THIS OFFER CAN T BE COMBNED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. WINGS OLDER THAN 1999 DO NOT QUALIFY. APPT BASED ON AVAILABILITY. 15% OFF TIRES WHEN WE INSTALL OFFER GOOD FROM APRIL 1st- AUG 31st, THIS OFFER CAN T BE COMBNED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. WINGS OLDER THAN 1999 DO NOT QUALIFY. APPT BASED ON AVAILABILITY.

19 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page Maine GWRRA Chapter C END OF WINTER BASH Friday April 1 Sunday April 3 Location: Green Granite Inn 1515 White Mountain Hwy North Conway, NH A weekend to relax and have FUN. A $5.00 fee to be collected on site, will allow you into the gathering hour, ice cream social, seminars and FUN/MOVIE NIGHT. We will have dinner Saturday night and return to the Green Granite to have ice cream and have fun. Call to book a room before 15 March for $79.95 room rate, mention Gold Wing Riders Association to get special rate, there are no elevators, so book your first floor rooms soon. You will need to bring a $5.00 item for the Yankee Swap. Come join us for a weekend of FUN and camaraderie.

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22 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page Airport Road West Lebanon, NH Room Rates: $104 (double occupancy) + tax/night price includes breakfast BOOK NOW AND SAVE, PRICE GOES UP TO $159-$179 + TAX -- May 15 th, 2016 Mention Gold Wing Road Riders or GWRRA **there are no elevators if a member can t climb stairs, please book early and request 1 st floor All American softball game Dunk the director tank Training Seminars Friday night meal Friday night ice cream social Friday night Light Parade Saturday night plated banquet Scenic Self Guided Rides Scenic Guided Rides 50/50 & Chinese Raffle Fireworks..and much much more!!! FULL RALLY REGISTRATION INCLUDES Friday Night Ice Cream Social with Music Friday Night Light Parade - Classroom Seminars Access to Vendors Awards Self and Guided Tours Rally Bars 50/50 Drawings Banquet Saturday Night (first 400 pre-registrations) and much, much MORE! ONE DAY RALLY PASS for $10.00 INCLUDES All events for that day up until 5 PM & the ice cream social (Friday night only) For Additional Rally Information, Please Contact: NH/VT District Director Ed Heath (603) nhg-gwrr nhg-gwrra@hotmail.com or check us out -- *all information subject to change

23 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 23 July 21-23, 2016 LIABILITY RELEASE: I/we have read and understand this application. I/we hereby agree to conform and comply with the ideals governing this rally and agree to hold harmless GWRRA, co-sponsoring organizations, and any property owners for any loss or injury to self or property in which I/we may become involved by reason of participation in this rally. I/we also agree to assume responsibility for any property which I/we knowingly damage. Rider Signature: Date: Rider Name (print): Age (optional) GWRRA# Exp. Date: Address City State Zip (required) Phone# District & Chapter Position Co-Rider Signature: Date: Co-Rider Name (print): Age (optional) GWRRA# Exp. Date: Co-Rider Phone# District & Chapter Position Direct Mileage to Rally (Motorcycle Ridden) Registration Information Rally Registrations: Number of Full Registrations GWRRA ($55) Life Member ($50) Non-GWRRA ($65) Child ($30) *Includes Saturday Banquet Total for Reg. $ Optional Friday: Italian Pasta Feast Number of registrations ($20.00/pp) Total Number Total for feast $ Rally Shirts: Number of S/M/L/XL $23 = 2X & 3X $25 = *Shirts are short sleeve polo s add l products TBD Total for Shirts $ TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED $ Cancellations in writing will be accepted if postmarked by July 5, 2015 is subject to $5.00 handling fee. No other method of cancellation will be accepted. *all information subject to change Checks made out to: New England Districts Rally Please Mail to: FOR OFFICE USE ONLY 8 Bassy Street Lebanon, N.H # Amount: $ Date Rec d Form Rev: 06/26/2014

24 GWRRA Chapter NH-G The Lakes Region Wings Newsletter Page 24 Think about advertising! We would love to have your business card HERE