Carolina Biker News April 2008

Bubba Blackwell, The American Daredevil
By:  Matt Estepp

In September, Bubba Blackwell came to Harley-Davidson of Greenville to perform a cool stunt show.  Bubba did tricks on several different bikes including a Harley-Davidson Screaming Eagle Ultra Glide and a V-Rod.  The Screaming Eagle Ultra Glide was donated to Bubba from the Harley-Davidson Motor Company to use in his stunt shows.  He said it was his favorite bike.  Can you imagine doing a wheelie on a bagger?  Well, he did just that.  The pipes may need to be replaced.  During the show he jumped over some very scared volunteers.  Luckily, he didn’t kill anyone.  What kind of person would volunteer for that?  Bubba even wrote his name on the pavement while doing a burnout.

Bubba will not perform unless the crowd cheers him on.  Who would not want to cheer for Bubba?  There is not a dull moment and you never know what he will do or say next.  He’s always cracking jokes while riding.  After each performance he signs autographs and poses for pictures.  I waited in line for an autograph and got to talk to him for a while.  He asked if I wanted a picture of me on his V-Rod.  That day being last in line worked out for the best.  Not many people offer to let you sit on their bike.  Bubba is a great performer and doesn’t mind taking the time to talk with his fans.  He told me about his family.  You could see the pride in his eyes when he talked about his daughter.  It is possible he passed on the daredevil gene.  It could be a while yet, but you may see her riding next to him in his show one day.

You’ll have chance to see Bubba at the National Hog Rally in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, August 28, 2008.  I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.

Carolina Biker News April 2008

STUFF HAPPENS
By Chris Pallone
“While waving to the crowd after finishing fourth in the 500cc US Motorcycle Championship in 1989, Kevin Magee fell off his machine and broke his leg.”

While reminiscing about last year’s motoring, I realized we were pretty lucky that nothing serious happened on any of our rides.  My husband and I logged 10,000 miles during my first year of what I consider “real riding”.  Not just around town or hour long jaunts that I had become comfortable with, but hundreds of miles accumulated across states and different terrain that challenged my newly developing skills.

One incident stands out in my mind.  We were traveling through Ontario, Canada along the lake shore on our way around Lake Huron by way of the Georgian Bay.  It was September and the rain insisted on dampening our ride, wetting the roads we selected.  I remember following traffic in a small city when an opening of buildings on the left gave way to a beautiful view of the bay, with die-hard boaters braving the mists, and the sun peeking out every now and then. 

Unbeknownst to me, the traffic light changed just as I was remarking to myself about the view.  With my head turned for a split second, the little red car in front of me decided to stop since that’s what you’re supposed to do at a red light!  Well, I found quickly that motorcycles and wet pavement don’t mix!  I remember hitting my foot brake and realizing that wasn’t going to stop me as I slid!  I released it and (as I had learned in my safety class, imagine that!) squeezed the clutch and front brake, tromped on the foot brake and downshifted, stopping within inches of the rear bumper, after sliding quite a few feet in that “controlled slide!”   Whew!  That was close! 

My husband viewed all of this since he was riding just behind me.  He, of course, wasn’t sight seeing; he was watching traffic.  He just knew I was going to run into the car and made adjustments for his own safety.  Luckily, I kept the bike upright and didn’t become part of the car or pavement!  He soundly (!) reminded me to keep my eyes on the road and not the scenery, and banished me to the back, figuring he would lead the rest of the way!  Of course, I felt bad because I could have caused a serious accident and injured myself or someone else.  I only looked away for a second!  But, it only takes a second to create disaster. 

That day I realized operating a motorcycle is a huge responsibility that requires your full attention and split second decisions.  I commend those who have ridden accident-free for years.  Experience is a hard teacher.  The trick is to learn from the mistakes made.  And it is easier learning from other’s mistakes instead of making them all yourself.

Stuff happens…don’t let it happen to you!
Ride safe…ride often!

Carolina Biker News April 2008

Christian Motorcyclists Association Seasons of Refreshing 2008   
By Valet

Hello everyone, my wife Sharon and I have just returned from the CMA Seasons of Refreshing 2008. We’re members of the Light Brigade Chapter #95 in Columbia.  Come see us sometime!

There was a great turnout with over 200 CMA’ers representing all South Carolina chapters.  The event was held in Branchville (I didn’t know where it was either).  It was held at Branchville Christian Church, a beautiful church with great windows.   

The teaching by Gary and Vicky Wadding, great music and the fellowship of CMA was just what I needed to recharge my batteries to go out and serve God this year.  If you were there, you know what I mean.  Imagine your favorite Sunday school class, now think of it as that same class on steroids.  Ok, you get the picture.  200+ loving Christian bikers ready to listen, pray and honestly give a care!

The weather was not the best for a motorcycle event but there were still more than 25 bikes in the parking lot.  The afternoon was beautiful so those who rode had great weather for the ride home.
Interested in CMA.  You can find a chapter in your area by visiting www.cmausa.org or email me and I’ll help find one you can contact.  Feel free to e-mail me if you need info on anything.  We’re here if you need us.

Until next time.  It don’t matter what you ride, it’s who you ride with.  I’m riding for Jesus! How about you?
Valet
email: twowheeldetails@aol.com